bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival patterns of patients on maintenance hemodialysis for end stage renal disease in Ethiopia: summary of 91 cases
Authors: Shibiru Tamiru , Gudina Esayas Kebede , Habte Belete , Deribew Amare , Agonafer Tewodros
Published: June 2013

Background

The increasing incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease is an important challenge for health systems around the world. Access for care of the disease in Ethiopia is extremely limited. The main purpose of the study was to investigate survival pattern and assess risk factors for poor outcome of patients on maintenance hemodialysis for end stage renal disease in Ethiopia.

Methods

Medical records of patients on maintenance hemodialysis for end stage renal disease at Saint Gabriel General Hospital between 2002 and 2010 were reviewed. The data was collected by complete review of patient’s clinical data. Descriptive statistics was used for most variables and Chi-square test, where necessary, was used to test the association among various variables. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was done to assess both short and long term survival. P-values of < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant.

Results

A total of 190 patients were registered for hemodialysis at the hospital 91 of which were included in the final assessment. Mean age at dialysis initiation was 58 ± 15 years. Fifty-five (60.4%) of the patients had prior history of diabetes. Almost all of them had serum creatinine of > 5mg/dl and some degree of anemia at dialysis initiation. Forty-one (45.1%) deaths occurred during dialysis treatment and 21 (23.1%) of patients died within the first 90 days of starting dialysis. Only 42.1% of them survived longer than a year. The frequently registered causes of death were septicemia (34.1%) and cardiovascular diseases (29.3%). Use of catheter as vascular access was associated with decreased short term and long term survival.

Conclusion

Dialysis as treatment modality is extremely scarce in Ethiopia and affordable to only the rich. Survival pattern in those on the treatment is less satisfactory and short of usual standards in the developed world and needs further investigation. We thus recommend a large scale analysis of national dialysis registry at all dialysis centers in the country.
Moving MobileMums forward: protocol for a larger randomized controlled trial of an improved physical activity program for women with young children
Authors: Marshall Alison L , Miller Yvette D , Graves Nicholas , Barnett Adrian G , Fjeldsoe Brianna S
Published: June 2013

Background

Women with young children (under 5 years) are a key population group for physical activity intervention. Previous evidence highlights the need for individually tailored programs with flexible delivery mechanisms for this group. Our previous pilot study suggested that an intervention primarily delivered via mobile phone text messaging (MobileMums) increased self-reported physical activity in women with young children. An improved version of the MobileMums program is being compared with a minimal contact control group in a large randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Methods/design

This RCT will evaluate the efficacy, feasibility and acceptability, cost-effectiveness, mediators and moderators of the MobileMums program. Primary (moderate-vigorous physical activity) and secondary (intervention implementation data, health service use costs, intervention costs, health benefits, theoretical constructs) outcomes are assessed at baseline, 3-months (end of intervention) and 9-months (following 6-month no contact: maintenance period).

The intervention commences with a face-to-face session with a behavioural counsellor to initiate rapport and gather information for tailoring the 12-week text message program. During the program participants also have access to a: MobileMums Participant Handbook, MobileMums refrigerator magnet, MobileMums Facebook© group, and a MobileMums website with a searchable, on-line exercise directory. A nominated support person also receives text messages for 12-weeks encouraging them to offer their MobileMum social support for physical activity.

Discussion

Results of this trial will determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the MobileMums program, and the feasibility of delivering it in a community setting. It will inform the broader literature of physical activity interventions for women with young children and determine whether further investment in the translation of the program is warranted.

Trial registration

The trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12611000481976).
In vitro antioxidant potential of dicliptera roxburghiana
Authors: Ahmad Bushra , Khan Muhammad Rashid , Shah Naseer Ali , Khan Rahmat Ali
Published: June 2013

Background

Stress caused by free radicals accumulation result into many hazardous diseases. A number of investigations are focusing to find out the plant oriented natural antioxidant moieties. The basic aim of this research was to investigate the antioxidant potential, total Phenolic and flavonoids contents and photochemical screening of the crude methanol extract and its derived various fractions Dicliptera roxburghiana of Acanthaceae family.

Methods

Crude methanol extract of aerial parts of Dicliptera roxburghiana (DRME) was partitioned in to n-hexane (DRHF), chloroform (DRCF), ethyl acetate (DREF), n-butanol (DRBF) and the remaining soluble portion as residual aqueous fraction (DRAF). We evaluated the antioxidant activities of the extract and various fractions through different analytical methods such as DPPH, superoxide anion, ABTS, H2O2, hydroxyl radical and phosphomolybdate radical inhibition. In vitro lipid peroxidation and reducing power of the plant was also analyzed. Total flavonoid and phenolic contents of the extract and all fractions were also quantified. Plant was also subjected for preliminary phytochemical screening to confirm the presence or absence of various constituents in the plant.

Results

Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids and coumarines. Quantitative analysis revealed the maximum amount of total phenolic and flavonoid contents in DRME while lowest in DRHF. Methanol extract, DREF, DRCF and DRBF exhibited promising antioxidant potential for DPPH, ABTS, H2O2, phosphomolybdate, superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical scavenging capabilities, while these were not appreciable for DRHF and DRAF. All fractions except DRHF and DRAF possess strong reducing power ability and showed appreciable lipid peroxidation inhibition.

Conclusion

These research investigations revealed that Dicliptera roxburghiana is a potent source of natural antioxidants. Hence the plant can be used for management of different stress and anxiety related ailments.
Miglitol improves postprandial endothelial dysfunction in patients with acute coronary syndrome and new-onset postprandial hyperglycemia
Authors: Kitano Daisuke , Chiku Masaaki , Li Yuxin , Okumura Yasuo , Fukamachi Daisuke , Takayama Tadateru , Hiro Takafumi , Saito Satoshi , Hirayama Atsushi
Published: June 2013

Background

Hyperglycemia, a risk factor for development of cardiovascular disease, causes endothelial dysfunction. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (α-GIs) improve postprandial hyperglycemia (PPHG) and may have favorable effects on associated cardiovascular disease. Effects of α-GIs in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and PPHG remain unclear; thus, we assessed the effect of α-GI miglitol on endothelial function in such patients by digital reactive hyperemia peripheral arterial tonometry (RH-PAT).

Methods

Fifty-four patients with ACS who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled in the study: 36 with new-onset PPHG and 18 with normal glucose tolerance. Eighteen PPHG patients were given 50 mg of miglitol with each meal for 1 week. Endothelial function was assessed on the basis of the RH-PAT index (RHI) before and after the 1-week miglitol treatment. The other 18 PPHG patients and the 18 NGT patients were not given any anti-diabetic agent for 1 week, and endothelial function was assessed.

Results

Postprandial RHI decreased significantly in patients with PPHG. Miglitol improved PPHG significantly; postprandial RHI also improved (p = 0.007). Significant inverse correlation was found between the postprandial change in RHI and postprandial fasting-to-60-minutes surge in glucose (r = -0.382,p = 0.009). Moreover, the improvement in endothelial function correlated with the reduced postprandial glucose surge achieved with miglitol (r = -0.462,p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Postprandial changes in glucose are related to endothelial dysfunction in ACS. Miglitol-based improvement in PPHG appears to improve endothelial function. The effect of miglitol on glucose-dependent endothelial function might improve outcomes of ACS.
Nuclear proteome response to cell wall removal in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Mujahid Hana , Tan Feng , Zhang Jian , Nallamilli Babi Ramesh Reddy , Pendarvis Ken , Peng Zhaohua
Published: June 2013

Plant cells are routinely exposed to various pathogens and environmental stresses that cause cell wall perturbations. Little is known of the mechanisms that plant cells use to sense these disturbances and transduce corresponding signals to regulate cellular responses to maintain cell wall integrity. Previous studies in rice have shown that removal of the cell wall leads to substantial chromatin reorganization and histone modification changes concomitant with cell wall re-synthesis. But the genes and proteins that regulate these cellular responses are still largely unknown. Here we present an examination of the nuclear proteome differential expression in response to removal of the cell wall in rice suspension cells using multiple nuclear proteome extraction methods. A total of 382 nuclear proteins were identified with two or more peptides, including 26 transcription factors. Upon removal of the cell wall, 142 nuclear proteins were up regulated and 112 were down regulated. The differentially expressed proteins included transcription factors, histones, histone domain containing proteins, and histone modification enzymes. Gene ontology analysis of the differentially expressed proteins indicates that chromatin & nucleosome assembly, protein-DNA complex assembly, and DNA packaging are tightly associated with cell wall removal. Our results indicate that removal of the cell wall imposes a tremendous challenge to the cells. Consequently, plant cells respond to the removal of the cell wall in the nucleus at every level of the regulatory hierarchy.
Normal and cancer stem cells of the human female reproductive system
Authors: López Jacqueline , Valdez-Morales Francisco J , Benítez-Bribiesca Luis , Cerbón Marco , Carrancá Alejandro García
Published: June 2013

The female reproductive system (FRS) has a great capacity for regeneration. The existence of somatic stem cells (SSC) that are likely to reside in distinct tissue compartments of the FRS is anticipated. Normal SSC are capable of regenerating themselves, produce a progeny of cells that differentiate and maintain tissue architecture and functional characteristics, and respond to homeostatic controls. Among those SSC of the FRS that have been identified are: a) undifferentiated cells capable of differentiating into thecal cells and synthesizing hormones upon transplantation, b) ovarian surface epithelium stem cells, mitotically responsive to ovulation, c) uterine endometrial and myometrial cells, as clonogenic epithelial and stromal cells, and d) epithelial and mesenchymal cells with self-renewal capacity and multipotential from cervical tissues. Importantly, these cells are believed to significantly contribute to the development of different pathologies and tumors of the FRS.

It is now widely accepted that cancer stem cells (CSC) are at the origin of many tumors. They are capable of regenerating themselves, produce a progeny that will differentiate aberrantly and do not respond adequately to homeostatic controls. Several cell surface antigens such as CD44, CD117, CD133 and MYD88 have been used to isolate ovarian cancer stem cells. Clonogenic epithelial and stromal endometrial and myometrial cells have been found in normal and cancer tissues, as side population, label-retaining cells, and CD146/PDGF-R beta-positive cells with stem-like features. In summary, here we describe a number of studies supporting the existence of somatic stem cells in the normal tissues and cancer stem cells in tumors of the human female reproductive system.
Common fixed points of almost generalized "Equation missing" -contractive mappings in ordered b-metric spaces
Authors: Rezaei Roshan Jamal , Parvaneh Vahid , Sedghi Shaban , Shobkolaei Nabi , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we introduce the notion of almost generalized

(
ψ
,
φ
)

s

-contractive mappings and we establish some fixed and common fixed point results for this class of mappings in ordered complete b-metric spaces. Our results generalize several well-known comparable results in the literature. Finally, two examples support our results.

MSC:54H25, 47H10, 54E50.
Genistein interferes with SDF-1- and HIV-mediated actin dynamics and inhibits HIV infection of resting CD4 T cells
Authors: Guo Jia , Xu Xuehua , Rasheed Taban K , Yoder Alyson , Yu Dongyang , Liang Huizhi , Yi Fei , Hawley Todd , Jin Tian , Ling Binhua , Wu Yuntao
Published: June 2013

Background

Binding of HIV to the chemokine coreceptor CXCR4 mediates viral fusion and signal transduction that promotes actin dynamics critical for HIV infection of blood resting CD4 T cells. It has been suggested that this gp120-mediated actin activity resembles the chemotactic actin dynamics mediated by chemokines such as SDF-1. To determine whether inhibiting SDF-1-mediated chemotactic activity can also inhibit HIV infection, we screened several inhibitors known to reduce SDF-1-mediated chemotaxis of T cells.

Results

We found that a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, genistein, inhibited both SDF-1-mediated chemotaxis and HIV infection of resting CD4 T cells. Genistein was also found to interfere with SDF-1- and HIV-mediated actin dynamics in CD4 T cells. This reduction in actin activity correlates with genistein-mediated inhibition of viral DNA accumulation in resting CD4 T cells. In addition, we also tested two other tyrosine kinase inhibitors, sunitinib and AG1478. Sunitinib, but not AG1478, inhibited HIV infection of resting CD4 T cells. We further tested the safety of genistein in 3 Chinese rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), and each animal was given a monotherapy of genistein at 10 mg/kg orally for 12 weeks. No adverse drug effects were observed in these animals.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that novel therapeutic strategies can be developed based on targeting cellular proteins involved in HIV-dependent signaling. This approach can interfere with HIV-mediated actin dynamics and inhibit HIV infection.
Simple extraction methods that prevent the artifactual conversion of chlorophyll to chlorophyllide during pigment isolation from leaf samples
Authors: Hu Xueyun , Tanaka Ayumi , Tanaka Ryouichi
Published: June 2013

Background

When conducting plant research, the measurement of photosynthetic pigments can provide basic information on the physiological status of a plant. High-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) is becoming widely used for this purpose because it provides an accurate determination of a variety of photosynthetic pigments simultaneously. This technique has a drawback compared with conventional spectroscopic techniques, however, in that it is more prone to structural modification of pigments during extraction, thus potentially generating erroneous results. During pigment extraction procedures with acetone or alcohol, the phytol side chain of chlorophyll is sometimes removed, forming chlorophyllide, which affects chlorophyll measurement using HPLC.

Results

We evaluated the artifactual chlorophyllide production during chlorophyll extraction by comparing different extraction methods with wild-type and mutant Arabidopsis leaves that lack the major isoform of chlorophyllase. Several extraction methods were compared to provide alternatives to researchers who utilize HPLC for the analysis of chlorophyll levels. As a result, the following three methods are recommended. In the first method, leaves are briefly boiled prior to extraction. In the second method, grinding and homogenization of leaves are performed at sub-zero temperatures. In the third method, N, N’-dimethylformamide (DMF) is used for the extraction of pigments. When compared, the first two methods eliminated almost all chlorophyllide-forming activity in Arabidopsis thaliana, Glebionis coronaria, Pisum sativum L. and Prunus sargentii Rehd. However, DMF effectively suppressed the activity of chlorophyllase only in Arabidopsis leaves.

Conclusion

Chlorophyllide production in leaf extracts is predominantly an artifact. All three methods evaluated in this study reduce the artifactual production of chlorophyllide and are thus suitable for pigment extraction for HPLC analysis. The boiling method would be a practical choice when leaves are not too thick. However, it may convert a small fraction of chlorophyll a into pheophytin a. Although extraction at sub-zero temperatures is suitable for all plant species examined in this study, this method might be complicated for a large number of samples and it requires liquid nitrogen and equipment for leaf grinding. Using DMF as an extractant is simple and suitable with Arabidopsis samples. However, this solvent cannot completely block the formation of chlorophyllide in thicker leaves.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of orthopedic interface repair using a tissue scaffold with a continuous hard tissue-soft tissue transition
Authors: Dickerson Darryl A , Misk Tarik N , Van Sickle David C , Breur Gert J , Nauman Eric A
Published: June 2013

Tendon tears produce pain and decrease joint stability; each year, over 1.1 million rotator cuff tendon surgical procedures are performed worldwide. However, surgical success is highly variable, and the inability of the procedure to drive the regeneration of the normal tendon-bone interface has been identified as a key factor in surgical failure. This study focuses on the development,in vitroevaluation, andin vivoassessment of a tissue scaffold derived from bovine cancellous bone with the potential to direct regeneration of a bone-soft tissue interface. The scaffold is a highly porous scaffold with a continuous hard tissue-soft tissue transition that facilitates load transfer across the interface and contains all of the extracellular matrix components of the orthopedic interface. This study demonstrated thein vitrocharacterization of the mechanical properties and successfulin vivoassessment using an ovine model.
Pilot study: Evaluation of the use of the convergent interview technique in understanding the perception of surgical design and simulation
Authors: Logan Heather , Wolfaardt Johan , Boulanger Pierre , Hodgetts Bill , Seikaly Hadi
Published: June 2013

Background

It is important to understand the perceived value of surgical design and simulation (SDS) amongst surgeons, as this will influence its implementation in clinical settings. The purpose of the present study was to examine the application of the convergent interview technique in the field of surgical design and simulation and evaluate whether the technique would uncover new perceptions of virtual surgical planning (VSP) and medical models not discovered by other qualitative case-based techniques.

Methods

Five surgeons were asked to participate in the study. Each participant was interviewed following the convergent interview technique. After each interview, the interviewer interpreted the information by seeking agreements and disagreements among the interviewees in order to understand the key concepts in the field of SDS.

Results

Fifteen important issues were extracted from the convergent interviews.

Conclusion

In general, the convergent interview was an effective technique in collecting information about the perception of clinicians. The study identified three areas where the technique could be improved upon for future studies in the SDS field.
Effects of dietary vitamin E on muscle vitamin E and fatty acid content in Aohan fine-wool sheep
Authors: Liu Kun , Ge Suyun , Luo Hailing , Yue Dubing , Yan Leyan
Published: June 2013

Background

Increasing the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content and decreasing the saturated fatty acid (SFA) content of mutton can help to improve its nutritional value for consumers. Several laboratories have evaluated the effects of vitamin E on the fatty acid (FA) composition of muscle in sheep. However, little information is available on wool sheep, even though wool sheep breeds are an important source of mutton, especially in northern China where sheep are extensively farmed. The present study was designed to address the effects of vitamin E on muscle FA composition in male Aohan fine-wool sheep.

Methods

Forty-two male Aohan fine-wool lambs (5 mo old) with similar initial body weight were randomly divided into seven groups and fed diets supplemented with 0 (control group), 20, 100, 200, 1,000, 2,000, or 2,400 IU/sheep/d vitamin E for 12 mo. Three lambs from each group were slaughtered to measure vitamin E and FA content in the longissimus lumborum (LL) and gluteus medius (GM) muscles.

Results

Vitamin E concentrations in the LL and GM increased significantly after 12 mo of vitamin E supplementation (P < 0.05). However, this increase did not occur in a dose-dependent manner because the muscle vitamin E concentration was highest in the 200 IU/sheep/d group. Dietary vitamin E supplementation also caused a significant reduction in SFA content and an increase in monounsaturated FA (MUFA) content in the LL and GM (P < 0.05). All six doses of vitamin E significantly increased cis 9 trans 11-conjugated linoleic acid (c 9t 11-CLA) content in the LL compared with the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Dietary supplementation with vitamin E increased muscle vitamin E content and improved the nutritional value of mutton by decreasing SFA content and increasing MUFA and c 9t 11-CLA contents in Aohan fine-wool sheep. These effects were greatest in sheep fed a diet containing 200 IU/sheep/d vitamin E.
Skilled migration and the transfer of institutional norms
Authors: Beine Michel , Sekkat Khalid
Published: June 2013

We examine two impacts of international emigration on the evolution of the institutions in the origin countries. The first impact concerns the influence of emigration per se (i.e. people who left the country can voice more or less from abroad). The second impact relates to the transfer of the norms of the host country to the home country. The existence of both impacts is confirmed using different indicators of institutional quality. The effects appear stronger when skilled emigration is considered. The main conclusions are robust to alternative econometric methods and to the use of subsamples involving developing countries only.

JEL codes

F22, J24, J61, J64.
A systematic review of anti-obesity medicinal plants - an update
Authors: Hasani-Ranjbar Shirin , Jouyandeh Zahra , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: June 2013

Obesity is the most prevalent health problem affecting all age groups, and leads to many complications in the form of chronic heart disease, diabetes mellitus Type 2 and stroke. A systematic review about safety and efficacy of herbal medicines in the management of obesity in human was carried out by searching bibliographic data bases such as, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and IranMedex, for studies reported between 30th December 2008 to 23rd April 2012 on human or animals, investigating the beneficial and harmful effects of herbal medicine to treat obesity. Actually we limited our search to such a narrow window of time in order to update our article published before December of 2008. In this update, the search terms were “obesity” and (“herbal medicine” or “plant”, “plant medicinal” or “medicine traditional”) without narrowing or limiting search items. Publications with available abstracts were reviewed only. Total publications found in the initial search were 651. Total number of publications for review study was 33 by excluding publications related to animals study.

Studies with Nigella Sativa, Camellia Sinensis, Crocus Sativus L, Seaweed laminaria Digitata, Xantigen, virgin olive oil, Catechin enriched green tea, Monoselect Camellia, Oolong tea, Yacon syrup, Irvingia Gabonensi, Weighlevel, RCM-104 compound of Camellia Sinensis, Pistachio, Psyllium fibre, black Chinese tea, sea buckthorn and bilberries show significant decreases in body weight. Only, alginate-based brown seaweed and Laminaria Digitata caused an abdominal bloating and upper respiratory tract infection as the side effect in the trial group. No other significant adverse effects were reported in all 33 trials included in this article.

In conclusion, Nigella Sativa, Camellia Synensis, Green Tea, and Black Chinese Tea seem to have satisfactory anti-obesity effects. The effect size of these medicinal plants is a critical point that should be considered for interpretation. Although there was no report for side effect in these trials, we believe that safety of these plants still remains to be elucidated by further long-term studies.
Building a fission machine – structural insights into dynamin assembly and activation
Authors: Chappie Joshua S. , Dyda Fred
Published: June 2013

Dynamin is a large multidomain GTPase that assembles into helical arrays around the necks of deeply invaginated clathrin-coated pits and catalyzes membrane fission during the final stages of endocytosis. Although it is well established that the function of dynamin in vivo depends on its oligomerization and its capacity for efficient GTP hydrolysis, the molecular mechanisms governing these activities have remained poorly defined. In recent years, there has been an explosion of structural data that has provided new insights into the architecture, organization and nucleotide-dependent conformational changes of the dynamin fission machine. Here, we review the key findings of these efforts and discuss the implications of each with regard to GTP hydrolysis, dynamin assembly and membrane fission.
Mcp1 and Mcp2, two novel proteins involved in mitochondrial lipid homeostasis
Authors: Tan Tao , Özbalci Cagakan , Brügger Britta , Rapaport Doron , Dimmer Kai Stefan
Published: June 2013

The mitochondrial outer membrane (MOM) protein Mdm10 is involved in at least three different processes: (i) association of mitochondria with the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial lipid homeostasis, (ii) membrane assembly of MOM proteins, and (iii) inheritance and morphogenesis of mitochondria. To decipher the precise role of Mdm10 in mitochondrial function, we screened for high-copy suppressors of the severe growth defect of the mdm10Δ mutant. We identified two novel mitochondrial proteins that we named Mdm10 complementing protein (Mcp) 1 and Mcp2. Over-expression of Mcp1 or Mcp2 restores the alterations in morphology and stability of respiratory chain complexes of mitochondria devoid of Mdm10, yet the observed defect in assembly of MOM proteins was not rescued. Lipid analysis demonstrates that elevated levels of Mcp1 and Mcp2 restore the alterations in mitochondrial phospholipid and ergosterol homeostasis in cells lacking Mdm10. Collectively, this work identifies two novel proteins that play a role in mitochondrial lipid homeostasis and describes a role of Mdm10 in ergosterol trafficking.
Heterogeneous lineage origin underlies phenotypic and molecular differences of white and beige adipocytes
Authors: Liu Weiyi , Shan Tizhong , Yang Xin , Liang Sandra , Zhang Pengpeng , Liu Yaqin , Liu Xiaoqi , Kuang Shihuan
Published: June 2013

A worldwide epidemic of obesity and its associated metabolic disorders raise the significance of adipocytes, their origins and characteristics. Our previous study has demonstrated that interscapular brown adipose tissue (BAT), but not intramuscular adipose, is derived from the Pax3 cell lineage. Here we show that various depots of subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) are highly heterogeneous in Pax3 lineage origin. Interestingly, the relative abundance of Pax3 lineage cells in SAT depots is inversely correlated to BAT signature genes including Prdm16, Pgc1α, and Ucp1. FACS analysis further demonstrates that adipocytes differentiated from non-Pax3 lineage preadipocytes express higher levels of BAT and beige adipocyte signature genes compared to the Pax3 lineage adipocytes within the same depots. Although both Pax3 and non-Pax3 lineage preadipocytes can give rise to beige adipocytes, the latter contributes more significantly. Consistently, genetic ablation of Pax3 lineage cells in SAT leads to increased expression of beige cell markers. Finally, non-Pax3 lineage beige adipocytes are more responsive to cAMP agonist induced Ucp1 expression. These results together demonstrate widespread heterogeneity in Pax3 lineage origin and its inverse association with BAT gene expression within and among subcutaneous adipose depots.
IκBζ is a regulator for the senescence-associated secretory phenotype in DNA damage- and oncogene-induced senescence
Authors: Alexander Eva , Hildebrand Dominic G. , Kriebs Anna , Obermayer Kerstin , Manz Marianne , Rothfuss Oliver , Essmann Frank , Schulze-Osthoff Klaus
Published: June 2013

Cellular senescence, a state of sustained cell cycle arrest, has been identified as an important anti-tumor barrier. Senescent cells secrete various growth factors and cytokines, such as IL6 and IL8, which collectively constitute the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). The SASP can signal to the tumor environment and elicit the immune-mediated clearance of tumor cells or, depending on the context, could potentially promote tumor progression. Despite the importance of the SASP to tumor biology, its regulation remains rather unknown. Here, we show that IκBζ, an atypical member of the inhibitor of NFκB proteins and selective coactivator of particular NFκB target genes, is an important regulator of SASP expression. Several models of DNA damage- and oncogene-induced senescence revealed a robust induction of IκBζ expression. RNAi-mediated knockdown of IκBζ impaired IL6 and IL8 expression, whereas exogenous IκBζ expression resulted in enhanced SASP cytokine expression. Importantly, during senescence of IκBζ knockout cells induction of IL6 and IL8 but not of the cell cycle inhibitor p21WAF/CIP1 was completely abolished. Thus, we propose a distinguished and hitherto unappreciated role of IκBζ for SASP formation in both DNA damage- and oncogene-induced senescence.
Formal anti-Markovnikov Hydroamination of Terminal Aryl Alkynes with Pinacolborane and Hydroxylamines via Zr/Cu Sequential Catalysis
Authors: Sakae Ryosuke , Hirano Koji , Satoh Tetsuya , Miura Masahiro
Published: June 2013

We have developed sequential Zr/Cu catalysis involving regioselective hydroboration and electrophilic amination for the formal anti-Markovnikov hydroamination of terminal aryl alkynes. The reaction system can provide a facile access to enamines from terminal acetylenes with high regioselectivity under mild conditions.
Ionic Rectification through the Formation of Complexes or Precipitation in Carbon Nanotube Membranes
Authors: Patel Bhavin , Patel Mayur , Bassett Matthew , Landge Shainaz , Huang Xuezhen , Jiang Hongrui , Wu Ji
Published: June 2013

Carbon nanotube membranes were fabricated using arrays of millimeter-long multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with an inner diameter of about 8 nm through a low-cost cast–polishing method. The fabricated carbon nanotube membranes demonstrated a unique ionic rectification phenomenon through two fundamentally different mechanisms: a) the formation of metal ion complexes and b) the precipitation of insoluble lead molybdate inside the carbon nanotubes. These discoveries could be applied to detecting the presence of toxic metal ions in contaminated water resources through a relatively simple approach.
Simplified Analytical Pushover Method for Precast Segmental Concrete Bridge Columns
Authors: Bu Zhan-Yu , Ou Yu-Chen
Published: June 2013

Precast construction is an increasing trend of concrete bridge technology to fulfill the demand of innovative technique that yields accelerated, durable and safe bridge construction. Although precast bridge superstructures are widely used in bridge construction projects from the U.S. to Asia, precast substructures are seldom used. The lack of in-depth understanding of seismic behavior of precast substructures causes concern about their performance in high seismicity area. A simplified analytical method for pushover analysis of precast segmental concrete bridge columns is proposed in this study. The method is validated through comparison with test and fiber model analysis results. A parametric study is conducted to investigate the seismic behavior of precast segmental concrete bridge columns using the proposed simplified analytical method. The influences of the aspect ratio, axial load ratio and energy dissipation (ED) bar ratio on the force-displacement response characteristics, i.e., displacement ductility, joint opening drift, failure drift, maximum ED bar strain and concrete strain at the extreme compression fiber are investigated. The simplified analytical method shows superior ease for use with acceptable precision in comparison with the fiber model or three-dimensional finite element model.
Analysis of Regular Structures with Member Irregularity Using the Equilibrium Equations and the Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Kaveh A. , Rahami H. , Asl M. Ardalan , Mirghaderi S.R.
Published: June 2013

In this paper an efficient method is presented for the analysis of those structures which can be formed by addition some members to regular structures. This method is also applicable when some members are reduced from regular structures. If a model is the union of a regular structure and some additional members, then these members are separated from the structure, and their effect is introduced through equilibrium matrix and added to that of the regular structure. For models which lack some members, pairs of hypothetical elements with positive and negative modulus of elasticity are added, and the members with negative modulus are separated from the structure resulting in a regular structure.
Earthquake-Induced Lateral-Torsional Pounding between Two Equal Height Multi-Storey Buildings under Multiple Bi-Directional Ground Motions
Authors: Fiore Alessandra , Marano Giuseppe Carlo , Monaco Pietro
Published: June 2013

Pounding between adjacent buildings, often characterized by different material properties, can be cause of significant or even severe structural damage. The aim of this paper is to present a detailed analytical study on earthquake induced lateral-torsional pounding between two equal height multi-storey buildings with equal storey heights. Both a non-linear viscoelastic model to simulate impact and a non-linear behaviour of the storey shear forces and torques are considered in the model. Pounding-involved response is evaluated in the hypothesis of frictionless contact. Torsional effects are taken into account by implementing the most probable impact scenarios, depending on the sign of the rotations of two adjacent floor-diaphragms. Asymmetric buildings with initial eccentricities just in the transverse direction are considered, while input ground motion is incorporated in the analysis in both directions. Multiple ground motions are implemented in the analysis, in order to investigate the sensitivity of the earthquake-induced pounding to the characteristics of the seismic excitation. The dynamic equation of motion is solved by proposing a suitable MATLAB numerical algorithm.
Experimental Fatigue Evaluation of Prestressed Concrete-Filled Steel Tube I-Shaped Bridge Girders
Authors: Lee Sang-Yoon , Park Kyung-Hoon , Roh Hwasung
Published: June 2013

This paper investigates experimentally the fatigue capacity of prestressed concrete-filled steel tube (CFT) I-shaped girders. The girder consists of steel plates, PT tendons, concrete, and steel shear keys. Three 10 m long girder specimens were prepared for different fatigue stress ranges and subjected to a three-point bending test producing a positive moment along the entire girder span. Displacement control was used to prevent sudden failure of the specimens. The test girder specimens exhibited fatigue capacities classified as Category B′ or C′ of the AASHTO criteria for positive and negative moment, respectively. The special testing arrangement used to produce the negative moment is presented, as well as the fatigue testing procedures and results. At the end of the paper, a modified equation for the S–N curve is derived for predicting the remaining life of the girder.
Mechanical and Thermal Performance of Coextruded Wood Plastic Composites for Structural Applications
Authors: Xiong Wen , Wu Qinglin , Cai C.S.
Published: June 2013

Wood Plastic Composites (WPCs) are a new generation of green composites that contain thermoplastics and wood/natural fibres in various forms, which can come mostly from recycled materials. Using co-extrusion techniques, WPCs show good moisture resistance, economical cost, and recycling performance. However, as structural engineering components, they have a relatively low modulus of elasticity and low strength because of their macromolecular nature. A detailed investigation on WPC mechanical performance is therefore highly desirable before their wide structural applications. In this study, an advanced manufacturing system for producing coextruded WPCs with a core-shell structure and continuous fibre reinforcement was firstly introduced. Based on the products manufactured using this system, a series of laboratory experiments were carried out. Then for better understanding the mechanical performance, especially stiffness and strength, a series of parametric studies were conducted by varying the geometric parameters for both basic coextruded WPCs and advanced coextruded WPCs with continuous fibre reinforcement. A numerical pullout test for the continuous fibre was also included. A comprehensive thermal study of thermal expansion, temperature distribution, and thermal-induced stress distribution were also carried out to demonstrate the fundamental thermal characteristics of the coextruded WPCs. Based on the analysis, section design optimization taking both mechanical and thermal viewpoints into account is finally given. It can be concluded that the coextruded WPCs can achieve good mechanical and thermal performances through an optimized design and are well suited to practical structural engineering application.
The Forgotten Self-Talk Attribute: Examining Perceived Effectiveness Profiles and Patterns of Elite Female Junior Soccer Players
Authors: Burton Damon , Gillham Andy , Glenn Susan
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the role of “perceived effectiveness” as a relevant self-talk (ST) attribute using an exploratory instrument designed to measure multiple ST dimensions/attributes as well as psychosocial correlate variables. A sample of 214 adolescent female soccer players were surveyed while participating in an Olympic Development Program Regional Camp. Correlational analysis demonstrated moderate relationships between perceived ST frequency and effectiveness and psychosocial correlates, with perceived effectiveness correlations similar to, or stronger than, frequency relationships. Cluster analysis identified three perceived ST effectiveness profiles (i.e., effective, ineffective and strategy-users), and MANOVA results found the effective ST profile demonstrated significantly more positive psychosocial outcomes than did the other two profiles, supporting perceived effectiveness as a key self-talk process attribute.
T-Pattern Detection in Judo Combat: An Approach to Training Male Judokas with Visual Impairments According to Their Weight Category
Authors: Gutiérrez-Santiago Alfonso , Prieto Iván , Ayán Carlos , Cancela José M.
Published: June 2013

This study aimed to describe the temporal structure of judo combat for the different weight categories in men with visual impairments so that coaches can adapt traditional judo training methods to this specific population. Observational methodology was used in 184 combats (n = 92 male senior judokas with visual impairments). A T-Patterns study (THEME) and a descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were carried out. The results showed that most of the observed combats ended before regulation time was over (81%). The different weight categories must be taken into account in order to establish adequate training patterns for this population. Special attention must be paid to Work Sequence Time in Stand-up Judo (WSSQT) since this parameter showed significant differences (p = 0.001). The mean values obtained in the studied combats indicate that visual disability accounts for the shorter work sequences and longer pause sequences observed in this group of judokas. These results confirmed that the temporal structure of judo combat in male athletes with visual impairments is different from that of fully-sighted ones. Given all that, a different approach to training each group of judokas becomes necessary, since the temporal structure of the combat is different in each case.
Effects of Gliding Properties of Cross-Country Skis on the Force Production during Skating Technique in Elite Cross-Country Skiers
Authors: Ohtonen Olli , Lindinger Stefan , Linnamo Vesa
Published: June 2013

The aim of the present study was to examine how different gliding conditions of skis affect performance, cycle characteristics and leg and pole force production during V2 skating. Ten elite skiers skied on 100 m uphill (4°) at three different constant speeds (4.0, 4.8 and 5.6 m/s) and maximum speed using two differently prepared skating skis (fast and slow ski). With the slow ski, maximum speed was 6.4 % slower than with the fast ski. With constant speeds, cycle time got shorter due to a decrease in the recovery time of the leg and pole. Peak pole force and average cycle force increased as well as lateral leg forces while there were no changes in the vertical leg forces. A strategy for how skiers adapt on slower conditions was found. Skiers increased pole and lateral leg forces with slower speeds and with faster speeds, skiers increased the skiing frequency.
An Integrated Research Model of Olympic Podium Performance
Authors: Din Cari , Paskevich Dave
Published: June 2013

The purpose of this article is to critically synthesize theoretical frameworks from leadership research and present a new integrated model for the study of contemporary Olympic sport leadership. The empirical work and leadership theories that this model grows out of are reviewed. This discussion builds support for the heuristic value of the integrated research model of Olympic podium performance. Although research models have been problematised by some coaching scholars, it is argued that the proposed research framework has the potential to inspire questions, challenge assumptions, and begin a leadership dialogue which foregrounds Olympic medalists' and their coaches' voices and experiences. The integrated research model is an antecedent, behavior, and consequence model. The antecedent phase is inspired by Côté et al.'s Coaching Model and includes the coach's cognitive map for sport performance. The behavior phase of this model is largely aligned with transformational leadership behaviors outlined in Chelladurai's sport in the pursuit of excellence framework and the coach-athlete relationship is included in this phase of the model. The consequence or outcome is narrowly defined as an Olympic podium performance. Future research in this unique sport leadership context and inspired by this research model is proposed.
A Review on Atomization and Sprays of Biofuels for IC Engine Applications
Authors: Boggavarapu Prasad , Ravikrishna R. V.
Published: June 2013

Ever increasing energy requirements, environmental concerns and energy security needs are strongly influencing engine researchers to consider renewable biofuels as alternatives to fossil fuels. Spray process being important in IC engine combustion, existing literature on various biofuel sprays is reviewed and summarized. Both experimental and computational research findings are reviewed in a detailed manner for compression ignition (CI) engine sprays and briefly for spark ignition (SI) engine sprays. The physics of basic atomization process of sprays from various injectors is included to highlight the most recent research findings followed by discussion highlighting the effect of physico-chemical properties on spray atomization for both biofuels and fossil fuels. Biodiesel sprays are found to penetrate faster and have narrow spray plume angle and larger droplet sizes compared to diesel. Results of analytical and computational models are shown to be useful in shedding light on the actual process of atomization. However, further studies on understanding primary atomization and the effect of fuel properties on primary atomization are required. As far as secondary atomization is concerned, changes in regimes are observed to occur at higher air-jet velocities for biodiesel compared to those of diesel. Evaporating sprays revealed that the liquid length is longer for biodiesel. Pure plant oil sprays with potential use in CI engines may require alternative injector technology due to slower breakup as compared to diesel. Application of ethanol to gasoline engines may be feasible without any modifications to port fuel injection (PFI) engines. More studies are required on the application of alternative fuels to high pressure sprays used in Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines.
The Power of Exercise‐Induced T‐wave Alternans to Predict Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients with Implanted Cardiac Defibrillator
Authors: Burattini Laura , Man Sumche , Sweene Cees A.
Published: June 2013

The power of exercise‐induced T‐wave alternans (TWA) to predict the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias was evaluated in 67 patients with an implanted cardiac defibrillator (ICD). During the 4‐year follow‐up, electrocardiographic (ECG) tracings were recorded in a bicycle ergometer test with increasing workload ranging from zero (NoWL) to the patient′s maximal capacity (MaxWL). After the follow‐up, patients were classified as either ICD_Cases (n = 29), if developed ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation, or ICD_Controls (n = 38). TWA was quantified using our heart‐rate adaptive match filter. Compared to NoWL, MaxWL was characterized by faster heart rates and higher TWA in both ICD_Cases (12‐18 μ V vs. 20‐39 μ V; P < 0.05) and ICD_Controls (9‐15 μ V vs. 20‐32 μ V; P < 0.05). Still, TWA was able to discriminate the two ICD groups during NoWL (sensitivity = 59‐83%, specificity = 53‐84%) but not MaxWL (sensitivity = 55‐69%, specificity = 39‐74%). Thus, this retrospective observational case‐control study suggests that TWA′s predictive power for the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias could increase at low heart rates.
A Review of the Performance of Artifact Filtering Algorithms for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Gong Yushun , Chen Bihua , Li Yongqin
Published: June 2013

Various filtering strategies have been adopted and investigated to suppress the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) artifact. In this article, two types of artifact removal methods are reviewed: one is the method that removes CPR artifact using only ECG signals, and the other is the method with additional reference signals, such as acceleration, compression depth and transthoracic impedance. After filtering, the signal‐to‐noise ratio is improved from 0 dB to greater than 2.8 dB, the sensitivity is increased to > 90% as recommended by the American Heart Association, whereas the specificity was far from the recommended 95%, which is considered to be the major drawback of the available artifact removal methods. The overall performance of the adaptive filtering methods with additional reference signal outperforms the methods using only ECG signals. Further research should focus on the refinement of artifact filtering methods and the improvement of shock advice algorithms with the presence of CPR.