bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eruptive Keratoacanthoma en Plaque in an Immunosuppressed Patient
Authors: WASHINGTON CARL V. , MIKHAIL GEORGE R.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Immunosuppressive therapy predisposes to the development of a variety of neoplasms. A 63‐year‐old man developed multiple eruptive epithelial tumors 15 years after renal transplantation. The tumors included what had been diagnosed as squamous cell carcinomas, Bowen's disease, and solitary and eruptive keratoacan‐thomas. In addition, he developed a large plaque studded with small nodules that had the histologic features of keratoacanthoma. To our knowledge, this is the first example of acquired eruptive keratoacanthoma forming a large plaque.
The Measurement of the Volume of Leg Ulcers
Authors: COLE GARY W.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. A method designed to measure the volume of cutaneous ulcers is described that utilizes a silicon rubber dental impression material. This technique is compared to the more popularly used computerized image analysis method in the determination of the size of cutaneous ulcers.
Key Anatomic Structures of the Face and Neck for the Dermatologic Surgeon: Their Relationship in a Cadaver Dissection
Authors: PHILLIPS J. HUNTER , WALKER LEON B. , MILLIKAN LARRY E.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. A working knowledge of vital anatomic structures of the face and neck are imperative for the dermatologic surgeon. This article correlates those commonly encountered structures with a cadaver dissection as they relate to skin cancer excision, rhytidectomies, and liposuction.
Postfixation of Cryostat Sections Improves Tumor Definition in Mohs Surgery
Authors: RUSTAD O.J. , KAYE VALDA , CERIO RINO , ZACHARY CHRISTOPHER B.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Precise identification and localization of tumor is the key to success in Mohs micrographic surgery. In a pilot study, we demonstrated improvement in tumor definition and staining characteristics after formalin fixation of cryostat sections (postfixation) when compared with unfixed specimens. We further investigated the benefits of postfixation with a series of tissue fixatives and with varying fixation times. In all cases, postfixation was found to be beneficial. No improvement was noted by extending the postfixation time beyond I minute.
Treatment of Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma and Atypical Fibrous Xanthomas with Micrographic Surgery
Authors: BROWN MARC D. , SWANSON NEIL A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Fibrous tumors of the soft tissue are usually benign, but some fibrous neoplasms such as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX), and malignant fibrohistiocytoma (MFH) can be very destructive locally with a high recurrence rate after local excision. On occasion, they can metastasize. Previous reports have confirmed the high success rate of Mohs micrographic surgery for the treatment of DFSP, but data have been lacking on the potential benefit of this surgical approach for MFH and AFX tumors. Over the past 6 years, we have treated 17 patients with MFH (20 tumors) and 5 patients with AFX with Mohs micrographic surgery. A retrospective analysis of the surgical results is presented. To date (average 3‐year follow‐up), all patients contacted are tumor free with only one recurrence; no patient has developed metastatic disease. Our results to date are very encouraging; they lend support to Mohs micrographic surgery as a desired surgical approach for these diffiult‐to‐cure neoplasms.
Treatment of Multiple Apocrine Hidrocystomas with the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Laser
Authors: BICKLEY LYNN K. , GOLDBERG DAVID J. , IMAEDA SUGURU , Lambert W. CLARK , SCHWARTZ ROBERT A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The apocrine hidrocystoma tends to occur as a solitary facial cystic lesion. We report an unusual patient in whom there were multiple apocrine hidrocystomas scattered over the periorbital region and ears. Although solitary apocrine hidrocystomas are easily treated with excision, we had good results employing carbon dioxide laser vaporization in the treatment of numerous hidrocystomas.
A Synthetic Skin Substitute as a Temporary Dressing in Mohs Surgery
Authors: ROTH RUDOLF R. , WINTON GEORGE B.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Epigard (Synthes, Paoli, PA), a synthetic skin substitute, is useful in the temporary covering of surgical wounds. The dressing adheres to the wound bed, provides hemostasis, and aids neovascularization. When removed after 2–3 days, the surgeon has a wound ready to accept a graft.
Juncture interview: Gillian Tett
Authors: Tett Gillian
Published: June 2013

Award‐winning financial journalist Gillian Tett joins IPPR director and Juncture co‐editor Nick Pearce to discuss the crisis of faith at the root of the financial crash, the disaster of austerity, the great expectations of new Bank of England governor Mark Carney, and the state of economic thinking in post‐crash Britain.
How One Nation Labour can bridge the values divide
Authors: Pecorelli Nick
Published: June 2013

The best way of analysing contemporary politics is not class, gender or age, but values. To win elections, political parties need to address the real concerns of different values groups in society. As Nick Pecorelli argues, if One Nation Labour marries together the best of ‘New’ and ‘Blue’ it might find a winning recipe.
Analytic Model for the Diffusant Concentration in Ceramic Green Bodies During Diffusion‐Controlled Thermal Binder Removal
Authors: Lombardo Stephen J.
Published: June 2013

The diffusion of the decomposition product of binder degradation has been modeled using the diffusion equation when a source term is present. An analytic solution to the governing nonlinear, unsteady‐state partial differential equations has been obtained for a planar body with two simplifications. The first approximation utilizes the pseudo‐steady‐state approximation whereas the second approximates the diffusivity, as given by the free volume theory, in terms of a single temperature‐dependent parameter. The analytic solution, which was compared to numerical solutions to establish the range of model validity, accurately describes the temporal and spatial distribution of the binder decomposition product during most of the heating cycle, especially when the concentration in the green body is the highest. The functional dependence of concentration within the body is established in terms of model parameters including the body size, degree of nonlinearity of the diffusivity, and the ratio of reaction rate to diffusivity.
Geriatric Patient Care by U.S. Pharmacists in Healthcare Teams: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses
Authors: Lee Jeannie K. , Slack Marion K. , Martin Jennifer , Ehrman Clara , Chisholm‐Burns Marie
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analyses to examine the effects of pharmacists' care on geriatric patient‐oriented health outcomes in the United States (U.S.).

Design

Studies examining U.S. pharmacists' patient care services from inception of the databases through July 2012 were searched. The databases searched include PubMed/MEDLINE, Ovid/MEDLINE, ABI/INFORM, Health Business Fulltext Elite, Academic Search Complete, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database, and Clinical Trials.gov. Studies reporting pharmacists' intervention for geriatric patients, comparison groups, and patient‐oriented outcomes were assessed. Dual review for inclusion and data extraction were performed.

Setting

University of Arizona College of Pharmacy.

Measurements

Study and participant characteristics, pharmacist intervention, and outcomes with data for meta‐analyses were collected. A forest plot was constructed to obtain a pooled standardized mean difference using a random effects model.

Results

One hundred fifty‐two articles were reviewed, with 20 resulting studies included in the final meta‐analyses. Study sample size ranged from 36 to 4,218, with mean age of subjects being 65 and older. The studies were most frequently conducted in ambulatory care clinics, followed by inpatient settings; the majority focused on multiple diseases and conditions. Pharmacist activities varied widely, with technical interventions used most often. Favorable results were found in all outcome categories, and meta‐analyses conducted for therapeutic, safety, hospitalization, and adherence were significant (P < .001), favoring pharmacist care over comparison. Some identifiable variability existed between included studies.

Conclusion

Pharmacist intervention has favorable effects on therapeutic, safety, hospitalization, and adherence outcomes in older adults. Pharmacists should be involved in team‐based care of older adults.
A novel anticonvulsant modulates voltage‐gated sodium channel inactivation and prevents kindling‐induced seizures
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad N. , Gavrilovici Cezar , Ali Shah Syed U. , Shaheen Farzana , Choudhary Muhammad I. , Rahman Atta‐ur , Fahnestock Margaret , Simjee Shabana U. , Poulter Michael O.
Published: June 2013

Here, we explore the mechanism of action of isoxylitone (ISOX), a molecule discovered in the plant Delphinium denudatum, which has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties. Patch‐clamp electrophysiology assayed the activity of ISOX on voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs) in both cultured neurons and brain slices isolated from controls and rats with experimental epilepsy (kindling model). Quantitative transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) (QPCR) assessed brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mRNA expression in kindled rats, and kindled rats treated with ISOX. ISOX suppressed sodium current (INa) showing an IC50 value of 185 nM in cultured neurons. ISOX significantly slowed the recovery from inactivation (ISOX τ = 18.7 ms; Control τ = 9.4 ms; p < 0.001). ISOX also enhanced the development of inactivation by shifting the Boltzmann curve to more hyperpolarized potentials by −11.2 mV (p < 0.05). In naive and electrically kindled cortical neurons, the IC50 for sodium current block was identical to that found in cultured neurons. ISOX prevented kindled stage 5 seizures and decreased the enhanced BDNF mRNA expression that is normally associated with kindling (p < 0.05). Overall, our data show that ISOX is a potent inhibitor of VGSCs that stabilizes steady‐state inactivation while slowing recovery and enhancing inactivation development. Like many other sodium channel blocker anti‐epileptic drugs, the suppression of BDNF mRNA expression that usually occurs with kindling is likely a secondary outcome that nevertheless would suppress epileptogenesis. These data show a new class of anti‐seizure compound that inhibits sodium channel function and prevents the development of epileptic seizures.

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Isoxylitones, isolated from Delphinium denudatum root prevent seizure induction. Activity was tested on voltage‐gated sodium channels (VGSCs) in both cultured neurons and brain slices isolated from controls and rats with experimental epilepsy (kindling model). Isoxylitones enhanced sodium channel inactivation with an IC50 of about 200 nM. Our findings suggest isoxylitones as a potential novel anticonvulsant agent.
Radiolabeling and in vitro /in vivo evaluation of N‐(1‐adamantyl)‐8‐methoxy‐4‐oxo‐1‐phenyl‐1,4‐dihydroquinoline‐3‐carboxamide as a PET probe for imaging cannabinoid type 2 receptor
Authors: Mu Linjing , Bieri Daniel , Slavik Roger , Drandarov Konstantin , Müller Adrienne , Čermak Stjepko , Weber Markus , Schibli Roger , Krämer Stefanie D. , Ametamey Simon M.
Published: June 2013

The cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) receptor plays an important role in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease and is therefore a very promising target for therapeutic approaches as well as for imaging. Based on the literature, we identified one 4‐oxoquinoline derivative (designated KD2) as the lead structure. It was synthesized, radiolabeled and evaluated as a potential imaging tracer for CB2. [11C]KD2 was obtained in 99% radiochemical purity. Moderate blood–brain barrier (BBB) passage was predicted for KD2 from an in vitro transport assay with P‐glycoprotein‐transfected Madin Darby canine kidney cells. No efflux of KD2 by P‐glycoprotein was detected. In vitro autoradiography of rat and mouse spleen slices demonstrated that [11C]KD2 exhibits high specific binding towards CB2. High spleen uptake of [11C]KD2 was observed in dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) studies with Wistar rats and its specificity was confirmed by displacement study with a selective CB2 agonist, GW405833. A pilot autoradiography study with post‐mortem spinal cord slices from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients with [11C]KD2 suggested the presence of CB2 receptors under disease conditions. Specificity of [11C]KD2 binding could also be demonstrated on these human tissues. In conclusion, [11C]KD2 shows good in vitro and in vivo properties as a potential PET tracer for CB2.

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The cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2) plays an important role in neuroinflammatory and neuro–degenerative diseases. [11C]KD2, a new CB2 radioligand, exhibits selectivity towards CB2 receptor in vitro and in vivo in rat. A pilot autoradiography study with spinal cord slices from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with [11C]KD2 suggested the presence of CB2 under disease conditions (Figure). Selective CB2 agonist, GW405833.
Nesfatin‐1 activates cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus and elicits bradycardia in conscious rats
Authors: Brailoiu G. Cristina , Deliu Elena , Tica Andrei A. , Rabinowitz Joseph E. , Tilley Douglas G. , Benamar Khalid , Koch Walter J. , Brailoiu Eugen
Published: June 2013

Nesfatin‐1, a peptide whose receptor is yet to be identified, has been involved in the modulation of feeding, stress, and metabolic responses. More recently, increasing evidence supports a modulatory role for nesfatin‐1 in autonomic and cardiovascular activity. This study was undertaken to test if the expression of nesfatin‐1 in the nucleus ambiguus, a key site for parasympathetic cardiac control, may be correlated with a functional role. As we have previously demonstrated that nesfatin‐1 elicits Ca2+ signaling in hypothalamic neurons, we first assessed the effect of this peptide on cytosolic Ca2+ in cardiac pre‐ganglionic neurons of nucleus ambiguus. We provide evidence that nesfatin‐1 increases cytosolic Ca2+ concentration via a Gi/o‐coupled mechanism. The nesfatin‐1‐induced Ca2+ rise is critically dependent on Ca2+ influx via P/Q‐type voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels. Repeated administration of nesfatin‐1 leads to tachyphylaxis. Furthermore, nesfatin‐1 produces a dose‐dependent depolarization of cardiac vagal neurons via a Gi/o‐coupled mechanism. In vivo studies, using telemetric and tail‐cuff monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure, indicate that microinjection of nesfatin‐1 into the nucleus ambiguus produces bradycardia not accompanied by a change in blood pressure in conscious rats. Taken together, our results identify for the first time that nesfatin‐1 decreases heart rate by activating cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus.

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Our results indicate that nesfatin‐1, one of the most potent feeding peptides, increases cytosolic Ca2+ by promoting Ca2+ influx via P/Q channels and depolarizes nucleus ambiguus neurons; both effects are Gi/o‐mediated. In vivo studies indicate that microinjection of nesfatin‐1 into nucleus ambiguus produces bradycardia in conscious rats. This is the first report that nesfatin‐1 increases the parasympathetic cardiac tone.
Heteroglossia as a resource for reflexive participation in a community of Christian snowboarders in Finland
Authors: Peuronen Saija
Published: June 2013

This paper addresses the ways in which linguistic heteroglossia is mobilized to construct participation in a youth cultural community of practice. The analysis focuses on spoken interaction among Christian snowboarders in Finland, and specifically on how the community members create social meanings by using their shared linguistic resources (e.g. religious register or snowboarding terminology). These socially indexical resources gain new meanings when the snowboarders engage in debates concerning gender, expertise and literal versus non‐literal interpretations of the Bible. During specific interactive events, they reflect on their responses to different Biblical discourses, thus aiming to reconcile traditional church teachings with late‐modern lifestyles. In the process, they construct themselves as authentic Christian members of the community. Humor and playfulness are often important means for the snowboarders to negotiate the potential contradictions between traditional religious voices and their lived social reality. Hence, ultimately, heteroglossia and indexicality enable the Christian snowboarders to establish and transform meanings, identities and cultural contexts.
Genetic Structure and Aggressiveness of Rhizoctonia solani AG1‐IA, the Cause of Sheath Blight of Rice in Southern China
Authors: Wang Ling , Liu Lian Meng , Wang Zhi Gang , Huang Shi Wen
Published: June 2013

One hundred and eighty isolates of Rhizoctonia solani AG1‐IA, the causal agent of rice sheath blight, were obtained from six locations in southern China. The genetic structure of R. solani isolates was investigated using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers, and a considerable genetic variation among R. solani isolates was observed. Most of the genetic diversity was distributed within populations, rather than among them. The distribution pattern of the genetic variation of R. solani appears to be the result of high gene flow (Nm) and low‐genetic differentiation among populations. The aggressiveness of R. solani was visually assessed by rice seedlings of five different cultivars in the glasshouse. All isolates tested were found to induce significantly different levels of disease severity, reflecting considerable variation in aggressiveness. The isolates were divided into highly virulent, moderately virulent and weakly virulent groups, and the moderately virulent isolates were dominant in R. solani population. No significant correlation was observed among the genetic similarity, pathogenic aggressiveness and geographical origins of the isolates. Information obtained from this study may be useful for breeding for improved resistance to sheath blight.
A Protoplast Transformation System for Gene Deletion and Complementation in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Ge Chang‐Yan , Duan Ya‐Bing , Zhou Ming‐Guo , Chen Chang‐Jun
Published: June 2013

Protoplast transformation is an important technique for establishing a mutation library and determining gene function for Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and other plant pathogenic fungi. In this study, we determined the effect of various conditions on preparation of protoplasts for transformation. These conditions included the age of the culture providing the hyphae to be digested; enzyme composition, buffer solution and concentration; and digestion time and temperature. The optimum conditions for preparing protoplasts were as follows: 10 ml of enzyme solution (1.5% lysing enzyme in 0.8 m mannitol and citric acid‐sodium citrate buffer) reacting with 0.1 g of hyphae (cultured for 36 h) at 30°C for 2.5 h. The transformation efficiency was 60–85 transformants per microgram of DNA. In addition, an expression vector for gene complementation was constructed, and an additional dominant selectable marker (neomycin) was demonstrated. To verify the reliability of the expression vector, we constructed and transformed the complementation vector of Shk1 for gene complementation based on the Shk1 deletion mutant △Shk1. The results showed that the expression level and biological phenotypes of Shk1 were restored in the complementary strain △Shk1+Shk1. The techniques and procedures described will improve our ability to study gene function in S. sclerotiorum and are likely applicable to other plant pathogens.
Forage and sugar in dairy calves' starter diet and their interaction on performance, weaning age and rumen fermentation
Authors: Beiranvand H. , Ghorbani G. R. , Khorvash M. , Kazemi‐Bonchenari M.
Published: June 2013

The effects of sugar and forage inclusion in calves' starter and their interaction on animal performance and rumen fermentation parameters were investigated. Twenty‐eight neonatal Holstein male calves 3 days of age with average body weights of 42 ± 4 kg were allocated to four different treatments. All calves were fed a similar basal diet consisting of milk and concentrate. The experimental treatments were: (i) basal diet with no supplementation (Control, hereafter designated by C), (ii) basal diet plus 5% granular sugar cane (Sugar, designated by S), (iii) basal diet plus 5% forage (Forage, designated by F) and (iv) basal diet plus 5% forage with 5% granular sugar cane (F × S). Supplement ingredients were used on a dry matter (DM) basis. Rumen fluid parameters were measured twice on days 35 and 70 of the study period. The calves were weaned when they could consume 1 kg of starter for three consecutive days. The results show that starter intake was not affected by treatment; however, the lowest ADG was observed with calves in the sugar treatment. Weaning age was affected by treatments, and forage showed to reduce milk consumption period down to its shortest. Forage–sugar interaction was found to have no effects on animal performance. The structural body indices as well as the health status of the calves were similar in different treatments. Rumen pH did not differ among the treatment groups. Among the rumen parameters, total VFA concentration and molar proportions of butyrate and propionate did not exhibit any significant differences among the treatments. However, ruminal acetate concentration decreased in calves that fed sugar cane during the early weeks of the study period. Comparison of forage and sugar included in the starter diets revealed that forage reduced weaning age, while sugar cane had a negative effect on calves' performance.
Extensive lysine acetylation occurs in evolutionarily conserved metabolic pathways and parasite‐specific functions during Plasmodium falciparum intraerythrocytic development
Authors: Miao Jun , Lawrence Matthew , Jeffers Victoria , Zhao Fangqing , Parker Daniel , Ge Ying , Sullivan William J. , Cui Liwang
Published: June 2013

Lysine acetylation has emerged as a major post‐translational modification involved in diverse cellular functions. Using a combination of immunoisolation and liquid chromatography coupled to accurate mass spectrometry, we determined the first acetylome of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum during its active proliferation in erythrocytes with 421 acetylation sites identified in 230 proteins. Lysine‐acetylated proteins are distributed in the nucleus, cytoplasm, mitochondrion and apicoplast. Whereas occurrence of lysine acetylation in a similarly wide range of cellular functions suggests conservation of lysine acetylation through evolution, the Plasmodium acetylome also revealed significant divergence from those of other eukaryotes and even the closely related parasite Toxoplasma. This divergence is reflected in the acetylation of a large number of Plasmodium‐specific proteins and different acetylation sites in evolutionarily conserved acetylated proteins. A prominent example is the abundant acetylation of proteins in the glycolysis pathway but relatively deficient acetylation of enzymes in the citrate cycle. Using specific transgenic lines and inhibitors, we determined that the acetyltransferase PfMYST and lysine deacetylases play important roles in regulating the dynamics of cytoplasmic protein acetylation. The Plasmodium acetylome provides an exciting start point for further exploration of functions of acetylation in the biology of malaria parasites.
Prevalence of Phantom Breast Pain and Sensation Among Postmastectomy Patients Suffering from Breast Cancer: A Prospective Study
Authors: Ahmed Arif , Bhatnagar Sushma , Rana Shiv Pratap Singh , Ahmad Syed Mehmood , Joshi Saurabh , Mishra Seema
Published: June 2013

Background

With the advent of newer treatment modalities, survival rate among breast cancer patients has improved substantially over the last few years. Hence, the concern has also shifted to the impact of treatment, side effects, and the morbidities arising from disease management. Among them is the development of phantom breast pain (PBP) and sensation (PBS) after mastectomy.

Methods

After obtaining ethical committee approval, 80 patients suffering from carcinoma breast undergoing modified radical mastectomy were enrolled into the study. They were assessed preoperatively for presence of breast pain, disease, and surgical concerns and followed up postoperatively at 6 weeks, 6 and 12 months, respectively, for development of PBP and PBS, and other associated effects.

Results

The prevalence of PBP and PBS was 5.4%, 9.5% at 6 weeks, 8.2%, 6.8% at 6 months, and 13.6% and 17% at 12 months, respectively. There was high prevalence of depression, sleep disturbance, and anxiolytic intake among the patients with PBP and PBS (P value < 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of PBP and PBS was very low and of minor clinical significance. There was higher prevalence of depression, sleep disturbances, and anxiolytic intake among the patients with PBP and PBS, but it did not result in any significant impact on the patients daily activities.
Geometric Effect on the Photocrosslinking Reaction between 3‐Cyanovinylcarbazole Nucleoside and Pyrimidine Base in DNA/RNA Heteroduplex
Authors: Fujimoto Kenzo , Kishi Satomi , Sakamoto Takashi
Published: June 2013

To clarify the geometric effect of the ultra‐fast photocrosslinking reaction of photoreactive oligodeoxyribonucleotide containing 3‐cyanovinylcarbazole nucleoside (CNVK) on uridine in complementary RNA strands, pseudouridine (Ψ), which is an isomer of uridine with a C5–C1′ glycosidic bond, was introduced to the photocrosslink site of CNVK in complementary RNA instead of U. The photoreactivity of CNVK toward Ψ was two‐fold lower than that of U, suggesting that the geometry between the vinyl moiety on CNVK and the reactive double bond in the pyrimidine base has a large affect on the photoreactivity of CNVK. Contrary to the case of U, the reactivity of the CNVK toward Ψ was decreased by the decrease of reaction temperature below the Tm of heteroduplex, suggesting that the flexible structure of the duplex is advantageous for the photocrosslinking reaction with Ψ, whose reactive double bond possesses unfavorable geometry for the photocrosslinking reaction with CNVK. These basic findings might contribute to the development of a geometry selective photocrosslinking reaction. This is the first example of a sequence specific photocrosslinking reaction toward Ψ, which is the most abundant posttranscriptionally modified nucleoside.
A co‐infection with two gastrointestinal nematodes alters host immune responses and only partially parasite dynamics
Authors: Murphy L. , Pathak A. K. , Cattadori I. M.
Published: June 2013

Given their global distribution and abilities to persist in the host, helminths can play a crucial role in affecting risk of infections by increasing individual variation in infection. Helminth co‐infections are of particular interest because by altering host immune responses, they can modify host susceptibility and thus intensity and transmission of other parasites/pathogens. The dynamics of co‐infection were examined using two helminths of the European rabbit. Individuals were simultaneously challenged with a primary dose of both parasites, and changes in intensity were examined in relation to local and systemic immune responses. Both helminths persisted in co‐infected rabbits; however, contrasting dynamics and immune responses were observed. Graphidium strigosum intensity was high throughout the co‐infection, while Trichostrongylus retortaeformis intensity decreased but was not completely cleared. A Th2 response was observed against G. strigosum, while a mixed Th1/Th2 profile was found to T. retortaeformis. A comparison with our previous work on single infections showed that G. strigosum intensity was higher in co‐infected than single infected hosts, while T. retortaeformis showed no significant changes. Differences were also observed in the cytokine profiles, blood cell concentrations and antibody trends. Overall, host variability during helminth co‐infections can be generated by significant differences in immune responses and/or parasite dynamics.
Imaging African trypanosomes
Authors: MacLean L. , Myburgh E. , Rodgers J. , Price H. P.
Published: June 2013

Trypanosoma brucei are extracellular kinetoplastid parasites transmitted by the blood‐sucking tsetse fly. They are responsible for the fatal disease human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness. In late‐stage infection, trypanosomes cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and invade the central nervous system (CNS) invariably leading to coma and death if untreated. There is no available vaccine and current late‐stage HAT chemotherapy consists of either melarsoprol, which is highly toxic causing up to 8% of deaths, or nifurtimox–eflornithine combination therapy (NECT), which is costly and difficult to administer. There is therefore an urgent need to identify new late‐stage HAT drug candidates. Here, we review how current imaging tools, ranging from fluorescent confocal microscopy of live immobilized cells in culture to whole‐animal imaging, are providing insight into T. brucei biology, parasite‐host interplay, trypanosome CNS invasion and disease progression. We also consider how imaging tools can be used for candidate drug screening purposes that could lead to new chemotherapies.
Cultured Mast Cells from Patients with Asthma and Controls Respond with Similar Sensitivity to Recombinant Der P2‐Induced, IgE‐Mediated Activation
Authors: Krohn I. K. , Sverrild A. , Lund G. , Dahl R. , Erjefält J. S. , Backer V. , Hoffmann H. J.
Published: June 2013

The function of cultured mast cells may depend on genetic or environmental influence on the stem cell donor. This study investigates whether asthma or atopy in the donor influenced the growth and sensitivity of mast cells cultured from patients with asthma and healthy controls under identical conditions. Mast cells were cultured from peripheral blood from twelve patients with an objectively confirmed asthma diagnosis and eight healthy subjects. During the last 2 weeks of culture, mast cells were incubated with IL‐4 and 80 kU/l recombinant human IgE containing two clones (7% + 7%) specific for mite allergen Der p2. The sensitivity of IgE‐mediated activation of mast cells was investigated as FcεRI‐mediated upregulation of CD63. Ten subjects were atopic, defined as a positive skin prick test (>3 mm) to at least one of ten common allergens. After activation with recombinant Der p2, the maximum CD63 median fluorescence intensity was 20 456 ± 1640 (SE) for patients with asthma and 22 275 ± 1971 (SE) for controls (ns). The fraction of CD63 positive cells was 54.4% in patients with asthma and 48.4% in controls (ns). The allergen concentration inducing 50% of the maximal CD63 response was similar in patients with asthma [−0.4795 log ng/ml ± 0.092 (SE)] and controls (−0.6351 log ng/ml ± 0.083, ns) and in atopic and non‐atopic subjects. When cultured, sensitized and activated under identical conditions, mast cells from allergic asthmatics and healthy controls respond similar. Activation of cultured mast cells appears to depend on culture conditions (IL‐4, IgE) rather than on donor status as atopy and asthma.
Will the Renminbi Emerge as an International Reserve Currency?
Authors: Lee Jong‐Wha
Published: June 2013

The global reserve system can be strengthened by increasing the role of alternative currencies. A gradual evolution to a multicurrency system reduces pressure on a single reserve currency issuer from an ever‐growing balance‐of‐payments deficit. It also allows countries to better diversify their foreign exchange holdings. Given the continuing strong economic growth in the China and its growing influence on the world economy, the renminbi will likely emerge as a new international currency. However, this is contingent on the China accepting a more convertible capital account and developing an efficient financial system. Internationalising the renminbi will likely be a gradual and drawn‐out process. Simulations show that, with greater convertibility, the renminbi could gradually become an international currency within Asia and beyond – sharing from 3 to 12 per cent of international reserves by 2035.
The Evolution of Price Dispersion in China's Passenger Car Markets
Authors: Yu Linhui , Lu Jiangyong , Luo Pinliang
Published: June 2013

This research identified the rising price dispersion of passenger cars in Chinese cities during the period from 2004 to 2006. The sources of the price differentials were then further explored. The theoretical and empirical analyses suggest that the income effect (as reflected by income differentials across Chinese cities) and the competition effect (as reflected by car supply differentials across Chinese cities) largely account for regional automobile price differentials across China.
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC FEATURES OF BASIHYOID ECTOPIC THYROID CARCINOMA IN DOGS
Authors: Rossi F , Caleri E , Bacci B , Drees R , Groth A , Hammond G , Vignoli M , Schwarz T
Published: June 2013

Eight dogs with a firm, nonpainful swelling in the ventral laryngeal region and with a final diagnosis of ectopic thyroid carcinoma were investigated by Computed Tomography (CT) at six different institutions. Computed Tomography findings were reviewed, focusing on lesion volume, shape, margins, relationship with surrounding structures and adjacent vessels, attenuation characteristics, and presence of metastases. Ectopic thyroid carcinomas were seen as oval‐to‐bilobed masses centered on the basihyoid bone with associated bone lysis, highly vascularized capsules with central poorly contrast enhancing areas. In all cases there was laryngeal wall infiltration, in two dogs invasion of the laryngeal lumen and in one case invasion of the ventral muscular and subcutaneous plane. Metastases were found in retropharyngeal lymph nodes (three cases) and in the lung (two cases). Ectopic thyroid carcinoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis when a mass in the basihyoid region is present. Described CT features may be typical for ectopic thyroid neoplasia and could be used to help decide the therapeutic plan.
The Effect of Acoustic Excitation on Boundary Layer Separation of a Highly Loaded LPT Blade
Authors: Bernardini Chiara , Benton Stuart I. , Bons Jeffrey P.
Published: June 2013

An experimental investigation of the effect of acoustic excitation on the boundary layer development of a highly loaded low-pressure turbine blade at low-Reynolds number is investigated. The aim of this work is to study the effect of excitation at select frequencies on separation which could give indications about active flow control exploitation. The front-loaded L2F blade is tested in a low-speed linear cascade. The uncontrolled flow presents a separation bubble on the suction surface at Reynolds numbers below 40,000. For these conditions, the instability of the shear layer is documented using hot-wire anemometry. A loudspeaker upstream of the cascade is directed towards the passage inlet section. A parametric study on the effect of amplitude and frequency is carried out. The effect of the excitation frequency is observed to delay separation for a range of frequencies. However, the control authority of sound is found to be most effective at the fundamental frequency of the shear layer. The amplitude of perturbation is significant in the outcome of control until a threshold value is reached. PIV measurements allow a deeper understanding of the mechanisms leading to the reduction of separation. Data has been acquired with a low inlet turbulence level (<1%) in order to provide a cleaner environment which magnifies the effects of the excitation frequency, and with an increased turbulence intensity level of 3% which is representative of more typical engine values. Integrated wake loss values are also presented to evaluate the effect on blade performance.
Microstructured Surfaces for Single-Phase Jet Impingement Heat Transfer Enhancement
Authors: Moreno Gilberto , Narumanchi Sreekant , Venson Travis , Bennion Kevin
Published: June 2013

An experimental investigation was conducted to examine the use of microstructured surfaces to enhance jet impingement heat transfer. Three microstructured surfaces were evaluated: a microfinned surface, a microporous coating, and a spray pyrolysis coating. The performance of these surface coatings/structures was compared to the performance of simple surface roughening techniques and millimeter-scale finned surfaces. Experiments were conducted using water in both the free- and submerged-jet configurations at Reynolds numbers ranging from 3300 to 18,700. At higher Reynolds numbers, the microstructured surfaces were found to increase Nusselt numbers by 130% and 100% in the free- and submerged-jet configurations, respectively. Potential enhancement mechanisms due to the microstructured surfaces are discussed for each configuration. Finally, an analysis was conducted to assess the impacts of cooling a power electronic module via a jet impingement scheme utilizing microfinned surfaces.
A Highly Efficient Small-Displacement Marine Two-Stroke H2DI Engine With Low Emissions
Authors: Oh David , Plante Jean-Sébastien
Published: June 2013

A hydrogen-fueled two-stroke prototype demonstrator based on a 9.9 hp (7.4 kW) production gasoline marine outboard engine is presented, which, while matching the original engine's rated power output on hydrogen, achieves a best-point gross indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) of 42.4% at the ICOMIA mode 4 operating point, corresponding to 80% and 71.6% of the rated engine speed and torque, respectively. The brake thermal efficiency (BTE) at the rated power is 32.3%. Preliminary exhaust gas measurements suggest that the engine could also meet the most stringent CARB 5-Star marine spark-ignition emission standards limiting HC + NOx emissions to 2.5 g/kWh without any after-treatment. These are realized in a cost-effective concept around a proven two-stroke base engine and a low-pressure direct-injected gaseous hydrogen (LPDI GH2) system, which employs no additional fuel pump and is uniquely adapted from volume production components. Later fuel injection is found to improve thermal efficiency at the expense of increased NOx emissions and, at the extreme, increased cyclic variation. These observations are hypothesized and supported by phenomenological inferences of the observed trends of combustion duration, NOx concentration, and indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) variance to be due to increasing charge stratification with the later timings. This work outlines the pathway—including investigations of several fuel delivery strategies with limited success—leading to the current status, including design, modeling with GT-POWER, delivery of lube oil, lubrication issues using hydrogen, and calibration sweeps. The experimental results comprising steady-state dynamometer performance, cylinder pressure traces, NOx emission measurements, along with heat release analyses, support the reported numbers and the key finding that late fuel injection timing and charge stratification drive the high efficiencies and the NOx trade-off; this is discussed and forms the basis for future work.
Evaporative Cooling of Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Chaker Mustapha , Meher-Homji Cyrus B.
Published: June 2013

There are numerous gas turbine applications in power generation and mechanical drive service where power drop during the periods of high ambient temperature has a very detrimental effect on the production of power or process throughput. Several geographical locations experience very high temperatures with low coincident relative humidities. In such cases media evaporative cooling can be effectively applied as a low cost power augmentation technique. Several misconceptions exist regarding their applicability to evaporative cooling, the most prevalent being that they can only be applied in extremely dry regions. This paper provides a detailed treatment of media evaporative cooling, discussing aspects that would be of value to an end user, including selection of climatic design points, constructional features of evaporative coolers, thermodynamic aspects of its effect on gas turbines, and approaches to improve reliability. It is hoped that this paper will be of value to plant designers, engineering companies, and operating companies that are considering the use of media evaporative cooling.
Dielectric Elastomer Jet Valve for Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Compatible Robotics
Authors: Proulx Sylvain , Lucking Bigué Jean-Philippe , Chouinard Patrick , Miron Geneviève , Plante Jean-Sébastien
Published: June 2013

This paper presents the design and experimental characterization of a binary jet valve, specifically developed to control an all-polymer needle manipulator during intramagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prostate interventions (biopsies and brachytherapies). The key feature of the MRI-compatible valve is its compact dual-stage configuration. The first stage is composed of a low-friction jet nozzle, driven by a small rotary dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). The second stage provides sufficient air flow and stability for the binary robotic application through an independent air supply, activated by a bistable spool. A hyperelastic stress-strain model is used to optimize the geometrical dimensions of the DEA jet assembly. Fully functional valve prototypes, made with 3M's VHB 4905 films, are monitored with a high-speed camera in order to quantify the system's shifting dynamics. The impact of nozzle clearance, dielectric elastomer film viscoelasticity, mechanical friction, and actuator torque generation on overall dynamic behavior of two different valve setups is discussed. Results show an overall shifting time of 200–300 ms when the friction of the nozzle and DEA actuation stretches are minimized. Low shifting time combined with compactness, simplicity, and low cost suggest that the low friction DEA-driven jet valves have great potential for switching a large number of pneumatic circuits in an MRI environment as well as in traditional pneumatic applications.
Modeling and Validation of a Split Cycle Clean Combustion Diesel Engine Concept
Authors: Sud Keshav , Cetinkunt Sabri , Fiveland Scott B.
Published: June 2013

This paper is a part of the research happening at the University of Illinois at Chicago together with Caterpillar Inc. for the development and validation of a split cycle clean combustion engine (SCCCE) operating on diesel fuel. A two-cylinder variant of the SCCCE is modeled using Caterpillar's one-dimensional modeling software Dynasty, following the geometric and boundary specifications given by the University of Pisa in their paper by Musu et al. (2010, “Clean Diesel Combustion by Means of the HCPC Concept,” SAE Paper No. 2010-01-1256). The results are compared to validate our modeling methodology. The split cycle clean combustion (SCCC) concept may significantly reduce gaseous and particulate emissions while maintaining high engine efficiency compared to the current state of the art diesel engine. Some manufacturers have been prototyping gasoline engines based on the SCCC concept, but there are no diesel fuel powered SCCC engine prototypes existing in the market. This study will be a significant contribution in the performance evaluation of SCCC diesel engines at high load and part load conditions. A one-dimensional modeling technique was chosen for this study due to the need of a fast running model that could be improved using design of experiments (DOE) analysis. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling produces more accurate results but limits one's ability to model a large number of configurations due to its large computational overhead that slows down the overall simulation process, thus making CFD models not feasible for this DOE. In order to accurately model an SCCC engine, we first validated our modeling methodology by reproducing results of the CFD based model presented by University of Pisa in Musu et al. (2010, “Clean Diesel Combustion by Means of the HCPC Concept,” SAE Paper No. 2010-01-1256). A satisfactory comparison of results confirmed our modeling approach and enabled us to integrate more complex models that will be discussed in future publications.
Phase Change and Choked Flow Effects on Rotordynamic Coefficients of Cryogenic Annular Seals
Authors: Hassini Mohamed Amine , Arghir Mihai
Published: June 2013

The present work deals with the numerical analysis of phase change effects and choked flow on the rotordynamic coefficients of cryogenic annular seals. The analysis is based on the “bulk flow” equations, with the energy equation written for the total enthalpy, and uses an estimation of the speed of sound that is valid for single- or two-phase flow as well. The numerical treatment of choked flow conditions is validated by comparisons with the experimental data of Hendricks (1987, “Straight Cylindrical Seal for High-Performance Turbomachines,” NASA Technical Paper No. 1850) obtained for gaseous nitrogen. The static characteristics and the dynamic coefficients of an annular seal working with liquid or gaseous oxygen are then investigated numerically. The same seal was used in previous analyses performed by Hughes et al. (1978, “Phase Change in Liquid Face Seals,” ASME J. Lubr. Technol., 100, pp. 74–80), Beatty and Hughes (1987, “Turbulent Two-Phase Flow in Annular Seals,” ASLE Trans., 30(1), pp. 11–18), and Arauz and San Andrés (1998, “Analysis of Two Phase Flow in Cryogenic Damper Seals. Part I: Theoretical Model,” ASME J. Tribol., 120, pp. 221–227 and 1998, “Analysis of Two Phase Flow in Cryogenic Damper Seals. Part 2: Model Validation and Predictions,” ASME J. Tribol., 120, pp. 228–233). The flow in the seal is unchoked, and rotordynamic coefficients show variations, with the excitation frequency depending if the flow is all liquid, all gas, or a liquid-gas mixture. Finally, the pressure ratio and length of the previous seal are changed in order to promote flow choking in the exit section. The rotordynamic coefficients calculated in this case show a dependence on the excitation frequency that differ from the unchoked seal.
Effect
of Nonideal Solution Behavior on Desalination of a Sodium Chloride Solution and Comparison to
Seawater
Authors: Mistry Karan
H. , Lienhard John
H.
Published: June 2013

Proper evaluation of the Gibbs free energy and other properties of seawater and other aqueous solutions is essential in the analysis of desalination systems. Standard seawater has been studied extensively and property data are readily accessible. However, many aqueous solutions requiring desalination have significantly different compositions from seawater and seawater data are generally not accurate for these solutions. Experimental data for a given aqueous solution may be unavailable under the conditions of interest. Therefore, there is a need to model relevant physical properties from chemical thermodynamic principles. In particular, for solutions that are not ideal, the activity and fugacity coefficients must be considered. In this paper, the effect of nonidealities in sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions is considered through a parametric study of the least work of separation for a desalination system. This study is used to determine the conditions under which the ideal solution approximation is valid and also to determine when an NaCl solution is a good approximation to standard seawater. It is found that the ideal solution approximation is reasonable within ranges of salinities and recovery ratios typical of those found in the seawater desalination industry because many of the nonidealities cancel out, but not because the solution behaves ideally. Additionally, it is found that NaCl solutions closely approximate natural seawater only at salinities typically found in seawater and not for salinities found in typical brackish waters.