bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of Endogenous Brain‐Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis Activity
Authors: Naert G. , Zussy C. , Tran Van Ba C. , Chevallier N. , Tang Y.‐P. , Maurice T. , Givalois L.
Published: September 2015

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) appears to be highly involved in hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis regulation during adulthood, playing an important role in homeostasis maintenance. The present study aimed to determine the involvement of BDNF in HPA axis activity under basal and stress conditions via partial inhibition of this endogenous neurotrophin. Experiments were conducted in rats and mice with two complementary approaches: (i) BDNF knockdown with stereotaxic delivery of BDNF‐specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) into the lateral ventricle of adult male rats and (ii) genetically induced knockdown (KD) of BDNF expression specifically in the central nervous system during the first ontogenesis in mice (KD mice). Delivery of siRNA in the rat brain decreased BDNF levels in the hippocampus (−31%) and hypothalamus (−35%) but not in the amygdala, frontal cortex and pituitary. In addition, siRNA induced no change of the basal HPA axis activity. BDNF siRNA rats exhibited decreased BDNF levels and concomitant altered adrenocortoctrophic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone responses to restraint stress, suggesting the involvement of BDNF in the HPA axis adaptive response to stress. In KD mice, BDNF levels in the hippocampus and hypothalamus were decreased by 20% in heterozygous and by 60% in homozygous animals compared to wild‐type littermates. Although, in heterozygous KD mice, no significant change was observed in the basal levels of plasma ACTH and corticosterone, both hormones were significantly increased in homozygous KD mice, demonstrating that robust cerebral BDNF inhibition (60%) is necessary to affect basal HPA axis activity. All of these results in both rats and mice demonstrate the involvement and importance of a robust endogenous pool of BDNF in basal HPA axis regulation and the pivotal function of de novo BDNF synthesis in the establishment of an adapted response to stress.
THE LOWER CAMBRIAN NIUTITANG FORMATION AT YANGTIAO (GUIZHOU, SW CHINA): ORGANIC MATTER ENRICHMENT, SOURCE ROCK POTENTIAL, AND HYDROTHERMAL INFLUENCES
Authors: Liu Z. H. , Zhuang X. G. , Teng G. E. , Xie X. M. , Yin L. M. , Bian L. Z. , Feng Q. L. , Algeo T. J.
Published: September 2015

Organic‐rich marine black shales and cherts of latest Proterozoic to earliest Cambrian age are widespread in South China. In this study, 70 samples of the Early Cambrian basal Niutitang Formation from Yangtiao (Guizhou Province, SW China) were analysed using organic and inorganic elemental and isotopic methods in order to characterize the depositional environment and source‐rock potential of these lithologies. The sediments were deposited in a deep‐shelf environment subject to recurring anoxia, and contain organic material dominated by sapropelic kerogen derived from acanthomorphic acritarchs. The organic richness of the shales (average TOC = 6.7%) is due to a combination of high primary productivity (as shown by biogenic Ba, Cu, Ni and Zn) and enhanced organic preservation (as shown by correlation of TOC with more intensely reducing conditions). The chert intervals are interpreted to have been deposited during phases of relatively intense hydrothermal activity, when silica‐rich hydrothermal fluids were released into the marine water column. Shale intervals were deposited during phases of weak hydrothermal activity and therefore contain little silica of hydrothermal origin. Evidence of hydrothermal activity during chert formation may reflect watermass circulation from deep rift zones. Analysis of the organic‐rich facies of the basal Niutitang Formation demonstrates its considerable hydrocarbon‐generating potential as a function of its organic richness and source‐rock quality parameters (e.g. S1+S2). Intense tectonic deformation of the South China Craton during the Mesozoic has potentially caused leakage of early formed hydrocarbon accumulations, however, resulting in risks for hydrocarbon exploration in the study area.
Hepatitis C virus coinfection independently increases the risk of cardiovascular disease in HIV‐positive patients
Authors: Fernández‐Montero J. V. , Barreiro P. , de Mendoza C. , Labarga P. , Soriano V.
Published: September 2015

Patients infected with HIV are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease despite successful antiretroviral therapy. Likewise, chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with extrahepatic complications, including cardiovascular disease. However the risk of cardiovascular disease has not been formally examined in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients. A retrospective study was carried out to assess the influence of HCV coinfection on the risk of cardiovascular events in a large cohort of HIV‐infected patients recruited since year 2004. A composite event of cardiovascular disease was used as an endpoint, including myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, stroke or death due to any of them. A total of 1136 patients (567 HIV‐monoinfected, 70 HCV‐monoinfected and 499 HIV/HCV‐coinfected) were analysed. Mean age was 42.7 years, 79% were males, and 46% were former injection drug users. Over a mean follow‐up of 79.4 ± 21 months, 3 patients died due to cardiovascular disease, whereas 29 suffered a first episode of coronary ischaemia or stroke. HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients had a greater incidence of cardiovascular disease events and/or death than HIV‐monoinfected individuals (4% vs 1.2%, P = 0.004) and HCV‐monoinfected persons (4% vs 1.4%, P = 0.5). After adjusting for demographics, virological parameters and classical cardiovascular disease risk factors (smoking, hypertension, diabetes, high LDL cholesterol), both HIV/HCV coinfection (HR 2.91; CI 95%: 1.19–7.12; P = 0.02) and hypertension (HR 3.65; CI 95%: 1.34–9.94; P = 0.01) were independently associated with cardiovascular disease events and/or death in HIV‐infected patients. Chronic hepatitis C and hypertension are independently associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk in HIV‐infected patients. Therefore, treatment of chronic hepatitis C should be prioritized in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients regardless of any liver fibrosis staging.
Progressive supranuclear palsy and Parkinson's disease overlap: A clinicopathological case report
Authors: Araki Kunihiko , Sumikura Hiroyuki , Matsudaira Takashi , Sugiura Akira , Takao Masaki , Murayama Shigeo , Obi Tomokazu
Published: September 2015

We describe a woman with a 13‐year history of postural instability, vertical gaze palsy and dopa‐responsive parkinsonism ‐ a clinical profile that corresponds to progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The patient died at the age of 82 years. Neuropathological features included neuronal loss and gliosis in the substantia nigra, locus ceruleus, dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, thoracic intermediolateral nucleus and nucleus basalis of Meynert, in addition to the typical pathology of PSP. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that PSP‐tau pathology was localized in the central nervous system, but Lewy body‐related α‐synucleinopathy was extensive in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Although PSP and PD may represent independent processes, this case could provide insight into a common defect in either protein phosphorylation or the proteinase surveillance system that contributes to human aging.
Increased serum levels of lipopolysaccharide and antiflagellin antibodies in patients with diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Dlugosz A. , Nowak P. , D'Amato M. , Mohammadian Kermani G. , Nyström J. , Abdurahman S. , Lindberg G.
Published: September 2015

Background

Innate immune responses to conserved microbial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and flagellin are likely important in microbial–host interactions and intestinal homeostasis. We hypothesized that bacterial translocation and activation of mucosal immunity against common microbial antigens might be involved in the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We therefore compared serum levels of LPS, soluble CD14 (sCD14), and flagellin antibodies between patients with different subtypes of IBS and healthy controls.

Methods

We analyzed serum obtained from 88 patients (74 females) aged 19(43)–73 years and 106 healthy volunteers (77 females) aged 19(38)–62 years. Diarrhea‐predominant IBS (D‐IBS) was present in 32 patients (36%), 23 patients (26%) had constipation‐predominant IBS (C‐IBS), and 33 patients (38%) had A‐IBS. We used ELISA for sCD14 and antiflagellin immunoglobulin G and limulus amebocyte assay for LPS. Abdominal symptoms and psychiatric comorbidities were assessed using validated questionnaires.

Key Results

We found a significantly higher serum level of LPS in patients with D‐IBS compared to controls (p = 0.0155). The level of antibodies to flagellin was higher in patients with IBS than in controls (mainly driven by higher levels in D‐IBS, p = 0.0018). The levels of sCD14 were lower in D‐IBS patients compared to controls (p = 0.0498). We found a weak, but significant correlation between the levels of antiflagellin antibodies and anxiety among IBS patients (ρ = 0.38; p = 0.0045).

Conclusions & Inferences

Our results support the concept that immune reactivity to luminal antigens may have a role in the development of D‐IBS. The serum level of antiflagellin antibodies was found to correlate with patients’ self‐reported anxiety score.
Modeling terrestrial carbon and water dynamics across climatic gradients: does plant trait diversity matter?
Authors: Pappas Christoforos , Fatichi Simone , Burlando Paolo
Published: September 2015

Plant trait diversity in many vegetation models is crudely represented using a discrete classification of a handful of ‘plant types’ (named plant functional types; PFTs). The parameterization of PFTs reflects mean properties of observed plant traits over broad categories ignoring most of the inter‐ and intraspecific plant trait variability.

Taking advantage of a multivariate leaf‐trait distribution (leaf economics spectrum), as well as documented plant drought strategies, we generate an ensemble of hypothetical species with coordinated attributes, rather than using few PFTs. The behavior of these proxy species is tested using a mechanistic ecohydrological model that translates plant traits into plant performance. Simulations are carried out for a range of climates representative of different elevations and wetness conditions in the European Alps. Using this framework we investigate the sensitivity of ecosystem response to plant trait diversity and compare it with the sensitivity to climate variability.

Plant trait diversity leads to highly divergent vegetation carbon dynamics (fluxes and pools) and to a lesser extent water fluxes (transpiration). Abiotic variables, such as soil water content and evaporation, are only marginally affected.

These results highlight the need for revising the representation of plant attributes in vegetation models. Probabilistic approaches, based on observed multivariate whole‐plant trait distributions, provide a viable alternative.
Scale‐dependent variation in nitrogen cycling and soil fungal communities along gradients of forest composition and age in regenerating tropical dry forests
Authors: Waring Bonnie G. , Adams Rachel , Branco Sara , Powers Jennifer S.
Published: September 2015

Rates of ecosystem nitrogen (N) cycling may be mediated by the presence of ectomycorrhizal fungi, which compete directly with free‐living microbes for N. In the regenerating tropical dry forests of Central America, the distribution of ectomycorrhizal trees is affected by succession and soil parent material, both of which may exert independent influence over soil N fluxes.

In order to quantify these interacting controls, we used a scale‐explicit sampling strategy to examine soil N cycling at scales ranging from the microsite to ecosystem level. We measured fungal community composition, total and inorganic N pools, gross proteolytic rate, net N mineralization and microbial extracellular enzyme activity at multiple locations within 18 permanent plots that span dramatic gradients of soil N concentration, stand age and forest composition.

The ratio of inorganic to organic N cycling was correlated with variation in fungal community structure, consistent with a strong influence of ectomycorrhiza on ecosystem‐scale N cycling. However, on average, > 61% of the variation in soil biogeochemistry occurred within plots, and the effects of forest composition were mediated by this local‐scale heterogeneity in total soil N concentrations.

These cross‐scale interactions demonstrate the importance of a spatially explicit approach towards an understanding of controls on element cycling.
Anemia and autoimmunity markers in an adolescent with Castleman disease
Authors: Fretzayas Andrew , Stasinopoulou Anastasia , Moustaki Maria , Stefos Efstathios , Kaniouras George , Nicolaidou Polyxeni
Published: September 2015

We describe herein the case of an adolescent girl with anemia non‐responsive to oral iron, associated with low‐grade fever, diminished appetite and fatigue. A palpable mass below the xiphoid was noted. Laboratory findings were consistent with anemia of inflammation. Direct antiglobulin test was positive without any other evidence of autoimmune anemia. Other autoantibodies, such as anti‐thyroid and anti‐nuclear antibodies, were also positive. After thorough investigation, Castleman disease was the most likely diagnosis on the basis of high serum interleukin (IL)‐6 and the magnetic resonance imaging findings. 18 F‐FDG positron emission tomography–computed tomography showed a localized hypermetabolic mass, which was resected. Castleman disease of plasma type was identified on histology. Hemogloblin and IL‐6 gradually returned to normal, whereas positive autoantibodies became negative. This case emphasizes the need to investigate thoroughly for the underlying cause of anemia of inflammation and to include Castleman disease in the differential diagnosis, on the measurement of IL‐6.
Life‐threatening acute gastric dilatation with aorta compression in a 3‐year‐old child
Authors: Kim Ah Young , Jung Se Yong , Eun Lucy Youngmin
Published: September 2015

We report a fatal case of acute gastric dilatation in a 3‐year old boy who presented with severe abdominal pain and massive gastric distension in the emergency room. On physical examination the patient was in shock due to acute abdomen and lower limb ischemia. Initial laboratory findings showed multi‐organ failure with acute renal failure and pancreatitis. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed marked dilatation of the stomach resulting in compression of the abdominal aorta. The left kidney, spleen and pancreas were not visible on CT due to the necrotic changes. The patient was quickly stabilized by initial volume resuscitation, but suddenly deteriorated immediately after gastric decompression via nasogastric tube, and died from multi‐organ failure 3 h after initial presentation.
Sporadic Epstein syndrome with macrothrombocytopenia, sensorineural hearing loss and renal failure
Authors: Makino Shigeru , Kunishima Shinji , Ikumi Aki , Awaguni Hitoshi , Shinozuka Jun , Tanaka Shin‐ichiro , Maruyama Rikken , Imashuku Shinsaku
Published: September 2015

We report here a sporadic case of Epstein syndrome, one of the MYH9 disorders. A Japanese boy was first noted to have thrombocytopenia at 3 years of age. Blood smear showed giant platelets but no Döhle‐like bodies in the neutrophils. He had no family history of thrombocytopenia, hearing loss, and/or renal failure. Thrombocytopenia took a chronic course and platelet count fluctuated in the range 18 000–46 000/μL, not responding to i.v. immunoglobulin or prednisolone treatment. The patient had episodes of gross nasal bleeding at 7 and 18 years of age. Mild hearing loss was suspected at 6, and proteinuria was first noted at 14 years of age. At the development of renal failure at 24 years of age, he was identified to have de novo R702H MYH9 mutation. This case illustrates the importance of suspecting MYH9 disorder even in cases of chronic macrothrombocytopenia without family history.
Phylogenetic analyses of CloeodesTraver and related genera (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)
Authors: SALLES FREDERICO F. , GATTOLLIAT JEAN‐LUC , SARTORI MICHEL
Published: September 2015

Cloeodes Traver is atypical among Baetidae (Ephemeroptera) because it seems to possess a unique Pantropical distribution. Thirty‐nine species have been described to date, 26 from the Neotropics, four from the Southern Nearctic, seven from the Afrotropics and two from the Oriental region. Several genera have been considered related to Cloeodes during the last decades, of which the following remain valid: Crassabwa Lugo‐Ortiz & McCafferty, Dabulamanzia Lugo‐Ortiz & McCafferty (both Afrotropical), Bungona Harker (Australasian) and Chopralla Waltz & McCafferty (Oriental). Despite their supposed relationship, a phylogenetic analysis between all of these genera has never been performed. In the present paper, based on an extensive analysis of all genera that have been considered related to Cloeodes, a phylogenetic analysis using morphological characters (continuous and discrete) was performed in order to address the monophyly of the genus Cloeodes within the Cloeodes complex of genera. According to our results, Cloeodes and the complex are paraphyletic. Based on this, Cloeodes is restricted to the New World, Potamocloeon is revalidated to include most representatives of Afrotropical Cloeodes and is divided into two subgenera: Potamocloeon (Africa) and the new Aquaediva (Madagascar). In addition, the concept of Bungona is expanded to include Australasian and Oriental taxa – namely the subgenera Chopralla and the revalidated Centroptella – and finally the new genus Crassolus is established to include C. inzingae comb.n. from Africa.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank, http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:C416090E-C43D-481A-9A3D-F3B1EEE41176.
Alloantibody against new platelet alloantigen (Lapa) on glycoprotein IIb is responsible for a case of fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Wihadmadyatami Hevi , Heidinger Kathrin , Röder Lida , Werth Silke , Giptner Astrid , Hackstein Holger , Knorr Martin , Bein Gregor , Sachs Ulrich J. , Santoso Sentot
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND

Fetal and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) is caused by the destruction of platelets (PLTs) in the fetus or newborn by maternal PLT antibodies that crossed the placenta during pregnancy.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, we aim to elucidate the properties of a new PLT alloantigen (Lapa) that is associated with a severe case of FNAIT. Analysis of maternal serum with phenotyped PLTs by monoclonal antibody–specific immobilization of platelet antigens showed positive reaction against PLT glycoprotein (GP)IIb/IIIa and HLA Class I expressed on paternal PLTs.

RESULTS

In contrast to GPIIIa‐reactive anti‐HPA‐1a, anti‐Lapa alloantibodies precipitated predominantly GPIIb. Indeed, a point mutation G>C at Position 2511 located in Exon 25 of the ITGA2B gene was found in Lapa‐positive donors. This mutation causes an amino exchange Gln>His at Position 806 located in the calf‐2 domain of GPIIb. Lapa‐positive individuals were not found in 300 random blood donors. Our expression study showed that anti‐Lapa alloantibodies reacted with stable transfected HEK293 cells expressing the mutated GPIIb isoform (His806). CHO cells carrying this isoform, however, failed to react with anti‐Lapa alloantibodies, indicating that Lapa epitopes depend on the Gln806His mutation and the carbohydrate composition of the GPIIb. This mutation did not hamper the binding of anti‐HPA‐3a, which recognizes a point mutation (Ile843Ser) located in calf‐2 domain. Finally, we found that Lapa and some HPA‐3a epitopes are sensitive to O‐glycanase.

CONCLUSIONS

This study not only underlines the relevance of rare HPAs on the pathomechanism of FNAIT, but also helps to understand the pitfalls of serologic assays to detect anti‐GPIIb alloantibodies.
Impact of Swirl Flow on Combustor Liner Heat Transfer and Cooling: A Numerical Investigation With Hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes Large Eddy Simulation Models
Authors: Mazzei Lorenzo , Andreini Antonio , Facchini Bruno , Turrini Fabio
Published: September 2015

This paper reports the main findings of a numerical investigation aimed at characterizing the flow field and the wall heat transfer resulting from the interaction of a swirling flow provided by lean-burn injectors and a slot cooling system, which generates film cooling in the first part of the combustor liner. In order to overcome some well-known limitations of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) approach, e.g., the underestimation of mixing, the simulations were performed with hybrid RANS–large eddy simulation (LES) models, namely, scale-adaptive simulation (SAS)–shear stress transport (SST) and detached eddy simulation (DES)–SST, which are proving to be a viable approach to resolve the main structures of the flow field. The numerical results were compared to experimental data obtained on a nonreactive three-sector planar rig developed in the context of the EU project LEMCOTEC. The analysis of the flow field has highlighted a generally good agreement against particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements, especially for the SAS–SST model, whereas DES–SST returns some discrepancies in the opening angle of the swirling flow, altering the location of the corner vortex. Also the assessment in terms of Nu/Nu0 distribution confirms the overall accuracy of SAS–SST, where a constant overprediction in the magnitude of the heat transfer is shown by DES–SST, even though potential improvements with mesh refinement are pointed out.
Mass spectrometry measurements of a low pressure expanding plasma jet
Authors: Caldirola Stefano , Barni Ruggero , Roman H. Eduardo , Riccardi Claudia
Published: September 2015

The free expansion of a plasma can be used to produce a supersonic jet of neutrals and ions capable of creating thin films having specific nanostructures. The supersonic jet is generated by the pressure difference between two vacuum chambers connected through a converging nozzle. The authors acquired expansion profiles for a binary argon–oxygen mixture first starting from a neutral gas, and then from an inductively coupled plasma created inside the first chamber. The gas density was measured along the axis of the expanding supersonic jet. The gas profiles confirm the validity of an isentropic model without ending shock recompression for both the neutral gas and the plasma expansion. Ion profiles were measured for the plasma jet and show that, at the end of the supersonic jet, there is an enhancement of the local ion flux in the high energy part of their spectra.
Galilean invariance in Lagrangian mechanics
Authors: Mohallem J. R.
Published: September 2015

The troublesome topic of Galilean invariance in Lagrangian mechanics is discussed in two situations: (i) A particular case involving a rheonomic constraint in uniform motion and (ii) the general translation of an entire system and the constants of motion involved. A widespread impropriety in most textbooks is corrected, concerning a condition for the equality h = E to hold.
Asymmetric wave functions from tiny perturbations
Authors: Dauphinee T. , Marsiglio F.
Published: September 2015

The quantum mechanical behavior of a particle in a double well defies our intuition based on classical reasoning. Not surprisingly, an asymmetry in the double well will restore results more consistent with the classical picture. What is surprising, however, is how a very small asymmetry can lead to essentially classical behavior. In this paper, we use the simplest version of a double-well potential to demonstrate these statements. We also show how this system accurately maps onto a two-state system, which we refer to as a “toy model.”
Colliding nuclei to colliding galaxies: Illustrations using a simple colliding liquid-drop apparatus
Authors: Becchetti F. D. , Mack S. L. , Robinson W. R. , Ojaruega M.
Published: September 2015

A simple apparatus suitable for observing the collisions between drops of fluids of various properties is described. Typical results are shown for experiments performed by undergraduate students using various types of fluids. The collisions take place under free-fall (zero-g) conditions, with analysis employing digital video. Two specific types of collisions are examined in detail, head-on collisions and peripheral, grazing collisions. The collisions for certain fluids illustrate many types of nuclear collisions and provide useful insight into these processes, including both fusion and non-fusion outcomes, often with the formation of exotic shapes or emission of secondary fragments. Collisions of other liquids show a more chaotic behavior, often resembling galactic collisions. As expected, the Weber number associated with a specific collision impact parameter is found to be the important quantity in determining the initial outcome of these colliding systems. The features observed resemble those reported by others using more elaborate experimental techniques.
Designing and building a permanent magnet Zeeman slower for calcium atoms using a 3D printer
Authors: Parsagian Alexandria , Kleinert Michaela
Published: September 2015

We present the design of a Zeeman slower for calcium atoms using permanent magnets instead of more traditional electromagnets and the novel technique of 3D printing to create a very robust and flexible structure for these magnets. Zeeman slowers are ideal tools to slow atoms from several hundreds of meters per second to just a few tens of meters per second. These slower atoms can then easily be trapped in a magneto-optical trap, making Zeeman slowers a very valuable tool in many cold atom labs. The use of permanent magnets and 3D printing results in a highly stable and robust slower that is suitable for undergraduate laboratories. In our design, we arranged 28 magnet pairs, 2.0 cm apart along the axis of the slower and at varying radial distances from the axis. We determined the radial position of the magnets by simulating the combined field of all magnet pairs using Mathematica and comparing it to the ideal theoretical field for a Zeeman slower. Finally, we designed a stable, robust, compact, and easy-to-align mounting structure for the magnets in Google Sketchup, which we then printed using a commercially available 3D printer by Solidoodle. The resulting magnetic field is well suited to slow calcium atoms from the 770 m/s rms velocity at a temperature of 950 K, down to the capture velocity of the magneto-optical trap.
A Correction Equation for Jump Height Measured Using the Just Jump System
Authors: McMahon John J. , Jones Paul A. , Comfort Paul
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

To determine the concurrent validity and reliability of the popular Just Jump system (JJS) for determining jump height and, if necessary, provide a correction equation for future reference.

Methods:

Eighteen male college athletes performed 3 bilateral countermovement jumps (CMJs) on 2 JJSs (alternative method) that were placed on top of a force platform (criterion method). Two JJSs were used to establish consistency between systems. Jump height was calculated from flight time obtained from the JJS and force platform.

Results:

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated excellent within-session reliability of the CMJ height measurement derived from both the JJS (ICC = .96, P < .001) and the force platform (ICC = .96, P < .001). Dependent t tests revealed that the JJS yielded a significantly greater CMJ jump height (0.46 ± 0.09 m vs 0.33 ± 0.08 m) than the force platform (P < .001, Cohen d = 1.39, power = 1.00). There was, however, an excellent relationship between CMJ heights derived from the JJS and force platform (r = .998, P < .001, power = 1.00), with a coefficient of determination (R2) of .995. Therefore, the following correction equation was produced: Criterion jump height = (0.8747 × alternative jump height) – 0.0666.

Conclusions:

The JJS provides a reliable but overestimated measure of jump height. It is suggested, therefore, that practitioners who use the JJS as part of future work apply the correction equation presented in this study to resultant jump-height values.
Between-Days Reliability and Sensitivity of Common Fatigue Measures in Rugby Players
Authors: Roe Gregory , Darrall-Jones Joshua , Till Kevin , Phibbs Padraic , Read Dale , Weakley Jonathon , Jones Ben
Published: September 2015

This study established the between-days reliability and sensitivity of a countermovement jump (CMJ), plyometric push-up, well-being questionnaire, and whole-blood creatine kinase concentration ([CK]) in elite male youth rugby union players. The study also established the between-days reliability of 1, 2, or 3 CMJs and plyometric-push-up attempts. Twenty-five players completed tests on 2 occasions separated by 5 d (of rest). Between-days typical error, coefficient of variation (CV), and smallest worthwhile change (SWC) were calculated for the well-being questionnaire, [CK], and CMJ and plyometric-push-up metrics (peak/mean power, peak/mean force, height, flight time, and flight-time to contraction-time ratio) for 1 maximal effort or taking the highest score from 2 or 3 maximal efforts. The results suggest that CMJ mean power (2 or 3 attempts), peak force, or mean force and plyometric-push-up mean force (from 2 or 3 attempts) should be used for assessing lower- and upper-body neuromuscular function, respectively, due to both their acceptable reliability (CV < 5%) and good sensitivity (CV < SWC). The well-being questionnaire and [CK] demonstrated between-days CVs >5% (7.1% and 26.1%, respectively) and poor sensitivity (CV > SWC). The findings from this study can be used when interpreting fatigue markers to make an objective decision about a player’s readiness to train or compete.
Prosthetic mitral valve obstruction: role of real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in diagnosis
Authors: Kannan Arun , Jahan Kahroba , Lotun Kapildeo , Janardhanan Rajesh
Published: September 2015

Acute prosthetic valve thrombosis is a potentially serious complication with an incidence as high as 6% per patient-year for prostheses in the mitral position. Accurate diagnosis of the degree of obstruction and differentiation of pannus versus thrombus is critical in determination of the best mode of therapy. We discuss a case of a patient with multiple comorbidities who presented with mechanical mitral valve obstruction where both transthoracic and two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were limited in making an accurate diagnosis regarding the mechanism of obstruction. Real-time 3D-TEE (RT-3DTEE) was critical in identifying a partial thrombus on the mechanical valve and guided the choice of thrombolysis as the most appropriate intervention, thus avoiding high-risk surgery in this patient with significant multiple comorbidities.
Unusual cause of maxillary sinus mass with proptosis
Authors: Kurien Regi , Babu Telugu Ramesh , Rupa Vedantam
Published: September 2015

We report a case of a 21-year-old Indian man with an 8-month history of left-sided headache, maxillary sinus mass, proptosis and swelling of the left temple, whose contrast-enhanced CT scans of the paranasal sinuses showed an enhancing, destructive soft tissue mass involving the left maxillary sinus, orbit, infratemporal fossa and anterior cranial fossa, suggestive of a malignancy or chronic granulomatous disease. Histopathological examination of the sinus mass, which was debulked and partially excised via an endoscopic approach, suggested a diagnosis of immunoglobulin G4-related sclerosing disease of the maxillary sinus. Subsequent immunohistochemical staining and biochemical tests confirmed the diagnosis. We highlight the importance of considering this increasingly recognised but rare entity that can mimic a malignant lesion with its clinical and radiological features but which, unlike the latter, has a very good prognosis with appropriate treatment.
Central serous chorioretinopathy after ocular trauma in the fellow eye during a water-polo game
Authors: Moschos Marilita M , Gouliopoulos Nikolaos Stefanos
Published: September 2015

A 35-year-old water polo player was struck in his right eye during a water polo game. At presentation to our hospital, his visual acuity, intraocular pressure, fundus examination and neurological examination were normal. He received the appropriate treatment (no corticosteroids were applied), but 1 week later he reported blurred vision in his left eye. Visual acuity in the left eye was 6/10 Snellen chart, fluorescein angiography showed a focal retinal pigment epithelium leakage, while optical coherence tomography through the macula revealed mild neurosensory retinal detachment with an increase in retinal thickness. Two weeks later, the situation improved, and 1 month later no signs or symptoms of central serous chorioretinopathy were present. Currently, 9 months later, the situation remains unchanged. Post-traumatic stress was recognised as the key factor for development of central serous chorioretinopathy in our patient, since it was followed by excessive release of catecholamines and increased endogenous cortisol levels.
A case of acute septic arthritis hip caused byBrucella melitensisin an adolescent child
Authors: Jalan Divesh , Elhence Abhay , Elhence Poonam , Jain Princi
Published: September 2015

Brucellais among the most common zoonotic diseases affecting humans. Although musculoskeletal involvement is seen in a large proportion of patients, the disease is often diagnosed late or misdiagnosed due to its subtle nature and rarity, and lack of awareness among clinicians. In this report, a 12-year-old girl was diagnosed with acute septic arthritis of the hip based on clinico-radiological features, and managed with standard treatment, including arthrotomy. However, the child did not respond to the treatment. Based on the histopathology and local endemicity,Brucellawas suspected, and confirmed after serological testing. The child subsequently responded to treatment and, at latest follow-up at 1 year, had a full painless range of motion, with no relapse.
Syncope secondary to left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, an interesting presentation of infective endocarditis
Authors: Honarbakhsh Shohreh , Chowdhury Mohammad , Farooqi Fahad , Deaner Andrew
Published: September 2015

We describe a case of a 74-year-old woman who presented with symptoms of fever and lethargy, associated with an episode of cardiac syncope and exertional shortness of breath (SOB). She was diagnosed withStaphylococcus aureusinfective mural endocarditis (IE) and subsequent transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) confirmed this diagnosis. As the vegetative mass arose from the septal wall, an unusual location, it caused left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction and therefore behaved similarly to a subaortic valvular stenosis. There were no conduction abnormalities on the ECG and no clinical or echocardiographic features of congestive heart failure. The finding of LVOT obstruction explained the unusual presentation with syncope and exertional SOB making this case unique. Owing to the large vegetative mass and thereby its high risk of septic emboli, the patient underwent successful surgical resection of the mass with resolution of the obstruction. She successfully completed intravenous antibiotics and was discharged from hospital.
Measuring unsaturated soil deformations during triaxial testing using a photogrammetry-based method
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Xiong , Chen Gang , Lytton Robert
Published: September 2015

When characterizing an unsaturated soil using the triaxial test apparatus, it is required to measure the soil deformation during loading. Recently, a photogrammetry-based method has been developed for total and localized volume change measurements on unsaturated soils during triaxial testing. In this study, more in-depth discussions on the photogrammetry-based method are addressed, such as system setup, the measurement procedure, accuracy self-check, data post-processing, and differences from conventional image-based methods. Also, an application of the photogrammetry-based method on unsaturated soil deformation measurements is presented through a series of undrained triaxial tests with different loading paths. After testing, three-dimensional (3D) models of the tested soils at different loading steps were constructed based on the 3D coordinates of measurement targets on the soil surface. Clear barreling processes for soils during deviatoric loading were observed through the constructed 3D models at different axial strain levels. Soil volume changes and volumetric strain nonuniformities during isotropic and deviatoric loadings were extracted based upon detailed analyses of different soil layers. Through a full-field strain distribution analysis, a shear band evolution process was captured for the soil during deviatoric loading at a low confining stress. The photogrammetry-based method proved to be very powerful for in-depth soil deformation characteristics investigation.
Maximizing fisheries yields while maintaining community structure
Authors: Kolding Jeppe , Jacobsen Nis S. , Andersen Ken H. , van Zwieten Paul A.M.
Published: September 2015

Under the ecosystem approach to fisheries, an optimal fishing pattern is one that gives the highest possible yield while having the least structural impact on the community. Unregulated, open-access African inland fisheries have been observed to sustain high catches by harvesting a broad spectrum of species and sizes, often in conflict with current management regulations in terms of mesh and gear regulations. Using a size- and trait-based model, we explore whether such exploitation patterns are commensurable with the ecosystem approach to fisheries by comparing the impacts on size spectrum slope and yield with the different size limit regimes employed in the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of man-made Lake Kariba. Long-term multispecies data under fished and unfished conditions are used to compare and validate the model results. Both model and observations show that the highest yields and low structural impact on the ecosystem are obtained by targeting small individuals in the community. These results call for a re-evaluation of the size-based management regulations that are ubiquitous in most fisheries.
Structure and magnetic properties of (Ru0.9Nb0.1)Sr2(Gd1.34−xNdxCe0.66)Cu2Oz system
Authors: Lee H. K.
Published: September 2015

Polycrystalline samples of [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] have been synthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), electrical resistivity, thermoelectric power and magnetization measurements. Resistivity measurements revealed that the onset transition temperature [Formula: see text] decreased slightly from [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Magnetization measurements showed that the partial substitution of [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text] leads to a significant decrease in the magnetic ordering temperature. A suppression of the weak ferromagnetic component of the field-cooled (FC) magnetization with [Formula: see text]-doping content was also observed for the samples with [Formula: see text]. The changes in the superconducting transition temperature, the magnetic ordering temperature and the weak ferromagnetic component of the FC magnetization are discussed in conjunction with the change in hole concentration and the local structural changes in the Ru sublattice induced by [Formula: see text] doping, based on the Rietveld refinements of the XRD data.
Vacancy effects on the electronic structure of MgO compound
Authors: Merabet B. , Kacimi S. , Mir A. , Azzouz M. , Zaoui A.
Published: September 2015

We have investigated the possibility to find [Formula: see text] ferromagnetism (FM) in the non-stoichiometric [Formula: see text] compound using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave [Formula: see text] method. We have examined the oxygen vacancy effect on the electronic structure of [Formula: see text] compound realizing the 128 atoms supercell. Our calculations predict that the cation vacancies cause the FM in [Formula: see text], where the magnetism is often created by the oxygen atoms nearest neighbors of the Mg vacant site, with a spin magnetic moment of 0.21 [Formula: see text]B/atom. We have reported a strong evidence of the existence of FM at room temperature, as we extended our studies to demonstrate the ability to induce intrinsic magnetic moments in MgO with cationic vacancies (Mg).
Traffic accident and emission reduction through intermittent release measures for heavy fog weather
Authors: Shi Jing , Tan Jin-Hua
Published: September 2015

Heavy fog weather can increase traffic accidents and lead to freeway closures which result in delays. This paper aims at exploring traffic accident and emission characteristics in heavy fog, as well as freeway intermittent release measures for heavy fog weather. A driving simulator experiment is conducted for obtaining driving behaviors in heavy fog. By proposing a multi-cell cellular automaton (CA) model based on the experimental data, the role of intermittent release measures on the reduction of traffic accidents and CO emissions is studied. The results show that, affected by heavy fog, when cellular occupancy [Formula: see text], the probability of traffic accidents is much higher; and CO emissions increase significantly when [Formula: see text]. After an intermittent release measure is applied, the probability of traffic accidents and level of CO emissions become reasonable. Obviously, the measure can enhance traffic safety and reduce emissions.
Variation of the extended s-wave superconducting order parameter: From s-wave to g-wave
Authors: Chung H. , Kim N. , Kim H.
Published: September 2015

We investigate evolution of properties of an extended [Formula: see text]-wave superconductor, when the order parameter varies from an [Formula: see text]-wave to a [Formula: see text]-wave continuously, by using a model order parameter [Formula: see text]. The evolution of the gap amplitude, the density of states and the specific heat are mainly focused on. For [Formula: see text], due to the existence of a finite sized gap, the characteristic behaviors more or less follow those of the [Formula: see text]-wave. Sudden changes in the characteristic behaviors come out for [Formula: see text], due to appearances of nodes. For [Formula: see text], point nodes in the order parameter on the Fermi surface appear, while for [Formula: see text], line nodes appear. Although they are different kinds of nodes which would usually induce different power-law dependencies in superconducting properties, interestingly enough, they give rise to the same characteristic behavior. The detailed structure of the point nodes for [Formula: see text] is investigated, and it is explained why they lead to the same dependence as the line nodes.
Framed cord algebra invariant of knots in S1 × S2
Authors: Cui Shawn X. , Wang Zhenghan
Published: September 2015

We generalize Ng’s two-variable algebraic/combinatorial zeroth framed knot contact homology for framed oriented knots in [Formula: see text] to knots in [Formula: see text], and prove that the resulting knot invariant is the same as the framed cord algebra of knots. Actually, our cord algebra has an extra variable, which potentially corresponds to the third variable in Ng’s three-variable knot contact homology. Our main tool is Lin’s generalization of the Markov theorem for braids in [Formula: see text] to braids in [Formula: see text]. We conjecture that our framed cord algebras are always finitely generated for non-local knots.
Repeated boundary slopes for 2-bridge knots
Authors: Curtis Cynthia L. , Franczak William , Leiser Randoplh J. , Manheimer Ryan J.
Published: September 2015

We investigate the question of when distinct branched surfaces in the complement of a 2-bridge knot support essential surfaces with identical boundary slopes. We determine all instances in which this occurs and identify an infinite family of knots for which no boundary slopes are repeated.
Kienböck Disease: Recent Advances in the Basic Science, Assessment and Treatment
Authors: Bain Gregory Ian , Yeo Chong Jin , Morse Levi Philip
Published: September 2015

Kienböck disease is a disorder of impaired lunate vascularity which ultimately has the potential to lead to marked degeneration of the wrist and impaired wrist function. The aetiology of the avascular necrosis is uncertain, but theories relate to ulnar variance, variability in lunate vascularity and intraosseous pressures. Clinical symptoms can be subtle and variable, requiring a high index of suspicion for the diagnosis. The Lichtmann classification has historically been used to guide management. We present a review of Kienböck disease, with a focus on the recent advances in assessment and treatment. Based on our understanding thus far of the pathoanatomy of Kienböck’s disease, we are proposing a pathological staging system founded on the vascularity, osseous and chondral health of the lunate. We also propose an articular-based approach to treatment, with an arthroscopic grading system to guide management.
Simple Trapeziectomy for Arthrosis of the Basal Joint of the Thumb: 49 Thumbs Reviewed After Two Years
Authors: Elvebakk Kristine , Johnsen Ingrid Elisabeth , Wold Cecilie Bendiksen , Finsen Thomas , Russwurm Harald , Finsen Vilhjalmur
Published: September 2015

Background: Many different surgical strategies for arthrosis of the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb are described in the literature. In 2010 we changed our routine procedure from an interposition arthroplasty using the abductor pollicis longus (APL) tendon to simple trapeziectomy without suspension or interposition. The purpose of this study was to review the clinical outcome after trapeziectomy and to compare it to those we had achieved with the APL procedure.

Methods: We examined 49 hands operated with simple trapeziectomy during 2011-2012. Time between operation and review was 26 (15-26) months. Subjective estimation of pain before and after surgery and satisfaction with the general results were evaluated with visual analogue scales. The ability to participate in various activities of daily living before and after the operation were noted and patients completed the Quick-DASH and the PRWHE questionnaires. The mobility of the thumb and wrist were recorded and grip and key pinch strength were measured. The distance between the base of the first metacarpal and the scaphoid was noted on radiographs.

Results: There were no significant differences between the present results and those we had achieved with the APL procedure regarding subjective estimation of pain and satisfaction, activities of daily living, mobility, strength and radiographic carpometacarpal distance. For many outcome parameters there was a non-significant trend for better results among the trapeziectomy patients, but increased clumsiness was reported by 20 of them.

Conclusions: We conclude that our results with simple trapeziectomy are at least as good as with the APL procedure. However, the considerable number of patients complaining of clumsiness is worrying.