bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Pulmonary Artery Diameter on Chest Computed Tomography Can Predict Borderline Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Lange Tobias J. , Bornia Christian , Stiefel Jaroslava , Stroszczynski Christian , Arzt Michael , Pfeifer Michael , Hamer Okka W.
Published: July 2013

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) often leads to dilatation of the pulmonary artery (PA), which can be measured on chest computed tomography (CT). While the predictive capability of PA dilatation is useful to distinguish PH (mean PA pressure ≥25 mmHg) from normal (mean PA pressure ≤ 20 mmHg), CT characteristics of borderline PH (mean PA pressure 21–24 mmHg) have not been described. We aimed to investigate whether patients with borderline PH already show PA dilatation and to assess the diagnostic accuracy of PA dilatation for borderline PH diagnosis. Between April 2003 and September 2008, consecutive symptomatic patients with a mean PA pressure below 25 mmHg on right heart catheterization who had a chest CT available were retrospectively included. PA diameters from chest CT were correlated with hemodynamic measurements and analyzed with respect to their accuracy of predicting borderline PH. Main PA diameters were significantly larger in 26 patients with borderline PH compared with 52 patients without PH (3.16 ± 0.53 vs. 2.78 ± 0.43 cm, P = 0.001). The main PA diameter on CT correlated with mean PA pressure (r = 0.496, P< 0.001) and pulmonary vascular resistance (r = 0.445, P< 0.001), and predicted borderline PH with sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values of 77%, 62%, 84%, and 50%, respectively, using a cutoff ≥2.9 cm. This first systematic investigation of CT parameters in symptomatic patients with mean PA pressures less than 25 mmHg could show that, even in patients with borderline PH, significant PA dilatation can be present, which was related to PA pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance. This can be useful for identification of patients with borderline PH for further study and to prompt further diagnostic work‐up of possible underlying diseases.
Preclinical Pulmonary Capillary Endothelial Dysfunction is Present in Brain Dead Subjects
Authors: Glynos Constantinos , Athanasiou Chariclea , Kotanidou Anastasia , Korovesi Ioanna , Kaziani Katerina , Livaditi Olga , Dimopoulou Ioanna , Maniatis Nikolaos A. , Tsangaris Iraklis , Roussos Charis , Armaganidis Apostolos , Orfanos Stylianos E.
Published: July 2013

Pulmonary endothelium is a major metabolic organ affecting pulmonary and systemic vascular homeostasis. Brain death (BD)‐induced physiologic and metabolic derangements in donors' lungs, in the absence of overt lung pathology, may cause pulmonary dysfunction and compromise post‐transplant graft function. To explore the impact of BD on pulmonary endothelium, we estimated pulmonary capillary endothelium‐bound (PCEB)‐angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity, a direct and quantifiable index of pulmonary endothelial function, in eight brain‐dead patients and ten brain‐injured mechanically ventilated controls. No subject suffered from acute lung injury or any other overt lung pathology. Applying indicator‐dilution type techniques, we measured single‐pass transpulmonary percent metabolism (%M) and hydrolysis (v) of the synthetic, biologically inactive, and highly specific for ACE substrate 3H‐benzoyl‐Phe‐Ala‐Pro, under first order reaction conditions, and calculated lung functional capillary surface area (FCSA). Substrate %M (35 ± 6.8%) and v (0.49 ± 0.13) in BD patients were decreased as compared to controls (55.9 ± 4.9, P = 0.033 and 0.9 ± 0.15, P = 0.033, respectively), denoting decreased pulmonary endothelial enzyme activity at the capillary level; FCSA, a reflection of endothelial enzyme activity per vascular bed, was also decreased (BD patients: 1,563 ± 562 mL/min vs 4,235 ± 559 in controls; P = 0.003). We conclude that BD is associated with subtle pulmonary endothelial injury, expressed by decreased PCEB‐ACE activity. The applied indicator‐dilution type technique provides direct and quantifiable indices of pulmonary endothelial function at the bedside that may reveal the existence of preclinical lung pathology in potential lung donors.
On the Origin of Microparticles: From “Platelet Dust” to Mediators of Intercellular Communication
Authors: Hargett Leslie A. , Bauer Natalie N.
Published: July 2013

Microparticles are submicron vesicles shed from a variety of cells. Peter Wolf first identified microparticles in the midst of ongoing blood coagulation research in 1967 as a product of platelets. He termed them platelet dust. Although initially thought to be useless cellular trash, decades of research focused on the tiny vesicles have defined their roles as participators in coagulation, cellular signaling, vascular injury, and homeostasis. The purpose of this review is to highlight the science leading up to the discovery of microparticles, feature discoveries made by key contributors to the field of microparticle research, and discuss their positive and negative impact on the pulmonary circulation.
Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension: Medical Treatment
Authors: Ozsu Savas , Cınarka Halit
Published: July 2013

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is responsible for significant levels of morbidity and mortality. The estimated cumulative incidence of CTEPH is 2–4% among patients presenting with acute pulmonary thromboembolism. Currently, at the time of CTEPH diagnosis, 37.9% of the patients in an international registry were receiving at least one pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)‐targeted therapy. Advanced medical therapy is considered in patients with inoperable disease, as a bridge to pulmonary endarterectomy or in those with persistent or recurrent pulmonary hypertension. PAH‐specific medical therapies include endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and prostacyclin analogues. The present article will focus on recent developments in the pharmacological treatment of CTEPH.
Reproducibility of Intracardiac and Transpulmonary Biomarkers in the Evaluation of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Monahan Ken , Scott Theresa A. , Su Yan Ru , Lenneman Carrie G. , Zhao David X. , Robbins Ivan M. , Hemnes Anna R.
Published: July 2013

Intracardiac and transpulmonary levels of natriuretic peptides (NPs) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) provide insight into the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to left‐heart failure but have not been evaluated in established or suspected pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Demonstrating adequate reproducibility of these markers is an important precursor to further study. We hypothesized that the reproducibility of intracardiac and transpulmonary NPs and cGMP is similar to the reproducibility of these markers sampled from the peripheral venous circulation. In outpatients undergoing right‐heart catheterization for PH, blood samples were obtained from a peripheral venous site, superior vena cava, inferior vena cava, coronary sinus, pulmonary artery, and pulmonary capillary wedge position. At each site, a repeat sample was collected approximately 60 seconds after the initial measurement. Reproducibility was assessed using the slope of the regression line between initial and follow‐up levels. We enrolled 10 patients: Six had PAH, two had pulmonary venous hypertension, and two had normal pulmonary pressure. At all sites, the slopes of the regression lines for BNP were close to identity. BNP was generally more reproducible than NT‐pro‐BNP. For the NPs and cGMP, reproducibility at intracardiac and transpulmonary sites was similar to the peripheral venous site. Reproducibility of NPs was not influenced by PH severity, access site, or time between measurements. The two patients with the highest transpulmonary pressure gradients had high transpulmonary BNP uptake, but their transpulmonary cGMP gradients were negative. In patients evaluated for PH, reproducibility of NPs and cGMP at intracardiac and transpulmonary sites is high and is comparable to that of peripheral venous measurements.
A Case of Recurrent Pericardial Constriction Presenting with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Brunner Nathan W. , Ramachandran Krithika , Kudelko Kristina T. , Sung Yon K. , Spiekerkoetter Edda , Yang Phillip C. , Zamanian Roham T. , de Jesus Perez Vinicio
Published: July 2013

Chronic constrictive pericarditis (CP) is a relatively rare condition in which the pericardium becomes fibrotic and noncompliant, eventually resulting in heart failure due to impaired ventricular filling. The only curative treatment is pericardiectomy. Classically, CP does not usually cause severe pulmonary hypertension. When attempting to differentiate CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy, the presence of severely elevated pulmonary arterial pressure is used as a diagnostic criterion ruling against CP. We present a case of proven recurrent pericardial constriction following pericardiectomy presenting with severe pulmonary hypertension.
Assessment of hand mobility in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using a computer measurement station
Authors: Drużbicki Mariusz , Zwolińska Jolanta , Przysada Grzegorz , Maj Monika
Published: July 2013

Wstęp: Celem pracy była ocena sprawności ruchowej ręki (siły chwytu, objętości chwytu) u chorych z reumatoidalnym zapaleniem stawów (RZS) z wykorzystaniem obiektywnych metod pomiaru oraz ocena związku pomiędzy sprawnością ruchową ręki a stopniem niepełnosprawności badanych chorych. Dokonano też oceny wpływu aktywności procesu chorobowego, czasu trwania sztywności porannej i nasilenia dolegliwości bólowych na stan funkcjonalny ręki.

Materiał i metody: Badaniami objęto 56 chorych z rozpoznanym RZS leczonych na oddziale reumatologii. Oceniano aktywność procesu chorobowego wg wskaźnika DAS28 (Disease Activity Score), stopień niepełnosprawności wg kwestionariusza HAQ (Health Assessment

Questionnaire), nasilenie dolegliwości bólowych wg skali VAS oraz czas trwania sztywności porannej. Siłę ręki, objętość chwytu ręki oceniono za pomocą oryginalnego komputerowego stanowiska pomiarowego.

Wyniki: Wykazano istotnie wyższą wartość objętości chwytu i większą siłę chwytu ręki prawej w grupie kontrolnej w porównaniu z grupą badaną (p = 0,000). Stwierdzono też, że poziom nasilenia dolegliwości bólowych miał istotny statystycznie wpływ na sprawność ruchową badanej ręki (r = –57; p = 0,001). Nie wykazano istotnej zależności pomiędzy poziomem aktywności choroby mierzonej wskaźnikiem DAS28 a poziomem sprawności (siły chwytów) badanych rąk (r = –0,11). Stwierdzono natomiast istotną zależność pomiędzy poziomem funkcjonalnej niesprawności badanych chorych ocenianej wg kwestionariusza HAQ a parametrami sprawności rąk (r = –0,44).

Wnioski: W okresie zaostrzenia objawów RZS sprawność ruchowa ręki zależy przede wszystkim od nasilenia dolegliwości bólowych. Na poziom tej sprawności nie wpływa wiek badanych, czas trwania sztywno­ści porannej oraz stopień zaawansowania procesu chorobowego. Sprawność ręki (siła i objętość chwytu) istotnie determinuje poziom niepełnosprawności chorych na RZS.
Antinuclear antibodies – what to do with them?
Authors: Puszczewicz Mariusz
Published: July 2013

Rozpoznanie niemal wszystkich układowych zapalnych chorób tkanki łącznej wymaga wykazania obecności autoprzeciwciał. W praktyce klinicznej zwykle do tego celu wykorzystuje się ocenę obecności przeciwciał przeciwjądrowych (ANA).

W pracy przedstawiono znaczenie diagnostyczne i rokownicze przeciwciał przeciwjądrowych, aktualną propozycję nomenklatury ANA oraz ich znaczenia klinicznego, a także rzadkie typy fluorescencji jądra i cytoplazmy komórek HEp-2, których znaczenie diagnostyczne i kliniczne nie było dotychczas omawiane.
Peripheral nervous system in primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Smoleńska Żaneta , Bilińska Małgorzata , Kujawska-Danecka Hanna , Zdrojewski Zbigniew
Published: July 2013

Zespół Sjögrena jest układową autoimmunizacyjną chorobą, w przebiegu której dochodzi do uszkodzenia nie tylko gruczołów wydzielania zewnętrznego, lecz także innych narządów i tkanek. Zmiany w różnych odcinkach obwodowego układu nerwowego powodują powstanie wielu typów klinicznych neuropatii. Najczęściej spotykane neuropatie w pierwotnym zespole Sjögrena to: czuciowa dystalna symetryczna polineuropatia spowodowana degeneracją aksonów, czuciowa neuropatia z ataksją na skutek uszkodzenia neuronów zwojów korzeni rdzeniowych oraz bolesna dyzestezja wywołana zmianami w drobnych nerwach epidermalnych. W artykule opisano różnorodne objawy kliniczne wynikające z uszkodzenia obwodowego układu nerwowego w przebiegu pierwotnego zespołu Sjögrena, ze zwróceniem szczególnej uwagi na częstość ich występowania oraz różną patogenezę, leczenie i odmienne rokowanie.
Henoch-Schönlein purpura in an adult patient: a clinical case with dramatic presentation
Authors: Bujakowska Olga , Saracyn Marek , Kur-Zalewska Joanna , Tłustochowicz Witold
Published: July 2013

Plamica Schönleina-Henocha to zapalenie małych naczyń, które występuje głównie u dzieci i zwykle wiąże się u nich z dobrym rokowaniem. Znacznie rzadziej choroba występuje u dorosłych, u których często ma cięższy przebieg. W pracy przedstawiono przypadek 65-letniej pacjentki z plamicą Schönleina-Henocha o burzliwym przebiegu, z zajęciem przewodu pokarmowego oraz nerek, a także typowymi objawami skórnymi i stawowymi. U chorej stosowano leczenie glikokortykosteroidami, cyklofosfamidem, leczenie nerkozastępcze; konieczna okazała się również interwencja chirurgiczna. Pomimo zastosowanego złożonego leczenia stan chorej się pogarszał. Choroba zakończyła się zgonem pacjentki. Przedstawiony przypadek zwraca uwagę na możliwość wystąpienia i ciężkiego przebiegu zapalenia naczyń tego typu u pacjentów dorosłych.
Corrigendum to "Aerosol indirect effects from shipping emissions: sensitivity studies with the global aerosol-climate model ECHAM-HAM" published in Atmos. Chem. Phys., 12, 5985–6007, 2012
Authors: Peters K. , Stier P. , Quaas J. , Graßl H.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. An error in the calculation of the emitted number of primary sulfate particles for a given mass of emitted elementary sulfur has recently been identified in HAM, i.e. the aerosol module utilised in the ECHAM-HAM aerosol climate model. Correcting for this error substantially alters the estimates of top-of-atmosphere radiative forcing due to aerosol indirect effects from global shipping emissions (year 2000) as presented in Peters et al. (2012). Here, we shortly present these new results.
Marine boundary layer cloud regimes and POC formation in an LES coupled to a bulk aerosol scheme
Authors: Berner A. H. , Bretherton C. S. , Wood R. , Muhlbauer A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. A large-eddy simulation (LES) coupled to a new bulk aerosol scheme is used to study long-lived regimes of aerosol-boundary layer cloud-precipitation interaction and the development of pockets of open cells (POCs) in subtropical stratocumulus cloud layers. The aerosol scheme prognoses mass and number concentration of a single log-normal accumulation mode with surface and entrainment sources, evolving subject to processing of activated aerosol and scavenging of dry aerosol by cloud and rain. The LES with the aerosol scheme is applied to a range of steadily-forced simulations idealized from a well-observed POC case. The long-term system evolution is explored with extended two-dimensional simulations of up to 20 days, mostly with diurnally-averaged insolation. One three-dimensional two-day simulation confirms the initial development of the corresponding two-dimensional case. With weak mean subsidence, an initially aerosol-rich mixed layer deepens, the capping stratocumulus cloud slowly thickens and increasingly depletes aerosol via precipitation accretion, then the boundary layer transitions within a few hours into an open-cell regime with scattered precipitating cumuli, in which entrainment is much weaker. The inversion slowly collapses for several days until the cumulus clouds are too shallow to efficiently precipitate. Inversion cloud then reforms and radiatively drives renewed entrainment, allowing the boundary layer to deepen and become more aerosol-rich, until the stratocumulus layer thickens enough to undergo another cycle of open-cell formation. If mean subsidence is stronger, the stratocumulus never thickens enough to initiate drizzle and settles into a steady state. With lower initial aerosol concentrations, this system quickly transitions into open cells, collapses, and redevelops into a different steady state with a shallow, optically thin cloud layer. In these steady states, interstitial scavenging by cloud droplets is the main sink of aerosol number. The system is described in a reduced two-dimensional phase plane with inversion height and boundary-layer average aerosol concentrations as the state variables. Simulations with a full diurnal cycle show similar evolutions, except that open-cell formation is phase-locked into the early morning hours. The same steadily-forced modeling framework is applied to the development and evolution of a POC and the surrounding overcast boundary layer. An initial aerosol perturbation applied to a portion of the model domain leads that portion to transition into open-cell convection, forming a POC. Reduced entrainment in the POC induces a negative feedback between areal fraction covered by the POC and boundary layer depth changes. This stabilizes the system by controlling liquid water path and precipitation sinks of aerosol number in the overcast region, while also preventing boundary-layer collapse within the POC, allowing the POC and overcast to coexist indefinitely in a quasi-steady equilibrium.
The Lagrangian particle dispersion model FLEXPART-WRF version 3.0
Authors: Brioude J. , Arnold D. , Stohl A. , Cassiani M. , Morton D. , Seibert P. , Angevine W. , Evan S. , Dingwell A. , Fast J. D. , Easter R. C. , Pisso I. , Burkhart J. , Wotawa G.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The Lagrangian particle dispersion model FLEXPART was originally designed for calculating long-range and mesoscale dispersion of air pollutants from point sources, such as after an accident in a nuclear power plant. In the meantime FLEXPART has evolved into a comprehensive tool for atmospheric transport modeling and analysis at different scales. This multiscale need has encouraged new developments in FLEXPART. In this document, we present a FLEXPART version that works with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) mesoscale meteorological model. We explain how to run and present special options and features that differ from its predecessor versions. For instance, a novel turbulence scheme for the convective boundary layer has been included that considers both the skewness of turbulence in the vertical velocity as well as the vertical gradient in the air density. To our knowledge, FLEXPART is the first model for which such a scheme has been developed. On a more technical level, FLEXPART-WRF now offers effective parallelization and details on computational performance are presented here. FLEXPART-WRF output can either be in binary or Network Common Data Form (NetCDF) format with efficient data compression. In addition, test case data and the source code are provided to the reader as Supplement. This material and future developments will be accessible at http://www.flexpart.eu.
Constraining GRACE-derived cryosphere-attributed signal to irregularly shaped ice-covered areas
Authors: Colgan W. , Luthcke S. , Abdalati W. , Citterio M.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We use a Monte Carlo approach to invert a spherical harmonic representation of cryosphere-attributed mass change in order to infer the most likely underlying mass changes within irregularly shaped ice-covered areas at nominal 26 km resolution. By inverting a spherical harmonic representation through the incorporation of additional fractional ice coverage information, this approach seeks to eliminate signal leakage between non- and ice-covered areas. The spherical harmonic representation suggests a Greenland mass loss of 251 ± 25 Gt yr−1 over the December 2003 to December 2010 period. The inversion suggests 218 ± 20 Gt yr−1 was due to the ice sheet proper, and 34 ± 5 Gt yr−1 (or ~ 14%) was due to Greenland peripheral glaciers and ice caps (GrPGIC). This mass loss from GrPGIC exceeds that inferred from all ice masses on both Ellesmere and Devon Islands combined. This partition therefore highlights that GRACE-derived "Greenland" mass loss cannot be taken as synonymous with "Greenland ice sheet" mass loss when making comparisons with estimates of ice sheet mass balance derived from techniques that only sample the ice sheet proper.
Hipponosis: Introducing Hypnosis to Children
Authors: Thomson Linda
Published: July 2013

As a group, children are more responsive to hypnosis than adults are. Children are hypnotically talented because of their unique behavioral and developmental characteristics. Hypnosis cultivates imagination, and imaginative play is the work of childhood. In an emergency situation, very little explanation of hypnosis is needed. Creating a positive expectancy and the careful use of language is important. The article describes how the clinician, as the imagination coach, can introduce the concept of hypnosis to children. Young children may learn how a hippopotamus named Harry learned to use hypnosis to help himself with shots, a toothache, and anxiety and became a Hypno-potamus. For older children, hypnosis can be reframed as brain power exercises. A technique to engage cooperation and demonstrate the power of imagination to children is explained. The article also describes how to demonstrate experientially the mind-body connection: how thoughts and feelings can influence physiology. Teaching a child diaphragmatic breathing is an important first step in self-regulation. Harry Hypno-potamus imagination cards can be used to stimulate mental imagery, to teach breathing techniques and muscle relaxation, and most importantly, for ego-strengthening. Introducing hypnosis to children appeals to their quest for self-mastery, and teaching them hypnotic skills is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
Motor Control Recovery After a Severe Brain Injury: Applications of Quantitative Surface Electromyography
Authors: Bolek Jeffrey E. , Yost Jennifer
Published: July 2013

In this case study, surface electromyography (SEMG) was used to help a severely brain-damaged adolescent regain head control. In addition to relearning a lost motor skill, the patient, because of the extensiveness of the injury, had to overcome deficits in memory, visual processing, and cognitive tone. The process of quantitative SEMG was used to teach the patient to use a targeted series of muscles, which, in 14 weeks, brought her to the point that for many activities a headrest was no longer needed.
Education: BCIA's Core
Authors: Crawford Judy , Shaffer Fred
Published: July 2013

The mission of the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA) is to certify applicants who demonstrate entry-level knowledge and to progressively recertify them progressively as they expand their knowledge base and skill set through continuing education. BCIA requires accredited coursework to ensure the credibility of its credentials within the insurance and medical communities. Accreditation is provided by regional accrediting bodies, professional organizations, licensing boards, and BCIA itself. BCIA has developed flexible and inexpensive options for earning continuing education to better serve its North American and international audience.
The Physiologically Gifted Child
Authors: Lagos Leah M.
Published: July 2013

The Physiologically Gifted Child model proposes that sensitive children can turn their vulnerability to stress into strength through physiological training. When the child's sensitivity is viewed as a physiologically modifiable trait, the child is less likely to engage in self-blame and more likely to engage in self-care strategies to manage emotions. The author emphasizes that cardiovascular reactivity is significantly higher in a child with physiological giftedness. Because the physiologically gifted child is wired to react more intensely to stress, he or she is unlikely to be able to reduce sensitivity without addressing its physiological origin. The author proposes biofeedback and self-care activities as methods to reduce a physiologically gifted child's vulnerability to stress while simultaneously allowing the child to benefit from his or her extraordinary gifts of feeling and perceiving. A description of a physiologically gifted child and optimal performance strategies illustrate this concept.
Il catalano nella Corte Aragonese a Napoli riflesso in documenti bilingui della cancelleria di Ferrante. Uno studio storico-sociale
Authors: Venetz Gabriela
Published: July 2013

Riassunto: Nel presente lavoro viene analizzato il fenomeno del code switching in una prospettiva storico-sociale. In particolare, focalizzeremo la nostra attenzione su cinque lettere bilingui del Codice Aragonese (1458-1460), un registro cancelleresco della corte aragonese a Napoli, in cui si passa dal catalano o dal castigliano al napoletano e viceversa. Analizzando il contesto storico e sociale nel quale le lettere sono state scritte, proveremo a trarre delle conclusioni sulle motivazioni per cui si è realizzato il rispettivo cambio di codice linguistico. Nello stesso modo cercheremo di spiegare la tendenza di esprimersi in catalano in situazioni emozionali o di tensione politica, ma anche in contesti personali, per creare un’atmosfera di prossimità o di intimità.Parole chiave: Catalano, Napoletano, Sociolinguistica, Corte aragonese, Bilinguismo, Code switchingAbstract: This article is devoted to the phenomenon of code switching, related to a sociohistorical perspective. Particularly, we focuse on five bilingual documents of the Codice Aragonese, a codex from the chancellery of the Aragonese Crown at Naples in the 15th century. We analyze the historical and social context in which the letters have been written, in order to outline the motivation to change the linguistic code, this is, from the Catalan or Castilian language to the Neapolitan one, or vice versa. At the same time, we like to demonstrate the tendency of writing in Catalan in emotional situations or under strong political tension, but also in familiary contexts to create proximity and intimacy.Keywords: Catalan, Neapolitan, sociolinguistics, Catalan-Aragonese Crown, Bilingualism, Code switching
Les relacions epistolars de les ciutats de Barcelona, València i Palma entre els segles XVI i XVII (c. 1510 – c. 1630)
Authors: Baydal Sala Vicent
Published: July 2013

Resum: L’article analitza les epístoles enviades pels Consells municipals de Barcelona, Valènciai Palma entre els segles XVI i XVII, a través de l’estudi detallat de tres talls cronològics triennalsentre 1510 i 1629. En concret, s’hi atén comparativament a quatre factors: les raons que motivaren la tramesa de cartes per part dels governs urbans, el tipus de destinataris a les quals s’adreçaren, la xarxa de connexions territorials que el seu enviament ocasionà i les formes epistolars emprades pels escrivans en la seua confecció. Així, s’hi pot observar que, compartint una mateixa cultura epistolar, l’activitat de cada Consell fou ben diversa en funció del seu propi poder polític i la seua relació amb la monarquia.Paraules clau: Epístoles, Edat Moderna, Barcelona, València, PalmaAbstract: This paper examines the epistles sent by the City Councils of Barcelona, Valènciaand Palma between the 16th and 17th centuries through the detailed study of three triennialchronological sections between 1510 and 1629. Specifically, it deals comparatively with four issues:the reasons that motivated the letters, the type of addressees, the network of territorial connectionsestablished by the sending of the letters and the epistolary forms used by the scribes. It is observedthat, sharing the same epistolary culture, the activity of each Council was very diverse dependingon its own political power and its relationship with the monarchy.Keywords: Epistles, Early Modern Ages, Barcelona, Valencia, Palma
La sacralització del territori en l’oratòria del barroc valencià
Authors: López Quiles Antoni
Published: July 2013

Resum: El sermó barroc és una proposta de comprensió del món, el qual era considerat com un enigma a desxifrar. Per a donar explicació d’aquells enigmes, els predicadors desenvoluparan les homilies d’acord amb uns esquemes d’elaboració molt rígids que intenten donar resposta a la triple exigència que tenia la retòrica tradicional de docere, flectere et delectare, i que recolzen en tots els recursos literaris al seu abast. A partir de l’esforç d’explicar el món, l’orador àulic del barroc insistirà en la idea de sacralitzar els ambients vitals, tant el lloc com el temps. L’article dóna raó d’eixe intent sacralitzador de la vida, concretat, en aquest cas, a l’espai viscut.Paraules clau: Oratòria sagrada, Sermons, Barroc, Sacralització del territoriAbstract: The baroque sermon is a way of comprehension of the world, which was considered to be a enigma to deciphering. To give an explanation of those enigmas, the preachers will develop the homilies following very rigid schemes trying to give response to the triple exigency that the traditional rhetoric had of docere, flectere te delectare, and that they make it rest on all the literary resources to their reach. From the effort to explain the world, the baroque aulic speaker will insist on the idea of sanctifying vital environments, both the place and the time. The article gives an account of this sanctified attempt of the life, embodied in this case, in the lived space.Keywords: Sacred Oratory, Sermons, Baroque, Sanctify the territory
Ressenya a Katherine Walker-Meikle, Medieval cats, Londres, The British Library, 2011; i Katherine Walker-Meikle, Medieval pets, Woodbridge, Boydell and Brewer, 2012
Authors: Baydal Sala Vicent
Published: July 2013

Ressenya a Katherine Walker-Meikle, Medieval cats, Londres, The British Library, 2011, 89 pp. ISBN 978-0-7123-5818-7; i Katherine Walker-Meikle, Medieval pets, Woodbridge, Boydell and Brewer, 2012,
Ressenya a Abelard Saragossà. El valencià de Bernat i Baldoví. Del passat al futur. Ideologia i tast lèxic, Bromera, Alzira, 2009
Authors: Fuertes Zapata Joan Vicent
Published: July 2013

Ressenya a Abelard Saragossà. El valencià de Bernat i Baldoví. Del passat al futur. Ideologia i tast lèxic, Bromera, Alzira, 2009. ISBN 978.84.9824.652.0
Ressenya a Ricard Bellveser (coord.) Dones i literatura. Entre l’Edat Mitjana i el Renaixement, València, Institució Alfons el Magnànim, 2012, 2 vol.
Authors: Fenollosa Laguarda Carles
Published: July 2013

Ressenya a Ricard Bellveser (coord.) Dones i literatura. Entre l’Edat Mitjana i el Renaixement, València, Institució Alfons el Magnànim, 2012, 2 vol., 925 pp. ISBN 978-0-7822-623-8
Effect of Cardiovascular Training on Fitness and Perceived Disease Activity in People With Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Niedermann Karin , Sidelnikov Eduard , Muggli Claudia , Dagfinrud Hanne , Hermann Matthias , Tamborrini Giorgio , Ciurea Adrian , Bischoff‐Ferrari Heike
Published: July 2013

Objective

Several studies suggest that patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 12‐week, individually monitored, with moderate heart rate level intensity cardiovascular training on cardiovascular fitness and perceived disease activity in AS patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with AS according to the modified New York criteria were randomized to either cardiovascular training or attention control. The training group performed 3 cardiovascular training units per week. All participants attended 1 weekly usual care flexibility training session. Attention control contained regular discussion groups on coping strategies. Adherence was self‐monitored. Assessments were performed at baseline and after the intervention period of 3 months. Physical fitness was the primary end point, measured in watts using a submaximal bicycle test following the physical work capacity 75% protocol. All analyses controlled for sex, age, body mass index, baseline fitness and physical activity levels, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI).

Results

Of 106 AS patients enrolled, 40% were women and the mean ± SD age was 49 ± 12 years. A total of 74.6% of the training group reported exercising at least 3 times a week. At the 3‐month followup, the fitness level in the training group was significantly higher than in the control group (mean ± SE 90.32W ± 4.52W versus 109.84W ± 4.72W; P = 0.001), independent of other covariates. The mean BASDAI total score was 0.31 points lower (P = 0.31) in the training group, reaching significance for the peripheral pain subscore (1.19; P = 0.01) but not for back pain or fatigue.

Conclusion

Cardiovascular training, in addition to flexibility exercise, increased fitness in AS patients and reduced their peripheral pain.
Fabrication of Polysulfone/ZnO Membrane: Influence of ZnO Nanoparticles on Membrane Characteristics
Authors: Alhoshan Mansour , Alam Javed , Dass Lawrence Arockiasamy , Al‐Homaidi Nasser
Published: July 2013

A mixed matrix membrane consisting of a polysulfone and nano‐ZnO particles has been fabricated by a combination of solution dispersion blending and phase‐inversion method. The study is focused on the influence of ZnO on membrane morphology, surface roughness, and hydrophilicity, which were investigated through the methods of scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and contact angle meter, respectively. In addition, the changes in membrane characteristics with the addition nano‐ZnO particles were examined by pure water flux, water content and porosity, and salts rejection including NaCl and MgSO4. From the results, it was revealed that nano‐ZnO particles constructed a membrane having more hydrophilic, smooth, and tightly packed surface, which offered a high flux and an effective permeability barrier. Moreover, it was observed that nano‐ZnO particles produced spongy a membrane with uniform and well‐interconnecting pores. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Technol 2013, 32, 21369; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21369
Solvent inducing aggregates of perylene tetracarboxylic diimide in polymer backbone
Authors: Kong Fan , Tang Buwei , Zhang Xueqin , Lin Baoping , Qiu Teng
Published: July 2013

We have investigated the optical properties of a synthesized polymer containing perylene tetracarboxylic diimide (PDI) in different solvents. The structured absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the PDI in the polymer are sensitive to the solvents. The excited states with the PL peaks at 530 and 570 nm have the same PL excitation bands and life times, but the PL excitation band of the 625 nm excited states with long life time is different from the others. The PL bands with the peaks at 530 and 570 nm originate from the separated PDIs, whereas the 625 nm emission band is connected with the π–π stacked aggregates of the PDI in the polymer. The polymer chains become coiled to be favor of forming the π–π stacked aggregates of the PDI in weak polar solvent. The experimental results indicate that more π–π stacked aggregates are formed in tetrahydrofuran/ethanol blend solvents due to the collapsed polymer chains, but the PL intensity of the aggregates is precipitately decreased with the increase in the content of ethanol due to concentration quenching. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4113–4118, 2013
Preparation and adsorption properties of diethylenetriamine‐modified chitosan beads for acid dyes
Authors: Yan Yikai , Xiang Bo , Li Yijiu , Jia Qian
Published: July 2013

This work has demonstrated that the novel chitosan derivative, synthesized by phase transition and grafting diethylenetriamine, has a great potential for the adsorption of acid dyes from aqueous solutions. Four acid dyes with different molecular sizes and structures were used to investigate the adsorption performance of diethylenetriamine‐modified chitosan beads (CTSN‐beads). Results indicated that the adsorption of dyes on CTSN‐beads was largely dependent on the pH value and controlled by the electrostatic attraction. In addition, the adsorption rate (AO10 > AO7 > AR18 > AG25) and adsorption capacities (AO7 > AR18 > AO10 > AG25) were directly related to the molecular size of the dye and the amount of the sulfonate groups on the dye molecules. The equilibrium and kinetic data fitted well with the Langmuir–Freundlich and pseudo‐second‐order model. Furthermore, thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption processes occurred spontaneously and higher temperature made the adsorption easier. The reuse tests indicated that the CTSN‐beads can be recovered for multiple uses. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4090–4098, 2013
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Bis‐Imidazolidineiminothiones: A Comparative Study
Authors: El‐Sharief Marwa A. M. Sh. , Moussa Ziad , El‐Sharief Ahmed M. Sh.
Published: July 2013

A series of 15 novel symmetrical and non‐symmetrical bis‐imidazolidineiminothiones (6a–g, 7a–e, 8a,b, and 9) with various substituents at N‐(1) (p‐tolyl, p‐methoxyphenyl, p‐ethoxyphenyl, p‐chlorophenyl, p‐bromophenyl, p‐iodophenyl, and 3,5‐dichlorophenyl) and different linkers between the N‐(3) atoms [4,4′‐oxybis(4,1‐phenylene), 2,2′‐dimethoxybiphenyl, and (1,3,3‐trimethylcyclohexyl)methyl)] were prepared in 65–75% yields from substituted N‐arylcyanothioformanilides and various bis‐isocyanates. Screening for cytotoxicity against the HEPG2, HEP2, MCF7, and HCT116 tumor cell lines gave IC50 values ranging from 6.3 to 84.6 µM, where compounds 6b,d,e,g and 7a were markedly active against a least one cell line, underlining the matching effect of properly positioned substituents on N‐(1) and the appropriate N‐(3)‐N‐(3) linker. Likewise, all heterocyles were tested against microbial organisms (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Sarcina lutea, Bacillus pumilus, and Micrococcus luteus) and fungal strains (Candida albicans and Penicilium chrysogenum). Most compounds showed significant antibacterial and antifungal activities, reaching in certain cases the same level of antimicrobial activity as the standard antibacterial agent erythromycin and the antifungal agent metronidazole. The antimicrobial activity was further supported by quantitative assessment of susceptibilities of a selection of the preceding microorganisms using minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration techniques. Finally, the antiviral properties of all compounds were investigated against the viral strains HAV, HSV1, and CoxB4, where 6c,d,f and 7a,c,e were markedly active against one or two viral strains, reducing the virus plaque count of various viral strains by 66 to 88%. Structure activity relationship studies revealed several matching pairs of aromatic substituents on N‐(1) and the N‐(3)‐N‐(3) linkers, which could serve to optimize structural features for high activity to eventually render such compounds clinically useful drug agents.
Reviewing models of land availability and dynamics for biofuel crops in the United States and the European Union
Authors: Li Ruopu , di Virgilio Nicola , Guan Qingfeng , Feng Song , Richter Goetz M.
Published: July 2013

The biofuel‐related land use in the USA and the EU has significantly expanded during the last decade; models have been used to estimate land availability and demand in these regions. This paper provides an overview of different land‐use modeling practices applicable to first‐ and second‐generation biofuels. We review the importance of different land categories for biofuels, modeling approaches (top‐down/bottom‐up) and their integration, data availability for calibration and validation, model scale, and uncertainty. Possible future changes of biofuel land use and research gaps and limitations are synthesized. Key issues are the lack of data for independent validation and the need for better integration of dynamic bottom‐up models into the top‐down policy analysis. More research is needed to deal with the large‐scale introduction of second‐generation biofuel crops required. The paper culminates in describing how models can help to meet the challenge of supplying more fuel from lignocellulosic crops (LCC) in ways that reduce indirect land‐use change (iLUC) and how such transition could be implemented in policy and practice. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Comparative metabolic profiling revealed limitations in xylose‐fermenting yeast during co‐fermentation of glucose and xylose in the presence of inhibitors
Authors: Wang Xin , Jin Mingjie , Balan Venkatesh , Jones A. Daniel , Li Xia , Li Bing‐Zhi , Dale Bruce E. , Yuan Ying‐Jin
Published: July 2013

During lignocellulosic ethanol fermentation, yeasts are exposed to various lignocellulose‐derived inhibitors, which disrupt the efficiency of hexose and pentose co‐fermentation. To understand the metabolic response of fermentation microbes to these inhibitors, a comparative metabolomic investigation was performed on a xylose‐fermenting Saccharomyces cerevisiae 424A (LNH‐ST) and its parental strain 4124 with and without three typical inhibitors (furfural, acetic acid, and phenol). Three traits were uncovered according to fermentation results. First, the growth of strain 424A (LNH‐ST) was more sensitive to inhibitors than strain 4124. Through metabolomic analysis, the variance of trehalose, cadaverine, glutamate and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) suggested that strain 424A (LNH‐ST) had a lower capability to buffer redox changes caused by inhibitors. Second, lower ethanol yield in glucose and xylose co‐fermentation than glucose fermentation was observed in strain 424A (LNH‐ST), which was considered to be correlated with the generation of xylitol, as well as the reduced levels of lysine, glutamate, glycine and isoleucine in strain 424A (LNH‐ST). Accumulation of glycerol, galactinol and mannitol was also observed in strain 424A (LNH‐ST) during xylose fermentation. Third, xylose utilization of strain 424A (LNH‐ST) was more significantly disturbed by inhibitors than glucose utilization. Through the analysis of fermentation and metabolomic results, it was suggested that xylose catabolism and energy supply, rather than xylose uptake, were the limiting steps in xylose utilization in the presence of inhibitors. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2014;111: 152–164. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development and validation of a simple, sensitive and accurate LC‐MS/MS method for the determination of guanfacine, a selective α2A‐adrenergicreceptor agonist, in plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Li Xiaonan , Li Ning , Sun Xiaolin , Yang Wei , Dai Yu , Xu Jie , Zhang Wei , Wang Chunfeng , Wang Suilou , Chen Xijing
Published: July 2013

A simple, practical, accurate and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed and fully validated for the quantitation of guanfacine in beagle dog plasma. After protein precipitation by acetonitrile, the analytes were separated on a C18 chromatographic column by methanol and water containing 0.1% (v/v) formic acid with a gradient elution. The subsequent detection utilized a mass spectrometry under positive ion mode with multiple reaction monitoring of guanfacine and enalaprilat (internal standard) at m/z 246.2 → 159.0 and m/z 349.2 → 205.9, respectively. Good linearity was obtained over the concentration range of 0.1–20 ng/mL for guanfacine in dog plasma and the lower limit of quantification of this method was 0.1 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were <10.8% relative standard deviation with an accuracy of 92.9–108.4%. The matrix effects ranged from 89.4 to 100.7% and extraction recoveries were >90%. Stability studies showed that both analytes were stable during sample preparation and analysis. The established method was successfully applied to an in vivo pharmacokinetic study in beagle dogs after a single oral dose of 4 mg guanfacine extended‐release tablets. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anatomic description of the middle meatus and classification of the hiatus semilunaris into five types based upon morphological characteristics
Authors: Dahlstrom Kelly , Olinger Anthony
Published: July 2013

Anatomical variation of the lateral nasal wall, including the pathway from the frontal, ethmoidal, and maxillary sinuses may affect the communication between the paranasal sinuses and the nasal cavity. The middle meatus and hiatus semilunaris are areas where variations can occur which predispose patients to recurring sinusitis. Endoscopy allows for visualization of the entire nasal cavity, for both diagnostic and therapeutic uses. The purpose of this study was to provide an accurate characterization of the middle meatus and hiatus semilunaris for the purposes of endoscopic procedures. Ninety seven cadaveric lateral nasal walls were observed. The middle meatus was measured at three distinct points. Cranial length was also recorded. A 3D digitizer was used to record spatial relationships for the openings of the paranasal sinuses and the morphology of the hiatus semilunaris. The average widths for the middle meatus were 1.69‐mm anteriorly, 2.83 mm at the transition angle, and 4.74‐mm posteriorly. The posterior width was significantly larger than either of the two other measurements. The length of the hiatus semilunaris was found to be shorter on both left‐sides and in females. The hiatus semilunaris was categorized into five types according to the varying morphologies. Given that the middle meatus was significantly wider posteriorly, our findings support the recommendation that entering the middle meatus posteriorly may allow an endoscopic surgeon easier access to the structures of the lateral nasal wall. Knowing the discrepancy of hiatus semilunaris lengths between right and left sides and males versus females may guide advancement of endoscopic instruments into the nasal cavity. Describing the five distinct types of the hiatus semilunaris allows the distinction of normal variation in this anatomic space versus pathologic condition. Clin. Anat. 27:176–181, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vessel co‐option in primary human tumors and metastases: an obstacle to effective anti‐angiogenic treatment?
Authors: Donnem Tom , Hu Jiangting , Ferguson Mary , Adighibe Omanma , Snell Cameron , Harris Adrian L. , Gatter Kevin C. , Pezzella Francesco
Published: July 2013

Angiogenesis has been regarded as essential for tumor growth and progression. Studies of many human tumors, however, suggest that their microcirculation may be provided by nonsprouting vessels and that a variety of tumors can grow and metastasize without angiogenesis. Vessel co‐option, where tumor cells migrate along the preexisting vessels of the host organ, is regarded as an alternative tumor blood supply. Vessel co‐option may occur in many malignancies, but so far mostly reported in highly vascularized tissues such as brain, lung, and liver. In primary and metastatic lung cancer and liver metastasis from different primary origins, as much as 10–30% of the tumors are reported to use this alternative blood supply. In addition, vessel co‐option is introduced as a potential explanation of antiangiogenic drug resistance, although the impact of vessel co‐option in this clinical setting is still to be further explored. In this review we discuss tumor vessel co‐option with specific examples of vessel co‐option in primary and secondary tumors and a consideration of the clinical implications of this alternative tumor blood supply.