bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies of the Pecten Oculi in the Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Pourlis Aris F.
Published: October 2013

The main purpose of this study is to extend the microscopic investigations of the pecten oculi in the quail in order to add some information on the unresolved functional anatomy of this unique avian organ. The pecten oculi of the quail was studied by scanning electron microscopy. Eighteen- to-twenty two highly vascularised accordion-like folds were joined apically by a heavily pigmented bridge of tissue, which holds the pecten in a fanlike shape, widest at the base. The structure of the double layered limiting membrane was recorded. The presence of hyalocytes with macrophage-like appearance was illustrated. It is assumed that the pecten oculi of the quail resembles that of the chicken. Illustrated morphological features of this species may add information on the active physiological role of the pecten. But still, the functional significance of this organ is a matter of controversies.
Assembly and Irradiation Modeling of Residual Stresses in Low-Enriched Uranium Foil-Based Annular Targets for Molybdenum-99 Production
Authors: Govindarajan Srisharan G. , Graybill Brian S. , Makarewicz Philip F. , Xie Zhentao , Solbrekken Gary L.
Published: October 2013

This paper considers a composite cylindrical structure, with low-enriched uranium (LEU) foil enclosed between two aluminum 6061-T6 cylinders. A recess is cut all around the outer circumference of the inner tube to accommodate the LEU foil of open-cross section. To obtain perfect contact at the interfaces of the foil and the tubes, an internal pressure is applied to the inner tube, thereby plastically and elastically deforming it. The residual stresses resulting from the assembly process are used along with a thermal stress model to predict the stress margins in the cladding during irradiation. The whole process was simulated as a steady-state two-dimensional problem using the commercial finite element code Abaqus FEA. The irradiation behavior of the annular target has been presented, and the effect of the assembly residual stresses has been discussed.
Microbial Changes in Subgingival Plaque and Polymicrobial Intracellular Flora in Buccal Cells after Fixed Orthodontic Appliance Therapy: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Montaldo Caterina , Erriu Matteo , Giovanna Pili Francesca Maria , Peluffo Carla , Nucaro Annalisa , Orrù Germano , Denotti Gloria
Published: October 2013

The oral ecosystem is strictly related to a balance maintained by specific niches recognized as sites, where oral bacteria can metabolize avoiding the immune system response. The oral bacteria species that colonize the ecological niches vary during fixed orthodontic treatment, with a prevalence of periodontal bacterial species. Qualitative analysis of five periodontal pathogens was used to investigate the microbial colonization rate in the crevice and buccal epithelial cells. The presence of inadequate oral hygiene was considered as a modulation variable for microbial colonization. Statistical analysis was performed by Fisher’s exact test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation. A value lower than 0.05 was assumed as statistically significant.Tannerella forsythiawas the only periodontal pathogen detected with a statistically admissible frequency. The positivity forTannerella forsythiawas correlated to sampling time and oral hygiene motivation. In buccal epithelial cells, both factors contributed to microbial decrease (), whereas, in crevice, oral hygiene motivation promoted a decrease in the microbial colonization rate (). According to microbiological findings, it is possible to identify how correct motivation for oral hygiene is more than enough to modulate or to avoid an upset of the oral ecosystem balance in early stages of orthodontic treatment.
Simultaneous Bilateral Transitional Fractures of the Proximal Tibia after Minor Sports Trauma
Authors: Omar Mohamed , Petri Maximilian , Ettinger Max , Decker Sebastian , Krettek Christian , Gaulke Ralph
Published: September 2013

We report a very rare case of a 16-year-old healthy athletic boy who sustained simultaneous bilateral transitional fractures of the proximal tibia after kicking a football with his right leg during a soccer game. Following minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis with bridging of the growth plate, the patient recovered rapidly without any growth disturbances.
Existence and Stability of Positive Periodic Solutions for a Neutral Multispecies Logarithmic Population Model with Feedback Control and Impulse
Authors: Luo Zhenguo , Luo Liping
Published: October 2013

We investigate a neutral multispecies logarithmic population model with feedback control and impulse. By applying the contraction mapping principle and some inequality techniques, a set of easily applicable criteria for the existence, uniqueness, and global attractivity of positive periodic solution are established. The conditions we obtained are weaker than the previously known ones and can be easily reduced to several special cases. We also give an example to illustrate the applicability of our results.
A Parameter Matching Method of the Parallel Hydraulic Hybrid Excavator Optimized with Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Lai Xiaoliang , Guan Cheng
Published: September 2013

This paper proposed a parameter matching method based on the energy storage unit, the accumulator in the parallel hydraulic hybrid excavator (PHHE). The working condition, system structure, and control strategy of the excavator were all considered. It took the 20-ton series PHHE as the example and displayed the parameter matching course of the main components: engine, accumulator, and hydraulic secondary regulatory pump. Their installed powers were reduced after the matching course. Furthermore, the parameters of the PHHE system were optimized with the genetic algorithm to get the most suitable values for system initialization. By analyzing the simulation results, it could be concluded that the parameter matching method had an impressive improvement of the energy saving under the same working condition and brought obscure influence to the mechanism dynamics.
Characteristics of 2 Different Commercially Available Implants with or without Nanotopography
Authors: Alenezi Ali , Naito Yoshihito , Andersson Martin , Chrcanovic Bruno R. , Wennerberg Ann , Jimbo Ryo
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to assess histologically and histomorphometrically the early bone forming properties after 3 weeks for 2 commercially available implants, one supposedly possessing nanotopography and one without, in a rabbit femur model. Twenty-four implants divided equally into 2 groups were utilized in this study. The first group (P-I MICRO+NANO) was a titanium oxide (TiO2) microblasted and noble gas ion bombarded surface while the second group (Ospol) was anodic oxidized surface with calcium and phosphate incorporation. The implants were placed in the rabbit femur unicortically and were allowed to heal for 3 weeks. After euthanasia, the samples were subjected to histologic sectioning and bone-implant contact and bone area were evaluated histomorphometrically under an optical microscope. The histomorphometric evaluation presented that the P-I MICRO+NANO implants demonstrated significantly higher new bone formation as compared to the Ospol implants. Within the limitations of this study, the results suggested that nanostructures presented significantly higher bone formation after 3 weeksin vivo, and the effect of chemistry was limited, which is indicative that nanotopography is effective at early healing periods.
Estimate of FDG Excretion by means of Compartmental Analysis and Ant Colony Optimization of Nuclear Medicine Data
Authors: Garbarino Sara , Caviglia Giacomo , Brignone Massimo , Massollo Michela , Sambuceti Gianmario , Piana Michele
Published: September 2013

[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG) is one of the most utilized tracers for positron emission tomography (PET) applications in oncology. FDG-PET relies on higher glycolytic activity in tumors compared to normal structures as the basis of image contrast. As a glucose analog, FDG is transported into malignant cells which typically exhibit an increased radioactivity. However, different from glucose, FDG is not reabsorbed by the renal system and is excreted to the bladder. The present paper describes a novel computational method for the quantitative assessment of this excretion process. The method is based on a compartmental analysis of FDG-PET data in which the excretion process is explicitly accounted for by the bladder compartment and on the application of an ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm for the determination of the tracer coefficients describing the FDG transport effectiveness. The validation of this approach is performed by means of both synthetic data and real measurements acquired by a PET device for small animals (micro-PET). Possible oncological applications of the results are discussed in the final section.
Herbal Medicine Goshajinkigan Prevents Paclitaxel-Induced Mechanical Allodynia without Impairing Antitumor Activity of Paclitaxel
Authors: Bahar Muh. Akbar , Andoh Tsugunobu , Ogura Keisuke , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Saiki Ikuo , Kuraishi Yasushi
Published: October 2013

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is a major dose-limiting side effect of commonly used chemotherapeutic agents. However, there are no effective strategies to treat the neuropathy. We examined whether Goshajinkigan, a herbal medicine, would prevent paclitaxel-induced allodynia without affecting the anticancer action in mice. Murine breast cancer 4T1 cells were inoculated into the mammary fat pad. Paclitaxel (10 and 20 mg/kg, intraperitoneal, alternate day from day 7 postinoculation) inhibited the tumor growth, and Goshajinkigan (1 g/kg, oral, daily from day 2 postinoculation) did not affect the antitumor action of paclitaxel. Mechanical allodynia developed in the inoculated region due to tumor growth and in the hind paw due to paclitaxel-induced neuropathy. Paclitaxel-induced allodynia was markedly prevented by Goshajinkigan, although tumor-associated allodynia was not inhibited by Goshajinkigan. These results suggest that Goshajinkigan prevents paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy without interfering with the anti-cancer action of paclitaxel.
Gravity Effects of Curing Angle on Laminated Composite Structures: A Review on Novel Study
Authors: Jennise T. T. T. , Yuhazri M. Y. , Sihombing Haeryip , Yahaya S. H. , Nirmal Umar , Megat Ahmad M. M. H.
Published: October 2013

Composites manufactured by small and medium industries/entrepreneurs (SMI/E) are conventionally cured in the horizontal position. Hence, the confined space restricts optimum productivity. Besides, SMI/E is unable to allocate high budget for high-end technology such as autoclave and vacuum mechanical oven which limits the development of SMI/E as a result of high capital cost. Through a series of literature review, the review confirmed that there is no similar scientific study has been conducted. Consequently, the review is carried out to facilitate the investigation of the feasibility of a gravity cured glass fiber laminated thermosetting composites via vacuum bagging at angle position from horizontal (0°) to vertical (90°) to enhance the curing space required.
Unsupervised Cardiac Image Segmentation via Multiswarm Active Contours with a Shape Prior
Authors: Cruz-Aceves I. , Avina-Cervantes J. G. , Lopez-Hernandez J. M. , Garcia-Hernandez M. G. , Ibarra-Manzano M. A.
Published: October 2013

This paper presents a new unsupervised image segmentation method based on particle swarm optimization and scaled active contours with shape prior. The proposed method uses particle swarm optimization over a polar coordinate system to perform the segmentation task, increasing the searching capability on medical images with respect to different interactive segmentation techniques. This method is used to segment the human heart and ventricular areas from datasets of computed tomography and magnetic resonance images, where the shape prior is acquired by cardiologists, and it is utilized as the initial active contour. Moreover, to assess the performance of the cardiac medical image segmentations obtained by the proposed method and by the interactive techniques regarding the regions delineated by experts, a set of validation metrics has been adopted. The experimental results are promising and suggest that the proposed method is capable of segmenting human heart and ventricular areas accurately, which can significantly help cardiologists in clinical decision support.
Integration of Agronomic Practices with Herbicides for Sustainable Weed Management in Aerobic Rice
Authors: Anwar M. P. , Juraimi A. S. , Mohamed M. T. M. , Uddin M. K. , Samedani B. , Puteh A. , Man Azmi
Published: October 2013

Till now, herbicide seems to be a cost effective tool from an agronomic view point to control weeds. But long term efficacy and sustainability issues are the driving forces behind the reconsideration of herbicide dependent weed management strategy in rice. This demands reappearance of physical and cultural management options combined with judicious herbicide application in a more comprehensive and integrated way. Keeping those in mind, some agronomic tools along with different manual weeding and herbicides combinations were evaluated for their weed control efficacy in rice under aerobic soil conditions. Combination of competitive variety, higher seeding rate, and seed priming resulted in more competitive cropping system in favor of rice, which was reflected in lower weed pressure, higher weed control efficiency, and better yield. Most of the herbicides exhibited excellent weed control efficiency. Treatments comprising only herbicides required less cost involvement but produced higher net benefit. On the contrary, treatments comprising both herbicide and manual weeding required high cost involvement and thus produced lower net benefit. Therefore, adoption of competitive rice variety, higher seed rate, and seed priming along with spraying different early‐postemergence herbicides in rotation at 10 days after seeding (DAS) followed by a manual weeding at 30 DAS may be recommended from sustainability view point.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Pharmacoresistant Nondelusional Auditory Verbal Hallucinations in Dementia
Authors: Marras Anna , Pallanti Stefano
Published: October 2013

Auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) are known as a core symptom of schizophrenia, but also occur in a number of other conditions, not least in neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia. In the last decades, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) emerged as a valuable therapeutic approach towards several neurological and psychiatric diseases, including AVHs. Herein we report a case of a seventy-six-years-old woman with vascular-degenerative brain disease, complaining of threatening AVHs. The patient was treated with a high-frequency temporoparietal (T3P3) rTMS protocol for fifteen days. A considerable reduction of AVHs in frequency and content (no more threatening) was observed. Although further research is needed, this seems an encouraging result.
The Supply Chain Triangle: How Synchronisation, Stability, and Productivity of Material Flows Interact
Authors: Klug Florian
Published: October 2013

Empirical evidence created a commonly accepted understanding that synchronisation and stability of material flows impact its productivity. This crucial link between synchronous and stable material flows by time and quantity to create a supply chain with the highest throughput rates is at the heart of lean thinking. Although this supply chain triangle has generally been acknowledged over many years, it is necessary to reach a finer understanding of these dynamics. Therefore, we will develop and study supply chains with the help of fluid dynamics. A multistage, continuous material flow is modelled through a conservation law for material density. Unlike similar approaches, our model is not based on some quasi steady-state assumptions about the stochastic behaviour of the involved supply chain but rather on a simple deterministic rule for material flow density. These models allow us to take into account the nonlinear, dynamical interactions of different supply chain echelons and to test synchronised and stable flow with respect to its potential impacts. Numerical simulations verify that the model is able to simulate transient supply chain phenomena. Moreover, a quantification method relating to the fundamental link between synchronisation, stability, and productivity of supply chains has been found.
Effects of Mild and Severe Knee Joint Pain on Various Activities of Daily Living in the Female Elderly
Authors: Sugiura Hiroki , Demura Shinichi
Published: October 2013

This study aimed to examine the differences in the ability to perform various activities of daily living (ADLs) among groups with various knee problems. The participants consisted of 328 elderly females (age 60–94; mean age 76.1 years; standard deviation 6.2). The subjects were classified into three groups: those without knee pain, those with mild knee pain, and those with severe knee pain. ADLs with markedly higher (>97%) and lower (<38%) achievement rates in the group without knee pain were not significantly different among the three groups. Achievement rates of 40%–97% for ADLs were significantly lower in the group with severe knee pain than in the group without knee pain. In addition, the groups with mild and severe knee pain demonstrated significantly lower achievement rates of ascending and descending stairs and sitting up than the group without knee pain. In conclusion, regardless of the presence of absence of mild or severe knee pain, some ADLs are difficult to achieve, while others are easy. The elderly with severe knee pain find it difficult to achieve many ADLs. In addition, it is difficult for the elderly with mild and severe knee pain to ascend and descend stairs and to sit up.
Genetic and Pharmacologic Inhibition of mTORC1 Promotes EMT by a TGF-β–Independent Mechanism
Authors: Mikaelian Ivan , Malek Mouhannad , Gadet Rudy , Viallet Jean , Garcia Amandine , Girard-Gagnepain Anaïs , Hesling Cédric , Gillet Germain , Gonzalo Philippe , Rimokh Ruth , Billaud Marc
Published: September 2013

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a transdifferentiation process that converts epithelial cells into highly motile mesenchymal cells. This physiologic process occurs largely during embryonic development but is aberrantly reactivated in different pathologic situations, including fibrosis and cancer. We conducted a siRNA screening targeted to the human kinome with the aim of discovering new EMT effectors. With this approach, we have identified mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1), a nutrient sensor that controls protein and lipid synthesis, as a key regulator of epithelial integrity. Using a combination of RNAi and pharmacologic approaches, we report here that inhibition of either mTOR or RPTOR triggers EMT in mammary epithelial cells. This EMT was characterized by the induction of the mesenchymal markers such as fibronectin, vimentin, and PAI-1, together with the repression of epithelial markers such as E-cadherin and ZO-3. In addition, mTORC1 blockade enhanced in vivo migratory properties of mammary cells and induced EMT independent of the TGF-β pathway. Finally, among the transcription factors known to activate EMT, both ZEB1 and ZEB2 were upregulated following mTOR repression. Their increased expression correlated with a marked reduction in miR-200b and miR-200c mRNA levels, two microRNAs known to downregulate ZEB1 and ZEB2 expression. Taken together, our findings unravel a novel function for mTORC1 in maintaining the epithelial phenotype and further indicate that this effect is mediated through the opposite regulation of ZEB1/ZEB2 and miR-200b and miR-200c. Furthermore, these results suggest a plausible etiologic explanation for the progressive pulmonary fibrosis, a frequent adverse condition associated with the therapeutic use of mTOR inhibitors. Cancer Res; 73(22); 6621–31. ©2013 AACR.
Chemoprevention of Head and Neck Cancer with Celecoxib and Erlotinib: Results of a Phase Ib and Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Saba Nabil F. , Hurwitz Selwyn J. , Kono Scott A. , Yang Chung S. , Zhao Yang , Chen Zhengjia , Sica Gabe , Müller Susan , Moreno-Williams Rachel , Lewis Melinda , Grist William , Chen Amy Y. , Moore Charles E. , Owonikoko Taofeek K. , Ramalingam Suresh , Beitler Jonathan J. , Nannapaneni Sreenivas , Shin Hyung Ju C. , Grandis Jennifer R. , Khuri Fadlo R. , Chen Zhuo Georgia , Shin Dong M.
Published: October 2013

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and COX-2 inhibitors synergistically inhibit head and neck squamous cell carcinoma tumorigenesis in preclinical studies. We conducted a phase I and pharmacokinetic study with the erlotinib and celecoxib combination in patients with advanced premalignant lesions. Thirty-six subjects with oral leukoplakia, mild, moderate, or severe dysplasia, or carcinoma in situ were screened for study participation; 12 consented and received therapy for a median of 5.38 months. Erlotinib was escalated following a standard 3+3 design at 50, 75, and 100 mg orally daily and celecoxib was fixed at 400 mg twice daily for 6 months. Biopsy of lesions and cytobrush of normal mucosa were performed at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months. Erlotinib pharmacokinetics were analyzed in 10 subjects. The maximum tolerated dose of erlotinib with celecoxib 400 mg BID was 50 mg per day with skin rash being the main observed toxicity. Overall histologic response rate was 63% (complete response, 43%; partial response, 14%; stable disease, 29%; and disease progression, 14%). With median follow-up of 36 months, mean time to progression to higher-grade dysplasia or carcinoma was 25.4 months. Downregulation of EGFR and p-ERK in follow-up biopsies correlated with response to treatment. Larger average erlotinib V/F (approximately 308 L) and CL/F (8.3 L/h) compared with previous studies may be related to relatively large average bodyweights. Average erlotinib t1/2 was 25.6 hours. Encouraging responses to the celecoxib and erlotinib combination correlated with EGFR pathway inhibition. Although erlotinib-related rash was the main limitation to dose escalation, the intervention was well tolerated. Cancer Prev Res; 7(3); 283–91. ©2013 AACR.
Function and Dysfunction of Presenilin
Authors: Shen Jie
Published: October 2013

The presenilin(PS) genes harbor approximately 90% of the identified mutations linked to familial forms of Alzheimer's disease, and the presenilin (PS) proteins are essential components of the γ-secretase complex involved in the proteolytic cleavage of type I receptors, such as Notch and the amyloid precursor protein. Genetic analysis employing cell type-specific conditional knockout technology highlighted the importance of PS in the adult brain, including learning and memory, synaptic function and age-dependent neuronal survival. In the central synapse, PS regulates neurotransmitter release, short- and long-term synaptic plasticity and calcium homeostasis. However, the molecular mechanisms by which PS maintains these essential functions are less clear. Although many γ-secretase substrates have been identified, their physiological relevance is often unclear. The findings that nicastrin and PS conditional knockout mice exhibit similar deficits in memory and age-dependent neurodegeneration are consistent with the notion that γ-secretase-dependent activities of PS are required for the maintenance of memory and neuronal survival, though the γ-secretase physiological substrates, Notch receptors, are not targets of PS in the adult brain. Thus, despite of the intense interest in PS since its identification in 1995, more work is needed to define the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which PS controls brain functions and the dysfunction conferred by disease-causing mutations.
Currarino Syndrome and HPE Microform Associated with a 2.7-Mb Deletion in 7q36.3 Excluding SHH Gene
Authors: Coutton C. , Poreau B. , Devillard F. , Durand C. , Odent S. , Rozel C. , Vieville G. , Amblard F. , Jouk P.-S. , Satre V.
Published: October 2013

Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is the most common forebrain defect in humans. It results from incomplete midline cleavage of the prosencephalon and can be caused by environmental and genetic factors. HPE is usually described as a continuum of brain malformations from the most severe alobar HPE to the middle interhemispheric fusion variant or syntelencephaly. A microform of HPE is limited to craniofacial features such as congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis and single central maxillary incisor, without brain malformation. Among the heterogeneous causes of HPE, point mutations and deletions in the SHH gene at 7q36 have been identified as well as extremely rare chromosomal rearrangements in the long-range enhancers of this gene. Here, we report a boy with an HPE microform associated with a Currarino syndrome. Array CGH detected a de novo 2.7-Mb deletion in the 7q36.3 region including the MNX1 gene, usually responsible for the Currarino triad but excluding SHH, which is just outside the deletion. This new case provides further evidence of the importance of the SHH long-range enhancers in the HPE spectrum.
Echocardiographic Predictors of Reverse Remodeling After Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy and Subsequent Events
Authors: Park Jae-Hyeong , Negishi Kazuaki , Grimm Richard A. , Popovic Zoran , Stanton Tony , Wilkoff Bruce L. , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Studies of echocardiographic predictors of response after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have largely involved single parameters. We hypothesized that combining parameters would be more robust and sought to develop a multiparametric echocardiographic score for predicting CRT response.

Methods and Results—

Global longitudinal strain of left ventricle was added to standard echocardiographic measurements in 334 consecutive patients (224 men; mean, 65±12 years) who underwent baseline echocardiography before CRT and underwent follow-up echocardiograms at 1 year. Regression analysis was performed to create an echocardiographic score for prediction of LV reverse remodeling (defined as ≥15% reduction in the LV end-systolic volume). Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify the association of the score with death, transplantation or LV assist device implantation, and heart failure hospitalization during 57±22 months of follow-up. LV reverse remodeling (n=161; 48%) was associated with pre-CRT LV end-diastolic dimension index <3.1 cm/m
2
, global longitudinal strain of left ventricle <–7%, left atrial area <26 cm
2
, right ventricular end-diastolic area index <10.0 cm
2
/m
2
, right atrial area <20 cm
2
, and right ventricular fractional area change ≥35%. Combination of these into an echocardiographic score allowed prediction of LV reverse remodeling with a sensitivity of 84% and a specificity of 79%. During follow-up, there were 134 deaths, 18 heart transplantations/LV assist device implantations, and 93 heart failure admissions. The score was associated with heart failure admission, heart transplantation/LV assist device, or death (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.95–0.98;
P
<0.001) and all-cause death (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.96–0.98;
P
<0.001), independent of age, sex, ischemic cause, and initial functional class.

Conclusions—

A multiparametric echocardiographic score is helpful in selecting patients likely to undergo reverse remodeling after CRT and predicts clinical outcomes.
Leukocyte Count Is a Modulating Factor for the Mortality Benefit of Bivalirudin in ST-Segment–Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Palmerini Tullio , Brener Sorin J. , Mehran Roxana , Dangas George , Genereux Philippe , Riva Diego Della , Mariani Andrea , Xu Ke , Stone Gregg W.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Although the reduction in mortality with bivalirudin compared with unfractionated heparin plus glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in the Harmonizing Outcome with Revascularization and Stent in Acute Myocardial Infarction (HORIZONS-AMI) trial has been attributed to lower rates of major bleeding, alternative mechanisms have not been investigated in depth. We sought to investigate whether there might be an interaction between white blood cell (WBC) count and bivalirudin for the risk of mortality, and whether this interaction is independent of major bleeding.

Methods and Results—

Among the 3602 patients enrolled in the HORIZONS-AMI trial, WBC count was available in 3433 (95.3%) patients. Patients were stratified according to WBC tertiles. At 1-year follow-up, bivalirudin was associated with significantly lower rates of mortality and cardiac mortality compared with unfractionated heparin plus glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in patients in the upper WBC tertile (all-cause death: 4.1% versus 9.3%, respectively;
P
=0.0004; cardiac death: 2.0% versus 6.9%; respectively;
P
<0.0001) but not in patients in the mid-WBC or lower WBC tertiles. The reduction of mortality with bivalirudin across WBC tertiles was independent of major bleeding, and a significant interaction was apparent for 1-year all-cause mortality and cardiac mortality between WBC and bivalirudin therapy. Similar findings were apparent at 3 years.

Conclusions—

In patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, a significant interaction between bivalirudin therapy and admission WBC count was apparent for 1-year mortality. The reduction in mortality was independent of major bleeding, suggesting that other mechanisms may be implicated in the survival benefit observed with bivalirudin.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00433966.
Impact of Chronic Kidney Disease on Carotid Atherosclerosis According to Blood Pressure Category
Authors: Ohara Tomoyuki , Kokubo Yoshihiro , Toyoda Kazunori , Watanabe Makoto , Koga Masatoshi , Nakamura Satoko , Nagatsuka Kazuyuki , Minematsu Kazuo , Nakagawa Masanori , Miyamoto Yoshihiro
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to clarify the association of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with carotid atherosclerosis and the impact of CKD on carotid atherosclerosis according to blood pressure categories in an urban general population.

Methods—

We studied 3466 Japanese individuals (35–93 years old) in the Suita Study. Carotid atherosclerosis was expressed as the maximum carotid intima-media thickness and the presence of stenosis (>25%). The estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated using the equations recommended by the Japanese Society of Nephrology. CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. Blood pressure categories were defined by the European Society of Hypertension and European Society of Cardiology 2007 criteria.

Results—

The multivariable-adjusted maximum carotid intima-media thickness and odds ratio for stenosis in subjects with estimated glomerular filtration rate <50 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
were greater than those in subjects with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥90 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
. When subjects were stratified according to blood pressure categories, the multivariable-adjusted maximum carotid intima-media thickness was significantly greater in CKD subjects than in non-CKD subjects only in subjects with hypertension. Similarly, the impact of CKD on stenosis was evident only in subjects with hypertension (multivariable-adjusted odds ratios for stenosis [95% confidence interval] were 2.21 [1.53–3.19] in non-CKD/hypertension and 3.16 [2.05–4.88] in CKD/hypertension compared with non-CKD/optimal blood pressure).

Conclusions—

In a general population, the association of CKD with carotid atherosclerosis was modest, but CKD was independently associated with carotid atherosclerosis in subjects with hypertension.
Making Land Sacred: Inscriptional Evidence for Buddhist Kings and Brahman Priests in Medieval Bengal
Authors: Fleming Benjamin J.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

In research on premodern South Asia, land-grant inscriptions have typically been mined for historical and geographical data. This article suggests that copperplate land-grant inscriptions may also provide an overlooked source of evidence for ideas about sacred space within and between South Asian religions. It focuses on inscriptions recording the granting of land by Buddhist kings to Brahman priests in medieval Bengal, and it hones in on the literary, oral, ritual, and performative elements of the inscriptions in relation to the spaces delineated by acts of granting. Drawing upon broader theoretical discussions concerning gift-giving in relation to economies and exchanges of religious prestige and royal power, it attempts to offer new perspectives towards gift-giving and the economy of the sacred in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. In the process, it attempts to draw out some of the broader ritual and “religious” implications of what is typically treated as an “economic” transaction – namely, the transfer of land from royal to priestly control, which forms the heart of the copperplate’s function and formation.
Space in Relation to God or the Absolute in the Thought of Henry More and Śaṅkara: An Exercise in Comparative Philosophy
Authors: Duquette Jonathan
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Since Antiquity thinkers of all civilizations have speculated on the concept of space. The idea arose under various typologies and descriptions in different areas of knowledge ranging from cosmology, physics, and mathematics to philosophy and psychology. However, less known are the role and implications of space in theological and religio-philosophical discourse. This article aims to examine and characterize the claim that space is intimately related to God or the absolute from the perspective of two thinkers rooted in different historical, cultural, and religious settings: the Cambridge Platonist Henry More and the Advaita Vedāntin Śaṅkara. A comparative approach will bring forward the meeting points in their respective assessment of the relationship between space and God/the absolute, as well as the distinctiveness in their arguments, approach, and motivations. The present discussion may demonstrate alternative ways of addressing a valuable problem recurring at the intersection of philosophy and religion at different times and places throughout history.
On the Term “Monotheism”
Authors: Herbener Jens-André P.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

The category of monotheism is not only central to the study of religion, it is also well known outside of academia. Yet there is no real consensus as to its content. Considering existing literature on the subject, one will observe that the term monotheism is defined in a diversity of ways and may be applied to a variety of religions as well as to a variety of different elements in religion.

This is problematic for several reasons: for one thing, this ambiguity means that it is not necessarily very informative to categorize a given phenomenon as monotheistic. For another, in several cases the use of the term corresponds rather poorly with the meaning that can be inferred from the etymological root of the word. Furthermore, it is often used where it would be more accurate to use other categories.

The present article intends to break away from the loose application of the category of monotheism often found in the literature. First, it will examine, discuss, and criticize four significant examples of the status quo. Secondly, drawing inspiration from the recent debate on monotheism, it will advocate a “restricted” definition of monotheism and thus a reduced application of the term, as well as an extended use of categories such as henotheism, summodeism, and monolatry.
Utterly Incapacitated
Authors: Holmes Christopher T.
Published: October 2013

Abstract

This article considers the appropriate translation of πάρεσις in Romans 3:25, which is the only attestation of the word in the Greek Bible. The author argues that “incapacitation” should be considered as an appropriate translation based on the use of the term in other authors of the Hellenistic period, especially the medical writer Aretaeus of Cappadocia. Although some have mentioned “paralysis” as a possible meaning of πάρεσις in scholarly articles and monographs, no one has given serious consideration to understanding the term in this way or how such an understanding might align with Paul’s larger argument.
Biology and ecology of Parabathynellidae (Crustacea, Bathynellacea) — a review
Authors: Schminke Horst Kurt , Cho Joo-Lae
Published: October 2013

Not much is known on the biology and ecology of Parabathynellidae. Hidden in the literature, however, are several so far unnoticed observations which are here summarized and critically evaluated. They add new information on adaptation of Parabathynellidae to salinity, on grooming and on locomotion, swimming in particular.
Review of the Argentinean species of Pseudomicrocara Armstrong (Coleoptera: Scirtidae)
Authors: LIBONATTI MARÍA LAURA , RUTA RAFAŁ
Published: October 2013

The Pseudomicrocara Armstrong from Argentina are reviewed. In total, seven species are present: Pseudomicrocara angusta sp. nov., P. antarctica (Fairmaire) comb. nov., P. hieroglyphica sp. nov., P. inflexipenis sp. nov., P. livida (Fabricius), P. obliquata (Solier) comb. nov., and P. patagonica (Curtis) comb. nov. New provincial records are provided for several species. Pseudomicrocara obliquata, previously known only from Chile, is recorded from Argentina for the first time. Illustrations of habitus and genitalia as well as distributional data for all Argentinean species of Pseudomicrocara are provided.
Three species of Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) newly recorded from the Republic of Korea
Authors: BELLIS GLENN , KIM HEUNG-CHUL , KIM MYUNG-SOON , KLEIN TERRY A. , LEE DONG-KYU , GOPURENKO DAVID
Published: October 2013

Light trap surveys of adult Culicoides Latreille in the Republic of Korea (ROK) resulted in the capture of three previously unreported species, C. nasuensis Kitaoka, C. pallidulus Yu and C. jacobsoni Macfie. These new records are supported by supplementary morphological descriptions and DNA barcodes (mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I or COI). An updated checklist of species reported from the ROK is provided.
Echiniscus semifoveolatus (Heterotardigrada: Echiniscidae),
a newly recorded species from China
Authors: QIAO PENGHAI , ZHANG PIN , SUN XIZHAI , LI XIAOCHEN
Published: October 2013

Echiniscus semifoveolatus Ito, 1993 (Tardigrada: Echiniscidae) is reported as a new record for China, and was collected from the Mt. Jinggang, Jiangxi, and the Wuyi Mountains, south-eastern China. This is the first report of this species from outside the type locality, Mt. Fuji, central Japan. The number of dorsal spines that arise from the posterior edge of the scapular plate ranges from zero to five while the type specimen has two symmetrically arranged spines at Bd. The distance between the spines varies. These variations in both the number of spines and the distance between the spines could be considered as individual variation. We provide a detailed supplementary description for this species based on the Chinese specimens and supply a key to all known Chinese species of the genus Echiniscus.
Interference from Indian diet on the internal standard in a commercial method for the measurement of urinary metanephrines by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection
Authors: Madhavaram Hima , Woollard Gerald A
Published: October 2013

Introduction:

Urinary metanephrines are widely used in the diagnosis of catecholamine secreting tumours. Over the past two years we have been using the commercial Recipe® ClinRep® Complete Kit for Metanephrines in Urine coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography and coulometric detection. It was noticed that the internal standards on the patient chromatograms were sporadically raised due to interference.

Methods:

The interference had identical chromatographic and electrochemical properties to the Recipe® internal standard (undisclosed identity). Inspection of the patient names showed it seemingly had a higher frequency and magnitude in patients of Indian origin. The source of the interference was tracked by dietary observation and intervention to curry leaves, a common component of Indian foods.

Results:

The interference was chromatographically and electrochemically indistinguishable from the internal standard. The mass spectrum of the pentafluoropropionate derivative of the interference matched the Recipe® internal standard and was identified as methoxyhydroxybenzylamine by library match.

Conclusion:

The component co-elutes exactly with internal standard and artifactually decreases the metanephrine and normetanephrine results. It is surprising that it has not been described previously. Patients being assessed for catecholamine secreting tumours should be advised to withdraw from eating Indian foods at least 24 h prior to commencement of urinary collection.
Francophonie and peace operations: Towards geocultural ownership
Authors: Massie Justin , Morin David
Published: October 2013

This article critically examines the purposes and objectives of the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). While analysts debate whether the OIF is a hegemonic or counter-hegemonic instrument of statecraft, we argue that it is an institution founded upon the principle of geopolitical ownership of a distinctive geocultural space. Its prime task, with regard to conflict resolution, is to help transfer responsibilities and capabilities from northern to southern member states. From this perspective, we contend that the OIF has progressively taken charge of a distinct and necessary geocultural role with regard to international security.
“Bucks without Hair” and “Bullet Points”: Social and meta-commentary in Justin Cartwright’s In Every Face I Meet
Authors: Graham Lucy Valerie , Buchanan Andrea
Published: October 2013

This article aims to open academic debate about Justin Cartwright’s fiction set in England by examining the first of Cartwright’s major novels about England, namely In Every Face I Meet (1995). Although South African-born Cartwright has lived in London for more than 40 years, the majority of his novels, about England and Englishness, have received little previous academic attention. We claim that In Every Face I Meet offers social commentary in the form of a subtle, humane critique of English society and culture. Tracing the novel’s intertextual allusions, not only to the work of William Blake, but also to a text by the notoriously racist South African writer, Sarah Gertrude Millin, we examine the ways in which In Every Face I Meet explores the interface between metropole and former colony. We conclude by discussing the relevance of Cartwright’s interest in the ideas of the social philosopher Isaiah Berlin to reading the novel as meta-commentary, and the tension between reading the novel as social commentary and reading it as metafiction.
Structural properties of z-pinned carbon-epoxy T-joints in hot-wet environment
Authors: Mouritz AP
Published: October 2013

The effect of hot-wet environment on the structural properties of composite T-joints reinforced with z-pins is experimentally investigated. The properties of unpinned and z-pinned carbon fiber-epoxy T-shaped joints were determined following conditioning in a hot (75℃) and humid (85% relative humidity) environment for increasing times up to five months. Water absorbed by the z-pinned joint weakened the mode I bridging traction load generated by the z-pins. However, the structural properties of the z-pinned joint were not affected by the hot-wet environment because they are strongly influenced by the friction-induced traction load generated during z-pin pull-out, which was not affected by absorbed water. The effect of water removal by drying on the restoration of the z-pin bridging traction load and the structural properties of the z-pinned joint are also investigated.
Mode I and pull-out tests of composite laminates reinforced with rectangular z-pins
Authors: Knaupp Matthias , Baudach Felix , Franck Johannes , Scharr Gerhard
Published: October 2013

The present paper deals with the mode I and pull-out performance of unreinforced and with pin-reinforced carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic specimen. Especially, the influence of the pin geometry on the aforementioned tests was investigated. The rectangular pins require a higher pull-out force and cause higher energy consumption during the frictional pull-out compared to circular pins. The influence on the mode I performance of the rectangular pins depends on their orientation relative to the carbon fibres of the laminate.
Safe nightlife collaborations: Multiple actors, conflicting interests and different power distributions
Authors: van Liempt Ilse
Published: October 2013

Given the expectation that people will consume more when safety is guaranteed, most cities have, along with the stimulation of nightlife districts, implemented special policies to promote safety. Safe nightlife policies fit in neatly in the larger context of ‘integral’ safety policies where many different actors are expected to collaborate and take responsibility. Very little is known, however, about the interactions between various actors within these new partnerships. This research acknowledges an emerging surveillant ‘assemblage’ in urban nightlife districts where different systems are brought together and practices and technologies are combined and integrated into a larger whole. Interviews with different actors involved in safe nightlife collaborations in Utrecht and Rotterdam (The Netherlands), show how differences in the emergence and set-up of these assemblages, conflicting interests and different power distributions between actors shape collaborations on the ground considerably and result in various local outcomes.
Resilience in the Transition Landscapes of the Peri-urban: From ‘Where’ with ‘Whom’ to ‘What’
Authors: Beilin Ruth , Reichelt Nicole , Sysak Tamara
Published: October 2013

In this paper, the peri-urban is conceptualised as a territory to analyse the tensions associated with governments pursuing various agendas in isolation from those inhabiting these spaces. Two peri-urban vignettes are drawn together and Taylor’s conception of a ‘social imaginary’ is used to recognise the conundrum for government planners, as well as to support the narratives about the social and ecological meaning of what local in-migrants are doing in the landscape. A resilience framework assists in clarifying system boundaries and the concept of social-ecological memory is used to interrogate how practices emerge within the various social imaginaries. The findings emphasise that this combination of tropes assists in acknowledging the rich, social imaginaries of local people ‘making’ the new landscapes. It is argued that acknowledging and incorporating their interests requires engaging with local networks and, more strategically, conceding that the social imaginaries of the peri-urban can be co-constructed for other strategic landscape outcomes.
Amateurization and professionalization from the perspective of missionary effectiveness
Authors: Plake John Farquhar
Published: October 2013

Missionary effectiveness is found at the confluence of divine calling, human need, and missionary ability. Missionaries are ineffective when their abilities—including spiritual formation, missiological education, and ministry development—are inappropriate for the context to which God has called them as ambassadors. Great ability without divine calling is professionalism, and inadequate ability to respond to the divine calling and human need is amateurism. Since short-term missionaries possess limited abilities, they may serve appropriately in limited contexts. However, all missionaries can and should grow. As missionary ability increases, so do the possibilities for appropriate engagement in God’s mission of redemption.