bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorescent labeling of materials using silica nanoparticles
Authors: Rashwan Khaled , Brakke Erik , Sereda Grigoriy
Published: August 2014

The article is focused on the implementation of fluorescent silica nanoparticles in the laboratory curriculum. Along with a brief overview of experimental procedures appropriate for teaching in the laboratory and scarce examples of utilization of silica nanoparticles in the laboratory instruction, a new mini-laboratory course is described in detail. The series of the developed experiments allow the students to synthesize silica nanoparticles, place organic functionalities on their surface, and explore nanoparticles as labels and building blocks for nanoassemblies. Introduction of students to the art of using the most popular specific interaction in nanomedicine (avidin-biotin), along with synthesis and manipulation of nanoparticles, will help them bridge their existing or future knowledge of organic chemistry, materials science, and nanomedicine. The experiment is beneficial for students’ understanding of the relationship between organic chemistry, materials science, and nanomedicine, regardless of their level of expertise in those fields.
Quantifying the multi-scale performance of network inference algorithms
Authors: Oates Chris J. , Amos Richard , Spencer Simon E.F.
Published: August 2014

Graphical models are widely used to study complex multivariate biological systems. Network inference algorithms aim to reverse-engineer such models from noisy experimental data. It is common to assess such algorithms using techniques from classifier analysis. These metrics, based on ability to correctly infer individual edges, possess a number of appealing features including invariance to rank-preserving transformation. However, regulation in biological systems occurs on multiple scales and existing metrics do not take into account the correctness of higher-order network structure. In this paper novel performance scores are presented that share the appealing properties of existing scores, whilst capturing ability to uncover regulation on multiple scales. Theoretical results confirm that performance of a network inference algorithm depends crucially on the scale at which inferences are to be made; in particular strong local performance does not guarantee accurate reconstruction of higher-order topology. Applying these scores to a large corpus of data from the DREAM5 challenge, we undertake a data-driven assessment of estimator performance. We find that the “wisdom of crowds” network, that demonstrated superior local performance in the DREAM5 challenge, is also among the best performing methodologies for inference of regulation on multiple length scales.
Comparison of intermolecular interactions in two phases of MeNSOF2
Authors: Mews Rüdiger , Parsons Simon
Published: August 2014

MeNSOF2 was crystallised by laser-assisted zone refinement at 150 K. The structure obtained by X-ray diffraction initially on cooling to 140 K was triclinic, P-̄, but this transformed slowly to a second phase, which was monoclinic C2/c. Bond distances and angles are similar to equivalent interactions in (MeN)2 SF2 and SO2 F2. Intermolecular interactions in both phases are dominated by dispersion, though electrostatics are also important in all the most energetic contacts. Though no interatomic contacts fall within the sums of van der Waals radii of the contacting atoms, PIXEL calculations indicate that some intermolecular energies are similar to medium-strength hydrogen bonds. The monoclinic phase is denser than the triclinic phase, having stronger dispersion interactions. PIXEL and DFT calculations indicate that the two phases are energetically very finely balanced, but phase I becomes competitive at higher temperature on account of the entropy advantage of its ‘looser’ structure. DFT phonon energy calculations suggest that the mechanism of the transition may involve coupling between acoustic and low energy optical phonons.
Extreme Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia and a Specific Genotype: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Petersen Jesper Padkær , Henriksen Tine Brink , Hollegaard Mads Vilhelm , Vandborg Pernille Kure , Hougaard David Michael , Thorlacius-Ussing Ole , Ebbesen Finn
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Extreme hyperbilirubinemia (plasma bilirubin ≥24.5 mg/dL) is an important risk factor for severe bilirubin encephalopathy. Several risk factors for hyperbilirubinemia are known, but in a large number of patients, a causal factor is never established. UGT1A1 is the rate-limiting enzyme in bilirubin’s metabolism. The genotype of Gilbert syndrome, the UGT1A1*28 allele, causes markedly reduced activity of this enzyme, but its association with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is uncertain and its relationship with extreme hyperbilirubinemia has not been studied. We examined whether the UGT1A1*28 allele is associated with extreme hyperbilirubinemia.

METHODS:

The UGT1A1*28 allele was assessed in a case-control study of 231 white infants who had extreme hyperbilirubinemia in Denmark from 2000 to 2007 and 432 white controls. Cases were identified in the Danish Extreme Hyperbilirubinemia Database that covers the entire population. Genotypes were obtained through the Danish Neonatal Screening Biobank. Subgroup analysis was done for AB0 incompatible cases.

RESULTS:

No association was found between the UGT1A1*28 allele and extreme hyperbilirubinemia. With the common genotype as reference, the odds ratio of extreme hyperbilirubinemia was 0.87 (range, 0.68–1.13) for UGT1A1*28 heterozygotes and 0.77 (range, 0.46–1.27) for homozygotes. Also, no association was found for AB0 incompatible cases.

CONCLUSIONS:

The UGT1A1*28 allele was not associated with risk for extreme hyperbilirubinemia in this study.
Evaluation of EGFR, KRAS and BRAF gene mutations in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Bayrak Omer , Sen Haluk , Bulut Ersan , Cengiz Beyhan , Karakok Metin , Erturhan Sakip , Seckiner Ilker
Published: August 2014

A subset of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients has been shown to respond to anti-EGFR therapy. As KRAS and BRAF mutations are associated with poor response to anti-EGFR therapy in some cancers, it has been suggested that screening for KRAS and BRAF mutations in RCC may be a promising strategy to identify patients who might respond to EGFR-targeted therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the mutation status of EGFR, KRAS and BRAF in RCC patients. Renal tumors and normal renal samples from forty-eight patients who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy for kidney cancer were used in this study. Histological classification of the tumors was performed according to International Union against Cancer (UICC) / American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) classification. Seventeen patients (48%) had clear-cell RCC, 7 (20%) had chromophobe RCC, and 11 patients (32%) had papillary RCC. DNA isolated from the samples was subjected to melting curve mutation analysis for EGFR, BRAF and KRAS using ABI-3130 DNA sequencer. DNA sequencing analysis of RCC samples, when compared with morphologically normal matched regions, did not show any exon mutations. Our results do not support the notion that EGFR, KRAS and BRAF might be mutated in RCC.
REFLEXÕES SOBRE A POLÍTICA SOCIAL A PARTIR DO CONTEXTO MONETÁRIO INTERNACIONAL: UMA DISCUSSÃO PRELIMINAR
Authors: E Silva William Gledson , Da Silva Suzete Câmara , Figueiredo Jonilson de Souza
Published: August 2014

Este trabalho teve o objetivo de analisar os efeitos da política econômica (notadamente à monetária) em nível global sobre as políticas sociais, cujo mecanismo de transmissão foi à via fiscal. Metodologicamente, tratou-se de uma pesquisa essencialmente bibliográfica, configurando-se em um estudo exploratório com vestígios explicativos. Finalmente, verificou-se que as políticas econômicas de natureza monetária refletem a formulação de políticas sociais internalizadas no local, cuja forma de repercussão foi expressa no contexto fiscal, permitindo evidenciar, de modo preliminar, o constatado neste estudo.
TRANSMISSÃO DO CONHECIMENTO DE ALGUMAS ZOONOSES PARA ALUNOS DE ESCOLAS PÚBLICAS NOS MUNICÍPIOS DE APODI, FELIPE GUERRA E SEVERIANO MELO
Authors: Moreira Faviano Ricelli da Costa , Morais Najara Raquel Lima , Oliveira Francisca Leandra Morais , Souza Jaqueline Cardoso , Lima Maria Saúde , Costa Francisco Pereira , Góis Jéssica Karla
Published: August 2014

O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar o conhecimento de alunos da rede pública de ensino sobre algumas Zoonoses, através de palestras ministradas por alunos do curso de Técnico em Zootecnia. Foram aplicados 677 questionários para alunos de escolas públicas de Apodi, Felipe Guerra e Severiano Melo. Os questionários foram aplicados antes e após as palestras. Os dados foram discutidos através de uma análise descritiva. Os principais resultados demonstraram que os conteúdos relativos à transmissão e prevenção de algumas zoonoses foram fixados. Antes das palestras 20,8% dos alunos conheciam o conceito de Zoonoses e após, esse percentual passou para 88,3%. Houve um aumento no conhecimento da forma de transmissão da Larva migrans, Toxoplasmose e Leptospirose, onde antes das palestras o percentual era de 91,8, 1,9 e 29,4% e após as apresentações foi de 100,0, 57,8 e 72,4%, respectivamente. Para a forma de transmissão das Verminoses, o percentual de fixação do conhecimento não foi alterado, de maneira significativa, antes (86,5%) e após (87,9%) as palestras. Como conclusão, tem-se que a metodologia de palestras para alunos da rede pública de ensino é uma ferramenta que pode ser utilizada como forma de educação e prevenção de doenças.
CORANTES TÊXTEIS: UMA REVISÃO
Authors: Peixoto Fabia Pinho , Marinho Gloria , Rodrigues Kelly
Published: August 2014

A indústria de corantes desenvolve um importante papel na economia do mundo, visto que estes são utilizados em várias atividades fabris. Os corantes têxteis causam especial impacto no meio ambiente principalmente por serem de difícil degradação. Vários processos tem sido estudados a fim de que se consiga realizar um tratamento realmente efetivo em remoção de corantes de efluentes têxteis, entre eles os processos biológicos estão recebendo uma particular atenção por sua eficiência.O tratamento microbiológico de efluentes, especialmente por espécies fúngicas tem ganhado espaço, por estes organismos serem bastante versáteis, tratarem uma grande variedade de tipos de corantes e apresentarem diferentes mecanismos de remoção de cor. Portanto os fungos apresentam-se bastante atrativos e demonstram ser os organismos mais adequados em relação a tratamento de efluentes têxteis.
EDUCAÇÃO DO CAMPO E O PROGRAMA ESCOLA ATIVA: ELEMENTOS HISTÓRICOS, CONCEITUAIS E PEDAGÓGICOS
Authors: MELO AMILKA DAYANE , SOUZA SAMIR CRISTINO
Published: August 2014

Nesse artigo nos propomos a realizar uma breve caracterização do que é a Educação do Campo a fim de analisar elementos que compõem os Cadernos de Ensino-Aprendizagem do Programa Escola Ativa, destinada para salas de aula multisseriadas em realidades campesinas. O estudo teve como objetivo identificar como os conteúdos de Língua Portuguesa e Matemática propostos para o 5º ano do Ensino Fundamental foram considerados. A investigação foi referenciada pela perspectiva da análise de conteúdo do material didático, identificando como as atividades e conteúdos são considerados e como se articulam com as situações e vivencias rurais. Percebemos que o material destinado a esses educandos não contemplam as questões da proposta política e pedagógica da Educação do Campo, apresentando contradições de natureza teórica metodológica.
PELOS FIOS DAS MEMÓRIAS DO LIVRO E DA LEITURA: O ARQUIVO ZILA DA COSTA MAMEDE
Authors: Machado Charliton José dos Santos , Fialho Lia Machado Fiuza , Vasconcelos Larissa Meira de
Published: August 2014

O artigo objetiva biografar Zila da Costa Mamede, escritora, poetisa e bibliotecária, enfatizando seu protagonismo no universo cultural da produção, organização e circulação do livro no Brasil. Por intermédio da abordagem teórico-metodológica da Nova História Cultural, destacam-se as principais contribuições educacionais de Mamede, com suporte na análise de fontes documentais diversas que possibilitam compreender o seu trabalho em prol da expansão das bibliotecas brasileiras, particularmente as do Rio Grande do Norte, com o objetivo de romper os limites de uma cultura elitista predominante do saber. Ao promover maior interação e compartilhamento das instituições formais do saber e a comunidade de leitores, Zila Mamede se imortalizou como intérprete de inquietações humanísticas e literárias de sua época, destacando-se como pioneira na área da Biblioteconomia no Rio Grande do Norte.
PERCEPÇÃO DOS AGRICULTORES DE CAJAZEIRAS NA PARAÍBA, QUANTO AO USO DA ÁGUA DE CHUVA PARA FINS POTÁVEIS
Authors: Barros José Deomar de Souza , Torquato Silvana Câmara , Azevedo Damião Carlos Freires de , Batista Fábio Giovanni de Araújo
Published: August 2014

A carência de água de qualidade para abastecimento humano, no Semiárido brasileiro, contribui para reduzir a qualidade da vida desta população, dificultando assim sua própria fixação no campo. Neste sentido, a construção de cisternas nas comunidades rurais constitui uma solução viável para a convivência destas populações com o Semiárido, ao contribuir com a permanência das famílias no meio rural pela oferta de água potável para consumo humano. Neste sentido, o presente trabalho tem o objetivo de diagnosticar o perfil socioeconômico de agricultores assentados do município de Cajazeiras, bem como avaliar a percepção dos agricultores quanto ao uso da água de chuva captada em cisternas. A referida pesquisa foi realizada no período de 25 de abril a 13 de maio de 2011, contendo uma amostra de 20 famílias. Foi elaborado um questionário sócio-ambiental semi-estruturado e aplicado, na forma de entrevistas em visitas feitas nos assentamentos, seguido de observações diretas de todas as condições locais direcionadas ao foco do trabalho. Os resultados obtidos indicam que as pessoas que vivem nesta localidade apresentam uma escolaridade baixa, utilizam água de beber proveniente de cisternas, adotam barreiras sanitárias para evitar a contaminação da água. Todas as entrevistadas afirmaram que as cisternas contribuíram para melhorar, a qualidade de vida das famílias relacionadas a melhorias significativas na saúde familiar.
Impaired Macromolecular Protein Pools in Fronto-Striato-Thalamic Circuits in Type 2 Diabetes Revealed by Magnetization Transfer Imaging
Authors: Yang Shaolin , Ajilore Olusola , Wu Minjie , Lamar Melissa , Kumar Anand
Published: August 2014

Previous research has shown that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with white matter microstructural changes, cognitive impairment, and decreased resting-state functional connectivity and spontaneous brain activity. This study used magnetization transfer imaging to examine, for the first time, the integrity of macromolecular protein pools in fronto-striato-thalamic circuits and its clinical and cognitive correlates in patients with T2DM. T2DM patients without mood disorders (n = 20, aged 65.05 ± 11.95 years) and healthy control subjects (HCs; n = 26, aged 62.92 ± 12.71 years) were recruited. Nodes of fronto-striato-thalamic circuits—head of the caudate nucleus (hCaud), putamen, globus pallidus, thalamus—and four cortical regions—rostral and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and lateral orbitofrontal cortex—were examined. Compared with HCs, patients with T2DM had significantly lower magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) in bilateral anterior cingulate and hCaud. Reduced MTRs in the above regions showed correlations with T2DM-related clinical measures, including hemoglobin A1c level and vascular risk factors, and neuropsychological task performance in the domains of learning and memory, executive function, and attention and information processing. The impaired biophysical integrity of brain macromolecular protein pools and their local microenvironments in T2DM patients may provide insights into the neurological pathophysiology underlying diabetes-associated clinical and cognitive deficits.
Severe Hypoglycemia and Mortality After Cardiovascular Events for Type 1 Diabetic Patients in Sweden
Authors: Lung Tom W.C. , Petrie Dennis , Herman William H. , Palmer Andrew J. , Svensson Ann-Marie , Eliasson Bjorn , Clarke Philip M.
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether previous severe hypoglycemic events were associated with the risk of all-cause mortality after major cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction [MI] or stroke) in patients with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study is based on data from the Swedish National Diabetes Register linked to patient-level hospital records, prescription data, and death records. We selected patients with type 1 diabetes who visited a clinic during 2002–2010 and experienced a major cardiovascular complication after their clinic visit. We estimated a two-part model for all-cause mortality after a major cardiovascular event: logistic regression for death within the first month and a Cox proportional hazards model conditional on 1-month survival. At age 60 years, 5-year cumulative mortality risk was estimated from the models for patients with and without prior diabetes complications.

RESULTS

A total of 1,839 patients experienced major cardiovascular events, of whom 403 had previously experienced severe hypoglycemic events and 703 died within our study period. A prior hypoglycemic event was associated with a significant increase in mortality after a cardiovascular event, with hazard ratios estimated at 1.79 (95% CI 1.37–2.35) within the first month and 1.25 (95% CI 1.02–1.53) after 1 month. Patients with prior hypoglycemia had an estimated 5-year cumulative mortality risk of 52.4% (95% CI 45.3–59.5) and 39.8% (95% CI 33.4–46.3) for MI and stroke, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We have found evidence that patients with type 1 diabetes in Sweden with prior severe hypoglycemic events have increased risk of mortality after a cardiovascular event.
Glucose Counterregulation in Advanced Type 2 Diabetes: Effect of β-Adrenergic Blockade
Authors: Bokhari Syed , Plummer Elena , Emmerson Peter , Gupta Anchal , Meyer Christian
Published: August 2014

OBJECTIVE

To examine counterregulatory glucose kinetics and test the hypothesis that β-adrenergic blockade impairs these in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and advanced β-failure.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Nine insulin-requiring T2DM subjects and six matched nondiabetic control subjects were studied. β-Cell function was assessed by the C-peptide response to arginine stimulation. Counterregulatory hormonal responses and glucose kinetics were assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic-hypoglycemic clamps with [3-3H]glucose infusion. T2DM subjects underwent two clamp experiments in a randomized crossover fashion: once with infusion of the β-adrenergic antagonist propranolol and once with infusion of normal saline.

RESULTS

Compared with the control subjects, T2DM subjects had threefold reduced C-peptide responses to arginine stimulation. During the hypoglycemic clamp, glucagon responses were markedly diminished (16.0 ± 4.2 vs. 48.6 ± 6.0 ng/L, P < 0.05), but other hormonal responses and the decrement in the required exogenous glucose infusion rate (GIR) from the euglycemic clamp were normal (−10.4 ± 1.1 vs. −7.8 ± 1.9 µmol · kg−1 · min−1 in control subjects); however, endogenous glucose production (EGP) did not increase (−0.8 ± 1.0 vs. 2.2 ± 0.7 µmol · kg−1 · min−1 in control subjects, P < 0.05), whereas systemic glucose disposal decreased normally. β-Adrenergic blockade in the T2DM subjects increased GIR ∼20% during the euglycemic clamp (P < 0.01), but neither increased GIR during the hypoglycemic clamp or decreased its decrement from the euglycemic clamp to the hypoglycemic clamp.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall glucose counterregulation is preserved in advanced T2DM, but the contribution of EGP is diminished. β-Adrenergic blockade may increase insulin sensitivity at normoglycemia but does not impair glucose counterregulation in T2DM patients, even those with advanced β-cell failure.
Temporal species turnover and plant community changes across different habitats in the Lake Engure Nature Park, Latvia
Authors: Rūsiņa Solvita , Gavrilova Ģertrūde , Roze Ieva , Šulcs Viesturs
Published: August 2014

Simultaneous monitoring of vegetation dynamics in different ecosystems has been rarely conducted but can provide important insights into mechanisms of vegetation dynamics in relation to vegetation structure and patterns. We compared the herb layer dynamics, species turnover, and species-time relationships across different habitats in a 12-year period in the ILTER monitoring station of the Lake Engure Nature Park, Latvia. Temporal species turnover was defined as diference in species composition in a community between two times. Species-time relationships were assessed using a sliding window approach. Species richness, cumulative species richness, and diversity changed more in species-rich non-forest habitats than in forests. Species turnover was highly different among habitats, and was not associated with the stability of habitats, as reported from other studies. The species-time relationship of six habitats was much lower than that reported in the literature. This could be explained by latitudinal gradients in species diversity and temporal turnover. At higher latitudes both species diversity and turnover is lower, and the mentioned habitats represent typical boreal vegetation. Vegetation dynamics in acidic grassland, dune slack, fen, and dune forest were interpreted as fluctuations. Vegetation changes in moist forest, dry forest, and coastal grassland showed clear signs of succession (xerophytisation and overgrowing). Vegetation dynamics of the beach community exhibited features of both natural succession and anthropogenic fluctuation.
Electrofacies in gas shale from well log data via cluster analysis: A case study of the Perth Basin, Western Australia
Authors: Torghabeh Amir , Rezaee Reza , Moussavi-Harami Reza , Pradhan Biswajeet , Kamali Mohammad , Kadkhodaie-Ilkhchi Ali
Published: August 2014

Identifying reservoir electrofacies has an important role in determining hydrocarbon bearing intervals. In this study, electrofacies of the Kockatea Formation in the Perth Basin were determined via cluster analysis. In this method, distance data were initially calculated and then connected spatially by using a linkage function. The dendrogram function was used to extract the cluster tree for formations over the study area. Input logs were sonic log (DT), gamma ray log (GR), resistivity log (IND), and spontaneous potential (SP). A total of 30 reservoir electrofacies were identified within this formation. Integrated geochemical and petrophysics data showed that zones with electrofacies 3, 4, 9, and 10 have potential for shale gas production. In addition, the results showed that cluster analysis is a precise, rapid, and cost-effective method for zoning reservoirs and determining electrofacies in hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Correction: Braverman, E.R., et al. Managing Terrorism or Accidental Nuclear Errors, Preparing for Iodine-131 Emergencies: A Comprehensive Review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 4158–4200
Authors: Braverman Eric , Blum Kenneth , Loeffke Bernard , Baker Robert , Kreuk Florian , Yang Samantha , Hurley James
Published: August 2014

The authors wish to make the following amendments to their paper published in International Journal of Environmnetal Research and Public Health [1]: [...]
Long Alkyl Chain Organophosphorus Coupling Agents for in Situ Surface Functionalization by Reactive Milling
Authors: Betke Annika , Kickelbick Guido
Published: August 2014

Innovative synthetic approaches should be simple and environmentally friendly. Here, we present the surface modification of inorganic submicrometer particles with long alkyl chain organophosphorus coupling agents without the need of a solvent, which makes the technique environmentally friendly. In addition, it is of great benefit to realize two goals in one step: size reduction and, simultaneously, surface functionalization. A top-down approach for the synthesis of metal oxide particles with in situ surface functionalization is used to modify titania with long alkyl chain organophosphorus coupling agents. A high energy planetary ball mill was used to perform reactive milling using titania as inorganic pigment and long alkyl chain organophosphorus coupling agents like dodecyl and octadecyl phosphonic acid. The final products were characterized by IR, NMR and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, thermal and elemental analysis as well as by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The process entailed a tribochemical phase transformation from the starting material anatase to a high-pressure modification of titania and the thermodynamically more stable rutile depending on the process parameters. Furthermore, the particles show sizes between 100 nm and 300 nm and a degree of surface coverage up to 0.8 mmol phosphonate per gram.
From Research “Involving” Humans to Research “Affecting” Humans: A Proposal for a Principled Expansion of Research Ethics’ Jurisdiction to Create Traction for a Philosophy of Technology
Authors: Saginur Madelaine
Published: August 2014

The field of research ethics offers a new approach to addressing the issues created by the unchecked development of technology. Research ethics could make a contribution, both substantively and procedurally, to help create a framework for reviewing the social and political consequences of actual or proposed technological developments. This paper puts forth a proposal for a principled expansion of research ethics’ jurisdiction, specifically a move from “Research Involving Humans” to “Research Affecting Humans”, and undertakes a case study of “Web 2.0” to analyze whether a philosophy of technology based on research ethics might work.
FTTA System Demo Using Optical Fiber-Coupled Active Antennas
Authors: Neumann Niels , Trieb Robert , Frach Stephan , Plettemeier Dirk
Published: August 2014

The convergence of optical and wireless systems such as Radio-over-Fiber (RoF) networks is the key to coping with the increasing bandwidth demands due to the increasing popularity of video and other high data rate applications. A high level of integration of optical technologies enables simple base stations with a fiber-to-the-antenna (FTTA) approach. In this paper, we present a complete full-duplex RoF–FTTA system consisting of integrated active fiber-coupled optical receiving and transmitting antennas that are directly connected to a standard single mode fiber optical link. Data rates up to 1 Gbit/s could be shown without advanced modulation formats on a 1.5 GHz carrier frequency. The antennas as well as the whole system are explained and the results of the system experiments are discussed.
Possible Selves, Body Schemas, and Sādhana: Using Cognitive Science and Neuroscience in the Study of Medieval Vaiṣṇava Sahajiyā Hindu Tantric Texts
Authors: Hayes Glen
Published: August 2014

In recent decades, historians of religions have turned to, and developed, entirely new methodologies for the study of religion and human consciousness. Foremost among these are a collection of approaches often termed the “cognitive science of religion” (CSR), typically drawing on cognitive science, neuroscience, linguistics, and contemporary metaphor theory. Although we are still “early” in this enterprise, I hope to show how a meaningful dialogue between religious studies and contemporary neuroscience and cognitive science can help us to better understand some intriguing mystical texts and practices from a tradition of medieval South Asian Hinduism. Known collectively as the Vaiṣṇava Sahajiyās, these followers of transgressive and antinomian Tantric Yoga provide excellent examples for exploring the nature of religion, ritual, consciousness, embodiment, identity, gender, emotions and sexuality. This paper will show how the study of these rich materials from 17th through 18th century Bengal in northeastern South Asia can be enhanced using insights from the philosopher, Shaun Gallagher, and the neurologist, Patrick McNamara.
The Penetration Depth Derived from the Synthesis of ALOS/PALSAR InSAR Data and ASTER GDEM for the Mapping of Forest Biomass
Authors: Ni Wenjian , Zhang Zhiyu , Sun Guoqing , Guo Zhifeng , He Yating
Published: August 2014

The Global Digital Elevation Model produced from stereo images of Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer data (ASTER GDEM) covers land surfaces between latitudes of 83°N and 83°S. The Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (PALSAR) onboard Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) collected many SAR images since it was launched on 24 January 2006. The combination of ALOS/PALSAR interferometric data and ASTER GDEM should provide the penetration depth of SAR data assuming ASTER GDEM was the elevation of vegetation canopy top. It would be correlated with forest biomass because penetration depth could be affected by forest density and forest canopy height. Their combination held great promises for the forest biomass mapping over large area. The feasibility of forest biomass mapping through the data synthesis of ALOS/PALSAR InSAR data and ASTER GDEM was investigated in this study. A procedure for the extraction of penetration depth was firstly proposed. Then three models were built for biomass estimation: (I) model only using backscattering coefficients of ALOS/PALSAR data; (II) model only using penetration depth; (III) model using both of them. The biomass estimated from Lidar data was taken as reference data to evaluate the three different models. The results showed that the combination of backscattering coefficients and penetration depth gave the best accuracy. The forest disturbance has to be considered in forest biomass estimation because of the long time span of ASTER data for generating ASTER GDEM. The spatial homogeneity could be used to improve estimation accuracy.
Minimum Time Search in Uncertain Dynamic Domains with Complex Sensorial Platforms
Authors: Lanillos Pablo , Besada-Portas Eva , Lopez-Orozco Jose , De la Cruz Jesus
Published: August 2014

The minimum time search in uncertain domains is a searching task, which appears in real world problems such as natural disasters and sea rescue operations, where a target has to be found, as soon as possible, by a set of sensor-equipped searchers. The automation of this task, where the time to detect the target is critical, can be achieved by new probabilistic techniques that directly minimize the Expected Time (ET) to detect a dynamic target using the observation probability models and actual observations collected by the sensors on board the searchers. The selected technique, described in algorithmic form in this paper for completeness, has only been previously partially tested with an ideal binary detection model, in spite of being designed to deal with complex non-linear/non-differential sensorial models. This paper covers the gap, testing its performance and applicability over different searching tasks with searchers equipped with different complex sensors. The sensorial models under test vary from stepped detection probabilities to continuous/discontinuous differentiable/non-differentiable detection probabilities dependent on distance, orientation, and structured maps. The analysis of the simulated results of several static and dynamic scenarios performed in this paper validates the applicability of the technique with different types of sensor models.
Vulnerable Family Meetings: A Way of Promoting Team Working in GPs’ Everyday Responses to Child Maltreatment?
Authors: Woodman Jenny , Gilbert Ruth , Glaser Danya , Allister Janice , Brandon Marian
Published: August 2014

This study uses observations of team meetings and interviews with 17 primary care professionals in four GP practices in England to generate hypotheses about how “vulnerable family” team meetings might support responses by GPs to maltreatment-related concerns and joint working with other professionals. These meetings are also called “safeguarding meetings”. The study found that vulnerable family meetings were used as a way of monitoring children or young people and their families and supporting risk assessment by information gathering. Four factors facilitated the meetings: meaningful information flow into the meetings from other agencies, systematic ways of identifying cases for discussion, limiting attendance to core members of the primary care team and locating the meeting as part of routine clinical practice. Our results generate hypotheses about a model of care that can be tested for effectiveness in terms of service measures, child and family outcomes, and as a potential mechanism for other professionals to engage and support GPs in their everyday responses to vulnerable and maltreated children. The potential for adverse as well as beneficial effects should be considered from involving professionals outside the core primary care team (e.g., police, children’s social care, education and mental health services).
Profiling of Amatoxins and Phallotoxins in the Genus Lepiota by Liquid Chromatography Combined with UV Absorbance and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sgambelluri R. , Epis Sara , Sassera Davide , Luo Hong , Angelos Evan , Walton Jonathan
Published: August 2014

Species in the mushroom genus Lepiota can cause fatal mushroom poisonings due to their content of amatoxins such as α-amanitin. Previous studies of the toxin composition of poisonous Lepiota species relied on analytical methods of low sensitivity or resolution. Using liquid chromatography coupled to UV absorbance and mass spectrometry, we analyzed the spectrum of peptide toxins present in six Italian species of Lepiota, including multiple samples of three of them collected in different locations. Field taxonomic identifications were confirmed by sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. For comparison, we also analyzed specimens of Amanita phalloides from Italy and California, a specimen of A. virosa from Italy, and a laboratory-grown sample of Galerina marginata. α-Amanitin, β-amanitin, amanin, and amaninamide were detected in all samples of L. brunneoincarnata, and α-amanitin and γ-amanitin were detected in all samples of L. josserandii. Phallotoxins were not detected in either species. No amatoxins or phallotoxins were detected in L. clypeolaria, L. cristata, L. echinacea, or L. magnispora. The Italian and California isolates of A. phalloides had similar profiles of amatoxins and phallotoxins, although the California isolate contained more β-amanitin relative to α-amanitin. Amaninamide was detected only in A. virosa.
Sublattice asymmetry of impurity doping in graphene: A review
Authors: Lawlor James A , Ferreira Mauro S
Published: August 2014

In this review we highlight recent theoretical and experimental work on sublattice asymmetric doping of impurities in graphene, with a focus on substitutional nitrogen dopants. It is well known that one current limitation of graphene in regards to its use in electronics is that in its ordinary state it exhibits no band gap. By doping one of its two sublattices preferentially it is possible to not only open such a gap, which can furthermore be tuned through control of the dopant concentration, but in theory produce quasi-ballistic transport of electrons in the undoped sublattice, both important qualities for any graphene device to be used competetively in future technology. We outline current experimental techniques for synthesis of such graphene monolayers and detail theoretical efforts to explain the mechanisms responsible for the effect, before suggesting future research directions in this nascent field.
Management of Asthma in School-Aged Children and Adolescents
Authors: Durrani Sandy
Published: August 2014

Asthma is one of the most common childhood diseases in the world and a significant cause of morbidity and health care expenditures. United States and international evidence-based guidelines created and updated in the past 2 decades have significantly improved the consistency and effectiveness of asthma care in children. Assessing severity and monitoring control using the impairment and risk domains is fundamental to effective management. At every visit, the provider should assess environmental triggers and comorbid conditions, review inhaler technique and adherence, and provide an updated asthma action plan. Inhaled corticosteroids remain the preferred controller in persistent childhood asthma; however, especially in young children, a discussion should occur with caregivers regarding possible adverse effects. Similarly, if long-acting beta-2-agonists are added to inhaled corticosteroids at step 3 care and above, the risk of severe asthma-related events should be discussed. Indications for referral to an asthma specialist include difficult-to-treat asthma, step 4 care and above, risk factors for severe asthma related events, subtypes of asthma, and doubts of asthma diagnosis.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2014;43(8):e184–e191.]
Acute Fractures of the Tarsal Navicular
Authors: Rosenbaum Andrew J. , Uhl Richard L. , DiPreta John A.
Published: August 2014

The tarsal navicular plays an integral role in hind-foot motion and gait, and is the keystone of the foot’s medial longitudinal arch. As such, injuries to the navicular can be devastating. Acute avulsion, tuberosity, and body fractures have been described. Fractures of the body result from high-energy trauma and are often seen in conjunction with additional ipsilateral foot injuries. Plain radiographs are the gold standard for diagnosis, with computed tomography helpful in the presence of intra-articular fracture extension. Non-operative treatment is reserved for avulsion injuries and non-displaced body fractures. Open reduction and internal fixation must be performed for all other types, as failure to achieve an anatomic reduction can impede proper locomotion. Complications following operative intervention include pain, stiffness, posttraumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis, nonunion, and hindfoot deformity. [
Orthopedics.
2014; 37(8):541–546.]
Schatzker Type IV Medial Tibial Plateau Fractures: A Computed Tomography–based Morphological Subclassification
Authors: Chang Shi-Min , Zhang Ying-Qi , Yao Meng-Wei , Du Shou-Chao , Li Qing , Guo Zhen
Published: August 2014

Schatzker type IV medial tibial plateau fractures have an unfavorable prognosis, likely due to the mechanism of injury (fracture-dislocation/subluxation type) and possibly due to the involvement of the posterolateral plateau, which is different from previously thought. The aim of this study was to propose a new subclassification of Schatzker type IV fracture patterns based on 2-dimensional (2-D) computed tomography and three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction. The authors defined Schatzker type IV medial tibial plateau fractures as AO/OTA 41 type B fractures (partial articular), with partial or total medial plateau involvement, leaving at least the anterolateral quadrant intact. The images of 42 fractures (42 patients) were evaluated. The fractures were further anatomically divided into 2 groups: Group 1 were classic medial unicondylar fractures and Group 2 were more complicated variants involving both condyles, characterized by medial condyle fractures with lateral plateau extension, usually with articular impaction of the centroposterior lateral plateau. Twelve (29%) cases involved only the medial condyle, and 30 (71%) involved both the medial and lateral condyles. Twenty-nine (69%) cases demonstrated posterior coronal fractures. The most common patterns were bicondylar posteromedial plateau fractures with posterolateral quadrant depression (bicondylar posterior fractures: 14 cases, 33%) and total/subtotal medial condyle fractures with posterolateral quadrant depression (13 cases, 31%). The isolated unicondylar posteromedial split fracture was uncommon (2 cases, 5%). Computed tomography–based reconstruction enhances the understanding of fracture anatomy and the relationships between fracture fragments. In Schatzker type IV medial tibial plateau fractures, the involvement of posterolateral quadrants is common.
In Vivo Model to Measure Bone Repair Efficacy of Nanoparticle-based Drug Delivery
Authors: Ackerson R. Michael , Shum Laura C. , Berry Andrew R. , Bucknell Allan L. , King Karen B.
Published: August 2014

Bone repair required for successful arthroplasty can be compromised in patients with comorbid conditions, such as osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. Biological compounds have been proposed to promote bone health and repair. The authors have designed a new animal model for testing bone promoting compounds in the in vivo environment. For initial validation of this model, they used a synthetic agonist of a nuclear receptor, liver X receptor, which has been postulated to play a regulatory role in modulating bone growth. A distal femoral unicortical osteotomy was surgically created on skeletally mature C57Bl/6 male and female mice. A nanoparticle carrier delivery system was used to directly introduce N,N-dimethyl-3β-hydroxycholenamide into the osteotomy. At 35 days post-procedure, the femora were harvested and specimens were obtained for histologic processing and qualitative analysis. The results indicate that the carrier nanoparticles entered the osteotomy defect. Results also indicate that bone repair occurred, although significant differences between groups were not detected in the current study. This study validates the mouse model for testing bone repair promoting compounds. This model can be combined with transgenic or other mouse models to simulate problematic bone repair environments, can be used with a variety of drug carriers, and can test many types of interventional compounds to evaluate potential orthopedic therapeutic applications.
Treatment of Segmental Tibial Fractures With Supercutaneous Plating
Authors: He Xianfeng , Zhang Jingwei , Li Ming , Yu Yihui , Zhu Limei
Published: August 2014

Segmental tibial fractures usually follow a high-energy trauma and are often associated with many complications. The purpose of this report is to describe the authors’ results in the treatment of segmental tibial fractures with supercutaneous locking plates used as external fixators. Between January 2009 and March 2012, a total of 20 patients underwent external plating (supercutaneous plating) of the segmental tibial fractures using a less-invasive stabilization system locking plate (Synthes, Paoli, Pennsylvania). Six fractures were closed and 14 were open (6 grade IIIa, 2 grade IIIb, 4 grade II, and 2 grade I, according to the Gustilo classification). When imaging studies confirmed bone union, the plates and screws were removed in the outpatient clinic. Average time of follow-up was 23 months (range, 12–47 months). All fractures achieved union. Median time to union was 19 weeks (range, 12–40 weeks) for the proximal fractures and 22 weeks (range, 12–42 weeks) for the distal fractures. Functional results were excellent in 17 patients and good in 3. Delayed union of the fracture occurred in 2 patients. All patients’ radiographs showed normal alignment. No rotational deformities and leg shortening were seen. No incidences of deep infection or implant failures occurred. Minor screw tract infection occurred in 2 patients. A new 1-stage protocol using supercutaneous plating as a definitive fixator for segmental tibial fractures is less invasive, has a lower cost, and has a shorter hospitalization time. Surgeons can achieve good reduction, soft tissue reconstruction, stable fixation, and high union rates using supercutaneous plating. The current patients obtained excellent knee and ankle joint motion and good functional outcomes and had a comfortable clinical course.
Dermal Burn During Hip Arthroscopy
Authors: Curtin Brian , Friebe Ilvy
Published: August 2014

Radiofrequency devices are often used during arthroscopic surgery, most commonly of the shoulder and knee, and increasingly in hip arthroscopy. The most commonly described complication is elevation of joint temperature, leading to capsular shrinkage, chondrolysis, and nerve damage. A less commonly reported complication is that of dermal burns from the heated irrigation fluid. There are several case reports describing dermal burns after shoulder arthroscopy; however, to the authors’ knowledge, there are none describing the complication in hip arthroscopy that is often performed by surgeons doing limited if any shoulder arthroscopy. The authors report this case to raise awareness that the use of radiofrequency devices can also lead to extra-articular complications because of the effect of elevated irrigant fluid temperatures on the patient’s skin. Sufficiently high temperatures were generated inside the joint, causing a superficial second-degree burn from the outflow irrigant. In the course of instrument switching from sucker/shaver to radiofrequency wand, the outflow valve was inadvertently left open with no attached suction while the radiofrequency wand was in use. Most second-degree burns like the one reported require only conservative therapy with cool compresses to decrease the temperature of the wound. The authors did recommend bacitracin ointment to prevent superficial wound infection, however unlikely with no disruption of the skin. The authors continue to use radio-frequency devices in hip arthroscopy, but are vigilant to maintain dedicated suction at the outflow tubing throughout the procedure. Surgeons should take strict precautions to avoid this preventable complication and follow all manufacturer instructions on the use of such devices.
A Truncated Human NKG2D Splice Isoform Negatively Regulates NKG2D-Mediated Function
Authors: Karimi Mobin A. , Aguilar Oscar A. , Zou Baixiang , Bachmann Michael H. , Carlyle James R. , Baldwin Cynthia L. , Kambayashi Taku
Published: August 2014

Natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) is a stimulatory receptor expressed by NK cells and a subset of T cells. NKG2D is crucial in diverse aspects of innate and adaptive immune functions. In this study, we characterize a novel splice variant of human NKG2D that encodes a truncated receptor lacking the ligand-binding ectodomain. This truncated NKG2D (NKG2DTR) isoform was detected in primary human NK and CD8+ T cells. Overexpression of NKG2DTR severely attenuated cell killing and IFN-γ release mediated by full-length NKG2D (NKG2DFL). In contrast, specific knockdown of endogenously expressed NKG2DTR enhanced NKG2D-mediated cytotoxicity, suggesting that NKG2DTR is a negative regulator of NKG2DFL. Biochemical studies demonstrated that NKG2DTR was bound to DNAX-activated protein of 10 kDa (DAP10) and interfered with the interaction of DAP10 with NKG2DFL. In addition, NKG2DTR associated with NKG2DFL, which led to forced intracellular retention, resulting in decreased surface NKG2D expression. Taken together, these data suggest that competitive interference of NKG2D/DAP10 complexes by NKG2DTR constitutes a novel mechanism for regulation of NKG2D-mediated function in human CD8+ T cells and NK cells.