bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are the most super-massive dark compact objects harbored at the center of dark matter halos?
Authors: Argüelles C. R. , Ruffini R.
Published: October 2014

We study an isothermal system of semi-degenerate self-gravitating fermions in general relativity (GR). The most general solutions present is mass density profiles with a central degenerate compact core governed by quantum statistics followed by an extended plateau, and ending in a power law behavior r-2. By fixing the fermion mass m in the keV regime, the different solutions depending on the free parameters of the model: the degeneracy and temperature parameters at the center, are systematically constructed along the one-parameter sequences of equilibrium configurations up to the critical point, which is represented by the maximum in a central density (ρ0) versus core mass (Mc) diagram. We show that for fully degenerate cores, the Oppenheimer–Volkoff (OV) mass limit [Formula: see text] is obtained, while instead for low degenerate cores, the critical core mass increases showing the temperature effects in a nonlinear way. The main result of this work is that when applying this theory to model the distribution of dark matter (DM) in big elliptical galaxies from miliparsec distance-scales up to 102Kpc, we do not find any critical core-halo configuration of self-gravitating fermions, able to explain both the most super-massive dark object at their center together with the DM halo simultaneously.
A SURFACE ACOUSTIC WAVE SENSOR FOR THE TREATMENT OF HYDROCEPHALUS
Authors: ZHANG BING , HU HONG , LI TIANLI
Published: October 2014

The hydrocephalus shunt system has a high risk of malfunction, which could lead to serious problems for patients. It is therefore important to monitor intracranial pressure (ICP). In this paper, a novel ICP sensor is presented to provide real-time pressure measurement for hydrocephalus patients. Surface acoustic wave technology is adopted in the design of the sensor so that it can interrogate wirelessly; and no battery is needed for providing energy, hence it could have a longer life span. The finite element method (FEM) simulation is performed to investigate the input frequency of the sensor; a prototype is fabricated, and the corresponding measurement system based on the NI PXI platform is established to analyze the performance of the sensor. The sensor has a measurement range of 0–14 kPa with sensitivity of 2.95°/kPa. The experimental results strongly suggest that the proposed sensor has the potential in monitoring ICP.
CREDIT SPREADS AND BANKRUPTCY INFORMATION FROM OPTIONS DATA
Authors: TZENG CHI-FENG
Published: October 2014

The changes in implied bankruptcy chances are applied to explain the credit default swap (CDS) spread changes of six financial institutions during the financial crisis. I estimated the chances from options data, with the assumption that risk neutral density (RND) is composed of lognormal densities with a chance of bankruptcy. Interest rate information and market information from firm- and index-level RNDs are used to explain CDS spread changes. The empirical findings show that firm-level information provides more explanations compared with index-level information. The changes in firm-level return is a critical determinant of CDS spreads. The changes in implied bankruptcy chances are significantly and positively related to spread changes. Finally, the changes in slope term is negatively related to spread changes.
Abstract Domains of Affine Relations
Authors: Elder Matt , Lim Junghee , Sharma Tushar , Andersen Tycho , Reps Thomas
Published: October 2014

This article considers some known abstract domains for affine-relation analysis (ARA), along with several variants, and studies how they relate to each other. The various domains represent sets of points that satisfy affine relations over variables that hold machine integers and are based on an extension of linear algebra to modules over a ring (in particular, arithmetic performed modulo 2

w

, for some machine-integer width
w
).

We show that the abstract domains of Müller-Olm/Seidl (MOS) and King/Søndergaard (KS) are, in general, incomparable. However, we give sound interconversion methods. In other words, we give an algorithm to convert a KS element
v
KS
to an overapproximating MOS element
v
MOS
—that is, γ (
v
KS
) ⊆ γ (
v
MOS
—as well as an algorithm to convert an MOS element
w
MOS
to an overapproximating KS element
w
KS
—that is, γ (
w
MOS
) ⊆ γ (
w
KS
).

The article provides insight on the range of options that one has for performing ARA in a program analyzer:

—We describe how to perform a greedy, operator-by-operator abstraction method to obtain KS abstract transformers.

—We also describe a more global approach to obtaining KS abstract transformers that considers the semantics of an entire instruction, basic block, or other loop-free program fragment.

The latter method can yield best abstract transformers, and hence can be more precise than the former method. However, the latter method is more expensive.

We also explain how to use the KS domain for interprocedural program analysis using a bit-precise concrete semantics, but without bit blasting.
Impact of Serum Nutritional Status on Physical Function in African American and Caucasian Stroke Survivors
Authors: Serra Monica C. , Hafer-Macko Charlene E. , Ivey Frederick M. , Macko Richard F. , Ryan Alice S.
Published: October 2014

Background. The purpose of this study is to compare serum nutritional profiles in chronic stroke survivors to a representative sample of US Adults (NHANESIII) and determine whether these serum markers differed by race and impact physical function in stroke.Methods. Fasting serum samples were collected for analysis of lipids, uric acid, and albumin in 145 African American (AA) and 111 Caucasian (C) stroke survivors (age: 60 ± 1 years [mean ± SEM]). A six-minute walk was performed in a subset of stroke survivors (N= 134).Results. Triglycerides were higher and HDL-cholesterol and albumin lower in C than AA women stroke survivors (Ps < 0.05). Uric acid was lower in C than AA stroke survivors (P< 0.05). Compared to NHANESIII, HDL-cholesterol, albumin, and hemoglobin generally were lower (Ps < 0.05) and lipids were more favorable in stroke (Ps < 0.01). Uric acid was related to six-minute walk performance among a subset of stroke survivors (P< 0.05).Conclusion. In stroke, racial differences exist with regard to serum nutritional risk, but these differences are similar to that observed in the general population. Regardless of race, nutritional risk appears elevated above that of the general population with regard to many of the serum markers. As a modifiable biomarker, uric acid should be monitored closely as it may provide insight into the functional risk of stroke survivors.
Cost Analysis of Three Techniques of Administering Sevoflurane
Authors: Tyagi Asha , Venkateswaran Vineeta , Jain Ajai Kumar , Verma Uttam Chandra
Published: October 2014

Background. This study aimed to evaluate and compare total cost of sevoflurane and propofol for 1.0 MAC-hour of anaesthesia, employing three anaesthetic techniques.Methods. Adult patients scheduled for surgical procedures under general anaesthesia anticipated to last approximately an hour were randomized into three groups (n=15each), to receive anaesthesia using one of the following techniques: low flow technique involving induction with propofol, followed by sevoflurane delivered using initial fresh gas flows of 6 L/min till MAC reached 1.0 and then reduced to 0.5 L/min; alternate method of low flow entailing only a difference in fresh gas flow rates being maintained at 1 L/min throughout; the third technique involving use of sevoflurane for both induction and maintenance of anaesthesia.Results. Cost of sevoflurane to maintain 1 MAC-hour of anaesthesia was clinically least with low flow anaesthesia, though statistically similar amongst the three techniques. Once the cost of propofol used for induction in two of the three groups was added to that of sevoflurane, cost incurred was least with the technique using sevoflurane both for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, as compared to low flow and alternative low flow techniques, a 26% and 32% cost saving, respectively (P<0.05).
Growth Analysis of Composite Entire and Meromorphic Functions in the Light of Their Relative Orders
Authors: Datta Sanjib Kumar , Biswas Tanmay , Biswas Chinmay
Published: October 2014

We study some comparative growth properties of composite entire and meromorphic functions on the basis of their relative orders (relative lower orders).
The Inhibition of the Components from Shengmai Injection towards UDP‐Glucuronosyltransferase
Authors: Jiang Li-Peng , Zhao Jin , Cao Yun-Feng , Hong Mo , Sun Dong-Xue , Sun Xiao-Yu , Yin Jun , Zhu Zhi-Tu , Fang Zhong-Ze
Published: October 2014

The mechanism of shengmai injection‐ (SMI‐) related drug‐drug interaction remains unclear. Evaluation of the inhibition potential of SMI’s ingredients towards UDP‐glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) activity will provide a new insight to understand SMI‐related drug‐drug interaction. In vitro incubation system to model UGT reaction was used. Recombinant UGT isoforms‐catalyzed 4‐methylumbelliferone (4‐MU) glucuronidation and UGT1A4‐catalyzed trifluoperazine (TFP) glucuronidation reactions were employed to phenotype the inhibition profile of maidong’s components towards the activity of UGT isoforms. Different inhibition potential of maidong’s components towards various UGT isoforms was observed. Based on the inhibition kinetic investigation results, ophiopogonin D (OD) noncompetitively inhibited UGT1A6 and competitively inhibited UGT1A8, ophiopogonin D′ (OD′) noncompetitively inhibited UGT1A6 and UGT1A10, and ruscorectal (RU) exhibited competitive inhibition towards UGT1A4. The inhibition kinetic parameters were calculated to be 20.6, 40.1, 5.3, 9.0, and 0.02 μM, respectively. In combination with our previous results obtained for the inhibition of UGT isoforms by ginsenosides and wuweizi components, the important SMI ingredients exhibiting strong inhibition towards UGT isoforms were highlighted. All the results obtained in the present study provide a new insight to understand SMI‐related drug‐drug interaction.
Fatigue Life Assessment of 65Si7 Leaf Springs: A Comparative Study
Authors: Arora Vinkel Kumar , Bhushan Gian , Aggarwal M. L.
Published: October 2014

The experimental fatigue life prediction of leaf springs is a time consuming process. The engineers working in the field of leaf springs always face a challenge to formulate alternate methods of fatigue life assessment. The work presented in this paper provides alternate methods for fatigue life assessment of leaf springs. A 65Si7 light commercial vehicle leaf spring is chosen for this study. The experimental fatigue life and load rate are determined on a full scale leaf spring testing machine. Four alternate methods of fatigue life assessment have been depicted. Firstly by SAE spring design manual approach the fatigue test stroke is established and by the intersection of maximum and initial stress the fatigue life is predicted. The second method constitutes a graphical method based on modified Goodman’s criteria. In the third method codes are written in FORTRAN for fatigue life assessment based on analytical technique. The fourth method consists of computer aided engineering tools. The CAD model of the leaf spring has been prepared in solid works and analyzed using ANSYS. Using CAE tools, ideal type of contact and meshing elements have been proposed. The method which provides fatigue life closer to experimental value and consumes less time is suggested.
Facile Precursor for Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Alkali Treated Maize Starch
Authors: El-Rafie M. H. , Ahmed Hanan B. , Zahran M. K.
Published: October 2014

Silver nanoparticles were prepared by using alkali treated maize starch which plays a dual role as reducer for AgNO3and stabilizer for the produced AgNPs. The redox reaction which takes a place between AgNO3and alkali treated starch was followed up and controlled in order to obtain spherical shaped silver nanoparticles with mean size 4–6 nm. The redox potentials confirmed the principle role of alkali treatment in increasing the reducibility of starch macromolecules. The measurements of reducing sugars at the end of reaction using dinitrosalicylic acid reagent (DNS) were carried out in order to control the chemical reduction reaction. The UV/Vis spectra show that an absorption peak, occurring due to surface plasmon resonance (SPR), exists at 410 nm, which is characteristic to yellow color of silver nanoparticles solution. The samples have been characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which reveal the nanonature of the particles.
Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Qinbai Qingfei Concentrated Pellet on Cellular Infectivity of Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Authors: Jiang Guo-Zheng , Liu Ting , Li Ji-Chang
Published: October 2014

Aim. To study the effect and mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine Qinbai Qingfei concentrated pellet (QQCP) against Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP). Methods. Rat airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells were used to examine the antimycoplasmal activity of QQCP via four drug-adding modes: pre- and postadding drugs, simultaneous-adding after drug and MP mixed, and simultaneous-adding drug and MP; taking roxithromycin dispersive tablets (RDT) as positive control, the cellular A570 values were determined by MTT method. Results. All of A570 values in QQCP group were significantly higher than those of the corresponding MP control group (P<0.01) in four drug-adding modes; there was no significant difference in A570 values between the QQCP group and that of the positive control group (P>0.05), confirming that QQCP could significantly inhibit the infectivity of MP to ASM cells. Conclusion. QQCP had significant activity in preventing and treating MP infection, killing MP, and antiabsorption.
Incentive Decision on Safety Investment of Supply Chain of Agricultural Products in “Agricultural Super-Docking”
Authors: Tang Weiqin , Tang Weimin , Jiang Changsheng , Lu Shan
Published: October 2014

Since the “agriculture super-docking” mode was introduced in China in 2007, remarkable success has been made in reducing the transaction cost and improving the quality safety of agricultural products. However, the quality safety issues of agricultural products still occur frequently because both specialized farmers’ cooperatives and supermarkets have insufficient safety investment. In order to study the necessity, goal, and incentive decision schemes of safety investment in “agriculture super-docking” supply chain, three kinds of models, which include noncooperatives distributed decision-making model, centralized decision-making model, and incentive coordination models led by cooperatives and supermarkets, are, respectively, set up in this paper. Conclusions are drawn as follows: when making the uncooperative decentralized decision, both cooperatives and supermarkets have the moral risks to decrease the safety investment, but appropriate measures can achieve the coordination of the supply chain; when achieving the coordination of supply chain, the two contacts under the guidance of cooperatives and supermarkets are the same, and the schemes of distributing profits are also the same. Moreover, a practical case is given to improve the effectiveness and feasibility of the incentive decision schemes.
Protective Effect of Curcumin against the Liver Toxicity Caused by Propanil in Rats
Authors: Otuechere Chiagoziem A. , Abarikwu Sunny O. , Olateju Victoria I. , Animashaun Azeezat L. , Kale Oluwafemi E.
Published: October 2014

We investigated the protective effects of curcumin on propanil-induced alterations in biochemical indices in blood and liver of male Wistar rats. The study consisted of four treatment groups, with six animals each, designated as control, propanil (20mg/kg), curcumin(50 mg/kg), and curcumin (50 mg/kg) + propanil (20 mg/kg). Rats were administered their respective doses orally, every other day, for 28 days. Propanil administration elicited significant (P<0.001) increases in plasma aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities, by 24% and 56%, respectively, compared to the control. Treatment with propanil elevated bilirubin, creatinine, and total cholesterol levels in rats, but these were not significant relative to controls. Administration of propanil to rats significantly (P<0.001) increased lipid peroxidation levels. However, catalase activity, vitamin C, and reduced glutathione levels were significantly reduced. Exposure to propanil did not produce any significant changes in packed cell volume, neutrophils, and leukocyte counts. The supplementation of curcumin attenuated the adverse effects of propanil intoxication by reducing lipid peroxidation levels and restored the levels of serum enzymes and reduced glutathione. The present study showed that propanil increased oxidative stress and altered some biochemical parameters in the rats but curcumin could afford some protection to attenuate propanil-induced toxicity in the liver.
Forecasting Energy Market Contracts by Ambit Processes: Empirical Study and Numerical Results
Authors: Di Persio Luca , Marchesan Michele
Published: October 2014

In the present paper we exploit the theory of ambit processes to develop a model which is able to effectively forecast prices of forward contracts written on the Italian energy market. Both short-term and medium-term scenarios are considered and proper calibration procedures as well as related numerical results are provided showing a high grade of accuracy in the obtained approximations when compared with empirical time series of interest.
Evaluation of Novel Imidazotetrazine Analogues Designed to Overcome Temozolomide Resistance and Glioblastoma Regrowth
Authors: Ramirez Yulian P. , Mladek Ann C. , Phillips Roger M. , Gynther Mikko , Rautio Jarkko , Ross Alonzo H. , Wheelhouse Richard T. , Sakaria Jann N.
Published: October 2014

The cellular responses to two new temozolomide (TMZ) analogues, DP68 and DP86, acting against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell lines and primary culture models are reported. Dose–response analysis of cultured GBM cells revealed that DP68 is more potent than DP86 and TMZ and that DP68 was effective even in cell lines resistant to TMZ. On the basis of a serial neurosphere assay, DP68 inhibits repopulation of these cultures at low concentrations. The efficacy of these compounds was independent of MGMT and MMR functions. DP68-induced interstrand DNA cross-links were demonstrated with H2O2-treated cells. Furthermore, DP68 induced a distinct cell–cycle arrest with accumulation of cells in S phase that is not observed for TMZ. Consistent with this biologic response, DP68 induces a strong DNA damage response, including phosphorylation of ATM, Chk1 and Chk2 kinases, KAP1, and histone variant H2AX. Suppression of FANCD2 expression or ATR expression/kinase activity enhanced antiglioblastoma effects of DP68. Initial pharmacokinetic analysis revealed rapid elimination of these drugs from serum. Collectively, these data demonstrate that DP68 is a novel and potent antiglioblastoma compound that circumvents TMZ resistance, likely as a result of its independence from MGMT and mismatch repair and its capacity to cross-link strands of DNA. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(1); 111–9. ©2014 AACR.
Zdzieranie masek. Sposoby pisania o żydowskich komunistach
Authors: Zawadzka Anna
Published: October 2014

Tearing Off the Masks: Narratives on Jewish CommunistsThe paper presents an analysis of the contemporary Polish debate on Jewish communists. The analysis was performed in the framework of colonialist theories. I deconstructed narrations about Jewish communists, which belong in the Polish political mainstream, and are regarded as moderate, objective and devoid of any ideology. The tropes shared by the colonialist discourse and the debate on Jewish communists are: orientalisation, eroticisation, infantilisation, presenting the object of research outside the historical context, abolishing the context of social and political inequalities, and declaring the victims guilty of the violence they experience. Zdzieranie masek. Sposoby pisania o żydowskich komunistachNiniejszy tekst jest próbą analizy współczesnego polskiego dyskursu o żydowskich komunistach za pomocą narzędzi wypracowanych przez badaczki i badaczy dyskursów kolonialnych. Dekonstruowane tutaj narracje o żydowskich komunistach przynależą do głównego nurtu polskiej sfery publicznej i postrzegane są w jego obrębie jako eksperckie, wyważone, niepodporządkowane żadnej ideologii. Tropami, które łączą dyskurs kolonialny i dyskurs o żydowskich komunistach, są między innymi: orientalizacja, erotyzacja, infantylizacja, prezentacja przedmiotu badań poza kontekstem historycznym, unieważnienie kontekstu politycznych i społecznych nierówności, wreszcie obarczenie opisywanych winą za przemoc, której doświadczają.
Niezapomniany rok 1942
Authors: Weinberg Ewa
Published: October 2014

The unforgotten 1942 Ewa Weinberg relates her story of the deportations of Polish citizens to the USSR in the summer of 1940 and their life in 1942. After the Sikorski-Majski Pact had been signed and Anders‘s Army established, the deportees tried to leave Siberia for Samarkand, Uzbekistan. In Samarkand, it turned out that the category of citizenship is no more valid for the deportees: anti-Semitic acts were very common, but the persecutions were also applied to non-Roman Catholic Christians. Such behaviour was legitimate from the point of view of the majority and their model of society. When trying to get onto the train to Tehran, Weinberg’s friends and relatives (members of the Polish intelligentsia) heard a question: “You’re a nation of merchants and you do not even have a golden ring?”. In consequence, some of the cars left empty, having left stranded some Polish citizens categorised as gudłaje i kacapy (contemptuously: Jews and Russians). Niezapomniany rok 1942Świadectwo Ewy Weinberg dotyczy wywózki obywateli polskich do ZSRR latem 1940 roku i przeżyć roku 1942. Po zawarciu paktu Sikorski-Majski 31 lipca 1941 roku, na wieść o tworzeniu armii gen. Władysława Andersa deportowani przedostają się z Syberii do Samarkandy w Uzbekistanie (ZSRR). Na miejscu okazuje się, że we wspólnocie uchodźców nie obowiązuje kategoria obywatelstwa. Autorka opisuje praktyki antysemickie, a także dyskryminację chrześcijan innych niż rzymscy katolicy, jako zjawisko systemowe i prawomocne z punktu widzenia większościowego modelu kultury polskiej. Bliscy i znajomi autorki, inteligencja polska, przy próbie zajęcia miejsca w pociągu do Teheranu słyszą pytanie: „Taki naród handlowy, a nie ma bodaj obrączek?”. W efekcie część wagonów odjeżdża pusta, pozostawiając na pastwę klimatu, głodu, chorób i terroru stalinowskiego obywateli polskich zakwalifikowanych jako „gudłaje i kacapy”.
A randomized controlled trial to assess the psychosocial effects of early exercise engagement in patients diagnosed with transient ischaemic attack and mild, non-disabling stroke
Authors: Faulkner James , McGonigal Gerard , Woolley Brandon , Stoner Lee , Wong Laikin , Lambrick Danielle
Published: October 2014

Objective:

To examine the effect of an early exercise and education programme on psychosocial health of transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and mild, non-disabling stroke patients.

Design:

Randomized, parallel-group, clinical trial.

Setting:

Hospital and academic institution.

Participants:

A total of 55 newly diagnosed transient ischaemic attack/mild stroke patients (Mean[SD]; 69[11]y).

Intervention:

Participants were randomized to either an eight-week, twice weekly, 90-minute exercise and education programme (experimental group) or to a usual care control group.

Main measures:

Psychosocial measures (SF-36, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Profile of Mood States, International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Stroke Awareness Questionnaire) were assessed at baseline and eight-week and 12-month follow-up.

Results:

The experimental group demonstrated improvements in the Physical Component Score (Mean[SD]; 44.1[11.7] to 47.4[11.3]%), Vitality (46.5[12.4] to 54.2[14.2]%), Physical Functioning (45.6[10.7] to 51.9[14.7]%), Role Physical (38.7[10.8] to 43.1[13.6]%) and Global Health (49.1[10.3] to 54.4[13.6]%) from the SF-36, at the eight-week follow-up assessment ( P < 0.05). There were no further changes in these measures between the eight-week and 12-month follow-up assessment ( P > 0.05). The experimental group demonstrated a greater awareness of the signs and symptoms associated with stroke ( P < 0.05). There were no differences in the Mental Component Score (SF-36), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale or the International Physical Activity Questionnaire between treatment groups ( P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Early engagement in an exercise and education programme may improve physical health perceptions in transient ischaemic attack/mild stroke patients. However, secondary prevention exercise and education programmes warrant further research with regards to their effects on perceptions of mental health in this population group.
Syrian Hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) Oronasally Inoculated With a Nipah Virus Isolate From Bangladesh or Malaysia Develop Similar Respiratory Tract Lesions
Authors: Baseler L. , de Wit E. , Scott D. P. , Munster V. J. , Feldmann H.
Published: October 2014

Nipah virus is a paramyxovirus in the genus Henipavirus, which has caused outbreaks in humans in Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Bangladesh. Whereas the human cases in Malaysia were characterized mainly by neurological symptoms and a case fatality rate of ∼40%, cases in Bangladesh also exhibited respiratory disease and had a case fatality rate of ∼70%. Here, we compared the histopathologic changes in the respiratory tract of Syrian hamsters, a well-established small animal disease model for Nipah virus, inoculated oronasally with Nipah virus isolates from human cases in Malaysia and Bangladesh. The Nipah virus isolate from Bangladesh caused slightly more severe rhinitis and bronchointerstitial pneumonia 2 days after inoculation in Syrian hamsters. By day 4, differences in lesion severity could no longer be detected. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated Nipah virus antigen in the nasal cavity and pulmonary lesions; the amount of Nipah virus antigen present correlated with lesion severity. Immunohistochemistry indicated that both Nipah virus isolates exhibited endotheliotropism in small- and medium-caliber arteries and arterioles, but not in veins, in the lung. This correlated with the location of ephrin B2, the main receptor for Nipah virus, in the vasculature. In conclusion, Nipah virus isolates from outbreaks in Malaysia and Bangladesh caused a similar type and severity of respiratory tract lesions in Syrian hamsters, suggesting that the differences in human disease reported in the outbreaks in Malaysia and Bangladesh are unlikely to have been caused by intrinsic differences in these 2 virus isolates.
Development of Stable Liquid Glucagon Formulations for Use in Artificial Pancreas
Authors: Pohl Roderike , Li Ming , Krasner Alan , De Souza Errol
Published: October 2014

Background:

A promising approach to treat diabetes is the development of fully automated artificial/bionic pancreas systems that use both insulin and glucagon to maintain euglycemia. A physically and chemically stable liquid formulation of glucagon does not currently exist. Our goal is to develop a glucagon formulation that is stable as a clear and gel-free solution, free of fibrils and that has the requisite long-term shelf life for storage in the supply chain, short-term stability for at least 7 days at 37°C, and pump compatibility for use in a bihormonal pump.

Methods:

We report the development of two distinct families of stable liquid glucagon formulations which utilize surfactant or surfactant-like excipients (LMPC and DDM) to “immobilize” the glucagon in solution potentially through the formation of micelles and prevention of interaction between glucagon molecules.

Results:

Data are presented that demonstrate long-term physical and chemical stability (~2 years) at 5°C, short-term stability (up to 1 month) under accelerated 37°C testing conditions, pump compatibility for up to 9 days, and adequate glucose responses in dogs and diabetic swine.

Conclusions:

These stable glucagon formulations show utility and promise for further development in artificial pancreas systems.
Effect of Tai Chi Practice on Stress, Self-Esteem, and Perceived Life Expectancy and a Structural Model of Relation Among These Variables Taking Into Account Age
Authors: de la Rubia José Moral , de la O Adrian Valle , García Cadena Cirilo H. , Pérez Góngora Luis A.
Published: October 2014

The aims of this article were to (a) investigate whether practicing Tai Chi has an effect on stress, self-esteem, and perceived life expectancy and (b) contrast a structural model of relation between the three latter variables taking into account age. One scale to assess stress, another scale to assess perceived life expectancy, and the 10-item Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale were administrated to a nonprobability sample of 86 Tai Chi practitioners and 91 sedentary persons. Tai Chi practitioners had a lower level of stress, a greater self-esteem, and a greater perceived life expectancy than sedentary persons. Self-esteem had an effect on stress and perceived life expectancy, and stress had an effect on perceived life expectancy in both Tai Chi practitioners and sedentary persons. Age was correlated to self-esteem among sedentary persons, but not among Tai Chi practitioners. Age had a direct effect on perceived life expectancy among Tai Chi practitioners, but not among sedentary persons. It is concluded that Tai Chi practice has a beneficial effect on stress, perceived life expectancy, and self-esteem.
Inhibition of FcγR-mediated phagocytosis by IVIg is independent of IgG-Fc sialylation and FcγRIIb in human macrophages
Authors: Nagelkerke Sietse Q. , Dekkers Gillian , Kustiawan Iwan , van de Bovenkamp Fleur S. , Geissler Judy , Plomp Rosina , Wuhrer Manfred , Vidarsson Gestur , Rispens Theo , van den Berg Timo K. , Kuijpers Taco W.
Published: October 2014

Key Points

Phagocytosis of IgG-opsonized blood cells by human macrophages is inhibited by intravenous immunoglobulins. This inhibition is independent of IgG-Fc sialylation but improves with IgG preparations that bind FcγRs more avidly.
Oxygen kinetics during 6-minute walk tests in patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary disease
Authors: Kern Lukas , Condrau Sophie , Baty Florent , Wiegand Jan , van Gestel Arno JR , Azzola Andrea , Tamm Michael , Brutsche Martin
Published: October 2014

Background

The 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is representative of daily-life activities and reflects the functional capacity of patients. The change of oxygen uptake (VO2) in the initial phase of low-intensity exercise (VO2 kinetics) can be used to assess submaximal exercise performance of patients.

The objective of the following study was to analyse VO2 kinetics in patients with different pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, we investigated the extent to which VO2 kinetics at the onset of the 6MWT were associated with exercise capacity, morbidity and mortality.

Methods

VO2 kinetics of 204 patients and 16 healthy controls were obtained using mobile telemetric cardiopulmonary monitoring during a 6MWT. A new mean response time (MRT) index (wMRT) was developed to quantify VO2 kinetics by correcting MRT for work rate. The differences in wMRT between disease categories as well as the association between wMRT and patients’ exercise capacity and outcome - time to hospitalization/death- were tested.

Results

The assessment of a robust wMRT was feasible in 86% (244/284) patients. wMRT was increased in patients compared to healthy controls (p <0.001). wMRT was largest in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). There were significant associations between wMRT and exercise capacity in all patients. High wMRT was found to be associated with a high rate of death and re-hospitalization in patients with CHF (p = 0.024). In patients with pulmonary diseases and pulmonary hypertension wMRT was not associated with outcome (p = 0.952).

Conclusions

Submaximal exercise performance of patients is reduced. O2 kinetics at the onset of exercise are associated with exercise capacity in all patients. wMRT was found to be an important prognostic factor in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), but not with pulmonary diseases.
Editorial: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the seminal discovery that the phagocyte respiratory burst enzyme is an NADPH oxidase
Authors: Berton G , Castaldi M A , Cassatella M A , Nauseef W M
Published: October 2014

Commemorative of Dr. Filippo Rossi’s demonstration that the phagocyte respiratory burst enzyme is an NADPH oxidase.
Examining the Body through Technology: Age disputes and the UK border control system
Authors: Smith Evan , Marmo Marinella
Published: October 2014

In an effort to ascertain whether certain migrants and refugees have been telling the ‘truth’ about their age, the UK border control system has, in the past, relied on the use of skeletal x- ray to estimate the applicant’s age, and in recent years has sought to use dental x-ray for the same purpose. However using x-ray for age assessment purposes has been criticised as inaccurate in providing a reasonable estimate of age and as an unnecessary medical risk, which infringes the human rights of the applicant. This is particularly pertinent in the case of children who are victims of trafficking and unaccompanied young people who may be vulnerable to exploitation, because if declared as children, they can access a higher level of care and protection under childcare law. The article argues that the deferment to the use of x-ray to reveal the ‘truth’ in age disputes is evidence that the border control system is more concerned with keeping ‘undesirable’ people out of the UK than observing the human rights of the vulnerable people who come into contact with the system.
Mediação de conflitos e abordagens restaurativas: construindo relacionamentos saudáveis nas comunidades escolares
Authors: Meirelles Cristina
Published: October 2014

O presente artigo busca refletir sobre a importância da construção de relacionamentos pautados no respeito e na colaboração dentro do ambiente educacional. Discorre também sobre a contribuição da mediação de conflitos e das abordagens restaurativas para uma transformação da cultura da escola. Descreve a importância do desenvolvimento de ferramentas comunicacionais, da responsabilização coletiva pelo bem-estar de todos e de ações proativas e restaurativas no contexto educacional.
Del déficit habitacional a la vivienda pública ¿O al déficit nuevamente?
Authors: Degano Arq. Daniela C.
Published: October 2014

En este artículo se presenta una reflexión conceptual referida a la noción de déficit habitacional y a la necesidad de incorporar los aspectos de la sostenibilidad para paliar las carencias que, en materia habitacional, presenta la Republica Argentina en su conjunto.Se pretende reflexionar acerca de las soluciones que, respecto de la vivienda destinada a los sectores populares, son realizadas desde nuestras instituciones de gobierno, y cuáles son los instrumentos legales utilizados para la concreción de las mismas. A partir de entender al déficit habitacional no como la mera falta de viviendas–objeto sino en relación con el conjunto de la ciudad y los principios de sostenibilidad/insostenibilidad edilicia y urbana que generan, nos preguntaremos si dichas soluciones no nos sumergen en el círculo vicioso de pasar del déficit a un déficit aún mayor.
Analysis of energy and greenhouse gas balance as indexes for environmental assessment of wheat and maize farming: a case study
Authors: SAMI Móslem , SHIEKHDAVOODI Mohammad Javad , ALMASSI Morteza
Published: October 2014

In this study, the net balance of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and energy of wheat and maize production systems in two farms in Khuzestan province of Iran was assessed. The results showed that totally wheat farming is more efficient than maize farming in terms of energy and CO2-eq indexes. The total energy requirement for maize and wheat farming was 92560.24 MJ ha-1 and 39624.15 MJ ha-1, which caused the emission of 20191.47 and 7541.04 kg CO2-equivalent per hectare in maize and wheat farms respectively. Electricity, fertilizers and fuel were the most important pollutants of environment in terms of energy and gas emission in both farms. Theses inputs consumed 55.52, 22.62 and 6.44 % of total energy of maize and 47.32, 21.19 and 9.01 % of total energy of wheat farm and were responsible for the 88.60, 8.79 and 2.03 % of CO2-equivalent in maize and 86.54, 9.54 and 3.24 % of CO2-equivalent in wheat farms respectively. The results of this study also showed that the enhancement of 60.74 and 27.02 % in energy ratio and 46.06 and 27.87 % in CO2-eq index in maize and wheat farming can be expected using simple improving scenarios.
Dependence of the conservation status of acid grasslands at the Pohorje and Kozjak on socioeconomic parameters
Authors: KETIŠ Karmen , ELER Klemen , UDOVČ Andrej , BATIČ Franc
Published: October 2014

Grassland habitats were studied on twenty farms on the area of the Radlje ob Dravi administration unit, in the transect from Kozjak to Pohorje at different altitudes. The aim of the study was to investigate how environmental and  socio-economic parameters influence the diversity of plant species and, consequently, the conservation of grassland on acid soils, which are rare in Slovenia and are therefore more protected. The socioeconomic structure of farms was studied on the basis of an inquiry carried out on farms. Part-time farms prevail; the average age of farmers is 56.5 years, and 30% of farmers has no education or just elementary school. The relationship among the environmental, socio-economic parameters and floristic structures of grasslands was studied using canonic-correspondence analysis. The impact of 16 parameters was analysed, of which six were determined not to be statistically significant. The occurrence of chosen plant species was analysed in relation to environmental and socioeconomic parameters. The efficiency of agro-environmental subsidies in relation to plant species diversity was evaluated. It was determined that the education and age of farmers influence the intensity of farming and consequently have an impact on the diversity of plants species and the conservation status of grasslands.
Is Japan Ready for Enduring Powers? A Comparative Analysis of Enduring Powers Reform
Authors: Ryan Trevor
Published: October 2014

This article seeks to understand why the uptake of “third generation” enduring powers in Japan has been disappointing from the perspective of reformers who introduced the powers in 2000. In addition to questions about optimum design of this particular legal instrument, it is an opportunity to explore deeper questions about regulation and the role of law and the market in ageing, post-industrial societies such as Japan. First, the article explains the form that enduring powers take in Japan. Second, it presents statistics on the uptake of enduring powers. Third, the article presents possible reasons for this low uptake, including unsuitable social norms, a lack of awareness, excessive regulation, unresponsive doctrine, and entrenched judicial values. Finally, the article concludes that while these reasons all have explanatory value and are not easily disaggregated, comparative analysis presents some promising developments in Japan such as the growth in candidates to take on enduring powers who are regulated and organised through legal professions, civil society, local government, and the court system. At a deeper level, the article concludes that the fate of enduring powers turns not only on regulatory and doctrinal levers but also on the relative strengths within Japan’s continuing legal development of divergent views on the imposition of formal legal norms and market mechanisms upon relationships previously regulated by informal social norms or administrative decree.
Simulation of Composite Materials by a Network FEM with Error Control
Authors: Eigel Martin , Peterseim Daniel
Published: October 2014

A novel finite element method (FEM) for the computational
simulation in particle reinforced composite materials with many inclusions is presented.
It is based on a specially designed mesh consisting of triangles and channel-like connections between inclusions which form a network structure.
The total number of elements and, hence, the number of degrees of freedom are proportional to the number of inclusions.
The error of the method is independent of the possibly tiny distances of neighboring inclusions.
We present algorithmic details for the generation of the problem-adapted mesh and derive an efficient residual a posteriori error estimator which enables us to compute reliable upper and lower error bounds.
Several numerical examples illustrate the performance of the method and the error estimator.
In particular, it is demonstrated that the (common) assumption of a lattice structure of inclusions can easily lead to incorrect predictions about material properties.
Gaps in Material Specifications—A Manufacturer's Perspective
Authors: Hicks James K.
Published: October 2014

There are numerous areas of materials specifications accepted or not covered regarding current specifications in ASTM, American Concrete Institute (ACI), or other recognized standards groups. In the past, specifications made utilizing ASTM C150 portland cement and ASTM C33 aggregates were the norm. Utilization of supplementary cementitious materials added to the potential for quality improvements and cost control. Further expansion occurred with use of recycled aggregates, re-graded and blended with conventional aggregates. Newer cements and aggregates have been researched, produced on a limited basis and tested. Some have been proven to be successful and are in use commercially. Some are used in Ultra High Performance Concretes. The use of these materials has been hindered by lack of inclusion in specifications. In those cases that have had specifications for these newer materials developed, lack of acceptance by building codes, departments of transportation, and others has hindered their use. Efforts are needed to develop standard specifications as needed along with efforts to gain acceptance by building codes and transport bodies. It will describe acceptances gained and further efforts needed.
Is it necessary to increase the dose of levothyroxine in patients with hypothyroidism who use omeprazole?
Authors: Abi-Abib Raquel de Carvalho , Vaisman Mário
Published: October 2014

Objective It is believed that gastric pH interferes in levothyroxine absorption. Omeprazole, which acts by blocking the secretion of gastric acid, might interfere in hypothyroidism control in patients using levothyroxine and this effect could be dose dependent. The present study aimed to investigate this possibility. Subjects and methods Twenty-one patients with primary hypothyroidism who had been using a stabilized levothyroxine dosage for at least one year were selected and randomly assigned to take omeprazole at the dosage of 40 mg or 20 mg per day. The mean levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) before and 3 months after omeprazole usage were compared in the entire sample and in each group. Results Ten patients concluded the entire treatment protocol in the 20 mg group and nine patients in the 40 mg group. There was no significant difference in TSH levels before and 3 months after omeprazole treatment in the entire patient sample (median levels: 2.28 vs. 2.30 mU/L, respectively: p = 0.56). Analysis of each subgroup (20 and 40 mg) showed no significant variation in TSH levels before and 3 months after omeprazole treatment (median levels: 2.24 vs. 2.42 mU/L, p = 0.62, and 2.28 vs. 2.30 mU/L, p = 0.82, respectively). No significant difference in the absolute (p = 0.93) or relative (p = 0.87) delta were observed between the two subgroups. Conclusion Omeprazole in the dosage of 20 or 40 mg/day does not interfere in a clinically relevant manner in the treatment of patients with hypothyroidism that was previously under control.
Tolerância e neutralidade na reflexão contemporânea sobre a justiça
Authors: Ferraz Sérgio Eduardo
Published: October 2014

À luz das discussões normativas contemporâneas sobre a justiça, o artigo discute as noções de tolerância e de neutralidade e avalia, em termos éticos e político-institucionais, modelos de justificação da tolerância como "respeito mútuo". Examina-se, inicialmente em termos lógicos, o conceito de tolerância, transitando-se, em seguida, para concepções normativamente mais densas da noção. Após indicar a maior pertinência, no contexto de sociedades pluralistas, da concepção de tolerância como "respeito mútuo", insere-se na discussão a noção de neutralidade, endereçada às instituições políticas. Após rejeitar tentativas de ancorar a tolerância (e a neutralidade) em razões elas próprias neutras, do ponto de vista moral, o texto examina dois modelos de justificação - centrados nos valores da autonomia e da justificação razoável -, sugerindo-se a possibilidade de sua síntese a partir de perspectivas extraídas do liberalismo rawlsiano.
Efeito temporal sobre a resposta da percepção subjetiva do esforço
Authors: Pedro Rafael Evangelista , Oliveira Ricardo Santos , Vasconcelos Paulo Sérgio de Souza , Pires Junior Raymundo , Milanez Vinicius Flavio
Published: October 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: A percepção subjetiva de esforço da sessão (PSE da sessão) é um método de fácil aplicação e de muita utilidade no contexto esportivo, sendo sugerido um período de 30 min após a sessão de treinamento para sua avaliação; no entanto, não existem dados empíricos que suportem essa sugestão.OBJETIVO: Verificar a correlação e a concordância entre a percepção subjetiva de esforço (PSE) média reportada durante sessões de treinamento com valores de PSE reportados 5, 15 e 30 min após o término das sessões de treinamento, em atletas de basquetebol de ambos os gêneros.MÉTODOS: Participaram desse estudo 11 atletas do sexo feminino e nove atletas do sexo masculino. A PSE foi avaliada através da escala de PSE CR-10 a cada 20 min durante a sessão de uma hora de treinamento (PSE média da sessão) e 5, 15 ou 30 min após o término. Dessa forma, a PSE média de cada sessão de treinamento foi comparada com os valores de PSE reportados 5, 15 e 30 min após as sessões.RESULTADOS: Não houve diferença significante da PSE média entre as três sessões. As maiores correlações foram observadas entre PSE média das sessões 2 e 3 com a PSE reportada 15 e 30 min, após para homens (r = 0,92 - 0,91) e mulheres (r = 0,75 - 0,82). Os maiores valores de concordância foram verificados entre a PSE média das sessões 1 e 2 e as reportadas 15 min e 30 min após para ambos gêneros.CONCLUSÃO: Com base nos resultados, sugerimos que se evite reportar a PSE 5 min após o término da sessão. Além disso, recomendamos reportar a PSE no mínimo 15 min e, sobretudo, 30 min após o término da sessão.
Nonlinear analysis of the progressive collapse of reinforced concrete plane frames using a multilayered beam formulation
Authors: Oliveira C. E. M. , Batelo E. A. P. , Berke P. Z. , Silveira R. A. M. , Massart T. J.
Published: October 2014

This work investigates the response of two reinforced concrete (RC) plane frames after the loss of a column and their potential resistance for progressive collapse. Nonlinear dynamic analysis is performed using a multilayered Euler/Bernoulli beam element, including elasto-viscoplastic effects. The material nonlinearity is represented using one-dimensional constitutive laws in the material layers, while geometrical nonlinearities are incorporated within a corotational beam formulation. The frames were designed in accordance with the minimum requirements proposed by the reinforced concrete design/building codes of Europe (fib [1-2], Eurocode 2 [3]) and Brazil (NBR 6118 [4]). The load combinations considered for PC analysis follow the prescriptions of DoD [5]. The work verifies if the minimum requirements of the considered codes are sufficient for enforcing structural safety and robustness, and also points out the major differences in terms of progressive collapse potential of the corresponding designed structures.