bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active Aging for Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease: Definitions, Literature Review, and Models
Authors: Fereshtehnejad Seyed-Mohammad , Lökk Johan
Published: August 2014

Active aging has been emerged to optimize different aspects of health opportunities during the aging process in order to enhance quality of life. Yet, most of the efforts are on normal aging and less attention has been paid for the elderly suffering from a chronic illness such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). The aim of this review was to investigate how the concept of “active aging” fit for the elderly with PD and to propose a new model for them using the recent improvements in caring models and management approaches. For this purpose, biomedical databases have been assessed using relevant keywords to find out appropriate articles. Movement problems of PD affect physical activity, psychiatric symptoms lessen social communication, and cognitive impairment could worsen mental well-being in elderly with PD, all of which could lead to earlier retirement and poorer quality of life compared with healthy elderly. Based on the multisystematic nature of PD, a new “Active Aging Model for Parkinson’s Disease” is proposed consisting of self-care, multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary care, palliative care, patient-centered care, and personalized care. These strategies could potentially help the individuals with PD to have a better management approach for their condition towards the concept of active aging.
Biological Characteristics of Captive Chinese Wuzhishan Minipigs (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Min Fangui , Pan Jinchun , Wang Xilong , Chen Rui’ai , Wang Fengguo , Luo Shuming , Ye Jiancong
Published: August 2014

In order to meet the demands of experimental minipigs for biomedical researches, we have aimed at cultivating grazing Chinese Wuzhishan (WZS) minipigs and trying to make them useful and affordable since the 1990s. After more than ten years of captive cultivation following sound management practices and a rigorous selection program for fertility and litter size, we established an outbred WZS minipigs colony with a core group (14 males and 30 females) and an expanding group (20 males and 40 females). In 2010–2013 periods, extensive background data of this colony were recorded and analyzed. This paper was written to provide pertinent information about outbred WZS minipigs for producers, users, and others concerned with WZS minipigs. It contains physical characteristics, growth performance, productive performance, hematology and blood biochemistry, microsatellite analysis, organ coefficients, and carcass properties. Results show that WZS minipigs have characteristics of small body size, slow growth rate, long life cycle, high reproductive rate, and maintaining original genetic diversity. All data present that outbred WZS minipigs are suitable laboratory animal and model animal.
Parosteal Osteoma of the Clavicle
Authors: Inokuchi Takao , Hitora Toshiaki , Yamagami Yosiki , Nishimura Hideki , Yamamoto Tetsuji
Published: August 2014

Introduction.Osteoma is a benign, slowly growing, asymptomatic, osteogenic neoplasm. Osteoma of a bone other than the skull and facial bones is extremely rare. An extremely rare case of parosteal osteoma is reported.Case Presentation.A 51-year-old woman presented with a large mass in the left supraclavicular fossa. Radiographs and computed tomography revealed a well-defined, 9 × 6 cm, lobed mass in the midportion of the clavicle. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed that it had the same density as cortical bone. An open biopsy was performed to rule out malignant bone tumours, and parosteal osteoma was diagnosed. Four years after the biopsy, the patient was asymptomatic.Conclusion.A rare case of parosteal osteoma of the clavicle was described. Open biopsy is required to rule out a malignant bone tumour, even if parosteal osteoma is suspected based on the clinical course and imaging findings.
Sintering Behavior and Mechanical Properties of Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Ceramics
Authors: Yetmez Mehmet
Published: August 2014

The sintering behavior and the mechanical properties of a mechanical mixture of hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate (BCP) ceramics with the composition of 30% HA and 70% TCP are experimentally investigated in the temperature range between 1000°C and 1300°C. The results show that consolidation, grain growth, and Vickers hardness generally increase with increasing sintering temperature up to 1200°C. However, microstructure observation indicates that cracks are formed along the grain boundaries as well as in the bulk of the grains after sintering at 1200°C. Moreover, the best values of compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, and toughness are achieved in the samples sintered at 1100°C. These properties at 1100°C decay with sintering at 1200°C and increase again after sintering at 1300°C.
Von-Willebrand Disease Presenting as Intractable Epistaxis after Nasal Polypectomy
Authors: Park Jeong Jin , Kim Chang-Hoon , Lee Jeung-Gweon , Cho Hyung-Ju
Published: August 2014

Von-Willebrand disease (VWD) is one of the platelet dysfunction disorders that results from a deficiency of Von-Willebrand factor, which is essential for hemostasis. VWD patients typically have normal laboratory results on screening for bleeding disorders. To suspect and diagnose VWD, a careful review of past medical history and laboratory tests is critical. A 59-year-old male patient presented with intractable nasal bleeding after nasal polypectomy. The bleeding was controlled by platelet transfusion, and he was later diagnosed with VWD.
Anterior Mandibular Lingual Foramina: An In Vivo Investigation
Authors: Bernardi Sara , Rastelli Claudio , Leuter Cinzia , Gatto Roberto , Continenza Maria Adelaide
Published: August 2014

In descriptions of surgical procedures in mandible, often there is no mention of an anatomical variance, the genial spinal foramina, where nerves and vessels go through. Aim of this study is to investigate frequency, shape, and dimensions of these foramina. 56 computed tomography dentascans were analyzed with an implant planning software. The considered parameters were frequency, number, position, diameters, and length of canals; the collected data were inserted in a spreadsheet and statistically analyzed; therefore, they were compared with those found in the literature. The measurements agree with the ones found in earlier studies, except for the length of the inferior spinal canals, which resulted lesser than that found in the literature. The frequency of the inferior spinal foramina, the data related to the inferior spinal foramina diameter (cross scan), and the measurements related to the superior spinal foramina diameter (axial scan) resulted to be major compared to those reported in literature. These obtained results are clinically interesting because an implant planning software has been employed, daily used by operators, and that permits in vivo investigations. Furthermore, due to the possibility of hemorrhagic accidents in this mandibular region, these data are particularly interesting for all of the operators who make interventions in this area.
Experimental Design of Photo-Fenton Reactions for the Treatment of Car Wash Wastewater Effluents by Response Surface Methodological Analysis
Authors: Tony Maha A. , Bedri Zeinab
Published: August 2014

Establishing a treatment process for practical and economic disposal of car wash wastewater has become an urgent environmental concern. Photo-Fenton’s process as one of the advanced oxidation processes is a potentially useful oxidation process in treating such wastewater. Lab-scale experiments with UV source, coupled with Fenton’s reagent, showed that hydrocarbon oil is degradable through such a process. The feasibility of photo-Fenton’s process to treat wastewater from a car wash is investigated in the present study. A factorial design based on the response surface methodology was applied to optimize the photo-Fenton oxidation process conditions using chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction as the target parameter to optimize. The reagent (Fe2+ and H2O2 concentration) and pH are used as the controlling factors to be optimized. Maximal COD reduction (91.7%) was achieved when wastewater samples were treated at pH 3.5 in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and iron in amounts of 403.9 and 48.4 mg/L, respectively.
TET2 Inhibits Differentiation of Embryonic Stem Cells but Does Not Overcome Methylation-Induced Gene Silencing
Authors: Norman Louis , Tarrant Paul , Chevassut Timothy
Published: August 2014

TET2 is a methylcytosine dioxygenase that is frequently mutated in myeloid malignancies, notably myelodysplasia and acute myeloid leukemia. TET2 catalyses the conversion of 5′-methylcytosine to 5′-hydroxymethylcytosine within DNA and has been implicated in the process of genomic demethylation. However, the mechanism by which TET2 loss of function results in hematopoietic dysplasia and leukemogenesis is poorly understood. Here, we show that TET2 is expressed in undifferentiated embryonic stem cells and that its knockdown results in reduction of 5′-hydroxymethylcytosine in genomic DNA. We also present DNA methylation data from bone marrow samples obtained from patients with TET2-mutated myelodysplasia. Based on these findings, we sought to identify the role of TET2 in regulating pluripotency and differentiation. We show that overexpression of TET2 in a stably integrated transgene leads to increased alkaline phosphatase expression in differentiating ES cells and impaired differentiation in methylcellulose culture. We speculate that this effect is due to TET2-mediated expression of stem cell genes in ES cells via hydroxylation of 5′-methylcytosines at key promoter sequences within genomic DNA. This leads to relative hypomethylation of gene promoters as 5′-hydroxymethylcytosine is not a substrate for DNMT1-mediated maintenance methylation. We sought to test this hypothesis by cotransfecting the TET2 gene with methylated reporter genes. The results of these experiments are presented.
Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant in Patients with Persistent Macular Edema of Variable Etiologies
Authors: Sorkin Nir , Loewenstein Anat , Habot-Wilner Zohar , Goldstein Michaela
Published: August 2014

Purpose: To examine the effect of an intravitreal dexamethasone drug delivery system (DEX-DDS) in the treatment of persistent cystoid macular edema (CME) of different etiologies. Methods: Thirty-seven eyes with persistent CME were treated with DEX-DDS and analyzed for changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and optical coherence tomography. Eyes were categorized into three groups: diabetic macular edema (DME, n = 14), vein occlusion (n = 15) and uveitis (n = 7). Results: The mean follow-up was 22 ± 6.9 weeks. BCVA improved from 0.62 ± 0.38 to 0.35 ± 0.29 logMAR (p < 0.0001). Central macular thickness decreased by 184 ± 246 µm from baseline (p < 0.0001). In eyes where CME resolved and recurred, the average CME-free period was 11 weeks. The uveitis group showed faster CME resolution (2 weeks) and a longer CME-free period (20 weeks). Similar efficacy was shown for repeat DEX-DDS injections. The safety profile was good. Conclusion: DEX-DDS is beneficial in the treatment of persistent CME. In cases of uveitis, CME resolution is rapid, resulting in the longest effect duration, when compared with other CME etiologies.
Daily Protein Intake and Patient Outcomes in Severe Acute Kidney Injury: Findings of the Randomized Evaluation of Normal versus Augmented Level of Replacement Therapy (RENAL) Trial
Authors: Bellomo Rinaldo , Cass Alan , Cole Louise , Finfer Simon , Gallagher Martin , Lee Joanne , Lo Serigne , McArthur Colin , McGuinness Shay , Norton Robyn , Myburgh John , Sheinkestel Carlos ,   The RENAL Study Investigators
Published: August 2014

Background and Aims: We aimed to examine the association between daily protein intake (DPI) and outcomes in patients from the Randomized Evaluation of Normal versus Augmented Level (RENAL) trial. Methods: We analyzed the association between DPI and clinical outcomes using multivariable logistic regression, Cox proportional hazards models and time-adjusted analysis. Results: During ICU stay, mean DPI was 37.6 g/day among survivors and 37.7 g/day among nonsurvivors (p = 0.96; DPI of 0.5 g/kg/day). Only 159 (10.9%) of the patients received a mean DPI of >1 g/kg. Patients with a DPI above the median had a 43.1% mortality compared with 46.1% for a DPI below the median (p = 0.25). On multivariate analysis, a lower DPI was not associated with increased odds ratios for 90-day mortality or any secondary outcomes. Cox proportional hazards models and time-adjusted analysis confirmed these findings. Conclusions: In the RENAL study, mean DPI was low. Within the confines of such low DPI, greater amounts of DPI were not independently associated with improved clinical outcomes. Video Journal Club “Cappuccino with Claudio Ronco” at www.karger.com/?doi=363175.
Reliability of Symptoms and Endoscopic Findings for Diagnosis of Esophageal Eosinophilia in a Japanese Population
Authors: Shimura Shino , Ishimura Norihisa , Tanimura Takashi , Yuki Takafumi , Miyake Tatsuya , Kushiyama Yoshinori , Sato Shuichi , Fujishiro Hirofumi , Ishihara Shunji , Komatsu Taisuke , Kaneto Eiji , Izumi Akio , Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Maruyama Riruke , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: August 2014

Background/Aims: The clinical characteristics of esophageal eosinophilia (EE), which is essential for diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), have not been fully clarified in a Japanese population. The aim of this study was to analyze the reliability of symptoms and endoscopic findings for diagnosing EE in Japanese individuals. Methods: We prospectively enrolled subjects who complained of esophageal symptoms suggesting EoE and/or those with endoscopic findings of suspected EoE at the outpatient clinics of 12 hospitals. Diagnostic utility was compared between the EE and non-EE groups using logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 349 patients, including 319 with symptoms and 30 with no symptoms but endoscopic findings suggesting EoE were enrolled. Of those with symptoms, 8 (2.5%) had EE, and 3 were finally diagnosed with EoE. Of those without symptoms but endoscopic findings, 4 had EE. Among 8 symptomatic patients, 7 had abnormal endoscopic findings suspicious of EoE. Although dysphagia was a major symptom in EE, none of the presenting symptoms was useful for diagnosis of EE. Among the endoscopic findings, linear furrow was the most reliable (OR = 41.583). Conclusion: EE is uncommon among patients with esophageal symptoms in Japanese individuals. The most useful endoscopic finding for diagnosis of EE was linear furrow, whereas subjective symptoms were not supportive.
Evidence of Germline Mosaicism for a Novel BCOR Mutation in Two Indian Sisters with Oculo-Facio-Cardio-Dental Syndrome
Authors: Danda Sumita , van Rahden Vanessa A. , John Deepa , Paul Padma , Raju Renu , Koshy Santosh , Kutsche Kerstin
Published: August 2014

In this study, we report on 2 sisters from India with oculo-facio-cardio-dental (OFCD) syndrome caused by a novel heterozygous mutation c.3490C>T (p.R1164*) in the BCOR gene. OFCD syndrome is an X-linked inherited disorder which is lethal in males. Interestingly, both parents of the sisters were phenotypically normal, and DNA analysis from blood and buccal or saliva cells failed to detect the BCOR mutation found in their 2 daughters. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, we provide indirect evidence of germline mosaicism for the BCOR mutation in one of the parents of the 2 sisters affected by OFCD syndrome. Although this condition is lethal in males, gonadal mosaicism could also be present in the father. The relevance of clinical diagnosis and mutation analysis required for genetic counseling is described in this family.
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva: Clinical Course, Genetic Mutations and Genotype-Phenotype Correlation
Authors: Hüning Irina , Gillessen-Kaesbach Gabriele
Published: August 2014

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP, MIM 135100) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder and the most disabling condition of heterotopic (extraskeletal) ossification in humans. Mutations in the ACVR1 gene (MIM 102576) were identified as a genetic cause of FOP [Shore et al., 2006]. Most patients with FOP have the same recurrent single nucleotide change c.617G>A, p.R206H in the ACVR1 gene. Furthermore, 11 other mutations in the ACVR1 gene have been described as a cause of FOP. Here, we review phenotypic and molecular findings of 130 cases of FOP reported in the literature from 1982 to April 2014 and discuss possible genotype-phenotype correlations in FOP patients.
The Longitudinal Evolution of Cerebral Blood Flow Regulation after Acute Ischaemic Stroke
Authors: Salinet Angela S.M. , Panerai Ronney B. , Robinson Thompson G.
Published: August 2014

Background: Acute stroke is known to impair cerebral blood flow (CBF) regulation, but the longitudinal changes of these effects have been poorly reported. The main CBF regulatory mechanisms [cerebral autoregulation (CA) and neurovascular coupling (NVC)] were assessed over 3 months after acute ischaemic stroke. Methods: Recordings of CBF velocity (CBFv), blood pressure (BP), and end-tidal CO2 were performed during 5 min baseline and 1 min passive movement of the elbow. Stroke patients were assessed <72 h of stroke onset, and at 2 weeks, 1 and 3 months after stroke. Results: Fifteen acute stroke subjects underwent all 4 sessions and were compared to 22 control subjects. Baseline recordings revealed a significantly lower CBFv in the affected hemisphere within 72 h after stroke compared to controls (p = 0.02) and a reduction in CA index most marked at 2 weeks (p = 0.009). CBFv rise in response to passive arm movement was decreased bilaterally after stroke, particularly in the affected hemisphere (p < 0.01). Both alterations in CA and NVC returned to control levels during recovery. Conclusion: The major novel finding of this study was that both CA and NVC regulatory mechanisms deteriorated initially following stroke onset, but returned to control levels during the recovery period. These findings are relevant to guide the timing of interventions to manipulate BP and potentially for the impact of intensive rehabilitation strategies that may precipitate acute physiological perturbations but require further exploration in a larger population that better reflects the heterogeneity of stroke. Further, they will also enable the potential influence of stroke subtype to be investigated.
Nematodes from galls on Myrtaceae. VI. Fergusobia from galls on Angophora in Australia, with description of F. colbrani n. sp. and key
Authors: Davies KERRIE A. , TAYLOR GARY S. , NELSON LEIGH A. , YEATES DAVID , Giblin-Davis ROBIN M.
Published: August 2014

Collection data and biological information is presented on the Fergusobia (Nematoda: Neotylenchidae)/ Fergusonina (Diptera: Fergusoninidae) mutualism inducing galls on Angophora in Australia. Three species and two morphospecies have been recognised. Fergusobia colbrani Davies n. sp. is described from soft spheroid leaf galls on Angophora floribunda. It is characterised by a combination of morphological characters including a small C-shaped parthenogenetic female with a short broadly conoid tail, an arcuate infective female with an almost hemispherical tail tip, and an arcuate to barely J-shaped male with an angular spicule having a notched tip and mid-length leptoderan bursa. A key to the species and morphospecies of nematodes collected from Angophora is presented. Possible relationships of these organisms are discussed based on evidence from the nematode morphology, gall forms, and the morphology of the dorsal shield of the associated Fergusonina fly larvae.
A Critically Endangered new dragonfly species from Morocco: Onychogomphus boudoti sp. nov. (Odonata: Gomphidae)
Authors: FERREIRA SÓNIA , VELO-ANTÓN GUILLERMO , BROCHARD CHRISTOPHE , VIEIRA CRISTIANA , ALVES PAULO CÉLIO , THOMPSON DAVID J. , WATTS PHILLIP C. , BRITO JOSÉ CARLOS
Published: August 2014

Both sexes of Onychogomphus boudoti sp. nov. Ferreira (Odonata: Anisoptera: Gomphidae) and exuviae are described and illustrated from a single locality in Morocco. This newly discovered species differs markedly from other Onychogomphus species by the morphology of the male epiproct and the female vulvar scale. It is genetically distinct in the mitochondrial DNA and the nuclear PRMT gene from all other Western Palaearctic Onychogomphus species. The known distribution of the new species is confined to a small stream with unusual habitat characteristics in the vicinity of Khenifra, in the Middle Atlas, where it experiences low population size and limited genetic diversity. We suggest listing this species both locally and globally as “Critically Endangered” [CR (B1, B2 + abiii)] following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
Comparison of the structure and musculature of male terminalia in the tribe Cidariini Duponchel (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae) once again throws into doubt a sister relationship with the Xanthorhoini
Authors: SCHMIDT OLGA
Published: August 2014

The structure and musculature of the male terminalia are described and illustrated in 11 genera of the tribe Cidariini (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Larentiinae) from the Holarctic and Oriental regions. Nine genital muscles were identified: m1, m2(10), m3(2), m4, m5(7), m6(5), m7(6), m8(3) and m21. Variation in the insertion of the muscles m1, m3(2), m4, m5(7), m6(5) and m8(3) on the sclerites in several generic groups of the tribe Cidariini is discussed, revealing that the Thera species group does not share some apparently cidariine characters. A comparative analysis of the musculature in the tribes Cidariini and Xanthorhoini questions the sister relationship of these tribes that was suggested by earlier studies. The application of the terms ‘anellus lobes’ and ‘labides’ is discussed.
Regime-Dependent Nonstationary Relationship between the East Asian Winter Monsoon and North Pacific Oscillation
Authors: Pak Gyundo , Park Young-Hyang , Vivier Frederic , Kwon Young-Oh , Chang Kyung-Il
Published: August 2014

The East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) and the North Pacific Oscillation (NPO) constitute two outstanding surface atmospheric circulation patterns affecting the winter sea surface temperature (SST) variability in the western North Pacific. The present analyses show the relationship between the EAWM and NPO and their impact on the SST are nonstationary and regime-dependent with a sudden change around 1988. These surface circulation patterns are tightly linked to the upper-level Ural and Kamchatka blockings, respectively. During the 1973–87 strong winter monsoon epoch, the EAWM and NPO were significantly correlated to each other, but their correlation practically vanishes during the 1988–2002 weak winter monsoon epoch. This nonstationary relationship is related to the pronounced decadal weakening of the Siberian high system over the Eurasian continent after the 1988 regime shift as well as the concomitant positive NPO-like dipole change and its eastward migration in tropospheric circulation over the North Pacific. There is a tight tropical–extratropical teleconnection in the western North Pacific in the strong monsoon epoch, which disappears in the weak monsoon epoch when there is a significant eastward shift of tropical influence and enhanced storm tracks into the eastern North Pacific. A tentative mechanism of the nonstationary relationship between the EAWM and NPO is proposed, stressing the pivotal role played in the above teleconnection by a decadal shift of the East Asian trough resulting from the abrupt decline of the EAWM since the late 1980s.
Impact of Sea Spray on Air–Sea Fluxes. Part II: Feedback Effects
Authors: Mueller James A. , Veron Fabrice
Published: August 2014

This paper presents estimations for the transfer of momentum, heat, and water mass between the air and the sea. The results from Lagrangian stochastic simulations of sea spray drops (see Part I), along with two sea spray generation functions, are used to calculate the spray-mediated flux components of the air–sea fluxes. When the spray-mediated fluxes constitute a significant fraction of the total fluxes under certain conditions, their feedback effect on the atmosphere cannot be neglected. The authors derive a simplified feedback model to investigate such cases, finding that the spray-mediated fluxes may be especially sensitive to the size distribution of the drops. The total effective air–sea fluxes lead to drag and enthalpy coefficients that increase modestly with wind speed. The rate of increase for the drag coefficient is greatest at moderate wind speeds, while the rate of increase for the enthalpy coefficient is greatest at higher wind speeds where the spray is ubiquitous.
Teacher Evaluation
Authors: Nielsen Lance D.
Published: August 2014

Teacher evaluation is a current hot topic within music education. This article offers strategies for K–12 music educators on how to promote their effectiveness as teachers through archival documentation in a teacher portfolio. Using the Danielson evaluation model (based on four domains of effective teaching practices), examples of music teaching instruction and assessment practices are provided for each domain. The goal is to demonstrate what great music teachers do to promote student learning in music. Teacher reflection via journaling/blogging is a crucial element of the teacher evaluation process. The music teacher portfolio offers a link for teacher and evaluator to engage in meaningful conversations about effective teaching.
The New National Standards for Music Educators
Authors: Shuler Scott C. , Norgaard Martin , Blakeslee Michael J.
Published: August 2014

Hundreds of educators contributed to writing and reviewing the new National Core Music Standards over two years of development. Thousands more will find their professional lives shaped by these standards over decades to come. Three individuals involved in standards development explain.
Creating Safe Spaces for Music Learning
Authors: Hendricks Karin S. , Smith Tawnya D. , Stanuch Jennifer
Published: August 2014

This article offers a practical model for fostering emotionally safe learning environments that instill in music students a positive sense of self-belief, freedom, and purpose. The authors examine the implications for music educators of creating effective learning environments and present recommendations for creating a safe space for learning, including (1) specific teacher attitudes and behaviors that nurture a sense of trust and respect, thereby encouraging experimentation, risk taking, and self-expression, and (2) music teaching strategies that foster purpose-driven student commitment and musical mastery toward a sense of self-actualization.
Another Perspective
Authors: Williams David A.
Published: August 2014

This article looks at the iPad’s role as a musical instrument through the lens of a live performance ensemble that performs primarily on iPads. It also offers an overview of a pedagogical model used by this ensemble, which emphasizes musician autonomy in small groups, where music is learned primarily through aural means and concerts are interactive shows. Such a model could also be well suited to those using any type of instruments and would have significant potential to attract students who do not currently take part in our traditional school ensembles.
Novel Ti based metal matrix composites reinforced with Al–Cr–Fe quasicrystals approximants
Authors: Li R. T. , Dong Z. L. , Khun N. W. , Khor K. A.
Published: August 2014

In this work, Ti/Al–Cr–Fe metal matrix composites were fabricated with Ti as matrix and Al–Cr–Fe quasicrystal approximants as reinforcements using spark plasma sintering. In all samples a Ti3Al ring forms around each Al–Cr–Fe particle as a bonding layer between Ti and Al–Cr–Fe particles. In the sample sintered with a holding time of 5 min, there are only TiAl regions present at the Ti3Al/Al–Cr–Fe interface. However, in the samples sintered with a holding time of 10, 15 or 20 min, TiAl, Ti(Al,Cr)2 and L12 regions were detected at the Ti3Al/Al–Cr–Fe interface. The addition of Al–Cr–Fe particles into the Ti matrix was found to improve the mircrohardness to 460 HV and increase the wear resistance by more than 50.
Electrodeposition of taurine on gold surface and electro-oxidation of malondialdehyde
Authors: Zamani-Kalajahi M. , Hasanzadeh M. , Shadjou N. , Khoubnasabjafari M. , Ansarin K. , Jouyban-Gharamaleki V. , Jouyban A.
Published: August 2014

In this study, polytaurine film was formed on a gold surface using repetitive cyclic voltammetry (CV) from taurine and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and used as an electrochemical nanobiosensor for determination of malondialdehyde (MDA). The electrochemical behaviour of polytaurine modified gold (PT/Au) electrode was studied using CV technique. The Electroanalytical behaviour of MDA was investigated at the PT/Au electrode in (PBS), using differential pulse voltammetry. Finally, the applicability of the method to direct assays of human serum and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) is described, and the results showed that this polymeric sensor is suitable for detecting total serum MDA levels of healthy people because the normal level of total MDA in serum is in the range of 0·78–3·10 mM. The results show that by using the proposed sensor, MDA can be determined with detection limits of 34 and 0·995 nM in human serum and EBC samples, respectively.
Unraveling the clonal hierarchy of somatic genomic aberrations
Authors: Prandi Davide , Baca Sylvan C , Romanel Alessandro , Barbieri Christopher E , Mosquera Juan-Miguel , Fontugne Jacqueline , Beltran Himisha , Sboner Andrea , Garraway Levi A , Rubin Mark A , Demichelis Francesca
Published: August 2014

Defining the chronology of molecular alterations may identify milestones in carcinogenesis. To unravel the temporal evolution of aberrations from clinical tumors, we developed CLONET, which upon estimation of tumor admixture and ploidy infers the clonal hierarchy of genomic aberrations. Comparative analysis across 100 sequenced genomes from prostate, melanoma, and lung cancers established diverse evolutionary hierarchies, demonstrating the early disruption of tumor-specific pathways. The analyses highlight the diversity of clonal evolution within and across tumor types that might be informative for risk stratification and patient selection for targeted therapies. CLONET addresses heterogeneous clinical samples seen in the setting of precision medicine.
Cancer progression modeling using static sample data
Authors: Sun Yijun , Yao Jin , Nowak Norma J , Goodison Steve
Published: August 2014

As molecular profiling data continue to accumulate, the design of integrative computational analyses that can provide insights into the dynamic aspects of cancer progression becomes feasible. Here, we present a novel computational method for the construction of cancer progression models based on the analysis of static tumor samples. We demonstrate the reliability of the method with simulated data, and describe the application to breast cancer data. Our findings support a linear, branching model for breast cancer progression. An interactive model facilitates the identification of key molecular events in the advance of disease to malignancy.
Computationally efficient three-dimensional acoustic finite-difference frequency-domain seismic modeling in vertical transversely isotropic media with sparse direct solver
Authors: Operto Stephane , Brossier Romain , Combe Laure , Métivier Ludovic , Ribodetti Alessandra , Virieux Jean
Published: August 2014

The computational burden of frequency-domain full-waveform inversion (FWI) of wide-aperture fixed-spread data is conventionally reduced by limiting the inversion to a few discrete frequencies. In this framework, frequency-domain seismic modeling is performed efficiently for multiple sources by solving the linear system resulting from the discretization of the time-harmonic wave equation with the massively parallel sparse direct solver. Frequency-domain seismic modeling based on the sparse direct solver (DSFDM) requires specific design finite-difference stencils of compact support to minimize the computational cost of the lower-upper decomposition of the impedance matrix in terms of memory demand and floating-point operations. A straightforward adaptation of such finite-difference stencil, originally developed for the (isotropic) acoustic-wave equation, is proposed to introduce vertical transverse isotropy (VTI) in the modeling without any extra computational cost. The method relies on a fourth-order wave equation, which is decomposed as the sum of a second-order elliptic-wave equation plus an anellipticity correction term. The stiffness matrix of the elliptic-wave equation is easily built from the isotropic stiffness matrix by multiplying its coefficients with factors that depend on Thomsen’s parameters, whereas the anelliptic term is discretized with a parsimonious second-order staggered-grid stencil. Validation of DSFDM against finite-difference time-domain modeling performed in various synthetic models shows that a discretization rule of four grid points per minimum wavelength provides accurate DSFDM solutions. Moreover, comparison between real data from the Valhall field and DSFDM solutions computed in a smooth VTI subsurface model supports that the method can be used as a fast and accurate modeling engine to perform multiparameter VTI FWI of fixed-spread data in the viscoacoustic approximation.
Visualization of Solution Chemistry by X-ray Crystallography Using Porous Coordination Networks
Authors: Inokuma Yasuhide , Fujita Makoto
Published: August 2014

Porous coordination networks have two distinctive characteristics: robust coordination frameworks and fluid pores wherein molecules are mobile. These characteristics allow solution chemistry to be performed in the crystalline state, thus enabling single-crystal X-ray observation of various reactions and host–guest complexation usually observed in solution. From this viewpoint, porous coordination networks can be used as a tool for visualizing solution-based chemical reactions. Using this tool, we have visualized chemical reactions within porous coordination network crystals to elucidate the reaction mechanisms and to determine the molecular structures of the products and intermediates. When the nanospace of porous coordination networks is cleverly designed on the basis of the structures of hollow molecular hosts in solution, solution-like host–guest chemistry is also reproduced in crystals, therefore enabling their visualization by X-ray crystallography. Furthermore, a new method based on crystalline-state host–guest chemistry was developed for the single-crystal X-ray analysis of trace amounts of noncrystalline compounds using porous coordination networks. In this account, we review and discuss the visualization of unique solution-like phenomena by single-crystal X-ray analysis using porous coordination networks as crystalline hosts.
Octahexyltetrabenzotriazaporphyrin: A Discotic Liquid Crystalline Donor for High-performance Small-molecule Solar Cells
Authors: Dao Quang-Duy , Watanabe Koichi , Itani Hiromichi , Sosa-Vargas Lydia , Fujii Akihiko , Shimizu Yo , Ozaki Masanori
Published: August 2014

Phase-transition, optical, and photoconductive properties of a discotic liquid crystalline donor, nonperipherally substituted octahexyltetrabenzotriazaporphyrin (C6TBTAPH2), was characterized for high-performance solution-processed bulk heterojunction (BHJ) organic solar cells (OSCs). C6TBTAPH2 exhibited high hole and electron mobilities at room temperature, exceeding 0.18 cm2 V−1 s−1, and strong absorption at both B-band and Q-band. A high power conversion efficiency of 4.9% under AM 1.5G irradiation (100 mW cm−2) was achieved for BHJ OSCs utilizing phase-separated nanomaterials comprising C6TBTAPH2 and 1-(3-methoxycarbonyl)propyl-1-phenyl-(6,6)C71.
Facile Ionic Liquid Combustion Synthesis and Visible-light Photocatalytic Ability of Mesoporous FeAl2O4 with High Specific Surface Area
Authors: Chai Mei-juan , Chen Xiang-min , Zhao Ye , Liu Rui-hong , Zhao Jun , Li Fa-tang
Published: August 2014

A facile synthesis route of pure FeAl2O4 via self-combustion of ionic liquid is developed using (C2H5)2NH·HCl and urea as cofuels. (C2H5)2NH·HCl not only is the source of cation in ionic liquid but also serves as fuel. The products possess pure hercynite phase, mesoporous structure, and large specific surface areas (89–185 m2 g−1). The visible-light photocatalytic activity of FeAl2O4 is also reported for the first time.
Growth, Parkinson's, pain
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: August 2014

JOURNALS WATCH

In-depth analysis of the latest research. Compiled by Mark Greener
Supplementing infant feeds
Authors: Kochhar Suneeta
Published: August 2014

NUTRITION

Mothers are often unsure about babies nutritional needs. Suneeta Kochhar discusses the guidance around supplements in infant feeding
Pharmacological options for smoking cessation in youths
Authors: Attar-Zadeh Darush
Published: August 2014

SMOKING

The effective prescribing of nicotine replacement therapy and nurse support can help young people quit smoking, explains Darush Attar-Zadeh
Characteristics of diabetic patients visiting a podiatry practice in Germany
Authors: Lauterbach S. , Kostev K. , Becker R.
Published: August 2014

Objective:

To describe the foot characteristics of diabetic patients attending a podiatry practice for their first consultation. The objective was to determine how effectively diabetic foot ulcers are being prevented in primary care.

Method:

All diabetic patients who presented at a podiatry practice between 2006 and 2008 for their first consultation were analysed. Anonymous data were obtained from the standard patient anamnesis sheet completed by the podiatrist. These included results of patient interviews and examinations.

Results:

A total of 230 diabetic patients (93.9% had type 2 diabetes mellitus and 6.1% had type 1) were analysed. The mean age was 67.7 years (± 10.8). Just under half (47.4%) were female. The mean duration of diabetes was 12.6 years (± 10.5) years. 70.4% of the patients had diabetic neuropathy (confidence intervals: 64.5–76.3), of whom 73.2% already had resting foot pain or strain foot pain while walking. 58.3% of the patients had toenail mycosis, and of these 38.1% had the infection in all 10 toenails. Most of the patients had at least one foot deformities (89.6% splayfoot and 37.0% flatfoot). 40.2% had no sensation to microfilament testing on either their right or left foot toes. The overall mean vibration sensation test threshold was 3.7 (± 2.3).

Conclusion:

While there is a structure and strategy for the primary and secondary prevention of the diabetic foot ulcers, its delivery is often ineffective. This audit shows that, in Germany, the detection and prevention of diabetic foot problems in podiatric practices happens far too late.
Repair of a huge vesicocutaneous fistula with the rectus femoris musculocutaneous flap and VAC
Authors: Katsuragi Yoko , Ueda K. , Kajikawa A. , Tateshita T. , Okochi H.
Published: August 2014

Adequate drainage is a prerequisite for closing a vesicocutaneous fistula, but the continued exposure to urine makes this impossible. Here, VAC was successfully used as a preoperative therapy before flap transplantation
Management solutions for tissue viability: JWC conference report
Authors: Cowan T.
Published: August 2014

In March, the third annual JWC conference was held. Its theme was twofold: how to fulfil the requirements of the quality agenda and, in so doing, show that tissue viability is worthy of further investment, placing it firmly on the map
Adventures through the looking glass
Authors: Sharp Dee
Published: August 2014

Once children have discovered the magic of mirrors through exploration and free play, you can direct their investigations to help them learn more about how they reflect light and create symmetry, says Dee Sharp.
Are you approachable?
Authors: Cooper Janet
Published: August 2014

In this extract from The Early Years Communication Handbook, Janet Cooper examines how the communication environment can be made accessible and welcoming for children, staff and parents.
‘Soft and banana-ry’
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: August 2014

Wholesome ingredients go into these Jamaican Banana Muffins which are fun to make, says Ailsa Chapman.
Completing the picture
Authors: Baranek Jo
Published: August 2014

The new Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice will be in place from the beginning of September. Here the NDNA's Jo Baranek explains what it will mean for practitioners and nurseries.
‘Hello…pleased to meet you!’
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: August 2014

It is the start of the autumn term and time for you to welcome new children and returners to the setting. Use our poem to help children forget their worries and make friends with a lost, friendly teddy bear.
Vom Wunder der Sichtbarkeit. Zum Gedanken des Schönen im Mittelalter
Authors: Pöltner Günther
Published: August 2014

Riassunto

Per il medioevo, il Bello non è - come per noi oggi - un fenomeno estetico, ma ontologico. La questione è dunque in primo luogo che cosa esso sia, e non quali effetti susciti nel soggetto. In relazione a questa domanda, il medioevo conosce due tradizioni di pensiero: una fa riferimento a Platone, l’altra al neoplatonico Plotino. Nell’alto medioevo, le due scuole di pensiero si congiungono. Per Tommaso d’Aquino, il Bello è una determinazione trascendentale dell’essere. Il Bello è identico al Buono nella sostanza, ma diverso da esso nel senso. Il Bello rende esperibile il miracolo della visibilità, ossia l’inoltrepassabile disvelamento dell’essere.
Ingegno – Inganno – Diletto. Reden über Kunst bei Dante, Boccaccio und Petrarca
Authors: Blume Dieter
Published: August 2014

Riassunto

Questo saggio intende proporre una nuova lettura delle immagini e delle opere d’arte tematizzate negli scritti di Dante, Boccaccio e Petrarca. Il punto di partenza di questo percorso è da una parte il ruolo particolare dello sguardo nella lirica italiana del XIII secolo, dall’altra il significato di una raffigurazione dipinta di Amore in Guittone d’Arezzo. Dante dà esplicitamente una chiara funzione didattica ai rilievi da lui descritti nel Purgatorio ma, solo una generazione più tardi, questo tentativo moraleggiante viene abbandonato dal Boccaccio con cui il discorso allegorico si fa più sottile e nascosto: nel Decamerone infatti i pittori sono soprattutto i maestri della finzione e dell’inganno, coloro che possono ingannare perfettamente i cinque sensi. Anche Petrarca indica con forza, così come Boccaccio, il valore dell’ingegno dell’artista, ma sottolinea l’importanza del diletto che l’osservatore prova nell’azione del guardare. Questa teoria estetica del Trecento si può quindi condensare nella seguente serie di concetti: Ingegno - inganno - diletto - ingegno.
Per essemplo di lei bieltà si prova – Dantes Beatrice
Authors: Schreiber Sylvia
Published: August 2014

Riassunto

Nella famosa canzone della Vita Nuova »Donne ch’avete intelletto d’amore« Dante presenta la figura di Beatrice come modello della bellezza femminile. Nel Convivio conferma che »bello è tanto quanto lei somiglia«. Nel Paradiso gli mancano le parole per descrivere la bellezza della sua donna. Partendo dalla questione dell’ideale estetico e della rappresentazione della donna nelle arti figurative all’epoca di Dante, questo contributo cerca di mostrare l’immagine che il poeta ci presenta della sua donna. Come gli innumerevoli ritratti di madonne e di sante del suo tempo, le poesie di Dante e degli stilnovisti trasmettono un’immagine piuttosto stereotipata della donna. La bellezza del suo corpo coincide con la bontà della sua anima, e non viene concretizzata attraverso descrizioni precise: i poeti si limitano a parlare del bel viso, degli occhi, della bocca, del colore del vestito. Come nella pittura, non è ancora giunta l’epoca del ritratto individuale. L’ammirazione delladonna si esprime nello stile della loda, conforme alle convenzioni retoriche del dolce stil nuovo. Nella Vita Nuova la bellezza della donna angelicata si unisce alla sua funzione come ispiratrice della poesia, mentre nella Divina Commedia Beatrice diventa guida spirituale di Dante nel suocammino verso la conoscenza divina
Lectura Dantis: Purgatorio X
Authors: Fajen Robert
Published: August 2014

Riassunto

Nel canto X del Purgatorio Dante immagina un’arte divina come risposta alla superbia dell’arte umana. I bassorilievi in cui Dio ha scolpito tre esempi dell’umiltà sono immagini perfette di un concetto altrettanto perfetto. Nonostante la confusione dei sensi che esse provocano, queste sculture divine vengono percepite dal poeta come rappresentazioni. La famosa formula del »visibile parlare« (v. 95) evidenzia come per Dante l’arte sia solo legittimata se mira alla parola e con questo ad un significato intellettuale e spirituale. L’apparenza, in questa concezione dell’arte, non è un’illusione, ma al contrario è al servizio della conoscenza. Questa apologia di una apparenza che non sia ingannevole, che Dante riassume in un verso raramente commentato (v. 133), permette una interpretazione alternativa della prima terzina del canto. Nello stesso tempo la rappresentazione dell’arte divina indica i limiti imposti all’arte umana. In modo tanto discreto quanto umile, Dante ha messo in scena, alla fine di questo canto, i limiti della sua propria poesia
Numerical Simulation of Chemical Stripping Process in Resid Fluid Catalytic Cracking Stripper
Authors: Liu Yingjie , Yang Jihe , Lan Xingying , Gao Jinsen
Published: August 2014

The chemical stripping process in a commercial scale V-baffled resid fluid catalytic cracking stripper was simulated using computational fluid dynamics method. At the outset, it was assumed that the stripping steam initially desorbs hydrocarbons from the catalysts, and the hydrocarbons are then cracked through thermal and catalytic cracking reactions before entering the disengager. The Eulerian–Eulerian two-fluid model coupled with a modified drag model was applied to simulate the gas–solid flow behavior. A desorption model and five-lump kinetic model for thermal and catalytic cracking were utilized to represent the desorption and cracking processes during stripping. The flow modeling results indicated that three different flow regions exist in the stripper: bubbling flow, intermediate flow and turbulent flow. Increasing gas velocity improves the flow conditions of the gas, but adversely affects the particle flow. The degree of mixing of the gas and solid increases along the flowing direction. The results of reaction modeling showed that about 80% of hydrocarbons desorbed from the catalysts. The amount of desorbed oil increases with bed height leading to an increase of heavy oil in the disengager which induces coking problem. By increasing the catalyst temperature, the partial pressure of heavy oil can be lowered down which helps to decrease the disengager coking.