bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE THRESHOLD DECISION MAKING EFFECTUATED BY THE ENUMERATING PREFERENCE FUNCTION
Authors: ALESKEROV FUAD T. , CHISTYAKOV VYACHESLAV V.
Published: December 2013

Based on the leximin and leximax preferences, we consider two threshold preference relations on the set X of alternatives, each of which is characterized by an n-dimensional vector (n ≥ 2) with integer components varying between 1 and m(m ≥ 2). We determine explicitly in terms of binomial coefficients the unique utility function for each of the two relations, which in addition maps X onto the natural 'interval' [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the quotient set of X with respect to the indifference relation I on X induced by the threshold preference. This permits us to evaluate all equivalence classes and indifference classes of the threshold order on X, present an algorithm of ordering the monotone representatives of indifference classes, and restore the indifference class of an alternative via its ordinal number with respect to the threshold preference order.
A TOOL FOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT PERFORMANCE MONITORING (PDPM) FOR ALIGNMENT WITH COMPETITIVE PRIORITIES
Authors: KREMER GÜL E. OKUDAN , AKMAN GÜLŞEN
Published: December 2013

Product Development Process (PDP) has been recognized as a source of competitive profits, and thus, it has received increasing attention. The existing methods for monitoring PDP performance, however, are either cumbersome or fail to connect the competitive priorities to the performance management process. Accordingly, in this paper, a model to evaluate PDP performance is considered as a multi-criteria decision-making problem; and a solution method, based on DEMATEL and ANP, is proposed. The evaluation criteria set was developed using the concept of competitive priorities, and the overall model was applied to an actual data set from a group of machine manufacturers in Turkey. The use scenarios for the model are also discussed.
THE R&D OUTSOURCING DECISION: ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: PATTIT JASON M. , RAJ S. P. , WILEMON DAVID L.
Published: December 2013

We develop a framework for understanding the direct and indirect influence of various strategic considerations and environmental factors on the project-level R&D outsourcing decision. We argue that environmental factors can act as shift parameters that increase or decrease the costs of outsourcing. We further posit that it is important to consider firm-level strategic considerations in addition to the project- and transaction-level characteristics that are typically the focus of an R&D outsourcing decision, which highlights the importance of integrating the information possessed by managers from different levels of the organization. Finally, we discuss several directions for future research in this increasingly important area of innovation and technology management.
DIVIDENDS, CONTROLLING SHAREHOLDERS AND FIRM PERFORMANCE: AN INVESTIGATION OF LARGE FIRMS ON THE HONG KONG STOCK EXCHANGE
Authors: HE TINA T. , LI WILSON X. B. , TANG GORDON Y. N.
Published: December 2013

This study examines whether dividends payout has a positive contribution to firm performance while taking into account the important firm level characteristics such as the divergence between the control rights and the ownership rights of controlling shareholders and firm leverage. Investigating the large firms listed on the Main Board of Hong Kong Stock Exchange over the 1998–2007 period, we find that dividends payout has statistically significantly positive impacts on both return on assets (ROA) and Tobin's Q, particularly after controlling for the nonlinear relation between dividends and firm performance and between control rights of the controlling shareholder and firm performance. The regression results do not show significant interaction effect between dividends payout and control divergence on firm performance. But the impact of dividends payout on firm performance is different in family controlled firms versus state controlled firms and varies with institutional factors.
Acid-sensing ion channels 1a (ASIC1a) inhibit neuromuscular transmission in female mice
Authors: Urbano Francisco J. , Lino Noelia G. , González-Inchauspe Carlota M. F. , González Laura E. , Colettis Natalia , Vattino Lucas G. , Wunsch Amanda M. , Wemmie John A. , Uchitel Osvaldo D.
Published: December 2013

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC) open in response to extracellular acidosis. ASIC1a, a particular subtype of these channels, has been described to have a postsynaptic distribution in the brain, being involved not only in ischemia and epilepsy, but also in fear and psychiatric pathologies. High-frequency stimulation of skeletal motor nerve terminals (MNTs) can induce presynaptic pH changes in combination with an acidification of the synaptic cleft, known to contribute to muscle fatigue. Here, we studied the role of ASIC1a channels on neuromuscular transmission. We combined a behavioral wire hanging test with electrophysiology, pharmacological, and immunofluorescence techniques to compare wild-type and ASIC1a lacking mice (ASIC1a −/− knockout). Our results showed that 1) ASIC1a −/− female mice were weaker than wild type, presenting shorter times during the wire hanging test; 2) spontaneous neurotransmitter release was reduced by ASIC1a activation, suggesting a presynaptic location of these channels at individual MNTs; 3) ASIC1a-mediated effects were emulated by extracellular local application of acid saline solutions (pH = 6.0; HEPES/MES-based solution); and 4) immunofluorescence techniques revealed the presence of ASIC1a antigens on MNTs. These results suggest that ASIC1a channels might be involved in controlling neuromuscular transmission, muscle contraction and fatigue in female mice.
Interferon-γ suppresses activin A/NF-E2 induction of erythroid gene expression through the NF-κB/c-Jun pathway
Authors: Lee Wei-Hwa , Chung Ming-Hui , Tsai Yu-Hui , Chang Ju-Ling , Huang Huei-Mei
Published: December 2013

Interferon (IFN)-γ is a proinflammatory cytokine that is linked to erythropoiesis inhibition and may contribute to anemia. However, the mechanism of IFN-γ-inhibited erythropoiesis is unknown. Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β superfamily, induces the erythropoiesis of hematopoietic progenitor cells. In this study, a luciferase reporter assay showed that IFN-γ suppressed activin A-induced ζ-globin promoter activation in K562 erythroblast cells in a dose-dependent manner. Activin A reversed the suppressive effect of IFN-γ on the luciferase activity of ζ-globin promoter in a dose-dependent manner. IFN-γ also suppressed the activation of activin A-induced α-globin promoter. IFN-γ reduced the mRNA expression of α-globin, ζ-globin, NF-E2p45, and GATA-1 induced by activin A. The results also showed that IFN-γ induced c-Jun expression when NF-κBp65 and c-Jun bound to two AP-1-binding sites on the c-Jun promoter. The luciferase activity of α-globin and ζ-globin promoters were enhanced by wild-type c-Jun and eliminated by dominant-negative (DN) c-Jun. The suppressive effects of IFN-γ on the mRNA expression of α-globin and ζ-globin were absent in cells expressing DN c-Jun. The ability of NF-E2 to enhance activin A-induced ζ-globin promoter activation decreased when c-Jun was present, and IFN-γ treatment further enhanced the decreasing effect of c-Jun. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that NF-E2p45 bound to the upstream regulatory element (HS-40) of the α-globin gene cluster in response to activin A, whereas c-Jun eliminated this binding. These results suggest that IFN-γ modulates NF-κB/c-Jun to antagonize activin A-mediated NF-E2 transcriptional activity on globin gene expression.
Susceptibility of podocytes to palmitic acid is regulated by fatty acid oxidation and inversely depends on acetyl-CoA carboxylases 1 and 2
Authors: Kampe Kapil , Sieber Jonas , Orellana Jana Marina , Mundel Peter , Jehle Andreas Werner
Published: December 2013

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by dyslipidemia with elevated free fatty acids (FFAs). Loss of podocytes is a hallmark of diabetic nephropathy, and podocytes are susceptible to saturated FFAs, which induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and podocyte death. Genome-wide association studies indicate that expression of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) 2, a key enzyme of fatty acid oxidation (FAO), is associated with proteinuria in type 2 diabetes. Here, we show that stimulation of FAO by aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1β-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) or by adiponectin, activators of the low-energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), protects from palmitic acid-induced podocyte death. Conversely, inhibition of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT-1), the rate-limiting enzyme of FAO and downstream target of AMPK, augments palmitic acid toxicity and impedes the protective AICAR effect. Etomoxir blocked the AICAR-induced FAO measured with tritium-labeled palmitic acid. The beneficial effect of AICAR was associated with a reduction of ER stress, and it was markedly reduced in ACC-1/-2 double-silenced podocytes. In conclusion, the stimulation of FAO by modulating the AMPK-ACC-CPT-1 pathway may be part of a protective mechanism against saturated FFAs that drive podocyte death. Further studies are needed to investigate the potentially novel therapeutic implications of these findings.
l-Arginine improves endothelial function, independently of arginine uptake, in aortas from chronic renal failure female rats
Authors: Nesher Nachum , Frolkis Inna , Schwartz Doron , Chernichovski Tamara , Levi Sharon , Pri-Paz Yael , Chernin Gil , Shtabsky Alexander , Ben-Gal Yanai , Paz Yossi , Schwartz Idit F.
Published: December 2013

Endothelial cell dysfunction (ECD) is a common feature of chronic renal failure (CRF). Defective nitric oxide (NO) generation due to decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity is a crucial parameter characterizing ECD. Decreased activity of cationic amino acid transporter-1 (CAT-1), the selective arginine transporter of eNOS, has been shown to inhibit eNOS in uremia. Recently, we failed to demonstrate a decrease in glomerular arginine transport in uremic female rats (Schwartz IF, Grupper A, Soetendorp H, Hillel O, Laron I, Chernichovski T, Ingbir M, Shtabski A, Weinstein T, Chernin G, Shashar M, Hershkoviz R, Schwartz D. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 303: F396–F404, 2012). The current experiments were designed to determine whether sexual dimorphism which characterizes glomerular arginine transport system in uremia involves the systemic vasculature as well and to assess the effect of l-arginine in such conditions. Contractile and vasodilatory responses, ultrastructural changes, and measures of the l-arginine-NO system were performed in thoracic aortas of female rats subjected to ⅚ nephrectomy. The contractile response to KCl was significantly reduced, and acetylcholine-induced vasodilation was significantly impaired in aortas from CRF dames compared with healthy rats. Both of these findings were prevented by the administration of arginine in the drinking water. The decrease in both cGMP generation, a measure of eNOS activity, and aortic eNOS and phosphorylated eNOS abundance observed in CRF rats was completely abolished by l-arginine, while arginine transport and CAT-1 protein were unchanged in all experimental groups. Arginine decreased both serum levels of advanced glycation end products and the asymmetrical dimethylarginine/arginine ratio and restored the endothelial ultrastructure in CRF rats. In conclusion. arginine administration has a profound beneficial effect on ECD, independently of cellular arginine uptake, in CRF female rats.
Gradual mechanics-dependent adaptation of medial gastrocnemius activity during human walking
Authors: Wellinghoff Molly A. , Bunchman Alison M. , Dean Jesse C.
Published: December 2013

While performing a simple bouncing task, humans modify their preferred movement period and pattern of plantarflexor activity in response to changes in system mechanics. Over time, the preferred movement pattern gradually adapts toward the resonant frequency. The purpose of the present experiments was to determine whether humans undergo a similar process of gradually adapting their stride period and plantarflexor activity after a change in mechanical demand while walking. Participants walked on a treadmill while we measured stride period and plantarflexor activity (medial gastrocnemius and soleus). Plantarflexor activity during stance was divided into a storage phase (30–65% stance) and a return phase (65–100% stance) based on when the Achilles tendon has previously been shown to store and return mechanical energy. Participants walked either on constant inclines (0%, 1%, 5%, 9%) or on a variable incline (0–1%) for which they were unaware of the incline changes. For variable-incline trials, participants walked under both single-task and dual-task conditions in order to vary the cognitive load. Both stride period and plantarflexor activity increased at steeper inclines. During single-task walking, small changes in incline were followed by gradual adaptation of storage-phase medial gastrocnemius activity. However, this adaptation was not present during dual-task walking, indicating some level of cognitive involvement. The observed adaptation may be the result of using afferent feedback in order to optimize the contractile conditions of the plantarflexors during the stance phase. Such adaptation could serve to improve metabolic economy but may be limited in clinical populations with disrupted proprioception.
Coexpression of auxiliary Kvβ2 subunits with Kv1.1 channels is required for developmental acquisition of unique firing properties of zebrafish Mauthner cells
Authors: Watanabe Takaki , Shimazaki Takashi , Mishiro Aoba , Suzuki Takako , Hirata Hiromi , Tanimoto Masashi , Oda Yoichi
Published: December 2013

Each neuron possesses a unique firing property, which is largely attributed to heterogeneity in the composition of voltage-gated ion channel complexes. Zebrafish Mauthner (M) cells, which are bilaterally paired giant reticulospinal neurons (RSNs) in the hindbrain and induce rapid escape behavior, generate only a single spike at the onset of depolarization. This single spiking is in contrast with the repetitive firing of the M cell's morphologically homologous RSNs, MiD2cm and MiD3cm, which are also involved in escapes. However, how the unique firing property of M cells is established and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we first demonstrated that the single-spiking property of M cells was acquired at 4 days postfertilization (dpf), accompanied by an increase in dendrotoxin I (DTX)-sensitive low-threshold K+currents, prior to which the M cell repetitively fires as its homologs. Second, in situ hybridization showed that among DTX-sensitive Kv1 channel α-subunits, zKv1.1a was unexpectedly expressed even in the homologs and the bursting M cells at 2 dpf. In contrast, zKvβ2b, an auxiliary β-subunit of Kv1 channels, was expressed only in the single-spiking M cells. Third, zKv1.1a expressed in Xenopus oocytes functioned as a low-threshold K+channel, and its currents were enhanced by coexpression of zKvβ2b subunits. Finally, knockdown of zKvβ2b expression in zebrafish larvae resulted in repetitive firing of M cells at 4 dpf. Taken together, these results suggest that associative expression of Kvβ2 subunits with Kv1.1 channels is crucial for developmental acquisition of the unique firing properties of the M cells among homologous neurons.
Synaptic modulation and inward current produced by oxytocin in substantia gelatinosa neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices
Authors: Jiang Chang-Yu , Fujita Tsugumi , Kumamoto Eiichi
Published: December 2013

Cellular mechanisms for antinociception produced by oxytocin in the spinal dorsal horn have not yet been investigated thoroughly. We examined how oxytocin affects synaptic transmission in substantia gelatinosa neurons, which play a pivotal role in regulating nociceptive transmission, by applying the whole-cell patch-clamp technique to the substantia gelatinosa neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices. Bath-applied oxytocin did not affect glutamatergic spontaneous, monosynaptically-evoked primary-afferent Aδ-fiber and C-fiber excitatory transmissions. On the other hand, oxytocin produced an inward current at −70 mV and enhanced GABAergic and glycinergic spontaneous inhibitory transmissions. These activities were repeated with a slow recovery from desensitization, concentration-dependent and mimicked by oxytocin-receptor agonist. The oxytocin current was inhibited by oxytocin-receptor antagonist, intracellular GDPβS, U-73122, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, but not dantrolene, chelerythrine, dibutyryl cyclic-AMP, CNQX, Ca2+-free and tetrodotoxin, while the spontaneous inhibitory transmission enhancements were depressed by tetrodotoxin. Current-voltage relation for the oxytocin current reversed at negative potentials more than the equilibrium potential for K+, or around 0 mV. The oxytocin current was depressed in high-K+, low-Na+or Ba2+-containing solution. Vasopressin V1A-receptor antagonist inhibited the oxytocin current, but there was no correlation in amplitude between a vasopressin-receptor agonist [Arg8]vasopressin and oxytocin responses. It is concluded that oxytocin produces a membrane depolarization mediated by oxytocin but not vasopressin-V1Areceptors, which increases neuronal activity, resulting in the enhancement of inhibitory transmission, a possible mechanism for antinociception. This depolarization is due to a change in membrane permeabilities to K+and/or Na+, which is possibly mediated by phospholipase C and inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate-induced Ca2+-release.
Fluorescent imaging reports an extracellular alkalinization induced by glutamatergic activation of isolated retinal horizontal cells
Authors: Jacoby Jason , Kreitzer Matthew A. , Alford Simon , Malchow Robert Paul
Published: December 2013

Extracellular acidification induced by retinal horizontal cells has been hypothesized to underlie lateral feedback inhibition onto vertebrate photoreceptors. To test this hypothesis, the H+-sensitive fluorophore 5-hexadecanoylaminofluorescein (HAF) was used to measure changes in H+ from horizontal cells isolated from the retina of the catfish. HAF staining conditions were modified to minimize intracellular accumulation of HAF and maximize membrane-associated staining, and ratiometric fluorescent imaging of cells displaying primarily membrane-associated HAF fluorescence was conducted. Challenge of such HAF-labeled cells with glutamate or the ionotropic glutamate receptor agonist kainate produced an increase in the fluorescence ratio, consistent with an alkalinization response of +0.12 pH units and +0.23 pH units, respectively. This alkalinization was blocked by the AMPA receptor antagonist 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX), the L-type calcium channel blocker nifedipine, and lanthanum. The alkalinization reported by HAF was consistent with extracellular alkalinizations detected in previous studies using self-referencing H+-selective microelectrodes. The spatial distribution of the kainate-induced changes in extracellular H+ was also examined. An overall global alkalinization around the cell was observed, with no obvious signs of discrete centers of acidification. Taken together, these data argue against the hypothesis that glutamatergic-induced efflux of protons from horizontal cells mediates lateral feedback inhibition in the outer retina.
A new method for piercing the tentorium cerebelli for implanting fragile electrodes into the brain stem in the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Wu Jing , Wang Wenchao , Rizak Joshua Dominic , Wang Zhengbo , Wang Jianhong , Feng Xiaoli , Dong Jinrun , Li Lin , Liu Li , Xu Liqi , Yang Shangchuan , Hu Xintian
Published: December 2013

Recent developments in neuron recording techniques include the invention of some fragile electrodes. The fragility of these electrodes impedes their successful use in deep brain recordings because it is difficult to penetrate the electrodes through the dura mater, especially the tentorium cerebelli (TC) enclosing the cerebellum and brain stem. This paper reports a new method to pierce the TC for inserting fragile electrodes into the inferior colliculus of rhesus monkeys. Briefly, a unique tool kit, consisting of needles with sharp tips, a guide tube and an “impactor,” was used in a multistep protocol to pierce the TC. The impactor provided a brief force that quickly thrusts the needles through the meninges without causing significant damage to the brain tissue under the TC. Using this novel approach, tetrodes were successfully implanted into the inferior colliculus of a rhesus monkey and neuronal discharge signals were recorded. This method, which is simple, convenient and economical, allows neurophysiologists to study the electrophysiological characteristics of deep brain structures under the TC with advanced, albeit fragile, electrodes.
Cayley Bipolar Fuzzy Graphs
Authors: Alshehri Noura O. , Akram Muhammad
Published: December 2013

We introduce the concept of Cayley bipolar fuzzy graphs and investigate some of their properties. We present some interesting properties of bipolar fuzzy graphs in terms of algebraic structures. We also discuss connectedness in Cayley bipolar fuzzy graphs.
Performance of Primary Dental Care Services: An Ecological Study in a Large Brazilian City
Authors: Esteves Rita Sibele Souza , Mambrini Juliana Vaz Melo , Oliveira Ana Cristina Borges , Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães
Published: December 2013

This study explored the association between area‐level primary dental care performance and area‐level demographics, dental treatment need, and health care service indicators. An ecological cross‐sectional study was performed in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, in 2010. The 142 primary health care (PHC) units were grouped based on the following variables: access to individual dental treatment, frequency of dental emergencies, and frequency of individual preventive procedures. The independent variables analyzed were demographic variables, dental treatment need, and health care service indicators. The data were obtained from the information systems of the Brazilian Ministry of Health and the city of Belo Horizonte. We explored the associations between membership in a specific PHC cluster type and the independent variables using multinomial logistic regression with a significance level of 5%. Variables such as the high/very high vulnerability of population, rate of completed treatment, and rate of referrals of users to secondary care were independently associated with the clusters (P < 0.05). The performance of primary dental care services was associated with patient demographics, dental treatment need, and referrals. The results of this study have implications for the planning of public policies.
BVRcIc Observations and Analysis of the Near-Contact Solar Type Eclipsing Binary, V530 Andromedae
Authors: Samec Ronald G. , Flaaten Daniel , Kring James , Faulkner Danny R.
Published: December 2013

We present the first precision UBVRcIc light curves, an initial period study, and a simultaneous light curve solution for the near-contact solar type eclipsing binary V530 And. Our observations were taken with the 0.81 m Lowell reflector on 27 and 29 September, 2011, with time being granted from the National Undergraduate Research Observatory (NURO). Our Wilson Devinney Program solution yields a semidetached, V1010 Oph configuration: the more massive component is filling its Roche lobe. The system is apparently approaching contact for the first time. It is not a classic Algol.
The Role of miRNA in Haematological Malignancy
Authors: Gounaris-Shannon Stephanie , Chevassut Timothy
Published: December 2013

Currently, there are over 1,800 annotated human miRNAs, many of which have tissue-specific expression. Numerous studies have highlighted their role in haematopoietic differentiation and proliferation, acting as master regulators of haematopoietic stem cell function. Aberrant expression of miRNAs has been observed in haematological cancers, exhibiting unique expression signatures in comparison to normal counterparts. Functional and target analyses as well as animal models have attempted to annotate how different miRNA may contribute to the pathophysiology of these malignancies from modulating cancer associated genes, functioning directly as oncogenes or tumour suppressor genes or acting as bystanders or regulators of the epigenetic mechanisms in cancer. miRNAs have also been shown to play a role in modulating drug resistance and determining prognosis between the various subtypes of blood cancers. This review discusses the important role that miRNAs play in haematological malignancies by exploring associations that exist between the two and trying to examine evidence of causality to support the tantalising possibility that miRNAs might serve as therapeutic targets in blood cancers.
A Genetic-Algorithms-Based Approach for Programming Linear and Quadratic Optimization Problems with Uncertainty
Authors: Jin Weihua , Hu Zhiying , Chan Christine W.
Published: December 2013

This paper proposes a genetic-algorithms-based approach as an all-purpose problem-solving method for operation programming problems under uncertainty. The proposed method was applied for management of a municipal solid waste treatment system. Compared to the traditional interactive binary analysis, this approach has fewer limitations and is able to reduce the complexity in solving the inexact linear programming problems and inexact quadratic programming problems. The implementation of this approach was performed using the Genetic Algorithm Solver of MATLAB (trademark of MathWorks). The paper explains the genetic-algorithms-based method and presents details on the computation procedures for each type of inexact operation programming problems. A comparison of the results generated by the proposed method based on genetic algorithms with those produced by the traditional interactive binary analysis method is also presented.
Efficacy and Safety of Hepatectomy Performed with Intermittent Portal Triad Clamping with Low Central Venous Pressure
Authors: Topaloglu Serdar , Yesilcicek Calik Kıymet , Calik Adnan , Aydın Coskun , Kocyigit Sema , Yaman Huseyin , Kutanis Dilek , Karabulut Erdem , Dohman Davut , Orem Asim , Arslan Mithat Kerim
Published: December 2013

Background. This retrospective study was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of intermittent portal triad clamping (PTC) with low central venous pressure (CVP) in liver resections.Methods. Between January 2007 and August 2013, 115 patients underwent liver resection with intermittent PTC. The patients’ data were retrospectively analyzed.Results. There were 58 males and 57 females with a mean age of 55 years (±13.7). Cirrhosis was found in 23 patients. Resections were performed for malignant disease in 62.6% (n=72) and for benign disease in 37.4% (n=43). Major hepatectomy was performed in 26 patients (22.4%). Mean liver ischemia period was 27.1 min (±13.9). The mortality rate was 1.7% and the morbidity rate was 22.6%. Cumulative clamping time (t=3.61,P<0.001) and operation time (t=2.38,P<0.019) were significantly correlated with AST alterations (D-AST). Cumulative clamping time (t=5.16,P<0.001) was significantly correlated with D-ALT. Operation time (t=5.81,P<0.001) was significantly correlated with D-LDH.Conclusions. Intermittent PTC under low CVP was performed with low morbidity and mortality. Intermittent PTC can be safely applied up to 60 minutes in both normal and impaired livers.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Carbohydrate Based Schiff Bases: Importance of Sugar Moiety
Authors: Appelt Helmoz R. , Oliveira Julieta S. , Santos Roberto C. V. , Rodrigues Oscar E. D. , Santos Maura Z. , Heck Elisiane F. , Rosa Líria C.
Published: December 2013

A series of D-glucosamine derivatives were synthesized (2–4) and evaluated for their antimicrobial activity. Some of the compounds investigated have shown significant antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains as well as a few fungal strains. The results suggest that the presence of sugar moiety is necessary to biological activity.
Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis in a Toddler: Changing Epidemiological Trends
Authors: Aulakh Roosy , Tiwari Abhimanyu
Published: December 2013

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a devastating “slow virus” brain disease resulting from persistent measles virus infection of neurons. The age at presentation is usually 8 to 11 years with onset usually occurring 2–10 years after measles infection. We report a 2-and-half-year-old boy who presented with progressively increasing myoclonic jerks and subtle cognitive decline. He was diagnosed as a case of SSPE based on clinical features, typical electroencephalographic finding, and elevated cerebrospinal fluid/serum measles antibody titers. He had measles 4 months prior to onset of symptoms. This case along with review of recently published reports suggests progressively decreasing latency period between measles infection and onset of symptoms observed in cases with SSPE. Clinical implication would mean investigating for SSPE even in infants or toddlers with compatible clinical features and recent history of measles infection.
Alginate Encapsulation of Begonia Microshoots for Short‐Term Storage and Distribution
Authors: Sakhanokho Hamidou F. , Pounders Cecil T. , Blythe Eugene K.
Published: December 2013

Synthetic seeds were formed from shoot tips of two in vitro grown Begonia cultivars using 3% sodium alginate in Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) salt solution as the gel matrix and 100 mM calcium chloride for complexation. Synthetic seed formation was achieved by releasing the sodium alginate/explant combination into 100 mM calcium chloride (CaCl2·H2O) solution for 30 or 45 min. Both control and encapsulated shoots were transferred into sterile Petri dishes and stored at 4°C or 22°C for 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks. Conversion of synthetic seeds into plantlets for both storage environments was assessed in MS medium or peat‐based substrate. No significant difference was found between the 30 and 45 min CaCl2·H2O treatments or the two cultivars. Encapsulation of explants improved survival rate over time irrespective of the medium type or storage environment. Survival rates of 88, 53, 28, and 11% for encapsulated microshoots versus 73, 13, 0, and 0% for control explants were achieved in microshoots stored for 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks, respectively. The best results were obtained when synthetic seeds were stored at 4°C and germinated on MS medium. Regenerated plantlets were successfully established in potting soil.
TextTB: A Mixed Method Pilot Study Evaluating Acceptance, Feasibility, and Exploring Initial Efficacy of a Text Messaging Intervention to Support TB Treatment Adherence
Authors: Iribarren Sarah , Beck Susan , Pearce Patricia F. , Chirico Cristina , Etchevarria Mirta , Cardinale Daniel , Rubinstein Fernando
Published: December 2013

Objective. To assess a text messaging intervention to promote tuberculosis (TB) treatment adherence.Methods. A mixed-methods pilot study was conducted within a public pulmonary-specialized hospital in Argentina. Patients newly diagnosed with TB who were 18 or older, and had mobile phone access were recruited and randomized to usual care plus either medication calendar (n=19) or text messaging intervention (n=18) for the first two months of treatment. Primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptability; secondary outcomes explored initial efficacy.Results. Feasibility was evidenced by high access to mobile phones, familiarity with texting, most phones limited to basic features, a low rate of participant refusal, and many describing suboptimal TB understanding. Acceptability was evidenced by participants indicating feeling cared for, supported, responsible for their treatment, and many self-reporting adherence without a reminder. Participants in the texting group self-reported adherence on average 77% of the days whereas only 53% in calendar group returned diaries. Exploring initial efficacy, microscopy testing was low and treatment outcomes were similar in both groups.Conclusion. The texting intervention was well accepted and feasible with greater reporting of adherence using text messaging than the diary. Further evaluation of the texting intervention is warranted.
Improvements in Immune Function and Activation with 48-Week Darunavir/Ritonavir-Based Therapy: GRACE Substudy
Authors: Tsoukas Christos , Gilbert Louise , Lewis Trevor , Hatzakis George , Falcon Ron , Mrus Joseph
Published: December 2013

Objective. During the course of HIV infection, progressive immune deficiency occurs. The aim of this prospective substudy was to evaluate the recovery of functional immunity in a subset of patients from the GRACE (Gender, Race, And Clinical Experience) study treated with a DRV/r-based regimen. Methods. The recovery of functional immunity with a darunavir/ritonavir-based regimen was assessed in a subset of treatment-experienced, HIV-1 infected patients from the GRACE study. Results. 19/32 patients (59%) enrolled in the substudy were virologically suppressed (<50 copies/mL). In these patients, median (range) CD4+ cell count increased from 222 (2, 398) cells/mm3 at baseline to 398 (119, 812) cells/mm3 at Week 48. CD8+% decreased significantly from baseline to Week 48 (P=.03). Proliferation of CD4+ lymphocytes in response to CD3+/CD28+, phytohemagglutinin, and pokeweed was significantly increased (P<.01) by Week 12. Proliferation in response to Candida and tetanus was significantly increased by Week 48 (P<.01 and P=.014, resp.). Staphylococcal enterotoxin B-stimulated tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-2 in CD4+ cells was significantly increased by Week 12 (P=.046) and Week 48 (P<.01), respectively. Conclusions. Darunavir/ritonavir-based therapy demonstrated improvements in CD4+ cell recovery and association with progressive functional immune recovery over 48 weeks. This trial is registered with NCT00381303.
Effect of Different Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease and Renal Replacement Therapies on Oxidant-Antioxidant Balance in Uremic Patients
Authors: Tbahriti Hadja Fatima , Kaddous Abbou , Bouchenak Malika , Mekki Khedidja
Published: December 2013

Oxidative stress seems to be involved in the path physiology of cardiovascular complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this study, we determined the effect of different stages of CKD and substitutive therapies on oxidative stress. One hundred sixty-seven patients (age:44±06years; male/female: 76/91) with CKD were divided into 6 groups according to the National Kidney Foundation classification. Prooxidant status was assessed by assaying thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, hydroperoxides, and protein carbonyls. Antioxidant defence was performed by analysis of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, vitamin E, Iron, and bilirubin. TBARS and LPO were higher in HD patients compared to other groups (P<0.001), while protein carbonyls were more increased in PD patients. The antioxidant enzymes were declined already at severe stage of CKD and they were declined notably in HD patients (P<0.001). Similar observation was found for vitamin E, Fe, and bilirubin where we observed a significant decrease in the majority of study groups, especially in HD patients (P<0.001). The evolution of CKD was associated with elevated OS. HD accentuates lipid, while PD aggravates protein oxidation. However, the activity of antioxidant enzymes was altered by impaired renal function and by both dialysis treatments.
Intragastric Endoscopic Assisted Single Incision Surgery for Gastric Leiomyoma of the Esophagogastric Junction
Authors: Morales-Conde Salvador , Alarcón Isaias , Ortiz-Moyano Carlos , Barranco Antonio , Padillo Francisco J. , Socas María
Published: December 2013

Single port laparoscopic surgery is becoming an alternative to conventional laparoscopic surgery as a new approach where all the conventional ports are gathered in just one multichannel port through only one incision. Appling this technical development, we have developed a new technique based on an intragastric approach using a single port device assisted by endoscopy (I-EASI: intragastric endoscopic assisted single incision surgery) in order to remove benign gastric lesions and GIST tumors placed in the posterior wall of the stomach or close to the esophagogastric junction or the gastroduodenal junction. We present a patient with a submucosal gastric tumor placed near the esophagogastric junction removed with this new approach.
Eigenstates and Eigenvalues of Chain Hamiltonians Based on Multiparameter Braid Matrices for All Dimensions
Authors: Abdesselam B. , Chakrabarti A.
Published: December 2013

We study chain Hamiltonians derived from a class
of multidimensional, multiparameter braid matrices introduced and
explored in a series of previous papers. The N2 × N2 braid
matrices (for all N) have 1/2N2 free parameters for even
N and 1/2N+12-1 for N odd. We present
systematic explicit constructions for eigenstates and eigenvalues
of chain Hamiltonians for N=2,3,4 and all chain lengths r. We
derive explicitly the constraints imposed on these states by
periodic (circular) boundary conditions. Our results thus cover
both open and closed chains. We then indicate how our formalism
can be extended for all N,r. The dependence of the
eigenvalues on the free parameters is displayed explicitly,
showing how the energy levels and their differences vary in a
particular simple way with these parameters. Some perspectives
are discussed in conclusion.
Intrarater and Interrater Reliability of the Flexicurve Index, Flexicurve Angle, and Manual Inclinometer for the Measurement of Thoracic Kyphosis
Authors: Barrett Eva , McCreesh Karen , Lewis Jeremy
Published: December 2013

Objective. This study aimed to describe the interrater and intrarater reliability of the flexicurve index, flexicurve angle, and manual inclinometer in swimmers. A secondary objective was to determine the level of agreement between the inclinometer angle and the flexicurve angle and to provide an equation to approximate one angle from the other.Methods. Thirty swimmers participated. Thoracic kyphosis was measured using the flexicurve and the manual inclinometer. Intraclass correlation coefficient, 95% confidence interval, and standard error of measurement were computed.Results. The flexicurve angle and index showed excellent intrarater (ICC = 0.94) and good interrater (ICC = 0.86) reliability. The inclinometer demonstrated excellent intrarater (ICC = 0.92) and interrater (ICC = 0.90) reliability. The flexicurve angle was systematically smaller and correlated poorly with the inclinometer angle (R2=0.384). The following equations can be used for approximate conversions: flexicurve angle = (0.275 × inclinometer angle) + 8.478; inclinometer angle = (1.396 × flexicurve angle) + 8.694.Conclusion. The inclinometer and flexicurve are both reliable instruments for thoracic kyphosis measurement in swimmers. Although the flexicurve and inclinometer angles are not directly comparable, the approximate conversion factors provided will permit translation of flexicurve angle to inclinometer angle and vice versa.
Dynamics of Space Particles and Spacecrafts Passing by the Atmosphere of the Earth
Authors: Gomes Vivian Martins , Prado Antonio Fernando Bertachini de Almeida , Golebiewska Justyna
Published: December 2013

The present research studies the motion of a particle or a spacecraft that comes from an orbit around the Sun, which can be elliptic or hyperbolic, and that makes a passage close enough to the Earth such that it crosses its atmosphere. The idea is to measure the Sun‐particle two‐body energy before and after this passage in order to verify its variation as a function of the periapsis distance, angle of approach, and velocity at the periapsis of the particle. The full system is formed by the Sun, the Earth, and the particle or the spacecraft. The Sun and the Earth are in circular orbits around their center of mass and the motion is planar for all the bodies involved. The equations of motion consider the restricted circular planar three‐body problem with the addition of the atmospheric drag. The initial conditions of the particle or spacecraft (position and velocity) are given at the periapsis of its trajectory around the Earth.
Catatonic Dilemma in a 33-Year-Old Woman: A Discussion
Authors: Koch Alexander , Reich Karin , Wielopolski Jan , Clepce Marion , Fischer Marie , Kornhuber Johannes , Thuerauf Norbert
Published: December 2013

Case.We report a case of catatonia with elevated CK, elevated temperature, and hypoferritinemia after abrupt discontinuation of clozapine in a patient with known proneness to catatonic symptoms. Reinstatement of clozapine therapy was contraindicated due to leukopenia. Neuroleptic malign syndrome could not be ruled out by the administration of quetiapine; this prevented the quick use of other potent D2 antagonists. Some improvement was achieved through supportive therapy, high dose of lorazepam, and a series of 10 ECT sessions. Returning to baseline condition was achieved by a very careful increase of olanzapine.Discussion.Catatonic symptoms in schizophrenia as well as in NMS might be caused by a lack of striatal dopamine (CS) or dopamine D2 antagonism (NMS). CS might be a “special” kind of schizophrenia featuring both hypo- and hyperactivity of dopaminergic transmission. ECT has been described as a “psychic rectifier” or a “reset for the system.” The desirable effect of ECT in cases of CS might be dopaminergic stimulation in the striatum and decrease of both the dopaminergic activity in the limbic system and the serotonergic activity on 5-HT2 receptors. The desirable effect of ECT in NMS would be explained by activation of dopaminergic transmission and/or liberation of dopaminergic receptors from the causative neuroleptics.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Complicating Erythroleukemia in a Child with Monosomy 7: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Alavi Samin , Ebadi Maryam , Jenabzadeh Alireza , Arzanian M. T. , Shamsian Sh.
Published: December 2013

Herein, the first case of childhood erythrophagocytosis following chemotherapy for erythroleukemia in a child with monosomy 7 is reported. A 5-year-old boy presented with anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hepatosplenomegaly in whom erythroleukemia was diagnosed. Prolonged pancytopenia accompanied by persistent fever and huge splenomegaly and hepatomegaly became evident after 2 courses of chemotherapy. On bone marrow aspiration, macrophages phagocytosing erythroid precursors were observed and the diagnosis of HLH was established; additionally, monosomy 7 was detected on bone marrow cytogenetic examination. In conclusion, monosomy 7 can lead to erythrophagocytosis associated with erythroid leukemia and should be considered among the chromosomal abnormalities contributing to the association.
Considering Variable Road Geometry in Adaptive Vehicle Speed Control
Authors: Yan Xinping , Zhang Rui , Ma Jie , Ma Yulin
Published: December 2013

Adaptive vehicle speed control is critical for developing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Vehicle speed control considering variable road geometry has become a hotspot in ADAS research. In this paper, first, an exploration of intrinsic relationship between vehicle operation and road geometry is made. Secondly, a collaborative vehicle coupling model, a road geometry model, and an AVSC, which can respond to variable road geometry in advance, are developed. Then, based onH∞control method and the minimum energy principle, a performance index is specified by a cost function for the proposed AVSC, which can explicitly consider variable road geometry in its optimization process. The proposed AVSC is designed by the Hamilton-Jacobi Inequality (HJI). Finally, simulations are carried out by combining the vehicle model with the road geometry model, in an aim of minimizing the performance index of the AVSC. Analyses of the simulation results indicate that the proposed AVSC can automatically and effectively regulate speed according to variable road geometry. It is believed that the proposed AVSC can be used to improve the economy, comfort, and safety effects of current ADAS.
A Unique Case of Left Second Supernumerary and Left Third Bifid Intrathoracic Ribs with Block Vertebrae and Hypoplastic Left Lung
Authors: Mahajan Parag Suresh , Hasan Islam Ali , Ahamad Nazeer , Al Moosawi Nawal M.
Published: December 2013

Intrathoracic rib (IR) is a very rare anomaly in which a normal, an accessory, or a bifid rib lies within the chest cavity and may originate from a vertebra or a rib. It is more commonly present on the right side, and sometimes it may be associated with vertebral anomalies. Only 50 cases have been reported to date in the literature. In most cases, the IR is an isolated finding; it is incidentally detected and is asymptomatic. The IR can be easily missed on a chest radiograph and can be mistaken initially for a pleural lesion, lung consolidation, other peripheral lung parenchymal lesions, or a bony lesion. It is, therefore, essential for physicians and radiologists to know about this entity and consider it in the differential diagnosis, to avoid further evaluation and unnecessary investigations. We present a unique case of three intrathoracic ribs, a left second supernumerary rib, left third depressed normonumerary rib, and bifid arm of the left third rib, with block vertebrae and hypoplastic left lung. To our knowledge, this is the first such case presentation in the published literature.
Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound: A Review of the Physical Principles and Major Applications in Critical Care
Authors: Naqvi Jawad , Yap Kok Hooi , Ahmad Gulraiz , Ghosh Jonathan
Published: December 2013

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is a noninvasive ultrasound (US) study used to measure cerebral blood flow velocity (CBF-V) in the major intracranial arteries. It involves use of low-frequency (≤2 MHz) US waves to insonate the basal cerebral arteries through relatively thin bone windows. TCD allows dynamic monitoring of CBF-V and vessel pulsatility, with a high temporal resolution. It is relatively inexpensive, repeatable, and portable. However, the performance of TCD is highly operator dependent and can be difficult, with approximately 10–20% of patients having inadequate transtemporal acoustic windows. Current applications of TCD include vasospasm in sickle cell disease, subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), and intra- and extracranial arterial stenosis and occlusion. TCD is also used in brain stem death, head injury, raised intracranial pressure (ICP), intraoperative monitoring, cerebral microembolism, and autoregulatory testing.
Melanoma: From Melanocyte to Genetic Alterations and Clinical Options
Authors: Bertolotto Corine
Published: December 2013

Metastatic melanoma remained for decades without any effective treatment and was thus considered as a paradigm of cancer resistance. Recent progress with understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying melanoma initiation and progression revealed that melanomas are genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous tumors. This recent progress has allowed for the development of treatment able to improve for the first time the overall disease-free survival of metastatic melanoma patients. However, clinical responses are still either too transient or limited to restricted patient subsets. The complete cure of metastatic melanoma therefore remains a challenge in the clinic. This review aims to present the recent knowledge and discoveries of the molecular mechanisms involved in melanoma pathogenesis and their exploitation into clinic that have recently facilitated bench to bedside advances.
True Generalized Microdontia and Hypodontia with Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia
Authors: Singhal Anita , Singhal Parul , Gupta Ranjan , Jarial Kush Dev
Published: December 2013

Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia (SED) is a descriptive term used for group of inherited disorders of bone growth resulting in short stature, skeletal abnormalities, and problems with hearing and vision. SED have three major forms, SED congenital, pseudoachondroplastic SED, and SED tarda. SED tarda is milder than SED congenita. True generalized microdontia is a rare condition in which all the teeth are abnormally small. This is a report of a rare case having SED with generalized microdontia in a 26-year-old patient.