bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Distinctive Cytoplasmic Tail Contributes to Low Surface Expression and Intracellular Retention of the Patr-AL MHC Class I Molecule
Authors: Goyos Ana , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Horowitz Amir , Hilton Hugo G. , Gleimer Michael , Brodsky Frances M. , Parham Peter
Published: September 2015

Chimpanzees have orthologs of the six fixed, functional human MHC class I genes. But, in addition, the chimpanzee has a seventh functional gene, Patr-AL, which is not polymorphic but contributes substantially to population diversity by its presence on only 50% of MHC haplotypes. The ancestral AL gene emerged long before the separation of human and chimpanzee ancestors and then subsequently and specifically lost function during human evolution, but was maintained in chimpanzees. Patr-AL is an alloantigen that participates in negative and positive selection of the T cell repertoire. The three-dimensional structure and the peptide-binding repertoire of Patr-AL and HLA-A*02 are surprisingly similar. In contrast, the expression of these two molecules is very different, as shown using specific mAbs and polyclonal Abs made against Patr-AL. Peripheral blood cells and B cell lines express low levels of Patr-AL at the cell surface. Higher levels are seen for 221-cell transfectants expressing Patr-AL, but in these cells a large majority of Patr-AL molecules are retained in the early compartments of the secretory pathway: mainly the endoplasmic reticulum, but also cis-Golgi. Replacing the cytoplasmic tail of Patr-AL with that of HLA-A*02 increased the cell-surface expression of Patr-AL substantially. Four substitutions distinguish the Patr-AL and HLA-A*02 cytoplasmic tails. Systematic mutagenesis showed that each substitution contributes changes in cell-surface expression. The combination of residues present in Patr-AL appears unique, but each individual residue is present in other primate MHC class I molecules, notably MHC-E, the most ancient of the functional human MHC class I molecules.
Cutaneous Infection with Leishmania major Mediates Heterologous Protection against Visceral Infection with Leishmania infantum
Authors: Romano Audrey , Doria Nicole A. , Mendez Jonatan , Sacks David L. , Peters Nathan C.
Published: September 2015

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a fatal disease of the internal organs caused by the eukaryotic parasite Leishmania. Control of VL would best be achieved through vaccination. However, this has proven to be difficult partly because the correlates of protective immunity are not fully understood. In contrast, protective immunity against nonfatal cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is well defined and mediated by rapidly recruited, IFN-γ–producing Ly6C+CD4+ T cells at the dermal challenge site. Protection against CL is best achieved by prior infection or live vaccination with Leishmania major, termed leishmanization. A long-standing question is whether prior CL or leishmanization can protect against VL. Employing an intradermal challenge model in mice, we report that cutaneous infection with Leishmania major provides heterologous protection against visceral infection with Leishmania infantum. Protection was associated with a robust CD4+ T cell response at the dermal challenge site and in the viscera. In vivo labeling of circulating cells revealed that increased frequencies of IFN-γ+CD4+ T cells at sites of infection are due to recruitment or retention of cells in the tissue, rather than increased numbers of cells trapped in the vasculature. Shortly after challenge, IFN-γ–producing cells were highly enriched for Ly6C+T-bet+ cells in the viscera. Surprisingly, this heterologous immunity was superior to homologous immunity mediated by prior infection with L. infantum. Our observations demonstrate a common mechanism of protection against different clinical forms of leishmaniasis. The efficacy of leishmanization against VL may warrant the introduction of the practice in VL endemic areas or during outbreaks of disease.
Fibrocytes Regulate Wilms Tumor 1–Positive Cell Accumulation in Severe Fibrotic Lung Disease
Authors: Sontake Vishwaraj , Shanmukhappa Shiva K. , DiPasquale Betsy A. , Reddy Geereddy B. , Medvedovic Mario , Hardie William D. , White Eric S. , Madala Satish K.
Published: September 2015

Collagen-producing myofibroblast transdifferentiation is considered a crucial determinant in the formation of scar tissue in the lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Multiple resident pulmonary cell types and bone marrow–derived fibrocytes have been implicated as contributors to fibrotic lesions because of the transdifferentiation potential of these cells into myofibroblasts. In this study, we assessed the expression of Wilms tumor 1 (WT1), a known marker of mesothelial cells, in various cell types in normal and fibrotic lungs. We demonstrate that WT1 is expressed by both mesothelial and mesenchymal cells in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis lungs but has limited or no expression in normal human lungs. We also demonstrate that WT1+ cells accumulate in fibrotic lung lesions, using two different mouse models of pulmonary fibrosis and WT1 promoter–driven fluorescent reporter mice. Reconstitution of bone marrow cells into a TGF-α transgenic mouse model demonstrated that fibrocytes do not transform into WT1+ mesenchymal cells, but they do augment accumulation of WT1+ cells in severe fibrotic lung disease. Importantly, the number of WT1+ cells in fibrotic lesions was correlated with severity of lung disease as assessed by changes in lung function, histology, and hydroxyproline levels in mice. Finally, inhibition of WT1 expression was sufficient to attenuate collagen and other extracellular matrix gene production by mesenchymal cells from both murine and human fibrotic lungs. Thus, the results of this study demonstrate a novel association between fibrocyte-driven WT1+ cell accumulation and severe fibrotic lung disease.
Petrology and structure of the West Flank, Frenchman's Cap Dome, near Revelstoke, British Columbia
Authors: McMillan W J
Published: September 2015

The area studied is on the west flank of the Frenchman's Cap gneiss dome, in the Shuswap Terrane, and li e s on the contact between the c re of the dome, composed of granitic gneisses, and the surrounding metasedimentary gneisses. The metasedimentary rocks
consist of interlayered, thin bedded quartzites, quarzitic and calcareous pelites, marble and calc-silicate rocks which were metamorphosed under conditions of the upper almandine amphibolite facies. The isograd delineated by the disappearance of muscovite in quartz- and sillimanite - bearing rocks
indicate s that the highest grade of me tamorphism was r e ache d in the southeast corner of the map-are a. Variations in the basal spacing of muscovite and, to a lesser extent, disappearance of kyanite and changes in the colour of biotite in sillimanite bearing rocks suggest t h at me tamorphic
grade decrease s outward from the core gneiss contact. Before they we r e subjected to high-grade regional metamorphism and de formation, the sedimentary rocks were intruded by concordant bodies of alkali c rock and carbonatite. Other carbonatite bodies may have been extrude d onto the surface as
flows or pyroclastic deposits at this time. The earliest recognized episode of deformation (Dl) coincided with high - grade metamorphic conditions. During Dl, isoclinal to subisoclinal flexural-flow folds with southwest-plunging axes formed. No axial-plane foliation was found in Dl folds;
metamorphic foliation is parallel to bedding. A second period of the formation (D2), also during high-grade conditions formed megascopic west-plunging flexural-flow folds with southeast-striking axial surfaces which dip southwest at moderate angles. Complex geometric configuration s resulted where
megascopic Dl and D2 folds interacted. Later deformation (D3) produced mesoscopic folds locally. Most plunge toward the northwest. Post metamorphic uplift (D4) of the crystalline complex resulted in scattered microscopic kink folds and many steeply inclined small displacement
faults.
The changing profile of infantile tremor syndrome in hilly terrain of India
Authors: Singla Deeksha A. , Sharma Milap , Sharma Seema , Sharma Vipin
Published: September 2015

Background: Infantile tremor syndrome (ITS) is characterized by anemia, skin pigmentation, tremors, physical, and mental regression without a defined etiopathogenesis and low incidence. Materials and Methods: We have studied 9 patients over 1 year for the changing clinical and laboratory variables of patients with ITS. Neuroregression and anemia were presented in all followed by tremors in 5 and hypotonia in 2. Result: Sepsis screen was positive in 6 and urine cultures in 2. Antibiotics were required in 6. ITS with changing parameters still significantly contributes to healthcare burden. Conclusion: It is important to screen for urinary infection and septicemia to avoid antibiotic abuse.
Postpartum pituitary apoplexy with isolated oculomotor nerve palsy: A rare medical emergency
Authors: Raina Sujeet , Jearth Vaneet , Sharma Ashish , Sharma Rajesh , Mistry Kewal
Published: September 2015

Pituitary apoplexy is a clinical syndrome characterized by sudden onset headache, visual deficits, ophthalmoplegia,
altered mental status, and hormonal dysfunction due to an expanding mass within the sella turcica resulting from hemorrhage or infarction of pituitary gland. We report a case of pituitary apoplexy that developed in postpartum period following postpartum hemorrhage and presented with isolated third cranial nerve palsy.
Extrapyramidal side-effects of low-dose aripiprazole in an 11-year-old child
Authors: Mohapatra Satyakam
Published: September 2015

Partial agonism of D2 and 5-HT1A receptors accounts for the low incidence of extrapyramidal side-effects of aripiprazole. Extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) during treatment with therapeutical doses of aripiprazole have been reported in adults and children. To the best of our knowledge, no cases of EPS with low doses (5 mg) have been reported until now. In this article, we present an 11-year-old child who developed EPS on low doses (5 mg) aripiprazole. This case emphasizes the need for careful surveillance for the development of EPS in patients treated even with low doses of aripiprazole.
An estimation of the prevalence of intellectual disabilities and its association with age in rural and urban populations in India
Authors: Lakhan Ram , Ekúndayò Olúgbémiga T. , Shahbazi Mohammad
Published: September 2015

Background: Intellectual disability (ID) is a global public health concern. Prevalence of ID and its association with age and other demographic factors is required for planning purposes in India. Objective: This study analyzed the age-adjusted prevalence of ID in rural and urban populations and its correlation with age in children and adults. Materials and Methods: Disability data published in the report (2002) of National Sample Survey Organization were analyzed, using Z-test to measure differences in age-adjusted prevalence. Spearman rho was calculated to determine strength and direction of the association, and regression analysis was used to predict prevalence rate, based on age in rural and urban population settings. Results: Overall, India has a prevalence of 10.5/1000 in ID. Urban population has slightly higher rate (11/1000) than rural (10.08/1000; P = 0.044). Age was found to be highly correlated with prevalence of ID in rural children (ϱ =0.981, P = 0.019) as well as in children (ϱ = −0.954, P = 0.000) and adults (ϱ = −0.957, P = 0.000) in urban population. The possibility of confounding or the existence of covariates for children in urban settings was noted. Conclusion: Results of this study match findings in other epidemiological studies. However, multistage, large-scale studies are recommended for investigating prevalence rates with different severity levels of ID.
Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease presenting as brainstem encephalitis with secondary blepharospasm
Authors: Jasti Dushyanth Babu , Prasad S. V. Naveen , Naveen Thota , Vengamma Bhuma
Published: September 2015

Central nervous system involvement in Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a very rare clinical manifestation. We report a 15-year-old girl who presented to us with fever, drowsiness, neck swellings, and involuntary closure of both eyelids of 2 days duration. Magnetic resonance imaging brain showed T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintensities in dorsal midbrain and pons. Cervical lymph node fine-needle aspiration cytology was suggestive of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. Blepharospasm secondary to infectious etiology is rare. Positron emission computed tomography brain showed increased focal uptake in anterior cingulate gyrus which can be the site of origin of blepharospasm. The patient was managed with steroids and trihexyphenidyl with significant recovery. Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a rare disease which has to be considered as one of the differential diagnosis in a case of acute encephalopathy with cervical lymphadenopathy.
Clinico-radiological profile and outcome of dengue patients with central nervous system manifestations: A case series in an Eastern India tertiary care hospital
Authors: Pal Souren , Sen Kaushik , Biswas Nirendra Mohan , Ghosal Anirban , Jaman S. K. Rousan , Kumar K. Y. Yashavantha
Published: September 2015

Background and Objective: Dengue, an acute viral disease, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, has a variable clinical spectrum ranging from asymptomatic infection to life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. However, neurological complications, in general, are unusual but have been observed more frequently in the recent past, and some studies highlighted varied neurological complications during the course of illness. Although dengue is classically considered a nonneurotropic virus, there is increasing evidence for dengue viral neurotropism. In this study, we have evaluated clinico-radiological profile and outcome of nine serologically confirmed dengue patients having varied manifestations of central nervous system (CNS) involvement. Materials and Methods: All the consecutive patients presented with neurological complications with positive serology for dengue infection (IgM positivity) in Department of Medicine, in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India from August 2013 to October 2014 were included in the study. These patients were subjected to a detailed clinical evaluation, laboratory assessment including complete hemogram, coagulation profile, liver function test, serum electrolytes, and routine CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) study with the exclusion of other common neuroinvasive pathogens. Results: Out of 9 patients with neurological complications associated with confirmed dengue infection, 2 (22%) patients had dengue encephalopathy, 5 (56%) patients have dengue encephalitis, 1 (11%) patient had dengue meningitis, and 1 (11%) patient had postdengue immune-mediated CNS involvement. Conclusion: This case series reaffirms the occurrence of varied CNS manifestations in dengue virus infection and underlines the importance of inclusion of dengue in the differential diagnosis of acute encephalitis syndrome.
Reliability and sensitivity to change of the timed standing balance test in children with down syndrome
Authors: Aranha Vencita Priyanka , Samuel Asir John , Saxena Shikha
Published: September 2015

Objective: To estimate the reliability and sensitivity to change of the timed standing balance test in children with Down syndrome (DS). Methods: It was a nonblinded, comparison study with a convenience sample of subjects consisting of children with DS (n = 9) aged 8–17 years. The main outcome measure was standing balance which was assessed using timed standing balance test, the time required to maintain in four conditions, eyes open static, eyes closed static, eyes open dynamic, and eyes closed dynamic. Results: Relative reliability was excellent for all four conditions with an Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) ranging from 0.91 to 0.93. The variation between repeated measurements for each condition was minimal with standard error of measurement (SEM) of 0.21–0.59 s, suggestive of excellent absolute reliability. The sensitivity to change as measured by smallest real change (SRC) was 1.27 s for eyes open static, 1.63 s for eyes closed static, 0.58 s for eyes open dynamic, and 0.61 s for eyes closed static. Conclusions: Timed standing balance test is an easy to administer test and sensitive to change with strong absolute and relative reliabilities, an important first step in establishing its utility as a clinical balance measure in children with DS.
Tetraventricular central neurocytoma: A rare presentation with imaging.pathologic correlation
Authors: Akakin Akin , Yilmaz Baran , Demir Mustafa Kemal , Yapicier Ozlem , Toktas Zafer Orkun , Kilic Turker
Published: September 2015

Central neurocytoma (CN) is a benign intraventricular neuronal tumor with a favorable prognosis. It accounts approximately 0.25–0.5% of intracranial tumors. In this report, we describe a very rare case of tetraventricular CN with imaging-pathologic correlation, and discuss their atypical features in a location together with treatment options. A 27-year-old man was admitted to the hospital with symptoms of progressive headaches of several months' duration. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a well-circumscribed, lobulated intraventricular mass with numerous intratumoral cystlike areas. The mass was located in the enlarged lateral ventricles bilaterally extending to the third and the fourth ventricle. Surgical removal of the 4th ventricle component of the tumor was performed. Histomorphological and immunohistochemical findings of the tumor were consistent with CN. After pathological diagnosis, gamma knife surgery was performed. CN may present with atypical features in a location with a usual histopathological findings. To our knowledge, we described the third case of tetraventricular CN, which was partially treated with both surgical resection and radiosurgery.
Can we evaluate cranial aneurysms on conventional brain magnetic resonance imaging?
Authors: Caliskan Emine , Pekcevik Yeliz , Kaya Adnan
Published: September 2015

Purpose: To evaluate the contribution of conventional brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the determination of intracranial aneurysms. Materials and Methods: Brain MRI and computed tomography angiography (CTA) of 45 patients (29 women and 16 men; age range, 32–80 years) with aneurysm were analyzed. A comparison was made between brain MRI and CTA based on size and presence of aneurysm. The comparisons between MRI and CTA were investigated through Bland-Altman graphics, receiver operating characteristic curve, and Kappa statistics. Results: Fifty-seven aneurysms were evaluated. Forty-five percent of 57 aneurysms on CTA were detected on conventional brain MRI. A significant correlation was found between CTA and brain MRI in the diagnosis of aneurysm (P < 0.05). In an analysis of the size measurement, a significant correlation was observed between CTA and brain MRI. Seventy-seven percent of aneurysms <4 mm was not detected and the efficiency of MRI in the detection of aneurysms <4 mm was found to be low. Conclusion: Aneurysms can also be appreciated on conventional brain MRI, and vascular structures should be reviewed carefully while analyzing brain MRI.
Corneomandibular reflex: Anatomical basis
Authors: Pistacchi Michele , Gioulis Manuela , Mazzon Davide , Marsala Sandro Zambito
Published: September 2015

Corneomandibular reflex is a pathological phenomenon evident in cases of severe brainstem damage. It is considered to be a pathological exteroceptive reflex, associated with precentro bulbar tract lesions. The sign is useful in distinguishing central neurological injuries to metabolic disorders in acutely comatose patients, localizing lesions to the upper brainstem area, determining the depth of coma and its evolution, providing evidence of uncal or transtentorial herniation in acute cerebral hemisphere lesions, and it is a marker of supraspinal level impairment in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. This sign was evident in a patient with severe brain damage. We discuss the literature findings and its relevance in prognosis establishment.
An exemplary case of a bromine explosion event linked to cyclone development in the Arctic
Authors: Blechschmidt A.-M. , Richter A. , Burrows J. P. , Kaleschke L. , Strong K. , Theys N. , Weber M. , Zhao X. , Zien A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Intense, cyclone-like shaped plumes of tropospheric bromine monoxide (BrO) are regularly observed by GOME-2 on board the MetOp-A satellite over Arctic sea ice in polar spring. These plumes are often transported by high latitude cyclones, sometimes over several days despite the short atmospheric lifetime of BrO. However, only few studies have focused on the role of polar weather systems in the development, duration and transport of tropospheric BrO plumes during bromine explosion events. The latter are caused by an autocatalytic chemical chain reaction associated with tropospheric ozone depletion and initiated by the release of bromine from cold brine covered ice or snow to the atmosphere. In this manuscript, a case study investigating a comma-shaped BrO plume which developed over the Beaufort Sea and was observed by GOME-2 for several days is presented. By making combined use of satellite data and numerical models, it is shown that the occurrence of the plume was closely linked to frontal lifting in a polar cyclone and that it most likely resided in the lowest 3 km of the troposphere. In contrast to previous case studies, we demonstrate that the dry conveyor belt, a potentially bromine-rich stratospheric air stream which can complicate interpretation of satellite retrieved tropospheric BrO, is spatially separated from the observed BrO plume. It is concluded that weather conditions associated with the polar cyclone favored the bromine activation cycle and blowing snow production, which may have acted as a bromine source during the bromine explosion event.
Large XCH4 anomaly in summer 2013 over Northeast Asia observed by GOSAT
Authors: Ishizawa M. , Uchino O. , Morino I. , Inoue M. , Yoshida Y. , Mabuchi K. , Shirai T. , Tohjima Y. , Maksyutov S. , Ohyama H. , Kawakami S. , Takizawa A.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Extremely high levels of column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of atmospheric methane (XCH4) were detected in August and September 2013 over Northeast Asia (~ 20 ppb above the averaged summertime XCH4 over 2009–2012, after removing a long-term trend), as being retrieved from the Short-Wavelength InfraRed (SWIR) spectral data observed with the Thermal And Near-infrared Sensor for carbon Observation-Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) onboard Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT). Similar enhancements of XCH4 were also observed by the ground-based measurements at two Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) sites in Japan. The analysis of surface CH4 concentrations observed at three monitoring sites around the Japan islands suggest that the extreme increase of XCH4 has occurred in a limited area. The model analysis was conducted to investigate this anomalously high XCH4 event, using an atmospheric transport model. The results indicate that the extreme increase of XCH4 is attributed to the anomalous atmospheric pressure pattern over East Asia during the summer of 2013, which effectively transported the CH4-rich air to Japan from the strong CH4 source areas in East China. The two Japanese TCCON sites, ~ 1000 km east-west apart each other, coincidentally located along the substantially CH4-rich air flow from East China. The GOSAT orbiting with three-day recurrence successfully observed the synoptic-scale XCH4 enhancement in the comparable accuracy to the TCCON data. This analysis demonstrates the capability of GOSAT to monitor an XCH4 event on a synoptic scale.
On the occurrence of annual layers in Dome Fuji ice core early Holocene ice
Authors: Svensson A. , Fujita S. , Bigler M. , Braun M. , Dallmayr R. , Gkinis V. , Goto-Azuma K. , Hirabayashi M. , Kawamura K. , Kipfstuhl S. , Kjær H. A. , Popp T. , Simonsen M. , Steffensen J. P. , Vallelonga P. , Vinther B. M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Whereas ice cores from high-accumulation sites in coastal Antarctica clearly demonstrate annual layering, it is debated whether a seasonal signal is also preserved in ice cores from lower-accumulation sites further inland and particularly on the East Antarctic Plateau. In this study, we examine 5 m of early Holocene ice from the Dome Fuji (DF) ice core at a high temporal resolution by continuous flow analysis. The ice was continuously analysed for concentrations of dust, sodium, ammonium, liquid conductivity, and water isotopic composition. Furthermore, a dielectric profiling was performed on the solid ice. In most of the analysed ice, the multi-parameter impurity data set appears to resolve the seasonal variability although the identification of annual layers is not always unambiguous. The study thus provides information on the snow accumulation process in central East Antarctica. A layer counting based on the same principles as those previously applied to the NGRIP (North Greenland Ice core Project) and the Antarctic EPICA (European Project for Ice Coring in Antarctica) Dronning Maud Land (EDML) ice cores leads to a mean annual layer thickness for the DF ice of 3.0 ± 0.3 cm that compares well to existing estimates. The measured DF section is linked to the EDML ice core through a characteristic pattern of three significant acidity peaks that are present in both cores. The corresponding section of the EDML ice core has recently been dated by annual layer counting and the number of years identified independently in the two cores agree within error estimates. We therefore conclude that, to first order, the annual signal is preserved in this section of the DF core. This case study demonstrates the feasibility of determining annually deposited strata on the central East Antarctic Plateau. It also opens the possibility of resolving annual layers in the Eemian section of Antarctic ice cores where the accumulation is estimated to have been greater than in the Holocene.
The flow field of the upper hypoxic Eastern Tropical North Atlantic oxygen minimum zone
Authors: Stramma L. , Czeschel R. , Tanhua T. , Brandt P. , Visbeck M. , Giese B. S.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. A subsurface low oxygen zone is located in the eastern tropical North Atlantic Ocean (ETNA) in the upper ocean with the core of the hypoxic (O2 ≤ 60 μmol kg−1) oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) at 400 to 500 m depth. The poorly known subsurface circulation in the OMZ region is derived from observations and data assimilation results. Measurements in the eastern tropical North Atlantic in November/December 2008, in November/December 2009 and October/November 2010 of velocity, oxygen and of a tracer (CF3SF5) that was released in April 2008 at ∼ 8° N, 23° W (at ∼ 330 m depth) show circulation in the upper part of the OMZ with spreading to the east in the North Equatorial Countercurrent (NECC) region and northwestward around the Guinea Dome. Three floats equipped with oxygen sensors deployed at ∼ 8° N, 23° W with parking depths at 330, 350 and 400 m depths were used to estimate velocity along the float trajectory at the surface and at the park depth. South of 9° N, the zonal surface velocity estimate from float data alternate seasonally. At the 350 m park depth north of 9° N a cyclonic northwestward flow across the OMZ was observed. The northward shift into the upper OMZ and the cyclonic flow around the Guinea Dome seem to be connected to a strong Atlantic Meridional Mode (AMM) event in 2009. A near-surface cyclonic circulation cell east of the Cape Verde Islands expands into the OMZ layer. The circulation of the upper OMZ mirrors the near surface circulation. Oxygen measurements from the cruises used here, as well as other recent cruises up to the year 2014 confirm the continuous deoxygenation trend in the upper OMZ since the 1960's near the Guinea Dome. The three floats deployed with the tracer show spreading paths consistent with the overall observed tracer spreading. Mesoscale eddies may modify the oxygen distribution in the OMZs. Oxygen sensors on the floats remained well calibrated for more than 20 months and so the oxygen profiles can be used to investigate mesoscale eddy signatures. However, in general eddies are less energetic in the ETNA south of the Cape Verde Islands compared to similar latitudes in the Eastern Tropical South Pacific.
Evaluation of the effects of fires and explosions in the transport of hazardous materials
Authors: Assael Marc J. , Paschalidis Leandros Ch. , Sakellaropoulos George P.
Published: September 2015

Transportation of liquid and gaseous fuels and chemicals, albeit not frequent, can lead to serious dangers for humans, the environment and property due to fires and explosions. The two most common transportation modes on land are tanker trucks and pipelines. The effects of fires and explosions in such transportations can be modelled successfully to describe observed damages, as discussed here for three different types of accidents, namely tanker trucks carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and a gas pipeline, resulting in ignition and explosion. The effects of overpressure due to explosion and of radiated heat by fires are effectively modelled. The methodology and the developed e-platform are valuable teaching tools for engineers and civic personnel in order to foresee and assess risk and accident consequences near inhabited areas, and/or to predict alternate routes.
Regeneration of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tendon Tear After Ultrasound-Guided Injection With Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Park Gi-Young , Kwon Dong Rak , Lee Sang Chul
Published: September 2015

Rotator cuff tendon tear is one of the most common causes of chronic shoulder pain and disability. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of ultrasound-guided human umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) injection to regenerate a full-thickness subscapularis tendon tear in a rabbit model by evaluating the gross morphology and histology of the injected tendon and motion analysis of the rabbit's activity. At 4 weeks after ultrasound-guided UCB-derived MSC injection, 7 of the 10 full-thickness subscapularis tendon tears were only partial-thickness tears, and 3 remained full-thickness tendon tears. The tendon tear size and walking capacity at 4 weeks after UCB-derived MSC injection under ultrasound guidance were significantly improved compared with the same parameters immediately after tendon tear. UCB-derived MSC injection under ultrasound guidance without surgical repair or bioscaffold resulted in the partial healing of full-thickness rotator cuff tendon tears in a rabbit model. Histology revealed that UCB-derived MSCs induced regeneration of rotator cuff tendon tear and that the regenerated tissue was predominantly composed of type I collagens. In this study, ultrasound-guided injection of human UCB-derived MSCs contributed to regeneration of the full-thickness rotator cuff tendon tear without surgical repair. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of local injection of MSCs into the rotator cuff tendon.

Significance

The results of this study suggest that ultrasound-guided umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell injection may be a useful conservative treatment for full-thickness rotator cuff tendon tear repair.
Reactive Magnetron Sputtering of ZrO2/Al2O3 Coatings: Alumina Content and Structure Stability
Authors: Zukerman I. , Boxman R.L. , Raveh A.
Published: September 2015

Ternary zirconia-alumina coatings with different compositional ratios, ranging from pure zirconia to 50% alumina content, were deposited by reactive sputtering from two targets, Zr and Al, in argon-oxygen mixtures. The coating composition was controlled by the Zr/Al target power ratio provided by two pulsed-DC power supplies. The coatings were ~1 µm thick and they were deposited on floating potential substrates at a temperature of 650±3K.
XRD indicated that the pure zirconia coatings possessed a monoclinic structure with a grain size of 35-40 nm. Adding alumina to the zirconia coating stabilized the cubic zirconia phase and decreased the grain size to 10-15 nm. The alumina phase in the coatings remained amorphous. The hardness of the nanocomposite structure increased from 11.6±0.5 GPa to 16.1±0.5 GPa for an alumina content of 17%. At higher alumina concentrations, the zirconia phase became amorphous and the hardness decreased to 10-11 GPa.
Structure stability of the zirconia-alumina coatings was studied by measuring the coating structure and hardness after annealing at temperatures up to 1173 K. Pure zirconia (m-ZrO2) coatings had low structure stability; the hardness reached a maximum value of 18±1 GPa after annealing at a temperature of 773-873K; however, at higher annealing temperatures the hardness decreased, reaching a minimum value of 12.3±0.6 GPa after annealing at 1173K. The hardness of the nanocomposite ZrO2/Al2O3 coating with various compositions increased with annealing temperature. The hardness of a coating with an alumina content of 17% reached a high value of 19.2±0.5 GPa after annealing at 1073-1173 K. Measurements of post annealing XRD analyses indicated that the stabilization of the coating structure with c-ZrO2/a-Al2O3 phases is the reason for the higher structure stability. From the analyses of phase stability and hardness before and after annealing, we conclude that adding alumina to the zirconia phase promotes the formation of nanocomposite c-ZrO2/a-Al2O3 coatings with a markedly higher stability than single-phase m-ZrO2.
Highlights:
1. ZrO2/Al2O3 nanocomposite coatings were deposited by co-sputtering from Zr and Al targets.
2. Adding alumina to the zirconia coating stabilized the cubic zirconia phase.
3. ZrO2-17% Al2O3 coatings had a grain size of 10-15 nm and a hardness of 16.1±0.5 GPa.
4. ZrO2/Al2O3 coatings maintained a high hardness after annealing at 1173K with a high value of 19 GPa for alumina content of 17%.
5. The ZrO2/Al2O3 nanocomposite coatings were crack-free after annealing at 1173K.
Probing the stress and depression circuits with a disease gene
Authors: Park Chang Sin , Yang X William
Published: September 2015

Selectively deleting a gene that has been linked to depression from specific neurons in mice sheds new light on a neural circuit that controls stress-induced depressive behaviors.
Historias de Mujeres en la Psicología Chilena: Contribuciones de Lola Hoffmann, Héliettè Saint Jean y Vera Kardonsky
Authors: Winkler Müller María Inés , Reyes Espejo María Isabel
Published: September 2015

El rol de las mujeres en la historia ha sido relevado y cuestionado a partir de los movimientos feministas. El objetivo del trabajo fue indagar el pasado en busca de mujeres en la historia de la psicología chilena, para reinstalarlas —a ellas y sus experiencias— en el discurso histórico y en la memoria colectiva. Con criterios prácticos y teóricos, se seleccionaron 3 mujeres que se desempeñaron en el campo psicológico en Chile en la segunda mitad del siglo pasado: Lola Hoffmann, Héliettè Saint Jean y Vera Kardonsky. A partir de fuentes secundarias y 11 entrevistas a sus colegas y parientes, se elaboró un relato inspirado en el estilo de las historias de vida. La narrativa historiográfica de estas 3 pioneras ilustra sus experiencias y los mecanismos de exclusión y formas de discriminación de las mujeres en la sociedad civil y en el espacio profesional. Se identifican sus fortalezas y estrategias individuales de desarrollo y resistencia, repensando un pasado que dota a las autoras de memoria y que resulta indiscutiblemente vivo en su presente y en sus propias experiencias como mujeres psicólogas.
Discretization Methods for Continuous Probability Distributions
Authors: Hammond Robert K. , Eric Bickel J.
Published: September 2015

Decision analysis problems typically involve probabilistic modeling of discrete and continuous uncertainties. In order to facilitate assessment or represent continuous uncertainties in a discrete decision tree, it is common for decision analysts to represent pdfs with properly designed pmfs, a process known asdiscretization. We describe several discretization methods, describing the strengths and weaknesses of each. We also provide example applications of several of these methods.
Decision Making with Partial Probabilistic or Preference Information
Authors: Montiel Luis V. , Bickel J. Eric
Published: September 2015

We present a model to characterize partial information using linear constraints and review the joint distribution simulator algorithm (JDSIM), which is the main tool in the analysis of potentially optimal alternatives. We revisit the basic concepts of decision under uncertainty and the geometry of the regions of optimality. Finally, we present an example to illustrate the concepts and conclude with new directions for future research.
Teaching Soft
OR/MS
Methodologies: What, Why, and How
Authors: Ackermann Fran
Published: September 2015

This article explores the value of soft OR methods through the device of Kipling's 6 wise men reflecting on what is soft OR, why teach it, who and when should it be taught, and finally how should it be taught. This article notes the evolution and coming of age of the methodologies before moving to the what, why, and how elements, and concludes with some suggestions for future development. This article aims to also provide a good overview of the field of soft OR with a wide range of reference material so those interested in the field and/or particular aspects are able to explore in more depth.
Simultaneous Improvement of Charge Generation and Extraction in Colloidal Quantum Dot Photovoltaics Through Optical Management
Authors: Aqoma Havid , Barange Nilesh , Ryu Ilhwan , Yim Sanggyu , Do Young Rag , Cho Shinuk , Ko Doo‐Hyun , Jang Sung‐Yeon
Published: September 2015

Inverted structure heterojunction colloidal quantum dot (CQD) photovoltaic devices with an improved performance are developed using single‐step coated CQD active layers with a thickness of ≈60 nm. This improved performance is achieved by managing the device architecture to simultaneously enhance charge generation and extraction by raising optical absorption within the depletion region. The devices are composed of an ITO/PEDOT:PSS/PbS‐CQD/ZnO/Al structure, in which the p–n heterojunction is placed at the rear (i.e., opposite to the side of illumination) of the devices (denoted as R‐Cell). Sufficient optical generation is achieved at very low CQD layer thicknesses of 45–60 nm because of the constructive interference caused by the insertion of ZnO between the CQD and the Al electrode. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of R‐Cells containing a thin CQD layers (≈60 nm) is much higher (≈6%) than that of conventional devices containing CQD layers with a thickness of ≈300 nm (PCE ≈4.5%). This optical management strategy provides a general guide to obtain the optimal trade‐off between generation and extraction in planar p–n junction solar cells. In terms of device engineering, all the layers in our R‐Cells are fabricated using single coating, which can lead to compatibility with high‐throughput processes.
Electrochemical and Top‐Down 3D Ion‐Carving to Change Magnetic Properties
Authors: Zhu Jian , Deng Da
Published: September 2015

It is challenging to develop new top‐down approaches to tailor particles into subnanometer size structures on a large scale to further reveal their structure‐dependent physicochemical properties. Here, we demonstrate a non‐conventional, electrochemical, 3D ion‐carving process to tailor particles into subscale flower‐like nanostructures at room temperature. The technology is based on the electrochemical insertion/extraction of lithium ions as a carving “knife” to carve the single‐crystalline particle precursor into higher‐order, flower‐like nanostructures with hexagonal nanopetals as the building units. Our study demonstrates that the morphology of the as‐carved, flower‐like nanostructures can be controlled by the electrochemical parameters, such as the current density and the number of cycles. Particularly interesting is that dramatically different magnetic properties can be achieved depending on the morphology through careful tuning by the electrochemical ion‐carving process. The as‐carved, flower‐like particles may find many important applications, including magnetic nanodevices. Our approach, in principle, is applicable to prepare various kinds of 3D‐structured materials with different compositions.
Predictors of 30‐day morbidity and mortality in transnasal microscopic pituitary tumor excision
Authors: Lawrence Lauren A. , Baker Andrew B. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Karnezis Tom T. , Soler Zachary M. , Schlosser Rodney J.
Published: September 2015

Background

There is a lack of population‐based, multi‐institutional analyses of factors associated with morbidity and mortality following pituitary tumor excision.

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project files were used to compile information on patients that had undergone transnasal microscopic pituitary tumor resection from 2006 to 2012. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative characteristics, and morbidity and mortality in the 30 days following surgery were included. Multivariate logistic regression was used for categorical variables and multivariate linear regression was used for continuous variables to evaluate factors leading to adverse events.

Results

A total of 658 patients were included, of which 58 (8.81%) experienced a complication, reoperation or death in the 30 days following surgery. The most common complications were reoperation (3.37%), followed by unplanned reintubation (1.99%), urinary tract infection (1.68%), and transfusion (1.68%). Predictors of any complication, reoperation, or death include preoperative sepsis (odds ratio [OR] = 7.596) and lower preoperative serum albumin (OR = 6.667). Younger age predicted surgical complications (OR = 1.105). Predictors of medical complications include higher body mass index (OR = 1.112), chronic steroid use (OR = 6.568), preoperative sepsis (OR = 15.297), and lower preoperative serum hematocrit (OR = 1.225). Predictors of increased total length of hospital stay were older age (β = 0.146), higher body mass index (β = 0.188), chronic steroid use (β = 0.142), preoperative sepsis (β = 0.489), and lower preoperative serum albumin (β = −0.213).

Conclusion

Although adverse events following pituitary tumor excision are low, awareness of factors associated with morbidity and mortality in the early postoperative period may allow for improved patient monitoring and outcomes.
New samarium(III) complex of 5‐aminoorotic acid with antioxidant activity
Authors: Kostova Irena , Valcheva‐Traykova Maria
Published: September 2015

A samarium(III) complex (SmAOA) of 5‐aminoorotic acid (HAOA) was synthesized by reaction of the respective inorganic salt and ligand in a molar ratio of 1:3. The structure of the complex was determined by means of elemental analysis and UV–visible, NMR, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and FT Raman spectroscopies. Significant differences in the FT‐IR and FT Raman spectra of the complex were observed as compared to the spectra of the free ligand. Detailed vibrational analysis of HAOA and Sm(III)–AOA systems revealed that the binding mode in the complex was bidentate through the carboxylic oxygen atoms. The newly synthesized SmAOA showed antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activities of both HAOA and SmAOA were related to their electron donor properties. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facile preparation for robust and freestanding silk fibroin films in a 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium acetate ionic liquid system
Authors: Li Lu , Xiong Yanna , Yu Shitao , Liu Shiwei , Liu Fusheng , Xie Congxia
Published: September 2015

Silk fibroin film (SFF) with excellent mechanical properties was prepared for the first time with Bombyx mori silk fibroin as the material and 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium acetate ([Bmim]OAc) ionic liquid (IL) as the solvent. The aim was to understand whether the microstructure of SFF could be modified and whether the mechanical properties were improved when [Bmim]OAc IL was used as a solution. With this new system, the obtained SFF was easily peeled off of the substrate, and the silk fibroin proteins retained the α‐helix secondary structure (silk I). Further test results show that the tensile strength (126.8–129.7 MPa) and anti‐UV performance were stronger than the silk fibroin regenerated by traditional ways. Therefore, this study provided and identified a new method with [Bmim]OAc to obtain SFF with strong mechanical properties. This facile preparation and related SFF with excellent mechanical strength could have potential applications in biocompatible implants, synthetic coatings for artificial skin, and many other areas. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42822.
A Smooth Wave‐Form Shaped Command with Flexible Maneuvering Time: Analysis and Experiments
Authors: Alhazza Khaled , Masoud Ziyad , Alotaibi Nehal
Published: September 2015

Shaped commands are used to eliminate residual oscillations of crane payloads. Command jerks are detrimental to the safe and efficient operation of cranes. Smooth shaped commands are recommended to avoid such jerks in motion commands to crane motors. The amplitude of the shaped command is governed by its time length. The time length of the shaped command is highly dependent on the natural period of oscillation of the payload. A flexible time length of the shaped command introduces flexibility in selecting the desired command amplitude that would lead to a reduced stress on the crane actuators. In this work, a smooth wave‐form acceleration command is proposed to eliminate residual oscillations in rest‐to‐rest maneuvers of cranes. The proposed shaped command is derived analytically. The system performance is simulated numerically and validated experimentally on a scaled model of an overhead crane. The proposed wave‐form is further modified to relax the dependence of the profile on the natural period of oscillation of the payload.
A Fluorophore‐labeled Peptide of Human Ribosomal Protein S3 for the Detection of the 8‐Oxoguanine within the Cells
Authors: Han Se Hee , Hahm Soo‐Hyun , Tran An Hue Vy , Park Jin Woo , Chung Ji Hyung , Park Geon Tae , Han Ye Sun
Published: September 2015

Detection and quantification of 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydroguanine (8‐oxoG) within cells are important for the study of the molecular mechanisms in cancer. Human ribosomal protein S3 (hRpS3), which involved in DNA repair, has high binding affinity to 8‐oxoG. We developed an imaging probe to detect 8‐oxoG using a specific peptide of hRpS3. Sequence analysis was conducted to elucidate the 8‐oxoG‐specific binding region of hRpS3, and three truncated mutants, D1 (amino acids 1–85), D2 (amino acids 86–159), and D3 (amino acids 160–242), were constructed. Both wild‐type‐hRpS3 and D2 were able to bind 8‐oxoG, which is consistent with the results of a previous report on the role of K134 in Drosophila melanogaster RpS3. We synthesized a specific peptide and covalently linked with a fluorophore (FPR‐552, similar to Cy3) to generate an 8‐oxoG imaging probe. Our 8‐oxoG S3‐probe successfully detected the presence of 8‐oxoG in damaged cells. Furthermore, this probe has threefold higher sensitivity than 8‐oxoG DNA lesion antibody.