bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixing Insulin Glargine With Rapid-Acting Insulin: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Carroll Dana G. , Meade Lisa
Published: May 2013

Purpose. To review the literature examining the mixing of insulin glargine with rapid-acting insulin (RAI).

Methods. A literature search was conducted via PubMed and Medline (from 1948 to August 2012) using the search terms “diabetes,” “insulin glargine,” “short acting insulin,” “rapid acting insulin,” and “mixing.” Literature was limited to English-language articles reporting on human studies. Studies with data describing mixing glargine with any short-acting insulin or RAI were included. Four studies met inclusion criteria.

Results. Of the four studies assessing mixing glargine, one was a pharmacokinetic study. The other three assessed clinical outcomes in “real-world” settings. All of these studies were conducted in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes.

Two of the clinical outcomes studies did not report significant differences in A1C levels or preprandial, postprandial, or nocturnal blood glucose levels from mixing glargine and RAI. One of the clinical outcome studies reported improved blood glucose control (A1C and fasting blood glucose) with RAI mixed with glargine compared to RAI mixed with NPH insulin. There were no significant differences in hypoglycemia in any of the clinical outcome trials at any time measured.

Conclusion. Initial small clinical trials indicate that there are no significant changes in clinical outcomes (blood glucose levels, A1C levels, and hypoglycemia) when mixing glargine with RAI. Additional studies with larger patient populations and longer trial durations are needed before mixing glargine with RAI can be recommended on a routine basis in clinical practice.
Glucose Pattern Management Teaches Glycemia-Related Problem-Solving Skills in a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program
Authors: Powers Margaret A. , Davidson Janet , Bergenstal Richard M.
Published: May 2013

In Brief

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) involves both the performance of glucose tests and glucose pattern management (GPM) and is a tool patients with diabetes can use to achieve their glucose goals. Seeing the effects that increased activity or modified carbohydrate intake can have on lowering glucose levels is a powerful motivator for patients and reinforces successful behaviors. This article describes how SMBG (including GPM) is integrated into a diabetes self-management education program to teach problem-solving skills and empower patients.
Analysis of thermal stability after occurrence of absolute solute trapping in undercooled Co–Cu alloy
Authors: Yang X. Q. , Chen Z. , Yang W. , Liu J. T.
Published: May 2013

Thermal stability after recalescence of the single-phase supersaturated granular grains prepared in Co-15 at.%Cu immiscible alloy melt was investigated. As for undercooled Co–Cu alloy, a transition from dendritic to granular crystals occurred when ΔT ≥ ΔT∗, which was induced by an abrupt change in the dendritic growth mechanism from solute-controlled to purely thermally-controlled growth. However, the recalescence effect led to grain growth and solute segregation of trapped Cu to grain boundaries. On this basis, a thermo-kinetic model applicable for nano-scale materials was extended to the system of micro-scale undercooled Co–Cu alloy. The model showed close agreement with the experimental results. It is concluded that Cu atoms captured by solute trapping re-segregated to grain boundaries, which was responsible for the reduction in grain boundary energy and improvement in thermal stability in undercooled Co–Cu alloy.
PEMFC membrane electrode assembly degradation study based on its mechanical properties
Authors: Sridhar Ranjani Lalitha , Krishnan Ramya
Published: May 2013

The membrane electrode assembly determines the performance of the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. Degradation of the membrane electrode assembly has been the subject of recent research with impedance measurements, cyclic voltammetry measurements, scanning electron microscopy, tunneling electron microscopy as the techniques currently in use for characterization. This paper considers the membrane electrode assembly as a laminate and uses the study of mechanical properties as a tool for identification of delamination. An attempt has also been made to compare the changes in the mechanical properties obtained due to delamination with the results obtained from impedance measurement, cyclic voltammetry studies and performance in the fuel cell. In this study mechanical properties such as stress, strain and modulus have been measured and the decrease in modulus as a result of delamination has been characterized. It has been found that study of the mechanical properties of the membrane electrode assembly compliments the other techniques and can be used in the post-mortem analysis of causes for degradation.
Nitrogen deficiency and metal dopant induced sub-stoichiometry in titanium nitride thin films: a comparative study
Authors: Vasu Kuraganti , Kiran Mangalampalli Sri Rama Narasimha , Krishna Mamidipudi Ghanashyam , Padmanabhan Kuppuswamy Anantha
Published: May 2013

Sub-stoichiometric (nitrogen-deficient) and Nb-substituted (Ti1
–

y
Nb
y
N, 0 ≤ y ≤ 1) titanium nitride thin films were deposited by means of radio frequency magnetron sputtering on SiO2 and Si (311) substrates and compared. Thickness of TiN
x
films varied in the range 116–230 nm, while the value was constant, at 500 nm, for Ti1
–

y
Nb
y
N films. The sub-stoichiometric TiN
x
films deposited at room temperature are amorphous, independent of nitrogen partial pressure (in the range of 1.6 to 3.33 Pa). Annealing of the films at 600°C resulted in amorphous–crystalline transition only in the film deposited at 3.33 Pa, which crystallized into tetragonal ∊-Ti2N phase. The other films remained amorphous. The hardness and Young's modulus were highest for the film deposited at a nitrogen pressure of 3.33 Pa, viz., 5.9 GPa and 105 GPa respectively. In contrast, all as-deposited Nb substituted TiN (Ti1
–

y
Nb
y
N) films crystallized into rock salt structure with (111) orientation up to y = 0.77. The hardness and Young's modulus for Ti1
–

y
Nb
y
N films increased with increase in Nb concentration. The highest values of hardness and Young's modulus obtained were 29 GPa and 320 GPa respectively. This study shows that nitrogen deficient titanium nitrides are more difficult to crystallize and exhibit lower hardness than metal substituted nitrides.
Phase equilibria of the Zn–Al–Ti system at 370°C in the Zn-rich region
Authors: Xiao Lairong , Huang Jianfeng , Chen Yilei , Su Xuping , Wang Jianhua
Published: May 2013

The isothermal section at 370°C of the Zn–Al–Ti ternary system in the Zn-rich region was investigated experimentally using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The experimental results reveal that T + TiZn16 + TiZn8, T + TiZn16 + η-Zn, T + TiZn+ TiZn8, TiZn + TiZn3 + TiZn8, T + η-Zn + (α-Al), T + (α-Al) + TiAl3 and T + TiAl3 + TiAl2 are the seven three-phase equilibria in the Zn–Al–Ti system. T phase is a true ternary phase and it is in equilibrium with TiAl3, α-Al, η-Zn, TiZn, TiZn8 and TiZn16 at 370°C, respectively. The content of Zn in T phase varies from 12.8 to 56.8 at.%, Al varies from 17.7 to 59.5 at.% and Ti varies from 24.2 to 27.8 at.%. Ti2Al5 was not found in the Zn–Al–Ti system at 370°C.
Influence of different contents of Si and Cu on the solidification pathways of cast hypoeutectic Al-(5–9)Si-(1–4)Cu (wt.%) alloys
Authors: Djurdjevic Mile B. , Manasijevic Srecko , Odanovic Zoran , Radisa Radomir
Published: May 2013

A comprehensive understanding of the solidification process is of paramount importance for the control and prediction of actual casting characteristics. The present work presents the potential of cooling curve analysis to characterize the solidification path of a cast hypoeutectic series of Al–Si–Cu alloys. The aim of this work was to examine how variation in chemical composition of Si (from 5–9 wt.%) and Cu (from 1–4 wt.%) may affect characteristic solidification temperatures, their corresponding solid fraction, and thermal freezing ranges of the investigated alloys. All solidification parameters that have been calculated using cooling curve analysis show good correlation with the corresponding parameters calculated using commercial Pandat software. These parameters, either collected from the cooling curve analysis or calculated using Pandat software, can be easily incorporated into existing simulation software packages in order to improve their accuracy. In addition, cooling curve analysis can be used to estimate the effect of cooling rate on the above mentioned solidification parameters and used as additional input data for simulation.
Effect of Nano-Particles on Flow and Recovery of Polymer Nano-Composites in the Melt State
Authors: Hassanabadi H. M. , Rodrigue D.
Published: May 2013

The effect of nano-particle geometry on flow and recovery of polymer melts based on ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) was investigated. Two nano-particles, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and montmorillonite clay, were used with concentrations between 2.5 and 15% by weight. First, by using small amplitude oscillatory shear and transient step shear tests, the linear and non-linear response of the nano-composites was studied. Then, to examine the structure recovery, the same behavior was studied on pre-sheared samples. The linear and non-linear data revealed that the effect of nano-particles in material flow is more important for anisometric particles which can be attributed to their ability to form a fractal structure controlling the rheological properties while spherical particles are not able to form such networks. Recovery experiments revealed that while nano-composites containing spherical particles have relatively similar response in subsequent tests, the rheological properties decreased significantly for platelet particles. The recovery results were also interpreted based on a filler-network mechanism and the reduction of the nano effect for anisometric particles was related to the breakdown of the filler network. These observations were validated by morphological investigations.
Preparation and Characterization of CaCO3/High Density Polyethylene Composites with Various Shapes and Size of CaCO3
Authors: Shi X. , Wang J. , Cai X.
Published: May 2013

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) with various shapes and size was prepared using CaCl2 and Na2CO3 aqueous solutions containing various additives. High density polyethylene (HDPE)/4 wt% CaCO3 composites were prepared using a Haake Rotational Rheometer. The effects of the CaCO3 particle shapes and size on the thermal and mechanical properties were investigated and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and universal testing machine. The results show the addition of CaCO3 to HDPE can increase the crystallization and decrease the melting temperature and crystallization temperature. The tensile yield strength of the composites was higher than that of HDPE. Sphere-like CaCO3 is the best form in improving the thermal stability and cubic CaCO3 can cause negative effect to the toughness. The impact strength of the composites is significantly increased with decreasing CaCO3 particle size. SEM examination of the fractured surfaces of the composites shows that CaCO3 reacted in cavitations and “lance” functions which increase the impact strength of the HDPE/CaCO3 composites.
Processing of Thermally Stable Polymer Nanocomposites Reinforced Silicate Nanoparticles Based on N-trimellitylimido-L-phenyl alanine
Authors: Faghihi K. , Ghorbani S. , Hajibeygi M.
Published: May 2013

In this article two polymer/nanocomposite films with 5 and 10% silicate particles based on Poly(amide-imide) (PAI) from N-trimellitylimido-L-phenyl alanine were prepared via solution intercalation method through blending of organoclay with the PAI solution. Poly(amide-imide) was synthesized by the direct polycondensation reaction of N-trimellitylimido-L-phenyl alanine with 4,4′-diamino diphenyl ether in the presence of triphenyl phosphite (TPP), CaCl2 and pyridine (Py). Morphology and structure of the resulting PAI-nanocomposite films were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of clay dispersion and the interaction between clay and polymeric chains on the properties of nanocomposites films were investigated by using Uv-vis spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and water uptake measurements.
Nest Mass Variation over the Nesting Cycle in the Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula Hypoleuca)
Authors: Dubiec Anna , Mazgajski Tomasz D.
Published: May 2013

Nest parameters are most commonly measured only once during the nesting cycle. However, the condition of a nest is not constant but can substantially change from one nesting stage to the other, especially between incubation and nestling periods. These temporal changes may drive modifications in nest characteristics. We investigated the change in nest fresh mass between the early stage of incubation and shortly after the nestlings fledged and examined whether nest dry mass measured after the completion of the nesting cycle, which is commonly used in avian studies, is correlated with initial and final nest fresh mass in a small migratory passerine – the Pied Flycatcher. Nest fresh mass after the nestlings fledged constituted 180% of the initial fresh mass and the magnitude of mass increase was dependent on the number of fledglings and probably was partly associated with increasing water content in nesting material. Nest dry mass was strongly correlated with nest fresh mass measured both at the beginning of incubation and after the nestlings fledged, and also with the number of fledglings. Because in the Pied Flycatcher changes in the nest fresh mass are dependent on brood characteristics, in order to obtain the most reliable estimate of the initial nest fresh mass, we recommend weighing the nest shortly after its completion, taking care to make the measurement when the humidity of the habitat is rather low.
Bird Nests in Museum Collections: A Rich Resource for Research
Authors: Russell Douglas G. D. , Hansell Mike , Reilly Maggie
Published: May 2013

Data-rich birds’ nests in museum collections are relatively rarely used in ornithological research but can be valuable sources of scientific data. Materials, architecture, artefacts of utilisation and preserved nest fauna all combine to make museum nest collections potentially excellent behavioural archives. Over recent years, the Natural History Museum, Tring, and the Hunterian Museum, Glasgow, have cooperatively developed their respective collections to deliver a combined research resource that is international in scope, increasingly taxonomically representative and rich in time-series of nest specimens for British breeding species. Here we review the role of museum nest collections in furthering avian research and explore how new research techniques may potentially provide exciting opportunities. We also consider collection development and how collections might be better tailored to the needs of avian biology researchers.
Eggshell Conspicuousness is Related to Paternal Brood Patch Vascularisation in the American Thrashers
Authors: Hanley Daniel
Published: May 2013

Conspicuous blue-green egg colouration has been of interest to scientists and naturalists for more than a hundred years; however, the function of this trait has never been fully understood and has spurred extensive debate. The American thrashers exhibit great variation in egg colouration and patterning, and also show variation in male brood patch development. A recent hypothesis suggests that conspicuous egg colouration has evolved as the product of sexual conflict, where females may create conspicuous eggs to obtain greater amounts of male care, either in the form of male incubation or incubation assistance to prevent their eggs from being vulnerable to visually orienting predators and brood parasites. The American thrashers, a genus comprising of 10 species, exhibits striking variation in egg colouration and patterning, and also show variation in male brood patch development. By using avian visual modelling, I show that blue-green chroma of American thrasher eggs is positively related to their degree of conspicuousness against a nest background, while brown chroma is negatively related. Interestingly, the degree of male brood patch vascularisation is directly related to eggshell conspicuousness in American thrashers. I suggest that in the American thrashers, male brood patch vascularisation has evolved in response to conspicuous eggshell colouration to mitigate visual risks. Here I show that the degree of male brood patch vascularisation is directly related to relative paternal incubation effort in more than 300 North American breeding birds. This suggests that American thrasher species that possess both conspicuous eggs and brood patches, have most likely evolved to keep these conspicuous nest contents concealed, thereby reducing risk of visual detection. I suggest that these patterns are not unique to thrashers, but may extend to several avian families.
Specific Facets-Dominated Anatase TiO2: Fluorine-Mediated Synthesis and Photoactivity
Authors: Dozzi Maria , Selli Elena
Published: May 2013

Semiconductors crystal facet engineering has become an important strategy for properly tuning and optimizing both the physicochemical properties and the reactivity of photocatalysts. In this review, a concise survey of recent results obtained in the field of specific surface-oriented anatase TiO2 crystals preparation is presented. The attention is mainly focused on the fluorine-mediated hydrothermal and/or solvothermal processes employed for the synthesis and the assembly of anatase micro/nanostructures with dominant {001} facets. Their peculiar photocatalytic properties and potential applications are also presented, with a particular focus on photocatalysis-based environmental clean up and solar energy conversion applications. Finally, the most promising results obtained in the engineering of TiO2 anatase crystal facets obtained by employing alternative, possibly more environmentally friendly methods are critically compared.
Mechanistic Studies for Synthesis of Bis(indolyl)methanes: Pd-Catalyzed C–H Activation of Indole–Carboxylic Acids with Benzyl Alcohols in Water
Authors: Hikawa Hidemasa , Suzuki Hideharu , Yokoyama Yuusaku , Azumaya Isao
Published: May 2013

A method for synthesis without protecting groups of bis(indolyl)methanes by the (η3-benzyl)palladium system generated from a palladium catalyst and benzyl alcohol in water is developed. This domino protocol involves C3–H bond activation/benzylation of indole–carboxylic acids and benzylic C–H functionalization. Mechanistic studies indicate that the (η3-benzyl)palladium(II) complex, which is formed via oxidative addition of benzyl alcohol 2 to a Pd(0) species, activates the C–H bond at the C3-position of indole 1. Notably, water plays an important role in our catalytic system for sp3 C–O bond activation and stabilization of OH− by hydration for the smooth generation of the activated Pd(II) cation species, as well as for nucleophilic attack of indoles to hydrated benzyl alcohols.
Biodiversity Indicators Show Climate Change Will Alter Vegetation in Parks and Protected Areas
Authors: Holmes Keith , Nelson Trisalyn , Coops Nicholas , Wulder Michael
Published: May 2013

While multifaceted, a chief aim when designating parks and protected areas is to support the preservation of biological diversity, in part, through representing and conserving the full range of landscape conditions observed throughout a representative area. Parks and protected areas are, however, typically developed using a static interpretation of current biodiversity and landscape conditions. The observed and potential climate change impacts to biodiversity have created a need to also contemplate how parks and protected areas will respond to climate change and how these areas will represent the future range of landscape conditions. To assess change in biodiversity, broad-scale ecosystem information can be sourced from indirect remotely sensed indicators. Quantifying biodiversity through indirect indicators allows characterization of inter-relationships between climate and biodiversity. Such characterizations support the assessment of possible implications of climatic change, as the indicators can be generated using modeled forecasts of future climatic conditions. In this paper we model and map impacts of climate change on British Columbia’s parks and protected areas by quantifying change in a number of remotely sensed indicators of biodiversity. These indicators are based on the measured amount of incoming solar energy used by vegetation and map the overall annual energy utilization, variability (seasonality), and latent or baseline energy. We compare current conditions represented by parks and protected areas, to those forecasted in the year 2065. Our results indicate that parks and protected areas are forecasted to become more productive and less seasonal, due to increased vegetation productivity in higher elevation environments. While increased vegetation productivity may be beneficial for biodiversity overall, these changes will be particularly problematic for sensitive and specialist species. Future gaps in vegetation conditions protected by parks and protected areas are observed in the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains and the central interior region of British Columbia. Protected areas along the Coast Mountains, Vancouver Island highlands, and the Rocky Mountains show the greatest levels of change in the biodiversity indicators, including decreasing seasonality, with the Mountain Hemlock ecozone most at risk. Examples of large parks that are predicted to experience rapid change in vegetation characteristics include Strathcona, Garabaldi, and Kitlope. Our maps of future spatial distributions of indirect biodiversity indicators fill a gap in information products available for adaptive parks management and provide an opportunity for dialogue and further research on the use of future scenarios of landscape conditions in conservation planning.
A Unification between Dynamical System Theory and Thermodynamics Involving an Energy, Mass, and Entropy State Space Formalism
Authors: Haddad Wassim
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we combine the two universalisms of thermodynamics and dynamical systems theory to develop a dynamical system formalism for classical thermodynamics. Specifically, using a compartmental dynamical system energy flow model involving heat flow, work energy, and chemical reactions, we develop a state-space dynamical system model that captures the key aspects of thermodynamics, including its fundamental laws. In addition, we show that our thermodynamically consistent dynamical system model is globally semistable with system states converging to a state of temperature equipartition. Furthermore, in the presence of chemical reactions, we use the law of mass-action and the notion of chemical potential to show that the dynamic system states converge to a state of temperature equipartition and zero affinity corresponding to a state of chemical equilibrium.
Entanglement Structure in Expanding Universes
Authors: Nambu Yasusada
Published: May 2013

We investigate entanglement of a quantum field in de Sitter spacetime using a particle detector model. By considering the entanglement between two comoving detectors interacting with a scalar field, it is possible to detect the entanglement of the scalar field by swapping it to detectors. For the massless minimal scalar field, we find that the entanglement between the detectors cannot be detected when their physical separation exceeds the Hubble horizon scale. This behavior supports the appearance of the classical nature of quantum fluctuations generated during the inflationary era.
Activity Sectors and Energy Intensity: Decomposition Analysis and Policy Implications for European Countries (1991–2005)
Authors: Marrero Gustavo , Ramos-Real Francisco
Published: May 2013

This paper studies the change in Energy Intensity (EI) of the main economic activities in the EU15 countries, which represents approximately 45% of their final energy consumption. The purpose is, first, to measure the different patterns between the countries by establishing differentiated typologies, and second, to investigate those reasons that explain the different trends by country. To attain our objective, the changes in EI are decomposed into their structural and efficiency components for EU15 countries for the period 1991–2005. Results reveal four different typologies for this set of countries, and show the importance of identifying those economic activities which, due to their special impact, are key to reducing energy consumption. The changes in the structural component are due mainly to a transformative process in which the importance of industry in the economy as a whole drops, while the opposite holds for services. However, the changes in the efficiency component do not seem to be linked to this same process. It does not appear as though the services sector resulted in a more efficient use of final energy. We have detected significant evidence of convergence for EI in the service sector that would help to understand the recent worsen evolution of EI in this sector (and in overall EI) of Southern European countries. It can also be concluded that an analysis of global EI change without distinguishing among its components can result in misleading conclusions and in improperly conceived Energy Policies.
An Exonuclease III Protection-Based Electrochemical Method for Estrogen Receptor Assay
Authors: Zhu Sha , Cao Ya , Xu Yuanyuan , Yin Yongmei , Li Genxi
Published: May 2013

Estrogen receptor (ER), expressed in approximately 80% of primary breast cancer cells, has proven to be a valuable predictive factor of the disease. Herein, by making use of the specific binding of ER to its DNA response elements, we propose an Exonuclease III (Exo III) protection-based electrochemical method for detecting ER proteins. In this assay, the presence of ER can protect the duplex DNA molecules immobilized on an electrode surface from Exo III-catalyzed digestion, resulting in an increased electrochemical signal. Experimental results have revealed that the proposed method can allow the quantification of ER in the range of 0.5 to 100 nM with a satisfactory detection limit of 0.38 nM. Furthermore, since this approach can also be employed to detect ER directly in nuclear extracts, it may be of great use in biomedical applications in the future.
Synthesis of Zeolites Na-P1 from South African Coal Fly Ash: Effect of Impeller Design and Agitation
Authors: Mainganye Dakalo , Ojumu Tunde , Petrik Leslie
Published: May 2013

South African fly ash has been shown to be a useful feedstock for the synthesis of some zeolites. The present study focuses on the effect of impeller design and agitation rates on the synthesis of zeolite Na-P1 which are critical to the commercialization of this product. The effects of three impeller designs (4-flat blade, Anchor and Archimedes screw impellers) and three agitation speeds (150, 200 and 300 rpm) were investigated using a modified previously reported synthesis conditions; 48 hours of ageing at 47 °C and static hydrothermal treatment at 140 °C for 48 hours. The experimental results demonstrated that the phase purity of zeolite Na-P1 was strongly affected by the agitation rate and the type of impeller used during the ageing step of the synthesis process. Although zeolite Na-P1 was synthesized with a space time yield (STY) of 15 ± 0.4 kg d−1m−3and a product yield of 0.98±0.05 g zeolites/g fly ash for each impeller at different agitation speeds, zeolite formation was assessed to be fairly unsuccessful in some cases due the occurrence of undissolved mullite and/or the formation of impurities such as hydroxysodalite with the zeolitic product. This study also showed that a high crystalline zeolite Na-P1 can be synthesized from South African coal fly ash using a 4-flat blade impeller at an agitation rate of 200 rpm during the ageing step at 47 °C for 48 hours followed by static hydrothermal treatment at 140 °C for 48 hours.
Virtual Screening and Structure-Based Discovery of Indole Acylguanidines as Potent β-secretase (BACE1) Inhibitors
Authors: Zou Yiquan , Li Li , Chen Wuyan , Chen Tiantian , Ma Lanping , Wang Xin , Xiong Bing , Xu Yechun , Shen Jingkang
Published: May 2013

Proteolytic cleavage of amyloid precursor protein by β-secretase (BACE1) is a key step in generating the N-terminal of β-amyloid (Aβ), which further forms into amyloid plaques that are considered as the hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Inhibitors of BACE1 can reduce the levels of Aβ and thus have a therapeutic potential for treating the disease. We report here the identification of a series of small molecules bearing an indole acylguanidine core structure as potent BACE1 inhibitors. The initial weak fragment was discovered by virtual screening, and followed with a hit-to-lead optimization. With the aid of co-crystal structures of two discovered inhibitors (compounds 19 and 25) with BACE1, we explored the SAR around the indole and aryl groups, and obtained several BACE1 inhibitors about 1,000-fold more potent than the initial fragment hit. Accompanying the lead optimization, a previously under-explored sub-site opposite the flap loop was redefined as a potential binding site for later BACE1 inhibitor design.
Anti-Infective Potential of Marine Invertebrates and Seaweeds from the Brazilian Coast
Authors: Bianco Éverson , De Oliveira Simone , Rigotto Caroline , Tonini Maiko , Da Rosa Guimarães Tatiana , Bittencourt Francine , Gouvêa Lidiane , Aresi Cassandra , De Almeida Maria , Moritz Maria , Martins Cintia , Scherner Fernando , Carraro João , Horta Paulo , Reginatto Flávio , Steindel Mario , Simões Cláudia , Schenkel Eloir
Published: May 2013

This manuscript describes the evaluation of anti-infective potential in vitro of organic extracts from nine sponges, one ascidian, two octocorals, one bryozoan, and 27 seaweed species collected along the Brazilian coast. Antimicrobial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) and Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) by the disk diffusion method. Antiprotozoal activity was evaluated against Leishmania braziliensis (MHOM/BR/96/LSC96-H3) promastigotes and Trypanosoma cruzi (MHOM/BR/00/Y) epimastigotes by MTT assay. Activity against intracellular amastigotes of T. cruzi and L. brasiliensis in murine macrophages was also evaluated. Antiviral activity was tested against Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1, KOS strain) by the plaque number reduction assay (IC50). Cytotoxicity on VERO cells was evaluated by the MTT assay (CC50). The results were expressed as SI = CC50/IC50. The most promising antimicrobial results were obtained against S. aureus and C. albicans with Dragmacidon reticulatum. Among the seaweeds, only Osmundaria obtusiloba showed moderate activity against P. aeruginosa. Concerning antiprotozoal activity, Bugula neritina, Carijoa riseii, Dragmaxia anomala and Haliclona (Halichoclona) sp. showed the most interesting results, mainly against extracellular promastigote forms of L. braziliensis (66, 35.9, 97.2, and 43.6% inhibition, respectively). Moreover, six species of seaweeds Anadyomene saldanhae, Caulerpa cupressoides, Canistrocarpus cervicornis, Dictyota sp., Ochtodes secundiramea, and Padina sp. showed promising results against L. braziliensis (87.9, 51.7, 85.9, 93.3, 99.7, and 80.9% inhibition, respectively), and only Dictyota sp. was effective against T. cruzi (60.4% inhibition). Finally, the antiherpes activity was also evaluated, with Haliclona (Halichoclona) sp. and Petromica citrina showing the best results (SI = 11.9 and SI > 5, respectively). All the active extracts deserve special attention in further studies to chemically characterize the bioactive compounds, and to perform more refined biological assays.
3D Preoperative Planning in the ER with OsiriX®: When There is No Time for Neuronavigation
Authors: Mandel Mauricio , Amorim Robson , Paiva Wellingson , Prudente Marcelo , Teixeira Manoel , Andrade Almir
Published: May 2013

The evaluation of patients in the emergency room department (ER) through more accurate imaging methods such as computed tomography (CT) has revolutionized their assistance in the early 80s. However, despite technical improvements seen during the last decade, surgical planning in the ER has not followed the development of image acquisition methods. The authors present their experience with DICOM image processing as a navigation method in the ER. The authors present 18 patients treated in the Emergency Department of the Hospital das Clínicas of the University of Sao Paulo. All patients were submitted to volumetric CT. We present patients with epidural hematomas, acute/subacute subdural hematomas and contusional hematomas. Using a specific program to analyze images in DICOM format (OsiriX®), the authors performed the appropriate surgical planning. The use of 3D surgical planning made it possible to perform procedures more accurately and less invasively, enabling better postoperative outcomes. All sorts of neurosurgical emergency pathologies can be treated appropriately with no waste of time. The three-dimensional processing of images in the preoperative evaluation is easy and possible even within the emergency care. It should be used as a tool to reduce the surgical trauma and it may dispense methods of navigation in many cases.
Using a Fiber Loop and Fiber Bragg Grating as a Fiber Optic Sensor to Simultaneously Measure Temperature and Displacement
Authors: Chang Yao-Tang , Yen Chih-Ta , Wu Yue-Shiun , Cheng Hsu-Chih
Published: May 2013

This study integrated a fiber loop manufactured by using commercial fiber (SMF-28, Corning) and a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) to form a fiber optic sensor that could simultaneously measure displacement and temperature. The fiber loop was placed in a thermoelectric cooling module with FBG affixed to the module, and, consequently, the center wavelength displacement of FBG was limited by only the effects of temperature change. Displacement and temperature were determined by measuring changes in the transmission of optical power and shifts in Bragg wavelength. This study provides a simple and economical method to measure displacement and temperature simultaneously.
The Pragmatic Collective Interest as the Product of Civic Deliberation: The Case of Pesticide Management in Belgium
Authors: Mélard François , Mormont Marc
Published: May 2013

Through the issue of pesticide management in Belgium, this article offers an empirical and conceptual grasp on what Ulrich Beck called the second-order reflexive modernity; that which is exercised among citizens when they are confronted with threatening and uncertain situations. To achieve this, we use two case studies of two public policy instruments, which we offer to the public for discussion: food product labelling, and the modelling of toxic effects linked to pesticide use. To this end, we organised two focus groups designed to encourage discussion, composed of citizens/practitioners. The results obtained plead in favour of a collective deconstruction-reconstruction of these tools and can lead to what we propose calling a “pragmatic collective interest.” This “pragmatic collective interest” can take the form of a new set-up or new associations that enable the coexistence of conflicting propositions and points of view, and a suspension of efforts to hierarchize causes and required solutions.
Use of Y-shaped TPLO plates for the stabilization of supracotyloid ilial fractures in four dogs and one cat
Authors: Chou P. , Runyon C. , Bailey T. , Béraud R.
Published: May 2013

Objectives: To describe the use of Y-shaped tibia plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) plates for the stabilization of supracotyloid ilial fracture in four dogs and one cat.

Methods: Clinical cases with supracotyloid ilial fracture that were repaired with a Y-shaped TPLO plate were retrospectively reviewed. Fracture type, concurrent injuries, fracture management, radiographic outcome and clinical recovery were documented.

Results: All fractures were reduced and a Y-shaped TPLO plate was applied with one short-term complication. Four fractures healed in original alignment. Screw loosening and malunion was documented in one patient at the six week follow-up examination. All patients had good to excellent limb function in the long-term follow-up.

Clinical significance: The use of TPLO Y-shaped plates for supracotyloid ilial fractures allows good fracture reduction and fixation with a minimal approach and few postoperative complications.
Magnetic resonance imaging of plantar soft tissue structures of the tarsus and proximal metatarsus in foals and adult horses
Authors: Ludewig E. , Brehm W. , Budras K.-D. , Winter K. , Edinger J. , Lempe-Troillet A.
Published: May 2013

Objectives: The object of this study was to describe previously defined soft tissue structures by using spin and gradient sequences in a 0.5 Tesla magnetic resonance system in order to improve the characterisation of tendon and ligaments at the plantar region of the equine tarsus and metatarsus while considering possible age-related variations.

Methods: Cadaveric hindlimbs from twenty-two Warmblood horses with an age range from one month to twenty-five years were examined in spin and gradient echoes. The proximal suspensory ligament from six limbs was dissected to assign the signal intensities histologically. For statistical analysis, horses were divided into two groups (≤3 years and >3 years) for evaluating signal intensity and homogeneity of the plantar tendons and ligaments.

Results: Focal increase of the signal intensity within the deep digital flexor tendon was significantly more present in horses older than three years. Signal alterations of the long plantar ligament were seen without a significant dependency to age. The accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon could not be visualized on all images within the region of interest. The morphology of the proximal suspensory ligament was not affected by age-related changes.

Clinical relevance: Spin and gradient echoes in MRI were suitable to identify and assess soft tissue structures at the plantar aspect of the equine tarsus and proximal metatarsus. Age-related appearance must be considered when interpreting magnetic resonance images.
Radiographic changes of the pelvis in Labrador and Golden Retrievers after juvenile pubic symphysiodesis
Authors: Boiocchi S. , Vezzoni L. , Bronzo V. , Rossi F. , Vezzoni A.
Published: May 2013

Objectives: The hypothesis of this study was that juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) results in pelvic changes that can be identified radiographically in adult dogs.

Methods: The medical records at the Clinica Veterinaria Vezzoni were searched for standard ventro-dorsal views of the pelvis of adult Labrador and Golden Retrievers that had undergone JPS or had not undergone surgery. The objective assessment of radiographs included the analysis of various pelvic measurements. Subjective evaluation of radiographs was undertaken by 18 specialists and 21 general practitioners and was based on five criteria relating to 1) the acetabular fossae, 2) the pubic symphysis, 3) the margin of the cranial pubic area, 4) the pubic rami, and 5) the obturator foramen.

Results: The radiographs of 42 Labrador Retrievers and 16 Golden Retrievers were evaluated. The most useful criteria were the radiographic measurement of the shape of the obturator foramen and two different ratios of length to width of the pubic rami; these values were significantly smaller in dogs after JPS. The pelvic canal width was the same in both groups. All objective measurements were repeatable within and between evaluators. The most reliable subjective criterion was number 4, followed by number 5 in Golden Retrievers and by 2 in Labrador Retrievers.

Conclusion: Our objective and subjective evaluations were simple and yielded useful and repeatable results. There was no significant difference between general practitioners and specialists with regard to subjective evaluation, which indicates that these evaluation criteria can be used by small animal clinicians after minimal training.
Paracrine Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy: Current Status and Perspectives
Authors: Liang Xiaoting , Ding Yue , Zhang Yuelin , Tse Hung-Fat , Lian Qizhou
Published: May 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are one of a few stem cell types to be applied in clinical practice as therapeutic agents for immunomodulation and ischemic tissue repair. In addition to their multipotent differentiation potential, a strong paracrine capacity has been proposed as the principal mechanism that contributes to tissue repair. Apart from cytokine/chemokine secretion, MSCs also display a strong capacity for mitochondrial transfer and microvesicle (exosomes) secretion in response to injury with subsequent promotion of tissue regeneration. These unique properties of MSCs make them an invaluable cell type to repair damaged tissues/organs. Although MSCs offer great promise in the treatment of degenerative diseases and inflammatory disorders, there are still many challenges to overcome prior to their widespread clinical application. Particularly, their in-depth paracrine mechanisms remain a matter for debate and exploration. This review will highlight the discovery of the paracrine mechanism of MSCs, regulation of the paracrine biology of MSCs, important paracrine factors of MSCs in modulation of tissue repair, exosome and mitochondrial transfer for tissue repair, and the future perspective for MSC-based therapy.
3D-printed devices for continuous-flow organic chemistry
Authors: Dragone Vincenza , Sans Victor , Rosnes Mali H , Kitson Philip J , Cronin Leroy
Published: May 2013

We present a study in which the versatility of 3D-printing is combined with the processing advantages of flow chemistry for the synthesis of organic compounds. Robust and inexpensive 3D-printed reactionware devices are easily connected using standard fittings resulting in complex, custom-made flow systems, including multiple reactors in a series with in-line, real-time analysis using an ATR-IR flow cell. As a proof of concept, we utilized two types of organic reactions, imine syntheses and imine reductions, to show how different reactor configurations and substrates give different products.
HLA-G 3′ Untranslated Region Polymorphisms Are Associated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in 2 Brazilian Populations
Authors: Lucena-Silva Norma , de Souza Veridiana Sales Barbosa , Gomes Renan Garcia , Fantinatti Alex , Muniz Yara Costa Netto , de Albuquerque Rafael Sales , Monteiro Alessandra Luna Ramos , Diniz George Tadeu Nunes , Coelho Maria Rosângela Cunha Duarte , Mendes-Junior Celso Teixeira , Castelli Erick da Cruz , Donadi Eduardo Antônio
Published: May 2013

Objective.

HLA-G has well recognized tolerogenic properties in physiological and nonphysiological conditions. The 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of theHLA-Ggene has at least 3 polymorphic sites (14-bpINS/DEL, +3142C/G, and +3196C/G) described as associated with posttranscriptional influence on messenger RNA production; however, only the 14-bpINS/DEL and +3142C/G sites have been studied in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods.

We investigated theHLA-G3′UTR polymorphic sites (14-bpINS/DEL, +3003C/T, +3010C/G, +3027A/C, +3035C/T, +3142C/G, +3187A/G, and +3196C/G) in 190 Brazilian patients with SLE and 282 healthy individuals in allele, genotype, and haplotype analyses. A multiple logistic regression model was used to assess the association of the disease features with theHLA-G3′UTR haplotypes.

Results.

Increased frequencies were observed of the 14-bpINS (p = 0.053), +3010C (p = 0.008), +3142G (p = 0.006), and +3187A (p = 0.013) alleles, and increased frequencies of the 14-bpINS-INS (p = 0.094), +3010 C-C (p = 0.033), +3142 G-G (p = 0.021), and +3187 A-A (p = 0.035) genotypes. After Bonferroni correction, only the +3142G (p = 0.05) and +3010C (p = 0.06) alleles were overrepresented in SLE patients. The UTR-1 haplotype (14-bpDEL/+3003T/+3010G/+3027C/+3035C/+3142C/+3187G/+3196C) was underrepresented in SLE (pcorr= 0.035).

Conclusion.

These results indicate thatHLA-G3′UTR polymorphic sites, particularly +3142G and +3010C alleles, were associated with SLE susceptibility, whereas UTR-1 was associated with protection against development of SLE.
Follistatin-like Protein 1 and the Ferritin/Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Ratio Are Potential Biomarkers for Dysregulated Gene Expression and Macrophage Activation Syndrome in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Gorelik Mark , Fall Ndate , Altaye Mekibib , Barnes Michael G. , Thompson Susan D. , Grom Alexei A. , Hirsch Raphael
Published: May 2013

Objective.

Follistatin-like protein 1 (FSTL-1) is a secreted glycoprotein overexpressed in certain inflammatory diseases. Our objective was to correlate FSTL-1 levels with gene expression, known biomarkers, and measures of disease activity in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), including macrophage activation syndrome (MAS).

Methods.

FSTL-1 serum levels were measured by ELISA in 28 patients with sJIA, including 7 patients who developed MAS, and 30 healthy controls. Levels were correlated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), ferritin, and soluble interleukin-2 receptor-α (sIL-2Rα). Gene expression based on FSTL-1 levels was analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Results.

Serum levels of FSTL-1 were elevated at time of presentation of sJIA (mean 200.7 ng/ml) and decreased to normal (mean 133.7 ng/ml) over 24 months (p < 0.01). FSTL-1 levels were markedly elevated during acute MAS (mean 279.8 ng/ml) and decreased to normal following treatment (p < 0.001). FSTL-1 levels correlated with serum markers of inflammation, including sIL-2Rα and ferritin. Ferritin/ESR ratio was superior to ferritin, sIL-2Rα, and FSTL-1 in discriminating MAS from new-onset sJIA. PBMC from patients with FSTL-1 levels > 200 ng/ml showed altered expression of genes related to innate immunity, erythropoiesis, and natural killer cell dysfunction. Two patients with the highest FSTL-1 levels at disease onset (> 300 ng/ml) ultimately developed MAS.

Conclusion.

Elevated pretreatment serum FSTL-1 levels in sJIA are associated with dysregulated gene expression suggestive of occult MAS, and may have utility in predicting progression to overt MAS. Ferritin/ESR ratio may be superior to ferritin alone in discriminating overt MAS from new-onset sJIA.