bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the Failure Assessment Diagram to Evaluate the Safety of the Reactor Pressure Vessel
Authors: Chen Mingya , Lu Feng , Wang Rongshan
Published: November 2014

Analysis of multiple failure modes is the key element of the integrity evaluation of the nuclear reactor pressure vessel (RPV). While the simple single-criterion failure code provides the guidance for structural integrity, the guidance ignores the interaction between fast fracture and plastic collapse. In this paper, the differences between the reserve factor (RF) in the R6 two-criteria failure procedure and the safety coefficient (SC) in the single-criterion failure code were compared. Based on 3D finite element (FE) analyses, the option 3 failure assessment diagram (FAD) of the beltline of the RPV was established according to the R6 basic route and alternative approaches, respectively. Also, the nonconservation of the secondary stress correction parameter ρ was reviewed. In this paper, it was shown that the effect of crack sizes on the FAD is considered to be limited, and the influence of the thermal stress on the FAD is obvious in the transition region of the failure assessment curve (FAC). The FAD only considering the mechanical load encloses the FAD considering the thermal–mechanical load for the Lr smaller than 1, but it is contrary when the Lr is bigger than 1. It is not enough to just satisfy the requirement in the IWB-3612 of the ASME code because the risk of plastic-collapse failure is ignored. And in this study, the maximum nonconservation of the fracture toughness RF is more than 7% due to the approximate value of ρ. Accordingly, the accurate method in the R6 procedure should be used in the integrity assessment of the RPV under the faulted transient.
The Power of Believing: Salient Belief Predictors of Exercise Behavior in Normal Weight, Overweight, and Obese Pregnant Women
Authors: Downs Danielle Symons , Devlin Courtenay A. , Rhodes Ryan E.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Nearly 50% of U.S. women enter pregnancy as overweight or obese (OW/OB). There is a critical need to understand how to motivate OW/OB pregnant women for exercise behavior to improve their health and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose:

To examine salient Theory of Planned Behavior belief predictors of normal weight (NW) and OW/OB pregnant women’s exercise behavior (EXB) across pregnancy.

Methods:

Pregnant women (N = 357) self-reported their exercise beliefs and behavior during each pregnancy trimester. Pearson correlations were used to examine exercise beliefs-behavior associations. Stepwise regressions were used to identify trimester (TRI) 1 and TRI 2 belief predictors of TRI 2 and TRI 3 EXB, respectively, for each weight status group. Belief endorsement was examined to identify critical beliefs.

Results:

TRI 1 EXB beliefs explained 58% of the total variance (22% NW, 36% OW/OB) in TRI 2 EXB. TRI 2 EXB beliefs explained 32% of the total variance (17% NW, 15% OW/OB) in TRI 3 EXB. Individual beliefs varied by weight status and trimester. Control beliefs emerged with the lowest endorsement; making them most critical to target for exercise interventions.

Conclusion:

Prenatal exercise interventions should be weight status specific and target salient beliefs/barriers unique to the pregnancy trimesters.
Aerobic Fitness and Habitual Physical Activity in Frail and Nonfrail Community-Dwelling Elderly
Authors: Bastone Alessandra de Carvalho , Ferriolli Eduardo , Teixeira Claudine Patricia , Dias João Marcos Domingues , Dias Rosângela Corrêa
Published: November 2014

Background:

Self-reported measures of decreased aerobic fitness and low physical activity are criteria of frailty. However, research assessing aerobic fitness and physical activity levels associated with frailty is limited. Therefore, the aims of this study were to objectively assess the aerobic fitness and the physical activity level of frail and nonfrail elderly, and to examine the association between frailty, aerobic fitness and habitual physical activity.

Methods:

This study included 26 elderly (66 to 86 years), randomly selected. The groups (frail/nonfrail) were age and sex paired. Peak oxygen consumption, maximal walking distance and speed were assessed during the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT). Average daily time spent in sedentary, light, moderate and hard activity, counts, number of steps and energy expenditure were measured by accelerometry.

Results:

All variables measured by the ISWT and accelerometer differed significantly between the groups (P < .02). All aerobic fitness and physical activity variables were significantly associated with frailty, independent of the number of chronic health conditions (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Frailty is associated with low peak oxygen consumption and low physical activity level. These findings could guide future clinical trials designed to evaluate the efficacy of aerobic exercises in the prevention and treatment of frailty.
A dose of reality
Authors: Cohen Jon , Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: November 2014

Does any treatment work against Ebola? Researchers may soon find out, if they can overcome daunting ethical and practical challenges.
Charting the life-course epidemiology of influenza
Authors: Lessler Justin
Published: November 2014

How does influenza immunity develop over one's lifetime?

[Also see Report by

Fonville
et al.

]
A General Method for Rapid Determination of Antibiotic Susceptibility and Species in Bacterial Infections
Authors: Mezger Anja , Gullberg Erik , Göransson Jenny , Zorzet Anna , Herthnek David , Tano Eva , Nilsson Mats , Andersson Dan I.
Published: November 2014

To ensure correct antibiotic treatment and reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics, there is an urgent need for new rapid methods for species identification and determination of antibiotic susceptibility in infectious pathogenic bacteria. We have developed a general method for the rapid identification of the bacterial species causing an infection and the determination of their antibiotic susceptibility profiles. An initial short cultivation step in the absence and presence of different antibiotics was combined with sensitive species-specific padlock probe detection of the bacterial target DNA to allow a determination of growth (i.e., resistance) and no growth (i.e., susceptibility). A proof-of-concept was established for urinary tract infections in which we applied the method to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of
Escherichia coli
for two drugs with 100% accuracy in 3.5 h. The short assay time from sample to readout enables fast appropriate treatment with effective drugs and minimizes the need to prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics due to unknown resistance profiles of the treated infection.
Ultradeep Pyrosequencing of NS3 To Predict Response to Triple Therapy with Protease Inhibitors in Previously Treated Chronic Hepatitis C Patients
Authors: Larrat Sylvie , Kulkarni Om , Claude Jean-Baptiste , Beugnot Réjane , Blum Michaël G. B. , Fusillier Katia , Lupo Julien , Tremeaux Pauline , Plages Agnès , Marlu Alice , Duborjal Hervé , Signori-Schmuck Anne , Francois Olivier , Zarski Jean-Pierre , Morand Patrice , Leroy Vincent
Published: November 2014

Despite the gain in sustained virological responses (SVR) provided by protease inhibitors (PIs), failures still occur. The aim of this study was to determine if a baseline analysis of the NS3 region using ultradeep pyrosequencing (UDPS) can help to predict an SVR. Serum samples from 40 patients with previously nonresponding genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C who were retreated with triple therapy, including a PI, were analyzed. Baseline UDPS of the NS3 gene was performed on plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Mutations conferring resistance to PIs were sought. The overall diversity of the quasispecies was evaluated by calculating the Shannon entropy (SE). Resistance mutations were found in plasma and PBMC but were not discriminating enough to predict an SVR. NS3 quasispecies heterogeneity was significantly lower at baseline in patients achieving an SVR than in those not achieving an SVR (SE of 26.98 ± 16.64 × 10
−3
versus 44.93 ± 19.58 × 10
−3
,
P
= 0.0047). With multivariate analysis, the independent predictors of an SVR were fibrosis of stage F ≤2 (odds ratio [OR], 13.3; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25 to 141.096;
P
< 0.03) and SE below the median (OR, 5.4; 95% CI, 1.22 to 23.87;
P
< 0.03). More than the presence of minor mutations at the baseline in plasma or in PBMC, the NS3 viral heterogeneity determined by UDPS is an independent factor for an SVR in previously treated patients receiving triple therapy that includes a PI.
Identification and Mutagenesis of the Adeno-Associated Virus 5 Sialic Acid Binding Region
Authors: Afione Sandra , DiMattia Michael A. , Halder Sujata , Di Pasquale Giovanni , Agbandje-McKenna Mavis , Chiorini John A.
Published: November 2014

As a genus, the dependoviruses use a diverse group of cell surface carbohydrates for attachment and entry. Despite the fact that a majority of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) utilize sialic acid (SIA) for binding and transduction, this virus-carbohydrate interaction is poorly understood. Utilizing X-ray crystallography, two SIA binding regions were mapped for AAV5. The first site mapped to the depression in the center of the 3-fold axis of symmetry, while the second site was located under the βHI loop close to the 5-fold axis. Mutagenesis of amino acids 569 and 585 or 587 within the 3-fold depression resulted in elimination or alteration in SIA-dependent transduction, respectively. This change in SIA binding was confirmed using glycan microarrays. Mutagenesis of the second site identified a role in transduction that was SIA independent. Further studies of the mutants at the 3-fold site demonstrated a change in transduction activity and cell tropism
in vivo
as well as resistance to neutralization by a polyclonal antibody raised against the wild-type virus.

IMPORTANCE
Despite the fact that a majority of AAVs utilize sialic acid for binding and transduction, this virus-carbohydrate interaction is poorly understood. Utilizing X-ray crystallography, the sialic acid binding regions of AAV5 were identified and studied using a variety of approaches. Mutagenesis of this region resulted in elimination or alteration in sialic acid-dependent transduction in cell lines. This change in sialic acid glycan binding was confirmed using glycan arrays. Further study also demonstrated a change in transduction and activity and cell tropism
in vivo
as well as resistance to neutralization by antibodies raised against the wild-type virus.
The Large Tegument Protein pUL36 Is Essential for Formation of the Capsid Vertex-Specific Component at the Capsid-Tegument Interface of Herpes Simplex Virus 1
Authors: Fan Wan H. , Roberts Ashley P. E. , McElwee Marion , Bhella David , Rixon Frazer J. , Lauder Rebecca
Published: November 2014

Herpesviruses have a characteristic particle structure comprising an icosahedral capsid, which contains the DNA genome and is, in turn, surrounded by a proteinaceous tegument layer and a lipid envelope. In herpes simplex virus, the interaction between the capsid and tegument is limited to the capsid vertices and involves two minor capsid proteins, pUL17 and pUL25, and the large inner tegument protein pUL36. pUL17 and pUL25 form a heterodimeric structure, the capsid vertex-specific component (CVSC), that lies on top of the peripentonal triplexes, while pUL36 has been reported to connect the CVSC to the penton. In this study, we used virus mutants with deletions in the genes for pUL36 and another inner tegument protein, pUL37, to analyze the contributions of these proteins to CVSC structure. Using electron cryomicroscopy and icosahedral reconstruction of mutants that express pUL17 and pUL25 but not pUL36, we showed that in contrast to accepted models, the CVSC is not formed from pUL17 and pUL25 on their own but requires a contribution from pUL36. In addition, the presence of full-length pUL36 results in weak density that extends the CVSC toward the penton, suggesting either that this extra density is formed directly by pUL36 or that pUL36 stabilizes other components of the vertex-tegument interface.

IMPORTANCE
Herpesviruses have complex particles that are formed as a result of a carefully controlled sequence of assembly steps. The nature of the interaction between two of the major particle compartments, the icosahedral capsid and the amorphous tegument, has been extensively studied, but the identity of the interacting proteins and their roles in forming the connections are still unclear. In this study, we used electron microscopy and three-dimensional reconstruction to analyze virus particles formed by mutants that do not express particular interacting proteins. We show that the largest viral protein, pUL36, which occupies the layer of tegument closest to the capsid, is essential for formation of structurally normal connections to the capsid. This demonstrates the importance of pUL36 in the initial stages of tegument addition and provides new insights into the process of virus particle assembly.
An unusual tale of rat-bite fever endocarditis
Authors: Fenn Dominic William , Ramoutar Anil , Jacob George , Bin Xiao Han
Published: November 2014

A 49-year-old man presented to our department with an acute history of right leg tenderness, rash, swelling and fever. CT of the chest, abdomen and pelvis and a transoesophageal echocardiogram confirmed the diagnosis of mitral valve infective endocarditis with distal splenic emboli. Positive blood cultures revealed the causative organism to beStreptobacillus moniliformis. The patient was treated with high-dose antibiotics and had mitral valve replacement surgery.
Inconsistent condom use by male clients during anal intercourse with occasional and regular female sex workers (FSWs): survey findings from southern states of India
Authors: Ramanathan Shreena , Nagarajan Karikalan , Ramakrishnan Lakshmi , Mainkar Mandar K , Goswami Prabuddhagopal , Yadav Diwakar , Sen Shrabanti , George Bitra , Rachakulla Harikumar , Subramanian Thilakavathi , Paranjape Ramesh S
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Self-reported anal intercourse by female sex workers (FSWs) documented in recent studies from India range between 11.9% and 22%. However, comparable data on anal intercourse and condom use from male clients of FSWs is lacking. Using data from a bio-behavioural survey (2009–2010), we examined prevalence of anal intercourse, male clients’ self-reported inconsistent condom use during anal intercourse with FSWs, and correlates of this behaviour in India's high HIV prevalence southern states (Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu combined).

Methods

Using two-stage time location cluster sampling, we recruited 4803 clients of FSWs, ages 18–60 years, who had purchased sex from an FSW in the past month. After obtaining informed consent, respondents were interviewed and tested for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with inconsistent condom use during anal intercourse (in the past 6 months) with FSWs.

Results

Overall, 12.3% clients reported anal intercourse in the past 6 months, of whom 48.4% used condoms inconsistently. Clients of FSWs who were ages 26 years or older (AOR 2.68, p=0.032); employed as manual labourers (AOR 2.43, p=0.013); consumed alcohol (AOR 2.63, p=0.001); reported five or more sex acts with FSWs in the past month (AOR 2.53, p=0.031); and perceived themselves to be at higher risk for HIV (AOR 4.82, p=0.001) were more likely to inconsistently use condoms during anal intercourse.

Conclusions

The results suggest that sex workers and their clients commonly practice anal intercourse, but a relatively high proportion of clients do not consistently use condoms, leading to a greater risk of acquiring HIV and its further transmission to other male and female sexual partners. Given the multidirectional risk, safer sex communication on heterosexual anal intercourse must be incorporated into HIV prevention programmes.
Classification of osteoarthritis phenotypes by metabolomics analysis
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Likhodii Sergei , Zhang Yuhua , Aref-Eshghi Erfan , Harper Patricia E , Randell Edward , Green Roger , Martin Glynn , Furey Andrew , Sun Guang , Rahman Proton , Zhai Guangju
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To identify metabolic markers that can classify patients with osteoarthritis (OA) into subgroups.

Design

A case-only study design was utilised.

Participants

Patients were recruited from those who underwent total knee or hip replacement surgery due to primary OA between November 2011 and December 2013 in St. Clare's Mercy Hospital and Health Science Centre General Hospital in St. John's, capital of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Canada. 38 men and 42 women were included in the study. The mean age was 65.2±8.7 years.

Outcome measures

Synovial fluid samples were collected at the time of their joint surgeries. Metabolic profiling was performed on the synovial fluid samples by the targeted metabolomics approach, and various analytic methods were utilised to identify metabolic markers for classifying subgroups of patients with OA. Potential confounders such as age, sex, body mass index (BMI) and comorbidities were considered in the analysis.

Results

Two distinct patient groups, A and B, were clearly identified in the 80 patients with OA. Patients in group A had a significantly higher concentration on 37 of 39 acylcarnitines, but the free carnitine was significantly lower in their synovial fluids than in those of patients in group B. The latter group was further subdivided into two subgroups, that is, B1 and B2. The corresponding metabolites that contributed to the grouping were 86 metabolites including 75 glycerophospholipids (6 lysophosphatidylcholines, 69 phosphatidylcholines), 9 sphingolipids, 1 biogenic amine and 1 acylcarnitine. The grouping was not associated with any known confounders including age, sex, BMI and comorbidities. The possible biological processes involved in these clusters are carnitine, lipid and collagen metabolism, respectively.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that OA consists of metabolically distinct subgroups. Identification of these distinct subgroups will help to unravel the pathogenesis and develop targeted therapies for OA.
Antimicrobial peptides of the genus Bacillus: a new era for antibiotics
Authors: Sumi Chandra Datta , Yang Byung Wook , Yeo In-Cheol , Hahm Young Tae
Published: November 2014

The rapid onset of resistance reduces the efficacy of most conventional antimicrobial drugs and is a general cause of concern for human well-being. Thus, there is great demand for a continuous supply of novel antibiotics to combat this problem. Bacteria-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have long been used as food preservatives; moreover, prior to the development of conventional antibiotics, these AMPs served as an efficient source of antibiotics. Recently, peptides produced by members of the genus Bacillus were shown to have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against pathogenic microbes. Bacillus-derived AMPs can be synthesized both ribosomally and nonribosomally and can be classified according to peptide biosynthesis, structure, and molecular weight. The precise mechanism of action of these AMPs is not yet clear; however, one proposed mechanism is that these AMPs kill bacteria by forming channels in and (or) disrupting the bacterial cell wall. Bacillus-derived AMPs have potential in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as the food and agricultural sectors. Here, we focus on Bacillus-derived AMPs as a novel alternative approach to antibacterial drug development. We also provide an overview of the biosynthesis, mechanisms of action, applications, and effectiveness of different AMPs produced by members of the Bacillus genus, including several recently identified novel AMPs.
Origin and status of the Gran Sasso INFN Laboratory
Authors: Votano Lucia
Published: November 2014

The Gran Sasso National Laboratory of INFN (LNGS) is the largest underground laboratory for astroparticle physics in the world. Located in Italy between the cities of L'Aquila and Teramo, 120 km far from Rome, is a research infrastructure mainly dedicated to astroparticle and neutrino physics. It offers the most advanced underground facility in terms of dimensions, complexity and completeness of its infrastructures. LNGS is one of the four national laboratories run by the Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare (INFN).

The scientific program at LNGS is mainly focused on astroparticle, particle and nuclear physics. The laboratory presently hosts many experiments as well as R&D activities, including world-leading research in the fields of solar neutrinos, accelerator neutrinos (CNGS neutrino beam from CERN to Gran Sasso), dark matter (DM), neutrinoless double beta decay (2β0ν) and nuclear cross-section of astrophysical interest. Associate sciences like earth physics, biology and fundamental physics complement the activities. The laboratory is operated as an international science facility and hosts experiments whose scientific merit is assessed by an international advisory Scientific Committee.

A review of the main experiments carried out at LNGS will be given, together with the most recent and relevant scientific results achieved.
Impedance spectroscopic and dielectric properties of nanosized Y2/3Cu3Ti4O12 ceramic
Authors: Sharma Sunita , Yadav Shiv Sundar , Singh M. M. , Mandal K. D.
Published: November 2014

Yttrium Copper Titanate ( Y 2/3 Cu 3 Ti 4 O 12) nanoceramic is structurally analogous to CaCu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (CCTO). X-ray diffraction (XRD) of Y 2/3 Cu 3 Ti 4 O 12 (YCTO) shows the presence of all normal peaks of CCTO. SEM micrograph exhibits the presence of bimodal grains of size ranging from 1–2 μm. Bright field TEM image clearly displays nanocrystalline particle which is supported by presence of a few clear rings in the corresponding selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern. It exhibits a high value of dielectric constant (ε′ = 8434) at room temperature and 100 Hz frequency with characteristic relaxation peaks. Impedance and modulus studies revealed the presence of temperature-dependent Maxwell–Wagner type of relaxation in the ceramic.
Theoretical investigation of the magnetic ordering and the superconducting state in rare earth iron pnictides
Authors: Abbaoui S. , Zaoui A. , Kacimi S. , Djermouni M. , Bououdina M.
Published: November 2014

The superconductivity and magnetic phenomena of the rare earth iron pnictides R FePO (R = La , Sm ) are analyzed using ab initio density functional theory in the local density approximation (LDA) with the on-site Hubbard U eff parameter (LDA + U). The results of the magnetic properties, band structures and Fermi surfaces of the recently synthesized tetragonal layered iron pnictides superconductor SmFePO are presented in comparison with the superconductor LaFePO . The anti-ferromagnetic state [ Sm : AFM, Fe AFM_stripe] is found to be the most stable than the other possible phases, which is in agreement with experiment. The effect of the Hubbard correction is investigated and is found to be a necessary requirement for the accurate description of both the electronic structure and the Fermi surfaces.
Bank Capital and Financial Stability: An Economic Trade-Off or a Faustian Bargain?
Authors: Thakor Anjan V.
Published: November 2014

Financial crises impose large and persistent social costs, making banking stability important. This article reviews the central issues surrounding the role bank capital plays in financial stability. Because the socially efficient capital level may exceed banks’ privately optimal capital levels, regulatory capital requirements become germane. But such requirements may entail various bank-level and social costs. Thus, despite agreement that higher capital would enhance banking stability, recognition of these costs has generated theoretical disagreement over whether capital requirements should be higher. Empirical evidence reveals that, in the cross section of banks, higher capital is associated with higher lending, higher liquidity creation, higher bank values, and higher probabilities of surviving crises. Moreover, increases in capital requirements are met with modest declines in lending. The overarching message from research is that lower capital in banking leads to higher systemic risk and a higher probability of a government-funded bailout that may elevate government debt and trigger a sovereign debt crisis. Thus, capital regulation reform, as well as tax policy, should seek to increase bank capital. This article discusses the contemporary thinking on these issues and concludes with open research questions.
Nitric oxide induces cancer stem cell-like phenotypes in human lung cancer cells
Authors: Yongsanguanchai Nuttida , Pongrakhananon Varisa , Mutirangura Apiwat , Rojanasakul Yon , Chanvorachote Pithi
Published: November 2014

Even though tremendous advances have been made in the treatment of cancers during the past decades, the success rate among patients with cancer is still dismal, largely because of problems associated with chemo/radioresistance and relapse. Emerging evidence has indicated that cancer stem cells (CSCs) are behind the resistance and recurrence problems, but our understanding of their regulation is limited. Rapid reversible changes of CSC-like cells within tumors may result from the effect of biological mediators found in the tumor microenvironment. Here we show how nitric oxide (NO), a key cellular modulator whose level is elevated in many tumors, affects CSC-like phenotypes of human non-small cell lung carcinoma H292 and H460 cells. Exposure of NO gradually altered the cell morphology toward mesenchymal stem-like shape. NO exposure promoted CSC-like phenotype, indicated by increased expression of known CSC markers, CD133 and ALDH1A1, in the exposed cells. These effects of NO on stemness were reversible after cessation of the NO treatment for 7 days. Furthermore, such effect was reproducible using another NO donor, S-nitroso- N-acetylpenicillamine. Importantly, inhibition of NO by the known NO scavenger 2-(4-carboxy-phenyl)-4,4,5,5 tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxy-3-oxide strongly inhibited CSC-like aggressive cellular behavior and marker expression. Last, we unveiled the underlying mechanism of NO action through the activation of caveolin-1 (Cav-1), which is upregulated by NO and is responsible for the aggressive behavior of the cells, including anoikis resistance, anchorage-independent cell growth, and increased cell migration and invasion. These findings indicate a novel role of NO in CSC regulation and its importance in aggressive cancer behaviors through Cav-1 upregulation.
A novel method of selective ablation of afferent renal nerves by periaxonal application of capsaicin
Authors: Foss Jason D. , Wainford Richard D. , Engeland William C. , Fink Gregory D. , Osborn John W.
Published: November 2014

Renal denervation has been shown to lower arterial pressure in some hypertensive patients, yet it remains unclear whether this is due to ablation of afferent or efferent renal nerves. To investigate the role of afferent renal nerves in arterial pressure regulation, previous studies have used methods that disrupt both renal and nonrenal afferent signaling. The present study was conducted to develop and validate a technique for selective ablation of afferent renal nerves that does not disrupt other afferent pathways. To do this, we adapted a technique for sensory denervation of the adrenal gland by topical application of capsaicin and tested the hypothesis that exposure of the renal nerves to capsaicin (renal-CAP) causes ablation of afferent but not efferent renal nerves. Renal-CAP had no effect on renal content of the efferent nerve markers tyrosine hydroxylase and norepinephrine; however, the afferent nerve marker, calcitonin gene-related peptide was largely depleted from the kidney 10 days after intervention, but returned to roughly half of control levels by 7 wk postintervention. Moreover, renal-CAP abolished the cardiovascular responses to acute pharmacological stimulation of afferent renal nerves. Renal-CAP rats showed normal weight gain, as well as cardiovascular and fluid balance regulation during dietary sodium loading. To some extent, renal-CAP did blunt the bradycardic response and increase the dipsogenic response to increased salt intake. Lastly, renal-CAP significantly attenuated the development of deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension. These results demonstrate that renal-CAP effectively causes selective ablation of afferent renal nerves in rats.
Angiotensin II increases fibronectin and collagen I through the β-catenin-dependent signaling in mouse collecting duct cells
Authors: Cuevas Catherina A. , Gonzalez Alexis A. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C. , Vio Carlos P. , Prieto Minolfa C.
Published: November 2014

The contribution of angiotensin II (ANG II) to renal and tubular fibrosis has been widely reported. Recent studies have shown that collecting duct cells can undergo mesenchymal transition suggesting that collecting duct cells are involved in interstitial fibrosis. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an essential role in development, organogenesis, and tissue homeostasis; however, the dysregulation of this pathway has been linked to fibrosis. In this study, we investigated whether AT1receptor activation induces the expression of fibronectin and collagen I via the β-catenin pathway in mouse collecting duct cell line M-1. ANG II (10−7M) treatment in M-1 cells increased mRNA, protein levels of fibronectin and collagen I, the β-catenin target genes (cyclin D1 and c-myc), and the myofibroblast phenotype. These effects were prevented by candesartan, an AT1receptor blocker. Inhibition of the β-catenin degradation with pyrvinium pamoate (pyr; 10−9M) prevented the ANG II-induced expression of fibronectin, collagen I, and β-catenin target genes. ANG II treatment promoted the accumulation of β-catenin protein in a time-dependent manner. Because phosphorylation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibits β-catenin degradation, we further evaluated the effects of ANG II and ANG II plus pyr on p-ser9-GSK-3β levels. ANG II-dependent upregulation of β-catenin protein levels was correlated with GSK-3β phosphorylation. These effects were prevented by pyr. Our data indicate that in M-1 collecting duct cells, the β-catenin pathway mediates the stimulation of fibronectin and collagen I in response to AT1receptor activation.
Respiratory sinus arrhythmia as a surrogate measure of respiratory frequency: validity and robustness to activity in rats
Authors: Brouillard Charly , Carrive Pascal , Similowski Thomas , Sévoz-Couche Caroline
Published: November 2014

Recording of breathing frequency is a basic requirement for respiratory physiology. Usual techniques are invasive and constraining. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) has recently been demonstrated to be a simple way to obtain respiration frequency at rest. In this study, we investigated whether this correlation is also observed during activity. We first compared RSA to the respiration frequency obtained in anesthetized rats using a pneumotachograph connected to the trachea (TRF). Data analyses using Passing and Bablok regression confirmed the absence of bias and proportional differences. Accordingly, the Bland-Altman plot did not show any significant differences in data sets. In a second experiment, we compared RSA to the respiration frequency obtained in freely moving rats using a subpleurally inserted telemetric catheter (PRF). Comparisons between RSA and PRF revealed no significant difference in determination of respiratory rate with the two methods, although the bias and confidence interval were greater when activity increased. This was, however, not the case during short episodes of sniffing-like tachypnea, during which no matching RSA peaks were observed. In conclusion, RSA frequency reflected regular respiration frequency independently of the level of activity and appears to be a good surrogate to usual techniques.
Surprise signals in the supplementary eye field: rectified prediction errors drive exploration-exploitation transitions
Authors: Kawaguchi Norihiko , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Saito Naohiro , Furusawa Yoshito , Tanji Jun , Aoki Masashi , Mushiake Hajime
Published: November 2014

Visual search is coordinated adaptively by monitoring and predicting the environment. The supplementary eye field (SEF) plays a role in oculomotor control and outcome evaluation. However, it is not clear whether the SEF is involved in adjusting behavioral modes based on preceding feedback. We hypothesized that the SEF drives exploration-exploitation transitions by generating “surprise signals” or rectified prediction errors, which reflect differences between predicted and actual outcomes. To test this hypothesis, we introduced an oculomotor two-target search task in which monkeys were required to find two valid targets among four identical stimuli. After they detected the valid targets, they exploited their knowledge of target locations to obtain a reward by choosing the two valid targets alternately. Behavioral analysis revealed two distinct types of oculomotor search patterns: exploration and exploitation. We found that two types of SEF neurons represented the surprise signals. The error-surprise neurons showed enhanced activity when the monkey received the first error feedback after the target pair change, and this activity was followed by an exploratory oculomotor search pattern. The correct-surprise neurons showed enhanced activity when the monkey received the first correct feedback after an error trial, and this increased activity was followed by an exploitative, fixed-type search pattern. Our findings suggest that error-surprise neurons are involved in the transition from exploitation to exploration and that correct-surprise neurons are involved in the transition from exploration to exploitation.
Electrophysiological indices of surround suppression in humans
Authors: Vanegas M. Isabel , Blangero Annabelle , Kelly Simon P.
Published: November 2014

Surround suppression is a well-known example of contextual interaction in visual cortical neurophysiology, whereby the neural response to a stimulus presented within a neuron's classical receptive field is suppressed by surrounding stimuli. Human psychophysical reports present an obvious analog to the effects seen at the single-neuron level: stimuli are perceived as lower-contrast when embedded in a surround. Here we report on a visual paradigm that provides relatively direct, straightforward indices of surround suppression in human electrophysiology, enabling us to reproduce several well-known neurophysiological and psychophysical effects, and to conduct new analyses of temporal trends and retinal location effects. Steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEP) elicited by flickering “foreground” stimuli were measured in the context of various static surround patterns. Early visual cortex geometry and retinotopic organization were exploited to enhance SSVEP amplitude. The foreground response was strongly suppressed as a monotonic function of surround contrast. Furthermore, suppression was stronger for surrounds of matching orientation than orthogonally-oriented ones, and stronger at peripheral than foveal locations. These patterns were reproduced in psychophysical reports of perceived contrast, and peripheral electrophysiological suppression effects correlated with psychophysical effects across subjects. Temporal analysis of SSVEP amplitude revealed short-term contrast adaptation effects that caused the foreground signal to either fall or grow over time, depending on the relative contrast of the surround, consistent with stronger adaptation of the suppressive drive. This electrophysiology paradigm has clinical potential in indexing not just visual deficits but possibly gain control deficits expressed more widely in the disordered brain.
Sedation and Regional Anesthesia for Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ozlu Onur , Sanalbas Sema , Yazicioglu Dilek , Utebey Gulten , Baran Ilkay
Published: November 2014

Objective. To present the conscious sedation and the regional anesthesia technique, consisting of scalp block and superficial cervical plexus block, used in our institution for patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods. The study included 26 consecutive patients. A standardized anesthesia protocol was used and clinical data were collected prospectively. Results. Conscious sedation and regional anesthesia were used in all cases. The dexmedetomidine loading dose was 1 μg kg−1 and mean infusion rate was 0.26 μg kg−1 h−1 (0.21) [mean total dexmedetomidine dose: 154.68 μg (64.65)]. Propofol was used to facilitate regional anesthesia. Mean propofol dose was 1.68 mg kg (0.84) [mean total propofol dose: 117.72 mg (59.11)]. Scalp block and superficial cervical plexus block were used for regional anesthesia. Anesthesia related complications were minor. Postoperative pain was evaluated; mean visual analog scale pain scores were 0 at the postoperative 1st and 6th hours and 4 at the 12th and 24th hours. Values are mean (standard deviation). Conclusions. Dexmedetomidine sedation along with scalp block and SCPB provides good surgical conditions and pain relief and does not interfere with neurophysiologic testing during DBS for PD. During DBS the SCPB may be beneficial for patients with osteoarthritic cervical pain. This trial is registered with Clinical Trials Identifier NCT01789385.
Health-Related Quality of Life of Rural Clients Seeking Telepsychology Services
Authors: Tarlow Kevin R. , McCord Carly E. , Elliott Timothy R. , Brossart Daniel F.
Published: November 2014

Sixty million US residents live in rural areas, but health policies and interventions developed from an urban mindset often fail to address the significant barriers to health experienced by these local communities. Telepsychology, or psychological services delivered by distance via technology, is an emerging treatment modality with special implications for underserved rural areas. This study found that a sample of rural residents seeking telepsychology services(n=94)had low health-related quality of life (HRQOL), often due to cooccurring physical and mental health diagnoses including high rates of depression. However, a brief telepsychology treatment delivered to rural clients(n=40)was associated with an improvement in mental health-related quality of life(d = 0.70,  P<.001). These results indicate that despite the complex health needs of these underserved communities, telepsychology interventions may help offset the disparities in health service access in rural areas.
Modulation ofTinospora rumphiiand Zinc Salt on DNA Damage in Quinoline-Induced Genotoxicity and Hepatotoxicity in Male Albino Mice
Authors: Tan Roger Salvacion , Bajo Lydia M.
Published: November 2014

Tinospora rumphii(T. rumphii) is a folkloric medicinal plant that is widely distributed in Asia and Africa. It has been widely used by locals to treat many diseases including jaundice, which is a manifestation of liver damage. We investigated the action ofT. rumphiicrude extract together with zinc sulphate, a known tumor modulator, on hepatic injuries induced by intraperitoneal (i.p) injections of quinoline on albino mice. The hepatotoxic effect was assessed by bilirubin concentration in the blood serum, while the genotoxic effect was determined by single-cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE). The mice orally fed with the crude extracts, following quinoline exposure, had reduced serum bilirubin concentration and DNA damage. Mice treated with Zinc sulphate, on the other hand, had remarkably reduced DNA damage on hepatocytes. Our findings showed that hepatoprotective potential ofT. rumphiiextract is dose-dependent and that utilization of the extract as medicinal remedy must be strictly monitored, while zinc was proven to reverse genotoxic effect of quinoline. This study unraveled the potential ofT. rumphiiextract and zinc as important hepatoprotective agents for future treatment of hepatic damage caused by chemotherapeutic agents used in cancer treatment.
Dynamics Modeling of a Continuum Robotic Arm with a Contact Point in Planar Grasp
Authors: Dehghani Mohammad , Moosavian S. Ali A.
Published: November 2014

Grasping objects by continuum arms or fingers is a new field of interest in robotics. Continuum manipulators have the advantages of high adaptation and compatibility with respect to the object shape. However, due to their extremely nonlinear behavior and infinite degrees of freedom, continuum arms cannot be easily modeled. In fact, dynamics modeling of continuum robotic manipulators is state-of-the-art. Using the exact modeling approaches, such as theory of Cosserat rod, the resulting models are either too much time-taking for computation or numerically unstable. Thus, such models are not suitable for applications such as real-time control. However, based on realistic assumptions and using some approximations, these systems can be modeled with reasonable computational efforts. In this paper, a planar continuum robotic arm is modeled, considering its backbone as two circular arcs. In order to simulate finger grasping, the continuum arm experiences a point-force along its body. Finally, the results are validated using obtained experimental data.
Bifurcation Structure in a Bimodal Piecewise Linear Business Cycle Model
Authors: Avrutin Viktor , Sushko Iryna , Tramontana Fabio
Published: November 2014

We study the bifurcation structure of the parameter space of a 1D continuous piecewise linear bimodal map which describes dynamics of a business cycle model introduced by Day-Shafer. In particular, we obtain the analytical expression of the boundaries of several periodicity regions associated with attracting cycles of the map (principal cycles and related fin structure). By crossing these boundaries the map displays robust chaos.
Fournier’s Gangrene as a Postoperative Complication of Inguinal Hernia Repair
Authors: Dinc Tolga , Kayilioglu Selami Ilgaz , Sozen Isa , Yildiz Baris Dogu , Coskun Faruk
Published: November 2014

Fournier’s gangrene is the necrotizing fasciitis of perianal, genitourinary, and perineal regions. Herein, we present a case of scrotal Fournier’s gangrene as a postoperative complication of inguinal hernia repair. A 51-year-old male with giant indirect hernia is presented. Patient underwent inguinal hernia repair, and after an unproblematic recovery period, he was discharged. He applied to our outpatient clinic on the fifth day with swollen and painful scrotum and it turned out to be Fournier’s gangrene. Polypropylene mesh was not infected. Patient recovered and was discharged after repeated debridements. Basic principles in treatment of Fournier’s gangrene are comprised of initial resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics therapy, and early aggressive debridement. In the management of presented case, aggressive debridement was made right after diagnosis and broad-spectrum antibiotics were given to the hemodynamically stable patient. In these circumstances, the important question is whether we could prevent occurrence of Fournier’s gangrene.
ANCA Associated Vasculitis and Renal Failure Related to Propylthiouracil and Hyperthyroidism Induced Cholestasis in the Same Case
Authors: Tuncay Mehmet , Kivrakoglu Emine , Yegenaga Itir , Dervisoglu Erkan
Published: November 2014

Introduction. Liver involvement due to hyperthyroidism and also ANCA positive vasculitis related renal failure cases were reported separately several times before. However, to our knowledge, these two complications together in the same case had never been observed before.Case Presentation. The case of an ANCA positive 71-year-old Caucasian male with renal failure and lung involvement, subclinical hyperthyroidism, and intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice was presented in this paper. After exclusion of all of the other possibilities, cholestatic hepatitis was explained by subclinical hyperthyroidism; renal failure and lung involvement were interpreted as ANCA related vasculitis which might be a side effect of propylthiouracil use.Conclusion. The coexistence of these rare conditions in the same patient deserves emphasis and it is worth reporting. This case demonstrates that following the clinical course of the patient is essential after prescribing any medications to see whether any complication occurs or not. If the complications of this case were noticed earlier, it would be possible to treat and to prevent the permanent damages.
Ameliorating Effects of Iron and Zinc onVigna mungoL. Treated with Tannery Effluent
Authors: Srivastava Shefali , Mishra Kumkum , Tandon Pramod Kumar
Published: November 2014

Different dilutions, that is, 25, 50, 75, and 100%, of tannery effluent (TE) were chosen for the present study to assess the phytotoxic effects onVigna mungoL. For amelioration purposes, different levels and combinations of iron and zinc were supplied to the plants along with 50% TE that is chosen on the basis of prior test under Petri dish culture. Cytotoxic and biochemical analysis and plant tolerance index (PTI) of plant were observed. Mitotic index deceased with increase in effluent concentration whereas abnormality % was increased. The pigments (chlorophyll a, total, and carotenoids) were decreased with increasing treatment levels of TE at both growth stages. However, carotenoid content increased significantly at all dilution levels of TE after first growth stage. Chlorophyll b was increased significantly after 35 days of growth but decreased after 70 days. The protein contents were also significantly decreased with increase in all TE treatments and increased significantly in zinc recovery treatments. Activities of catalase and peroxidase enzymes were significantly affected and increased significantly with effluent treatments. PTI showed an enhanced tolerance capacity of plant with treatment of iron and zinc. A negative correlation was found (r=-0.97) between plant height and different dilutions of effluent whereas it was positively correlated (r=0.95) with iron and zinc treatments. The study represents the ameliorative effect of iron and zinc for phytotoxic damage inV. mungocaused by tannery effluent.
A Numerical Method for 1-D Parabolic Equation with Nonlocal Boundary Conditions
Authors: Tadi M. , Radenkovic Miloje
Published: November 2014

This paper is concerned with a local method for the solution of one-dimensional parabolic equation with nonlocal boundary conditions. The method uses a coordinate transformation. After the coordinate transformation, it is then possible to obtain exact solutions for the resulting equations in terms of the local variables. These exact solutions are in terms of constants of integration that are unknown. By imposing the given boundary conditions and smoothness requirements for the solution, it is possible to furnish a set of linearly independent conditions that can be used to solve for the constants of integration. A number of examples are used to study the applicability of the method. In particular, three nonlinear problems are used to show the novelty of the method.
The Airport Gate Assignment Problem: A Survey
Authors: Bouras Abdelghani , Ghaleb Mageed A. , Suryahatmaja Umar S. , Salem Ahmed M.
Published: November 2014

The airport gate assignment problem (AGAP) is one of the most important problems operations managers face daily. Many researches have been done to solve this problem and tackle its complexity. The objective of the task is assigning each flight (aircraft) to an available gate while maximizing both conveniences to passengers and the operational efficiency of airport. This objective requires a solution that provides the ability to change and update the gate assignment data on a real time basis. In this paper, we survey the state of the art of these problems and the various methods to obtain the solution. Our survey covers both theoretical and real AGAP with the description of mathematical formulations and resolution methods such as exact algorithms, heuristic algorithms, and metaheuristic algorithms. We also provide a research trend that can inspire researchers about new problems in this area.