bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Segregation of non‐target‐site resistance to herbicides in multiple‐resistant Alopecurus myosuroides plants
Authors: Rosenhauer M , Felsenstein F G , Piepho H‐P , Höfer M , Petersen J
Published: February 2015

Non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR) comprises a set of mechanisms conferring resistance to multiple modes of action. Investigation of the number of loci involved in NTSR will aid in the understanding of these resistance mechanisms. Therefore, six different multiple herbicide‐resistant Alopecurus myosuroides plants with different herbicide history were crossed in two generations with a susceptible wild type. Seeds from the backcrossing generation were studied for their segregation rate for resistance to five herbicides with four different modes of action (HRAC groups C2, A, B and K3). Taking into account that NTSR is a set of quantitative traits, the numbers of loci controlling NTSR were estimated using a normal mixture model fitted by the NLMIXED procedure of SAS. Each herbicide was controlled by a different number of loci comparing the six plants. In most of the cases, chlorotoluron resistance was controlled by one locus, whereas resistance to fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl needed one or two loci. Resistance to pinoxaden was in all plants conferred by two loci. Cross‐resistance of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl and pinoxaden was found in all backcrossings, indicating that at least one of the two loci is responsible for both resistances. Resistance to mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron was conferred by a minimum of two loci. Results indicated that a minimum of five different loci can be involved in a multiple NTSR plant. Furthermore, the plant‐specific accumulation of NTSR loci was demonstrated. Such behaviour should be taken into account when evaluating the development and further spread of herbicide resistance.
Mechanisms Involved in Fe(III) Respiration by the Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Ferroglobus placidus
Authors: Smith Jessica A. , Aklujkar Muktak , Risso Carla , Leang Ching , Giloteaux Ludovic , Holmes Dawn E.
Published: February 2015

The hyperthermophilic archaeon
Ferroglobus placidus
can utilize a wide variety of electron donors, including hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds, with Fe(III) serving as an electron acceptor. In Fe(III)-reducing bacteria that have been studied to date, this process is mediated by
c
-type cytochromes and type IV pili. However, there currently is little information available about how this process is accomplished in archaea.
In silico
analysis of the
F. placidus
genome revealed the presence of 30 genes coding for putative
c
-type cytochrome proteins (more than any other archaeon that has been sequenced to date), five of which contained 10 or more heme-binding motifs. When cell extracts were analyzed by SDS-PAGE followed by heme staining, multiple bands corresponding to
c
-type cytochromes were detected. Different protein expression patterns were observed in
F. placidus
cells grown on soluble and insoluble iron forms. In order to explore this result further, transcriptomic studies were performed. Eight genes corresponding to multiheme
c
-type cytochromes were upregulated when
F. placidus
was grown with insoluble Fe(III) oxide compared to soluble Fe(III) citrate as an electron acceptor. Numerous archaella (archaeal flagella) also were observed on Fe(III)-grown cells, and genes coding for two type IV pilin-like domain proteins were differentially expressed in Fe(III) oxide-grown cells. This study provides insight into the mechanisms for dissimilatory Fe(III) respiration by hyperthermophilic archaea.
TElehealth in CHronic disease: mixed-methods study to develop the TECH conceptual model for intervention design and evaluation
Authors: Salisbury Chris , Thomas Clare , O'Cathain Alicia , Rogers Anne , Pope Catherine , Yardley Lucy , Hollinghurst Sandra , Fahey Tom , Lewis Glyn , Large Shirley , Edwards Louisa , Rowsell Alison , Segar Julia , Brownsell Simon , Montgomery Alan A
Published: February 2015

Objective

To develop a conceptual model for effective use of telehealth in the management of chronic health conditions, and to use this to develop and evaluate an intervention for people with two exemplar conditions: raised cardiovascular disease risk and depression.

Design

The model was based on several strands of evidence: a metareview and realist synthesis of quantitative and qualitative evidence on telehealth for chronic conditions; a qualitative study of patients’ and health professionals’ experience of telehealth; a quantitative survey of patients’ interest in using telehealth; and review of existing models of chronic condition management and evidence-based treatment guidelines. Based on these evidence strands, a model was developed and then refined at a stakeholder workshop. Then a telehealth intervention (‘Healthlines’) was designed by incorporating strategies to address each of the model components. The model also provided a framework for evaluation of this intervention within parallel randomised controlled trials in the two exemplar conditions, and the accompanying process evaluations and economic evaluations.

Setting

Primary care.

Results

The TElehealth in CHronic Disease (TECH) model proposes that attention to four components will offer interventions the best chance of success: (1) engagement of patients and health professionals, (2) effective chronic disease management (including subcomponents of self-management, optimisation of treatment, care coordination), (3) partnership between providers and (4) patient, social and health system context. Key intended outcomes are improved health, access to care, patient experience and cost-effective care.

Conclusions

A conceptual model has been developed based on multiple sources of evidence which articulates how telehealth may best provide benefits for patients with chronic health conditions. It can be used to structure the design and evaluation of telehealth programmes which aim to be acceptable to patients and providers, and cost-effective.
Earthquake ethics through scientific knowledge, historical memory and societal awareness: the experience of direct Internet information
Authors: de Rubeis Valerio , Sbarra P. , Sebaste B. , Tosi P.
Published: February 2015

The collection of web data on the effects of earthquakes and the diffusion of this information to the public receive growing interest from Italian citizens. Since 2007, more than 650 000 intensity questionnaires, describing more than 7800 earthquakes were collected.

Two-way information exchange is important. Everybody records the local observed effects of earthquakes and then a global view can be obtained through the maps of the earthquakes that are generated in real-time. More than 23 000 permanent subscribers distributed throughout Italy are alerted in case of an earthquake, which reinforces participation. People are informed through e-mail, about events occurring in their area. The ‘alert’ service is a reminder that earthquakes are continuously present, but high magnitude events rarely occur.

Every person knows what an earthquake is and this brings fear and the idea of death and destruction. Often there is also a belief that earthquakes are very rare occurrences. This fact feeds refusal and repression. A strong earthquake immediately changes surprised feelings into shock and desperation. A positive approach should comprise the following: (1) a better knowledge of seismicity, (2) constant awareness of seismic activity, (3) an understanding of the meaning of the probability applied to seismicity and (4) a movement towards positive activities such as building reinforcements and earthquake simulation activities. Social and ethical implications need to find an equilibrium point between alarmism and the undervaluation of the hazard.
Noninvasive pulmonary artery wave intensity analysis in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Quail Michael A. , Knight Daniel S. , Steeden Jennifer A. , Taelman Liesbeth , Moledina Shahin , Taylor Andrew M. , Segers Patrick , Coghlan Gerry J. , Muthurangu Vivek
Published: February 2015

Pulmonary wave reflections are a potential hemodynamic biomarker for pulmonary hypertension (PH) and can be analyzed using wave intensity analysis (WIA). In this study we used pulmonary vessel area and flow obtained using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) to implement WIA noninvasively. We hypothesized that this method could detect differences in reflections in PH patients compared with healthy controls and could also differentiate certain PH subtypes. Twenty patients with PH (35% CTEPH and 75% female) and 10 healthy controls (60% female) were recruited. Right and left pulmonary artery (LPA and RPA) flow and area curves were acquired using self-gated golden-angle, spiral, phase-contrast CMR with a 10.5-ms temporal resolution. These data were used to perform WIA on patients and controls. The presence of a proximal clot in CTEPH patients was determined from contemporaneous computed tomography/angiographic data. A backwards-traveling compression wave (BCW) was present in both LPA and RPA of all PH patients but was absent in all controls ( P = 6e−8). The area under the BCW was associated with a sensitivity of 100% [95% confidence interval (CI) 63–100%] and specificity of 91% (95% CI 75–98%) for the presence of a clot in the proximal PAs of patients with CTEPH. In conclusion, WIA metrics were significantly different between patients and controls; in particular, the presence of an early BCW was specifically associated with PH. The magnitude of the area under the BCW showed discriminatory capacity for the presence of proximal PA clot in patients with CTEPH. We believe that these results demonstrate that WIA could be used in the noninvasive assessment of PH.
Pyk2 aggravates hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension by activating HIF-1α
Authors: Fukai Kuniyoshi , Nakamura Akihiro , Hoshino Atsushi , Nakanishi Naohiko , Okawa Yoshifumi , Ariyoshi Makoto , Kaimoto Satoshi , Uchihashi Motoki , Ono Kazunori , Tateishi Shuhei , Ikeda Koji , Ogata Takehiro , Ueyama Tomomi , Matoba Satoaki
Published: February 2015

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a refractory disease characterized by uncontrolled vascular remodeling and elevated pulmonary arterial pressure. Although synthetic inhibitors of some tyrosine kinases have been used to treat PAH, their therapeutic efficacies and safeties remain controversial. Thus, the establishment of novel therapeutic targets based on the molecular pathogenesis underlying PAH is a clinically urgent issue. In the present study, we demonstrated that proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2), a nonreceptor type protein tyrosine kinase, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) using an animal model of hypoxia-induced PH. Resistance to hypoxia-induced PH was markedly higher in Pyk2-deficient mice than in wild-type mice. Pathological investigations revealed that medial thickening of the pulmonary arterioles, which is a characteristic of hypoxia-induced PH, was absent in Pyk2-deficient mice, suggesting that Pyk2 is involved in the hypoxia-induced aberrant proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in hypoxia-induced PH. In vitro experiments using human pulmonary smooth muscle cells showed that hypoxic stress increased the proliferation and migration of cells in a Pyk2-dependent manner. We also demonstrated that Pyk2 plays a crucial role in ROS generation during hypoxic stress and that this Pyk2-dependent generation of ROS is necessary for the activation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α, a key molecule in the pathogenesis of hypoxia-induced PH. In summary, the results of the present study reveal that Pyk2 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of hypoxia-induced PH. Therefore, Pyk2 may represent a promising therapeutic target for PAH in a clinical setting.
Selective targeting of the α5-subunit of GABAA receptors relaxes airway smooth muscle and inhibits cellular calcium handling
Authors: Gallos George , Yocum Gene T. , Siviski Matthew E. , Yim Peter D. , Fu Xiao Wen , Poe Michael M. , Cook James M. , Harrison Neil , Perez-Zoghbi Jose , Emala Charles W.
Published: February 2015

The clinical need for novel bronchodilators for the treatment of bronchoconstrictive diseases remains a major medical issue. Modulation of airway smooth muscle (ASM) chloride via GABAA receptor activation to achieve relaxation of precontracted ASM represents a potentially beneficial therapeutic option. Since human ASM GABAA receptors express only the α4- and α5-subunits, there is an opportunity to selectively target ASM GABAA receptors to improve drug efficacy and minimize side effects. Recently, a novel compound ( R)-ethyl8-ethynyl-6-(2-fluorophenyl)-4-methyl-4 H-benzo[ f]imidazo[1,5- a][1,4] diazepine-3-carboxylate (SH-053-2′F-R-CH3) with allosteric selectivity for α5-subunit containing GABAA receptors has become available. We questioned whether this novel GABAA α5-selective ligand relaxes ASM and affects intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) regulation. Immunohistochemical staining localized the GABAA α5-subunit to human ASM. The selective GABAA α5 ligand SH-053-2′F-R-CH3 relaxes precontracted intact ASM; increases GABA-activated chloride currents in human ASM cells in voltage-clamp electrophysiology studies; and attenuates bradykinin-induced increases in [Ca2+]i, store-operated Ca2+ entry, and methacholine-induced Ca2+ oscillations in peripheral murine lung slices. In conclusion, selective subunit targeting of endogenous α5-subunit containing GABAA receptors on ASM may represent a novel therapeutic option to treat severe bronchospasm.
Modulation of pulmonary fibrosis by IL-13Rα2
Authors: Lumsden Robert V. , Worrell Julie C. , Boylan Denise , Walsh Sinead M. , Cramton Jennifer , Counihan Ian , O'Beirne Sarah , Medina Maria Fe , Gauldie Jack , Fabre Aurelie , Donnelly Seamas C. , Kane Rosemary , Keane Michael P.
Published: February 2015

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive and fatal disease that involves the remodeling of the distal airspace and the lung parenchyma, which results in compromised gas exchange. The median survival time once diagnosed is less than three years. Interleukin (IL)-13 has been shown to play a role in a number of inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. IL-13 modulates its effector functions via a complex receptor system that includes the IL-4 receptor (R) α, IL-13Rα1, and the IL-13Rα2. IL-13Rα1 binds IL-13 with low affinity, yet, when it forms a complex with IL-4α, it binds with much higher affinity, inducing the effector functions of IL-13. IL-13Rα2 binds IL-13 with high affinity but has a short cytoplasmic tail and has been shown to act as a nonsignaling decoy receptor. Transfection of fibroblasts and epithelial cells with IL-13Rα2 inhibited the IL-13 induction of soluble collagen, TGF-β, and CCL17. Adenoviral overexpression of IL-13Rα2 in the lung reduced bleomycin-induced fibrosis. Our work shows that overexpression of IL-13Rα2 inhibits the IL-13 induction of fibrotic markers in vitro and inhibits bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. In summary our study highlights the antifibrotic nature of IL-13Ra2.
Ecological Niche Modeling of Seventeen Sandflies Species (Diptera, Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) from Venezuela
Authors: Sanchez Iomar , Liria Jonathan , Feliciangeli María Dora
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study is to create distribution models of seventeenLutzomyiaspecies in Venezuela. Presence records were obtained from field collections over 30 years by several research teams. We used maximum entropy method for model construction based on 30 arc-second resolution environmental layers: 19 bioclimatic variables, elevation, and land cover. Three species were distributed throughout north-central Venezuelan, two restricted to northern Venezuelan coast, and three throughout the west; five were restricted mainly to the Andean and finally two species within sparse pattern. The most important variables that contributed were related to precipitation. The environmental niche model of sandflies might be a useful tool to contribute to the understanding of the ecoepidemiological complexity of the transmission dynamics of the leishmaniases.
Unresponsiveness of Experimental Canine Leishmaniosis to a New Amphotericin B Formulation
Authors: Hernández Leticia , Bolás-Fernández Francisco , Montoya Ana , Checa Rocío , Dado Diana , Gálvez Rosa , Serrano Dolores R. , Torrado Juan J. , Otranto Domenico , Latrofa Maria S. , Miró Guadalupe
Published: February 2015

This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel free polyaggregated amphotericin B (FPA) formulation used to treat experimental canine leishmaniosis (CanL) caused by Leishmania infantum. Eight healthy beagles were intravenously challenged with 5×107 promastigotes per mL of L. infantum. One year after infection, they received an intravenous dose of FPA (5 mg/kg) every 2 weeks three times. Dogs were assessed monthly for clinical signs, serology, and parasite detection during a follow-up period of 6 months. Transient adverse effects (i.e., hypotension, diarrhea, bodyweight loss, fever, and asthenia) were observed within 24–48 hours after treatment in 4 animals. In three dogs mean clinical signs scores were reduced. Antibody titers measured by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) had significantly diminished at the end of the study, although according to bone marrow smears and cultures a high percentage of dogs tested positive for the parasite at 6 months posttreatment (PT6). Real-time quantitative PCR (rtQ-PCR) on blood, bone marrow, and urine samples revealed the presence of parasitic DNA in all animals at PT6, although blood loads of the parasite were reduced. These findings indicate that FPA at the dosing regimen used did not achieve clinical or parasitological cure in dogs experimentally infected with L. infantum.
Adventitial Alterations Are the Main Features in Pulmonary Artery Remodeling due to Long-Term Chronic Intermittent Hypobaric Hypoxia in Rats
Authors: Brito Julio , Siques Patricia , Arribas Silvia M. , López de Pablo Angel L. , González M. Carmen , Naveas Nelson , Arriaza Karem , Flores Karen , León-Velarde Fabiola , Pulido Ruth , Ordenes Stefany , López M. Rosario
Published: February 2015

Long-term chronic intermittent exposure to altitude hypoxia is a labor phenomenon requiring further research. Using a rat model, we examined whether this type of exposure differed from chronic exposure in terms of pulmonary artery remodeling and other features. Rats were subjected to chronic hypoxia (CH,n=9) and long-term intermittent hypoxia (CIH2x2; 2 days of hypoxia/2 days of normoxia,n=10) in a chamber (428 Torr, 4,600 m of altitude) for 46 days and compared to rats under normoxia (NX,n=10). Body weight, hematocrit, and right ventricle ratio were measured. Pulmonary artery remodeling was assessed using confocal microscopy of tissues stained with a nuclear dye (DAPI) and CD11b antibody. Both hypoxic conditions exhibited increased hematocrit and hypertrophy of the right ventricle, tunica adventitia, and tunica media, with no changes in lumen size. The medial hypertrophy area (larger in CH) depicted a significant increase in smooth muscle cell number. Additionally, CIH2x2 increased the adventitial hypertrophy area, with an increased cellularity and a larger prevalence of clustered inflammatory cells. In conclusion, CIH2x2 elicits milder effects on pulmonary artery medial layer muscularization and subsequent right ventricular hypertrophy than CH. However, CIH2x2 induces greater and characteristic alterations of the adventitial layer.
Productivity of Onions Using Subsurface Drip Irrigation versus Furrow Irrigation Systems with an Internet Based Irrigation Scheduling Program
Authors: Enciso Juan , Jifon John , Anciso Juan , Ribera Luis
Published: February 2015

Selection of the proper irrigation method will be advantageous to manage limited water supplies and increase crop profitability. The overall objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) and furrow irrigation on onion yield and irrigation use efficiency. This study was conducted in two locations, a commercial field and a field located at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center in Weslaco, TX. This study was conducted as a split-plot design for both sites with two treatments (SDI and furrow irrigation) and three replications per treatment. The total onion yield obtained with the SDI systems was more than 93% higher than the yield obtained with furrow irrigation systems. The large onion size was 181% higher for the SDI system than the furrow system in both sites. The colossal size yield was also higher. At one site colossal yield was 206% higher than furrow, while at another site furrow yielded no colossal onions and SDI had some production. It was concluded that drip irrigation systems more than double yields and increased onion size while using almost half of the water. This was due to SDI allowing for more frequent and smaller irrigation depths with higher irrigation efficiency than furrow irrigation systems.
Toll-Like Receptor-1 and Receptor-2 and Beta-Defensin in Postcholecystectomy Bile Duct Injury
Authors: Miranda-Díaz Alejandra Guillermina , Hermosillo-Sandoval José Manuel , Villanueva-Pérez Martha Arisbeth , Román-Pintos Luis Miguel , García-Iglesias Trinidad , Rodríguez-Carrizalez Adolfo Daniel , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto Germán
Published: February 2015

Postcholecystectomy bile duct injuries (BDI) produce hepatic cholestasis and cause infection of the biliary tract. The biliary cells participate in secreting cytokines and in expression of immune response receptors. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) conduct signalling and activate the innate and adaptive inflammatory response. The objective was to determine the serum levels of TLR-2 and the expression of TLR-1 and TLR-2 andβ-defensin in liver biopsies of postcholecystectomy BDI patients. A transverse, analytical study with 2 groups was done. One group included healthy volunteers (control group) and other included 25 postcholecystectomy BDI patients with complete biliary obstruction. Using the Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) technique, serum levels of TLR-2 were determined, and with immunofluorescence the morphologic analysis of TLR-1 and TLR-2 andβ-defensin in liver biopsies of postcholecystectomy BDI patients was performed. The average TLR-2 serum level in the control group was 0.0 pg/mL and in the BDI group,0.023±0.0045 pg/mL(P<0.0001, bilateral Mann WhitneyU). Immunofluorescence was used to determine the expression in liver biopsies, blood vessels, bile ducts, and hepatic parenchyma where 12 hepatic biopsies were positive for TLR-1 with average of3213057.74±1071019.25 μm2; and 7 biopsies were positive forβ-defensin with an average of730364.33±210838.02 μm2; and 6 biopsies positive for TLR-2, obtaining an average of3354364.24±838591.06 μm2. In conclusion, TLR-1 and TLR-2 andβ-defensin play an important role in the innate antimicrobial defense of the hepatobiliary system.
Health-Seeking Behaviors and Self-Care Practices of People with Filarial Lymphoedema in Nepal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Adhikari Ram Kumar , Sherchand Jeevan Bahadur , Mishra Shiva Raj , Ranabhat Kamal , Pokharel Amrit , Devkota Pramila , Mishra Durga , Ghimire Yadu Chandra , Gelal Khageshwor , Paudel Rajan , Wagle Rajendra Raj
Published: February 2015

Background. Lymphatic filariasis is endemic in Nepal. This study aimed to investigate health-seeking behaviors and self-care practices of people with filarial Lymphoedema in Nepal.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted using qualitative methods in three endemic districts. Twenty-three patients with current Lymphoedema were recruited in the study.Results. Hydrocele was found to be a well-known condition and a major health problem in the studied communities. People with Lymphoedema primarily sought health care from traditional healers, whereas sometimes home-based care was their first treatment. Later Ayurvedic and allopathic hospital-based care were sought. Respondents reported various psychological problems such as difficulty in engaging in sexual intercourse, anxiety, worry and stress, depression, low self-esteem, feeling weak, fear of being abandoned, and fear of transmitting disease to the children. Standard foot care practices except washing were largely absent.Conclusions. Lymphoedema in the limbs and hydrocele were found to be major health problems. The traditional health care providers were the first contact of care for the majority of respondents. Only a few patients had been practicing standard foot care practices.
A Discrete Method Based on the CE-SE Formulation for the Fractional Advection-Dispersion Equation
Authors: Jerez Silvia , Dzib Ivan
Published: February 2015

We obtain a numerical algorithm by using the space-time conservation element and solution element (CE-SE) method for the fractional advection-dispersion equation. The fractional derivative is defined by the Riemann-Liouville formula. We prove that the CE-SE approximation is conditionally stable under mild requirements. A numerical simulation is performed for the one-dimensional case by considering a benchmark with a discontinuous initial condition in order to compare the results with the analytical solution.
Behavior of a Free Dual-Spin Gyrostat with Different Ratios of Inertia Moments
Authors: Aslanov Vladimir
Published: February 2015

The attitude motion is studied of asymmetric dual-spin gyrostats which may be modeled as free systems of two rigid bodies, one asymmetric and one axisymmetric. Exact analytical solutions of the attitude motion are presented for all possible ratios of inertia moments of these bodies. The dynamics of free gyrostats with zero internal torque is considered. The dimensionless nonlinear equations of the gyrostat are written in Serret-Andoyer canonical variables. The previously known exact solutions are complemented by new several solutions in terms of Jacobi elliptic functions. The results of the study can be useful for the analysis of dual-spin spacecraft dynamics.
Clinical Strategies for Complete Denture Rehabilitation in a Patient with Parkinson Disease and Reduced Neuromuscular Control
Authors: Haralur Satheesh B.
Published: February 2015

The dentist has a large role in geriatric health care for the ever increasing elder population with associated physical and neurological disorders. The Parkinson disease is progressive neurological disorder with resting tremor, bradykinesia, akinesia, and postural instability. The psychological components of disease include depression, anxiety, and cognitive deficiency. Poor oral hygiene, increased susceptibility for dental caries, and periodontal diseases predispose them to early edentulism. The number of Parkinson affected patients visiting dental clinic seeking complete denture is growing. This case report explains the steps involved in the complete denture rehabilitation of Parkinson patient. The effective prosthesis will help in alleviating functional, aesthetic, and psychological disabilities of the patient.
Asymptomatic Atherosclerosis in Egyptian Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients and Its Relation to Disease Activity
Authors: Elshereef Rawhya R. , Darwish Aymen , Ali Amal , Abdel-kadar Mohammed , Hamdy Lamiaa
Published: February 2015

Aim. To detect the frequency of subclinical atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis patients without clinically evident atherosclerosis and to correlate its presence with the disease activity.Patients and Methods. Our study includes 112 RA patients (group 1) and 40 healthy controls (group 11). All patients and controls were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination, and laboratory investigations. Carotid intima media wall thickness (IMT) and carotid plaques were measured in both groups by B-mode ultrasonography; also color duplex Doppler ultrasound of the brachial artery was done to detect endothelial function.Results. There is atherosclerosis in 31.3% of asymptomatic RA patients compared with only 5% in controlsP=0.003**. A significant difference was detected in patients with and without atherosclerosis regarding duration of the diseaseP=0.0001***and patient’s ageP=0.01*. There is highly statistical significant correlation between atherosclerosis and disease activity index.Conclusion. The frequency of subclinical atherosclerosis was high in long-term active RA patients.
Unilateral Pedicle Stress Fracture in a Long-Term Hemodialysis Patient with Isthmic Spondylolisthesis
Authors: Maruo Keishi , Tachibana Toshiya , Inoue Shinichi , Arizumi Fumihiro , Yoshiya Shinichi
Published: February 2015

Most unilateral pedicle stress fractures occur on the contralateral side of patients with unilateral spondylolysis. However, there are few reports of unilateral pedicle stress fractures in patients with bilateral spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis. We report a unique case of unilateral pedicle stress fracture in a long-term hemodialysis patient with isthmic spondylolisthesis. A 65-year-old man who had undergone hemodialysis presented with lower back pain that had persisted for several years. The patient experienced severe right lower extremity pain with no history of trauma. Computed tomography revealed unilateral pedicle fracture with bilateral L5 spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis with progression of scoliosis. The patient underwent Gill laminectomy of L5 with pedicle screw fixation at L4-S1 and interbody fusion at L5-S1. The patient’s leg pain ceased immediately, and he began walking without leg pain. In our present patient, development of scoliosis caused by destructive spondyloarthropathy may have contributed to a unilateral pedicle fracture.
Abdominal Tumor in a 14-Year-Old Adolescent: Imperforate Hymen, Resulting in Hematocolpos—A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Makris George Marios , Macchiella Doris , Vaidakis Dennis , Chrelias Charalampos , Battista Marco Johannes , Siristatidis Charalampos
Published: February 2015

Background. Abdominal masses in female adolescents are uncommon. A rare cause of this condition is hematocolpos due to imperforate hymen.Case. We present a case of an unusually massive asymptomatic abdominal bulk in a 14-year-old female patient, who sought for medical advice after unusual abdominal pain lasting for few weeks. The patient was otherwise asymptomatic, apart from an unusual dramatic expansion of her abdominal wall during the last month. We describe the surgical management and the follow-up of the patient.Summary and Conclusion. Clinicians should keep in mind that an imperforate hymen can cause abdominal growth due to hematocolpos and include it in the differential diagnosis of such a clinical entity in female adolescents. 2D ultrasound is usually efficient for the confirmation of the diagnosis of hematocolpos, but 3D ultrasound is more accurate. Wide excision should be undertaken, as an initial approach, to avoid recurrence.
Leishmaniasis in Central Morocco: Seasonal Fluctuations of Phlebotomine Sand Fly in Aichoun Locality, from Sefrou Province
Authors: Talbi Fatima Zahra , El Ouali Lalami Abdelhakim , Janati Idrissi Abdellatif , Sebti Faiza , Faraj Chafika
Published: February 2015

Cutaneous leishmaniases (CL) are endemic in Morocco. They are common in the human population in different localities such as Aichoun in Sefrou province, Morocco. This study was carried out in Aichoun locality from April to October 2012 in order to study the spatiotemporal trends of the main Leishmania phlebotomine vectors in this focus. Overall, 1171 sand flies, belonging to four species, were collected by sticky traps. Phlebotomus sergenti was the predominant species (78.4%) followed by Ph. perniciosus (10.5%), Ph. papatasi (7.94%), and Ph. longicuspis (3.16%). Sandflies were active during 6 months (May–October). Ph. sergenti, Ph. perniciosus, and Ph. papatasi displayed a bimodal distribution with a first peak in July and a second peak in September, while Ph. longicuspis showed a monophasic trend with a peak in August. The high abundance and the lengthy period of activity of Ph. sergenti and Ph. perniciosus, vectors of L. tropica and L. infantum, respectively, are a cause for concern as they indicate the high potential risk of Leishmania transmission in the studied areas.
A New Technique for Quantitative Determination of Dexamethasone in Pharmaceutical and Biological Samples Using Kinetic Spectrophotometric Method
Authors: Akhoundi-Khalafi Ali Mohammad , Shishehbore Masoud Reza
Published: February 2015

Dexamethasone is a type of steroidal medications that is prescribed in many cases. In this study, a new reaction system using kinetic spectrophotometric method for quantitative determination of dexamethasone is proposed. The method is based on the catalytic effect of dexamethasone on the oxidation of Orange G by bromate in acidic media. The change in absorbance as a criterion of the oxidation reaction progress was followed spectrophotometrically. To obtain the maximum sensitivity, the effective reaction variables were optimized. Under optimized experimental conditions, calibration graph was linear over the range 0.2–54.0 mg L−1. The calculated detection limit (3sb/m) was 0.14 mg L−1for six replicate determinations of blank signal. The interfering effect of various species was also investigated. The present method was successfully applied for the determination of dexamethasone in pharmaceutical and biological samples satisfactorily.
Alternative Therapy for Epstein-Barr Virus Related Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Al Asad Omar , Salam Amir , Mannem Siva , Ninan Mary , Markowitz Avi , Jana Bagi
Published: February 2015

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rapidly fatal condition characterized by excessive immune activation. HLH can occur as a familial or sporadic acquired disorder. Acquired HLH is more frequently found in adults and is commonly secondary to infections, malignancies, or autoimmune diseases. Diagnosing HLH is challenging because of the rare occurrence, variable presentation, and nonspecific findings of this disorder. Diagnosis of HLH can be based on the diagnostic criteria which were used in the HLH-2004 trial. Given the rarity of this disease, protocols for its treatment have developed slowly, and obtaining adequate short-term and long-term control of the disease continues to be a challenge. Conventional induction therapy for HLH is dexamethasone and etoposide (VP-16), followed by or with cyclosporine. Intrathecal methotrexate ± hydrocortisone is given to those with central nervous system disease. We are reporting a patient who was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) related HLH. He achieved complete remission with rituximab alone. To our knowledge, this is the first case of an adult patient with EBV related HLH who went into remission with rituximab therapy alone, without using the conventional chemotherapy.
Relation between Upwelling Intensity and the Variability of Physical and Chemical Parameters in the Southern Benguela Upwelling System
Authors: Ismail Hassan Ebrahiem , Agenbag Johannes Jacobus , de Villiers Stephanie , Ximba Bhekumusa Jabulani
Published: February 2015

The extent to which wind-driven seasonal upwelling cycles manifest in surface ocean temperature and nutrient variability along a monitoring line in the Southern Benguela upwelling system was investigated. Monitoring conducted monthly over a six-year period shows that surface temperature and nutrient concentrations exhibit very poor seasonality and weak correlation with the upwelling index. This is, despite clear evidence for spatial inshore-offshore gradients in temperature, nutrients, and chlorophyll, consistent with an upwelling regime. The upper ocean temperature gradient shows a much better correspondence to the upwelling index but at the same time demonstrates that surface heating, and not vertical mixing related to upwelling, controls the upper ocean temperature gradient. The results suggest that remote sensing techniques would be inadequate tools to monitor upwelling events in the Southern Benguela. Also, the incidence of phytoplankton blooms is more likely triggered by stratified conditions associated with surface heating than relaxation of upwelling winds.
Prolonged Emergency Department Length of Stay as a Predictor of Adverse Outcomes in Patients with Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Jones Erica M. , Boehme Amelia K. , Aysenne Aimee , Chang Tiffany , Albright Karen C. , Burns Christopher , Beasley T. Mark , Martin-Schild Sheryl
Published: February 2015

Objectives. Extended time in the emergency department (ED) has been related to adverse outcomes among stroke patients. We examined the associations of ED nursing shift change (SC) and length of stay in the ED with outcomes in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Methods. Data were collected on all spontaneous ICH patients admitted to our stroke center from 7/1/08–6/30/12. Outcomes (frequency of pneumonia, modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge, NIHSS score at discharge, and mortality rate) were compared based on shift change experience and length of stay (LOS) dichotomized at 5 hours after arrival. Results. Of the 162 patients included, 60 (37.0%) were present in the ED during a SC. The frequency of pneumonia was similar in the two groups. Exposure to an ED SC was not a significant independent predictor of any outcome. LOS in the ED ≥5 hours was a significant independent predictor of discharge mRS 4–6 (OR 3.638, 95% CI 1.531–8.645, and P = 0.0034) and discharge NIHSS (OR 3.049, 95% CI 1.491–6.236, and P = 0.0023) but not death. Conclusions. Our study found no association between nursing SC and adverse outcome in patients with ICH but confirms the prior finding of worsened outcome after prolonged length of stay in the ED.
A Lane-Level LBS System for Vehicle Network with High-Precision BDS/GPS Positioning
Authors: Guo Chi , Guo Wenfei , Cao Guangyi , Dong Hongbo
Published: February 2015

In recent years, research on vehicle network location service has begun to focus on its intelligence and precision. The accuracy of space-time information has become a core factor for vehicle network systems in a mobile environment. However, difficulties persist in vehicle satellite positioning since deficiencies in the provision of high-quality space-time references greatly limit the development and application of vehicle networks. In this paper, we propose a high-precision-based vehicle network location service to solve this problem. The major components of this study include the following: (1) application of wide-area precise positioning technology to the vehicle network system. An adaptive correction message broadcast protocol is designed to satisfy the requirements for large-scale target precise positioning in the mobile Internet environment; (2) development of a concurrence service system with a flexible virtual expansion architecture to guarantee reliable data interaction between vehicles and the background; (3) verification of the positioning precision and service quality in the urban environment. Based on this high-precision positioning service platform, a lane-level location service is designed to solve a typical traffic safety problem.
Acoustic-Frequency Vibratory Stimulation Regulates the Balance between Osteogenesis and Adipogenesis of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Chen Xi , He Fan , Zhong Dong-Yan , Luo Zong-Ping
Published: February 2015

Osteoporosis can be associated with the disordered balance between osteogenesis and adipogenesis of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs). Although low-frequency mechanical vibration has been demonstrated to promote osteogenesis, little is known about the influence of acoustic-frequency vibratory stimulation (AFVS). BM-MSCs were subjected to AFVS at frequencies of 0, 30, 400, and 800 Hz and induced toward osteogenic or adipogenic-specific lineage. Extracellular matrix mineralization was determined by Alizarin Red S staining and lipid accumulation was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Transcript levels of osteogenic and adipogenic marker genes were evaluated by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation of BM-MSCs was promoted following exposure to AFVS at 800 Hz. Vibration at 800 Hz induced the highest level of calcium deposition and significantly increased mRNA expression ofCOL1A1,ALP,RUNX2, andSPP1. The 800 Hz group downregulated lipid accumulation and levels of adipogenic genes, includingFABP4,CEBPA,PPARG, andLEP, while vibration at 30 Hz supported adipogenesis. BM-MSCs showed a frequency-dependent response to acoustic vibration. AFVS at 800 Hz was the most favorable for osteogenic differentiation and simultaneously suppressed adipogenesis. Thus, acoustic vibration could potentially become a novel means to prevent and treat osteoporosis.
Temperature Induced Aggregation and Clouding in Humic Acid Solutions
Authors: Shaffer Leah , von Wandruszka Ray
Published: February 2015

Humic acids in aqueous solution demonstrate inverse temperature-solubility relationships when solution conditions are manipulated to reduce coulombic repulsion among the humic polyanions. These effects were followed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements of the resulting aggregates, as well as the addition of a polarity sensitive fluorescent probe (pyrene). The humic solutions could be primed for temperature induced clouding by carefully lowering the pH to a point where hydration effects became dominant. The exact value of the cloud point (CP) was a function of both pH and humate concentration. The CPs mostly lay in the range 50–90°C, but DLS showed that temperature induced aggregation proceeded from approximately 30°C onward. Similar effects could be achieved by adding multivalent cations at concentrations below those which cause spontaneous precipitation. The declouding of clouded humate solutions could be affected by lowering the temperature combined with mechanical agitation to disentangle the humic polymers.
Resistance to Fracture of Dental Roots Obturated with Different Materials
Authors: Celikten Berkan , Uzuntas Ceren Feriha , Gulsahi Kamran
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to compare the vertical fracture resistance of roots obturated with different root canal filling materials and sealers. Crowns of 55 extracted mandibular premolar teeth were removed to provide root lengths of 13 mm. Five roots were saved as negative control group (canals unprepared and unfilled). Fifty root canals were instrumented and then five roots were saved as positive control group (canals prepared but unfilled). The remaining 45 roots were randomly divided into three experimental groups (n=15root/group) and obturated with the following procedures: in group 1, glass ionomer-based sealer and cone (ActiV GP obturation system); in group 2, bioceramic sealer and cone (EndoSequence BC obturation system); and in group 3, roots were filled with bioceramic sealer and cone (Smartpaste bio obturation system). All specimens were tested in a universal testing machine for measuring fracture resistance. For each root, the force at the time of fracture was recorded in Newtons. The statistical analysis was performed by using Kruskal-Wallis and post hoc test. There were no significant differences between the three experimental groups. The fracture values of three experimental and negative control groups were significantly higher than the positive control group. Within the limitations of this study, all materials increased the fracture resistance of instrumented roots.
Hip Arthroplasty in a Patient with Transfemoral Amputation: A New Tip
Authors: Boussakri Hassan , Alassaf Ihab , Hamoudi Samir , Elibrahimi Abdelhalim , Ntarataz Philbert , ELMrini Abdelmajid , Dumez Jean Francois
Published: February 2015

Femoral fractures in amputation stump are challenging injuries to manage. The authors describe a case of a 51-year-old patient with a right above knee amputation, who had a right hip femoral neck fracture. In this technical note, we describe a technical and surgical procedure with intraoperative tips and tricks, in which we use commonly available materials, for the safe management in such clinical situations.
The Ellipsoidal Vortex: A Novel Approach to Geophysical Turbulence
Authors: McKiver William J.
Published: February 2015

We review the development of the ellipsoidal vortex model within the field of geophysical fluid dynamics. This vortex model is built on the classical potential theory of ellipsoids and applies to large-scale fluid flows, such as those found in the atmosphere and oceans, where the dynamics are strongly affected by the Earth's rotation. In this large-scale limit the governing equations reduce to the quasi-geostrophic system, where all the dynamics depends on a single scalar field, the potential vorticity, which is a dynamical marker for vortices. The solution of this system is achieved by the inversion of a Poisson equation, that in the case of an ellipsoidal vortex can be solved exactly. From this ellipsoidal solution equilibria have been determined and their stability properties have been studied. Many studies have shown that this ellipsoidal vortex model, while being conceptually simple, is an extremely powerful tool in eliciting some of the fundamental characteristics of turbulent geophysical flows.
Guided Electromagnetic Waves Propagating in a Two-Layer Cylindrical Dielectric Waveguide with Inhomogeneous Nonlinear Permittivity
Authors: Smol’kin E. Yu. , Valovik D. V.
Published: February 2015

The paper focuses on the problem of monochromatic electromagnetic TM wave propagation in a two-layer circular cylindrical dielectric waveguide. The space outside the waveguide is filled with isotropic medium having constant permittivity. The inner core of the waveguide is filled with isotropic medium having constant permittivity; the cladding of the core is filled with isotropic inhomogeneous nonlinear permittivity (the nonlinear term is expressed by Kerr law). Existence of guided modes which depend harmonically onz(the waveguide axis coincides withz-axis) is proved and their localization is found. Numerical results including different type of nonlinearities are presented. A comparison with the linear case is given. The existence of a new propagation regime is predicted.
A Brief Observational History of the Black-Hole Spacetimes
Authors: Kundt Wolfgang
Published: February 2015

In this year (2015), black holes (BHs) celebrate their 100th birthday, if their birth is taken to be triggered by a handwritten letter from Martin Schwarzschild to Albert Einstein, in connection with his newly found spherically symmetric vacuum solution.
Neobenedenia melleni-Specific Antibodies Are Associated with Protection after Continuous Exposure in Mozambique Tilapia
Authors: Kishimori Jennifer M. , Takemura Akihiro , Leong Jo-Ann C.
Published: February 2015

Neobenedenia melleniis a significant monogenean pathogen of fish in aquaculture facilities and public aquaria. Immunity after exposure to liveN. melleniis well established, but the mechanisms of immunity remain unclear. In this study, tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) were continuously exposed toN. melleniover a four-month period and assessed for immunity as determined by a reduction in the number of parasites dislodged from the experimental animals during freshwater immersion. Specific mucosal and systemic antibody levels were by determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. At 45 days postexposure (DPE), fish displayed high parasite loads and baseline levels of mucosal antibodies. At 102 and 120 DPE parasite loads were significantly decreased, and antibody levels were significantly increased for mucus and plasma samples. The correlation between immunity (reduction in parasite load) and an increased humoral antibody response suggests a key role of antibody in the immune response. This is the first report of immunity againstN. mellenithat is associated with specific mucosal or systemic antibodies.