bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating tendon mineralisation in the avian hindlimb: a model for tendon ageing, injury and disease
Authors: Agabalyan Natacha A. , Evans Darrell J. R. , Stanley Rachael L.
Published: July 2013

Mineralisation of the tendon tissue has been described in various models of injury, ageing and disease. Often resulting in painful and debilitating conditions, the processes underlying this mechanism are poorly understood. To elucidate the progression from healthy tendon to mineralised tendon, an appropriate model is required. In this study, we describe the spontaneous and non‐pathological ossification and calcification of tendons of the hindlimb of the domestic chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus). The appearance of the ossified avian tendon has been described previously, although there have been no studies investigating the developmental processes and underlying mechanisms leading to the ossified avian tendon. The tissue and cells from three tendons – the ossifying extensor and flexor digitorum longus tendons and the non‐ossifying Achilles tendon – were analysed for markers of ageing and mineralisation using histology, immunohistochemistry, cytochemistry and molecular analysis. Histologically, the adult tissue showed a loss of healthy tendon crimp morphology as well as markers of calcium deposits and mineralisation. The tissue showed a lowered expression of collagens inherent to the tendon extracellular matrix and presented proteins expressed by bone. The cells from the ossified tendons showed a chondrogenic and osteogenic phenotype as well as tenogenic phenotype and expressed the same markers of ossification and calcification as the tissue. A molecular analysis of the gene expression of the cells confirmed these results. Tendon ossification within the ossified avian tendon seems to be the result of an endochondral process driven by its cells, although the roles of the different cell populations have yet to be elucidated. Understanding the role of the tenocyte within this tissue and the process behind tendon ossification may help us prevent or treat ossification that occurs in injured, ageing or diseased tendon.
Nurses' knowledge of chest drain management in an Irish Children's Hospital
Authors: Magner Claire , Houghton Catherine , Craig Margie , Cowman Seamus
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore contact with and knowledge regarding chest drain management among nurses.

Background

Chest drains are commonly used in both adult and paediatric settings, for example, for cardiothoracic patients or postspinal surgery, where they are inserted intra‐operatively to drain excess fluid. Despite a large number of children requiring chest drain insertion annually, current literature suggests that many nurses have reduced contact with chest drains and a knowledge deficit regarding their management. Furthermore, the literature is limited in relation to chest drain management in the paediatric patient. Mismanagement of chest drains can have devastating consequences for patients.

Design

A standardised descriptive survey approach was employed.

Methods

The sample consisted of 121 critical care and ward nurses from a large urban paediatric hospital, who cared for chest drains on a regular basis. Data were collected using a 37‐item questionnaire, adapted from a study in the adult setting. Statistical analysis was performed using spss V15.

Results

The findings demonstrate that increased exposure to caring for children with chest drains is synonymous with a greater perception of knowledge levels in this area of practice. While critical care nurses looked after children with chest drains more frequently than ward nurses, there was no difference in the knowledge assessment section of the questionnaire. This research identified where knowledge deficits exist.

Conclusions

This study identified the key areas where overall uncertainties existed leading to a decreased knowledge perception. Nurses are engaging with methods of knowledge acquisition; however, those who have less contact with chest drains require regular updates.

Relevance to clinical practice

Addressing misconceptions about chest drain management is imperative. Providing up to date guidelines in clinical areas will improve chest drain management. Strategic educational initiatives are in place to ensure identified knowledge deficits are addressed and a complete revision of chest drain guidelines has been undertaken.
Somatic symptoms, psychological distress and sleep disturbance among infertile women with intrauterine insemination treatment
Authors: Lin Jia‐Ling , Lin Ya‐Hui , Chueh Ke‐Hsin
Published: July 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore sleep quality in infertile women and examine the factors that contribute to sleep disturbances during intrauterine insemination treatment.

Background

Sleep disturbance is an important factor of human health and well‐being. Sleep disturbances tend to occur among infertile women during intrauterine insemination treatment. Although many studies have focused on the high percentage of somatic symptoms and psychological distress in infertile women associated with their treatment, few studies have investigated factors linked to their sleep disturbances.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study was conducted during the period of September 2010–January 2011 in a teaching hospital in Taiwan. Infertile women (n = 117) who received assisted reproduction with intrauterine insemination treatment completed a questionnaire. Demographic data, somatic symptoms, psychological distress and perceived sleep quality were collected.

Results

More than one‐third (35%) of the infertile women reported having sleep disturbances. Their nausea symptoms and psychological distress were risk factors that contributed to sleep disturbance.

Conclusions

The variables of nausea and psychological distress significantly explained 30% of the sleep disturbances in the infertile women. The evaluation of nausea symptoms and/or psychological distress among infertile women is an important area of future research; such research should aim to identify the best compromise between infertility treatment and sleep quality.

Relevance to clinical practice

Clinical obstetrics and gynaecology nurses should develop strategies to help infertile women reduce their nausea symptoms and psychological distress during intrauterine insemination treatment to promote healthy sleep.
Adaptation to Temporal Shocks: Influences of Strategic Interpretation and Spatial Distance
Authors: Pérez‐Nordtvedt Liliana , Khavul Susanna , Harrison David A. , McGee Jeffrey E.
Published: July 2013

Even when shocks in a firm's environment are predictable, their consequences are not. Using the relocation of theDallasCowboysStadium as a rich case of such a disruption, we investigate how combinations of strategic interpretation and spatial distance influence incumbent business owners' decisions to pursuetemporal adaptationas a response. Temporal adaptation (TA) comprisestimingrather thancontentchanges by the firm seeking to adjust to the reconfigured environment. Survey data from 168 business owners show that strategic interpretation directly influencesTAdecisions. However, the effect of strategic interpretation on theTAdecision is moderated by the spatial (geographic) distance of the incumbent firm from the locus of the disruption. Furthermore, results suggest that through strategic interpretation, spatial distance also indirectly affects the business owners' decisions to make temporal changes. Data collected 1.5 and 4 years later suggest thatTAresponses are related to performance and may be indicative of a particular type ofTA, organizational entrainment (OE), which concerns the synchronization of organizational activity cycles with cycles in the environment.
Isoniazid-gelatin conjugate microparticles containing rifampicin for the treatment of tuberculosis
Authors: Manca Maria L , Cassano Roberta , Valenti Donatella , Trombino Sonia , Ferrarelli Teresa , Picci Nevio , Fadda Anna M , Manconi Maria
Published: July 2013

Objectives 

In this work, a new polymeric microparticle system based on gelatin covalently bound to isoniazid (ISN) and containing rifampicin (RFP) was prepared by spray-drying technique. Microparticle aptitude to nebulisation and their capability of interacting with A549, alveolar basal epithelial cells, were evaluated in vitro.

Methods

Microparticles were obtained by spray drying, and their morphology, size, zeta potential, thermotropic behaviour and nebulisation ability were evaluated.

Key findings 

Microparticles were positively charged with a mean size of 4.88 ± 0.3 μm. Microspheres were able to incorporate both RFP and ISN: encapsulation efficiency was 51 ± 6% and 22 ± 1%, respectively. X-ray diffraction study showed a new extensive and flattened diffraction peak providing evidence that the drugs were dispersed into the microparticles. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis confirmed effective interactions between gelatin and drug molecules by the presence of new transition peaks. Fifty-nine per cent of used microparticles were aerosolised. In-vitro toxicity studies on A549 alveolar basal epithelial cells showed that microparticles decreased cytotoxicity in comparison with the RFP solution. Laser scanning confocal microscopy observation confirmed that fluorescent probes delivered by microparticles are efficiently internalised in A549 cells.

Conclusions 

Overall, microparticles based on gelatin covalently bound to ISN and containing RFP showed a promising behaviour for pulmonary drug delivery.
Overexpression of miR‐122 promotes the hepatic differentiation and maturation of mouse ESCs through a miR‐122/FoxA1/HNF4a‐positive feedback loop
Authors: Deng Xiao‐Geng , Qiu Rong‐Lin , Wu Yao‐Hao , Li Zhi‐Xi , Xie Ping , Zhang Jie , Zhou Jia‐Jia , Zeng Le‐Xiang , Tang Jing , Maharjan Anu , Deng Jie‐Min
Published: July 2013

Background & Aims

microRNA‐122 is the only identified liver‐specific miRNA and plays a crucial role in liver development, maintenance of hepatic homeostasis as well as tumourigenesis. In our previous differentiation of ESCs into hepatocytes, microRNA‐122 (miR‐122) was expressed at a relatively low level. Here, we aim to elucidate the effect and underlying mechanisms of miR‐122 during differentiation of ESCs into hepatocytes.

Methods

Mouse ESCs were initially induced towards HPCs by activin A, FGF‐4 and sodium butyrate and were subsequently transfected with a recombinant adenovirus expressing vector pAV.Ex1d‐CMV>miR‐122/IRES/eGFP 9 days after induction. Cells were analysed by real‐time PCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, microscopy and functional assays. Furthermore, microarray analysis was performed.

Results

We demonstrated that overexpression of miR‐122 could effectively promote hepatic differentiation and maturation, as assessed by morphological and functional tests. The microarray analysis revealed that 323 genes were down‐regulated, whereas 59 were up‐regulated. Particularly, two liver‐specific transcription factors, FoxA1 and HNF4a, were significantly up‐regulated. Moreover, the expression of E‐cadherin was dramatically increased and the proliferation of HPCs was suppressed, whereas knockdown of FoxA1 reduced E‐cadherin expression and increased the proliferation of HPCs. In addition, the expression levels of FoxA1, HNF4a and E‐cadherin in time‐course transfection experiments with miR‐122 were not significantly increased except in cells in which transfection with miR‐122 occurred 9 days after induction.

Conclusion

Overexpression of miR‐122 at an appropriate stage could promote hepatic differentiation and maturation by regulating the balance between proliferation and differentiation, as well as the balance between EMT and MET, partially through a miR‐122/FoxA1/HNF4a‐positive feedback loop.
Psychiatric symptoms may contribute to poor quality of life in adolescents with migraine
Authors: Paschoal Joelma Karin Sagica Fernandes , Lin Jaime , Pinho Ricardo Silva , Andreoni Solange , Minett Thais Soares Cianciarullo , Vitalle Maria Sylvia de Souza , Fisberg Mauro , Peres Mario Fernando Prieto , Vilanova Luiz Celso Pereira , Masruha Marcelo Rodrigues
Published: July 2013

Background

The impact of migraine on quality of life (QOL) can be aggravated by other comorbid factors. The aim of the present study was to assess the differences in the QOL of adolescents with chronic migraine, episodic migraine, and healthy adolescents, and whether the differences in QOL among the diagnostic groups were associated with the presence of self‐reported psychiatric symptoms, such as depression and anxiety.

Methods

A total of 157 adolescents (aged 15–19 years old) were included in the study. Fifty patients had episodic migraine, 56 patients suffered from chronic migraine, and 51 healthy adolescents were controls. All of the participants responded to a detailed headache questionnaire, the Medical Outcomes Trust 36‐Item Short‐form Health Survey, the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory.

Results

Chronic migraine patients showed a significantly lower QOL than the control subjects in five dimensions of the Medical Outcomes Trust 36‐Item Short‐form Health Survey, and lower QOL than the episodic migraine patients in four dimensions. High levels of self‐reported depressive symptoms were associated with lower QOL in five dimensions and high levels of self‐reported anxiety were associated with lower QOL in four dimensions.

Conclusions

The QOL of adolescent migraine sufferers may be aggravated not only by migraine but also by other factors, such as anxiety and depressive symptoms, which may contribute to the poor QOL in adolescents suffering from migraine.
High‐Performance Photoinitiating Systems for Free Radical Photopolymerization. Application to Holographic Recording
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmad , Stefano Luciano Di , Tarzi Olga , Tar Haja , Ley Christian , Allonas Xavier
Published: July 2013

The photoinitiating systems (PIS) usable in free radical photopolymerization are briefly reviewed. Apart conventional Type I and Type II photoinitiators, three‐component PIS exhibiting a photocyclic behavior are discussed. The mechanisms of photoreaction are presented, highlighting the role of a redox additive which reacts with the photoinitiator photoproduct. Recent applications in holography recording are described showing that the selection of a PIS plays a crucial role in this application.
Genetic diversity of the root‐knot nematode Meloidogyne ethiopica and development of a species‐specific SCAR marker for its diagnosis
Authors: Correa V. R. , Mattos V. S. , Almeida M. R. A. , Santos M. F. A. , Tigano M. S. , Castagnone‐Sereno P. , Carneiro R. M. D. G.
Published: July 2013

Meloidogyne ethiopica is an important nematode pathogen causing serious economic damage to grapevine in Chile. In Brazil, M. ethiopica has been detected with low frequency in kiwifruit and other crops. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the intraspecific genetic variability of M. ethiopica isolates from Brazil and Chile using AFLP and RAPD markers and to develop a species‐specific SCAR‐PCR assay for its diagnosis. Fourteen isolates were obtained from different geographic regions or host plants. Three isolates of an undescribed Meloidogyne species and one isolate of M. ethiopica from Kenya were included in the analysis. The results showed a low level of diversity among the M. ethiopica isolates, regardless of their geographical distribution or host plant origin. The three isolates of Meloidogyne sp. showed a high homogeneity and clustered separately from M. ethiopica (100% bootstrap). RAPD screenings of M. ethiopica allowed the identification of a differential DNA fragment that was converted into a SCAR marker. Using genomic DNA from pooled nematodes as a template, PCR amplification with primers designed from this species‐specific SCAR produced a fragment of 350 bp in all 14 isolates of M. ethiopica tested, in contrast with other species tested. This primer pair also allowed successful amplification of DNA from single nematodes, either juveniles or females and when used in multiplex PCR reactions containing mixtures of other root‐knot nematode species, thus showing the sensitivity of the assay. Therefore, the method developed here has potential for application in routine diagnostic procedures.
An assay for quantitative virulence in Rhynchosporium commune reveals an association between effector genotype and virulence
Authors: Stefansson T. S. , Willi Y. , Croll D. , McDonald B. A.
Published: July 2013

Detailed knowledge of the evolutionary genetics of virulence is needed to understand and predict host–pathogen dynamics. This study used a virulence assay based on digital image analysis and treated virulence as a quantitative rather than a binary trait. Such quantitative data may better reflect the genetic underpinning of virulence in many pathogen systems and provide better resolution in statistical investigations. A greenhouse experiment based on a common garden design was conducted to measure virulence (% of leaf area covered by lesions) of 126 genetically distinct isolates of the barley scald pathogen, Rhynchosporium commune, originating from nine field populations around the world. Virulence in this pathosystem was found to be a quantitative trait with a continuous distribution in all populations. By comparing population genetic differentiation for virulence and neutral microsatellite markers (i.e. a QST/GST comparison), evidence that virulence is under stabilizing selection across populations was found. Heritability values were high and ranged from 0·52 to 0·96 with a mean heritability of 0·84. Virulence was positively correlated with spore production as predicted by the trade‐off theory of virulence evolution. Furthermore, an association analysis between virulence and sequence haplotypes of three known necrosis‐inducing effector genes (NIP1, NIP2 and NIP3) revealed a significant effect of NIP2 haplotypes and NIP1 deletions. Overall, the results support a quantitative model for virulence in the R. commune–barley pathosystem and very high evolutionary potential for this trait.
Pay for Performance: Can It Help Improve Nursing Home Quality?
Authors: Weissert William G. , Frederick Lucy Faye
Published: July 2013

Nursing home quality threatens the well‐being of residents. Pay for performance pays organizations for meeting performance targets and is required in Medicare hospitals under the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, where it is called “value‐based purchasing.” It is not yet required of nursing homes. This article asks whether pay for performance could mitigate nursing home quality problems. A total of 159 health care studies were reviewed. “Effect sizes” (the percentage improvement or decline in care) were gleaned from 22 selected studies measuring 150 health outcomes ranging from more frequent foot exams to a measure of heart function. The median improvement was a modest 2.9 percent. Nursing home studies were a minority of those reviewed. Yet one large randomized trial proved successful. Pay for performance may be well suited to nursing homes given their routine care, chronic population, and low wage rates. However, design and implementation lessons must be applied to avoid failure.
Contested identities of indigenous people: Indigenization or integration of the Veddas in Sri Lanka
Authors: Attanapola Chamila T. , Lund Ragnhild
Published: July 2013

Traditionally, the identity of indigenous people was defined in relation to closeness to nature and use of wildlife resources. Such an identity has been put under pressure due to development programmes, neo‐liberal policies and increasing market economy, forcing these people to redefine their identity within new socio‐economic and geopolitical contexts. Based on ethnographic research, the situation of the Vedda people in Sri Lanka is analysed. First, we unravel how they define their identity through a ‘meaningful relationship’ with the place in which they used to live prior to their displacement because of a large scale development project. Second, we analyse how the Veddas (re‐)negotiate their identity in a context of limited access to land, lack of education, unemployment, and an increasing demand for indigenous tourism. It is found that the Veddas redefine their identity by pursuing two survival strategies: tourist development and re‐indigenization, and integration into mainstream Sinhalese society. Both strategies pose challenges and opportunities.
A systematic review of factors associated with the deferral of donors failing to meet low haemoglobin thresholds
Authors: Smith Graham A. , Fisher Sheila A. , Dorée Carolyn , Roberts David J.
Published: July 2013

Background/Objectives

Blood donors attending a donation session may be deemed ineligible to donate blood due to a failure to meet low haemoglobin (Hb) thresholds. Several studies have identified factors associated with a donor falling below these Hb thresholds. A review of these factors will inform future prospective studies and form the basis for predictive models of deferral due to low Hb.

Materials/Methods

Studies were identified by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry from 1980 to September 2012. Demographic data, donor history, haematological/biological factors and the primary outcome of deferral due to low Hb were extracted. Analyses were descriptive and quantitative; pooled odds ratios (ORs) were obtained by meta‐analysis.

Results

Fifty‐five studies met the inclusion criteria. A consistently higher rate of low Hb deferral was reported in females compared with males; meta‐analysis showed a significantly greater risk of deferral due to low Hb in females compared with males in studies with universal Hb thresholds for males and females (OR 14·91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 12·82–17·34) and in studies with sex‐specific Hb thresholds (OR 8·19, 95% CI 4·88–13·74). Greater rates of deferral due to low Hb were also associated with increasing age, higher ambient temperature, low body weight, shorter inter‐donation interval and in donors of Hispanic or African descent.

Conclusion

This work will help to define the criteria that should be considered in any large scale study of blood donor deferral, especially those that measure or aim to change failure to meet low Hb thresholds.
A mutation in the Arabidopsis thaliana cell wall biosynthesis gene pectin methylesterase 3 as well as its aberrant expression cause hypersensitivity specifically to Zn
Authors: Weber Michael , Deinlein Ulrich , Fischer Sina , Rogowski Michaela , Geimer Stefan , Tenhaken Raimund , Clemens Stephan
Published: July 2013

Defects in metal homeostasis factors are often accompanied by the loss of metal tolerance. Therefore, we screened for mutants with compromised growth in the presence of excess Zn2+ in order to identify factors involved in Zn biology in plants. Here we report the isolation of six ozs (overly Zn sensitive) ethyl methanesulfonate Arabidopsis thaliana mutants with contrasting patterns of metal sensitivity, and the molecular characterization of two mutants hypersensitive specifically to Zn2+. Mutant ozs1 represents a non‐functional allele of the vacuolar Zn transporter AtMTP1, providing additional genetic evidence for its major role in Zn2+ tolerance in seedlings. Mutant ozs2 carries a semi‐dominant mutation in the gene encoding pectin methylesterase 3 (AtPME3), an enzyme catalyzing demethylesterification of pectin. The mutation results in impaired proteolytic processing of AtPME3. Ectopic expression of AtPME3 causes strong Zn2+ hypersensitivity that is tightly correlated with transcript abundance. Together these observations suggest detrimental effects on Golgi‐localized processes. The ozs2 but not the ozs1 phenotype can be suppressed by extra Ca2+, indicating changes in apoplastic cation‐binding capacity. However, we did not detect any changes in bulk metal‐binding capacity, overall pectin methylesterification status or cell wall ultrastructure in ozs2, leading us to hypothesize that the ozs2 mutation causes hypersensitivity towards the specific interference of Zn ions with cell wall‐controlled growth processes.
Pathogen reduction treatment alters the immunomodulatory capacity of buffy coat–derived platelet concentrates
Authors: Loh Yen S. , Johnson Lacey , Kwok Matthew , Marks Denese C.
Published: July 2013

Background

Storage of platelet concentrates (PCs) after Mirasol pathogen reduction technology (PRT) treatment changes platelet (PLT) surface marker expression and secretion of immunomodulatory factors. Given that PLTs are known to participate in immune function, PRT may alter the way PLTs interact with the immune cells of a recipient upon transfusion. As such, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of PRT treatment on the functional ability of PLTs to interact with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs).

Study Design and Methods

Buffy coat–derived PCs were pooled and split to obtain matched pairs. One unit was treated using the Mirasol PRT system, while the control PC remained untreated. After 5 days of storage, either the PLTs or the PLT supernatants from the PCs were cocultured with PBMNCs, with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The immunomodulatory factors secreted into culture medium after coculture were examined.

Results

PRT‐treated PLTs and PLT supernatant significantly increased the interleukin (IL)‐8 concentration, which was manifested only in the presence of LPS. Conversely, PRT‐treated PLTs secreted less soluble P‐selectin (sCD62P) upon coculture with PBMNCs.

Conclusion

PRT‐treatment induced differential secretion of IL‐8 and sCD62P during coculture, which may be attributed to either bioactive substances present in PLT supernatant or as a result of cell–cell interactions.
Successful management of severe hemolytic disease of the fetus due to anti‐Jsb using intrauterine transfusions with serial maternal blood donations: a case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Al Riyami Arwa Z. , Al Salmani Moza , Al Hashami Sabria , Al Mahrooqi Sabah , Al Hinai Sumaiya , Al Balushi Halima , Al Riyami Nihal , Gowri V. , Al Dughaishi Tamima , Al Hosni Saif , Al‐Khabori Murtadha , Al‐Farsi Khalil , Al Huneini Mohammed , Alkindi Salam
Published: July 2013

Background

The management of pregnant women with anti‐Jsb is challenging due to the paucity of antigen‐negative blood for fetal and neonatal transfusion.

Case Report

A 29‐year‐old woman with anti‐Jsb was referred for assessment of recurrent fetal losses. With the presence of the sister as a historically matched donor, she was planned for active surveillance for fetal anemia during pregnancy.

Study Design and Methods

The fetus remained well until 21 weeks of gestation when signs of fetal anemia and early hydrops fetalis were noted. Anti‐Jsb titer was at 128. The sister's red blood cells (RBCs) were cross‐match incompatible. Urgent intrauterine transfusion (IUT) was performed with washed irradiated maternal RBCs, donated after cessation of heparin. The mother was given intravenous iron (IV‐Fe) and continued on weekly recombinant human erythropoietin (rHu‐EPO).

Results

Repeated IUTs were needed every 1 to 3 weeks. Throughout a 7‐week period, three maternal donations were performed with total donated whole blood volume of 1250 mL, supporting four IUTs. At 29 weeks of gestation, the procedure was complicated by umbilical cord hematoma necessitating urgent cesarean section. A male newborn was delivered, transfused at birth, and subsequently treated with phototherapy and five top‐up transfusions.

Conclusion

This case represents a successful example of managing hemolytic disease of the fetus due to a rare antibody using maternal blood. It also supports previous data on safety of maternal donations during pregnancy and the use of combination of rHu‐EPO and IV‐Fe as a supportive measure.
A pilot study of the validation of percutaneous testing in cats
Authors: Rossi Michael A. , Messinger Linda , Olivry Thierry , Hoontrakoon Raweewan
Published: July 2013

Background

Intradermal testing is useful for the identification of environmental allergens to which cats could be hypersensitive; intradermal test reactions are often subtle and difficult to interpret in cats. Percutaneous testing is the standard technique for the detection of significant environmental allergens in people, but it has not yet been evaluated in cats with hypersensitivity dermatitis.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the skin test responses of healthy cats to percutaneous application and intradermal injections of control solutions.

Methods

Ten clinically healthy cats were studied. Percutaneous applications of 0.0275 and 0.1 mg/mL aqueous histamine, 6 mg/mL glycerinated histamine, 0.9% buffered saline and 50% glycerosaline solution were performed using Greer Pick (Greer Laboratories, Lenoir, NC, USA) and Duotip‐Test II (Lincoln Diagnostics, Decatur, IL, USA) percutaneous applicators. Reactions were compared with intradermal injections of 0.0275 mg/mL aqueous histamine and 0.9% buffered saline as controls.

Results

Positive responses to histamine solutions were significantly greater with the Greer Pick than with the Duotip‐Test II. There were no significant differences between the histamine reactions using the Greer Pick applicator and the intradermal injections. Percutaneous reactions to histamine were more well demarcated and easier to read than intradermal injection reactions. Reactions to the saline controls were not noted.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Percutaneous application of 6 mg/mL glycerinated histamine solution, 50% glycerosaline solution and 0.9% buffered saline produced similar positive and negative control wheals. These observations warrant further studies of percutaneous allergen testing in cats with hypersensitivity dermatitis.
Theoretical study for the adsorption of CO on neutral and charged Pd13 clusters
Authors: Benítez Jorge I. , Flores Raúl , Castro Miguel
Published: July 2013

Adsorption of carbon monoxide, CO, on the surface of magnetic Pd13, Pd13–, and Pd13+ clusters, showing magnetic moments of 8, 7, and 7 Bohr magnetons (μB), respectively, was studied by means of density functional methods, allowing partial inclusion of relativistic effects. The favorable adsorption modes are on top, bridge, and threefold, with the binding energy of CO with Pd13– increasing in this same order as 39.4, 48.0 and 50.2 kcal/mol. In addition, the experimental results for the [Pdn–CO]–, n = 4–12, anions show a decrease of the vibrational frequency of CO along this triad of modes, 1940, 1800, and 1680 cm−1, with respect to the free CO value, 2143 cm−1, which conforms to our estimated frequencies, 1956, 1784, and 1679 cm−1, for CO in the [Pd13–CO]– complex. Also, the threefold mode shows a significantly longer bond length for CO, 1.210 Å, with respect to the free case, 1.139 Å. Then the bond of CO is considerably weakened in the negatively charged [Pd13CO]– cluster when the adsorption occurs in a threefold site. These results are mainly accounted for by charge transfer effects from the Pd13 cluster to the CO molecule. Smaller CO activation was found in neutral Pd13–CO and in [Pd13–CO]+, where hollow adsorption yields bigger structural and electronic changes on CO than the respective bridge and on-top modes. Overall, CO adsorption notably quenches the magnetization of neutral and charged Pd13 particles.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AGGREGATED MARKOV REPAIRABLE SYSTEMS WITH MULTI-OPERATING LEVELS
Authors: WANG LIYING , CUI LIRONG
Published: July 2013

Many multi-state systems settle on more than one operating levels and the elementary states having a common operating level can be treated as one. In this paper, one kind of such Markov repairable systems is introduced, which is named aggregated Markov repairable systems with multi-operating levels. In the system, the functioning states are lumped together according to their membership as a common operating level and each operating level is characterized by a performance rate. The systems degrade from a higher operating level to a lower one when no preventive maintenances (PMs) are performed. While the system is in some deteriorated operating levels that are easy to be recognized PMs are carried out. The PMs may be perfect or imperfect. If the system fails, the repairs may restore it to any of its operating levels. A multivariate semi-Markov process is build to describe performance properties of the system. Several reliability indices such as the availability, frequencies of repairs and failures are presented. Furthermore, the up time, the length of a cycle, the sojourn times in various operating levels and visiting numbers to them, the times that the system satisfies demands of customers and the output during a cycle are studied. Semi-Markov process theory, Laplace transform and matrix methods are employed in the study. A numerical example is given to illustrate the results in the paper. The impact of PM on the system is considered through the numerical illustration.
JET QUENCHING AT LHC
Authors: SPOUSTA MARTIN
Published: July 2013

We review up-to-date results on high-pTparticles and jets in heavy-ion collisions by three major LHC experiments, ALICE, ATLAS and CMS. Results of analyses of 2010 and 2011 Pb + Pb data at [Formula: see text] are discussed. We concentrate mainly on results by fully reconstructed jets and discuss similarities and important differences in measurements among experiments. We point to the importance of understanding the results in a view of difference between quark-initiated and gluon-initiated jets.
WHAT IS THE SHAPE OF THE INITIAL STATE?
Authors: AGARWAL NISHANT , HOLMAN R. , TOLLEY ANDREW J.
Published: July 2013

We argue that a plausible operational definition for an initial state of the universe is the initial quantum state of the curvature perturbations generated during inflation. We provide a parametrization of this state and generalize the standard in–in formalism to incorporate the structures in this state into the computation of correlators of the perturbations. Measurements of these correlators using both the cosmic microwave background as well as large scale structure probe different structures in the initial state, as they give rise to bi- and tri-spectra peaked on different shapes of triangles and quadrilaterals in momentum space. In essence, the shapes implied by the correlators feed directly into information about the shape of the initial state and what physics could have preceded inflation to set this state up.
ON THE MAXIMUM MASS OF NEUTRON STARS
Authors: CHAMEL N. , HAENSEL P. , ZDUNIK J. L. , FANTINA A. F.
Published: July 2013

One of the most intriguing questions about neutron stars concerns their maximum mass. The answer is intimately related to the properties of matter at densities far beyond that found in heavy atomic nuclei. The current view on the internal constitution of neutron stars and on their maximum mass, both from theoretical and observational studies, are briefly reviewed.
STUDY OF (14.0MeV/u) URANIUM IONS INTERACTION WITH VANADIUM TARGET
Authors: SHER GUL , IKRAM SHAHZAD M.
Published: July 2013

We have investigated Uranium ions interaction at energy 14.0 MeV /u incident on a Vanadium target using mica as nuclear track detector. The detector exposure was made from ions beam facility at UNILAC accelerator of GSI Darmstadt, Germany. The etched detector was scanned using an optical microscope. From the total binary tracks data events, elastic track events were separated using angular correlation criterion. The elastic scattering data have been separated from the binary events and used for the determination of quarter-point angle θ1/4(grazing angle). Total and partial reaction cross-sections are measured using the statistic of inelastic two-pronged and higher multiplicity tracks. The experimental measured cross-sections are compared with the cross-sections calculated using sharp cut-off model. The theoretical prediction of reaction parameters of interacting heavy ions have also been determined, that are comparable with experimental measured values.
PORTFOLIO SELECTION PROBLEMS CONSISTENT WITH GIVEN PREFERENCE ORDERINGS
Authors: LOZZA SERGIO ORTOBELLI , SHALIT HAIM , FABOZZI FRANK J.
Published: July 2013

This paper theoretically and empirically investigates the connection between portfolio theory and ordering theory. In particular, we examine three different portfolio problems and the respective orderings used to rank investors' choices: (1) risk orderings, (2) variability orderings, and (3) tracking-error orderings. For each problem, we discuss the properties of the risk measures, variability measures, and tracking-error measures, as well as their consistency with investor choices. Finally, for each problem, we propose an empirical application of several admissible portfolio optimization problems using the US stock market. The proposed empirical analysis permits us to evaluate the ex-post impact of the optimal choices, thereby deriving completely different investors' preference orderings during the recent financial crisis.
NOTE ON AN EXTENSION OF AN ASYMPTOTIC EXPANSION SCHEME
Authors: TAKAHASHI AKIHIKO , TODA MASASHI
Published: July 2013

This paper presents an extension of a general computational scheme for asymptotic expansions proposed in earlier works by the authors and coworkers. In the earlier works, a new method was developed for the computation of an arbitrary-order expansion with a normal benchmark distribution in a multidimensional diffusion setting. In particular, a new algorithm was proposed for calculating coefficients in an expansion by solving a system of ordinary differential equations. In the present note, by a change of variable technique, and by various ways of setting the perturbation parameters in the expansion, we provide the flexibility of setting the benchmark distribution around which the expansion is made and an automatic way for computation up to any order in the expansion. For instance, we introduce new expansions, called the lognormal expansion and the CEV expansion. We also show some concrete examples with numerical experiments, which imply that a high-order CEV expansion will produce more a precise and stable approximation for option pricing under the SABR model than other approximation methods such as the log-normal expansion and the well-known normal expansion.
QUANTIZATION-BASED FRAGILE WATERMARKING USING BLOCK-WISE AUTHENTICATION AND PIXEL-WISE RECOVERY SCHEME FOR TAMPERED IMAGE
Authors: SINGH DURGESH , SHIVANI SHIVENDRA , AGARWAL SUNEETA
Published: July 2013

This paper suggests an efficient fragile watermarking scheme for image content authentication along with altered region restoration capability. In this scheme, image is divided into nonoverlapping blocks of size 2 × 2 and for each block, eight bits for image content recovery data and four bits for authentication data from five most significant bits (MSBs) of each pixel, are generated. These 12 bits are embedded into the least significant bits (LSBs) of the pixels which are placed in its corresponding mapping block. At the receiver end by comparing the recalculated and extracted authentication data, the tampered blocks can easily be identified and using recovery data, one can easily restore the tampered block. Results of experiments demonstrate that the proposed scheme is effective enough for alteration detection as well as tamper recovery of the image.
JTK-853, a Novel Non-Nucleoside Hepatitis C Virus Polymerase Inhibitor, Demonstrates a High Genetic Barrier to Resistance in vitro
Authors: Ando Izuru , Ogura Naoki , Toyonaga Yukiyo , Hirahara Kunihiro , Shibata Tsutomu , Noguchi Toru
Published: July 2013

JTK-853 is a novel, non-nucleoside, palm site-binding hepatitis C virus (HCV) polymerase inhibitor that has demonstrated antiviral activity in HCV-infected patients during 3 days of treatment. To estimate the genetic barrier of JTK-853 to resistance in vitro, colony formation assays were conducted using HCV replicon cells (genotypes 1a and 1b). The colony formation assays revealed that the numbers of resistant colonies for JTK-853 were much lower than those for other direct-acting antivirals, including palm site- or thumb pocket-binding non-nucleoside HCV polymerase inhibitors (NNIs), an NS5A inhibitor (NS5Ai), and a protease inhibitor (PI). Furthermore, the numbers of resistant colonies for JTK-853 in combination with the NS5Ai or PI were lower than those for other combinations of NS5Ai + NNI, and NS5Ai + PI. Our findings demonstrate that JTK-853 has a high genetic barrier to resistance, and suggest that its combination therapies will be potent in suppressing the emergence of drug resistance in HCV-infected patients.
Early and Late Mortality in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Comparison of the Novel EuroScore II with Established Risk Scores
Authors: Stähli Barbara E. , Tasnady Hanna , Lüscher Thomas F. , Gebhard Cathérine , Mikulicic Fran , Erhart Ladina , Bühler Ines , Landmesser Ulf , Altwegg Lukas , Wischnewsky Manfred B. , Grünenfelder Jürg , Falk Volkmar , Corti Roberto , Maier Willibald
Published: July 2013

Objectives: In the evaluation of patients considered for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), the EuroScore II might be superior to established risk scores. Methods: We assessed the performance of the EuroScore II in predicting mortality in a cohort of 350 TAVI patients. Results: The EuroScore II and the logistic EuroScore were higher in nonsurvivors compared to survivors at 30 days (12.6 ± 1.8 vs. 7.5 ± 0.3%, p < 0.001 for EuroScore II, and 27.7 ± 2.8 vs. 22.1 ± 0.8%, p = 0.04 for logistic EuroScore), while the STS-PROM score did not differ (7.3 ± 0.8 vs. 6.4 ± 0.3%, p = 0.09). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.70 for the EuroScore II, 0.61 for the logistic EuroScore and 0.59 for the STS-PROM score for predicting 30-day mortality. Based on the estimated 30-day mortality risk, 3 risk groups were identified, a low-risk (EuroScore II ≤4%, 30-day mortality 1.2%), an intermediate-risk (EuroScore II between 4% and 9%, 30-day mortality 8.6%) and a high-risk group (EuroScore II >9%, 30-day mortality, 17.1%; p = 0.03). Regarding cumulative mortality, the AUC was 0.67 for the EuroScore II, 0.62 for the logistic EuroScore and 0.55 for the STS-PROM score for predicting mortality at total follow-up. Conclusions: In this patient cohort, the EuroScore II performed best in predicting short- and long-term mortality.
“Then Their Eyes Were Opened”: Pentecostal Reflections on the Church’s Scripture and the Lord’s Supper
Authors: Green Chris E.W.
Published: July 2013

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship of Scripture to the Lord’s Supper in and for Pentecostal theology and praxis, drawing on a figurative reading of the story of the Emmaus disciples (Luke 24) as a paradigm. The paper’s central claim is that faithful eucharistic participation is indispensable to the faithful reading of Scripture — and vice versa. It is just as our lives are consumed by the Eucharist event that our eyes are opened to see the Jesus of whom the Scriptures testify and that we are made apt for the transforming work of the Spirit. On this basis, a call is made for a robust and authentically Pentecostal sacramentality to orient and ground uses of Scripture in and by the Pentecostal ecclesial community. In addition to fellow Pentecostals, dialogue partners from the wider Christian tradition are also engaged, including, most prominently, Rowan Williams, Jean-Luc Marion, and Robert W. Jenson.
Pentecostal Epiclesis: A Model for Teaching and Learning
Authors: Alvarado Johnathan E.
Published: July 2013

Abstract

The eucharistic practices of many mainline and historic Christian traditions have been co-opted into Pentecostalism’s theology and praxis. While this has been functional for the first one hundred years of Pentecostalism, a decidedly Pentecostal expression of epiclesis is still being developed and existing modes of eucharistic prayer are being understood. In this essay I examine epiclesis and note its natural intersection with Pentecostal theology as the inroad to an expanded theological dialogue. I define epiclesis historically and within a contemporary Pentecostal context. Finally, I argue that the mainline and historic churches could teach and learn from a cross-pollination of ideas with Pentecostal churches.
Ein Vorschlag zur Chronologie der 25. Dynastie in Ägypten
Authors: Bányai Michael
Published: July 2013

Abstract

The first mention of Kush in the Assyrian sources comes in the context of the resolution of the conflict between Sargon and the rebellious prince of Ashdod, Iamani, in ca. 707 BCE. However, this event plays a critical role in our understanding of the chronology of the end of the 24th and beginning of the 25th Dynasties. This paper re-examines the relevant data pertaining to the period in an attempt to synchronize the historical and chronological relationships presented in the Assyrian and Egyptian sources. As a result of this work, a reversal of the conventional order of the kings Schabako-Schebtiko, which was obscured in Manetho’s epithoma and is thus exclusively a matter of modern reconstruction, is needed. The new chronology put forward by the author also necessitates the re-evaluation of several other documents essential to the history of this period.
The Urban Heat Island of the North-Central Texas Region and Its Relation to the 2011 Severe Texas Drought
Authors: Winguth A. M. E. , Kelp B.
Published: July 2013

Hourly surface temperature differences between Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas, metropolitan and rural sites have been used to calculate the urban heat island from 2001 to 2011. The heat island peaked after sunset and was particularly strong during the drought and heat wave in July 2011, reaching a single-day instantaneous maximum value of 5.4°C and a monthly mean maximum of 3.4°C, as compared with the 2001–11 July average of 2.4°C. This severe drought caused faster warming of rural locations relative to the metropolitan area in the morning as a result of lower soil moisture content, which led to an average negative heat island in July 2011 of −2.3°C at 1100 central standard time. The ground-based assessment of canopy air temperature at screening level has been supported by a remotely sensed surface estimate from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board theTerrasatellite, highlighting a dual-peak maximum heat island in the major city centers of Dallas and Fort Worth. Both ground-based and remotely sensed spatial analyses of the maximum heat island indicate a northwest shift, the result of southeast winds in July 2011 of ~2 m s−1on average. There was an overall positive trend in the urban heat island of 0.14°C decade−1in the Dallas–Fort Worth metropolitan area from 2001 to 2011, due to rapid urbanization. Superimposed on this trend are significant interannual and decadal variations that influence the urban climate.
A Novel Scheme for Parameterizing Aerosol Processing in Warm Clouds
Authors: Lebo Zachary J. , Morrison Hugh
Published: July 2013

A novel two-moment bulk aerosol parameterization is derived from a state-of-the-art 2D bin microphysics model using power-law relationships and a semi-analytical technique for activation. The activation scheme predicts both number and mass of a lognormal aerosol distribution and permits the evolution of the modal mass with time. The newly developed bulk aerosol scheme is formulated for use in traditional two-moment bulk microphysics models. The new explicit scheme is compared with the 2D bin scheme and a simple scaling aerosol parameterization, in which all the aerosol processes are scaled to the respective cloud process rates, in a kinematic model with a specified flow field. Hybrid simulations in which the explicit activation formulation is coupled to the scaling parameterization are also performed. Model results demonstrate the significance of including a physically realistic representation of aerosols contained in haze, cloud droplets, and rain. It is shown that the explicit aerosol parameterization and scaling method predict similar bulk aerosol quantities and match the results of the 2D bin model only if an explicit treatment of aerosol activation—that is, both aerosol number and mass transfer because of activation—is included in the microphysics model.