bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Case of Lutembacher’s Syndrome
Authors: . Shivam , Sharma Santosh , Rao Bangam Rajendra Prasad , Gourab Gama , Mohanty Lalatendu
Published: July 2024

Lutembacher’s syndrome, a rare cardiac condition characterised by the combination of congenital Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) and acquired mitral stenosis, presents significant clinical challenges. Hereby, the authors present a case report of a 28-year-old female exhibiting mild symptoms, including dysapnoea, intermittent palpitations, and lower limb swelling. Examination revealed characteristic findings, including elevated jugular venous pressure, cardiomegaly, and murmurs indicative of mitral stenosis and tricuspid regurgitation. Transthoracic echocardiography confirmed the presence of ASD and moderate mitral stenosis. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with Lutembacher’s syndrome. Prompt initiation of rheumatic heart disease prophylaxis and diuretics led to symptomatic improvement. The present case underscores the need for early recognition and intervention in Lutembacher’s syndrome, particularly in regions with high rates of rheumatic heart disease. Future research should focus on optimising treatment strategies to enhance patient outcomes. Sharing such cases contributes to a deeper understanding of this complex condition and advocates for improved management approaches.
Toxicity and Local-Regional Control of Two Fractionation Schedules with Concurrent Chemotherapy and Intraluminal Brachytherapy for Oesophageal Carcinoma: A Pilot Study
Authors: Aqueel MD , Yadav Dev Kumar , Yadav Arun Kumar , Kesarwani Radha , Prasad SN
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Oesophageal cancer is the seventh most common cancer worldwide and the sixth highest cause of cancer-related mortality. Radiation plays an important role in the multimodality treatment of carcinoma of the oesophagus. Aim: To compare locoregional control and toxicity of two External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) fractionation schedules of concurrent chemoradiotherapy and high-dose intraluminal brachytherapy in patients with oesophageal carcinoma at a single institute. Materials and Methods: The present study was a pilot study including a total of 33 participants with histologically confirmed oesophageal cancer. Patients were prospectively randomised into two groups. Arm I: EBRT with a total dose of 46 Gy delivered in 23 fractions at a rate of 2 Gy per fraction over 4.3 weeks, along with Concurrent Injection of Cisplatin (CDDP) 100 mg/m2 on days 1 and 22, followed by Intraluminal Radiation Therapy (ILRT) with 6 Gy per session weekly. Arm II: EBRT with a total dose of 30 Gy delivered in 10 fractions at a rate of 3 Gy per fraction over two weeks and CDDP 100 mg/m2 on day 1 only. The primary endpoint of this study was to compare the locoregional response and toxicities (both acute and late) in the two arms at the end of radiotherapy and six months. Results: At the end of the two-month follow-up, no statistically significant difference was found in the response between the two arms (p-value=0.2697). Dysphagia relief was comparable in both arms; however, this difference was not statistically significant (p-value=0.9235). Conclusion: The responses in both arms were comparable, and further randomised trials with larger sample sizes should be encouraged.
Key Determinants and Consequences of Brand Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Rahmanabadi Mehran , Asgarnezhad Nouri Bagher , Bashokouh Mohammad , Hamidzadeh Arbabi Alireza
Published: July 2024

Today's competitive conditions governing the banking industry have led banks to use new tools to maintain and enhance their competitive advantage. In this regard, brands and employee behaviors are among the most critical factors in creating a competitive advantage. Meanwhile, service organizations such as banks have realized the importance of these factors in increasing competitive advantages. This study aims to provide a model of the critical determinants and consequences of brand citizenship behavior. Brand Citizenship Behavior (BCB) is among the concepts that seek to find ways to improve a brand's position in the market, and it is defined as the voluntary behaviors of employees to achieve the goals of the organization's brand. This research's statistical population is Day Bank employees in Tehran, of which 253 were selected as samples using the Cochran formula and the cluster random sampling method. The data were collected using a standard questionnaire. In order to determine validity, structural, convergent, and divergent methods were used. Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability were used to investigate the reliability. Using Smart-PLS software, data analysis, and hypothesis testing were done through structural equation modeling. The results indicate that internal brand management significantly affects brand citizenship behavior. Brand citizenship behavior significantly affects brand strength, commitment, and pride. The mediating role of brand citizenship behavior in the relationship between internal brand management and brand strength was also confirmed. However, its mediating role in the relationship between internal brand management and brand commitment and the relationship between internal brand management and brand pride was not confirmed.
A Ten-Year Review of Neonatal Tetanus Seen in a Tertiary Health Facility in Sokoto North-Western Nigeria: Before and During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: A Adamu , BO Onankpa , M Omar , KO Isezuo , FB Jiya , YI Olabisi , UM Waziri , UM Ango , AI Rufai
Published: July 2024

Background: Neonatal tetanus (NNT) remains among the leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality among neonates in Nigeria. Nigeria remains among the countries carrying the global NNT burden. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports have predicted that the pandemic will significantly impact on the health system globally, and low-resource countries where vaccination programs fared even worse are likely to see a surge in vaccine-preventable diseases during and after COVID-19 pandemic.
Aims: To determine the prevalence, yearly trend, risk factors, and outcome of NNT cases seen in the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto, Nigeria over a ten year period: before and during COVID-19 pandemic.
 Methods: This was a retrospective study. Data was retrieved from all the case notes of neonates admitted with a clinical diagnosis of NNT into the SCBU of the UDUTH, Sokoto from 1st January, 2013 to 31st December, 2022. The data obtained was analyzed using SPSS version 21.
Results: During the 10 years period of the study, NNT accounted for 0.4% of admissions. The majority 15(57.0%) of the mothers of the neonates with NNT were from rural areas, 15(56.0%) had no antenatal care (ANC), and only 10(37.0%) of the mothers received vaccination against tetanus. All the mothers were from lower socio-economic classes. Most 17(63.0%) of the neonates were delivered at home by traditional birth attendants. The umbilical cord was the portal of entry in 26(96.0%) of cases, while 1(4.0%) followed traditional uvulectomy. Cord care was done using hot water fermentation in more than half of the neonates 17(63.0%), while only 1(4.0%) of the mothers used chlorhexidine gel for cord care. The case- fatality rate was 6(22.0%). the yearly trend showed an increased incidence of NNT admissions in 2022.
Conclusion: The study showed that NNT is still a public health problem, with an increased scourge during the COVID-19 pandemic, which can be tackled through health education of mothers via mass media, improving the quality and access to ANC services, tetanus toxoid vaccination, hospital delivery and avoidance of traditional uvulectomy particularly in rural areas by the Sokoto state government. Antenatal and vaccination services should be given priority in response to future pandemics to sustain gains of the SDG 3.
Kernel Trait and Genetic Variability Analysis in BC2F1 Maize Lines Derived from Zea nicaraguensis Crosses
Authors: V. Senthilkumar , Garkoti Priya , S. Varalakshmi , Naresh Thotla , Singh Narendra Kumar
Published: July 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important cereal crop with significant applications in food, feed and industrial applications. This study aimed to increase maize yield and quality by evaluating core traits in introgressed Zea nicaraguensis individual’s recipients of LM13 and LM14 maize inbred lines. Kernel type, shape, color, dimensions and weight were assessed in 35 BC2F1 plants using standardized descriptor guidelines. Analysis of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, heritability and genetic progress showed significant genetic diversity and the influence of environmental factors. Significant sources of variability highlighted by principal component analysis were kernel color, endosperm color, and 100-seed weight. High heritability and genetic progress in kernel color and length-to-width ratio indicate great selection potential. Reintroducing the diversity lost in cultivated maize inherent in Zea nicaraguensis has the potential to improve both its agronomic performance and quality. Future research should aim to identify genetic markers and examine the interaction between genetic and environmental influences to optimize maize varieties for specific environments and consumer preferences, ultimately contributing to global food security and agricultural sustainability.
Evaluation of Medium Maturity Pigeonpea Genotypes for Resistance to Pod Borer Complex
Authors: Patel Mukesh Kumar , Khandekar Chetna , Kashyap Sushmita , Salame Lavkush , Singh Vikas
Published: July 2024

The present investigation was conducted during Kharif 2022-23 at the experimental area of Department of Entomology, AICRP on Pigeonpea, Research cum Instructional Farm, IGKV, Raipur, (C.G.). The aim of the study was to screen the different pigeonpea genotypes against pod borer complex. The different pigeonpea genotypes were screened against pod borer complex which showed significant difference between tested genotypes on different parameters viz., percent pod damage and grain yield. Genotypes CG Arhar-2 (19 per cent), showed least affected by pod borers and RPS-15-50 (40.00 %) was found most affected by pod borers. The highest grain yield was observed in CG Arhar-2 (1927.78 kg/ha) and lowest grain yield was observed in RPS-15-21 (875 kg/ha)).
Generation of Spatially Aligned Collagen Fiber Networks Through Microtransfer Molding
Authors: Naik Nisarga , Caves Jeffrey , Chaikof Elliot L. , Allen Mark G.
Published: August 2013

The unique biomechanical properties of native tissue are governed by the organization and composition of integrated collagen and elastin networks. An approach for fabricating spatially aligned, fiber‐reinforced composites with adjustable collagen fiber dimensions, layouts, and distribution within an elastin‐like protein matrix yielding a biocomposite with controllable mechanical responses is reported. Microtransfer molding is employed for the fabrication of hollow and solid collagen fibers with straight or crimped fiber geometries. Collagen fibers (width: 2–50 μm, thickness: 300 nm to 3 μm) exhibit a Young’s modulus of 126 ± 61 MPa and an ultimate tensile strength of 7 ± 3.2 MPa. As fiber networks within composite structures, straight fiber layouts display orthotropic responses with Young’s modulus ranging from 0.95 ± 0.35 to 10.4 ± 0.5 MPa and tensile strength from 0.22 ± 0.08 to 0.87 ± 0.5 MPa with increasing fraction of collagen fibers (1–10%, v/v). In contrast, composites based on crimped fiber layouts exhibit strain‐dependent stiffness with an increase in Young’s modulus from 0.7 ± 0.14 MPa to 3.15 ± 0.49 MPa, at a specific transition strain. Through controlling the microstructure of engineered collagen fiber networks, a facile means is established to control macroscale mechanical responses of composite protein‐based materials.
Selectivity in Bone Targeting with Multivalent Dendritic Polyanion Dye Conjugates
Authors: Gröger Dominic , Kerschnitzki Michael , Weinhart Marie , Reimann Sabine , Schneider Tobias , Kohl Benjamin , Wagermaier Wolfgang , Schulze‐Tanzil Gundula , Fratzl Peter , Haag Rainer
Published: August 2013

Targeting bone with anionic macromolecules is a potent approach for the development of novel diagnostics and therapeutics for bone related diseases. A highly efficient modular synthesis of dendritic polyglycerol (dPG) polyanion dye conjugates, namely, sulfates, sulfonates, carboxylates, phosphates, phosphonates, and bisphosphonates via click chemistry is presented. By investigating the microarchitecture of stained bone sections with confocal laser scanning microscopy, the bisphosphonate, phosphonate, and phosphate functionalized polymers are identified as strongly penetrating compounds, whereas sulfates, sulfonates, and carboxylates reveal a weaker binding to hydroxyapatite (HA) but a more pronounced affinity toward collagen. In a quantitative HA binding assay, the affinity of the dPG sulfonate, sulfate, and carboxylate toward collagen and the exceptional high HA affinity of the phosphorous containing polyelectrolytes are validated. This shows the potential of dendritic polyphosphates and phosphonates as alternatives to the commonly employed bisphosphonate modification. In cytotoxicity studies with murine fibroblasts, the conjugates have no significant effect on the cell viability at 10‐5m. All polyanions are taken up into the cells within 24 h. The presented synthetic approach allows versatile extensions for preparing conjugates for selective bone imaging applications, tissue engineering, and drug delivery.
Nonendocytic Delivery of Lipoplex Nanoparticles into Living Cells Using Nanochannel Electroporation
Authors: Boukany Pouyan E. , Wu Yun , Zhao Xi , Kwak Kwang J. , Glazer Piotr J. , Leong Kam , Lee L. James
Published: August 2013

The delivery of biomolecules, including siRNAs (≈21 bp) and large plasmids (≈10 kbp), into living cells holds a great promise for therapeutic and research applications. Lipoplex nanoparticles are popular nanocarriers for gene delivery. In conventional transfection methods, the cellular uptake of lipoplex nanoparticels occurs through the endocytosis process. The entrapment of lipoplex nanoparticles into endocytic vesicle is a major barrier in achieving efficient gene silencing and expression. Here, a novel nanochannel electroporation (NEP) method is employed to facilitate the cellular uptake and release of siRNAs/DNAs from lipoplexes. First, it is demonstrated that in a NEP device, lipoplex nanoparticles can be injected directly into the cell cytoplasm within several seconds. Specifically, it is found that lipoplexes containing MCL‐1 siRNA delivered by NEP can more efficiently down‐regulate the expression of MCL‐1 mRNA in A549 cancer cells than conventional transfection. Quantum dot‐mediated Förster resonance energy transfer (QD‐FRET) reveals that lipoplexes delivered via NEP can directly release siRNA in the cytoplasm without going through the endocytosis route, which unravels the responsible mechanism for efficient gene delivery. Furthermore, the advantage of combining NEP with lipoplex nanoparticles by the successful delivery of large plasmids (pCAG2LMKOSimO, 13 kbp) into CHO cells is demonstrated.
Phenyliodine Diacetate‐Mediatedpara‐Functionalizations of Amido‐ and Amino‐Substituted [2.2]Paracyclophanes
Authors: Schaal (née Lennartz) Petra , Baars Hannah , Raabe Gerhard , Atodiresei Iuliana , Bolm Carsten
Published: August 2013

The reaction ofN‐[2.2]paracyclophanyl‐substituted amides or amines with phenyliodine diacetate (PIDA) and protic nucleophiles affords mixedpara‐substituted [2.2]paracyclophane derivatives in moderate to good yields. As protic nucleophiles carboxylic acids and alcohols as well as pyridine hydrobromide can be used. 4‐Hydroxy[2.2]paracyclophane reacts in an analogous manner.

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Characterization of atypical language activation patterns in focal epilepsy
Authors: Berl Madison M. , Zimmaro Lauren A. , Khan Omar I. , Dustin Irene , Ritzl Eva , Duke Elizabeth S. , Sepeta Leigh N. , Sato Susumu , Theodore William H. , Gaillard William D.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Functional magnetic resonance imaging is sensitive to the variation in language network patterns. Large populations are needed to rigorously assess atypical patterns, which, even in neurological populations, are a minority.

Methods

We studied 220 patients with focal epilepsy and 118 healthy volunteers who performed an auditory description decision task. We compared a data‐driven hierarchical clustering approach to the commonly used a priori laterality index (LI) threshold (LI < 0.20 as atypical) to classify language patterns within frontal and temporal regions of interest. We explored (n = 128) whether IQ varied with different language activation patterns.

Results

The rate of atypical language among healthy volunteers (2.5%) and patients (24.5%) agreed with previous studies; however, we found 6 patterns of atypical language: a symmetrically bilateral, 2 unilaterally crossed, and 3 right dominant patterns. There was high agreement between classification methods, yet the cluster analysis revealed novel correlations with clinical features. Beyond the established association of left‐handedness, early seizure onset, and vascular pathology with atypical language, cluster analysis identified an association of handedness with frontal lateralization, early seizure onset with temporal lateralization, and left hemisphere focus with a unilateral right pattern. Intelligence quotient was not significantly different among patterns.

Interpretation

Language dominance is a continuum; however, our results demonstrate meaningful thresholds in classifying laterality. Atypical language patterns are less frequent but more variable than typical language patterns, posing challenges for accurate presurgical planning. Language dominance should be assessed on a regional rather than hemispheric basis, and clinical characteristics should inform evaluation of atypical language dominance. Reorganization of language is not uniformly detrimental to language functioning. ANN NEUROL 2014;75:33–42
Phylogenetic and epidemiologic evidence of multiyear incubation in human rabies
Authors: Boland Torrey A. , McGuone Declan , Jindal Jenelle , Rocha Marcelo , Cumming Melissa , Rupprecht Charles E. , Barbosa Taciana Fernandes Souza , de Novaes Oliveira Rafael , Chu Catherine J. , Cole Andrew J. , Kotait Ivanete , Kuzmina Natalia A. , Yager Pamela A. , Kuzmin Ivan V. , Hedley‐Whyte E. Tessa , Brown Catherine M. , Rosenthal Eric S.
Published: August 2013

Eight years after emigrating from Brazil, an otherwise healthy man developed rabies. An exposure prior to immigration was reported. Genetic analysis revealed a canine rabies virus variant found only in the patient's home country, and the patient had not traveled internationally since immigrating to the United States. We describe how epidemiological, phylogenetic, and viral sequencing data provided confirmation that rabies encephalomyelitis may present after a long, multiyear incubation period, a consideration that previously has been hypothesized without the ability to exclude a more recent exposure. Accordingly, rabies should be considered in the diagnosis of any acute encephalitis, myelitis, or encephalomyelitis. ANN NEUROL 2014;75:155–160
Zinc(II)‐triflate as catalyst precursor for ring‐closing depolymerization of end‐of‐life polytetrahydrofuran to produce tetrahydrofuran
Authors: Enthaler Stephan
Published: August 2013

The recycling of polymers continues to be an important subject for a greener and sustainable society. Especially, the deconstruction of end‐of‐life polymers to monomers creates a feedstock for new high‐quality polymeric materials and contributes to conserve resources and allow an efficient waste‐managing system. In this study, zinc(II)‐triflate as catalyst precursor has been examined in detail In the ring‐closing depolymerization of end‐of‐life polytetrahydrofuran (PolyTHF) to generate tetrahydrofuran (THF). Noteworthy, the produced THF can be a suitable starting material for new polymeric materials. With the cheap and abundant Zn(OTf)2 (1.0 mol %) as precatalyst excellent yields (up to 95%) were feasible for the depolymerization of PolyTHF at 180°C within 30 min. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39791.
All starch nanocomposite coating for barrier material
Authors: LeCorre Déborah , Dufresne Alain , Rueff Martine , Khelifi Bertine , Bras Julien
Published: August 2013

Starch nanocrystals (SNC) are nanofillers of growing interest for barrier and mechanical improvement of bio‐based polymers. However, their potential use as fillers for organic coating material of industrial packaging has never been investigated. In this study, SNC processability in coating is assessed and the final properties of coated papers are measured. Coating colors composed of plasticized starch show higher Brookfield viscosity when filled with SNC even with the addition of water but rod‐coating is still possible. These diluted water‐based coatings induce paper wetting and surface crackling issues during drying as proved by drying process analysis. However no gelatinization of the SNC is observed whichever the type of drying. SNC compensate some of the water induced loss of mechanical properties of the base paper and decrease the water vapor permeability (WVP) up to 40% compared with the base paper. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 39826.
Almost Passivity and Simple Adaptive Control in Discrete‐Time Systems
Authors: Barkana Itzhak , Rusnak Ilan , Weiss Haim
Published: August 2013

Successful implementations of simple direct adaptive control techniques in various domains of application have been presented over the last two decades in the technical literature. The theoretical background concerning basic conditions needed for stability of the controller and the open questions relating the convergence of the adaptive gains have been clarified recently, yet only for the continuous‐time algorithms. Apparently, asymptotic tracking in discrete time systems has been possible only with step input commands and the scope of the so called “almost strictly positive real (ASPR)” condition has also remained not clear. This paper expands the feasibility of discrete simple adaptive control methodology to include any desired input commands and almost all real‐world systems. The proofs of stability are also rigorously revised to solve the ultimate adaptive gain values question that has remained open until now. Finally, a complex algebraic loop that seemed to be inherent in discrete ASPR systems and might prevent the use of passivity properties in discrete systems has also been eliminated.
Porcine circovirus (PCV) removal by Q sepharose fast flow chromatography
Authors: Yang Bin , Wang Hua , Ho Cintia , Lester Philip , Chen Qi , Neske Florian , Baylis Sally A. , Blümel Johannes
Published: August 2013

The recently discovered contamination of oral rotavirus vaccines led to exposure of millions of infants to porcine circovirus (PCV). PCV was not detected by conventional virus screening tests. Regulatory agencies expect exclusion of adventitious viruses from biological products. Therefore, methods for inactivation/removal of viruses have to be implemented as an additional safety barrier whenever feasible. However, inactivation or removal of PCV is difficult. PCV is highly resistant to widely used physicochemical inactivation procedures. Circoviruses such as PCV are the smallest viruses known and are not expected to be effectively removed by currently‐used virus filters due to the small size of the circovirus particles. Anion exchange chromatography such as Q Sepharose® Fast Flow (QSFF) has been shown to effectively remove a range of viruses including parvoviruses. In this study, we investigated PCV1 removal by virus filtration and by QSFF chromatography. As expected, PCV1 could not be effectively removed by virus filtration. However, PCV1 could be effectively removed by QSFF as used during the purification of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and a log10 reduction value (LRV) of 4.12 was obtained. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:1464–1471, 2013
Effect of Bcl‐xL overexpression on lactate metabolism in chinese hamster ovary cells producing antibody
Authors: Ha Tae Kwang , Jeon Min Kyoung , Yu Da young , Lee Gyun Min
Published: August 2013

Previously, overexpression of anti‐apoptotic proteins, such as E1B‐19K and Aven, was reported to alter lactate metabolism of CHO cells in culture. To investigate the effect of Bcl‐xL, a well‐known anti‐apoptotic protein, on lactate metabolism of recombinant CHO (rCHO) cells, two antibody‐producing rCHO cell lines with regulated Bcl‐xL overexpression (CS13*‐0.02‐off‐Bcl‐xL and CS13*‐1.00‐off‐Bcl‐xL) were established using the Tet‐off system. When cells were cultivated without Bcl‐xL overexpression, the specific lactate production rate (qLac) of CS13*‐0.02‐off‐Bcl‐xL and CS13*‐1.00‐off‐Bcl‐xL were 7.32 ± 0.37 and 6.78 ± 0.56 pmol/cell/day, respectively. Bcl‐xL overexpression, in the absence of doxycycline, did not affect the qLac of either cell line, though it enhanced the viability during cultures. Furthermore, activities of the enzymes related to glucose and lactate metabolism, such as hexokinase, glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenases, and alanine aminotransferase, were not affected by Bcl‐xL overexpression either. Taken together, Bcl‐xL overexpression showed no significant effect on the lactate metabolism of rCHO cells. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:1594–1598, 2013
Greenhouse Gas Emission and Energy Consumption in Wastewater Treatment Plants: Impact of Operating Parameters
Authors: Ashrafi Omid , Yerushalmi Laleh , Haghighat Fariborz
Published: August 2013

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and energy consumption were estimated in wastewater treatment plants using an elaborate mathematical model that included coagulation/flocculation, anaerobic digester, nitrification/denitrification, and biogas recovery. The examined treatment systems used aerobic, anaerobic, and hybrid biological processes. The impact of pertinent operating parameters including reactor temperature, solid retention time (SRT), primary clarifier underflow rate, and biochemical oxygen demand concentration on GHG emission and energy consumption were investigated, leading to the identification of controlling operating parameters and adequate strategies to reduce GHG emission and energy consumption. The overall GHG emission was 3152, 6051, and 6541 kg CO2‐equivalent/day, while the estimated energy consumption amounted to 4028, 2017, and 3084 MJ/day in the three examined systems, respectively. Parametric studies showed that the best strategy to reduce GHG emission and energy consumption would result from 12% increase in the bioreactor temperature in the aerobic system, 10% increase of the bioreactor temperature and five days increase of SRT in the anaerobic system, and 10% increase of temperature and five days reduction of SRT in the anaerobic bioreactor of the hybrid system. Additional reductions in the GHG emission and energy consumption would result from 50% increase of the primary clarifier underflow rate.
A fine‐grained thread‐aware management policy for shared caches
Authors: Rolán Dyer , Andrade Diego , Fraguela Basilio B. , Doallo Ramón
Published: August 2013

Two of the main sources of inefficiency in current caches are the non‐uniform distribution of the memory accesses across the cache sets, which causes misses due to the mapping restrictions of non fully associative caches and the access patterns with little locality that degrade the performance of caches under the traditional least recently used. replacement policy. This paper proposes a technique to tackle in a coordinated way both kinds of problems in the context of chip multiprocessors, whose last level caches can be shared by threads with different patterns of locality. Our proposal, called thread‐aware mapping and replacement miss reduction (TAMR2) policy, tracks the behavior of each thread in each set in order to decide the appropriate combination of policies to deal with these problems. Despite its small overhead, TAMR2 achieved in our experiments average power consumption and memory latency reductions of 10% and 12%, respectively, resulting in an average throughput improvement of 5.6%, relative to a traditional cache design using four cores. TAMR2 also outperformed many recent related approaches in the field. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Space vector pulse‐width modulation for single‐phase full‐bridge Z‐source inverter
Authors: Yu Kun , Zhao Jiyun , Tseng K. J. , Luo Fang Lin , Zhu Miao
Published: August 2013

The space vector pulse‐width‐modulation technique is extensively applied in the three‐phase power electronics circuits because of its easy digital implementation and wide linear modulation range features. However, the attempt of this technique for the single‐phase Z‐source inverter has seldom been reported because of its unique topology and operational characteristics. In this paper, based on an in‐depth mathematical derivation and theoretical explanation, the space vector pulse‐width‐modulation principles have been discussed in detail. Various implementation schemes are demonstrated, and a comparison study for selected switching patterns is conducted. In addition, the theoretical analysis is validated by both the simulation and experimental results. This work will be helpful for understanding the space vector pulse‐width‐modulation concept and modulation techniques of the single‐phase full‐bridge Z‐source inverters. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanisms of muscle growth and atrophy in mammals and Drosophila
Authors: Piccirillo Rosanna , Demontis Fabio , Perrimon Norbert , Goldberg Alfred L.
Published: August 2013

Background: The loss of skeletal muscle mass (atrophy) that accompanies disuse and systemic diseases is highly debilitating. Although the pathogenesis of this condition has been primarily studied in mammals, Drosophila is emerging as an attractive system to investigate some of the mechanisms involved in muscle growth and atrophy. Results: In this review, we highlight the outstanding unsolved questions that may benefit from a combination of studies in both flies and mammals. In particular, we discuss how different environmental stimuli and signaling pathways influence muscle mass and strength and how a variety of disease states can cause muscle wasting. Conclusions: Studies in Drosophila and mammals should help identify molecular targets for the treatment of muscle wasting in humans. Developmental Dynamics 243:201–215, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selective accumulation of germ‐line associated gene products in early development of the sea star and distinct differences from germ‐line development in the sea urchin
Authors: Fresques Tara , Zazueta‐Novoa Vanesa , Reich Adrian , Wessel Gary M.
Published: August 2013

Background: Echinodermata is a diverse phylum, a sister group to chordates, and contains diverse organisms that may be useful to understand varied mechanisms of germ‐line specification. Results: We tested 23 genes in development of the sea star Patiria miniata that fall into five categories: (1) Conserved germ‐line factors; (2) Genes involved in the inductive mechanism of germ‐line specification; (3) Germ‐line associated genes; (4) Molecules involved in left–right asymmetry; and (5) Genes involved in regulation and maintenance of the genome during early embryogenesis. Overall, our results support the contention that the posterior enterocoel is a source of the germ line in the sea star P. miniata. Conclusions: The germ line in this organism appears to be specified late in embryogenesis, and in a pattern more consistent with inductive interactions amongst cells. This is distinct from the mechanism seen in sea urchins, a close relative of the sea star clad. We propose that P. miniata may serve as a valuable model to study inductive mechanisms of germ‐cell specification and when compared with germ‐line formation in the sea urchin S. purpuratus may reveal developmental transitions that occur in the evolution of inherited and inductive mechanisms of germ‐line specification. Developmental Dynamics 243:568–587, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SAS1B protein [ovastacin] shows temporal and spatial restriction to oocytes in several eutherian orders and initiates translation at the primary to secondary follicle transition
Authors: Pires Eusebio S. , Hlavin Callie , Macnamara Ellen , Ishola‐Gbenla Khadijat , Doerwaldt Christa , Chamberlain Catherine , Klotz Kenneth , Herr Austin K. , Khole Aalok , Chertihin Olga , Curnow Eliza , Feldman Sandford H. , Mandal Arabinda , Shetty Jagathpala , Flickinger Charles , Herr John C.
Published: August 2013

Background: Sperm Acrosomal SLLP1 Binding (SAS1B) protein (ovastacin) is an oolemmal binding partner for the intra‐acrosomal sperm protein SLLP1. Results: Immunohistochemical localization revealed that SAS1B translation is restricted among adult tissues to the ovary and oocytes, SAS1B appearing first in follicles at the primary‐secondary transition. Quiescent oocytes within primordial follicles and primary follicles did not stain for SAS1B. Examination of neonatal rat ovaries revealed SAS1B expression first as faint signals in postnatal day 3 oocytes, with SAS1B protein staining intensifying with oocyte growth. Irrespective of animal age or estrus stage, SAS1B was seen only in oocytes of follicles that initiated a second granulosa cell layer. The precise temporal and spatial onset of SAS1B expression was conserved in adult ovaries in seven eutherian species, including nonhuman primates. Immunoelectron micrographs localized SAS1B within cortical granules in MII oocytes. A population of SAS1B localized on the oolemma predominantly in the microvillar region anti‐podal to the nucleus in ovulated MII rat oocytes and on the oolemma in macaque GV oocytes. Conclusions: The restricted expression of SAS1B protein in growing oocytes, absence in the ovarian reserve, and localization on the oolemma suggest this zinc metalloprotease deserves consideration as a candidate target for reversible female contraceptive strategies. Developmental Dynamics, 242:1405–1426, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tree size and its relationship with flowering phenology and reproductive output inWildNutmeg trees
Authors: Otárola Mauricio Fernández , Sazima Marlies , Solferini Vera N.
Published: August 2013

Reproductive strategies, sexual selection, and their relationship with the phenotype of individuals are topics widely studied in animals, but this information is less abundant for plants. Variability in flowering phenology among individuals has direct impact on their fitness, but how reproductive phenology is affected by the size of the individuals needs further study. We quantified the flowering intensity, length, and reproductive synchronization of two sympatric dioecious Wild Nutmeg tree species (Virola, Myristicaceae) in the Brazilian Atlantic forest, and analyzed its relationships with tree size. Two distinct strategies in flowering timing and intensity were found between species (annual versus biennial flowering), and among individuals in the annual flowering species (extended versus peak flowering). Only for the annual flowering species the reproductive output is related to tree size and large trees present proportionally higher flower coverage, and lower synchronization than smaller ones. Flowering is massive and highly synchronized in the biennial species. Sex ratios are not different from 1:1 in the two species, and in the two segregated reproductive subgroups in the biennial flowering species. The biennial flowering at individual level is a novelty among reproductive patterns in plants, separating the population in two reproductive subgroups. A proportional increase in the reproductive output with size exists only for the annual flowering species. A biennial flowering can allow resource storage favouring massive flowering for all the individuals diluting their relationship with size.
Efficient and Rapid Regioselective One‐Pot Synthesis of 1,4‐Disubstituted 1,2,3‐Triazoles from In Situ Generated Potassium Arylethynyltrifluoroborates through Sonogashira Reaction
Authors: Song Jung Ho , Choi Pilju , Lee Seung Eon , Jeong Kyu Hyuk , Kim Taejung , Kang Ki Sung , Choi Yong Soo , Ham Jungyeob
Published: August 2013

Potassium arylethynyltrifluoroborates, the intermediates generated by the Sonogashira reaction of potassium ethynyltrifluoroborate with various aryl halides, were directly coupled with azides in the presence of a stoichiometric amount of CuI under aqueous conditions, and the desired 1,4‐disubstituted 1,2,3‐triazoles were isolated in good yields. Both electron‐donating and electron‐withdrawing substituents on the potassium arylethynyltrifluoroborates gave moderate to excellent yields of the isolated products.
Cultivation of Nannochloropsis gaditana on mixtures of nitrogen sources
Authors: Ren Ming , Ogden Kimberly
Published: August 2013

To effectively cultivate microalgae it is necessary to understand nutrient requirements to maximize productivity while minimizing cost. One issue associated with large scale systems is optimizing the amount and form of nitrogen; hence the effects of nitrate and urea on microalgae growth, lipid yield, and fatty acids profile for microalgae Nannochloropsis gaditana were investigated. In addition, the effects of high concentrations of urea and nitrate, similar to what may be found in agricultural run‐off, were studied. As others have demonstrated, the lipid yield decreases when there is excess nitrate in the medium. Replacing the nitrate with urea has a more significant negative effect on lipid productivity; however, combinations of urea and nitrate are more optimal indicating that agricultural wastewater may be a realistic nitrogen source. The lipid profile is not significantly different if nitrate or urea is the nitrogen source and the major fatty acids are palmitic acid (C16:0) and palmitoleic acid (C16:1), which are readily converted to biodiesel. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 551–555, 2014
Thermodynamic analysis of hydrogen production from model compounds of bio‐oil through steam reforming
Authors: Xie Huaqing , Yu Qingbo , Wang Kun , Shi Xiaobo , Li Xinhui
Published: August 2013

With the minimization of the Gibb's free energy, the thermodynamical analysis of the steam reforming processes for the four typical model compounds (ethanol, acetic acid, acetone, and phenol) of bio‐oil was systematically performed. In the steam reforming process, the four model compounds can be completely converted. The higher hydrogen yields of the four compounds were obtained via steam reforming than via thermal decomposition. The hydrogen yields first increased and then remained constant and even decreased with temperature, monotonically decreased with the pressure increase, and obviously increased with the steam to carbon ratio. As the steam to carbon ratio rose, the temperatures of the maximum hydrogen yields move afterward to low temperature. When the S/C ratio was 6, the increase rate of hydrogen was decreased. In the co‐existence of CaO/CO2/H2O, the reaction between CaO and CO2 was dominant to the reaction between CaO and H2O. By adding CaO, a CO2 sorbent in the steam reforming system, both the yields and the concentration of hydrogen were obviously more pronounced than the processes without CaO. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1008–1016, 2014
Insecticide residues in Australian plague locusts (Chortoicetes terminifera walker) after ultra-low volume aerial application of the organophosphorus insecticide fenitrothion
Authors: Story Paul G. , Mineau Pierre , Mullié Wim C.
Published: August 2013

The need for locust control throughout eastern Australia during spring 2010 provided an opportunity to quantify residues of the organophosphorus insecticide fenitrothion on nymphs of the Australian plague locust, Chortoicetes terminifera Walker. Residues were collected across the different physiological states—live, dead, and debilitated (characterized by ease of capture, erratic hopping, and the inability to remain upright)—of locust nymphs observed following exposure to fenitrothion. The time course of residue depletion for 72 h after spraying was quantified, and residue-per-unit dose values in the present study were compared with previous research. Fenitrothion residue-per-unit dose values ranged from 0.2 µg/g to 31.2 µg/g (mean ± standard error [SE] = 6.3 ± 1.3 µg/g) in live C. terminifera nymps, from 0.5 µg/g to 25.5 µg/g (7.8 ± 1.3 µg/g) in debilitated nymphs, and from 2.3 µg/g to 39.8 µg/g (16.5 ± 2.8 µg/g) in dead nymphs. Residues of the oxidative derivative of fenitrothion, fenitrooxon, were generally below the limit of quantitation for the analysis (0.02 µg/g), with 2 exceptions—1 live and 1 debilitated sample returned residues at the limit of quantitation. The results of the present study suggest that sampling of acridids for risk assessment should include mimicking predatory behavior and be over a longer time course (preferably 3–24 h postspray) than sampling of vegetation (typically 1–2 h postspray) and that current regulatory frameworks may underestimate the risk of pesticides applied for locust or grasshopper control. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2792–2799. © 2013 SETAC
Model building: an examination of the pre‐evacuation period of the 2001 World Trade Center disaster
Authors: Kuligowski Erica
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a qualitative study of occupant behavior in response to the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center disaster. Through social science‐based analyses of transcripts from 245 face‐to‐face interviews with survivors from both World Trade Center towers, collected by project High‐rise Evacuation Evaluation Database, a conceptual model was developed to describe the pre‐evacuation period in what became the largest full‐scale building evacuation in history. The objectives of this study were to understand the types of actions performed before occupants began evacuation via stairs and elevators, and why those actions were taken to improve techniques used in evacuation modeling tools. On September 11, 2001, occupants consistently developed new social norms and lines of action based upon the meanings that occupants assigned to the situation, including perceptions of risk, familiarity with the building and others in the building, and responsibility for others. These meanings were dependent upon the receipt of environmental cues as well as on pre‐existing norms, experiences, training, and social roles. Published 2013. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Remote hydroacoustic sensing of large icebergs in the southern Indian Ocean: Implications for iceberg monitoring
Authors: Evers L. G. , Green D. N. , Young N. W. , Snellen M.
Published: August 2013

Hydroacoustic signals generated by drifting icebergs that crack, disintegrate, and collide were identified on two hydrophone arrays in the Indian Ocean. These hydrophone arrays are deployed in the Sound Fixing and Ranging channel, enabling the detection of small sources over ranges of several thousand kilometers due to the low attenuation. Source locations estimated from the signal bearings at the arrays are used to monitor two very large icebergs, C20 and B17B. Spatial and temporal correlation of the location estimates with satellite observations confirm that the icebergs can be hydroacoustically resolved. Hydroacoustic generation rates at both C20 and B17B are highest at times of observed breakup. For C20, which underwent continuous breakup, clusters of events to the southeast of the main iceberg show that hydroacoustic observations can identify trails of icebergs that calved from the main berg whose dimensions are less than that easily resolved by moderate resolution satellite monitoring.
Differences in age‐related effects on myelinated and unmyelinated peripheral fibres: A sensitivity and evoked potentials study
Authors: Kemp J. , Després O. , Pebayle T. , Dufour A.
Published: August 2013

Background

Experimental data regarding age effects on sensitivity and pain thresholds are not always consistent, with the type of stimulus being a major source of variability. This could suggest that some types of peripheral sensory fibres undergo more important modifications with age than others. We investigated whether ageing affects differently myelinated and unmyelinated fibres.

Methods

Somatosensitivity and pain perception and recorded somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) were assessed in younger and older adults during the selective activation of either myelinated Aδ‐ or unmyelinated C‐fibres.

Results

Somatosensitivity for information transmitted and SEPs elicited by stimulation of C‐fibres did not differ between both groups. In contrast, pain perception was lower in older than in younger adults, and older adults showed longer SEP latencies and reduced peak‐to‐peak amplitude, during selective stimulation of Aδ‐fibres.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that myelinated Aδ‐fibres are compromised by the normal ageing process, whereas unmyelinated C‐fibres seem to remain unaltered or, at least, less affected.
In vitro macrophage response to nanometer‐size chromium oxide particles
Authors: VanOs Robilyn , Lildhar Levannia L. , Lehoux Eric A. , Beaulé Paul E. , Catelas Isabelle
Published: August 2013

An increasing number of studies have reported adverse tissue reactions around metal‐on‐metal (MM) hip implants. However, the origin and mechanisms of these reactions remain unclear. Moreover, the biological effects of nanometer‐size chromium oxide particles, the predominant type of wear particles produced by MM implants, remain mostly unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cytotoxic effects of clinically relevant nanometer‐size chromium oxide particles on macrophage response in vitro. J774.A1 macrophages were cultured with either 60 nm or 700 nm commercially available Cr2O3 particles at different concentrations. Two different particle sizes were analyzed to evaluate potential volume effects. Cell mortality was analyzed by light microscopy, flow cytometry (annexin V‐fluorescein isothiocyanate and propidium iodide assay), and using a cell death detection enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA). Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 (MCP‐1), and macrophage inflammatory protein‐1 alpha (MIP‐1α) release was measured by ELISA, and gene expression was analyzed by quantitative real‐time PCR. Results showed that, at high concentrations, Cr2O3 particles of both sizes can be cytotoxic, inducing significant decreases in total cell numbers and increases in necrosis. Results also suggested that these effects were dependent on particle volume. However, TNF‐α, MCP‐1, and MIP‐1α cytokine release and gene expression remained low. Overall, this study demonstrates that nanometer‐size particles of Cr2O3, a stable form of chromium oxide ceramic, have rather low cytotoxic effects on macrophages. Therefore, these particles may not be the main culprit in the initiation of the inflammatory reaction in MM periprosthetic tissues. However, other parameters (e.g., potential intracellular damage) remain to be investigated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 149–159, 2014.
One‐pot Synthesis of Benzamidonaphtho[2,1‐b]furans and Benzamidobenzo[b]furans as Novel Polycyclic Heteroaromatic Compounds
Authors: Vahabinia Hamid Reza , Karami Bahador , Khodabakhshi Saeed
Published: August 2013

An operationally simple, green and efficient procedure for one‐pot synthesis of novel polycyclic heteroaromatic compounds such as benzamidonaphtho[2,1‐b]furans and benzamidobenzo[b]furans has been developed from the reaction of arylglyoxals, benzamide, and phenols. The reactions were mediated with low amounts of yttrium nitrate hexahydrate as a suitable Lewis acid catalyst without using solvent.