bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Assessment of Mandibular Growth Based on Image Registration: A Feasibility Study in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Kim I. , Oliveira M. E. , Duncan W. J. , Cioffi I. , Farella M.
Published: January 2014

Background.Our knowledge of mandibular growth mostly derives from cephalometric radiography, which has inherent limitations due to the two-dimensional (2D) nature of measurement.Objective.To assess 3D morphological changes occurring during growth in a rabbit mandible.Methods.Serial cone-beam computerised tomographic (CBCT) images were made of two New Zealand white rabbits, at baseline and eight weeks after surgical implantation of 1 mm diameter metallic spheres as fiducial markers. A third animal acted as an unoperated (no implant) control. CBCT images were segmented and registered in 3D (Implant Superimposition and Procrustes Method), and the remodelling pattern described used color maps. Registration accuracy was quantified by the maximal of the mean minimum distances and by the Hausdorff distance.Results.The mean error for image registration was 0.37 mm and never exceeded 1 mm. The implant-based superimposition showed most remodelling occurred at the mandibular ramus, with bone apposition posteriorly and vertical growth at the condyle.Conclusion.We propose a method to quantitatively describe bone remodelling in three dimensions, based on the use of bone implants as fiducial markers and CBCT as imaging modality. The method is feasible and represents a promising approach for experimental studies by comparing baseline growth patterns and testing the effects of growth-modification treatments.
Natural Selection Determines Synonymous Codon Usage Patterns of Neuraminidase (NA) Gene of the Different Subtypes of Influenza A Virus in Canada
Authors: Chen Youhua
Published: January 2014

Synonymous codon usage patterns of neuraminidase (NA) gene of 64 subtypes (one is a mixed subtype) of influenza A virus found in Canada were analyzed. In total, 1422 NA sequences were analyzed. Among the subtypes, H1N1 is the prevailing one with 516 NCBI accession records, followed by H3N2, H3N8, and H4N6. The year of 2009 has the highest report records for the NA sequences in Canada, corresponding to the 2009 pandemic event. Correspondence analysis on the RSCU values of the four major subtypes showed that they had distinct clustering patterns in the two-dimensional scatter plot, indicating that different subtypes of IAV utilized different preferential codons. This subtype clustering pattern implied the important influence of natural selection, which could be further evidenced by an extremely flattened regression line in the neutrality plot (GC12 versus G3s plot) and a significant phylogenetic signal on the distribution of different subtypes in the clades of the phylogenetic tree (λ statistic). In conclusion, different subtypes of IAV showed an evolutionary differentiation on choosing different optimal codons. Natural selection played a deterministic role to structure IAV codon usage patterns in Canada.
A Study of Classics‐Reading Curriculum, Classics‐Reading Promotion, and Classics‐Reading Effect Modeling Exploration in Elementary Schools
Authors: Tang Chuen-An , Chen Kuang-Ming , Chang Li-Chuan , Lin Deng-Shun
Published: January 2014

The purposes of this study are to test reliabilities and validities of classics‐reading curriculum (CRC) scale, classics‐reading promotion (CRP) scale, and classics‐reading effect (CRE) scale and to examine the relationships between CRC, CRP, and CRE in elementary schools through applying CORPS framework. The pilot sample and formal sample contain 141 and 500 participants from elementary school faculties and classics‐reading volunteers in the north, central, south, and east regions of Taiwan. The findings indicate that Cronbach α coefficients of curriculum cognition (CC), curriculum teaching (CT), inside‐school promotion (IP), outside‐school promotion (EP), learning effect (LE), and class management effect (CME) subscales are .88.85.93.91.91.94, respectively, through exploratory factor analysis and they have good internal reliabilities and construct validities, respectively, through confirmatory factor analysis. Moreover, CC, CT, IP, and EP have positive influences on LE (standardized coefficients .34.25.14, and .22) and on CME (standardized coefficients .41.14.14, and .20), respectively. CC, CT, IP, and EP can explain 69% of LE and 61% of CME. The model is supported by the data. Lastly, this study proposes some suggestions regarding the classics‐reading education for elementary schools.
A New Method for Fabrication of Nanohydroxyapatite and TCP from the Sea Snail Cerithium vulgatum
Authors: Gunduz O. , Sahin Y. M. , Agathopoulos S. , Ben-Nissan B. , Oktar F. N.
Published: January 2014

Biphasic bioceramic nanopowders of hydroxyapatite (HA) and β‐tricalcium phosphate (TCP) were prepared from shells of the sea snail Cerithium vulgatum (Bruguière, 1792) using a novel chemical method. Calcination of the powders produced was carried out at varying temperatures, specifically at 400°C and 800°C, in air for 4 hours. When compared to the conventional hydrothermal transformation method, this chemical method is very simple, economic, due to the fact that it needs inexpensive and safe equipment, because the transformation of the aragonite and calcite of the shells into the calcium phosphate phases takes place at 80°C under the atmospheric pressure. The powders produced were determined using infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The features of the powders produced along with the fact of their biological origin qualify these powders for further consideration and experimentation to fabricate nanoceramic biomaterials.
Potential of NMR Spectroscopy in the Characterization of Nonconventional Oils
Authors: Majid Abdul , Pihillagawa Indu
Published: January 2014

NMR spectroscopy was applied for the characterization of two biomass based pyrolysis oil samples. The samples were extracted in various solvents and the extracts were investigated by both 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Subsequent evaluation of the integrated analytical data revealed chemical information regarding semiquantitative estimation of various functional groups. This information could not have been obtained readily from the individual spectroscopic techniques. Semiquantitative estimation of the various functional groups allowed a comparison of the extraction efficiency of these groups in various solvents. The method is based on the premise that although the number of individual molecular species in pyrolysis oil liquid is large, most of these species are composed of a limited number of functional groups. The methodology provided information on the concentration of chemical functionalities that are potentially useful for synthetic modifications and may help to guide the use of pyrolysis oil as a chemical feedstock. The approach described is expected to be generally applicable to complex mixture of hydrocarbon oils such as bio-oils, oil sands bitumen, and coal pyrolysis oils.
Application of Successive Linearisation Method to Squeezing Flow with Bifurcation
Authors: Motsa S. S. , Makinde O. D. , Shateyi S.
Published: January 2014

This paper employs the computational approach known as successive linearization method (SLM) to tackle a fourth order nonlinear differential equation modelling the transient flow of an incompressible viscous fluid between two parallel plates produced by a simple wall motion. Numerical and graphical results obtained show excellent agreement with the earlier results reported in the literature. We obtain solution branches as well as a turning point in the flow field accurately. A comparison with numerical results generated using the inbuilt MATLAB boundary value solver,bvp4c, demonstrates that the SLM approach is a very efficient technique for tackling highly nonlinear differential equations of the type discussed in this paper.
Deltopectoral Flap in the Era of Microsurgery
Authors: Chan R. C. L. , Chan J. Y. W.
Published: January 2014

Background. Our study aimed to review the role of deltopectoral (DP) flap as a reconstructive option for defects in the head and neck region in the microvascular era.Methods. All patients who received DP flap reconstruction surgery at the Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, between 1999 and 2011 were recruited. Demographic data, indications for surgery, defect for reconstruction, and surgical outcomes were analyzed.Results. Fifty-four patients were included. All but two patients were operated for reconstruction after tumour resection. The remaining two patients were operated for necrotizing fasciitis and osteoradionecrosis. The majority of DP flaps were used to cover neck skin defect (63.0%). Other reconstructed defects included posterior pharyngeal wall (22.2%), facial skin defect (11.1%), and tracheal wall (3.7%). All donor sites were covered with partial thickness skin graft. Two patients developed partial flap necrosis at the tip and were managed conservatively. The overall flap survival rate was 96.3%.Conclusions. Albeit the technical advancements in microvascular surgery, DP still possesses multiple advantages (technical simplicity, reliable axial blood supply, large size, thinness, and pliability) which allows it to remain as a useful, reliable, and versatile surgical option for head and neck reconstruction.
The Phenomenology of Delirium: Presence, Severity, and Relationship between Symptoms
Authors: Boettger Soenke , Boettger Susanne , Breitbart William
Published: January 2014

Objective. To examine the phenomenological characteristics of delirium based on the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS) in order to explore the presence, severity of, and relationship between symptoms. Methods. An analysis of 100 cases of delirium recruited at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) was performed. Sociodemographic and medical variables, the Memorial Delirium Assessment Scale (MDAS) subitems, and Karnofsky Performance Status scale (KPS) were analyzed of respect of the phenomenological characteristics and their interrelationship. Results. The most severe and frequent symptoms were recorded in the cognitive domain, psychomotor behavior, sleep-wake cycle, and disturbance of consciousness. Within the cognitive domain, concentration was the most severely affected task. The severity of impairment in most domains increased with delirium severity, whereas perceptual disturbances and delusions were independent of delirium severity. Advanced age and the prevalence of dementia increased with delirium severity in contrast to the functional status which declined. The presence of perceptual disturbances and delusions was independent of cognitive impairment and psychomotor abnormality, however, associated with the disturbances of consciousness and attention. Conclusion. Cognition, in particular concentration, was the most severely affected domain. Advanced age and the prevalence of dementia contributed to more severe delirium. Perceptual disturbances and delusions were independent of delirium severity; however, they were associated with disturbances of consciousness and attention.
A Theoretical Study of the Relationships between Electronic Structure and CB1 and CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor Binding Affinity in a Group of 1-Aryl-5-(1-H-pyrrol-1-yl)-1-H-pyrazole-3-carboxamides
Authors: Salgado-Valdés Francisco , Gómez-Jeria Juan S.
Published: January 2014

We report the results of a search for model-based relationships between hCB1 and hCB2 receptor binding affinity and molecular structure for a group of 1-aryl-5-(1-H-pyrrol-1-yl)-1-H-pyrazole-3-carboxamides. The wave functions and local atomic reactivity indices were obtained at the B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) levels of theory with full geometry optimization. Interaction pharmacophores were generated for both receptors. The main conclusions of this work are as follows. (1) We obtained statistically significant equations relating the variation of hCB1 and hCB2 receptor binding affinities with the variation of definite sets of local atomic reactivity indices. (2) The interaction of the molecules with the hCB1 and hCB2 receptors seems to be highly complex and mainly orbital controlled. (3) The interaction mechanisms seem to be different for each type of receptor. This study, contrarily to the statistically backed ones, is able to provide a microscopic insight of the mechanisms involved in the binding process.
Rapidly Converging Series forζ(2n+1)from Fourier Series
Authors: Choi Junesang
Published: January 2014

Ever since Euler first evaluatedζ(2)andζ(2m), numerous interesting solutions of the problem of evaluating theζ(2m)  (m∈ℕ)have appeared in the mathematical literature. Until now no simple formula analogous to the evaluation ofζ(2m)  (m∈ℕ)is known forζ(2m+1)  (m∈ℕ)or even for any special case such asζ(3). Instead, various rapidly converging series forζ(2m+1)have been developed by many authors. Here, using Fourier series, we aim mainly at presenting a recurrence formula for rapidly converging series forζ(2m+1). In addition, using Fourier series and recalling some indefinite integral formulas, we also give recurrence formulas for evaluations ofβ(2m+1)andζ(2m)  (m∈ℕ), which have been treated in earlier works.
Memetic Algorithm with Local Search as Modified Swine Influenza Model-Based Optimization and Its Use in ECG Filtering
Authors: Jadhav Devidas G. , Pattnaik Shyam S. , Das Sanjoy
Published: January 2014

The Swine Influenza Model Based Optimization (SIMBO) family is a newly introduced speedy optimization technique having the adaptive features in its mechanism. In this paper, the authors modified the SIMBO to make the algorithm further quicker. As the SIMBO family is faster, it is a better option for searching the basin. Thus, it is utilized in local searches in developing the proposed memetic algorithms (MAs). The MA has a faster speed compared to SIMBO with the balance in exploration and exploitation. So, MAs have small tradeoffs in convergence velocity for comprehensively optimizing the numerical standard benchmark test bed having functions with different properties. The utilization of SIMBO in the local searching is inherently the exploitation of better characteristics of the algorithms employed for the hybridization. The developed MA is applied to eliminate the power line interference (PLI) from the biomedical signal ECG with the use of adaptive filter whose weights are optimized by the MA. The inference signal required for adaptive filter is obtained using the selective reconstruction of ECG from the intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) of empirical mode decomposition (EMD).
Energy Balance Routing Algorithm Based on Virtual MIMO Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Jianpo , Jiang Xue , Lu I-Tai
Published: January 2014

Wireless sensor networks are usually energy limited and therefore an energy-efficient routing algorithm is desired for prolonging the network lifetime. In this paper, we propose a new energy balance routing algorithm which has the following three improvements over the conventional LEACH algorithm. Firstly, we propose a new cluster head selection scheme by taking into consideration the remaining energy and the most recent energy consumption of the nodes and the entire network. In this way, the sensor nodes with smaller remaining energy or larger energy consumption will be much less likely to be chosen as cluster heads. Secondly, according to the ratio of remaining energy to distance, cooperative nodes are selected to form virtual MIMO structures. It mitigates the uneven distribution of clusters and the unbalanced energy consumption of the whole network. Thirdly, we construct a comprehensive energy consumption model, which can reflect more realistically the practical energy consumption. Numerical simulations analyze the influences of cooperative node numbers and cluster head node numbers on the network lifetime. It is shown that the energy consumption of the proposed routing algorithm is lower than the conventional LEACH algorithm and for the simulation example the network lifetime is prolonged about 25%.
Gust Mitigation of Micro Air Vehicles Using Passive Articulated Wings
Authors: Oduyela Adetunji , Slegers Nathan
Published: January 2014

Birds and insects naturally use passive flexing of their wings to augment their stability in uncertain aerodynamic environments. In a similar manner, micro air vehicle designers have been investigating using wing articulation to take advantage of this phenomenon. The result is a class of articulated micro air vehicles where artificial passive joints are designed into the lifting surfaces. In order to analyze how passive articulation affects performance of micro air vehicles in gusty environments, an efficient 8 degree-of-freedom model is developed. Experimental validation of the proposed mathematical model was accomplished using flight test data of an articulated micro air vehicle obtained from a high resolution indoor tracking facility. Analytical investigation of the gust alleviation properties of the articulated micro air vehicle model was carried out using simulations with varying crosswind gust magnitudes. Simulations show that passive articulation in micro air vehicles can increase their robustness to gusts within a range of joint compliance. It is also shown that if articulation joints are made too compliant that gust mitigation performance is degraded when compared to a rigid system.
Flux Density through Guides with Microstructured Twisted Clad DB Medium
Authors: Baqir M. A. , Choudhury P. K.
Published: January 2014

The paper deals with the study of flux density through a newly proposed twisted clad guide containing DB medium. The inner core and the outer clad sections are usual dielectrics, and the introduced twisted windings at the core‐clad interface are treated under DB boundary conditions. The pitch angle of twist is supposed to greatly contribute towards the control over the dispersion characteristics of the guide. The eigenvalue equation for the guiding structure is deduced, and the analytical investigations are made to explore the propagation patterns of flux densities corresponding to the sustained low‐order hybrid modes under the situation of varying pitch angles. The emphasis has been put on the effects due to the DB twisted pitch on the propagation of energy flux density through the guide.
Robust Adaptive Dynamic Surface Control for a Class of Nonlinear Dynamical Systems with Unknown Hysteresis
Authors: Liu Yong-Hua , Feng Ying , Chen Xinkai
Published: January 2014

The output tracking problem for a class of uncertain strict-feedback nonlinear systems with unknown Duhem hysteresis input is investigated. In order to handle the undesirable effects caused by unknown hysteresis, the properties in respect to Duhem model are used to decompose it as a nonlinear smooth term and a nonlinear bounded “disturbance-like” term, which makes it possible to deal with the unknown hysteresis without constructing inverse in the controller design. By combining robust control and dynamic surface control technique, an adaptive controller is proposed in this paper to avoid “the explosion complexity” in the standard backstepping design procedure. The negative effects caused by the unknown hysteresis can be mitigated effectively, and the semiglobal uniform ultimate boundedness of all the signals in the closed-loop system is obtained. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme is validated through a simulation example.
Convergence of Viscosity Iteration Process for a Finite Family of Generalized Asymptotically Quasi-Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Cheng Zhiming
Published: January 2014

We introduce a general iteration method for a finite family of generalized asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive mappings. The results presented in the paper extend and improve some recent results in the works by Shahzad and Udomene (2006); L. Qihou (2001); Khan et al. (2008).
Could Upregulated Hsp70 Protein Compensate for the Hsp90-Silence-Induced Cell Death in Glioma Cells?
Authors: Munje Chinmay , Shervington Leroy , Khan Zarine , Shervington Amal
Published: January 2014

The molecular chaperone heat shock protein 90 alpha (Hsp90α) has been recognized in various tumours including glioma. This pilot study using a proteomic approach analyses the downstream effects of Hsp90 inhibition using 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17AAG) and a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) oligonucleotide targetinghsp90α(shhsp90α) in the U87-MG glioma cell line. Preliminary data coupled with bioinformatic analysis identified several known and unknown Hsp90 client proteins that demonstrated a change in their protein expression after Hsp90 inhibition, signifying an alteration in the canonical pathways of cell cycle progression, apoptosis, cell invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Members of the glycolysis pathway were upregulated, demonstrating increased dependency on glycolysis for energy source by the treated glioma cells. Upregulated proteins also include Hsp70 and members of its family such as Hsp27 and gp96, thereby suggesting the role of Hsp90 co-chaperones in compensating for Hsp90 function after Hsp90 inhibition. Considering Hsp70’s role in antiapoptosis, it was postulated that a combination therapy involving a multitarget approach could be carried out. Consequently inhibition of both Hsp90 and Hsp70 in U87-MG glioma cells resulted in 60% cell death indicating the importance of combination therapy for glioma therapeutics.
Bilateral Psoas Haematomata Complicating Renal Transplantation
Authors: Akoh Jacob A. , Rana Tahawar A. , Higgs Daniel
Published: January 2014

Background. The challenge in managing patients undergoing renal transplantation is how to achieve optimum levels of anticoagulation to avoid both clotting and postoperative bleeding. We report a rare case of severe postoperative retroperitoneal bleeding including psoas haematomata complicating renal transplantation.Case Report. SM, a 55-year-old female, had a past history of aortic valve replacement, cerebrovascular event, and thoracic aortic aneurysm and was on long-term warfarin that was switched to enoxaparin 60 mg daily a week prior to her living donor transplantation. Postoperatively, she was started on a heparin infusion, but this was complicated by a large retroperitoneal bleed requiring surgical evacuation on the first postoperative day. Four weeks later, she developed features compatible with acute femoral neuropathy and a CT scan revealed bilateral psoas haematomata. Following conservative management, she made steady progress and was discharged home via a community hospital 94 days after transplantation. At her last visit 18 months after transplantation, she had returned to full fitness with excellent transplant function.Conclusion. Patients in established renal failure who require significant anticoagulation are at increased risk of bleeding that may involve prolonged hospitalisation and more protracted recovery and patients should be carefully counselled about this.
An Audit of Fibreoptic Intubation Training Opportunities in a UK Teaching Hospital
Authors: Wiles M. D. , McCahon R. A. , Armstrong J. A. M.
Published: January 2014

Airway management is the foundation upon which anaesthesia is built, and fibreoptic intubation (FOI) is a key facet of this skill. Despite this, many trainee anaesthetists in the UK have been unable to perform sufficient FOIs to gain competence. We aimed to establish the incidence of FOI in adult patients, in a UK teaching hospital, in order to determine what FOI training opportunities actually exist. During the study period (from October 1st, 2008, to September 30th, 2009) an estimated 11 712 general anaesthetics were undertaken that necessitated tracheal intubation. In 141 of these cases FOIs were performed giving an incidence of FOI of 1.2% (95% confidence interval 1%–1.4%). Of these, 86 (61%) were in awake and 55 (39%) in anaesthetised patients. Only 16 (11%) of the FOIs were done solely for the purposes of training. We suggest that a greater number of FOIs should be undertaken to allow trainees to gain and consultants to maintain the FOI expertise necessary for the provision of safe anaesthesia.
Current Understanding on the Role of Standard and Immunoproteasomes in Inflammatory/Immunological Pathways of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bellavista Elena , Santoro Aurelia , Galimberti Daniela , Comi Cristoforo , Luciani Fabio , Mishto Michele
Published: January 2014

The ubiquitin-proteasome system is the major intracellular molecular machinery for protein degradation and maintenance of protein homeostasis in most human cells. As ubiquitin-proteasome system plays a critical role in the regulation of the immune system, it might also influence the development and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Bothex vivoanalyses and animal models suggest that activity and composition of ubiquitin-proteasome system are altered in MS. Proteasome isoforms endowed of immunosubunits may affect the functionality of different cell types such as CD8+and CD4+T cells and B cells as well as neurons during MS development. Furthermore, the study of proteasome-related biomarkers, such as proteasome antibodies and circulating proteasomes, may represent a field of interest in MS. Proteasome inhibitors are already used as treatment for cancer and the recent development of inhibitors selective for immunoproteasome subunits may soon represent novel therapeutic approaches to the different forms of MS. In this review we describe the current knowledge on the potential role of proteasomes in MS and discuss thepro et contraof possible therapies for MS targeting proteasome isoforms.
De NovoAssembly and Characterization ofSophora japonicaTranscriptome Using RNA-seq
Authors: Zhu Liucun , Zhang Ying , Guo Wenna , Xu Xin-Jian , Wang Qiang
Published: January 2014

Sophora japonicaLinn (Chinese Scholar Tree) is a shrub species belonging to the subfamily Faboideae of the pea family Fabaceae. In this study, RNA sequencing ofS. japonicatranscriptome was performed to produce large expression datasets for functional genomic analysis. Approximate 86.1 million high-quality clean reads were generated and assembledde novointo 143010 unique transcripts and 57614 unigenes. The average length of unigenes was 901 bps with an N50 of 545 bps. Four public databases, including the NCBI nonredundant protein (NR), Swiss-Prot, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and the Cluster of Orthologous Groups (COG), were used to annotate unigenes through NCBI BLAST procedure. A total of 27541 of 57614 unigenes (47.8%) were annotated for gene descriptions, conserved protein domains, or gene ontology. Moreover, an interaction network of unigenes inS. japonicawas predicted based on known protein-protein interactions of putative orthologs of well-studied plant genomes. The transcriptome data ofS. japonicareported here represents first genome-scale investigation of gene expressions in Faboideae plants. We expect that our study will provide a useful resource for further studies on gene expression, genomics, functional genomics, and protein-protein interaction inS. japonica.
Recognition of Errors in the Refinement and Validation of Three-Dimensional Structures of AC1 Proteins of Begomovirus Strains by Using ProSA-Web
Authors: Prajapat Rajneesh , Marwal Avinash , Gaur R. K.
Published: January 2014

The structural model of begomovirus AC1 protein is useful for understanding biological function at molecular level and docking study. For this study we have used the ProSA program (Protein Structure Analysis) tool to establish the structure prediction and modeling of protein. This tool was used for refinement and validation of experimental protein structures. Potential problems of protein structures based on energy plots are easily seen by ProSA and are displayed in a three-dimensional manner. In the present study we have selected different AC1 proteins of begomovirus strains (YP_003288785, YP_002004579, and YP_003288773) for structural analysis and display of energy plots that highlight potential problems spotted in protein structures. The 3D models of Rep proteins with recognized errors can be effectively used for in silico docking study for development of potential ligand molecules against begomovirus infection.
Size Controlled Synthesis of Starch Nanoparticles by a Microemulsion Method
Authors: Chin Suk Fun , Azman Aressa , Pang Suh Cem
Published: January 2014

Controllable particles sizes of starch nanoparticles were synthesized via a precipitation in water‐in‐oil microemulsion approach. Microemulsion method offers the advantages of ultralow interfacial tension, large interfacial area, and being thermodynamically stable and affords monodispersed nanoparticles. The synthesis parameters such as stirring rates, ratios of oil/cosurfactant, oil phases, cosurfactants, and ratios of water/oil were found to affect the mean particle size of starch nanoparticles. Starch nanoparticles with mean particles sizes of 109 nm were synthesized by direct nanoprecipitation method, whereas by using precipitation in microemulsion approach, starch nanoparticles with smaller mean particles sizes of 83 nm were obtained.
Changes in Joint Gap Balances between Intra- and Postoperation in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Nakajima Arata , Aoki Yasuchika , Murakami Masazumi , Nakagawa Koichi
Published: January 2014

Achieving correct soft tissue balance and preparing equal and rectangular extension and flexion joint gaps are crucial goals of TKA. Intraoperative gap balances would change postoperatively; however, changes in joint gap balances between pre- and postoperation remain unclear. To explore these changes associated with TKA, we prospectively investigated 21 posterior cruciate ligament retaining TKAs for varus knees. Intraoperative extension gap balance (iEGB) was 2.6 ± 2.0° varus versus postoperative extension gap balance (pEGB) of 0.77 ± 1.8° valgus (P<0.01), while no significant difference between intraoperative flexion gap balance (iFGB) and postoperative flexion gap balance (pFGB) was observed. We also explored correlations between intraoperative and postoperative gap balances but found no significant correlations. These observations indicate that (i) surgeons should avoid excessive release of the medial soft tissue during TKA for varus knees and (ii) intraoperative gap balance may not be necessarily reflected on postoperative gap balance.
Towards Rational Designing of Efficient Sensitizers Based on Thiophene and Infrared Dyes for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Irfan Ahmad , Al-Sehemi Abdullah G. , Muhammad Shabbir
Published: January 2014

Geometries, electronic properties, and absorption spectra of the dyes which are a combination of thiophene based dye (THPD) and IR dyes (covering IR region; TIRBD1-TIRBD3) were performed using density functional theory (DFT) and time dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT), respectively. Different electron donating groups, electron withdrawing groups, and IR dyes have been substituted on THPD to enhance the efficiency. The bond lengths of new designed dyes are almost the same. The lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energies of designed dyes are above the conduction band of TiO2 and the highest occupied molecular orbital energies are below the redox couple revealing that TIRBD1-TIRBD3 would be better sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells. The broad spectra and low energy gap also showed that designed materials would be efficient sensitizers.
Chloroplast DNA Phylogeography of Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) in Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Bast Felix , Rani Pooja , Meena Devendra
Published: January 2014

Ocimum tenuiflorumL., holy basil “Tulsi”, is an important medicinal plant that is being grown and traditionally revered throughout Indian Subcontinent for thousands of years; however, DNA sequence-based genetic diversity of this aromatic herb is not yet known. In this report, we present our studies on the phylogeography of this species usingtrnL-trnFintergenic spacer of plastid genome as the DNA barcode for isolates from Indian subcontinent. Our pairwise distance analyses indicated that genetic heterogeneity of isolates remained quite low, with overall mean nucleotidep-distance of5×10-4. However, our sensitive phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood framework was able to reveal subtle intraspecific molecular evolution of this species within the subcontinent. All isolates except that from North-Central India formed a distinct phylogenetic clade, notwithstanding low bootstrap support and collapse of the clade in Bayesian Inference. North-Central isolates occupied more basal position compared to other isolates, which is suggestive of its evolutionarily primitive status. Indian isolates formed a monophyletic and well-supported clade withinO. tenuiflorumclade, which indicates a distinct haplotype. Given the vast geographical area of more than 3 million km2encompassing many exclusive biogeographical and ecological zones, relatively low rate of evolution of this herb at this locus in India is particularly interesting.
Five-Dimensional Space-Times with a Variable Gravitational and Cosmological Constant
Authors: Oli Sanjay
Published: January 2014

We have presented cosmological models in five-dimensional Kaluza-Klein space-time with a variable gravitational constant (G) and cosmological constant (Λ). We have investigated Einstein’s field equations for five-dimensional Kaluza-Klein space-time in the presence of perfect fluid with time dependent G and Λ. A variety of solutions have been found in which G increases and Λ decreases with time t, which matches with current observation. The properties of fluid and kinematical parameters have been discussed in detail.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Performed by Residents: A Retrospective Study on 569 Patients
Authors: Pariani Dario , Fontana Stefano , Zetti Giorgio , Cortese Ferdinando
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by residents.Materials and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed 569 elective laparoscopic cholecystectomies.Results. Duration of surgery was84±39min for residentsversus  66±47 min for staff surgeons,P<0.001. Rate of conversion was 3.2% for residentsversus2.7% for staff surgeons,P=0.7. There was no difference in the rates of intraoperative and postoperative complications for residents (1.2% and 3.2%)versusstaff surgeons (1.5% and 3.1%),P=0.7andP=0.9. Postoperative hospital stay was3.3±1.8days for residentsversus  3.4±3.2days for staff surgeons,P=0.6. One death in patients operated by residents (1/246) and one in patients operated by staff surgeons (1/323) were found,P=0.8. No difference in the time to return to normal daily activities between residents (11.3±4.2days) and staff surgeons (10.8±5.6days) was found,P=0.2. Shorter duration of surgery when operating the senior residents (75±31minutes) than the junior residents (87±27minutes),P=0.003.Conclusion. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed by residents is a safe procedure with results comparable to those of staff surgeons.
Permeability of Porous Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Barriers of Single and Bilayer Type for Implant Applications
Authors: Bergstrand Anna , Uppström Sanna , Larsson Anette
Published: January 2014

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) is a polyester which shows excellent biocompatibility and a PHB material is therefore considered suitable for many biomedical applications. A highly porous PHB material may be designed to facilitate the transport of small molecules and body fluids or serve as a biocompatible temporary barrier. In this study, PHB films with varying degree of porosity and pore interconnectivity were made by solvent casting using water-in-oil emulsion templates of varying composition. The morphology was characterized by SEM and the water permeability of the films was determined. The results show that an increased water content of the template emulsion resulted in a film with increased porosity. A fine tuning of the film morphology of the casted films was achieved by varying the salt content of the water phase of the template emulsion. The porosity of these films was roughly the same but the water permeability varied between23·10-13and1486·10-13 m2/s. It was concluded that the major determinant of the water permeability through these films is the pore interconnectivity. Furthermore, we report on the formation and water permeability of bilayer PHB films consisting of a porous layer combined with a dense backing layer.
Effects of Regional Mitochondrial Depolarization on Electrical Propagation
Authors: Zhou Lufang , Solhjoo Soroosh , Millare Brent , Plank Gernot , Abraham M. Roselle , Cortassa Sonia , Trayanova Natalia , O’Rourke Brian
Published: January 2014

Background—

Sudden cardiac death often involves arrhythmias triggered by metabolic stress. Loss of mitochondrial function is thought to contribute to the arrhythmogenic substrate, but how mitochondria contribute to uncoordinated electrical activity is poorly understood. It has been proposed that the formation of metabolic current sinks, caused by the nonuniform collapse of mitochondrial inner membrane potential (ΔΨ
m
), contributes to re-entrant arrhythmias because ΔΨ
m
depolarization is tightly coupled to the activation of sarcolemmal ATP-sensitive K
+
channels, hastening action potential repolarization and shortening the refractory period.

Methods and Results—

Here, we use computational and experimental methods to investigate how ΔΨ
m
instability can induce re-entrant arrhythmias. We develop the first tissue-level model of cardiac electrical propagation incorporating cellular electrophysiology, excitation–contraction coupling, mitochondrial energetics, and reactive oxygen species balance. Simulations show that re-entry and fibrillation can be initiated by regional ΔΨ
m
loss because of the disparity of refractory periods inside and outside the metabolic sink. Computational results are compared with the effects of a metabolic sink generated experimentally by local perfusion of a mitochondrial uncoupler in a monolayer of cardiac myocytes.

Conclusions—

The results demonstrate that regional mitochondrial depolarization triggered by oxidative stress activates sarcolemmal ATP-sensitive K
+
currents to form a metabolic sink. Consequent shortening of the action potential inside, but not outside, the sink increases the propensity for re-entry. ΔΨ
m
recovery during pacing can lead to novel mechanisms of ectopic activation. The findings highlight the importance of mitochondria as potential therapeutic targets for sudden death associated with cardiovascular disease.
The Association between Hearing Loss and Social Isolation in Older Adults
Authors: Mick Paul , Kawachi Ichiro , Lin Frank R.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To determine if age‐related hearing loss is associated with social isolation and whether factors such as age, gender, income, race, or hearing aid use moderated the association.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Randomly sampled United States communities.

Subjects and Methods

Cross‐sectional data on adults 60 to 84 years old from the 1999 to 2006 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed. The dependent variable was social isolation, which was defined using the social isolation score (SIS), a 4‐point composite index consisting of items pertaining to strength of social network and support. SIS scores ≥2 were considered indicative of social isolation. The independent (predictor) variable was the pure tone average of speech frequency (0.5‐4 kHz) hearing thresholds in the better‐hearing ear. Covariates included potential medical, demographic, and otologic confounders. We used multivariate logistic regression to evaluate the association between hearing loss and the odds of having social isolation. An exploratory analysis was performed to assess the strength of associations between hearing loss and individual items of the SIS scale.

Results

Greater hearing loss was associated with increased odds of social isolation in women aged 60 to 69 years (odds ratio [OR], 3.49 per 25‐dB of hearing loss; 95% confidence interval, 1.91, 6.39;P<. 001). Effect modification by gender was significant in this age group (P=. 003). Hearing loss was not significantly associated with social isolation in other age and gender groups.

Conclusions

Greater hearing loss is associated with increased odds of being social isolated in a nationally representative sample of women aged 60 to 69 years.
Speed of Processing Training in the ACTIVE Study
Authors: Ball Karlene K. , Ross Lesley A. , Roth David L. , Edwards Jerri D.
Published: January 2014

Objectives: Cognitive training has been shown to improve both cognitive and everyday abilities in older adults; however, little is known concerning the amount of training needed or the characteristics of those who benefit. These analyses examined the longitudinal impact of dosage (number of training sessions) on the improvement and maintenance of cognitive and everyday function. Methods: ACTIVE is a longitudinal, randomized, single-blind clinical trial evaluating cognitive interventions in older adults (aged 65-94) from six states in the United States. Results: Latent growth curve models indicated that initial training effects were maintained over 5 years and amplified by booster sessions. A single booster session counteracted 4.92 months of age-related processing speed decline. Discussion: Cognitive performance improved by 2.5 standard deviations for participants who attended all 10 initial sessions and all 8 booster sessions compared to randomized participants who attended none. Implications for the broader application of cognitive training interventions are discussed.
Cognitive Longitudinal Predictors of Older Adults’ Self-Reported IADL Function
Authors: Yam Anna , Marsiske Michael
Published: January 2014

Objective: To examine basic and everyday cognitive predictors of older adults’ self-reported instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Method: Basic and everyday cognitive predictors of self-reported IADL were examined in a sample of healthy, community-dwelling older adults ( n = 698) assessed over 5 years of measurement. Results: Multilevel longitudinal analyses revealed linear and quadratic change trends for self-reported IADL function, with steeper declines at higher ages. Within-person, when participants exhibited lower cognitive performance, they also reported more IADL impairment. Everyday cognition remained a significant unique predictor of self-reported IADL after controlling for attrition, resampling effects, temporal gradients, and baseline levels and changes in demographic, sensory, functional, and basic cognitive measures. Discussion: By itself, everyday cognition appears to be an important predictor of self-reported IADL, and maintains a unique predictive contribution after many covariates are controlled. Future research should consider the inclusion of everyday cognitive measures in functional assessment batteries.
Race-Related Disparities in 5-Year Cognitive Level and Change in Untrained Active Participants
Authors: Marsiske Michael , Dzierzewski Joseph M. , Thomas Kelsey R. , Kasten Linda , Jones Richard N. , Johnson Kathy E. , Willis Sherry L. , Whitfield Keith E. , Ball Karlene K. , Rebok George W.
Published: January 2014

Objective: The current study examined a 5-year cognitive change in untrained African American and White participants from the Advanced Cognitive Training in Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) study. Method: Five-year trajectories of memory, reasoning, visual processing speed/useful field of view, digit-symbol substitution, and vocabulary were investigated. Education, health, gender, age, and retest/practice effects were controlled for, and a missing data pattern mixture approach was used to adjust for dropout effects. Results: After considering age, education, health, and gender, being African American uniquely explained 2% to 7% of the variance in cognitive performance. There were virtually no significant race differences in the rates of change. Discussion: Race-related results in the current study are consistent with previous research suggesting that social advantage factors such as education have a stronger influence on the level of performance than the rate of change. The small remaining effects of being African American on performance levels likely reflect uncontrolled variation in factors like literacy and financial advantage.
Mitogen activated protein kinase kinase kinase 3 (MAP3K3/MEKK3) overexpression is an early event in esophageal tumorigenesis and is a predictor of poor disease prognosis
Authors: Hasan Raghibul , Sharma Rinu , Saraya Anoop , Chattopadhyay Tushar K , DattaGupta Siddartha , Walfish Paul G , Chauhan Shyam S , Ralhan Ranju
Published: January 2014

Background

Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase3 (MAP3K3/MEKK3) was identified to be differentially expressed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using cDNA microarrays by our laboratory. Here in we determined the clinical significance of MEKK3 in ESCC.

Methods

Immunohistochemical analysis of MEKK3 expression was carried out in archived tissue sections from 93 ESCCs, 47 histologically normal and 61 dysplastic esophageal tissues and correlated with clinicopathological parameters and disease prognosis over up to 7.5 years for ESCC patients.

Results

MEKK3 expression was significantly increased in esophageal dysplasia and ESCC in comparison with normal mucosa (ptrend < 0.001). Kaplan Meier survival analysis showed significantly reduced median disease free survival median DFS = 10 months in patients with MEKK3 positive ESCCs compared to patients with no immunopositivity (median DFS = 19 months, p = 0.04). ESCC patients with MEKK3 positive and lymph node positive tumors had median DFS = 9 months, as compared to median DFS = 21 months in patients who did not show the alterations (p = 0.01). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, combination of MEKK3 overexpression and node positivity [p = 0.015, hazard ratio (HR) = 2.082, 95% CI = 1.154 - 3.756] emerged as important predictor of reduced disease free survival and poor prognosticator for ESCC patients.

Conclusions

Alterations in MEKK3 expression occur in early stages of development of ESCC and are sustained during disease progression; MEKK3 in combination with lymph node positivity has the potential to serve as adverse prognosticator in ESCC.