bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Construction of 20 × 20 and 24 × 24 Binary Matrices with Good Implementation Properties for Lightweight Block Ciphers and Hash Functions
Authors: Sakallı Muharrem Tolga , Akleylek Sedat , Aslan Bora , Buluş Ercan , Sakallı Fatma Büyüksaraçoğlu
Published: November 2014

We present an algebraic construction based on state transform matrix (companion matrix) for n × n (where n ≠  2k, k being a positive integer) binary matrices with high branch number and low number of fixed points. We also provide examples for 20 × 20 and 24 × 24 binary matrices having advantages on implementation issues in lightweight block ciphers and hash functions. The powers of the companion matrix for an irreducible polynomial over GF(2) with degree 5 and 4 are used in finite field Hadamard or circulant manner to construct 20 × 20 and 24 × 24 binary matrices, respectively. Moreover, the binary matrices are constructed to have good software and hardware implementation properties. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study for n × n (where n ≠  2k, k being a positive integer) binary matrices with high branch number and low number of fixed points.
Peritoneal Membrane Injury and Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Chugh Shaan , Chaudhry Sultan , Ryan Timothy , Margetts Peter J.
Published: November 2014

For patients with chronic renal failure, peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a common, life sustaining form of renal replacement therapy that is used worldwide. Exposure to nonbiocompatible dialysate, inflammation, and uremia induces longitudinal changes in the peritoneal membrane. Application of molecular biology techniques has led to advances in our understanding of the mechanism of injury of the peritoneal membrane. This understanding will allow for the development of strategies to preserve the peritoneal membrane structure and function. This may decrease the occurrence of PD technique failure and improve patient outcomes of morbidity and mortality.
Correspondence off(R,∇R)Modified Gravity with Scalar Field Models
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Debnath Ujjal
Published: November 2014

This paper is devoted to study the scalar field dark energy models by taking its different aspects in the framework off(R,∇R)gravity. We consider flat FRW universe to construct the equation of state parameter governed byf(R,∇R)gravity. The stability of the model is discussed with the help of squared speed of sound parameter. It is found that models show quintessence behavior of the universe in stable as well as unstable modes. We also develop the correspondence off(R,∇R)model with some scalar field dark energy models like quintessence, tachyonic field,k-essence, dilaton, hessence, and DBI-essence. The nature of scalar fields and corresponding scalar potentials is being analyzed inf(R,∇R)gravity graphically which show consistency with the present day observations about accelerated phenomenon.
Clear Cell Carcinoma Arising from Cesarean Section Scar Endometriosis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ijichi Sakura , Mori Taisuke , Suganuma Izumi , Yamamoto Takuro , Matsushima Hiroshi , Ito Fumitake , Akiyama Makoto , Kusuki Izumi , Kitawaki Jo
Published: November 2014

Introduction.The incidence of endometriosis affecting skin tissue represents only 0.5–1.0% of all endometriosis cases. A malignancy in the abdominal wall arising from endometriosis following cesarean section is even rarer; only 21 cases have previously been reported. The therapeutic strategy has not been determined because of the limited cases. We report a case of clear cell adenocarcinoma arising in the abdominal wall from endometriosis tissues following cesarean section and review previous literature to achieve the optimal treatment and better prognosis.Case Presentation.A 60-year-old woman presented with a growing mass at the left side of a cesarean section scar. Radical resection of the abdominal wall mass was performed. Histopathological examination showed a clear cell adenocarcinoma. Benign endometrium-like tissues were found adjacent to the cancer lesion in the excised specimen, suggesting malignant transformation from endometriosis of the abdominal wall.Discussion.Local resection was performed in 10 cases (47.6%) and total abdominal hysterectomy or oophorectomy was conducted in 11 cases (52.4%). No malignant lesions were observed in either the uterus or adnexa that were resected. These cases may be expected to increase with increasing incidence of cesarean section. The significance of the extensional resection should be further elucidated.
Comparison of Electroacupuncture and Morphine‐Mediated Analgesic Patterns in a Plantar Incision‐Induced Pain Model
Authors: Zeng Yen-Jing , Tsai Shih-Ying , Chen Kuen-Bao , Hsu Sheng-Feng , Chen Julia Yi-Ru , Wen Yeong-Ray
Published: November 2014

Electroacupuncture (EA) is a complementary therapy to improve morphine analgesia for postoperative pain, but underlying mechanism is not well‐known. Herein, we investigated EA‐induced analgesic effect in a plantar incision (PI) model in male Sprague‐Dawley rats. PI was performed at the left hind paw. EA of 4 Hz and high intensity or sham needling was conducted at right ST36 prior to PI and repeated for another 2 days. Behavioral responses to mechanical and thermal stimuli, spinal phospho‐ERK, and Fos expression were all analyzed. In additional groups, naloxone and morphine were administered to elucidate involvement of opioid receptors and for comparison with EA. EA pretreatment significantly reduced post‐PI tactile allodynia for over 1 day; repeated treatments maintained analgesic effect. Intraperitoneal naloxone could reverse EA analgesia. Low‐dose subcutaneous morphine (1 mg/kg) had stronger inhibitory effect on PI‐induced allodynia than EA for 1 h. However, analgesic tolerance appeared after repeated morphine injections. Both EA and morphine could equally inhibit PI‐induced p‐ERK and Fos inductions. We conclude that though EA and morphine attenuate postincision pain through opioid receptor activations, daily EA treatments result in analgesic accumulation whereas daily morphine injections develop analgesic tolerance. Discrepant pathways and mechanisms underlying two analgesic means may account for the results.
The Booting‐Type ADRC of Airborne Photoelectrical Platform
Authors: Li Xiantao , Zhang Bao , Shen Honghai , Tian Dapeng
Published: November 2014

Customary disturbance rejection in the photoelectrical platform is “passive,” which makes it difficult to further improve the isolation degree owning to the strict restriction of mechanical resonance frequency. In this paper, a booting‐type ADRC is proposed, whose disturbance estimation process is guided by target value to reduce the overshoot and lag in the estimated value of disturbance. All kinds of disturbance in the system are modeled in a unified way by using the equivalent disturbance voltage to avoid the complex modeling process. Based on the simplified model, extended state observer (ESO) is designed to realize a real‐time estimation of the disturbance. Then, the disturbance compensation is added to generate the final control value by combining the customary square lead‐lag controller. Experiments are implemented to test the proposed control strategy by mounting the photoelectrical platform on a flight simulator and generating a motion perturbation. Compared with the case of only traditional lead‐lag controller, the isolation degree of disturbance is enhanced obviously. And the experiments also illustrate strong robustness of ADRC.
Genetic Identification and Risk Factor Analysis of Asymptomatic Bacterial Colonization on Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices
Authors: Chu Xian-Ming , Li Bing , An Yi , Li Xue-Bin , Guo Ji-Hong
Published: November 2014

Asymptomatic bacterial colonization of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is widespread and increases the risk of clinical CIED infection. The aim of the study was to evaluate the incidence of bacterial colonization of generator pockets in patients without signs of infection and to analyze the relationship with clinical infection and risk factors. From June 2011 to December 2012, 78 patients underwent CIED replacement or upgrade. Exclusion criteria included a clinical diagnosis of CIED infection, bacteremia, or infective endocarditis. All patients were examined for evidence of bacterial 16S rDNA on the device and in the surrounding tissues. Infection cases were recorded during follow-up. The bacterial-positive rate was 38.5% (30 cases); the coagulase-negativeStaphylococcusdetection rate was the highest (9 cases, 11.5%). Positive bacterial DNA results were obtained from pocket tissue in 23.1% of patients (18 cases), and bacterial DNA was detected on the device in 29.5% of patients (23 cases). During follow-up (median 24.6 months), two patients (6.7%, 2/30) became symptomatic with the same species of microorganism,S. aureusandS. epidermidis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis found that the history of bacterial infection, use of antibiotics, application of antiplatelet drugs, replacement frequency, and renal insufficiency were independent risk factors for asymptomatic bacterial colonization.
Multiscale Modeling of Elastic Properties of Sustainable Concretes by Microstructural-Based Micromechanics
Authors: Zanjani Zadeh V. , Bobko C. P.
Published: November 2014

This paper addresses multiscale stiffness homogenization methodology to extract macroscale elastic mechanical properties of four types of sustainable concretes from their nanoscale mechanical properties. Nine different sustainable concrete mixtures were studied. A model based on micromechanics was used to homogenize the elastic properties. The hardened cement pastes were homogenized by three analytical methods based on Self-Consistent and Mori-Tanaka schemes. The proposed multiscale method combines advanced experimental and analytical methods in a systematic way so that the inputs are nanoscale phases properties extracted from statistical nanoindentation technique and mechanical properties of mixture ingredient. Predicted elastic properties were consistent with traditional experimental results. Linking homogenized mechanical properties of sustainable concrete to volume proportions through an analytical approach provides a critical first step towards rational optimization of these materials.
Clinical Profile of Plasmodium vivax Malaria in Children and Study of Severity Parameters in relation to Mortality: A Tertiary Care Centre Perspective in Mumbai, India
Authors: Kumari Manju , Ghildiyal Radha
Published: November 2014

Background. While research on P. vivax is scarce because it is considered benign, it has become evident with implementation of molecular diagnosis that it can also cause multiple organ dysfunction and severe life-threatening disease. Objective. To study clinical presentations and complications of P. vivax malaria and mortality correlation to severity parameters as defined by WHO criteria for severe malaria. Materials and methods. This study was conducted in a tertiary care centre in Mumbai. Confirmed P. vivax cases were enrolled and studied for their clinical profile, and WHO severity parameters were tested for their frequency and association to mortality. Result. The most common presentation was fever followed by pallor. 26% of the cases satisfied one or more criteria of WHO severity parameters. 2 cases died; both had pulmonary edema and bleeding. The major predictor of mortality among these predefined severity criteria was pulmonary edema/ARDS. Patients with severe anemia, circulatory collapse, and repeated generalized convulsion had 100% survival rate. Leukopenia was present in 10% of the cases. Both cases with mortality had leukopenia. Conclusion. P. vivax monoinfection tends to have severe complications in children. There is a need to review severity criteria for P. vivax malaria.
Synergistic Effects of Clopidogrel and Fufang Danshen Dripping Pills by Modulation of the Metabolism Target and Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Ma Shitang , Ju Wenzheng , Dai Guoliang , Zhao Wenzhu , Cheng Xiaogui , Fang Zhuyuan , Tan Hengshan , Wang Xiaoxiao
Published: November 2014

Background and Objective. The aim was to evaluate the synergistic effects of clopidogrel and FDDP by modulating the metabolism target and the pharmacokinetics. Methods. The inhibition effect of FDDP on the CES1 was first investigated by the molecular simulation method, and the synergistic effects on the pharmacokinetics of CPGS were studied as follows: SD rats were treated with oral clopidogrel alone at a dosage of 30 mg/kg or the combination of clopidogrel and FDDP at dosages of 30 mg/kg and 324 mg/kg, respectively, for 21 days. The concentrations of CPGS in the blood plasma samples were determined and the calculated concentrations were used to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters. Results. 20 compounds in FDDP potentially interacted with CES1 target. The CPGS showed a two‐compartment model pharmacokinetic profile. The concentration‐time course of CPGS was not changed by FDDP, but FDDP decreased the peak plasma concentration and area under the curve of CPGS. Conclusion. The CES1’s activity could be partly inhibited by FDDP through the molecular simulation investigation. The concentration‐time course of CPGS was altered slightly by FDDP. The results demonstrated the synergistic effects of clopidogrel and FDDP by modulating both the pharmacokinetics and the target metabolism.
The Feasibility of Using CT-Guided ROI for Semiquantifying Striatal Dopamine Transporter Availability in a Hybrid SPECT/CT System
Authors: Hsu Chien-Chin , Chang Yen-Hsiang , Lin Wei-Che , Tang Shu-Wen , Wang Pei-Wen , Huang Yung-Cheng , Chiu Nan-Tsing
Published: November 2014

A hybrid SPECT/CT system provides accurate coregistration of functional and morphological images. CT-guided region of interest (ROI) for semiquantifying striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) availability may be a feasible method. We therefore assessed the intra- and interobserver reproducibility of manual SPECT and CT-guided ROI methods and compared their semiquantitative data with data from MRI-guided ROIs. We enrolled twenty-eight patients who underwent Tc-99m TRODAT-1 brain SPECT/CT and brain MRI. ROIs of the striatal, caudate, putamen, and occipital cortex were manually delineated on the SPECT, CT, and MRI. ROIs from CT and MRI were transferred to the coregistered SPECT for semiquantification. The striatal, caudate, and putamen nondisplaceable binding potential(BPND)were calculated. Using CT-guided ROIs had higher intra- and interobserver concordance correlation coefficients, closer Bland-Altman biases to zero, and narrower limits of agreement than using manual SPECT ROIs. The correlation coefficients of striatal, caudate, and putamenBPNDwere good between manual SPECT and MRI-guided ROI methods and even better between CT-guided and MRI-guided ROI methods. Conclusively, CT-guided ROI delineation for semiquantifying striatal DAT availability in a hybrid SPECT/CT system is highly reproducible, and the semiquantitative data correlate well with data from MRI-guided ROIs.
Clinical Efficacy of Moringa oleifera Lam. Stems Bark in Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Maurya Santosh Kumar , Singh Anil Kumar
Published: November 2014

Objective. Urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most common problem in clinical practice. Usually they are asymptomatic and are commonly present with distressing symptoms like pain and burning sensation on urination. Antibiotics are widely used to treat UTIs; however, they have their own limitations like resistance, reinfection, and relapses. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the value of Moringa oleifera Lam. stem bark as a potential medicine for UTIs. Study Design. 30 patients with UTI were randomly divided into two groups with 15 patients in each group. Shigru bark was given to patients of the first group (trial group) and modern medicines were prescribed to the other group of patients. At least three follow-ups are taken in both groups at the end of every week of treatment. Results. After treatment 66.67 % were cured, 13.33 % improved, 13.33% patients have no change, and 6.67% relapsed in trial group and in control group 46.67% were cured, 26.66% improved, 6.67% patients have no change, and 20% relapsed. Interpretation and Conclusion. The trial drug is significant in the management of UTI. This study needs to be done on a large scale and for a long time.
Evaluation of Density Matrix and Helmholtz Free Energy for Harmonic Oscillator Asymmetric Potential via Feynmans Approach
Authors: Moonsri Piyarut , Hutem Artit
Published: November 2014

We apply a Feynmans technique for calculation of a canonical density matrix of a single particle under harmonic oscillator asymmetric potential and solving the Bloch equation of the statistical mechanics system. The density matrix (P^u) and kinetic energy per unit length (τ^L) can be directly evaluated from the solving solutions. From the evaluation, it was found that both of the density matrix and kinetic energy per unit length depended on the parameter of the value of asymmetric potential (λ), the value of axes-shift potential (g), and temperature (T). Comparison of the Helmholtz free energy was derived by the Feynmans technique and the path-integral method. The results illustrated are slightly different.
The Association between the Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness and Oxidative Stress Parameters in Isolated Metabolic Syndrome Patients: A Multimarker Approach
Authors: Demir Bulent , Demir Esra , Acıksarı Gonul , Uygun Turgut , Utku Irem Kırac , Gedikbasi Asuman , Caglar Ilker Murat , Pirhan Osman , Tureli Hande Oktay , Oflar Ersan , Ungan İsmail , Ciftci Serkan , Karakaya Osman
Published: November 2014

The risk for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly increases in the patient population with metabolic syndrome (MeS). The present study aimed to investigate the association between the epicardial adipose tissue thickness (EATT) and the oxidative stress parameters in MeS patients. The study included 181 patients as a patient group of 92 consecutive patients with MeS and a control group of 89 consecutive patients with similar age and gender. EATT was evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography. Serum levels of total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidative capacity (TAS), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), and arylesterase activities were measured. EATT was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (6.0 ± 2.0 mm and4.0 ± 1.0 mm, resp.;P<0.001). The level of TOS was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (P<0.001). Additionally, the TAS level was higher in the MeS group compared to the control group (P<0.001). Furthermore, the serum levels of PON-1 and arylesterase were lower in the MeS group compared to the control group (P<0.001). EAT may cause an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases by leading to increased oxidative stress in patients with MeS.
Sex Cord Tumor with Annular Tubules: An Incidental Finding in an Endometriotic Cyst—The First Known Cooccurrence
Authors: Singh Meeta , Mandal Shramana , Majumdar Kaushik
Published: November 2014

Sex cord tumor with annular tubules (SCTATs) is a relatively rare ovarian neoplasm often having a syndromic association with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS). Other associations described with this rare neoplasm include adenoma malignum of cervix, Turners syndrome, dysgerminoma, gonadoblastoma, endometrial carcinoma, and endometriosis of fallopian tube. We describe for the first time to the best of our literature search the incidental detection of SCTAT coexisting with an endometriotic cyst of ovary. Meticulous histological scanning and awareness is mandatory for detection of such unusual incidental lesions. Non-PJS SCTATs tend to be larger and could be more prone to distant metastasis, warranting subsequent follow-up.
The Design of Impact Test-Bed for High-Flow Water Medium Relief Valve
Authors: Chang Junliang , Liu Lei , Zhao Jiyun , Ding Haigang , Shi Gaoliang
Published: November 2014

Water medium hydraulic systems are widely used in coal mining machinery. As the power of hydraulic system becomes higher, the flow and pressure of water medium relief valve are also higher, and the flow may reach 2000 L/min. However, there is no relevant test-bed which could provide instantaneous high-pressure and high-flow to support the experiment for high-flow relief valve; consequently, this impact test-bed for high-flow water medium relief valve is designed to satisfy fast loading demand. Through building model, simulation analysis, and construction of an impact test-bed of high-flow water medium relief valve, the dynamic performance of high-flow water medium relief valve is detected. The setting pressure of relief valve, the accumulator volume and the filling fluid pressure, and the damping of cartridge valve can be changed, and the dynamic performance of high-flow water medium relief valve under different impact loads is detected. The results show that the designed impact test-bed of high-flow water medium relief valve could provide required high-pressure and high-flow emulsion for the tested water medium relief valve, and it could control the strength of impact load, which is an energy saving, high efficiency, and low cost method.
The Development of Auditory Perception in Children after Auditory Brainstem Implantation
Authors: Colletti Liliana , Shannon Robert V. , Colletti Vittorio
Published: November 2014

Auditory brainstem implants (ABIs) can provide useful auditory perception and language development in deaf children who are not able to use a cochlear implant (CI). We prospectively followed up a consecutive group of 64 deaf children up to 12 years following ABI surgery. The etiology of deafness in these children was: cochlear nerve aplasia in 49, auditory neuropathy in 1, cochlear malformations in 8, bilateral cochlear postmeningitic ossification in 3, neurofibromatosis type 2 in 2, and bilateral cochlear fractures due to a head injury in 1. Thirty-five children had other congenital nonauditory disabilities. Twenty-two children had previous CIs with no benefit. Fifty-eight children were fitted with the Cochlear 24 ABI device and 6 with the MedEl ABI device, and all children followed the same rehabilitation program. Auditory perceptual abilities were evaluated on the Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP) scale. No child was lost to follow-up, and there were no exclusions from the study. All children showed significant improvement in auditory perception with implant experience. Seven children (11%) were able to achieve the highest score on the CAP test; they were able to converse on the telephone within 3 years of implantation. Twenty children (31.3%) achieved open set speech recognition (CAP score of 5 or greater) and 30 (46.9%) achieved a CAP level of 4 or greater. Of the 29 children without nonauditory disabilities, 18 (62%) achieved a CAP score of 5 or greater with the ABI. All children showed continued improvements in auditory skills over time. The long-term results of ABI surgery reveal significant auditory benefit in most children, and open set auditory recognition in many. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Mastoid Obliteration for Pediatric Suppurative Cholesteatoma: Long-Term Safety and Sustained Effectiveness after 30 Years' Experience with Cartilage Obliteration
Authors: Kuo Chin-Lung , Lien Chiang-Feng , Shiao An-Suey
Published: November 2014

Objective: To analyze the long-term safety of mastoid obliteration with cartilage in children with suppurative cholesteatomatous ears. Methods: The medical records of children (≤18 years) with cholesteatomas after primary tympanomastoidectomies were performed with cartilage obliteration over a 30-year period (1982-2012) were analyzed. The recidivism rate was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Potentially confounding factors of recidivism were entered into a Cox regression model as covariates for multivariate analysis. Results: Of the 150 cholesteatomatous ears in 146 children, there were 95 discharging ears (63%) in 94 children. Among the 95 discharging ears, tympanomastoidectomy was performed with cartilage obliteration (CO group) in 77 ears (81%) and without cartilage obliteration (WO group) in 18 ears (19%). The mean follow-up period was 12 years. Recidivism was observed in 16 ears in the CO group and 4 ears in the WO group. The 10-year cumulative recidivism rates were comparable between the CO and WO groups (19 vs. 25%, p = 0.762). Multivariate analysis confirmed that mastoid obliteration was not a negative predictor of recidivism (p = 0.760). Recidivism of cholesteatoma was detected within 6.5 years after surgery in the WO group and was found as late as 16.1 years after surgery in the CO group. Cartilage could be maintained in the cavity with limited resorption, preventing reretraction pockets and subsequent recidivism. Conclusion: This study provides evidence supporting the long-term safety, feasibility and effectiveness of mastoid cartilage obliteration for children with suppurative cholesteatomatous ears. Despite comparable recidivism rates between the groups, the potential for the delayed detection of recidivism with cavity obliteration may warrant long-term follow-up, with careful attention paid to the potential for recidivism during postoperative care in children. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Activation of D
4
Dopamine Receptor Decreases Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Expression in Rat Renal Proximal Tubule Cells
Authors: Chen Ken , Deng Kun , Wang Xiaoyan , Wang Zhen , Zheng Shuo , Ren Hongmei , He Duofen , Han Yu , Asico Laureano D. , Jose Pedro A. , Zeng Chunyu
Published: November 2014

The dopaminergic and renin–angiotensin systems interact to regulate blood pressure. Disruption of the D
4
dopamine receptor gene in mice produces hypertension that is associated with increased renal angiotensin type 1 (AT
1
) receptor expression. We hypothesize that the D
4
receptor can inhibit AT
1
receptor expression and function in renal proximal tubule cells from Wistar–Kyoto (WKY) rats, but the D
4
receptor regulation of AT
1
receptor is aberrant in renal proximal tubule cells from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). The D
4
receptor agonist, PD168077, decreased AT
1
receptor protein expression in a time- and concentration-dependent manner in WKY cells. By contrast, in SHR cells, PD168077 increased AT
1
receptor protein expression. The inhibitory effect of D
4
receptor on AT
1
receptor expression in WKY cells was blocked by a calcium channel blocker, nicardipine, or calcium-free medium, indicating that calcium is involved in the D
4
receptor–mediated signaling pathway. Angiotensin II increased Na
+
-K
+
ATPase activity in WKY cells. Pretreatment with PD168077 decreased the stimulatory effect of angiotensin II on Na
+
-K
+
ATPase activity in WKY cells. In SHR cells, the inhibitory effect of D
4
receptor on angiotensin II–mediated stimulation of Na
+
-K
+
ATPase activity was aberrant; pretreatment with PD168077 augmented the stimulatory effect of AT
1
receptor on Na
+
-K
+
ATPase activity in SHR cells. This was confirmed in vivo; pretreatment with PD128077 for 1 week augmented the antihypertensive and natriuretic effect of losartan in SHRs but not in WKY rats. We suggest that an aberrant interaction between D
4
and AT
1
receptors may play a role in the abnormal regulation of sodium excretion in hypertension.
Effect of Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibition on Arterial Blood Pressure Is Context Dependent
Authors: Jackson Edwin K. , Mi Zaichuan , Tofovic Stevan P. , Gillespie Delbert G.
Published: November 2014

Because the effects of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors on blood pressure are controversial, we examined the long-term effects of sitagliptin (80 mg/kg per day) on blood pressure (radiotelemetry) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), Wistar–Kyoto rats, and Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley rats (metabolic syndrome model). In SHR, chronic (3 weeks) sitagliptin significantly increased systolic, mean, and diastolic blood pressures by 10.3, 9.2, and 7.9 mm Hg, respectively, a response abolished by coadministration of BIBP3226 (2 mg/kg per day; selective Y
1
-receptor antagonist). Sitagliptin also significantly increased blood pressure in SHR treated with hydralazine (vasodilator; 25 mg/kg per day) or enalapril (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor; 10 mg/kg per day). In Wistar–Kyoto rats, chronic sitagliptin slightly decreased systolic, mean, and diastolic blood pressures (−1.8, −1.1, and −0.4 mm Hg, respectively). In Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley rats, chronic sitagliptin decreased systolic, mean, and diastolic blood pressures by −7.7, −5.8, and −4.3 mm Hg, respectively, and did not alter the antihypertensive effects of chronic enalapril. Because DPP4 inhibitors impair the metabolism of neuropeptide Y
1–36
(NPY
1–36
; Y
1
-receptor agonist) and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1(7–36)NH
2
(GLP-1 receptor agonist), we examined renovascular responses to NPY
1–36
and GLP-1(7–36)NH
2
in isolated perfused SHR and Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley kidneys pretreated with norepinephrine (to induce basal tone). In Zucker Diabetic-Sprague Dawley kidneys, NPY
1–36
and GLP-1(7–36)NH
2
exerted little, if any, effect on renovascular tone. In contrast, in SHR kidneys, both NPY
1–36
and GLP-1(7–36)NH
2
elicited potent and efficacious vasoconstriction. In conclusion: (1) The effects of DPP4 inhibitors on blood pressure are context dependent; (2) The context-dependent effects of DPP4 inhibitors are due in part to differential renovascular responses to DPP4’s most important substrates (NPY
1–36
and GLP-1(7–36)NH
2
); (3) Y
1
receptor antagonists may prevent the prohypertensive and possibly augment the antihypertensive effects of DPP4 inhibitors.
“Habituation Devours Things”: Radwa Ashour’s Specters and the E(n)strangement of Life-Writing
Authors: Andrea Bernadette
Published: November 2014

InSpecters, her multi-genre novel-length work of life-writing, Radwa Ashour engages with the Russian Formalist Viktor Shklovsky’s theory of “enstrangement” or “defamiliarization” to explore how history shapes lives and lives shape history. The double-voiced narration andmise-en-abymestructure of the novel, a mirror-within-a-mirror plot layered with metafictional passages on writing, coheres through the motifs of ghosts, threads, and silences. These motifs bring to the fore, if only momentarily, those individuals whom history has effaced from the nineteenth century onwards. Ashour, who in her words seeks to construct a “geographical space dense with a resonant history, a composite of past and present, overlapping territories constitutive of an emotional and moral space for self-awareness and self-definition”, engages the theory of enstrangement on both counts as she crafts a personal and political history that resists final closure and affirms life.
Fictionalising the Father in Maïssa Bey’s Entendez-vous dans les montagnes . . .
Authors: McIlvanney Siobhán
Published: November 2014

This contribution analyses the autobiographical récit, Entendez-vous dans les montagnes . . . (2010), by the contemporary Franco-Algerian author, Maïssa Bey, whose father was murdered by the French military during the Franco-Algerian War. It explores Bey’s deliberate transgression of conventional generic categories in her ‘staged’ construction of a dialogic exchange in which an authorial doppelgänger confronts her father’s killer. This segueing of the factual and fictional paradoxically allows Bey to confront her own past more directly, and to give expression to her fundamentally Other-oriented perception of the role of literature, which she perceives as a tool for active engagement with the sociopolitical present and future. Fiction for Bey is not about escaping ‘real life’, but about inhabiting it, about speaking past silences—silences both enforced and willingly espoused as a means of resistance—and representing the un(der)represented.
Energy from the Sea and the Protection of the Marine Environment: Treaty-Based Regimes and Ocean Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Bonfanti Angelica , Jacur Francesca Romanin
Published: November 2014

This article addresses treaty-based regimes and the so-called Ocean Corporate Social Responsibility (ocsr) that are relevant to marine environmental protection and energy activities. In this context, special attention is paid to the interactions among the legal regimes in which the environmental and safety rules and standards are adopted and to the effects of the regulatory technique of “legislation by reference”. After examining the relevant obligations of States within the framework of the un Convention on the Law of the Sea and the International Maritime Organization, the authors analyse ocsr, especially its preventive, damage mitigation and compensatory functions and its potential synergies with the treaty-based regimes.
Black Pete, “Smug Ignorance,” and the Value of the Black Body in Postcolonial Netherlands
Authors: van der Pijl Yvon , Goulordava Karina
Published: November 2014

This article discusses the controversies over the blackface figure Black Pete (Zwarte Piet)—central to the popular Dutch Saint Nicholas holiday tradition—and the public uproar surrounding the Saint Nicholas feast in 2013. It combines history, social theory, and patchwork ethnography, and draws on theoretical approaches discussing race, capitalism, and the commodification of cultural difference to establish an understanding of the controversial character. In doing so, it argues that Black Pete is an invented tradition that marks a “white Dutch habitus” in which the historical context of colonialism and the legacy of slavery is repeatedly ignored or denied.
Schizostachyum longinternodium (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Authors: ZHENG CHAOHAN , LIN RUSHUN , NI JINGBO , XIA NIANHE
Published: November 2014

A new species, Schizostachyum longinternodium, is described and illustrated. It is closely related to S. funghomii, but differs by its shorter culm sheaths with protuberances on culm sheaths shoulders, prophyll with an acuminate apex and tubular connate filaments.
The Campaign on Atmospheric Aerosol Research Network of China: CARE-China
Authors: Xin Jinyuan , Wang Yuesi , Pan Yuepeng , Ji Dongsheng , Liu Zirui , Wen Tianxue , Wang Yinghong , Li Xingru , Sun Yang , Sun Jie , Wang Pucai , Wang Gehui , Wang Xinming , Cong Zhiyuan , Song Tao , Hu Bo , Wang Lili , Tang Guiqian , Gao Wenkang , Guo Yuhong , Miao Hongyan , Tian Shili , Wang Lu
Published: November 2014

Based on a network of field stations belonging to the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the Campaign on Atmospheric Aerosol Research network of China (CARE-China) was recently established as the country’s first monitoring network for the study of the spatiotemporal distribution of aerosol physical characteristics, chemical components, and optical properties, as well as aerosol gaseous precursors. The network comprises 36 stations in total and adopts a unified approach in terms of the instrumentation, experimental standards, and data specifications. This ongoing project is intended to provide an integrated research platform to monitor online PM2.5 concentrations, nine-size aerosol concentrations and chemical component distributions, nine-size secondary organic aerosol (SOA) component distributions, gaseous precursor concentrations (including SO2, NOx, CO, O3, and VOCs), and aerosol optical properties. The data will be used to identify the sources of regional aerosols, the relative contributions from nature and anthropogenic emissions, the formation of secondary aerosols, and the effects of aerosol component distributions on aerosol optical properties. The results will reduce the levels of uncertainty involved in the quantitative assessment of aerosol effects on regional climate and environmental changes and ultimately provide insight into how to mitigate anthropogenic aerosol emissions in China. The present paper provides a detailed description of the instrumentation, methodologies, and experimental procedures used across the network, as well as a case study of observations taken from one station and the distribution of main components of aerosol over China during 2012.
The sting in the Psalms, Part 1
Authors: Goldingay Kathleen Scott , Goldingay John
Published: November 2014

In this paper we take up two overlapping aspects of the way in which the toughness of the Psalms can fulfill a constructive function. The first part (chiefly the work of Kathleen Scott Goldingay) looks at the way their poetic nature can have an ethical affect on the person who uses them. The second part (chiefly the work of John Goldingay), which will be published in the next issue of Theology, considers the significance of using the imprecatory psalms. 1
From Deconstruction to Activism
Authors: Shen Shuang
Published: November 2014

This article explores how the increasing visibility of new collectives in contemporary China has shaped independent documentaries. Countering a prevalent approach to documentary studies that emphasizes the individual and the subjective, this article suggests that how to represent collectivity has preoccupied Chinese documentary filmmakers from the inception of this art form. Yet early independent documentary filmmakers of the 1990s did not have a clear agenda on the representation of collectivity. The crowd in their films appears as an indistinguishable entity, akin to a passive or inactive social agent. More recent documentaries present significantly more complicated interactions between the camera and the crowd and deliberately tap into the problem of representation of contemporary crowds not just from a formal perspective, but from a political perspective as well.
Trends in radiation protection of positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging
Authors: Alenezi A. , Soliman K.
Published: November 2014

Over the past decade, the number of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging procedures has increased substantially. This imaging technique provides accurate functional and anatomical information, particularly for oncological applications. Separately, both PET and CT are considered as high-dose imaging modalities. With the increased use of PET/CT, one could expect an increase in radiation doses to staff and patients. As such, major efforts have been made to reduce radiation dose in PET/CT facilities. Variations in working techniques have made it difficult to compare published results. This study aimed to review the literature on proposed methods to reduce patient and staff dose in clinical PET/CT imaging. A brief overview of some published information on staff and patient doses will be analysed and presented. Recent trends regarding radiation protection in PET/CT imaging will be discussed, and practical recommendations for reducing radiation doses to staff and patients will be discussed and summarised. Generally, the CT dose component is often higher in magnitude than the dose from PET alone; as such, focusing on CT dose reduction will decrease the overall patient dose in PET/CT imaging studies. The following factors should be considered in order to reduce the patient's dose from CT alone: proper justification for ordering contrast-enhanced CT; use of automatic exposure control features; use of adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction algorithms; and optimisation of scan parameters, especially scan length. The PET dose component can be reduced by administration of lower activity to the patient, optimisation of the workflow, and appropriate use of protective devices and engineered systems. At the international level, there is wide variation in work practices among institutions. The current observed trends are such that the annual dose limits for radiation workers in PET/CT imaging are unlikely to be exceeded.
Down Syndrome Disintegrative Disorder
Authors: Worley Gordon , Crissman Blythe G. , Cadogan Emily , Milleson Christie , Adkins Deanna W. , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: November 2014

Over a 10-year period in a Down syndrome Clinic, 11 children and adolescents were encountered with a history of new-onset (8) or worsening (3) autistic characteristics. Ten of the 11 (91%) had cognitive decline to a dementia-like state and 9 of the 11 (82%) new-onset insomnia. The mean age at which symptoms developed was 11.4 years (standard deviation = 3.6 years; range 5-14 years), an older age than usual for autistic regression in Down syndrome. Ten of 11 cases (91%) had elevated (“positive”) thyroperoxidase antibody titers compared to only 5 of 21 (23%) age-matched control subjects with Down syndrome ( P < .001). At follow-up at a mean age of 20.7 years (standard deviation = 3.9 years), 8 of the 11 (73%) were at least somewhat better. Down syndrome disintegrative disorder seems an appropriate name for this newly recognized clinical association, which may be due to autoimmunity.
American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Authors: Brantley Susan L. , Russell Mary K. , Mogensen Kris M. , Wooley Jennifer A. , Bobo Elizabeth , Chen Yimin , Malone Ainsley , Roberts Susan , Romano Michelle M. , Taylor Beth
Published: November 2014

This 2014 revision of the Standards of Practice (SOP) and Standards of Professional Performance (SOPP) for Registered Dietitians Nutritionists (RDNs) in Nutrition Support represents an update of the 2007 Standards composed by content experts of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The revision is based upon the Revised 2012 SOP in Nutrition Care and SOPP for RDs, which incorporates the Nutrition Care Process and the six domains of professionalism: Quality in Practice, Competence and Accountability, Provision of Services, Application of Research, Communication and Application of Knowledge, and Utilization and Management of Resources. These SOP and SOPP are designed to promote the provision of safe, effective, and efficient nutrition support services, facilitate evidence‐based practice, and serve as a professional evaluation resource for RDNs who specialize or wish to specialize in nutrition support therapy. These standards should be applied in all patient/client care settings in which RDNs in nutrition support provide care. These settings include, but are not limited to, acute care, ambulatory/outpatient care, and home and alternate site care. The standards highlight the value of the nutrition support RDN's roles in quality management, regulatory compliance, research, teaching, consulting, and writing for peer‐reviewed professional publications. The standards assist the RDN in nutrition support to distinguish his or her level of practice (competent, proficient, or expert) and would guide the RDN in creating a personal development plan to achieve increasing levels of knowledge, skill, and ability in nutrition support practice.
Predictors of Response to Physical Therapy Intervention for Plantar Heel Pain
Authors: McClinton Shane M. , Cleland Joshua A. , Flynn Timothy W.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Age, weight, and duration of symptoms have been associated with a poor response to treatment for plantar heel pain (PHP), but no studies were identified that examined predictors of response to physical therapy intervention. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of age, body mass index (BMI), and symptom duration on treatment response to physical therapy intervention.

Methods:

Sixty participants received 6 visits over 4 weeks of physical therapy intervention that included manual therapy and exercise or electrophysiological agents and exercise. Outcomes were assessed using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and Global Rating of Change Scale (GRC). Logistic regression ( P < .05) was used to analyze age, BMI, and symptom duration as potential predictors of a successful response based on the minimal clinically important difference of the outcome measures. Sensitivity analysis was used to assess the influence of success based on minimal clinically important changes in the FAAM, NPRS, and GRC or only the FAAM and NPRS. Receiver operating curves were used to determine the cut point for the significant predictor.

Results:

At the 6-month follow-up to physical therapy intervention, NPRS was improved by 3 points (95% CI, 2.4-3.6) and FAAM improved by 22.5 points (95% CI, 16.8-28.2). Individuals with symptoms less than 7.2 months were 4.2 (95% CI, 1.3-13.8; P = .016) and 8.5 (95% CI, 2.5-28.9; P = .001) times more likely to respond to treatment based on the NPRS/FAAM/GRC and NPRS/FAAM success criteria, respectively. Age and BMI were not significant predictors ( P ≥ .455 and P ≥ .450, respectively).

Conclusion:

Age and BMI were not associated with outcomes and obese individuals did achieve a successful outcome with the physical therapy intervention used in the clinical trial. Individuals with PHP symptoms longer than 7 months require additional consideration and further investigation of effective strategies to improve treatment response.

Level of Evidence:

Prognosis, level 2b comparative study.
Free vibration analysis of a double-beam system joined by a mass-spring device
Authors: Rezaiee-Pajand Mohammad , Hozhabrossadati Seyed Mojtaba
Published: November 2014

In this paper, the free vibration analysis of a double-beam system is investigated. This structure is formed by two beams with elastic restraints at one end and free at the other end. These beams are connected by a mass-spring device. First, the related eigenvalue problem is established in the frequency domain, employing the well-known Fourier transform. Then, by utilizing eight boundary and compatibility conditions and solving two differential equations, the eigenvalues of the system are found and tabulated for different amounts of the parameters. Furthermore, some mode shapes of the mechanical system under study are plotted for various values of the springs' stiffness. In order to verify the results, some special cases are analyzed, and their outcomes are compared with the available ones.
Student motivations as predictors of high-level cognitions in project-based classrooms
Authors: Stolk Jonathan , Harari Janie
Published: November 2014

It is well established that active learning helps students engage in high-level thinking strategies and develop improved cognitive skills. Motivation and self-regulated learning research, however, illustrates that cognitive engagement is an effortful process that is related to students’ valuing of the learning tasks, adoption of internalized goal orientations, and development of personal agency. In this study, we test these relationships by generating multiple regression models that use motivational variables to predict college students’ use of elaboration and critical thinking in project-based courses. We find that elaboration strategies are significantly and positively predicted in regression models based on task value and intrinsic goal orientation or on task value and self-efficacy. Regression analyses illustrate that models based on task value and intrinsic goal orientation, in combination with either self-efficacy or extrinsic goal orientation, described students’ use of critical thinking strategies. These findings support prior research that shows that student motivations are significantly tied to their use of cognitive strategies. The findings extend the existing research base by illustrating the extent to which student motivations may be used to predict cognitive engagement in active, project-based environments.
Spatial variation of melt pool geometry, peak temperature and solidification parameters during laser assisted additive manufacturing process
Authors: Manvatkar V. , De A. , DebRoy T.
Published: November 2014

A three-dimensional heat transfer and material flow model is developed to numerically simulate the temperature and velocity fields in a laser assisted layer by layer deposition process with coaxially fed powder particles. The computed results are tested with independently reported temperature and build geometry for the deposition of multilayered structures of austenitic stainless steel. The results provide detailed insight about the important physical processes and show that the model can be used to understand the effects of process parameters on the thermal cycles, build geometry, cooling rates and solidification parameters in a multilayer additive manufacturing process.