bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generation maintenance scheduling using improved binary particle swarm optimisation considering aging failures
Authors: Suresh K. , Kumarappan N.
Published: August 2013

This study presents a coordinated deterministic and stochastic framework for maintenance scheduling (MS) of generators, using improved binary particle swarm optimisation (IBPSO). Fundamental concern of MS is to reduce the generator failures and to extend the generator lifespan, thereby increases the system reliability. The IBPSO finds an optimal schedule for the generators and overcome the drawbacks of the conventional methods. The objective of this study is to reduce the loss of load probability and minimising the annual supply reserve ratio deviation for a power system, which are considered as a measure of power system reliability. Moreover, in this study the impacts of aging failures of the generators are considered in order to calculate the unavailability of power system which is modelled using the Weibull distribution. The proposed algorithm is tested on IEEE reliability test system. Comprehensive study has also been carried out in the context of Kerala (India) power system. It can accomplish a significant levelisation in the reliability indices over the maintenance planning period and demonstrates the potential to solve the MS problem. The numerical results are obtained using the proposed method, which outperforms other compared techniques such as genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimisation, binary particle swarm optimisation methods and conventional methods.
Fuzzy security constraints for unit commitment with outages
Authors: Yu Peng , Venkatesh Bala
Published: August 2013

Transmission systems of power systems face risk of emergency transmission contingency and line outages. Proper optimisation tools are required to schedule generation during emergency conditions and to be able to study the effect of the transmission line outages. This study proposes a successive mixed integer linear programming (MILP) method with fuzzy security constraints for solving the AC Security Constrained Unit Commitment (AC‐SCUC) challenge with transmission line outages. A linear formulation of AC‐SCUC challenge is created resulting in an MILP model. This MILP model is transformed into a robust fuzzy MILP model that overcomes infeasibility arising from line outages. This fuzzy MILP model is set up and solved successively using MILP technique whereas updating both continuous and integer variables making the proposed algorithm efficient. The proposed method is tested on 6‐bus, IEEE 57‐bus, and IEEE 118‐bus systems to demonstrate its capabilities and benefits.
Optimal power flow algorithm and analysis in distribution system considering distributed generation
Authors: Sheng Wanxing , Liu Ke‐yan , Cheng Sheng
Published: August 2013

This study investigates the optimal power flow (OPF) problem for distribution networks with the integration of distributed generation (DG). By considering the objectives of minimal line loss, minimal voltage deviation and maximum DG active power output, the proposed OPF formulation is a multi‐object optimisation problem. Through normalisation of each objective function, the multi‐objective optimisation is transformed to single‐objective optimisation. To solve such a non‐convex problem, the trust‐region sequential quadratic programming (TRSQP) method is proposed, which iteratively approximates the OPF by a quadratic programming with the trust‐region guidance. The TRSQP utilises the sensitivity analysis to approximate all the constraints with linear ones, which will reduce the optimisation scale. Active set method is utilised in TRSQP to solve quadratic programming sub‐problem. Numerical tests on IEEE 33‐, PG&E 69‐ and actual 292‐, 588‐, 1180‐bus systems show the applicability of the proposed method, and comparisons with the primal–dual interior point method and sequential linear programming method are provided. The initialisation and convergence condition of the proposed method are also discussed. The computational result indicates that the proposed algorithm for DG control optimisation in distribution system is feasible and effective.
Tri‐band bandpass filters using modified tri‐section stepped impedance resonator with improved selectivity and wide upper stopband
Authors: Ghatak Rowdra , Pal Manimala , Sarkar Pankaj , Aditya Amit Kumar , Poddar Dipak Ranjan
Published: August 2013

This study presents tri‐band bandpass filters using two variant designs based on tri‐section stepped impedance resonators (SIR) to achieve passband selectivity. The passbands are centred about 2.4, 3.5 and 5.5 GHz, respectively. The first design pertains to an asymmetric stepped impedance stub‐loaded tri‐section SIR and the second one consists of embedded SIR. Both the techniques contribute in improving the selectivity by inserting transmission zero between first passband and second passband. With a simple extension of one of the input/output coupling feed lines transmission zeros are inserted between second and third passband. The filter exhibits a wide stopband till 10 GHz because of, cascading with the feed line, a low‐pass filter with upper cutoff at 6.4 GHz. The passband insertion loss is within 2 dB. The group delay excursion for both the developed filters for the three passband suggests linearity of phase. Fabricated prototypes for both the variants are realised with simulated and measured results in good agreement.
Simplified skin‐effect formulation for power transmission lines
Authors: Monteiro José Humberto A. , Costa Eduardo Coelho M. , Pinto André Jinno G. , Kurokawa Sérgio , Gatous Omar Mohamed O. , Pissolato José
Published: August 2013

This study presents a simplified formulation to calculate the skin effect on transmission lines wires. The methodology is developed from the solution of the time‐domain Maxwell's wave equations whose frequency‐domain solutions are obtained using Fourier transforms. Results obtained from the proposed formulation are compared with those calculated using the conventional method based on the approach by Bessel functions. The proposed skin‐effect formulation is also validated based on electromagnetic transients simulations in the time domain considering a conventional 69‐kV transmission system.
The Meloidae (Coleoptera) of Australasia: a generic review, descriptions of new taxa, and a challenge to the current definition of subfamilies posed by exceptional variation in male genitalia
Authors: Bologna M. A. , Turco F. , Pinto J. D.
Published: August 2013

The seven Australasian genera of blister beetles (Coleoptera : Meloidae : Nemognathinae) are reviewed. Included are a key to genera, generic synopses and descriptions of two new genera of Nemognathini, Australozonitis and Pulchrazonitis, as well as a new monotypic tribe Palaestrini, which features a bauplan of male genitalia unique not only to the subfamily Nemognathinae but to the entire family. The genus Palaestra is redefined to include several Australasian, Asian and African species previously assigned to Zonitis. Exceptional variation of male genitalia encountered in the Palaestrini challenges current subfamily definitions, which are partly based on male genitalic structure and correlated sexual behaviour. Generic synopses include synonyms, type species, number of species, geographic distribution, significant references on taxonomy, life history and morphology, and additional notes. Forty-six new combinations are proposed for species previously in Zonitis. Distribution and relationship of tribes within the Nemognathinae, as well as the biogeography of the Australasian Meloidae are outlined and discussed.
A non-independent energy-based multiple sequence alignment improves prediction of transcription factor binding sites
Authors: Salama Rafik A. , Stekel Dov J.
Published: August 2013

Motivation: Multiple sequence alignments (MSAs) are usually scored under the assumption that the sequences being aligned have evolved by common descent. Consequently, the differences between sequences reflect the impact of insertions, deletions and mutations. However, non-coding DNA binding sequences, such as transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs), are frequently not related by common descent, and so the existing alignment scoring methods are not well suited for aligning such sequences.

Results: We present a novel multiple MSA methodology that scores TFBS DNA sequences by including the interdependence of neighboring bases. We introduced two variants supported by different underlying null hypotheses, one statistically and the other thermodynamically generated. We assessed the alignments through their performance in TFBS prediction; both methods show considerable improvements when compared with standard MSA algorithms. Moreover, the thermodynamically generated null hypothesis outperforms the statistical one due to improved stability in the base stacking free energy of the alignment. The thermodynamically generated null hypothesis method can be downloaded from http://sourceforge.net/projects/msa-edna/

Contact:  dov.stekel@nottingham.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Education in times of fiscal constraints and globalization
Authors: BenDavid‐Hadar Iris
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The global age is characterized by demographic changes that challenge the feasibility of democratic states’ redistribution mechanisms. This paper aims to rethink the strategies commonly used by states (via their resource allocation to education) to promote social cohesiveness and competitiveness, and to suggest an alternative strategy. The purpose of this paper is to provide useful insights into the relationships between education, social cohesiveness, and competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The common strategies utilized to promote social cohesiveness and competitiveness via alternative allocation methods are analyzed and the theories of political philosophies underlying these strategies are discussed. Additionally, an empirical analysis carried out using OLS regressions in order to explore the relationships among a state's future cohesiveness and competitiveness, its SES, and the global demographic changes.

Findings

Results reveal that a state's future cohesiveness may be predicted by the demographic diversity of its student population and its interaction with SES. Furthermore, a state's future competitiveness may be predicted by its SES.

Originality/value

The paper develops and suggests an alternative allocation mechanism, based on a comparative perspective of justice, as an innovative strategy to achieving both state cohesiveness and competitiveness. This strategy can be used by democratic states aimed at improving future competitiveness and, at the same time, to maintain their social cohesiveness.
Managing and improving service quality in higher education
Authors: Sharabi Moshe
Published: August 2013

Purpose

In today's environment, higher education (HE) institutions need to become more efficient and participate in a competitive global market where client expectations are continually rising. In this new reality, quality is critical for success. While the economic benefits of quality have been long established, many HE institutions still ignore them at their own risk. This is especially true for service quality and this paper will focus on HE service quality management and improvement. This paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper implements Schneider and Bowen's model of the three tiers of service organizations and service quality management and improvement methods, on HE institutions.

Findings

An analysis of the service process within HE institutions reveals that the quality of service given to the customer tier (the students) by the boundary tier (all the employees who have contact with the students) is greatly dependent on the coordination tier (top HE management and its various departments). In this service chain, there are several problems and pitfalls that prevent the enhancement of service quality.

Practical implications

In light of the three tiers of service model, the paper discusses practical implications and focuses on recommendations how to manage and improve service quality in HE.

Originality/value

The paper presents a comprehensive approach for managing and improving the service quality chain while addressing the integration between the coordination, boundary and customer tiers, with an emphasis on meeting students' needs and expectations.
Parsing religiosity, guilt and materialism on consumer ethics
Authors: Bakar Abou , Lee Richard , Hazarina Hashim Noor
Published: August 2013

Purpose

– This study examines the differential influence of religiosity, materialism and guilt on consumer ethical judgment. It further investigates how the influence may differ across two religiosity dimensions (intrinsic and extrinsic) and two types of unethical behaviour (active and passive).

Design/methodology/approach

– A quasi-experimental approach assigned Pakistani university students randomly to two groups. One group (n=144) answered a survey regarding an active unethical behaviour (changing price tag), while the other (n=123) answered a similar survey but regarding a passive unethical behaviour (given and pocketing surplus change). This paper used projective technique to help reduce respondents' sensitiveness to the two scenarios. The data was methodologically analysed and fitted using structural equation modelling.

Findings

– Religiosity does not influence ethical judgment directly, but is mediated by guilt. As expected, materialism negatively determines ethical judgment, and the influence is stronger with active than with passive unethical behaviour. Materialism influences ethical judgment more (less) than guilt does when unethical behaviour is active (passive). Religiosity stems more from intrinsic than extrinsic dimension regardless of the unethical-behaviour type.

Research limitation/implications

– Overall, this study highlights that the effects of religiosity on consumer ethics is not straightforward in that the relationship cannot be fully understood without accounting for the role of guilt and materialism, as well as the types of religiosity and ethical behaviour. Significant academic and managerial implications are presented.

Originality/value

– This is an initial study on consumer ethics to consider the differential influence of religiosity, materialism and guilt across different religiosity dimensions and unethical behaviour. The context of a Muslim market is also under-researched compared to Western markets.
Biological Flora of the British Isles: Pulmonaria officinalis
Authors: Meeus Sofie , Brys Rein , Honnay Olivier , Jacquemyn Hans
Published: August 2013

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Pulmonaria officinalis L. (Common Lungwort) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characteristics, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Pulmonaria officinalis is a distylous, perennial rosette hemicryptophyte that is naturalized in Britain. It occurs predominantly in the understory of broadleaved, mixed, open woods rich in hornbeam, beech and oak, but is has also been recorded from hedges, banks alongside streams, (sunken) roadsides, built‐up areas, gardens, rubbish tips, yew woodland and, less frequently, coniferous woodland. Its native range stretches from southern Sweden, in the north, to northern Italy, in the south, and from western Germany to Poland and Lithuania. It is most common in central Europe.

Pulmonaria officinalis reproduces both by sexual and vegetative means. The underground parts consist of a slowly creeping rhizome with adventitious roots. Despite the presence of an elaiosome that is attractive to ants that likely facilitates seed dispersal, populations often show a significant fine‐scale spatial genetic structure and small neighbourhood sizes.

The leaves and flowering stalks are covered in hairs of varied length and stiffness, and stems and inflorescences are sparsely covered with glandular hairs. Flowers of P. officinalis are heterostylous, with distinct pin and thrum morphs. The corolla varies from purple, violet or blue to shades of pink and red, or sometimes white. The flowers are mainly pollinated by solitary bees and bumblebees.

Pulmonaria officinalis has significantly expanded its distribution in the British Isles since the 18th century, especially in southern England. P. officinalis is currently not regarded as threatened in Europe. Nonetheless, small, isolated populations of the species often show reduced reproductive success and lower genetic diversity, potentially affecting their long‐term survival. Preservation of local habitat conditions by regular opening of the forest canopy and restoration of gene flow among populations are required to maintain viable populations of P. officinalis in the long term.
Real Estate Mutual Funds: Herding, Momentum Trading and Performance
Authors: Ro SeungHan , Gallimore Paul
Published: August 2013

This study jointly examines herding, momentum trading and performance in real estate mutual funds (REMFs). We do this using trading and performance data for 159 REMFs across the period 1998–2008. In support of the view that Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) stocks are relatively more transparent, we find that stock herding by REMFs is lower in REIT stocks than other stock. Herding behavior in our data reveals a tendency for managers to sell winners, reflective of the “disposition effect.” We find low overall levels of REMF momentum trading, but further evidence of the disposition effect when momentum trading is segregated into buy–sell dimensions. We test the robustness of our analysis using style analysis, and by reference to the level of fund dividend distribution. Our results for this are consistent with our conjecture about the role of transparency in herding, but they provide no new insights in relation to the momentum‐trading dimensions of our analysis. Summarizing what are complex interrelationships, we find that neither herding nor momentum trading are demonstrably superior investment strategies for REMFs.
Austral Thysanoptera: 100 years of progress
Authors: Mound Laurence A
Published: August 2013

An overview of the present state of knowledge of the insect order Thysanoptera in the four southern continents is provided. Knowledge of thrips biology and host associations has increased considerably in Australia, but not in the other three areas. The rich fauna of South America, particularly the southern areas, remains poorly explored, and faunal relationships across the Austral regions are not well documented.
Targeting the ABCG2‐overexpressing multidrug resistant (MDR) cancer cells by PPARγ agonists
Authors: To Kenneth K W , Tomlinson Brian
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Multidrug resistance (MDR), usually mediated by overexpression of efflux transporters such as P‐gp, ABCG2 and/or MRP1, remains a major obstacle hindering successful cancer chemotherapy. There has been great interest in the development of inhibitors towards these transporters to circumvent resistance. However, since the inhibition of transporter is not specific to cancer cells, a decrease in the cytotoxic drug dosing may be needed to prevent excess toxicity, thus undermining the potential benefit brought about by a drug efflux inhibitor. The design of potent MDR modulators specific towards resistant cancer cells and devoid of drug‐drug interactions will be needed to effect MDR reversal.

Experimental Approach

Recent evidence suggests that the PTEN/PI3K/Akt pathway may be exploited to alter ABCG2 subcellular localization, thereby circumventing MDR. Three PPARγ agonists (telmisartan, pioglitazone and rosiglitazone) that have been used in the clinics were tested for their effect on the PTEN/PI3K/Akt pathway and possible reversal of ABCG2‐mediated drug resistance.

Key Results

The PPARγ agonists were found to be weak ABCG2 inhibitors by drug efflux assay. They were also shown to elevate the reduced PTEN expression in a resistant and ABCG2‐overexpressing cell model, which inhibit the PI3K‐Akt pathway and lead to the relocalization of ABCG2 from the plasma membrane to the cytoplasma, thus apparently circumventing the ABCG2‐mediated MDR.

Conclusions and Implications

Since this PPARγ/PTEN/PI3K/Akt pathway regulating ABCG2 is only functional in drug‐resistant cancer cells with PTEN loss, the PPARγ agonists identified may represent promising agents targeting resistant cells for MDR reversal.
Phase II feasibility study of preoperative chemotherapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hara Hiroki , Tahara Makoto , Daiko Hiroyuki , Kato Ken , Igaki Hiroyasu , Kadowaki Shigenori , Tanaka Yoichi , Hamamoto Yasuo , Matsushita Hisayuki , Nagase Michitaka , Hosoya Yoshinori
Published: August 2013

The combination of docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil (DCF) as preoperative treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been investigated. We carried out a multicenter phase II feasibility study of preoperative chemotherapy with DCF for ESCC. Patients with clinical stage II/III ESCC (International Union Against Cancer TNM classification system, 6th edition) were eligible. Chemotherapy consisted of i.v. docetaxel (70–75 mg/m2) and cisplatin (70–75 mg/m2) on day 1, and continuous infusion of fluorouracil (750 mg/m2/day) on days 1–5. Antibiotic prophylaxis on days 5–15 was mandatory. This regimen was repeated every 3 weeks with a maximum of three cycles allowed. After completion of chemotherapy, esophagectomy with extended lymphadenectomy was carried out. The primary endpoint was the completion rate of protocol treatment. Forty‐two eligible patients were enrolled. During chemotherapy, the most common grade 3 or 4 toxicities were neutropenia (83%), anorexia (7%), and stomatitis (5%). Forty‐one (98%) patients underwent surgery. The completion rate of protocol treatment was 90.5% (38/42). No treatment‐related death was observed and the incidence of operative morbidity was tolerable. According to RECIST, the overall response rate after the completion of DCF was 64.3%. Pathological complete response was achieved in 17%. The estimated 2‐year progression‐free survival and overall survival were 74.5% and 88.0%, respectively. Although these data are preliminary, preoperative DCF was well tolerated. Antitumor activity was highly promising and warrants further investigation. This trial was registered with University Hospital Medical Information Network (no. UMIN000002396).
Inguinal hernia containing a kidney with a duplicated system: An exceptionally rare case
Authors: Farrell Michael Ryan , Coogan Christopher , Hibbeln John , Millikan Keith , Benson Jonas
Published: August 2013

An inguinal hernia is a commonly encountered surgical case, with multiple unusual contents being reported. We present an exceptionally rare case of an inguinal hernia. Computed tomography imaging of the 62‐year‐old male patient showed a large left inguinal hernia extending into the left scrotum that contained a duplicated left kidney. There was an associated large left hydrocele and incidental non‐obstructive nephrolithiasis. Left nephropexy, left orchiectomy, and repair of the incarcerated left inguinal hernia with mesh placement via a preperitoneal (retroperitoneal) approach were performed. The patient was discharged to home on post‐operative day 5 and the post‐operative course was uneventful. We discuss a possible mechanism for this rare event.
Unexpected Imidazoquinoxalinone Annulation Products in the Photoinitiated Reaction of Substituted‐3‐Methyl‐Quinoxalin‐2‐Ones with N‐Phenylglycine
Authors: De la Fuente Julio R. , Cañete Álvaro , Jullian Carolina , Saitz Claudio , Aliaga Christian
Published: August 2013

Photoinduced electron transfer between N‐phenylglycine (NPG) and electronically excited triplets of 7‐substituted‐3‐methyl‐quinoxalin‐2‐ones in acetonitrile generate the respective ion radical pair, where by decarboxylation the phenyl‐amino‐alkyl radical, PhNHCH2•, is generated. This radical reacts with the 3‐methyl‐quinoxalin‐2‐ones ground states, leading to the product 2. Other, unexpected, 7‐substituted‐1,2,3,3a‐tetrahydro‐3a‐methyl‐2‐phenylimidazo[1,5‐a]quinoxalin‐4(5H)‐ones, annulation products, 3a–f, were generated; likely by the addition of two PhNHCH2• radicals, to positions 3 and 4 of the quinoxalin‐2‐ones. The reaction mechanism includes a photoinduced one electron transfer initiation step, propagation steps involving radical intermediates and NPG with radical chain termination steps that lead to the respective products 2a–f and 3a–f and NPG by‐products. The proposed mechanism accounts for the strong dependency found for the initial photoconsumption quantum yields on the electron‐withdrawing power of the substituent. Therefore, photolysis of common reactants widely used such as NPG and substituted quinoxalin‐2‐ones may provide a simple synthetic way to the unusual, unreported tetrahydro‐imidazoquinoxalinones 3a–f.
Limit Load Evaluation Using the mα-Tangent Multiplier in Conjunction With Elastic Modulus Adjustment Procedure
Authors: Mahmood S. L. , Seshadri R.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, the mα-tangent multiplier is used in conjunction with the elastic modulus adjustment procedure (EMAP) for limit load determination. This technique is applied to a number of mechanical components possessing different kinematic redundancies. By specifying spatial variations in the elastic modulus, numerous sets of statically admissible and kinematically admissible stress and strain distributions are generated, and limit loads for practical components are then determined using the mα-tangent method. The procedure ensures sufficiently accurate limit loads within a reasonable number of iterations. Results are compared with the inelastic finite element results and are found to be in satisfactory agreement.
Cocaine-induced leg ulceration
Authors: Shawwa Khaled , Alraiyes Abdul Hamid , Eisa Naseem , Alraies M Chadi
Published: August 2013

A 48-year-old woman presented with a red, pruritic and painful skin rash on her legs bilaterally after she snorted cocaine. This was associated with fever and cough. Physical examination showed large violaceous plaques and large flaccid bullae, involving bilateral lower extremities. Blood work showed neutropoenia with absolute neutrophil count of 0.64×109 cells/L. Antinuclear antibody, perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody and anti-double-stranded DNA were positive. Biopsy showed thrombogenic vasculopathy which is consistent mainly with levamisole ingestion that was reported with levamisole ingestion. The patient was counselled to stop cocaine misuse and treated with skin emollients and antibiotics for the pneumonia that was discovered on the chest X-ray. Skin ulcers improved and she was discharged in stable condition. Ten days after discharge, she was readmitted with new lesions and worsening necrotic ulcers from the old lesions. The patient admitted to snorting cocaine again a few days after being discharged.
The value of experimental models of colitis in predicting efficacy of biological therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Valatas Vassilis , Vakas Michael , Kolios George
Published: August 2013

During the last decade, biological therapies have an increasing share in the modern therapeutics of various diseases including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Animal models of IBD have often been used to identify the targets of biological therapies, to test their relevance to disease pathogenesis, to assess their therapeutic efficacy in vivo, and to check for drug toxicity. In the field of inflammatory diseases the majority of biologics under development have failed to reach the clinic. This review examines the ability of preclinical data from animal models of IBD to predict success or failure of biologics in human IBD. Specifically, it describes the murine models of IBD, the mechanism of disease induction, the phenotype of the disease, its relevance to human IBD, and the specific immunological features of disease pathogenesis in each model and mainly compares the results of the phase II and III trials of biologics in IBD with preclinical data obtained from studies in animal models. Finally, it examines the possible reasons for low success in translation from bench to bedside and offers some suggestions to improve translation rates.
Impact of Age on the Management of Primary Melanoma Patients
Authors: Fleming Nathaniel H. , Tian Jiaying , Vega-Saenz de Miera Eleazar , Gold Heidi , Darvishian Farbod , Pavlick Anna C. , Berman Russell S. , Shapiro Richard L. , Polsky David , Osman Iman
Published: August 2013

Objectives: Age is an understudied factor when considering treatment options for melanoma. Here, we examine the impact of age on primary melanoma treatment in a prospective cohort of patients. Methods: We used logistic regression models to examine the associations between age and initial treatment, using recurrence and melanoma-specific survival as endpoints. Results: 444 primary melanoma patients were categorized into three groups by age at diagnosis: 19-45 years (24.3%), 46-70 (50.2%), and 71-95 (25.5%). In multivariate models, older patients experienced a higher risk of recurrence (hazard ratio 3.34, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.53-7.25; p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in positive biopsy margin rates or extent of surgical margins across age groups. Patients in the middle age group were more likely to receive adjuvant therapy than those in the older group (odds ratio 2.78, 95% CI 1.19-6.45; p = 0.02) and showed a trend to longer disease-free survival when receiving adjuvant therapy (p = 0.09). Conclusion: Our data support age as an independent negative prognostic factor in melanoma. Our data suggest that age does not affect primary surgical treatment but may affect decisions of whether or not patients receive postoperative treatment(s). Further work is needed to better understand the biological variables affecting treatment decisions and efficacy in older patients.
Simultaneous measurement of thrombin and plasmin generation to assess the interplay between coagulation and fibrinolysis
Authors: Matsumoto Tomoko , Shima Midori , Nogami Keiji
Published: August 2013

summary

Normal haemostasis is maintained by a controlled balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis, involving thrombin and plasmin the respective key enzymes. Simultaneous evaluation of both enzymes facilitates, therefore, an overall understanding of normal and pathological haemostasis. Combined thrombin and plasmin generation (T/P-G) assays have been recently described, and we have adapted the technique to investigate the interplay between coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with various haemostatic disorders. Our modified T/P-G was initiated by the addition of a mixture of optimised lower concentrations of tissue factor and tissue-type plasminogen activator. Thrombin generation (TG) and plasmin generation (PG) were monitored simultaneously using individual fluorescent substrates in separate microtitre wells. The relationship between coagulation and fibrinolysis was demonstrated by analysing the effects of thrombin inhibitors, activated protein C and thrombomodulin. The most evident impairments in TG were observed with plasma samples deficient of coagulation factors participating in the prothrombinase complex. Defects in PG were observed with deficiencies of factor (F)V, FX, fibrinogen, and plasminogen. TG appeared to be a prerequisite for the initiation of PG, and overall PG was governed by fibrinogen concentration. TG in patients with haemophilia A correlated with levels of FVIII activity, but there was no significant relationship between PG and FVIII:C, confirming that the abnormal haemostasis in haemophilia A results in a severe imbalance between coagulation and fibrinolysis. The findings demonstrate that global haemostasis depends on a sensitive balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis, and that the modified T/P-G assay could provide an enhanced understanding of haemorrhage and thrombosis in clinical practice.
Neuropsychological Effects of MRI-Detected Brain Lesions After Left Atrial Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Herm Juliane , Fiebach Jochen B. , Koch Lydia , Kopp Ute A. , Kunze Claudia , Wollboldt Christian , Brunecker Peter , Schultheiss Heinz-Peter , Schirdewan Alexander , Endres Matthias , Haeusler Karl Georg
Published: August 2013

Background—

MRI-detected brain lesions are common after left atrial catheter ablation for symptomatic atrial fibrillation. The clinical relevance of these acute ischemic lesions is not fully understood, but ablation-related cerebral injury could contribute to cognitive dysfunction.

Methods and Results—

In the prospective Mesh Ablator versus Cryoballoon Pulmonary Vein Ablation of Symptomatic Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (MACPAF) study, serial 3-T brain MRIs and neuropsychological assessment were performed to analyze the rate of ablation-related brain lesions and their effect on cognitive function. Thirty-seven patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (median age, 63.0 [interquartile range, 57–68] years; 41% female; median CHA
2
DS
2
VASc score 2 [interquartile range, 1–3]) underwent 41 ablation procedures according to study criteria. None of these patients had overt neurological deficits after ablation. High-resolution diffusion-weighted imaging, performed within 48 hours after ablation, showed that new brain lesions (range, 1–17) were present in 16 (43.2%) patients after 18 (43.9%) left atrial catheter ablation procedures. Follow-up MRI at 6 months (median, 6.5; interquartile range, 6–7) revealed that 7 (12.5%) of the 56 total acute brain lesions after ablation formed a persistent glial scar in 5 (31.3%) patients. Large diffusion-weighted imaging lesions and a corresponding fluid-attenuated inversion recovery lesion 48 hours after ablation predicted lesion persistence on 6-month follow-up. Neither persistent brain lesions nor the ablation procedure itself had a significant effect on attention or executive functions, short-term memory, or verbal and nonverbal learning after 6 months.

Conclusions—

Ablation-related acute ischemic brain lesions persist to some extent but do not cause cognitive impairment 6 months after the ablation procedure.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01061931.
Deficient eNOS Phosphorylation Is a Mechanism for Diabetic Vascular Dysfunction Contributing to Increased Stroke Size
Authors: Li Qian , Atochin Dmitriy , Kashiwagi Satoshi , Earle John , Wang Annie , Mandeville Emiri , Hayakawa Kazuhide , d’Uscio Livius V. , Lo Eng H. , Katusic Zvonimir , Sessa William , Huang Paul L.
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

Phosphorylation of eNOS, an important post-translational modulator of its enzymatic activity, is reduced in diabetes mellitus. We hypothesized that modulation of eNOS phosphorylation could overcome diabetic vascular dysfunction and improves the outcome to stroke.

Methods—

We used the db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes mellitus. We mated db/db mice with eNOS knock-in mice that carry single amino acid mutations at the S1176 phosphorylation site; the phosphomimetic SD mutation (serine replaced by aspartate) shows increased eNOS enzymatic activity, whereas the unphosphorylatable SA mutation (serine replaced by alanine) shows decreased eNOS activity. We characterized the vascular anatomy, baseline physiological parameters, and vascular reactivity. We used the middle cerebral artery occlusion model of stroke and measured infarct volume and neurological deficits.

Results—

db/db mice showed diminished eNOS phosphorylation at S1176. eNOS SD and SA mutations do not change the vascular anatomy at the Circle of Willis, brain capillary density, heart rate, or arterial blood gases of db/db mice. The eNOS SD mutation, but not the SA mutation, lowers blood pressure and improves vascular reactivity to acetylcholine in db/db mice. The eNOS SD mutation reduces stroke size and neurological deficit after middle cerebral artery occlusion.

Conclusions—

Diminished eNOS phosphorylation is a mechanism of vascular dysfunction in db/db mice. We show here that modulation of the eNOS S1176 phosphorylation site in db/db mice is associated with improved vascular reactivity and improved outcome to stroke after middle cerebral artery occlusion.
English Law in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rogowska Anna
Published: August 2013

Abstract

This article argues that it is important for Saudi law graduates to be familiar with certain aspects of English law (alongside Shariʿah and Saudi laws). Accordingly, it firstly discusses the importance of English law in international business practice and then briefly presents its current use in Saudi Arabia, and the Middle East in general. This study is mainly based on teaching and studying English law at Dar al-Hekma, a private college for women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It examines how Dar al-Hekma students in particular can benefit in their future practice from studying English law.
Sporting Mega-Events and South-to-South Security Exchanges: A Comparative Study of South Africa and Brazil
Authors: McMichael Christopher
Published: August 2013

Summary

The FIFA World Cup and the Summer Olympics are the most prestigious major sporting events in the world, and host governments implement security measures to match this stature. While global concerns about terrorism have led to a dramatic upsurge in the extent of security measures, the perceived threat of urban crime is becoming an increasingly prominent cause for apprehension. This has been of particular importance to South Africa’s recent 2010 World Cup and for the unprecedented sequential hosting of both the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. In both contexts, security has been used as a statement of intent: the respective states have instrumentalized mega-events as an international platform to signal their ability to secure urban environments. This article will focus on a comparative study of areas in which the respective security preparations for the World Cup in Brazil have overlapped with the measures deployed in South Africa. Using examples of how Brazilian authorities have sought advice from their South Africa counterparts, it will suggest that both countries have adopted comparable risk aversion strategies.
South Africa’s Engagement in Sports Diplomacy: The Successful Hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
Authors: e Castro Andreia Soares
Published: August 2013

Summary

This article begins by recognizing the importance of sport in South African history, before turning to South Africa’s vision and strategy, as articulated around and beyond the successful hosting of mega-events, particularly the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the first World Cup to be held on the African continent. The article suggests that mega-events are an important stage and priority of a broader and longer-term strategy of enhancing South Africa’s soft power, prestige and visibility. In this context, sport and mega-events are important foreign policy tools and have greatly benefited South Africa, the African continent and the international relations system. Using South Africa as a case study, this article explores the concept of sports diplomacy — that is, the use of sports as an instrument for furthering foreign policy goals, causes or interests — and argues that it is a significant and a rising source of soft power.
Web Apollo: a web-based genomic annotation editing platform
Authors: Lee Eduardo , Helt Gregg A , Reese Justin T , Munoz-Torres Monica C , Childers Chris P , Buels Robert M , Stein Lincoln , Holmes Ian H , Elsik Christine G , Lewis Suzanna E
Published: August 2013

Web Apollo is the first instantaneous, collaborative genomic annotation editor available on the web. One of the natural consequences following from current advances in sequencing technology is that there are more and more researchers sequencing new genomes. These researchers require tools to describe the functional features of their newly sequenced genomes. With Web Apollo researchers can use any of the common browsers (for example, Chrome or Firefox) to jointly analyze and precisely describe the features of a genome in real time, whether they are in the same room or working from opposite sides of the world.
The outcome of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing in patients aged < 50 years up to 14 years post-operatively
Authors: Matharu G. S. , McBryde C. W. , Pynsent W. B. , Pynsent P. B. , Treacy R. B. C.
Published: August 2013

We report the long-term survival and functional outcome of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) in patients aged < 50 years at operation, and explore the factors affecting survival. Between 1997 and 2006, a total of 447 BHRs were implanted in 393 patients (mean age 41.5 years (14.9 to 49.9)) by one designing surgeon. The mean follow-up was 10.1 years (5.2 to 14.7), with no loss to follow-up. In all, 16 hips (3.6%) in 15 patients were revised, giving an overall cumulative survival of 96.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 93.7 to 98.3) at ten years and 94.1% (95% CI 84.9 to 97.3) at 14 years. Using aseptic revision as the endpoint, the survival for men with primary osteoarthritis (n = 195) was 100% (95% CI 100 to 100) at both ten years and 14 years, and in women with primary osteoarthritis (n = 109) it was 96.1% (95% CI 90.1 to 99.9) at ten years and 91.2% (95% CI 68.6 to 98.7) at 14 years. Female gender (p = 0.047) and decreasing femoral head size (p = 0.044) were significantly associated with an increased risk of revision. The median Oxford hip score (OHS, modified as a percentage with 100% indicating worst outcome) at last follow-up was 4.2% (46 of 48; interquartile range (IQR) 0% to 24%) and the median University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) score was 6.0 (IQR 5 to 8). Men had significantly better OHS (p = 0.02) and UCLA scores (p = 0.01) than women. The BHR provides excellent survival and functional results in men into the second decade, with good results achieved in appropriately selected women.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1172–7.
The viability of cells obtained using the Reamer–Irrigator–Aspirator system and in bone graft from the iliac crest
Authors: Uppal H. S. , Peterson B. E. , Misfeldt M. L. , Della Rocca G. J. , Volgas D. A. , Murtha Y. M. , Stannard J. P. , Choma T. J. , Crist B. D.
Published: August 2013

We hypothesised that cells obtained via a Reamer–Irrigator–Aspirator (RIA) system retain substantial osteogenic potential and are at least equivalent to graft harvested from the iliac crest. Graft was harvested using the RIA in 25 patients (mean age 37.6 years (18 to 68)) and from the iliac crest in 21 patients (mean age 44.6 years (24 to 78)), after which ≥ 1 g of bony particulate graft material was processed from each. Initial cell viability was assessed using Trypan blue exclusion, and initial fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis for cell lineage was performed. After culturing the cells, repeat FACS analysis for cell lineage was performed and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for osteocalcin, and Alizarin red staining to determine osteogenic potential. Cells obtained via RIA or from the iliac crest were viable and matured into mesenchymal stem cells, as shown by staining for the specific mesenchymal antigens CD90 and CD105. For samples from both RIA and the iliac crest there was a statistically significant increase in bone production (both p < 0.001), as demonstrated by osteocalcin production after induction.

Medullary autograft cells harvested using RIA are viable and osteogenic. Cell viability and osteogenic potential were similar between bone grafts obtained from both the RIA system and the iliac crest.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1269–74.
Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1: clinical features and management in infancy
Authors: Amin N , Alvi N S , Barth J H , Field H P , Finlay E , Tyerman K , Frazer S , Savill G , Wright N P , Makaya T , Mushtaq T
Published: August 2013

Type 1 pseudohypoaldosteronism (PHA) is a rare heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by resistance to aldosterone action. There is resultant salt wasting in the neonatal period, with hyperkalaemia and metabolic acidosis. Only after results confirm isolated resistance to aldosterone can the diagnosis of type 1 PHA be confidently made. Type 1 PHA can be further classified into i) renal type 1 (autosomal dominant (AD)) and ii) multiple target organ defect/systemic type 1 (autosomal recessive (AR)). The aim of this case series was to characterise the mode of presentation, management and short-term clinical outcomes of patients with PHA type 1. Case notes of newly diagnosed infants presenting with PHA type 1 were reviewed over a 5-year time period. Seven patients were diagnosed with PHA type 1. Initial presentation ranged from 4 to 28 days of age. Six had weight loss as a presenting feature. All subjects had hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia, with elevated renin and aldosterone levels. Five patients have renal PHA type 1 and two patients have systemic PHA type, of whom one has had genetic testing to confirm the AR gene mutation on the SCNN1A gene. Renal PHA type 1 responds well to salt supplementation, whereas management of patients with systemic PHA type 1 proves more difficult as they are likely to get frequent episodes of electrolyte imbalance requiring urgent correction.

Learning points

Patients with type 1 PHA are likely to present in the neonatal period with hyponatraemia, hyperkalaemia and metabolic acidosis and can be diagnosed by the significantly elevated plasma renin activity and aldosterone levels.

The differential diagnosis of type 1 PHA includes adrenal disorders such as adrenal hypoplasia and congenital adrenal hyperplasia; thus, adrenal function including cortisol levels, 17-hydroxyprogesterone and a urinary steroid profile are required. Secondary (transient) causes of PHA may be due to urinary tract infections or renal anomalies; thus, urine culture and renal ultrasound scan are required respectively.

A differentiation between renal and systemic PHA type 1 may be made based on sodium requirements, ease of management of electrolyte imbalance, sweat test results and genetic testing.

Management of renal PHA type 1 is with sodium supplementation, and requirements often decrease with age.

Systemic PHA type 1 requires aggressive and intensive fluid and electrolyte management. Securing an enteral feeding route and i.v. access are essential to facilitate ongoing therapy.

In this area of the UK, the incidence of AD PHA and AR PHA was calculated to be 1:66 000 and 1:166 000 respectively.
Ectopic prolactin secretion secondary to an ovarian tumour
Authors: Gururaj Sowmya , Nisal K , Davies Q , Deen S , McNally P G
Published: August 2013

Ectopic hormone secretion is a well-recognised phenomenon; however, ectopic prolactin secretion is exceptionally rare. Hoffman and colleagues reported the first ever well-documented case of ectopic prolactin secretion secondary to a gonadoblastoma. We report a lady who presented with galactorrhoea and a large ovarian tumour that was found to secrete high levels of prolactin.

Learning points

Aim of this case report is to highlight the occurrence of this condition.

Lack of awareness can often lead to a diagnostic conundrum.