bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of maximum intraventricular pressure: a three-dimensional fluid–structure interaction model
Authors: Bahraseman Hamidreza Ghasemi , Hassani Kamran , khosravi Arezoo , Navidbakhsh Mahdi , Espino Daniel M , Kazemi-Saleh Davood , Fatourayee Naser
Published: November 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to propose a method to estimate the maximum pressure in the left ventricle (MPLV) for a healthy subject, based on cardiac outputs measured by echo-Doppler (non-invasive) and catheterization (invasive) techniques at rest and during exercise.

Methods

Blood flow through aortic valve was measured by Doppler flow echocardiography. Aortic valve geometry was calculated by echocardiographic imaging. A Fluid–structure Interaction (FSI) simulation was performed, using an Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) mesh. Boundary conditions were defined as pressure loads on ventricular and aortic sides during ejection phase. The FSI simulation was used to determine a numerical relationship between the cardiac output to aortic diastolic and left ventricular pressures. This relationship enabled the prediction of pressure loads from cardiac outputs measured by invasive and non-invasive clinical methods.

Results

Ventricular systolic pressure peak was calculated from cardiac output of Doppler, Fick oximetric and Thermodilution methods leading to a 22%, 18% and 24% increment throughout exercise, respectively. The mean gradients obtained from curves of ventricular systolic pressure based on Doppler, Fick oximetric and Thermodilution methods were 0.48, 0.41 and 0.56 mmHg/heart rate, respectively. Predicted Fick-MPLV differed by 4.7%, Thermodilution-MPLV by 30% and Doppler-MPLV by 12%, when compared to clinical reports.

Conclusions

Preliminary results from one subject show results that are in the range of literature values. The method needs to be validated by further testing, including independent measurements of intraventricular pressure. Since flow depends on the pressure loads, measuring more accurate intraventricular pressures helps to understand the cardiac flow dynamics for better clinical diagnosis. Furthermore, the method is non-invasive, safe, cheap and more practical. As clinical Fick-measured values have been known to be more accurate, our Fick-based prediction could be the most applicable.
EZH2 expression in invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Roh SiGyun , Park Shin Young , Ko Hyoung Suk , Sohn Jang Sihn , Cha Eun Jung
Published: November 2013

Background

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the second most common histologic type of breast cancer, but the prognosis of ILC is still controversial. Enhancer of Zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), is frequently overexpressed in various cancers. This study evaluated the relationship between clinicopathologic characteristics and EZH2 expression.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 54 patients with ILC and selected 49 cases of ILC. Immunohistochemistry for EZH2 was undertaken.

Results

We defined ILC as discohesive cells with a linear or nonlinear growth pattern. No statistically significant difference was found for most variables, including multifocality, menstrual status, body mass index, tumor stage (pT), lymph node stage (pN), estrogen receptor, and progesterone receptor. In contrast, nuclear grade was statistically significant and EZH2 expression was associated with high nuclear grade. In total, 80% of nuclear grade 3 cases had an EZH2 score of 4, and 86% of nuclear grade 1 cases had EZH2 scores of 1 and 2. Our cases had a score of 3 for tubule formation and a score of 1 for mitosis, and so the histologic grading consisted of grades 1 (7 cases) and 2 (42 cases) depending on the nuclear grade.

Conclusion

Although EZH2 could not predict survival in our study, EZH2 expression was associated with a high nuclear grade. Most ILCs have histologic grade 2 with nuclear grade 2 or 3. Therefore, our opinion is that if ILC is diagnosed by separating the classic type and variants and considering both EZH2 expression and nuclear grade, EZH2 overexpression could help and the Nottingham grading system would be more accurate prognostic factor.
Niacin supplementation induces type II to type I muscle fiber transition in skeletal muscle of sheep
Authors: Khan Muckta , Couturier Aline , Kubens Johanna F , Most Erika , Mooren Frank-Christoph , Krüger Karsten , Ringseis Robert , Eder Klaus
Published: November 2013

Background

It was recently shown that niacin supplementation counteracts the obesity-induced muscle fiber transition from oxidative type I to glycolytic type II and increases the number of type I fibers in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker rats. These effects were likely mediated by the induction of key regulators of fiber transition, PPARδ (encoded by PPARD), PGC-1α (encoded by PPARGC1A) and PGC-1β (encoded by PPARGC1B), leading to type II to type I fiber transition and upregulation of genes involved in oxidative metabolism. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether niacin administration also influences fiber distribution and the metabolic phenotype of different muscles [M. longissimus dorsi (LD), M. semimembranosus (SM), M. semitendinosus (ST)] in sheep as a model for ruminants. For this purpose, 16 male, 11 wk old Rhoen sheep were randomly allocated to two groups of 8 sheep each administered either no (control group) or 1 g niacin per day (niacin group) for 4 wk.

Results

After 4 wk, the percentage number of type I fibers in LD, SM and ST muscles was greater in the niacin group, whereas the percentage number of type II fibers was less in niacin group than in the control group (P < 0.05). The mRNA levels of PPARGC1A, PPARGC1B, and PPARD and the relative mRNA levels of genes involved in mitochondrial fatty acid uptake (CPT1B, SLC25A20), tricarboxylic acid cycle (SDHA), mitochondrial respiratory chain (COX5A, COX6A1), and angiogenesis (VEGFA) in LD, SM and ST muscles were greater (P < 0.05) or tended to be greater (P < 0.15) in the niacin group than in the control group.

Conclusions

The study shows that niacin supplementation induces muscle fiber transition from type II to type I, and thereby an oxidative metabolic phenotype of skeletal muscle in sheep as a model for ruminants. The enhanced capacity of skeletal muscle to utilize fatty acids in ruminants might be particularly useful during metabolic states in which fatty acids are excessively mobilized from adipose tissue, such as during the early lactating period in high producing cows.
A comparison of conventional tube and EndoFlex tube for tracheal intubation in patients with a cervical spine immobilisation
Authors: Gaszynska Ewelina , Stankiewicz-Rudnicki Michal , Wieczorek Andrzej , Gaszynski Tomasz
Published: November 2013

Background

The EndoFlex is a new type of tracheal tube with an adjustable distal tip that can be bent without the use of a stylet. The aim of this study was to compare a standard endotracheal tube with the EndoFlex tracheal tube for intubation in patients with simulated cervical spine injury.

Methods

A group of 60 patients without any kind of the cervical spine injury, classified as the ASA physiological scale I or II and qualified for elective surgery procedures were intubated with the use of classical Macintosh laryngoscope, and either a standard endotracheal tube with the intubation stylet in it or EndoFlex tube without stylet. The subjects were randomized into two subgroups. All patients have had the cervical collar placed on their neck for the simulation of intubation procedure in case of the spinal injury.

Results

The intubation procedure was performed by 16 anesthetists with different experience (5-19 yrs). Time of intubation with the use of EndoFlex tube was similar to that with a the use of standard endotracheal tube and intubation stylet: Me (median) 19.5 s [IQR (interquatile range) 18-50] vs. Me 20 s [IQR 17-60] respectively (p = 0.9705). No significant additional maneuvers were necessary during intubation with the use of EndoFlex tube in comparison with standard endotracheal tube (70% vs. 56.6%) (p = 0.4220). Subjective assessment of the usability of both tubes revealed that more anesthesiologists found intubations with the use of EndoFlex more demanding than intubation with conventional tracheal tube and intubation stylet. The assessment of usability: very easy 3.3% vs. 20%, easy 83.4% vs. 56.7%, difficult 10% vs. 20% and very difficult 3.3% vs. 3.3% for standard endotracheal tube with stylet and EndoFlex, respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion we asses, that the EndoFlex tube does not improve intubation success rate, in fact it requires more maneuvers facilitating intubation and was found to be more difficult to use.
Validation and development of a shorter version of the resilience scale RS-11: results from the population-based KORA–age study
Authors: von Eisenhart Rothe Alexander , Zenger Markus , Lacruz Maria Elena , Emeny Rebecca , Baumert Jens , Haefner Sibylle , Ladwig Karl-Heinz
Published: November 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to assess reliability and validity of the Resilience Scale 11 (RS-11) and develop a shorter scale in a population-based study.

Methods

The RS-11 scale was administered to 3942 participants (aged 64 – 94 years) of the KORA-Age study. To test reliability, factor analyses were carried out and internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) was measured. Construct validity was measured by correlating scores with psychological constructs. The criterion for a shorter scale was a minimum internal consistency of .80. Shorter models were compared using confirmatory factor analysis. Sensitivity and specificity of RS-5 to RS-11 was analyzed.

Results

Factor analysis of the RS-11 gave a 1-factor solution. Internal consistency was α = .86. A shorter version of the scale was developed with 5 items, which also gave a 1-factor solution and showed good validity. Internal consistency of this shorter scale: Resilience Scale 5 (RS-5) was α = .80. Sensitivity and specificity of RS-5 compared with RS-11 were .79 and .91 respectively. Both scales correlated significantly in expected directions with related constructs.

Conclusions

The RS-11 and the RS-5 are reliable, consistent and valid instruments to measure the ability of elderly individuals to successfully cope with change and misfortune.
Anthocyanin-rich Aronia melanocarpa extract improves body temperature maintenance in healthy women with a cold constitution
Authors: Sonoda Keisuke , Aoi Wataru , Iwata Tomoaki , Li Yanmei
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Specific anthocyanin-rich dietary factors have been shown to improve metabolic functions associated with thermogenesis in animal studies. Aronia melanocarpa, commonly known as wild chokeberry, contains a high level of anthocyanin that would be expected to maintain body temperature through thermogenesis. We here investigated the effects of Aronia melanocarpa extracts on body temperature and peripheral blood flow in healthy women with a cold constitution.

Methods

A pre/post comparison trial was performed in 11 women with a cold constitution, who were taking Aronia melanocarpa extracts (150 mg/day) for 4 weeks. Physiological and biochemical parameters, along with psychological tests were examined.

Results

The subjects’ body surface temperature was significantly higher in the post-trial than in the pre-trial. In psychological tests, factors related to cold were significantly improved by Aronia intake. On the other hand, peripheral blood flow was not affected by Aronia supplementation. Plasma noradrenalin level was significantly elevated by Aronia intake, and subjects with a higher level of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in the pre-trial showed decreased levels in the post-trial.

Conclusions

These data suggest that dietary Aronia melanocarpa extract improves the maintenance of body temperature in healthy women with a cold constitution, which may be mediated by noradrenalin and oxidative stress levels.
Cancer risk in childhood-onset systemic lupus
Authors: Bernatsky Sasha , Clarke Ann E , Labrecque Jeremy , von Scheven Emily , Schanberg Laura E , Silverman Earl D , Brunner Hermine I , Haines Kathleen A , Cron Randy Q , O’Neil Kathleen M , Oen Kiem , Rosenberg Alan M , Duffy Ciarán M , Joseph Lawrence , Lee Jennifer L , Kale Mruganka , Turnbull Elizabeth M , Ramsey-Goldman Rosalind
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study was to assess cancer incidence in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

We ascertained cancers within SLE registries at 10 pediatric centers. Subjects were linked to cancer registries for the observational interval, spanning 1974 to 2009. The ratio of observed to expected cancers represents the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) or relative cancer risk in childhood-onset SLE, versus the general population.

Results

There were 1020 patients aged <18 at cohort entry. Most (82%) were female and Caucasian; mean age at cohort entry was 12.6 years (standard deviation (SD) = 3.6). Subjects were observed for a total of 7,986 (average 7.8) patient-years. Within this interval, only three invasive cancers were expected. However, 14 invasive cancers occurred with an SIR of 4.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.6 to 7.8. Three hematologic cancers were found (two non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, one leukemia), for an SIR of 5.2 (95% CI 1.1 to 15.2). The SIRs stratified by age group and sex, were similar across these strata. There was a trend for highest cancer occurrence 10 to 19 years after SLE diagnosis.

Conclusions

These results suggest an increased cancer risk in pediatric onset SLE versus the general population. In absolute terms, this represents relatively few events. Of note, risk may be highest only after patients have transferred to adult care.
Evaluation of islets derived from human fetal pancreatic progenitor cells in diabetes treatment
Authors: Zhang Wen-Jian , Xu Shi-Qing , Cai Han-Qing , Men Xiu-Li , Wang Zai , Lin Hua , Chen Li , Jiang Yong-Wei , Liu Hong-Lin , Li Cheng-Hui , Sui Wei-Guo , Deng Hong-Kui , Lou Jin-Ning
Published: November 2013

Introduction

With the shortage of donor organs for islet transplantation, insulin-producing cells have been generated from different types of stem cell. Human fetal pancreatic stem cells have a better self-renewal capacity than adult stem cells and can readily differentiate into pancreatic endocrine cells, making them a potential source for islets in diabetes treatment. In the present study, the functions of pancreatic islets derived from human fetal pancreatic progenitor cells were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Human pancreatic progenitor cells isolated from the fetal pancreas were expanded and differentiated into islet endocrine cells in culture. Markers for endocrine and exocrine functions as well as those for alpha and beta cells were analyzed by immunofluorescent staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To evaluate the functions of these islets in vivo, the islet-like structures were transplanted into renal capsules of diabetic nude mice. Immunohistochemical staining for human C-peptide and human mitochondrion antigen was applied to confirm the human origin and the survival of grafted islets.

Results

Human fetal pancreatic progenitor cells were able to expand in medium containing basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and leukemia inhibitor factor (LIF), and to differentiate into pancreatic endocrine cells with high efficiency upon the actions of glucagon-like peptide-1 and activin-A. The differentiated cells expressed insulin, glucagon, glucose transporter-1 (GLUT1), GLUT2 and voltage-dependent calcium channel (VDCC), and were able to aggregate into islet-like structures containing alpha and beta cells upon suspension. These structures expressed and released a higher level of insulin than adhesion cultured cells, and helped to maintain normoglycemia in diabetic nude mice after transplantation.

Conclusions

Human fetal pancreatic progenitor cells have good capacity for generating insulin producing cells and provide a promising potential source for diabetes treatment.
Serotonin Acts Through 5-HT1 and 5-HT2 Receptors to Exert Biphasic Actions on GnRH Neuron Excitability in the Mouse
Authors: Bhattarai Janardhan P. , Roa Juan , Herbison Allan E. , Han Seong Kyu
Published: November 2013

The effect of serotonin (5-HT) on the electrical excitability of GnRH neurons was examined using gramicidin perforated-patch electrophysiology in transgenic GnRH-green fluorescent protein mice. In diestrous female, the predominant effect of 5-HT was inhibition (70%) with 50% of these cells also exhibiting a late-onset excitation. Responses were dose dependent (EC50 = 1.2μM) and persisted in the presence of amino acid receptor antagonists and tetrodotoxin, indicating a predominant postsynaptic action of 5-HT. Studies in neonatal, juvenile, peripubertal, and adult mice revealed that 5-HT exerted less potent responses from GnRH neurons with advancing postnatal age in both sexes. In adult male mice, 5-HT exerted less potent hyperpolarizing responses with more excitations compared with females. In addition, adult proestrous female GnRH neurons exhibited reduced inhibition and a complete absence of biphasic hyperpolarization-excitation responses. Studies using 5-HT receptor antagonists demonstrated that the activation of 5-HT1A receptors mediated the inhibitory responses, whereas the excitation was mediated by the activation of 5-HT2A receptors. The 5-HT-mediated hyperpolarization involved both potassium channels and adenylate cyclase activation, whereas the 5-HT excitation was dependent on protein kinase C. The effects of exogenous 5-HT were replicated using fluoxetine, which enhances endogenous 5-HT levels. These studies demonstrate that 5-HT exerts a biphasic action on most GnRH neurons whereby a fast 5HT1A-mediated inhibition occurs alongside a slow 5-HT2A excitation. The balance of 5-HT-evoked inhibition vs excitation is developmentally regulated, sexually differentiated, and variable across the estrous cycle and may play a role in regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis throughout postnatal development.
EP2 Receptor Activates Dual G Protein Signaling Pathways that Mediate Contrasting Proinflammatory and Relaxatory Responses in Term Pregnant Human Myometrium
Authors: Kandola Mandeep K. , Sykes Lynne , Lee Yun S. , Johnson Mark R. , Hanyaloglu Aylin C. , Bennett Phillip R.
Published: November 2013

Prostaglandin (PG) E2 (PGE2) plays a central role in the regulation of smooth muscle contractions. Classically, PGE2 stimulates contractions via EP1 and EP3 receptors, whereas EP2 and EP4 maintain quiescence. Labor involves a change from myometrial quiescence to contractions with a shift from anti- to proinflammatory pathways. EP2, a Gαs-coupled receptor, is known to mediate its actions via cAMP signaling. However, we have recently shown that EP2 also activates the proinflammatory PG G/H synthase-2 (PGHS-2). Here, we identify the mechanism underlying the ability of EP2 to maintain uterine quiescence and activate a proinflammatory/prolabor response in term-pregnant human myometrium. Human myometrial biopsies for in vivo and in vitro studies were taken at cesarean section at term, before or after the onset of labor. Activation of EP2 increased intracellular levels of cAMP and reduced contractility. Contrastingly, EP2 stimulation increased levels of PGHS-2, membrane-associated PGE synthase-1, and PGE2. This was entirely dependent on EP2-mediated activation of calcium signaling. Both calcium signaling and up-regulation of PGHS-2 were insensitive to the Gαi inhibitor pertussis toxin but inhibited by small interfering RNA knockdown of Gαq/11. There were no differences in EP2 mRNA or protein levels between upper or lower segment myometrium or between pre- and postlabor myometrium. However, in myocytes taken after the onset of labor, cAMP signaling was markedly attenuated, whereas activation of calcium and PGHS-2 was preserved. Overall, the dual coupling of EP2 to Gαs-cAMP and Gαq/11-calcium pathways underlies its ability to mediate contrasting functions in term pregnancy and the “switching” to a prolabor receptor.
Acute metabolic decompensation due to influenza in a mouse model of ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
Authors: Mc Guire Peter , Tarasenko Tatiana N. , Wang Tony , Levy Ezra , Zerfas Patricia M. , Moran Thomas , Lee Hye Seung , Bequette Brian J. , Diaz George A.
Published: November 2013

The urea cycle functions to incorporate ammonia, generated by normal metabolism, into urea. Urea cycle disorders (UCD) are caused by loss of function in any of the enzymes responsible for ureagenesis, and are characterized by life-threatening episodes of acute metabolic decompensation with hyperammonemia (HA). A prospective analysis of interim HA events in a cohort of patients with ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, the most common UCD, revealed that intercurrent infection was the most common precipitant of acute HA and was associated with markers of increased morbidity when compared to other precipitants. To further understand these clinical observations, we developed a model system of metabolic decompensation with HA triggered by viral infection (PR8 influenza) using spf-ash mice, a model of OTC deficiency. Both WT and spf-ash displayed similar cytokine profiles and lung viral titers in response to PR8 influenza infection. During infection, spf-ash displayed an increase in liver transaminases suggesting a hepatic sensitivity to the inflammatory response and an altered hepatic immune response. Despite having no visible pathologic changes by histology, WT and spf-ash had reduced CPS1 and OTC enzyme activities, and unlike WT, spf-ash failed to increase ureagenesis. Depression of urea cycle function was seen in liver amino acid analysis with reductions seen in aspartate, ornithine and arginine during infection. In conclusion, we developed a model system of acute metabolic decompensation due to infection in a mouse model of a urea cycle disorder. In addition, we have identified metabolic perturbations during infection in the spf-ash mice, including a reduction of urea cycle intermediates. This model of acute metabolic decompensation with HA due to infection in UCD serves as a platform for exploring biochemical perturbations and the efficacy of treatments, and may be adapted to explore acute decompensation in other types of inborn errors of metabolism.
The sensitivity of lateral line receptors and their role in the behavior of Mexican blind cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus)
Authors: Yoshizawa Masato , Jeffery William , Van Netten Sietse , McHenry Matthew
Published: November 2013

The characid fish species Astyanax mexicanus offers a classic comparative model for the evolution of sensory systems. Populations of this species evolved in caves and became blind while others remained in streams (i.e. surface fish) and retained a functional visual system. The flow-sensitive lateral line receptors, called superficial neuromasts, are more numerous in cavefish than in surface fish, but it is unclear if individual neuromasts differ in sensitivity between these populations. The aims of this study were to determine if the neuromasts in cavefish impart enhanced sensitivity relative to surface fish and to test whether this aids their ability to sense flow in the absence of visual input. Sensitivity was assessed by modeling the mechanics and hydrodynamics of a flow stimulus. This model required that we measure the dimensions of the transparent cupula of a neuromast, which was visualized with fluorescent microspheres. We found that neuromasts within the eye orbit and in the suborbital region were larger and consequently about twice as sensitive in small adult cavefish as in surface fish. Behavioral experiments found that these cavefish, but not surface fish, were attracted to a 35Hz flow stimulus. These results support the hypothesis that the large superficial neuromasts of small cavefish aid in flow sensing. We conclude that the morphology of the lateral line could have evolved in cavefish to permit foraging in a cave environment.
Laser-patterned Composite Carbon Structures for Wound Monitoring Technologies
Authors: Phair Jolene , Brown Andrew , James Ursula , McCabe Christopher , McCartney Ben , McGranaghan Shaunagh , Monachan Reshma , Cundell Jill , Davis James
Published: November 2013

Carbon–polycarbonate films were investigated as a conductive substrate with the potential for monitoring chronic wounds. The films were found to be mechanically flexible and could be easily integrated within conventional dressing materials. The electrochemical properties of the films and their ability to selectively monitor urate (as an endogenous pH probe) were investigated. A preliminary assessment of its performance in simulated wound fluid was conducted.
Are we divorced from the species we study?
Authors: Smith David Roy
Published: November 2013

In the past few years my interactions with the species I study have been restricted to strings of nucleotides spread across an LCD screen. Bioinformatics has provided me with an amazing window into some of the most interesting algae on Earth, but it has also made me feel distanced from my research organisms, and biology as a whole. This opinion article touches upon these feelings and asks whether many of us should reconsider our relationship to the taxa we investigate.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast: Can Biomarkers Improve Current Management?
Authors: Bartlett John , Nofech-Moses Sharon , Rakovitch Eileen
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

Screening for invasive cancer has led to a marked increase in the detection of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). DCIS is, if appropriately managed, a low-risk disease which has a small chance of impacting on patient life expectancy. However, despite significant advances in prognostic marker development in invasive breast cancer, there are no validated diagnostic assays to inform treatment choice for women with DCIS. Therefore we are unable to target effective treatment strategies to women at high risk and avoid over-treatment of women at low risk of progression to invasive breast cancer. Paradoxically, one effect of this uncertainty is undertreatment of some women.

CONTENT

We review current practice and research in the field to identify key challenges in the management of DCIS. The impact of clinical research, particularly on the over and undertreatment of women with DCIS is assessed. We note slow progress toward development of diagnostic biomarkers and highlight key opportunities to accelerate advances in this area.

DCIS is a low-risk disease, its incidence is increasing, and current treatment is effective. However, many women are either over- or undertreated. Despite repeated calls for development of diagnostic biomarkers, progress in this area has been slow, reflecting a relative lack of investment of research effort and funding. Given the low event rate in treated patients and the lateness of recurrences, many previous studies have only limited power to identify independent prognostic and predictive biomarkers. However, the potential for such biomarkers to personalize treatment for DCIS is extremely high.
Compositional Multiscale Finite-Volume Formulation
Authors: Hajibeygi H.. , Tchelepi H.A.. A.
Published: November 2013

The multiscale finite-volume (MSFV) method is extended to include compositional processes in heterogeneous porous media, which require accurate modeling of the mass transfer and associated phase behaviors. A sequential-implicit strategy is used to deal with the coupling of the flow (pressure) and transport (component overall concentration) problems. In this compositional formulation, the overall continuity equation is used to formulate the pressure equation. The resulting pressure equation conserves total mass by construction and depends weakly on the distributions of the phase compositions. The transport equations are expressed in terms of the overall composition; hence, phase-appearance and -disappearance effects do not appear explicitly in these expressions. The details of the MSFV strategy for the pressure equation are described. The only source of error in this MSFV framework is the localization assumption. No additional assumptions related to the complex physics are used. For 1D problems, the sequential strategy is validated against solutions obtained by a fully implicit simulator. The accuracy of the MSFV method for compositional simulations is then illustrated for different test cases.
From optimization of synbiotic microparticles prepared by spray-drying to development of new functional carrot juice
Authors: Petreska-Ivanovska Tanja , Petrushevska-Tozi Lidija , Grozdanov Anita , Petkovska Rumenka , Hadjieva Jasmina , Popovski Emil , Stafilov Trajce , Mladenovska Kristina
Published: November 2013

Lactobacillus casei loaded chitosan-Ca-alginate microparticles enriched with
the prebiotic fructooligosaccharide were prepared using spray-drying method
associated with the polymers complexation and cross-linking with calcium. The
concentrations of the formulation factors of alginate, chitosan and CaCl2
were optimized using 23 full factorial design. Experiments showed that
microparticles with favorable physicochemical properties and high probiotic
viability during preparation and storage could be obtained when 40 mg/g
sodium alginate, 5 mg/g chitosan and 50 mg/g CaCl2 is used. Stability of L.
casei during microencapsulation was identified by FTIR spectroscopy. The
viability of the probiotic in the optimal formulation of synbiotic
microparticles remained above the therapeutic minimum during incubation of 24
hours in simulated gastrointestinal conditions (7.67?0.4 log cfu/g) as well
as after 3 months of cold storage (8.1?0.6 log cfu/g). High viability of L.
casei was maintained during 6 weeks of cold storage when carrot juice was
enriched with encapsulated cells. The effective preservation of L. casei into
synbiotic microparticles provided production of new non-dairy functional food
as an alternative of the population who is at risk of lactose intolerance.
Clinical application of perfusion computed tomography in neurosurgery
Authors: Huang Abel Po-Hao , Tsai Jui-Chang , Kuo Lu-Ting , Lee Chung-Wei , Lai Hong-Shiee , Tsai Li-Kai , Huang Sheng-Jean , Chen Chien-Min , Chen Yuan-Shen , Chuang Hao-Yu , Wintermark Max
Published: November 2013

Object

Currently, perfusion CT (PCT) is a valuable imaging technique that has been successfully applied to the clinical management of patients with ischemic stroke and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). However, recent literature and the authors' experience have shown that PCT has many more important clinical applications in a variety of neurosurgical conditions. Therefore, the authors share their experiences of its application in various diseases of the cerebrovascular, neurotraumatology, and neurooncology fields and review the pertinent literature regarding expanding PCT applications for neurosurgical conditions, including pitfalls and future developments.

Methods

A pertinent literature search was conducted of English-language articles describing original research, case series, and case reports from 1990 to 2011 involving PCT and with relevance and applicability to neurosurgical disorders.

Results

In the cerebrovascular field, PCT is already in use as a diagnostic tool for patients suspected of having an ischemic stroke. Perfusion CT can be used to identify and define the extent of the infarct core and ischemic penumbra core, and thus aid patient selection for acute reperfusion therapy. For patients with aneurysmal SAH, PCT provides assessment of early brain injury, cerebral ischemia, and infarction, in addition to vasospasm. It may also be used to aid case selection for aggressive treatment of patients with poor SAH grade. In terms of oncological applications, PCT can be used as an imaging biomarker to assess angiogenesis and response to antiangiogenetic treatments, differentiate between glioma grades, and distinguish recurrent tumor from radiation necrosis. In the setting of traumatic brain injury, PCT can detect and delineate contusions at an early stage. In patients with mild head injury, PCT results have been shown to correlate with the severity and duration of postconcussion syndrome. In patients with moderate or severe head injury, PCT results have been shown to correlate with patients' functional outcome.

Conclusions

Perfusion CT provides quantitative and qualitative data that can add diagnostic and prognostic value in a number of neurosurgical disorders, and also help with clinical decision making. With emerging new technical developments in PCT, such as characterization of blood-brain barrier permeability and whole-brain PCT, this technique is expected to provide more and more insight into the pathophysiology of many neurosurgical conditions.
Overexpression of adenosine kinase in cortical astrocytes and focal neocortical epilepsy in mice
Authors: Shen Hai-Ying , Sun Hai , Hanthorn Marissa M. , Zhi Zhongwei , Lan Jing-Quan , Poulsen David J. , Wang Ruikang K. , Boison Detlev
Published: November 2013

Object

New experimental models and diagnostic methods are needed to better understand the pathophysiology of focal neocortical epilepsies in a search for improved epilepsy treatment options. The authors hypothesized that a focal disruption of adenosine homeostasis in the neocortex might be sufficient to trigger electrographic seizures. They further hypothesized that a focal disruption of adenosine homeostasis might affect microcirculation and thus offer a diagnostic opportunity for the detection of a seizure focus located in the neocortex.

Methods

Focal disruption of adenosine homeostasis was achieved by injecting an adeno-associated virus (AAV) engineered to overexpress adenosine kinase (ADK), the major metabolic clearance enzyme for the brain's endogenous anticonvulsant adenosine, into the neocortex of mice. Eight weeks following virus injection, the affected brain area was imaged via optical microangiography (OMAG) to detect changes in microcirculation. After completion of imaging, cortical electroencephalography (EEG) recordings were obtained from the imaged brain area.

Results

Viral expression of the Adk cDNA in astrocytes generated a focal area (~ 2 mm in diameter) of ADK overexpression within the neocortex. OMAG scanning revealed a reduction in vessel density within the affected brain area of approximately 23% and 29% compared with control animals and the contralateral hemisphere, respectively. EEG recordings revealed electrographic seizures within the focal area of ADK overexpression at a rate of 1.3 ± 0.2 seizures per hour (mean ± SEM).

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that focal adenosine deficiency is sufficient to generate a neocortical focus of hyperexcitability, which is also characterized by reduced vessel density. The authors conclude that their model constitutes a useful tool to study neocortical epilepsies and that OMAG constitutes a noninvasive diagnostic tool for the imaging of seizure foci with disrupted adenosine homeostasis.
Averting Comfortable Lifestyle Crises
Authors: Bilton Rod
Published: November 2013

How have climate change and diet shaped the evolution of human energy metabolism, and responses to vitamin C, fructose and uric acid?

Through the last three millennia observant physicians have noted the association of inappropriate diets with increased incidence of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer, and over the past 300 years doctors in the UK observed that overeating increased the incidence of these diseases.

Anthropological studies of the Inuit culture in the mid-nineteenth century revealed that humans can survive and thrive in the virtual absence of dietary carbohydrate. In the 1960s, Cahill revealed the flexibility of human metabolism in response to partial and total starvation and demonstrated that type 2 diabetics were better adapted than healthy subjects to conserving protein during fasting. The potential role for brown adipose tissue thermogenesis in temperature maintenance and dietary calorie control was suggested by Rothwell and Stock from their experiments with ‘cafeteria fed rats’ in the 1980s. Recent advances in gene array studies and PET scanning support a role for this process in humans.

The industrialisation of food processing in the twentieth century has led to increases in palatability and digestibility with a parallel loss of quality leading to overconsumption and the current obesity epidemic. The switch from animal to vegetable fats at the beginning of the twentieth century, followed by the rapid increase in sugar and fructose consumption from 1979 is mirrored by a steep increase in obesity in the 1980s, in the UK and USA. Containment of the obesity epidemic is compounded by the addictive properties of sugar which involve the same dopamine receptors in the pleasure centres of the brain as for cocaine, nicotine and alcohol.

Of the many other toxic effects of excessive sugar consumption, immunocompromisation, kidney damage, atherosclerosis, oxidative stress and cancer are highlighted.

The WHO and guidelines on sugar consumption include: alternative non-sugar sweeteners; toxic side-effects of aspartame. Stevia and xylitol as healthy sugar replacements; the role of food processing in dietary health; and beneficial effects of resistant starch in natural and processed foods.

The rise of maize and soya-based vegetable oils have led to omega-6 fat overload and imbalance in the dietary ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fats. This has led to toxicity studies with industrial trans fats; investigations on health risks associated with stress and comfort eating; and abdominal obesity.

Other factors to consider are: diet, cholesterol and oxidative stress, as well as the new approaches to the chronology of eating and the health benefits of intermittent fasting.
Photoinduced Electron Transfer Processes of Functionalized Nanocarbons; Fullerenes, Nanotubes and Graphene
Authors: D'souza Francis , Ito Osamu
Published: November 2013

To solve the energy demands for a sustainable society, it is crucial to use clean solar energy. Thus, finding methods for efficient light energy conversion is an important scientific goal. For this aim, molecular devices employing composites of nanocarbons such as fullerenes, single wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and graphene are promising. In this review, we survey light-induced electron-transfer processes of these nanocarbons hybridized with photosensitizers, which have proved to be more favorable than ordinary molecules. Fullerenes connected with suitable electron donors yield characteristic long-lived radical ion pairs, suitable for constructing artificial photosynthetic systems. For SWCNTs, a combination of photosensitizers is also crucial to achieve efficient photo-induced electron transfer processes. Furthermore, in the case of diameter-sorted semi-conductive SWCNTs, each tube can be treated as a “molecule”, thus, allowing molecular orbital calculations to probe the geometry as well as the electronic structures of the photosensitizernanotube hybrids. The two-dimensional graphene has afforded a new reaction field with a wide π-system for the attached molecules. For the confirmation of electron transfer processes, transient absorption methods in the wide wavelength regions have been used effectively. The kinetic data obtained in solution are quite useful to understand the electron transfer mechanisms, which afford useful guiding principles to construct efficient light-energy harvesting devices such as photoelectrochemical and photovoltaic solar cells.
From Test Tube to Turner – the Role of the Chemist in Art
Authors: Abbott Andrew P.
Published: November 2013

Most modern art galleries arrange their collections in chronological order and to the average viewer it often the changes in style, fashion or subject matter that is indicative of the passage of time. Far less noted, although possibly more obvious is the change in paint which occurred. Ultimately it is the evolution of chemical techniques that is responsible for these developments. In this article, the major changes in chemical techniques and elemental discovery will be mapped onto the subsequent development of pigments and their use in artworks.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Two Freshwater Copepods (Copepoda: Diaptomidae), Neodiaptomus schmackeri (Poppe and Richard, 1892) and Mongolodiaptomus birulai (Rylov, 1922) from Taiwan
Authors: Young Shuh-Sen , Lin Shu-Chuan , Liu Min-Yun
Published: November 2013

We used the mitochondria DNA COI (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) sequence as a genetic marker to analyze the population genetic structure of two species of freshwater copepods, Neodiaptomus schmackeri (Poppe and Richard, 1892) and Mongolodiaptomus birulai (Rylov, 1922) from Taiwan. Four populations with 51 individuals of N. schmackeri and five populations with 65 individuals of M. birulai were included. We compared the nucleotide sequences of a 635-bp fragment of the COI gene of N. schmackeri and a 655-bp fragment of the COI gene of M. birulai, and eight and 14 unique haplotypes were recorded, respectively. Tseng-Wen reservoir and Wu-San-Tao reservoir are linked by a channel, and the gene flow between them was unrestricted (Fst = 0.058; Nm = 4.04; Fst, population differentiation parameter; Nm, the number of succesfull migrants per generation); the gene flow between all other populations of both species was restricted (Fst = 0.4–0.99; Nm = 0–0.37). Based on the COI gene diversification pattern, we suggest that most populations of N. schmackeri and M. birulai are isolated from each other. According to the neighbor-joining tree and the minimum spanning network (MSN), the species have similar metapopulation genetic structures. Genetic distance was not found to be correlated with geographical distance. The genetic diversification pattern was not shown to be comparable with geographical isolation owing to long-distance separation. The genetic structure of the present populations may result from serial extinction and redistribution of the populations formed in each reservoir relative to time. Human activity in the reservoirs with regards to water resource management and the fishery industry also exerts an effect on population redistribution.
Quitter l’enfance, devenir adulte [L’hétérogénéité des représentations adolescentes concernant l’âge d’accès à l’autonomie]
Authors: Gasparini Rachel , Joly-Rissoan Odile , Dalud-Vincent Monique
Published: November 2013

Leaving childhood behind and becoming adults The heterogeneity of adolescent representations of the age for becoming autonomous.

In our Western societies, there is a general agreement that adolescents want to become autonomous as early as possible. The continuing investigation of households’ living conditions and its variable part concerning Education and the Family carried out by the Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques (2003) offers an opportunity to question this «obvious » fact. Thus it appears that not all middle and secondary school students between the ages of 10 and 23 have the same ideas about the age at which one can become autonomous ; those ideas are socially determined. On one hand, the fields in question (leisure activities, outings, shopping, clothes, sociability, school) give rise to aspirations to autonomy at varying ages (the activities relating to socialization outside the family and between peers being the most coveted ones), and on the other hand there are considerable variations depending on the young people’s social origin (which is approached by determining the socioprofessional category and educational level of the parents). Children from the lower classes indicate later ages for obtaining autonomy, and the mother seems to play a dominant role in this kind of parental influence, particularly in the light of her educational level, but not insignificant are also father’s professions or socio-professional categories.
La pauvreté des familles : comparaisons européennes.
Authors: Ponthieux Sophie
Published: November 2013

Family poverty : European comparisons.

This article offers compares the main features of poverty in six member nations of the European Union. The first section reviews the main conventions adopted for the measurement of poverty and attempts to compare terre impact in various countries, in particular the choice of an equivalence scale. The second section focuses the characteristics of the poor by household type, usine several typologies of hosueholds ; the comparison of three subpolulations (dépendent children, '' adults'', elders) shows the similarities – and alto the differences – in the composition of poverty by country.
Mariage et partenariat de même sexe en Europe [Vingt ans d’expérience]
Authors: Banens Maks
Published: November 2013

Same-sex marriage and partnership in Europe. Twenty years of experience.

This article offers a comparative analysis of the frequency with which same-sex couples register in twelve European Union member States. Where this is possible, the author uses statistics published by national statistics offices. However, estimates cannot be avoided to offset the lack of statistics concerning same-sex couples. The comparative analysis also uses legal factors and political debate through an analysis of the press, opinion polls and sociological surveys of same-sex couples. The results highlight major contrasts between countries. Scandinavian countries and Germany, which tend to serve as precursors, recorded a low rate of registered partnerships. Benelux (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxemburg), France and Spain were average. The United Kingdom and Switzerland recorded a high rate. Various usages refer to the different statuses (universel or specific for same-sex couples) of the legal arrangments. They also refer to the values accorded to the family and the welfare state.
Retombées économiques des politiques d’accueil de la petite enfance [Quelques approches récentes]
Authors: Chauffaut Delphine , Boyer Danielle
Published: November 2013

FRE: Politiques publiques, Petite enfance, Modes de garde.
Les bénéficiaires de l’assurance vieillesse des parents au foyer
Authors: Nicolas Muriel , Thibault Florence
Published: November 2013

FRE: AVPF, Prestations familiales, CAF.
Le logement des jeunes : synthèse des études statistiques récentes
Authors: Kesteman Nadia
Published: November 2013

FRE: Logement, Jeunes, Statistiques.
La décision d’avoir un enfant : une liberté sous contraintes
Authors: Régnier-Loilier Arnaud , Solaz Anne
Published: November 2013

Le contexte de la fécondité s’est profondément modifié au cours du siècle dernier, passant d’un régime de fécondité sous contraintes à un régime de fécondité choisie. La contraception moderne et le libre recours à l’avortement ont participé à une raréfaction des naissances non désirées ou mal programmées. Une conséquence de cette évolution, dont sont retracées les grandes lignes dans cet article, est l’existence aujourd’hui d’une norme de l’enfant désiré et programmé. Les couples pouvant désormais choisir le « bon moment » , ils se fixent un certain nombre de conditions préalables avant d’avoir un enfant. Situations professionnelle, matérielle, affective, indépendance résidentielle ou encore sentiment de sécurité en l’avenir sont autant de facteurs qui influencent de manière assez similaire les intentions de fécondité des hommes et des femmes. À ce contexte individuel et conjugal s’ajoute le poids des normes sociales. La pression à concevoir semble plus forte en France que dans la plupart des pays européens.