bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bipolar Traffic Density Awareness Routing Protocol for Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Li David Chunhu , Chou Li-Der , Tseng Li-Ming , Chen Yi-Ming , Kuo Kai-Wei
Published: January 2015

To support an increasing amount of various new applications in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), routing protocol design has become an important research challenge. In this paper, we propose a Bipolar Traffic Density Awareness Routing (BTDAR) protocol for vehicular ad hoc networks. The BTDAR aims at providing reliable and efficient packets delivery for dense and sparse vehicle traffic network environments. Two distinct routing protocols are designed to find an optimal packet delivery path in varied vehicular networks. In dense networks, a link-stability based routing protocol is designed to take vehicles connectivity into consideration in its path selection policy and maximize the stability of intervehicle communications. In sparse networks, a min-delay based routing protocol is proposed to select an optimal route by analyzing intermittent vehicle connectivity and minimize packets delivery latency. Intervehicles connectivity model is analyzed. The performance of BTDAR is examined by comparisons with three distinct VANET routing protocols. Simulation results show that the BTDAR outperforms compared counterpart routing protocols in terms of packet delivery delay and packet delivery ratio.
Influence of Milling Conditions on the Hydriding Properties of Mg‐C Nanocomposites
Authors: Stoyadinova Hristina , Zlatanova Zlatina , Spassova Maya , Spassov Tony , Baklanov Mikhail
Published: February 2015

Mg75 at.%, CB25 at.% (CB: carbon black) composites were synthesized at different ball milling conditions (milling energy, milling duration, and environment) and their hydriding properties were characterized by high‐pressure DSC. The SEM observations revealed that the samples consist of 5–15 μm Mg particles, surrounded and in some cases coated by carbon particles. X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the Mg phase of all as‐obtained composite powders is nanocrystalline with average crystallite size in the range 20–30 nm, depending on the milling conditions. The best hydriding properties, expressed in low‐temperature hydriding (below 150°C) and improved cycle life, showed the composites milled at dry conditions. This is obviously due mainly to the successful Mg surface protection by the carbon. Additional decrease of the hydriding temperature (<100°C) was achieved applying higher‐energy milling, but at the same time the cycling stability deteriorated, due to the extremely fine particles and microstructure achieved under these conditions. The composites milled in the presence of heptane showed rapid capacity decline during cycling as well. The observed difference in the hydriding behavior of the Mg‐CB composites is attributed to the different coating efficiency of the carbon milled under different conditions with Mg, which is supposed to protect magnesium from oxidation and plays a catalytic role for the hydriding reaction.
Expectancy of Stress-Reducing Aromatherapy Effect and Performance on a Stress-Sensitive Cognitive Task
Authors: Chamine Irina , Oken Barry S.
Published: January 2015

Objective. Stress-reducing therapies help maintain cognitive performance during stress. Aromatherapy is popular for stress reduction, but its effectiveness and mechanism are unclear. This study examined stress-reducing effects of aromatherapy on cognitive function using the go/no-go (GNG) task performance and event related potentials (ERP) components sensitive to stress. The study also assessed the importance of expectancy in aromatherapy actions.Methods. 81 adults were randomized to 3 aroma groups (active experimental, detectable, and undetectable placebo) and 2 prime subgroups (prime suggesting stress-reducing aroma effects or no-prime). GNG performance, ERPs, subjective expected aroma effects, and stress ratings were assessed at baseline and poststress.Results. No specific aroma effects on stress or cognition were observed. However, regardless of experienced aroma, people receiving a prime displayed faster poststress median reaction times than those receiving no prime. A significant interaction for N200 amplitude indicated divergent ERP patterns between baseline and poststress for go and no-go stimuli depending on the prime subgroup. Furthermore, trends for beneficial prime effects were shown on poststress no-go N200/P300 latencies and N200 amplitude.Conclusion. While there were no aroma-specific effects on stress or cognition, these results highlight the role of expectancy for poststress response inhibition and attention.
Fabrication of Friction Stir Processed Al-Ni Particulate Composite and Its Impression Creep Behaviour
Authors: Sampath Prakrathi , Krishna Parangodath Vineeth , Udupa Kota Rajendra , Kuruveri Udaya Bhat
Published: February 2015

Nickel powders were troweled on roughened Al base plate using a friction tool made
from tool steel. Friction stir processing (FSP) was carried out using a load of 8 kN and with a
tool rotation speed of 800 rpm and thus a surface composite was processed. Processed samples
were characterized for revealing the microstructural features. SEM and XRD analysis revealed
the presence of fine Ni particles in the stir zone which lead to a significant increase in hardness. Using the “refined energy model,” the maximum temperature developed within the processed
zone was estimated and found to be around 275°C. Impression creep behaviour was assessed
on both the base metal and processed zone at the temperature of 30, 100, and 200°C. Creep
curves were generated and steady state creep rate (SSCR) values were found out to determine the
activation energy. It is observed that friction stirred regions record higher creep rate values
compared to the base metal. Estimated activation energy is in the range of 6 to 16 kJ/mol. Activation energy is marginally lower in the base metal compared to friction stir processed region.
Golden Ratio Genetic Algorithm Based Approach for Modelling and Analysis of the Capacity Expansion of Urban Road Traffic Network
Authors: Zhang Lun , Zhang Meng , Yang Wenchen , Dong Decun
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the modelling and analysis of the capacity expansion of urban road traffic network (ICURTN). Thebilevel programming model is first employed to model the ICURTN, in which the utility of the entire network is maximized with the optimal utility of travelers’ route choice. Then, an improved hybrid genetic algorithm integrated with golden ratio (HGAGR) is developed to enhance the local search of simple genetic algorithms, and the proposed capacity expansion model is solved by the combination of the HGAGR and the Frank-Wolfe algorithm. Taking the traditional one-way network and bidirectional network as the study case, three numerical calculations are conducted to validate the presented model and algorithm, and the primary influencing factors on extended capacity model are analyzed. The calculation results indicate that capacity expansion of road network is an effective measure to enlarge the capacity of urban road network, especially on the condition of limited construction budget; the average computation time of the HGAGR is 122 seconds, which meets the real-time demand in the evaluation of the road network capacity.
Psychological Therapies in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Altayar Osama , Sharma Varun , Prokop Larry J. , Sood Amit , Murad Mohammad Hassan
Published: January 2015

Background. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a poorly understood disease with few effective treatments. Psychosocial factors are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of IBS.Objective. To evaluate the evidence for psychological therapies in IBS treatment.Methods. We searched six medical databases through February 6, 2014, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of psychological therapies for the treatment of IBS. Two independent reviewers identified the RCTs, extracted the data, and assessed trial quality. We used the random-effect model to pool standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) across trials.Results. 15 RCTs that mostly evaluated cognitive behavioral therapy were included. Psychological therapies were associated with improvement in IBS symptoms severity scales (SMD −0.618; 95% CI: −0.853 to −0.383), IBS-Quality of Life (SMD 0.604; 95% CI: 0.440 to 0.768), and abdominal pain (SMD −0.282; 95% CI: −0.562 to −0.001). No statistically significant effect was observed on diarrhea or constipation.Limitations. The trials were at increased risk of bias and the overall sample size was small leading to imprecision.Conclusion. Psychological therapies may improve the quality of life and symptom severity in IBS. The effect size noted is moderate to large and is clinically meaningful.
Facile Synthesis, Characterization, and In Vitro Antimicrobial Screening of a New Series of 2,4,6-Trisubstituted-s-triazine Based Compounds
Authors: Singh Ravi Bhushan , Das Nirupam , Zaman Md. Kamaruz
Published: January 2015

A series of new 2,4,6-trisubstituted-s-triazine was synthesized, assessed for antimicrobial activity, and characterized by FTIR, 1HNMR, 13CNMR, and elemental analysis. The tested compounds, 4d, 4g, 4h, 4k, and 4n, have shown considerable in vitro antibacterial efficacy with reference to the standard drug ciprofloxacin (MIC 3.125 μgmL−1 against B. subtilis, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae). It was observed that compounds 4d and 4h displayed equipotent antibacterial efficacy against B. subtilis (MIC 3.125 μgmL−1) and S. aureus (MIC 6.25 μgmL−1). The studies demonstrated that the para-fluorophenylpiperazine substituted s-triazine (4n) was potent and exhibited broad spectrum antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa with MIC of 6.25 μgmL−1 and for E. coli, it showed an MIC of 3.125 μgmL−1 equipotent with reference to the standard drug. Among all the compounds under investigation, compound 4g also demonstrated significant antifungal activity (3.125 μgmL−1) against C. albicans.
Measurement of Thermal Conductivity along the Radial Direction in a Vertical Cylindrical Packed Bed
Authors: Bedarkar Swaren , Viswanathan Nurni Neelakantan , Ballal Nidambur Bharatha
Published: February 2015

Heat transfer in packed beds and their thermal response have been of great interest for scientists and engineers for the last several years, since they play a crucial role in determining design and operation of reactors. Heat transfer of a packed bed is characterised through lumped parameter, namely, effective thermal conductivity. In the present studies, experiments were performed to investigate the thermal conductivity of a packed bed in radial direction. The packed bed was formed using iron ore particles. To determine the effective thermal conductivity a new transient methodology is proposed. The results obtained were compared with the models proposed by ZBS and Kunii and Smith.
Characterization and Prediction of Cracks in Coated Materials: Direction and Length of Crack Propagation in Bimaterials
Authors: Pruncu C. I. , Azari Z. , Casavola C. , Pappalettere C.
Published: January 2015

The behaviour of materials is governed by the surrounding environment. The contact area between the material and the surrounding environment is the likely spot where different forms of degradation, particularly rust, may be generated. A rust prevention treatment, like bluing, inhibitors, humidity control, coatings, and galvanization, will be necessary. The galvanization process aims to protect the surface of the material by depositing a layer of metallic zinc by either hot-dip galvanizing or electroplating. In the hot-dip galvanizing process, a metallic bond between steel and metallic zinc is obtained by immersing the steel in a zinc bath at a temperature of around 460°C. Although the hot-dip galvanizing procedure is recognized to be one of the most effective techniques to combat corrosion, cracks can arise in the intermetallic δ layer. These cracks can affect the life of the coated material and decrease the lifetime service of the entire structure. In the present paper the mechanical response of hot-dip galvanized steel submitted to mechanical loading condition is investigated. Experimental tests were performed and corroborative numerical and analytical methods were then applied in order to describe both the mechanical behaviour and the processes of crack/cracks propagation in a bimaterial as zinc-coated material.
A Case of True Hermaphroditism Presenting as a Testicular Tumour
Authors: Ceci Michelle , Calleja Edward , Said Edith , Gatt Noel
Published: February 2015

True hermaphroditism represents only 5% cases of all of disorders of sexual differentiation (DSD) and usually present in early childhood with ambiguous genitalia. Occasionally, cases might present later on in adolescence with problems of sexual maturation. Our case report presents a true hermaphrodite with normal male phenotype that presented as a left testicular mass, two years after being diagnosed with Sertoli cell only syndrome in the contralateral testis. Histological examination of the left testis showed ovarian, fallopian tube, myometrial, endometrial, and epididymal tissue. This combination of findings is found in approximately one-third of true hermaphrodites, but it is very rare to present clinically as an inguinoscrotal mass.
Impact of Plasma Epstein-Barr Virus-DNA and Tumor Volume on Prognosis of Locally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Meng , Yin Li , Wu Jing , Gu Jia-Jia , Jiang Xue-Song , Wang De-Jun , Zong Dan , Guo Chang , Zhu Huan-Feng , Wu Jian-Feng , He Xia , Guo Wen-Jie
Published: January 2015

This retrospective study aims to examine the association of plasma Epstein-Barr virus- (EBV-) DNA levels with the tumor volume and prognosis in patients with locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). A total of 165 patients with newly diagnosed locally advanced NPC were identified from September 2011 to July 2012. EBV-DNA was detected using fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The tumor volume was calculated by the systematic summation method of computer software. The median copy number of plasma EBV-DNA before treatment was 3790 copies/mL. The median gross tumor volume of the primary nasopharyngeal tumor (GTVnx), the lymph node lesions (GTVnd), and the total GTV before treatment were 72.46, 23.26, and 106.25 cm3, respectively; the EBV-DNA levels were significantly correlated with the GTVnd and the total GTV (P<0.01). The 2-year overall survival (OS) rates in patients with positive and negative pretreatment plasma EBV-DNA were 100% and 98.4% (P=1.000), and the disease-free survival (DFS) rates were 94.4% and 80.8% (P=0.044), respectively. These results indicate that high pretreatment plasma EBV-DNA levels in patients with locally advanced NPC are associated with the degree of lymph node metastasis, tumor burden, and poor prognosis.
Pneumonia byListeria monocytogenes: A Common Infection by an Uncommon Pathogen
Authors: Koufakis Theocharis , Chatzopoulou Marianneta , Margaritis Anastasios , Tsiakalou Maria , Gabranis Ioannis
Published: January 2015

Infections byListeria monocytogenestypically occur in infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunosuppressed subjects. Pulmonary infections in adults are extremely uncommon and only few reports can be found in the literature. We here report a case ofListeriapneumonia in an 85-year-old female patient and we discuss our diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Despite being rare and in most cases difficult to be identified,Listeriapneumonia should always be considered in immunosuppressed patients, presenting with fever and symptoms from the lower respiratory system.
Multiple Epithelioid Hemangiomas with Orbital Involvement
Authors: Miličić Branislava , Velnar Tomaž , Pregelj Rado , Limbaeck-Stokin Clara
Published: January 2015

Epithelioid hemangioma, also known as angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia, is a cutaneous angioproliferative lesion that follows a benign clinical course. It is most frequently localized in the skin of the head and neck region; although it may sometimes arise deeper in soft tissues, orbital involvement is rare. Here we describe a patient who developed multiple epithelioid hemangiomas, including an intraorbital lesion. The histopathological parallels with other reactive and neoplastic lesions as well as therapeutic options are discussed.
Development of Power Electronics Based Test Platform for Characterization and Testing of Magnetocaloric Materials
Authors: Elamalayil Soman Deepak , Loncarski Jelena , Gerdin Lisa , Eklund Petter , Eriksson Sandra , Leijon Mats
Published: January 2015

Magnetocaloric effects of various materials are getting more and more interesting for the future, as they can significantly contribute towards improving the efficiency of many energy intensive applications such as refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning. Accurate characterization of magnetocaloric effects, exhibited by various materials, is an important process for further studies and development of the suitable magnetocaloric heating and cooling solutions. The conventional test facilities have plenty of limitations, as they focus only on the thermodynamic side and use magnetic machines with moving bed of magnetocaloric material or magnet. In this work an entirely new approach for characterization of the magnetocaloric materials is presented, with the main focus on a flexible and efficient power electronic based excitation and a completely static test platform. It can generate a periodically varying magnetic field using superposition of an ac and a dc magnetic field. The scale down prototype uses a customized single phase H-bridge inverter with essential protections and an electromagnet load as actuator. The preliminary simulation and experimental results show good agreement and support the usage of the power electronic test platform for characterizing magnetocaloric materials.
A New BFGS Algorithm Using the Decomposition Matrix of the Correction Matrix to Obtain the Search Directions
Authors: Liu Li
Published: January 2015

We present an improved method for determining the search direction in the BFGS algorithm. Our approach uses the equal inner product decomposition method for positive-definite matrices. The decomposition of an approximated Hessian matrix expresses a correction formula that is independent from the exact line search. This decomposed matrix is used to compute the search direction in a new BFGS algorithm.
Reduced Risk of Parkinson’s Disease in Users of Calcium Channel Blockers: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gudala Kapil , Kanukula Raju , Bansal Dipika
Published: February 2015

Aim. To pool the data currently available to determine the association between calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD).Methods. Literature search in PubMed, EBSCO, and Cochrane library was undertaken through March 2014, looking for observational studies evaluating the association between CCBs use and PD. Pooled relative risk (RR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects model. Subgroup analyses, sensitivity Analysis, and cumulative meta-analysis were also performed.Results. Six studies were included in our meta-analysis according to the selection criteria, including three cohort studies and three case-control studies involving 27,67,990 subjects including 11,941 PD cases. We found CCBs use was associated with significant decreased risk of PD, compared with not using CCBs (random effects model pooled RR, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.69–0.95)); a significant heterogeneity was found between studies (P=0.031;I254.6%). Both the classes of CCB, that is, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (DiCCB) (0.80 (95% CI, 0.65–0.98)P=0.032) and non-DiCCB (0.70 (95% CI, 0.53–0.92)P=0.013), were found to be reducing the risk of PD.Conclusion. In our analysis, we found that CCBs use was associated with a Significantly decreased risk of PD compared with non-CCB use.
Public Health Implications and Risk Factors Assessment ofMycobacterium bovisInfections among Abattoir Personnel in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Sa’idu A. S. , Okolocha E. C. , Dzikwi A. A. , Gamawa A. A. , Ibrahim S. , Kwaga J. K. P. , Usman A. , Maigari S. A.
Published: January 2015

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a chronic infectious and contagious zoonotic disease of domestic animals, wild animals, and humans. It poses a public health threat and economic losses due to abattoir condemnation of infected carcasses during meat inspection of slaughtered animals. Bovine tuberculosis is widespread in Africa including Nigeria affecting both cattle and humans, particularly Northern Nigeria. A prospective survey was conducted from June to August 2013 in the three Zonal abattoirs of Bauchi State, Nigeria. A total of 150 structured close-ended questionnaires were administered to abattoir personnel to assess their level of awareness of bTB. This study was aimed at determining the level of public health awareness, attitude, and practices of abattoir workers of bTB in Bauchi State, Nigeria. There was a statistically significant association between respondents’ awareness of bTB and their occupational status, age, and duration of exposure to cattle carcasses (P<0.05); the odds of being aware of bTB were 9.4, 7.3, and 2.1, respectively. In conclusion, these demonstrate the urgent need for public health authorities to intervene in bTB control. The risk of bTB transmission as indicated by the personnel’s practices and awareness levels in Bauchi State could be prevented through the use of protective clothing (PPEs).
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Therapies in Pancreatic Neoplasms
Authors: Yang Dennis , DiMaio Christopher J.
Published: January 2015

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has evolved from being primarily a diagnostic modality into an interventional endoscopic tool for the management of both benign and malignant gastrointestinal illnesses. EUS-guided therapy has garnered particular interest as a minimally invasive approach for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, a disease often complicated by its aggressive course and poor survival. The potential advantage of an EUS-guided approach revolves around real-time imaging for targeted therapy of a difficult to reach organ. In this review, we focus on EUS-guided therapies for pancreatic neoplasms.
Iliac Vein Compression Syndrome due to Bladder Distention Caused by Urethral Calculi
Authors: Ikegami Akiko , Kondo Takeshi , Tsukamoto Tomoko , Ohira Yoshiyuki , Ikusaka Masatomi
Published: January 2015

We report a rare case of iliac vein compression syndrome caused by urethral calculus. A 71-year-old man had a history of urethral stenosis. He complained of bilateral leg edema and dysuria for 1 week. Physical examination revealed bilateral distention of the superficial epigastric veins, so obstruction of both common iliac veins or the inferior vena cava was suspected. Plain abdominal computed tomography showed a calculus in the pendulous urethra, distention of the bladder (as well as the right renal pelvis and ureter), and compression of the bilateral common iliac veins by the distended bladder. Iliac vein compression syndrome was diagnosed. Bilateral iliac vein compression due to bladder distention (secondary to neurogenic bladder, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or urethral calculus as in this case) is an infrequent cause of acute bilateral leg edema. Detecting distention of the superficial epigastric veins provides a clue for diagnosis of this syndrome.
Stability-Indicating HPLC Determination of Trandolapril in Bulk Drug and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Al-Hawash Leena A. , Shakya Ashok K. , Saleem Maher L.
Published: January 2015

A rapid, simple, accurate, precise, economical, robust, and stability indicating reverse phase HPLC-PDA procedure has been developed and validated for the determination of trandolapril. The trandolapril was separated isocratically on Hypersil-Gold C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) with a mobile phase consisting of 50% acetonitrile and 50% water (containing 0.025% triethylamine, pH3.0±0.1), at25±2°C. Retention time of the drug was ~4.6 min. The eluted compounds were monitored and identified at 210 nm. The linearity of the method was excellent(r2>0.9999)over the concentration range of 1–24 μg/mL; the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.0566 μg/mL and 0.1715 μg/mL, respectively. The overall precision was less than 2%. Mean recovery of trandolapril was more than 99%; no interference was found from the component present in the preparation. Stability studies indicate that the drug was stable to sunlight and UV light. The drug gives 6 different oxidative products on exposure to hydrogen peroxide. Slight degradation was observed in acidic condition. Degradation was higher in the alkaline condition compared to other conditions. The robustness of the method was studied using factorial design experiment.
Targeting Bone Metabolism in Patients with Advanced Prostate Cancer: Current Options and Controversies
Authors: Todenhöfer Tilman , Stenzl Arnulf , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Rachner Tilman D.
Published: January 2015

Maintaining bone health remains a clinical challenge in patients with prostate cancer (PC) who are at risk of developing metastatic bone disease and increased bone loss due to hormone ablation therapy. In patients with cancer-treatment induced bone loss (CTIBL), antiresorptive agents have been shown to improve bone mineral density (BMD) and to reduce the risk of fractures. For patients with bone metastases, both zoledronic acid and denosumab delay skeletal related events (SREs) in the castration resistant stage of disease. Novel agents targeting the Wnt inhibitors dickkopf-1 and sclerostin are currently under investigation for the treatment of osteoporosis and malignant bone disease. New antineoplastic drugs such as abiraterone, enzalutamide, and Radium-223 are capable of further delaying SREs in patients with advanced PC. The benefit of antiresorptive treatment for patients with castration sensitive PC appears to be limited. Recent trials on the use of zoledronic acid for the prevention of bone metastases failed to be successful, whereas denosumab delayed the occurrence of bone metastases by a median of 4.1 months. Currently, the use of antiresorptive drugs to prevent bone metastases still remains a field of controversies and further trials are needed to identify patient subgroups that may profit from early therapy.
Modeling of Time of Arrival Method for Lightning Locating Systems
Authors: Vahabi-Mashak Saeed , Abdul-Malek Zulkurnain , Mehranzamir Kamyar , Nabipour-Afrouzi Hadi , Salimi Behnam , Wooi Chin-Leong
Published: January 2015

Various methods are used to locate cloud-to-ground lightning flashes. Even though a higher cost is incurred, a network of sensor stations is preferable to a single station due to the improved accuracy. For a single station measuring system, the accuracy of its analyses is mostly based on the chosen mathematical equations which can be solved in either linear or nonlinear mode. The sensitivity of the measuring equipment used is also particularly significant. This paper concentrates on the modelling of time of arrival (TOA) technique for locating a lightning flash by utilizing three broadband antennas. Consequently, by employing the developed model, the influences of geometric parameters on the accuracy of the model are evaluated. Therefore, a Matlab based simulation of the measuring system is developed. In the developed codes, randomly located lightning flash with its corresponding electromagnetic radiation was modelled. Results show that parameters such as lightning path shape, distance of the leader, and leader location can directly affect the accuracy of the TOA technique for extracting the azimuth and elevation.
On Fuzzy Solutions for Diffusion Equation
Authors: Leite Jefferson , Cecconello Moiseis , Leite Jackellyne , Bassanezi R. C.
Published: January 2015

Our main goal is to define a fuzzy solution for problems involving diffusion. To this end, the solution of fuzzy diffusion-reaction-advection equation will be defined as Zadeh’s extension of deterministic solution of the associated problem. Important aspects such as unity and stability of these solutions will also be studied. Graphical representations of these solutions will be presented.
Total Knee Arthroplasty in a Patient with Bilateral Congenital Dislocation of the Patella Treated with a Different Method in Each Knee
Authors: Yamanaka Hajime , Kawamoto Taisei , Tamai Hiroshi , Suzuki Munetaka , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Eguchi Yawara , Nakajima Hideyuki
Published: January 2015

We have operated total knee arthroplasty in a patient with bilateral congenital dislocation of the patella treated with a different method in each knee.
Gender-Specific Associations of Serum Antibody toPorphyromonas gingivalisand Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Furuta Michiko , Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Tanaka Shunichi , Takeuchi Kenji , Shibata Yukie , Takeshita Toru , Nishimura Fusanori , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: January 2015

It remains unclear whether serum antibody titer againstPorphyromonas gingivalis(Pg) and inflammatory components lead to periodontal deterioration in each gender, as periodontal and systemic status is influenced by gender. The present study investigates the gender-specific probable effects of titer againstPgand inflammatory markers on periodontal health status in a longitudinal study. A retrospective study design was used. At two time points over an 8-year period (in 2003 and 2011), 411 individuals (295 males with a mean age of 57.6 ± 11.2 years and 116 females with a mean age of 59.2 ± 10.3 years) were surveyed. Periodontal status, serum antibody titer againstPg, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were evaluated. Poisson regression analyses revealed that the elevated titer againstPgand hsCRP significantly predicted the persistence of periodontal disease 8 years later in females with periodontal disease in 2003. Elevated hsCRP was significantly associated with the incidence of periodontal disease 8 years later in females who were periodontally healthy in 2003. Males had a weaker association among titer againstPg, inflammatory markers, and periodontal disease. These findings suggest that immune response toPginfection in addition to inflammatory components affects periodontal deterioration in females.
Tongue Necrosis as an Initial Manifestation of Giant Cell Arteritis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zaragoza Jose R. , Vernon Natalia , Ghaffari Gisoo
Published: January 2015

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is a systemic vasculitis of medium and large arteries that mainly affects the external carotid artery. It is a diagnosis of the elderly that typically presents as low-grade fever, temporal tenderness, claudication of the jaw, and in some patients vision loss. In cases where GCA presents with atypical manifestations, the diagnosis may be more difficult, causing a delay in both diagnosis and treatment and ultimately leading to irreversible complications. In this paper, we present an atypical presentation of GCA with symptoms of neck swelling and lingual pain in an elderly female. These symptoms progressed to bilateral necrosis and eventual dislodgement of the tongue. Lingual necrosis is a severe potential complication in GCA. In patients presenting with lingual swelling, pain, and discoloration, GCA should be suspected and prompt therapy should be initiated to avoid irreversible complications.
Fabrication and Properties of Macroscopic Carbon Nanotube Assemblies Transforming from Aligned Nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Y. N. , Sun G. Z. , Zheng L. X.
Published: February 2015

Macroscale assemblies of well‐aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can inherit intrinsic properties from individual CNTs and at the same time ease handling difficulties that occur at nanometer scale when dealing with individual CNTs. Herein, simple fabrication processes are introduced to produce a variety of macroscale CNT assemblies, including well‐aligned CNT bundles, CNT films, and CNT fibers, from the same starting material: spinnable CNT arrays. The electrical and mechanical properties of the as‐prepared CNT assemblies have been investigated and compared. It is found that CNT films show an electrical conductivity of 145~250 S cm−1 which is comparable to CNT fibers, but two orders magnitude higher than that of conventional Bucky paper. CNT fibers exhibit diameter dependent tensile strength which is mainly attributed to the nonuniform twisting along the radial direction of fibers.
Detection ofMycobacterium bovisin Organs of Slaughtered Cattle by DNA-Based Polymerase Chain Reaction and Ziehl-Neelsen Techniques in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Sa’idu A. S. , Okolocha E. C. , Dzikwi A. A. , Kwaga J. K. P. , Gamawa A. A. , Usman A. , Maigari S. A. , Ibrahim S.
Published: February 2015

Bovine tuberculosis is a chronic, infectious, and contagious zoonotic disease of domestic animals, wild animals, and humans. It also poses a public health threat and economic losses. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in slaughtered cattle, based on PM meat inspection, Ziehl-Neelsen staining, and PCR techniques in Bauchi State, Nigeria. A Prospective study was conducted on 800 cattle slaughtered in the three Zonal abattoirs of Bauchi State, Nigeria. One hundred and twenty (15%) tissues from different organs had suspected bTB lesions at PM. Out of the samples examined 35 (29.2%) were AFB positive by ZN and 10 (8.3%) were confirmed positive forM. bovisby PCR, with an overall prevalence of 29.16% and 8.33%, respectively. Female had a higher prevalence rate than male cattle at 16.66% and 12.5 % by ZN and 5.00% and 3.33% by PCR, respectively (P>0.05,χ2=0.218). However, there was a statistically significant association (P<0.05,χ2=7.002) between detection of bTB and the age of cattle. ZN revealed that cattle aged 6 years and above had the highest number of positive bTB cases 67.9%, while cattle aged 3–5 years had the lowest 14.81%. PCR technique revealed that the cattle aged 6 and above years also had the highest percentage positiveM. boviscases of 22.84%, whereas cattle aged 3–5 years had the lowest and the overall prevalence rate of 8.33%.The study found a high infection rate of bTB among cattle and majority of the lesions 54.2% were from lungs. The prevalence of bTB was higher in Bauchi metropolitan abattoir which supplies larger population of the state with beef.
Biofilm-FormingStaphylococcus epidermidisExpressing Vancomycin Resistance Early after Adhesion to a Metal Surface
Authors: Sakimura Toshiyuki , Kajiyama Shiro , Adachi Shinji , Chiba Ko , Yonekura Akihiko , Tomita Masato , Koseki Hironobu , Miyamoto Takashi , Tsurumoto Toshiyuki , Osaki Makoto
Published: January 2015

We investigated biofilm formation and time of vancomycin (VCM) resistance expression after adhesion to a metal surface inStaphylococcus epidermidis. Biofilm-formingStaphylococcus epidermidiswith a VCM MIC of 1 μg/mL was used. The bacteria were made to adhere to a stainless steel washer and treated with VCM at different times and concentrations. VCM was administered 0, 2, 4, and 8 hours after adhesion. The amount of biofilm formed was evaluated based on the biofilm coverage rates (BCRs) before and after VCM administration, bacterial viability in biofilm was visually observed using the fluorescence staining method, and the viable bacterial count in biofilm was measured. The VCM concentration required to decrease BCR significantly compared with that of VCM-untreated bacteria was 4 μg/mL, even in the 0 hr group. In the 4 and 8 hr groups, VCM could not inhibit biofilm growth even at 1,024 μg/mL. In the 8 hr group, viable bacteria remained in biofilm at a count of 104CFU even at a high VCM concentration (1,024 μg/mL). It was suggested that biofilm-formingStaphylococcus epidermidisexpresses resistance to VCM early after adhesion to a metal surface. Resistance increased over time after adhesion as the biofilm formed, and strong resistance was expressed 4–8 hours after adhesion.
The Biocompatibility of Degradable Magnesium Interference Screws: An Experimental Study with Sheep
Authors: Thormann Ulrich , Alt Volker , Heimann Lydia , Gasquere Cyrille , Heiss Christian , Szalay Gabor , Franke Jörg , Schnettler Reinhard , Lips Katrin Susanne
Published: January 2015

Screws for ligament reconstruction are nowadays mostly made of poly-L-lactide (PLLA). However, magnesium-based biomaterials are gathering increased interest in this research field because of their good mechanical property and osteoanabolic influence on bone metabolism. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of an interference screw for ligament reconstruction made of magnesium alloy W4 by diecasting and milling and using different PEO-coatings with calcium phosphates. PLLA and titanium screws were used as control samples. The screws were implanted in the femur condyle of the hind leg of a merino sheep. The observation period was six and twelve weeks and one year. Histomorphometric, immunohistochemical, immunofluorescence, and molecular biological evaluation were conducted. Further TEM analysis was done. In all magnesium screws a clinically relevant gas formation in the vicinity of the biomaterial was observed. Except for the PLLA and titanium control samples, no screw was fully integrated in the surrounding bone tissue. Regarding the fabrication process, milling seems to produce less gas liberation and has a better influence on bone metabolism than diecasting. Coating by PEO with calcium phosphates could not reduce the initial gas liberation but rather reduced the bone metabolism in the vicinity of the biomaterial.
Anticancer and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of a Standardized Dichloromethane Extract fromPiper umbellatumL. Leaves
Authors: Iwamoto Leilane Hespporte , Vendramini-Costa Débora Barbosa , Monteiro Paula Araújo , Ruiz Ana Lúcia Tasca Gois , Sousa Ilza Maria de Oliveira , Foglio Mary Ann , de Carvalho João Ernesto , Rodrigues Rodney Alexandre Ferreira
Published: February 2015

Despite the advances in anticancer drug discovery field, the worldwide cancer incidence is remarkable, highlighting the need for new therapies focusing on both cancer cell and its microenvironment. The tumor microenvironment offers multiple targets for cancer therapy, including inflammation. Nowadays, almost 75% of the anticancer agents used in chemotherapy are derived from natural products, and plants are an important source of new promising therapies. Continuing our research onPiper umbellatumspecies, here we describe the anticancer (in vitroantiproliferative activity andin vivoEhrlich solid tumor model) and anti-inflammatory (carrageenan-induced paw edema and peritonitis models) activities of a standardized dichloromethane extract (SDE) fromP. umbellatumleaves, containing 23.9% of 4-nerolidylcatechol. SDE showedin vitroandin vivoantiproliferative activity, reducing Ehrlich solid tumor growth by 38.7 and 52.2% when doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively, were administered daily by oral route. Daily treatments did not produce signals of toxicity. SDE also reduced paw edema and leukocyte migration on carrageenan-induced inflammation models, suggesting that the anticancer activity of SDE fromPiper umbellatumleaves could involve antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. These findings highlightP. umbellatumas a source of compounds against cancer and inflammation.
RB and Prognosis in Resected Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Collisson Eric A.
Published: February 2015

The treatment of resected lung adenocarcinoma has ample room for improvement. Can genomic characterization aid us in deciding how and when to apply adjuvant therapy in the smallest resected tumors? Clin Cancer Res; 21(11); 2418–20. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Choi et al., p. 2613
IKKβ Regulates VEGF Expression and Is a Potential Therapeutic Target for Ovarian Cancer as an Antiangiogenic Treatment
Authors: Kinose Yasuto , Sawada Kenjiro , Makino Hiroshi , Ogura Tomonori , Mizuno Tomoko , Suzuki Noriko , Fujikawa Tomoyuki , Morii Eiichi , Nakamura Koji , Sawada Ikuko , Toda Aska , Hashimoto Kae , Isobe Aki , Mabuchi Seiji , Ohta Tsuyoshi , Itai Akiko , Morishige Ken-ichirou , Kurachi Hirohisa , Kimura Tadashi
Published: January 2015

The prolongation of progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with advanced ovarian cancer by antiangiogenic therapy has been shown in several clinical trials. However, although an anti-VEGF antibody (bevacizumab) is the only option currently available, its efficacy is limited and it is not cost effective for use in all patients. Therefore, the development of a novel antiangiogenic drug, especially composed of small-molecule compounds, could be a powerful armament for ovarian cancer treatment. As NF-κB signaling has the potential to regulate VEGF expression, we determined to identify whether VEGF expression is associated with NF-κB activation and to investigate the possibility of a novel IKKβ inhibitor, IMD-0354 (IMMD Inc.), as an antiangiogenic drug. Tissue microarrays from 94 ovarian cancer tissues were constructed and immunohistochemical analyses performed. We revealed that IKK phosphorylation is an independent prognostic factor (PFS: 26.1 vs. 49.8 months, P = 0.011), and is positively correlated with high VEGF expression. In in vitro analyses, IMD-0354 robustly inhibited adhesive and invasive activities of ovarian cancer cells without impairing cell viabilities. IMD-0354 significantly suppressed VEGF production from cancer cells, which led to the inhibition of angiogenesis. In a xenograft model, the treatment of IMD-0354 significantly inhibited peritoneal dissemination with a marked reduction of intratumoral blood vessel formation followed by the inhibition of VEGF expression from cancer cells. IMD-0354 is a stable small-molecule drug and has already been administered safely to humans in other trials. Antiangiogenic therapy targeting IKKβ is a potential future option to treat ovarian cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(4); 909–19. ©2015 AACR.
Variants of Osteoprotegerin Lacking TRAIL Binding for Therapeutic Bone Remodeling in Osteolytic Malignancies
Authors: Higgs Jerome T. , Jarboe John S. , Lee Joo Hyoung , Chanda Diptiman , Lee Carnellia M. , Deivanayagam Champion , Ponnazhagan Selvarangan
Published: January 2015

Osteolytic bone damage is a major cause of morbidity in several metastatic pathologies. Current therapies using bisphosphonates provide modest improvement, but cytotoxic side effects still occur prompting the need to develop more effective therapies to target aggressive osteoclastogenesis. Increased levels of receptor activator of NF–κB ligand (TNFSF11/RANKL), leading to RANKL-RANK signaling, remain the key axis for osteoclast activation and bone resorption. Osteoprotegerin (TNFRSF11B/OPG), a decoy receptor for RANKL, is significantly decreased in patients who present with bone lesions. Despite its potential in inhibiting osteoclast activation, OPG also binds to TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TNFSF10/TRAIL), making tumor cells resistant to apoptosis. Toward uncoupling the events of TRAIL binding of OPG and to improve its utility for bone remodeling without inducing tumor resistance to apoptosis, OPG mutants were developed by structural homology modeling based on interactive domain identification and by superimposing models of OPG, TRAIL, and its receptor DR5 (TNFRSF10B) to identify regions of OPG for rational design. The OPG mutants were purified and extensively characterized for their ability to decrease osteoclast damage without affecting tumor apoptosis pathway both in vitro and in vivo, confirming their potential in bone remodeling following cancer-induced osteolytic damage.

Implications: OPG variants were developed that lack TRAIL binding, yet retain RANKL binding and suggest new possibilities for therapeutic targeting in osteolytic malignancies. Mol Cancer Res; 13(5); 819–27. ©2015 AACR.
mTOR/MYC Axis Regulates O-GlcNAc Transferase Expression and O-GlcNAcylation in Breast Cancer
Authors: Sodi Valerie L. , Khaku Sakina , Krutilina Raisa , Schwab Luciana P. , Vocadlo David J. , Seagroves Tiffany N. , Reginato Mauricio J.
Published: January 2015

Cancers exhibit altered metabolism characterized by increased glucose and glutamine uptake. The hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP) uses glucose and glutamine, and directly contributes to O-linked-β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) modifications on intracellular proteins. Multiple tumor types contain elevated total O-GlcNAcylation, in part, by increasing O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) levels, the enzyme that catalyzes this modification. Although cancer cells require OGT for oncogenesis, it is not clear how tumor cells regulate OGT expression and O-GlcNAcylation. Here, it is shown that the PI3K–mTOR–MYC signaling pathway is required for elevation of OGT and O-GlcNAcylation in breast cancer cells. Treatment with PI3K and mTOR inhibitors reduced OGT protein expression and decreased levels of overall O-GlcNAcylation. In addition, both AKT and mTOR activation is sufficient to elevate OGT/O-GlcNAcylation. Downstream of mTOR, the oncogenic transcription factor c-MYC is required and sufficient for increased OGT protein expression in an RNA-independent manner and c-MYC regulation of OGT mechanistically requires the expression of c-MYC transcriptional target HSP90A. Finally, mammary tumor epithelial cells derived from MMTV-c-myc transgenic mice contain elevated OGT and O-GlcNAcylation and OGT inhibition in this model induces apoptosis. Thus, OGT and O-GlcNAcylation levels are elevated via activation of an mTOR/MYC cascade.

Implications: Evidence indicates OGT as a therapeutic target in c-MYC–amplified cancers. Mol Cancer Res; 13(5); 923–33. ©2015 AACR.
Remarks upon the Term Stereotaxy: A Linguistic and Historical Note
Authors: Grunert Sr. Peter , Keiner Doerthe , Oertel Joachim
Published: February 2015

The correct explanation of the term ‘stereotaxy' is linguistically not self-evident because the Greek term stereon means not spatial but ‘hard' or ‘solid'. The aim of our study was to clarify the term stereotaxy historically and linguistically. We carried out our study by reviewing the neurosurgical and ancient Greek literature. The term stereotaxy is composed of two ancient Greek words: stereon and taxis. Stereon was used in particular as a technical term for geometrical solids in Greek mathematics. This term can be traced back to Platon and Euclid in the 4th and 3rd century BC, respectively. Only in this sense of the word does stereon in stereotaxy actually mean ‘spatial' or ‘3-dimensional'. Taxis is derived from the verb tattein(τάττειν) with the meaning ‘to position'. The terms ‘stereotaxis' and ‘stereotaxic apparatus' were introduced by Clarke and Horsley in 1908 to denote a method for the precise positioning of electrodes into the deep cerebellar nuclei of apes. The target in space was defined by 3 distances in relation to 3 orthogonal planes. Although this concept corresponded exactly to x-, y- and z-coordinates in a cartesian coordinate system, Clarke never used the concept of coordinates. The intuitive explanation of the term stereotaxy as spatial positioning is correct, but linguistically more complex than would be expected.