bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Antibodies from a Subset of Horses Positive for Babesia caballi by Competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay Demonstrate a Protein Recognition Pattern That Is Not Consistent with Infection
Authors: Awinda Peter O. , Mealey Robert H. , Williams Laura B. A. , Conrad Patricia A. , Packham Andrea E. , Reif Kathryn E. , Grause Juanita F. , Pelzel-McCluskey Angela M. , Chung Chungwon , Bastos Reginaldo G. , Kappmeyer Lowell S. , Howe Daniel K. , Ness SallyAnne L. , Knowles Donald P. , Ueti Massaro W.
Published: September 2013

Tick-borne pathogens that cause persistent infection are of major concern to the livestock industry because of transmission risk from persistently infected animals and the potential economic losses they pose. The recent reemergence ofTheileria equiin the United States prompted a widespread national survey resulting in identification of limited distribution of equine piroplasmosis (EP) in the U.S. horse population. This program identifiedBabesia caballi-seropositive horses using rhoptry-associated protein 1 (RAP-1)–competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA), despiteB. caballibeing considered nonendemic on the U.S. mainland. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the suitability of RAP-1–cELISA as a single serological test to determine the infection status ofB. caballiin U.S. horses. Immunoblotting indicated that sera from U.S. horses reacted withB. caballilysate and purifiedB. caballiRAP-1 protein. Antibody reactivity toB. caballilysate was exclusively directed against a single ∼50-kDa band corresponding to a nativeB. caballiRAP-1 protein. In contrast, sera from experimentally and naturally infected horses from regions whereB. caballiis endemic bound multiple proteins ranging from 30 to 50 kDa. Dilutions of sera from U.S. horses positive by cELISA revealed low levels of antibodies, while sera from horses experimentally infected withB. caballiand from areas whereB. caballiis endemic had comparatively high antibody levels. Finally, blood transfer from seropositive U.S. horses into naive horses demonstrated no evidence ofB. caballitransmission, confirming that antibody reactivity in cELISA-positive U.S. horses was not consistent with infection. Therefore, we conclude that a combination of cELISA and immunoblotting is required for the accurate serodiagnosis ofB. caballi.
Rapid Subtyping of Yersinia enterocolitica by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for Diagnostics and Surveillance
Authors: Rizzardi Kristina , Wahab Tara , Jernberg Cecilia
Published: September 2013

In this study, an alternative to the current traditional bioserotyping techniques was developed for subtypingY. enterocoliticausing matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). The most common pathogenic bioserotypes could easily be distinguished using only a few bioserotype-specific biomarkers. However, biochemical methods should still be used to distinguish biotype 1A from 1B.
Detection of Heteroresistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Pyrosequencing
Authors: Engström Anna , Hoffner Sven , Juréen Pontus
Published: September 2013

The ability of pyrosequencing to detect a resistant minority population of a heteroresistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
strain was investigated by performing a titration study. A mutant signal was noted only when the proportion of mutant DNA in the DNA target was 35 to 50%, showing that the sensitivity is significantly lower than that of phenotypic drug susceptibility test methods.
Quantitative Detection of Vibrio cholera Toxin by Real-Time and Dynamic Cytotoxicity Monitoring
Authors: Jin Dazhi , Luo Yun , Zheng Min , Li Haijing , Zhang Jing , Stampfl Melinda , Xu Xiao , Ding Gangqiang , Zhang Yanjun , Tang Yi-Wei
Published: September 2013

We report here the quantitative detection of
Vibrio cholerae
toxin (CT) in isolates and stool specimens by dynamic monitoring of the full course of CT-mediated cytotoxicity in a real-time cell analysis (RTCA) system. Four cell lines, including Y-1 mouse adrenal tumor cells, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, small intestine epithelial (FHs74Int) cells, and mouse adrenal gland (PC12-Adh) cells, were evaluated for their suitability for CT-induced cytotoxicity testing. Among them, the Y-1 line was demonstrated to be the most sensitive for CT-mediated cytotoxicity, with limits of detection of 7.0 pg/ml for purified CT and 0.11 ng/ml for spiked CT in pooled negative stool specimens. No CT-mediated cytotoxicity was observed for nontoxigenic
V. cholerae
, non-
V. cholerae
species, or non-
V. cholerae
enterotoxins. The CT-RTCA assay was further validated with 100 stool specimens consecutively collected from patients with diarrhea and 200
V. cholerae
isolates recovered from patients and the environment, in comparison to a reference using three detection methods. The CT-RTCA assay had sensitivities and specificities of 97.5% and 100.0%, respectively, for
V. cholerae
isolates and 90.0% and 97.2% for stool specimens. For stool specimens spiked with CT concentrations ranging from 3.5 pg/ml to 1.8 ng/ml, the inoculation-to-detection time was 1.12 ± 0.38 h, and the values were inversely correlated with CT concentrations (ρ = −1;
P
= 0.01). The results indicate that the CT-RTCA assay with the Y-1 cell line provides a rapid and sensitive tool for the quantitative detection of CT activities in clinical specimens.
Comparison of the Simplexa FluA/B & RSV Direct Assay and Laboratory-Developed Real-Time PCR Assays for Detection of Respiratory Virus
Authors: Woodberry Mitchell W. , Shankar Rohit , Cent Anne , Jerome Keith R. , Kuypers Jane
Published: September 2013

The results of the Focus Simplexa FluA/B & RSV Direct assay were compared to those of laboratory-developed reverse transcription PCR tests for 498 nasopharyngeal swabs. Concordance rates were 96.6% (476/493; κ = 0.91), 97.6% (481/493; κ = 0.47), and 99.2% (488/492; κ = 0.94) for influenza A, influenza B, and respiratory syncytial virus, respectively.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Elicits Broad Functional CD4
+
T Cell Responses That Recognize Structural and Nonstructural Proteins
Authors: James Eddie A. , LaFond Rebecca E. , Gates Theresa J. , Mai Duy T. , Malhotra Uma , Kwok William W.
Published: September 2013

Yellow fever virus (YFV) can induce acute, life-threatening disease that is a significant health burden in areas where yellow fever is endemic, but it is preventable through vaccination. The live attenuated 17D YFV strain induces responses characterized by neutralizing antibodies and strong T cell responses. This vaccine provides an excellent model for studying human immunity. While several studies have characterized YFV-specific antibody and CD8
+
T cell responses, less is known about YFV-specific CD4
+
T cells. Here we characterize the epitope specificity, functional attributes, and dynamics of YFV-specific T cell responses in vaccinated subjects by investigating peripheral blood mononuclear cells by using HLA-DR tetramers. A total of 112 epitopes restricted by seven common HLA-DRB1 alleles were identified. Epitopes were present within all YFV proteins, but the capsid, envelope, NS2a, and NS3 proteins had the highest epitope density. Antibody blocking demonstrated that the majority of YFV-specific T cells were HLA-DR restricted. Therefore, CD4
+
T cell responses could be effectively characterized with HLA-DR tetramers.
Ex vivo
tetramer analysis revealed that YFV-specific T cells persisted at frequencies ranging from 0 to 100 cells per million that are detectable years after vaccination. Longitudinal analysis indicated that YFV-specific CD4
+
T cells reached peak frequencies, often exceeding 250 cells per million, approximately 2 weeks after vaccination. As frequencies subsequently declined, YFV-specific cells regained CCR7 expression, indicating a shift from effector to central memory. Cells were typically CXCR3 positive, suggesting Th1 polarization, and produced gamma interferon and other cytokines after reactivation
in vitro
. Therefore, YFV elicits robust early effector CD4
+
T cell responses that contract, forming a detectable memory population.
Zinc-Dependent Interaction between JAB1 and Pre-S
2
Mutant Large Surface Antigen of Hepatitis B Virus and Its Implications for Viral Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Hsu Jye-Lin , Chuang Woei-Jer , Su Ih-Jen , Gui Wen-Jun , Chang Yu-Ying , Lee Yun-Ping , Ai Yu-Lin , Chuang David T. , Huang Wenya
Published: September 2013

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. The pre-S
2
mutant large HBV surface protein (Δ2 LHBS), which contains an in-frame deletion of approximately 17 amino acids in LHBS, is highly associated with risks and prognoses of HBV-induced HCC. It was previously reported that Δ2 LHBS interacts with the Jun activation domain-binding protein 1 (JAB1), a zinc metalloprotease. This promotes the degradation of the cell cycle regulator p27
Kip1
and is believed to be the major mechanism for Δ2 LHBS-induced HCC. In this study, it was found that the interaction between JAB1 and Δ2 LHBS is facilitated by divalent metal Zn
2+
ions. The binding of JAB1 to Δ2 LHBS requires the JAB1/CSN5 MPN metalloenzyme (JAMM) motif and residue H138 that binds to Zn
2+
ions in JAB1. Isothermal titration calorimetry showed that Δ2 LHBS binds directly to Zn
2+
ions in a two-site binding mode. Residues H71 and H116 in Δ2 LHBS, which also contact Zn
2+
ions, are also indispensable for Δ2 LHBS-mediated p27
Kip1
degradation in human HuH7 cells. These results suggest that developing drugs that interrupt interactions between Δ2 LHBS and JAB1 can be used to mitigate Δ2 LHBS-associated risks for HCC.
Dynamics of Viral Evolution and Neutralizing Antibody Response after HIV-1 Superinfection
Authors: Chaillon Antoine , Wagner Gabriel A. , Hepler N. Lance , Little Susan J. , Kosakovsky Pond Sergei L. , Caballero Gemma , Pacold Mary E. , Phung Pham , Wrin Terri , Richman Douglas D. , Wertheim Joel O. , Smith Davey M.
Published: September 2013

Investigating the incidence and prevalence of HIV-1 superinfection is challenging due to the complex dynamics of two infecting strains. The superinfecting strain can replace the initial strain, be transiently expressed, or persist along with the initial strain in distinct or in recombined forms. Various selective pressures influence these alternative scenarios in different HIV-1 coding regions. We hypothesized that the potency of the neutralizing antibody (NAb) response to autologous viruses would modulate viral dynamics in
env
following superinfection in a limited set of superinfection cases. HIV-1
env
pyrosequencing data were generated from blood plasma collected from 7 individuals with evidence of superinfection. Viral variants within each patient were screened for recombination, and viral dynamics were evaluated using nucleotide diversity. NAb responses to autologous viruses were evaluated before and after superinfection. In 4 individuals, the superinfecting strain replaced the original strain. In 2 individuals, both initial and superinfecting strains continued to cocirculate. In the final individual, the surviving lineage was the product of interstrain recombination. NAb responses to autologous viruses that were detected within the first 2 years of HIV-1 infection were weak or absent for 6 of the 7 recently infected individuals at the time of and shortly following superinfection. These 6 individuals had detectable on-going viral replication of distinct superinfecting virus in the
env
coding region. In the remaining case, there was an early and strong autologous NAb response, which was associated with extensive recombination in
env
between initial and superinfecting strains. This extensive recombination made superinfection more difficult to identify and may explain why the detection of superinfection has typically been associated with low autologous NAb titers.
Aged Mice Exhibit a Severely Diminished CD8 T Cell Response following Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Authors: Fulton Ross B. , Weiss Kayla A. , Pewe Lecia L. , Harty John T. , Varga Steven M.
Published: September 2013

Respiratory virus infections in the elderly result in increased rates of hospitalization and death. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of severe virus-induced respiratory disease in individuals over the age of 65. CD8 T cells play a critical role in mediating RSV clearance. While it is clear that T cell immunity declines with age, it is not clear to what extent the CD8 T cell response to RSV is altered. Using aged BALB/c mice, we demonstrated that RSV-specific CD8 T cell responses were significantly reduced in the lungs of aged mice at the peak of the T cell response and that this decrease correlated with delayed viral clearance. Despite a decrease in the overall numbers of RSV-specific CD8 T cells during acute infection, their capacity to produce effector cytokines was not impaired. Following viral clearance, the RSV-specific memory CD8 T cells were similar in total number and phenotype in young and aged mice. Furthermore, following infection with a heterologous pathogen expressing an RSV epitope, RSV-specific memory CD8 T cells exhibited similar activation and ability to provide early control of the infection in young and aged mice. These data demonstrate a decrease in the capacity of aged mice to induce a high-magnitude acute CD8 T cell response, leading to prolonged viral replication, which may contribute to the increased disease severity of RSV infection observed for aged individuals.
Crystal Structure of Venezuelan Hemorrhagic Fever Virus Fusion Glycoprotein Reveals a Class 1 Postfusion Architecture with Extensive Glycosylation
Authors: Parsy Marie-Laure , Harlos Karl , Huiskonen Juha T. , Bowden Thomas A.
Published: September 2013

Guanarito virus (GTOV) is an emergent and deadly pathogen. We present the crystal structure of the glycosylated GTOV fusion glycoprotein to 4.1-Å resolution in the postfusion conformation. Our structure reveals a classical six-helix bundle and presents direct verification that New World arenaviruses exhibit class I viral membrane fusion machinery. The structure provides visualization of an N-linked glycocalyx coat, and consideration of glycan dynamics reveals extensive coverage of the underlying protein surface, following virus-host membrane fusion.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Serine/Threonine Kinase US3 Hyperphosphorylates IRF3 and Inhibits Beta Interferon Production
Authors: Wang Shuai , Wang Kezhen , Lin Rongtuan , Zheng Chunfu
Published: September 2013

Viral infection initiates a series of signaling cascades that lead to the transcription of interferons (IFNs), finally inducing interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) to eliminate viruses. Viruses have evolved a variety of strategies to modulate host IFN-mediated immune responses. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) US3, a Ser/Thr kinase conserved in alphaherpesviruses, was previously reported to counteract host innate immunity; however, the molecular mechanism is elusive. In this study, we report that US3 blocks IFN-β production by hyperphosphorylating IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). Ectopic expression of US3 protein significantly inhibited Sendai virus (SeV)-mediated activation of IFN-β and IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE) promoters and the transcription of IFN-β, ISG54, and ISG56. US3 was also shown to block SeV-induced dimerization and nuclear translocation of IRF3. The kinase activity was indispensable for its inhibitory function, as kinase-dead (KD) US3 mutants K220M and D305A could not inhibit IFN-β production. Furthermore, US3 interacted with and hyperphosphorylated IRF3 at Ser175 to prevent IRF3 activation. Finally, the US3 KD mutant viruses were constructed and denoted K220M or D305A HSV-1, respectively. Cells and mice infected with both mutant viruses produced remarkably larger amounts of IFN-β than those infected with wild-type HSV-1. For the first time, these findings provide convincing evidence that US3 hyperphosphorylates IRF3, blocks the production of IFN-β, and subverts host innate immunity.
Murine Norovirus Transcytosis across anIn VitroPolarized Murine Intestinal Epithelial Monolayer Is Mediated by M-Like Cells
Authors: Gonzalez-Hernandez Mariam B. , Liu Thomas , Blanco Luz P. , Auble Heather , Payne Hilary C. , Wobus Christiane E.
Published: September 2013

Noroviruses (NoVs) are the causative agent of the vast majority of nonbacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Due to the inability to culture human NoVs and the inability to orally infect a small animal model, little is known about the initial steps of viral entry. One particular step that is not understood is how NoVs breach the intestinal epithelial barrier. Murine NoV (MNV) is the only NoV that can be propagatedin vitroby infecting murine macrophages and dendritic cells, making this virus an attractive model for studies of different aspects of NoV biology. Polarized murine intestinal epithelial mICcl2cells were used to investigate how MNV interacts with and crosses the intestinal epithelium. In thisin vitromodel of the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE), MNV is transported across the polarized cell monolayer in the absence of viral replication or disruption of tight junctions by a distinct epithelial cell with microfold (M) cell properties. In addition to transporting MNV, these M-like cells also transcytose microbeads and express an IgA receptor. Interestingly, B myeloma cells cultured in the basolateral compartment underlying the epithelial monolayer did not alter the number of M-like cells but increased their transcytotic activity. Our data demonstrate that MNV can cross an intact intestinal epithelial monolayerin vitroby hijacking the M-like cells' intrinsic transcytotic pathway and suggest a potential mechanism for MNV entry into the host.
Radiation-induced intracranial meningioma and multiple cavernomas
Authors: Chourmouzi Danai , Papadopoulou Elissavet , Kontopoulos Athanasios , Drevelegas Antonios
Published: September 2013

Brain irradiation has several well-known long-term side effects, including radiation-induced neoplasms and vasculopathy. In this case report, we describe an extremely rare case of meningioma and 15 cavernomas developing in a 29-year-old man, 19 years after cranial irradiation for posterior cranial fossa medulloblastoma. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a radiation-induced meningioma accompanied by this many radiation-induced cavernous angiomas.
Angioneurotic oedema secondary to oral thiamine
Authors: Osman Mugtaba , Casey Patricia
Published: September 2013

Although allergic side effects due to parenteral thiamine are well-documented, they are extremely rare when thiamine is used orally. We report a case of a 47-year-old woman who developed angioneurotic oedema secondary to oral ingestion of thiamine at a therapeutic dose. The incident occurred twice with a clear temporal relationship to the initiation on thiamine.
What do community football players think about different exercise-training programmes? Implications for the delivery of lower limb injury prevention programmes
Authors: Finch Caroline F , Doyle Tim LA , Dempsey Alasdair R , Elliott Bruce C , Twomey Dara M , White Peta E , Diamantopoulou Kathy , Young Warren , Lloyd David G
Published: September 2013

Background

Players are the targeted end-users and beneficiaries of exercise-training programmes implemented during coach-led training sessions, and the success of programmes depends upon their active participation. Two variants of an exercise-training programme were incorporated into the regular training schedules of 40 community Australian Football teams, over two seasons. One variant replicated common training practices, while the second was an evidence-based programme to alter biomechanical and neuromuscular factors related to risk of knee injuries. This paper describes the structure of the implemented programmes and compares players’ end-of-season views about the programme variants.

Methods

This study was nested within a larger group-clustered randomised controlled trial of the effectiveness of two exercise-training programmes (control and neuromuscular control (NMC)) for preventing knee injuries. A post-season self-report survey, derived from Health Belief Model constructs, included questions to obtain players’ views about the benefits and physical challenges of the programme in which they participated.

Results

Compared with control players, those who participated in the NMC programme found it to be less physically challenging but more enjoyable and potentially of more benefit. Suggestions from players about potential improvements to the training programme and its future implementation included reducing duration, increasing range of drills/exercises and promoting its injury prevention and other benefits to players.

Conclusions

Players provide valuable feedback about the content and focus of implemented exercise-training programmes, that will directly inform the delivery of similar, or more successful, programmes in the future.
Telemonitoring after discharge from hospital with heart failure: cost-effectiveness modelling of alternative service designs
Authors: Thokala Praveen , Baalbaki Hassan , Brennan Alan , Pandor Abdullah , Stevens John W , Gomersall Tim , Wang Jenny , Bakhai Ameet , Al-Mohammad Abdallah , Cleland John , Cowie Martin R , Wong Ruth
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To estimate the cost-effectiveness of remote monitoring strategies versus usual care for adults recently discharged after a heart failure (HF) exacerbation.

Design

Decision analysis modelling of cost-effectiveness using secondary data sources.

Setting

Acute hospitals in the UK.

Patients

Patients recently discharged (within 28 days) after a HF exacerbation.

Interventions

Structured telephone support (STS) via human to machine (STS HM) interface, (2) STS via human to human (STS HH) contact and (3) home telemonitoring (TM), compared with (4) usual care.

Main outcome measures

The incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained by each strategy compared to the next most effective alternative and the probability of each strategy being cost-effective at varying willingness to pay per QALY gained.

Results

TM was the most cost-effective strategy in the scenario using these base case costs. Compared with usual care, TM had an estimated incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) of £11 873/QALY, whereas STS HH had an ICER of £228 035/QALY against TM. STS HM was dominated by usual care. Threshold analysis suggested that the monthly cost of TM has to be higher than £390 to have an ICER greater than £20 000/QALY against STS HH. Scenario analyses performed using higher costs of usual care, higher costs of STS HH and lower costs of TM do not substantially change the conclusions.

Conclusions

Cost-effectiveness analyses suggest that TM was an optimal strategy in most scenarios, but there is considerable uncertainty in relation to clear descriptions of the interventions and robust estimation of costs.
An unusual case of mesenteric ischaemia
Authors: Ayres L R O , Scott M , Shepherd N , Brown J
Published: September 2013

We describe an unusual cause of diarrhoea and segmental colitis in a previous well adult man. Mesenteric inflammatory veno-occlusive disease is a rare cause of gastrointestinal tract ischaemia of unknown aetiology. We review the literature of this condition and other mesenteric venous pathologies.
The medical aspects of the 1565 Great Siege of Malta
Authors: Savona-Ventura Charles
Published: September 2013

The 1565 Siege of Malta served as a turning point in the westward Ottoman advance. The 4-month long siege was resisted by the indomitable belief of the defenders that their cause was just and holy. It also required prior detailed organisation to ensure sufficient war materials and that the overall health of the combatants and non-combatants was maintained throughout the months of the siege. This article reviews the contemporary and historical sources relating to the conflict to identify the medical operational plans used by the military during this historic siege.
Republished: Going glass to digital: virtual microscopy as a simulation-based revolution in pathology and laboratory science
Authors: Nelson Danielle , Ziv Amitai , Bandali Karim S
Published: September 2013

The recent technological advance of digital high resolution imaging has allowed the field of pathology and medical laboratory science to undergo a dramatic transformation with the incorporation of virtual microscopy as a simulation-based educational and diagnostic tool. This transformation has correlated with an overall increase in the use of simulation in medicine in an effort to address dwindling clinical resource availability and patient safety issues currently facing the modern healthcare system. Virtual microscopy represents one such simulation-based technology that has the potential to enhance student learning and readiness to practice while revolutionising the ability to clinically diagnose pathology collaboratively across the world. While understanding that a substantial amount of literature already exists on virtual microscopy, much more research is still required to elucidate the full capabilities of this technology. This review explores the use of virtual microscopy in medical education and disease diagnosis with a unique focus on key requirements needed to take this technology to the next level in its use in medical education and clinical practice.
ADVANCED METHODS IN BLACK-HOLE PERTURBATION THEORY
Authors: PANI PAOLO
Published: September 2013

Black-hole perturbation theory is a useful tool to investigate issues in astrophysics, high-energy physics, and fundamental problems in gravity. It is often complementary to fully-fledged nonlinear evolutions and instrumental to interpret some results of numerical simulations. Several modern applications require advanced tools to investigate the linear dynamics of generic small perturbations around stationary black holes. Here, we present an overview of these applications and introduce extensions of the standard semianalytical methods to construct and solve the linearized field equations in curved space–time. Current state-of-the-art techniques are pedagogically explained and exciting open problems are presented.
ANALYTICAL SOLUTIONS OF THE SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION WITH THE MANNING–ROSEN POTENTIAL PLUS A RING-SHAPED-LIKE POTENTIAL
Authors: AHMADOV H. I. , AYDIN C. , HUSEYNOVA N. SH. , UZUN O.
Published: September 2013

The analytical solution of the Schrödinger equation for the Manning–Rosen potential plus a ring-shaped-like potential is obtained by applying the Nikiforov–Uvarov method by using the improved approximation scheme to the centrifugal potential for arbitrary l states. The energy levels are worked out and the corresponding normalized eigenfunctions are obtained in terms of orthogonal polynomials for arbitrary l states.
REVISITING PARRONDO'S PARADOX FOR THE LOGISTIC FAMILY
Authors: CÁNOVAS JOSE S. , MUÑOZ MARÍA
Published: September 2013

The aim of this paper is to investigate the existence of Parrondo's paradox for the logistic family fa(x) = ax(1 - x), x ∈ [0, 1], when the parameter value a ranges over the interval [1, 4]. We find that a paradox of type "order + order = chaos" arises for both physically observable and topological chaos, while a "chaos + chaos = order" paradox can be only detected for the case of physically observable chaos. In addition, we raise the question of whether the paradox "chaos + chaos = order" can appear in the topological sense or whether, as our computations seem to show, it is impossible for the logistic family.
Kinetic and mechanism of the aqueous selective oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides: insight into the cytochrome P450-like oxidative metabolic process
Authors: Zhou Xian-Tai , Ren Gang-Qing , Ji Hong-Bing
Published: September 2013

The selective oxidation of sulfides with hydrogen peroxide to give sulfoxides was carried out in aqueous solution by water-soluble manganese porphyrin as mimics of cytochrome P450-like catalyst. Different factors that influencing the selective oxidation of sulfides, for example, catalyst, amount of catalyst, solvent and reaction temperature were investigated. MnTE4PyP (meso-tetrakis(N-ethylpyridinium-4-yl) manganese porphyrin) was efficient and selective catalyst for oxidation of various sulfides. The reaction showed first-order dependence in both [sulfide] and [ H 2 O 2], and a fractional order respect to catalyst. Oxygen atom transfer mechanism involves high-valence intermediate was proposed, which was supported by kinetic orders and spectrophotometric evidences.
MANNING'S 'n' FOR STAGGERED FLEXIBLE EMERGENT VEGETATION
Authors: NOARAYANAN L. , MURALI K. , SUNDAR V.
Published: September 2013

Vegetation along a coastline could offer significant protection of the adjoining land area against natural hazards such as storm surge and tsunami. In this context, the flexibility of the individual that stems within the green belt is understood to play an important role in the attenuation of momentum of the incoming waves. The physics of which, is yet to be understood completely. Difficulty in modeling the rigidity of the plantations, both numerically and experimentally, is the main cause for this lack of understanding. In the present work, a detailed laboratory study is taken up to examine the resistance characteristics of a group of model slender flexible cylinders. The individual cylinders of the group were fixed to the bed in a staggered configuration. The size, vegetation density and the elastic modulus of the individual stems were chosen such that the tests covered the practical ranges of vegetation in coastal forestry. The Manning's n for different flow conditions as well as for vegetative parameters was obtained from the physical tests in uniform steady current. The results clearly bring out the variation of flow resistance in terms of flow velocity, density of plantation, individual stem diameter and its elastic property. A new empirical relationship is proposed for estimation of Manning's n for staggered flexible emerging plantations which is valid for depths of flow greater than 0.8 times the undeflected plant height.
RANDOM MATRIX MINOR PROCESSES RELATED TO PERCOLATION THEORY
Authors: ADLER MARK , VAN MOERBEKE PIERRE , WANG DONG
Published: September 2013

This paper studies a number of matrix models of size n and the associated Markov chains for the eigenvalues of the models for consecutive n's. They are consecutive principal minors for two of the models, GUE with external source and the multiple Laguerre matrix model, and merely properly defined consecutive matrices for the third one, the Jacobi–Piñeiro model; nevertheless the eigenvalues of the consecutive models all interlace. We show: (i) For each of those finite models, we give the transition probability of the associated Markov chain and the joint distribution of the entire interlacing set of eigenvalues; we show this is a determinantal point process whose extended kernels share many common features. (ii) To each of these models and their set of eigenvalues, we associate a last-passage percolation model, either finite percolation or percolation along an infinite strip of finite width, yielding a precise relationship between the last-passage times and the eigenvalues. (iii) Finally, it is shown that for appropriate choices of exponential distribution on the percolation, with very small means, the rescaled last-passage times lead to the Pearcey process; this should connect the Pearcey statistics with random directed polymers.
Anaerobic respiration sustains mitochondrial membrane potential in a prolyl hydroxylase pathway-activated cancer cell line in a hypoxic microenvironment
Authors: Takahashi Eiji , Sato Michihiko
Published: September 2013

To elucidate how tumor cells produce energy in oxygen-depleted microenvironments, we studied the possibility of mitochondrial electron transport without oxygen. We produced well-controlled oxygen gradients (ΔO2) in monolayer-cultured cells. We then visualized oxygen levels and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΦm) in individual cells by using the red shift of green fluorescent protein (GFP) fluorescence and a cationic fluorescent dye, respectively. In this two-dimensional tissue model, ΔΦm was abolished in cells >500 μm from the oxygen source [the anoxic front (AF)], indicating limitations in diffusional oxygen delivery. This result perfectly matched GFP-determined ΔO2. In cells pretreated with dimethyloxaloylglycine (DMOG), a prolyl hydroxylase domain-containing protein (PHD) inhibitor, the AF was expanded to 1,500–2,000 μm from the source. In these cells, tissue ΔO2 was substantially decreased, indicating that PHD pathway activation suppressed mitochondrial respiration. The expansion of the AF and the reduction of ΔO2 were much more prominent in a cancer cell line (Hep3B) than in the equivalent fibroblast-like cell line (COS-7). Hence, the results indicate that PHD pathway-activated cells can sustain ΔΦm, despite significantly decreased electron flux to complex IV. Complex II inhibition abolished the effect of DMOG in expanding the AF, although tissue ΔO2 remained shallow. Separate experiments demonstrated that complex II plays a substantial role in sustaining ΔΦm in DMOG-pretreated Hep3B cells with complex III inhibition. From these results, we conclude that PHD pathway activation can sustain ΔΦm in an otherwise anoxic microenvironment by decreasing tissue ΔO2 while activating oxygen-independent electron transport in mitochondria.
Renal adaptation during hibernation
Authors: Jani Alkesh , Martin Sandra L. , Jain Swati , Keys Daniel , Edelstein Charles L.
Published: September 2013

Hibernators periodically undergo profound physiological changes including dramatic reductions in metabolic, heart, and respiratory rates and core body temperature. This review discusses the effect of hypoperfusion and hypothermia observed during hibernation on glomerular filtration and renal plasma flow, as well as specific adaptations in renal architecture, vasculature, the renin-angiotensin system, and upregulation of possible protective mechanisms during the extreme conditions endured by hibernating mammals. Understanding the mechanisms of protection against organ injury during hibernation may provide insights into potential therapies for organ injury during cold storage and reimplantation during transplantation.
Frontoparietal regions may become hypoactive after intermittent theta burst stimulation over the contralateral homologous cortex in humans
Authors: He Xiaofei , Lan Yue , Xu Guangqing , Mao Yurong , Chen Zhenghong , Huang Dongfeng , Pei Zhong
Published: September 2013

Brain injury to the dorsal frontoparietal networks, including the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), commonly cause spatial neglect. However, the interaction of these different regions in spatial attention is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether hyperexcitable neural networks can cause an abnormal interhemispheric inhibition. The Attention Network Test was used to test subjects following intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) to the left or right frontoparietal networks. During the Attention Network Test task, all subjects tolerated each conditioning iTBS without any obvious iTBS-related side effects. Subjects receiving real-right-PPC iTBS showed significant enhancement in both alerting and orienting efficiency compared with those receiving either sham-right-PPC iTBS or real-left-PPC iTBS. Moreover, subjects exposed to the real-right-DLPFC iTBS exhibited significant improvement in both alerting and executive control efficiency, compared with those exposed to either the sham-right-DLPFC or real-left-DLPFC conditioning. Interestingly, compared with subjects exposed to the sham-left-PPC stimuli, subjects exposed to the real-left-PPC iTBS had a significant deficit in the orienting index. The present study indicates that iTBS over the contralateral homologous cortex may induce the hypoactivity of the right PPC through interhemispheric competition in spatial orienting attention.
Anesthesia differentially modulates spontaneous network dynamics by cortical area and layer
Authors: Sellers Kristin K. , Bennett Davis V. , Hutt Axel , Fröhlich Flavio
Published: September 2013

Anesthesia is widely used in medicine and research to achieve altered states of consciousness and cognition. Whereas changes to macroscopic cortical activity patterns by anesthesia measured at the spatial resolution of electroencephalography have been widely studied, modulation of mesoscopic and microscopic network dynamics by anesthesia remain poorly understood. To address this gap in knowledge, we recorded spontaneous mesoscopic (local field potential) and microscopic (multiunit activity) network dynamics in primary visual cortex (V1) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) of awake and isoflurane anesthetized ferrets ( Mustela putoris furo). This approach allowed for examination of activity as a function of cortical area, cortical layer, and anesthetic depth with much higher spatial and temporal resolution than in previous studies. We hypothesized that a primary sensory area and an association cortical area would exhibit different patterns of network modulation by anesthesia due to their different functional roles. Indeed, we found effects specific to cortical area and cortical layer. V1 exhibited minimal changes in rhythmic structure with anesthesia but differential modulation of input layer IV. In contrast, anesthesia profoundly altered spectral power in PFC, with more uniform modulation across cortical layers. Our results demonstrate that anesthesia modulates spontaneous cortical activity in an area- and layer-specific manner. These finding provide the basis for 1) refining anesthesia monitoring algorithms, 2) reevaluating the large number of systems neuroscience studies performed in anesthetized animals, and 3) increasing our understanding of differential dynamics across cortical layers and areas.
Videocapillaroscopic Alterations in Alopecia Areata
Authors: Gerkowicz Agnieszka , Krasowska Dorota , Pietrzak Aldona , Michalak-Stoma Anna , Bartosińska Joanna , Juszkiewicz-Borowiec Maria , Chodorowska Grażyna
Published: September 2013

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common hair disorder observed in dermatological practice; however, the exact mechanisms that lead to the hair loss are still unknown. Disturbances in the blood supply of hair follicles may be one of the elements in the complex pathogenesis of AA. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy is a noninvasive technique that allows analysis of skin microcirculation in vivo. The aim of the study was the videocapillaroscopic assessment of skin microcirculation in AA patients. The study included 44 patients with patchy alopecia areata, 27 with alopecia universalis or totalis, and 40 healthy volunteers. Nailfold videocapillaroscopy was performed in all participants according to a standard protocol. Obtained images were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively. Two types of videocapillaroscopic images were distinguished in the study. Abnormal videocapillaroscopic images were found in 42% of patients. Tortuous and branching capillaries (, ), decreased density of capillaries (), enlargement of the efferent limb (), or top part of the loop () were observed significantly more often than in the control group. Only some patients with AA presented with microvascular abnormalities characterised by altered videocapillaroscopic images. More studies, including larger group of patients with AA, are required to determine the role of observed videocapillaroscopic alterations in AA.
Protocol for Evaluation of Robotic Technology in Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Masjedi Milad , Jaffry Zahra , Harris Simon , Cobb Justin
Published: September 2013

In recent years, robots have become commonplace in surgical procedures due to their high accuracy and repeatability. The Acrobot Sculptor is an example of such a robot that can assist with unicompartmental knee replacement. In this study, we aim to evaluate the accuracy of the robot (software and hardware) in a clinical setting. We looked at (1) segmentation by comparing the segmented data from Sculptor software to other commercial software, (2) registration by checking the inter- and intraobserver repeatability of selecting set points, and finally (3) sculpting (n=9cases) by evaluating the achieved implant position and orientation relative to that planned. The results from segmentation and registration were found to be accurate. The highest error was observed in flexion extension orientation of femoral implant (0.4±3.7°). Mean compound rotational and translational errors for both components were2.1±0.6 mm and3±0.8° for tibia and2.4±1.2 mm and4.3±1.4° for the femur. The results from all processes used in Acrobot were small. Validation of robot in clinical settings is highly vital to ensure a good outcome for patients. It is therefore recommended to follow the protocol used here on other available similar products.
Vulvar Malignancy in Neurofibromatosis Syndrome
Authors: Musella Angela , Palaia Innocenza , Domenici Lavinia , Casorelli Assunta , Martoccia Angela , Benedetti Panici Pierluigi
Published: September 2013

Type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF1) is a dominantly inherited neurologic disorder that affects primarily the skin, bones, and peripheral nervous system. It may be associated with a variety of clinical manifestations including cafe-au-lait spots, skinfold freckling, Lisch nodules, and visceral neurofibromas. Individuals affected by NF1 harbor an increased risk for both benign and malignant tumors. Malignant transformation is usually observed in the form of neurosarcoma. Rarely, NF1 affects the genital tract, and isolated vulvar localization is extremely rare. Here is reported a rare case of a solitary neurosarcoma of the vulva in a 43-year-old woman affected by NF1 syndrome treated with surgical excision. The purpose of this case is to underline the possibility of association between NF1 and genital tract sarcoma and to suggest an accurate evaluation of rapid growth vulvar mass in this setting.
Evaluation of Stream Mining Classifiers for Real-Time Clinical Decision Support System: A Case Study of Blood Glucose Prediction in Diabetes Therapy
Authors: Fong Simon , Zhang Yang , Fiaidhi Jinan , Mohammed Osama , Mohammed Sabah
Published: September 2013

Earlier on, a conceptual design on the real-time clinical decision support system (rt-CDSS) with data stream mining was proposed and published. The new system is introduced that can analyze medical data streams and can make real-time prediction. This system is based on a stream mining algorithm called VFDT. The VFDT is extended with the capability of using pointers to allow the decision tree to remember the mapping relationship between leaf nodes and the history records. In this paper, which is a sequel to the rt-CDSS design, several popular machine learning algorithms are investigated for their suitability to be a candidate in the implementation of classifier at the rt-CDSS. A classifier essentially needs to accurately map the events inputted to the system into one of the several predefined classes of assessments, such that the rt-CDSS can follow up with the prescribed remedies being recommended to the clinicians. For a real-time system like rt-CDSS, the major technological challenges lie in the capability of the classifier to process, analyze and classify the dynamic input data, quickly and upmost reliably. An experimental comparison is conducted. This paper contributes to the insight of choosing and embedding a stream mining classifier into rt-CDSS with a case study of diabetes therapy.
Immediate Cementless Hemiarthroplasty for Severe Destructive Glenohumeral Tuberculous Arthritis
Authors: Luenam Suriya , Kosiyatrakul Arkaphat
Published: September 2013

The glenohumeral joint tuberculosis (TB) is rare as compared with other joints. Plaster immobilization, arthrodesis, and resection arthroplasty have been proposed as the additional treatments with anti-TB medications in severe destructive arthritis. To our knowledge, however, the surgical treatment with shoulder arthroplasty has never been reported. We present two cases of active TB with unsalvageable glenohumeral joint. The cementless hemishoulder arthroplasties were performed immediately following the radical debridement. Anti-TB medications were given for 12 months after the surgery. Postoperatively, the patients were satisfied with the rapid symptomatic relief and significant functional recovery. With the follow-up period of 5 years, the operative results were still satisfactory and the reactivation of the infection was not detected.
Early Continence Recovery after Preservation of Maximal Urethral Length until the Level of Verumontanum during Radical Prostatectomy: Primary Oncological and Functional Outcomes after 1 Year of Follow-Up
Authors: Sfoungaristos Stavros , Kontogiannis Stavros , Perimenis Petros
Published: September 2013

Purpose. To investigate the effect of preventing maximal urethral length until the level of verumontanum during radical prostatectomy on both oncologic and functional outcomes.Patients and Methods. We recruited 329 patients, and they underwent an open radical prostatectomy by a single surgeon. The study cohort was randomized in 2 groups. A standard radical prostatectomy was performed in group A patients, while in group B the urethra was preserved until the level of verumontanum.Results. There was no statistically significant difference between the study groups in terms of positive surgical margins or biochemical relapse. Regarding the functional results, the incidence of incontinence, urgency, and nocturia at 1st month, statistically significant higher rates were seen in group A. In addition, there was a statistically significant difference in the number of pads/day in favor of group B at the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months after surgery. However, this difference was eliminated at 12 months postoperatively. Similar results were seen with the scores of the ICIQ-SF and IIQ-SF questionnaires.Conclusions. Without compromising the oncological outcome, our surgical modificated technique showed earlier recovery of continence in the first 6 months, having though the same rates of continence at 12 months.
Biomimetic Mineralization on a Macroporous Cellulose-Based Matrix for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Petrauskaite Odeta , Gomes Pedro de Sousa , Fernandes Maria Helena , Juodzbalys Gintaras , Stumbras Arturas , Maminskas Julius , Liesiene Jolanta , Cicciù Marco
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study is to investigate the biomimetic mineralization on a cellulose-based porous matrix with an improved biological profile. The cellulose matrix was precalcified using three methods: (i) cellulose samples were treated with a solution of calcium chloride and diammonium hydrogen phosphate; (ii) the carboxymethylated cellulose matrix was stored in a saturated calcium hydroxide solution; (iii) the cellulose matrix was mixed with a calcium silicate solution in order to introduce silanol groups and to combine them with calcium ions. All the methods resulted in a mineralization of the cellulose surfaces after immersion in a simulated body fluid solution. Over a period of 14 days, the matrix was completely covered with hydroxyapatite crystals. Hydroxyapatite formation depended on functional groups on the matrix surface as well as on the precalcification method. The largest hydroxyapatite crystals were obtained on the carboxymethylated cellulose matrix treated with calcium hydroxide solution. The porous cellulose matrix was not cytotoxic, allowing the adhesion and proliferation of human osteoblastic cells. Comparatively, improved cell adhesion and growth rate were achieved on the mineralized cellulose matrices.
Solutions and Conservation Laws of a (2+1)-Dimensional Boussinesq Equation
Authors: Moleleki Letlhogonolo Daddy , Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: September 2013

We study a nonlinear evolution partial differential equation, namely, the (2+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation. For the first time Lie symmetry method together with simplest equation method is used to find the exact solutions of the (2+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation. Furthermore, the new conservation theorem due to Ibragimov will be utilized to construct the conservation laws of the (2+1)-dimensional Boussinesq equation.