bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training for Generalization and Maintenance in RtI Implementation: Front‐Loading for Sustainability
Authors: Burns Matthew K. , Egan Andrea M. , Kunkel Amy K. , McComas Jennifer , Peterson Meredith M. , Rahn Naomi L. , Wilson Jennifer
Published: May 2013

Response to Intervention (RtI) is being implemented as a new initiative in PK‐12 schools with increasing frequency. However, the model must be sustained at the school level, which is potentially difficult due to a number of challenges brought about by systems change. This article applied the Stokes and Baer (1977) framework for programming for generalization and maintenance of behavior change to suggest specific activities in which schools could engage to better ensure RtI sustainability. We specifically discussed ways to (1) introduce to natural maintaining contingencies, (2) train with sufficient exemplars, (3) train loosely, (4) program common stimuli, (5) mediate generalization, and (6) train to generalize. Directions for future research are included.
Albumin administration protects against bilirubin‐induced auditory brainstem dysfunction in Gunn rat pups
Authors: Schreuder Andrea B. , Rice Ann C. , Vanikova Jana , Vitek Libor , Shapiro Steven M. , Verkade Henkjan J.
Published: May 2013

Background

Free bilirubin (Bf), the unbound fraction of unconjugated bilirubin (UCB), can induce neurotoxicity, including impairment of the auditory system, which can be assessed by brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs). We hypothesized that albumin might reduce the risk of neurotoxicity by decreasing Bf and its translocation into the brain.

Aim

To determine the effects of albumin on BAEPs and brain bilirubin content in two Gunn rat pup models of acute hyperbilirubinemia.

Methods

We used Gunn rat pups, which have a deficiency of the bilirubin‐conjugating enzyme UGT1A1. We induced haemolysis by injection of phenylhydrazine (phz) into 14‐days old pups. Subsequently, pups were treated with either i.p. human serum albumin (HSA; 2.5 g/kg; n = 8) or saline (control, n = 8). We induced acute neurotoxicity by injecting 16‐days old pups with sulphadimethoxine (sulpha) and treated them with either HSA (n = 9) or saline (control, n = 10). To assess bilirubin neurotoxicity, we used the validated BAEP method and compared relevant parameters; i.e. peak latency values and interwave interval (IWI) between peak I and peak II, a marker of acute neurotoxicity.

Results

Phz and sulpha significantly increased IWI I‐II by 26% and 29% (P < 0.05) in the haemolysis and the displacement model, respectively. Albumin completely prevented the increase of IWI I‐II in either model. The beneficial effect of albumin in the displacement‐model by means of normal BAEPs was in line with less bilirubin in the brain (NS). Interestingly, in the haemolysis model the accumulation of total bilirubin in the brain was unaltered, and BAEPs still appeared normal. This might advocate for a role of brain Bf which was calculated and showed that albumin treatment non‐significantly reduces Bf concentrations in brain, compared with saline treatment.

Conclusions

Albumin treatment is neuroprotective in acute hyperbilirubinemia in Gunn rat pups. Our present results underline the importance of functional diagnostic test of neurotoxicity above biochemical concentrations.
FDA and EMA end points: which outcome end points should we use in clinical trials in patients with irritable bowel syndrome?
Authors: Corsetti M. , Tack J.
Published: May 2013

Trial design and endpoints for the evaluation of drug efficacy in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) underwent major changes over the last two decades. A systematic review in the early 1990s concluded that there were few well‐designed and well‐executed treatment trials in IBS. Over the next decade, the so‐called binary endpoints were used in several clinical trials in IBS in the US, Europe and other parts of the world. In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a general guidance for the evaluation of symptom benefit in clinical trials based on patient‐reported outcome (PRO) measures, which had a major impact on trial design in IBS. In May 2012, the FDA recommended to use as provisional endpoint the quantification of two major IBS aspects, abdominal pain and disordered defecation, to assess the efficacy of pharmacological treatments in IBS. In the present issue of Neurogastroenterology & Motility, the performance of the FDA Responder Endpoint for clinical trials in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation was evaluated using data from two large Phase III clinical trials of linaclotide. The FDA interim endpoints are clinically relevant as they are also able to capture the smallest patient‐reported difference in the domain of Abdominal Pain intensity and Abnormal Defecation with good diagnostic accuracy. The FDA responder definition and the European Medicines Agency responder definitions generate similar response rates, while binary endpoints generate higher responder rates. The implications for optimalization and harmonisation are discussed.
Interpreting Thematic Relations Cyclically
Authors: Fujii Tomohiro
Published: May 2013

Defending the movement theory of control, Bowers (2008) suggests a possibility that thematic relations are interpreted in a cyclic manner. I argue that this conception of thematic interpretation enables the movement theory of control to respond to one existing empirical argument against it, which concerns cases where an argument apparently cannot raise from a non‐θ‐position to a θ‐position to allegedly satisfy the θ‐Criterion. The central proposal is that the problem does not arise if the θ‐Criterion is formulated to apply phase by phase to detect the thematic uninterpretability of the derivation in on‐line fashion. I also argue that the proposal allows us to further motivate the “equivalence of Merge and Move” thesis discussed by Chomsky (2004,2005,2008).
Spatial Organisation of Consumer Services in the Polycentric Urban Context: A Travel Behaviour Approach of Cinema‐Going in the City‐Region of Rotterdam
Authors: Romein Arie , Maat Kees
Published: May 2013

So far, the growing body of research on polycentric urban structures has paid relatively little attention to spatial patterns of service consumption. There have been suggestions that the conventional central place model can no longer adequately describe and explain the patterns in contemporary polycentric urban areas and regions, and that it should be replaced by a new ‘network’ model. Though the network model is still in need of elaboration, several of its key notions are recognisable in this case study on cinema‐going in the city‐region of Rotterdam. However, this study also makes clear that the current ‘prototype’ of the network model needs to be enhanced by attention to the broad issue why people choose to visit certain service venues, including considerations regarding spatial factors but non‐spatial factors like qualities of service venues, before it can serve as a valid model for future study.
Association, among very‐low‐birthweight neonates, between red blood cell transfusions in the week after birth and severe intraventricular hemorrhage
Authors: Christensen Robert D. , Baer Vickie L. , Lambert Diane K. , Ilstrup Sarah J. , Eggert Larry D. , Henry Erick
Published: May 2013

Background

Previous reports describe a statistical association, among very‐low‐birthweight (VLBW, <1500 g) neonates, between red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in the first days after birth and development of severe intraventricular (brain) hemorrhage (IVH).

Study Design and Methods

We hypothesized that after we established a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) transfusion management program in 2009, a decrease in early (first week after birth) RBC transfusion rate and a decrease in the incidence of severe IVH occurred concomitantly.

Results

During a 9‐year period 2716 VLBW neonates were admitted to our NICUs. In 2004, 58% of VLBW neonates received one or more RBC transfusions during the first week. After a transfusion compliance program was established in 2009, this rate declined, reaching 25% by 2012. In parallel, the severe IVH rate also declined, from 17% in 2004 to 8% in 2012 (R2 = 0.73). IVH occurred in 27% of those who received a RBC transfusion during the first week versus less than 2% of those with no early transfusion (p < 0.001). The decrease in IVH rate occurred exclusively among neonates born in an Intermountain Healthcare perinatal center and not among those initially cared for in an “outside” hospital and subsequently transported to an Intermountain NICU.

Conclusions

It remains unclear whether transfusing VLBW neonates during the first days after birth is a proximate cause of IVH. However, the present report is consistent with previous studies showing that successful efforts to reduce early RBC transfusions is associated with a decrease in the incidence of severe IVH.
Novel acyclic nucleotide analogues GS‐343074 and GS‐424044 demonstrate antiproliferative and pro‐apoptotic activity in canine neoplastic cell lines
Authors: Lawrence J. A. , Huelsmeyer M. K. , Thamm D. H. , Tumas D. B. , Birkus G. , Kurzman I. , Vail D. M.
Published: May 2013

GS‐9219, a novel prodrug of the nucleotide analogue 9‐(2‐phosphonylmethoxyethyl) guanine (PMEG) has significant activity as monotherapy in dogs with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Phase I trials have been initiated in humans based on the encouraging activity observed in canine lymphoma. Two new analogues ofGS‐9219 (GS‐343074 andGS‐424044) were recently produced for evaluation as potential novel antineoplastic agents against solid tumours. As a preclinical step, effect ofGS‐343074 andGS‐424044 were evaluated against ten canine cancer cell lines for antiproliferative effect. Both analogues displayed antiproliferative activity against multiple canine cancer cell lines, althoughGS‐343074 was more potent and of broader spectrum compared toGS‐424044. Flow cytometric analysis of cells that experienced growth inhibition support apoptotic death as a mechanism of action for both analogues. On the basis ofin vitroresults described here,GS‐343074 andGS‐424044 show promise as novel anticancer agents in canine cancer.
High-resolution transmission electron microscope observations of multiwalled carbon nanotube microstructures grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Gaillard Mireille , Kübel Christian , Boulmer-Leborgne Chantal , Wang Di , Semmar Nadjib , Petit Agnès , Millon Eric
Published: May 2013

Vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are grown by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and are analyzed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. With this process, the growth of vertically aligned and densely packed CNTs can only be obtained with an Fe catalyst on an Si3N4 support or with an Ni catalyst on a TiN support. The authors observe that base- and tip-growth modes occur simultaneously for the Fe/Si3N4 system, whereas in the Ni/TiN system only the base-growth mode is observed. When using the multilayer catalyst FeNi (2:1), growth occurs on both supports. These structures are quite similar to those obtained with a pure Fe or Ni catalyst on their corresponding support. Growth at lower temperatures, down to 550 °C, shows that at temperatures high enough to just activate the catalyst, the structures obtained are not significantly influenced by the growth temperature, but rather by the catalyst-support system and other growth conditions.
Effect of chemical bonding states in TaOx base layers on rectifying bipolar resistive switching characteristics
Authors: Kim Jonggi , Mok In-Su , Kim Youngjae , Lee Kyumin , Ko Dae-Hong , Sohn Hyunchul
Published: May 2013

In this study, the authors investigated the rectifying bipolar resistive switching characteristics of Pt/HfO2/TaOx/Pt heterostacks with respect to the chemical bonding states of the TaOx base layer and the physical properties of the insulator layer. The authors demonstrated that the migration of oxygen ions at the interface between the HfO2 insulator layer and the TaOx base layer produced the rectifying bipolar resistive switching, and the switching current could be controlled via the oxygen concentration in the TaOx layer. They also observed that the current at the high-resistance state decreased with increasing thickness of the HfO2 insulator layer. Rectifying bipolar resistive switching behavior was additionally demonstrated by using an Al2O3 layer as an insulator instead of HfO2.
Cyclophosphamide Triggers Follicle Activation and “Burnout”; AS101 Prevents Follicle Loss and Preserves Fertility
Authors: Kalich-Philosoph Lital , Roness Hadassa , Carmely Alon , Fishel-Bartal Michal , Ligumsky Hagai , Paglin Shoshana , Wolf Ido , Kanety Hannah , Sredni Benjamin , Meirow Dror
Published: May 2013

Cyclophosphamide activates dormant follicle growth, leading to depletion of ovarian reserve, and AS101 prevents this activation, rescuing fertility in mice.
The Gracefully Aging Immune System
Authors: Boraschi Diana , Aguado M. Teresa , Dutel Catherine , Goronzy Jörg , Louis Jacques , Grubeck-Loebenstein Beatrix , Rappuoli Rino , Del Giudice Giuseppe
Published: May 2013

Strategies are being developed to overcome aging-associated changes in the immune response.
Synthetic Generation of Influenza Vaccine Viruses for Rapid Response to Pandemics
Authors: Dormitzer Philip R. , Suphaphiphat Pirada , Gibson Daniel G. , Wentworth David E. , Stockwell Timothy B. , Algire Mikkel A. , Alperovich Nina , Barro Mario , Brown David M. , Craig Stewart , Dattilo Brian M. , Denisova Evgeniya A. , De Souza Ivna , Eickmann Markus , Dugan Vivien G. , Ferrari Annette , Gomila Raul C. , Han Liqun , Judge Casey , Mane Sarthak , Matrosovich Mikhail , Merryman Chuck , Palladino Giuseppe , Palmer Gene A. , Spencer Terika , Strecker Thomas , Trusheim Heidi , Uhlendorff Jennifer , Wen Yingxia , Yee Anthony C. , Zaveri Jayshree , Zhou Bin , Becker Stephan , Donabedian Armen , Mason Peter W. , Glass John I. , Rappuoli Rino , Venter J. Craig
Published: May 2013

Synthesis of viral genes from sequence information allows rapid generation of influenza vaccine viruses, facilitating rapid responses to influenza pandemics.
Bringing Down the House by Targeting the Scaffold
Authors: Narla Goutham
Published: May 2013

The scaffold protein IQGAP1 coordinates MAPK signaling and is a therapeutic target for RAS driven cancers
Highly Dynamic Cellular-Level Response of Symbiotic Coral to a Sudden Increase in Environmental Nitrogen
Authors: Kopp C. , Pernice M. , Domart-Coulon I. , Djediat C. , Spangenberg J. E. , Alexander D. T. L. , Hignette M. , Meziane T. , Meibom A.
Published: May 2013

Metabolic interactions with endosymbiotic photosynthetic dinoflagellate
Symbiodinium
spp. are fundamental to reef-building corals (Scleractinia) thriving in nutrient-poor tropical seas. Yet, detailed understanding at the single-cell level of nutrient assimilation, translocation, and utilization within this fundamental symbiosis is lacking. Using pulse-chase
15
N labeling and quantitative ion microprobe isotopic imaging (NanoSIMS; nanoscale secondary-ion mass spectrometry), we visualized these dynamic processes in tissues of the symbiotic coral
Pocillopora damicornis
at the subcellular level. Assimilation of ammonium, nitrate, and aspartic acid resulted in rapid incorporation of nitrogen into uric acid crystals (after ~45 min), forming temporary N storage sites within the dinoflagellate endosymbionts. Subsequent intracellular remobilization of this metabolite was accompanied by translocation of nitrogenous compounds to the coral host, starting at ~6 h. Within the coral tissue, nitrogen is utilized in specific cellular compartments in all four epithelia, including mucus chambers, Golgi bodies, and vesicles in calicoblastic cells. Our study shows how nitrogen-limited symbiotic corals take advantage of sudden changes in nitrogen availability; this opens new perspectives for functional studies of nutrient storage and remobilization in microbial symbioses in changing reef environments.

IMPORTANCE
The methodology applied, combining transmission electron microscopy with nanoscale secondary-ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) imaging of coral tissue labeled with stable isotope tracers, allows quantification and submicrometric localization of metabolic fluxes in an intact symbiosis. This study opens the way for investigations of physiological adaptations of symbiotic systems to nutrient availability and for increasing knowledge of global nitrogen and carbon biogeochemical cycling.
The Outer Surface Lipoprotein VolA Mediates Utilization of Exogenous Lipids by Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Pride Aaron C. , Herrera Carmen M. , Guan Ziqiang , Giles David K. , Trent M. Stephen
Published: May 2013

Previous work from our laboratory showed that the Gram-negative aquatic pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
can take up a much wider repertoire of fatty acids than other Gram-negative organisms. The current work elaborated on the ability of
V. cholerae
to exploit an even more diverse pool of lipid nutrients from its environment. We have demonstrated that the bacterium can use lysophosphatidylcholine as a metabolite for growth. Using a combination of thin-layer chromatography and mass spectrometry, we also showed that lysophosphatidylcholine-derived fatty acid moieties can be used for remodeling the
V. cholerae
membrane architecture. Furthermore, we have identified a lysophospholipase, VolA (
Vibrio
outer membrane lysophospholipase A), required for these activities. The enzyme is well conserved in
Vibrio
species, is coexpressed with the outer membrane fatty acid transporter FadL, is one of very few surface-exposed lipoprotein enzymes to be identified in Gram-negative bacteria and the first instance of a surface lipoprotein phospholipase. We propose a model whereby the bacterium efficiently couples the liberation of fatty acid from lysophosphatidylcholine to its subsequent metabolic uptake. An expanded ability to scavenge diverse environmental lipids at the bacterial surface increases overall bacterial fitness and promotes homeoviscous adaptation through membrane remodeling.

IMPORTANCE
Our understanding of how bacteria utilize environmental lipid sources has been limited to lipids such as fatty acids and cholesterol. This narrow scope may be attributed to both the intricate nature of lipid uptake mechanisms and the diversity of lipid substrates encountered within an ecological niche. By examining the ability of the pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
to utilize exogenous lipids, we uncovered a surface-exposed lipoprotein (VolA) that is required for processing the prevalent host lipid lysophosphatidylcholine. VolA functions as a lipase liberating a fatty acid from exogenous lysophospholipids. The freed fatty acid is then transported into the cell, serving as a carbon source, or shunted into phospholipid synthesis for membrane assembly. A limited number of surface-exposed lipoproteins have been found in Gram-negative organisms, and few have enzymatic function. This work highlights the ability of bacteria to exploit exogenous lipids for both maintenance of the membrane and carbon source acquisition.
Injury initiates unfavourable weight gain and obesity markers in youth
Authors: Myer Gregory D , Faigenbaum Avery D , Foss Kim Barber , Xu Yingying , Khoury Jane , Dolan Lawrence M , McCambridge Teri M , Hewett Timothy E
Published: May 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of knee injuries with subsequent changes in body mass index and body composition during maturation in young females.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal study design was employed to evaluate young females active in soccer or basketball (N=862). Participants who completed at least 1-year follow-up to provide consecutive annual measures of BMIZ and %fat were included in the study analysis to determine the effect of knee injuries on the trajectory of these obesity markers in youth.

Results

Of the 71 reported knee injuries, 12 (17%) occurred in athletes at the prepubertal stage, 24 (34%) in athletes at the pubertal stage, and 35 (49%) in postpubertal athletes. Controlling for the effects of maturation, female athletes who reported knee injury demonstrated a greater yearly increase in BMIZ (LS means and 95% CI for the injured group=0.039 (−0.012 to 0.089), for the non-injured group=−0.019 (−0.066 to 0.029), and group difference=0.057 (0.005 to 0.11), p=0.03) and in %body fat (LS means and 95% CI for the injured group=1.05 (0.45 to 1.65), for the non-injured group=0.22 (−0.21 to 0.064), and group difference=0.83 (0.21 to 1.45), p=0.009), compared to those without knee injuries. This indicates that the athletes with knee injuries will increase their body mass index percentile by up to 5 units more than someone of the same age without an injury, and in body fat by up to 1.5%, compared to their non-injured peers.

Conclusions

The present findings indicate that knee injury during the growing years may be associated with unfavourable changes in body composition.
Sustainability of knowledge translation interventions in healthcare decision-making: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Tricco Andrea C , Cogo Elise , Ashoor Huda , Perrier Laure , McKibbon K Ann , Grimshaw Jeremy M , Straus Sharon E
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Knowledge translation (KT also known as research utilisation, translational medicine and implementation science) is a dynamic and iterative process that includes the synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically sound application of knowledge to improve health. After the implementation of KT interventions, their impact on relevant outcomes should be monitored. The objectives of this scoping review are to: (1) conduct a systematic search of the literature to identify the impact on healthcare outcomes beyond 1 year, or beyond the termination of funding of the initiative of KT interventions targeting chronic disease management for end-users including patients, clinicians, public health officials, health services managers and policy-makers; (2) identify factors that influence sustainability of effective KT interventions; (3) identify how sustained change from KT interventions should be measured; and (4) develop a framework for assessing sustainability of KT interventions.

Methods and analysis

Comprehensive searches of relevant electronic databases (eg, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), websites of funding agencies and websites of healthcare provider organisations will be conducted to identify relevant material. We will include experimental, quasi-experimental and observational studies providing information on the sustainability of KT interventions targeting chronic disease management in adults and focusing on end-users including patients, clinicians, public health officials, health services managers and policy-makers. Two reviewers will pilot-test the screening criteria and data abstraction form. They will then screen all citations, full articles and abstract data in duplicate independently. The results of the scoping review will be synthesised descriptively and used to develop a framework to assess the sustainability of KT interventions.

Discussion and dissemination

Our results will help inform end-users (ie, patients, clinicians, public health officials, health services managers and policy-makers) regarding the sustainability of KT interventions. Our dissemination plan includes publications, presentations, website posting and a stakeholder meeting.
The Patient-Reported Incident in Hospital Instrument (PRIH-I): assessments of data quality, test–retest reliability and hospital-level reliability
Authors: Bjertnaes Oyvind , Skudal Kjersti Eeg , Iversen Hilde Hestad , Lindahl Anne Karin
Published: May 2013

Background

The objective of this study was to test the data quality, test–retest reliability and hospital-level reliability of the Patient-Reported Incident in Hospital Instrument (PRIH-I).

Methods

13 incident questions were included in a national patient-experience survey in Norway during the spring of 2011. All questions and a composite incident index were assessed by calculating missing-item rates, test–retest reliability and hospital-level reliability. A multivariate linear regression on a global item regarding incorrect treatment was used to assess the main sources of variation in patient-perceived incorrect treatment at hospitals.

Results

Five of the 13 patient-incident questions had a missing-item rate of >20%. Only one item met the criterion of 0.7 for test–retest reliability (wrong or delayed diagnosis), seven items had a score of >0.5, while the remainder had a reliability score of <0.5. However, the reliability was >0.7 for six of 10 items tested at the hospital level, and >0.6 for the remaining four items. A patient-incident index based on 12 of the incident items had no missing data, the test–retest reliability was 0.6 and the hospital-level reliability was 0.85.

Conclusions

The PRIH-I comprises 13 questions about patient-perceived incidents in hospitals, and can be easily and cost-effectively included in national patient-experience surveys with an acceptable increase in respondent burden. Although the missing-item rate and test–retest reliability were poor for several items, the hospital-level reliability was satisfactory for most of the items. The incident items contribute to a patient-reported incident index, with excellent data quality and hospital-level reliability.
A reconstruction of modified holographic Ricci dark energy in f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Pasqua Antonio , Chattopadhyay Surajit , Khomenko Iuliia
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we consider a recently proposed model of dark energy (DE) know as modified holographic Ricci DE (which is function of the Hubble parameter and its first derivative with respect to cosmic time, t) in light of the f(R, T) model of modified gravity, considering the particular model f(R, T) = μR + νT, with μ and ν constants. The equation of state parameter ωΛ approaches but never reaches the value −1, implying a quintessence-like behavior of the model. The deceleration parameter q passes from decelerated to accelerated phase at a redshift of z ≈ 0.2, showing also a small dependence from the values of the parameters considered. Thanks to the statefinder diagnostic analysis, we observed that the ΛCDM phase for the considered model is attainable. We observed that the fractional energy densities for DE and dark matter, ΩΛ and Ωm, have an increasing and a decreasing pattern, respectively, with the evolution of the universe, indicating an evolution from matter to DE dominated universe. Finally, studying the squared speed of the sound [Formula: see text] for our model, we found that it is classically stable.
TOWARDS OIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION: IMPACT OF DEVELOPING 8 (D-8) PREFERENTIAL TRADE AGREEMENT
Authors: OTHMAN JAMAL , ACAR MUSTAFA , JAFARI YAGHOOB
Published: May 2013

The Developing 8 (D-8) comprises of eight developing countries (Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran, Egypt and Nigeria), all of which are OIC members with large Muslim populations. The D-8 has formed a freer trade alliance with the objectives to create new opportunities and enhance intra-trade relations while providing better standards of living for its citizens. This paper examines the trade impact of possible trade liberalization among the D-8 countries using a multi-country computable general equilibrium model, i.e., GTAP. Results indicate that while the D-8 intra-trade is expected to increase very substantially, not all member countries will experience a welfare gain under a free trade arrangement. Likewise, the impact on economic sectors differs substantially across countries.
CANARDS FROM CHUA'S CIRCUIT
Authors: GINOUX JEAN-MARC , LLIBRE JAUME , CHUA LEON O.
Published: May 2013

The aim of this work is to extend Benoît's theorem for the generic existence of "canards" solutions in singularly perturbed dynamical systems of dimension three with one fast variable to those of dimension four. Then, it is established that this result can be found according to the Flow Curvature Method. Applications to Chua's cubic model of dimension three and four enable to state the existence of "canards" solutions in such systems.
COMPLETE PERIODICITY ANALYSIS FOR A DISCONTINUOUS RECURRENCE EQUATION
Authors: CHANG YEN CHIH , CHENG SUI SUN
Published: May 2013

A nonlinear three-term recurrence relation arising from seeking the steady states of a cellular neural network with bang bang control is studied. A complete analysis of its periodic behavior is given. In particular, we show that each solution is periodic and its prime period can be determined by two of its consecutive terms. By means of our periodicity analysis, we may then solve the steady state problem which to our knowledge is not solved by other means.
NUMBER OF LIMIT CYCLES OF SOME POLYNOMIAL LIÉNARD SYSTEMS
Authors: XU WEIJIAO , LI CUIPING
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we study the number of limit cycles of some polynomial Liénard systems. Using the methods of the Melnikov functions and Hopf, homoclinic and heteroclinic bifurcation theory, we prove that H(2, 5) ≥ 4, H(6, 5) ≥ 7, H(10, 5) ≥ 11.
BIFURCATIONS OF LIMIT CYCLES FOR A PERTURBED CUBIC SYSTEM WITH DOUBLE FIGURE EIGHT LOOP
Authors: ZHANG TONGHUA , ZANG HONG , TADE MOSE O.
Published: May 2013

This paper is concerned with the distribution and number of limit cycles for a cubic Hamiltonian system under cubic perturbation. The fact that there exist seven limit cycles is proved. The different distributions of limit cycles are given by using the methods of bifurcation theory and qualitative analysis, and the distributions of seven limit cycles are newly established.
PERIODICALLY PULSED IMMUNOTHERAPY IN A MATHEMATICAL MODEL OF TUMOR-IMMUNE INTERACTION
Authors: WEI HSIU-CHUAN , LIN JENN-TSANN
Published: May 2013

Immunotherapy is one of the most recent approaches in cancer therapy. In this paper, a mathematical model of tumor-immune interaction with periodically pulsed immunotherapy, which is described by impulsive differential equations, is considered. The ODE system is turned into a discrete-time dynamical system for bifurcation analysis. A mathematical analysis is performed to determine the minimum dosage for successful treatment. An adaptive grid method is then developed to identify the fixed points and their bifurcations. The effects of continuous and pulsed treatment strategies are compared. The interindividual variability is studied by one-parameter and two-parameter bifurcation diagrams. Increasing the strength of the immune response improves the outcome of the treatment if the immune response is weak. However, it becomes a drawback when the strength of the immune response increases over a certain threshold. Multiple attractors exist so that a treatment may result in a tumor-free state, a large tumor, or a middle-sized tumor depending on initial conditions. It is believed that the numerical method proposed in this paper can be applied to a class of mathematical models of periodically pulsed drug therapies.
BREAKING A CHAOTIC IMAGE ENCRYPTION ALGORITHM BASED ON MODULO ADDITION AND XOR OPERATION
Authors: LI CHENGQING , LIU YUANSHENG , ZHANG LEO YU , CHEN MICHAEL Z. Q.
Published: May 2013

This paper re-evaluates the security of a chaotic image encryption algorithm called MCKBA/ HCKBA and finds that it can be broken efficiently with two known plain-images and the corresponding cipher-images. In addition, it is reported that a previously proposed breaking on MCKBA/HCKBA can be further improved by reducing the number of chosen plain-images from four to two. The two attacks are both based on the properties of solving a composite function involving the carry bit, which is composed of the modulo addition and the bitwise OR operations. Both rigorous theoretical analysis and detailed experimental results are provided.
WAVE PROPAGATION FOR MONOSTABLE 2-D LATTICE DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS WITH DELAY
Authors: CHENG CUI-PING , SU YOU-HUI , FENG ZHAOSHENG
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we are concerned with the wave propagation for a system of 2-D lattice differential equations with delay. Under the monostable assumption, the asymptotic behavior, the monotonicity and uniqueness of traveling wave are established when the wave speed is greater than or equal to the minimal wave speed c*(θ) > 0. In addition, the directional dependence of the minimal wave speed is analyzed numerically.
POLYAK TYPE EQUATIONS FOR VIRTUAL ARROW DIAGRAM INVARIANTS IN THE ANNULUS
Authors: MORTIER ARNAUD
Published: May 2013

We describe the space of arrow diagram formulas for virtual knot diagrams in the annulus ℝ × 𝕊1as the kernel of a linear map, inspired from a conjecture due to Polyak. As a main application, we slightly improve Grishanov–Vassiliev's theorem for planar chain invariants.
SOME ASPECTS OF GENERALIZED MODIFIED GRAVITY MODELS
Authors: MYRZAKULOV R. , SEBASTIANI L. , ZERBINI S.
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we review some general aspects of modified gravity theories, investigating mathematical and physical properties and, more specifically, the feature of viable and realistic models able to reproduce the dark energy (DE) epoch and the early-time inflation. We will discuss the black hole (BH) solutions in generalized theories of gravity: it is of fundamental interest to understand how properties and laws of BHs in General Relativity (GR) can be addressed in the framework of modified theories. In particular, we will discuss the energy issue and the possibility to derive the First Law of thermodynamics from the field equations. Then, in the analysis of cosmological solutions, we will pay particular attention to the occurrence of finite-time future singularities and to the possibility to avoid them in [Formula: see text]-gravity. Furthermore, realistic models of F(R)-gravity will be analyzed in detail. A general feature occurring in matter era will be shown, namely, the high derivatives of Hubble parameter may be influenced by the high frequency oscillation of the DE and some correction term may be required in order to stabilize the theory at high redshift. The inflationary scenario is also carefully analyzed and a unified description of the universe is evolved. In the final part of the work, we will look at the last developments in modified gravity, namely, we will investigate cosmological and BH solutions in a covariant field theory of gravity and we will introduce the extended "teleparallel" F(T)-gravity theories. A nice application to the dark matter (DM) problem will be presented.
HIGHER-DIMENSIONAL CHARGED BLACK HOLES AS CONSTRAINED SYSTEMS
Authors: NIETO J. A. , LEÓN E. A. , VILLANUEVA V. M.
Published: May 2013

We construct a Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulation for charged black holes in a d-dimensional maximally symmetric spherical space. By considering first new variables that give raise to an interesting dimensional reduction of the problem, we show that the introduction of a charge term is compatible with classical solutions to Einstein equations. In fact, we derive the well-known solutions for charged black holes, specially in the case of d = 4, where the Reissner–Nordström solution holds, without reference to Einstein field equations. We argue that our procedure may be of help for clarifying symmetries, dynamics and some quantum aspects of black holes.
VALIDATION OF AN ELECTROGONIOMETRY SYSTEM AS A MEASURE OF KNEE KINEMATICS DURING ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING
Authors: Urwin Samuel G. , Kader Deiary F. , Caplan Nick , Gibson Alan St. Clair , Stewart Su
Published: May 2013

Purpose: The increasing use of electrogoniometry (ELG) in clinical research requires the validation of different instrumentation. The purpose of this investigation was to examine the concurrent validity of an ELG system during activities of daily living. Methods: A total of 10 asymptomatic participants gave informed consent to participate. A Biometrics SG150 electrogoniometer was directly compared to a 12 camera three-dimensional motion analysis system during walking, stair ascent, stair descent, sit to stand, and stand to sit activities for the measurement of the right knee angle. Analysis of validity was undertaken by linear regression. Standard error of estimate (SEE), standardized SEE (SSEE), and Pearson's correlation coefficient r were computed for paired trials between systems for each functional activity. Results: The 95% confidence interval of SEE was reasonable between systems across walking (LCI = 2.43°; UCI = 2.91°), stair ascent (LCI = 2.09°; UCI = 2.42°), stair descent (LCI = 1.79°; UCI = 2.10°), sit to stand (LCI = 1.22°; UCI = 1.41°), and stand to sit (LCI = 1.17°; UCI = 1.34°). Pearson's correlation coefficient r across walking (LCI = 0.983; UCI = 0.990), stair ascent (LCI = 0.995; UCI = 0.997), stair descent (LCI = 0.995; UCI = 0.997), sit to stand (LCI = 0.998; UCI = 0.999), and stand to sit (LCI = 0.996; UCI = 0.997) was indicative of a strong linear relationship between systems. Conclusion: ELG is a valid method of measuring the knee angle during activities representative of daily living. The range is within that suggested to be acceptable for the clinical evaluation of patients with musculoskeletal conditions.
BRODIE'S ABSCESS MIMICKING AS OF MALIGNANCY: CASE REPORT WITH RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES
Authors: Amanullah Md. Farid , Ansari Sajid , Ahmad Kaleem
Published: May 2013

Brodie's abscess is described by a localized collection of abscess usually found in metaphysic of long bones. On imaging it may mimic other malignant and benign bony lesions which need histopathological correlation. After confirming the diagnosis, it can be successfully treated with surgical debridement and proper antibiotics. We report a case of 15 year old female with chronic infection of tibia mimicking as malignancy for which MRI and histopathology was confirmatory in our diagnosis.
IN VITRO PATELLAR TRACKING PATTERN MEASUREMENT BASED ON MOVING LEAST SQUARES CURVE FITTING
Authors: QIAN LI W. , WANG JIAN P. , YE MING , WANG CHENG T.
Published: May 2013

Patellar tracking is important to the diagnosis of patellofemoral (PF) joint disorders, the rehabilitation assessment, and prosthesis design. The aim of this study was to find out the general pattern in the movement of the PF joint. An optical tracking system was utilized to measure the knee joint movement in vitro. Five healthy right legs amputated from cadavers were used to simulate a normal squat with a material testing machine. In order to describe the PF motion, an effective customized coordinate system (COS) was established based on anatomical landmarks. To reduce the noise in the data and to retain the inherent continuity in the knee joint motion measurement, a basic moving least squares (MLS) method was used to fit the collected data. In fitted curves corresponding to characteristics of the PF joint movement, general patterns were found in patellar flexion, anterior, and distal translations. These results are highly valuable to support surgeons in making clinical decisions. The smooth fitted curves are potentially useful for kinetics analysis and joint load estimation.
EFFECT OF RESIDUAL STRESS AND REINFORCEMENT GEOMETRY IN AN ANISOTROPIC COMPOSITE ROTATING DISC HAVING VARYING THICKNESS
Authors: GUPTA VANDANA , SINGH S. B.
Published: May 2013

The influence of the thermal residual stress and reinforcement geometry on the creep behavior of a composite disc has been analyzed in this paper. The creep analysis in a rotating disc made of Al-SiC (particle/whisker) composite having hyperbolically varying thickness has been carried out using anisotropic Hoffman yield criterion and results obtained are compared with those using Hill's criterion ignoring difference in yield stresses. The steady state creep behavior has been described by Sherby's creep law. The creep parameters characterizing difference in yield stresses have been used from the available experimental results in literature. It is observed that the stresses are not much affected by the presence of thermal residual stress, while thermal residual stress introduces significant change in the strain rates in an anisotropic rotating disc. Secondly, it is noticed that the steady state creep rates in whisker reinforced disc with/without residual stress are observed to be significantly lower than those observed in particle reinforced disc with/without residual stress. It is concluded that the presence of residual stress in an anisotropic disc with varying thickness needs attention for designing a disc.
Stable isotopes of organics and inorganics, clay mineralogy and chemical environment of an Aptian lacustrine succession in northeastern Brazil
Authors: Gratzer Reinhard , Neumann Virgínio Henrique , Vortisch Walter , Rocha Dunaldson E. A. , Bechtel Achim
Published: May 2013

The studied Aptian lacustrine succession of the continental Jatobá Rift Basin varies mainly between pure carbonates (predominantly laminated limestones), marls and shales, with some intercalations of presumably deltaic sandstone complexes. In accordance with geochemical data, the occurrence of dolomite indicates intensive microbial activity in a stratified water column with slightly enhanced salinity. Petrographic data prove mild weathering conditions. Aggregates of authigenic smectite observed in sandstones, probably representing transformed volcanogenic glass particles, strongly indicate explosive volcanic activity. Occasionally occurring dolomite seems to have been formed due to intensive microbial activity under moderately increased salinity conditions. Potential hydrocarbon source rocks containing Type I organic matter (OM) were deposited during various phases of the Aptian. Enhanced biological productivity is indicated by bulk organic geochemical data (C
org
, hydrogen index, extraction yield) and δ
13
C values of carbonates within peletoidal and laminated limestone layers. Carbon-isotope ratios of carbonates argue for OM cycling and remineralization. High δ
18
O values of carbonates are attributed to periods of lower lake levels. A major contribution of aquatic organisms (green algae, microalgae, zooplankton) and minor input from macrophytes and land plants to OM accumulation is indicated by
n
-alkane distributions, steroid composition and δ
13
C values of individual biomarkers. Microbial communities included heterotrophic bacteria and cyanobacteria, as well as purple and green sulphur bacteria. The sediments were deposited in an alkaline palaeolake. Highly reducing (saline) bottom water conditions and a stratified water column existed during OM accumulation of the Crato Formation. This is indicated by low pristane/phytane, gammacerane index, and the presence of β-carotane and aryl isoprenoids. Differences in OM composition and stable isotope data reflect the evolution of the basin from a stratified saline lake to a freshwater environment with limited potential for OM preservation.
The (pro)renin receptor and body fluid homeostasis
Authors: Cao Theresa , Feng Yumei
Published: May 2013

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has long been established as one of the major mechanisms of hypertension through the increased levels of angiotensin (ANG) II and its resulting effect on the sympathetic nerve activity, arterial vasoconstriction, water reabsorption, and retention, etc. In the central nervous system, RAS activation affects body fluid homeostasis through increases in sympathetic nerve activity, water intake, food intake, and arginine vasopressin secretion. Previous studies, however, have shown that ANG II can be made in the brain, and it could possibly be through a new component called the (pro)renin receptor. This review intends to summarize the central and peripheral effects of the PRR on body fluid homeostasis.
Bai-Hu-Tang, Ancient Chinese Medicine Formula, May Provide a New Complementary Treatment Option for Sepsis
Authors: Lin Chien-Jung , Su Yi-Chang , Lee Cheng-Hung , Li Tsai-Chung , Chen Yun-An , Lin Sunny Jui-Shan
Published: May 2013

Bai-Hu-Tang(BHT) has been broadly applied to treating the early stage of acute infection with systemic inflammation for two thousand years in Chinese medicine. We explore whether BHT is beneficial in treating sepsis and its effects on proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6, and anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10, in which both play key roles in the progress of sepsis. Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized into six groups, with cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) performed in all but the sham-control group. Rats in CLP + BHT-L6and CLP + BHT-H6groups, respectively, received a low (0.45 g/kg) and high doses (0.9 g/kg) of BHT, 6 hrs postoperatively. CLP + BHT-L12and CLP + BHT-H12groups, respectively, received low and high doses of BHT, 12 hrs postoperatively. Sham-control and sepsis-control groups received distilled water (1 mL) as vehicle, 6 hrs postoperatively. Serial blood samples were drawn before operation, as baseline, and at 4, 8, and 12 hrs postoperatively for IL-6 and IL-10 assay. All rats were monitored for 3 days for survival study. Rats in the CLP + BHT-H6group had significantly higher survival rate (80%) and significantly lower levels of both IL-6 and IL-10 at 12 hrs postoperatively than those in the sepsis-control group. Results suggested that BHT may be a new complementary treatment option for sepsis.
XPS Study of Mechanically Activated YBa2Cu3O6+δand NdBa2Cu3O6+δ
Authors: Fetisov A. V. , Kozhina G. A. , Estemirova S. Kh. , Fetisov V. B. , Mitrofanov V. Ya. , Uporov S. A. , Vedmid' L. B.
Published: May 2013

Oxides RBa2Cu3O6+δ(R=Y, Nd) subjected to mechanical activation in AGO-2 mill have been studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermal analysis, and magnetometry. It has been shown that mechanoactivation accelerates chemical degradation under the impact of H2O and CO2in YBa2Cu3O6+δsamples. Degradation occurs in the standard way. Investigation of mechanically activated NdBa2Cu3O6+δhas revealed other results. It has been suggested that CO2can diffuse into its structure more freely than in YBa2Cu3O6+δ; as a result, carbonization may proceed directly in the volume of NdBa2Cu3O6+δand independently of the hydrolysis process. In addition, the mechanism of interaction between the oxide and water is not active and not “traditional” for the homologous series REBa2Cu3O6+δ(where RE = rare earth and Y)—the characteristic “color” phase (Nd2BaCuO5) is not formed during hydrolysis. It is known that high-temperature treatment of NdBa2Cu3O6+δoxide results in partial substitution of cations Ba by Nd; which is accompanied by decrease in the superconducting transition temperature and formation of the impurity phase Ba2Cu3O5+y. According to our data, mechanical activation of the resulting solid solution Nd1+xBa2−xCu3O6+δunexpectedly has led to the reverse redistribution of cations, which has been manifested in the complete disappearance of the impurity phase and increase inTc.
A Liouville Property of Holomorphic Maps
Authors: Yu Chengjie
Published: May 2013

We prove a Liouville property of holomorphic maps from a complete Kähler manifold with nonnegative holomorphic bisectional curvature to a complete simply connected Kähler manifold with a certain assumption on the sectional curvature.
C-Lobe of Lactoferrin: The Whole Story of the Half-Molecule
Authors: Sharma Sujata , Sinha Mau , Kaushik Sanket , Kaur Punit , Singh Tej P.
Published: May 2013

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding diferric glycoprotein present in most of the exocrine secretions. The major role of lactoferrin, which is found abundantly in colostrum, is antimicrobial action for the defense of mammary gland and the neonates. Lactoferrin consists of two equal halves, designated as N-lobe and C-lobe, each of which contains one iron-binding site. While the N-lobe of lactoferrin has been extensively studied and is known for its enhanced antimicrobial effect, the C-lobe of lactoferrin mediates various therapeutic functions which are still being discovered. The potential of the C-lobe in the treatment of gastropathy, diabetes, and corneal wounds and injuries has been indicated. This review provides the details of the proteolytic preparation of C-lobe, and interspecies comparisons of its sequence and structure, as well as the scope of its therapeutic applications.