bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational fluid dynamics with stents: quantitative comparison with particle image velocimetry for three commercial off the shelf intracranial stents
Authors: Bouillot Pierre , Brina Olivier , Ouared Rafik , Yilmaz Hasan , Lovblad Karl-Olof , Farhat Mohamed , Mendes Pereira Vitor
Published: January 2015

Background and purpose

Validation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in stented intracranial aneurysms (IAs) is still lacking, to reliably predict prone to occlusion hemodynamics, probing, in particular, velocity reduction, and flow pattern changes. This study compares CFD outcome with particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) for three commercial off the shelf (COTS) stents of different material densities.

Material and methods

The recently developed uniform and high precision multi-time lag PIV method was applied to a sidewall aneurysm before and after implantation of three COTS stents with high, intermediate, and low material densities. The measured laser sheet flow patterns and velocity reductions were compared with CFD results and correlated with stent material density.

Results

Velocity reduction was in good agreement for unstented high and low porosity stented IA, while flow pattern change was fully matched for unstented and high porosity stented IA. Poor CFD–PIV matching in IA was found for intermediate porosity stents.

Conclusions

CFD reproduced fully PIV measurements in unstented and high porosity stented IAs. With low porosity stents, CFD reproduced velocity reduction and high velocities close to the neck, while a marked mismatch on sluggish flow was found at the dome. CFD was unable to match PIV with intermediate porosity stents for which hemodynamic transition occurred.
Vitamin D receptor signaling and its therapeutic implications: Genome-wide and structural view
Authors: Carlberg Carsten , Molnár Ferdinand
Published: January 2015

Vitamin D3is one of the few natural compounds that has, via its metabolite 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3(1,25(OH)2D3) and the transcription factor vitamin D receptor (VDR), a direct effect on gene regulation. For efficiently applying the therapeutic and disease-preventing potential of 1,25(OH)2D3and its synthetic analogs, the key steps in vitamin D signaling need to be understood. These are the different types of molecular interactions with the VDR, such as (i) the complex formation of VDR with genomic DNA, (ii) the interaction of VDR with its partner transcription factors, (iii) the binding of 1,25(OH)2D3or its synthetic analogs within the ligand-binding pocket of the VDR, and (iv) the resulting conformational change on the surface of the VDR leading to a change of the protein–protein interaction profile of the receptor with other proteins. This review will present the latest genome-wide insight into vitamin D signaling, and will discuss its therapeutic implications.
Modelling resistance and reactance with heterogeneous airway narrowing in mild to severe asthma
Authors: Bhatawadekar Swati A. , Leary Del , Maksym Geoffrey N.
Published: January 2015

Ventilation heterogeneity is an important marker of small airway dysfunction in asthma. The frequency dependence of respiratory system resistance (Rrs) from oscillometry is used as a measure of this heterogeneity. However, this has not been quantitatively assessed or compared with other outcomes from oscillometry, including respiratory system reactance (Xrs) and the associated elastance (Ers). Here, we used a multibranch model of the human lung, including an upper airway shunt, to match previously reported respiratory mechanics in mild to severe asthma. We imposed heterogeneity by narrowing a proportion of the peripheral airways to account for patient Ers at 5 Hz, and then narrowed central airways to account for the remaining Rrs at 18 Hz. The model required >75% of the small airways to be occluded to reproduce severe asthma. While the model produced frequency dependence in Rrs, it was upward-shifted below 5 Hz compared with in-vivo results, indicating that other factors, including more distributed airway narrowing or central airway wall compliance, are required. However, Ers quantitatively reflected the imposed heterogeneity better than the frequency dependence of Rrs, independent of the frequency range for the estimation, and thus was a more robust measure of small-airway function. Thus, Ers appears to have greater potential as a clinical measure of early small-airway disease in asthma.
Nuclear membrane R-type calcium channels mediate cytosolic ET-1-induced increase of nuclear calcium in human vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Bkaily Ghassan , Avedanian Levon , Al-Khoury Johny , Chamoun Marc , Semaan Rana , Jubinville-Leblanc Cynthia , D’Orléans-Juste Pedro , Jacques Danielle
Published: January 2015

The objective of this work was to verify whether, as in the case of the plasma membrane of human vascular smooth muscle cells (hVSMCs), cytosolic ET-1-induced increase of nuclear calcium is mediated via the activation of calcium influx through the steady-state R-type calcium channel. Pharmacological tools to identify the R-type calcium channels, as well as real 3-D confocal microscopy imaging techniques coupled to calcium fluorescent probes, were used to study the effect of cytosolic ET-1 on nuclear calcium in isolated nuclei of human hepatocytes and plasma membrane perforated hVSMCs. Our results showed that pre-treatment with pertussis toxin (PTX) or cholera toxin (CTX) prevented cytosolic ET-1 (10−9 mol/L) from inducing a sustained increase in nuclear calcium. Furthermore, the L-type calcium channel blocker nifedipine did not prevent cytosolic ET-1 from inducing an increase in nuclear calcium, as opposed to the dual L- and R-type calcium channel blocker isradipine (PN200-110) (in the presence of nifedipine). In conclusion, the preventative effect with PTX and CTX, and the absence of an effect with nifedipine, as well as the blockade by isradipine on cytosolic ET-1-induced increase in nuclear calcium, suggest that this nuclear calcium influx in hVSMCs is due to activation of the steady-state R-type calcium channel. The sarcolemmal and nuclear membrane R-type calcium channels in hVSMCs are involved in ET-1 modulation of vascular tone in physiology and pathology.
On the Coble quartic and Fourier–Jacobi expansion of theta relations
Authors: Dalla Piazza Francesco , Salvati Manni Riccardo
Published: January 2015

In [Q. Ren, S. Sam, G. Schrader and B. Sturmfels, The universal Kummer threefold, Experiment Math.22(3) (2013) 327–362], the authors conjectured equations for the universal Kummer variety in genus 3 case. Although, most of these equations are obtained from the Fourier–Jacobi expansion of relations among theta constants in genus 4, the more prominent one, Coble's quartic, cf. [A. Coble, Algebraic Geometry and Theta Functions, American Mathematical Society Colloquium Publications, Vol. 10 (American Mathematical Society, 1929)] was obtained differently, cf. [S. Grushevsky and R. Salvati Manni, On Coble's quartic, preprint (2012), arXiv:1212.1895] too. The aim of this paper is to show that Coble's quartic can be obtained as Fourier–Jacobi expansion of a relation among theta-constants in genus 4. We get also one more relation that could be in the ideal described in [Experiment Math.22(3) (2013) 327–362].
Insights and puzzles in particle physics
Authors: Leutwyler H.
Published: January 2015

I briefly review the conceptual developments that led to the Standard Model and discuss some of its remarkable qualitative features. On the way, I draw attention to several puzzling aspects that are beyond the reach of our present understanding of the basic laws of physics.
Exclusive processes and the fundamental structure of hadrons
Authors: Brodsky Stanley J.
Published: January 2015

I review the historical development of QCD predictions for exclusive hadronic processes, beginning with constituent counting rules and the quark interchange mechanism, phenomena which gave early validation for the quark structure of hadrons. The subsequent development of pQCD factorization theorems for hard exclusive amplitudes and the development of evolution equations for the hadron distribution amplitudes provided a rigorous framework for calculating hadronic form factors and hard scattering exclusive scattering processes at high momentum transfer. I also give a brief introduction to the field of "light-front holography" and the insights it brings to quark confinement, the behavior of the QCD coupling in the nonperturbative domain, as well as hadron spectroscopy and the dynamics of exclusive processes.
Solution to the proton radius puzzle
Authors: Robson D.
Published: January 2015

The relationship between the static electric form factor for the proton in the rest frame and the Sachs electric form factor in the Breit momentum frame is used to provide a value for the difference in the mean squared charge radius of the proton evaluated in the two frames. Associating the muonic–hydrogen data analysis for the proton charge radius of 0.84087 fm with the rest frame and associating the electron scattering data with the Breit frame yields a prediction of 0.87944 fm for the proton radius in the relativistic frame. The most recent value deduced via electron scattering from the proton is 0.877(6) fm so that the frame dependence used here yields a plausible solution to the proton radius puzzle.
TiO2-BASED COMPOSITE FILMS FOR THE PHOTODEGRADATION OF OXYTETRACYCLINE
Authors: LI HUI , GUAN LING-XIAO , FENG JI-JUN , LI FANG , YAO MING-MING
Published: January 2015

The spread of the antibiotic oxytetracycline (OTC) has been thought as a threat to the safety of drinking water. In this paper, the photocatalytic activity of the nanocrystalline Fe/Ca co-doped TiO 2- SiO 2 composite film for the degradation of OTC was studied. The films were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), N 2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, photoluminescence (PL) spectra, and UV-Vis diffraction reflectance absorption spectra (DRS). The FE-SEM results indicated that the Fe/Ca co-doped TiO 2- SiO 2 film was composed of smaller nanoparticles compared to pure TiO 2 or TiO 2- SiO 2 film. The BET surface area results showed that the specific surface area of the pure TiO 2, TiO 2- SiO 2 and Ca 2+/ Fe 3+ co-doped TiO 2- SiO 2 is 118.3 m2g-1, 294.3 m2g-1 and 393.7 m2g-1, respectively. The DRS and PL spectra revealed that the Fe/Ca co-doped TiO 2- SiO 2 film had strong visible light adsorption and diminished electrons/holes recombination. Experimental results showed that the Fe / Ca co-doped TiO 2- SiO 2 film is effective in the degradation of OTC under both UV and visible light irradiation.
Signed star (j, k)-domatic numbers of digraphs
Authors: Sheikholeslami S. M. , Volkmann L.
Published: January 2015

Let D be a simple digraph with arc set A(D), and let j and k be two positive integers. A function f : A(D) → {-1, 1} is said to be a signed star j-dominating function (SSjDF) on D if ∑a ∈ A(v) f(a) ≥ j for every vertex v of D, where A(v) is the set of arcs with head v. A set {f1, f2, …, fd} of distinct SSjDFs on D with the property that [Formula: see text] for each a ∈ A(D), is called a signed star (j, k)-dominating (SS(j, k)D) family (of functions) on D. The maximum number of functions in a SS(j, k)D family on D is the signed star (j, k)-domatic number of D, denoted by [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we study properties of the signed star (j, k)-domatic number of a digraph D. In particular, we determine bounds on [Formula: see text]. Some of our results extend these ones given by Sheikholeslami and Volkmann [Signed star k-domination and k-domatic number of digraphs, submitted] for the signed (j, 1)-domatic number.
TEM study on particles transported by ascending gas flow in the Kaxiutata iron deposit, Inner Mongolia, North China
Authors: Dai Dongle , Cao Jianjin , Lai Peixin , Wu Zhengquan
Published: January 2015

Metal migration processes, by means of gas-transported particles, from an iron magnetite skarn deposit beneath Quaternary transported overburden, to surface was studied at the Kaxiutata iron deposit. This study area is located in the desert of the Inner Mongolia region in northern China. Ascending gas-transported particles were collected using passive adsorption methods; a total of 50 samples were obtained over the known mineralization (30 within the mining area and 20 from the exploration area), and 15 samples were collected over background areas for comparison. The morphology, categorization, and chemical composition of particles in these samples were determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the mining and exploration area, the particles related to the subsurface mineralization (ore-bearing particles) are primarily Fe-, Cu-, Zn-, Pb-, and Bi-bearing, and particles show significant common characteristics. Sulphur is generally absent, or its content is notably low. However, based on the geological description of primary mineralization, Cu, Zn, and Pb occur mainly as sulphides, implying that the minerals were subjected to
in situ
or transport-associated oxidation. Most particles are actually aggregates of various smaller particles of diverse origin. Evidence of oxidation and agglomeration of particles may reflect the high porosity and gas permeability of the sandy overburden, which provides an oxidizing environment for gas-transported particles. The distribution of ore-bearing particles is correlated with the subsurface mineralization. Iron-rich particles (> 30% Fe) and Cu-, Zn-, and Bi-bearing particles collected above the mining area were also collected in the exploration zone, and these types of particles are likely indicators of underlying iron mineralization. Samples collected from the background zone revealed no Cu-, Bi-, Mo-, and Pb-bearing particles. The migration mechanism of gas-transported particles in the desert area is summarized and discussed based on this and previous studies.

Supplementary material:

Some of the TEM images, high resolution TEM images and SAED patterns of the particles with no relation to mineralization are supplemented in Appendix 1 which is available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18810
.
Sedimentology and reservoir properties of tabular and erosive offshore transition deposits in wave-dominated, shallow-marine strata: Book Cliffs, USA
Authors: Eide Christian Haug , Howell John A. , Buckley Simon J.
Published: January 2015

Facies models for wave-dominated shorelines include an ‘offshore transition zone’ between shelfal mudstones and nearshore shoreface sandstones. Offshore transition-zone deposits are commonly tabular sandstone beds interbedded with continuous mudstone beds. However, observations from the Blackhawk Formation show that the offshore transition zone locally consists of erosive-based sandstone beds with ‘pinch-and-swell’ geometries containing steep-walled gutter casts, in areas larger than 6 × 2 km along strike and dip. This increases the amount of sand-on-sand contacts, and leads to improved vertical permeability. Predicting the distribution of erosive offshore transition within the subsurface is therefore desirable. In this study, offshore transition-zone deposits have been studied using virtual outcrops. Tabular offshore transition-zone deposits have continuous sandstone and mudstone beds much longer than 500 m, and erosive offshore transition-zone deposits have discontinuous shales, on average, 60 m long. Reservoir modelling shows a 10- to two-fold increase in vertical permeability in erosive compared to tabular offshore transition deposits, the magnitude decreasing with increasing fraction of shale. Erosive offshore transition deposits occur near distributary channels, subaqueous channels and abrupt bathymetric breaks. A regional study shows that erosive offshore transition-zone deposits are mainly developed where parasequences prograde into deeper water offshore the platform break of the preceding parasequence, are commonly associated with basinal turbidites and may be related to erosion by bypassing turbidity currents.
A Topology Control Algorithm for Sensor Networks Based on Robust Optimization
Authors: Qiao Junfeng , Liu Sanyang , Duan Wei
Published: January 2015

In recent years, wireless sensor networks have been widely used in data acquisition, surveillance, event monitoring, and so forth. Topology control is an important issue in designing sensor networks. Considering the uncertainty of distance between nodes, a distributed topology control algorithm named as LRMST, which is based on the local minimum spanning tree (LMST) algorithm, is proposed by applying the 0-1 robust discrete optimization theory. Firstly, when only the cost coefficients are subject to uncertainty, it is proved that the robust counterpart of the 0-1 discrete optimization problem on n variables can be solved by solving at most [Formula: see text] deterministic problems, where Γ denotes the number of cost coefficients which change in an uncertainty set. Then we present a robust model for the MST problem under distance uncertainty. According to the proved conclusion, an algorithm is proposed to obtain the robust solution of uncertain MST problem by solving only one deterministic MST problem, after which LRMST algorithm is designed when the distance between nodes is affected by uncertainty. Simulation results show that LRMST algorithm tends to select some edges whose estimated distance is slightly longer and obtains the robustness when the distance is uncertain at the expense of less optimal value compared with LMST algorithm.
Postchemotherapy Histopathological Evaluation of Ovarian Carcinoma: A 40-Case Study
Authors: Tiwana Kanwardeep Kaur , Nibhoria Sarita , Kaur Manmeet , Monga Tanvi , Gupta Ratika
Published: January 2015

Ovarian carcinomas are conventionally treated with primary debulking surgery followed by chemotherapy. Nowadays neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery is an upcoming treatment modality for ovarian carcinoma. This study highlights the histopathological changes observed after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Present study is a 40-case study stressing five histological parameters: residual tumour, fibrosis, necrosis, inflammation, and psammoma bodies. All these parameters carry prognostic significance and they are easily reproducible. Fleiss kappa statistics were used to measure intraobserver agreement between pathologists which was found to be substantial to almost perfect with κ ranging between 0.621 and 1.00. This study highlights easily reproducible parameters and their incorporation in histopathology report, thus helping in patient management.
Hamman’s Syndrome: A Rare Cause of Chest Pain in a Postpartum Patient
Authors: Khurram Daniyeh , Patel Brijesh , Farra M. Waseem
Published: January 2015

Hamman’s syndrome is a rare condition represented by spontaneous pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema. Excessive Valsalva maneuver during vaginal delivery and excessive retching, coughing, and straining are frequently reported causes. The incidence of Hamman’s syndrome is believed to be 1 in 100,000 deliveries. The pathophysiology of this condition is rupture of alveoli and seepage of air through bronchovascular connective tissue. Diffusion of air to subcutaneous tissues results in subcutaneous emphysema. In most cases, it is a benign condition and resolves spontaneously. In life-threatening cases, a cardiac tamponade can ensue. Chest X-ray is a useful early diagnostic technique. We report a case of a twenty-four-year-old female who was diagnosed with Hamman’s syndrome after prolonged, exhaustive labor.
Importance of Silicon and Mechanisms of Biosilica Formation in Plants
Authors: Sahebi Mahbod , Hanafi Mohamed M. , Siti Nor Akmar Abdullah , Rafii Mohd Y. , Azizi Parisa , Tengoua F. F. , Nurul Mayzaitul Azwa Jamaludin , Shabanimofrad M.
Published: January 2015

Silicon (Si) is one of the most prevalent macroelements, performing an essential function in healing plants in response to environmental stresses. The purpose of using Si is to induce resistance to distinct stresses, diseases, and pathogens. Additionally, Si can improve the condition of soils, which contain toxic levels of heavy metals along with other chemical elements. Silicon minimizes toxicity of Fe, Al, and Mn, increases the availability of P, and enhances drought along with salt tolerance in plants through the formation of silicified tissues in plants. However, the concentration of Si depends on the plants genotype and organisms. Hence, the physiological mechanisms and metabolic activities of plants may be affected by Si application. Peptides as well as amino acids can effectively create polysilicic species through interactions with different species of silicate inside solution. The carboxylic acid and the alcohol groups of serine and asparagine tend not to engage in any significant role in polysilicates formation, but the hydroxyl group side chain can be involved in the formation of hydrogen bond with Si(OH)4. The mechanisms and trend of Si absorption are different between plant species. Furthermore, the transportation of Si requires an energy mechanism; thus, low temperatures and metabolic repressors inhibit Si transportation.
A Case of IFAP Syndrome with Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Araújo Catarina , Gonçalves-Rocha Miguel , Resende Cristina , Vieira Ana Paula , Brito Celeste
Published: January 2015

Introduction.The IFAP syndrome is a rare X-linked genetic disorder characterized by the triad of follicular ichthyosis, atrichia, and photophobia.Case Report.A three-month-old Caucasian, male patient was observed with noncicatricial universal alopecia and persistent eczema from birth. He had dystrophic nails, spiky follicular hyperkeratosis, and photophobia which became apparent at the first year of life. Short stature and psychomotor developmental delay were also noticed. Histopathological examination of skin biopsy on left thigh showed epidermis with irregular acanthosis, lamellar orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis, and hair follicles fulfilled by parakeratotic hyperkeratosis. The chromosomal study showed a karyotype 46, XY. Total IgE was 374 IU/mL. One missense mutation c.1360G>C (p.Ala454Pro) in hemizygosity was detected on theMBTPS2gene thus confirming the diagnosis of IFAP syndrome.Conclusions.We describe a boy with a typical clinical presentation of IFAP syndrome and severe atopic manifestations. A novel missense mutation c.1360G>C (p.Ala454Pro) inMBTPS2gene was observed. The phenotypic expression of disease is quantitatively related to a reduced function of a key cellular regulatory system affecting cholesterol and endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis. It can cause epithelial disturbance with failure in differentiation of epidermal structures and abnormal skin permeability barrier. However, no correlation phenotype/genotype could be established.
Stochastic Simulation on System Reliability and Component Probabilistic Importance of Road Network
Authors: Zhao Xiangyu , Wang Dongwei , Yan Yadan , Gu Ziyuan
Published: January 2015

Because of the combination explosion problem, it is difficult to use probability analytical method to calculate the system reliability of large networks. The paper develops a stochastic simulation (Monte Carlo-based) method to study the system reliability and component probabilistic importance of the road network. The proposed method considers the characteristics of the practical road network as follows: both link (roadway segment) and node (intersection) components are emphasized in the road network; the reliability for a link or node component may be at the in-between state; namely, its reliability value is between 0 and 1. The method is then implemented using the object-oriented programming language C++ and integrated into a RARN-MGG (reliability analysis of road network using Monte Carlo, GIS, and grid) system. Finally, two numerical examples based on a simple road network and a large real road network, respectively, are carried out to characterize the feasibility and to demonstrate the strength of the stochastic simulation method.
Increased Susceptibility to Ethylmercury-Induced Mitochondrial Dysfunction in a Subset of Autism Lymphoblastoid Cell Lines
Authors: Rose Shannon , Wynne Rebecca , Frye Richard E. , Melnyk Stepan , James S. Jill
Published: January 2015

The association of autism spectrum disorders with oxidative stress, redox imbalance, and mitochondrial dysfunction has become increasingly recognized. In this study, extracellular flux analysis was used to compare mitochondrial respiration in lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) from individuals with autism and unaffected controls exposed to ethylmercury, an environmental toxin known to deplete glutathione and induce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. We also tested whether pretreating the autism LCLs with N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) to increase glutathione concentrations conferred protection from ethylmercury. Examination of 16 autism/control LCL pairs revealed that a subgroup (31%) of autism LCLs exhibited a greater reduction in ATP-linked respiration, maximal respiratory capacity, and reserve capacity when exposed to ethylmercury, compared to control LCLs. These respiratory parameters were significantly elevated at baseline in the ethylmercury-sensitive autism subgroup as compared to control LCLs. NAC pretreatment of the sensitive subgroup reduced (normalized) baseline respiratory parameters and blunted the exaggerated ethylmercury-induced reserve capacity depletion. These findings suggest that the epidemiological link between environmental mercury exposure and an increased risk of developing autism may be mediated through mitochondrial dysfunction and support the notion that a subset of individuals with autism may be vulnerable to environmental influences with detrimental effects on development through mitochondrial dysfunction.
Proficient Procedure for Preparation of Quinoline Derivatives Catalyzed by NbCl5 in Glycerol as Green Solvent
Authors: Nasseri Mohammad Ali , Zakerinasab Batol , Kamayestani Sayyede
Published: January 2015

Quinolines, an important class of potentially bioactive compounds, have been synthesized by treatment of o-aminoaryl ketones and carbonyl compound utilizing niobium (V) chloride (NbCl5) as an available and inexpensive catalyst. The quinoline derivatives were prepared in glycerol, an excellent solvent in terms of environmental impact, with high yields (76–98%) and short reaction times (20–90 min). Not only diketones but also ketones afforded the desired products in good to excellent yields. The reaction time of 2-amino-5-chlorobenzophenone and dicarbonyl compounds was longer than that of 2-aminobenzophenone. The reaction of cyclic diketones took place faster than open chain analogues. These reactions also proceeded with acetophenone derivatives. In these cases the reaction times are longer.
Bone Marrow-Derived Multipotent Stromal Cells Promote Myocardial Fibrosis and Reverse Remodeling of the Left Ventricle
Authors: Fatkhudinov Timur , Bolshakova Galina , Arutyunyan Irina , Elchaninov Andrey , Makarov Andrey , Kananykhina Evgeniya , Khokhlova Oksana , Murashev Arkady , Glinkina Valeria , Goldshtein Dmitry , Sukhikh Gennady
Published: January 2015

Cell therapy is increasingly recognized as a beneficial practice in various cardiac conditions, but its fundamentals remain largely unclear. The fates of transplanted multipotent stromal cells in postinfarction cardiac microenvironments are particularly understudied. To address this issue, labeled multipotent stromal cells were infused into rat myocardium at day 30 after myocardial infarction, against the background of postinfarction cardiosclerosis. Therapeutic effects of the transplantation were assessed by an exercise tolerance test. Histological examination at 14 or 30 days after the transplantation was conducted by means of immunostaining and quantitative image analysis. An improvement in the functional status of the cardiovascular system was observed after both the autologous and the allogeneic transplantations. Location of the label-positive cells within the heart was restricted to the affected part of myocardium. The transplanted cells could give rise to fibroblasts or myofibroblasts but not to cardiac myocytes or blood vessel cells. Both types of transplantation positively influenced scarring processes, and no expansion of fibrosis to border myocardium was observed. Left ventricular wall thickening associated with reduced dilatation index was promoted by transplantation of the autologous cells. According to the results, multipotent stromal cell transplantation prevents adverse remodeling and stimulates left ventricular reverse remodeling.
An Extended Affinity Propagation Clustering Method Based on Different Data Density Types
Authors: Zhao XiuLi , Xu WeiXiang
Published: January 2015

Affinity propagation (AP) algorithm, as a novel clustering method, does not require the users to specify the initial cluster centers in advance, which regards all data points as potential exemplars (cluster centers) equally and groups the clusters totally by the similar degree among the data points. But in many cases there exist some different intensive areas within the same data set, which means that the data set does not distribute homogeneously. In such situation the AP algorithm cannot group the data points into ideal clusters. In this paper, we proposed an extended AP clustering algorithm to deal with such a problem. There are two steps in our method: firstly the data set is partitioned into several data density types according to the nearest distances of each data point; and then the AP clustering method is, respectively, used to group the data points into clusters in each data density type. Two experiments are carried out to evaluate the performance of our algorithm: one utilizes an artificial data set and the other uses a real seismic data set. The experiment results show that groups are obtained more accurately by our algorithm than OPTICS and AP clustering algorithm itself.
Activation of Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Enhances Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sun Yong-Xin , Xu Ai-Hua , Yang Yang , Zhang Jia-Xing , Yu Ai-Wen
Published: January 2015

Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) are considered as the most promising cells source for bone engineering. Cannabinoid (CB) receptors play important roles in bone mass turnover. The aim of this study is to test if activation of CB2receptor by chemical agonist could enhance the osteogenic differentiation and mineralization in bone BM-MSCs. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity staining and real time PCR were performed to test the osteogenic differentiation. Alizarin red staining was carried out to examine the mineralization. Small interference RNA (siRNA) was used to study the role of CB2receptor in osteogenic differentiation. Results showed activation of CB2receptor increased ALP activity, promoted expression of osteogenic genes, and enhanced deposition of calcium in extracellular matrix. Knockdown of CB2receptor by siRNA inhibited ALP activity and mineralization. Results of immunofluorescent staining showed that phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase is reduced by knocking down of CB2receptor. Finally, bone marrow samples demonstrated that expression of CB2receptor is much lower in osteoporotic patients than in healthy donors. Taken together, data from this study suggested that activation of CB2receptor plays important role in osteogenic differentiation of BM-MSCs. Lack of CB2receptor may be related to osteoporosis.
INPRO Activities on Development of Advanced Tools to Support Judgment Aggregation for Comparative Evaluation of Nuclear Energy Systems
Authors: Kuznetsov V. , Fesenko G. , Andrianov A. , Kuptsov I.
Published: January 2015

This paper presents first results of the INPRO Collaborative Project on Key Indicators for Innovative Nuclear Energy Systems, which has the objective to develop guidance and tools for comparative evaluation of the status, prospects, benefits, and risks associated with development of innovative nuclear technologies for a more distant future. Presented results illustrate expedience of application of the multicriteria decision analysis methods, which are able to provide the added value to comparative assessment of nuclear energy systems. First, the paper presents a short review of the multicriteria decision analysis methods appropriate to support judgment aggregation within comparative evaluations of nuclear energy systems based on key indicators and highlights the methodology to perform such assessments. Second, a set of key indicators elaborated in the INPRO Collaborative Project on Global Architecture of Innovative Nuclear Energy Systems Based on Thermal and Fast Reactors Including a Closed Fuel Cycle (GAINS) were evaluated for comparative evaluation of nuclear energy system evolution scenarios. Third, a numerical example is presented of application of the selected key indicators, methods, and tools for judgment aggregation in comparative assessment of the GAINS nuclear energy systems.
Antibacterial Activity of Green Synthesis of Iron Nanoparticles UsingLawsonia inermisandGardenia jasminoidesLeaves Extract
Authors: Naseem Tayyaba , Farrukh Muhammad Akhyar
Published: January 2015

Recently, development of reliable experimental protocols for synthesis of metal nanoparticles with desired morphologies and sizes has become a major focus of researchers. Green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles has accumulated an ultimate interest over the last decade due to their distinctive properties that make them applicable in various fields of science and technology. Metal nanoparticles that are synthesized by using plants have emerged as nontoxic and ecofriendly. In this study a very cheap and simple conventional heating method was used to obtain the iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) using the leaves extract ofLawsonia inermisandGardenia jasminoidesplant. The iron nanoparticles were characterized by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The antibacterial activity was studied againstEscherichia coli,Salmonella enterica,Proteus mirabilis, andStaphylococcus aureusby using well-diffusion method.
Changes in Identity after Aphasic Stroke: Implications for Primary Care
Authors: Musser Benjamin , Wilkinson Joanne , Gilbert Thomas , Bokhour Barbara G.
Published: January 2015

Background. Stroke survivors with aphasia experience difficulty associated with their communication disorder. While much has been written about aphasia’s impacts on partners/family, we lack data regarding the psychosocial adjustment of aphasic stroke survivors, with a paucity of data from the patients themselves. Methods. Qualitative study of lived experiences of individuals with poststroke aphasia. Each of the stroke survivors with aphasia completed 3-4 semistructured interviews. In most cases, patients’ partners jointly participated in interviews, which were transcribed and analyzed using techniques derived from grounded theory. Results. 12 patients were interviewed, with the total of 45 interviews over 18 months. Themes included poststroke changes in patients’ relationships and identities, which were altered across several domains including occupational identity, relationship and family roles, and social identity. While all these domains were impacted by aphasia, the impact varied over time. Conclusion. Despite the challenges of interviewing individuals with aphasia, we explored aphasia’s impacts on how individuals experience their identity and develop new identities months and years after stroke. This data has important implications for primary care of patients with aphasia, including the importance of the long-term primary care relationship in supporting psychosocial adjustment to life after aphasic stroke.
Globus Pallidus Internus Deep Brain Stimulation as Rescue Therapy for Refractory Dyskinesias following Effective Subthalamic Nucleus Stimulation
Authors: Cook Raymond J. , Jones Lyndsey , Fracchia George , Anderson Nathan , Miu Jenny , Meagher Linton J. , Silburn Peter A. , Silberstein Paul
Published: January 2015

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) at the subthalamic nucleus (STN) or globus pallidus internus (GPi) can effectively treat the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but dual implantation is rare. We report the first cases of additional GPi stimulation as rescue therapy for disabling dyskinesias following successful STN stimulation. Methods: Two patients, initially treated with bilateral STN DBS, underwent subsequent bilateral GPi DBS after the development of refractory dyskinesias within 1 and 6 years of STN surgery. Patients were evaluated with the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) before and after surgeries for STN and GPi DBS. Results: GPi DBS effectively suppressed dyskinesias in these patients and improved their quality of life, as demonstrated by their videos and UPDRS scores. Conclusions: Additional bilateral GPi DBS may be considered in the rare instance of patients who develop refractory dyskinesias early or late after bilateral STN DBS.
Occipital Post-Traumatic Intradiploic Arachnoid Cyst Converted to Pseudomeningocele after Re-Trauma: A Rare Complication of Rare Pathology
Authors: Jaiswal Manish , Gandhi Ashok , Sharma Achal , Mittal R.S.
Published: January 2015

Background: Growing skull fracture (GSF)/pseudomeningocele is a rare complication of head injury in children. Post-traumatic intradiploic arachnoid cyst (PTIAC) is a variant but it is extremely rare. PTIACs are usually asymptomatic or with mild symptoms like headache. The rupture of PTIAC due to re-trauma leading to pseudomeningocele formation has not been seen or reported before. Patient and Method: We present a case of occipital PTIAC where pseudomeningocele developed after re-trauma, and discuss the pathogenesis and management. Result: En masse removal of the ruptured PTIAC was performed along with dural-defect repair. The post-operative recovery was good. Conclusion: PTIAC is an extremely rare occurrence as a variant of GSF. It is usually asymptomatic, but it may rupture with trivial trauma due to a thinned-out outer table and then converts into pseudomengocele. En masse excision with dural-defect repair gives good results in cases of ruptured PTIAC due to re-trauma.
‘Tree-in-Bud': Thinking beyond Infectious Causes
Authors: Terhalle Elena , Günther Gunar
Published: January 2015

High-resolution computed tomography is an important diagnostic instrument in pneumology. The ‘tree-in-bud' sign is a common finding in HRCT scans. The list of the most frequent differential diagnoses for ‘tree-in-bud' sign includes infections with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, nontuberculous mycobacteria, and other bacterial, fungal, or viral pathogens. Other causes could be immunological, congenital, and idiopathic disorders as well as aspiration or inhalation of toxic agents. Rare differential diagnoses are malignant conditions. We present a case with ‘tree-in-bud' pulmonary infiltrates of chronic lymphatic leukemia which was only diagnosed by transbronchial biopsies, and discuss other differential diagnoses.
Principles of Rehabilitation and Reactivation: Interstitial Lung Disease, Sarcoidosis and Rheumatoid Disease with Respiratory Involvement
Authors: Holland Anne E. , Dowman Leona M. , Hill Catherine J.
Published: January 2015

The interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are characterised by dyspnoea on exertion, exercise-induced hypoxaemia, reduced skeletal muscle function and exercise intolerance. Evidence from nine randomised controlled trials shows that pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity, dyspnoea and quality of life in ILD, with moderately large effect sizes from 0.59 to 0.68. Participants with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the most common and most progressive of the ILDs, achieve benefits in exercise capacity and quality of life that are of equal magnitude to those seen in other ILDs, with effect sizes from 0.59 to 0.75. Whole body exercise training is a core component of pulmonary rehabilitation for ILD. The standard exercise prescription used for other chronic lung diseases is effective in ILD, including 8 weeks of training with at least two supervised sessions per week and at least 30 min of aerobic training per session. However, the unique presentation and underlying pathophysiology of ILD may require modifications of the exercise prescription for individual patients. Those with connective tissue disease may present with joint pain and stiffness that require modification of the standard exercise prescription, including reduction in weight-bearing exercise. Some patients with severe disease may present with distressing dyspnoea that limits the intensity or progression of training. Because exercise-induced hypoxaemia is common in ILD and more severe than seen in other chronic lung diseases, pulmonary rehabilitation should be provided in a setting where supplemental oxygen therapy is available. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer the opportunity to address other critical aspects of ILD care, including management of comorbidities, symptoms and mood.
Clinical and Molecular Heterogeneity in Brazilian Patients with Sotos Syndrome
Authors: Vieira Gustavo H. , Cook Melissa M. , Ferreira De Lima Renata L. , Frigério Domingues Carlos E. , de Carvalho Daniel R. , Soares de Paiva Isaias , Moretti-Ferreira Danilo , Srivastava Anand K.
Published: January 2015

Sotos syndrome (SoS) is a multiple anomaly, congenital disorder characterized by overgrowth, macrocephaly, distinctive facial features and variable degree of intellectual disability. Haploinsufficiency of the NSD1 gene at 5q35.3, arising from 5q35 microdeletions, point mutations, and partial gene deletions, accounts for a majority of patients with SoS. Recently, mutations and possible pathogenetic rare CNVs, both affecting a few candidate genes for overgrowth, have been reported in patients with Sotos-like overgrowth features. To estimate the frequency of NSD1 defects in the Brazilian SoS population and possibly reveal other genes implicated in the etiopathogenesis of this syndrome, we collected a cohort of 21 Brazilian patients, who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for SoS, and analyzed the NSD1 and PTEN genes by means of multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification and mutational screening analyses. We identified a classical NSD1 microdeletion, a novel missense mutation (p.C1593W), and 2 previously reported truncating mutations: p.R1984X and p.V1760Gfs*2. In addition, we identified a novel de novo PTEN gene mutation (p.D312Rfs*2) in a patient with a less severe presentation of SoS phenotype, which did not include pre- and postnatal overgrowth. For the first time, our study implies PTEN in the pathogenesis of SoS and further emphasizes the existence of ethno-geographical differences in NSD1 molecular alterations between patients with SoS from Europe/North America (70-93%) and those from South America (10-19%).
To Treat or Not to Treat?
Authors: Balucani Clotilde , Bianchi Riccardo , Feldmann Edward , Weedon Jeremy , Kolychev Dmitri , Levine Steven R.
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose—

Minor strokes and rapidly improving stroke symptoms are frequent exclusions for intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator. We explored factors influencing tissue-type plasminogen activator treatment decision for minor strokes/rapidly improving stroke symptoms.

Methods—

A pilot survey, including 110 case scenarios, was completed by 17 clinicians from 2 academic medical centers. Respondents were asked whether they would treat each case with tissue-type plasminogen activator at 60 minutes after emergency department admission. Cases varied by (1) National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score at treatment decision time, (2) symptom pattern over time (improvement or worsening and then improving), (3) type of neurological deficit (3 main domains: motor, visual/sensory/ataxia, and language/neglect), and (4) age/occupation (4 profiles). Logistic regression was used to predict probability of omission (pO). A binomial regression model was used to predict probability of treatment decision.

Results—

Predicted probability of treatment decision was affected by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (
P
<0.001) and age/occupation profiles (
P
<0.001) but not by symptom patterns (
P
=0.334). There were significant, albeit modest, main effects on probability of treatment decision for neurological domains. Responses were most likely omitted (
P
=0.027) for cases improvement pattern and language/neglect domain (pO=0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.52–0.89) and with visual/sensory/ataxia domain (pO=0.74; confidence interval, 0.37–0.93) when compared with improvement pattern and motor domain (pO=0.17; confidence interval, 0.06–0.42) and to any worsening and then improving patterns (0.37<pO<0.56).

Conclusions—

This pilot survey provides the first quantitative evidence that National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score is not the only determinant of treatment decision. A National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 2 is the potential equipoise point, with the least consensus on treatment decision. These preliminary findings require validation in larger population surveys.
“Perhaps Irrelevant”
Authors: Perkins Emma L. , Taub Liba
Published: January 2015

When Tycho Brahe published a description of his astronomical instruments in 1598 as part of a strategy to procure royal patronage, it was not with one of his grander, precision measurement tools that he opened his account, but rather a small brass quadrant with limited observational utility. The defining feature of this instrument was seemingly a small emblematic image inscribed within the arc of the quadrant. Through this symbolic motif Tycho conveyed a moralising message about the relative worth of astronomy. Considering a range of visual productions that may have influenced his iconography, the present paper situates the quadrant within the broader context of Renaissance visual culture and examines the significance of the quadrant in Tycho’s wider instrument collection.
Moving Shadows, Moving Sun
Authors: Mersmann Jasmin
Published: January 2015

Irrespective of geo- or heliocentric presuppositions, the functioning of sundials is based on the observation of moving shadows or light spots. Even though the cast shadow was often simply used to indicate the time, it could also remind the users of the ephemerality of earthly things or function as an index of planetary movements. This article examines the various ways in which early modern sundials visually interpret the moving shadow or light spot. The instruments address the shadow in inscriptions, integrate it into their design (e.g. in cruciform dials) or even manipulate its course (as in the so-called Horologium Ahaz). Both the crucifix and the Ahaz dials not only refer to astronomical miracles but actually restage them. Even though by means of the horologium it was not possible to explain the Old Testament miracle of the shadow moving backward, adepts were able to recreate it on a terrestrial scale.
A taxonomic revision of Antillean Symplocos (Symplocaceae)
Authors: Fritsch Peter W , Al Frank
Published: January 2015

We present a taxonomic revision of Symplocos (Symplocaceae, Ericales, Angiospermae) for the Antilles. The seventeen species recognized are distributed among three major clades of the genus corresponding to S. sect. Hopea, S. ser. Symplocos, and S. ser. Urbaniocharis, the latter two comprising S. sect. Symplocos. Fifteen of the species are endemic to the Antilles and only one (S. cubensis) occurs in more than one major island group. The revision includes keys, descriptions, distribution maps, and a conservation assessment for each species. Symplocos baracoensis is described as new, and lectotypes are designated for S. apiculata, S. domingensis, S. guadeloupensis, S. harrisii, S. hyboneura, S. jamaicensis, S. jurgensenii, S. lanata, S. latifolia, S. micrantha, S. pilifera, S. polyantha, S. tubulifera, and S. urbaniana.