bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Suitable Microspore Stage and Callus Induction from Anthers of Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinusL.)
Authors: Mahmood Ibrahim Ahmed , Binti Kayat Fatimah , Ermiena Surya Mat Hussin Zeti , Susanto Dwi , Ariffulah Mohammed
Published: March 2014

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinusL.) is one of the important species ofHibiscuscultivated for fiber. Availability of homozygous parent lines is prerequisite to the use of the heterosis effect reproducible in hybrid breeding. The production of haploid plants by anther culture followed by chromosome doubling can be achieved in short period compared with inbred lines by conventional method that requires self pollination of parent material. In this research, the effects of the microspore developmental stage, time of flower collection, various pretreatments, different combinations of hormones, and culture condition on anther culture of KB6 variety of Kenaf were studied. Young flower buds with immature anthers at the appropriate stage of microspore development were sterilized and the anthers were carefully dissected from the flower buds and subjected to various pretreatments and different combinations of hormones like NAA, 2,4-D, Kinetin, BAP, and TDZ to induce callus. The best microspore development stage of the flower buds was about 6–8 mm long collected 1-2 weeks after flower initiation. At that stage, the microspores were at the uninucleate stage which was suitable for culture. The best callus induction frequency was 90% in the optimized semisolid MS medium fortified with 3.0 mg/L BAP + 3.0 mg/L NAA.
Preliminary Experimental Study on Pressure Loss Coefficients of Exhaust Manifold Junction
Authors: Lu Xiao-lu , Zhang Kun , Wang Wen-hui , Wang Shao-ming , Deng Kang-yao
Published: March 2014

The flow characteristic of exhaust system has an important impact on inlet boundary of the turbine. In this paper, high speed flow in a diesel exhaust manifold junction was tested and simulated. The pressure loss coefficient of the junction flow was analyzed. The steady experimental results indicated that both of static pressure loss coefficientsL13andL23first increased and then decreased with the increase of mass flow ratio of lateral branch and public manifold. The total pressure loss coefficientK13always increased with the increase of mass flow ratio of junctions 1 and 3. The total pressure loss coefficientK23first increased and then decreased with the increase of mass flow ratio of junctions 2 and 3. These pressure loss coefficients of the exhaust pipe junctions can be used in exhaust flow and turbine inlet boundary conditions analysis. In addition, simulating calculation was conducted to analyze the effect of branch angle on total pressure loss coefficient. According to the calculation results, total pressure loss coefficient was almost the same at low mass flow rate of branch manifold 1 but increased with lateral branch angle at high mass flow rate of branch manifold 1.
Computed Tomography Angiography for Detection of Middle Meningeal Artery Lesions Associated with Acute Epidural Hematomas
Authors: Paiva Wellingson Silva , Andrade Almir Ferreira , Amorim Robson Luis Oliveira De , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Gattas Gabriel , Neville Iuri Santana , Caldas Jose Guilherme , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: March 2014

Background.The natural history of traumatic aneurysms of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) is not well known, but patients with these lesions are more likely to have delayed bleeds. In this paper, we described a series of patients with epidural hematoma who underwent angiotomography (CTA) for MMA vascular lesion diagnosis.Methods.Eleven patients admitted to our emergency unit with small acute epidural hematoma were prospectively studied. All patients with temporal acute epidural hematomas underwent CTA and cerebral angiogram at our institution for diagnosis of posttraumatic lesions of middle meningeal artery. The findings of angiotomography and digital angiography were reviewed by radiologist and angiographers, respectively, to ensure that the lesions were readily diagnosed without knowing the results of angiotomography and to compare CTA findings with standard angiogram.Results.The causes of head injury were traffic accidents, falls, and aggression. Three of these patients presented traumatic MMA pseudoaneurysm. CT angiography was able to diagnose all of them, with dimensions ranging from 1.5 to 2.8 mm. Conventional angiography confirmed the findings of CT angiography, and the lesions presented with similar dimensions at both methods.Conclusions.We believe that angiotomography can be a useful technique for diagnosis of vascular lesion associated with small epidural hematoma.
A New Subspecies Identification and Population Study of the Asian Small-Clawed Otter (Aonyx cinereus) in Malay Peninsula and Southern Thailand Based on Fecal DNA Method
Authors: Rosli M. K. A. , Syed-Shabthar S. M. F. , Abdul-Patah P. , Abdul-Samad Z. , Abdul S. N. , Burhanuddin M. N. , Zulkifli N. A. , Shukor M. N. , Budsabong K. , Changtragoon S. , Sekiguchi T. , Sasaki H. , Md-Zain B. M.
Published: March 2014

Three species of otter can be found throughout Malay Peninsula:Aonyx cinereus,Lutra sumatrana, andLutrogale perspicillata. In this study, we focused on theA. cinereuspopulation that ranges from the southern andtheeast coast to the northern regions of Malay Peninsula up to southern Thailand to review the relationships between the populations based on the mitochondrial D-loop region. Forty-eight samples from six populations were recognized as Johor, Perak, Terengganu, Kelantan, Ranong, and Thale Noi. Among the 48 samples, 33 were identified asA. cinereus, seven asL. sumatrana, and eight asL. perspicillata. Phylogenetically, two subclades formed forA. cinereus. The first subclade grouped all Malay Peninsula samples except for samples from Kelantan, and the second subclade grouped Kelantan samples with Thai sample. Genetic distance analysis supported the close relationships between Thai and Kelantan samples compared to the samples from Terengganu and the other Malaysian states. A minimum-spanning network showed that Kelantan and Thailand formed a haplogroup distinct from the other populations. Our results show that Thai subspeciesA. cinereusmay have migrated to Kelantan from Thai mainland. We also suggest the classification of a new subspecies from Malay Peninsula, the small-clawed otter namedA. cinereus kecilensis.
Personality, Category, and Cross-Linguistic Speech Sound Processing: A Connectivistic View
Authors: Lan Yizhou , Li Will X. Y.
Published: March 2014

Category formation of human perception is a vital part of cognitive ability. The disciplines of neuroscience and linguistics, however, seldom mention it in the marrying of the two. The present study reviews the neurological view of language acquisition as normalization of incoming speech signal, and attempts to suggest how speech sound category formation may connect personality with second language speech perception. Through a questionnaire, (being thick or thin) ego boundary, a correlate found to be related to category formation, was proven a positive indicator of personality types. Following the qualitative study, thick boundary and thin boundary English learners native in Cantonese were given a speech-signal perception test using an ABX discrimination task protocol. Results showed that thick-boundary learners performed significantly lower in accuracy rate than thin-boundary learners. It was implied that differences in personality do have an impact on language learning.
Variational Iteration Method for Solving the Generalized Degasperis-Procesi Equation
Authors: Lijuan Qian , Lixin Tian , Kaiping Ma
Published: March 2014

We introduce the variational iteration method for solving the generalized Degasperis-Procesi equation. Firstly, according to the variational iteration, the Lagrange multiplier is found after making the correction functional. Furthermore, several approximations ofun+1(x,t)which is converged tou(x,t)are obtained, and the exact solutions of Degasperis-Procesi equation will be obtained by using the traditional variational iteration method with a suitable initial approximationu0(x,t). Finally, after giving the perturbation item, the approximate solution for original equation will be expressed specifically.
Introduction to gb-Triple Systems
Authors: Biyogmam Guy Roger
Published: March 2014

This paper introduces the category of gb-triple systems and studies some of their algebraic properties. Also provided is a functor from this category to the category of Leibniz algebras.
Plant Virus Expression Vector Development: New Perspectives
Authors: Hefferon Kathleen
Published: March 2014

Plant made biologics have elicited much attention over recent years for their potential in assisting those in developing countries who have poor access to modern medicine. Additional applications such as the stockpiling of vaccines against pandemic infectious diseases or potential biological warfare agents are also under investigation. Plant virus expression vectors represent a technology that enables high levels of pharmaceutical proteins to be produced in a very short period of time. Recent advances in research and development have brought about the generation of superior virus expression systems which can be readily delivered to the host plant in a manner that is both efficient and cost effective. This review presents recent innovations in plant virus expression systems and their uses for producing biologics from plants.
Effect of Superoxide Dismutase on Semen Parameters and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities of Liquid Stored (5°C) Mithun (Bos frontalis) Semen
Authors: Perumal P.
Published: March 2014

The present study was undertaken to assess the effect of superoxide dismutase (SOD) on sperm motility, and viability; total sperm abnormality; acrosomal and plasma membrane integrity; DNA abnormality; antioxidant profiles such as catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC); enzymatic profiles such as aspartate amino transaminase (AST), and alanine amino transaminase (ALT); and biochemical profiles such as malondialdehyde (MDA) production and cholesterol efflux. Total numbers of 50 ejaculates were collected twice a week from eight mithun bulls and semen was split into four equal aliquots, diluted with the TEYC extender. Group 1: semen without additives (control), and group 2 to group 4: semen was diluted with 50 U/mL, 100 U/mL, and 150 U/mL of SOD, respectively. These seminal parameters, antioxidant, enzymatic, and biochemical profiles were assessed at 5°C for 1, 6, 12, 24, and 30 h of incubation. Inclusion of SOD into diluent resulted in significant (P<0.05) decrease in percentages of dead spermatozoa, abnormal spermatozoa, and acrosomal abnormalities at different hours of storage periods as compared with control group. Additionally, SOD at 100 U/mL has significant improvement in quality of mithun semen than SOD at 50 or 150 U/mL stored inin-vitrofor up to 30 h. It was concluded that the possible protective effects of SOD on sperm parameters are that it prevents MDA production and preserves the antioxidants and intracellular enzymes during preservation.
Self-Supervised Chinese Ontology Learning from Online Encyclopedias
Authors: Hu Fanghuai , Shao Zhiqing , Ruan Tong
Published: March 2014

Constructing ontology manually is a time-consuming, error-prone, and tedious task. We present SSCO, a self-supervised learning based chinese ontology, which contains about 255 thousand concepts, 5 million entities, and 40 million facts. We explore the three largest online Chinese encyclopedias for ontology learning and describe how to transfer the structured knowledge in encyclopedias, including article titles, category labels, redirection pages, taxonomy systems, and InfoBox modules, into ontological form. In order to avoid the errors in encyclopedias and enrich the learnt ontology, we also apply some machine learning based methods. First, we proof that the self-supervised machine learning method is practicable in Chinese relation extraction (at least for synonymy and hyponymy) statistically and experimentally and train some self-supervised models (SVMs and CRFs) for synonymy extraction, concept-subconcept relation extraction, and concept-instance relation extraction; the advantages of our methods are that all training examples are automatically generated from the structural information of encyclopedias and a few general heuristic rules. Finally, we evaluate SSCO in two aspects, scale and precision; manual evaluation results show that the ontology has excellent precision, and high coverage is concluded by comparing SSCO with other famous ontologies and knowledge bases; the experiment results also indicate that the self-supervised models obviously enrich SSCO.
The Exponentiated Half-Logistic Family of Distributions: Properties and Applications
Authors: Cordeiro Gauss M. , Alizadeh Morad , Ortega Edwin M. M.
Published: March 2014

We study some mathematical properties of a new generator of continuous distributions with two extra parameters called the exponentiated half-logistic family. We present some special models. We investigate the shapes of the density and hazard rate function. We derive explicit expressions for the ordinary and incomplete moments, quantile and generating functions, probability weighted moments, Bonferroni and Lorenz curves, Shannon and Rényi entropies, and order statistics, which hold for any baseline model. We introduce two bivariate extensions of this family. We discuss the estimation of the model parameters by maximum likelihood and demonstrate the potentiality of the new family by means of two real data sets.
Efficacy of Neem Oil on Cardamom Thrips,Sciothrips cardamomiRamk., and Organoleptic Studies
Authors: Stanley Johnson , Preetha G. , Chandrasekaran S. , Gunasekaran K. , Kuttalam S.
Published: March 2014

The neem tree contains promising pest control substances which are effective against many pests. Oil extracted from neem seeds was used against cardamom thrips,Sciothrips cardamomi, a severe and economic pest of cardamom. Neem oil formulations, namely, Tamil Nadu Agricultural univeristy neem oil (TNAU NO) (acetic acid & citric acid), were found effective against the pest with a overall damage reduction of 30% after 14 days of treatment. The percent damage reduction in capsules over control after three consecutive sprays of TNAU NO(C) 2% and TNAU NO(A) 2% was 78.3 and 75.2 percent, respectively. The newly extracted and unformulated neem oil, though found inferior to the formulated one, still found to cause 50% and 70% reduction in damage caused by thrips at two and three rounds of sprays, making it useful in pest management. Organoleptic tests conducted on cardamom capsules sprayed with neem oil revealed no significant difference in taste, aroma, and overall acceptability of cow milk boiled with cardamom. Thus, TNAU NO (A and C) 2% was found effective against cardamom thrips with no adverse organoleptic properties and can be recommended.
Edge Domination in Some Path and Cycle Related Graphs
Authors: Vaidya S. K. , Pandit R. M.
Published: March 2014

For a graph G=V,E, a subset F of E is called an edge dominating set of G if every edge not in F is adjacent to some edge in F. The edge domination number γ′G of G is the minimum cardinality taken over all edge dominating sets of G. Here, we determine the edge domination number for shadow graphs, middle graphs, and total graphs of paths and cycles.
Predicting Visual Outcome following Surgery for Idiopathic Macular Holes
Authors: Kusuhara Sentaro , Negi Akira
Published: March 2014

Since Kelly and Wendel [Arch Ophthalmol 1991;109:654-659] first reported successfully treating macular holes (MHs) using pars plana vitrectomy in 1991, MH surgery has been constantly improved. For example, introducing the removal of the internal limiting membrane considerably increased the closure rate of MHs, and the advent of microincision vitrectomy surgery reduced surgical trauma and decreased patient discomfort after surgery. As modern MH surgery can achieve a higher anatomical success rate and alleviate patients' postoperative distress, postoperative visual outcomes have lately become the primary concern. Informing patients of the expected visual acuity and visual improvement before surgery is ideal, but predicting postoperative visual outcomes is difficult because a large number of factors are associated with them. In this paper, we review previous studies and provide accumulating evidence for the relationship between individual prognostic factors and visual outcomes after MH surgery.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration Screening Using a Nonmydriatic Digital Color Fundus Camera and Telemedicine
Authors: De Bats F. , Vannier Nitenberg C. , Fantino B. , Denis P. , Kodjikian L.
Published: March 2014

Purpose: To investigate the use of a nonmydriatic digital color fundus camera and telemedicine as screening tools for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: Nonmydriatic color fundus photography was performed on patients consulting health examination centers and transmitted by telemedicine to an ophthalmology department. Rates for different grades of AMD were calculated and also statistically related to the presence or absence of risk factors. Results: Among the 1,022 patients screened, a total of 1,363 color fundus photographs were interpreted, with 80% gradable images, allowing a diagnosis of AMD in 178 photographs. Among all the gradable images, 83.7% had no AMD (grade 0). The rates of AMD at grades 1, 2, 3 and 4 were 8%, 5.6%, 2.3% and 0.4%, respectively. A statistical odds ratio was found between the presence of AMD on fundus photographs and age, familial history of AMD or prior cataract surgery. Conclusions: Nonmydriatic color fundus photography and telemedicine succeeded in screening for AMD.
Agreement between Central Corneal Thickness Measured Using Pentacam, Ultrasound Pachymetry, Specular Microscopy and Optic Biometer Lenstar LS 900 and the Influence of Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Borrego-Sanz L. , Sáenz-Francés F. , Bermudez-Vallecilla M. , Morales-Fernández L. , Martínez-de-la-Casa J.M. , Santos-Bueso E. , Jañez L. , García-Feijoo J.
Published: March 2014

Purpose: To compare central corneal thickness (CCT) values obtained by Lenstar (LE), Pentacam (PC), specular microscopy (SM) and ultrasound pachymetry (UP) in healthy corneas and study their influence on intraocular pressure (IOP) readings determined by Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT). Methods: CCT was measured in 76 healthy subjects by LE, PC, SM and UP. We established Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (ρ-C) between different techniques. The influence of CCT on GAT was established through univariate linear regression models, IOP being the dependent variable. Results: The highest ρ-C was found between LE and SM at 0.94 (95% CI: 0.91-0.96) and between LE and UP at 0.95 (95% CI: 0.94-0.97). IOP readings showed less variability when CCT was determined using LE (7.7%, B = 0.16; 95% CI: 0.004-0.28). Conclusions: Although CCT values obtained with UP, PC, SM and LE show good correlation, these methods are not completely interchangeable. The amount of IOP variation differs when CCT is determined using LE or SM.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Isosorbide Mononitrate and Doxazosin in the Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Tarhan Fatih , Çelik Osman , Tosun Çağatay , Faydacı Gökhan , Eryıldırım Bilal
Published: March 2014

Objective: We aimed to compare the efficacy of isosorbide mononitrate and doxazosin in the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Patients and Methods: 80 patients with LUTS were included in this randomized clinical study. All patients were evaluated with uroflowmetry, post-void residual (PVR) urine, prostate volume, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), serum PSA, urinalysis and culture. 40 patients were prescribed doxazosin for 4 weeks, another 40 were prescribed isosorbide mononitrate for 4 weeks. Urologic re-evaluation was done at the end of the study. Results: 74 patients completed the study. The mean age of patients was 59.6 ± 0.7 years, the mean PSA value was 1.7 ± 0.1 ng/ml and the mean prostate volume was 41.9 ± 1.7 ml. Doxazosin markedly improved IPSS (from 16.2 ± 0.7 to 9.5 ± 0.5), maximum urinary flow rate (from 10.9 ± 0.7 to 12.8 ± 0.6 ml/s) and PVR urine (from 68.1 ± 9.4 to 39.0 ± 4.4 ml) (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.0004, respectively). Isosorbide only improved IPSS (from 16.5 ± 0.9 to 14.6 ± 0.8) (p = 0.032). Conclusions: Daily administration of isosorbide does not seem to be an alternative to α-blocker therapy. Controlled, randomized novel studies are required to establish that whether nitric oxide donors are an effective alternative in LUTS treatment.
Characterising Novel Pathways in Testis Determination Using Mouse Genetics
Authors: Carré Gwenn-Aël , Greenfield Andy
Published: March 2014

Mammalian sex determination is the process by which the bipotential embryonic genital ridge commits to either the testicular or ovarian fate. The existence of a gonad primordium with 2 possible developmental outcomes, depending on the presence or absence of the Y chromosome, remains a fascinating paradigm for examining the manner in which genes cooperate to establish cell fate and regulate differentiation. Development of the mouse gonad offers a unique model for the investigation of sex determination, characterised by powerful transgenic, genomic and other experimental resources for the study of the molecular control of organogenesis. This review focuses on recent progress in our understanding of mouse testis determination, with an emphasis on multi-locus studies of mutant alleles aimed at constructing pathways of interacting gene products. Studies in 2 broad areas have been especially revealing: (i) identification of pathways required for the appropriate expression of Sry, and (ii) characterisation of the antagonistic interactions between the core testis- (SRY-SOX9-FGF9) and ovary- (RSPO1-WNT4-CTNNB1-FOXL2) determining gene regulatory networks. We discuss these advances with an eye on emerging themes in mammalian sex determination.
Acinic Cell Carcinoma of the Salivary Gland with Metastatic Spread to the Pancreas
Authors: Geiger Jessica L. , García Joaquín J. , Price Katharine A.R.
Published: March 2014

Metastatic disease to the pancreas is rare among solid tumors and has not been well described for salivary cancers. We report a patient who developed an isolated metastatic lesion in the pancreas from acinic cell carcinoma of the salivary gland, presenting as acute pancreatitis.
Reduced-Intensity Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation for Co-Emergence of Chemotherapy-Refractory Follicular Lymphoma and Therapy-Related Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Shimura Yuji , Kuroda Junya , Sasaki Nana , Uchiyama Hitoji , Ohshiro Muneo , Matsumura Yayoi , Nagoshi Hisao , Mizutani Shinsuke , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Matsumoto Yosuke , Horiike Shigeo , Taniwaki Masafumi
Published: March 2014

A 54-year-old male was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma in September 2003. Despite multiple chemotherapies, including autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with high-dose chemotherapy, the disease eventually relapsed. Additionally, bone marrow analysis revealed the co-emergence of therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) in February 2012. In March 2012, we performed related allogeneic HSCT for the treatment of both malignancies. This strategy was successful and the patient has remained free from both malignancies for 23 months. Allogeneic HSCT is a potent curative therapeutic option for both t-MDS and refractory follicular lymphoma.
The Implications of Marriage Structure for Men’s Workplace Attitudes, Beliefs, and Behaviors toward Women
Authors: Desai Sreedhari D. , Chugh Dolly , Brief Arthur P.
Published: March 2014

Based on five studies with a total of 993 married, heterosexual male participants, we found that marriage structure has important implications for attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to gender among heterosexual married men in the workplace. Specifically, men in traditional marriages—married to women who are not employed—disfavor women in the workplace and are more likely than the average of all married men to make decisions that prevent the advancement of qualified women. Results show that employed men in traditional marriages tend to (a) view the presence of women in the workplace unfavorably, (b) perceive that organizations with higher numbers of female employees are operating less smoothly, (c) perceive organizations with female leaders as relatively unattractive, and (d) deny qualified female employees opportunities for promotions more frequently than do other married male employees. Moreover, our final study suggests that men who are single and then marry women who are not employed may change their attitudes toward women in the workplace, becoming less positive. The consistent pattern of results across multiple studies employing multiple methods (lab, longitudinal, archival) and samples (U.S., U.K., undergraduates, managers) demonstrates the robustness of our findings that the structure of a man’s marriage influences his gender ideology in the workplace, presenting an important challenge to workplace egalitarianism.
Dr Karl Koenig: a brief survey of his extraordinary early years
Authors: Jackson Robin
Published: March 2014

Over 70 years ago, an Austrian émigré doctor – Karl Koenig – came to Scotland where he established the Camphill Movement. Today that Movement embraces over 100 communities for children and adults with developmental disabilities in at least 24 countries. One aspect of Koenig’s biography that has not been explored concerns his childhood: an extraordinary omission given its inspirational character. Without an appreciation of this critical period in his life, any understanding of his very considerable achievements not least his pioneering success in establishing the Camphill Movement must be incomplete.
Reading Emerson in Neoliberal Times
Authors: Button Mark E.
Published: March 2014

Nineteenth-century American political thinkers like Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman advocated for and sought to exemplify a life of self-direction and critical self-reflection, or personal autonomy, as a means of contesting entrenched routines of democratic-capitalist normalization and as a way of resisting a host of institutional disciplinary pressures. Today, the ideal of personal autonomy within a diverse liberal society is branded by many as a form of “comprehensive” disciplinary normalization in its own right. In this essay I offer a reconsideration of this reversal in the appraisal of the value of autonomy within pluralistic democratic societies and argue that the abandonment of autonomy is a symptom of a mistaken understanding of the personal-ethical qualities upon which a democratic culture depends and a maladaptive concession to neoliberal norms. To confront these challenges, I draw upon a range of Emerson’s writings to offer some ideas about how a reconstructed ideal of aspirational autonomy might inform contemporary politics without unduly constraining moral pluralism or undermining toleration.
Perceived Benefits of Group Exercise Among Individuals With Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Powell-Cope Gail , Quigley Patricia A. , Besterman-Dahan Karen , Lind Jason D.
Published: March 2014

Exercise and training programs improve strength, functional balance, and prevent falls in a variety of populations. This article presents the qualitative findings related to the perceived benefits of participants in a randomized controlled trial that compared the effectiveness of group exercise on gait and balance in persons with peripheral neuropathy (PN). Participants with moderately severe PN were randomized into groups that received 10-week classes of Functional Balance Training (FBT) or Tai Chi or education alone. Perceptions of the intervention were overwhelmingly positive regardless of the study group. Perceived benefits reported by participants in the FBT and Tai Chi groups included awareness of how to deal with the effects of neuropathy by implementing balance strategies and a heightened sense of walking to prevent falls. This study offers a guide to design future exercise studies that promote simple balance exercises that can be performed in group settings.
Psychometric properties of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Inventory in a Canadian sample
Authors: Henderson Leigh C , Antony Martin M , Koerner Naomi
Published: March 2014

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Inventory is a recently developed self-report measure that assesses symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Its psychometric properties have not been investigated further since its original development. The current study investigated its psychometric properties in a Canadian student/community sample. Exploratory principal component analysis replicated the original three-component structure. The total scale and subscales demonstrated excellent internal consistency reliability ( α = 0.84–0.94) and correlated strongly with the Penn State Worry Questionnaire ( r = 0.41–0.74, all ps <0.001) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 ( r = 0.55–0.84, all ps <0.001). However, only the total scale and cognitive subscale ( r = 0.48–0.49, all ps <0.05) significantly predicted generalized anxiety disorder diagnosis established by diagnostic interview. The somatic subscale in particular may require revision to improve predictive validity. Revision may also be necessary given changes in required somatic symptoms for generalized anxiety disorder diagnostic criteria in more recent versions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (i.e. although major changes occurred from Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-III-R to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV, changes in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 were minimal) and the possibility of changes in the upcoming 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases.
Meniscal Root Tears
Authors: Bhatia Sanjeev , LaPrade Christopher M. , Ellman Michael B. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: March 2014

Meniscal root tears, less common than meniscal body tears and frequently unrecognized, are a subset of meniscal injuries that often result in significant knee joint disorders. The meniscus root attachment aids meniscal function by securing the meniscus in place and allowing for optimal shock-absorbing function in the knee. With root tears, meniscal extrusion often occurs, and the transmission of circumferential hoop stresses is impaired. This alters knee biomechanics and kinematics and significantly increases tibiofemoral contact pressure. In recent years, meniscal root tears, which by definition include direct avulsions off the tibial plateau or radial tears adjacent to the root itself, have attracted attention because of concerns that significant meniscal extrusion dramatically inhibits normal meniscal function, leading to a condition biomechanically similar to a total meniscectomy. Recent literature has highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and treatment; fortunately, these processes have been vastly improved by advances in magnetic resonance imaging and arthroscopy. This article presents a review of the clinically relevant anatomic, biomechanical, and functional descriptions of the meniscus root attachments, as well as current strategies for accurate diagnosis and treatment of common injuries to these meniscus root attachments.
Nanoparticles of star-like copolymer mannitol-functionalized poly(lactide)-vitamin E TPGS for delivery of paclitaxel to prostate cancer cells
Authors: Wang Kebing , Guo Longhua , Xiong Wei , Sun Leilei , Zheng Yi
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this research was to develop novel nanoparticles (NPs) of star-like copolymer mannitol-functionalized poly(lactide)-vitamin E TPGS (M-PLA-TPGS) for paclitaxel delivery for prostate cancer treatment, and evaluate their therapeutic effects in prostate cancer cell line and animal model in comparison with the linear PLGA NPs and poly(lactide)-vitamin E TPGS (PLA-TPGS) NPs. The paclitaxel-loaded M-PLA-TPGS NPs, prepared by a modified nano-precipitation method, were observed by FESEM to be near-spherical shape with narrow size distribution. The drug-loaded NPs were further characterized in terms of size, surface charge, drug content, encapsulation efficiency and in vitro drug release. The results showed that the M-PLA-TPGS NPs were found to be stable, showing almost no change in particle size and surface charge during the three-month storage period. In vitro drug release exhibited biphasic pattern with initial burst release followed by slow and continuous release. The cellular uptake level of M-PLA-TPGS NPs was demonstrated higher than linear PLGA NPs and PLA-TPGS NPs in PC-3 cells. The data also showed that the paclitaxel-loaded M-PLA-TPGS nanoparticles have higher antitumor efficacy than that of linear PLA-TPGS nanoparticles and PLGA nanoparticles in vitro and in vivo. In summary, the star-like copolymer M-PLA-TPGS could be used as a potential and promising molecular biomaterial in developing novel nanoformulation for prostate cancer treatment.
Deconstructing College Students’ Perceptions of Thin-Idealized Versus Nonidealized Media Images on Body Dissatisfaction and Advertising Effectiveness
Authors: Yu Ui-Jeen
Published: March 2014

Previous studies focused on revealing the negative effects of media exposure to thin-ideals on body image, such as body dissatisfaction, but overlooked investigating a possible influence of deflated body image after thin-idealized media exposure on advertising effectiveness. Therefore, this study investigated how the exposure of thin- versus non-idealized model images in fashion ads influence body dissatisfaction and advertising effectiveness. A conceptual model was developed, based on social comparison theory. A total of 380 female college students responded to a web-based survey. Results indicate participants exposed to thin-idealized model images showed greater body dissatisfaction and lower advertising effectiveness than those participants exposed to non-idealized model images. However, inflated body dissatisfaction after exposure to thin-idealized model images did not significantly or negatively influence advertising effectiveness. For more positive body image development and managerial implications of fashion advertising strategies, the potential use of non-idealized model images is suggested.
Mechanical and dielectric properties of blends of dicyanate ester and bisphenol A-based benzoxazine
Authors: Yan Hongxia , Li Tingting , Zhang Mengmeng , Feng Shuyao
Published: March 2014

Bisphenol A-based benzoxazine (BOZ) was blended with cyanate ester (CE) to improve the properties of cyanate resin. The effects of the content of BOZ on the mechanical property and dielectric property of the blends have been investigated. The results show that a suitable addition of BOZ can enhance the impact strength and flexural strength as well as reduce the dielectric constant and the dielectric loss of CE. The mechanical properties are significantly improved when the content of BOZ is 10 wt%, and the dynamic mechanical analysis reveals that the cross-link density of the blend is lower than pure CE. Scanning electron microscopy analysis shows distinct characteristics of ductile fracture of the blends. In addition, the dielectric constant and the dielectric loss of modified system decreases, compared with the curing CE. The optimal addition amount of BOZ resin is 15 wt% for the dielectric properties. The blend of a suitable addition of BOZ still remains a good thermal resistance. All these changes in properties are closely correlated to the copolymerization between BOZ and CE.
Research on the performance of an electronically controlled spark ignition engine fuelled with hydrogen-rich gases
Authors: Yao Chunde , Li Xucong , Zang Ruzhen , Xu Yuanli
Published: March 2014

Because of the storage and safety of hydrogen on board vehicles, there still exist many problems; this paper introduces a system of hydrogen-rich gases and its application to an electronically controlled spark ignition engine. The hydrogen-rich gases from the designed reformer are produced by methanol dissociated by the heat recycled from the exhaust emissions of an engine. The effects of the hydrogen-rich gases on the performances of the engine were investigated for lean-burning operations. The test results indicate that the engine can operate using a very lean fuel mixture owing to the wide ignition limits of the hydrogen-rich gases. When the excessive air-to-fuel ratio is higher than 1.4, the nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced by 90%, the carbon monoxide emissions are ultra-low, and the hydrocarbon emissions are at nearly the same level as those produced from a gasoline engine. In addition, while maintaining the power output of the engine, lean burning of the hydrogen-rich gases and partial recycling of the exhaust heat significantly improve the brake thermal efficiency of methanol.
Diagnostic value of tissue monensin concentrations in horses following toxicosis
Authors: Bautista Adrienne C. , Tahara John , Mete Aslı , Gaskill Cynthia L. , Bryant Uneeda K. , Puschner Birgit
Published: March 2014

Two separate incidents of monensin exposure in horses resulting in toxicosis provided insight into the diagnostic value and interpretive criteria of various biological samples. In case 1, 25 horses broke into a shed and ingested feed that was supplemented with 800 g/ton (880 µg/g) of monensin. Within 48 hr, 1 horse had died, 2 developed cardiac arrhythmias, lethargy, and recumbency, and another was euthanized due to severe deterioration. Minimal histologic lesions were noted in the horse that died peracutely, while another showed characteristic lesions of acute cardiomyocyte degeneration and necrosis. Stomach content, heart, liver, urine, and serum revealed various detectable concentrations of monensin in clinically affected and unaffected horses with known exposure. In case 2, a pastured horse had access to a mineral mix containing 1,600 g/ton (1,760 µg/g) of monensin. Within 48 hr, the horse became symptomatic and was euthanized because of severe respiratory distress. Histologic cardiac lesions were minimal but detectable amounts of monensin were found in blood, heart, liver, and stomach contents. In both cases, monensin toxicosis was confirmed with toxicological analysis. These cases demonstrate an overall lack of correlation of monensin concentrations in various biological samples with clinical outcome. However, serum, urine, blood, liver, heart, and stomach content can be tested to confirm exposure. More importantly, the consistently higher concentrations found in heart tissue suggest this is the most useful diagnostic specimen for postmortem confirmation of toxicosis in horses especially in cases in which associated feed cannot be tested for monensin or in cases with no histologic lesions.
Mammary diffuse fibroadenomatoid hyperplasia in water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): three cases
Authors: de Sant’Ana Fabiano J. F. , Carvalho Fausto C. , de O. Gamba Conrado , Cassali Geovanni D. , Riet-Correa Franklin , Schild Ana L.
Published: March 2014

The current report describes 3 rare cases of mammary diffuse fibroadenomatoid hyperplasia in water buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis). All of the animals were between 10 and 12 months of age. Grossly, the lesions consisted of severe diffuse swelling with homogeneous large masses in the udder. Surgical removal of the masses was curative. Microscopically, there was severe hyperplasia of the mammary epithelium and numerous well-differentiated and mildly pleomorphic acini and their associated ducts. Moderate proliferation of the fibrous connective tissue and the myoepithelial cells near the proliferating acini was also evident. The hyperplastic epithelial cells exhibited positive immunostaining for cytokeratin, estrogen receptors, and progesterone receptors. In addition, the myoepithelial cells displayed moderate positivity for alpha smooth muscle actin. Based on the clinical, morphologic, and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of mammary diffuse fibroadenomatoid hyperplasia with probable hormonal influence was made.
“I Think About Oprah”
Authors: Bell Ann V.
Published: March 2014

Health information influences an individual’s health outcomes. Indeed, researchers have found that communication inequalities contribute to health inequalities. We do not have a clear understanding of why and how the communication disparities exist, however, particularly the social forces behind such differences. The qualitative nature of this article reveals the nuances of health information seeking using the case of infertility. Through 58 in-depth interviews, I demonstrate how differences in social and cultural capital between women of low and high socioeconomic status (SES) result in different ways of learning about health. Women of high SES have access to support groups, physicians, and the Internet, whereas women of low SES do not discuss their health problems with their peers, and lack access to and distrust physicians. I explore how these differences in health information shape the illness experience. I conclude with policy implications.
Evaluation of Hospice Care by Family Members of Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Patients
Authors: Kirkendall Abbie , Holland Jason M. , Keene Jennifer R. , Luna Nora
Published: March 2014

The Hispanic older adult population is increasing rapidly and past research suggests that this demographic group underutilizes hospice services, highlighting the need to improve our understanding of their needs in end of life. This study relied upon information from the family evaluation of hospice care survey provided by 2980 caregivers, 152 of whom cared for a Hispanic patient and 2828 who cared for a non-Hispanic patient. Caregivers of Hispanic patients were more likely to report that hospice was inconsistent with the patient’s wishes, and that they received more attention than desired for emotional issues. Caregivers of Hispanic patients were also more likely to express that emotional/spiritual forms of support were insufficient. Similar levels of satisfaction were reported for caregivers of Hispanics and non-Hispanics regarding dignity/respect, information received, care coordination, and overall satisfaction.
Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Abadi Uri , Yarchovsky-Dolberg Osnat , Ellis Martin H.
Published: March 2014

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a rare autoimmune disorder with an incidence of 3 to 5 per 100 000 individuals. In children, the disease is self-limited and is most commonly virus related (acute ITP) whereas in adults, the disease is typically chronic. The age distribution of adult ITP displays 2 peaks; the first in younger adults aged 18 to 40 with a female predominance and the second in people aged older than 60 with men and women affected equally. Our approach to ITP has evolved over the past several years: there has been a change in nomenclature and ITP now denotes “immune thrombocytopenia” (the “I” no longer denoting “idiopathic”) and “purpura” no longer features in the name of the disease; new insights into the pathogenesis of ITP have revealed the importance of impaired megakaryocytopoiesis in the condition; underlying mechanisms of secondary ITP have been elucidated and finally novel thrombopoietic agents have been shown to be effective in the treatment of ITP in randomized clinical trials. In this article, we review important recent advances in the pathogenesis and treatment of ITP.
Examining the Internal Validity and Statistical Precision of the Comparative Interrupted Time Series Design by Comparison With a Randomized Experiment
Authors: St.Clair Travis , Cook Thomas D. , Hallberg Kelly
Published: March 2014

Although evaluators often use an interrupted time series (ITS) design to test hypotheses about program effects, there are few empirical tests of the design’s validity. We take a randomized experiment on an educational topic and compare its effects to those from a comparative ITS (CITS) design that uses the same treatment group as the experiment but a nonequivalent comparison group that is assessed at six time points before treatment. We estimate program effects with and without matching of the comparison schools, and we also systematically vary the number of pretest time points in the analysis. CITS designs produce impact estimates that are extremely close to the experimental benchmarks and, as implemented here, do so equally well with and without matching. Adding time points provides an advantage so long as the pretest trend differences in the treatment and comparison groups are correctly modeled. Otherwise, more time points can increase bias.
Experimental study on skid damage of cylindrical roller bearing considering thermal effect
Authors: Li Junning , Chen Wei , Xie Youbai
Published: March 2014

A skid damage test rig was developed to simulate the dynamic contact between bearing ring and roller, to reveal the reason why the skid damage of roller bearing sometimes occurs and/or sometimes does not under high-speed and light-load condition at the same slip rate. The mechanism of skid damage to a roller bearing was examined by changing experimental conditions such as the surface topography, slip, inner ring speed, radial load and lubrication. An orthogonal experiment design was used, and the results showed that the slip affected the temperature rise the most followed by the radial load, lubrication and inner ring speed. The relationship between the temperature rise and skid damage was examined; skid damage occurred when the temperature increased rapidly and continually, and non-skid damage occurred when the temperature remained constant or increased very slowly. The temperature varied directly with the inner ring speed. Skid damage is mostly thermal failure where metal-to-metal contact occurs in the contact area of the bearing ring and roller after the oil film is broken; this can result in a sharp temperature rise and material transfer, and the damage can quickly extend to the whole contact area. The preliminary test result showed that the unbalanced loading and muddy oil lubrication are prone to accelerate the damage process and intensify the degree of skid damage.
Adverse Histopathology and Imaging Findings in Reduction Mammaplasty Day-surgery Patients
Authors: Merkkola-von Schantz P. , Jahkola T. , Carpelan A. , Krogerus L. , Hukkinen K. , Kauhanen S.
Published: March 2014

Background and Aims:

Reduction mammaplasty is a popular procedure in plastic surgery. Occasionally, occult invasive breast carcinoma or findings demonstrating increased risk of breast cancer occur in reduction mammaplasty specimens. The incidences have been studied elsewhere, but in Finland, the data on this subject are lacking. Our aim was to analyze the incidence of occult invasive and in situ carcinoma and benign breast disease causing increased risk of breast cancer in reduction mammaplasty specimens. We also analyzed preoperative mammograms and ultrasound images and compared findings with reduction mammaplasty specimens.

Material and Methods:

We performed a retrospective study of 100 women who underwent reduction mammaplasty during 1 January 2007 to 30 April 2009 in Jorvi Hospital day-surgery unit. Demographic data, findings in preoperative imaging, pathology reports, postoperative follow-up, and retrospective reanalysis of preoperative imaging were recorded.

Results:

Histological abnormality occurred in 14.6% of the patients. In situ carcinoma was diagnosed in 4.5% of the patients, and findings demonstrating increased risk of breast cancer were diagnosed in 13.5% of the patients. More than one lesion demonstrating increased risk of breast cancer was diagnosed in 4.5% of the patients. No invasive carcinoma occurred. Preoperative mammogram was performed for the majority (94.0%) of the patients.

Conclusions:

We detected a considerable amount of findings in reduction mammaplasty specimens with prognostic value with regard to future breast cancer risk. We recommend histological analysis for reduction mammaplasty specimens and focus attention on systematically performed preoperative imaging.