bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells − 1 (Trem-1) on blood neutrophils is associated with cytokine inducibility in human E. coli sepsis
Authors: van Bremen Tobias , Drömann Daniel , Luitjens Karin , Dodt Christoph , Dalhoff Klaus , Goldmann Torsten , Schaaf Bernhard
Published: February 2013

Background

Bacterial sepsis induced immunsuppression via antigen hyporesponsibility increases the risk of nosokomial infections and mortality. Pattern recognition receptors (PRR) might have a central role in the pathophysiology of hyporesponsibility.

Methods

In this study we evaluated in a human E. coli sepsis cohort, the role of PRR including TLR’s and Trem-1. Expression of Trem-1, TLR2, TLR4, CD14 and HLA-DR on blood monozytes and neutrophils were examined using flow cytometry from 22 patients with E. coli sepsis and 6 healthy controls. LPS and LTA stimulated TNF alpha, IL-10, IL-8 and IL-6 production was studied in a 24 h whole blood assay. Free cytokine serum concentration of TNF alpha, PCT and IP-10 were evaluated.

Results

We found a significant higher expression of Trem-1 and TLR-2 on monocytes and neutrophils in patients compared to healthy volunteers. TLR2 expression (p < 0.05) was higher and HLA-DR lower (p < 0.05) on monocytes of patients with severe sepsis compared to patients with simple sepsis. Trem-1 expression was tendentially higher (p = 0,07) on monocytes and lower on neutrophils of patients with severe sepsis. Trem-1 expression on neutrophils was associated with the IL-10 (LPS: r = 0,61, p < 0.02) and TNF-α inducibility (LPS: r = 0,78, p < 0,002). In addition Trem-1 expression on neutrophils shows a negative correlation to the serum levels of TNF alpha (r = −0,63; p < 0,005), IP-10 (r = −0,5; p < 0,035) and procalcitonin (r = −0,59; p < 0,007).

Conclusions

Patients with E. coli sepsis are characterized by an association of Trem-1 expression on blood neutrophils with cytokine inducibility. The TREM-1 pathway on neutrophils might play a role in producing an adequate inflammatory and bactericidal response in bacterial sepsis.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/4441869398748313
Treatment of rice straw hemicellulosic hydrolysates with advanced oxidative processes: a new and promising detoxification method to improve the bioconversion process
Authors: Silva João Paulo Alves , Carneiro Livia Melo , Roberto Inês Conceição
Published: February 2013

Background

The use of lignocellulosic constituents in biotechnological processes requires a selective separation of the main fractions (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin). During diluted acid hydrolysis for hemicellulose extraction, several toxic compounds are formed by the degradation of sugars and lignin, which have ability to inhibit microbial metabolism. Thus, the use of a detoxification step represents an important aspect to be considered for the improvement of fermentation processes from hydrolysates. In this paper, we evaluated the application of Advanced Oxidative Processes (AOPs) for the detoxification of rice straw hemicellulosic hydrolysate with the goal of improving ethanol bioproduction byPichia stipitisyeast. Aiming to reduce the toxicity of the hemicellulosic hydrolysate, different treatment conditions were analyzed. The treatments were carried out according to a Taguchi L16orthogonal array to evaluate the influence of Fe+2, H2O2, UV, O3and pH on the concentration of aromatic compounds and the fermentative process.

Results

The results showed that the AOPs were able to remove aromatic compounds (furan and phenolic compounds derived from lignin) without affecting the sugar concentration in the hydrolysate. Ozonation in alkaline medium (pH 8) in the presence of H2O2(treatment A3) or UV radiation (treatment A5) were the most effective for hydrolysate detoxification and had a positive effect on increasing the yeast fermentability of rice straw hemicellulose hydrolysate. Under these conditions, the higher removal of total phenols (above 40%), low molecular weight phenolic compounds (above 95%) and furans (above 52%) were observed. In addition, the ethanol volumetric productivity byP. stipitiswas increased in approximately twice in relation the untreated hydrolysate.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that AOPs are a promising methods to reduce toxicity and improve the fermentability of lignocellulosic hydrolysates.
Safe surgical technique for associated acetabular fractures
Authors: Suzuki Takashi , Smith Wade R , Mauffrey Cyril , Morgan Steven J
Published: February 2013

Associated acetabular fractures are challenging injuries to manage. The complex surgical approaches and the technical difficulty in achieving anatomical reduction imply that the learning curve to achieve high-quality care of patients with such challenging injuries is extremely steep. This first article in theJournal’s“Safe Surgical Technique” section presents the standard surgical care, in conjunction with intraoperative tips and tricks, for the safe management of all subgroups of associated acetabular fractures.
Identification of SNPs associated with variola virus virulence
Authors: Hoen Anne Gatewood , Gardner Shea N , Moore Jason H
Published: February 2013

Background

Decades after the eradication of smallpox, its etiological agent, variola virus (VARV), remains a threat as a potential bioweapon. Outbreaks of smallpox around the time of the global eradication effort exhibited variable case fatality rates (CFRs), likely attributable in part to complex viral genetic determinants of smallpox virulence. We aimed to identify genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with CFR. We evaluated unadjusted and outbreak geographic location-adjusted models of single SNPs and two- and three-way interactions between SNPs.

Findings

Using the data mining approach multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR), we identified five VARV SNPs in models significantly associated with CFR. The top performing unadjusted model and adjusted models both revealed the same two-way gene-gene interaction. We discuss the biological plausibility of the influence of the SNPs identified these and other significant models on the strain-specific virulence of VARV.

Conclusions

We have identified genetic loci in the VARV genome that are statistically associated with VARV virulence as measured by CFR. While our ability to infer a causal relationship between the specific SNPs identified in our analysis and VARV virulence is limited, our results suggest that smallpox severity is in part associated with VARV strain variation and that VARV virulence may be determined by multiple genetic loci. This study represents the first application of MDR to the identification of pathogen gene-gene interactions for predicting infectious disease outbreak severity.
A human skeletal muscle interactome centered on proteins involved in muscular dystrophies: LGMD interactome
Authors: Blandin Gaëlle , Marchand Sylvie , Charton Karine , Danièle Nathalie , Gicquel Evelyne , Boucheteil Jean-Baptiste , Bentaib Azéddine , Barrault Laetitia , Stockholm Daniel , Bartoli Marc , Richard Isabelle
Published: February 2013

Background

The complexity of the skeletal muscle and the identification of numerous human disease-causing mutations in its constitutive proteins make it an interesting tissue for proteomic studies aimed at understanding functional relationships of interacting proteins in both health and diseases.

Method

We undertook a large-scale study using two-hybrid screens and a human skeletal-muscle cDNA library to establish a proteome-scale map of protein-protein interactions centered on proteins involved in limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD). LGMD is a group of more than 20 different neuromuscular disorders that principally affect the proximal pelvic and shoulder girdle muscles.

Results and conclusion

The interaction network we unraveled incorporates 1018 proteins connected by 1492 direct binary interactions and includes 1420 novel protein-protein interactions. Computational, experimental and literature-based analyses were performed to assess the overall quality of this network. Interestingly, LGMD proteins were shown to be highly interconnected, in particular indirectly through sarcomeric proteins. In-depth mining of the LGMD-centered interactome identified new candidate genes for orphan LGMDs and other neuromuscular disorders. The data also suggest the existence of functional links between LGMD2B/dysferlin and gene regulation, between LGMD2C/γ-sarcoglycan and energy control and between LGMD2G/telethonin and maintenance of genome integrity. This dataset represents a valuable resource for future functional investigations.
Generation and validation of a zebrafish model of EAST (Epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness and tubulopathy) syndrome
Authors: Mahmood Fahad , Mozere Monika , Zdebik Anselm A. , Stanescu Horia C. , Tobin Jonathan , Beales Philip L. , Kleta Robert , Bockenhauer Detlef , Russell Claire
Published: February 2013

Recessive mutations in KCNJ10, which encodes an inwardly rectifying potassium channel, were recently identified as the cause of EAST syndrome, a severe and disabling multi-organ disorder consisting of epilepsy, ataxia, sensorineural deafness and tubulopathy that becomes clinically apparent with seizures in infancy. A Kcnj10 knockout mouse shows postnatal mortality and is therefore not suitable for drug discovery. Because zebrafish are ideal for in vivo screening for potential therapeutics, we tested whether kcnj10 knockdown in zebrafish would fill this need. We cloned zebrafish kcnj10 and demonstrated that its function is equivalent to that of human KCNJ10. We next injected splice- and translation-blocking kcnj10 antisense morpholino oligonucleotides and reproduced the cardinal symptoms of EAST syndrome – ataxia, epilepsy and renal tubular defects. Several of these phenotypes could be assayed in an automated manner. We could rescue the morphant phenotype with complementary RNA (cRNA) encoding human wild-type KCNJ10, but not with cRNA encoding a KCNJ10 mutation identified in individuals with EAST syndrome. Our results suggest that zebrafish will be a valuable tool to screen for compounds that are potentially therapeutic for EAST syndrome or its individual symptoms. Knockdown of kcnj10 represents the first zebrafish model of a salt-losing tubulopathy, which has relevance for blood pressure control.
Preparation of Hydroxyapatite-coated Anatase by Photoinduced Superhydrophilic Reaction of TiO2 for Water Purification
Authors: Sugita Tsuyoshi , Mori Masanobu , Nakane Hisashi , Mase Akinori , Itabashi Hideyuki
Published: February 2013

Hydroxyapatite coated on TiO2 for use as a photocatalyst for water purification was synthesized by using the superhydrophilicity of TiO2. The hydroxyapatite formed on TiO2 under UV irradiation with high crystallization in 1 h. The isoelectric point of the hydroxyapatite-coated TiO2 was shifted to acidic pH, and the aggregates formed in aqueous solution at pH 7 were smaller than those of anatase TiO2. Consequently, in water purification tests, the proposed photocatalyst effectively decomposed dimethyl sulfoxide and Methylene Blue in water.
A Novel Approach for Determining the Proportions of Pyrolysis and Hydrolysis in the Degradation of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) in 18O-Labeled Steam
Authors: Kumagai Shogo , Morohoshi Yuto , Grause Guido , Kameda Tomohito , Yoshioka Toshiaki
Published: February 2013

The proportions of pyrolysis and hydrolysis in poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) degradation were determined from the decomposition of PET in 18O-labeled steam, producing labeled and unlabeled terephthalic acid. At a 100 vol % steam concentration at 400 °C, 74% of the ester bonds were pyrolyzed and 26% were hydrolyzed, as determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis revealed the activation energy to be 199 kJ mol−1 under pyrolytic conditions, decreasing with increasing steam concentration, and reaching a minimum of 132 kJ mol−1 at 75 vol %.
Surfactant-free Synthesis and Growing Process of One-dimensional Mg–Al Layered Double Hydroxide Nanobelts
Authors: Ding Peng , Kang Bai , Tang Shengfu , Song Na , Shi Liyi
Published: February 2013

One-dimensional MgAl–CO3 layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanobelts were synthesized by a hydrothermal method in an aqueous solution system without templates. The study showed that the reaction time, reaction temperature, and aging process were the key factors for obtaining LDH nanobelts. Hydrothermal reaction at 60 °C for 48 h favored the growth of nanobelts of width 50–150 nm and length 1000–2000 nm. The nanobelts had the characteristic structures of CO32− intercalated LDHs. Moreover, a tentative mechanism was proposed to explain the evolution of nanobelts in the present system.
Effect of Optical Purity of C3-Symmetric Chiral Tris-ureas on Supramolecular Gel Formation
Authors: Nakagawa Tomoe , Amakatsu Mawo , Munenobu Kanako , Fujii Hiromitsu , Yamanaka Masamichi
Published: February 2013

Homochiral C3-symmetric tris-ureas 1–3 and heterochiral tris-urea 4 were synthesized. The homochiral tris-ureas 1–3 acted as low-molecular-weight gelators for various organic solvents. The optical purities of the tris-ureas strongly influenced their gelation. External chiral molecules influenced chiral supramolecular gel formation of chiral tris-ureas.
Toward a Liberal Theory of Punishment: Locke, Property, and Individualism
Authors: Donoso Alfonso
Published: February 2013

By offering a critical analysis of Nicolás Maloberti’s recent theory and justification of punishment, this article accounts for a series of principles and considerations that any liberal and Lockean theory of punishment must take seriously. This article contends that Locke’s conception of the state – an institution grounded on the right to punish violators of natural rights – and the basic character of the right to property within Locke’s scheme of rights are elements that should lead us to affirm that no genuine liberal theory of punishment can dispense with the political character of the right to punish.
Higher Levels of Neanderthal Ancestry in East Asians than in Europeans
Authors: Wall Jeffrey D , Yang Melinda A , Jay Flora , Kim Sung K , Durand Eric Y , Stevison Laurie S , Gignoux Christopher , Woerner August , Hammer Michael F , Slatkin Montgomery
Published: February 2013

Neanderthals were a group of archaic hominins that occupied most of Europe and parts of Western Asia from ∼30,000 to 300,000 years ago (KYA). They coexisted with modern humans during part of this time. Previous genetic analyses that compared a draft sequence of the Neanderthal genome with genomes of several modern humans concluded that Neanderthals made a small (1–4%) contribution to the gene pools of all non-African populations. This observation was consistent with a single episode of admixture from Neanderthals into the ancestors of all non-Africans when the two groups coexisted in the Middle East 50–80 KYA. We examined the relationship between Neanderthals and modern humans in greater detail by applying two complementary methods to the published draft Neanderthal genome and an expanded set of high-coverage modern human genome sequences. We find that, consistent with the recent finding of Meyer et al. (2012), Neanderthals contributed more DNA to modern East Asians than to modern Europeans. Furthermore we find that the Maasai of East Africa have a small but significant fraction of Neanderthal DNA. Because our analysis is of several genomic samples from each modern human population considered, we are able to document the extent of variation in Neanderthal ancestry within and among populations. Our results combined with those previously published show that a more complex model of admixture between Neanderthals and modern humans is necessary to account for the different levels of Neanderthal ancestry among human populations. In particular, at least some Neanderthal–modern human admixture must postdate the separation of the ancestors of modern European and modern East Asian populations.
Limited RNA Editing in Exons of Mouse Liver and Adipose
Authors: Lagarrigue Sandrine , Hormozdiari Farhad , Martin Lisa J , Lecerf Frédéric , Hasin Yehudit , Rau Christoph , Hagopian Raffi , Xiao Yu , Yan Jun , Drake Thomas A , Ghazalpour Anatole , Eskin Eleazar , Lusis Aldons J
Published: February 2013

Several studies have investigated RNA–DNA differences (RDD), presumably due to RNA editing, with conflicting results. We report a rigorous analysis of RDD in exonic regions in mice, taking into account critical biases in RNA-Seq analysis. Using deep-sequenced F1 reciprocal inbred mice, we mapped 40 million RNA-Seq reads per liver sample and 180 million reads per adipose sample. We found 7300 apparent hepatic RDDs using a multiple-site mapping procedure, compared with 293 RDD found using a unique-site mapping procedure. After filtering for repeat sequence, splice junction proximity, undirectional strand, and extremity read bias, 63 RDD remained. In adipose tissue unique-site mapping identified 1667 RDD, and after applying the same four filters, 188 RDDs remained. In both tissues, the filtering procedure increased the proportion of canonical (A-to-I and C-to-U) editing events. The genomic DNA of 12 RDD sites among the potential 63 hepatic RDD was tested by Sanger sequencing, three of which proved to be due to unreferenced SNPs. We validated seven liver RDD with Sequenom technology, including two noncanonical, Gm5424 C-to-I(G) and Pisd I(G)-to-A RDD. Differences in diet, sex, or genetic background had very modest effects on RDD occurrence. Only a small number of apparent RDD sites overlapped between liver and adipose, indicating a high degree of tissue specificity. Our findings underscore the importance of properly filtering for bias in RNA-Seq investigations, including the necessity of confirming the DNA sequence to eliminate unreferenced SNPs. Based on our results, we conclude that RNA editing is likely limited to hundreds of events in exonic RNA in liver and adipose.
Short Implants in Maxillary and Mandibular Rehabilitations: Interim Results (6 to 42 Months) of a Prospective Study
Authors: Taschieri Silvio , Corbella Stefano , Molinari Raffaella , Saita Massimo , Del Fabbro Massimo
Published: February 2013

The aim of this single-cohort study was to evaluate clinical survival and success of partial rehabilitation supported by reduced-length implants in maxilla and mandible. Data from 53 short implants placed in 41 patients are presented. Before surgery mean residual bone height was 6.21 ± 1.05 mm in the upper jaw and 10.73 ± 1.63 mm in the mandible. None of the implants failed, and the cumulative survival rate was 100% at 1 year after prosthetic loading. Mean peri-implant bone loss was 0.69 ± 0.24 mm for maxillary implants and 0.73 ± 0.23 mm for mandibular implants, and there was no significant difference between the 2 jaws. No complications were recorded. Despite the limitations of this study concerning study design and sample size, short implants may be considered effective in supporting partial rehabilitation in both maxilla and mandible. More well-designed studies with a larger sample size and longer follow-up are needed to validate the use of short implants.
Inertisation of Cd2+ ions by using blended cement pastes
Authors: Hekal Eisa E. , Kishar Essam A. , Mohamed Maha R. , Mohamed Badria A.
Published: February 2013

The inertisation of cadmium (Cd2+) ions in various cement matrices is investigated using the solidification/stabilisation technique. The different cement pastes used in this study are neat Portland cement and Portland cement blended with 20 and 40% blast furnace slag or metakaolin. Two ratios of heavy metal ion, namely 1·0 and 2·0% by weight of solid, are used. The hydration characteristics of the cement pastes are tested by way of determination of the combined water content, phase composition, compressive strength and X-ray diffraction analysis at different time intervals up to 90 d. The metal salt used causes a retarding effect on the hydration of all the investigated cement pastes. The degree of immobilisation of the added Cd2+ ions is evaluated by determining the leached ion concentration after time intervals extended up to 90 d. The leachability experiments are carried out by using the static mode leaching process. It is observed that Cd2+ ions show a high degree of immobilisation for the cement pastes investigated.
The Impact of Snow Accumulation on the Active Layer Thermal Regime in High Arctic Soils
Authors: Lafrenière Melissa J. , Laurin Emil , Lamoureux Scott F.
Published: February 2013

This study quantifies the impacts of snow augmentation and the timing of snow accumulation on the soil thermal regime at the Cape Bounty Arctic Watershed Observatory (CBAWO), in the Canadian High Arctic. Monthly soil temperatures between December and March 2006–2007 were 7.7 to 9.9°C warmer beneath a deep drift (54 cm) relative to soils beneath ambient (unamended or background) snow conditions (10 cm). Although air temperatures and total snow accumulation at the sites in 2007–2008 were very similar to the previous winter, the mean monthly soil temperatures beneath two snow drifts (50 and 88 cm) were only 0.2 to 5.7°C warmer for January through March than soils subject to ambient snow depths (18 and 35 cm). Results demonstrate that the timing of snow accumulation was more important than snow depth in determining winter soil temperatures. In 2006–2007, snow cover insulated soils by early November, while in 2007–2008 there was insufficient snow cover to insulate soils until late January 2008. In 2006–2007, winter (December–March) soil temperatures beneath the deepest snow (54 cm) exceeded winter air temperatures by 6°C, and mean annual air temperatures by 1°C, while in 2007–2008 winter soil temperatures beneath 88 cm of snow were only 0.3°C warmer than air, and mean annual temperatures were 2.4°C cooler than air. There was a weak but significant inverse correlation between the maximum active layer thickness and the snow depth; however, this correlation was more pronounced for snow depths below approximately 30 cm. This study demonstrates that an understanding of the timing of projected increases in winter precipitation is necessary to predict changes in the active layer's thermal, hydrological, and biogeochemical response to regional climate change.
Influence of Winter Grazing on Water and Heat Flow in Seasonally Frozen Soil of Inner Mongolia
Authors: Zhao Ying , Huang Mingbin , Horton Robert , Liu Feng , Peth Stephan , Horn Rainer
Published: February 2013

Snowmelt infiltration and soil thawing processes are essential for understanding surface and subsurface hydrology under the cold and arid climatic conditions found in grazed Inner Mongolia grassland soils. Over a 6‐yr period (2004–2009), we evaluated the effects of winter grazing and freezing/thawing cycles on (i) soil hydraulic and thermal properties, (ii) the dynamics of field soil moisture and temperature, and (iii) the contributions of snowmelt and soil thawing to the summer water balance. Two adjacent contrasting sites were selected: a site that has been ungrazed since 1999 (UG99), and a site that has been grazed during the winter (WG). The results showed that the freezing/thawing cycles changed soil hydraulic and thermal properties. Associated with those freezing‐induced changes, winter grazing decreased soil moisture by 5–10% throughout the whole year (October 2005 to September 2006), increased soil temperature by 1 to 3°C in summer, and decreased it by 2 to 5°C in winter. The grazed site with lower vegetation/snow cover and larger thermal conductivity had greater freezing rates and larger soil temperature fluctuations on a daily scale than the ungrazed site. Winter precipitation (snow + rainfall) contributed 15% of the total annual water balance for the UG99 site, but only 11% for WG site. We concluded that a detailed analysis of the spring snowmelt infiltration was critical for calculating seasonal water and energy balances in this region to fully understand the hydrological and ecological processes.
Methodological Aspects of Fractal Dimension Estimation on the Basis of Particle Size Distribution
Authors: Bieganowski Andrzej , Chojecki Tymoteusz , Ryżak Magdalena , Sochan Agata , Lamorski Krzysztof
Published: February 2013

Analysisof particle size distribution (PSD) is one of the methods used for calculating fractal dimensions. The PSD of soils has been determined by sedimentation methods for many years. Newer laser diffractometry PSD measurement techniques were developed during the past few decades. Whereas sedimentation methods can differentiate between a few (usually eight) particle sizes, laser diffraction methods produce many more fractions (tens or even several hundred). The aim of this paper is to answer the question of whether or not the number of size fractions and intervals between them determine the value of the fractal dimension when it is calculated on the basis of PSD. The conclusion is that the number of fractions and the way in which they are divided does affect the calculated fractal dimension, and that therefore the calculation procedure should be standardized.
Evaporation and Water Redistribution in Layered Unsaturated Soil Profiles
Authors: Huang Mingbin , Bruch Philip G. , Barbour S. Lee
Published: February 2013

The mechanisms controlling surface evaporation and water redistribution in layered, unsaturated soil profiles are of particular interest for the design of soil covers for landfills and mine waste (e.g., tailings) where layering of texturally contrasting soils is common. Evaporation and water redistribution were observed in laboratory tests of three layered soil columns (sand overlying silt, silt overlying sand, and multiple sand and silt layers), with two homogeneous soil columns (sand or silt) serving as controls. Changes in water storage were monitored along with changes in potential and actual evaporation with time. Near continuous monitoring of temperature along the columns was also conducted. The hydraulic properties of the sand and silt were measured but also verified through simulations of the homogeneous sand and silt columns. These optimized parameters were then used to simulate the layered columns. Layered columns with silt at the surface had more evaporation than homogeneous soil columns of either sand or silt. Changes in water storage in the columns with sand at the surface occurred primarily within the surficial sand layer without drawing water from deeper in the column. Columns with silt at surface drew water for evaporation from sand layers deeper within the column. Numerical modeling of the columns was able to reproduce the observed changes in evaporation rates and water content for all layered soil columns. The laboratory and simulation studies illustrated the strong influence that textural layering may have on water dynamics in soil profiles under evaporative conditions.
Effects of Soil Hydraulic and Transport Parameter Uncertainty on Predictions of Solute Transport in Large Lysimeters
Authors: Skaggs T.H. , Suarez D.L. , Goldberg S.
Published: February 2013

Advanced numerical simulation models can potentially help improve guidelines for irrigation and salinity management. Many simulation model parameters have considerable uncertainty, and ideally that uncertainty should be reflected in model predictions and recommendations. In this work, we investigate solute transport predication intervals that can be generated by propagating model parameter uncertainty using Monte Carlo techniques. Flow and transport is simulated with a standard numerical model, while soil parameters and their uncertainty are estimated with pedotransfer functions. Generalized global sensitivity coefficients are computed to determine the parameters having the greatest impact on transport prediction and uncertainty. Simulations are compared with Br transport measured under unsaturated conditions in large lysimeters packed with clayey soil materials. In a 48 cm tall, homogeneous soil profile, model prediction intervals provided a reasonably good description of a single, relatively “noisy” breakthrough curve. In replicated 180 cm tall, layered soil profiles, model structural errors limited the accuracy of the prediction intervals under one irrigation water treatment, whereas under another treatment the predictions tracked the time course of the data reasonably well but tended to overestimate solute concentrations. The width of the prediction intervals tended to be small relative to the range of transport variability that existed across replicated lysimeters, particularly at shallow depths. Additional work aimed at operational field testing of model prediction uncertainty is needed if advanced water management models are to reach their full potential.
A Longitudinal Study of Left Ventricular Function and Structure from CKD to ESRD
Authors: Bansal Nisha , Keane Martin , Delafontaine Patrice , Dries Daniel , Foster Elyse , Gadegbeku Crystal A. , Go Alan S. , Hamm L. Lee , Kusek John W. , Ojo Akinlolu O. , Rahman Mahboob , Tao Kaixiang , Wright Jackson T. , Xie Dawei , Hsu, Chi-yuan
Published: February 2013

Background and objectives

Abnormal left ventricular structure and function are associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes among patients with CKD and ESRD. A better understanding of changes in left ventricular mass and ejection fraction during the transition from CKD to ESRD may provide important insights to opportunities to improve cardiac outcomes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This was a longitudinal study of a subset of participants of the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort who were enrolled from 2003 to 2007 and followed through January of 2011. Participants were included if they had serial echocardiograms performed at advanced CKD (defined as estimated GFR<20 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and again after ESRD (defined as need for hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis).

Results

A total of 190 participants (44% female, 66% black) had echocardiograms during advanced CKD and after ESRD. Mean (SD) estimated GFR at advanced CKD was 16.9 (3.5) ml/min per 1.73 m2. Mean (SD) time between the advanced CKD echocardiogram and ESRD echocardiogram was 2.0 (1.0) years. There was no significant change in left ventricular mass index (62.3–59.5 g/m2.7, P=0.10) between advanced CKD and ESRD; however, ejection fraction significantly decreased (53%–50%, P=0.002). Interactions for age, race, dialysis modality, and diabetes status were not significant (P>0.05).

Conclusions

Mean left ventricular mass index did not change significantly from advanced CKD to ESRD; however, ejection fraction declined during this transition period. Although left ventricular mass index is fixed by advanced stages of CKD, ejection fraction decline during more advanced stages of CKD may be an important contributor to cardiovascular disease and mortality after dialysis.
Canagliflozin Lowers Postprandial Glucose and Insulin by Delaying Intestinal Glucose Absorption in Addition to Increasing Urinary Glucose Excretion
Authors: Polidori David , Sha Sue , Mudaliar Sunder , Ciaraldi Theodore P. , Ghosh Atalanta , Vaccaro Nicole , Farrell Kristin , Rothenberg Paul , Henry Robert R.
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE

Canagliflozin, a sodium glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitor, is also a low-potency SGLT1 inhibitor. This study tested the hypothesis that intestinal canagliflozin levels postdose are sufficiently high to transiently inhibit intestinal SGLT1, thereby delaying intestinal glucose absorption.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This two-period, crossover study evaluated effects of canagliflozin on intestinal glucose absorption in 20 healthy subjects using a dual-tracer method. Placebo or canagliflozin 300 mg was given 20 min before a 600-kcal mixed-meal tolerance test. Plasma glucose, 3H-glucose, 14C-glucose, and insulin were measured frequently for 6 h to calculate rates of appearance of oral glucose (RaO) in plasma, endogenous glucose production, and glucose disposal.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, canagliflozin treatment reduced postprandial plasma glucose and insulin excursions (incremental 0- to 2-h area under the curve [AUC0–2h] reductions of 35% and 43%, respectively; P < 0.001 for both), increased 0- to 6-h urinary glucose excretion (UGE0–6h, 18.2 ± 5.6 vs. <0.2 g; P < 0.001), and delayed RaO. Canagliflozin reduced AUC RaO by 31% over 0 to 1 h (geometric means, 264 vs. 381 mg/kg; P < 0.001) and by 20% over 0 to 2 h (576 vs. 723 mg/kg; P = 0.002). Over 2 to 6 h, canagliflozin increased RaO such that total AUC RaO over 0 to 6 h was <6% lower versus placebo (960 vs. 1,018 mg/kg; P = 0.003). A modest (∼10%) reduction in acetaminophen absorption was observed over the first 2 h, but this difference was not sufficient to explain the reduction in RaO. Total glucose disposal over 0 to 6 h was similar across groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Canagliflozin reduces postprandial plasma glucose and insulin by increasing UGE (via renal SGLT2 inhibition) and delaying RaO, likely due to intestinal SGLT1 inhibition.
Perceptions of Usability and Design for Prefilled Insulin Delivery Devices for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Heron Louise , Reaney Matthew , Hermanns Norbert , Abetz Linda , Gregg Laura
Published: February 2013

Although many patients with type 2 diabetes are initially managed through lifestyle modification, most eventually require insulin therapy. However, insulin initiation is often delayed because of factors such as patients' resistance to insulin therapy and worries about injections. Such delays affect glycemic control, have a direct effect on patient encounters, and may affect medication adherence. Insulin pen delivery systems may address some of these concerns.

This study had two phases. First, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted to identify the most important features of insulin delivery devices for prandial use from the perspective of patients (n = 8) and health care professionals (HCPs; n = 10). From phase 1, a 26-item questionnaire was developed. In phase 2, patients (n = 33 insulin naive, n = 78 pen users) and HCPs (n = 151) were asked to indicate the most important features to them in insulin delivery devices. Patients then simulated injection using three different pens (SoloSTAR, KwikPen, and FlexPen) and ranked them based on the same features.

The most important features were knowing that the entire dose has been injected, ease of reading the dose correctly, and ease of correcting if the dose is over-dialed. In the simulation study, KwikPen and SoloSTAR scored significantly higher (paired t test, P < 0.05) than FlexPen on “knowing if you have injected the entire dose” (mean score out of 10: KwikPen, 8.9; SoloSTAR, 8.6; and FlexPen, 8.4). No other significant differences among the pens were noted in usability or design, and the mean ranking (from 1 to 3) of the pens was similar (KwikPen, 2.0; FlexPen, 2.1; and SoloSTAR, 1.9). By identifying which insulin delivery pens offer these features, HCPs can choose the most appropriate delivery device for patients, which may lead to earlier insulin initiation, greater patient adherence, and better clinical outcomes.
Works of A.A. Samarskii on Computational Mathematics
Authors: Vabishchevich P.N.
Published: February 2013

This is a review of the main results in computational mathematics that
were obtained by the eminent Russian mathematician Alexander Andreevich Samarskii
(February 19, 1919 – February 11, 2008). His outstanding research output addresses
all the main questions that arise in the construction and justification of algorithms for
the numerical solution of problems from mathematical physics.
The remarkable works of A.A. Samarskii include statements of the main principles re-
quired in the construction of difference schemes, rigorous mathematical proofs of the
stability and convergence of these schemes, and also investigations of their algorith-
mic implementation. A.A. Samarskii and his collaborators constructed and applied in
practical calculations a large number of algorithms for solving various problems from
mathematical physics, including thermal physics, gas dynamics, magnetic gas dynam-
ics, plasma physics, ecology and other important models from the natural sciences.
A Metod with a Controllable Exponential Convergence Rate for Nonlinear Differential Operator Equations
Authors: Gavrilyuk I.P. , Lazurchak I. I. , Makarov V. L. , Sytnyk D.
Published: February 2013

We propose a new analytical-numerical method with an embedded
convergence control mechanism for solving nonlinear operator differential equations.
The method provides the exponential convergence rate. A numerical example confirms
the theoretical results.
The International Diffusion Of European Alcohol Research / Mednarodna Razpršenost Evropskih Raziskav O Alkoholu
Authors: Robles Noemi , Matrai Silvia , Carral Bielsa Vanesa , Colom Joan , Gual Antoni
Published: February 2013

Background: Europe presents the highest rates of alcohol consumption per inhabitant, with an impact exceeding 6% of the DALYs lost. However, European researchers claim that most of the research in the alcohol field is conducted outside Europe. In order to assess this claim, a review of international indexed publications on alcohol marketing and availability, two cornerstones of alcohol public health policy, was performed.

Methods: A systematic search on Medline (1990-2009) was conducted by two independent researchers in order to identify articles that studied the availability or marketing of alcoholic beverages. The publication year and country of affiliation of the first author were recorded. The type and number of publications were classified according to the geographic area where the research was conducted.

Results: Of the 990 retrieved articles on availability, 214 were found relevant; of the 828 articles obtained for marketing, 249 were classified as relevant. Most of the alcohol availability- and marketing-related articles were published in the USA (52.3% and 59.0%, respectively). A total of 22.5% of the availability studies and 15.7% of the marketing studies were published by a first author affiliated to a European country. The European alcohol-related references have been generated mostly in the UK, the Scandinavian countries and the Netherlands (73.4% of all European publications).

Conclusion: Despite the impact of alcohol in Europe, most of the research is conducted in other countries. Moreover, the volume of research is unequal among the European countries as well. European public health research in the alcohol field should be encouraged, involving countries with scant or non-existent research.
Strošek In Učinkovitost Zdravljenja Shizofrenije Z Atipičnimi Antipsihotiki V Sloveniji: Raziskava Stroškovne Učinkovitosti / The Cost And Effects Of Atypical Antipsychotic Agents In Patients With Schizophrenia In Slovenia: A Cost Effectiveness Study
Authors: Štuhec Matej , Petrica Demetrij , Toni Janez
Published: February 2013

Izvleček

Uvod: Zdravljenje z atipičnimi antipsihotiki predstavlja najpomembnejši način zdravljenja bolnikov z akutno shizofrenijo
in predstavlja veliki strošek. V Sloveniji nam primanjkuje raziskav stroškovne učinkovitosti atipičnih antipsihotikov,
ki jih lahko uporabimo v klinični praksi.

Namen: Osnovni namen raziskave je bil primerjava stroškov in učinkovitosti petih atipičnih antipsihotikov z največjim
tržnim deležem v letu 2011 v Sloveniji. V raziskavo smo vključili aripiprazol, kvetiapin, paliperidon, risperidon in olanzapin.

Metode: Ciljna populacija v raziskavi so bili slovenski bolniki z akutno shizofrenijo. Vsak izmed petih antipsihotikov
predstavlja glavno vejo odločitvenega drevesa. Terapevtska učinkovitost je bila določena kot verjetnost letne remisije.
Ceno dnevnega zdravljenja s posameznim zdravilom smo pridobili iz podatkov tržnega deleža in prometa v letu
2011, stroške mentalnega zdravstvenega varstva v Sloveniji pa smo pridobili iz podatkov Zavoda za zdravstveno
zavarovanje Republike Slovenije. Raziskava je bila zasnovana z vidika plačnika, tj. Zavoda za zdravstveno
zavarovanje Republike Slovenije.

Rezultati: Zdravljenje z risperidonom je najcenejše, najučinkovitejše pa z olanzapinom. Strategija zdravljenja z
risperidonom ima najmanjši kvocient med stroški in učinkovitostjo. Strategije zdravljenja z aripiprazolom, s kvetiapinom
in paliperidonom so prevladujoče. Cene letnega zdravljenja so: 6.812 EUR za risperidon, 7.509 EUR za kvetiapin,
7.295 EUR za olanzapin, 8.229 EUR za aripiprazol in 8.044 EUR za paliperidon. Učinkovitosti, podane v deležu
letne remisije, so: 0,605 - kvetiapin, 0,603 - aripiprazol, 0,671 - risperidon, 0,723 - olanzapin in 0,712 - paliperidon.

Sklep: Rezultati študije kažejo, da je najbolj stroškovno učinkovito zdravljenje akutne
shizofrenije z risperidonom in olanzapinom
Razširjenost Kajenja Med Medicinskimi Sestrami, Babicami In Zdravstvenimi Tehniki V Sloveniji / The Prevalence Of Smoking Among Nurses, Midwives And Nursing Technicians In Slovenia
Authors: Koprivnikar Helena , Zupanič Tina , Pucelj Vesna , Blenkuš Mojca Gabrijelčič
Published: February 2013

Izvleček

Uvod: Medicinske sestre lahko s svetovanjem za opustitev kajenja pomembno prispevajo k zmanjšanju rabe tobaka;
pri tem jih pomembno ovira njihovo lastno kajenje. Namen raziskave je prikazati kadilske navade te poklicne skupine
v Sloveniji.

Metode: Analiza temelji na podatkih iz presečne raziskave na nacionalno reprezentativnem vzorcu medicinskih
sester, babic in zdravstvenih tehnikov (spletna anketa). Naključno izbrani člani Zbornice zdravstvene in babiške
nege so se odzvali v 51% (N =1.500), o tem, ali kadijo ali ne, pa smo dodatno pridobili podatke še od 218 oseb, ki
sicer v anketi niso želele sodelovati.

Rezultati: V Sloveniji kadi 20,9% medicinskih sester, babic in zdravstvenih tehnikov, več moških (32,9%) kot žensk
(19,6%), več tistih s srednjo stopnjo izobrazbe (25,1%) kot z višjo ali več (12,1%), z nižjo samooceno materialnega
standarda, ki ne živijo s partnerjem in ki nimajo (predšolskih) otrok ter med njihovimi najbližjimi sodelavci, prijatelji
in sorodniki kadi nadpovprečen delež oseb. Več kot polovica (52,9%) jih je začela kaditi med šolanjem na srednjih
šoli, znaten delež (15,6%) pa tudi v prvih letih zaposlitve. 20% jih navaja, da v ustanovi, v kateri delajo, zaposleni
kršijo prepoved kajenja.

Zaključek: Kajenje med medicinskimi sestrami, babicami in zdravstvenimi tehniki je v Sloveniji še vedno prepogost
pojav ter lahko znatno vpliva na njihovo poslanstvo in delo na področju promocije nekajenja in pomoči pri opuščanju
kajenja. Pomembno je, da za to poklicno skupino okrepimo promocijo nekajenja že od začetka šolanja in organiziramo
ustrezne programe opuščanja kajenja.
Spolno Prenosljive Okužbe Z Bakterijo Chlamydia Trachomatis V Sloveniji / Sexually Transmitted Infections With The Bacteria Chlamydia Trachomatis In Slovenia
Authors: Ponikvar Barbara Mihevc , Krotec Irena , Klavs Irena
Published: February 2013

Izvleček

Namen:Namen prispevka je na osnovi sistematičnega pregleda objavljenih raziskav oceniti prevalenco genitalnihokužb z bakterijo Chlamydia trachomatis v Sloveniji.

Metode:Pregledana je bila literatura v dveh elektronskih podatkovnih zbirkah, in sicer v zbirki PubMed z uporabokombinacije ključnih besed »chlamydia« in »Slovenia« ter v zbirki Cobiss Slovenija s pomočjo ključnih besed»klamidija«, »chlamidia« in »chlamydia«. Vključene so raziskave, ki so bile v navedenih zbirkah vpisane do vključnokonca novembra 2011 in so vsebovale izsledke o pogostosti klamidijskih okužb med prebivalci Slovenije.

Rezultati:V obdobju od leta 1980 do vključno konca novembra 2011 je bilo objavljenih 18 raziskav, ki so ustrezaleiskalnim merilom. Večina raziskav je bila izvedena na različnih skupinah prebivalcev Slovenije in ne na verjetnostnihnacionalnih vzorcih. Klamidijska okužba je bila ugotovljena v 0-19% primerih. Pri preiskovancih z nekaterimi stanji,ki so lahko povezana z višjo prevalenco spolno prenosljivih okužb, je bila klamidijska okužba ugotovljena v 4,9-19%,pri tistih, ki takšnih stanj niso imeli opisanih, pa v 0-16,5%. Pet raziskav je bilo končanih po letu 2000 in pri teh jebila klamidijska okužba ugotovljena v 0-6,5%. Največ okuženih je med starimi 20 in 24 let.

Zaključki:Chlamydia trachomatis je pomembna povzročiteljica spolno prenosljivih okužb v Sloveniji. Večineklamidijskih okužb zaradi nizkih stopenj testiranja ne prepoznamo in tako zamujamo številne priložnosti za zdravljenjein preprečevanje kasnih posledic, predvsem za reproduktivno zdravje žensk
This is Tom = /zyzys'tom/. Pronunciation in Beginners' EFL Textbooks Then and Now
Authors: Sobkowiak Włodzimierz
Published: February 2013

The textbook appears to be one of the most fundamental elements of all formal-setting foreign language teaching and learning. Textbooks function in a foreign language classroom in many capacities (Cunningsworth 1995), one of which is the provision of text, used as a model for language practice, including practice of pronunciation. The changing methodological trends in EFL pedagogy over the decades affect EFL textbook pronunciation treatment in a variety of ways. In this paper a simple feasibility study is presented whereby a few beginners’ textbooks are compared with respect to their handling of pronunciation in the first unit of the course. Four textbooks come from about ½ century ago, and three are sampled from among those currently available. On the descriptive level, some analysis is offered of the phonetic (and especially phonolapsological) characteristics of the sampled texts, as they changed through time. On the level of application, it is claimed that, while the lexico-grammatical and pedagogical limitations on the content of the first lessons/units in EFL textbooks leave authors little space for phonetic control, a modicum of such control is feasible if attention is paid to such variables as pronunciation difficulty and L1 transfer. The Phonetic Difficulty Index (PDI), which is briefly introduced in the paper, can be used to measure and control some of these variables and give the textbook authors and users a useful teaching/learning instrument.
Exploring Male and Female Voices through Epistemic Modality and Evidentiality in Some Modern English Travel Texts on the Canaries
Authors: Alonso-Almeida Francisco , González-Cruz Mª Isabel
Published: February 2013

This article describes authorial voice through evidential and epistemic sentential devices in a corpus of 19th and early 20th century travel texts. The corpus contains four works written by female travellers and the other four by men. Therefore, apart from providing a catalogue of the strategies deployed by the authors in order to mark modality and evidentiality, we also report on expected differences in their frequencies of use in relation to the writer’s gender. In addition, the interest of this study lies in the fact that, to the best of our knowledge, no research on writer stance has previously been carried out in texts belonging to the genre of travel writing.
More On the Voicing of English Obstruents: Voicing Retention vs. Voicing Loss
Authors: Gonet Wiktor , Święciński Radosław
Published: February 2013

In Gonet (2010), one of the present authors found out that English word-final phonologically voiced obstruents in the voicing-favouring environment exhibit asymmetrical, if not erratic, behaviour in that voicing in plosives is most often retained while in fricatives voicing retention concerns only about 1/3 of the cases, with the other possibilities (partial and complete devoicing) occurring in almost equal proportions. The present study is an attempt at exploring the intricacies of devoicing in English to examine to what extent the general tendency towards obstruent devoicing is overridden by voicing retention triggered by adjacent voiced segments both within words and across word boundaries. This study is based on a relatively large knowledge base obtained from recordings of spontaneous R. P. pronunciation.