bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of enhanced photocatalytic activities on tungsten trioxide doped with sulfur: Dopant-type effects
Authors: Li Dan , Huang Wei-Qing , Xie Zhong , Xu Liang , Yang Yin-Cai , Hu Wangyu , Huang Gui-Fang
Published: September 2016

The enhanced photocatalytic activity of tungsten trioxide (WO3) has been observed experimentally via doping with S element as different dopant types. Herein, a comparative study on the effect of different types of S dopant and native vacancy defects on the electronic structure and optical properties of WO3 is presented by using hybrid Heyd–Scuseria–Ernzerhof 2006 (HSE06) density functional methods. Six possible models (S[Formula: see text]–WO3, S[Formula: see text]–WO3, V[Formula: see text]–WO3, V[Formula: see text]–WO3, S[Formula: see text] + V[Formula: see text]–WO3 and S[Formula: see text] + V[Formula: see text]–WO3) based on WO3 are tentatively put forward. It is found that cationic S doping (the substitution of W by S) is more favorable than anionic S doping (replacing O with S), and both cases become easier to form as native vacancy defect is accompanied. The electronic structures of doped WO3 depend on the type of dopant: anionic S doping results into three isolated levels in the upper part of valence band, while cationic S doping only induces an effective band gap reduction, which is critical for efficient light-to-current conversion. Interestingly, the isolated states near gap of WO3 would appear as long as native vacancy defects exist. The introduced levels or reduced band gaps make the systems responsed to the visible light, even further to a range of 400–700 nm. These findings can rationalize the available experimental results and pave the way for developing WO3-based photocatalysts.
Volume and determinant densities of hyperbolic rational links
Authors: Adams Colin , Kastner Alexander , Calderon Aaron , Jiang Xinyi , Kehne Gregory , Mayer Nathaniel , Smith Mia
Published: September 2016

The volume density of a hyperbolic link is defined as the ratio of hyperbolic volume to crossing number. We study its properties and a closely-related invariant called the determinant density. It is known that the sets of volume densities and determinant densities of links are dense in the interval [Formula: see text]. We construct sequences of alternating knots whose volume and determinant densities both converge to any [Formula: see text]. We also investigate the distributions of volume and determinant densities for hyperbolic rational links, and establish upper bounds and density results for these invariants.
On the unknotting number of a welded knot
Authors: Li Zhiguo , Lei Fengchun , Wu Jie
Published: September 2016

The unknotting number of a welded knot is considered. First, we obtain an upper-bound of the unknotting number of a welded knot by using the warping degree method. Further, we introduce a standard welded torus knot with welded datum and obtain an upper bound of the unknotting number by an algorithm with warping degree method. Secondly, we get a lower bound of the unknotting number of a welded knot by Alexander quandle colorings. Finally, we give a definition of Gordian distance for welded knots analogous to the classical case.
Spectrum estimation with missing values: A regularized nuclear norm minimization approach
Authors: Akçay Hüseyin , Türkay Semiha
Published: September 2016

In this paper, we consider estimation of a power spectrum from noise corrupted spectrum samples on uniform grids of frequencies with missing values. We propose two schemes based on the regularized nuclear norm minimization in combination with a recent subspace identification algorithm. The proposed schemes estimate the model order and the missing spectrum values in one step and are robust to large amplitude noise over short data records. Although this estimation problem can be cast as a spectrum estimation problem from nonuniformly spaced measurements and the algorithms developed for this type of data can be used, the identification example of this paper shows that the incomplete data formulation yields more accurate results. The properties of one of the proposed schemes are illustrated in an application example concerned with low-pass modeling of transformer current.
Stochastic Multi-Scale Finite Element Analysis of the Drilling Force of Trabecular Bone During Oral Implant Surgery
Authors: Tawara Daisuke , Takano Naoki , Kinoshita Hideaki , Matsunaga Satoru , Abe Shinichi
Published: September 2016

To avoid procedural accidents during/after oral implant surgery in a jawbone (e.g., perforation of the lingual side due to an inadequate drilling angle or scratching the mandibular canal), it is important for dentists to develop skilled drilling techniques. We have developed a stochastic multi-scale prediction of apparent elastic moduli of the jawbone with modified first-order perturbation-based stochastic homogenization in which individual differences of drilling properties relating to bone quality can be evaluated with a force-sensitive device. To establish drilling properties in various types of jawbone and the perforation case, and for drill diameters, we propose an original computational method that avoids procedural accidents by defining the drilling angle as a parameter and quantifying individual differences and the inner distribution of bone quality in several jawbones as a drilling force. Three samples demonstrated that drilling forces changed depending on the trabecular structure, with the drilling force changing little around the mandibular canal and increasing just before perforation. Drilling force also depended on the drill diameter but did not always match its size. Estimated drilling forces of the expected value and 50% and 90% probability results suggested prominent differences in drilling properties. This information enables dentists to develop a skillful surgical technique.
Effects of the Length Scale Parameter on the Thermoelastic Damping of a Microbeam Considering the Couple Stress Theory
Authors: Fathalilou Mohammad , Rezazadeh Ghader
Published: September 2016

This paper studies the thermoelastic damping in microbeams considering the couple stress theory with microstructure. This theory includes the microinertia effects, coming from the kinetic energy due to the velocity gradient through the differential macroelements. A Galerkin-based reduced order model and complex frequency approach have been used to determine the quality factor. For a gold microbeam as a case study, the obtained results for different ambient temperatures, beam lengths and thicknesses are compared to those obtained using the classic theory of elasticity. The comparison has been made for different values of the length scale parameter. The effects of the microinertia term on the magnitude of the thermoelastic damping have also been investigated and shown that for which conditions these effects are significant.
2014 Warmest Year in Modern Record: Climate Monitoring and Its Possible Cause
Authors: ZHOU Bing , NIE Yu , WANG Pengling
Published: September 2016

Global warming and increasing extreme weather events are two important facts under climate change. In 2014, the global average surface temperature surged to a new high, ranking as the Earth’s warmest year since 1850. Using the observational datasets of land surface temperature, sea-surface temperature (SST), ocean heat content, precipitation, sea ice extent, etc. from 1850 to 2014, this paper, from the perspective of climate change, examines the observational evidence in the warmest year by comprehensively analyzing the changing characteristics of the global surface temperature, ocean heat content as well as the surface temperature in key regions. Meanwhile, this paper analyzes the possible cause of the warmest year from the factors of human activities and the ocean forcing. Finally, based on these analyses, the authors point out some possible damage caused by climate warming and further present some necessary approaches to combating climate warming.
Improving Groundwater Management for Indian Agriculture: Assessing Tradeoffs Across Policy Instruments
Authors: Msangi Siwa , Cline Sarah Ann
Published: September 2016

Despite efforts to reform management of water resources, groundwater levels have continued to decline steadily in key aquifers across India, leading to serious environmental concerns and impacts. While policy makers have looked to efforts aimed at improving the efficiency of field-level irrigation and strengthening ownership and property rights in local resource management, hydrologists have asserted that more direct control of consumptive use patterns of water is needed. In this paper, we illustrate the divergence between current groundwater usage patterns and an optimal path, in which the groundwater levels are stabilized with better demand-side management. The paper assesses the tradeoffs embedded in alternative policy instruments that are aimed at modifying the groundwater pumping behavior of agricultural water users. The challenges of regulating smallholder agricultural water users are shown to be relevant in determining which instrument might have the best chance of slowing the depletion of groundwater resources in the hard-rock aquifers of India, and promoting the long-run sustainability of this critical natural resource.
Effect of electrode configuration on electrokinetic stabilization of soft clays
Authors: Askin Taylan , Turer Dilek
Published: September 2016

The effect of electrode configuration on electrokinetic strengthening of soft clays was assessed using a circular electrokinetic experimental setup with multiple electrode rods instead of a conventional rectangular setup with two plate electrodes. The experiments were carried out in three configurations where CaCl
2
was used as a stabilizing agent in all, but the position of the anode was changed. In the first experiment the anode was in the central compartment, and in the second and third it was in the peripheral compartment, with the third experiment also having Ca(OH)
2
added to the soil along with CaCl
2
. In the first experiment with the application of 10 V for 10 days, a 49% increase in shear strength was obtained in the cathode region. In the areas close to the anode and in the middle section, however, the shear strength was decreased by 26 and 11% respectively. In the second and third experiments the shear strength was increased in all regions (close to anode, middle, close to cathode) by 36, 60 and 137% and 25, 48 and 123% respectively. These results showed that the configuration with the anode positioned in the peripheral compartment works much better in obtaining an increase in shear strength throughout the sample.
Experimental Studies on the Cultural Evolution of Language
Authors: Tamariz Monica
Published: September 2016

Why are languages the way they are? The biases and constraints that explain why languages display the traits they do—instead of other possible ones—include human cognition, social dynamics, communicative function, the structure of meanings, and the interactions between these. Cultural language evolution is concerned with explaining the causal pathways that link these biases and constraints with fundamental linguistic traits, such as combinatoriality, compositionality, conventionality, and arbitrariness. The cultural evolution of language, or the emergence of a language from no language, begins when motivated signals are used in context by individuals who do not share a means of communication. Repeated interaction between interlocutors makes individual signals compressible through reduction or simplification and can entrench idiosyncratic patterns. Transmission to new learners results in the increasing compressibility at the level of the system through the introduction of categories and regular rules, and in the spread of conventional, arbitrary signals.
Highly Effective New Treatments for Psoriasis Target the IL-23/Type 17 T Cell Autoimmune Axis
Authors: Kim Jaehwan , Krueger James G.
Published: September 2016

Psoriasis vulgaris, affecting the skin, is one of the most common organ-specific autoimmune diseases in humans. Until recently, psoriasis was treated by agents or approaches discovered largely through serendipity. Many of the available drugs were inherently quite toxic when used as continuous treatment for many years in this chronic disease. However, an increasing understanding of disease-specific immune pathways has spurred development of pathway-targeted therapeutics during the past decade. Psoriasis is now the most effectively treated human autoimmune disease, with high-level clinical improvements possible in ∼90% of patients using a new generation of drugs that selectively target the IL-23/Type 17 T cell axis. Thus, psoriasis is a model for the success of a translational-medicine approach based on cellular and molecular dissection of disease pathogenesis in humans.
Physiological and hypoxic oxygen concentration differentially regulates human c-Kit+ cardiac stem cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Bellio Michael A. , Rodrigues Claudia O. , Landin Ana Marie , Hatzistergos Konstantinos E. , Kuznetsov Jeffim , Florea Victoria , Valasaki Krystalenia , Khan Aisha , Hare Joshua M. , Schulman Ivonne Hernandez
Published: September 2016

Cardiac stem cells (CSCs) are being evaluated for their efficacy in the treatment of heart failure. However, numerous factors impair the exogenously delivered cells' regenerative capabilities. Hypoxia is one stress that contributes to inadequate tissue repair. Here, we tested the hypothesis that hypoxia impairs cell proliferation, survival, and migration of human CSCs relative to physiological and room air oxygen concentrations. Human endomyocardial biopsy-derived CSCs were isolated, selected for c-Kit expression, and expanded in vitro at room air (21% O2). To assess the effect on proliferation, survival, and migration, CSCs were transferred to physiological (5%) or hypoxic (0.5%) O2 concentrations. Physiological O2 levels increased proliferation ( P < 0.05) but did not affect survival of CSCs. Although similar growth rates were observed in room air and hypoxia, a significant reduction of β-galactosidase activity (−4,203 fluorescent units, P < 0.05), p16 protein expression (0.58-fold, P < 0.001), and mitochondrial content (0.18-fold, P < 0.001) in hypoxia suggests that transition from high (21%) to low (0.5%) O2 reduces senescence and promotes quiescence. Furthermore, physiological O2 levels increased migration ( P < 0.05) compared with room air and hypoxia, and treatment with mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned media rescued CSC migration under hypoxia to levels comparable to physiological O2 migration (2-fold, P < 0.05 relative to CSC media control). Our finding that physiological O2 concentration is optimal for in vitro parameters of CSC biology suggests that standard room air may diminish cell regenerative potential. This study provides novel insights into the modulatory effects of O2 concentration on CSC biology and has important implications for refining stem cell therapies.
Exposure to cigarette smoke abrogates the beneficial effect of ischemic postconditioning
Authors: Bibli Sofia-Iris , Andreadou Ioanna , Glynos Constantinos , Chatzianastasiou Athanasia , Toumpanakis Dimitris , Zakynthinos Spyros , Vasilakopoulos Theodoros , Iliodromitis Efstathios K. , Papapetropoulos Andreas
Published: September 2016

Cigarette smoking is one of the risk factors for coronary artery disease. Although conditioning decreases infarct size in hearts from healthy animals, comorbidities may render it ineffective. We investigated the effects of cigarette smoke (CS) exposure on intracellular myocardial signaling, infarct size after ischemia-reperfusion, and the potential interference with ischemic conditioning. Exposure of mice to CS increased blood pressure, caused cardiac hypertrophy, and upregulated the nitric oxide synthatse (NOS)/soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)/cGMP pathway. To test the effect of CS exposure on the endogenous cardioprotective mechanisms, mice were subjected to regional myocardial ischemia and reperfusion with no further intervention or application of preconditioning (PreC) or postconditioning (PostC). Exposure to CS did not increase the infarction compared with the room air (RA)-exposed group. PreC was beneficial for both CS and RA vs. nonconditioned animals. PostC was effective only in RA animals, while the infarct size-limiting effect was not preserved in the CS group. Differences in oxidative stress markers, Akt, and endothelial NOS phosphorylation and cGMP levels were observed between RA and CS groups subjected to PostC. In conclusion, exposure to CS does not per se increase infarct size. The beneficial effect of ischemic PreC is preserved in mice exposed to CS, as it does not affect the cardioprotective signaling; in contrast, PostC fails to protect CS-exposed mice due to impaired activation of the Akt/eNOS/cGMP axis that occurs in parallel to enhanced oxidative stress.
Of mice and men: correlations between microRNA-17∼92 cluster expression and promoter methylation in severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Robbins Mary E. , Dakhlallah Duaa , Marsh Clay B. , Rogers Lynette K. , Tipple Trent E.
Published: September 2016

We previously demonstrated that decreased miR-17∼92 cluster expression was 1) present in lungs from human infants who died with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD); 2) inversely correlated with DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) expression and promoter methylation; and 3) correlated with a subsequent diagnosis of BPD at 36 wk gestational age. We tested the hypothesis that plasma miR-17 levels would be lowest in infants who ultimately develop severe BPD. Secondly, we utilized our well-characterized murine model of severe BPD that combines perinatal inflammation with postnatal hyperoxia to test the hypothesis that alterations in lung miR-17∼92, DNMT, and promoter methylation in our model would mirror our findings in tissues from premature human infants. Plasma was obtained during the first 5 days of life from premature infants born ≤32 wk gestation. Lung tissues were harvested from mice exposed to maternal inflammation and neonatal hyperoxia for 14 days after birth. miR-17∼92 cluster expression and DNA methyltransferase expression were measured by qRT-PCR, and promoter methylation was assessed by Methyl-Profiler assay. Plasma miR-17 levels are significantly lower in the first week of life in human infants who develop severe BPD compared with mild or moderate BPD. Data from our severe BPD murine model reveal that lung miR-17∼92 cluster expression is significantly attenuated, and levels inversely correlated with DNMT expression and miR-17∼92 cluster promoter methylation. Collectively, our data support a plausible role for epigenetically altered miR-17∼92 cluster in the pathogenesis of severe BPD.
Estimating oxygen uptake and energy expenditure during treadmill walking by neural network analysis of easy-to-obtain inputs
Authors: Beltrame Thomas , Amelard Robert , Villar Rodrigo , Shafiee Mohammad J. , Wong Alexander , Hughson Richard L.
Published: September 2016

The study of oxygen uptake (V̇o2) dynamics during walking exercise transitions adds valuable information regarding fitness. However, direct V̇o2measurements are not practical for general population under realistic settings. Devices to measure V̇o2are associated with elevated cost, uncomfortable use of a mask, need of trained technicians, and impossibility of long-term data collection. The objective of this study was to predict the V̇o2dynamics from heart rate and inputs from the treadmill ergometer by a novel artificial neural network approach. To accomplish this, 10 healthy young participants performed one incremental and three moderate constant work rate treadmill walking exercises. The speed and grade used for the moderate-intensity protocol was related to 80% of the V̇o2response at the gas exchange threshold estimated during the incremental exercise. The measured V̇o2was used to train an artificial neural network to create an algorithm able to predict the V̇o2based on easy-to-obtain inputs. The dynamics of the V̇o2response during exercise transition were evaluated by exponential modeling. Within each participant, the predicted V̇o2was strongly correlated to the measured V̇o2( = 0.97 ± 0.0) and presented a low bias (~0.2%), enabling the characterization of the V̇o2dynamics during treadmill walking exercise. The proposed algorithm could be incorporated into smart devices and fitness equipment, making them suitable for tracking changes in aerobic fitness and physical health beyond the infrequent monitoring of patients during clinical interventions and rehabilitation programs.
Molecular Epidemiology of Human Metapneumovirus in Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Amer Haitham Mohamed
Published: September 2016

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an important cause of respiratory tract illness in children. Two HMPV subgroups, A and B, and four genotypes, A1, A2, B1 and B2, have been identified. Concurrent circulation of the different genotypes in yearly epidemics has been recorded globally, but not in Saudi Arabia. The current report was designed to study HMPV epidemiology in Saudi children and to analyze the genetic diversity and circulation patterns. Nasopharyngeal aspirates (n = 174) were collected from hospitalized children in Riyadh (2008-2009). The screening of samples using real-time RT-PCR identified 19 HMPV strains. The majority of the strains belonged to subgroup B, while all strains of subgroup A were members of genotype A2. In 2008, only subgroup B was recognized, whereas in 2009 both subgroups were identified to be cocirculating at similar rates. The full-length attachment (G) gene and a partial sequence of the fusion (F) gene of positive samples were sequenced. The G gene showed a high degree of genetic diversity and exhibited a variable number of positively selected sites in different lineages. In contrast, the F gene demonstrated an extensive genetic stability with a higher tendency toward purifying selection. This is the first report on HMPV genotype circulation in Saudi Arabia; however, the exact circulation kinetics requires further retrospective and prospective study.
The Impact of Obesity on Outcomes Following Resection for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Struecker Benjamin , Biebl Matthias , Dadras Mehran , Chopra Sascha , Denecke Christian , Spenke Johanna , Heilmann Ann-Christin , Bahra Marcus , Sauer Igor Maximilian , Pratschke Johann , Andreou Andreas
Published: September 2016

Background: Obesity is generally considered to be associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality following intraabdominal cancer surgery. However, recent reports showed that overweight patients may have a lower risk for adverse postoperative outcomes and this observation has been described as the ‘obesity paradox'. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the impact of obesity on outcomes after resection for gastric cancer. Methods: Data of patients who underwent resection for gastric cancer between 2005 and 2012 were assessed. Patient characteristics, postoperative outcomes and long-term survivals were compared between patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥30 and <30. Results: Resection for gastric cancer was performed in 249 patients. BMI ≥30 was identified in 49 patients. Obese patients with BMI ≥30 were more frequently diagnosed with diabetes (31 vs. 16%, p = 0.015). Resection for gastric cancer in obese patients was significantly associated with longer duration of surgery (278 vs. 243 min, p < 0.001), longer duration of hospital stay (18 vs. 16 days, p = 0.028), increased postoperative morbidity (49 vs. 33%, p = 0.037), and increased postoperative mortality (10 vs. 3%, p = 0.028). There was no significant difference in overall survival (OS) between patients with BMI ≥30 and patients with BMI <30 (5-year OS rate: 59 vs. 62%, p = 0.587). Conclusion: Obesity may complicate resection for gastric cancer increasing the duration of surgical procedure, hospital stay and postoperative morbidity and mortality. However, BMI did not predict OS in our patients. Consequently, BMI may be too simple as a parameter to evaluate sophisticated interactions between different body fat compartments and inflammatory and immune responses and thus to predict long-term oncologic outcomes.
The Influence of Hemodialysis on T Regulatory Cells: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Caprara Carlotta , Kinsey Gilbert R. , Corradi Valentina , Xin Wenjun , Ma Jennie Z. , Scalzotto Elisa , Martino Francesca K. , Okusa Mark D. , Nalesso Federico , Ferrari Fiorenza , Rosner Mitchell , Ronco Claudio
Published: September 2016

Aims: The study aimed to determine whether the available literature supports a positive or negative influence of dialysis on regulatory T-cells (Tregs). Methods: We performed a systematic search and a meta-analysis. Mean differences in Tregs number of chronic kidney disease stages G5 on dialysis patients (CKD G5D) and healthy controls (HCs) were compared. Random effects model was applied. The software used was general package for meta-analysis (version 4.3-0, depends R (≥2.9.1)). Results: Five studies were included in the meta-analysis. The mean difference in percentage of Tregs on CD4+ T-cells between CKD G5D and HCs was not statistically different. Moreover, CKD GFR stages G5 not on dialysis (CKD G5) versus HC (p = 0.002; mean difference in Treg percentage was -2.47% in CKD G5 vs. HC) and CKD G5 versus CKD G5D (not significant). Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrates an association between the uremic state and lower Tregs, and supports the hypothesis that hemodialysis alter Tregs. Our findings highlight the need for new clinical studies. Video Journal Club ‘Cappuccino with Claudio Ronco' at http://www.karger.com/?doi=449242.
Is High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Causally Related to Kidney Function?
Authors: Coassin Stefan , Friedel Salome , Köttgen Anna , Lamina Claudia , Kronenberg Florian
Published: September 2016

Objective—

A recent observational study with almost 2 million men reported an association between low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and worse kidney function. The causality of this association would be strongly supported if genetic variants associated with HDL cholesterol were also associated with kidney function.

Approach and Results—

We used 68 genetic variants (single-nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs]) associated with HDL cholesterol in genome-wide association studies including >188 000 subjects and tested their association with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using summary statistics from another genome-wide association studies meta-analysis of kidney function including ≤133 413 subjects. Fourteen of the 68 SNPs (21%) had a
P
value <0.05 compared with the 5% expected by chance (Binomial test
P
=5.8×10
−
6
). After Bonferroni correction, 6 SNPs were still significantly associated with eGFR. The genetic variants with the strongest associations with HDL cholesterol concentrations were not the same as those with the strongest association with kidney function and vice versa. An evaluation of pleiotropy indicated that the effects of the HDL-associated SNPs on eGFR were not mediated by HDL cholesterol. In addition, we performed a Mendelian randomization analysis. This analysis revealed a positive but nonsignificant causal effect of HDL cholesterol–increasing variants on eGFR.

Conclusions—

In summary, our findings indicate that HDL cholesterol does not causally influence eGFR and propose pleiotropic effects on eGFR for some HDL cholesterol–associated SNPs. This may cause the observed association by mechanisms other than the mere HDL cholesterol concentration.
Genotype-Dependent and -Independent Calcium Signaling Dysregulation in Human Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Helms Adam S. , Alvarado Francisco J. , Yob Jaime , Tang Vi T. , Pagani Francis , Russell Mark W. , Valdivia Héctor H. , Day Sharlene M.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Aberrant calcium signaling may contribute to arrhythmias and adverse remodeling in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Mutations in sarcomere genes may distinctly alter calcium handling pathways.

Methods:

We analyzed gene expression, protein levels, and functional assays for calcium regulatory pathways in human HCM surgical samples with (n=25) and without (n=10) sarcomere mutations compared with control hearts (n=8).

Results:

Gene expression and protein levels for calsequestrin, L-type calcium channel, sodium-calcium exchanger, phospholamban, calcineurin, and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II (CaMKII) were similar in HCM samples compared with controls. CaMKII protein abundance was increased only in sarcomere-mutation HCM (
P
<0.001). The CaMKII target pT17-phospholamban was 5.5-fold increased only in sarcomere-mutation HCM (
P
=0.01), as was autophosphorylated CaMKII (
P
<0.01), suggestive of constitutive activation. Calcineurin (
PPP3CB
) mRNA was not increased, nor was
RCAN1
mRNA level, indicating a lack of calcineurin activation. Furthermore, myocyte enhancer factor 2 and nuclear factor of activated T cell transcription factor activity was not increased in HCM, suggesting that calcineurin pathway activation is not an upstream cause of increased CAMKII protein abundance or activation.
SERCA2A
mRNA transcript levels were reduced in HCM regardless of genotype, as was sarcoplasmic endoplasmic reticular calcium ATPase 2/phospholamban protein ratio (45% reduced;
P
=0.03).
45
Ca sarcoplasmic endoplasmic reticular calcium ATPaseuptake assay showed reduced uptake velocity in HCM regardless of genotype (
P
=0.01). The cardiac ryanodine receptor was not altered in transcript, protein, or phosphorylated (pS2808, pS2814) protein abundance, and [
3
H]ryanodine binding was not different in HCM, consistent with no major modification of the ryanodine receptor.

Conclusions:

Human HCM demonstrates calcium mishandling through both genotype-specific and common pathways. Posttranslational activation of the CaMKII pathway is specific to sarcomere mutation–positive HCM, whereas sarcoplasmic endoplasmic reticular calcium ATPase 2 abundance and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca uptake are depressed in both sarcomere mutation–positive and –negative HCM.
Problem Features versus Algorithm Performance on Rugged Multiobjective Combinatorial Fitness Landscapes
Authors: Daolio Fabio , Liefooghe Arnaud , Verel Sébastien , Aguirre Hernán , Tanaka Kiyoshi
Published: September 2016

In this article, we attempt to understand and to contrast the impact of problem features on the performance of randomized search heuristics for black-box multiobjective combinatorial optimization problems. At first, we measure the performance of two conventional dominance-based approaches with unbounded archive on a benchmark of enumerable binary optimization problems with tunable ruggedness, objective space dimension, and objective correlation ([Formula: see text]MNK-landscapes). Precisely, we investigate the expected runtime required by a global evolutionary optimization algorithm with an ergodic variation operator (GSEMO) and by a neighborhood-based local search heuristic (PLS), to identify a ([Formula: see text]approximation of the Pareto set. Then, we define a number of problem features characterizing the fitness landscape, and we study their intercorrelation and their association with algorithm runtime on the benchmark instances. At last, with a mixed-effects multilinear regression we assess the individual and joint effect of problem features on the performance of both algorithms, within and across the instance classes defined by benchmark parameters. Our analysis reveals further insights into the importance of ruggedness and multimodality to characterize instance hardness for this family of multiobjective optimization problems and algorithms.
Performance Analysis of Continuous Black-Box Optimization Algorithms via Footprints in Instance Space
Authors: Muñoz Mario A. , Smith-Miles Kate A.
Published: September 2016

This article presents a method for the objective assessment of an algorithm’s strengths and weaknesses. Instead of examining the performance of only one or more algorithms on a benchmark set, or generating custom problems that maximize the performance difference between two algorithms, our method quantifies both the nature of the test instances and the algorithm performance. Our aim is to gather information about possible phase transitions in performance, that is, the points in which a small change in problem structure produces algorithm failure. The method is based on the accurate estimation and characterization of the algorithm footprints, that is, the regions of instance space in which good or exceptional performance is expected from an algorithm. A footprint can be estimated for each algorithm and for the overall portfolio. Therefore, we select a set of features to generate a common instance space, which we validate by constructing a sufficiently accurate prediction model. We characterize the footprints by their area and density. Our method identifies complementary performance between algorithms, quantifies the common features of hard problems, and locates regions where a phase transition may lie.
Structural and Optical Properties of Li2O–NaF–ZnO–P2O5:(CdO + S) Glass System
Authors: Algradee Mohammed A. , Higazy A. A. , Wageh S.
Published: September 2016

Glasses having composition 5Li2O-33NaF-7ZnO-55P2O5: x wt% (CdO + S) where x = 0.0, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 wt%, were prepared by the melt quenching method and their amorphous nature was confirmed by X-ray diffraction technique.
Variations in density (ρ), molar volume (Vm) and glass transition temperature (Tg) have been correlated with structural changes in the glass matrix. The optical absorption spectra of the polished samples were recorded in spectral range from 200
to 1000 nm at room temperature. The optical band gap (Eopt.) and Urbach energy (ΔE) were determined from the absorption spectra. These parameters (Eopt., ΔE) were found to vary depending on the composition of the glasses. The Fourier-transform
Infrared (FTIR) spectra have been recorded in the spectral range from 400 to 4000 cm–1. The FTIR reveals that the addition of Cd2+ ions provide ionic cross-linking between the non-bridging oxygen of different chains and increasing the bond strength of this ionic
cross-link which confirmed by decrease in the molar volume and increase in the glass transition temperature when (CdO + S) content is increased. The compositional dependences of the above properties are discussed and correlated with the structural changes in glass matrix.
Impedance and Dielectric Properties of PANI/V2O5 Nano Composites
Authors: Sridhar B. Chakradhar , Ambika Prasad M. V. N.
Published: September 2016

The conducting Polyaniline/Vanadium Pentoxide (PANI/V2O5) composites were synthesized by single step in situ polymerization technique with 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 wt% of V2O5 in polyaniline. The composites thus formed were characterized
by Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), which confirmed the presence of V2O5 in polyaniline matrix and the formation of the composite. The AC conductivity has been studied in the frequency range of 50 Hz to 1 MHz and it is found that 40 wt% shows high conductivity
compare to pure polyaniline and other composites. The high dielectric constant, which is related to polarization. It is seen that both dielectric constant and dielectric loss decrease with increase in frequency. The variation of impedance as a function of frequency suggesting nearly Debye-type
relaxation mechanism. The results obtained for these composites are of scientific and technological interest.
Assessment of a semi-quantitative screening method for diagnosis of ethylene glycol poisoning
Authors: Sankaralingam Arun , Thomas Annette , James David R , Wierzbicki Anthony S
Published: September 2016

Background

Ethylene glycol poisoning remains a rare but important presentation to acute toxicology units. Guidelines recommended that ethylene glycol should be available as an ‘urgent’ test within 4 h, but these are difficult to deliver in practice. This study assessed a semi-quantitative enzymatic spectrophotometric assay for ethylene glycol compatible with automated platforms.

Methods

The ethylene glycol method was assessed in 21 samples from patients with an increased anion gap and metabolic acidosis not due to ethylene glycol ingestion, and seven samples known to contain ethylene glycol. All samples were analysed in random order in a blinded manner to their origin on a laboratory spectrophotometer.

Results

In this study, seven samples were known to contain ethylene glycol at concentrations >100 mg/L. The method correctly identified all seven samples as containing ethylene glycol. No false-positives were observed. Thirteen samples gave clear negative results. Ethylene glycol was present at <20 mg/L in one sample, but this sample remained within the limits of the negative control. Passing-Bablock correlation of estimates of ethylene glycol concentration against results obtained when the samples had been analysed using the quantitative method on an automated analyser showed a good correlation (R = 0.84) but with an apparent under-recovery.

Conclusions

A semi-quantitative assay for ethylene glycol was able to discriminate well between samples containing ethylene glycol and those with other causes of acidosis. It is a practical small-scale assay for rapid identification of cases of ethylene glycol poisoning.
Falsely elevated serum oestradiol due to exemestane therapy
Authors: Mandic Sanja , Kratzsch Jϋrgen , Mandic Dario , Debeljak Zeljko , Lukic Iva , Horvat Vesna , Gaudl Alexander , Seric Vatroslav
Published: September 2016

In this study, we present a case of falsely elevated oestradiol (E2) concentration, determined by two immunoassays, in a breast cancer patient receiving exemestane therapy. The positive bias of immunochemical measurements was revealed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry which showed undetectable E2 concentration. The discrepancy is expected to be a consequence of the structural resemblance of E2 and exemestane sharing the same steroidal backbone. Inaccurate laboratory findings in therapy monitoring, as in this case, may lead to unnecessary changes of therapy.
Wartime Resistance and Republican Political Agency in Primo Levi's Partisan Novel
Authors: Pirro Robert
Published: September 2016

Primo Levi is best known as a Holocaust survivor whose works are considered to be indispensable contributions to the literature of testimony about Nazi genocide. In trying to draw politically-relevant insights from Levi, readers have generally focused on his analysis of the extremes of human deprivation in his Holocaust writings. This article considers Levi more broadly as an analyst of the various forms of human agency and argues that his novel of partisan warfare, Se non ora quando? (1982), presents a vision of virtuous republican political agency. Levi's partisan novel dramatizes the fraught relationship between civil and military values in order to investigate what it takes for a republic to be founded and maintained in a world of risk. Considered against the backdrop of Levi's own short-lived experience as a partisan, relevant writings from republican theorist and fellow Jewish refugee Hannah Arendt, and the early Eighties presidency of ex-partisan Sandro Pertini, Levi's novel is revealed to be a text that speaks (however ambivalently) to a republican tradition of endorsing citizen soldiers and affirming the worth of political foundation.
Teaching fundamentals of photovoltaic array performance with simulation tools
Authors: Tortoreli Marina D , Chatzarakis George E , Voudoukis Nikolaos F , Pagiatakis Gerasimos K , Papadakis Andreas E
Published: September 2016

This paper presents a course module containing exercises based on simulation tools that can be used to efficiently educate Electrical and Electronic Engineering undergraduate students on the electrical behavior of solar cells and photovoltaic arrays. This module is taught as part of the “Alternative Energy Sources” course added to the curriculum of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Educators Department of ASPETE in 2013. The concept is to offer our undergraduate students the opportunity to deeply understand the electrical behavior of solar cells and photovoltaics by virtually experimenting with individual solar cells and photovoltaic arrays creating their necessary models in the popular platform of MULTISIM (the simulator from National Instruments). This is important for the success of the learning process of this course, which is not accompanied with a real-world laboratory that would be expensive to implement.
Pre-hospital identification and post-recovery challenges of intoxication with synthetic cannabinoid containing legal high products such as ‘Exodus Damnation’
Authors: Fitzpatrick David , O’Meara Patrick , Cunningham Andrew
Published: September 2016

This short report describes the case of a young adult male who had smoked a synthetic cannabinoid legal high product called ‘Exodus Damnation’. The patient’s presentation was atypical from that described in the literature, with hypotension and hypoxaemia. Of note was the rapid recovery after pre-hospital intervention with high-flow oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids. The patient refused on-going care, despite repeated advice to attend the Emergency Department. The distinct lack of specialist support and referral to drug treatment for this patient population, with whom ambulance services are coming into contact with increasing frequency, is reported. For those patients with the capacity to refuse on-going care, ambulance services may be in an opportune position to actively promote referral to support services for these vulnerable individuals.
Extraordinary Acts to “Show Up”: Conceptualizing Resilience of LGBTQ Youth
Authors: Asakura Kenta
Published: September 2016

Sexual and gender diversity is an overlooked subject in resilience research. This study seeks to advance the conceptualization of resilience among lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) youth. Informed by social ecological theory of resilience, grounded theory analysis of interviews with service providers ( n = 16) and LGBTQ youth ( n = 19) yielded the following categories: (a) facing adversities across contexts, and (b) “doing well” while still in pain. LGBTQ youth face both general and LGBTQ-specific adversities. LGBTQ youth, even in a so-called “post-gay” era, remain challenged to navigate marginalization to maintain their well-being. Participants endorsed a context-dependent understanding of “doing well,” rather than using normative criteria of health (e.g., absence of psychopathologies). Although resilience is known as “ordinary magic,” this article alternatively proposes that resilience is LGBTQ youths’ extraordinary acts to “show up” every day to battle through adversities.
Endocarditis: the great mimic of rheumatic diseases
Authors: Misra Durga Prasanna , Chowdury Abhra Chandra , Edavalath Sukesh , Aggarwal Amita , Kumar Sudeep , Agarwal Vikas
Published: September 2016

Rheumatic manifestations may be prevalent in more than 30% of patients with infective endocarditis (IE), often predating this diagnosis by several months. A case series of five patients recorded at a tertiary care Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology unit over a period of 1 year emphasises that varied presentations of endocarditis may mimic uncommon rheumatic diseases.
Comparing the Survivability of Lactobacillus Species in Various Probiotic Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Fleming Derek , Kesey Jennifer , Rumbaugh Kendra , Dissanaike Sharmila
Published: September 2016

Background: Probiotics are widely used in healthy and nonhealthy individuals to maintain a favorable gut microbiome and inhibit pathogen takeover. Currently, there are many varieties of probiotic delivery vehicles on the market, with no real research indicating which is the most effective at allowing for colon colonization. In this study, we sought to determine if probiotic preparation influences the ability of Lactobacillus species, one of the most common genera of probiotic bacteria, to survive gastric acidity. Objective: To determine the survivability of lactobacilli in stomach‐level acidity for a variety of probiotic delivery vehicles. Materials and Methods: We tested the ability of 6 different probiotic preparations—enterically encapsulated pills, nonencapsulated pills, lyophilized powder, yogurt, yogurt drink, and kefir—to enhance survivability of lactobacilli in pH 2.0–adjusted phosphate‐buffered saline over time. Colony‐forming units were enumerated by spot plating on both nonselective (brain‐heart infusion) and selective (Rogosa SL) agar. Results: Regardless of delivery vehicle, lactobacilli are very capable of surviving gastric acidity, allowing for passage into the intestines.
Elements of a theory of global governance
Authors: Held David
Published: September 2016

In the aftermath of the Second World War the international institutional breakthroughs that occurred provided the momentum for decades of sustained economic growth and geopolitical stability sufficient for the transformation of the world economy, the shift from the cold war to a multipolar order, and the rise of new communication and network societies. However, what worked then does not work as well now, as gridlock freezes problem-solving capacity in global governance. The search for pathways through and beyond gridlock is a hugely significant task – nationally and globally – if global governance is to be once again effective, responsive and fit for purpose. This article explores these issues and provides elements of a theory of global governance in order to begin to understand the challenges of the 21st century and how to surmount them.
Assessing innovation: Dynamics of high-rise development in an Israeli city
Authors: Almagor Jonatan , Benenson Itzhak , Alfasi Nurit
Published: September 2016

Urban models serve as laboratories, providing researchers with the opportunity to assess the impact of a wide range of social and economic processes on the development of a built environment. Novelty and unexpected changes play an essential role in this development, but these are difficult to formalize and imitate. Typically, urban models simulate innovation by introducing stochastic fluctuations of the pre-established development rules.

This research offers a methodology for assessing innovation in a developing city and examining its impact on urban development. The methodology is implemented in the Israeli city of Netanya, where urban development is analyzed at a resolution of single buildings over a period of three decades.

We recognize two types of innovation: spatial innovation, manifested by leapfrogging residential clusters that establish new development areas; and contextual innovation, manifested by residential clusters that include buildings that are substantially higher than their surroundings. We demonstrate the impact of few innovative residential clusters on urban development in the following decades and highlight the diffusion of innovation in the city.
Angiomatosis of soft tissue as an important differential diagnosis for intramuscular venous malformations
Authors: Aronniemi Johanna , Lohi Jouko , Salminen Päivi , Vuola Pia , Lappalainen Kimmo , Pitkäranta Anne , Pekkola Johanna
Published: September 2016

Background

We aimed to improve management of extremity low-flow vascular malformations by analyzing the histology and imaging of venous malformations (VMs) not responsive to sclerotherapy.

Method

We reviewed patient records of 102 consecutive patients treated with sclerotherapy for extremity VM in our institution to identify patients who had undergone surgery due to insufficient response. We semi-quantitatively analysed the tissue specimens and compared histological findings to those in preoperative imaging.

Result

The number of patients operated on was 19 (18.6%); 15 of them had lower-extremity intramuscular lesions. The histological pattern of 13 of these 15 lesions corresponded to angiomatosis of soft tissue (AST). All other lesions treated surgically were VMs. The histology of AST was distinctive but magnetic resonance imaging findings often overlapped with those of VM.

Conclusion

AST is easily mixed with intramuscular VM. The differentiation of these two entities has therapeutic importance. We emphasize the role of histology in the differential diagnostics of intramuscular slow-flow vascular malformations.