bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spinal metastasis in thyroid cancer
Authors: Ramadan Sami , Ugas Mohamed A , Berwick Richard J , Notay Manisha , Cho Hyongyu , Jerjes Waseem , Giannoudis Peter V 
Published: October 2012

Abstract

Background
Thyroid carcinoma generally responds well to treatment and spinal metastasis is an uncommon feature. Many studies have looked at the management of spinal metastasis and proposed treatments, plans and algorithms. These range from well-established methods to potentially novel alternatives including bisphosphonates and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, amongst others.
The purposes of this systematic review of the literature are twofold. Firstly we sought to analyse the proposed management options in the literature. Then, secondly, we endeavoured to make recommendations that might improve the prognosis of patients with spinal metastasis from thyroid carcinomas.

Methods
We conducted an extensive electronic literature review regarding the management of spinal metastasis of thyroid cancer.

Results
We found that there is a tangible lack of studies specifically analysing the management of spinal metastasis in thyroid cancer. Our results show that there are palliative and curative options in the management of spinal metastasis, in the forms of radioiodine ablation, surgery, selective embolisation, bisphosphonates and more recently the VEGF receptor targets.

Conclusions
The management of spinal metastasis from thyroid cancer should be multi-disciplinary. There is an absence; it seems, of a definitive protocol for treatment. Research shows increased survival with 131I avidity and complete bone metastasis resection. Early detection and treatment therefore are crucial. Studies suggest in those patients below the age of 45 years that treatment should be aggressive, and aim for cure. In those patients in whom curative treatment is not an option, palliative treatments are available.
Apolipoprotein E gene polymorphism and its effect on anthropometric measures in normoglycemic subjects and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tabatabaei-Malazy Ozra , Fakhrzadeh Hossein , Qorbani Mostafa , Amiri Parvin , Larijani Bagher , Tavakkoly-Bazzaz Javad , Amoli Mahsa M 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
Background
Apolipoprotein E (apo E) plays a major role in lipid metabolism, obesity and accordingly in development of diabetes and coronary heart disease (CHD). Our main objective was to evaluate the association between apo E gene polymorphism with anthropometric measures.

Methods
Participants were selected from zone 17 Tehran/Iran. We assessed height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, serum fasting blood sugar, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Genotyping for apo E gene polymorphism was carried out using PCR-RFLP technique.

Results
Among total study population (n=311), 156 subjects were diabetic. The apo E3/E3 was the most common genotype in our population while E2 and E4 alleles had lower frequencies, respectively. After adjustment for diabetes, the apo E2 and E4 alleles were significantly associated with hypercholesterolemia and WC, respectively (p= 0.009, 0.034). This association was also related to sex and age. The probability of having abdominal obesity in E4 allele carriers was increased from 0.22 to 8.12 in women and to 3.08 in age ≥ 50 years.

Conclusions
Apo E polymorphism had significant influences on WC and total cholesterol level in patients with type 2 diabetes. This study highlights the importance of lifestyle modifications which may be more beneficial in hypercholesterolemic women carriers of E2 and E4 alleles concomitant central obesity.
Respiratory variations of inferior vena cava diameter to predict fluid responsiveness in spontaneously breathing patients with acute circulatory failure: need for a cautious use
Authors: Muller Laurent , Bobbia Xavier , Toumi Mehdi , Louart Guillaume , Molinari Nicolas , Ragonnet Benoit , Quintard Hervé , Leone Marc , Zoric Lana , Lefrant Jean Yves ,   the AzuRea group
Published: October 2012

Abstract
Introduction
To investigate whether respiratory variation of inferior vena cava diameter (cIVC) predict fluid responsiveness in spontaneously breathing patients with acute circulatory failure (ACF).

Methods
Forty patients with ACF and spontaneous breathing were included. Response to fluid challenge was defined as a 15% increase of subaortic velocity time index (VTI) measured by transthoracic echocardiography. Inferior vena cava diameters were recorded by a subcostal view using M Mode. The cIVC was calculated as follows: (Dmax - Dmin/Dmax) × 100 and then receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated for cIVC, baseline VTI, E wave velocity, E/A and E/Ea ratios.

Results
Among 40 included patients, 20 (50%) were responders (R). The causes of ACF were sepsis (n = 24), haemorrhage (n = 11), and dehydration (n = 5). The area under the ROC curve for cIVC was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.60-0.88). The best cutoff value was 40% (Se = 70%, Sp = 80%). The AUC of the ROC curves for baseline E wave velocity, VTI, E/A ratio, E/Ea ratio were 0.83 (95% CI: 0.68-0.93), 0.78 (95% CI: 0.61-0.88), 0.76 (95% CI: 0.59-0.89), 0.58 (95% CI: 0.41-0.75), respectively. The differences between AUC the ROC curves for cIVC and baseline E wave velocity, baseline VTI, baseline E/A ratio, and baseline E/Ea ratio were not statistically different (p = 0.46, p = 0.99, p = 1.00, p = 0.26, respectively).

Conclusion
In spontaneously breathing patients with ACF, high cIVC values (>40%) are usually associated with fluid responsiveness while low values (< 40%) do not exclude fluid responsiveness.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rand Graham K. 
Published: October 2012

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor will be pleased to receive an e-mail from those willing to review a book, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor. The following books are reviewed in this issue of Interfaces, 42(5), September–October 2012: Fundamentals of Traffic Simulation, Jaume Barceló, ed.; Handbook of Terminal Planning, Jürgen W. Böse, ed.; Boolean Models and Methods in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering, Yves Crama and Peter L. Hammer, eds.; Boolean Functions: Theory, Algorithms, and Applications, Yves Crama and Peter L. Hammer, eds.
Unsteady state maximun temperature estimation and localization in a tubular chemical reactor
Authors: Vernieres-Hassimi Lamiae , Abdelghani-Idrissi Ahmed , Seguin Dominique , Mouhab Nordine 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The unsteady state temperature of the reactive mixture along a tubular reactor presents a maximum value resulting from the exothermicity of the chemical reaction.The knowledge of the maximum temperature, (position and value) is an important indicator for safety and quality of reactors in which a highly exothermic reaction takes place. This paper deals with experimental and theoretical estimation and localization of this maximum temperature along a chemical tubular reactor at unsteady state. This reactor is equipped with a jacket in which the refrigerating fluid flows in counter current configuration.The reaction undertaken in the inner tube of the reactor is oxidation of sodium thiosulfate by hydrogen peroxide.The unsteady state is described from the resolution of the model equations, obtained from mass and energy balances, with the numerical method of McCormack.The influences of hydrodynamic, thermal and chemical parameters on the value and position of the maximum temperature are studied.
In vivo Antioxidant and Vasodilating Activities of Gmelina arborea (Verberaceae) Leaves Hexane Extract
Authors: Wansi Sylvie L. , Nyadjeu Paulin , Nguelefack Télesphore Benoît , Fodouop Siaka F. K. , Donatien Atsamo Albert , Kamanyi Albert 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The present study investigated the effects of Gmelina arborea hexane leaves extract on markers of oxidative stress and its vasorelaxant effects on isolated rat aorta, in order to postulate the possible mechanisms involved in the antihypertensive properties of the plant. To evaluate the antioxidant effects of the extract, rats were randomly divided into four groups of five rats each. With the exception to the group receiving Tween (2.5%), the other groups were treated either with NaCl (900mg/kg/day) alone, NaCl (900mg/kg/day) combined with vitamin C (5mg/kg/day) or Gmelina arborea extract (150mg/kg/day). At the end of eight weeks of treatment, animals were sacrificed and some organs as well as blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis. The in vitro vasodilating effects of the extract (0.5-1.5mg/ml) were evaluated using intact and denuded rat thoracic aortic rings or aorta pre-incubated in L-NAME (2µM), indomethacin (2µM) or glibenclamide (2µM) and contracted with phenylephrine (1µM). The in vivo effects of G. arborea hexane extract prevented both left ventricular and vascular hypertrophy, it also modulated lipid metabolism. Moreover, the extract prevented lipid peroxidation, increased superoxide dismutase and catalase activity as well as NO level. On isolated rat aortic rings, the extract induced concentration-dependent vasorelaxant effects. Extract-induced vasodilation was reduced by mechanical denudation of the endothelium as well as pre-treatment with L-NAME, indomethacin or glibenclamide. These results indicate that Gmelina arborea hexane extract possesses bioactive compounds with antioxidant and vasorelaxant properties.
Discretionary vs. Mandatory Prosecution: A Game-Theoretic Approach to Comparative Criminal Procedure
Authors: Nakao Keisuke , Tsumagari Masatoshi 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
Using a game-theoretic model of criminal procedure, we investigate relative merits and demerits of discretionary and mandatory prosecution. The game illustrates a prosecutor's dilemma associated with his two tasks: evidence production and case screening. Discretionary prosecution makes use of incriminating evidence to dispose of weak cases, but discretionary prosecution may suffer the moral-hazard problem in evidence production more seriously than mandatory prosecution. Our welfare analyses suggest that mandatory prosecution outperforms discretionary prosecution when evidence transmission from the prosecutor to the judge is accurate and/or when the cost of litigation incurred by the prosecutor is large.
Physicochemical properties of sodium lignosulfonates (NaLS) modified by laccase
Authors: Zhou Haifeng , Yang Dongjie , Wu Xiaolei , Deng Yonghong , Qiu Xueqing 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The ability of commercial laccase for improvement of the physicochemical properties of sodium lignosulfonate (NaLS) without any mediator has been investigated. Surface tension, adsorption characteristics, rheological behaviors and fluidity of cement pastes were in focus. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) shows an initial decrease and then an extensive increase of molecular weight (MW) of NaLS after incubation with laccase. Parallel to MW decrement, the content of phenolic groups is increasing, while an MW increment has the opposite effect. The UV-Vis spectra and the zeta potential of NaLS do not indicate further modification of the substitution pattern on the aromatic ring. The surface tension of NaLS and the adsorbed amount of NaLS on MgO particles is elevated after laccase treatment. The electrostatic attraction between MgO particles and NaLS is the main driving force during this adsorption process. The dispersion efficiency of laccase modified NaLS on the MgO slurry and cement paste is improved.
Treating birch wood with a switchable 1,8-diazabicyclo-[5.4.0]-undec-7-ene-glycerol carbonate ionic liquid
Authors: Anugwom Ikenna , Mäki-Arvela Päivi , Virtanen Pasi , Willför Stefan , Damlin Pia , Hedenström Mattias , Mikkola Jyri-Pekka 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The suitability of a new switchable ionic liquid (SIL) has been investigated as a solvent for fractionation of lignocellulosic materials. SIL was prepared from inexpensive chemicals, e.g., glycerol, CO2, and 1,8-diazabicyclo-[5.4.0]-undec-7-ene (DBU). Fresh Nordic birch wood (B. pendula) was treated with the SIL for a time period of 1–5 days at 100°C and under atmospheric pressure. Upon SIL treatment, at best, 57% of the hemicelluloses were dissolved and 50% of lignins were dissolved from the native birch. The slightly fibrillated SIL treated chips contained about 55% cellulose. Up to 76% of the recovered species removed from the spent SIL liquor was originating from hemicelluloses, mainly from xylan. The spent SILs were reused for fresh wood dissolution in four consecutive cycles and each time the wood dissolution efficiency was similar. SILs could offer affordable (easy-to-synthesize) solvent systems for partial elimination of hemicelluloses and lignin from wood. SILs can also be prepared in-situ and on-site.
A genetic marker of 4-coumarate: coenzyme A ligase gene in the cinnamaldehyde-chemotype Cinnamomum osmophloeum
Authors: Hsu Keng-Hao , Huang Wen-Ke , Lin Yan-Liang , Chang Shang-Tzen , Chu Fang-Hua 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
There are numerous chemotypes of Cinnamomum osmophloeum in Taiwan, each of which generates an identical profile of volatile secondary metabolites. Cinnamaldehyde is the major constituent of C. osmophloeum and its quantity varies between strains. The cinnamaldehyde-type C. osmophloeum contains abundance of cinnamaldehyde, which is an economically important product, which can be gained from the leaf essential oil. Here, the genes involved in cinnamaldehyde biosynthesis have been investigated and four candidate genes, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (CoPAL), 4-coumarate: coenzyme A ligase 1 and 4 (Co4CL1 and Co4CL4), and cinnamoyl-CoA reductase (CoCCR), were selected as potential molecular marker typical for the cinnamaldehyde chemotype. Cinnamaldehyde was increased in Co4CL1, Co4CL4, and CoCCR transgenic plants. The results showed that the cinnamaldehyde and non-cinnamaldehyde chemotypes can be distinguished by a single nucleotide polymorphism in the substrate binding pocket region of Co4CL4, at residue 378 of Co4CL4. This polymorphism could be used as a potential molecular marker for identification of strains of C. osmophloeum, which belong to high-yield cinnamaldehyde producer type. In addition, this finding might provide a suitable strategy for biosynthesis of bioactive metabolites in the future.
The antagonistic properties of Trichoderma spp. inhabiting woods for potential biological control of wood-damaging fungi
Authors: Lee Jaejung , Huh Nayoon , Hong Joo Hyun , Kim Beom Seok , Kim Gyu-Hyeok , Kim Jae-Jin 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The antagonistic potential of Trichoderma spp. for biological control of wood-damaging fungi was investigated in the present paper. In vitro assays to investigate antifungal characteristics of Trichoderma spp. were conducted with various wood-damaging fungi. Exo-chitinase activity of the isolates was also measured. Three typical wood decayers and three sap-stainers served as target fungi. The antagonistic abilities of each Trichoderma species differed markedly according to the target fungus. The growth inhibition rates shown by the non-volatile metabolites against the wood decayers reached 100% for Trichoderma harzianum KUC1459. The antibiotics produced by Trichoderma dorotheae KUC5027, a recently reported species of Trichoderma, revealed strong antagonistic effects against sap-stainers. Trichoderma gamsii KUC1747 effectively inhibited the growth of all wood-damaging fungi in dual culture tests. The exo-chitinases of Trichoderma longibrachiatum KUC1540, Trichoderma aureoviride KUC1335, and T. harzianum KUC1459 showed significantly high activity.
Investigation of copper solubilization and reaction in micronized copper treated wood by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy
Authors: Xue Wei , Kennepohl Pierre , Ruddick John N.R. 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the reaction chemistry of micronized copper and alkaline copper treatments with wood and to determine how fast copper is solubilized during the reaction between the acidic functionality in wood and the basic copper carbonate (CuCO3). Copper species produced in wood by various treatment methods were analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The effects of time and solution concentration on the spectral parameters of copper complexes in sawdust treated with copper sulfate solutions were examined, followed by study on the structure and the rate of formation of the copper complexes in sawdust treated with basic CuCO3 suspension. The study further attempted to identify the soluble copper species formed in wood during treatment with micronized copper preservatives. Comparisons were made among the fixed copper complexes in wood treated with micronized copper preservatives, copper sulfate solutions, basic CuCO3 suspensions and alkaline copper solution. The results showed rapid formation of fixed copper complexes in wood treated with aqueous suspensions of basic CuCO3. These complexes can resist leaching, and they have similar stereochemistry to those formed between wood and copper sulfate. This finding supports the premises that soluble copper is generated during the treatment of sawdust with basic CuCO3, and it can bond to wood cell components by migrating into the cell wall in a manner similar to other soluble copper species. Such copper complexes formed are different from those of alkaline copper treated wood, which can be easily distinguished by EPR.
Capacitance Measurement of Molten Calcium Silicate under Shear Stress Field
Authors: Sukenaga Sohei , Kusada Kakeru , Saito Noritaka , Nakashima Kunihiko 
Published: October 2012

AbstractThe effect of shear stress on the crystallization behavior of molten 50CaO-50SiO2 (mol%) slag was investigated by in-situ measurements of its electrical capacitance in wide temperature range including supercooled region. It is well known that the electrical capacitance of liquids should be generally much higher than that of solids because of the differences in their respective polarization mechanisms. The difference was employed as a sensitive indicator of the crystallization of molten silicates in an experimental furnace equipped with an electrical-capacitance measurement system. The system comprised a Pt-based alloy crucible and a rotating rod that allow us to evaluate the effect of shear stress, both connected to a capacitance meter (LCR meter).As expected, at a particular temperature, the electrical capacitance of the molten calcium silicate abruptly decreased by roughly three orders of magnitude, which clearly indicated crystallization confirmed by corresponding microstructural analyses. It was also found that, for the rotating-rod measurements (with shear stress), the temperatures at which the capacitance abruptly dropped were higher than that without the shear stress. This suggests that the agitation effect by the rotating-rod accelerates the crystallization of molten calcium silicate.
Recycling of Rubber Tyres in Electric Arc Furnace Steelmaking: Carbon/Slag Reactions of Coke/Rubber Blends
Authors: Zaharia M. , Sahajwalla V. , Saha-Chaudhury N. , O'Kane P. , Fontana A. , Skidmore C. , Knights D. 
Published: October 2012

SynopsisEnd of life tyres are discarded at an alarming rate reflecting the strength of developing countries economy and the intensity of trade and transportation. Conversely, environmental concerns are increasing the need for alternative materials in steelmaking industries. The solution to this problem involves the development of environmentally-friendly technologies that would utilize these waste products. The present study investigates carbon/slag reactions, including slag foaming and FeO reduction, for a range of coke/rubber blends.Off-gas emissions (CO and CO2) were monitored and correlated with dynamic changes in volume as a result of iron oxide rich EAF slag and carbon. The gaseous emissions from metallurgical coke showed lower concentrations in comparison to the emissions from the coke-rubber blends. With an increase of rubber in the blend, gaseous emissions were enhanced. Significant carbon/slag interactions occurred when coke/rubber blends were used, with associated iron oxide reductions within the slag phase.The quantitative estimation of the slag droplet volume was performed by using the Vt/Vo ratio as a measure of slag foaming.These results indicate that partial replacement of coke with rubber is not only viable, but efficient leading to improved interactions with EAF slag.
Production and separation of no-carrier-added
73
As and
75
Se from
7
Li irradiated germanium oxide target
Authors: Mandal Ajoy , Lahiri Susanta 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
This work reports for the first time 7Li-induced accelerator based production of 71,72,73,74As, 75,76,77Br and 73,75Se radionuclides in their no-carrier-added (nca) state. After the decay of all short-lived radionuclides 75Se and 73As were only existing radionuclides in germanium oxide target, which were subsequently separated by liquid-liquid extraction (LLX) using trioctylamine (TOA) dissolved in cyclohexane as liquid ion exchanger. The presence of stable germanium in various fractions was examined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Spectrometry (ICP-OES). At 0.1 M TOA and 10 M HCl concentration, 75Se and stable Ge were extracted into the organic phase leaving 73As in the aqueous phase. The bulk Ge was stripped back to the aqueous phase by 1 M NaOH, keeping 75Se in the organic phase. Therefore complete separation between 73As, 75Se and bulk Ge was achieved.
Hydraulic Fracture Design Optimization in Unconventional Reservoirs – A Case History
Authors: Palisch Terry T. , Chapman Mark A. , Godwin Jonathan 
Published: October 2012

Abstract
Multistage hydraulic fracturing is one of the key technologies affording the successful development of unconventional reservoirs. Transverse fracturing of horizontal wells has become the standard for development of these plays, allowing commercial exploitation of what were once considered uneconomic resources.
The primary goal of the completion in these ultra-low permeability formations is to provide a conductive path to as much rock as possible, through the use of multistage hydraulic fractures along a horizontal lateral. This requires two separate, yet complimentary strategies – a wellbore with optimal length and completion hardware, and multiple hydraulic fractures with optimal conductivity. Most completions engineers have a good understanding of their wellbore and completion hardware; however, many do not have the same level of knowledge of their hydraulic fractures. This leads many to incorrectly assume that fracture conductivity is unimportant. However, the fracture provides the critical link between the formation and the wellbore; without a durable fracture, the completion will fail.
This paper will present a technique to assess the realistic conductivity of the fracture at downhole conditions, describe the relationship between conductivity and productivity, and evaluate the impact of treatment optimization on economics. Use of this approach allows engineers to design their fracture stimulation to maximize the economic potential of their well.
Laboratory data are presented which demonstrate the impact of downhole conditions on proppant performance, including fines migration, elevated temperatures and embedment. In addition, fracture modeling and actual field results will be presented to illustrate the optimization process. Case histories showing the successful implementation of this method will be provided in unconventional gas (Haynesville), a liquids rich formation (Eagle Ford) and an unconventional oil reservoir (Bakken).
This paper will serve as a resource to those engineers who wish to gain a better understanding of hydraulic fractures or desire to maximize the economics of their completions in unconventional plays.