bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Revolutionary is the Holy Spirit?
Authors: Webb Stephen H.
Published: January 2014

Most theologians agree that the early church neglected the Holy Spirit in formulations of the Trinity, and in recent years, many books have been written to redress this deficiency. Pentecostal theologians are especially invested in recovering a fuller doctrine of the Holy Spirit. These two monographs, one by an established scholar (Steve Studebaker) and the other by a relative newcomer (Andrew Gabriel), are among the best on this topic. Both are unafraid to be critical of Pentecostal theology and both are valuable for their specificity. Gabriel revises the divine attributes of classical theism while Studebaker goes even further by arguing that the Holy Spirit constitutes the Trinity. Neither author is sympathetic to Social Trinitarianism, and Studebaker in particular is critical of Richard of Saint Victor, who is often credited as an early progenitor of the social model. This first complete translation of Richard's treatise on the Trinity, by Ruben Angelici, reveals a radical view of the Holy Spirit and thus needs to be taken seriously by all future discussions of this topic. Richard not only gives the Holy Spirit its own personal identity but also ties the Spirit to God's power of listening, just as the Son is God's Word.
Evaluation of enrichment method for the detection of Vibrio cholerae O1 using a rapid dipstick test in Bangladesh
Authors: George Christine M. , Rashid Mahamud‐ur , Sack David A. , Bradley Sack R. , Saif‐Ur‐Rahman K. M. , Azman Andrew S. , Monira Shirajum , Bhuyian Sazzadul I. , Zillur Rahman K. M. , Toslim Mahmud M. , Mustafiz Munshi , Alam Munirul
Published: January 2014

Background

To evaluate the specificity of the Crystal VC dipstick test for detecting cholera.

Methods

We compared direct testing using the Crystal VC dipstick test and testing after enrichment for 6 h in alkaline peptone water (APW) to bacterial culture as the gold standard. Samples positive by dipstick but negative by culture were also tested using PCR.

Results

Stool was collected from 125 patients. The overall specificities of the direct testing and testing after 6‐h enrichment in APW compared to bacterial culture were 91.8% and 98.4% (P = 0.125), respectively, and the sensitivities were 65.6% and 75.0% (P = 0.07), respectively.

Conclusion

The increase in the sensitivity of the Crystal VC kit with the use of the 6‐h enrichment step in APW compared to direct testing was marginally significant. The Crystal VC dipstick had a much higher specificity than previously reported (91–98%). Therefore, this method might be a promising screening tool for cholera outbreak surveillance in resource‐limited settings where elimination of false‐positive results is critical.
Effects of racing on reticulocyte concentrations in Greyhounds
Authors: Horvath S.J. , Couto C.G. , Yant K. , Kontur K. , Bohenko L. , Iazbik M.C. , Marín L.M. , Hudson D. , Chase J. , Frye M. , DeNicola D.B.
Published: January 2014

Background

Greyhounds have several hematologic variables that are outside of the respective reference intervals of other dog breeds. In addition, increases in HCT, total protein and HGB concentration, and RBC and WBC counts occur immediately after exercise; these values return to resting values within a few hour after racing.

Objective

This study evaluated the effects of exercise on the concentration of reticulocytes in circulating blood in racing Greyhounds. We hypothesized that reticulocyte numbers are significantly increased immediately after a race, and return to baseline within one to 2 h postrace.

Methods

Fifty actively racing Greyhounds at the Wheeling Island Racetrack and Casino were included in the study. Samples were collected by jugular venipuncture one day prior to racing at the kennel (resting), immediately after racing, and one to 2 h after the race (recovery). Reticulocyte counts were determined with an IDEXX ProCyte Dx Hematology Analyzer (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME, USA). Due to a nonparametric distribution, the results were statistically compared using the Friedman test.

Results

Reticulocyte concentrations were significantly different among the 3 sample collection times (P < .0001). There was a significant increase in reticulocyte concentration immediately after racing (P < .001); one to 2 h after racing, the reticulocyte numbers decreased significantly (P < .001) to counts comparable to resting samples.

Conclusion

The increase in reticulocyte concentration is probably related to splenic contraction secondary to the release of catecholamines, although premature bone marrow release could also account for these changes. Thus, it is important to consider a Greyhound's activity and degree of excitement when interpreting selected hematologic data in a clinical setting.
Using Athletes’ World Rankings to Assess Countries’ Performance
Authors: Malcata Rita M. , Vandenbogaerde Tom J. , Hopkins Will G.
Published: January 2014

There is a need for fair measures of country sport performance that include athletes who do not win medals.

Purpose:

To develop a measure of country performance based on athlete ranks in the sport of swimming.

Methods:

Annual top-150 ranks in Olympic pool-swimming events were downloaded for 1990 through 2011. For each athlete of a given rank, a score representing the athlete’s performance potential was estimated as the proportion of athletes of that rank who ever achieved top rank. A country’s scores were calculated by summing its athletes’ scores over all 32 events. Reliability and convergent validity were assessed via year-to-year correlations and correlations with medal counts at major competitions. The method was also applied to ranks at the 2012 Olympics to evaluate countries’ swimming performance.

Results:

The performance score of an athlete of a given rank was closely approximated by 1/rank. This simpler score has 1 practical interpretation: An athlete ranked 7th (for example) has a chance of 1/7 of ever achieving top rank; for purposes of evaluating country performance, 7 such athletes are equivalent to 1 athlete of the top rank. Country scores obtained by summing 1/rank of the country’s athletes had high reliability and validity. This approach produced scores for 168 countries at the Olympics, whereas only 17 countries won medals.

Conclusions:

The authors used the sport of swimming to develop a fair and inclusive measure representing a country’s performance potential. This measure should be suitable for assessing countries in any sports with world rankings or with athletes at major competitions.
Do Elite Endurance Athletes Report Their Training Accurately?
Authors: Sylta Øystein , Tønnessen Espen , Seiler Stephen
Published: January 2014

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to validate the accuracy of self-reported (SR) training duration and intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes.

Methods:

Twenty-four elite cross-country skiers (25 ± 4 y, 67.9 ± 9.88 kg, 75.9 ± 6.50 mL · min−1 · kg−1) SR all training sessions during an ~14-d altitude-training camp. Heart rate (HR) and some blood lactate measurements were collected during 466 training sessions. SR training was compared with recorded training duration from HR monitors, and SR intensity distribution was compared with expert analysis (EA) of all session data.

Results:

SR training was nearly perfectly correlated with recorded training duration (r = .99), but SR training was 1.7% lower than recorded training duration (P < .001). SR training duration was also nearly perfectly correlated (r = .95) with recorded training duration >55% HRmax, but SR training was 11.4% higher than recorded training duration >55% HRmax (P < .001) due to SR inclusion of time <55% HRmax. No significant differences were observed in intensity distribution in zones 1–2 between SR and EA comparisons, but small discrepancies were found in zones 3–4 (P < .001).

Conclusions:

This study provides evidence that elite endurance athletes report their training data accurately, although some small differences were observed due to lack of a SR “gold standard.” Daily SR training is a valid method of quantifying training duration and intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes. However, additional common reporting guidelines would further enhance accuracy.
Internalization of
Salmonella
by Macrophages Induces Formation of Nonreplicating Persisters
Authors: Helaine Sophie , Cheverton Angela M. , Watson Kathryn G. , Faure Laura M. , Matthews Sophie A. , Holden David W.
Published: January 2014

Persistent Survival

The role of persister cells—dormant cells that survive multidrug treatment—in the context of bacterial pathogenesis has not been explored in depth. Using a single-cell fluorescent dilution technique,

Helaine
et al.

(p.
204
) examined
Salmonella
Typhimurium persister-cell formation in vitro and in infections in mice. Within 30 min after phagocytosis by macrophages,
Salmonella
cells follow one of two fates, either to replication and generation of virulence effectors or to remaining viable but become nonreplicating persisters.
Salmonella
living within a macrophage vacuole are exposed to potentially stressful conditions that induce the expression of 14 Type II toxin-antidote loci in a ppGpp/lon protease-dependent manner, and this system appears to play a role in both virulence factor induction and persister-cell formation. The nonreplicating bacteria represent at least four distinct subpopulations, as defined by their ability to resume growth and their metabolic activity, but different phenotypes are observed in different pathogens and
Escherichia coli
persisters are distinct from
Salmonella
persisters.
Virus-Like Particle Vaccine Confers Protection against a Lethal Newcastle Disease Virus Challenge in Chickens and Allows a Strategy of Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals
Authors: Park Jae-Keun , Lee Dong-Hun , Yuk Seong-Su , Tseren-Ochir Erdene-Ochir , Kwon Jung-Hoon , Noh Jin-Yong , Kim Byoung-Yoon , Choi Soo-Won , Kang Sang-Moo , Lee Joong-Bok , Park Seung-Yong , Choi In-Soo , Song Chang-Seon
Published: January 2014

In this study, we developed Newcastle disease virus (NDV) virus-like particles (VLPs) expressing NDV fusion (F) protein along with influenza virus matrix 1 (M1) protein using the insect cell expression system. Specific-pathogen-free chickens were immunized with oil emulsion NDV VLP vaccines containing increasing dosages of VLPs (0.4, 2, 10, or 50 μg of VLPs/0.5-ml dose). Three weeks after immunization, the immunogenicity of the NDV VLP vaccines was determined using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit, and a lethal challenge using a highly virulent NDV strain was performed to evaluate the protective efficacy of the NDV VLP vaccines. NDV VLP vaccines elicited anti-NDV antibodies and provided protection against a lethal challenge in a dose-dependent manner. Although the VLP vaccines containing 0.4 and 2 μg of VLPs failed to achieve high levels of protection, a single immunization with NDV VLP vaccine containing 10 or 50 μg could fully protect chickens from a lethal challenge and greatly reduced challenge virus shedding. Furthermore, we could easily differentiate infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA) using the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. These results strongly suggest that utilization of NDV VLP vaccine in poultry species may be a promising strategy for the better control of NDV.
Comparison of Four Commercial One-Dose Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Vaccines Administered to Pigs Challenged with PCV2 and Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus at 17 Weeks Postvaccination To Control Porcine Respiratory Disease Complex under Korean Field Conditions
Authors: Park Changhoon , Seo Hwi Won , Han Kiwon , Chae Chanhee
Published: January 2014

Under Korean field conditions, coinfection with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is most commonly observed in porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC). Despite the wide use of PCV2 vaccination, PRDC remains a serious respiratory problem. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine and compare the efficacy of 4 one-dose PCV2 vaccines on 3-week-old pigs with an experimental PCV2-PRRSV challenge at 17 weeks postvaccination. Regardless of which commercial PCV2 vaccine was used, the vaccination of piglets at 3 weeks of age was efficacious against cochallenge of PCV2 and PRRSV, on the basis of growth performance and PCV2-associated lesions. However, the inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 and the PCV2 vaccines induced higher PCV2-specific neutralizing antibody (NA) titers and PCV2-specific gamma interferon-secreting cells and lower PCV2 viremia levels than the two PCV2 subunit vaccines. The vaccination of piglets against PCV2 at 3 weeks of age was effective in reducing PCV2 viremia and PCV2-associated lesions during the finishing period, which is an age at which pigs are frequently affected by PRDC caused by coinfection with PCV2 and PRRSV under Korean field conditions.
Evaluation of the New Brilliance GBS Chromogenic Medium for Screening of Streptococcus agalactiae Vaginal Colonization in Pregnant Women
Authors: Verhoeven Paul O. , Noyel Pauline , Bonneau Julie , Carricajo Anne , Fonsale Nathalie , Ros Alain , Pozzetto Bruno , Grattard Florence
Published: January 2014

Three commercial chromogenic agar media were evaluated for
Streptococcus agalactiae
screening in 200 vaginal swabs from pregnant women. The sensitivity and specificity were 94.3% and 100% for Granada medium (bioMérieux), 100% and 90.3% for Brilliance GBS medium (Thermo Fisher Scientific), and 100% and 98.8% for ChromID STRB medium (bioMérieux), respectively.
Isavuconazole Treatment of a Patient with Disseminated Mucormycosis
Authors: Peixoto Driele , Gagne Lisa S. , Hammond Sarah P. , Gilmore Erin T. , Joyce Amy C. , Soiffer Robert J. , Marty Francisco M.
Published: January 2014

We report a patient with relapsed acute myelogenous leukemia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation who developed disseminated mucormycosis due to
Rhizomucor pusillus
/
R. miehei
involving lung, brain, and skin. After failing posaconazole and being intolerant to amphotericin, he was treated effectively with isavuconazole for over 6 months despite ongoing treatment for relapsed leukemia.
The Mitochondrial Translocator Protein, TSPO, Inhibits HIV-1 Envelope Glycoprotein Biosynthesis via the Endoplasmic Reticulum-Associated Protein Degradation Pathway
Authors: Zhou Tao , Dang Ying , Zheng Yong-Hui
Published: January 2014

The HIV-1 Env glycoprotein is folded in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is necessary for viral entry and replication. Currently, it is still unclear how this process is regulated. The glycoprotein folding in the ER is controlled by the ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) pathway, which specifically targets misfolded proteins for degradation. Previously, we reported that HIV-1 replication is restricted in the human CD4+T cell line CEM.NKR (NKR). To understand this mechanism, we first analyzed cellular protein expression in NKR cells and discovered that levels of the mitochondrial translocator protein TSPO were upregulated by ∼64-fold. Notably, when NKR cells were treated with TSPO antagonist PK-11195, Ro5-4864, or diazepam, HIV restriction was completely disrupted, and TSPO knockdown by short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) achieved a similar effect. We next analyzed viral protein expression, and, interestingly, we discovered that Env expression was specifically inhibited. Both TSPO knockdown and treatment with TSPO antagonist could restore Env expression in NKR cells. We further discovered that Env proteins were rapidly degraded and that kifunensine, an ERAD pathway inhibitor, could restore Env expression and viral replication, indicating that Env proteins were misfolded and degraded through the ERAD pathway in NKR cells. We also knocked out the TSPO gene in 293T cells using CRISPR/Cas9 (clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat [CRISPR]/CRISPR-associated-9) technology and found that TSPO could similarly inhibit Env expression in these cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate that TSPO inhibits Env protein expression through the ERAD pathway and suggest that mitochondria play an important role in regulating the Env folding process.

IMPORTANCEThe HIV-1 Env glycoprotein is absolutely required for viral infection, and an understanding of its expression pathway in infected cells will identify new targets for antiretroviral therapies. Env proteins are folded in the ER and secreted through the classical secretory pathway. The Env folding process involves extensive cross-linking of 10 Cys residues by disulfide bond formation and heavy N-glycosylation on ∼30 Asn residues. Currently, it is still unclear how this process is regulated. Here, we studied this mechanism in the HIV nonpermissive human CD4+T cell line CEM.NKR. We found that Env proteins were rapidly degraded through a cellular pathway that specifically targets misfolded proteins, resulting in inhibition of Env expression. Importantly, we have identified a mitochondrial translocator protein, TSPO, which could trigger this degradation by interfering with the Env folding process. Further characterization of TSPO antiviral activity will reveal a novel antiretroviral mechanism that targets the Env protein.
A Novel Poxvirus-Based Vaccine, MVA-CHIKV, Is Highly Immunogenic and Protects Mice against Chikungunya Infection
Authors: García-Arriaza Juan , Cepeda Victoria , Hallengärd David , Sorzano Carlos Óscar S. , Kümmerer Beate Mareike , Liljeström Peter , Esteban Mariano
Published: January 2014

There is a need to develop a single and highly effective vaccine against the emerging chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which causes a severe disease in humans. Here, we have generated and characterized the immunogenicity profile and the efficacy of a novel CHIKV vaccine candidate based on the highly attenuated poxvirus vector modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) expressing the CHIKV C, E3, E2, 6K, and E1 structural genes (termed MVA-CHIKV). MVA-CHIKV was stable in cell culture, expressed the CHIKV structural proteins, and triggered the cytoplasmic accumulation of Golgi apparatus-derived membranes in infected human cells. Furthermore, MVA-CHIKV elicited robust innate immune responses in human macrophages and monocyte-derived dendritic cells, with production of beta interferon (IFN-β), proinflammatory cytokines, and chemokines. After immunization of C57BL/6 mice with a homologous protocol (MVA-CHIKV/MVA-CHIKV), strong, broad, polyfunctional, and durable CHIKV-specific CD8+T cell responses were elicited. The CHIKV-specific CD8+T cells were preferentially directed against E1 and E2 proteins and, to a lesser extent, against C protein. CHIKV-specific CD8+memory T cells of a mainly effector memory phenotype were also induced. The humoral arm of the immune system was significantly induced, as MVA-CHIKV elicited high titers of neutralizing antibodies against CHIKV. Remarkably, a single dose of MVA-CHIKV protected all mice after a high-dose challenge with CHIKV. In summary, MVA-CHIKV is an effective vaccine against chikungunya virus infection that induced strong, broad, highly polyfunctional, and long-lasting CHIKV-specific CD8+T cell responses, together with neutralizing antibodies against CHIKV. These results support the consideration of MVA-CHIKV as a potential vaccine candidate against CHIKV.

IMPORTANCEWe have developed a novel vaccine candidate against chikungunya virus (CHIKV) based on the highly attenuated poxvirus vector modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) expressing the CHIKV C, E3, E2, 6K, and E1 structural genes (termed MVA-CHIKV). Our findings revealed that MVA-CHIKV is a highly effective vaccine against chikungunya virus, with a single dose of the vaccine protecting all mice after a high-dose challenge with CHIKV. Furthermore, MVA-CHIKV is highly immunogenic, inducing strong innate responses: high, broad, polyfunctional, and long-lasting CHIKV-specific CD8+T cell responses, together with neutralizing antibodies against CHIKV. This work provides a potential vaccine candidate against CHIKV.
Skin nodules in a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Le Clech Lenaïg , Hutin Pascal , Le Gal Solène , Guillerm Gaëlle
Published: January 2014

Opportunistic infections cause a significant morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. We describe the case of a patient with skin fusariosis and a probable cerebral toxoplasmosis after UCB stem cell transplantation for B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.Fusariumspecies (spp) infections are difficult to treat. To date, there has been no consensus on the treatment of fusariosis and the management of its side effects. Given the negative pretransplantToxoplasmaserology in this case, identifying the origin of theToxoplasmainfection was challenging. All usual transmission routes were screened for and ruled out. The patient's positive outcome was not consistent with that of the literature reporting 60% mortality due to each infection.
Hardiness and Outcome of Self-catheterisation Training (HOST): protocol for an observational study exploring the effects of personality traits in women on ability to learn clean intermittent self-catheterisation
Authors: Perkins Kalbinder , Randall Duncan , Toozs-Hobson Philip , Sitch Alice , Ismail Khaled MK
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Clean intermittent self-catheterisation (CISC) is the recommended first-line management of voiding dysfunction; however, psychological factors involved in acceptance and take up are often neglected. There is a tendency to discuss the success of CISC in relation to factors that affect teaching and learning, with subsequent success or failure being attributed to these. There is limited research investigating what extent, personality traits impact on a woman's willingness to learn CISC and subsequent mastery of the technique.

Method and analysis

All women attending a tertiary urogynaecology department as eligible for CISC will be invited to participate in the study. Over the 14-month recruitment period, an estimated 130 women will be involved. The participants will complete a series of self-reported questionnaires. Personality types will be assessed using The Hardiness Scale and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The impact of urinary symptoms and CISC on quality of life (QoL) will be measured using an electronic pelvic-floor assessment questionnaire (ePAQ). Success and mastery will be measured by recording the number of hospital appointments and the length of time taken to learn. Confidence will be measured using the Likert scale. A sample of 20 women will be invited to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews to explore women's views and experiences of CISC.

Ethics and dissemination

Regulatory approvals will be in place prior to the start of the study. Good clinical practice guidelines will be followed throughout. Eligibility and training for CISC will be undertaken in accordance to individualised care plans in line with unit protocol and will not be influenced by the study. Trial data will be anonymised and participant confidentiality will be maintained. The Study findings will be disseminated through publications in relevant journals and will be presented at multiprofessional conferences and scientific meetings.
Biliary boulders
Authors: Steed H , Lau K , Glass R , Durkin D , Deakin M , Green J R B
Published: January 2014

Objective

To examine the outcome of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the management of common bile duct (CBD) stones.

Design

A retrospective review of 100 consecutive ERCPs performed for CBD stones.

Results

100 ERCPs were performed on 84 patients with a median cohort age of 77. Completion in this cohort, as defined by duct clearance, was achieved in 65% of cases. Completion rates fell rapidly after two ERCPs. 33% of the cohort had small stones <10 mm, and 67% had stones >10 mm. Size, but not number of stones, affected the completion rate and frequency of complications (16%). Presence of periampullary diverticulum did not affect completion or complication rates. MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) had a 90% sensitivity for detecting CBD stones compared with 56% for CT.

Discussion and conclusions

ERCP remains a high-risk procedure with a significant complication rate when performed to deal with CBD stones. MRCP should be the second choice of investigation for CBD stones. This cohort had an unusually high number of larger stones at ERCP of 67% compared with other published UK cohorts of 8%, and this was reflected in the completion and complication rate.
A SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO DESIGN BOOLEAN FUNCTIONS USING CNFETS AND AN ARRAY OF CNFET CAPACITORS
Authors: MALEKNEJAD MOJTABA , MIRZAEE REZA FAGHIH , NAVI KEIVAN , DARGAHI AKBAR
Published: January 2014

A systematic approach for designing Boolean logic gates is presented in this paper. A single array of Carbon nanotube field effect transistor (CNFET) capacitors is utilized as a voltage divider of input signals. Then, a special path, which is consisted of CNFETs with different threshold voltages, connects the proper voltage source to the output node for each voltage level. The main concept is illustrated with the concentration on 3-input functions. However, some other logic gates with higher number of input variables are also proposed within the paper. The sensitivity to diameter variation of CNTs is measured by applying Monte Carlo analysis. It is not needed to use Karnaugh map to simplify expressions and the designs structured with the new method, benefit from low transistor count and a fixed critical path regardless of the number of input variables in comparison with conventional and standard circuitry design methods. Several practical circuits are also deigned, which have the capability of working in low voltages.
DIAGONAL-UNITARY 2-DESIGN AND THEIR IMPLEMENTATIONS BY QUANTUM CIRCUITS
Authors: NAKATA YOSHIFUMI , MURAO MIO
Published: January 2014

We study efficient generations of random diagonal-unitary matrices, an ensemble of unitary matrices diagonal in a given basis with randomly distributed phases for their eigenvalues. Despite the simple algebraic structure, they cannot be achieved by quantum circuits composed of a few-qubit diagonal gates. We introduce diagonal-unitaryt-designs and present two quantum circuits that implement diagonal-unitary 2-design with the computational basis in N-qubit systems. One is composed of single-qubit diagonal gates and controlled-phase gates with randomized phases, which achieves an exact diagonal-unitary 2-design after applying the gates on all pairs of qubits. The number of required gates is N(N - 1)/2. If the controlled-Z gates are used instead of the controlled-phase gates, the circuit cannot achieve an exact 2-design, but achieves an ϵ-approximate 2-design by applying gates on randomly selected pairs of qubits. Due to the random choice of pairs, the circuit obtains extra randomness and the required number of gates is at most O(N2(N + log 1/∊)). We also provide an application of the circuits, a protocol of generating an exact 2-design of random states by combining the circuits with a simple classical procedure requiring O(N) random classical bits.
Deletion of α-subunit exon 11 of the epithelial Na+ channel reveals a regulatory module
Authors: Chen Jingxin , Kleyman Thomas R. , Sheng Shaohu
Published: January 2014

Epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) subunits (α, β, and γ) found in functional complexes are translated from mature mRNAs that are similarly processed by the inclusion of 13 canonical exons. We examined whether individual exons 3–12, encoding the large extracellular domain, are required for functional channel expression. Human ENaCs with an in-frame deletion of a single α-subunit exon were expressed in Xenopus oocytes, and their functional properties were examined by two-electrode voltage clamp. With the exception of exon 11, deletion of an individual exon eliminated channel activity. Channels lacking α-subunit exon 11 were hyperactive. Oocytes expressing this mutant exhibited fourfold greater amiloride-sensitive whole cell currents than cells expressing wild-type channels. A parallel fivefold increase in channel open probability was observed with channels lacking α-subunit exon 11. These mutant channels also exhibited a lost of Na+ self-inhibition, whereas we found similar levels of surface expression of mutant and wild-type channels. In contrast, in-frame deletions of exon 11 from either the β- or γ-subunit led to a significant loss of channel activity, in association with a marked decrease in surface expression. Our results suggest that exon 11 within the three human ENaC genes encodes structurally homologous yet functionally diverse domains and that exon 11 in the α-subunit encodes a module that regulates channel gating.
Dopamine gates sensory representations in cortex
Authors: Eshel Neir , Tian Ju
Published: January 2014

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) maintains information about relevant sensory stimuli, in a process thought to rely on dopamine release. In a recent paper, Jacob et al. ( J Neurosci 33: 13724–13734, 2013) demonstrated one way in which dopamine might facilitate this process. The authors recorded from PFC neurons in monkeys during local application of dopamine. They found that dopamine increases the gain of sensory-evoked responses in putative pyramidal neurons in PFC, potentially by inhibiting local interneurons.
Boolean-Based Surface Procedure for the External Heat Transfer Analysis of Dams during Construction
Authors: Hu Yu , Zuo Zheng , Li Qingbin , Duan Yunling
Published: January 2014

The external heat transfer of dams during construction is complex because such transfer is location specific and time varying. An external thermal model is developed in this paper. Five types of external heat flux are considered in the mathematical model: air-side convection, electromagnetic radiation, absorbed solar input, water-side convection, and surface insulation effect. A method for extracting and classifying the external surfaces of dams on the basis of Boolean operations is proposed. Heat transfer conditions can be automatically set up for each step according to the proposed method, and the method can be used as a preprocessing facility for finite element analysis. A 285 m high arch dam in Southwest China is examined as a study case. The model is implemented and found to correctly identify different types of external surfaces. Simulation result agrees well with the monitored temperatures.
Combination Therapy of Sophoraflavanone B against MRSA:In VitroSynergy Testing
Authors: Mun Su-Hyun , Kang Ok-Hwa , Joung Dae-Ki , Kim Sung-Bae , Seo Yun-Soo , Choi Jang-Gi , Lee Young-Seob , Cha Seon-Woo , Ahn Young-Sup , Han Sin-Hee , Kwon Dong-Yeul
Published: January 2014

Sophoraflavanone B (SPF-B), a known prenylated flavonoid, was isolated from the roots ofDesmodium caudatum. The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial synergism of SPF-B combined with antibiotics against methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA). MRSA, a multidrug-resistant pathogen, causes both hospital- and community-acquired infections worldwide. The antimicrobial activity of SPF-B was assessed by the broth microdilution method, checkerboard dilution test, and time-kill curve assay. The MIC of SPF-B for 7 strains ofS. aureusranges from 15.6 to 31.25 μg/mL determined. In the checkerboard method, the combinations of SPF-B with antibiotics had a synergistic effect; SPF-B markedly reduced the MICs of theβ-lactam antibiotics: ampicillin (AMP) and oxacillin (OXI); aminoglycosides gentamicin (GET); quinolones ciprofloxacin (CIP) and norfloxacin (NOR) against MRSA. The time-kill curves assay showed that a combined SPF-B and selected antibiotics treatment reduced the bacterial counts below the lowest detectable limit after 24 h. These data suggest that the antibacterial activity of SPF-B against MRSA can be effectively increased through its combination with three groups of antibiotics (β-lactams, aminoglycosides, and quinolones). Our research can be a valuable and significant source for the development of a new antibacterial drug with low MRSA resistance.
Effect of Layer Thickness in Selective Laser Melting on Microstructure of Al/5 wt.%Fe2O3Powder Consolidated Parts
Authors: Dadbakhsh Sasan , Hao Liang
Published: January 2014

In situreaction was activated in the powder mixture of Al/5 wt.%Fe2O3by using selective laser melting (SLM) to directly fabricate aluminium metal matrix composite parts. The microstructural characteristics of thesein situconsolidated parts through SLM were investigated under the influence of thick powder bed, 75 μm layer thickness, and 50 μm layer thickness in various laser powers and scanning speeds. It was found that the layer thickness has a strong influence on microstructural outcome, mainly attributed to its impact on oxygen content of the matrix. Various microstructural features (such as granular, coralline-like, and particulate appearance) were observed depending on the layer thickness, laser power, and scanning speed. This was associated with various material combinations such as pure Al, Al-Fe intermetallics, and Al(-Fe) oxide phases formed afterin situreaction and laser rapid solidification. Uniformly distributed very fine particles could be consolidated in net-shape Al composite parts by using lower layer thickness, higher laser power, and lower scanning speed. The findings contribute to the new development of advanced net-shape manufacture of Al composites by combining SLM andin situreaction process.
Non-Darcy Mixed Convection in a Doubly Stratified Porous Medium with Soret-Dufour Effects
Authors: Srinivasacharya D. , Surender O.
Published: January 2014

This paper presents the nonsimilarity solutions for mixed convection heat and mass transfer along a semi-infinite vertical plate embedded in a doubly stratified fluid saturated porous medium in the presence of Soret and Dufour effects. The flow in the porous medium is described by employing the Darcy-Forchheimer based model. The nonlinear governing equations and their associated boundary conditions are initially cast into dimensionless forms and then solved numerically. The influence of pertinent parameters on dimensionless velocity, temperature, concentration, heat, and mass transfer in terms of the local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers is discussed and presented graphically.
Effects of Stress and MDMA on Hippocampal Gene Expression
Authors: Weber Georg F. , Johnson Bethann N. , Yamamoto Bryan K. , Gudelsky Gary A.
Published: January 2014

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) is a substituted amphetamine and popular drug of abuse. Its mood-enhancing short-term effects may prompt its consumption under stress. Clinical studies indicate that MDMA treatment may mitigate the symptoms of stress disorders such as posttraumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). On the other hand, repeated administration of MDMA results in persistent deficits in markers of serotonergic (5-HT) nerve terminals that have been viewed as indicative of 5-HT neurotoxicity. Exposure to chronic stress has been shown to augment MDMA-induced 5-HT neurotoxicity. Here, we examine the transcriptional responses in the hippocampus to MDMA treatment of control rats and rats exposed to chronic stress. MDMA altered the expression of genes that regulate unfolded protein binding, protein folding, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase activity, and neuropeptide signaling. In stressed rats, the gene expression profile in response to MDMA was altered to affect sensory processing and responses to tissue damage in nerve sheaths. Subsequent treatment with MDMA also markedly altered the genetic responses to stress such that the stress-induced downregulation of genes related to the circadian rhythm was reversed. The data support the view that MDMA-induced transcriptional responses accompany the persistent effects of this drug on neuronal structure/function. In addition, MDMA treatment alters the stress-induced transcriptional signature.
Individual Osmotic Fragility Distribution: A New Parameter for Determination of the Osmotic Properties of Human Red Blood Cells
Authors: Walski Tomasz , Chludzińska Ludmiła , Komorowska Małgorzata , Witkiewicz Wojciech
Published: January 2014

The aim of our experiments was to characterise and to validate the osmotic fragility test when applied to human blood samples with no significant alterations of osmotic fragility but with a differentiating shape of the haemolysis curve. All experiments were carried out on human erythrocytes taken from the Regional Centre of Blood Donation and Blood Therapy in Wrocław. The washed erythrocytes were exposed to near-infrared radiation (NIR) or ozonated, and the osmotic fragility test was applied. The osmotic fragility, calculated from the experimental haemolysis curve for the control and cells irradiated for 15 min, is the same within the empirical error. Calculation of the first derivative of the haemolysis curve allowed us to visualise the changes in osmotic fragility distribution after exposure to NIR. By contrast, significant changes both to the osmotic fragility value and the distribution of osmotic properties were observed after an erythrocytes ozonation procedure. Description of cell osmotic properties requires at least two parameters—the value of osmotic fragility and the slope of the haemolysis curve in the region where absorbance sharply increases due to cell haemolysis.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation of Unbalance Response in Vertical Test Rig with Tilting-Pad Bearings
Authors: Nässelqvist Mattias , Gustavsson Rolf , Aidanpää Jan-Olov
Published: January 2014

In vertically oriented machines with journal bearing, there are no predefined static radial loads, such as dead weight for horizontal rotor. Most of the commercial software is designed to calculate rotordynamic and bearing properties based on machines with a horizontally oriented rotor; that is, the bearing properties are calculated at a static eccentricity. For tilting-pad bearings, there are no existing analytical expressions for bearing parameters and the bearing parameters are dependent on eccentricity and load angle. The objective of this paper is to present a simplified method to perform numerical simulations on vertical rotors including bearing parameters. Instead of recalculating the bearing parameters in each time step polynomials are used to represent the bearing parameters for present eccentricities and load angles. Numerical results are compared with results from tests performed in a test rig. The test rig consists of two guide bearings and a midspan rotor. The guide bearings are 4-pad tilting-pad bearings. Shaft displacement and strains in the bearing bracket are measured to determine the test rig’s properties. The comparison between measurements and simulated results shows small deviations in absolute displacement and load levels, which can be expected due to difficulties in calculating exact bearing parameters.
Coverage of the Neurovascular Unit of the Fingertip Using a Reverse Homodigital Dorsal Flap
Authors: Perrotta Rosario E. , Stivala Alessio , Virzì Dario , Grella Roberto , Pagliara Domenico , Brongo Sergio
Published: January 2014

The exposure of bone, tendons, vessels, and nerves in a digital defect is one of the most frequent and severe problems to solve in hand surgery and current approaches are still disappointing. We show the use of an homodigital adipofascial flap taken from the same finger for covering the pulpar defect in a one-step surgical technique able to preserve the digital artery.
The Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Relationship with Serum Uric Acid Level in Uyghur Population
Authors: Cai Wen , Song Jiang-mei , Zhang Bei , Sun Yu-ping , Yao Hua , Zhang Yue-xin
Published: January 2014

Objective. To investigate the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the association of serum uric acid level with NAFLD in Uygur people, Xinjiang.Methods. A total of 2241 Uyghur persons (1214 males and 1027 females) were interviewed for physical checkups from 2011 to 2012. The clinical data of questionnaire survey, body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, blood lipid, and serum uric acid level were collected for analysis.Results. The prevalence rates of NAFLD determined by abdominal ultrasound examination and hyperuricemia were 43.9% and 8.4%, respectively. The persons with NAFLD had significantly higher serum uric acid levels than those without NAFLD (320 ± 88 versus 254 ± 80 μmol/L;P<0.001). The prevalence rate of NAFLD was significantly higher in subjects with hyperuricemia than that in those without hyperuricemia (78.19% versus 40.83%;P<0.001), and the prevalence rate increased with progressively higher serum uric acid levels (P<0.001). Multiple regression analysis showed that hyperuricemia was associated with an increased risk of NAFLD (odds ratio (OR): 2.628, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.608–4.294, andP<0.001).Conclusion.Serum uric acid level was significantly associated with NAFLD, and the prevalence rate of NAFLD increased with progressively higher serum uric acid levels.
Fulminant Mucormycosis Involving Paranasal Sinuses: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Garlapati Komali , Chavva Sunanda , Vaddeswarupu Rahul Marshal , Surampudi Jyotsna
Published: January 2014

Mucormycosis is an opportunistic fulminant fungal infection, which has the ability to cause significant morbidity and frequently mortality in the susceptible patient. Common predisposing factors include diabetes mellitus and immunosuppression. The infection begins in the nose and paranasal sinuses due to inhalation of fungal spores. The fungus invades the arteries leading to thrombosis that subsequently causes necrosis of the tissue. The infection can spread to orbital and intracranial structures either by direct invasion or through the blood vessels. Here we describe a case of mucormycosis of maxillary antrum extending to ethmoidal and frontal sinus and also causing necrosis of left maxilla in an uncontrolled diabetic individual to emphasize early diagnosis and treatment of this fatal fungal infection.
Neprilysin Is Poorly Expressed in the Prefrontal Cortex of Aged Dogs with Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Authors: Canudas Jesús , Insua Daniel , Sarasa Leticia , González-Martínez Ángela , Suárez María Luisa , Santamarina Germán , Pesini Pedro , Sarasa Manuel
Published: January 2014

Neprilysin (NEP) is the principal amyloidβ(Aβ) degrading peptidase; this activity may protect against Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most important age-related neurodegenerative process. The aim of this work was to analyze NEP mRNA expression in the frontal cortex of dogs with and without canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which is considered a natural model for AD. Expression of canine cerebral NEP mRNA was assessed by RT-PCR followed by qPCR in young, aged-cognitively unimpaired (CU), and aged-cognitively impaired (CI) dogs. On average, aged-CI dogs showed 80% (P<0.01) lower expression levels of NEP mRNA than their aged-CU counterparts. Furthermore, the standard deviation of the qPCR measurements was more than 6 times higher in the cognitively healthy animals (young and aged-CU) than in the aged-CI group. Another interesting find is the determination of a positive correlation between NEP expression and the number of cholinergic neurons in basal telencephalon, indicating a probable connection between both events in these types of neurodegeneration processes. These results suggest that high expression levels of NEP might be a protective factor for canine CDS and, most likely, for other Aβ-associated neurodegenerative diseases, such as AD.
Geometric Singularities of the Stokes Problem
Authors: Chorfi Nejmeddine
Published: January 2014

When the domain is a polygon ofℝ2, the solution of a partial differential equation is written as a sum of a regular part and a linear combination of singular functions. The purpose of this paper is to present explicitly the singular functions of Stokes problem. We prove the Kondratiev method in the case of the crack. We finish by giving some regularity results.
Effects of Aggregate Gradation on the Physical Properties of Semiflexible Pavement
Authors: Husain Nadiah Md. , Karim Mohamed Rehan , Mahmud Hilmi B. , Koting Suhana
Published: January 2014

Semiflexible pavement (SFP), a composite pavement, is formed by filling into a very open porous asphalt skeleton a specifically designed water consistency fluid mortar with a very high early and 28-day strength. The amalgamation of both components will produce a SFP where it will replace the conventional wearing course. The main goal of this investigation is to study the effect of various aggregate gradations towards producing SFP. These include determining the optimum binder, volumetric properties, and durability and strength of each aggregate gradation. The final results were statistically analyzed and two factor variance analyses (ANOVA) were performed to check on the significance at certain confidence limits. The results confirmed that different aggregate gradations significantly affect the properties mentioned.
System Reliability Evaluation of Data Transmission in Commercial Banks with Multiple Branches
Authors: Lin Yi-Kuei , Chou Hsien-Chang
Published: January 2014

The main purpose of this paper is to assess the system reliability of electronic transaction data transmissions made by commercial banks in terms of stochastic flow network. System reliability is defined as the probability of demand satisfaction and it can be used to measure quality of service. In this paper, we study the system reliability of data transmission from the headquarters of a commercial bank to its multiple branches. The network structure of the bank and the probability of successful data transmission are obtained through the collection of real data. The system reliability, calculated using the minimal path method and the recursive sum of disjoint products algorithm, provides banking managers with a view to comprehend the current state of the entire system. Besides, the system reliability can be used not only as a measurement of quality of service, but also an improvement reference of the system by adopting sensitivity analysis.
Effects of Using Silica Fume and Polycarboxylate-Type Superplasticizer on Physical Properties of Cementitious Grout Mixtures for Semiflexible Pavement Surfacing
Authors: Koting Suhana , Karim Mohamed Rehan , Mahmud Hilmi , Mashaan Nuha S. , Ibrahim Mohd Rasdan , Katman Herdayati , Husain Nadiah Md
Published: January 2014

Semi-flexible pavement surfacing is a composite pavement that utilizes the porous pavement structure of the flexible bituminous pavement, which is subsequently grouted with appropriate cementitious materials. This study aims to investigate the compressive strength, flexural strength, and workability performance of cementitious grout. The grout mixtures are designed to achieve high strength and maintain flow properties in order to allow the cement slurries to infiltrate easily through unfilled compacted skeletons. A paired-samplet-test was carried out to find out whether water/cement ratio, SP percentages, and use of silica fume influence the cementitious grout performance. The findings showed that the replacement of 5% silica fume with an adequate amount of superplasticizer and water/cement ratio was beneficial in improving the properties of the cementitious grout.