bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli Phylogroups Are Associated with Antibiotic Resistance and Duration of Diarrheal Episode
Authors: Mosquito Susan , Pons Maria J. , Riveros Maribel , Ruiz Joaquim , Ochoa Theresa J.
Published: February 2015

Conventionally, in Escherichia coli, phylogenetic groups A and B1 are associated with commensal strains while B2 and D are associated with extraintestinal strains. The aim of this study was to evaluate diarrheagenic (DEC) and commensal E. coli phylogeny and its association with antibiotic resistance and clinical characteristics of the diarrheal episode. Phylogenetic groups and antibiotic resistance of 369 E. coli strains (commensal strains and DEC from children with or without diarrhea) isolated from Peruvian children <1 year of age were determined by a Clermont triplex PCR and Kirby‐Bauer method, respectively. The distribution of the 369 E. coli strains among the 4 phylogenetic groups was A (40%), D (31%), B1 (21%), and B2 (8%). DEC‐control strains were more associated with group A while DEC‐diarrhea strains were more associated with group D (P < 0.05). There was a tendency (P = 0.06) for higher proportion of persistent diarrhea (≥14 days) among severe groups (B2 and D) in comparison with nonsevere groups (A and B1). Strains belonging to group D presented significantly higher percentages of multidrug resistance than the rest of the groups (P > 0.01). In summary, DEC‐diarrhea strains were more associated with group D than strains from healthy controls.
Interface Assignment-Based AODV Routing Protocol to Improve Reliability in Multi-Interface Multichannel Wireless Mesh Networks
Authors: Kim Won-Suk , Chung Sang-Hwa
Published: February 2015

The utilization of wireless mesh networks (WMNs) has greatly increased, and the multi-interface multichannel (MIMC) technic has been widely used for the backbone network. Unfortunately, the ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) routing protocol defined in the IEEE 802.11s standard was designed for WMNs using the single-interface single-channel technic. So, we define a problem that happens when the legacy AODV is used in MIMC WMNs and propose an interface assignment-based AODV (IA-AODV) in order to resolve that problem. IA-AODV, which is based on multitarget path request, consists of the PREQ prediction scheme, the PREQ loss recovery scheme, and the PREQ sender assignment scheme. A detailed operation according to various network conditions and services is introduced, and the routing efficiency and network reliability of a network using IA-AODV are analyzed over the presented system model. Finally, after a real-world test-bed for MIMC WMNs using the IA-AODV routing protocol is implemented, the various indicators of the network are evaluated through experiments. When the proposed routing protocol is compared with the existing AODV routing protocol, it performs the path update using only 14.33% of the management frames, completely removes the routing malfunction, and reduces the UDP packet loss ratio by 0.0012%.
Improved Path Planning and Attitude Control Method for Agile Maneuver Satellite with Double-Gimbal Control Moment Gyros
Authors: Cui Peiling , He Jingxian , Cui Jian , Li Haitao
Published: February 2015

Double-gimbal control moment gyros can implement the satellite attitude maneuver efficiently. In order to reduce the energy consumption of double-gimbal control moment gyros and avoid the singularity state, an attitude maneuver path planning method is proposed by using the improved Fourier basis algorithm. Considering that the choice of the Fourier coefficients is important for the Fourier basis algorithm to converge quickly, a choosing method of the initial Fourier coefficients which can reduce the computational time of the path planning algorithm notably is proposed. Moreover, an attitude-tracking feedback controller based on the Fourier basis path planning algorithm is designed to acquire robustness. Simulation results show that the proposed path planning algorithm can implement attitude maneuver path planning in shortened time. Meanwhile, the feasibility of the attitude-tracking feedback controller which is based on the above path planning algorithm is verified in terms of the low energy consumption, high attitude-tracking precision, and the safe use of double-gimbal control moment gyros.
Drug-Induced Thrombocytopenia following a Transvaginal Oocyte Retrieval for In Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Comstock Ioanna A. , Longmire Michelle , Aster Richard H. , Milki Amin A.
Published: February 2015

Drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia has been associated with hundreds of medications and can lead to devastating consequences for the patient. We present a case of a healthy 33-year-old female undergoing in vitro fertilization who developed a severe drug-induced thrombocytopenia, petechiae, and a large hemoperitoneum after receiving Cefazolin antibiotic prophylaxis for a transvaginal oocyte retrieval. The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit for resuscitation with blood products. The presence of drug-dependent platelet antibodies to Cefazolin was confirmed serologically.
Computer-Aided Assessment of Tumor Grade for Breast Cancer in Ultrasound Images
Authors: Chen Dar-Ren , Chien Cheng-Liang , Kuo Yan-Fu
Published: February 2015

This study involved developing a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system for discriminating the grades of breast cancer tumors in ultrasound (US) images. Histological tumor grades of breast cancer lesions are standard prognostic indicators. Tumor grade information enables physicians to determine appropriate treatments for their patients. US imaging is a noninvasive approach to breast cancer examination. In this study, 148 3-dimensional US images of malignant breast tumors were obtained. Textural, morphological, ellipsoid fitting, and posterior acoustic features were quantified to characterize the tumor masses. A support vector machine was developed to classify breast tumor grades as either low or high. The proposed CAD system achieved an accuracy of 85.14% (126/148), a sensitivity of 79.31% (23/29), a specificity of 86.55% (103/119), and anAZof 0.7940.
One-Year Clinical Evaluation of the Bonding Effectiveness of a One-Step, Self-Etch Adhesive in Noncarious Cervical Lesion Therapy
Authors: Faye Babacar , Sarr Mouhamed , Bane Khaly , Aidara Adjaratou Wakha , Niang Seydina Ousmane , Kane Abdoul Wakhabe
Published: February 2015

This study evaluated the one-year clinical performance of a one-step, self-etch adhesive (Optibond All-in-One, Kerr, CA, USA) combined with a composite (Herculite XRV Ultra, Kerr Hawe, CA, USA) to restore NCCLs with or without prior acid etching. Restorations performed by the same practitioner were evaluated at baseline and after 3, 6, and 12 months using modified USPHS criteria. At 6 months, the recall rate was 100%. The retention rate was 84.2% for restorations with prior acid etching, but statistically significant differences were observed between baseline and 6 months. Without acid etching, the retention rate was 77%, and no statistically significant difference was noted between 3 and 6 months. Marginal integrity (93.7% with and 87.7% without acid etching) and discoloration (95.3% with and 92.9% without acid etching) were scored as Alpha or Bravo, with better results after acid etching. After one year, the recall rate was 58.06%. Loss of pulp vitality, postoperative sensitivity, or secondary caries were not observed. After one year retention rate was of 90.6% and 76.9% with and without acid conditioning. Optibond All-in-One performs at a satisfactory clinical performance level for restoration of NCCLs after 12 months especially after acid etching.
Additive Neuroprotection of a 20-HETE Inhibitor with Delayed Therapeutic Hypothermia after Hypoxia-Ischemia in Neonatal Piglets
Authors: Zhu Junchao , Wang Bing , Lee Jeong-Hoo , Armstrong Jillian S. , Kulikowicz Ewa , Bhalala Utpal S. , Martin Lee J. , Koehler Raymond C. , Yang Zeng-Jin
Published: February 2015

The severity of perinatal hypoxia-ischemia and the delay in initiating therapeutic hypothermia limit the efficacy of hypothermia. After hypoxia-ischemia in neonatal piglets, the arachidonic acid metabolite 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) has been found to contribute to oxidative stress at 3 h of reoxygenation and to eventual neurodegeneration. We tested whether early administration of a 20-HETE synthesis inhibitor after reoxygenation augments neuroprotection with 3-hour delayed hypothermia. In two hypothermic groups, whole body cooling from 38.5 to 34°C was initiated 3 h after hypoxia-ischemia. Rewarming occurred from 20 to 24 h; then anesthesia was discontinued. One hypothermic group received a 20-HETE inhibitor at 5 min after reoxygenation. A sham-operated group and another hypoxia-ischemia group remained normothermic. At 10 days of recovery, resuscitated piglets with delayed hypothermia alone had significantly greater viable neuronal density in the putamen, caudate nucleus, sensorimotor cortex, CA3 hippocampus, and thalamus than did piglets with normothermic recovery, but the values remained less than those in the sham-operated group. In piglets administered the 20-HETE inhibitor before hypothermia, the density of viable neurons in the putamen, cortex and thalamus was significantly greater than in the group with hypothermia alone. Cytochrome P450 4A, which can synthesize 20-HETE, was expressed in piglet neurons in these regions. We conclude that early treatment with a 20-HETE inhibitor enhances the therapeutic benefit of delayed hypothermia in protecting neurons in brain regions known to be particularly vulnerable to hypoxia-ischemia in term newborns.
Diazepam Inhibits Proliferation of Lymph Node Cells Isolated from Rats with Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Fernández Hurst Nicolás , Bibolini Mario J. , Roth German A.
Published: February 2015

Objective: Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease with similarities to human multiple sclerosis involving peripheral activation of autoreactive T cells which infiltrate the central nervous system and react to self antigens leading to damage. In previous studies, we have demonstrated that treatment with diazepam decreases the incidence and histological signs associated with the disease and diminishes immunological responses. The aim of the present work was to evaluate direct effects of diazepam on isolated T cells involved in immune responses during the development of EAE. Methods: Animals were sensitized with whole myelin to induce EAE and sacrificed during the acute phase of the disease. In mononuclear cells isolated from popliteal lymph nodes, cell viability, apoptosis induction, proliferation and cytokine production were evaluated. Results: Diazepam did not have a toxic or proapoptotic effect on the cells, at least up to the concentration of 25 μM, but proliferation, CD8+ T-cell activation and proinflammatory cytokine production were dose-dependently decreased. Conclusions: Diazepam has a direct inhibitory effect on the proliferation and activation of T lymphocytes isolated from the main lymphoid organ involved in disease onset and this could be one of the mechanisms that contribute to the beneficial effect previously observed with diazepam in vivo during EAE development.
Polyvinylidene Fluoride as a Suture Material: Evaluation of Comet Tail-Like Infiltrate and Foreign Body Granuloma
Authors: Lambertz Andreas , Schröder Kai Michael , Schöb Dominik Stefan , Binnebösel Marcel , Anurov Michael , Klinge Uwe , Neumann Ulf Peter , Klink Christian Daniel
Published: February 2015

Background: Biocompatibility and tissue integration of a surgical suture are decisive factors for wound healing and therefore for the success of sutures. The optimal suture material is still under discussion. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is described to have superior properties of biocompatibility and is therefore frequently used as a mesh component. Only little information is available about its use as a suture material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of PVDF as a suture material in comparison to 5 different established sutures in a rat model. Methods: In 30 male rats, a monofilamental PVDF suture (Resopren®) and 5 established control suture materials [polyester (Miralene®), polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore®), poliglecaprone (Monocryl®), polydioxanone (Monoplus®), polyglactin 910 (Vicryl®), USP size 3-0] were placed in the subcutaneous layer of the abdominal wall without knot or tension. After 3, 7 or 21 days, the abdominal walls were explanted for histopathological and immunohistochemical investigation with special regard to the size and quality of foreign body granuloma and the length of the comet tail-like infiltrate (CTI). Results: The PVDF sutures showed the smallest size of foreign body granuloma (60 ± 14 µm) and the smallest CTI length (343 ± 60 µm) of all polymers after 21 days. Only PVDF (Resopren) and polydioxanone (Monoplus) showed a significant collagen I/III ratio increase between days 3 and 21 (p = 0.009 and p = 0.016). The quality of foreign body reaction regarding inflammation, proliferation and fibrotic remodeling was similar between all suture materials. Conclusions: Our data indicate that monofilamental PVDF sutures show a favorable foreign body reaction with small granuloma sizes and CTI length in comparison to established sutures. Its use as a suture material in general surgery could therefore be extended in the future. To reinforce these findings, further clinical studies need to be conducted.
Phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-Triphosphate and Cellular Signaling: Implications for Obesity and Diabetes
Authors: Manna Prasenjit , Jain Sushil K.
Published: February 2015

Phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3) is one of the most important phosphoinositides and is capable of activating a wide range of proteins through its interaction with their specific binding domains. Localization and activation of these effector proteins regulate a number of cellular functions, including cell survival, proliferation, cytoskeletal rearrangement, intracellular vesicle trafficking, and cell metabolism. Phosphoinositides have been investigated as an important agonist-dependent second messenger in the regulation of diverse physiological events depending upon the phosphorylation status of their inositol group. Dysregulation in formation as well as metabolism of phosphoinositides is associated with various pathophysiological disorders such as inflammation, allergy, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and metabolic diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated that the impaired metabolism of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 is a prime mediator of insulin resistance associated with various metabolic diseases including obesity and diabetes. This review examines the current status of the role of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 signaling in the regulation of various cellular functions and the implications of dysregulated PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 signaling in obesity, diabetes, and their associated complications.
Glycyrrhizin Ameliorates Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-like Skin Lesions in BALB/c Mice and Inhibits TNF-a-Induced ICAM-1 Expression via NF-κB/MAPK in HaCaT Cells
Authors: Xiong Hui , Xu Ying , Tan Guozhen , Han Yanfang , Tang Zengqi , Xu Wenying , Zeng Fanqin , Guo Qing
Published: February 2015

Background/Aim: Glycyrrhizin (GL) is an important derivative of certain herbal medicines used in Asian countries. Currently, GL is used to treat hepatitis and allergic disease worldwide because of its anti-viral and anti-allergy effects. In addition to these prominent functions, GL likely regulates cellular functions such as tumor cell growth and cellular immunity. However, how GL affects the keratinocyte inflammation response remains poorly understood. The current paper investigates the effect of GL on psoriasis and explores the mechanisms involved. Methods: We used an in vitro cell model of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a-induced keratinocyte inflammation and the topical application of imiquimod (IMQ) using an animal model (mouse skin) of IMQ-induced psoriasis-like inflammation (IPI) to investigate the effect of GL on skin inflammation. Cell viability was analyzed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8). Carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) labeling was used to trace monocyte adherence to keratinocytes. A Western blot analysis was used to detect the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) and the activation of the nuclear factor (NF)-κB/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. A modified version of the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) was used to monitor disease severity. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was used to observe pathological changes. An immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis was used to detect ICAM-1 expression in mouse skin. Results: GL treatment significantly reduced the levels of ICAM-1 in TNF-a-stimulated HaCaT cells, inhibited subsequent monocyte adhesion to keratinocytes, and suppressed the nuclear translation and phosphorylation of p65 following the degradation of inhibitor κB (IκB). GL treatment blocked the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/p38 MAPK. GL effectively delayed the onset of IPI in mice and ameliorated ongoing IPI, thereby reducing ICAM-1 expression in epidermal tissues. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that GL treatment ameliorates skin inflammation by inhibiting ICAM-1 expression via interference with the ERK/p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in keratinocytes. Therefore, GL can be used as an anti-psoriasis drug.
Ancient Authorities Intertwined
Authors: Ando Clifford , McGinness Anne , MacCormack Sabine G.
Published: February 2015

The article surveys and interprets the works produced by José de Acosta during his years in the New World and his revisions of, and additions to, those works after his return to Europe. Elucidating Acosta’s engagements with both Scripture and classical literature, the essay urges respect for the various religious, intellectual, and metaphysical commitments that structured Acosta’s arguments. Particular attention is given to Acosta’s wrestling with the limits of ancient geographic knowledge, on the one hand, and to his efforts to understand religion in the New World in light of ancient evidence of knowledge of God before Christianity and patristic essays on the conversion of the ancient Mediterranean.
Staging Democracy and Multiculturalism
Authors: Nakatani Sanae
Published: February 2015

This article examines the critical role Hawai‘i’s Japanese American diaspora played at the 1970 Osaka Exposition in facilitating a Hawai‘i-Japan economic partnership and disseminating messages of Hawai‘i’s multiculturalism and democracy to local and international audiences. White and Japanese American male government officials and members of the Governor’s Citizen Advisory Committee for the Expo emphasized the large Japanese American population in Hawai‘i as well as the cultural hybridity of their state in order to make the Japanese audience—potential tourists and investors—feel welcome. The main “spectacle” of the Hawai‘i pavilion featured a group of hostesses—primarily of Japanese American ancestry—who daily danced the hula. While the hostesses graciously performed the femininity and aloha that were expected of them, they also articulated their ethnic identities by educating the Japanese about the Japanese diaspora and its contributions to the fiftieth state of the United States.
Rhynchosia ganesanii, a new name for Rhynchosia fischeri P. Satyanar. & Thoth. (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae), from India
Authors: KOTTAIMUTHU RAMALINGAM , VASUDEVAN NATARAJAN
Published: February 2015

A new name Rhynchosia ganesanii is proposed to replace Rhynchosia fischeri P. Satyanar. & Thoth., which is an illegitimate later homonym of R. fischeri Harms.
Legousia snogerupii (Campanulaceae), a new species from southeastern Kiklades, Greece
Authors: Tan Kit , Biel Burkhard , Sfikas Giorgos
Published: February 2015

Legousia snogerupii (Campanulaceae) from the islands of southeastern Kiklades, Greece is described as a species new to science and illustrated by photographs. It bears some morphological similarity to and had previously been confused with L. speculum-veneris which is absent from the area. Its affinities are, however, closer to L. pentagonia, rather common in the Kiklades. Morphological characteristics and information on ecology and distribution are provided and the three taxa compared.
Considerations on the genus Schizachyrium (Poaceae–Andropogoneae) in Central America and West Indies, and confirmation of the occurrence of S. glaziovii
Authors: Welker Cassiano Aimberê Dorneles , Peichoto Myriam Carolina
Published: February 2015

Schizachyrium (Poaceae–Andropogoneae) includes ca. 60 species, 10 of them previously cited for Central America and 13 for West Indies. The confirmation of the occurrence of Schizachyrium glaziovii in these regions is reported here, expanding its northern limit of distribution to Guatemala and Belize. The species was previously accepted only for South America. We provide a description of the species, a distribution map, and a key to distinguish it from S. microstachyum and S. condensatum, species whose circumscriptions are confused in floras of Central America and West Indies. Taxonomic comments, illustrations of the type materials and images of the three species are also provided. A revised synonymy of S. glaziovii is presented and a lectotype for Andropogon condensatus subsp. elongatus (a synonym of Schizachyrium glaziovii) is designated here.
A haplotype map of allohexaploid wheat reveals distinct patterns of selection on homoeologous genomes
Authors: Jordan Katherine W , Wang Shichen , Lun Yanni , Gardiner Laura-Jayne , MacLachlan Ron , Hucl Pierre , Wiebe Krysta , Wong Debbie , Forrest Kerrie L ,   IWGS Consortium, Sharpe Andrew G , Sidebottom Christine HD , Hall Neil , Toomajian Christopher , Close Timothy , Dubcovsky Jorge , Akhunova Alina , Talbert Luther , Bansal Urmil K , Bariana Harbans S , Hayden Matthew J , Pozniak Curtis , Jeddeloh Jeffrey A , Hall Anthony , Akhunov Eduard
Published: February 2015

Background

Bread wheat is an allopolyploid species with a large, highly repetitive genome. To investigate the impact of selection on variants distributed among homoeologous wheat genomes and to build a foundation for understanding genotype-phenotype relationships, we performed population-scale re-sequencing of a diverse panel of wheat lines.

Results

A sample of 62 diverse lines was re-sequenced using the whole exome capture and genotyping-by-sequencing approaches. We describe the allele frequency, functional significance, and chromosomal distribution of 1.57 million single nucleotide polymorphisms and 161,719 small indels. Our results suggest that duplicated homoeologous genes are under purifying selection. We find contrasting patterns of variation and inter-variant associations among wheat genomes; this, in addition to demographic factors, could be explained by differences in the effect of directional selection on duplicated homoeologs. Only a small fraction of the homoeologous regions harboring selected variants overlapped among the wheat genomes in any given wheat line. These selected regions are enriched for loci associated with agronomic traits detected in genome-wide association studies.

Conclusions

Evidence suggests that directional selection in allopolyploids rarely acted on multiple parallel advantageous mutations across homoeologous regions, likely indicating that a fitness benefit could be obtained by a mutation at any one of the homoeologs. Additional advantageous variants in other homoelogs probably either contributed little benefit, or were unavailable in populations subjected to directional selection. We hypothesize that allopolyploidy may have increased the likelihood of beneficial allele recovery by broadening the set of possible selection targets.
Tramadol half life is dose dependent in overdose
Authors: Khosrojerdi Hamid , Alipour Talesh Ghazal , Danaei Gholam Hassan , Shokooh Saremi Sara , Adab Afrouz , Afshari Reza
Published: February 2015

Background

Tramalol overdose is disproportionately more common in Iran. In recent years, Tramadol overdose has become one of the most common causes of poisoning admissions to emergency departments in this country. To the best of our knowledge, there is little or no information regarding the toxicokinetic properties of Tramadol such as its half life. Given the fact that poisoning management should be based on the toxicokinetic of substances, we aimed at investigating the half life of Tramadol in man as a critical toxicokinetic variable in overdose.

Methods

Blood samples of each patient were collected on admission and repeated later. Plasma was harvested after separation from blood cells by centrifugation and quantified using HPLC method. Calculations were performed on Tramadol blood concentration quantities.

Findings

Demographic: Most of cases were men (81.81%). Mean (Standard Deviation (SD), min-max) age was 23 (8.142, 17-40). Serum Tramadol levels: Mean (SD, min-max) first Tramadol concentration was 786.91 (394.53, 391-1495). Mean (SD, min-max) second Tramadol concentration was 433.09 (269.63, 148-950). Mean (SD, min-max) of Tramadol half life was calculated as 9.24 hour (2.310, 4.99-13.45) Associations: Half life was associated with higher concentrations (r=0.708 Sig=0.015).

Conclusion

We report the mean half life of tramadol in overdose to be 9.24 hours which is remarkably higher than that measured in previous pharmacokinetic studies. We also concluded that Tramadol half life is dose dependent in overdose which may explain the further consequences of severe overdoses.
Elucidating the Links Between Endocrine Disruptors and Neurodevelopment
Authors: Schug Thaddeus T. , Blawas Ashley M. , Gray Kimberly , Heindel Jerrold J. , Lawler Cindy P.
Published: February 2015

Recent data indicate that approximately 12% of children in the United States are affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. Accumulating evidence indicates a multifactorial etiology for these disorders, with social, physical, genetic susceptibility, nutritional factors, and chemical toxicants acting together to influence risk. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during the early stages of life can disrupt normal patterns of development and thus alter brain function and disease susceptibility later in life. This article highlights research efforts and pinpoints approaches that could shed light on the possible associations between environmental chemicals that act on the endocrine system and compromised neurodevelopmental outcomes.
rpS6 Regulates Blood-Testis Barrier Dynamics Through Arp3-Mediated Actin Microfilament Organization in Rat Sertoli Cells. An In Vitro Study
Authors: Mok Ka-Wai , Chen Haiqi , Lee Will M. , Cheng C. Yan
Published: February 2015

In the seminiferous epithelium of rat testes, preleptotene spermatocytes residing in the basal compartment are transported across the blood-testis barrier (BTB) to enter the adluminal compartment at stage VIII of the epithelial cycle. This process involves redistribution of tight junction (TJ) proteins via reorganization of actin cytoskeleton in Sertoli cells that serves as attachment site for adhesion protein complexes. Ribosomal protein S6 (rpS6), a downstream molecule of mTORC1 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1), participates in this process via a yet-to-be defined mechanism. Here, we constructed an rpS6 quadruple phosphomimetic mutant by converting Ser residues at 235, 236, 240, and 244 to Glu via site-directed mutagenesis, making this mutant constitutively active. When this rpS6 mutant was overexpressed in Sertoli cells cultured in vitro with an established TJ barrier mimicking the BTB in vivo, it perturbed the TJ permeability by down-regulating and redistributing TJ proteins at the cell-cell interface. These changes are mediated by a reorganization of actin microfilaments, which was triggered by a redistribution of activated actin-related protein 3 (Arp3) as well as changes in Arp3-neuronal Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome protein (N-WASP) interaction. This in turn induced reorganization of actin microfilaments, converting them from a “bundled” to an “unbundled/branched” configuration, concomitant with a reduced actin bundling activity, thereby destabilizing the TJ-barrier function. These changes were mediated by Akt (transforming oncogene of v-akt), because an Akt knockdown by RNA interference was able to mimic the phenotypes of rpS6 mutant overexpression at the Sertoli cell BTB. In summary, this study illustrates a mechanism by which mTORC1 signal complex regulates BTB function through rpS6 downstream by modulating actin organization via the Arp2/3 complex, which may be applicable to other tissue barriers.
Continuous subcutaneous infusion in palliative care: a review of current practice
Authors: Thomas Tabitha , Barclay Stephen
Published: February 2015

Syringe drivers are widely used in palliative care, and this article reviews the challenges and outstanding questions associated with their use. Misperceptions among the lay public and some health professionals can be addressed by sensitive communication with patients and families and clear thinking in clinical teams concerning the drugs and doses used, particularly in non-malignant disease. Good levels of knowledge concerning syringe driver use has been found among GPs and community nurses, although this is not the case in some nursing home teams. The advantages of newer devices, safety and efficacy of drug combinations, selection of diluent, and management of site reactions are discussed.
Effects of Chemical Structure on the Stability of Smectites in Short-Term Alteration Experiments
Authors: Nguyen-Thanh Lan , Herbert Horst-Jürgen , Kasbohm Jörn , Hoang-Minh Thao , Mählmann Rafael Ferreiro
Published: February 2015

Because of their isolating capacity, smectite-rich clays have been proposed as buffer and backfill materials in high-level radioactive waste repositories. These repositories have to guarantee long-term safety for ~1 million years. Thermodynamics and kinetics of possible alteration processes of bentonite determine its long-term performance as a barrier material. Smectites in 25 different clays and bentonites were investigated in order to identify possible differences in their rates of alteration. These samples were saturated for 30 days in 1 M NaCl solution and deionized water, and then overhead rotated at speeds of 20 rpm and 60 rpm. Depending on the octahedral and interlayer composition, each of the smectites studied had specific rate of alteration, a so-called specific dissolution potential of smectite. The bentonites were classed as ‘slow-reacting bentonite’, ‘moderate-reacting bentonite’, or ‘fast-reacting bentonite’ corresponding to a relatively low (ΔP specific dissolution potential — <-5%), moderate (-5% < ΔP < -20%), or high specific dissolution potential (ΔP > -20%), respectively. The larger the amount of octahedral Fe and Mg compared to octahedral Al, the greater the specific dissolution potential. The present study found that the interlayer composition has a discernible impact on the rate of alteration. In experiments with rotation speeds of 60 rpm and a 1 M NaCl solution, Na+ was found to be the stabilizing cation in the interlayers of all the smectites. The Na-stabilizing mechanism was identified in only some of the smectites (type A) in experiments with 20 rpm (1 M NaCl solution). A second stabilization mechanism (by interlayer cations; Ca and Mg) was identified for other smectites (type B). Each bentonite has a specific rate of alteration. ‘Slow-reacting bentonite’ and clay with smectite-illite interstratifications are recommended as potential clay barriers in HLW repositories. The experimental and analytical procedures described here could be applied to potential barrier materials to identify ‘slow-reacting bentonite’.
Autism and Families' Financial Burden: The Association With Health Insurance Coverage
Authors: Parish Susan L. , Thomas Kathleen C. , Williams Christianna S. , Crossman Morgan K.
Published: February 2015

We examined the relationship between family financial burden and children's health insurance coverage in families (n  =  316) raising children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), using pooled 2000–2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data. Measures of family financial burden included any out-of-pocket spending in the previous year, and spending as a percentage of families' income. Families spent an average of $9.70 per $1,000 of income on their child's health care costs. Families raising children with private insurance were more than 5 times as likely to have any out-of-pocket spending compared to publicly insured children. The most common out-of-pocket expenditure types were medications, outpatient services, and dental care. This study provides evidence of the relative inadequacy of private insurance in meeting the needs of children with ASD.
Crisis and creativity: The new cinemas of Portugal, Greece and Spain
Authors: Kourelou Olga , Liz Mariana , Vidal Belén
Published: February 2015

This article examines the new cinemas, film cultures and discourses emerging from three of the film-producing nations most adversely affected by the Eurozone crisis. Through case studies arising from Portugal, Greece and Spain, the article explores the enhanced visibility of independent film-making at a time in which the role and the very survival of the state-subsidized film industries in recession Europe has been crucially thrown into question. This comparative analysis suggests, conversely, the cyclical nature of the discourse of crisis and explores the creative responses mobilized by European cinema.
White Dwarfs in Cataclysmic Variables: An Update
Authors: Sion E. M. , Godon P.
Published: February 2015

In this review, we summarize what is currently known about the surface temperatures of accreting white dwarfs in nonmagnetic and magnetic cataclysmic variables (CVs) based upon synthetic spectral analyses of far ultraviolet data. We focus only on white dwarf surface temperatures, since in the area of chemical abundances, rotation rates, WD masses and accretion rates, relatively little has changed since our last review, pending the results of a large HST GO program
involving 48 CVs of different CV types. The surface temperature of the white dwarf in SS Cygni is re-examined in the light of its revised distance. We also discuss new HST spectra of the recurrent nova T Pyxidis as it transitioned into quiescence following its April 2011 nova outburst.
CVs Around the Minimum Orbital Period
Authors: Zharikov S. , Tovmassian G.
Published: February 2015

We discussed features of Cataclysmic Variables at the period minimum. In general, most of them must be WZ Sge-type objects. Main characteristics of the prototype star (WZ Sge) are discussed. A part of WZ Sge-type objects has evolved past the period limit and formed the bounce back systems. We also explore conditions and structure of accretion disks in such systems. We show that the accretion disk in a system with extreme mass ratio grows in size reaching a 2:1 resonance radius and are relatively cool. They also become largely optically thin in the continuum, contributing to the total flux less than the stellar components of the system. In contrast, the viscosity and the temperature in spiral arms formed at the outer edge of the disk are higher and their contribution in continuum plays an increasingly important role. We model such disks and generate light curves which successfully simulate the observed double-humped light curves in the quiescence.
On the Influence of Magnetic Field on Accretion Processes in CVs
Authors: Bisikalo D. V. , Zhilkin A. G.
Published: February 2015

We consider the influence of such parameters as the value of the proper magnetic field Ba and the spin-rotation velocity of the white dwarf on accretion processes in CVs. The results of 3D MHD simulations have shown that the accretion rate is a non-monotonic function of Ba: with growing Ba it raises in the intermediate polars and decreases in the polars. The maximal accretion rate occurs in the systems, transiting from the stage of intermediate polars to polars; it’s value reaches 60% of the initially set mass transfer rate. We have also shown that the acretion rate decreases with the growing
spin-rotation velocity of the white dwarf.
AE Aquarii: A Short Review
Authors: Meintjes P. J. , Odendaal A. , Van Heerden H.
Published: February 2015

The nova-like variable AE Aquarii has been continuously studied since its discovery on photographic plates in 1934. In this short review the peculiar multi-wavelength properties of AE Aquarii will be reviewed and explained in context of its evolution from a high mass transfer phase, during which period it could have been a supersoft X-ray source (SSS).
Observing CVs and LMXBs with SALT: Updates and Recent Results
Authors: Buckley David A. H.
Published: February 2015

I present an overview of the ongoing observational programs utilizing the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), focussing on magnetic Cataclysmic Variables and Low Mass X-ray Binaries. SALT’s instruments and capabilities are well suited to time resolved studies of the accretion phenomena exhibited in these systems. Initial observations, using SALTICAM, have been used to derive high time resolution (~100ms) eclipse light curves, with high signal-to-noise, of Polars. Recently this work has been extended to time resolved spectroscopic studies, utilizing the SALT Robert Stobie Spectrograph (RSS), allowing an opportunity to probe how the emission lines change during eclipse. A program to search for and characterize quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) in magnetic CVs using the SAAO 1.9-m telescope, begun in 2012, has been expanded to include observations with a photon counting camera (BVIT) on SALT. A multi-longitude campaign involving SALT, other SAAO facilities plus the ESO NTT, was carried out in March/April 2012 on the enigmatic gamma ray source, XSS J12270–4859, which has revealed the that system exhibits spectral line variations, from absorption to emission, seemingly over timescales of < 1 h.
Outburst Properties of V1504 Cyg and V344 Lyr
Authors: Cannizzo J. K.
Published: February 2015

I begin by reviewing dwarf novae and the disk instability theory, and then present an overview of three ideas for producing superoutbursts in the SU UMa stars − the thermal tidal instability, irradiation-induced secondary mass overflow, and the plain vanilla disk limit cycle instability. I discuss the properties of the outbursts in two SU UMa systems observed by Kepler in the context of the three theories. I conclude with a look beyond the SU UMa systems.
Detection of Diatomic Molecules in the Dust Forming Nova V2676 Oph
Authors: Nagashima M. , Arai A. , Kajikawa T. , Kawakita H. , Kitao E. , Arasaki T. , Taguchi G. , Ikeda Y.
Published: February 2015

Novae are generally considered to be hot astronomical objects and show effective temperatures up to 10,000 K or higher at their visual maximum. But, it is theoretically predicted that the outer envelope of the nova outflow can become cool enough to form molecules that would be dissociated at high temperatures. We detected strong absorption bands of C2 and CN radicals in the optical spectrum of Nova V2676 Oph, a very slow nova with dust formation. This is the first report of the detection of C2 and the second one of CN in novae during outburst. Although such simple molecules are predicted to form in the envelope of the outflow based on previous studies, there are few reports of their detection. In the case of V2676 Oph, the presence of the molecular envelope is considered to be very transient, lasting several days only.
Life After Eruption: Best of 2009–2013
Authors: Tappert C. , Ederoclite A. , Schmidtobreick L. , Vogt N.
Published: February 2015

From our ongoing survey to study the post-nova population we present details on the four objects V728 Sco, AR Cir, V972 Oph and X Cir.
Optical Low Resolution Spectroscopic Observations of T Pyx during the Early Phase of 2011 Outburst
Authors: Arai A. , Isogai M. , Yamanaka M. , Akitaya H. , Uemura M.
Published: February 2015

We report on the results of our low resolution spectroscopic observations during the 2011 outburst of the recurrent nova T Pyx. Our observations were performed from 0.19 days to 34 days after the eruption discovered by M. Linnolt. We found Wolf-Rayet like features in our spectrum during the initial rising phase on t = 0.19 d. Following spectral developments are consistent with previous works. We discuss that the early phase of T Pyx is divided into three stages, a short lived WR-like stage, He/N stage and Fe II stage.
What Powers the 2006 Outburst of the Symbiotic Star BF Cygni?
Authors: Skopal A. , Sekeráš M. , Tomov N. A. , Tomova M. T. , Tarasova T. N. , Wolf M.
Published: February 2015

BF Cygni is a classical symbiotic binary. Its optical light curve occasionally shows outbursts of the Z And-type, whose nature is not well understood. During the 2006 August, BF Cyg underwent the recent outburst, and continues its active phase to the present. The aim of this contribution is to determine the fundamental parameters of the hot component in the binary during the active phase. For this purpose we used a high- and low-resolution optical spectroscopy and the multicolour UBV RCIC photometry. Our photometric monitoring revealed that a high level of the star’s brightness lasts for unusually long time of > 7 years. A sharp violet-shifted absorption component and broad emission wings in the Hα profile developed during the whole active phase. From 2009, our spectra revealed a bipolar ejection from the white dwarf (WD). Modelling the spectral energy distribution (SED) of the low-resolution spectra showed simultaneous presence of a warm (< 10 000 K) disk-like pseudophotosphere and a strong nebular component of radiation (emission measure of ~1061 cm−3). The luminosity of the hot active object was estimated to > 5−8×103 Lʘ. Such high luminosity, sustained for the time of years, can be understood as a result of an enhanced transient accretion rate throughout a large disk, leading also to formation of collimated ejection from the WD.
Who Discovered the Hoyle Level?
Authors: Shaviv G.
Published: February 2015

The prediction of Hoyle that the nucleus of 12C must have a resonance at 7.62MeV was the trigger to the Anthropic Principle. We review the history of the discovery of this level and investigate to what extent this was a genuine prediction.
Co-forming real space blends in tactile signed language dialogues
Authors: Mesch Johanna , Raanes Eli , Ferrara Lindsay
Published: February 2015

This article reports on a linguistic study examining the use of real space blending in the tactile signed languages of Norwegian and Swedish signers who are both deaf and blind. Tactile signed languages are typically produced by interactants in contact with each other’s hands while signing. Of particular interest to this study are utterances which not only consist of the signer producing signs with his or her own hands (or other body parts), but which also recruit the other interactant’s hands (or another body part). These utterances, although perhaps less frequent, are co-constructed, in a very real sense, and they illustrate meaning construction during emerging, embodied discourse. Here, we analyze several examples of these types of utterances from a cognitive linguistic and cognitive semiotic perspective to explore how interactants prompt meaning construction through touch and the involvement of each other’s bodies during a particular type of co-regulation.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance in PbTe–PbS Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhao Yu , Maurya Deepam , Miner Andrew , Khodaparast Giti A. , Priya Shashank
Published: February 2015

In this study, we investigate the changes occurring in the microstructure and thermoelectric properties of PbTe0.9S0.1 alloy (PbTe–PbS) under varying thermal treatment conditions. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies were utilized to reveal the distribution of nano-precipitates in the annealed alloy. PbTe0.9S0.1 alloy with PbS phase precipitates displayed a significant reduction in the thermal conductivity and an enhancement in the Seebeck coefficient. The 47% reduction in lattice thermal conductivity at the measurement temperature of 300°C in the alloy annealed at 400°C was attributed to the phonon scattering occurring due to the presence of nano-precipitates. The annealed alloy displayed higher electrical conductivity at room temperature than that of the alloy without annealing. The maximum figure of merit, ZT, was found to be 0.76 at 300°C in the alloy annealed at 400°C.
Reduced numbers of peripheral blood CD27+ IgD– memory B cells in patients with aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Jentsch Holger , Purschwitz Regina , Stingu Catalina Suzana , Schmidt Jana , Sack Ulrich
Published: February 2015

Aggressive periodontitis (AgP) is a multifactorial disease with unknown association to the development and function of peripheral lymphocytes. The aim of this study was to elucidate a connection between the periodontal condition in 10 patients with AgP and their potential state of immunodeficiency. Based on full periodontal examination and radiographs, 10 females (ages 29.8±8.62 years) with established diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis were included in this study. Flow cytometric analysis revealed substantial reduction of switched memory B cells (IgM–, IgD–, CD27+) in 9 of 10 patients, whereas numbers of naïve, IgM+ memory, transitional, and activated B cells were normal. Serum levels of IgM, IgG, IgA, and subclasses were normal. In vitro differentiation of B cells showed normal amounts of secreted IgG and IgA at day 5 of culture. Our results indicate that lowered numbers of switched memory B cells – typically referred to the state of common variable immunodeficiency type I (Freiburg classification) – are unlikely to influence immunoglobulin serum levels or clinical anamnesis of our patients with AgP. Lipopolysaccharide-induced elevated levels of IL-1β and IL-8 and lowering of IL-4 are more likely to trigger a pro-inflammatory circle that attracts lymphocytes to local pockets of aggressive periodontitis.
Potential applications of curcumin and curcumin nanoparticles: from traditional therapeutics to modern nanomedicine
Authors: Rai Mahendra , Pandit Raksha , Gaikwad Swapnil , Yadav Alka , Gade Aniket
Published: February 2015

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) is one of the potent, nontoxic, and major bioactive components present in turmeric. The major drawbacks of curcumin are low absorption and poor bioavailability. The present review highlights on the methods for the fabrication of curcumin nanoparticles and their applications in treatment of cancer and wound infections. Curcumin nanoparticles possess remarkable antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoan activity. Hence, curcumin nanoparticle-loaded nano-gel, microemulsion, and nano-cream can be used for drug delivery.
Ferroelectricity in Strategically Synthesized Pb-free LiNbO3-type ZnSnO3Nanostructure Arrayed Thick Films
Authors: Datta Anuja , Mukherjee Devajyoti , Kons Corisa , Witanachchi Sarath , Mukherjee Pritish
Published: February 2015

We report the evidence of ferroelectricity from LN-type ZnSnO3nanostructure arrayed thick films (10 - 20 µm) on Si with remanent polarization value as high as ≈ 30 µC/cm2in nanowire arrays. A combined pulsed-laser deposition (PLD) technique and a solvothermal synthesis scheme was adopted to effectively synthesize the nanostructured samples assisted by conducting ZnO template-layers. The similar crystal symmetry and comparable lattice parameter between ZnO and LN-type ZnSnO3facilitated the dense growth of high-quality ZnSnO3nanostructure arrays in the form of one-dimensional vertical nanowires, nanorods and two-dimensional nanoflakes. The strategic synthesis method allowed controlled tunability of the morphology, crystallinity, and packing density of ZnSnO3nanostructures, which in turn facilitated the measurement of ferroelectric (FE) properties using a simple sandwich-device geometry. Analyses of the FE properties in relation to the structures are presented and their potential for designing future Pb-free FE devices for non-volatile memory applications is discussed.