bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of men who have sex with men (MSM) who attend sex parties: results from a national online sample in the USA
Authors: Grov Christian , Rendina H Jonathon , Breslow Aaron S , Ventuneac Ana , Adelson Stephan , Parsons Jeffrey T
Published: September 2013

Objective

To compare three groups of men who have sex with men (MSM)—men who had attended a sex party in the past year (45.2%); men who had been to a sex party more than a year ago (23.3%); and men who had never been to one (31.5%)—on socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics.

Method

In spring 2012, 2063 sexually active MSM in the USA were recruited using banner advertising on a sexual networking website to complete an online survey about their sexual behaviour and attendance at sex parties.

Results

A significantly higher proportion of past year attendees were HIV-positive (28.1%), single (31.7%), demonstrated sexual compulsivity symptomology (39.2%), recently used drugs (67.8%), averaged the greatest number of recent male partners (Mdn=15, <90 days), and had greater instances of recent unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) with male partners (median=3, <90 days). Adjusting for covariates, those having been to a sex party in the last year were significantly more likely than others to report UAI. Free lubricant (93.4%) and condoms (81.0%) were the most desirable services/products men wanted at sex parties. More than half of men having been to a sex party expressed interest in free rapid HIV testing at sex parties (52.8%); however, few considered it acceptable to see ‘medical providers’ (11.7%) and ‘peer outreach workers’ (9.5%) at sex parties.

Conclusions

MSM who have attended a sex party in the last year are appropriate candidates for targeted HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention. Collaborating with event promoters presents valuable opportunities to provide condoms, lubricant and HIV/STI testing.
Surgical prep study guide
Authors: Brazier Jenny
Published: September 2013

Veterinary Surgical Preparation and Protocol. A Comprehensive Guide for Veterinary Students and Technicians Preparing and Recovering the Surgical Patient
The ingestion of protein with a maltodextrin and fructose beverage on substrate utilisation and exercise performance
Authors: Tarpey Michael D. , Roberts Justin D. , Kass Lindsy S. , Tarpey Richard J. , Roberts Michael G.
Published: September 2013

The study investigated the ingestion of maltodextrin, fructose, and protein on exogenous carbohydrate oxidation (CHOEXO) and exercise performance. Seven trained cyclists and (or) triathletes (maximal oxygen consumption, 59.20 ± 9.00 mL·kg−1·min−1) performed 3 exercise trials that consisted of 150 min of cycling at 50% maximal power output (160 ± 11 W), followed by a 60-km time trial. One of 3 beverages were randomly assigned during each trial and consumed at 15-min intervals: (i) 0.84 g·min−1 maltodextrin + 0.52 g·min−1 fructose + 0.34 g·min−1 protein (MD+F+P); (ii) 1.10 g·min−1 maltodextrin + 0.60 g·min−1 fructose (MD+F); or (iii) 1.70 g·min−1 maltodextrin (MD). CHOEXO and fuel utilisation were assessed via measurement of expired air 13C content and indirect calorimetry, respectively. Mean total CHO oxidation (CHOTOT) rates were 2.35 ± 0.18, 2.76 ± 0.08, and 2.61 ± 0.17 g·min−1 with MD, MD+F, and MD+F+P, respectively, although not significantly different. Peak CHOEXO rates with MD+F were significantly greater by 41.4% (p = 0.001) and 45.4% (p = 0.0001) compared with MD+F+P and MD, respectively (1.57 ± 0.22 g·min−1, 1.11 ± 0.08 g·min−1, and 1.08 ± 0.11 g·min−1, respectively). Performance times were 2.2% and 5.0% faster with MD+F compared with MD+F+P and MD, respectively; however, they were not statistically significant. Ingestion of an MD−fructose−protein commercial sports beverage significantly reduced peak and mean CHOEXO rates compared with MD+F, but did not significantly influence CHOTOT. The addition of protein to an MD+F beverage did not enhance performance times.
The effects of dietary fish oil on exercising skeletal muscle vascular and metabolic control in chronic heart failure rats
Authors: Holdsworth Clark T. , Copp Steven W. , Hirai Daniel M. , Ferguson Scott K. , Sims Gabrielle E. , Hageman Karen S. , Stebbins Charles L. , Poole David C. , Musch Timothy I.
Published: September 2013

Impaired vasomotor control in chronic heart failure (CHF) is due partly to decrements in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) mediated vasodilation. Exercising muscle blood flow (BF) is augmented with polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation via fish oil (FO) in healthy rats. We hypothesized that FO would augment exercising muscle BF in CHF rats via increased NO-bioavailability. Myocardial infarction (coronary artery ligation) induced CHF in Sprague–Dawley rats which were subsequently randomized to dietary FO (20% docosahexaenoic acid, 30% eicosapentaenoic acid, n = 15) or safflower oil (SO, 5%, n = 10) for 6–8 weeks. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood [lactate], and hindlimb muscles BF (radiolabeled microspheres) were determined at rest, during treadmill exercise (20 m·min−1, 5% incline) and exercise + NG-nitro-l-arginine-methyl-ester (l-NAME) (a nonspecific NOS inhibitor). FO did not change left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (SO: 14 ± 2; FO: 11 ± 1 mm Hg, p > 0.05). During exercise, MAP (SO: 128 ± 3; FO: 132 ± 3 mm Hg) and blood [lactate] (SO: 3.8 ± 0.4; FO: 4.6 ± 0.5 mmol·L−1) were not different (p > 0.05). Exercising hindlimb muscle BF was lower in FO than SO (SO: 120 ± 11; FO: 93 ± 4 mL·min−1·100 g−1, p < 0.05) but was not differentially affected by l-NAME. Specifically, 17 of 28 individual muscle BF’s were lower (p < 0.05) in FO demonstrating that PUFA supplementation with FO in CHF rats does not augment muscle BF during exercise but may lower metabolic cost.
Linking temporal changes in crayfish communities to environmental changes in boreal Shield lakes in south-central Ontario
Authors: Edwards Brie A. , Jackson Donald A. , Somers Keith M.
Published: September 2013

When aquatic ecosystems are among those most intensely affected by local and regional environmental change, it is crucial that stressors are identified to set priorities for future research and mitigation. Studies relating changes in important or sensitive assemblages to environmental changes provide a means to quantify potential stress on aquatic biota. Crayfish are ideal taxa for this type of study because they influence ecosystem structure and function and are sensitive to biotic and abiotic changes. We used historical and contemporary crayfish abundance and select environmental data for 100 inland lakes in central Ontario, to identify factors that are correlated with community membership and species distributions at each time and to elucidate environmental factors that can be directly linked to changes in relative abundance between the two time periods. Our results show that declines in lake calcium, invasions of warm-water centrarchids, and anthropogenic shoreline development have increased in their relative influence over time. These stressors may be affecting other freshwater biota directly, or indirectly through food web changes or altered abiotic interactions among the environmental changes.
THE EFFECTS OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT ON THE HOST COUNTRY'S ECONOMIC GROWTH: THEORY AND EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE
Authors: FORTE ROSA , MOURA RUI
Published: September 2013

Foreign direct investment (FDI) influences host country's economic growth through several channels. Empirically, a variety of studies considers that FDI generate economic growth but others conclude that FDI is a source of negative effects. By reviewing existing theoretical and empirical literature, we intend to shed light on the main explanations for the mixed results. The main conclusion is that the effects of FDI on economic growth depend on the domestic conditions of the host country (e.g., human capital, economic and technological conditions, degree of openness of its economy). Thus, the host countries governments have a key role in creating the conditions that allow for the leverage of the positive effects or for the reduction of the negative effects of FDI on the host country's economic growth.
MANIPULATING SCHRÖDINGER CAT STATE OF AN ISING CHAIN VIA QUANTUM TUNNELING EFFECT
Authors: ZANG CHUN-LI , YU JING , YANG WAN-LI , FENG MANG , KOU SU-PENG
Published: September 2013

We propose a possible way, theoretically, to manipulate a Schrödinger cat state of two degenerate ferromagnetic [FM] ground states of the transverse Ising model [TIM] using macroscopic quantum tunneling (MQT) effect. The MQT process is calculated based on a high-order degenerate perturbative method and can be understood in the language of individual virtual fermions hopping along the spin chain. We present an analytical description of the tunneling process, and discuss experimental feasibility for generating the Cat state in the linear ion trap.
Palaeogeographic and palaeoclimate factors of salinity fluctuations in the eastern part of the Late Permian (Zechstein) European Basin: case study from the salt basin in Poland
Authors: Czapowski Grzegorz , Tomassi-Morawiec Hanna
Published: September 2013

A study of the bromine content and facies in the salt successions (representing PZ1, PZ2 and PZ3 cycles) from the Late Permian (Zechstein) salt basin in Poland evidences fluctuations in mother brine concentrations. The study indicates that the local (better recorded in facies of the shallow basin and its margins) and regional changes were the result of Late Permian climate variations and eustatic sea-level rises and drops.

The observed trend for a lowering of brine concentration is attributed to more humid climate periods accompanied by frequent rainy seasons. Such a change from arid to more humid climatic conditions was observed in all three studied cycles, proving the variations of a dominant warm and dry climate, assumed for the inner part of the Pangea supercontinent in the Late Permian. The coastal zone of the Pangea supercontinent was more affected by the atmospheric perturbations, which were more frequent at the boundary between the continent and the ocean. The intracontinent areas were characterized with a more stable climate, thus interpreted by the authors, that the climate changes in the successions coming from the inner part of such intracontinental basin, far from the continent coasts (as the Polish part of the European Permian Basin) as the evidence for climate instability in the whole Zechstein period. The authors recorded the climate fluctuations in an area, which should be characterized with the most constant climate, particularly during the evaporite deposition. The prolonged more rainy periods that succeeded the warm and arid periods were recorded in the central part of the continent.

Eustatic sea-level fluctuations, responsible for large changes in brine concentrations, became independent from the climatic variations. Sea-level rises initiated huge marine water input and caused extreme refreshing of the bottom salt brine in deep-water basin parts. Two such events were registered in salts of the PZ1 cycle, and a further three in the evaporite succession of the PZ3 cycle. A single rapid drop in sea-level, resulting from a postulated tectonic close of the narrow North Atlantic seaway that conducted ocean water to the evaporite basin, was detected in the lower part of the PZ2 salt succession. This caused the evaporite basin cutoff, its successive desiccation and, consequently, the production of potash-bearing salts.
Upper Carboniferous–Lower Permian
Palaeoaplysina
build-ups on Svalbard: the influence of climate, salinity and sea-level
Authors: Hanken Nils-Martin , Nielsen Jesper Kresten
Published: September 2013

Upper Carboniferous–Lower Permian
Palaeoaplysina
build-ups on Svalbard developed on a partly restricted marine warm-water carbonate platform at low palaeo-latitudes. The
Palaeoaplysina
build-ups mostly have a flat-topped tabular geometry, representing the mature stage of build-up growth. With decreasing accommodation space, continued vertical growth was hampered and lateral growth became dominant. The tabular growth form of the build-ups is probably a result of lateral amalgamation of several minor mounds. In central Spitsbergen many of the tabular build-ups form parts of continuous ridges or ring-shaped to polygonal build-up complexes encircling a lagoon. Lateral interfingering between bedded fusulinid dolostones along the build-up margins and barren dolostones further out in the lagoon may indicate increasing salinity from the lagoon margin to the central part. These lateral facies changes are often associated with evaporites (gypsum) and low biodiversity, especially abundant euryhaline fusulinids or even barren beds. On the sea side of the
Palaeoaplysina
build-ups, the frequent renewal of normal saline seawater allowed the highest biodiversity (e.g. stenohaline crinoids). The uppermost part of some build-ups contain
Microcodium
, indicating intermittent subaerial exposure and vegetation cover during lowstand, probably caused by eustatic sea-level changes and/or local tectonics. The biota of the build-ups and their lateral sediments is typical for a shallow marine chloroforam association, indicating a tropical climate during deposition.
Carboniferous coarsening-upward and non-gradational cyclothems in the Lublin Basin (SE Poland): palaeoclimatic implications
Authors: Waksmundzka Maria I.
Published: September 2013

The paper presents the characteristics of profiles consisting of coarsening-upward and non-gradational cyclothems that correspond to parasequences in the Visean, Serpukhovian and Bashkirian sections of the Lublin Basin in SE Poland. The accompanying single fining-upward cyclothems are also described. Six types of cyclothems are distinguished. The most complete types of coarsening-upward cyclothems Ic, Id and incomplete IIc and IId have been identified. The least complete are non-gradational cyclothems IIIc and IIId. The cyclothems developed within the oscillating environments of shallow carbonate and clay shelf, and in shallow-water deltas. The lowstand systems tract (LST) deposits are composed of fining-upward cyclothems, rarely of coarsening-upward IId and non-gradational IIId. Within the transgressive systems tract (TST), type IIc is dominant, and the quantity of Ic and non-gradational cyclothem IIIc is moderate. The maximum flooding surface (MFS) usually occurs within coarsening-upward cyclothems IIc. The highstand systems tract (HST) consists of similar types of cyclothems as the TST, but their quantity is less. Relative sea-level fluctuations during the Carboniferous deposition in the Lublin Basin are associated with sea-level changes generated by glacial episodes in Gondwana. The relative sea-level fluctations also affected both erosional processes related to the successive relative sea-level lowstands and the formation of stratigraphic gaps. The influence of glacio-eustatic fluctuations was modified by local factors such as the supply of sedimentary material, subsidence rate and local tectonics.
Diversity-Dependence, Ecological Speciation, and the Role of Competition in Macroevolution
Authors: Rabosky Daniel L.
Published: September 2013

Variation in the rate of species diversification underlies many large-scale patterns in the organization of biological diversity. Here, I explore the phenomenon of diversity-dependent diversification and its contribution to differential species proliferation in time and space. Diversity-dependence can be a pattern of asymptotic diversity change through time as well as a process by which interspecific competition influences the dynamics of speciation and extinction. I review the evidence for diversity-dependence as revealed by phylogenies and fossils and discuss the close relationship between diversity-dependence and Darwin's proposed mechanism for the origin of species. An emerging body of research suggests that diversity-dependence contributes to the formation and persistence of incipient species and raises new questions about the meaning of ecological speciation. Diversity-dependence provides a conceptual framework for unifying biodiversity patterns across scales that vary by many orders of magnitude, from the dynamics of geographic range evolution to speciation and adaptive radiation.
Instabilities in Viscosity-Stratified Flow
Authors: Govindarajan Rama , Sahu Kirti Chandra
Published: September 2013

This review highlights the profound and unexpected ways in which viscosity varying in space and time can affect flow. The most striking manifestations are through alterations of flow stability, as established in model shear flows and industrial applications. Future studies are needed to address the important effect of viscosity stratification in such diverse environments as Earth's core, the Sun, blood vessels, and the re-entry of spacecraft.
Initiation of Meiotic Recombination: How and Where? Conservation and Specificities Among Eukaryotes
Authors: de Massy Bernard
Published: September 2013

Meiotic recombination is essential for fertility in most sexually reproducing species. This process also creates new combinations of alleles and has important consequences for genome evolution. Meiotic recombination is initiated by the formation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which are repaired by homologous recombination. DSBs are catalyzed by the evolutionarily conserved SPO11 protein, assisted by several other factors. Some of them are absolutely required, whereas others are needed only for full levels of DSB formation and may participate in the regulation of DSB timing and frequency as well as the coordination between DSB formation and repair. The sites where DSBs occur are not randomly distributed in the genome, and remarkably distinct strategies have emerged to control their localization in different species. Here, I review the recent advances in the components required for DSB formation and localization in the various model organisms in which these studies have been performed.
The Genomic and Cellular Foundations of Animal Origins
Authors: Richter Daniel J. , King Nicole
Published: September 2013

The first animals arose more than six hundred million years ago, yet they left little impression in the fossil record. Nonetheless, the cell biology and genome composition of the first animal, the Urmetazoan, can be reconstructed through the study of phylogenetically relevant living organisms. Comparisons among animals and their unicellular and colonial relatives reveal that the Urmetazoan likely possessed a layer of epithelium-like collar cells, preyed on bacteria, reproduced by sperm and egg, and developed through cell division, cell differentiation, and invagination. Although many genes involved in development, body patterning, immunity, and cell-type specification evolved in the animal stem lineage or after animal origins, several gene families critical for cell adhesion, signaling, and gene regulation predate the origin of animals. The ancestral functions of these and other genes may eventually be revealed through studies of gene and genome function in early-branching animals and their closest non-animal relatives.
Male Circumcision: A Globally Relevant but Under-Utilized Method for the Prevention of HIV and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections
Authors: Tobian Aaron A.R. , Kacker Seema , Quinn Thomas C.
Published: September 2013

Randomized trials have demonstrated that male circumcision (MC) reduces heterosexual acquisition of HIV, herpes simplex virus type 2, human papillomavirus (HPV), and genital ulcer disease among men, and it reduces HPV, genital ulcer disease, bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis among female partners. The pathophysiology behind these effects is multifactorial, relying on anatomic and cellular changes. MC is cost effective and potentially cost saving in both the United States and Africa. The World Health Organization and Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS proposed reaching 80% MC coverage in HIV endemic countries, but current rates fall far behind targets. Barriers to scale-up include supply-side and demand-side challenges. In the United States, neonatal MC rates are decreasing, but the American Academy of Pediatrics now recognizes the medical benefits of MC and supports insurance coverage. Although MC is a globally valuable tool to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, it is underutilized. Further research is needed to address barriers to MC uptake.
Pathogenesis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Wolters Paul J. , Collard Harold R. , Jones Kirk D.
Published: September 2013

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fibrosing interstitial lung disease associated with aging that is characterized by the histopathological pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia. Although an understanding of the pathogenesis of IPF is incomplete, recent advances delineating specific clinical and pathologic features of IPF have led to better definition of the molecular pathways that are pathologically activated in the disease. In this review we highlight several of these advances, with a focus on genetic predisposition to IPF and how genetic changes, which occur primarily in epithelial cells, lead to activation of profibrotic pathways in epithelial cells. We then discuss the pathologic changes within IPF fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix, and we conclude with a summary of how these profibrotic pathways may be interrelated.
Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Mavragani Clio P. , Moutsopoulos Haralampos M.
Published: September 2013

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that typically affects exocrine glands—mainly labial and lacrimal—leading to complaints of dry mouth and eyes. Given that periepithelial mononuclear cell infiltrates, both in exocrine glands and in other parenchymal organs (kidney, lung, and liver), are the histopathological disease hallmark, the term autoimmune epithelitis has been proposed. B cell hyperactivity is another cardinal SS feature manifested by the presence of autoantibodies and hypergammaglobulinemia, as well as clinical/serological phenotypes mediated by immune complexes, such as peripheral neuropathy, vasculitic lesions, and hypocomplementemia. These have been designated adverse predictors for lymphoma development in approximately 5% to 10% of patients. Activation of the type I interferon/B cell–activating factor axis in SS has recently attracted particular attention. Inappropriate overexpression of endogenous nucleic acids in a genetically susceptible individual might provide a plausible scenario for the immune activation observed in SS.
Oxytocin Pathways and the Evolution of Human Behavior
Authors: Carter C. Sue
Published: September 2013

This review examines the hypothesis that oxytocin pathways—which include the neuropeptide oxytocin, the related peptide vasopressin, and their receptors—are at the center of physiological and genetic systems that permitted the evolution of the human nervous system and allowed the expression of contemporary human sociality. Unique actions of oxytocin, including the facilitation of birth, lactation, maternal behavior, genetic regulation of the growth of the neocortex, and the maintenance of the blood supply to the cortex, may have been necessary for encephalization. Peptide-facilitated attachment also allows the extended periods of nurture necessary for the emergence of human intellectual development. In general, oxytocin acts to allow the high levels of social sensitivity and attunement necessary for human sociality and for rearing a human child. Under optimal conditions oxytocin may create an emotional sense of safety. Oxytocin dynamically moderates the autonomic nervous system, and effects of oxytocin on vagal pathways, as well as the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of this peptide, help to explain the pervasive adaptive consequences of social behavior for emotional and physical health.
Processing and Properties of Nanocrystalline CoCrFeNiCuAlTiXVMo (X=Zn,Mn) High Entropy Alloys by Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Fazakas É. , Varga B. , Varga L. K.
Published: September 2013

Fabrication of nanocrystalline equiatomic high entropy alloys is a crucial aspect for the product of many tools. The present study describes the synthesis of nanocrystalline equiatomic CoCrFeNiCuAlTiXVMo (X = Zn, Mn) high entropy alloys by mechanical alloying and their characterization by XRD and SEM. The CoCrFeNiCuAlTiXVMo (X = Zn, Mn) high entropy alloys have BCC solid solution with crystallite size less than 10 nm. These alloys are stable even after annealing at 600°C for 1 h. The hardness of the high entropy alloys is found to be 7.6 and 6.2 GPa, respectively.
Study on the Algorithm for Train Operation Adjustment Based on Ordinal Optimization
Authors: Chen Yong-jun , Yu Ji-an , Zhou Lei-shan , Tao Qing
Published: September 2013

It is a crucial and difficult problem in railway transportation dispatch mechanism to automatically compile train operation adjustment (TOA) plan with computer to ensure safe, fast, and punctual running of trains. Based on the proposed model of TOA under the conditions of railway network (RN), we take minimum travel time of train as objective function of optimization, and after fast preliminary evaluation calculation on it, we introduce the theory and method of ordinal optimization (OO) to solve it. This paper discusses in detail the implementation steps of OO algorithm. A practical calculation example of Datong-Qinhuangdao (hereinafter referred to as Da-Qin) heavy haul railway is performed with the proposed algorithm to prove that OO can ensure getting good enough solution with high probability. Particularly, for complex optimization problems with large amount of calculation, OO can greatly increase computational efficiency, and it can save at least one order of magnitude of calculation amount than general heuristic algorithm. Thus, the proposed algorithm can well satisfy the requirements in engineering.
A Case of Pulmonary Hamartoma Showing Rapid Growth
Authors: Itoga Masamichi , Kobayashi Yoshiki , Takeda Masahide , Moritoki Yuki , Tamaki Mami , Nakazawa Kenji , Sasaki Toru , Konno Hayato , Matsuzaki Ikuo , Ueki Shigeharu
Published: September 2013

A 65-year-old man was admitted for detailed examination of a growing nodular shadow in the left lung. The nodular shadow was initially detected in a routine chest X-ray check-up in March 2012 that warranted regular chest X-ray follow-up. The nodular shadow increased in size from 12 × 15 mm to 15 × 20 mm within five months. The calculated tumor doubling time (TDT) in our case was approximately 132.2 days. A malignant tumor was strongly suspected based on the rapid growth, and tumorectomy was thus performed. Cartilaginous tissue accounted for most of the pathological specimen, but a small amount of an epithelial component was observed histologically, and we diagnosed a hamartoma. Hamartoma generally shows slow annual growth, but it is important to recognize that rapid enlargement occurs in some cases.
Effect of Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation on Various Hematological and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Male Albino Mice following Neonatal Hypoxia‐Ischemia Encephalopathy
Authors: Iqbal Shahid , Nazir Nabia , Gillani Quratulane , Akbar Atif , Iqbal Furhan
Published: September 2013

Background. Present study was designed to report the effect of 2% creatine monohydrate supplementation for 8, 12 and 15 weeks on hematology and serum biochemical profile of male albino mouse following hypoxic ischemic insult on postnatal day 10. Methods. 66 Blood samples (2% creatine monohydrate supplemented (N = 34) and unsupplemented (N = 32)) were analyzed for various hematological (blood glucose, packed cell volume, total WBC count, total RBC count) and serum biochemical parameters (cholesterol, AST, ALT, HDL, LDL, total protein, triglycerides). Results. ALT had higher concentrations in mice feeding on normal diet for 8 (P > 0.01) and 12 weeks (P > 0.01) following asphyxia and in 12 weeks treatment without asphyxia (P = 0.006) when compared with the creatine supplemented mice. LDL (P = 0.011) and cholesterol (P > 0.01) had higher concentrations in mice on normal diet for 12 weeks following hypoxia ischemia. Cholesterol (P > 0.01) in 12 and glucose (P = 0.006) in 15 week treatment group had significantly lower concentrations in creatine supplemented male albino mice when compared with untreated group following hxpoic‐ischemic insult. Conclusion. We concluded that creatine supplementation following hypoxic ischemic insult helps in maintain the normal blood chemistry.
Probable Entropic Nature of Gravity in Ultraviolet and Infrared Limits—Part I: An Ultraviolet Case
Authors: Shalyt-Margolin A. E.
Published: September 2013

This work presents a study of the possibility for extending the well-known results of E. Verlinde concerning the entropic nature of gravity to the ultraviolet region (Planck’s energies) and also the derivation of quantum corrections to Einstein Equations.
Optical Properties and In Vitro Biological Studies of Oligonucleotide‐Modified Quantum Dots
Authors: Gérard Valérie A. , Freeley Mark , Defrancq Eric , Fedorov Anatoly V. , Gun’ko Yurii K.
Published: September 2013

Water‐soluble semiconducting nanocrystals or quantum dots (QDs) have attracted much interest in recent years due to their tuneable emission and potential applications in photonics and biological imaging. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) processes are very important for elucidating biochemical mechanisms in vitro, and QDs constitute an excellent substrate for this purpose. In this work, new oligonucleotide‐functionalised CdTe‐based QDs were prepared, characterised and biologically tested. These QDs demonstrated interesting optical properties as well as remarkable in vitro behaviour and potential for a range of biological applications.
A Posteriori Regularization Parameter Choice Rule for Truncation Method for Identifying the Unknown Source of the Poisson Equation
Authors: Li Xiao-Xiao , Li Dun-Gang
Published: September 2013

We consider the problem of determining an unknown source which depends only on one variable in two-dimensional Poisson equation. We prove a conditional stability for this problem. Moreover, we propose a truncation regularization method combined with an a posteriori regularization parameter choice rule to deal with this problem and give the corresponding convergence estimate. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of this method.
Severe Wound Infection withPhotobacterium damselaessp.damselaeandVibrio harveyi, following a Laceration Injury in Marine Environment: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hundenborn Jörg , Thurig Steffi , Kommerell Mechthild , Haag Heike , Nolte Oliver
Published: September 2013

Marine microorganisms are uncommon etiologies of skin and skin structure infections, that is, wound infections. We report a case of severe wound infection, caused by the marinePhotobacterium damselae(Vibrionaceae), in a 64-year-old male patient, returning from Australia. The isolate tested positive for pPHDD1, a plasmid conferring high-level virulence. Furthermore, the wound was coinfected withVibrio harveyi, a halophile bacterium, which has never been reported from human infections before. Identification was achieved by use of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption-Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and confirmed by 16S rDNA sequencing. Data retrieval from bibliography was complicated sinceP. damselaehas been renamed often with a number of synonyms present in the literature:Photobacterium damsela,Vibrio damselae,Vibrio damsela,Pasteurella damselae, andListonella damsela. With all synonyms used as query terms, a literature search provided less than 20 cases published worldwide. A majority of those cases presenting as severe wound infection are even fatal following progression into necrotizing fasciitis. Management with daily wound dressing and antibiotic therapy (ofloxacin empirically, followed by doxycycline after availability of microbiology) led in the reported case to a favorable outcome, which seems to be, however, the exception based on a review of the available literature.
Estimates of Inequality Indices Based on Simple Random, Ranked Set, and Systematic Sampling
Authors: Bansal Pooja , Arora Sangeeta , Mahajan Kalpana K.
Published: September 2013

Gini index, Bonferroni index, and Absolute Lorenz index are some popular indices of inequality showing different features of inequality measurement. In general simple random sampling procedure is commonly used to estimate the inequality indices and their related inference. The key condition that the samples must be drawn via simple random sampling procedure though makes calculations much simpler but this assumption is often violated in practice as the data does not always yield simple random sample. Nonsimple random samples like Ranked set sampling or stratified sampling are gaining popularity for estimating these indices. The purpose of the present paper is to compare the efficiency of simple random sample estimates of inequality indices with their nonsimple random counterparts. Monte Carlo simulation technique is applied to get the results for some specific distributions.
Psychopathology and Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Rotella Francesco , Lamanna Caterina , Dicembrini Ilaria , Faravelli Carlo , Calasso Caterina , Mannucci Edoardo
Published: September 2013

Aim. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) is used as an option in patients with diabetes failing to multiple daily injections (MDI). Psychological factors may play a relevant role in the failure to attain therapeutic goals in patients on MDI. This could lead to an overrepresentation of psychopathology in patients treated with CSII.
Methods. A consecutive series of 100 patients with type 1 diabetes was studied, collecting main clinical parameters and assessing psychopathology with the self‐reported questionnaire Symptom Checklist 90‐revised. Patients on CSII were then compared with those on MDI. Results. Of the 100 enrolled patients, 44 and 56 were on CSII and MDI, respectively. Among men, those on CSII were younger than those on MDI; conversely, no difference in age was observed in women. Women on CSII showed higher scores on most Symptom Checklist 90 subscales than those on MDI, whereas no differences were observed in men.
Conclusion. Women with type 1 diabetes treated with CSII display higher levels of psychopathology than those on MDI. This is probably the consequence of the fact that patients selected for CSII are those failing to MDI. Higher levels of psychopathology could represent a limit for the attainment and maintenance of therapeutic goals with CSII.
Changes in Serum Levels of Bone Morphogenic Protein 4 and Inflammatory Cytokines after Bariatric Surgery in Severely Obese Korean Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Kim Mee Kyoung , Jang Eun-Hee , Hong Oak-Kee , Chun Hyun-Ji , Yoo Soon-Jib , Baek Ki-Hyun , Kim Wook , Kim Eung Kook , Song Ki-Ho , Kwon Hyuk-Sang
Published: September 2013

Serum bone morphogenic protein- (BMP-) 4 levels are associated with human adiposity. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in serum levels of BMP-4 and inflammatory cytokines after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Fifty-seven patients with type 2 diabetes underwent RYGB. Serum levels of BMP-4 and various inflammatory markers, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), free fatty acids (FFAs), and plasminogen activator inhibitor- (PAI-) 1, were measured before and 12 months after RYGB. Remission was defined as glycated hemoglobin <6.5% for at least 1 year in the absence of medications. Levels of PAI-1, hsCRP, and FFAs were significantly decreased at 1 year after RYGB. BMP-4 levels were also significantly lower at 1 year after RYGB than at baseline (P=0.024). Of the 57 patients, 40 (70%) had diabetes remission at 1 year after surgery (remission group). Compared with patients in the nonremission group, patients in the remission group had lower PAI-1 levels and smaller visceral fat areas at baseline. There was a difference in the change in the BMP-4 level according to remission status. Our data demonstrate a significant beneficial effect of bariatric surgery on established cardiovascular risk factors and a reduction in chronic nonspecific inflammation after surgery.
Nucleophilicity Index Based on Atomic Natural Orbitals
Authors: Szczepanik Dariusz W. , Mrozek Janusz
Published: September 2013

A simple method of evaluating a semilocal (regional) nucleophilicity is introduced. The concept involves use of the natural orbitals for atomic populations to identify the most “reactive population” of electrons on particular atom in molecule. The results of test calculations considering the regioselectivity problem in electrophilic aromatic substitution to the benzene derivatives are presented and briefly discussed.
Hyaluronic Acid Derived from Other Streptococci SupportsStreptococcus pneumoniae In VitroBiofilm Formation
Authors: Yadav Mukesh Kumar , Chae Sung-Won , Park Kyeongsoon , Song Jae-Jun
Published: September 2013

We investigate the role of hyaluronic acid (HA) onS. pneumoniae in vitrobiofilm formation and evaluate gene expressions of virulence and/or biofilm related genes. Biofilms were grown in medium supplied with HA derived from capsule ofStreptococcus equi. The biomasses of biofilms were detected by crystal-violet (CV) microtiter plate assay, and the morphology was viewed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). The gene expressions were assessed by relative quantitative RT-PCR. The results showed that the HA support pneumococcal growth in planktonic form and within biofilms. The CV-microtiter plate assay detected significantly increased biofilm growth in medium containing HA. The SEM analysis revealed thick and organized biofilms in positive control and HA supplemented medium. ThenanA,nanB,bgaA,strH,luxS,hysA,ugl, and PST-EIIA encoding genes were significantly upregulated in the planktonic cells grown in presence of HA, while thelytAandcomAgenes were downregulated. Similarly theluxS,hysA,ugl, and PST-EIIA encoding genes were significantly upregulated by more than 2-folds in HA biofilms. The results of this study indicate that the HA derived from capsule ofS. equisupports pneumococcal growth in planktonic state and within biofilms and upregulated virulence and biofilm related genes.
Age Predicts Functional Outcome in Acute Stroke Patients with rt-PA Treatment
Authors: Chindaprasirt Jarin , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak , Chattakul Paiboon , Limpawattana Panita , Tiamkao Somsak , Aountri Patcharin , Chotmongkol Verajit
Published: September 2013

The standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke is thrombolytic therapy. There is limited data on prognostic factors of acute stroke with thrombolytic therapy particularly in Asian population. Acute ischemic stroke patients who were treated with thrombolytic therapy at Srinagarind Hospital between May 2008 and July 2010 were included. Factors associated with Barthel index more than 80 were studied by multiple logistic regression analysis. There were 75 patients included in the study. The mean NIHSS scores before treatment and at 3 months were 9.16 ± 4.82 and 3.83 ± 4.00, respectively, and median Barthel index at 3 months was 86. Only significant predictor for having Barthel index more than 80 points at 3 months was age (adjusted odds ratio 0.929, 95% confidence interval 0.874, 0.988). Four patients developed intracranial hemorrhage after the treatment (5%), and two died (2.6%). In conclusion, age predicts Barthel index in acute stroke patients with rt-PA treatment.
Proximal Aortic Stiffness Is Increased in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Activity in Children and Adolescents
Authors: El Gamal Yehia Mohamad , Elmasry Ola Abd Elaziz , El Hadidi Iman Saleh , Soliman Ola Kamel
Published: September 2013

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are prone to premature atherosclerosis and are at risk for the development of cardiovascular disease. Increased arterial stiffness is emerging as a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis.Purpose. To measure proximal aortic stiffness in children and adolescents with SLE.Methods. We studied 16 patients with SLE in activity (mean age15±2.42years; 16 females), 14 patients with SLE not in activity (mean age15.7±1.89years; 4 males, 10 females), and 16 age- and sex-comparable healthy children and adolescents (15.5±1.71years; 4 males, 12 females). Disease activity was determined by the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI). All subjects underwent echocardiography for assessment of proximal aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) [Ao distance/Ao wave transit time in the aortic arch]. Venous blood samples were collected for ESR.Results. Patients in activity had significantly higher PWV values than controls (P<0.05), while no significant difference was found between patients not in activity and controls.Conclusions. SLE patients with disease activity demonstrate increased PWV and arterial stiffness of the proximal aorta, while patients without disease activity do not. This suggests that inflammation secondary to SLE activity, and not subclinical atherosclerosis, is the major underlying cause for increased arterial stiffness in this age group.
Analgesic Activity of a Glucan Polysaccharide Isolated from Agaricus blazei Murill
Authors: Gonzaga Maria Leônia C. , Menezes Thiago M. F. , de Souza José R. R. , Ricardo Nágila M. P. S. , Freitas Ana L. P. , Soares Sandra de A.
Published: September 2013

A water soluble polysaccharide and its selective precipitated fractions (F1, F2, and F3) were isolated from hot water extract of fruiting bodies of Agaricus blazei Murril known as Agaricus brasiliensis to evaluate the analgesic activity of the materials in Swiss mice. The isolated material and its fractions were characterized by two-dimensional COSY and HMQC spectra as β-(1→6)-α-(1→4)-glucan-bound-protein polysaccharide constituted mainly by β-(1→6) glucan. The glucan-protein polysaccharide and its fractions were analyzed in relation to the protein, carbohydrate, and mineral elements contents. The analysis of the glucan-protein complex revealed a total carbohydrate content of 36.95% and protein conjugated content of 17.24%. The mineral elements found in larger proportion were K, Na, Ca, P, and Zn. The analgesic activity bioassay of the β-(1→6)-α-(1→4)-glucan bound-protein polysaccharide and its fractions in Swiss mice indicated a significant effect.
P53 and Expression of Immunological Markers May Identify Early Stage Thyroid Tumors
Authors: Marcello Marjory Alana , Morari Elaine Cristina , Cunha Lucas Leite , De Nadai Silva Aline Carolina , Carraro Dirce Maria , Carvalho André Lopes , Soares Fernando Augusto , Vassallo José , Ward Laura Sterian
Published: September 2013

Background. Besides its major role in cell proliferation, DNA repair, and apoptosis, functional p53 protein is involved in the induction of antitumor cytotoxic-T-cell activity against carcinoma cells. We aimed to investigate p53 and immune cell markers utility as diagnostic and prognostic markers of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC).Methods. ACIS-III system was used to evaluate p53 and immune cell markers including tumor-associated macrophages (TAM); CD68 and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) subsets such as CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD20 in 206 thyroid carcinomas, 105 benign nodules, and 18 normal tissues. Also,TP53was sequenced in 78 out of 164 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma.Results. P53 expression was observed more frequently in malignant than in benign lesions (P<0.0001) and helped discriminate follicular patterned lesions. In addition, p53 was more frequent in smaller (P=0.0015), unique tumors (P=0.0286), with thyroiditis (P=0.0486) and without metastasis at diagnosis (P=0.0201). TAM was more frequent in P53 negative tumors (P=0.002). Infiltration of CD8+ TIL was found in 61.7% of P53 positive and 25.6% of P53 negative DTC (P<0.001).Conclusions. We suggest that p53 and CD8+ TIL immune profile analysis might be useful in DTC.
Rapunzel Syndrome: A Rare Postpartum Case
Authors: Tegene Teshome , Foda Yahia , Hussain Omar , Oloniyo Kolawole , Ha Ngoc-Tram , Manikonda Geeta
Published: September 2013

The Rapunzel syndrome describes a disorder in which a significant amount of hair is swallowed, forming a trichobezoar that extends past the stomach into the small intestines. Given the indigestible nature of hair, it subsequently leads to obstruction within the gastrointestinal system. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms of gastrointestinal obstruction, including abdominal complaints such as pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, due to its broad and nonspecific presenting symptoms, the diagnosis of Rapunzel syndrome warrants consideration once other common etiologies have been excluded. Surgical intervention is often required to remove the abdominal mass. This unusual syndrome is often associated with psychiatric disorders, affecting young women most commonly. In this report, we will discuss a unique case of Rapunzel syndrome in a one-month postpartum woman.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung with Metastasis to the GI Tract Associated with EGFR Exon 19 Deletion
Authors: Weiss Glen J. , Liman Agnes K. , Allen Jeffrey , Cheung Philip Y. , Kukunoor Rajesh N.
Published: September 2013

We describe three confirmed cases of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the lung with metastasis to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, with two having epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions in all available specimens. One of these patients received EGFR tyrosine kinase directed therapy for a brief period with some symptom relief. Consideration of EGFR exon 19 mutation testing in SCC of the lung, particularly for those with GI tract metastasis, may identify this potentially drug-targetable entity.
Seroprevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiin Dairy Cattle with Reproductive Problems in Sudan
Authors: Elfahal Abdelghafar M. , Elhassan Amira M. , Hussien Mohammed O. , Enan Khalid A. , Musa Azza B. , El Hussein Abdelrahim M.
Published: September 2013

Toxoplasmosis, caused byToxoplasma gondii, is one of the most common parasitic infections of humans and other warm-blooded animals in most parts of the world. The disease is common among sheep and goats and it is recognized as one of the major causes of reproductive failure in these animals. Cattle, on the other hand, can be infected, but abortion or perinatal mortality has not been recorded. This survey was carried out to study the prevalence of this disease in cattle in Khartoum and Gazira States (Sudan). 181 sera samples collected from dairy cattle with reproductive problems were assayed for antibodies toT. gondiiby ELISA. The prevalence rate ofT. gondiiantibodies in cattle at herd level was 44.8% (13/29). Herd level infection rates were 50% and 33.3% in Khartoum and Gazira States, respectively. The overall prevalence ofT. gondiiat individual level in both states was 13.3% (24/181). The prevalence was 12.7% (17/134), was 14.9% (7/47) in Khartoum and Gazira State, respectively. There was significantly higher (P<0.05) prevalence ofT. gondiiantibodies in the age group less than one year old (36.4%) than in other age groups and in males (30.8%) than in females (11.9%) while no significant relationship was discerned regarding breed, location, season, or signs of reproductive disease.
Partitioning Behavior of Papain in Ionic Liquids‐Based Aqueous Two‐Phase Systems
Authors: Bai Zhiwen , Chao Yanhong , Zhang Meiling , Han Changri , Zhu Wenshuai , Chang Yonghui , Li Huaming , Sun Yang
Published: September 2013

This paper attempts to study and optimize the affinity partitioning conditions of papain in an aqueous two‐phase system (ATPS).
The effect of the amount of ionic liquids (ILs), the concentration of K2HPO4,
temperature, pH, and the volume of papain solution were discussed concretely.
The optimum conditions were determined as ionic liquid was 1.4 g and K2HPO4 was
1.4 g, the extraction efficiency of papain could reach 98.33% with pH unadjusted.
The temperature and the pH of the solution are major parameters that influence the partitioning of protein in ILs‐based ATPSs.
The partition of papain to the IL‐rich phase was enhanced by increasing the amount of ILs, the concentration of K2HPO4,
and temperature, especially at its isoelectric point.