bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Final results of the multicenter, prospective Axium MicroFX for Endovascular Repair of IntraCranial Aneurysm Study (AMERICA)
Authors: Fargen Kyle M , Blackburn Spiros , Deshaies Eric M , Carpenter Jeffrey S , Jabbour Pascal , Mack William J , Rai Ansaar T , Siddiqui Adnan H , Turner Raymond D , Mocco J
Published: January 2014

Background

We previously performed a multicenter prospective single-arm trial of 100 patients treated with Axium MicroFX Coils (ev3; Plymouth, Minnesota, USA), AMERICA: Axium MicroFX for Endovascular Repair of IntraCranial Aneurysm study. Initial angiographic and clinical outcomes were excellent. The final results are presented herein.

Methods

AMERICA is a multicenter, prospective single-arm trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of the ev3 Axium MicroFX coil system in 100 separate aneurysms between April 2010 and October 2012. Trial endpoints were 3–6 month angiographic occlusion and clinical status, as reported by treatment center.

Results

Mean follow-up was 157.9 days (median 153.5, range 1–445, SEM 9.3 days). At last follow-up imaging, 90.6% of all aneurysms, 90% of unruptured aneurysms, and 93.3% of ruptured aneurysms had Raymond grade I or II occlusion. Progression to further occlusion (lower Raymond occlusion grade) occurred in 29/85 aneurysms (34.1%). Aneurysm recurrence occurred in 11/85 aneurysms (12.9%). Ninety-nine per cent of patients treated electively and 68.7% of ruptured patients had a modified Rankin score of 0–2. Delayed adverse events (AEs), occurring after discharge and during the follow-up period, occurred in 10% of patients. In total, two AEs (one severe and one moderate) were potentially related to the device, thereby providing a 2% device-related AE rate.

Conclusions

In this prospective, multicenter series of 100 aneurysms treated with Axium MicroFX PGLA (polyglycolic/polylactic acid) coils, 3–6 month angiographic occlusion and clinical outcomes were excellent. This study suggests that Axium MicroFX PGLA coils are safe and effective in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms.
Valuing native ectomycorrhizal fungi as a Mediterranean forestry component for sustainable and innovative solutions
Authors: Azul Anabela Marisa , Nunes João , Ferreira Inês , Coelho Ana Sofia , Veríssimo Paula , Trovão João , Campos António , Castro Paula , Freitas Helena
Published: January 2014

Native ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMF) represent an emergent critical support in forestry and bioindustry while providing an attractive economical return and ecosystems services. These attributes are desirable given the human activities that are affecting ecosystems and biodiversity worldwide. The Mediterranean region has inherited native forests that are in serious decay, with serious environmental and socioeconomic consequences as a result of human influence in shaping ecosystems, particularly over the last century. In this context, edible ECMF are important not only because of their value for ecosystem functions, but also for their organoleptic and nutritive properties, and because of the presence of bioactive compounds. In this paper, we discuss critical aspects of ECMF diversity and traits for forest health, productivity, and sustainability, as well as the importance of exploring biologically active proteins obtained from native ECMF as sources for future forest management planning and industry innovation. The use of convergent approaches to ameliorate the identity of ECMF reservoirs in forest ecosystems and rural lands is urgently required to restore and protect native biodiversity and ecosystems services and meet efficient production solutions to provide sustainable innovation while ensuring environmental safety.
A comparison of greenhouse gas emissions in the residential sector of major Canadian cities
Authors: Mohareb Eugene A. , Mohareb Adrian K.
Published: January 2014

One of the most significant sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Canada is the buildings sector, with over 30% of national energy end-use occurring in buildings. Energy use must be addressed to reduce emissions from the buildings sector, as nearly 70% of all Canada’s energy used in the residential sector comes from fossil sources. An analysis of GHG emissions from the existing residential building stock for the year 2010 has been conducted for six Canadian cities with different climates and development histories: Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax. Variation across these cities is seen in their 2010 GHG emissions, due to climate, characteristics of the building stock, and energy conversion technologies, with Halifax having the highest per capita emissions at 5.55 tCO2e/capita and Montreal having the lowest at 0.32 tCO2e/capita. The importance of the provincial electricity grid’s carbon intensity is emphasized, along with era of construction, occupancy, floor area, and climate. Approaches to achieving deep emissions reductions include innovative retrofit financing and city level residential energy conservation by-laws; each region should seek location-appropriate measures to reduce energy demand within its residential housing stock, as well as associated GHG emissions.
TOTAL CROSS-SECTION FOR PHOTON–AXION CONVERSIONS IN EXTERNAL ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: SOA D. V. , LONG H. N. , THAM T. D.
Published: January 2014

We reconsider the conversion of the photon into axion in the external electromagnetic fields, namely in the static fields and in a periodic field of the wave guide. The total cross-sections for the conversion are evaluated in detail. The result shows that with strong strength of external electromagnetic fields, the cross-sections are large enough to measure the axion production. In the wave guide, there exists the resonant conversion at the low energies, in which the value of cross-sections is much enhanced.
FINE-GRAINED PARALLEL APPLICATION SPECIFIC COMPUTING FOR RNA SECONDARY STRUCTURE PREDICTION ON FPGA
Authors: ZHU QIANGHUA , XIA FEI , JIN GUOQING
Published: January 2014

RNA secondary structure prediction is one of the important research areas in modern bioinformatics and computational biology. PKNOTS is the most famous benchmark program and has been widely used to predict RNA secondary structure including pseudoknots. It adopts the standard 4D dynamic programming method and is the basis of many variants and improved algorithms. Unfortunately, the O(N6) computing requirements and complicated data dependency greatly limits the usefulness of PKNOTS package with the explosion in gene database size. In this paper, we present a fine-grained parallel PKNOTS algorithm and prototype system for accelerating RNA folding application on field programmable gate-array (FPGA) platform. We improved data locality by converting cycle nested relationship and reorganizing computing order of the elements in source code. We aggressively exploit data reuse, data dependency elimination and memory access scheduling strategies to minimize the need for loading data from external memory. To the best of our knowledge, our design is the first FPGA implementation for accelerating 4D dynamic programming problem for RNA folding application including pseudoknots. The experimental results show a factor of more than 11 × average speedup over the PKNOTS-1.05 software running on a PC platform with AMD Phenom 9650 Quad CPU for input RNA sequences. However, the power consumption of our FPGA accelerator is only about 50% of the general-purpose micro-processors.
SYNCHRONIZATION OF COUPLED NEURAL OSCILLATORS WITH HETEROGENEOUS DELAYS
Authors: PANCHUK ANASTASIIA , ROSIN DAVID P. , HÖVEL PHILIPP , SCHÖLL ECKEHARD
Published: January 2014

We investigate the effects of heterogeneous delays on the coupling of two excitable neural systems. Depending upon the coupling strengths and the time delays in the mutual and self-coupling systems, the compound system exhibits different types of synchronized oscillations of variable period. We analyze this synchronization based on the interplay of the different time delays and support the numerical results by analytical findings. In addition, we elaborate on bursting-like dynamics with two competing timescales on the basis of the autocorrelation function.
PHASE CONTROL IN THE MASS-SPRING MODEL WITH NONSMOOTH STIFFNESS AND EXTERNAL EXCITATION
Authors: COCCOLO MATTIA , SEOANE JESÚS M. , LITAK GRZEGORZ , SANJUÁN MIGUEL A. F.
Published: January 2014

The control of chaotic dynamics in a nonlinear mass-spring model with nonsmooth stiffness is analyzed here. This is carried out by applying the phase control technique, which uses a periodic perturbation of a suitable phase ϕ. For this purpose, we take as prototype model a system consisting of a double-well potential with an additional spring component, which acts into the system only for large enough displacements. The crucial role of the phase is evidenced by using numerical simulations and also by using analytical methods, such as the Melnikov analysis. We expect that our results might be fruitful with implications in some mechanical problems such as suspension of vehicles, among others, where similar models are extensively used.
BIFURCATIONS OF NORMALLY HYPERBOLIC INVARIANT MANIFOLDS IN ANALYTICALLY TRACTABLE MODELS AND CONSEQUENCES FOR REACTION DYNAMICS
Authors: MAUGUIÈRE FRÉDÉRIC A. L. , COLLINS PETER , EZRA GREGORY S. , WIGGINS STEPHEN
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we study the breakdown of normal hyperbolicity and its consequences for reaction dynamics; in particular, the dividing surface, the flux through the dividing surface (DS), and the gap time distribution. Our approach is to study these questions using simple, two degree-of-freedom Hamiltonian models where calculations for the different geometrical and dynamical quantities can be carried out exactly. For our examples, we show that resonances within the normally hyperbolic invariant manifold may, or may not, lead to a "loss of normal hyperbolicity". Moreover, we show that the onset of such resonances results in a change in topology of the dividing surface, but does not affect our ability to define a DS. The flux through the DS varies continuously with energy, even as the energy is varied in such a way that normal hyperbolicity is lost. For our examples, the gap time distributions exhibit singularities at energies corresponding to the existence of homoclinic orbits in the DS, but these singularities are not associated with loss of normal hyperbolicity.
MULTISTABILITY IN A BUTTERFLY FLOW
Authors: LI CHUNBIAO , SPROTT J. C.
Published: January 2014

A dynamical system with four quadratic nonlinearities is found to display a butterfly strange attractor. In a relatively large region of parameter space the system has coexisting point attractors and limit cycles. At some special parameter combinations, there are five coexisting attractors, where a limit cycle coexists with two equilibrium points and two strange attractors in different attractor basins. The basin boundaries have a symmetric fractal structure. In addition, the system has other multistable regimes where a pair of point attractors coexist with a single limit cycle or a symmetric pair of limit cycles and where a symmetric pair of limit cycles coexist without any stable equilibria.
ASYMPTOTIC DYNAMICS OF 2D FRACTIONAL COMPLEX GINZBURG–LANDAU EQUATION
Authors: LU HONG , LÜ SHUJUAN , FENG ZHAOSHENG
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we consider the well-posedness and asymptotic behaviors of solutions of the fractional complex Ginzburg–Landau equation with the initial and periodic boundary conditions in two spatial dimensions. We explore the existence and uniqueness of global smooth solution by means of the Galerkin method and establish the existence of the global attractor. The estimates of the upper bounds of Hausdorff and fractal dimensions for the global attractor are presented.
TOWARDS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MEMRISTOR: A STUDY OF THE ELECTRIC PROPERTIES OFBa0.77Sr0.23TiO3MATERIAL
Authors: LI YUXIA , DOU GANG
Published: January 2014

This article reports a recent significant progress towards the implementation of the memristor. In the process, Sr -doped BaTiO3composite ceramic (thickness 1mm) was prepared by using the solid-state reaction method, whose basic properties (such as phases, microstructure and electric conductivity) were investigated by using XRD (X-ray Diffraction), SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and an impedance analyzer. The electric conductivity of the Ba0.77Sr0.23TiO3(BST) ceramic shows that: (i) the conductivity of ceramic samples is increased with the increase of DC bias, demonstrating its nonlinear characteristics; (ii) the nonvolatile characteristics of ceramic samples are increased with the decrease of the temperature. Consequently, we conclude that the ceramic sample should have favorable nonvolatile behavior if the sample thickness is in nanoscale and the temperature is decreased to the room temperature. To that end, the current–voltage I–V curves of a BST nanometer film, prepared by sol–gel technique using the spin-coating method, are depicted. The experimental result illustrates its non-ohmic behavior and shows that the I–V curves are hysteretic. Both these indicate that the BST is a memristive system, and the BST monolayer nanometer film has important theoretical significance with a great potential in application to the memristor.
ALLOWABLE CLOSED SURFACE EVALUATIONS FROM TOPOLOGICAL QUANTUM FIELD THEORY
Authors: DRUBE PAUL
Published: January 2014

Every 2D TQFT evaluates closed 2D surfaces to an element of the base field. These evaluations appear as a fundamental part of the skein relations induced by the TQFT, dating back to Bar-Natan. We definitively classify what sets of closed surface evaluations may arise from a 2D TQFT. Our answer reveals a deep relationship between achievable evaluations and the theory of symmetric polynomials. We then apply our results to precisely determine which 2D TQFTs have an associated Frobenius algebra that may be realized as the algebra of all surfaces with boundary S1, modulo surfaces that are "evaluated similarly" by the TQFT.
CRITICAL SCALING OF TWO-COMPONENT SYSTEMS FROM QUANTUM FLUCTUATIONS
Authors: MABIALA J. , BONASERA A. , ZHENG H. , MCINTOSH A. B. , KOHLEY Z. , CAMMARATA P. , HAGEL K. , HEILBORN L. , MAY L. W. , RAPHELT A. , SOULIOTIS G. A. , ZARRELLA A. , YENNELLO S. J.
Published: January 2014

The thermodynamics of excited nuclear systems allows the exploration of a phase transition in a two-component quantum mixture. Temperatures and densities are derived from quantum fluctuations of fermions. The pressures are determined from the grand partition function of Fisher's model. Critical scaling of observables is found for the first time for fragmenting systems which differ in neutron to proton concentrations thus constraining the equation of state (EOS) of asymmetric nuclear material. The derived critical exponent, β = 0.35 ±0.01, belongs to the liquid–gas universality class. The critical compressibility factor Pc/ρcTc increases with increasing neutron concentration, which could be due to finite-size and/or Coulomb effects.
STRUCTURE OF ODD 79,81,83Se ISOTOPES WITH PROTON AND NEUTRON EXCITATIONS ACROSS Z = 28 AND N = 40
Authors: KUMAR VIKAS , SRIVASTAVA P. C.
Published: January 2014

The recently measured experimental data of 79,81,83 Se isotopes have been interpreted in terms of shell model (SM) calculations. The calculations have been performed in f5/2pg9/2 space with the recently derived interactions, namely JUN45 and jj44b. To study the importance of the proton excitations across the Z = 28 shell in this region, we have also performed calculation in fpg9/2 valence space using an fpg effective interaction with 48 Ca core and imposing a truncation. Excitation energies, B(2) values, quadrupole moments and magnetic moments are compared with the experimental data available. Present study reveals the importance of proton excitations across the Z = 28 shell for predicting quadrupole and magnetic moments.
HEAVY BARYONIA WITH THE OPEN AND HIDDEN CHARM
Authors: GERASYUTA S. M. , MATSKEVICH E. E.
Published: January 2014

The relativistic six-quark equations are found in the framework of the dispersion relation technique. The charmed baryonia are constructed without the mixing of the quarks and antiquarks. The relativistic six-quark amplitudes of the heavy baryonia with the open and hidden charm are calculated. The poles of these amplitudes determine the masses of heavy baryonia. Twenty masses of baryonia are predicted.
MAGIC TREES IN MAMMALIANS RESPIRATION OR WHEN EVOLUTION SELECTED CLEVER PHYSICAL SYSTEMS
Authors: SAPOVAL B. , FILOCHE M.
Published: January 2014

The respiratory system of mammalians is made of two successive branched structures with different physiological functions. The upper structure, or bronchial tree, is a fluid transportation system made of approximately 15 generations of bifurcations leading to the order of 215 = 30,000 bronchioles with a diameter of order 0.5 mm in the human lung.1 The branching pattern continues up to generation 23 but the structure and function of each of the subsequent structures, called the acini, is different. Each acinus is made of a branched system of ducts surrounded by alveolae and play the role of a diffusion cell where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with blood across the alveolar membrane.2 We show in this paper that the bronchial tree presents simultaneously several optimal properties of totally different nature. It is first energy efficient;3-6 second, it is space filling;7 and third it is "rapid" as discussed here. It is this multi-optimality that is qualified here as magic. The multi-optimality physical characteristic suggests that, in the course of evolution, an organ selected against one criterion could have been later used for a totally different reason. For example, once energetic efficiency for the transport of a viscous fluid like blood has been selected, the same genetic material could have been used for its optimized rapidity. This would have allowed the emergence of mammalian respiration made of inspiration–expiration cycles. For this phenomenon to exist, the rapid character is essential, as fresh air has to reach the gas exchange organs, the pulmonary acini, before the start of expiration.
THE NET ADSORPTION OF HYDROGEN ON PALLADIUM NANOPARTICLES
Authors: SAHU DEBJYOTI , MISHRA PRASHANT , DAS NITUN , VERMA ANIL , GUMMA SASIDHAR
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we report the synthesis of polymer coated palladium ( Pd ) nanoparticles through a single stage reduction of Pd 2+ ions by ethylene glycol. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP, MW 25,000) is used as a stabilizer. Self-assembled Pd nanoparticles (10–40 nm) were used in hydrogen adsorption studies. Gravimetric adsorption measurements were carried out in a pressure range of 0–26 bar at 293, 324, 364 and 392 K. Saturation for all isotherms was obtained within a few bars of pressure at all temperatures. Maximum hydrogen storage capacity observed was 0.58 wt.% at 324 K and 20 bar. Net adsorption calculations indicated that required tank volume (for storing a particular amount of hydrogen) can be significantly reduced by using a tank filled with Pd nanoparticle.
EASY SYNTHESIS OFLi4Ti5O12/CMICROSPHERES CONTAINING NANOPARTICLES AS ANODE MATERIAL FOR HIGH-RATELi-ION BATTERIES
Authors: ZHENG XIAODONG , DONG LINA , DONG CHENCHU
Published: January 2014

A microspherical Li4Ti5O12/ C composite composed of interconnected nanoparticles with BP-2000 carbon black as carbon source is synthesized for use as an anode material in high-power lithium-ion batteries. The composite is prepared through precursor pretreatment including pre-sintering, ball-milling, and spray-drying. The structure, size and surface morphology of the as-prepared particles are investigated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Results show that the obtained material has a microspherical morphology consisting of nanosized prime particles with compact structure. The precursor pretreatment effectively reduced the agglomeration of the prime particles caused by high temperature sintering and led to a more uniform distribution of BP-2000 on the surface of prime particles generating highly efficient conductive network. The specific capacity of the electrode at 20 C rate is 131 mAh g-1and the loss of capacity is less than 2% after the 60 variation cycles (from 1 C to 20 C and back to 1 C). This excellent performance is attributed to the effective conductive network between the prime particles and the reduction of the lithium-ion diffusion pathway.
EFFECT OF UPPER AIRWAY SHAPE ON OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA SYNDROME: NUMERICAL SIMULATION BY FLUID-STRUCTURE INTERACTION METHOD
Authors: RONG QIGUO , REN SHUANG , LI QIHONG
Published: January 2014

Anatomic abnormality is an important pathogenic factor of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Airflow through the upper airway is a dynamic process involving fluid-structure interactions from a mechanical point of view. In this study, a general finite element model of the upper airway and surrounding tissues was transformed to a new configuration to simulate the results of maxillomandibular advancement surgery. The breathing process was simulated for both the general and transformed models by applying the same loading and boundary conditions. The simulation results showed that the maximum strain was obviously reduced and the pressure gradient around the oropharynx became smoother after morphological transformation.
STUDY ON A SELF-PROPELLED FISH SWIMMING IN VISCOUS FLUID BY A FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors: TIAN FANG-BAO , XU YUAN-QING , TANG XIAO-YING , DENG YU-LIN
Published: January 2014

A self-propelled fish swimming in viscous fluid is investigated by solving the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations numerically with the space-time finite element method to understand the mechanisms of aquatic animal locomotion. Two types of propulsion strategies, undulatory body and traveling wave surface (TWS), are considered. Based on the simulations, we find that by performing lateral undulation, the fish is able to move forward with a reverse von Kármán vortex street in its wake. In addition, there is no vortex street in the wake of the fish using TWS. In this case, the thrust of the fish is generated by the jets outside the boundary layer and the high pressure on the leeward side of the traveling wave. The results obtained in this paper will be of help in understanding of the propulsive performance of aquatic animal locomotion.
A MATHEMATICAL MODEL FOR MICRO- AND NANO-SWIMMERS
Authors: XU YUAN-QING , TIAN FANG-BAO , TANG XIAO-YING , PENG YU-HUA
Published: January 2014

In order to explore the kinetic characteristics of planktonic microorganisms and nanometer biological motors, a mathematical model is developed to estimate the hydrodynamic force in the migration of micro- and nano-swimmers by using the Laplace transformation and linear superposition. Based on the model, it is found that a micro- and nano-swimmer will enjoy a positive propulsive force by improving frequencies or generating traveling waves along its body if it is not time reversible. The results obtained in this study provide a physical insight into the behaviors of the micro- and nano-swimmer at low Reynolds numbers, and the corresponding quantitative basis can also be potentially used in the design of nanorobot and nanosized biomaterials.
OPTIONAL DESIGN OF LEG STRUCTURE OF BIONIC QUADRUPED ROBOT
Authors: CHEN BIN , TANG ZHIYONG , PEI ZHONGCAI
Published: January 2014

A kind of new bionic quadruped robot-Hound was designed. Determined the structure of the robot body and geometry relationships based on the bionics research, especially the structure of legs which was the root of robot action. According to the problem of abundant leg segments and complicated structure, studied on achieving the optimal design of leg structure so as to increase the workspace area of robot leg and improve the flexibility of robot body. Found the best length ratio of leg segments through the analysis of the workspace, flexibility, obstacle crossing height of robot. These research results provided the reliable theoretical basis for the structure optimization of robot leg and could greatly promote the motor ability of hydraulic quadruped robot.
DEVELOPMENT AND WALKING CONTROL OF EMOTIONAL HUMANOID ROBOT, KIBO
Authors: LEE SANGYONG , KIM JUNG-YUP , KIM MUNSANG
Published: January 2014

This paper deals with the mechanical design, system integration, and dynamic walking algorithm of KIBO, an emotional biped humanoid robot that has a facial expression mechanism and various human-interactive devices. To emphasize the aesthetic features and marketability of KIBO, the mechanical design was performed after the exterior design stage to conform to all requirements, particularly constraints imposed by the external appearance and human-like link dimensions. For flexible biped walking, a walking pattern generator with variable walking parameters was developed. The walking pattern generator generates both a walking pattern and a corresponding reference zero-moment point (ZMP) pattern simultaneously. For stable biped walking, a walking control strategy using the ZMP and inertial sensor data was developed. In the strategy, we newly proposed a dual ZMP control approach and a posture control approach using an equivalent body inclination, which is calculated from the ZMP and inertial sensor data for robust walking on non-level ground. Finally, the hardware, software architecture, and dynamic walking performance of KIBO were verified through several walking experiments.
SPECTRAL COLLOCATION METHOD FOR MULTI-ORDER FRACTIONAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
Authors: GHOREISHI F. , MOKHTARY P.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, the spectral collocation method is investigated for the numerical solution of multi-order Fractional Differential Equations (FDEs). We choose the orthogonal Jacobi polynomials and set of Jacobi Gauss–Lobatto quadrature points as basis functions and grid points respectively. This solution strategy is an application of the matrix-vector-product approach in spectral approximation of FDEs. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo type. Numerical solvability and an efficient convergence analysis of the method have also been discussed. Due to the fact that the solutions of fractional differential equations usually have a weak singularity at origin, we use a variable transformation method to change some classes of the original equation into a new equation with a unique smooth solution such that, the spectral collocation method can be applied conveniently. We prove that after this regularization technique, numerical solution of the new equation has exponential rate of convergence. Some standard examples are provided to confirm the reliability of the proposed method.
Invasion Biology ofAedes japonicus japonicus(Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Kaufman Michael G. , Fonseca Dina M.
Published: January 2014

Aedes japonicus japonicus (Theobald) (Diptera: Culicidae) has recently expanded beyond its native range of Japan and Korea into large parts of North America and Central Europe. Population genetic studies begun immediately after the species was detected in North America revealed genetically distinct introductions that subsequently merged, likely contributing to the successful expansion. Interactions, particularly in the larval stage, with other known disease vectors give this invasive subspecies the potential to influence local disease dynamics. Its successful invasion likely does not involve superior direct competitive abilities, but it is associated with the use of diverse larval habitats and a cold tolerance that allows an expanded seasonal activity range in temperate climates. We predict a continued but slower expansion of Ae. j. japonicus in North America and a continued rapid expansion into other areas as this mosquito will eventually be considered a permanent resident of much of North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Hawaii.
The Development and Functions of Oenocytes
Authors: Makki Rami , Cinnamon Einat , Gould Alex P.
Published: January 2014

Oenocytes have intrigued insect physiologists since the nineteenth century. Many years of careful but mostly descriptive research on these cells highlights their diverse sizes, numbers, and anatomical distributions across Insecta. Contemporary molecular genetic studies in Drosophila melanogaster and Tribolium castaneum support the hypothesis that oenocytes are of ectodermal origin. They also suggest that, in both short and long germ-band species, oenocytes are induced from a Spalt major/Engrailed ectodermal zone by MAPK signaling. Recent glimpses into some of the physiological functions of oenocytes indicate that they involve fatty acid and hydrocarbon metabolism. Genetic studies in D. melanogaster have shown that larval oenocytes synthesize very-long-chain fatty acids required for tracheal waterproofing and that adult oenocytes produce cuticular hydrocarbons required for desiccation resistance and pheromonal communication. Exciting areas of future research include the evolution of oenocytes and their cross talk with other tissues involved in lipid metabolism such as the fat body.
Stability against Brushing Abrasion and the Erosion-Protective Effect of Different Fluoride Compounds
Authors: Wiegand A. , Schneider S. , Sener B. , Roos M. , Attin T.
Published: January 2014

This study aimed to analyse the impact of brushing on the protective effect of different fluoride solutions on enamel and dentin erosion. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens were rinsed once with TiF4, AmF, SnF2 (0.5 M F, 2 min) or water (control). Specimens were either left unbrushed or brushed with 10, 20, 50, 100 or 500 brushing strokes in an automatic brushing machine (2 N, non-fluoridated toothpaste slurry). Ten specimens per group were eroded with hydrochloric acid (HCl) (pH 2.3) for 60 s, and calcium release into the acid was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Additionally, enamel and dentin surfaces were analysed by X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) (n = 6/group) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (n = 2/group) before brushing and after 500 brushing strokes. Statistical analysis (p < 0.05) was performed by three- and one-way ANOVA (calcium release) or repeated measures ANOVA (EDS). TiF4, AmF and SnF2 reduced the erosive calcium loss in unbrushed specimens to 58-67% (enamel) and 23-31% (dentin) of control. Calcium release increased with increasing brushing strokes prior to erosion and amounted to 70-88% (enamel) and 45-78% (dentin) of control after 500 brushing strokes. Brushing reduced the surface concentration of fluoride (AmF), tin (SnF2) and titanium (TiF4). SEM revealed that surface precipitates were affected by long-term brushing. Brushing reduced the protective potential of TiF4, AmF and SnF2 solutions. However, considering a small number of brushing strokes, the protective effect of fluoride solutions is only slightly affected by brushing abrasion.
Metabolic and Psychological Response to 7-Day Fasting in Obese Patients with and without Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Li Chenying , Ostermann Thomas , Hardt Monika , Lüdtke Rainer , Broecker-Preuss Martina , Dobos Gustav , Michalsen Andreas
Published: January 2014

Background: Extended modified fasting is a frequently practiced tradition in Europe. It is claimed to improve the cardiometabolic state and physical and psychological well-being by an evolutionary co-developed adaptation response. We aimed to investigate the cardiometabolic and psychological effects of a 7-day fast and differences of these responses between patients with or without metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: We investigated 30 female subjects (49.0 ± 8.1 years, BMI 30.4 ± 6.7 kg/m2) with (n = 12) and without (n = 18) MetS. All subjects participated in a 7-day fast according to Buchinger with a nutritional energy intake of 300 kcal/day and stepwise reintroduction of solid food thereafter. Outcomes were assessed baseline and after fasting and included measures of metabolic and glucoregulatory control, adipokines as well as psychological well-being as assessed by Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Mean weight decreased from 85.4 ± 18.8 kg to 79.7 ± 18.2 kg accompanied by systolic/diastolic blood pressure (BP) reduction of -16.2 mm Hg (95% CI: -9.1; -23.3 mm Hg) and -6.0 mm Hg (95% CI: -1.8; -10.3 mm Hg), each p < 0.001 and p = 0.005. Fasting led to marked decreases of levels of LDL-cholesterol, leptin, and insulin and increases of levels of adiponectin, leptin receptors, and resistin. Fasting-induced mood enhancement was reflected by decreased anxiety, depression, fatigue, and improved vigor. Patients with MetS showed some greater changes in B P, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, adiponectin, leptin, and sleep quality. Fasting was well-tolerated. Conclusions: Our results point to marked beneficial responses to 7-day modified fasting and a potential role in the prevention of the MetS. Randomized trials with longer observation periods should test the clinical effectiveness of fasting in metabolic diseases.
A Calcium Prerinse Required to Form Calcium Fluoride in Plaque from a Sodium Fluoride Rinse
Authors: Vogel G.L. , Tenuta L.M.A. , Schumacher G.E. , Chow L.C.
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this study is to determine whether a calcium (Ca) prerinse used before a 228 µg/g (ppm) fluoride (F) rinse would induce the formation of ‘calcium fluoride-like' (CaF2-like) deposits in human dental plaque. Sixty minutes after the use of the Ca prerinse/F rinse, plaque samples were collected from 10 volunteers, homogenized, and split into 2 aliquots. The plaque mass from one aliquot was then extracted with a ‘plaque-like' solution that extracted all the CaF2-like deposits. The total F in both aliquots was then determined and compared. The results demonstrated that, as in previous studies, the Ca prerinse induced large increases in plaque fluid and total plaque F. However, unlike previous results without the Ca prerinse, 30% of the plaque F deposits were CaF2 or CaF2-like. Given that maintaining an elevated F concentration in the vicinity of a developing lesion may play an important role in the cariostatic effect of this ion, and the potential advantages of CaF2-like deposits as an F source, these results suggest that a Ca prerinse may increase the cariostatic effect of topical agents.
Cutaneous Application of Leukotriene B4 as an in vivo Model of Psoriasis-Like Skin Inflammation: An Immunohistological Study
Authors: Hendriks A.G.M. , Keijsers R.R.M.C. , Seyger M.M.B. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M. , van Erp P.E.J.
Published: January 2014

Background: Research has revealed new insights into the pathogenesis of psoriasis, leading to new therapeutic options. So far the order of changes in the pathogenesis of psoriasis is unclear. The responses to cutaneous leukotriene B4 (LTB4) application have been studied in the past as an in vivo model for inflammation. The aim of the present study is to find out the order of changes of key steps in inflammation, which all have been shown to be involved in mature psoriatic lesions. Objective: To study the dynamics of the consecutive stages of inflammation in challenged skin as a reflection of a psoriasis-like inflammatory response. Methods: We examined the dynamics of epidermal growth control and the key representatives of the innate and acquired immune system during the first 72 h after challenging the skin by LTB4 application. Results: Interleukin 17-positive (IL-17+) cells dominate the acute phase of inflammation, whereas T-Bet+ cells seem to increase gradually during the entire observation period. This indicates a more important role for IL-17 in the unstable phase of inflammation and a more prominent role for T-Bet+ cells within the chronic phase. Conclusion: The present model is highly reproducible and is useful in studying the dynamics of a psoriasis-like inflammation with respect to key components of immunity. It could provide a useful tool to study the immediate biological effects of new therapies like anti-IL-17 drugs on IL-17 production and effects on cutaneous inflammation and epidermal proliferation in vivo.
Well-Being among Italian Medical Oncologists: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Russo Antonio , De Luca Rossella , Cicero Giuseppe , Civilleri Alba , Bronte Giuseppe , Dispenza Joseph , Vieni Salvatore , Guarneri Rossella , Cascio Valentina Lo , Guadagna Francesca Paola , Foddai Elena , Pace Francesco
Published: January 2014

Background: Recently, attention has been focused on physicians' stress and quality-of-life improvement. Due to their relationship with patients, oncologists in particular are overloaded physically, emotionally and psychologically. Previous studies showed that training of communication skills improves the satisfaction and well-being of physicians and patients. Aims: Our research investigates the relationship between work stress and engagement and personal well-being in physicians working in Italian hospitals. Materials and Methods: 176 physicians were included. Doctors filled out self-report questionnaires to evaluate work stress and coping strategies, personal well-being, work engagement and two purpose-built scales to measure the degree of perceived organizational support and the level of specific training of social and relational skills. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data, as well as correlation analysis (Pearson's r), hierarchical regression analysis (enter step) and analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA). Result: Positive and significant correlations were found between variables. Moreover, physicians who obtained higher levels of specific training on social and relational skills reported lower levels of stress. Oncologists experienced greater stress than other physicians in terms of maladaptive coping and lack of additional training. Conclusions: The study suggests that physicians' well-being is mediated by professional aspects, such as social skills in relationships with patients.
ε-Caprolactone in Micro-Chambered Ceramic Beads - A New Carrier for Gentamicin
Authors: Draenert Miriam E. , Hickel Reinhard , Draenert Yvette
Published: January 2014

Purpose: The purpose of this preliminary and descriptive study was to evaluate a biodegradable drug delivery system in combination with an innovative ceramic implant. Methods: The delivery of gentamicin of standardized samples was measured in the laboratory using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography. Biocompatibility and biodegradation of the materials was investigated in an animal experiment in sheep up to 14 months. As carrier ε-caprolactone, 1:1 mixed with gentamicin, intruded into micro-chambered β-tricalcium-phosphate beads (MCB®) was studied. Results and Discussion: Gentamicin was released in calculable concentrations during the first 30 days. The release from ε-caprolactone was higher than that from polymethylmethacrylate and more predictable. The caprolactone carrier was reabsorbed by osteoclasts.
Self-Reported Head Injury and Risk of Late-Life Impairment and AD Pathology in an AD Center Cohort
Authors: Abner Erin L. , Nelson Peter T. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Browning Steven R. , Fardo David W. , Wan Lijie , Jicha Gregory A. , Cooper Gregory E. , Smith Charles D. , Caban-Holt Allison M. , Van Eldik Linda J. , Kryscio Richard J.
Published: January 2014

Aims: To evaluate the relationship between self-reported head injury and cognitive impairment, dementia, mortality, and Alzheimer's disease (AD)-type pathological changes. Methods: Clinical and neuropathological data from participants enrolled in a longitudinal study of aging and cognition (n = 649) were analyzed to assess the chronic effects of self-reported head injury. Results: The effect of self-reported head injury on the clinical state depended on the age at assessment: for a 1-year increase in age, the OR for the transition to clinical mild cognitive impairment (MCI) at the next visit for participants with a history of head injury was 1.21 and 1.34 for the transition from MCI to dementia. Without respect to age, head injury increased the odds of mortality (OR = 1.54). Moreover, it increased the odds of a pathological diagnosis of AD for men (OR = 1.47) but not women (OR = 1.18). Men with a head injury had higher mean amyloid plaque counts in the neocortex and entorhinal cortex than men without. Conclusions: Self-reported head injury is associated with earlier onset, increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, increased risk of mortality, and AD-type pathological changes.
Oral Intake of Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides Reduces Skin Wrinkles and Increases Dermal Matrix Synthesis
Authors: Proksch E. , Schunck M. , Zague V. , Segger D. , Degwert J. , Oesser S.
Published: January 2014

Dietary consumption of food supplements has been found to modulate skin functions and can therefore be useful in the treatment of skin aging. However, there is only a limited number of clinical studies supporting these claims. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, the effectiveness of the specific bioactive collagen peptide (BCP) VERISOL® on eye wrinkle formation and stimulation of procollagen I, elastin and fibrillin biosynthesis in the skin was assessed. A hundred and fourteen women aged 45-65 years were randomized to receive 2.5 g of BCP or placebo, once daily for 8 weeks, with 57 subjects being allocated to each treatment group. Skin wrinkles were objectively measured in all subjects, before starting the treatment, after 4 and 8 weeks as well as 4 weeks after the last intake (4-week regression phase). A subgroup was established for suction blister biopsies analyzing procollagen I, elastin and fibrillin at the beginning of the treatment and after 8 weeks of intake. The ingestion of the specific BCP used in this study promoted a statistically significant reduction of eye wrinkle volume (p < 0.05) in comparison to the placebo group after 4 and 8 weeks (20%) of intake. Moreover a positive long-lasting effect was observed 4 weeks after the last BCP administration (p < 0.05). Additionally, after 8 weeks of intake a statistically significantly higher content of procollagen type I (65%) and elastin (18%) in the BCP-treated volunteers compared to the placebo-treated patients was detected. For fibrillin, a 6% increase could be determined after BCP treatment compared to the placebo, but this effect failed to reach the level of statistical significance. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that the oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides (Verisol®) reduced skin wrinkles and had positive effects on dermal matrix synthesis.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Clinical Subtypes of Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Teng Edmond , Yamasaki Tritia R. , Tran Michelle , Hsiao Julia J. , Sultzer David L. , Mendez Mario F.
Published: January 2014

Background/Aims: Accurate diagnosis of sporadic early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) can be challenging, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers may assist in this process. We compared CSF indices between three EOAD subtypes: amnestic, logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA), and posterior cortical atrophy (PCA). Methods: We identified 21 amnestic EOAD, 20 LPA, and 12 PCA patients with CSF data, which included amyloid β1-42 (Aβ42), total tau (t-tau), phospho-tau181 (p-tau), and Aβ42/t-tau index (ATI) levels. Results: Aβ42 and ATI levels were similar across groups, but t-tau and p-tau levels were significantly lower in PCA patients. Conclusions: The Aβ42 and ATI data confirm the commonality of the Aβ pathology in EOAD. The lower tau indices in PCA patients may reflect differences in the distribution of neurofibrillary tangles or rates of neurodegeneration.
Relationship between Plaque pH and Different Caries-Associated Variables in a Group of Adolescents with Varying Caries Prevalence
Authors: Aranibar Quiroz E.M. , Alstad T. , Campus G. , Birkhed D. , Lingström P.
Published: January 2014

The pH response of the dental biofilm after a sugar challenge can be considered to mirror the acidogenic potential and thereby the caries risk of an individual. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the relationship between plaque pH and different caries variables in adolescents with varying caries prevalence. One hundred individuals, aged 14-15 years, were examined regarding different caries-related variables: (i) caries score (DSm, DSi, DSm + i, DTm), (ii) salivary secretion rate and buffer capacity, (iii) oral microflora of plaque and saliva, (iv) plaque amount, (v) plaque pH and (vi) dietary intake, oral hygiene habits and fluoride use. Plaque pH was assessed using the microtouch method before and after a 1-min mouthrinse with 10 ml 10% sucrose. Depending on the minimum pH, the participants were divided into three groups: low pH (≤5.3), medium pH (>5.3-6.3) and high pH (>6.3). Statistically significant differences between the three groups (p < 0.01) were found for initial caries (DSi) and combined manifest and initial caries (DSm + i). A statistically significant difference was also found in the log values for salivary lactobacilli (p = 0.02) within the three groups, and for the total number of bacteria in plaque (p = 0.04); for both variables, the low-pH group had the highest values. The only covariate significantly associated was the Cariogram score in the medium-pH group (p < 0.01) and the number of meals per day in the high-pH group (p = 0.02). To conclude, plaque pH measured by the microtouch method is a method that can be used for discriminating between individuals with varying caries prevalence.
Search and Insights into Novel Genetic Alterations Leading to Classical and Atypical Werner Syndrome
Authors: Oshima Junko , Hisama Fuki M.
Published: January 2014

Segmental progeroid syndromes are a group of disorders with multiple features resembling accelerated aging. Adult-onset Werner syndrome (WS) and childhood-onset Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome are the best known examples. The discovery of genes responsible for such syndromes has facilitated our understanding of the basic mechanisms of aging as well as the pathogenesis of other common, age-related diseases. Our International Registry of Werner Syndrome accesses progeroid pedigrees from all over the world, including those for whom we have ruled out a mutation at the WRN locus. Cases without WRN mutations are operationally categorized as ‘atypical WS' (AWS). In 2003, we identified LMNA mutations among a subset of AWS cases using a candidate gene approach. As of 2013, the Registry has 142 WS patients with WRN mutations, 11 AWS patients with LMNA mutations, and 49 AWS patients that have neither WRN nor LMNA mutations. Efforts are underway to identify the responsible genes for AWS with unknown genetic causes. While WS and AWS are rare disorders, the causative genes have been shown to have much wider implications for cancer, cardiovascular disease and the biology of aging. Remarkably, centenarian studies revealed WRN and LMNA polymorphic variants among those who have escaped various geriatric disorders.
Frank Intrabiliary Rupture in Liver Hydatidosis Located in the Hilar Plate: A Surgical Challenge
Authors: Ramia Jose M. , De-la-Plaza Roberto , Quiñónes Jose , Adel Farah , Ramiro C. , García-Parreño Jorge
Published: January 2014

Background: Frank intrabiliary rupture (FIR) is a severe complication that occurs in around 30% of patients with liver hydatidosis. When FIR is present, the contents of the cyst may pass into the common bile duct and cause a variety of complications. If the FIR is located in the hilar confluence, surgical repair is a challenge. Currently there are no data regarding its optimum treatment. Material and Methods: Between May 2007 and December 2012, we treated 59 patients with liver hydatidosis. Four patients, all women, with a mean age of 51.7 years, had hydatid cysts located between segments IVb and V and FIR affecting the hilar plate. In 3 cases, the initial clinical condition was obstructive jaundice. The fourth patient presented recurrence after having undergone two operations as a child. Results: In each patient a major hepatectomy was performed with hilar plate reconstruction (3 left and 1 right). Morbidity included mild biliary fistula (1 patient) and abdominal collection resolved by percutaneous drainage (1 patient). There was no mortality. During follow-up (47 months), no recurrences of the disease or biliary strictures were recorded. Conclusions: FIR is a severe complication of liver hydatidosis. When it is located in the hilar confluence, liver resection may be the best surgical option for definitive resolution of the problem.