bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metamorphic Testing Integer Overflow Faults of Mission Critical Program: A Case Study
Authors: Hui Zhanwei , Huang Song , Ren Zhengping , Yao Yi
Published: February 2013

For mission critical programs, integer overflow is one of the most dangerous faults. Different testing methods provide several effective ways to detect the defect. However, it is hard to validate the testing outputs, because the oracle of testing is not always available or too expensive to get, unless the program throws an exception obviously. In the present study, the authors conduct a case study, where the authors apply a metamorphic testing (MT) method to detect the integer overflow defect and alleviate the oracle problem in testing critical program of Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS). Experimental results show that, in revealing typical integer mutations, compared with traditional safety property testing method, MT with a novel symbolic metamorphic relation is more effective than the traditional method in some cases.
A Constructive Data Classification Version of the Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Szabo Alexandre , de Castro Leandro Nunes
Published: February 2013

The particle swarm optimization algorithm was originally introduced to solve continuous parameter optimization problems. It was soon modified to solve other types of optimization tasks and also to be applied to data analysis. In the latter case, however, there are few works in the literature that deal with the problem of dynamically building the architecture of the system. This paper introduces new particle swarm algorithms specifically designed to solve classification problems. The first proposal, named Particle Swarm Classifier (PSClass), is a derivation of a particle swarm clustering algorithm and its architecture, as in most classifiers, is pre-defined. The second proposal, named Constructive Particle Swarm Classifier (cPSClass), uses ideas from the immune system to automatically build the swarm. A sensitivity analysis of the growing procedure of cPSClass and an investigation into a proposed pruning procedure for this algorithm are performed. The proposals were applied to a wide range of databases from the literature and the results show that they are competitive in relation to other approaches, with the advantage of having a dynamically constructed architecture.
A Review of Factors Influencing the Banking of Collected Umbilical Cord Blood Units
Authors: Allan David , Petraszko Tanya , Elmoazzen Heidi , Smith Susan
Published: February 2013

Umbilical cord blood banking efforts have increased dramatically in the past two decades in response to increasing demand for alternative sources of blood stem cells to support patients requiring hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Transplant centres have accumulated increasing expertise in their understanding of umbilical cord blood characteristics that are associated with improved outcome following transplantation. These characteristics and factors can assist transplant centres in selecting cord blood units from the worldwide inventory of banked units. Umbilical cord blood banks, therefore, need to remain agile in adjusting the inventory of the banks to address shifts or changes in the needs of transplant centres. Public umbilical cord blood banks face the challenge of building inventory while managing limited resources and are faced with decisions regarding which units can be stored and which units that have been collected should be discarded or used for other endeavours such as research. To this end, we sought to review parameters influencing the decision to bank a collected cord blood unit. In this paper, we will address parameters associated with graft potency and address other factors that guide the decision to bank collected units.
Aqueous Extract ofPaeonia lactifloraand Paeoniflorin as Aggregation Reducers Targeting Chaperones in Cell Models of Spinocerebellar Ataxia 3
Authors: Chang Kuo-Hsuan , Chen Wan-Ling , Lee Li-Ching , Lin Chih-Hsin , Kung Pin-Jui , Lin Te-Hsien , Wu Yi-Ci , Wu Yih-Ru , Chen Yi-Chun , Lee-Chen Guey-Jen , Chen Chiung-Mei
Published: February 2013

Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) types 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, and 17 as well as Huntington’s disease are a group of neurodegenerative disorders caused by expanded CAG repeats encoding a long polyglutamine (polyQ) tract in the respective proteins. Evidence has shown that the accumulation of intranuclear and cytoplasmic misfolded polyQ proteins leads to apoptosis and cell death. Thus suppression of aggregate formation is expected to inhibit a wide range of downstream pathogenic events in polyQ diseases. In this study, we established a high-throughput aggregation screening system using 293 ATXN3/Q75-GFP cells and applied this system to test the aqueous extract ofPaeonia lactiflora(P. lactiflora) and its constituents. We found that the aggregation can be significantly prohibited byP. lactifloraand its active compound paeoniflorin. Meanwhile,P. lactifloraand paeoniflorin upregulated HSF1 and HSP70 chaperones in the same cell models. Both of them further reduced the aggregation in neuronal differentiated SH-SY5Y ATXN3/Q75-GFP cells. Our results demonstrate howP. lactifloraand paeoniflorin are likely to work on polyQ-aggregation reduction and provide insight into the possible working mechanism ofP. lactiflorain SCA3. We anticipate our paper to be a starting point for screening more potential herbs for the treatment of SCA3 and other polyQ diseases.
Improved Hypertension Control with the Imidazoline Agonist Moxonidine in a Multinational Metabolic Syndrome Population: Principal Results of the MERSY Study
Authors: Chazova Irina , Schlaich Markus P.
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to assess the effects of moxonidine on blood pressure and aspects of the metabolic syndrome in racially diverse population of patients encountered in routine medical practice. Physicians collected data on a minimum of three consecutive patients with uncontrolled essential hypertension and criteria for metabolic syndrome, eligible to receive moxonidine (0.2–0.4 mg once daily) for 6 months, either as monotherapy or as adjunct therapy to current antihypertensive treatment. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) declined by an average of24.5+14.3 mmHg and12.6+9.1 mmHg, respectively. BP responder rates defined as attaining BP < 140/90 mmHg were significantly (P<0.001) and substantially higher among younger patients, nonpostmenopausal women, and patients receiving monotherapy. While potentially relevant improvements in the entire cohort were observed in regard to body weight (-2.1±5.4 kg), fasting plasma glucose (from 6.8 to 6.2 mmol/L), and triglycerides (2.4 to 2.0 mmol/L), statistically significant changes in metabolic parameters could only be detected in subgroup analyses. Moxonidine therapy reduced blood pressure and improved rates of blood pressure control in this group of patients. While the observed trend towards improvement in various metabolic parameters merits further investigation, the overall effect of moxonidine treatment is consistent with a reduction of total cardiovascular risk in this hypertensive metabolic syndrome cohort.
Antibacterial TiO2 Coating Incorporating Silver Nanoparticles by Microarc Oxidation and Ion Implantation
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhang Zhiguo , Li Wei
Published: February 2013

Infection associated with titanium implants remains the most common serious complication in hard tissue replacement surgery. Since such postoperative infections are usually difficult to cure, it is critical to find optimal strategies for preventing infections. In this study, TiO2 coating incorporating silver (Ag) nanoparticles were fabricated on pure titanium by microarc oxidation and ion implantation. The antibacterial activity was evaluated by exposing the specimens to Staphylococcus aureus and comparing the reaction of the pathogens to Ti‐MAO‐Ag with Ti‐MAO controls. Ti‐MAO‐Ag clearly inhibited bacterial colonization more than the control specimen. The coating’s antibacterial ability was enhanced by increasing the dose of silver ion implantation, and Ti‐MAO‐Ag20.0 had the best antibacterial ability. In addition, cytocompatibility was assessed by culturing cell colonies on the specimens. The cells grew well on both specimens. These findings indicate that surface modification by means of this process combining MAO and silver ion implantation is useful in providing antibacterial activity and exhibits cytocompatibility with titanium implants.
Adipocytokine Associations with Insulin Resistance in British South Asians
Authors: Webb D. R. , Khunti K. , Chatterjee S. , Jarvis J. , Davies M. J.
Published: February 2013

Aims. Adipocytokines are implicated in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and may represent identifiable precursors of metabolic disease within high-risk groups. We investigated adiponectin, leptin, and TNF-αand assessed the contribution of these molecules to insulin resistance in south Asians.Hypothesis. South Asians have adverse adipocytokine profiles which associate with an HOMA-derived insulin resistance phenotype.Methods. We measured adipocytokine concentrations in south Asians with newly diagnosed impaired glucose tolerance or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a case-control study. 158 (48.5% males) volunteers aged 25–75 years with risk factors for diabetes but no known vascular or metabolic disease provided serum samples for ELISA and bioplex assays.Results. Total adiponectin concentration progressively decreased across the glucose spectrum in both sexes. A reciprocal trend in leptin concentration was observed only in south Asian men. Adiponectin but not leptin independently associated with HOMA-derived insulin resistance after logistic multivariate regression.Conclusion. Diasporic south Asian populations have an adverse adipocytokine profile which deteriorates further with glucose dysregulation. Insulin resistance is inversely associated with adiponectin independent of BMI and waist circumference in south Asians, implying that adipocytokine interplay contributes to the pathogenesis of metabolic disease in this group.
Terahertz Wave Approach and Application on FRP Composites
Authors: Im Kwang-Hee , Hsu David K. , Chiou Chien-Ping , Barnard Daniel J. , Jung Jong-An , Yang In-Young
Published: February 2013

Terahertz (THz) applications have emerged as one of the most new powerful nondestructive evaluation (NDE) techniques. A new T-ray time-domain spectroscopy system was utilized for detecting and evaluating orientation influence in carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) composite laminates. Investigation of terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) was made, and reflection and transmission configurations were studied as a nondestructive evaluation technique. Here, the CFRP composites derived their excellent mechanical strength, stiffness, and electrical conductivity from carbon fibers. Especially, the electrical conductivity of the CFRP composites depends on the direction of unidirectional fibers since carbon fibers are electrically conducting while the epoxy matrix is not. In order to solve various material properties, the index of refraction (n) and the absorption coefficient (α) are derived in reflective and transmission configurations using the terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. Also, for a 48-ply thermoplastic polyphenylene-sulfide-(PPS-) based CFRP solid laminate and nonconducting materials, the terahertz scanning images were made at the angles ranged from0°to180°with respect to the nominal fiber axis. So, the images were mapped out based on the electrical field (E-field) direction in the CFRP solid laminates. It is found that the conductivity (σ) depends on the angles of the nominal axis in the unidirectional fiber.
Dose Effect and Mode of Inheritance of Diabetogenic Gene on Mouse Chromosome 11
Authors: Babaya Naru , Ueda Hironori , Noso Shinsuke , Hiromine Yoshihisa , Nojima Koji , Itoi-Babaya Michiko , Kobayashi Misato , Fujisawa Tomomi , Ikegami Hiroshi
Published: February 2013

The quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping in segregating crosses of NSY (Nagoya-Shibata-Yasuda) mice, an animal model of type 2 diabetes, with nondiabetic strain C3H/He mice has identified diabetogenic QTLs on multiple chromosomes. The QTL on chromosome 11 (Chr11) (Nidd1n) showing the largest effect on hyperglycemia was confirmed by our previous studies with homozygous consomic mice, C3H-11NSY, in which the NSY-derived whole Chr11 was introgressed onto control C3H background genes. C3H-11NSYmice also showed a streptozotocin (STZ) sensitivity. In the present study, we constructed heterozygous C3H-11NSYmice and the phenotypes were analyzed in detail in comparison with those of homozygous C3H-11NSYand C3H mice. Heterozygous C3H-11NSYmice had significantly higher blood glucose levels and STZ sensitivity than those in C3H mice. Hyperglycemia and STZ sensitivity in heterozygous C3H-11NSYmice, however, were not as severe as in homozygous C3H-11NSYmice. The body weight and fat pad weight in heterozygous C3H-11NSYmice were similar to those in C3H and homozygous C3H-11NSYmice. These data indicated that the introgression of Chr11 of the diabetes-susceptible NSY strain onto diabetes-resistant C3H caused marked changes in the glucose tolerance and STZ susceptibility even in a heterozygous state, and suggested that the mode of inheritance of a gene or genes on Chr11 for hyperglycemia and STZ sensitivity is additive.
Metabonomics Study of Essential Hypertension and Its Chinese Medicine Subtypes by Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Yunlun , Nie Lei , Jiang Haiqiang , Lin Jiamao , Zhou Honglei , Xie Jun , Qu Zhengjun , Qi Dongmei , Zhang Yunhui
Published: February 2013

A metabonomic study was performed to investigate the metabolic mechanism of essential hypertension and its Chinese medicine subtypes, including “Yin-deficiency and Yang-hyperactivity syndrome” (YDYHS) and “Yin-Yang deficiency syndrome” (YYDS). Plasma samples from 22 healthy volunteers, 31 hypertensive patients with YDYHS, and 29 hypertensive patients with YYDS were analyzed by1H-NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The three groups were distinctly classified by principal components analysis (PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). According to identified biomarkers and their related pathways, abnormal glucose metabolism might be the main common pathway from YDYHS to YYDS, and sympathetic nervous system activation would play an important role in the pathogenesis of YDYHS, while a low metabolic rate usually occurred in YYDS.
Model-Based Control Design and Integration of Cyberphysical Systems: An Adaptive Cruise Control Case Study
Authors: Eyisi Emeka , Zhang Zhenkai , Koutsoukos Xenofon , Porter Joseph , Karsai Gabor , Sztipanovits Janos
Published: February 2013

The systematic design of automotive control applications is a challenging problem due to lack of understanding of the complex and tight interactions that often manifest during the integration of components from the control design phase with the components from software generation and deployment on actual platform/network. In order to address this challenge, we present a systematic methodology and a toolchain using well-defined models to integrate components from various design phases with specific emphasis on restricting the complex interactions that manifest during integration such as timing, deployment, and quantization. We present an experimental platform for the evaluation and testing of the design process. The approach is applied to the development of an adaptive cruise control, and we present experimental results that demonstrate the efficacy of the approach.
Lévy-Flight Krill Herd Algorithm
Authors: Wang Gaige , Guo Lihong , Gandomi Amir Hossein , Cao Lihua , Alavi Amir Hossein , Duan Hong , Li Jiang
Published: February 2013

To improve the performance of the krill herd (KH) algorithm, in this paper, a Lévy-flight krill herd (LKH) algorithm is proposed for solving optimization tasks within limited computing time. The improvement includes the addition of a new local Lévy-flight (LLF) operator during the process when updating krill in order to improve its efficiency and reliability coping with global numerical optimization problems. The LLF operator encourages the exploitation and makes the krill individuals search the space carefully at the end of the search. The elitism scheme is also applied to keep the best krill during the process when updating the krill. Fourteen standard benchmark functions are used to verify the effects of these improvements and it is illustrated that, in most cases, the performance of this novel metaheuristic LKH method is superior to, or at least highly competitive with, the standard KH and other population-based optimization methods. Especially, this new method can accelerate the global convergence speed to the true global optimum while preserving the main feature of the basic KH.
A Novel Hybrid Bat Algorithm with Harmony Search for Global Numerical Optimization
Authors: Wang Gaige , Guo Lihong
Published: February 2013

A novel robust hybrid metaheuristic optimization approach, which can be considered as an improvement of the recently developed bat algorithm, is proposed to solve global numerical optimization problems. The improvement includes the addition of pitch adjustment operation in HS serving as a mutation operator during the process of the bat updating with the aim of speeding up convergence, thus making the approach more feasible for a wider range of real-world applications. The detailed implementation procedure for this improved metaheuristic method is also described. Fourteen standard benchmark functions are applied to verify the effects of these improvements, and it is demonstrated that, in most situations, the performance of this hybrid metaheuristic method (HS/BA) is superior to, or at least highly competitive with, the standard BA and other population-based optimization methods, such as ACO, BA, BBO, DE, ES, GA, HS, PSO, and SGA. The effect of the HS/BA parameters is also analyzed.
Adaptive Speed Control Design for Brushed Permanent Magnet DC Motor Based on Worst-Case Analysis Approach
Authors: Zeng Sheng
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the adaptive controller design for brushed permanent magnet DC motor used in velocity-tracking applications based on worst-case approach. We first formulate the robust adaptive control problem as a nonlinearH∞-control problem under imperfect state measurement, and then solve it using game-theoretic approach. The controller guarantees the boundedness of closed-loop signals with bounded exogenous disturbances, and achieves desired disturbance attenuation level with respect to the unmeasured exogenous disturbance inputs and the measured disturbance inputs. The strong robustness properties are illustrated by a simulation example.
The Aquatic Environment as a Reservoir of Vibrio cholerae O1 in Hydrographic Basins of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Mendes-Marques Carina Lucena , Silveira Filho Vladimir da Mota , da Costa Ana Paula Rocha , Nunes Mariana de Lira , Silva Filho Sandoval Vieira da , Figueirôa Ângela Cristina Torres de Araújo , Hofer Ernesto , de Almeida Alzira Maria Paiva , Leal Nilma Cintra
Published: February 2013

After the worldwide cholera epidemic in 1993, permanent environmental monitoring of hydrographic basins was established in Pernambuco, Brazil, where cholera is endemic. After a quiescent period, 4 rfbN (serogroup O1) positive water samples that were culture negative were detected by multiplex single‐tube nested PCR (MSTNPCR); 2 of these were also ctxA (cholera toxin) positive. From May to June 2012, 30 V. cholerae O1 isolates were obtained by culturing samples. These isolates were analyzed for the presence of virulence genes by PCR, intergenic spacer region 16S‐23S PCR (ISR‐PCR), and pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). The isolates were positive for the rfbN gene and negative for the assessed pathogenic genes and were classified into 2 groups by ISR and the same profile by PFGE. Close genetic similarity was observed between them (2012) and environmental strains from 2004 to 2005, indicating the permanence of endemic V. cholerae O1 in the region.
Modeling of an Air Conditioning System with Geothermal Heat Pump for a Residential Building
Authors: Cocchi Silvia , Castellucci Sonia , Tucci Andrea
Published: February 2013

The need to address climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions attaches great importance to research aimed at using renewable energy. Geothermal energy is an interesting alternative concerning the production of energy for air conditioning of buildings (heating and cooling), through the use of geothermal heat pumps. In this work a model has been developed in order to simulate an air conditioning system with geothermal heat pump. A ground source heat pump (GSHP) uses the shallow ground as a source of heat, thus taking advantage of its seasonally moderate temperatures. GSHP must be coupled with geothermal exchangers. The model leads to design optimization of geothermal heat exchangers and to verify the operation of the geothermal plant.
Three-Point Bending Tests of Zirconia Core/Veneer Ceramics for Dental Restorations
Authors: Marrelli Massimo , Maletta Carmine , Inchingolo Francesco , Alfano Marco , Tatullo Marco
Published: February 2013

Introduction. The mechanical strength and the surface hardness of commercially available yttrium-doped zirconia were investigated. Furthermore, a comparative study of eight different ceramic veneers, to be used for the production of two-layered all-ceramic restorative systems, was carried out.Materials and Methods. Four types of zirconia specimens were analyzed, according to a standard ISO procedure (ISO 6872). Besides, two-layered zirconia-veneer specimens were prepared for three-point bending tests.Results. A strong effect of the surface roughness on the mechanical strength of zirconia specimens was observed. Finally, a comparative study of eight commercially available veneering ceramics shows different modes of failure between the selected veneers.Conclusion. The results indicate that close attention should be paid to the preparation of zirconia-based crowns and bridges by CAD/CAM process, because surface roughness has an important effect on the mechanical strength of the material. Finally, the results of the mechanical tests on two-layered specimens represent an important support to the choice of the veneering ceramic.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Early Colorectal Neoplasms: Clinical Experience in a Tertiary Medical Center in Taiwan
Authors: Tseng Mei-Yu , Lin Jung-Chun , Huang Tien-Yu , Shih Yu-Lueng , Chu Heng-Cheng , Chang Wei-Kuo , Hsieh Tsai-Yuan , Chen Peng-Jen
Published: February 2013

Objectives. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a promising technique to treat early colorectal neoplasms by facilitating en bloc resection without size limitations. Although ESD for early gastrointestinal epithelial neoplasms has been popular in Japan, clinical experience with colorectal ESD has been rarely reported in Taiwan.Methods. From March 2006 to December 2011, 92 consecutive patients with early colorectal neoplasms resected by ESD at Tri-Service General Hospital were included. ESD was performed for colorectal epithelial neoplasms with a noninvasive pit pattern which had the following criteria: (1) lesions difficult to remove en bloc with a snare, such as laterally spreading tumors-nongranular type (LST-NG) ≧20 mm and laterally spreading tumors-granular type (LST-G) ≧30 mm; (2) lesions with fibrosis or which had recurred after endoscopic mucosal resection with a nonlifting sign.Results. The mean age of the patients was66.3±12.9years, and the male-female ratio was 1.8 : 1. The mean tumor size was37.2±17.9 mm. The en bloc resection rate was 90.2% and the R0 resection rate was 89.1%. Perforations during ESD occurred in 11 patients (12.0%) and all of them were effectively treated by endoscopic closure with hemoclips. No delayed perforation or postoperative bleeding was recorded. There were no procedure-related morbidities or mortalities.Conclusion. ESD is an effective method for en bloc resection of large early colorectal neoplasms and those with a nonlifting sign. An endoscopic technique to close perforations is essential for colorectal ESD.
Simultaneous Determination of Crypto-Chlorogenic Acid, Isoquercetin, and Astragalin Contents inMoringa oleiferaLeaf Extracts by TLC-Densitometric Method
Authors: Vongsak Boonyadist , Sithisarn Pongtip , Gritsanapan Wandee
Published: February 2013

Moringa oleiferaLamarck (Moringaceae) is used as a multipurpose medicinal plant for the treatment of various diseases. Isoquercetin, astragalin, and crypto-chlorogenic acid have been previously found to be major active components in the leaves of this plant. In this study, a thin-layer-chromatography (TLC-)densitometric method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of these major components in the 70% ethanolic extracts ofM. oleiferaleaves collected from 12 locations. The average amounts of crypto-chlorogenic acid, isoquercetin, and astragalin were found to be 0.0473, 0.0427, and 0.0534% dry weight, respectively. The method was validated for linearity, precision, accuracy, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, and robustness. The linearity was obtained in the range of 100–500 ng/spot with a correlation coefficient (r) over 0.9961. Intraday and interday precisions demonstrated relative standard deviations of less than 5%. The accuracy of the method was confirmed by determining the recovery. The average recoveries of each component from the extracts were in the range of 98.28 to 99.65%. Additionally, the leaves from Chiang Mai province contained the highest amounts of all active components. The proposed TLC-densitometric method was simple, accurate, precise, and cost-effective for routine quality controlling ofM. oleiferaleaf extracts.
Localization of Methyl-Coenzyme M Reductase as Metabolic Marker for Diverse Methanogenic Archaea
Authors: Wrede Christoph , Walbaum Ulrike , Ducki Andrea , Heieren Iris , Hoppert Michael
Published: February 2013

Methyl-Coenzyme M reductase (MCR) as key enzyme for methanogenesis as well as for anaerobic oxidation of methane represents an important metabolic marker for both processes in microbial biofilms. Here, the potential of MCR-specific polyclonal antibodies as metabolic marker in various methanogenic Archaea is shown. For standard growth conditions in laboratory culture, the cytoplasmic localization of the enzyme inMethanothermobacter marburgensis,Methanothermobacter wolfei,Methanococcus maripaludis,Methanosarcina mazei, and in anaerobically methane-oxidizing biofilms is demonstrated. Under growth limiting conditions on nickel-depleted media, at low linear growth of cultures, a fraction of 50–70% of the enzyme was localized close to the cytoplasmic membrane, which implies “facultative” membrane association of the enzyme. This feature may be also useful for assessment of growth-limiting conditions in microbial biofilms.
Amelanotic Melanoma Masquerading as a Granular Cell Lesion
Authors: Pandiar Deepak , Basheer Shaini , Shameena P. M. , Sudha S. , Dhana Lakshmi J.
Published: February 2013

Amelanotic melanoma (AM) presents a diagnostic challenge due to its wide clinical presentations, lack of pigmentation, and varied histological appearances. Immunohistochemistry plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of these lesions. Amelanotic melanoma of oral mucosa is an uncommon lesion. We report a case of a 50-year-old male patient with a growth on the anterior mandibular gingiva of seven-month duration. In the present case, histologically, the tumour resembled a granular cell lesion, which has not been reported previously in AM. Diagnosis was possible by a sequential panel of immunohistochemical markers, of which finally vimentin, S100, HMB45, and Melan-A were positive. The tumor was surgically excised, and postsurgical radiotherapy was given.
Unexplained Falls Are Frequent in Patients with Fall-Related Injury Admitted to Orthopaedic Wards: The UFO Study (Unexplained Falls in Older Patients)
Authors: Chiara Mussi , Gianluigi Galizia , Pasquale Abete , Alessandro Morrione , Alice Maraviglia , Gabriele Noro , Paolo Cavagnaro , Loredana Ghirelli , Giovanni Tava , Franco Rengo , Giulio Masotti , Gianfranco Salvioli , Niccolò Marchionni , Andrea Ungar
Published: February 2013

To evaluate the incidence of unexplained falls in elderly patients affected by fall-related fractures admitted to orthopaedic wards, we recruited 246 consecutive patients older than 65 (mean age82±7years, range 65–101). Falls were defined “accidental” (fall explained by a definite accidental cause), “medical” (fall caused directly by a specific medical disease), “dementia-related” (fall in patients affected by moderate-severe dementia), and “unexplained” (nonaccidental falls, not related to a clear medical or drug-induced cause or with no apparent cause). According to the anamnestic features of the event, older patients had a lower tendency to remember the fall. Patients with accidental fall remember more often the event. Unexplained falls were frequent in both groups of age. Accidental falls were more frequent in younger patients, while dementia-related falls were more common in the older ones. Patients with unexplained falls showed a higher number of depressive symptoms. In a multivariate analysis a higher GDS and syncopal spells were independent predictors of unexplained falls. In conclusion, more than one third of all falls in patients hospitalized in orthopaedic wards were unexplained, particularly in patients with depressive symptoms and syncopal spells. The identification of fall causes must be evaluated in older patients with a fall-related injury.
Metabolic Disorders and Diabetic Complications in Spontaneously Diabetic ToriiLeprfaRat: A New Obese Type 2 Diabetic Model
Authors: Kemmochi Yusuke , Fukui Kenji , Maki Mimi , Kimura Shuichi , Ishii Yukihito , Sasase Tomohiko , Miyajima Katsuhiro , Ohta Takeshi
Published: February 2013

Spontaneously Diabetic ToriiLeprfa(SDT fatty) rat, established by introducing thefaallele of the Zucker fatty rat into SDT rat genome, is a new model of obese type 2 diabetes. Both male and female SDT fatty rats show overt obesity, and hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia are observed at a young age as compared with SDT rats. With early incidence of diabetes mellitus, diabetic complications, such as nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy, in SDT fatty rats were seen at younger ages compared to those in the SDT rats. In this paper, we overview pathophysiological features in SDT fatty rats and also describe new insights regarding the hematology, blood pressure, renal complications, and sexual dysfunction. The SDT fatty rats showed an increase of leukocytes, especially the monocyte count, prominent hypertension associated with salt drinking, end-stage renal disease with aging, and hypogonadism. Unlike other diabetic models, the characteristic of SDT fatty rat is to present an incidence of diabetes in females, hypertension, and retinopathy. SDT fatty rat is a useful model for analysis of various metabolic disorders and the evaluation of drugs related to metabolic disease.
A Neural Network Model for Driver’s Lane-Changing Trajectory Prediction in Urban Traffic Flow
Authors: Ding Chenxi , Wang Wuhong , Wang Xiao , Baumann Martin
Published: February 2013

The neural network may learn and incorporate the uncertainties to predict the driver’s lane-changing behavior more accurately. In this paper, we will discuss in detail the effectiveness of Back-Propagation (BP) neural network for prediction of lane-changing trajectory based on the past vehicle data and compare the results between BP neural network model and Elman Network model in terms of the training time and accuracy. Driving simulator data and NGSIM data were processed by a smooth method and then used to validate the availability of the model. The test results indicate that BP neural network might be an accurate prediction of driver’s lane-changing behavior in urban traffic flow. The objective of this paper is to show the usefulness of BP neural network in prediction of lane-changing process and confirm that the vehicle trajectory is influenced previously by the collected data.
Trends in Ectopic Pregnancies in Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulaziz Al-Turki Haifa
Published: February 2013

Background. The objective of this study was to estimate trends in ectopic pregnancies (EP) in a tertiary care center of Eastern Saudi Arabia. Method. Information about patients with ectopic pregnancies who had been admitted to King Fahd Hospital of the University, AlKhobar, between January 2000 and 31 December 2011 was collected from a computerized hospital registry. Age-specific ectopic pregnancy incidence was calculated. The data was analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), version 14.0 (Chicago, IL, USA). Results. There were 274 EPs during the study period; the yearly incidence in terms of 24,098 deliveries was 1.19%. The average age was 28.99 Å 5.62 years. During a three-year period (2000–2002), the incidence was 0.92%; from 2003 to 2005, the incidence was 1.01%; from 2006 to 2008, the incidence was 1.51%; and from 2009 to 2011, the incidence was 1.35%. Age-adjusted ectopic pregnancy incidence rates steadily increased from 92.23 per 10,000 women years during the period 2000–2002 to 149.408 during the 2006–2008 period; since then, it has declined to 110.313 per 10,000 women years. Conclusions. Our study reveals that the incidence of EP has decreased from what it had been during the mid-2000s but has remained significantly elevated when compared to the early 2000s.
The Spontaneously Diabetic Torii Rat: An Animal Model of Nonobese Type 2 Diabetes with Severe Diabetic Complications
Authors: Sasase Tomohiko , Ohta Takeshi , Masuyama Taku , Yokoi Norihide , Kakehashi Akihiro , Shinohara Masami
Published: February 2013

The Spontaneously Diabetic Torii (SDT) rat is an inbred strain of Sprague-Dawley rat and recently is established as a nonobese model of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Male SDT rats show high plasma glucose levels (over 700 mg/dL) by 20 weeks. Male SDT rats show pancreatic islet histopathology, including hemorrhage in pancreatic islets and inflammatory cell infiltration with fibroblasts. Prior to the onset of diabetes, glucose intolerance with hypoinsulinemia is also observed. As a result of chronic severe hyperglycemia, the SDT rats develop profound complications. In eyes, retinopathy, cataract, and neovascular glaucoma are observed. Proliferative retinopathy, especially, resulting from retinal neovascular vessels is a unique characteristic of this model. In kidney, mesangial proliferation and nodular lesion are observed. Both peripheral neuropathy such as decreased nerve conduction velocity and thermal hypoalgesia and autonomic neuropathy such as diabetic diarrhea and voiding dysfunction have been reported. Osteoporosis is another complication characterized in SDT rat. Decreased bone density and low-turnover bone lesions are observed. Taking advantage of these features, SDT rat has been used for evaluating antidiabetic drugs and drugs/gene therapy for diabetic complications. In conclusion, the SDT rat is potentially a useful T2D model for studies on pathogenesis and treatment of diabetic complications in humans.
Phenotypic Characterization of LEA Rat: A New Rat Model of Nonobese Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Okamura Tadashi , Pei Xiang Yuan , Miyoshi Ichiro , Shimizu Yukiko , Takanashi-Yanobu Rieko , Mototani Yasumasa , Kanai Takao , Satoh Jo , Kimura Noriko , Kasai Noriyuki
Published: February 2013

Animal models have provided important information for the genetics and pathophysiology of diabetes. Here we have established a novel, nonobese rat strain with spontaneous diabetes, Long-Evans Agouti (LEA) rat derived from Long-Evans (LE) strain. The incidence of diabetes in the males was 10% at 6 months of age and 86% at 14 months, while none of the females developed diabetes. The blood glucose level in LEA male rats was between 200 and 300 mg/dl at 120 min according to OGTT. The glucose intolerance in correspondence with the impairment of insulin secretion was observed in male rats, which was the main cause of diabetes in LEA rats. Histological examination revealed that the reduction ofβ-cell mass was caused by progressive fibrosis in pancreatic islets in age-dependent manner. The intracytoplasmic hyaline droplet accumulation and the disappearance of tubular epithelial cell layer associated with thickening of basement membrane were evident in renal proximal tubules. The body mass index and glycaemic response to exogenous insulin were comparable to those of control rats. The unique characteristics of LEA rat are a great advantage not only to analyze the progression of diabetes, but also to disclose the genes involved in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Development of Hemodiafiltration Therapy - A Historical Perspective
Authors: Ledebo Ingrid
Published: February 2013

Hemodiafiltration (HDF) was created in the late 1970s to combine the best of hemodialysis (HD) and hemofiltration, i.e. superior removal of both small and large solutes. Thus, optimal conditions for both diffusion and convection are required. The need for large volumes of sterile fluid has shaped the evolution of HDF, and regulatory issues around systems for on-line fluid preparation have delayed the clinical development of the therapy. Not until such systems became generally available in the mid-1990s was it possible to increase the efficiency of HDF therapy to match and exceed the upgrade that had taken place for HD. Results from recent studies indicate that the potential for improving the outcome of dialysis lies in increasing the convective clearance of HDF above that of high-flux HD.
The Neuroanatomy of Herophilus
Authors: Pearce J.M.S.
Published: February 2013

Herophilus (ca. 330 to ca. 260 BC) was one of Hellenistic -Alexandria's renowned scholars, a leading physician, often named the ‘Father of Anatomy'. From cadaveric dissections and possibly vivisection Herophilus considered the ventricles to be the seat of the soul, intelligence and mental functions. Herophilus introduced the term rete mirabile found in ungulates but not in man, as opposed to Galen, who erroneously believed it a vital human network. A founder of the principles of observations in science, and an exponent of measurements in medicine, his accurate dissections resulted in original anatomical discoveries. He distinguished nerves that produce voluntary motion from blood vessels, and motor from sensory nerves; the nerves of the spinal cord were directly linked to the brain. He identified at least seven pairs of cranial nerves. Herophilus demonstrated the meninges, and ventricles, regarding the fourth as most important. His name is perpetuated by his accounts of the calamus scriptorius and the confluence of venous sinuses the torcular Herophili.
Optimal Composition of Dialysis Fluid for On-Line Hemodiafiltration in Central Dialysis Fluid Delivery System
Authors: Tomo Tadashi
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we propose ‘the preferred composition of dialysis fluid for on-line hemodiafiltration (HDF) in central dialysis fluid delivery system, (CDDS)': sodium concentration 138-140 mEq/l; potassium concentration 2.0 mEq/l; calcium concentration 2.5-3.5 mEq/l; glucose concentration 1.0-1.5 g/l; buffer: bicarbonate (acetate free is preferred). Concentrations of electrolytes in dialysis fluid (= substitution fluid) are applied to the compositions of launched dialysis fluid in Japan. From the viewpoint of biocompatibility and correction of metabolic acidosis, acetate-free bicarbonate buffer is thought to be important. This proposal of the preferred composition of dialysis fluid for on-line HDF in CDDS is based on a few reports. Further investigations and research to reveal the optimal composition of dialysis fluid for on-line HDF are expected in the future.
Biomarkers for Evaluation of Clinical Outcomes of Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Sakurai Kenji
Published: February 2013

β2-Microglobulin (β2-MG) is the substance that causes dialysis amyloidosis, and its predialysis value is useful for evaluating the quality of dialysis therapy itself. In addition, β2-MG is also an important biomarker for evaluating the removal performance of hemodialysis and hemodiafiltration (HDF). However, since β2-MG has a molecular weight of 11.8 kDa and can be efficiently removed by diffusion with existing high-performance dialyzers, a higher molecular weight substance should be used for evaluating removal performance of HDF, in which diffusion and convection are performed simultaneously. α1-Microglobulin (α1-MG) has a molecular weight of 33 kDa, and it is removed by convection during dialysis. When we used α1-MG to evaluate the removal performance of HDF in a study based on our own cases, we were able to describe the distinctive features and benefits of HDF with precision. α1-MG removal rate exactly paralleled the changes in symptoms. Kt/V and the β2-MG removal rate, however, did not undergo significant changes as the symptoms fluctuated. α1-MG should be used as a biomarker for evaluation of clinical outcomes of HDF.
What Have We Learned from CONTRAST?
Authors: Mostovaya Ira M. , Blankestijn Peter J. ,   On behalf of the CONTRAST group
Published: February 2013

The CONvective TRAnsport STudy (CONTRAST) is a large randomized controlled trial which compared on-line postdilution hemodiafiltration and low-flux hemodialysis in terms of mortality and cardiovascular events. This review summarizes and discusses currently available knowledge acquired by CONTRAST, including the main outcome, comparisons of hemodiafiltration to hemodialysis as well as studies performed in subgroups of CONTRAST.
Patient Selection and Prescription of On-Line HDF in Japan
Authors: Kimata Naoki
Published: February 2013

Renal replacement therapy for end-stage kidney disease can be achieved by several interventions including hemodialysis (HD), hemodiafiltration (HDF), peritoneal dialysis (PD) and kidney transplantation, and others. The December 31, 2011 prevalent population included 270,072 patients on HD, 9,094 on PD and 14,051 on HDF; the total treated ESRD population thus rose above 300,000. In contrast, the number of HDF patients decreased after 2007, one of the reasons for Japan's health insurance system. On-line HDF patients were preferentially selected because of their younger age, longer vintage and their lower clinical comorbidity conditions than HD or off-line HDF patients. However, on-line HDF was approved by Japan's health insurance system in 2012. Owing to this approval the number of on-line HDFs may increase in the future.
Impetigo Herpetiformis during Pregnancy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gao Qian-Qian , Xi Ming-Rong , Yao Qiang
Published: February 2013

Background: Impetigo herpetiformis (IH) is a rare pustular dermatosis that typically occurs in pregnant women with unknown etiology. Case Report: We report an 18-year-old primigravida who presented with IH at nearly 30 weeks' gestation and was the first patient reported in mainland China. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly in spite of treatment with corticosteroids and antibiotics, so we decided to terminate the pregnancy by induction of labor. After vaginal delivery she developed fever and her skin lesions did not disappear naturally. Fortunately her symptoms were resolved with the treatment of antibiotics and acitretin, and at day 60 postpartum her skin lesions had completely disappeared. Conclusion: Although IH is associated with high mortality and morbidity in both fetus and mother, a better prognosis could be achieved with an immediate diagnosis and proper treatment. The etiology of IH needs to be further explored and the process of diagnosis and therapy should be standardized.
O-Methylated Metabolite of 7,8-Dihydroxyflavone Activates TrkB Receptor and Displays Antidepressant Activity
Authors: Liu Xia , Qi Qi , Xiao Ge , Li Jingyu , Luo Hongbo R. , Ye Keqiang
Published: February 2013

7,8-Dihydroxyflavone (7,8-DHF) acts as a TrkB receptor-specific agonist. It mimics the physiological actions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and demonstrates remarkable therapeutic efficacy in animal models of various neurological diseases. Nonetheless, its in vivo pharmacokinetic profiles and metabolism remain unclear. Here we report that 7,8-DHF and its O-methylated metabolites distribute in mouse brain after oral administration. Both hydroxy groups can be mono-methylated, and the mono-methylated metabolites activate TrkB in vitro and in vivo. Blocking methylation, using COMT inhibitors, diminishes the agonistic effect of TrkB activation by 7,8-DHF or 4′-dimethylamino-7,8-DHF, supporting the contribution of the methylated metabolite to TrkB activation in mouse brain. Moreover, we have synthesized several methylated metabolite derivatives, and they also potently activate the TrkB receptor and reduce immobility in both forced swim test and tail suspension test, indicating that these methylated metabolites may possess antidepressant activity. Hence, our data demonstrate that 7,8-DHF is orally bioavailable and can penetrate the brain-blood barrier. The O-methylated metabolites are implicated in TrkB receptor activation in the brain.
Chronic Ocular Hypertension after Treated Multifocal Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Papadopoulos Theodoros Athanassios , Vrouva Georgia , Bafa Maria , Paterakis Nikolaos , Chounta Maria
Published: February 2013

Purpose: To report an unusual case of multifocal bacterial keratitis that despite success-ful treatment caused chronic ocular hypertension. Methods: A 67-year-old woman with unilateral multifocal keratitis and no previous ocular pathology was admitted to our hospital. Corneal scrapings and conjunctival samples were obtained for culture and the patient received intensive therapy with fortified vancomycin and tobramycin eye drops. Results: The cultures demonstrated two strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis, one resistant to ciprofloxacin and both sensitive to vancomycin. Treatment was effective and gradually discontinued after total cessation of the inflammatory activity. During the follow-up period, the patient developed late and persistent ocular hypertension of unknown etiology, in absence of any detectable inflammation or complication, and received permanent antiglaucoma therapy. Conclusion: Differential diagnosis between fungal and bacterial infection is critical in cases of multifocal keratitis. Patients with multifocal bacterial keratitis may need intraocular pressure monitoring, even after complete infection healing.
Precluded or Precedent-Setting? The “NATO Enlargement Question” in the Triangular Bonn-Washington-Moscow Diplomacy of 1990–1991
Authors: Spohr Kristina
Published: February 2013

Controversy arose in the mid-1990s when Russian officials accused Western governments of reneging on binding pledges made to Moscow in 1990 during German unification diplomacy. According to the allegations, Western leaders had solemnly promised that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) would never expand beyond Germany into Central and Eastern Europe. Were such pledges ever made? Was the Soviet Union betrayed, and if so, by whom, how, and when? Or have various tactical comments been misinterpreted in hindsight? This article seeks to offer new answers to these questions by exploring not simply U.S.-Soviet-West German triangular diplomacy in 1990 but also the evolution of different approaches, ideas, and visions regarding Germany's security arrangements and the wider European security architecture. These ideas were floated publicly and privately, at home and abroad, by Chancellor Helmut Kohl, Foreign Minister Hans-Dietrich Genscher, and other senior West German officials. In showing how ultimately a “unified Germany in NATO” came about after months of intense diplomacy in 1990 to resolve the “German question,” this article refutes the recently made claim that the extension of full membership to the whole of Germany was a precedent-setting expansion of NATO.