bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified penetrating keratoplasty with Acell® bioscaffold implant in seven horses with deep full‐thickness corneal stromal abscess
Authors: Cichocki Brian M. , Myrna Kathern E. , Moore Phillip A.
Published: February 2016

Objective

To describe and evaluate a modified penetrating keratoplasty technique utilizing ACell® for management of equine deep stromal or full‐thickness corneal stromal abscesses (SA).

Methods

Cases presenting to the University of Georgia Ophthalmology service for surgical management of SA necessitating penetrating keratoplasty (PK) were included in the study population. Surgery entailed the use of an ACell® disk sutured within the deep level of a stepped full‐thickness corneal incision with an overlying conjunctival pedicle flap placed in the superficial step incision. Patients were evaluated for success as defined by a comfortable, visual outcome.

Results

Surgery was performed in seven horses. Conjunctival flap incorporation and globe retention occurred in all patients. Functional vision was maintained in six of seven eyes (85.7%) at last follow‐up examination (mean of 87.6 days [range 41–251 days]). Mean size of ACell® implant was six millimeters (range 4–8 mm). Postoperative complications included moderate to severe anterior uveitis (n = 2), diffuse keratitis (n = 1), incipient cataract formation (n = 3), and anterior and posterior synechiae (n = 1).

Conclusions

This technique is a viable option for treatment of equine SA requiring PK. The use of bioscaffold implant is an alternative to frozen and fresh donor cornea transplantation.
Inward rectifier potassium (Kir2.1) channels as end‐stage boosters of endothelium‐dependent vasodilators
Authors: Sonkusare Swapnil K. , Dalsgaard Thomas , Bonev Adrian D. , Nelson Mark T.
Published: February 2016

Key points

Increase in endothelial cell (EC) calcium activates calcium‐sensitive intermediate and small conductance potassium (IK and SK) channels, thereby causing hyperpolarization and endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation.

Endothelial cells express inward rectifier potassium (Kir) channels, but their role in endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation is not clear.

In the mesenteric arteries, only ECs, but not smooth muscle cells, displayed Kir currents that were predominantly mediated by the Kir2.1 isoform.

Endothelium‐dependent vasodilatations in response to muscarinic receptor, TRPV4 (transient receptor potential vanilloid 4) channel and IK/SK channel agonists were highly attenuated by Kir channel inhibitors and by Kir2.1 channel knockdown.

These results point to EC Kir channels as amplifiers of vasodilatation in response to increases in EC calcium and IK/SK channel activation and suggest that EC Kir channels could be targeted to treat endothelial dysfunction, which is a hallmark of vascular disorders.

Endothelium‐dependent vasodilators, such as acetylcholine, increase intracellular Ca2+ through activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels in the plasma membrane and inositol trisphosphate receptors in the endoplasmic reticulum, leading to stimulation of Ca2+‐sensitive intermediate and small conductance K+ (IK and SK, respectively) channels. Although strong inward rectifier K+ (Kir) channels have been reported in the native endothelial cells (ECs) their role in EC‐dependent vasodilatation is not clear. Here, we test the idea that Kir channels boost the EC‐dependent vasodilatation of resistance‐sized arteries. We show that ECs, but not smooth muscle cells, of small mesenteric arteries have Kir currents, which are substantially reduced in EC‐specific Kir2.1 knockdown (EC‐Kir2.1−/−) mice. Elevation of extracellular K+ to 14 mm caused vasodilatation of pressurized arteries, which was prevented by endothelial denudation and Kir channel inhibitors (Ba2+, ML‐133) or in the arteries from EC‐Kir2.1−/− mice. Potassium‐induced dilatations were unaffected by inhibitors of TRPV4, IK and SK channels. The Kir channel blocker, Ba2+, did not affect currents through TRPV4, IK or SK channels. Endothelial cell‐dependent vasodilatations in response to activation of muscarinic receptors, TRPV4 channels or IK/SK channels were reduced, but not eliminated, by Kir channel inhibitors or EC‐Kir2.1−/−. In angiotensin II‐induced hypertension, the Kir channel function was not altered, although the endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation was severely impaired. Our results support the concept that EC Kir2 channels boost vasodilatory signals that are generated by Ca2+‐dependent activation of IK and SK channels.
Assessing hospital cost of joint arthroplasty
Authors: Boniforti Filippo
Published: February 2016

Purpose: total joint replacement is one of the most successful procedures in medicine and cost reimbursements to hospitals for the joint arthroplasty diagnosisrelated group are among the largest payments made by a Regional Health Service. Despite the popularity of these procedures, there are few high-quality costeffectiveness studies on this topic. This study evaluates the cost of total joint arthroplasty performed in a district hospital.

Methods: direct and indirect costs have been measured and patient procedure pathway was analyzed subdivided into three stages: surgical procedure, inpatient care and outpatient clinic.

Results: the cost of the surgical procedure stage was calculated as 3,798 euros, while that of the inpatient stage was 2,924 euros. The mean hospital costs per procedure amounted to 6,952 euros.

Conclusions: although the Health Service tariffs fully reimburse the cost of providing a joint replacement, our data contribute to point out the role of hospital staff ’s organization to support sustainable improvements on health care for joint replacement surgery.

Level of evidence: Level VI, single economic evaluation.
Dissecting ion-specific from electrostatic salt effects on amyloid fibrillation: A case study of insulin
Authors: Kutsch Miriam , Hortmann Pascal , Herrmann Christian , Weibels Sebastian , Weingärtner Hermann
Published: February 2016

Diseases like Alzheimer, type II diabetes mellitus, and others go back to fibril formation of partially unfolded proteins. The impact of sodium, potassium, choline, guanidinium, and 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride on the fibrillation kinetics of insulin in an acid-denaturing solvent environment is studied by fluorescence spectroscopy using thioflavin T as a fibril-specific stain. The fibrillation kinetics reveal a sigmoidal behavior, characterized by the lag time τlag and the maximum elongation rate k of the fibrils. Up to ionic strengths of about 70 mM, the elongation rate increases with salt concentration. This increase is nonspecific with regard to the salts. Below ionic strengths of ∼50 mM, it can be explained by a Debye-Hückel type model, indicating a dominant role of Coulomb interactions between the charged reactants and products screened by the ionic environment. At higher ionic strength, the elongation rates pass maxima, followed by a Hofmeister type ion-specific decrease. There is a correlation between the lag time τlag and the inverse elongation rate k, which can be described by a power law of the form τlag ∝ aτα with a sublinear exponent α ≅ 1/2.
Intraindividual Variability in Test-Retest Air Displacement Plethysmography Measurements of Body Density for Men and Women
Authors: Gibson Ann L. , Roper Jenevieve L. , Mermier Christine M.
Published: February 2016

Air displacement plethysmography (ADP) is a popular method for estimating body density (Db). Most ADP tests are performed once, with test-retest investigations scarce. Therefore, we investigated test-retest reliability of ADP. Active men (n = 25) and women (n = 25) volunteered and followed standard pretest guidelines. Participants wore dry, form-fitting swimwear and manufacturer-supplied swim caps. In a single session, two ADP trials with measured thoracic gas volume (TGV) were performed without repositioning participants. Separate 2 (sex) × 2 (ADP trial) repeated-measures ANOVAs were performed to investigate within-between comparisons of Db, TGV, body volume (Vb), and relative fatness (%BF). Paired t tests were used to investigate significant differences as appropriate. The Bland and Altman technique was used to depict individual intertrial variations. For all analyses, α =.05. A significant main effect for sex was found; men were lower in %BF and higher in all other variables compared with women. Individual variability was notable (ADP1–ADP2). The range of individual intertrial differences were larger for women than men, respectively, for Db (-0.0096–0.0045 g/cc; -0.0019–0.0054 g/cc), TGV (-0.623–1.325 L; -0.584–0.378 L), Vb (-0.249–2.10 L; -0.234–0.397 L), and %BF (-2.1–4.4%; -0.2–0.9%). When assessing body composition of women via ADP or using Db from ADP in a multicomponent model, at least two trials with measured TGV should be performed and the average of the values recorded and reported.
Does Replacing Sodium Excreted in Sweat Attenuate the Health Benefits of Physical Activity?
Authors: Turner Martin J. , Avolio Alberto P.
Published: February 2016

International guidelines suggest limiting sodium intake to 86–100 mmol/day, but average intake exceeds 150 mmol/day. Participants in physical activities are, however, advised to increase sodium intake before, during and after exercise to ensure euhydration, replace sodium lost in sweat, speed rehydration and maintain performance. A similar range of health benefits is attributable to exercise and to reduction in sodium intake, including reductions in blood pressure (BP) and the increase of BP with age, reduced risk of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases, and reduced risk of osteoporosis and dementia. Sweat typically contains 40–60 mmol/L of sodium, leading to approximately 20–90 mmol of sodium lost in one exercise session with sweat rates of 0.5–1.5 L/h. Reductions in sodium intake of 20–90 mmol/day have been associated with substantial health benefits. Homeostatic systems reduce sweat sodium as low as 3–10 mmol/L to prevent excessive sodium loss. “Salty sweaters” may be individuals with high sodium intake who perpetuate their “salty sweat” condition by continual replacement of sodium excreted in sweat. Studies of prolonged high intensity exercise in hot environments suggest that sodium supplementation is not necessary to prevent hyponatremia during exercise lasting up to 6 hr. We examine the novel hypothesis that sodium excreted in sweat during physical activity offsets a significant fraction of excess dietary sodium, and hence may contribute part of the health benefits of exercise. Replacing sodium lost in sweat during exercise may improve physical performance, but may attenuate the long-term health benefits of exercise.
Female Recreational Exercisers at Risk for Low Energy Availability
Authors: Slater Joanne , McLay-Cooke Rebecca , Brown Rachel , Black Katherine
Published: February 2016

Low energy availability (LEA) describes the disruption in normal physiological function existent when insufficient energy intake is combined with exercise. To conserve energy a range of endocrine adaptations occur, impairing health and athletic performance. The prevalence of LEA has not been fully established especially among recreational exercisers. Determining recreational exercisers at risk of LEA may help to maximize prevention, early diagnosis and treatment. The design of this study was a cross-sectional online survey. One-hundred and nine female recreational exercisers, with a mean age of 23.8 (SD 6.9) years were recruited via gyms and fitness centers throughout NZ. Participants completed an online questionnaire including questions from the LEAF-Q (Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire). A total of 45.0% (CI, 35.4%, 54.8%) of participants were classified as “at risk“ of LEA. For every extra hour of exercise per week the odds of being at risk of LEA were 1.13 times greater (CI 1.02, 1.25, p = .016). All participants reporting previous stress fracture injuries (n = 4) were classified as at risk for LEA. Significantly more subjects participating in an individual sport were classified as at risk for LEA (69.6%, CI 24.3%, 54.8%) compared with team sports (34.8%, CI 18.7%, 40.5%) (p = .006). The high prevalence of female recreational exercisers at risk of LEA is of concern, emphasizing the importance of increasing awareness of the issue, and promoting prevention and early detection strategies, so treatment can be implemented before health is severely compromised.
Blocking
Borrelia
in the brain
Authors: Janson Christopher G.
Published: February 2016

Neurokinin-1 receptor blockade inhibits neuroinflammation and apoptosis in a nonhuman primate model of
Borrelia
infection.
Relative immunity
Authors: Singh Anne Marie
Published: February 2016

Siblings enhance immune responses in the airway of asymptomatic neonates, an effect that may modify asthma risk.
The NADase-Negative Variant of the Streptococcus pyogenes Toxin NAD
+
Glycohydrolase Induces JNK1-Mediated Programmed Cellular Necrosis
Authors: Chandrasekaran Sukantha , Caparon Michael G.
Published: February 2016

Virulence factors are often multifunctional and contribute to pathogenesis through synergistic mechanisms. For the human pathogen
Streptococcus pyogenes
, two factors that act synergistically are the
S. pyogenes
NAD
+
glycohydrolase (SPN) and streptolysin O (SLO). Through distinct mechanisms, SLO forms pores in host cell membranes and translocates SPN into the host cell cytosol. Two natural variants of SPN exist, one that exhibits NADase activity and one that lacks this function, and both versions are translocated and act in concert with SLO to cause an accelerated death response in epithelial cells. While NADase
+
SPN is known to trigger a metabolic form of necrosis through the depletion of NAD
+
, the mechanism by which NADase
−
SPN induces cell death was unknown. In the studies described here, we examined the pathway of NADase
−
cell death through analysis of activation patterns of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs).
S. pyogenes
infection resulted in activation of members of three MAPK subfamilies (p38, ERK, and JNK). However, only JNK was activated in an SLO-specific manner. NADase
−
SPN induced necrosis in HeLa epithelial cells associated with depolarization of mitochondrial membranes, activation of NF-κB, and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Remarkably, RNA interference (RNAi) silencing of JNK protected cells from NADase
−
-SPN-mediated necrosis, suggesting that NADase
−
SPN triggers a form of programmed necrosis dependent on JNK signaling. Taken together, these data demonstrate that SPN acts with SLO to elicit necrosis through two different mechanisms depending on its NADase activity, i.e., metabolic (NADase
+
) or programmed (NADase
−
), leading to distinct inflammatory profiles.

IMPORTANCE
Many bacterial pathogens produce toxins that alter how infected host cells interact with the immune system. For
Streptococcus pyogenes
, two toxins, a NAD
+
glycohydrolase (SPN) and streptolysin O (SLO), act in combination to cause infected cells to die. However, there are two natural forms of SPN, and these variants cause dying cells to produce different types of signaling molecules. The NADase
+
form of SPN kills cells by depleting reserves of NAD
+
and cellular energy. The other form of SPN lacks this activity (NADase
−
); thus, the mechanism by which this variant induces toxicity was unknown. Here, we show that infected cells recognize NADase
−
SPN through a specific signaling molecule called JNK, which causes these cells to undergo a form of cellular suicide known as programmed necrosis. This helps us to understand how different forms of toxins alter host cell signaling to help
S. pyogenes
cause different types of diseases.
Reduction of Streptococcus pneumoniae Colonization and Dissemination by a Nonopsonic Capsular Polysaccharide Antibody
Authors: Doyle Christopher R. , Pirofski Liise-anne
Published: February 2016

Streptococcus pneumoniae
colonization of the nasopharynx (NP) is a prerequisite for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). The marked reduction in IPD that followed the routine use of pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccines (PCVs) has been linked to reduced NP colonization with vaccine-included serotypes (STs), with the caveat that PCVs are less effective against pneumonia than against IPD. Although PCV-elicited opsonic antibodies that enhance phagocytic killing of the homologous ST are considered a key correlate of PCV-mediated protection, recent studies question this relationship for some STs, including ST3. Studies with monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) to the pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide (PPS) of ST3 (PPS3) have shown that nonopsonic, as well as opsonic, antibodies can each protect mice against pneumonia and sepsis, but the effect of these types of MAbs on NP colonization is unknown. In this study, we determined the effects of protective opsonic and nonopsonic PPS3 MAbs on ST3 NP colonization in mice. Our results show that a nonopsonic MAb reduced early NP colonization and prevented ST3 dissemination to the lungs and blood, but an opsonic MAb did not. Moreover, the opsonic MAb induced a proinflammatory NP cytokine response, but the nonopsonic MAb had an antiinflammatory effect. The effect of the nonopsonic MAb on colonization did not require its Fc region, but its antiinflammatory effect did. Our findings challenge the paradigm that opsonic MAbs are required to prevent NP colonization and suggest that further studies of the activity of nonopsonic antibodies could advance our understanding of mechanisms of PCV efficacy and provide novel correlates of protection.

IMPORTANCE
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) have markedly reduced the incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Vaccine-elicited pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPS) antibodies that enhance
in vitro
phagocyte killing of vaccine-included serotypes (STs) (opsonic antibodies) have been considered correlates of vaccine protection and are thought to exert their effect at the initial site of infection, the nasopharynx (NP). However, the data presented here show that this is not the necessarily the case. A nonopsonic PPS monoclonal antibody (MAb) reduced pneumococcal colonization and dissemination of its homologous ST in mice, but surprisingly, an opsonic PPS MAb to the same ST did not. These results reveal that PPS antibodies can work in different ways than previously thought, challenge the paradigm that opsonic antibodies are required to prevent IPD, and provide new insights into PCV efficacy that could lead to novel correlates of vaccine protection.
Adenoid cystic carcinoma: triple negative breast cancer with good prognosis
Authors: Romeira Daniel , Cardoso Débora , Miranda Helena , Martins Ana
Published: February 2016

Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the breast (ACCb) is a rare type of breast cancer. The treatment is not consensual. The authors report two cases of ACCb.Case 1: A 59-year-old woman with T1bN0M0, who went for lumpectomy and adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) (60 Gy in 30 fractions);Case 2: A 43-year-old woman, who went for modified radical mastectomy with T3N1M0, and underwent adjuvant chemotherapy, and a sequential regimen with antracyclin and taxane, prior to adjuvant RT (50 Gy/25 fractions).
‘Much clearer with pictures’: using community-based participatory research to design and test a Picture Option Grid for underserved patients with breast cancer
Authors: Durand Marie-Anne , Alam Shama , Grande Stuart W , Elwyn Glyn
Published: February 2016

Objective

Women of low socioeconomic status (SES) diagnosed with early stage breast cancer experience decision-making, treatment and outcome disparities. Evidence suggests that decision aids can benefit underserved patients, when tailored to their needs. Our aim was to develop and test the usability, acceptability and accessibility of a pictorial encounter decision aid targeted at women of low SES diagnosed with early stage breast cancer.

Design

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) using think-aloud protocols (phases 1 and 2) and semistructured interviews (phase 3).

Setting

Underserved community settings (eg, knitting groups, bingo halls, senior centres) and breast clinics.

Participants

In phase 1, we recruited a convenience sample of clinicians and academics. In phase 2, we targeted women over 40 years of age, of low SES, regardless of breast cancer history, and in phase 3, women of low SES, recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

Intervention

The pictorial encounter decision aid was derived from an evidence-based table comparing treatment options for breast cancer (http://www.optiongrid.org).

Outcome measures

We assessed the usability, acceptability and accessibility of the pictorial decision aid prototypes using the think-aloud protocol and semistructured interviews.

Results

After initial testing of the first prototype with 18 academics and health professionals, new versions were developed and tested with 53 lay individuals in community settings. Usability was high. In response to feedback indicating that the use of cartoon characters was considered insensitive, a picture-only version was developed and tested with 23 lay people in phase 2, and 10 target users in phase 3.

Conclusions and relevance

Using CBPR methods and iterative user testing cycles improved usability and accessibility, and led to the development of the Picture Option Grid, entirely guided by multiple stakeholder feedback. All women of low SES recently diagnosed with early stage breast cancer found the Picture Option Grid usable, acceptable and accessible.
A torso model comparison of temperature preservation devices for use in the prehospital environment
Authors: Zasa Michele , Flowers Neil , Zideman David , Hodgetts Timothy J , Harris Tim
Published: February 2016

Background

Hypothermia is an independent predictor of increased morbidity and mortality in patients with trauma. Several strategies and products have been developed to minimise patients’ heat loss in the prehospital arena, but there is little evidence to inform the clinician concerning their effectiveness.

Methods

We used a human torso model consisting of two 5.5-litre fluid bags to simultaneously compare four passive (space blanket, bubble wrap, Blizzard blanket, ambulance blanket) and one active (Ready-Heat II blanket) temperature preservation products. A torso model without any temperature preservation device provided a control. For each test, the torso models were warmed to 37°C and left outdoors. Core temperatures were recorded every 10 min for 1 h in total; tests were repeated 10 times.

Results

A significant difference in temperature was detected among groups at 30 and 60 min (F (1.29, 10.30)=103.58, p<0.001 and F (1.64, 14.78)=163.28, p<0.001, respectively). Mean temperature reductions (95% CI) after 1 h of environmental exposure were the following: 11.6 (10.3 to 12.9) °C in control group, 4.5 (3.9 to 5.1) °C in space blanket group, 3.6 (3 to 4.3) °C in bubble-wrap group, 2.1 (1.7 to 2.5) °C in Blizzard blanket group, 6.1 (5.8 to 6.5) °C in ambulance blanket group and 1.1 (0.7 to 1.6) °C in Ready-Heat II blanket group.

Conclusions

In this study, using a torso model based on two 5 L dialysate bags we found the Ready-Heat II heating blanket and Blizzard blanket were associated with lower rates of heat loss after 60 min environmental exposure than the other devices tested.
BCR-ABL1expression, RT-qPCR and treatment decisions in chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Latham Susan , Bartley Paul A , Budgen Bradley , Ross David M , Hughes Elizabeth , Branford Susan , White Deborah , Hughes Timothy P , Morley Alexander A
Published: February 2016

Aims

RT-qPCR is used to quantify minimal residual disease (MRD) in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) in order to make decisions on treatment, but its results depend on the level ofBCR-ABL1expression as well as leukaemic cell number. The aims of the study were to quantify inter-individual differences in expression level, to determine the relationship between expression level and response to treatment, and to investigate the effect of expression level on interpretation of the RT-qPCR result.

Methods

BCR-ABL1expression was studied in 248 samples from 65 patients with CML by determining the difference between MRD quantified by RT-qPCR and DNA-qPCR. The results were analysed statistically and by simple indicative modelling.

Results

Inter-individual levels of expression approximated a normal distribution with an SD of 0.36 log. Expression at diagnosis correlated with expression during treatment. Response to treatment, as measured by the number of leukaemic cells after 3, 6 or 12 months of treatment, was not related to the level of expression. Indicative modelling suggested that interpretation of RT-qPCR results in relation to treatment guidelines could be affected by variation in expression when MRD was around 10% at 3 months and by both expression variation and Poisson variation when MRD was around or below the limit of detection of RT-qPCR.

Conclusions

Variation between individuals in expression ofBCR-ABL1can materially affect interpretation of the RT-qPCR when this test is used to make decisions on treatment.
Forest dynamics and climate sensitivity of an endangered Carolina hemlock community in the southern Appalachian Mountains, USA
Authors: Austin David A. , van de Gevel Saskia L. , Soulé Peter T.
Published: February 2016

During the last century, the eastern United States has functionally lost two major tree species (American chestnut and American elm), two more, eastern and Carolina hemlock, will likely be functionally extinct during much of their ranges by 2050. Carolina hemlock forests are geographically limited to high elevations in the southern Appalachian Mountains and are considered to be endangered. We collected forest stand, composition, and tree age data at the beginning of a hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) infestation. Prior to the arrival of HWA, Carolina hemlocks were healthy and densely populated in the overstory and understory. While Carolina hemlock regenerated successfully and continuously from 1850 to 2010, the development of this Carolina hemlock forest will be altered by the HWA and may result in an increase in the density of northern red oak, white oak, mountain laurel, and Catawba rhododendron. Carolina hemlocks prefer cool, wet summers with older trees experiencing greater reductions in radial growth than younger trees during droughts. This study demonstrates that dendrochronological techniques can provide critical annual information on Carolina hemlock forest development and tree age–climate response. Our results provide a multicentury perspective for conservation efforts and management of Carolina hemlock forests in the southern Appalachian Mountains.
The responses of Scots pine seedlings to waterlogging during the growing season
Authors: Repo Tapani , Launiainen Samuli , Lehto Tarja , Sutinen Sirkka , Ruhanen Hanna , Heiskanen Juha , Laurén Ari , Silvennoinen Raimo , Vapaavuori Elina , Finér Leena
Published: February 2016

In the future management and sustainable use of boreal forests, it is crucial to consider the rate and strength of tree responses to an elevated water table and the concurrent oxygen limitations, especially in peatlands. We examined the response dynamics of 7-year-old Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) seedlings to a 5-week waterlogging (WL) treatment during a growing season in a root lab (dasotron) experiment. WL took place after shoot elongation had ended but while growth of the trunk diameter was still in progress. Trunk sap flow and needle water potential started to decrease immediately after the onset of WL, while the first signs in needle gas exchange — seen as decreases in the potential efficiency of photosystem II, the rates of light-saturated net assimilation and transpiration, and increased needle respiration — were observed after 3 weeks of WL. New needles responded to WL more strongly than the old ones. Drainage with consequent re-oxygenation of the soil caused a further decrease in sap flow. We conclude that through negative feedback on transpiration and net photosynthesis, WL during the growing season is harmful for Scots pine, leading to potential growth losses or even dying of trees within a few weeks of WL.
Strategic Price, Warranty and Profit Maximization Model of a Software Product Using Dynamic Optimization
Authors: Kapur P. K. , Kumar Vijay , Shrivastava Avinash Kumar
Published: February 2016

Technological advancements have affected each and every aspect of our day to day life. Over the last few decades our dependence on software products has increased immensely. At the same time, software technologies have been advancing at an electrifying pace to achieve new milestones. With this rapid development, competition between the developers is gaining new heights. In such a competitive business arena, customer satisfaction plays a vital role to decide on the survival of product in the market. So, it becomes essential for the firms to work on strategies of product portfolios to attract more customers in order to elevate profit levels. In this regard, firms are using different strategies to obtain a significant market share. An appropriate price becomes one of the most effective factors to influence customers demand. On the other hand, warranty length also acts as an attribute of quality and forms another factor that may sway the customer towards or away from the product. In a warranty contract, the seller or manufacturer promises for a free repair or renewal policy for failed products. In this paper, we have investigated the marketing and production problem for a software firm considering price and warranty as simultaneous dynamic decision variables under the condition of a dynamic demand. We have considered a demand function dependent upon price, warranty and cumulative sales. We have used optimal control theoretic approach for the proposed profit maximization model to derive optimal price and warranty policies. The results specify several optimal policies with which decision makers would gain insight into the consequence of their decisions. Further, genetic algorithm is used to find the optimal results. Numerical example is provided to illustrate the applicability of model.
Simplified Method for Time-Dependent Reliability Analysis of Aging Bridges Subjected to Nonstationary Loads
Authors: Wang Cao , Li Quanwang
Published: February 2016

The performance of existing bridges may deteriorate in time due to aggressive environmental or operating conditions in service, which may eventually cause changes in structural resistance and reliability beyond the baseline assumed for new ones. In addition, the increasing trend of live loads applied to the bridges, which has been reported in many researches, also contributes to the reduction of structural reliability. In order to perform time-dependent reliability assessment for aging bridges subjected to nonstationary loading process with improved efficiency, a simplified method is proposed in this paper, where lower dimensional integral is involved in the calculation of reliability. With the proposed method, time-dependent reliability of a real aging RC bridge is conducted, and the effect of nonstationarity in load intensity on structural reliability is investigated. It is found that structural reliability is sensitive to the increase of load intensity, and is less sensitive to the varying mechanism of load intensity.
Inferring Software Component Interaction Dependencies for Adaptation Support
Authors: Esfahani Naeem , Yuan Eric , Canavera Kyle R. , Malek Sam
Published: February 2016

A self-managing software system should be able to monitor and analyze its runtime behavior and make adaptation decisions accordingly to meet certain desirable objectives. Traditional software adaptation techniques and recent “models@runtime” approaches usually require an
a priori
model for a system’s dynamic behavior. Oftentimes the model is difficult to define and labor-intensive to maintain, and tends to get out of date due to adaptation and architecture decay. We propose an alternative approach that does not require defining the system’s behavior model beforehand, but instead involves mining software component interactions from system execution traces to build a probabilistic usage model, which is in turn used to analyze, plan, and execute adaptations. In this article, we demonstrate how such an approach can be realized and effectively used to address a variety of adaptation concerns. In particular, we describe the details of one application of this approach for safely applying dynamic changes to a running software system without creating inconsistencies. We also provide an overview of two other applications of the approach, identifying potentially malicious (abnormal) behavior for self-protection, and improving deployment of software components in a distributed setting for performance self-optimization. Finally, we report on our experiments with engineering self-management features in an emergency deployment system using the proposed mining approach.
Characterizing Arithmetic Read-Once Formulae
Authors: Volkovich Ilya
Published: February 2016

An
arithmetic Read-Once Formula
(ROF for short) is a formula (i.e., a tree of computation) in which the operations are { +, ×} and such that every input variable labels at most one leaf. We give a simple characterization of such formulae. Other than being interesting in its own right, our characterization gives rise to a property-testing algorithm for functions computable by such formulae. To the best of our knowledge, prior to our work, no characterization and/or property-testing algorithm was known for this kind of formulae.
Complexity Hierarchies beyond Elementary
Authors: Schmitz Sylvain
Published: February 2016

We introduce a hierarchy of fast-growing complexity classes and show its suitability for completeness statements of many nonelementary problems. This hierarchy allows the classification of many decision problems with a nonelementary complexity, which occur naturally in areas such as logic, combinatorics, formal languages, and verification, with complexities ranging from simple towers of exponentials to Ackermannian and beyond.
Mitochondrial impairment induced by postnatal ActRIIB blockade does not alter function and energy status in exercising mouse glycolytic muscle in vivo
Authors: Béchir Nelly , Pecchi Émilie , Relizani Karima , Vilmen Christophe , Le Fur Yann , Bernard Monique , Amthor Helge , Bendahan David , Giannesini Benoît
Published: February 2016

Because it leads to a rapid and massive muscle hypertrophy, postnatal blockade of the activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB) is a promising therapeutic strategy for counteracting muscle wasting. However, the functional consequences remain very poorly documented in vivo. Here, we have investigated the impact of 8-wk ActRIIB blockade with soluble receptor (sActRIIB-Fc) on gastrocnemius muscle anatomy, energy metabolism, and force-generating capacity in wild-type mice, using totally noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and dynamic31P-MRS. Compared with vehicle (PBS) control, sActRIIB-Fc treatment resulted in a dramatic increase in body weight (+29%) and muscle volume (+58%) calculated from hindlimb MR imaging, but did not alter fiber type distribution determined via myosin heavy chain isoform analysis. In resting muscle, sActRIIB-Fc treatment induced acidosis and PCr depletion, thereby suggesting reduced tissue oxygenation. During an in vivo fatiguing exercise (6-min repeated maximal isometric contraction electrically induced at 1.7 Hz), maximal and total absolute forces were larger in sActRIIB-Fc treated animals (+26 and +12%, respectively), whereas specific force and fatigue resistance were lower (−30 and −37%, respectively). Treatment with sActRIIB-Fc further decreased the maximal rate of oxidative ATP synthesis (−42%) and the oxidative capacity (−34%), but did not alter the bioenergetics status in contracting muscle. Our findings demonstrate in vivo that sActRIIB-Fc treatment increases absolute force-generating capacity and reduces mitochondrial function in glycolytic gastrocnemius muscle, but this reduction does not compromise energy status during sustained activity. Overall, these data support the clinical interest of postnatal ActRIIB blockade.
Primary motor cortex neurons classified in a postural task predict muscle activation patterns in a reaching task
Authors: Heming Ethan A. , Lillicrap Timothy P. , Omrani Mohsen , Herter Troy M. , Pruszynski J. Andrew , Scott Stephen H.
Published: February 2016

Primary motor cortex (M1) activity correlates with many motor variables, making it difficult to demonstrate how it participates in motor control. We developed a two-stage process to separate the process of classifying the motor field of M1 neurons from the process of predicting the spatiotemporal patterns of its motor field during reaching. We tested our approach with a neural network model that controlled a two-joint arm to show the statistical relationship between network connectivity and neural activity across different motor tasks. In rhesus monkeys, M1 neurons classified by this method showed preferred reaching directions similar to their associated muscle groups. Importantly, the neural population signals predicted the spatiotemporal dynamics of their associated muscle groups, although a subgroup of atypical neurons reversed their directional preference, suggesting a selective role in antagonist control. These results highlight that M1 provides important details on the spatiotemporal patterns of muscle activity during motor skills such as reaching.
The Integrated Fuzzy AHP and Goal Programing Model Based on LCA Results for Industrial Waste Management by Using the Nearest Weighted Approximation of FN: Aluminum Industry in Arak, Iran
Authors: Zare Ramin , Nouri Jafar , Abdoli Mohammad Ali , Atabi Farideh , Alavi Majid
Published: February 2016

The worldwide recycled aluminum generation is increasing quickly thanks to the environmental considerations and continuous growing of use demands. Aluminum dross recycling, as the secondary aluminum process, has been always considered as a problematic issue in the world. The aim of this work is to propose a methodical and easy procedure for the proposed system selection as the MCDM problem. Here, an evaluation method, integrated FAHP, is presented to evaluate aluminum waste management systems. Therefore, we drive weights of each pair comparison matrix by the use of the goal programming (GP) model. The functional unit includes aluminum dross and aluminum scrap, which is defined as 1000 kilograms. The model is confirmed in the case of aluminum waste management in Arak. For the proposed integrated fuzzy AHP model, five alternatives are investigated. The results showed that, according to the selected attributes, the best waste management alternative is the one involving the primary aluminum ingot 99.5% including 200 kg and the secondary aluminum 98% (scrap) including 800 kg, and beneficiation activities are implemented, duplicate aluminum dross is recycled in the plant, and finally it is landfilled.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Some Derivatives of 2-Methylbenzimidazole Containing 1,3,4-Oxadiazole or 1,2,4-Triazole Heterocycle
Authors: Nguyen Tien Cong , Tran Thi Cam Duc , Bui Manh Ha , Nguyen Dang Dat
Published: February 2016

5-[(2-Methyl-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol or 5-[(2-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)methyl]-4-(4-methylphenyl)-1,2,4-triazol-3-thiol which were prepared starting from 2-methylbenzimidazole in the reaction with appropriateN-aryl-2-chloroacetamides afforded two series ofN-aryl-2-{5-[(2-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)methyl]-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl}sulfanylacetamides andN-aryl-2-{5-[(2-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-1-yl)methyl]-4-(4-methylphenyl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-ylthio}acetamides, respectively. The structures of the compounds were elucidated on the basis of IR, MS,1H-NMR, and13C-NMR spectral data. The compounds containing 1,3,4-oxadiazole or 1,2,4-triazole heterocycle also were tested for their antimicrobial activity against bacteria, mold, and yeast.
Analysis of Effect of Heat Pipe Parameters in Minimising the Entropy Generation Rate
Authors: Hari Rakesh , Muraleedharan Chandrasekharan
Published: February 2016

Heat transfer and fluid flow in the heat pipe system result in thermodynamic irreversibility generating entropy. The minimum entropy generation principle can be used for optimum design of flat heat pipe. The objective of the present work is to minimise the total entropy generation rate as the objective function with different parameters of the flat heat pipe subjected to some constraints. These constraints constitute the limitations on the heat transport capacity of the heat pipe. This physical nonlinear programming problem with nonlinear constraints is solved using LINGO 15.0 software, which enables finding optimum values for the independent design variables for which entropy generation is minimum. The effect of heat load, length, and sink temperature on design variables and corresponding entropy generation is studied. The second law analysis using minimum entropy generation principle is found to be effective in designing performance enhanced heat pipe.
Biosensors Used for Quantification of Nitrates in Plants
Authors: Raul Romero-Galindo , Irineo Torres-Pacheco , Gerardo Guevara-Gonzalez Ramon , Miguel Contreras-Medina Luis
Published: February 2016

Nitrogen is essential for the plant because it is used for the production of chlorophyll, proteins, nucleic acids, amino acids, and other cellular compounds; nitrogen is available in two forms: ammonium and nitrate. Several tools have been used to quantify nitrates in plants such as the Kjeldahl method and Dumas combustion digestion; however, they are destructive and long time-consuming methods. To solve these disadvantages, methods such as selective electrodes, optical sensors, reflectometers, and images based sensors have been developed; nonetheless, all these techniques show interference when carrying out measurements. Currently, biosensors based on genetic constructions, based on the response of promoter gene fused to Gene Fluorescent Protein (GFP), are gaining popularity, because they improve the accuracy of measurements of nitrate by avoiding the interference of carriers ion, high salt conditions, and other factors. The present review shows the different methods to quantify the nitrogen in plants; later, a biosensors perspective is presented, mainly focused on biosensors based on organism genetically modified. The review presents a list of promoter and reporter genes that could be used to develop different kind of sensors, and a perspective of sensors to measure quantitatively the nitrogen is presented.
Drug-Induced Acute Interstitial Nephritis with Nifedipine
Authors: Golbin Léonard , Dolley-Hitze Thibault , Lorcy Nolwenn , Rioux-Leclercq Nathalie , Vigneau Cécile
Published: February 2016

Background. Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) is a frequent cause of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Drug hypersensitivity is the most common etiology and the list of drugs that can induce AIN is not exhaustive yet.Case Report. Here, we describe the case of a 43-year-old man who was treated with nifedipine (Adalate®) for Raynaud’s syndrome. After nifedipine introduction, serum creatininemia progressively increased from 91 to 188 μmol/L in a few months and AKI was diagnosed. Laboratory work-up results indicated the presence of tubular proteinuria and nonspecific inflammatory syndrome. Histological analysis found granulomatous interstitial nephropathy without necrosis in 20% of the kidney biopsy without immunofluorescent deposit. Nifedipine was stopped and corticosteroid treatment was started with a rapid but incomplete reduction of serum creatininemia level to 106 μmol/L.Conclusion. This is the first case of AIN caused by nifedipine.
Differences in GPR30 Regulation by Chlorotriazine Herbicides in Human Breast Cells
Authors: Florian Colin P. , Mansfield Shelly R. , Schroeder Jennifer R.
Published: February 2016

Over 200,000 cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed annually; herbicide contaminants in local water sources may contribute to the growth of these cancers. GPR30, a G protein coupled receptor, was identified as a potential orphan receptor that may interact with triazine herbicides such as atrazine, one of the most commonly utilized chlorotriazines in agricultural practices in the United States. Our goal was to identify whether chlorotriazines affected the expression of GPR30. Two breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, as well as one normal breast cell line, MCF-10A, were treated with a 100-fold range of atrazine, cyanazine, or simazine, with levels flanking the EPA safe level for each compound. Using real-time PCR, we assessed changes in GPR30 mRNA compared to a GAPDH control. Our results indicate that GPR30 expression increased in breast cancer cells at levels lower than the US EPA drinking water contamination limit. During this treatment, the viability of cells was unaltered. In contrast, treatment with chlorotriazines reduced the expression of GPR30 in noncancerous MCF-10A cells. Thus, our results indicate that cell milieu and potential to metastasize may play a role in the extent of GPR30 response to pesticide exposure.
Vibration Analysis of Partially Damaged Rotor Bar in Induction Motor under Different Load Condition Using DWT
Authors: Rangel-Magdaleno Jose , Peregrina-Barreto Hayde , Ramirez-Cortes Juan , Morales-Caporal Roberto , Cruz-Vega Israel
Published: February 2016

The relevance of the development of monitoring systems for rotating machines is not only the ability to detect failures but also how early these failures can be detected. The purpose of this paper is to present an experimental study of partially damaged rotor bar in induction motor under different load conditions based on discrete wavelet transform analysis. The approach is based on the extraction of features from vibration signals at different level of damage and three mechanical load conditions. The proposed analysis is reliable for tracking the damage in rotor bar. The paper presents an analysis and extraction of vibration features for partially damaged rotor bar in induction motors. The experimental analysis shows the change in behavior of vibration due to load condition and progressive damage.
Serum NT-proBNP Levels Are Not Related to Vitamin D Status in Young Patients with Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Passeri E. , Rigolini R. , Costa E. , Verdelli C. , Arcidiacono C. , Carminati M. , Corbetta S.
Published: February 2016

Context. Hypovitaminosis D frequently occurs in early life and increases with age. Vitamin D has been suggested to influence cardiac performance and N-terminal-pro-type B natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) release in adults with heart failure.Objectives. To assess the vitamin D status and the impact of hypovitaminosis D on circulating NT-proBNP levels in young patients with congenital heart defects (CHD).Design and Patients. This cross-sectional study included the assessment of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), parathyroid function markers, and NT-proBNP levels in a series of 230 young in-patients (117 females, 113 males; 6.4 (4.0–9.1) years (median, interquartile range)) with CHD.Results. Serum 25OHD levels <20 ng/mL were detected in 55.3% of patients. Optimal 25OHD levels (>30 ng/mL) occurred in 25% of patients. Serum 25OHD levels inversely correlated with age (r=-0.169,P=0.013) and height standard deviation score (r=-0.269,P=0.001). After correction for age, 25OHD negatively correlated with serum PTH levels (β=-0.200,P=0.002). PTH levels above the upper quartile (44 pg/mL) occurred in 32% of hypovitaminosis D patients. Serum NT-proBNP levels were not correlated with 25OHD and PTH levels.Conclusions. Half of the young CHD patients were diagnosed with 25OHD deficiency and a third of hypovitaminosis D patients experienced hyperparathyroidism. Nonetheless, serum NT-proBNP levels were not associated with hypovitaminosis D as well as hyperparathyroidism.