bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Cyclosporine Treatment in Dogs: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Archer T.M. , Boothe D.M. , Langston V.C. , Fellman C.L. , Lunsford K.V. , Mackin A.J.
Published: December 2013

Cyclosporine is an immunomodulatory drug used to treat an increasing spectrum of diseases in dogs. Cyclosporine is a calcineurin inhibitor, ultimately exerting its inhibitory effects on T‐lymphocytes by decreasing production of cytokines, such as interleukin‐2. Although, in the United States, oral cyclosporine is approved in dogs only for treatment of atopic dermatitis, there are many other indications for its use. Cyclosporine is available in 2 oral formulations: the original oil‐based formulation and the more commonly used ultramicronized emulsion that facilitates oral absorption. Ultramicronized cyclosporine is available as an approved animal product, and human proprietary and generic preparations are also available. Bioavailability of the different formulations in dogs is likely to vary among the preparations. Cyclosporine is associated with a large number of drug interactions that can also influence blood cyclosporine concentrations. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) can be used to assist in attaining consistent plasma cyclosporine concentrations despite the effects of varying bioavailability and drug interactions.TDMcan facilitate therapeutic success by guiding dose adjustments on an individualized basis, and is recommended in cases that do not respond to initial oral dosing, or during treatment of severe, life‐threatening diseases for which a trial‐and‐error approach to dose adjustment is too risky. Pharmacodynamic assays that evaluate individual patient immune responses to cyclosporine can be used to augment information provided byTDM.
Understorey plant community dynamics following a large, mixed severity wildfire in aPinus ponderosa–Pseudotsuga menziesiiforest,Colorado,USA
Authors: Fornwalt Paula J. , Kaufmann Merrill R.
Published: December 2013

Question

How do understorey plant communities ofPinus ponderosa–Pseudotsuga menziesiiforests respond during the first 5 yrs following wildfire, and do responses vary with fire severity?

Location

ColoradoFrontRange,USA.

Methods

In 2002, theHaymanFire burned across 55 800 ha ofColoradoFrontRangeP. ponderosa–P. menziesiiforest. Also burned in the fire were 20 upland and five riparian plots within a 400‐ha study area. These plots had been surveyed for understorey plant composition and cover 5–6 yrs prior. We re‐measured all plots annually from 2003 to 2007, 1–5 yrs post‐fire. Changes in the occurrence of common understorey plant species and in metrics of understorey plant richness and cover were analysed with regard to fire severity and time since fire using repeated measuresANOVA. Compositional changes were explored using ordination.

Results

Fire severity (defined in terms of overstorey mortality, overstorey canopy consumption, and forest floor consumption) in upland plots was highly variable, with 50%, 30% and 20% of plots burning with low, moderate and high severity, respectively. For all severities, total cover in uplands declined in the first post‐fire year relative to pre‐fire levels, but met or exceeded pre‐fire levels by post‐fire year five. Total richness in uplands, however, did not similarly decline immediately following fire, due largely to a high return rate of pre‐fire species, and exceeded pre‐fire levels for all severities from post‐fire years 3–5 due to new species recruitment. Over 90% of the common upland species either were found in a similar number of plots before and after the fire, regardless of fire severity or time since fire, or were found in more plots following the fire in at least 1 yr and one severity class. Temporal changes in upland composition occurred for all severities but were most pronounced following moderate and severe fire. In contrast, riparian plots largely burned with low severity, and the understorey plant communities within them exhibited little change in richness, cover and composition over the 5 yrs.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that theHaymanFire had largely neutral or stimulatory impacts on understorey plant communities following the first five post‐fire years.
The effects of grazing depend on productivity, and what else?
Authors: Overbeck Gerhard E.
Published: December 2013

In this issue of the Journal of Vegetation Science, Lezama et al. confirm the hypothesis that the effects of grazing increase with productivity, based on data from steppes and prairies in Argentina and Uruguay. Their study can serve as a starting point for further studies addressing questions on the mechanisms behind vegetation dynamics in grassland, emphasizing the need for experimental studies over larger climatic gradients.
Clonal trait diversity in relation to invasiveness of alien macrophytes in twoHimalayanRamsar sites
Authors: Bashir Shah Ayaz , Reshi Zafar A. , Shah Manzoor A.
Published: December 2013

Questions

In view of the predominance of clonality in aquatic plants and its likely role in plant fitness, we specifically asked whether or not clonality contributes to invasiveness of macrophytes. We also aimed to explore clonal trait diversity in alien aquatic plants and evaluate its implications in the context of species invasiveness.

Location

TwoRamsar sites:HokersarWetland andLakeWular,KashmirHimalaya,India.

Methods

Extensive field surveys were carried out in the two targetRamsar sites. The clonal growth form categorization was done using theCLO‐PLA3 (clonal plant) database of clonal growth in plants, and the relationship between clonality and invasiveness was examined. We used a stage‐based hierarchical model to categorize the investigated species into different stages of invasion (StagesII,III,IVa,IVb,V) and examine proportion of clonality at various stages of invasion.

Results

A total of 62 wetland plant species were recorded, most of which (58) were alien invasives. We characterized the clonal growth organ (CGO) spectra in the target plant species and categorized them into four space occupancy strategies (i.e. spreading, non‐spreading, splitters and integrators). More than 90% of the studied plants were clonal with a tendency of increasing clonality in plants belonging to higher stages of invasion (StageV).

Conclusions

The present study revealed a significant positive correlation between clonality and species invasiveness, thereby indicating the likely contribution of clonality to invasion success. Given the paucity of studies on the contribution of clonality in invasiveness of alien species, our results have significant implications for invasion management in wetland systems.
Schema reliance and innocent alibi generation
Authors: Leins Drew A. , Charman Steve D.
Published: December 2013

Purpose

Alibis are critical components of innocent suspects' efforts to prove their innocence. However, they can often be inaccurate. Two experiments explored factors influencing innocent alibi generation. Experiment 1 tested the effect of retrieval cue (time vs. location vs. paired time and location) on report accuracy and schema reliance. Experiment 2 tested the effect of the schema consistency of critical whereabouts (consistent vs. inconsistent) on alibi accuracy and schema reliance.

Methods

Both experiments used the same paradigm: Participants engaged in a critical event (two events in Experiment 2), then participated in an ostensibly unrelated study occurring roughly 1 week later. During this unrelated study (in reality, the alibi generating portion of this study), participants were interviewed about their whereabouts for various times during the previous week (including the times of the critical events). Alibis were scored for accuracy and schema consistency.

Results

In Experiment 1, a time cue and a paired time and location cue yielded lower rates of accuracy than did a location cue. Cues including a time referent yielded high rates of schema reliance. In Experiment 2, accuracy was lower when whereabouts were schema inconsistent than when they were schema consistent. Confidence was high across conditions, irrespective of accuracy.

Conclusion

Time cuing appears to elicit schema reliance when generating alibis. Schema retrieval may inflate confidence in accuracy; thus, schema reliance may lead to inaccurate reporting, particularly when critical whereabouts are atypical.
Myeloperoxidase in chronic kidney disease: Role of visceral fat
Authors: Tsai Min‐Sung , Shaw Huey‐Mei , Li Yi‐Jen , Lin Meng‐Te , Lee Wen‐Tsung , Chan Khee‐Siang
Published: December 2013

Aim

Visceral fat is more significantly correlated with inflammation markers and oxidative stress than is subcutaneous fat. Myeloperoxidase is one inflammatory signal secreted after polymorphonuclear leukocytes are stimulated. However, few studies discuss the correlation between visceral fat and the inflammatory response in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

Sixty‐six patients with CKD were enrolled and 60 healthy participants. Visceral fat levels were obtained using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Traditional risk factors for myeloperoxidase were analyzed.

Results

Baseline myeloperoxidase levels were significantly different between patients and controls, and were correlated with visceral fat after they had been adjusted for residual renal function. A multivariate linear regression model revealed that the neutrophil count and visceral fat and serum albumin levels were significant predictors of plasma myeloperoxidase in patients with CKD, but not in controls. The neutrophil count was correlated with myeloperoxidase only in the CKD group.

Conclusion

Visceral fat predicted plasma myeloperoxidase in patients with CKD, but not in healthy controls. Myeloperoxidase was probably contributed by primed and activated neutrophils that had been irritated by visceral fat in patients with CKD.
Photochemical Generation of 9H‐Fluorenyl Radicals
Authors: Dyblenko Tatiana , Chtchemelinine Andrei , Reiter Ryan , Chowdhury Ruhul Q. , Enaya Alexander , Afifi Hanan , Fournier Rene , Mladenova Gabriela , Lever Alfred Barry P. , Lee‐Ruff Edward
Published: December 2013

A series of 9‐substituted fluorenols and 9,9′‐disubstituted‐9,9′‐bifluorenyls were irradiated to give products derived from fluorenyl radicals. Product distribution was solvent dependent. A TEMPO adduct was isolated from the photoexcitation of 9‐fluorenol. An unusual unsymmetrical 3,9′‐bifluorenyl was observed from the photolysis of 9‐trifluoromethylfluorenol and 9,9′‐di(trifluoromethyl)‐9,9′‐bifluorenyl in more polar or hydrogen‐bonding solvents. The electronic nature of 9‐substituted fluorenyl radicals was probed using theoretical calculations showing the dipolar character of species with electron‐deficient groups. These constitute the first examples of “doubly destabilized” radicals.
Mechanisms regulating auxin action during fruit development
Authors: Pattison Richard J. , Csukasi Fabiana , Catalá Carmen
Published: December 2013

Auxin controls many aspects of fruit development, including fruit set and growth, ripening and abscission. However, the mechanisms by which auxin regulates these processes are still poorly understood. While it is generally agreed that precise spatial and temporal control of auxin distribution and signaling are required for fruit development, the dynamics of auxin biosynthesis and the mechanisms for its transport to different fruit tissues are mostly unknown. Despite major advances in elucidating many aspects of auxin biology in vegetative tissues, until recently, the nature and importance of auxin metabolism, transport and signaling during fruit ontogeny remained obscure. In this review, we summarize recent research that has started to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which auxin is produced and transported in the fruit and to unravel the complexity of auxin signaling during fruit development. We also discuss recent approaches used to reveal the genes and regulatory networks that mediate cell and tissue‐specific control of auxin levels in the developing fruit.
Dynamics of Public Service Motivation: Attraction‒Selection and Socialization in the Production and Regulation of Social Services
Authors: Kjeldsen Anne Mette
Published: December 2013

The literature on public service motivation (PSM) has typically focused on the relationship between motivation and public/private sector of employment, while the character of the work being performed has been neglected. Using panel surveys with pre‐ and postentry measures ofPSMamong certified Danish social workers, this article provides a unique design for investigatingPSM‐based attraction‒selection and socialization effects with respect to the choice between work related to service production or service regulation (controlled for public/private sector of employment). The article shows that thePSMprofiles of social work students predict their preference for one of the two types of work tasks but do not predict first employment in the preferred job. Conversely, postentry shifts in social workers’PSMprofiles result from a complex interplay between influences from both work task and sector.
Uncertainty of Population Risk Estimates for Pathogens Based on QMRA or Epidemiology: A Case Study of Campylobacter in the Netherlands
Authors: Bouwknegt Martijn , Knol Anne B. , van der Sluijs Jeroen P. , Evers Eric G.
Published: December 2013

Epidemiology and quantitative microbiological risk assessment are disciplines in which the same public health measures are estimated, but results differ frequently. If large, these differences can confuse public health policymakers. This article aims to identify uncertainty sources that explain apparent differences in estimates for Campylobacter spp. incidence and attribution in the Netherlands, based on four previous studies (two for each discipline). An uncertainty typology was used to identify uncertainty sources and the NUSAP method was applied to characterize the uncertainty and its influence on estimates. Model outcomes were subsequently calculated for alternative scenarios that simulated very different but realistic alternatives in parameter estimates, modeling, data handling, or analysis to obtain impressions of the total uncertainty. For the epidemiological assessment, 32 uncertainty sources were identified and for QMRA 67. Definitions (e.g., of a case) and study boundaries (e.g., of the studied pathogen) were identified as important drivers for the differences between the estimates of the original studies. The range in alternatively calculated estimates usually overlapped between disciplines, showing that proper appreciation of uncertainty can explain apparent differences between the initial estimates from both disciplines. Uncertainty was not estimated in the original QMRA studies and underestimated in the epidemiological studies. We advise to give appropriate attention to uncertainty in QMRA and epidemiological studies, even if only qualitatively, so that scientists and policymakers can interpret reported outcomes more correctly. Ideally, both disciplines are joined by merging their strong respective properties, leading to unified public health measures.
Trust‐Level Risk Evaluation and Risk Control Guidance in the NHS East of England
Authors: Card Alan J. , Ward James R. , Clarkson P. John
Published: December 2013

In recent years, the healthcare sector has adopted the use of operational risk assessment tools to help understand the systems issues that lead to patient safety incidents. But although these problem‐focused tools have improved the ability of healthcare organizations to identify hazards, they have not translated into measurable improvements in patient safety. One possible reason for this is a lack of support for the solution‐focused process of risk control. This article describes a content analysis of the risk management strategies, policies, and procedures at all acute (i.e., hospital), mental health, and ambulance trusts (health service organizations) in the East of England area of the British National Health Service. The primary goal was to determine what organizational‐level guidance exists to support risk control practice. A secondary goal was to examine the risk evaluation guidance provided by these trusts. With regard to risk control, we found an almost complete lack of useful guidance to promote good practice. With regard to risk evaluation, the trusts relied exclusively on risk matrices. A number of weaknesses were found in the use of this tool, especially related to the guidance for scoring an event's likelihood. We make a number of recommendations to address these concerns. The guidance assessed provides insufficient support for risk control and risk evaluation. This may present a significant barrier to the success of risk management approaches in improving patient safety.
Risk factors associated with preoperative fecal carriage of extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Bert F. , Larroque B. , Dondero F. , Durand F. , Paugam‐Burtz C. , Belghiti J. , Moreau R. , Nicolas‐Chanoine M.‐H.
Published: December 2013

Objective

The aim of the study was to identify risk factors associated with pre‐transplant fecal carriage of extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in liver transplant recipients.

Patients and methods

Over a 3‐year period (January 2009–December 2011), 317 patients who underwent liver transplantation were screened preoperatively for fecal carriage of ESBL‐producing Enterobacteriaceae. Risk factors for fecal carriage were investigated by univariate analysis and stepwise logistic regression.

Results

Of the 317 patients screened, 50 (15.7%) harbored an ESBL‐producing isolate. Previous infection with an ESBL‐producing organism had developed during the last 6 months in 20% of fecal carriers versus in none of the non‐carriers. Other variables associated with fecal carriage were a model for end‐stage liver disease score ≥25, pre‐transplant stay in the intensive care unit ≥48 h, hospital stay ≥10 days in the last 6 months, a history of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), exposure to a β‐lactam agent in the last month, and prophylaxis with norfloxacin. Independent predictors of fecal carriage in the multivariate logistic regression model were exposure to a β‐lactam agent in the month preceding transplantation (odds ratio [OR] = 7.8, confidence interval [CI] = 4–15.5, P < 0.001), and a history of SBP (OR = 2.4, CI = 1.1–4.9, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Previous infection with an ESBL‐producing isolate, recent exposure to a β‐lactam agent, and a history of SBP are risk factors for preoperative fecal carriage of ESBL‐producing Enterobacteriaceae in liver transplant recipients. Patients at risk of fecal carriage should receive intraoperative prophylaxis and, when necessary, empiric postoperative antimicrobial treatment that includes coverage for these organisms.
Severe life‐threatening Ehrlichia chaffeensis infections transmitted through solid organ transplantation
Authors: Sachdev S.H. , Joshi V. , Cox E.R. , Amoroso A. , Palekar S.
Published: December 2013

Background

Donor‐derived infections from organ transplantation are rare occurrences with preoperative screening practices. Ehrlichia chaffeensis, a tick‐borne illness, transmitted through solid organ transplantation has not been reported previously to our knowledge. We present cases of 2 renal allograft recipients who developed severe E. chaffeensis infection after receipt of organs from a common deceased donor.

Methods

The 2 renal transplant patients who developed E. chaffeensis infection are reported in case study format with review of the literature.

Results

Approximately 3 weeks after renal transplantation, both patients developed an acute febrile illness and rapid clinical decline. Recipient A underwent an extensive infectious workup that revealed positive E. chaffeensis DNA from polymerase chain reaction on peripheral blood. Recipient B's clinical team obtained acute and convalescent antibody titers for E. chaffeensis, which demonstrated acute infection. Recipients A and B were treated with doxycycline and tigecycline, respectively, with clinical cure.

Conclusions

These cases demonstrate that tick‐borne pathogens, such as E. chaffeensis, can be transmitted through renal transplantation. E. chaffeensis can be associated with excessive morbidity and mortality, commonly owing to delay in diagnosis and poor response to non‐tetracycline antibiotics. In populations with endemic tick‐borne illness, donors should be questioned about tick exposure, and appropriate antibiotics can be administered if indicated.
Blood donation within the family: the transmission of values and practices
Authors: Quéniart Anne
Published: December 2013

Background

This article presents the results of our study, which aimed to examine the role of family in the transmission of practices and values associated with blood donation.

Study Design and Methods

Fifty‐two qualitative semi‐structured interviews were conducted in the province of Quebec, Canada. They were categorized into three distinct dyads (one parent and one child interviewed per dyad): 1) parent donor/child donor (10 dyads); 2) parent nondonor/child donor (8 dyads); and 3) parent donor/child nondonor (8 dyads).

Results and Conclusion

Our results point to two kinds of families: in the first type, blood donation has been an integral “part of life” for generations and we can observe a process of transmission—a set of practices that encompasses imitation or modeling. In the second type of family, the act of donating blood was perceived and defined as an individual one, in the sense of personal, and sometimes even as a private gesture: a majority of young donors started giving at their colleges' blood drives without discussing it with their families.
Some Important Issues on First-Order Reliability Analysis With Nonprobabilistic Convex Models
Authors: Jiang C. , Lu G. Y. , Han X. , Bi R. G.
Published: December 2013

Compared with the probability model, the convex model approach only requires the bound information on the uncertainty, and can make it possible to conduct the reliability analysis for many complex engineering problems with limited samples. Presently, by introducing the well-established techniques in probability-based reliability analysis, some methods have been successfully developed for convex model reliability. This paper aims to reveal some different phenomena and furthermore some severe paradoxes when extending the widely used first-order reliability method (FORM) into the convex model problems, and whereby provide some useful suggestions and guidelines for convex-model-based reliability analysis. Two FORM-type approximations, namely, the mean-value method and the design-point method, are formulated to efficiently compute the nonprobabilistic reliability index. A comparison is then conducted between these two methods, and some important phenomena different from the traditional FORMs are summarized. The nonprobabilistic reliability index is also extended to treat the system reliability, and some unexpected paradoxes are found through two numerical examples.
An Electromechanical Integrated Harmonic Piezodrive System
Authors: Xu Lizhong , Li Huaiyong
Published: December 2013

An electromechanical integrated harmonic piezodrive system is proposed. The key of the proposed piezodrive system is the integration of the piezodrive principle with the harmonic drive and the movable tooth drive principles, which changes the sliding friction between the rotor and the vibrator into a rolling mesh. It can substantially increase the system's output torque, operating life, and efficiency. In this paper, the design of the drive system and its operating principles are presented. Under piezoelectric excitation, the deformation energy of the flexible ring was analyzed and the output torque of the drive system was calculated, revealing that the drive system produces a higher output torque than does a normal bar-type ultrasonic motor.
Multi-Objective Design Optimization of a Variable Geometry Spray Fuel Injector
Authors: Archer J. R. , Fang Tiegang , Ferguson Scott , Buckner Gregory D.
Published: December 2013

This paper explores the simulation-based design optimization of a variable geometry spray (VGS) fuel injector. A multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) is interfaced with commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and high performance computing capabilities to evaluate the spray characteristics of each VGS candidate design. A three-point full factorial experimental design is conducted to identify significant design variables and to better understand possible variable interactions. The Pareto frontier of optimal designs reveals the inherent tradeoff between two performance objectives—actuator stroke and spray angle sensitivity. Analysis of these solutions provides insight into dependencies between design parameters and the performance objectives and is used to assess possible performance gains with respect to initial prototype configurations. These insights provide valuable design information for the continued development of this VGS technology.
Modulation of Oxygen Tensions via Microfabricated Devices
Authors: Oppegard Shawn C. , Eddington David T.
Published: December 2013

Oxygen is a key modulator of many cellular pathways and plays an important role in a number of cellular behaviors. The hypoxic inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) is often considered the master regulator of the cellular response to oxygen tension (1). HIF-1α is a transcription factor involved in angiogenesis, glucose transport and glycolysis, apoptosis, migration, and differentiation, among many other functions (2). Unfortunately devices permitting in vitro oxygen modulation fail to meet the needs of biomedical research due to the inability to effectively mimic conditions found in vivo. The gold standard for hypoxia work is the hypoxic chamber, but the tool requires hours for equilibration and is not effective at generating very low oxygen levels (3). As an example demonstrating this disadvantage, cancer tumor oxygenation can change in the span of minutes (4). Intermittent hypoxia, or the changing of oxygen over time, has been shown to be important in heart attack, stroke, and sleep apnea as well. Other microfluidic approaches, although offering more oxygen control, are often difficult to disseminate to other labs due to the requirement of specialized methods and equipment for their operation. In this work, a microfabricated technology has been developed to grant precise control the temporal and spatial oxygen concentration exposed to both cell monolayers in the multiwell plate as well as with 3-D cell-seeded constructs. The concept is adaptable to both pre-established and novel experiments depending on the needs of the researcher. The devices are simple to use and require minimal additional equipment beyond what is available to a standard cell culture lab.
Relative Stability Provided by the Medial Meniscus and Cruciate Ligaments at High and Low Axial Compressions
Authors: Chaudhary Miriam , John Dennis , Walker Peter S.
Published: December 2013

The ACL, PCL and medial meniscus are important stabilizing structures in the knee joint. Investigating what role they play in stability and mobility is essential to understanding how degeneration might occur in the knee. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the ACL, PCL, and medial meniscus respond to compression, shear, and torque. A custom made testing machine was used to simulate various kinematic positions. Results indicated that the medial meniscus, ACL and PCL all play a role in stabilizing the joint regardless of the compression applied.
Quantification of In Vivo Laxity in the ACL and Individual Knee Joint Structures
Authors: Westover Lindsey M. , Küpper Jessica C. , Ronsky Janet L.
Published: December 2013

In biomechanical terms, passive joint laxity is a measure of joint movement within the constraints of ligaments, capsule, and cartilage [1] when an external force is applied to the joint during a state of muscular relaxation. Excessive knee joint laxity (reduced stiffness) can result from soft tissue injury, such as a ligament tear, or from genetic factors such as benign joint hypermobility syndrome, and can predispose the joint to instability including recurrent dislocations, and low-grade inflammatory arthritis [2]. A novel technique for in vivo measurement of 3D knee joint laxity using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with a custom knee loading apparatus (KLA) has been developed in our research group [3]. Gross joint laxity is predicted based on joint displacement in response to an applied anterior tibial load. To better understand the link between laxity and instability, and to advance this technique for clinical applications, the laxity of individual joint structures, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) must be quantified.
Hemodynamic Characteristics of Growing and Stable Aneurysms
Authors: Sforza Daniel , Putman Christopher , Tateshima Satoshi , Viñuela Fernando , Cebral Juan R.
Published: December 2013

The identification of cerebral aneurysm at high risk of immediate rupture requires determining the hemodynamic conditions that predispose aneurysms for rupture as well as understanding the underlying mechanisms responsible for aneurysm progression towards rupture. Towards this end, the purpose of this work was to compare the hemodynamics in growing and stable aneurysms as well as the local hemodynamic conditions in growing and stable regions of growing aneurysms.
Characterization of a Low Extracorporeal Volume, High Accuracy Pediatric Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy Device
Authors: Santhanakrishnan Arvind , Nestle Trent , Moore Brian , Yoganathan Ajit P. , Paden Matthew L.
Published: December 2013

The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) is commonly seen in critically ill children, the origins of which may be traced to a wide range of conditions such as inborn errors of metabolism, sepsis, congenital heart defects, bone marrow and organ transplantation, and to a lesser extent from multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) [1]. It is vital to provide a form of fluid and electrolyte clearance in these patients until native renal function improves. Nearly 3,600 critically ill children per year with acute kidney injury receive life-saving continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in the United States. However, there is no CRRT device approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in pediatric patients. Thus, clinicians unsafely adapt adult CRRT devices for use in the pediatric patients due to lack of safer alternatives. Complications observed with using adult adapted CRRT devices in children include hypotension, hemorrhage, thrombosis, temperature instability, inaccurate fluid balance between ultrafiltrate (UF) removed from and replacement fluid (RF) delivered to the patient, electrolyte disorders, and alteration of drug clearance. This research addresses this unmet clinical need through the design, mechanical and biological characterization of a pediatric specific Kidney Injury and Dysfunction Support (KIDS) CRRT device that provides high accuracy in fluid balance, reduces extracorporeal blood volume, and eliminates other problems associated with using adapted adult CRRT devices in children.
Open-Sided Tibial Tray to Poly Insert Interface Does Not Generate Peripheral Fluid Flow Under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Heldreth Mark , Deffenbaugh Daren L. , Reber Erik , Rullkoetter Paul
Published: December 2013

Previous clinical publications have identified osteolysis and periprosthetic bone resorption around total knee and hip implants as a contributor to loss of implant fixation [1,2,3,4]. Fluid pressure near fixation screw holes has been studied for both its potential to drive osteolytic polyethylene debris into surrounding cancellous bone and its potential as an isolated mechanism for causing bone resorption [5,6,7]. The interaction between joint capsule pressure, cyclic loading, and lytic lesions near fixation screw holes has also been the focus of prior work [8]. Increases in joint capsule pressure and cyclic loading were both shown to cause fluid to migrate to the site of osteolytic lesions near screw holes, increasing pressure within the lesion. However, cyclic loading was not shown to increase the joint capsule driving pressure.
A Non-Relativistic Look at the Compton Effect
Authors: Feller Steve , Giri Sandeep , Zakrasek Nicholas , Affatigato Mario
Published: December 2013

In a usual modern physics class the Compton effect is used as the pedagogical model for introducing relativity into quantum effects. The shift in photon wavelengths is usually introduced and derived using special relativity. Indeed, this works well for explaining the effect. However, in the senior author's class one of the student coauthors of this paper, Sandeep Giri, asked what would happen if classical expressions for the electrons' momentum (mv) and kinetic energy [(1/2)mv2] were used. The first response given to the question was that the relevant energies were relativistic and hence this approach would not work. Further thought led to the realization that the electron receives only the difference in the energies of the incoming and outgoing photons. This left the initial conclusion in doubt and we began a serious look at what would the answer be. As a result of our analyses, we believe that the Compton effect provides the clearest pedagogical test for the need of relativity in the case of gamma ray scattering while allowing both the classical and relativistic results to explain the original x-ray results of Compton.
Mechanics from Scratch
Authors: Valadakis Andreas
Published: December 2013

Although we experience motion simply as displacement, we study it through complicated concepts such as acceleration, force, and mass, departing from our everyday experience. But it looks like we can stay attached to our primordial notions of time and length without appealing to any other concepts and still have interesting results.
Analyzing elevator oscillation with the smartphone acceleration sensors
Authors: Kuhn Jochen , Vogt Patrik , Müller Andreas
Published: December 2013

It has often been reported in this column that smartphones are very suitable tools for exploring the physical properties of everyday phenomena. A very good example of this is an elevator ride. In addition to the acceleration processes, oscillations of the cabin are interesting. The present work responds to the second aspect.
Design and outcomes of an acoustic data visualization seminar
Authors: Robinson Philip W. , Pätynen Jukka , Haapaniemi Aki , Kuusinen Antti , Leskinen Petri , Zan-Bi Morley , Lokki Tapio
Published: December 2013

Recently, the Department of Media Technology at Aalto University offered a seminar entitled Applied Data Analysis and Visualization. The course used spatial impulse response measurements from concert halls as the context to explore high-dimensional data visualization methods. Students were encouraged to represent source and receiver positions, spatial aspects, and temporal development of sound fields, frequency characteristics, and comparisons between halls, using animations and interactive graphics. The primary learning objectives were for the students to translate their skills across disciplines and gain a working understanding of high-dimensional data visualization techniques. Accompanying files present examples of student-generated, animated and interactive visualizations.
Pancreatic herniation: a rare cause of acute pancreatitis?
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Turp Matthew , Fellows Sarah , Ellis Jonathan
Published: December 2013

Acute pancreatitis is a common and potentially fatal condition, with several well-known causes including gallstones, excessive alcohol consumption and specific medications. We report a case of an 89-year-old man presenting with acute pancreatitis, which we believe to be secondary to a diaphragmatic herniation of the pancreas. This extremely rare anatomical abnormality can be found incidentally in the asymptomatic patient or may present with a variety of acute symptoms. However, there have been only isolated reports of these cases presenting as acute pancreatitis. While the majority of acute pancreatitis cases can be explained by common causes, it is important that clinicians be aware of and should consider investigating for other more unusual possibilities, such as pancreatic herniation, before labelling an episode as ‘idiopathic’.
Epstein-Barr virus-associated cholestatic hepatitis
Authors: Salva Inês , Silva Inês Vaz , Cunha Florbela
Published: December 2013

Epstein-Barr virus infection is common in children, usually presenting as infectious mononucleosis, including fever, tonsillitis and lymphadenopathy associated with self-resolving increase in transaminases. Cholestasis is rare in children with only a few cases reported but it was described in up to 55% of the adult population affected. We present a case of a 6-year-old boy with fever, vomiting and choluria. The physical examination showed hepatomegaly and jaundice and was otherwise unremarkable. The laboratory studies revealed increased transaminases (aspartate aminotransferase 97 U/L, alanine aminotransferase 166 U/L), hyperbilirubinaemia (total bilirubin 3.2 mg/dL, direct bilirubin 2.89 mg/dL) and increased γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (114 mg/dL). Urine urobilinogen was increased. The abdominal ultrasound showed hepatomegaly. Epstein-Barr viral capsid antibody IgM was positive and IgG was negative. Serological studies for other viruses were negative. We underline the need to consider Epstein-Barr virus in the cholestatic hepatitis differential diagnosis, in order to avoid unnecessary investigations.
Temperature dependence of electrical conductivity and dielectric properties in Li–Mn ferrite
Authors: Mazen S.A. , Abu-Elsaad N.I.
Published: December 2013

Manganese substituted lithium–ferrite with the general formula Li0.5–0.5xMnxFe2.5–0.5xO4 (where x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 1.0) were synthesized by the standard ceramic technique. The variation of DC and AC conductivities has been reported as a function of temperature from room temperature (293 K) up to 970 K in static air. AC measurements were carried out over a wide range of frequencies from 100 Hz up to 1 MHz. The variation ln σ at room temperature with composition indicates that the conductivity initially increases up to 0.5 and then decreases with further addition in Mn content. The activation energy of the conduction mechanism decreases from 0.68 to 0.34 eV. The electrical conductivity in the present ferrite is explained on the basis of the hopping mechanism. Dielectric properties, such as dielectric loss tangent, tanδ, and dielectric constant, ε′, have been measured. The dielectric behavior is explained by using the mechanism of the polarization process.
Exponential state estimation for discrete-time switched genetic regulatory networks with random delays
Authors: Mathiyalagan K. , Sakthivel R. , Su Hongye
Published: December 2013

This paper is concerned with the problem of state estimator design for a class of discrete-time switched genetic regulatory networks (GRNs) with random time delays. The involved time delays are assumed to be randomly time-varying and are modeled by introducing Bernoulli distributed sequences. By using a piecewise Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional together with the linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, we design a delay-distributed dependent state estimator such that the estimation error system is globally exponentially stable. Further, a class of switching signals specified by the average dwell time is identified to guarantee the exponential state estimation. All the conditions are established in the framework of LMIs, which can easily be solved by using standard numerical software. If a set of LMIs are feasible, then the desired state estimator can be obtained. Finally, a numerical example with simulation result is provided for the GRN model to illustrate the applicability and usefulness of the obtained theory.
Determination of attenuation coefficients of some wood materials based on thickness and chemical composition
Authors: Saritha B. , Nageswara Rao A.S.
Published: December 2013

The variation of linear attenuation coefficients with the densities of different samples is investigated in this paper. For this study, different types of soft wood and hard wood samples were collected from the Pakal forest area of the Warangal district, Andhra Pradesh, India. The linear and mass attenuation coefficients of different wood samples are measured using gamma ray spectrometry based on NaI(Tl) scintillation detector at the gamma ray energies of 661.6 and 59.5 keV. The experimental values of mass attenuation coefficient are compared with that of XCOM data based tool. Figures show the variation of mass attenuation coefficients of wood materials against the absorber thickness (number of mean free paths). From the numerical values, it is inferred that the large thickness of the samples reduces the scattered photons reaching the detector by decreasing the scattering angle.
VOLTAGE STABILITY IMPROVEMENT BY LOCATION OF STATCOM IN POWER SYSTEM
Authors: BANAEI M. R. , MOKHTARNEZHAD Z.
Published: December 2013

Optimal allocation static compensators (STATCOM) is important for the improvement of the voltage stability. The method used in this paper to allocating is diffeomorphism normal method that is based on calculating participation factor. In power system with the increase of loading, the network acts close to critical point, the purpose of this method is to find a proper place for STATCOM in this condition. The simulation results on two networks of 30 buses of IEEE and 39 buses of New England come by using the DIgSILENT and MATLAB softwares have well shown the desired execution of this method in enhancement the voltage stability.
A REAL-TIME TASKS SCHEDULING METHOD BASED ON DYNAMIC PRIORITY
Authors: CHEN HUI
Published: December 2013

Recently, real-time system was widely applied to diverse environments. In order to meet the demands of those applications, many scheduling strategies were presented to achieve either maximal benefit or minimum miss deadline ratio. However, very little attention has been devoted to simultaneously achieve the two objectives. This paper proposes a dynamic priority assignment (DPA) strategy by analyzing the remainder value density and urgency of task, in which, two parameters p and q are used to adjust the weights of remainder value density and urgency on task's priority. Based on DPA strategy, the condition that can avoid system thrashing is discussed, and a dynamic real-time task scheduling (DRTS) algorithm is also proposed. Finally, experimental results show that the proposed method can improve the integrated performance of real-time system compared with analogous algorithms.
A Discrete Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for the Reverse Logistics Location and Routing Problem
Authors: Guo Kun , Zhang Qishan
Published: December 2013

Reverse logistics (RL) emerges as a hot topic in both research and business with the increasing attention on the collection and recycling of the waste products. Since Location and Routing Problem (LRP) in RL is NP-complete, heuristic algorithms, especially those built upon swarm intelligence, are very popular in this research. In this paper, both Vehicle Routing Problem (RP) and Location Allocation Problem (LAP) of RL are considered as a whole. First, the features of LRP in RL are analyzed. Second, a mathematical model of the problem is developed. Then, a novel discrete artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm with greedy adjustment is proposed. The experimental results show that the new algorithm can approach the optimal solutions efficiently and effectively.
DUAL-SHIFT DECOMPOSITION AND WAVELETS
Authors: LEVAN NHAN , KUBRUSLY CARLOS S.
Published: December 2013

We introduce the notion of dual-shift decomposition of an arbitrary Hilbert space, which is given in terms of two unilateral shifts. After ensuring conditions for the existence of it, such a decomposition is then constructed for the concrete space ℒ2[0, 1], on which the two unilateral shifts are parts of the dilation-by-2 and the translation-by-1 on ℒ2(ℝ). Using multiresolution analysis (MRA) of wavelet theory it is shown the existence of a Haar-system-type orthonormal basis for ℒ2[0, 1], which is combined with the dual-shift decomposition to yield a refined decomposition for ℒ2[0, 1].
On the local behavior of the order of appearance in the Fibonacci sequence
Authors: Luca Florian , Pomerance Carl
Published: December 2013

Let z(N) be the order of appearance of N in the Fibonacci sequence. This is the smallest positive integer k such that N divides the k th Fibonacci number. We show that each of the six total possible orderings among z(N), z(N + 1), z(N + 2) appears infinitely often. We also show that for each nonzero even integer c and many odd integers c the equation z(N) = z(N + c) has infinitely many solutions N, but the set of solutions has asymptotic density zero. The proofs use a result of Corvaja and Zannier on the height of a rational function at 𝒮-unit points as well as sieve methods.
A HYDROMAGNETIC MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR BLOOD FLOW OF CARREAU FLUID
Authors: SALEEM NAJMA , HAYAT T. , ALSAEDI A.
Published: December 2013

This paper constructs a mathematical model for blood flow through an artery with mild stenosis. Constitutive equations for Carreau fluid are employed in the mathematical modeling. Analysis has been carried out in the presence of constant magnetic field. Symmetric and asymmetric shapes of stenosis are taken. Governing flow model is computed for the series solution. The flow quantities of interest, for instance, axial velocity, pressure gradient, pressure drop, impedance and shear stress at the walls of stenotic artery are described for various pertinent parameters entering into the problem.
Induction of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Release from Subtypes of T Cells by Agonists of Proteinase Activated Receptors
Authors: Yang Haiwei , Li Tao , Wei Jifu , Zhang Huiyun , He Shaoheng
Published: December 2013

Serine proteinases have been recognized as playing an important role in inflammation via proteinase activated receptors (PARs). However, little is known about the influence of serine proteinases and PARs on TNF secretion from highly purified T cells. We challenged T cells from human peripheral blood with serine proteinases and agonist peptides of PARs and measured the levels of TNF in culture supernatants by ELISA. The results showed that thrombin and trypsin, but not tryptase, stimulated approximately up to 2.5-fold increase in TNF release from T cells following 16 h incubation. Proteinase inhibitors and PAR-1 antagonist SCH 79797 almost completely abolished thrombin- and trypsin-induced TNF release from T cells. Agonist peptides of PAR-1, but not PAR-2 induced TNF release from T cells. Moreover, trypsin- and thrombin-induced upregulated expression of TNF was observed in CD4+, IL-4+, or CD25+ T cells, but not in IFN+ or IL-17+ T cells. The signaling pathways MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt are involved in the thrombin- and trypsin-induced TNF release from T cells. In conclusion, thrombin and trypsin can induce TNF release from IL-4+ and CD25+ T cells through activation of PAR-1 and therefore contribute to regulation of immune response and inflammation of the body.