bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Diametral Acoustic Modes in a Model of a Steam Control Gate Valve
Authors: Barannyk Oleksandr , Oshkai Peter
Published: March 2014

The objective of the present study is to provide an insight into mechanism of coupling between turbulent pipe flow and partially trapped diametral acoustic modes associated with a shallow cavity formed by the seat of a steam control gate valve. First, the effects of the internal pipe geometry immediately upstream and downstream of the shallow cavity on the characteristics of partially trapped diametral acoustic modes were investigated. The mode shapes were calculated numerically by solving a Helmholtz equation in a three-dimensional domain corresponding to the internal geometry of the pipe and the cavity. Second, the set of experiments were performed using a scaled model of a gate valve mounted in a pipeline that contained converging–diverging sections in the vicinity of the valve. Acoustic pressure measurements at three azimuthal locations at the floor of the cavity were performed for a range of geometries of the converging–diverging section and inflow velocities. The experimentally obtained pressure data were then used to scale the amplitude of the pressure in the numerical simulations. The present results are in good agreement with the results reported in earlier studies for an axisymmetric cavity mounted in a pipe with a uniform cross-section. The resonant response of the system corresponded to the second diametral mode of the cavity. Excitation of the dominant acoustic mode was accompanied by pressure oscillations corresponding to other acoustic modes. As the angle of the converging–diverging section of the main pipeline in the vicinity of the cavity increased, the trapped behavior of the acoustic diametral modes diminished, and additional antinodes of the acoustic pressure wave were observed in the main pipeline.
Running World Cross-Country Championships: A Unique Model for Pacing
Authors: Esteve-Lanao Jonathan , Larumbe-Zabala Eneko , Dabab Anouar , Alcocer-Gamboa Alberto , Ahumada Facundo
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to describe the pacing distribution during 6 editions of the world cross-country championships.

Methods:

Data from the 768 male runners participating from 2007 to 2013 were considered for this study. Blocks of 10 participants according to final position (eg, 1st to 10th, 11 to 20th, etc) were considered.

Results:

Taking data from all editions together, the effect of years was found to be significant (F5,266 = 3078.69, P < .001, ω2 = 0.31), as well as the effect of blocks of runners by final position (F4,266 = 957.62, P < .001, ω2 = 0.08). A significant general decrease in speed by lap was also found (F5,1330 = 2344.02, P < .001, ω2 = 0.29). Post hoc analyses were conducted for every edition where several pacing patterns were found. All correlations between the lap times and the total time were significant. However, each lap might show different predicting capacity over the individual outcome.

Discussion:

Top athletes seem to display different strategies, which allow them to sustain an optimal speed and/or kick as needed during the critical moments and succeed. After the first group (block) of runners, subsequent blocks always displayed a positive pacing pattern (fast to slow speed). Consequently, a much more stable pacing pattern should be considered to maximize final position.

Conclusions:

Top-10 finishers in the world cross-country championships tend to display a more even pace than the rest of the finishers, whose general behavior shows a positive (fast-to-slow) pattern.
Effect of Whole-Body Periodic Acceleration on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage after Eccentric Exercise
Authors: Serravite Daniel H. , Perry Arlette , Jacobs Kevin A. , Adams Jose A. , Harriell Kysha , Signorile Joseph F.
Published: March 2014

Purpose:

To examine the effects of whole-body periodic acceleration (pGz) on exercise-induced-muscle-damage (EIMD) -related symptoms induced by unaccustomed eccentric arm exercise.

Methods:

Seventeen active young men (23.4 ± 4.6 y) made 6 visits to the research facility over a 2-wk period. On day 1, subjects performed a 1-repetition-maximum (1RM) elbowflexion test and were randomly assigned to the pGz (n = 8) or control group (n = 9). Criterion measurements were taken on day 2, before and immediately after performance of the eccentric-exercise protocol (10 sets, 10 repetitions using 120% 1RM) and after the recovery period. During subsequent sessions (24, 48, 72, and 96 h) these data were collected before pGz or passive recovery. Measurements included isometric strength (maximal voluntary contraction [MVC]), blood markers (creatine kinase, myoglobin, IL-6, TNF-α, TBARS, PGF2α, protein carbonyls, uric acid, and nitrites), soreness, pain, circumference, and range of motion (ROM).

Results:

Significantly higher MVC values were seen for pGz throughout the recovery period. Within-group differences were seen in myoglobin, IL-6, IL-10, protein carbonyls, soreness, pain, circumference, and ROM showing small negative responses and rapid recovery for the pGz condition.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that pGz can be an effective tool for the reduction of EIMD and may contribute to the training-adaptation cycle by speeding up the recovery of the body due to its performance-loss-lessening effect.
Vaccine-Induced Env V1-V2 IgG3 Correlates with Lower HIV-1 Infection Risk and Declines Soon After Vaccination
Authors: Yates Nicole L. , Liao Hua-Xin , Fong Youyi , deCamp Allan , Vandergrift Nathan A. , Williams William T. , Alam S. Munir , Ferrari Guido , Yang Zhi-yong , Seaton Kelly E. , Berman Phillip W. , Alpert Michael D. , Evans David T. , O’Connell Robert J. , Francis Donald , Sinangil Faruk , Lee Carter , Nitayaphan Sorachai , Rerks-Ngarm Supachai , Kaewkungwal Jaranit , Pitisuttithum Punnee , Tartaglia James , Pinter Abraham , Zolla-Pazner Susan , Gilbert Peter B. , Nabel Gary J. , Michael Nelson L. , Kim Jerome H. , Montefiori David C. , Haynes Barton F. , Tomaras Georgia D.
Published: March 2014

A V1-V2 IgG3 response to HIV correlates with a decreased risk of HIV-1 infection and is one vaccine-induced humoral response that is higher in a clinical trial showing HIV-1 vaccine efficacy compared to a trial showing nonefficacy.
Polyfunctional Fc-Effector Profiles Mediated by IgG Subclass Selection Distinguish RV144 and VAX003 Vaccines
Authors: Chung Amy W. , Ghebremichael Musie , Robinson Hannah , Brown Eric , Choi Ickwon , Lane Sophie , Dugast Anne-Sophie , Schoen Matthew K. , Rolland Morgane , Suscovich Todd J. , Mahan Alison E. , Liao Larry , Streeck Hendrik , Andrews Charla , Rerks-Ngarm Supachai , Nitayaphan Sorachai , de Souza Mark S. , Kaewkungwal Jaranit , Pitisuttithum Punnee , Francis Donald , Michael Nelson L. , Kim Jerome H. , Bailey-Kellogg Chris , Ackerman Margaret E. , Alter Galit
Published: March 2014

RV144 vaccination induced polyfunctional antibody Fc-effector responses, whereas VAX003 vaccination increased inhibitory IgG4 antibodies.
Author Response to Comment on “Power of Rare Diseases: Found in Translation”
Authors: Fishman Mark C.
Published: March 2014

The study of rare diseases in both academic and industry settings yields new knowledge about human pathophysiology and ultimately helps patients.
Genetic Basis for Variations in the Effect of Physical Activity on Cardiometabolic Risk
Authors: Bytautiene Egle
Published: March 2014

Negative effects of
PPARA
H-23 haplotype on individual cardiometabolic risk are attenuated by physical activity.
High Steaks for Cancer and Aging
Authors: Gregg Christopher
Published: March 2014

A new study reveals that protein intake influences cancer risk, diabetes, and mortality during aging.
Knocking Out HIV Infection?
Authors: Sheth Anandi N.
Published: March 2014

Infusion of HIV-infected patients’ own immune cells after genetic alteration was safe and made the cells more resistant to HIV infection.
Impact of Staphylococcus aureus on Pathogenesis in Polymicrobial Infections
Authors: Nair Nisha , Biswas Raja , Götz Friedrich , Biswas Lalitha
Published: March 2014

Polymicrobial infections involvingStaphylococcus aureusexhibit enhanced disease severity and morbidity. We reviewed the nature of polymicrobial interactions betweenS. aureusand other bacterial, fungal, and viral cocolonizers. Microbes that were frequently recovered from the infection site withS. aureusareHaemophilus influenzae,Enterococcus faecalis,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Streptococcus pneumoniae,Corynebacteriumsp.,Lactobacillussp.,Candida albicans, and influenza virus. Detailed analyses of severalin vitroandin vivoobservations demonstrate thatS. aureusexhibits cooperative relations withC. albicans,E. faecalis,H. influenzae, and influenza virus and competitive relations withP. aeruginosa,Streptococcus pneumoniae,Lactobacillussp., andCorynebacteriumsp. Interactions of both types influence changes inS. aureusthat alter its characteristics in terms of colony formation, protein expression, pathogenicity, and antibiotic susceptibility.
Type I Interferon Signaling Regulates Activation of the Absent in Melanoma 2 Inflammasome during Streptococcus pneumoniae Infection
Authors: Fang Rendong , Hara Hideki , Sakai Shunsuke , Hernandez-Cuellar Eduardo , Mitsuyama Masao , Kawamura Ikuo , Tsuchiya Kohsuke
Published: March 2014

Streptococcus pneumoniae, a Gram-positive bacterial pathogen, causes pneumonia, meningitis, and septicemia. Innate immune responses are critical for the control and pathology of pneumococcal infections. It has been demonstrated thatS. pneumoniaeinduces the production of type I interferons (IFNs) by host cells and that type I IFNs regulate resistance and chemokine responses toS. pneumoniaeinfection in an autocrine/paracrine manner. In this study, we examined the effects of type I IFNs on macrophage proinflammatory cytokine production in response toS. pneumoniae. The production of interleukin-18 (IL-18), but not other cytokines tested, was significantly decreased by the absence or blockade of the IFN-α/β receptor, suggesting that type I IFN signaling is necessary for IL-18 production. Type I IFN signaling was also required forS. pneumoniae-induced activation of caspase-1, a cysteine protease that plays a central role in maturation and secretion of IL-18. Earlier studies proposed that the AIM2 and NLRP3 inflammasomes mediate caspase-1 activation in response toS. pneumoniae. From our results, the AIM2 inflammasome rather than the NLRP3 inflammasome seemed to require type I IFN signaling for its optimal activation. Consistently, AIM2, but not NLRP3, was upregulated inS. pneumoniae-infected macrophages in a manner dependent on the IFN-α/β receptor. Furthermore, type I IFN signaling was found to contribute to IL-18 production in pneumococcal pneumoniain vivo. Taken together, these results suggest that type I IFNs regulateS. pneumoniae-induced activation of the AIM2 inflammasome by upregulating AIM2 expression. This study revealed a novel role for type I IFNs in innate responses toS. pneumoniae.
Helminth-Induced Interleukin-4 Abrogates Invariant Natural Killer T Cell Activation-Associated Clearance of Bacterial Infection
Authors: Hsieh Yi-Ju , Fu Chi-Ling , Hsieh Michael H.
Published: March 2014

Helminth infections affect 1 billion people worldwide and render these individuals susceptible to bacterial coinfection through incompletely understood mechanisms. This includes urinary tract coinfection by bacteria andSchistosoma haematobiumworms, the etiologic agent of urogenital schistosomiasis. To study the mechanisms ofS. haematobium-bacterial urinary tract coinfections, we combined the first tractable model of urogenital schistosomiasis with an established mouse model of bacterial urinary tract infection (UTI). A single bladder exposure toS. haematobiumeggs triggers interleukin-4 (IL-4) production and makes BALB/c mice susceptible to bacterial UTI when they are otherwise resistant. Ablation of IL-4 receptor alpha (IL-4Rα) signaling restored the baseline resistance of BALB/c mice to bacterial UTI despite prior exposure toS. haematobiumeggs. Interestingly, numbers of NKT cells were decreased in coexposed versus bacterially monoinfected bladders. Given that schistosome-induced, non-natural killer T (NKT) cell leukocyte infiltration may dilute NKT cell numbers in the bladders of coexposed mice without exerting a specific functional effect on these cells, we next examined NKT cell biology on a per-cell basis. Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells from coexposed mice expressed less gamma interferon (IFN-γ) per cell than did those from mice with UTI alone. Moreover, coexposure resulted in lower CD1d expression in bladder antigen-presenting cells (APC) than did bacterial UTI alone in an IL-4Rα-dependent fashion. Finally, coexposed mice were protected from prolonged bacterial infection by administration of α-galactosylceramide, an iNKT cell agonist. Our findings point to a previously unappreciated role for helminth-induced IL-4 in impairment of iNKT cell-mediated clearance of bacterial coexposure.
Type III Secretion Needle Proteins Induce Cell Signaling and Cytokine Secretion via Toll-Like Receptors
Authors: Jessen Danielle L. , Osei-Owusu Patrick , Toosky Melody , Roughead William , Bradley David S. , Nilles Matthew L.
Published: March 2014

Pathogens are recognized by hosts by use of various receptors, including the Toll-like receptor (TLR) and Nod-like receptor (NLR) families. Ligands for these varied receptors, including bacterial products, are identified by the immune system, resulting in development of innate immune responses. Only a couple of components from type III secretion (T3S) systems are known to be recognized by TLR or NLR family members. Known T3S components that are detected by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are (i) flagellin, detected by TLR5 and NLRC4 (Ipaf); and (ii) T3S rod proteins (PrgJ and homologs) and needle proteins (PrgI and homologs), detected by NAIP and the NLRC4 inflammasome. In this report, we characterize the induction of proinflammatory responses through TLRs by the
Yersinia pestis
T3S needle protein, YscF, the
Salmonella enterica
needle proteins PrgI and SsaG, and the
Shigella
needle protein, MxiH. More specifically, we determine that the proinflammatory responses occur through TLR2 and -4. These data support the hypothesis that T3S needles have an unrecognized role in bacterial pathogenesis by modulating immune responses.
Successful weaning from mechanical ventilation in a patient with surfactant protein C deficiency presenting with severe neonatal respiratory distress
Authors: van Hoorn Jeroen , Brouwers Arno , Griese Matthias , Kramer Boris
Published: March 2014

The clinical course and treatment in the first 2.5 years of life of a term-born girl with a severe onset of respiratory symptoms in the neonatal period caused by a p.Cys121Phe/C121F mutation in the gene of surfactant protein C (SFTPC) is described. During the first 9 months of life, she was mechanically ventilated. With methylprednisolone pulse therapy and oral prednisolone, she could eventually gradually be weaned from mechanical ventilation. At the age of 2.5 years, she is in a good clinical condition without any respiratory support and has a normal nutritional status and neurodevelopment. This clinical course with neonatal onset of respiratory insufficiency is remarkable since most patients with SFTPC mutations present with milder respiratory symptoms in the first years of life.
Graves’ disease presenting as unilateral anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy
Authors: Monigari Naresh , Deshpande Anirudda , Nalabothu Murali , Rao Shilpa
Published: March 2014

We report a case of a 28-year-old man who presented with 1-day history of sudden diminution of vision in the right eye. Examination showed unilateral exophthalmos with restricted eyeball movement on upward gaze in the right eye. MRI of the orbit showed no evidence of compression of the optic nerve on the right side. Visual-evoked potential showed prolonged P100 in the right eye. Fundus examination revealed swollen optic disc and para papillary nerve fibre layer splinter haemorrhages with corresponding altitudinal field defect on perimetry suggestive of anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy.
The Sleep Condition Indicator: a clinical screening tool to evaluate insomnia disorder
Authors: Espie Colin A , Kyle Simon D , Hames Peter , Gardani Maria , Fleming Leanne , Cape John
Published: March 2014

Objective

Describe the development and psychometric validation of a brief scale (the Sleep Condition Indicator (SCI)) to evaluate insomnia disorder in everyday clinical practice.

Design

The SCI was evaluated across five study samples. Content validity, internal consistency and concurrent validity were investigated.

Participants

30 941 individuals (71% female) completed the SCI along with other descriptive demographic and clinical information.

Setting

Data acquired on dedicated websites.

Results

The eight-item SCI (concerns about getting to sleep, remaining asleep, sleep quality, daytime personal functioning, daytime performance, duration of sleep problem, nights per week having a sleep problem and extent troubled by poor sleep) had robust internal consistency (α≥0.86) and showed convergent validity with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Insomnia Severity Index. A two-item short-form (SCI-02: nights per week having a sleep problem, extent troubled by poor sleep), derived using linear regression modelling, correlated strongly with the SCI total score (r=0.90).

Conclusions

The SCI has potential as a clinical screening tool for appraising insomnia symptoms against Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria.
Evolution of extended use of the combined oral contraceptive pill
Authors: Panicker Sabeena , Mann Sue , Shawe Jill , Stephenson Judith
Published: March 2014

Background

Extended use of the combined oral contraceptive pill (COC), defined as taking active pills for at least 28 days, has been used in order to avoid bleeding at important times and to treat gynaecological conditions such as endometriosis. We examined the main issues involved in extended use of the COC and how it has evolved from being one of medicine's best-kept secrets to becoming more widely accepted by women and the medical community.

Study design

Literature review, using Medline, Embase, Pubmed, CINHAL Plus, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and the Ovid database for all relevant clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, literature reviews, scientific papers and individual opinions between 1950 and October 2013.

Results

Accumulating evidence supports various forms of extended pill use as suitable alternatives to the standard (21/7) regimen. In terms of user preference, much hinges on whether women wish to reduce the frequency or duration of scheduled bleeding on the combined pill. Available data on the safety of extended pill regimens do not give cause for concern, but longer term data should be collected.

Conclusions

Information for women considering extended COC regimens should keep pace with research findings to ensure that women and clinicians are better informed about the choices available.
Compressive strength of soils amended with a bacterial succinoglycan: effects of soluble salts and organic matter
Authors: Ringelberg D.B. , Cole D.M. , Foley K.L. , Ruidaz-Santiago C.M. , Reynolds C.M.
Published: March 2014

The ability to stabilize soils in a cost effective and efficient manner has utility in both civil and military applications. This study examines the ability of a bacterial succinoglycan to bind and strengthen the silt fractions of three geochemically different surface soils. Small-scale specimen preparation and uniaxial compression test methods were developed to observe effects of biopolymer concentration and silt surface condition on specimen stress–strain response. Results indicate that the biopolymer was effective at strengthening all three natural silts and when applied at concentrations of 1–15 mg·mL−1, the increase in strength was linear. Silt surface condition was then modified by sequential removal of soluble salts and organic matter. For two of the silts, the removal of salts and organic matter had significant and cumulative negative effects on specimen compressive strength, deformation at peak stress, time to failure, and absorbed strain energy at failure. For a silt characterized by a high cation exchange capacity, high pH, and low aggregate percentage, the removal of organic matter did not reduce compressive strength beyond the level associated with the removal of soluble salts. Results from this study indicate that surface modification can significantly affect the compressive strength of silt materials and identified aggregate content as a principal determinant.
Behavioural response of larval sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in a laboratory environment to potential damage-released chemical alarm cues
Authors: Perrault K. , Imre I. , Brown G.E.
Published: March 2014

Sea lampreys (Petromyzon marinus L., 1758) invaded the Great Lakes early in the 20th century and have caused economic and ecological damage to native fish species. The integrated sea lamprey control program involves low-head barrier dams, lampricides, and trapping. The search for low cost and less toxic alternatives to lampricides could involve the use of repellents in the form of chemical alarm cues. The objective of this study was to determine whether larval sea lamprey showed a behavioural response when exposed to damage-released chemical alarm cues by increasing their swimming time, rate of direction changes, or rate of escape attempts in an artificial stream channel experiment. Larval sea lampreys were exposed to conspecific larval sea lamprey extract, heterospecific swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii Heckel, 1848) extract, or a distilled water control. The larvae increased their rate of escape attempts after exposure to both swordtail and larval lamprey extracts and their rate of direction changes after exposure to sea lamprey extract. However, larvae did not increase their swimming time in response to any experimental stimuli. This is the first study to suggest that larval sea lamprey respond to potential chemosensory risk assessment cues.
Eight-Year Survival of AIDS Patients Treated with Chinese Herbal Medicine
Authors: Zhao Hai-Lu , Sun Chuan-Zheng , Jiang Wei-Ping , Dai Zhi-Kai , Shi Wu-Xiang , Yang Ke-Ke , Mu Xue-Jing , Zhang Xiao-Xi , Sui Yi
Published: March 2014

Treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) currently relies on the use of antiretroviral drugs. Little is known about Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) outcomes in patients living with AIDS. We conducted a cohort study to investigate long-term survival among CHM-treated AIDS patients. Patients were poor farmers who contracted HIV-1 infection when selling blood in the 1990s. Symptoms of AIDS included recurring respiratory tract infections with a clinical diagnosis of pneumonia, swollen lymph nodes and weight loss. 385 patients with AIDS were included and 165 of them used a 16-herb formula for 14 days to 9 months. The eight-year survival rate was 87% for the CHM users and 34% for the non-users (increased survival probability for CHM user, 9.6; 95% CI = 6.0–15.4; p < 0.0001). Survival probability further increased 14.6-fold (95% CI = 8.2–26.1), when excluding the users who received CHM for less than three months. Zero deaths were found in patients who used CHM for six to nine months. All the survivors regained their body weight and none of them experienced a relapse of AIDS or any severe adverse events. After the CHM treatment for an average of 3.6 months, the plasma HIV load was 74.7% lower (paired t-test, p = 0.151) and the number of blood CD4+ lymphocytes increased from 253 to 314 (paired t-test, p = 0.021). Without life-long medication, CHM may be beneficial for long-term survival of AIDS patients.
Potential Antineoplastic Effects of Aloe-emodin: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chen Ruie , Zhang Jinming , Hu Yangyang , Wang Shengpeng , Chen Meiwan , Wang Yitao
Published: March 2014

Aloe-emodin (AE), a bioactive anthraquinone derived from both Aloe vera and Rheum officinale, has recently been demonstrated to have various pharmacological activities. With the widespread popularity of natural products, such as antineoplastic drugs, AE has attracted much attention due to its remarkable antineoplastic activity on multiple tumor cells involving multi-channel mechanisms, including the disruption of cell cycle, induction of apoptosis, anti-metastasis, antiangiogenic, and strengthening of immune function. Experimental data have revealed AE as a potentially potent anti-cancer candidate. Despite this, the pharmaceutical application of AE is still in a fledging period as most research has concentrated on the elucidation of the molecular mechanism of action of existing treatments, rather than the development of novel formulations. Therefore, the present review summarizes the potential toxicity, molecular mechanism, pharmacokinetic characteristics, and pharmaceutical development of AE as an antineoplastic agent. This is based on its physicochemical properties, in an attempt to encourage further research on AE as a potential anti-cancer agent.
Puerarin Attenuates Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Lu Qiong , Xiang Da-Xiong , Yuan Hai-Yan , Xiao Yiwen , Yuan Ling-Qing , Li Hua-Bing
Published: March 2014

Several studies demonstrate that estradiol can prevent arterial calcification. However, little is known regarding the effect of puerarin, a phytoestrogen extracted from Radix Puerariae, on arterial calcification. The aim of the present study was to determine whether puerarin reduced osteoblastic differentiation of calcifying vascular smooth muscle cells (CVSMCs). The CVSMCs were isolated from mice aorta and treated with different concentrations of puerarin. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, osteocalcin secretion and Runx2 expression were determined. To examine whether estrogen receptors (ERs) PI3K and Akt play a role in this effect, ICI182789, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, LY294002, or the Akt inhibitor, 1L-6-hydroxymethyl-chiro-inositol 2-(R)-2-O-methyl-3-O-octadecylcarbonate (HIMO) was used. Our results showed puerarin could inhibit ALP activity, osteocalcin secretion and Runx2 expression in CVSMCs. Puerarin could induce the activation of Akt. Furthermore, pretreatment of ICI182780, LY294002, HIMO could abolish the effect of puerarin on ALP activity in CVSMCs. Our experiment demonstrated that puerain could attenuate the osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs through the ER/PI3K-Akt signal pathway.
Effect ofAjuga bracteosaon Systemic T-Cell Immunity in Balb/C Mice: Dual Th1/Th2 Immunostimulatory Effects
Authors: Nisar Albeena , Akhtar Nayeema , Hassan Asma , Banday Tabish , Wani Bilal , Zargar Mohammed Afzal
Published: March 2014

Ajuga bracteosa (AB) has been widely used in folk medicine in Asian countries against gout, hepatitis, pneumonia, rheumatism, and various neuro inflammatory disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible immunoregulatory effects of the ethanolic extract of Ajuga bracteosa (ABEE) on systemic Th1/Th2 immunity in SRBC immunized Balb/C mice. Animals were orally administered with graded doses of ABEE from 6.25 mg/kg to 100 mg/kg. Post sub-cutaneous immunization with SRBCs and circulating antibody titers, DTH responses and splenocyte proliferation was monitored as markers of Th2 and Th1 responses. Cyclophosphamide and levamisole were used as controls. Lymphocyte immunophenotying (CD4/CD8 cell counts) and intracellular Th1/Th2 cytokine concentrations were determined using flow cytometry. Treatment with ABEE demonstrated significant biphasic immunostimulation of effector T-helper immunity. ABEE at 50 mg/kg dose resulted in maximal increase in antibody titers, DTH responses and CD4+/CD8+ T-cell percentages indicating maximal activation and proliferation of T and B lymphocytes at this dose. ABEE, at the same dose, also showed maximal up regulation of LPS and CON A stimulated splenocyte proliferation and also maximal up-regulation of both Th1 (IL-2, IFN-γ) and Th2 (IL-4) cytokines which suggest its mixed Th1/Th2 immunostimulatory activity. Comparatively at higher doses (100 mg/kg), significant down regulation of all these effector T-helper (Th) immune responses was observed. The study therefore suggests mixed biphasic immunostimulatory Th1/Th2 activity of ABEE that could support its immunoadjuvant potential.
Holographic shell model: Stack data structure inside black holes?
Authors: Davidson Aharon
Published: March 2014

Rather than tiling the black hole horizon by Planck area patches, we suggest that bits of information inhabit, universally and holographically, the entire black core interior, a bit per a light sheet unit interval of order Planck area difference. The number of distinguishable (tagged by a binary code) configurations, counted within the context of a discrete holographic shell model, is given by the Catalan series. The area entropy formula is recovered, including Cardy's universal logarithmic correction, and the equipartition of mass per degree of freedom is proven. The black hole information storage resembles, in the count procedure, the so-called stack data structure.
RELIABILITY OF THE HAND20 QUESTIONNAIRE: COMPARISON WITH THE 36-ITEM SHORT-FORM HEALTH SURVEY
Authors: Moritomo Hisao , Imaeda Toshihiko , Gotani Hiroyuki , Momose Toshimitsu , Abe Yukio , Oi Hiroyuki , Omokawa Shohei , Sawaizumi Takuya , Nemoto Koichi , The Functional Evaluation Committee
Published: March 2014

Background. Hand20 is an illustrated, self-administered questionnaire comprising 20 short and easy-to-understand questions to assess upper limb disorders. This study aimed to test the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of Hand20.

Methods. Eighty-five patients with three upper limb disorders (51 with trigger finger, 29 with ulnar impaction syndrome, and five with carpal tunnel syndrome) completed Hand20, the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH-JSSH), and the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Reliability was assessed by internal consistency. To test the validity, a factor analysis of Hand20 was performed and the correlation coefficients between Hand20 and DASH-JSSH and those between Hand20 and SF-36 were calculated. Responsiveness was evaluated in 47 patients with trigger finger as the standardized response mean and effect size after treatment.

Results. A Cronbach's α coefficient of 0.967 confirmed the unidimensionality of Hand20. The correlation coefficient between Hand20 and DASH-JSSH was 0.84. The correlations between Hand20 and the SF-36 subscales ranged from -0.236 to -0.596. Moderate correlations were observed for "Role-physical" (r = -0.596) and "Bodily pain" (r = -0.557). The correlation between the Hand20 and "Physical functioning" was weak (r = -0.313). The standardized response mean and effect size of Hand20 was 1.50 and 1.60, respectively.

Conclusions. The Hand20 has evaluation capacities equivalent to those of DASH-JSSH. There was a moderate correlation between Hand20 and SF-36.
THE EFFECT OF ULTRASOUND GUIDED STEROID INJECTION ON PROGRESSION TO SURGERY IN THUMB CMC ARTHRITIS
Authors: McCann P. A. , Wakeley C. J. , Amirfeyz R.
Published: March 2014

Thumb carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) osteoarthritis is a common complaint that produces pain and disability within the hand. This study aims to ascertain whether joint injection with local anaesthetic and steroid is of predicative value in disease progression in thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis.

Forty-three patients were assessed at an average follow up of 24 months following ultrasound-guided injection. Fourteen patients (32%) progressed to surgery, at a mean interval of 8.6 months (range 4–14 months).

There was a statistically significant correlation between those patients who had on-going pain following injection at one week and progression to surgery (p = 0.025) with an odds ratio of 3.14 and positive likelihood ratio of 2.1.

Patients with thumb CMCJ osteoarthritis that does not respond favourably to injection at one week are likely to progress to surgery in the first year after the injection. This work offers a useful tool in predicting disease progression and patient counseling.
EXTERNAL FIXATION OF THE HAND: A SIMPLE APPROACH TO COMMINUTED PROXIMAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT FRACTURES
Authors: Kubitskiy Alexander , Soliman Bishoy A. B. , Dowd Michael B. , Curtin Paul
Published: March 2014

Proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) fractures are a treatment challenge for hand surgeons. Poor treatment options may lead to stiffness, non-union and markedly reduced range of movement (ROM). We describe our experience using the Hoffman-2 micro static external fixation device (Stryker) in a case series of ten patients with closed comminuted intra-articular PIPJ fractures. The use of this device in the management of these fractures has not previously been described. The mean total active motion (TAM) of the injured joint had recovered to 80% of normal at the six-month follow up.
COMPRESSIVE NEUROPATHIES RELATED TO GANGLIONS OF THE WRIST AND HAND
Authors: Jayakumar Prakash , Jayaram Vijay , Nairn David S.
Published: March 2014

Ganglions of the wrist and hand causing compressive neuropathies are rare clinical entities. Compression of the ulnar and median nerves in their respective fibro-osseous tunnels lead to characteristic patterns of motor and/or sensory deficits, which are directly related to the location of the lesion. We present a unique case of a "dumbbell" shaped ganglion invading both Guyon's canal and the carpal tunnel causing a dual compressive neuropathy of the ulnar and median nerve. We discuss the patho-anatomy, clinical assessment, investigation and surgical treatment of this condition.
TRICHILEMMAL CYST OF THE THIRD FINGERTIP: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Melikoglu Cenk , Eren Fikret , Keklik Barış , Aslan Cem , Sutcu Mustafa , Zeynep Tarini Emine
Published: March 2014

Introduction: Trichilemmal cysts (TCs) are common skin lesions that occur in hairy areas. A TC involving a fingertip has not been previously described in the literature. We herein report a case of a TC occupying a fingertip region.

Case presentation: A 43-year-old woman presented with a 1.5 × 1.5 cm nodular lesion on the third fingertip. The lesion was completely excised, and histopathological examination revealed a TC.

Conclusion: TCs may involve atypical locations, such as fingertips, where there are no hair follicles. After surgical excision, a careful histopathological examination should be performed to differentiate TCs from proliferating pilar tumors.
SHIFTING USE OF POLICY INSTRUMENTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS: NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA, 1979–2010
Authors: MAMOUNEY LOUISA
Published: March 2014

It is generally accepted that choice and use of environmental policy instruments has changed over recent decades, however this has rarely been investigated empirically. A quantitative analysis of 505 policy instruments to address environmental problems between 1979–2010 in New South Wales, Australia, was undertaken to explore this further, in a jurisdiction reasonably typical of advanced economies. The data do show a shift in the use of instrument types, with the most common type of policy instrument being regulation. However, there was no trend away from regulation as a way of delivering policy outcomes, but a relative strengthening in the importance of newer policy instrument types such as strategy, education, incentives and schemes, compared with foundation policy types including regulation and land reservation. Foundation policies dominated the earlier years and provided significant structural elements of the policy system, including setting up organisations, assigning roles and responsibilities and prescribing rules. The political party holding government at the time does not drive the selection of policy instruments. The methods in this paper could be applied in other jurisdictions or to other policy areas.
Ferroelectricity and magnetism in Pb(Fe0.5Nb0.5)O3–Pb(Yb0.5Nb0.5)O3–PbTiO3 single crystals
Authors: He Chao , Long Xifa
Published: March 2014

Domain structure, ferroelectric and magnetic properties of [001]-oriented multiferroic single crystals Pb ( Fe 0.5 Nb 0.5) O 3– Pb ( Yb 0.5 Nb 0.5) O 3– PbTiO 3 (PFN–PYN–PT) with various compositions were investigated with the purpose of understanding the ferroelectric and magnetic order. The samples were determined to be rhombohedral phase or coexistence of tetragonal and rhombohedral phases by means of X-ray diffraction analysis and optical study. Furthermore, the domain configuration in tetragonal phase always takes on 90° domain wall. All samples exhibit well-developed saturated hysteresis loop, indicating no substantial increase of conductivity despite the introduction of Fe 3+ ions. But the piezoelectric coefficients were reduced due to the introduction of PFN. In addition, the PFN–PYN–PT single crystals showed paramagnetic behavior, resulting from the – O – Fe 3+– O – Nb / Yb / Ti – O – Fe 3+– O – magnetic interaction. Interestingly, M–H hysteresis loops display a magnetic relaxor behavior.
Viscoelastic properties of kenaf reinforced unsaturated polyester composites
Authors: Osman Ekhlas A. , Mutasher Saad A.
Published: March 2014

In order to quantify the effect of temperature on the mechanical and dynamic properties of kenaf fiber unsaturated polyester composites, formulations containing 10 wt.% to 40 wt.% kenaf fiber were produced and tested at two representative temperatures of 30°C and 50°C. Dynamic mechanical analysis was performed, to obtain the strain and creep compliance for kenaf composites at various styrene concentrations. It is possible to obtain creep curves at different temperature levels which can be shifted along the time axis to generate a single curve known as a master curve. This technique is known as the time–temperature superposition principle. Shift factors conformed to a William–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equation. However, more long term creep data was needed in order to further validate the applicability of time-temperature superposition principle (TTSP) to this material. The primary creep strain model was fitted to 60 min creep data. The resulting equation was then extrapolated to 5.5 days; the creep strain model of power-law was successfully used to predict the long-term creep behavior of natural fiber/thermoset composites.
A single intake of capsiate improves mechanical performance and bioenergetics efficiency in contracting mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Kazuya Yashiro , Tonson Anne , Pecchi Emilie , Dalmasso Christiane , Vilmen Christophe , Fur Yann Le , Bernard Monique , Bendahan David , Giannesini Benoît
Published: March 2014

Capsiate is known to increase whole body oxygen consumption possibly via the activation of uncoupling processes, but its effect at the skeletal muscle level remains poorly documented and conflicting. To clarify this issue, gastrocnemius muscle function and energetics were investigated in mice 2 h after a single intake of either vehicle (control) or purified capsiate (at 10 or 100 mg/kg body wt) through a multidisciplinary approach combining in vivo and in vitro measurements. Mechanical performance and energy pathway fluxes were assessed strictly noninvasively during a standardized electrostimulation-induced exercise, using an original device implementing 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and mitochondrial respiration was evaluated in isolated saponin-permeabilized fibers. Compared with control, both capsiate doses produced quantitatively similar effects at the energy metabolism level, including an about twofold decrease of the mitochondrial respiration sensitivity for ADP. Interestingly, they did not alter either oxidative phosphorylation or uncoupling protein 3 gene expression at rest. During 6 min of maximal repeated isometric contractions, both doses reduced the amount of ATP produced from glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation but increased the relative contribution of oxidative phosphorylation to total energy turnover (+28 and +21% in the 10- and 100-mg groups, respectively). ATP cost of twitch force generation was further reduced in the 10- (−35%) and 100-mg (−45%) groups. Besides, the highest capsiate dose also increased the twitch force-generating capacity. These data present capsiate as a helpful candidate to enhance both muscle performance and oxidative phosphorylation during exercise, which could constitute a nutritional approach for improving health and preventing obesity and associated metabolic disorders.
Metabolic changes associated with the long winter fast dominate the liver proteome in 13-lined ground squirrels
Authors: Hindle Allyson G. , Grabek Katharine R. , Epperson L. Elaine , Karimpour-Fard Anis , Martin Sandra L.
Published: March 2014

Small-bodied hibernators partition the year between active homeothermy and hibernating heterothermy accompanied by fasting. To define molecular events underlying hibernation that are both dependent and independent of fasting, we analyzed the liver proteome among two active and four hibernation states in 13-lined ground squirrels. We also examined fall animals transitioning between fed homeothermy and fasting heterothermy. Significantly enriched pathways differing between activity and hibernation were biased toward metabolic enzymes, concordant with the fuel shifts accompanying fasting physiology. Although metabolic reprogramming to support fasting dominated these data, arousing (rewarming) animals had the most distinct proteome among the hibernation states. Instead of a dominant metabolic enzyme signature, torpor-arousal cycles featured differences in plasma proteins and intracellular membrane traffic and its regulation. Phosphorylated NSFL1C, a membrane regulator, exhibited this torpor-arousal cycle pattern; its role in autophagosome formation may promote utilization of local substrates upon metabolic reactivation in arousal. Fall animals transitioning to hibernation lagged in their proteomic adjustment, indicating that the liver is more responsive than preparatory to the metabolic reprogramming of hibernation. Specifically, torpor use had little impact on the fall liver proteome, consistent with a dominant role of nutritional status. In contrast to our prediction of reprogramming the transition between activity and hibernation by gene expression and then within-hibernation transitions by posttranslational modification (PTM), we found extremely limited evidence of reversible PTMs within torpor-arousal cycles. Rather, acetylation contributed to seasonal differences, being highest in winter (specifically in torpor), consistent with fasting physiology and decreased abundance of the mitochondrial deacetylase, SIRT3.
Tardive Dystonia: Clinical Spectrum and Novel Manifestations
Authors: Davis R. Jeffrey , Cummings Jeffrey L. , Hierholzer Robert W.
Published: March 2014

Tardive dystonia was identified in 25 patients: involvement of the face and neck was most common; truncal and limb dystonia were also observed. There were 3 cases of laryngospasm and 2 of spasmodic dysphonia. The latter has not been previously reported as a manifestation of tardive dystonia. In all cases, movements typical of classic tardive dyskinesia could be demonstrated. This group illustrates the variety of dystonic disorders that may occur in conjunction with tardive dyskinesia.
Kindling: A Model for the Development of Tardive Dyskinesia?
Authors: Glenthøj B. , Hemmingsen R. , Bolwig T. G.
Published: March 2014

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) from long-term neuroleptic treatment may be irreversible; therefore prevention has become a major concern. A controversial issue with regard to the clinical use of neuroleptic drugs is the possible influence on the development of TD of drug holidays. The major characteristics of kindling, theories of TD and the role of multiplicity in the development of TD are described. Some clinical studies point to interruption of neuroleptic therapy being a risk factor for development of irreversible TD. Induction of dyskinesia in non-human primates has been demonstrated after repeated administration of haloperidol. Rodent studies have not been conclusive. Several experimental results link TD with kindling: both conditions involve repeated stimulations, both seem to involve increased receptor responsiveness and in both conditions does depression in GABA transmission in SNR (substantia nigra; pars reticulata) play an important role. It is concluded that the kindling hypothesis is relevant to the investigation of TD.
Body Image Disorders: Comparison between Unilateral Hemisphere Damage and Schizophrenia
Authors: Cutting J.
Published: March 2014

The records of a consecutive series of 100 schizophrenics were examined for any mention of body image disorders. These were present in 45 patients, the most common varieties being anomalous bodily experiences. The pattern of these was then compared with the sorts of body image disorders which occur in patients with left hemisphere lesions and in those with right hemisphere lesions. Schizophrenic body image disorders resembled those seen with right-sided lesions much more than they did those occurring following left-sided damage. This result is discussed in relationship to theories of hemisphere imbalance in schizophrenia.
Alcoholism, Korsakoff’s Syndrome and the Frontal Lobes
Authors: Jacobson R. R.
Published: March 2014

A subset of the diffuse cerebral changes and psychometric deficits found in chronic alcoholics is similar to that seen in the frontal lobe syndrome. Certain features of alcoholic Korsakoff's syndrome (AKS) also point to cortical involvement, and this may have a basis in alcohol neurotoxicity. Twenty-five patients with AKS and 24 non-Korsakoff alcoholic controls were compared using an automated CT brain scan program. In addition to evidence of their diencephalic lesions (wide third ventricles), AKS patients revealed widespread cerebral damage with greater Sylvian and interhemispheric fissure (IHF) size than alcoholics. Korsakoffs were also inferior to alcoholics in performance on a category sorting test, in which non-perseverative error scores correlated significantly with IHF size. The principle of distinguishing between selective memory decline and global intellectual decline (GID) was applied to 38 patients with AKS. Indices were developed for each type of deficit and much variation found in their distributions. The degree of GID correlated significantly with IHF size, showing similar trends with other cortical measures. These results suggest a cortical substrate for the degree of GID and a frontal substrate for category sorting deficits; with a probable basis in alcohol neurotoxicity rather than thiamine deficiency, which is not known to impair cortical structure. A new model is proposed of the pathophysiology of alcoholic brain damage and AKS which includes recent work on neurotransmitter sources and thalamo-frontal connections.
Palinopsia: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Stagno Susan J. , Gates Todd J.
Published: March 2014

The literature on palinopsia (visual perseveration) is reviewed, utilizing case reports of 46 patients who demonstrated this symptom. The most common etiologies for this symptom are space-occupying lesions, cerebral infarct, and seizure activity. The vast majority are due to central nervous system pathology occurring in the posterior (occipital or parieto-occipital) region, often in the right hemisphere. Proposed mechanisms for palinopsia are also discussed.