bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for ‘silicon’ within the cell walls of suspension‐cultured rice cells
Authors: He Congwu , Wang Lijun , Liu Jian , Liu Xin , Li Xiuli , Ma Jie , Lin Yongjun , Xu Fangsen
Published: July 2013

Despite the ubiquity and beneficial role of silicon (Si) in plant biology, structural and chemical mechanisms operating at the single‐cell level have not been extensively studied.

To obtain insights regarding the effect of Si on individual cells, we cultivated suspended rice (Oryza sativa) cells in the absence and presence of Si and analyzed single cells using a combination of physical techniques including atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Si is naturally present as a constituent of the cell walls, where it is firmly bound to the cell wall matrix rather than occurring within intra‐ or extracellular silica deposition, as determined by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). This species of Si, linked with the cell wall matrix, improves the structural stability of cell walls during their expansion and subsequent cell division. Maintaining cell shape is thereby enhanced, which may be crucial for the function and survival of cells.

This study provides further evidence that organosilicon is present in plant cell walls, which broadens our understanding of the chemical nature of ‘anomalous Si’ in plant biology.
The Melody® valve and Ensemble® delivery system for transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement
Authors: McElhinney Doff B. , Hennesen Jill T.
Published: July 2013

The Melody® transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) is a percutaneous valve system designed for the treatment of obstruction and/or regurgitation of prosthetic conduits placed between the right ventricle and pulmonary arteries in patients with congenital heart disease. In 2000, Melody TPV became the first transcatheter valve implanted in a human; in 2006 it became the first transcatheter valve commercially available anywhere in the world; and in 2010 it was launched as the first commercially available transcatheter valve in the United States. In this review, we present the clinical background against which the Melody valve was developed and implemented, introduce the rationale for and challenges of transcatheter valve technology for this population, outline the history and technical details of its development and use, and summarize currently available data concerning the performance of the device.
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on the viability of irradiated soft head and neck tissues in mice
Authors: Spiegelberg L , Braks JAM , Djasim UM , Farrell E , van der Wal KGH , Wolvius EB
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used clinically in irradiation‐induced injury to healthy tissues, but the effectiveness and working mechanism remain unclear. This study examined the effects of HBOT on irradiated salivary glands and tongue in a mouse model.

Materials and Methods

Mice were irradiated with a single dose (15 Gy) in the head and neck region and subjected to HBOT, either before or after irradiation. During the course of the treatments, salivary flow rates were measured and at different time points after radiation (2, 6, 10 and 24 weeks), salivary glands and tongue were harvested and (immuno) histochemically analysed.

Results

Proliferation and blood vessel density in salivary glands were enhanced by HBOT in the medium term (10 weeks after irradiation), while salivary flow rates were not influenced. In the long term, irradiation‐induced proliferation in the muscle tissue of the tongue was decreased by HBOT.

Conclusion

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) appears to stimulate regeneration or protection of salivary gland tissue following radiation therapy. Possible implications of the effect of HBOT on muscle tissue of the tongue for the prevention of dysphagia and trismus are discussed. This study provides insights on the cellular changes after HBOT and encourages further research on this topic to achieve a better implementation of the therapy in humans.
Spinal Opioid Bioavailability in Postoperative Pain
Authors: Bujedo Borja Mugabure
Published: July 2013

Opioids have been used for spinal analgesia for more than a century, and their injection epidurally and intrathecally has a key role in the control of postoperative pain. Since the discovery of the endogenous opioid system, 3 decades ago, their use has become more generalized in obstetric analgesia, the management of chronic pain, and acute postoperative pain. To use opioids effectively for this type of analgesia, it is important to understand the pharmacokinetics and clinical pharmacology of these drugs, specifically those that produce analgesia by an intrinsic spinal mechanism. Evidence from animal and human experiments indicates that hydrophilic opioids (such as hydromorphone and morphine) bind more strongly to specific receptors within the dorsal horn of the spinal cord than lipophilic opioids (such as alfentanil, fentanyl, and sufentanil). This can be understood by considering the spinal cord selectivity and bioavailability of these opioids. This difference is attributable to differences in the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the 2 groups. It is more difficult for lipophilic opioids to reach and remain at sufficiently high concentrations at the site of action due to their sequestration in epidural fat and rapid plasma clearance from both epidural and intrathecal spaces, resulting in analgesia with a limited spread and duration, as well as the appearance of early supraspinal side effects. In contrast, morphine has very different properties, including greater spinal bioavailability and therefore administered neuraxially, it is suitable choice for the treatment of acute postoperative pain. However, when using morphine, a greater incidence of adverse effects can be expected, and it requires careful patient selection.
Twenty‐Four‐Hour Hospitalization for Patients Initiating Systemic Propranolol Therapy for Infantile Hemangiomas—Is It Indicated?
Authors: Liu Lucinda S. , Sokoloff Daniel , Antaya Richard J.
Published: July 2013

In recent years, oral propranolol has risen from serendipitous discovery to first‐line, albeit off‐label, therapy for infantile hemangiomas (IHs). This retrospective study explored the utility of a 24‐hour hospitalization for the initiation of propranolol therapy in children with problematic IHs by evaluating the effects of systemic propranolol on hemodynamics and blood sugar levels. Thirty‐one children were admitted to the hospital to begin oral propranolol at a dose of 2 mg/kg/per day. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), and blood glucose (BG) measurements were obtained at baseline and 1 to 3 hours before and after each dose of propranolol. No caregivers reported any adverse effects during the hospitalization. On average, HR decreased by 5 beats per minute (bpm) (p < 0.01) and systolic BP decreased by 4 mmHg (p < 0.01) after propranolol administration. There was no statistically significant change in diastolic BP or BG with propranolol therapy. Over the first three doses of propranolol we saw statistically significant attenuation of the effects of propranolol on HR, with HR approaching baseline values during the hospitalization (p = 0.04). We did not see statistically significant changes in BP over the course of three doses of propranolol. This study suggests that 24‐hour hospitalization with hemodynamic monitoring may not be necessary for safe initiation of propranolol therapy in otherwise healthy infants. Parental education on frequent feedings to decrease the chance of hypoglycemia may be as effective as 24‐hour hospitalization.
Capillary‐Venous Malformation in the Lower Limb
Authors: Uihlein Lily C. , Liang Marilyn G. , Fishman Steven J. , Alomari Ahmad I. , Mulliken John B.
Published: July 2013

Regional capillary malformation of a lower extremity is associated with the overgrowth of bone or soft tissue in several disorders, most commonly Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome and Parkes Weber syndrome. We have observed a subset of patients with a capillary malformation of the leg, minor growth disturbance, and prominent veins. The objective of the current study is to describe a series of patients with regional capillary malformation of the lower extremity in association with phlebectasia. This is a retrospective series of 17 patients diagnosed with capillary‐venous malformation of the lower extremity. We excluded patients with clinical or radiographic evidence of lymphatic or arteriovenous malformation. Age, presentation, associated features, radiographic findings, and management were documented. In most patients the capillary malformation covered a large area without sharply demarcated borders. Four patients had one or more discrete, well‐defined capillary stains involving less than 5% of the total surface area of the affected lower limb. Prominent veins were most common in the popliteal fossa and on the knee and dorsal foot. Approximately two‐thirds of patients had a leg length discrepancy, with the affected leg being longer (n = 6) or shorter (n = 4); in many the affected leg was also slightly larger (n = 8) or smaller (n = 4) in girth. Radiographic imaging showed dilatation of superficial (n = 16), muscular (n = 9), and deep veins (n = 6). We characterize a subset of patients with regional capillary‐venous malformation of the lower extremity with prominent veins and minor hypotrophy/hypertrophy that differs from Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome (capillary‐lymphatic‐venous malformation) but belongs at the minor end of the spectrum of vascular disorders with overgrowth.
Leishmania major inhibits IL‐12 in macrophages by signalling through CR3 (CD11b/CD18) and down‐regulation of ETS‐mediated transcription
Authors: Ricardo‐Carter C. , Favila M. , Polando R. E. , Cotton R. N. , Bogard Horner K. , Condon D. , Ballhorn W. , Whitcomb J. P. , Yadav M. , Geister R. L. , Schorey J. S. , McDowell M. A.
Published: July 2013

Leishmania major is an aetiological agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The parasite primarily infects immune sentinel cells, specifically macrophages and dendritic cells, in the mammalian host. Infection is receptor mediated and is known to involve parasite binding to cell surface protein complement receptor 3 (CR3, Mac‐1, CD11b/CD18). Engagement of CR3 by various ligands inhibits production of interleukin‐12 (IL‐12), the cytokine that drives antileishmanial T helper 1‐type immune responses. Likewise, L. major infection inhibits IL‐12 production and activation of host macrophages. Our data indicate that in the absence of CR3, L. major‐infected bone marrow‐derived macrophages produce more IL‐12 and nitric oxide compared with WT cells upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. We therefore investigated multiple signalling pathways by which L. major may inhibit IL‐12 transcription through CR3 ligation. We demonstrate that L. major infection does not elicit significant NFκB p65, MAPK, IRF‐1 or IRF‐8 activation in WT or CD11b‐deficient macrophages. Furthermore, infection neither inhibits LPS‐induced MAPK or NFκB activation nor blocks IFN‐γ‐activated IRF‐1 and IRF‐8. ETS‐mediated transcription, however, is inhibited by L. major infection independently of CR3. Our data indicate that L. major‐mediated inhibition of IL‐12 occurs through CR3 engagement; however, the mechanism of inhibition is independent of NFκB, MAPK, IRF and ETS.
The effects of co‐infection by different Potato virus Y (PVY) isolates on virus concentration in solanaceous hosts and efficiency of transmission
Authors: Syller J. , Grupa A.
Published: July 2013

The influence of co‐infection on concentration and accumulation of genetically different isolates of Potato virus Y (PVY) in potato and tobacco plants and the efficiency of transmission by Myzus persicae of PVY isolates from doubly versus singly infected plants were evaluated. The vector ability to simultaneously transmit two virus isolates was examined. Eight PVY isolates represented three strain groups: PVYO (pathotype and serotype O), PVYNW (pathotype N and serotype O), and PVYNTN (pathotype and serotype N). Different diagnostic methods, including DAS‐ELISA, multiplex RT‐PCR, aphid transmission tests and bioassays, were applied to detect the presence of PVY isolates in source and assay plants. Significant reductions in concentrations of certain PVY isolates during co‐infection with other isolates were found both in potato and tobacco plants. The observed effects were both isolate‐ and host‐dependent in form. The highest rates of virus transmission by single aphids were recorded with PVYNTN isolates, and the lowest ones with PVYO isolates. Individual aphids of M. persicae were able to simultaneously transmit two PVY isolates. The frequency of transmission was generally low, but it reached as high as 20% for one of the isolate combinations. The findings presented in the work provide proof for antagonistic within‐plant interactions between isolates of PVY, with some implications of these interactions for virus transmission by aphid vectors. Consequently, this research contributes to a better understanding of the epidemiology of the disease caused by PVY.
Heterogeneity of Pseudomonas savastanoi populations infecting Myrtus communis in Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Cinelli T. , Marchi G. , Cimmino A. , Marongiu R. , Evidente A. , Fiori M.
Published: July 2013

Genetic, phenotypic and host range diversity among Pseudomonas savastanoi isolates from Myrtus communis were investigated. Thirty‐one isolates from six Sardinian commercial myrtle orchards and three isolates from plants growing spontaneously on the island of Rhodes (Greece) were compared with reference strains of P. savastanoi from olive, oleander, ash and myrtle. Multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) indicated the presence of a monomorphic population with a very low level of variability. Conversely, Biolog phenotypic fingerprinting and phytohormone production analyses showed a considerable metabolic diversity, as bacteria obtained from single infected tissue differed more than bacteria obtained from different orchards. When pathogenicity tests were carried out on myrtle plants, different types of symptoms were induced: knots, canker lesions with or without tissue proliferations and, occasionally, wilting of the inoculated twig, a symptom never reported before for P. savastanoi. Comparable symptoms were also observed in the natural environment both on spontaneous and cultivated plants. Moreover, the host range of the myrtle population was heterogeneous and not well defined. Some isolates showed a wide host range whilst others were pathogenic only to their natural host. Overall these findings suggest that the diversity of the P. savastanoi population from myrtle does not depend so much on the locality or the natural host and does not allow the Sardinian and Greek isolates, together with previously characterized myrtle strains, to be ascribed to a known pathovar of P. savastanoi, nor to propose their belonging, as a whole, to a new pathovar.
Monitoring oxidative stress during chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations using malondialdehyde
Authors: Antus Balazs , Harnasi Gabriella , Drozdovszky Orsolya , Barta Imre
Published: July 2013

Background and objective

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this longitudinal study changes in the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), an end product of polyunsaturated fatty acid peroxidation, were investigated in the airways of patients with acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).

Methods

Levels of MDA were measured in sputum and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) of 34 COPD patients at the time of hospital admission due to an acute exacerbation of the disease, and again following treatment at the time of hospital discharge. MDA was also assessed in 21 stable patients with COPD and 20 healthy controls. Measurements were performed using high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Sputum MDA levels were significantly increased in AECOPD (220.0 ± 17.5 nmol/L) compared with stable disease (144.6 ± 14.3 nmol/L, P < 0.01) and healthy controls (85.9 ± 11.3 nmol/L, P < 0.001). MDA levels decreased after treatment (190.7 ± 16.3 nmol/L, P < 0.05). In contrast to sputum, EBC MDA levels were comparable between controls, stable COPD patients and AECOPD patients (73.1 ± 5.1 nmol/L, 96.1 ± 11.6 nmol/L and 93.3 ± 7.6 nmol/L, P = NS). Measurement of MDA had good repeatability in both sputum and EBC, but the between‐day variability was considerably higher in EBC. Sputum induction did not influence MDA levels.

Conclusions

MDA in sputum, but not in EBC, appears to be a useful marker for monitoring exacerbation‐associated oxidative stress in AECOPD.
Eliciting and Combining Decision Criteria Using a Limited Palette of Utility Functions and Uncertainty Distributions: Illustrated by Application to Pest Risk Analysis
Authors: Holt Johnson , Leach Adrian W. , Schrader Gritta , Petter Françoise , MacLeod Alan , van der Gaag Dirk Jan , Baker Richard H. A. , Mumford John D.
Published: July 2013

Utility functions in the form of tables or matrices have often been used to combine discretely rated decision‐making criteria. Matrix elements are usually specified individually, so no one rule or principle can be easily stated for the utility function as a whole. A series of five matrices are presented that aggregate criteria two at a time using simple rules that express a varying degree of constraint of the lower rating over the higher. A further nine possible matrices were obtained by using a different rule either side of the main axis of the matrix to describe situations where the criteria have a differential influence on the outcome. Uncertainties in the criteria are represented by three alternative frequency distributions from which the assessors select the most appropriate. The output of the utility function is a distribution of rating frequencies that is dependent on the distributions of the input criteria. In pest risk analysis (PRA), seven of these utility functions were required to mimic the logic by which assessors for the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization arrive at an overall rating of pest risk. The framework enables the development of PRAs that are consistent and easy to understand, criticize, compare, and change. When tested in workshops, PRA practitioners thought that the approach accorded with both the logic and the level of resolution that they used in the risk assessments.
Caring for people with dementia disease (DD) and working in a private not‐for‐profit residential care facility for people with DD
Authors: Ericson‐Lidman Eva , Larsson Lise‐lotte Franklin , Norberg Astrid
Published: July 2013

Caring for people with dementia and working in dementia care is described as having both rewarding and unpleasant aspects and has been studied to a minor extent. This study aims to explore care providers' narrated experiences of caring for people with dementia disease (DD) and working in a private not‐for‐profit residential care facility for people with DD. Nine care providers were interviewed about their experiences, the interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. The analysis revealed that participants were struggling to perform person‐centred care, which meant trying to see the person behind the disease, dealing with troublesome situations in the daily care, a two‐edged interaction with relatives, feelings of shortcomings and troubled conscience, and the need for improvements in dementia care. The analysis also revealed an ambiguous work situation, which meant a challenging value base, the differently judged work environment, feelings of job satisfaction and the need for a functional leadership and management. The results illuminate participants' positive as well as negative experiences and have identified areas requiring improvements. It seems of great importance to strive for a supportive and attendant leadership, a leadership which aims to empower care providers in their difficult work. Using conscience as a driving force together in the work group may benefit care providers' health.
Predictors of Suicidal Ideation in a Gender‐Stratified Sample of OEF/OIF Veterans
Authors: Gradus Jaimie L. , Street Amy E. , Suvak Michael K. , Resick Patricia A.
Published: July 2013

There is a growing concern about suicide among Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) veterans. We examined the role of postdeployment mental health in associations between deployment stressors and postdeployment suicidal ideation (SI) in a national sample of 2,321 female and male OEF/OIF veterans. Data were obtained via survey, and path analysis was used. For women and men, mental health symptoms largely accounted for associations between deployment stressors and SI; however, they only partly accounted for the sexual harassment and SI association among women. These findings enhance the understanding of the mental health profile of OEF/OIF veterans.
Advances in Patient Adherence to Medical Treatment Regimens: The Emerging Role of Technology in Adherence Monitoring and Management
Authors: Bryant Howren M. , Van Liew Julia R. , Christensen Alan J.
Published: July 2013

Adherence is a term used to describe the extent to which an individual's behavior coincides with health‐related instructions or recommendations given by a healthcare provider in the context of a specific disease or disorder. Despite significant advances in biomedical science related to the treatment of disease, the problem of nonadherence remains pervasive and may be aptly described as a global public health concern. The recent proliferation of telemedicine coupled with the ubiquity of personal computers, mobile phones, and other wireless communication devices have, in part, led to the development and implementation of a variety of technology‐based methods used to assess, monitor, and manage adherence. As the chronic illness burden continues to grow, these methods may offer solutions to some of the limitations of traditional means particularly for conditions requiring complex self‐management and lifestyle adjustment. In this article, we briefly review recent advances in adherence monitoring and management including m‐health, home telemonitoring systems, web‐based support (i.e., self‐management websites and virtual support groups), and patient portals and personal health records before concluding with a brief account of some exciting new technologies under development in the context of patient adherence.
The Sensitivity to Mean Intentions (SeMI) Model: Basic Assumptions, Recent Findings, and Potential Avenues for Future Research
Authors: Gollwitzer Mario , Rothmund Tobias , Süssenbach Philipp
Published: July 2013

A large body of research has demonstrated that people who are habitually sensitive towards victimization tend to behave uncooperatively and immorally in socially uncertain situations. The “Sensitivity to Mean Intentions” (SeMI) model (Gollwitzer & Rothmund 2009) aims at describing social‐cognitive mechanisms that underlie and explain this effect. The model posits that in socially uncertain situations, victim‐sensitive individuals are asymmetrically sensitive to cues of untrustworthiness. When such cues are present, suspicious cognitive and motivational reactions are triggered in victim‐sensitive individuals, and they behave preemptively selfish to avoid being exploited by others. Although functional at times, victim sensitivity does have dysfunctional side effects. The present article reviews recent findings regarding the SeMI model and sketches potential avenues for future research.
The effects of DELLAs on growth change with developmental stage and brassinosteroid levels
Authors: Stewart Lilley Jodi L. , Gan Yinbo , Graham Ian A. , Nemhauser Jennifer L.
Published: July 2013

There are two stages in photomorphogenesis. First, seedlings detect light and open their cotyledons. Second, seedlings optimize their light environment by controlled elongation of the seedling stem or hypocotyl. In this study, we used time‐lapse imaging to investigate the relationship between the brassinosteroid (BR) and gibberellin (GA) hormones across both stages of photomorphogenesis. During the transition between one stage and the other, growth promotion by BRs and GAs switched from an additive to a synergistic relationship. Molecular genetic analysis revealed unexpected roles for known participants in the GA pathway during this period. Members of the DELLA family could either repress or enhance BR growth responses, depending on developmental stage. At the transition point for seedling growth dynamics, the BR and GA pathways had opposite effects on DELLA protein levels. In contrast to GA‐induced DELLA degradation, BR treatments increased the levels of REPRESSOR of ga1‐3 (RGA) and mimicked the molecular effects of stabilizing DELLAs. In addition, DELLAs showed complex regulation of genes involved in BR biosynthesis, implicating them in BR homeostasis. Growth promotion by GA alone depended on the PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF) family of master growth regulators. The effects of BR, including the synergistic effects with GA, were largely independent of PIFs. These results point to a multi‐level, dynamic relationship between the BR and GA pathways.
Molecular Determinants for Subcellular Trafficking of the Malarial Sheddase PfSUB2
Authors: Child Matthew A. , Harris Philippa K. , Collins Christine R. , Withers‐Martinez Chrislaine , Yeoh Sharon , Blackman Michael J.
Published: July 2013

The malaria merozoite invades erythrocytes in the vertebrate host. Iterative rounds of asexual intraerythrocytic replication result in disease. Proteases play pivotal roles in erythrocyte invasion, but little is understood about their mode of action. The Plasmodium falciparum malaria merozoite surface sheddase, PfSUB2, is one such poorly characterized example. We have examined the molecular determinants that underlie the mechanisms by which PfSUB2 is trafficked initially to invasion‐associated apical organelles (micronemes) and then across the surface of the free merozoite. We show that authentic promoter activity is important for correct localization of PfSUB2, likely requiring canonical features within the intergenic region 5′ of the pfsub2 locus. We further demonstrate that trafficking of PfSUB2 beyond an early compartment in the secretory pathway requires autocatalytic protease activity. Finally, we show that the PfSUB2 transmembrane domain is required for microneme targeting, while the cytoplasmic domain is essential for surface translocation of the protease to the parasite posterior following discharge from micronemes. The interplay of pre‐ and post‐translational regulatory elements that coordinate subcellular trafficking of PfSUB2 provides the parasite with exquisite control over enzyme–substrate interactions.
Anti‐D alloimmunization after D‐incompatible platelet transfusions: a 14‐year single‐institution retrospective review
Authors: O'Brien Kerry L. , Haspel Richard L. , Uhl Lynne
Published: July 2013

Background

A small, but immunogenic dose of red blood cells (RBCs) may be contained in apheresis platelets (PLTs). Attempts are made to provide D− recipients with D− PLTs to prevent anti‐D alloimmunization and the potential for hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has a policy that when necessary to transfuse D+ PLTs to D− patients, we recommend that RhIG be given when the patient is a woman of child‐bearing age or a potential liver transplant patient. We sought to retrospectively determine the rate of anti‐D formation after D‐incompatible apheresis PLT transfusions in those patients not receiving RhIG and not receiving D+ RBCs over a 14‐year period at our institution.

Study Design and Methods

All D− patients (626) who received D+ prestorage leukoreduced apheresis PLTs between January 1, 1997, and December 31, 2011, were identified. Those patients who received RhIG (45), D+ RBC transfusions (50), or stem cell transplantation from a D+ donor (16); had prior anti‐D (23); or had unresolved Rh at admission (8) were not eligible for analysis. Only those patients who had an antibody screen performed at least 4 weeks after the incipient PLT transfusion were evaluated (130).

Results

Of 130 eligible D− patients, 48% women and 57% immunocompetent, who received a total of 565 apheresis PLTs, none formed anti‐D.

Conclusion

These findings support the use of D+ apheresis PLTs without RhIG irrespective of D status in all recipients.
Acute dystonia mimicking angioedema of the tongue: a video-illustrated case
Authors: Rasmussen Eva Rye , Pallesen Kristine A U , Bygum Anette
Published: July 2013

We report a case of acute dystonia of the face, jaw and tongue caused by metoclopramide and mimicking angioedema. The patient had attacks for several years before the correct diagnosis was made and we present the first ever published video footage of an attack. This adverse drug reaction is known, but might be underdiagnosed since it can mimic a wide range of other diseases.
RADIAL-BASED SIGNAL-PROCESSING COMBINED WITH METHODS OF MACHINE LEARNING
Authors: WEICHERT F. , GASPAR M. , WAGNER M.
Published: July 2013

The present paper describes a novel approach to performing feature extraction and classification in possibly layered circular structures, as seen in two-dimensional cutting planes of three-dimensional tube-shaped objects. The algorithm can therefore be used to analyze histological specimens of blood vessels as well as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) datasets. The approach uses a radial signal-based extraction of textural features in combination with methods of machine learning to integrate a priori domain knowledge. The algorithm in principle solves a two-dimensional classification problem that is reduced to parallel viable time series analysis. A multiscale approach hereby determines a feature vector for each analysis using either a Wavelet-transform (WT) or a S-transform (ST). The classification is done by methods of machine learning — here support vector machines. A modified marching squares algorithm extracts the polygonal segments for the two-dimensional classification. The accuracy is above 80% even in datasets with a considerable quantity of artifacts, while the mean accuracy is above 90%. The benefit of the approach therefore mainly lies in its robustness, efficient calculation, and the integration of domain knowledge.
SOFTWARE RELEASE TIME BASED ON DIFFERENT MULTI-ATTRIBUTE UTILITY FUNCTIONS
Authors: KAPUR P. K. , SINGH V. B. , SINGH OMPAL , SINGH JYOTISH N. P.
Published: July 2013

The decision to release a software product will become an even more complex and important decision. A decision has strategic value when it has the potential for large prospective financial losses to a software manufacturer or its customers or end-users. A software release decision is a tradeoff between early release to capture the benefits of an earlier market introduction and the deferral of product release to the reliability. If a software product is released too early, the software manufacturer incurs post-release costs of later fixing failures. If a software product is released too late, the additional development cost and the opportunity cost of missing a market window could be substantial. These two attribute reliability and cost need to be combined to determine the optimal release time of software. This paper proposes a new practical method for determining when to stop software testing considering reliability and cost as two factors simultaneously. The proposed new decision model is based on three different weighted combination of utility function in Multi-attribute utility theory.
ON RELIABILITY OF CIRCULAR "r-CONSECUTIVE-k-OUT-OF-n: F SYSTEMS"
Authors: GHORAF NAMIR
Published: July 2013

An "r-consecutive-k-out-of-n: F system" consists of n linearly or cyclically ordered components. The system fails if and only if at least r nonoverlapping sequences of k consecutive components fail. In this paper, we give recursive formulas to compute the reliability of circular "r-consecutive-k-out-of-n: F system" in general case. More precisely, our goal in the present paper is to give formulas to evaluate the reliability of the circular "r-consecutive-k-out-of-n: F system" via those of a linear one.
CHARACTERIZATION AND HARDNESS OFCo–PCOATINGS OBTAINED FROM DIRECT CURRENT ELECTRODEPOSITION USING GLUCONATE BATH
Authors: SEENIVASAN H. , BERA PARTHASARATHI , RAJAM K. S. , PARIDA SANJIT KUMAR
Published: July 2013

Direct current electrodeposition of Co – P alloy coatings were carried out using gluconate bath and they were characterized by employing techniques like XRD, FESEM, DSC and XPS. Broad XRD lines demonstrate the amorphous nature of Co – P coatings. Spherical and rough nodules are observed on the surface of coatings as seen from FESEM images. Three exothermic peaks around 290, 342 and 390°C in DSC profiles of Co – P coatings could be attributed to the crystallization and formation of Co2P phase in the coatings. As-deposited coatings consist of Co metal and oxidized Co species as revealed by XPS studies. Bulk alloy P ( Pδ-) as well as oxidized P ( P5+) are present on the surface of coatings. Concentrations of Co metal and Pδ-increase with successive sputtering of the coating. Observed microhardness value is 1005 HK when Co – P coating obtained from 10 g L-1NaH2PO2is heated at 400°C that is comparable with hard chromium coatings.
ABSORPTION SPECTRA OF NUCLEIC ACID BASES IN WATER ENVIRONMENT: INSIGHTS INTO FROM COMBINED QM/MM AND CLUSTER-CONTINUUM MODEL CALCULATIONS
Authors: ZHAO YUAN , CAO ZEXING
Published: July 2013

Electronic spectra of uracil, thymine, adenine, guanine, and cytosine in the gas phase and aqueous solution have been studied by extensive time-dependent density functional calculations. Calculations show that the Quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) geometry optimization based on the molecular dynamics (MD) equilibrated configuration can locate an optimal solvated cluster for the base solvation, and the combined QM/MM and cluster-continuum computational protocol is capable of handling the solvent effect on the excited states of nucleic acid bases and providing realistic absorption spectra in water environment with relatively low computational costs. Generally, the vertical excitation energies in aqueous solution by PCM/TD-X3LYP calculations show excellent agreement with the experimental observations and the maximum deviation is less than 0.2 eV. The present results reveal that the hydrogen bond network around the excited-state base and its dipole moment change may remarkably modify the absorption spectra of nucleic acid bases in aqueous solution.
Something Silent This Way Forms: The Functional Organization of the Repressive Nuclear Compartment
Authors: Politz Joan C. Ritland , Scalzo David , Groudine Mark
Published: July 2013

The repressive compartment of the nucleus is comprised primarily of telomeric and centromeric regions, the silent portion of ribosomal RNA genes, the majority of transposable element repeats, and facultatively repressed genes specific to different cell types. This compartment localizes into three main regions: the peripheral heterochromatin, perinucleolar heterochromatin, and pericentromeric heterochromatin. Both chromatin remodeling proteins and transcription of noncoding RNAs are involved in maintenance of repression in these compartments. Global reorganization of the repressive compartment occurs at each cell division, during early development, and during terminal differentiation. Differential action of chromatin remodeling complexes and boundary element looping activities are involved in mediating these organizational changes. We discuss the evidence that heterochromatin formation and compartmentalization may drive nuclear organization.
Selection and Adaptation in the Human Genome
Authors: Fu Wenqing , Akey Joshua M.
Published: July 2013

An enduring goal of evolutionary biology is to understand how natural selection has shaped patterns of polymorphism and divergence within and between species and to map the genetic basis of adaptations. The rapid maturation of next-generation sequencing technology has generated a deluge of genomics data from nonhuman primates, extinct hominins, and diverse human populations. These emerging genome data sets have simultaneously broadened our understanding of human evolution and sharply defined existing gaps in knowledge about the mechanistic basis of evolutionary change. In this review, we summarize recent insights into how natural selection has influenced the human genome across different timescales. Although the path to a more comprehensive understanding of selection and adaptation in humans remains arduous, some general insights are beginning to emerge, such as the importance of adaptive regulatory evolution, the absence of pervasive classic selective sweeps, and the potential roles that selection from standing variation and polygenic adaptation have likely played in recent human evolutionary history.
Neutrophils VersusStaphylococcus aureus: A Biological Tug of War
Authors: Spaan András N. , Surewaard Bas G.J. , Nijland Reindert , van Strijp Jos A.G.
Published: July 2013

The pathogen Staphylococcus aureus is well adapted to its human host. Neutrophil-mediated killing is a crucial defense system against S. aureus; however, the pathogen has evolved many strategies to resist killing. We first describe the discrete steps of neutrophil activation and migration to the site of infection and the killing of microbes by neutrophils in general. We then highlight the different approaches utilized by S. aureus to resist the different steps of neutrophil attack. Various molecules are discussed in their evolutionary context. Most of the molecules secreted by S. aureus to combat neutrophil attacks at the site of infection show clear human specificity. Many elements of human neutrophil defenses appear redundant, and so the evasion strategies of staphylococci display redundant functions as well. All efforts by S. aureus to resist neutrophil-mediated killing stress the importance of these mechanisms in the pathophysiology of staphylococcal diseases. However, the highly human-specific nature of most host-pathogen interactions hinders the in vivo establishment of their contribution to staphylococcal pathophysiology.
The Association of the Immune Response Genes to Human Papillomavirus-Related Cervical Disease in a Brazilian Population
Authors: Marangon Amanda Vansan , Guelsin Gláucia Andreia Soares , Visentainer Jeane Eliete Laguila , Borelli Sueli Donizete , Watanabe Maria Angélica Ehara , Consolaro Márcia Edilaine Lopes , Caleffi-Ferracioli Katiany Rizzieri , Rudnick Cristiane Conceição Chagas , Sell Ana Maria
Published: July 2013

The genetic variability of the host contributes to the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cervical disease. Immune response genes to HPV must be investigated to define patients with the highest risk of developing malignant disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of polymorphic immune response genes, namelyKIR, HLA class I and II, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of cytokines with HPV-related cervical disease. We selected 79 non-related, admixed Brazilian women from the state of Paraná, southern region of Brazil, who were infected with high carcinogenic risk HPV and present cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN3), and 150 HPV-negative women from the same region matched for ethnicity.KIRgenes were genotyped using an in-house PCR-SSP. HLA alleles were typed using a reverse sequence-specific oligonucleotide technique. SNPs ofTNF −308G>A, IL6 −174G>C, IFNG +874T>A, TGFB1 +869T>C +915G>C,andIL10 −592C>A −819C>T −1082G>Awere evaluated using PCR-SSP. TheKIRgenes were not associated with HPV, although some pairs of i(inhibitory)KIR-ligands occurred more frequently in patients, supporting a role for NK in detrimental chronic inflammatory and carcinogenesis. Some HLA haplotypes were associated with HPV. The associations ofINFGandIL10SNPs potentially reflect impaired or invalid responses in advanced lesions.
Challenges of the Modeling Methods for Investigating the Interaction between the CNT and the Surrounding Polymer
Authors: Rafiee Roham , Rabczuk Timon , Pourazizi Reza , Zhao Junhua , Zhang Yancheng
Published: July 2013

The interaction between the carbon nanotubes (CNT) and the polymer is a key factor for determining the mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of the CNT/polymer nanocomposite. However, it is difficult to measure experimentally the interfacial bonding properties between the CNT and the surrounding polymer. Therefore, computational modeling is used to predict the interaction properties. Different scale models, from atomistic to continuum, are critically reviewed addressing the advantages, the disadvantages, and the future challenges. Various methods of improvement for measuring the interaction properties are described. Finally, it is concluded that the semicontinuum modeling may be the best candidate for modeling the interaction between the CNT and the polymer.
Gastrostomy Tube Use after Transoral Robotic Surgery for Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Al-khudari Samer , Bendix Scott , Lindholm Jamie , Simmerman Erin , Hall Francis , Ghanem Tamer
Published: July 2013

Objective. To evaluate factors that influence gastrostomy tube (g-tube) use after transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for oropharyngeal (OP) cancer. Study Design/Methods. Retrospective review of TORS patients with OP cancer. G-tube presence was recorded before and after surgery at followup. Kaplan-Meier and Cox hazards model evaluated effects of early (T1 and T2) and advanced (T3, T4) disease, adjuvant therapy, and free flap reconstruction on g-tube use. Results. Sixteen patients had tonsillar cancer and 13 tongue base cancer. Of 22 patients who underwent TORS as primary therapy, 17 had T1 T2 stage and five T3 T4 stage. Seven underwent salvage therapy (four T1 T2 and three T3 T4). Nine underwent robotic-assisted inset free flap reconstruction. Seventeen received adjuvant therapy. Four groups were compared: primary early disease (PED) T1 and T2 tumors, primary early disease with adjunctive therapy (PEDAT), primary advanced disease (PAD) T3 and T4 tumors, and salvage therapy. Within the first year of treatment, 0% PED, 44% PEDAT, 40% PAD, and 57% salvage patients required a g-tube. Fourteen patients had a temporary nasoenteric tube (48.3%) postoperatively, and 10 required a g-tube (34.5%) within the first year. Four of 22 (18.2%) with TORS as primary treatment were g-tube dependent at one year and had received adjuvant therapy. Conclusion. PED can be managed without a g-tube after TORS. Similar feeding tube rates were found for PEDAT and PAD patients. Salvage patients have a high rate of g-tube need after TORS.
Organochlorine Pesticide Levels and Risk of Parkinson’s Disease in North Indian Population
Authors: Chhillar Neelam , Singh Neeraj Kumar , Banerjee B. D. , Bala Kiran , Mustafa Md , Sharma Deepika , Chhillar Mitrabasu
Published: July 2013

The cause of Parkinson’s disease (PD) remains elusive, but environmental chemical exposures have been postulated to be involved in the etiology of PD. We examined the association between the persistent organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and PD in the North Indian population. This case control study included 70 PD and 75 control subjects in the age group of 50 to 85 years. Blood samples were collected and high-purity grade hexane and acetone (2 : 1 ratio) were used for extraction of organochlorine residues. OCPs (hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), aldrin, dieldrin, endosulfan, pp′-Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (pp′-DDE), op′-DDE, pp′- Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (pp′-DDT), op′-DDT, pp′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (pp′-DDD) and op′-DDD) were quantitatively estimated by using gas chromatography. The most frequently detected OCP was dieldrin, which was present in 9.3% of control and 61.4% of PD. The strongest predictor was β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), which reported an odds ratio of 2.566, indicating that for every additional one unit of β-HCH, patients had 2.566 times more chances of presence of PD. This study indicates that increased level of β-HCH and dieldrin may be associated with the risk of PD.
A Representation of the Exact Solution of Generalized Lane-Emden Equations Using a New Analytical Method
Authors: Abu Arqub Omar , El-Ajou Ahmad , Bataineh A. Sami , Hashim I.
Published: July 2013

A new analytic method is applied to singular initial-value Lane-Emden-type problems, and the effectiveness and performance of the method is studied. The proposed method obtains a Taylor expansion of the solution, and when the solution is polynomial, our method reproduces the exact solution. It is observed that the method is easy to implement, valuable for handling singular phenomena, yields excellent results at a minimum computational cost, and requires less time. Computational results of several test problems are presented to demonstrate the viability and practical usefulness of the method. The results reveal that the method is very effective, straightforward, and simple.
Comparative Evaluation of Infected and NoninfectedAmblyomma tristeTicks withRickettsia parkeri, the Agent of an Emerging Rickettsiosis in the New World
Authors: Nieri-Bastos F. A. , Szabó M. P. J. , Pacheco R. C. , Soares J. F. , Soares H. S. , Moraes-Filho J. , Dias R. A. , Labruna M. B.
Published: July 2013

The distribution ofRickettsia parkeriin South America has been associated withAmblyomma tristeticks. The present study evaluated under laboratory conditions two colonies ofA. triste: one started from engorged females that were naturally infected byR. parkeri(designated as infected group); the other started from noninfected females (designated as control group). Both colonies were reared in parallel for five consecutive generations. Tick-naïve domestic rabbits were used for feeding of each tick stage and generation.R. parkeriwas preserved by transstadial maintenance and transovarial transmission inA. tristeticks for five consecutive generations, because all tested larvae, nymphs, and adults from the infected group were shown by PCR to contain rickettsial DNA. All rabbits infested by larvae, nymphs, and adults from the infected group seroconverted, indicating that these tick stages were all vector competent forR. parkeri. Expressive differences in mortality rates were observed between engorged nymphs from the infected and control groups, as indicated by 65.9% and 92.4% molting success, respectively. Our results indicate thatA. tristecan act as a natural reservoir forR. parkeri. However, due to deleterious effect caused byR. parkerion engorged nymphs, amplifier vertebrate hosts might be necessary for natural long-term maintenance ofR. parkeriinA. triste.
Capacity Analysis for Parallel Runway through Agent-Based Simulation
Authors: Peng Yang , Wei Gao , Jun-Qing Sun
Published: July 2013

Parallel runway is the mainstream structure of China hub airport, runway is often the bottleneck of an airport, and the evaluation of its capacity is of great importance to airport management. This study outlines a model, multiagent architecture, implementation approach, and software prototype of a simulation system for evaluating runway capacity. Agent Unified Modeling Language (AUML) is applied to illustrate the inbound and departing procedure of planes and design the agent-based model. The model is evaluated experimentally, and the quality is studied in comparison with models, created by SIMMOD and Arena. The results seem to be highly efficient, so the method can be applied to parallel runway capacity evaluation and the model propose favorable flexibility and extensibility.