bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Development of Leaf Splitting Unit for Aloe Vera Gel Expulsion Machine
Authors: Chandegara V.K. , Varshney A.K.
Published: May 2014

In this investigation, leaf‐splitting unit was designed and fabricated for Aloe vera gel expulsion machine. The splitting unit consisted of grip roller, reciprocating blade, rotary disc and eccentric drive. The rotary motion was converted into the reciprocating drive with slanted rotary disc mounted on shaft. The grip roller was covered with spongy material to hold the A. vera leaf without breaking rind. The design parameters included were grip roller dimensions and speed, stroke of reciprocating blade and size of rotary disc. The leaf was inserted between two grip rollers and splitting into two halves carried out by reciprocating knife. The splitting unit was tested for different speed of grip expulsion roller and leaf thickness. It was concluded that for getting maximum gel recovery, minimum residual gel percentage, highest expulsion efficiency and output capacity, the leaves should be split in splitting unit and the A. vera gel expulsion should be carried out at 75 rpm roller speed for 25–30‐mm thickness of A. vera leaves.

Practical Applications

Gel extraction from A. vera leaves is important process as it is used as preservative coating, food drinks and cosmetics. Squeezing of A. vera leaves leads mixing of compounds from leaf skin and deteriorates the quality of gel. The leaf‐splitting process is necessary to reduce the contamination of inner A. vera gel during gel expulsion by preventing ingress of chemical ingredients from leaf skin and maintain its cosmetic and nutritional values. The developed leaf‐splitting unit would reduce manual contact and minimize the processing time to get good quality gel from A. vera leaves without contamination.
Baicalin attenuates transforming growth factor-β1-induced human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation and phenotypic switch by inhibiting hypoxia inducible factor-1α and aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression
Authors: Huang Shian , Chen Puwen , Shui Xiaorong , He Yuan , Wang Heyong , Zheng Jing , Zhang Liangqing , Li Jianwen , Xue Yiqiang , Chen Can , Lei Wei
Published: May 2014

Objectives

Baicalin, a natural flavone, has antithrombotic, antihyperlipidemic and antiinflammortory activity. It can also inhibit cancer cell proliferation and reduce brain cell apoptosis. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of baicalin on the excessive proliferation of human pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (HPASMCs) induced by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and to investigate the roles of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) in mediating this TGF-β1-induced excessive proliferation of HPASMCs.

Methods

TGF-β1-induced proliferation of HPASMCs was assayed using the CCK8 method. The cellular phenotype was identified by immunocytochemical staining. Expression of HIF-1α and AhR mRNA was determined by real-time quantitative PCR.

Key findings

TGF-β1 promoted significantly HPASMC proliferation (P < 0.05) and induced a phenotypic switch from the contractile to synthetic type. Baicalin inhibited this TGF-β1-induced phenotypic switch and consequently the excessive growth of HPASMCs in a time-dependent and dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Furthermore, baicalin attenuated the abnormal proliferation of HPASMCs through suppression of the HIF-1α and AhR pathways.

Conclusions

Our study shows that baicalin has the potential to be used as a novel drug in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension pathology by antagonizing HIF-1α and AhR expression and subsequently decreasing HPASMC proliferation and the phenotypic switch.
Assessment of the Relationship Between the Use of Birth Control Pill and the Characteristics of Mate Selection
Authors: Gori Alessio , Giannini Marco , Craparo Giuseppe , Caretti Vincenzo , Nannini Ilaria , Madathil Renee , Schuldberg David
Published: May 2014

Introduction

In recent research, scientists have begun to suspect that birth control pill use could interfere with key mechanisms that play a role when women choose a sexual partner. Many studies have shown that women, particularly during the most fertile days of their menstrual cycle, look for specific physical, psychological, and behavioral characteristics indicative of genetic quality in a short-term partner.

Aims

Analysis of the psychometric properties of the Partner's Masculinity Index (PMI) scale. The scale was built to assess the degree of masculinity in hypothetical short-term partners.

Methods

A total of 395 female Italian volunteers from Central Italy (M = 32.9 years old, SD = 8.58, range = 18–50 years) completed the study. The psychometric properties of PMI were then evaluated.

Main Outcome Measures

We administered the following self-report questionnaires: (i) PMI; (ii) Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 Masculinity/Femininity scale; and (iii) Demographic Questionnaire.

Results

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis showed a four-factor structure for the PMI. Internal consistency of the measure, evaluated with the Cronbach's alpha, was satisfactory. Factorial ANOVA results showed that the group of nonpill users obtained higher scores on the PMI scale than the group of pill users (considering the fertile phase of the cycle).

Conclusions

From an evolutionary point of view, changes in preference for indicators of genetic quality in a sexual partner are considered to be functional and adaptive. Pill use may have implications for both current and future generations. Directions for future research are discussed.
Eating fish for two
Authors: Strain J. J.
Published: May 2014

This article is based on the British Nutrition Foundation's Annual Lecture 2013, which focused on maternal fish consumption and the effects of methylmercury (MeHg) on fetal development, with respect to current guidance and policy on fish consumption during pregnancy. Fish makes a valuable contribution to nutrient intakes across the globe and is the primary protein source for many individuals, particularly those in the developing world. Populations with a high fish consumption, such as in the Republic of the Seychelles, have a greater exposure to MeHg, which is present in varying amounts in all fish. MeHg is a toxic pollutant, which is known to impair neurodevelopment. The dose of MeHg from fish consumption, however, needed to impair neurodevelopment is unknown. Current UK and US guidance on fish consumption during pregnancy tend to focus more on avoiding risks rather than highlighting the benefits that can be obtained from eating fish. Such recommendations have been mainly based on data arising from epidemiological studies in the Faroe Islands, where MeHg exposure was largely from pilot whale consumption. Although small adverse effects on child development have been reported in data from the Faroe Islands, data from the ongoing Seychelles Child Development Studies have shown no adverse effects of pre‐natal MeHg exposure from high maternal fish consumption (9–12 meals containing fish per week) on developmental outcomes. Instead these data suggest that nutrients, including long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PUFAs), provided by fish may offer a beneficial effect and attenuate or modify any effects of MeHg on developmental outcomes. Recent expert consultations have concluded that the health benefits of fish consumption outweigh the risks posed by MeHg exposure and have argued the need for improved education and guidance to highlight the importance of consuming nutrients, including LC‐PUFAs, from fish for optimal child development and to encourage fish consumption during pregnancy.
Diet of an Olympian: Food with a purpose
Authors: Currell K.
Published: May 2014

Olympic medals are often decided by a fraction of a per cent. Over the last 20 years, elite athletes have taken a systematic approach to improving their performance. Performance nutrition is the systematic use of nutrition science to improve sporting performance and is increasingly being used by elite athletes. There are three areas of sporting performance where performance nutrition may be applied, namely the prevention of illness and injury, facilitation of adaptation from training and improvement of competition performance.

Performance nutrition can help prevent illness by providing the correct amount of energy and macronutrients to match the energy needs of training and to prevent fatigue. Post‐exercise carbohydrate and protein intake supports recovery from exercise and enables athletes to be in a position to train again. Nutrients such as calcium can promote bone health and prevent injury. Nutrient intake around training facilitates the adaptation to exercise. Protein intake post resistance exercise enhances the hypertrophy adaptation to exercise and manipulation of carbohydrate intake facilitates the adaptive response to endurance exercise. Use of both macronutrients and ergogenic aids (such as beetroot juice) around competition can enhance the sporting performance.
Long‐term efficacy of NASHA Dx injection therapy for treatment of fecal incontinence
Authors: Mellgren A. , Matzel K. E. , Pollack J. , Hull T. , Bernstein M. , Graf W. ,   The Nasha Dx Study Group
Published: May 2014

Background

Injectable bulking treatment for fecal incontinence (FI) is intended to expand tissue in the anal canal and prevent fecal leakage. Use of injectable bulking agents is increasing because it can be performed in an outpatient setting and with low risk for morbidity. This study evaluated the long‐term (36‐month) clinical effectiveness and safety of injection of non‐animal stabilized hyaluronic acid/dextranomer (NASHA Dx) on FI symptoms.

Methods

In a prospective multicenter trial, 136 patients with FI received the NASHA Dx bulking agent. Treatment success defined as a reduction in number of FI episodes by 50% or more compared with baseline (Responder50). Change from baseline in Cleveland Clinic Florida Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS) and Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (FIQL), and adverse events were also evaluated.

Key Results

Successful decrease in symptoms was achieved in 52% of patients at 6 months and this was sustained at 12 months (57%) and 36 months (52%). Mean CCFIS decreased from 14 at baseline to 11 at 36 months (p < 0.001). Quality‐of‐life scores for all four domains improved significantly between baseline and 36 months of follow‐up. Severe adverse events were rare and most adverse events were transient and pertained to minor bleeding and pain or discomfort.

Conclusions & Inferences

Submucosal injection of NASHA Dx provided a significant improvement of FI symptoms in a majority of patients and this effect was stable during the course of the follow‐up and maintained for 3 years.
Convergent phylogenetic and functional responses to altered fire regimes in mesic savanna grasslands of North America and South Africa
Authors: Forrestel Elisabeth J. , Donoghue Michael J. , Smith Melinda D.
Published: May 2014

The importance of fire in the creation and maintenance of mesic grassland communities is well recognized. Improved understanding of how grasses – the dominant clade in these important ecosystems – will respond to alterations in fire regimes is needed in the face of anthropogenically driven climate and land‐use change.

Here, we examined how grass communities shift in response to experimentally manipulated fire regimes at multiple levels of community diversity – taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional – in C4‐dominanted mesic savanna grassland sites with similar structure and physiognomy, yet disparate biogeographic histories.

We found that the grass communities were similar in their phylogenetic response and aspects of their functional response to high fire frequency. Both sites exhibited phylogenetic clustering of highly abundant species in annually burned plots, driven by species of the Andropogoneae, and a narrow range of functional strategies associated with rapid post‐fire regeneration in a high‐light, nitrogen‐limited environment.

By examining multiple facets of diversity in a comparative context, we identified convergent phylogenetic and functional responses to altered fire regimes in two mesic savanna grasslands. Our results highlight the importance of a common filtering process associated with fire that is consistent across grasslands of disparate biogeographic histories and taxonomic representation.
Mechanism of NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Sutterwala Fayyaz S. , Haasken Stefanie , Cassel Suzanne L.
Published: May 2014

Inflammasomes continue to generate interest in an increasing number of disciplines owing to their unique ability to integrate a myriad of signals from pathogen‐ and damage‐associated molecular patterns into a proinflammatory response. This potent caspase‐1–dependent process is capable of activating the innate immune system, initiating pyroptosis (an inflammatory form of programmed cell death), and shaping adaptive immunity. The NLRP3 inflammasome is the most thoroughly studied of the inflammasome complexes that have been described thus far, perhaps owing to its disparate assortment of agonists. This review highlights our current understanding of the mechanisms of both priming and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Dependence on benzodiazepines in patients with panic disorder: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fujii Kazuhito , Uchida Hiroyuki , Suzuki Takefumi , Mimura Masaru
Published: May 2014

Aims

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to examine the prevalence of psychological dependence on benzodiazepines in outpatients with panic disorder and elucidate demographic and clinical characteristics associated with this condition.

Methods

Subjects were eligible if they were outpatients in four clinics in Tokyo, Japan, aged 18 years or older and met the diagnostic criteria for panic disorder according to the ICD‐10. The subjects received the following assessments: the Severity of Dependence Scale, Japanese Version (SDS), the Self‐Report Version of Panic Disorder Severity Scale, Japanese Version (PDSS‐SR), and the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology‐Self Report, Japanese Version. The following information was also collected: age, sex, ethnicity, duration of illness, physical and psychiatric comorbidities, and details of prescribed psychotropic medications.

Results

The data from 51 outpatients showed that 31 patients (60.8%) showed psychological dependence (i.e. a total score of ≥5 in the SDS). The proportion of patients with dependence was significantly lower in remitted patients (i.e. a total score of ≤4 in the PDSS) (44.1%, n = 15/34) than those who were not (94.1%, n = 16/17) (Pearson χ2 = 11.9, P < 0.001). A multiple regression analysis showed that the PDSS scores showed a positive correlation with the SDS total scores (β = 0.60, 95% confidence interval = 0.30–0.90, P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

These findings emphasize the need for enhanced awareness about benzodiazepine dependence in patients and psychiatrists, as well as especially close attention to patients with panic disorder who present severe symptomatology.
Bidirectional associations between family factors and Internet addiction among adolescents in a prospective investigation
Authors: Ko Chih‐Hung , Wang Peng‐Wei , Liu Tai‐Ling , Yen Cheng‐Fang , Chen Cheng‐Sheng , Yen Ju‐Yu
Published: May 2014

Aims

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of family factors on the occurrence of Internet addiction and determining whether Internet addiction could make any difference in the family function.

Methods

A total of 2293 adolescents in grade 7 participated in the study. We assessed their Internet addiction, family function, and family factors with a 1‐year follow up.

Results

In the prospective investigation, inter‐parental conflict predicted the incidence of Internet addiction 1 year later in forward regression analysis, followed by not living with mother and allowance to use Internet more than 2 h per day by parents or caregiver. The inter‐parental conflict and allowance to use Internet more than 2 h per day also predicted the incidence in girls. Not cared for by parents and family APGAR score predicted the incidence of Internet addiction among boys. The prospective investigation demonstrated that the incidence group had more decreased scores on family APGAR than did the non‐addiction group in the 1‐year follow‐up. This effect was significant only among girls.

Conclusions

Inter‐parental conflict and inadequate regulation of unessential Internet use predicted risk of Internet addiction, particularly among adolescent girls. Family intervention to prevent inter‐parental conflict and promote family function and Internet regulation were necessary to prevent Internet addiction. Among adolescents with Internet addiction, it is necessary to pay attention to deterioration of family function, particularly among girls.
Differences in female reproductive success between female and hermaphrodite individuals in the subdioecious shrub Eurya japonica (Theaceae)
Authors: Wang H. , Matsushita M. , Tomaru N. , Nakagawa M.
Published: May 2014

Subdioecy is thought to occupy a transitional position in the gynodioecy–dioecy pathway, explaining one of the evolutionary routes from hermaphroditism to dioecy. Quantifying any female reproductive advantage of females versus hermaphrodites is fundamental to examining the spectrum between subdioecy and dioecy; however, this is challenging, as multiple interacting factors, such as pollen limitation and resource availability, affect plant reproduction. We compared the female reproductive success of females and hermaphrodites via a field experiment in which we hand‐pollinated individuals of the subdioecious shrub Eurya japonica of similar size growing under similar light conditions. Effects of pollen limitation and seed quality were also evaluated through comparing the results of hand‐ and natural‐pollination treatments and performing additional laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Overall, females had higher fruit set and produced heavier fruit and more seeds than hermaphrodites, and these results were more pronounced for hand‐pollinated than for natural‐pollinated plants of both sexes. We also found that seeds naturally produced by females had a higher mean germination rate. These results indicate that females had a pronounced advantage in female reproductive success under conditions of no pollen limitation. The sexual difference in the degree of pollen limitation suggests a pollinator‐mediated interaction, whereas the higher female reproductive success of females even under natural conditions implies that E. japonica is a good model species for elucidating the later stages of the gynodioecy–dioecy pathway.
Enhanced response to music in pregnancy
Authors: Fritz Thomas Hans , Ciupek Marian , Kirkland Ambika , Ihme Klas , Guha Anika , Hoyer Jana , Villringer Arno
Published: May 2014

Given a possible effect of estrogen on the pleasure‐mediating dopaminergic system, musical appreciation in participants whose estrogen levels are naturally elevated during the oral contraceptive cycle and pregnancy has been investigated (n = 32, 15 pregnant, 17 nonpregnant; mean age 27.2). Results show more pronounced blood pressure responses to music in pregnant women. However, estrogen level differences during different phases of oral contraceptive intake did not have any effect, indicating that the observed changes were not related to estrogen. Effects of music on blood pressure were independent of valence, and dissonance elicited the greatest drop in blood pressure. Thus, the enhanced physiological response in pregnant women probably does not reflect a protective mechanism to avoid unpleasantness. Instead, this enhanced response is discussed in terms of a facilitation of prenatal conditioning to acoustical (musical) stimuli.
Why Reflective Equilibrium?II: Following Up onRawls's Comparison of His Own Approach with aKantian Approach
Authors: Eng Svein
Published: May 2014

InA Theory of Justice(1971), John Rawls introduces the concept of “reflective equilibrium.” Although there are innumerable references to and discussions of this concept in the literature, there is, to the present author's knowledge, no discussion of the most important question:Whyreflective equilibrium? In particular, the question arises: Is the method of reflective equilibrium applicable to the choice of this methoditself?Rawls's drawing of parallels between Kant's moral theory and his own suggests that his concept of “reflective equilibrium” is on a par withKant's concept of “transcendental deduction.” Treating these two approaches to justification as paradigmatic,Iconsider their respective merits in meeting the reflexive challenge, i.e., in offering a justification for choice of mode of justification. My enquiry into this topic comprises three parts. In the first part (Eng 2014a),Iraised the issue of the reflexivity of justification and questioned whether the reflexive challenge can be met within the framework ofA Theory of Justice. In this second part,Ishall outline aKantian approach that represents a paradigmatic alternative toRawls.
On the Nature of Norms
Authors: Koller Peter
Published: May 2014

This paper deals with the question of how norms are to be conceived of in order to understand their role as guidelines for human action within various normative orders, particularly in the context of law on the one hand and conventional morality on the other. After some brief remarks on the history of the term “norm,” the author outlines the most significant general features of actually existing social norms, including legal and conventional norms, from which he arrives at two basic requirements on an appropriate conception of such norms: the actuality and the normativity requirements. On this basis, he enters into a critical discussion ofKelsen's highly influential view of norms, arguing that this view is doomed to failure. In the last part of the paper, the author scrutinizes the more promising “practice theory of norms” byH.L.A.Hart, which, in his view, also suffers from some shortcomings, but may be modified in a way that leads to a conception of social norms providing us with a plausible explication of their actual existence and their normative force.
A Realist Sexual Ethics
Authors: Newman Micah
Published: May 2014

A very liberal sexual ethics now holds sway in Western culture, such that mutual consent alone is widely seen as morally legitimizing almost any sexual activity between adults. It is further commonly assumed by both philosophers and nonphilosophers that arguing for some alternative to liberal sexual ethics requires appeal to ethical commands specific to some religious tradition or other. The purpose of this paper is to challenge that assumption by suggesting some purely naturalistic and independently‐plausible premises that can be used to argue for a much more conservative system of sexual ethics than is widely accepted today.
Evaluation of Potassium Levels Before Hemodialysis Access Procedures
Authors: Ross Jamie , DeatherageHand Deborah
Published: May 2014

Few prospective studies have looked at the incidence of hyperkalemia in outpatient hemodialysis access procedures. Our study prospectively evaluated 167 procedures using a preadmit venous blood gas (VBG) and found that 14.3% had moderate or severe hyperkalemia. When the individual procedures were analyzed it was found that 38% of malfunctioning tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) patients, 20% of new start TDC patients, 22% of thrombectomy patients, and only 5.8% of the angioplasty patients had moderate or severe hyperkalemia. We have changed our practice and now monitor the preprocedure potassium in all but the routine angioplasty patients and treat with the protocol described in the body of the article.
Ichnodiversity and ichnoabundance: Revealing depositional trends in a confined turbidite system
Authors: Knaust Dirk , Warchoł Michał , Kane Ian A.
Published: May 2014

Ichnological studies are still in their infancy when it comes to the interpretation of deep‐marine deposits. The Eocene–Oligocene turbidite system of the Grès d'Annot Formation in south‐east France is well‐studied sedimentologically, but its trace‐fossil content is poorly known. Here, an integrated ichnological–sedimentological study is presented from the Annot sub‐basin for the first time, which demonstrates its value for interpreting proximal to distal and axial to marginal trends in confined turbidite systems. A comprehensive trace‐fossil data set was collected from seven outcrops situated in the southern part of the basin. These data are presented following a morphology‐based classification scheme to allow easy recognition and characterization of ichnotaxa. Ichnodiversity and the abundance of ichnotaxa are regarded as important parameters in such interpretations. Instead of simply counting ichnotaxa per outcrop or stratigraphic unit, an equation has been developed in which the ‘ichnoabundance’ (new term) of each counted ichnotaxon is calculated. An exponential growth factor is applied to the increase of the frequency of trace fossils, and is assumed in this equation to better reflect the population dynamics of benthic organisms. A comparison of the solution for pre‐turbidite and post‐turbidite trace‐fossil suites seems to be more suitable for revealing regional and stratigraphic trends compared with conventional approaches. Despite varying size and conditions of the studied outcrops, the results achieved from the Grès d'Annot Formation can help in the reconstruction of sedimentary processes acting in this confined turbidite basin.
Public Policy and Inequalities of Choice and Autonomy
Authors: Burchardt Tania , Evans Martin , Holder Holly
Published: May 2014

Choice by service users has been promoted in social policy across many developed welfare states, often on the grounds that it will incentivize providers to enhance quality and efficiency. But this instrumental motivation for the promotion of choice overlooks the possibility that choice, understood in the deeper sense of autonomy, has intrinsic value, as suggested by egalitarian and capability‐based theories of social justice. This article argues that the narrow motivation of choice policies leads to a focus on services rather than outcomes for individuals and fails to address deep‐seated inequalities in the opportunities people have for real autonomy. We test this concept using newly collected data for the UK. Our empirical findings indicate that disabled people are more likely to experience constrained autonomy in all respects, while being from a low socio‐economic group and/or lacking educational qualifications is a risk factor across several components. We conclude that improving the ‘choice’ agenda for policy requires: (1) adopting a more sophisticated concept of ‘choice’ such as the conceptualization of ‘choice as autonomy’ outlined here; (2) developing a better understanding of existing inequalities in autonomy, such as we begin to explore in our empirical results; and (3) tackling these inequalities through, for example, the removal of obstacles to active decision‐making by providing effective support and advocacy, especially for disabled people, and addressing the major structural barriers – poverty, ill health and geographical inequality – which place significant restrictions on the autonomy of those who are already disadvantaged.
Description of the novel KIR2DL3*028 allele identified in a southern Chinese Han individual
Authors: Deng Z.‐H. , Zhen J.‐X. , Xu Y.‐P. , Yu Q. , Zhao J.
Published: May 2014

The novel KIR2DL3*028 allele differs from 2DL3*00101 at CDS nt 800G>A in exon 7.
Daptomycin is safe and effective for the treatment of gram‐positive cocci infections in solid organ transplantation
Authors: Len O. , Montejo M. , Cervera C. , Fariñas M.C. , Sabé N. , Ramos A. , Cordero E. , Torre‐Cisneros J. , Martín‐Dávila P. , Azanza J.R. , Pahissa A. , Gavaldà J. ,   DAPTOSOT (Daptomycin in Solid Organ Transplantation) Study Group
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Infections caused by resistant gram‐positive cocci (GPC), especially to glycopeptides, are difficult to treat in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients as a result of lower effectiveness and high rates of renal impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of daptomycin in this population.

Methods

Over a 2‐year period (March 2008–2010) in 9 Spanish centers, we enrolled all consecutive recipients who received daptomycin to treat GPC infection. The study included 43 patients, mainly liver and kidney transplant recipients.

Results

The most frequent infections were catheter‐related bacteremia caused by coagulase‐negative staphylococci (23.2%), skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus (11.5%), and intra‐abdominal abscess caused by Enterococcus faecium (20.9%). The daily daptomycin dose was 6 mg/kg in 32 patients (74.4%). On day 7 of daptomycin treatment, median estimated area under the curve was 1251 μg/mL/h. At the end of follow‐up, analytical parameters were similar to the values at the start of therapy. No changes were observed in tacrolimus levels. No patient required discontinuation of daptomycin because of adverse effects. Clinical success at treatment completion was achieved in 37 (86%) patients. Three patients died while on treatment with daptomycin.

Conclusion

In summary, daptomycin was a safe and useful treatment for GPC infection in SOT recipients.
Identifying Determinants of Branch Performances in Agricultural Bank of China: A Spatial Econometric Approach
Authors: Liu Yi‐Cheng , Yang Wen , Mai Chao‐Cheng
Published: May 2014

This paper identifies determinants of branches’ performances in Agricultural Bank of China using the spatial econometric approach. Studies on changes of spatial patterns of a financial industry are scarce, especially at the branch level. This paper is the first attempt to take spatial interdependence and urbanisation effects into account to investigate the determinants of China's bank branches’ performances from 1997 to 2011. We have chosen the world's 10th largest bank, the Agricultural Bank of China, because it discloses the most complete panel data of all. Empirical evidence indicates that spatial effects and urbanisation have large, statistically significant impacts on branches’ performances. It highly and positively corresponds to tertiary industry output (domestic consumption) and urbanisation. This signals that the ABC has evolved from a state‐owned specialised bank to a listed commercial bank.
Intraocular pressure changes in equine athletes during endurance competitions
Authors: Allbaugh Rachel A. , Keil Susan M. , Ou Zhining , Bello Nora M.
Published: May 2014

Objective

To assess intraocular pressure (IOP) in conditioned equine athletes and document changes with exercise. A secondary objective was to assess associations betweenIOPand heart rate, as well as with other subjective physical parameters.

Sample population

Horses were evaluated during 50 mile endurance ride competitions. Data were collected on 69 horses during five different competitions at three different locations with 59 horses ridden once, nine horses ridden in two competitions, and one horse ridden in three competitions for a total of 80 horse‐ride combinations.

Procedures

Intraocular pressure was measured using a TonoVet®tonometer in both eyes of each horse prior to, at two time points during, and immediately after endurance competitions. Heart rates and subjective veterinary scores were recorded on ride cards at each time point.

Results

For horses with shorter finishing times (≤400 min),IOPdecreased by at least 3.1 ± 0.9 mmHg (least square mean estimate ± SEM) from baseline to the end of endurance exercise (P < 0.007), although upward fluctuation was apparent during the ride. For horses with longer finishing times,IOPdid not change significantly from baseline to the end of exercise. Responses also differed between horses awarded ‘Best Condition’ relative to other horses, whereby the latter, but not the former, showed an overall decrease inIOPby end of exercise relative to baseline (estimate decrease of 3.2 ± 0.6 mmHg;P < 0.001). There was no evidence for any association betweenIOPand heart rate, nor betweenIOPand subjective clinical scores.

Conclusions

Intraocular pressure fluctuated in horses during endurance riding competitions.
Canine low‐grade intra‐orbital myxosarcoma: case report
Authors: Campos Cecília B. , Nunes Fernanda C. , Gamba Conrado O. , Damasceno Karine A. , Souza Cristina M. , Campos Liliane C. , Cassali Geovanni D.
Published: May 2014

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate important clinical, morphological, histopathological, histochemical, and immunohistochemical characteristics in order to establish the diagnosis and prognosis of a low‐grade intra‐orbital myxosarcoma.

Animal studied

A mongrel dog presented a 2‐year history of a neoplastic mass behind the right eye.

Results

The neoplasm presented a mesenchymal spindle and stellate cell proliferation with an abundant myxoid matrix, moderate anisocariosis, and a low mitotic index. It stained positive for vimentin, moderately positive for periodic acid‐Schiff, and negative for Gomori trichrome stain and α‐smooth muscle actin.

Conclusions

One year following surgical excision, the patient remains disease free. The histological findings established a diagnosis of a rare canine intra‐orbital low‐grade myxosarcoma.
EFFECTS OF HYDRATION ON SCINTIGRAPHIC GLOMERULAR FILTRATION RATE MEASURED USING INTEGRAL AND PLASMA VOLUME METHODS IN DOGS WITH SUSPECTED RENAL DISEASE
Authors: Westgren Frida , Ley Charles J. , Kampa Naruepon , Lord Peter
Published: May 2014

The current standard scintigraphic method for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in dogs is the integral method, which normalizes renal GFR to body weight. The plasma volume method, that is normalizing GFR to plasma volume, has been reported to be more physiologically correct. The aim of this prospective study was to test the effect of hydration status on GFR measured by these two methods in a group of dogs with suspected renal disease. Eleven dogs were recruited. All dogs underwent standardized scintigraphic examinations before and after 15 ml/kg of fluid was administered intravenously at 5–7 ml/kg/min. Individual kidney GFR estimates (n= 22) were calculated using both methods and a consensus of two observers who were unaware of clinical findings. Individual kidney GFR increased significantly (P= 0.0008) after fluid administration using the integral method and individual kidney GFR using the plasma volume method remained constant. Percentage differences for individual kidney GFR before and after fluid administration were 31.4 ± 58.1% (change ± 95% CI) for the integral method and 0.1 ± 70% (change ± 95% CI) for the plasma volume method. Intravenously administered fluid increased individual kidney GFR from low to normal in 10 of 22 kidneys using the integral method and in 1 of 22 kidneys using the plasma volume method. Findings supported the use of the plasma volume method for scintigraphic calculation of GFR in dogs with suspected renal disease and indicated that errors of kidney status classification may more likely occur when the integral method is used.
Computation of Galois groups of rational polynomials
Authors: Fieker Claus , Klüners Jürgen
Published: May 2014

Computational Galois theory, in particular the problem of computing the Galois group of a given polynomial, is a very old problem. Currently, the best algorithmic solution is Stauduhar’s method. Computationally, one of the key challenges in the application of Stauduhar’s method is to find, for a given pair of groups $H<G$, a $G$-relative $H$-invariant, that is a multivariate polynomial $F$ that is $H$-invariant, but not $G$-invariant. While generic, theoretical methods are known to find such $F$, in general they yield impractical answers. We give a general method for computing invariants of large degree which improves on previous known methods, as well as various special invariants that are derived from the structure of the groups. We then apply our new invariants to the task of computing the Galois groups of polynomials over the rational numbers, resulting in the first practical degree independent algorithm.
Newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes complicated by ketoacidosis and peripheral thrombosis leading to transfemoral amputation
Authors: Jørgensen Line Bisgaard , Skov Ole , Yderstræde Knud
Published: May 2014

Peripheral vascular thromboembolism is a rarely described complication of diabetic ketoacidosis. We report a 41-year-old otherwise healthy man admitted with ketoacidosis and ischaemia of the left foot. The patient was unsuccessfully treated with thromboendarterectomy, and the extremity was ultimately amputated. The patient had no family history of cardiovascular disease, and all blood sample analyses for hypercoagulability were negative. We recommend an increased focus on peripheral thromboembolism, when treating patients with severe ketoacidosis.
A rare presentation of a huge mature mediastinal teratoma with right lung cavitation
Authors: Pattnaik Manoj Kumar , Majhi Paresh Chandra , Nayak Anil Kumar , Senapati Debadutta
Published: May 2014

A school-going child presented with fever and productive cough for a short period, which after laboratory and radiological survey was diagnosed as mediastinal teratoma with lung cavitation. Preoperatively the exact cause of lung pathology could not be established, although more common causes prevalent in this zone such as, tuberculosis and lung abscess were excluded. Surgical treatment was planned and excision of the mediastinal mass with segmentectomy of the right-upper lobe carried out through median sternotomy. Mature teratoma is the most common primary germ cell tumour of the mediastinum accounting for 60–70% of all mediastinal germ cell tumours. On very rare occasions it involves the adjacent lung, usually the left lung, producing secondary changes inviting suspicion of a separate lung pathology. Here we present a rare case of a huge mature mediastinal teratoma with secondary right lung cavitation.
Gemella morbillorumendocarditis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a rare organism causing a large vegetation and abscess in an uncommon setting
Authors: Kolhari Vikram B , Kumar V Vinoth , Agrawal Navin , Prakash Sadashivappa Surhonne
Published: May 2014

Mitral valve endocarditis complicating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is rare especially in the absence of significant mitral regurgitation. The occurrence of large vegetation and an abscess formation is even rarer. Endocarditis occurs predominantly on the left ventricular aspect of the anterior mitral leaflet. We report a case of a 34-year-old woman with asymptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy who developed mitral valve endocarditis with large vegetation and subsequently an abscess caused by a rare organismGemella morbillorum, following dental extraction. The patient underwent antibacterial therapy followed by successful mitral valve replacement for severe mitral regurgitation and her postoperative course has been asymptomatic so far. This case is unique in describing endocarditis by a rare organism as a cause of large vegetation and an abscess on an unusual site on the mitral valve leaflet without predisposition of haemodynamically significant mitral regurgitation and illustrates the potential lifesaving role of timely intervention.
Evidence of Atomic Dislocation Loops Crystal Lattice Flaws Causing EOS/ESD Damage in 〈100〉 Silicon
Authors: Bundhoo Fayik
Published: May 2014

Crystalline lattice point defects in integrated circuit can lay hidden below the silicon surface exist in the atomic lattice point structure or as interstitials. Initially they may not necessary represent an electrical failure but can act as seeds for electrical degradation in a time period. This paper study one category of Silicon defect “Dislocation loops” that initially were dormant then propagated under the silicon surface in the crystal lattice structure causing catastrophic EOS damage. This is particularly true if the crystalline defect exists near or at the boundary of PN junctions. This paper present evidence of dormant crystalline lattice defects in the form of crystalline dislocation loops degrading to EOS. Over a period of time under normal operation life of the part these dislocation loops can trigger EOS/ESD events.
Using the Evolutionary Selection Principle in Selective Area Growth to Achieve Single-Crystalline GaN on SiO2
Authors: Leung Benjamin , Song Jie , Zhang Yu , Tsai Miao-Chan , Yuan Ge , Han Jung
Published: May 2014

Conventional epitaxial techniques requires single crystalline substrates to form semiconductor material of desired material quality for device applications. The use of amorphous substrates, in many applications, provides an opportunity to consider new materials and designs, which can fundamentally alter the performance, functionality and/or cost limitations of many optoelectronic devices. Here, a growth process is described to achieve single crystalline GaN material on amorphous SiO2. The evolutionary selection principle in crystal growth is the basis of this technique, and the mechanism is described and analyzed in detail. It is expected that this process can be extended to other semiconductor and substrate combinations, allowing heterogenous integration with functional substrates to produce new classes of semiconductor devices.
A Novel Lung Capacity Model to Virtually Aid in Breath Regulation
Authors: Abushakra Ahmad , Faezipour Miad
Published: May 2014

Virtual reality technology is an attractive means for medical simulations and treatment, especially for patients with cancer. The overall goal of this research is to introduce a conceptual virtual environment with real-world dynamic contents to develop an effective breathing exercise tool that will aid in regulating breathing movements and eventually increase the oxygen intake of users/patients.

This study focuses on an essential component of the virtual reality therapy framework. The work introduces a novel automated approach towards computing the lung capacity. The overall objective is to aid lung cancer patients, or those with breathing disorders regulate their breath through real-time analysis of respiration movements using a smart-phone.

Traditionally, lung cancer patients and those with certain breathing disorders use a spirometer device to measure their lung capacity. However, accurate measurements using the spirometer requires some sort of training and adjustment, which may be difficult for certain groups of patients, especially the elderly.

In this paper, a methodology is proposed to process the recorded acoustic signal of respiration using a microphone, and a model is introduced to estimate the lung size with a high degree of accuracy. To estimate the lung capacity, Voice-Activity-Detection (VAD) is fine-tuned and applied to the acoustic signal of respiration to split the signal into voice and silence phases. The average time duration and energy of the breathing phases (inhale and exhale voice phases) are computed to derive the lung capacity. The signal processing relies on accurate signal segmentation and signal energy computation of the breathing cycles. This model of using a microphone and the acoustic signal of respiration to estimate lung capacity yields a high degree of accuracy, exceeding 85%.

In the framework, lung capacity is computed simultaneously as the patient is breathing in real time. Consequently, the patient will be motivated to take the next coming breath deeply if the previous one was not sufficient, thus, virtually regulating his/her own breath.

The results indicate that the proposed model is highly accurate and effective for estimating lung capacity. The potential outcome of this research is that the intended virtual reality framework, if fully implemented and integrated with a high quality animated application on a smart-phone, would directly aid individuals, especially lung cancer patients, regulate their breath by having a daily basis estimate of their lung size using a hand-held device at home.
A Power Management Integrated System for Biomass-based Marine Sediment Energy Harvesting
Authors: Huang Guoxian , Umaz Ridvan , Karra Udayarka , Li Baikun , Wang Lei
Published: May 2014

This paper presents the design of an underwater energy harvesting system, which would provide persistent and sustainable power supply for remote underwater sensing and surveillance devices. The system consists of Distributed Benthic Microbial Fuel Cell (DBMFC) and the associated power management integrated circuit. The DBMFC exploits bacterial metabolic activities associated with the redox reaction to generate electrical energy directly from biodegradable substrates. The power management circuit collects the energy harvested by the DBMFC and boosts the output voltage to a sufficient and stable level for loads such as sensor devices. Simulation results of the power management system in a 90nm CMOS process demonstrate the expected functions and the significant improvement in energy conversion efficiency.
ZNS/ZNMGSETE/ZNS II-VI Energy Barrier for INGAAS Substrates
Authors: Suarez Ernesto , Chan Pik-Yiu , Gogna Mukesh , Ayers John E , Heller Evan , Jain Faquir
Published: May 2014

InGaAs high mobility transistors presently provide the fastest speeds. As InGaAs nonvolatile memory field effect transistors (NVMFETs) are scaled down past 22 nm gate width, threshold voltage variation becomes a limiting factor. Replacing the amorphous SiO 2 or HfO 2 with a heteroepitaxial barrier stack the threshold voltage can be stabilized by minimizing the interface charge at the barrier-channel interface. The floating gate is comprised of individually germanium-oxide cladded germanium quantum dots. The tunneling layer is comprised of a quantum well stack of ZnSe / ZnS / ZnMgSeTe / ZnS / ZnSe . The magnesium incorporation increases the the energy barrier but introduces dislocation that can leak charge. The ZnS and ZnSe layers have a lower bandgap but a lower dislocation density to assist with gate leakage prevention. We present simulation and experimental C-V data on InGaAs FET and II-VI tunneling layer on an InGaAs substrate respectively.
Passing the Einstein–Rosen bridge
Authors: Katanaev M. O.
Published: May 2014

A test particle moving along geodesic line in a spacetime has three physical propagating degrees of freedom and one unphysical gauge degree. We relax the requirement of geodesic completeness of a spacetime. Instead, we require test particles trajectories to be smooth and complete only for physical degrees of freedom. Test particles trajectories for Einstein–Rosen bridge are proved to be smooth and complete in the physical sector, and particles can freely penetrate the bridge in both directions.
Accelerators for charged particle therapy: PAMELA and related issues
Authors: Peach Ken
Published: May 2014

Cancer is a dreadful disease that will affect one in three people at some point in their life; radiotherapy is used in more than half of all cancer treatment, and contributes about 40% to the successful treatment of cancer. Charged Particle Therapy uses protons and other light ions to deliver the lethal dose to the tumor while being relatively sparing of healthy tissue and, because of the finite range of the particles, is able to avoid giving any dose to vital organs. While there are adequate technologies currently available to deliver the required energies and fluxes, the two main technologies (cyclotrons and synchrotrons) have limitations. PAMELA (the Particle Accelerator for MEdicaLApplications) uses the newly-developed non-scaling Fixed Field Alternating Gradient accelerator concepts to deliver therapeutically relevant beams. The status of the development of the PAMELA conceptual design is discussed.