bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrolysis of magnesium sesquicarbide Mg2C3
Authors: Hájek Bohumil , Karen Pavel , Brožek Vlastimil
Published: December 2013

Samples of magnesium carbide containing 88.9% Mg2C3 were prepared by choosing suitable conditions (temperature 685 ± 5 °C, magnesium dust particles below 0.05 mm, n-pentane flow rate with reduced pressure 10 l/h, reaction period 1.25 h). In their hydrolysis products, propadiene was found gas chromatographically to be present in quantities about 6% vol. at room temperature; its concentration does not change with time, but it rises with increasing temperature. At temperatures above 200 °C, the hydrocarbons formed start to decompose as a result of their reaction with water vapour; if the temperature exceeds 400 °C, the reaction leads instantaneously to an equilibrium mixture of CH4, C2H4, C3H6, and carbon oxide. During reaction with water at higher temperatures and pressures, reforming reactions proceed to a greater extent. Samples containing more than 60% Mg2C3 cannot be hydrolyzed with liquid water without hazard of thermal decomposition of the hydrocarbons, analogous to the reaction with water vapour at higher temperatures. The actual temperature of the reacting carbide surface can be estimated, up to approximately 300 °C, from the content of propadiene in the hydrolysis products. In accordance with the results of the hydrolysis experiments, the carbide structure is assumed to involve linear C=C=C4- groupings.
Fourier component analysis of internal rotation in β-carbofunctional derivatives of group IVb elements
Authors: Dejmek Luboš , Ponec Robert , Chvalovský Václav
Published: December 2013

Fourier analysis of potential curves of internal rotation around C-X and C-C bonds of β-carbofunctional derivatives of the type H3M(CH2)2X (M = X, Si, Ge; X = NH2, OH, F) has been performed and the nature of intramolecular interactions in these compounds is discussed.
1H and 13C NMR study of (X-phenyl)-5-nitro-2-furylvinyl ethers
Authors: Dandárová Miloslava , Kováč Jaroslav , Végh Daniel
Published: December 2013

Reaction of 5-nitro-2-furylvinyltrimethylammonium bromide with substituted phenolates gave (E)- and (Z)-(X-phenyl)-5-nitro-2-furylvinyl ethers. The preffered s-cis and s-trans orientations of the furan ring in Z and E isomers, respectively, were determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy. To study the extent of p-π conjugation, 13C NMR spectra of compounds under investigation have also been measured and interpreted. Chemical shifts for ethylenic carbons and protons were correlated with Hammett σ constants.
Reassessment of Crohn's disease treated with at least 12 months of anti-TNF therapy: how likely is treatment withdrawal?
Authors: Dart R J , Griffin N , Taylor K , Duncan J , Sastrillo M , Sanderson J , Irving P M
Published: December 2013

Objective

To assess methods of disease reassessment and rates of treatment withdrawal in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) treated with biologics and to report retrospective risk stratification for treatment withdrawal as suggested by the STORI trial in the context of this cohort.

Design

A retrospective observational cohort study of all patients with CD treated with antitumour necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy for >12 months in 2011.

Setting

Tertiary care.

Patients

Patients with CD treated with anti-TNF therapy.

Main outcome measures

Method and outcome of reassessment and whether patient was withdrawn from therapy; also, whether patients met low-risk criteria for withdrawal as identified by the STORI trial, and outcome of those meeting low-risk criteria.

Results

73 patients (infliximab n=48, adalimumab n=25) underwent disease reassessment. Nine patients were deemed to have achieved remission and were withdrawn from treatment: 6 (67%) maintained remission at 12 months, three patients relapsed and were successfully retreated. 52 patients had sufficient data available for STORI criteria to be applied retrospectively. 37% (19/52) fulfilled low-risk criteria for withdrawal—of these, 26% (5/19) were withdrawn from anti-TNF therapy and three had sustained clinical remission at 1 year. Reasons for non-withdrawal included ongoing endoscopic activity (n=8), radiological activity (n=2) and clinical concern due to previous disease behaviour (n=4).

Conclusions

Relatively few patients were deemed in sufficient depth of remission to warrant a trial of withdrawal of anti-TNF therapy. Many patients were not withdrawn, despite meeting STORI low-risk criteria, due to ongoing disease activity highlighting the limitations of applying such criteria in a ‘real world’ setting.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a practical approach to diagnosis and staging
Authors: Dyson Jessica K , Anstee Quentin M , McPherson Stuart
Published: December 2013

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is now the commonest cause of abnormal liver function tests (LFTs) in the UK with approximately a third of the population being affected. The exact prevalence is not known, but population studies from the USA and China using magnetic resonance spectroscopy estimate that approximately 30% of the general population have steatosis. It is a spectrum of disease ranging from simple steatosis, to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), through to advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis. The majority have simple steatosis, but approximately 10–30% develop NASH and the development of NASH cirrhosis is associated with a poor long-term prognosis. Patients with NASH have increased liver-related and cardiovascular mortality. Many patients with NAFLD remain undiagnosed, and recognising those at risk is the first step. Clinicians overly rely on abnormal liver enzymes to identify patients with NAFLD, so patients with significant liver disease can be overlooked, potentially missing opportunities for intervention. Although liver biopsy is the gold standard method for diagnosing and staging NAFLD, the majority of patients can be effectively diagnosed non-invasively with tests that are routinely available in the clinic today. This review discusses a pragmatic approach to diagnosis and staging of NAFLD so that patients at the highest risk of liver-related complications can be identified.
Noninvasive assessment of myocardial fibrosis in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Almaas Vibeke M , Haugaa Kristina H , Strøm Erik H , Scott Helge , Smith Hans-Jørgen , Dahl Christen P , Geiran Odd R , Endresen Knut , Aakhus Svend , Amlie Jan Peder , Edvardsen Thor
Published: December 2013

Objective

Late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) imaging is the reference standard for non-invasive assessment of fibrosis. In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients the histological substrate for LGE is still unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of LGE and strain echocardiography to detect type and extent of myocardial fibrosis in obstructive HCM patients undergoing septal myectomy.

Methods

Thirty-two HCM patients (age 60±10) were included in this cross-sectional study and preoperatively examined by speckle-tracking strain echocardiography and LGE-CMR (n=21). Histological fibrosis was classified as interstitial, replacement and total.

Results

Histological fibrosis was present in 31 patients. The percentage of total, interstitial and replacement fibrosis was 15(7, 31)%, 11(5, 24)% and 3(1, 6)%, respectively. Reduced longitudinal septal strain correlated with total (r=0.50, p=0.01) and interstitial (r=0.40, p=0.03), but not with replacement fibrosis (r=0.28, p=0.14). Septal LGE was detected in 13/21 (62%), but percentage LGE did not correlate with total fibrosis (r=0.25, p=0.28). Extent of fibrosis did not differ between patients with and without septal LGE (20(9, 58)% versus 14(5, 19)% p=0.41). Patients with ventricular arrhythmias (n=8) had lower septal longitudinal strain and increased extent total and interstitial fibrosis in myectomy specimens, but no differences were demonstrated in LGE. Reduced longitudinal septal strain and increased extent of interstitial fibrosis predicted ventricular arrhythmias independently of age and gender.

Conclusions

In myectomised HCM patients, reduced longitudinal septal strain correlated better with interstitial and total fibrosis in myectomy specimens, and was a more powerful tool to predict arrhythmias than LGE.
TWO-COLLECTOR TIMING OF 3–14 MeV/u PARTICLES FROM LASER-INDUCED PROCESSES IN ULTRA-DENSE DEUTERIUM
Authors: HOLMLID LEIF
Published: December 2013

D + D fusion may be initiated in ultra-dense deuterium D (-1) by nanosecond and picosecond pulsed lasers, as reported previously. Two in-line current collectors observe the MeV particles ejected from the laser target at up to a meter distance in a vacuum. The current signal is measured directly by using a fast oscilloscope with nanosecond resolution. Most of the signal observed is due to fast particles with energy of 3–14 MeV u -1. This confirms that the second stage of fusion reactions 3 He + D and T + D initiated in D + D fusion takes place, since otherwise such a large energy would not be available. The reaction rate for 3 He and T at MeV energies is high, which means reaction with D after moving a short distance of 150 nm in the ultra-dense material.
CONCEPTUALIZING AND PROGRAMMING HYBRID SERVICES IN THE CLOUD
Authors: TRUONG HONG-LINH , DUSTDAR SCHAHRAM , BHATTACHARYA KAMAL
Published: December 2013

For solving complex problems, in many cases, software alone might not be sufficient and we need hybrid systems of software and humans in which humans not only direct the software performance but also perform computing and vice versa. Therefore, we advocate constructing "social computers" which combine software and human services. However, to date, human capabilities cannot be easily programmed into complex applications in a similar way like software capabilities. There is a lack of techniques to conceptualize and program human and software capabilities in a unified way. In this paper, we explore a new way to virtualize, provision and program human capabilities using cloud computing concepts and service delivery models. We propose novel methods for conceptualizing and modeling clouds of human-based services (HBS) and combine HBS with software-based services (SBS) to establish clouds of hybrid services. In our model, we present common APIs, similar to well-developed APIs for software services, to access individual and team-based compute units in clouds of HBS. Based on that, we propose a framework for utilizing SBS and HBS to solve complex problems. We present several programming primitives for hybrid services, also covering forming hybrid solutions consisting of software and humans. We illustrate our concepts via some examples of using our cloud APIs and existing cloud APIs for software.
Small molecules organic photovoltaic devices based on the planar heterojunction porphyrin derivates/fullerene
Authors: Velez Jorge H. , Aguirre M. Jesús , Cattin Linda , Makha Mohammed , Bernede Jean C.
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we studied of photoelectric properties of multilayer organic photovoltaic cells (OPV cells). The active organic layers consisted of a planar heterojunction between a layer of (meso-tetrakis(5-bromo-2-thienyl)porphyrin), (TBrTP) as electron donor (ED) and a layer fullerene molecules. For the manufacture of photovoltaic devices we use a the technique of high vacuum by thermal sublimation that allows multilayer devices realization easily by successive depositions, and it does not require solvents, achieving purer films with reproducible characteristics. The TBrTP allows achieving OPVCs exhibiting promising efficiencies when the ABL is the MoO 3/ CuI DABL. The CuI improves the current in the organic layer by one order of magnitude, which allows decreasing the series resistance of the OPVCs and therefore improving the OPVCs.
The Political Economy of Carbon Tax: International Practice and the Australian Model
Authors: LO Alex
Published: December 2013

Carbon taxes create incentives for controlling greenhouse gases by putting a price on these emissions. In theory major carbon emitters would pay more under an effective carbon tax. In practice political considerations often dominate and consequently compromise effectiveness in emissions mitigation. Australia's carbon pricing mechanism is a recent example. It involves the use of a fixed-price instrument that resembles a carbon tax and will eventually turn into an emission trading scheme and enable price fluctuation. The policy design is however questionable for overcompensating big polluters and legitimizing the failure to curb emissions domestically. This paper offers a review of the development of carbon tax policies in various national contexts with a focus on Australia. Lessons from the international practices could provide a useful reference for China to advance its timely commitment to establishing a carbon pricing system.
Skeletal muscle as a target of LXR agonist after long-term treatment: focus on lipid homeostasis
Authors: Archer Amena , Laurencikiene Jurga , Ahmed Osman , Steffensen Knut R. , Parini Paolo , Gustafsson Jan-Åke , Korach-André Marion
Published: December 2013

The liver X receptors (LXR)α and LXRβ are transcription factors belonging to the nuclear receptor family, which play a central role in metabolic homeostasis, being master regulators of key target genes in the glucose and lipid pathways. Wild-type (WT), LXRα−/−, and LXRβ−/−mice were fed a chow diet with (treated) or without (control) the synthetic dual LXR agonist GW3965 for 5 wk. GW3965 raised intrahepatic triglyceride (TG) level but, surprisingly, reduced serum TG level through the activation of serum lipase activity. The serum TG reduction was associated with a repression of both catecholamine-stimulated lipolysis and relative glucose incorporation into lipid in isolated adipocytes through activation of LXRβ. We also demonstrated that LXRα is required for basal (nonstimulated) adipocyte metabolism, whereas LXRβ acts as a repressor of lipolysis. On the contrary, in skeletal muscle (SM), the lipogenic and cholesterol transporter LXR target genes were markedly induced in WT and LXRα−/−mice and to a lesser extent in LXRβ−/−mice following treatment with GW3965. Moreover, TG content was reduced in SM of LXRβ−/−mice, associated with increased expression of the main TG-lipase genes Hsl and Atgl. Energy expenditure was increased, and a switch from glucose to lipid oxidation was observed. In conclusion, we provide evidence that LXR might be an essential regulator of the lipid balance between tissues to ensure appropriate control of the flux of fuel. Importantly, we show that, after chronic treatment with GW3965, SM becomes the target tissue for LXR activation, as opposed to liver, in acute treatment.
p21-Activated protein kinases and their emerging roles in glucose homeostasis
Authors: Chiang Yu-ting Alex , Jin Tianru
Published: December 2013

p21-Activated protein kinases (PAKs) are centrally involved in a plethora of cellular processes and functions. Their function as effectors of small GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42 has been extensively studied during the past two decades, particularly in the realms of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and hence tumorigenesis, as well as cytoskeletal remodeling and related cellular events in health and disease. In recent years, a large number of studies have shed light onto the fundamental role of group I PAKs, most notably PAK1, in metabolic homeostasis. In skeletal muscle, PAK1 was shown to mediate the function of insulin on stimulating GLUT4 translocation and glucose uptake, while in pancreatic β-cells, PAK1 participates in insulin granule localization and vesicle release. Furthermore, we demonstrated that PAK1 mediates the cross talk between insulin and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways and hence regulates gut proglucagon gene expression and the production of the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The utilization of chemical inhibitors of PAK and the characterization of Pak1−/−mice enabled us to gain mechanistic insights as well as to assess the overall contribution of PAKs in metabolic homeostasis. This review summarizes our current understanding of PAKs, with an emphasis on the emerging roles of PAK1 in glucose homeostasis.
Porcine sst1 can physically interact with other somatostatin receptors, and its expression is regulated by metabolic/inflammatory sensors
Authors: Gahete Manuel D. , Durán-Prado Mario , Delgado-Niebla Elena , Garrido Juan J. , Rhodes Simon J. , García-Navarro Socorro , Gracia-Navarro Francisco , Malagón María M. , Luque Raúl M. , Castaño Justo P.
Published: December 2013

The majority of the biological actions attributed to somatostatin (SST) are thought to be mediated by SST receptor 2 (sst2), the most ubiquitous sst, and, to a lesser extent, by sst5. However, a growing body of evidence suggests a relevant role of sst1 in mediating SST actions in (patho)physiological situations (i.e., endometriosis, type 2 diabetes). Moreover, sst1 together with sst2 and sst5 is involved in the well-known actions of SST on pituitary somatotropes in pig and primates. Here, we cloned the porcine sst1 (psst1) and performed a structural and functional characterization using both primary and heterologous models. The psst1 sequence presents the majority of signature motifs shared among G protein-coupled receptors and, specifically, among ssts and exhibits a high homology with other mammalian sst1, with only minor differences in the amino-terminal domain, reinforcing the idea of an early evolutive divergence between mammalian and nonmammalian sst1s. psst1 is functional in terms of decreasing cAMP levels in response to SST when transfected in heterologous models. The psst1 receptor is expressed in several tissues, and analyses of gene cis elements predict regulation by multiple transcription factors and metabolic stimuli. Finally, psst1 is coexpressed with other sst subtypes in various tissues, and in vitro data demonstrate that psst1 can interact with itself forming homodimers and with other ssts forming heterodimers. These data highlight the functional importance of sst1 on the SST-mediated effects and its functional interaction with different ssts, which point out the necessity of exploring the consequences of such interactions.
Impact of insulin deprivation and treatment on sphingolipid distribution in different muscle subcellular compartments of streptozotocin-diabetic C57Bl/6 mice
Authors: Zabielski Piotr , Blachnio-Zabielska Agnieszka , Lanza Ian R. , Gopala Srinivas , Manjunatha S. , Jakaitis Daniel R. , Persson Xuan-Mai , Gransee Jaime , Klaus Katherine A. , Schimke Jill M. , Jensen Michael D. , Nair K. Sreekumaran
Published: December 2013

Insulin deprivation in type 1 diabetes (T1D) individuals increases lipolysis and plasma free fatty acids (FFA) concentration, which can stimulate synthesis of intramyocellular bioactive lipids such as ceramides (Cer) and long-chain fatty acid-CoAs (LCFa-CoAs). Ceramide was shown to decrease muscle insulin sensitivity, and at mitochondrial levels it stimulates reactive oxygen species production. Here, we show that insulin deprivation in streptozotocin diabetic C57BL/6 mice increases quadriceps muscle Cer content, which was correlated with a concomitant decrease in the body fat and increased plasma FFA, glycosylated hemoglobin level (%Hb A1c), and muscular LCFa-CoA content. The alternations were accompanied by an increase in protein expression in LCFa-CoA and Cer synthesis (FATP1/ACSVL5, CerS1, CerS5), a decrease in the expression of genes implicated in muscle insulin sensitivity (GLUT4, GYS1), and inhibition of insulin signaling cascade by Aktα and GYS3β phosphorylation under acute insulin stimulation. Both the content and composition of sarcoplasmic fraction sphingolipids were most affected by insulin deprivation, whereas mitochondrial fraction sphingolipids remained stable. The observed effects of insulin deprivation were reversed, except for content and composition of LCFa-CoA, CerS protein expression, GYS1 gene expression, and phosphorylation status of Akt and GYS3β when exogenous insulin was provided by subcutaneous insulin implants. Principal component analysis and Pearson's correlation analysis revealed close relationships between the features of the diabetic phenotype, the content of LCFa-CoAs and Cers containing C18-fatty acids in sarcoplasm, but not in mitochondria. Insulin replacement did not completely rescue the phenotype, especially regarding the content of LCFa-CoA, or proteins implicated in Cer synthesis and muscle insulin sensitivity. These persistent changes might contribute to muscle insulin resistance observed in T1D individuals.
Inhibition of Notch signaling reduces the number of surviving Dclk1+reserve crypt epithelial stem cells following radiation injury
Authors: Qu Dongfeng , May Randal , Sureban Sripathi M. , Weygant Nathaniel , Chandrakesan Parthasarathy , Ali Naushad , Li Linheng , Barrett Terrence , Houchen Courtney W.
Published: December 2013

We have previously reported that doublecortin-like kinase 1 (Dclk1) is a putative intestinal stem cell (ISC) marker. In this report, we evaluated the use of Dclk1 as a marker of surviving ISCs in response to treatment with high-dose total body irradiation (TBI). Both apoptotic and mitotic Dclk1+cells were observed 24 h post-TBI associated with a corresponding loss of intestinal crypts observed at 84 h post-TBI. Although the Notch signaling pathway plays an important role in regulating proliferation and lineage commitment within the intestine, its role in ISC function in response to severe genotoxic injury is not yet fully understood. We employed the microcolony assay to functionally assess the effects of Notch inhibition with difluorophenacetyl-l-alanyl- S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester (DAPT) on intestinal crypt stem cell survival following severe (>8 Gy) radiation injury. Following treatment with DAPT, we observed a nearly 50% reduction in the number of surviving Dclk1+crypt epithelial cells at 24 h after TBI and similar reduction in the number of surviving small intestinal crypts at 84 h. These data indicate that inhibition of Notch signaling decreases ISC survival following radiation injury, suggesting that the Notch signaling pathway plays an important role in ISC-mediated crypt regeneration. These results also suggest that crypt epithelial cell Dclk1 expression can be used as one potential marker to evaluate the early survival of ISCs following severe radiation injury.
Transcriptomics of salinity tolerance capacity in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus): a comparison of gene expression profiles between divergent QTL genotypes
Authors: Norman Joseph D. , Ferguson Moira M. , Danzmann Roy G.
Published: December 2013

Osmoregulatory capabilities have played an important role in the evolution, dispersal, and diversification of vertebrates. To better understand the genetic architecture of hypo-osmoregulation in fishes and to determine which genes and biological processes affect intraspecific variation in salinity tolerance, we used mRNA sequence libraries from Arctic charr gill tissue to compare gene expression profiles in fish exhibiting divergent salinity tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL) genotypes. We compared differentially expressed genes with QTL positions to gain insight about the nature of the underlying polymorphisms and examined gene expression within the context of genome organization to gain insight about the evolution of hypo-osmoregulation in fishes. mRNA sequencing of 18 gill tissue libraries produced 417 million reads, and the final reduced de novo transcriptome assembly consisted of 92,543 contigs. Families contained a similar number of differentially expressed contigs between high and low salinity tolerance capacity groups, and log2expression ratios ranged from 10.4 to −8.6. We found that intraspecific variation in salinity tolerance capacity correlated with differential expression of immune response genes. Some differentially expressed genes formed clusters along linkage groups. Most clusters comprised gene pairs, though clusters of three, four, and eight genes were also observed. We postulated that conserved synteny of gene clusters on multiple ancestral and teleost chromosomes may have been preserved via purifying selection. Colocalization of QTL with differentially expressed genes suggests that polymorphisms in cis-regulatory elements are part of a majority of QTL.
Design of an Efficient Real‐Time Algorithm Using Reduced Feature Dimension for Recognition of Speed Limit Signs
Authors: Cho Hanmin , Han Seungwha , Hwang Sun-Young
Published: December 2013

We propose a real‐time algorithm for recognition of speed limit signs from a moving vehicle. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) required for classification is performed by using Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) coefficients. To reduce feature dimension in LDA, DCT coefficients are selected by a devised discriminant function derived from information obtained by training. Binarization and thinning are performed on a Region of Interest (ROI) obtained by preprocessing a detected ROI prior to DCT for further reduction of computation time in DCT. This process is performed on a sequence of image frames to increase the hit rate of recognition. Experimental results show that arithmetic operations are reduced by about 60%, while hit rates reach about 100% compared to previous works.
Constructing Taipei City Sports Centre Performance Evaluation Model with Fuzzy MCDM Approach Based on Views of Managers
Authors: Wang Chen-Yang , Tsai Pei-Hsuan , Zheng Hu
Published: December 2013

This study aims to utilize the fuzzy analytical/network process (FAHP/FANP) and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach to recognize the influential indicators of sport centre business management in Taipei city’s sports centre. Twenty-three of sports centres with six-dimensions were identified from the literature review and interview with twelve experts (academic and practical experience). By considering the interrelationships among the indices, DEMATEL was used to deal with the importance and causal relationships among the evaluation indices of sports centre. Then, we employ the FAHP/FANP to determine the weight of each management criterion. Our empirical results provide two main insights: first, sports centre business management strategies comprise six-dimensions and 23 indexes; second, the FANP analysis shows that the six key factors are (in order of priority) service price, site conditions, operations management, traffic conditions, sports products, and staff quality. This study uses the FANP and DEMATEL along with mathematical computing in order to provide sports centre managers with a reliable decision-making reference and to assist them in formulating the most effective business strategy possible.
The Influence of γ‐Ray Irradiation on the Mechanical and Thermal Behaviors of nHA/PA66 Composite Scaffolds
Authors: You Fu , Li Yubao , Zuo Yi , Li Jidong
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of sterilization process using γ‐ray radiation on the melting behavior, crystallization behavior, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of nanohydroxyapatite/polyamide66 (nHA/PA66) scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. The results show that the melting temperature, degree of crystallization, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of the composite scaffolds increased with the enhancement of radiation doses from 25 kGy to 50 kGy, especially the irradiation dose of 50 kGy which imposed a remarkable effect on these properties. However, a reverse trend was found when the 100 kGy irradiation dose was applied. In general, a conclusion can be drawn that sterilization using γ‐ray radiation with proper dose has no adverse effect on the properties of nHA/PA66 composite scaffolds.
Arteriojejunal Fistula Presenting with Recurrent Obscure GI Hemorrhage in a Patient with a Failed Pancreas Allograft
Authors: Desai Nirmit , Patel Sagar , Nwosu Chinyere , Sung Lok , Tack Carl , Buscaglia Jonathan M. , Nord Edward P. , Wadhwa Nand K.
Published: December 2013

We present a case of a patient with a failed pancreaticoduodenal allograft with exocrine enteric-drainage who developed catastrophic gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. Over the course of a week, she presented with recurrent GI bleeds of obscure etiology. Multiple esophago-gastro-duodenoscopic (EGD) and colonoscopic evaluations failed to reveal the source of the hemorrhage. A capsule endoscopy and a technetium-labeled red blood cells (RBC) imaging study were similarly unrevealing for source of bleeding. She subsequently developed hemorrhagic shock requiring emergent superior mesenteric arteriography. Run off images revealed an external iliac artery aneurysm with fistulization into the jejunum. Coiled embolization was attempted but abandoned because of hemodynamic instability. Deployment of a covered endovascular stent into the right external iliac artery over the fistula site resulted in immediate hemodynamic stabilization. A high index of suspicion for arterioenteric fistulae is needed for diagnosis of this uncommon but eminently treatable form of GI hemorrhage in this patient population.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Traffic Signal Timing for Oversaturated Intersection
Authors: Li Yan , Yu Lijie , Tao Siran , Chen Kuanmin
Published: December 2013

For the purpose of improving the efficiency of traffic signal control for isolate intersection under oversaturated conditions, a multi-objective optimization algorithm for traffic signal control is proposed. Throughput maximum and average queue ratio minimum are selected as the optimization objectives of the traffic signal control under oversaturated condition. A simulation environment using VISSIM SCAPI was utilized to evaluate the convergence and the optimization results under various settings and traffic conditions. It is written by C++/CRL to connect the simulation software VISSIM and the proposed algorithm. The simulation results indicated that the signal timing plan generated by the proposed algorithm has good efficiency in managing the traffic flow at oversaturated intersection than the commonly utilized signal timing optimization software Synchro. The update frequency applied in the simulation environment was 120 s, and it can meet the requirements of signal timing plan update in real filed. Thus, the proposed algorithm has the capability of searching Pareto front of the multi-objective problem domain under both normal condition and over-saturated condition.
Effects of Age and Cardiovascular Disease on Selective Attention
Authors: Chokron Sylvie , Helft Gérard , Perez Céline
Published: December 2013

In order to study the effect of normal aging and cardiovascular disease on selective attention, a letter-identification task was proposed to younger and older healthy adults as well as patients with a recent myocardial infarction or a recent coronary artery bypass grafting. Participants had to detect either a big stimulus or a small one surrounded by flanking letters. The stimuli were displayed horizontally, either in the left (LVF) or in the right visual field (RVF). The interaction between the type of stimulus and the hemifield of presentation reached significance in all groups except in patients who underwent a coronary artery bypass. Only young normal adults showed the expected significant RVF advantage when detecting big stimuli and an LVF advantage when detecting small stimuli surrounded by flankers. In older control adults and in patients with myocardial infarction, the RVF advantage for the condition with selective attention vanished. In patients who underwent a coronary artery bypass, reaction times were increased and no hemispheric specialization for selective attention emerged. The results are discussed with regard to the hypothesis of a Hemispheric Asymmetry Reduction in Older Adults (HAROLD model) and to the presence of cognitive dysfunction consecutive to cardiovascular disease.
High Density Lipoprotein: Assembly, Structure, Cargo, and Functions
Authors: Murphy Andrew J.
Published: December 2013

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally. For close to four decades, we have known that high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels are inversely correlated with the risk of CVD. HDL is a complex particle that consists of proteins, phospholipids, and cholesterol and has the ability to carry micro-RNAs. HDL is constantly undergoing remodelling throughout its life-span and carries out many functions. This review summarizes many of the different aspects of HDL from its assembly, the receptors it interacts with, along with the functions it performs and how it can be altered in disease. While HDL is a key cholesterol efflux particle, this review highlights the many other important functions of HDL in the innate immune system and details the potential therapeutic uses of HDL outside of CVD.
Research on Shifting Control Method of Positive Independent Mechanical Split Path Transmission for the Starting Gear
Authors: Xi JunQiang , Meng JianMin , Chen HuiYan
Published: December 2013

To realize a smooth and quick shift of the positive independent mechanical split path transmission (PIMSPT) equipped with automatic shifting control system (ASCS), the research on the feasibility of improving shift quality by dynamic and cooperative controlling engine, steering clutches, and brakes has been conducted. The shifting control method suited to starting gear of PIMSPT has been proposed. The control method is based on control parameters, such as the driving shaft speed and its derivative. The control laws of steering clutches and brakes are presented during each gear and stage of shifting. Bench and road test results show that the proposed shifting control method can not only shorten the shift time, but also decrease the jerk of shifting effectively.
Reduced Life Expectancy Model for Effects of Long Term Exposure on Lethal Toxicity with Fish
Authors: Verma Vibha , Yu Qiming J. , Connell Des W.
Published: December 2013

A model based on the concept of reduction in life expectancy (RLE model) as a result of long term exposure to toxicant has been developed which has normal life expectancy (NLT) as a fixed limiting point for a species. The model is based on the equation (LC50 = a ln(LT50) + b) where a and b are constants. It was evaluated by plotting ln LT50 against LC50 with data on organic toxicants obtained from the scientific literature. Linear relationships between LC50 and ln LT50 were obtained and a Calculated NLT was derived from the plots. The Calculated NLT obtained was in good agreement with the Reported NLT obtained from the literature. Estimation of toxicity at any exposure time and concentration is possible using the model. The use of NLT as a reference point is important since it provides a data point independent of the toxicity data set and limits the data to the range where toxicity occurs. This novel approach, which represents a departure from Haber's rule, can be used to estimate long term toxicity from limited available acute toxicity data for fish exposed to organic biocides.
Risk of Mortality (Including Sudden Cardiac Death) and Major Cardiovascular Events in Atypical and Typical Antipsychotic Users: A Study with the General Practice Research Database
Authors: Murray-Thomas Tarita , Jones Meghan E. , Patel Deven , Brunner Elizabeth , Shatapathy Chetan C. , Motsko Stephen , Van Staa Tjeerd P.
Published: December 2013

Objective. Antipsychotics have been associated with increased cardiac events including mortality. This study assessed cardiac events including mortality among antipsychotic users relative to nonusers.Methods. The General Practice Research Database (GPRD) was used to identify antipsychotic users, matched general population controls, and psychiatric diseased nonusers. Outcomes included cardiac mortality, sudden cardiac death (SCD), all-cause mortality (excluding suicide), coronary heart disease (CHD), and ventricular arrhythmias (VA). Sensitivity analyses were conducted for age, dose, duration, antipsychotic type, and psychiatric disease.Results. 183,392 antipsychotic users (115,491 typical and 67,901 atypical), 544,726 general population controls, and 193,920 psychiatric nonusers were identified. Nonusers with schizophrenia, dementia, or bipolar disorder had increased risks of all-cause mortality compared to general population controls, while nonusers with major depression had comparable risks. Relative to psychiatric nonusers, the adjusted relative ratios (aRR) of all-cause mortality in antipsychotic users was 1.75 (95% CI: 1.64–1.87); cardiac mortality 1.72 (95% CI: 1.42–2.07); SCD primary definition 5.76 (95% CI: 2.90–11.45); SCD secondary definition 2.15 (95% CI: 1.64–2.81); CHD 1.16 (95% CI: 0.94–1.44); and VA 1.16 (95% CI: 1.02–1.31). aRRs of the various outcomes were lower for atypical versus typical antipsychotics (all-cause mortality 0.83 (95% CI: 0.80–0.85); cardiac mortality 0.89 (95% CI: 0.82–0.97); and SCD secondary definition 0.76 (95% CI: 0.55–1.04).Conclusions. Antipsychotic users had an increased risk of cardiac mortality, all-cause mortality, and SCD compared to a psychiatric nonuser cohort.
Meta-Algorithms for Scheduling a Chain of Coarse-Grained Tasks on an Array of Reconfigurable FPGAs
Authors: Mehta Dinesh P. , Shetters Carl , Bouldin Donald W.
Published: December 2013

This paper considers the problem of scheduling a chain of n coarse-grained tasks on
a linear array of k reconfigurable FPGAs with the objective of primarily minimizing
reconfiguration time. A high-level meta-algorithm along with two detailed meta-algorithms
(GPRM and SPRM) that support a wide range of problem formulations and cost functions
is presented. GPRM, the more general of the two schemes, reduces the problem to
computing a shortest path in a DAG; SPRM, the less general scheme, employs dynamic
programming. Both meta algorithms are linear in n and compute optimal solutions.
GPRM can be exponential in k but is nevertheless practical because k is typically a small
constant. The deterministic quality of this meta algorithm and the guarantee of optimal
solutions for all of the formulations discussed make this approach a powerful alternative
to other metatechniques such as simulated annealing and genetic algorithms.
Reliability Analysis-Based Numerical Calculation of Metal Structure of Bridge Crane
Authors: Meng Wenjun , Yang Zhengmao , Qi Xiaolong , Cai Jianghui
Published: December 2013

The study introduced a finite element model of DQ75t-28m bridge crane metal structure and made finite element static analysis to obtain the stress response of the dangerous point of metal structure in the most extreme condition. The simulated samples of the random variable and the stress of the dangerous point were successfully obtained through the orthogonal design. Then, we utilized BP neural network nonlinear mapping function trains to get the explicit expression of stress in response to the random variable. Combined with random perturbation theory and first-order second-moment (FOSM) method, the study analyzed the reliability and its sensitivity of metal structure. In conclusion, we established a novel method for accurately quantitative analysis and design of bridge crane metal structure.
Improving the Asymptotic Properties of Discrete System Zeros in Fractional-Order Hold Case
Authors: Zeng Cheng , Liang Shan , Su Yingying
Published: December 2013

Remarkable improvements in the asymptotic properties of discrete system zeros may be achieved by properly adjusted fractional-order hold (FROH) circuit. This paper analyzes asymptotic properties of the limiting zeros, as the sampling periodTtends to zero, of the sampled-data models on the basis of the normal form representation of the continuous-time systems with FROH. Moreover, when the relative degree of the continuous-time system is equal to one or two, an approximate expression of the limiting zeros for the sampled-data system with FROH is also given as power series with respect to a sampling period up to the third-order term. And, further, the corresponding stability conditions of the sampling zeros are discussed for fast sampling rates. The ideas of the paper here provide a more accurate approximation for asymptotic zeros, and certain known achievements on asymptotic behavior of limiting zeros are shown to be particular cases of the results presented.
Preparation, Characterization, and Mechanistic Understanding of Pd‐Decorated ZnO Nanowires for Ethanol Sensing
Authors: Deng Xiao , Sang Shengbo , Li Pengwei , Li Gang , Gao Fanqin , Sun Yongjiao , Zhang Wendong , Hu Jie
Published: December 2013

ZnO nanowires (ZnO‐NWs) and Pd‐decorated ZnO nanowires (Pd‐ZnO‐NWs) were prepared by hydrothermal growth and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). When used for gas sensing, both types of nanowires showed a good selectivity to ethanol but a higher sensitivity and lower operating temperature were found with Pd‐ZnO‐NWs sensors comparing to those of ZnO‐NWs sensor. When exposed to 200 ppm ethanol, our ZnO‐NWs sensor showed a sensitivity of about 2.69 at 425°C whereas 1.3 at. % Pd‐ZnO‐NWs sensor provided a 57% more detection sensibility at 325°C. In addition, both response and recovery times of Pd‐ZnO‐NWs sensors were significantly reduced (9 s) comparing to the ZnO‐NWs. Finally, Pd‐ZnO‐NWs sensor also showed a much lower detection limit of about 1 ppm. The sensing mechanism of Pd‐ZnO‐NWs sensors has also been clarified, thereby providing a new perspective for further improvement of the sensing performance of ethanol sensors.
Stat3 Upregulates Leucine-Rich Repeat-Containing G Protein-Coupled Receptor 4 Expression in Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Liu Jia , Wei Wei , Guo Chang-An , Han Ning , Pan Jian-feng , Fei Teng , Yan Zuo-qin
Published: December 2013

The activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) signaling is the common hallmark in various human cancers including osteosarcoma. In the present study, according to PCR-based microarrays using cDNA prepared from interleukin-6 (IL-6) treated osteosarcoma cells, we found that leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 4 (LGR4) was a transcriptional target of Stat3. Overexpression of Stat3 promoted LGR4 expression, while its deficiency using small interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced LGR4 expression. Furthermore, we identified a Stat3 binding motif located at −556 to −549 bp in the LGR4 promoter that is able to interact with Stat3. Thus, our results suggest a previously unknown Stat3-LGR4 molecular network, which may control osteosarcoma development and progression.
A Survey on Deployment Algorithms in Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks
Authors: Han Guangjie , Zhang Chenyu , Shu Lei , Sun Ning , Li Qingwu
Published: December 2013

Node deployment is one of the fundamental tasks for underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs) where the deployment strategy supports many fundamental network services, such as network topology control, routing, and boundary detection. Due to the complex deployment environment in three-dimensional (3D) space and unique characteristics of underwater acoustic channel, many factors need to be considered specifically during the deployment of UASNs. Thus, deployment issues in UASNs are significantly different from those of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Node deployment for UASNs is an attractive research topic upon which a large number of algorithms have been proposed recently. This paper seeks to provide an overview of the most recent advances of deployment algorithms in UASNs while pointing out the open issues. In this paper, the deployment algorithms are classified into three categories based on the mobility of sensor nodes, namely, (I) static deployment, (II) self-adjustment deployment, and (III) movement-assisted deployment. The differences of the representative algorithms in aspects of sensor node types, computation complexity, energy consumption, deployment objectives, and so forth, are discussed and investigated in detail.
Distribution of Spinal Sensitization Evoked by Inflammatory Pain Using Local Spinal Cord Glucose Utilization Combined with 3H-Phorbol 12,13-Dibutyrate Binding in Rats
Authors: Seiko Yasuda , Kozo Ishikawa , Yoshihiro Matsumoto , Toru Ariyoshi , Hironori Sasaki , Yuika Ida , Yasutake Iwanaga , Hae-Kyu Kim , Osamu Nakanishi , Toshizo Ishikawa
Published: December 2013

Aims. Hyperalgesia following tissue injury is induced by plasticity in neurotransmission. Few investigators have considered the ascending input which activates the superficial of spinal cord. The aim was to examine neurotransmission and nociceptive processing in the spinal cord after mustard-oil (MO) injection. Both in vitro and in vivo autoradiographs were employed for neuronal activity and transmission in discrete spinal cord regions using the 14C-2-deoxyglucose method and 3H-phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (3H-PDBu) binding sites. Methods. To quantify the hyperalgesia evoked by MO, the flinching was counted for 60 min after MO (20%, 50 μL) injection in Wistar rats. Simultaneous determination of 14C-2-deoxyglucose and 3H-PDBu binding was used for a direct observation of neuronal/metabolic changes and intracellular signaling in the spinal cord. Results. MO injection evoked an increase in flinching for 60 min. LSCGU significantly increased in the Rexed I-II with 3H-PDBu binding in the ipsilateral side of spinal cord. Discussion. We clearly demonstrated that the hyperalgesia is primarily relevant to increased neuronal activation with PKC activation in the Rexed I-II of the spinal cord. In addition, functional changes such as “neuronal plasticity” may result in increased neuronal excitability and a central sensitization.
Multifocal Buruli Ulcer Associated with Secondary Infection in HIV Positive Patient
Authors: Komenan Kassi , Elidjé Ecra J. , Ildevert Gbery P. , Yao Kouassi I. , Kanga Kouame , Kouamé Kouassi A. , Abdoulaye Sangaré , Hamdam Kourouma S. , Yao Yoboué P. , Jean-Marie Kanga
Published: December 2013

Buruli ulcer is a chronic and infectious skin disease, caused byMycobacterium ulcerans. It leads to large skin ulceration and sometimes bone infection which is responsible for deformities. Here, we report a case of multifocal form of Buruli ulcer associated with secondary infection in a 46-year-old human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive woman. The antimycobacterial drugs combined to surgery allowed curing this multifocal case and rose up two relevant issues: the susceptibility of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) occurrence andMycobacteriumdissemination. The deep immune depression, the underline biological, and clinical disorders of the patient might contribute to IRIS occurrence and Buruli ulcer dissemination. Future investigations have to be conducted on the mechanism of IRIS on set and onMycobacterium ulceransdissemination after ARV drugs initiation and the patient related underline clinical or biological disorders.
Renal Transplantation in Secondary Amyloidosis Associated with Tuberculosis
Authors: Kute Vivek B. , Vanikar Aruna V. , Patel Himanshu V. , Gumber Manoj R. , Shah Pankaj R. , Modi Pranjal R. , Trivedi Hargovind L.
Published: December 2013

Although end-stage renal disease (ESRD) related to AA amyloidosis nephropathy secondary to tuberculosis is most common in our country, there are limited data concerning patient and graft outcome after renal transplantation (RTx). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of RTx in ESRD patient with secondary amyloidosis due to tuberculosis from India. A 30-year-old female with past history of pulmonary tuberculosis 3 years back was admitted with complaint of gradually progressive pedal oedema and nausea for 3 months. Renal biopsy was suggestive of secondary renal amyloidosis with vascular involvement and chronic tubulointerstitial involvement. She was transplanted with kidney from her 28-year-old brother with 3/6 human leukocyte antigen match. She had immediate good graft function without any perioperative complications (cardiovascular, infections, rejection and delayed graft function). She was discharged with serum creatinine of 0.8 mg/dL. Her last serum creatinine level was 0.9 mg/dL with cyclosporine level of 100 mg/dL at 9-month followup without any medical or surgical complication. The quality of life also improved after transplantation. With careful selection, ESRD patients with secondary amyloidosis due to tuberculosis are eligible for RTx with favorable outcome and improved quality of life.