bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Topology and Tissue Mechanics in Remora Attachment
Authors: Culler Michael , Ledford Keri A. , Nadler Jason H.
Published: February 2014

Remora fish are capable of fast, reversible and reliable adhesion to a wide variety of both natural and artificial marine hosts through a uniquely evolved dorsal pad. This adhesion is partially attributed to suction, which requires a robust seal between the pad interior and the ambient environment. Understanding the behavior of remora adhesion based on measurable surface parameters and material properties is a critical step when creating artificial, bio-inspired devices. In this work, structural and fluid finite element models (FEM) based on a simplified “unit cell” geometry were developed to predict the behavior of the seal with respect to host/remora surface topology and tissue material properties.
Capacidade produtiva e progresso genético de pinhão-manso
Authors: Borges Catiele Vieira , Ferreira Fábio Medeiros , Rocha Rodrigo Barros , Santos Adriano Ramos dos , Laviola Bruno Galvêas
Published: February 2014

O objetivo do presente estudo foi estimar parâmetros genéticos e avaliar o progresso genético dos principais componentes da produção de grãos do pinhão-manso. Para isso, foram avaliadas quatro procedências de pinhão-manso em ensaio de blocos ao acaso, utilizando três repetições de 36 plantas, em espaçamento de 3x2m. O número de cachos por planta foi uma das características mais importantes para a produção de grãos. A uniformidade de maturação dos frutos apresentou efeito ambiental predominante, sendo bastante limitado o progresso genético a ser obtido com a seleção baseada nesta característica. O progresso genético estimado com a seleção de procedências pode ser considerado pequeno: 11%, 7% e 18% no 1°, 2° e 3° anos pós-plantio, respectivamente. A seleção dos 30 melhores indivíduos dentro de procedências permitiu a obtenção de ganhos de 29%. O melhoramento dessa oleaginosa deve considerar estratégias de geração de variabilidade, como a recombinação de indivíduos divergentes e introdução de novos acessos.
Cultivo de Stenachaenium megapotamicum em diferentes regimes de irrigação
Authors: Noya Mariana Grassi , Cuquel Francine Lorena , Armindo Robson André , Souza Jorge Luiz Moretti de
Published: February 2014

O uso racional da água para a irrigação de jardins é uma preocupação constante em face de seu desperdício, pois pesquisas têm demonstrado que ela corresponde de 40 a 70% do consumo doméstico. Uma das estratégias empregadas para evitar este desperdício é o plantio de jardins com plantas resistentes à deficiência hídrica. Nesta pesquisa, avaliou-se o crescimento de Stenachaenium megapotamicum, uma planta subarbustiva, com potencial ornamental, nativa da Região do Sul do Brasil, que foi cultivada sob diferentes regimes de irrigação. Foram efetuados dois experimentos: a) na primavera, as plantas foram mantidas sob três turnos de rega: diário, a cada dois dias e a cada três dias; b) no outono/ inverno, as plantas foram mantidas sob quatro turnos de rega: diário, cada cinco, sete e nove dias. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que S. megapotamicum é uma planta anual de verão adequada para projetos de paisagismo, focando no uso eficiente da água.
Aveia preta e azevém anual colhidos por interceptação de luz ou intervalo fixo de tempo em sistemas integrados de agricultura e pecuária no Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Tonato Felipe , Pedreira Bruno Carneiro e , Pedreira Carlos Guilherme Silveira , Pequeno Diego Noleto Luz
Published: February 2014

Objetivou-se caracterizar o potencial produtivo, a distribuição mensal, a composição morfológica e botânica da forragem de aveia preta e de azevém anual submetidos a estratégias de manejo de corte no estado de São Paulo. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, com tratamentos correspondendo a combinações entre formas de cultivo (aveia e azevém exclusivos ou combinados) e estratégias de colheita (cortes com 95% de interceptação de luz (IL) ou intervalo FIXO de 30 dias de rebrotação), em arranjo fatorial com três repetições. Os estandes colhidos por IL acumularam 1580kg MS ha-1 corte-1, e os por FIXO 2020kg de MS ha-1 corte-1. A proporção de folhas foi maior no azevém (70%), seguido do cultivo combinado (64%) e depois pela aveia (52%). Entre os manejos, a IL resultou em maiores proporções de folha e menor proporção de colmos que o FIXO. A proporção de azevém foi de 64%, sob o manejo por IL, e 70% no manejo por descanso FIXO. Ao longo do tempo, ocorreu a substituição da aveia pelo azevém na composição do dossel combinado. Ambas as estratégias de manejo podem ser adotadas para essas forrageiras de inverno em sistemas de integração agricultura e pecuária, com vantagem para o azevém.
Modificação da composição química de farinhas integrais de grãos de amaranto após a aplicação de diferentes tratamentos térmicos
Authors: Bianchini Maria das Graças de Assis , Beleia Adelaide Del Pino , Bianchini Aloisio
Published: February 2014

O emprego do calor é uma alternativa utilizada com a finalidade de garantir a inocuidade, melhorar características sensoriais e aumentar a digestibilidade dos vegetais, tornando-os aptos ao consumo de crianças. No entanto, condições severas de calor podem alterar a sua composição nutricional. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do calor seco ou úmido, antes da moagem, na composição química de farinhas integrais de grãos de amaranto (Amaranthus cruentus). As farinhas foram produzidas de grãos integrais in natura (FIAI), tostados (FIAT), cozidos e secos (FIAC) e pipocados (FIAP). Os tratamentos térmicos aplicados aos grãos não afetaram os teores de minerais das farinhas, com exceção do Ca e Cu, mas elevaram os teores de lipídios (12 a 19%) e de fibra solúvel (18 a 35%) e reduziram de fibra insolúvel (5,8 a 8,5%) em comparação com à in natura. Os aminoácidos sulfurados foram os primeiros limitantes na FIAI, para idades de 1 a 10 anos e o pipocamento reduziu a qualidade aminoacídica do grão, que passou a ser limitante, também, em lisina para todas as idades. A tostagem e a cocção melhoraram o balanço aminoacídico das farinhas e os aminoácidos sulfurados deixaram de ser limitantes para maiores de três anos.
Abrupt transition of mesic grassland to shrubland: evidence for thresholds, alternative attractors, and regime shifts
Authors: Ratajczak Zak , Nippert Jesse B. , Ocheltree Troy W.
Published: February 2014

Ecosystems with alternative attractors are susceptible to abrupt regime shifts that are often difficult to predict and reverse. In this study, we quantify multiple system dynamics to determine whether the transition of mesic grassland to shrubland, a widespread phenomenon, represents a linear reversible process, a nonlinear but reversible threshold process, or a transition between alternative attractors that is nonlinear and prone to hysteresis. Using a 28‐yr data set with annual resolution and extensive spatial replication, we found that shrub cover is correlated with distinct thresholds of fire and C4 grass cover, resulting in temporal bimodality of shrub cover and abrupt shifts of shrub cover despite gradual changes in grass cover. These abrupt increases in shrub cover are the most rapid ever reported in grasslands, and illustrate internal thresholds that separate grasslands and shrublands. Nonlinear transitions from low to high shrub cover were also closely associated with positive feedback mechanisms that alter fire and competition (r2 = 0.65), suggesting that grasslands and shrublands could show hysteresis, and by definition exist as alternative attractors. Thus, the response of this ecosystem to anthropogenic activity should tend to be rapid, nonlinear, and perhaps difficult to reverse. Regime shifts in this mesic grassland were predictable: we found that grassland and shrubland attractors were differentiated by critical thresholds of ∼50–70% grass cover, 5–10% shrub cover, and a fire return interval of ∼3 yr. These thresholds may provide adaptive potential for managing nonlinear behavior in socio‐ecological systems in a changing environment.
Repeated patterns of trait divergence between closely related dominant and subordinate bird species
Authors: Freshwater Cameron , Ghalambor Cameron K. , Martin Paul R.
Published: February 2014

Ecologically similar species often compete aggressively for shared resources. These interactions are frequently asymmetric, with one species behaviorally dominant to another and excluding it from preferred resources. Despite the potential importance of this type of interference competition as a source of selection, we know little about patterns of trait divergence between dominant and subordinate species. We compiled published data on phylogenetically independent, closely related species of North American birds where one species was consistently dominant in aggressive interactions with a congeneric species. We then compared the body size, breeding phenology, life history, ecological breadth, and biogeography of these species. After accounting for body size and phylogeny, we found repeated patterns of trait divergence between subordinate and dominant species within genera. Subordinate species that migrated seasonally arrived 4–7 days later than dominants on their sympatric breeding grounds, and both resident and migratory subordinates initiated breeding 7–8 days later than their dominant, sympatric congeners. Subordinate species had a 5.2% higher annual adult mortality rate and laid eggs that were 0.02 g heavier for their body mass. Dominant and subordinate species used a similar number of different foods, foraging behaviors, nest sites, and habitats, but subordinates were more specialized in their foraging behaviors compared with closely related dominant species. The breeding and wintering ranges of subordinate species were 571 km farther apart than the ranges of dominant species, suggesting that subordinate species migrate greater distances. Range sizes and latitudinal distributions did not consistently differ, although subordinate species tended to breed farther north or winter farther south. These results are consistent with dominant species directly influencing the ecological strategies of subordinate species (via plastic or genetically based changes), either by restricting their access to resources or simply through aggression. Alternatively, these ecological traits may covary with patterns of behavioral dominance, with no direct consequences of interactions. Regardless of the mechanism, recognizing that the relative position of a species within a dominance hierarchy is correlated with a suite of other ecological and fitness related traits has far‐reaching implications for the mechanisms underlying species distributions and the structure of biological assemblages.
Will Disclosure of Friendship Ties between Directors and CEOs Yield Perverse Effects?
Authors: Rose Jacob M. , Rose Anna M. , Norman Carolyn Strand , Mazza Cheri R.
Published: February 2014

Our paper examines three related questions: Will directors who have friendship ties with the CEO manage earnings to benefit the CEO in the short term while potentially sacrificing the welfare of the company in the long term? Will public disclosure of friendship ties mitigate or exacerbate such behavior, and will disclosure of friendship ties influence investors' perceptions of director decisions? We conduct an experiment involving 56 active and experienced corporate directors from U.S. firms and a second experiment with M.B.A. students. We find that friendship ties caused directors to be more willing to approve reductions to research and development (R&D) expenses that cause earnings to rise enough to meet the CEO's minimum bonus target more often than when the directors and CEO were not friends. However, disclosing friendship ties resulted in even greater reductions in R&D expenses and higher CEO bonuses than not disclosing friendship ties. In a second experiment, we find that shareholders were more likely to agree with directors' decisions to approve cuts to R&D when friendship ties were disclosed. These findings have potentially important implications for corporate governance because they suggest that friendship ties between the CEO and board members can impair the directors' independence and objectivity, and that disclosure of the relationships can worsen this effect.
Umbilical Artery Thrombosis is a Rare but Clinically Important Finding: A Series of 7 Cases with Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Shilling Christine , Walsh Colin , Downey Paul , Mooney Eoghan
Published: February 2014

Umbilical artery thrombosis is a rare occurrence and is associated with poor neonatal outcomes. We present a series of 7 cases occurring over a 13-year period. The National Maternity Hospital is a tertiary referral center with approximately 10 000 births per annum. Cases were identified by a keyword search on the laboratory computer system. Seven cases were retrieved over a 13-year period (from an estimated 116 000 births): 5 cases from 7306 placentas and 2 cases from 1174 autopsies performed. Only cases with isolated umbilical artery thrombosis were included in the study. Placental histology from all cases was examined, placental gross findings were recorded, and clinical information and Doppler findings were obtained. Two infants were stillborn, and an additional 3 of the 7 cases were small for dates. All liveborn infants had a complicated neonatal course: 1 infant had a caudate infarction, 1 was born with partial acrania and schizencephaly, and 1 had a prolonged intensive care unit admission for low birth weight and jaundice. One case had absent end diastolic flow on Doppler ultrasound. Three cases had a cord diameter narrower than that expected for gestational age. All cases showed evidence of placental hypoperfusion. Umbilical artery thrombosis is a rare occurrence and carries a poor prognosis.
Interrelations Between Tourism Offer and Tourism Demand in the Case of Farm Tourism in Slovenia
Authors: Cigale Dejan , Lampič Barbara , Potočnik-Slavič Irma
Published: February 2014

In Slovenia, farm tourism is among the most important supplementary activities on farm. On the other hand, its role within tourism sector is rather modest. The paper approaches the phenomenon of farm tourism from tourism supply and demand perspectives. Employed qualitative methods involved farm tourism holders and potential tourists on farm. The results have pointed out that the occurrence of tourist farms is primarily the result of farmers' needs and opportunities, and only on the second place of expressed demand of tourism market. Farm tourism supply and demand factors are interrelated in a rather complex way. Supply is only selectively influenced by (perceived) demand since farm tourism providers stick to extant idea/image of farm tourism and they are not putting it in question. In this way they also affect tourism demand since they shape a specific construct/image of farm tourism which attracts only some types of tourists.
The risk to human health related to disposal of animal wastes to soil — microbiological and parasitical aspects
Authors: Kachnič J. , Sasáková N. , Papajová I. , Veszelits Laktičová K. , Hromada R. , Harkabus J. , Ondrašovičová S. , Papaj J.
Published: February 2014

The study was conducted to investigate the microbiological and parasitical risk related to the disposal of animal manure to soil by storage of raw pig slurry at temperatures 4 °C, 20 °C and 42 °C for 115 days. Plate counts of Salmonella typhimurium and number of devitalized non-embryonated model Ascaris suum eggs were determined on days 0, 7, 12, 22, 32, 40, 55, 90 and 115 of storage. At the same intervals level of selected physico-chemical parameters were determined. Microbiological examination showed that S. typhimurium survived in the slurry for less than 115 days at 4 °C and less than 90 days at 20 °C and 42 °C. Devitalization of A. suum eggs increased with temperature and time of storage, but complete devitalization was not achieved even after 115 days at 42 °C. Physico-chemical parameters showed changes related to decomposition processes, but did not allow us to draw definite conclusion regarding their influence on devitalization of pathogens. The results indicate potential risk to human food chain that can be prevented by strict observation of legislative provisions and appropriate treatment of animal manure.
Potential association between trematode infections and development of pregnancy toxaemia in sheep
Authors: Papadopoulos E. , Mavrogianni V. , Mitsoura A. , Ptochos S. , Spanos S. , Fthenakis G.
Published: February 2014

Objective of the work was to study a potential association between trematode infections in pregnant ewes and concentrations β-hydroxybutyrate, which is a ketone body found in animals with pregnancy toxaemia. After administration of a long-acting nematocide, 80 pregnant sheep, infected with trematodes, were allocated as follows; primigravidae ewes in group P-A remained untreated and in group P-B were given netobimin; multigravidae ewes in group M-A remained untreated, in group M-B were given netobimin and in group M-C were given rafoxanide. We collected faecal samples for trematode epg counting and blood samples for measurement of β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations. Mean faecal epg counts of D. dendriticum and F. hepatica decreased significantly after netobimin administration; mean faecal epg counts of F. hepatica, but not of D. dendriticum, decreased significantly after rafoxanide administration. Between P-A and P-B, the difference in mean blood β-hydroxybutyrate concentrations was significant (P = 0.036) immediately after lambing. Between M-A or M-C and M-B, it was significant (P ≤ 0.002) 28 days after trematocide administration and immediately after lambing; between M-A and M-C, no significant difference was evident. Immediately after lambing, mean blood β-hydroxybutyrate concentration in primiparous/multiparous ewes with Dicrocoelium faecal output ≤150 epg was 0.21/0.64 mmol L−1, respectively, and in primiparous/multiparous ewes with Dicrocoelium faecal output >150 epg was 0.40/0.93 mmol L−1, respectively (P = 0.704/<0.001, respectively). Mean blood β-hydroxybutyrate concentration in group P-C/M-C ewes with Fasciola faecal output of <16/<30 epg was 0.47/0.68 mmol L−1, respectively; that in group P-C/M-C ewes with Fasciola faecal output of ≥16/≥30 epg was 0.56/0.85 mmol L−1, respectively (P = 0.620/0.278, respectively). The results indicate that more trematode-infected adult ewes were found to have increased β-hydroxybutyrate blood concentrations and point out to a potential role of liver trematode infections in predisposing adult ewes to pregnancy toxaemia.
Wardium mackoifusa sp. n. (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), a parasite of the little gull (Larus minutus Pall.) from Ukraine
Authors: Greben O. , Kornyushin V.
Published: February 2014

The new cyclophyllidian species Wardium mackoifusa sp. n. (Aploparksidae Mayhew 1925), in the little gull (Larus minutus Pall.) from Ukraine is described. The species is characterized by 10 aploparaksoid hooks, each 13–15 μm long. It noticeably differs from all of the species of this genus by the shape and the armament of the cirrus and the presence of polar delicate filaments on the embryophore of eggs.
Treatment failure of ivermectin for Oxyuris equi in naturally infected ponies in Czech Republic
Authors: Scháňková Š. , Maršálek M. , Wagnerová P. , Lukešová D. , Starostová L. , Jankovská I. , Čadková Z. , Kudrnáčová M. , Brožová A. , Truněčková J. , Langrová I.
Published: February 2014

Nine ponies (20 months of age) with naturally acquired cyathostome and pinworm infections were treated orally with ivermectin at a dosage of 400 μg /kg. Ivermectin was highly effective on the cyathostome infection. However, adult Oxyuris equi were present in six horses. In recent years, anthelmintic treatment with macrocyclic lactones have not appeared to deliver the expected efficacy against equine pinworms (Oxyuris equi) in the USA. This is the first European study to demonstrate anthelmintic resistance in Oxyuris equi to macrocyclic lactones in naturally infected ponies (Czech Republic).
The Continuum of Care for Individuals With Lifelong Disabilities: Role of the Physical Therapist
Authors: Orlin Margo N. , Cicirello Nancy A. , O'Donnell Anne E. , Doty Antonette K.
Published: February 2014

Many individuals with lifelong disabilities (LLDs) of childhood onset are living longer, participating in adult roles, and seeking comprehensive health care services, including physical therapy, with greater frequency than in the past. Individuals with LLDs have the same goals of health and wellness as those without disabilities. Aging with a chronic LLD is not yet well understood; however, impairments such as pain, fatigue, and osteoporosis often present earlier than in adults who are aging typically. People with LLDs, especially those living with developmental disabilities such as cerebral palsy, myelomeningocele, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, frequently have complex and multiple body system impairments and functional limitations that can: (1) be the cause of numerous and varied secondary conditions, (2) limit overall earning power, (3) diminish insurance coverage, and (4) create unique challenges for accessing health care. Collaboration between adult and pediatric practitioners is encouraged to facilitate smooth transitions to health practitioners, including physical therapists. A collaborative client-centered emphasis to support the transition to adult-oriented facilities and promote strategies to increase accessibility should become standard parts of examination, goal setting, and intervention. This perspective article identifies barriers individuals with selected LLDs experience in accessing health care, including physical therapy. Strategies are suggested, including establishment of niche practices, physical accessibility improvement, and inclusion of more specific curriculum content in professional (entry-level) doctorate physical therapy schools.
Relationships Among Manual Body Functions, Manual Capacity, and Bimanual Performance Using the Prosthetic Upper Extremity Functional Index in Children With Congenital Hand Differences
Authors: Ardon Monique S. , Janssen Wim G.M. , Hovius Steven E.R. , Stam Henk J. , Murawska Magdalena , Roebroeck Marij E. , Selles Ruud W.
Published: February 2014

Background

Most surgical techniques intervene at the level of body functions of the upper limb, aiming to improve manual capacity and activity performance. However, the nature of the relationships among these levels of functioning and evidence for hand function variables predicting performance have scarcely been investigated.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to assess aspects of hand function and manual capacity that influence bimanual performance in children with congenital hand differences (CHDs), ranging from surgically corrected polydactyly or syndactyly to radial dysplasia. A secondary aim was to assess whether the number of items on the Prosthetic Upper Extremity Functional Index (PUFI) can be reduced without losing information on bimanual performance in this population.

Design

A cross-sectional design was used.

Methods

One hundred six 10- to 14-year-old children with CHD participated in the study, which was conducted in a university hospital's outpatient clinic. Bimanual performance was evaluated with child self-reports on an adapted version of the PUFI, calculating ease of performance and actual use of the affected hand. Additionally, hand function and manual capacity were assessed.

Results

The median score on ease of performance was high, and, on average, the children used their affected hand actively in 97% of all activities. Manual capacity of the nondominant hand and lateral pinch strength of the dominant hand predicted attainment of maximum PUFI scores. Nonmaximum PUFI scores were predicted by opposition strength of the nondominant hand and lateral pinch strength of the dominant hand. In addition, in this patient group, only 6 items of the PUFI explained all variance in PUFI scores.

Limitations

The generalizability of the results is limited by the carefully selected age range. Second, the cross-sectional design of the study limits statements on causality on the relationships found.

Conclusion

Children with a CHD generally have good bimanual performance and, on average, perform activities with active use of the affected hand. Therapy directed toward increasing manual capacity and finger muscle strength might assist in improving bimanual performance in children with CHD. Furthermore, the number of items on the PUFI could be reduced from 38 to 6 items in children with CHD.
Associations Between Cognitive and Gait Performance During Single- and Dual-Task Walking in People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Stegemöller Elizabeth L. , Wilson Jonathan P. , Hazamy Audrey , Shelley Mack C. , Okun Michael S. , Altmann Lori J.P. , Hass Chris J.
Published: February 2014

Background

Cognitive impairments in Parkinson disease (PD) manifest as deficits in speed of processing, working memory, and executive function and attention abilities. The gait impairment in PD is well documented to include reduced speed, shortened step lengths, and increased step-to-step variability. However, there is a paucity of research examining the relationship between overground walking and cognitive performance in people with PD.

Objective

This study sought to examine the relationship between both the mean and variability of gait spatiotemporal parameters and cognitive performance across a broad range of cognitive domains.

Design

A cross-sectional design was used.

Methods

Thirty-five participants with no dementia and diagnosed with idiopathic PD completed a battery of 12 cognitive tests that yielded 3 orthogonal factors: processing speed, working memory, and executive function and attention. Participants completed 10 trials of overground walking (single-task walking) and 5 trials of overground walking while counting backward by 3's (dual-task walking).

Results

All gait measures were impaired by the dual task. Cognitive processing speed correlated with stride length and walking speed. Executive function correlated with step width variability. There were no significant associations with working memory. Regression models relating speed of processing to gait spatiotemporal variables revealed that including dual-task costs in the model significantly improved the fit of the model.

Limitations

Participants with PD were tested only in the on-medication state.

Conclusions

Different characteristics of gait are related to distinct types of cognitive processing, which may be differentially affected by dual-task walking due to the pathology of PD.
Fatigue After Liver Transplantation: Effects of a Rehabilitation Program Including Exercise Training and Physical Activity Counseling
Authors: van den Berg-Emons Rita J.G. , van Ginneken Berbke T.J. , Nooijen Carla F.J. , Metselaar Herold J. , Tilanus Huug W. , Kazemier Geert , Stam Henk J.
Published: February 2014

Background

It is hypothesized that increasing physical fitness and daily physical activity can lead to a reduction in fatigue. However, standard medical care following liver transplantation seldom includes rehabilitation that focuses on physical fitness and physical activity.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore whether a rehabilitation program can reduce fatigue in recipients of liver transplants. Furthermore, effects on physical fitness, physical activity, and cardiovascular risk were studied, and adherence, satisfaction, and adverse events were assessed.

Design

This was an uncontrolled intervention study.

Setting

The study took place in an outpatient rehabilitation clinic.

Patients

Eighteen recipients of a liver transplant who were fatigued participated in a 12-week rehabilitation program including physical exercise training and counseling on physical activity. The primary outcome measure was fatigue. Other outcome measures were: aerobic capacity, muscle strength, body fat, daily physical activity, lipid profile, and glycemic control. All measurements were performed before and after the rehabilitation program. Adherence, satisfaction, and adverse events were registered.

Results

After the program, participants were significantly less fatigued, and the percentage of individuals with severe fatigue was 22% to 53% lower than before the program. In addition, aerobic capacity and knee flexion strength were significantly higher, and body fat was significantly lower after the program. Participants were able to perform physical exercise at the target training intensity, no adverse events were registered, and attendance (93%) and mean patient satisfaction (8.5 out of 10, range=7–10) were high.

Limitations

No control group was used in the study.

Conclusions

A rehabilitation program consisting of exercise training and physical activity counseling is well tolerated and seems promising in reducing fatigue and improving fitness among recipients of liver transplants.
Health state utility of patients with single-level cervical degenerative disc disease: comparison of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with cervical disc arthroplasty
Authors: Qureshi Sheeraz , Goz Vadim , McAnany Steven , Cho Samuel K. , Hecht Andrew C. , Delamarter Rick B. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: February 2014

Object

Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) of medical interventions has become increasingly relevant to the discussion of optimization of care. The use of utility scales in CEA permits a quantitative assessment of effectiveness of a given intervention. There are no published utility values for degenerative disc disease (DDD) of the cervical spine, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), or cervical disc replacement (CDR). The purpose of this study was to define health utility values for those health states.

Methods

The 36-Item Short Form Health Survey data from the ProDisc-C investigational device exemption study were obtained for single-level DDD at baseline and 24 months postoperatively after ACDF or CDR procedures. Patients in the original study were randomized to either ACDF or CDR. Utilizing a commercially available Short Form–6 dimensions program, utility scores were calculated for each health state using a set of parametric preference weights obtained from a sample of the general population using the recognized valuation technique of standard gamble.

Results

The baseline health state utility (HSU) value for a patient with single-level DDD was 0.54 in both the ACDF and CDR groups. Postoperative changes in HSU values were seen in both intervention groups at 24 months. Cervical disc replacement had a HSU value of 0.72. Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion was found to have a postoperative utility state of 0.71. No statistically significant difference was found in the HSU for ACDF and CDR at 24 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

This study represents the first calculated HSU value for a patient with single-level cervical DDD. Additionally, 2 common treatment interventions for this disease state were assessed. Both treatments were found to have significant impact on the HSU values. These values are integral to future CEA of ACDF and CDR.
Kinetic analysis of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion supplemented with transarticular facet screws
Authors: Traynelis Vincent C. , Sherman Jonathan , Nottmeier Eric , Singh Vaneet , McGilvray Kirk , Puttlitz Christian M. , Leahy Patrick Devin
Published: February 2014

Object

The clinical success rates of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) procedures are substantially reduced as more cervical levels are included in the fusion procedure. One method that has been proposed as an adjunctive technique for multilevel ACDF is the placement of screws across the facet joints (“transfacet screws”). However, the biomechanical stability imparted by transfacet screw placement (either unilaterally or bilaterally) has not been reported. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the acute stability conferred by implementation of unilateral and bilateral transfacet screws to an ACDF construct.

Methods

Eight C2–T1 fresh-frozen human cadaveric spines (3 female and 5 male; mean age 50 years) were tested. Three different instrumentation variants were performed on cadaveric cervical spines across C4–7: 1) ACDF with an intervertebral spacer and standard plate/screw instrumentation; 2) ACDF with an intervertebral spacer and standard plate/screw instrumentation with unilateral facet screw placement; and 3) ACDF with an intervertebral spacer and standard plate/screw instrumentation with bilateral facet screw placement. Kinetic ranges of motion in flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation at 1.5 Nm were captured after each of these procedures and were statistically analyzed for significance.

Results

All 3 fixation scenarios produced statistically significant reductions (p < 0.05) in all 3 bending planes compared with the intact condition. The addition of a unilateral facet screw to the ACDF construct produced significant reductions at the C4–5 and C6–7 levels in lateral bending and axial rotation but not in flexion-extension motion. Bilateral facet screw fixation did not produce any statistically significant decreases in flexion-extension motion compared with unilateral facet screw fixation. However, in lateral bending, significant reductions at the C4–5 and C5–6 levels were observed with the addition of a second facet screw. The untreated, adjacent levels (C2–3, C3–4, and C7–1) did not demonstrate significant differences in range of motion.

Conclusions

The data demonstrated that adjunctive unilateral facet screw fixation to an ACDF construct provides significant gains in stability and should be considered a potential option for increasing the likelihood for obtaining a successful arthrodesis for multilevel ACDF procedures.
Pyrolysis of Trifluoromethane over Activated Carbon: Role of the Surface Oxygen Groups
Authors: Han Wenfeng , Jin Bibo , Chen Yuliang , Tang Haodong , and Ying Li , Liu Huazhang
Published: February 2014

The pyrolysis of CHF3 and CHClF2 over activated carbons was investigated at 823 K, GHSV of 1820 h–1 and pressure of 1 bar. To elucidate the mechanism, activated carbons were treated in H2 at 1123 K, HNO3 solution at 363 K, N2 at 873 K or supported with 4 wt% poly(acrylic acid sodium salt), respectively. The results confirm that following different treatments, the concentration of surface oxygen groups on activated carbons varies dramatically. These surface groups play important roles in the decomposition of CHF3 and the product profiles. It is suggested that carboxylic groups are responsible for the formation of CF3 and ultimately the product C2F6 which results from the coupling of CF3, while the interaction between CHF3 and hydroxyl or lactonic groups leads to the total destruction of CHF3 and production of CO and CO2. Pyrolysis of CHClF2 over activated carbon confirms that surface oxygen groups have no noticeable influence on the reactions of CF2. By contrast, a pure carbon surface is responsible for the disproportionation of CF2 and formation of CF3.
Climate-Related Hazards: A Method for Global Assessment of Urban and Rural Population Exposure to Cyclones, Droughts, and Floods
Authors: Christenson Elizabeth , Elliott Mark , Banerjee Ovik , Hamrick Laura , Bartram Jamie
Published: February 2014

Global climate change (GCC) has led to increased focus on the occurrence of, and preparation for, climate-related extremes and hazards. Population exposure, the relative likelihood that a person in a given location was exposed to a given hazard event(s) in a given period of time, was the outcome for this analysis. Our objectives were to develop a method for estimating the population exposure at the country level to the climate-related hazards cyclone, drought, and flood; develop a method that readily allows the addition of better datasets to an automated model; differentiate population exposure of urban and rural populations; and calculate and present the results of exposure scores and ranking of countries based on the country-wide, urban, and rural population exposures to cyclone, drought, and flood. Gridded global datasets on cyclone, drought and flood occurrence as well as population density were combined and analysis was carried out using ArcGIS. Results presented include global maps of ranked country-level population exposure to cyclone, drought, flood and multiple hazards. Analyses by geography and human development index (HDI) are also included. The results and analyses of this exposure assessment have implications for country-level adaptation. It can also be used to help prioritize aid decisions and allocation of adaptation resources between countries and within a country. This model is designed to allow flexibility in applying cyclone, drought and flood exposure to a range of outcomes and adaptation measures.
miR-137: A New Player in Schizophrenia
Authors: Yin Jingwen , Lin Juda , Luo Xudong , Chen Yanyan , Li Zheng , Ma Guoda , Li Keshen
Published: February 2014

Schizophrenia is a complex genetic disease and characterized by affective, cognitive, neuromorphological, and molecular abnormalities that may have a neurodevelopmental origin. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical to neurodevelopment and adult neuronal processes by modulating the activity of multiple genes within biological networks. MiR-137 as a brain-enriched microRNA, plays important roles in regulating embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs) fate determination, neuronal proliferation and differentiation, and synaptic maturation. Its dysregulation causes changes in the gene expression regulation network of the nervous system, thus inducing mental disorders. Recently, miR-137 has been confirmed as a gene related to schizophrenia susceptibility. In the following review, we summarize the expression pattern, epigenetic regulation and functions of miR-137. A more complete picture of the miR-137, which is dysregulated in psychiatric illness, may improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying schizophrenia.
Expression of PHB2 in Rat Brain Cortex Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Xu Ting , Fan Xinjuan , Tan Yuanyuan , Yue Ying , Chen Weijie , Gu Xingxing
Published: February 2014

Prohibitin2 (PHB2) is a ubiquitous, evolutionarily strongly conserved protein. It is one of the components of the prohibitin complex, which comprises two highly homologous subunits, PHB1 and PHB2. PHB2 is present in various cellular compartments including the nucleus and mitochondria. Recent studies have identified PHB2 as a multifunctional protein that controls cell proliferation, apoptosis, cristae morphogenesis and the functional integrity of mitochondria. However its distribution and function in the central nervous system (CNS) are not well understood. In this study, we examined PHB2 expression and cellular localization in rats after acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Western Blot analysis showed PHB2 level was significantly enhanced at five days after injury compared to control, and then declined during the following days. The protein expression of PHB2 was further analyzed by immunohistochemistry. In comparison to contralateral cerebral cortex, we observed a highly significant accumulation of PHB2 at the ipsilateral brain. Immunofluorescence double-labeling showed that PHB2 was co-expressed with NeuN, GFAP. Besides, PHB2 also colocalized with activated caspase-3 and PCNA. To further investigate the function of PHB2, primary cultured astrocytes and the neuronal cell line PC12 were employed to establish a proliferation model and an apoptosis model, respectively, to simulate the cell activity after TBI to a certain degree. Knocking down PHB2 by siRNA partly increased the apoptosis level of PC12 stimulated by H2O2. While the PHB2 was interrupted by siRNA, the proliferation level of primary cultured astrocytes was inhibited notably than that in the control group. Together with our data, we hypothesized that PHB2 might play an important role in CNS pathophysiology after TBI.
The Glutathione Peroxidase Gene Family in Thellungiella salsuginea: Genome-Wide Identification, Classification, and Gene and Protein Expression Analysis under Stress Conditions
Authors: Gao Fei , Chen Jing , Ma Tingting , Li Huayun , Wang Ning , Li Zhanglei , Zhang Zichen , Zhou Yijun
Published: February 2014

Glutathione peroxidases (GPX) catalyze the reduction of H2O2 or organic hydroperoxides to water or corresponding alcohols using reduced glutathione, which plays an essential role in ROS (reactive oxygen species) homeostasis and stress signaling. Thellungiella salsuginea (Eutrema salsugineum), a relative of Arabidopsis thaliana, displays an extremely high level of tolerance to salt, drought, cold and oxidative stresses. The enzymatic antioxidant systems may contribute to the stress tolerance of T. salsuginea. In the present study, we aimed at understanding the roles of the antioxidant enzymes in T. salsuginea by focusing on the GPX family. We identified the eight GPX genes in T. salsuginea, and the structure of the N-terminal domains indicated their putative chloroplastic, mitochondrial and cytoplasmic location. The exon-intron organization of these genes exhibited a conserved pattern among plant GPX genes. Multiple environmental stresses and hormone response related cis-acting elements were predicted in the promoters of TsGPX genes. The gene and protein expression profiles of TsGPXs in response to high level of salinity and osmotic stresses, in leaves and roots of T. salsuginea were investigated using real-time RT-PCR and western blotting analysis. Our result showed that different members of the GPX gene family were coordinately regulated under specific environmental stress conditions, and supported the important roles of TsGPXs in salt and drought stress response in T. salsuginea.
C2-Ceramide Induces Cell Death and Protective Autophagy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zhu Wenyuan , Wang Xinhua , Zhou Yi , Wang Huiming
Published: February 2014

Ceramides are second messengers involved in several intracellular processes in cancer cells, amongst others. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of C2-ceramide (C2-Cer; N-acetyl-D-sphingosine) by investigating cell death and autophagy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells. C2-Cer showed concentration-dependent cytotoxicity in HN4 and HN30 cell lines. It simultaneously induced caspase-3-independent apoptosis and programmed necrosis. C2-Cer markedly increased the expression level of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3B (LC3B) type II associated with protective autophagy. An autophagy inhibitor enhanced C2-Cer-mediated cytotoxicity, while a programmed-necrosis inhibitor produced the opposite effect. Furthermore, C2-Cer up-regulated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, but down-regulated its downstream substrate phospho-mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) during the autophagy process. These results suggested that C2-Cer exerts anti-tumor effects by inducing programmed apoptosis and necrosis in HNSCC, and these cytotoxic effects are enhanced by an autophagy inhibitor.
Setting the Stage for Habitable Planets
Authors: Gonzalez Guillermo
Published: February 2014

Our understanding of the processes that are relevant to the formation and maintenance of habitable planetary systems is advancing at a rapid pace, both from observation and theory. The present review focuses on recent research that bears on this topic and includes discussions of processes occurring in astrophysical, geophysical and climatic contexts, as well as the temporal evolution of planetary habitability. Special attention is given to recent observations of exoplanets and their host stars and the theories proposed to explain the observed trends. Recent theories about the early evolution of the Solar System and how they relate to its habitability are also summarized. Unresolved issues requiring additional research are pointed out, and a framework is provided for estimating the number of habitable planets in the Universe.
Tanjungides A and B: New Antitumoral Bromoindole Derived Compounds from Diazona cf formosa. Isolation and Total Synthesis
Authors: Murcia Carmen , Coello Laura , Fernández Rogelio , Martín María , Reyes Fernando , Francesch Andrés , Munt Simon , Cuevas Carmen
Published: February 2014

Tanjungides A (1) (Z isomer) and B (2) (E isomer), two novel dibrominated indole enamides, have been isolated from the tunicate Diazona cf formosa. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods including HRMS, and extensive 1D and 2D NMR. The stereochemistry of the cyclised cystine present in both compounds was determined by Marfey’s analysis after chemical degradation and hydrolysis. We also report the first total synthesis of these compounds using methyl 1H-indole-3-carboxylate as starting material and a linear sequence of 11 chemical steps. Tanjungides A and B exhibit significant cytotoxicity against human tumor cell lines.
A Tractable and Efficient One-Pot Synthesis of 5'-Azido-5'-deoxyribonucleosides
Authors: Peterson Theodore , Streamland Tobin , Awad Ahmed
Published: February 2014

Synthetic routes to 5'-azidoribonucleosides are reported for adenosine, cytidine, guanosine, and uridine, resulting in a widely applicable one-pot methodology for the synthesis of these and related compounds. The target compounds are appropriate as precursors in a variety of purposive syntheses, as the synthetic and therapeutic relevance of azido- and amino-modified nucleosides is expansive. Furthermore, in the conversion of alcohols to azides, these methods offer a tractable alternative to the Mitsunobu and other more difficult reactions.
Novel Lycorine Derivatives as Anticancer Agents: Synthesis and In Vitro Biological Evaluation
Authors: Wang Peng , Yuan Hui-Hui , Zhang Xue , Li Yun-Ping , Shang Lu-Qing , Yin Zheng
Published: February 2014

Lycorine, which is the most abundant alkaloid isolated from the Amaryllidaceae family of plants, reportedly exhibits promising anticancer activities. Herein, a series of novel lycorine derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro inhibitory activities against seven different cancer cell lines, including A549, HCT116, SK-OV-3, NCI-H460, K562, MCF-7 and HL-60. The results indicated that compounds bearing diverse amine substituents at the C-2 position demonstrated good anticancer activities. The selectivity towards different cancer cell lines of the synthesized derivatives is discussed.
Omega-3 Index and Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Von Schacky Clemens
Published: February 2014

Recent large trials with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the cardiovascular field did not demonstrate a beneficial effect in terms of reductions of clinical endpoints like total mortality, sudden cardiac arrest or other major adverse cardiac events. Pertinent guidelines do not uniformly recommend EPA + DHA for cardiac patients. In contrast, in epidemiologic findings, higher blood levels of EPA + DHA were consistently associated with a lower risk for the endpoints mentioned. Because of low biological and analytical variability, a standardized analytical procedure, a large database and for other reasons, blood levels of EPA + DHA are frequently assessed in erythrocytes, using the HS-Omega-3 Index® methodology. A low Omega-3 Index fulfills the current criteria for a novel cardiovascular risk factor. Neutral results of intervention trials can be explained by issues of bioavailability and trial design that surfaced after the trials were initiated. In the future, incorporating the Omega-3 Index into trial designs by recruiting participants with a low Omega-3 Index and treating them within a pre-specified target range (e.g., 8%–11%), will make more efficient trials possible and provide clearer answers to the questions asked than previously possible.