bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the Van Der Waals loop: What can be learned from simulating Lennard-Jones fluids inside the region of phase coexistence
Authors: Binder Kurt , Block Benjamin J. , Virnau Peter , Tröster Andreas
Published: November 2012

As a rule, mean-field theories applied to a fluid that can undergo a transition from saturated vapor at density ρυ to a liquid at density ρℓ yield a van der Waals loop. For example, isotherms of the chemical potential μ(T,ρ) as a function of the density ρ at a fixed temperature T less than the critical temperature Tc exhibit a maximum and a minimum. Metastable and unstable parts of the van der Waals loop can be eliminated by the Maxwell construction. Van der Waals loops and the corresponding double minimum potentials are mean-field artifacts. Simulations at fixed μ=μcoex for ρυ<ρ<ρℓ yield a loop, but for sufficiently large systems this loop does not resemble the van der Waals loop and reflects interfacial effects on phase coexistence due to finite size effects. In contrast to the van der Waals loop, all parts of the loop found in simulations are thermodynamically stable. The successive umbrella sampling algorithm is described as a convenient tool for seeing these effects. It is shown that the maximum of the loop is not the stability limit of a metastable vapor but signifies the droplet evaporation-condensation transition. The descending part of the loop contains information on Tolman-like corrections to the surface tension, rather than describing unstable states.
Body Cues, Not Facial Expressions, Discriminate Between Intense Positive and Negative Emotions
Authors: Aviezer Hillel , Trope Yaacov , Todorov Alexander
Published: November 2012

Joy or Pain?

Face recognition and processing are so completely central to human social interactions that these functions are supported by specialized regions in the brain. One of the fundamental aspects being processed is emotion, particularly whether the emotion being expressed is positive or negative. Nevertheless, neuroimaging studies have documented that perceiving opposite emotions often activates the same or overlapping regions.

Aviezer
et al.

(p.
1225
) report that the recognition of positive versus negative emotions actually relies on information communicated by the body—the extent to which perceivers identified joy versus grief in composite figures was driven by whether the body came from a joyous (versus grievous) image rather than the face.
Formation of Regular Satellites from Ancient Massive Rings in the Solar System
Authors: Crida A. , Charnoz S.
Published: November 2012

An analytical model suggests that the terrestrial and giant planets in the solar system formed moons through a similar process.
Evolutionary Role of Interspecies Hybridization and Genetic Exchanges in Yeasts
Authors: Morales Lucia , Dujon Bernard
Published: November 2012

Forced interspecific hybridization has been used in yeasts for many years to study speciation or to construct artificial strains with novel fermentative and metabolic properties. Recent genome analyses indicate that natural hybrids are also generated spontaneously between yeasts belonging to distinct species, creating lineages with novel phenotypes, varied genetic stability, or altered virulence in the case of pathogens. Large segmental introgressions from evolutionarily distant species are also visible in some yeast genomes, suggesting that interspecific genetic exchanges occur during evolution. The origin of this phenomenon remains unclear, but it is likely based on weak prezygotic barriers, limited Dobzhansky-Muller (DM) incompatibilities, and rapid clonal expansions. Newly formed interspecies hybrids suffer rapid changes in the genetic contribution of each parent, including chromosome loss or aneuploidy, translocations, and loss of heterozygosity, that, except in a few recently studied cases, remain to be characterized more precisely at the genomic level by use of modern technologies. We review here known cases of natural or artificially formed interspecies hybrids between yeasts and discuss their potential importance in terms of genome evolution. Problems of meiotic fertility, ploidy constraint, gene and gene product compatibility, and nucleomitochondrial interactions are discussed and placed in the context of other known mechanisms of yeast genome evolution as a model for eukaryotes.
Prison Break: Pathogens' Strategies To Egress from Host Cells
Authors: Friedrich Nikolas , Hagedorn Monica , Soldati-Favre Dominique , Soldati Thierry
Published: November 2012

A wide spectrum of pathogenic bacteria and protozoa has adapted to an intracellular life-style, which presents several advantages, including accessibility to host cell metabolites and protection from the host immune system. Intracellular pathogens have developed strategies to enter and exit their host cells while optimizing survival and replication, progression through the life cycle, and transmission. Over the last decades, research has focused primarily on entry, while the exit process has suffered from neglect. However, pathogen exit is of fundamental importance because of its intimate association with dissemination, transmission, and inflammation. Hence, to fully understand virulence mechanisms of intracellular pathogens at cellular and systemic levels, it is essential to consider exit mechanisms to be a key step in infection. Exit from the host cell was initially viewed as a passive process, driven mainly by physical stress as a consequence of the explosive replication of the pathogen. It is now recognized as a complex, strategic process termed “egress,” which is just as well orchestrated and temporally defined as entry into the host and relies on a dynamic interplay between host and pathogen factors. This review compares egress strategies of bacteria, pathogenic yeast, and kinetoplastid and apicomplexan parasites. Emphasis is given to recent advances in the biology of egress in mycobacteria and apicomplexans.
A cross-sectional survey and service evaluation of simple telehealth in primary care: what do patients think?
Authors: Cottrell Elizabeth , McMillan Kate , Chambers Ruth
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine the patient experience of using a simple telehealth strategy to manage hypertension in adults.

Design

As part of a pragmatic service evaluation, the acceptability of, satisfaction with and ease of use of a simple telehealth strategy was determined via text, cross-sectional questionnaire survey administered by telephone, case studies, discussion groups and informal feedback from practices. This simple telehealth approach required patients to take home blood pressure (BP) readings and text them to a secure server (‘Florence’) for immediate automatic analysis and individual healthcare professional review.

Participants

124 intervention patients who used the Florence system.

Setting

10 volunteer general practitioner's (GP) practices in Stoke on Trent, UK, with poor health and high levels of material deprivation took part.

Results

Patient satisfaction was high. In particular, patients found the system easy to use, were very satisfied about the feedback from their GP regarding their BP readings, found the advice sent via Florence useful and preferred to send BP readings using Florence rather than having to go to the practice monthly to get BP checked. Overall satisfaction with the system was 4.81/5.00 at week 13 of the programme. Other advantages of being enrolled with Florence were improved education about hypertension, a greater feeling of support and companionship and flexibility which allowed self-care to occur at a time that suited the patient rather than their practice.

Conclusions

This simple telehealth strategy for managing hypertension in the community was met with high levels of patient satisfaction and feelings of control and support. This management approach should thus be considered for widespread implementation for clinical management of hypertension and other long-term conditions involving monitoring of patients’ bodily measurements and symptoms as a large number of meaningful readings can be obtained from many patients in a prompt, efficient, interactive and acceptable way.
Inter‐dog aggression in a UK owner survey: prevalence, co‐occurrence in different contexts and risk factors
Authors: Casey R. A. , Loftus B. , Bolster C. , Richards G. J. , Blackwell E. J.
Published: November 2012

Aggression between dogs is common and can result in injury. The aims of this study were to estimate prevalence, evaluate co‐occurrence with human‐directed aggression, and investigate potential risk factors, using a cross‐sectional convenience sample of dog owners. Aggression (barking, lunging, growling or biting) towards unfamiliar dogs was reported to currently occur, by 22 per cent of owners, and towards other dogs in the household, by 8 per cent. A low level of concordance between dog and human‐directed aggression suggested most dogs were not showing aggression in multiple contexts. Aggression towards other dogs in the household was associated with increasing dog age, use of positive punishment/negative reinforcement training techniques, and attending ring‐craft classes. Aggression towards other dogs on walks was associated with location of questionnaire distribution, owner age, age of dog, origin of dog, dog breed type, use of positive punishment/negative reinforcement training techniques and attending obedience classes for more than four weeks. In both, the amount of variance explained by models was low (<15 per cent), suggesting that unmeasured factors mostly accounted for differences between groups. These results suggest general characteristics of dogs and owners which contribute to intraspecific aggression, but also highlight that these are relatively minor predictors.
Microstructural properties and pozzolanic activity of calcined kaolins as supplementary cementing materials
Authors: Güneyisi Erhan , Gesoǧlu Mehmet , Özturan Turan , Mermerdaş Kasım
Published: November 2012

In this study, the utilization of unprocessed kaolins calcined at various temperatures as supplementary cementing material was investigated experimentally. The current work deals with four kaolin deposits existing in the western region of Turkey that have not yet been investigated for this purpose. Thermal properties of the unprocessed kaolins were examined by means of differential thermal and thermo gravimetric analysis. After determination of the thermal behavior, pozzolanic activity indices of the kaolins were determined according to ASTM C311. Based on the pozzolanic activity test results, calcination temperatures were assigned for kaolins and the changes in the mineralogical composition and the formation of amorphous structures were examined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The changes in particle size and specific surface area of the calcined kaolin minerals were observed through, particle size analysis with laser diffractometer, Scanning electron microscopy image analysis, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller specific surface area measurement. The results showed that a complete kaolinite to metakaolinite conversion was achieved by the calcination procedure adopted.
Melanogenesis in visceral tissues ofSalmo salar. A link between immunity and pigment production?
Authors: Arciuli Marcella , Fiocco Daniela , Cicero Rosina , Maida Immacolata , Zanna Paola T. , Guida Gabriella , Horsberg Tor E. , Koppang Erling O. , Gallone Anna
Published: November 2012

Melanogenesis is mostly studied in melanocytes and melanoma cells, but much less is known about other pigment cell systems. Liver, spleen, kidney, and other organs of lower vertebrates harbour a visceral pigment cell system with an embryonic origin that differs from that of melanocytes. In teleosts, melanin-containing cells occur in the reticulo-endothelial system and are mainly in the kidney and spleen. The Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar L.) is an ichthyic breeding species of considerable economic importance. The accumulation of pigments in salmon visceral organs and musculature adversely affects the quality of fish products and is a problem for the aquaculture industry. With the aim to reveal novel functions and behaviour of the salmonid extracutaneous pigment system, we investigated aspects of the melanogenic systems in the tissues of Atlantic salmon, as well as in SHK-1 cells, which is a long-term cell line derived from macrophages of the Atlantic salmon head-kidney. We demonstrate that a melanogenic system is present in SHK-1 cells, head-kidney, and spleen tissues. As teleosts lack lymph nodes and Peyer’s patches, the head-kidney and spleen are regarded as the most important secondary lymphoid organs. The detection of tyrosinase activity in lymphoid organs indicates that a link exists between the extracutaneous pigmentary system and the immune system in salmon.
Training-induced alterations of skeletal muscle mitochondrial biogenesis proteins in non-insulin-dependent type 2 diabetic men
Authors: Chung Nana , Kreutz Thorsten , Schiffer Thorsten , Opitz David , Hermann Robin , Gehlert Sebastian , Bloch Wilhelm , Brixius Klara , Brinkmann Christian
Published: November 2012

This study investigates whether regular physical activity (moderate endurance or resistance training twice a week for 3 months) influences the key regulatory molecules of mitochondrial biogenesis (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1α (PGC1α), nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF1), and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM)) in patients suffering from non-insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (n = 16, years = 62 ± 7, body mass index (BMI) = 30 ± 4 kg/m2). Seven T2DM men took part in endurance training, and 9 men participated in resistance training. BMI-matched non-diabetic male control subjects (CON) (n = 7, years = 53 ± 6, BMI = 30 ± 4 kg/m2) were studied for comparison. The protein contents of PGC1α, NRF1, and TFAM were determined using immunohistochemical staining methods on biopsies taken from the musculus vastus lateralis. At baseline, no differences were observed in NRF1-density between the T2DM men and the CON, while the contents of PGC1α and TFAM were decreased in the T2DM men. PGC1α and TFAM contents were not changed in the T2DM patients after the training period, but NRF1 was decreased. The down-regulation of mitochondrial signaling molecules might explain the patho-physiological reduction in mitochondrial biogenesis found in T2DM. Physical training, as performed in our study, did not reverse the down-regulation of mitochondrial signaling molecules — at least not at 3 months after the training.
COLLABORATECOM SPECIAL ISSUE ANALYZING DISTRIBUTED WHITEBOARD INTERACTIONS
Authors: GERICKE LUTZ , GUMIENNY RAJA , MEINEL CHRISTOPH
Published: November 2012

We present the digital whiteboard system Tele-Board, which automatically captures all interactions made on the all-digital whiteboard and thus offers possibilities for a fast interpretation of usage characteristics. Analyzing team work at whiteboards is a time-consuming and error-prone process if manual interpretation techniques are applied. In a case study, we demonstrate how to conduct and analyze whiteboard experiments with the help of our system. The study investigates the role of video compared to an audio-only connection for distributed work settings. With the simplified analysis of communication data, we can prove that the video teams were more active than the audio teams and the distribution of whiteboard interaction between team members was more balanced. This way, an automatic analysis can not only support manual observations and codings, but also give insights that cannot be achieved with other systems. Beyond the overall view on one sessions focusing on key figures, it is also possible to find out more about the internal structure of a session.
A FINITE ELEMENT STUDY OF DIFFUSION-INDUCED MECHANICS IN LI-ION BATTERY ELECTRODE MATERIALS
Authors: VANIMISETTI SAMPATH K. , RAMAKRISHNAN N.
Published: November 2012

In this paper, a Finite Element (FE) framework for studying diffusion induced mechanics of Li-ion battery electrode materials is presented. In a previous study [Vanimisetti and Ramakrishnan (2011), Proc. IMechE, Part C: J. Mech. Eng. Sci. 0954406211432668], a set of analytical expressions for the stress distribution in ideal geometries, such as slab and cylindrical shaped particles, were derived using thermal stress analogy while solutions for spherical particles already exist. However, the limitations of the analytical study in handling complex geometries, the material behavior and the functional parameters necessitated the development of an FE model based approach. A multi-physics model was developed in COMSOL® package linking diffusion phenomenon to stress development. The model was verified comparing the results with those of the earlier analytical studies. As an illustration, we use the model to make inferences with regard to the effect of electrode particle shape. Along similar lines, the diffusion-induced mechanics in silicon rod structures grown on copper current collector is also demonstrated.
Levels of abstraction
Authors: Guzdial Mark , Robertson Judy
Published: November 2012

The
Communications
Web site, http://cacm.acm.org, features more than a dozen bloggers in the BLOG@CACM community. In each issue of
Communications
, we'll publish selected posts or excerpts.

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http://cacm.acm.org/blogs/blog-cacm

Mark Guzdial writes about the need for programming languages to support multimedia at all levels. Judy Robertson shares insights about 12-year-old students' lack of understanding about computer science.
Saving private Gromit
Authors: Anderson David
Published: November 2012

Reflections on the legalities and economics of preserving animations and games in Europe.
Puzzled: Solutions and sources
Authors: Winkler Peter
Published: November 2012

Last month (November 2012) we posted a trio of brainteasers concerning the use of a balance scale to determine the weight of various numbers of coins. Here, we offer solutions to all three. How did you do?
Software Licenses - A tool to control distribution of software
Authors: Sharma Vineet , Rizvi S. A.M. , Sharma Arun
Published: November 2012

The International Workshop on Developing Tools as Plug-Ins (TOPI) is a venue for researchers and practitioners interested in plug-in development. The main interest is understanding the opportunities and challenges of developing tools as plug-ins, and thus, we seek for discussions regarding the characteristics of good plug-ins, interoperability requirements to making tools available across platforms, recent successful tools as plug-ins as well as foreseen medium and long term challenges of tools as plug-ins. The second edition of this workshop, TOPI 2012 was co-located with the International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2012). TOPI 2012 received a total of 32 submissions. Among them, 14 were accepted as full papers and 4 as short papers. The audience during the whole workshop ranged from 25 to 30 participants. The final program comprised position papers including new proposals for plug-in architectures as well as their interaction with development environments and run-times, and papers discussing the implementation of different kind of tools as plug-ins. This report describes the main results of TOPI 2012.
AI for the win
Authors: Hofer Birgit , Wotawa Franz , Abreu Rui
Published: November 2012

A considerable amount of time in software engineering is spent in debugging. In practice, mainly debugging tools which allow for executing a program step-by-step and setting break points are used. This debugging method is however very time consuming and cumbersome. There is a need for tools which undertake the task of narrowing down the most likely fault locations. These tools must complete this task with as little user interaction as possible and the results computed must be beneficial so that such tools appeal to programmers. In order to come up with such tools, we present three variants of the well-known spectrum-based fault localization technique that are enhanced by using methods from Artificial Intelligence. Each of the three combined approaches outperforms the underlying basic method concerning diagnostic accuracy. Hence, the presented approaches support the hypothesis that combining techniques from different areas is beneficial. In addition to the introduction of these techniques, we perform an empirical evaluation, discuss open challenges of debugging and outline possible solutions.
Verifying android applications using Java PathFinder
Authors: van der Merwe Heila , van der Merwe Brink , Visser Willem
Published: November 2012

Mobile application testing is a specialised and complex field. Due to mobile applications' event driven design and mobile runtime environment, there currently exist only a small number of tools to verify these applications. This paper describes the development of JPF-ANDROID, an Android application verification tool. JPF-ANDROID is built on Java Pathfinder, a Java model checking engine. JPF-ANDROID provides a simplified model of the Android framework on which an Android application can run. It then allows the user to script input events to drive the application flow. JPF-ANDROID provides a way to detect common property violations such as deadlocks and runtime exceptions in Android applications.
Hindbrain mineralocorticoid mechanisms on sodium appetite
Authors: Formenti Silmara , Bassi Mirian , Nakamura Natália B. , Schoorlemmer Guus H. M. , Menani José V. , Colombari Eduardo
Published: November 2012

Aldosterone acting on the brain stimulates sodium appetite and sympathetic activity by mechanisms that are still not completely clear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic infusion of aldosterone and acute injection of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist RU 28318 into the fourth ventricle (4th V) on sodium appetite. Male Wistar rats (280–350 g) with a stainless-steel cannula in either the 4th V or lateral ventricle (LV) were used. Daily intake of 0.3 M NaCl increased to 46 ± 15 and 130 ± 6 ml/24 h after 6 days of infusion of 10 and 100 ng/h of aldosterone into the 4th V (intake with vehicle infusion: 2 ± 1 ml/24 h). Water intake fell slightly and not consistently, and food intake was not affected by aldosterone. Sodium appetite induced by diuretic (furosemide) combined with 24 h of a low-sodium diet fell from 12 ± 1.7 ml/2 h to 5.6 ± 0.8 ml/2 h after injection of the MR antagonist RU 28318 (100 ng/2 μl) into the 4th V. RU 28318 also reduced the intake of 0.3 M NaCl induced by 9 days of a low-sodium diet from 9.5 ± 2.6 ml/2 h to 1.2 ± 0.6 ml/2 h. Infusion of 100 or 500 ng/h of aldosterone into the LV did not affect daily intake of 0.3 M NaCl. The results are functional evidence that aldosterone acting on MR in the hindbrain activates a powerful mechanism involved in the control of sodium appetite.
Longitudinal sleep EEG trajectories indicate complex patterns of adolescent brain maturation
Authors: Feinberg Irwin , Campbell Ian G.
Published: November 2012

New longitudinal sleep data spanning ages 6–10 yr are presented and combined with previous data to analyze maturational trajectories of delta and theta EEG across ages 6–18 yr in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. NREM delta power (DP) increased from age 6 to age 8 yr and then declined. Its highest rate of decline occurred between ages 12 and 16.5 yr. We attribute the delta EEG trajectories to changes in synaptic density. Whatever their neuronal underpinnings, these age curves can guide research into the molecular-genetic mechanisms that underlie adolescent brain development. The DP trajectories in NREM and REM sleep differed strikingly. DP in REM did not initially increase but declined steadily from age 6 to age 16 yr. We hypothesize that the DP decline in REM reflects maturation of the same brain arousal systems that eliminate delta waves in waking EEG. Whereas the DP age curves differed in NREM and REM sleep, theta age curves were similar in both, roughly paralleling the age trajectory of REM DP. The different maturational curves for NREM delta and theta indicate that they serve different brain functions despite having similar within-sleep dynamics and responses to sleep loss. Period-amplitude analysis of NREM and REM delta waveforms revealed that the age trends in DP were driven more by changes in wave amplitude rather than incidence. These data further document the powerful and complex link between sleep and brain maturation. Understanding this relationship would shed light on both brain development and the function of sleep.
Christ-Siemens-Touraine Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mokhtari Sepideh , Mokhtari Saeedeh , Lotfi Ali
Published: November 2012

Ectodermal dysplasia is a rare disorder with defects in two or more of the following structures: the teeth and the skin and its appendages including hair, nails, eccrine, and sebaceous glands. Anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia is the most common type of disease. This rare disorder, also known as Christ-Siemens-Touraine syndrome, manifests as a triad of hypotrichosis, asteatosis, and anhidrosis. In view of the rarity of this entity, a classical case of anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia is reported. We have also provided a review of recent investigations in the area of dental abnormalities in this syndrome.
Role of Bedside Ultrasound in CMV Retinitis: A Case Report
Authors: Westafer Lauren , Nickels L. Connor , Flach Eike , De Portu Giuliano , Stead Latha Ganti
Published: November 2012

We present a case of retinal detachment diagnosed by emergency department bedside ultrasonography in a patient with CMV retinitis. The indications and findings of ocular ultrasonography are discussed.
Efficacy of Chuanxiong Ding Tong Herbal Formula Granule in the Treatment and Prophylactic of Migraine Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Fu Caihong , Yu Lihua , Zou Yihuai , Cao Kegang , Zhao Jianjun , Gong Haiyang , Zhang Shuquan , Lin Anji , Dong Mengjiu , Yang Wenming , Li Tao , He Liyun , Su Fei , Wu Ruolan , Lin Dongdong
Published: November 2012

Objective.To evaluate the efficacy of traditional Chinese herbal ChuanXiong Ding Tong herbal formula granule (CXDT-HFG) for migraine patients with “the Syndrome of Liver Wind and Blood Stasis.”Methods.150 migraine patients were recruited and assigned randomly in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study to receive CXDT-HFG (n=99) plus necessary analgesics, or placebo (n=51) plus necessary analgesics for 16 weeks (12 weeks’ intervention and 4 weeks’ follow up). Outcome measures included migraine days, frequency of migraine attacks, analgesics consumption for acute treatment, and the proportion of responders as well as the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and intensity for pain.Results.Compared with the placebo group, the CXDT-HFG group showed significant reduction in migraine days and attacks frequency at week 12 and follow-up period (P<0.05) as well as in the reduction of VAS scores at follow-up period.There was significant difference in the proportion of responders between the two groups at follow-up period (P=0.014). However there were no significant differences between the two groups in analgesics consumption (P>0.05). Conclusion.CXDT-HFG was more effective than placebo in decreasing days of migraine attacks, frequency, VAS scores, and relieving pain intensity for migraine patients.
Mössbauer, XRD, and Complex Thermal Analysis of the Hydration of Cement with Fly Ash
Authors: Lilkov Vili , Petrov Ognyan , Tzvetanova Yana , Savov Plamen , Kadiyski Milen
Published: November 2012

Hydration of cement with and without fly ash is studied with Mössbauer spectroscopy, XRD, and thermal analysis. Iron in cement is present as Fe3+-ions and occupies two octahedral positions, with close isomer shifts and quadrupole splittings. Iron in fly ash is present as Fe2+and Fe3+, and the Mössbauer spectra display three doublets—two for Fe3+in octahedral coordination and one for Fe2+. A third doublet was registered in the hydrating plain cement pastes after the 5th day, due to Fe3+in tetrahedral coordination in the structure of the newly formed monosulphate aluminate. In cement pastes with fly ash, the doublet of tetrahedral iron is formed earlier because the quantity of ettringite and portlandite is low and more monosulphate crystallizes. No Fe(OH)3phase forms during hydration of C4AF. The fly ash displays pozzolanic properties, which lead to lowering of the portlandite quantity in the cement mixtures and increasing of the high temperature products.
Single-Port Access Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy for Large Uterus
Authors: Song Taejong , Lee Yoonjung , Kim Mi-La , Yoon Bo Sung , Joo Won-Duk , Seong Seok Ju , Kim In Hyun
Published: November 2012

Background/Aims: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of single-port access total laparoscopic hysterectomy (SPA-TLH) for large uterus (>500 g). Methods: A prospective data collection was performed in 21 consecutive patients in March 2010 and August 2011. Surgical outcome including operative time (OT) and estimated blood loss (EBL) were analyzed. Results: SPA-TLH procedures were successfully performed in 16 cases (76.2%). Of the 5 failed cases, 4 were converted to multiport TLH because of distorted uterine contours and pelvic adhesions and 1 was converted to laparotomy for bleeding control. The median OT, uterine weight, and EBL were 110 (65–165) min, 600 (502–980) g, and 200 (100–800) ml, respectively. Spearman’s correlation analysis demonstrated that OT and blood loss increased with increasing uterine weight (p = 0.003 and p = 0.033, respectively). No operative complications were observed during the hospital stay and 3-month follow-up following discharge. Conclusion: SPA-TLH for large uterus is a feasible and safe technique.
Sexing Frogs by Real-Time PCR: Using Aromatase (cyp19) as an Early Ovarian Differentiation Marker
Authors: Navarro-Martín L. , Velasco-Santamaría Y.M. , Duarte-Guterman P. , Robertson C. , Lanctôt C. , Pauli B. , Trudeau V.L.
Published: November 2012

Most anurans have no identified sex-markers; therefore, alternative methods for identification of early changes in sex ratios are required. In this study, Lithobates sylvaticus and Silurana tropicalis tadpoles were sampled at different developmental stages covering the entire process of sex differentiation. Three candidate genes known to be involved in sex differentiation in other vertebrate species were selected to develop a method to identify phenotypic sex in frogs: cytochrome p450 aromatase (cyp19), forkhead box L2 (foxl2) and the cytochrome 17-alpha-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase (cyp17). Cloning of these genes revealed nucleotide identity values ranging between 75–97% when compared to other amphibian species. Gene expression of cyp17,cyp19 and foxl2 in L. sylvaticus adult gonads and gonad-mesonephros complex (GMC) of tadpoles was analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Results showed clear sexually dimorphic patterns in the expression of the 3 genes. Our analysis reveals that GMC gene expression levels of cyp19 alone can be used as a robust predictor of phenotypic sex in L. sylvaticus tadpoles. In addition, we validated this method measuring cyp19 mRNA levels in S. tropicalis GMCs. We propose measuring cyp19 as a tool to study the effects of chemical contaminants (including endocrine disrupting compounds) on amphibian gonadal development and sex ratios in the future.
Experiences of Early Users of Direct-to-Consumer Genomics in Switzerland: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Vayena E. , Gourna E. , Streuli J. , Hafen E. , Prainsack B.
Published: November 2012

Aims: This study explores attitudes, motivations and self-reported impact in connection with direct-to-consumer (DTC) genomic testing amongst a group of life scientists in Switzerland. Methods: Data were collected through: (1) a self-completion online questionnaire, and (2) semi-structured qualitative interviews. Forty participants completed the questionnaire and 10 were interviewed. Results: Curiosity was mentioned as the primary reason for undergoing testing, while less significance was attributed to receiving actionable health information. The opportunity to contribute to research ranked high as a motive for testing. Overall, participants assessed their experience with the test as positive and were willing to recommend it to others. Some reported that the testing had an impact on how they view their health, but only a third of participants planned on showing the results to health practitioners. Participants consistently referred to ‘fun’ when describing several aspects of the testing experience. The ‘fun factor’ manifested itself in different phases of the process, including the motivation for taking the test, receiving the information and putting the test results to use (including sharing and discussing it with others). This finding suggests the need to further explore the concept of personal utility in DTC genomics. Conclusions: Although this group is not representative of the broader population due to both their scientific expertise and their willingness to try out a controversial new technology, their experiences provide valuable insights into the role of personal curiosity and altruism (fostering medical research) as motivations for testing and the utility attributed to both.
Effect of Cilostazol in the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Lenticulostriate Artery Territory
Authors: Kondo Ryushi , Matsumoto Yasushi , Furui Eisuke , Itabashi Ryo , Sato Shoichiro , Yazawa Yukako , Shimizu Hiroaki , Fujiwara Satoru , Takahashi Akira , Tominaga Teiji
Published: November 2012

Background: Cilostazol, an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3, has various pleiotropic effects besides its antiplatelet activity. This study examined the efficacy of cilostazol for the treatment of acute perforating artery infarction. Methods: In this prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded-end point trial, 100 patients with cerebral infarction in the territory of the lenticulostriate arteries were enrolled within 48 h of onset. Patients were randomly treated with both cilostazol and ozagrel for 14 days (n = 50, cilostazol group) or ozagrel alone for 14 days (n = 50, control group). The primary end point was the proportion of favorable outcomes 30 days after randomization as defined by a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–2. Secondary end points included the incidence of neurological deterioration (an increase of ≥2 on the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale within 7 days). Results: Favorable outcomes (mRS scores 0–2) were similar in both groups (81.3 and 82.0% in the cilostazol and control groups, respectively). The incidence of neurological deterioration was lower in the cilostazol group than the control group (12.5 and 16.0%, respectively) with a 21.9% relative risk reduction, although the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Cilostazol did not prevent the neurological deterioration of perforating artery infarction.
l-Deprenyl Reverses Age-Associated Decline in Splenic Norepinephrine, Interleukin-2 and Interferon-γ Production in Old Female F344 Rats
Authors: ThyagaRajan Srinivasan , Madden Kelley S. , Boehm Gary W. , Stevens Suzanne Y. , Felten David L. , Bellinger Denise L.
Published: November 2012

Aging in female rats is associated with cessation of reproductive cycles, development of mammary cancer, and increased incidence of autoimmune diseases. Previously, we demonstrated an age-related decline in sympathetic noradrenergic (NA) innervation in the spleen and lymph nodes of female F344 rats accompanied by significantly reduced natural killer cell activity, interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ production, and T- and B-cell proliferation, suggesting possible links between sympathetic activity and immunosenescence. Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of l-(–)-deprenyl, a monoamine oxidase-B inhibitor, on the sympathetic nervous system and cell-mediated immune responses in old female rats. Methods: Low doses of l-deprenyl (0.25 or 1.0 mg/kg body weight, BW) were administered intraperitoneally to 19- to 21-month-old female F344 rats for 8 weeks. To assess the stereoselectivity of the effects of deprenyl on splenic sympathetic activity and immune responses, the d-enantiomer (d-(+)-deprenyl; 1.0 mg/kg BW) was also included in the studies. Norepinephrine (NE) concentration and content, and mitogen-induced T-cell proliferation and cytokine production were assessed in the splenocytes after deprenyl treatment. Results: Treatment with l-deprenyl reversed the age-related decrease in NE concentration and content and IFN-γ production, and increased IL-2 production in the spleen while d-deprenyl did not affect the age-associated reduction in splenic NE levels or cytokine production. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that l-deprenyl exerts neurorestorative and immunostimulatory effects on the sympathetic nervous system and cell-mediated immune responses during aging and provides evidence for a causal relationship between some aspects of immunosenescence and the age-related decline in sympathetic nerves in the spleens of female F344 rats.
The Prognostic Value of Left Atrial Peak Reservoir Strain in Acute Myocardial Infarction Is Dependent on Left Ventricular Longitudinal Function and Left Atrial Size
Authors: Ersbøll Mads , Andersen Mads J. , Valeur Nana , Mogensen Ulrik Madvig , Waziri Homa , Møller Jacob Eifer , Hassager Christian , Søgaard Peter , Køber Lars
Published: November 2012

Background—

Peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) during the reservoir phase has been proposed as a measure of left atrium function in a range of cardiac conditions, with the potential for added pathophysiological insight and prognostic value. However, no studies have assessed the interrelation of PALS and left ventricular longitudinal strain (global longitudinal strain) in large-scale populations in regard to prognosis.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively included 843 patients (mean age 62.1±11.8; 74% male) with acute myocardial infarction and measured global longitudinal strain, left atrium volumes, and PALS within 48 hours of admission. PALS was related to a composite outcome of death and heart failure hospitalization. Reduced PALS was associated with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and Killip class >1 (
P
<0.05 for all). Reduced PALS was associated with impairment of all measures of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, and the correlation between global longitudinal strain and PALS was highly significant (
P
<0.001;
r
=–0.71). During follow-up (median 23.0 months Q1–Q3, 16.8–26.0), a total of 76 patients (9.0%) reached the composite end point of which 47 patients died (5.6%), and 29 patients were hospitalized for heart failure (3.4%). PALS was significantly associated with outcome (hazard ratio [HR], 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85–0.90;
P
<0.001); however, no independent effect of PALS (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.94–1.05;
P
=0.87) was found when adjusting for global longitudinal strain (HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.09–1.33;
P
<0.001), maximum left atrium volume before mitral valve opening (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.04;
P
=0.006), and age (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03–1.08;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

PALS provides a composite measure of left ventricular longitudinal systolic function and maximum left atrium volume before mitral valve opening, and as such contains no added information when these readily obtained measures are known.
Refined Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty for Inoperable Patients with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Mizoguchi Hiroki , Ogawa Aiko , Munemasa Mitsuru , Mikouchi Hiroshi , Ito Hiroshi , Matsubara Hiromi
Published: November 2012

Background—

Although balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) for inoperable patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension was first reported over a decade ago, its clinical application has been restricted because of limited efficacy and complications. We have refined the procedure of BPA to maximize its clinical efficacy.

Methods and Results—

Sixty-eight consecutive patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension underwent BPA. We evaluated pulmonary artery diameters and determined the appropriate balloon size by using intravascular ultrasound. We performed BPA in a staged fashion over multiple, separate procedures to maximize efficacy and reduce the risk of reperfusion pulmonary injury. A total of 4 (2–8) sessions were performed in each patient, and the number of vessels dilated per session was 3 (1–14). The World Health Organization functional class improved from 3 to 2 (
P
<0.01), and mean pulmonary arterial pressure was decreased from 45.4±9.6 to 24.0±6.4 mm Hg (
P
<0.01). One patient died because of right heart failure 28 days after BPA. During follow-up for 2.2±1.4 years after the final BPA, another patient died of pneumonia, and the remaining 66 patients are alive. In 57 patients who underwent right heart catheterization at follow-up, improvement of mean pulmonary arterial pressure was maintained (24.0±5.8 mm Hg at 1.0±0.9 years). Forty-one patients (60%) developed reperfusion pulmonary injury after BPA, but mechanical ventilation was required in only 4 patients.

Conclusions—

Our refined BPA procedure improves clinical status and hemodynamics of inoperable patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, with a low mortality. A refined BPA procedure could be considered as a therapeutic approach for patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.
Posterior Cerebral Artery Laterality on Magnetic Resonance Angiography Predicts Long-Term Functional Outcome in Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Ichijo Masahiko , Miki Kazunori , Ishibashi Satoru , Tomita Makoto , Kamata Tomoyuki , Fujigasaki Hiroto , Mizusawa Hidehiro
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose—

Prominent posterior cerebral artery (PCA) laterality upon 3-dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography is often encountered in patients with middle cerebral artery occlusion. We hypothesized that this sign is correlated with improved functional outcome in patients with middle cerebral artery occlusion treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator.

Methods—

Fifty acute ischemic stroke patients with middle cerebral artery occlusion were treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator from April 2007 to October 2009. All patients routinely underwent initial (first 3 hours) magnetic resonance scans on admission, and additional follow-up (14–21 days after stroke onset) computed tomography scans. Two film readers blinded to all clinical information assessed the presence or absence of PCA laterality on magnetic resonance angiography. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and radiologic data on all patients.

Results—

Out of 50 patients, 20 showed PCA laterality on magnetic resonance angiography. National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score 7 days after stroke onset was significantly lower (
P
=0.007), and infarct volume on follow-up computed tomography was significantly smaller (
P
=0.009) in patients with PCA laterality than in patients without this sign. Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed an adjusted odds ratio of 8.49 for a favorable outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–1 at 6 months) in patients with PCA laterality (95% CI: 1.82 to 55.8,
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

The presence of PCA laterality on magnetic resonance angiography before intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator can be used as a predictor of favorable functional outcome in patients with middle cerebral artery occlusion, probably due to improvement of recanalization rate.
Enhanced Neuroprotection by Local Intra-Arterial Infusion of Human Albumin Solution and Local Hypothermia
Authors: Chen Jian , Fredrickson Vance , Ding Yuchuan , Cheng Huakun , Wang Ning , Ling Feng , Ji Xunming
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose—

We investigated the potential benefit of using a local infusion of low-dose and cold human albumin in ischemic rats as compared with systemic delivery.

Methods—

Stroke was induced in rats, and at 2 hours treatment groups received 0°C saline or low-dose albumin at 0°C or 37°C infused into the ischemic area.

Results—

The local low-dose cold albumin infusion, which achieved the hypothermic temperature (
P
<0.001), produced the greatest reduction in infarct volume and the best recovery of neurological function.

Conclusions—

The local low-dose cold albumin infusion into the ischemic area offered a combination of regional brain hypothermia and albumin administration, which enhanced neuroprotection and would be beneficial in the clinical setting.
Śānti Rites in the Development of the Purānic Rāajyābhiseka
Authors: Geslani Marko
Published: November 2012

This article details the contribution of Atharvan and astrological śānti (appeasement) rituals in the formation of the Purānic rājyābhiseka (royal consecration), described most elaborately in the Visnudharmottarapurāna. It argues that the form of this ceremony derives from consecratory forms originating in late-Vedic Atharvan ritual manuals (Śāantikalpa and Pariśistas), and further developed in the Brhatsamhitā, rather than from earlier śrauta-era consecrations such as the rājasūya. “Vedic”/“Hindu” distinctions, which have been employed in earlier analyses of this rite, may lack the precision for capturing this historical development. The article also highlights the contribution of late-Vedic and astrological theories of ritual to medieval conceptions of kingship.
Alchemy of the Ancient Goths: Johannes Bureus’ Search for the Lost Wisdom of Scandinavia
Authors: Håkansson Håkan
Published: November 2012

The Swedish polymath Johannes Bureus (1568–1652), Royal Librarian and close friend of King Gustavus Adolphus, is primarily known as an exponent of early modern “Gothicism,” i.e., the idea that the ancient Goths of Scandinavia were the first rulers of Europe and Sweden the true origin of Western culture. But Bureus was also an avid reader of alchemical literature, as well as a practising alchemist. Influenced by the Neoplatonic revival of the Renaissance, he viewed alchemy as part of a prisca theologia stemming from the ancient Goths, arguing that the Scandinavian runes constituted a “Gothic Cabala,” in which the secrets of all sciences—including alchemy—had been hidden for posterity. Drawing on Bureus’ notes, glosses and excerpts from textual sources, this article considers the role attributed to alchemy in his quest for this lost wisdom of the Goths.
The Majālis-i Jahāngīrī (1608-11): Dialogue and Asiatic Otherness at the Mughal Court
Authors: Lefèvre Corinne
Published: November 2012

Abstract

Building on the literary traditions ofmunāẓara(disputation) andmalfūẓāt(teachings of a Sufi master), theMajālis-i Jahāngīrī(Assemblies of Jahāngīr) constitute a fundamentally dialogical work, in form as well as function. An account of the night-time sessions presided over by Emperor Jahāngīr from 1608 to 1611, this source highlights the Mughals’ will to assert their power on a Eurasian scale and the central role played by Iran, Central Asia, and Hindustan in the elaboration of imperial ideology and identity. It thus opens a new window into the mental representations and hierarchies that underlay the much celebrated Mughal cosmopolitanism.
Portrait of a Raja in a Badshah’s World: Amrit Rai’s Biography of Man Singh (1585)
Authors: Busch Allison
Published: November 2012

Abstract

A wealth of Old Hindi texts in the Rajasthani and Brajbhasha dialects survives from the early modern period, but they remain an underused archive of Mughal history. TheMāncarit(“Biography of Man Singh,” 1585) of Amrit Rai, one of the earliest known examples of Rajput literature about a Mughalmanṣabdār, provides fascinating perspectives on Mughal power, as seen from the perspective of the court of Man Singh Kachhwaha, one of the leading regional kings of Akbar’s day. Amrit Rai was as much a poet as an historian, which makes theMāncaritand the many Rajput texts like it challenging to interpret, but the possibility of gaining alternative perspectives on Mughal state formation makes such a hermeneutic enterprise essential.