bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Newborn care behaviours and neonatal survival: evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Penfold Suzanne , Willey Barbara A. , Schellenberg Joanna
Published: October 2013

Objective

To review evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa for the association between the practice or promotion of essential newborn care behaviours and neonatal survival.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE for English language, peer‐reviewed literature published since 2005. The study population was neonates residing in a sub‐Saharan Africa country who were not HIV positive. Outcomes were all‐cause neonatal or early neonatal mortality or one of the three main causes of neonatal mortality: complications of preterm birth, infections and intrapartum‐related neonatal events. Interventions included were the practice or promotion of recommended newborn care behaviours including warmth, hygiene, breastfeeding, resuscitation and management of illness. We included study designs with a concurrent comparison group. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane EPOC or Newcastle–Ottawa tools and summarised using GRADE.

Results

Eleven papers met the search criteria and most were at low risk of bias. We found evidence that delivering on a clean surface, newborn resuscitation, early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) for low‐birthweight babies, and distribution of clean delivery kits were associated with reduced risks of neonatal mortality or the main causes of neonatal mortality. There was evidence that training community birth attendants in resuscitation and administering antibiotics, and establishing women's groups can improve neonatal survival.

Conclusion

There is a remarkable lack of robust evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa on the association between practice or promotion of newborn care behaviours and newborn survival.
The Effect of Inlet Guide Vanes on Inlet Flow Distortion Transfer and Transonic Fan Stability
Authors: Shaw M. J. , Hield P. , Tucker P. G.
Published: October 2013

An investigation was carried out into the effects of variable inlet guide vanes (VIGVs) on the performance and stability margin of a transonic fan in the presence of inlet flow distortion. The study was carried out using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and validated with experimental data. The capability of CFD to predict the changes in performance with or without VIGVs in the presence of an inlet flow distortion is assessed. Results show that the VIGVs improve the performance and stability margin and do so by reducing the amount of swirl at inlet to the rotor component of the fan.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation in a Three-Species Food Chain System With Harvesting and Two Delays
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Yang Huizhong
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we analyze the dynamics of a delayed food chain system with harvesting. Sufficient conditions for the local stability of the positive equilibrium and for the existence of Hopf bifurcation are obtained by analyzing the associated characteristic equation. Formulas for determining the direction of Hopf bifurcation and the stability of the bifurcating periodic solutions are derived by applying the normal form method and center manifold theorem. Finally, numerical simulation results are presented to validate the theoretical analysis.
Modeling of a Dynamic Mirror With Antagonistic Piezoelectric Stack Actuation
Authors: Mynderse James A. , Chiu George T. C.
Published: October 2013

A dynamic mirror actuator utilizing antagonistic piezoelectric stack actuators is presented for use in laser printers. Exhibiting hysteresis and other nonlinearities in open-loop operation, the dynamic mirror actuator (DMA) requires a control structure to achieve accurate mirror positioning. A linear DMA model is developed for extending operational bandwidth under closed-loop control, employing explicit piezoelectric stack actuator (PESA) charging dynamics and incorporating two modes for single input control of opposing PESA drives. Compared to constitutive models from literature, the proposed model displays a comparable fit with experimental frequency response data while retaining a lower model order. As further validation, simulated step response data are shown to agree with experimental data.
Experimental Investigation of Flow Condensation in Microgravity
Authors: Lee Hyoungsoon , Park Ilchung , Konishi Christopher , Mudawar Issam , May Rochelle I. , Juergens Jeffrey R. , Wagner James D. , Hall Nancy R. , Nahra Henry K. , Hasan Mohammad M. , Mackey Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2013

Future manned space missions are expected to greatly increase the space vehicle's size, weight, and heat dissipation requirements. An effective means to reducing both size and weight is to replace single-phase thermal management systems with two-phase counterparts that capitalize upon both latent and sensible heat of the coolant rather than sensible heat alone. This shift is expected to yield orders of magnitude enhancements in flow boiling and condensation heat transfer coefficients. A major challenge to this shift is a lack of reliable tools for accurate prediction of two-phase pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient in reduced gravity. Developing such tools will require a sophisticated experimental facility to enable investigators to perform both flow boiling and condensation experiments in microgravity in pursuit of reliable databases. This study will discuss the development of the Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment (FBCE) for the International Space Station (ISS), which was initiated in 2012 in collaboration between Purdue University and NASA Glenn Research Center. This facility was recently tested in parabolic flight to acquire condensation data for FC-72 in microgravity, aided by high-speed video analysis of interfacial structure of the condensation film. The condensation is achieved by rejecting heat to a counter flow of water, and experiments were performed at different mass velocities of FC-72 and water and different FC-72 inlet qualities. It is shown that the film flow varies from smooth-laminar to wavy-laminar and ultimately turbulent with increasing FC-72 mass velocity. The heat transfer coefficient is highest near the inlet of the condensation tube, where the film is thinnest, and decreases monotonically along the tube, except for high FC-72 mass velocities, where the heat transfer coefficient is enhanced downstream. This enhancement is attributed to both turbulence and increased interfacial waviness. One-ge correlations are shown to predict the average condensation heat transfer coefficient with varying degrees of success, and a recent correlation is identified for its superior predictive capability, evidenced by a mean absolute error of 21.7%.
An Assessment of Centrifugal Loading Effect of Rotor Disc on Fretting Variables at a Dovetail Interface of an Aero-Engine
Authors: Anandavel K. , Prakash Raghu V.
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the influence of centrifugal (CF) loading of aero-engine rotor disc on fretting variables at a dovetail interface. A detailed investigation is carried out on the fretting variables such as contact traction, slip, and contact stress at macroscopic level. Three-dimensional (3D) finite element (FE) analysis approach is used for prediction of fretting variables. The study is carried out for frictionless and friction interface (μ = 0.7) for the case of Titanium alloy. The slip level increase of about 48 % and 110% is observed for frictional and frictionless condition respectively, due to rotational effect of disc. Different contact traction ratio distribution over the interface is also observed with the CF load of rotating disc. The study suggests the consideration of centrifugal loading effect is important for improved prediction of critical fretting variables, as they would impact the evaluation fretting fatigue and wear characteristics at the interface.
Towards Development of a Diagnostic and Prognostic Tool for Civil Aero-Engine Component Degradation
Authors: Khani Nqobile , Segovia Clara , Navaratne Rukshan , Sethi Vishal , Singh Riti , Pilidis Pericles
Published: October 2013

A mechanical device such as an aircraft gas turbine engine will in its lifetime of service show the effects of damage and deterioration. The damage to (and deterioration of) an engine has an adverse effect on the engine’s overall performance. It is therefore vitally important to predict the effects of deterioration on the performance of an engine and on the economic (fuel burn and engine life) implications from an operator’s perspective. Engine component degradation leads to performance deterioration and change, which requires the engine to run hotter and faster so as to meet the required thrust and aircraft performance. Increasing engine operating temperatures and engine speed result in increased creep and fatigue damage to the hot section components and increases the engine life cycle costs. One way of reducing life cycle costs is by better usage of the engine and involves being certain about the life potential of the engine and its components and how this life evolves with use. A sound understanding of how the engine life evolves and to predict remaining life requires understanding the engine’s operating environment and how component damage is sustained and accumulated. Knowledge about the engine condition and the likely stresses to which it will be subjected is required to analyse engine component usage and reduce degradation, raise safe-life limits of components and reduce maintenance requirements. This paper lays the foundation for the development of a prognostic tool that will capture and model the mechanisms of degradation, and predict levels of degradation based on engine deployment. The mechanisms that will cause degradation are assessed and integrated to establish the requirements of the tool. The paper discusses how degradation will affect component and engine performance and also the life of the engine.
Experimental Investigation of Methane Lean Blowout Limit; Effects of Dilution, Mass Flow Rate and Inlet Temperature
Authors: Sayad Parisa , Schönborn Alessandro , Clerini Denny , Klingmann Jens
Published: October 2013

Lean blowout (LBO) is one of the major instability problems of premixed combustion. LBO equivalence ratio is a function of inlet temperature and pressure, mass flow or aerodynamic loading, and fuel composition. All these, except the last, vary during startup and with load. Developing gas turbine combustors capable of operating within wider range of fuel compositions requires extensive knowledge about instability limits of the combustor at different operating conditions. In this work an atmospheric variable swirl combustor was used to study the influence of inlet temperature, mass flow, swirl number and dilution on lean blowout of methane. The equivalence ratio at LBO was investigated for methane at 3 different inlet temperatures at various swirl numbers. The swirl number was varied by changing the ratio of axial and tangential flow through the combustor inlet, and was determined using Laser Doppler Anemometry. The experiments showed that increasing the swirl number reduced the lean blowout equivalence ratio for a given inlet temperature and that increasing the inlet temperature reduced the lean blowout equivalence ratio at a certain swirl number. In order to study the effect of inlet mass flow rate on lean stability limit, blowout experiments were conducted at 7 different mass flow rates. The measurements showed that the total mass flow has a non-monotonic effect on the lean blowout limit. At total mass flow rates below 200 SLPM increasing the total mass flow extended lean stability limit whereas at mass flow rates higher than 300 SLPM the trend was reversed. The effect of fuel dilution on the LBO limit was also investigated by adding different fractions of N2 and CO2 to the fuel mixture. The results were compared with those for pure methane at the same swirl number. Dilution with either diluent reduced the LBO limit of methane. However at the concentrations lower than 50% the effect of dilution on LBO equivalence ratio was relatively small and no significant difference was observed between N2 and CO2 dilution.
Correlation between human observer performance and model observer performance in differential phase contrast CT
Authors: Li Ke , Garrett John , Chen Guang‐Hong
Published: October 2013

Purpose:

With the recently expanding interest and developments in x‐ray differential phase contrast CT (DPC‐CT), the evaluation of its task‐specific detection performance and comparison with the corresponding absorption CT under a given radiation dose constraint become increasingly important. Mathematical model observers are often used to quantify the performance of imaging systems, but their correlations with actual human observers need to be confirmed for each new imaging method. This work is an investigation of the effects of stochastic DPC‐CT noise on the correlation of detection performance between model and human observers with signal‐known‐exactly (SKE) detection tasks.

Methods:

The detectabilities of different objects (five disks with different diameters and two breast lesion masses) embedded in an experimental DPC‐CT noise background were assessed using both model and human observers. The detectability of the disk and lesion signals was then measured using five types of model observers including the prewhitening ideal observer, the nonprewhitening (NPW) observer, the nonprewhitening observer with eye filter and internal noise (NPWEi), the prewhitening observer with eye filter and internal noise (PWEi), and the channelized Hotelling observer (CHO). The same objects were also evaluated by four human observers using the two‐alternative forced choice method. The results from the model observer experiment were quantitatively compared to the human observer results to assess the correlation between the two techniques.

Results:

The contrast‐to‐detail (CD) curve generated by the human observers for the disk‐detection experiments shows that the required contrast to detect a disk is inversely proportional to the square root of the disk size. Based on the CD curves, the ideal and NPW observers tend to systematically overestimate the performance of the human observers. The NPWEi and PWEi observers did not predict human performance well either, as the slopes of their CD curves tended to be steeper. The CHO generated the best quantitative agreement with human observers with its CD curve overlapping with that of human observer. Statistical equivalence between CHO and humans can be claimed within 11% of the human observer results, including both the disk and lesion detection experiments.

Conclusions:

The model observer method can be used to accurately represent human observer performance with the stochastic DPC‐CT noise for SKE tasks with sizes ranging from 8 to 128 pixels. The incorporation of the anatomical noise remains to be studied.
Dedicated 3D photoacoustic breast imaging
Authors: Kruger Robert A. , Kuzmiak Cherie M. , Lam Richard B. , Reinecke Daniel R. , Del Rio Stephen P. , Steed Doreen
Published: October 2013

Purpose:

To report the design and imaging methodology of a photoacoustic scanner dedicated to imaging hemoglobin distribution throughout a human breast.

Methods:

The authors developed a dedicated breast photoacoustic mammography (PAM) system using a spherical detector aperture based on our previous photoacoustic tomography scanner. The system uses 512 detectors with rectilinear scanning. The scan shape is a spiral pattern whose radius varies from 24 to 96 mm, thereby allowing a field of view that accommodates a wide range of breast sizes. The authors measured the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) using a target comprised of 1‐mm dots printed on clear plastic. Each dot absorption coefficient was approximately the same as a 1‐mm thickness of whole blood at 756 nm, the output wavelength of the Alexandrite laser used by this imaging system. The target was immersed in varying depths of an 8% solution of stock Liposyn II‐20%, which mimics the attenuation of breast tissue (1.1 cm−1). The spatial resolution was measured using a 6 μm‐diameter carbon fiber embedded in agar. The breasts of four healthy female volunteers, spanning a range of breast size from a brassiere C cup to a DD cup, were imaged using a 96‐mm spiral protocol.

Results:

The CNR target was clearly visualized to a depth of 53 mm. Spatial resolution, which was estimated from the full width at half‐maximum of a profile across the PAM image of a carbon fiber, was 0.42 mm. In the four human volunteers, the vasculature was well visualized throughout the breast tissue, including to the chest wall.

Conclusions:

CNR, lateral field‐of‐view and penetration depth of our dedicated PAM scanning system is sufficient to image breasts as large as 1335 mL, which should accommodate up to 90% of the women in the United States.
Structural Basis for flg22-Induced Activation of the
Arabidopsis
FLS2-BAK1 Immune Complex
Authors: Sun Yadong , Li Lei , Macho Alberto P. , Han Zhifu , Hu Zehan , Zipfel Cyril , Zhou Jian-Min , Chai Jijie
Published: October 2013

First Defense

In defense against bacterial infection, plants carry a cell-surface receptor, known as FLS2, that can bind to a fragment of bacterial flagellin and trigger defense responses.

Y. Sun
et al.

(p.
624
, published online 10 October) investigated the structural details that govern the binding between FLS2, its co-receptor BAK1, and the flagellin fragment flg22. The assembled complex initiates signals to activate the plant's innate immune response.
Draft Genome Sequence of Gallibacterium anatis bv. haemolytica 12656-12 Liver, an Isolate Obtained from the Liver of a Septicemic Chicken
Authors: Kudirkiene Egle , Christensen Henrik , Bojesen Anders Miki
Published: October 2013

We report the draft genome sequence of
Gallibacterium anatis
bv. haemolytica strain 12656-12 Liver. This strain was isolated from the liver of a septicemic layer chicken in Denmark in 1981. The strain has been used extensively for experimental purposes.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Stable Mucoid Strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO581 with a
mucA25
Mutation
Authors: Yin Yeshi , Withers T. Ryan , Govan John R. W. , Johnson Shannon L. , Yu Hongwei D.
Published: October 2013

A mutation in the
mucA
gene, which encodes a negative regulator of alginate production in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, is the main mechanism underlying the conversion to mucoidy in clinical isolates from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Here, we announce the draft genome sequence of the stable alginate-overproducing mucoid strain
P. aeruginosa
PAO581 with a
mucA25
mutation, a derivative from the nonmucoid strains
P. aeruginosa
PAO381 and PAO1.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Mucoid Isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain C7447m from a Patient with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Yin Yeshi , Withers T. Ryan , Johnson Shannon L. , Yu Hongwei D.
Published: October 2013

Alginate overproduction by
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, or mucoidy, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic lung infections in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Here we report the draft genome sequence of a clinical isolate of mucoid
P. aeruginosa
strain C7447m from a CF patient with chronic lung infection.
Total heterotopic ossification of an acellular dermal matrix used for abdominal wall reconstruction
Authors: Tam Vernissia , Zelken Jonathan , Sacks Justin M
Published: October 2013

Heterotopic ossification is an observable phenomenon in the setting of abdominal wounds, estimated to effect 25% of all patients after midline abdominal surgery. The development of acellular dermal matrices has revolutionised the approach in repairing abdominal hernias, especially for potentially contaminated wounds. We describe a case of heterotopic bone formation incorporating the whole of an acellular dermal matrix in a patient on chronic steroid therapy.
Prosthesis on prosthesis: three-fourth metal crowns—a novel approach for metallic occlusion
Authors: Pachore Nivedita , Patel Jayanti R , Sethuraman Rajesh , Prajapati Paranjay
Published: October 2013

Single complete denture is a common occurrence which needs special attention in treatment. Denture reinforcement with metallic occlusion is recommended to prevent fracture of denture and wearing of artificial teeth. Various methods have been reported in the literature for metallic occlusion, which either compromise on aesthetics of the premolar teeth or need repeated procedures. This case reports the use of three-fourths metal crowns to achieve metallic occlusions in single complete denture.
Drugs causing adverse events in patients aged 45 or older: a randomised survey of Australian general practice patients
Authors: Miller Graeme C , Valenti Lisa , Britt Helena , Bayram Clare
Published: October 2013

Objective

To determine prevalence of adverse drug events (ADEs) in patients aged 45 years or older presenting to Australian general practitioners (GPs) and identify drug groups related to ADEs, their severity and manifestation.

Design

Substudy of the Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health continuous survey of Australian GP clinical activity in which randomly selected GPs collected survey data from patients. Data are reported with 95% CIs.

Setting

General practice in Australia.

Main outcome measures

Prevalence in the preceding 6 months, type, implicated drugs, severity (including hospitalisation) and manifestation of ADEs.

Participants

From three survey samples, January–October 2007, and two samples, January–March 2010, responses were received from 482 GPs about 7561 patients aged 45 years or older.

Results

Of a final sample of 7518 patients (after duplicate patients removed), 871 (11.6%) reported ADEs in the previous 6 months. The type of ADE was recognised side effect (75.8%, 95% CI 72.0 to 79.7), drug sensitivity (9.9%, 95% CI 7.2 to 12.7) and drug allergy (7.4%, 95% CI 4.7 to 10.1). Drug interaction (1.0%, 95% CI 0.1 to 1.8), overdose (0.8%, 95% CI 0.0 to 1.5) and contraindications (0.2%, 95% CI 0.0 to 0.6) were very infrequent. A severity rating was provided for 846 patients. Almost half (45.9%, 95% CI 42.0 to 49.7) were rated as ‘mild’ events, 42.2% (95% CI 38.8 to 45.6) ‘moderate’, 11.8% (95% CI 9.5 to 14.1) severe and 5.4% (95% CI 3.8 to 7.0) had been hospitalised as a result of the most recent ADE. Thirteen commonly prescribed drug groups accounted for 58% of all ADEs, opioids being the group most often implicated.

Conclusion

ADEs in patients aged 45 or older are frequent and are associated with significant morbidity. Most of ADEs result from commonly prescribed drugs at therapeutic dosage. The list of causative agents bears little relationship to published lists of ‘inappropriate medications’.
HÉNON MAP: SIMPLE SINKS GAINING COEXISTENCE AS b → 1
Authors: FALCOLINI CORRADO , TEDESCHINI-LALLI LAURA
Published: October 2013

The quadratic map of the interval displays one attractor for each parameter value. Conservative maps of the plane display infinite coexistence of stability islands around periodic orbits. Between these two extremes, dissipative systems of the plane are known to have infinite coexistence of sinks as a generic property, yet very hard to detect. We investigate how more and more coexistence is gained as the area-contraction rate b → 1. In this paper, we show a sequence of simple sinks gaining coexistence, and investigate the convergence properties of its bifurcation values. The sinks are simple, or primary, due to their geometrical structure.
GLOBAL PHASE PORTRAITS OF SOME REVERSIBLE CUBIC CENTERS WITH NONCOLLINEAR SINGULARITIES
Authors: CAUBERGH M. , TORREGROSA J.
Published: October 2013

The results in this paper show that the cubic vector fields ẋ = -y + M(x, y) - y(x2+ y2), ẏ = x + N(x, y) + x( x2+ y2), where M, N are quadratic homogeneous polynomials, having simultaneously a center at the origin and at infinity, have at least 61 and at most 68 topologically different phase portraits. To this end, the reversible subfamily defined by M(x, y) = -γxy, N(x, y) = (γ - λ)x2+ α2λy2with α, γ ∈ ℝ and λ ≠ 0, is studied in detail and it is shown to have at least 48 and at most 55 topologically different phase portraits. In particular, there are exactly five for γλ < 0 and at least 46 for γλ > 0. Furthermore, the global bifurcation diagram is analyzed.
Genetic Draft, Selective Interference, and Population Genetics of Rapid Adaptation
Authors: Neher Richard A.
Published: October 2013

To learn about the past from a sample of genomic sequences, one needs to understand how evolutionary processes shape genetic diversity. Most population genetics inferences are based on frameworks assuming that adaptive evolution is rare. But if positive selection operates on many loci simultaneously, as has recently been suggested for many species, including animals such as flies, then a different approach is necessary. In this review, I discuss recent progress in characterizing and understanding evolution in rapidly adapting populations, in which random associations of mutations with genetic backgrounds of different fitness, i.e., genetic draft, dominate over genetic drift. As a result, neutral genetic diversity depends weakly on population size but strongly on the rate of adaptation or more generally the variance in fitness. Coalescent processes with multiple mergers, rather than Kingman's coalescent, are appropriate genealogical models for rapidly adapting populations, with important implications for population genetics inference.
Fluid Mechanics, Arterial Disease, and Gene Expression
Authors: Tarbell John M. , Shi Zhong-Dong , Dunn Jessilyn , Jo Hanjoong
Published: October 2013

This review places modern research developments in vascular mechanobiology in the context of hemodynamic phenomena in the cardiovascular system and the discrete localization of vascular disease. The modern origins of this field are traced, beginning in the 1960s when associations between flow characteristics, particularly blood flow–induced wall shear stress, and the localization of atherosclerotic plaques were uncovered, and continuing to fluid shear stress effects on the vascular lining endothelial cells (ECs), including their effects on EC morphology, biochemical production, and gene expression. The earliest single-gene studies and genome-wide analyses are considered. The final section moves from the ECs lining the vessel wall to the smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts within the wall that are fluid mechanically activated by interstitial flow that imposes shear stresses on their surfaces comparable with those of flowing blood on EC surfaces. Interstitial flow stimulates biochemical production and gene expression, much like blood flow on ECs.
α7-Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Agonists for Cognitive Enhancement in Schizophrenia
Authors: Freedman Robert
Published: October 2013

α7-Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors have emerged as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neurocognitive dysfunctions in schizophrenia that are often resistant to existing antipsychotic drugs. Molecular evidence for involvement in schizophrenia of CHRNA7, the gene for the receptor subunit, in the neurobiology of deficits in attention is a critical rationale for the clinical study of α7-nicotinic receptor agonists to improve neurocognition. Initial clinical trials show enhancement of inhibitory neuron function related to sensory gating and increased attention and working memory, as well as improvement in negative symptoms such as anhedonia and alogia. Further development of this therapeutic strategy requires assessment of interactions with patients' heavy cigarette smoking and the relationship of this mechanism to the therapeutic effects of clozapine and olanzapine, both highly effective therapeutics with significant side effects.
Gammaherpesviruses and Lymphoproliferative Disorders
Authors: Cesarman Ethel
Published: October 2013

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), formally designated human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4) and 8 (HHV-8), respectively, are viruses that can cause a variety of cancers in humans. EBV is found in non-Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphomas, as well as in lymphoproliferative disorders, which occur more commonly but not exclusively in individuals with immunodeficiency. EBV also causes nonlymphoid malignancies such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma. KSHV causes primary effusion lymphomas, multicentric Castleman's disease, and Kaposi's sarcoma. The frequency of lymphoid malignancies related to infection by one of these two herpesviruses is greatly increased in individuals with immunodeficiency, whether primary or acquired, for example, as a consequence of HIV infection and AIDS or in the case of therapeutic immunosuppression for organ transplantation. Our current understanding indicates that EBV and KSHV contribute to lymphomagenesis by affecting genomic stability and by subverting the cellular molecular signaling machinery and metabolism to avoid immune surveillance and enhance tumor cell growth and survival. Understanding the viral associations in specific lymphoproliferative disorders and the molecular mechanisms of viral oncogenesis will lead to better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for these diseases.
Cardiac sympathetic innervation and PGP9.5 expression by cardiomyocytes after myocardial infarction: effects of central MR blockade
Authors: Drobysheva Anastasia , Ahmad Monir , White Roselyn , Wang Hong-Wei , Leenen Frans H. H.
Published: October 2013

Central mechanisms involving mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation contribute to an increase in sympathetic tone after myocardial infarction (MI). We hypothesized that this central mechanism also contributes to cardiac sympathetic axonal sprouting and that central MR blockade reduces cardiac sympathetic hyperinnervation post-MI. Post-MI, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and norepinephrine transporter protein content in the noninfarcted base of the heart remained unaltered. In contrast, protein gene product (PGP)9.5 protein was increased twofold in the base of the heart and sixfold in the peri-infarct area at 1 wk post-MI and was associated with increased ubiquitin expression. These changes persisted to a lesser extent at 4 wk post-MI and were no longer present at 12 wk. Cardiac myocytes rather than sympathetic axons were the main source of this elevated PGP9.5 expression. At 7–10 days post-MI, in the peri-infarct area, sympathetic hyperinnervation was observed with a fourfold increase in growth-associated protein 43, a twofold increase in TH, and a 50% increase in PGP9.5-positive fibers compared with the epicardial side of the left ventricle in sham rats. Central infusion of the MR blocker eplerenone markedly attenuated these increases in nerve densities but did not affect overall cardiac PGP9.5 and ubiquitin protein overexpression. We conclude that central MR activation contributes to sympathetic hyperinnervation, possibly by decreasing cardiac sympathetic activity post-MI, or by affecting other mechanisms, such as the expression of nerve growth factor. Marked PGP9.5 expression occurs in cardiomyocytes early post-MI, which may contribute to the increase in ubiquitin.
Recent Developments in Liposome-Based Veterinary Therapeutics
Authors: Sadozai Hassan , Saeidi Dorsa
Published: October 2013

Recent advances in nanomedicine have been studied in the veterinary field and have found a wide variety of applications. The past decade has witnessed a massive surge of research interest in liposomes for delivery of therapeutic substances in animals. Liposomes are nanosized phospholipid vesicles that can serve as delivery platforms for a wide range of substances. Liposomes are easily formulated, highly modifiable, and easily administered delivery platforms. They are biodegradable and nontoxic and have long in vivo circulation time. This review focuses on recent and ongoing research that may have relevance for veterinary medicine. By examining the recent developments in liposome-based therapeutics in animal cancers, vaccines, and analgesia, this review depicts the current significance and future directions of liposome-based delivery in veterinary medicine.
(R)-α-Aminoadipic Acid: A Versatile Precursor for the Synthesis of D-Amino Acids
Authors: Sadiq Amina , Sewald Norbert
Published: October 2013

The ready accessibility of (R)-α-aminoadipic acid by enzymatic cleavage of cephalosporin C (CephC) in the production of 7-aminocephalosporanic acid (7-ACA) on a large scale makes it a favorable chiral pool building block for the synthesis of unusual amino acids. A route for the synthesis of C-5-alkenyl and C-6-alkylidene derivatives of (R)-pipecolic acid is described which utilizes (R)-α-aminoadipic acid as the enantiomerically pure starting material. Moreover, the synthesis of azido and triazolyl derivatives of (R)-α-aminoadipic acid is reported.
Procalcitonin Levels in Patients with Complete and Incomplete Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Cho Hwa Jin , Choi Young Earl , Song Eun Song , Cho Young Kuk , Ma Jae Sook
Published: October 2013

Incomplete Kawasaki disease (iKD) is considered to be a less complete form of Kawasaki disease (cKD), and several differences in the laboratory presentations of iKD and cKD have been noted. We investigated serum procalcitonin levels in patients with iKD, cKD, and other febrile diseases (a control group). Seventy-seven patients with cKD, 24 with iKD, and 41 controls admitted to our hospital from November 2009 to November 2011 were enrolled in the present study. We obtained four measurements of serum procalcitonin levels and those of other inflammatory markers from each patient. Samples were taken for analysis on the day of diagnosis (thus before treatment commenced; D0) and 2 (D2), 14 (D14), and 56 days (D56) after intravenous immunoglobulin infusion. We obtained control group data at D0. The mean D0 serum procalcitonin levels of cKD patients (0.71±1.36 ng/mL) and controls (0.67±1.06 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those of iKD patients (0.26±0.26 ng/mL) (P=0.014andP=0.041, resp.). No significant difference in mean procalcitonin level was evident among groups at any subsequent time. In conclusion, the serum procalcitonin level of patients with acute-stage cKD was significantly higher than that of iKD patients.
Circulating Anti-Beta2-Glycoprotein I Antibodies Are Associated with Endothelial Dysfunction, Inflammation, and High Nitrite Plasma Levels in Patients with Intermittent Claudication
Authors: Varela Cesar , de Haro Joaquin , Bleda Silvia , Esparza Leticia , Lopez de Maturana Ignacio , Acin Francisco
Published: October 2013

Our aim is to investigate a possible association of circulating anti-beta2-glycoprotein I antibodies (ABGPI) with the endothelial dysfunction, nitric oxide bioactivity dysregulation, and the inflammatory status that surrounds peripheral arterial disease. We carried out an observational translational study, including 50 male patients with intermittent claudication and a healthy control group of 10 male subjects, age and sex matched with the cases. Flow-mediated arterial dilatation (FMAD) was assessed as a surrogate of endothelial dysfunction, and C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was determined as a marker of inflammation. Nitrite plasma levels were measured by colorimetric analysis. Circulating ABGPI titer was detected with indirect immunofluorescence. Titers <1 : 10 represented the reference range and the lower detection limit of the test. Circulating ABGPI titer ≥1 : 10 was detected in 21 (42%) patients and in none of the control subjects (P<0.01). Patients with ABGPI titer ≥1 : 10 had a lower FMAD (P=0.01). The CRP levels were higher in patients with ABGPI titer ≥1 : 10 (P=0.04). The nitrite plasma levels were higher in patients with ABGPI titer ≥1 : 10 (P<0.01). These data suggest that these circulating ABGPI may collaborate in the development of atherosclerosis; however, further prospective studies are required to establish a causal relationship.
Solutions of Nonlocal -Laplacian Equations
Authors: Avci Mustafa , Ayazoglu (Mashiyev) Rabil
Published: October 2013

In view of variational approach we discuss a nonlocal problem, that is, a Kirchhoff-type equation involving -Laplace operator. Establishing some suitable conditions, we prove the existence and multiplicity of solutions.
Tightness Criterion and Weak Convergence for the Generalized Empirical Process in
Authors: Ziemba Maciej
Published: October 2013

We prove Shao and Yu's tightness criterion for the generalized empirical process in the space with topology. Covariance inequalities are used in applying the criterion to particular types of the empirical processes. We weaken the assumptions imposed on the covariance structure as well as the properties of the underlying sequence of r.v.'s, under which presented processes converge weakly.
Development of Dorzolamide Loaded 6-O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan Nanoparticles for Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Shinde Ujwala , Ahmed Mohammed Hadi , Singh Kavita
Published: October 2013

Chitosan (CS) is a biodegradable, biocompatible, and mucoadhesive
natural polymer soluble in acidic pH only and can be irritating to the eye. Objective of
the study was to synthesize water soluble 6-O-carboxymethyl (OCM-CS)
derivative of CS, and to develop CS and OCM-CS nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with
dorzolamide hydrochloride (DRZ). CS was reacted with monochloroacetic acid (MCA)
for OCM-CS synthesis and was characterized by FT-IR, DSC, and 13C NMR.
CS and OCM-CS NPs were prepared by ionic gelation method. Ocular irritation potential
were evaluated and therapeutic efficacy was measured by reduction in intraocular pressure
(IOP) in normotensive rabbits. Maximum yield was obtained when the ratio of water/isopropyl
alcohol was 1/4 at 55°C. The FT-IR, DSC and 13C NMR
confirmed the formation of an ether linkage between hydroxyl groups of CS and MCA.
The particle size and zeta potential of optimised CSNPs was 250.3 ± 2.62 nm
and +33.47 ± 0.723 mV, whereas those for OCM-CSNPs were
187.1 ± 2.72 nm and 30.87 ± 0.86 mV. The entrapment
efficiency was significantly improved for OCM-CSNPs, compared to CSNPs. OCM-CSNPs
had tailored drug release and improved bioavailability with reduction in pulse
entry as compared to CSNPs. Hence, it can be concluded that DRZ loaded OCM-CSNPs would be
better alternative option to available eye drops for glaucoma treatment.
Whole Body Computed Tomography with Advanced Imaging Techniques: A Research Tool for Measuring Body Composition in Dogs
Authors: Purushothaman Dharma , Vanselow Barbara A. , Wu Shu-Biao , Butler Sarah , Brown Wendy Yvonne
Published: October 2013

The use of computed tomography (CT) to evaluate obesity in canines is limited. Traditional CT image analysis is cumbersome and uses prediction equations that require manual calculations. In order to overcome this, our study investigated the use of advanced image analysis software programs to determine body composition in dogs with an application to canine obesity research. Beagles and greyhounds were chosen for their differences in morphology and propensity to obesity. Whole body CT scans with regular intervals were performed on six beagles and six greyhounds that were subjected to a 28-day weight-gain protocol. The CT images obtained at days 0 and 28 were analyzed using software programs OsiriX, ImageJ, and AutoCAT. The CT scanning technique was able to differentiate bone, lean, and fat tissue in dogs and proved sensitive enough to detect increases in both lean and fat during weight gain over a short period. A significant difference in lean : fat ratio was observed between the two breeds on both days 0 and 28 (P<0.01). Therefore, CT and advanced image analysis proved useful in the current study for the estimation of body composition in dogs and has the potential to be used in canine obesity research.
Preferential Selectivity of Inhibitors with Human Tau Protein Kinase Gsk3 Elucidates Their Potential Roles for Off-Target Alzheimer’s Therapy
Authors: Kumar Dasappa Jagadeesh , Nagendra H. G.
Published: October 2013

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta peptides (A) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). The abnormal phosphorylation of tau leads to the formation of NFTs produced by the action of tau kinases, resulting in the loss of neurons and synapse, leading to dementia. Hence, tau kinases have become potential drug target candidates for small molecule inhibitors. With an aim to explore the identification of a common inhibitor, this investigation was undertaken towards analyzing all 10 tau kinases which are implicated in phosphorylation of AD. A set of 7 inhibitors with varied scaffolds were collected from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). The analysis, involving multiple sequence alignment, 3D structural alignment, catalytic active site overlap, and docking studies, has enabled elucidation of the pharmacophoric patterns for the class of 7 inhibitors. Our results divulge that tau protein kinases share a specific set of conserved structural elements for the binding of inhibitors and ATP, respectively. The scaffold of 3-aminopyrrolidine (inhibitor 6) exhibits high preferential affinity with GSK3. Surprisingly, the PDB does not contain the structural details of GSK3 with this specific inhibitor. Thus, our investigations provide vital clues towards design of novel off-target drugs for Alzheimer’s.
Projection of the Spatially Explicit Land Use/Cover Changes in China, 2010–2100
Authors: Yuan Yongwei , Zhao Tao , Wang Weimin , Chen Shaohui , Wu Feng
Published: October 2013

Land use/cover change (LUCC) is an important part of the global environmental change. This study predicted the future structure of land use/cover on the basis of the Global Change Assessment Model (GCAM) and an econometric model with the socioeconomic factors as the driving forces. The future spatial pattern of land use/cover in China was simulated with the Dynamics of Land System (DLS) under the Business as Usual scenario, Rapid Economic Growth scenario and Cooperate Environmental Sustainability scenario. The simulation results showed that the land use/land cover in China will change continually due to the human activities and climate change, and the spatial pattern of land use/cover will also change as time goes by. Besides, the spatial pattern of land cover in China under the three scenarios is consistent on the whole, but with some regional differences. Built-up area will increase rapidly under the three scenarios, while most land cover types will show a decreasing trend to different degrees under different scenarios. The simulation results can provide an underlying land surface data and reference to the methodology research on the prediction of LUCC.
History, Introduction, and Kinetics of Ion Exchange Materials
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Jain Sapna
Published: October 2013

During the last few decades, ion exchange materials have evolved from laboratory tool to industrial products with significant technical and commercial impact. The current paper briefly summarizes the history of the development of the ion exchange materials. The paper defines the ion exchange materials and their types. The paper signifies the kinetics involved in the ion exchange process with description of factors affecting the rate of ion exchange. The mechanism of ion exchange has also been delineated through schematic diagram, illustrating that there are two types of diffusion, film and particle controlled diffusion. A brief of mathematical approach for kinetics of ion exchange has also been incorporated.
Hypoxia Signaling—License to Metastasize
Authors: Vanharanta Sakari , Massagué Joan
Published: October 2013

Summary: Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF) have long been linked to malignant tumor phenotypes in various cancer types, and several downstream mediators of HIF action are deregulated in metastatic carcinomas. A new study links hypoxia-induced collagen remodeling to sarcoma progression, providing evidence for unifying mechanisms of carcinoma and sarcoma metastasis. Cancer Discov; 3(10); 1103–4. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Eisinger-Mathason et al., p. 1190
An Unexpected Intriguing Effect of Toll-Like Receptor Regulator RP105 (CD180) on Atherosclerosis Formation With Alterations on B-Cell Activation
Authors: Karper J.C. , de Jager S.C.A. , Ewing M.M. , de Vries M.R. , Bot I. , van Santbrink P.J. , Redeker A. , Mallat Z. , Binder C.J. , Arens R. , Jukema J.W. , Kuiper J. , Quax P.H.A.
Published: October 2013

Objective—

In atherosclerosis, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are traditionally linked to effects on tissue macrophages or foam cells. RP105, a structural TLR4 homolog, is an important regulator of TLR signaling. The effects of RP105 on TLR signaling vary for different leukocyte subsets known to be involved in atherosclerosis, making it unique in its role of either suppressing (in myeloid cells) or enhancing (in B cells) TLR-regulated inflammation in different cell types. We aimed to identify a role of TLR accessory molecule RP105 on circulating cells in atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Approach and Results—

Irradiated low density lipoprotein receptor deficient mice received RP105
−/−
or wild-type bone marrow. RP105
−/−
chimeras displayed a 57% reduced plaque burden. Interestingly, total and activated B-cell numbers were significantly reduced in RP105
−/−
chimeras. Activation of B1 B cells was unaltered, suggesting that RP105 deficiency only affected inflammatory B2 B cells. IgM levels were unaltered, but anti-oxidized low-density lipoprotein and anti–malondialdehyde-modified low-density lipoprotein IgG2c antibody levels were significantly lower in RP105
−/−
chimeras, confirming effects on B2 B cells rather than B1 B cells. Moreover, B-cell activating factor expression was reduced in spleens of RP105
−/−
chimeras.

Conclusions—

RP105 deficiency on circulating cells results in an intriguing unexpected TLR-associated mechanisms that decrease atherosclerotic lesion formation with alterations on proinflammatory B2 B cells.
Novel Electromyographic Monitoring Technique for Prevention of Right Phrenic Nerve Palsy During Cryoballoon Ablation
Authors: Franceschi Frédéric , Koutbi Linda , Mancini Julien , Attarian Shahram , Prevôt Sébastien , Deharo Jean-Claude
Published: October 2013

Background—

Right phrenic nerve palsy (PNP) is the most frequent complication of cryoballoon ablation. Diaphragmatic electromyography can predict PNP with a comfortable safety margin. Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of electromyography-guided PN monitoring using a novel hepatic vein approach for prevention of PNP.

Methods and Results—

This study includes 57 patients (47 males) indicated for cryoballoon ablation for treatment of atrial fibrillation. During right superior pulmonary vein ablation, the PN was paced at 60 beats per minute and diaphragmatic compound motor action potential (CMAP) amplitude was recorded via a quadripolar catheter positioned in a subdiaphragmatic hepatic vein. If a 30% drop in CMAP amplitude was observed, ablation was discontinued with forced deflation. Reliable recording of CMAP before ablation was feasible in 50 of 57 patients (88%). In 7 patients (12%), stable PN pacing could not be achieved. In 44 of 50 patients, CMAP amplitude remained constant during cryoapplication. The mean value of CMAP amplitude was 639.7±240.5 µV; mean variation was 13±4.3%. In 6 of 50 patients (12%) including 5 treated with a 23-mm cryoballoon and 1 with a 28-mm cryoballoon, the 30% reduction cutoff was reached and cryoablation was discontinued. Recovery of CMAP amplitude after discontinuing cryoablation took <60 seconds in all cases. No PNP or complication related to PN monitoring occurred.

Conclusions—

Recording of diaphragmatic CMAP using a catheter positioned in a subdiaphragmatic hepatic vein seems feasible during cryoballoon ablation. Electromyography-guided PN monitoring seems safe and potentially helpful for prevention of PNP.