bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidant systems of minimally processed cactus stems (Opuntia ficus‐indica Mill.) packaged under modified atmospheres
Authors: Ventura‐Aguilar Rosa I. , Rivera‐Cabrera Fernando , Méndez‐Iturbide Daniel , Pelayo‐Zaldívar Clara , Bosquez‐Molina Elsa
Published: August 2013

The aim of this work was to determine the enzymatic activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) together with the total phenolic and carotenoid contents and antioxidant capacity of two cultivars of cactus stems under modified atmosphere packaging containing a passive atmosphere, an active (with N2) atmosphere and control (unsealed polyurethane trays) all stored at 4 ± 1 °C. Results indicated that Atlixco cultivar cactus stems had a shelf life that was twice as long (20 days) than that of Milpa Alta cultivar under N2 MAP. The total enzyme activities of SOD, APX and CAT as well as the carotenoid content were higher in Atlixco than in Milpa Alta. The antioxidant enzymatic and non‐enzymatic systems as well as the antioxidant capacity and the phenolic content retention determined in Atlixco cactus stems under N2 MAP appear to explain the longer postharvest life of this cultivar.
In vitro intestinal absorption of amino acid mixtures extracted from codfish (Gadus morhua L.) salting wastewater
Authors: Ferraro Vincenza , Ferreira Jorge Ruben , Cruz Isabel B. , Antunes Filipa , Sarmento Bruno , Castro Paula M. L. , Pintado Manuela E.
Published: August 2013

This study reports on the intestinal permeability of salt‐containing mixtures of amino acids extracted from codfish salting wastewater. Permeability was evaluated in vitro using the Caco‐2 cell line model; cell integrity during exposure to mixtures of amino acids was estimated by measuring the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). The effect of salt (NaCl) on the permeability and on the intestinal cell's integrity was also examined. Permeation rate (i.e. transport) was ≥95% for all amino acids except for creatine, for which it was 6%. Values for apparent permeability coefficients, Papp > 10−5 cm s−1, for mixture with isotonic concentration of NaCl suggest that amino acids are very likely to be absorbed in humans. Mixture with a hypertonic level of NaCl exerts a cytotoxic effect in intestinal cells resulting in a loss of epithelium integrity. Results show that isotonic mixture of amino acids extracted from codfish salting wastewater could be used in food, feed, cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. These applications could contribute to the fish industry sustainability.
Impact of emergency access targets on admissions to general medicine: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nash L. , Tacey M. , Liew D. , Jones C. , Truesdale M. , Russell D.
Published: August 2013

Background

Emergency access targets have been implemented Australia‐wide following recent retrospective cohort studies linking emergency department (ED) overcrowding and excess mortality.

Aim

To examine the impact of ED access targets on the characteristics and health service utilisation of general medicine (GM) inpatients at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on all patient episodes admitted from ED to GM units from January 2009 to December 2012 (n = 15562), compared in two cohorts for 24 months before (n = 7393) and after (n = 8169) the implementation of the ‘4‐h rule’. The main outcome measures were age, comorbidity, clinical urgency at presentation (Australasian Triage Score), ED and inpatient length of stay, diagnosis at discharge, and in‐hospital complications.

Results

After the implementation of the ‘4‐h rule’, there was an increased proportion of younger patients aged ≤50 years (7.7–9.1%), urgent Australasian Triage Scale 3 (45.6–49.7%) and semi‐urgent Australasian Triage Scale 4 (21.8–27.6%) patients admitted to GM. On average, GM patients had fewer comorbid conditions (proportion with Charlson score ≥6 decreased from 14.2% to 11.9%), and higher proportions (21.8–24.7%) were admitted for less than 48 h.

Conclusion

Implementation of a 4‐h access target has been associated with changes to the characteristics of patients admitted to GM, including higher proportions of younger patients, with fewer comorbid conditions and lower clinical urgency at presentation, although the latter may be explained by a coincidental change in the way that ED patients were triaged, as well as a greater number of these patients presenting to ED overall.
THE PLANNING ENVIRONMENT OF NON‐GOVERNMENT ORGANISATIONS INVOLVED IN THE PROVISION OF SOCIAL CARE TO ELDERLY QUEENSLANDERS
Authors: Brown C. , Davey J. , Halladay A.
Published: August 2013

Synopsis

Despite the importance of the non‐government sector as a major provider of social care for the elderly, its planning and administrative sphere remains relatively uncharted. Planners and administrators from nine Queensland non‐government organisations shared perceptions of their planning environment. While government resources and program guidelines influence their work, they claim their autonomy is not eroded. Governments could facilitate their work by generating needs data, establishing joint planning structures and ensuring territorial justice. The authors argue that if governments presume non‐government organisations are simply vehicles for the implementation of government plans, their potential as response systems for elderly people will not be realized.
TRAINING NURSES TO SUPPORT GREATER PATIENT ENGAGEMENT IN HAEMODIALYSIS
Authors: Barnes Tania , Hancock Katy , Dainton Marissa
Published: August 2013

Background

Evidence supports the view that people with long term conditions who are encouraged to take a greater interest in their treatment can experience a range of health benefits. Traditionally centre‐based haemodialysis patients have been passive recipients whilst nurses have been deliverers of care. The Shared Haemodialysis Care (SHC) programme changes this relationship.

Objective

Our aim was to initiate a programme of education in SHC across Yorkshire and Humber in North England, with its objective to support centre‐based patients to take on aspects of their own treatment.

Design & Participants

A three tiered training model was designed to educate all grades of nursing staff. Central to this approach was the development of a four day competency based course aimed at training 25% of junior sisters/charge nurses, staff nurses and Level 3 health care assistants (unqualified nurses).

Measurements/approach

We measured the number of staff trained and assessed staff knowledge using a pre and post course questionnaire. Individual course day evaluations and ‘Light bulb moment ‘sessions captured qualitative data and a census form relating to interest in and uptake of SHC captured patient engagement data.

Results

The pre and post delegate questionnaires from every cohort have demonstrated significant positive shifts in all the objectives of the training programme. The target of 25% of staff trained has been reached in all but one group of units. A third of all patients across Yorkshire and Humber are significantly engaged in their haemodialysis care.

Conclusion

A nurse‐led education programme can provide nurse participants with the tools to encourage and support patients to become more engaged in their haemodialysis treatment.
HOW TO DEVELOP A PATIENT AND CARER ADVISORY GROUP IN A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT STUDY
Authors: Loud Fiona , Jain Neerja , Thomas Nicola
Published: August 2013

Background

This paper explores how a group of people with renal or other vascular conditions collaborated with renal practitioners in undertaking a quality improvement project, the aim of which was to reduce variation in care for people with Stages 3–4 chronic kidney disease.

Development and Role of the Group

The patient advisory group supporting the project took a decisive and leading role in the creation of self‐management materials and subsequent training for healthcare professionals and patients. The role of the patient advisory group was evaluated informally throughout the project. Confidence amongst the patient advisory group members grew as the project developed.

Conclusion

Clinicians are often unclear on how to involve patients and carers in quality improvement projects, yet it is increasingly recognised as important. In practice, patients with experience of long‐term conditions can co‐lead quality improvement projects. It is recommended that further evaluation of the role of advisory groups is warranted.
Respecting Autonomy Through the Use of Force: the Case of Civil Disobedience
Authors: Moraro Piero
Published: August 2013

Acts of civil disobedience, which imply the open violation of a legal directive, often result in the forceful imposition of a choice upon others (e.g. blockades). This is sometimes justifiable, within a democracy, in cases of ‘democratic deficit’, namely, when fundamental rights of an oppressed minority are at stake. In this article, I claim that the use of physical force, in a democracy, may also be justified by the rights of (at least some of) the very people upon whom force is applied. Focusing on the nature of civil disobedience as a ‘form of address’, I argue: (1) using physical force to address others in the democratic arena does not entail infringing upon their status as autonomous agents; (2) using physical force to address others in the democratic arena may contribute to the fulfilment of a positive duty to promote the autonomy of (at least some of) those very people upon whom force is applied. This is not a defence of paternalism: I claim that using force against others, in the democratic arena, may be constitutive of a behaviour that treats others with the respect due to their status as autonomous agents.
A rare occurrence of reversal in the common megrim Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis (Pleuronectiformes: Scophthalmidae) in the northern North Sea
Authors: MacDonald P.
Published: August 2013

An adult (231 mm standard length, LS; 371 mm total length, LT), dextral (right‐sided) common megrim Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis is reported from the northern North Sea. This is the first recorded occurrence of reversal in this species. Other than its reversed asymmetry, the specimen had morphological and meristic characteristics similar to those of non‐reversed individuals of the same species.
A survey on Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae infections in Slovene fresh waters
Authors: Jenčič V , Zajc U , Kušar D , Ocepek M , Pate M
Published: August 2013

Slovenia has no history of health problems related to proliferative kidney disease (PKD) either in farmed or in wild fish. However, due to the past molecular evidence for the presence of Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae DNA in tissues of some fish from open waters, a survey was conducted on wild salmonids that were primarily sampled for other purposes. In winter 2010–2011, specimens from a total of 244 rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), and brown trout, Salmo trutta L., from 30 bodies of fresh water were examined for T. bryosalmonae using a PCR method. The sampled fish showed no clinical signs or gross pathological lesions characteristic of PKD. Nineteen (7.8%) fish from seven (23.3%) fresh waters were positive for T. bryosalmonae. The identity of PCR amplicons was confirmed by sequencing. With one exception, all the positive fish were found in waters from the regions where the average yearly temperatures and the environmental pollution are higher. This preliminary countrywide survey provided the first insight into the situation regarding T. bryosalmonae infection of wild salmonids in Slovenia.
Characterization and Fine Mapping of a Novel Rice Narrow Leaf Mutant nal9
Authors: Li Wei , Wu Chao , Hu Guocheng , Xing Li , Qian Wenjing , Si Huamin , Sun Zongxiu , Wang Xingchun , Fu Yaping , Liu Wenzhen
Published: August 2013

A narrow leaf mutant was isolated from transgenic rice (Oryza sativa L.) lines carrying a T‐DNA insertion. The mutant is characterized by narrow leaves during its whole growth period, and was named nal9 (narrow leaf 9). The mutant also has other phenotypes, such as light green leaves at the seedling stage, reduced plant height, a small panicle and increased tillering. Genetic analysis revealed that the mutation is controlled by a single recessive gene. A hygromycin resistance assay showed that the mutation was not caused by T‐DNA insertion, so a map‐based cloning strategy was employed to isolate the nal9 gene. The mutant individuals from the F2 generations of a cross between the nal9 mutant and Longtepu were used for mapping. With 24 F2 mutants, the nal9 gene was preliminarily mapped near the marker RM156 on the chromosome 3. New INDEL markers were then designed based on the sequence differences between japonica and indica at the region near RM156. The nal9 gene was finally located in a 69.3 kb region between the markers V239B and V239G within BAC OJ1212_C05 by chromosome walking. Sequence and expression analysis showed that an ATP‐dependent Clp protease proteolytic subunit gene (ClpP) was most likely to be the nal9 gene. Furthermore, the nal9 mutation was rescued by transformation of the ClpP cDNA driven by the 35S promoter. Accordingly, the ClpP gene was identified as the NAL9 gene. Our results provide a basis for functional studies of NAL9 in future work.
Is Postdilatation with a Noncompliant Balloon Necessary after Coronary Stent Deployment during Primary Angioplasty?
Authors: TASAL ABDURRAHMAN , BACAKSIZ AHMET , VATANKULU MEHMET AKIF , TURFAN MURAT , ERDOGAN ERCAN , SONMEZ OSMAN , KUL SEREF , ERTAS GOKHAN , SEVGILI EMRAH , GOKTEKIN OMER
Published: August 2013

Background

Postdilatation (PD) with noncompliant balloon during elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is performed usually in clinical practice in order to optimize stent expansion. However, current knowledge about its use in patients undergoing primary PCI is controversial. This study aims to evaluate the angiographical and clinical results of PD in patients who underwent primary PCI with drug eluting stents (DESs).

Methods

A total of 405 consecutive patients (mean age 56.9 ± 12.3 years; 302 male) with ST elevation myocardial infarction were evaluated retrospectively. Patients received DES with or without predilatation according to physician's discretion. Eligible patients were divided into 2 groups based on PD procedure. The clinical end‐points were death, target vessel revascularization (TVR) and stent thrombosis at 6 months after PCI. The angiographic end‐points were postprocedural correct Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) frame count (cTFC), final TIMI flow, and myocardial blush grade (MBG).

Results

PD was performed in 214 patients (52.8%). Angiographical parameters such as TIMI flow, cTFC, and MBG did not differ after PD (P > 0.05). During 6‐month follow‐up, TVR and stent thrombosis rates were lower in the PD group (6 vs. 16, P = 0.03; and 3 vs. 10, P = 0.04, respectively). PD and diabetes were detected as independent predictors of MACE (β = 0.52, P = 0.01, and β = −0.47, P = 0.02; respectively).

Conclusion

Our study revealed that PD does not yield adverse effects on final angiographic parameters when performed during primary PCI. Besides PD seems to decrease probability of stent thrombosis and TVR.
First Clinical Experience With Celt ACD®: A Femoral Arterial Puncture Closure Device
Authors: JAN AFTAB , CREAN PETER , BULLESFELD LUTZ , COLEMAN JAMES , GRUBE EBERHARD , MULVIHILL NIALL
Published: August 2013

Introduction

This prospective nonrandomized study compared the safety and efficacy of a novel arterial closure device (ACD) in common femoral artery procedures to that of the FDA submitted historical manual pressure control group, who underwent either a diagnostic angiogram (DA) or a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedure.

Methods and Results

A total of 55 patients were enrolled in this study of the novel ACD. Of the 55 patients, 39 were enrolled in the DA group and 16 were enrolled in the PCI group. Six patients were excluded. A device was deployed in 49 patients. Time to hemostasis (TTH), time to ambulation (TTA), device function, and device‐related vascular complications were measured. In the device group, the TTH for the combined DA and PCI patients was 32 seconds (0.54 ± 0.93 minutes), significantly lower when compared with 16.0 ± 12.2 minutes (P < 0.0001) for the control group. Overall major vascular complication rate did not differ significantly, device group (1/49) and the historical control group (1/217). TTA in the combined PCI and DA device group was 226.4 ± 231.9 at the German site (site ambulation policy). In the Irish site, the average TTA in the PCI group was 187 minutes (n = 8) and 85 minutes (n = 14) in the DA group.

Conclusion

The Celt ACD® device is safe, effective, and significantly decreases the TTH compared to manual pressure and has a low vascular complications rate. The device may be effective in early ambulation and discharge of patients postcoronary intervention procedures.
Simvastatin Decreases Stent‐Induced In‐Stent Restenosis Rate Via Downregulating the Expression of PCNA and Upregulating that of p27kip1
Authors: GAO CHUANYU , XU WENKE , XIAO WENTAO , YU JIE , LI MUWEI
Published: August 2013

Background

The inhibition of the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) is one cholesterol‐independent effect of statins that could lower the rate of in‐stent restenosis (ISR), even if the exact mechanism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the exact inhibitory mechanisms of simvastatin on ISR in vivo.

Methods

Forty‐five rabbits were randomized into 3 feeding groups of equal size (n = 15): normal rabbit chow (normal group), a high‐cholesterol diet (control group), and a simvastatin‐enriched high‐cholesterol diet (simvastatin group). Balloon de‐endothelialization was first performed in the control and simvastatin groups after 3 days, followed by stent deployment at week 14. All rabbits were killed at week 18, and the histological changes of the ISR segments were observed. The expressions of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p27 (p27kip1), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and α‐smooth muscle (α‐SM) actin were measured.

Results

In the simvastatin group compared to the control group, the neointimal thickness, neointimal area, and degree of stenosis decreased, while the residual lumen area increased significantly (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of α‐SM actin in the control group decreased by 55.4% compared to the normal group, while it increased by 29.7% with respect to the simvastatin group (P < 0.05). Finally, the expression of p27kip1 increased, while that of PCNA decreased significantly in the simvastatin group compared to the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Simvastatin may inhibit VSMC phenotype modulation and proliferation by downregulating the expression of PCNA and upregulating that of p27kip1.
Maternal Uterine Vascular Remodeling During Pregnancy
Authors: Osol George , Moore Lorna G.
Published: August 2013

Remodeling of the maternal uterine vasculature during pregnancy is a unique cardiovascular process that occurs in the adult and results in significant structural and functional changes in large and small arteries and veins, and in the creation of the placenta—a new fetomaternal vascular organ. This expansive, hypertrophic process results in increases in both lumen circumference and length, and is effected through a combination of tissue and cellular hypertrophy, endothelial and vascular smooth muscle hyperplasia, and matrix remodeling. This review summarizes what is currently known about the time course and extent of the remodeling process, and how local vs. systemic factors influence its genesis. The main focus is on upstream maternal vessels rather than spiral artery changes, although the latter are considered from the overall hemodynamic perspective. We also consider some of the underlying mechanisms and provide a hypothetical scenario that integrates our current knowledge. Abrogation of this adaptive vascular process is associated with several human gestational pathologies such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), which not only raise the risk of infant mortality and morbidity but are also a significant source of maternal mortality and susceptibility to cardiovascular and other diseases for both mother and neonate later in life.
Cooperative and allosterically controlled nucleotide binding regulates the DNA binding activity of NrdR
Authors: McKethan Brandon L. , Spiro Stephen
Published: August 2013

Ribonucleotide reductases (RNRs) are required for the synthesis of deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs) from ribonucleotides. In Escherichia coli, regulation of RNR expression is co‐ordinated with the cell cycle, and involves several regulatory proteins. One of these, NrdR, has recently been shown to regulate all three nrd operons that encode RNR isoenzymes. Repression by NrdR is believed to be stimulated by elevated dNTPs, although there is no direct evidence for this model. Here, we sought to elucidate the mechanism by which NrdR regulates nrd expression according to the abundance of (d)NTPs. We determined that ATP and dATP bind to NrdR in a negatively cooperative fashion, such that neither can fully occupy the protein. Both nucleotides also appear to act as positive heterotropic effectors, since the binding of one stimulates binding of the other. Nucleotide binding stimulates self‐association of NrdR, with tri‐ and diphosphates stimulating oligomerization more effectively than monophosphates. As‐prepared NrdR contains (deoxy)nucleoside monophosphates, diphosphates and triphosphates, and its DNA binding activity is inhibited by triphosphates and diphosphates but not by monophosphates. We propose a model in which NrdR selectively binds (deoxy)nucleoside triphosphates, which are hydrolysed to their monophosphate counterparts in order to regulate DNA binding.
Tonsillectomy ameliorates histological damage of recurrent immunoglobulin A nephropathy after kidney transplantation
Authors: Hotta Kiyohiko , Fukasawa Yuichiro , Akimoto Mayuko , Tanabe Tatsu , Sasaki Hajime , Fukuzawa Nobuyuki , Seki Toshimori , Togashi Masaki , Harada Hiroshi
Published: August 2013

Aim

Recurrence of immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) after renal transplantation is important as a cause of graft failure under improving rejection control. However, no specific therapy for recurrent IgAN is currently available. In this study, we evaluated the histological efficacy of tonsillectomy for allograft IgAN.

Methods

Fifteen kidney recipients (male 9, female 6, mean age 40.9 ± 9.3 years), who received a diagnosis of IgA nephropathy by allograft biopsy, were enrolled in this study. Tonsillectomy was performed 44.1 ± 27.1 months after the kidney transplantation. All patients underwent a repeat graft biopsy at 23.8 ± 15.8 months after tonsillectomy.

Results

Six patients had microhematuria before tonsillectomy. At 12 months after treatment, the microhematuria disappeared in five of these patients and one patient had mild hematuria. Three patients had severe proteinuria (more than 1.0 g/gCr) before tonsillectomy and improved after treatment. On histological analysis, four patients had acute lesions including cellular or fibrocellular crescents. The acute lesions disappeared after these treatments in all patients. Eleven patients had chronic lesions including global sclerosis, segmental sclerosis and fibrous crescents. The chronic lesion was ameliorated in six patients, unchanged in three and deteriorated in two patients.

Conclusions

Tonsillectomy improves not only clinical findings but also ameliorates histological damage caused by recurrent IgAN after kidney transplantation. Tonsillectomy is a novel and effective treatment for recurrent IgAN.
Mucosal microfolds augment mixing at the wall of the distal ileum of the brushtail possum
Authors: Lentle R. G. , Janssen P. W. M. , DeLoubens C. , Lim Y. F. , Hulls C. , Chambers P.
Published: August 2013

Background

Recent work suggests that mixing in the small intestine takes place in central luminal and peripheral compartments. However, while movements of villi have been described, the mechanisms by which peripheral mixing are engendered remain unclear.

Methods

We examined the disposition and movement of mucosa and associated villi during contractions of the everted terminal ileum of the brushtail possum. We then simulated the effect of these movements on peripheral mixing.

Key Results

Compression of the intestinal mucosa by phasic longitudinal or radial contractions created short‐lived microfolds, which were of similar scale to the attached villi. The packing density of the villous tips increased in the concavities and decreased on the crests of these microfolds. Simulations showed that these caused liquid digesta to be expelled from, or drawn into, intervillous spaces, significantly augmenting peripheral, but not bulk, luminal mixing.

Conclusions & Inferences

We describe a mechanism by which peripheral mixing may be engendered by mucosal microfolds without requiring the coordinated contraction of individual villi or groups of villi.
SOCIAL CAPITAL, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND THE QUALITY OF GOVERNMENT: HOW INTERACTION BETWEEN SOCIAL CAPITAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AFFECTS THE QUALITY OF GOVERNMENT
Authors: DOH SOOGWAN
Published: August 2013

This study investigates the relationship between social capital and governmental quality by considering the relationship between social capital and economic development in a cross‐section of countries. It is shown that countries with both high levels of social capital and economic development exhibit higher quality of government as measured by government effectiveness, rule of law, impartiality, professionalism, and a governmental quality index. It is also shown that countries with both high levels of social capital and low levels of economic development are associated with higher governmental quality as measured by professionalism. These findings question the use of heterogeneous indicators for governmental quality and show that the relationship between social capital and the quality of government depends on the level of economic development. Thus, the importance of the level of economic development in explaining the variation in the quality of government sheds light on the social capital theories of governmental qualities.
Comparative transcriptomics as a tool for the identification of root branching genes in maize
Authors: Jansen Leentje , Hollunder Jens , Roberts Ianto , Forestan Cristian , Fonteyne Philippe , Van Quickenborne Charlotte , Zhen Rui‐Guang , McKersie Bryan , Parizot Boris , Beeckman Tom
Published: August 2013

The root system is fundamental for plant development, is crucial for overall plant growth and is recently being recognized as the key for future crop productivity improvement. A major determinant of root system architecture is the initiation of lateral roots. While knowledge of the genetic and molecular mechanisms regulating lateral root initiation has mainly been achieved in the dicotyledonous plant Arabidopsis thaliana, only scarce data are available for major crop species, generally monocotyledonous plants. The existence of both similarities and differences at the morphological and anatomical level between plant species from both clades raises the question whether regulation of lateral root initiation may or may not be conserved through evolution. Here, we performed a targeted genome‐wide transcriptome analysis during lateral root initiation both in primary and in adventitious roots of Zea mays and found evidence for the existence of common transcriptional regulation. Further, based on a comparative analysis with Arabidopsis transcriptome data, a core of genes putatively conserved across angiosperms could be identified. Therefore, it is plausible that common regulatory mechanisms for lateral root initiation are at play in maize and Arabidopsis, a finding that might encourage the extrapolation of knowledge obtained in Arabidopsis to crop species at the level of root system architecture.
Why do we need to use a zero reference? Reference influences on the ERPs of audiovisual effects
Authors: Tian Yin , Yao Dezhong
Published: August 2013

Using ERPs in the audiovisual stimulus, the current study is the first to investigate the influence of the reference on experimental effects (between two conditions). Three references, the average reference (AR), the mean mastoid (MM), and a new infinity zero reference (IR), were comparatively investigated via ERPs, statistical parametric scalp mappings (SPSM), and LORETA. Specifically, for the N1 (170–190 ms), the SPSM results showed an anterior distribution for MM, a posterior distribution for IR, and both anterior and posterior distributions for AR. However, the circumstantial evidence provided by LORETA is consistent with SPSM of IR. These results indicated that the newly developed IR could provide increased accuracy; thus, we recommend IR for future ERP studies.
Corneal collagen cross‐linking as treatment for infectious and noninfectious corneal melting in cats and dogs: results of a prospective, nonrandomized, controlled trial
Authors: Pot Simon A. , Gallhöfer Nicolin S. , Matheis Franziska L. , Voelter‐Ratson Katrin , Hafezi Farhad , Spiess Bernhard M.
Published: August 2013

Objective

UV‐A/Riboflavin cross‐linking of corneal collagen fibers (CXL) is a highly promising therapy for corneal melting in humans. A prospective interventional, nonrandomized, controlled study was conducted to compare the stabilizing effect of CXL treatment on melting keratitis in dogs and cats and the complication rate of CXL to those of standardized intensive medical treatment.

Procedures

Forty‐nine eyes with melting keratitis were included in the study between October 2009 and October 2012. All eyes were treated according to the same medical treatment protocol. Nineteen eyes were CXL‐treated, and 30 eyes were not. Follow‐up included slit‐lamp examination, fluorescein staining, ulcer size measurement, stromal stability evaluation, photographic documentation, and documentation of complications.

Results

Five of 19 eyes in the CXL group and 9/30 eyes in the control group required rescue stabilization due to continued melting. Seven of the nine control group corneas stabilized after rescue CXL treatment. At initial presentation, the ulcers in the canine CXL group were significantly deeper and larger than in the control group. Ulcer deepening during follow‐up was more pronounced in the canine control group than in the canine CXL group. CXL treatment‐related complications were not observed.

Conclusions

Based on the similar failure rates in the control and CXL treatment groups despite the poorer initial situation in the CXL group, the tendency for the ulcers in the control group to deepen and the stabilization of all corneas receiving CXL rescue treatment, we believe that CXL has its place as an adjunctive therapy for melting keratitis in veterinary ophthalmology.
A Stepped-Bar Apparatus for Thermal Resistance Measurements
Authors: Thompson Dakotah R. , Rao Sameer R. , Cola Baratunde A.
Published: August 2013

A stepped-bar apparatus has been designed and constructed to characterize the thermal resistance of materials using steady-state heat transfer techniques. The design of the apparatus is a modification of the ASTM D5470 standard where reference bars of equal cross-sectional area are used to extrapolate surface temperatures and heat flux across a sample of unknown thermal resistance. The design modification involves intentionally oversizing the upper reference bar (URB) of the apparatus to avoid contact area uncertainty due to reference bar misalignment, which is difficult to account for, as well as the high cost that can be associated with equipping the apparatus with precise alignment controls (e.g., pneumatic alignment). Multidimensional heat transfer in the upper reference bar near the sample interface is anticipated using numerical modeling. The resulting nonlinear temperature profile in the upper reference bar is accounted for by fitting a second order regression line through thermocouple readings near the sample interface. The thermal resistances of commercially available thermal gap pads and thermal pastes were measured with the stepped-bar apparatus; the measured values were in good agreement with published results, and exhibited a high degree of reproducibility. The measurement uncertainty of both the standard and stepped-bar apparatus decrease with increased thermocouple precision. Notably, the uncertainty due to reference bar misalignment with the standard apparatus becomes more pronounced as thermocouple precision and the number of thermocouples increases, which suggests that the stepped-bar apparatus would be especially advantageous for enabling accurate, high-precision measurements of very low thermal resistances.
Effect of Specimen-Specific Anisotropic Material Properties in Quantitative Computed Tomography-Based Finite Element Analysis of the Vertebra
Authors: Unnikrishnan Ginu U. , Barest Glenn D. , Berry David B. , Hussein Amira I. , Morgan Elise F.
Published: August 2013

Intra- and inter-specimen variations in trabecular anisotropy are often ignored in quantitative computed tomography (QCT)-based finite element (FE) models of the vertebra. The material properties are typically estimated solely from local variations in bone mineral density (BMD), and a fixed representation of elastic anisotropy (“generic anisotropy”) is assumed. This study evaluated the effect of incorporating specimen-specific, trabecular anisotropy on QCT-based FE predictions of vertebral stiffness and deformation patterns. Orthotropic material properties estimated from microcomputed tomography data (“specimen-specific anisotropy”), were assigned to a large, columnar region of the L1 centrum (n = 12), and generic-anisotropic material properties were assigned to the remainder of the vertebral body. Results were compared to FE analyses in which generic-anisotropic properties were used throughout. FE analyses were also performed on only the columnar regions. For the columnar regions, the axial stiffnesses obtained from the two categories of material properties were uncorrelated with each other (p = 0.604), and the distributions of minimum principal strain were distinctly different (p ≤ 0.022). In contrast, for the whole vertebral bodies in both axial and flexural loading, the stiffnesses obtained using the two categories of material properties were highly correlated (R2 > 0.82, p < 0.001) with, and were no different (p > 0.359) from, each other. Only moderate variations in strain distributions were observed between the two categories of material properties. The contrasting results for the columns versus vertebrae indicate a large contribution of the peripheral regions of the vertebral body to the mechanical behavior of this bone. In companion analyses on the effect of the degree of anisotropy (DA), the axial stiffnesses of the trabecular column (p < 0.001) and vertebra (p = 0.007) increased with increasing DA. These findings demonstrate the need for accurate modeling of the peripheral regions of the vertebral body in analyses of the mechanical behavior of the vertebra.
Effect of Coolant Density on Leading Edge Showerhead Film Cooling Using the Pressure Sensitive Paint Measurement Technique
Authors: Li Shiou-Jiuan , Yang Shang-Feng , Han Je-Chin
Published: August 2013

The density ratio effect on leading edge showerhead film cooling has been studied experimentally using the pressure sensitive paint (PSP) mass transfer analogy method. The leading edge model is a blunt body with a semicylinder and an after body. There are two designs: seven-row and three-row of film cooling holes for simulating a vane and blade, respectively. The film holes are located at 0 (stagnation row), ±15, ±30, and ±45 deg for the seven-row design, and at 0 and ±30 for the three-row design. Four film hole configurations are used for both test designs: radial angle cylindrical holes, compound angle cylindrical holes, radial angle shaped holes, and compound angle shaped holes. The coolant to mainstream density ratio varies from DR = 1.0, 1.5, to 2.0 while the blowing ratio varies from M = 0.5 to 2.1. Experiments were conducted in a low speed wind tunnel with Reynolds number 100,900 based on mainstream velocity and diameter of the cylinder. The mainstream turbulence intensity near the leading edge model is about 7%. The results show the shaped holes have an overall higher film cooling effectiveness than the cylindrical holes, and the radial angle holes are better than the compound angle holes, particularly at a higher blowing ratio. A larger density ratio makes more coolant attach to the surface and increases film protection for all cases. Radial angle shaped holes provide the best film cooling at a higher density ratio and blowing ratio for both designs.
Effects of Jet-To-Target Plate Distance and Reynolds Number on Jet Array Impingement Heat Transfer
Authors: Lee Junsik , Ren Zhong , Haegele Jacob , Potts Geoffrey , Sik Jin Jae , Ligrani Phil , Fox Michael D. , Moon Hee-Koo
Published: August 2013

Data which illustrate the effects of jet-to-target plate distance and Reynolds number on the heat transfer from an array of jets impinging on a flat plate are presented. Considered are Reynolds numbers Rej ranging from 8200 to 52,000 with isentropic jet Mach numbers of approximately 0.1 to 0.2. Jet-to-target plate distances Z of 1.5D, 3.0D, 5.0D, and 8.0D are employed, where D is the impingement hole diameter. Streamwise and spanwise hole spacings are 8D. Local and spatially-averaged Nusselt numbers show strong dependence on the impingement jet Reynolds number for all situations examined. Experimental results also illustrate the dependence of local Nusselt numbers on normalized jet-to-target plate distance, especially for smaller values of this quantity. The observed variations are partially due to accumulating cross-flows produced as the jets advect downstream, as well as the interactions of the vortex structures, which initially form around the jets and then impact and interact as they advect away from stagnation points along the impingement target surface. The highest spatially-averaged Nusselt numbers are present for Z/D = 3.0 for Rej of 8200, 20,900, and 30,000. When Rej = 52,000, spatially-averaged Nusselt numbers increase as Z/D decreases, with the highest value present at Z/D = 1.5.
Experimental Investigation of Performance of an Air Blast Atomizer by Planar Laser Sheet Imaging Technique
Authors: Liu Cunxi , Liu Fuqiang , Mao Yanhui , Mu Yong , Xu Gang
Published: August 2013

It is widely recognized that the fuel-air mixing process is a critical factor in improving combustion efficiency and in minimizing pollutants such as NOx. Enhancement of fuel-air mixing can lead to lower pollutant emissions and greater efficiency. However, swirling flows in lean combustors play the role of fuel-air mixing and flame stability. The complex fluid dynamic phenomena encountered in swirling two-phase flow contribute to the difficulty in complete understanding of the different processes occurring in combustors. Fortunately, optical and laser-based visualization techniques available in our lab are important nonintrusive tools for visualizing flow process, especially for fuel injection and fuel-air mixing. To provide for a better understanding of effects of counter-rotating flow on droplets in atomization process, this study is a detailed characterization of the spray generated by an airblast atomizer by planar laser sheet imaging method. Optical facility for spray diagnostics with fuel planar laser induced fluorescence (fuel-PLIF) method for fuel distribution and particle image velocimetry (PIV) method for the velocity of droplets is used to evaluate the performance of an airblast atomizer. The results show that the performance of secondary atomization is influenced by swirling flow and primary atomization simultaneously; the swirling flow exhibits significant influence on the droplet size and space distribution relative to that of primary atomization. The primary swirling air reopens the spray cone generated by pressure-swirl atomizer, and the secondary swirling air affects the fuel distribution by forming the recirculation zone. The results provide critical information for the design and development of combustion chambers.
Leakage and Rotordynamic Coefficients of Brush Seals With Zero Cold Clearance Used in an Arrangement With Labyrinth Fins
Authors: Gaszner Manuel , Pugachev Alexander O. , Georgakis Christos , Cooper Paul
Published: August 2013

A brush-labyrinth sealing configuration consisting of two labyrinth fins upstream and one brush seal downstream is studied experimentally and theoretically. Two slightly different brush seal designs with zero cold radial clearance are considered. The sealing configurations are tested on the no-whirl and dynamic test rigs to obtain leakage performance and rotordynamic stiffness and damping coefficients. The no-whirl tests allow identification of the local rotordynamic direct and cross-coupled stiffness coefficients for a wide range of operating conditions, while the dynamic test rig is used to obtain both global stiffness and damping coefficients but for a narrower operating range limited by the capabilities of a magnetic actuator. Modeling of the brush-labyrinth seals is performed using computational fluid dynamics. The experimental global rotordynamic coefficients consist of an aerodynamic component due to the gas flow and a mechanical component due to the contact between the bristle tips and rotor surface. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD)–based calculations of rotordynamic coefficients provide, however, only the aerodynamic component. A simple mechanical model is used to estimate the theoretical value of the mechanical stiffness of the bristle pack during the contact. The results obtained for the sealing configurations with zero cold radial clearance brush seals are compared with available data on three-tooth-on-stator labyrinth seals and a brush seal with positive cold radial clearance. Results show that the sealing arrangement with a line-on-line welded brush seal has the best performance overall with the lowest leakage and cross-coupled stiffness. The predictions are generally in agreement with the measurements for leakage and stiffness coefficients. The seal-damping capability is noticeably underpredicted.
Optimal H2 and H∞ Mode-Independent Control for Generalized Bernoulli Jump Systems
Authors: Fioravanti A. R. , Gonçalves A. P. C. , Geromel J. C.
Published: August 2013

This paper deals with state-feedback control of discrete-time linear jump systems. The random variable representing the system modes has a generalized Bernoulli distribution, which is equivalent to a Markov chain where the transition probability matrix has identical rows. Another assumption is about the availability of the mode to the controller. We derive necessary and sufficient linear matrix inequalities (LMI) conditions to design optimal H2 and H∞ state-feedback controllers for the particular class of transition probabilities under consideration and subject to partial mode availability constraints or equivalently cluster availability constraints, which include mode-dependent and mode-independent designs as particular cases. All design conditions are expressed in terms of LMIs. The results are illustrated through a numerical example.
Fetal Urinary Peptides to Predict Postnatal Outcome of Renal Disease in Fetuses with Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV)
Authors: Klein Julie , Lacroix Chrystelle , Caubet Cécile , Siwy Justyna , Zürbig Petra , Dakna Mohammed , Muller Françoise , Breuil Benjamin , Stalmach Angelique , Mullen William , Mischak Harald , Bandin Flavio , Monsarrat Bernard , Bascands Jean-Loup , Decramer Stéphane , Schanstra Joost P.
Published: August 2013

Peptides found in fetal urine predict end-stage renal disease in patients with a congenital abnormality of the kidney and urinary tract.
A Theoretically Based Index of Consciousness Independent of Sensory Processing and Behavior
Authors: Casali Adenauer G. , Gosseries Olivia , Rosanova Mario , Boly Mélanie , Sarasso Simone , Casali Karina R. , Casarotto Silvia , Bruno Marie-Aurélie , Laureys Steven , Tononi Giulio , Massimini Marcello
Published: August 2013

A theory-derived index of consciousness, which quantifies the complexity of the brain’s response to a stimulus, measures the level of consciousness in awake, sleeping, anesthetized, and brain-damaged subjects.
Making Waves in Consciousness Research
Authors: Schiff Nicholas D.
Published: August 2013

A new strategy for quantifying consciousness may have broad applications in the clinic and the lab.
A Primate Model for Autism
Authors: Bytautiene Egle
Published: August 2013

Pregnant macaques given human autoantibodies against fetal brain proteins results in autism-like behavior patterns and increased brain volume in the offspring.
Occurrence of Cyclic di-GMP-Modulating Output Domains in Cyanobacteria: an Illuminating Perspective
Authors: Agostoni Marco , Koestler Benjamin J. , Waters Christopher M. , Williams Barry L. , Montgomery Beronda L.
Published: August 2013

Microorganisms use a variety of metabolites to respond to external stimuli, including second messengers that amplify primary signals and elicit biochemical changes in a cell. Levels of the second messenger cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP) are regulated by a variety of environmental stimuli and play a critical role in regulating cellular processes such as biofilm formation and cellular motility. Cyclic di-GMP signaling systems have been largely characterized in pathogenic bacteria; however, proteins that can impact the synthesis or degradation of c-di-GMP are prominent in cyanobacterial species and yet remain largely underexplored. In cyanobacteria, many putative c-di-GMP synthesis or degradation domains are found in genes that also harbor light-responsive signal input domains, suggesting that light is an important signal for altering c-di-GMP homeostasis. Indeed, c-di-GMP-associated domains are often the second most common output domain in photoreceptors—outnumbered only by a histidine kinase output domain. Cyanobacteria differ from other bacteria regarding the number and types of photoreceptor domains associated with c-di-GMP domains. Due to the widespread distribution of c-di-GMP domains in cyanobacteria, we investigated the evolutionary origin of a subset of genes. Phylogenetic analyses showed that c-di-GMP signaling systems were present early in cyanobacteria and c-di-GMP genes were both vertically and horizontally inherited during their evolution. Finally, we compared intracellular levels of c-di-GMP in two cyanobacterial species under different light qualities, confirming that light is an important factor for regulating this second messenger
in vivo
.

IMPORTANCE
This study shows that many proteins containing cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP)-regulatory domains in cyanobacteria are associated with photoreceptor domains. Although the functional roles of c-di-GMP domain-containing proteins in cyanobacteria are only beginning to emerge, the abundance of these multidomain proteins in cyanobacteria that occupy diverse habitats ranging from freshwater to marine to soil environments suggests an important role for the regulation of c-di-GMP in these organisms. Indeed, we showed that light distinctly regulates c-di-GMP levels in
Fremyella diplosiphon
and Synechocystis sp. strain PCC6803. Our findings are consistent with the occurrence of c-di-GMP domains based on evolutionary origin and as an adaptation to specific habitat characteristics. Phylogenetic analyses of these domains clearly separate two distinctive clades, one composed of domains belonging predominantly to cyanobacteria and the other belonging to a mix of cyanobacteria and other bacteria. We further demonstrate that in cyanobacteria the acquisition of c-di-GMP signaling domains occurred both vertically and horizontally.