bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of a “wide‐range” quantitative nested real‐time PCR assay for varicella zoster virus myelitis
Authors: Takahashi Teruyuki , Tamura Masato , Takasu Toshiaki 
Published: August 2013

AbstractMyelitis is one of the rarest neurological complications of varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection. In this study, the authors remodeled the “wide‐range” quantitative nested real‐time (QNRT) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to quantitatively detect a small amount of VZV‐DNA in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). For use as a specific internal control “calibrator,” an original mutation‐VZV (MZ) plasmid was developed. The initial copy number of VZV‐DNA in CSF specimens was measured by the amplification rate of the MZ‐plasmid. For 17 consecutive CSF specimens collected from three elderly patients with VZV myelitis, the diagnostic value of the wide‐range QNRT‐PCR assay was evaluated and compared with other conventional PCR assays and enzyme immunoassay (EIA). The MZ‐plasmid demonstrated statistically uniform amplifications (F = 1.016) against a wide range (1–100,000) of copy numbers of mimic VZV‐DNA. The wide‐range QNRT‐PCR assay quantitatively and rapidly (within 48 hr) detected 5,863, 3,052, 958, and 6,721 copies/ml of VZV‐DNA in the CSF specimens collected from all patients in the acute phase. Additionally, there was a significant difference (*P = 0.023) in the copy number of VZV‐DNA between before and after acyclovir treatment. Other conventional single PCR assays all revealed negative results, but were nevertheless time‐consuming (7 days). The IgG EIA‐value for VZV was continually elevated throughout the clinical course of all patients. The MZ‐plasmid was thus regarded as an appropriate “calibrator” in the wide‐range QNRT‐PCR assay. This assay is a novel, rapid, accurate, quantitative, and highly sensitive technique, and will contribute as a reliable and useful clinical examination for the rapid diagnosis of VZV infection to central nervous system. J Med. Virol. 85:2042–2055, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
VHDL‐AMS in switched‐current analog filter pair design based on a gyrator‐capacitor prototype circuit
Authors: Handkiewicz Andrzej , Katarzyński Piotr , Szczęsny Szymon , Naumowicz Mariusz , Melosik Michał , Śniatała Paweł 
Published: August 2013

SUMMARYThis paper presents an approach to a low‐sensitivity design strategy for switched‐current (SI) filter pairs based on a gyrator‐capacitor prototype circuit. On the basis of a prototype filter, an SI counterpart circuit is obtained. Tools for SI filter design automation have been developed, which make a hardware description language ‐ analog‐mixed signal synthesization for the chosen kind of circuit. The obtained SI filter is better than the filter obtained using LC ladder structures with respect to very‐large‐scale integration complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor chip area and power consumption. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new climatology for Southern Hemisphere blockings in the winter and the combined effect of ENSO and SAM phases
Authors: Oliveira Flavio N. M. , Carvalho Leila M. V. , Ambrizzi Tercio 
Published: August 2013

ABSTRACTThis study presents 53‐year climatology of Southern Hemisphere (SH) blockings in the winter using daily 500‐hPa geopotential height data from NCEP–NCAR reanalysis. The variability of SH blocking events and their relationships with combined phases of El Niño/southern oscillation (ENSO) and the southern annular mode (SAM) are examined. Conventional indices were revised and a slightly modified index is proposed to detect latitudinal variations of SH blockings. The South Pacific region is examined in detail. There is no statistically significant long‐term trend in the SH blockings. During moderate El Niño, the preferred location SH blocking is observed over East Pacific, and we show that the blocking frequency increases during negative SAM phases. During moderate La Niña the SH blockings are significantly suppressed over Central Pacific, with lower blocking frequency during positive SAM phases. These results indicate that the daily variability of SH blocking is strongly modulated by both ENSO and SAM phases.
How robust are Holocene treeline simulations? A model–data comparison in the European Arctic treeline region
Authors: FANG KEYAN , MORRIS JESSE L. , SALONEN J. SAKARI , MILLER PAUL A. , RENSSEN HANS , SYKES MARTIN T. , SEPPÄ HEIKKI 
Published: August 2013

ABSTRACTTreeline encroachments and retractions can provide global‐scale feedbacks to the climate system, and treeline dynamics are therefore of great relevance for understanding global climate variability. To assess the accuracy of long‐term treeline simulations based on the generalized dynamic vegetation model LPJ‐GUESS, we simulate European Arctic treeline dynamics over the past 9000 years and compare the results with fossil‐based reconstructions. The results show that while LPJ‐GUESS is limited in its ability to capture species‐level current treeline patterns and past dynamics, it is generally able to realistically simulate the Holocene coniferous treeline changes with a cutoff biomass carbon of 2 C kg m−2. The model captures the northward expansion of the boreal forest during the mid Holocene and correctly simulates a treeline retreat in response to climate cooling during the last 3000 years. However, there are data–simulation disagreements particularly during the early Holocene, which mainly result from the differences between the two palaeoclimate model scenarios used to drive the simulations. We suggest that the spatial accuracy of the model could be improved by incorporating the influence of topographic features, the extent of the Arctic peatlands, the tree species life‐history characteristics, microclimate and other ecological factors. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Nanocomposite of Polyaniline/Inorganic Nanotubes
Authors: Voldman Alla , Zbaida David , Cohen Hagai , Leitus Gregory , Tenne Reshef 
Published: August 2013

Polymer‐inorganic nanoparticle composites are an area of great research interest. Inorganic fullerene‐like (IF) structures and inorganic nanotubes (INT) are used for producing composite materials with specific goals of reinforcement of the polymer and ameliorating its thermal stability. Here, a composite material containing INT and conducting polymer (polyaniline (PANI)) is synthesized by an in situ oxidative polymerization of the mono­mer in the presence of WS2 nanotubes. The structure and electrical behavior of PANI/INT composite is studied and compared with the results of pristine PANI (synthesized under the same conditions without INT). Most remarkably, INT‐WS2 are found to play the role of an active doping agent. The highest conductivity is obtained for 0.85 wt% (ca. 0.06 at%) nanotubes content, two orders of magnitude higher than that of pristine PANI. This work suggests a new approach to control the host–guest interaction in the polymer nanocomposite via (Lewis) acid–base equilibrium.
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Novel Highly Efficient Organophotocatalysts: Truxene–Acridine‐1,8‐diones as Photoinitiators of Polymerization
Authors: Tehfe Mohamad‐Ali , Dumur Frédéric , Contal Emmanuel , Graff Bernadette , Gigmes Didier , Fouassier Jean‐Pierre , Lalevée Jacques 
Published: August 2013

Truxene–acridine‐1,8‐dione derivatives (Tr_AD) are proposed as new photoinitiators of polymerization under very soft irradiation (by a household halogen lamp), as well as laser‐diode exposure at 405 nm. They exhibit a strong absorption around 380 nm. The Tr_AD/diphenyl iodonium salt/9‐vinylcarbazole combination is able to promote the ring‐opening polymerization of an epoxide, whereas the Tr_AD/alkyl halide/amine system is very efficient in initiating the radical photopolymerization of an acrylate. Excellent polymerization profiles are obtained. Acrylate/epoxide blends are also easily polymerized. These Tr_ADs in the three‐component systems behave as photocatalysts according to oxidative cycles. The mechanisms are discussed for the different multicomponent initiating systems.
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Radar reflectivity and wind fields analysis by using two X‐band Doppler radars at Okinawa, Japan from 11 to 12 June 2007
Authors: Jang Sang‐Min , Lee Dong‐In , Jeong Jong‐Hoon , Park Sung‐Hwa , Shimizu Shingo , Uyeda Hiroshi , Suh Young‐Sang 
Published: August 2013

ABSTRACTDuring 11 June (CASE I) and 12 June (CASE II) 2007, several meso‐β‐scale convective systems (MβCSs) were generated along the Meiyu‐Baiu front. In this study, the formation, evolution and dissipation of convective precipitation, kinematics structures, and features of the MβCSs developed over ocean were investigate using dual Doppler analysis. The analysis of synoptic conditions and atmospheric sounding suggested that in both cases the atmospheric environment was characterized by well‐developed convective systems with warm and humid air‐inflow and unstable conditions in addition to strong vertical wind shear at lower levels. In CASE I, an embedded‐cell storm developed, approached the area, and moved slowly (≤ 2.5 m  s−1) northeastward. As the system advanced, strong dominant updraft could be observed at the core. After the system passage, the wind became weak at the centre of the cell, whereas the downdraft area extended up to 4 km in height on the front side. This downdraft flowed back into the convective cell and, maintained the convective activity. The evolution of the updraft and downdraft was in good agreement with the general life cycle of convective systems. In CASE II, line‐shaped convective systems (LSCSs) passed from the southwest to east–northeast at 10 m  s−1. The dual Doppler analysis revealed that the wind at the rear of the band contributed to the cells merge and developed into a strong convective cell. In addition, the outflow from the new cell flowed into the rear of a merged convective cell and enhanced the vertical development of the cell.
1,25(OH)2‐vitamin D3 enhances the stimulating effect of leucine and insulin on protein synthesis rate through Akt/PKB and mTOR mediated pathways in murine C2C12 skeletal myotubes
Authors: Salles Jérôme , Chanet Audrey , Giraudet Christophe , Patrac Véronique , Pierre Philippe , Jourdan Marion , Luiking Yvette C. , Verlaan Sjors , Migné Carole , Boirie Yves , Walrand Stéphane 
Published: August 2013

ScopeIn recent years, there has been a growing body of evidence pointing to an effect of vitamin D on muscle mass and function. Our aim was to investigate the combined effect of 1,25(OH)2‐vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) with anabolic factors insulin and leucine on protein fractional synthesis rate (FSR) and regulation in the mouse C2C12 myotube.Methods and resultsAfter differentiation, myotubes were cultured in 1,25(OH)2D3 solutions at 0, 1, or 10 nM for 72 h. Cells were treated by l‐[1–13C]valine and puromycin in presence or not of leucine and insulin, and protein FSR was determined by measuring tracer enrichments and puromycin incorporation in proteins, respectively. Protein expression and phosphorylation state of insulin receptor (IR), Akt, GSK3, mTOR, p70 S6 kinase, rpS6, and 4EBP1 were measured by Western blot. Transcript levels of IR and 1,25(OH)2D3 receptor (VDR) were determined by qPCR. 1,25(OH)2D3 (10 nM) with leucine and insulin increased protein FSR in C2C12 myotubes (14–16%). IR and VDR mRNA expression was increased with 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment. The Akt/mTOR‐dependent pathway was activated by insulin and leucine and further enhanced by 1,25(OH)2D3.Conclusion1,25(OH)2D3 sensitizes the Akt/mTOR‐dependant pathway to the stimulating effect of leucine and insulin, resulting in a further activation of protein synthesis in murine C2C12 skeletal myotubes.
Visualizing communication structures in science classrooms: Tracing cumulativity in teacher‐led whole class discussions
Authors: Lehesvuori Sami , Viiri Jouni , Rasku‐Puttonen Helena , Moate Josephine , Helaakoski Jussi 
Published: August 2013

AbstractTeacher‐led whole class discussions are essential when it comes to guiding students' construction of knowledge, and recent studies on teaching and learning emphasize the need for more student‐centered teaching methods. In previous studies, the extent to which different types of communication take place in the classroom have been extensively reported by means of lists, tables, and charts, yet these studies have not included overviews of how talk develops and progresses over time. This study addresses this aspect by presenting how different communicative approaches constitute a specific, cumulative communication structure. Within this structure, the role and temporal considerations of a dialogic approach to teaching are examined within a teaching sequence on the topic of electrical power and energy. The case data were analyzed on multiple levels. First, teaching sequences were presented graphically to provide a broader picture of the communicational orientation of the overall lesson. Second, a detailed analysis of dialogic interactions was executed to understand the quality and role of these interactions on a broader communicational level. This multilevel analysis provides insights into the different purposes and quality of dialogic implementation in terms of the cumulative and meaningful learning of science. Implications for teaching and teacher education and educational research are also discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 50: 912–939, 2013
Reliability and effects of muscular pretension on isometric strength of older adults
Authors: Morat Tobias , Preuß Peter 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
There were two objectives to this study: (a) to determine the reliability of measuring isometric maximum torque (MT) and maximum rate of torque development (MRTD) of the knee extensor and flexor muscles and (b) to assess the effects of different muscular pretensions on MT and MRTD of older adults. Maximum strength of 35 untrained healthy older adults (aged 66.9 ± 6.6 years; height 1.72 ± 0.07 m; weight 75.2 ± 9.6 kg) was measured. Strength measurement was performed with the Dr. Wolff ISO Check using a piezo-electric force transducer. MT intra-day coefficient of variation (CV) was between 3.30 and 12.40 % for both measurement sessions. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) ranging from 0.71 to 0.99 showed good relative reliability. MT test–retest reliability (between sessions 1 and 2) of knee extension reached a CV between 7.10 and 9.30 % and high ICC values. The measurement of the knee flexion achieved an acceptable CV (9.40 %) at 40 % muscular pretension. MRTD was negatively influenced by muscular pretension (p <0.05). In conclusion, MT could be measured reliably over different trials using isometric strength measurement. The test–retest reliability was acceptable at knee extension with 10 to 40 % muscular pretension and with 40 % muscular pretension at knee flexion. A higher muscular pretension has no impact on MT but decreases MRTD in older adults.
Origin of the medial ulnar collateral ligament on the pediatric elbow
Authors: Zell Michael , Dwek Jerry R. , Edmonds Eric W. 
Published: August 2013

Purpose Surgical reconstruction of the adult anterior bundle of the medial ulnar collateral elbow ligament (UCL) is a common and established treatment that yields satisfactory results. Children sustain these injuries less frequently, and surgical intervention is complicated by the juxtaposed medial epicondyle apophysis. The purpose of this study was to identify the anatomical origin of the pediatric UCL and determine if this location changes with elbow maturity. Methods A retrospective analysis of children with an elbow MRI between 2009 and 2012 was performed. Ninety children (68 boys, 22 girls), mean age 12.8 years (range 6–18), were grouped by age (<11, 11–13, and >13) and gender. Measurements of UCL width and UCL midpoint distance from medial epicondyle apophysis were recorded on coronal T1 images utilizing digital PACS software. Results Across all groups, boys had a wider UCL than girls (4.05 ± 0.16 mm vs 3.72 ± 0.20 mm, p = 0.03); however, there was no difference in the anatomical origin of the UCL relative to the medial epicondyle apophysis between gender ( p = 0.52), between gender age-matched groups, or within gender age-matched groups. Yet, the anatomic origin of the UCL always remained medial to the cartilaginous interface of the apophysis with the osseous distal humerus and was centered approximately 3 mm medial to the lateral edge of the apophysis. Conclusion Regardless of age or gender, the humeral origin for the medial ulnar collateral ligament is medial to the interface between the medial epicondyle apophysis and distal humerus, which has surgical implications for anatomic reconstruction in children.
Scoliosis after chest wall resection
Authors: Glotzbecker Michael P. , Gold Meryl , Puder Mark , Hresko M. Timothy 
Published: August 2013

Background data There has been an increased focus on the role of rib abnormalities in the development of scoliosis. Rib resection may influence the development of scoliosis. Although scoliosis has been identified in patients after thoracotomy, most of the currently available information is from case reports. Methods We examined records of 37 patients who underwent a chest wall or rib resection for rib lesions at our institution during the period of 1992 to 2005. Adequate data was available in 21 patients. We gathered data on demographic information, location of resection, and changes in curvature after resection based on radiograph or scout CT films at the latest follow-up appointment. Results Fourteen of 21 patients developed scoliosis with a mean Cobb angle of 25.8° (10°–70°). Eleven of these 14 patients had a progressive spinal deformity after chest wall resection with an average change in curvature of 29° (10°–70°). Eight of those 11 developed a convex toward the resection, while 3/11 developed a convex away from the resection. Seven of the eight patients with resections that included a rib superior to the sixth rib developed scoliosis, while four of 13 with resections below the sixth rib developed scoliosis. Conclusion Patients who have had a rib or chest wall resection are at risk for developing scoliosis, particularly if the resection is performed above the sixth rib.
Nondegeneracy of blow-up points for the parabolic Keller–Segel system
Authors: Souplet Philippe , Mizoguchi Noriko 
Published: August 2013

This paper is concerned with the parabolic Keller–Segel system

\left\{\begin{matrix} u_{t} = \mathrm{∇} \cdot \left(\mathrm{∇}u−u^{m}\mathrm{∇}v\right) & \text{in }\Omega \times (0,T), \\ \Gamma v_{t} = \mathrm{\Delta }v−\lambda v + u & \text{in }\Omega \times (0,T), \\ \end{matrix}\right.

in a domain

Ω

of

\mathbb{R}^{N}

with

N⩾1

, where

m,\Gamma > 0

,

\lambda ⩾0

are constants and

T > 0

. When

\Omega \neq \mathbb{R}^{N}

, we impose the Neumann boundary conditions on the boundary. Under suitable assumptions, we prove the local nondegeneracy of blow-up points. This seems new even for the classical Keller–Segel system (

m = 1

). Lower global blow-up estimates are also obtained. In the singular case

0 < m < 1

, as a prerequisite, local existence and regularity properties are established.

Résumé
Dans cet article, nous étudions le système parabolique de Keller–Segel

\left\{\begin{matrix} u_{t} = \mathrm{∇} \cdot \left(\mathrm{∇}u−u^{m}\mathrm{∇}v\right) & \text{dans }\Omega \times (0,T), \\ \Gamma v_{t} = \mathrm{\Delta }v−\lambda v + u & \text{dans }\Omega \times (0,T), \\ \end{matrix}\right.

avec

Ω

un domaine de

\mathbb{R}^{N}

,

N⩾1

, où

m,\Gamma > 0

,

\lambda ⩾0

sont des constantes et

T > 0

. Lorsque

\Omega \neq \mathbb{R}^{N}

, les conditions aux limites de Neumann sont prescrites sur le bord. Sous des hypothèses convenables, nous prouvons la non-dégénérescence locale des points d'explosion. Ce résultat semble nouveau même dans le cas du système de Keller–Segel classique (

m = 1

). Des estimations inférieures globales de la vitesse d'explosion sont également obtenues. Dans le cas singulier

0 < m < 1

, nous établissons les propriétés nécessaires d'existence locale et de régularité.
Preoperative elevation of serum C‐reactive protein as an indicator of poor prognosis for early‐stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Song Zheng‐Bo , Lin Bao‐Chai , Li Bo , He Chun‐Xiao , Zhang Bei‐Bei , Shao Lan , Zhang Yi‐Ping 
Published: August 2013

AbstractPreoperative elevation of serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) is reportedly associated with poor prognosis in several types of cancer. This study investigated the role of serum CRP as a prognostic factor in early‐stage esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The preoperative serum CRP levels were measured in 156 newly diagnosed pT1–2N0M0 patients using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Correlations between serum CRP levels and other clinical parameters were analyzed. Multivariate analyses were performed to find prognostic markers using Cox's proportional hazards model. CRP concentrations were within the normal range in 117 (75%) individuals, but were elevated in 39 (25%) patients. Serum CRP levels were significantly correlated with the tumor length (p = 0.032), depth (T classification, p = 0.0157), or histologic grade (p = 0.034). The overall 5‐year survival rates were 76.3% and 50.2% in the low‐ and high‐CRP groups, respectively (p = 0.005). By multivariate analyses, the elevated serum CRP level was found to be an independent prognostic factor for poor survival (hazard ratio = 2.131; p = 0.007), regardless of tumor classification or other prognostic factors. In conclusion, preoperative, high serum CRP is an independent determinant of poor prognosis in early‐stage ESCC.
Hodgkin's lymphoma‐related vanishing bile duct syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wong Kiong‐Ming , Chang Chao‐Sung , Wu Chun‐Chieh , Yin Hsin‐Ling 
Published: August 2013

AbstractWe report the case of a 38‐year‐old man who developed vanishing bile duct syndrome in association with Hodgkin's lymphoma. He was noted to have cervical lymphadenopathy and marked elevation of total serum bilirubin at diagnosis. He achieved complete remission with normalization of serum bilirubin after eight courses of Adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine chemotherapy followed with autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation. Consecutive liver biopsies performed at diagnosis and at the stage of complete remission revealed the disappearance and regeneration of interlobular bile ducts, respectively. Our case provides pathological evidence that Hodgkin's lymphoma‐related vanishing bile duct syndrome is a reversible bile duct injury disease. Bilirubin is a reliable serum marker to monitor the treatment response of these cases. The mechanism to develop hyperbilirubinemia with vanishing bile duct in such a case of Hodgkin's lymphoma remains to be studied. A literature review was carried out.