bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dislocation-Governed Plastic Deformation and Fracture Toughness of Nanotwinned Magnesium
Authors: Zhou Lei , Guo Ya-Fang
Published: August 2015

In this work, the plastic deformation mechanisms responsible for mechanical properties and fracture toughness in nanotwinned (NT) magnesium is studied by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The influence of twin boundary (TBs) spacing and crack position on deformation behaviors are investigated. The microstructure evolution at the crack tip are not exactly the same for the left edge crack (LEC) and the right edge crack (REC) models according to calculations of the energy release rate for dislocation nucleation at the crack tip. The LEC growth initiates in a ductile pattern and then turns into a brittle cleavage. In the REC model, the atomic decohesion occurs at the crack tip to create a new free surface which directly induces a brittle cleavage. A ductile to brittle transition is observed which mainly depends on the competition between dislocation motion and crack growth. This competition mechanism is found to be correlated with the TB spacing. The critical values are 10 nm and 13.5 nm for this transition in LEC and REC models, respectively. Essentially, the dislocation densities affected by the TB spacing play a crucial role in the ductile to brittle transition.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Anti-Cancer Activity of Some New N′-(2-Oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-2-propylpentane hydrazide-hydrazones Derivatives
Authors: El-Faham Ayman , Farooq Muhammad , Khattab Sherine , Abutaha Nael , Wadaan Mohammad , Ghabbour Hazem , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: August 2015

Eight novel N′-(2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)-2-propylpentane hydrazide-hydrazone derivatives 4a–h were synthesized and fully characterized by IR, NMR (1H-NMR and 13C-NMR), elemental analysis, and X-ray crystallography. The cyto-toxicity and in vitro anti-cancer evaluation of the prepared compounds have been assessed against two different human tumour cell lines including human liver (HepG2) and leukaemia (Jurkat), as well as in normal cell lines derived from human embryonic kidney (HEK293) using MTT assay. The compounds 3e, 3f, 4a, 4c, and 4e revealed promising anti-cancer activities in tested human tumour cells lines (IC50 values between 3 and 7 μM) as compared to the known anti-cancer drug 5-Fluorouracil (IC50 32–50 μM). Among the tested compounds, 4a showed specificity against leukaemia (Jurkat) cells, with an IC50 value of 3.14 μM, but this compound was inactive in liver cancer and normal cell lines.
Synthesis and Consecutive Reactions of α-Azido Ketones: A Review
Authors: Faiz Sadia , Zahoor Ameer , Rasool Nasir , Yousaf Muhammad , Mansha Asim , Zia-Ul-Haq Muhammad , Jaafar Hawa
Published: August 2015

This review paper covers the major synthetic approaches attempted towards the synthesis of α-azido ketones, as well as the synthetic applications/consecutive reactions of α-azido ketones.
Synthesis of Photoswitchable Magnetic Au–Fullerosome Hybrid Nanomaterials for Permittivity Enhancement Applications
Authors: Wang Min , Jeon Seaho , Su Chefu , Yu Tzuyang , Tan Loon-Seng , Chiang Long
Published: August 2015

We designed and synthesized several nanomaterials 3 of three-layered core-shell (γ-FeOx@AuNP)@[C60(>DPAF-C9)1or2]n nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs having e−-polarizable fullerosome structures located at the outer layer were fabricated from highly magnetic core-shell γ-FeOx@AuNPs. Fullerosomic polarization of 3 was found to be capable of causing a large amplification of material permittivity that is also associated with the photoswitching effect in the frequency range of 0.5‒4.0 GHz. Multilayered synthetic construction allows Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) of photoinduced accumulative surface plasmon resonance (SPR) energy in the gold layer to the partially bilayered C60(>DPAF-C9)1or2-derived fullerosome membrane shell layer in a near-field of direct contact without producing radiation heat, which is commonly associated with SPR.
Rapid Estimation of Tocopherol Content in Linseed and Sunflower Oils-Reactivity and Assay
Authors: Prevc Tjaša , Levart Alenka , Cigić Irena , Salobir Janez , Ulrih Nataša , Cigić Blaž
Published: August 2015

The reactivity of tocopherols with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was studied in model systems in order to establish a method for quantifying vitamin E in plant oils. The method was optimized with respect to solvent composition of the assay medium, which has a large influence on the course of reaction of tocopherols with DPPH. The rate of reaction of α-tocopherol with DPPH is higher than that of γ-tocopherol in both protic and aprotic solvents. In ethyl acetate, routinely applied for the analysis of antioxidant potential (AOP) of plant oils, reactions of tocopherols with DPPH are slower and concentration of tocopherols in the assay has a large influence on their molar reactivity. In 2-propanol, however, two electrons are exchanged for both α- and γ-tocopherols, independent of their concentration. 2-propanol is not toxic and is fully compatible with polypropylene labware. The chromatographically determined content of tocopherols and their molar reactivity in the DPPH assay reveal that only tocopherols contribute to the AOP of sunflower oil, whereas the contribution of tocopherols to the AOP of linseed oil is 75%. The DPPH assay in 2-propanol can be applied for rapid and cheap estimation of vitamin E content in plant oils where tocopherols are major antioxidants.
Novel Coumarin-Containing Aminophosphonatesas Antitumor Agent: Synthesis, Cytotoxicity, DNA-Binding and Apoptosis Evaluation
Authors: Li Ya-Jun , Wang Cai-Yi , Ye Man-Yi , Yao Gui-Yang , Wang Heng-Shan
Published: August 2015

A series of novel coumarin-containing α-aminophosphonates were synthesized and evaluated for their antitumor activities against Human colorectal (HCT-116), human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (human KB) and human lung adenocarcinoma (MGC-803) cell lines in vitro. Compared with 7-hydroxy-4-methylcoumarin (4-MU), most of the derivatives showed an improved antitumor activity. Compound 8j (diethyl 1-(3-(4-methyl-2-oxo-2H-chromen-7-yloxy) propanamido)-1-phenylethyl-Phosphonate), with IC50 value of 8.68 μM against HCT-116 cell lines, was about 12 fold than that of unsubstituted parent compound. The mechanism investigation proved that 8c, 8d, 8f and 8j were achieved through the induction of cell apoptosis by G1 cell-cycle arrest. In addition, the further mechanisms of compound 8j-induced apoptosis in HCT-116 cells demonstrated that compound 8j induced the activations of caspase-9 and caspase-3 for causing cell apoptosis, and altered anti- and pro-apoptotic proteins. DNA-binding experiments suggested that some derivatives bind to DNA through intercalation. The results seem to imply the presence of an important synergistic effect between coumarin and aminophosphonate, which could contribute to the strong chelating properties of aminophosphonate moiety.
Adaptation to Lactose in Lactase Non Persistent People: Effects on Intolerance and the Relationship between Dairy Food Consumption and Evalution of Diseases
Authors: Szilagyi Andrew
Published: August 2015

Dairy foods contain complex nutrients which interact with the host. Yet, evolution of lactase persistence has divided the human species into those that can or cannot digest lactose in adulthood. Such a ubiquitous trait has differential effects on humanity. The literature is reviewed to explore how the divide affects lactose handling by lactase non persistent persons. There are two basic differences in digesters. Firstly, maldigesters consume less dairy foods, and secondly, excess lactose is digested by colonic microflora. Lactose intolerance in maldigesters may occur with random lactose ingestion. However, lactose intolerance without maldigestion tends to detract from gaining a clear understanding of the mechanisms of symptoms formation and leads to confusion with regards to dairy food consumption. The main consequence of intolerance is withholding dairy foods. However, regular dairy food consumption by lactase non persistent people could lead to colonic adaptation by the microbiome. This process may mimic a prebiotic effect and allows lactase non persistent people to consume more dairy foods enhancing a favorable microbiome. This process then could lead to alterations in outcome of diseases in response to dairy foods in lactose maldigesters. The evidence that lactose is a selective human prebiotic is reviewed and current links between dairy foods and some diseases are discussed within this context. Colonic adaptation has not been adequately studied, especially with modern microbiological techniques.
Roughening Conjugated Polymer Surface for Enhancing the Charge Collection Efficiency of Sequentially Deposited Polymer/Fullerene Photovoltaics
Authors: Jang Yoonhee , Seo Ji-Won , Seok Jeesoo , Lee Jung-Yong , Kim Kyungkon
Published: August 2015

A method that enables the formation of a rough nano-scale surface for conjugated polymers is developed through the utilization of a polymer chain ordering agent (OA). 1-Chloronaphthalene (1-CN) is used as the OA for the poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) layer. The addition of 1-CN to the P3HT solution improves the chain ordering of the P3HT during the film formation process and increases the surface roughness of the P3HT film compared to the film prepared without 1-CN. The roughened surface of the P3HT film is utilized to construct a P3HT/fullerene bilayer organic photovoltaic (OPV) by sequential solution deposition (SqSD) without thermal annealing process. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the SqSD-processed OPV utilizing roughened P3HT layer is 25% higher than that utilizing a plain P3HT layer. It is revealed that the roughened surface of the P3HT increases the heterojunction area at the P3HT/fullerene interface and this resulted in improved internal charge collection efficiency, as well as light absorption efficiency. This method proposes a novel way to improve the PCE of the SqSD-processed OPV, which can be applied for OPV utilizing low band gap polymers. In addition, this method allows for the reassessment of polymers, which have shown insufficient performance in the BSD process.
A High Performance Remote Sensing Product Generation System Based on a Service Oriented Architecture for the Next Generation of Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites
Authors: Kalluri Satya , Gundy James , Haman Brian , Paullin Anthony , Van Rompay Paul , Vititoe David , Weiner Allan
Published: August 2015

The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) series R, S, T, U (GOES-R) will collect remote sensing data at several orders of magnitude compared to legacy missions, 24 × 7, over its 20-year operational lifecycle. A suite of 34 Earth and space weather products must be produced at low latency for timely delivery to forecasters. A ground system (GS) has been developed to meet these challenging requirements, using High Performance Computing (HPC) within a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA). This approach provides a robust, flexible architecture to support the operational GS as it generates remote sensing products by ingesting and combining data from multiple sources. Test results show that the system meets the key latency and availability requirements for all products.
Land Cover and Crop Type Classification along the Season Based on Biophysical Variables Retrieved from Multi-Sensor High-Resolution Time Series
Authors: Waldner François , Lambert Marie-Julie , Li Wenjuan , Weiss Marie , Demarez Valérie , Morin David , Marais-Sicre Claire , Hagolle Olivier , Baret Frédéric , Defourny Pierre
Published: August 2015

With the ever-increasing number of satellites and the availability of data free of charge, the integration of multi-sensor images in coherent time series offers new opportunities for land cover and crop type classification. This article investigates the potential of structural biophysical variables as common parameters to consistently combine multi-sensor time series and to exploit them for land/crop cover classification. Artificial neural networks were trained based on a radiative transfer model in order to retrieve high resolution LAI, FAPAR and FCOVER from Landsat-8 and SPOT-4. The correlation coefficients between field measurements and the retrieved biophysical variables were 0.83, 0.85 and 0.79 for LAI, FAPAR and FCOVER, respectively. The retrieved biophysical variables’ time series displayed consistent average temporal trajectories, even though the class variability and signal-to-noise ratio increased compared to NDVI. Six random forest classifiers were trained and applied along the season with different inputs: spectral bands, NDVI, as well as FAPAR, LAI and FCOVER, separately and jointly. Classifications with structural biophysical variables reached end-of-season overall accuracies ranging from 73%–76% when used alone and 77% when used jointly. This corresponds to 90% and 95% of the accuracy level achieved with the spectral bands and NDVI. FCOVER appears to be the most promising biophysical variable for classification. When assuming that the cropland extent is known, crop type classification reaches 89% with spectral information, 87% with the NDVI and 81%–84% with biophysical variables.
Efficient Sparse Signal Transmission over a Lossy Link Using Compressive Sensing
Authors: Wu Liantao , Yu Kai , Cao Dongyu , Hu Yuhen , Wang Zhi
Published: August 2015

Reliable data transmission over lossy communication link is expensive due to overheads for error protection. For signals that have inherent sparse structures, compressive sensing (CS) is applied to facilitate efficient sparse signal transmissions over lossy communication links without data compression or error protection. The natural packet loss in the lossy link is modeled as a random sampling process of the transmitted data, and the original signal will be reconstructed from the lossy transmission results using the CS-based reconstruction method at the receiving end. The impacts of packet lengths on transmission efficiency under different channel conditions have been discussed, and interleaving is incorporated to mitigate the impact of burst data loss. Extensive simulations and experiments have been conducted and compared to the traditional automatic repeat request (ARQ) interpolation technique, and very favorable results have been observed in terms of both accuracy of the reconstructed signals and the transmission energy consumption. Furthermore, the packet length effect provides useful insights for using compressed sensing for efficient sparse signal transmission via lossy links.
Simulation of Water Level Fluctuations in a Hydraulic System Using a Coupled Liquid-Gas Model
Authors: Wang Chao , Yang Jiandong , Nilsson Håkan
Published: August 2015

A model for simulating vertical water level fluctuations with coupled liquid and gas phases is presented. The Preissmann implicit scheme is used to linearize the governing equations for one-dimensional transient flow for both liquid and gas phases, and the linear system is solved using the chasing method. Some classical cases for single liquid and gas phase transients in pipelines and networks are studied to verify that the proposed methods are accurate and reliable. The implicit scheme is extended using a dynamic mesh to simulate the water level fluctuations in a U-tube and an open surge tank without consideration of the gas phase. Methods of coupling liquid and gas phases are presented and used for studying the transient process and interaction between the phases, for gas phase limited in a chamber and gas phase transported in a pipeline. In particular, two other simplified models, one neglecting the effect of the gas phase on the liquid phase and the other one coupling the liquid and gas phases asynchronously, are proposed. The numerical results indicate that the asynchronous model performs better, and are finally applied to a hydropower station with surge tanks and air shafts to simulate the water level fluctuations and air speed.
Cytotype distribution patterns, ecological differentiation, and genetic structure in a diploid–tetraploid contact zone of Cardamine amara
Authors: Zozomová‐Lihová Judita , Malánová‐Krásná Iva , Vít Petr , Urfus Tomáš , Senko Dušan , Svitok Marek , Kempa Matúš , Marhold Karol
Published: August 2015

• Premise of the study: Contact zones between diploids and their autopolyploid descendants represent a unique evolutionary venue for studying polyploid establishment, cytotype coexistence, and interactions. Here, we examine cytotype coexistence in a diploid–tetraploid contact zone of a perennial herb, Cardamine amara, located north of the Alps by assessing cytotype spatial patterns, ecological divergence, and genetic variation and structure.

• Methods: Flow cytometry was applied to screen DNA ploidy levels in 302 populations (3296 individuals) and the genetic variation of a selection of 25 populations was examined using microsatellite and AFLP markers. Environmental (landscape and climatic) data were analyzed to assess ecological differentiation between the cytotypes.

• Key results: A parapatric distribution of the cytotypes with a relatively wide (over 100 km in some regions) secondary contact zone was identified. Mixed‐ploidy populations, documented for the first time in this species, as well as triploid individuals were found along the diploid–tetraploid borderline. Different climatic requirements of the two main cytotypes were revealed, mirrored in their altitudinal separation. The tetraploids were genetically differentiated from both the diploids and the modeled, in silico autotetraploid genotypes, in accordance with the assumed polyploid origin and spread linked to past glaciations, and largely independent evolution in allopatry.

• Conclusions: The observed spatial and genetic patterns likely reflect the evolutionary and colonization history of the two cytotypes and have been maintained by multiple factors such as ecological divergence, limited gene flow between the cytotypes, and the restricted dispersal capacity.
Challenges in Subtrochanteric Femur Fracture Management
Authors: Hak David J. , Wu Haotian , Dou Chenhao , Mauffrey Cyril , Stahel Philip F.
Published: August 2015

Subtrochanteric femur fractures present significant treatment challenges. The deforming muscle forces make fracture reduction difficult. Treatment options include cephalomedullary nailing and various types of plate fixation. There is a high rate of treatment complications, including malunion, delayed union, nonunion, and implant failure. [Orthopedics.2015; 38(8):498–502.]
Hip Resurfacing Implants
Authors: Cadossi Matteo , Tedesco Giuseppe , Sambri Andrea , Mazzotti Antonio , Giannini Sandro
Published: August 2015

Educational Objectives

As a result of reading this article, physicians should be able to:

1.

Describe the advantages of hip resurfacing.

2.

Describe the disadvantages of hip resurfacing.

3.

Identify the population in which hip resurfacing is most often indicated.

4.

Demonstrate how to properly postoperatively manage patients with metal-on-metal prostheses.

Hip resurfacing offers a suitable solution for young patients affected by hip disease who have high function demands and good bone quality. Bone stock preservation, restoration of the normal proximal femur anatomy, the lack of stress shielding, and the possibility of resuming sporting activity are proven advantages of hip resurfacing. However, there are some disadvantages, such as fracture of the femoral neck, onset of neck narrowing, and possible complications due to the metal-on-metal bearings, including pseudotumors, peri-implant osteolysis, and chronic elevation of metal ions in serum levels. Recent data suggest that the ideal candidate for hip resurfacing is an active male, younger than 65 years, with primary or posttraumatic osteoarthritis, and with a femoral head diameter larger than 50 to 54 mm. Based on these selection criteria, the literature reports implant survival to be similar to that of total hip arthroplasty. The current authors’ experience confirms a low failure rate and excellent functional outcomes, with metal ion serum levels becoming stable over time in well-functioning implants. Proper surgical technique, correct patient selection, and the right choice of a well-established prosthetic model are essential elements for the long-term success of these implants. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(8):504–509.]
Outcome Measures in Total Joint Arthroplasty: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Halawi Mohamad J.
Published: August 2015

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is the most commonly performed surgical procedure for the treatment of advanced degenerative joint diseases. Numerous outcome measures for TJA have been developed, which can be reported by physicians, patients, or both. Although outcome tools were traditionally centered on morbidity, mortality, and implant survival, the focus has evolved over recent years to joint-specific, disease-specific, activity-specific, general well-being, and quality of life assessments. However, despite the importance of outcome measures in a time of growing demand for TJA and increased government scrutiny fueled by high implant costs, there remains no “gold standard” method to assess the impact of TJA. The aim of this review is to evaluate the currently available literature on outcome measures in joint arthroplasty, highlighting the strengths and limitations of commonly used instruments. Because outcomes are influenced by a multitude of intangible factors, there is an increasing role for assessing patient satisfaction as a simple way to account for the complex aspects of care. Strategies including proper patient selection and establishing realistic expectations preoperatively are critical to optimizing outcomes. In an era of increasing public scrutiny, the current state of conflicting results and variable correlations among outcome measures implores the need for a standardized system that should incorporate a metric for patient satisfaction adjusted for preoperative expectations. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(8):e685–e689.]
Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty for Management of Postinfectious Arthropathy With Rotator Cuff Deficiency
Authors: Morris Brent J. , Waggenspack Wame N. , Laughlin Mitzi S. , Elkousy Hussein A. , Gartsman Gary M. , Edwards T. Bradley
Published: August 2015

Treatment of patients with rotator cuff deficiency and arthritis in the setting of a prior glenohumeral infection (postinfectious arthropathy) is complex, with little evidence to guide treatment. The current authors present their approach to management of these patients and clinical outcomes after reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). All primary RSAs performed for postinfectious arthropathy and rotator cuff deficiency with native glenohumeral joints were identified in a prospective shoulder arthroplasty registry. Eight patients with a minimum of 2-year follow-up were included in the analysis. Clinical outcomes, including the Constant score, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, the Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Shoulder (WOOS) index, the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) score, and range of motion measurements, were assessed preoperatively and at final follow-up. At an average follow-up of 4.4 years, no patient had a clinically detectable recurrence of infection. Significant improvements were noted in all outcome scores from preoperative evaluation to final follow-up after RSA, including Constant score (
P
=.003), ASES score (
P
<.001), WOOS index (
P
=.002), SANE score (
P
=.025), forward flexion (
P
<.001), abduction (
P
<.001), and external rotation (
P
=.020). Seven of 8 patients reported they were satisfied or very satisfied at final follow-up. Reverse shoulder arthroplasty can be performed in patients without significant medical comorbidities in the setting of postinfectious arthropathy and rotator cuff deficiency with a low risk of recurrence of infection. Significant clinical improvements were noted at short-term follow-up. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(8):e701–e707.]
Successful Bone Healing of Nonunion After Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy for Smokers Treated With Teriparatide
Authors: Uemura Takuya , Okada Mitsuhiro , Yokoi Takuya , Shintani Kosuke , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: August 2015

Ulnar shortening osteotomy is widely performed as the standard surgical treatment for ulnar impaction syndrome and has a high percentage of success for pain relief. However, delayed union and nonunion of the osteotomy site remain the most concerning complications. In particular, smokers have a higher incidence of nonunion, which amounts to 30% of cases. For the treatment of nonunion, secondary surgical interventions such as bone grafting will be necessary but are extremely challenging. Recently, teriparatide (recombinant human parathyroid hormone [PTH 1–34]) administration has been reported in several clinical studies as a noninvasive pharmacological systemic treatment for fracture healing or nonunion. The authors present 2 cases of smokers, a 62-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman, with nonunion after ulnar shortening osteotomy and fixation with 6-hole non-locking plate for ulnar impaction syndrome. For treatment of nonunion, noninvasive therapy with teriparatide (20-µg, subcutaneous injection) in addition to low-intensity pulsed ultrasound was underwent. In both cases, partial bone union began to be observed on radiographs after the first 4 weeks of teriparatide administration and successful bone healing without additional surgical interventions was achieved after 10 and 6 months of treatment with teriparatide, respectively. The current case reports showed that non-invasive combination therapy of teriparatide and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound were a possible alternative to surgical intervention. In the future, teriparatide therapy might be applied actively to patients who have risk factors for delayed union, such a heavy smoking habit, and are expected to experience nonunion after ulnar shortening osteotomy. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(8):e733–e737.]
Displaced Medial and Lateral Bucket Handle Meniscal Tears With Intact ACL and PCL
Authors: Boody Barrett S. , Omar Imran M. , Hill James A.
Published: August 2015

Bucket handle lesions are vertical longitudinal tears in the meniscus that may displace centrally into the respective medial or lateral compartment, frequently causing mechanical symptoms, including pain, perceived instability, and mechanical locking. Bucket handle meniscal tears are most commonly from a traumatic etiology and are frequently found with concomitant anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Multiple imaging signs and associations have been described for the diagnosis of bucket handle meniscus tears, including coronal truncation, absent bow tie sign, double posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), double ACL, displacement of the bucket handle fragment, and disproportionate posterior horn signs. Among meniscal pathology encountered on magnetic resonance imaging or during arthroscopy, bucket handle meniscal tears are infrequent occurrences. Furthermore, the occurrence of displaced medial and lateral bucket handle tears found on imaging and during arthroscopy is very uncommon and is only sparsely reported in the literature. When displaced medial and lateral bucket handle meniscal segments are visualized within the intercondylar notch along with the ACL and PCL, the radiologic findings are referred to as the “quadruple cruciate” sign or the “Jack and Jill lesion.” Of the few case reports described in the literature, only one noted displaced medial and lateral bucket handle meniscus tears with an intact ACL and PCL. The current case report outlines a similar rare case of the quadruple cruciate sign: displaced medial and lateral bucket handle meniscal tears located within the intercondylar notch and an intact ACL and PCL. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(8):e738–e741.]
Heme Oxygenase-1 Regulation of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 Expression Underlies Distinct Disease Profiles in Tuberculosis
Authors: Andrade Bruno B. , Pavan Kumar Nathella , Amaral Eduardo P. , Riteau Nicolas , Mayer-Barber Katrin D. , Tosh Kevin W. , Maier Nolan , Conceição Elisabete L. , Kubler Andre , Sridhar Rathinam , Banurekha Vaithilingam V. , Jawahar Mohideen S. , Barbosa Theolis , Manganiello Vincent C. , Moss Joel , Fontana Joseph R. , Marciano Beatriz E. , Sampaio Elizabeth P. , Olivier Kenneth N. , Holland Steven M. , Jackson Sharon H. , Moayeri Mahtab , Leppla Stephen , Sereti Irini , Barber Daniel L. , Nutman Thomas B. , Babu Subash , Sher Alan
Published: August 2015

Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is characterized by oxidative stress and lung tissue destruction by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The interplay between these distinct pathological processes and the implications for TB diagnosis and disease staging are poorly understood. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) levels were previously shown to distinguish active from latent TB, as well as successfully treated Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. MMP-1 expression is also associated with active TB. In this study, we measured plasma levels of these two important biomarkers in distinct TB cohorts from India and Brazil. Patients with active TB expressed either very high levels of HO-1 and low levels of MMP-1 or the converse. Moreover, TB patients with either high HO-1 or MMP-1 levels displayed distinct clinical presentations, as well as plasma inflammatory marker profiles. In contrast, in an exploratory North American study, inversely correlated expression of HO-1 and MMP-1 was not observed in patients with other nontuberculous lung diseases. To assess possible regulatory interactions in the biosynthesis of these two enzymes at the cellular level, we studied the expression of HO-1 and MMP-1 in M. tuberculosis–infected human and murine macrophages. We found that infection of macrophages with live virulent M. tuberculosis is required for robust induction of high levels of HO-1 but not MMP-1. In addition, we observed that CO, a product of M. tuberculosis–induced HO-1 activity, inhibits MMP-1 expression by suppressing c-Jun/AP-1 activation. These findings reveal a mechanistic link between oxidative stress and tissue remodeling that may find applicability in the clinical staging of TB patients.
Role of B Cells in Mucosal Vaccine–Induced Protective CD8+ T Cell Immunity against Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Khera Amandeep K. , Afkhami Sam , Lai Rocky , Jeyanathan Mangalakumari , Zganiacz Anna , Mandur Talveer , Hammill Joni , Damjanovic Daniela , Xing Zhou
Published: August 2015

Emerging evidence suggests a role of B cells in host defense against primary pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). However, the role of B cells in TB vaccine–induced protective T cell immunity still remains unknown. Using a viral-vectored model TB vaccine and a number of experimental approaches, we have investigated the role of B cells in respiratory mucosal vaccine–induced T cell responses and protection against pulmonary TB. We found that respiratory mucosal vaccination activated Ag-specific B cell responses. Whereas respiratory mucosal vaccination elicited Ag-specific T cell responses in the airway and lung interstitium of genetic B cell–deficient (Jh−/− knockout [KO]) mice, the levels of airway T cell responses were lower than in wild-type hosts, which were associated with suboptimal protection against pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis challenge. However, mucosal vaccination induced T cell responses in the airway and lung interstitium and protection in B cell–depleted wild-type mice to a similar extent as in B cell–competent hosts. Furthermore, by using an adoptive cell transfer approach, reconstitution of B cells in vaccinated Jh−/− KO mice did not enhance anti-TB protection. Moreover, respiratory mucosal vaccine–activated T cells alone were able to enhance anti-TB protection in SCID mice, and the transfer of vaccine-primed B cells alongside T cells did not further enhance such protection. Alternatively, adoptively transferring vaccine-primed T cells from Jh−/− KO mice into SCID mice only provided suboptimal protection. These data together suggest that B cells play a minimal role, and highlight a central role by T cells, in respiratory mucosal vaccine–induced protective immunity against M. tuberculosis.
Caring for a child with Cerebral Palsy: The experience of Zimbabwean mothers
Authors: Dambi Jermaine M. , Jelsma Jennifer , Mlambo Tecla
Published: August 2015

Background: The needs of caregivers of children with disability may not be recognized despite evidence to suggest that they experience increased strain because of their care-giving role. This strain may be exacerbated if they live in under-resourced areas. Objectives: We set out to establish the well-being of caregivers of children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) living in high-density areas of Harare, Zimbabwe. In addition, we wished to identify factors that might be predictive of caregivers’ well-being. Finally, we examined the psychometric properties of the Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) within the context of the study.Method: Caregivers of 46 children with CP were assessed twice, at baseline, and after three months, for perceived burden of care and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using CSI and EQ-5D respectively. The psychometric properties of the CSI were assessed post hoc. Results: The caregivers reported considerable caregiver burden with half of the caregivers reporting CSI scores in the ‘clinical distress’ range. Many of the caregivers experienced some form of pain, depression and expressed that they were overwhelmed by the care-giving role. No variable was found to be associated with clinical distress. The CSI demonstrated good overall internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.8), stability over time (Z = 0.87, p = 0.381) and was significantly and negatively correlated with the EQ-5D VAS (Spearman’s rho = −0.33, p = 0.027), demonstrating concurrent validity. Conclusion: Caregivers must be monitored routinely for their level of distress and there is an urgent need to provide them with support. The CSI is likely to be a valid measure of distress in this population.
Undergraduate nurses reflections on Whatsapp use in improving primary health care education
Authors: Willemse Juliana J.
Published: August 2015

Background: The global use of mobile devices with their connectivity capacity, and integrated with the affordances of social media networks, provides a resource-rich platform for innovative student-directed learning experiences.Objective: The objective of this study was to review the experiences of undergraduate nurses on the improvement of primary health care education at a School of Nursing at a University in the Western Cape, South Africa, through the incorporation of a social media application, WhatsApp.Method: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive, and contextual design was used to explore and describe data collected from a purposive sample of 21 undergraduate nursing students. The study population was engaged in a WhatsApp discussion group to enhance their integration of theory and clinical practice of the health assessment competency of the Primary Health Care Module. Participants submitted electronic reflections on their experiences in the WhatsApp discussion group via email on completion of the study. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data collected was done according to Tesch’s (1990) steps of descriptive data analysis in order to identify the major themes in the study. The electronic reflections were analysed to explore their rich, reflective data.Results: Seven themes were identified that included: positive experiences using the WhatsApp group; the usefulness of WhatsApp for integrating theory and clinical practice; the availability of resources for test preparation; opportunity for clarification; anonymity; exclusion of students as a result of the lack of an appropriate device, and the application caused the battery of the device to run flat quickly.Conclusion: The results of the experiences of students in the WhatsApp discussion group could be used to inform the use of social media applications in teaching and learning, with the purpose of enhancing the integration of the theory and clinical practice.
Messiaanse vredestichters: Intertekstuele relaties tussen Zacharia 9–14 en het Evangelie van Matteüs
Authors: Weren Wim J.C.
Published: August 2015

Messianic peacemakers: Intertextual relationships between Zechariah 9-14 and the Gospel of Matthew. This article deals with images of war, violence and peace and with the role of messianic leaders in Deutero-Zechariah and the way in which texts from Zechariah 9–14 have been interpreted in the Gospel of Matthew. The first section describes the lines of meaning in Zechariah 9–14 on the basis of word fields related to violence and universal peace. The second section discusses Deutero-Zechariah’s own position in the development of messianic expectations in Old Testament texts. In the third section, the question is asked how the meaning of texts from Zechariah 9–14 about messianic leaders has been influenced by earlier prophetic texts, and how these texts in their turn have been transformed and updated in the Gospel of Matthew, which contains explicit quotations from Deutero-Zechariah in 21:5; 26:15; 26:31 and 27:9–10. The fourth section summarises some interesting semantic shifts appearing in Matthew’s gospel compared to Deutero-Zechariah. Moreover, some critical comments are presented against the idea defended in some recent studies that there is a sharp tension between Jesus’s role in Matthew as the bringer of a peaceful ethical message, and his violent and vindictive role at the final judgement. At the end of this article, the burning question is raised whether Zechariah’s and Matthew’s messages, both of which are characterised by a certain degree of exclusivity, can play a constructive role in modern multi-religious discussions about common roads leading to global peace.
Fulfilment of Scripture and Jesus’ Teachings in Matthew
Authors: Culpepper R. Alan
Published: August 2015

One of the most intriguing aspects of the experience of reading the gospels, for both beginning students and those who have been at it for decades, is the growing awareness of how the gospels convey their message. Our attention is usually focused first on what the message is: the storyline, the plot, the climax or resolution, and its implications. As we continue to read and reread, we may find that we begin to grow interested in various features of the narrative, such as its organisation, collections of material (parables or miracle stories), repetitions, the ways characters are represented or the narrator’s comments. These are not incidental features of the gospel narrative. On the contrary, they are the elements with which it is constructed and that guide the reader’s experience of the narrative. In this article we will explore how Matthew leads its Jewish-Christian readers, sometime late in the 1st century and during theprocess of the separation of early believers from the synagogue, to accept Jesus’ teachings as a new teaching on righteousness and functionally at least a new Torah. Specifically, we will analyse the role of repetition and redundancy in Matthew’s narrative rhetoric in relation to this theme.Vervulling van die Skrif en Jesus se onderrig in Matteus. Een van die boeiendste aspekte wat beginnerstudente sowel as ervare lesers met die bestudering van die evangelies ondervind, is die groeiende bewustheid van hoe die boodskap oorgedra word. Normaalweg word die aandag eerstens op die boodskap gevestig: die storielyn, die verloop, die hoogtepunt en die ontknoping, en die implikasies daarvan. Met die lees en herlees daarvan word ’n groeiende belangstelling ondervind in die onderskeie kenmerke van die narratief soos die samestelling daarvan, die tipe gegewens (gelykenisse of wonderwerke), herhalings, die manier hoe die karakters voorgestel word en die verteller se kommentaar. Hierdie is nie toevallige kenmerke van die evangelie-narratief nie. Inteendeel, dit is die elemente waaruit dit saamgestel is en wat die leser se ervaring van die narratief begelei. In hierdie artikel word die wyse ondersoek waarop Matteus, in die eerste eeu na Christus en gedurende die skeidingsproses van die vroeë gelowiges uit die sinagoge, die Joodse-Christenlesers lei om Jesus se onderrig as ’n nuwe lering oor regverdigheid en, wat meer is, ’n nuwe Torah te aanvaar. ’n Spesifieke analise word gemaak oor die rol van herhaling en toutologie in Matteus se narratiewe retoriek wat verband hou met hierdie tema.
Is DOG1 really useful in the diagnosis of salivary gland acinic cell carcinoma? - A DOG1 (clone K9) analysis in fine needle aspiration cell blocks and the review of the literature
Authors: Canberk Sule , Onenerk Mine , Sayman Elif , Goret Ceren Canbey , Erkan Murat , Atasoy Tugba , Kilicoglu Gamze Z.
Published: August 2015

Introduction:

DOG1 is a transmembrane protein originally “discovered on gastrointestinal stromal tumors,” works as a calcium-activated chloride channel protein. There is a limited number of studies on the potential usage of this antibody in the diagnosis of salivary gland tumors on routine practice in cell blocks. The aim of this study was to search for the usefulness of K9 clone in oncocytic type tumors and review of the literature.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty-nine fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytologic materials of predominantly oncocytic morphology salivary gland tumors; acinic cell carcinoma (AciCC) (n= 8), adenoid cystic carcinoma (n= 2), pleomorphic adenoma (PA) (n= 22), Warthin tumor (WT) (n= 20), myoepithelioma (ME) (n= 5), benign oncocytoma (BeO) (n= 3), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) (n= 7), mammary analog salivary gland carcinoma (n= 2) were immunostained with DOG1 (clone K9) stain.

Results:

Of the 8 AciCCs, 7 were observed apical-luminal positive staining, demonstrating 1–3 + intensity, and involving 40–70% of the tumor cells. One MEC of 7 (14%), 1 ME of 5 (20%), and 4 PA of 22 (18%) showed weak (1+) cytoplasmic granular staining in 5–10% of the tumor cells. Pure oncocytic neoplasms (WT, BeO) showed no expression with DOG1-K9.

Conclusions:

FNA is a common tool in the diagnosis and management of salivary gland tumors. DOG1-K9 clone was very useful with a unique staining pattern of apical-luminal positivity in the differential diagnosis of AciCC from other oncocytic salivary gland tumors.
Outcome of revascularization in moyamoya disease: Evaluation of a new angiographic scoring system
Authors: Sahoo Siddhartha , Suri Ashish , Bansal Sumit , Devarajan S , Sharma Bhawani
Published: August 2015

Background: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic progressive cerebrovascular occlusive disease affecting commonly the anterior circle of Willis. Matushima grade inadequately reflects the angiographic changes postrevascularization procedure. Aims: To analyze the clinical and angiographic outcome of revascularization procedures (direct [ST-middle cerebral artery (MCA) anastomosis] and indirect [encephalo-duro-arterio-myo-synangiosis (EDAMS)]) in MMD and validate a new angiographic scoring system. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study included symptomatic patients of MMD who underwent revascularization; both indirect and combined methods between January 2002 and April 2012. Follow-up angiography was done after at least 3 months. We devised a novel scoring system the "angiographic outcome score" (AOS) including reformation of distal MCA and anterior cerebral artery, regression of basal moyamoya vessels, leptomeningeal collaterals and overall perfusion. AOS was applied to the angiograms independently by a neuroradiologist and a neurosurgeon that were blinded toward its preoperative or postoperative status. Results: Totally 33 patients underwent 36 EDAMS and 4 combined procedures (EDAMS + ST-MCA bypass). The mean follow-up was 20 months. None had recurrent transient ischemic attack or fresh infarct. Postoperative AOS was significantly higher than preoperative AOS. The Spearman rho showed positive correlation between Matushima grade and postoperative AOS. Significant regression of basal moyamoya vessels and increase in number of loci of transdural collaterals was seen. Conclusions: EDAMS is a simple yet effective method of revascularization in both pediatric as well as adult age groups. AOS is a simple, precise and easily reproducible scoring system, which reflects the favorable angiographic changes after revascularization.
The AOSpine thoracolumbar spine injury classification system: A reliability and agreement study
Authors: Azimi Parisa , Mohammadi Hassan , Azhari Shirzad , Alizadeh Pooyan , Montazeri Ali
Published: August 2015

Aim: Recently, AOSpine trauma knowledge forum proposed the AOSpine thoracolumbar injury classification (AOSTLIC) system and suggested that it was reliable. However, reliability data from additional institutions for the AOSTLIC system are not available. This study was to examine the reliability of the AOSTLIC system in patients with thoracolumbar (TL) fractures. Materials and Methods: Between August 2009 and June 2012, 56 patients with 74 levels traumatic TL spinal injuries were recruited. Two classifiers, consisting of two spine surgeons, assessed clinical and imaging data. Initially, one surgeon reviewed the data in order to classify and calculate injury severity score according to the AOSTSIC system. This process was repeated on a 5-week interval by another surgeon. Then we analyzed data for intra-observer and inter-observer reliability using the kappa statistic (k). Finally, validity was assessed using the known-groups comparison. Results: The mean age of patients was 59.5 ± 11.5 years. The k values for the AOSTSIC system for intra-observer and inter-observer reliability ranged from 0.83 to 0.89, indicating nearly perfect agreement agreements. Known-groups analysis showed satisfactory results. The AOSTSIC system discriminated well between sub-groups of patients who differed in Oswestry disability index. Conclusion: The findings showed that the morphologic classification in AOSTSIC system appears to be reliable and reproducible classification.
The long-term efficacy of pedicular screw fixation at patients suffering from thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficit
Authors: Javadi Seyed , Naderi Fereshteh
Published: August 2015

Objectives: Treatment of choice at stable burst fracture is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study is assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) regarding short form-36 (SF-36) and its correlation with kyphosis in patients affected by thoracolumbar burst fracture without neurological deficit undergoing posterior short segment pedicular screw fixation. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficits, meeting our criteria were enrolled in this study. The patients underwent short segment pedicular screw fixation. After 2 years of follow-up, the outcome assessment was performed with evaluating HRQOL; SF-36. The mean ± standard deviation was measured at each eight category of SF-36 and compared with normative values of Iran. The correlation of Cobb angle and body pain was analyzed by linear regression. Results: The study detected reduced quality of life (QOL), with total mean of 49.7 ± 14 and physical function grade of 61.2 ± 22 which was significantly lower than Iran normative reported as 85.9 ± 19. Fifty percent still suffered from moderate to severe pain and Cobb angle had no statistically significant correlation with body pain. Conclusions: It seems that surgical treatment could not improve pain related disability of patients with stable thoracolumbar burst fracture at long term follow up.