bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of the UWB Feed Antenna Position in Reflector Applications
Authors: Türker Tokan Nurhan
Published: March 2014

In reflector system design, achieving high stability of phase center position with changes in frequency in reflector feed antennas is highly desired. However, obtaining highly stable phase center is not possible for UWB feed antennas, specially for planar ones. Thus, an optimum positioning for the UWB feed antenna should be defined. Optimization of the positioning of the feed antenna is essential since this process lowers resulting phase error losses significantly. In this work, a novel method for optimizing the UWB feed position of a prime focus reflector antenna from phase and amplitude recordings of the measured radiated field is introduced. An automatic and fast design procedure, based on Genetic Algorithms, is described. The proposed methodology has been numerically and experimentally assessed. The procedure is introduced by an application example to one of the most commonly used UWB feed antennas in high-performance reflector antenna systems: Linear Tapered Slot Antenna (LTSA). A LTSA antenna operating in 6–25 GHz frequency band is designed and manufactured. The performance of the method is quantified in terms of its phase error losses inE- andH-planes for reflector illumination.
Damage Identification by the Kullback-Leibler Divergence and Hybrid Damage Index
Authors: Tian Shaohua , Yang Zhibo , He Zhengjia , Chen Xuefeng
Published: March 2014

The hybrid damage index (HDI) is presented as a mean for the damage identification in this paper, which is on the basis of the Kullback-Leibler divergence (KLD) and its approximations. The proposed method is suitable for detecting damage in one-dimensional structure and delamination in laminated composite. The first step of analysis includes obtaining the mode data of the structure before and after the damage, and then the KLD and its approximations are obtained. In addition, the HDI is obtained on the basis of the KLD and its approximations, utilizing the natural frequencies and mode shape at the same time. Furthermore, the modal strain energy (MSE) method is employed to verify the efficiency of the proposed method. Finally, to demonstrate the capability of the proposed method, examples of the beam and laminated composite are applied for checking the present approaches numerically, and the final results validate the effective and accurate performance of the present technique.
An RF Energy Harvester System Using UHF Micropower CMOS Rectifier Based on a Diode Connected CMOS Transistor
Authors: Shokrani Mohammad Reza , Khoddam Mojtaba , Hamidon Mohd Nizar B. , Kamsani Noor Ain , Rokhani Fakhrul Zaman , Shafie Suhaidi Bin
Published: March 2014

This paper presents a new type diode connected MOS transistor to improve CMOS conventional rectifier's performance in RF energy harvester systems for wireless sensor networks in which the circuits are designed in 0.18 μm TSMC CMOS technology. The proposed diode connected MOS transistor uses a new bulk connection which leads to reduction in the threshold voltage and leakage current; therefore, it contributes to increment of the rectifier’s output voltage, output current, and efficiency when it is well important in the conventional CMOS rectifiers. The design technique for the rectifiers is explained and a matching network has been proposed to increase the sensitivity of the proposed rectifier. Five-stage rectifier with a matching network is proposed based on the optimization. The simulation results shows 18.2% improvement in the efficiency of the rectifier circuit and increase in sensitivity of RF energy harvester circuit. All circuits are designed in 0.18 μm TSMC CMOS technology.
Oscillation Criteria of Second-Order Dynamic Equations with Damping on Time Scales
Authors: Qiu Yang-Cong , Wang Qi-Ru
Published: March 2014

Using functions in some function classes and a generalized Riccati technique, we establish Kamenev-type oscillation criteria for second-order dynamic equations with damping on time scales of the form(r(t)(xΔ(t))γ)Δ+p(t)(xΔ(t)γ)+f(t,x(g(t)))=0. Two examples are included to show the significance of the results.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells from Ventral Hernia Repair Patients Demonstrate Decreased Vasculogenesis
Authors: Lisiecki Jeffrey , Rinkinen Jacob , Eboda Oluwatobi , Peterson Jonathan , De La Rosa Sara , Agarwal Shailesh , Dimick Justin , Varban Oliver A. , Cederna Paul S. , Wang Stewart C. , Levi Benjamin
Published: March 2014

Introduction.In adipose tissue healing, angiogenesis is stimulated by adipose-derived stromal stem cells (ASCs). Ventral hernia repair (VHR) patients are at high risk for wound infections. We hypothesize that ASCs from VHR patients are less vasculogenic than ASCs from healthy controls.Methods.ASCs were harvested from the subcutaneous fat of patients undergoing VHR by the component separation technique and from matched abdominoplasty patients. RNA and protein were harvested on culture days 0 and 3. Both groups of ASCs were subjected to hypoxic conditions for 12 and 24 hours. RNA was analyzed using qRT-PCR, and protein was used for western blotting. ASCs were also grown in Matrigel under hypoxic conditions and assayed for tubule formation after 24 hours.Results.Hernia patient ASCs demonstrated decreased levels of VEGF-A protein and vasculogenic RNA at 3 days of growth in differentiation media. There were also decreases in VEGF-A protein and vasculogenic RNA after growth in hypoxic conditions compared to control ASCs. After 24 hours in hypoxia, VHR ASCs formed fewer tubules in Matrigel than in control patient ASCs.Conclusion.ASCs derived from VHR patients appear to express fewer vasculogenic markers and form fewer tubules in Matrigel than ASCs from abdominoplasty patients, suggesting decreased vasculogenic activity.
Hemoperitoneum due to Splenic Laceration Caused by Colonoscopy: A Rare and Catastrophic Complication
Authors: Chen Shiao-Han , Ong Jiann-Ruey , Ma Hon-Ping , Chen Po-Shen
Published: March 2014

Numerous studies suggest that in asymptomatic patients, routine follow-up CT is not indicated due to the insignificant findings found on these patients. A 53-year-old man, who denied any underlying disease before, underwent colonoscopy for routine health examination. Sudden onset of abdominal pain around left upper quarter was mentioned at our emergency department. Grade II spleen laceration was found on CT scan. Splenic injury was found few hours later on the day of colonoscopy. It might result from the extra tension between the spleen and splenic flexure which varies from different positions of patients.
Optimal Inconsistency Repairing of Pairwise Comparison Matrices Using Integrated Linear Programming and Eigenvector Methods
Authors: Zhang Haiqing , Sekhari Aicha , Ouzrout Yacine , Bouras Abdelaziz
Published: March 2014

Satisfying consistency requirements of pairwise comparison matrix (PCM) is a critical step in decision making methodologies. An algorithm has been proposed to find a new modified consistent PCM in which it can replace the original inconsistent PCM in analytic hierarchy process (AHP) or in fuzzy AHP. This paper defines the modified consistent PCM by the original inconsistent PCM and an adjustable consistent PCM combined. The algorithm adopts a segment tree to gradually approach the greatest lower bound of the distance with the original PCM to obtain the middle value of an adjustable PCM. It also proposes a theorem to obtain the lower value and the upper value of an adjustable PCM based on two constraints. The experiments for crisp elements show that the proposed approach can preserve more of the original information than previous works of the same consistent value. The convergence rate of our algorithm is significantly faster than previous works with respect to different parameters. The experiments for fuzzy elements show that our method could obtain suitable modified fuzzy PCMs.
MYH9-Related Disease: Description of a Large Chinese Pedigree and a Survey of Reported Mutations
Authors: Zhang Shufang , Zhou Xueya , Liu Shengnan , Bai Tingting , Zhang Yingai , Wang Jing , Wang Shunlan , Zhang Xuegong , Wang Binbin
Published: March 2014

We describe a large four-generational Chinese pedigree segregating MYH9-related disease caused by a V1516L mutation. The clinical findings supported previously established genotype-phenotype correlations, and also demonstrated interindividual variability of disease manifestations even within the same family. The same mutation was previously reported in another Chinese pedigree but resulting from a different DNA substitution. Analyzing the patterns of previously reported mutations revealed a limited spectrum of pathogenic variants. The implications of this finding are discussed.
Perioperative Complications and 90-Day Mortality of Radical Cystectomy in the Elderly (75+): A Retrospective, Multicentre Study
Authors: Berger Ingrid , Martini Thomas , Wehrberger Clemens , Comploj Eva , Ponholzer Anton , Wolfgang Martina , Breinl Eckart , Dunzinger Michael , Hofbauer Johann , Höltl Wolfgang , Jeschke Klaus , Krause Steffen , Kugler Walter , Pauer Walter , Rauchenwald Michael , Pycha Armin , Madersbacher Stephan
Published: March 2014

Objective: To assess perioperative complications and 90-day mortality of radical cystectomy (RC) in elderly patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective, multicentre (n = 11) study of a consecutive series of patients ≥75 years who underwent RC for MIBC between 2006 and 2010. Medical, surgical and wound complications were graded according to the modified Clavien-Dindo classification. Results: A total of 256 patients with a mean age of 79.6 years (range 75.0-86.6) were analysed. Urinary diversion with the use of bowel was performed in 79.5% and ureterocutaneostomy in 20.5%, with a higher proportion in the ≥80 cohort (32.2 vs. 14%; p = 0.001). 41.4% of patients had an uneventful postoperative course (Clavien grade 0) and 26.6% developed severe complications (Clavien grade III-V). In a multivariable regression analysis, the Charlson comorbidity index (odds ratio 1.5 per unit increase; p < 0.001) and the body mass index (odds ratio 1.13 per kg/m2 increase; p = 0.015) were predictors for the development of complications. The 90-day mortality rate was 9% and the independent correlates thereof were the development of severe medical complications (p = 0.004), the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score (p = 0.03) and age (p = 0.005). Conclusions: Morbidity and 90-day mortality of RC in the elderly remain substantial. The interrelation between comorbidity, complication rate and 90-day mortality underlines the need for a comprehensive geriatric assessment of elderly patients with MIBC in whom RC is indicated.
Online Kt/V Monitoring in Haemodialysis by UV Absorbance: Variations during Intra-Dialytic Meals
Authors: Müller-Deile Janina , Lichtinghagen Ralf , Haller Hermann , Schmitt Roland
Published: March 2014

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to analyse if intra-dialytic food intake may lead to changes in online Kt/V. Methods: Forty patients were analysed using haemodialysis machines with integrated online Kt/V monitoring based on UV absorbance or ionic dialysance. Kt/V was monitored before, during and after food intake. Samples of dialysate were analysed for urea, uric acid, creatinine and glucose levels. Results: Food intake was associated with a significant decrease in relative Kt/V when determined by UV absorbance. The drop in Kt/V was independent of changes in blood pressure or body posture. No significant changes in online Kt/V were found using the ionic dialysance method. Dialysate samples showed a continuous clearance of urea, uric acid and creatinine during meals but a rapid increase in glucose. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the short meal-associated decrease in online Kt/V as measured by UV absorbance does not represent a true decline in Kt/V but might reflect an intermittent increase in UV-absorbing dialysed solutes.
Pneumologische Rehabilitation bei Patienten mit idiopathischer pulmonaler Fibrose - eine Übersicht
Authors: Kenn K. , Gloeckl R. , Behr J.
Published: March 2014

Von den verschiedenen Formen der interstitiellen Lungenerkrankungen ist die idiopathische pulmonale Fibrose (IPF) die häufigste. Die Krankheit ist mit einer sehr schlechten Prognose assoziiert und spricht nur begrenzt auf medikamentöse Therapien an. Funktionelle Belastungstoleranz und Lebensqualität sind bei IPF-Patienten nachweislich signifikant herabgesetzt. Aktuelle IPF-Richtlinien enthalten lediglich eine schwache Empfehlung für die pneumologische Rehabilitation (PR). Allerdings wird die PR als sinnvolle Maßnahme für die Mehrheit der IPF-Patienten angesehen. In der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit sind alle bisher verfügbaren Studien zusammengefasst, in denen die Auswirkungen der PR auf IPF-Patienten untersucht worden sind. Die Anzahl der bisher veröffentlichten Studien ist zwar gering, dennoch wurden in den meisten dieser Studien signifikante kurzfristige Verbesserungen der funktionellen körperlichen Leistungsfähigkeit, der Lebensqualität und der wahrgenommenen Dyspnoe festgestellt. Langfristige Verbesserungen oder PR-Erhaltungsstrategien bei IPF-Patienten sind noch nicht ausreichend untersucht worden. Bis heute liegt keine ausreichende Evidenz vor, um eine Empfehlung für die PR bei IPF auszusprechen. Körperliches Training scheint jedoch die Hauptkomponente aller PR-Programme zu sein. In der vorliegenden Übersicht werden mögliche Trainingsprogramme für IPF-Patienten vorgestellt und zusätzliche sinnvolle Modalitäten für ein interdisziplinäres IPF-spezifisches PR-Programm vorgeschlagen. Basierend auf der aktuellen Literatur und unserer eigenen Erfahrung soll dieser Artikel die Bedeutung der PR als zusätzliche, sinnvolle therapeutische Option für Patienten mit IPF beleuchten. Übersetzung aus Respiration 2013;86:89-99 (DOI:10.1159/000354112)
Antimicrobial Susceptibilities and Clinical Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Zhang Xiaobing , Niu Siqiang , Zhang Liping
Published: March 2014

Introduction:Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a uropathogen that is mainly involved in nosocomial infection. The aim of this study was to analyze the antimicrobial susceptibilities and clinical characterization of P. aeruginosa isolates from urinary tract infections (UTIs). Materials and Methods: The study collected all P. aeruginosa UTI strains from a hospital in Chongqing, China, from January 1st, 2010 to December 31st, 2011. The antibiotic susceptibilities of the P. aeruginosa isolates were analyzed using the agar dilution method and the genotypes were assessed using random amplification of polymorphic DNA-PCR (RAPD-PCR). The clinical characteristics of the patients with UTIs were collected from the hospital information systems, and significance was analyzed using the proportion test. Results: A total of 2,778 episodes of culture-proven UTIs were used in the study. There were 198 infections (7.1%) caused by P. aeruginosa. P. aeruginosa strains were highly resistant to most drugs tested. The RAPD-PCR data revealed that the 198 P. aeruginosa infections had 82 different genotypes. Antibacterial use, previous UTI, urinary tract catheter and urinary tract operation were found to be risk factors for the development of UTIs. Conclusions:P. aeruginosa is the second most common UTI pathogen in our hospital. We should closely monitor patients with risk factors for P. aeruginosa infection.
High Completeness of the Brest Stroke Registry Evidenced by Analysis of Sources and Capture-Recapture Method
Authors: Timsit S. , Nowak E. , Rouhart F. , Goas P. , Merrien F.M. , Tirel-Badet A. , Viakhireva-Dovganyuk I. , Zagnoli F. , Tanguy-Laine K. , Blanchard C. , Leblanc A. , Oger E. ,   Stroke Brest Registry Investigators
Published: March 2014

Background: Population-based stroke registries are necessary to evaluate the precise burden of stroke. The methodology used in the Brest Stroke Registry and an estimation of its completeness are described. Methods: ‘Hot pursuit' as well as ‘cold pursuit' were used, and five sources of identification were included: emergency wards, brain imaging, practitioners, death certificates and hospital-based electronic research. Ascertainment for each case was certified by a neurologist. Inclusion criteria were: (1) age >15 years; (2) a stroke defined by WHO criteria or all neurological deficits lasting at least 1 h. Completeness was estimated using capture-recapture method. Results: For 2008, 2009 and 2010, 851, 898, 823 patients were collected, respectively. The number of sources of identification per patient was as follows: one source: 30.8, 24.1 and 18.7%; two sources: 54.5, 42.9 and 31.0%; three sources: 13.4, 30.1 and 46%; four sources: 1.3, 3.0 and 3.8%. Capture-recapture analysis showed data completeness over 90%. Standardized cumulative first-ever stroke incidence using a world standard population was 87 in 2008, 87 in 2009 and 84 in 2010. Conclusions: Case ascertainment by a neurologist, numerous sources, as well as ‘hot' and ‘cold' pursuit can provide a reliably large data set suitable for further epidemiological studies.
First record of the critically endangered Hydrangea steyermarkii Standl. (Hydrangeaceae) in Mexico, and description of a new widespread Hydrangea species of Mesoamerica
Authors: Samain Marie-Stéphanie , NAJARRO FRANCISCO HERNÁNDEZ , SALAS ESTEBAN MANUEL MARTÍNEZ
Published: March 2014

Based on our detailed observations in the field, completed with herbarium material of representatives of Hydrangea section Cornidia in southeastern Mexico and Central America, we found that Hydrangea steyermarkii Standley, in contrast to what has been assumed up to now, is restricted to the Tacaná Volcano on the border of Mexico and Guatemala. The majority of the specimens with reddish or whitish indument on their branches in South East Mexico and Central America, belonging to this nearly exclusively Neotropical Hydrangea clade, had been identified as such, but the characters of these collections do not coincide with the single type specimen of H. steyermarkii, neither with other individuals of this species growing in the type locality area. In fact, nearly all specimens of Mesoamerica that had been identified as this species belong to a new species with a relatively wide distribution, which we describe here. This new species is illustrated and compared with H. steyermarkii, of which we also provide an amended description and illustrations. Finally, on the basis of these two species we document previously suggested dioecism in this plant group, which not only has consequences for systematics and nomenclature in this clade, but also for conservation.
Notes on Early Land Plants Today. 47. Transfer of Iwatsukia to Odontoschisma (Cephaloziaceae, Marchantiophyta)
Authors: GRADSTEIN S. ROBBERT , ARANDA SILVIA CALVO , VANDERPOORTEN ALAIN
Published: March 2014

The genus Iwatsukia (Cephaloziaceae) is a small tropical liverwort genus of 4 species, Iwatsukia exigua from Sabah and New Guinea, Iwatsukia bifida from Venezuela and Costa Rica, the pantropical Iwatsukia jishibae, and Iwatsukia spinosa from Venezuela (Schuster 1968, 2002). Vilnet et al. (2012) showed that Iwatsukia jishibae is nested in Odontoschisma (Dumortier 1831: 68) Dumortier (1835: 19) and Váňa et al. (2013) made the necessary nomenclatural transfer. In the framework of a phylogenetic and taxonomic study of Odontoschisma and related genera which is in preparation, we were able to confirm the position of Iwatsukia jishibae in Odontoschisma. In addition, we found that Iwatsukia bifida is nested in Odontoschisma, forming a separate lineage within the genus together with Iwatsukia jishibae. We also found that Iwatsukia exigua, the type species of Iwatsukia, is a synonym of Iwatsukia jishibae. We therefore transfer the genus Iwatsukia to Odontoschisma.
The Australian Monstrilloida (Crustacea: Copepoda) I. Monstrillopsis Sars, Maemonstrilla Grygier & Ohtsuka, and Australomonstrillopsis gen. nov.
Authors: SUÁREZ-MORALES EDUARDO , MCKINNON A. DAVID
Published: March 2014

Monstrilloid copepods were collected during zooplankton surveys in reef and coastal areas of Australia. Representatives of all four genera of the Monstrilloida (Monstrilla Dana, Monstrillopsis Sars, Cymbasoma Thompson, and Maemonstrilla Grygier & Ohtsuka) were recorded. In this contribution a taxonomic analysis of specimens belonging to the latter two genera is provided, and a new genus described. The genus Monstrillopsis was represented exclusively by male specimens, on the basis of which three new species are described: Mon. hastata sp. nov., Mon. boonwurrungorum sp. nov., and Mon. nanus sp. nov. These are distinguished from each other and previously described species of this genus by details of the genital complex (or genital apparatus), body size, ornamentation of the cephalic surface, number of caudal setae, and characteristic modifications of the fifth antennular segment. All have distinctive characters not associated with sexual modifications, which will ease the task of matching females collected in future studies. Australomonstrillopsis gen. nov. is proposed to accommodate a male specimen with a unique combination of characters including massively developed caudal rami, cephalic perioral protuberances, and absence of an inner seta on the first exopodal segment of legs 1–4, among other characters. The new genus is monotypic and contains A. crassicaudata sp. nov. Three of the four new species of Maemonstrilla (Mae. ohtsukai sp. nov., Mae. hoi sp. nov., and Mae. protuberans sp. nov.) belong to the Mae. hyottoko species group, and the remaining one, Mae. crenulata sp. nov., belongs to the Mae. turgida group. Each of the new species of Maemonstrilla from Australia can be distinguished from its known congeners by a unique combination of characters including the type of body reticulation, body size, antennule and body proportions, distinctive characters of the swimming legs, details of the antennular armature, and the presence/absence of a posteroventral process on the genital compound somite. With the addition of the four new species of Monstrillopsis and the four of Maemonstrilla described herein, the number of species in these genera has increased to 13 and 11 species, respectively. In no case did congeneric species co-occur, hinting that there may be a rich species diversity yet to be discovered within the Australian Monstrilloida.
Inundicola Bravo, Isler, and Brumfield 2013 is a junior synonym of Akletos Dunajewski 1948 (Aves: Passeriformes: Thamnophilidae)
Authors: ISLER MORTON L. , BRAVO GUSTAVO A. , BRUMFIELD ROBB T.
Published: March 2014

In examining the history of generic names given to species in the polytypic genus Myrmeciza (Isler et al. 2013), we did not uncover the genus Akletos. This name had been applied by Dunajewski (1948) to a new species, Akletos peruvianus, represented by a single specimen collected by Fiedler on 16 March 1934 at what is now Cumaría, Ucayali, Peru, and deposited in the Museum and Institute of Zoology of the Polish Academy of Sciences (MIZ 34107). The species was said to be similar to Attila Lesson, which at the time was placed in the family Cotingidae. The holotype was later identified as Myrmeciza melanoceps by Stresemann (Mayr 1956) as reported by Mlíkovský (2009) who also confirmed the identification. To provide further confirmation and documentation, Dominika Mierzwa of the Museum and Institute of Zoology of the Polish Academy of Sciences provided digital photographs of the type, clearly a female, an example of which is included herein.        Thus, the generic name Inundicola Bravo, Isler, and Brumfield 2013 is a junior synonym of Akletos Dunajewski 1948. The generic descriptions provided in Isler et al. 2013 are amended as follows.
Neotropical species of Meteorus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Meteorinae) parasitizing Arctiinae (Lepidoptera: Noctuoidea: Erebidae)
Authors: AGUIRRE HELMUTH , SHAW SCOTT R.
Published: March 2014

Three new species of Meteorus parasitoids of Arctiinae are described: Meteorus anuae n. sp., M. juliae n. sp. and M. mirandae n. sp. The first biological record for M. cecavorum Aguirre & Shaw as well as its cocoon description is reported. A comprehensive key for the Neotropical Meteorus attacking Arctiinae is provided. A total of nine Meteorus species have been reared from Arctiinae in the Neotropical Region. Six of them are gregarious and three solitary. The biological information about host and food plants concurs with the hypothesis of specialist parasitoids preferring “nasty” caterpillars.
Review of the Olethreutes bowmanana-magadana species group, with the description of a new species from the Amur River, Russia (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Authors: DUBATOLOV VLADIMIR V. , BOGUNOVA ANNA A. , NEDOSHIVINA SVETLANA V.
Published: March 2014

We define and review the Olethreutes bowmanana-magadana species group comprised of Olethreutes bowmanana (McDunnough), O. magadana (Falkovitsh), O. kamtshadala (Falkovitsh), and O. pivanica, sp. n., the last from petrophytous sunny slopes in the Amur River. The new species differs from other species of the group by a narrow, triangular-shaped apical process from the sacculus; a round, wide, apical bulb from the cucullus; and a longer, narrow neck of the valva.
The correct authorship and type locality of Melanocorypha leucoptera (Aves: Passeriformes, Alaudidae)
Authors: SCHODDE RICHARD , BOCK WALTER J. , DICKINSON EDWARD C. , DOWSETT ROBERT J. , LECROY MARY K. , PALMA RICARDO L. , VIOLANI CARLO
Published: March 2014

Mlíkovský (2013) proposed replacing the widely-used Melanocorypha leucoptera (Pallas, 1811) with Melanocorypha leucoptera (Hablizl, 1785) as the correct name for the White-winged Lark, with consequent shift in type locality from the Irtyš River-Baraba steppe region in south Siberia to the Crimea. This action breaches Art. 80.9 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN 1999), hereafter “the Code”. That article states that “no ruling given by the Commission in relation to a particular work, name, or nomenclatural act is to be set aside without the consent of the Commission”. Melanocorypha leucoptera of Pallas (1811), as published in his Zoographia Rosso-Asiatica, was conserved explicitly in Opinion 403 of the Commission (ICZN 1956), and no consent to Mlíkovský’s findings has been given since.
Sex and Marriage in the Sentences of Peter Lombard
Authors: Finn Thomas M.
Published: March 2014

Scholastic theology first saw the light of day among the masters in the twelfth-century schools of Europe. Chief among the masters of theology was Peter Lombard, whose Sentences became the textbook in the universities of Europe until the 16th century. This article studies the theology of sex and marriage in Book 4 of the Sentences against the background of the long and difficult road marriage travelled from a familial and secular event to the sacramental world of the church.
Sine Culpa? Vatican II and Inculpable Ignorance
Authors: Bullivant Stephen
Published: March 2014

Lumen gentium no. 16's genuine optimism for the salvation of non-Christians is nonetheless a heavily qualified one. Among other things, it applies only to those “who are, without fault, ignorant [sine culpa, ignorantes] of the Gospel of Christ and his Church.” This article examines (1) Vatican II's understanding of such “inculpable ignorance” and its relationship to the traditional concept “invincible ignorance” and (2)—more speculatively—the extent to which it might apply in modern, Western societies.
Oscar Romero's Theology of Transfiguration
Authors: Pfeil Margaret R.
Published: March 2014

Releasing three of his four pastoral letters on August 6, the patronal feast day of El Salvador, Oscar Romero linked his Transfiguration homilies with his contributions to Catholic social teaching to reflect a theology of transfiguration rooted in three interrelated commitments: an eschatological understanding of Salvadoran history as part of salvation history; an ecclesiology firmly grounded in a view of the people of God as the Body of Christ in history; and a contemplative awareness of the ethical implications of Jesus' invitation to his disciples to accompany him from Tabor to Calvary.
Oncofertility and the Boundaries of Moral Reflection
Authors: Lauritzen Paul , Vicini Andrea
Published: March 2014

Advances in medical technology provide regular opportunities to explore theological reflection and magisterial teaching at the border of science and conscience. This article reflects on one such advance involving fertility preservation for cancer patients. The authors argue that ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) poses intriguing questions for Catholic teaching and theologians about reproductive technology.
Clerical and Religious Child Abuse: Ireland and Beyond
Authors: Hogan Linda
Published: March 2014

The note considers recent theological commentary on the clerical sexual abuse crisis in Ireland and beyond. It examines the nature and extent of the crisis within the Catholic Church through the lens of the Murphy and Ryan Reports. These two reports together provide an invaluable resource for understanding the theological, ethical, and ecclesiological dimensions of this scandal. The note also considers “the shape of the reform” that is urgently needed within the Church under the headings of (1) the body and sexuality, (2) patriarchy and the abuse of power, and (3) church, ministry, and leadership.
Indissoluble Marriage: A Reply to Kenneth Himes and James Coriden
Authors: Ryan Peter F. , Grisez Germain
Published: March 2014

The article is a reply to one by Kenneth Himes and James Coriden published in our September 2004 issue. Except for minor sylistic changes, the article is published as it was received.
Understanding psycho-social processes underpinning engagement with services in motor neurone disease: A qualitative study
Authors: Foley Geraldine , Timonen Virpi , Hardiman Orla
Published: March 2014

Background:

People with motor neurone disease access healthcare services from disease onset to end-of-life care, but there has been paucity of research on how people with motor neurone disease understand and use healthcare services.

Aim:

To identify key psycho-social processes that underpin how people with motor neurone disease engage with healthcare services.

Design:

Grounded theory approach comprising in-depth qualitative interviews was used in this study. Data were collected and analysed using open, axial and selective coding procedures.

Setting/participants:

A total of 34 people with motor neurone disease were recruited from the Irish motor neurone disease population-based register.

Results:

We identified that control, reassurance, resignation and trust are key variables that shape how people with motor neurone disease engage with healthcare services. Participants exerted control in care to cope with loss. Most participants were resigned to death and sought reassurances from healthcare professionals about end-of-life care. Participants questioned the benefit of life-sustaining interventions in motor neurone disease and few of them associated life-sustaining interventions with palliative care. Participants trusted healthcare professionals who reassured them about their care and who were attuned to how they were coming to terms with loss.

Conclusion:

This study identified new and important aspects of control, trust and reassurance which shed light on how people with motor neurone disease engage with healthcare professionals and approach end-of-life care. People with motor neurone disease exert control in care and meaningful relationships with healthcare professionals are important to them. Some people with motor neurone disease prefer to die without life-sustaining interventions.
La propension à résister du consommateur : contribution à l’étude d’une disposition à s’opposer aux tentatives d’influence marchande
Authors: Banikema Annie Stéphanie , Roux Dominique
Published: March 2014

L’objectif de cet article est de proposer une approche dispositionnelle de la propension à résister du consommateur (PRC), capable de prédire des comportements critiques à l’égard du marché. Une revue de la littérature et une étude qualitative permettent de définir le construit et ses deux dimensions – l’Affirmation de soi et la Protection de soi. Une échelle de mesure est développée grâce à une série d’études auprès de quatre échantillons. Au terme de cette collecte de données auprès de 1 721 individus, un modèle final teste les liens entre les deux dimensions de la PRC, leurs antécédents psychologiques et leurs effets sur des comportements et orientations critiques au marché.
Anatomic suitability for endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms and possible benefits of low profile delivery systems
Authors: Kristmundsson Thorarinn , Sonesson Björn , Dias Nuno , Malina Martin , Resch Timothy
Published: March 2014

The aim of the study was to evaluate the anatomic suitability for endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR) according to instructions for use (IFUs) of three commercially available bifurcated stent graft devices and explore the possible benefits of low-profile delivery systems. Computed tomography scans of 241 patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) were evaluated for suitability of Zenith Flex®, Gore Excluder® and Endurant® bifurcated stent graft systems according to their IFUs. The most common exclusion criteria and possible benefits of smaller diameter delivery systems were analyzed. When choosing the most suitable graft model for each patient, the overall suitability was 49.4%. By brand, the suitability was 28.6% for Zenith®, 25.7% for Gore Excluder® and 48.1% for Endurant®. By step wise accepting iliac diameters of ≥6 mm, ≥5 mm and ≥4 mm the overall suitability increased to 56.7, 58.9 and 60.2%, respectively ( P < 0.001). Diameters below 4 mm had no additional effect on suitability as combinations of other anatomical features, with or without narrow iliacs, accounted for the remaining excluding factors. In conclusion, Less than half of patients with AAAs are suitable for EVAR according to current IFUs. Low-profile delivery systems may allow for endovascular treatment in up to 60% of patients.
Role of the femorofemoral crossover graft in acute lower limb ischemia due to acute type B aortic dissection
Authors: Corfield Lorraine , McCormack David J , Bell Rachel , Taylor Peter , Reidy John
Published: March 2014

Acute limb ischemia due to type B aortic dissection is rare and continues to be a management challenge. A case series is presented here with the aim of assessing the outcomes of treatment with a femorofemoral crossover graft with or without thoracic stent graft insertion. This is a combined retrospective and prospective review of nine cases of acute lower limb ischemia secondary to acute type B aortic dissection. The presenting features, radiological findings, treatment and outcomes were reviewed. Five patients had a femorofemoral crossover graft (FFXO) alone, two an FFXO with a thoracic stent graft and the eighth a thoracic and iliac stent. The other case was initially treated conservatively but subsequently required an FFXO. The mean follow-up was 16 (3–51) months. A further two thoracic stents were placed during the follow-up period. Thus five out of nine patients (56%) required aortic stenting. This series suggests that an FFXO is a reliable treatment for acute limb ischemia due to type B aortic dissection. However, these patients are often complex with ischemia in other vascular beds and are at risk of subsequent aneurysmal dilation.
Radiation dose to the interventionalist is directly affected by the operating position
Authors: Ullery Brant W , Landau Bruce , Wang Grace J , Faifrman Ronald M , Woo Edward Y
Published: March 2014

We aimed to determine the optimal positioning of the interventionalist with regard to radiation exposure during endovascular aneurysm repairs (EVAR). The radiation absorption of two vascular surgeons and one trainee was prospectively monitored during a series of 10 routine EVARs. Position of the two vascular surgeons varied: surgeon A stood adjacent to the trainee and one person down from the image intensifier (II), whereas surgeon B stood directly across from the trainee at the same level as the II. Surgeon A absorbed significantly less mean body (0.004 mSv versus 0.036 mSv; P = 0.001), eye (0.036 versus 0.222 mSv; P < 0.001) and extremity (0.034 versus 0.212 mSv; P < 0.001) radiation doses compared with surgeon B and also had significantly lower doses of absorbed body (0.004 versus 0.04 mSv; P = 0.047), eye (0.036 versus 0.25 mSv; P = 0.043) and extremity (0.034 versus 0.248 mSv; P = 0.05) radiation relative to the trainee. In conclusion, there is considerable variation in radiation absorption due to the position of the interventionalist relative to the II and other operators. Although positioning of the operator next to the trainee may make it more difficult to assist and teach technical maneuvers, it greatly minimizes radiation exposure to the interventionalist.
Cognitive Animation Theory: A Process-Based Reading of Animation and Human Cognition
Authors: Torre Dan
Published: March 2014

This article considers both animation and human cognition in terms of process philosophy, and articulates some common ground between the processes of animation and the processes of human cognitive imagery. In doing so it suggests a new cognitive theory of animation – one that differs dramatically from the bulk of the literature surrounding cognitive film theories, which tend to focus only on the viewer’s cognitive response to the completed film. Instead this theory will address a number of process philosophy-based ideas that, together with a discussion of the use of cognitive imagery, can position animation quite apart from other mediums. Firstly, the author suggests that movement and image should be considered as distinct entities both in the animated form and in human cognition. Next, he suggests that animation and cognitive imagery are often made up of numerous layers signaling a unique set of processes and facilitating greater creative and epistemic potential. And finally the article considers the influence of sound as well as the comparative uses of metamorphosis.
Activation of CB2 receptors as a potential therapeutic target for migraine: evaluation in an animal model
Authors: Greco Rosaria , Mangione Antonina Stefania , Sandrini Giorgio , Nappi Giuseppe , Tassorelli Cristina
Published: March 2014

Background

Experimental animal models of migraine have suggested the existence of interactions between the endocannabinoid system and pain mediation in migraine. Extensive evidence has demonstrated a role for the cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor in antinociception. However, recent research suggests that also CB2 receptors, especially located outside the central nervous system, play a role in the perception of pain. Systemic administration of nitroglycerin (NTG) consistently induces spontaneous-like headache attacks in migraneurs; in the rat, systemic NTG induces a condition of hyperalgesia, probably through the activation of cerebral/spinal structures involved in nociceptive transmission. In this study we evaluated the role of CB2 receptors in two animal models of pain that may be relevant for migraine: the tail flick test and the formalin test performed during NTG-induced hyperalgesia.

Methods

The study was performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats pre-treated with NTG (10 mg/kg, i.p.) or vehicle (4 hours before) and treated with the CB2 agonist AM1241 o dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) 60 minutes before both the tail flick test and the formalin test.

Results

AM1241 showed a significant analgesic effect in baseline conditions in both tests. Furthermore, when administered 3 hours after NTG administration, AM1241 at both doses significantly reduced the total number of flinches/shakes during phase II of the test.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the pharmacological manipulation of the CB2 receptor may represent a potential therapeutic tool for the treatment of migraine.
Comparative analysis of CRISPR cassettes from the human gut metagenomic contigs
Authors: Gogleva Anna A , Gelfand Mikhail S , Artamonova Irena I
Published: March 2014

Background

CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is a prokaryotic adaptive defence system that provides resistance against alien replicons such as viruses and plasmids. Spacers in a CRISPR cassette confer immunity against viruses and plasmids containing regions complementary to the spacers and hence they retain a footprint of interactions between prokaryotes and their viruses in individual strains and ecosystems. The human gut is a rich habitat populated by numerous microorganisms, but a large fraction of these are unculturable and little is known about them in general and their CRISPR systems in particular.

Results

We used human gut metagenomic data from three open projects in order to characterize the composition and dynamics of CRISPR cassettes in the human-associated microbiota. Applying available CRISPR-identification algorithms and a previously designed filtering procedure to the assembled human gut metagenomic contigs, we found 388 CRISPR cassettes, 373 of which had repeats not observed previously in complete genomes or other datasets. Only 171 of 3,545 identified spacers were coupled with protospacers from the human gut metagenomic contigs. The number of matches to GenBank sequences was negligible, providing protospacers for 26 spacers.

Reconstruction of CRISPR cassettes allowed us to track the dynamics of spacer content. In agreement with other published observations we show that spacers shared by different cassettes (and hence likely older ones) tend to the trailer ends, whereas spacers with matches in the metagenomes are distributed unevenly across cassettes, demonstrating a preference to form clusters closer to the active end of a CRISPR cassette, adjacent to the leader, and hence suggesting dynamical interactions between prokaryotes and viruses in the human gut. Remarkably, spacers match protospacers in the metagenome of the same individual with frequency comparable to a random control, but may match protospacers from metagenomes of other individuals.

Conclusions

The analysis of assembled contigs is complementary to the approach based on the analysis of original reads and hence provides additional data about composition and evolution of CRISPR cassettes, revealing the dynamics of CRISPR-phage interactions in metagenomes.
Effect of human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on neuronal metabolites in ischemic rabbits
Authors: Guan Ye-Ming , Zhu Yao , Liu Xue-Chun , Huang Hai-Li , Wang Zhi-Wei , Liu Bo , Zhu You-Zi , Wang Qing-Song
Published: March 2014

Background

Because there is little research on the effects of transplanted stem cells on neuronal metabolites in infarct areas, we transplanted human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) into cerebral ischemic rabbits and examined the neuronal metabolites.

Results

Rabbits (n = 40) were equally divided into sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), hUCB-MSC, and saline groups. The rabbit ischemic model was established by MCAO. The effects of hUCB-MSC transplantation were assessed by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS), neurological severity scores (NSSs), infarct area volume, neuronal density, and optical density (OD) of microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2)-positive cells. We also evaluated complete blood cell counts(CBCs) and serum biochemical parameters. NSSs in the hUCB-MSC group at 7 and 14 days after reperfusion were lower than in MCAO and saline groups (p < 0.05). Compared with MCAO and saline groups at 2 weeks after MCAO, the infarction volume in the hUCB-MSC group had decreased remarkably (p < 0.05). Significant neuronal metabolic changes occurred in the infarct area at 24 h and 2 weeks after MCAO. 1H-MRS revealed an elevation in the lactate (Lac)/creatine including phosphocreatine (Cr) ratio and a decrease in the N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/Cr and choline-containing phospholipids (Cho)/Cr ratios at 24 h after MCAO in the MCAO group (p < 0.01). Compared with saline and MCAO groups at 24 h and 2 weeks after MCAO, NAA/Cr and Cho/Cr ratios had increased significantly, whereas the Lac/Cr ratio had decreased significantly in the hUCB-MSC group (p < 0.01). Neuronal density and OD of MAP2-positive cells in the MCAO group were significantly lower than those in the sham group, whereas the neuronal density and OD of MAP2-positive cells in the hUCB-MSC group were higher than those in MCAO and saline groups (p < 0.05). CBCs and biochemical parameters were unchanged in the MCAO group at 24 h and 2 weeks after hUCB-MSC transplantation.

Conclusions

Transplanted hUCB-MSCs might ameliorate ischemic damage by influencing neuronal metabolites in the infarct area, providing additional evidence for neuroprotection by stem cells. No significant changes were observed in CBCs or serum biochemical parameters, suggesting that intravenous infusion of hUCB-MSCs is safe for rabbits in the short-term.
Large-scale microsatellite development in grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.), an orphan legume of the arid areas
Authors: Yang Tao , Jiang Junye , Burlyaeva Marina , Hu Jinguo , Coyne Clarice J , Kumar Shiv , Redden Robert , Sun Xuelian , Wang Fang , Chang Jianwu , Hao Xiaopeng , Guan Jianping , Zong Xuxiao
Published: March 2014

Background

Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L., 2n = 14), a member of the family Leguminosae, holds great agronomic potential as grain and forage legume crop in the arid areas for its superb resilience to abiotic stresses such as drought, flood and salinity. The crop could not make much progress through conventional breeding in the past, and there are hardly any detailed molecular biology studies due to paucity of reliable molecular markers representative of the entire genome.

Results

Using the 454 FLX Titanium pyrosequencing technique, 651,827 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were identified and 50,144 nonredundant primer pairs were successfully designed, of which 288 were randomly selected for validation among 23 L. sativus and one L. cicera accessions of diverse provenance. 74 were polymorphic, 70 monomorphic, and 144 with no PCR product. The number of observed alleles ranged from two to five, the observed heterozygosity from 0 to 0.9545, and Shannon’s information index ranged from 0.1013 to 1.0980, respectively. The dendrogram constructed by using unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) based on Nei's genetic distance, showed obvious distinctions and understandable relationships among the 24 accessions.

Conclusions

The large number of SSR primer pairs developed in this study would make a significant contribution to genomics enabled improvement of grasspea.