bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gross morphology and microstructure of type locality ossicles ofPsephophorus polygonusMeyer, 1847 (Testudines, Dermochelyidae)
Authors: DELFINO MASSIMO , SCHEYER TORSTEN M. , CHESI FRANCESCO , FLETCHER TAMARA , GEMEL RICHARD , MACDONALD STEWART , RABI MÁRTON , SALISBURY STEVEN W.
Published: February 2013

Psephophorus polygonusMeyer, 1847, the first fossil leatherback turtle to be named, was described on the basis of shell ossicles from the middle Miocene (MN6–7/8?) of Slovakia. The whereabouts of this material is uncertain but a slab on display at the Naturhistorisches Museum Wien is considered the neotype. We rediscovered further type locality ossicles in four European institutions, re-evaluated their gross morphology and described for the first time their microstructure by comparing them withDermochelys coriacea, the only living dermochelyid turtle. The gross morphology is congruent with that already described forP. polygonus, but with two significant exceptions: the ridged ossicles ofP. polygonusmay have a distinctly concave ventral surface as well as a tectiform shape in cross-section. They do not develop the external keel typical of many ossicles ofD. coriacea. Both ridged and non-ridged ossicles ofP. polygonusare characterized by compact diploe structures with an internal cortex consisting of a coarse fibrous meshwork, whereas the proportionately thinner ossicles ofD. coriaceatend to lose the internal cortex, and thus their diploe, during ontogeny. The ossicles of bothP. polygonusandD. coriaceadiffer from those of other lineages of amniotes whose carapace is composed of polygonal ossicles or platelets, in having growth centres situated at the plate centres just interior to the external bone surface and not within the cancellous core or closer to the internal compact layer. The new diagnosis ofP. polygonusallows us to preliminarily re-evaluate the taxonomy of some of thePsephophorus-like species. Despite some macro- and micromorphological differences, it seems likely thatPsephophoruswas as cosmopolitan as extantDermochelysand had a broadly similar ecology, with a possible difference concerning the dive depth.
Ovarian Reserve and Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) in Mothers of Dizygotic Twins
Authors: Van der Stroom Elizabeth M. C. , König Tamar E. , Vink Jacqueline M. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Lambalk Cornelis B.
Published: February 2013

This study aimed to explore if natural dizygotic (DZ) twinning is associated with earlier menopause and lower anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) values. We investigated if advanced biological reproductive aging, which can be responsible for the multiple follicle growth in familial twinning, is similar to mechanisms that occur in normal ovarian aging, reflected by earlier menopause in mothers of DZ twins and lower levels of AMH. A total of 16 mothers of DZ twins enrolled with the Netherlands Twin Register (average age at first assessment: 35.9 ± 3.0 years) and 14 control mothers (35.1 ± 3 years) took part in a prospective study. Fifteen years after entry into the study, which included follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) assessment, AMH was measured in stored serum samples and menopause status was evaluated. Average AMH levels were not significantly different between DZ twin mothers and controls (2.1 ± 2.4 μg/L vs. 1.9 ± 1.9 μg/L). Among the 16 mothers of twins, 7 had an elevated (FSH) value over 10 U/L at first assessment. Their AMH levels were lower than the nine twin mothers with normal FSH values: 0.6 ± 0.4 versus 3.4 ± 2.6 μg/L (p = .01). Of the mothers of twins, eight mothers had entered menopause at the second assessment compared with only one control mother (p = .07). Thus, slightly more DZ mothers were in menopause than the control mothers, although this difference was not significant. The subgroup of DZ twin mothers who had an increased FSH concentration 15 years ago had a limited ovarian reserve as reflected by lower AMH levels. These data indicate that advanced ovarian aging can be a feature in familial DZ twinning, particularly with elevated early follicular phase FSH.
Translationally invariant semi-classical electrodynamics of magnetic media to electric octopole-magnetic quadrupole order
Authors: Welter A. , Raab R. E. , de Lange O. L.
Published: February 2013

We consider semi-classical macroscopic electrodynamics that is translationally invariant (independent of the choice of an arbitrary, implicit set of coordinate origins for molecule-fixed axes) for linear, homogeneous, anisotropic media interacting with harmonic, plane electromagnetic waves. We extend a previous formulation at electric octopole-magnetic quadrupole order to include media comprising magnetic molecules (those possessing both time-even and time-odd properties). This requires two additional invariant, time-odd molecular polarizabilities. Overall, the electrodynamics depends on 10 invariant polarizabilities—5 time even (one each of electric dipole and electric quadrupole–magnetic dipole order, and three of electric octopole-magnetic quadrupole order) and 5 time odd (one, two, and two, respectively)—that are required for the description of linear transmission and reflection phenomena, and material constants. The two additional time-odd polarizabilities account for certain predicted effects, and one of them contributes to the inverse ac permeability of magnetic media. The results are presented in a form that is suitable for numerical computation.
Spatially resolved electrical parameters of silicon wafers and solar cells by contactless photoluminescence imaging
Authors: Hameiri Ziv , Chaturvedi Pooja
Published: February 2013

A contactless method to extract spatially resolved electrical parameters of silicon wafers and silicon solar cells is introduced. The method is based on photoluminescence imaging and can be applied throughout the solar cell fabrication process, even before junction formation. To validate the method, the parameters obtained by it are compared to the ones obtained by the well-established Suns-Voc measurement. Good agreement is obtained.
1/f noise analysis of replacement metal gate bulk p-type fin field effect transistor
Authors: Woo Lee Jae , ju Cho Moon , Simoen Eddy , Ritzenthaler Romain , Togo Mitsuhiro , Boccardi Guillaume , Mitard Jerome , Ragnarsson Lars-Åke , Chiarella Thomas , Veloso Anabela , Horiguchi Naoto , Thean Aaron , Groeseneken Guido
Published: February 2013

The origin of performance difference between gate-first (GF) and replacement metal gate (RMG) fin field effect transistors (FinFETs) is investigated. Although RMG technology has the advantage of low thermal-budget, a 1.5 times lower effective hole mobility is shown for the high-k last (HKL) FinFET. Based on low frequency noise analysis, it is shown that the carrier transport is due to the carrier number fluctuation with correlated mobility fluctuation from the interface states. For HKL FinFETs, about 10 times higher trap density is observed compared to GF and high-k first FinFETs, which is generated during the dummy gate oxide removal process.
Percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization combined with endoscopic ligation for the prevention of variceal rebleeding
Authors: Bian Shu , Tian Xiang Guo , Hu Jin Hua , Wang Guang Chuan , Zhang Chun Qing
Published: February 2013

Objective

To compare the efficiency of percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization (PTVE) plus endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) with EVL alone in the treatment of esophageal variceal bleeding.

Methods

Cirrhotic patients with recent esophageal variceal bleeding from January 2007 to December 2011 were collected and assigned to PTVE + EVL (N = 41) or EVL (N = 47) groups. We performed chart reviews and prospective follow‐up to determine variceal rebleeding, recurrence of varices and survival.

Results

During the follow‐up period, recurrence of esophageal varices (EV) occurred in 8 patients (19.5%) in the PTVE + EVL group and 23 (48.9%) in the EVL group (P = 0.004). The time to recurrence of EV was 9.2 ± 2.7 months and 4.9 ± 2.1 months, respectively. Three patients (7.3%) in the PTVE + EVL group and 12 (25.5%) in the EVL group experienced rebleeding from all sources (P = 0.023). One patient (2.4%) in the PTVE + EVL group and 7 (14.9%) in the EVL group experienced rebleeding from EV (P = 0.024). Multivariate Cox analysis indicated that the treatment method was the only predictor of rebleeding. There was no significant difference in the survival rate between the two groups.

Conclusion

With adequate and permanent obliteration of EV and their feeding veins, the combination of PTVE with cyanoacrylate and EVL is more effective than EVL alone in the prevention and treatment of EV recurrence and rebleeding.
Platinum‐Group Element Geochemical Characteristics of the Picrites and High‐Ti Basalts in the Binchuan Area, Yunnan Province
Authors: Mei BAI , Hong ZHONG , Weiguang ZHU , Zhongjie BAI , Defeng HE
Published: February 2013

The Binchuan area of Yunnan is located in the western part of the Emeishan large igneous province in the western margin of the Yangtze Block. In the present study, the Wuguiqing profile in thickness of about 1440 m is mainly composed of high‐Ti basalts, with minor picrites in the lower part and andesites, trachytes, and rhyolites in the upper part The picrites have relatively higher platinum‐group element (PGE) contents (ΣPGE=16.3–28.2 ppb), with high Cu/Zr and Pd/Zr ratios, and low S contents (5.03–16.9 ppm), indicating the parental magma is S‐unsaturated and generated by high degree of partial melting of the Emeishan large igneous province (ELIP) mantle source. The slightly high Cu/Pd ratios (11 000–24 000) relative to that of the primitive mantle suggest that 0.007% sulfides have been retained in the mantle source. The PGE contents of the high‐Ti basalts exhibit a wider range (ΣPGE=0.517–30.8 ppb). The samples in the middle and upper parts are depleted in PGE and have εNd (260 Ma) ratios ranging from −2.8 to −2.2, suggesting that crustal contamination of the parental magma during ascent triggered sulfur saturation and segregation of about 0.446%–0.554% sulfides, and the sulfide segregation process may also provide the ore‐forming material for the magmatic Cu‐Ni‐PGE sulfide deposits close to the studied basalts. The samples in this area show Pt‐Pd type primitive mantle‐normalized PGE patterns, and the Pd/Ir ratios are higher than that of the primitive mantle (Pd/Ir=1), indicating that the obvious differentiation between Ir‐group platinum‐group elements (IPGE) and Pd‐group platinum‐group elements (PPGE) are mainly controlled by olivine or chromites fractionation during magma evolution. The Pd/Pt ratios of most samples are higher than the average ratio of mantle (Pd/Pt=0.55), showing that the differentiation happened between Pt and Pd. The differentiation in picrites may be relevant to Pt hosted in discrete refractory Pt‐alloy phase in the mantle; whereas the differentiation in the high‐Ti basalts is probably associated with the fractionation of Fe‐Pt alloys, coprecipitating with Ir‐Ru‐Os alloys. Some high‐Ti basalt samples exhibit negative Ru anomalies, possibly due to removal of laurite collected by the early crystallized chromites.
Gene methylation and silencing of SOCS3 in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Molavi Ommoleila , Wang Peng , Zak Zoulika , Gelebart Pascal , Belch Andrew , Lai Raymond
Published: February 2013

The significance of loss of SOCS3, a negative regulator of signalling pathways including those of STAT3 and NF‐κB, was examined in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). The protein expression and gene methylation status of SOCS3 were detected using immunohistochemistry/Western blots and methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction, respectively. To evaluate its functional importance, SOCS3 was restored in two SOCS3‐negative MCL cell lines using a lentiviral vector. Loss of SOCS3 protein expression was found in 3/4 MCL cell lines and 18/33 (54·5%) tumours. SOCS3 was found consistently methylated in cell lines (3/4) and tumours (7/7) negative for SOCS3, and was unmethylated in all SOCS3‐positive cell line (1/1) and tumours (5/5) examined. Treatment of all three SOCS3‐negative cell lines with 2′‐deoxy‐5‐azacytidine restored SOCS3 expression. SOCS3 is biologically important in MCL, as lentiviral transfer of SOCS3 in SOCS3‐negative cell lines increased their apoptotic activity, downregulated nuclear factor (NF)‐κB‐p65, cyclin D1 (CCND1), BCL2 and BCL‐XL (BCL2L1), and substantially dampened interleukin 10‐induced STAT3 activation. In 19 patients aged ≤69 years at time of diagnosis, we found that those that carried SOCS3‐negative tumours showed a trend toward a worse outcome (P = 0·1, log‐rank).
Interspecific Differences in the Direct and Indirect Effects of Two Neotropical Hylid Tadpoles on Primary Producers and Zooplankton
Authors: Costa Zacharia J. , Vonesh James R.
Published: February 2013

Herbivores can both consume and facilitate primary producers with important consequences for community structure. How differences in herbivore foraging ecology alter the relative importance of such effects is not well understood, especially in tropical lentic systems. To address this issue, we manipulated the density of two herbivores with different foraging strategies to evaluate their effects on primary producers and other consumers. Specifically, we examined the effects of the tadpoles of two common Neotropical hylid frogs at two densities on conspecific growth, periphyton and phytoplankton, and zooplankton. We found that the tadpoles of the pantless treefrog, Dendropsophus ebraccatus, reduced periphyton and increased phytoplankton abundances, whereas they had no affect on zooplankton. The red‐eyed treefrog, Agalychnis callidryas, also reduced periphyton and increased phytoplankton, but to a greater extent, and they also had strong impacts on zooplankton by altering the composition, size structure, and total abundances of the zooplankton community. Differences between both species' impacts on these food webs were independent of tadpole biomass, as size‐selective filter feeding and nutrient cycling seems to drive the impacts of A. callidryas on phytoplankton and zooplankton, while the role of D. ebraccatus is more limited. Species level differences in the strength and direction of top‐down and bottom‐up effects on food webs suggest that the ecological roles of tadpoles may be diverse and important to aquatic communities.
Market thickness, sunk costs, productivity, and the outsourcing decision: an empirical analysis of manufacturing firms in France
Authors: Jabbour Liza
Published: February 2013

Abstract This paper presents an empirical analysis of outsourcing behaviour by French manufacturing industries. It focuses on the effects of market thickness, sunk costs, and the productivity of firms on the outsourcing decision. I estimate a dynamic probit model where outsourcing decision is linked to past outsourcing behaviour. The results show that outsourcing is a persistent strategy adopted by large firms and suggest the presence of significant sunk costs associated with outsourcing. The results also show that market thickness reduces search costs and enhances the establishment of outsourcing relationships.
National borders matter … where one draws the lines too
Authors: Lavallée Emmanuelle , Vicard Vincent
Published: February 2013

Abstract The fact that crossing a political border dramatically reduces trade flows has been widely documented in the literature. The increasing number of borders has surprisingly attracted much less attention. The number of independent countries has indeed risen from 72 in 1948 to 192 today. This paper estimates the effect of political disintegration since World War II on the measured growth in world trade. We first show that trade statistics should be considered carefully when assessing globalization over time, since the definition of trade partners varies over time. We document a sizeable resulting accounting artefact, which accounts for 17% of world trade in 2007. Second, based on a structural gravity equation, we estimate that since World War II political disintegration alone has raised measured international trade flows by 7% but decreased actual trade flows (including inter‐regional trade) by 2%.
On the role of job assignment in a comparison of education systems
Authors: Takii Katsuya , Tanaka Ryuichi
Published: February 2013

Abstract This paper re‐examines how differences in systems for financing education influence GDP by highlighting a neglected function of education policy: it affects the magnitude of gains from job assignment. When more productive jobs demand more skill, privately financed education can increase productivity gains from matching between jobs and skill by increasing the availability of highly educated people. This differs from the standard argument that publicly financed education increases the total amount of human capital by equalizing educational opportunities. It is shown that if job opportunities have large variations in productivity, education policy may face a serious efficiency–equity trade‐off.
Bevacizumab eye drops delay corneal epithelial wound healing and increase the stromal response to epithelial injury in rats
Authors: Kim Eun Chul , Ryu Hyun Wook , Lee Hee Jin , Kim Man Soo
Published: February 2013

Background

To evaluate the effects of bevacizumab eye drops on corneal epithelial wound healing and the stromal response after epithelial injury in rats.

Methods

We divided 160 Sprague‐Dawley male rats into two groups and de‐epithelized corneas with a microblade. Five percent bevacizumab (Avastin) and antibiotic (Cravit) eyedrops were treated four times daily in the bevacizumab group and antibiotic eye drops only in the control group. Wound area evaluation, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescent staining, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction were performed with rat corneas.

Results

The percentage of wound healing in the bevacizumab group was lower than in the control group at 24, 48 and 72 hours after epithelial debridement (P = 0.02, 0.01 and 0.01). Corneal matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (P = 0.02, 0.01 and 0.02), matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (P = 0.03, 0.01 and 0.01) and transforming growth factor‐β (P = 0.02, 0.02 and 0.01) proteins in the bevacizumab group were higher than control group at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Matrix metalloproteinase‐2, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, transforming growth factor‐b and a‐smooth muscle actin were strongly stained in the bevacizumab corneas compared with control corneas in immunofluorescent staining. Matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (P = 0.04, 0.03 and 0.04), matrix metalloproteinase‐ 9 (P = 0.03, 0.01 and 0.02), transforming growth factor‐b (P = 0.03, 0.03 and 0.03) and a‐smooth muscle actin (P = 0.04, 0.01 and 0.04) messenger RNA levels in the bevacizumab group were also highly expressed compared with the control group at 24, 48, and 72 hours.

Conclusions

The bevacizumab eye drops delay the wound healing and increase stromal response after corneal epithelial injury in rats.
The feasibility, acceptability and sustainability of nurse‐led chronic disease management in Australian general practice: The perspectives of key stakeholders
Authors: Hegney Desley G , Patterson Elizabeth , Eley Diann S , Mahomed Rosemary , Young Jacqui
Published: February 2013

This was the first Australian study investigating the acceptability, feasibility and sustainability of a nurse‐led model of chronic disease management in general practice. A concurrent mixed‐methods design was used within a 12‐month intervention of nurse‐led care in three general practices. Adult patients with type 2 diabetes, hypertension and/or stable ischaemic heart disease were randomized into nurse‐led or standard care. Semi‐structured interviews explored perceptions of key stakeholders towards this model including patients in the nurse‐led arm, and all practice staff pre‐ and posttrial. The data were thematically analysed and the emergent themes were: importance of time; collaborative relationships; nurse job satisfaction, confidence and competence; patient self‐management and choice. Our findings showed that nurses provided chronic disease management that was acceptable, feasible and sustainable. The collaborative involvement of doctors was intrinsic to patient acceptability of nurse‐led care that facilitated job satisfaction, and therefore retention and growth within this nursing speciality.
Antidiuretic effect of antimuscarinic agents in rat model depends on C‐fibre afferent nerves in the bladder
Authors: Watanabe Nozomu , Akino Hironobu , Kurokawa Tetsuyuki , Taga Minekatu , Yokokawa Ryusei , Tanase Kazuya , Nagase Keiko , Yokoyama Osamu
Published: February 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Antichollnergic agents are anticipated to diminish storage symptoms, as well as nocturia. Nevertheless, the effect of this treatment on polyuria related to nocturia is not clear. By subgroup analysis of the data set from a phase III clinical trial of antimuscarinic agent for OAB patients in Japan, imidafenacin was found to improve nocturia with a reduction in nocturnal polyuria.

This study adds the effects and underlying mechanism of antimuscarinic agents decreasing urine production through inhibition of C‐fibre in the bladder of water‐leaded rats.

Objective

To evaluate the effects and underlying mechanisms of antimuscarinic agents used to decrease in urine production in water‐loaded rats.

Subjects and Methods

Urine production was measured using a cystostomy catheter in female Sprague–Dawley rats every 2 h.

The effect of the antimuscarinic agents atropine, tolterodine and imidafenacin on urine production was investigated under water‐loaded conditions, which were induced by i.p. injection of 15 mL saline.

Blood samples were collected to determine the levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), aldosterone (ALD), atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) before, and 2 and 8 h after, antimuscarinic agent administration.

To induce desensitization of C‐fibre afferent nerves, resiniferatoxin (RTX)was injected s.c. or intravesically 2 days before experiments.

Results

Urine production increased and reached its maximum 2 h after 15 mL saline injection.

Imidafenacin and tolterodine decreased urine production in water‐loaded rats, but ADH, ALD, ANP and BNP levels were not different between imidafenacin‐treated and vehicle‐treated rats.

The inhibitory effect on urine production was not found in RTX‐treated rats.

Atropine did not reduce urine production.

Conclusion

These results suggest that antimuscarinic agents decrease urine volume through C‐fibres in the bladder; thus, antimuscarinics with inhibitory effects on C‐fibres could be beneficial for nocturia with nocturnal polyuria.
Singaporean Boys Constructing Global Literate Selves through Their Reading Practices In and Out of School
Authors: Ee Loh Chin
Published: February 2013

This article examines how threeSingaporean boys constructed their identities as global literate citizens through their reading practices in and out of school. An invisible network of resources contributed to their construction of a global literate identity relevant for local–global markets. The acquisition of a global literate identity as a form of intercultural capital is an unequal game in a neoliberal education system and social networks must be recognized as key nodes for literacy re‐vision. [reading, identity, globalization, class, cultural capital]
Novel des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin in serum for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Takahiro , Taniguchi Tatsuya , Sannomiya Katsutaka , Takenaka Hidetaka , Tomonari Tetsu , Okamoto Koichi , Kitamura Shinji , Okahisa Toshiya , Tamaki Katsuyoshi , Mikasa Hiroaki , Suzuki Sadao , Takayama Tetsuji
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Serum des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin (DCP) levels using a newly developed electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA, novel DCP [NX‐DCP]) were measured, and the utility of NX‐DCP and DCP/NX‐DCP ratio for the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was investigated. Antigenic differences in DCP between HCC and non‐HCC patients were elucidated.

Methods

The subjects included 170 patients with HCC, 61 with benign liver disease, 12 with obstructive jaundice, and 10 warfarin users. NX‐DCP was quantitated by sandwich ECLIA employing novel anti‐DCP monoclonal antibodies, P11 and P16. Conventional DCP was quantitated by standard ECLIA. DCP extracted from serum by affinity‐chromatography was analyzed by Western blotting.

Results

Conventional serum DCP levels were high in patients with HCC and obstructive jaundice, and in warfarin users, consistent with previous reports. Serum NX‐DCP levels were high only in warfarin users and obstructive jaundice patients (vitamin K‐deficient patients) but not in HCC patients. The DCP/NX‐DCP ratio was significantly higher in the HCC group than in the benign liver disease, obstructive jaundice, and warfarin groups (P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed significant superiority of the DCP/NX‐DCP ratio over conventional DCP as a marker for HCC diagnosis (P < 0.05). Western blot analysis showed that P11 and P16 reacted strongly with DCP from a warfarin user and an obstructive jaundice patient but very faintly with DCP from an HCC patient. Immunohistochemistry on HCC samples and autopsied normal liver tissues from warfarin users showed similar results.

Conclusions

The DCP/NX‐DCP ratio is very useful for diagnosing HCC. DCP in HCC patients is distinct from that in vitamin K‐deficient patients.
Post‐transplant biliary complications: An analysis from a predominantly living donor liver transplant center
Authors: Wadhawan Manav , Kumar Ajay , Gupta Subash , Goyal Neerav , Shandil Rajeev , Taneja Sunil , Sibal Anupam
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Biliary anastomosis is the Achilles' heel of liver transplant. The reported incidence of biliary complications is 5–15% after deceased donor liver transplantation, and 20–34% after right‐lobe live donor liver transplantation (LDLT). We report our experience from an LDLT program.

Methods

Between September 2006 and August 2010, 338 liver transplants were performed. Biliary reconstructions were done with an end‐to‐end choledochocholedochostomy in 307 cases. All recipients were monitored for any evidence of bile leak or stricture.

Results

Of 338 transplants performed during this time period, 65 patients had biliary complications (19%). Of these, 30 were biliary leaks, and 35 patients had biliary stricture. Four were cut surface leaks, which settled without any intervention. One patient had leak from primary hepaticojejunostomy, which settled on conservative management. Twenty‐five patients had anastomotic leaks, of which 17 underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and stenting; another eight underwent re‐exploration and hepaticojejunostomy. Forty‐five patients had biliary strictures. Of these, 10 patients had bile leak initially, followed by biliary stricture. Patients with a double duct anastomosis had a significantly higher risk of developing biliary complications compared with those with a single duct anastomosis. There was no statistically significant difference in survival between those with or without biliary complications.

Conclusions

Biliary complications are common after LDLT. Most leaks will subsequently form strictures. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is the first‐line treatment for biliary complications, with surgery required in a minority of cases. The incidence of biliary complications is higher in multiple duct anastomoses. Biliary complications are not associated with increased mortality.
Characterization of esophageal pressure‐flow abnormalities in patients with non‐obstructive dysphagia and normal manometry findings
Authors: Chen Chien‐Lin , Yi Chih‐Hsun , Liu Tso‐Tsai , Hsu Ching‐Sheng , Omari Taher I
Published: February 2013

Background and Aim

Patients with non‐obstructive dysphagia (NOD) report symptoms of impaired esophageal bolus transit without evidence of bolus stasis. In such patients, manometric investigation may diagnose esophageal motility disorders; however, many have normal motor patterns. We hypothesized that patients with NOD would demonstrate evidence of high flow‐resistance during bolus passage which in turn would relate to the reporting of bolus hold up perception.

Methods

Esophageal pressure‐impedance recordings of 5 mL liquid and viscous swallows from 18 NOD patients (11 male; 19–71 years) and 17 control subjects (9 male; 25–60 years) were analyzed. The relationship between intrabolus pressure and bolus flow timing in the esophagus was assessed using the pressure flow index (PFI). Bolus perception was assessed swallow by swallow using standardized descriptors.

Results

NOD patients were characterized by a higher PFI than controls. The PFI defined a pressure‐flow abnormality in all patients who appeared normal based on the assessment esophageal motor patterns and bolus clearance. The PFI was higher for individual swallows during which subjects reported perception of bolus passage.

Conclusion

Bolus flow‐resistance is higher in NOD patients compared with controls as well as higher in relation to perception of bolus transit, suggesting the presence of an esophageal motility disorder despite normal findings on conventional analysis.
Medical treatment improves social behavior in a primate endometriosis model (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Arnold C. , Einspanier A.
Published: February 2013

Background

As endometriosis is known to be very painful in humans, therapeutic studies should consider pain‐related aspects in experimental animals too. In a previous study, we found that common marmosets suffering from endometriosis show remarkable deviations in social behavior and cognitive tasks.

Methods

Female marmosets with endometriosis undergoing medical treatment were tested vs. two control groups (healthy and endometriosis monkeys without treatment) concerning behavioral aspects, cognitive skills, and mobility.

Results

The treated monkeys performed significant more social and self‐grooming, comfort behavior and were more active than the untreated endometriosis monkeys. The treated marmosets even returned to equal levels as their healthy conspecifics. Cognitive and mobility tests revealed no significant differences.

Conclusions

A beneficial effect of the applied endometriosis medication on behavioral impairments could be obtained. Including such measurements in therapeutic research contributes to aspects of animal welfare and pain‐relieving potential of the tested compound.
A Kaldor–Hicks–Goodwin–Tobin–Kalecki model of growth and distribution
Authors: Palley Thomas I.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a Kaldorian model of growth that incorporates both Kaldor's theory of income distribution and his endogenous technical progress function. Growth is driven by demand‐side forces that induce supply‐side accommodation. The model incorporates Hicksian induced innovation; Goodwin Marxist style labor conflict that affects wage bill division between workers and managers; Tobin inflation effects; and Kalecki monopoly power effects. Unlike the neo‐Kaleckian model, a Kaldorian economy operates at normal capacity utilization. Monopoly power plays a role as a barrier to entry rather than determining the functional distribution of income.
Characteristics of progressive supranuclear palsy presenting with corticobasal syndrome: a cortical variant
Authors: Ling H. , de Silva R. , Massey L. A. , Courtney R. , Hondhamuni G. , Bajaj N. , Lowe J. , Holton J. L. , Lees A. , Revesz T.
Published: February 2013

Aims

Since the first description of the classical presentation of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) in 1963, now known as Richardson's syndrome (PSP‐RS), several distinct clinical syndromes have been associated with PSP‐tau pathology. Like other neurodegenerative disorders, the severity and distribution of phosphorylated tau pathology are closely associated with the clinical heterogeneity of PSP variants. PSP with corticobasal syndrome presentation (PSP‐CBS) was reported to have more tau load in the mid‐frontal and inferior‐parietal cortices than in PSP‐RS. However, it is uncertain if differences exist in the distribution of tau pathology in other brain regions or if the overall tau load is increased in the brains of PSP‐CBS.

Methods

We sought to compare the clinical and pathological features of PSP‐CBS and PSP‐RS including quantitative assessment of tau load in 15 cortical, basal ganglia and cerebellar regions.

Results

In addition to the similar age of onset and disease duration, we demonstrated that the overall severity of tau pathology was the same between PSP‐CBS and PSP‐RS. We identified that there was a shift of tau burden towards the cortical regions away from the basal ganglia; supporting the notion that PSP‐CBS is a ‘cortical’ PSP variant. PSP‐CBS also had less severe neuronal loss in the dorsolateral and ventrolateral subregions of the substantia nigra and more severe microglial response in the corticospinal tract than in PSP‐RS; however, neuronal loss in subthalamic nucleus was equally severe in both groups.

Conclusions

A better understanding of the factors that influence the selective pathological vulnerability in different PSP variants will provide further insights into the neurodegenerative process underlying tauopathies.
Perforating Foreign Body Reaction to Unheated Liquid Contents of Lava Lamp
Authors: Thom Graham A. , Cheah Kim C.
Published: February 2013

A 21‐month‐old girl developed a local skin reaction after the unheated liquid contents of a broken lava lamp were in contact with her skin overnight. Several weeks later, small umbilicated erythematous papules containing central keratotic spines developed within the affected areas. Biopsy showed a granulomatous foreign body reaction with focal transepidermal elimination. Electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis of the tissue revealed carbon‐based material, consistent with substances reported to be present in lava lamp liquid.
Definite article usage across varieties of English
Authors: WAHID RIDWAN
Published: February 2013

This paper seeks to explore the extent of definite article usage variation in several varieties of English based on a classification of its usage types. An annotation scheme based on Hawkins and Prince was developed for this purpose. Using matching corpus data representing Inner Circle varieties and Outer Circle varieties, analysis was made on approximately 14,000 tokens ofthein private dialogue, academic writing and reportage. It was found that the different percentages of usage types in the three registers across the varieties were statistically significant. However there was no clear trend that could be observed in either group. The trends of the varieties, collectively or individually, were so unpredictable that in the end there was no evidence of an overall trend. Register, consistent with Biber et al.'s claim, was instead found to be a better predictor of the usage types ofthein the varieties. The classification of the varieties as either Inner or Outer Circle was therefore shown to be less influential in the quantitative variation of the morpheme than previously thought. Nevertheless, a subsequent qualitative analysis showed that the structural and situational categories in the Outer Circle did contain a number of marked usages ofthe, presenting themselves as the clearest cases of variation in the data.
A Study of Nonlinear Vibrations in a Frictionally Damped Turbine Bladed Disk With Comprehensive Modeling of Aerodynamic Effects
Authors: Petrov E. P. , Zachariadis Z.-I. , Beretta A. , Elliott R.
Published: February 2013

A new effective method for comprehensive modeling of gas flow effects on vibration of nonlinear vibration of bladed disks has been developed for a case when the effect of the gas flow on the mode shapes is significant. The method separates completely the structural dynamics calculations from the significantly more computationally expensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations while providing the high accuracy of modeling for aerodynamic effects. A comprehensive analysis of the forced response using the new method has been performed for a realistic turbine bladed disk with root-disk joints, tip, and under-platform dampers. The full chain of aerodynamic and structural calculations are performed: (i) determination of boundary conditions for CFD, (ii) CFD analysis, (iii) calculation of the aerodynamic characteristics required by the new method, and (iv) nonlinear forced response analysis using the modal aerodynamic influence matrix (MAIM). The efficiency of the friction damping devices has been studied and compared for several resonance frequencies and engine orders. Advantages of the method for aerodynamic effect modeling have been demonstrated.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Variant Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain Isolated in Central China
Authors: Wang Xiao-Meng , Niu Bei-Bei , Yan He , Gao Dong-Sheng , Huo Jin-Yao , Chen Lu , Chang Hong-Tao , Wang Chuan-qing , Zhao Jun
Published: February 2013

We report here the complete genome sequence of the porcine epidemic diarrhea virus strain CH/ZMDZY/11 isolated from central China. Our data, together with sequence data of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) isolates from other parts in China, will help to understand better the epidemiology and genetic diversity of PEDV field isolates in China.
Caruncular neurofibroma not associated with neurofibromatosis
Authors: Twaij Suhair , Shafi Aabgina , Marshall Terry , Jabir Mohamad
Published: February 2013

A rare case of caruncular neurofibroma in a patient who did not have neurofibromatosis. To remember peripheral nerve sheath tumours in the differential diagnosis of caruncular lesions. Excisional biopsy proved to be adequate treatment in our case.
FIERZ TRANSFORMATION FOR SU(2) AND SU(3) EIGHTH-ORDER FERMION INTERACTIONS
Authors: BRAGHIN FÁBIO L.
Published: February 2013

The Fierz transformations (Ft) for SU(2) and SU(3) operators in eighth-order fermion interactions are derived. These terms appear in expansions in terms of fermion currents of the following form: I1 I2 I3 I4 and also the composite [Formula: see text], where Γ(i) are either the SU(2) Pauli matrices or SU(3) Gell-Mann matrices. The calculation is carried out using the exchange projector operators.
Upcoming SIGWEB supported conferences
Authors: Samuel Hamman
Published: February 2013

The Special Interest Group on Hypertext and the Web, SIGWEB was created in 1989 to support the community participating in the annual ACM Hypertext Conference. Now in its third decade, SIGWEB has grown considerably and now sponsors five annual conferences of different sizes and covering a wide range of topics. SIGWEB supports several specialized conferences, short courses, and workshops, as well as the Annual Hypertext Conference. SIGWEB sponsored conferences focus on timely topics in applied and computational hypertext and Web disciplines and provide a place for members and the entire applied Hypermedia and Web community to exchange ideas and to meet with and expand their network of colleagues. In this article, we provide a brief overview of SIGWEB sponsored conferences, in addition to events that are in cooperation with SIGWEB.
Mechanisms of enhanced force production in lengthening (eccentric) muscle contractions
Authors: Herzog Walter
Published: February 2013

In contrast to isometric and shortening contractions, many observations made on actively lengthening muscles cannot be readily explained with the sliding filament and cross-bridge theory. Specifically, residual force enhancement, the persistent increase in force following active muscle lengthening, beyond what one would expect based on muscle length, has not been explained satisfactorily. Here, we summarize the experimental evidence on residual force enhancement, critically evaluate proposed mechanisms for the residual force enhancement, and propose a mechanism for residual force enhancement that explains all currently agreed upon experimental observations. The proposed mechanism is based on the engagement of the structural protein titin upon muscle activation and an increase in titin's resistance to active compared with passive stretching. This change in resistance from the passive to the active state is suggested to be based on 1) calcium binding by titin upon activation, 2) binding of titin to actin upon activation, and 3) as a consequence of titin-actin binding—a shift toward stiffer titin segments that are used in active compared with passive muscle elongation. Although there is some experimental evidence for the proposed mechanism, it must be stressed that much of the details proposed here remain unclear and should provide ample research opportunities for scientists in the future. Nevertheless, the proposed mechanism for residual force enhancement explains all basic findings in this area of research.
G-Protein–Coupled Receptor Kinase Interacting Protein-1 Mediates Intima Formation by Regulating Vascular Smooth Muscle Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Migration
Authors: Pang Jinjiang , Xu Xiangbin , Wang Xiaoqun , Majumder Syamantak , Wang Jing , Korshunov Vyacheslav A. , Berk Bradford C.
Published: February 2013

Objective—

The G-protein–coupled receptor kinase interacting protein-1 (GIT1) is a scaffold protein that is important for phospholipase Cγ and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling induced by angiotensin II and epidermal growth factor. Because GIT1 regulates signaling by several vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) growth factors, we hypothesized that intima formation would be inhibited by GIT1 depletion.

Approach and Results—

Complete carotid ligation was performed on GIT1 wild-type and knockout (KO) mice. We compared changes between GIT1 wild-type and KO mice in carotid vascular remodeling, VSMC proliferation, and apoptosis in vivo and in vitro. Our data demonstrated that GIT1 deficiency significantly decreased intima formation after carotid ligation as a result of both reduced VSMC proliferation and enhanced apoptosis. To confirm the effects of GIT1 in vitro, we performed proliferation and apoptosis assays in VSMC. In mouse aortic smooth muscle cells (MASM), we found that the growth rate and [3H]-thymidine incorporation of the GIT1 KO MASM were significantly decreased compared with the wild-type MASM. Cyclin D1, which is a key cell cycle regulator, was significantly decreased in GIT1 KO cells. Serum deprivation of GIT1 KO MASM increased apoptosis 3-fold compared with wild-type MASM. Treatment of rat aortic smooth muscle cells with GIT1 small interfering RNA impaired cell migration. Both phospholipase Cγ and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling were required for GIT1-dependent VSMC proliferation and migration, whereas only phospholipase Cγ was involved in GIT1-mediated VSMC apoptosis.

Conclusions—

GIT1 is a novel mediator of vascular remodeling by regulating VSMC proliferation, migration, and apoptosis through phospholipase Cγ and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways.
Endothelial Outgrowth Cells Shift Macrophage Phenotype and Improve Kidney Viability in Swine Renal Artery Stenosis
Authors: Eirin Alfonso , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Li Zilun , Ebrahimi Behzad , Zhang Xin , Tang Hui , Korsmo Michael J. , Chade Alejandro R. , Grande Joseph P. , Ward Christopher J. , Simari Robert D. , Lerman Amir , Textor Stephen C. , Lerman Lilach O.
Published: February 2013

Objective—

Endothelial outgrowth cells (EOC) decrease inflammation and improve endothelial repair. Inflammation aggravates kidney injury in renal artery stenosis (RAS), and may account for its persistence upon revascularization. We hypothesized that EOC would decrease inflammatory (M1) macrophages and improve renal recovery in RAS.

Approach and Results—

Pigs with 10 weeks of RAS were studied 4 weeks after percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA+stenting) or sham, with or without adjunct intrarenal delivery of autologous EOC (10×10
6
), and compared with similarly treated normal controls (n=7 each). Single-kidney function, microvascular and tissue remodeling, inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis were evaluated. Four weeks after PTRA, EOC were engrafted in injected RAS-kidneys. Stenotic-kidney glomerular filtration rate was restored in RAS+EOC, RAS+PTRA, and RAS+PTRA+EOC pigs, whereas stenotic-kidney blood flow and angiogenesis were improved and fibrosis attenuated only in EOC-treated pigs. Furthermore, EOC increased cell proliferation and decreased the ratio of M1 (inflammatory)/M2 (reparative) macrophages, as well as circulating levels and stenotic-kidney release of inflammatory cytokines. Cultured-EOC released microvesicles in vitro and induced phenotypic switch (M1-to-M2) in cultured monocytes, which was inhibited by vascular endothelial growth factor blockade. Finally, a single intrarenal injection of rh-vascular endothelial growth factor (0.05 μg/kg) in 7 additional RAS pigs also restored M1/M2 ratio 4 weeks later.

Conclusions—

Intrarenal infusion of EOC after PTRA induced a vascular endothelial growth factor–mediated attenuation in macrophages inflammatory phenotype, preserved microvascular architecture and function, and decreased inflammation and fibrosis in the stenotic kidney, suggesting a novel mechanism and therapeutic potential for adjunctive EOC delivery in experimental RAS to improve PTRA outcomes.
Stomping for Tunisia: Liberation, Identity and Dignity in Tunisian Rap Music
Authors: Ovshieva Ilyana
Published: February 2013

This analysis ventures into an examination of the role of hip hop as a medium for youthful resistance, mobilization and empowerment during the Tunisian revolution. As a subculture of resistance that never speaks down to people, hip hop serves as the ultimate tool for young revolutionary artists to reassert their dignity, hidden talent and self-understanding. The lyrics of El Général, Armada Bizerta, Ferid El Extranjero and Mos Anif epitomize the feelings of hopelessness and neglect that were endemic in Tunisian society and that propelled a nationwide rebellion. Bereft of voice in their political life and suffering from social neglect, these youths turned to underground culture to make their voices heard. Beneath the mobilizational and empowering capacities of hip hop, Tunisian rap also provides a terrain for young artists to engage in the debate about national identity, their place in the capitalist-dominated world and how they as youth oracles can mold what they perceive as the ‘true Tunisia’. Post-revolutionary Tunisian rap, rife with patriotic pathos and the potential for mobilization, developed against the backdrop of the rising sway of Islamist movements and the profound national introspection that followed the revolution. This paper sheds light on the rise of religious discourse in Tunisian rap and the evolving ideas of individual and collective dignity as well as on the emergence of counter-discourses and the ways in which they pertain to rappers’ endeavors to define Tunisia.