bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining Information of Autonomic Modulation and CGM Measurements Enables Prediction and Improves Detection of Spontaneous Hypoglycemic Events
Authors: Cichosz Simon Lebech , Frystyk Jan , Tarnow Lise , Fleischer Jesper
Published: September 2014

Background:

We have previously tested, in a laboratory setting, a novel algorithm that enables prediction of hypoglycemia. The algorithm integrates information of autonomic modulation, based on heart rate variability (HRV), and data based on a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device. Now, we investigate whether the algorithm is suitable for prediction of hypoglycemia and for improvement of hypoglycemic detection during normal daily activities.

Methods:

Twenty-one adults (13 men) with T1D prone to hypoglycemia were recruited and monitored with CGM and a Holter device while they performed normal daily activities. We used our developed algorithm (a pattern classification method) to predict spontaneous hypoglycemia based on CGM and HRV. We compared 3 different models; (i) a model containing raw data from the CGM device; (ii) a CGM* model containing data derived from the CGM device signal; and (iii) a CGM+HRV model-combining model (ii) with HRV data.

Results:

A total of 12 hypoglycemic events (glucose levels < 3.9 mmol/L, 70 mg/dL) and 237 euglycemic measurements were included. For a 20-minute prediction, model (i) resulted in a ROC AUC of 0.69. If a high sensitivity of 100% was chosen, the corresponding specificity was 69%. (ii) The CGM* model yielded a ROC AUC of 0.92 with a corresponding sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 71%. (iii) The CGM+HRV model yielded a ROC AUC of 0.96 with a corresponding sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 91%.

Conclusions:

Data shows that adding information of autonomic modulation to CGM measurements enables prediction and improves the detection of hypoglycemia.
Role of allogeneic transplantation in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the era of novel therapies: a review
Authors: Mewawalla Prerna , Nathan Sunita
Published: September 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common form of adult leukemia and is characterized by a highly variable clinical course. In the past decade, several prognostic risk factors have been identified facilitating the classification of CLL into various risk groups. Patients with poor risk disease, such as poor cytogenetics or relapsing after purine-based analogues, had limited therapeutic options, with allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-SCT) the only known therapy with curative potential. More recently, the introduction of novel agents inhibiting the B-cell receptor pathway, and the early success with chimeric antigen receptor T cells offers an effective and relatively safe option for this poor prognostic group which holds promise in the future. Alternatively, the use of reduced intensity conditioning regimens in the allo-SCT setting has led to a significant decrease in nonrelapse mortality to 16–23%, making it an attractive therapeutic option. No recent guidelines have been developed since these novel therapies became available regarding the optimal time to allo-SCT in this patient population. The advent of these novel and highly active therapeutic agents, therefore, warrants a reappraisal of the role and timing of allo-SCT in patients with CLL. In this article, we summarize the literature regarding the novel therapeutic agents available today as well as focus on the efficacy and safety of allo-SCT.
A highly efficient method for generation of therapeutic quality human pluripotent stem cells by using naive induced pluripotent stem cells nucleus for nuclear transfer
Authors: Sanal Madhusudana Girija
Published: September 2014

Even after several years since the discovery of human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), we are still unable to make any significant therapeutic benefits out of them such as cell therapy or generation of organs for transplantation. Recent success in somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) made it possible to generate diploid embryonic stem cells, which opens up the way to make high-quality pluripotent stem cells. However, the process is highly inefficient and hence expensive compared to the generation of iPSC. Even with the latest SCNT technology, we are not sure whether one can make therapeutic quality pluripotent stem cell from any patient’s somatic cells or by using oocytes from any donor. Combining iPSC technology with SCNT, that is, by using the nucleus of the candidate somatic cell which got reprogrammed to pluripotent state instead that of the unmodified nucleus of the candidate somatic cell, would boost the efficiency of the technique, and we would be able to generate therapeutic quality pluripotent stem cells. Induced pluripotent stem cell nuclear transfer (iPSCNT) combines the efficiency of iPSC generation with the speed and natural reprogramming environment of SCNT. The new technique may be called iPSCNT. This technique could prove to have very revolutionary benefits for humankind. This could be useful in generating organs for transplantation for patients and for reproductive cloning, especially for childless men and women who cannot have children by any other techniques. When combined with advanced gene editing techniques (such as CRISPR-Cas system) this technique might also prove useful to those who want to have healthy children but suffer from inherited diseases. The current code of ethics may be against reproductive cloning. However, this will change with time as it happened with most of the revolutionary scientific breakthroughs. After all, it is the right of every human to have healthy offspring and it is the question of reproductive freedom and existence.
“Cat Scratch Colon” and Cecal Barotrauma perforation during colonoscopy using CO2 insufflation
Authors: Murphy Christopher John , Cox Kristen , Fang John C
Published: September 2014

Cecal perforation due to barotrauma is an increasingly recognized complication of colonoscopy when using room air for insufflation. CO2 is increasingly being utilized for insufflation due to more rapid absorption compared to ambient air and results in reduced post-procedural pain and flatulence. Use of CO2 is thought to protect against barotrauma injury, and use of CO2 during endoscopy has not previously been reported to cause barotrauma perforation during colonoscopy. We present a case of cecal perforation secondary to barotrauma during routine screening colonoscopy with CO2.
The Experiences of First-Year Music Teachers
Authors: Conway Colleen
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this literature review is to examine research focused on first-year music educators in an effort to present recommendations for preservice music teacher education and research. The three bodies of literature presented include the following: challenges faced by beginning music teachers, views of beginning music teachers concerning their preservice preparation, and beginning music teacher induction and mentoring. This comprehensive review of literature will assist researchers in determining the direction of future inquiries.
Facile synthesis and strongly microstructure-dependent electrochemical properties of graphene/manganese dioxide composites for supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Caiyun , Zhu Xiaohong , Wang Zhongxing , Sun Ping , Ren Yinjuan , Zhu Jiliang , Zhu Jianguo , Xiao Dingquan
Published: September 2014

Graphene has attracted much attention since it was firstly stripped from graphite by two physicists in 2004, and the supercapacitor based on graphene has obtained wide attention and much investment as well. For practical applications of graphene-based supercapacitors, however, there are still many challenges to solve, for instance, to simplify the technological process, to lower the fabrication cost, and to improve the electrochemical performance. In this work, graphene/MnO2 composites are prepared by a microwave sintering method, and we report here a relatively simple method for the supercapacitor packaging, i.e., dipping Ni-foam into a graphene/MnO2 composite solution directly for a period of time to coat the active material on a current collector. It is found that the microwave reaction time has a significant effect on the microstructure of graphene/MnO2 composites, and consequently, the electrochemical properties of the supercapacitors based on graphene/MnO2 composites are strongly microstructure dependent. An appropriately longer microwave reaction time, namely, 15 min, facilitates a very dense and homogeneous microstructure of the graphene/MnO2 composites, and thus, excellent electrochemical performance is achieved in the supercapacitor device, including a high specific capacitance of 296 F/g and a high capacitance retention of 93% after 3,000 times of charging/discharging cycles.

PACS

81.05.ue; 78.67.Sc; 88.80.fh
Tuning electronic and magnetic properties of partially hydrogenated graphene by biaxial tensile strain: a computational study
Authors: Song Er Hong , Ali Ghafar , Yoo Sung Ho , Jiang Qing , Cho Sung Oh
Published: September 2014

Using density functional theory calculations, we have investigated the effects of biaxial tensile strain on the electronic and magnetic properties of partially hydrogenated graphene (PHG) structures. Our study demonstrates that PHG configuration with hexagon vacancies is more energetically favorable than several other types of PHG configurations. In addition, an appropriate biaxial tensile strain can effectively tune the band gap and magnetism of the hydrogenated graphene. The band gap and magnetism of such configurations can be continuously increased when the magnitude of the biaxial tensile strain is increased. This fact that both the band gap and magnetism of partially hydrogenated graphene can be tuned by applying biaxial tensile strain provides a new pathway for the applications of graphene to electronics and photonics.
Synthesis and high sensing properties of a single Pd-doped SnO2 nanoribbon
Authors: Ma Jiang , Liu Yingkai , Zhang Heng , Ai Peng , Gong Nailiang , Zhang Ying
Published: September 2014

Monocrystal SnO2 and Pd-SnO2 nanoribbons have been successfully synthesized by thermal evaporation, and novel ethanol sensors based on a single Pd-SnO2 nanoribbon and a single SnO2 nanoribbon were fabricated. The sensing properties of SnO2 nanoribbon (SnO2 NB) and Pd-doped SnO2 nanoribbon (Pd-SnO2 NB) sensors were investigated. The results indicated that the SnO2 NB showed a high sensitivity to ethanol and the Pd-SnO2 NB has a much higher sensitivity of 4.3 at 1,000 ppm of ethanol at 230°C, which is the highest sensitivity for a SnO2-based NB. Pd-SnO2 NB can detect ethanol in a wide range of concentration (1 ~ 1,000 ppm) with a relatively quick response (recovery) time of 8 s (9 s) at a temperature from 100°C to 300°C. In the meantime, the sensing capabilities of the Pd-SnO2 NB under 1 ppm of ethanol at 230°C will help to promote the sensitivity of a single nanoribbon sensor. Excellent performances of such a sensor make it a promising candidate for a device design toward ever-shrinking dimensions because a single nanoribbon device is easily integrated in the electronic devices.
Efficiency improvement of GaN-based ultraviolet light-emitting diodes with reactive plasma deposited AlN nucleation layer on patterned sapphire substrate
Authors: Lee Chia-Yu , Tzou An-Jye , Lin Bing-Cheng , Lan Yu-Pin , Chiu Ching-Hsueh , Chi Gou-Chung , Chen Chi-Hsiang , Kuo Hao-Chung , Lin Ray-Ming , Chang Chun-Yen
Published: September 2014

The flip chip ultraviolet light-emitting diodes (FC UV-LEDs) with a wavelength of 365 nm are developed with the ex situ reactive plasma deposited (RPD) AlN nucleation layer on patterned sapphire substrate (PSS) by an atmospheric pressure metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (AP MOCVD). The ex situ RPD AlN nucleation layer can significantly reduce dislocation density and thus improve the crystal quality of the GaN epitaxial layers. Utilizing high-resolution X-ray diffraction, the full width at half maximum of the rocking curve shows that the crystalline quality of the epitaxial layer with the (RPD) AlN nucleation layer is better than that with the low-temperature GaN (LT-GaN) nucleation layer. The threading dislocation density (TDD) is estimated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which shows the reduction from 6.8 × 107 cm−2 to 2.6 × 107 cm−2. Furthermore, the light output power (LOP) of the LEDs with the RPD AlN nucleation layer has been improved up to 30 % at a forward current of 350 mA compared to that of the LEDs grown on PSS with conventional LT-GaN nucleation layer.
Modeling of SSIM-based end-to-end distortion for error-resilient video coding
Authors: Peng Qiang , Zhang Lei , Wu Xiao , Wang Qionghua
Published: September 2014

Conventional end-to-end distortion models for videos measure the overall distortion based on independent estimations of the source distortion and the channel distortion. However, they are not correlating well with the perceptual characteristics where there is a strong inter-relationship among the source distortion, the channel distortion, and the video content. As most compressed videos are represented to human users, perception-based end-to-end distortion model should be developed for error-resilient video coding. In this paper, we propose a structural similarity (SSIM)-based end-to-end distortion model to optimally estimate the content-dependent perceptual distortion due to quantization, error concealment, and error propagation. Experiments show that the proposed model brings a better visual quality for H.264/AVC video coding over packet-switched networks.
Sensitivity of S-wave attenuation to the connectivity of fractures in fluid-saturated rocks
Authors: Quintal Beatriz , Jänicke Ralf , Rubino J. Germán , Steeb Holger , Holliger Klaus
Published: September 2014

Biot’s equations of poroelasticity were solved to study the effects of fracture connectivity on S-wave attenuation caused by wave-induced fluid flow at the mesoscopic scale. The methodology was based on numerical quasistatic pure-shear experiments performed on models of water-saturated rocks containing pairs of either connected or unconnected fractures of variable inclination. Each model corresponded to a representative elementary volume of a periodic medium. Inertial terms were neglected, and hence, the observed attenuation was entirely due to wave-induced fluid flow at the mesoscopic scale. We found that when fractures are not connected, fluid flow in the embedding matrix governs S-wave attenuation, whereas fluid flow through highly permeable fractures, from one fracture into the other one, may dominate when fractures are connected. Each of these energy-dissipation phenomena has a distinct characteristic frequency, with the S-wave attenuation peak associated with flow through connected fractures occurring at higher frequencies than that associated with flow in the embedding matrix. Exploring a range of geometric arrangements of either connected or unconnected fractures at different inclinations, we also observed that the magnitude of S-wave attenuation at both characteristic frequencies shows a strong dependence on fracture inclination. For comparison, we performed quasistatic uniaxial compressibility tests to compute P-wave attenuation in the same models. We found that the attenuation patterns of S-waves tend to differ fundamentally from those of P-waves with respect to fracture inclination. The attenuation characteristics of P- and S-waves in fractured media are thus, largely complementary. With respect to fracture connectivity, we observed that S-wave attenuation tends to follow a specific pattern, indeed, more consistently than that of the P-waves. Our results point to the promising perspective of combining estimates of attenuation of P- and S-waves to infer information on fracture connectivity as well as on the effective permeability of fractured media.
Quantifying the effect of capillarity on attenuation and dispersion in patchy-saturated rocks
Authors: Qi Qiaomu , Müller Tobias M. , Gurevich Boris , Lopes Sofia , Lebedev Maxim , Caspari Eva
Published: September 2014

Waves in patchy-saturated rocks are attenuated through the mechanism of wave-induced pressure diffusion. Previous studies reveal that attenuation and phase-velocity dispersion depend on the fluid patch size and distribution. These patch characteristics in turn can be influenced by capillary forces. The effect of capillarity on wave attenuation in patchy-saturated rocks is not fully understood. We studied the combined effects of wave-induced pressure diffusion and capillarity on acoustic signatures. To do so we made use of the concept of patch membrane stiffness as a macroscopic expression of capillarity. We incorporated the membrane stiffness into the continuous random media model of patchy saturation. The membrane stiffness is associated with a pressure discontinuity at patch interfaces. This pressure discontinuity impedes wave-induced pressure diffusion and, therefore, reduces wave attenuation. Conversely, the phase velocity increases due to additional capillarity reinforcement. We applied this capillarity-extended random media model to interpret velocity-saturation relations (VSR) and attenuation-saturation relations (ASR) retrieved from an ultrasonically monitored core flooding experiment. Because the fluid distribution is approximately known from accompanying computerized tomographic images, all but one required model input parameters can be inferred. The elusive input parameter is a shape factor quantifying the geometric irregularity of the pore channels. We found, however, that the experimental data can be consistently modeled only if the capillarity effect is accounted for. The results suggested that wave-induced fluid-pressure diffusion at mesoscopic patches in conjunction with capillary action can have important implications for interpreting ultrasonic VSR and ASR in patchy-saturated rocks.
Phosphoinositide 3-kinase p85beta regulates invadopodium formation
Authors: Cariaga-Martínez Ariel E. , Cortés Isabel , García Esther , Pérez-García Vicente , Pajares María J. , Idoate Miguel A. , Redondo-Muñóz Javier , Antón Inés M. , Carrera Ana C.
Published: September 2014

The acquisition of invasiveness is characteristic of tumor progression. Numerous genetic changes are associated with metastasis, but the mechanism by which a cell becomes invasive remains unclear. Expression of p85β, a regulatory subunit of phosphoinositide-3-kinase, markedly increases in advanced carcinoma, but its mode of action is unknown. We postulated that p85β might facilitate cell invasion. We show that p85β localized at cell adhesions in complex with focal adhesion kinase and enhanced stability and maturation of cell adhesions. In addition, p85β induced development at cell adhesions of an F-actin core that extended several microns into the cell z-axis resembling the skeleton of invadopodia. p85β lead to F-actin polymerization at cell adhesions by recruiting active Cdc42/Rac at these structures. In accordance with p85β function in invadopodium-like formation, p85β levels increased in metastatic melanoma and p85β depletion reduced invadopodium formation and invasion. These results show that p85β enhances invasion by inducing cell adhesion development into invadopodia-like structures explaining the metastatic potential of tumors with increased p85β levels.
rpS6 regulates blood-testis barrier dynamics via its effects on MMP-9 mediated by Akt signaling
Authors: Mok Ka-Wai , Mruk Dolores D. , Cheng C. Yan
Published: September 2014

mTORC1 is an emerging regulator of blood-tissue barrier (BTB) utilizing rpS6 as the downstream signaling molecule. To explore the role of rpS6 in BTB function, a constitutively active rpS6 phosphomimetic mutant was constructed and overexpressed in Sertoli cells cultured in vitro that mimicked the BTB in vivo. Using this phosphomimetic mutant, p-rpS6 was shown to disrupt the IGF-1/insulin signaling, thereby abolishing the Akt phosphorylation which led to an induction of MMP-9. This increase in MMP-9 secretion perturbed the Sertoli cell tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier via a down-regulation of TJ-proteins at the BTB mediated by proteolysis. These findings were confirmed by the use of a specific MMP-9 inhibitor which blocked the rpS6 mutant-induced TJ-permeability barrier disruption. Additionally, the use of RNAi for Akt silencing was able to mimic the results rpS6 mutant overexpression in Sertoli cells, further confirming this p-rpS6-Akt-MMP-9 signaling pathway. In short, these data support a new concept on mTORC1-mediated BTB regulation, plausibly applicable to other blood-tissue barriers.
Robotics: the automatic choice for pathology?
Authors: Jones Peter
Published: September 2014

This article shows how automating pathology functions can bring real benefits to trusts.
Meeting identified needs: Innovation in practice, part 1
Authors: Sherwin Sarah , Ruddy Jacqueline , Dewar Emma , Walsh Frances
Published: September 2014

Being able to assess the health needs of children and young people and deliver appropriate health interventions in line with current policy is a central principle of school nursing practice. This series of articles looks at ideas and projects that have been developed by SCPHN School Nursing students.
Delivering sex and relationships education in primary schools
Authors: Simpson Audrey
Published: September 2014

Audrey Simpson talks about the importance of delivering accurate informative and sex and relationships education to children at an early age, and introduces a new online resource.
Planting flowers on colder days
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: September 2014

Offering a wide range of learning opportunities, bulbs can bring a glimmer of hope to a long winter. Find out how to make the most of these beautiful flowers in your setting.
Activities to sample and relish
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: September 2014

In this extract from Planning for Learning Through the Senses [Practical Pre-School Books] we explore activities, based on the early learning goals: this month, we focus on taste.
Effect of smoking in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: van Vugt-van Pinxteren MWJ , Jong DJ de
Published: September 2014

Aim

To examine the effects of current smoking status on disease characteristics in patients with Crohn's disease (CD).

Method

CD patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire about their smoking habits. Their disease characteristics were obtained from medical records.

Results

The questionnaires were sent to 614 CD patients, and 263 completed the questionnaire. Of them, 252 were included in the statistical analysis. Compared to respondents who never smoked, current smokers had a trend toward the use of more tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-inhibitors, being diagnosed with fistulas, and undergoing bowel surgery more often. Eighty-percent of current smokers were willing to quit smoking.

Conclusion

The authors found significant differences in the development of fistulas and having bowel surgery in smokers compared with patients who stopped smoking. No differences were found in the use of TNF-inhibitors. Moreover, the proportion of patients willing to quit smoking was high. Therefore, programmes supporting patients to quit smoking may be advocated.
Vesiculobullous disorders affecting the oral cavity
Authors: Shephard Martina , Hodgson Tim , Hegarty Anne M
Published: September 2014

Vesiculobullous disorders of the oral cavity managed by oral medicine specialists include erythema multiforme, pemphigus vulgaris, paraneoplastic pemphigus and mucous membrane pemphigoid. These conditions can have significant effects on quality of life and potentially serious sequelae if not identified early.
Developing and harnessing the leadership potential of doctors in training
Authors: Till Alex , Pettifer Graeme , O'Sullivan Helen , McKimm Judy
Published: September 2014

This article considers existing leadership approaches operating within health-care organizations and why and how these should be reviewed to harness the leadership potential of doctors in training through engaging in quality improvement.
Research roundup: September 2014
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: September 2014

In brief

▪ Statins appear to reduce the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, but not colon cancer ▪ Study finds increased risk of breast cancer from some newer contraceptive pills ▪ Use of inhaled corticosteroids suppresses growth during the year after children start regular treatment ▪ Regular or as-needed paracetamol does not speed up recovery from acute low-back pain ▪ Funding for research into antibiotic resistance is inadequate in the UK
Prescribing malaria chemoprophylaxis
Authors: Gawthrop Mary
Published: September 2014

Malaria is a preventable, life-threatening disease spread by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. Anyone visiting an area where malaria is endemic can become infected regardless of age, sex or background. Therefore, it is essential that travellers are given advice on the prevention of malaria, including the importance of avoiding bites. This article provides an overview of malaria prophylaxis prescribing for nurses, including information on prescribing for patients with specific medical conditions.
Parkinson's disease: a guide for care staff
Authors: Walsh Kieran , Bennett Gerry
Published: September 2014

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder of the nervous system. It is caused by a deficiency of the neurotransmitter dopamine in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. This lack of dopamine is responsible for the clinical presentation of Parkinson's disease and is the rationale for drug treatment.

The disease can cause a profound deterioration in a patients health and quality of life as well as severe social and financial problems. Mortality is two to five times as high among affected persons as among age-matched controls, resulting in a marked decrease in life expectancy (Morens et al, 1996).
Structural and Magnetic Properties of Mo-Zn Substituted (BaFe12-4xMoxZn3xO19) M-type Hexaferrites
Authors: Mahmood S , Aloqaily A , Maswadeh Y , Awadallah A , Bsoul I , Juwhari H
Published: September 2014

Molybdenum-zinc substituted hexaferrites were synthesized by high-energy ball milling and subsequent sintering at different temperatures (1100, 1200, and 1300° C). The samples sintered at 1100° C exhibited good hard magnetic properties, although a decrease in saturation magnetization from 70.2 emu/g for the unsubstituted sample down to 57 emu/g for the sample with x = 0.3 was observed. The drop in saturation magnetization results mainly from the presence of secondary nonmagnetic oxides. The samples sintered at temperatures ≥1200° C showed an improvement in saturation magnetization, and a sharp drop in coercivith. This behavior was associated with the development of the W-type hexaferrite, the particle growth, and possibly the spin reorientation transition from easy-axis to easy-plane.
Performance and Thermal Analysis of Aluminium Oxide Filled Epoxy Composite as TIM for LEDs
Authors: Jamaludin Nur , Anithambigai P , Shanmugan S , Mutharasu D
Published: September 2014

Al2O3powder with various particle sizes was prepared by milling process and mixed together with epoxy resin in order to increase the thermal conductivity of resin and decrease the junction temperature of the LEDs. Al2O3 powder filled epoxy resin was applied as thermal interface material (TIM) for an effective system level analysis of thermal transient measurement. The result depicted that the milled Al2O3 powder for 3 hour powder showed the highest thermal conductivity and hence lower in thermal resistance of LED. Moreover, the driving currents also influence the thermal resistance and achieved low thermal resistance when measured at 350mA. The thermal properties of the sample were tested using t3ster. The surface morphology of the samples was tested using FESEM.
Method Development and Validation for The Simultaneous Estimation of Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime Proxetil by Using RP-HPLC in Combined Tablet Dosage Form
Authors: Spandana Kole , Rathnakar Ch. , Bhavana Kole
Published: September 2014

An isocratic, reversed phase-liquid-chromatographic method was developed for the quantitative determination of Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime proxetil in combined-dosage form. Alliance -Waters System with Agilant Zorbax Eclipse XBD-C8, (150mm×4.6; 5µm) column with mobile phase containing water with Ortho phosphoric acid: Methanol in the ratio of (80: 20, v/v) was used. The flow rate was 0.5 ml/min, column temperature was 40°C and effluents were monitored at 270 nm. The retention times of Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime proxetil were 3.096min and 4.559min, respectively. The correlation co-efficient for Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime proxetil was found to be 1.0 and 1.0, respectively. The proposed method was validated with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, specificity, and robustness. Recovery of Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime proxetil in formulations was found to be in the range of 97-103% and 97-103% respectively confirms the non-interferences of the excipients in the formulation. Due to its simplicity, rapidness and high precision. The method was successfully applied for the estimation of Levofloxacin and Cefpodoxime proxetil in combined dosage form.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some Transition Metal complexes with N-phenyl-N’-[substituted phenyl] Thiourea
Authors: Shadab Mohd. , Aslam Mohammad
Published: September 2014

A series of thiourea ligand , N-N'- diphenyl thiourea [I] [DPTH], N-phenyl-N'-[2-phenoyl] thiourea [II] [PPTH], N-phenyl-N'-[2-chlorophenyl] thiourea III [PCPTH], N-phenyl-N'- [5-chloro-2-methyl phenyl] thiourea IV [PCMPTH] and N- phenyl -N'-(5-chloro-2-methoxy phenyl) thiourea V (PCMTPTH) and their transition metal complexes of the type ML2 and ML2 Cl2 have been synthesized by reacting phenyl isothiocyanate with substituted aniline and transition metal salts. These newly synthesized ligands and their complexes were characterized by elemental and spectral studies. Based upon these studies it was revealed that in all the cases metal is coordinated through suphur group of thioamide of ligands. In case of nickel complexes, the nickel is coordinated to both oxygen and sulphur. In all the complexes metal is tetra coordinated forming a square planer geometry.
Preparation of Nanocellulose: A Review
Authors: Islam Mohammad Tajul , Alam Mohammad Mahbubul , Patrucco Alessia , Montarsolo Alessio , Zoccola Marina
Published: September 2014

The development of nanocellulose has attracted significant interest in the last few decades due to its unique and potentially useful features. Novel nanocelluloses boost the strongly expanding field of sustainable materials and nanocomposites. Their potential areas of application include reinforcing agents in nanocomposites, paper, biodegradable films, barriers for packaging, stabilizing agents in dispersions for technical films and membranes, additives in food, texturing agents in cosmetics, and medical devices such as wound dressings and bioactive implants. This review organizes current knowledge on the isolation of microfibrillated and nanofibrillated cellulose from plant sources. Details of the extraction of fibrils from cellulose are reviewed. In addition, the terms cellulose “microfiber” and cellulose “nanofiber” are formally defined and distinguished.
Cotton Fiber Moisture Measurements: A Comparative Evaluation
Authors: Rodgers James , Fortier Chanel , Kang Sho Yeung , Montalvo Joseph , Von Hoven Terri
Published: September 2014

A commonly-used standard method for measuring cotton fiber moisture is the oven-drying method (moisture content equal weight loss). However, several commercial instruments are available for measuring fiber moisture content. A comparative evaluation program was implemented to determine the capabilities of laboratory moisture instrumentation/methods and to develop a standard format to quickly compare different units (logistical and technical attributes). Fifteen instruments were evaluated and compared to an oven-drying (reference) method. The best measurement agreements to the reference method were obtained for most small oven analyzers and near-infrared (NIR) analyzers, with few outliers and low residuals. A comprehensive comparative matrix was developed to assist the user decision-making process for selecting the best overall instrument to meet their fiber moisture measurement needs.
Laboratory medicine in the European Union
Authors: Oosterhuis Wytze P. , Zerah Simone
Published: September 2014

The profession of laboratory medicine differs between countries within the European Union (EU) in many respects. The objective of professional organizations of the promotion of mutual recognition of specialists within the EU is closely related to the free movement of people. This policy translates to equivalence of standards and harmonization of the training curriculum. The aim of the present study is the description of the organization and practice of laboratory medicine within the countries that constitute the EU. A questionnaire covering many aspects of the profession was sent to delegates of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) and Union Européenne de Médecins Spécialistes (UEMS) of the 28 EU countries. Results were sent to the delegates for confirmation. Many differences between countries were identified: predominantly medical or scientific professionals; a broad or limited professional field of interest; inclusion of patient treatment; formal or absent recognition; a regulated or absent formal training program; general or minor application of a quality system based on ISO Norms. The harmonization of the postgraduate training of both clinical chemists and of laboratory physicians has been a goal for many years. Differences in the organization of the laboratory professions still exist in the respective countries which all have a long historical development with their own rationality. It is an important challenge to harmonize our profession, and difficult choices will need to be made. Recent developments with respect to the directive on Recognition of Professional Qualifications call for new initiatives to harmonize laboratory medicine both across national borders, and across the borders of scientific and medical professions.
A Piecewise Solution to the Reconfiguration Problem by a Minimal Spanning Tree Algorithm
Authors: Ramirez Juan M. , Montoya Diana P.
Published: September 2014

This paper proposes a minimal spanning tree (MST) algorithm to solve the networks’ reconfiguration problem in radial distribution systems (RDS). The paper focuses on power losses’ reduction by selecting the best radial configuration. The reconfiguration problem is a non-differentiable and highly combinatorial optimization problem. The proposed methodology is a deterministic Kruskal’s algorithm based on graph theory, which is appropriate for this application generating only a feasible radial topology. The proposed MST algorithm has been tested on an actual RDS, which has been split into subsystems.
The effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Cannabis Sativa on appetite hormone in rat
Authors: Mazidi Mohsen , Baghban Taraghdari Sara , Rezaee Peyman , Kamgar Maryam , Jomezadeh Mohammad Reza , Akbarieh Hasani Omid , Soukhtanloo Mohammad , Hosseini Mahmoud , Gholamnezhad Zahra , Rakhshandeh Hassan , Norouzy Abdolreza , Esmaily Habibollah , Patterson Michael , Nematy Mohsen
Published: September 2014

Background: Ghrelin is an orexigenic peptide which is secreted from stomach. Cannabis sativa is known as an orexigenic herb in Iranian traditional medicine. Little evidence is published about its effect on energy intake and its mechanism. In the current study, the possible effect of hydroalcoholic extract of C. sativa on appetite and ghrelin is evaluated.

Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups. Two control groups were selected, the first group received 0.5 mL water per day (vehicle group) and another group did not receive anything (control group). The other three groups were treated daily with 50, 100 or 150 mg/kg of C. sativa for 7 days, respectively. Daily energy intake of the rats was calculated for 10 days prior to the> intervention and for the 7 day intervention. To investigate changes in plasma ghrelin as a potential mechanism, an orexigenic dose (150 mg/kg) of C. sativa or distilled water (vehicle) was fed to two separate groups of six rats by gavage. Total ghrelin levels in plasma were measured for 3 h post-gavage.

Results: There was no significant difference in energy intake between control and vehicle groups. Treatment with 100 and 150 mg/kg of the extract significantly increased energy intake vs the other groups (p<0.05). Total ghrelin levels were significantly elevated in the C. sativa group vs vehicle 30 and 60 min post-gavage.

Conclusions: This study showed that C. sativa had both positive and dose-related effects on appetite of rats. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the orexigenic effect of this plant in human.
Analysis of Different Harmonic and Intermodulation Distortions for CATV Systems
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Kamaljit Singh Bhatia , Anurag Sharma , Kaur Harsimrat
Published: September 2014

In this paper, after examining all the basic design issues of CATV systems, prominent distortions like harmonic and intermodulation distortions are taken into account for different order. Besides outer distortions for CATV sources, inner distortion of relative intensity to noise is disabled for current analysis.
Towards an Analytical Model of Military Effectiveness for the Early Modern Period: the Military Dynamics of the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion
Authors: Szechi Daniel
Published: September 2014

Early modern European rebellions have long been of interest to military historians, yet, with the exception of the 1745 rebellion led by Charles Edward Stuart, the military history of the Jacobite rebellions against the English/British state is little known outside the Anglophone world. Likewise, though there have been many analyses of particular rebellions no analytical model of rebel military capabilities has hitherto been proposed, and thus meaningful comparisons between early modern rebellions located in different regions and different eras has been difficult. This article accordingly offers an analysis of the military effectiveness of the Jacobite rebels in 1715-16 structured by a model adapted from the ›Military Effectiveness‹ framework first advanced by Allan Millett and Williamson Murray. This is with a view to stimulating military-historical interest in Jacobite rebellions other than the ’45, and promoting more systematic discussion of the military effectiveness of early modern European rebel armies.
Nitric oxide synthase in hypoxic or ischemic brain injury
Authors: Liu Haiting , Li Jiao , Zhao Fengyan , Wang Huiqing , Qu Yi , Mu Dezhi
Published: September 2014

Hypoxic or ischemic stress causes many serious brain injuries, including stroke and neonatal hypoxia ischemia encephalopathy. During brain hypoxia ischemia processes, nitric oxide (NO) may play either a neurotoxic or a neuroprotective role, depending upon factors such as the NO synthase (NOS) isoform, the cell type by which NO is produced, and the temporal stage after the onset of the hypoxic ischemic brain injury. Excessive NO production can be neurotoxic, leading to cascade reactions of excitotoxicity, inflammation, apoptosis, and deteriorating primary brain injury. In contrast, NO produced by endothelial NOS plays a neuroprotective role by maintaining cerebral blood flow and preventing neuronal injury, as well as inhibiting platelet and leukocyte adhesion. Sometimes, NO-derived inducible NOS and neuronal NOS in special areas may also play neuroprotective roles. Therefore, this review summarizes the different roles and the regulation of the three NOS isoforms in hypoxic or ischemic brain injury as revealed in research in recent years, focusing on the neurotoxic role of the three NOS isoforms involved in mechanisms of hypoxic or ischemic brain injury.
Shigella flexneri targets the HP1γ subcode through the phosphothreonine lyase OspF
Authors: Harouz Habiba , Rachez Christophe , Meijer Benoit M , Marteyn Benoit , Donnadieu Françoise , Cammas Florence , Muchardt Christian , Sansonetti Philippe , Arbibe Laurence
Published: September 2014

HP1 proteins are transcriptional regulators that, like histones, are targets for post‐translational modifications defining an HP1‐mediated subcode. HP1γ has multiple phosphorylation sites, including serine 83 (S83) that marks it to sites of active transcription. In a guinea pig model for Shigella enterocolitis, we observed that the defective type III secretion mxiD Shigella flexneri strain caused more HP1γ phosphorylation in the colon than the wild‐type strain. Shigella interferes with HP1 phosphorylation by injecting the phospholyase OspF. This effector interacts with HP1γ and alters its phosphorylation at S83 by inactivating ERK and consequently MSK1, a downstream kinase. MSK1 that here arises as a novel HP1γ kinase, phosphorylates HP1γ at S83 in the context of an MSK1‐HP1γ complex, and thereby favors its accumulation on its target genes. Genome‐wide transcriptome analysis reveals that this mechanism is linked to up‐regulation of proliferative gene and fine‐tuning of immune gene expression. Thus, in addition to histones, bacteria control host transcription by modulating the activity of HP1 proteins, with potential implications in transcriptional reprogramming at the mucosal barrier.
Oropharyngeal Dermoid Cyst in an Infant with Intermittent Airway Obstruction
Authors: Wagner Matthias W. , Haileselassie Bereketeab , Kannan Sujatha , Chen Cynthia , Poretti Andrea , Tunkel David E. , Huisman Thierry A.G.M.
Published: September 2014

Dermoid cysts are benign epithelial inclusions and cystic lesions that may occur in several locations including the oropharynx. We describe the case of a two-month-old baby girl who presented with progressive respiratory distress, hypoxemia, and feeding difficulties because of an oropharyngeal dermoid cyst. The child had an airway work-up that included laryngoscopy. However, the mass remained undetected. This is most likely explained by the mobile nature of the lesion, prolapsing into the high nasopharynx in supine position. In our patient, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), initially performed to rule out brainstem pathology, revealed an oropharyngeal dermoid cyst. This case shows the potential role of neuroimaging in the diagnostic work-up of a young child presenting with respiratory distress by excluding a central nervous system lesion and diagnosing an “unexpected” nasopharyngeal mass lesion. In addition, MRI allowed exclusion of skull base lesions of neural origin such as an anterior meningoencephalocele or heterotopic neuroglial tissue which would be managed differently from pharyngeal masses.
Genetic Interactions Between Shox2 and Hox Genes During the Regional Growth and Development of the Mouse Limb
Authors: Neufeld Stanley J , Wang Fan , Cobb John
Published: September 2014

The growth and development of the vertebrate limb relies on homeobox genes of the Hox and Shox families, with their independent mutation often giving dose-dependent effects. Here we investigate whether Shox2 and Hox genes function together during mouse limb development by modulating their relative dosage and examining the limb for nonadditive effects on growth. Using double mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in single embryos, we first show that Shox2 and Hox genes have associated spatial expression dynamics, with Shox2 expression restricted to the proximal limb along with Hoxd9 and Hoxa11 expression, juxtaposing the distal expression of Hoxa13 and Hoxd13. By generating mice with all possible dosage combinations of mutant Shox2 alleles and HoxA/D cluster deletions, we then show that their coordinated proximal limb expression is critical to generate normally proportioned limb segments. These epistatic interactions tune limb length, where Shox2 underexpression enhances, and Shox2 overexpression suppresses, Hox-mutant phenotypes. Disruption of either Shox2 or Hox genes leads to a similar reduction in Runx2 expression in the developing humerus, suggesting their concerted action drives cartilage maturation during normal development. While we furthermore provide evidence that Hox gene function influences Shox2 expression, this regulation is limited in extent and is unlikely on its own to be a major explanation for their genetic interaction. Given the similar effect of human SHOX mutations on regional limb growth, Shox and Hox genes may generally function as genetic interaction partners during the growth and development of the proximal vertebrate limb.
Msh4 and Msh5 Function in SC-Independent Chiasma Formation During the Streamlined Meiosis ofTetrahymena
Authors: Shodhan Anura , Lukaszewicz Agnieszka , Novatchkova Maria , Loidl Josef
Published: September 2014

ZMM proteins have been defined in budding yeast as factors that are collectively involved in the formation of interfering crossovers (COs) and synaptonemal complexes (SCs), and they are a hallmark of the predominant meiotic recombination pathway of most organisms. In addition to this so-called class I CO pathway, a minority of crossovers are formed by a class II pathway, which involves the Mus81-Mms4 endonuclease complex. This is the only CO pathway in the SC-less meiosis of the fission yeast. ZMM proteins (including SC components) were always found to be co-occurring and hence have been regarded as functionally linked. Like the fission yeast, the protist Tetrahymena thermophila does not possess a SC, and its COs are dependent on Mus81-Mms4. Here we show that the ZMM proteins Msh4 and Msh5 are required for normal chiasma formation, and we propose that they have a pro-CO function outside a canonical class I pathway in Tetrahymena. Thus, the two-pathway model is not tenable as a general rule.
Bacterial Prevalence and Antimicrobial Prescribing Trends for Acute Respiratory Tract Infections
Authors: Kronman Matthew P. , Zhou Chuan , Mangione-Smith Rita
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Antimicrobials are frequently prescribed for acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI), although many are viral. We aimed to determine bacterial prevalence rates for 5 common childhood ARTI - acute otitis media (AOM), sinusitis, bronchitis, upper respiratory tract infection, and pharyngitis- and to compare these rates to nationally representative antimicrobial prescription rates for these ARTI.

METHODS:

We performed (1) a meta-analysis of English language pediatric studies published between 2000 and 2011 in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library to determine ARTI bacterial prevalence rates; and (2) a retrospective cohort analysis of children age <18 years evaluated in ambulatory clinics sampled by the 2000–2010 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) to determine estimated US ARTI antimicrobial prescribing rates.

RESULTS:

From the meta-analysis, the AOM bacterial prevalence was 64.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 50.5%–77.7%); Streptococcus pyogenes prevalence during pharyngitis was 20.2% (95% CI, 15.9%–25.2%). No URI or bronchitis studies met inclusion criteria, and 1 sinusitis study met inclusion criteria, identifying bacteria in 78% of subjects. Based on these condition-specific bacterial prevalence rates, the expected antimicrobial rescribing rate for ARTI overall was 27.4% (95% CI, 26.5%–28.3%). However, antimicrobial agents were prescribed in NAMCS during 56.9% (95% CI, 50.8%–63.1%) of ARTI encounters, representing an estimated 11.4 million potentially preventable antimicrobial prescriptions annually.

CONCLUSIONS:

An estimated 27.4% of US children who have ARTI have bacterial illness in the post-pneumococcal conjugate vaccine era. Antimicrobials are prescribed almost twice as often as expected during outpatient ARTI visits, representing an important target for ongoing antimicrobial stewardship interventions.