bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecotin-Like ISP ofL. majorPromastigotes Fine-Tunes Macrophage Phagocytosis by Limiting the Pericellular Release of Bradykinin from Surface-Bound Kininogens: A Survival Strategy Based on the Silencing of Proinflammatory G-Protein Coupled Kinin B2and B1Receptors
Authors: Svensjö Erik , Nogueira de Almeida Larissa , Vellasco Lucas , Juliano Luiz , Scharfstein Julio
Published: September 2014

Inhibitors of serine peptidases (ISPs) expressed byLeishmania majorenhance intracellular parasitism in macrophages by targeting neutrophil elastase (NE), a serine protease that couples phagocytosis to the prooxidative TLR4/PKR pathway. Here we investigated the functional interplay between ISP-expressingL. majorand the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS). Enzymatic assays showed that NE inhibitor or recombinant ISP-2 inhibited KKS activation in human plasma activated by dextran sulfate. Intravital microscopy in the hamster cheek pouch showed that topically appliedL. majorpromastigotes (WT andΔisp2/3mutants) potently induced plasma leakage through the activation of bradykinin B2receptors (B2R). Next, using mAbs against kininogen domains, we showed that these BK-precursor proteins are sequestered byL. majorpromastigotes, being expressed at higher % in theΔisp2/3mutant population. Strikingly, analysis of the role of kinin pathway in the phagocytic uptake ofL. majorrevealed that antagonists of B2R or B1R reversed the upregulated uptake ofΔisp2/3mutants without inhibiting macrophage internalization of WTL. major. Collectively, our results suggest thatL. majorISP-2 fine-tunes macrophage phagocytosis by inhibiting the pericellular release of proinflammatory kinins from surface bound kininogens. Ongoing studies should clarify whetherL. majorISP-2 subverts TLR4/PKR-dependent prooxidative responses of macrophages by preventing activation of G-protein coupled B2R/B1R.
Sintering and Hardness Behavior of Fe-Al2O3 Metal Matrix Nanocomposites Prepared by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Gupta Pallav , Kumar Devendra , Parkash Om , Jha A. K.
Published: September 2014

The present paper reports the investigations on sintering and hardness behavior of Fe-Al2O3 Metal Matrix Nanocomposites (MMNCs) prepared by Powder Metallurgy (P/M) route with varying concentration of Al2O3 (5–30 wt%). The MMNC specimens for the present investigations were synthesized by ball milling, followed by compaction and sintering in an inert atmosphere in the temperature range of 900–1100°C for 1–3 hours using Powder Metallurgy route. Phase and microstructures of the specimens were characterized by XRD and SEM. Reactive sintering takes place in these materials. During sintering nano iron aluminate (FeAl2O4) phase forms. Characterization was done by measuring density and hardness. Results have been discussed critically to illustrate the effect of various processing parameters on sintering and mechanical behavior. It is expected that the results of these investigations will be useful in developing Metal Matrix Nanocomposites (MMNCs) for typical industrial applications.
Potential Cardiovascular Risk Protection of Bilirubin in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients under Hemodialysis
Authors: Sameiro-Faria Maria do , Kohlova Michaela , Ribeiro Sandra , Rocha-Pereira Petronila , Teixeira Laetitia , Nascimento Henrique , Reis Flávio , Miranda Vasco , Bronze-da-Rocha Elsa , Quintanilha Alexandre , Belo Luís , Costa Elísio , Santos-Silva Alice
Published: September 2014

We evaluated the potential cardiovascular risk protection of bilirubin in hemodialysis (HD) patients. An enlarged set of studies were evaluated in 191 HD patients, including hematological study, lipid profile, iron metabolism, nutritional, inflammatory markers, and dialysis adequacy. The TA duplication screening in the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1 A1 (UGT1A1) promoter region was also performed. TheUGT1A1genotype frequencies in HD patients were 49.2%, 42.4%, and 8.4% for 6/6, 6/7, and 7/7 genotypes, respectively. Although no difference was found inUGT1A1genotype distribution between the three tertiles of bilirubin, significant differences were found with increasing bilirubin levels, namely, a decrease in platelet, leukocyte, and lymphocyte counts, transferrin, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), ox-LDL/low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, apolipoprotein (Apo) A, Apo B, and interleukin-6 serum levels and a significant increased concentration of hemoglobin, hematocrit, erythrocyte count, iron, transferrin saturation, Apo A/Apo B ratio, adiponectin, and paraoxonase 1 serum levels. After adjustment for age these results remained significant. Our data suggest that higher bilirubin levels are associated with beneficial effects in HD patients, by improving lipid profile and reducing the inflammatory grade, which might contribute to increase in iron availability. These results suggest a potential cardiovascular risk protection of bilirubin in HD patients.
Microwave Analysis for Two-Dimensional C-V and Noise Model of AlGaN/GaN MODFET
Authors: Kumar Ramnish , Arya Sandeep K. , Ahlawat Anil
Published: September 2014

A new two-dimensional analytical model for the capacitance-voltage and noise characteristics of a AlGaN/GaN MODFET is developed. The two-dimensional electron gas density is calculated as a function of device dimensions. The model includes the spontaneous and polarization effects. The contribution of various capacitances to the performance of the device is shown. The model further predicts the transconductance, drain conductance, and frequency of operation. A high transconductance of 160 mS/mm and a cut-off frequency of 11.6 GHz are obtained for a device of 50 nm gate length. The effect of gate length on the gate length behaviour of the noise coefficientsP,R, andCis also studied. The effect of parasitic source and gate resistance has also been studied to evaluate the minimum noise figure. The excellent agreement with the previously simulated results confirms the validity of the proposed model to optimize the device performance at high frequencies.
Histochemical Study of the Progenetic TrematodeAlloglossidium renale
Authors: Schimmer Craig A. , Landers Stephen C.
Published: September 2014

A histochemical study of the progenetic trematodeAlloglossidium renalehas demonstrated the absence of any secreted material between the adult worm and the host (freshwater shrimp) antennal gland tubules. Host tissue is affected only by the compression, abrasion, and ingestion by the parasite, and host tubule cells near the worm have the same staining patterns as those distant from the parasite. The trematode sometimes dies within the host, leaving a necrotic mass whose histochemical staining differs significantly from the living organism. In the necrotic mass, the only recognizable features were the ova and the vitellarium, which atrophied and resulted in tyrosine-positive staining within the mass. A melanin reaction was not observed in the host using a specialized ferro-ferricyanide stain. The only apparent host response to infection was a layer of damaged squamous host cells adhering to the necrotic worm. The results confirm benign host-parasite effects and a highly evolved relationship between the host and parasite, perhaps bordering on commensalism.
Antirelapse Efficacy of Various Primaquine Regimens for Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Rajgor D. D. , Gogtay N. J. , Kadam V. S. , Kocharekar M. M. , Parulekar M. S. , Dalvi S. S. , Vaidya A. B. , Kshirsagar N. A.
Published: September 2014

Background. Efficacy of standard dose of primaquine (PQ) as antirelapse for P. vivax has decreased. We aimed to assess efficacy of different PQ regimens. Methods. It was an open label, randomized, controlled, parallel group, assessor blind study comparing antirelapse efficacy of 3 PQ regimens (B=15 mg/day × 14 days, C=30 mg/day × 7 days, and D=30 mg/day × 14 days) with no PQ group (A) in P. vivax patients. Paired primary and recurrence samples were subjected to 3 methods: (i) month of recurrence and genotyping, (ii) by PCR-RFLP, and (iii) PCR sequencing, to differentiate relapse and reinfection. The rates of recurrence relapse and reinfection were compared. Methods were compared for concordance between them. Results. The recurrence rate was 16.39%, 8.07%, 10.07%, and 6.62% in groups A, B, C, and D,
respectively P=0.004. The relapse rate was 6.89%, 1.55%, 4%, and 3.85% as per the month of recurrence; 8.2%, 2%, 4.58%, and 3.68% P=0.007 as per PCR-RFLP; and 2.73%, 1.47%, 1.55%, and 1.53% as per PCR sequencing for groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. The concordance between methods was low, 45%. Conclusion. The higher recurrence rate in no PQ as compared to PQ groups documents PQ antirelapse activity. Regimens tested were safe. However, probable resistance to PQ warrants continuous monitoring and low concordance and limitations in the methods warrant caution in interpreting.
Arabinogalactan Glycosyltransferases: Enzyme Assay, Protein-Protein Interaction, Subcellular Localization, and Perspectives for Application
Authors: Geshi Naomi
Published: September 2014

Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) are abundant extracellular proteoglycans that are found in most plant species and involved in many cellular processes, such as cell proliferation and survival, pattern formation, and growth, and in plant microbe interaction. AGPs are synthesized by posttranslational O-glycosylation of proteins and attached glycan part often constitutes greater than 90% of the molecule. Subtle altered glycan structures during development have been considered to function as developmental markers on the cell surface, but little is known concerning the molecular mechanisms. My group has been working on glycosylation enzymes (glycosyltransferases) of AGPs to investigate glycan function of the molecule. This review summarizes the recent findings from my group as for AtGalT31A, AtGlcAT14A-C, and AtGalT29A of Arabidopsis thaliana with a specific focus on the (i) biochemical enzyme activities; (ii) subcellular compartments targeted by the glycosyltransferases; and (iii) protein-protein interactions. I also discuss application aspect of glycosyltransferase in improving AGP-based product used in industry, for example, gum arabic.
Bone Marrow-Derived Multipotent Stromal Cells Attenuate Inflammation in Obliterative Airway Disease in Mouse Tracheal Allografts
Authors: Casey Alicia , Dirks Fabian , Liang Olin D. , Harrach Hakima , Schuette-Nuetgen Katharina , Leeman Kristen , Kim Carla F. , Gerard Craig , Subramaniam Meera
Published: September 2014

Obliterative bronchiolitis (OB) remains the most significant cause of death in long-term survival of lung transplantation. Using an established murine heterotopic tracheal allograft model, the effects of different routes of administration of bone marrow-derived multipotent stromal cells (MSCs) on the development of OB were evaluated. Tracheas from BALB/c mice were implanted into the subcutaneous tissue of major histocompatibility complex- (MHC-) disparate C57BL/6 mice. At the time of transplant, bone marrow-derived MSCs were administered either systemically or locally or via a combination of the two routes. The allografts were explanted at various time points after transplantation and were evaluated for epithelial integrity, inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis, and luminal obliteration. We found that the most effective route of bone marrow-derived MSC administration is the combination of systemic and local delivery. Treatment of recipient mice with MSCs suppressed neutrophil, macrophage, and T-cell infiltration and reduced fibrosis. These beneficial effects were observed despite lack of significant MSC epithelial engraftment or new epithelial cell generation. Our study suggests that optimal combination of systemic and local delivery of MSCs may ameliorate the development of obliterative airway disease through modulation of immune response.
Reactivity and Microstructure of Al2O3-Reinforced Magnesium-Matrix Composites
Authors: Mounib Maher , Pavese Matteo , Badini Claudio , Lefebvre Williams , Dieringa Hajo
Published: September 2014

Performances of metal matrix composites (MMCs) rely strongly on the distribution of particles within the metal matrix but also on the chemical reaction which may occur at the liquid-solid interfaces. This paper presents the chemical reaction between aluminum based particles Al2O3and Al2O3-AlOOH with magnesium alloys matrixes AZ91 and EL21, respectively, and studies the microstructure of these reinforced composites. Different methods such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and XRD were used to highlight these chemical reactions and to identify products. Results demonstrate the formation of MgO particles within the matrix for both composites and also the dissolution of aluminum in the eutectic region in the case of EL21.
Optimal Process Conditions for the Manufacture of Aluminum Alloy Bicycle Pedals
Authors: Chen Dyi-Cheng , Lin Jheng-Guang , Ku Wen-Hsuan , Shiu Jiun-Ru
Published: September 2014

Numerous forms and manufacturing methods of bicycle pedals exist in current markets. The purpose of this study was primarily to design an innovative forging die for a bicycle pedal company through a simulative analysis, using commercial finite element package software. A series of simulation analyses adopted workpiece temperature, mold temperature, forging speed, friction factor, and size of the mold as variables to evaluate the methods of lightweight in the bicycle pedal forging press. The study involved modifying professional bicycle pedal sizes. The effective strain, effective stress, and die radius load distribution of the pedals were analyzed under various forging conditions. Aluminum (A6061 and A7075) was used to analyze the simulative data. The optimal control parameters were subsequently obtained using the Taguchi methods and a genetic algorithm. The results of the simulation analyses indicated that the design of an experimental forging die can lower the deformation behavior of a bicycle pedal.
Prognostic Importance of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Akalin Nilgül , Okuturlar Yıldız , Harmankaya Özlem , Gedıkbaşi Asuman , Sezıklı Selçuk , Koçak Yücel Sibel
Published: September 2014

Introduction. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the correlation of FGF-23 levels with bone-mineral metabolism, anemia, and the treatment in dialysis patients.Methods. Eighty-nine patients with similar age, gender, dialysis duration, and dialysis adequacy who were receiving hemodialysis replacement therapy for at least 6 months were included in the study. Serum iron, iron binding capacity, ferritin, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Htc), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), intact parathormone (iPTH), and FGF-23 levels were studied. In addition, active vitamin D and phosphate binders calcimimetic therapies that patients have received in the last 6 months were recorded.Results. It was determined that there was a positive correlation between serum FGF-23 values and PTH values (P<0,01) and Ca*P values (P<0,01). A positive correlation was found between serum FGF-23 values and Ca values at a rate of 24,6% (P<0,05) and betweenPvalues at a rate of 59,1% (P<0,01). A positive correlation was determined between serum FGF-23 values and hemoglobin (Hb) values (P<0,05) and hematocrit (Htc) values (P<0,05). In multivariate analysis, no significant correlation was found between serum FGF-23 levels and Hb and Htc.Conclusion. The effects of high serum FGF-23 levels on different parameters may be correlated with the development of refractory secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Improved Grid-Scan Localization Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Nallanthighal Raghava Srinivasa , Chinta Veeranjaneyulu
Published: September 2014

Localization is a fundamental and crucial service for various applications in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In this paper an improved grid-scan localization algorithm has been proposed. In the proposed algorithm, information about 1-hop, 2-hop, and farther neighboring anchors has been collected that estimates the region using 1-hop anchors. Then, this estimated region is divided into a grid array, finding valid grids using 1-hop and 2-hop anchors information. In addition to that the farther anchor information further reduces the valid grids. The proposed algorithm achieves better location estimation accuracy than the existing grid-scan algorithm.
Antitumor Activity of Lenvatinib (E7080): An Angiogenesis Inhibitor That Targets Multiple Receptor Tyrosine Kinases in Preclinical Human Thyroid Cancer Models
Authors: Tohyama Osamu , Matsui Junji , Kodama Kotaro , Hata-Sugi Naoko , Kimura Takayuki , Okamoto Kiyoshi , Minoshima Yukinori , Iwata Masao , Funahashi Yasuhiro
Published: September 2014

Inhibition of tumor angiogenesis by blockading the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy for thyroid cancer. Lenvatinib mesilate (lenvatinib) is a potent inhibitor of VEGF receptors (VEGFR1–3) and other prooncogenic and prooncogenic receptor tyrosine kinases, including fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR1–4), platelet derived growth factor receptorα(PDGFRα), KIT, and RET. We examined the antitumor activity of lenvatinib against human thyroid cancer xenograft models in nude mice. Orally administered lenvatinib showed significant antitumor activity in 5 differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), 5 anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), and 1 medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) xenograft models. Lenvatinib also showed antiangiogenesis activity against 5 DTC and 5 ATC xenografts, while lenvatinib showed in vitro antiproliferative activity against only 2 of 11 thyroid cancer cell lines: that is, RO82-W-1 and TT cells. Western blot analysis showed that cultured RO82-W-1 cells overexpressed FGFR1 and that lenvatinib inhibited the phosphorylation of FGFR1 and its downstream effector FRS2. Lenvatinib also inhibited the phosphorylation of RET with the activated mutation C634W in TT cells. These data demonstrate that lenvatinib provides antitumor activity mainly via angiogenesis inhibition but also inhibits FGFR and RET signaling pathway in preclinical human thyroid cancer models.
Development and Optimization of an UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS Method Based on an In-Source Collision Induced Dissociation Approach for Comprehensive Discrimination of Chlorogenic Acids Isomers fromMomordicaPlant Species
Authors: Madala N. E. , Tugizimana F. , Steenkamp P. A.
Published: September 2014

Chlorogenic acids (CGA) have been profiled in the leaves ofMomordica balsamina,Momordica charantia, andMomordica foetida. All three species were found to contain thetransandcisisomers of 4-acylpara-coumaroylquinic acid (pCoQA), caffeoylquinic acid (CQA), and feruloylquinic acid (FQA). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report ofpCoQA and FQA and theircisisomers in theseMomordicaspecies. These profiles were obtained by a newly developed UPLC-qTOF-MS method based on the in-source collision induced dissociation (ISCID) method optimized to mimic the MS2and MS3fragmentation of an ion trap-based MS. The presence of thecisisomers is believed to be due to high UV exposure of these plants. Furthermore, the absence of the 3-acyl and 5-acyl CGA molecules points to a metabolic mark that is unusual and represents a very interesting biochemical phenotype of these species. Our optimized ISCID method was also shown to be able to distinguish between the geometrical isomers of all three forms of CGA, a phenomenon previously deemed impossible with other common mass spectrometry systems used for CGA analyses.
Could Some Geriatric Characteristics Hinder the Prescription of Anticoagulants in Atrial Fibrillation in the Elderly?
Authors: Denoël Paule , Vanderstraeten Jacques , Mols Pierre , Pepersack Thierry
Published: September 2014

Several studies have reported underprescription of anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation (AF). We conducted an observational study on 142 out of a total of 995 consecutive ≥75 years old patients presenting AF (14%) when admitted in an emergency unit of a general hospital, in search of geriatric characteristics that might be associated with the underprescription of anticoagulation therapy (mostly antivitamin K at the time of the study). The following data was collected from patients presenting AF: medical history including treatment and comorbidities, CHADS2score, ISAR scale (frailty), Lawton’s scale (ADL), GDS scale (mood status), MUST (nutrition), and blood analysis (INR, kidney function, and albumin). Among those patients for who anticoagulation treatment was recommended (73%), only 61% were treated with it. In the group with anticoagulation therapy, the following characteristics were observed more often than in the group without such therapy: a recent (≤6 months) hospitalization and medical treatment including digoxin or based on >3 different drugs. Neither the value of the CHADS2score, nor the geriatric characteristics could be correlated with the presence or the absence of an anticoagulation therapy. More research is thus required to identify and clarify the relative importance of patient-, physician-, and health care system-related hurdles for the prescription of oral anticoagulation therapy in older patients with AF.
Color Doppler Score: A New Approach for Monitoring a Large Placental Chorioangioma
Authors: Zoppi Maria Angelica , Piras Alessandra , Iuculano Ambra , Arras Maurizio , Mulas Federica , Fadda Maria Carmela , Cossu Sergio , Monni Giovanni
Published: September 2014

We employed color Doppler score as an innovative approach for the prenatal diagnosis and monitoring of a large placental chorioangioma case diagnosed at 26 weeks and the subjective semiquantitative assessment of the vascularization. The blood flow was assessed by a color Doppler score based on the intensity of the color signal with the following value ranges: (1) no flow, (2) minimal flow, (3) moderate flow, and (4) high vascular flow. Weekly examinations were programmed. Initially, a color Doppler score 3 was assigned, remaining unchanged at the following two exams and decreasing to Score 2 in the following 2 exams and to Score 1 thereafter. The ultrasonographic scan showed an increase of the mass size at the second and third exams and was followed by an arrest of the growth persisting for the rest of the pregnancy. Some hyperechogenic spots inside the mass appeared at the end. Expectant management was opted for, and the delivery was at 39, 2 weeks and maternal and fetal outcomes were favourable. The color Doppler score employed for assessment of vascularization in successive examinations proved to be an important tool for the prediction of the chorioangioma involution, and this new approach of monitoring allowed effective surveillance and successful tailored management.
On Almost Semiprime Submodules
Authors: Farzalipour Farkhonde
Published: September 2014

We introduce the concept of almost semiprime submodules
of unitary modules over a commutative ring with nonzero identity. We investigate
some basic properties of almost semiprime and weakly semiprime
submodules and give some characterizations of them, especially for (finitely
generated faithful) multiplication modules.
Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Processable and Flexible Polyimides Containing 3,6-Di(4-carboxyphenyl)pyromellitic Dianhydride
Authors: Khosa Muhammad Kaleem , Jamal Muhammad Asghar , Iqbal Rubbia , Hamid Mazhar
Published: September 2014

A series of six novel polyimides containing 3,6-di(4-carboxyphenyl)pyromellitic dianhydride were synthesized via two steps condensation method. Aromatic diamines monomers, 4-(4-aminophenoxy)-N-(4-(4-aminophenoxy)benzylidene)-3-chloroaniline (DA1), 4-(4-amino-3-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-(4-amino-3-methylphenoxy)benzylidene)-3-chloroaniline (DA2), 4-(4-amino-2-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-(4-amino-2-methylphenoxy)benzylidene)-3-chloroaniline (DA3) 4-(4-aminophenoxy)-N-(4-(4-aminophenoxy)benzylidene)-2-methylaniline (DA4), 4-(4-amino-3-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-(4-amino-3-methylphenoxy)benzylidene)-2-methylaniline (DA5), and 4-(4-amino-2-methylphenoxy)-N-(4-(4-amino-2-methylphenoxy)benzylidene)-2-methylaniline (DA6) were prepared and used to synthesize new polyimides by reaction with resynthesized 3,6-di(4-carboxyphenyl)pyromellitic dianhydride by using two-step condensation method. The inherent viscosities of polyimides range from 0.68–1.04 dL gm−1 and were soluble in polar solvents. Polyimides have excellent thermal stability by showing 10% weight loss temperature was above 450°C. Their glass transition temperatures lie in the range of 250–335°C. Wide-angle X-ray diffractometer investigations revealed the amorphous nature of polyimides. Therefore, these polymers can be a potential candidate as processable high performance polymeric materials.
SVM-RFE Based Feature Selection and Taguchi Parameters Optimization for Multiclass SVM Classifier
Authors: Huang Mei-Ling , Hung Yung-Hsiang , Lee W. M. , Li R. K. , Jiang Bo-Ru
Published: September 2014

Recently, support vector machine (SVM) has excellent performance on classification and prediction and is widely used on disease diagnosis or medical assistance. However, SVM only functions well on two-group classification problems. This study combines feature selection and SVM recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) to investigate the classification accuracy of multiclass problems for Dermatology and Zoo databases. Dermatology dataset contains 33 feature variables, 1 class variable, and 366 testing instances; and the Zoo dataset contains 16 feature variables, 1 class variable, and 101 testing instances. The feature variables in the two datasets were sorted in descending order by explanatory power, and different feature sets were selected by SVM-RFE to explore classification accuracy. Meanwhile, Taguchi method was jointly combined with SVM classifier in order to optimize parametersCandγto increase classification accuracy for multiclass classification. The experimental results show that the classification accuracy can be more than 95% after SVM-RFE feature selection and Taguchi parameter optimization for Dermatology and Zoo databases.
Satellite Attitude Control System Design Taking into Account the Fuel Slosh and Flexible Dynamics
Authors: de Souza Alain G. , de Souza Luiz C. G.
Published: September 2014

The design of the spacecraft Attitude Control System (ACS) becomes more complex when the spacecraft has different type of components like, flexible solar panels, antennas, mechanical manipulators and tanks with fuel. The interaction between the fuel slosh motion, the panel’s flexible motion and the satellite rigid motion during translational and/or rotational manoeuvre can change the spacecraft center of mass position damaging the ACS pointing accuracy. This type of problem can be considered as a Fluid‐Structure Interaction (FSI) where some movable or deformable structure interacts with an internal fluid. This paper develops a mathematical model for a rigid‐flexible satellite with tank with fuel. The slosh dynamics is modelled using a common pendulum model and it is considered to be unactuated. The control inputs are defined by a transverse body fixed force and a moment about the centre of mass. A comparative investigation designing the satellite ACS by the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) and Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) methods is done. One has obtained a significant improvement in the satellite ACS performance and robustness of what has been done previously, since it controls the rigid‐flexible satellite and the fuel slosh motion, simultaneously.
A Novel Dry Model for Practicable Sphincterotomy and Precut Needle Knife Sphincterotomy
Authors: Katanuma Akio , Itoi Takao , Umeda Junko , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Mukai Shuntaro , Yane Kei , Kin Toshifumi , Matsumoto Kazuaki , Matsumori Tomoaki , Gon Katsushige , Takaki Ryo , Tomonari Akiko
Published: September 2014

Aim. We aimed to develop a simulation dry model for endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) and needle knife precut sphincterotomy (NKP) and to evaluate its usefulness as a training simulator.Materials and Methods. An endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography trainer was used as a duodenum, bile duct, and papilla simulator. A simulated papilla was created with a piece of rolled uncured ham, and ES and NKP were performed. Hands-on training was carried out using this model, and success and failure of the procedures were evaluated. A questionnaire survey was conducted among the participants to assess the performance and usefulness of the dry model for ES and NKP training.Results. Twenty-two endoscopists participated in the hands-on training using this dry model. ES was successful in 33 out of 34 attempts (97%) whereas NKP was successful in all 7 attempts (100%). Based on the results of the questionnaire survey, the median score for realism was 7 (range: 2–9) for ES and 8 for NKP on a scale of 1 to 10.Conclusions. The dry model using an uncured ham provides a condition closely similar to actual clinical practice and is useful as a training model for ES and NKP.
A Novel Rat Model of Orthodontic Tooth Movement Using Temporary Skeletal Anchorage Devices: 3D Finite Element Analysis andIn VivoValidation
Authors: Kaipatur Neelambar , Wu Yuchin , Adeeb Samer , Stevenson Thomas , Major Paul , Doschak Michael
Published: September 2014

The aim of this animal study was to develop a model of orthodontic tooth movement using a microimplant as a TSAD in rodents. A finite element model of the TSAD in alveolar bone was built usingμCT images of rat maxilla to determine the von Mises stresses and displacement in the alveolar bone surrounding the TSAD. Forin vivovalidation of the FE model, Sprague-Dawley rats (n=25) were used and a Stryker 1.2 × 3 mm microimplant was inserted in the right maxilla and used to protract the right first permanent molar using a NiTi closed coil spring. Tooth movement measurements were taken at baseline, 4 and 8 weeks. At 8 weeks, animals were euthanized and tissues were analyzed by histology and EPMA. FE modeling showed maximum von Mises stress of 45 Mpa near the apex of TSAD but the average von Mises stress was under 25 Mpa. Appreciable tooth movement of 0.62 ± 0.04 mm at 4 weeks and 1.99 ± 0.14 mm at 8 weeks was obtained. Histological and EPMA results demonstrated no active bone remodeling around the TSAD at 8 weeks depicting good secondary stability. This study provided evidence that protracted tooth movement is achieved in small animals using TSADs.
Method of StudyingΛb0Decays with One Missing Particle
Authors: Stone Sheldon , Zhang Liming
Published: September 2014

A new technique is discussed that can be applied toΛb0baryon decays where decays with one missing particle can be discerned from background and their branching fractions determined, along with other properties of the decays. Applications include measurements of the CKM elements|Vub|and|Vcb|and detection of any exotic objects coupling tob→sdecays, such as the inflaton. Potential use ofB¯0**→π+B-andB¯s0**→K+B-to investigateB-decays is also commented upon.
A Computational Model to Assess Poststenting Wall Stresses Dependence on Plaque Structure and Stenosis Severity in Coronary Artery
Authors: Hajiali Zuned , Dabagh Mahsa , Jalali Payman
Published: September 2014

The current study presents computational models to investigate the poststenting hemodynamic stresses and internal stresses over/within the diseased walls of coronary arteries which are in different states of atherosclerotic plaque. The finite element method is applied to build the axisymmetric models which include the plaque, arterial wall, and stent struts. The study takes into account the mechanical effects of the opening pressure and its association with the plaque severity and the morphology. The wall shear stresses and the von Mises stresses within the stented coronary arteries show their strong dependence on the plaque structure, particularly the fibrous cap thickness. Higher stresses occur in severely stenosed coronaries with a thinner fibrous cap. Large stress concentrations around the stent struts cause injury or damage to the vessel wall which is linked to the mechanism of restenosis. The in‐stent restenosis rate is also highly dependent on the opening pressure, to the extent that stenosed artery is expanded, and geometry of the stent struts. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, that the restenosis is to be viewed as a consequence of biomechanical design of a stent repeating unit, the opening pressure, and the severity and morphology of the plaque.
Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus in Cancer of the Oropharynx by Gender
Authors: Combes Jean-Damien , Chen Alyce A. , Franceschi Silvia
Published: September 2014

Oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is more frequent in men than women mainly due to the heavier and longer duration of smoking in men. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has a role in the rising incidence of OPC in the United States and other high-income countries. To determine whether there is a difference in the proportion of HPV-attributable OPC between men and women, we systematically retrieved HPV prevalence data from 63 studies reporting separately on OPC by gender. The male/female (M/F) ratios of HPV prevalence in OPC across different countries and the corresponding M/F ratios of cumulative lung cancer risk (a proxy for smoking) were compared. The United States had the highest M/F ratios of HPV prevalence in OPC (1.5). The lowest M/F ratios (≤0.7) were found in Asia and some European countries (e.g., France). The countries in which the M/F ratio of HPV prevalence in OPC was ≥1.0 had the most similar lung cancer risks for men and women. When HPV prevalence data were applied to age-standardized OPC incidence rates in the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and France, the M/F ratio for the HPV-positive OPC incidence rates was rather stable (around 4) in all countries. In contrast, the M/F ratio for the HPV-negative OPC incidence rates reached 10.2 in France versus <3 elsewhere. We showed that HPV prevalence in OPC differs by gender and country mainly as a consequence of the vast international variation in male smoking habits. Nevertheless, HPV-positive OPC may affect men more heavily than women in different populations for reasons that are unclear. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2954–8. ©2014 AACR.
First FDA Approval of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer: Pertuzumab for the Treatment of Patients with HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Amiri-Kordestani Laleh , Wedam Suparna , Zhang Lijun , Tang Shenghui , Tilley Amy , Ibrahim Amna , Justice Robert , Pazdur Richard , Cortazar Patricia
Published: September 2014

On September 30, 2013, the FDA granted accelerated approval to pertuzumab (Perjecta; Genentech, Inc.) for use in combination with trastuzumab and docetaxel as neoadjuvant treatment of patients with HER2-positive, locally advanced, inflammatory, or early-stage breast cancer (either greater than 2 cm in diameter or node positive) as part of a complete treatment regimen for early breast cancer. The approval was based in part on a randomized multicenter trial in the indicated population that allocated 417 patients to neoadjuvant treatment with trastuzumab–docetaxel (TD), pertuzumab–trastuzumab–docetaxel (PTD), pertuzumab–trastuzumab, or pertuzumab–docetaxel. PTD was administered preoperatively every 3 weeks for four cycles. Following surgery patients received three cycles of 5-fluorouracil, epirubicin, and cyclophosphamide every 3 weeks and trastuzumab every 3 weeks to complete 1 year of therapy. The pathologic complete response rates by the FDA-preferred definition [absence of invasive cancer in the breast and lymph nodes (ypT0/is ypN0)] were 39.3% and 21.5% in the PTD and the TD arms, respectively (P = 0.0063). The most common adverse reactions with PTD were alopecia, diarrhea, nausea, and neutropenia. This approval was based on the totality of evidence, particularly improved survival in the metastatic breast cancer trial, and a fully accrued confirmatory trial. Clin Cancer Res; 20(21); 5359–64. ©2014 AACR.
Fertility Preservation in Young Females with Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Shapira Moran , Raanani Hila , Cohen Yoram , Meirow Dror
Published: September 2014

Impaired reproductive function and possible infertility are major concerns in long-term survivors of hematological malignancies. The ongoing increase in the survival rates of these patients is therefore accompanied with a growing demand for effective, safe and specifically tailored fertility preservation options. When approaching patients facing hematological malignancy, an individual evaluation of potential infertility risks and possible preventive or preserving measures should be performed. This review aims to provide up-to-date knowledge on female reproductive risks, and ovarian, uterine and genital injuries associated with therapy regimens currently used in hemato-oncological disorders. Recent progress in fertility preservation methods including ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation, egg and embryo freezing, ovarian transposition and their specific role in hematological disorders are presented. The efficacy of these methods, possible risks and future challenges are critically discussed.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Adolescents and Young Adults: Challenging Aspects
Authors: Rowe Jacob M. , Ofran Yishai , Rowe Jacob M.
Published: September 2014

Treating adolescents and young adults (AYAs) diagnosed with cancer is a challenge. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) which is usually diagnosed in a previously healthy kid, requiring immediate aggressive chemotherapy, brings difficulties and conflicts associated with severe illness to extremes. The incidence of AML in adolescents aged 15-19 years approaches 8.5 per million. Only in recent years has it become evident that the prognosis of AYAs diagnosed with AML is poorer compared to younger children diagnosed with AML with similar characteristics. No specific genetic aberration or other known poor risk factor was found to explain the inferior prognosis of AYAs. In acute lymphoblastic leukemia the contribution of differences between adult and pediatric protocols to AYA outcome is established. It has been suggested that pediatric protocols should also apply to AYAs with AML; however, data supporting this are vague. Herein, existing evidence regarding special considerations in treating AYAs with AML is discussed. Mental and psychological age-specific aspects important to consider when treating AYAs with AML are overviewed. Awareness for adolescent special needs, adherence to protocols and intensive supportive care are important. Multidisciplinary adolescent-oriented staff should be involved in the therapy of any AYA with AML escorting this special patient population on the road to cure.
Adolescents and Young Adults with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Slipping between the Cracks
Authors: Wolach Ofir , Ram Ron
Published: September 2014

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have inferior survival as compared to children. The reasons for this survival gap are multifactorial and related to psychosocial aspects, patient- and disease-related biological characteristics as well as to therapeutic approaches within this age span. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) comprises approximately 7% of cancer among AYAs, and patient allocation and therapy vary between health systems. In this systematic review we focus on the current biological and clinical knowledge relevant to AYAs with NHL applying these data to the clinical approach and practice. Data are insufficient to recommend a pediatric or an adult approach for AYAs with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Dose-adjusted EPOCH-R seems to be a promising, radiation-free approach for AYAs with primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma. Limitations in data interpretation include the lack of interventional trials tailored specifically for the AYA population and the lack of uniform criteria for staging and response assessment in pediatric and adult trials.
Challenging Aspects of Managing Hemostasis in Adolescents
Authors: Nowak-Göttl Ulrike , Kenet Gili
Published: September 2014

The prevalence of symptomatic childhood venous thromboembolism increases among adolescents. The occurrence of nonhereditary prothrombotic risk factors, e.g. oral contraceptive pills, often prescribed to adolescent females for various indications, such as tobacco use, obesity and hypertension may trigger symptomatic thrombosis, especially in carriers of genetic thrombophilia traits. On the other hand, heavy menstrual bleeding is a common clinical problem of young adolescent women. A proper diagnostic workup of these women may enable physicians to detect and treat congenital bleeding disorders, e.g. von Willebrand disease, presenting with menorrhagia. The challenges of diagnosis and treatment of either thrombosis or bleeding disorders in young adults will be discussed in this review.
Peer and Romantic Relationships among Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Hematological Cancer: A Review of Challenges and Positive Outcomes
Authors: Foster Rebecca H. , Stern Marilyn
Published: September 2014

This review focuses on peer and romantic relationship experiences of adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of childhood cancer, highlighting those surviving leukemia or lymphoma. While most AYA survivors adjust well to life following a hematological cancer diagnosis and treatment, many unique experiences, both positive and challenging, have been documented with respect to successfully navigating developmentally normative social goals. Therefore, the social implications of surviving childhood leukemia or lymphoma are explored. Specifically, the development of peer and romantic relationships, perceptions of social acceptance, parental influences and attachment, perceived vulnerabilities and body image, and risks to fertility are discussed.
Ischemic and Postischemic Conditioning of the Myocardium in Clinical Practice: Challenges, Expectations and Obstacles
Authors: Iliodromitis Efstathios K. , Andreadou Ioanna , Iliodromitis Konstantinos , Dagres Nikolaos
Published: September 2014

Conditioning refers to endogenous mechanisms rendering the myocardium more tolerant against reperfusion injury. Application of brief ischemia-reperfusion cycles prior to the index ischemia has a beneficial effect and limits the infarct size. This is called preconditioning and is mainly mediated by activation of adenosine, bradykinin, opioid and other receptors, with subsequent activation of intracellular mediators leading to mitochondrial protection. A clinical equivalent of preconditioning is preinfarction angina. Benefits for the ischemic and reperfused myocardium are also provided by repetitive short-lived cycles of ischemia-reperfusion applied after the index ischemia. This is termed postconditioning, shares a common pathway with preconditioning, and is more useful and relevant in clinical practice. Finally, benefits are also derived from remote conditioning, i.e. ischemia applied in a remote vascular territory parallel with or immediately after the index myocardial ischemia. Several pharmacological interventions may interfere with these mechanisms leading to enhanced protection of the myocardium and limitation of the infarct size. Despite the huge interest and the great body of evidence that verify the effectiveness of conditioning, clinical application has remained limited due to controversies over the appropriate intervention protocol, but also interference of medication, comorbidities and other factors that may enhance or blur the protective effect.
Simplified Automated Right Ventricular Overdrive Pacing for Rapid Diagnosis of Supraventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Stec Sebastian , Śledź Janusz , Mazij Mariusz , Ludwik Bartosz , Labus Michał , Spikowski Jerzy , Szydłowski Lesław , Klank-Szafran Monika , Kraszewska Ewa , Budzikowski Adam S.
Published: September 2014

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic value of right ventricular overdrive pacing (RVOP) during supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) using a 2-catheter approach with automatic pacing from the right ventricular inflow (RVIT) and outflow tract (RVOT). Methods: One hundred and thirty-six consecutive patients (with 138 arrhythmias, mean age 36 ± 20 years, range 4-95) were enrolled in this study. Only coronary sinus and ablation catheters were used. RVOP was delivered from RVIT and then from RVOT. Each attempt consisted of 10 synchronized beats delivered at a cycle length of 10-40 ms longer than the tachycardia cycle length. Results: RVOP was sufficient to confirm the transition zone within the first 9 beats in the majority of SVTs. Atrial perturbation (acceleration, delayed) in the transition zone was detected in all patients with orthodromic atrioventricular (AV) reentry. Patients with typical AV nodal reentry, atypical AV nodal reentry and atrial tachycardia did not show atrial timing perturbation during fusion complexes of RVOP. Conclusions: Synchronized RVOP from RVIT or RVOT is an easy and accurate method for the quick and reliable differential diagnosis of SVT in various clinical settings, particularly when only a limited number of catheters are used.
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Adolescents and Young Adults: Patient Characteristics, Outcomes and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pemmaraju Naveen , Cortes Jorge
Published: September 2014

Over the past two decades, many improvements have been made in the management of patients with leukemia. Research in this field most often focuses on the youngest and oldest patient age groups. However, the population of patients in between those age groups has received relatively little attention with few studies specifically focusing on them. This important ‘age gap' has demonstrated a unique, difficult-to-treat group of patients known as adolescents and young adults, or AYAs. Variably defined in the literature as patients from late teenage years to the age of up to 40 years, the AYA group of patients represents a vulnerable subset of patients now identified to require its own focus, development of therapeutic strategies and parallel emphasis on special support systems involving multidisciplinary psychosocial care. Despite the great advancements that have been realized for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), the AYA group has seldom been the focus of specific reports and studies, and the outcome appears to lag behind the general population. This review focuses on this subset of AYA patients with CML and summarizes the available data and recent developments, challenges and treatment options for this group of patients.
Anticonvulsant Treatment Associated with Intractable Hypocalcaemia in a Female Child with Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Formosa Nancy , Torpiano John , Allgrove Jeremy , Dattani Mehul T.
Published: September 2014

Background: We report the case of a female infant with hypoparathyroidism due to an activating mutation in the calcium-sensing receptor gene. Case Report: The child presented in the neonatal period with clinical seizures associated with severe hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphataemia, low parathyroid hormone levels and elevated urine calcium:creatinine ratios. She required intravenous calcium and phenobarbitone initially, and then oral 1-alfacalcidol (1-AC) and phenobarbitone were started. The patient had intractable hypocalcaemia in the first 5 months of life despite escalating doses of 1-AC. When the phenobarbitone was stopped at 5 months of age she was admitted soon after with symptomatic hypercalcaemia. We postulate that the phenobarbitone increased the metabolism of 1-AC and thus she needed large doses of 1-AC to treat hypocalcaemia until the phenobarbitone was stopped. Her parents had no biochemical abnormalities on testing. Results: Molecular genetic analysis confirmed that our patient had a de novo missense variant, c.682G>A (p.Glu228Lys) in exon 4 of the calcium-sensing receptor. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance that clinicians caring for children on vitamin D and its analogues are aware of the interaction with phenobarbitone, which can result in symptomatic hypocalcaemia. 1-AC should be stored at 2-8°C, otherwise it will be rendered inactive.