bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active von Willebrand factor predicts 28-day mortality in patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome
Authors: Hyseni Agon , Kemperman Hans , de Lange Dylan W. , Kesecioglu Jozef , de Groot Philip G. , Roest Mark
Published: January 2014

Key Points

von Willebrand factor in its glycoprotein Ib conformation predicts 28-day mortality and could be a useful addition to the APACHE-IV score.
Optimality conditions for pessimistic semivectorial bilevel programming problems
Authors: Liu Bingbing , Wan Zhongping , Chen Jiawei , Wang Guangmin
Published: January 2014

In this paper, a class of pessimistic semivectorial bilevel programming problems is investigated. By using the scalarization method, we transform the pessimistic semivectorial bilevel programming problem into a scalar objective optimization problem with inequality constraints. Furthermore, we derive a generalized minimax optimization problem using the maximization bilevel optimal value function, of which the sensitivity analysis is constructed via the lower-level value function approach. Using the generalized differentiation calculus of Mordukhovich, the first-order necessary optimality conditions are established in the smooth setting. As an application, we take the optimality conditions of the bilevel programming problems with multiobjective lower level problem when the lower level multiobjective optimization problem is linear with respect to the lower-level variables.

MSC:90C26, 90C30, 90C31, 90C46.
Identification of a major locus interacting with MC1R and modifying black coat color in an F2 Nellore-Angus population
Authors: Hulsman Hanna Lauren L , Sanders James O , Riley David G , Abbey Colette A , Gill Clare A
Published: January 2014

Background

In cattle, base color is assumed to depend on the enzymatic activity specified by the MC1R locus, i.e. the extension locus, with alleles coding for black (E

D
), red (e), and wild-type (E

+
). In most mammals, these alleles are presumed to follow the dominance model of E

D
 > E

+
 > e, although exceptions are found. In Bos indicus x Bos taurus F2 cattle, some E

D

E

+
heterozygotes are discordant with the dominance series for MC1R and display various degrees of red pigmentation on an otherwise predicted black background. The objective of this study was to identify loci that modify black coat color in these individuals.

Results

Reddening was classified with a subjective scoring system. Interval analyses identified chromosome-wide suggestive (P < 0.05) and significant (P < 0.01) QTL on bovine chromosomes (BTA) 4 and 5, although these were not confirmed using single-marker association or Bayesian methods. Evidence of a major locus (F = 114.61) that affects reddening was detected between 60 and 73 Mb on BTA 6 (Btau4.0 build), and at 72 Mb by single-marker association and Bayesian methods. The posterior mean of the genetic variance for this region accounted for 43.75% of the genetic variation in reddening. This region coincided with a cluster of tyrosine kinase receptor genes (PDGFRA, KIT and KDR). Fitting SNP haplotypes for a 1 Mb interval that contained all three genes and centered on KIT accounted for the majority of the variation attributed to this major locus, which suggests that one of these genes or associated regulatory elements, is responsible for the majority of variation in degree of reddening.

Conclusions

Recombinants in a 5 Mb region surrounding the cluster of tyrosine kinase receptor genes implicated PDGFRA as the strongest positional candidate gene. A higher density marker panel and functional analyses will be required to validate the role of PDGFRA or other regulatory variants and their interaction with MC1R for the modification of black coat color in Bos indicus influenced cattle.
Incorporating the type and direction information in predicting novel regulatory interactions between HIV-1 and human proteins using a biclustering approach
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Anirban , Ray Sumanta , Maulik Ujjwal
Published: January 2014

Background

Discovering novel interactions between HIV-1 and human proteins would greatly contribute to different areas of HIV research. Identification of such interactions leads to a greater insight into drug target prediction. Some recent studies have been conducted for computational prediction of new interactions based on the experimentally validated information stored in a HIV-1-human protein-protein interaction database. However, these techniques do not predict any regulatory mechanism between HIV-1 and human proteins by considering interaction types and direction of regulation of interactions.

Results

Here we present an association rule mining technique based on biclustering for discovering a set of rules among human and HIV-1 proteins using the publicly available HIV-1-human PPI database. These rules are subsequently utilized to predict some novel interactions among HIV-1 and human proteins. For prediction purpose both the interaction types and direction of regulation of interactions, (i.e., virus-to-host or host-to-virus) are considered here to provide important additional information about the regulation pattern of interactions. We have also studied the biclusters and analyzed the significant GO terms and KEGG pathways in which the human proteins of the biclusters participate. Moreover the predicted rules have also been analyzed to discover regulatory relationship between some human proteins in course of HIV-1 infection. Some experimental evidences of our predicted interactions have been found by searching the recent literatures in PUBMED. We have also highlighted some human proteins that are likely to act against the HIV-1 attack.

Conclusions

We pose the problem of identifying new regulatory interactions between HIV-1 and human proteins based on the existing PPI database as an association rule mining problem based on biclustering algorithm. We discover some novel regulatory interactions between HIV-1 and human proteins. Significant number of predicted interactions has been found to be supported by recent literature.
Large-scale analysis of differential gene expression in coffee genotypes resistant and susceptible to leaf miner–toward the identification of candidate genes for marker assisted-selection
Authors: Cardoso Danielle C , Martinati Juliana C , Giachetto Poliana F , Vidal Ramon O , Carazzolle Marcelo F , Padilha Lilian , Guerreiro-Filho Oliveiro , Maluf Mirian P
Published: January 2014

Background

A successful development of herbivorous insects into plant tissues depends on coordination of metabolic processes. Plants have evolved complex mechanisms to recognize such attacks, and to trigger a defense response. To understand the transcriptional basis of this response, we compare gene expression profiles of two coffee genotypes, susceptible and resistant to leaf miner (Leucoptera coffella). A total of 22000 EST sequences from the Coffee Genome Database were selected for a microarray analysis. Fluorescence probes were synthesized using mRNA from the infested and non-infested coffee plants. Array hybridization, scanning and data normalization were performed using Nimble Scan® e ArrayStar® platforms. Genes with foldchange values +/-2 were considered differentially expressed. A validation of 18 differentially expressed genes was performed in infected plants using qRT-PCR approach.

Results

The microarray analysis indicated that resistant plants differ in gene expression profile. We identified relevant transcriptional changes in defense strategies before insect attack. Expression changes (>2.00-fold) were found in resistant plants for 2137 genes (1266 up-regulated and 873 down-regulated). Up-regulated genes include those responsible for defense mechanisms, hypersensitive response and genes involved with cellular function and maintenance. Also, our analyses indicated that differential expression profiles between resistant and susceptible genotypes are observed in the absence of leaf-miner, indicating that defense is already build up in resistant plants, as a priming mechanism. Validation of selected genes pointed to four selected genes as suitable candidates for markers in assisted-selection of novel cultivars.

Conclusions

Our results show evidences that coffee defense responses against leaf-miner attack are balanced with other cellular functions. Also analyses suggest a major metabolic reconfiguration that highlights the complexity of this response.
Race/ethnicity and HAART initiation in a military HIV infected cohort
Authors: Johnson Erica N , Roediger Mollie P , Landrum Michael L , Crum-Cianflone Nancy F , Weintrob Amy C , Ganesan Anuradha , Okulicz Jason F , Macalino Grace E , Agan Brian K ,   the Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program HIV Working Group
Published: January 2014

Background

Prior studies have suggested that HAART initiation may vary by race/ethnicity. Utilizing the U.S. military healthcare system, which minimizes confounding from healthcare access, we analyzed whether timing of HAART initiation and the appropriate initiation of primary prophylaxis among those at high risk for pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) varies by race/ethnicity.

Methods

Participants in the U.S. Military HIV Natural History Study from 1998-2009 who had not initiated HAART before 1998 and who, based on DHHS guidelines, had a definite indication for HAART (CD4 <200, AIDS event or severe symptoms; Group A), an indication to consider HAART (including CD4 <350; Group B) or electively started HAART (CD4 >350; Group C) were analyzed for factors associated with HAART initiation. In a secondary analysis, participants were also evaluated for factors associated with starting primary PCP prophylaxis within four months of a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3. Multiple logistic regression was used to compare those who started vs. delayed therapy; comparisons were expressed as odds ratios (OR).

Results

1262 participants were evaluated in the analysis of HAART initiation (A = 208, B = 637, C = 479 [62 participants were evaluated in both Groups A and B]; 94% male, 46% African American, 40% Caucasian). Race/ethnicity was not associated with HAART initiation in Groups A or B. In Group C, African American race/ethnicity was associated with lower odds of initiating HAART (OR 0.49, p = 0.04). Race and ethnicity were also not associated with the initiation of primary PCP prophylaxis among the 408 participants who were at risk.

Conclusions

No disparities in the initiation of HAART or primary PCP prophylaxis according to race/ethnicity were seen among those with an indication for therapy. Among those electively initiating HAART at the highest CD4 cell counts, African American race/ethnicity was associated with decreased odds of starting. This suggests that free healthcare can potentially overcome some of the observed disparities in HIV care, but that unmeasured factors may contribute to differences in elective care decisions.
The effect of antiviral therapy on hepatitis C virus-related thrombocytopenia: a case report
Authors: Lebano Rita , Rosato Valerio , Masarone Mario , Romano Marco , Persico Marcello
Published: January 2014

Background

Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura is an immunological disorder characterized by increased platelet destruction due to presence of anti-platelet autoantibodies. Hepatitis C virus infection, which is one of the most common chronic viral infections worldwide, may cause secondary chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 51-year-old Caucasian female with hepatitis C virus infection who developed a severe, reversible, immune thrombocytopenia. Platelet count was as low as 56.000/mm3, hepatitis C virus serology was positive, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase and gamma-glutamyltransferase serum levels were elevated. Disorders potentially associated with autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura were ruled out. A corticosteroid treatment was started and led to an increase in platelet count. The patient was then treated with pegylated-interferon alpha 2a and ribavirin. After four weeks of treatment hepatitis C virus - ribonucleic acid became undetectable and steroid treatment was discontinued. Six months of antiviral therapy achieved a sustained biochemical and virological response together with persistence of normal platelet count.

Conclusion

In our case report hepatitis C virus seemed to play a pathogenic role in autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura. Moreover, the successful response (negative hepatitis C virus - ribonucleic acid) to tapered steroids and antiviral therapy was useful to revert thrombocytopenia.
Purification and characterization of a specific late-larval esterase from two species of the Drosophila repleta group: contributions to understand its evolution
Authors: Lopes Vanessa F , Cabral Hamilton , Machado Luciana PB , Mateus Rogério P
Published: January 2014

Background

After duplication, one copy of an original gene can become redundant and decay toward a pseudogene status or functionally diverge. Here, we performed the purification and biochemical characterization of EST-4 (a late larval β-esterase) from two Drosophila repleta group species, Drosophila mulleri and Drosophila arizonae, in order to establish comparative parameters between these enzymes in these species and to contribute to better understand their evolution.

Results

In D. mulleri, EST-4 had an optimal activity in temperatures ranging from 40° to 45°C and at pH 7.5, maintaining stability in alkaline pH (8.0 to 10.0). It was classified as serine esterase as its activity was inhibited by PMSF. No ion negatively modulated EST-4 activity, and iron had the most positive modulating effect. In D. arizonae, it showed similar optimum temperature (40°C), pH (8.0), and was also classified as a serine esterase, but the enzymatic stability was maintained in an acidic pH (5.5 to 6.5). Fe+2 had the opposite effect found in D. mulleri, that is, negative modulation. Al+3 almost totally inhibited the EST-4 activity, and Na+ and Cu+2 had a positive modulation effect. Kinetic studies, using ρ-nitrophenyl acetate as substrate, showed that EST-4 from D. mulleri had higher affinity, while in D. arizonae, it showed higher V
max and catalytic efficiency in optimal reaction conditions.

Conclusions

EST-4 from D. mulleri and D. arizonae are very closely related and still maintain several similar features; however, they show some degree of differentiation. Considering that EST-4 from D. mulleri has more conspicuous gel mobility difference among all EST-4 studied so far and a lower catalytic efficiency was observed here, we proposed that after duplication, this new copy of the original gene became redundant and started to decay toward a pseudogene status in this species, which probably is not occurring in D. arizonae.
Comparative study of the adsorption of acetaminophen on activated carbons in simulated gastric fluid
Authors: Rey-Mafull Carlos A , Tacoronte Juan E , Garcia Raquel , Tobella Jorge , Llópiz Julio C , Iglesias Alberto , Hotza Dachamir
Published: January 2014

Samples of commercial activated carbons (AC) obtained from different sources: Norit E Supra USP, Norit B Test EUR, and ML (Baracoa, Cuba) were investigated. The adsorption of acetaminophen, Co = 2500 mg/L, occured in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) at pH 1.2 in contact with activated carbon for 4 h at 310 K in water bath with stirring. Residual acetaminophen was monitored by UV visible. The results were converted to scale adsorption isotherms using alternative models: Langmuir TI and TII, Freundlich, Dubinin-Radushkevich (DR) and Temkin. Linearized forms of the characteristic parameters were obtained in each case. The models that best fit the experimental data were Langmuir TI and Temkin with R2 ≥0.98. The regression best fits followed the sequence: Langmuir TI = Temkin > DR > LangmuirTII > Freundlich. The microporosity determined by adsorption of CO2 at 273 K with a single term DR regression presented R2 > 0.98. The adsorption of acetaminophen may occur in specific sites and also in the basal region. It was determined that the adsorption process of acetaminophen on AC in SGF is spontaneous (ΔG <0) and exothermic (−ΔHads.). Moreover, the area occupied by the acetaminophen molecule was calculated with a relative error from 7.8 to 50%.
Pharmaceutical company perspectives on current safety risk communications in Japan
Authors: Urushihara Hisashi , Kobashi Gen , Masuda Hideaki , Taneichi Setsuko , Yamamoto Michiko , Nakayama Takeo , Kawakami Koji , Matsuda Tsutomu , Ohta Kaori , Sugimori Hiroki
Published: January 2014

In 1987, a group infection of hepatitis in patients receiving a contaminated fibrinogen product was first reported to the Japanese regulatory agency. Eventually, this serious drug incident involved more than 10,000 cases of infection. In response, the Government of Japan established a responding inspection committee in 2008 to make recommendations for the restructuring of drug regulatory administration. The final report was issued in 2010. One agenda item of this restructuring was the improvement of drug-related safety risk communications. Our research group on drug safety risk communications, which is funded by the Government of Japan, surveyed pharmaceutical companies regarding their perspective on current risk communications. The survey was conducted using an anonymous questionnaire developed for this study which included the three operational domains of targets, contents, and measures of drug risk communication. Fifty-two of the 74 member companies of the Post-marketing Surveillance Subcommittee of the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturer’s Association participated, and this response rate of more than 70% was considered sufficient to ensure the external validity of the survey results. Results showed that the most highly prioritized aspect of risk messaging was the strength of evidence, and that outcome evaluation of risk communication gained recognition. Further, while physicians and pharmacists were the most prioritized communication targets, pharmacovigilance departments devoted the most resources to regulators, at more than 30%. The Internet was recognized as a useful public source of risk information, whereas Drug Guides for Patients delivered on the web were considered under-recognized. Further discussion of these results with the aim of enhancing the restructuring of the Japanese drug regulatory administration system are warranted.
Mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis: lessons from animal studies
Authors: Totoson Perle , Maguin-Gaté Katy , Prati Clément , Wendling Daniel , Demougeot Céline
Published: January 2014

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease characterized by articular and extra-articular manifestations involving cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which account for 30% to 50% of all deaths. In patients with RA, atherosclerosis lesions occur earlier and have a more rapid evolution than in the general population. Beyond mortality, the impact of CVD on quality of life, combined with the associated increase in health-care costs, renders CVD in RA a major public health problem. Recent studies showed that patients with RA are characterized by the presence of endothelial dysfunction (ED), which is recognized as a key event in the development of atherosclerosis. By definition, ED is a functional and reversible alteration of endothelial cells, leading to a shift of the actions of the endothelium toward reduced vasodilation, proinflammatory state and proliferative and prothrombotic properties. Although the improvement of endothelial function is becoming an important element of the global management of patients with RA, the mechanistic determinants of ED in RA are still poorly understood. Animal models of RA provide the unique opportunity to unravel the pathophysiological features of ED in RA. The present review summarizes the available data on mechanisms underlying ED in animal models of RA and proposes attractive prospects in order to discover novel therapeutic strategies of RA-associated ED.
Pharmacokinetics, hemodynamic and metabolic effects of epinephrine to prevent post-operative low cardiac output syndrome in children
Authors: Oualha Mehdi , Urien Saïk , Spreux-Varoquaux Odile , Bordessoule Alice , D’Agostino Irène , Pouard Philippe , Tréluyer Jean-Marc
Published: January 2014

Introduction

The response to exogenous epinephrine (Ep) is difficult to predict given the multitude of factors involved such as broad pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic between-subject variabilities, which may be more pronounced in children. We investigated the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of Ep, co-administered with milrinone, in children who underwent open heart surgical repair for congenital defects following cardiopulmonary bypass, including associated variability factors.

Methods

Thirty-nine children with a high risk of low cardiac output syndrome were prospectively enrolled. Ep pharmacokinetics, hemodynamic and metabolic effects were analyzed using the non-linear mixed effects modeling software MONOLIX. According to the final model, an Ep dosing simulation was suggested.

Results

Ep dosing infusions ranged from 0.01 to 0.23 μg.kg-1.min-1 in children whose weight ranged from 2.5 to 58 kg. A one-compartment open model with linear elimination adequately described the Ep concentration-time courses. Bodyweight (BW) was the main covariate influencing clearance (CL) and endogenous Ep production rate (q0) via an allometric relationship: CL(BWi) = θCL x (BWi)3/4 and q0(BWi) = θq0 x (BWi )3/4. The increase in heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) as a function of Ep concentration were well described using an Emax model. The effect of age was significant on HR and MAP basal level parameters. Assuming that Ep stimulated the production rate of plasma glucose, the increases in plasma glucose and lactate levels were well described by turnover models without any significant effect of age, BW or exogenous glucose supply.

Conclusions

According to this population analysis, the developmental effects of BW and age explained a part of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics between-subject variabilities of Ep administration in critically ill children. This approach ultimately leads to a valuable Ep dosing simulation which should help clinicians to determine an appropriate a priori dosing regimen.
Role of Multicultural Education in Development of Students’ Motivational and Cognitive Sphere
Authors: Бикбулатова  , Bikbulatova Valentina , Рабаданова  , Rabadanova Raziyat , Юлина  , Yulina Galina
Published: January 2014

The article presents the psychological aspects of education and conditions

of realization of the creative potential of the student´s personality in the educational

activity.
Isothermal Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay Applied to the Detection of Group B Streptococci in Vaginal/Anal Samples
Authors: Daher Rana K , Stewart Gale , Boissinot Maurice , Bergeron Michel G
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Group B streptococcal infections are the leading cause of sepsis and meningitis in newborns. A rapid and reliable method for the detection of this pathogen at the time of delivery is needed for the early treatment of neonates. Isothermal amplification techniques such as recombinase polymerase amplification have advantages relative to PCR in terms of the speed of reaction and simplicity.

METHODS

We studied the clinical performance of recombinase polymerase amplification for the screening of group B streptococci in vaginal/anal samples from 50 pregnant women. We also compared the limit of detection and the analytical specificity of this isothermal assay to real-time PCR (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

Compared to RT-PCR, the recombinase polymerase amplification assay showed a clinical sensitivity of 96% and a clinical specificity of 100%. The limit of detection was 98 genome copies and the analytical specificity was 100% for a panel of 15 bacterial and/or fungal strains naturally found in the vaginal/anal flora. Time-to-result for the recombinase polymerase amplification assay was <20 min compared to 45 min for the RT-PCR assay; a positive sample could be detected as early as 8 min.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate the potential of isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification assay as a clinically useful molecular diagnostic tool that is simple and faster than PCR/RT-PCR. Recombinase polymerase amplification offers great potential for nucleic acid–based diagnostics at the point of care.
Women and posters as heterotopias in Ousmane Sembene’s Xala
Authors: Dima Vlad
Published: January 2014

This article analyses the connections between the female characters of Ousmane Sembene’s Xala and the diegetic posters seen on the walls during the film, which yields a new conversation on Michel Foucault’s heterotopias as utopias or non-spaces. As a result, women, posters and heterotopias define the spatial evolution of the main characters (including the male) as well as that of the film itself.
How text reflects context: Representation of African film audiences in Aristotle’s Plot
Authors: Groof Matthias De
Published: January 2014

This article analyses how Aristotle’s Plot reflects on the context of film-making and film reception in Africa. Aristotle’s Plot represents the relation between an African film-maker and African film audiences consuming foreign movies and disapproving African cinema. The problem of how the production and consumption of African cinema is affected by the importation of films crafted elsewhere cannot be reduced to the question how to make African films available for their audiences. Neither can the problem solely be posed in terms of the alienation of African audiences and film-makers. In Aristotle’s Plot, Bekolo caricatures both the African film-maker (E.T.) and African audiences (Cinema) and thereby translates two views on spectatorship. However, the film itself suggests a perspective on spectatorship and film-making beyond the opposition of appropriation on the one hand and alienation on the other.
Film cities and competitive advantage: Development factors in South African film
Authors: Tomaselli Keyan G.
Published: January 2014

The post-apartheid film industry is a contested space. This study examines the nature of competitiveness, the idea of film precincts and film and media cities, through the prism of Michael Porter’s Diamond Model for competitive advantage. Issues of globalization, cultural policy and sector development are discussed with regard to linking micro with macro developments in production, distribution and audience development in South Africa. The study examines micro-macro relations within holistic value chain circuits that connect production (small and large scale) with exhibition (in the form of an employment-generating, national roll out of modular-based mini-cinema complexes). Overall, this article delineates the broad parameters of an on-going research project.
Evaluation of Flexible Pavement Mixtures Using Conventional Tests and Ultrasonic Wave Propagation
Authors: Abd Elhafeez Tharwat , Amer Reda , Saad Ahmed , El Kady Hassan , Madi Mohamed
Published: January 2014

This paper presents the results of experimental investigation of flexible pavement dense-graded bituminous wearing course (BWC) and stone matrix asphalt (SMA) for performance and resistance to permanent deformation. Two mixtures of BWC were prepared using different aggregate gradations of crushed dolomite rocks with natural and crushed sands, and 60/70 grade unmodified bitumen. Two mixtures of SMA were prepared from crushed dolomite aggregates with crushed dust and polymer modified binder. Crumb rubber and reclaimed polyethylene were used as modifiers to improve the viscoelastic behavior and rheological properties of 60/70 grade bitumen. Laboratory prepared specimens evaluated using binder properties tests and mixture performance tests including draindown, loaded wheel, marshall, and indirect tensile strength (ITS), and ultrasonic. The results of conventional tests show that a mixture of BWC with crushed sand and SMA with crumb rubber have the highest stability and ITS, with greater reduction in rut depth than the other mixtures. Ultrasonic results show that a mixture of BWC with crushed sand and SMA with crumb rubber have higher elasticity value and failure stress and lower failure strain than the other mixtures. We conclude that variations occur because of changes of aggregate properties, packing of aggregate through the compaction, binder content, and type of modified binders. Ultrasonic wave propagation tests may also be used to evaluate pavement design and performance, as well as conventional tests.
Finite Element Model of Pavement Response Under Load Considering Cross-Anisotropy in Unbound Layers
Authors: Tarefder R. A. , Ahmed M. U. , Islam M. R. , Rahman M. T.
Published: January 2014

The effects of cross-anisotropy of unbound layer materials on the stress-strain response of a pavement under 18 kip truck load are determined at three temperatures employing a dynamic finite element model (FEM) in ABAQUS. Viscoelastic behavior of asphalt materials are characterized by Prony series coefficients estimated from a laboratory dynamic modulus test. Nonlinear elastic behavior of base material is incorporated in ABAQUS through a User Defined Material (UMAT) subroutine. Sub-base and subgrade materials are modeled as linear elastic material using the falling weight deflectometer (FWD) back-calculated moduli and Poisson's ratio. Cross-anisotropy is introduced in the FEM model by changing the ratio of horizontal to vertical stiffness (n-value) of unbound layers, namely base, sub-base, and subgrade layers of an instrumented pavement. The FEM model is validated using field collected stress-strain responses under FWD loading from the instrumented pavement section at mile post 141 (MP 141) on Interstate 40 (I-40) near Albuquerque, NM. It is observed that the tensile strain, transverse to the traffic direction, at the bottom of the asphalt concrete (AC) layer is significantly influenced by the cross-anisotropy of unbound layers. The vertical strain in the AC layer is barely affected by the cross-anisotropy. However, vertical strains in the unbound layers are significantly affected by cross-anisotropy. Therefore, it can be postulated that fatigue damage that is caused by tensile strain at the bottom of the AC layer, and unbound layer rutting that is caused by vertical strain, should be evaluated for unbound layer cross-anisotropy in the design and evaluation of pavements. Overall, strain responses due to cross-anisotropy are highly sensitive to temperature.
Depth Profiling of Residual Stress for Shot-Peened “U”-Bend Alloy-800 Tubes for the PHWR Steam Generator
Authors: Kalpana Nayak I. , Ramana Rao S. V. , Kapoor K.
Published: January 2014

Residual tensile stresses influence the mechanical behavior in terms of fatigue and fracture resistance, stress corrosion behavior, and dimensional stability of critical components of nuclear reactors. Glass-bead shot-peened “U”-bend Alloy-800 tubes are used as steam generators in pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs), where stress corrosion cracking is the common cause of its premature failure. Therefore, compressive residual stresses are induced by glass-bead shot peening to overcome the tensile stresses generated more along the bend region. The variation of these compressive residual stresses as a function of depth from the surface has been estimated by successive material removal followed by stress measurement. Optimization of electropolishing parameters for removal of a fixed amount of material is carried out. Stepwise removal of material by electropolishing is proved to be better for stress analysis instead of removal “at-a-time.” Effect of shot-peening pressure is also studied as a function of stress pattern developed along the depth from the surface of the straight tube and bent tube.
Short Creep-Fatigue Crack Growth in an Advanced 9 %Cr Steel
Authors: Yan Wentao , Holdsworth Stuart , Kühn Ingo , Mazza Edoardo
Published: January 2014

While the development of short cracks due to cyclic elastic loading has been relatively widely studied, in particular at room temperature, their consideration for cyclic inelastic loading at high temperatures and lower frequencies is not so common. Short creep-fatigue crack growth rates may be correlated in terms of cyclic strain range, cyclic J-integral or strain energy density factor, with appropriate allowance for associated creep damage accumulation. Candidate approaches are evaluated with reference to test results generated for an advanced 9 %Cr turbine rotor steel. This paper promotes the use of cyclic strain range and strain energy density factor relative to other candidate correlating parameters in relation to the results of a series of 30 min hold time creep-fatigue tests performed using fully instrumented uniaxial specimens with short crack starters. The focus of the testing campaign is an advanced 9 %Cr turbine rotor steel at temperatures of 600 and 625°C.
Adrenal insufficiency in acute oral opiate therapy
Authors: Policola Caterina , Stokes Victoria , Karavitaki Niki , Grossman Ashley
Published: January 2014

Opiate drugs such as morphine are in extensive use for pain relief and palliation. It is well established that these drugs can cause changes in endocrine function, but such effects are not always sufficiently appreciated in clinical practice, especially in relation to the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Herein, we report on an 18-year-old man who was diagnosed with a slipped left femoral epiphysis following a long history of pain in his leg. On examination, he was thought to look relatively young for his age and therefore the orthopaedic surgeons arranged an endocrine assessment, which showed an undetectable concentration of serum cortisol and a suppressed concentration of testosterone; therefore, he was referred urgently with a diagnosis of hypopituitarism. We elicited a history that he had been treated with opiate analgesics for 3 days at the time of his original blood tests. Full endocrine assessment including a short Synacthen test revealed that he now had normal adrenal and pituitary function. We conclude that his morphine therapy had caused profound suppression of his HPA and pituitary–gonadal axes and suggest that clinicians should be aware of these significant changes in patients on even short-term opiate therapy.

Learning points

Therapy with opiates is the standard therapy for severe acute and chronic pain.

Such drugs cause profound changes in endocrine function.

Importantly, opiates suppress the HPA axis at a central level.

Short-term therapy with morphine could be the cause of biochemical adrenocortical insufficiency.

Morphine and related drugs also suppress the pituitary–gonadal axis.

After discontinuation of therapy with such drugs, adrenal function improves.
Preparation of PbTiO3 Nanotubes by Electrophoretic Deposition Method and Effect of the Electrophoretic Voltage on the Wall Thickness
Authors: Adarmanabadi E. Rahmati , Nourmohammadi A. , Feiz M. H. , Lanki M.
Published: January 2014

In the current research, we have utilized sol-gel electrophoresis technique to grow PbTiO3 nanotube arrays in porous anodic alumina template channels. By using this method high quality and more condense nanotubes are obtained compared with other usual sol-gel methods. Also, the effect of the anodizing parameters on the diameter of the template pores, and effect of electrophoresis voltage on wall thickness were investigated.
Size Also Matters in Biodegradable Composite Microfiber Reinforced by Chitosan Nanofibers
Authors: Pinho Elisabete D. , Martins Albino , Araújo José V. , Reis Rui L. , Neves Nuno M.
Published: January 2014

Pioneer works on nanocomposites were focused in carbon nanofibers or nanotubes dispersed in epoxy matrix, a viscous liquid facilitating the compounding stage. The interest in developing new composites aimed for biomedical applications led us to design new nanocomposites based in biodegradable polymers with demonstrated biological performance.

We report herein the development of micro-nano composites by extruding poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) microfibers with two different diameters, 200 and 500 µm, reinforced with electrospun chitosan nanofibers. Analysis of the microfibers showed high levels of alignment of the reinforcing phase and excellent distribution of the nanofibers in the composite. Its geometry facilitates the development of orthotropy, maximizing the reinforcement in the axial fiber main axis.

The biodegradable microfiber composites show an outstanding improvement of mechanical properties and of the kinetics of biodegradation, with very small fractions (0.05 and 0.1 wt.%) of electrospun chitosan nanofibers reinforcement. The high surface area-to-volume ratio of electrospun nanofibers combined with the increased water uptake capability of chitosan justify the accelerated kinetics of biodegradation of the composite as compared with the unfilled synthetic polymer.
Preliminary Investigation of a Sacrificial Process for Fabrication of Polymer Membranes with Sub-Micron Thickness
Authors: Beardslee Luke A. , Khaladj Dimitrius A. , Bergkvist Magnus
Published: January 2014

Here we present a single mask sacrificial molding process that allows ultrathin 2-dimensional membranes to be fabricated using biocompatible polymeric materials. For initial investigations, polycaprolactone (PCL) was chosen as a model material. The process is capable of creating 250-500 nm thin, through-hole PCL membranes with various geometries, pore-sizes and spatial features approaching 2.5 micrometers using contact photolithography. The technique uses a mold created from two layers of lift-off resist (LOR). The upper layer is patterned, while the lower layer acts as a sacrificial release layer for the polymer membrane. For mold fabrication, photoresist on top of the layers of lift-off resist is patterned using conventional photolithography. During development the mask pattern is transferred onto the first LOR layer and the photoresist is removed using acetone, leaving behind a thin mold. The mold is filled with a solution of the desired polymer. Subsequently, both the patterned and lower LOR layers are dissolved by immersion in an alkaline solution. The membrane can be mounted onto support structures pre-release to facilitate handling.
A Novel Injectable Chitosan Sponge Containing Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) to Enhance Human Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells' (OPC) Differentiation
Authors: Mekhail Mina , Cui Qiao-Ling , Almazan Guillermina , Antel Jack , Tabrizian Maryam
Published: January 2014

We developed a rapidly-gelling chitosan sponge crosslinked with Guanosine 5'-Diphosphate (GDP). GDP has not been previously explored as an anionic crosslinker, and it was used in this application since the nucleoside guanosine has been shown to improve remyelination in situ, and thus its presence in the sponge composition was hypothesized to induce Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells' (OPC) differentiation. In addition to the chemical composition tailored to target OPCs, the developed chitosan sponge possesses a wide range of desirable physicochemical properties such as: rapid gelation, high porosity with interconnected pores, moduli of elasticity resembling that of soft tissue and cytocompatibility with many cell types. Moreover, protein encapsulation into the sponges was possible with high encapsulation efficiencies (e.g. BMP-7 and NT-3). In this study, BDNF was encapsulated in the chitosan sponges with an encapsulation efficiency greater than 80% and a sustained release over a 16-day period was achieved. We demonstrate here for the first time, the attachment of human fetal OPCs to the sponges and their differentiation after 12 days of culture. Overall, this newly-introduced injectable sponge is a promising therapeutic modality that can be used to enhance remyelination post-spinal cord injuries.
Nanoprobe Diffusion in Poly(Vinyl-alcohol) Gels and Solutions: Effects of pH and Dehydration
Authors: Boukari Hacène , Silva Candida , Nossal Ralph , Horkay Ferenc
Published: January 2014

We report fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) measurements of the translational diffusion of two fluorescent nanoprobes, rhodamine (R6G) and carboxytetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA), embedded in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) solutions and gels. The diffusion coefficient was measured as a function of the PVA concentration and pH. Furthermore, we designed and built an optical chamber to determine the diffusion coefficient of the nanoprobes within the PVA solutions and gels subjected to controlled dehydration. We find that 1) lowering pH causes an apparent slowing down of the diffusion of the nanoprobes, 2) increase of PVA concentration and crosslink density also induce slowing down of both nanoprobes, and 3) dehydration induces systematic decrease of the diffusion of TAMRA in both solutions and gels. Taken together, these results demonstrate that transient physical interactions between the nanoprobes and the PVA linear polymers have a significant effect upon nanoprobe diffusion.
Selenium Nanoparticles Inhibit Various Bacterial Growth on Paper Towels
Authors: Wang Qi , Webster Thomas J.
Published: January 2014

Bacterial infections are commonly found on paper towels and other paper products leading to the potential spread of bacteria and consequent health concerns. The objective of this in vitro study was to introduce antibacterial properties to paper towel surfaces by coating them with selenium nanoparticles. Results showed that the selenium nanoparticle coated paper towels inhibited the growth of S. Aureus and P. aeruginosa by 80%∼90% after 72 hours compared with the uncoated paper towels. Thus, the study showed that nano-selenium coated paper towels may lead to an increased eradication of bacteria to more effectively clean a wide-range of clinical environments, thus, improving health.
Plasmonic Structures for Near Infrared Applications
Authors: Floris Francesco , Marabelli Franco , Patrini Maddalena , Fornasari Lucia , Quochi Francesco , Figus Cristiana , Bongiovanni Giovanni , Mura Andrea , Saba Michele , Pellecani Paola , Valsesia Andrea
Published: January 2014

We report on the development of a plasmonic-photonic coupled platform based on a plasmonic periodic nanostructure and a host matrix for active media in the visible-near infrared range, constituted by a thin film of sol-gel glass. Here, we report on preliminary results about two main tasks of the research work. On one side, we have studied and optimized the surface that supports plasmonic resonances with tunable wavelengths. On the other side, we focused on improving the sol-gel techniques to form and deposit thin films appropriate for covering the previous surface as well as to protect it (i.e. for sensing applications), embed suitable fluorophores (for active device applications) while avoiding metal-induced radiative emission quenching. Besides structural and optical characterization of the considered structures and films, finite-difference time-domain numerical simulations have been performed, in order to give a feedback on the structure features and thereby interpret its optical response.
Polymer Spraying for Aerosol Jet Etching of Dielectrics for 156-mm Silicon Wafers
Authors: Rodriguez John , Wang Xi , Subbiah Jegadesan , Jie Cui , Lennon Alison J.
Published: January 2014

The front surface of dielectric passivated silicon wafers were spray coated with polyacrylic acid (PAA) using an ultrasonic coating system. A simple model was proposed to correlate the degree of coverage with the number of spray passes. The sprayed PAA films enabled good etching of the dielectric, using a process referred to as aerosol jet etching (AJE), despite the fact that the PAA thickness was non-uniform over the substrate. The AJE tip-to-substrate distance and diameter of the tip were tuned to balance process throughput and the etched line width. Controlling the level of condensation in the aerosol jet printer (AJP) fluid path was critical for etching 156-mm pseudo square silicon wafers.
In situ high temperature X-ray diffraction study of the kinetics of phase separation in the uranium-plutonium mixed oxide (U0.55Pu0.45)O2-x
Authors: VAUCHY Romain , BELIN Renaud.C. , ROBISSON Anne-Charlotte , HODAJ Fiqiri
Published: January 2014

Uranium-plutonium mixed oxides incorporating high amounts of plutonium are considered for future nuclear reactors. For plutonium content higher than 20%, a phase separation occurs, depending on the temperature and on the oxygen stoichiometry. This phase separation phenomenon is still not precisely described, especially at high plutonium content. Here, using an original in situ fast X-ray diffraction device dedicated to radioactive materials, we evidenced a phase separation occurring during rapid cooling from 1773 K to room temperature at the rate of 0.05 and 2 K per second for a (U0.55Pu0.45)O2-x compound under a reducing atmosphere. The results show that the cooling rate does not impact the lattice parameters of the obtained phases at room temperature but their fraction. In addition to their obvious fundamental interest, these results are of utmost importance in the prospect of using uranium-plutonium mixed oxides with high plutonium content as nuclear fuels.
Wettability of Electrochemically Nano-textured Metallic Glasses
Authors: Arora Harpreet Singh , Mukherjee Sundeep
Published: January 2014

Different surface patterns with nanometer length-scales were obtained by electrochemical processing of metallic glasses. The wetting behaviour of these surface patterns was studied using sessile drop technique with distilled water droplet. It is demonstrated that the hydrophilic-hydrophobic nature of the metallic glass surface can be controlled through nano topography. The contact angle was found to increase from 70° for the flat metallic glass surface to 112° for the nano-dendritic structure. Atomic force microscopy was utilized to explain the difference in contact angle in term of the surface roughness for different nano-textures.
Formação de relações regionais em um contexto global: a rivalidade futebolística entre Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo durante a Primeira República
Authors: Peters Christina
Published: January 2014

A internacionalização do futebol e a contínua construção de uma comunidade esportiva transnacional no começo do século XX interagiram com processos de diferenciação nacionais e regionais. O artigo mostra que, no Brasil, o futebol serviu para as elites de São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro construírem e expressarem suas identidades regionais. Adotando uma perspectiva global e regional, busca-se compreender esses processos de diferenciação entre ambas as cidades a partir da análise de determinados eventos esportivos. O texto parte do pressuposto de que identidades e espaços regionais e nacionais são construídos a partir de entrelaçamentos e negociações transnacionais. No caso específico do futebol, visa-se atentar para os efeitos uniformizadores e diferenciadores que o processo de sua globalização implicou.
Influence of glutaraldehyde cross-linking with polymer/heteropolyacid membranes
Authors: Thanganathan Uma , Nogami Masayuki
Published: January 2014

A class of materials that are composed of a combination of glutaraldehyde, phosphotungstic acid and poly(vinyl alcohol) was fabricated, and their structural, thermal and pore-size properties were studied. The obtained results confirmed that the composites could be promising electrolytes for proton-exchange membrane fuel cells operating at low/intermediate temperatures. These results, together with others, are reported and discussed herein.