bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell surface serine protease matriptase-2 suppresses fetuin-A/AHSG-mediated induction of hepcidin
Authors: Stirnberg Marit , Maurer Eva , Arenz Katharina , Babler Anne , Jahnen-Dechent Willi , Gütschow Michael
Published: September 2014

Matriptase-2 is a type II transmembrane serine protease controlling the expression of hepcidin, the key regulator of iron homeostasis. By cleaving hemojuvelin, matriptase-2 suppresses bone morphogenetic protein/sons of mothers against decapentaplegic signaling. So far, the only known putative substrates of matriptase-2 are hemojuvelin and matriptase-2 itself. In this study, fetuin-A (α2-Heremans-Schmid glycoprotein) was identified in vitro as a substrate of matriptase-2. The protease–substrate interaction was validated by isolating matriptase-2 via the affinity to fetuin-A. Fetuin-A is a liver-derived plasma protein with multiple functions, which is proteolytically processed to yield a disulfide-linked two-chain form. In co-transfected cells, a matriptase-2-dependent conversion of unprocessed fetuin-A into a two-chain form was detected. Conversely, downregulation of endogenously expressed matriptase-2 stabilized fetuin-A. Arg and Lys residues located within the 40 residue spanning connecting peptide of fetuin-A were identified as cleavage sites for matriptase-2. Analysis of hepcidin expression revealed an inductive effect of fetuin-A, which was abolished by matriptase-2. Fetuin-A deficiency in mice resulted in decreased hepcidin mRNA levels. These findings implicate a role of fetuin-A in iron homeostasis and provide new insights into the mechanism of how matriptase-2 might modulate hepcidin expression.
Epigenetic control of hematopoiesis: the PU.1 chromatin connection
Authors: van Riel Boet , Rosenbauer Frank
Published: September 2014

Purine-rich box1 (PU.1) is a transcription factor that not only has a key role in the development of most hematopoietic cell lineages but also in the suppression of leukemia. To exert these functions, PU.1 can cross-talk with multiple different proteins by forming complexes in order to activate or repress transcription. Among its protein partners are chromatin remodelers, DNA methyltransferases, and a number of other transcription factors with important roles in hematopoiesis. While a great deal of knowledge has been acquired about PU.1 function over the years, it was the development of novel genome-wide technologies, which boosted our understanding of how PU.1 acts on the chromatin to drive its repertoire of target genes. This review summarizes current knowledge and ideas of molecular mechanisms by which PU.1 controls hematopoiesis and suppresses leukemia.
Central role of the Na+-translocating NADH:quinone oxidoreductase (Na+-NQR) in sodium bioenergetics of Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Steuber Julia , Halang Petra , Vorburger Thomas , Steffen Wojtek , Vohl Georg , Fritz Günter
Published: September 2014

Vibrio cholerae is a Gram-negative bacterium that lives in brackish or sea water environments. Strains of V. cholerae carrying the pathogenicity islands infect the human gut and cause the fatal disease cholera. Vibrio cholerae maintains a Na+ gradient at its cytoplasmic membrane that drives substrate uptake, motility, and efflux of antibiotics. Here, we summarize the major Na+-dependent transport processes and describe the central role of the Na+-translocating NADH:quinone oxidoreductase (Na+-NQR), a primary Na+ pump, in maintaining a Na+-motive force. The Na+-NQR is a membrane protein complex with a mass of about 220 kDa that couples the exergonic oxidation of NADH to the transport of Na+ across the cytoplasmic membrane. We describe the molecular architecture of this respiratory complex and summarize the findings how electron transport might be coupled to Na+-translocation. Moreover, recent advances in the determination of the three-dimensional structure of this complex are reported.
Transesophageal Echocardiography-guided Minimally Invasive Surgical Device Closure of an Unusually Shaped Residual Ventricular Septal Defect in a Child
Authors: Gao Lei , Wu Qin , Xu Xinhua , Zhao Tianli , Jin Wancun , Yang Yifeng
Published: September 2014

Closure of residual ventricular septal defect with an occluder is traditionally performed by a percutaneous transcatheter approach under radiographic guidance. However, this procedure may be of limited use in cases with unusually shaped defects and in patients with low body weight. Here, we report minimally invasive surgical device closure of a 6 mm residual ventricular septal defect under transesophageal echocardiographic guidance, in a patient weighing 10 kg that had previously undergone surgical correction of a double outlet right ventricle. The defect was positioned in the suture line between the Gore-Tex vascular graft and the remnant ventricular septum, and was unusual in that it formed a 135� angle with the Gore-Tex graft. The defect was closed successfully with a 10 mm asymmetric occluder. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of transesophageal echocardiography-guided minimally invasive surgical device closure of an unusually shaped residual ventricular septal defect after surgical correction of a double-outlet right ventricle.
Successful Rescue from Cardiac Arrest in a Patient with Postinfarction Left Ventricular Blow-Out Rupture: "Extra-Pericardial Aortic Cannulation" for Establishment Total Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Ohira Suguru , Yaku Hitoshi , Nakajima Shunsuke , Takahashi Akihiko
Published: September 2014

We report a quick and simple technique to establish cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in a left ventricular (LV) blow-out rupture. A 74-year-old woman with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness. A venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) device was inserted by femoral cannulation. Emergent median sternotomy was performed. The pericardium was not opened first, and the thymus was divided to expose the ascending aorta just above the pericardial reflection. After placing two purse-string sutures on the distal ascending aorta, a 7-mm aortic cannula (Terumo, Tokyo, Japan) was inserted. The pericardium was then incised. A large volume of blood was expelled from the pericardial space, and CPB was initiated with suction drainage. A two-stage venous drainage cannula was then inserted from the right atrial appendage without hemodynamic collapse. After cardiac arrest, closure of ruptured LV wall and concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting were performed. The patient was weaned from CPB with an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and the previously inserted venous-arterial ECMO. Extra-pericardial aortic cannulation is an effective and reproducible method to prepare for CPB in emergent cases of LV rupture.
Case report: New treatment with Tolvaptan for heart failure after cardiac surgery
Authors: Sezai Akira , Iida Mitsuru , Yoshitake Isamu , Osaka Shunji , Hata Hiroaki , Shiono Motomi
Published: September 2014

The vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist (Tolvaptan) is a new diuretic that selectively promotes the excretion of water. It has been reported to be effective for patients in cardiology, but there have been no reports of its use in the perioperative period after cardiac surgery. We report the usefulness of Tolvaptan for postoperative fluid management in a patient with severe mitral regurgitation due to ischemic cardiomyopathy. Marked improvement was achieved after administration of Tolvaptan for heart failure in the postoperative period.
Multidisciplinary Handoffs Improve Perceptions of Communication
Authors: Solan Lauren G. , Yau Connie , Sucharew Heidi , O’Toole Jennifer K.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Communication errors during handoffs are a leading cause of sentinel events. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education 2011 duty hour standards (DHS) increase the frequency of handoffs.

Objective:

The goal of this study was to determine if a multidisciplinary group handoff bundle improves communication while working within the 2011 DHS.

Methods:

During 1-month pilot programs of the 2011 DHS, 2 groups were observed. Group A adopted a multidisciplinary group handoff bundle, including presence of residents and charge nurses, a standardized mnemonic in verbal and written form, and resident training. Group B received only a mnemonic pocket card. Residents completed preintervention and postintervention Likert scale surveys to assess handoff perceptions. Within-group preintervention to postintervention changes were analyzed by using the signed rank test. Measuring communication errors, an institutional tool was used to track unanticipated patient occurrences (UPOs) postintervention for both groups.

Results:

Significant improvements for the preintervention to postintervention surveys regarding the perceptions of quality of handoffs received, effective and efficient delivery of handoffs, comfort in giving handoffs, and handoff practices focusing on safety (all, P ≤ .05) were observed in group A. There were no significant changes in group B. Overall, 17% of collected group A UPO forms and 11% of group B UPO forms had at least 1 UPO recorded. The most common reason for a UPO was unaddressed nursing concerns.

Conclusions:

A multidisciplinary group of residents and charge nurses and a handoff bundle was associated with improved resident perceptions of handoffs and communication within the 2011 DHS.
Resource Utilization of Pediatric Patients Exposed to Venom
Authors: Narra Aneesha , Lie Erina , Hall Matthew , Macy Michelle , Alpern Elizabeth , Shah Samir S. , Osterhoudt Kevin C. , Fieldston Evan
Published: September 2014

Background And Objective:

Treating envenomation with antivenom is costly. Many patients being treated with antivenom are in observation status, a billing designation for patients considered to need care that is less resource-intensive, and less expensive, than inpatient care. Observation status is also associated with lower hospital reimbursements and higher patient cost-sharing. The goal of this study was to examine resource utilization for treatment of envenomation under observation and inpatient status, and to compare patients in observation status receiving antivenom with all other patients in observation status.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of patients with a primary diagnosis of toxic effect of venom seen during 2009 at 33 freestanding children’s hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System. Data on age, length of stay, adjusted costs (ratio cost to charges), ICU flags, and antivenom utilization were collected. Comparisons were conducted according to admission status (emergency department only, observation status, and inpatient status), and between patients in observation status receiving antivenom and patients in observation status with other diagnoses.

Results:

A total of 2755 patients had a primary diagnosis of toxic effect of venom. Of the 335 hospitalized, either under observation (n = 124) or inpatient (n = 211) status, 107 (31.9%) received antivenom. Of those hospitalized patients receiving antivenom, 24 (22.4%) were designated as observation status. Costs were substantially higher for patients who received antivenom and were driven by pharmacy costs (mean cost: $17 665 for observation status, $20 503 for inpatient status). Mean costs for the 47 162 patients in observation status with other diagnoses were $3001 compared with $17 665 for observation-status patients who received antivenom.

Conclusions:

Treatment of envenomation with antivenom represents a high-cost outlier within observation-status hospitalizations. Observation status can have financial consequences for hospitals and patients.
Intraoperative Parathyroid Hormone Monitoring in Neonatal Severe Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: García-García Emilio , Domínguez-Pascual Inmaculada , Requena-Díaz Mercedes , Cabello-Laureano Rosa , Fernández-Pineda Israel , Sánchez-Martín María J.
Published: September 2014

Neonatal severe primary hyperparathyroidism presents in the first days of life with severe life-threatening hypercalcemia. It is associated with an inactivating homozygous mutation of the calcium sensing receptor gene. Total parathyroidectomy is the treatment of choice, so the surgeon must identify all the parathyroid tissue, including supernumerary and ectopic glands. We present the case of an infant who underwent total parathyroidectomy at age 4 months in which intraoperative parathyroid hormone monitoring provided immediate confirmation of surgical cure.
Use of Neonatal Chest Ultrasound to Predict Noninvasive Ventilation Failure
Authors: Raimondi Francesco , Migliaro Fiorella , Sodano Angela , Ferrara Teresa , Lama Silvia , Vallone Gianfranco , Capasso Letizia
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

Noninvasive ventilation is the treatment of choice for neonatal moderate respiratory distress (RD). Predictors of nasal ventilation failure are helpful in preventing clinical deterioration. Work on neonatal lung ultrasound has shown that the persistence of a hyperechogenic, “white lung” image correlates with severe distress in the preterm infant. We investigate the persistent white lung ultrasound image as a marker of noninvasive ventilation failure.

METHODS:

Newborns admitted to the NICU with moderate RD and stabilized on nasal continuous positive airway pressure for 120 minutes were enrolled. Lung ultrasound was performed and blindly classified as type 1 (white lung), type 2 (prevalence of B-lines), or type 3 (prevalence of A-lines). Chest radiograph also was examined and graded by an experienced radiologist blind to the infant’s clinical condition. Outcome of the study was the accuracy of bilateral type 1 to predict intubation within 24 hours from scanning. Secondary outcome was the performance of the highest radiographic grade within the same time interval.

RESULTS:

We enrolled 54 infants (gestational age 32.5 ± 2.6 weeks; birth weight 1703 ± 583 g). Type 1 lung profile showed sensitivity 88.9%, specificity 100%, positive predictive value 100%, and negative predictive value 94.7%. Chest radiograph had sensitivity 38.9%, specificity 77.8%, positive predictive value 46.7%, and negative predictive value 71.8%.

CONCLUSIONS:

After a 2-hour nasal ventilation trial, neonatal lung ultrasound is a useful predictor of the need for intubation, largely outperforming conventional radiology. Future studies should address whether including ultrasonography in the management of neonatal moderate RD confers clinical advantages.
Maintenance of Certification Part 4 Credit and Recruitment for Practice-Based Research
Authors: Gorzkowski Julie A. , Klein Jonathan D. , Harris Donna L. , Kaseeska Kristen R. , Whitmore Shaefer Regina M. , Bocian Alison B. , Davis James B. , Gotlieb Edward M. , Wasserman Richard C.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND:

Competing priorities in pediatric practice have created challenges for practice-based research. To increase recruitment success, researchers must design studies that provide added value to participants. This study evaluates recruitment of pediatricians into a study, before and after the development and addition of a quality improvement (QI) curriculum approved for American Board of Pediatrics Maintenance of Certification (MOC) Part 4 Credit as an enrollment incentive.

METHODS:

Researchers implemented multiple outreach methods to enroll pediatric practices over 28 months. Field note review revealed that many physicians declined enrollment, stating that they prioritized MOC Part 4 projects over research studies. A QI curriculum meeting standards for MOC Part 4 Credit was developed and added to the study protocol as an enrollment incentive. Enrollment rates and characteristics of practitioners enrolled pre- and post-MOC were compared.

RESULTS:

Pre-MOC enrollment contributed 48% of practices in 22 months; post-MOC enrollment contributed 49% of practices in 6 months. An average of 3.5 practices enrolled per month pre-MOC, compared with 13.1 per month post-MOC (P < .001). Clinicians in pre- and post-MOC groups were similar in age, gender, race, and time spent on patient care; practices enrolled post-MOC were more likely to be located in federally designated Medically Underserved Areas than those enrolled pre-MOC (28.6% vs 12%, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS:

Addition of MOC Part 4 Credit increased recruitment success and increased enrollment of pediatricians working in underserved areas. Including QI initiatives meeting MOC Part 4 criteria in practice-based research protocols may enhance participation and aid in recruiting diverse practice and patient populations.
ADHD, Stimulant Treatment, and Growth: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Harstad Elizabeth B. , Weaver Amy L. , Katusic Slavica K. , Colligan Robert C. , Kumar Seema , Chan Eugenia , Voigt Robert G. , Barbaresi William J.
Published: September 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

There is ongoing concern that stimulant medications may adversely affect growth. In a sample of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cases and controls from a population-based birth cohort, we assessed growth and the association between stimulant treatment and growth.

METHODS:

Subjects included childhood ADHD cases (N = 340) and controls (N = 680) from a 1976 to 1982 birth cohort (N = 5718). Height and stimulant treatment information were abstracted from medical records and obtained during a prospective, adult follow-up study. For each subject, a parametric penalized spline smoothing method modeled height over time, and the corresponding height velocity was calculated as the first derivative. Peak height velocity (PHV) age and magnitude were estimated from the velocity curves. Among stimulant-treated ADHD cases, we analyzed height Z scores at the beginning, at the end, and 24 months after the end of treatment.

RESULTS:

Neither ADHD itself nor treatment with stimulants was associated with differences in magnitude of PHV or final adult height. Among boys treated with stimulants, there was a positive correlation between duration of stimulant usage before PHV and age at PHV (r = 0.21, P = .01). There was no significant correlation between duration of treatment and change in height Z scores (r = −0.08 for beginning vs end change, r = 0.01 for end vs 24 months later change). Among the 59 ADHD cases treated for ≥3 years, there was a clinically insignificant decrease in mean Z score from beginning (0.48) to end (0.33) of treatment (P = .06).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings suggest that ADHD treatment with stimulant medication is not associated with differences in adult height or significant changes in growth.
Methods for the Year 6 Follow-Up Study of Children in the Infant Feeding Practices Study II
Authors: Fein Sara B. , Li Ruowei , Chen Jian , Scanlon Kelley S. , Grummer-Strawn Laurence M.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE:

We describe methods used in the Year 6 Follow-Up (Y6FU) of children who participated in the Infant Feeding Practices Study II (IFPSII). This study consists of a questionnaire administered 6 years after the IFPSII to characterize the health, development, and diet quality of the children.

METHODS:

The Y6FU sample was a subset of those who participated in IFPSII. The IFPSII participants were drawn from a national consumer opinion panel; neither the IFPSII nor the Y6FU sample is nationally representative. The Y6FU sampling frame included all qualified participants who answered at least the first postnatal questionnaire. One questionnaire was administered by mail in 2012, and nonrespondents were contacted for a telephone interview. Survey topics included measures of health, development, diet, physical activity, screen time, and family medical history. We attempted to contact 2958 mothers and obtained completed questionnaires from 1542, a response rate of 52.1%. We conducted 2 sample evaluations, 1 comparing respondents and nonrespondents on data from IFPSII and the other comparing Y6FU respondents with 6-year-old participants in the National Survey of Children’s Health.

RESULTS:

Y6FU mothers are more likely to be white, married, older, and of higher education and income than both nonresponders and nationally representative mothers. Comparisons also revealed health-related differences and similarities.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although not nationally representative, the Y6FU provides a valuable database because of its wide coverage of diet and health issues and its unique ability to link early feeding patterns with outcomes at age 6 years.
Fruit and Vegetable Intake During Infancy and Early Childhood
Authors: Grimm Kirsten A. , Kim Sonia A. , Yaroch Amy L. , Scanlon Kelley S.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To examine the association of timing of introduction and frequency of fruit and vegetable intake during infancy with frequency of fruit and vegetable intake at age 6 years in a cohort of US children.

METHODS:

We analyzed data on fruit and vegetable intake during late infancy, age of fruit and vegetable introduction, and frequency of fruit and vegetable intake at 6 years from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II and the Year 6 Follow-Up (Y6FU) Study. We determined the percent of 6-year-old children consuming fruits and vegetables less than once per day and examined associations with infant fruit and vegetable intake using logistic regression modeling, controlling for multiple covariates (n = 1078).

RESULTS:

Based on maternal report, 31.9% of 6-year-old children consumed fruit less than once daily and 19.0% consumed vegetables less than once daily. In adjusted analyses, children who consumed fruits and vegetables less than once daily during late infancy had increased odds of eating fruits and vegetables less than once daily at age 6 years (fruit, adjusted odds ratio: 2.48; vegetables, adjusted odds ratio: 2.40). Age of introduction of fruits and vegetables was not associated with intake at age 6 years.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study suggests that infrequent intake of fruits and vegetables during late infancy is associated with infrequent intake of these foods at 6 years of age. These findings highlight the importance of infant feeding guidance that encourages intake of fruits and vegetables and the need to examine barriers to fruit and vegetable intake during infancy.
Fishery management priorities vary with self‐recruitment in sedentary marine populations
Authors: Yau Annie J. , Lenihan Hunter S. , Kendall Bruce E.
Published: September 2014

Fisheries science often uses population models that assume no external recruitment, but nearshore marine populations harvested on small scales of <200 km often exhibit an unknown mix of self‐recruitment and recruitment from external sources. Since empirical determination of self‐recruitment vs. external recruitment is difficult, we used a modeling approach to examine the sensitivity of fishery management priorities to recruitment assumptions (self [closed], external [open]) in a local population of harvested giant clams (Tridacna maxima) on Mo'orea, French Polynesia. From 2006 to 2010, we measured growth, fecundity, recruitment, and survival (resulting from natural and fishing mortality). We used these data to parameterize both a closed (complete self‐recruitment) and an open (no self‐recruitment) integral projection model (IPM), and then calculated elasticities of demographic rates (growth, survival, recruitment) to future population abundance in 20 years. The models' lowest projected abundance was 93.4% (95% CI, [86.5%, 101.8%]) of present abundance, if the local population is entirely open and the present level of fishing mortality persists. The population will exhibit self‐sustaining dynamics (1 ≤ λ ≤ 1.07) as for a closed population if the ratio of self‐recruits per gram of dry gonad is >0.775 (equivalent to 52.85% self‐recruitment under present conditions). Elasticity analysis of demographic parameters indicated that future abundance can most effectively be influenced by increasing survival of mid‐sized clams (∼80–120 mm) if the population is self‐sustaining, and by increasing survival of juvenile clams (∼40–70 mm) if the population is non‐self‐sustaining (as for an open population). Our results illustrate that management priorities can vary depending on the amount of self‐recruitment in a local population.
Inversion of particle size distribution by spectral extinction technique using the attractive and repulsive particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Qi Hong , He Zhen-Zong , Gong Shuai , Ruan Li-Ming
Published: September 2014

The particle size distribution (PSD) plays an important role in environmental
pollution detection and human health protection, such as fog, haze and soot.
In this study, the Attractive and Repulsive Particle Swarm Optimization
(ARPSO) algorithm and the basic PSO were applied to retrieve the PSD. The
spectral extinction technique coupled with the Anomalous Diffraction
Approximation (ADA) and the Lambert-Beer Law were employed to investigate
the retrieval of the PSD. Three commonly used monomodal PSDs, i.e. the
Rosin-Rammer (R-R) distribution, the normal (N-N) distribution, the
logarithmic normal (L-N) distribution were studied in the dependent model.
Then, an optimal wavelengths selection algorithm was proposed. To study the
accuracy and robustness of the inverse results, some characteristic
parameters were employed. The research revealed that the ARPSO showed more
accurate and faster convergence rate than the basic PSO, even with random
measurement error. Moreover, the investigation also demonstrated that the
inverse results of four incident laser wavelengths showed more accurate and
robust than those of two wavelengths. The research also found that if
increasing the interval of the selected incident laser wavelengths, inverse
results would show more accurate, even in the presence of random error.
Clinical outcome after diagnosis of hemophilia A in dogs
Authors: Aslanian Mary E. , Sharp Claire R. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , de Laforcade Armelle M. , Rishniw Mark , Brooks Marjory B.
Published: September 2014

Objective—To evaluate the clinical course of dogs with hemophilia A (factor VIII deficiency) and to determine whether factor VIII coagulant activity (FVIII:C) was associated with severity of clinical signs and outcome.

Design—Survey study.

Sample—Respondent information for 39 client-owned dogs with FVIII deficiency.

Procedures—Information was obtained via a survey distributed to the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care email list serves and to the Veterinary Information Network community to identify dogs with hemophilia A (FVIII:C ≤ 20%). Severity of FVIII deficiency was classified as mild (FVIII:C, 6% to 20%), moderate (FVIII:C, 2% to 5%), or severe (FVIII:C, < 2%).

Results—Data for 39 dogs (38 males and 1 female) were compiled. Mixed-breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs, and Labrador Retrievers were most commonly affected. In most (34/39) dogs, disease was diagnosed at < 1 year of age. Bleeding associated with teething, minor trauma, vaccination, and elective surgical procedures most commonly prompted FVIII:C testing. Affected dogs had similar signs of spontaneous hemorrhage regardless of the magnitude of FVIII deficiency. Four dogs were euthanized without treatment at the time of diagnosis. Thirty dogs received ≥ 1 blood transfusion; FVIII:C did not appear to influence transfusion requirements.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that dogs with hemophilia A have variations in clinical course of the disease and may have a good long-term prognosis. Residual FVIII:C may not be useful for predicting severity of clinical signs, transfusion needs, or long-term prognosis.
Korous Type Inequalities for Orthogonal Polynomials in two Variables
Authors: Ftorek Branislav , Oršansky Pavol
Published: September 2014

J. Korous reached an important result for general orthogonal polynomials in one variable. He dealt with the boundedness and uniform boundedness of polynomials { Pn(x)}∞
n=0 orthonormal with the weight function

h(x) = δ(x) ̃h(x),

where ̃h(x) is the weight function of another system of polynomials { ̃Pn(x) }∞
n=0 orthonormal in the same interval and

δ(x) ≥ δ0 > 0

is a certain function. We generalize this result for orthogonal polynomials in two variables multiplying their weight function h(x, y) by a polynomial, dividing h(x, y) by a polynomial, and multiplying h(x, y) with separated variables by a certain function δ(x, y).
On Decomposition of Generalized Continuity
Authors: Bayhan Sadik , Kanibir Alev , Reilly Ivan L.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this paper is to obtain some decompositions of generalized continuity by providing some new variants of generalized continuous functions. Our partial success is an indication of significant differences between the theory of topological spaces and that of generalized topological spaces
Hot ductility behavior of near-alpha titanium alloy IMI834
Authors: Ghavam MohammadHadi , Morakabati Maryam , Abbasi Seyed Mahdi , Badri Hassan
Published: September 2014

The hot ductility of rolled IMI834 titanium alloy has been studied by conducting tensile tests with a strain rate of 0.1 s−1 and temperature range of 750–1 100 °C to obtain the optimum hot working conditions. The alloy showed minimum hot ductility in the lower alpha–beta region in the temperature range 750–950 °C. Further microstructural characterizations showed improvement in hot ductility by increasing temperature, which was attributed to reduction of volume fraction of high strength alpha phase. The best hot ductility was observed at 1 000 °C, i. e. in the upper alpha–beta region. The better hot ductility at higher temperature could be related to the increase in the volume fraction of beta phase and the occurrence of dynamic restoration phenomena. The second decline in hot ductility appeared at higher temperatures in the beta region and was attributed to the high stacking fault energy and self-diffusion of beta phase leading to limitation of dynamic recrystallization.
Effects of rotating magnetic and ultrasonic fields on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-8 wt.%Si alloy
Authors: Zhang Yubo , Chen Hang , Jie Jinchuan , Li Tingju
Published: September 2014

The application of physical fields is currently a common method to improve the solidification structure of Al alloys. In this study, rotating magnetic field (RMF) and power ultrasonic field (USF) were applied during the solidification process of Al-8 wt.%Si alloy. The experimental results have been compared to those of conventional casting and have verified that the alloys processed under individual RMF or USF exhibit obvious refinement in their solidification structure as well as an enhancement in the mechanical properties. However, the refinement under RMF is not fully effective, while the ultrasonically treated region is inadequate. For the case of the compound fields, it could be furthermore observed that these improvements become more pronounced. Owing to the advantages of both RMF and USF, RMF enlarges the ultrasonic treated region, and USF improves the refinement effect of RMF as well.
Belowground Competition Directs Spatial Patterns of Seedling Growth in Boreal Pine Forests in Fennoscandia
Authors: Axelsson E. , Lundmark Tomas , Högberg Peter , Nordin Annika
Published: September 2014

Aboveground competition is often argued to be the main process determining patterns of natural forest regeneration. However, the theory of multiple resource limitation suggests that seedling performance also depends on belowground competition and, thus, that their relative influence is of fundamental importance. Two approaches were used to address the relative importance of above- and below-ground competition on regeneration in a nutrient-poor pine (Pinus sylvestris) boreal forest. Firstly, seedling establishment beneath trees stem-girdled 12 years ago show that a substantial proportion of the seedlings were established within two years after girdling, which corresponds to a time when nutrient uptake by tree roots was severely reduced without disrupting water transport to the tree canopy, which consequently was maintained. The establishment during these two years also corresponds to abundances high enough for normal stand replacement. Secondly, surveys of regeneration within forest gaps showed that surrounding forests depressed seedlings, so that satisfactory growth occurred only more than 5 m from forest edges and that higher solar radiation in south facing edges was not enough to mediate these effects. We conclude that disruption of belowground competitive interactions mediates regeneration and, thus, that belowground competition has a strong limiting influence on seedling establishment in these forests.
Novel Sustained-Release of Propafenone through Pellets: Preparation and in Vitro/in Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Li , Jiang Ping , Liu Ji
Published: September 2014

In this study, an extrusion-spheronization method was applied successfully to fabricate propafenone hydrochloride (PPF) sustained-release pellets. Using scanning electron microscopy, it was shown that the PPF pellets had a mean size of approximately 950 µm with a spherical shape. The in vitro release profiles indicated that the release of PPF from the pellets exhibited a sustained release behavior. The relatively high correlation coefficient (r) values obtained from the analysis of the amount of the drug released versus the square root of time indicated that the release followed a zero order kinetic model. A similar phenomenon was also observed in a pharmacokinetic study in dogs, in which the area under the curve (AUC) of the pellet formulation was 1.2-fold higher than that of PPF tablets. The present work demonstrated the feasibility of controlled delivery of PPF utilizing microcrystalline cellulose (MCC)-based pellets.
Resveratrol Induces the Expression of Interleukin-10 and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in BV2 Microglia under Hypoxia
Authors: Song Juhyun , Cheon So , Jung Wonsug , Lee Won , Lee Jong
Published: September 2014

Microglia are the resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS) and play an important role in neuronal recovery by scavenging damaged neurons. However, overactivation of microglia leads to neuronal death that is associated with CNS disorders. Therefore, regulation of microglial activation has been suggested to be an important target for treatment of CNS diseases. In the present study, we investigated the beneficial effect of resveratrol, a natural phenol with antioxidant effects, in the microglial cell line, BV2, in a model of hypoxia injury. Resveratrol suppressed the mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory molecule, tumor necrosis factor-α, and promoted the mRNA expression of the anti-inflammatory molecule, interleukin-10, in BV2 microglia under hypoxic conditions. In addition, resveratrol inhibited the activation of the transcription factor, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), which is upstream in the control of inflammatory reactions in hypoxia-injured BV2 microglia. Moreover, resveratrol promoted the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in BV2 microglia under hypoxic stress. Overall, resveratrol may promote the beneficial function of microglia in ischemic brain injury.
The Influence of Deposition Methods of Support Layer on Cordierite Substrate on the Characteristics of a MnO2–NiO–Co3O4/Ce0.2Zr0.8O2/Cordierite Three Way Catalyst
Authors: Pham Phuong , Le Minh , Nguyen Tien , Bruneel Els , Van Driessche Isabel
Published: September 2014

This paper compares different coating methods (in situ solid combustion, hybrid deposition, secondary growth on seed, suspension, double deposition of wet impregnation and suspension) to deposit Ce0.2Zr0.8O2 mixed oxides on cordierite substrates, for use as a three way catalyst. Among them, the double deposition was proven to be the most efficient one. The coated sample shows a BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) surface area of 25 m2/g, combined with a dense and crack free surface. The catalyst with a layer of MnO2–NiO–Co3O4 mixed oxides on top of the Ce0.2Zr0.8O2/cordierite substrate prepared by this method exhibits good activity for the treatment of CO, NO and C3H6 in exhaust gases (CO conversion of 100% at 250 °C, C3H6 conversion of 100% at 400 °C and NO conversion of 40% at 400 °C).
Effects of Climatic Conditions and Soil Properties on Cabernet Sauvignon Berry Growth and Anthocyanin Profiles
Authors: Cheng Guo , He Yan-Nan , Yue Tai-Xin , Wang Jun , Zhang Zhen-Wen
Published: September 2014

Climatic conditions and soil type have significant influence on grape ripening and wine quality. The reported study was conducted in two “Cabernet Sauvignon (Vitis vinifera L.V)” vineyards located in Xinjiang, a semiarid wine-producing region of China during two vintages (2011 and 2012). The results indicate that soil and climate affected berry growth and anthocyanin profiles. These two localities were within a distance of 5 km from each other and had soils of different physical and chemical composition. For each vineyard, the differences of anthocyanin concentrations, and parameters concerning berry growth and composition between the two years could be explained by different climatic conditions. Soil effect was studied by investigation of differences in berry composition and anthocyanin profiles between the two vineyards in the same year, which could be explained mainly by the different soil properties, vine water and nitrogen status. Specifically, the soils with less water and organic matter produced looser clusters, heavier berry skins and higher TSS, which contributed to the excellent performance of grapes. Compared with 2011, the increases in anthocyanin concentrations for each vineyard in 2012 could be attributed to smaller number of extreme temperature (>35 °C) days and rainfall, lower vine water status and N level. The explanation for higher anthocyanin concentrations in grape skins from the soils with less water and organic matter could be the vine status differences, lighter berry weight and heavier skin weight at harvest. In particular, grapes from the soils with less water and organic matter had higher levels of 3′5′-substituded, O-methylated and acylated anthocyanins, which represented a positive characteristic conferring more stable pigmentation to the corresponding wine in the future. The present work clarifies the effects of climate and soil on berry growth and anthocyanin profiles, thus providing guidance for production of high-quality wine grapes in different regions.
Experimental Tools to Study Molecular Recognition within the Nanoparticle Corona
Authors: Landry Markita , Kruss Sebastian , Nelson Justin , Bisker Gili , Iverson Nicole , Reuel Nigel , Strano Michael
Published: September 2014

Advancements in optical nanosensor development have enabled the design of sensors using synthetic molecular recognition elements through a recently developed method called Corona Phase Molecular Recognition (CoPhMoRe). The synthetic sensors resulting from these design principles are highly selective for specific analytes, and demonstrate remarkable stability for use under a variety of conditions. An essential element of nanosensor development hinges on the ability to understand the interface between nanoparticles and the associated corona phase surrounding the nanosensor, an environment outside of the range of traditional characterization tools, such as NMR. This review discusses the need for new strategies and instrumentation to study the nanoparticle corona, operating in both in vitro and in vivo environments. Approaches to instrumentation must have the capacity to concurrently monitor nanosensor operation and the molecular changes in the corona phase. A detailed overview of new tools for the understanding of CoPhMoRe mechanisms is provided for future applications.
A Novel HMM Distributed Classifier for the Detection of Gait Phases by Means of a Wearable Inertial Sensor Network
Authors: Taborri Juri , Rossi Stefano , Palermo Eduardo , Patanè Fabrizio , Cappa Paolo
Published: September 2014

In this work, we decided to apply a hierarchical weighted decision, proposed and used in other research fields, for the recognition of gait phases. The developed and validated novel distributed classifier is based on hierarchical weighted decision from outputs of scalar Hidden Markov Models (HMM) applied to angular velocities of foot, shank, and thigh. The angular velocities of ten healthy subjects were acquired via three uni-axial gyroscopes embedded in inertial measurement units (IMUs) during one walking task, repeated three times, on a treadmill. After validating the novel distributed classifier and scalar and vectorial classifiers-already proposed in the literature, with a cross-validation, classifiers were compared for sensitivity, specificity, and computational load for all combinations of the three targeted anatomical segments. Moreover, the performance of the novel distributed classifier in the estimation of gait variability in terms of mean time and coefficient of variation was evaluated. The highest values of specificity and sensitivity (>0.98) for the three classifiers examined here were obtained when the angular velocity of the foot was processed. Distributed and vectorial classifiers reached acceptable values (>0.95) when the angular velocity of shank and thigh were analyzed. Distributed and scalar classifiers showed values of computational load about 100 times lower than the one obtained with the vectorial classifier. In addition, distributed classifiers showed an excellent reliability for the evaluation of mean time and a good/excellent reliability for the coefficient of variation. In conclusion, due to the better performance and the small value of computational load, the here proposed novel distributed classifier can be implemented in the real-time application of gait phases recognition, such as to evaluate gait variability in patients or to control active orthoses for the recovery of mobility of lower limb joints.
Relationship between the Amount of Bitter Substances Adsorbed onto Lipid/Polymer Membrane and the Electric Response of Taste Sensors
Authors: Toko Kiyoshi , Hara Daichi , Tahara Yusuke , Yasuura Masato , Ikezaki Hidekazu
Published: September 2014

The bitterness of bitter substances can be measured by the change in the membrane electric potential caused by adsorption (CPA) using a taste sensor (electronic tongue). In this study, we examined the relationship between the CPA value due to an acidic bitter substance and the amount of the bitter substance adsorbed onto lipid/polymer membranes, which contain different lipid contents, used in the taste sensor. We used iso-α-acid which is an acidic bitter substance found in several foods and beverages. The amount of adsorbed iso-α-acid, which was determined by spectroscopy, showed a maximum at the lipid concentration 0.1 wt % of the membrane, and the same phenomenon was observed for the CPA value. At the higher lipid concentration, however, the amount adsorbed decreased and then remained constant, while the CPA value decreased monotonically to zero. This constant adsorption amount was observed when the membrane potential in the reference solution did not change with increasing lipid concentration. The decrease in CPA value in spite of the constant adsorption amount is caused by a decrease in the sensitivity of the membrane as the surface charge density increases. The reason why the peaks appeared in both the CPA value and adsorption amount is based on the contradictory adsorption properties of iso-α-acid. The increasing charged lipid concentration of the membrane causes an increasing electrostatic attractive interaction between iso-α-acid and the membrane, but simultaneously causes a decreasing hydrophobic interaction that results in decreasing adsorption of iso-α-acid, which also has hydrophobic properties, onto the membrane. Estimates of the amount of adsorption suggest that iso-α-acid molecules are adsorbed onto both the surface and interior of the membrane.
Aconitum Alkaloid Poisoning Related to the Culinary Uses of Aconite Roots
Authors: Chan Thomas
Published: September 2014

Aconite roots (roots or root tubers of the Aconitum species) are eaten as root vegetables and used to prepare herbal soups and meals, mainly for their purported health benefits. Aconite roots contain aconitine and other Aconitum alkaloids, which are well known cardiotoxins and neurotoxins. To better understand why Aconitum alkaloid poisoning related to the culinary uses of aconite roots can occur and characterize the risks posed by these “food supplements”, relevant published reports were reviewed. From 1995 to 2013, there were eight reports of aconite poisoning after consumption of these herbal soups and meals, including two reports of large clusters of cases (n = 19–45) and two reports of cases (n = 15–156) managed by two hospitals over a period of 4.5 to 5 years. The herbal formulae used did not adhere to the suggested guidelines, with regarding to the doses (50–500 g instead of 3–30 g per person) and types (raw instead of processed) of aconite roots used. The quantities of Aconitum alkaloids involved were huge, taking into consideration the doses of aconite roots used to prepare herbal soups/meals and the amounts of aconite roots and herbal soups/meals consumed. In a large cluster of cases, despite simmering raw “caowu” (the root tuber of A. kusnezoffii) in pork broth for 24 h, all 19 family members who consumed this soup and boiled “caowu” developed poisoning. Severe or even fatal aconite poisoning can occur after consumption of herbal soups and foods prepared from aconite roots. Even prolonged boiling may not be protective if raw preparations and large quantities of aconite roots are used. The public should be warned of the risk of severe poisoning related to the culinary and traditional medicinal uses of aconite roots.
Schistosome Vaccine Adjuvants in Preclinical and Clinical Research
Authors: Stephenson Rachel , You Hong , McManus Donald , Toth Istvan
Published: September 2014

There is currently no vaccine available for human use for any parasitic infections, including the helminth disease, schistosomiasis. Despite many researchers working towards this goal, one of the focuses has been on identifying new antigenic targets. The bar to achieve protective efficacy in humans was set at a consistent induction of 40% protection or better by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and although this is a modest goal, it is yet to be reached with the six most promising schistosomiasis vaccine candidates (Sm28GST, IrV5, Sm14, paramyosin, TPI, and Sm23). Adjuvant selection has a large impact on the effectiveness of the vaccine, and the use of adjuvants to aid in the stimulation of the immune system is a critical step and a major variable affecting vaccine development. In addition to a comprehensive understanding of the immune system, level of protection and the desired immune response required, there is also a need for a standardised and effective adjuvant formulation. This review summarises the status of adjuvants that have been or are being employed in schistosomiasis vaccine development focusing on immunisation outcomes at preclinical and clinical stages.