bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dielectric Properties of PbNb2O6 up to 700°C from Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Sahu Kriti Ranjan , De Udayan
Published: May 2013

Piezoelectric materials have wide band gap and no inversion symmetry. Only the orthorhombic phase of lead metaniobate (PbNb2O6) can be ferroelectric and piezoelectric below Curie temperature, but not the rhombohedral phase. High temperature piezoelectric applications in current decades have revived international interest in orthorhombic PbNb2O6, synthesis of which in pure form is difficult and not well documented. Second problem is that its impedance spectroscopy (IS) data analysis is still incomplete. Present work attempts to fill up these two gaps. Presently found synthesis parameters yield purely orthorhombic PbNb2O6, as checked by X-ray Rietveld analysis and TEM. Present 20 Hz to 5.5 MHz IS from room temperature to 700°C shows its ferroelectric Curie temperature to be one of the highest reported, >574°C for 0.5 kHz and >580°C for 5.5 MHz. Dielectric characteristics and electrical properties (like capacitance, resistance and relaxation time of the equivalent CR circuit, AC and DC conductivities, and related activation energies), as derived here from a complete analysis of the IS data, are more extensive than what has yet been reported in the literature. All the properties show sharp changes across the Curie temperature. The temperature dependence of activation energies corresponding to AC and DC conductivities has been reexamined.
Tangent-Free Property for Periodic Cells Generated by Some General Piecewise Isometries
Authors: Yu Rongzhong , Fu Xinchu
Published: May 2013

Iterating an orientation-preserving piecewise isometryTofn-dimensional Euclidean space, the phase space can be partitioned with full measure into the union of the rational set consisting of periodically coded points, and the complement of the rational set is usually called the exceptional set. The tangencies between the periodic cells have been studied in some previous papers, and the results showed that almost all disk packings for certain families of planar piecewise isometries have no tangencies. In this paper, the authors further investigate the structure of any periodic cells for a general piecewise isometry of even dimensional Euclidean space and the tangencies between the periodic cells. First, we show that each periodic cell is a symmetrical body to a center if the piecewise isometry is irrational; this result is a generalization of the results in some previously published papers. Second, we show that the periodic cell packing induced by an invertible irrational planar piecewise rotation, such as the Sigma-Delta map and the overflow map, has no tangencies. And furthermore, we generalize the result to general even dimensional Euclidean spaces. Our results generalize and strengthen former research results on this topic.
Passive Control andε-Bound Estimation of Singularly Perturbed Systems with Nonlinear Nonlinearities
Authors: Zhou Linna , Yang Chunyu
Published: May 2013

This paper considers the problems of passivity analysis and synthesis of singularly perturbed systems with nonlinear uncertainties. By a novel storage function depending on the singular perturbation parameterε, a new method is proposed to estimate theε-bound, such that the system is passive when the singular perturbation parameter is lower than theε-bound. Furthermore, a controller design method is proposed to achieve a predefinedε-bound. The proposed results are shown to be less conservative than the existing ones because the adopted storage function is more general. Finally, an RLC circuit is presented to illustrate the advantages and effectiveness of the proposed methods.
A New Validated Stability Indicating RP-HPLC Method for Simultaneous Estimation of Pyridoxine Hydrochloride and Meclizine Hydrochloride in Pharmaceutical Solid Dosage Forms
Authors: Nawaz Md. Saddam
Published: May 2013

A simple, specific, accurate, precise stability indicating reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of pyridoxine hydrochloride (PYH) and meclizine hydrochloride (MEH). An isocratic separation of PYH and MEH were achieved on C 18, 250 × 4.6 mm ID, 5 μm particle size columns at column oven temperature 37°C with a flow rate of 0.5 mL min−1 and using a diode array detector to monitor the detection at 254 nm. The mobile phase consisted of buffer : acetonitrile : trifluoroacetic acid at a ratio of 30 : 70 : 0.1 (v/v). The retention times of PYH and MEH was found to be 5.25 and 10.14 min, respectively. Suitability, specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, stability, and sensitivity of this method for the quantitative determination of the drugs were proved by validation in accordance with the requirements laid down by International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) Q2 (R1) guidelines. The proposed method is reliable and robust and can be used as quality control tool for the estimation of these drugs in combined pharmaceutical solid dosage forms.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Improves Handwriting in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Randhawa Bubblepreet K. , Farley Becky G. , Boyd Lara A.
Published: May 2013

Background. Parkinson disease (PD) is characterized by hypometric movements resulting from loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. PD leads to decreased activation of the supplementary motor area (SMA); the net result of these changes is a poverty of movement. The present study determined the impact of 5 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the SMA on a fine motor movement, handwriting (writing cursive “l”s), and on cortical excitability, in individuals with PD.Methods. In a cross-over design, ten individuals with PD were randomized to receive either 5 Hz or control stimulation over the SMA. Immediately following brain stimulation right handed writing was assessed.Results. 5 Hz stimulation increased vertical size of handwriting and diminished axial pressure. In addition, 5 Hz rTMS significantly decreased the threshold for excitability in the primary motor cortex.Conclusions. These data suggest that in the short term 5 Hz rTMS benefits functional fine motor task performance, perhaps by altering cortical excitability across a network of brain regions. Further, these data may provide the foundation for a larger investigation of the effects of noninvasive brain stimulation over the SMA in individuals with PD.
Calibration Techniques for Low-Power Wireless Multiband Transceiver
Authors: Yin Shouyi , Cui Jianwei , Liu Leibo , Wei Shaojun
Published: May 2013

The low-power wireless transceiver is the basic silicon building block of wireless sensor networks and the internet of things. In this paper, two digital calibration and compensation techniques for low-power wireless multiband transceiver are presented to adjust the VCO's tuning curves in the frequency synthesizer and eliminate the DC offset voltage in the intermediate frequency (IF) pathway. The fuzzy binary search method is applied to VCO calibration, and gain-based DC offset cancellation (DCOC) is applied. Based on these proposed methods, a multiband transceiver is designed and fabricated in 0.18  μm CMOS with 1.8 V voltage supply. Experimental results show that with 24 MHz system clock, frequency synthesizer calibration can be completed within 450 without requiring any additional calibration prescaler, achieving a calibration resolution of 1 MHz; DC offset voltage can be reduced to less than 3.5 mV for 0 to 60 dB gain, with each calibration process taking only 1.28 ms time. The proposed techniques and corresponding circuits are proved to be cost-efficient while maintaining high performance, which is suitable for multiband and multimode transceiver integration.
The Novel Oral Drug Subetta Exerts an Antidiabetic Effect in the Diabetic Goto-Kakizaki Rat: Comparison with Rosiglitazone
Authors: Bailbé Danielle , Philippe Erwann , Gorbunov Evgeniy , Tarasov Sergey , Epstein Oleg , Portha Bernard
Published: May 2013

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential antidiabetic effects of two-component drug Subetta and its components (release-active dilutions of antibodies toβ-subunit insulin receptor (RAD of Abs toβ-InsR) and to endothelial nitric oxide synthase (RAD of Abs to eNOS)) in Goto-Kakizaki (Paris colony) (GK/Par) diabetic rats. Subetta was administered orally for 28 days once daily (5 mL/kg) and compared to its two components (2.5 mL/kg), Rosiglitazone (5 mg/kg), and vehicle (5 mL water/kg). At day 28, fasting plasma glucose levels were significantly decreased only in Subetta and Rosiglitazone groups as compared to vehicle (P<0.01):147±4 mg/dL and145±4 mg/dL and165±4 mg/dL, respectively. The data of glucose tolerance test showed that Subetta and RAD of Abs toβ-InsR (similar to Rosiglitazone) prevented significantly (P<0.01) the age-related spontaneous deterioration of glucose tolerance as seen in the control group. Subetta and RAD of Abs toβ-InsR did not significantly modify the glucose-induced insulin secretion. Chronic administration of Subetta and RAD of Abs toβ-InsR improves glucose control, to an extent similar to that of Rosiglitazone. We hypothesize that Subetta and RAD of Abs toβ-InsR mostly act via an insulin-sensitizing effect upon target tissues.
Generation of OAM Radio Waves Using Circular Vivaldi Antenna Array
Authors: Deng Changjiang , Chen Wenhua , Zhang Zhijun , Li Yue , Feng Zhenghe
Published: May 2013

This paper gives a feasible and simple solution of generating OAM-carrying radio beams. Eight Vivaldi antenna elements connect sequentially and fold into a hollow cylinder. The circular Vivaldi antenna array is fed with unit amplitude but with a successive phase difference from element to element. By changing the phase difference at the steps of 0, ±45°, ±90°, ±135°, and 180°, the OAM radio beam can be generated with mode numbers 0, ±1, ±2, ±3, and 4. Simulations show that the OAM states of ±2 and ±3 are the same as the traditional states, while the OAM states of 0, ±1, and 4 differ at the boresight. This phenomenon can be explained by the radiation pattern difference between Vivaldi antenna and tripole antenna. A solution of distinguishing OAM states is also proposed. The mode number of OAM can be distinguished with only 2 receivers.
A Miniaturized Dual-Mode Bandpass Filter Using Slot Spurline Technique
Authors: Liu Haiwen , Lei Jiuhuai , Wan Jing , Wang Yan , Yang Feng , Peng Suping
Published: May 2013

A miniaturized dual-mode bandpass filter (BPF) with elliptic function response using slot spurline is designed in this paper. The slot spurline can not only splits the degenerate modes but also determine the type of filter characteristic (Chebyshev or elliptic). To miniaturize the resonator, four sagittate stubs are proposed. For demonstration purpose, a BPF operating at 5.75 GHz for WLAN application was designed, fabricated, and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the full-wave simulation results.
Effect of Molecular Sizes of Chondroitin Sulfate on Interaction with L-Selectin
Authors: Igarashi Naoko , Takeguchi Atsuko , Sakai Shinobu , Akiyama Hiroshi , Higashi Kyohei , Toida Toshihiko
Published: May 2013

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is a glycosaminoglycan (GAG) side chain of proteoglycans (PGs) which are widely distributed in the extracellular matrix and at cell surface. CS shows a highly structural diversity in not only molecular weight (MW) but sulfonation pattern. CS has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory activity by having effects on cytokine production by helper T cells. In this study, we focused on the structures of CS chains, especially MW of CS, and investigated effect of the different MW of CS on binding affinity with L-selectin and cytokine production by murine splenocytes. Firstly, we fractionated CS by employing gel　filtration chromatography and obtained several CS fractions with different MW. Then the interaction between fractionated CS and L-selectin was analyzed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Finally, the influence of MW of CS on cytokine production by murine splenocytes was investigated in vitro. The results showed that interferon-gamma production was significantly increased by mouse splenocytes cocultivated with CS. On the contrary, CS inhibited interleukin 5 production by murine splenocytes depending on MW of the cocultivated CS. These results strongly indicate the existence of the optimal molecular size for an anti-inflammatory effect of CS through cytokine production by murine splenocytes.
The Coexistence of Psychiatric Disorders and Intellectual Disability in Children Aged 3–18 Years in the Barwani District, India
Authors: Lakhan Ram
Published: May 2013

Background. The coexistence of psychiatric disorders in people with intellectual disability (ID) is common. This study determined the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children with ID in Barwani, India.Method. A total of 262 children with ID were evaluated for psychiatric disorders using the diagnostic criteria outlined in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10).Results. Psychiatric disorders appeared in study participants at the following rates: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), 6.5%; autism, 4.2%; anxiety, 2.7%; bipolar disorder, 1.1%; delusional disorder, 0.8%; depression, 2.3%; obsessive-compulsive disorder, 0.8%; schizophrenia, 1.9%; enuresis, 10.3%; epilepsy, 23.7%; and behavioral problems, 80.9%. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders was statistically higher in severely intellectually disabled children () than mildly intellectually disabled children ().Conclusions. There is a higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children with ID when their compared with ID children whose .
Role of Scavenger Receptors in Glia-Mediated Neuroinflammatory Response Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Cornejo Francisca , von Bernhardi Rommy
Published: May 2013

It is widely accepted that cells serving immune functions in the brain, namely, microglia and astrocytes, are important mediators of pathological phenomena observed in Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is unknown how these cells initiate the response that results in cognitive impairment and neuronal degeneration. Here, we review the participation of the immune response mediated by glial cells in Alzheimer’s disease and the role played by scavenger receptors in the development of this pathology, focusing on the relevance of class A scavenger receptor (SR-A) for Aβclearance and inflammatory activation of glial cell, and as a potential target for Alzheimer’s disease therapy.
Effect of Deposition Time on the Morphological Features and Corrosion Resistance of Electroless Ni-High P Coatings on Aluminium
Authors: Sridhar N. , Udaya Bhat K.
Published: May 2013

High phosphorus Ni-P alloy was deposited on aluminium substrate using electroless deposition route. Using zincating bath, the surface was activated before deposition. Deposition time was varied from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Deposit was characterised using scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectroscope, X-ray diffraction, and microhardness tester. The corrosion resistance was measured using Tafel extrapolation route. The medium was aqueous 5% HNO3 solution. The analysis showed that the deposit consisted of nodules of submicron and micron scale. The predominant phase in the deposit was nickel along with phosphides of nickel. Compared to substrate material, deposit showed higher hardness. With increase in deposition time, the deposit showed more nobleness in 5% HNO3 solution and nobleness reached a limiting value in 1 hour deposition time.
Therapeutic Destruction of Insulin Receptor Substrates for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Reuveni Hadas , Flashner-Abramson Efrat , Steiner Lilach , Makedonski Kirill , Song Renduo , Shir Alexei , Herlyn Meenhard , Bar-Eli Menashe , Levitzki Alexander
Published: May 2013

Insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2 (IRS1/2) mediate mitogenic and antiapoptotic signaling from insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-IR), insulin receptor (IR), and other oncoproteins. IRS1 plays a central role in cancer cell proliferation, its expression is increased in many human malignancies, and its upregulation mediates resistance to anticancer drugs. IRS2 is associated with cancer cell motility and metastasis. Currently, there are no anticancer agents that target IRS1/2. We present new IGF-IR/IRS-targeted agents (NT compounds) that promote inhibitory Ser-phosphorylation and degradation of IRS1 and IRS2. Elimination of IRS1/2 results in long-term inhibition of IRS1/2-mediated signaling. The therapeutic significance of this inhibition in cancer cells was shown while unraveling a novel mechanism of resistance to B-RAFV600E/K inhibitors. We found that IRS1 is upregulated in PLX4032-resistant melanoma cells and in cell lines derived from patients whose tumors developed PLX4032 resistance. In both settings, NT compounds led to the elimination of IRS proteins and evoked cell death. Treatment with NT compounds in vivo significantly inhibited the growth of PLX4032-resistant tumors and displayed potent antitumor effects in ovarian and prostate cancers. Our findings offer preclinical proof-of-concept for IRS1/2 inhibitors as cancer therapeutics including PLX4032-resistant melanoma. By the elimination of IRS proteins, such agents should prevent acquisition of resistance to mutated-B-RAF inhibitors and possibly restore drug sensitivity in resistant tumors. Cancer Res; 73(14); 4383–94. ©2013 AACR.
A Survivin-Associated Adaptive Response in Radiation Therapy
Authors: Grdina David J. , Murley Jeffrey S. , Miller Richard C. , Mauceri Helena J. , Sutton Harold G. , Li Jian Jian , Woloschak Gayle E. , Weichselbaum Ralph R.
Published: May 2013

Adaptive responses can be induced in cells by very low doses of ionizing radiation resulting in an enhanced resistance to much larger exposures. The inhibitor of apoptosis protein, survivin, has been implicated in many adaptive responses to cellular stress. Computerized axial tomography used in image-guided radiotherapy to position and monitor tumor response uses very low radiation doses ranging from 0.5 to 100 mGy. We investigated the ability of these very low radiation doses administered along with two 2 Gy doses separated by 24 hours, a standard conventional radiotherapy dosing schedule, to initiate adaptive responses resulting in the elevation of radiation resistance in exposed cells. Human colon carcinoma (RKO36), mouse sarcoma (SA-NH), along with transformed mouse embryo fibroblasts, wild type or cells lacking functional tumor necrosis factor receptors 1 and 2 were used to assess their relative ability to express an adaptive response when grown either to confluence in vitro or as tumors in the flank of C57BL/6 mice. The survival of each of these cells was elevated from 5% to 20% (P ≤ 0.05) as compared to cells not receiving a 100 mGy or lesser dose. In addition, the cells exposed to 100 mGy exhibited elevations in survivin levels, reductions in apoptosis frequencies, and loss of an adaptive response if transfected with survivin siRNA. This survivin-mediated adaptive response has the potential for affecting outcomes if regularly induced throughout a course of image guided radiation therapy. Cancer Res; 73(14); 4418–28. ©2013 AACR.
Discovering What Makes STAT Signaling TYK in T-ALL
Authors: Fontan Lorena , Melnick Ari
Published: May 2013

Summary: RNA interference screening establishes TYK2 dependence in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), leading to identification of TYK2-activating mutations and increased IL-10 receptor signaling in T-ALL cell lines. Cancer Discov; 3(5); 494–6. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Sanda et al., p. 564
Two Is Better Than One: Combining IGF1R and MEK Blockade as a Promising Novel Treatment Strategy Against KRAS-Mutant Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Ron , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: May 2013

Summary: A small-molecule inhibitor screen on a panel of human lung cancer cell lines has uncovered an unexpected sensitivity of cells expressing oncogenic KRAS toward insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) inhibition. Combining IGF1R and MAP-ERK kinase blockade led to significant effects on viability in human non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and in 2 mouse models of oncogenic KRAS-driven lung cancer. The mechanistic basis for this effect seems to be an increased baseline activation of IGF1R–mediated activation of AKT in cells that express oncogenic KRAS. The studies thus point to a novel approach for treatment of KRAS-driven NSCLC, a particularly difficult subset of patients to treat with existing approaches. Cancer Discov; 3(5); 491–3. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Molina-Arcas et al., p. 548
Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Periodic Limb Movements in Narcolepsy with Cataplexy: A Systematic Analysis of 35 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Pizza Fabio , Tartarotti Sonja , Poryazova Rositsa , Baumann Christian R. , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: May 2013

Background: Disturbed sleep is a core feature of narcolepsy with cataplexy (NC). Few studies have independently assessed sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and periodic limb movements (PLMs) in non-homogeneous series of patients with and without cataplexy. We systematically assessed both SDB and PLMs in well-defined NC patients. Methods: We analyzed the clinical and polysomnographic features of 35 consecutive NC patients (mean age 40 ± 16 years, 51% males, 23/23 hypocretin-deficient) to assess the prevalence of SDB (apnea-hypopnea index >5) and PLMs (periodic leg movements in sleep (PLMI) >15) together with their impact on nocturnal sleep and daytime sleepiness using the multiple sleep latency test. Results: 11 (31%) and 14 (40%) patients had SDB and PLMs, respectively. SDB was associated with older age (49 ± 16 vs. 35 ± 13 years, p = 0.02), higher BMI (30 ± 5 vs. 27 ± 6, p = 0.05), and a trend towards higher PLMI (25 ± 20 vs. 12 ± 23, p = 0.052), whereas PLMs with older age (50 ± 16 vs. 33 ± 11 years, p = 0.002) and reduced and fragmented sleep (e.g. sleep efficiency of 82 ± 12% vs. 91 ± 6%, p = 0.015; sleep time of 353 ± 66 vs. 395 ± 28, p = 0.010). SDB and PLMs were also mutually associated (p = 0.007), but not correlated to daytime sleepiness. Conclusions: SDB and PLMs are highly prevalent and associated in NC. Nevertheless, SDB and PLMs are rarely severe, suggesting an overall limited effect on clinical manifestations.
Effects of ex vivo γ-Tocopherol on Airway Macrophage Function in Healthy and Mild Allergic Asthmatics
Authors: Geiser Marianne , Lay John C. , Bennett William D. , Zhou Haibo , Wang Xiaoyan , Peden David B. , Alexis Neil E.
Published: May 2013

Elevated inflammation and altered immune responses are features found in atopic asthmatic airways. Recent studies indicate γ-tocopherol (GT) supplementation can suppress airway inflammation in allergic asthma. We studied the effects of in vitro GT supplementation on receptor-mediated phagocytosis and expression of cell surface molecules associated with innate and adaptive immunity on sputum-derived macrophages. Cells from nonsmoking healthy (n = 6) and mild house dust mite-sensitive allergic asthmatics (n = 6) were treated ex vivo with GT (300 µM) or saline (control). Phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan A bioparticles (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and expression of surface molecules associated with innate and adaptive immunity were assessed using flow cytometry. GT caused significantly decreased (p < 0.05) internalization of attached zymosan bioparticles and decreased (p < 0.05) macrophage expression of CD206, CD36 and CD86 in allergic asthmatics but not in controls. Overall, GT caused downregulation of both innate and adaptive immune response elements, and atopic status appears to be an important factor.
Post-Dilution High Convective Transport Improves Microinflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction Independently of the Technique
Authors: Ariza Francisco , Merino Ana , Carracedo Julia , Alvarez de Lara M.Antonia , Crespo Rodolfo , Ramirez Rafael , Martín-Malo Alejandro , Aljama Pedro
Published: May 2013

Background/Aims: We examined the effects of different online hemodiafiltration techniques on microinflammation and endothelial damage/repair. Methods: The study was designed as a prospective crossover study. Flow cytometry was used to measure CD14+CD16+ monocytes, apoptotic endothelial microparticles (EMPs), and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Results: Patients treated with high-flux hemodialysis showed a marked chronic inflammatory state (HF-HD 11 ± 2) versus healthy subjects (HS 3.9 ± 2.3; p < 0.05). High convective transport, independent of the technique used, improves microinflammatory parameters (OL-HDF 7.3 ± 2.1 or MID 6.5 ± 3.4; p < 0.05) and the endothelial damage/repair balance compared to HF-HD (EPCs HF-HD 0.3 ± 0.2), with no differences found between the two modalities (EPCs OL-HDF 0.6 ± 0.1, MID 0.6 ± 0.2; p < 0.05). Conclusion: An increase in convective transport improves the microinflammatory state and the endothelial damage/repair of these patients independently of the technique used.
Pediatric Left Renal Vein Entrapment Syndrome Diagnosed by 99mTc-Albumin-Conjugate Scintigraphy
Authors: Sugimoto Keisuke , Fujita Shinsuke , Miyazawa Tomoki , Nishi Hitomi , Okada Mitsuru , Takemura Tsukasa
Published: May 2013

Background/Aims: Procedures for diagnosis of left renal vein entrapment syndrome (LRVES) in children have been either invasive or limited in accuracy. We examined scintigraphy with 99mTc-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid-conjugated human serum albumin (99mTc-HSA-D) scintigraphy in childhood LRVES, demonstrating selective left renal nuclides excretion. We also measured peak velocity using pulse Doppler ultrasonography, calculating pressure differences between inferior vena cava and left renal vein using a simplified Bernoulli equation. Methods: Thirteen patients provisionally diagnosed with LRVES by ultrasonography combined with other imaging such as magnetic resonance angiography and three-dimensional computer tomography (CT) were examined. Results: Four children showing repeated gross hematuria all showed pressure differences exceeding 3.0 mm Hg. Selective left renal albumin excretion was demonstrated by 99mTc-HSA-D scintigraphy. Single-photon emission CT also showed accumulation in a site consistent with the left renal pelvis. Among 9 children manifesting mainly orthostatic proteinuria, selective left renal albumin excretion examined by 99mTc-HSA-D scintigraphy was demonstrated only in those with proteinuria exceeding 1 g/g Cr after standing in a lordotic position. Pressure differences in patients with orthostatic proteinuria were unrelated to proteinuria severity. Conclusions: Combining pulse Doppler ultrasonography with 99mTc-HSA-D scintigraphy, both noninvasive and safe in children, may suffice for diagnosis of LRVES, especially with gross hematuria.
Comparison of Bioimpedance and Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry for Measurement of Fat Mass in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Molfino Alessio , Don Burl R. , Kaysen George A.
Published: May 2013

Background: Fat mass (FM) is measured with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), but is expensive and not portable. Multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) measures total body water (TBW), intracellular water (ICW) and extracellular water (ECW). FM is calculated by subtracting fat-free mass (FFM) from weight assuming a fractional hydration of FFM of 0.73. Hemodialysis (HD) patients, however, have nonphysiologic expansion of ECW. Our aim was to apply a model to estimate FM in HD patients and controls. Methods: We estimated the hydration of FFM in healthy subjects and HD patients with BIS (Impedimed multifrequency) assuming a hydration of 0.73 or using a model allowing ECW and ICW to vary, deriving a value for FM accounting for variances in ECW and ICW. FM was measured by DXA (Hologic Discovery W) in 25 controls and in 11 HD patients. We measured TBW, ECW and ICW with BIS and calculated FM using either weight - TBW/0.73 or with a model accounting for variations in ECW/ICW to estimate FM. Results: ECW/ICW was greater in HD patients than in controls (0.83 ± 0.08 vs. 0.76 ± 0.04; p = 0.001). FM (kg) measured by DXA or estimated from TBW using constant hydration or accounting for variations in ECW/ICW was not significantly different in controls or in HD patients. Values obtained by all methods correlated (p < 0.001) and none of the Bland-Altman plots regressed (r2 = 0.00). FM measured by DXA and by BIS in both controls and HD patients combined correlated (r2 = 0.871). Conclusion: Expansion of ECW in HD patients is statistically significant; however, the effect on hydration of FFM was insufficient to cause significant deviation from values derived using a hydration value of 0.73 within the range of expansion of ECW in the HD patient population studied here.
Primary Prevention of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease With Penicillin in South African Children With Pharyngitis
Authors: Irlam James , Mayosi Bongani M. , Engel Mark , Gaziano Thomas A.
Published: May 2013

Background—

Acute rheumatic fever and subsequent rheumatic heart disease remain significant in developing countries. We describe a cost-effective analysis of 7 strategies for the primary prevention of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in children presenting with pharyngitis in urban primary care clinics in South Africa.

Methods and Results—

We used a Markov model to assess the cost-effectiveness of treatment with intramuscular penicillin using each of the following strategies: (1) empirical (treat all); (2) positive throat culture (culture all); (3) clinical decision rule (CDR) score ≥2 (CDR 2+); (4) CDR score ≥3 (CDR 3+); (5) treating those with a CDR score ≥2 plus those with CDR score <2 and positive cultures (CDR 2+, culture CDR negatives); (6) treating those with a CDR score ≥3 plus those with CDR score <3 and positive cultures (CDR 3+, culture CDR negatives); and (7) treat none. The strategies ranked in order from lowest cost were treat all ($11.19 per child), CDR 2+ ($11.20); the CDR 3+ ($13.00); CDR 2+, culture CDR negatives ($16.42); CDR 3+, culture CDR negatives ($23.89); and culture all ($27.21). The CDR 2+ is the preferred strategy at less than $150/quality-adjusted life year compared with the treat all strategy. A strategy of culturing all children compared with the CDR 2+ strategy costs more than $125 000/quality-adjusted life year gained.

Conclusions—

Treating all children presenting with pharyngitis in urban primary care clinics in South Africa with intramuscular penicillin is the least costly. A strategy of using a clinical decision rule without culturing is overall the preferred strategy. A strategy of culturing all children may be prohibitively expensive.
Trends in Vascular Risk Factor Treatment and Control in US Stroke Survivors
Authors: Shah Nilay S. , Huffman Mark D. , Ning Hongyan , Lloyd-Jones Donald M.
Published: May 2013

Background—

Treatment and control of vascular risk factors reduce the likelihood of recurrent stroke. Present nationally representative data are sparse regarding secondary prevention treatment and control rates.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated sex- and race-stratified blood pressure, cholesterol, and hemoglobin A1c levels and treatment and control rates in 1154 self-reported stroke survivors from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999 to 2010. We used weighted linear regression to estimate time trends. Participants were 54% to 61% women, 70% to 76% white, and had a mean age of 63 to 66 years. For blood pressure, treatment rates remained unchanged in men, but in women, treatment rates increased from 41% in 1999 to 2000 to 65% in 2009 to 2010 (
P
=0.03), and control rates increased from 23% to 79% (
P
=0.03). Treatment rates remained unchanged in non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, and Mexican Americans, although control rates increased in non-Hispanic whites from 50% in 1999 to 2002 to 69% in 2007 to 2010 (
P
=0.04). For cholesterol, treatment rates increased from 30% to 40% in men (
P
=0.02) and from 28% to 36% (
P
<0.01) in women, but control rates increased only in men, from 62% to 87% (
P
<0.01). Cholesterol treatment rates increased only in non-Hispanic blacks, from 18% to 37% (
P
=0.02). By sex and race, there was no change in dysglycemia treatment and control.

Conclusions—

Despite improvements in blood pressure treatment and control and cholesterol treatment for women and cholesterol treatment and control for men, stroke secondary prevention through treatment and control of vascular risk factors remains suboptimal. Urgent action is needed to improve secondary prevention to reduce stroke morbidity and mortality in this high-risk group.
External Validation of the iScore for Predicting Ischemic Stroke Mortality in Patients in China
Authors: Zhang Ning , Liu Gaifen , Zhang Guohua , Fang Jiming , Wang Yilong , Zhao Xingquan , Pan Yuesong , Guo Li , Wang Yongjun
Published: May 2013

Background and Purpose—

The iScore is a prediction tool developed to estimate the risk of death in patients after hospitalization for an acute ischemic stroke. Our aim was to determine the accuracy of the iScore in patients with ischemic stroke in China.

Methods—

The iScore was used to predict 30-day mortality rate in 11 656 patients and 1-year mortality rate in 11 051 patients with acute ischemic stroke. These patients were identified from the China National Stroke Registry (CNSR) data set. Model discrimination was quantified by calculating the C statistic. The calibration was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results—

The 30-day and 1-year mortality rates were 5.4% and 14.3%, respectively. The C statistics were 0.825 (95% confidence interval, 0.807–0.843) for 30-day mortality and 0.822 (95% confidence interval, 0.810–0.833) for 1-year mortality. The plots of observed versus predicted mortality rates showed excellent model calibration in the external validation samples from the CNSR (Pearson correlation coefficient, 0.925 for 30-day and 0.998 for 1-year mortality; both
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

The iScore reliably predicts 30-day and 1-year mortality in Chinese patients with ischemic stroke.
Excluding students from school: A re-examination from a children’s rights perspective
Authors: Hemphill Sheryl A , Schneider Sharon
Published: May 2013

School exclusion including school suspension is common in Western industrialised countries and has negative effects on excluded students such as alienation from and dropping out of school and engaging in antisocial and violent behaviour. Australia is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on Children’s Rights. The CRC sets out a framework to document and evaluate school policies and practices and specific sections relate to the use of school exclusion (e.g., repeated suspension constitutes the denial of education and reflects failure to guarantee access to education, Article 28 of the CRC). However, in the Australian debates about the use of school suspension and expulsion, rarely is the children’s rights to an education perspective adopted. In this paper, the issues around the use of school suspension are reconsidered through a children’s rights lens. It is concluded that such a view requires consideration in Australia discussions about school exclusion.
Sagittanthera (Hyacinthaceae, Urgineoideae), a new buzz pollinated genus from the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: MARTÍNEZ-AZORÍN MARIO , CRESPO MANUEL B. , DOLD ANTHONY P. , WETSCHNIG WOLFGANG , PINTER MICHAEL , PFOSSER MARTIN , VAN JAARSVELD ERNST
Published: May 2013

Within the framework of a taxonomic revision of subfamily Urgineoideae, we here describe a new genus from south-eastern South Africa. Sagittanthera gen. nov. is at first sight related to Rhadamanthus and Tenicroa, but it can be clearly differentiated by the presence of bracteoles and the anthers connate to form a cone-like structure dehiscing by minute apical pores. This genus is based on Rhadamanthus cyanelloides, an enigmatic species occurring in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It was described on the basis of incomplete material. Recently, Drimia cremnophila and D. mzimvubuensis, two species that match the diagnostic characters of the new genus, were described from the same region. A complete description is presented for Sagittanthera, and data on morphology, ecology, and distribution are also reported. Two species are accepted in this genus, and the necessary combinations are stated. Furthermore, we demonstrate that pollen is released by vibration. This fact together with morphological features of the androecium clearly evidence that buzz pollination occurs in this new genus.
A new tuberculated Pristimantis (Anura, Terrarana, Strabomantidae) from the Venezuelan Andes, redescription of Pristimantis pleurostriatus, and variation within Pristimantis vanadisae
Authors: BARRIO-AMORÓS CÉSAR L. , HEINICKE MATTHEW P. , HEDGES S. BLAIR
Published: May 2013

A new tuberculated Pristimantis is described from the eastern versant of the Venezuelan Andes. The new species is found in cloud forest at around 1600 masl on the eastern side of the Cordillera de Mérida. It is distinguished from other similar tuberculated species by its round, ill-defined canthus rostralis, ill-defined canthal stripe, and absence of pale spots on the groin and posterior surface of thighs. Pristimantis pleurostriatus is a poorly known species found in cloud forest on the western slopes of the Venezuelan Andes. We redescribe the species based on topotypic specimens. Pristimantis vanadisae is a polychomatic species varying dramatically in pattern; four chromotypes are described. Molecular data are presented which distinguish among tuberculated and other species of Pristimantis in the Cordillera de Merida. Molecular data also support placement of Mucubatrachus and Paramophrynella in Pristimantis.
The amathiiform Ctenostomata (phylum Bryozoa) of New Zealand —including four new species, two of them of probable alien origin
Authors: GORDON DENNIS P. , SPENCER-JONES MARY
Published: May 2013

The status of the vesiculariid ctenostome genus Amathia in New Zealand has been evaluated on the basis of all known material, including historic specimens in museums and those newly collected during formal surveillance of ports, harbours and vessels for possible alien species. Eight species are recognised, four of them new to science. Amathia gracei n. sp. and Amathia zealandica n. sp. are the only apparently endemic species. Amathia chimonidesi n. sp. appears to be a pre-viously unrecognised alien species and is known only from shipping harbours and/or yacht marinas and some nearby beaches. Amathia similis n. sp. has been known in the Auckland area since the 1960s but was confused with A. distans Busk. Amathia bicornis (Tenison-Woods), A. biseriata Krauss, A. lamourouxi Chimonides and A. wilsoni Kirkpatrick are Australasian species that occur naturally on both sides of the Tasman Sea. Of this latter group, A. bicornis was discovered only at a single locality on the southwest coast of North Island in 1983 on a fucoid seaweed and it may be relatively re-cently self-introduced. A specimen of A. lendigera (Linnaeus) in the Museum of New Zealand, purportedly from Napier, is considered to be based on a misunderstanding or a labelling error and does not represent a failed alien introduction. The Amathia-like vesiculariid Bowerbankia citrina (Hincks) sensu lato is newly recorded for New Zealand. Keys are provided to the amathiiform (i.e. Amathia and Amathia-like) Ctenostomata of New Zealand and to the worldwide species of Ama-thia and Bowerbankia with zooid clusters spiralled on stoloniform axes.
Descriptions of five new species of Metriaclima (Teleostei: Cichlidae) from Lake Malaŵi, Africa
Authors: STAUFFER JAY JR. R. , BLACK KRISTIN , KONINGS ADRIANUS F.
Published: May 2013

Lake Malaŵi is known for its endemic haplochromine species flock, most notably the rock-dwelling cichlids known as mbuna. One of the larger genera of mbuna is Metriaclima, a group consisting of 31 described species (including the five described herein) and approximately 45 recognized unique populations. Metriaclima is diagnosed by its feeding behavior and several morphological characteristics including the angle of the vomer and the presence of bicuspid teeth in the outer row of both the upper and lower jaws. Metriaclima zebra, the type species for the genus, was described based on a single specimen. While the collection location of this holotype is not known, based on the travel records of its collector, it is likely that the specimen originated from Likoma Island. The holotype was therefore compared to specimens from several localities around this island and was found to be morphologically indistinguishable from some of these. This study includes the morphological analysis of 496 specimens of Metriaclima belonging to 31 collections from Lake Malaŵi. Morphometric differences were analyzed and the relationships among several distinguishable populations of Metriaclima zebra were investigated. Our study further resulted in the description of the following five new species belonging to the M. zebra species com-plex: M. pambazuko, M. lundoense, M. midomo, M. tarakiki, and M. nigrodorsalis. These species were distinguished and described based on color patterns, morphometric, meristic, and ecological differences. These new species were compared with and distinguished from nearby populations of Metriaclima having similar pigmentation patterns and/or similar eco-logical niches. An artificial dichotomous key to the described species of Metriaclima is presented.
Molecular phylogenetics of ponerine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Ponerinae)
Authors: SCHMIDT CHRIS
Published: May 2013

Recent molecular phylogenetic studies of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) have revolutionized our understanding of how these ecologically dominant organisms diversified, but detailed phylogenies are lacking for most major ant subfamilies. I report the results of the first detailed phylogenetic study of the ant subfamily Ponerinae, a diverse cosmopolitan lineage whose properties make it an attractive model system for investigating social and ecological evolution in ants. Molecular sequence data were obtained from four nuclear genes (wingless, long-wavelength rhodopsin, rudimentary [CAD], 28S rD-NA; total of ~3.3 kb) for 86 ponerine taxa, representing all three ponerine tribes, 22 of the 28 currently recognized genera, and 14 of the 18 informal subgenera of Pachycondyla, a heterogeneous grouping whose monophyly is doubtful on mor-phological grounds. Phylogenetic reconstructions using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference support the mono-phyly of Ponerinae and tribe Platythyreini, but fail to support the monophyly of the large tribe Ponerini due to its inclusion of the unusual genus Thaumatomyrmex. Pachycondyla is inferred to be broadly non-monophyletic. Numerous novel ge-neric and suprageneric relationships are inferred within Ponerini, which was found to consist of four major multi-generic clades (the Ponera, Pachycondyla, Plectroctena and Odontomachus genus groups) plus the single genera Hypoponera and Harpegnathos. Uncertainty remains in some regions of the phylogeny, including at the base of Ponerini, possibly reflect-ing rapid radiation. Divergence dating using a Bayesian relaxed clock method estimates an origin for stem Ponerinae in the upper Cretaceous, a major burst of diversification near the K/T boundary, and a rich and continual history of diversi-fication during the Cenozoic. These results fail to support the predictions of the “dynastic-succession hypothesis” previ-ously developed to explain the high species diversity of Ponerinae. Though model-based reconstructions of historical biogeography and trait evolution were not attempted in this study, the phylogeny suggests that ponerine evolution was marked by regionalized radiations and frequent faunal exchange between major biogeographic provinces. The reported results also imply multiple origins of cryptobiotic foraging, mass raiding behavior, and gamergate reproduction within Ponerinae, highlighting the value of the subfamily as a model for studying the incipient evolution of these and other eco-logical and behavioral traits.
Enchytraeidae (Oligochaeta, Annelida) from a field site in Portugal, with the description of five new species and a redescription of Enchylea heteroducta Nielsen & Christensen, 1963
Authors: SCHMELZ RÜDIGER M. , COLLADO RUT
Published: May 2013

Five new species of terrestrial Enchytraeidae (Oligochaeta, Clitellata) are described from an experimental field area in Portugal. Achaeta coimbrensis sp. nov. belongs to a group of species without pyriform glands and with lateral spermathecal ectal pores. Fridericia sousai sp. nov., F. roembkei sp. nov., F. marginata sp. nov., and F. ciliotheca sp. nov. have a maximum of four chaetae per bundle and two spermathecal diverticula, a character combination shared by c. 30 other species of this genus. The new Fridericia species are distinguished from these congeners by combinations of characters, but the ventral pattern of the clitellum alone is sufficient to separate the new species from each other. Enchylea heteroducta Nielsen & Christensen, 1963 is redescribed, this being the first record after the original description and the first record from a natural habitat. Further 16 species of enchytraeids are recorded, and there are now 32 species of enchytraeids known from Portugal.
Revision of Gallerucida singularis species group (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae)
Authors: LEE CHI-FENG , BEZDĔK JAN
Published: May 2013

The Gallerucida singularis species group is established. Gallerucida gebieni Weise, status restored and G. haroldi Weise, status restored are resurrected from synonymy with G. singularis Harold. Lectotypes are designated for G. haroldi and G. tonkinensis Laboissière. The species are differentiated mainly based on the structure of the endophallic sclerites.
Assimilation of Circumpolar Wind Vectors Derived from Highly Elliptical Orbit Imagery: Impact Assessment Based on Observing System Simulation Experiments
Authors: Garand L. , Feng J. , Heilliette S. , Rochon Y. , Trishchenko A. P.
Published: May 2013

There is a well-recognized spatiotemporal meteorological observation gap at latitudes higher than 55°, especially in the region 55°–70°. A possible solution to address this issue is a constellation of four satellites in a highly elliptical orbit (HEO), that is, two satellites for each polar region. An important satellite product to support weather prediction is atmospheric motion wind vectors (AMVs). This study uses observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) to evaluate the benefit to forecasts resulting from the assimilation of HEO AMVs covering one or both polar regions. The OSSE employs the operational global data assimilation system of the Canadian Meteorological Center. HEO AMVs are assimilated north of 50°N and south of 50°S. From 2-month assimilation cycles, the study examines the following three issues: 1) the impact of AMV assimilation in the real system, and how this compares to the impact seen in the simulated system, 2) the added value of HEO AMVs in the Arctic on top of what is currently available, and 3) the relative impact of HEO AMVs in the Arctic and Antarctic in comparison with no AMVs. Although the simulated impact of currently available AMVs is somewhat higher than the real impact, a firm conclusion is that the added value of Arctic HEO AMVs is substantial, improving predictability at days 3–5 by a few hours in terms of 500-hPa geopotential height. The impact of HEO AMVs is relatively stronger in the Southern Hemisphere. Forecast validation of atmospheric profiles against the simulated “true” state and against analyses generated within the assimilation cycles yields very similar results beyond 48 h.