bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cluster-randomised controlled trials of individual and combined water, sanitation, hygiene and nutritional interventions in rural Bangladesh and Kenya: the WASH Benefits study design and rationale
Authors: Arnold Benjamin F , Null Clair , Luby Stephen P , Unicomb Leanne , Stewart Christine P , Dewey Kathryn G , Ahmed Tahmeed , Ashraf Sania , Christensen Garret , Clasen Thomas , Dentz Holly N , Fernald Lia C H , Haque Rashidul , Hubbard Alan E , Kariger Patricia , Leontsini Elli , Lin Audrie , Njenga Sammy M , Pickering Amy J , Ram Pavani K , Tofail Fahmida , Winch Peter J , Colford John M
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Enteric infections are common during the first years of life in low-income countries and contribute to growth faltering with long-term impairment of health and development. Water quality, sanitation, handwashing and nutritional interventions can independently reduce enteric infections and growth faltering. There is little evidence that directly compares the effects of these individual and combined interventions on diarrhoea and growth when delivered to infants and young children. The objective of the WASH Benefits study is to help fill this knowledge gap.

Methods and analysis

WASH Benefits includes two cluster-randomised trials to assess improvements in water quality, sanitation, handwashing and child nutrition—alone and in combination—to rural households with pregnant women in Kenya and Bangladesh. Geographically matched clusters (groups of household compounds in Bangladesh and villages in Kenya) will be randomised to one of six intervention arms or control. Intervention arms include water quality, sanitation, handwashing, nutrition, combined water+sanitation+handwashing (WSH) and WSH+nutrition. The studies will enrol newborn children (N=5760 in Bangladesh and N=8000 in Kenya) and measure outcomes at 12 and 24 months after intervention delivery. Primary outcomes include child length-for-age Z-scores and caregiver-reported diarrhoea. Secondary outcomes include stunting prevalence, markers of environmental enteropathy and child development scores (verbal, motor and personal/social). We will estimate unadjusted and adjusted intention-to-treat effects using semiparametric estimators and permutation tests.

Ethics and dissemination

Study protocols have been reviewed and approved by human subjects review boards at the University of California, Berkeley, Stanford University, the International Centre for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh, the Kenya Medical Research Institute, and Innovations for Poverty Action. Independent data safety monitoring boards in each country oversee the trials. This study is funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of California, Berkeley.

Registration

Trial registration identifiers (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov):NCT01590095(Bangladesh),NCT01704105(Kenya).
External validation of the ImmunoRatio image analysis application for ERα determination in breast cancer
Authors: Sundara Rajan Sreekumar , Horgan Kieran , Speirs Valerie , Hanby Andrew M
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to validate ImmunoRatio, a web-based automated image analysis application, by comparing the manual and automated analysis scores for oestrogen receptor α (ERα) in breast carcinomas. Tissue microarrays comprising 200 breast cancer cases prestained for ERα were scanned and scored manually using ImageScope viewing software. Corresponding images were then uploaded and assessed according to the web-based ImmunoRatio programme. There was excellent correlation between manual and ImmunoRatio ERα scores (Spearman correlation=0.872; p≥0.001). The manual and ImmunoRatio ERα scores showed only a moderate agreement (κ=0.421; Weighted kappa=0.874 (CI 0.839 to 0.902)), most probably due to lack of specificity of the algorithm to differentiate between cancer and non-cancer nuclei. Further development to enable differentiation of cancer and non-cancer elements should improve the specificity of the application. Our results support the use of ImmunoRatio software for analysing ERα immunohistochemistry in breast cancer tissues for the purposes of research.
A prospective study comparing contamination rates between a novel mid-stream urine collection device (Peezy) and a standard method in renal patients
Authors: Collier S , Matjiu F , Jones G , Harber M , Hopkins S
Published: August 2013

Introduction

It is imperative that laboratories receive uncontaminated urine samples to avoid giving false-positive results and reduce antimicrobial use.

Aim

The aim of the study was to investigate a novel urine collection device (Peezy) in a renal outpatient clinic to determine whether it reduced contamination of urine samples.

Methods

The novel device was used in 420 renal transplant recipients and the results were compared with 424 matched historical controls, who used the standard method of urine collection. High epithelial cell counts on microscopy and mixed urine cultures were used to identify contaminated samples.

Results

Peezy increased the rates of both epithelial cells and mixed growths in the urine samples when compared with the historical controls.

Conclusions

Further randomised studies in other more generalisable populations need to be performed.
Expression of cancer stem cell markers is more frequent in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma compared to papillary thyroid carcinoma and is related to adverse clinical outcome
Authors: Yun Ji Yun , Kim Young A , Choe Ji-Young , Min Hyesook , Lee Kyu Sang , Jung Youngho , Oh Sohee , Kim Ji Eun
Published: August 2013

Background

Thyroid cancer is one of the most commonly detected cancers worldwide, and papillary thyroidal carcinoma (PTC) accounts for the majority of thyroid cancers. In contrast to the indolent nature of PTC, anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) shows an extremely poor prognosis and has not responded to any therapeutic modalities. Many researchers postulate that the dedifferentiation of thyroid follicular cells into primitive cells might be related to the pathogenesis of ATC because several cases of ATC have revealed pre-existing PTC lesions. Additionally, the cancer stem cell (CSC) theory has been widely accepted in the pathogenesis of ATC.

Objective

To explore the expression of various CSC markers in thyroid carcinoma tissues and analyse their clinical significance.

Methods

133 patients with PTC and 25 patients with ATC were enrolled. Immunohistochemistry for aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), CD133, CXCR4, ATP-binding cassette (ABC)G2, multidrug resistance associated protein-1 (MRP1), lung resistance protein-1 (LRP), P-glycoprotein 1 (P-Gp1), SOX2, SOX9 and Oct4 was performed using tissue microarray.

Results

CSC marker expression was significantly high in ATC, particularly chemoresistance markers such as ABCG2, MRP1, LRP and CXCR4. In PTC, ABCG2 was highly positive in more advanced pathological stages and was associated with lymph node involvement, with borderline significance. In ATC, high expression of CXCR4 correlated with distant metastasis, and LRP showed a tendency to correlate with lymph node metastasis. High expression of CSC markers was related to shorter overall survival in patients with ATC.

Conclusions

These results provide strong evidence that CSCs are related to the pathogenesis of ATC and can explain the frequent treatment failure and aggressiveness of ATC.
Glossary for the implementation of Health in All Policies (HiAP)
Authors: Freiler Alix , Muntaner Carles , Shankardass Ketan , Mah Catherine L , Molnar Agnes , Renahy Emilie , O'Campo Patricia
Published: August 2013

Health in All Policies (HiAP) is becoming increasingly popular as a governmental strategy to improve population health by coordinating action across health and non-health sectors. A variety of intersectoral initiatives may be used in HiAP that frame health determinants as the bridge between policies and health outcomes. The purpose of this glossary is to present concepts and terms useful in understanding the implementation of HiAP as a cross-sectoral policy. The concepts presented here were applied and elaborated over the course of case studies of HiAP in multiple jurisdictions, which used key informant interviews and the systematic review of literature to study the implementation of specific HiAP initiatives.
Density functional theory studies on adsorption and decomposition mechanism of FOX-7 on Al13 clusters
Authors: Ye Cai-Chao , Zhao Feng-Qi , Xu Si-Yu , Ju Xue-Hai
Published: August 2013

The adsorption and decomposition of the FOX-7 molecule on Al13 clusters were investigated by generalized gradient approximation of the density functional theory. The strong attractive forces between the FOX-7 molecule and aluminum atoms induce the N−O bond breaking of FOX-7. Subsequently, the dissociated oxygen atoms and radical fragment of FOX-7 oxidize the aluminum clusters. The largest adsorption energy is −1020.4 kJ/mol. We also investigated three adsorption reaction paths of the FOX-7 molecule on the Al13 clusters in the A configuration. The activation energy for the adsorption steps are 0.2, 11.4, and 10.2 kJ/mol, respectively, and Al13 is more active than the Al(111) surface and the Al13 cluster performs better in decreasing the adsorption barrier of FOX-7 on the aluminum surface as well. The rate constants of three adsorption paths increase as temperature increases over the temperature range 275–500 K.
The first push-pull μ-nitrido iron phthalocyanine dimer
Authors: İşci Ümit
Published: August 2013

The first push-pull μ-nitrido diiron phthalocyanine complex was prepared and characterized. The EPR spectrum confirms the Fe +3.5– N – Fe +3.5 formalism. The stability of this dimer in oxidant media (up to 1000 equivalent of H 2 O 2) was studied by UV-vis spectroscopy. The push-pull μ-nitrido diiron phthalocyanine exhibited excellent stability because of the delocalization of an unpaired electron.
IMPROVEMENT OF ENSEMBLE EMPIRICAL MODE DECOMPOSITION BY OVER-SAMPLING
Authors: BEKKA RAÏS EL'HADI , BERROUCHE YAAKOUB
Published: August 2013

The empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is a useful method for the analysis of nonlinear and nonstationary signals and found immediate applications in diverse areas of signal processing. However, the major inconvenience of EMD is the mode mixing. The ensemble EMD (EEMD) was proposed to solve the problem of mode-mixing with the assistance of added noises producing the residue noise in the signal reconstructed. The residue noise in the IMFs can be reduced with a large number of ensemble trials at the expense of the increase of computational time. Improving the computing time of the EEMD by reducing the number of ensemble trials was thus proposed in this paper by over-sampling the signal to be decomposed. Numerical simulations were conducted to demonstrate proposed approach.
Relaxor ferroelectric behavior ofBaBi4Ti4O15aurivillius ceramic
Authors: Badapanda T. , Harichandan R. K. , Mishra A. , Anwar S.
Published: August 2013

Aurivillius type compound BaBi4Ti4O15(BBT) ceramic was prepared by solid state reaction route and its electrical properties were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed orthorhombic structure with space group A21am confirming it to be an m = 4 member of the Aurivillius oxide. The scanning electron microscope of the sintered pellet showed a plate-like morphology of grains which is a characteristic feature of the Aurivillius compounds. The temperature and frequency dependence dielectric study showed a shifting of transition temperature with frequency indicating relaxor type behavior in the material. The diffuseness parameter (γ) established the relaxor nature and it was attributed to the A-site cationic disorder. The dielectric relaxation obeyed the Vogel–Fulcher (VF) relation and various parameters like activation energy for relaxation, freezing temperature, relaxation frequency were determined after nonlinear curve fitting. The temperature dependence of dielectric constant at temperatures much higher and lower than Tmwas analyzed by two exponential functions, which gives an idea about the production of polar clusters at high temperature and the distribution of freezing temperatures at lower temperature. Various other associated parameters were calculated by nonlinear curve fitting and their significance has been explained.
GEOMETRICAL EFFECT ON SPIN TRANSPORT
Authors: CHEN KUO-CHIN , CHANG CHING-RAY
Published: August 2013

This review paper shows some methods to study electrons with spin transport properties. We focus on spin precession patterns with the influence of the spin orbital interaction (SOI) by different way to discuss the spin transport on curved system. This paper can be divided into three parts. The first part is studying the spin precession patterns in the U-shaped 1D wire by introducing a confined potential. In the second part, we introduce a non-Abelian spin–orbital gauge field to study electrons transport on a curved surface. The third part is a generalized form of part one, we study exact Hamiltonians for Rashba and cubic Dresselhaus SOIs on a curved surface. We can see a lot of significant influence of SOI on curved system in this review paper.
Population Genomics of Human Adaptation
Authors: Lachance Joseph , Tishkoff Sarah A.
Published: August 2013

Recent advances in genotyping technologies have facilitated genome-wide scans for natural selection. Detecting targets of natural selection sheds light on human evolution and it can help identify genetic variants that influence normal human phenotypic variation as well as disease susceptibility. Here we focus on studies of natural selection in modern humans who originated ∼200,000 years ago in Africa and migrated across the globe ∼50,000–100,000 years ago. Movement into new environments, as well as changes in culture and technology, including plant and animal domestication, resulted in local adaptation to diverse environments. We summarize statistical approaches for detecting targets of natural selection and for distinguishing the effects of demographic history from natural selection. On a genome-wide scale, immune-related genes are major targets of positive selection. Genes associated with reproduction and fertility also are fast evolving. Additional examples of recent human adaptation include genes associated with lactase persistence, eccrine glands, and response to hypoxia. Lastly, we emphasize the need to supplement scans of selection with functional studies to demonstrate the physiologic impact of candidate loci.
Particle-Resolved Direct Numerical Simulation for Gas-Solid Flow Model Development
Authors: Tenneti Sudheer , Subramaniam Shankar
Published: August 2013

Gas-solid flows in nature and industrial applications are characterized by multiscale and nonlinear interactions that manifest as rich flow physics and pose unique modeling challenges. In this article, we review particle-resolved direct numerical simulation (PR-DNS) of the microscale governing equations for understanding gas-solid flow physics and obtaining quantitative information for model development. A clear connection between a microscale realization and meso/macroscale representation is necessary for PR-DNS to be used effectively for model development at the meso- and macroscale. Furthermore, the design of PR-DNS must address the computational challenges of parameterizing models in a high-dimensional parameter space and obtaining accurate statistics of flow properties from a finite number of realizations at acceptable grid resolution. This review also summarizes selected recent insights into the physics of momentum, kinetic energy, and heat transfer in gas-solid flows obtained from PR-DNS. Promising future applications of PR-DNS include the study of the effect of number fluctuations on hydrodynamics, instabilities in gas-solid flow, and wall-bounded flows.
Estimation and Partition of Heritability in Human Populations Using Whole-Genome Analysis Methods
Authors: Vinkhuyzen Anna A.E. , Wray Naomi R. , Yang Jian , Goddard Michael E. , Visscher Peter M.
Published: August 2013

Understanding genetic variation of complex traits in human populations has moved from the quantification of the resemblance between close relatives to the dissection of genetic variation into the contributions of individual genomic loci. However, major questions remain unanswered: How much phenotypic variation is genetic; how much of the genetic variation is additive and can be explained by fitting all genetic variants simultaneously in one model, and what is the joint distribution of effect size and allele frequency at causal variants? We review and compare three whole-genome analysis methods that use mixed linear models (MLMs) to estimate genetic variation. In all methods, genetic variation is estimated from the relationship between close or distant relatives on the basis of pedigree information and/or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We discuss theory, estimation procedures, bias, and precision of each method and review recent advances in the dissection of genetic variation of complex traits in human populations. By using genome-wide data, it is now established that SNPs in total account for far more of the genetic variation than the statistically highly significant SNPs that have been detected in genome-wide association studies. All SNPs together, however, do not account for all of the genetic variance estimated by pedigree-based methods. We explain possible reasons for this remaining “missing heritability.”
Adaptive Translation as a Mechanism of Stress Response and Adaptation
Authors: Pan Tao
Published: August 2013

The composition of the cellular proteome is commonly thought to strictly adhere to the genetic code. However, accumulating evidence indicates that cells also regulate the synthesis of mutant protein molecules that deviate from the genetic code. Production of mutant proteins generally occurs when cells are stressed or when they undergo environmental adaptation, but production varies in amounts and specificity. The deliberate synthesis of mutant proteins suggests that some of these proteins can be useful in cellular stress response and adaptation. This review describes the occurrence of, the translation mechanisms for, and the functional hypotheses on regulated synthesis of mutant proteins.
Contextualizing Mass Atrocity Crimes: Moving Toward a Relational Approach
Authors: Karstedt Susanne
Published: August 2013

Contemporary mass atrocities and genocides hold two general lessons: First, even in the course of these violent decades, genocides are rare events, and mass atrocities are not. Second, contemporary mass violence evolves in macro- and microcontexts that shape particular trajectories of conflict and violence. As the international community assumes responsibility for protecting victims and prosecuting perpetrators in contemporary high-risk environments, it is important to contextualize extreme violence and genocide and to understand the microrelational structure and dynamics of mass atrocity events. This article discusses two conceptual turns—atrocity crimes and extremely violent societies—and identifies three trajectories that move beyond an exceptionalist perspective on mass atrocities. Dynamic concentration of deterrence is suggested as a microrelational strategy for both protection and prosecution in contemporary humanitarian crises.
Hide and Seek in the Open Sea: Pelagic Camouflage and Visual Countermeasures
Authors: Johnsen Sönke
Published: August 2013

Camouflage is exceptionally challenging in pelagic environments because of their featureless nature. Thus, it is perhaps no surprise that pelagic species have evolved highly sophisticated cryptic strategies, three of which—transparency, mirrors, and counterillumination—are rare or absent in other habitats. Pelagic visual systems are equally complex, and several visual capabilities, including UV and polarization sensitivity and intraocular filters, are thought to facilitate detection of camouflaged animals. This article reviews the optical nature of the pelagic realm and both the camouflage and camouflage-breaking strategies of its inhabitants, focusing primarily on underlying principles and what remains to be discovered. A theme throughout is that far more is known about the structures of the optical and visual systems involved than about their function, an imbalance that is due primarily to the rarity of observations of undisturbed behavior.
Socioecological Psychology
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro
Published: August 2013

Socioecological psychology investigates humans' cognitive, emotional, and behavioral adaption to physical, interpersonal, economic, and political environments. This article summarizes three types of socioecological psychology research: (a) association studies that link an aspect of social ecology (e.g., population density) with psychology (e.g., prosocial behavior), (b) process studies that clarify why there is an association between social ecology and psychology (e.g., residential mobility → anxiety → familiarity seeking), and (c) niche construction studies that illuminate how psychological states give rise to the creation and maintenance of a social ecology (e.g., familiarity seeking → dominance of national chain stores). Socioecological psychology attempts to bring the objectivist perspective to psychological science, investigating how objective social and physical environments, not just perception and construal of the environments, affect one's thinking, feeling, and behaviors, as well as how people's thinking, feeling, and behaviors give rise to social and built environments.
Functional vacuolar ATPase (V-ATPase) proton pumps traffic to the enterocyte brush border membrane and require CFTR
Authors: Collaco Anne M. , Geibel Peter , Lee Beth S. , Geibel John P. , Ameen Nadia A.
Published: August 2013

Vacuolar ATPases (V-ATPases) are highly conserved proton pumps that regulate organelle pH. Epithelial luminal pH is also regulated by cAMP-dependent traffic of specific subunits of the V-ATPase complex from endosomes into the apical membrane. In the intestine, cAMP-dependent traffic of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channels and the sodium hydrogen exchanger (NHE3) in the brush border regulate luminal pH. V-ATPase was found to colocalize with CFTR in intestinal CFTR high expresser (CHE) cells recently. Moreover, apical traffic of V-ATPase and CFTR in rat Brunner's glands was shown to be dependent on cAMP/PKA. These observations support a functional relationship between V-ATPase and CFTR in the intestine. The current study examined V-ATPase and CFTR distribution in intestines from wild-type, CFTR−/− mice and polarized intestinal CaCo-2BBe cells following cAMP stimulation and inhibition of CFTR/V-ATPase function. Coimmunoprecipitation studies examined V-ATPase interaction with CFTR. The pH-sensitive dye BCECF determined proton efflux and its dependence on V-ATPase/CFTR in intestinal cells. cAMP increased V-ATPase/CFTR colocalization in the apical domain of intestinal cells and redistributed the V-ATPase Vo a1 and Vo a2 trafficking subunits from the basolateral membrane to the brush border membrane. Vo a1 and Vo a2 subunits were localized to endosomes beneath the terminal web in untreated CFTR−/− intestine but redistributed to the subapical cytoplasm following cAMP treatment. Inhibition of CFTR or V-ATPase significantly decreased pHi in cells, confirming their functional interdependence. These data establish that V-ATPase traffics into the brush border membrane to regulate proton efflux and this activity is dependent on CFTR in the intestine.
Pre- and postsynaptic modulations of hypoglossal motoneurons by α-adrenoceptor activation in wild-type and Mecp2−/Y mice
Authors: Jin Xiao-Tao , Cui Ningren , Zhong Weiwei , Jin Xin , Wu Zhongying , Jiang Chun
Published: August 2013

Hypoglossal motoneurons (HNs) control tongue movement and play a role in maintenance of upper airway patency. Defects in these neurons may contribute to the development of sleep apnea and other cranial motor disorders including Rett syndrome (RTT). HNs are modulated by norepinephrine (NE) through α-adrenoceptors. Although postsynaptic mechanisms are known to play a role in this effect, how NE modulates the synaptic transmissions of HNs remains poorly understood. More importantly, the NE system is defective in RTT, while how the defect affects HNs is unknown. Believing that information of NE modulation of HNs may help the understanding of RTT and the design of new therapeutical interventions to motor defects in the disease, we performed these studies in which glycinergic inhibitory postsynaptic currents and intrinsic membrane properties were examined in wild-type and Mecp2 −/Y mice, a mouse of model of RTT. We found that activation of α1-adrenoceptor facilitated glycinergic synaptic transmission and excited HNs. These effects were mediated by both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms. The latter effect involved an inhibition of barium-sensitive G protein-dependent K+ currents. The pre- and postsynaptic modulations of the HNs by α1-adrenoceptors were not only retained in Mecp2-null mice but also markedly enhanced, which appears to be a compensatory mechanism for the deficiencies in NE and GABAergic synaptic transmission. The existence of the endogenous compensatory mechanism is an encouraging finding, as it may allow therapeutical modalities to alleviate motoneuronal defects in RTT.
Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure relationship in heart failure: an index of right ventricular contractile function and prognosis
Authors: Guazzi M. , Bandera F. , Pelissero G. , Castelvecchio S. , Menicanti L. , Ghio S. , Temporelli P. L. , Arena R.
Published: August 2013

Echo-derived pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP) and right ventricular (RV) tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE; from the end of diastole to end-systole) are of basic relevance in the clinical follow-up of heart failure (HF) patients, carrying two- to threefold increase in cardiac risk when increased and reduced, respectively. We hypothesized that the relationship between TAPSE (longitudinal RV fiber shortening) and PASP (force generated by the RV) provides an index of in vivo RV length-force relationship, with their ratio better disclosing prognosis. Two hundred ninety-three HF patients with reduced (HFrEF, n = 247) or with preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (HFpEF, n = 46) underwent echo-Doppler studies and N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide assessment and were tracked for adverse events. The median follow-up duration was 20.8 mo. TAPSE vs. PASP relationship showed a downward regression line shift in nonsurvivors who were more frequently presenting with higher PASP and lower TAPSE. HFrEF and HFpEF patients exhibited a similar distribution along the regression line. Given the TAPSE, PASP, and TAPSE-to-PASP ratio (TAPSE/PASP) collinearity, separate Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses were performed: one with TAPSE and PASP as individual measures, and the other combining them in ratio form. Hazard ratios for variables retained in the multivariate regression were as follows: TAPSE/PASP </≥ 0.36 mm/mmHg [hazard ratio (HR): 10.4, P < 0.001]; TAPSE </≥ 16 mm (HR: 5.1, P < 0.01); New York Heart Association functional class </≥ 3 (HR: 4.4, P < 0.001); E/e’ (HR: 4.1, P < 0.001). This study shows that the TAPSE vs. PASP relationship is shifted downward in nonsurvivors with a similar distribution in HFrEF and HFpEF, and their ratio improves prognostic resolution. The TAPSE vs. PASP relationship as a possible index of the length-force relationship may be a step forward for a more efficient RV function evaluation and is not affected by the quality of LV dysfunction.
CCR2 antagonist CCX140-B provides renal and glycemic benefits in diabetic transgenic human CCR2 knockin mice
Authors: Sullivan Timothy , Miao Zhenhua , Dairaghi Daniel J. , Krasinski Antoni , Wang Yu , Zhao Bin N. , Baumgart Trageen , Ertl Linda S. , Pennell Andrew , Seitz Lisa , Powers Jay , Zhao Ruiping , Ungashe Solomon , Wei Zheng , Boring Landin , Tsou Chia-Lin , Charo Israel , Berahovich Robert D. , Schall Thomas J. , Jaen Juan C.
Published: August 2013

Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) is central for the migration of monocytes into inflamed tissues. The novel CCR2 antagonist CCX140-B, which is currently in two separate phase 2 clinical trials in diabetic nephropathy, has recently been shown to reduce hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetics. In this report, we describe the effects of this compound on glycemic and renal function parameters in diabetic mice. Since CCX140-B has a low affinity for mouse CCR2, transgenic human CCR2 knockin mice were generated and rendered diabetic with either a high-fat diet (diet-induced obesity) or by deletion of the leptin receptor gene ( db/ db). CCX140-B treatment in both models resulted in decreased albuminuria, which was associated with decreased glomerular hypertrophy and increased podocyte density. Moreover, treatment of diet-induced obese mice with CCX140-B resulted in decreased levels of fasting blood glucose and insulin, normalization of homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance values, and decreased numbers of adipose tissue inflammatory macrophages. Unlike other CCR2 antagonists, CCX140-B had no effect on plasma levels of the CCR2 ligand CCL2 or on the numbers of blood monocytes. These results support the ongoing evaluation of this molecule in diabetic subjects with impaired renal function.
Genetic deletion of growth differentiation factor 15 augments renal damage in both type 1 and type 2 models of diabetes
Authors: Mazagova Magdalena , Buikema Hendrik , van Buiten Azuwerus , Duin Marry , Goris Maaike , Sandovici Maria , Henning Robert H. , Deelman Leo E.
Published: August 2013

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is emerging as valuable biomarker in cardiovascular disease and diabetic kidney disease. Also, GDF15 represents an early response gene induced after tissue injury and studies performed in GDF15 knockout (KO) mice suggest that GDF15 plays a protective role after injury. In the current study, we investigated the role of GDF15 in the development of diabetic kidney damage in type 1 and type 2 models of diabetes. Renal damage was assessed in GDF15 KO mice and wild-type (WT) mice in streptozotocin type 1 and db/db type 2 diabetic models. Genetic deletion of GDF15 augmented tubular and interstitial damage in both models of diabetes, despite similar diabetic states in KO and WT mice. Increased tubular damage in KO animals was associated with increased glucosuria and polyuria in both type 1 and type 2 models of diabetes. In both models of diabetes, KO mice showed increased interstitial damage as indicated by increased α-smooth muscle actin staining and collagen type 1 expression. In contrast, glomerular damage was similarly elevated in diabetic KO and WT mice. In type 1 diabetes, GDF15 KO mice demonstrated increased expression of inflammatory markers. In type 2 diabetes, elevated levels of plasma creatinine indicated impaired kidney function in KO mice. GDF15 protects the renal interstitium and tubular compartment in experimental type 1 and 2 diabetes without affecting glomerular damage.
Corollary discharge contributes to perceived eye location in monkeys
Authors: Joiner Wilsaan M. , Cavanaugh James , FitzGibbon Edmond J. , Wurtz Robert H.
Published: August 2013

Despite saccades changing the image on the retina several times per second, we still perceive a stable visual world. A possible mechanism underlying this stability is that an internal retinotopic map is updated with each saccade, with the location of objects being compared before and after the saccade. Psychophysical experiments have shown that humans derive such location information from a corollary discharge (CD) accompanying saccades. Such a CD has been identified in the monkey brain in a circuit extending from superior colliculus to frontal cortex. There is a missing piece, however. Perceptual localization is established only in humans and the CD circuit only in monkeys. We therefore extended measurement of perceptual localization to the monkey by adapting the target displacement detection task developed in humans. During saccades to targets, the target disappeared and then reappeared, sometimes at a different location. The monkeys reported the displacement direction. Detections of displacement were similar in monkeys and humans, but enhanced detection of displacement from blanking the target at the end of the saccade was observed only in humans, not in monkeys. Saccade amplitude varied across trials, but the monkey's estimates of target location did not follow that variation, indicating that eye location depended on an internal CD rather than external visual information. We conclude that monkeys use a CD to determine their new eye location after each saccade, just as humans do.
Impact of 3DVAR Data Assimilation on the Prediction of Heavy Rainfall over Southern China
Authors: Hou Tuanjie , Kong Fanyou , Chen Xunlai , Lei Hengchi
Published: August 2013

This study examines the impact of three-dimensional variational data assimilation (3DVAR) on the prediction of two heavy rainfall events over Southern China by using a real-time storm-scale forecasting system. Initialized from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) high-resolution data, the forecasting system is characterized by combining the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF-ARW) model and the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) 3DVAR package. Observations from Doppler radars, surface Automatic Weather Station (AWS) network, and radiosondes are used in the experiments to evaluate the impact of data assimilation on short-term quantitative precipitation forecast (QPF) skill. Results suggest that extrasurface AWS data assimilation has slight but general positive impact on rainfall location forecasts. Surface AWS data also improve model results of near-surface variables. Radiosonde data assimilation improves the QPF skill by improving rainfall position accuracy and reducing rainfall overprediction. Compared with radar data, the overall impact of additional surface and radiosonde data is smaller and is reflected primarily in reducing rainfall overestimation. The assimilation of all radar, surface, and radiosonde data has a more positive impact on the forecast skill than the assimilation of either type of data only for the two rainfall events.
Multiple Intracranial Meningiomas: A Review of the Literature and a Case Report
Authors: Koech F. , Orege J. , Ndiangui F. , Macharia B. , Mbaruku N.
Published: August 2013

Multiple intracranial meningiomas are a condition where there is more than one meningioma in several intracranial locations in the same patient without signs of neurofibromatosis. Incidence varies from 1 to 10%. The prognosis of multiple intracranial meningioma does not differ from benign solitary meningiomas despite the multiplicity. However, the simultaneous occurrence of different grades of malignancy is observed in one-third of multiple meningiomas. Surgery remains the best option for treatment of symptomatic lesions. Our case review aims to present and discuss a 75-year-old female patient diagnosed with multiple intracranial meningiomas, describing their clinical, radiological, histological characteristics. It also highlights the fact that the patient had two tumours, underwent surgery, and so far has a good quality of life.
A Dermal Piercing Complicated byMycobacterium fortuitum
Authors: Patel Trisha , Scroggins-Markle Leslie , Kelly Brent
Published: August 2013

Background. Dermal piercings have recently become a fashion symbol. Common complications include hypertrophic scarring, rejection, local infection, contact allergy, and traumatic tearing. We report a rare case ofMycobacterium fortuitumfollowing a dermal piercing and discuss its medical implications and treatments.Case. A previously healthy 19-year-old woman presented complaining of erythema and edema at the site of a dermal piercing on the right fourth dorsal finger. She was treated with a 10-day course of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and one course of cephalexin by her primary care physician with incomplete resolution. The patient stated that she had been swimming at a local water park daily. A punch biopsy around the dermal stud was performed, and cultures with sensitivities revealedMycobacterium fortuitum. The patient was treated with clarithromycin and ciprofloxacin for two months receiving full resolution.Discussion.Mycobacterium fortuitumis an infrequent human pathogen. This organism is a Runyon group IV, rapidly growing nontuberculous mycobacteria, often found in water,soil, and dust. Treatment options vary due to the size of the lesion. Small lesions are typically excised, while larger lesions require treatment for 2–6 months with antibiotics. We recommend a high level of suspicion for atypical mycobacterial infections in a piercing resistant to other therapies.
Direct Comparison of the Safety and Efficacy of Ferric Carboxymaltose versus Iron Dextran in Patients with Iron Deficiency Anemia
Authors: Hussain Iftikhar , Bhoyroo Jessica , Butcher Angelia , Koch Todd A. , He Andy , Bregman David B.
Published: August 2013

Several intravenous iron complexes are available for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Iron dextran (DEX) is associated with an elevated risk of potentially serious anaphylactic reactions, whereas others must be administered in several small infusions to avoid labile iron reactions. Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is a nondextran intravenous iron which can be administered in high single doses. A randomized, open label, and multicenter comparison of FCM to DEX in adults with IDA and baseline hemoglobin of ≤11.0 g/dL was conducted. A total of 160 patients were in the safety population (FCMn=82; DEXn=78). Adverse events, including immune system disorders (0% in FCM versus 10.3% in DEX,P=0.003) and skin disorders (7.3% in FCM versus 24.4% in DEX,P=0.004), were less frequently observed in the FCM group. A greater portion of patients in the FCM group experienced a transient, asymptomatic decrease in phosphate compared to patients in the DEX group (8.5% in FCM versus 0% in DEX,P=0.014). In the FCM arm, the change in hemoglobin from baseline to the highest observed level was 2.8 g/dL, whereas the DEX arm displayed a change of 2.4 g/dL (P=0.20). Treatment of IDA with FCM resulted in fewer hypersensitivity-related reactions than DEX.
Management of Cosmetic Embarrassment Caused byMalasseziaspp. with Fruticose LichenCladiaUsing Phylogenetic Approach
Authors: Pandey Anand , Mishra Rohit K. , Tiwari Amit K. , Kumar Awadhesh , Bajaj A. K. , Dikshit Anupam
Published: August 2013

During anti-Malasseziascreening of plants by CLSI broth microdilution method,Cladia aggregata(Swartz) Nyl. (family Cladoniaceae), a fruticose lichen from Sikkim (northeast Himalayan region), has been found effective at minimum inhibitory concentrations (mg/mL) of 2.72, 0.63, and 1.28 against yeast-like fungi namely,M. furfur, M. globosaandM. sympodialis,respectively. These test pathogens are responsible for pityriasis versicolor (PV) and seborrheic dermatitis (SD) in humans. We tried to establish the reason for variable MICs against variousMalasseziaspp. using bioinformatical tools, thereby reducing the cost of the experimentation. This is the first report on anti-Malasseziaactivity ofC. aggregataand thus can serve as a potential source for the development of cosmaceuticals.
Cold Induced Sweating Syndrome with Urinary System Anomaly Association
Authors: Aljabari Salim , Howard Emily , Bell Todd , Vasylyeva Tetyana L.
Published: August 2013

Mutation in the cytokine receptor-like factor 1 and the cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CRLF1orCLCF1genes) phenotypically presents as cold induced sweating syndrome (CISS), which is a rare autosomal recessive disorder. The syndrome is characterized by paradoxical sweating in cold weather, dysmorphic facial features, musculoskeletal deformities, difficulty in feeding, and unexplained recurrent episodes of high-grade fever. We are presenting the first case of CISS with urinary system anomaly, which might relate to CRLF1/CLCF1 complex role in the embryonal nephrogenesis.
Completely Resected N0 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Prognostic Factors Affecting Long-Term Survival
Authors: Tantraworasin Apichat , Saeteng Somcharoen , Lertprasertsuke Nirush , Arayawudhikule Nuttapon , Kasemsarn Choosak , Patumanond Jayanton
Published: August 2013

Background. Although early stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has an excellent outcome and correlated with good long-term survival, up to 15 percent of patients still relapse postoperatively and die. This study is conducted to identify prognostic factors that may affect the long-term survival in completely resected N0 NSCLC. Methods. Medical records of 124 patients with completely resected N0 NSCLC were retrospectively reviewed. Prognostic factors affecting long-term survival were analyzed by the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards analysis. Results. Overall five-year survival rate was 48 percent. Multivariable analysis revealed stage of disease, tumor necrosis, tumor recurrence, brain metastasis, adrenal metastases, and skin metastases as significant prognostic factors affecting long-term survival. The hazard ratio (HR) of tumor necrosis, tumor recurrence, brain metastasis, adrenal metastases, and skin metastases was 2.0, 2.3, 7.6, 4.1, and 8.3, respectively, and all P values were less than 0.001. Conclusions. Our study shows stage of disease, tumor necrosis, tumor recurrence, brain metastasis, adrenal metastasis, and skin metastasis as the independent prognostic factors of long-term survival in pathological N0 NSCLC. Early stage NSCLC patients without nodal involvement or presented with tumor necrosis should benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy, and sites of metastasis could predict the long-term survival as described.
Photoconductive Multiplexing by ZnO:Zr:F Thin Solid Films
Authors: Torres-Torres C. , Castañeda L. , Torres-Martínez R.
Published: August 2013

Within this work, the nonlinear optical properties and electrical effects exhibited by zinc oxide thin films codoped with zirconium and fluorine are reported. The development of a simple photoconductive multiplexor system is proposed. The samples were prepared by the ultrasonic spraying technique (UST). Spectroscopic studies and a vectorial two-wave mixing method were carried out with a nanosecond Nd:YAG laser system at 532 nm. Experimental results indicate that after the zirconium and fluorine doping, a strong third-order optical nonlinearity can be developed in the ZnO films. The nonlinear optical response seems to be dominantly originated by a two-photon absorption closely related to a photoconductive phenomenon.
A Case of Pulmonary Tumor Thrombotic Microangiopathy Diagnosed by Transbronchial Lung Biopsy and Treated with Chemotherapy and Long-Term Oxygen and Anticoagulation Therapies
Authors: Kitamura Atsushi , Nishimura Naoki , Jinta Torahiko , Suda Rika , Yamano Yasuhiko , Ishikawa Genta , Tomishima Yutaka , Hamaoka Tsuyoshi , Suzuki Koyu , Chohnabayashi Naohiko
Published: August 2013

A 41-year-old woman, who underwent breast resection for cancer of the right breast and adjuvant chemotherapy 2 years ago, was admitted to our hospital due to shortness of breath upon exertion. High-resolution computed tomography of the chest showed small nodular opacities in the peribronchiolar area in both lungs, as well as mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy. A transbronchial lung biopsy revealed breast cancer metastasis and pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM). Treatment of PTTM is rarely reported due to the difficulty of antemortem diagnosis; however, the patient was effectively treated with chemotherapy and oxygen and anticoagulation therapies for 3 months.
Mechanical Behaviour and Fracture Mechanics of Praseodymium Modified Lead Titanate Ceramics Prepared by Solid-State Reaction Route
Authors: Singh Vishal , Suri Shivani , Bamzai K. K.
Published: August 2013

The praseodymium modified lead titanate ceramics with composition Pb1-xPrxTi0.96Fe0.02Mo0.02O3 where x = 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10 prepared by solid-state reaction technique were subjected to indentation induced hardness testing method. The indentations were induced in the applied load ranging from 0.245 N to 4.90 N. The microhardness varies nonlinearly with load and was best explained by the concept of Newtonian resistance pressure as proposed by Hays and Kendall’s law. Crack propagation, fracture toughness (Kc), brittleness index (Bi), and yield strength (σy) were studied to understand the effect of Pr content on various mechanical parameters. The load independent values were found to increase with the increase in praseodymium content.
The LMI Approach for Stabilizing of Linear Stochastic Systems
Authors: Ivanov Ivan
Published: August 2013

Stochastic linear systems subjected both to Markov jumps and to multiplicative white noise are considered. In order to stabilize such type of stochastic systems, the so-called set of generalized discrete-time algebraic Riccati equations has to be solved. The LMI approach for computing the stabilizing symmetric solution (which is in fact the equilibrium point) of this system is studied. We construct a new modification of the standard LMI approach, and we show how to apply the new modification. Computer realizations of all modifications are compared. Numerical experiments are given where the LMI modifications are numerically compared. Based on the experiments the main conclusion is that the new LMI modification is faster than the standard LMI approach.
An Experimental Novel Study:Angelica sinensisPrevents Epidural Fibrosis in Laminectomy Rats via Downregulation of Hydroxyproline, IL-6, and TGF-β1
Authors: Zhang Chao , Kong Xiaohong , Zhou Hengxing , Liu Chang , Zhao Xuechao , Zhou Xianhu , Su Yanhua , Sharma Hari S. , Feng Shiqing
Published: August 2013

With laminectomy being widely accepted as the treatment for lumbar disorders, epidural fibrosis (EF) is a common complication for both the patients and the surgeons alike. Currently, EF is thought to cause recurrent postoperative pain after laminectomy or after discectomy.Angelica sinensisis a traditional Chinese medicine which has shown anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antiproliferative properties. The object of this study was to investigate the effects ofAngelica sinensison the prevention of post-laminectomy EF formation in a rat model. A controlled double-blinded study was conducted in sixty healthy adult Wistar rats that underwent laminectomy at the L1-L2 levels. They were divided randomly into 3 groups according to the treatment method, with 20 in each group: (1)Angelica sinensistreatment group, (2) saline treatment group, and (3) sham group (laminectomy without treatment). All rats were euthanized humanely 4 weeks after laminectomy. The hydroxyproline content, Rydell score, vimentin cells density, fibroblasts density, inflammatory cells density, and inflammatory factors expressions all suggested better results inAngelica sinensisgroup than the other two groups. Topical application ofAngelica sinensiscould inhibit fibroblasts proliferation and TGF-β1 and IL-6 expressions and prevent epidural scar adhesion in postlaminectomy rat model.
Fluoride in the Serra Geral Aquifer System: Source Evaluation Using Stable Isotopes and Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Nanni Arthur Schmidt , Roisenberg Ari , de Hollanda Maria Helena Bezerra Maia , Marimon Maria Paula Casagrande , Viero Antonio Pedro , Scheibe Luiz Fernando
Published: August 2013

Groundwater with anomalous fluoride content and water mixture patterns were studied in the fractured Serra Geral Aquifer System, a basaltic to rhyolitic geological unit, using a principal component analysis interpretation of groundwater chemical data from 309 deep wells distributed in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Southern Brazil. A four-component model that explains 81% of the total variance in the Principal Component Analysis is suggested. Six hydrochemical groups were identified. δ18O and δ2H were analyzed in 28 Serra Geral Aquifer System samples in order to identify stable isotopes patterns and make comparisons with data from the Guarani Aquifer System and meteoric waters. The results demonstrated a complex water mixture between the Serra Geral Aquifer System and the Guarani Aquifer System, with meteoric recharge and ascending water infiltration through an intensive tectonic fracturing.