bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A binaural acoustic recording tag reveals details of deep foraging in beaked whales
Authors: Johnson Mark , Madsen Peter , Tyack Peter , Aguilar de Soto Natacha
Published: October 2013

A new acoustic and orientation recording tag (DTAG) for marine mammals contains two hydrophones, 25 mm apart, sampled at 192 kHz. Data are stored with loss-less compression in 6.6 GB of memory giving a 9.5 h recording capacity. Stereo DTAGs have been attached with suction cups to Cuvier’s and Blainville’s beaked whales in Liguria and the Canary Islands. Both species make regular clicks centered at 40 kHz during foraging dives. The DTAGs recorded clicks from the tagged whale and other whales nearby as well as echoes from targets in the water. The angle-of-arrival (AoA) of these sounds was determined both by cross-correlation and time-delay fitting of signals from the two hydrophones on the tag. The AoAs of clicks from tagged whales reveal that they turn their heads from side-to-side while foraging while the AoAs of echoes are consistent with a beam-width of about 20. By scanning a narrow acoustic beam, the whales may be able to search a large water volume while reducing clutter from multiple echoes. Frequent clicks from untagged whales with distinct AoAs indicate that several whales forage together during deep dives and such group cohesion may be a contributing factor to strandings of these species related to use of naval sonar.
Acoustic power and intensity control by absorptive materials arrangement in an enclosure
Authors: Cho Sung-Ho , Kim Yang-Hann
Published: October 2013

This paper studies how the sound distribution of room or cavity is affected by the absorptive materials arrangement on the wall. In other words, we want to know, very specifically, how the change of boundary condition affects rooms sound distribution. The boundary condition can be modified by changing not only absorbents position but also its acoustic impedance. The effect of changing boundary condition is expressed in terms of modal admittance on the enclosures surface. What we have gotten from this study is that the absorptive materials placement is closely related to wave length, cavity size and geometry. The authors pay attention to the intensity field, especially reactive intensity divergence in space. The divergence of reactive component of intensity is directly related to acoustic energy distribution which is composed of potential and kinetic energy. Using acoustic energy balance equation, the relation between global noise control performance and absorptive material arrangement is explained. In this point of view, the possibility of global noise reduction will be discussed in terms of acoustic potential energy reduction.
Oxytocin Curbs Cookie Consumption
Authors: Jastreboff Ania M.
Published: October 2013

Intranasal oxytocin administration decreases reward-based food consumption in humans.
Infectious Bronchitis Virus Generates Spherules from Zippered Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes
Authors: Maier Helena J. , Hawes Philippa C. , Cottam Eleanor M. , Mantell Judith , Verkade Paul , Monaghan Paul , Wileman Tom , Britton Paul
Published: October 2013

Replication of positive-sense RNA viruses is associated with the rearrangement of cellular membranes. Previous work on the infection of tissue culture cell lines with the betacoronaviruses mouse hepatitis virus and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) showed that they generate double-membrane vesicles (DMVs) and convoluted membranes as part of a reticular membrane network. Here we describe a detailed study of the membrane rearrangements induced by the avian gammacoronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in a mammalian cell line but also in primary avian cells and in epithelial cells of
ex vivo
tracheal organ cultures. In all cell types, structures novel to IBV infection were identified that we have termed zippered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and spherules. Zippered ER lacked luminal space, suggesting zippering of ER cisternae, while spherules appeared as uniform invaginations of zippered ER. Electron tomography showed that IBV-induced spherules are tethered to the zippered ER and that there is a channel connecting the interior of the spherule with the cytoplasm, a feature thought to be necessary for sites of RNA synthesis but not seen previously for membrane rearrangements induced by coronaviruses. We also identified DMVs in IBV-infected cells that were observed as single individual DMVs or were connected to the ER via their outer membrane but not to the zippered ER. Interestingly, IBV-induced spherules strongly resemble confirmed sites of RNA synthesis for alphaviruses, nodaviruses, and bromoviruses, which may indicate similar strategies of IBV and these diverse viruses for the assembly of RNA replication complexes.

IMPORTANCE
All positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses induce rearranged cellular membranes, providing a platform for viral replication complex assembly and protecting viral RNA from cellular defenses. We have studied the membrane rearrangements induced by an important poultry pathogen, the gammacoronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV). Previous work studying closely related betacoronaviruses identified double-membrane vesicles (DMVs) and convoluted membranes (CMs) derived from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in infected cells. However, the role of DMVs and CMs in viral RNA synthesis remains unclear because these sealed vesicles lack a means of delivering viral RNA to the cytoplasm. Here, we characterized structures novel to IBV infection: zippered ER and small vesicles tethered to the zippered ER termed spherules. Significantly, spherules contain a channel connecting their interior to the cytoplasm and strongly resemble confirmed sites of RNA synthesis for other positive-sense RNA viruses, making them ideal candidates for the site of IBV RNA synthesis.
Accuracy of the concentration of morphine infusions prepared for patients in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Aguado-Lorenzo Virginia , Weeks Kevin , Tunstell Paul , Turnock Karen , Watts Timothy , Arenas-Lopez Sara
Published: October 2013

Objective

To investigate the accuracy of morphine infusions prepared for neonates in relation to the label strength and to identify the differences in deviation between infusions made in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and those dispensed ready-to-use from pharmacy.

Methods

Unused portions of morphine solution for infusion were collected over a 6-weeks period and used to determine the concentration of the drug by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results

A total of 19.2% of infusions prepared by nurses in the ward and 7.8% prepared in the pharmacy were outside the limit required by the British Pharmacopoeia (±7.5%). Moreover, a deviation in concentration of more than 20% was found in ward-prepared infusions, although this was caused by volume discrepancies of less than 0.2 mL. The frequency and magnitude of deviations found in infusions prepared in pharmacy was lower than in those prepared by NICU. The latter showed significantly higher number of out-of-specification samples (p=0.015); however, deviations from intended concentration occurred in both settings. Significant differences between pharmacy and NICU for volumes of less than 0.5 mL or for less than 1 mL were not identified probably due to small sample size, but statistical data show a trend for differences.

Conclusions

Current practice of preparation of infusions from strengths intended for older children and adults involves dilution of small volumes in a syringe and leads to inaccuracy in the final concentration of infusions for neonatal use. We propose the implementation of standard concentrations for this patient group to effectively eliminate these errors.
Communication in interdisciplinary teams: exploring closed-loop communication during in situ trauma team training
Authors: Härgestam Maria , Lindkvist Marie , Brulin Christine , Jacobsson Maritha , Hultin Magnus
Published: October 2013

Objectives

Investigate the use of call-out (CO) and closed-loop communication (CLC) during a simulated emergency situation, and its relation to profession, age, gender, ethnicity, years in profession, educational experience, work experience and leadership style.

Design

Exploratory study.

Setting

In situ simulator-based interdisciplinary team training using trauma cases at an emergency department.

Participants

The result was based on 16 trauma teams with a total of 96 participants. Each team consisted of two physicians, two registered nurses and two enrolled nurses, identical to a standard trauma team.

Results

The results in this study showed that the use of CO and CLC in trauma teams was limited, with an average of 20 CO and 2.8 CLC/team. Previous participation in trauma team training did not increase the frequency of use of CLC while ≥2 structured trauma courses correlated with increased use of CLC (risk ratio (RR) 3.17, CI 1.22 to 8.24). All professions in the trauma team were observed to initiate and terminate CLC (except for the enrolled nurse from the operation theatre). The frequency of team members’ use of CLC increased significantly with an egalitarian leadership style (RR 1.14, CI 1.04 to 1.26).

Conclusions

This study showed that despite focus on the importance of communication in terms of CO and CLC, the difficulty in achieving safe and reliable verbal communication within the interdisciplinary team remained. This finding indicates the need for validated training models combined with further implementation studies.
Spinal cord stimulators in an outpatient interventional neuroradiology practice
Authors: Padwal Jennifer , Georgy Mark M , Georgy Bassem A
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Spinal cord stimulation is a known modality for the treatment of chronic back and neck pain. Traditionally, spine surgeons and pain physicians perform the procedures. We report our experience in performing neuromodulation procedures in an outpatient interventional neuroradiology practice.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of medical records of all trial and permanent implantation patients over a period of 4 years was performed. 45 patients (32 men) of median age 47 years were included in the study. The primary diagnoses were 23 cases of failed back or neck surgery syndrome, 12 cases of spinal stenosis, 4 cases of axial pain, 3 cases with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, 1 case of peripheral vascular disease, 1 case of phantom limb and 1 case of post-concussion syndrome.

Results

Thirty-four trials were performed in an outpatient clinic while 11 trials were performed in hospital outpatient settings. Trial periods were 3–7 days. 27 patients (60%) who reported ≥50% pain relief underwent a permanent implantation. An interventional neuroradiologist performed 17 implantations, while spine surgeons performed 10 implantations. 23 implants were epidural (19 lumbar and 4 cervical) and four implants were subcutaneous. During the follow-up period, three patients had infections (13%) and required removal of the device and two cases (8%) reported lead migration.

Conclusions

Neuromodulation procedures can be performed safely in an outpatient interventional radiology setting. Although the infection rate was relatively higher in this study population, the other complication rates and trial-to-implant ratio are similar to published data.
LEPTON FLAVOR VIOLATION IN INVERSE SEESAW MODEL
Authors: SUN KE-SHENG , FENG TAI-FU , LUO GUO-HUI , YANG XIU-YI , CHEN JIAN-BIN
Published: October 2013

We analyze the lepton flavor violation processes μ-e conversion, li→ljγ and li→3lj in framework of the Standard Model (SM) extended with inverse seesaw mechanism, as a function of [Formula: see text] that parametrizes the departure from unitary of the light neutrino mixing sub-matrix [Formula: see text]. In a wide range of [Formula: see text], the predictions on the μ-e conversion rates and the branching ratio of μ→eγ are sizeable to be compatible with the experimental upper limits or future experimental sensitivities. For large scale of [Formula: see text], the predictions on branching ratios of other lepton flavor processes can also reach the experimental upper limits or future experimental sensitivities. The value of [Formula: see text] depends on the determinant of the Majorana mass term Mμ. Finally, searching for lepton flavor violation processes in experiment provides us more opportunities for the searches of seesaw nature of the neutrino masses.
WEAK FORCES AND NEUTRINO OSCILLATIONS UNDER THE STANDARDS OF HYBRID GRAVITY WITH TORSION
Authors: CAPOZZIELLO SALVATORE , FABBRI LUCA , VIGNOLO STEFANO
Published: October 2013

We present a unifying approach where weak forces and neutrino oscillations are interpreted under the same standards of torsional hybrid gravity. This gravitational theory mixes metric and metric-affine formalism in presence of torsion and allows to derive an effective scalar field which gives rise to a running coupling for Dirac matter fields. In this picture, two phenomena occurring at different energy scales can be encompassed under the dynamics of such a single scalar field, which represents the further torsional and curvature degrees of freedom.
Media tablets for mobile learning
Authors: Kaganer Evgeny , Giordano Gabriel A. , Brion Sebastien , Tortoriello Marco
Published: October 2013

Tablets offer hope for improving learning and collaboration but only if truly integrated into learning settings.
The end of the American network
Authors: Vardi Moshe Y.
Published: October 2013

Can the Internet be liberated from government meddling?
Why not immortality?
Authors: Van Alstyne Marshall
Published: October 2013

A question of biology, technology, and society.
The complexity of the counting constraint satisfaction problem
Authors: Bulatov Andrei A.
Published: October 2013

The Counting Constraint Satisfaction Problem (#CSP(H)) over a finite relational structure H can be expressed as follows: given a relational structure G over the same vocabulary, determine the number of homomorphisms from G to H. In this article we characterize relational structures H for which (#CSP(H) can be solved in polynomial time and prove that for all other structures the problem is #P-complete.
Genome-wide analysis of the rat colon reveals proximal-distal differences in histone modifications and proto-oncogene expression
Authors: Triff Karen , Konganti Kranti , Gaddis Sally , Zhou Beiyan , Ivanov Ivan , Chapkin Robert S.
Published: October 2013

Since disease susceptibility of the intestine exhibits an anatomical bias, we propose that the chromatin landscape, especially the site-specific epigenetic differences in histone modification patterns throughout the colonic longitudinal axis, contributes to the differential incidence of site-specific pathology. To test this hypothesis, we assessed the chromatin structure associated with gene expression profiles in the rat proximal and distal colon by globally correlating chromatin immunoprecipitation next-generation sequencing analysis (ChIP-Seq) with mRNA transcription (RNA-Seq) data. Crypts were isolated from the proximal and distal colonic regions from rats maintained on a semipurified diet, and mRNA gene expression profiles were generated by RNA-Seq. The remaining isolated crypts were formaldehyde-cross-linked and chromatin immunoprecipitated with antibodies against H3K4me3, H3K9me3, and RNA polymerase II. Globally, RNA-Seq results indicate that 9,866 genes were actively expressed, of which 540 genes were differentially expressed between the proximal and distal colon. Gene ontology analysis indicates that crypt location significantly affected both chromatin and transcriptional regulation of genes involved in enterocyte movement, lipid metabolism, lymphatic development, and immune cell trafficking. Gene function analysis indicates that the PI3-kinase signaling pathway was regulated in a site-specific manner, e.g., proto-oncogenes, JUN, FOS, and ATF, were upregulated in the distal colon. Middle and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were also detected in the colon, including select lncRNAs formerly only detected in the rat nervous system. In summary, distinct combinatorial patterns of histone modifications exist in the proximal versus distal colon. These site-specific differences may explain the differential effects of chemoprotective agents on cell transformation in the ascending (proximal) and descending (distal) colon.
ENU mutation mapped to a distal region of chromosome 11 is a major determinant of bone size
Authors: Edderkaoui Bouchra , Kesavan Chandrasekhar , Baylink David J. , Wergedal Jon E. , Srivastava Apurva K. , Mohan Subburaman
Published: October 2013

Using a phenotype driven n-ethyl-nitrosourea (ENU) screen in growth hormone-deficient mice, we have identified a mutant (named 14104) that exhibited a smaller bone size. Phenotype measurements by microcomputed tomography revealed that mutant mice exhibited a 43 and 34% reduction in tissue area and bone area, respectively at the femur middiaphysis. Dynamic histomorphometry revealed a 30 and 15% lower bone formation rate at the periosteal and endosteal surface, respectively. Breaking strength of the femur was reduced by 30% in the mutant mice. To determine if the 14104 locus is involved in a mechanical loading signaling pathway, the skeletal anabolic response to tibia axial loading was evaluated. The increase in trabecular response in the loaded region was severely compromised by the 14014 mutation. To identify the location of mutation, we performed linkage analysis using 62 polymorphic markers in the B6-DBA/2J F2 mice. The genome-wide linkage analysis identified the location of the mutation to a 72 to 83 cM region on chromosome 11 with peak logarithm of the odds scores of 15 for periosteal circumference at marker D11mit338. Sequence analysis revealed no mutation in the coding region of 11 potential candidate genes. Based on these data and published data on the skeletal phenotype of genes in this region, we concluded that the 109–119 Mb region of chromosome 11 harbors a bone size gene that regulates periosteal bone formation. The mutant strain developed in this study provides an important tool to identify a novel mechanosensitive gene that determines bone size during postnatal development.
Evaluation of NK Cell Function by Flowcytometric Measurement and Impedance Based Assay Using Real-Time Cell Electronic Sensing System
Authors: Park Ki-Hyun , Park Hyesun , Kim Myungshin , Kim Yonggoo , Han Kyungja , Oh Eun-Jee
Published: October 2013

Although real-time cell electronic sensing (RT-CES) system-based natural killer (NK) cytotoxicity has been introduced, it has not been evaluated using human blood samples. In present study, we measured flowcytometry based assay (FCA) and RT-CES based NK cytotoxicity and analyzed degranulation activity (CD107a) and cytokine production. In 98 healthy individuals, FCA with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) at effector to target (E/T) ratio of 32 revealed 46.5 ± 2.6% cytolysis of K562 cells, and 23.5 ± 1.1% of NK cells showed increased degranulation. In RT-CES system, adherent NIH3T3 target cells were resistant to basal killing by PBMC or NK cells. NK cell activation by adding IL-2 demonstrated real-time dynamic killing activity, and lymphokine-activated PBMC (E/T ratio of 32) from 15 individuals showed 59.1 ± 6.2% cytotoxicity results after 4 hours incubation in RT-CES system. However, there was no significant correlation between FCA and RT-CES cytotoxicity. After K562 target cell stimulation, PBMC produced profound proinflammatory and immunoregulatory cytokines/chemokines including IL-2, IL-8, IL-10, MIP-1αβ, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, and cytokine/chemokine secretion was related to flowcytometry-based NK cytotoxicity. These data suggest that RT-CES and FCA differ in sensitivity, applicability and providing information, and further investigations are necessary in variable clinical conditions.
Diabetic Foot: Surgical Approach in Emergency
Authors: Setacci C. , Sirignano P. , Mazzitelli G. , Setacci F. , Messina G. , Galzerano G. , de Donato G.
Published: October 2013

Introduction. Critical limb lschemia (CLI) and particularly diabetic foot (DF) are still considered “Cinderella” in our departments. Anyway, the presence of arterial obstructive disease increases the risk of amputation by itself; when it is associated with foot infection, the risk of amputation is greatly increased.Methods. From January 2007 to December 2011, 375 patients with DF infection and CLI have been admitted to our Unit; from 2007 to 2009, 192 patients (Group A) underwent surgical debridement of the lesion followed by a delayed revascularization; from 2010 to 2011, 183 patients (Group B) were treated following a new 4-step protocol: (1) early diagnosis with a 24 h on call DF team; (2) urgent treatment of severe foot infection with an aggressive surgical debridement; (3) early revascularization within 24 hours; (4) definitive treatment: wound healing, reconstructive surgery, and orthesis. We reported rates of mortality, major amputation, and foot healing at 6 months of followup.Results. The majority of patients in both groups were male; no statistical differences in medical history and clinical condition were reported at the baseline. The main difference between the two groups was the mean time from debridement to revascularization (3 days in Group A and 24 hours in Group B). After 6 months of follow-up, mortality was 11% in Group A versus 4.4% in Group B. Major amputation rate was 39.6% and 24.6% in Groups A and B, respectively. Wound healing was achieved in 17.8% in Group A and 20.8% in Group B.Conclusions. This protocol requires a lot of professional skills that should to reach the goal to avoid major amputations in patients with DF. Only an interdisciplinary integrated DF team and an early intervention may significantly impact the outcome of our patients: “Time is Tissue”!
Formation of Porous Structure with Subspot Size under the Irradiation of Picosecond Laser Pulses
Authors: Liu Bin , Wang Wenjun , Jiang Gedong , Mei Xuesong , Wang Kedian , Wang Jiuhong
Published: October 2013

A study was presented in this paper on porous structure with microsize holes significantly smaller than laser spot on the stainless steel 304 target surface induced by a picosecond Nd:van regenerative amplified laser, operating at 1064 nm. The target surface variations were studied in air ambience. The estimated surface damage threshold was 0.15 J/cm2. The target specific surface changes and phenomena observed supported a complementary study on the formation and growth of the subspot size pit holes on metal surface with dependence of laser pulse number of 50–1000 and fluences of 0.8 and 1.6 J/cm2. Two kinds of porous structures were presented: periodic holes are formed from Coulomb Explosion during locally spatial modulated ablation, and random holes are formed from the burst of bubbles in overheated liquid during phase explosion. It can be concluded that it is effective to fabricate a large metal surface area of porous structure by laser scanning regime. Generally, it is also difficult for ultrashort laser to fabricate the microporous structures compared with traditional methods. These porous structures potentially have a number of important applications in nanotechnology, industry, nuclear complex, and so forth.
Nonlinear Robust Control of a Hypersonic Flight Vehicle Using Fuzzy Disturbance Observer
Authors: Zhengdong Lei , Man Wang , Jianying Yang
Published: October 2013

This paper is concerned with a novel tracking controller design for a hypersonic flight vehicle in complex and volatile environment. The attitude control model is challengingly constructed with multivariate uncertainties and external disturbances, such as structure dynamic and stochastic wind disturbance. In order to resist the influence of uncertainties and disturbances on the flight control system, nonlinear disturbance observer is introduced to estimate them. Moreover, for the sake of high accuracy and sensitivity, fuzzy theory is adopted to improve the performance of the nonlinear disturbance observer. After the total disturbance is eliminated by dynamic inversion method, a cascade system is obtained and then stabilized by a sliding-mode controller. Finally, simulation results show that the strong robust controller achieves excellent performance when the closed-loop control system is influenced by mass uncertainties and external disturbances.
The Benefits and Risks of Consuming Brewed Tea: Beware of Toxic Element Contamination
Authors: Schwalfenberg Gerry , Genuis Stephen J. , Rodushkin Ilia
Published: October 2013

Background. Increasing concern is evident about contamination of foodstuffs and natural health products.Methods. Common off-the-shelf varieties of black, green, white, and oolong teas sold in tea bags were used for analysis in this study. Toxic element testing was performed on 30 different teas by analyzing (i) tea leaves, (ii) tea steeped for 3-4 minutes, and (iii) tea steeped for 15–17 minutes. Results were compared to existing preferred endpoints.Results. All brewed teas contained lead with 73% of teas brewed for 3 minutes and 83% brewed for 15 minutes having lead levels considered unsafe for consumption during pregnancy and lactation. Aluminum levels were above recommended guidelines in 20% of brewed teas. No mercury was found at detectable levels in any brewed tea samples. Teas contained several beneficial elements such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus. Of trace minerals, only manganese levels were found to be excessive in some black teas.Conclusions. Toxic contamination by heavy metals was found in most of the teas sampled. Some tea samples are considered unsafe. There are no existing guidelines for routine testing or reporting of toxicant levels in “naturally” occurring products. Public health warnings or industry regulation might be indicated to protect consumer safety.
Robustness Measure of China’s Railway Network Topology Using Relative Entropy
Authors: Feng Fenling , Wang Lei
Published: October 2013

This study focused on China’s railway network topology issue from a robustness measure perspective. Relative entropy is used in the study as a measurement of robustness of railway network topology. It is found that the entropy-based measure provides more informative analyses compared to a traditional graph measure. The results indicate that the railway network in the 12th five-year plan has improved robustness when compare to 2008 with respect to deliberate and random attacks.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Procyanidins from Wild Grape (Vitis amurensis) Seeds in LPS-Induced RAW 264.7 Cells
Authors: Bak Min-Ji , Truong Van Long , Kang Hey-Sook , Jun Mira , Jeong Woo-Sik
Published: October 2013

In the present study, the anti-inflammatory effect and underlying mechanisms of wild grape seeds procyanidins (WGP) were examined using lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. We used nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2(PGE2) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) assays to examine inhibitory effect of WGP and further investigated the mechanisms of WGP suppressed LPS-mediated genes and upstream expression by Western blot and confocal microscopy analysis. Our data indicate that WGP significantly reduced NO, PGE2, and ROS production and also inhibited the expression of proinflammatory mediators such as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) protein expressions. Consistently, WGP significantly reduced LPS-stimulated expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factorα(TNF-α) and interleukin- (IL-) 1β. Moreover, WGP prevented nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) p65 subunit by reducing inhibitoryκB-α(IκBα) and NFκB phosphorylation. Furthermore, we found that WGP inhibited LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). Taken together, our results demonstrated that WGP exerts potent anti-inflammatory activity through the inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 by regulating NFκB and p38 MAPK pathway.
The Diagnostic Value of Transcription Factors T-bet/GATA3 Ratio in Predicting Antibody-Mediated Rejection
Authors: Li Xue , Sun Qiquan , Zhang Mingchao , Chen Jinsong , Liu Zhihong
Published: October 2013

Background. Previous data showed that the predominance of intraglomerular T-bet or GATA3 is correlated with different mechanisms of rejection, suggesting that the ratio of T-bet/GATA3 might be used to distinguish antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) and T-cell-mediated rejection (TCMR).Methods. We compared the intraglomerular T-bet/GATA3 ratio in ABMR and TCMR. The intragraft expression of T-bet and GATA3 was studied via immunohistochemistry. The correlation of the diagnosis of AMR with the ratio of T-bet/GATA3 was examined.Results. Both intraglomerular T-bet- and GATA3-expressing cells were increased during acute rejection. T-bet/GATA3>1 was strongly correlated with ABMR (93.3% versus 18.2%). The incidence of positive HLA-I/II antibodies and glomerulitis is significantly higher in T-bet/GATA3>1 group (P<0.001,0.013, resp.). The scores of peritubular capillary inflammation and glomerulitis were also higher in T-bet/GATA3>1 group (P=0.052,P<0.001, resp.). Nevertheless, T-bet/GATA3>1 is also correlated with C4d-negative ABMR and resistance to steroid treatment. Compared with C4d deposition, T-bet/GATA3>1 had a slight lower (90% versus 100%) specificity but a much higher (87.5% versus 68.8%) sensitivity.Conclusion. Our data suggested that intraglomerular predominance of T-bet over GATA3 might be used as diagnosis maker of ABMR in addition to C4d, especially in C4d-negative cases.
Artificial Neural Network Analysis of Sierpinski Gasket Fractal Antenna: A Low Cost Alternative to Experimentation
Authors: Dhaliwal Balwinder S. , Pattnaik Shyam S.
Published: October 2013

Artificial neural networks due to their general-purpose nature are used to solve problems in diverse fields. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) are very useful for fractal antenna analysis as the development of mathematical models of such antennas is very difficult due to complex shapes and geometries. As such empirical approach doing experiments is costly and time consuming, in this paper, application of artificial neural networks analysis is presented taking the Sierpinski gasket fractal antenna as an example. The performance of three different types of networks is evaluated and the best network for this type of applications has been proposed. The comparison of ANN results with experimental results validates that this technique is an alternative to experimental analysis. This low cost method of antenna analysis will be very useful to understand various aspects of fractal antennas.
Management of Nonpregnant Women with Elevated Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Authors: Schmid Bernd C. , Reilly Aimee , Oehler Martin K.
Published: October 2013

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is useful in evaluating and monitoring early pregnancy as well as trophoblastic disease. Here we describe the management of women with elevated serum human chorionic gonadotropin in a case of a 51-year-old female who was unsuccessfully treated for ectopic pregnancy. She was subsequently diagnosed with pituitary hCG production, which should be considered as differential diagnosis before treatment is initiated.
Synthesis and Application of a Novel Polyamide Charring Agent for Halogen-Free Flame Retardant Polypropylene
Authors: Liu Jie , Xu Jiayou , Li Kaidan , Chen Yongheng
Published: October 2013

A novel charring agent, poly(p-ethylene terephthalamide) (PETA), for halogen-free flame retardant polypropylene was synthesized by using p-phthaloyl chloride (TPC) and ethylenediamine through solution polycondensation at low temperature, and the effects of PETA on flame retardance of polypropylene (PP)/IFR systems were studied. The experimental results showed that PETA could considerably enhance the fire retardant performance as proved by evidence of the increase of limiting oxygen index (LOI) values, the results of UL-94 tests, and cone calorimeter tests (CCT). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) demonstrated that an appropriate amount of PETA could react with PP/IFR system to form cross-link network; a more compact char layer could be formed which was responsible for the improved thermal and flame retardant properties of PP/IFR systems. However, the superfluous amount of PETA would play the negative role.
Acute Oral Toxicity and Kinetic Behaviors of Inorganic Layered Nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Jin , Chung Hea-Eun , Choi Soo-Jin
Published: October 2013

Layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanoparticles, also known as anionic clays, have attracted a great deal of interest for their potential as delivery carriers. Recent studies showed that LDH nanoparticles can efficiently deliver drugs or bioactive molecules into cells, which are highly related to their endocytic pathway. However, the efficient cell permeation capacity of LDH may also raise concern about their toxicity potential. In this study, the acute oral toxicity of LDH nanoparticles was assessed, and their kinetic behaviors, such as plasma concentration‐time curve, tissue distribution, and excretion, were also evaluated in mice. No significant effects of oral LDH nanoparticles on behaviors, body weight gain, survival rate, and organosomatic index were observed up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg for 14 days. Serum biochemical parameters did not significantly increase, indicating that LDH nanoparticles did not cause acute liver or kidney injury. Plasma concentration of LDH nanoparticles rapidly decreased within 30 min depending on exposure doses, but they did not accumulate in any specific organ. Their excretion via urine and feces was observed within 24 h. These findings suggest that LDH nanoparticles do not exhibit acute oral toxicity and favorable kinetic behaviors in mice and, therefore, will be promising candidates for biological and pharmaceutical applications.
The Abundance and Diversity of Soil Fungi in Continuously Monocropped Chrysanthemum
Authors: Song Aiping , Zhao Shuang , Chen Sisi , Jiang Jiafu , Chen Sumei , Li Huiyun , Chen Yu , Chen Xi , Fang Weimin , Chen Fadi
Published: October 2013

Chrysanthemum is an important ornamental plant which is increasingly being monocropped. Monocropping is known to affect both fungal abundance and species diversity. Here, quantitative PCR allied with DGGE analysis was used to show that fungi were more abundant in the rhizosphere than in the bulk soil and that the fungal populations changed during the growth cycle of the chrysanthemum. The majority of amplified fragments appeared to derive from Fusarium species, and F. oxysporum and F. solani proved to be the major pathogenic species which are built up by monocropping.
Diamondoid Hydrocarbons as Maturity Indicators for Condensates from Southern Indus Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Nasir Shagufta , Fazeelat Tahira
Published: October 2013

Diamondoid hydrocarbons have been examined in condensates reservoired in the Southern Indus Basin using GC‐MS. Bulk properties reveal that samples are waxy and low sulfur with the exception of Pakhro and Gopang which are nonwaxy. TIC show bimodal distribution of n‐alkanes along with high abundance of C20+ n‐alkanes indicating substantial contribution of terrigeneous OM in these samples. CPI close to one is consistent with mature nature of oils. The samples show two ranges of Pr/Ph ratios. Those within the range of 2.2–2.7 reflect marine depositional settings for OM while others with Pr/Ph >3 may have originated from terrestrial OM deposited under marine oxic conditions. The cross plot of Pr/n‐C17 versus Ph/n‐C18 indicate type III kerogen as main source of OM deposited under marine to marine oxic conditions. The values of diamondoid based maturity parameters, like methyladamantane index 54.1–75.8% and methyldiamantane index 34.9–56.3% indicate high level of thermal maturity corresponding to vitrinite reflectance 1.1–1.6%. No biodegradation is observed in any of these samples as shown by methyladamantanes/adamantane 3.99–5.52 and methyldiamantanes/diamantane 2.16–2.99 and supported by high values of API gravity (45.13°–60.02°) and absence of UCM.
Optical and Structural Investigation of CdSe Quantum Dots Dispersed in PVA Matrix and Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Phukan Pallabi , Saikia Dulen
Published: October 2013

CdSe quantum dots (QDs) dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix with their sizes within the quantum dot regime have been synthesized via a simple heat induced thermolysis technique. The effect of the concentrations of the cadmium source on the optical properties of CdSe/PVA thin films was investigated through UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The structural analysis and particle size determination as well as morphological studies of the CdSe/PVA nanocomposite thin films were done with the help of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD analysis reveals that CdSe/PVA nanocomposite thin film has a hexagonal (wurtzite) structure. A prototype thin film solar cell of CdSe/CdTe has been synthesized and its photovoltaic parameters were measured.
Production, Control, and Visual Guidance of Saccadic Eye Movements
Authors: Schall Jeffrey D.
Published: October 2013

Primate vision is served by rapid shifts of gaze called saccades. This review will survey current knowledge and particular problems concerning the neural control and guidance of gaze shifts.
Soil-Landscape Modeling and Remote Sensing to Provide Spatial Representation of Soil Attributes for an Ethiopian Watershed
Authors: Mehammednur Seid Nurhussen , Yitaferu Birru , Kibret Kibebew , Ziadat Feras
Published: October 2013

Information about the spatial distribution of soil properties is necessary for natural resources modeling; however, the cost of soil surveys limits the development of high-resolution soil maps. The objective of this study was to provide an approach for predicting soil attributes. Topographic attributes and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) were used to provide information about the spatial distribution of soil properties using clustering and statistical techniques for the 56 km2Gumara-Maksegnit watershed in Ethiopia. Multiple linear regression models implemented within classified subwatersheds explained 6–85% of the variations in soil depth, texture, organic matter, bulk density, pH, total nitrogen, available phosphorous, and stone content. The prediction model was favorably comparable with the interpolation using the inverse distance weighted algorithm. The use of satellite images improved the prediction. The soil depth prediction accuracy dropped gradually from 98% when 180 field observations were used to 65% using only 25 field observations. Soil attributes were predicted with acceptable accuracy even with a low density of observations (1-2 observations/2 km2). This is because the model utilizes topographic and satellite data to support the statistical prediction of soil properties between two observations. Hence, the use of DEM and remote sensing with minimum field data provides an alternative source of spatially continuous soil attributes.
Acupuncture Deqi Intensity and Propagated Sensation along Channels May, Respectively, Differ due to Different Body Positions of Subjects
Authors: Chen Xiang-Zhu , Yang Yun-Kuan , Yang Jie , Yang Ming-Xiao , Feng Shu-Wei , Hu Xiao-Juan , Luo Xiao , Feng Yue , Liang Fan-Rong
Published: October 2013

Acupuncture as an essential component of complementary and alternative medicine is gradually recognized and accepted by the mainstream of contemporary medicine. For obtaining preferable clinical effectiveness, Deqi is commonly regarded as efficacy predictor and parameter which is necessary to be achieved. Influential factors for acupuncture efficacy, like Deqi sensation as well as propagated sensation along channels (PSCs), enjoyed a long history in acupuncture basic research. Concerning this study, taking into account different positions on acupuncture Deqi sensation and PSCs, we would like to attest whether different body positions for subjects during needling procedure yield differed acupuncture Deqi sensation, particularly in terms of intensity, and PSCs.Methods. We used self-controlled method and selected 30 healthy subjects to perform needle insertion at Futu point (ST32) bilaterally. Then they were instructed to record the value of intensity of acupuncture sensation and the length and width of PSCs after removing the needle.Results. In regard to intensity of Deqi, kneeling seat position is stronger than supine position, accounting for 90% of the total number of subjects. In length of PSCs, kneeling seat position is greater than supine position, accounting for 56.7%. In width of PSCs, kneeling seat position is greater than supine position, accounting for 66.7%.Conclusion. Our findings show that needle inserting at Futu point (ST32) in kneeling seat position achieve better needle sensation and provide reference for clinical.
Genes Upregulated in Prostate Cancer Reactive Stroma Promote Prostate Cancer Progression In Vivo
Authors: Dakhova Olga , Rowley David , Ittmann Michael
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Marked reactive stroma formation is associated with poor outcome in clinically localized prostate cancer. We have previously identified genes with diverse functions that are upregulated in reactive stroma. This study tests the hypothesis that expression of these genes in stromal cells enhances prostate cancer growth in vivo.

Experimental Design: The expression of reactive stroma genes in prostate stromal cell lines was evaluated by reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR and qRT-PCR. Genes were knocked down using stable expression of short-hairpin RNAs (shRNA) and the impact on tumorigenesis assessed using the differential reactive stroma (DRS) system, in which prostate stromal cell lines are mixed with LNCaP prostate cancer cells and growth as subcutaneous xenografts assessed.

Results: Nine of 10 reactive stroma genes tested were expressed in one or more prostate stromal cell lines. Gene knockdown of c-Kit, Wnt10B, Bmi1, Gli2, or COMP all resulted in decreased tumorigenesis in the DRS model. In all tumors analyzed, angiogenesis was decreased and there were variable effects on proliferation and apoptosis in the LNCaP cells. Wnt10B has been associated with stem/progenitor cell phenotype in other tissue types. Using a RT-PCR array, we detected downregulation of multiple genes involved in stem/progenitor cell biology such as OCT4 and LIF as well as cytokines such as VEGFA, BDNF, and CSF2 in cells with Wnt10B knockdown.

Conclusions: These findings show that genes upregulated in prostate cancer–reactive stroma promote progression when expressed in prostate stromal cells. Moreover, these data indicate that the DRS model recapitulates key aspects of cancer cell/reactive stroma interactions in prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(1); 100–9. ©2013 AACR.
Altered Microenvironment Promotes Progression of Preinvasive Breast Cancer: Myoepithelial Expression of αvβ6 Integrin in DCIS Identifies High-risk Patients and Predicts Recurrence
Authors: Allen Michael D. , Thomas Gareth J. , Clark Sarah , Dawoud Marwa M. , Vallath Sabarinath , Payne Sarah J. , Gomm Jennifer J. , Dreger Sally A. , Dickinson Sarah , Edwards Dylan R. , Pennington Caroline J. , Sestak Ivana , Cuzick Jack , Marshall John F. , Hart Ian R. , Jones J. Louise
Published: October 2013

Purpose: This study investigated the functional and clinical significance of integrin αvβ6 upregulation in myoepithelial cells of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Experimental Design: Archival samples of DCIS and DCIS with associated invasion (n = 532) were analyzed for expression of αvβ6 by immunohistochemistry and ability to predict recurrence and progression assessed in an independent, unique cohort of DCIS cases with long-term follow-up. Primary myoepithelial cells and myoepithelial cell lines, with and without αvβ6 expression, were used to measure the effect of αvβ6 on growth and invasion of tumor cell lines in vitro and in a xenograft mouse model. Involvement of TGFβ signaling was established using mink lung epithelial cell (MLEC) assay and antibody inhibition, and expression and activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 established by Real Time-PCR and zymography.

Results: Expression of αvβ6 is significantly associated with progression to invasive cancer (P < 0.006) and with recurrence over a median follow-up of 114 months in a series of matched DCIS cases treated with local excision. We show that expression of αvβ6 drives myoepithelial cells to promote tumor cell invasion in vitro and enhances mammary tumor growth in vivo. The tumor-promoting effect of αvβ6-positive myoepithelial cells is dependent on TGFβ-driven upregulation of MMP9 and can be abrogated by inhibiting this pathway.

Conclusion: These findings indicate that altered myoepithelial cells in DCIS predict disease progression and recurrence and show that upregulation of αvβ6 on myoepithelial cells generates a tumor promoter function through TGFβ upregulation of MMP-9. These data suggest that expression of αvβ6 may be used to stratify patients with DCIS. Clin Cancer Res; 20(2); 344–57. ©2013 AACR.
Effects of Molsidomine against Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Disli O.M. , Sarihan E. , Colak M.C. , Vardi N. , Polat A. , Yagmur J. , Tamtekin B. , Parlakpinar H.
Published: October 2013

Purpose: To explore the protective and curative effects of molsidomine (MOL) on doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiac damage in the in vivo rat heart. Methods: Forty rats were randomized into five groups (n = 8): (1) the control group; (2) the MOL group (10 mg/kg for 21 days); (3) the DOX group (a single dose of 20 mg/kg); (4) the DOX + MOL group (3 days after the single dose of DOX, 10 mg/kg MOL continued for 21 days), and (5) the MOL + DOX group (24 h after a 21-day regimen of 10 mg/kg MOL, a single dose of DOX). The rats were monitored for mean arterial blood pressure, heart rate, O2 saturation, and electrocardiography. Heart tissue levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO) were determined. Results: Blood pressure and O2 saturation values indicated a significant decrease in the DOX group compared with the control group. T negativity was observed in 4 of 8 rats in the DOX group, in 1 of 8 rats in the DOX + MOL group, and in 4 of 8 rats in the MOL + DOX group. MDA levels were significantly higher in the DOX group. SOD, GSH, and NO levels were significantly lower in the DOX group compared with the other groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the CAT levels in any of the study groups compared with controls. DOX treatment induced morphological alterations, such as disorganization of cardiomyocytes, loss of myofibrils, and cytoplasmic vacuolization in the heart. On the other hand, histological damage was significantly reduced in the DOX + MOL and MOL + DOX groups. Conclusion: This study implies that there are cardioprotective effects of MOL on DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.