bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ABSENCE OF CHANGES IN DRUG DISPOSITION AND CATECHOLAMINE SENSITIVITY IN THE HYPERTHYROID DOG
Authors: ISHIZAKI TAKASHI , TAWARA KAZUJI
Published: May 2015

In order to study the relative contribution of hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes and hepatic blood flow to the clearance of drugs in the hyperthyroid state, the disposition kinetics of two model compounds (antipyrine and propranolol) were examined in thyroid‐fed dogs as compared to euthyroid and phenobarbitone‐pretreated animals.

In hyperthyroid dogs, the possibility of catecholamine hypersensitivity was evaluated by assessing the chronotropic response to isoprenaline and by constructing a drug concentration‐effect (β‐blockade) relationship.

The plasma propranolol half‐life (0.97 ± 0.12 h) of the hyperthyroid animals did not differ significantly from either the euthyroid group or the phenobarbitone‐pretreated group. This was observed with no significant change in the apparent volume of distribution among the three experimental groups.

Phenobarbitone pretreatment accelerated significantly the elimination of antipyrine (half‐life, 1.09 ± 0.15 h, P < 0.01) as compared to the euthyroid (2.84 ± 0.35 h) and the hyperthyroid groups (2.58 ± 0.13 h), respectively, without any changes in the apparent volume of distribution in any group.

Neither the chronotropic responses to exogenously administered catecholamine, nor the antagonist concentration‐effect relationships support the concept that the hyperthyroid state potentiates sensitivity of the receptor‐effect system of the heart.

The data obtained from the present study fit best with the view that thyroid hormone excess alters neither the disposition of the model compounds used nor the catecholamine‐sensitivity examined.
ANTAGONISM OF PROSTANOID‐INDUCED CONTRACTIONS OF RAT GASTRIC FUNDUS MUSCLE BY SC‐19220, SODIUM MECLOFENAMATE, INDOMETHACIN OR TRIMETHOQUINOL
Authors: BENNETT A. , JAROSIK C. , SANGER G.J. , WILSON D.E.
Published: May 2015

The effects of SC‐19220, sodium meclofenamate, indomethacin or trimethoquinol were studied on contractions of the rat stomach longitudinal muscle to prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), PGE2, PGF2α, PGH2, epoxymethano PGH2 analogues, PGI2, 6‐keto‐PGF1α, 6,15‐diketo‐PGF1α and thromboxane B2. All the drugs reduced contractions to all the prostanoids, but the degree of reduction differed widely. Selectivity of blockade was assessed by comparison with acetylcholine (ACh).

With SC‐19220 5 μg/ml the effect on thromboxane B2, PGD2 or PGH2 and its epoxymethano analogues was not significantly different from the small effect on ACh, but the other prostanoids were blocked to greater extents.

The effect of the cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor sodium meclofenamate, 1 or 2 μg/ml, on 6,15‐diketo‐PGF1α or thromboxane B2 was similar to the small antagonism of ACh, whereas the other prostanoids were blocked to greater extents. Indomethacin, 1 μg/ml, also reduced contractions to the prostanoids, but antagonism of the PGH2 epoxymethano analogues was considerably less than with meclofenamate.

The β‐adrenoceptor stimulant trimethoquinol, 50 ng/ml, was the most potent prostanoid antagonist tested; all the prostanoids except PGE2 were antagonized more than ACh.
EVIDENCE FOR SPECIFIC ADENOSINE RECEPTORS AT CHOLINERGIC NERVE ENDINGS
Authors: SILINSKY E.M.
Published: May 2015

An electrophysiological study was made to determine if adenosine and adenine nucleotides affect cholinergic nerve endings to frog skeletal muscle through relatively non‐specific nucleotide receptors or through specific adenosine receptors.

Non‐hydrolysable derivatives of adenosine triphosphate failed to alter the mean number of acetylcholine (ACh) quanta released by a nerve impulse (m̄) or the miniature endplate potential frequency (m.e.p.p.f) but N6‐methyladenosine and 2‐chloroadenosine, two adenosine analogues with an unsubstituted ribose moiety (R‐site agonists), produced marked reductions in m̄ and m.e.p.p.f.

In contrast, 2′‐deoxyadenosine, a derivative with an unsubstituted purine ring (P‐site agonist), generally produced increases in m̄ and m.e.p.p.f, which further increased after removing the drug. Other P‐site agonists such as 5′‐deoxyadenosine (in the presence of theophylline) and 9‐β‐d‐arabinofuranosyl adenine also increased m̄ and m.e.p.p.f.

The results suggest that two types of adenosine receptors may be present at cholinergic nerve endings, one type (R‐site) mediating depression and the other type (P‐site) producing enhancement of ACh release.
INHIBITORY ACTIONS OF METHIONINE‐ENKEPHALIN AND MORPHINE ON THE CAT CAROTID CHEMORECEPTORS
Authors: McQUEEN D.S. , RIBEIRO J.A.
Published: May 2015

The effects of intracarotid injections of methionine‐enkephalin (Met‐enkephalin) and morphine on chemoreceptor activity recorded from the peripheral end of a sectioned carotid sinus nerve have been studied in cats anaesthetized with pentobarbitone.

Met‐enkephalin caused a rapid, powerful, inhibition of spontaneous chemoreceptor discharge, the intensity and duration of which was dose‐dependent.

Morphine was a less potent inhibitor of spontaneous chemoreceptor discharge, and the inhibition it evoked was rather variable and tended to be biphasic. Low doses of morphine caused a slight increase in discharge.

Naloxone (0.2 mg i.c.) slightly increased spontaneous discharge, greatly reduced the chemo‐inhibition caused by morphine, and reduced the inhibitory effect of Met‐enkephalin. A higher dose of naloxone (0.8 mg) caused a substantial reduction of the Met‐enkephalin effect.

Chemo‐excitation evoked by intracarotid injections of acetylcholine, CO2‐saturated Locke solution, and sodium cyanide were only slightly and somewhat variably reduced following injections of Met‐enkephalin, whereas the inhibitory effect of dopamine was potentiated. Following morphine administration, responses to acetylcholine and sodium cyanide were reduced slightly, whereas those to CO2 and dopamine were potentiated.

Responses to acetylcholine and CO2 were slightly potentiated during infusion of Met‐enkephalin (50 μg/min, i.c.) and the response to sodium cyanide was slightly reduced.

It is concluded that naloxone‐sensitive opiate receptors are present in the cat carotid body; when activated they cause inhibition of spontaneous chemoreceptor discharge. The physiological role of these receptors and the identity of any endogenous ligand remains to be established.
VASORELAXANT ACTION OF CAROVERINE FUMARATE (A QUINOXALINE DERIVATIVE), A CALCIUM‐BLOCKING AGENT
Authors: ISHIDA YUKISATO , OZAKI HIROSHI , SHIBATA SHOJI
Published: May 2015

Caroverine fumarate, 1‐(2‐diethylaminoethyl)‐3‐(p‐methoxy‐benzyl)‐1,2‐dihydro‐2‐quinoxalinone fumarate, caused a greater inhibition of the pressor response to KCl (8 × 10−2 m) than that to noradrenaline (10−6 m) in the rat hindquarter preparation.

In the isolated aorta of the rat, caroverine (up to 10−6 m) markedly suppressed the contraction caused by KCl (4 × 10−2 m) (high‐K) but had little effect on the contractile response to noradrenaline (10−6 m) whether added before the spasmogen or in its presence.

In the high‐K‐treated aorta, caroverine shifted the concentration‐response curve for external calcium to the right, competitively. The negative logarithm of the affinity (pA2) of caroverine was calculated to be approx. 7.

Increased 45Ca uptake of the high‐K‐treated aorta measured by a modified lanthanum method was inhibited by either caroverine (3 × 10−6 m) or verapamil (10−6 m).

Concentrations of caroverine and verapamil reducing high‐K‐induced aortic contraction to 50% of its maximum were 2.4 × 10−7 and 6.6 × 10−8 m respectively.

Following washout the caroverine‐induced inhibition of high‐K‐induced aortic contraction was more rapidly restored than the verapamil‐induced inhibition.

These results suggest that caroverine fumarate is a specific and readily reversible calcium influx inhibitor in the rat vascular smooth muscle.
Low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) greater than 100 mg/dL as a quality indicator: locating risk in person, place and time
Authors: Rohrer James E. , Doganer Yusuf C. , Merry Stephen P. , Angstman Kurt B. , Erickson Jacob L. , Furst Joseph W.
Published: May 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Achieving control over elevated lipid parameters, particularly low‐density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol, is an acknowledged quality indicator in primary care. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s model for investigation of outbreaks (person–place–time) can be applied to the analysis of quality indicators.

Methods

A sample of 322 family medicine patients for whom lipid levels were ordered was extracted. LDL > 100 mg/dL was cross‐tabulated by personal characteristics [age group, gender, body mass index (BMI), diagnoses], month (time) and ordering department (place).

Results

Age (except one age category), gender, time and location were not related to LDL > 100 mg/dL after adjustment for covariates. All levels of BMI above normal elevated the risk of LDL > 100 mg/dL [BMI 25–29.9: odds ratio (OR) = 3.41, confidence interval (CI) = 1.61–7.23, P = 0.0014; BMI 30–34.9: OR = 2.93, CI = 1.28–6.70, P = 0.0109; BMI ≥ 35: OR = 2.75, CI = 1.19–6.37, P = 0.0181]. Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) were at reduced risk for LDL > 100 mg/dL (CAD: OR = 0.47, CI = 0.24–0.91, P = 0.0254; DM: OR = 0.28, CI = 0.14–0.55, P = 0.0002).

Conclusion

An outbreak investigation model is useful for analysing variations in this quality indicator. Patients with higher BMI and those not diagnosed with CAD or DM type I/II may be considered for intensified lipid lowering using quality improvement efforts. These might include counselling for lifestyle changes or medication therapy depending upon their calculated cardiac risk.
Do all the patients with vitamin B12 deficiency have pernicious anemia?
Authors: Sun Andy , Chang Julia Y.‐F. , Wang Yi‐Ping , Cheng Shih‐Jung , Chen Hsin‐Ming , Chiang Chun‐Pin
Published: May 2015

Background

Vitamin B12 deficiency may result in pernicious anemia (PA). This study evaluated whether all the patients with vitamin B12 deficiency had PA.

Methods

The blood hemoglobin (Hb), iron, vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine concentrations and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in 90 vitamin B12‐deficient patients were measured and compared with the corresponding data in 180 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects. PA was defined by World Health Organization (WHO) as having an Hb concentration <13 g/dl for men and <12 g/dl for women, an MCV ≧ 100 fl, a serum vitamin B12 level <200 pg/ml, and serum gastric parietal cell antibody (GPCA) positivity.

Results

We found that 35 (38.9%) and 20 (22.2%) patients with vitamin B12 deficiency had deficiencies of Hb (men <13 g/dl, women <12 g/dl) and iron (<60 μg/dl), respectively. Moreover, 65 (72.2%) and 37 (41.1%) patients with vitamin B12 deficiency had abnormally high blood homocysteine level (>12.7 μM) and high MCV (≧100 fl), respectively. In addition, 43 (47.8%) vitamin B12‐deficient patients with had GPCA positivity. Patients with vitamin B12 deficiency had a significantly higher frequency of Hb or iron deficiency, of abnormally elevated blood homocysteine level or high MCV, and of GPCA positivity than healthy control subjects (all P‐values < 0.001). However, only 17 (18.9%) of 90 vitamin B12‐deficient patients were diagnosed as having PA by the WHO definition.

Conclusion

Only 18.9% of patients with vitamin B12 deficiency are discovered to have PA by the WHO definition.
Dietary supplementation with glutamine and γ‐aminobutyric acid improves growth performance and serum parameters in 22‐ to 35‐day‐old broilers exposed to hot environment
Authors: Hu H. , Bai X. , Shah A. A. , Wen A. Y. , Hua J. L. , Che C. Y. , He S. J. , Jiang J. P. , Cai Z. H. , Dai S. F.
Published: May 2015

This study was designed using 360 21‐day‐old chicks to determine the influences of diet supplementation with glutamine (5 g/kg), γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA, 100 mg/kg) or their combinations on performance and serum parameters exposed to cycling high temperatures. From 22 to 35 days, the experimental groups (2 × 2) were subjected to circular heat stress by exposing them to 30–34 °C cycling, while the positive control group was exposed to 23 °C constant. The blood of broilers was collected to detect serum parameters on days 28 and 35. Compared with the positive control group, the cycling high temperature decreased (p < 0.05) the feed consumption, weight gain and serum total protein (TP), glucose, thyroxine (T4), insulin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), glutamine, GABA and glutamate levels, while increased (p < 0.05) the serum triglyceride (TG), corticosterone (CS), glucagon (GN), creatine kinase (CK), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels during 22–35 days. However, dietary glutamine (5 g/kg) increased (p < 0.05) the feed consumption, weight gain and serum levels of glutamine, TP, insulin and ALP, but decreased (p < 0.05) the serum TG, CK, GOT, NOS and GPT levels. Diet supplemented with GABA also increased (p < 0.05) weight gain and the serum levels of TP, T4, ALP, GABA and glutamine. In addition, the significant interactions (p < 0.05) between glutamine and GABA were found in the feed consumption, weight gain and the serum ALP, CK, LDH, GABA, T3 and T4 levels of heat‐stressed chickens. This research indicated that dietary glutamine and GABA improved the antistress ability in performance and serum parameters of broilers under hot environment.
Opportunistic fungal infections in dogs treated with ciclosporin and glucocorticoids: eight cases
Authors: Dowling S. R. , Webb J. , Foster J. D. , Ginn J. , Foy D. S. , Trepanier L. A.
Published: May 2015

Glucocorticoids are the standard of care for the treatment of immune‐mediated disorders, and ciclosporin is increasingly being used off‐label as an adjunct immunosuppressive drug in dogs. However, opportunistic infections can develop during combination immunosuppressive regimens. This case series describes atypical fungal infections in eight dogs treated with immunosuppressive dosages of glucocorticoids and ciclosporin. The median duration of combined treatment prior to the identification of fungal infection was 31 (range, 13 to 201) days, although two dogs received glucocorticoids for prolonged periods prior to the addition of ciclosporin. The estimated prevalence of serious fungal infections with this drug combination appears to be low (approximately 1 · 67%), but these infections led directly or indirectly to death or euthanasia in five of eight (63%) dogs. These cases highlight the need for frequent clinical monitoring of dogs receiving immunosuppressive dosages of glucocorticoids and ciclosporin.
Impact of Physical Resistance Training on the Sexual Function of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Lara Lúcia Alves Silva , Ramos Fabiene Karine Piccki , Kogure Gislaine Satiko , Costa Rafael Silva , Silva de Sá Marcos Felipe , Ferriani Rui Alberto , dos Reis Rosana Maria
Published: May 2015

Introduction

There is a need for specific measures to address overall care in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Physical resistance training (PRT) has been shown to improve certain body parameters. However, the effect of PRT on the sexual function of PCOS women has not been evaluated.

Aim

The study aimed to assess sexual function and emotional status of PCOS women after 16 weeks of PRT.

Methods

This case-control study involved 43 women with PCOS and 51 control ovulatory women, aged 18–37 years. All women were subjected to a supervised PRT protocol for 16 weeks and evaluated at the end of the program. Sexual function was assessed at baseline and after PRT protocol.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measure used was the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Results

Of the 43 women with PCOS, 30 (69.70%) had a basal total FSFI score ≤ 26.55 and 24 of them (58.54%) had a score ≤ 26.55 after PRT (P = 0.08). Of the 51 control women, 32 (62.7%) and 27 (52.9%) had FSFI scores < 26.55 at baseline and after PRT, respectively (P = 0.06). Control women experienced a significant improvement in pain domain score after PRT (P < 0.03). PCOS women experienced significant increases in total score and in the desire, excitement and lubrication domains after PRT (P < 0.01 each). After PRT, there was a significant difference between the PCOS and control groups in the sexual desire domain (4.09 ± 1.29 vs. 3.75 ± 1.42, P = 0.04). Significantly fewer women in the PCOS group were at risk of depression (P < 0.01) and anxiety (P < 0.02) after than before PRT, whereas the differences in the control group were not significant. Mean depression and anxiety scores were reduced significantly in both the PCOS (P < 0.01 each) and control (P < 0.01) groups.

Conclusions

PRT significantly enhanced total score and the desire, excitement, and lubrication domains of the FSFI in PCOS women. PRT reduced pain, and total depression and anxiety scores in both groups.
Stigma as a barrier to treatment for child acute malnutrition in Marsabit County, Kenya
Authors: Bliss Jessica Robin , Njenga Martin , Stoltzfus Rebecca Joyce , Pelletier David Louis
Published: May 2015

Acute malnutrition affects millions of children each year, yet global coverage of life‐saving treatment through the community‐based management of acute malnutrition (CMAM) is estimated to be below 15%. We investigated the potential role of stigma as a barrier to accessing CMAM. We surveyed caregivers bringing children to rural health facilities in Marsabit County, Kenya, divided into three strata based on the mid‐upper arm circumference of the child: normal status (n = 327), moderate acute malnutrition (MAM, n = 241) and severe acute malnutrition (SAM, n = 143). We used multilevel mixed effects logistic regression to estimate the odds of reporting shame as a barrier to accessing health care. We found that the most common barriers to accessing child health care were those known to be universally problematic: women's time and labour constraints. These constituted the top five most frequently reported barriers regardless of child acute malnutrition status. In contrast, the odds of reporting shame as a barrier were 3.64 (confidence interval: 1.66–8.03, P < 0.05) times higher in caregivers of MAM and SAM children relative to those of normal children. We conclude that stigma is an under‐recognized barrier to accessing CMAM and may constrain programme coverage. In light of the large gap in coverage of CMAM, there is an urgent need to understand the sources of acute malnutrition‐associated stigma and adopt effective means of de‐stigmatization.
Semiparametric small area estimation for binary outcomes with application to unemployment estimation for local authorities in the UK
Authors: Chambers Ray , Salvati Nicola , Tzavidis Nikos
Published: May 2015

A new semiparametric and robust approach to small area estimation for discrete outcomes is proposed. The methodology represents an efficient and easily computed alternative to prediction by using a generalized linear mixed model and is based on an extension of M-quantile regression. In addition, two estimators of the prediction mean-squared error are described: one based on Taylor linearization and another based on the block bootstrap. The methodology proposed is applied to UK annual Labour Force Survey data for estimating the proportion of the unemployed in local authorities in the UK. The properties of estimators are further empirically assessed in model-based simulations.
Fatal false‐negative transfusion infection involving a buffy coat platelet pool contaminated with biofilm‐positive Staphylococcus epidermidis: a case report
Authors: Kou Yuntong , Pagotto Franco , Hannach Barbara , Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates (PCs) poses the major posttransfusion infectious risk in developed countries. The aerobic microorganism most frequently isolated from PCs is coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus epidermidis, a normal inhabitant of the human skin, which has been involved in fatal transfusion reactions worldwide.

CASE REPORT

In September 2014, a splenectomized elderly male patient, suffering from leukemia, was transfused with two 5‐day‐old buffy coat platelet (PLT) pools. The patient returned to emergency on the same day with a low‐grade fever. He was bacteremic and died on the next day. Microbiology and molecular testing of a blood sample from the patient and one of the PCs yielded the same S. epidermidis strain. Further analysis demonstrated that this S. epidermidis isolate displays a biofilm‐positive phenotype in PCs.

DISCUSSION

At Canadian Blood Services, PCs are screened for bacterial contamination with the BacT/ALERT system (bioMérieux) at approximately 24 hours postcollection. The implicated PC had been tested and yielded a false‐negative culture result. A titration experiment indicated that, at the time of screening, the contaminated PC had a titer of less than 0.74 colony‐forming units (CFU)/mL (<227 CFUs/unit) of S. epidermidis. Mathematical models have predicted that up to 70% of PCs contaminated with coagulase‐negative staphylococci at concentrations of 0.02 CFU/mL can be missed by BacT/ALERT screening.

CONCLUSION

Despite several mitigation strategies, false‐negative cultures with current PLT screening practices still occur. This report creates awareness of the pathogenicity of opportunistic S. epidermidis, a low‐virulence organism, in susceptible patients who may not develop a typical transfusion reaction.
Nanofiltration to remove microparticles and decrease the thrombogenicity of plasma: in vitro feasibility assessment
Authors: Chou Ming‐Li , Lin Liang‐Tzung , Devos David , Burnouf Thierry
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

As plasma contains procoagulant microparticles (MPs), removing MPs by 75‐nm nanofiltration may decrease plasma in vitro thrombogenicity while maintaining the hemostatic activity from coagulation factors.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We defined conditions to nanofilter leukoreduced plasma on a 75‐nm hollow‐fiber membrane filter. Plasma quality was assessed by coagulation, immunochemical, and electrophoretic assays. MP removal was evaluated by biophysical (flow cytometry, dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and tunable resistive pulse sensing) and functional (thrombin generation assay [TGA; Technothrombin], prothrombinase [Zymuphen MP‐activity], tissue factor [Zymuphen MP‐TF], and procoagulant phospholipid‐dependent clotting time [STA‐Procoag‐PPL] assays) methods. Spiking experiments using platelet MPs were performed to determine extent of removal by nanofiltration.

RESULTS

Freshly collected leukoreduced, but not previously frozen, plasma could be readily nanofiltered on a 0.01‐m2 75‐nm nanofilter under conditions preserving protein and lipoprotein profile, coagulation factor content, and global coagulation activity (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time). Biophysical methods confirmed an extensive removal of MPs during nanofiltration. All functional assays indicated a marked reduction of plasma in vitro thrombogenicity. There was no thrombin generation in nanofiltered plasma tested by TGA assay with “RC‐low phospholipid concentration” reagent, while it was similar to that of starting and leukoreduced plasma samples when using “RC‐high phospholipid concentration” reagent. More than 9 log of MPs were removed by nanofiltration.

CONCLUSION

Nanofiltration of 75 nm efficiently removes MPs and decreases in vitro thrombogenicity of plasma without affecting the protein content or the hemostatic activity of coagulation factors. Studies are needed to evaluate the impact of MP removal on in vivo thrombogenic risks and hemostatic efficacy.
Routine filtration of hematopoietic stem cell products: the time has arrived
Authors: Paulson Kristjan , Gilpin Scott G. , Shpiruk Tanner A. , Anjos Karla , Tulloch Marie , Giftakis Angleine , Blankstein Anna R. , Szwajcer David , Wall Donna A.
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND

Most blood products are infused at the time of transfusion through a standard blood filter, designed to capture macroaggregates and cellular debris that might be harmful to the patient if infused. Hematopoietic stem cell products are not universally filtered, likely due to concern about loss of viable stem cells in the filtration process.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a two‐phase study to better understand the safety of routine filtration. First, surplus cryopreserved stem cell products were thawed and filtered, with markers of viability and potency measured. Second, routine filtration was implemented as part of routine practice at our center, and date of neutrophil and platelet (PLT) recovery was compared to historical controls.

RESULTS

In the first phase, there was no difference seen in any markers of viability or potency for products after routine filtration. Based on those results, routine filtration was implemented. There was no difference in neutrophil or PLT engraftment. Thus, in this study, routine filtration did not impact the number of viable stem cells and did not delay engraftment.

CONCLUSION

Given the very real harm posed by infusion of macroaggregates and cellular debris, and no clear disadvantage to filtration, routine filtration of stem cell products should be considered the standard of care.
Comparative morphology of the snake spectacle using light and transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Da Silva Mari‐Ann O. , Bertelsen Mads F. , Wang Tobias , Prause Jan U. , Svahn Thøger , Heegaard Steffen
Published: May 2015

Objective

To determine the interspecific variation in the morphology of the snake spectacle.

Animals studied

About 43 snakes of 14 different species, belonging to three different families: Boidae, Colubridae, and Pythonidae.

Procedure

The spectacles were examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. The thickness of the stromal layer was measured and the location of the blood vessels was noted. The shape of the transition zone located at the rim of the spectacle and the presence of pigment herein were also recorded.

Results

The spectacles of all species examined consisted of three layers. The outer epithelium was made of basal cells with overlaying keratin layers, the stroma comprised layers of organized collagen fibrils, and the inner epithelium was a layer of squamous cells with microvilli. Blood vessels were found in the stroma of all spectacles: in boas and pythons in the middle layers of the stroma and in colubrids adjacent to the inner epithelium. Boas and pythons were endowed with the thickest stromal layers (81–132 μm) compared to colubrids (9–95 μm). Boas and pythons had a convex transition zone, while the transition zone of the colubrids exhibited a steady increase in spectacle thickness toward the hinge region. The transition zone contained pigment in boas and pythons.

Conclusion

The overall morphology of the spectacle was similar among the major families of snakes. However, the location of blood vessels and appearance of transition zone differed, as did the overall thickness of the spectacle.
Multi-objective Optimization of a Regenerative Rotorcraft Powerplant: Trade-off Between Overall Engine Weight and Fuel Economy
Authors: Ali Fakhre , Tzanidakis Konstantinos , Goulos Ioannis , Pachidis Vassilios , d'Ippolito Roberto
Published: May 2015

A computationally efficient and cost effective simulation framework has been implemented to perform design space exploration and multi-objective optimization for a conceptual regenerative rotorcraft powerplant configuration at mission level. The proposed framework is developed by coupling a comprehensive rotorcraft mission analysis code with a design space exploration and optimization package. The overall approach is deployed to design and optimize the powerplant of a reference twin-engine light rotorcraft, modeled after the Bo105 helicopter, manufactured by Airbus Helicopters. Initially, a sensitivity analysis of the regenerative engine is carried out to quantify the relationship between the engine thermodynamic cycle design parameters, engine weight, and overall mission fuel economy. Second, through the execution of a multi-objective optimization strategy, a Pareto front surface is constructed, quantifying the optimum trade-off between the fuel economy offered by a regenerative engine and its associated weight penalty. The optimum sets of cycle design parameters obtained from the structured Pareto front suggest that the employed heat effectiveness is the key design parameter affecting the engine weight and fuel efficiency. Furthermore, through quantification of the benefits suggested by the acquired Pareto front, it is shown that the fuel economy offered by the simple cycle rotorcraft engine can be substantially improved with the implementation of regeneration technology, without degrading the payload-range capability and airworthiness (one-engine-inoperative) of the rotorcraft.
Design of Air-Cooled Heat Sink for a 55-kW Power Inverter With Laminar Flow
Authors: Arimilli Rao V. , Nejad Ali Hossein , Ekici Kivanc
Published: May 2015

A methodology is developed for the design of an air-cooled 55-kW-rated inverter heat sink. The design constraints are that the power density (PD) must meet or exceed the values associated with liquid-cooled systems of the same power rating, and that the maximum surface temperatures be less than 200 °C. To keep the pressure drop low relative to turbulent flow designs, a laminar flow regime is chosen. A preliminary design that satisfies the PD constraint exactly, and the thermal requirements approximately, is determined. To ensure that the thermal requirements are met by the design configuration, a thermal-fluid analysis based on a three-dimensional conjugate heat transfer model is conducted. Overall, energy balance errors (OEBEs) as high as 15% were encountered in the numerical models. These errors are reduced by taking advantage of the symmetry between fins using a typical unit cell model. A new simplified approach for the simulations was identified which involved modeling fins as highly conductive layers instead of solid domains. This further reduced the OEBEs to less than 0.004%. The design factors considered in this study include effective cooling surface area, fin thickness, fin spacing, and fin height. The results show that the maximum surface temperatures can be kept below 200 °C for safe operation of SiC devices in the inverter module while increasing the PD.
A Resistance–Capacitance Model for Real-Time Calculation of Cooling Load in HVAC-R Systems
Authors: Fayazbakhsh M. A. , Bagheri F. , Bahrami M.
Published: May 2015

Simulating the real-time thermal behavior of rooms subject to air conditioning (AC) and refrigeration is a key to cooling load calculations. A well-established resistance–capacitance (RC) model is employed that utilizes a representative network of electric resistors and capacitors to simulate the thermal behavior of such systems. A freezer room of a restaurant is studied during its operation, and temperature measurements are used for model validation. Parametric study is performed on different properties of the system. It is shown that a reduction of 20% in the walls thermal resistivity can increase the energy consumption rate by 15%. The effect of set points on the number of compressor starts/stops is also studied, and it is shown that narrow set points can result in a steady temperature pattern in exchange for a high number of compressor starts/stops per hour. The proposed technique provides an effective tool for facilitating the thermal modeling of air conditioned and refrigerated rooms. Using this approach, engineering calculations of cooling load can be performed with outstanding simplicity and accuracy.
Increasing the Availability of Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults: Lessons Learned From Texercise Stakeholders
Authors: Stevens Alan B. , Thiel Shannon B. , Thorud Jennifer L. , Smith Matthew Lee , Howell Doris , Cargill Jessica , Swierc Suzanne M. , Ory Marcia G.
Published: May 2015

Many initiatives have been developed to facilitate older adults’ engagement in physical activity (PA) and document its benefits. One example is Texercise, a 12-week program with a focus on increasing participants’ self-efficacy. The goal of this paper is to augment the knowledgebase of PA program implementation and dissemination by elucidating the experience of Texercise implementation as perceived by multiple stakeholders. We conducted 28 semistructured stakeholder interviews and categorized the responses into four preset themes: (1) program delivery and advocacy; (2) value/merit of the program; (3) successes/challenges of offering and sustaining the program; and (4) recommendations for enhancing implementation and delivery. We identified emergent subthemes through further analysis. Many perceptions that are broadly applicable to community organizations emerged. Our findings highlight the importance of stakeholder support when embedding PA programs in communities. Furthermore, the findings are crucial to understanding underlying processes that support widespread program dissemination and sustainability.
Inflammation decreases keratin level in ulcerative colitis; inadequate restoration associates with increased risk of colitis-associated cancer
Authors: Corfe Bernard M , Majumdar Debabrata , Assadsangabi Arash , Marsh Alexandra M R , Cross Simon S , Connolly Joanne B , Evans Caroline A , Lobo Alan J
Published: May 2015

Background

Keratins are intermediate filament (IF) proteins, which form part of the epithelial cytoskeleton and which have been implicated pathology of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).

Methods

In this study biopsies were obtained from IBD patients grouped by disease duration and subtype into eight categories based on cancer risk and inflammatory status: quiescent recent onset (<5 years) UC (ROUC); UC with primary sclerosing cholangitis; quiescent long-standing pancolitis (20–40 years) (LSPC); active colitis and non-inflamed proximal colonic mucosa; pancolitis with dysplasia-both dysplastic lesions (DT) and distal rectal mucosa (DR); control group without pathology. Alterations in IF protein composition across the groups were determined by quantitative proteomics. Key protein changes were validated by western immunoblotting and immunohistochemical analysis.

Result

Acute inflammation resulted in reduced K8, K18, K19 and VIM (all p<0.05) compared to controls and non inflamed mucosa; reduced levels of if– associated proteins were also seen in DT and DR. Increased levels of keratins in LSPC was noted relative to controls or ROUC (K8, K18, K19 and VIM, p<0.05). Multiple K8 forms were noted on immunoblotting, with K8 phosphorylation reduced in progressive disease along with an increase in VIM:K8 ratio. K8 levels and phosphorylation are reduced in acute inflammation but appear restored or elevated in subjects with clinical and endoscopic remission (LSPC) but not apparent in subjects with elevated risk of cancer.

Conclusions

These data suggest that keratin regulation in remission may influence subsequent cancer risk.
Optimization of Multiple Response Characteristics of EDM Process Using Taguchi-Based Grey Relational Analysis and Modified PSO
Authors: Panda S. , Mishra D. , Biswal B. B. , Nanda P.
Published: May 2015

Electrical discharge machining is an alternative process for machining complex and intricate shapes. In this paper, an inter-relationship of various electrical discharge machining parameters, namely discharge current, pulse on and off time and dielectric flow rate on material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR), surface finish ( SR a) and dimensional tolerance using a Taguchi–Grey relational analysis. The response surface methodology is used to develop a second order model for MRR, TWR and SR a in terms of process parameters. Finally, a multi-objective optimization problem is formulated by using MRR, TWR and SR a. The multi-objective problem is then optimized through a modified particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to find the optimum level of parameters. In this research, the results of the proposed method are validated through confirmation experiment. The work piece material used for experimentation is stainless steel of S304 grade.
Effects of Insert Geometry and Feed Rate on Quality Characteristics of Turned Parts
Authors: Islam M. N. , Pramanik A.
Published: May 2015

This paper investigates experimentally and analytically the influence of insert geometry and feed rate on the quality characteristics of turned parts under the dry cutting condition. A three-level, three-parameter experiment was planned using the design of experiment methodology. The three levels of independent input parameters were: insert shape–rhombus, triangle, and square; nose radius 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2 mm; and feed rate–0.11, 0.22 and 0.33 mm/rev. The measured output parameters were the three most widely used quality characteristics of turned parts–diameter error, circularity and surface finish (arithmetic average). The results were analyzed using three methods: traditional analysis, Pareto analysis of variation and Taguchi method. The results reveal that two of the selected tool geometry parameters, insert shape and nose radius, influence diameter error considerably (total contribution 66.97%) and have minor effects on circularity (total contribution 3.67%) and surface finish (total contribution 11.60%). Feed rate is the major contributor to surface finish (76.42% contribution), whereas circularity is dominated by interaction effects such as insert shape–feed rate interaction (31.44% contribution).
The Hilbert space of conditional clauses
Authors: Francis Charles
Published: May 2015

In the absence of a satisfactory interpretation of quantum theory, physical law lacks physical basis. This paper reviews the orthodox, or Dirac–von Neumann interpretation, and makes explicit that Hilbert space describes propositions about measurement results. Kets are defined as conditional clauses referring to measurements in a formal language. It is seen that these clauses are elements of a Hilbert space, such that addition is logical disjunction, the dual space consists of consequent clauses, and the inner product is a set of statements in the subjunctive mood. The probability interpretation gives truth values for corresponding future tense statements when the initial state is actually prepared and the final state is to be measured. The mathematical structure of quantum mechanics is formulated in terms of discrete measurement results at finite level of accuracy and does not depend on an assumption of a substantive, or background, space–time continuum. A continuum of kets, ∣x〉 for x ∈ ℝ3, is constructed from linear combinations of kets in a finite basis. The inner product can be expressed either as a finite sum or as an integral. Discrete position functions are uniquely embedded into smooth wave functions in such a way that differential operators are defined. It is shown that the choice of basis has no effect on underlying physics (quantum covariance). The Dirac delta has a representation as a smooth function. Operators do not in general have an integral form. The Schrödinger equation is shown from the requirements of the probability interpretation. It is remarked that a formal construction of quantum electrodynamics (qed) avoiding divergence problems has been completed using finite dimensional Hilbert space. I conclude that quantum mechanics makes statements about the world with clear physical meaning, such that space is emergent from particle interactions and has no fundamental role.
Finding the Quickest Straight-Line Trajectory for a Three-Wheeled Omnidirectional Robot under Input Voltage Constraints
Authors: Kim Ki Bum , Kim Yong-Hyuk , Yoon Yourim
Published: May 2015

We provide an analytical solution to the problem of generating the quickest straight-line trajectory for a three-wheeled omnidirectional mobile robot, under the practical constraint of limited voltage. Applying the maximum principle to the geometric properties of the input constraints, we find that an optimal input vector of motor voltages has at least one extreme value when the orientation of the robot is fixed and two extreme values when rotation is allowed. We can find an explicit representation of the optimal vector for a motion under fixed orientation. We derive several properties of quickest straight-line trajectories and verify them through simulation. We show that the quickest trajectory when rotation is allowed is always faster than the quickest with fixed orientation.
The Cellular Differential Evolution Based on Chaotic Local Search
Authors: Ding Qingfeng , Zheng Guoxin
Published: May 2015

To avoid immature convergence and tune the selection pressure in the differential evolution (DE) algorithm, a new differential evolution algorithm based on cellular automata and chaotic local search (CLS) or ccDE is proposed. To balance the exploration and exploitation tradeoff of differential evolution, the interaction among individuals is limited in cellular neighbors instead of controlling parameters in the canonical DE. To improve the optimizing performance of DE, the CLS helps by exploring a large region to avoid immature convergence in the early evolutionary stage and exploiting a small region to refine the final solutions in the later evolutionary stage. What is more, to improve the convergence characteristics and maintain the population diversity, the binomial crossover operator in the canonical DE may be instead by the orthogonal crossover operator without crossover rate. The performance of ccDE is widely evaluated on a set of 14 bound constrained numerical optimization problems compared with the canonical DE and several DE variants. The simulation results show that ccDE has better performances in terms of convergence rate and solution accuracy than other optimizers.
Applying an Open-Source Segmentation Algorithm to Different OCT Devices in Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Healthy Controls: Implications for Clinical Trials
Authors: Bhargava Pavan , Lang Andrew , Al-Louzi Omar , Carass Aaron , Prince Jerry , Calabresi Peter A. , Saidha Shiv
Published: May 2015

Background. The lack of segmentation algorithms operative across optical coherence tomography (OCT) platforms hinders utility of retinal layer measures in MS trials.Objective. To determine cross-sectional and longitudinal agreement of retinal layer thicknesses derived from an open-source, fully-automated, segmentation algorithm, applied to two spectral-domain OCT devices.Methods. Cirrus HD-OCT and Spectralis OCT macular scans from 68 MS patients and 22 healthy controls were segmented. A longitudinal cohort comprising 51 subjects (mean follow-up: 1.4 ± 0.9 years) was also examined. Bland-Altman analyses and interscanner agreement indices were utilized to assess agreement between scanners.Results. Low mean differences (−2.16 to 0.26 μm) and narrow limits of agreement (LOA) were noted for ganglion cell and inner and outer nuclear layer thicknesses cross-sectionally. Longitudinally we found low mean differences (−0.195 to 0.21 μm) for changes in all layers, with wider LOA. Comparisons of rate of change in layer thicknesses over time revealed consistent results between the platforms.Conclusions. Retinal thickness measures for the majority of the retinal layers agree well cross-sectionally and longitudinally between the two scanners at the cohort level, with greater variability at the individual level. This open-source segmentation algorithm enables combining data from different OCT platforms, broadening utilization of OCT as an outcome measure in MS trials.
Role ofTLR4  rs4986790A>G and rs4986791C>T Polymorphisms in the Risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Ao Ran , Wang Ying , Zhnag Dao-Rong , Du Ya-Qi
Published: May 2015

Objective. The present meta-analysis investigated the contribution ofTLR4rs4986790A>G and rs4986791C>T genetic polymorphisms in increasing the risk of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).Methods. Databases were searched using a combination of keywords related toTLR4and IBD. Relevant studies were selected based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of the data extracted from the selected studies was performed using CMA 2.0 statistical analysis software.Results. Out of the 70 studies retrieved by database search, only 13 studies were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis and these 13 studies contained a total number of 4409 IBD patients and 5693 healthy controls. The meta-analysis results demonstrated thatTLR4rs4986790A>G polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of IBD (allele model: OR = 1.268, 95% CI = 1.124~1.431, andP<0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.240, 95% CI = 1.090~1.409, andP=0.001). Similarly, TLR4 rs4986791C>T polymorphism also conferred an increased risk of IBD (allele model: OR = 1.259, 95% CI = 1.092~1.453, andP=0.002; dominant model: OR = 1.246, 95% CI = 1.072~1.447, andP=0.004).Conclusion. Our meta-analysis results demonstrate thatTLR4rs4986790A>G and rs4986791C>T genetic polymorphisms are associated with the etiopathogenesis of IBD.
Predictive Potential of Twenty-Two Biochemical Biomarkers for Coronary Artery Disease in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Pereira Edimar Cristiano , Bertolami Marcelo Chiara , Faludi André Arpad , Monte Osmar , Xavier Hermes Toros , Pereira Tiago Veiga , Abdalla Dulcineia Saes Parra
Published: May 2015

We investigated the potential of a panel of 22 biomarkers to predict the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) patients. The study enrolled 96 DM2 patients with (n= 75) and without (n= 21) evidence of CAD. We assessed a biochemical profile that included 22 biomarkers: total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, LDL/HDL, triglycerides, glucose, glycated hemoglobin, fructosamine, homocysteine, cysteine, methionine, reduced glutathione, oxidized glutathione, reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione, L-arginine, asymmetric dimethyl-L-arginine, symmetric dimethyl-L-arginine, asymmetric dimethyl-L-arginine/L-arginine, nitrate plus nitrite, S-nitrosothiols, nitrotyrosine, and n-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase. Prediction models were built using logistic regression models. We found that eight biomarkers (methionine, nitratate plus nitrite, n-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase, BMI, LDL, HDL, reduced glutathione, and L-arginine/asymmetric dimethyl-L-arginine) along with gender and BMI were significantly associated with the odds of CAD in DM2. These preliminary findings support the notion that emerging biochemical markers might be used for CAD prediction in patients with DM2. Our findings warrant further investigation with large, well-designed studies.
The Role of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound in Selection Indication and Improveing Diagnosis for Transthoracic Biopsy in Peripheral Pulmonary and Mediastinal Lesions
Authors: Wang Song , Yang Wei , Zhang Hui , Xu Qian , Yan Kun
Published: May 2015

Objective. To investigate the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in transthoracic biopsy of peripheral lung and mediastinal lesions.Methods. Of 142 patients, 82 patients received CEUS before biopsy and were defined as CEUS group. The remaining 60 patients only underwent conventional ultrasound (US) before biopsy and were served as US group. The information of CEUS was used for selecting indication and instructing biopsy. The imaging features, number of punctures, diagnostic successful rate, and complication rate between the two groups were compared.Results. Necrosis was demonstrated in 43.9% of the lesions in CEUS group and in 6.7% of US group (P<0.001). Detection rate of lesion hidden in pulmonary atelectasis in CEUS group was 13.4%, which was statistically higher than 1.7% of US group (P=0.013). The diagnostic success rate was 96.3% for CEUS group and 80% for US group, respectively (P=0.002). The average number of punctures was2.5±0.7and2.6±0.6, respectively. There was no significant difference in complications between CEUS group and US group.Conclusions. CEUS could play an important role in selecting proper indication and improving diagnostic accuracy rate of lung biopsy.