bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boundary Layer Development in Axial Compressors and Turbines: Part 1 of 4 — Composite Picture
Authors: Halstead David E. , Wisler David C. , Okiishi Theodore H. , Walker Gregory J. , Hodson Howard P. , Shin Hyoun-Woo
Published: February 2015

Comprehensive experiments and computational analyses were conducted to understand boundary layer development on airfoil surfaces in multistage, axial-flow compressors and LP turbines. The tests were run over a broad range of Reynolds numbers and loading levels in large, low-speed research facilities which simulate the relevant aerodynamic features of modern engine components. Measurements of boundary layer characteristics were obtained by using arrays of densely packed, hot-film gauges mounted on airfoil surfaces and by making boundary layer surveys with hot wire probes. Computational predictions were made using both steady flow codes and an unsteady flow code. This is the first time that time-resolved boundary layer measurements and detailed comparisons of measured data with predictions of boundary layer codes have been reported for multistage compressor and turbine blading.

Part 1 of this paper draws a composite picture of boundary layer development in turbomachinery based upon a synthesis of all of our experimental findings for the compressor and turbine. Parts 2 and 3 present the experimental results for the compressor and turbine, respectively. Part 4 presents computational analyses and discusses comparisons with experimental data.

For both compressor and turbine blading, the experimental results show large extents of laminar and transitional flow on the suction surface of embedded stages, with the boundary layer generally developing along two distinct but coupled paths. One path lies approximately under the wake trajectory while the other lies between wakes. Along both paths the boundary layer clearly goes from laminar to transitional to turbulent. The wake path and the non-wake path are coupled by a calmed region which, being generated by turbulent spots produced in the wake path, is effective in suppressing flow separation and delaying transition in the non-wake path. The location and strength of the various regions within the paths, such as wake-induced transitional and turbulent strips, vary with Reynolds number, loading level and turbulence intensity. On the pressure surface, transition takes place near the leading edge for the blading tested. For both surfaces, bypass transition and separated-flow transition were observed. Classical Tollmien-Schlichting transition did not play a significant role. Comparisons of embedded and first-stage results were also made to assess the relevance of applying single-stage and cascade studies to the multistage environment.

Although doing well under certain conditions, the codes in general could not adequately predict the onset and extent of transition in regions affected by calming. However, assessments are made to guide designers in using current predictive schemes to compute boundary layer features and obtain reasonable loss predictions.
Association of Shifting Populations in the Root Zone Microbiome of Millet with Enhanced Crop Productivity in the Sahel Region (Africa)
Authors: Debenport Spencer J. , Assigbetse Komi , Bayala Roger , Chapuis-Lardy Lydie , Dick Richard P. , McSpadden Gardener Brian B.
Published: February 2015

This study characterized specific changes in the millet root zone microbiome stimulated by long-term woody-shrub intercropping at different sites in Senegal. At the two study sites, intercropping with woody shrubs and shrub residue resulted in a significant increase in millet [
Pennisetum glaucum
(L.) R. Br.] yield (
P
< 0.05) and associated patterns of increased diversity in both bacterial and fungal communities in the root zone of the crop. Across four experiments, operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to
Chitinophaga
were consistently significantly (
P
< 0.001) enriched in the intercropped samples, and “
Candidatus
Koribacter” was consistently significantly enriched in samples where millet was grown alone. Those OTUs belonging to
Chitinophaga
were enriched more than 30-fold in residue-amended samples and formed a distinct subgroup from all OTUs detected in the genus. Additionally, OTUs belonging to 8 fungal genera (
Aspergillus
,
Coniella
,
Epicoccum
,
Fusarium
,
Gibberella
,
Lasiodiplodia
,
Penicillium
, and
Phoma
) were significantly (
P
< 0.005) enriched in all experiments at all sites in intercropped samples. The OTUs of four genera (
Epicoccum
,
Fusarium
,
Gibberella
, and
Haematonectria
) were consistently enriched at sites where millet was grown alone. Those enriched OTUs in intercropped samples showed consistently large-magnitude differences, ranging from 30- to 1,000-fold increases in abundance. Consistently enriched OTUs in intercropped samples in the genera
Aspergillus
,
Fusarium
, and
Penicillium
also formed phylogenetically distinct subgroups. These results suggest that the intercropping system used here can influence the recruitment of potentially beneficial microorganisms to the root zone of millet and aid subsistence farmers in producing higher-yielding crops.
High-Throughput Microfluidic Method To Study Biofilm Formation and Host-Pathogen Interactions in Pathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Tremblay Yannick D. N. , Vogeleer Philippe , Jacques Mario , Harel Josée
Published: February 2015

Biofilm formation and host-pathogen interactions are frequently studied using multiwell plates; however, these closed systems lack shear force, which is present at several sites in the host, such as the intestinal and urinary tracts. Recently, microfluidic systems that incorporate shear force and very small volumes have been developed to provide cell biology models that resemble
in vivo
conditions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if the BioFlux 200 microfluidic system could be used to study host-pathogen interactions and biofilm formation by pathogenic
Escherichia coli
. Strains of various pathotypes were selected to establish the growth conditions for the formation of biofilms in the BioFlux 200 system on abiotic (glass) or biotic (eukaryotic-cell) surfaces. Biofilm formation on glass was observed for the majority of strains when they were grown in M9 medium at 30°C but not in RPMI medium at 37°C. In contrast, HRT-18 cell monolayers enhanced binding and, in most cases, biofilm formation by pathogenic
E. coli
in RPMI medium at 37°C. As a proof of principle, the biofilm-forming ability of a diffusely adherent
E. coli
mutant strain lacking AIDA-I, a known mediator of attachment, was assessed in our models. In contrast to the parental strain, which formed a strong biofilm, the mutant formed a thin biofilm on glass or isolated clusters on HRT-18 monolayers. In conclusion, we describe a microfluidic method for high-throughput screening that could be used to identify novel factors involved in
E. coli
biofilm formation and host-pathogen interactions under shear force.
Teary eyes due to 21 pence?
Authors: Wong Phui Yee , Charn Tze Choong , Ismail Andre , Tatla Taran
Published: February 2015

A woman in her late 70s with chronic bilateral epiphora under ophthalmology review was referred to our department for dacryocystorhinostomy after punctoplasty and detection of nasolacrimal duct obstruction. A CT scan of the paranasal sinuses for preoperative planning revealed complete opacification of the right maxillary, anterior ethmoid, frontal and sphenoid sinuses, left septal deviation and an incidental finding of foreign bodies in the right anterior nasal airspace. She proceeded with functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and removal of foreign bodies. To our surprise, a partially eroded 20 pence and 1 penny coin were found and removed from her right nasal airway. There was no history given about foreign bodies in her nose. Her symptoms improved postoperatively.
Proximal fibular stress fractures in children and adolescents, what should we rely on? Lessons learned from a case
Authors: Aguiar Ramos de Pina Carlos , Balacó Inês , Ruas Serrano Pedro , Matos Gabriel
Published: February 2015

Fibula fractures are the third most common stress fractures in children and adolescents. The triad of localised periosteal reaction, endosteal thickening and radiolucent cortical lines, localised in the distal third of the fibula along with a typical clinical history is in most cases sufficient to establish the diagnosis. Proximal fibula stress lesions are a very rare finding, with few reports in the literature. Stress fractures in this location demand careful investigation before a definitive diagnosis can be made. In the presence of non-specific MRI findings, stress fracture should be a diagnosis of exclusion. The authors report a case referred to their department by a sports medicine physician with a suspicion of stress fracture of the proximal fibula without characteristic imaging findings, which was ultimately confirmed as a stress lesion only by biopsy.
An unusual association of Ménétrier's disease with a gastric bezoar
Authors: Anandpara Karan Manoj , Aswani Yashant , Hira Priya
Published: February 2015

Ménétrier’s disease is a rare protein-losing hypertrophic gastroenteropathy. While it still remains a medical curiosity, infection with Cytomegalovirus andHelicobacter pylori, and hormonal, congenital, dietary and neurogenic factors have been postulated as causative factors. We describe a case of a 14-year boy who presented with epigastric discomfort, vomiting, inability to gain weight and pedal oedema. Investigations revealed hypoproteinaemia without proteinuria and elevated faecal α-1-antitrypsin levels suggestive of protein-losing enteropathy. Imaging and endoscopic features demonstrated cerebriform gastric folds indicative of Ménétrier’s disease. Infective, hormonal and neurogenic causes were ruled out in our patient. Surprisingly, the patient had a history of pica and an associated large gastric bezoar, which was ultimately removed surgically. An association of Ménétrier’s disease with a bezoar has been reported only once previously. We thus add to the existing literature and highlight the plausible role of a bezoar as a causative factor in the pathogenesis of Ménétrier’s disease due to its irritant nature.
Improving care for victims of violence in resource-poor settings such as Lusaka, Zambia: results of a low-budget intervention
Authors: Schober Michael , Mtonga Robert , Valenti Maria , Hametner Stephanie
Published: February 2015

Health professionals from Zambia and Austria conducted a low-cost intervention in Lusaka, Zambia, intended to improve care outcomes for victims of interpersonal violence (IPEV). It was designed to build on existing health and social services infrastructures. During 1 year, 174 victims of IPEV seen at the Lusaka University Hospital emergency room were interviewed by medical students. An intervention included training for medical and social service personnel and distribution at key locations of printed materials on services available to IPEV victims. Postintervention data analysis revealed that victims of IPEV had improved understanding of available social services, and victims’ confidence was increased about receiving additional help and articulating health concerns. Other benefits: improved visibility, networking among partner organisations; new descriptive data about IPEV victims; improved cross-cultural understanding among medical participants. Recommendation: low-cost interventions should continue to be explored to improve care for victims of IPEV in resource-poor settings.
Implementation of an all-ages mandatory helmet policy for ice skating
Authors: Thibault-Halman Ginette , Fenerty Lynne , Wheadon-Hore Kathie , Walling Simon , Cusimano Michael D , Clarke David B
Published: February 2015

Ice skaters sustain a significant number of head injuries each winter. We are the first to implement an all-ages helmet policy at a university-based Canadian arena. We report our experience from a cross-sectional observational study as well as the policy's consequences on helmet use and skating participation. Educational programming was provided prior to policy implementation. Observations of helmet use, falls and skater demographics were conducted prior to education/implementation and after policy implementation. The number of skaters observed was essentially unchanged by the policy; 361 skaters were observed pre-implementation, while 358 were observed post-implementation during the same number of observation-hours. Pre-implementation, helmet use ranged from 97% among children under 12 to 10% among adults; post-implementation use in all skaters was 99%. Falls were observed among all age groups, with preponderance among those aged 4–12. An all-ages helmet policy was successful both in achieving helmet use among all skaters and in maintaining participation rates.
Acupuncture in the Postoperative Setting for Breast Cancer Patients: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Mallory Molly J. , Croghan Katrina A. , Sandhu Nicole P. , Lemaine Valerie , Degnim Amy C. , Bauer Brent A. , Cha Stephen S. , Croghan Ivana T.
Published: February 2015

Acupuncture is used to treat a variety of symptoms and conditions associated with cancer and cancer treatments. The present study was performed to evaluate the feasibility of providing acupuncture in the hospital setting for breast cancer patients and to evaluate the short-term effect of acupuncture on stress, anxiety, and pain. This was an open label study conducted at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Methodist and Saint Marys Campus, Rochester, Minnesota. A total of 20 adult breast cancer patients undergoing mastectomy and/or breast reconstruction were recruited and offered daily acupuncture intervention beginning postoperative day 1 and continuing for the duration of the hospital stay. Outcome measures included the Symptom Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Satisfaction Question and Was-it-Worth-it (WIWI) Questionnaire. It was found that acupuncture is a feasible option for postoperative breast cancer patients. In addition, it can significantly decrease the levels of anxiety (p = 0.0065), tension/muscular discomfort (p < 0.001) and pain (p = 0.023). The association between acupuncture and relaxation was found to be statistically borderline (p = 0.053). This feasibility study showed that acupuncture can be integrated into a busy postsurgical clinical practice. These results also suggest that acupuncture may be an important intervention in the postoperative setting for breast cancer patients.
Review of physics results from the Tevatron: Higgs boson physics
Authors: Junk Thomas R. , Juste Aurelio
Published: February 2015

We review the techniques and results of the searches for the Higgs boson performed by the two Tevatron collaborations, CDF and DØ. The Higgs boson predicted by the Standard Model was sought in the mass range 90 GeV < mH < 200 GeV in all main production modes at the Tevatron: gluon–gluon fusion, WH and ZH associated production, vector boson fusion, and [Formula: see text] production, and in five main decay modes: [Formula: see text], H→τ+τ-, H→WW(*), H→ZZ(*) and H→γγ. An excess of events was seen in the [Formula: see text] searches consistent with a Standard Model Higgs boson with a mass in the range 115 GeV < mH < 135 GeV . Assuming a Higgs boson mass of mH = 125 GeV , studies of Higgs boson properties were performed, including measurements of the product of the cross section times the branching ratio in various production and decay modes, constraints on Higgs boson couplings to fermions and vector bosons, and tests of spin and parity. We also summarize the results of searches for supersymmetric Higgs bosons, and Higgs bosons in other extensions of the Standard Model.
A microscopic interpretation of the SM Higgs mechanism
Authors: Lampe Bodo
Published: February 2015

A model is presented where the Higgs mechanism of the Standard Model is deduced from the alignment of a strongly correlated fermion system in an internal space with A4 symmetry. The ground state is constructed and its energy calculated. Finally, it is claimed that the model may be derived from a field theory in 6 + 1 dimensions.
Quantum phase transitions in composite matrix product states of one-dimensional spin-1/2 chains
Authors: Zhu Jing-Min
Published: February 2015

For matrix product states of one-dimensional spin-1/2 chains, we investigate the properties of quantum phase transition of the proposed composite system. We find that the system has three different ferromagnetic phases, one line of the two ferromagnetic phases coexisting equally describes the paramagnetic state, and the other two lines of two ferromagnetic phases coexisting equally describe the ferrimagnetic states, while the three phases coexisting equally point describes the ferromagnetic state. Whether on phase transition lines or at the phase transition point, the system is always in an isolated mediate-coupling state, the physical quantities are discontinuous and the system has long-range correlation and has long-range classical correlation and long-range quantum correlation. We believe that our work is helpful for comprehensively and profoundly understanding the quantum phase transitions, and of some certain guidance and enlightening on the classification and measure of quantum correlation of quantum many-body systems.
Image Completion: Survey and Comparative Study
Authors: Zarif Sameh , Faye Ibrahima , Rohaya Dayang
Published: February 2015

Image completion is an active and interesting research area in image processing and computer graphics. Restoration and retouching of damaged areas in an undetectable form is the objective of image completion techniques. Most of the recently developed video completion methods are extensions of image completion techniques to restore the damaged frames. With respect to video completion challenges and image completion future work, we survey existing methods and introduce a new classification. The methods in each category are described in detail. In the second part of the paper, we provide a comparison and evaluation study between the most recent image completion methods qualitatively as well as quantitatively. For a fair comparison, we introduced a new dataset and evaluated four available image completion methods on the same hardware. Experimental results are conducted to highlight the strengths and drawbacks of each image completion method.
A Multi-Scale Fuzzy Spatial Analysis Framework for Large Data Based on IT2 FS
Authors: Jifa Guo , Jian Mao , Tiejun Cui , Chongwei Li
Published: February 2015

The geographical world is an intricate system that comprises the interaction of the Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and pedosphere. Existing technologies and systems can only store, represent, and analyze crisp or type-I fuzzy spatial data and obtain spatial knowledge on several discrete scales. However, these technologies are limited to multi-scale and high-order vagueness spatial data representation and analysis, particularly regarding the representation and acquisition of multi-scale knowledge. In this paper, the uncertainty in geographic information systems (GISs) and existing problems in classical spatial analysis methods are summarized. Innovative concepts, such as the scale aggregation model and scale polymorphism, are proposed. A multi-scale fuzzy spatial analysis framework based on an interval type-II fuzzy set is introduced, and critical points are highlighted, such as an interval type-II fuzzy geographical object model (the boundary model and metric methods for geometric properties), direction relations, topological relations, and overlap methods. An actual case based on a multi-scale regional debris-flow hazard assessment is used to confirm the validity of the theory proposed in this paper.
On the α-Migrativity of Idempotent Uninorms
Authors: Qin Feng , Ruiz-Aguilera Daniel
Published: February 2015

The α-migrative property for uninorms with different neutral elements is presented, and some general results are given. The case for idempotent uninorms is studied, characterizing those uninorms (from any of the main classes of uninorms), which are α-migrative over an idempotent uninorm. The solutions obtained generalize the results where both uninorms have the same neutral elements.
Energy and information propagation in a finite coupled bosonic heat bath
Authors: Galve Fernando , Zambrini Roberta
Published: February 2015

The finite coupled bosonic model of reservoir introduced by Vasile et al. [Phys. Rev. A 89 (2014) 022109] to characterize non-Markovianity, is used to study the different dissipative behaviors of a harmonic oscillator coupled to it when it is in resonance, close to resonance or far detuned. We show that information and energy exchange between system and heat bath go hand in hand because phonons are the carriers of both: in resonance free propagation of excitations is achieved, and therefore pure dissipation, while when far detuned the system can only correlate with the first oscillator in the bath's chain, leading to almost unitary evolution. In the intermediate situation, we show the penetration of correlations and the formation of oscillatory (dressed state) behavior, which lies at the root of non-Markovianity.
Donor-π-acceptor, triazine-linked porphyrin dyads as sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Sharma Ganesh D. , Zervaki Galateia E. , Ladomenou Kalliopi , Koukaras Emmanuel N. , Angaridis Panagiotis P. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: February 2015

Two porphyrin dyads with the donor-π-acceptor molecular architecture, namely ( ZnP )-[triazine-gly]-( H 2 PCOOH ) and ( ZnP )-[triazine-Npip]-( H 2 PCOOH ), which consist of a zinc-metalated porphyrin unit and a free-base porphyrin unit covalently linked at their peripheries to a central triazine group, substituted either by a glycine in the former or a N-piperidine group in the latter, have been synthesized via consecutive amination substitution reactions of cyanuric chloride. The UV-vis absorption spectra and cyclic-voltammetry measurements of the two dyads, as well as theoretical calculations based on Density Functional Theory, suggest that they have suitable frontier orbital energy levels for use as sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells. Dye-sensitized solar cells based on ( ZnP )-[triazine-gly]-( H 2 PCOOH ) and ( ZnP )-[triazine-Npip]-( H 2 PCOOH ) have been fabricated, and they were found to exhibit power conversion efficiency values of 5.44 and 4.15%, respectively. Photovoltaic measurements (J–V curves) and incident photon to current conversion efficiency spectra of the two solar cells suggest that the higher power conversion efficiency value of the former solar cell is a result of its enhanced short circuit current, open circuit voltage, and fill factor values, as well as higher dye loading. This is ascribed to the existence of two carboxylic acid anchoring groups in ( ZnP )-[triazine-gly]-( H 2 PCOOH ), compared to one carboxylic acid group in ( ZnP )-[triazine-Npip]-( H 2 PCOOH ), which leads to a more effective binding onto the TiO 2 photoanode. Electrochemical impedance spectra show evidence that the ( ZnP )-[triazine-gly]-( H 2 PCOOH ) based solar cell exhibits a longer electron lifetime and more effective suppression of charge recombination reactions between the injected electrons and electrolyte.
Progress towards synthetic chlorins with graded polarity, conjugatable substituents, and wavelength tunability
Authors: Ra Doyoung , Gauger Kelly A. , Muthukumaran Kannan , Balasubramanian Thiagarajan , Chandrashaker Vanampally , Taniguchi Masahiko , Yu Zhanqian , Talley Daniel C. , Ehudin Melanie , Ptaszek Marcin , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: February 2015

Advances in chlorin synthetic chemistry now enable the de novo preparation of diverse chlorin-containing molecular architectures. Five distinct molecular designs have been explored here, including hydrophobic bioconjugatable (oxo)chlorins; a hydrophilic bioconjugatable chlorin; a trans-ethynyl/iodochlorin building block; a set of chlorins bearing electron-rich (methoxy, dimethylamino, methylthio) groups at the 3-position; and a set of ten 3,13-disubstituted chlorins chiefly bearing groups with extended π-moieties. Altogether 23 new chlorins (17 targets, 6 intermediates) have been prepared. The challenge associated with molecular designs that encompass the combination of "hydrophilic, bioconjugatable and wavelength-tunable" chiefly resides in the nature of the hydrophilic unit.
Co-sensitization of free-base and zinc porphyrins: An effective approach to improve the photon-to-current conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Mane Sandeep B. , Luo Liyang , Tsai Hsin-Han , Hung Chen-Hsiung
Published: February 2015

Co-sensitization of two or more sensitizers with complementary absorption profiles had been utilized as an imperative tool to achieve panchromatic sensitization in dye-sensitized solar cells. The highly efficient dye-sensitized solar cells consist of a co-sensitization system comprising of a mixture of porphyrin and organic dye. We have prepared four novel free-base and zinc porphyrins in minimum steps and examined their individual as well as co-sensitized performance in dye-sensitized solar cells. The UV-visible spectrum suggests that upon zinc insertion the absorption wavelength is red-shifted by 10 nm in both Soret and Q-band region. The density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the presence of an electron withdrawing cyanoacrylic acid as the anchoring group has pronounced effect on the charge distribution. IPCE spectra suggest that the co-sensitization of a free-base porphyrin with a zinc porphyrin resulted in panchromatic absorption in whole visible region. The device made with Mix-2, which is composed from the free-base porphyrin N4CN and the zinc porphyrin N4ZnCN gave the best performance with an overall photon-to-current conversion efficiency of 4.18%, with Jsc of 10.4 mA.cm-2, Voc of 0.56 V and fill factor of 72%.
Communicating uncertainty: managing the inherent probabilistic character of hazard estimates
Authors: Albarello Dario
Published: February 2015

A key aspect of ethics is the concept of responsible behaviour, that is, the attitude of correcting one's own actions based on the foreseen effects. In the case of Earth scientists, these actions mainly concern providing and communicating authoritative statements that are the basis of activities devoted to prevent possible losses. When deterministic statements are provided, science and scientists are imputable for any wrong action that relies on these statements. Probabilistic statements, instead, imply the possibility of alternative scenarios characterized by a degree of belief assessed based on the available knowledge. In this case, the lack of any definitive ‘truth’ requires the responsibility of a relevant decider to choose among several possibilities. Correctly communicating case by case the actual nature (deterministic or probabilistic) of the scientific statements becomes of paramount importance to manage effectively the relationship between the scientific community and society. The adoption of an epistemic view of probability and the use of clear decision-making tools may be of great help in providing a more effective basis for translating probabilistic statements into a comprehensible language and may also clarify the respective role of scientists and society in facing geological risks.
Modulation of angiotensin II signaling following exercise training in heart failure
Authors: Zucker Irving H. , Schultz Harold D. , Patel Kaushik P. , Wang Hanjun
Published: February 2015

Sympathetic activation is a consistent finding in the chronic heart failure (CHF) state. Current therapy for CHF targets the renin-angiotensin II (ANG II) and adrenergic systems. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and ANG II receptor blockers are standard treatments along with β-adrenergic blockade. However, the mortality and morbidity of this disease is still extremely high, even with good medical management. Exercise training (ExT) is currently being used in many centers as an adjunctive therapy for CHF. Clinical studies have shown that ExT is a safe, effective, and inexpensive way to improve quality of life, work capacity, and longevity in patients with CHF. This review discusses the potential neural interactions between ANG II and sympatho-excitation in CHF and the modulation of this interaction by ExT. We briefly review the current understanding of the modulation of the angiotensin type 1 receptor in sympatho-excitatory areas of the brain and in the periphery (i.e., in the carotid body and skeletal muscle). We discuss possible cellular mechanisms by which ExT may impact the sympatho-excitatory process by reducing oxidative stress, increasing nitric oxide. and reducing ANG II. We also discuss the potential role of ACE2 and Ang 1–7 in the sympathetic response to ExT. Fruitful areas of further investigation are the role and mechanisms by which pre-sympathetic neuronal metabolic activity in response to individual bouts of exercise regulate redox mechanisms and discharge at rest in CHF and other sympatho-excitatory states.
Hyperoxia stimulates the transdifferentiation of type II alveolar epithelial cells in newborn rats
Authors: Hou Ana , Fu Jianhua , Yang Haiping , Zhu Yuting , Pan Yuqing , Xu Shuyan , Xue Xindong
Published: February 2015

Supplemental oxygen treatment in preterm infants may cause bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), which is characterized by alveolar simplification and vascular disorganization. Despite type II alveolar epithelial cell (AEC II) damage being reported previously, we found no decrease in the AEC II-specific marker, surfactant protein C (SP-C), in the BPD model in our previous study. We thus speculated that AEC II injury is not a unique mechanism of BPD-related pulmonary epithelial repair dysfunction and that abnormal transdifferentiation can exist. Newborn rats were randomly assigned to model (85% oxygen inhalation) and control groups (room air inhalation). Expressions of AEC I (aquaporin 5, T1α) and AEC II markers (SP-C, SP-B) were detected at three levels: 1) in intact lung tissue, 2) in AEC II isolated from rats in the two groups, and 3) in AEC II isolated from newborn rats, which were further cultured under either hyperoxic or normoxic conditions. In the model group, increased AEC I was observed at both the tissue and cell level, and markedly increased transdifferentiation was observed by immunofluorescent double staining. Transmission electron microscopy revealed morphological changes in alveolar epithelium such as damaged AECs, a fused air-blood barrier structure, and opened tight junctions in the model group. These findings indicate that transdifferentiation of AECs is not suppressed but rather is increased under hyperoxic treatment by compensation; however, such repair during injury cannot offset pulmonary epithelial air exchange and barrier dysfunction caused by structural damage to AECs.
Immune Suppressive Effects of Tonsil-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells on Mouse Bone-Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells
Authors: Park Minhwa , Kim Yu-Hee , Ryu Jung-Hwa , Woo So-Youn , Ryu Kyung-Ha
Published: February 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are considered valuable sources for cell therapy because of their immune regulatory function. Here, we investigated the effects of tonsil-derived MSCs (T-MSCs) on the differentiation, maturation, and function of dendritic cells (DCs). We examined the effect of T-MSCs on differentiation and maturation of bone-marrow- (BM-) derived monocytes into DCs and we found suppressive effect of T-MSCs on DCs via direct contact as well as soluble mediators. Moreover, T cell proliferation, normally increased in the presence of DCs, was inhibited by T-MSCs. Differentiation of CD4+T cell subsets by the DC-T cell interaction also was inhibited by T-MSCs. The soluble mediators suppressed by T-MSCs were granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), RANTES, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). Taken together, T-MSCs exert immune modulatory function via suppression of the differentiation, maturation, and function of BM-derived DCs. Our data suggests that T-MSCs could be used as a novel source of stem cell therapy as immune modulators.
Npas4 Expression in Two Experimental Models of the Barrel Cortex Plasticity
Authors: Kaliszewska Aleksandra , Kossut Malgorzata
Published: February 2015

Npas4 has recently been identified as an important factor in brain plasticity, particularly in mechanisms of inhibitory control. Little is known about Npas4 expression in terms of cortical plasticity. In the present study expressions of Npas4 and the archetypal immediate early gene (IEG) c-Fos were investigated in the barrel cortex of mice after sensory deprivation (sparing one row of whiskers for 7 days) or sensory conditioning (pairing stimulation of one row of whiskers with aversive stimulus). Laser microdissection of individual barrel rows allowed for analysis of IEGs expression precisely in deprived and nondeprived barrels (in deprivation study) or stimulated and nonstimulated barrels (in conditioning study). Cortex activation by sensory conditioning was found to upregulate the expression of both Npas4 and c-Fos. Reorganization of cortical circuits triggered by removal of selected rows of whiskers strongly affected c-Fos but not Npas4 expression. We hypothesize that increased inhibitory synaptogenesis observed previously after conditioning may be mediated by Npas4 expression.
High-Density Physical Random Number Generator Using Spin Signals in Multidomain Ferromagnetic Layer
Authors: Chun Sungwoo , Lee Seung-Beck , Hara Masahiko , Park Wanjun , Kim Song-Ju
Published: February 2015

A high-density random number generator (RNG) based on spin signals in a multidomain ferromagnetic layer in a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) is proposed and fabricated. Unlike conventional spin-based RNGs, the proposed method does not require one to control an applied current, leading to a time delay in the system. RNG demonstrations are performed at room temperature. The randomness of the bit sequences generated by the proposed RNG is verified using the FIPS 140-2 statistical test suite provided by the NIST. The test results validate the effectiveness of the proposed RNGs. Our results suggest that we can obtain high-density, ultrafast RNGs if we can achieve high integration on the chip.
The Results of Adductor Magnus Tenodesis in Adolescents with Recurrent Patellar Dislocation
Authors: Malecki Krzysztof , Fabis Jaroslaw , Flont Pawel , Niedzielski Kryspin Ryszard
Published: February 2015

Recurrent dislocation of the patella is a common orthopaedic problem which occurs in about 44% of cases after first-time dislocation. In most cases of first-time patellar dislocation, the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) becomes damaged. Between 2010 and 2012, 33 children and adolescents (39 knees) with recurrent patellar dislocation were treated with MPFL reconstruction using the adductor magnus tendon. The aim of our study is to assess the effectiveness of this surgical procedure. The outcomes were evaluated functionally (Lysholm knee scale, the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale, and isokinetic examination) and radiographically (Caton index, sulcus angle, congruence angle, and patellofemoral angle). Four patients demonstrated redislocation with MPFL graft failure, despite the fact that patellar tracking was found to be normal before the injury, and the patients had not reported any symptoms. Statistically significant improvements in Lysholm and Kujala scales, in patellofemoral and congruence angle, were seen(P<0.001). A statistically significant improvement in the peak torque of the quadriceps muscle and flexor was observed for 60°/sec and 180°/sec angular velocities(P=0.01). Our results confirm the efficacy of MPFL reconstruction using the adductor magnus tendon in children and adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation.
Robust Abnormal Event Recognition via Motion and Shape Analysis at ATM Installations
Authors: Tripathi Vikas , Gangodkar Durgaprasad , Latta Vivek , Mittal Ankush
Published: February 2015

Automated teller machines (ATM) are widely being used to carry out banking transactions and are becoming one of the necessities of everyday life. ATMs facilitate withdrawal, deposit, and transfer of money from one account to another round the clock. However, this convenience is marred by criminal activities like money snatching and attack on customers, which are increasingly affecting the security of bank customers. In this paper, we propose a video based framework that efficiently identifies abnormal activities happening at the ATM installations and generates an alarm during any untoward incidence. The proposed approach makes use of motion history image (MHI) and Hu moments to extract relevant features from video. Principle component analysis has been used to reduce the dimensionality of features and classification has been carried out by using support vector machine. Analysis has been carried out on different video sequences by varying the window size of MHI. The proposed framework is able to distinguish the normal and abnormal activities like money snatching, harm to the customer by virtue of fight, or attack on the customer with an average accuracy of 95.73%.
Development of a Wearable-Sensor-Based Fall Detection System
Authors: Wu Falin , Zhao Hengyang , Zhao Yan , Zhong Haibo
Published: February 2015

Fall detection is a major challenge in the public healthcare domain, especially for the elderly as the decline of their physical fitness, and timely and reliable surveillance is necessary to mitigate the negative effects of falls. This paper develops a novel fall detection system based on a wearable device. The system monitors the movements of human body, recognizes a fall from normal daily activities by an effective quaternion algorithm, and automatically sends request for help to the caregivers with the patient’s location.
A Modified Design for Posterior Inlay-Retained Fixed Dental Prosthesis
Authors: Samran Abdulaziz , Nassani Mohammad Zakaria , Aswad Marwan , Abdulkarim Amid
Published: February 2015

The aim of this paper is to report a clinical case with bilateral missing mandibular second premolars that were restored by metal-ceramic inlay-retained fixed dental prostheses. The first prosthesis was of a traditional design and the second was of a modified design. The suggested design is created by modifying the retainer wings of the traditional resin-bonded inlay-retained fixed dental prosthesis and covering the wings with composite resin. The modified design is relatively conservative, esthetic and provides an extra element for the retention of posterior metal-ceramic inlay-retained fixed dental prostheses.
Wiki-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Adult Onset Sarcoma: A New Paradigm in Sarcoma Evidence
Authors: Neuhaus S. J. , Thomas D. , Desai J. , Vuletich C. , von Dincklage J. , Olver I.
Published: February 2015

In 2013 Australia introduced Wiki-based Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Adult Onset Sarcoma. These guidelines utilized a customized MediaWiki software application for guideline development and are the first evidence-based guidelines for clinical management of sarcoma. This paper presents our experience with developing and implementing web-based interactive guidelines and reviews some of the challenges and lessons from adopting an evidence-based (rather than consensus-based) approach to clinical sarcoma guidelines. Digital guidelines can be easily updated with new evidence, continuously reviewed and widely disseminated. They provide an accessible method of enabling clinicians and consumers to access evidence-based clinical practice recommendations and, as evidenced by over 2000 views in the first four months after release, with 49% of those visits being from countries outside of Australia. The lessons learned have relevance to other rare cancers in addition to the international sarcoma community.
High Serum IgG4 Concentrations in Patients with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
Authors: Popławska-Kita Anna , Kościuszko-Zdrodowska Maria , Siewko Katarzyna , Telejko Beata , Hryniewicka Justyna , Milewski Robert , Abdelrazek Saeid Soleman , Szelachowska Małgorzata , Górska Maria
Published: February 2015

Purpose. Since recent reports suggest that Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) may be associated with IgG4-related disease, we aimed to find out whether the measurement of serum IgG4 allows for the identification of distinct types of HT, with different clinical, sonographic, and serologic characteristics.Methods. The group studied consisted of 53 patients with HT and 28 healthy individuals who underwent thyroid ultrasonography and body composition analysis. Serum concentrations of IgG4, TSH, anti-peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), anti-TSH receptor antibodies, TNF-α, TGF-β1, Fas Ligand, TRAIL, and chemokines (CXCL9, CXCL11, and CXCL10) were measured by ELISA or radioimmunoassay.Results. The group with IgG4 level >135 IU/ml accounted for 32.5% of the patients. The signs of fibrosis were present in 27.0% of the high-IgG4 patients and in 9.1% of the normal-IgG4 group. The patients with elevated IgG4 required higher doses of L-thyroxine and had significantly lower level of TPOAb (P=0.02) than the non-IgG4-HT individuals and higher TNF-αlevel in comparison with the controls (P=0.01).Conclusions. Our results suggest that the measurement of serum IgG4 allows for an identification of patients with more rapid progression of HT, requiring higher doses of L-thyroxine. Low TPOAb level and the absence of coexisting autoimmune diseases may suggest distinct pathomechanism of this type of thyroiditis.
Pure Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Duodenum
Authors: Battal Muharrem , Bostancı Ozgur , Basak Tulay , Kartal Kinyas , Ekiz Feza
Published: February 2015

Primary carcinomas of the small intestine are extremely rare neoplasms. Most of these are adenocarcinomas. Primary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of small intestine is exceptionally rare with only occasional case reports in the literature. We report here a surgically treated patient with squamous cell carcinoma arising from duodenal diverticula in the third part of the duodenum.
Modeling Spare Parts Demands Forecast under Two-Dimensional Preventive Maintenance Policy
Authors: Hu Qiwei , Bai Yongsheng , Zhao Jianmin , Cao Wenbin
Published: February 2015

In maintenance practice, there is such a situation where the spare parts replacement should be carried out at the scheduling time of calendar or usage for whichever comes first. The issue of two-dimensional preventive maintenance usually was not addressed by traditional methods, and at present, few studies were focused on this very topic. Based on these considerations, this paper presented the two-dimensional preventive policy where replacements of spare parts are based on both calendar time and usage time. A novel model was developed to forecast spare parts demands under two-dimensional preventive maintenance policy, and a discrete algorithm was presented for solving the mathematical model. A case study was given to demonstrate its applicability and validity, and it was showed that the presented model can be used to forecast spare parts demands as well as to optimize spare parts and preventive maintenance jointly.
Amyand’s Hernia Complicated by Omental Infarct Presenting as Acute Scrotum: Report of a Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Khorramirouz Reza , Bagheri Amin , Sahebpour Alireza Aalam , Kajbafzadeh Abdol-Mohammad
Published: February 2015

Inguinal hernia with acute appendicitis known as Amyand’s hernia is uncommon. It may clinically manifest as acute scrotum, inguinal lymphadenitis, or strangulated hernia. The presentation of Amyand’s hernia with acute scrotum has been rarely described. Also, the manifestation of infarcted omentum in the inguinal hernia has been described in one case previously. However, the coexistence of perforated appendix with infarcted omentum in the hernia sac which manifests acute scrotum has not been described previously. Herein, we described a case of a 5-year-old boy, admitted with right tense, painful, and erythematous scrotum in the emergency room. The diagnosis of herniated appendicitis was performed preoperatively by ultrasound. Moreover, the ischemic omentum was confirmed during surgery.
Hypergravity Stimulation Enhances PC12 Neuron-Like Cell Differentiation
Authors: Genchi Giada Graziana , Cialdai Francesca , Monici Monica , Mazzolai Barbara , Mattoli Virgilio , Ciofani Gianni
Published: February 2015

Altered gravity is a strong physical cue able to elicit different cellular responses, representing a largely uninvestigated opportunity for tissue engineering/regenerative medicine applications. Our recent studies have shown that both proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 skeletal muscle cells can be enhanced by hypergravity treatment; given these results, PC12 neuron-like cells were chosen to test the hypothesis that hypergravity stimulation might also affect the behavior of neuronal cells, in particular promoting an enhanced differentiated phenotype. PC12 cells were thus cultured under differentiating conditions for either 12 h or 72 h before being stimulated with different values of hypergravity (50 g and 150 g). Effects of hypergravity were evaluated at transcriptional level 1 h and 48 h after the stimulation, and at protein level 48 h from hypergravity exposure, to assess its influence on neurite development over increasing differentiation times. PC12 differentiation resulted strongly affected by the hypergravity treatments; in particular, neurite length was significantly enhanced after exposure to high acceleration values. The achieved results suggest that hypergravity might induce a faster and higher neuronal differentiation and encourage further investigations on the potential of hypergravity in the preparation of cellular constructs for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering purposes.
Tibial Tubercle Fracture in a 14-Year-Old Athlete with Bilateral Lower Pole Bipartite Patella and Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Authors: Pascarella Fabio , Ziranu Antonio , Maccauro Giulio
Published: February 2015

We present a case of tibial tubercle fracture in a young male athlete with both bilateral bipartite patella at the lower pole (Saupe type I) and Osgood-Schlatter disease. Open reduction and internal fixation were performed to restore the extensor mechanism of the knee.
Dual Prosthetic Heart Valve Presented with Chest Pain: A Case Report of Coronary Thromboembolism
Authors: Wongrakpanich Supakanya , Thamcharoen Natanong , Chongsathidkiet Pakawat , Siwamogsatham Sarawut
Published: February 2015

Coronary embolism from a prosthetic heart valve is a rare but remarkable cause of acute coronary syndrome. There is no definite management of an entity like this. Here we report a case of 54-year-old male with a history of rheumatic heart disease with dual prosthetic heart valve and atrial fibrillation who developed chest pain from acute myocardial infarction. The laboratory values showed inadequate anticoagulation. Cardiac catheterization and thrombectomy with the aspiration catheter were chosen to be the treatment for this patient, and it showed satisfactory outcome.
A Rare Case of Primary Amenorrhea with Two Etiologies, Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, Transverse Vaginal Septum, and No Hematocolpos
Authors: Ghaffari Firouzeh , Keikha Fatemeh , Arabipoor Arezoo
Published: February 2015

We reported a rare case of hypothalamic amenorrhea and transverse vaginal septum. A 28-year-old woman presented with primary amenorrhea and no complaint of abdominal pain. Laparoscopy revealed a small rudimentary uterus with streak ovaries and a vaginal pouch. The patient with diagnosis of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome was subjected to a vaginoplasty in another fertility center. In our institute, after two courses of estrogen and progesterone, sonography revealed hematocolpos, while, under anesthesia, transverse vaginal septum was resected. Hysteroscopy revealed normal uterine cavity. She became pregnant 5 months postoperatively with controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in conjunction with intrauterine insemination, and she has two healthy babies now. This case highlights the importance of careful evaluation of all primary amenorrheas. Clinicians should be aware of presence of more than one etiology which causes atypical presentations and accomplishes a systematic strategy for the evaluation of amenorrhea potential to avoid long-term side effects of a misdiagnosis.