bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urological injury as a complication of the transpsoas approach for discectomy and interbody fusion
Authors: Anand Neel , Baron Eli M.
Published: November 2012

Transpsoas discectomy and interbody fusion has become an increasingly popular method of achieving lumbar interbody fusion, but reports of neurological, vascular, and gastrointestinal complications associated with this procedure have been described in the literature. To date, however, ureteral complications have not been reported with this procedure. The authors report 2 cases of ureteral injury and 1 case of renal injury following this procedure. A low index of suspicion is warranted to work up any patient having flank or abdominal symptoms after undergoing transpsoas discectomy and interbody fusion.
Registration of a Diverse Collection of Sorghum Genetic Stocks
Authors: Xin Zhanguo , Burow Gloria B. , Woodfin Charles , Franks Cleve D. , Klein Robert R. , Schertz Keith F. , Pederson Gary A. , Burke J. J.
Published: November 2012

Genetic stock collections have played an important role in shaping breeding strategies in many crops. With the advance in genomics, they are now essential tools for identifying genes underlying important agronomic traits. The objective of this work is to formally register and document the release of historical sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] genetic stocks originally collected and curated by the late USDA‐ARS sorghum geneticist Keith Schertz. The seeds from the original collection were revitalized at the USDA‐ARS Experiment Station at Lubbock, TX in 2004 and 2006, and evaluated for phenotypic variations in 2009. The collection consists of 507 lines and accessions (Reg. No. GS‐144, PI 663217 through Reg. No. GS‐650, PI 663723). This collection displays significant variation in growth, developmental, and agronomic traits, such as seedling vigor, leaf/vegetative organs, reproduction, maturity, height, and grain quality. Combined with advanced genomic tools, these genetic stocks are vital resources for elucidating the fundamental pathways that make sorghum and other related grasses unusually tolerant to drought and heat stress, have moderate to low requirements for fertilizer, and highly productive under diverse environmental conditions.
Pharmacokinetics of isoniazid with or without ofloxacin
Authors: Brown Sinyeofori A , Ezejiofor Ndidiamaka A , Orisakwe Orish E
Published: November 2012

Objective of the resent study was to determine the effect of ofloxacin (OXC) on the pharmacokinetics of isoniazid (INH). Five healthy volunteers aged 18  39 years participated in this study after an informed consent. The study was carried out in two phases with an interval of one-week drug wash out period in between phases. In phase one (INH alone), each subject received 300mg of isoniazid (INH) with 350ml of water after an overnight fast. The subjects were made to fast 2 hours post drug. In phase two (INH + OXC), each subject was administered with 300mg of INH in combination with 200mg of OXC observing all the protocol in phase one. The concentration of INH in plasma, saliva and urine of the subjects at predetermined time intervals were measured spectrophotometrically in the two phases over a period of 0 - 48 hours. Various pharmacokinetics parameters were calculated. From the study it is evident that Ofloxacin (OXC) increased the rate and extent of absorption of isoniazid. The absorption half-life (t1/2a) and the maximum concentration and absorption time (Cmax, Tmax) of isoniazid (INH) were increased in the presence of OXC. The urinary excretion of isoniazid was also increased by ofloxacin. The salivary concentration of isoniazid was less than the corresponding plasma drug concentrations, a pattern also found in similar studies. Thus it can be concluded that Ofloxacin increases absorption kinetics and urinary excretion of Isoniazid.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v1i12.12449 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal 2012, 1(12): 403-409
Formulation and evaluation of solid self micro emulsifying drug delivery system using aerosil 200 as solid carrier
Authors: Bhagwat Durgacharan Arun , DSouza John Intru
Published: November 2012

Improvement of bio-availability of poorly water soluble drugs presents one of the furthermost challenge in drug formulations. One of the most admired and commercially viable formulation approach for this challenge is solid self micro emulsifying drug delivery system (S-SMEDDS). There are many techniques to convert liquid SMEDDS to solid, but an adsorption technique is simple and economic. Hence aim of present study was to develop S-SMEDDS of poorly water soluble drug Telmisartan (TEL) using Aerosil 200 as solid carrier. Liquid SMEDDS was prepared using Acrysol EL 135, Tween 80 and PEG 400 as oil, surfactant and co-surfactant and was converted to S-SMEDDS by adsorbing it on Aerosil 200. Prepared S-SMEDDS was evaluated for flow properties, drug content, reconstitution properties, DSC, SEM, in-vitro drug release and ex-vivo intestinal permeability study. Results showed that prepared S-SMEDDS have good flow property with 99.45 ± 0.02% drug content. Dilution study by visual observation showed that there was spontaneous micro emulsification and no sign of phase separation. Droplet size was found to be 0.34 µm with polydispersity index of 0.25. DSC thermogram showed that crystallization of TEL was inhibited. SEM photograph showed smooth surface of S-SMEDDS with less aggregation. Drug releases from S- SMEDDS were found to be significantly higher as compared with that of plain TEL. Ex-vivo intestinal permeability study revealed that diffusion of drug was significantly higher from S-SMEDDS than that of suspension of plain TEL. Study concluded that S-SMEDDS can effectively formulated by adsorption technique with enhanced dissolution rate and concomitantly bioavailability.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v1i12.12451 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal 2012, 1(12): 414-419
Immunochemical Analysis of the Antimalarial Drugs Artemisinin and Artesunate
Authors: Tanaka Hiroyuki , Paudel Madan , Takei Ayako , Sakoda Junichi , Juengwatanatrakul Thaweesak , Sasaki-Tabata Kaori , Putalun Waraporn , De-Eknamkul Wanchai , Matangkasombut Oraphan , Shoyama Yukihiro , Morimoto Satoshi
Published: November 2012

We prepared a monoclonal antibody (mAb 1C1) showing specificity for artemisinin (AM) and artesunate (AS), and we developed an indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA) using this novel mAb. Moreover, we prepared a recombinant antibody derived from mAb 1C1 in order to overcome insufficient mAb production by hybridoma culture. A recombinant antigen-binding fragment (Fab) was easily constructed using antibody manipulation technologies and was produced by microorganisms in high yield. We herein review immunochemical approaches for analysis of the antimalarial drugs AM and AS that were able to yield analysis results for multiple samples in a short period of time using simple and reliable protocols.
Working Memory, Language Skills, and Autism Symptomatology
Authors: Schuh Jillian M. , Eigsti Inge-Marie
Published: November 2012

While many studies have reported working memory (WM) impairments in autism spectrum disorders, others do not. Sample characteristics, WM domain, and task complexity likely contribute to these discrepancies. Although deficits in visuospatial WM have been more consistently documented, there is much controversy regarding verbal WM in autism. The goal of the current study was to explore visuospatial and verbal WM in a well-controlled sample of children with high-functioning autism (HFA) and typical development. Individuals ages 9–17 with HFA (n = 18) and typical development (n = 18), were carefully matched on gender, age, IQ, and language, and were administered a series of standardized visuospatial and verbal WM tasks. The HFA group displayed significant impairment across WM domains. No differences in performance were noted across WM tasks for either the HFA or typically developing groups. Over and above nonverbal cognition, WM abilities accounted for significant variance in language skills and symptom severity. The current study suggests broad WM limitations in HFA. We further suggest that deficits in verbal WM are observed in more complex tasks, as well as in simpler tasks, such as phonological WM. Increased task complexity and linguistic demands may influence WM abilities.
Regulatory Promotion of Waste Wood Reused as an Energy Source and the Environmental Concerns about Ash Residue in the Industrial Sector of Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Wen-Tien
Published: November 2012

The objective of this paper was to provide a preliminary analysis of the utilization of energy derived from waste wood in Taiwan, a highly industrialized country with a high dependence (over 99%) on imported energy. The discussion focuses on the status of waste wood generation and its management over the past decade. Findings show that the quantities of biomass waste collected for reuse purposes in the industrial sectors of Taiwan has exhibited an increasing trend, from about 4000 tons in 2001 to over 52,000 tons in 2010. Although waste wood can be reused as a fuel and raw material for a variety of applications based on regulatory promotion, the most commonly used end use is to directly utilize it as an auxiliary fuel in industrial utilities (e.g., boilers, heaters and furnaces) for the purpose of co-firing with coal/fuel oil. The most progressive measure for promoting biomass-to-power is to introduce the feed-in tariff (FIT) mechanism according to the Renewable Energy Development Act passed in June 2009. The financial support for biomass power generation has been increasing over the years from 0.070 US$/kWh in 2010 to 0.094 US$/kWh in 2012. On the other hand, the environmental regulations in Taiwan regarding the hazard identification of wood-combusted ash (especially in filter fly-ash) and its options for disposal and utilization are further discussed in the paper, suggesting that waste wood impregnated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA) and other copper-based preservatives should be excluded from the wood-to-energy system. Finally, some recommendations for promoting wood-to-energy in the near future of Taiwan are addressed.
Preparation of Coaxial-Electrospun Poly[bis(p-methylphenoxy)]phosphazene Nanofiber Membrane for Enzyme Immobilization
Authors: Wang Shu-Gen , Jiang Xin , Chen Peng-Cheng , Yu An-Guo , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: November 2012

A core/sheath nanofiber membrane with poly[bis(p-methylphenoxy)]phospha-zene (PMPPh) as the sheath and easily spinnable polyacrylonitrile (PAN) as the core was prepared via a coaxial electrospinning process. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the morphology of the nanofiber membrane. It was found that the concentration of the PAN spinning solution and the ratio of the core/sheath solution flow rates played a decisive role in the coaxial electrospinning process. In addition, the stabilized core/sheath PMPPh nanofiber membrane was investigated as a support for enzyme immobilization because of its excellent biocompatibility, high surface/volume ratio, and large porosity. Lipase from Candida rugosa was immobilized on the nanofiber membrane by adsorption. The properties of the immobilized lipase on the polyphosphazene nanofiber membrane were studied and compared with those of a PAN nanofiber membrane. The results showed that the adsorption capacity (20.4 ± 2.7 mg/g) and activity retention (63.7%) of the immobilized lipase on the polyphosphazene nanofiber membrane were higher than those on the PAN membrane.
Construction of Mutant Glucose Oxidases with Increased Dye-Mediated Dehydrogenase Activity
Authors: Horaguchi Yohei , Saito Shoko , Kojima Katsuhiro , Tsugawa Wakako , Ferri Stefano , Sode Koji
Published: November 2012

Mutagenesis studies on glucose oxidases (GOxs) were conducted to construct GOxs with reduced oxidase activity and increased dehydrogenase activity. We focused on two representative GOxs, of which crystal structures have already been reported—Penicillium amagasakiense GOx (PDB ID; 1gpe) and Aspergillus niger GOx (PDB ID; 1cf3). We constructed oxygen-interacting structural models for GOxs, and predicted the residues responsible for oxidative half reaction with oxygen on the basis of the crystal structure of cholesterol oxidase as well as on the fact that both enzymes are members of the glucose/methanol/choline (GMC) oxidoreductase family. Rational amino acid substitution resulted in the construction of an engineered GOx with drastically decreased oxidase activity and increased dehydrogenase activity, which was higher than that of the wild-type enzyme. As a result, the dehydrogenase/oxidase ratio of the engineered enzyme was more than 11-fold greater than that of the wild-type enzyme. These results indicate that alteration of the dehydrogenase/oxidase activity ratio of GOxs is possible by introducing a mutation into the putative functional residues responsible for oxidative half reaction with oxygen of these enzymes, resulting in a further increased dehydrogenase activity. This is the first study reporting the alteration of GOx electron acceptor preference from oxygen to an artificial electron acceptor.
Apoptosis Induction of Human Prostate Carcinoma DU145 Cells by Diallyl Disulfide via Modulation of JNK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways
Authors: Shin Dong , Kim Gi-Young , Lee Jun , Choi Byung , Yoo Young , Choi Yung
Published: November 2012

Diallyl disulfide (DADS), a sulfur compound derived from garlic, has various biological properties, such as anticancer, antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the mechanisms of action underlying the compound's anticancer activity have not been fully elucidated. In this study, the apoptotic effects of DADS were investigated in DU145 human prostate carcinoma cells. Our results showed that DADS markedly inhibited the growth of the DU145 cells by induction of apoptosis. Apoptosis was accompanied by modulation of Bcl-2 and inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family proteins, depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, ΔΨm) and proteolytic activation of caspases. We also found that the expression of death-receptor 4 (DR4) and Fas ligand (FasL) proteins was increased and that the level of intact Bid proteins was down-regulated by DADS. Moreover, treatment with DADS induced phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including extracellular-signal regulating kinase (ERK), p38 MAPK and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). A specific JNK inhibitor, SP600125, significantly blocked DADS-induced-apoptosis, whereas inhibitors of the ERK (PD98059) and p38 MAPK (SB203580) had no effect. The induction of apoptosis was also accompanied by inactivation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and the PI3K inhibitor LY29004 significantly increased DADS-induced cell death. These findings provide evidence demonstrating that the proapoptotic effect of DADS is mediated through the activation of JNK and the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in DU145 cells.
The Innate Immune-Related Genes in Catfish
Authors: Gao Lei , He Chongbo , Liu Xueguang , Su Hao , Gao Xianggang , Li Yunfeng , Liu Weidong
Published: November 2012

Catfish is one of the most important aquaculture species in America (as well as in Asia and Africa). In recent years, the production of catfish has suffered massive financial losses due to pathogen spread and breakouts. Innate immunity plays a crucial role in increasing resistance to pathogenic organisms and has generated increasing interest in the past few years. This review summarizes the current understanding of innate immune-related genes in catfish, including pattern recognition receptors, antimicrobial peptides, complements, lectins, cytokines, transferrin and gene expression profiling using microarrays and next generation sequencing technologies. This review will benefit the understanding of innate immune system in catfish and further efforts in studying the innate immune-related genes in fish.
Effect of Superfine Grinding on Antidiabetic Activity of Bitter Melon Powder
Authors: Zhu Ying , Dong Ying , Qian Xiwen , Cui Fengjie , Guo Qin , Zhou Xinghua , Wang Yun , Zhang Yi , Xiong Zhiyu
Published: November 2012

The antidiabetic activities of bitter melon powders produced with lyophilization/superfine grinding and hot air drying/normal grinding were investigated in vivo for selecting a suitable bitter melon processing procedure. After a five-week treatment, bitter melon lyophilized superfine grinding powder (BLSP) had a higher antidiabetic activity with reducing fasting blood glucose levels from 21.40 to 12.54 mmol/L, the serum insulin levels from 40.93 to 30.74 mIU/L, and restoring activities of SOD compared with those in the bitter melon hot air drying powder (BAP) treated group. Furthermore, BLSP protected pancreatic tissues including islet beta cells and reduced the loss of islet cells. Combined with the difference of compositions in BLSP and BAP, it could be concluded that superfine grinding and lyophilization processes were beneficial for presenting the antidiabetic activity, which will provide a reference for direct utilization of bitter melon as a suitable functional food to relieve symptoms of diabetes.
Creep Behavior of a Sn-Ag-Bi Pb-Free Solder
Authors: Vianco Paul , Rejent Jerome , Grazier Mark , Kilgo Alice
Published: November 2012

Compression creep tests were performed on the ternary 91.84Sn-3.33Ag-4.83Bi (wt.%, abbreviated Sn-Ag-Bi) Pb-free alloy. The test temperatures were: −25 °C, 25 °C, 75 °C, 125 °C, and 160 °C (± 0.5 °C). Four loads were used at the two lowest temperatures and five at the higher temperatures. The specimens were tested in the as-fabricated condition or after having been subjected to one of two air aging conditions: 24 hours at either 125 °C or 150 °C. The strain-time curves exhibited frequent occurrences of negative creep and small-scale fluctuations, particularly at the slower strain rates, that were indicative of dynamic recrystallization (DRX) activity. The source of tertiary creep behavior at faster strain rates was likely to also be DRX rather than a damage accumulation mechanism. Overall, the strain-time curves did not display a consistent trend that could be directly attributed to the aging condition. The sinh law equation satisfactorily represented the minimum strain rate as a function of stress and temperature so as to investigate the deformation rate kinetics: dε/dtmin = Asinhn (ασ) exp (−ΔH/RT). The values of α, n, and ΔH were in the following ranges (±95% confidence interval): α, 0.010–0.015 (±0.005 1/MPa); n, 2.2–3.1 (±0.5); and ΔH, 54–66 (±8 kJ/mol). The rate kinetics analysis indicated that short-circuit diffusion was a contributing mechanism to dislocation motion during creep. The rate kinetics analysis also determined that a minimum creep rate trend could not be developed between the as-fabricated versus aged conditions. This study showed that the elevated temperature aging treatments introduced multiple changes to the Sn-Ag-Bi microstructure that did not result in a simple loss (“softening”) of its mechanical strength.
In Vitro Antifungal Activity of Sanguinarine and Chelerythrine Derivatives against Phytopathogenic Fungi
Authors: Yang Xin-Juan , Miao Fang , Yao Yao , Cao Fang-Jun , Yang Rui , Ma Yan-Ni , Qin Bao-Fu , Zhou Le
Published: November 2012

In order to understand the antifungal activity of some derivatives of sanguinarine (S) and chelerythrine (C) and their structure-activity relationships, sixteen derivatives of S and C were prepared and evaluated for in vitro antifungal activity against seven phytopathogenic fungi by the mycelial growth rate method. The results showed that S, C and their 6-alkoxy dihydro derivatives S1–S4, C1–C4 and 6-cyanodihydro derivatives S5, C5 showed significant antifungal activity at 100 µg/mL against all the tested fungi. For most tested fungi, the median effective concentrations of S, S1, C and C1 were in a range of 14–50 µg/mL. The structure-activity relationship showed that the C=N+ moiety was the determinant for the antifungal activity of S and C. S1–S5 and C1–C5 could be considered as the precursors of S and C, respectively. Thus, the present results strongly suggested that S and C or their derivatives S1–S5 and C1–C5 should be considered as good lead compounds or model molecules to develop new anti-phytopathogenic fungal agents.
Aluminum Exposure in Neonatal Patients Using the Least Contaminated Parenteral Nutrition Solution Products
Authors: Poole Robert , Pieroni Kevin , Gaskari Shabnam , Dixon Tessa , Kerner John
Published: November 2012

Aluminum (Al) is a contaminant in all parenteral nutrition (PN) solution component products. Manufacturers currently label these products with the maximum Al content at the time of expiry. We recently published data to establish the actual measured concentration of Al in PN solution products prior to being compounded in the clinical setting [1]. The investigation assessed quantitative Al content of all available products used in the formulation of PN solutions. The objective of this study was to assess the Al exposure in neonatal patients using the least contaminated PN solutions and determine if it is possible to meet the FDA “safe limit” of less than 5 μg/kg/day of Al. The measured concentrations from our previous study were analyzed and the least contaminated products were identified. These concentrations were entered into our PN software and the least possible Al exposure was determined. A significant decrease (41%–44%) in the Al exposure in neonatal patients can be achieved using the least contaminated products, but the FDA “safe limit” of less than 5 μg/kg/day of Al was not met. However, minimizing the Al exposure may decrease the likelihood of developing Al toxicity from PN.
Variable Scheduling to Mitigate Channel Losses in Energy-Efficient Body Area Networks
Authors: Tselishchev Yuriy , Boulis Athanassios , Libman Lavy
Published: November 2012

We consider a typical body area network (BAN) setting in which sensor nodes send data to a common hub regularly on a TDMA basis, as defined by the emerging IEEE 802.15.6 BAN standard. To reduce transmission losses caused by the highly dynamic nature of the wireless channel around the human body, we explore variable TDMA scheduling techniques that allow the order of transmissions within each TDMA round to be decided on the fly, rather than being fixed in advance. Using a simple Markov model of the wireless links, we devise a number of scheduling algorithms that can be performed by the hub, which aim to maximize the expected number of successful transmissions in a TDMA round, and thereby significantly reduce transmission losses as compared with a static TDMA schedule. Importantly, these algorithms do not require a priori knowledge of the statistical properties of the wireless channels, and the reliability improvement is achieved entirely via shuffling the order of transmissions among devices, and does not involve any additional energy consumption (e.g., retransmissions). We evaluate these algorithms directly on an experimental set of traces obtained from devices strapped to human subjects performing regular daily activities, and confirm that the benefits of the proposed variable scheduling algorithms extend to this practical setup as well.
Combination and Selection of Traffic Safety Expert Judgments for the Prevention of Driving Risks
Authors: Cabello Enrique , Conde Cristina , Diego Isaac , Moguerza Javier , Redchuk Andrés
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we describe a new framework to combine experts’ judgments for the prevention of driving risks in a cabin truck. In addition, the methodology shows how to choose among the experts the one whose predictions fit best the environmental conditions. The methodology is applied over data sets obtained from a high immersive cabin truck simulator in natural driving conditions. A nonparametric model, based in Nearest Neighbors combined with Restricted Least Squared methods is developed. Three experts were asked to evaluate the driving risk using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), in order to measure the driving risk in a truck simulator where the vehicle dynamics factors were stored. Numerical results show that the methodology is suitable for embedding in real time systems.
A Review of Protocol Implementations and Energy Efficient Cross-Layer Design for Wireless Body Area Networks
Authors: Hughes Laurie , Wang Xinheng , Chen Tao
Published: November 2012

The issues inherent in caring for an ever-increasing aged population has been the subject of endless debate and continues to be a hot topic for political discussion. The use of hospital-based facilities for the monitoring of chronic physiological conditions is expensive and ties up key healthcare professionals. The introduction of wireless sensor devices as part of a Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) integrated within an overall eHealth solution could bring a step change in the remote management of patient healthcare. Sensor devices small enough to be placed either inside or on the human body can form a vital part of an overall health monitoring network. An effectively designed energy efficient WBAN should have a minimal impact on the mobility and lifestyle of the patient. WBAN technology can be deployed within a hospital, care home environment or in the patient’s own home. This study is a review of the existing research in the area of WBAN technology and in particular protocol adaptation and energy efficient cross-layer design. The research reviews the work carried out across various layers of the protocol stack and highlights how the latest research proposes to resolve the various challenges inherent in remote continual healthcare monitoring.
Real-Time Curvature Defect Detection on Outer Surfaces Using Best-Fit Polynomial Interpolation
Authors: Golkar Ehsan , Prabuwono Anton , Patel Ahmed
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a novel, real-time defect detection system, based on a best-fit polynomial interpolation, that inspects the conditions of outer surfaces. The defect detection system is an enhanced feature extraction method that employs this technique to inspect the flatness, waviness, blob, and curvature faults of these surfaces. The proposed method has been performed, tested, and validated on numerous pipes and ceramic tiles. The results illustrate that the physical defects such as abnormal, popped-up blobs are recognized completely, and that flames, waviness, and curvature faults are detected simultaneously.
Nonlinear Magnetoelectric Response of Planar Ferromagnetic-Piezoelectric Structures to Sub-Millisecond Magnetic Pulses
Authors: Kreitmeier Florian , Chashin Dmitry V. , Fetisov Yury K. , Fetisov Leonid Y. , Schulz Irene , Monkman Gareth J. , Shamonin Mikhail
Published: November 2012

The magnetoelectric response of bi- and symmetric trilayer composite structures to pulsed magnetic fields is experimentally investigated in detail. The structures comprise layers of commercially available piezoelectric (lead zirconate titanate) and magnetostrictive (permendur or nickel) materials. The magnetic-field pulses have the form of a half-wave sine function with duration of 450 µs and amplitudes ranging from 500 Oe to 38 kOe. The time dependence of the resulting voltage is presented and explained by theoretical estimations. Appearance of voltage oscillations with frequencies much larger than the reciprocal pulse length is observed for sufficiently large amplitudes (~1–10 kOe) of the magnetic-field pulse. The origin of these oscillations is the excitation of bending and planar acoustic oscillations in the structures. Dependencies of the magnetoelectric voltage coefficient on the excitation frequency and the applied magnetic field are calculated by digital signal processing and compared with those obtained by the method of harmonic field modulation. The results are of interest for developing magnetoelectric sensors of pulsed magnetic fields as well as for rapid characterization of magnetoelectric composite structures.
Novel Air Flow Meter for an Automobile Engine Using a Si Sensor with Porous Si Thermal Isolation
Authors: Hourdakis Emmanouel , Sarafis Panagiotis , Nassiopoulou Androula
Published: November 2012

An air flow meter for measuring the intake air of an automobile engine is presented. It is based on a miniaturized silicon thermal mass flow sensor using a thick porous Si (Po-Si) layer for local thermal isolation from the Si substrate, on which the sensor active elements are integrated. The sensor is mounted on one side of a printed circuit board (PCB), on the other side of which the readout and control electronics of the meter are mounted. The PCB is fixed on a housing containing a semi-cylindrical flow tube, in the middle of which the sensor is situated. An important advantage of the present air flow meter is that it detects with equal sensitivity both forward and reverse flows. Two prototypes were fabricated, a laboratory prototype for flow calibration using mass flow controllers and a final demonstrator with the housing mounted in an automobile engine inlet tube. The final demonstrator was tested in real life conditions in the engine inlet tube of a truck. It shows an almost linear response in a large flow range between –6,500 kg/h and +6,500 kg/h, which is an order of magnitude larger than the ones usually encountered in an automobile engine.
Low Phosphate Alters Lateral Root Setpoint Angle and Gravitropism
Authors: Bai Hanwen , Murali Bhavna , Barber Kevin , Wolverton Chris
Published: November 2012

• Premise of the study: Lateral roots, responsible for water and nutrient uptake, maintain nonvertical angles throughout development. Soil phosphate is one limiting nutrient for plant growth that is known to induce changes to root system architecture, such as increased lateral root formation. This study seeks to determine whether phosphate concentration affects lateral root orientation in addition to its previously described influences on root architecture.

• Methods: Images of intact Arabidopsis root systems were recorded for 24 h, and lateral root tip angles were measured for wild‐type and mutant pgm‐1 and pin3‐1 roots on a full or low phosphate medium. Setpoint angles of unstimulated root systems were determined, as were gravitropic responses of lateral roots over time.

• Key results: The root system setpoint angles of wild‐type and mutant pin3‐1 roots showed a shift toward a more vertical orientation on low orthophosphate (Pi) medium. The gravitropic responses of both pgm‐1 and pin3‐1 roots on low Pi medium was elevated relative to control Pi medium. Mutations in two phosphate transporters with high levels of expression in the root showed a gravitropic response similar to wild‐type roots grown on low Pi, supporting a role for Pi status in regulating lateral root gravitropism.

• Conclusions: Lateral root orientation and gravitropism are affected by Pi status and may provide an important additional parameter for describing root responses to low Pi. The data also support the conclusion that gravitropic setpoint angle reacts to nutrient status and is under dynamic regulation.
Clinical Outcomes of Peritoneal Dialysis Patients Transferred from Hemodialysis: A Matched Case–Control Study
Authors: Zhang Li , Cao Tao , Li Zhibin , Wen Qiong , Lin Jianxiong , Zhang Xiaodan , Guo Qunying , Yang Xiao , Yu Xueqing , Mao Haiping
Published: November 2012

Objective

Our study aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients transferred to peritoneal dialysis (PD) because of complications related to hemodialysis (HD).

Methods

In a 1:2 matched case–control study, we compared patient and technique survival between patients initially treated with HD for at least 3 months and then transferred to PD (transfer group) and patients started on and continuing with PD (no-transfer group).

Results

All baseline characteristics except for initial residual urinary output were comparable between the groups. Compared with patients in the transfer group, patients in the no-transfer group had a higher initial daily residual urinary output [850 mL (range: 600 – 1250 mL) vs 0 mL (range: 0 – 775 mL/d), p = 0.000]. The main reasons for transfer to PD were vascular access problems and cardiovascular disease. Patient survival and technique failure rates did not significantly differ between the groups ( p > 0.05). The 1-, 3-, and 5-year patient survival rates were 80.0%, 53.7%, and 27.6% in the transfer group and 89.7%, 60.2%, and 43.1% in the no-transfer group. Age (per 10 years) and serum albumin were independent risk factors for long-term survival in PD patients. Relative risk of either death or technique failure was not significantly increased in patients transferred from HD.

Conclusions

Patients who transferred to PD after failing HD had outcomes on PD similar to those for patients who started with and were maintained on PD. Age (per 10 years) and serum albumin were independent risk factors for long-term survival in PD patients.
Acute Peritoneal Dialysis in Neonates with Acute Kidney Injury and Hypernatremic Dehydration
Authors: Yildiz Nurdan , Erguven Müferet , Yildiz Metin , Ozdogan Tutku , Turhan P℩nar
Published: November 2012

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of acute peritoneal dialysis (PD) and clinical outcomes in neonates with acute kidney injury (AKI) and hypernatremic dehydration.

Methods

The medical records of 15 neonates with AKI and hypernatremic dehydration who were treated with acute PD were reviewed. The diagnoses were AKI with hypernatremic dehydration with or without sepsis in 13 patients and AKI with hypernatremia and congenital nephropathy in 2 patients. The main indications for PD were AKI with some combination of oligoanuria, azotemia, hyperuricemia, and metabolic acidosis unresponsive to initial intensive medical treatment.

Results

The mean age of the patients at dialysis initiation was 11.9 ± 9 days, and the mean duration of PD was 6.36 ± 4.8 days. In 7 patients (46.7%), hypotension required the use of vasopressors, and in 6 patients (40%), mechanical ventilation was required. Peritoneal dialysis–related complications occurred in 7 patients (46.7%), the most common being catheter malfunction ( n = 6). Four episodes of peritonitis occurred in the 15 patients (26.7%), 2 episodes in patients with congenital renal disease and 2 episodes in patients with sepsis and multiorgan failure, who did not survive. Congenital renal disease, septicemia, and the need for mechanical ventilation were important factors influencing patient survival. All patients with no pre-existing renal disease or sepsis recovered their renal function and survived.

Conclusions

In neonates with AKI and hypernatremic dehydration, PD is safe and successful, and in patients without congenital renal disease or sepsis, the prognosis is good. Peritoneal dialysis should be the treatment of choice in neonates with AKI and hypernatremic dehydration who do not respond to appropriate medical treatment.
Ultrafiltration Characteristics of Glucose Polymers with Low Polydispersity
Authors: Leypoldt John K. , Hoff Catherine M. , Piscopo Dean , Carr Seraya N. , Svatek Jessica M. , Holmes Clifford J.
Published: November 2012

Background

Icodextrin, a glucose polymer with a polydispersity [ratio of weight-average molecular weight (Mw) to number-average molecular weight] of approximately 2.6, has been shown, compared with glucose, to provide superior ultrafiltration (UF) efficiency [ratio of UF to carbohydrate (CHO) absorbed] when used as an osmotic agent during a long-dwell peritoneal dialysis exchange. In an experimental rabbit model, we evaluated the effect of Mw on the UF and UF efficiency of glucose polymers with low polydispersity.

Methods

A crossover trial in female New Zealand White rabbits (2.20 – 2.65 kg) with surgically implanted peritoneal catheters evaluated two glucose polymers at nominal concentrations of 7.5 g/dL: a 6K polymer (Mw: 6.4 kDa; polydispersity: 2.3) and a 19K polymer (Mw: 18.8 kDa; polydispersity: 2.0). Rabbits were randomized to receive either the 6K ( n = 11) or the 19K ( n = 12) solution during the first exchange (40 mL/kg body weight). The alternative solution was evaluated in a second exchange 3 days later. During each 4-hour dwell, the UF and total glucose polymer CHO absorbed were determined.

Results

The UF was higher for the 6K ( p < 0.0001) than for the 19K polymer (mean ± standard deviation: 73.6 ± 30.8 mL vs. 43.0 ± 20.2 mL), as was the amount of CHO absorbed (42.5% ± 9.8% vs. 35.7% ± 11.0%, p = 0.021). In spite of higher CHO absorption, an approximately 50% higher ( p = 0.029) UF efficiency was achieved with the 6K polymer (28.3 ± 18.8 mL/g) than with the 19K polymer (19.0 ± 11.3 mL/g). The results were independent of the order of the experimental exchanges.

Conclusions

Glucose polymers with low polydispersity are effective osmotic agents in a rabbit model. The low-Mw polymer was more effective at generating UF and had a higher UF efficiency, but those results came at the expense of the polymer being more readily absorbed from the peritoneal cavity.
Determination of the relative configuration of tropinone and granatanone aldols by using TBDMS ethers
Authors: Lazny Ryszard , Nodzewska Aneta , Sidorowicz Katarzyna , Kalicki Przemyslaw
Published: November 2012

The relative configurations of tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) ethers of all four diastereomers of the aldols of tropinone (8-methyl-8-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octan-3-one), as well as of granatanone (9-methyl-9-azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan-3-one), were determined from NMR data, and from the observed interconversion of the diastereomers (exo,anti to endo,syn and exo,syn to endo,anti). The exo forms invert to endo isomers in the presence of silica gel. The relative configuration of a new isomer of tropinone aldol accessible synthetically through the direct solventless reaction of tropinone and benzaldehyde in the presence of water was determined as exo,syn by comparison of NMR data of the aldol isomers, in particular vicinal coupling constants and shifts corresponding to the side-chain CH group, with data of related TBDMS derivatives and confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
Quantitative Radiographic Features of Early Knee Osteoarthritis: Development Over 5 Years and Relationship with Symptoms in the CHECK Cohort
Authors: KINDS MARGOT B. , MARIJNISSEN ANNE C.A. , BIJLSMA JOHANNES W.J. , BOERS MAARTEN , LAFEBER FLORIS P.J.G. , WELSING PACO M.J.
Published: November 2012

Objective.

To evaluate whether computer-assisted, interactive digital analysis of knee radiographs enables identification of different quantitative features of joint damage, and to evaluate the relationship of such features with each other and with clinical characteristics during 5-year followup in early osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods.

Knee radiographs from the Cohort Hip and Cohort Knee (CHECK) study, including 1002 individuals with early OA complaints, were evaluated for different measures with knee images digital analysis (KIDA). To aid definition of different radiographic features of OA, principal component analysis of KIDA was used. Features were correlated (Pearson) to each other, evaluated for changes over time, and related to clinical outcome (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index for pain and function) using baseline, 2-year, and 5-year followup data.

Results.

The identified radiographic features were joint space width (JSW: minimum, medial, lateral), varus angle, osteophyte area, eminence height, and bone density. The features progressed in severity at different times during followup: early (medial JSW, osteophyte area), late (minimum and lateral JSW, eminence height), and both early and late (varus angle, bone density). Correlations between different radiographic features varied between timepoints. The JSW features were most strongly related to each other (largest r = 0.82), but also, e.g., osteophytes and bone density were correlated (largest r = 0.33). The relationships with clinical outcome varied over time, but were most commonly found for osteophyte area and JSW.

Conclusion.

In this early OA cohort, different radiographic features were identified that progressed at different rates between timepoints. The relations between radiographic features and with clinical outcome varied over time. This implies that longitudinal evaluation of different features can improve insight into progression of OA.
Is Vasculopathy Associated with Systemic Sclerosis More Severe in Men?
Authors: PANOPOULOS STYLIANOS T. , BOURNIA VASILIKI-KALLIOPI , SFIKAKIS PETROS P.
Published: November 2012

Objective.

To identify possible differences in morbidity and mortality between men and women with systemic sclerosis (SSc) by examining a homogeneous cohort at a single academic center.

Methods.

Demographic, clinical, and outcome data for all 231 patients of Greek origin with SSc who were examined between 1995 and 2011 in our department (200 women) were recorded in consecutive 3-year intervals from disease onset; data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results.

Factors comparable between sexes were age (yrs ± SD) at disease onset (46 ± 15 vs 46 ± 15), diffuse skin involvement (61.3% of men vs 46.4% of women), and anti-Scl-70 antibody positivity (66.6% of men vs 59.2% of women). Also comparable were prevalence of interstitial lung disease, upper or lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract involvement, and echocardiographic findings during the first, second, and third 3-year intervals from disease onset (2904 patient-yrs). In contrast, vasculopathy occurred earlier in men. During the first 3 years digital ulcers developed in 54% of men versus 31% of women (p = 0.036) and renal crisis developed in 17% of men versus 3% of women (p = 0.006). No significant differences regarding social history, smoking, medical history, or disease management were identified. After excluding non-SSc-related deaths, survival was worse in men (p = 0.005, Kaplan-Meier analysis) with significantly lower 6- and 12-year cumulative rates (77.2% and 53.8%, respectively, in men vs 97.3% and 89.2% in women).

Conclusion.

Results derived from an unselected SSc population indicate that the disease is more severely expressed in men than in women, a finding that could be related to more rapid development of vasculopathy in men. Studies are warranted in other single-center cohorts to confirm these findings.
Consensus Statements for the Use of Administrative Health Data in Rheumatic Disease Research and Surveillance
Authors: BERNATSKY SASHA , LIX LISA , O’DONNELL SIOBHAN , LACAILLE DIANE ,   CANRAD Network
Published: November 2012

Objective.

Administrative data are increasingly being used for research and surveillance about rheumatic diseases. However, literature reviews have revealed a lack of consistency in methods for conducting observational rheumatic disease studies, a situation that can lead to findings that cannot be compared. Our purpose was to develop best-practice consensus statements about the use of administrative data for rheumatic disease research and surveillance in Canada.

Methods.

We convened 52 decision makers, epidemiologists, clinicians, and researchers to a 2-day workshop. Prior to this, participants formed working groups to examine 3 best-practice categories: case definitions, epidemiology methods, and comorbidity and outcomes measurement. The groups conducted systematic or scoping reviews on key topics. At the workshop, evidence from the reviews was presented and consensus-building techniques were used to develop the best-practice statements. The statements were presented, discussed, revised (as needed), and then subjected to voting.

Results.

Thirteen best-practice consensus statements were developed and endorsed by consensus. For the first category, these consensus statements addressed validation techniques for rheumatic disease case definitions and case ascertainment bias. The consensus statements for epidemiology methods focused on confounding and drug exposure measurement. For comorbidity and outcomes measurement, consensus statements were developed for multiple conditions, including osteoporosis and fragility fractures, cancer, infections, cardiovascular disease, and renal disease. Strengths and limitations of administrative data were identified in relation to each topic.

Conclusion.

Our best-practice consensus statements are consistent with other recent guidelines, including those for rheumatic disease biologics registries, but address additional issues specific to administrative data. Continuing work focuses on disseminating these consensus statements to multiple audiences.
Regulatory T Cell Induction, Migration, and Function in Transplantation
Authors: Burrell Bryna E. , Nakayama Yumi , Xu Jiangnan , Brinkman C. Colin , Bromberg Jonathan S.
Published: November 2012

Regulatory T cells (Treg) are important in maintaining immune homeostasis and in regulating a variety of immune responses, making them attractive targets for modulating immune-related diseases. Success in using induction or transfer of Treg in mice to mediate transplant tolerance suggests Treg-based therapies as mechanisms of long-term drug-free transplant tolerance in human patients. Although more work is needed, critical analyses suggest that key factors in Treg induction, migration, and function are important areas to concentrate investigative efforts and therapeutic development. Elucidation of basic biology will aid in translating data gleaned from mice to humans so that Treg therapies become a reality for patients.
Die owerheid se ingesteldheid ten opsigte van godsdiens: Die geskiktheid van die aktief-plurale opsie vir die toepassing van artikel 36 van die Nederlandse Geloofsbelydenis
Authors: Muller D. Francois
Published: November 2012

‘Wat behoort ’n owerheid se ingesteldheid ten opsigte van godsdiens te wees?’ is ’n vraagstuk waarvoor owerhede millennia lank reeds staan en wat tans al meer akuut word. J.M. Vorster het vyf opsies geïdentifiseer wat owerhede se ingesteldheid vergestalt en verkies die sogenaamde ‘aktief-plurale’ opsie. Hiervolgens behoort owerhede alle godsdienste en/of tradisies toe te laat en geeneen in besonder te bevoordeel nie. Artikel 36 van die Nederlandse Geloofsbelydenis (1561) verteenwoordig ’n vername verwoording van waartoe die Reformatoriese tradisie glo owerhede geroep word. Hierdie studie het dus die geskiktheid van die aktief-plurale opsie vir die toepassing van artikel 36 ondersoek. Die fokus van die ondersoek was op die agtergrond waarbinne en die doel waarmee die belydenis geformuleer is; die belangrikste tekstuele veranderinge (1905, 1982); asook die korrekte betekenis van artikel 36. Daar is vir lank gemeen dat owerhede onder meer die taak het om alle afgodery en valse godsdiens uit te roei. Sedert 1982 word bely dat owerhede (slegs) die verkondiging van die Evangelie moet beskerm om hierdie doelwitte sodoende te bereik. Alle owerhede ontvang hulle gesag van God en moet sy getroue dienaars wees – sonder om ’n dienaar van enige kerk en/of tradisie te word.Government’s attitude towards religion: the suitability of the active-plural option for the implementation of article 36 of the Belgic Confession. ‘What attitude should a government have towards religion?’ was not only a question that governments had struggled with for ages, but one currently growing in significance. J.M. Vorster identified five options that different governments had chosen and he selected the so-called ‘active-plural option’ as his preference. This option allowed governments to make provision for all religions or traditions, without the promotion of any specific one. Article 36 of the Belgic Confession (1561) represents a foremost statement of what the Reformed tradition believed governments were being called to. This study therefore investigated the suitability of the ‘active-neutral option’ for the implementation of article 36. This was done while exploring the specific circumstances within and goal with which the confession was formulated; the most important changes to the text of article 36 (1905, 1982) as well as its corrected meaning. Whereas there was a time when governments were seemed to have the task to, amongst others, destroy all idolatry and false worship, it was stated in 1982 that governments (only) had to protect the proclamation of the Gospel and in so doing achieved this destruction. All governments received their authority from God and were to be his faithful servants – without becoming servants of any church and/or tradition.