bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining Medical Necessity under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
Authors: Skinner Daniel
Published: May 2013

While the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010 promises to expand care to millions of Americans, how the bill will determine the meaning of medical necessity—the concept that continues to serve as the key means for regulating the utilization of health care services—remains an open question. Instead of detailing what is and is not considered medically necessary, the ACA charges the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services with overseeing the processes by which these critical determinations will be made. This article considers a series of “meta‐questions” regarding the place of medical necessity determinations within the context of the ACA. It does so by examining the policy challenges presented by a bill that attempts to balance government regulation, physician autonomy, and the various market forces driving managed care. The result is an understanding of the inherently political nature of medical necessity determinations under the ACA.
Calcitonin Promotes Mouse Pre‐implantation Development: Involvement of Calcium Mobilization and P38 Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase Activation
Authors: Wang F‐w , Zhang Y‐m , Wang Z , Liu S‐m , Wang L‐y , Zhang X‐l , Jia D‐y , Hao A‐j , Wu Y‐l
Published: May 2013

Contents

The study was designed to examine the effects of calcitonin (CT) on the development of murine pre‐implantation embryos and possible molecular mechanisms involved in the process. In the present study, the 2‐cell embryos were treated with different concentration of CT in vitro for the indicated time and the results demonstrated that CT promoted the development of the pre‐implantation embryos in a dosage‐dependent manner by increasing the intracellular Ca2+ level. Furthermore, the present study showed that CT significantly increased the expression of phospho‐P38MAPK (Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase) of the pre‐implantation embryos by Western blots and pre‐treatment of specific P38MAPK inhibitor significantly reduced the promotion effects of CT on the embryonic development in vitro culture. Moreover, the results of intrauterine horn injection showed that the average number of embryos implanted in CT‐antibody or specific P38 MAPK inhibitor‐treated uterus was significantly lower than that of the corresponding control, respectively. And the observation of tissue specimen suggested that some embryos were degenerated in CT‐antibody or specific P38 MAPK inhibitor‐treated uterus, and adipose vacuoles were present in the decidual cells. In conclusion, CT promoted the development of pre‐implantation embryos and the intracellular Ca2+‐dependent P38MAPK signal molecule was involved in the process.
Global Maize Trade and Food Security: Implications from a Social Network Model
Authors: Wu Felicia , Guclu Hasan
Published: May 2013

In this study, we developed a social network model of the global trade of maize: one of the most important food, feed, and industrial crops worldwide, and critical to food security. We used this model to analyze patterns of maize trade among nations, and to determine where vulnerabilities in food security might arise if maize availability was decreased due to factors such as diversion to nonfood uses, climatic factors, or plant diseases. Using data on imports and exports from the U.N. Commodity Trade Statistics Database for each year from 2000 to 2009 inclusive, we summarized statistics on volumes of maize trade between pairs of nations for 217 nations. There is evidence of market segregation among clusters of nations; with three prominent clusters representing Europe, Brazil and Argentina, and the United States. The United States is by far the largest exporter of maize worldwide, whereas Japan and the Republic of Korea are the largest maize importers. In particular, the star‐shaped cluster of the network that represents U.S. maize trade to other nations indicates the potential for food security risks because of the lack of trade these other nations conduct with other maize exporters. If a scenario arose in which U.S. maize could not be exported in as large quantities, maize supplies in many nations could be jeopardized. We discuss this in the context of recent maize ethanol production and its attendant impacts on food prices elsewhere worldwide.
Association of IL‐1β +3954 C/T and IL‐10‐1082 G/A Cytokine Gene Polymorphisms with Susceptibility to Tuberculosis
Authors: Meenakshi P. , Ramya S. , Shruthi T. , Lavanya J. , Mohammed H. H. , Mohammed S. A. , Vijayalakshmi V. , Sumanlatha G.
Published: May 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) constitutes the major cause of death due to infectious diseases. Cytokines play a major role in defence against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Polymorphisms in the genes encoding various cytokines have been associated with tuberculosis susceptibility. Household contacts (HHC) are at increased risk of developing the disease. In this study, we examined the association of IL‐1β and IL‐10 cytokine gene polymorphisms with risk of developing tuberculosis in TB patients, their HHC and healthy controls (HC) using JavaStat and SPSS. Multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) analyses were performed to explore the potential gene–gene interactions. The genotype and allele frequencies of IL‐1β +3954C/T polymorphism did not vary significantly between TB patients and HC. GG (P < 0.005, OR = 0.219 and 95% CI = 0.059–0.735) and GA (P < 0.0001, OR = 2.938 and 95% CI = 1.526–5.696) genotypes of IL‐10‐1082 G/A polymorphism were found to be significantly associated with patients versus HC. HHC with CC (P < 0.03, OR = 1.833 and 95% CI = 1.1–3.35) genotype in IL‐1β and GA (P < 0.0001, OR = 4.612 and 95% CI = 2.225–9.702) genotype in IL‐10 were at increased risk of developing tuberculosis. MDR tests revealed high‐risk genotypes in IL‐1β and IL‐10 based on the association model. Our results demonstrate that the polymorphisms of IL‐1β and IL‐10 genes may be valuable markers to predict the risk for the development of TB in household contacts.
The Price of Opportunity: Race, Student Loan Debt, and College Achievement
Authors: Jackson Brandon A. , Reynolds John R.
Published: May 2013

This paper examines racial differences in student loan debt and concurrently assesses the potential payoffs and countervailing risks inherent in reliance on loans in a cohort of black and white first‐year college students. Using the 1996–2001 Beginning Postsecondary Student study we find that the use of loans results in greater enrollment persistence and higher odds of college completion, especially for black students. However, black students acquire larger amounts of student loan debt and face a higher risk of default than white students. This is in part due to associated racial differences in family socioeconomic status and type of institution attended. We suggest these findings illuminate the dual‐sided nature of college loans that makes them an imperfect, but overall positive, tool for reducing educational inequality. On the one hand, student loans reduce educational inequality that otherwise results from disadvantaged students' struggles to pay for college and complete college in a timely fashion. At the same time, the degree to which loans reduce racial inequality is diminished by black students' higher loan amounts, the large number of black students who borrow but do not finish college, and the large racial difference in the odds of defaulting on a loan.
Combined zoledronic acid and meloxicam reduced bone loss and tumour growth in an orthotopic mouse model of bone‐invasive oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Martin C. K. , Dirksen W. P. , Carlton M. M. , Lanigan L. G. , Pillai S. P. , Werbeck J. L. , Simmons J. K. , Hildreth B. E. , London C. A. , Toribio R. E. , Rosol T. J.
Published: May 2013

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is common in cats and humans and invades oral bone. We hypothesized that the cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 inhibitor, meloxicam, with the bisphosphonate, zoledronic acid (ZOL), would inhibit tumour growth, osteolysis and invasion in feline OSCC xenografts in mice. Human and feline OSCC cell lines expressed COX‐1 and COX‐2 and the SCCF2 cells had increased COX‐2 mRNA expression with bone conditioned medium. Luciferase‐expressing feline SCCF2Luc cells were injected beneath the perimaxillary gingiva and mice were treated with 0.1 mg kg−1 ZOL twice weekly, 0.3 mg kg−1 meloxicam daily, combined ZOL and meloxicam, or vehicle. ZOL inhibited osteoclastic bone resorption at the tumour–bone interface. Meloxicam was more effective than ZOL at reducing xenograft growth but did not affect osteoclastic bone resorption. Although a synergistic effect of combined ZOL and meloxicam was not observed, combination therapy was well‐tolerated and may be useful in the clinical management of bone‐invasive feline OSCC.
Use of viscoelastic coagulation testing to monitor low molecular weight heparin administration to healthy horses
Authors: Tennent‐Brown Brett S. , Epstein Kira L. , Whelchel Dorothy D. , Giguère Steeve
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the utility of thromboelastography (TEG) and Sonoclot analyses to monitor the effects of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) administration to healthy horses.

Design

Randomized crossover study.

Setting

Large animal veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Six adult mixed breed healthy mares.

Interventions

LMWH (dalteparin) was administered (50 U/kg subcutaneously) either every 12 or 24 h for 3 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected before LMWH administration and then at selected time points for analysis. Thromboelastography derived R‐time (R), K‐time (K), angle (ANG), and maximum amplitude (MA), and Sonoclot activated clot time (ACT), clot rate (CR), and platelet function (PF) were measured in whole blood 30 min after sample collection. Change (Δ) and percentage change (%Δ) from baseline of each TEG and Sonoclot variable were subsequently calculated. Anti‐factor Xa activity and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) were assayed in harvested plasma. The association between anti‐factor Xa activity and TEG and Sonoclot (measured and calculated) variables was assessed by calculating correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis. The ability of measured and calculated TEG and Sonoclot variables to predict when anti‐factor Xa activity fell below suggested thromboprophylactic levels was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Measurements and Main Results

The correlation between aPTT and anti‐factor Xa activity was weak (r= 0.343). Changes in TEG and Sonoclot variables following LMWH administration were consistent with hypocoagulation. All measured and calculated TEG variables were significantly correlated with anti‐factor Xa activity. Sonoclot ACT, ΔACT, CR, ΔCR, and %ΔCR were also significantly correlated with anti‐factor Xa activity. TEG ΔR and %ΔR best predicted anti‐factor Xa activity below the suggested thromboprophylactic level.

Conclusions

Although correlations were modest, serial measurement of TEG variables may be used to monitor LMWH therapy in horses; however, further research is required in sick horses.
The use of high‐dose insulin therapy and intravenous lipid emulsion to treat severe, refractory diltiazem toxicosis in a dog
Authors: Maton Barbara L. , Simmonds Erin E. , Lee Justine A. , Alwood Amy J.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To describe the novel use of high‐dose insulin (HDI) therapy and intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) to treat refractory, severe diltiazem toxicosis in a dog.

Case Summary

A 4‐year‐old Pomeranian was presented for treatment 2.5 hours following ingestion of a diltiazem extended‐release capsule. Toxic ingestion was calculated at a maximum exposure of 79 mg/kg, with a reported canine LD50 of 50 mg/kg. Clinical signs of progressive hypotension and severe bradycardia with atrial standstill were observed, which persisted despite treatment with atropine, calcium, glucagon, and dopamine. The novel use of HDI and ILE as part of therapy for diltiazem toxicosis resulted in clinical resolution of life‐threatening signs. Within 1 hour of initiating HDI therapy, the clinical signs improved, and with continued treatment, the patient remained normotensive and survived to discharge.

New or Unique Information Provided

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported clinical case describing the use of both HDI and ILE therapy in the treatment of severe refractory diltiazem toxicosis in veterinary medicine. No significant adverse effects were observed from the treatment. In veterinary patients with severe refractory calcium channel blocker toxicosis, the use of HDI and ILE should be considered for life‐threatening clinical signs.
Do t‐tubules play a role in arrhythmogenesis in cardiac ventricular myocytes?
Authors: Orchard C. H. , Bryant S. M. , James A. F.
Published: May 2013

Abstract  The transverse (t‐) tubules of mammalian ventricular myocytes are invaginations of the surface membrane. The function of many of the key proteins involved in excitation–contraction coupling is located predominantly at the t‐tubules, which thus form a Ca2+‐handling micro‐environment that is central to the normal rapid activation and relaxation of the ventricular myocyte. Although cellular arrhythmogenesis shares many ion flux pathways with normal excitation–contraction coupling, the role of the t‐tubules in such arrhythmogenesis has not previously been considered. In this brief review we consider how the location and co‐location of proteins at the t‐tubules may contribute to the generation of arrhythmogenic delayed and early afterdepolarisations, and how the loss of t‐tubules that occurs during heart failure may alter the generation of such arrhythmias, as well as contributing to other types of arrhythmia as a result of changes of electrical heterogeneity within the whole heart.
Improved electrical properties and crystalline quality of II–VI heterostructures for quantum cascade lasers
Authors: Axtmann Garcia Thor , Hong Songwoung , Tamargo Maria , de Jesus Joel , Deligiannakis Vasilios , Ravikumar Arvind , Gmachl Claire , Shen Aidong
Published: May 2013

The authors report on investigations of the doping, lattice mismatch, and interface quality for the molecular beam epitaxial growth of ZnCdSe/ZnCdMgSe/InP quantum cascade structures with improved electrical, structural, and spectral properties. An improved doping strategy, the control of the lattice mismatch to less than 0.25%, and the incorporation of growth interruptions have led to quantum cascade structures with good I–V characteristics and electroluminescence emission up to room temperature, with an emission energy of 230 meV (5.4 μm) and a full-width at half maximum of 41 meV at 80 K, the best device properties reported so far for this material system. It is expected that the addition of waveguide layers in the structure will lead to the observation of lasing.
Tuning the electronic states of individual Co acceptors in GaAs
Authors: Benjamin Anne L. , Lee Donghun , Gupta Jay A.
Published: May 2013

Scanning tunneling microscope studies of individual impurities in semiconductors explore challenges associated with future nanoscale electronics and can provide insight into how new materials properties such as ferromagnetic ordering arise from impurity interactions. Atomic manipulation and tunneling spectroscopy were employed to characterize and control the acceptor states of Co atoms substituted for Ga in the GaAs(110) surface. Three states were observed whose appearance in tunneling spectra was sensitive to the tip position within the acceptor complex. The energy of these states did not follow bending of the host bands due to the tip-induced electric field, but did respond to the Coulomb potential of nearby charged defects, such as As vacancies. By applying voltage pulses with the scanning tunneling microscope tip, the vacancies could be positioned on the surface, thus enabling tunable control over the Co acceptor states.
Mechanical and electrical properties of plasma and thermal atomic layer deposited Al2O3 films on GaAs and Si
Authors: Sah Ram Ekwal , Driad Rachid , Bernhardt Frank , Kirste Lutz , Leancu Crenguta-Columbina , Czap Heiko , Benkhelifa Fouad , Mikulla Michael , Ambacher Oliver
Published: May 2013

Mechanical and electrical properties of Al2O3 films are compared for plasma-assisted atomic layer deposition (ALD) and thermal ALD on two substrates, GaAs and Si, of different thermal expansion coefficient. Films with stable chemical structure and mechanical residual stress could be produced by both techniques without inducing any damage to sensitive multiquantum-well structures. However, the as-deposited residual stress in the plasma ALD Al2O3 films is lower and decreases, while that in the thermal ALD films increases with the deposition temperature. Moreover, the stress hysteresis observed upon thermal cycles is much lower for the plasma ALD films compared to that for the thermal ALD films. The biaxial elastic modulus (BEM or stiffness parameter) increases with the deposition temperature for both ALD films, being higher for the plasma ALD than that for the thermal ALD at a given temperature. The higher BEM is reflected in better electrical properties of the films. Thus, the leakage current of metal–oxide–semiconductor capacitors with the plasma ALD-Al2O3 film is three orders of magnitude lower and the breakdown voltage 20% higher than that of the capacitors with the thermal ALD film.
Biosensors and Molecular Technologies for Cancer Diagnostics
Authors: Sandwall Peter
Published: May 2013

Biosensors and Molecular Technologies for Cancer Diagnostics. Keith E. Herold and Avarham Rasooly CRC, Taylor & Francis Group, Boca Raton, FL, 2012. Hardcover, 820 pp. Price: $169.95. ISBN: 978‐1‐4398‐4165‐5
Physics of Thermal Therapy: Fundamentals and Clinical Applications
Authors: Stauffer Paul R.
Published: May 2013

Physics of Thermal Therapy: Fundamentals and Clinical Applications. E. G. Moros and William R. Hendee CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, Boca Raton, FL, 2013. Hardback 375 pp. Price: $149.95. ISBN: 978‐1‐4398‐4890‐6.
Targeted Imaging of Esophageal Neoplasia with a Fluorescently Labeled Peptide: First-in-Human Results
Authors: Sturm Matthew B. , Joshi Bishnu P. , Lu Shaoying , Piraka Cyrus , Khondee Supang , Elmunzer Badih Joseph , Kwon Richard S. , Beer David G. , Appelman Henry D. , Turgeon Danielle Kim , Wang Thomas D.
Published: May 2013

A fluorescently labeled peptide enables first-in-human targeted endoscopic imaging of esophageal neoplasia.
Demystifying the “Magical Cure” for Diabetes
Authors: Jastreboff Ania M.
Published: May 2013

Rapid improvements in glucose tolerance within three weeks of Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass surgery may be largely due to caloric restriction.
Nano Decoy Tricks Venom
Authors: Seker Erkin
Published: May 2013

Tiny particles covered with red blood cell membranes absorb pore-forming toxins and prolong survival in animals.
A reexamination of Pleistocene tunnel valley distribution on the central Scotian Shelf
Authors: MacRae R.A. , Christians A.R.
Published: May 2013

Tunnel valleys are an erosional channel characterized by anastomosing, steep-sided channel systems formed by subglacial, confined meltwater flow. Our study uses two-dimensional (2D) industry reflection seismic on the Scotian Shelf near Sable Island to better constrain the geometry of tunnel valleys in the area. Here, U- to V-shaped buried channels north and west of Sable Island extensively branch, reconnect, and meander. They average 2–5 km wide and 150–700 m deep (below sea level) and have a dominantly north–south orientation. Immediately to the south and southwest of Sable Island, the channels become narrower (1–1.5 km), shallower (300–400 m maximum) and more widely spaced. Multiple tunnel valley generations may be present, but could not be separately mapped. There is a notable gap of 20–30 km between the ends of the detectable tunnel valleys and the shelf edge south of Sable Island. An exception is erosive features at the shelf edge at the head of Logan Canyon, but these channels are disconnected from the tunnel valley network further north and may not be tunnel valleys. The reason for the gap south of Sable Island is not clear; however, we do not believe it is due to data coverage or resolution issues. If the tunnel valleys genuinely end south of Sable Island, then the gap between them and the shelf edge means that between The Gully and Logan Canyon these subglacial meltwater channels did not empty directly at the shelf edge. This implies direct meltwater and sediment delivery by tunnel valleys to the Scotian Slope during the Pleistocene may have been limited in this area.
Differentiation of triticale cultivars through FISH karyotyping of their rye chromosomes
Authors: Fradkin Maia , Ferrari María Rosa , Espert Shirley Mary , Ferreira Víctor , Grassi Ezequiel , Greizerstein Eduardo José , Poggio Lidia
Published: May 2013

The aim of this work was to cytogenetically characterize triticale cultivars through fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of their rye chromosomes. In the present work, we studied six cultivars of triticale (‘Cayú-UNRC’, ‘Cumé-UNRC’, ‘Genú-UNRC’, ‘Ñinca-UNRC’, ‘Quiñé-UNRC’, and ‘Tizné-UNRC’), released by the Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto (UNRC), Córdoba, Argentina. The cultivars were obtained from the International Center for the Improvement of Maize and Wheat (CIMMYT) and improved for fresh forage, haymaking, and feed grain at UNRC. The distribution and organization of highly repetitive DNA sequences of Secale cereale (pSc74, pSc200, pSc250, and pSc119.2) using FISH analyses revealed a specific localization of the signals for several rye chromosomes, which allowed us to distinguish the cultivars. Cluster analysis showed a great cytogenetic similarity among the rye cultivars used to originate these hybrids. The knowledge of the variability among triticale cultivars is necessary to propose future crosses in breeding programs. This study will also be valuable to identify commercial seeds and to analyze the possible association between agronomic characters and the presence of certain rye chromosomes or specific regions in these chromosomes.
NONUNIVERSAL GAUGINO MASSES AND NATURAL SUPERSYMMETRY
Authors: GOGOLADZE ILIA , NASIR FARIHA , SHAFI QAISAR
Published: May 2013

We demonstrate that natural supersymmetry is readily realized in the framework of SU(4)c×SU(2)L×SU(2)Rwith nonuniversal gaugino masses. Focusing on ameliorating the little hierarchy problem, we explore the parameter space of this model which yields small fine-tuning measuring parameters (natural supersymmetry) at the electroweak scale (ΔEW) as well as at high scale (ΔHS). It is possible to have both ΔEWand ΔHSless than 100 in these models, (2% or better fine-tuning), while keeping the light CP-even (Standard Model-like) Higgs mass in the 123–127 GeV range. The light stop quark mass lies in the range [Formula: see text], and the range for the light stau lepton mass is [Formula: see text]. The first two family squarks are in the mass range [Formula: see text], and for the gluino we find [Formula: see text]. We do not find any solution with natural supersymmetry which yields significant enhancement for Higgs production and decay in the diphoton channel.
RELIABILITY-CENTERED MAINTENANCE FOR SPRAY JETS OF COAL SHEARER MACHINE
Authors: HOSEINIE S. H. , AHMADI A. , GHODRATI B. , KUMAR U.
Published: May 2013

Spray jets constitute one of the most important parts of each type of rock cutting machine, especially the drum shearer. This system cools the cutting picks and controls the dust emission. The blockage of spray jets causes the coal shearer machine to stop automatically. Therefore, the reliable performance of this system assists the achievement of a smooth coal cutting operation. Field's data shows that the maintenance of this system is time-consuming and causes major downtimes in the production process. Therefore, it is essential to find an optimum preventive maintenance task and intervals, to reduce the downtime and minimize the associated costs of the machine. The aim of this paper is to identify an applicable and effective maintenance task, with its associated interval, for management of the failure modes of the spray jets of coal shearers. A case study has been conducted on spray jets of double-drum shearer machine in Tabas Coal Mine in Iran. In the study, the RCM approach is used to select an applicable and effective maintenance task. The failure data were analyzed using a parametric approach to evaluate the reliability of the spray jets, and to estimate the reliability parameters. A reliability-based cost modeling has been implemented to identify the optimum maintenance interval and frequencies of restoration for the spray jets. In the study, a cost rate function (CRF) has been introduced in which an as-good-as-new (AGAN) effectiveness for restoration actions is considered. The CRF also considers restoration and repair times, and takes into account the costs associated with repair and restoration, and the opportunity cost of the equipment's lost production due to maintenance downtime, to arrive at the most cost-effective maintenance intervals. The results of the analysis have shown that the minimum cost per unit of time, $46.5/h, will be achieved within a range of intervals i.e., T = 210 h to T = 260 h .
BUCKLING ANALYSIS OF FUNCTIONALLY GRADED PLATES UNDER MECHANICAL LOADING USING HIGHER ORDER FUNCTIONALLY GRADED STRIP
Authors: SHERAFAT M. H. , OVESY H. R. , GHANNADPOUR S. A. M.
Published: May 2013

This paper is concerned with buckling analyses of rectangular functionally graded plates (FGPs) under uniaxial compression, biaxial compression and combined compression and tension loads. It is assumed that the plate is a mixture of metal and ceramic that its properties changes as afunction according to the simple power law distribution through the plate thickness. The fundamental eigen-buckling equations for rectangular plates of functionally graded material (FGM) are obtained by discretizing the plate into some finite strips, which are developed on the basis of the higher order plate theory (HOPT). The solution is obtained by the minimization of the total potential energy. Numerical results fora variety of FGPs are given, and compared with the available results, wherever possible. The effects of thickness ratio, variation of the volume fraction of the ceramic phase through the thickness, aspect ratio, boundary conditions and also load distribution on the buckling load capacity of FGM plates are determined and discussed. It is found that the buckling behavior of FGM plates is particularly influenced by application of HOPT, especially when the plates are thick.
HEMOLYSIS ANALYSIS OF AXIAL BLOOD PUMPS WITH VARIOUS STRUCTURE IMPELLERS
Authors: CHEN ZENGSHENG , YAO ZHAOHUI , ZHU LAILAI , ZHANG XIWEN
Published: May 2013

Low hemolysis is an important factor for axial blood pumps that has been used in patients with heart failure. The structure of impellers plays a key role in the hemolytic properties of axial blood pumps. Axial blood pumps with various structure impellers exhibit different hemolytic characteristic. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the type of impellers structures in axial blood pumps that contain the best low hemolytic properties. Also, it is expensive and time-consuming to validate the axial blood pump's hemolytic property by in vivo experiments. Therefore, in the present study, the numerical method was applied to analyze the hemolytic property in a blood pump. Specifically, the hemolysis of the pump was calculated by using a forward Euler approach based on the changes in shear stress and related exposure times along the particle trace lines. The different vane structures and rotational speed that affect hemolysis were analyzed and compared. The results showed that long–short alternant vanes exhibited the best hemolytic property which could be utilized in the optimization design of axial blood pumps.
ON (α, β, γ)-DERIVATIONS OF LIE SUPERALGEBRAS
Authors: ZHENG KELI , ZHANG YONGZHENG
Published: May 2013

This paper is primarily concerned with (α, β, γ)-derivations of finite-dimensional Lie superalgebras over the field of complex numbers. Some properties of (α, β, γ)-derivations of the Lie superalgebras are obtained. In particular, two examples for (α, β, γ)-derivations of low-dimensional non-simple Lie superalgebras are presented and the super-spaces of (α, β, γ)-derivations for simple Lie superalgebras are determined. Using certain complex parameters we generalize the concept of cohomology cocycles of Lie superalgebras. A special case for the generalization of 1-cocycles with respect to the adjoint representation is exactly (α, β, γ)-derivations. Furthermore, two-dimensional twisted cocycles of the adjoint representation are investigated in detail.
BRACKETS
Authors: GRABOWSKI JANUSZ
Published: May 2013

We review origins and main properties of the most important bracket operations appearing canonically in differential geometry and mathematical physics in the classical, as well as in the supergeometric setting. The review is supplemented by some new concepts and examples.
GAUGE FIXING AND QUANTUM GROUP SYMMETRIES IN (2+1)-GRAVITY
Authors: MEUSBURGER CATHERINE , SCHÖNFELD TORSTEN
Published: May 2013

We summarize the results obtained by applying Dirac's gauge fixing formalism to the combinatorial description of the Chern–Simons formulation of (2+1)-gravity and their implications for the symmetries of the quantum theory. While the combinatorial description of the phase space exhibits standard Poisson–Lie symmetries, every gauge fixing condition based on two point particles yields a Poisson structure determined by a dynamical classical r-matrix. By considering transformations between different gauge fixing conditions, it is possible to classify all gauge fixed Poisson structures in terms of two standard solutions of the dynamical classical Yang–Baxter equation. We discuss the conclusions that can be drawn from this about the symmetries of (2+1)-dimensional quantum gravity.
EFFECT OF THE STRUCTURE OF ISOMERS OF MERCAPTOVALERIC ACID ON OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF CdTe QUANTUM DOTS
Authors: MA KAI-GUO , BAI JIN-YI , FANG TAN , GUO HAI-QING
Published: May 2013

4-Mercaptovaleric acid (4MVA) and 3-mercaptovaleric acid (3MVA), two branched isomers of 5-mercaptovaleric acid (MVA), were designed and synthesized. They were used as capping agents in the aqueous synthesis of CdTe quantum dots (QDs) by a modified hydrothermal method with sodium tellurite as Te source. Compared with MVA- CdTe , either 4MVA-QDs or 3MVA-QDs exhibited higher fluorescent quantum yield (QY) and sharper absorption peak, which confirmed the superiority of using branched mercapto acids in the aqueous synthesis of QDs for improved optical properties. The fluorescence of QDs capped with 4MVA was higher than that of QDs capped with 4-mercaptobutyric acid (MBA) but lower than that of QDs capped with 3-mercaptobutyric acid (3MBA), which further confirmed the advantage of designing methyl side group rather than methylene group in the main chain for desired optical properties. However, the lower fluorescence, less sharp absorption peak and faster growth rate of 3MVA-QDs than that of 3MBA-QDs indicated adverse effect of side group on the aqueous synthesis of QDs if the size of side group is very bulky. Our results are helpful for selecting and designing appropriate capping agents for QDs with excellent properties.
Dorsally Comminuted Fractures of the Distal End of the Radius: Osteosynthesis with Volar Fixed Angle Locking Plates
Authors: Gogna Paritosh , Selhi Harpal Singh , Singla Rohit , Devgan Ashish , Magu Narender Kumar , Mahindra Pankaj , Yamin Mohammad
Published: May 2013

Background. Dorsally comminuted distal radius fractures are unstable fractures and represent a treatment challenge. The objective of this study was to evaluate the functional and radiological outcome of dorsally comminuted fractures of the distal radius fixed with a volar locking plate. Patients and Methods. Thirty-three consecutive patients with dorsally comminuted fractures of the distal end of the radius were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with AO 2.4 mm (n=19)/3.5 mm (n=14) volar locking distal radius plate (Synthes, Switzerland, marketed by Synthes India Pvt. Ltd.). There were 7 type A3, 8 type C2, and 18 type C3 fractures. The patients were followed up at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Subjective assessment was done as per Disabilities Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Functional evaluation was done by measuring grip strength and range of motion around the wrist; the radiological determinants were radial angle, radial length, volar angle, and ulnar variance. The final assessment was done as per Demerit point system of Saito. Results. There were 23 males and 10 females with an average age of 44.12 ± 18.63 years (18–61 years). Clinicoradiological consolidation of the fracture was observed in all cases at a mean of 9.6 weeks (range 7–12 weeks). The average final extension was 58.15° ± 7.83°, flexion was 54.62° ± 11.23°, supination was 84.23° ± 6.02°, and pronation was 80.92° ± 5.54°. Demerit point system of Saito yielded excellent results in 79% (n=26), good in 18% (n=6), and fair in 3% (n=1) patients. Three patients had loss of reduction but none of the patients had tendon irritation or ruptures, implant failure, or nonunion at the end of an one-year followup. Conclusion. Volar locking plate fixation for dorsally comminuted distal radius fractures results in good to excellent functional outcomes despite a high incidence of loss of reduction and fracture collapse.
Postcoital Haemoptysis: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Kesieme Emeka B. , Okonkwo Browne C. , Okokhere Peter O. , Prisadov Georgi , Aigbe Eghosa , Affusim Christopher
Published: May 2013

Haemoptysis is rarely reported following coitus, and cardiac decompensation has been mostly implicated in the aetiology. We present a 53-year-old Nigerian, known hypertensive diabetic woman with background ischaemic heart disease who presented with postcoital haemoptysis of one-year duration. Echocardiography revealed combined ischaemic and mitral valvular heart disease, probably of rheumatic aetiology. There has been no previous report in an African population. This case illustrates the need to rule out coitus as a rare but potential cause of haemoptysis in middle aged patients with underlying cardiac pathologies and the need for an extensive cardiac workup in a population with predominantly pulmonary causes of haemoptysis.
Reverse Engineering Sparse Gene Regulatory Networks Using Cubature Kalman Filter and Compressed Sensing
Authors: Noor Amina , Serpedin Erchin , Nounou Mohamed , Nounou Hazem
Published: May 2013

This paper proposes a novel algorithm for inferring gene regulatory networks which makes use of cubature Kalman filter (CKF) and Kalman filter (KF) techniques in conjunction with compressed sensing methods. The gene network is described using a state-space model. A nonlinear model for the evolution of gene expression is considered, while the gene expression data is assumed to follow a linear Gaussian model. The hidden states are estimated using CKF. The system parameters are modeled as a Gauss-Markov process and are estimated using compressed sensing-based KF. These parameters provide insight into the regulatory relations among the genes. The Cramér-Rao lower bound of the parameter estimates is calculated for the system model and used as a benchmark to assess the estimation accuracy. The proposed algorithm is evaluated rigorously using synthetic data in different scenarios which include different number of genes and varying number of sample points. In addition, the algorithm is tested on the DREAM4 in silico data sets as well as the in vivo data sets from IRMA network. The proposed algorithm shows superior performance in terms of accuracy, robustness, and scalability.
Pretreated Landfill Gas Conversion Process via a Catalytic Membrane Reactor for Renewable Combined Fuel Cell-Power Generation
Authors: Ziaka Zoe , Vasileiadis Savvas
Published: May 2013

A new landfill gas-based reforming catalytic processing system for the conversion of gaseous hydrocarbons, such as incoming methane to hydrogen and carbon oxide mixtures, is described and analyzed. The exit synthesis gas (syn-gas) is fed to power effectively high-temperature fuel cells such as SOFC types for combined efficient electricity generation. The current research work is also referred on the description and design aspects of permreactors (permeable reformers) carrying the same type of landfill gas-reforming reactions. Membrane reactors is a new technology that can be applied efficiently in such systems. Membrane reactors seem to perform better than the nonmembrane traditional reactors. The aim of this research includes turnkey system and process development for the landfill-based power generation and fuel cell industries. Also, a discussion of the efficient utilization of landfill and waste type resources for combined green-type/renewable power generation with increased processing capacity and efficiency via fuel cell systems is taking place. Moreover, pollution reduction is an additional design consideration in the current catalytic processors fuel cell cycles.
Blockade of Airway Inflammation by Kaempferol via Disturbing Tyk-STAT Signaling in Airway Epithelial Cells and in Asthmatic Mice
Authors: Gong Ju-Hyun , Shin Daekeun , Han Seon-Young , Park Sin-Hye , Kang Min-Kyung , Kim Jung-Lye , Kang Young-Hee
Published: May 2013

Asthma is characterized by bronchial inflammation causing increased airway hyperresponsiveness and eosinophilia. The interaction between airway epithelium and inflammatory mediators plays a key role in the asthmatic pathogenesis. Thein vitrostudy elucidated inhibitory effects of kaempferol, a flavonoid found in apples and many berries, on inflammation in human airway epithelial BEAS-2B cells. Nontoxic kaempferol at ≤20 μM suppressed the LPS-induced IL-8 production through the TLR4 activation, inhibiting eotaxin-1 induction. Thein vivostudy explored the demoting effects of kaempferol on asthmatic inflammation in BALB/c mice sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA). Mouse macrophage inflammatory protein-2 production and CXCR2 expression were upregulated in OVA-challenged mice, which was attenuated by oral administration of ≥10 mg/kg kaempferol. Kaempferol allayed the airway tissue levels of eotaxin-1 and eotaxin receptor CCR3 enhanced by OVA challenge. This study further explored the blockade of Tyk-STAT signaling by kaempferol in both LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells and OVA-challenged mice. LPS activated Tyk2 responsible for eotaxin-1 induction, while kaempferol dose-dependently inhibited LPS- or IL-8-inflamed Tyk2 activation. Similar inhibition of Tyk2 activation by kaempferol was observed in OVA-induced mice. Additionally, LPS stimulated the activation of STAT1/3 signaling concomitant with downregulated expression of Tyk-inhibiting SOCS3. In contrast, kaempferol encumbered STAT1/3 signaling with restoration of SOCS3 expression. Consistently, oral administration of kaempferol blocked STAT3 transactivation elevated by OVA challenge. These results demonstrate that kaempferol alleviated airway inflammation through modulating Tyk2-STAT1/3 signaling responsive to IL-8 in endotoxin-exposed airway epithelium and in asthmatic mice. Therefore, kaempferol may be a therapeutic agent targeting asthmatic diseases.
Association between Endocrine Disrupting Phenols in Colostrums and Maternal and Infant Health
Authors: Yi B. , Kim C. , Park M. , Han Y. , Park J. Y. , Yang M.
Published: May 2013

Bisphenol A (BPA) and alkylphenols (APs) are well-known endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) which may threat the next generations' health. We performed biomonitoring of these phenols in colostrums to assess risk of the phenols in breast-fed neonates. Study subjects were the lactating mothers who delivered babies within 2 weeks (N=325; 30.67±3.45 years) and their neonates (N=326; embryonic period, 39.1±1.5 weeks). BPA, nonylphenol (NP), and octylphenol (OP) in colostrums were quantified with LC/MS/MS. Information for environmental exposure sources of the phenols was obtained by questionnaires. As results, median level of BPA in colostrums was 7.8 ng/mL, while most NP or OP was not detected. Regarding health risks of phenols, levels of total NP in colostrums were elevated among sick mothers with toxemia, thyroid disorders, gastritis, and so forth than health mothers (3.51±4.98 versus 2.04±3.71 ng/mL,P=0.02). Dairy products intake and detergents use were positively correlated with total BPA levels (Ps<0.05). In conclusion, we estimate most neonates who are exposed to BPA rather than NP or OP via colostrums and recommend continuous biomonitoring of the phenols to clarify their suspected health risk on neonates and pregnant or gestation mothers.
Weather Support for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Sailing Events
Authors: Ma Yan , Gao Rongzhen , Xue Yunchuan , Yang Yuqiang , Wang Xiaoyun , Liu Bin , Xu Xiaoliang , Liu Xuezhong , Hou Jianwei , Lin Hang
Published: May 2013

The Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Sailing Competitions (referred to as OPSC hereafter) were held at Qingdao during August 9–23 and September 7–13 2008, respectively. The Qingdao Meteorological Bureau was the official provider of weather support for the OPSC. Three-dimensional real-time information with high spatial-temporal resolution was obtained by the comprehensive observation system during the OPSC, which included weather radars, wind profile radars, buoys, automated weather stations, and other conventional observations. The refined forecasting system based on MM5, WRF, and statistical modules provided point-specific hourly wind forecasts for the five venues, and the severe weather monitoring and forecasting system was used in short-term forecasts and nowcasts for rainstorms, gales, and hailstones. Moreover, latest forecasting products, warnings, and weather information were communicated conveniently and timely through a synthetic, speedy, and digitalized network system to different customers. Daily weather information briefings, notice boards, websites, and community short messages were the main approaches for regatta organizers, athletes, and coaches to receive weather service products at 8:00 PM of each day and whenever new updates were available. During the period of OPSC, almost one hundred people were involved in the weather service with innovative service concept, and the weather support was found to be successful and helpful to the OPSC.
Numerical Simulation of a Lee Wave Case over Three-Dimensional Mountainous Terrain under Strong Wind Condition
Authors: Li Lei , Chan P. W. , Zhang Lijie , Hu Fei
Published: May 2013

This study of a lee wave event over three-dimensional (3D) mountainous terrain in Lantau Island, Hong Kong, using a simulation combining mesoscale model and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model has shown that (1) 3D steep mountainous terrain can trigger small scale lee waves under strong wind condition, and the horizontal extent of the wave structure is in a dimension of few kilometers and corresponds to the dimension of the horizontal cross-section of the mountain; (2) the life cycle of the lee wave is short, and the wave structures will continuously form roughly in the same location, then gradually move downstream, and dissipate over time; (3) the lee wave triggered by the mountainous terrain in this case can be categorized into “nonsymmetric vortex shedding” or “turbulent wake,” as defined before based on water tank experiments; (4) the magnitude of the wave is related to strength of wind shear. This study also shows that a simulation combining mesoscale model and CFD can capture complex wave structure in the boundary layer over realistic 3D steep terrain, and have a potential value for operational jobs on air traffic warning, wind energy utilization, and atmospheric environmental assessment.
Chinese Herbal Medicine (Zi Shen Qing) for Mild-to-Moderate Systematic Lupus Erythematosus: A Pilot Prospective, Single-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Zhong Linda L. D. , Bian Zhao Xiang , Gu Jun Hua , Zhou Xin , Tian Yu , Mao Jian Chun , Chen Xiang Jun
Published: May 2013

Objective. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness and safety of a Chinese herbal formula Zi Shen Qing (ZSQ) in the treatment of systematic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Chinese patients.Methods. A randomized controlled trial was conducted over 12 weeks in 84 Chinese patients who reported total scores of SLE Disease Activity Index-2000 (SLEDAI-2000) was from 5 to 14. The primary outcome was the changes of the SLEDAI-2000. The secondary outcomes included score changes of Chinese Medicine Syndromes (CMS), the changes of steroid dosage, the incidence of disease flare-up and biologic markers.Results. ZSQ significantly reduced SLEDAI-2000, the total scores of CMS in the treatment group compared with the controlled group (P<0.05). Superiority of ZSQ over controlled group was also observed with greater improvement in the withdrawal dosage of corticosteroids and the incidence of disease flare-up (P<0.05). There were no serious adverse events, and safety indices of whole blood counts, renal and liver functions were normal, both before and after the treatment.Conclusion. ZSQ is safe and effective for decreasing SLE disease activity and withdrawal dosage of corticosteroids in the mild to moderate SLE patients with “Deficiency of Qi and Yin” Pattern.
From Graphite to Graphene: The Confinement of the Fermi Surface to the Line KH
Authors: Bross Helmut
Published: May 2013

The graphite structure is self-consistently calculated by use of the all electron Modified Augmented Plane Wave (MAPW) scheme with lattice constants considerably enlarged above the experimental value of graphite. Overall, the band structures of the series are found to be quite similar: the energy levels of the highly symmetric states K and H almost coincide, essentially fixing the Fermi level of the semimetallic solid. The dispersion along lines parallel to the atomic planes, already small in graphite at the experimental value of , continues to flatten with increasing value of . The structure with an interlayer distance enlarged by the factor 3 over the experimental value provides a good approximation of the behaviour of a monoatomic sheet. In this context, the unusual behaviour of graphene appears in a new light.
Prostaglandin D2in Inflammatory Arthritis and Its Relation with Synovial Fluid Dendritic Cells
Authors: Moghaddami Mahin , Ranieri Enzo , James Michael , Fletcher Janice , Cleland Leslie G.
Published: May 2013

Prostaglandin (PG)D2has been shown to be an active agent in the resolution of experimentally induced inflammation. This study was undertaken to determine the presence of PGD2in chronic joint effusions and to explore the potential contributions of dendritic cells (DC) and monocytes to the intra-articular synthesis of PGD2. Synovial fluid (SF) was obtained from patients with inflammatory arthritis and knee effusions. PGD2and PGE2were detected in SF by ultrahigh-performance tandem mass spectrometry. Cellular fractions in SF were separated by density-gradient centrifugation and flow cytometry. The expression of hematopoietic prostaglandin D-synthase (hPGDS) and PGE-synthase (PGES) mRNA was determined by RT-PCR. Both PGD2and PGE2were detected in blood and SF, with PGD2being more abundant than PGE2in SF. mRNA for hPGDS was more abundant in SF mDCs than SF monocytes (P<0.01) or PB monocytes (P<0.001). SF mDC expressed significantly more hPGDS than PGES. Expressions of PGD2and hPGDS were inversely associated with serum C-reactive protein (P<0.01) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P<0.01). The findings suggest that synovial DCs may be an important source of hPGDS and that systemic disease activity may be influenced by actions of PGD2in RA and other arthropathies.