bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultraprecise phase manipulation in integrated photonic quantum circuits with generalized directional couplers
Authors: Heilmann R. , Keil R. , Gräfe M. , Nolte S. , Szameit A.
Published: August 2014

We present an innovative approach for ultra-precise phase manipulation in integrated photonic quantum circuits. To this end, we employ generalized directional couplers that utilize a detuning of the propagation constant in optical waveguides by the overlap of adjacent waveguide modes. We demonstrate our findings in experiments with classical as well as quantum light.
Transition edge sensors with few-mode ballistic thermal isolation
Authors: Osman D. , Withington S. , Goldie D. J. , Glowacka D. M.
Published: August 2014

We have fabricated Transition Edge Sensors (TESs) whose thermal characteristics are completely characterised by few-mode ballistic phonon exchange with the heat bath. These TESs have exceptionally small amorphous SiNx support legs: 0.2 μm thick, 0.7–1.0 μm wide, and 1.0 to 4.0 μm long. We show, using classical elastic wave theory, that it is only necessary to know the geometry and bulk elastic constants of the material to calculate the thermal conductance and fluctuation noise. Our devices operate in the few-mode regime, between 5 and 7 modes per leg, and have noise equivalent powers (NEPs) of 1.2 aW Hz−1∕2. The NEP is dominated by the thermal fluctuation noise in the legs, which itself is dominated by phonon shot-noise. Thus, TESs have been demonstrated whose thermal characteristics are fully accounted for by an elastic noise-wave model. Our current devices, and second-generation devices based on patterned phononic filters, can be used to produce optically compact, mechanically robust, highly sensitive TES imaging arrays, circumventing many of the problems inherent in conventional long-legged designs.
Electrochemical model of the polyaniline based organic memristive device
Authors: Demin V. A. , Erokhin V. V. , Kashkarov P. K. , Kovalchuk M. V.
Published: August 2014

The electrochemical organic memristive device with polyaniline active layer is a stand-alone device designed and realized for reproduction of some synapse properties in the innovative electronic circuits, including the neuromorphic networks capable for learning. In this work, a new theoretical model of the polyaniline memristive is presented. The developed model of organic memristive functioning was based on the detailed consideration of possible electrochemical processes occuring in the active zone of this device. Results of the calculation have demonstrated not only the qualitative explanation of the characteristics observed in the experiment but also the quantitative similarities of the resultant current values. It is shown how the memristive could behave at zero potential difference relative to the reference electrode. This improved model can establish a basis for the design and prediction of properties of more complicated circuits and systems (including stochastic ones) based on the organic memristive devices.
Crystal structure and magnetic properties of Bi0.8A0.2FeO3 (A = La, Ca, Sr, Ba) multiferroics using neutron diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy
Authors: Rangi Manisha , Agarwal Ashish , Sanghi Sujata , Singh Ripandeep , Meena S. S. , Das A.
Published: August 2014

Bi0.8A0.2FeO3 (A = La, Ca, Sr, Ba) multiferroics were studied using x-ray, neutron diffraction and magnetization techniques. All the samples crystallized in rhombohedral structure with space group R3c. The compounds exhibit antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering at 300 K and no evidence of further structural or magnetic transition was observed on lowering of temperature below it. The magnetic structure of these substituted compounds are found to be collinear G-type AFM structure as against the non collinear incommensurate magnetic structure reported in the case of parent compound. The moments on Fe at 6 K are aligned along the a-axis in the case of Ca-doped sample. With increase in the ionic radii of dopant, the moments are found to be aligned in the ac plane and the angle of tilt away from the a-axis increases. The observed change in the magnetic structure with substitution is attributed to the intrinsic structural distortion as evidenced by the change in the bond angle (Fe-O-Fe) and bond distances (Bi-O, Fe-O). It has been found that heterovalent substitution A2+ results in the formation of oxygen vacancies in the parent lattices as the possibility of Fe4+ ruled out by Mössbauer spectra recorded at room temperature. Higher value of remnant magnetization (0.4187 emu/g) and coercivity (4.7554kOe) is observed in Bi0.8Ba0.2FeO3 sample in comparison to other substituted samples revealing a strong correlation between ionic radii and magnetization.
Circuit-quantum electrodynamics with direct magnetic coupling to single-atom spin qubits in isotopically enriched 28Si
Authors: Tosi Guilherme , Mohiyaddin Fahd A. , Huebl Hans , Morello Andrea
Published: August 2014

Recent advances in silicon nanofabrication have allowed the manipulation of spin qubits that are extremely isolated from noise sources, being therefore the semiconductor equivalent of single atoms in vacuum. We investigate the possibility of directly coupling an electron spin qubit to a superconducting resonator magnetic vacuum field. By using resonators modified to increase the vacuum magnetic field at the qubit location, and isotopically purified 28Si substrates, it is possible to achieve coupling rates faster than the single spin dephasing. This opens up new avenues for circuit-quantum electrodynamics with spins, and provides a pathway for dispersive read-out of spin qubits via superconducting resonators.
Multi-energy conversion of Gd5 (Si2Ge2)-poly (vinylidene fluoride), a hybrid material
Authors: Ozaydin M. F. , Liang H.
Published: August 2014

A class of multiphase composites is reported here. These composites consist of magnetocaloric Gd5Si2Ge2 (GSG) particles embedded in a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix. Under an external magnetic field, those materials were found to generate an electrical voltage up to 0.11 V, equivalent to the power density of 14.3 mW/cm3 Oe when the concentration of Gd5Si2Ge2 was at 4 wt. %. This was due to the magnet-induced strain in Gd5Si2Ge2 leading to the voltage generation in the piezoelectric polymer. The power density of the hybrid system has proven to be significantly higher than each single phase alone. When tested individually PVDF has a power density of 3.25 mW/cm3 Oe and Gd5Si2Ge2 has 0 power output. The coupling of magnetic and piezoelectric effects enables multi-energy conversion that is unique for device design and clean energy harvesting.
Modeling of formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides from a proposed renewable energy biogas facility in Canada
Authors: Abdul-Wahab Sabah Ahmed , Lohi Ali , Yetilmezsoy Kaan , Elkamel Ali , Chan Keziah
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to use the CALPUFF modeling system, an effective and reliable atmospheric modeling tool, to predict the concentrations of formaldehyde (HCHO) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) released, due to the combustion of biogas in the combined heat and power (CHP) engines, from the Kawartha renewable energy generation facility at its proposed location in Ontario, Canada. In this study, HCHO and NOx were selected as the indicator and point source pollutants since they were the most significant products of biogas combustion emitted during the facility's normal operations (production of electricity and heat). The Lambert Conformal Conic projection coordinate system was implemented for the operation of the CALPUFF model. The proposed modeling scheme was coupled with both surface meteorological data (from 00:00 to 23:00) on an hourly basis and 12-h interval-based upper air meteorological data (from 00:00 to 12:00) to simulate the emission of these pollutants for the four seasonal Eastern Time meteorological conditions of winter (January 11–13, 2013), spring (April 14–16, 2013), summer (July 10–12, 2013), and autumn (November 16–18, 2013). The results from the CALPUFF dispersion model clearly demonstrated that the maximum 1-h average concentrations of both HCHO and NOx, emitted from the combustion of biogas (composed of 60% CH4 and 40% CO2) in five CHP engines (operation load = 100%, maximum electricity generation capacity = 9.8 MW), were found to be within the limits defined by Ontario Regulation 419/05.
Declining trends in the proportion of non-viral sexually transmissible infections reported by STD clinics in the US, 2000–10
Authors: Owusu-Edusei Kwame , Sayegh Bianca J. , Harvey Alesia J. , Nelson Robert J.
Published: August 2014

Background Recent budget shortfalls may have resulted in decreases in the number of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) reported from sexually transmitted disease clinics (STDCs) in the United States (US). The objective of this study was to examine the proportion of cases reported from STDCs for three non-viral STIs in the last decade. Methods: Data from the national surveillance database on primary and secondary (P&S) syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia cases for 2000–10 were extracted. The percentage of cases reported by STDCs for the nation and for each of the 48 contiguous states were then computed. Finally, the χ2 trend test for proportions was used to determine the annual average decrease/increase in the percentage of cases reported by STDCs for the nation and for each state. Results: Results demonstrate that the average annual declines in the proportion of P&S syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia cases reported from STDCs were 1.43% (P < 0.01), 1.31% (P < 0.01), and 0.31% (P < 0.01), respectively. Additionally, most of the states with statistically significant trends (P < 0.05) in the proportion of cases reported by STDCs had negative slopes: 86% (25/29) for P&S syphilis, 89% (34/38) for gonorrhoea, and 63% (27/43) for chlamydia. Conclusion: These results document the declining role of STDCs in STI prevention and control efforts in the US. Further studies are needed to assess the direct or indirect impact of the decline in the proportion of cases from STDCs on the overall STI control and prevention efforts in the US and its implications for the future.
Interactions of Rice Tungro Bacilliform Pararetrovirus and Its Protein P4 with Plant RNA-Silencing Machinery
Authors: Rajeswaran Rajendran , Golyaev Victor , Seguin Jonathan , Zvereva Anna S. , Farinelli Laurent , Pooggin Mikhail M.
Published: August 2014

Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-directed gene silencing plays a major role in antiviral defense. Virus-derived siRNAs inhibit viral replication in infected cells and potentially move to neighboring cells, immunizing them from incoming virus. Viruses have evolved various ways to evade and suppress siRNA production or action. Here, we show that 21-, 22-, and 24-nucleotide (nt) viral siRNAs together constitute up to 19% of total small RNA population of Oryza sativa plants infected with Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) and cover both strands of the RTBV DNA genome. However, viral siRNA hotspots are restricted to a short noncoding region between transcription and reverse-transcription start sites. This region generates double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) precursors of siRNAs and, in pregenomic RNA, forms a stable secondary structure likely inaccessible to siRNA-directed cleavage. In transient assays, RTBV protein P4 suppressed cell-to-cell spread of silencing but enhanced cell-autonomous silencing, which correlated with reduced 21-nt siRNA levels and increased 22-nt siRNA levels. Our findings imply that RTBV generates decoy dsRNA that restricts siRNA production to the structured noncoding region and thereby protects other regions of the viral genome from repressive action of siRNAs, while the viral protein P4 interferes with cell-to-cell spread of antiviral silencing.
Quantitative Trait Loci from Two Genotypes of Oat (Avena sativa) Conditioning Resistance to Puccinia coronata
Authors: Babiker Ebrahiem M. , Gordon Tyler C. , Jackson Eric W. , Chao Shiaoman , Harrison Stephen A. , Carson Martin L. , Obert Don E. , Bonman J. Michael
Published: August 2014

Developing oat cultivars with partial resistance to crown rust would be beneficial and cost-effective for disease management. Two recombinant inbred-line populations were generated by crossing the susceptible cultivar Provena with two partially resistant sources, CDC Boyer and breeding line 94197A1-9-2-2-2-5. A third mapping population was generated by crossing the partially resistant sources to validate the quantitative trait locus (QTL) results. The three populations were evaluated for crown rust severity in the field at Louisiana State University (LSU) in 2009 and 2010 and at the Cereal Disease Laboratory (CDL) in St. Paul, MN, in 2009, 2010, and 2011. An iSelect platform assay containing 5,744 oat single nucleotide polymorphisms was used to genotype the populations. From the 2009 CDL test, linkage analyses revealed two QTLs for partial resistance in the Provena/CDC Boyer population on chromosome 19A. One of the 19A QTLs was also detected in the 2009 LSU test. Another QTL was detected on chromosome 12D in the CDL 2009 test. In the Provena/94197A1-9-2-2-2-5 population, only one QTL was detected, on chromosome 13A, in the CDL 2011 test. The 13A QTL from the Provena/94197A1-9-2-2-2-5 population was validated in the CDC Boyer/94197A1-9-2-2-2-5 population in the CDL 2010 and 2011 tests. Comparative analysis of the significant marker sequences with the rice genome database revealed 15 candidate genes for disease resistance on chromosomes 4 and 6 of rice. These genes could be potential targets for cloning from the two resistant parents.
Trapped modes around freely floating bodies in a two-layer fluid channel
Authors: Cal Filipe S. , Dias Gonçalo A. S. , Videman Juha H.
Published: August 2014

Unlike the trapping of time-harmonic water waves by fixed obstacles, the oscillation of freely floating structures gives rise to a complex nonlinear spectral problem. Still, through a convenient elimination scheme the system simplifies to a linear spectral problem for a self-adjoint operator in a Hilbert space. Under symmetry assumptions on the geometry of the fluid domain, we present conditions guaranteeing the existence of trapped modes in a two-layer fluid channel. Numerous examples of floating bodies supporting trapped modes are given.
Unbiased analysis of potential targets of breast cancer susceptibility loci by Capture Hi-C
Authors: Dryden Nicola H. , Broome Laura R. , Dudbridge Frank , Johnson Nichola , Orr Nick , Schoenfelder Stefan , Nagano Takashi , Andrews Simon , Wingett Steven , Kozarewa Iwanka , Assiotis Ioannis , Fenwick Kerry , Maguire Sarah L. , Campbell James , Natrajan Rachael , Lambros Maryou , Perrakis Eleni , Ashworth Alan , Fraser Peter , Fletcher Olivia
Published: August 2014

Genome-wide association studies have identified more than 70 common variants that are associated with breast cancer risk. Most of these variants map to non-protein-coding regions and several map to gene deserts, regions of several hundred kilobases lacking protein-coding genes. We hypothesized that gene deserts harbor long-range regulatory elements that can physically interact with target genes to influence their expression. To test this, we developed Capture Hi-C (CHi-C), which, by incorporating a sequence capture step into a Hi-C protocol, allows high-resolution analysis of targeted regions of the genome. We used CHi-C to investigate long-range interactions at three breast cancer gene deserts mapping to 2q35, 8q24.21, and 9q31.2. We identified interaction peaks between putative regulatory elements (“bait fragments”) within the captured regions and “targets” that included both protein-coding genes and long noncoding (lnc) RNAs over distances of 6.6 kb to 2.6 Mb. Target protein-coding genes were IGFBP5, KLF4, NSMCE2, and MYC; and target lncRNAs included DIRC3, PVT1, and CCDC26. For one gene desert, we were able to define two SNPs (rs12613955 and rs4442975) that were highly correlated with the published risk variant and that mapped within the bait end of an interaction peak. In vivo ChIP-qPCR data show that one of these, rs4442975, affects the binding of FOXA1 and implicate this SNP as a putative functional variant.
Preparation of Thermally Stable Microcapsules with a Chitosan–Silica Hybrid
Authors: Kang Hong‐Yi , Chen Hui‐Huang
Published: August 2014

Addition of microcapsules with a high dielectric constant and low specific heat capacity to a battered layer was designed to create a higher temperature in the crust than in the prefried fish nuggets to prevent the water vapor in the fish nuggets from migrating to the crust during microwave heating. Therefore, chitosan–silica hybrids and soybean oil were utilized to prepare the shell and core of the thermally stable microcapsules (MCCS), respectively. The MCCSwere prepared by sol–gel coacervation from an oil‐in‐water emulsion. The sodium silicate was hydrolyzed and coacervated through polymerization for 24 h at pH 5. The zeta potential analysis indicated that chitosan with a positive charge and silica with a negative charge interacted through electrostatic attraction to form a hybrid shell. The volume mean particle size and encapsulation efficiency of the MCCSwere 9.6 ± 0.2 μm and 75.6% ± 1.3%, respectively, when oil/chitosan = 0.2 and chitosan/silica = 0.5 (w/w). In addition to H‐bonding and electrostatic attraction, Si–O–N bonds were formed between chitosan and silica. Dehydration of the bound water in the MCCSwas observed in the range of 25 to 250 °C in the differential scanning calorimetry thermal analysis, with the lack of apparent thermal peaks indicating its high thermal stability. The decrease of force to cut the crust observed by texture analysis as well as the increase of hedonic score by consumer acceptance test revealed the addition of 1% MCCSsignificantly improved the crispness of the crust in the microwave‐reheated nuggets.
Infrastructure and interpretation: Meters, dams, and state imagination in Scotland and India
Authors: COLEMAN LEO
Published: August 2014

The technical infrastructures of modern life—energy, communications, transport—stand at the juncture between material orderings of society and collective meaning. Public utilities are both material and symbolic, and both aspects require maintenance—and anthropological understanding. However, recent anthropological approaches building from science studies have tended to pursue “flat” descriptions that replace mystical or hypostatizing concepts of “social forces” with material associations and have focused on micrological discipline rather than ritual sites where collective identity is formed. By contrast, I identify an “aporetic relation” between material ordering and symbolic form as the site of ritual, and hermeneutic, processes by which large‐scale political collectives are built up—and infrastructures are shaped to serve collective projects. I analyze examples of contemporary and historical infrastructural politics from India and Scotland to develop insights into how collectivities and states are formed, interpreted, and challenged in symbolic contests over their infrastructures.
Cashinahua perspectives on functional anatomy: Ontology, ontogenesis, and biomedical education in Amazonia
Authors: MCCALLUM CECILIA
Published: August 2014

Ontological dimensions of encounters between Brazilian biomedical Cartesianism and Amerindian perspectivism come into sharp focus in an intensive course in functional anatomy offered to trainee indigenous health agents in Acre state, Brazil. After presenting the biomedics’ rationalization of the course, which centered on the supervised dissection of a cadaver, I look at Cashinahua students’ accounts of their participation in the training and consider the broader implications of this particular engagement between two profoundly different philosophical traditions from the angle of the ontogenesis of meaning. I contextualize the students’ views of the cadaver through discussion of Cashinahua phenomenology of the body and cumulative personhood. Rather than revealing a confrontation between distinct “cultures,” as suggested by the term interculturality, analysis supports a focus on the interplay between ontology and epistemology within historically specific ontogenetic processes.
Cuttingbella figura: Irony, crisis, and secondhand clothes in South Italy
Authors: PIPYROU STAVROULA
Published: August 2014

Ravaged by financial austerity, people in Reggio Calabria, South Italy, are deeply concerned about their ability to maintain abella figura(beautiful appearance). The introduction of secondhand clothes markets in 2010 was met with high emotions, bringing to the surface anxieties about the smothering social pressures to display a certain appearance and status in public. In troublesome encounters with secondhand clothes donated from northern Europe, actors adopt an ironic outlook, oscillating between fundamental categories of inclusion and exclusion, such as bella figura and secondhand citizenship, that conflate global flows of charity with colonization. Secondhand clothes are a possible solution to maintaining bella figura but only by means of delicate waste management.
The conservative management of renal trauma: a literature review and practical clinical guideline from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: McCombie Steve P. , Thyer Isaac , Corcoran Niall M. , Rowling Christopher , Dyer John , Le Roux Anton , Kuan Melvyn , Wallace D. Michael A. , Hayne Dickon
Published: August 2014

Objective

To review the literature and make practical recommendations regarding the conservative management of renal trauma.

Patients and Methods

Relevant articles and guidelines published between 1980 and 2014 were reviewed.

Graded recommendations were constructed by a multi‐disciplinary panel consisting of urologists, radiologists, and infectious disease physicians.

These recommendations underwent formal review and debate at the Western Australian USANZ 2013 state conference, and were presented at the USANZ 2014 annual scientific meeting.

Results

The literature on the conservative management of renal trauma is reviewed within the framework of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) kidney injury severity scale.

Graded recommendations are made regarding several key topics including: imaging, inpatient management, antibiotics, return to activity, and follow‐up.

Grade IV injuries and intraoperative consults are examined separately in view of the difficulties these groups cause in making appropriate treatment decisions.

Conclusion

A practical clinical guideline is provided regarding the conservative management of renal trauma.
Shifts in Dominance and Species Assemblages over Two Decades in Alternative Successions in Central Amazonia
Authors: Longworth J. Benjamin , Mesquita Rita C. , Bentos Tony V. , Moreira Marcelo P. , Massoca Paulo E. , Williamson G. Bruce
Published: August 2014

Following perturbation, different assemblages that originate under the same abiotic conditions initiate successional pathways that may continue to diverge or converge toward an eventual climax. Forest regeneration in the Central Amazon begins with alternative successional pathways associated with prior land use. In a 12‐yr study of secondary forests, initially ranging between 2 and 19 yrs after abandonment, we compared species compositions through time along two pathways, abandoned clear‐cuts dominated by Cecropia and abandoned pastures dominated by Vismia; prior results at these sites have not directly evaluated species composition. At all ages, the Chao–Jaccard similarity index of species composition was highest comparing pasture transects to each other, lowest comparing pastures transects to clear‐cut transects, and intermediate comparing clear‐cut transects to each other. Through time, clear‐cut transects became less similar to each other, as did pasture transects. Changes in similarity reflected declining dominance along both pathways, but Cecropia dominance of clear‐cut transects declined more rapidly than Vismia dominance of pasture transects. A rich association of species replaced Cecropia in clear‐cut transects, resulting in decreased similarity among them. In pasture transects one genus, Bellucia, replaced the lost Vismia, so similarity of Vismia transects was maintained despite some turnover in dominance. Overall, even with turnover of individuals and decline of the dominant pioneers, the alternative pathways exhibited strikingly different species assemblies after two decades of succession, suggesting that the effect of land use persists well beyond initial floristic composition.
Increasing the sensitivity of endocervical curettings by performing ThinPrep® Pap on transport container fluid: is diagnostic material going down the drain?
Authors: Lastra R. R. , Meykler S. E. , Baloch Z. W. , Barroeta J. E.
Published: August 2014

Objective

The sensitivity of endocervical curettage (ECC) can be suboptimal because of limited epithelial tissue. The false‐negative rate for ECC in patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia involving the endocervical canal has been reported to be 45%. ECC samples are transported to pathology in formalin‐ or saline‐filled containers; this fluid is discarded after the specimen has been submitted. We evaluated the utility of performing liquid‐based cytological preparations from ECC transport container fluid as a way to increase the sensitivity of ECC specimens.

Methods

Consecutive ECC specimens received at one of the two participating institutions were selected prospectively. A surgical pathology mesh bag was placed over a ThinPrep® CytoLyt® solution container, and the specimen was filtered through the bag, collecting the transport fluid in the container. The CytoLyt® was processed to obtain a container fluid ThinPrep® (CF‐TP) liquid‐based Papanicolaou (Pap) slide. The CF‐TP slides were reviewed and the findings were compared with those from the ECC and follow‐up specimens.

Results

The cohort included 53 patients. Discrepancies between CF‐TP and ECC were seen in 14 of the 53 patients (26%); a more significant lesion was identified in CF‐TP relative to ECC in 13 of these cases. CF‐TP diagnosis was confirmed in eight of 11 cases with histological follow‐up. A positive CF‐TP result was confirmed by histology in six of nine cases with negative ECC.

Conclusions

Combining the pathological evaluation of ECC specimens with liquid‐based cytology performed on the transport container fluid can increase the diagnostic sensitivity of the ECC procedure for the detection of cervical lesions.
Internal Social Capital and the Attraction of Early Contributions in Crowdfunding
Authors: Colombo Massimo G. , Franzoni Chiara , Rossi–Lamastra Cristina
Published: August 2014

The nascent crowdfunding literature has highlighted the existence of a self–reinforcing pattern whereby contributions received in the early days of a campaign accelerate its success. After discussing what sustains this pattern, we maintain that the internal social capital that proponents may develop inside the crowdfunding community provides crucial assistance in igniting a self–reinforcing mechanism. Results of an econometric analysis of a sample of 669 Kickstarter projects are consistent with this view. Moreover, the effect of internal social capital on the success of a campaign is fully mediated by the capital and backers collected in the campaign's early days.
Targeted genome regulation and modification using transcription activator‐like effectors
Authors: Scott James N. F. , Kupinski Adam P. , Boyes Joan
Published: August 2014

Transcription activator‐like effectors (TALEs) are immensely powerful new tools for genome engineering that can be directed to bind to almost any DNA sequence of choice. They originate from the Xanthomonas species of plant pathogenic bacteria and, in nature, these proteins increase the virulence of Xanthomonas. However, in 2009, the DNA binding code of TALEs was deciphered and, subsequently, TALE proteins have been exploited for many diverse applications. Custom TALEs that target almost any required DNA sequence can be readily constructed in < 1 week. One major application is gene editing: TALEs fused with the Fok I endonuclease catalytic domain can induce double‐stranded breaks at a chosen genomic location, similar to zinc finger nucleases. Designer TALE transcription factors have also been developed by linking TALEs to a transcription AD, such as VP64. More recently, TALEs have been developed that can repress transcription, bind methylated DNA or act as fluorescent chromatin probes. In the present review, we describe the assembly of designer TALEs, their expanding range of current and potential future applications, and briefly discuss alternatives, namely, zinc finger nucleases and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat associated protein 9.
Quality of measurements of acute surgical and traumatic wounds using a digital wound‐analysing tool
Authors: Landa Dymmie LC , van Dishoeck Anne‐Margreet , Steyerberg Ewout W , Hovius Steven ER
Published: August 2014

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of measurements using a wound‐analysing tool and their interpretability. Wound surface areas and tissue types, such as granulation, slough and necrosis, in twenty digital photographs were measured using a specific software program. The ratio of these tissue types in a wound was calculated using a wound profile. We calculated the intraclass coefficient or κ for reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM) and smallest detectable change (SDC). The inter‐rater reliability intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0·99 for surface area, 0·76 for granulation, 0·67 for slough and 0·22 for necrosis. The profiles gave an overall κ of 0·16. For test–retest reliability, the ICC was 0·99 for surface area, 0·81 for granulation, 0·80 for slough and 0·97 for necrosis. The agreement of the applied profiles in the test–retest was 66% (40–100). SEM and SDC for surface area were 0·10/0·27; for granulation, 6·88/19·08; for slough, 7·17/19·87; and for necrosis, 0·35/0·98, respectively. Measuring wound surface area and tissue types by means of digital photo analysis is a reliable and applicable method for monitoring wound healing in acute wounds in daily practice as well as in research.
Possible new therapeutic approach for obesity‐related diseases: Role of adiponectin receptor agonists
Authors: Lee Chien‐Hsing , Hung Yi‐Jen
Published: August 2014

Adiponectin is a major adipokine that seems to have a crucial role in the protection from many metabolic abnormalities. There have been several reports that suggest a strong inverse relationship between plasma levels of adiponectin and the severity of obesity and its comorbidities, such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Restoring adiponectin levels has salient benefits in many of the obesity‐related diseases, which provides a strong rationale for adiponectin‐based therapeutics for treating metabolic abnormalities. A Japanese team of researchers has screened and identified an orally active compound that binds to and activates the adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) and AdipoR2 receptors that are named AdipRon. This molecule ameliorates insulin resistance and glucose intolerance in obese animal models, and also extends the shortened lifespan of diabetic obese mice. If this work can be extended to humans, the improved safety and efficacy of these orally active adiponectin agonists could offer a promising new approach to treating obesity‐related diseases.
Pro Re Nata Prescribing in a Population Receiving Palliative Care: A Prospective Consecutive Case Note Review
Authors: Russell Bethany J. , Rowett Debra , Currow David C.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To document pro re nata (PRN) prescribing practices and to identify patterns with respect to clinical characteristics and the medications prescribed.

Design

Prospective consecutive case note review.

Setting

Two interrelated consultative hospice and palliative care services in regional Victoria, Australia.

Participants

Terminally ill inpatients and community‐based individuals (N = 203) at the time of referral to a hospice or palliative care service.

Measurements

Number of medications that the referring physician prescribed on a PRN basis and on a regular basis for symptom control; comorbid disease, performance status, comorbidity burden, disease phase, and survival.

Results

Mean number of PRN medications prescribed was 3.0, with significantly higher rates in the last week of life (rate ratio (RR) = 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07–1.59) and during the terminal phase of disease (RR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.09–1.68). One‐quarter of prescriptions were for medications that met the Beers consensus criteria for potentially inappropriate medication use in elderly persons.

Conclusion

These descriptive baseline data are new. A mean of three different medications allows responsiveness to a variety of fluctuating symptoms, but there was a large range within the sample, indicating that some individuals and their caregivers have a high burden of administration‐related decision‐making.
Comparatively examining of the apelin‐13 levels in the Capoeta trutta (Heckel, 1843) and Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Köprücü S. , Algül S.
Published: August 2014

Apelin is a recently discovered peptide produced by several tissues in the various vertebrates and fish. Apelin has been suggested to have role in regulation of many diverse physiological functions including food intake, energy homoeostasis, immunity, osmoregulation and reproduction. In this study, apelin‐13 levels in the blood serum of Cyprinus carpio and Capoetta trutta were determined. Then the results were compared between two species and sexes of each species. Apelin‐13 level was analysed using the enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) kit (Rat apelin‐13 ELISA kit, catalog no: CSB‐E14367r). Apelin‐13 level in the blood serum of C. trutta was significantly higher than those of the C. carpio (p < 0.05). However, its levels were observed to be no significant difference (p > 0.05) that compared to between sexes of each species. There was a significant negative correlation (r = −0.829, p = 0.0001) between the apelin‐13 level and body weight of C. carpio. However, no significant correlation (r = −0.022, p = 0.924) between the apelin‐13 level and weight of C. trutta observed.
Effect of Deodorant and Antiperspirant Use and Presence or Absence of Axillary Hair on Absorption of Testosterone 2% Solution Applied to Men's Axillae
Authors: Small David S. , Ni Xiao , Polzer Paula , Vart Richard , Satonin Darlene K. , Mitchell Malcolm I.
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Testosterone 2% solution is applied to axillae and is indicated for testosterone replacement therapy in males deficient in endogenous testosterone.

Aim

This open-label crossover study evaluated the effect of deodorant/antiperspirant use and presence or absence of axillary hair on absorption of testosterone solution.

Methods

Healthy males (N = 30; ≥50 years of age with baseline testosterone <400 ng/dL) were randomized to one of four treatment sequences involving six treatments. Each treatment consisted of one 1.5-mL dose of testosterone 2% solution (30 mg of testosterone) applied to each axilla. Axillae were unshaved or shaved, and were untreated or pretreated with deodorant/antiperspirant.

Main Outcome Measures

Blood samples were taken over 72 hours after each dose for measuring serum testosterone concentrations.

Results

Profiles of mean testosterone concentrations were similar across treatments. For all treatments, area under the concentration-time curve through 24 hours (AUC[0–24]) and 72 hours (AUC[0–72]), and maximum total testosterone concentration (Cmax) were similar except for 15% lower Cmax when treatment was applied after deodorant/antiperspirant to shaved vs. unshaved axillae (least squares mean, 531 ng/dL vs. 626 ng/dL, respectively; P = 0.011). This difference is not considered clinically significant. The 95% confidence intervals for AUC(0–24), AUC(0–72), and Cmax fell within the traditional bioequivalence limits of 0.8 to 1.25. Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was low (<15%) in each treatment arm, and most TEAEs were mild.

Conclusions

Absorption of testosterone 2% solution was unaffected by use of deodorant/antiperspirant or by the presence or absence of axillary hair. Testosterone solution was generally well tolerated.
Critical buccal bone dimensions along implants
Authors: Merheb Joe , Quirynen Marc , Teughels Wim
Published: August 2014

The buccal bone plate is a component of the alveolar process tightly related to the tooth it supports. A plethora of physiological and pathological events can induce its remodeling. Understanding this remodeling process and its extent is of major importance for the practitioner as it can affect the functional and esthetic outcome of implant surgery at the involved sites. Bone remodeling and resorption of the buccal bone plate are inevitable after tooth loss or extraction. To limit resorption, several ridge‐preservation techniques of varying efficacy have been described. Bone resorption is equally found to occur upon implant placement and is thought to be a result of the surgical trauma inflicted as well as an adaptation process of the tissues to the new foreign body. Because of the implications of bone resorption on the soft‐tissue levels and the general esthetic outcome, it is of primary importance for the practitioner to be able to evaluate the hard tissues and the inherent resorption risks in an effort to optimize the treatment strategies. Based on limited short‐term data, the present general opinion advises the need for a 2‐mm‐thick buccal bone plate in order to avoid vertical bone resorption.
Immediate implants at fresh extraction sockets: from myth to reality
Authors: Vignoletti Fabio , Sanz Mariano
Published: August 2014

In recent years, immediate implant placement has become a common clinical therapeutic protocol representing an alternative to the classical delayed surgical protocol of implant placement. This protocol, however, has not been fully validated, either in terms of fully understanding the influence of implant placement on the socket‐healing process or on the clinical outcomes. This narrative review evaluates the different experimental studies in humans and animals assessing the bone‐healing dynamics of the socket after tooth extraction and the dimensional changes occurring at the socket bone walls. These experimental studies describe, in detail, the hard‐ and soft‐tissue healing of implants placed into fresh extraction sockets, demonstrating that marked morphological changes of the alveolar ridge will occur, independently of the implant installation, thus demonstrating that postextraction bone loss is an inevitable biological process. This evidence has also been corroborated in clinical studies in humans, demonstrating the risk of significant peri‐implant tissue loss, mainly in the areas of high esthetic demand. There is a lack of long‐term evidence on the impact of this protocol on the preservation of the peri‐implant tissues. In conclusion, despite the obvious advantages of this surgical protocol, it also has limitations and is more technically demanding than placing an implant into a healed crest. When selecting this protocol, clinicians should always consider: (a) the gingival biotype of the patient; (b) the thickness and integrity of the socket bony walls; (c) the implant selection as well as the adequate vertical and horizontal position of the implant; and (d) the ideal patient (a nonsmoker with good plaque control).
The relationships among dyspnoea, health‐related quality of life and psychological factors in sarcoidosis
Authors: de Boer Sally , Kolbe John , Wilsher Margaret L.
Published: August 2014

Background and objectives

Dyspnoea is a common symptom in sarcoidosis and is not predictably related to pulmonary function or radiology. A subjective symptom of dyspnoea is likely to be influenced by patient perception and experience. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and nature of dyspnoea in sarcoidosis and describe the relationship of dyspnoea to psychological factors and health‐related quality of life (HRQL).

Methods

Fifty‐six subjects (31 men, mean age 51 years) with sarcoidosis completed an HRQL measure, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Nijmegen questionnaire. The presence of symptoms of dyspnoea was noted and qualitative descriptors for dyspnoea were chosen at peak exercise. Resting pulmonary function was performed.

Results

Sixty‐four per cent of the subjects reported dyspnoea. Those with symptoms were older, had a longer duration of disease and with lower forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) (all P < 0.05). Symptoms of dyspnoea were associated with worse HRQL (P < 0.005) and higher scores on the Nijmegen questionnaire (P < 0.05). Anxiety was not associated with dyspnoea and only a trend to greater depression was observed (P = 0.066). In multivariate analysis, SGRQ and Nijmegen scores predicted dyspnoea independent of demographic factors and resting pulmonary function.

Conclusion

Dyspnoea is common in sarcoidosis and is associated with worse HRQL irrespective of baseline pulmonary function. Hyperventilation appears to be a factor contributing to dyspnoea and the Nijmegen questionnaire may be helpful in assessing dyspnoea and hyperventilation in sarcoidosis patients.
Intratracheal co‐administration of antioxidants and ceftriaxone reduces pulmonary injury and mortality rate in an experimental model of sepsis
Authors: Galvão Andre M. , Wanderley Marcela S.O. , Silva Roberto A. , Filho Carlos A.M. , Melo‐Junior Mário R. , Silva Luciano A. , Streck Emílio L. , Dornelas de Andrade Armele F. , Souza Maia Maria B. , Barbosa de Castro Celia M.M.
Published: August 2014

Background and objective

Recent studies showed that both sepsis and antibiotic therapy are associated with cell death and linked to reactive oxygen species generation. This study investigated the effects of intratracheal administration of combinations of antioxidants (n‐acetyl cysteine (NAC), vitamins C and E) in the treatment of sepsis‐induced lung injury.

Methods

Ninety‐six male Wistar rats subjected to sepsis were treated with ceftriaxone plus NAC with or without vitamins C and E and compared to appropriate controls. As an index of oxidative damage protein carbonyls, sulfhydryl groups, lipid peroxidation and superoxide anion were measured, as well as superoxide dismutase and catalase. Histopathological alterations and mortality rate were also analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐four hours after sepsis induction, markers of oxidative stress increased in all lungs examined. Ceftriaxone plus intratracheal combination of NAC, vitamins C and E decreased lung injury in infected animals by reducing superoxide anion production (54%), lipid peroxidation (53%) and protein carbonyl (58%) and restored the redox status (7.5 times). This therapy also reduced the imbalance of antioxidant enzymes activities and attenuated the alveolar architectural disorganization, inflammatory cell infiltration and pulmonary oedema. Survival increased from 66.6% with ceftriaxone to 83.2% with ceftriaxone plus antioxidants.

Conclusions

Ceftriaxone plus intratracheal co‐administration of antioxidants provides better protection, by decreasing pulmonary oxidative stress, limiting histophatological alterations and improving survival. Antioxidants should be explored as a co‐adjuvant in the treatment of severe lung injury.
The Border Effect and the Nonlinear Relationship between Trade and Distance
Authors: Gallego Nuria , Llano Carlos
Published: August 2014

The border‐effect literature confirms that sub‐national units tend to trade more with the rest of their country than with foreign markets. However, it is likely that ongoing processes of trade integration will generate a trade‐off between internal and external integration for sub‐national units within countries. In this paper we estimate the internal and external border effect, using a novel dataset that captures intra‐ and international shipments between Spanish regions and regions in eight European countries with alternative treatments of the nonlinear relationship between distance and trade.
Noninvasive continuous positive airway pressure delivered using a pediatric helmet in dogs recovering from general anesthesia
Authors: Staffieri Francesco , Crovace Antonio , De Monte Valentina , Centonze Paola , Gigante Giulio , Grasso Salvatore
Published: August 2014

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of noninvasive continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) administered with a pediatric helmet in healthy dogs recovering from general anesthesia.

Design

Randomized, cross‐over, clinical study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Fifteen healthy female, client‐owned dogs recovering from general anesthesia following elective ovariohysterectomy.

Interventions

All dogs received the same standardized anesthetic protocol (acepromazine, morphine, propofol, and isoflurane in oxygen). After extubation, a pediatric helmet was placed on all dogs and connected to a venturi valve supplied with medical air. In all patients, the gas flow was set to 50 L/minute and the FiO2 to 0.21. Dogs received the following sequence of treatments, each lasting 20 minutes: 0 CPAP (pre‐CPAP), CPAP of 5 cm H2O (CPAP), and again 0 CPAP (post‐CPAP).

Measurements and Main Results

During the entire study, the following data were collected: pressure and FiO2 inside the helmet, mean arterial pressure, respiratory rate, heart rate, sedation score (0 = awake, 10 = deep sedation), and tolerance to the helmet (0 = excellent, 4 = poor). At the end of each phase, an arterial blood sample was sampled. As compared with the pre‐CPAP and the post‐CPAP periods, during the CPAP period, the PaCO2, alveolar‐arterial oxygen gradient (P[A−a]O2), and respiratory rate significantly decreased. The PaO2 was higher at CPAP (105.6 ± 4.0 mm Hg) compared with pre‐CPAP (80.6 ± 6.9 mm Hg) and post‐CPAP (86.7 ± 5.8 mm Hg). Tolerance and sedation scores during the CPAP period were not different from those in the pre‐CPAP and post‐CPAP periods.

Conclusions

Noninvasive CPAP applied through a helmet is a feasible and effective supportive technique in dogs recovering from general anesthesia.