bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Novel Si3N4–SiC Ceramic Used for Volumetric Receivers
Authors: Wu Jianfeng , Liu Meng , Xu Xiaohong , Zhang Yaxiang , Lao Xinbin 
Published: April 2013

Si3N4–SiC composite ceramics used for volumetric receivers were fabricated by pressureless sintering of micrometer SiC, Si3N4, andalusite, and other minor additions powders. Mechanical, thermal expansion, thermal conductivity, and thermal shock resistance properties were tested at different sintering temperatures. The best sintering temperature of optimum formula A2 is 1360°C, and the bending strength reaches 79.60 Mpa. And moreover, its thermal expansion coefficient is 6.401 × 10−6/°C, thermal conductivity is 7.83 W/(m K), and no crack occurs even subjected to 30 cycles thermal shock with a bending strength increase rate of 4.72%. X‐ray diffraction results show that the phase constituents of the sintered products mainly consist of SiC, Si3N4, mullite, and quartz. Microstructure that is most appropriate and exhibits maximal thermal shock resistance was detected using SEM. The porosity of Si3N4–SiC ceramic foam prepared from formula A2 is 95%, which provides a rapid and steady action for the receiver. The evaluation of the present foam shows that Si3N4–SiC ceramic composite is a good candidate for volumetric receivers.
Loading and Delivery of Anticancer Drugs using Montmorillonite
Authors: Betsiou Maria , Bantsis Georgios , Sikalidis Costas , Zoi Ioanna , Bourliva Anna 
Published: April 2013

This study aimed to investigate in vitro the montmorillonite (MMT) as carrier for gemcitabine hydrochloride (dFdU.HCl) and oxaliplatin (DACH‐Pt). The maximum adsorption capacities of MMT and their respective mechanisms were determined through a soaking procedure (387.5 mg dFdU.HCl/g MMT were adsorbed in 32 h, 83 mg DACH‐Pt/g MMT in 48 h). Release kinetics studies were carried out soaking the samples of loaded MMT in simulated body fluids (SBF). Finally, in an attempt to explain the mechanism of drug delivery, the chemical interactions were studied theoretically, according to the adsorption and release profiles.
Stroke Rehabilitation in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Wen Wen , Speare Sally , Churilov Leonid , Thuy Matthew , Donnan Geoffrey , Bernhardt Julie 
Published: April 2013

Background Stroke rehabilitation is regarded as an essential component of organized care, therefore withholding treatment is considered unethical in Western trials. Poststroke rehabilitation is not standard in China, and trials with no treatment controls have been possible. We believed aggregation of these data represented a unique opportunity to examine the ‘effect size’ of this intervention. Aim The aim of this study was to systematically review randomized controlled trials that compare rehabilitation to standard care after stroke in China. Methods We searched 24 databases including Wanfangdata (China), MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Cochrane Stroke Group Register, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials. The primary outcome of interest was activities of daily living (Barthel Index), and the secondary outcome was disability (Fugl-Meyer Score). Random-effect meta-analysis was performed. Results Thirty-seven randomized controlled trials consisting of 5916 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age reported in each study range from 47·2 to 72·5 years, 52·6% were male and 23·8% had a haemorrhagic stroke. Rehabilitation interventions varied between studies, but all included additional exercise therapy. Control patients had no formal rehabilitation. Patients who received rehabilitation showed marked improvements in Barthel Index (standardized mean difference: 1·04, 95% confidence interval: 0·88–1·21, P < 0·001, I2 = 85·9%) and Fugl-Meyer Score (standardized mean difference: 1·10, 95% confidence interval: 0·82–1·38, P < 0·001, I2 = 94·3%) compared with controls. However, reporting quality was low, and time to start of rehabilitation was often unclear. Conclusion These data provide some evidence that rehabilitation poststroke is more effective than no rehabilitation, improving activities of daily living and reducing disability. Although results are limited by low reporting quality and study heterogeneity, conducting research in countries in which rehabilitation is not standard care provides an opportunity to advance our understanding and should be encouraged.
Economic openness and welfare state attitudes: A multilevel study across 67 countries
Authors: Koster Ferry 
Published: April 2013

This article extends previous studies investigating economic globalisation and the welfare state by examining individual attitudes, ranging from a preference for individual responsibility (economic individualism) to public demand for government intervention (social equality), across a large number of countries. It formulates different hypotheses about the direct and moderating effects of economic openness on these attitudes. The multilevel analysis, investigating data from 99,663 citizens of 67 countries, leads to the following two conclusions. First, economic openness is associated with a stronger preference for economic individualism and less demand for government intervention. Second, groups benefiting from globalisation and right‐wing voters have a stronger preference for economic individualism if the economic openness of their country is higher.Key Practitioner Message: ● The results show that some vulnerable groups demand more social protection in economically more open countries.
Stromal cell regulation of homeostatic and inflammatory lymphoid organogenesis
Authors: Kain Matthew J. W. , Owens Benjamin M. J. 
Published: April 2013

SummarySecondary lymphoid organs function to increase the efficiency of interactions between rare, antigen‐specific lymphocytes and antigen presenting cells, concentrating antigen and lymphocytes in a supportive environment that facilitates the initiation of an adaptive immune response. Homeostatic lymphoid tissue organogenesis proceeds via exquisitely controlled spatiotemporal interactions between haematopoietic lymphoid tissue inducer populations and multiple subsets of non‐haematopoietic stromal cells. However, it is becoming clear that in a range of inflammatory contexts, ectopic or tertiary lymphoid tissues can develop inappropriately under pathological stress. Here we summarize the role of stromal cells in the development of homeostatic lymphoid tissue, and assess emerging evidence that suggests a critical role for stromal involvement in the tertiary lymphoid tissue development associated with chronic infections and inflammation.
Adult‐onset systemic Langerhans cell histiocytosis mimicking inflammatory bowel disease: the value of skin biopsy and review of cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis with cutaneous involvement seen at the Mayo Clinic
Authors: Podjasek Joshua O. , Loftus Conor G. , Smyrk Thomas C. , Wieland Carilyn N. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundLangerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is frequently known to involve multiple organ systems. However, gastrointestinal involvement by LCH is rare.MethodsWe describe a 68‐year‐old woman with a 3‐year history of intermittent diarrhea initially diagnosed as inflammatory bowel disease. She was subsequently found to have systemic LCH with involvement of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, liver, and skin after skin biopsy was performed. A retrospective review of patients with cutaneous involvement of LCH seen at the Mayo Clinic over the past 15 years was conducted. The presence of systemic disease as well as specific organ system involvement was reviewed.ResultsTwenty‐four patients with cutaneous LCH were identified. Besides our case, one other patient with both gastrointestinal and cutaneous involvement was identified. This patient died at six months of age. No other adult‐onset cases were identified.ConclusionsGastrointestinal involvement with LCH is rare, can be easily misdiagnosed, and likely portends a poor prognosis. In patients with ill‐defined systemic symptoms, cutaneous exam and biopsy have the potential to diagnose systemic disease.
REMOVING SALT SACHETS FROM WARD MEAL‐TRAYS DOES NOT AFFECT PATIENTS' NUTRITIONAL INTAKE
Authors: Ward Jennifer , Batt Elizabeth 
Published: April 2013

SUMMARYBackgroundReducing dietary salt intake lowers blood pressure and proteinuria, both of which are beneficial in preventing renal disease progression. Hospital meals are often accompanied by salt sachets, providing patients with additional salt.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the effects of salt sachet provision by request only (i.e. the patient must ask for a salt sachet rather than the sachet being placed automatically on the tray), on meal consumption and salt intake. A secondary aim was to determine policy on salt sachet provision in other hospitals.DesignSalt sachet use and meal consumption was assessed on a renal ward over two weeks. Salt sachets were then provided ‘by request only’ and the assessment was repeated. Renal Nutrition Group members were surveyed to determine the policy of sachet provision in other hospitals.ResultsSalt intake was significantly reduced during the period when salt was provided by request only compared with routine salt provision (p < 0.01). Meal consumption was similar during both periods. Salt sachet provision varied by hospital.ConclusionProviding salt sachets by ‘request only’ reduced salt intake without affecting meal consumption. This is now the adopted policy on the renal ward at our hospital.
New Method of Synthesizing Aluminum Oxynitride Spinel Powders
Authors: Ruan Guozhi , Xu Haisen , Zhang Zhihui , Yin Mingqiang , Xu Guogang , Zhan Xiaoyuan 
Published: April 2013

Aluminum oxynitride spinel (AlON) powders were synthesized by aluminothermic reaction in a reducing N2‐CO atmosphere. Low cost and easily available aluminum and γ‐Al2O3 alumina micrometer‐sized powders were employed as starting materials. Mixed powders consisting of 75 wt% Al and 25 wt% Al2O3 were milled together and pressed into billets with diameter of 20 mm and height of 15 mm. Green‐body billets were then calcined in charcoal‐protected condition (namely in a N2‐CO atmosphere) at 1600°C. Phase composition and microstructure of final sintered products were analyzed. The results showed that AlON phase with AlN as a minor phase was formed at 1600°C for 3 h. At the same time, grains of AlON were tabular in shape and whiskers can be found in samples after being sintered at 1600°C.
An ethnographic study of the incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions for people with severe mental illness
Authors: Roberts Seren Haf , Bailey Jois Elisabeth 
Published: April 2013

AbstractAimsTo explore incentives and barriers to an educational lifestyle intervention for people with severe mental illness.BackgroundSocial and lifestyle factors along with long‐term antipsychotic therapy contribute to poorer physical health in people with severe mental illness. Behavioural lifestyle interventions for this clinical group have shown some benefit. Evidence relating to the incentives and barriers to interventions is limited.DesignAn ethnographic qualitative study was undertaken.MethodsData collection was carried out through participant observations and semi‐structured interviews with eight mental health service users attending, or previously attended, a group‐based lifestyle intervention. Interview data were collected between September 2008–April 2009 and observation data were collected between September–December 2009.Results/FindingsParticipant observation highlighted environment, facilitator style, group ownership, group cohesion, information and learning, incentives and barriers as important. Participant interviews identified weight management, social networking, information and communication, role of healthcare professionals and perceived benefits as key themes.ConclusionsThis study provides evidence about the incentives and barriers to lifestyle interventions from service users' perspective, which should inform developments to improve the delivery of lifestyle interventions for this group.
Mutation Location Effect on Severity of Phenotype During Exercise Testing in Type 1 Long‐QT Syndrome: Impact of Transmembrane and C‐Loop Location
Authors: LAKSMAN ZACHARY W.M. , HAMILTON ROBERT M. , CHOCKALINGAM PRIYA , BALLANTYNE EMILY , STEPHENSON ELIZABETH A. , GROSS GIL J. , GULA LORNE J. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , WILDE ARTHUR A.M. , KRAHN ANDREW D. 
Published: April 2013

Mutation Location Effect on SeverityBackgroundTargeted mutation site‐specific differences have correlated C‐loop missense mutations with worse outcomes and increased benefit of beta‐blockers in LQT1. This observation has implicated the C‐loop region as being mechanistically important in the altered response to sympathetic stimulation known to put patients with LQT1 at risk of syncope and sudden cardiac death.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to determine if there is mutation site‐specific response to sympathetic stimulation and beta‐blockers using exercise testing.MethodsThis study is a retrospective review of LQT1 patients undergoing exercise testing at 3 academic referral centers.ResultsA total of 123 patients (age 28 ± 17 years, 59 male) were studied including 34 patients (28%) with C‐loop mutations. There were no significant differences in supine, standing, peak exercise and 1‐minute recovery QTc duration between patients with C‐loop mutations and patients with alternate mutation sites. In 37 patients that underwent testing on and off beta‐blockers, beta‐blocker use was associated with a significant reduction in supine, standing and peak exercise QTc. This difference was not seen in the small group of patients (7/37) with C‐loop mutations. There was no difference in QTc at 1 and 4 minutes into recovery.ConclusionsGenetically confirmed LQT1 patients in this study cohort with C‐loop mutations did not demonstrate the expected increase in QTc in response to exercise, or resultant response to beta‐blocker. The apparent increased risk of cardiac events associated with C‐loop mutation sites and the marked benefit received from beta‐blocker therapy are not reflected by exercise‐mediated effects on QTc in this study population.
Effect of a Novel Calcium Channel Blocker on Abnormal Nocturnal Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Nariyama Jin , Kido Hidenori , Ando Shin‐ichi , Takiuchi Shin , Eguchi Kazuo , Niijima Yawara , Ando Toshiaki , Noda Makoto 
Published: April 2013

The authors examined the effect of cilnidipine, a unique L/N‐type calcium channel blocker, on abnormal nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping in Japanese hypertensive patients in the real world. The Ambulatory Blood Pressure Control and Home Blood Pressure (Morning and Evening) Lowering by N‐Channel Blocker Cilnidipine (ACHIEVE‐ONE), a large‐scale clinical study, was designed to evaluate the effects of cilnidipine in daily medical practice. Among the study, 24‐hour ambulatory BP data were obtained from 615 patients and classified according to their nocturnal dipping status as extreme dippers, dippers, nondippers, or risers. A 12‐week treatment with cilnidipine significantly reduced 24‐hour BP in all groups (P<.001). Changes in nocturnal systolic BP (SBP) from baseline were −17.9 mm Hg from 154.6 mm Hg in risers and −11.9 mm Hg from 142.1 mm Hg, −6.6 mm Hg from 128.5 mm Hg, and 0.1 mm Hg from 115.8 mm Hg in nondippers, dippers, and extreme dippers, respectively. Changes from baseline in nocturnal SBP reduction rate were 8.2% in risers (P<.001) but −7.0% in extreme dippers (P<.001), while no change was observed in the nighttime SBP reduction rate for the total patients (−0.2%±9.6%, P=.617). Cilnidipine partially, but significantly, restored abnormal nocturnal dipping status toward a normal dipping pattern in hypertensive patients.
Genetic comparison of mouse lung telocytes with mesenchymal stem cells and fibroblasts
Authors: Zheng Yonghua , Zhang Miaomiao , Qian Mengjia , Wang Lingyan , Cismasiu V. B. , Bai Chunxue , Popescu L. M. , Wang Xiangdong 
Published: April 2013

AbstractTelocytes (TCs) are interstitial cells with telopodes – very long prolongations that establish intercellular contacts with various types of cells. Telocytes have been found in many organs and various species and have been characterized ultrastructurally, immunophenotypically and electrophysiologically (www.telocytes.com). Telocytes are distributed through organ stroma forming a three‐dimensional network in close contacts with blood vessels, nerve bundles and cells of the local immune system. Moreover, it has been shown that TCs express a broad range of microRNAs, such as pro‐angiogenic and stromal‐specific miRs. In this study, the gene expression profile of murine lung TCs is compared with other differentiated interstitial cells (fibroblasts) and with stromal stem/progenitor cells. More than 2000 and 4000 genes were found up‐ or down‐regulated, respectively, in TCs as compared with either MSCs or fibroblasts. Several components or regulators of the vascular basement membrane are highly expressed in TCs, such as Nidogen, Collagen type IV and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase 3 (TIMP3). Given that TCs locate in close vicinity of small vessels and capillaries, the data suggest the implication of TCs in vascular branching. Telocytes express also matrix metalloproteases Mmp3 and Mmp10, and thus could regulate extracellular matrix during vascular branching and de novo vessel formation. In conclusion, our data show that TCs are not fibroblasts, as the ultrastructure, immunocytochemistry and microRNA assay previously indicated. Gene expression profile demonstrates that TCs are functionally distinct interstitial cells with specific roles in cell signalling, tissue remodelling and angiogenesis.
Evidence of a middle longitudinal fasciculus in the human brain from fiber dissection
Authors: Maldonado Igor Lima , de Champfleur Nicolas Menjot , Velut Stéphane , Destrieux Christophe , Zemmoura Ilyess , Duffau Hugues 
Published: April 2013

AbstractA rostrocaudal pathway connecting the temporal and parietal lobes was described in monkeys using autoradiography and was named the middle longitudinal fasciculus (MdLF). Recently, the use of diffusion tensor tractography has allowed it to be depicted in human volunteers. In the present study, a technique of fiber dissection was used in 18 cadaveric human brains to investigate the presence of this fasciculus and to detail its anatomical relationships. On the basis of our findings, fiber dissection provides evidence for a long horizontal bundle medial to the arcuate fasciculus and extending to the superior temporal gyrus. Its fibers occupy the lateral‐most layer of the upper portion of the stratum sagittale and partially cover the inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus, which is situated deeper and slightly inferiorly. Whereas MdLF fibers continue on a relatively superficial level to reach the superior temporal gyrus, the inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus penetrates the deep temporal white matter and crosses the insular lobe. Although diffusion tensor imaging suggests that the MdLF terminates in the angular gyrus, this was not confirmed by the present study. These long association fibers continue onward posteriorly into upper portions of the occipital lobe. Further studies are needed to understand the role of the MdLF in brain function.
Assessing the fire tolerance of forest species inNewCaledonian savanna: modelling choices do matter
Authors: Fernandes Paulo M. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIbanez et al. (Journal of Vegetation Science,2013,24: 177) used fire modelling to examine the differential fire tolerance of secondary forest species inNewCaledonia savanna. Misinterpretation of the concept of flame‐front residence time and inadequate choices and linkages of fire behaviour and fire effects models affected the estimation of both stem and canopy injury. The most relevant concern is that the depth of fire‐induced necrosis in the stem was overemphasized by a factor of two to three, underestimating tree tolerance to fire and overestimating the tree size thresholds for escaping fire.
Circulating MicroRNAs as potential biomarkers for alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Chen Yi‐peng , Jin Xi , Xiang Zun , Chen Shao‐hua , Li You‐ming 
Published: April 2013

AbstractAimsTo investigate serum miRNA profile in alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), evaluate its effect as non‐invasive diagnostic tool and to study its targets' function.MethodsMicroarray and quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) were utilized to detect serum miRNAs pattern in a rat ASH model, followed by target prediction with bioinformatics calculation. The functions and pathways of miRNAs' targets were analysed using databases of Gene Ontology and KEGG. The association between dysregulated miRNAs and genes was assessed by MiR‐Gene Network. Five top dysregulated miRNAs were also verified in humans.ResultsEight up‐regulated and three down‐regulated serum miRNAs were selected as an accurate molecular signature in distinguishing ASH from control. For up‐regulated miRNAs, 122 GO and 144 KEGG pathways were significantly enriched, including apoptosis, lipid metabolic process, PPAR signalling pathway. For down‐regulated miRNAs, 86 GO and 104 KEGG pathways were enriched, including fatty acid metabolism and insulin signalling pathway. Besides, Ccdc117, Gcom1, Zmynd11 and Zfp423 were found at top list as under common regulation of maximum miRNAs. Moreover, miR‐214 had the highest degree of 63 among all miRNAs, followed by miR‐203 and miR‐539. Similarly, Stat3 and Lyn showed the highest degree of 5 among all downstream targets. All significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) revealed that five top dysregulated miRNAs showed the same tendency in humans.ConclusionWe have reported a unique serum miRNA pattern for non‐invasive diagnosis of ASH and provided data reservoir for miRNA and downstream targets exploration.
Barnacle fouling in the Mediterranean sponges Axinella polypoides and Axinella verrucosa
Authors: Haber Markus , Gur Amir , Blihoghe Daniela , Ilan Micha 
Published: April 2013

AbstractSecondary metabolites protect many marine sponges (Phylum: Porifera) from settlement by fouling organisms. Previous studies on the subtidal demosponge Axinella verrucosa collected in the Western Mediterranean led to the isolation of compounds that inhibited the settlement of cyprids larvae of the intertidal barnacle Balanus amphitrite, and the enzyme chitinase, which plays a key role in the molting cycle of crustaceans. However, in a field survey conducted at three locations in Israel, Eastern Mediterranean Sea, we observed that A. verrucosa is fouled by the subtidal barnacle Balanus trigonus, a previously unknown association. Settlement inhibition assays using B. amphitrite with chemical extracts from Israeli A. verrucosa and Axinella polypoides, a sympatric, congeneric sponge that seems not to be fouled by B. trigonus, showed that cyprid larvae of B. amphitrite were inhibited by the extracts of both sponges from settlement at concentrations several magnitudes lower than natural volumetric extract concentration in the sponges. These results indicate that, unlike the intertidal barnacle B. amphitrite, the subtidal B. trigonus is unaffected by the compounds from A. verrucosa, stressing and underlining the importance of using suitable target organisms (i.e. from the same habitat) to test for ecologically relevant antifouling activities.