bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DESIGN OF SPIN WAVE FUNCTIONS-BASED LOGIC CIRCUITS
Authors: SHABADI PRASAD , RAJAPANDIAN SANKARA NARAYANAN , KHASANVIS SANTOSH , MORITZ CSABA ANDRAS
Published: September 2012

Over the past few years, several novel nanoscale computing concepts have been proposed as potential post-complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) computing fabrics. In these, key focus is on inventing a faster and lower power alternative to conventional metal oxide semiconductor field effect transators. Instead, we propose a fundamental shift in mindset towards more functional building blocks, replacing simple switches with more sophisticated information encoding and computing based on alternate state variables to achieve a significantly more efficient and compact logic. Specifically, we propose wave computation enabled by magnetic spin wave interactions called as spin wave functions (SPWFs). In SPWFs, computation is based on wave interference and information can be encoded in a wave's phase, amplitude and frequency. In this paper, we provide an update on key fabric concepts and design aspects. Our analysis shows that circuit design choices can have a significant impact on overall fabric/device capabilities required and vice versa. Thereby, we adapt an integrated fabric-circuit exploration methodology. Control schemes for wave streaming and synchronization are also discussed with several SPWF circuit topologies. Our estimations show that significant area and power benefits can be expected for SPWF-based designs versus CMOS. In particular, for a 1-bit adder up to 40X area benefit and up to 304X power consumption reduction may be possible with SPWF-based implementation versus 45 nm CMOS.
Breaking Waves in Deep and Intermediate Waters
Authors: Perlin Marc , Choi Wooyoung , Tian Zhigang
Published: September 2012

Since time immemorial, surface water waves and their subsequent breaking have been studied. Herein we concentrate on breaking surface waves in deep and intermediate water depths. Progress has been made in several areas, including the prediction of their geometry, breaking onset, and especially energy dissipation. Recent progress in the study of geometric properties has evolved such that we can identify possible connections between crest geometry and energy dissipation and its rate. Onset prediction based on the local wave-energy growth rate appears robust, consistent with experiments, although the application of criteria in phase-resolving, deterministic prediction may be limited as calculation of the diagnostic parameter is nontrivial. Parameterization of the dissipation rate has benefited greatly from synergistic field and laboratory investigations, and relationships among the dynamics, kinematics, and the parameterization of the dynamics using geometric properties are now available. Field efforts continue, and although progress has been made, consensus among researchers is limited, in part because of the relatively few studies. Although direct numerical simulations of breaking waves are not yet a viable option, simpler models (e.g., implementation of an eddy viscosity model) have yielded positive results, particularly with regard to energy dissipation.
Large T Antigens of Polyomaviruses: Amazing Molecular Machines
Authors: An Ping , Sáenz Robles Maria Teresa , Pipas James M.
Published: September 2012

The large tumor antigen (T antigen) encoded by simian virus 40 is an amazing molecular machine because it orchestrates viral infection by modulating multiple fundamental viral and cellular processes. T antigen is required for viral DNA replication, transcription, and virion assembly. In addition, T antigen targets multiple cellular pathways, including those that regulate cell proliferation, cell death, and the inflammatory response. Ectopic T antigen expression results in the immortalization and transformation of many cell types in culture and T antigen induces neoplasia when expressed in rodents. The analysis of the mechanisms by which T antigen carries out its many functions has proved to be a powerful way of gaining insights into cell biology. The accelerating pace at which new polyomaviruses are being discovered provides a collection of novel T antigens that, like simian virus 40, can be used to discover and study key cellular regulatory systems.
A Virological View of Innate Immune Recognition
Authors: Iwasaki Akiko
Published: September 2012

The innate immune system uses multiple strategies to detect viral infections. Because all viruses rely on host cells for their synthesis and propagation, the molecular features used to detect viral infections must be unique to viruses and absent from host cells. Research in the past decade has advanced our understanding of various cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic modes of virus recognition. This review examines the innate recognition from the point of view of virus invasion and replication strategies, and places innate sensors in the context of detecting viral genome, replication intermediate, transcriptional by-product, and other viral invasion strategies. On the basis of other unique features common to viral infections, undiscovered areas of virus detection are discussed.
A Cultural Neuroscience Approach to the Biosocial Nature of the Human Brain
Authors: Han Shihui , Northoff Georg , Vogeley Kai , Wexler Bruce E. , Kitayama Shinobu , Varnum Michael E.W.
Published: September 2012

Cultural neuroscience (CN) is an interdisciplinary field that investigates the relationship between culture (e.g., value and belief systems and practices shared by groups) and human brain functions. In this review we describe the origin, aims, and methods of CN as well as its conceptual framework and major findings. We also clarify several misunderstandings of CN research. Finally, we discuss the implications of CN findings for understanding human brain function in sociocultural contexts and novel questions that future CN research should address. By doing so, we hope to provide a clear picture of the CN approach to the human brain and culture and to elucidate the intrinsically biosocial nature of the functional organization of the human brain.
Shifting Gears: Seeking New Approaches for Mind/Brain Mechanisms
Authors: Gazzaniga Michael S.
Published: September 2012

Using an autobiographical approach, I review several animal and human split-brain studies that have led me to change my long-term view on how best to understand mind/brain interactions. Overall, the view is consistent with the idea that complex neural systems, like other complex information processing systems, are highly modular. At the same time, how the modules come to interact and produce unitary goals is unknown. Here, I review the importance of self-cueing in that process of producing unitary goals from disparate functions. The role of self-cueing is demonstrably evident in the human neurologic patient and especially in patients with hemispheric disconnection. When viewed in the context of modularity, it may provide insights into how a highly parallel and distributed brain locally coordinates its activities to produce an apparent unitary output. Capturing and understanding how this is achieved will require shifting gears away from standard linear models and adopting a more dynamical systems view of brain function.
Sexual Prejudice
Authors: Herek Gregory M. , McLemore Kevin A.
Published: September 2012

Despite shifts toward greater acceptance in U.S. public opinion and policy, lesbian, gay, and bisexual people remain widely stigmatized. This article reviews empirical research on sexual prejudice, that is, heterosexuals' internalization of cultural stigma, manifested in the form of negative attitudes toward sexual minorities and same-sex desires and behaviors. After briefly reviewing measurement issues, we discuss linkages between sexual prejudice and religion, gender, sexuality, and related variables, and consider how the cultural institutions encompassing these domains create a social context within which individual expressions of prejudice can meet important psychological needs. These include needs for securing social acceptance, affirming values that are central to one's self-concept, and avoiding anxiety and other negative emotions associated with threats to self-esteem. We conclude by discussing factors that may motivate heterosexuals to reduce their own sexual prejudice, including intergroup contact, as well as avenues for future empirical inquiry.
Selection of events in time enhances activity throughout early visual cortex
Authors: Swallow Khena M. , Makovski Tal , Jiang Yuhong V.
Published: September 2012

Temporal selection poses unique challenges to the perceptual system. Selection is needed to protect goal-relevant stimuli from interference from new sensory input. In addition, contextual information that occurs at the same time as goal-relevant stimuli may be critical for learning. Using fMRI, we characterized how visual cortical regions respond to the temporal selection of auditory and visual stimuli. Critically, we focused on brain regions that are not involved in processing the target itself. Participants pressed a button when they heard a prespecified target tone and did not respond to other tones. Although more attention was directed to auditory input when the target tone was selected, activity in primary visual cortex increased more after target tones than after distractor tones. In contrast to spatial attention, this effect was larger in V1 than in V2 and V3. It was present in regions not typically involved in representing the target stimulus. Additional experiments demonstrated that these effects were not due to multimodal processing, rare targets, or motor responses to the targets. Thus temporal selection of behaviorally relevant stimuli enhances, rather than reduces, activity in perceptual regions involved in processing other information.
Visual Scanning Patterns during the Dimensional Change Card Sorting Task in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Yi Li , Liu Yubing , Li Yunyi , Fan Yuebo , Huang Dan , Gao Dingguo
Published: September 2012

Impaired cognitive flexibility in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been reported in previous literature. The present study explored ASD children’s visual scanning patterns during the Dimensional Change Card Sorting (DCCS) task using eye-tracking technique. ASD and typical developing (TD) children completed the standardized DCCS procedure on the computer while their eye movements were tracked. Behavioral results confirmed previous findings on ASD children’s deficits in executive function. ASD children’s visual scanning patterns also showed some specific underlying processes in the DCCS task compared to TD children. For example, ASD children looked shorter at the correct card in the postswitch phase and spent longer time at blank areas than TD children did. ASD children did not show a bias to the color dimension as TD children did. The correlations between the behavioral performance and eye moments were also discussed.
A Strong Convergence Theorem for Total Asymptotically Pseudocontractive Mappings in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Ding Chuan , Quan Jing
Published: September 2012

Demiclosedness principle for total asymptotically pseudocontractive mappings in Hilbert spaces is established. The strong convergence to a fixed point of total asymptotically pseudocontraction in Hilbert spaces is obtained based on demiclosedness principle, metric projective operator, and hybrid iterative method. The main results presented in this paper extend and improve the corresponding results of Zhou (2009), Qin, Cho, and Kang (2011) and of many other authors.
Quantitative Measurements in 3-Dimensional Datasets of Mouse Lymph Nodes Resolve Organ-Wide Functional Dependencies
Authors: Mayer Jürgen , Swoger Jim , Ozga Aleksandra J. , Stein Jens V. , Sharpe James
Published: September 2012

Deep tissue imaging has become state of the art in biology, but now the problem is to quantify spatial information in a global, organ-wide context. Although access to the raw data is no longer a limitation, the computational tools to extract biologically useful information out of these large data sets is still catching up. In many cases, to understand the mechanism behind a biological process, where molecules or cells interact with each other, it is mandatory to know their mutual positions. We illustrate this principle here with the immune system. Although the general functions of lymph nodes as immune sentinels are well described, many cellular and molecular details governing the interactions of lymphocytes and dendritic cells remain unclear to date and prevent an in-depth mechanistic understanding of the immune system. We imagedex vivolymph nodes isolated from both wild-type and transgenic mice lacking key factors for dendritic cell positioning and used software written in MATLAB to determine the spatial distances between the dendritic cells and the internal high endothelial vascular network. This allowed us to quantify the spatial localization of the dendritic cells in the lymph node, which is a critical parameter determining the effectiveness of an adaptive immune response.
Dynamical System Analysis of Thermal Convection in a Horizontal Layer of Nanofluids Heated from Below
Authors: Jawdat J. M. , Hashim I. , Momani S.
Published: September 2012

The effect of nanofluids on chaotic convection in a fluid layer heated from below was studied in this paper for low Prandtl number based on the theory of dynamical systems. A low‐dimensional, Lorenz‐like model was obtained using Galerkin‐truncated approximations. The fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method was employed to solve the nonlinear system. The results show that inhibition of chaotic convection can be observed when using nanofluids.
Well‐Posedness of the First Order of Accuracy Difference Scheme for Elliptic‐Parabolic Equations in Hölder Spaces
Authors: Gercek Okan
Published: September 2012

A first order of accuracy difference scheme for the
approximate solution of abstract nonlocal boundary value problem −d2u(t)/dt2 + sign(t)Au(t) = g(t), (0 ≤ t ≤ 1), du(t)/dt + sign(t)Au(t) = f(t), (−1 ≤ t ≤ 0), u(0+) = u(0−), u′(0+) = u′(0−),and u(1) = u(−1) + μ for differential equations in a Hilbert space H with a self‐adjoint positive definite operator A is considered. The well‐posedness of this difference scheme in Hölder spaces without a weight is established. Moreover, as applications, coercivity estimates in Hölder norms
for the solutions of nonlocal boundary value problems for elliptic‐parabolic equations are obtained.
The Continuing Challenges of Translational Research: Clinician-Scientists’ Perspective
Authors: Homer-Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Tsui Janice
Published: September 2012

Over the last twenty years, revolutionary advances in biomedicine including gene therapy, stem cell research, proteomics, genomics and nanotechnology have highlighted the progressive need to restructure traditional approaches to basic and clinical research in order to facilitate the rapid, efficient integration and translation of these new technologies into novel effective therapeutics. Over the past ten years, funding bodies in the USA and UK such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Medical Research Council (MRC) have been driving translational research by defining and tackling the hurdles but more still remains to be achieved. This article discusses the ongoing challenges translational researchers face and outlines recent initiatives to tackle these including the new changes to translational funding schemes proposed by the NIH and the MRC and the launch of the “European Advanced Translational Research InfraStructure in Medicine” (EATRIS). It is anticipated that initiatives such as these will not only strengthen translational biomedical research programmes already initiated but should lead to rapid benefits to patients and society.
Desert Dust Outbreaks over Mediterranean Basin: A Modeling, Observational, and Synoptic Analysis Approach
Authors: Calastrini F. , Guarnieri F. , Becagli S. , Busillo C. , Chiari M. , Dayan U. , Lucarelli F. , Nava S. , Pasqui M. , Traversi R. , Udisti R. , Zipoli G.
Published: September 2012

Dust intrusions from African desert regions have an impact on the Mediterranean Basin (MB), as they cause an anomalous increase of aerosol concentrations in the tropospheric column and often an increase of particulate matter at the ground level. To estimate the Saharan dust contribution to PM10, a significant dust intrusion event that occurred in June 2006 is investigated, joining numerical simulations and specific measurements. As a first step, a synoptic analysis of this episode is performed. Such analysis, based only on meteorological and aerosol optical thickness observations, does not allow the assessment of exhaustive informations. In fact, it is not possible to distinguish dust outbreaks transported above the boundary layer without any impact at the ground level from those causing deposition. The approach proposed in this work applies an ad hoc model chain to describe emission, transport and deposition dynamics. Furthermore, physical and chemical analyses (PIXE analysis and ion chromatography) were used to measure the concentration of all soil-related elements to quantify the contribution of dust particles to PM10. The comparison between simulation results and in-situ measurements show a satisfying agreement, and supports the effectiveness of the model chain to estimate the Saharan dust contribution at ground level.
Homogeneous Hyperbolic Systems for Terahertz and Far-Infrared Frequencies
Authors: Alekseyev Leonid V. , Podolskiy Viktor A. , Narimanov Evgenii E.
Published: September 2012

We demonstrate that homogeneous naturally-occurring materials can form hyperbolic media, and can be used for nonmagnetic negative refractive index systems. We present specific realizations of the proposed approach for the THz and far-IR frequencies. The proposed structures operate away from resonance, thereby promising the capacity for low-loss devices.
Current Indications for Surgical Repair in Patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valve and Ascending Aortic Ectasia
Authors: Etz Christian D. , Misfeld Martin , Borger Michael A. , Luehr Maximilian , Strotdrees Elfriede , Mohr Friedrich-Wilhelm
Published: September 2012

Preventive surgical repair of the moderately dilated ascending aorta/aortic root in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is controversial. Most international reference centers are currently proposing a proactive approach for BAV patients with a maximum ascending aortic/root diameter of 45 mm since the risk of dissection/rupture raises significantly with an aneurysm diameter >50 mm. Current guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the joint guidelines of the American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA) recommend elective repair in symptomatic patients with dysfunctional BAV (aortic diameter ≥45 mm). In asymptomatic patients with a well-functioning BAV, elective repair is recommended for diameters ≥50 mm, or if the aneurysm is rapidly progressing (rate of 5 mm/year), or in case of a strong family history of dissection/rupture/sudden death, or with planned pregnancy. As diameter is likely not the most reliable predictor of rupture and dissection and the majority of BAV patients may never experience an aortic catastrophe at small diameters, an overly aggressive approach almost certainly will put some patients with BAV unnecessarily at risk of operative and early mortality. This paper discusses the indications for preventive, elective repair of the aortic root, and ascending aorta in patients with a BAV and a moderately dilated—or ectatic—ascending aorta.
New 4(3) Pairs Diagonally Implicit Runge‐Kutta‐Nyström Method for Periodic IVPs
Authors: Senu Norazak , Suleiman Mohamed , Ismail Fudziah , Arifin Norihan Md
Published: September 2012

New 4(3) pairs Diagonally Implicit Runge‐Kutta‐Nyström (DIRKN) methods with reduced phase‐lag are developed for the integration of initial value problems for second‐order ordinary differential equations possessing oscillating solutions. Two DIRKN pairs which are three‐ and four‐stage with high order of dispersion embedded with the third‐order formula for the estimation of the local truncation error. These new methods are more efficient when compared with current methods of similar type and with the L‐stable Runge‐Kutta pair derived by Butcher and Chen (2000) for the numerical integration of second‐order differential equations with periodic solutions.
Fractional Directional Differentiation and Its Application for Multiscale Texture Enhancement
Authors: Gao Chaobang , Zhou Jiliu , Zhang Weihua
Published: September 2012

This paper derives the directional derivative expression of Taylor formula for two‐variable function from Taylor formula of one‐variable function. Further, it proposes a new concept, fractional directional differentiation (FDD), and corresponding theories. To achieve the numerical calculation, the paper deduces power series expression of FDD. Moreover, the paper discusses the construction of FDD mask in the four quadrants, respectively, for digital image. The differential coefficients of every direction are not the same along the eight directions in the four quadrants, which is the biggest difference by contrast to general fractional differentiation and can reflect different fractional change rates along different directions, and this benefits to enlarge the differences among the image textures. Experiments show that, for texture‐rich digital images, the capability of nonlinearly enhancing comprehensive texture details by FDD is better than those by the general fractional differentiation and Butterworth filter. By quantity analysis, it shows that state‐of‐the‐art effect of texture enhancement is obtained by FDD.
Nicotine Exposure Exacerbates Development of Cataracts in a Type 1 Diabetic Rat Model
Authors: Tirgan Nima , Kulp Gabriela A. , Gupta Praveena , Boretsky Adam , Wiraszka Tomasz A. , Godley Bernard , Tilton Ronald G. , Motamedi Massoud
Published: September 2012

Diabetes and smoking are known risk factors for cataract development. In this study, we evaluated the effect of nicotine on the progression of cataracts in a type 1 diabetic rat model. Diabetes was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by a single injection of 65 mg/kg streptozotocin. Daily nicotine injections were administered subcutaneously. Forty-five rats were divided into groups of diabetics with and without nicotine treatment and controls with and without nicotine treatment. Progression of lens opacity was monitored using a slit lamp biomicroscope and scores were assigned. To assess whether systemic inflammation played a role in mediating cataractogenesis, we studied serum levels of eotaxin, IL-6, and IL-4. The levels of the measured cytokines increased significantly in nicotine-treated and untreated diabetic animals versus controls and demonstrated a positive trend in the nicotine-treated diabetic rats. Our data suggest the presence of a synergistic relationship between nicotine and diabetes that accelerated cataract formation via inflammatory mediators.
Carbonic Anhydrases III and IV Autoantibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Diabetes, Hypertensive Renal Disease, and Heart Failure
Authors: Liu Chengeng , Wei Yue , Wang Jianmin , Pi Langan , Huang Jianjun , Wang Peichang
Published: September 2012

In the present study, the CA III and IV autoantibodies, CA activity, antioxidant enzymes and cytokines in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), diabetes, hypertensive renal disease, and heart failure were investigated. The anti-CA III antibody titers in patients with RA, SLE, and type 1 diabetes (T1D) were significantly higher than that in control groups (P<0.05). The anti-CA IV antibody titers in patients with RA, SLE, type 1 diabetic nephropathy (T1DN), and heart failure were significantly higher than that in control groups (P<0.05) while anti-CA IV antibody could suppress the total CA activity. The SOD and GPx levels in patients with RA, SLE, and T1DN were significantly lower than that in control groups (P<0.05). IL-6, IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF-αlevels were significantly higher in SLE group compared with the control group (P<0.05). Weak but significant correlations were found between anti-CA III antibodies and ESR in RA (r=0.403,P=0.013) and SLE patients (r=0.397,P=0.007). These results suggested that the generation of CA III and IV autoantibodies, antioxidant enzymes, and cytokines might influence each other and CA autoantibodies might affect the normal physiology function of CA.
Fatal Multiorgan Failure Associated with Disseminated Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Glas Michael , Smola Sigrun , Pfuhl Thorsten , Pokorny Juliane , Bohle Rainer M. , Bücker Arno , Kamradt Jörn , Volk Thomas
Published: September 2012

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infections cause typical dermal and mucosal lesions in children and adults. Also complications to the peripheral and central nervous system, pneumonia or hepatitis are well known. However, dissemination to viscera in adults is rare and predominantly observed in immunocompromised patients. Here we describe the case of a 70-year-old male admitted with macrohematuria and signs of acute infection and finally deceasing in a septic shock with multi organ failure 17 days after admission to intensive care unit. No bacterial or fungal infection could be detected during his stay, but only two days before death the patient showed signs of rectal, orolabial and genital herpes infection. The presence of HSV-1 was detected in swabs taken from the lesions, oropharyngeal fluid as well as in plasma. Post-mortem polymerase chain reaction analyses confirmed a disseminated infection with HSV-1 involving various organs and tissues but excluding the central nervous system. Autopsy revealed a predominantly retroperitoneal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma as the suspected origin of immunosuppression underlying herpes simplex dissemination.
The Performance of Active Coated Nanoparticles Based on Quantum-Dot Gain Media
Authors: Campbell Sawyer D. , Ziolkowski Richard W.
Published: September 2012

Quantum-dots (QDs) provide an exciting option for the gain media incorporated in active coated nanoparticles (CNPs) because they possess large gain coefficients resulting from their extreme confinement effects. The optical properties of core/shell QDs can be tuned by changing the relative size of the core/shell, that is, by effectively changing its band gap structure. Similarly, the resonance of a CNP can be adjusted
by changing the relative sizes of its layers. It is demonstrated here that by optimally locating the QDs inside a resonant CNP structure it is possible to greatly enhance the intrinsic amplifying behavior of the combined QD-CNP system.
Vaccine Development to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropathology in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Carrera Iván , Etcheverría Ignacio , Fernández-Novoa Lucía , Lombardi Valter , Cacabelos Ramón , Vigo Carmen
Published: September 2012

A novel vaccine addressing the major hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), senile plaque-like deposits of amyloid beta-protein (Aβ), neurofibrillary tangle-like structures, and glial proinflammatory cytokines, has been developed. The present vaccine takes a new approach to circumvent failures of previous ones tested in mice and humans, including the Elan-Wyeth vaccine (AN1792), which caused massive T-cell activation, resulting in a meningoencephalitis-like reaction. The EB101 vaccine consists ofAβ1-42delivered in a novel immunogen-adjuvant composed of liposomes-containing sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). EB101 was administered to APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice before and after AD-like pathological symptoms were detectable. Treatment with EB101 results in a marked reduction of Aβplaque burden, decrease of neurofibrillary tangle-like structure density, and attenuation of astrocytosis. In this transgenic mouse model, EB101 reduces the basal immunological interaction between the T cells and immune activation markers in the affected hippocampal/cortical areas, consistent with decreased amyloidosis-induced inflammation. Therefore, immunization with EB101 prevents and reverses AD-like neuropathology in a significant manner by halting disease progression without developing behavioral spatial deficits in transgenic mice.
New Results on Global Exponential Stability of Impulsive Functional Differential Systems with Delayed Impulses
Authors: Cheng Pei , Wu Zheng , Wang Lianglong
Published: September 2012

By using the Lyapunov functions and the Razumikhin techniques, the exponential stability of impulsive functional differential systems with delayed impulses is investigated. The obtained results have shown that the system will stable if the impulses’ frequency and amplitude are suitably related to the increase or decrease of the continuous flows, and they improve and complement ones from some recent works. An example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness and the advantages of the results obtained.
Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation (EUS-RFA) of the Pancreas in a Porcine Model
Authors: Gaidhane Monica , Smith Ioana , Ellen Kristi , Gatesman Jeremy , Habib Nagy , Foley Patricia , Moskaluk Christopher , Kahaleh Michel
Published: September 2012

Backgrounds. Limited effective palliative treatments exist for pancreatic cancer which includes surgery or chemotherapy. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses high frequency alternating current to ablate diseased tissue and has been used to treat various tumors. In this study, we evaluated a prototype probe adjusted to the EUS-needle to perform EUS-RFA to permit coagulative necrosis in the pancreas.Methods. Five Yucatan pigs underwent EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation of the head of their pancreas. Using an EUS-needle, RFA was applied with 6 mm and then 10 mm of the probe exposed at specific wattage for preset durations.Results. Only one pig showed moderate levels of pancreatitis (20% proximal pancreatitis). The other animals showed much lower areas of tissue damage. In 3 of the 5 pigs, the proximal pancreas showed greater levels of tissue injury than the distal pancreas, consistent with the proximity of the tissue to the procedure site. In 1 pig, both proximal and distal pancreas showed minimal pancreatitis (1%). There was minimal evidence of fat necrosis in intra-pancreatic and/or extra-pancreatic adipose tissue.Conclusion. EUS-guided RFA of the pancreatic head with the monopolar probe through a 19-gauge needle was well tolerated in 5 Yucatan pigs and with minimal amount of pancreatitis.
Associations of C-Reactive Protein to Indices of Vascular Health and the Influence of Serum 25(OH)D Status in Healthy Adults
Authors: Ashraf Ambika P. , Fisher Gordon , Alvarez Jessica , Dudenbostel Tanja , Calhoun David A. , Szalai Alexander J. , Gower Barbara A.
Published: September 2012

Elevated serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] are associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Ethnic differences in serum hs-CRP and 25(OH)D concentrations and CVD are known. Objectives: to investigate the ethnic differences in hs-CRP concentrations, to assess the influence of 25(OH)D on these ethnic differences and to examine the influence of 25(OH)D on association between hs-CRP and cardiovascular health indices. Subjects: 62 healthy adults [26 African Americans (AA), 26 European Americans (EA), and 10 Hispanic Americans (HA)], ages 18–55 years. Serum hs-CRP and 25(OH)D as well as pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx), and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) were measured. hs-CRP was inversely associated with 25(OH)D (r=−0.25,P=0.049), and hs-CRP was positively associated with PWV (r=0.29,P=0.04). The association of hs-CRP with PWV attenuated after adjustment for 25(OH)D (P=0.15). hs-CRP was higher in AA compared to EA (P=0.05); this differences was reduced by 32% after adjusting for serum 25(OH)D. Conclusion: eventhough the inverse association between serum 25(OH)D and CRP does not infer causality, lower serum 25(OH)D may increase risk for inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. The lower 25(OH)D in AA may predispose to greater inflammation and associated vascular dysfunction.
Rhabdomyolysis due to Multiple Wasp Stings
Authors: Ito K. , Imafuku S. , Nakayama J.
Published: September 2012

Wasp sting is a relatively common arthropod assault, but is sometimes fatal because of anaphylaxis. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious condition, with destruction of striated muscles, and can be induced by various causes such as drugs, heart attacks, CRASH syndrome, and viper bites. Mass envenomation by multiple wasp stings can also cause rhabdomyolysis followed by acute renal failure, although it is extremely rare. We herein report a case who had an anaphylaxis-like reaction and rhabdomyolysis due to multiple wasp stings.
Dynamic Associations of Change in Physical Activity and Change in Cognitive Function: Coordinated Analyses of Four Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Lindwall Magnus , Cimino Cynthia R. , Gibbons Laura E. , Mitchell Meghan B. , Benitez Andreana , Brown Cassandra L. , Kennison Robert F. , Shirk Steven D. , Atri Alireza , Robitaille Annie , MacDonald Stuart W. S. , Zelinski Elizabeth M. , Willis Sherry L. , Schaie K. Warner , Johansson Boo , Praetorius Marcus , Dixon Roger A. , Mungas Dan M. , Hofer Scott M. , Piccinin Andrea M.
Published: September 2012

The present study used a coordinated analyses approach to examine the association of physical activity and cognitive change in four longitudinal studies. A series of multilevel growth models with physical activity included both as a fixed (between-person) and time-varying (within-person) predictor of four domains of cognitive function (reasoning, memory, fluency, and semantic knowledge) was used. Baseline physical activity predicted fluency, reasoning and memory in two studies. However, there was a consistent pattern of positive relationships between time-specific changes in physical activity and time-specific changes in cognition, controlling for expected linear trajectories over time, across all four studies. This pattern was most evident for the domains of reasoning and fluency.
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Presenting with Plexiform Neurofibromas in Two Patients: MRI Features
Authors: Halefoglu Ahmet Mesrur
Published: September 2012

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as peripheral neurofibromatosis or von Recklinghausen’s disease, is one of the most common genetic disorders. It is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. Multiple cutaneous neurofibromas are hallmark lesions of NF1. Localized and plexiform neurofibromas of the paraspinal and sacral region are the most common abdominal neoplasms in NF1. Herein, we report two patients with a known history of NF1 presenting with multiple, extensive localized and plexiform neurofibromas. We describe the important distinguishing features of these tumors as seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including very bright signal intensity and target sign on T2 weighted images.
Airway Smooth Muscle as a Target in Asthma and the Beneficial Effects of Bronchial Thermoplasty
Authors: Janssen Luke J.
Published: September 2012

Airflow within the airways is determined directly by the lumenal area of that airway. In this paper, we consider several factors which can reduce airway lumenal area, including thickening and/or active constriction of the airway smooth muscle (ASM). The latter cell type can also contribute in part to inflammation, another feature of asthma, through its ability to take on a synthetic/secretory phenotype. The ASM therefore becomes a strategically important target in the treatment of asthma, given these key contributions to the pathophysiology of that disease. Pharmacological approaches have been developed to elicit relaxation of the ASM, but these are not always effective in all patients, nor do they address the long-term structural changes which impinge on the airway lumen. The recent discovery that thermal energy can be used to ablate smooth muscle has led to the development of a novel physical intervention—bronchial thermoplasty—in the treatment of asthma. Here, we review the evolution of this novel approach, consider some of the possible mechanisms that account for its salutary effects, and pose new questions which may lead to even better therapies for asthma.
Synthesis and Properties of MPEG‐Coated Superparamagnetic Magnetite Nanoparticles
Authors: Cao Xueli , Zhang Baolin , Zhao Fangyuan , Feng Lingyun
Published: September 2012

The magnetite nanoparticles were synthesized by the thermal decomposition of iron(III) acetylacetonate in methoxy polyethylene glycol, which was used as solvent, reducing agent, and modifying agent in the reaction. The morphologies and phase compositions of the nanoparticles were determined by transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction, respectively. The surface coating of the nanoparticles was recognized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Magnetic properties were measured using superconducting quantum interference device. The zeta potential and hydrodynamic size of the nanoparticles was determined using nanoparticle and zeta potential analyzer. The magnetite nanoparticles show superparamagnetic behavior in 300 K. The negatively charged methoxy polyethylene glycol‐coated magnetite nanoparticles in water exhibited longer‐time dispersion with small hydrodynamic size than the magnetite nanoparticles synthesized by the thermal decomposition of iron(III) acetylacetonate in polyethylene glycol. The less conjunction between methoxy polyethylene glycol‐coated magnetite nanoparticles due to the inert –CH3 terminal group may cause their higher stability in water dispersion.
Fault‐Reconstruction‐Based Cascaded Sliding Mode Observers for Descriptor Linear Systems
Authors: Yu Jinyong , Sun Guanghui , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: September 2012

This paper develops a cascaded sliding mode observer method to reconstruct actuator faults for a class of descriptor linear systems. Based on a new canonical form, a novel design method is presented to discuss the existence conditions of the sliding mode observer. Furthermore, the proposed method is extended to general descriptor linear systems with actuator faults. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed technique is illustrated by a simulation example.
Recurrent Meningeal Hemangiopericytoma with Multiple Metastasis and Hypoglycemia: A Case Report
Authors: Chan Jammy Kin Iong , Cheuk Wah , Ho Luen Cheong , Wen Jian-Ming
Published: September 2012

Aims. We report on the unusual case of a 43-year-old man who developed recurrent meningeal hemangiopericytoma and presented with hypoglycemia 6 years after excision of the tumor.Methods and Results. We utilized computed tomography to assure multiple tumor metastasis and cranial recurrence of previous meningeal hemangiopericytoma and clinical laboratory tests and immunohistochemical staining to characterize this case. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography showed the recurrent tumor at original torcular site was increased in size. Abnormal low levels of growth hormone, insulin, and insulin-like growth factor-I except insulin-like growth factor-II were detected in the serum. By immunohistochemistry, the neoplastic cells characteristically express diffusely CD99, bcl2, and variable CD34. After radio- and chemotherapy, serum glucose level of the patient returned to normal.Conclusions. Comparing other brain tumors, meningeal hemangiopericytoma has a higher recurrent and metastatic rate, but this tumor with hypoglycemia is very rare.
Is Physical Activity Able to Modify Oxidative Damage in Cardiovascular Aging?
Authors: Corbi Graziamaria , Conti Valeria , Russomanno Giusy , Rengo Giuseppe , Vitulli Piergiusto , Ciccarelli Anna Linda , Filippelli Amelia , Ferrara Nicola
Published: September 2012

Aging is a multifactorial process resulting in damage of molecules, cells, and tissues. It has been demonstrated that the expression and activity of antioxidant systems (SOD, HSPs) are modified in aging, with reduced cell ability to counteract the oxidant molecules, and consequent weak resistance to ROS accumulation. An important mechanism involved is represented by sirtuins, the activity of which is reduced by aging. Physical activity increases the expression and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, with consequent reduction of ROS. Positive effects of physical exercise in terms of antioxidant activity could be ascribable to a greater expression and activity of SOD enzymes, HSPs and SIRT1 activity. The antioxidant effects could increase, decrease, or not change in relation to the exercise protocol. Therefore, some authors by using a new approach based on the in vivo/vitro technique demonstrated that the highest survival and proliferation and the lowest senescence were obtained by performing an aerobic training. Therefore, the in vivo/vitro technique described could represent a good tool to better understand how the exercise training mediates its effects on aging-related diseases, as elderly with heart failure that represents a special population in which the exercise plays an important role in the improvement of cardiovascular function, quality of life, and survival.
Event‐Triggered State Estimation for a Class of Delayed Recurrent Neural Networks with Sampled‐Data Information
Authors: Li Hongjie
Published: September 2012

The paper investigates the state estimation problem for a class of recurrent neural networks with sampled‐data information and time‐varying delays. The main purpose is to estimate the neuron states through output sampled measurement; a novel event‐triggered scheme is proposed, which can lead to a significant reduction of the information communication burden in the network; the feature of this scheme is that whether or not the sampled data should be transmitted is determined by the current sampled data and the error between the current sampled data and the latest transmitted data. By using a delayed‐input approach, the error dynamic system is equivalent to a dynamic system with two different time‐varying delays. Based on the Lyapunov‐krasovskii functional approach, a state estimator of the considered neural networks can be achieved by solving some linear matrix inequalities, which can be easily facilitated by using the standard numerical software. Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed event‐triggered scheme.
Mitochondrial Hormesis in PancreaticβCells: Does Uncoupling Protein 2 Play a Role?
Authors: Li Ning , Stojanovski Suzana , Maechler Pierre
Published: September 2012

In pancreaticβcells, mitochondrial metabolism translates glucose sensing into signals regulating insulin secretion. Chronic exposure ofβcells to excessive nutrients, namely, glucolipotoxicity, impairsβ-cell function. This is associated with elevated ROS production from overstimulated mitochondria. Mitochondria are not only the major source of cellular ROS, they are also the primary target of ROS attacks. The mitochondrial uncoupling protein UCP2, even though its uncoupling properties are debated, has been associated with protective functions against ROS toxicity. Hormesis, an adaptive response to cellular stresses, might contribute to the protection againstβ-cell death, possibly limiting the development of type 2 diabetes. Mitochondrial hormesis, or mitohormesis, is a defense mechanism observed in ROS-induced stress-responses by mitochondria. Inβcells, mitochondrial damages induced by sublethal exogenous H2O2can induce secondary repair and defense mechanisms. In this context, UCP2 is a marker of mitohormesis, being upregulated following stress conditions. When overexpressed in nonstressed naïve cells, UCP2 confers resistance to oxidative stress. Whether treatment with mitohormetic inducers is sufficient to restore or ameliorate secretory function ofβcells remains to be determined.
Effects of Organic Compounds on Microstructure, Optical, and Electrical Properties of ITO Thin Films Prepared by Dip-Coating Method
Authors: Yang Ru-Yuan , Chu Cheng-Jye , Peng Yu-Ming , Chueng Hui-Ju
Published: September 2012

Tin-doped Indium oxide (ITO) thin films were prepared by sol-gel dip-coating technique using low-cost metal salts and organic solvents. The coated films were treated without annealing or annealed at 400°C and 600°C in 3% H2/97% N2mixtures atmosphere. Microstructure, optical, and electrical properties of the prepared ITO films were investigated in detail. The maximum transmittance in the visible range (380–780 nm) is 85.6%, and the best resistivity is5×10−2 Ω-cm when annealed at 600°C in 3% H2/97% N2mixtures atmosphere. It is found that the optical and electrical properties of the prepared ITO films are strongly related to the microstructure variation. The organic compounds could not be removed completely, and the prepared ITO thin films were not dense when the prepared ITO film was annealed at 600°C in 3% H2/97% N2mixtures atmosphere, causing the poor conductivity.
Coupled Fixed Point Theorems for Nonlinear Contractions in Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Al-Sharif Sharifa , Al-Khaleel Mohammad , Khandaqji Mona
Published: September 2012

We establish some results on the existence and uniqueness of coupled fixed point involving nonlinear contractive conditions in complete-ordered partial metric spaces.
Thromboembolic Prophylaxis in Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Knesek David , Peterson Todd C. , Markel David C.
Published: September 2012

Approximately 775,000 hip and knee arthroplasties are performed yearly in the United States, with a dramatic increase expected. Patients having hip and knee arthroplasties are at high risk of developing a venous thromboembolism. The American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) have updated guidelines, which outline new prophylactic strategies. Factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban has a new recommendation by ACCP and is gradually being adopted by the joint arthroplasty community as an effective oral agent. Other more well-known agents including warfarin, low-molecular-weight heparin, aspirin, and fondaparinux continue to be options for prophylaxis. While the goal of prophylaxis continues to be the prevention of venous thromboemboli and pulmonary emboli, it is important to consider the increased bleeding risk associated with their use. The most recent ACCP and AAOS guidelines give clinicians a greater autonomy in choosing a prophylactic agent with greater emphasis placed on dialogue between the surgeon and patient as to the choice of prophylaxis.
Analysis of Large‐Strain Extrusion Machining with Different Chip Compression Ratios
Authors: Deng Wen Jun , Lin Ping , Xie Zi Chun , Li Qing
Published: September 2012

Large‐Strain Extrusion Machining (LSEM) is a novel‐introduced process for deforming materials to very high plastic strains to produce ultra‐fine nanostructured materials. Before the technique can be exploited, it is important to understand the deformation behavior of the workpiece and its relationship to the machining parameters and friction conditions. This paper reports finite‐element method (FEM) analysis of the LSEM process to understand the evolution of temperature field, effective strain, and strain rate under different chip compression ratios. The cutting and thrust forces are also analyzed with respect to time. The results show that LSEM can produce very high strains by changing in the value of chip compression ratio, thereby enabling the production of nanostructured materials. The shape of the chip produced by LSEM can also be geometrically well constrained.
Paget’s Disease of the Vulva in Premenopausal Woman Treated with Only Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Asmouki Hamid , Oumouloud Rachid , Aboulfalah Abderrahim , Soummani Abderraouf , Marrat Abdelouahed
Published: September 2012

Paget’s disease of the vulva remains a rare condition with only a limited number of cases reported in the literature. It is an uncommon neoplasm usually of postmenopausal white women characterized by controversies in its prevalence, clinical features, treatment strategies, and prognostic. We here report a case of a primary Paget’s disease of the vulva in premenopausal woman treated by only surgery with a favorable issue.