bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random aggregates in newly produced platelet units are associated with platelet activation and release of the immunomodulatory factors sCD40L and RANTES
Authors: Sandgren Per , Meinke Stephan , Eckert Elias , Douagi Iyadh , Wikman Agneta , Höglund Petter
Published: July 2013

Background

In connection with platelet (PLT) production, random but transient aggregates sometimes form in the newly produced units. The underlying mechanisms as well as the impact on cellular level of this phenomenon are unknown. Hypothetically, random occurrence of aggregates may induce biochemical changes leading to PLT activation and release of immunomodulatory factors from the PLTs.

Study Design and Methods

PLTs were aliquoted and prepared with an automated system for PLT pooling (OrbiSac, Terumo BCT) for a three‐arm nonpaired study design (n = 8). Initially aggregated PLT units in SSP+ were selected by visual inspection and compared to unaffected PLT units stored in SSP+ or 100% plasma. Cellular, metabolic, and functional variables were analyzed, including the concentrations of RANTES, sCD40L, and sTWEAK in the bags during a 9‐day storage period.

Results

Isolated aggregated PLTs show signs of spontaneous activation and respond less efficiently to TRAP stimulation. RANTES, sCD40L, and sTWEAK accumulated in the various PLT units during storage but sCD40L and RANTES accumulated in the initially aggregated PLT units to higher concentrations than the reference units and PLTs stored in 100% plasma (p < 0.001). Over time, the levels of sTWEAK increased more in the plasma storage environment compared with PLT units stored in SSP+ (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our data indicate that random occurrence of aggregates may lead to higher activation level and increased release of immunomodulatory factors from the PLTs.
Computational Modeling of Non-Newtonian Blood Flow Through Stenosed Arteries in the Presence of Magnetic Field
Authors: Alshare Aiman , Tashtoush Bourhan , El-Khalil Hossam H.
Published: July 2013

Steady flow simulations of blood flow in an axisymmetric stenosed artery, subjected to a static magnetic field, are performed to investigate the influence of artery size, magnetic field strength, and non-Newtonian behavior on artery wall shear stress and pressure drop in the stenosed section. It is found that wall shear stress and pressure drop increase by decreasing artery size, assuming non-Newtonian fluid, and increasing magnetic field strength. In the computations, the shear thinning behavior of blood is accounted for by the Carreau–Yasuda model. Computational results are compared and found to be inline with available experimental data.
Biomechanical and Injury Response of Human Foot and Ankle Under Complex Loading
Authors: Shin Jaeho , Untaroiu Costin D.
Published: July 2013

Ankle and subtalar joint injuries of vehicle front seat occupants are frequently recorded during frontal and offset vehicle crashes. A few injury criteria for foot and ankle were proposed in the past; however, they addressed only certain injury mechanisms or impact loadings. The main goal of this study was to investigate numerically the tolerance of foot and ankle under complex loading which may appear during automotive crashes. A previously developed and preliminarily validated foot and leg finite element (FE) model of a 50th percentile male was employed in this study. The model was further validated against postmortem human subjects (PMHS) data in various loading conditions that generates the bony fractures and ligament failures in ankle and subtalar regions observed in traffic accidents. Then, the foot and leg model were subjected to complex loading simulated as combinations of axial, dorsiflexion, and inversion loadings. An injury surface was fitted through the points corresponding to the parameters recorded at the time of failure in the FE simulations. The compelling injury predictions of the injury surface in two crash simulations may recommend its application for interpreting the test data recorded by anthropometric test devices (ATD) during crash tests. It is believed that the methodology presented in this study may be appropriate for the development of injury criteria under complex loadings corresponding to other body regions as well.
Implementing Boundary Conditions in Simulations of Arterial Flows
Authors: Bokov P. , Flaud P. , Bensalah A. , Fullana J.-M. , Rossi M.
Published: July 2013

Computational hemodynamic models of the cardiovascular system are often limited to finite segments of the system and therefore need well-controlled inlet and outlet boundary conditions. Classical boundary conditions are measured total pressure or flow rate imposed at the inlet and impedances of RLR, RLC, or LR filters at the outlet. We present a new approach based on an unidirectional propagative approach (UPA) to model the inlet/outlet boundary conditions on the axisymmetric Navier–Stokes equations. This condition is equivalent to a nonreflecting boundary condition in a fluid–structure interaction model of an axisymmetric artery. First we compare the UPA to the best impedance filter (RLC). Second, we apply this approach to a physiological situation, i.e., the presence of a stented segment into a coronary artery. In that case a reflection index is defined which quantifies the amount of pressure waves reflected upon the singularity.
Different Fatigue Dynamics Under Statistically and Spectrally Similar Deterministic and Stochastic Excitations
Authors: Nguyen Son Hai , Falco Mike , Liu Ming , Chelidze David
Published: July 2013

Estimating and tracking crack growth dynamics is essential for fatigue failure prediction. A new experimental system—coupling structural and crack growth dynamics—was used to show fatigue damage accumulation is different under chaotic (i.e., deterministic) and stochastic (i.e., random) loading, even when both excitations possess the same spectral and statistical signatures. Furthermore, the conventional rain-flow counting method considerably overestimates damage in case of chaotic forcing. Important nonlinear loading characteristics, which can explain the observed discrepancies, are identified and suggested to be included as loading parameters in new macroscopic fatigue models.
mTORC1 Inhibition Is Required for Sensitivity to PI3K p110α Inhibitors in
PIK3CA
-Mutant Breast Cancer
Authors: Elkabets Moshe , Vora Sadhna , Juric Dejan , Morse Natasha , Mino-Kenudson Mari , Muranen Taru , Tao Jessica , Campos Ana Bosch , Rodon Jordi , Ibrahim Yasir H. , Serra Violeta , Rodrik-Outmezguine Vanessa , Hazra Saswati , Singh Sharat , Kim Phillip , Quadt Cornelia , Liu Manway , Huang Alan , Rosen Neal , Engelman Jeffrey A. , Scaltriti Maurizio , Baselga José
Published: July 2013

Persistent mTORC1 signaling correlates with resistance to PI3K p110α inhibition in breast cancer, which can be overcome by inhibiting mTORC1.
Epiploic appendagitis with acute appendicitis
Authors: Savage Louis , Gosling Jonathan , Suliman Ibnauf , Klein Martin
Published: July 2013

A 28-year-old woman presented to accident and emergency department with a 1-day history of right-sided abdominal pain. She was afebrile, and haemodynamically stable, and the initial diagnosis was acute appendicitis. A transvaginal ultrasound scan was performed and was suggestive of appendicitis. The patient failed to improve with conservative management, and a laparosocopic appendicectomy was performed the next day to remove an inflamed, non-perforated appendix. Pelvic laparoscopy was performed, which noted normal ovaries and uterus, as well as a hard, swollen, discoloured epiploic appendage of the sigmoid colon. A decision was made not to remove the inflamed epiploic appendage. Postoperatively the patient complained of persisting pain, which settled over 2 days with analgesia and antibiotics. This case is an extremely unusual case of epiploic appendagitis and acute appendicitis. It demonstrates the importance of pelvic laparoscopy in all females with presumed appendicitis, even in the presence of an initial pathology.
Cross section for photoionization of the positronium negative ion at the lowest Feshbach resonance
Authors: Mills Allen Paine
Published: July 2013

The photoionization cross section for the positronium (Ps) negative ion, Ps−, at the lowest n = 2 Feshbach resonance, estimated by neglecting the influences of the weakly bound outer electron, is σF = 1.4 × 10−12 cm2, about 3 × 103 times the existing lower limit calculated by Igarashi and co-workers (New J. Phys. 2, 17 (2000)). Although the estimated cross section is 200 times smaller than the analogous cross section for photoexcitation of the Ps Lyman-α transition, including the effect of the broad line width of the resonance shows it will be feasible to observe this resonance to obtain precision information about the three body Ps− system.
The distribution of sexual reproduction of the geographic parthenogenEucypris virens(Crustacea: Ostracoda) matches environmental gradients in a temporary lake
Authors: Schmit O. , Adolfsson S. , Vandekerkhove J. , Rueda J. , Bode S.N.S. , Rossetti G. , Michalakis Y. , Jokela J. , Martens K. , Mesquita-Joanes F.
Published: July 2013

Niche segregation may prevent competitive exclusion and promote local coexistence. This typically results in the occupation of different habitats. In the freshwater ostracod Eucypris virens (Jurine, 1820), the distribution of sexual and parthenogenetic populations in the temporary Lake Caracuel, central Spain, was not homogeneous. Parthenogens were found everywhere including the littoral, whereas sexuals were restricted to the centre. We investigated the hypothesis that spatial distribution responded to ecological differences. We studied the ecological significance of this segregation by linking environmental data to male presence, sexual fraction, ploidy, and genetic structure of our model organism in 12 ponds in the lake basin. Hydro-chemical and biological data indicated that the observed segregation is not only spatial but also ecological, with sexual E. virens occurring in ponds with shorter and probably more unpredictable hydroperiod. The correlations between environmental gradients and E. virens population structure suggest that sexual and parthenogenetic lineages are ecologically segregated. Sexual populations appeared restricted to sufficiently unpredictable environments, while parthenogens dominated environments with longer hydroperiods. Local coexistence seems mediated by spatial heterogeneity in habitat stability.
PREVALENCE OF PLAYING-RELATED MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDER (PRMSD) AMONG AMATEUR YOUNG GUITAR PLAYERS
Authors: Dhrithi M. Aill , Agrawal Parul Raj , Aju Kurian
Published: July 2013

Context: Since learning guitar and playing it requires repetitive use of muscles, very often with poor posture, guitarists are at an increased risk of nerve or musculoskeletal damage. As playing is the work of musicians, playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) are an appropriate music-specific derivative of work-related musculoskeletal disorder. Since learning guitar and playing it requires repetitive use of muscles, very often with poor posture, guitarists are at an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorder. Aim: To estimate the prevalence of playing related musculoskeletal disorder among non-professional guitar players. Methodology: it was a cross-sectional study done on non-professional guitar players in the age group of 18-30 years. Modified Nordic Questionnaire was used to screen for the symptoms and a self prepared validated questionnaire was used to take the details of playing related activities. Statistical analysis: Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The neck and lower back were reported to be most affected with symptoms of pain (29% each) among the selected population, followed by the wrist (17%) and shoulder (15.5%). The main contributing factor was found to be awkward sitting posture and non-use of back support while sitting.
IN VIVOCHARACTERIZATION OF THE MUSCLE VISCOELASTICITY IN PASSIVE AND ACTIVE CONDITIONS USING MULTIFREQUENCY MR ELASTOGRAPHY
Authors: Debernard Laëtitia , Leclerc Gwladys E. , Robert Ludovic , Charleux Fabrice , Bensamoun Sabine F.
Published: July 2013

This study aims to develop a viscoelastic database for muscles (VM: vastus medialis and Sr: sartorius) and subcutaneous adipose tissue with multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography (MMRE) coupled with rheological models. MMRE was performed on 13 subjects, at 70-90-110 Hz, to experimentally assess the elastic properties (μ) of passive and active (20% MVC) muscles. Then, numerical shear modulus (μ) and viscosity (η) were calculated using three rheological models (Voigt, Zener, Springpot). The elastic properties, obtained with the Springpot model, were closer to the experimental data for the different physiological tissues (μSpringpot_VM_Passive= 3.67 ± 0.71 kPa, μSpringpot_Sr= 6.89 ± 1.27 kPa, μSpringpot_Adipose Tissue= 1.61 ± 0.37 kPa) and at different muscle states (μSpringpot_VM_20%MVC= 11.29 ± 1.04 kPa). The viscosity parameter increased with the level of contraction (η_VM_ Passive_Springpot= 4.5 ± 1.64 Pa.s versus η_VM_20% MVC_Springpot= 12.14 ± 1.47 Pa.s ) and varied with the type of muscle. (η_VM_ Passive_Springpot= 4.5 ± 1.64 Pa.s versus η_Sr_Springpot= 6.63 ± 1.27 Pa.s). Similar viscosities were calculated for all tissues and rheological models. These first physiologically realistic viscoelastic parameters could be used by the physicians to better identify and monitor the effects of muscle disorder, and as a database for musculoskeletal model.
GIANT BAKER'S CYST AND PSEUDOTHROMBOPHLEBITIS IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATIC DISEASES: A NEW INSIGHT INTO OLD COMPLICATIONS
Authors: Saghafi Massoud , Azarian Azita
Published: July 2013

Background: The knee joint is the most common site for cyst formation. Popliteal cyst may become large and its compressive effects produce complications particularly in subacute and chronic rheumatic diseases. Methods: We evaluated predisposing factors, underlying diseases, complications, course and management of giant Baker's cysts in our patients with rheumatic diseases. Patients with popliteal cysts that extended down lower than inferior level of the popliteal fossa, confirmed by imaging techniques were included in this retrospective study. Results: A total of 40 patients had giant Baker's cysts during last 20 years. Rheumatoid arthritis was the most prevalent disease in 21 patients (52.5%). Our cases included a large series of patients with seronegative spondyloarthropathies complicated with giant Baker's cyst in 10 patients (25%). Localized bulging, pain and tenderness of the calf region were observed in 15 patients (37.5%). A total of 25 patients had symptoms and signs similar to thrombophlebitis (62.5%). Rupture of Baker's cyst was detected in 10 patients (25%). A patient had giant Baker's cyst concurrent with thrombophlebitis. Management was mostly conservative including rest and intra-articular depoglucocorticoid injection with satisfactory results. Conclusions: In this study, rheumatoid arthritis was the most prevalent underlying disease and the pseudothrombophlebitis syndrome was the most prevalent presenting feature of patients with giant Baker's cysts.
INFLUENCE OF THE CHEMICAL POTENTIAL ON THE CARRIER EFFECTIVE MASS IN THE THERMOELECTRIC SOLID SOLUTION Cu2Zn1-xFexGeSe4
Authors: ZEIER WOLFGANG G. , DAY TRISTAN , SCHECHTEL EUGEN , SNYDER G. JEFFREY , TREMEL WOLFGANG
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we describe the synthesis and characterization of the solid solution Cu 2 Zn 1-x Fe x GeSe 4. Electronic transport data have been analyzed using a single parabolic band model and have been compared to Cu 2+x Zn 1-x GeSe 4. The effective mass of these undoped, intrinsically hole conducting materials increases linearly with increasing carrier concentration, showing a non-parabolic transport behavior within the valence band.
SYNTHESIS, CRYSTAL GROWTH AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BIS DL-VALINE PICRATE SINGLE CRYSTAL FOR SECOND-ORDER NONLINEAR OPTICAL APPLICATIONS
Authors: SILAMBARASAN A. , KRISHNA KUMAR M. , SUDHAHAR S. , THIRUNAVUKKARASU A. , MOHAN KUMAR R. , UMARANI P. R.
Published: July 2013

An organic compound Bis DL-Valine picrate (BDLVP) was synthesized successfully and single crystal was grown by slow evaporation solution growth method. The presence of functional groups in the compound was identified by FTIR spectral analysis. Single crystal X-ray diffraction study revealed that the grown crystal belongs to P21/n space group of monoclinic crystal system. Powder X-ray diffraction pattern was recorded to know the crystalline perfection of the grown crystal. The reaction mechanism, thermal decomposition stages and thermal stability of the grown crystal were studied by using TG/DTA analysis. From the UV-visible spectral study, the electronic band gap energy (Eg) of the grown crystal was found to be 2.43 eV. The second harmonic generation (SHG) efficiency of grown crystal was found to be 1.3 times higher than KDP crystal by using Kurtz powder SHG technique. The microhardness property of the grown crystal was examined by Vicker's microhardness test.
Protein kinase C-induced activin A switches adrenocortical steroidogenesis to aldosterone by suppressing CYP17A1 expression
Authors: Hofland Johannes , Steenbergen Jacobie , Hofland Leo J. , van Koetsveld Peter M. , Eijken Marco , van Nederveen Francien H. , Kazemier Geert , de Herder Wouter W. , Feelders Richard A. , de Jong Frank H.
Published: July 2013

Functional zonation of the adrenal cortex is a consequence of the zone-specific expression of P450c17 ( CYP17A1) and its cofactors. Activin and inhibin peptides are differentially produced within the zones of the adrenal cortex and have been implicated in steroidogenic control. In this study, we investigated whether activin and inhibin can function as intermediates in functional zonation of the human adrenal cortex. Activin A suppressed CYP17A1 expression and P450c17 function in adrenocortical cell lines as well as in primary adrenal cell cultures. Inhibin βA-subunit mRNA and activin A protein levels were found to be increased up to 1,900-fold and 49-fold, respectively, after protein kinase C (PKC) stimulation through PMA or angiotensin II in H295R adrenocortical carcinoma cells. This was confirmed in HAC15 cells and for PMA in primary adrenal cell cultures. Both PMA and Ang II decreased CYP17A1 expression in the adrenocortical cell lines, whereas PMA concurrently suppressed CYP17A1 levels in the primary cultures. Inhibition of activin signaling during PKC stimulation through silencing of the inhibin βA-subunit or blocking of the activin type I receptor opposed the PMA-induced downregulation of CYP17A1 expression and P450c17 function. In contrast, PKA stimulation through adrenocorticotrophin or forskolin increased expression of the inhibin α-subunit and betaglycan, both of which are antagonists of activin action. These data indicate that activin A acts as a PKC-induced paracrine factor involved in the suppression of CYP17A1 in the zona glomerulosa and can thereby contribute to functional adrenocortical zonation.
Functional Ginger Extracts from Supercritical Fluid Carbon Dioxide Extraction via In Vitro and In Vivo Assays: Antioxidation, Antimicroorganism, and Mice Xenografts Models
Authors: Lee Chih-Chen , Chiou Li-Yu , Wang Jheng-Yang , Chou Sin-You , Lan John Chi-Wei , Huang Tsi-Shu , Huang Kuo-Chuan , Wang Hui-Min
Published: July 2013

Supercritical fluid carbon dioxide extraction technology was developed to gain the active components from a Taiwan native plant, Zingiber officinale (ginger). We studied the biological effects of ginger extracts via multiple assays and demonstrated the biofunctions in each platform. Investigations of ginger extracts indicated antioxidative properties in dose‐dependant manners on radical scavenging activities, reducing powers and metal chelating powers. We found that ginger extracts processed moderate scavenging values, middle metal chelating levels, and slight ferric reducing powers. The antibacterial susceptibility of ginger extracts on Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sobrinus, S. mutans, and Escherichia coli was determined with the broth microdilution method technique. The ginger extracts had operative antimicroorganism potentials against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. We further discovered the strong inhibitions of ginger extracts on lethal carcinogenic melanoma through in vivo xenograft model. To sum up, the data confirmed the possible applications as medical cosmetology agents, pharmaceutical antibiotics, and food supplements.
The Effect of Prophylactic Dexmedetomidine on Hemodynamic Disturbances to Double-Lumen Endotracheal Intubation: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Pipanmekaporn Tanyong , Punjasawadwong Yodying , Charuluxananan Somrat , Lapisatepun Worawut , Bunburaphong Pavena
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of dexmedetomidine on hemodynamic responses to DLT intubation compared to placebo and to assess the adverse effects related to dexmedetomidine. Sixty patients were randomly allocated to receive 0.7 μg/kg dexmedetomidine (n=30) or normal saline (n=30) 10 minutes before general anesthesia. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and rate pressure product (RPP) between groups were recorded. During intubation and 10 minutes afterward (T1-T10), the mean SBP, DBP, MAP, HR, and RPP in the control group were significantly higher than those in the dexmedetomidine group throughout the study period except at T1. The mean differences of SBP, DBP, MAP, HR, and RPP were significantly higher in the control group, with the value of 15.2 mmHg, 10.5 mmHg, 14 mmHg, 10.5 beats per minute, and 2,462.8 mmHg min−1. Four patients in the dexmedetomidine group and 1 patient in the control group developed hypotension, while 2 patients in the dexmedetomidine group had bradycardia. Prophylactic dexmedetomidine can attenuate the hemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and DLT intubation with minimal adverse effects. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT01289769.
The Applicability of Behaviour Change in Intervention Programmes Targeted at Ending Female Genital Mutilation in the EU: Integrating Social Cognitive and Community Level Approaches
Authors: Brown Katherine , Beecham David , Barrett Hazel
Published: July 2013

With increased migration, female genital mutilation (FGM) also referred to as female circumcision or female genital cutting is no longer restricted to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The European Parliament estimates that up to half a million women living in the EU have been subjected to FGM, with a further 180,000 at risk. Aware of the limited success of campaigns addressing FGM, the World Health Organization recommended a behavioural change approach be implemented in order to end FGM. To date, however, little progress has been made in adopting a behaviour change approach in strategies aimed at ending FGM. Based on research undertaken as part of the EU’s Daphne III programme, which researched FGM intervention programmes linked to African communities in the EU (REPLACE), this paper argues that behaviour change has not been implemented due to a lack of understanding relating to the application of the two broad categories of behaviour change approach: individualistic decision-theoretic and community-change game-theoretic approaches, and how they may be integrated to aid our understanding and the development of future intervention strategies. We therefore discuss how these can be integrated and implemented using community-based participatory action research methods with affected communities.
Research on the Production Scheduling Optimization for Virtual Enterprises
Authors: Huang Min , Huang Ruixian , Sun Bo , Li Linrong
Published: July 2013

Production scheduling is a rather difficult problem in virtual enterprises (VE) for the tasks of production which would be executed by some distributed and independent members. Factors such as the timing constraints of task and ability restrictions of the members are considered comprehensibly to solve the global scheduling optimization problem. This paper establishes a partner selection model based on an improved ant colony algorithm at first, then presents a production scheduling framework with two layers as global scheduling and local scheduling for virtual enterprise, and gives a global scheduling mathematical model with the smallest total production time based on it. An improved genetic algorithm is proposed in the model to solve the time complexity of virtual enterprise production scheduling. The presented experimental results validate the optimization of the model and the efficiency of the algorithm.
Accurate Counting Bloom Filters for Large-Scale Data Processing
Authors: Li Wei , Huang Kun , Zhang Dafang , Qin Zheng
Published: July 2013

Bloom filters are space-efficient randomized data structures for fast membership queries, allowing false positives. Counting Bloom Filters (CBFs) perform the same operations on dynamic sets that can be updated via insertions and deletions. CBFs have been extensively used in MapReduce to accelerate large-scale data processing on large clusters by reducing the volume of datasets. The false positive probability of CBF should be made as low as possible for filtering out more redundant datasets. In this paper, we propose a multilevel optimization approach to building an Accurate Counting Bloom Filter (ACBF) for reducing the false positive probability. ACBF is constructed by partitioning the counter vector into multiple levels. We propose an optimized ACBF by maximizing the first level size, in order to minimize the false positive probability while maintaining the same functionality as CBF. Simulation results show that the optimized ACBF reduces the false positive probability by up to 98.4% at the same memory consumption compared to CBF. We also implement ACBFs in MapReduce to speed up the reduce-side join. Experiments on realistic datasets show that ACBF reduces the false positive probability by 72.3% as well as the map outputs by 33.9% and improves the join execution times by 20% compared to CBF.
Occurrence of Fatal and Nonfatal Adverse Outcomes after Heart Transplantation in Patients with Pretransplant Noncytotoxic HLA Antibodies
Authors: Potena Luciano , Bontadini Andrea , Iannelli Sandra , Fruet Fiorenza , Leone Ornella , Barberini Francesco , Borgese Laura , Manfredini Valentina , Masetti Marco , Magnani Gaia , Fallani Francesco , Grigioni Francesco , Branzi Angelo
Published: July 2013

HLA antibodies (HLA ab) in transplant candidates have been associated with poor outcome. However, clinical relevance of noncytotoxic antibodies after heart transplant (HT) is controversial. By using a Luminex-based HLA screening, we retested pretransplant sera from HT recipients testing negative for cytotoxic HLA ab and for prospective crossmatch. Out of the 173 consecutive patients assayed (52±13y; 16% females; 47% ischemic etiology), 32 (18%) showed pretransplant HLA ab, and 12 (7%) tested positive against both class I and class II HLA. Recipients with any HLA ab had poorer survival than those without (65±9versus82±3%;P=0.02), accounting for a doubled independent mortality risk (P=0.04). In addition, HLA-ab detection was associated with increased prevalence of early graft failure (35 versus 15%;P=0.05) and late cellular rejection (29 versus 11%;P=0.03). Of the subgroup of 37 patients suspected for antibody mediated rejection (AMR), the 9 with pretransplant HLA ab were more likely to display pathological AMR grade 2 (P=0.04). By an inexpensive, luminex-based, HLA-screening assay, we were able to detect non-cytotoxic HLA ab predicting fatal and nonfatal adverse outcomes after heart transplant. Allocation strategies and desensitization protocols need to be developed and prospectively tested in these patients.
Deqi Sensation in Placebo Acupuncture: A Crossover Study on Chinese Medicine Students
Authors: Liang Zhao-hui , Xie Chang-cai , Li Zi-ping , Zhu Xiao-ping , Lu Ai-ping , Fu Wen-bin
Published: July 2013

Objective. To evaluate the similarity of deqi sensation of real and noninvasive placebo acupuncture in healthy people with knowledge of Chinese medicine.Methods. In a crossover design, volunteers recruited from Chinese medicine college students were randomized to two groups to receive two phases of intervention with a one-week washout interval. In Group A, the participants were firstly treated by real acupuncture and then by sham needle, and the treatment sequence was reversed in Group B. VAS for pain intensity and deqi sensation was evaluated as outcomes.Results. Sixty-three volunteers were recruited and 60 were included and finished the study. In Group A, VAS was higher in Phase I than in Phase II (P=0.017). Only treatment methods were selected as factor to VAS difference (P=0.046) in ANOVA test. More positive deqi was reported in Group A in Phase I when treated by real acupuncture (P=0.039), but the difference was not significant in Phase II (P=0.301).Conclusion. The noninvasive placebo acupuncture device can effetely simulate the deqi sensation as real acupuncture, but it is less likely to evoke the active effect of deqi in real practice. This trial is registered with Chinese Clinical Trial Registry:ChiCTR-ORC-09000505.
Comparison of Various Generations of Superporous Hydrogels Based on Chitosan-Acrylamide and In Vitro Drug Release
Authors: Bhalla Shikha , Nagpal Manju
Published: July 2013

The aim of the current research work was to prepare and evaluate different generations of superporous hydrogels (SPH) of acrylamide and chitosan using gas blowing technique and evaluate them for swelling, mechanical properties, FTIR, SEM, XRD, and in vitro drug release. The ingredients used were acrylamide, N,N′-methylene bisacrylamide, chitosan, Pluronic F127, ammonium per sulfate-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylenediamine, and sodium bicarbonate. All ingredients were mixed sequentially with thorough stirring. The effect of different drying conditions on properties of SPH was also evaluated. Ethanol treated batched showed maximum swelling properties due to uniform pores as indicated in SEM studies. Equilibrium swelling time was less than 10 min in all batches. Freeze drying led to lowering of density which is also supported by porosity and void fraction data. Maximum mechanical strength was found in superporous hydrogel interpenetrating networks due to crosslinked polymeric network. 70% drug was released at the end of 2 h, and further the release was sustained till the end of 24 h. In vitro drug release kinetics showed that drug release occurs by diffusion and follows Super Case II transport indicating that mechanism of drug release is not clear. Superporous hydrogel interpenetrating networks can be successfully used as sustained release gastroretentive devices.
Synthesis and Characterization of Polyphosphazenes Modified with Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate and Lactic Acid
Authors: Carolina Martínez Ceballos Evelyn , Vera Graziano Ricardo , Martínez Barrera Gonzalo , Olea Mejía Oscar
Published: July 2013

Poly(dichlorophosphazene) was prepared by melt ring-opening polymerization of the hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene. Poly[bis(2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate)-phosphazene] and poly[(2-hydroxyethyl-methacrylate)-graft-poly(lactic-acid)-phosphazene] were obtained by nucleophilic condensation reactions at different concentrations of the substituents. The properties of the synthesized copolymers were assessed by FTIR,1H-NMR and31P-NMR, thermal analysis (DSC-TGA), and electron microscopy (SEM). The copolymers have a block structure and show twoTg's below room temperature. They are stable up to a temperature of 100°C. The type of the substituents attached to the PZ backbone determines the morphology of the polymers.
A Review on Nanomaterial Dispersion, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Carbon Nanotube and Nanofiber Reinforced Cementitious Composites
Authors: Parveen Shama , Rana Sohel , Fangueiro Raul
Published: July 2013

Excellent mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and nanofibers (CNFs) have motivated the development of advanced nanocomposites with outstanding and multifunctional properties. After achieving a considerable success in utilizing these unique materials in various polymeric matrices, recently tremendous interest is also being noticed on developing CNT and CNF reinforced cement‐based composites. However, the problems related to nanomaterial dispersion also exist in case of cementitious composites, impairing successful transfer of nanomaterials′ properties into the composites. Performance of cementitious composites also depends on their microstructure which is again strongly influenced by the presence of nanomaterials. In this context, the present paper reports a critical review of recent literature on the various strategies for dispersing CNTs and CNFs within cementitious matrices and the microstructure and mechanical properties of resulting nanocomposites.
Bilateral Lower Cervical Bifurcation of the Common Carotid Artery
Authors: Uzun Lokman , Kokten Numan , Kilicaslan Adem , Tasel Bulent , Kalcioglu M. Tayyar , Tekin Muhammet
Published: July 2013

Lower cervical bifurcation of cervical common carotid artery (CCA) is a very rarely encountered anatomic variation. Knowing the normal vascular anatomy and also its anomalies is important in preventing the vascular complications. Ill-defined vascular anomalies may lead to massive hemorrhage and eventually death during head and neck surgery. Imaging of the neck by magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI), CT, or angiography is helpful for diagnosis. We present a 62-year-old male patient diagnosed with laryngeal carcinoma who had been treated. His MRI revealed bilateral low-level bifurcation of the cervical common carotid arteries as well as tumor localization and its boundaries. Total laryngectomy and right selective neck dissection was performed to the patient with the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. During the neck dissection, carotid bifurcation was detected in common border of Level 3 and Level 4 of the neck.
Electroacupuncture and Rosiglitazone Combined Therapy as a Means of Treating Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lin Rong-Tsung , Pai Huei-Chin , Lee Yu-Chen , Tzeng Chung-Yuh , Chang Chin-Hsien , Hung Pei-Hsiu , Chen Ying-I , Hsu Tai-Hao , Tsai Chin-Chun , Lin Jaung-Geng , Chang Shih-Liang
Published: July 2013

Aims.To evaluate the efficacy of rosiglitazone (TZD) and electroacupuncture (EA) combined therapy as a treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients by randomized single-blind placebo controlled clinical trial.Methods.A total of 31 newly diagnostic T2DM patients, who fulfilled the study's eligibility criteria, were recruited. The individuals were randomly assigned into two groups, the control group (TZD,N=15) and the experimental group (TZD + EA,N=16). Changes in their plasma free fatty acid (FFA), glucose, and insulin levels, together with their homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) indices, were statistically compared before and after treatment. Hypoglycemic activity (%) was also compared between these two groups.Results.There was no significant difference in hypoglycemic activity between the TZD and TZD + EA group. The effectiveness of the combined therapy seems to derive from an improvement in insulin resistance and a significant lowering of the secreted insulin rather than the effect of TZD alone on T2DM. The combined treatment had no significant adverse effects. A lower plasma FFA concentration is likely to be the mechanism that causes this effect.Conclusion.This combined therapy seems to suppress endogenous insulin secretion by improving insulin resistance via a mechanism involving a reduction in plasma FFA. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.govNCT01577095.
Plasma protein S residues 37–50 mediate its binding to factor Va and inhibition of blood coagulation
Authors: Mesters Rolf , Fernández José , Hackeng Tilman , Nakasone Ryon , Griffin John , Heeb Mary
Published: July 2013

Protein S (PS) is an anticoagulant plasma protein whose deficiency is associated with increased risk of venous thrombosis. PS directly inhibits thrombin generation by the blood coagulation pathways by several mechanisms, including by binding coagulation factors (F) Va and Xa. To identify PS sequences that mediate inhibition of FVa activity, antibodies and synthetic peptides based on PS sequence were prepared and employed in plasma coagulation assays, purified component prothrombinase assays, binding assays, and immunoblots. In the absence of activated protein C, monoclonal antibody (Mab) S4 shortened FXa-induced clotting in normal plasma but not in PS-depleted plasma. Mab S4 also blocked PS inhibition of FVa-dependent prothrombinase activity in purified component assays in the absence or presence of phospholipids and inhibited binding of PS to immobilised FVa. Epitope mapping identified N-terminal region residues 37–67 of PS as this antibody’s epitope. A peptide representing PS residues 37–50 inhibited FVa-dependent prothrombinase activity in a noncompetitive manner, with 50% inhibition observed at 11 µM peptide, whereas a peptide with a D-amino acid sequence of 37–50 was ineffective. FVa, but not FXa, bound specifically to the immobilised peptide representing residues 37–50, and the peptide inhibited binding of FVa to immobilised PS. These data implicate PS residues 37–50 as a binding site for FVa that mediates, at least in part, the direct inhibition of FVa-dependent procoagulant activity by PS.
Spike-Timing-Dependent Construction
Authors: Lightheart Toby , Grainger Steven , Lu Tien-Fu
Published: July 2013

Spike-timing-dependent construction (STDC) is the production of new spiking neurons and connections in a simulated neural network in response to neuron activity. Following the discovery of spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), significant effort has gone into the modeling and simulation of adaptation in spiking neural networks (SNNs). Limitations in computational power imposed by network topology, however, constrain learning capabilities through connection weight modification alone. Constructive algorithms produce new neurons and connections, allowing automatic structural responses for applications of unknown complexity and nonstationary solutions. A conceptual analogy is developed and extended to theoretical conditions for modeling synaptic plasticity as network construction. Generalizing past constructive algorithms, we propose a framework for the design of novel constructive SNNs and demonstrate its application in the development of simulations for the validation of developed theory. Potential directions of future research and applications of STDC for biological modeling and machine learning are also discussed.
The identity of Calamagrostis emodensis var. breviseta (Poaceae, Agrostidinae)
Authors: PASZKO BEATA
Published: July 2013

This paper presents a re-evaluation of the taxonomic and morphological relationships of Calamagrostis emodensis var. breviseta. Examination of morphological characters has shown that Calamagrostis emodensis var. breviseta was incorrectly linked with C. emodensis at the time of description, and indicates that it is conspecific with C. macrolepis. It is here reduced to a synonym of the latter species.
A new species group and species of the genus Pavania (Acari: Dolichocybidae), phoretic on Onthophagus vitulus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) from Iran
Authors: LOGHMANI AMIR , HAJIQANBAR HAMIDREZA , TALEBI ALI ASGHAR
Published: July 2013

Pavania setiformis Loghmani & Hajiqanbar sp. nov. (Acari: Heterostigmatina: Dolichocybidae) associated with Onthophagus (Palaeonthophagus) vitulus (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is described from northeastern Iran. This remarkable new species represents a new setiformis species group characterized by seta-like sc1, instead of capitate trichobothria. The genus Pavania is thus divided into three species groups: the fusiformis group (15 species), the gymnopleuri group (3 species) and the setiformis group (1 species). We also found P. sabzevarensis Hajiqanbar & Khaustov, 2010 and P. onthophagi Hajiqanbar & Khaustov, 2010 phoretic on Gymnopleurus mopsus (Pallas) and Onthophagus (Euonthophagus) amyntas alces (Fabricius), respectively.
Description of an endemic and endangered new Sympetrum species (Odonata: Libellulidae) from the subtropical area of Taiwan
Authors: TANG HSIN-CHIEH , YEH WEN-CHI , CHEN SZU-LUNG
Published: July 2013

Sympetrum nantouensis sp. nov. collected from Nantou, Central Taiwan, is described and figured, with remarks on its ecology and oviposition behaviour. Judging from penile structure, it is considered to belong to the infuscatum-group, whose members are defined here by penile characters. In the infuscatum-group, S. nantouensis is most similar to S. risi Bartenev, but they are probably not very closely related to each other. Sympetrum nantouensis differs from S. risi mainly in having beak-like cerci, well-lineated black and pale yellow pterothorax, and penile 4th segment with longer and apically upcurved cornua. This new species is distinct among its congeners in view of both biogeography and morphology because of its confined and peripheral existence and the odd shape of its cerci. All type specimens will be deposited at the Insect Collection of TFRI.
The Influence of Loop Current Position on Winter Sea Surface Temperatures in the Florida Straits
Authors: Rudzin Johna E. , Morey Steven L. , Bourassa Mark A. , Smith Shawn R.
Published: July 2013

Influences of the Gulf of Mexico's Loop Current (LC) position on the sea surface temperature (SST) in the Florida Straits (FS) during the winter season are investigated. Satellite-derived SST data are analyzed on the basis of the LC configuration (mature or immature) as determined by satellite altimetry analyses. Cumulative distributions of FS SSTs for both LC phases during the months of January and February show greater likelihood of cooler SSTs in the FS during a mature LC than during an immature LC. This work suggests that differing transit times of LC water parcels during mature and immature phases result in differences in heat loss of the LC near-surface water. This may contribute to the observed SST differences in FS during mature and immature LC phases via temperature advection.
CCN and Vertical Velocity Influences on Droplet Concentrations and Supersaturations in Clean and Polluted Stratus Clouds
Authors: Hudson James G. , Noble Stephen
Published: July 2013

Cloud microphysics and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) measurements from two marine stratus cloud projects are presented and analyzed. Results show that the increase of cloud droplet concentrations Nc with CCN concentrations NCCN rolls off for NCCN at 1% supersaturation (S)N1% above 400 cm−3. Moreover, at such high concentrations Nc was not so well correlated with NCCN but tended to be more closely related to vertical velocity W or variations of W (σw). This changeover from predominate Nc dependence on NCCN to Nc dependence on W or σw is due to the higher slope k of CCN spectra at lower S, which is made more relevant by the lower cloud S that is forced by higher NCCN. Higher k makes greater influence of W or σw variations than NCCN variations on Nc. This changeover at high NCCN thus seems to limit the indirect aerosol effect (IAE).

On the other hand, in clean-air stratus cloud S often exceeded 1% and decreased to slightly less than 0.1% in polluted conditions. This means that smaller CCN [those with higher critical S (Sc)], which are generally more numerous than larger CCN (lower Sc), are capable of producing stratus cloud droplets, especially when they are advected into clean marine air masses where they can induce IAE. Positive correlations between turbulence σw and NCCN are attributed to greater differential latent heat exchange of smaller more numerous cloud droplets that evaporate more readily. Such apparent CCN influences on cloud dynamics tend to support trends that oppose conventional IAE, that is, less rather than greater cloudiness in polluted environments.
The ENSO-Related West Pacific Sea Surface Temperature Gradient
Authors: Hoell Andrew , Funk Chris
Published: July 2013

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events are accompanied by an anomalous zonal sea surface temperature (SST) gradient over the west Pacific Ocean, defined here as the west Pacific SST gradient (WPG). The WPG is defined as the standardized difference between area-averaged SST over the central Pacific Ocean (Niño-4 region) and west Pacific Ocean (0°–10°N, 130°–150°E). While the direction of the WPG follows ENSO cycles, the magnitude of the gradient varies considerably between individual El Niño and La Niña events. In this study, El Niño and La Niña events are grouped according to the magnitude of the WPG, and tropical SST, circulations, and precipitation are examined for the period 1948–2011. Until the 1980s the WPG showed little trend as the west and central Pacific warmed at similar rates; however, the west Pacific has recently warmed faster than the central Pacific, which has resulted in an increased WPG during La Niña events.

The temporal evolution and distribution of tropical Pacific SST as well as the near-surface tropical Pacific zonal wind, divergence, and vertical velocity are considerably different during ENSO events partitioned according to the strength of the WPG. Modifications to the tropical circulation, resulting in changes to Indo– west Pacific precipitation, are linked to strong and consistent circulation and precipitation modifications throughout the Northern Hemisphere during winter.
Eddy-Induced Modulation of Turbulent Dissipation over Rough Topography in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Brearley J. Alexander , Sheen Katy L. , Naveira Garabato Alberto C. , Smeed David A. , Waterman Stephanie
Published: July 2013

Mesoscale eddies are universal features of the ocean circulation, yet the processes by which their energy is dissipated remain poorly understood. One hypothesis argues that the interaction of strong geostrophic flows with rough bottom topography effects an energy transfer between eddies and internal waves, with the breaking of these waves causing locally elevated dissipation focused near the sea floor. This study uses hydrographic and velocity data from a 1-yr mooring cluster deployment in the Southern Ocean to test this hypothesis. The moorings were located over a small (~10 km) topographic obstacle to the east of Drake Passage in a region of high eddy kinetic energy, and one was equipped with an ADCP at 2800-m depth from which internal wave shear variance and dissipation rates were calculated. Examination of the ADCP time series revealed a predominance of upward-propagating internal wave energy and a significant correlation (r = 0.45) between shear variance levels and subinertial near-bottom current speeds. Periods of strong near-bottom flow coincided with increased convergence of eddy-induced interfacial form stress in the bottom 1500 m. Predictions of internal wave energy radiation were made from theory using measured near-bottom current speeds, and the mean value of wave radiation (5.3 mW m−2) was sufficient to support the dissipated power calculated from the ADCP. A significant temporal correlation was also observed between radiated and dissipated power. Given the ubiquity of strong eddy flows and rough topography in the Southern Ocean, the transfer from eddy to internal wave energy is likely to be an important term in closing the ocean energy budget.
Not a Benign Market: An Analysis of Food Price Inflation and Volatility
Authors: Chandrasekhar C.P.
Published: July 2013

Food inflation in India for the past few years has been at a historic high. However, the evidence suggests that higher food prices, while adversely affecting those who spend most of their income on food, have not necessarily been helpful to smallholder farmers. The volatility of food prices at the wholesale and retail levels has also remained high, creating uncertainties for consumers and producers. This article reviews recent trends in food prices in India, examines the sources of food price increases and volatility, separates the relative roles of demand–supply imbalances, cost-push factors and speculation and draws out some of the implications of those factors.