bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton‐dependent zinc release from intracellular ligands
Authors: Kiedrowski Lech
Published: March 2014

In cultured cortical and hippocampal neurons when intracellular pH drops from 6.6 to 6.1, yet unclear intracellular stores release micromolar amounts of Zn2+ into the cytosol. Mitochondria, acidic organelles, and/or intracellular ligands could release this Zn2+. Although exposure to the protonophore FCCP precludes reloading of the mitochondria and acidic organelles with Zn2+, FCCP failed to compromise the ability of the intracellular stores to repeatedly release Zn2+. Therefore, Zn2+‐releasing stores were not mitochondria or acidic organelles but rather intracellular Zn2+ ligands. To test which ligands might be involved, the rate of acid‐induced Zn2+ release from complexes with cysteine, glutathione, histidine, aspartate, glutamate, glycine, and carnosine was investigated; [Zn2+] was monitored in vitro using the ratiometric Zn2+‐sensitive fluorescent probe FuraZin‐1. Carnosine failed to chelate Zn2+ but did chelate Cu2+; the remaining ligands chelated Zn2+ and upon acidification were releasing it into the medium. However, when pH was decreasing from 6.6 to 6.1, only zinc–cysteine complexes rapidly accelerated the rate of Zn2+ release. The zinc–cysteine complexes also released Zn2+ when a histidine‐modifying agent, diethylpyrocarbonate, was applied at pH 7.2. Since the cytosolic zinc–cysteine complexes can contain micromolar amounts of Zn2+, these complexes may represent the stores responsible for an acid‐induced intracellular Zn2+ release.

image

This study aimed at identifying intracellular stores which release Zn2+ when pHi drops from 6.6 to 6.1. It was found that these stores are not mitochondria or acidic organelles, but rather intracellular Zn2+ ligands. When the pH was decreasing from 6.6 to 6.1, only zinc–cysteine complexes showed a rapid acceleration in the rate of Zn2+ release. Therefore, the stores responsible for an acid‐induced intracellular Zn2+ release in neurons may be the cytosolic zinc–cysteine complexes.
Reducing the Carbon Footprint within Fast‐Moving Consumer Goods Supply Chains through Collaboration: The Manufacturers' Perspective
Authors: Theißen Sebastian , Spinler Stefan , Huchzermeier Arnd
Published: March 2014

Within the sustainability arena, CO2 reduction has emerged as a key challenge for manufacturers in the fast‐moving consumer goods industry. This goal needs to be balanced against the competitive priorities of cost and responsiveness. Emissions‐reducing efforts are driven by the need to comply with expectations from industry and end customers and by opportunities for energy and cost savings. Manufacturers are now looking beyond their corporate boundaries to find new ways to reduce emissions along the supply chain. There is a need for research to address supplier selection in the face of sustainability challenges and provide insights about the factors affecting the transfer of sustainability skills between the manufacturer and its suppliers. This multiple case study investigates the factors that influence an organization's readiness to engage in a collaborative CO2 reduction management (CCRM) approach. We find that partner selection for CCRM exhibits path dependency in terms of the manufacturer's maturity level of sustainability; characteristics of key downstream customers, in turn, are shown to also impact this selection.
National Trends in the Treatment of Penile Prosthesis Infections by Explantation Alone vs. Immediate Salvage and Reimplantation
Authors: Zargaroff Sherwin , Sharma Vidit , Berhanu Daniel , Pearl Jeff A. , Meeks Joshua J. , Dupree James M. , Le Brian V. , Cashy John , McVary Kevin T.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

A penile prosthesis infection (PPI) is either treated with explantation of the prosthesis with a possible delayed reimplantation or a salvage procedure with an immediate reimplantation of the prosthesis.

Aim

We used a large, all-payer national database to investigate the use of the salvage procedure in the setting of PPI.

Methods

The study used years 2000–2009 of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to identify PPIs treated with immediate salvage or explantation alone. Admissions were then stratified by various parameters to compare differences in the salvage rates.

Main Outcome Measures

Salvage Rate of Penile Prosthesis infection.

Results

A total of 1,557 patients were treated with an explantation only (82.7%) or salvage (17.3%) for PPI, a proportion that remained stable over the study period. The patients treated with salvage were younger (60.4 vs. 65.1 years), more likely to be discharged home (87.3% vs. 61.9%), and were less likely to have a severe presentation (7.2% vs. 31.6%) than those who were explanted only (P < 0.001). These factors were confirmed on multivariate regression analysis. The regression also revealed that treatment at rural hospitals had lower odds of salvage than treatment at urban teaching hospitals. Race, comorbid diabetes, and insurance status did not independently affect the salvage rate. There was no significant difference in total hospital charges between groups.

Conclusions

Salvage rates have remained low over the past decade. Our study elucidated several factors decreasing the chances of salvage after PPI including age, severity of presentation, and hospital setting.
Use of hepatitis B surface and “e” antigen quantification during extensive treatment with tenofovir in patients co‐infected with HIV‐HBV
Authors: Boyd Anders , Maylin Sarah , Gozlan Joël , Delaugerre Constance , Simon François , Girard Pierre‐Marie , Lacombe Karine
Published: March 2014

Background & Aims

In patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HIV, hepatitis B ‘e’ antigen (qHBeAg) and hepatitis B surface antigen quantification (qHBsAg) may be used to predict short‐term HBeAg and HBsAg loss, respectively. To determine if these quantifiable markers also provide accurate prediction of antigen loss during long‐term, extensive tenofovir (TDF) treatment and to further establish qHBsAg profiles associated with HBsAg seroconversion.

Methods

Prospective study of 111 co‐infected, antiretroviral‐experienced patients undergoing a TDF‐containing regimen for >12 months. HBV‐DNA viral load, qHBeAg [Paul Ehrlich Institute Units (PEIU)/ml] and qHBsAg were quantified at baseline and every 6–12 months. Sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of qHBeAg criteria were calculated using a time‐dependent receiver operator characteristic curve, and qHBsAg profiles were developed using a group‐based trajectory model.

Results

After a median 74.2 months (IQR: 33.1–94.7) of TDF treatment, four patients had HBsAg seroconversion. Among the 78 (70.3%) HBeAg‐positive patients, cumulative proportion with HBeAg loss was 42.0% (n = 23) at month 96. Baseline qHBeAg ≤100 PEIU/ml was the only significant factor for HBeAg loss (adjusted‐HR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.02–5.46) in multivariable analysis. In terms of predicting HBeAg‐loss until month 96, qHBeAg ≤10 PEIU/ml was more accurate when evaluated at month 24 (Se = 0.73, Sp = 0.80) than month 12 (Se = 0.48, Sp = 0.90). All four patients with HBsAg seroconversion had profiles with large decreases in qHBsAg (>2 log10 IU/ml), not necessarily occurring during the first 12 months, which was infrequent in patients without seroconversion (8.4%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Quantifying hepatitis ‘e’ antigen during the first 2 years of TDF treatment is a practical tool in predicting long‐term HBeAg loss. Non time‐specific declines in qHBsAg may be a useful indicator of HBsAg seroconversion.
Isolation and characterisation of the fungusSpiromastix asexualissp. nov. from discospondylitis in aGermanShepherd dog, and review ofSpiromastixwith the proposal of the new orderSpiromastixales (Ascomycota)
Authors: Rizzo L. , Sutton D. A. , Wiederhold N. P. , Thompson E. H. , Friedman R. , Wickes B. L. , Cano‐Lira J. F. , Stchigel A. M. , Guarro J.
Published: March 2014

The genusSpiromastixconsists of several fungal species that have been isolated from soil and animal dung in various parts of the world. However, these species are considered to be of low pathogenic potential, as no cases of infections caused by these fungi have been reported. Here, we describe the clinical course of discospondylitis in a dog from which a fungus was cultured from a biopsy and identified as aSpiromastixspecies by morphologic characteristics and sequencing. Phylogenetic analysis determined this to be a new species,Spiromastix asexualis, which is described, and a new order,Spiromastixales, is proposed.
Cognitive analytic therapy: A review of the outcome evidence base for treatment
Authors: Calvert Rachel , Kellett Stephen
Published: March 2014

Purpose

This study reviews the quality of the extant outcome evidence for cognitive analytic therapy (CAT) to inform clinical practice and to stimulate a future CAT research strategy.

Method

An electronic search identified CAT efficacy and effectiveness studies and these were subject to systematic review. The methodological quality of studies meeting inclusion criteria were appraised using two validated research study quality checklists and studies were fitted to an established model of psychotherapy evaluation.

Results

Twenty‐five outcome studies met the inclusion criteria, including five randomized controlled trials. The CAT evidence base is predominated by small‐scale practice‐based studies, in typically complex and severe clinical populations – 44% were focal to the treatment of personality disorder. Although the quality of extant CAT evidence is generally sound (52% of studies were high quality), the depth and breadth of the evidence base is currently limited. Where comparisons with other modalities are available, CAT appears largely equivocal.

Conclusions

Cognitive analytic therapy is a popular and promising intervention for complex presentations. However, the evidence base currently lacks wider credibility due to having largely bypassed the rigours of the controlled phase of the hourglass model of psychotherapy evaluation. There is a particular need for further CAT outcome research with common mental health problems.

Practitioner points

CAT can be an effective intervention across a range of mental health difficulties.

Consider a 24‐session CAT contract for those patients presenting with complex and severe difficulties.

Practice research networks could make a significant contribution to the CAT evidence base.
Association of leptin/receptor and TNF‐α gene variants with adolescent obesity in Malaysia
Authors: Ng Zoe Yi , Veerapen Muthu Kumar , Hon Wei Min , Lim Renee Lay Hong
Published: March 2014

Background

Leptin (LEP) G‐2548A (rs7799039), leptin receptor (LEPR) Q223R (rs1137101) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α G‐308A (rs1800629) gene variants have been reported to be associated with obesity, although results for subjects from different countries have been controversial. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Malaysian adolescents and the association of these polymorphisms with overweight and obese or over‐fat adolescents.

Methods

A total of 613 adolescents (241 Malay, 219 Chinese, 153 Indian) were enrolled. Anthropometric measurements of body mass index (BMI) and body fat percentage were used to classify subjects as controls (non‐overweight/obese or normal fat) or as cases (overweight/obese or over‐fat). Genomic DNA was extracted from oral buccal mucosa cells for genotyping using polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism and data obtained were statistically analyzed.

Results

A total of 23.3% of subjects were overweight/obese whereas 11.4% were over‐fat; there were significantly more overweight/obese and over‐fat Indian and Malay adolescents compared to Chinese (P < 0.001). A allele was the minor one for LEPR Q223R and TNF‐α G‐308A in all ethnic groups, whereas G allele was minor for LEP G‐2548A in Chinese and Malay adolescents, except for Indian adolescents. Indian male adolescents with AA genotype for LEP G‐2548A were associated with overweight/obesity (P = 0.025; odds ratio, 3.64; 95% confidence interval: 1.15–11.54). Despite the lack of association observed for LEPR Q223R and TNF‐α G‐308A, Indian and Chinese subjects with AA risk genotype for LEPR Q223R/LEP G‐2548A and TNF‐α G‐308A/LEP G‐2548A, respectively, had increased mean BMI (P = 0.049, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

Genotype distribution and association of these polymorphisms with overweight/obesity vary between ethnic groups and genders. Nevertheless, the LEP G‐2548A risk allele may be associated with overweight/obese Indian male adolescents in Malaysia.
Shūrà and Democracy: Two Sides of the Same Coin?
Authors: Soage Ana Belén
Published: March 2014

Since the beginning of the modern period – usually called the Renaissance (Nahda in Arabic) – prominent pre‐Islamists and Islamists such as Jamāl al‐Dīn al‐Afghānī, Rashīd Ridā and Yūsuf al‐Qaradāwī have condemned the political oppression that prevails in much of the Muslim world and attributed its backwardness to that oppression. For many of those authors, the solution is the implementation of the old Arab institution of consultation (shūrà), which is mentioned in the Koran and has been associated with the Western parliamentary system. But were those Islamist authors just trying to encourage the adoption of Western‐style democracy in Muslim lands by painting it with the brush of Islam? Can we really conceive shūrà as a form of democracy? And what about those who espouse shūrà but reject democracy? The present paper looks at that institution in its historical context and offers the opinion of several renowned contemporary Islamist thinkers on its prospects.
Benefits of sulfamethoxazole‐trimethoprim prophylaxis on rates of sepsis after kidney transplant
Authors: Horwedel T.A. , Bowman L.J. , Saab G. , Brennan D.C.
Published: March 2014

Background

The use of potent immunosuppression increases the risk of infectious complications following kidney transplantation. Sulfamethoxazole‐trimethoprim (SMX/TMP) is an inexpensive broad‐spectrum antimicrobial agent used in our center as lifelong prophylaxis against Pneumocystis jirovecii, unless contraindicated. This study evaluated the clinical impact of SMX/TMP prophylaxis compared with no prophylaxis with SMX/TMP (NoPPx), but with alternative agents.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort analysis of renal transplant recipients (RTR) transplanted from January 2002 through December 2010. Patients were divided into SMX/TMP group and NoPPX group, based on whether they received prophylaxis with SMX/TMP or not, and rates of sepsis were compared between groups. We also analyzed the pathogens and source implicated in these episodes, as well as the dose of SMX/TMP. Rates were compared using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

With a mean follow‐up of 4.8 (± 2.5) years, 63 cases of sepsis occurred in 1224 patients (5.1%), and 60% of these cases had a urinary source. The risk of sepsis was significantly reduced with prophylaxis vs. NoPPx (13.3% vs. 4.3% for SMX/TMP, P < 0.001), and this association was maintained through multivariate regression. Sepsis was associated with a numerically increased risk of graft loss and death that was not significantly affected by use of SMX/TMP.

Conclusions

Prophylaxis with SMX/TMP is an inexpensive way to reduce the incidence of sepsis in RTR.
Hypothesis On The Source, Transmission and Characteristics of Infection of Avian Influenza A (H7N9) Virus – Based On Analysis of Field Epidemiological Investigation and Gene Sequence Analysis
Authors: Ling F. , Chen E. , Liu Q. , Miao Z. , Gong Z.
Published: March 2014

On 31 March 2013, the National Health and Family Planning Commission announced that human infections with influenza A (H7N9) virus had occurred in Shanghai and Anhui provinces, China. H7N9 cases were later detected in Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. It was estimated that the virus first spread northward along the route taken by migratory birds and then spread to neighbouring provinces with the sale of poultry. Epidemiological studies were carried out on samples from the external environment of infected cases, transmission routes, farmers markets and live poultry markets. Phylogenetic study of viral sequences from human and avian infections in Zhejiang showed that those from Shanghai and Jiangsu provinces along Taihu Lake were highly homologous with those from the external environment. This suggests that avian viruses carried by waterfowl combined with the virus carried by migratory birds, giving rise to avian influenza virus H7N9, which is highly pathogenic to humans. It is possible that the virus was transmitted by local wildfowl to domestic poultry and then to humans, or spread further by means of trading in wholesale poultry markets. As the weather has turned warm, and with measures adopted to terminate poultry trade and facilitate health communication, the epidemic in the first half of the year has been kept under control. However, the infection source in the triangular area around Taihu Lake still remains. The H7N9 epidemic will probably hit the area later in the year and next spring when the migratory birds return and may even spread to other areas. Great importance should therefore be attached to the wildfowl in Taihu Lake as the repository and disseminator of the virus: investigation and study of this population is essential.
Teacher’s Questions in Laboratory and Theory Chemistry Lessons
Authors: Siew Li Winnie Sim , Yusof Arshad Mohammad
Published: March 2014

Inquiry teaching is one of the teaching approaches suggested in chemistry curriculum. This mixed-method study was used to investigate teacher’s questions in chemistry’s laboratory and theory lessons. This study also determines pattern of teaching sequence(s) during chemistry lessons. Twenty three chemistry teachers who applied inquiry teaching were involved in this study. Data were collected using an observation instrument named Observation Instrument in Inquiry Teaching through Verbal Interaction and semi-structure interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Recorded classroom observations were transcribed verbatim and analysed manually. Findings revealed that most of teacher’s questions were related to content in theory lessons. Meanwhile, in laboratory lessons, chemistry teachers emphasised almost equally both aspects; content and science process skills as required in inquiry teaching practices. In terms of pattern of teaching sequence, although IRE (initiation, response followed by evaluation) was still dominant in chemistry lessons observed, however, IR (Initiation followed by response), which supports inquiry teaching was found in this chemistry curriculum. This study showed that inquiry teaching in chemistry lessons need to be strengthened by planning it in chemistry lessons systematically in order to inculcate curiosity among the students.
Wave Power Absorption Capability of a Multi-Resonant Double Chamber Oscillating Water Column Device
Authors: Wilbert R. , Sundar V. , Sannasiraj S. A.
Published: March 2014

The reduction of the greenhouse gas emission generated through the usage of fossil fuel has become quite vital forcing us to look for alternative renewable energy sources. Among the renewable energy sources, ocean wave energy looks promising leading to worldwide involvement of researchers in the refinements of a number of the concepts. The conversion of energy available in ocean waves requires an interface device to interact with the kinetic and kinematic phenomena under the waves. These devices are known as wave energy converters (WECS). Among the available WECS oscillating water column (OWC) stands out as one of most promising concept. Though the OWC concept has emerged from laboratory model type to prototype plant, the high cost of production makes it less attractive in commercialism. This necessitates further refinement in the configuration of OWC concept to make it more attractive leading to economically competent. This can be achieved either by improving the efficiency or by integrating it with coastal protective breakwaters, viz., offshore detached breakwaters. The double chamber oscillating water is an innovative concept which can bring forth both efficiency and additional stability once it becomes an integral part of coastal breakwater. This system captures the high magnitude of dynamic pressure as the excitation force for the oscillation inside the OWC. The trajectory of flow pattern can provide additional vertical load which will enhance the stability factor of the breakwater. In this paper the wave power absorption capacity of a 1:20 scale physical model under varying regular wave characteristics is reported. In this insightful study the objective assessment over the hydrodynamic performance reveals the parametric influence over wave power absorption capacity of the device.
Burnishing Effect on Disc Brake Corrosion and Frictional Performance of Corroded Disk
Authors: Abdul Hamid M. K. , Kaulan A. M. , Abu Bakar A. R. , Wan Nik W. B.
Published: March 2014

This work examined the frictional force induced by the disc brake when the disc brake gets corroded. The corrosion process was carried out on two types of disc brake labelled disc A and disc B where both disc brakes were made from gray cast iron but having different design. Both discs were burnished with two types of friction materials labelled P-1 and P-2 before they were exposed to the open air environment to simulate the disc corrosion for a parked vehicle. The change in brake torque and friction coefficient was analyzed using a single-end brake dynamometer. The results showed that the burnishing effect of the friction material has significant effect on the formation of oxide layer. Oxide layer formed on disc burnished with friction material P-2 was more concentrated and thicker compared to the disc burnished with friction material P-1. Also, the results showed that brake torque and friction coefficient were closely dependent on the removal of the oxide layer and by the friction film on the burnished disc surface while applying the brake. Thus the composition of friction materials is critical to affect the formation of the oxide layer on the disc and consequently, the performance of the frictional force of disc brake system.
External Hard Particle Size Effect on Changes in Frictional Performance and Grit Embedment during Drag and Stop Mode Braking
Authors: Abdul Hamid M. K. , Abu Bakar A. R. , Stachowiak G. W.
Published: March 2014

The effects of silica sand of 50-180 µm, 180-355 µm and 355-500 µm on friction performance and grit embedment at brake disc and pad interface was investigated. Results showed that present of external hard particles caused higher friction coefficient due to higher number of smaller particles involved in mixing and changing the effective contact, while good friction stability was attributed to smaller grit particles and compacted wear debris. Grit embedment was greatly dependent on presence of compacted wear debris as most grits were embedded into compacted wear debris with embedment of 0.8% was observed for 50-180 µm, 2% for 180-355 µm and 3% for 355-500 µm.
An Experimental Investigation of Palm Pressed Fibre Waste as Lubricant in Strip Drawing
Authors: Hafis S. M. , Ridzuan M. J. M. , Mohamed A. R. , Farahana R. N. , Syahrullail S.
Published: March 2014

The abundance of palm pressed fibre (PPF) biomass waste generates greenhouse gases. Therefore, an experimental study on catalytic pyrolysis technology using a tubular reactor on PPF oil was performed at temperature of 450 oC, which gave oil product yields of 44.1 percent. Viscosity of the PPF oil as a function of temperature was measured at different temperatures ranging from 25 oC to 50 oC. The viscosity of the oils was shown to decrease with increases in temperature. Finally, PPF oil was tested as lubricant in strip drawing and compared with palm olein (PO). A comparison of strip drawn aluminium samples show that the lubrication performance of PPF oil varies with PO in a remarkably similar way.
Surface Chemical Aspects in Boundary Lubrication
Authors: Mori Shigeyuki , Nanao Hidetaka , Hoshi Yasushi
Published: March 2014

Boundary lubricating behaviors were investigated from the viewpoint of surface chemistry based on our results. Boundary lubricating properties are closely related to the chemical structure of boundary lubricating films. TOF-SIMS (time of flight secondary mass spectroscopy) which has several advantages such as high sensitivity, high spatial resolution and high chemical resolution was applied to chemical analysis of boundary lubricating films. Degradation of lubricating films on hard disk media was investigated by TOF-SIMS and removal of the lubricant oil and chemical wear of slider materials was observed. It was found that the tribochemical degradation of the oil was catalyzed by the slider material such as Al2O3 and TiN. The degradation was suppressed when DLC and c-BN were used as a slider material. Thin layer of PTFE on tribo-material composed of PTFE-PEEK was characterized by TOF-SIMS after lubrication tests with a steel ring. It was found that the surface coverage of PTFE was decreased with increasing contact pressure from 6 to 27 MPa and welding occurred when the surface coverage was less than 20%. A tracer method with stable isotopes such as 2H(D), 13C and 18O was introduced for characterization of boundary layer formed from organic additives. Effectiveness of chemisorbed ethyl alcohol-d5 (CD3CD2OH) for lubrication of CrN with alcohol was confirmed by TOF-SIMS analysis. An important role of nascent surfaces on tribochemical reactions to form boundary layers was investigated. For the reaction of EP additives, an organic sulfide was more reactive on nascent steel surface than organic phosphates. It was found that decomposition of synthetic hydrocarbon oil was catalyzed by nascent surface of steel under the effect of frictional heat.
Modeling and Control of a Nonlinear Active Suspension Using Multi-Body Dynamics System Software
Authors: Ismail M. Fahezal , Sam Y. M. , Sudin S. , Peng K. , Aripin M. Khairi
Published: March 2014

This paper describes the mathematical modeling and control of a nonlinear active suspension system for ride comfort and road handling performance by using multi-body dynamics software so-called CarSim. For ride quality and road handling tests the integration between MATLAB/Simulink and multi-body dynamics system software is proposed. The control algorithm called the Conventional Composite Nonlinear Feedback (CCNF) control was introduced to achieve the best transient response that can reduce to overshoot on the sprung mass and angular of control arm of MacPherson active suspension system. The numerical experimental results show the control performance of CCNF comparing with Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) and passive system.
Teleoperation Systems Design Using Singular Perturbation Method and Sliding Mode Controllers
Authors: Ganjefar Soheil , Sarajchi Mohammad Hadi , Mahmoud Hoseini S.
Published: March 2014

The purpose of designing a controller for a teleoperation system is to achieve stability and optimal operation in the presence of factors such as time-delay, system disturbance, and modeling errors. This paper proposes a new method of controller design based on singular perturbation for the bilateral teleoperation of robots through Internet. This study provides sliding mode controller based on the singular perturbation model which is robust on time-varying delay. Using singular perturbation method, the teleoperation system is decomposed into fast and slow subsystems. Teleoperation systems usually have complex dynamic and controller designing is difficult for them. This method is a novel step toward reducing order modeling. In this paper, teleoperation system dynamic was decomposed into two states, slave and error (different from master and slave) and a sliding mode controller was designed for each state. Despite the communication channel in teleoperation systems, it is difficult and almost impossible to design controller based on full-order system. Therefore, many researchers have focused on controller design based on master and slave subsystems. This study shows that the singular perturbation is a proper method for controller design in master or slave, based on slave and error subsystem models with the effect on the total system. It is intended here to reduce the tracking error between the master and the slave. For different values of time-delay, the positions of master-slave were compared. This comparison was also applied for master and slave control signals based on singular perturbation. In all schemes, the effectiveness of the system was shown through simulations and comparisons between the various schemes were presented.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Flow Characteristics Near Casing in an Axial Flow Compressor Rotor at Stable and Stall Inception Conditions
Authors: Wu Yanhui , Wu Junfeng , Zhang Gaoguang , Chu Wuli
Published: March 2014

Casing instantaneous pressure measurements and full-annulus unsteady simulations were undertaken to analyze flow characteristics near casing at stable and stall inception conditions in an axial flow compressor rotor, and the objective was to establish its linkage with the stall inception process. The measured flow characteristic at near-stall stable operating conditions was the appearance of rotating instability (RI), which attributed to the activity of an unsteady flow with varying frequency. A similar flow characteristic was found in the simulated near-stall stable flow conditions, and detailed analyses of instantaneous flow field indicated the formation and activity of tip secondary vortex could be flow mechanism for the appearance of RI as far as nonuniform tip loading distribution in measurements was concerned. The measured flow characteristic before spike emergence was still the activity of RI. However, it was submerged into flow field accompany by the emergence of spike. The simulated stall inception process was similar to that from measurement, and further analyses of instantaneous flow field established the causal linkage between RI and stall inception process for the test rotor.
Modeling of Angiotensin Peptide Metabolism in Renal Proximal Tubules
Authors: Westwood Brian M. , Shaltout Hossam A. , Chappell Mark C.
Published: March 2014

The recent discovery of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a functional peptidase within the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has added a new layer of complexity to the enzymatic cascade of this hormonal system. ACE2 is highly expressed in the proximal tubules of the kidney, an important tissue site involved in blood pressure regulation. Therefore, we derived a model for the processing of Ang I which is the immediate precursor to the biologically active peptides Ang II and Ang-(1-7) based on metabolism data in isolated proximal tubules of the sheep kidney (1). Given the individual experimental velocities for several peptidases expressed in the proximal tubules including ACE, ACE2 and neprilysin, rate constants were calculated to describe the conservation equations for the processing of Ang I, Ang II and Ang-(1-7) We modeled the system with Ang I as the initial substrate and peptide concentrations for the downstream products were calculated using Euler’s method.
Biomechanical Implications of Gender-Dependent Muscle Locations
Authors: Stemper Brian D. , Yoganandan Narayan , Baisden Jamie L. , Pintar Frank A. , Shender Barry S. , Paskoff Glenn
Published: March 2014

Military pilots are subjected to high magnitude inertial loads applied to the head-neck complex during high-G maneuvers. Cervical spinal soft-tissue injuries have occurred in this population [1–3]. Acute injury rates were reported between 54 and 89%, most commonly resulting in muscle or neck pain. Early cervical spine degenerative changes were also identified for fighter pilots [4]. Because the neck muscles are responsible for maintaining head-neck stability, one study hypothesized that cervical injuries in aviators may result from insufficient neck muscle strength to support the head-neck complex during high-G maneuvers [5]. This hypothesis is supported by the finding that pilots participating in pre-injury neck strengthening exercises demonstrated fewer injuries [1]. Although clinical data on the subject are limited, female pilots may be more susceptible to neck injury due to more slender necks and cervical columns that may be less resistant to bending [6, 7]. Differences in neck muscle geometry, in terms of cross-sectional area and positioning, may also lead to differing injury rates. Previous investigations of neck muscle geometry using contemporary medical imaging modalities were conducted with subjects in supine position [8–11], which removes the axial loads of the head and superior cervical structures due to gravity and likely changes neck muscle geometry. To date, no study has outlined gender-dependent neck muscle geometry determined using MRI of subjects in upright, sitting posture. The present hypothesis was that significant gender differences exist in neck muscle geometry.
Validation of a CFD Methodology for Positive Displacement LVAD Analysis Using PIV Data
Authors: Medvitz Richard B. , Reddy Varun , Deutsch Steve , Manning Keefe , Paterson Eric G.
Published: March 2014

A 50cc version of the 70cc Penn State “LionHeart” has been developed for use in a patient population consisting of smaller males, many females, and children. The device has been extensively studied via animal implantation [1], in vitro pump loop testing [2, 3], and computational analyses [4].
The
stum
Gene Is Essential for Mechanical Sensing in Proprioceptive Neurons
Authors: Desai Bela S. , Chadha Abhishek , Cook Boaz
Published: March 2014

Touchy-Feely Genes

All animals need accurate proprioceptive sensation to control motor function.

Desai
et al.

(p.
1256
) identified a
Drosophila
mutant with impaired walking coordination. The affected gene,
stumble
(
stum
), is conserved throughout the animal kingdom and expressed in a subpopulation of multidendritic neurons.
stum
-expressing neurons are found proximal to leg joints, and if the angle of the joint shifts, dendritic stretching occurs that in turn elevates cellular calcium. Therefore, it looks as if
stum
is a transducer for mechanical stimuli.
Getting Rid of a Persistent Troublemaker to Cure Hepatitis
Authors: Shlomai Amir , Rice Charles M.
Published: March 2014

Eliminating the master genomic template of hepatitis B virus in infected liver cells through cytokine therapy may be a route to help cure chronic infection.

[Also see Research Article by

Lucifora
et al.

]
Miltefosine Increases Lipid and Protein Dynamics in Leishmania amazonensis Membranes at Concentrations Similar to Those Needed for Cytotoxicity Activity
Authors: Moreira Rodrigo Alves , Mendanha Sebastião Antonio , Fernandes Kelly Souza , Matos Grazzielle Guimaraes , Alonso Lais , Dorta Miriam Leandro , Alonso Antonio
Published: March 2014

Miltefosine (MT) is a membrane-active alkylphospholipid licensed for the topical treatment of breast cancer skin metastases and the oral treatment of leishmaniasis, although its mechanism of action remains unclear. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy of a spin-labeled lipid and a thiol-specific spin label in the plasma membrane of
Leishmania
promastigotes showed that MT causes dramatic increases in membrane dynamics. Although these alterations can be detected using a spin-labeled lipid, our experimental results indicated that MT interacts predominantly with the protein component of the membrane. Cell lysis was also detected by analyzing the supernatants of centrifuged samples for the presence of spin-labeled membrane fragments and cytoplasmic proteins. Using a method for the rapid incorporation of MT into the membrane, these effects were measured immediately after treatment under the same range of MT concentrations that cause cell growth inhibition. Cytotoxicity, estimated via microscopic counting of living and dead cells, indicated ∼70% cell death at the concentration of MT at which EPR spectroscopy detected a significant change in membrane dynamics. After this initial impact on the number of viable parasites, the processes of cell death and growth continued during the first 4 h of incubation. The EPR spectra of spin-labeled membrane-bound proteins were consistent with more expanded and solvent-exposed protein conformations, suggesting a detergent-like action. Thus, MT may form micelle-like structures around polypeptide chains, and proteins with a higher hydrophobicity may induce the penetration of hydrophilic groups of MT into the membrane, causing its rupture.
Characterization of the Population Pharmacokinetics of Ampicillin in Neonates Using an Opportunistic Study Design
Authors: Tremoulet Adriana , Le Jennifer , Poindexter Brenda , Sullivan Janice E. , Laughon Matthew , Delmore Paula , Salgado Andrea , Ian-U Chong Sandy , Melloni Chiara , Gao Jamie , Benjamin Daniel K. , Capparelli Edmund V. , Cohen-Wolkowiez Michael
Published: March 2014

Although ampicillin is the most commonly used drug in neonates, developmental pharmacokinetic (PK) data to guide dosing are lacking. Ampicillin is primarily renally eliminated, and developmental changes are expected to influence PK. We conducted an open-label, multicenter, opportunistic, prospective PK study of ampicillin in neonates stratified by gestational age (GA) (≤34 or >34 weeks) and postnatal age (PNA) (≤7 or >7 days). Drug concentrations were measured by tandem mass spectrometry. PK data were analyzed using population nonlinear mixed-effects modeling in NONMEM 7.2. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to determine the probability of target attainment for the time in which the total steady-state ampicillin concentrations remained above the MIC (
T
>MIC) for 50%, 75%, and 100% of the dosing interval. A total of 142 PK samples from 73 neonates were analyzed (median [range] GA, 36 [24 to 41] weeks; PNA, 5 [0 to 25] days). The median ampicillin dose was 200 (100 to 350) mg/kg/day. Postmenstrual age and serum creatinine were covariates for ampicillin clearance (CL). A simplified dosing regimen of 50 mg/kg every 12 h for GA of ≤34 weeks and PNA of ≤7 days, 75 mg/kg every 12 h for GA of ≤34 weeks and PNA of ≥8 and ≤28 days, and 50 mg/kg every 8 h for GA of >34 weeks and PNA of ≤28 days achieved the prespecified surrogate efficacy target in 90% of simulated subjects. Ampicillin CL was associated with neonatal development. A simplified dosing regimen stratified by GA and PNA achieves the desired surrogate therapeutic target in the vast majority of neonates.
Application of Qualitative and Quantitative Real-Time PCR, Direct Sequencing, and Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis for Detection and Identification of Polymicrobial 16S rRNA Genes in Ascites
Authors: Krohn Sandra , Böhm Stephan , Engelmann Cornelius , Hartmann Jan , Brodzinski Annika , Chatzinotas Antonis , Zeller Katharina , Prywerek Delia , Fetzer Ingo , Berg Thomas
Published: March 2014

Qualitative and quantitative 16S rRNA gene-based real-time PCR and direct sequencing were applied for rapid detection and identification of bacterial DNA (bactDNA) in 356 ascites samples. bactDNA was detected in 35% of samples, with a mean of 3.24 log copies ml
−1
. Direct sequencing of PCR products revealed 62% mixed chromatograms predominantly belonging to Gram-positive bacteria. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) results of a sample subset confirmed sequence data showing polymicrobial DNA contents in 67% of bactDNA-positive ascites samples.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF for Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Specimens: Establishing a Laboratory Testing Algorithm for South Africa
Authors: Scott Lesley Erica , Beylis Natalie , Nicol Mark , Nkuna Gloria , Molapo Sebaka , Berrie Leigh , Duse Adriano , Stevens Wendy Susan
Published: March 2014

South Africa implemented Xpert MTB/RIF as the initial diagnostic test for pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). Xpert MTB/RIF's accuracy for diagnosing extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) was investigated. EPTB specimens (
n
= 7,916) from hospitalized patients received over a 6-month period at a high-throughput TB referral laboratory in Johannesburg were investigated. Large-volume specimens were centrifuged, tissue biopsy specimens homogenized, and all specimens checked for growth of contaminating bacteria on blood agar. Contaminated samples received NALC-NaOH (
N
-acetyl-
l
-cysteine–sodium hydroxide) decontamination prior to liquid culture. Residual specimens (volumes > 1 ml) after inoculation of culture (
n
= 1,175) were tested using the Xpert MTB/RIF sputum protocol. Using culture as the reference, Xpert MTB/RIF's overall sensitivity was 59% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 53% to 65%) and specificity was 92% (CI, 90% to 94%), with the highest sensitivities of 91% (95% CI, 78% to 97%) for pus, 80% (95% CI, 56% to 94%) for lymph node aspirates, and 51% (95% CI, 44% to 58%) for fluids (ascitic, 59%; pleural, 47%). A difference in sensitivities was noticed between specimens classified as having a thick (87% [95% CI, 76% to 94%]) versus clear (watery) (48% [95% CI, 36% to 61%]) appearance. This was unchanged with traces of blood (52% [95% CI, 44% to 60%]) or precentrifugation (57% [95% CI, 28% to 82%]) among clear specimens. Xpert MTB/RIF generated an additional 124 specimen results that were contaminated by Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tubes (MGIT; 10.5%) and diagnosed rifampin (RIF) resistance earlier (9.6% [25/260]). Xpert MTB/RIF's performance on EPTB specimens provides very promising results and should be considered for incorporation into national TB guidelines. Xpert MTB/RIF is less affected by contaminating bacteria and reduces laboratory labor and diagnostic delay compared to traditional methods.
The NSs Protein of Tomato spotted wilt virus Is Required for Persistent Infection and Transmission by Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Margaria P. , Bosco L. , Vallino M. , Ciuffo M. , Mautino G. C. , Tavella L. , Turina M.
Published: March 2014

Tomato spotted wilt virus
(TSWV) is the type member of tospoviruses (genus
Tospovirus
), plant-infecting viruses that cause severe damage to ornamental and vegetable crops. Tospoviruses are transmitted by thrips in the circulative propagative mode. We generated a collection of NSs-defective TSWV isolates and showed that TSWV coding for truncated NSs protein could not be transmitted by
Frankliniella occidentalis
. Quantitative reverse transcription (RT)-PCR and immunostaining of individual insects detected the mutant virus in second-instar larvae and adult insects, demonstrating that insects could acquire and accumulate the NSs-defective virus. Nevertheless, adults carried a significantly lower viral load, resulting in the absence of transmission. Genome sequencing and analyses of reassortant isolates showed genetic evidence of the association between the loss of competence in transmission and the mutation in the NSs coding sequence. Our findings offer new insight into the TSWV-thrips interaction and
Tospovirus
pathogenesis and highlight, for the first time in the
Bunyaviridae
family, a major role for the S segment, and specifically for the NSs protein, in virulence and efficient infection in insect vector individuals.

IMPORTANCE
Our work is the first to show a role for the NSs protein in virus accumulation in the insect vector in the
Bunyaviridae
family: demonstration was obtained for the system TSWV-
F. occidentalis
, arguably one of the most damaging combination for vegetable crops. Genetic evidence of the involvement of the NSs protein in vector transmission was provided with multiple approaches.
Perforated isolated jejunal diverticulum: a rare aetiology of acute abdomen
Authors: Baksi Aditya , Gupta Shahana , Kumar Sanjeev , Ray Udipta
Published: March 2014

In the absence of trauma, perforated jejunal diverticulum (JD) is a rare entity. Perforated isolated JD is rarer. We report a case of perforated isolated JD in a 55-year-old woman who presented with features of peritonitis and had no history of trauma. Resection and anastomosis of the involved jejunal segment was performed.
Missed canal…call from radix entomolaris
Authors: Patil Anil , Shigli Anand , Tamagond Sridevi B , Pushpalatha C
Published: March 2014

A comprehensive understanding of root and root canal morphology of primary teeth is valuable for successful endodontic therapy. A supernumerary root is a developmental anomaly which can affect any tooth. An extra root placed lingually (radix entomolaris) or buccally (radix paramolaris) can be seen in mandibular molars nonetheless; bilateral association of an additional root in deciduous mandibular molars is rare. This report aimed to describe the diagnosis, significance and management of an extra root in deciduous mandibular molars bilaterally in perspective of modern clinical paediatric endodontics.
Small bowel obstruction and perforation secondary to primary enterolithiasis in a patient with jejunal diverticulosis
Authors: Chaudhery Baber , Newman Peter Alexander , Kelly Michael Denis
Published: March 2014

We describe a rare case of small bowel obstruction and perforation secondary to a primary enterolith in an 84-year-old female patient with jejunal diverticulosis. She underwent an emergency laparotomy, small bowel resection and primary anastomosis. Multiple jejunal diverticula and a large stone were identified at the time of operation. Analysis of the stone demonstrated mainly faecal material consistent with a true primary enterolith. A literature search of Medline and PubMed revealed three cases similar to the one described. The pathogenesis and management of enterolithiasis in jejunal diverticular disease is considered.
THE PREVENTIVE EFFECT OF THE NORDIC HAMSTRING EXERCISE ON HAMSTRING INJURIES IN AMATEUR SOCCER PLAYERS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: van der Horst N , Wouter Smits D , Petersen J , Goedhart E , Backx F
Published: March 2014

Background

Hamstring injuries are the most common muscle injuries in male amateur soccer. Eccentric strength of the hamstrings is recognized as an important modifiable risk factor, leading to the development of preventive exercises such as the Nordic Hamstring Exercise.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the preventive effect of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise on the incidence and severity of hamstring injuries in male amateur soccer players.

Design

Cluster-randomized controlled trial with soccer teams as the unit of cluster.

Setting

Dutch first class amateur field soccer.

Participants

Male amateur soccer players (mean age 24.5 years, SD 3.8 years) from 40 teams were allocated to intervention (n=309 players) or control group (n=310 players).

Risk factor assessment

The intervention group was instructed to perform 25 sessions of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise within a period of 13 weeks during the first months of 2013. Both the intervention group and control group performed regular soccer training and were followed for hamstring injury incidence and severity during the calendar year 2013. At baseline, personal characteristics (e.g. age, injury history, field position) were gathered from all participants via questionnaire.

Main outcome measurements

Primary outcomes are initial and recurrent hamstring injury incidence (number of hamstring injuries) and injury severity (number of days injured).

Results

Interim analysis after intervention (2 months follow-up) show a total of 2 hamstring injuries in intervention group vs 12 hamstring injuries in control group (χ2=7.5, P<.05). Regarding injury severity, no difference was found between intervention and control group (t=0.3, P=.77).

Conclusions

Preliminary analyses during the summer break show substantial hamstring injury incidence reduction by incorporating the Nordic Hamstring Exercise in regular training. With a total follow-up of 9 months, final analyses (survival analyses including the number of injuries per 1000 playing hours) will be performed in January 2014.