bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of hoof orientation and ballast on acceleration and vibration in the hoof and distal forelimb following simulated impactsex vivo
Authors: McCarty C. A. , Thomason J. J. , Gordon K. , Burkhart T. , Bignell W.
Published: February 2014

Reasons for performing study

We wished to add to the existing baseline data on impact loading of the distal limb as a precursor to assessing the potential role of impact in injury and joint disease.

Objectives

To examine the effect of 3 hoof‐strike conditions (toe first, flat and heel first) and 2 specimen masses (with and without a ballast of ∼2% body mass) on impact deceleration and vibration frequencies and energies at the hoof, first phalanx and third metacarpal.

Study design

Biomechanical experiments in cadaver material.

Methods

Eight cadaver limbs were subjected to randomised, repeated controlled trials, in which the hoof was struck by a pendulum impact‐testing machine (impact velocity, 3.55 m/s) in the 3 strike and 2 mass conditions. Data from triaxial accelerometers on the hoof, first phalanx and third metacarpal quantified, for all trials, the peak impact acceleration, frequencies in the first 6.4 ms following impact, the frequency with the most energy, 95% of the total energy and the frequency at 95% cumulative energy. The effects of the strike and mass conditions on each variable were statistically tested using repeated‐measuresANOVA(α = 0.05).

Results

Signal energy reaching the third metacarpal was 6–31% of that at the hoof. A heel‐first strike produced the largest peak accelerations and highest frequencies among all strike conditions, and changing the mass had no effect regardless of strike condition.

Conclusions

Large accelerations that occur upon impact of the hoof with the ground are attenuated by the distal structures of the equine limb, but still carry considerable energy within the signal that could be damaging to tissue and are dependent on hoof‐strike condition but not ballast. Our results suggest that impact loading on the hoof could be a factor in contributing to bone injury and joint disease in the distal limb.
Nurse practitioner prescribing practice in Australia: Confidence in aspects of medication management
Authors: Cashin Andrew , Stasa Helen , Dunn Sandra V , Pont Lisa , Buckley Thomas
Published: February 2014

The findings of the 2010 national survey of nurse practitioner (NP) prescribing in Australia related to confidence in prescribing are reported. A significant correlation between years endorsed as a NP and prescribing confidence was found. NPs in Australia were significantly more confident in the prescribing aspects of commencing a new medication than adjusting or ceasing a medication prescribed by others. These findings are discussed in relation to promotion of the quality use of medicines and identification of potential strategies to promote the ongoing positive evolution of NP practice in Australia.
Prediction of the key binding site of odorant‐binding protein of Holotrichia oblita Faldermann (Coleoptera: Scarabaeida)
Authors: Zhuang X. , Wang Q. , Wang B. , Zhong T. , Cao Y. , Li K. , Yin J.
Published: February 2014

The scarab beetle Holotrichia oblita Faldermann (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is a predominant underground pest in the northern parts of China, and its larvae (grubs) cause great economic losses because of its wide range of host plants and covert habitats. Environmentally friendly strategies for controlling adults would have novel and broad potential applications. One potential pest management measure is the regulation of olfactory chemoreception to control target insect pests. In the process of olfactory recognition, odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) are believed to carry hydrophobic odorants from the environment to the surface of olfactory receptor neurons. To obtain a better understanding of the relationship between OBP structures and their ligands, homology modelling and molecular docking have been conducted on the interaction between HoblOBP1 and hexyl benzoate in the present study. Based on the results, site‐directed mutagenesis and binding experiments were combined to describe the binding sites of HoblOBP1 and to explore its ligand‐binding mechanism. After homology modelling of HoblOBP1, it was found that the three‐dimensional structure of HoblOBP1 consists of six α‐helices and three disulphide bridges that connect the helices, and the hydrophobic pockets are both composed of five helices. Based on the docking study, we found that van der Waals interactions and hydrophobic interactions are both important in the bonding between HoblOBP1 and hexyl benzoate. Intramolecular residues formed the hydrogen bonds in the C terminus of the protein and the bonds are crucial for the ligand‐binding specificity. Finally, MET48, ILE80 and TYR111 are binding sites predicted for HoblOBP1. Using site‐directed mutagenesis and fluorescence assays, it was found that ligands could not be recognized by mutant of Tyr111. A possible explanation is that the compound could not be recognized by the mutant, and remains in the binding cavity because of the loss of the intramolecular hydrogen bonding that acts as a holder. So we believe that Tyr111 of HoblOBP1 is a key binding site. We also believe that Ile80A is a very important binding site, especially to some ligands.
The antenna‐specific odorant‐binding protein AlinOBP13 of the alfalfa plant bug Adelphocoris lineolatus is expressed specifically in basiconic sensilla and has high binding affinity to terpenoids
Authors: Sun L. , Xiao H‐J. , Gu S‐H. , Zhou J‐J. , Guo Y‐Y. , Liu Z‐W. , Zhang Y‐J.
Published: February 2014

Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) are crucial in the olfactory pathway of insects. In the present study, the antenna‐enriched OBP AlinOBP13 was investigated because of its potential contribution to the peripheral olfactory perception in the alfalfa plant bug Adelphocoris lineolatus. The results of quantitative reverse transcriptase‐PCR showed that the transcript level of AlinOBP13 was higher in the adult stage than in the nymph stages. The transcript levels of AlinOBP13 in the male and female antennae significantly increased after 4 and 8 h of starvation, respectively. Fine ultrastructures of different types of chemosensilla in both female and male antennae were investigated using transmission electron microscopy and immunocytochemical labelling. The results revealed that the anti‐AlinOBP13 antiserum strongly and specifically labelled short basiconic sensilla; this antiserum was restricted to the inner lumen and the cavities below the sensillum base of the sensilla. By contrast, multiporous sensilla trichodea, medium long sensilla basiconica, and aporous sensilla chaetica were not labelled. The present study is the first to report an OBP showing specific expression in the short basiconic sensilla of a member of the Hemipteran species. The results of a fluorescence displacement binding assay indicated that recombinant AlinOBP13 showed a more specific binding preference to terpenoids than to sex pheromones and other classes of chemicals. This binding ability was dramatically affected by pH; higher binding affinities were displayed at pH 10.0 than at pH 7.4 and 5.0. In addition, the results of dose‐dependent electroantennogram recordings from the antennae showed that both female and male adult bugs responded to the terpenoids tested, suggesting an apparent physiological relevance of AlinOBP13 in A. lineolatus chemoreception. The results of this study suggest that AlinOBP13 functions as a specific carrier of terpenoids and provide insights into the mechanism of A. lineolatus in response to green volatiles.
The Ethics of Producing In Vitro Meat
Authors: Schaefer G. Owen , Savulescu Julian
Published: February 2014

The prospect of consumable meat produced in a laboratory setting without the need to raise and slaughter animals is both realistic and exciting. Not only could such in vitro meat become popular due to potential cost savings, but it also avoids many of the ethical and environmental problems with traditional meat productions. However, as with any new technology, in vitro meat is likely to face some detractors. We examine in detail three potential objections: 1) in vitro meat is disrespectful, either to nature or to animals; 2) it will reduce the number of happy animals in the world; and 3) it will open the door to cannibalism. While each objection has some attraction, we ultimately find that all can be overcome. The upshot is that in vitro meat production is generally permissible and, especially for ethical vegetarians, worth promoting.
The Tragedy of the Commons as an Essentially Aggregative Harm
Authors: Kahn Elizabeth
Published: February 2014

This article identifies ‘the tragedy of the commons’ as an essentially aggregative harm and considers what agents in such a scenario owe to one another. It proposes that the duty to take reasonable precautions requires that agents make efforts to establish collective solutions to any essentially aggregative harm to which they would otherwise contribute.

Baylor Johnson has argued that the general obligation to promote the common good requires that agents make efforts to establish a collective agreement to avert a potential tragedy of the commons. This article agrees with Johnson's analysis but argues that there are also negative duties, which give commons users additional moral reason to take collective action to prevent the destruction of the utility of the commons. These duties link commons users to resolving this particular problem and provide grounds to demand that they make greater efforts to prevent the destruction of the commons compared to bystanders.

The article suggests that fulfilling negative duties can require establishing collective institutions with the power to regulate human action and interaction. This analysis could be applied to a range of social problems which result from the aggregation of actions and practices.
Stop Thinking So Much About ‘Sexual Harassment’
Authors: Saul Jennifer
Published: February 2014

This article explores two related widespread mistakes in thinking about sexual harassment. One is a mistake made by philosophers doing philosophical work on the topic of sexual harassment: an excessive focus on attempting to define the term ‘sexual harassment’. This is a perfectly legitimate topic for discussion and indeed a necessary one, but its dominance of the literature has tended to prevent philosophers from adequately exploring other topics that are of at least equal importance, particularly that of bystanders' responsibilities. The other mistake is one made not just by philosophers but by most people attempting to deal with real‐world behaviour that is either sexual harassment or closely related to sexual harassment: an excessive focus on whether or not formal charges of sexual harassment are possible or appropriate. (This is clearly related to the first mistake in that a part of deciding whether charges are appropriate is deciding whether the behaviour meets the definition of sexual harassment.) I argue that these are not merely unfortunate errors in attempting to conceptualise certain problematic behaviours; they have extremely damaging real world effects.
Operational Aspects of a Hypothetical Demise of the Euro
Authors: Papadia Francesco
Published: February 2014

This article illustrates what would be the operational implications of a hypothetical demise of the euro. In order to do this, it examines what were the operational implications of establishing the euro and shows that the opposite endeavour would not just be its symmetric counterpart. The paper also looks at two developments that took place after the launch of the euro – the emergence of very large Target2 balances during the crisis that started in 2010 and the move towards financial integration – showing that they would add to the formidable operational complications that would be created by the demise of the euro. The paper concludes that the logistical difficulties considered here only look minor in comparison with the fundamental reasons that led governments and central banks to fight with determination the risk of a demise of the euro. In absolute terms, they are important enough to tilt the balance of costs and benefits in the direction of preserving the eurozone.
Does National Identity Matter? Political Conditionality and the Crucial Case of Serbia's (Non‐)Co‐operation with the ICTY
Authors: Pawelec Maria , Grimm Sonja
Published: February 2014

Seeking to explain the difficult cases of delayed democratic transition in the Western Balkans, recent literature argues that ‘national identity’ significantly limits the effectiveness of external actors’ political conditionality. This argument is tested in this article by investigating Serbia's co‐operation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), which was demanded by the United States and the European Union (EU). The findings show that incidents of Serbian co‐operation with the ICTY were not preceded by widespread national identity change; rather, co‐operation occurred when Serbia was faced with consistent external pressure and the immediate prospect of small‐scale rewards. Conditionality thus remained effective. These findings challenge theoretical arguments that issues of national identity may impede external actors’ projection of power, independently of domestic actors’ cost‐benefit calculations. Moreover, they suggest that, in the future, external actors such as the EU may continue to rely upon political conditionality for their democratization agenda, even concerning domestically sensitive issue‐areas.
Prevalence and predictors of PTSD and depression among adolescent victims of the Spring 2011 tornado outbreak
Authors: Adams Zachary W. , Sumner Jennifer A. , Danielson Carla Kmett , McCauley Jenna L. , Resnick Heidi S. , Grös Kirstin , Paul Lisa A. , Welsh Kyleen E. , Ruggiero Kenneth J.
Published: February 2014

Background

Relatively few studies have examined prevalence and predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or major depressive episode (MDE) in disaster‐affected adolescents. Fewer still have administered diagnostic measures or studied samples exposed to tornadoes, a common type of disaster. Further, methodologic problems limit the generalizability of previous findings. This study addressed prevalence estimates and risk factors for PTSD and MDE among adolescents exposed to the Spring 2011 tornado outbreak in Alabama and Joplin, Missouri.

Methods

A large (N = 2000), population‐based sample of adolescents and caregivers, recruited randomly from tornado‐affected communities, participated in structured telephone interviews. PTSD and MDE prevalence were estimated for the overall sample, by gender, and by age. Hierarchical logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for PTSD and MDE.

Results

Overall, 6.7% of adolescents met diagnostic criteria for PTSD and 7.5% of adolescents met diagnostic criteria for MDE since the tornado. Girls were significantly more likely than boys to meet diagnostic criteria for MDE, and older adolescents were more likely than younger adolescents to report MDE since the tornado. Female gender, prior trauma exposure, and an injured family member were associated with greater risk for PTSD and MDE. Specific incident characteristics (loss of services, concern about others’ safety) were associated with greater PTSD risk; prior disaster exposure was associated with lower MDE risk.

Conclusions

However, most adolescents were resilient following tornado exposure, roughly 1 in 15 developed PTSD, 1 in 13 developed MDE, and many more endorsed subclinical mental health problems. Information regarding specific risk factors can guide early screening, prevention, and intervention efforts in disaster‐affected communities.
Morphology of nanostructures and their long-acting properties in vivo for a novel synthetic peptide of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist
Authors: Zhang Guiying , Li Jinglai , Gao Lijun , Wang Tao , Quan Dongqin
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To demonstrate the correlation between the nanostructure formation and the long duration of action in vivo of peptides, the morphology of nanostructures of LXT-101, a novel synthetic amphiphilic peptide of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist were observed when dissolved in different solvents, and their long-acting properties in vivo were investigated in this study.

Methods

The morphology of nanostructures of LXT-101 was observed by transmission electron microscopy when dissolved in different solvents, and the plasma concentrations of LXT-101 and testosterone levels were also assayed for different solutions after intramuscular injection administration in beagle dogs.

Key findings

TEM data suggest that LXT-101 in pure water can form fibres, while in mannitol, dextrose or sodium chloride solution, they tend to form vesicles. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic results showed that the plasma concentrations of LXT-101 within 48 h were much higher but descended dramatically with mannitol, dextrose and NaCl solutions structurally composed of vesicles compared with that of pure water structurally composed of fibres. An effectively suppression of testosterone can be achieved only 2 or 3 days with the frontal three solutions, while LXT-101 in pure water maintained over a period of 7 days.

Conclusions

It may indicate that LXT-101 peptide in pure water forms fibre depot that release monomeric active peptide slowly. The correlation between the nanostructure and duration of action in vivo suggests that the addition of excipients influence self-assembly process of LXT-101 that leads to the formation of different nanostructures and exhibit various behaviours in vivo.
Religiosity and Sexual Risk Behaviors Among African American Cocaine Users in the Rural South
Authors: Montgomery Brooke E.E. , Stewart Katharine E. , Yeary Karen H.K. , Cornell Carol E. , Pulley LeaVonne , Corwyn Robert , Ounpraseuth Songthip T.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Racial and geographic disparities in human immunodeficency virus (HIV) are dramatic and drug use is a significant contributor to HIV risk. Within the rural South, African Americans who use drugs are at extremely high risk. Due to the importance of religion within African American and rural Southern communities, it can be a key element of culturally‐targeted health promotion with these populations. Studies have examined religion's relationship with sexual risk in adolescent populations, but few have examined specific religious behaviors and sexual risk behaviors among drug‐using African American adults. This study examined the relationship between well‐defined dimensions of religion and specific sexual behaviors among African Americans who use cocaine living in the rural southern United States.

Methods

Baseline data from a sexual risk reduction intervention for African Americans who use cocaine living in rural Arkansas (N = 205) were used to conduct bivariate and multivariate analyses examining the association between multiple sexual risk behaviors and key dimensions of religion including religious preference, private and public religious participation, religious coping, and God‐based, congregation‐based, and church leader‐based religious support.

Findings

After adjusting individualized network estimator weights based on the recruitment strategy, different dimensions of religion had inverse relationships with sexual risk behavior, including church leadership support with number of unprotected vaginal/anal sexual encounter and positive religious coping with number of sexual partners and with total number of vaginal/anal sexual encounters.

Conclusion

Results suggest that specific dimensions of religion may have protective effects on certain types of sexual behavior, which may have important research implications.
Perceived Correlates of Domain‐Specific Physical Activity in Rural Adults in the Midwest
Authors: Chrisman Matthew , Nothwehr Faryle , Yang Jingzen , Oleson Jacob
Published: February 2014

Purpose

In response to calls for more specificity when measuring physical activity, this study examined perceived correlates of this behavior in rural adults separately by the domain in which this behavior occurs (ie, home care, work, active living, and sport).

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was completed by 407 adults from 2 rural towns in the Midwest. The questionnaire assessed the perceived social and physical environment, including neighborhood characteristics, as well as barriers to being active. The Kaiser Physical Activity Survey captured domain‐specific activity levels. The response rate was 25%. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between social and physical environment factors and domain‐specific physical activity.

Findings

Having a favorable attitude toward using government funds for exercise and activity‐friendly neighborhood characteristic were positively associated with active living. Friends encouraging exercise was positively associated with participation in sport. Barriers were inversely associated with active living and sport. Total physical activity was positively associated with workplace incentives for exercise, favorable policy attitudes toward supporting physical education in schools and supporting the use of government funds for biking trails, and it was inversely associated with barriers. There were no factors associated with physical activity in the domains of work or home care.

Conclusions

Correlates of physical activity are unique to the domain in which this behavior occurs. Programs to increase physical activity in rural adults should target policy attitudes, neighborhood characteristics, and social support from friends while also working to decrease personal barriers to exercise.
Heart Smart for Women: A Community‐Based Lifestyle Change Intervention to Reduce Cardiovascular Risk in Rural Women
Authors: Khare Manorama M. , Koch Abby , Zimmermann Kristine , Moehring Patricia A. , Geller Stacie E.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for rural women in the United States. Lifestyle change interventions in group settings focused on increasing physical activity and improving nutrition have been shown to help reduce the risk for CVD. This paper describes the implementation and evaluation of Heart Smart for Women (HSFW), a 12‐week lifestyle behavior change intervention to reduce CVD risk for women in the rural southernmost 7 counties (S7) of Illinois.

Methods

The HSFW evidence‐based lifestyle intervention was delivered by a trained facilitator in 12 weekly 1‐hour sessions to groups of women in the rural S7 region of Illinois. Dietary and physical activity assessments were collected at baseline, postintervention, and 1 year. Clinical measurements were taken at baseline, 6 months and 1 year. Data were analyzed for change in behavioral and clinical outcomes over time.

Findings

In total, 162 women completed HSFW in 13 communities across the S7 region. HSFW participants showed improvement in dietary and physical activity indicators at the end of the 12‐week intervention, but only increases in vegetable consumption and physical activity were sustained over 1 year. A decrease in total cholesterol was observed at 6 months but not maintained at 1 year.

Conclusions

HSFW led to short‐term, moderate changes in nutrition and physical activity in rural women, but some health improvements were not sustained at 1 year. These findings suggest that more intensive follow‐up maybe required to help maintain long‐term behavior change, especially in rural areas where women are geographically dispersed.
Tips and Tricks of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Reservoir Placement: A Case Presentation and Discussion
Authors: Simon Ross , Hakky Tariq S. , Henry Gerard , Perito Paul , Martinez Daniel , Parker Justin , Carrion Rafael E.
Published: February 2014

Introduction

There have been many advances in the inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) since the 1970s. While these devices were initially fraught with mechanical malfunction, the most recent models prove to be much more reliable. Although reservoir complications are not common, when they do occur, it typically involves damage to the surrounding tissues. The ability to recognize and treat these complications is paramount for any surgeon that routinely places IPPs.

Aim

The aim of this article was to present a unique reservoir-related complication as well as perform a literature review of reservoir-related complications and techniques for reservoir placement, and provide a summary of dimensions and technical aspects of commonly used reservoirs.

Methods

We reviewed a unique reservoir-related complication that presented to our institution with urinary retention and constipation. We also reviewed reservoir-related complications since 1984, reviewed the most recent surgical techniques involved in reservoir placement, and summarized the dimensions and technical characteristics of both the American Medical System® and Coloplast® reservoirs.

Main Outcome Measure

A reservoir-related complication that resulted in urinary retention and constipation is the main outcome measure.

Results

Although uncommon, reservoir complications do occur. The most common case report complication in the published literature is bladder erosion followed by external iliac compression, ileal conduit erosion, and small bowel obstruction. The case that presented at our institution was the result of a reservoir that was improperly placed in the perineum, causing urinary retention and constipation due to the compression of the bulbar urethra and rectum.

Conclusions

In this era, mechanical failures of IPP reservoirs are rare as most complications occur due to damage of the surrounding tissues. Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these complications are important for any surgeon that implants IPPs.
Clinical relevance and cellular source of elevated soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) in acute liver failure
Authors: Koch Alexander , Zimmermann Henning W. , Gassler Nikolaus , Jochum Christoph , Weiskirchen Ralf , Bruensing Jan , Buendgens Lukas , Dückers Hanna , Bruns Tony , Gerken Guido , Neumann Ulf P. , Adams David H. , Trautwein Christian , Canbay Ali , Tacke Frank
Published: February 2014

Background & Aims

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a life‐threatening condition with a high mortality rate. The expression of urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR, CD87) and release of its shedded receptor into serum as soluble uPAR (suPAR) have been closely related to immune activation and prognosis in systemic inflammation and cirrhosis. We now aimed at investigating the clinical relevance and cellular source of uPAR and circulating suPAR in ALF.

Methods

Serum suPAR concentrations were measured in 48 ALF patients and 62 healthy controls from a German liver transplantation centre. Hepatic immune cell subsets and uPAR expression were studied by FACS, qPCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Circulating suPAR levels were significantly increased in ALF patients, independent from the underlying aetiology, in comparison to controls. Serum suPAR concentrations were closely correlated with parameters reflecting liver cell injury, decreased liver function and the model of end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score inALFpatients. By immunohistochemistry from explanted livers,ALFwas associated with distinct immune cell accumulation and strong up‐regulation of intrahepatic uPAR mRNA expression. CD87 (uPAR) expression was specifically detected on intrahepatic ‘non‐classical’ monocytes (CD14+CD16+), NKT and CD56dimNK cells isolated from human liver, but not on parenchymal or other non‐parenchymal hepatic cell types. Membrane‐bound uPAR was rapidly cleaved from monocytes upon inflammatory stimulation by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and partially by co‐cultured lymphocytes.

Conclusions

Similar to its prognostic properties in patients with sepsis or cirrhosis, intrahepatic uPAR activation and serum suPAR concentrations might serve as an interesting biomarker in ALF.
Reappraisal of serum alpha‐foetoprotein as a surveillance test for hepatocellular carcinoma during entecavir treatment
Authors: Kim Gi‐Ae , Seock Chang Hyeon , Park Jang Won , An Jihyun , Lee Kwang‐Sun , Yang Jee Eun , Lim Young‐Suk , Kim Kang Mo , Shim Ju Hyun , Lee Danbi , Lee Han Chu
Published: February 2014

Background & Aims

The aim of this study was to re‐evaluate the diagnostic performance of alpha‐foetoprotein (AFP) as a surveillance test for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis B virus‐related chronic liver disease who were treated with entecavir (ETV).

Methods

Between January 2007 and August 2012, we analysed 373 treatment‐naïve patients with HBV‐related chronic hepatitis (n = 229) or cirrhosis (n = 144) who were candidates for surveillance test, and were treated with ETV (0.5 mg/day) for longer than 12 months. To minimize the effect of AFP elevation caused by hepatitis activity, serum AFP levels were measured 12 months after the initiation of ETV treatment.

Results

Hepatocellular carcinoma developed in 28 patients (7.5%) during a median follow‐up period of 48.0 months (IQR = 40.5–57.3 months). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for AFP was 0.71 (95% CI = 0.59–0.84). The optimal AFP cut‐off value was 13 ng/ml, leading to a sensitivity of 50.0%, specificity of 98.8%, positive predictive value of 77.8% and negative predictive value of 96.1%. In multivariate Cox analysis, an older age, the presence of cirrhosis and AFP levels of ≥20 ng/ml at 12 months after treatment were found to be significantly associated with an increased incidence of HCC.

Conclusions

The role of serum AFP as a surveillance test should be re‐evaluated in patients with HBV‐related chronic liver diseases who were treated with antiviral therapy.
miR‐181a mediates TGF‐β‐induced hepatocyte EMT and is dysregulated in cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer
Authors: Brockhausen Jennifer , Tay Szun S. , Grzelak Candice A. , Bertolino Patrick , Bowen David G. , d'Avigdor William M. , Teoh Narcy , Pok Sharon , Shackel Nick , Gamble Jennifer R. , Vadas Mathew , McCaughan Geoff W.
Published: February 2014

Background & Aims

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been implicated in the processes of embryogenesis, tissue fibrosis and carcinogenesis. Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) has been identified as a key driver of EMT and plays a key role in the pathogenesis of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim was to identify microRNA (miR) expression in TGF‐β‐induced hepatocyte EMT.

Methods

We treated a human hepatocyte cell line PH5CH8 with TGF‐β to induce an EMT‐like change in phenotype and then identified dysregulated miRs using TaqMan Low Density Arrays. MiR expression was altered using miR‐181a mimic and inhibitor in the same system and gene changes were identified using TaqMan gene arrays. MiR‐181a gene expression was measured in human and mouse cirrhotic or HCC liver tissue samples. Gene changes were identified in rAAV‐miR‐181a‐expressing mouse livers using TaqMan gene arrays.

Results

We identified miR‐181a as a miR that was significantly up‐regulated in response to TGF‐β treatment. Over‐expression of a miR‐181a mimic induced an in vitro EMT‐like change with a phenotype similar to that seen with TGF‐β treatment alone and was reversed using a miR‐181a inhibitor. MiR‐181a was shown to be up‐regulated in experimental and human cirrhotic and HCC tissue. Mouse livers expressing rAAV‐miR‐181a showed genetic changes associated with TGF‐β signalling and EMT.

Conclusions

MiR‐181a had a direct effect in inducing hepatocyte EMT and was able to replace TGF‐β‐induced effects in vitro. MiR‐181a was over‐expressed in cirrhosis and HCC and is likely to play a role in disease pathogenesis.
High‐Volume Lesions Using a New Second‐Generation Open Irrigation Radiofrequency Catheter Are Associated with the Development of Inhomogeneous Lesions
Authors: AKCA FERDI , HUBAY MARTHA , ZIMA ENDRE , SZÉPLAKI GÁBOR , VÉGH ESZTER M. , SKOPÁL JUDIT , LENDVAI ZSUZSANNA , THEUNS DOMINIC , MERKELY BELA , SZILI‐TOROK TAMAS
Published: February 2014

Background

After catheter ablation there is often a discrepancy between acute and chronic success rates. We aimed to evaluate major determinants for lesion quality and understand different manifestations of lesion structures.

Methods

In a canine thigh muscle model radiofrequency (RF) current was delivered for 60 seconds at 30 W (n = 39) or 50 W (n = 18) with 15‐g contact force. A second‐generation 12‐hole gold open irrigation catheter (SGIT) and a first‐generation six‐hole platinum‐iridium catheter (FGIT; Biotronik, Berlin, Germany) were used. Electrode and tissue temperatures (at the surface and 3.5‐mm and 7‐mm depth) were recorded and lesion dimensions were measured. Lesions with steam pops were excluded. Histological examination was performed to evaluate homogeneity of the lesions. Inhomogeneity was defined as a visual multiband lesion pattern indicating different histological characteristics.

Results

In total 57 lesions were created. Seventeen lesions were excluded (steam pops) and 40 lesions were analyzed. A total number of 11 homogeneous and 29 inhomogeneous lesions were identified. Using the SGIT catheter 16.7% of the lesions was homogeneous and 83.3% inhomogeneous; for FGIT it was 43.8% and 56.2% (P = 0.065), respectively. Homogeneous lesions had lower volumes as compared to inhomogeneous lesions (514.0 ± 198.8 vs 914.8 ± 399.1 mm, P = 0.003). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the SGIT catheter is a significant predictor for inhomogeneous lesions (odds ratio 6.5, 95% confidence interval 1.1–38.8; P = 0.040) independent from power setting and flow rate.

Conclusions

The development of inhomogeneous lesions after acute RF ablation is associated with higher lesion volumes and the use of the second‐generation irrigation gold‐tip catheter.
Cord blood LC‐PUFA composition and allergic diseases during the first 10 yr. Results from the LISAplus study
Authors: Standl Marie , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold , Heinrich Joachim
Published: February 2014

Background

It has been suggested that n‐6 and n‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PUFAs) in blood are associated with risk of allergic diseases, although results are inconclusive. Low levels of n‐6 LC‐PUFA and high levels of n‐3 LC‐PUFA are anticipated to have beneficial effects. Pregnancy is considered a critical time period for imprinting the developing immune system. We examined whether n‐6 LC‐PUFA, n‐3 LC‐PUFA concentrations or the n‐6/n‐3 ratio in cord blood (CB) serum are associated with allergic diseases up to the age of 10 yr.

Methods

This analysis included 436 children from the Munich LISAplus birth cohort study. Information on doctor‐diagnosed asthma, hay fever/allergic rhinitis, and eczema was collected using questionnaires completed at the ages 6 and 10 yr, and for eczema additionally at 2 yr. Specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) against inhalant allergens was measured at 6 and 10 yr. Fatty acid composition was measured by gas chromatography in serum from CB and from blood collected at 2, 6, and 10 yr. Associations between n‐3, n‐6 LC‐PUFA concentrations, and the n‐6/n‐3 ratio in CB serum and allergic diseases or atopy were assessed using generalized estimating equations (GEE) considering the longitudinal structure. Models were adjusted for LC‐PUFA concentrations at follow‐up and potential confounding factors.

Results

There was no significant association between n‐3 LC‐PUFA, n‐6 LC‐PUFA, or the n‐6/n‐3 ratio in CB serum with eczema, asthma, hay fever/allergic rhinitis, or aeroallergen sensitization.

Conclusions

There is no indication of a beneficial effect of increased n‐3 LC‐PUFA in CB serum on the development of any of the disease entities.
Leishmania braziliensis amastigotes stimulate production of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10 and TGF‐β by peripheral blood mononuclear cells from nonendemic area healthy residents
Authors: Gomes C. M. , Ávila L. R. , Pinto S. A. , Duarte F. B. , Pereira L. I. A. , Abrahamsohn I. A. , Dorta M. L. , Vieira L. Q. , Ribeiro‐Dias F. , Oliveira M. A. P.
Published: February 2014

Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis causes cutaneous and mucosal leishmaniasis in several countries in Latin America. In mammals, the parasites live as amastigotes, interacting with host immune cells and stimulating cytokine production that will drive the type of the specific immune responses. Generation of Th17 lymphocytes is associated with tissue destruction and depends on IL‐1β, IL‐6, TGF‐β and IL‐23 production, whereas IL‐10 and TGF‐β are associated with tissue protection. Here, we evaluate whether amastigotes stimulate peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy donors to produce the major cytokines responsible for the generation of Th17. Seven L. (V.) braziliensis isolates from patients with different clinical forms of leishmaniasis were expanded in interferon‐γ knockout mice to obtain amastigotes and in culture to get promastigotes. The parasites were used to stimulate PBMCs from healthy donors, and cytokine production was evaluated by ELISA or qPCR. Amastigotes and promastigotes induced IL‐10 production in PBMCs; however, only amastigotes induced IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TGF‐β. These data demonstrate for the first time that L. (V.) braziliensis amastigotes directly stimulate production of a unique pattern of cytokines that could contribute to the generation of Th17.
Experimental Analysis of Various Types of Road Intersections for Interchange Detection
Authors: Zhou Qi , Li Zhilin
Published: February 2014

Road interchanges are a major pattern type in road networks. Recognition of road interchanges benefits automated road network generalization, car navigation and traffic flow analysis. This study first investigated several existing approaches to automatically detecting interchanges in a road network, and determined that the recognition of characteristic road intersections is essential for the effective detection of interchanges. Several experiments were carried out to investigate nine types of road intersections for interchange detection and to analyze characteristic ones. Furthermore, an approach to the detection of both intersections and segments of interchanges was proposed and validated. The road networks across different scales were tested and results show that: (1) the T‐shaped and Cross‐shaped junctions are very common in road networks, but they are not the most characteristic ones for interchange detection; (2) the y‐shaped, Y‐shaped types, X‐shaped, Fork‐shaped and Multi‐leg may be the characteristic types for interchange detection; (3) the proposed approach to detecting interchanges is effective, and most of the intersections and segments of interchanges can be detected. In addition, taking multiple characteristic types into consideration for interchange detection is suggested.
Fully-Nonlinear Wave-Current-Body Interaction Analysis by a Harmonic Polynomial Cell Method
Authors: Shao Yan-Lin , Faltinsen Odd M.
Published: February 2014

A new numerical 2D cell method has been proposed by the authors, based on representing the velocity potential in each cell by harmonic polynomials. The method was named the harmonic polynomial cell (HPC) method. The method was later extended to 3D to study potential-flow problems in marine hydrodynamics. With the considered number of unknowns that are typical in marine hydrodynamics, the comparisons with some existing boundary element- based methods, including the fast multipole accelerated boundary element methods, showed that the HPC method is very competitive in terms of both accuracy and efficiency. The HPC method has also been applied to study fully-nonlinear wave-body interactions; for example, sloshing in tanks, nonlinear waves over different sea-bottom topographies, and nonlinear wave diffraction by a bottom-mounted vertical circular cylinder. However, no current effects were considered. In this paper, we study the fully-nonlinear time-domain wave-body interaction considering the current effects. In order to validate and verify the method, a bottom-mounted vertical circular cylinder, which has been studied extensively in the literature, will first be examined. Comparisons are made with the published numerical results and experimental results. As a further application, the HPC method will be used to study multiple bottom-mounted cylinders. An example of the wave diffraction of two bottom-mounted cylinders is also presented.
System Synthesis and Controller Design of a Novel Pump Controlled Steer-by-Wire System Employing Modern Control Techniques
Authors: Daher N. , Ivantysynova M.
Published: February 2014

The demand for power steering systems primarily stemmed from the need for providing assistance to operators in achieving their heading directions, especially as transportation vehicles kept growing in size and mass. While the main requirements for the primitive systems were adequate assistance levels and acceptable controllability, today’s requirements are much different. Given the increased awareness and attention to energy efficiency, productivity, and safety, the field for researching alternative technologies is virtually open. Present-day power steering architectures include hydraulic, electric, and electro-hydraulic structures, which vary based on their energy source, energy transmission, and energy management schemes. Hydraulic power steering is plagued with poor energy efficiency mainly due to throttling losses associated with hydraulic control valves. Electric power steering systems offer better energy efficiency with on-demand power supply and result in improved packaging constraints, but suffer from power limitations at larger scales. State-of-the-art electrohydraulic steering systems take advantage of the high power density and efficiency of fluid power, but use electronically controlled valves that still suffer from energy inefficiency.

This paper introduces a novel electro-hydraulic power steering system that utilizes a proven energy-saving technology, pump displacement control (DC), which eliminates throttling losses associated with hydraulic control valves by controlling the displacement of a variable displacement pump. DC has been applied to the working hydraulics of mobile machines, active vibration damping, and machine power management strategies. However, for the first time this technology is being investigated and applied to steering systems, which presents a unique opportunity to solve the pressing challenges and highlight the benefits of such systems. A DC steering system lends itself to high energy efficiency (lower fuel consumption/emissions), greater machine productivity and reduced operator fatigue, and active safety for counteracting instabilities. The paper presents the new concept; reviews the dynamic models of the hydraulics subsystem and the dynamics subsystem; summarizes the system synthesis with focus on stability; and finally describes the primary controller design based on modern control techniques via state space formulation and full state feedback methods. To allow for designing a controller at the system level, vehicle dynamics equations of motion and pressure-flow equations are merged together to form a single-input single-output (SISO) system with the desired input and output in mind. Simulation results are provided to validate the control algorithm relative to the specified performance requirements.
An Approach for Second Order Control With Finite Time Convergence for Electro-Hydraulic Drives
Authors: Schmidt Lasse , Andersen Torben O. , Pedersen Henrik C.
Published: February 2014

Being a second order sliding algorithm, the super twisting algorithm is highly attractive for application in control of hydraulic drives and mechanical systems in general, as it utilizes only the control error while driving the control error as well as its derivative to zero for properly chosen algorithm parameters. However a discontinuous term internally in the control structure may excite pressures of transmission lines in hydraulic drives as the control structure strives to maintain the control error and its derivative equal to zero. In this paper a modified version of a controller based on the super twisting algorithm is proposed, with the focus of eliminating the discontinuous term in order to achieve a more smooth control operation. The convergence properties of the proposed controller are analyzed via a conservative phase plane analysis. Furthermore, homogeneity considerations imply finite time convergence of states to the origin under certain model assumptions. Results demonstrate the smooth control operation compared to the direct super twisting control approach while maintaining robustness properties in relation to position tracking of a hydraulic drive, under parameter perturbations, uncertainties and un-modeled dynamics.
Second Order Sliding Control With State Dependent Gain and its Application to a Hydraulic Drive
Authors: Schmidt Lasse , Andersen Torben O. , Pedersen Henrik C.
Published: February 2014

The application of sliding modes for control of hydraulic drives appear promising due to strong robustness toward plant uncertainties and disturbances. Especially high order sliding modes may be successfully implemented avoiding the discontinuous control seen in first order sliding controls. However, the very feature of switching about the control target may be undesirable due to finite sampling time and actuator dynamics, and may cause oscillating flow line pressures. This paper discusses a second order sliding controller based on the so-called prescribed convergence algorithm, when used for chattering elimination in hydraulic drive control applications. For this usage the algorithm suffers from poor convergence properties unless a high control gain is chosen, which in turn increases pressure oscillations. To negotiate the combined challenge the controller is extended with a proportional term for improved convergence speed, and the gain of the discontinuous control is made variable according to the control target itself. It is shown that the control error and its derivative are globally convergent to a vicinity of the target via Lyapunov arguments, with accuracy dependent on control parameters, and finite time convergence properties are considered via homogeneity reasoning. Results demonstrate improved control operation compared to the basic algorithm when implemented for position tracking control of a hydraulic drive.
Hydrostatic Transmission for Wind Turbines: An Old Concept, New Dynamics
Authors: Schmitz Johannes , Vukovic Milos , Murrenhoff Hubertus
Published: February 2014

Hydrostatic drives are commonly used in mobile machinery. A new application for this technology is the renewable energy sector, especially wind power. Despite using the same basic components the dynamics of these new drive systems are somewhat different compared to those used in mobile applications. In order to design an appropriate control system for a wind turbine it is necessary to understand these differences and how they affect the system. In this paper, the system behavior of a hydrostatic transmission for wind turbines is compared to commonly used hydrostatic drives in mobile machinery. The analysis begins by explaining that the characteristics of the loading acting on a turbine are fundamentally different to the load torque present in a standard application. Using mathematical models of both systems these differences are highlighted and discussed with special reference to how changes in system parameters can affect stability and lead to non-minimum phase behavior. These theoretical results are validated using measurements of a 1 MW hydrostatic transmission installed on a test bench.