bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is mercury in Tibetan Medicine toxic? Clinical, neurocognitive and biochemical results of an initial cross-sectional study
Authors: Sallon Sarah , Dory Yahav , Barghouthy Yazeed , Tamdin Tsewang , Sangmo Rigzin , Tashi Jamyang , Yangdon Sonam , Yeshi Tenzin , Sadutshang Tsetan , Rotenberg Michal , Cohen Elinor , Harlavan Yehudit , Sharabi Galit , Bdolah-Abram Tali
Published: October 2016

Mercury an important therapeutic substance in Tibetan Medicine undergoes complex “detoxification” prior to inclusion in multi-ingredient formulas. In an initial cross-sectional study, patients taking Tibetan Medicine for various conditions were evaluated for mercury toxicity. Two groups were identified: Group 1, patients taking “ Tsothel” the most important detoxified mercury preparation and Group 2, patients taking other mercury preparations or mercury free Tibetan Medicine. Atomic fluorescence spectrometry of Tibetan Medicine showed mercury consumption 130 µg/kg/day (Group 1) and 30 µg/kg/day (Group 2) ( P ≤ 0.001), levels above EPA (RfDs) suggested threshold (0.3 µg/kg /day) for oral chronic exposure. Mean duration of Tibetan Medicine treatment was 9 ± 17 months (range 3–116) (Group 1) and 5 ± 1.96 months (range 1–114) (Group 2) (NS) with cumulative days of mercury containing Tibetan Medicine, 764 days ± 1214 (range 135–7330) vs. 103 days ± 111 (range 0–426), respectively ( P ≤ 0.001). Comparison of treatment groups with healthy referents (Group 3) not taking Tibetan Medicine showed no significant differences in prevalence of 23 non-specific symptoms of mercury toxicity, abnormal neurological, cardiovascular and dental findings and no correlation with mercury exposure variables; consumption, cumulative treatment days, blood/ urine Hg. Liver and renal function tests in treatment groups were not significantly increased compared to referents, with mean urine Beta2 Microglobulin within the normal range and not significantly associated with Hg exposure variables after correcting for confounding variables. Neurocognitive testing showed no significant intergroup differences for Wechsler Memory Scale, Grooved Pegboard, Visual Retention, but Group1 scores were better for Mini-Mental, Brief Word Learning, Verbal Fluency after correcting for confounding variables. These results suggest mercury containing Tibetan Medicine does not have appreciable adverse effects and may exert a possible beneficial effect on neurocognitive function. Since evidence of mercury as a toxic heavy metal, however, is well known, further analysis of literature on mercury use in other Asian traditional systems is highly suggested prior to further studies.
Analysis of In-Game Communication as an Indicator of Recognition Primed Decision Making in Elite Australian Rules Football Umpires
Authors: Neville Timothy J. , Salmon Paul M. , Read Gemma J. M.
Published: October 2016

In sport, decision-making research has identified consistent results among the three variations of the recognition primed decision (RPD) model. Despite the fact that officials in sport are a key component of sports systems, previous research has explored the RPD model in players only. This paper addresses this by applying the RPD model to examine the decision making of umpires in Australian Rules football (Australian Football League [AFL]). Method: Audible communication instances of AFL field umpiring teams overseeing three games were transcribed. The data were coded into “decision moments”; each decision moment was classified into one of the three RPD model variations. Results: Within the 6,025 communication instances, 887 decision moments were identified. Of the decision moments, 78.70% were classified as Variation 1, 19.75% as Variation 2, and 1.35% as Variation 3. Discussion: The results demonstrate that AFL umpire decision making can be characterized by a similar RPD breakdown as that by players in sport. RPD variation in AFL umpiring is influenced by the game situation and the type of adjudication being made. The implications for research and practice are discussed, including extending the analysis to multirole officiating teams (e.g., soccer) and the provision of tailored decision-making training.
Endovascular reconstruction of internal carotid artery dissection in patients with acute ischemic stroke using the Wingspan stent
Authors: Murias Quintana Eduardo , Vega Valdés Pedro , Morales Deza Edison , Gil Garcia Alberto , Cuellar Saenz Hugo , Salgado Bernal Alba L , Cadenas Rodríguez María , Benavente Fernández Lorena , Delgado Montserrat González , Riesco Pérez Nuria , Larrosa Campo Davinia , Calleja Puerta Sergio
Published: October 2016

Objective

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate our experience in endovascular reconstruction of carotid dissections using the Wingspan Stent System™ (Boston Scientific, Natick, MA, USA), a device we use because of its high radial force and its navigation in extreme curves.

Methods

We treated 11 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke due to carotid dissection with the Wingspan stent, in the cervical carotid artery.

Results

Functional evaluation revealed that 10 of the 11 patients were independent at 3 months post surgery and that the 11 stents used were found to be patent at the 6-month follow-up digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Conclusions

The Wingspan stent is an alternative to classic carotid stents and flow diverters for the treatment of cervical internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection associated with ectasias or large loops. The device remains patent over the long term and it is not associated with arterial wall complications.
A genetic role for macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in Epinephelus awoara infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Xu Xiaojin , Sang Benhong , Luo Gang
Published: October 2016

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a key pro-inflammatory cytokine in immuno-inflammatory diseases. For the first time, we examined the expression of MIF in Epinephelus awoara ( E. awoara). MIF expressions have been detected in the head kidney, spleen, liver, brain, intestine, gill, heart, stomach, and muscle of E. awoara infected with Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The mRNA levels observed in infected groupers were higher than those in healthy groupers. MIF, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1 (IL-1) tissue levels have been measured by ELISA. A significant increase in MIF, TNF-α, and IL-1 tissue levels have been found in the treatment groups compared with those in controls. MIF, TNF-α and IL-1 tissue levels in the spleen, head kidney, intestine, and liver of E. awoara during the challenge trial with V. parahaemolyticus were significantly higher than those in controls. There was evidence of functions of MIF in a positive feedback loop with TNF-α and IL-1 that could perpetuate the inflammatory process in grouper infected with V. parahaemolyticus. In conclusion, these results indicated that MIF was related to pathogen-induced immune response.
Physicians’ loyalty to branded medicines in low-middle-income countries: A structural equation modeling
Authors: Mehralian Gholamhossein , Sharif Zahra , Yousefi Nazila , Akhgari Mahdi
Published: October 2016

Objective

As gatekeepers in health continuum, physicians play a pivotal role in persuading patients to consume a specific medicine, and their prescription behavior has a great effect on both healthcare costs and pharmaceutical markets. Taking the important role of physicians in healthcare system into account, in this study we have tried to empirically prioritize those factors that affect physicians’ loyalty behavior in prescribing branded medicines.

Methods

This research is grounded on a survey through which 437 specialist physicians were randomly invited to fill out the questionnaire of the survey. Structural Equation Modeling was performed to evaluate the research model and to test the research hypotheses. In addition to demographic section, six measures were used to evaluate the prescription behavior of physicians in terms of loyalty.

Key findings

The results revealed that there are some factors influencing physicians’ loyalty to branded medicines, among which professional influence is perceived to be the most important factor as compared with others. In contrast, the results rejected this hypothesis that promotional tools such as tangible rewards have a significant effect on physicians’ loyalty behavior.

Conclusions

The results contribute to the pharmaceutical companies endeavoring to develop fair, ethical, and effective marketing strategies to increase physicians’ loyalty to their products. Furthermore, by comparing the results of similar studies, this research has shed light on this fact that influencing factors on brand loyalty may be different across countries over the world.
Becoming a doctoral researcher in a digital world: Reflections on the role of Twitter for reflexivity and the internal conversation
Authors: Rainford Jon
Published: October 2016

Twitter and other social networking sites have much to offer doctoral students, especially given that models for doctoral education are increasingly becoming more diverse with more students studying part-time for traditional PhDs, or on programmes such as professional doctorates. Prior research has highlighted the benefits of Twitter but, as other studies show, its use amongst doctoral students is not always common place. Social networking sites such as Twitter allow for virtual networks to develop and supplement traditional institutional networks, and for many students these are becoming increasingly vital to combat the loneliness of the doctoral researcher. In this paper I have reflected on some of my own uses of Twitter and argue that its impact upon my development can be theorized through Margaret Archer’s notion of the internal conversation. This is done through drawing on autoethnographic reflections of my own doctoral experiences and through this extends understandings of reflexivity into digital spaces. In doing so, this paper also highlights different ways in which Twitter can support these conversations. This paper also foregrounds some of the potential challenges of moving these conversations into a public space, such as the need to build networks, and the potential implications of putting emerging thinking into a permanent form. In considering these issues, this paper offers suggestions on how effective Twitter use can be supported in doctoral training to ensure that doctoral students can enjoy its affordances and be prepared to navigate the potential challenges it poses to the emerging researcher.
Teaching and learning 24/7 using Twitter in a university classroom: Experiences from a developing country
Authors: Chawinga Winner Dominic
Published: October 2016

It is understood that microblogging (tweeting) which is a form of Web 2.0, has been a centre of attraction in some institutions of higher education. However, despite its hype and pomp as reported by some scholars in developed countries, integration of Twitter in a classroom environment in developing countries is just beginning to flourish. In Malawi for example, it remains unknown how Twitter can be effectively assimilated into a university classroom to enhance teaching and learning. In this study therefore, I report on the findings about the practical use of Twitter in two university courses offered in the Department of Library and Information Science at Mzuzu University in Malawi. Findings of the study show that if properly deployed, Twitter is indeed an impetus of the much hailed learner-centred approach to teaching and learning. With the use of Twitter, I found that students shared and discussed course content with colleagues and me (lecturer) 24/7. Specifically, with the proliferation of Internet enabled phones and other mobile devices in Malawi, the study found that it was possible for students to generate out-of-class discussions and learn from each other without necessarily meeting physically. In addition, students were key contributors to their own learning as it was possible to effectively search, generate and share their own content through creating knowledge collaboratively. However, limited access to the Internet (due to unavailability of Wi-Fi) by students coupled with exorbitant Internet bundles, remain key challenges against the effective appropriation of Twitter in a university classroom.
Dosing patterns and medication adherence in bipolar disorder patients treated with lurasidone: a US retrospective claims database analysis
Authors: Sajatovic Martha , Ng-Mak Daisy , Solem Caitlyn T. , Lin Fang-Ju , Rajagopalan Krithika , Loebel Antony
Published: October 2016

Background:

The aim of this study was to describe dosing patterns and medication adherence among bipolar patients who initiated lurasidone in a real-world setting.

Methods:

Adult bipolar patients who initiated lurasidone between 1 November 2010 and 31 December 2012 (index period) with 6-month pre- and post-index continuous enrollment were identified from the IMS RWD Adjudicated Claims US database. Patients were grouped by starting lurasidone daily dose: 20 mg (7.1%), 40 mg (62.2%), 60–80 mg (28.7%), and 120–160 mg (2.1%). Patient characteristics were compared across doses using Cochran–Armitage trend tests. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression assessed the association between initial lurasidone dose and patient characteristics. Medication adherence was measured using medication possession ratio (MPR).

Results:

Of 1114 adult bipolar patients (mean age 40.6 years, 70.6% female), 90% initiated lurasidone at 40 mg or 80 mg/day (mean 51.9 mg/day). Of these, 16.2% initiated lurasidone as monotherapy. Mean lurasidone maintenance dose was 55.2 mg/day and mean MPR was 0.53 [standard deviation (SD) = 0.34] over the 6-month follow up. Substance use, hyperglycemia, obesity, and prior antipsychotic use were associated with higher initial lurasidone doses ( p < 0.05). Odds of a 20 mg/day increase in initial lurasidone dose was 1.6-times higher for patients with substance use [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16−2.24], 2.6-times higher with hyperglycemia problems (95% CI: 1.15−5.83), 1.7-times higher with obesity (95% CI: 1.05−2.60), and 1.3 (95% CI: 1.01−1.78) and 1.8-times higher (95% CI: 1.17−2.86) with prior use of second- and first-generation antipsychotics, respectively.

Conclusions:

This real-world analysis of bipolar patients indicated that 40 mg or 80 mg/day were the most common starting doses of lurasidone. A majority of patients used concomitant psychiatric medications (polypharmacy). Higher doses of lurasidone were prescribed to patients with comorbidities or prior antipsychotic use. Adherence to lurasidone was comparable to or better than antipsychotic adherence reported in bipolar disorder literature.
Switching away from pipotiazine palmitate: a naturalistic study
Authors: Mustafa Feras Ali
Published: October 2016

Background:

In March 2015, pipotiazine palmitate depot antipsychotic was globally withdrawn due to the shortage of its active ingredient. Thus, all patients receiving this medication had to be switched to an alternative antipsychotic drug. In this study we set to evaluate the process of switching away from pipotiazine palmitate within our clinical service, and its impact on hospitalization.

Methods:

Demographic and clinical data on patients who were receiving pipotiazine palmitate in Northamptonshire at the time of its withdrawal were anonymously extracted from their electronic records and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

A total of 17 patients were switched away from pipotiazine palmitate at the time of its withdrawal, all of whom had a prior history of nonadherence with oral treatment. A total of 14 patients were switched to another depot antipsychotic drug, while three patients chose an oral alternative which they subsequently discontinued resulting in relapse and hospitalization. There was a five-fold increase in mean hospitalization among patients who completed a year after the switch.

Conclusion:

Switching away from pipotiazine palmitate was associated with significant clinical deterioration in patients who switched to an oral antipsychotic, whereas most patients who switched to another depot treatment maintained stability. Clinicians should exercise caution when switching patients with schizophrenia away from depot antipsychotic drugs, especially in cases of patients with a history of treatment nonadherence who prefer to switch to oral antipsychotics.
Understanding the relationship transitions and associated end of life clinical needs of young adults with life-limiting illnesses: A triangulated longitudinal qualitative study
Authors: Johnston Bridget , Jindal-Snape Divya , Pringle Jan , Gold Libby , Grant Jayne , Dempsey Raymond , Scott Ros , Carragher Pat
Published: October 2016

Background:

Care of young adults with life-limiting illnesses can often be complex due to the fact that they are growing and developing within the continuing presence of their illness. There is little research conducted nationally and internationally, which has examined the life issues of young adults or taken a longitudinal approach to understand such issues over a period of time.

Aim:

To gain clear understanding of one particular and pertinent life issue—relationship transition—occurring in the context of being a young adult with a life-limiting illness and the clinical needs arising from this.

Design:

This was a triangulated, longitudinal, qualitative study involving young adults with life-limiting illnesses and their significant others, namely, family members and healthcare professionals. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants and analysed using thematic analysis. Clinical case note reviews were also carried out.

Setting/participants:

A total of 12 young adults (aged between 17 and 23 years) from 2 hospices and 22 nominated significant others participated in a total of 58 interviews.

Results:

Thematic analysis revealed 4 main themes and 11 subthemes. The main themes were ‘Dependence dichotomy’, ‘In it together’, ‘Biographical uncertainty’, and ‘Conserving integrity’. These themes helped to establish the nature of relationship transitions that the young adult participants from the study experienced and additionally allowed insight into their possible needs at their end of life.

Conclusion:

This study has identified the nature of relationship transitions pertinent to young adults and has highlighted associated end of life clinical needs. This study can influence further research into the transitions and end of life needs of this particular patient group receiving palliative care, while informing the lacking evidence base which exists internationally.
Recurrent pyriform sinus fistula successfully treated by endoscopic Glubran 2 sealing: A rare case and literature review
Authors: Di Nardo Giovanni , Valentini Valentino , Angeletti Diletta , Frediani Simone , Iannella Giannicola , Cozzi Denis , Roggini Mario , Magliulo Giuseppe
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

The authors present the case of a 3-year-old girl with a history of complicated surgery for removing a third branchial cleft fistula.

Methods:

An endoscopic approach using N-butyl-2-acrylate and metacrilosisolfolane glue (GLUBRAN 2) to seal the fistula was performed.

Results:

The clinical and radiological 6-year follow-up confirmed the absence of the fistulous orifice and the persistence of scar due to previous open-neck surgical procedures.

Conclusion:

endoscopic Glubran 2 sealing has been an effective treatment procedure for branchial fistula.
Related or not? Development of spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in a patient with chronic, well-controlled HIV: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Babi M-Alain , Kraft Bryan D , Sengupta Sweta , Peterson Haley , Orgel Ryan , Wegermann Zachary , Lugogo Njira L , Luedke Matthew W
Published: October 2016

Background:

We report a novel case of a rare disease: spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in a patient with well-controlled HIV. We explore the relationship between spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and HIV.

Case report:

A 66-year-old man with long-standing, well-controlled HIV infection presented with 3 months of progressive, subacute neurocognitive decline. His symptoms included conceptual apraxia, apathy, memory impairment, and gait disturbance, and were initially attributed to depressive “pseudo-dementia.” Unfortunately, the patient’s symptoms rapidly progressed and he ultimately succumbed to his illness. Autopsy confirmed the clinical diagnosis of spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease.

Discussion:

This case highlights spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease as a rare terminal illness in the setting of well-controlled chronic HIV. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient with chronic and previously well-controlled HIV infection dying from a prion disease. Despite the very different epidemiology and pathophysiology of HIV and spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease, this case does raise questions of whether certain host genetic factors could predispose to both conditions, albeit currently, there is no clear causal link between HIV and spontaneous Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease.
Findings and Predictors of Patient-Reported Experience of Primary Health Care in Nigeria
Authors: Ogaji Daprim S , Giles Sally , Daker-White Gavin , Bower Peter
Published: October 2016

Objective:

The study reports findings and patients’ characteristics that predict their experiences of primary health care (PHC) in Nigeria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of 1680 patients attending 24 primary health centers in 6 states from the 6 geopolitical subdivisions in Nigeria. The patient evaluation scale was used for exit survey of patients’ experiences with PHC. Categorical findings and mean ratings on experiences of PHC were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results:

The mean response rate was 98%, and most respondents were female (73%) and married (72%). A higher proportion of patients gave positive feedback on their relationships with staff (84%) than they did available space in the waiting area (60%). Higher self-rated health status and nonpayment for care at the point of receipt were consistent predictors of positive patient experiences from the multilevel analysis.

Conclusion:

Study reported findings and drivers of patient experiences with PHC. Aspects of PHC showing less positive patient experiences and some patients’ factors associated with these are amenable to change and can form the focus of quality improvement actions.
Visualization of Blood Flow in an Undermined Pressure Ulcer Revealed by Sonographic Imaging and Clutter Suppression Post-Processing
Authors: Yabunaka Koichi , Nakagami Gojiro , Kitamura Aya , Miyagaki Tomomitsu , Hayashi Akitatsu , Sasaki Sanae , Sanada Hiromi
Published: October 2016

The authors report a case of a middle-age man presenting with a category IV pressure ulcer (PU) over the sacrum. Undermining of the PU was assessed with the aid of gray-scale sonography (US), color Doppler US, power Doppler US, and a microvascular imaging technique employing advanced clutter suppression. Clutter suppression post-processing the study allowed for the evaluation of low-velocity microvascular flow in the undermined PU and facilitated the choice of appropriate treatment.
An oxidative stress-based mechanism of doxorubicin cytotoxicity suggests new therapeutic strategies in ABC-DLBCL
Authors: Mai Yun , Yu J. Jessica , Bartholdy Boris , Xu-Monette Zijun Y. , Knapp Esther E. , Yuan Fei , Chen Hongshan , Ding B. Belinda , Yao Zhihua , Das Bhaskar , Zou Yiyu , Young Ken He , Parekh Samir , Ye B. Hilda
Published: October 2016

Key Points

Dox causes DNA damage inefficiently in ABC-DLBCL because of preferential cytoplasmic localization. STAT3 promotes resistance to ROS-mediated Dox cytotoxicity by upregulating the expression of SOD2.
Imaging of Congenital Malformations
Authors: McVige Jennifer W.
Published: October 2016

Purpose of Review: Intracranial congenital malformations are anomalies of brain development caused by genetic and environmental influences. This article discusses common intracranial congenital malformations, presents the associated neuroimaging findings, and discusses how appropriate identification of intracranial anomalies can impact diagnosis and treatment.

Recent Findings: Advances in neuroimaging techniques and genetic research have led to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of many congenital malformations, adding insight into their clinical relevance and the intricate relationship between critical periods of development, genetic predisposition, and environmental insults. When one malformation is discovered, a high likelihood of more malformations exists. In some instances, the intracranial anomalies will lead to the diagnosis of a particular neurologic syndrome, which may, in turn, lead to modification of a plan of care.

Summary: Knowledge of congenital malformations and their appearance on imaging sequences is essential to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients.
What Was “Close Reading”?
Authors: Smith Barbara Herrnstein
Published: October 2016

The article is concerned with the history of “close reading,” understood as a practice crucial to the field of literary studies, vis-à-vis “distant reading,” a range of computational methods identified with the digital humanities. It looks at some early controversies regarding close reading and “the New Criticism,” the movement associated with it, and at how the practice has figured in Anglo-American literary studies over the course of the past century. It turns then to how a certain idea of “close reading” has come to figure in the discourses of the digital humanities. At the end, it offers some general reflections on methods, past and possibly future, in literary studies.
Gaming Labor
Authors: Wilkie Rob
Published: October 2016

Video games have become a significant aspect of the technology industry, yet they have also become for many the image of an emerging contradiction said to reside at the heart of digital capitalism, namely that capitalism is no longer based upon the exploitation of workers' labor by owners but rather upon tenuous control over the commons and creativity of the multitude. Examining the concept of general intellect through a comparison of the readings of such writers as Michael Hardt, Antonio Negri, Paulo Virno, Nick Dyer-Witheford, and Greg de Peuter with Marx's theorization of the connection between science, technology, and labor in the Grundrisse, I argue that the dominant readings of the “ludo economy” of video games work to ideologically obscure a revolutionary critique of digital capitalism based upon the labor theory of value.
Jameson's Spiritual Reawakening
Authors: Faivre Robert
Published: October 2016

Fredric Jameson's reading of Wal-Mart as a figure of a postcapitalism-to-come is exemplary of the market logic that value is produced outside production in distribution and consumption. Through his dialectics of ambivalence, Jameson produces an analysis that empties the social relations of their class content by making social transformation into an affective and spontaneous action. In this sense, Jameson's celebrated reading of Wal-Mart is indicative of the general reading of global capitalism on the “radical” Left today, which spiritualizes Marx's materialist dialectic by emphasizing form over content and turns theory into crisis management on behalf of the ruling class.
New Materialism and the Labor Theory of Value
Authors: Cotter Jennifer
Published: October 2016

New materialism claims to offer a postanthropocentric advance over historical materialism by displacing human labor with the “vital agency” of all matter: from humans to objects and machines. By equating people with the objects they produce and positing the autopoiesis of things, new materialism inverts its own basis in commodity production and offers a new metaphysics of matter in which the ideology of exchange—which conceals the exploitation of labor in production—is writ large as the ontological basis of “life” as such. The main difference between vitalism and historical materialism is not (post)anthropocentrism but the class each represents.
Localization of planarian β-CATENIN-1 reveals multiple roles during anterior-posterior regeneration and organogenesis
Authors: Sureda-Gómez Miquel , Martín-Durán José M. , Adell Teresa
Published: October 2016

The β-catenin-dependent Wnt pathway exerts multiple context-dependent roles in embryonic and adult tissues. In planarians, β-catenin-1 is thought to specify posterior identities through the generation of an anteroposterior gradient. However, the existence of such a gradient has not been directly demonstrated. Here, we use a specific polyclonal antibody to demonstrate that nuclear β-CATENIN-1 exists as an anteroposterior gradient from the pre-pharyngeal region to the tail of the planarian Schmidtea polychroa. High levels in the posterior region steadily decrease towards the pre-pharyngeal region but then increase again in the head region. During regeneration, β-CATENIN-1 is nuclearized in both anterior and posterior blastemas, but the canonical WNT1 ligand only influences posterior nuclearization. Additionally, β-catenin-1 is required for proper anterior morphogenesis, consistent with the high levels of nuclear β-CATENIN-1 observed in this region. We further demonstrate that β-CATENIN-1 is abundant in developing and differentiated organs, and is particularly required for the specification of the germline. Altogether, our findings provide the first direct evidence of an anteroposterior nuclear β-CATENIN-1 gradient in adult planarians and uncover novel, context-dependent roles for β-catenin-1 during anterior regeneration and organogenesis.
A Novel and Facile Route for the Electrosynthesis of Ho2O3 Nanoparticles and Its Nanocomposite with p-Type Conductive Polymer: Characterisation and Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Shiri Hamid Mohammad , Ehsani Ali
Published: October 2016

In this paper, a simple and rapid electrochemical method has been carried out to prepare Holmium oxide (Ho2O3) nanoparticles and composite film to serve as the active material in an energy storage electrode. Hybrid films of poly ortho aminophenol (POAP) and Ho2O3 were obtained through potentiodynamic deposition from solutions of ortho aminophenol and Ho2O3. The hybrid films demonstrated characteristic redox behaviors of POAP in acidic aqueous solution. Structural and morphological characterizations of Ho2O3 and composite film were carried out using powder X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Their electrochemical properties were also investigated using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Electrosynthesized composite had excellent properties in the capacitance and a columbic efficiency of 94%. This work introduces new nanocomposite materials for energy storage electrodes with advantages including ease of synthesis, high active surface area and stability in an aqueous electrolyte.
Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometric Study of Protonated and Alkali-Cationized α/ε-Hybrid Peptides: Differentiation of a Pair of Dipeptide Positional Isomers
Authors: Babu A. Ramesh , Raju G. , Chander C. Purna , Babu B. Shoban , Srinivas R. , Sharma G.V.M.
Published: October 2016

A new class of Boc-N-protected hybrid peptides derived from L-Ala and ε6-Caa (L-Ala = L-Alanine, Caa = C-linked carboamino acid derived from D-xylose) have been studied by positive ion electrospray ionization (ESI) ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). MS n spectra of protonated and alkali-cationized hybrid peptides produce characteristic fragmentation involving the peptide backbone, the tert-butyloxycarbonyl (Boc) group, and the side chain. The dipeptide positional isomers are differentiated by the collision-induced dissociation (CID) of the protonated and alkali-cationized peptides. The CID of [M + H]+ ion of Boc-NH-L-Ala-ε-Caa-OCH3 (1) shows a prominent [M + H – C4H8]+ ion, which is totally absent for its positional isomer Boc-NH-ε-Caa-L-Ala-OCH3 (6), which instead shows significant loss of t-butanol. The formation of the [M + Cat – C4H8]+ ion is totally absent and [M + Cat – Boc + H]+ is prominent in the CID of the [M + Cat]+ ion of Boc-NH-L-Ala-ε-Caa-OCH3 (1), whereas the former is highly abundant and the latter is of low abundance for its positional isomer Boc-NH-ε-Caa-L-Ala-OCH3 (6). It is observed that ‘b’ ions are abundant when oxazolone structures are formed through a five-membered cyclic transition state in tetra-, penta-, and hexapeptides and the cyclization process for larger ‘b’ ions led to an insignificant abundance. However, the significant ‘b’ ion is formed in ε,α-dipeptide, which may have a seven-membered substituted 2-oxoazepanium ion structure. The MS n spectra of [M + Cat – Boc + H]+ ions of these peptides are found to be significantly different to those of [M + H – Boc + H]+ ions. The CID spectra of [M + Cat – Boc + H]+ ions of peptide acids containing L-Ala at the C-terminus show an abundant N-terminal rearrangement ion, [b n + 17 + Cat]+, which is absent for the peptide acids containing ε-Caa at the C-terminus. Thus, the results of these hybrid peptides provide sequencing information, the structure of the cyclic intermediate involved in the formation of the rearrangement ion, and distinguish a pair of dipeptide positional isomers.
A Simple Protocol for Quantitative Analysis of Bio-Oils through Gas-Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Bartoli Mattia , Rosi Luca , Frediani Marco , Frediani Piero
Published: October 2016

A new and simple protocol for quantitative analysis of bio-oils using gas-chromatography/mass spectrometry is suggested. Compounds were identified via their mass spectra, and then unavailable response factors were calculated with respect to diphenyl as the internal standard using a modified method previously suggested for gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. This new protocol was applied to the characterization of bio-oils obtained from the pyrolysis of woods of different sources or using different pyrolysis procedures. This protocol allowed evaluation of the yields of products from poplar pyrolysis (among 50% and 99%), while a reduced amounts of products were identified from the pyrolysis of cellulose (between 46% and 58%). The main product was always acetic acid, but it was formed in very large yields from poplar while lower yields were obtained from cellulose.
Quantification of Methanol in the Presence of Ethanol by Selected Ion Flow Tube Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chambers-Bédard Catherine , Ross Brian M.
Published: October 2016

The quantification of trace compounds in alcoholic beverages is a useful means to both investigate the chemical basis of beverage fLavor and to facilitate quality control during the production process. One compound of interest is methanol which, due to it being toxic, must not exceed regulatory limits. The analysis of headspace gases is a desirable means to do this since it does not require direct sampling of the liquid material. One established means to conduct headspace analysis is selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT-MS). The high concentration of ethanol present in the headspace of alcoholic drinks complicates the analysis, however, via reacting with the precursor ions central to this technique. We therefore investigated whether methanol could be quantified in the presence of a large excess of ethanol using SIFT-MS. We found that methanol reacted with ionized ethanol to generate product ions that could be used to quantify methanol concentrations and used this technique to quantify methanol in beverages containing different quantities of ethanol. We conclude that SIFT-MS can be used to quantify trace compounds in alcoholic beverages by determining the relevant reaction chemistry.
TECHNOLOGICAL MODE EFFECT OF FINISH GRINDING ON TRIBOTECHNICAL INDICES OF SURFACES MACHINED
Authors: Суслов Анатолий , Suslov Anatoliy , Бишутин Сергей , Bishutin Sergey , Сакало Владимир , Sakalo Vladimir
Published: October 2016

Grinding is the most common finish stage of friction surface machining. The surface machined is transferred in a non-equilibrium state in consequence of thermal and power effect at grinding. During friction part material strives for a more equilibrium state in microcontacts of surface layers due to the presence of a considerable share of a defect phase formed at finish grinding. It is evident that the process of the material transition from a nonequilibrium state (after grinding) into a more equilibrium state (at surface runningin) and mainly defines the character of modes and finish grinding effect upon surface tribotechnical indices (wear intensity, runningin period, constant of friction).

The researches were carried out in two stages. In the first stage at the expense of changes of grinding depth and time of surface sparking-out (that is, the intensity and duration of thermal and power effect of grinding on a sample) there were formed surface layers with different parameters on steel samples. In the second stage of investigations there were carried out tribotechnical tests of grinded samples under the same conditions and, in such a way the effect of grinding modes on surface durability was evaluated.

On the basis of the results there were revealed the dependences of sample wear on test time and also dependences for the computation of wear intensity in grinded surfaces made of different structural materials.

It is shown that at the abrasion there are possi-bilities for considerable increase (up to several times) of machinery surfaces durability by means of grinding depth changes and time of surface sparkingout, as these technological modes define the intensity and duration of thermal and power effects of abrasion upon a surface layer.
CARBON MASS TRANSFER REGULARITIES AT CASE-HARDENING IN LOW-PRESSURE ATMOSPHERE AND BOUNDARY CONDITIONS OF SIMULATOR
Authors: Рыжова Мария , Ryzhova Mariya , Демидов Павел , Demidov Pavel , Семенов Михаил , Semenov Mikhail , Королев Илья , Korolev Ilya
Published: October 2016

By significant advantages over other methods of case-hardening possess processes carried out in oxygenfree environment, in particular, vacuum and ionic atmospheres which are used for surface strengthening the most critical parts of machinery and tools. These processes are characterized with a great amount of possible options of technological modes, an optimum choice of which is difficult through an experimental way. That is why a wide practical use found simulators of vacuum and ionic case-hardening in which the boundary conditions describe carbon mass transfer from working medium into metal. It is determined in an experimental way that at vacuum and ionic case-hardening in working medium having hydrocarbons, in particular, acetylene upon a saturated metal surface is formed either graphite or cementite which are a source for carbon diffuse into a metal depth. Thereupon at the formation of simulators boundary conditions it is necessary to take into account that carbon activity in these stages is equal to 1. That is why in boundary conditions should be introduced carbon concentrations in austenite corresponding to these activities. An obtained earlier through methods of spectral analysis direct proportionality between a carbonizing capacity of working medium and an acetylene content in it is explained by hydrocarbon thermal decomposition offered by a basis reaction at which Pauly quantummechanical principle is carried out. The results obtained are true both for vacuum, and for ionic working medium used at case-hardening as the ionization of latter does not exceed 10% of vol.
MATERIAL MODIFICATION IN GLOW DISCHARGE
Authors: Терешко Валерий , Tereshko Valeriy , Терешко Ирина , Tereshko Irina , Логвин Владимир , Logvin Vladimir , Шептунов Сергей , Sheptunov Sergey
Published: October 2016

The development of new methods to improve physical and stressstrain properties of materials is an important contribution to the development of modern technologies and targeted control of their behavior. The optimum combination of stressstrain properties and electrical ones to improve performance attributes of materials is very important. The basic purpose of this work is the study of long-term effects in materials resistivity changes after treatment in a glow discharge. There are presented the results of measurements of a resistivity relative value in copper-graphite insertions after a radiation treatment in a glow discharge. The graphic dependences obtained show that in the course of two years in samples a long-lived state, a structure of irradiated composite material remains. It is a sign of that the improvement of performance attributes of insertions investigated bears longterm character. An anomalous temperature dependence of electric resistance after an irradiation treatment if a glow discharge was detected in technical copper samples. First of all this anomaly manifests itself in copper resis-tivity decrease after an irradiation treatment at different temperatures obtained that is contrary to the fact determined of the simultaneous increase of dislocations density in samples irradiated.
METHODS FOR MODELS PARAMETERS ESTIMATE TO SOLVE PROBLEMS ON 3D RECONSTRUCTION OF REAL OBJECTS COMPLEX MODELS
Authors: Колякин Владислав , Kolyakin Vladislav , Аверченков Владимир , Averchenkov Vladimir , Терехов Максим , Terekhov Maksim
Published: October 2016

Virtual threedimensional (3 D) models of complex objects are used in many fields of science and engineering, such as architecture, industry, medicine, robotics. Besides, 3D models are used in geoinformation systems, computer games, virtual and supplemented reality and so on. Three dimensional models can be formed in dif-ferent ways, one of which consists in 3 D reconstruc-tion. One of the stages of the 3 D reconstruction of complex models of real objects is a definition of the mathematical models of geometric primitives emphasized on the image. One of the ways for the estimate of model parameters is a method of Hough vote and its modifications – Hough probabilistic transformation, Hough random transformation, Hough hierarchical transformation, phase space blurriness, use of a gra-dient of image brightness and so on. As an alternative way for models selection is a choice of suitable points from a set of data.
An Analysis of the Differences among Log Scaling Methods and Actual Log Volume
Authors: Thomas R. Edward , Bennett Neal D.
Published: October 2016

Log rules estimate the volume of green lumber that can be expected to result from the sawing of a log. As such, this ability to reliably predict lumber recovery forms the foundation of log sales and purchase. The more efficient a sawmill, the less the scaling methods reflect the actual volume recovery and the greater the overrun factor. Using high-resolution scanned log data and the RAYSAW hardwood log sawing simulator, we compared recovery results for a 32-log sample with data from other mills and examined the overrun factors for common log scaling methods. With the sample logs, we saw underruns as low as −31.9 percent and overruns as high as 159.4 percent depending on log rule and log characteristics. Given the measurement accuracy of laser profiling systems and computing speed, it is relatively easy to determine log volume and recovery both quickly and with heretofore unknown accuracy. The log rules commonly in use today were all developed over 100 years ago: Doyle in 1825, Scribner in 1846, and International ¼-Inch in 1906. Both the logs from the forest and processing methods and equipment in the mills have changed since then. As such, the log rules are not as relevant to modern mills and today's timber supply as they once were. Given modern developments in laser measurement systems, mill operators have much better tools available to access log supply.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) IL-10 (RS 1800896) pada Infeksi Bakteri Gram negatif dan TLR-2 (RS 3804099) Infeksi Bakteri Gram positif Pada Sepsis Neonatorum
Authors: Kamelia Lia , Effendi Sjarif Hidajat
Published: October 2016

Latar belakang. Sepsis neonatorum merupakan masalah kesehatan dengan tingkat morbiditas dan mortalitas yang tinggi. Kulturdarah sebagai gold standar diagnostic hanya memberikan hasil positif sekitar 40%. Latar belakang genetik saat ini diakui berkontribusiterhadap respons imunologis inangTujuan. Menentukan hubungan SNP IL-10 (rs 1800896) dengan infeksi bakteri Gram negatif dan TLR-2 (rs 3804099)dengan infeksi bakteri Gram positif pada sepsis neonatorum.Metode. Penelitian rancangan cross sectional pada sepsis neonatorum. Subjek dengan hasil kultur darah positif dilakukan analisisgenetik single nucleotide polymorphisms IL-10 (rs1800896) dan TLR-2 (rs3804099), dengan tahapan isolasi deoxyribonucleat acid(DNA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), dan sekuensing DNA.Hasil. Tidak didapatkan hasil yang bermakna (p>0,05) SNP IL-10 (rs1800896) dengan infeksi bakteri Gram negatifdan SNP TLR-2(rs3804099) dengan infeksi bakteri Gram positifKesimpulan. Tidak terdapat hubungan single nucleotide polymorphism (snp) IL-10 (rs 1800896) dengan infeksi bakteri Gramnegatifdan TLR-2 (rs 3804099) dengan infeksi bakteri Gram positif pada sepsis neonatorm.
Faktor Risiko pada Lama Rawat dan Luaran Pasien Perawatan di Unit Perawatan Intensif Anak RSUP Sanglah Denpasar
Authors: Sudarmadji Silvia , Wati Dyah Kanya , Sidiartha Lanang
Published: October 2016

Latar belakang. Penelitian yang menelaah hubungan faktor risiko jenis kelamin, usia, status gizi, pemakaian jenis terapi oksigen, danpemberian sedini mungkin nutrisi enteral terhadap lama rawat dan luaran perawatan UPIA belum banyak dilakukan.Tujuan. Menilai pengaruh faktor risiko jenis kelamin, usia, status gizi, pemakaian jenis terapi oksigen, pemberian nutrisi enteral diniterhadap lama rawat dan luaran mortalitas pasien.Metode. Penelitian analitik observasional dengan rancang kohort prospektif dilakukan selama periode Mei sampai Juli 2015 terhadap81 pasien usia 1 bulan sampai 12 tahun di rawat di UPIA RSUP Sanglah, Denpasar.Hasil. Terdapat 59,3% pasien laki-laki, 65,4% berusia <5 tahun, berstatus gizi buruk 6,2%, pemakaian jenis terapi oksigen nasalkanula 51,9% dan 60,5% pemberian nutrisi enteral <48 jam. Faktor risiko status gizi dan pemakaian jenis terapi oksigen berbedabermakna (p<0,05) terhadap lama perawatan UPIA. Usia <5 tahun (RR 2,818; IK95% 0,897-8,854), pemakaian jenis terapi oksigen(p<0,001), terutama jenis intubasi (RR 6,000; IK95% 2,775-12,972) dan pemberian nutrisi enteral ≥48 jam (RR 0,003; IK95%1,406-7,830) merupakan faktor risiko terhadap luaran perawatan UPIA, tetapi hanya faktor risiko pengunaan terapi oksigen, terutamajenis intubasi berperan dan berisiko luaran meninggal 16,576 kali terhadap pasien (RR:16,576; IK95% 2,688-102,225).Kesimpulan. Faktor risiko status gizi dan pemakaian alat oksigenasi memperpanjang durasi lama rawat. Usia <5 tahun, pemakaianalat oksigenasi, dan waktu asupan nutrisi ≥48 jam terbukti meningkatkan faktor risiko mortalitas