bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Conformation Independent Computational Models for the Early Recognition of Breast Cancer Resistance Protein Substrates
Authors: Gantner Melisa Edith , Di Ianni Mauricio Emiliano , Ruiz María Esperanza , Talevi Alan , Bruno-Blanch Luis E.
Published: August 2013

ABC efflux transporters are polyspecific members of the ABC superfamily that, acting as drug and metabolite carriers, provide a biochemical barrier against drug penetration and contribute to detoxification. Their overexpression is linked to multidrug resistance issues in a diversity of diseases. Breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) is the most expressed ABC efflux transporter throughout the intestine and the blood-brain barrier, limiting oral absorption and brain bioavailability of its substrates. Early recognition of BCRP substrates is thus essential to optimize oral drug absorption, design of novel therapeutics for central nervous system conditions, and overcome BCRP-mediated cross-resistance issues. We present the development of an ensemble of ligand-based machine learning algorithms for the early recognition of BCRP substrates, from a database of 262 substrates and nonsubstrates compiled from the literature. Such dataset was rationally partitioned into training and test sets by application of a 2-step clustering procedure. The models were developed through application of linear discriminant analysis to random subsamples of Dragon molecular descriptors. Simple data fusion and statistical comparison of partial areas under the curve of ROC curves were applied to obtain the best 2-model combination, which presented 82% and 74.5% of overall accuracy in the training and test set, respectively.
Variables Associated with Performance of an Active Limb Movement following Within-Session Instruction in People with and People without Low Back Pain
Authors: Scholtes Sara A. , Norton Barbara J. , Gombatto Sara P. , Van Dillen Linda R.
Published: August 2013

Modification of a movement pattern can be beneficial in decreasing low back pain (LBP) symptoms. There is variability, however, in how well people are able to modify performance of a movement. What has not been identified is the factors that may affect a person’s ability to modify performance of a movement. We examined factors related to performance of active hip lateral rotation (HLR) following standardized instructions in people with and people without LBP. Data were collected during performance of HLR under 3 conditions: passive, active, and active instructed. In people with LBP, motion demonstrated during the passive condition (r=0.873,P<0.001), motion demonstrated during the active condition (r=0.654,P=0.008), and gender (r=0.570,P=0.027) were related to motion demonstrated during the active-instructed condition. Motion demonstrated during the passive condition explained 76%(P<0.001)of the variance in motion demonstrated during the active-instructed condition. A similar relationship did not exist in people without LBP. The findings of the study suggest that it may be important to assess motion demonstrated during passive HLR to determine how difficult it will be for someone with LBP to modify the performance of HLR. Prognosis should be worst for those who display similar movement patterns during passive HLR and active-instructed HLR.
Risk-Averse Suppliers’ Optimal Pricing Strategies in a Two-Stage Supply Chain
Authors: Shen Rui , Meng Zhiqing , Xu Xinsheng , Jiang Min
Published: August 2013

Risk-averse suppliers’ optimal pricing strategies in two-stage supply chains under competitive environment are discussed. The suppliers in this paper focus more on losses as compared to profits, and they care their long-term relationship with their customers. We introduce for the suppliers a loss function, which covers both current loss and future loss. The optimal wholesale price is solved under situations of risk neutral, risk averse, and a combination of minimizing loss and controlling risk, respectively. Besides, some properties of and relations among these optimal wholesale prices are given as well. A numerical example is given to illustrate the performance of the proposed method.
The Oxidation of 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene with an Ozone‐Oxygen Mixture: A Simple Method for Preparation of 1,3,5‐Trinitrobenzene
Authors: Zarei Mohammad Ali , Tahermansouri Hasan , Bayat Yadollah
Published: August 2013

The oxidation of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) to 1,3,5‐trinitrobenzene (TNB) in one step, 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzoic acid (TNBA), and 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzaldehyde (TNBAl) with an ozone‐oxygen mixture in different solvents, catalysts, and temperatures has been investigated. Reducing the number of steps in the oxidation of TNT to TNB is the major advantage of this procedure with respect to conventional processes such as chromic acid and potassium permanganate. The oxidation of TNT to TNB was completed in one step as compared to two steps in the conventional approach. The products were obtained with relatively good yield.
Docetaxel Conjugate Nanoparticles That Target α-Smooth Muscle Actin–Expressing Stromal Cells Suppress Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Murakami Mami , Ernsting Mark J. , Undzys Elijus , Holwell Nathan , Foltz Warren D. , Li Shyh-Dar
Published: August 2013

Docetaxel-conjugate nanoparticles, known as Cellax, were synthesized by covalently conjugating docetaxel and polyethylene glycol to acetylated carboxymethylcellulose via ester linkages, yielding a polymeric conjugate that self-assembled into 120 nm particles suitable for intravenous administration. In 4T1 and MDA-MB-231 orthotopic breast tumor models, Cellax therapy reduced α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) content by 82% and 70%, respectively, whereas native docetaxel and nab-paclitaxel (albumin-paclitaxel nanoparticle, Abraxane) exerted no significant antistromal activity. In Cellax-treated mice, tumor perfusion was increased by approximately 70-fold (FITC-lectin binding), tumor vascular permeability was enhanced by more than 30% (dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging), tumor matrix was decreased by 2.5-fold (immunohistochemistry), and tumor interstitial fluid pressure was suppressed by approximately 3-fold after Cellax therapy compared with the control, native docetaxel, and nab-paclitaxel groups. The antistromal effect of Cellax treatment corresponded to a significantly enhanced antimetastatic effect: lung nodules were reduced by 7- to 24-fold by Cellax treatment, whereas native docetaxel and nab-paclitaxel treatments were ineffective. Studies of the 4T1 tumor showed that more than 85% of the Cellax nanoparticles were delivered to the α-SMA+ stroma. Significant tumor stromal depletion occurred within 16 hours (∼50% depletion) postinjection, and the α-SMA+ stroma population was almost undetectable (∼3%) by 1 week. The 4T1 tumor epithelial cell population was not significantly reduced in the week after Cellax injection. These data suggest that Cellax targets tumor stroma and performs more efficaciously than docetaxel and nab-paclitaxel. Cancer Res; 73(15); 4862–71. ©2013 AACR.
Adipocyte-Derived Fibroblasts Promote Tumor Progression and Contribute to the Desmoplastic Reaction in Breast Cancer
Authors: Bochet Ludivine , Lehuédé Camille , Dauvillier Stéphanie , Wang Yuan Yuan , Dirat Béatrice , Laurent Victor , Dray Cédric , Guiet Romain , Maridonneau-Parini Isabelle , Le Gonidec Sophie , Couderc Bettina , Escourrou Ghislaine , Valet Philippe , Muller Catherine
Published: August 2013

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) comprise the majority of stromal cells in breast cancers, yet their precise origins and relative functional contributions to malignant progression remain uncertain. Local invasion leads to the proximity of cancer cells and adipocytes, which respond by phenotypical changes to generate fibroblast-like cells termed as adipocyte-derived fibroblasts (ADF) here. These cells exhibit enhanced secretion of fibronectin and collagen I, increased migratory/invasive abilities, and increased expression of the CAF marker FSP-1 but not α-SMA. Generation of the ADF phenotype depends on reactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in response to Wnt3a secreted by tumor cells. Tumor cells cocultivated with ADFs in two-dimensional or spheroid culture display increased invasive capabilities. In clinical specimens of breast cancer, we confirmed the presence of this new stromal subpopulation. By defining a new stromal cell population, our results offer new opportunities for stroma-targeted therapies in breast cancer. Cancer Res; 73(18); 5657–68. ©2013 AACR.
Increased Frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T Cells as a Pharmacodynamic Biomarker for Anti-CTLA-4 Therapy
Authors: Ng Tang Derek , Shen Yu , Sun Jingjing , Wen Sijin , Wolchok Jedd D. , Yuan Jianda , Allison James P. , Sharma Padmanee
Published: August 2013

Pharmacodynamic biomarkers can play an important role in understanding whether a therapeutic agent has “hit its target” to impact biologic function. A pharmacodynamic biomarker for anti-CTLA-4 therapy remains to be elucidated. We previously reported that anti-CTLA-4 therapy increases the frequency of CD4 T cells expressing the inducible costimulator (ICOS) molecule. To determine whether the frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T cells could be used as a pharmacodynamic biomarker for anti-CTLA-4 therapy, we carried out flow cytometric studies and statistical analyses on data from 56 individuals, which included 10 healthy donors, 36 patients who received anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody (mAb), and 10 patients who received treatment with a different immunomodulatory agent (gp100 DNA vaccine). After treatment with anti-CTLA-4 mAb (ipilimumab; Bristol-Myers Squibb), we detected a statistically significant increase in the frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T-cells. After two doses of anti-CTLA-4 therapy, the assay was found to have an estimated specificity of 96% [95% confidence interval (CI), 88–100] and sensitivity of 71% (95% CI, 54–85), with positive expression defined as a frequency that is more than the upper bound of 95% CI among baseline samples from all subjects. Our data suggest that an increased frequency of ICOS+ CD4 T cells measured by flow cytometry can be used as a reproducible pharmacodynamic biomarker to indicate biologic activity in the setting of anti-CTLA-4 therapy, which should enable appropriate immune monitoring to determine whether patients receiving anti-CTLA-4 monotherapy or combination treatment strategies are having an adequate biologic response. Cancer Immunol Res; 1(4); 229–34. ©2013 AACR.
Genetic association of five plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) polymorphisms and idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss in Korean women
Authors: Jeon Young Joo , Kim Young Ran , Lee Bo Eun , Choi Yi Seul , Kim Ji Hyang , Shin Ji Eun , Rah HyungChul , Cha Sun Hee , Lee Woo Sik , Kim Nam Keun
Published: August 2013

Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) is important for maintaining pregnancy. Aberrantly increased PAI-1 levels may contribute to thrombosis and inflammation, leading to pregnancy loss. This study investigated the association of PAI-1 polymorphisms (PAI-1 rs2227631 [-844G>A], rs1799889 [-675 4G/5G], rs6092 [43G>A], rs2227694 [9785G>A], and rs7242 [11053T>G]) with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in Korean women. We screened 308 RPL patients and 227 control participants for five PAI-1 polymorphisms. Genotyping of PAI-1 was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. PAI-1 4G4G and -844AA/ 4G4G/11053GG genotypes were associated with RPL. PAI-1 -844A/4G/43G/9785G/11053G haplotype was connected to hypofibrinolytic status (i.e. increased levels of plasma PAI-1, increased numbers of platelets, reduced prothrombin time, and reduced activated partial thromboplastin time). Moreover, PAI-1 11053TG+GG frequency was positively related to plasma homocysteine and urate levels, whereas -844AA frequency was associated with plasma folate concentrations according to ordinal logistic regression analysis. Based on these results, we propose that PAI-1 -844G>A, 4G/5G, and 11053T>G polymorphisms are markers of RPL.
Current State of Clinical Translation of Cardioprotective Agents for Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kloner Robert A.
Published: August 2013

There is continued interest in the concept of limiting myocardial infarct size with adjunctive agents administered along with reperfusion injury; however, there remains considerable controversy in the literature. The purpose of this article is to review the medical literature on clinical trials performed during the past 3 years that have attempted to reduce myocardial infarct size by administration of adjunctive therapies along with reperfusion therapy. A PubMed-driven literature search revealed a host of clinical trials focusing on the following prominent types of therapies: endogenous conditioning (postconditioning and remote ischemic conditioning); rapid cooling; pharmacological therapy (cyclosporine, abciximab, clopidogrel, tirofiban, erythropoietin, thrombus aspiration, adenosine, glucose–insulin–potassium, statins, antidiabetic agents, FX06, iron chelation, and ranolazine). Although there remains some controversy, quite a few of these studies showed that adjunctive therapy further reduced myocardial infarct size when coupled with reperfusion. Antiplatelet agents are emerging as some of the newest agents that seem to have cardioprotective capabilities. Postconditioning has become a bit more controversial in the clinical literature; remote conditioning, early and rapid cooling, adenosine, and ranolazine are intriguing therapies deserving of larger studies. Certain agents and maneuvers, such as erythropoietin, protein kinase C δ inhibitors, iron chelation, and intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, perhaps should be retired. The correct adjunctive therapy administered along with reperfusion has the capability of further reducing myocardial injury during ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction.
Cardioprotection and Myocardial Reperfusion
Authors: Vander Heide Richard S. , Steenbergen Charles
Published: August 2013

With the advent of thrombolytic therapy and angioplasty, it has become possible to reduce myocardial infarct size through early reperfusion. Enormous effort has been expended to find therapies that can further reduce infarct size after early intervention. Animal studies have identified many cardioprotective pathways that have the potential to reduce infarct size if activated before the onset of ischemia. More recently, interventions effective at the onset of reperfusion have been described. Although basic research has identified many targets, most has been conducted in rodent models which may not be directly applicable to human disease and even promising agents have been disappointing in large-scale clinical trials. There are many potential explanations for this failure which is the subject of this review. Potential factors include (1) the variability inherent in the patient population, whereas animal studies usually use single sex homogeneous groups maintained on standard diets in carefully controlled environments; (2) the duration of ischemia is generally shorter in animal studies, resulting in potentially more salvageable myocardium than is often the case in patients; (3) that the animals are usually young without comorbidities, whereas the patient population is generally older and has significant comorbidities; (4) animals are not treated with medications a priori, whereas the patient population is often taking medications that may affect ischemic injury; and (5) animal studies may not involve thorough assessment of effects on organs other than the heart, whereas patients can experience adverse effects of treatment in other organs that can preclude clinical use.
Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Silent Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Russo Cesare , Jin Zhezhen , Homma Shunichi , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Rundek Tatjana , Yoshita Mitsuhiro , DeCarli Charles , Wright Clinton B. , Sacco Ralph L. , Di Tullio Marco R.
Published: August 2013

Background—

Silent brain infarcts (SBIs) and white matter hyperintensities are subclinical cerebrovascular lesions associated with incident stroke and cognitive decline. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is a predictor of stroke in patients with heart failure, but its association with subclinical brain disease in the general population is unknown. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) can detect subclinical cardiac dysfunction even when LVEF is normal. We investigated the relationship of LVEF and GLS with subclinical brain disease in a community-based cohort.

Methods and Results—

LVEF and GLS were assessed by 2-dimensional and speckle-tracking echocardiography in 439 participants free of stroke and cardiac disease from the Cardiovascular Abnormalities and Brain Lesions (CABL) study. SBIs and white matter hyperintensities were assessed by brain MRI. Mean age of the study population was 69±10 years, 61% were women, LVEF was 63.8±6.4%, GLS was −17.1±3.0%. SBIs were detected in 53 participants (12%), white matter hyperintensity volume was 0.63±0.86%. GLS was significantly lower in participants with SBI versus those without (−15.7±3.5% versus −17.3±2.9%,
P
<0.01), whereas no difference in LVEF was observed (63.3±8.6% versus 63.8±6.0%,
P
=0.60). In multivariate analysis, lower GLS was associated with SBI (odds ratio/unit decrease=1.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.33;
P
<0.01), whereas LVEF was not (odds ratio/unit increase=1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.96–1.05;
P
=0.98). Lower GLS was associated with greater white matter hyperintensity volume (adjusted β=0.11,
P
<0.05), unlike LVEF (adjusted β=−0.04,
P
=0.42).

Conclusions—

Lower GLS was independently associated with subclinical brain disease in a community-based cohort without overt cardiac disease. GLS can provide additional information on cerebrovascular risk burden beyond LVEF assessment.
Brugada Syndrome Behind Complete Right Bundle-Branch Block
Authors: Aizawa Yoshiyasu , Takatsuki Seiji , Sano Motoaki , Kimura Takehiro , Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Fukumoto Kotaro , Tanimoto Yoko , Tanimoto Kojiro , Murata Mitsushige , Komatsu Takashi , Mitamura Hideo , Ogawa Satoshi , Funazaki Toshikazu , Sato Masahito , Aizawa Yoshifusa , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: August 2013

Background—

The characteristic ECG of Brugada syndrome (BS) can be masked by complete right bundle-branch block (CRBBB) and exposed by resolution of the block or pharmacological or pacing maneuvers.

Methods and Results—

The study consisted of 11 patients who had BS and CRBBB. BS was diagnosed before the development of CRBBB, on the resolution of CRBBB, or from new characteristic ST-segment changes that could be attributable to BS. Structural heart diseases were excluded, and coronary spasm was excluded on the basis of a provocation test at catheterization. In 7 patients, BS was diagnosed before the development of CRBBB. BS was diagnosed when CRBBB resolved spontaneously (n=1) or by right ventricular pacing (n=3). The precipitating cause for the spontaneous resolution of CRBBB, however, was not apparent. On repeated ECGs, new additional upward-convex ST-segment elevation was found in V
2
or V
3
in 3 patients. In 2 patients, new ST-segment elevation was induced by class I
C
drugs. The QRS duration was more prolonged in patients with BS and CRBBB compared with age- and sex-matched controls: 170±13 versus 145±15 milliseconds in V
1
and 144±19 versus 128±7 milliseconds in V
5
(both
P
<0.0001). The amplitude of R in V
1
was larger in the BS patients than in the control subjects (
P
=0.0323), but that of R′ was similar (
P
=0.0560).

Conclusions—

BS can coexist behind CRBBB, and CRBBB can completely mask BS. BS might be demonstrated by relief of CRBBB or by spontaneous or drug-induced ST-segment elevation. The prevalence, mechanism, and clinical significance of a combination of CRBBB and BS are yet to be determined.
Selective Inhibition of the Master Regulator Transcription Factor Egr‐1 With Catalytic Oligonucleotides Reduces Myocardial Injury and Improves Left Ventricular Systolic Function in a Preclinical Model of Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rayner Benjamin S. , Figtree Gemma A. , Sabaretnam Tharani , Shang Ping , Mazhar Jawad , Weaver James C. , Lay William N. , Witting Paul K. , Hunyor Stephen N. , Grieve Stuart M. , Khachigian Levon M. , Bhindi Ravinay
Published: August 2013

Background

Egr‐1 is implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury. The aim of this study was to ascertain the effectiveness of intracoronary delivery of
DNA
zyme targeting the transcription factor Egr‐1 at reperfusion following experimental myocardial ischemia.

Methods and Results

Functional
DNA
zyme targeting Egr‐1 or a size‐matched scrambled control were delivered via the intracoronary route immediately on reperfusion after 60 minutes' balloon occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery in a pig model of myocardial I/R injury (n=7 per treatment group). Heart function and extent of myocardial infarction were determined following intervention by echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. Hearts were removed and examined for molecular and histological markers of inflammation and apoptosis. Administration of functional
DNA
zyme led to an overall decrease in the expression of inflammatory markers including intracellular adhesion molecule‐1, tissue factor, and complement 3, with associated decreases in the extent of neutrophil infiltration, oxidative damage, and subsequent apoptosis within the infarct border zone. Functional significance was indicated by an increase in salvaged left ventricular myocardium (
P
=0.012), ejection fraction (
P
=0.002), and fractional area change (
P
=0.039) in the functional
DNA
zyme–treated group compared with the control.

Conclusions

Egr‐1 silencing through intracoronary delivery of a targeting
DNA
zyme at the time of reperfusion following acute myocardial ischemia decreases myocardial inflammation and apoptosis leading to improved cardiac function.
Angiotensin Receptor–Binding Protein ATRAP/
Agtrap
Inhibits Metabolic Dysfunction With Visceral Obesity
Authors: Maeda Akinobu , Tamura Kouichi , Wakui Hiromichi , Dejima Toru , Ohsawa Masato , Azushima Kengo , Kanaoka Tomohiko , Uneda Kazushi , Matsuda Miyuki , Yamashita Akio , Miyazaki Nobuko , Yatsu Keisuke , Hirawa Nobuhito , Toya Yoshiyuki , Umemura Satoshi
Published: August 2013

Background

Metabolic disorders with visceral obesity have become a major medical problem associated with the development of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia and, ultimately, life‐threatening cardiovascular and renal diseases. Adipose tissue dysfunction has been proposed as the cause of visceral obesity‐related metabolic disorders, moving the tissue toward a proinflammatory phenotype.

Methods and Results

Here we first report that adipose tissues from patients and mice with metabolic disorders exhibit decreased expression of
ATRAP
/
Agtrap
, which is a specific binding modulator of the angiotensin
II
type 1 receptor, despite its abundant expression in adipose tissues from normal human and control mice. Subsequently, to examine a functional role of
ATRAP
in the pathophysiology of metabolic disorders, we produced homozygous
ATRAP
deficient (
Agtrap
−/−
) mice, which exhibited largely normal physiological phenotype at baseline. Under dietary high fat loading,
Agtrap
−/−
mice displayed systemic metabolic dysfunction, characterized by an increased accumulation of pad fat, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, along with adipose tissue inflammation. Conversely, subcutaneous transplantation of donor fat pads overexpressing
ATRAP
derived from
Agtrap
transgenic mice to
Agtrap
−/−
recipient mice improved the systemic metabolic dysfunction.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that
Agtrap
−/−
mice are an effective model of metabolic disorders with visceral obesity and constitute evidence that
ATRAP
plays a protective role against insulin resistance, suggesting a new therapeutic target in metabolic disorders. Identification of
ATRAP
as a novel receptor binding modulator of adipose tissue inflammation not only has cardiovascular significance but may have generalized implication in the regulation of tissue function.
Mirror Brain: Picture and Experience
Authors: Weissensteiner Elisabeth , Brückner Dorothea
Published: August 2013

The installation Mirror Brain was developed by artist Elisabeth Weissensteiner and neurobiologist Dorothea Brückner at the University of Bremen, Germany, where it was launched. The installation, a contemporary work of hybrid art, establishes a philosophical play with viewers-turned-actors rather than an interpretation of neuroscience. Thus it provides a metaphor—a mirro—for the role of neurobiology in science and in art. Based on the project, this paper elaborates on how artistic and scientific depiction differ from each other.
The genus Buenoa Kirkaldy, 1904 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha: Notonectidae) in northern Brazil: inventory, new records, and new species
Authors: BARBOSA JULIANNA FREIRES , NESSIMIAN JORGE LUIZ
Published: August 2013

The genus Buenoa contains 69 described species, 15 occurring in the North Region of Brazil. Here we present new records for the States of Pará, Amazonas, Roraima, and Rondônia. We examined 16 species: B. amnigenoidea Nieser, 1970, B. amnigenopsis Nieser, 1975, B. amnigenus White, 1879, B. exilidens Barbosa, Nessimian & Ferreira-Keppler, 2010, B. dilaticrus Barbosa, Nessimian & Ferreira-Keppler, 2010, B. femoralis (Fieber, 1851), B. fuscipennis (Berg, 1879), B. incompta Truxal, 1953, B. konta Nieser & Pelli, 1994, B. macrotrichia Truxal, 1953, B. platycnemis (Fieber, 1851), B. salutis Kirkaldy, 1904, B. tarsalis, Truxal, 1953, B. tibialis Truxal, 1957, B. truxali Nieser, 1968, and B. unguis Truxal, 1953; and a new species, B. deplanatylus Barbosa & Nessimian sp. nov. We found no material of four species with bibliographic records for the region: B. communis Truxal, 1953, B. pallens (Champion, 1901), B. pallipes (Fabricius, 1803), and B. paranensis Jaczewski, 1928.
Rediscovery and re-description of Ischnocnema nigriventris (Lutz, 1925) (Anura: Terrarana: Brachycephalidae)
Authors: BERNECK BIANCA V. M. , TARGINO MARIANE , GARCIA PAULO CHRISTIANO DE ANCHIETTA
Published: August 2013

Besides its brief original description in 1925 and information provided by one specimen collected in the 1980s, nothing else is known for Ischnocnema nigriventris (Lutz, 1925). Also, the poor preservation of the type series has hindered the association of this name with any known population of Ischnocnema. Fieldwork in Bertioga municipality, state of São Paulo, Brazil, revealed a population of Ischnocnema to which we were able to apply the name Ischnocnema nigriventris. We report this rediscovery, re-describe the species on the basis of the newly found specimens, and describe its mating call. Ischnocnema nigriventris is allocated to the Ischnocnema lactea species series and we propose a diagnosis based on a combination of morphological character states. The species is diagnosed by prominent conical tubercles on the upper eyelid, inguinal region and hidden areas of the hind limbs with yellow mottling in males and orange mottling in females, and by its advertisement call composed of two to four non-pulsed notes, the first one differentiated from the others by its lower intensity and different frequency. Ischnocnema nigriventris is only known from Parque das Neblinas (Bertioga municipality), Paranapiacaba (Santo André municipality), and Boracéia (Salesópolis municipality), localities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil
A new species of Satyrichthys (Teleostei: Peristediidae) from the Maldives Archipelago (Indian Ocean)
Authors: POGOREUTZ CLAUDIA , VITECEK SIMON , AHNELT HARALD
Published: August 2013

A new species of the genus Satyrichthys, Satyrichthys kikingeri sp. nov., is described from the Rasdhoo Atoll, Maldives Archipelago. The new species is placed in a group of Satyrichthys with at least three lip barbels and unequal parietal bones. It differs from its congeners in the combination of the following characters: (1) 3/3 lip and 1/0 chin barbels, (2) 15 fin rays in the second dorsal fin, 13 fin rays in the anal fin, (3) 25 bony plates in the dorsal, 29 in the upper lateral and 20 in the lower lateral rows, (4) 21st to 28th bony plates in the upper lateral row with forward directed spines and (5) parietal bones unequal in size on midline. Satyrichthys kikingeri sp. nov. is the first Satyrichthys species reported from the Republic of the Maldives.
Ompok karunkodu, a new catfish (Teleostei: Siluridae) from southern India
Authors: NG HEOK HEE
Published: August 2013

Ompok karunkodu, a new species of silurid catfish is described from the Amaravathi River, a right-hand tributary of the Kaveri [=Cauvery] River in Tamil Nadu, southern India. Ompok karunkodu can be distinguished from all congeners in the Indian subcontinent in having a markedly convex predorsal profile (vs. with a slight or distinct concavity in the supraethmoidal or supraoccipital region), and a unique combination of the following characters: prognathous lower jaw causing anterior profile of head to appear rounded when viewed laterally, maxillary barbel reaching to base of pectoral-fin spine, eye diameter 13.7% HL, head width 13.0% SL, body depth at anus 14.2% SL, 65 anal-fin rays, caudal peduncle depth 5.0% SL, caudal-fin length 12.6% SL, caudal fin with rounded lobes, 54 vertebrae, and dark midlateral stripe running along sides of body.
First species of the family Bogidiellidae Hertzog, 1936 (Crustacea: Amphipoda) in Chilean groundwaters: Patagongidiella wefkoi n. sp.
Authors: PÉREZ-SCHULTHEISS JORGE
Published: August 2013

The first Chilean species of Bogidiellid amphipod, Patagongidiella wefkoi n. sp., is described from freshwater springs in the Osorno Province, Los Lagos Region. The new taxon is characterized principally by the structure of the hypertrophied facial robust seta present on the peduncle of male uropod 1, and the modified dimorphic setae on the exopod of male pleopod 2. The new species is described and illustrated and its morphological relationships with the other species of this group are discussed.
Southeastern U.S. Daily Temperature Ranges Associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation
Authors: Gilford Daniel M. , Smith Shawn R. , Griffin Melissa L. , Arguez Anthony
Published: August 2013

The daily temperature range (DTR; daily maximum temperature minus daily minimum temperature) at 290 southeastern U.S. stations is examined with respect to the warm and cold phases of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) for the period of 1948–2009. A comparison of El Niño and La Niña DTR distributions during 3-month seasons is conducted using various metrics. Histograms show each station’s particular distribution. To compare directly the normalized distributions of El Niño and La Niña, a new metric (herein called conditional ratio) is produced and results are evaluated for significance at 95% confidence with a bootstrapping technique. Results show that during 3-month winter, spring, and autumn seasons DTRs above 29°F (16.1°C) are significantly more frequent during La Niña events and that DTRs below 15°F (8.3°C) are significantly more frequent during El Niño events. It is hypothesized that these results are associated spatially with cloud cover and storm tracks during each season and ENSO phase. Relationships between DTRs and ENSO-related relative humidity are examined. These results are pertinent to the cattle industry in the Southeast, allowing ranchers to plan for and mitigate threats posed by periods of low DTRs associated with the predicted phase of ENSO.
Quantifying Surface Energy Fluxes in the Vicinity of Inland-Tracking Tropical Cyclones
Authors: Andersen Theresa K. , Radcliffe David E. , Shepherd J. Marshall
Published: August 2013

Tropical cyclones (TCs) typically weaken or transition to extratropical cyclones after making landfall. However, there are cases of TCs maintaining warm-core structures and intensifying inland unexpectedly, referred to as TC maintenance or intensification events (TCMIs). It has been proposed that wet soils create an atmosphere conducive to TC maintenance by enhancing surface latent heat flux (LHF). In this study, “HYDRUS-1D” is used to simulate the surface energy balance in intensification regions leading up to four different TCMIs. Specifically, the 2-week magnitudes and trends of soil temperature, sensible heat flux (SHF), and LHF are analyzed and compared across regions. While TCMIs are most common over northern Australia, theoretically linked to large fluxes from hot sands, the results revealed that SHF and LHF are equally large over the south-central United States. Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) 3-hourly LHF data were obtained for the same HYDRUS study regions as well as nearby ocean regions along the TC path 3 days prior (prestorm) to the TC appearance. Results indicate that the simulated prestorm mean LHF is similar in magnitude to that obtained from MERRA, with slightly lower values overall. The modeled 3-day mean fluxes over land are less than those found over the ocean; however, the maximum LHF over the 3-day period is greater over land (HYDRUS) than over the ocean (MERRA) for three of four cases. It is concluded that LHF inland can achieve similar magnitudes to that over the ocean during the daytime and should be pursued as a potential energy source for inland TCs.
Interannual Variability of Monsoon Precipitation and Local Subcloud Equivalent Potential Temperature
Authors: Hurley John V. , Boos William R.
Published: August 2013

The interannual variability of monsoon precipitation is described in the context of a convective quasi-equilibrium framework. Using two reanalysis products and two global precipitation datasets, the authors examine linear relationships between seasonal anomalies of precipitation and subcloud equivalent potential temperature (θeb) local to six monsoon regions. This approach provides a single near-surface thermodynamically relevant variable over both land and ocean, extending previous studies of interannual monsoon variability that emphasized ocean surface temperatures. After removing the variability linearly associated with an index of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, positive monsoon precipitation anomalies are shown to be associated with enhanced θeblocal to and slightly poleward of the climatological θebmaximum. The variations in continental θeblocal to the monsoon precipitation maxima are mainly due to variations in subcloud specific humidity, with changes in subcloud temperature having the opposite sign. Motivated by the fact that some of these subcloud humidity anomalies occur over deserts poleward of monsoon regions, the relationship of 700-hPa flow with precipitation is examined, and enhanced precipitation in several regions is found to covary with the properties of shallow meridional circulations. The implications of these results for the understanding of monsoon interannual variability are discussed.
Long-Term Variations of Broad-Scale Asian Summer Monsoon Circulation and Possible Causes
Authors: Zuo Zhiyan , Yang Song , Zhang Renhe , Jiang Pinping , Zhang Li , Wang Fang
Published: August 2013

The widely applied Webster–Yang index (WYI), which measures the broad-scale dynamical features of the Asian summer monsoon (ASM), has experienced robust interannual and interdecadal variations and a decreasing tendency, with apparent shifts in 1972. The WYI exhibits moderate variability and frequent positive phases before 1972, intensive interannual variability during 1972–98, and an obvious decreasing tendency and mainly negative phase afterward. The vertical shear easterly anomalies over the tropics/subtropics and the anomalous vertical shear anticyclonic circulation over Eurasia (Eu) are the background for the decreasing WYI, associated with reduced summer precipitation around the Bay of Bengal and Sumatra. On interdecadal time scales, the negative (positive) Atlantic multidecadal oscillation (AMO) is characterized by cooling (warming) in Eurasian tropospheric temperature (TT) via the North Atlantic Oscillation. Global warming manipulates the increasing tendency and the interannual variability of TT over the Indian Ocean (IO). The mutual effects of AMO on Eurasian TT and global warming on Indian Ocean TT correspond to the similar decreasing tendency and interdecadal shift of the difference in TT between Eurasia and the Indian Ocean (EuTT − IOTT) with those of the ASM. Thus, the AMO and global warming seem to cause the interdecadal variability of ASM. Although the interannual relationship between Niño-3 SST and ASM weakens recently as a result of the weakening tendency of ASM, the Niño-3 SST still plays an important role in ASM variability via EuTT − IOTT anomalies. In addition, the WYI in the National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP–NCAR) reanalysis shows a larger decreasing tendency for 1999–2010 compared to other reanalysis products, a plausible reason for the inconsistent variations between land–sea thermal contrast and the NCEP–NCAR WYI during that period.
How Important is Vegetation Phenology for European Climate and Heat Waves?
Authors: Lorenz Ruth , Davin Edouard L. , Lawrence David M. , Stöckli Reto , Seneviratne Sonia I.
Published: August 2013

It has been hypothesized that vegetation phenology may play an important role for the midlatitude climate. This study investigates the impact of interannual and intraseasonal variations in phenology on European climate using regional climate model simulations. In addition, it assesses the relative importance of interannual variations in vegetation phenology and soil moisture on European summer climate.

It is found that drastic phenological changes have a smaller effect on mean summer and spring climate than extreme changes in soil moisture (roughly ¼ of the temperature anomaly induced by soil moisture changes). However, the impact of phenological anomalies during heat waves is found to be more important. Generally, late and weak greening has amplifying effects and early and strong greening has dampening effects on heat waves; however, regional variations are found. The experiments suggest that in the extreme hot 2003 (western and central Europe) and 2007 (southeastern Europe) summers the decrease in leaf area index amplified the heat wave peaks by about 0.5°C for daily maximum temperatures (about half of the effect induced by soil moisture deficit). In contrast to earlier hypotheses, no anomalous early greening in spring 2003 is seen in the phenological dataset employed here. Hence, the results indicate that vegetation feedbacks amplified the 2003 heat wave but were not responsible for its initiation. In conclusion, the results suggest that phenology has a limited effect on European mean summer climate, but its impact can be as important as that induced by soil moisture anomalies in the context of specific extreme events.
The Impact of Ice Phase Cloud Parameterizations on Tropical Cyclone Prediction
Authors: Jin Yi , Wang Shouping , Nachamkin Jason , Doyle James D. , Thompson Gregory , Grasso Lewis , Holt Teddy , Moskaitis Jon , Jin Hao , Hodur Richard M. , Zhao Qingyun , Liu Ming , DeMaria Mark
Published: August 2013

The impact of ice phase cloud microphysical processes on prediction of tropical cyclone environment is examined for two microphysical parameterizations using the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System–Tropical Cyclone (COAMPS-TC) model. An older version of microphysical parameterization is a relatively typical single-moment scheme with five hydrometeor species: cloud water and ice, rain, snow, and graupel. An alternative newer method uses a hybrid approach of double moment in cloud ice and rain and single moment in the other three species. Basin-scale synoptic flow simulations point to important differences between these two schemes. The upper-level cloud ice concentrations produced by the older scheme are up to two orders of magnitude greater than the newer scheme, primarily due to differing assumptions concerning the ice nucleation parameterization. Significant (1°–2°C) warm biases near the 300-hPa level in the control experiments are not present using the newer scheme. The warm bias in the control simulations is associated with the longwave radiative heating near the base of the cloud ice layer. The two schemes produced different track and intensity forecasts for 15 Atlantic storms. Rightward cross-track bias and positive intensity bias in the control forecasts are significantly reduced using the newer scheme. Synthetic satellite imagery of Hurricane Igor (2010) shows more realistic brightness temperatures from the simulations using the newer scheme, in which the inner core structure is clearly discernible. Applying the synthetic satellite imagery in both quantitative and qualitative analyses helped to pinpoint the issue of excessive upper-level cloud ice in the older scheme.
Optimization of the red mud–aluminum composite in the turning process by the Grey relational analysis with entropy
Authors: Rajesh S , Rajakarunakaran S , Sudhkarapandian R
Published: August 2013

This paper presents the findings of an experimental investigation on the effects of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and nose radius in the CNC turning operation performed on red mud-based aluminum metal matrix composites. The surface roughness, flank wear, and power consumption are considered as the output quality characteristics. The Taguchi-based Grey relational analysis with entropy method has been used to accomplish the objective of the experimental study. The entropy method is applied to evaluate the weighting values corresponding to various performance characteristics. The L9 orthogonal array design has been used for conducting the experiments. The Grey relational analysis with entropy reveals that the optimal combination of the machining parameters for the multi-performance characteristics of the red mud-based aluminum is the set of cutting speed of 275 m/min, feed 0.2 mm/rev, depth of cut 0.5 mm, and nose radius 0.4 mm. The optimal results were compared with the experimental results for verifying the approach, and it is observed that the surface roughness decreases from 2.56 to 2.27 µm, tool wear decreases from 0.3 to 0.28 mm, and power consumption decreases from 721 to 715 W.
Manufacturing process of dispersed intermetallic compounds Al alloy composites by using porous nickel
Authors: Choi YB , Matsugi K , Sasaki G
Published: August 2013

A new process is proposed to fabricate an intermetallic compound-reinforced aluminum alloy matrix composite using the reaction between porous nickel and molten aluminum alloy. The intermetallic compound-reinforced aluminum alloy composite was manufactured with the infiltration process method. Porous nickel reacted with the molten aluminum alloy at 973 K, and the intermetallic compound of Al3Ni was generated on the surface of the porous nickel. The generated intermetallic compound Al3Ni is delaminated due to different thermal expansion coefficient with nickel and moves in the direction of aluminum matrix. The effects of processing variables such as specific surface area of porous nickel, holding time after infiltrated molten aluminum alloy, and cooling rate on the formation and dispersion behavior of Al3Ni were investigated.
Spectrum of superficial nerve-related tumor and tumor-like lesions: MRI features
Authors: Wadhwa Vibhor , Lee Pearlene P , Strome Glenn M , Suh Kyung Jin , Carrino John A , Chhabra Avneesh
Published: August 2013

Superficial soft-tissue masses arising from skin appendages, metastasis, and inflammatory lesions have been widely reported. However, nerve-related superficial mass-like lesions other than peripheral nerve sheath tumors are less commonly described. High resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an excellent non-invasive tool for the evaluation of such lesions. In this article, the authors discuss the entire spectrum of these lesions and also outline a systemic diagnostic approach.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of diclofenac 4% spray gel in the treatment of acute uncomplicated ankle sprain
Authors: Predel Hans-Georg , Giannetti Bruno , Seigfried Bernd , Novellini Roberto , Menke Georg
Published: August 2013

Objective

A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group multicentre study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of diclofenac 4% spray gel for the treatment of acute, uncomplicated ankle sprain.

Methods

Outpatients with acute, uncomplicated, one-sided ankle sprain were randomly assigned to receive diclofenac 4% spray gel or placebo (vehicle) three times daily for 14 ± 1 days. The main efficacy endpoint was the intra-individual response to treatment (≥50% decrease in swelling of the injured ankle after a treatment period of ≤10 days).

Results

The response rate was significantly higher in the diclofenac group ( n = 118) than the placebo group ( n = 114) (91.5% vs. 82.5%). After 3–4 days’ treatment, diclofenac spray significantly reduced swelling, spontaneous pain, pain on active movement and tenderness compared with placebo. Diclofenac spray was well tolerated, with a low overall rate of adverse events.

Conclusions

Diclofenac 4% spray gel rapidly relieves pain and improves mobility in patients with acute, uncomplicated ankle sprain and is well tolerated. It may be a useful treatment option for other acute soft tissue injuries.
Physicochemical and in vitro biocompatibility evaluation of water-soluble CdSe/ZnS core/shell
Authors: Painuly Diksha , Bhatt Anugya , Krishnan Venkiteswaran Kalliyana
Published: August 2013

Group II–VI semiconductor quantum dots (Q-dots) have found various applications in biomedical field during last decade. In this study, we have synthesized CdSe Q-dots and CdSe/ZnS core/shell (CS) by wet chemical route and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. CS formation was confirmed by red shift as well as enhancement in the luminescence peak compared to bare Q-dots. Processing parameters such as core and sulfur concentrations were optimized at maximum luminescence efficiency during the shell preparation. Effects of dialysis, aging and cell culture medium on the properties of the Q-dots and CS were also studied by luminescence and DLS techniques. DLS data showed Q-dots and CS to be stable, and there was no effect on the integrity of the Q-dots and CS after various modifications. CS was found to be hemocompatible and cytocompatible for human umbilical vein endothelial cells even at a high concentration of 0.1 mg/ml up to 48 h indicating high potential for CS in various biomedical applications.
Board of Directors Governance and Pay
Authors: Graham Michael Dennis
Published: August 2013

Board governance and rewards program design needs to be an active, dynamic, adaptive and situational effort and should be considered within a strategic framework that includes the role of the board, industry phase and important influencers (government, public, competitors, etc.), company stage, vision, mission, values and beliefs, strategies and/or company performance. Not only does this expansive approach provide a more complete framework within which to understand and develop appropriate board governance and pay, but it sends the right message to shareholders and executives as well. While director compensation can be structured in many ways, simplicity and transparency should be the guiding principles. Each company should determine the optimal approach to the “money, mix, messages and management” of components. These must reflect the organization’s size, situation and the role and importance of each director to a company’s long-term success.