bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pimecrolimus vs. tacrolimus for the topical treatment of unresponsive oral erosive lichen planus: a 8 week randomized double‐blind controlled study
Authors: Arduino P.G. , Carbone M. , Della Ferrera F. , Elia, A. , Conrotto D. , Gambino A. , Comba A. , Calogiuri P.L. , Broccoletti R.
Published: March 2013

Background

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disease, affecting nearly 1–2% of the population; Proposed therapies are usually symptomatic and numerous drugs have been used, but recently, it has been published that there is insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of any specific treatment as being superior. To the best of our knowledge, direct evaluation of the efficacy of topically applied pimecrolimus and tacrolimus in the treatment of atrophic‐erosive OLP, refractory to topical steroids, is still lacking.

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of topical calcineurin inhibitors for unresponsive OLP. An 8 week randomized, double‐blind controlled trial, followed by a 6 month follow‐up period. Patients were treated with either pimecrolimus 1% cream or tacrolimus 0.1% ointment, both mixed with an equivalent amount of 4% hydroxyethyl cellulose gel. The medications were to be applied twice daily for 2 months. Each patient was examined at the beginning of therapy, and then every 2 weeks during the treatment and every 3 months of follow‐up. Main outcome measures were: (i) to compare the effectiveness of topically applied pimecrolimus and tacrolimus; (ii) to evaluate which is more cost‐effective; (iii) to determine which drug is faster in reducing signs and symptoms and (iv) which gives the longest remission.

Results

Thirty patients were involved in the study. Both drugs were effective at inducing clinical improvement, with no statistical difference. Pimecrolimus creams revealed a significantly better stability of the therapeutic effectiveness (P = 0.031).

Conclusion

Both medications would currently appear to be a treatment of choice for patients with unresponsive atrophic‐erosive OLP. Pimecrolimus seemed to be more effective in providing long‐term resolution of signs and symptoms. Future efforts are however needed to obtain more objective evidence of the benefit of these medications in the treatment of immunologically mediated oral mucosal lesion.
Susceptibility of Morganella morganii to Various Environmental Stresses after Cold and Heat Shock Treatments
Authors: Zarei Mehdi , Maktabi Siavash , Khezrzadeh Marjan , Jamnejad Amirhesam
Published: March 2013

Morganella morganii was subjected to cold shock treatment at 10C for 2 h or heat shock treatment at 42C for 45 min. The effect of these shock treatments on the viability of M. morganii under adverse conditions was investigated. Viability of M. morganii cells during storage at 4C was slightly affected by cold shock treatment under the conditions tested (P > 0.05). However, a significant increase in the viable population of the cold‐shocked cells was found in the subsequent challenge of −18C, as compared with the nonshocked cells (P < 0.05). In addition, cold‐shocked cells became more susceptible to high incubation temperature (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, cold shock treatment did not alter the susceptibility of this bacterium to 1.0 mM H2O2, 20% NaCl and low pH (pH, 3.5). On the contrary, heat shock treatment increased the susceptibility of M. morganii to low incubation temperatures and H2O2, while made the cells more resistant to high temperature. As in the cold shock treatment, heat shock treatment under the conditions tested did not affect the susceptibility of M. morganii to NaCl and low pH.

Practical Applications

These findings may be of significant importance with regard to food safety because cooling chains and heating regimes do exist in the food industry, which could potentially induce a cold or heat shock phenomenon.
Protein kinase Cβ is a modulator of the dopamine D2 autoreceptor‐activated trafficking of the dopamine transporter
Authors: Chen Rong , Daining Conor P. , Sun Haiguo , Fraser Rheaclare , Stokes Stephanie L. , Leitges Michael , Gnegy Margaret E.
Published: March 2013

The strength and duration of extracellular dopamine concentrations are regulated by the presynaptic dopamine transporter (DAT) and dopamine D2 autoreceptors (D2autoRs). There is a functional interaction between these two proteins. Activation of D2autoRs increases DAT trafficking to the surface whereas disruption of this interaction compromises activities of both proteins and alters dopaminergic transmission. Previously we reported that DAT expression and activity are subject to modulation by protein kinase Cβ (PKCβ). Here, we further demonstrate that PKCβ is integral for the interaction between DAT and D2autoR. Inhibition or absence of PKCβ abolished the communication between DAT and D2autoR. In mouse striatal synaptosomes and transfected N2A cells, the D2autoR‐stimulated membrane insertion of DAT was abolished by PKCβ inhibition. Moreover, D2autoR‐stimulated DAT trafficking is mediated by a PKCβ‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase signaling cascade where PKCβ is upstream of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase. The increased surface DAT expression upon D2autoR activation resulted from enhanced DAT recycling as opposed to reduced internalization. Further, PKCβ promoted accelerated DAT recycling. Our study demonstrates that PKCβ critically regulates D2autoR‐activated DAT trafficking and dopaminergic signaling. PKCβ is a potential drug target for correcting abnormal extracellular dopamine levels in diseases such as drug addiction and schizophrenia.
Effect of ozone therapy on autogenous bone graft healing in calvarial defects: a histologic and histometric study in rats
Authors: Ozdemir H. , Toker H. , Balcı H. , Ozer H.
Published: March 2013

Aim

The purpose of this study was to analyze histologically the effect of ozone therapy in combination with autogenous bone graft on bone healing in rat calvaria.

Methods

Critical size defects were created in calvaria of 27 male Wistar rats. The animals were divided into three groups of nine animals each: autogenous bone graft group (n = 9); autogenous bone graft with ozone therapy group (80%, 30 s 3 d for 2 wk, n = 9); non‐treatment (control) group (n = 9). Animals were killed after 8 wk. Histomorphometric assessments, using image analysis software, and histological analyses were performed. Primary outcome was total bone area. Secondary outcomes (osteoblast number, new bone formation) were also measured.

Results

Histomorphometrically, the total bone area in the autogenous bone graft with ozone therapy group (9.3 ± 2.2) were significantly higher than that of the autogenous bone graft group (5.1 ± 1.8) (p < 0.05). Also, the ozone therapy group significantly increased the percentage of total bone area compared to the autogenous bone graft group (p < 0.05). The osteoblast number significantly increased in the autogenous bone graft with the ozone therapy group (58 ± 12.3) compared to the autogenous bone graft group (9.3 ± 3.5) (p < 0.05). Also, it was observed that autogenous bone graft with ozone therapy group showed significant new bone formation when compared to the autogenous bone graft group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Ozone therapy enhances new bone formation by autogenous bone graft in the rat calvarial defect model.
Ethical and evidential considerations on the use of novel therapies in veterinary practice
Authors: Yeates J. , Everitt S. , Innes J. F. , Day M. J.
Published: March 2013

Novel therapies may be necessary both in the interests of the individual animal and in the advancement of veterinary science. However, special consideration is necessary to safeguard the welfare of the animals, ensure fully informed consent from the owner, determine the procedure's value in other cases and appropriately disseminate results. This article reviews ethical and evidential considerations raised when novel therapies are undertaken in veterinary practice, based on a series of committee meetings and intervening discussions held between members of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee and Officers (2010–2011). The aim of this article is to encourage the advancement of novel veterinary therapies while safeguarding the welfare of animals.
STIR muscle hyperintensity in the cervical muscles associated with inflammatory spinal cord disease of unknown origin
Authors: Eminaga S. , Cherubini G. B. , Villiers E. , Targett M. , Caine A.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

To assess the relation of a distinctive pattern of short tau inversion recovery muscle hyperintensity with inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid result in dogs.

Methods

All dogs that had a short tau inversion recovery sequence performed in addition to other magnetic resonance sequences of the cervical spine and concurrent cerebrospinal fluid evaluation during the study period were included. All magnetic resonance studies were anonymised and reviewed by a board certified radiologist and board certified neurologist. A board certified pathologist examined the cerebrospinal fluid and the results were reviewed.

Results

Forty‐nine cases fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Repeatable patterns of short tau inversion recovery hyperintensity were identified in 20 dogs. The clinical diagnosis in all these 20 cases was of meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin. This diagnosis was confirmed by inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid changes in 18 and suspected from clinical presentation and response to therapy in the remaining 2.

Clinical Significance

In this study, the short tau inversion recovery changes identified were restricted to cases with inflammatory spinal cord disease. The short tau inversion recovery change had a sensitivity of 78%, and a specificity of 92% in predicting inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting that short tau inversion recovery sequences are a useful addition to the investigation of suspected inflammatory spinal cord disease.
Characterisation of changes in the haemostasis system in dogs with thrombosis
Authors: Bauer N. , Moritz A.
Published: March 2013

Objective

To prospectively assess (2008 to 2009) all phases of coagulation including thromboelastography in dogs with thrombosis to determine if thrombosis is associated with hypercoagulable states.

Methods

Coagulation reaction in dogs with thrombosis (n = 7) diagnosed by diagnostic imaging or histopathology was compared with 56 control dogs. Dogs pretreated with antiplatelet and anticoagulation drugs were excluded. Thromboelastographic G‐values >10 · 3 Kdyn/cm2 were used to define a hypercoagulable state.

Results

Compared with the controls, there was a significantly higher mean platelet component indicating lower platelet activation status (17 · 99 ±1 · 36 versus 20 · 48 ±2 · 04 g/dL, P = 0 · 0004), increased thromboelastographic G‐value (6 · 4 ±1 · 6 versus 13 · 1 ±6 · 2 Kdyn/cm2, P = 0 · 0029), activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, D‐dimers (all: P < 0 · 0001) as well as decreased antithrombin (P = 0 · 0049), factor VIII (P < 0 · 0001), protein C (P < 0 · 0001), protein S (P = 0 · 0373) and activated protein C‐ratio (P = 0 · 0013). On the basis of thromboelastographic G‐value, three of six thromboelastographic tracings were classified as normocoagulable and three as hypercoagulable.

Clinical Relevance

In dogs with thrombosis, both normo‐ and hypercoagulable states are present and activated protein C resistance is common.
Foetal echoencephalography and Doppler ultrasonography of the middle cerebral artery in canine foetuses
Authors: Feliciano M. A. R. , Nepomuceno A. C. , Crivalero R. M. , Oliveira M. E. F. , Coutinho L. N. , Vicente W. R. R.
Published: March 2013

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the brain and vascular indicesof the middle cerebral artery of canine foetuses.

Methods

Twenty‐five bitches were selected. Tissue development, echogenicity, echotexture and brain echobiometric data were studied, and the major structures were identified between the 5th and 8th gestational weeks. The area and volume of the brain mass (BMA and BMV), cranial area and volume (AC and VC), brain mass index (BMI) and brain volume index (BVI) were determined. A single ultrasound examination was performed during each studied week (6th, 7th and 8th). Doppler ultrasonography was performed to assess the maximum and minimum velocity, resistance and pulsatility index of middle cerebral artery of the foetuses.

Results

Echoencephalography was performed to evaluate the morphological characteristics of the central nervous system. Cerebral echobiometry indicated an increase in area and volume of the hemispheres and cranium (P<0·001) but no changes in BMI or BVI over the gestational period studied. Doppler ultrasonography identified increases in peak systolic velocity (P=0·0188) and end diastolic velocity (P=0·0274) and decreases in resistance index (P=0·0002) and pulsatility index (P<0·001).

Clinical Significance

Echoencephalography and spectral Doppler ultrasonography of the middle cerebral artery in canine foetuses might be a useful technique for prenatal care.
Sympatric diversification vs. immigration: deciphering host‐plant specialization in a polyphagous insect, the stolbur phytoplasma vector Hyalesthes obsoletus (Cixiidae)
Authors: Imo Miriam , Maixner Michael , Johannesen Jes
Published: March 2013

The epidemiology of vector transmitted plant diseases is highly influenced by dispersal and the host‐plant range of the vector. Widening the vector's host range may increase transmission potential, whereas specialization may induce specific disease cycles. The process leading to a vector's host shift and its epidemiological outcome is therefore embedded in the frameworks of sympatric evolution vs. immigration of preadapted populations. In this study, we analyse whether a host shift of the stolbur phytoplasma vector, Hyalesthes obsoletus from field bindweed to stinging nettle in its northern distribution range evolved sympatrically or by immigration. The exploitation of stinging nettle has led to outbreaks of the grapevine disease bois noir caused by a stinging nettle‐specific phytoplasma strain. Microsatellite data from populations from northern and ancestral ranges provide strong evidence for sympatric host‐race evolution in the northern range: Host‐plant associated populations were significantly differentiated among syntopic sites (0.054 < FHT < 0.098) and constant over 5 years. While gene flow was asymmetric from the old into the predicted new host race, which had significantly reduced genetic diversity, the genetic identity between syntopic host‐race populations in the northern range was higher than between these populations and syntopic populations in ancestral ranges, where there was no evidence for genetic host races. Although immigration was detected in the northern field bindweed population, it cannot explain host‐race diversification but suggests the introduction of a stinging nettle‐specific phytoplasma strain by plant‐unspecific vectors. The evolution of host races in the northern range has led to specific vector‐based bois noir disease cycles.
Spatial scale affects landscape genetic analysis of a wetland grasshopper
Authors: Keller Daniela , Holderegger Rolf , van Strien Maarten J.
Published: March 2013

Most landscape genetic studies assess the impact of landscape elements on species' dispersal and gene flow. Many of these studies perform their analysis on all possible population pairs in a study area and do not explicitly consider the effects of spatial scale and population network topology on their results. Here, we examined the effects of spatial scale and population network topology on the outcome of a landscape genetic analysis. Additionally, we tested whether the relevant spatial scale of landscape genetic analysis could be defined by population network topology or by isolation‐by‐distance (IBD) patterns. A data set of the wetland grasshopperStethophyma grossum, collected in a fragmented agricultural landscape, was used to analyse population network topology,IBDpatterns and dispersal habitats, using least‐cost transect analysis. Landscape genetic analyses neglecting spatial scale and population network topology resulted in models with low fits, with which a most likely dispersal habitat could not be identified. In contrast, analyses considering spatial scale and population network topology resulted in high model fits by restricting landscape genetic analysis to smaller scales (0–3 km) and neighbouring populations, as represented by aGabriel graph. These models also successfully identified a likely dispersal habitat ofS. grossum. The above results suggest that spatial scale and potentially population network topology should be more explicitly considered in future landscape genetic analyses.
Do pathogens reduce genetic diversity of their hosts? Variable effects of sylvatic plague in black‐tailed prairie dogs
Authors: Sackett Loren C. , Collinge Sharon K. , Martin Andrew P.
Published: March 2013

Introduced diseases can cause dramatic declines in—and even the loss of—natural populations. Extirpations may be followed by low recolonization rates, leading to inbreeding and a loss of genetic variation, with consequences on population viability. Conversely, extirpations may create vacant habitat patches that individuals from multiple source populations can colonize, potentially leading to an influx of variation. We tested these alternative hypotheses by sampling 15 colonies in a prairie dog metapopulation during 7 years that encompassed an outbreak of sylvatic plague, providing the opportunity to monitor genetic diversity before, during and after the outbreak. Analysis of nine microsatellite loci revealed that within the metapopulation, there was no change in diversity. However, within extirpated colonies, patterns varied: In half of the colonies, allelic richness after recovery was less than the preplague conditions, and in the other half, richness was greater than the preplague conditions. Finally, analysis of variation within individuals revealed that prairie dogs present in recolonized colonies had higher heterozygosity than those present before plague. We confirmed plague survivorship in six founders; these individuals had significantly higher heterozygosity than expected by chance. Collectively, our results suggest that high immigration rates can maintain genetic variation at a regional scale despite simultaneous extirpations in spatially proximate populations. Thus, virulent diseases may increase genetic diversity of host populations by creating vacant habitats that allow an influx of genetic diversity. Furthermore, even highly virulent diseases may not eliminate individuals randomly; rather, they may selectively remove the most inbred individuals.
Differential effects of CXCR4‐CXCL12‐ and CXCR7‐CXCL12‐mediated immune reactions on murine P0106–125‐induced experimental autoimmune neuritis
Authors: Brunn A. , Utermöhlen O. , Mihelcic M. , Sánchez‐Ruiz M. , Carstov M. , Blau T. , Ustinova I. , Penfold M. , Montesinos‐Rongen M. , Deckert M.
Published: March 2013

Aim

The role of chemokines and their receptors, which regulate trafficking and homing of leucocytes to inflamed organs in human or murine autoimmune neuritis, has not yet been elucidated in detail, Therefore, the role of the chemokine receptors CXCR4 and CXCR7 and their ligand CXCL12 was studied in autoimmune‐mediated inflammation of the peripheral nervous system.

Methods

CXCL12/CXCR4 and/or CXCL12/CXCR7 interactions were specifically inhibited by the compounds AMD3100 or CCX771, respectively, in experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) of C57BL/6J mice immunized with P0106–125 peptide.

Results

Disease activity was significantly suppressed by blocking CXCR7 while antagonization of CXCR4 enhanced disease activity. Enhanced disease activity was accompanied by significantly increased transcription of IFN‐γ, IL‐12 and TNF‐α mRNA in regional lymph nodes and spleen as well as by increased serum levels of IFN‐γ. Furthermore, by blocking CXCR4, expression of the cell adhesion molecules ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 was upregulated on vascular endothelial cells of the sciatic nerve, which coincided with significantly increased infiltration of the sciatic nerve by CD4+ T cells and macrophages. Remarkably, combined antagonization of both CXCR4 and CXCR7 significantly suppressed disease activity. This was accompanied by increased frequencies of activated and highly IFN‐γ‐expressing, P0106–125‐specific T cells in regional lymph nodes and spleen; however, these cells were unable to infiltrate the sciatic nerve.

Conclusion

These data suggest differential and hierarchically ordered roles for CXCR4/CXCL12‐ vs. CXCR7/CXCL12‐dependent effects during EAN: CXCR7/CXCL12 interaction is a gatekeeper for pathogenic cells, regardless of their CXCR4/CXCL12‐dependent state of activation.
Overexpression of autophagic proteins in the skeletal muscle of sporadic inclusion body myositis
Authors: Girolamo F. , Lia A. , Amati A. , Strippoli M. , Coppola C. , Virgintino D. , Roncali L. , Toscano A. , Serlenga L. , Trojano M.
Published: March 2013

Aims

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (s‐IBM) is characterized by rimmed vacuole formation and misfolded protein accumulation. Intracellular protein aggregates are cleared by autophagy. When autophagy is blocked aggregates accumulate, resulting in abnormal rimmed vacuole formation. This study investigated the autophagy–lysosome pathway contribution to rimmed vacuole accumulation.

Methods

Autophagy was studied in muscle biopsy specimens obtained from eleven s‐IBM patients, one suspected hereditary IBM patient, nine patients with other inflammatory myopathies and nine non‐myopathic patients as controls. The analysis employed morphometric methods applied to immunohistochemistry using the endosome marker Clathrin, essential proteins of the autophagic cascade such as AuTophaGy‐related protein ATG5, splicing variants of microtubule‐associated protein light chain 3a (LC3a) and LC3b, compared with Beclin 1, the major autophagy regulator of both the initiation phase and late endosome/lysosome fusion of the autophagy–lysosome pathway.

Results

In muscle biopsies of s‐IBM patients, an increased expression of Clathrin, ATG5, LC3a, LC3b and Beclin 1 was shown. Moreover, the inflammatory components of the disease, essentially lymphocytes, were preferentially distributed around the Beclin 1+ myofibres. These affected myofibres also showed a moderate sarcoplasmic accumulation of SMI‐31+ phospho‐tau paired helical filaments.

Conclusion

The overexpression of autophagy markers linked to the decreased clearance of misfolded proteins, including SMI‐31, and rimmed vacuoles accumulation may exhaust cellular resources and lead to cell death.
Calculation of power and field of view of keratoprostheses
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Szentmáry Nóra , Speck Alexis , Seitz Berthold , Eppig Timo
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To demonstrate a mathematical algorithm for calculating the refractive power of keratoprostheses and to estimate vignetting effects.

Methods

A paraxial calculation scheme based on vergence transformation is developed for determination of the front surface radius or front surface refractive power of a Boston type I or II keratoprosthesis based on the design data of the manufacturer. A concept for derivation of lateral magnification (ratio of image size to slope of the incident ray) is presented based on 2 × 2 matrix representation of the eye. For estimation of vignetting effects, numerical ray tracing was used and the maximum half field angle and half luminance half field angle was extracted.

Results

Simulation calculations were performed in MATLAB. The front surface radius or refractive power is given in explicit form as a function of axial length, target refraction, as well as the principal design data of the keratoprosthesis such as posterior refractive power, length, or refractive index. With variation of the back surface radius it was shown that lateral magnification can be modulated e.g. to match the magnification of the fellow eye. The Boston type I does not restrict the field angle substantially, whereas type II shows significant vignetting effects.

Conclusion

We present a strategy on the calculation of keratoprostheses and variation of the design (e.g. back surface curvature) to help to avoid aniseikonia in case of binocular vision (e.g. one phakic eye and one with keratoprosthesis).
The Changing Face of Distribution Channels: Partial Forward Integration and Strategic Investments
Authors: Arya Anil , Mittendorf Brian
Published: March 2013

Recent years have seen a drastic transformation in the organization of wholesale and retail markets. Where once clear distinctions between wholesale suppliers and retail competitors existed, now an era of blurring boundaries has emerged. This transformation has been marked by the introduction of online channels for suppliers to provide products directly to consumers while, at the same time, traditional retailers too persist. Thus, retailers are both wholesale customers and retail competitors of many manufacturers. The consequences of the rapid emergence of instances of such partial forward integration by suppliers are not yet fully known. To this end, we study how partial forward integration can affect competing firms' strategic investments. We find that integration shifts the environment from being one in which firms invest to undercut retail rivals to one in which firms invest more in boosting demand, even that of their competitors. A case in point is the tendency for a manufacturer to invest broadly in brand promotion (benefiting both itself and its retail competitor), rather than heavy promotion of its own sales channel. The shift in the nature of strategic investments arising from partial forward integration implies that such integration can benefit firms and consumers alike, even the firm which finds itself reliant on a competitor for supplies.
Reduction in vasovagal reaction rate in young first‐time blood donors by collecting 350 mL rather than 450 mL
Authors: Wong H.K. , Lee C.K. , Leung J.N. , Lee I.Y. , Lin C.K.
Published: March 2013

Background

There is a paucity of studies on the magnitude of reduction of vasovagal reaction by reduced collection volume. This study was thus conducted to determine the difference in reaction rates between two collection volumes among the young first‐time donors who are at particular risk of reaction.

Study Design and Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 38,436 whole blood donations made by young (aged 16 to 18 years) first‐time donors. The effect of collection volume on vasovagal reaction was compared among different weight subgroups for both sexes by chi‐square test.

Results

For females in all weight subgroups and two of the male lower‐weight subgroups, the reduction percentages ranged from 35% to 58% (p < 0.05). It was also noted that, among the females, a higher weight was associated with a higher percent reduction in the reaction rate.

Conclusion

With reduced collection volume, this study detected large and significant reduction in reaction rates among all females, as well as lower‐weight males.
Role of donor and recipient sex in platelet transfusion
Authors: Stern Martin , Infanti Laura , O'Meara Alix , Sigle Jörg , Buser Andreas
Published: March 2013

Background

H‐Y proteins are ubiquitously expressed Y chromosome‐encoded minor histocompatibility antigens, which are relevant in the transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCT) and solid organs. No studies have so far analyzed whether H‐Y incompatibility influences the outcome of platelet (PLT) transfusion.

Study Design and Methods

We studied the effect of donor and recipient sex on outcome of 9038 single‐donor PLT transfusions.

Results

Using standard corrected count increment or percent PLT recovery (PPR) calculations, male patients showed inferior recovery rates, irrespective of donor sex. Using an adjusted PPR, which takes into account differences in blood volume between males and females, neither donor nor recipient sex played any role in PLT recovery after transfusion. Similarly, the time to next PLT transfusion was unaffected by both donor and recipient sex. In a subgroup analysis of patients with graft‐versus‐host disease after allogeneic HSCT, male recipients of a female allograft—which may carry anti‐H‐Y T cells and antibodies—had significantly lower time to next PLT transfusion. However, this occurred after both male donor and female donor PLT transfusions, arguing against an involvement of alloreactivity against H‐Y antigens on PLTs.

Conclusion

This large analysis found no evidence that donor‐recipient sex matching influences the outcome of PLT transfusion.
Use of human embryonic stem cells and umbilical cord blood stem cells for research and therapy: a prospective survey among health care professionals and patients in Switzerland
Authors: Wagner Anna Margaretha , Krenger Werner , Holzgreve Wolfgang , Bürkli Peter , Surbek Daniel V.
Published: March 2013

Background

Scientific progress in the biology of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) provides opportunities for advances in therapy for different diseases. While stem cell sources such as umbilical cord blood (UCB) are unproblematic, other sources such as human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) raise ethical concerns.

Study Design and Methods

In a prospective survey we established the ethical acceptability of collection, research, and therapy with UCB HSCs versus hESCs among health care professionals, pregnant women, patients undergoing in vitro fertilization therapy, parents, and HSC donors and recipients in Switzerland.

Results

There was overall agreement about an ethical justification for the collection of UCB for research and therapy in the majority of participants (82%). In contrast, research and therapy with hESCs was acceptable only by a minority (38% of all responders). The collection of hESCs solely created for HSC collection purposes met overall with the lowest approval rates. Hematologists displayed among the participants the highest acceptance rates for the use of hESCs with 55% for collection, 63% for research, and 73% for therapy.

Conclusions

This is the first study assessing the perception of hESCs for research and therapy in comparison with UCB HSCs in different target groups that are exposed directly, indirectly, or not at all to stem cell–based medicine. Our study shows that the debate over the legitimacy of embryo‐destructive transplantation medicine is far from over as particularly hESC research continues to present an ethical problem to an overwhelming majority among laypersons and even among health care professionals.
Prolonged ceftriaxone‐induced immune thrombocytopenia due to impaired drug clearance: a case report
Authors: Jacquot Cyril , Moayeri Morvarid , Kim Benjamin , Shugarts Sarah , Lynch Kara L. , Leavitt Andrew D.
Published: March 2013

Background

Antibody‐mediated drug‐induced thrombocytopenia (DIT) typically requires the presence of the sensitizing drug in the plasma. Therefore, platelet (PLT) counts often start to recover 1 to 2 days after discontinuation of the offending medication. We present a case of ceftriaxone‐induced DIT that resulted in severe, prolonged thrombocytopenia.

Case Report

A 65‐year‐old woman with liver and renal insufficiency was transferred to our hospital for liver transplant evaluation. Two days after a 5‐day course of ceftriaxone, her PLT count declined from a stable baseline of approximately 70 × 109/L to a value of 3 × 109/L, with coincident onset of mucocutaneous purpura. Her PLT count remained in the 1 × 109 to 6 × 109/L range until her death 13 days later, despite intravenous immune globulin, steroids, and PLT transfusions. The persistently low PLT count impeded central catheter placement for hemodialysis and possible therapeutic plasmapheresis. A strong ceftriaxone‐dependent, PLT‐reactive antibody was identified in a sample drawn 7 days after ceftriaxone was last administered, and ceftriaxone remained detectable in her serum for at least 8 days after the last dose.

Conclusion

A ceftriaxone‐dependent, PLT‐reactive antibody was responsible for the persistent thrombocytopenia in this patient. Although DIT is generally expected to improve within a few days of drug discontinuation, impaired drug clearance can significantly alter the outcome. This case highlights the importance of altered drug metabolism and clearance in critically ill patients, especially those with combined hepatic and renal dysfunction. DIT should be strongly suspected in patients with acute thrombocytopenia, and all treatment options to reduce serum drug levels should be seriously considered.
Offshore anchor piles under mooring forces: centrifuge modeling
Authors: Ramadan Mohamed I. , Butt Stephen D. , Popescu R.
Published: March 2013

Offshore anchor piles are seafloor moorings that keep the position of floating structures during a harsh environment. These piles are usually subjected to a wide range of monotonic and cyclic lateral-to-oblique pullout forces. Centrifuge tests were carried out to study the behavior of offshore anchor piles under mooring forces in saturated dense sand. The tests were carried out at different loading angles. All piles were jacked into the sand bed in-flight. The pile models were instrumented with strain gauges. Bending moment, soil pressure, and pile lateral deflection profiles are presented and discussed. It was found that there is a significant interaction between both tension and lateral loading. This interaction should be considered in the design of offshore anchor piles.
Comparative leaf development of aerial and aquatic growth forms of Myriophyllum aquaticum
Authors: Shafiullah M.D. , Lacroix Christian R.
Published: March 2013

Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdc. produces two morphologically different forms of leaves based on whether they are aerial or aquatic. The objective of this study was to determine whether there are any similarities or differences between these two growth forms during their early stages of development. A comparative developmental study of aerial and aquatic growth forms of M. aquaticum was conducted from a qualitative and quantitative perspective using a scanning electron microscope. The pattern of leaf and lobe initiation such as their origin and shape were similar in both growth forms until the fourth plastochron (stage P4). Differences between the two growth forms became evident from stage P5 onward, where a larger shoot apical meristem (SAM), elongated epidermal cells, shorter and slightly more numerous lobes, as well as the presence of appendage-like structures characterized aquatic growth forms. On the other hand, aerial growth forms had smaller SAM, bulb-like epidermal cells, and longer and slightly less numerous leaf lobes. Significant differences between growth forms were noted for parameters such as volume of SAM, length of terminal, first, and middle lobes, as well as the length from first to last lobes. The volume of the SAM of aquatic shoot tips was always greater than aerial forms. On the other hand, lobes of aerial forms were always longer than the aquatic counterpart during early stages of development. This study on the development of M. aquaticum shows that the aerial and aquatic growth forms diverge from their early stages of development.
Characterization of stipular colleters of Alseis pickelii
Authors: Tullii Cristiane F. , Miguel Emilio C. , Lima Nathália B. , Fernandes Kátia V.S. , Gomes Valdirene M. , Da Cunha Maura
Published: March 2013

Colleters are secretory structures of taxonomic relevance that are characterized by the production of a mucilaginous substance in the shoot apices and the development of organs that act against dehydration, herbivores, and pathogens. However, no studies have investigated the senescence and programmed cell death processes of colleters. The goal of this study was to describe the structure of Alseis pickelii Pilger et Shmale (Cinchonoideae) colleters and to characterize the process of senescence. Colleters in the early development stage have a smooth surface and turgid epidermal cells with dense cytoplasm. Subsequently, the epidermal cells exhibit one of the first signs of cell death described for colleters, cytoplasm retraction. Colleters at the intermediate stage show a wrinkled surface as a consequence of their secretory process. During the secretory phase, colleter cells show a hypertrophic endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, suggesting high synthesis activity. Senescent colleters have a widened aspect, have disorganized epidermal cells, and are collapsed, making it difficult to see their structure. Histochemical tests showed the same reaction with Schiff's and Ruthenium Red reagents for all three stages, indicating the mucilaginous character of the secretion. Lipids and proteins were also observed throughout colleter development. DNA fragmentation, a typical symptom of cells undergoing processes of programmed cell death, was observed by TUNEL and quantified by a Cell Death Detection ELISA assay.
Investigation of the molecular mechanisms of electronic decoherence within a quinone cofactor
Authors: Narth Christophe , Gillet Natacha , Lévy Bernard , Demachy Isabelle , de la Lande Aurélien
Published: March 2013

The notion of decoherence is particularly adapted to discuss the quantum-to-classical transition in the context of chemical reactions. Decoherence can be modeled by computing the time evolution of nuclear wave packets evolving on distinct potential energy surfaces, here using density functional theory (DFT) and Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulations. We investigate a redox cofactor of biological interest (tryptophan tryptophylquinone, TTQ) found in the enzyme methylamine dehydrogenase. We also report the first systematic comparison of semi-empirical DFT (tight-binding DFT) and classical force field approaches for estimating decoherence in molecular systems. In the TTQ cofactor, we find that decoherence combines structural and dynamical aspects: it is initiated by the divergent motions of few atoms and then propagates dynamically to the remaining atoms. It is the mass effect of all the atoms that leads to decoherence within a few femtosecond.
Altered expression of genes for Kir ion channels in dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Szuts Viktoria , Ménesi Dalma , Varga-Orvos Zoltán , Zvara Ágnes , Houshmand Nazanin , Bitay Miklós , Bogáts Gábor , Virág László , Baczkó István , Szalontai Balázs , Geramipoor Amir , Cotella Diego , Wettwer Erich , Ravens Ursula , Deák Ferenc , Puskás László G. , Papp Julius Gy. , Kiss Ibolya , Varró András , Jost Norbert
Published: March 2013

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a multifactorial disease characterized by left ventricular dilation that is associated with systolic dysfunction and increased action potential duration. The Kir2.x K+channels (encoded by KCNJ genes) regulate the inward rectifier current (IK1) contributing to the final repolarization in cardiac muscle. Here, we describe the transitions in the gene expression profiles of 4 KCNJ genes from healthy or dilated cardiomyopathic human hearts. In the healthy adult ventricles, KCNJ2, KCNJ12, and KCNJ4 (Kir2.1–2.3, respectively) genes were expressed at high levels, while expression of the KCNJ14 (Kir2.4) gene was low. In DCM ventricles, the levels of Kir2.1 and Kir2.3 were upregulated, but those of Kir2.2 channels were downregulated. Additionally, the expression of the DLG1 gene coding for the synapse-associated protein 97 (SAP97) anchoring molecule exhibited a 2-fold decline with increasing age in normal hearts, and it was robustly downregulated in young DCM patients. These adaptations could offer a new aspect for the explanation of the generally observed physiological and molecular alterations found in DCM.
THE EFFECT OF ETCHING TIME ON RECTIFYING CHARACTERISTIC IN SnO2/p-Si AND SnO2/p-PoSi HETEROJUNCTION SCHOTTKY DIODES
Authors: BIARAM ALIREZA , ESHGHI HOSEIN
Published: March 2013

We have fabricated SnO 2/p- Si and SnO 2/p- PoSi heterojunction diodes by spray pyrolysis method. To prepare porous Si substrates, the etching time was varied from 10 to 20 and 30 mins. In these samples, the SEM micrographs showed a distributed pore areas surrounded by columnar walls with various height. The data analysis of the rectified I–V characteristic, using thermionic emission Schottky diode theory, showed that although the barrier height is about 0.5–0.6 eV in all samples other two important diode parameters, i.e. the ideality factor n and the series resistance rs, are strongly etching time-dependant and are increased with increasing the etching time.
METHOD OF TUNING FREQUENCY OF THE DEFECT MODE IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL SQUARE PHOTONIC CRYSTALS
Authors: YAN SHUYA , WU FUGEN , ZHANG XIN , YAO YUANWEI , ZHONG HUILIN , HE YUN , CHENG CONG
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we investigate the defect modes created by taking a single rod away from the center of the supercell in two-dimensional photonic crystals. Through theoretical calculation, we find that the defect band can exist in the photonic band gaps, and the position of the defect band frequency intensively depends on the position and radius size of the defect rod. When the radius of the defect rod is bigger than that of the normal rods, the frequency of the defect band can be tunable in a wider range by moving the defect position while the doubly degenerate defect modes may split into two nondegenerate defect modes. The investigation provides a theoretical instruction to design the optical resonator with tunable frequency.
IMPROVING NETWORK TRANSPORT EFFICIENCY BY EDGE REWIRING
Authors: JIANG ZHONG-YUAN , LIANG MAN-GUI , GUO DONG-CHAO
Published: March 2013

Considering the heterogeneous structure of scale-free networks causing low traffic capacity of network, we propose to improve the network transport efficiency by rewiring a fraction of edges for the network. In this paper, six edge rewiring strategies are discussed and extensive simulations on Barabási–Albert (BA) scale-free networks confirm the effectiveness of these strategies. From another perspective, rewiring edges for scale-free networks directly reuse the removed edges under some edge-removal strategies [Z. Liu, M. B. Hu, R. Jiang, W. X. Wang and Q. S. Wu, Phys. Rev. E76 (2007) 037101; G. Q. Zhang, D. Wang and G. J. Li, Phys. Rev. E76 (2007) 017101], and can significantly enhance the traffic capacity of the network at the expense of increasing a little average path length. After the edge rewiring process, the network structure becomes significantly homogeneous. This work is helpful for network design and network performance optimization.
FLUTTER SUPPRESSION OF AN ELASTICALLY SUPPORTED PLATE WITH ELECTRO-RHEOLOGICAL FLUID CORE UNDER YAWED SUPERSONIC FLOWS
Authors: HASHEMINEJAD SEYYED M. , NEZAMI M. , PANAH M. E. ARYAEE
Published: March 2013

This paper investigates the active control of the supersonic flutter motion of an elastically supported rectangular sandwich plate, which has a tunable electrorheological (ER) fluid core and rests on a Winkler–Pasternak elastic foundation, subjected to an arbitrary flow of various yaw angles. The classical thin plate theory is adopted. The ER fluid core is modeled as a first order Kelvin–Voigt material, and the quasi-steady first order supersonic piston theory is employed for the aerodynamic loading. The generalized Fourier expansions in conjunction with Galerkin method are employed to formulate the governing equations in the state-space domain. The critical dynamic pressures at which unstable panel oscillations occur are obtained for a square sandwich plate, with or without an interacting soft/stiff elastic foundation, for selected applied electric field strengths and flow yaw angles. The Runge–Kutta method is then used to calculate the open-loop aeroelastic response of the system in various basic loading configurations. Subsequently, a sliding mode control (SMC) synthesis is set up to actively suppress the closed loop system response in yawed supersonic flight conditions with imposed excitations. The results demonstrate the performance, effectiveness, and insensitivity with respect to the spillover of the proposed SMC-based control system.
APPLICATION OF AN EVOLUTIONARY ACTOR–CRITIC REINFORCEMENT LEARNING METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF A THREE-LINK MUSCULOSKELETAL ARM DURING A REACHING MOVEMENT
Authors: TAHAMI EHSAN , JAFARI AMIR HOMAYOUN , FALLAH ALI
Published: March 2013

In this paper, the control of a planar three-link musculoskeletal arm by using a revolutionary actor–critic reinforcement learning (RL) method during a reaching movement to a stationary target is presented. The arm model used in this study included three skeletal links (wrist, forearm, and upper arm), three joints (wrist, elbow, and shoulder without redundancy), and six non-linear monoarticular muscles (with redundancy), which were based on the Hill model. The learning control system was composed of actor, critic, and genetic algorithm (GA) parts. Two single-layer neural networks were used for each part of the actor and critic. This learning control system was used to apply six activation commands to six monoarticular muscles at each instant of time. It also used a reinforcement (reward) feedback for the learning process and controlling the direction of arm movement. Also, the GA was implemented to select the best learning rates for actor–critic neural networks. The results showed that mean square error (MSE) and average episode time gradually decrease and average reward gradually increases to constant values during the learning of the control policy. Furthermore, when learning was complete, optimal values of learning rates were selected.
UNIVERSAL CURVATURE IDENTITIES III
Authors: GILKEY P. , PARK J. H. , SEKIGAWA K.
Published: March 2013

We examine universal curvature identities for pseudo-Riemannian manifolds with boundary. We determine the Euler–Lagrange equations associated to the Chern–Gauss–Bonnet formula and show that they are given solely in terms of curvature and the second fundamental form and do not involve covariant derivatives, thus generalizing a conjecture of Berger to this context.
EXTREME VALUES OF L-FUNCTIONS FROM THE SELBERG CLASS
Authors: PAŃKOWSKI ŁUKASZ , STEUDING JÖRN
Published: March 2013

We prove estimates for extreme values of L-functions from the Selberg class under assumption of the corresponding analogue of the Riemann hypothesis. The method of proof combines Montgomery's approach with an effective version of Kronecker's diophantine approximation theorem due to Weber.
THE REPRESENTATION NUMBERS OF CERTAIN OCTONARY QUADRATIC FORMS
Authors: KÖKLÜCE BÜLENT
Published: March 2013

In this study we derive formulae for the number of representations of n by the octonary quadratic forms [Formula: see text] for any n ∈ ℕ0.
LANG'S CONJECTURE AND SHARP HEIGHT ESTIMATES FOR THE ELLIPTIC CURVES y2 = x3 + ax
Authors: VOUTIER PAUL , YABUTA MINORU
Published: March 2013

For elliptic curves given by the equation Ea : y2 = x3 + ax, we establish the best-possible version of Lang's conjecture on the lower bound for the canonical height of non-torsion rational points along with best-possible upper and lower bounds for the difference between the canonical and logarithmic height.
ON THE LARGEST DEGREE OF THE PARTIAL QUOTIENTS IN CONTINUED FRACTION EXPANSIONS OVER THE FIELD OF FORMAL LAURENT SERIES
Authors: SHEN LUMING , XU JIAN , JING HUIPING
Published: March 2013

For x ∈ I, let [A1(x), A2(x), …] be the continued fraction expansions over the field of Laurent series, write Ln(x) ≔ max { deg A1(x), deg A2(x), …, deg An(x)}, which is called the largest degree of partial quotients. In this paper, we give an iterated logarithm type theorem for Ln(x), and by which, we get that for P-almost all x ∈ I, [Formula: see text]. Also the Hausdorff dimensions of the related exceptional sets are determined.
GENUS FIELDS OF CYCLIC l-EXTENSIONS OF RATIONAL FUNCTION FIELDS
Authors: BAUTISTA-ANCONA VÍCTOR , RZEDOWSKI-CALDERÓN MARTHA , VILLA-SALVADOR GABRIEL
Published: March 2013

We give a construction of genus fields for Kummer cyclic l-extensions of rational congruence function fields, l a prime number. First we find this genus field for a field contained in a cyclotomic function field using Leopoldt's construction by means of Dirichlet characters and the Hilbert class field defined by Rosen. The general case follows from this. This generalizes the result obtained by Peng for a cyclic extension of degree l.