bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Viral Dissemination in Mice Infected with Yellow Fever Virus Strain 17D
Authors: Erickson Andrea K. , Pfeiffer Julie K.
Published: September 2013

Arboviruses such as yellow fever virus (YFV) are transmitted between arthropod vectors and vertebrate hosts. While barriers limiting arbovirus population diversity have been observed in mosquitoes, whether barriers exist in vertebrate hosts is unclear. To investigate whether arboviruses encounter bottlenecks during dissemination in the vertebrate host, we infected immunocompetent mice and immune-deficient mice lacking alpha/beta interferon (IFN-α/β) receptors (IFNAR−/−mice) with a pool of genetically marked viruses to evaluate dissemination and host barriers. We used the live attenuated vaccine strain YFV-17D, which contains many mutations compared with virulent YFV. We found that intramuscularly injected immunocompetent mice did not develop disease and that viral dissemination was restricted. Conversely, 32% of intramuscularly injected IFNAR−/−mice developed disease. By following the genetically marked viruses over time, we found broad dissemination in IFNAR−/−mice followed by clearance. The patterns of viral dissemination were similar in mice that developed disease and mice that did not develop disease. Unlike our previous results with poliovirus, these results suggest that YFV-17D encounters no major barriers during dissemination within a vertebrate host in the absence of the type I IFN response.
Evaluation of Novel Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonates against Human and Animal Gammaherpesviruses Revealed an Altered Metabolism of Cyclic Prodrugs upon Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation in P3HR-1 Cells
Authors: Coen Natacha , Duraffour Sophie , Naesens Lieve , Krečmerová Marcela , Van den Oord Joost , Snoeck Robert , Andrei Graciela
Published: September 2013

Acyclic nucleoside phosphonates (ANPs), such as (S)-1-[(3-hydroxy-2-phosphonomethoxy)propyl)]cytosine (HPMPC), are an important group of broad-spectrum antiviral agents with activity against DNA viruses. In this report, we present thein vitropotencies of novel ANPs against gammaherpesviruses, including Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and three animal gammaherpesviruses. 1-(S)-[3-hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]-5-azacytosine (HPMP-5-azaC), (S)-9-[3-hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]-3-deazaadenine (3-deaza-HPMPA), and their cyclic derivatives have emerged as highly potent antigammaherpesvirus agents. Interestingly, cyclic prodrugs of ANPs exhibited reduced activities against EBV strain P3HR-1, but not against EBV strain Akata. Cell culture metabolism studies with HPMPC and cyclic HPMPC revealed that these differences were attributable to an altered drug metabolism in P3HR-1 cells after EBV reactivation and, more specifically, to a reduced hydrolysis of cyclic HPMPC by cyclic CMP phosphodiesterase. We did not correlate this effect with phosphodiesterase downregulation, or to functional mutations. Instead, altered cyclic AMP levels in P3HR-1 cells indicated a competitive inhibition of the phosphodiesterase by this cyclic nucleotide. Finally, both HPMPC and HPMP-5-azaC emerged as highly effective inhibitorsin vivothrough significant inhibition of murine gammaherpesvirus replication and dissemination. With the current need for potent antigammaherpesvirus agents, our findings underline the requirement of appropriate surrogate viruses for antiviral susceptibility testing and highlight HPMP-5-azaC as a promising compound for future clinical development.
Non-syndromic hereditary gingival fibromatosis
Authors: Mohan Ravi Prakash Sasankoti , Verma Sankalp , Agarwal Neha , Singh Udita
Published: September 2013

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis is a rare condition characterised by severe gingival hyperplasia that can occur as an isolated disease or as part of a syndrome or chromosomal abnormality. In severe cases, the gingival enlargement may cover the crowns of teeth and cause severe aesthetic, emotional and functional impairment. This case report gives an overview of gingival fibromatosis in a 22-year-old male patient who presented with generalised gingival enlargement.
A new syndrome: right-sided arcus aorta syndrome
Authors: Ozkaya Sevket , Dirican Adem , Tuna Tibel , Ece Ferah
Published: September 2013

Right-sided arcus aorta (RSAA) is a rare congenital anomaly that may cause chronic cough and dyspnoea. We aimed to define RSAA as a new syndrome characterised by RSAA, dyspnoea and cough during exercise. RSAA syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis of asthma.
Primary penile melanoma with an incidental renal oncocytoma
Authors: McLoughlin Louise Catherine , Davis Niall F , Cham Adrian , Mohan Ponnusamy
Published: September 2013

A 57-year-old man presented with a pigmented lesion on the ventral aspect of his glans penis. A punch biopsy showed features consistent with malignant melanoma. Preoperative staging was initiated with CT of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis. A mass in the lower pole of the left kidney was found and given the presence of a primary melanoma, was highly suspicious for a metastatic deposit or a primary renal cell carcinoma. A biopsy of this mass failed to give a definitive diagnosis. The patient proceeded to have a partial penectomy and a left radical nephrectomy. The penile lesion was a 2.5 mm malignant melanoma with nodular and superficial spreading components. The renal mass turned out to be a benign oncocytoma. The final clinical stage of the penile melanoma was pT3a N0 M0. The patient received adjuvant interferon therapy. He is well and free of disease recurrence at 1-year postsurgery.
Profound jaundice in a patient with acute hepatitis C
Authors: Lohia Prateek , Jinjuvadia Raxitkumar , May Elizabeth
Published: September 2013

A 52-year-old African-American woman with overall good health and medical history of asthma and depression presented with right lower quadrant abdominal pain, vomiting and icterus for 3 weeks. Her physical examination was remarkable for only sclera icterus and mild tenderness on palpation in the right lower quadrant. Investigations revealed marked hyperbilirubinemia and transaminitis, with other serological and radiological studies unremarkable and a hepatitis A, B and C panel negative 3 weeks before presentation. Repeat hepatitis panel showing hepatitis C antibody positive with viral load 20 739 524 IU/mL. Liver biopsy supported the diagnosis of acute hepatitis C infection.
Heading in football, long-term cognitive decline and dementia: evidence from screening retired professional footballers
Authors: Vann Jones Simon Andrew , Breakey Richard William , Evans Philip John
Published: September 2013

Background

Heading impairs cognition in the short and medium-terms; however, little is known about the long-term consequences. This study aimed to investigate the hypothesis that chronic low-level head trauma is associated with persistent cognitive decline.

Methods

All members of Former Player Associations (FPAs) from four professional football clubs in the UK were contacted to participate in the study. Participants were required to complete a self-assessed test of cognition, the Test Your Memory questionnaire. Further information was collected from respondents in order to analyse the potential effect of a number of variables on cognition.

Results

10 of 92 respondents (10.87%) screened positive for possible mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. There was no association between low-risk and high-risk playing positions (HR = 0.40, p = 0.456) or length of playing career (HR = 1.051 95% CI 0.879 to 1.257, p = 0.586) and a positive screening result. Age was a risk factor (HR = 1.137 per additional year, 95% CI 1.030 to 1.255, p < 0.05), although this was not significantly different from the population prevalence across age groups.

Conclusions

These results suggest that once a player ends their playing career, their risk of harm falls in line with the population, suggesting either that changes are reversible or that heading may not be as harmful as commonly thought. Future longitudinal studies of large numbers of professional football players are needed to support the findings from this study.
Balloon augmented Onyx embolization utilizing a dual lumen balloon catheter: utility in the treatment of a variety of head and neck lesions
Authors: Spiotta Alejandro M , Miranpuri Amrendra S , Vargas Jan , Magarick Jordan , Turner Raymond D , Turk Aquilla S , Chaudry M Imran
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Endovascular embolization for tumors and vascular malformations has emerged as an important preoperative adjunct prior to resection. We describe the advantages of utilizing a recently released dual lumen balloon catheter for ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, also known as Onyx (ev3, Irvine, California, USA), embolization for a variety of head and neck pathologies.

Methods

A retrospective review of all cases utilizing the Scepter C balloon catheter (MicroVention Inc, Tustin, California, USA) for use in balloon augmented embolization was performed over a 4 month period from October 2012 to February 2013 at the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA. Charts and angiographic images were reviewed. Representative cases involving diverse pathologies are summarized and illustrate the observed advantages of balloon augmented Onyx embolization with a dual lumen balloon catheter.

Case illustrations

Balloon augmented Onyx embolization utilizing a novel dual lumen balloon catheter was employed to treat both ruptured and unruptured arteriovenous malformations, intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulae, intracranial neoplasms, carotid body tumors, a thyroid mass, and an extracranial arteriovenous fistula.

Conclusions

The dual lumen balloon catheter has several advantages for use with Onyx embolization over older devices, including more efficient proximal plug formation and enhanced navigability for placement deep within the pedicles. The balloon augmented Onyx embolization technique represents a valuable tool to add to the armamentarium of the neurointerventionalist to address a variety of head and neck lesions.
Early results of the Axium MicroFX for Endovascular Repair of IntraCranial Aneurysm (AMERICA) study: a multicenter prospective observational registry
Authors: Fargen Kyle M , Blackburn Spiros , Carpenter Jeffrey S , Jabbour Pascal , Mack William J , Rai Ansaar T , Siddiqui Adnan H , Turner Raymond D , Mocco J
Published: September 2013

Background

Axium MicroFX coils contain polymer (polyglycolic/polylactic acid, PGLA) microfilaments designed to significantly impact intra-aneurysmal flow and to encourage aneurysm thrombosis. To provide preliminary evaluation of the safety and suggested efficacy of the MicroFX design, we performed a multicenter prospective single-arm trial, AxiumMicroFX forEndovascularRepair ofIntraCranial Aneurysm study (AMERICA).

Methods

AMERICA is a prospective multicenter 100 aneurysm observational study evaluating the safety and efficacy of Axium MicroFX PGLA coils. Enrollment was started in April 2010 and completed in October 2012.

Results

99 patients underwent treatment for 100 aneurysms at 13 centers. Mean age was 60.2 years, most were women (72%) and 18% of patients had previously undergone treatment for a separate aneurysm. 22% of patients underwent treatment after acute aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Of these patients, all were Hunt and Hess grade 1–3. Pre-procedure modified Rankin score (mRS) was 0–2 in 92% of patients. The majority of aneurysms were anterior circulation (86%), with the most common aneurysm locations being the anterior communicating artery (23%) followed by the supraclinoid internal carotid artery and posterior communicating artery (18% each). The mean maximum diameter was 6.5 mm. Axium MicroFX coils could be placed in all but one treatment (99%). Raymond grade at conclusion of coiling was I (complete) in 52%, II (dog ear or residual neck) in 33% and III (residual aneurysm) in 15%. Discharge mRS was significantly worse in patients with SAH (62% mRS 0–2) compared with electively treated aneurysms (mRS 0–2 in 94%, p<001). Major events were uncommon (6% thromboembolic events, 3% intraoperative vessel or aneurysm rupture) and device-related adverse events (AE) were rare (2% of cases).

Conclusions

This prospective study of Axium MicroFX coils demonstrates excellent aneurysm occlusion rates. 52% of aneurysms were completely occluded post-procedure. Within the ruptured aneurysm group, post-procedure occlusion rates were 63.6%. Major AE rates were consistent with historical data.
Analysis of ground penetrating radar data using hierarchical Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Mills Leslie Odartey , Attoh-Okine Nii
Published: September 2013

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is a geophysical method used in highway maintenance to determine subsurface conditions within the right-of-way. GPR operates by using short-pulse radiation of radio-frequency electromagnetic energy to record dissimilarities in electrical properties of subsurface materials. As such, GPR results are susceptible to the transmission frequency used and the inherent properties of different subsurface materials. Uncertainty due to these susceptibilities can lead to ambiguity in the interpretation of GPR data. To distinguish heterogeneity from uncertainty, this paper modeled GPR data on pavement layer thickness using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation. MCMC is able to model heterogeneity within a given dataset and was employed to estimate and predict layer thicknesses obtained from GPR data. Simulated results were consistent with field data and provided statistical estimates of missing values in the original dataset. This analysis will aid relevant stakeholders to verify and determine consistency in field GPR data.
ABSTRACT ALGEBRAIC INTEGRALS AND FROBENIUS CATEGORIES
Authors: IOVANOV MIODRAG CRISTIAN
Published: September 2013

We generalize results on the connection between existence and uniqueness of integrals and representation theoretic properties for Hopf algebras and compact groups. For this, given a coalgebra C, we study analogues of the existence and uniqueness properties for the integral functor Hom C(C, -), which generalizes the notion of integral in a Hopf algebra. We show that the coalgebra C is co-Frobenius if and only if dim ( Hom C(C, M)) = dim (M) for all finite dimensional right (left) comodules M. As applications, we give a few new categorical characterizations of co-Frobenius, quasi-co-Frobenius (QcF) coalgebras and semiperfect coalgebras, and re-derive classical results of Lin, Larson, Sweedler and Sullivan on Hopf algebras. We show that a coalgebra is QcF if and only if the category of left (right) comodules is Frobenius, generalizing results from finite dimensional algebras, and we show that a one-sided QcF coalgebra is two-sided semiperfect. We also construct a class of examples derived from quiver coalgebras to show that the results of the paper are the best possible. Finally, we examine the case of compact groups, and note that algebraic integrals can be interpreted as certain skew-invariant measure theoretic integrals on the group.
(m, n)-TYPE HOLOGRAPHIC DARK ENERGY MODELS
Authors: LING YI , PAN WEN-JIAN
Published: September 2013

We construct (m, n)-type holographic dark energy models at a phenomenological level, which can be viewed as a generalization of agegraphic models with the conformal-like age as the holographic characteristic size. For some values of (m, n) the holographic dark energy can automatically evolve across ω = -1 into a phantom phase even without introducing an interaction between the dark energy and background matter. Our construction is also applicable to the holographic dark energy with generalized future event horizon as the characteristic size. Finally, we address the issue on the stability of our model and show that they are generally stable under the scalar perturbation.
HIERARCHICAL MASSES AND UNIVERSAL MIXING IN QUARK–LEPTON MASS MATRICES
Authors: FUKUYAMA TAKESHI , NISHIURA HIROYUKI
Published: September 2013

The universality hypothesis for quark and lepton mixing matrices (CKM and MNS) is further developed. This hypothesis explains why the CKM is almost diagonal whereas the MNS is almost maximally mixed. If this hypothesis is true, the Dirac CP violating phase of the MNS mixing matrix is bounded around π or 0. Quark–lepton mass matrices which realize this hypothesis are constructed, showing simple power law relations among mass matrices for up-type, down-type quarks and neutrinos.
PHENOMENOLOGICAL MODELS OF GLUON PLASMA IN THE LARGE TEMPERATURE RANGE
Authors: SIMJI P. , BANNUR VISHNU M.
Published: September 2013

Quasiparticle quark–gluon plasma (qQGP) model and strongly coupled quark–gluon plasma (SCQGP) are two different phenomenological models of quark–gluon plasma (QGP) that try to explain the nonideal behavior seen in lattice simulation of QCD and in relativistic heavy ion collisions. These models almost successfully explain the existing lattice data up to 5Tc. Here, we investigate how better these models fit the recent lattice data results of precision SU(3) thermodynamics for a large temperature range (up to 1000Tc) by studying the statistical mechanics and thermodynamics of gluon plasma and hence we have a complete phenomenological description of the equation of state of QGP from the phase transition through the perturbative region up to Stefan–Boltzmann limit. We also study the effect of orders of running coupling constants on the models and used the equation of state obtained using these models in predicting behavior of quantity like velocity of sound in high temperature, which has no lattice QCD results for such high temperatures.
PLANAR SHAPE MANIPULATION USING APPROXIMATE GEOMETRIC PRIMITIVES
Authors: MILENKOVIC VICTOR , SACKS ELISHA , TRAC STEVEN
Published: September 2013

We present robust algorithms for set operations and affine transformations on curved shapes in the plane using approximate geometric primitives. We use a refinement algorithm to ensure consistency. Its computational complexity is O (n log n + k) for an input of size n with k = O (n2) consistency violations. The output is as accurate as the geometric primitives. We validate our algorithms using sequences of six set operations and affine transforms on shapes bounded by algebraic curve segments of degree 1 to 6. We test generic and degenerate inputs.
CONSTRUCTING POINTS THROUGH FOLDING AND INTERSECTION
Authors: BUTLER STEVE , DEMAINE ERIK , GRAHAM RON , TACHI TOMOHIRO
Published: September 2013

Fix an n ≥ 3. Consider the following two operations: given a line with a specified point on the line we can construct a new line through the point which forms an angle with the new line which is a multiple of π/n (folding); and given two lines we can construct the point where they cross (intersection). Starting with the line y = 0 and the points (0,0) and (1,0) we determine which points in the plane can be constructed using only these two operations for n = 3,4,5,6,8,10,12,24 and also consider the problem of the minimum number of steps it takes to construct such a point.
COMMON DEVELOPMENTS OF THREE INCONGRUENT ORTHOGONAL BOXES
Authors: SHIRAKAWA TOSHIHIRO , UEHARA RYUHEI
Published: September 2013

We investigate common developments that can fold into several incongruent orthogonal boxes. It was shown that there are infinitely many orthogonal polygons that fold into two incongruent orthogonal boxes in 2008. In 2011, it was shown that there exists an orthogonal polygon that folds into three boxes of size 1 × 1 × 5, 1 × 2 × 3, and 0 × 1 × 11. However it remained open whether there exists an orthogonal polygon that folds into three boxes of positive volume. We give an affirmative answer to this open problem. We show how to construct an infinite number of orthogonal polygons that fold into three incongruent orthogonal boxes.
Modified Suliciu relaxation system and exact resolution of isolated shock waves
Authors: Chalons Christophe , Coquel Frederic
Published: September 2013

We present a new approximate Riemann solver (ARS) for the gas dynamics equations in Lagrangian coordinates and with general nonlinear pressure laws. The design of this new ARS relies on a generalized Suliciu pressure relaxation approach. It gives by construction the exact solutions for isolated entropic shocks and we prove that it is positive, Lipschitz-continuous and satisfies an entropy inequality. Finally, the ARS is used to develop either a classical entropy conservative Godunov-type method, or a Glimm-type (random sampling-based Godunov-type) method able to generate infinitely sharp discrete shock profiles. Numerical experiments are proposed to prove the validity of these approaches.
INSTANTANEOUS DARK STATE AND TRAJECTORY TRACKING
Authors: ZHANG X. Y. , FAROOQ K. , YI X. X.
Published: September 2013

State steering and tracking have attracted a lot of interests due to their wide applications. In this paper, we present two concrete examples of trajectory tracking of an open quantum system with time-dependent Lindblad operator which has an eigenstate |ψs(t)〉 with eigenvalue 0. We work out the first case analytically while numerically the second case. From both the cases, we find that, if changing the Lindblad operator is sufficiently slow, then the system can follow the trajectory of |ψs(t)〉 very well.
AGENT-BASED SIMULATION OF CONSUMER DEMAND FOR SMART METERING TARIFFS
Authors: RIXEN MARTIN , WEIGAND JÜRGEN
Published: September 2013

An agent-based model simulates consumer demand for smart metering tariffs. It utilizes the Bass Diffusion Model and Rogers's adopter categories to locate demand-side barriers and drivers. Integration of empirical census microdata enables a validated socio-economic background for each consumer. The key performance indicators diffusion-speed and diffusion-level measure the effectiveness of regulatory interventions to induce diffusion. Pricing, promotion and quantity-regulation policies are tested. Scenario results emphasize the impact of both epidemic and probit effects. Speed of adoption is mainly triggered via interactions and consumer awareness. Level of diffusion primarily depends on pricing, willingness-to-pay and cost-benefit-thresholds. Data mining on agent's attributes highlight weaknesses in current regulatory requirements due to disadvantages in consumer acceptance and policy effectiveness. A "cash-for-clunkers" program could tackle major barriers for adoption and boost diffusion through synergies of pricing and promotion interventions.
THE APPLICATION OF NANOMATERIALS IN DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT FOR MALIGNANT PRIMARY BRAIN TUMORS
Authors: LIANG RUICHAO , FANG FANG
Published: September 2013

Malignant primary brain tumors have a very high morbidity and mortality. Even though enormous advances have been made in primary brain tumor management, in the case of malignant primary brain tumors, current diagnostic strategies cannot identify exact infiltrating margins, surgery alone cannot achieve total mass resection, and adjuvant therapies cannot improve survivals. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore novel strategies to diagnose and treat such infiltrating brain tumors. Nanomaterials, particularly zero-dimensional and one-dimensional platforms, can carry various compounds such as contrast agents, anticancer drugs and genes into brain tumor cells specifically. Thus, contrast agent-based nanomaterials can selectively present infiltrating tumor outlines, while anticancer agent-based nanomaterials can specifically kill malignant tumor cells. In addition, dual-targeting nanomaterials, multifunctional nanocarriers, theranostic nanovehicles as well as convection-enhanced delivery technology hold promise to increase drug accumulation in tumor tissues, which could largely improve anticancer efficacy. In this review, we will mainly focus on the application of nanomaterials in preoperative diagnosis, intraoperative diagnosis and adjuvant treatment for malignant primary brain tumors.
Intracellular oxygen: Similar results from two methods of measurement using phosphorescent nanoparticles
Authors: Lloyd David , Williams Catrin F. , Vijayalakshmi K. , Kombrabail M. , White Nick , Hayes Anthony J. , Aon Miguel A. , Krishnamoorthy G.
Published: September 2013

The ability to resolve the spatio-temporal complexity of intracellular O2distribution is the "Holy Grail" of cellular physiology. In an effort to obtain a minimally invasive approach to the mapping of intracellular O2tensions, two methods of phosphorescent lifetime imaging microscopy were compared in the current study and gave similar results. These were two-photon confocal laser scanning microscopy with pinhole shifting, and picosecond time-resolved epi-phosphorescence microscopy using a single 0.5 μm focused spot. Both methods utilized Ru coordination complex embedded nanoparticles (45 nm diameter) as the phosphorescent probe, excited using pulsed outputs of a titanium–sapphire Tsunami lasers (710–1050 nm).
IMPACT OF DYNAMICAL HYDRATION SHELL AROUND HA PROTEIN ON NONLINEAR CONCENTRATION DEPENDENT T-RAYS ABSORPTION
Authors: SUN YIWEN , WANG TIANFU , CHEN SIPING , ZUO JIAN , ZHANG ZHENWEI , ZHANG CUNLIN
Published: September 2013

T-rays is sensitive to covalently cross-linked proteins and can be used to probe unique dynamic properties of water surrounding a protein. In this paper, we demonstrate the unique absorption properties of the dynamic hydration shells determined by hemagglutinin (HA) protein in terahertz frequency. We study the changes arising from different concentrations in detail and show that nonlinear absorption coefficient is induced by the dynamic hydration water. The binary and ternary component model were used to interpret the nonlinearity absorption behaviors and predict the thickness of the hydration shells around the HA protein in aqueous phase.
A new modified group explicit iterative method for the numerical solution of time dependent viscous Burgers' equation
Authors: Talwar Jyoti , Mohanty R. K.
Published: September 2013

In this article, we discuss a new smart alternating group explicit method based on off-step discretization for the solution of time dependent viscous Burgers' equation in rectangular coordinates. The convergence analysis for the new iteration method is discussed in details. We compared the results of Burgers' equation obtained by using the proposed iterative method with the results obtained by other iterative methods to demonstrate computationally the efficiency of the proposed method.
Development of an Unmanned Coaxial Rotorcraft for the DARPA UAVForge Challenge
Authors: Lin Feng , Ang Kevin Z. Y. , Wang Fei , Chen Ben M. , Lee Tong H. , Yang Beiqing , Dong Miaobo , Dong Xiangxu , Cui Jinqiang , Phang Swee King , Wang Biao , Luo Delin , Peng Kemao , Cai Guowei , Zhao Shiyu , Yin Mingfeng , Li Kun
Published: September 2013

In this paper, we present a comprehensive design for a fully functional unmanned rotorcraft system: GremLion. GremLion is a new small-scale unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) concept using two contra-rotating rotors and one cyclic swash-plate. It can fit within a rucksack and be easily carried by a single person. GremLion is developed with all necessary avionics and a ground control station. It has been employed to participate in the 2012 UAVForge competition. The proposed design of GremLion consists of hardware construction, software development, dynamics modeling and flight control design, as well as mission algorithm investigation. A novel computer-aided technique is presented to optimize the hardware construction of GremLion to realize robust and efficient flight behavior. Based on the above hardware platform, a real-time flight control software and a ground control station (GCS) software have been developed to achieve the onboard processing capability and the ground monitoring capability respectively. A GremLion mathematical model has been derived for hover and near hover flight conditions and identified from experimental data collected in flight tests. We have combined H∞ technique, a robust and perfect tracking (RPT) approach, and custom-defined flight scheduling to design a comprehensive nonlinear flight control law for GremLion and successfully realized the automatic control which includes take-off, hovering, and a variety of essential flight motions. In addition, advanced mission algorithms have been presented in the paper, including obstacle detection and avoidance, as well as target following. Both ground and flight experiments of the complete system have been conducted including autonomous hovering, waypoint flight, etc. The test results have been presented in this paper to verify the proposed design methodology.
Electrophysiology of Bacteria
Authors: Delcour Anne H.
Published: September 2013

Bacteria secrete and harbor in their membranes a number of pore-forming proteins. Some of these are bona fide ion channels that may respond to changes in membrane tension, voltage, or pH. Others may be large translocons used for the secretion of folded or unfolded polypeptide substrates. Additionally, many secreted toxins insert into target cell membranes and form pores that either collapse membrane electrochemical gradients or provide conduits for the delivery of virulence factors. In all cases, electrophysiological approaches have yielded much progress in past decades in understanding the functional mechanisms of these pores. By monitoring the changes in current due to ion flow through the pores, these techniques are used as high-resolution tools to gather detailed information on the kinetic and permeation properties of these proteins, including those whose physiological role is not ion flux. This review highlights some of the electrophysiological studies that have advanced the field of transport by pore-forming proteins of bacterial origin.
An Inquiry into the Molecular Basis of HSV Latency and Reactivation
Authors: Roizman Bernard , Whitley Richard J.
Published: September 2013

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) evolved an elegant strategy that enables the virus to impact a large fraction of the human population. The virus replicates at the portal of entry (mouth, genitals) and concurrently it is transported retrograde to sensory neurons. In sensory neurons it establishes a silent (latent) infection. A variety of stimuli can reactivate the virus. The reactivated virus is transmitted anterograde to a site at the portal of entry for transmission by physical contact between infected and uninfected tissues to other individuals. The central issue is how a virus that vigorously replicates and successfully blocks the innate immune defenses of the host at the portal of entry into the body remains silent in sensory neurons. The presentation focuses on three key issues: (a) current assessment of the impact of HSV on human health, (b) the mechanisms by which the virus overcomes a key host defense mechanism at the portal of entry into the body and yet is silenced in latently infected neurons, and (c) the mechanisms by which the virus reactivates.
Fifty Years Fused to Lac
Authors: Beckwith Jonathan
Published: September 2013

I recount the history of how I became interested in the use of gene fusions for studying biological problems. Initially, selections for mutations that would restore function to an inactivated lac operon unexpectedly yielded fusions in which lac was expressed from the controlling elements of upstream genes. Subsequently, by chance, I generated strains in which the lac operon was transposed from its normal position on the chromosome to a position close to the trp operon, thus facilitating sets of useful fusions of the two operons. The development of a more generalized technique for obtaining fusions by my student Malcolm Casadaban opened up a much broader set of biological problems that could be approached with fusions. Work on these problems included the study of protein translocation across membranes, the analysis of membrane protein topology, and the discovery of the pathway of electron transfer that leads to disulfide bond formation in proteins.
Role of NADPH oxidase NOX5-S, NF-κB, and DNMT1 in acid-induced p16 hypermethylation in Barrett's cells
Authors: Hong Jie , Li Dan , Wands Jack , Souza Rhonda , Cao Weibiao
Published: September 2013

Inactivation of tumor suppressor genes via promoter hypermethylation may play an important role in the progression from Barrett's esophagus (BE) to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA). We have previously shown that acid-induced p16 gene promoter hypermethylation may depend on activation of NADPH oxidase NOX5-S in BAR-T cells and OE33 EA cells. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) is known to participate in maintaining established patterns of DNA methylation in dividing cells and may play an important role in the development of cancer. Therefore, we examined whether DNMT1 is involved in acid-induced p16 gene promoter hypermethylation in BAR-T cells. We found that the acid significantly increased p16 gene promoter methylation, decreased p16 mRNA, and increased cell proliferation, effects that may depend on activation of DNMT1 in BAR-T cells. DNMT1 is overexpressed in EA cells FLO and OE33 and EA tissues. Acid treatment upregulated DNMT1 mRNA expression and increased DNMT1 promoter activity. Acid-induced increases in DNMT1 mRNA expression and promoter activity were significantly decreased by knockdown of NOX5-S and NF-κB1 p50. Conversely, overexpression of NOX5-S, p50, or p65 significantly increased DNMT1 promoter activity. Knockdown of NOX5-S significantly decreased the acid-induced increase in luciferase activity in cells transfected with pNFκB-Luc. An NF-κB binding element GGGGTATCCC was identified in the DNMT1 gene promoter. We conclude that the acid-induced increase in p16 gene promoter methylation, downregulation of p16 mRNA, and increase in cell proliferation may depend on activation of DNMT1 in BAR-T cells. Acid-induced DNMT1 expression may depend on sequential activation of NOX5-S and NF-κB1 p50.
Pronounced in vivo hemoglobin polymerization in red blood cells of Gulf toadfish: a general role for hemoglobin aggregation in vertebrate hemoparasite defense?
Authors: Koldkjær Pia , McDonald M. Danielle , Prior Ian , Berenbrink Michael
Published: September 2013

Two human hemoglobin (Hb) variants, Hb C and Hb S, are known to protect against Plasmodium falciparum malaria and have evolved repeatedly in malaria endemic areas. Both aggregate to insoluble crystals (Hb C) or polymers (Hb S) under certain physiological conditions, impair parasite growth, and may facilitate retention of infected red blood cells (RBCs) in the spleen. Given the profound effects of parasites on host evolution in general, and that RBC Hb concentration is often close to its solubility limit throughout vertebrates, similar mechanisms may operate in nonhuman vertebrates. Here we show exercise-induced, profound in vivo Hb polymerization in RBCs of the Gulf toadfish. Hb aggregation was closely associated with the extent of plasma acidosis, fully reversible, and without any signs of hemolysis or anemia. Our literature analysis suggests that aggregation prone Hbs may be relatively old, evolved multiple times in nonhuman vertebrates, show enhanced aggregation during hemoparasite infections, and can be uncovered in vivo by splenectomy. We discuss the working hypothesis that widespread Hb aggregation within several vertebrate groups may be the result of ongoing or past selection pressure against RBC parasites. Further comparative studies of these evolutionary old systems may provide valuable insights into hemoparasite susceptibility and reservoir potential of livestock and companion animals but also into human malaria and sickle cell disease.
Human cortical and behavioral sensitivity to patterns of complex motion at eccentricity
Authors: Maloney Ryan T. , Watson Tamara L. , Clifford Colin W. G.
Published: September 2013

Complex patterns of image motion (contracting, expanding, rotating, and spiraling fields) are important in the coordination of visually guided behaviors. Whereas specialized detectors in monkey visual cortex show selectivity for particular patterns of complex motion, their representation in human visual cortex remains unclear. In the present study, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to investigate the sensitivity of functionally defined regions of human visual cortex to parametrically modulated complex motion trajectories, coupled with complementary psychophysical testing. A unique stimulus design made it possible to disambiguate the neural responses and psychophysical sensitivity to complex motions per se from the distribution of local motions relative to the fovea, which are known to enhance cortical activity when presented radial to fixation. This involved presenting several small, separate motion fields in the periphery in a manner that distinguished them from global optic flow patterns. The patterns were morphed through complex motion space in a systematic time-locked fashion when presented in the scanner. Anisotropies were observed in the fMRI signal, marked by an enhanced response to expanding vs. contracting fields, even in early visual cortex. Anisotropies in the psychophysical sensitivity measures followed a similar pattern that was correlated with activity in areas hV4, V5/MT, and MST. This represents the first systematic examination of complex motion perception at both a behavioral and neural level in human observers. The characteristic processing anisotropy revealed in both data sets can inform models of complex motion processing, particularly with respect to computations performed in early visual cortex.
Bioaccumulation Experiments in Mussels Contaminated with the Food-Borne PathogenArcobacter butzleri: Preliminary Data for Risk Assessment
Authors: Ottaviani Donatella , Chierichetti Serena , Rocchegiani Elena , Bartolini Chiara , Masini Laura , Santarelli Sabrina , Leoni Francesca
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate, at a laboratory scale, the ability of this microorganism to grow in seawater and bioaccumulate in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) maintained in constantly aerated tanks, containing twenty litres of artificial seawater. Three concentrations ofA. butzleriLMG10828Twere tested (about5×106 CFU/mL,5×104 CFU/mL, and5×102 CFU/mL). Following contamination, enumeration ofA. butzleriwas performed from water and mussels each day, for up to 96 h. Three contamination experiments with artificial seawater in absence of mussels were also performed in the same manner. In the experiments with mussels,A. butzlerideclined in water of approximately 1 log every 24 h from the contamination. In artificial seawater without mussels the concentration ofA. butzleriremained on the same logarithmic level in the first 48 h and then decreased of about 1 log every 24 hours. In mussels, the concentration was approximately 2 log lower than the exposition level after 24 h from the contamination, and then it decreased exponentially of 1 log every 24 h. Our findings suggest that in the experimental conditions testedA. butzleriis neither able to effectively grow in seawater nor bioaccumulate in mussels, at least in the free and cultivable form.
Uterine Fibroids: Pathogenesis and Interactions with Endometrium and Endomyometrial Junction
Authors: Ciavattini Andrea , Di Giuseppe Jacopo , Stortoni Piergiorgio , Montik Nina , Giannubilo Stefano R. , Litta Pietro , Islam Md. Soriful , Tranquilli Andrea L. , Reis Fernando M. , Ciarmela Pasquapina
Published: September 2013

Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids or myomas) are benign tumors of uterus and clinically apparent in a large part of reproductive aged women. Clinically, they present with a variety of symptoms: excessive menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhoea and intermenstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms such as a sensation of bloatedness, increased urinary frequency, and bowel disturbance. In addition, they may compromise reproductive functions, possibly contributing to subfertility, early pregnancy loss, and later pregnancy complications. Despite the prevalence of this condition, myoma research is underfunded compared to other nonmalignant diseases. To date, several pathogenetic factors such as genetics, microRNA, steroids, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix components have been implicated in the development and growth of leiomyoma. This paper summarizes the available literature regarding the ultimate relative knowledge on pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and their interactions with endometrium and subendometrial myometrium.
Genetic Confirmation of the Role of Sulfopyruvate Decarboxylase in Coenzyme M Biosynthesis inMethanococcus maripaludis
Authors: Sarmiento Felipe , Ellison Courtney K. , Whitman William B.
Published: September 2013

Coenzyme M is an essential coenzyme for methanogenesis. The proposed biosynthetic pathway consists of five steps, of which the fourth step is catalyzed by sulfopyruvate decarboxylase (ComDE). Disruption of the genecomEby transposon mutagenesis resulted in a partial coenzyme M auxotroph, which grew poorly in the absence of coenzyme M and retained less than 3% of the wild type level of coenzyme M biosynthesis. Upon coenzyme M addition, normal growth of the mutant was restored. Moreover, complementation of the mutation with the wild typecomEgene intransrestored full growth in the absence of coenzyme M. These results confirm that ComE plays an important role in coenzyme M biosynthesis. The inability to yield a complete CoM auxotroph suggests that either the transposon insertion failed to completely inactivate the gene orM. maripaludispossesses a promiscuous activity that partially complemented the mutation.
Recurrence of a t(8;21)-Positive Acute Myeloid Leukemia in the Form of a Granulocytic Sarcoma Involving Cranial Bones: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
Authors: Di Veroli Ambra , Micarelli Alessandro , Cefalo Mariagiovanna , Ceresoli Eleonora , Nasso Daniela , Cicconi Laura , Mauramati Simone , Ottaviani Fabrizio , Venditti Adriano , Amadori Sergio
Published: September 2013

Granulocytic sarcoma (GS) is a rare extramedullary solid tumor defined as an accumulation of myeloblasts or immature myeloid cells. It can cooccur with or precede the acute myeloid leukemia (AML) as well as following treated AML. The incidence of GS in AML patients is 3–8% but it significantly rises in M2 FAB subtype AML. This variety of AML harbors t(8;21) in up to 20–25% of cases (especially in children and black ones of African origin) and, at a molecular level, it is characterized by the generation of a fusion gene known as RUNX1-RUNX1T1. Approximately 10% of M2 AML patients will develop GS, as a consequence, the t(8;21) and the relative transcript represent the most common cytogenetic and molecular abnormalities in GS. FLT3-ITD mutation was rarely described in AML patients presenting with GS. FLT3 ITD is generally strongly associated with poor prognosis in AML, and is rarely reported in patients with t(8;21). GS presentation is extremely variable depending on organs involved; in general, cranial bones and sinus are very rarely affected sites. We report a rare case of GS occurring as a recurrence of a previously treated t(8;21), FLT3-ITD positive AML, involving mastoid bones and paravertebral tissues.
Different Levels in Orexin Concentrations and Risk Factors Associated with Higher Orexin Levels: Comparison between Detoxified Opiate and Methamphetamine Addicts in 5 Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Lian Zhi , Yan Shiyan , Bao Yanping , Liu Zhimin
Published: September 2013

This study sought to explore the degree of orexin levels in Chinese opiate and methamphetamine addicts and the differences between them. The cross-sectional study was conducted among detoxified drug addicts from Mandatory Detoxification Center (MDC) in five Chinese cities. Orexin levels were assayed with radioimmunoassay (RIA). Mann-WhitneyUtest and Kruskal-Wallis test were used to detect differences across groups, and logistic regression was used to explore the association between orexin levels and characteristics of demographic and drug abuse. Between November 2009 and January 2011, 285 opiates addicts, 112 methamphetamine addicts, and 79 healthy controls were enrolled. At drug withdrawal period, both opiate and methamphetamine addicts had lower median orexin levels than controls, and median orexin levels in opiate addicts were higher than those in methamphetamine addicts (all aboveP<0.05). Adjusted odds of the above median concentration of orexin were higher for injection than “chasing the dragon” (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.2–7.9). No significant factors associated with orexin levels of methamphetamine addicts were found. Development of intervention method on orexin system by different administration routes especially for injected opiate addicts at detoxification phase may be significant and was welcome.
Delirium in Australian Hospitals: A Prospective Study
Authors: Travers C. , Byrne G. J. , Pachana N. A. , Klein K. , Gray L.
Published: September 2013

Objectives. Australian data regarding delirium in older hospitalized patients are limited. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence of delirium among older patients admitted to Australian hospitals and assess associated outcomes.Method. A prospective observational study (n=493) of patients aged ≥70 years admitted to four Australian hospitals was undertaken. Trained research nurses completed comprehensive geriatric assessments using standardized instruments including the Confusion Assessment Method to assess for delirium. Nurses also visited the wards daily to assess for incident delirium and other adverse outcomes. Diagnoses of dementia and delirium were established through case reviews by independent physicians.Results. Overall, 9.7% of patients had delirium at admission and a further 7.6% developed delirium during the hospital stay. Dementia was the most important predictor of delirium at (OR=3.18, 95% CI: 1.65–6.14) and during the admission (OR=4.82; 95% CI: 2.19–10.62). Delirium at and during the admission predicted increased in-hospital mortality (OR=5.19, 95% CI: 1.27–21.24;OR=31.07, 95% CI: 9.30–103.78).Conclusion.These Australian data confirm that delirium is a common and serious condition among older hospital patients. Hospital clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for delirium in older patients.
Investigation of the Tail Dihedral Effects on the Aerodynamic Characteristics for the Low Speed Aircraft
Authors: Zhang G. Q. , Yu S. C. M. , Chien A. , Xu Y.
Published: September 2013

The aerodynamic characteristics for the vee-tail aircraft configuration have been investigated numerically at low Reynolds number (Re < 106). Three types of vee-tails have been adopted to be compared with the conventional tail type (with horizontal and vertical tails). The results show that the effect created by the vee-tail can greatly affect the aerodynamic characteristics of the whole aircraft. If the dihedral angle of the vee-tail is too large, it can directly affect the flight stability. The main reason for the longitudinal moment curve “moving up” at high dihedral angle can be attributed to the serious asymmetric downwash effect. Based on these, the force variation and the corresponding aerodynamic characteristics for three different sizes of aileron with different deflection angles have also been obtained computationally and analyzed in detail.