bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Warm spray applied to steel component repair: experimental study
Authors: Faccoli M. , Maestrini D. , Marconi G. P.
Published: April 2015

Experimental investigations were carried out in order to evaluate the possibility of using warm spray as a repair technique for steel components. A high velocity oxygen fuel system was modified to deposit an AISI 316 stainless steel feedstock powder in solid state. A preliminary study was carried out on the spray conditions to optimise the deposition process. The powder was deposited on a steel sample, and the quality of the coating was evaluated by optical microscope observations: a limited porosity was observed in the repair. Test damage was produced in another steel sample and was repaired by warm spray. Residual stresses and microhardness of the repaired area were measured. It was found that beneficial compressive residual stresses were produced in the repaired area, which also exhibits a good microhardness, slightly higher than that of the substrate. Finally, adhesion tests were carried out, and a strength >46 MPa was found.
The energy transfer mechanism of a photoexcited and electroluminescent organic hybrid thin film of blue, green, and red laser dyes
Authors: Li Weiling , Zhang Jing , Zheng Yanqiong , Chen Guo , Cai Miao , Wei Bin
Published: April 2015

Though optically pumped lasing has been realized for years, electrically pumped lasing has not yet been achieved in organic semiconductor devices. In order to make a better understanding of the laser mechanisms of the organic materials, we prepared organic thin films consisting of three efficient laser dyes of a blue emitter, 4″,4″′-N,N-diphenylamine-4,4′-diphenyl-1,1′-binaphthyl (BN), a green emitter, 1,4-bis[2-[4-[N,N-di(p-tolyl)amino] phenyl]vinyl]benzene (DSB), and a red emitter, 4-(dicyanomethylene)-2-t-butyl-6(1,1,7,7-tetramethyljulolidy-l-9-enyl)-4H-pyran (DCJTB) with different doping concentrations for the first time to investigate the cascade energy transfer process. The energy transfer schemes in the co-doped thin films in photoluminescence and electroluminescence have been investigated. The results indicated that the DSB molecules acted as a bridge to deliver energy more effectively from the host (BN) to the guest (DCJTB). Meanwhile, the maximum current efficiency (C
E) and power efficiency (P
E) of the organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs) with the emitting layer of lower doping concentration were 13.5 cd/A and 14.1 lm/W, respectively.
Ag-Cu nanoalloyed film as a high-performance cathode electrocatalytic material for zinc-air battery
Authors: Lei Yimin , Chen Fuyi , Jin Yachao , Liu Zongwen
Published: April 2015

A novel Ag50Cu50 film electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) was prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method. The electrocatalyst actually is Ag-Cu alloyed nanoparticles embedded in amorphous Cu film, based on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization. The rotating disk electrode (RDE) measurements provide evidence that the ORR proceed via a four-electron pathway on the electrocatalysts in alkaline solution. And it is much more efficient than pure Ag catalyst. The catalytic layer has maximum power density of 67 mW cm−2 and an acceptable cell voltage at 0.863 V when current densities increased up to 100 mA cm−2 in the Ag50Cu50-based primary zinc-air battery. The resulting rechargeable zinc-air battery exhibits low charge-discharge voltage polarization of 1.1 V at 20 mAcm−2 and high durability over 100 cycles in natural air.
Time for a standardized system of reporting sites of genomic methylation
Authors: Saffery Richard , Gordon Lavinia
Published: April 2015

The authors argue that the lack of a widely used, systematic way to report sites of DNA methylation is a often a barrier to reproducibility and therefore holds back research.
Hypoxic culture of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal stem cells differentially enhances in vitro chondrogenesis within cell-seeded collagen and hyaluronic acid porous scaffolds
Authors: Bornes Troy D , Jomha Nadr M , Mulet-Sierra Aillette , Adesida Adetola B
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The quality of cartilaginous tissue derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stromal stem cell (BMSC) transplantation has been correlated with clinical outcome. Therefore, culture conditions capable of modulating tissue phenotype, such as oxygen tension and scaffold composition, are under investigation. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of hypoxia on in vitro BMSC chondrogenesis within clinically approved porous scaffolds composed of collagen and hyaluronic acid (HA). It was hypothesized that hypoxic isolation/expansion and differentiation would improve BMSC chondrogenesis in each construct.

Methods

Ovine BMSCs were isolated and expanded to passage 2 under hypoxia (3% oxygen) or normoxia (21% oxygen). Cell proliferation and colony-forming characteristics were assessed. BMSCs were seeded at 10 million cells per cubic centimeter on cylindrical scaffolds composed of either collagen I sponge or esterified HA non-woven mesh. Chondrogenic differentiation was performed in a defined medium under hypoxia or normoxia for 14 days. Cultured constructs were assessed for gene expression, proteoglycan staining, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) quantity, and diameter change.

Results

Isolation/expansion under hypoxia resulted in faster BMSC population doublings per day (P <0.05), whereas cell and colony counts were not significantly different (P = 0.60 and 0.30, respectively). Collagen and HA scaffolds seeded with BMSCs that were isolated, expanded, and differentiated under hypoxia exhibited superior aggrecan and collagen II mRNA expressions (P <0.05), GAG quantity (P <0.05), and proteoglycan staining in comparison with normoxia. GAG/DNA was augmented with hypoxic isolation/expansion in all constructs (P <0.01). Comparison by scaffold composition indicated increased mRNA expressions of hyaline cartilage-associated collagen II, aggrecan, and SOX9 in collagen scaffolds, although expression of collagen X, which is related to hypertrophic cartilage, was also elevated (P <0.05). Proteoglycan deposition was not significantly improved in collagen scaffolds unless culture involved normoxic isolation/expansion followed by hypoxic differentiation. During chondrogenesis, collagen-based constructs progressively contracted to 60.1% ± 8.9% of the initial diameter after 14 days, whereas HA-based construct size was maintained (109.7% ± 4.2%).

Conclusions

Hypoxic isolation/expansion and differentiation enhance in vitro BMSC chondrogenesis within porous scaffolds. Although both collagen I and HA scaffolds support the creation of hyaline-like cartilaginous tissue, variations in gene expression, extracellular matrix formation, and construct size occur during chondrogenesis.
Ocular disconjugacy cannot be measured without establishing a solid spatial reference
Authors: Maruta Jun
Published: April 2015

This correspondence points out a need for clarification concerning the methodology utilized in the study “Eye tracking detects disconjugate eye movements associated with structural traumatic brain injury and concussion”, recently published inJournal of Neurotrauma.The authors of the paper state that binocular eye movements were recorded using a single-camera video-oculography technique and that binocular disconjugate characteristics were analyzed without calibration of eye orientation. It is claimed that a variance-based disconjugacy metric was found to be sensitive to the severity of a concussive brain injury and to the status of recovery after the original injury. However, the reproducibility of the paper’s findings may be challenged simply by the paucity of details in the methodological description. More importantly, from the information supplied or cited in the paper, it is difficult to evaluate the validity of the potentially interesting conclusions of the paper.
Reported clinical outcomes of high-fidelity simulation versus classroom-based end-of-life care education
Authors: Venkatasalu Munikumar Ramasamy , Kelleher Michael , Shao Chun Hua
Published: April 2015

Background:

Nursing students often experience increased anxiety, lack of clinical skills and poor coping mechanisms when dealing with death and dying for the first time.

Aims:

To design, use and assess the effectiveness of high-fidelity simulation teaching versus classroom-based end-of-life care (EoLC) teaching for first-year nursing students on dealing with their first death experiences in clinical placements.

Methods:

A qualitative phenomenography approach was taken. First-year nursing students (n=187) were randomly allocated to receive either classrtoom-based (n=139) or high-fidelity simulation-based EoLC teaching (n=48). When all participants had returned from their first clinical placement, 12 individual in-depth interviews were carried out. Data were analysed using framework analysis.

Results:

Comparative data analysis revealed four key themes as clinical outcomes: recognising death and dying; knowledge into practice; preparedness for clinical eventualities; and emotional preparedness.

Conclusions:

Despite the fact that both strategies improved students' knowledge of EoLC, simulation-based EoLC education was perceived as better in terms of enhanced practical skills and improved emotional experience in their first clinical placement.
Prognostic role of BNP in children undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease: analysis of prediction models incorporating standard risk factors
Authors: Cantinotti Massimiliano , Giordano Raffaele , Scalese Marco , Molinaro Sabrina , della Pina Francesca , Storti Simona , Arcieri Luigi , Murzi Bruno , Marotta Marco , Pak Vitali , Poli Vincenzo , Iervasi Giorgio , Kutty Shelby , Clerico Aldo
Published: April 2015

The routine use of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in pediatric cardiac surgery remains controversial. Our aim was to test whether BNP adds information to predict risk in pediatric cardiac surgery.

In all, 587 children undergoing cardiac surgery (median age 6.3 months; 1.2–35.9 months) were prospectively enrolled at a single institution. BNP was measured pre-operatively, on every post-operative day in the intensive care unit, and before discharge. The primary outcome was major complications and length ventilator stay >15 days. A first risk prediction model was fitted using Cox proportional hazards model with age, body surface area and Aristotle score as continuous predictors. A second model was built adding cardiopulmonary bypass time and arterial lactate at the end of operation to the first model. Then, peak post-operative log-BNP was added to both models. Analysis to test discrimination, calibration, and reclassification were performed.

BNP increased after surgery (p<0.001), peaking at a mean of 63.7 h (median 36 h, interquartile range 12–84 h) post-operatively and decreased thereafter. The hazard ratios (HR) for peak-BNP were highly significant (first model HR=1.40, p=0.006, second model HR=1.44, p=0.008), and the log-likelihood improved with the addition of BNP at 12 h (p=0.006; p=0.009). The adjunction of peak-BNP significantly improved the area under the ROC curve (first model p<0.001; second model p<0.001). The adjunction of peak-BNP also resulted in a net gain in reclassification proportion (first model NRI=0.089, p<0.001; second model NRI=0.139, p=0.003).

Our data indicates that BNP may improve the risk prediction in pediatric cardiac surgery, supporting its routine use in this setting.
Proposal for the modification of the conventional model for establishing performance specifications
Authors: Oosterhuis Wytze P. , Sandberg Sverre
Published: April 2015

Appropriate quality of test results is fundamental to the work of the medical laboratory. How to define the level of quality needed is a question that has been subject to much debate. Quality specifications have been defined based on criteria derived from the clinical applicability, validity of reference limits and reference change values, state-of-the-art performance, and other criteria, depending on the clinical application or technical characteristics of the measurement. Quality specifications are often expressed as the total error allowable (TE
Diglycolamide-Based Solvent Systems in Room Temperature Ionic Liquids for Actinide Ion Extraction: A Review
Authors: Mohapatra Prasanta Kumar
Published: April 2015

This review article gives a comprehensive account of the extraction of actinide ions using room temperature ionic liquid-based solvent systems containing diglycolamide (DGA) or functionalized DGA extractants. These extractants include multiple DGA-functionalized ligands such as tripodal DGA (T-DGA) and DGA-functionalized calix [4]arenes (C4DGA). Apart from metal ion extraction behaviour, other important features of the ionic liquid-based solvent systems such as separation behaviour, luminescence spectroscopic results, thermodynamics of extraction and radiolytic stability of the ionic liquid-based solvents are also reviewed. Results from studies on DGA-functionalized task-specific ionic liquids (TSIL) are also included in this review article.
Returns to Society from Investment in Cancer Research and Development
Authors: Chandra Amitabh , MacEwan Joanna P. , Campinha-Bacote Avrita , Khan Zeba M.
Published: April 2015

Background: Since the start of the War on Cancer there have been enormous investments in improving oncology treatment. The return to society generated by this investment is unknown. We estimate the returns generated over the previous four decades and extrapolate future returns from current investment in cancer R&D.

Methods: Using data on cancer incidence, mortality, and treatment-specific R&D expenditures from 1973 to 2010, we used regression models and two-sided significance tests to relate investment in cancer treatment R&D to cancer mortality, by tumor type. For investment, we used a measure of the knowledge stock generated by cancer treatment R&D expenditures over the previous 25 years to capture the cumulative benefits of past innovations and advances in treatment.

Results: Investment of an additional $1 million in cervical, breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer between 1973 and 1990 was associated with a cumulative return of more than $5 million from cancer R&D by 2010. Through 2010, investment in cancer R&D was associated with average benefits in excess of costs in all but two cancers, ovarian and pancreatic. Regarding future returns, we estimated that each additional $1 million invested in cancer treatment research and development in 2010 will produce over $28 million in value over the following 50 years.

Conclusions: The return to society from spending on cancer treatment R&D is large, but varies across tumor types.
Biomarker – vom Sein und Wesen
Authors: Leichtle Alexander
Published: April 2015

Biomarker, ein inzwischen geradezu inflationär verwendeter Begriff! Während in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten die Bezeichnung „Marker“ vor allem mit Tumorerkrankungen und deren klinisch-chemischer Diagnostik verbunden war, hat die „-omics“-Welle der letzten Dekade eine Unmenge an neuen „Markern“ für alles und jedes in die medizinische Literatur gespült. Insbesondere der unkritische Umgang mit jenen Markern und die Unerfahrenheit derjenigen, die durch neue Techniken in vormals rein naturwissenschaftlichen Fachgebieten in die Lage versetzt wurden, diese neuen Marker zu messen, haben nicht nur zu einer großen Verunsicherung in bezug auf die Wertigkeit von Biomarkern an sich, sondern auch zu einer großen Enttäuschung in den wie Strohfeuer aufflammenden „-omics“-Disziplinen geführt. Kaum einer der oft hervorragend publizierten Biomarker hat den Weg in die Klinik gefunden, hochzitierten Wissenschaftlern konnten elementarste Fehler in (Prä-)analytik und Interpretation nachgewiesen werden und selbst die bisher als anerkannt angesehenen „klassischen“ Tumormarker sind vielfach in Misskredit geraten. Zu Unrecht! Denn mit alten wie neuen Markern hat die Labormedizin hervorragende Werkzeuge in der Hand, die, richtig angewandt, nicht nur das Potential haben, die Labordiagnostik zu revolutionieren, sondern auch das Gesicht des Faches verändern werden, weg von einer in vitro quantifizierenden Hilfsdisziplin hin zu einer integrativen und interpretativen Wissenschaft.
Analytical And Numerical Solutions Of Metal High-Pressure Wave-Ring Gasket And Comparison With Experimental Results
Authors: Szybinski Bogdan , Trojnacki Andrzej
Published: April 2015

The paper deals with experimental investigations of a set of metal wave-ring gaskets of different thickness and different assembly interference. The gaskets were examined under assembly conditions, i.e. pressed in their seats with no operating pressure applied. The electric resistance wire strain gauges were used to measure the circumferential and axial strains at the inner surface of the gaskets. The traces of contact at the working surface of the gaskets were measured after disassembly the gaskets from their seats. The material tests were carried out to determine the real mechanical properties of materials applied for the gaskets and the seats. The results of experiment were verified by FEM calculations and compared with the analytical approach based on the simplified shell model proposed for the gasket.
The Control System Based on FPGA Technology For Fatigue Test Stand MZGS-100 PL
Authors: Macek Wojciech , Macha Ewald
Published: April 2015

The paper presents a solution of the control system for fatigue test stand MZGS- -100 PL, comprising the integrated Real-Time controller based on FPGA (Field- Programmable Gate Array) technology with LabVIEW software. The described control system performs functions such as continuous regulation of speed induction motor, measuring strain of the lever machine and the test specimen, displacement of the polyharmonic vibrator, as well as the elimination of interferences, overload protection and emergency stop of the machine. The fatigue test stand also allows to set the pseudo-random history of energy parameter W(t).
Crystal structure of 2-benzoyl-3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)cyclopropane-1,1- dicarbonitrile, C18H10Cl2N2O
Authors: Yanping Yi
Published: April 2015

C18H10Cl2N2O, triclinic, P1̄ (no. 2), a = 6.8195(5) Å, b = 9.6727(8) Å, c = 13.268(1) Å, α = 98.491(2)°, β = 100.571(2)°, γ = 107.434(2)°, V = 801.4 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0436, wRref(F2) = 0.1224, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of poly[(μ2-6-methyl 6-nicotinoylpicolinate- κ4O,O’,N:N’)-(tetrafluoroborato-κ1F)silver(I)], C13H10AgBF4N2O3
Authors: Xiao Guo-Wei , Chen Wen-Hua , Zhang Qi-Qi , Yan Hao-Jie
Published: April 2015

C13H10AgBF4N2O3, orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 13.2751(5) Å, b = 14.6212(5) Å, c = 15.5573(6) Å, V = 3019.6 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0498, wRref(F2) = 0.1423, T = 296 K.
Seasonal changes in phytoplankton and bioindices in the southern part of Lake Jeziorak (NE Poland)
Authors: Dembowska Ewa A. , Józefowicz Szymon
Published: April 2015

The structure of phytoplankton communities of Lake Jeziorak was presented for the first time. The objective of our research was qualitative and quantitative analysis and bioindices of phytoplankton during and outside the tourist season. Analysis of phytoplankton assemblages were performed in 2011-2012. A total of 96 taxa were identified in Lake Jeziorak, mainly: Cyanobacteria - 20, Bacillariophyceae - 49, and Chlorophyta − 19. Biomass of the phytoplankton varied from 10 mg l−1 in October to 29 mg l−1 in May. In the whole research period, Cyanobacteria dominated and represented up to 68% of the total biomass. The cyanobacterial blooms were constantly observed. Biomass in the summer period was composed of filamentous Aphanizomenon gracile, Limnothrix redekei, Planktothrix agardhii and Pseudanabaena limnetica. Outside the holiday season, i.e. in autumn and spring, filamentous Cyanobacteria accompanied cryptomonads in phytoplankton. The species composition, the biomass of phytoplankton, and TSI indicate the hypertrophic conditions of the lake. Phytoplankton in Lake Jeziorak was in a state of equilibrium for almost the entire study period. S1 was a dominant group and its abundance and biomass did not change by more than 10%. There was no significant direct effect of the seasonal tourism impact on the development of phytoplankton in Lake Jeziorak.
Social Movements and Political Opportunities: Lesbians, Gays and the Inclusion of Sexual Orientation in the Québec Charter of Human Rights
Authors: Tremblay Manon
Published: April 2015

In December 1977, the Québec government, formed by the Parti québécois (PQ), amended the Québec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms to include sexual orientation as a prohibited ground of discrimination. Québec thus became the first jurisdiction in North America to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. This paper examines the reasons why the PQ government stood ahead of everybody else in this matter. It argues that the Québec lesbian and gay movement drew on favorable political and cultural opportunities to secure legal protection against discrimination.
Population Responses in V1 Encode Different Figures by Response Amplitude
Authors: Gilad Ariel , Slovin Hamutal
Published: April 2015

The visual system simultaneously segregates between several objects presented in a visual scene. The neural code for encoding different objects or figures is not well understood. To study this question, we trained two monkeys to discriminate whether two elongated bars are either separate, thus generating two different figures, or connected, thus generating a single figure. Using voltage-sensitive dyes, we imaged at high spatial and temporal resolution V1 population responses evoked by the two bars, while keeping their local attributes similar among the two conditions. In the separate condition, unlike the connected condition, the population response to one bar is enhanced, whereas the response to the other is simultaneously suppressed. The response to the background remained unchanged between the two conditions. This divergent pattern developed ∼200 ms poststimulus onset and could discriminate well between the separate and connected single trials. The stimulus separation saliency and behavioral report were highly correlated with the differential response to the bars. In addition, the proximity and/or the specific location of the connectors seemed to have only a weak effect on this late activity pattern, further supporting the involvement of top-down influences. Additional neural codes were less informative about the separate and connected conditions, with much less consistency and discriminability compared with a response amplitude code. We suggest that V1 is involved in the encoding of each figure by different neuronal response amplitude, which can mediate their segregation and perception.
Effects of PTEN and Nogo Codeletion on Corticospinal Axon Sprouting and Regeneration in Mice
Authors: Geoffroy Cédric G. , Lorenzana Ariana O. , Kwan Jeffrey P. , Lin Kyle , Ghassemi Omeed , Ma Andrew , Xu Nuo , Creger Daniel , Liu Kai , He Zhigang , Zheng Binhai
Published: April 2015

Axons in the adult CNS have poor ability to grow after injury, impeding functional recovery in patients of spinal cord injury. This has been attributed to both a developmental decline in neuron-intrinsic growth ability and the presence of extrinsic growth inhibitors. We previously showed that genetic deletion of Nogo, an extrinsic inhibitor, promoted axonal sprouting from uninjured corticospinal tract (CST) neurons but not regeneration from injured CST neurons, whereas genetic deletion of PTEN, an intrinsic inhibitor, promoted both CST sprouting and regeneration. Here we test the hypothesis that combining an elevation of neuron-intrinsic growth ability and a reduction of extrinsic growth inhibition by genetic codeletion of PTEN and Nogo may further improve injury-induced axonal growth. In an apparent paradox, additionally deleting Nogo further enhanced CST regeneration but not sprouting in PTEN-deleted mice. Enhanced CST regeneration and sprouting in PTEN and PTEN/Nogo-deleted mice were associated with no or only temporary improvement in functional recovery. Our data illustrate that neuron-intrinsic and -extrinsic factors regulate axon regeneration and sprouting in complex ways and provide proof-of-principle evidence that targeting both can further improve regeneration. Neuron-intrinsic growth ability is an important determinant of neuronal responsiveness to changes in extrinsic growth inhibition, such that an elevated intrinsic growth state is a prerequisite for reducing extrinsic inhibition to take effect on CST regeneration. Meanwhile, additional strategies are required to unleash the full potential for functional recovery with enhanced axon regeneration and/or sprouting.
Requirement for BDNF in the Reconsolidation of Fear Extinction
Authors: Radiske Andressa , Rossato Janine I. , Köhler Cristiano A. , Gonzalez Maria Carolina , Medina Jorge H. , Cammarota Martín
Published: April 2015

Therapies based on the impairment of reconsolidation or the enhancement of extinction offer the possibility of decreasing the persistent recollection of distressing memories. However, the direct interplay between reconsolidation and extinction has rarely been considered. Previously, we reported that reactivation induces reconsolidation of fear extinction memory. Here, using a step-down inhibitory avoidance learning paradigm in rats, we show that intrahippocampus infusion of function-blocking anti-BDNF antibody immediately or 6 h after extinction memory reactivation impairs the reconsolidation of extinction. Extinction memory reactivation increasesproBDNF, BDNF, and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) phosphorylation levels in dorsal CA1, while blocking BDNF maturation in the hippocampus with plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 hinders the persistence of extinction and induces the recurrence of fear. Moreover, coinfusion of recombinant BDNF (0.25 μg/side) after extinction memory reactivation impedes the recovery of the avoidance response induced by inhibiting gene expression and protein synthesis in the dorsal hippocampus. Our findings unravel a new role for BDNF, suggesting that this neurotrophin is necessary and sufficient to maintain the reactivated fear extinction engram.
Cognitive Training Enhances Intrinsic Brain Connectivity in Childhood
Authors: Astle Duncan E. , Barnes Jessica J. , Baker Kate , Colclough Giles L. , Woolrich Mark W.
Published: April 2015

In human participants, the intensive practice of particular cognitive activities can induce sustained improvements in cognitive performance, which in some cases transfer to benefits on untrained activities. Despite the growing body of research examining the behavioral effects of cognitive training in children, no studies have explored directly the neural basis of these training effects in a systematic, controlled fashion. Therefore, the impact of training on brain neurophysiology in childhood, and the mechanisms by which benefits may be achieved, are unknown. Here, we apply new methods to examine dynamic neurophysiological connectivity in the context of a randomized trial of adaptive working memory training undertaken in children. After training, connectivity between frontoparietal networks and both lateral occipital complex and inferior temporal cortex was altered. Furthermore, improvements in working memory after training were associated with increased strength of neural connectivity at rest, with the magnitude of these specific neurophysiological changes being mirrored by individual gains in untrained working memory performance.
Insulin resistance in patients with type 1 diabetes assessed by glucose clamp studies: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Donga Esther , Dekkers Olaf M , Corssmit Eleonora P M , Romijn Johannes A
Published: April 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on insulin resistance in adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus compared to healthy controls, assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp studies.

Design and methods

We conducted a systematic search of publications using PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and COCHRANE Library. Hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp studies comparing adult patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus to healthy controls were eligible. Primary outcome measures were pooled mean differences of insulin sensitivity of endogenous glucose production (EGP), of glucose uptake and of lipolysis. We estimated mean (standardized) differences and 95% CIs using random effects meta-analysis.

Results

We included 38 publications in this meta-analysis. The weighed mean differences in EGP during hyperinsulinemia between patients and controls was 0.88 (95% CI: 0.47, 1.29) in the basal state and 0.52 (95% CI: 0.09, 0.95) in insulin stimulated conditions, indicating decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity in patients. Insulin sensitivity of glucose uptake was either reported asMvalue (M), glucose infusion rate (GIR), glucose disposal rate (GDR) or metabolic clearance rate (MCR). Weighed mean differences were similar forM−3.98 (95% CI: −4.68, −3.29) and GIR −4.61 (95% CI: −5.86, −3.53). Weighed mean difference for GDR was −2.43 (95% CI: −3.03, −1.83) and −3.29 (95% CI: −5.37, −1.22) for MCR, indicating decreased peripheral insulin sensitivity in patients. Insulin mediated inhibition of lipolysis was decreased in patients, reflected by increased non-esterified fatty acid levels.

Conclusions

Insulin resistance is a prominent feature of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and involves hepatic, peripheral and adipose tissues.
60 YEARS OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY: The posterior pituitary, from Geoffrey Harris to our present understanding
Authors: Leng Gareth , Pineda Rafael , Sabatier Nancy , Ludwig Mike
Published: April 2015

Geoffrey Harris pioneered our understanding of the posterior pituitary, mainly with experiments that involved the electrical stimulation of the supraoptico-hypophysial tract. In the present essay, we explain how his observations included clues to the pulsatile nature of the oxytocin signal – clues that were followed up by subsequent workers, including his students and their students. These studies ultimately led to our present understanding of the milk-ejection reflex and of the role of oxytocin in parturition. Discoveries of wide significance followed, including: the recognition of the importance of pulsatile hormone secretion; the recognition of the importance of stimulus-secretion coupling mechanisms in interpreting the patterned electrical activity of neurons; the physiological importance of peptide release in the brain; the recognition that peptide release comes substantially from dendrites and can be regulated independently of nerve terminal secretion; and the importance of dynamic morphological changes to neuronal function in the hypothalamus. All of these discoveries followed from the drive to understand the milk-ejection reflex. We also reflect on Harris's observations on vasopressin secretion, on the effects of stress, and on oxytocin secretion during sexual activity.
A challenging chat
Authors: Bell Patricia
Published: April 2015

At some stage or other, most haemophilia nurses will be faced with the pregnancy of an obligate carrier. As Trish Bell recounts, this can make for a difficult conversation and sleepless nights.
Complexity Reduction of Multiphase Flows in Heterogeneous Porous Media
Authors: Ghommem Mehdi , Gildin Eduardo , Ghasemi Mohammadreza
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we apply mode decomposition and interpolatory projection methods to speed up simulations of two-phase flows in heterogeneous porous media. We propose intrusive and nonintrusive model-reduction approaches that enable a significant reduction in the size of the subsurface flow problem while capturing the behavior of the fully resolved solutions. In one approach, we use the dynamic mode decomposition. This approach does not require any modification of the reservoir simulation code but rather post-processes a set of global snapshots to identify the dynamically relevant structures associated with the flow behavior. In the second approach, we project the governing equations of the velocity and the pressure fields on the subspace spanned by their proper-orthogonal-decomposition modes. Furthermore, we use the discrete empirical interpolation method to approximate the mobility-related term in the global-system assembly and then reduce the online computational cost and make it independent of the fine grid. To show the effectiveness and usefulness of the aforementioned approaches, we consider the SPE-10 benchmark permeability field, and present a numerical example in two-phase flow. One can efficiently use the proposed model-reduction methods in the context of uncertainty quantification and production optimization.
Crushed-Rock Vs. Full-Diameter Core Samples for Water-Saturation Determination in a Tight-Gas Siltstone Play
Authors: Wood J. M.
Published: April 2015

The efficacy of crushed-rock samples vs. small plugs or full-diameter core samples for measurement of porosity, permeability, and fluid saturation is an important consideration in the evaluation of tight-gas reservoirs and shale-gas reservoirs. Crushed-rock core analysis methods originally developed for shale reservoirs are now, in some cases, being extended to low-quality tight-gas reservoirs. In this study, crushed-rock and full-diameter core measurements from two wells drilled with oil-based mud are compared to evaluate which of the two core-analysis methods is more reliable for water-saturation assessment of a major North American tight-gas siltstone play (Montney Formation, western Canada). Measurements from the studied full-diameter core samples have wide ranges of water saturation (10 to 45%) and bulk volume water (BVW) (0.5 to 2.6%). In contrast, measurements from crushed-rock samples have much narrower ranges of water saturation (10 to 20%) and BVW (0.2 to 0.7%). The lower values and limited range of water-content measurements from crushed-rock samples suggest a significant degree of artificial water loss during sample handling in the laboratory. This conclusion is supported by comparing core-measured BVW with deep-resistivity values from openhole well logs. Full-diameter BVW measurements correlate well with log resistivity, indicating they are generally representative of in-situ reservoir conditions. Crushed-rock BVW values, on the other hand, show no correlation with log resistivity. The results of this study suggest caution is warranted in the use of crushed-rock samples for water-saturation measurements of siltstones or silty shales. Failure to recognize artificial water loss from crushed-rock siltstone samples could lead to an erroneous interpretation of irreducible water saturation at in-situ reservoir conditions with potentially serious implications for resource evaluation and exploitation.
Microbial, Urease Activities and Organic Matter Responses to Nitrogen Rate in Cultivated Soil
Authors: Jingjing Sun , Mijia Zhu , Xiaoqia Yang , Chi Zhang , Jun Yao
Published: April 2015

Nitrogen (N) fertilizer is an important field management, this paper was to investigate the responses of microbial activity measured by microcalorimetric technique, urease activity and organic matter to proper nitrogen (N) fertilizer in cultivated system in the North China Plain. The microcalorimetry results showed that microorganisms under proper N fertilizer rate got the efficient metabolism. The maximum heat production (Pmax) of microcalorimetry parameter implied that increasing the N fertilizer rate, Pmax did not increase always but firstly increased than decreased. In addition, from soil urease activity and organic matter studies, high soil urease activity due to both N fertilizer rate and growth stage and these had light influence on soil organic matter. These results suggest that only proper amount of N fertilizer rate and suitable topdressing for a good wheat-growing environment.
Study on the Deterioration Mechanism of Concrete Pavement for the Deicer-scaling
Authors: Jun Li , Pei-Wei Gao , Hong-Wei Liu
Published: April 2015

The mechanical properties of concrete pavement were studied under the various frost-salt conditions using Capillary Suction of De-icing Chemicals and Freeze-thaw Test Method (CDF method). The test results show that: with the increasing of freeze-thaw cycles, concrete surface damage has a tendency to accelerate. The concrete which is in a 5% concentration chloride snow-thawing agent solution has the greatest impact damage after 150 frost-salt cycles compared with soaking in other different densities (3%, 20%). Mixing appropriate amount of silica fume and high-performance air-entraining agent in concrete can effectively improve the resistance of frost-salt scaling. With the frost-salt cycles increase, the concrete strength and the relative dynamic elastic modulus continues to decrease.
The Control System Design of Hydraulic Hybrid Vehicle Based on CAN
Bus
Authors: Li Shigang , Liu Dandan , Xie Bin
Published: April 2015

The hybrid vehicle is a new type of green and energy efficient vehicle. Hydraulic accumulator and variable
pump/motor make up the break energy regeneration utilization system, which is the core of hydraulic auxiliary driving
unit. The hybrid drive system is composed of hydraulic auxiliary driving unit and the original vehicle drive system. As it
relates to the recovery of the braking energy and the situation of two kinds of power-driven vehicle, it brings complexity
to the hybrid distribution strategy, and an efficient energy control system is necessary. Based on CAN bus technology,
using the CAN2.0B communication protocol for the system design, the core hardware system is composed of PC/104
computer and CAN communication card, the key nodes of hydraulic auxiliary drive unit use DSP chip TMS320LF2407.
Experiments show that the system has a high communication reliability and high accuracy of dynamic coupling, the safety
of vehicles and the best energy matching.
The effect of sublethal short-duration exposure of paraoxon on pregnancy and fetuses in mice
Authors: Nurulain Syed , Shafiullah Mohamed , Sharma Charu , Ali Mahmoud , Ojha Shreesh
Published: April 2015

A convincing number of epidemiological studies have reported on the exposure
to and consequences of organophosphorus compounds (OPCs) in pregnant women.
However, there is still a knowledge gap and paucity of systematic literature
from animal studies. This study was undertaken with the hypothesis that
short-duration sublethal exposure to OPCs can produce maternal and fetal
lethal effects as chronic exposure. This study examineses the teratogenicity
and embryotoxicity of paraoxon (POX) in mice at a dose that is non-lethal to
non-pregnant mothers. Pregnant mice were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.)
with paraoxon (50 nmol/mouse) on the 4th and 5th days of gestation, and the
effect of the treatment was assessed on day 18 of gestation. This dose was
fatal to pregnant mice in 21% of instances as compared to non-pregnant
animals in which 0% mortality was detected, even after daily injection of a
similar dose for five days. Significant inhibition of red blood cell
acetylcholinesterase (RBC-AChE) was observed in pregnant mice as compared to
non-pregnant ones; however, no apparent neuronal effect was detected. Of note
were fetal weight decrement, pregnancy termination, intrauterine growth
retardation and maternal death. We concluded that exposure to even a
non-toxic dose might be critical for pregnant mothers, the pregnancy as well
as fetuses. In addition, even exposure of short duration can be detrimental
and capable of producing profound and fatal effects.
The Role of Auditors, Non-Auditors, and Internal Tax Departments in Corporate Tax Aggressiveness
Authors: Klassen Kenneth J. , Lisowsky Petro , Mescall Devan
Published: April 2015

Using confidential data from the Internal Revenue Service on who signs a corporation's tax return, we investigate whether the party primarily responsible for the tax compliance function of the firm—the auditor, an external non-auditor, or the internal tax department—is related to the corporation's tax aggressiveness. We report three key findings: (1) firms preparing their own tax returns or hiring a non-auditor claim more aggressive tax positions than firms using their auditor as the tax preparer; (2) auditor-provided tax services are related to tax aggressiveness even after considering tax preparer identity, which supports and extends prior research using tax fees as a proxy for tax planning; and (3) Big 4 tax preparers, in particular, are linked to less tax aggressiveness when they are the auditor than when they are not the auditor. Our findings help policymakers and researchers better understand an important feature of tax compliance intermediaries; particularly, how the dual role via audits is related to observable corporate tax outcomes.
Tax Treatment of “Carried Interest”
Authors: Burton Hughlene A. , Brock Noel
Published: April 2015

The term “carried interest” is typically used to refer to profits interests issued by investment partnerships to their manager(s). It is an ownership interest in a partnership that has no liquidation value at grant, but entitles the holder to a share in future partnership profits, if any. The term “carried interest” hails from the fact that the “carried interest” holder typically does not invest any of the holder's own capital in the partnership. Thus, the “carried interest” holder is “carried” by those who do invest capital in the partnership. Currently, the income that a “carried interest” receives is generally taxed as capital gain. Many commentators believe that income allocated by a partnership to “carried interest” holders should be taxed as compensation because the income is for the services the partner performs for the partnership. This paper will examine what the proper tax treatment of “carried interests” should be based on what is the most economically equitable, fair, and efficient method of taxation. Based on the equity and efficiency concepts, the authors suggest that a portion of all “carried interest” income should be taxed as a payment in exchange for services (i.e., as compensation)—regardless of the nature of the underlying assets inside the partnership and regardless of the nature of the business the partnership conducts. However, what qualifies as a “carried interest” and the portion of the income that should be taxed as compensation are not as easily defined.
The main occluding area in normal occlusion and mandibular prognathism
Authors: Kurokawa Makoto , Kanzaki Hiroyuki , Tokiwa Hajime , Handa Hideho , Nakaoka Kazutoshi , Hamada Yoshiki , Kato Hitoshi , Nakamura Yoshiki
Published: April 2015

Objective: 

To clarify whether the concept of main occluding area, where hard food is initially crushed, exists in patients who have a jaw deformity.

Materials and Methods: 

Nineteen subjects with normal occlusion, 18 patients with mandibular prognathism, and 11 patients with mandibular prognathism who had undergone orthognathic surgery participated in this study. The main occluding area was identified by clenching Temporary Stopping. The coincidence, location of the main occluding area, and distance from the first molars to main occluding area were examined.

Results: 

High coincidence of the main occluding area was obtained in all groups, signifying that the main occluding area exists even in these patients. Mandibular main occluding area was located on the first molar in all groups. Maxillary main occluding area in subjects with normal occlusion was located on the first molar. However, it was located on the second premolar and first molar in patients with mandibular prognathism, and on the first and second molars in patients with mandibular prognathism who had undergone orthognathic surgery. There was a statistically significant difference in distance from the maxillary first molar to the main occluding area among groups, but there was no difference in the distance from the mandibular first molar among groups.

Conclusion: 

The main occluding area is more stable on the mandibular first molar than the maxilla in all groups.
Dissecting Human Gene Functions Regulating Islet Development With Targeted Gene Transduction
Authors: Pauerstein Philip T. , Sugiyama Takuya , Stanley Susan E. , McLean Graeme W. , Wang Jing , Martín Martín G. , Kim Seung K.
Published: April 2015

During pancreas development, endocrine precursors and their progeny differentiate, migrate, and cluster to form nascent islets. The transcription factor Neurogenin 3 (Neurog3) is required for islet development in mice, but its role in these dynamic morphogenetic steps has been inferred from fixed tissues. Moreover, little is known about the molecular genetic functions of NEUROG3 in human islet development. We developed methods for gene transduction by viral microinjection in the epithelium of cultured Neurog3-null mutant fetal pancreas, permitting genetic complementation in a developmentally relevant context. In addition, we developed methods for quantitative assessment of live-cell phenotypes in single developing islet cells. Delivery of wild-type NEUROG3 rescued islet differentiation, morphogenesis, and live cell deformation, whereas the patient-derived NEUROG3R107S allele partially restored indicators of islet development. NEUROG3P39X, a previously unreported patient allele, failed to restore islet differentiation or morphogenesis and was indistinguishable from negative controls, suggesting that it is a null mutation. Our systems also permitted genetic suppression analysis and revealed that targets of NEUROG3, including NEUROD1 and RFX6, can partially restore islet development in Neurog3-null mutant mouse pancreata. Thus, advances described here permitted unprecedented assessment of gene functions in regulating crucial dynamic aspects of islet development in the fetal pancreas.
Effects of Antecedent GABA A Receptor Activation on Counterregulatory Responses to Exercise in Healthy Man
Authors: Hedrington Maka S. , Tate Donna B. , Younk Lisa M. , Davis Stephen N.
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether antecedent stimulation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) A receptors with the benzodiazepine alprazolam can blunt physiologic responses during next-day moderate (90 min) exercise in healthy man. Thirty-one healthy individuals (16 male/15 female aged 28 ± 1 year, BMI 23 ± 3 kg/m2) were studied during separate, 2-day protocols. Day 1 consisted of morning and afternoon 2-h hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic or hypoglycemic clamps with or without 1 mg alprazolam given 30 min before a clamp. Day 2 consisted of 90-min euglycemic cycling exercise at 50% VO2max. Despite similar euglycemia (5.3 ± 0.1 mmol/L) and insulinemia (46 ± 6 pmol/L) during day 2 exercise studies, GABA A activation with alprazolam during day 1 euglycemia resulted in significant blunting of plasma epinephrine, norepinephrine, glucagon, cortisol, and growth hormone responses. Lipolysis (glycerol, nonesterified fatty acids) and endogenous glucose production during exercise were also reduced, and glucose infusion rates were increased following prior euglycemia with alprazolam. Prior hypoglycemia with alprazolam resulted in further reduction of glucagon and cortisol responses during exercise. We conclude that prior activation of GABA A pathways can play a significant role in blunting key autonomous nervous system, neuroendocrine, and metabolic physiologic responses during next-day exercise in healthy man.