bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective synaptic targeting of the excitatory and inhibitory presynaptic organizers, FGF22 and FGF7
Authors: Terauchi Akiko , Timmons Kendall M. , Kikuma Koto , Pechmann Yvonne , Kneussel Matthias , Umemori Hisashi
Published: November 2014

Specific formation of excitatory and inhibitory synapses is critical for proper functioning of the brain. Fibroblast growth factor 22 (FGF22) and FGF7 are postsynaptic cell-derived presynaptic organizers necessary for excitatory or inhibitory presynaptic differentiation, respectively, in the hippocampus. For the establishment of specific synaptic networks, these FGFs must localize to appropriate synaptic locations: FGF22 to excitatory and FGF7 to inhibitory postsynaptic sites. Here we show that distinct motor and adaptor proteins contribute to intracellular microtubule transport of FGF22 and FGF7. Excitatory synaptic targeting of FGF22 requires the motor proteins KIF3A and KIF17 and the adaptor protein SAP102. In contrast, inhibitory synaptic targeting of FGF7 requires the motor KIF5 and the adaptor gephyrin. Time-lapse imaging shows that FGF22 moves with SAP102, while FGF7 with gephyrin. These results reveal the basis of selective targeting of the excitatory and inhibitory presynaptic organizers that supports their differential synaptogenic functions. Finally, we found that SAP102- or PSD95-knockdown, which decreases excitatory synapses, alters FGF7 localization, suggesting that signals from excitatory synapses may regulate inhibitory synapse formation by controlling the distribution of the inhibitory presynaptic organizer.
Synthesis of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Carbon Nanoparticles from Benzene/Water Bilayer Solution with Femtosecond Laser Generated Plasma Filaments in Water
Authors: Hamaguchi Tomoyuki , Okamoto Takuya , Mitamura Koji , Matsukawa Kimihiro , Yatsuhashi Tomoyuki
Published: November 2014

We synthesized hydrophilic and hydrophobic carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) by femtosecond laser (0.8 µm, 40 fs) irradiation of the water layer of an aerated benzene/water (B/W) bilayer solution. Focusing intense femtosecond laser pulses onto water creates a high density of reactive species such as hydroxyl radicals in a well-confined volume; i.e., plasma filament. The properties of the particle surface were controlled simply by adjusting the laser focusing position, the duration between the preparation of B/W bilayer solution and the laser irradiation. The hydrophobic CNPs appeared to be nearly identical in size and morphology to hydrophilic CNPs. Raman spectroscopy revealed that both particles had a graphitic and disordered structure; however, IR spectroscopy clearly showed that the hydroxy group is the origin of the hydrophilicity. The time evolution of particle formation, products in water, and benzene dissolution behavior in water reveals that the surface properties are determined by the concentration of benzene in water. The diluted aqueous benzene solution gave hydrophilic particles; however, the density of particles was much smaller than that formed in B/W bilayer solution. We concluded that the production of denser hydrophilic CNPs in B/W bilayer was achieved by limiting the concentration of benzene in water layer by B/W interface, and by continuously supplying benzene into water layer through B/W interface. We discuss the subsequent reaction mechanism leading to CNPs of different surface characters.
Synthesis of Monodisperse Au Nanoparticles Using Co Nanoparticles as a Sacrificial Template
Authors: Kang Jianmiao , Ding Yinqiao , Liu Bin , Yang Jianhui
Published: November 2014

In this letter, we demonstrate the facile synthesis of monodisperse gold nanoparticles by aging an oleylamine–H[AuCl4] toluene solution in the presence of cobalt nanoparticles as a sacrificial template. The precursor of Au is a key factor for the formation of Au nanoparticles. The ratio between Co nanoparticles and H[AuCl4] also affects the morphology and monodispersity of nanoparticles.
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study of ligand photodissociation and migration in inducible nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Horn Michael , Nienhaus Karin , Nienhaus Gerd Ulrich
Published: November 2014

Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is a homodimeric heme enzyme that catalyzes the formation of nitric oxide (NO) from dioxygen and L-arginine (L-Arg) in a two-step process. The produced NO can either diffuse out of the heme pocket into the surroundings or it can rebind to the heme iron and inhibit enzyme action. Here we have employed Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) photolysis difference spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures, using the carbon monoxide (CO) and NO stretching bands as local probes of the active site of iNOS. Characteristic changes were observed in the spectra of the heme-bound ligands upon binding of the cofactors. Unlike photolyzed CO, which becomes trapped in well-defined orientations, as indicated by sharp photoproduct bands, photoproduct bands of NO photodissociated from the ferric heme iron were not visible, indicating that NO does not reside in the protein interior in a well-defined location or orientation. This may be favorable for NO release from the enzyme during catalysis because it reduces self-inhibition. Moreover, we used temperature derivative spectroscopy (TDS) with FTIR monitoring to explore the dynamics of NO and carbon monoxide (CO) inside iNOS after photodissociation at cryogenic temperatures. Only a single kinetic photoproduct state was revealed, but no secondary docking sites as in hemoglobins. Interestingly, we observed that intense illumination of six-coordinate ferrous iNOSoxy-NO ruptures the bond between the heme iron and the proximal thiolate to yield five-coordinate ferric iNOSoxy-NO, demonstrating the strong trans effect of the heme-bound NO.
Shaping the Future of Research: a perspective from junior scientists
Authors: McDowell Gary S. , Gunsalus Kearney T. W. , MacKellar Drew C. , Mazzilli Sarah A. , Pai Vaibhav P. , Goodwin Patricia R. , Walsh Erica M. , Robinson-Mosher Avi , Bowman Thomas A. , Kraemer James , Erb Marcella L. , Schoenfeld Eldi , Shokri Leila , Jackson Jonathan D. , Islam Ayesha , Mattozzi Matthew D. , Krukenberg Kristin A. , Polka Jessica K.
Published: November 2014

The landscape of scientific research and funding is in flux and affected by tight budgets, evolving models of both publishing and evaluation, and questions about training and workforce stability. As future leaders, junior scientists are uniquely poised to shape the culture and practice of science in response to these challenges. A group of postdocs in the Boston area who are invested in improving the scientific endeavor, planned a symposium held on October 2nd and 3rd, 2014, as a way to join the discussion about the future of US biomedical research. Here we present a report of the proceedings of participant-driven workshops and the organizers’ synthesis of the outcomes.
Getting ready for pupil premium
Authors: Robb Sue
Published: November 2014

The achievement gap between the most and least disadvantaged children when they start school can be as much as 19 months, but now new funding is available to help settings to reduce these inequalities.
Digitally supporting language
Authors: Peden Zoe
Published: November 2014

Instead of taking children away from quality interactions, carefully designed digital technologies can help practitioners and parents to achieve measurable impacts on children's language development.
Real-life superheroes
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: November 2014

In the last article in our look at the role and influence superheroes play in our early years settings, we examine the ‘powers’ of real-life heroes, such as the men and women of the police and fire service.
Fairytales last forever
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: November 2014

Traditional stories never go out of fashion because they are loved by children and adults alike, but these tales are always changing and evolving with each re-telling, which is why they are so good to explore.
Older people and skin: challenging perceptions of the ageing process
Authors: Cowdell Fiona , Garrett Dawne
Published: November 2014

In this article, the authors will set out to challenge perceptions about older people and skin. The article will examine portrayals of older people and skin, both in the media and nursing literature, and describe the ‘normal’ process of skin ageing and highlight the importance of maintaining skin integrity and effective barrier function for health and wellbeing, particularly in older people. One element of maintaining skin integrity is ensuring that personal hygiene and emollient needs are met. Effective skin hygiene and emollient care will reduce the risk of breakdown, with all its burdensome and costly consequences. The authors will offer a summary of the available evidence base for skin hygiene practices. They will also make a case for nurses considering skin health from a wider societal and human perspective, and identify opportunities to enhance nursing practice through skincare advice and health education for all older people.
German aesthetics: pushing for high quantity, and quality
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: November 2014

With both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures on the rise worldwide, aesthetic nursing is becoming an increasingly popular profession. In this new series, Aysha Mendes examines aesthetic nursing practices and cultural perceptions of beauty across the globe by focusing on a different country every month. This issue highlights the high standards of medical aesthetics in Germany
The influence of advertising on patient consent and expectations
Authors: Luckman Mandy
Published: November 2014

Advertising and marketing is a key aspect of the aesthetic industry. However, there have been concerns raised regarding inappropriate marketing tactics. Among other considerations, the influence of advertising and marketing can be taken into account by lawyers in any litigation relating to an unwanted outcome. As a solicitor in the field, Mandy Luckman highlights the importance of a responsible approach
Hedonic adaptation: applying principles of business to the practice of aesthetics
Authors: Senior Yvonne
Published: November 2014

In the field of aesthetics. nurses have to consider business management as well as administering treatments and carrying out patient consultations. The theory of hedonic adaptation is a complex concept that can be applied to this multifaceted industry. Yvonne Senior discusses how practitioners can use principles of economics to better the services and patient care they provided
Renew, revise and revamp: preparing your aesthetic clinic for a new year of business
Authors: Deakin Barbara
Published: November 2014

After the excesses of the festive period, many patients look to the new year as a time to make their resolutions and rejuvenate and refresh their look. In her regular practice management column, Barbara Deakin offers aesthetic practitioners a variety of top tips on how to prepare their clinics for the year ahead, ensuring new clients and sales are just around the corner
ADHD and the new Code
Authors: Lloyd Tony
Published: November 2014

The new SEN Code of Practice has wide-ranging implications, but what does it mean for children with ADHD? Dr Tony Lloyd explains
Protocol for the Femoroacetabular Impingement Trial (FAIT)
Authors: Palmer A. J. R. , Ayyar-Gupta V. , Dutton S. J. , Rombach I. , Cooper C. D. , Pollard T. C. , Hollinghurst D. , Taylor A. , Barker K. L. , McNally E. G. , Beard D. J. , Andrade A. J. , Carr A. J. , Glyn-Jones S.
Published: November 2014

Aims

Femoroacetabular Junction Impingement (FAI) describes abnormalities in the shape of the femoral head–neck junction, or abnormalities in the orientation of the acetabulum. In the short term, FAI can give rise to pain and disability, and in the long-term it significantly increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis. The Femoroacetabular Impingement Trial (FAIT) aims to determine whether operative or non-operative intervention is more effective at improving symptoms and preventing the development and progression of osteoarthritis.

Methods

FAIT is a multicentre superiority parallel two-arm randomised controlled trial comparing physiotherapy and activity modification with arthroscopic surgery for the treatment of symptomatic FAI. Patients aged 18 to 60 with clinical and radiological evidence of FAI are eligible. Principal exclusion criteria include previous surgery to the index hip, established osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence ≥ 2), hip dysplasia (centre-edge angle < 20°), and completion of a physiotherapy programme targeting FAI within the previous 12 months. Recruitment will take place over 24 months and 120 patients will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio and followed up for three years. The two primary outcome measures are change in hip outcome score eight months post-randomisation (approximately six-months post-intervention initiation) and change in radiographic minimum joint space width 38 months post-randomisation. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01893034. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:321–7.
The COMET Sleep Research Platform
Authors: Nichols Deborah A. , DeSalvo Steven , Miller Ric , Jonsson Darrell , Griffin Kara S. , Hyde Pamela R. , Walsh James K. , Kushida Clete A.
Published: November 2014

Introduction: The Comparative Outcomes Management with Electronic Data Technology
(COMET) platform is extensible and designed for facilitating multicenter electronic
clinical research.Background: Our research goals were the following: (1) to conduct a
comparative effectiveness trial (CET) for two obstructive sleep apnea
treatments—positive airway pressure versus oral appliance therapy; and (2) to establish
a new electronic network infrastructure that would support this study and other clinical
research studies.Discussion: The COMET platform was created to satisfy the needs of CET
with a focus on creating a platform that provides comprehensive toolsets, multisite
collaboration, and end-to-end data management. The platform also provides medical
researchers the ability to visualize and interpret data using business intelligence (BI)
tools.Conclusion: COMET is a research platform that is scalable and extensible, and
which, in a future version, can accommodate big data sets and enable efficient and
effective research across multiple studies and medical specialties. The COMET platform
components were designed for an eventual move to a cloud computing infrastructure that
enhances sustainability, overall cost effectiveness, and return on investment.
Geração e Uso de Etanol Combustível: oportunidades e limites da tecnologia flex fuel
Authors: Vazzolér Luiz Fernando Rigacci , Bonacelli Maria Beatriz Machado
Published: November 2014

Este artigo explora o projeto da tecnologia flex-fuel, resgatando a história do pioneirismo das pesquisas e do uso do etanol como combustível desde os anos 1930, passando pelo Pró-álcool nos anos 1970 e chegando ao motor flex-fuel nos anos 2000. Destaca a instalação da indústria automobilística nacional e o próprio projeto e desenvolvimento do motor de combustão interna no século XIX, utilizando os conceitos de trajetórias tecnológicas e coevolução técnica e institucional. Mesmo com o conhecimento e a experiência na geração e uso de combustível alternativo e, recentemente, em tecnologias alternativas para motores, discute-se se o Brasil está perdendo uma oportunidade para alçar o etanol e a tecnologia do motor flex-fuel como opções às trajetórias tecnológicas vigentes.
A cadeia produtiva têxtil mundial: uma abordagem a partir do conceito de cadeiras produtivas globais
Authors: Dias Marcos de Carvalho
Published: November 2014

As transformações recentes pelas quais tem passado a indústria têxtil mundial resultaram em modificações na configuração e forma de relacionamento entre os componentes da cadeia produtiva têxtil mundial. Essas transformações são derivadas da inserção de novos atores no comércio mundial de têxteis, principalmente as empresas provenientes de países periféricos, que passaram a competir na comercialização mundial com produtos mais baratos, provocando a reação dos produtores dos países europeus e dos Estados Unidos, que passaram a integrar os diversos componentes da cadeia produtiva em vários países, resultando em uma cadeia produtiva global. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é analisar as transformações ocorridas na cadeia têxtil mundial a partir de uma abordagem teórica à cadeia produtiva global, ou global commodity chain, por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica e análise de dados sobre a cadeia têxtil mundial.
Os sentidos do trabalho para os policiais militares do estado da Bahia: uma primeira análise
Authors: Benevides Tânia Moura , De Almeida Denise Ribeiro , Cunha Eduardo Almeida , Mendes Jaime Fabiano
Published: November 2014

Este artigo visa a evidenciar a percepção dos policiais militares do Estado da Bahia em relação aos sentidos do trabalho. Partiu-se, nesta primeira análise, dos resultados de um pré-teste realizado com os policiais de um Comando de Policiamento Especial. O trabalho se baseou, na análise bibliográfica, em Antunes (2007), no livro intitulado Os sentidos do trabalho, fazendo parte de uma pesquisa maior que busca identificar os sentidos do trabalho para distintas categorias de trabalhadores; neste artigo, o foco são os policiais. Os resultados desse levantamento preliminar revelam que as categorias utilizadas por Antunes (2007) necessitam de adaptação para abordar esses trabalhadores, porque outros sentidos são apontados pelos policiais nos questionamentos subsequentes. Constatou-se que os valores institucionais influenciam os sentidos indicados por eles. Há, reconhecidamente, orgulho pelo exercício da atividade laboral, entretanto, a desvalorização da atividade é fortemente considerada um sentido negativo.
Germination differences between natural and afforested populations of Pinus brutia and Cupressus sempervirens
Authors: Al-Hawija Batoul , Wagner Viktoria , Partzsch Monika , Hensen Isabell
Published: November 2014

In afforestation, silvicultural processes of raising and planting seedlings under certain conditions can yield contrasting outcomes in tree stock performance. Moderate nursery conditions may select against stress tolerance whereas planting seedlings in stressful environments at afforestation sites may select for higher stress tolerance compared to natural populations. We compared germination performance between natural and afforested populations of Ten. subsp. and L. var. (Mill.) under differing stress treatments. Seeds were collected from both natural stands and from afforested populations outside the natural distribution range, in Syria. Cold, intermediate and hot temperature regimes were simulated (8/4 Â°C, 20/10 Â°C and 32/20 Â°C) along with cold stratification, drought stress (â0.2 and â0.4 MPa), salt stress (50 and 100 mMol l), and deionized water (control) conditions. In addition, we tested the effects of seed weight and climatic conditions on seed germination. In general, intermediate temperatures were optimal for both population types. Afforested populations outperformed natural ones under drought stress levels at hot and/or intermediate temperatures. Conversely, in , cold stratification at all temperatures and higher salt stress at intermediate temperatures significantly decreased germination in afforested populations. Seed weight did not significantly affect germination percentages, which were however significantly negatively related to annual precipitation in , and to annual temperature in . We infer that silvicultural processes led to divergent outcomes in our species: local adaptation to drought stress and hot temperatures in afforested populations and lower salt-stress tolerance in .Pinus brutiabrutiaCupressus sempervirenshorizontalisâ1P. brutiaC. sempervirensP. brutiaC. sempervirensP. brutiaC. sempervirens
The Role of Taste in Cephalic Phase of Insulin Secretion
Authors: Dušková M. , Macourek M. , Šrámková M. , Hill M. , Stárka Luboslav
Published: November 2014

The effect of a short gustatory signal of a sweet solution was tested on 15 young male volunteers. The experiment consisted of mouth rinsing with either a sucrose or aspartate solution or pure water as a placebo. Blood was then taken in short intervals of 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 min. Blood glucose, C-peptide, insulin and cortisol were determined. While C-peptide and glucose were unaffected, a short-term increase in insulin was observed after the sucrose, but not after the aspartate or placebo. The increase in insulin was significant, though it amounted to only 0.5 mIU/l and lasted approx. 15 min reaching then the starting value. The decline of cortisol level within 20 min of the experiment was approx. 40 nmol/l, although it was also observed after aspartate or placebo mouth rinsing and was probably caused by stress factors or anticipation. In conclusion, the contribution of taste to the cephalic phase of insulin secretion is small yet significant, and mouth rinsing with 5% sucrose causes an insulin increase of just under 1 IU/l, which returns to starting level within 15 min.
Evaluation of Tp-e Interval and Tp-e/QT Ratio in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Demir C. , Demir Mehmet
Published: November 2014

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a chronic inflammatory viral disorder. Several studies have suggested that the interval from the peak to the end of the electrocardiographic T wave (Tp-e) may correspond to the transmural dispersion of repolarisation and that increased Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio are associated with malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Impaired autonomic function has been described in patients with CHB. The aim of this study was to evaluate ventricular repolarisation by using Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio in patients with CHB, and to assess the relation with inflammation. Fifty-five patients with CHB and 50 controls were included. Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio were measured from the 12-lead electrocardiogram, and Tp-e interval corrected for heart rate. These parameters were compared between groups. In electrocardiographic parameters analysis, QT dispersion (QTd) and corrected QTd were significantly increased in CHB patients compared to the controls (38.3 ± 10.9 vs. 28.5 ± 7.3 mi- lliseconds and 39.5 ± 11.2 vs. 29.6 ± 7.6 milliseconds, P=0.01 and P<0.001, respectively). cTp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio were also significantly higher in CHB patients (85.3 ± 8.2 vs. 74.5 ± 7.4 milliseconds and 0.24 ± 0.02 vs. 0.18 ± 0.02, all P-value < 0.001). Our study revealed that Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio were increased in CHB patients.
The Relationship between Vitamin D Deficiency and Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Demir Mehmet , Uyan U. , Keçeoçlu S. , Demir C.
Published: November 2014

Vitamin D deficiency actives renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) which affects cardiovascular system. Activation of RAAS is associated with pulmonary hypertension (PHT). Relation between vitamin D deficiency and PHT could be therefore suggested. In  our study we compared pulmonary artery pressure between vitamin D deficiency and control groups. 115 consecutive patients (average age: 61.86 ± 5.86) who have detected very low vitamin D (vitamin D levels < 10 ng/ml) were enrolled. 117 age matched persons (average age: 61.74 ± 5.99) were selected as the control group. All groups underwent transthoracic echocardiography. Routine biochemical measurement of 25-OH vitamin D and parathormon (PTH) levels were performed. Baseline characteristics of the study groups were comparable. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP) of patients in  the low vitamin D group was higher than the control groups. As a  result our study, a  relation between vitamin D deficiency and pulmonary artery hypertension was revealed.
25-hydroxyvitamin D3 Concentration in Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Remitting-relapse Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Moghtaderi Ali , Tamadon G. H. , Haghighi F.
Published: November 2014

There is epidemiological, geographical and immunological evidence suggesting that low environmental supplies of vitamin D3 may act as a  risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis (MS), possibly due to dysfunction in  the immunomodulatory properties of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OH-D3) in  the brain. The objective of this study is to measure the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of 25-OH-D3 in  MS patients during their relapsing phase. 52 patients with remitting-relapse and 58 patients with other non-inflammatory diseases of central and peripheral nervous system were entered into the study. Patients in  both groups were admitted for the first time to do diagnostic procedures and they were not on any other treatment for neurological disorders. The means and medians for serum levels of 25-OH-D3 in  MS patients and control group were 10.64 ± 9.2 ng/ml (median: 9.6 ng/ml) and 13.23 ± 17.56 ng/ml (median: 11.90 ng/ml), respectively (p=0.328). CSF concentrations for the same values were 2.02 ± 1.94 ng/ml (median: 0.23 ng/ml) and 3.28 ± 2.96 (median: 0.29 ng/ml), respectively (p=0.242). The differences between calculated numbers of serum/CSF ratios were not statistically significant too. The serum and CSF concentrations of 25-OH-D3 in  MS group were lower than the control counterpart without any statistical difference and the authors did not find any influence of serum 25-OH-D3 concentration on the CSF concentration based on the non-significant statistical difference between the serum/CSF ratios in  two study groups of MS patients and control cases.
Fournier’s Gangrene in a Patient with Obesity and B-lymphoma
Authors: Komninos Christos , Karavitakis M. , Koritsiadis S.
Published: November 2014

We present a  case of Fournier’s gangrene disease in  a young obese patient with coexistent B-lymphoma. It remains controversial if obesity constitutes a  predisposing factor for an individual to develop necrotizing fasciitis. On the other hand, only few cases of patients with coexistence of B-lymphoma and Fournier’s gangrene disease have been reported.  A 30-years-old obese man was admitted to emergency department with fever (38.7 °C), pain, erythema and swelling extended from the left scrotum to the left lower abdominal quadrant. He was confused, with low urinary excretion and septic shock’s signs. The clinical findings were characteristics of Fournier’s gangrene disease. Furthermore during physical examination a  massive, painless and motionless mass in  the left breast was revealed. The patient required urgent surgical debridement of the affected area and pus drainage. Biopsies of the breast mass were received by excision. Pus and blood cultures yielded Staphylococci coagulase(–), Klebsiella and Proteus sp. Intravenous antibiotic treatment with Meropeneme and Clindamycine started immediately. Repeated debridement was often performed. Pathology examination of the massive tissue revealed a  diffuse B-lymphoma of large cells (Germinal center B-cell like-GCB). The patient was discharged from the hospital 35 days later.  Afterwards, he was treated with chemotherapeutic agents for malignant lymphoma at the oncological department. The aim of this case’s presentation is to mention that young obese patients with Fournier’s gangrene disease should be particularly investigated due to the possible occurrence of another not obvious predisposing factor, such as a  malignant disease.
Peri-operative Chemotherapy in Patients with Oesophageal and Gastro-oesophageal Junction Cancer – Three Years of Experience
Authors: Pechačová Z. , Zemanová Milada , Haruštiak T. , Vítek P. , Fencl P.
Published: November 2014

Peri-operative chemotherapy has been found to benefit patients with oesophageal and gastro-oesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. This study’s aim was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of this treatment. The study included patients with carcinoma of the lower oesophagus and gastro-oesophageal junction in whom the disease was evaluated as potentially operable. Chemotherapy (CHT) consisted of three preoperative and three postoperative cycles of intravenous epirubicin and cisplatin on day 1 plus a continuous infusion of fluorouracil for 21 days (ECF) or oral capecitabine for 14 days (ECCap). Postoperative radio-chemotherapy (CRT) with fluorouracil or capecitabine after CHT was indicated in patients with two and more positive lymph nodes. Sixty-three patients started the treatment. Median follow-up was 32 months. Preoperative CHT was completed by 62 patients, 52 had surgery, 46 had radical resection, 25 patients had pN0 and 21 patient pN plus findings. Postoperative CHT was started in 39 (62%) patients and completed in 32 (51%). Ten (16%) patients had postoperative CRT. Adverse events of grade 3 and 4 were: neutropenia 17%, vomiting 8%, fatigue 5%, diarrhoea 3%. Reasons for omitting surgery in 11 (17%) patients were: progression in 7 patients, medically unfit in 3 patients, other in 1 patient. In the reporting period there were recurrences in 39 of all patients, in 7 locoregional only, in 10 distant plus locoregional, and in 19 distant metastases. Median survival was 24.1 months and 3-year survival rate was 42%. Peri-operative chemotherapy ECF/ECCap was feasible and well tolerated. Radical resection was performed in most patients.
Autonomic Nervous System under Ketamine/xylazine and Pentobarbital Anaesthesia in a Wistar Rat Model: A Chronobiological View
Authors: Švorc Pavol , Bačová I. , Švorc P. , Bužga M.
Published: November 2014

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of ketamine/xylazine and pentobarbital anaesthesia on heart rate variability as a marker of autonomic nervous system activity. The experiments were performed in ketamine/xylazine (10 mg/kg/15 mg/kg) and pentobarbital (40 mg/kg, i.p.) anaesthetized female Wistar rats, after adaptation to a light-dark cycle of 12 hours light: 12 hours dark. Heart rate variability parameters (RR interval, power  VLF (very low frequency), power LF (low frequency), power HF (high frequency) and relative powers) were evaluated during spontaneous breathing as a function of the light-dark cycle (LD cycle). Significant LD differences were found in the duration of RR intervals in ketamine/xylazine compared with pentobarbital-anaesthetized rats. Correlation analysis revealed moderate dependency between the RR interval duration and HF and LF power parameters in ketamine/xylazine anaesthesia in both light and dark parts of the cycle. In pentobarbital-anaesthetized rats, correlation analysis demonstrated a moderate dependence between RR interval duration and HF and  VLF power parameters, but only in the dark part of the LD cycle. Ketamine/xylazine anaesthesia increased parasympathetic activity, and suppressed sympathetic and baroreceptor activity independently of the light-dark cycle. LD differences in RR interval duration were not eliminated. Pentobarbital anaesthesia increased parasympathetic activity, decreased sympathetic and baroreceptor activity, and eliminated LD differences in RR interval duration.
Giant Post-traumatic Cyst after Motorcycle Injury: A Case Report with Review of the Pathogenesis
Authors: Yilmaz A. , Yener Oktay
Published: November 2014

Post-traumatic cysts of soft tissue usually occur at the junction of the subcutaneous fat and deep fascia, most often filled with serosanguinous fluid and lined with fibrous tissue. It appears as complication after severe injuries when crushing and shearing forces cause separation of the skin and subcutaneous fat from the deep fascia and muscle, creating a cavity filled with hematoma and liquefied fat. This rare condition calls Morel-Lavallee lesion, which was first described by this French physician in 1853 (Sterling et al., 1977; Tull and Borrelli, 2003). Magnetic resonance imaging is the modality of choice for detection and revealing the exact size and location of these lesions. The best method of treatment is surgical excision with complete resection.
Postinfarction Ventricular Septal Rupture – A Rare Complication Remains Challenge for Cardiac Surgical Team
Authors: Rohn Vilém , Grus T. , Lindner J. , Lipš M. , Bělohlávek J.
Published: November 2014

The incidence of post infarction ventricular septal rupture (PIVSR) is decreasing in the last years due to aggressive treatment of myocardial infarction with early percutaneous coronary interventions. As a consequence patients with PIVSR are referred to surgery more often with significant heart failure. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the influence of these on the operative results and to identify the risk factors of operative mortality. A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of patients with the PIVSR admitted to our center from November 2004 to February 2012 was performed. Variables were analyzed using two-dimensional correspondence analysis. There were 25 patients (12 males and 13 females) with mean age 70.2 years (47–82) operated on; 17 (68%) presented with anterior and 8 (32%) with posterior PIVSR. Eighteen patients (72%) had acute heart failure, 13 (52%) presented with cardiogenic shock. Before surgery, intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) had 20 (80%) patients; in 4 (16%) a ventricular assist device was used, either Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) or centrifugal pumps as biventricular assist. Operative mortality was 40% (10 pts.). Four patients (12%) had small non-significant recurrent shunt on postoperative echocardiography. Although majority of patients with PIVSR have significant heart failure prior to surgery the operative mortality remains comparable to older studies. Predictors of perioperative death were concomitant surgical reconstruction of the left ventricle, renal impairment before operation, male gender, history of coronary artery disease, PIVSR location posterior, and shock at surgery.
Pregnane Xenobiotic Receptors and Their Effect on Drug Elimination from the Organism
Authors: Šíma Martin , Netíková I. , Slanař O.
Published: November 2014

Nuclear receptors are intracellular proteins which, having been activated by their more or less specific ligands, regulate (usually increase) the transcription of target genes. They thus participate in a regulation of a number of physiologic functions. Some of them – especially pregnane xenobiotic receptors – serve primarily as protection of the organism from the xenobiotic intoxication. This is because many xenobiotics activate their function which consists in increasing the gene expression of enzymes involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics and detoxication drug transporters. Clarification of these mechanisms enabled the understanding of the substance of many drug-drug interactions observed in the clinical practice. Polymorphism of the nuclear receptors appears to be one of the causes of the interindividual variability in response to drug administration.
Changes in seagrass leaf reddening and morphology in response to emersion
Authors: Apichanangkool Pemika , Prathep Anchana
Published: November 2014

Intertidal seagrasses often cope with a complex combination of stresses during low tide, especially light, temperature, and desiccation, which influence seagrass survival mechanisms, consequently forming zonation patterns along the shore. To investigate whether seagrass pigment and leaf morphological characteristics change in response to emersion, we sampled three intertidal seagrass species (Halophila ovalis, Cymodocea rotundata, and Thalassia hemprichii) in Laem Yong Lam, Haad Chao Mai National Park, Trang, Thailand. Using transplantation methods across the upper and lower intertidal zones, where emersion times differ, we found that these three seagrass species have different adaptive strategies to grow under stresses in the intertidal zone. All three seagrass species responded to decreasing emersion times by decreasing leaf length and width. The leaf sheath of C. rotundata increased in length with decreasing emersion times. Our research provides a characterization of different seagrass strategies, which involve differential changes in leaf pigmentation and morphological adjustments to survive under stresses during emersion in the intertidal zone.
Extracts of macroalgae from the Brazilian coast inhibit bacterial quorum sensing
Authors: Batista Daniela , Carvalho Ana Polycarpa , Costa Rafaela , Coutinho Ricardo , Dobretsov Sergey
Published: November 2014

The ability of polar (1:1 water/methanol) and non-polar (dichloromethane) extracts of macroalgae from Arraial do Cabo, RJ, Brazil, to inhibit quorum sensing (QS) was investigated. Before extraction, half of the algae were treated with 30% ethanol to kill and remove surface-associated bacteria. Twenty of 22 polar extracts inhibited the QS of the acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) producer and reporter Chromobacterium violaceum CV017 with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 0.28 μg ml-1 (Ulva
fasciata) to 189 μg ml-1 (Codium sp.). The MIC of non-polar extracts varied from 69 μg ml-1 (Sargassum furcatum) to 2730 μg ml-1 (Peyssonnelia capensis). Usually, extracts from algae with associated bacteria had a higher bioactivity than ones without them. Among 11 algal species tested, 50% of extracts with associated bacteria were toxic to C. violaceum CV026. None of the extracts contained AHLs, which was shown using reporters C. violaceum CV026 and Agrobacterium tumefaciens NTL4 (pZLR4). Polar (11%) and non-polar extracts (2%) inhibited QS-dependent attachment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01 at tissue-level concentrations. Our data suggest that secondary metabolites from algae and their associated microbiota are an important source of QS inhibitors, which potentially can be used in future biotechnological applications.
Effect of Operating Parameters on Ethanol–Water Vacuum Separation in an Ethanol Dehydration Apparatus and Process Modeling with ANN
Authors: Karimi S. , Ghobadian B. , Najafi G. , Nikian A. , Mamat R.
Published: November 2014

Bioethanol has been found to be a suitable substitute for gasoline in internal combustion engines. It could be used either in an undiluted form or blended with gasoline. To blend the ethanol and gasoline, the water content of ethanol should reach 0.5% or less. In the present research work, 3A Zeolite was used as an absorbent with vacuum distillation. The effects of the operating parameters such as temperature, vacuum pressure and vapor flow rate on ethanol–water separation were investigated. Final ethanol concentration was obtained at the end of every run as well as the concentration of outlet ethanol. Both linear regression and ANN design were used to determine the best fit for two final parameters. The optimum condition was obtained at 0.4 bar vacuum pressure and 20 l/min ethanol–water vapor flow rate. ANN model is more qualified to the simulation of outspread data while the linear regression is not. L10L10 mode and L5T10 mode provide the best results for final concentration and total time, respectively. The Trainlm Algorithm like the previous research training algorithm is the best.
Opto-electrical Behavior of Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–Pb0.97La0.03(Zr,Ti)O3 Transparent Ceramics with Varying Defect Structure
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Maurya Deepam , Zhou Yuan , Metzman Jonathan , Heflin James R. , Bodnar Robert , Priya Shashank
Published: November 2014

We report correlation between the electro-mechanical, ferroelectric, optical and opto-electric behavior in Pb(Zn
Information flow control for workflow management systems
Authors: Bauereiß Thomas , Hutter Dieter
Published: November 2014

Workflow management plays an important role in analyzing and automating business processes.
Security requirements in workflow management systems are typically mapped to (role-based) access control configurations.
This paper focuses on information flow control, taking into account implicit information leaks.
The presented approach operates on a specification level in which no executable program is available yet.
We illustrate the modeling of a workflow management system as a composition of state-event systems, each representing one of the activities of the workflow. This facilitates distributed deployment and eases verification by splitting up the verification of the overall system into verification of the individual components. Confidentiality requirements are
modeled in terms of information flow predicates using the MAKS framework and verified following
existing decomposition methodologies, which are adapted for open systems with ongoing user
interaction.
We discuss the interaction with other security requirements, notably separation of duty.
Designing networks for challenging applications
Authors: Scheuermann Björn
Published: November 2014

Most networks in use today, most prominently the Internet, follow a design philosophy which aims to support a broad range of applications.
This comes to a limit when the combination of application and environment poses increasing challenges with respect to scarce resources (like bandwidth, latency or energy).
It also fails if the challenges stem from application requirements that are violated by core network protocols, like, for instance, anonymity requirements in a network using unique addresses.
This observation motivates an overarching perspective on the design of network
protocols in such cases, which takes the interplay between network and
application explicitly into consideration – a challenge which is tackled for several application areas in my research group.
The linear-hyper-branching spectrum of temporal logics
Authors: Finkbeiner Bernd , Rabe Markus N.
Published: November 2014

The family of temporal logics has recently
been extended with logics for the specification of hyperproperties,
such as noninterference or observational
determinism. Hyperproperties relate multiple computation paths of
a system by requiring that they satisfy a certain relationship, such as an
identical valuation of the low-security outputs. Unlike classic
temporal logics like LTL or CTL*, which refer to one computation path at a time, temporal logics for
hyperproperties like HyperLTL and HyperCTL* can express such
relationships by explicitly quantifying over multiple computation paths simultaneously.
In this paper, we study the extended spectrum of temporal logics by relating
the new logics to the linear-branching spectrum of process
equivalences.
Physiological characteristics of crab Portunus sanguinolentus egg mass extract from southeast coast of India
Authors: Bragadeeswaran Subramanian , Kumaran Nadarajah Sri , Pandimuthu Lakshmanan , Prabahar Rajagopal
Published: November 2014

Background: The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the physiological characteristics of crab egg mass (Portunus sanguinolentus) crude extract.

Methods: Assays were followed by standard methods.

Results: A maximum of 256 hemolytic units (HU) and a minimum of 128 HU were found in chicken and goat erythrocytes. In an antimicrobial assay, Salmonella paratyphi and Aspergillus niger showed most susceptibility (8.0 mm and 13.0 mm) against n-butanol extracts. In the tail flick method, 5.33±0.19* AR the maximum analgesic response was recorded 30 min after the administration of crude extract (150 mg kg–1). In the hot plate method, 5.13±0.13* AR maximum paw licking was recorded 15 min after the administration of crude extract (150 mg kg–1). In an anti-inflammatory assay, 0.31±0.23* anti-inflammatory response and inhibition of paw edema 39.22% were observed 1 h after the administration of crude extract (250 mg kg–1). Primary structural groups gained through Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) analysis peaks were observed and assigned as amide groups I (1517.81–1633.12 cm–1), II (1446.58–1517.81 cm–1) and III (1342.47–1406.85 cm–1).

Conclusions: The results indicate that crab egg masses have remarkable antimicrobial, hemolytic and cytotoxic activities.
What is, for Kant, a Law of Nature?
Authors: Watkins Eric
Published: November 2014

In this paper I explore Kant’s understanding of a law of nature. I begin by reviewing Kant’s explicit statements about what a law is in general before describing an important challenge to the very idea of a law of nature that emerges from the conjunction of the natural law tradition and laws of nature in the early modern period. I then articulate how Kant can respond to that challenge by noting how he can draw on a univocal concept of law involving necessity and legislation in articulating his accounts of laws of nature and the moral law. In this way, we not only come to a better appreciation of Kant’s views on the laws of nature, but also see more clearly some significant structural similarities between his theoretical and practical philosophies as a whole.
Prescribing laws to nature. Part I. Newton, the pre-Critical Kant, and three problems about the lawfulness of nature
Authors: Massimi Michela
Published: November 2014

This paper traces the early reflections of the pre-Critical Kant on laws of nature back to Newton’s governing conception of laws. Three problems with the Newtonian conception are identified. I argue that in the attempt to provide a solution to them, in 1763 Kant came to forge a novel governing conception of laws. Key to Kant’s novel view are the notions of ground and its determinations. The role of these two notions in delivering the nomological necessity, explanatory power, and unity of the laws of nature is discussed and analysed.
Modal Motivations for Noumenal Ignorance: Knowledge, Cognition, and Coherence
Authors: Chignell Andrew
Published: November 2014

My goal in this paper is to show that Kant’s prohibition on certain kinds of knowledge of things-in-themselves is motivated less by his anti-soporific encounter with Hume than by his new view of the distinction between “real” and “logical” modality, a view that developed out of his reflection on the rationalist tradition in which he was trained. In brief: at some point in the 1770’s, Kant came to hold that a necessary condition on knowing a proposition is that one be able to
A Solution for General Exchange Markets with Indivisible Goods when Indifferences are Allowed
Authors: Subiza Begoña , Peris Josep E.
Published: November 2014

It is well known that the core of an exchange market with indivisible
goods is always non empty, although it may contain Pareto inefficient
allocations. The strict core solves this shortcoming when
indifferences are not allowed, but when agents' preferences are weak
orders the strict core may be empty. On the other hand, when
indifferences are allowed, the core or the strict core may fail to be
stable sets, in the von Neumann and Morgenstern sense.

We introduce a new solution concept that improves the behaviour of the
strict core, in the sense that it solves the emptiness problem of the
strict core when indifferences are allowed in the individuals'
preferences and whenever the strict core is non-empty, our solution is
included in it. We define our proposal, the MS-set, by using
a stability property (m-stability) that the strict core
fulfills. Finally, we provide a min-max interpretation for this new
solution.