bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A conceptual model of HIV disclosure in casual sexual encounters among men who have sex with men
Authors: Bird Jason D.P. , Voisin Dexter R.
Published: October 2010

HIV/AIDS continues to disproportionately impact men who have sex with men (MSM). Advances in highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) have successfully helped HIV-infected individuals lead longer, healthier, and presumably more sexually active lives. Consequently, secondary prevention approaches aimed at reducing the rate of HIV transmission have raised important questions about the role of sexual communication, namely HIV disclosure, as a primary target for intervention. This paper proposes a conceptual model of HIV disclosure in casual sexual encounters among MSM informed by Goffman’s work on stigma and based on existing empirical research. The article concludes with an agenda for research based in this integrative model.
Learning Real-Life Lessons From Online Games
Authors: Lange Patricia G.
Published: October 2010

Games have received increased scholarly attention due to the economic value they generate. Yet, some studies still conceptualize games as ‘‘virtual’’ realms that are theoretically distinct from ‘‘real world’’ experiences. Based on an ethnographic investigation of two online, text-based gaming environments, this study analyzes dynamics such as technical acculturation, access to technical knowledge, and opportunities for self-expression by studying social interaction that occurred in non-revenue-generating games. Frameworks that focus on dynamics such as in-game conversation in broader game-centric domains or ecologies should be considered to accommodate a wider variety of gaming forms and related interdisciplinary research questions. Different games have different consequences, and it is important to understand the varying consequential contexts that games afford. Whether or not the consequences may be measured economically, it is nevertheless important to consider how social interactions may complicate forms of self-expression in ways that impact the human spirit.
Bengali-American Fiction in Immigrant Identity Work
Authors: Niyogi Sanghamitra
Published: October 2010

In this article I focus on the reception and appropriation of three critically acclaimed, best-selling novels about Bengali-Americans by Bengali immigrants in the San Francisco Bay Area. The three novels are: Bharati Mukherjee’s Desirable Daughters (2002); Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni’s The Queen of Dreams (2004); and Jhumpa Lahiri’s The Namesake (2004). Using data from interviews and participant observation, I argue that questions concerning the reception of ethnic literature are inextricably linked with the processes of adaptation and identification. This article seeks to contextualize fiction by Bengali-Americans in relation to the continually debated issue of multicultural politics in the USA. The novels provide immigrants with appealing themes of nostalgia, empowerment, dissonance and self-determination to construct an internal ethnic identity. Immigrants actively use these themes to reconcile apparently contradictory impulses and to draw boundaries that safeguard their class privilege, assuage gender inequality and avoid racialization.
Possible Selves and Self-Doubt
Authors: Carroll Patrick J. , Arkin Robert M. , Shade Courtney K.
Published: October 2010

Three studies tested whether self-doubt stems more from the absence of a strong desired self or the presence of a strong undesired self. Across studies, participants completed individual difference measures and then imagined a desired, neutral, or undesired possible self and completed strength measures for the imagined possible self. As predicted, compared to low self-doubt participants, high self-doubt participants reported less confidence in imagined desired selves and were slower to respond to desired self-consistent terms; however, they did not differ on explicit (confidence) or implicit (response speed) strength measures for imagined neutral or undesired selves. Moreover, the weaker desired selves imagined by high self-doubt participants predicted lower performance (compared to low self-doubt participants) on a final achievement test. Finally, the interactive effect of self-doubt and imagery on performance held after controlling for self-esteem and self-concept clarity but, consistent with predictions, was mediated by strength of the possible self.
Coping With the Stress of Being Bullied
Authors: Newman Matthew L. , Holden George W. , Delville Yvon
Published: October 2010

The stress of being bullied has been associated with a wide range of negative consequences. In the present study, the authors hypothesized that the process of adapting to and coping with bullying would have a lingering effect on strategies used to cope with future stress. College-age participants ( N = 1,339) completed an online survey tapping into (a) their experiences as a victim of bullying during adolescence, (b) their typical strategies for coping with stress, and (c) their current levels of stress. Consistent with the authors' hypotheses, victimization history was associated with both increased stress and an increased use of avoidant coping strategies. In addition, avoidant coping partially mediated the link between victimization and stress. These findings suggest that avoidant coping may develop as an adaptive response to uncontrollable stress but that, in the long term, these strategies are a maladaptive approach to coping that acts to prolong stress.
Peak temperatures during friction stir welding of Ti–6Al–4V
Authors: Edwards P. , Ramulu M.
Published: October 2010

Experimental measurements were made to determine the peak temperatures during friction stir welding of Ti–6Al–4V alloy as a function of the processing conditions such as tool rotation speed and feedrate. It was found that the spindle speed has a dominant effect on peak temperatures, while feedrate controls exposure time. Low spindle speed conditions lead to peak temperatures near, or below, the beta transus temperature of the material, 1000°C (1800°F), while high spindle speed welds result in peak temperatures above 1200°C (2100°F). Weld microstructures were also evaluated as a function of the weld parameters. Higher spindle speeds and lower federate lead to increased grain size.
Modelling of electromagnetic processes in system ‘welding arc–evaporating anode’ Part 2 – model of arc column and anode metal
Authors: Krivtsun I. , Demchenko V. , Lisnyi O. , Krikent I. , Porytsky P. , Reisgen U. , Mokrov O. , Zabirov A. , Pavlyk V.
Published: October 2010

A mathematical model of electromagnetic processes occurring in the ‘arc column–anode region–evaporating anode’ system is suggested. Electric charge transfer processes in the multicomponent plasma of the electric arc and in the bulk of the metallic anode are described using the Ohm's law and charge conservation law generalised for a case of discontinuity of the electric field potential at the boundary between the arc plasma and the anode surface. A procedure was developed for finding the numerical solution of the stated problem by the shock capturing method, allowing modelling of the electromagnetic processes in the ‘welding arc–evaporating anode’ system in the presence of a reverse potential jump in the anode region (negative anode drop). Results of modelling of the said processes for gas metal arc and plasma transferred arc welding of steel in an inert gas (Ar) atmosphere are given.
Accumulation of stress in constrained assemblies: Novel Satoh test configuration
Authors: Shirzadi A. A. , Bhadeshia H. K. D. H.
Published: October 2010

A common test used to study the response of a transforming material to external constraint is due to Satoh and involves the cooling of a rigidly constrained tensile specimen while monitoring the stress that accumulates. Such tests are currently common in the invention of welding alloys which on phase transformation lead to a reduction in residual stresses in the final assembly. The test suffers from the fact that the whole of the tensile specimen is not maintained at a uniform temperature, making it difficult to interpret the data. To eliminate this problem, the authors report here a novel Satoh test in which the material investigated is a part of a composite sample. It is demonstrated that this helps avoid some of the complications of the conventional tests and gives results which are consistent with independent tests.
Grain structure and microtexture in friction stir welded commercial purity titanium
Authors: Zhang Y. , Sato Y. S. , Kokawa H. , Park S. H. C. , Hirano S.
Published: October 2010

Defect free friction stir welds were produced in commercial purity titanium at rotational speeds between 200 and 400 rev min–1. Friction stir welding produced a finer grain structure in the stir zone than in the base material. Electron backscattered diffraction examination suggested that the fine grains in the stir zone were formed through both continuous and discontinuous recrystallisation during friction stir welding. A torsion texture was observed in all welds and occupied most parts of the stir zone. Formation of this texture was attributed to the shear deformation along the tool shoulder during the stirring process.
The chemokine CXCL12 regulates monocyte-macrophage differentiation and RUNX3 expression
Authors: Sánchez-Martín Lorena , Estecha Ana , Samaniego Rafael , Sánchez-Ramón Silvia , Vega Miguel Ángel , Sánchez-Mateos Paloma
Published: October 2010

Monocytes are versatile cells that can express different functional programs in response to microenvironmental signals. We show that primary blood monocytes secrete the CXCL12 chemokine, and express the CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors, leading to an autocrine/paracrine loop that contribute to shape monocyte differentiation to a distinct type of macrophages, with an enhanced expression of CD4, CD14, and CD163, or dendritic cells, with a reduced functional ability to stimulate antigen-specific T-lymphocyte responses. The in vivo relevance of CXCL12 production by mononuclear phagocytes was studied in metastatic melanoma tissues by a thoroughly immunofluorescence phenotyping of CXCL12high expressing cells, which were CD45+, coexpressed the macrophage antigens CD68, CD163, and CD209 and constituted the 60%-90% of tumor-associated macrophages. Microarray analysis of primary monocytes revealed that the vascular endothelial growth factor and the angiogenic chemokine CCL1 mRNA levels were up-regulated in response to CXCL12, leading to enhanced expression of both proteins. In addition, we found that CXCL12 autocrine/paracrine signaling down-regulates the expression of the transcription factor RUNX3 and contributes to maintain the long-term CD4 and CD14 expression in monocytes/macrophages. Together, these results suggest that autocrine CXCL12 production modulates differentiation of monocytes toward a distinct program with proangiogenic and immunosuppressive functions.
Unique genome-wide transcriptome profiles of chicken macrophages exposed to Salmonella-derived endotoxin
Authors: Ciraci Ceren , Tuggle Christopher K , Wannemuehler Michael J , Nettleton Dan , Lamont Susan J
Published: October 2010

Background

Macrophages play essential roles in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Bacteria require endotoxin, a complex lipopolysaccharide, for outer membrane permeability and the host interprets endotoxin as a signal to initiate an innate immune response. The focus of this study is kinetic and global transcriptional analysis of the chicken macrophage response to in vitro stimulation with endotoxin from Salmonella
typhimurium-798.

Results

The 38535-probeset Affymetrix GeneChip Chicken Genome array was used to profile transcriptional response to endotoxin 1, 2, 4, and 8 hours post stimulation (hps). Using a maximum FDR (False Discovery Rate) of 0.05 to declare genes as differentially expressed (DE), we found 13, 33, 1761 and 61 DE genes between endotoxin-stimulated versus non-stimulated cells at 1, 2, 4 and 8 hps, respectively. QPCR demonstrated that endotoxin exposure significantly affected the mRNA expression of IL1B, IL6, IL8, and TLR15, but not IL10 and IFNG in HD 11 cells. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed that 10% of the total DE genes were involved in inflammatory response. Three, 9.7, 96.8, and 11.8% of the total DE inflammatory response genes were significantly differentially expressed with endotoxin stimulation at 1, 2, 4 and 8 hps, respectively. The NFKBIA, IL1B, IL8 and CCL4 genes were consistently induced at all times after endotoxin treatment. NLRC5 (CARD domain containing, NOD-like receptor family, RCJMB04_18i2), an intracellular receptor, was induced in HD11 cells treated with endotoxin.

Conclusions

As above using an in vitro model of chicken response to endotoxin, our data revealed the kinetics of gene networks involved in host response to endotoxin and extend the known complexity of networks in chicken immune response to Gram-negative bacteria such as Salmonella. The induction of NFKBIA, IL1B, IL8, CCL4 genes is a consistent signature of host response to endotoxin over time. We make the first report of induction of a NOD-like receptor family member in response to Salmonella endotoxin in chicken macrophages.
Genome-wide association reveals genetic effects on human Aβ 42 and τ protein levels in cerebrospinal fluids: a case control study
Authors: Han Mi-Ryung , Schellenberg Gerard D , Wang Li-San ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2010

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is common and highly heritable with many genes and gene variants associated with AD in one or more studies, including APOE ε2/ε3/ε4. However, the genetic backgrounds for normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and AD in terms of changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of Aβ1-42, T-tau, and P-tau181P, have not been clearly delineated. We carried out a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in order to better define the genetic backgrounds to these three states in relation to CSF levels.

Methods

Subjects were participants in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). The GWAS dataset consisted of 818 participants (mainly Caucasian) genotyped using the Illumina Human Genome 610 Quad BeadChips. This sample included 410 subjects (119 Normal, 115 MCI and 176 AD) with measurements of CSF Aβ1-42, T-tau, and P-tau181P Levels. We used PLINK to find genetic associations with the three CSF biomarker levels. Association of each of the 498,205 SNPs was tested using additive, dominant, and general association models while considering APOE genotype and age. Finally, an effort was made to better identify relevant biochemical pathways for associated genes using the ALIGATOR software.

Results

We found that there were some associations with APOE genotype although CSF levels were about the same for each subject group; CSF Aβ1-42 levels decreased with APOE gene dose for each subject group. T-tau levels tended to be higher among AD cases than among normal subjects. From adjusted result using APOE genotype and age as covariates, no SNP was associated with CSF levels among AD subjects. CYP19A1 'aromatase' (rs2899472), NCAM2, and multiple SNPs located on chromosome 10 near the ARL5B gene demonstrated the strongest associations with Aβ1-42 in normal subjects. Two genes found to be near the top SNPs, CYP19A1 (rs2899472, p = 1.90 × 10-7) and NCAM2 (rs1022442, p = 2.75 × 10-7) have been reported as genetic factors related to the progression of AD from previous studies. In AD subjects, APOE ε2/ε3 and ε2/ε4 genotypes were associated with elevated T-tau levels and ε4/ε4 genotype was associated with elevated T-tau and P-tau181P levels. Pathway analysis detected several biological pathways implicated in Normal with CSF β-amyloid peptide (Aβ1-42).

Conclusions

Our genome-wide association analysis identified several SNPs as important factors for CSF biomarker. We also provide new evidence for additional candidate genetic risk factors from pathway analysis that can be tested in further studies.
Is there an association between mild cognitive impairment and dietary pattern in chinese elderly? Results from a cross-sectional population study
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Dong Birong , Zeng Guo , Li Jun , Wang Wenlei , Wang Binyou , Yuan Qiyuan
Published: October 2010

Background

Diet has an impact on cognitive function in most prior studies but its association with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) in Chinese nonagenarians and centenarians has not been explored.

Methods

870 elder dujiangyan residents aged 90 years or more in 2005 census were investigated at community halls or at home. They underwent the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) for assessment of cognitive function and replied to our questionnaire comprised of 12 food items and other risk factors. MCI was defined by two steps: first, subjects with post-stroke disease, Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease and MMSE< 18 were excluded; and then subjects were categorized as MCI (MMSE scores between 19 and 24) and normal (MMSE scores between 25 and 30). Logistic regression models were used to analyze the association between diet and the prevalence of MCI. The model was adjusted for gender, ages, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, smoking habits, alcohol and tea consumption, educational levels and exercise in baseline dietary assessment.

Results

364 elderly finally included, 108 (38.71%) men and 171 (61.29%) women of whom were classified as MCI. A significant correlation between MCI and normal in legume was observed (OR, 0.84; 95%CI, 0.72-0.97), and also in animal oil (any oil that obtained from animal substances) (OR, 0.93; 95%CI, 0.88-0.98). There was no statistical difference of other food items between normal and MCI.

Conclusions

Among Chinese nonagenarians and centenarians, we found there were significant associations between inadequate intake of legume and animal oil and the prevalence of MCI. No significant correlation between other food items and the prevalence of MCI were demonstrated in this study.
Freeze-thaw treatment effects on the dynamic mechanical properties of articular cartilage
Authors: Szarko Matthew , Muldrew Ken , Bertram John EA
Published: October 2010

Background

As a relatively non-regenerative tissue, articular cartilage has been targeted for cryopreservation as a method of mitigating a lack of donor tissue availability for transplant surgeries. In addition, subzero storage of articular cartilage has long been used in biomedical studies using various storage temperatures. The current investigation studies the potential for freeze-thaw to affect the mechanical properties of articular cartilage through direct comparison of various subzero storage temperatures.

Methods

Both subzero storage temperature as well as freezing rate were compared using control samples (4°C) and samples stored at either -20°C or -80°C as well as samples first snap frozen in liquid nitrogen (-196°C) prior to storage at -80°C. All samples were thawed at 37.5°C to testing temperature (22°C). Complex stiffness and hysteresis characterized load resistance and damping properties using a non-destructive, low force magnitude, dynamic indentation protocol spanning a broad loading rate range to identify the dynamic viscoelastic properties of cartilage.

Results

Stiffness levels remained unchanged with exposure to the various subzero temperatures. Hysteresis increased in samples snap frozen at -196°C and stored at -80°C, though remained unchanged with exposure to the other storage temperatures.

Conclusions

Mechanical changes shown are likely due to ice lens creation, where frost heave effects may have caused collagen damage. That storage to -20°C and -80°C did not alter the mechanical properties of articular cartilage shows that when combined with a rapid thawing protocol to 37.5°C, the tissue may successfully be stored at subzero temperatures.
A mutational analysis and molecular dynamics simulation of quinolone resistance proteins QnrA1 and QnrC from Proteus mirabilis
Authors: Guo Qinglan , Weng Jingwei , Xu Xiaogang , Wang Minghua , Wang Xiaoying , Ye Xinyu , Wang Wenning , Wang Minggui
Published: October 2010

Background

The first report on the transferable, plasmid-mediated quinolone-resistance determinant qnrA1 was in 1998. Since then, qnr alleles have been discovered worldwide in clinical strains of Gram-negative bacilli. Qnr proteins confer quinolone resistance, and belong to the pentapeptide repeat protein (PRP) family. Several PRP crystal structures have been solved, but little is known about the functional significance of their structural arrangement.

Results

We conducted random and site-directed mutagenesis on qnrA1 and on qnrC, a newly identified quinolone-resistance gene from Proteus mirabilis. Many of the Qnr mutants lost their quinolone resistance function. The highly conserved hydrophobic Leu or Phe residues at the center of the pentapeptide repeats are known as i sites, and loss-of-function mutations included replacement of the i site hydrophobic residues with charged residues, replacing the i
-2 site, N-terminal to the i residues, with bulky side-chain residues, introducing Pro into the β-helix coil, deletion of the N- and C-termini, and excision of a central coil. Molecular dynamics simulations and homology modeling demonstrated that QnrC overall adopts a stable β-helix fold and shares more similarities with MfpA than with other PRP structures. Based on homology modeling and molecular dynamics simulation, the dysfunctional point mutations introduced structural deformations into the quadrilateral β-helix structure of PRPs. Of the pentapeptides of QnrC, two-thirds adopted a type II β-turn, while the rest adopted type IV turns. A gap exists between coil 2 and coil 3 in the QnrC model structure, introducing a structural flexibility that is similar to that seen in MfpA.

Conclusion

The hydrophobic core and the β-helix backbone conformation are important for maintaining the quinolone resistance property of Qnr proteins. QnrC may share structural similarity with MfpA.
Animal Models in Diabetes and Pregnancy
Authors: Jawerbaum Alicia , White Verónica
Published: October 2010

The worldwide increase in the incidence of diabetes, the increase in type 2 diabetes in women at reproductive ages, and the cross-generation of the intrauterine programming of type 2 diabetes are the bases for the growing interest in the use of experimental diabetic models in order to gain insight into the mechanisms of induction of developmental alterations in maternal diabetes.

In this scenario, experimental models that present the most common features of diabetes in pregnancy are highly required. Several important aspects of human diabetic pregnancies such as the increased rates of spontaneous abortions, malformations, fetoplacental impairments, and offspring diseases in later life can be approached by using the appropriate animal models. The purpose of this review is to give a practical and critical guide into the most frequently used experimental models in diabetes and pregnancy, discuss their advantages and limitations, and describe the aspects of diabetes and pregnancy for which these models are thought to be adequate. This review provides a comprehensive view and an extensive analysis of the different models and phenotypes addressed in diabetic animals throughout pregnancy. The review includes an analysis of the surgical, chemical-induced, and genetic experimental models of diabetes and an evaluation of their use to analyze early pregnancy defects, induction of congenital malformations, placental and fetal alterations, and the intrauterine programming of metabolic diseases in the offspring’s later life.
Endothelin receptor type A expression defines a distinct cardiac subdomain within the heart field and is later implicated in chamber myocardium formation
Authors: Asai Rieko , Kurihara Yukiko , Fujisawa Kou , Sato Takahiro , Kawamura Yumiko , Kokubo Hiroki , Tonami Kazuo , Nishiyama Koichi , Uchijima Yasunobu , Miyagawa-Tomita Sachiko , Kurihara Hiroki
Published: October 2010

The avian and mammalian heart originates from two distinct embryonic regions: an early differentiating first heart field and a dorsomedially located second heart field. It remains largely unknown when and how these subdivisions of the heart field divide into regions with different fates. Here, we identify in the mouse a subpopulation of the first (crescent-forming) field marked by endothelin receptor type A (Ednra) gene expression, which contributes to chamber myocardium through a unique type of cell behavior. Ednra-lacZ/EGFP-expressing cells arise in the ventrocaudal inflow region of the early linear heart tube, converge to the midline, move anteriorly along the outer curvature and give rise to chamber myocardium mainly of the left ventricle and both atria. This movement was confirmed by fluorescent dye-labeling and transplantation experiments. The Ednra-lacZ/EGFP-expressing subpopulation is characterized by the presence of Tbx5-expressing cells. Ednra-null embryonic hearts often demonstrate hypoplasia of the ventricular wall, low mitotic activity and decreased Tbx5 expression with reciprocal expansion of Tbx2 expression. Conversely, endothelin 1 stimulates ERK phosphorylation and Tbx5 expression in the early embryonic heart. These results indicate that early Ednra expression defines a subdomain of the first heart field contributing to chamber formation, in which endothelin 1/Ednra signaling is involved. The present finding provides an insight into how subpopulations within the crescent-forming (first) heart field contribute to the coordination of heart morphogenesis through spatiotemporally defined cell movements.
Novel modes of localization and function of nanos in the wasp Nasonia
Authors: Lynch Jeremy A. , Desplan Claude
Published: October 2010

Abdominal patterning in Drosophila requires the function of nanos (nos) to prevent translation of hunchback (hb) mRNA in the posterior of the embryo. nos function is restricted to the posterior by the translational repression of mRNA that is not incorporated into the posteriorly localized germ plasm during oogenesis. The wasp Nasonia vitripennis (Nv) undergoes a long germ mode of development very similar to Drosophila, although the molecular patterning mechanisms employed in these two organisms have diverged significantly, reflecting the independent evolution of this mode of development. Here, we report that although Nv nanos (Nv-nos) has a conserved function in embryonic patterning through translational repression of hb, the timing and mechanisms of this repression are significantly delayed in the wasp compared with the fly. This delay in Nv-nos function appears to be related to the dynamic behavior of the germ plasm in Nasonia, as well as to the maternal provision of Nv-Hb protein during oogenesis. Unlike in flies, there appears to be two functional populations of Nv-nos mRNA: one that is concentrated in the oosome and is taken up into the pole cells before evidence of Nv-hb repression is observed; another that forms a gradient at the posterior and plays a role in Nv-hb translational repression. Altogether, our results show that, although the embryonic patterning function of nos orthologs is broadly conserved, the mechanisms employed to achieve this function are distinct.
Electroanalytical applications of nanocomposites from conducting polymers and metallic nanoparticles prepared by layer-by-layer deposition
Authors: Tsakova Vessela , Ivanov Svetlozar , Lange Ulrich , Stoyanova Aneliya , Lyutov Vladimir , Mirsky Vladimir M.
Published: October 2010

Layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition is a convenient technique for the formation of ultra-thin nanocomposite layers containing metallic nanoparticles (NPs) and conducting polymers (CPs). The advantages of this approach for producing composite layers suitable for electroanalytical applications are discussed. Examples of electroanalytical applications of LbL-deposited composites are presented. Composite layers consisting of polyaniline (PANI) and Pd NPs are used for hydrazine oxidation. The PANI–Au NPs system is applied for dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA) oxidation.
Association of thyroid function with estimated glomerular filtration rate in a population-based study: the HUNT study
Authors: Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Bjøro Trine , Vatten Lars J
Published: October 2010

Objective

Low thyroid function may be associated with reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR). We therefore studied the association of thyroid function with estimated GFR (eGFR) in a population-based study.

Design

A cross-sectional, population-based study of 29 480 individuals above 40 years of age, without previously known thyroid disease.

Methods

We calculated geometric mean eGFR and odds ratio (OR) of chronic kidney disease (CKD; eGFR <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) according to categories of thyroid function, using people with TSH in the lower third of the reference range (0.50–1.4 mU/l) as the comparison group.

Results

TSH within the reference range (0.50–3.5 mU/l) was negatively associated with eGFR (Pfor trend <0.001). Compared with people with TSH in the lower third of the reference range (83.0 ml/min per 1.73 m2), eGFR was lower in people with TSH in the middle (81.6 ml/min per 1.73 m2) and highest third (80.3 ml/min per 1.73 m2) of the reference range, and in people with subclinical (79.3 ml/min per 1.73 m2,P<0.001) or overt hypothyroidism (76.5 ml/min per 1.73 m2,P<0.001). The prevalence of CKD was higher in people with TSH in the middle (OR 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–1.35) or highest third (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.13–1.52) of the reference range, compared with people in the reference group. Also, CKD was more common in people with subclinical (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.38–1.93) or overt (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.22–3.20) hypothyroidism.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that low thyroid function, also within the clinically normal range, is associated with reduced GFR.
Economical Efficiency of a Non-Catalytic Alcoholysis Process for Production of Biodiesel Fuel
Authors: Nabetani Hiroshi , Hagiwara Shoji , Suzuki Yasuomi , Araki Tetsuya , Sagara Yasukuki , Miyano Yutaka , Tatara Masahiro , Goto Masafumi
Published: October 2010

Production of biodiesel fuel (fatty acid methyl ester) by use of conventional method (alkaline catalyst method) requires deacidification process prior to the reaction and refining process to remove the catalyst after the reaction. These processes increase total cost required for production of biodiesel fuel. In order to solve the problem, authors recently proposed a method called superheated methanol vapor method. In a process with this method, superheated methanol vapor is continuously bubbled into the oil in the reactor vessel and reacted with triglycerides to form fatty acid methyl ester and glycerol. The fatty acid methyl ester and glycerol formed flows out of the reactor together with unreacted methanol vapor and is collected using a condenser. Reaction using the superheated methanol vapor method can be conducted at atmospheric pressure. Production of fatty acid methyl ester by use of the superheated methanol vapor method does not require refining process after the reaction because no catalyst is used in this method and fatty acid methyl ester can be separated from glycerol simply by sedimentation. The method does not require deacidification process prior to the reaction because not only triglyceride but also free fatty acid can be converted into fatty acid methyl ester by use of the method. Therefore, both initial and running costs required for biodiesel production are thought to be reduced by applying the method. In order to estimate the cost required by a process based on the superheated methanol vapor method, a demonstration plant (design productivity: 400 L/d) was constructed and its efficiency was evaluated. The plant could produce 425 L of fatty acid methyl ester in a day from used frying oil. Energy consumed in each unit of the demonstration plant was measured (electrical energy and thermal energy). Based on the energy consumption data obtained with the demonstration plant, production cost required with a practical scale plant (designed productivity: 6000 kL/y) was calculated. The cost required by the practical scale plant with the superheated methanol vapor method was estimated to be 40.2 yen/L (about 40 cent/L) while the cost required by a plant with the alkaline catalyst method was 62.5 yen/L (about 62 cent/L). The estimated cost includes depreciation cost, cost of repairing, labor cost, methanol cost and energy cost (heat and electricity). Most of the energy consumed by the plant was thermal energy and the plant could be automatically controlled. Therefore, required cost will be further decreased by installing the plant next to an incineration facility because thermal energy can be supplied from the facility and the labor cost can also be supported by the facility.
Potential Energy Surface Calculations of Alanine Dipeptide using BVWN Density Functional Approach and 6-311G Basis Set
Authors: Singh Jyoti , Singh Subhash Chandra , Singh Narsingh Bahadur
Published: October 2010

This work is devoted to a study of the conformational properties of alanine dipeptide. We have studied potential energy surfaces of alanine dipeptide molecule using density functional theoretical approach with 6-311G basis set. For this purpose potential energies of this molecule are calculated as a function of Ramachandran angles φ and ψ, which are important factors for the characterizations of polypeptide chains. These degrees of freedoms φ and ψ are important for the characterization of protein folding systems. Stable conformations, energy barriers and reaction coordinates of this important dipeptide molecule are calculated. Energy required for the transition of one conformation into other are also discussed.
Development of Bentonite-Alginate Films for Enhancement in Cd(II) Removal
Authors: Teoh Wah Tzu , Tsuritani Takuma , Sato Kazunori
Published: October 2010

The comparison between bentonite-alginate beads and bentonite-alginate films in Cd(II) removal from aqueous solution was investigated. The experimental Cd(II) adsorption data were fitted to adsorption isotherm and kinetic models. Results showed that both bentonite-alginate film and beads were fitted better to the Langmuir isotherm model, the calculated saturation adsorption capacity for bentonite-alginate film was 59.9 mg/g as compared to 17.9 mg/g for the beads. The kinetic studies indicated that both samples followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic. The bentonite- alginate film showed higher adsorption capacity, rate constant as well as initial adsorption rate. This investigation showed that the adsorption behavior of both samples, in terms of adsorption isotherm and kinetic models, did not deviate significantly. The bentonite-alginate film has better performance in Cd(II) removal, attributed to the larger surface area which is exposed to the Cd(II) solution.
Metal-Ceramic Screw-Retained Implant Fixed Partial Denture With Intraoral Luted Framework to Improve Passive Fit
Authors: Baig Mirza Rustum , Gunaseelan Rajan
Published: October 2010

Passive fit of a long-span screw-retained implant prosthesis is an important criteria for the success of the restoration. This article describes a technique for fabricating a ceramometal implant fixed dental prosthesis (FDP) for a long-span partially edentulous situation by altering the conventional screw-retained design. The possibility of a passive fit is maximized by intraoral luting of the cast frame to milled abutments, and the potential framework distortion during fabrication is compensated to a major extent. Retrievability is ensured by screw retention of the prosthesis to the implants. Compared with conventional porcelain fused to metal screw-retained FDP, this prosthesis is relatively inexpensive to fabricate.
Edentulous Maxillary Arch Fixed Implant Rehabilitation Using a Hybrid Prosthesis Made of Micro-Ceramic-Composite: Case Report
Authors: Geckili Onur , Bilhan Hakan , Ceylan Gulsum , Cilingir Altug
Published: October 2010

The prosthetic treatment of patients with an edentulous maxilla opposing mandibular natural teeth is one of the most challenging endeavors that face clinicians. Occlusal forces from the opposing natural teeth may cause fractures in the maxillary prosthesis and also result in advanced bone loss of the edentulous maxilla. With the presence of extreme gagging reflex, the treatment may become more complicated. This article describes and illustrates the 2-stage surgical and prosthetic treatment of a patient with an edentulous maxilla opposing natural teeth. In the beginning, the patient was treated with 4 implants and a maxillary implant-supported overdenture. The extreme gagging reflex and the occlusal forces from the mandibular natural teeth obligated the team a second stage surgical and prosthetic treatment, which included increasing the number of implants after bilateral sinus lifting in the posterior maxilla and fabricating a maxillary fixed hybrid prosthesis made of micro-ceramic composite that yielded a satisfactory result.
Stress Analysis in Platform-Switching Implants: A 3-Dimensional Finite Element Study
Authors: Pellizzer Eduardo Piza , Verri Fellippo Ramos , Falcón-Antenucci Rosse Mary , Júnior Joel Ferreira Santiago , de Carvalho Paulo Sérgio Perri , de Moraes Sandra Lúcia Dantas , Noritomi Pedro Yoshito
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the platform-switching technique on stress distribution in implant, abutment, and peri-implant tissues, through a 3-dimensional finite element study. Three 3-dimensional mandibular models were fabricated using the SolidWorks 2006 and InVesalius software. Each model was composed of a bone block with one implant 10 mm long and of different diameters (3.75 and 5.00 mm). The UCLA abutments also ranged in diameter from 5.00 mm to 4.1 mm. After obtaining the geometries, the models were transferred to the software FEMAP 10.0 for pre- and postprocessing of finite elements to generate the mesh, loading, and boundary conditions. A total load of 200 N was applied in axial (0°), oblique (45°), and lateral (90°) directions. The models were solved by the software NeiNastran 9.0 and transferred to the software FEMAP 10.0 to obtain the results that were visualized through von Mises and maximum principal stress maps. Model A (implants with 3.75 mm/abutment with 4.1 mm) exhibited the highest area of stress concentration with all loadings (axial, oblique, and lateral) for the implant and the abutment. All models presented the stress areas at the abutment level and at the implant/abutment interface. Models B (implant with 5.0 mm/abutment with 5.0 mm) and C (implant with 5.0 mm/abutment with 4.1 mm) presented minor areas of stress concentration and similar distribution pattern. For the cortical bone, low stress concentration was observed in the peri-implant region for models B and C in comparison to model A. The trabecular bone exhibited low stress that was well distributed in models B and C. Model A presented the highest stress concentration. Model B exhibited better stress distribution. There was no significant difference between the large-diameter implants (models B and C).
Use of Intraoral Welding to Stabilize Dental Implants in Augmented Sites for Immediate Provisionalization: A Case Report
Authors: Avvanzo Pierluigi , Fabrocini Lelio A. , Ciavarella Domenico , Avvanzo Andrea , Muzio Lorenzo Lo , De Maio Raffaele A.
Published: October 2010

Immediate implant rehabilitation of edentulous arches may be somewhat problematic because of anatomic situations involving insufficient bone thickness or height and tooth position. The aim of this report was to present a retrospective case series of dental implants placed into augmented sites (split crest or sinus augmentation) that were stabilized with an intraorally welded framework at the time of immediate provisionalization. An intraoral welding unit was used to join and stabilize implants as an orthopedic splint to break down forces applied on provisional restorations during healing and osseointegration. This approach allows for the immediate provisionalization of implants in bone-defective areas where multiple implant systems have been enacted. Forty-eight implants in 16 patients were inserted, welded together to a titanium framework, and immediately provisionalized during the same surgery in which split-crest or sinus augmentation procedures were performed. After removing the welded frameworks, 1 of 48 implants failed; the failed implant was associated with a sinus augmentation procedure. Intraoral welding stabilization may be a predictable procedure to allow immediate loading in augmented areas during healing time and to stabilize implants against nonaxial forces, thereby reducing the number of surgical and prosthetic sessions and making patients comfortable and accustomed to immediate fixed provisional and definitive restorations.
Nasopalatine Canal Position Relative to the Maxillary Central Incisors: A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Assessment
Authors: Chatriyanuyoke Pakawat , Lu Chun-I , Suzuki Yusuke , Lozada Jaime L. , Rungcharassaeng Kitichai , Kan Joseph Y. K. , Goodacre Charles J.
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the proximity of the nasopalatine canal (NPC) to the maxillary central incisor root (MCIR). The study included 120 cone beam computed tomography scans obtained from the Center for Implant Dentistry, Loma Linda University, between June 2006 and September 2009. They were equally distributed into six groups: (1) 21- to 40-year-old men, (2) 21- to 40-year-old women, (3) 41- to 60-year-old men, (4) 41- to 60-year-old women, (5) 61- to 80-year-old men, and (6) 61- to 80-year-old women. The closest distances between the NPC and the MCIR (NPC-to-MCIR) were measured at the midroot (bisecting palatal cementoenamel junction to root apex) and the apex levels. Differences between the groups were analyzed using a t test and 1-way analysis of variance at a significance level of α = .05. The overall mean NPC-to-MCIR distances at the midroot and apex levels were 3.05 ± 1.64 and 5.22 ± 1.56 mm, respectively. The modes of the NPC-to-MCIR distances at the midroot and apex levels were in the range of 1.01–2.00 mm and 4.01–5.00 mm, respectively. The mean NPC-to-MCIR distance was significantly greater in men than in women at the midroot level (P < .05) but not at the apex level (P > .05). The mean NPC-to-MCIR distance was significantly shorter for the youngest age group than the other two age groups at the midroot level (P < .05). However, at the apex level, the youngest age group had a significantly shorter distance compared with the oldest age group (P < .05) but not the middle age group (P > .05). The results of this study suggest that, to avoid NPC penetration, more care must be exercised during immediate implant placement at the midroot level of a maxillary central incisor in women and younger patients because of the root proximity to the NPC. Tapered implants may also be beneficial in such situations.
Maxillofacial Anatomy: The Mandibular Symphysis
Authors: Miller Robert J. , Edwards Warren C. , Boudet Carlos , Cohen Jonathon H.
Published: October 2010

Placement of dental implants in the anterior mandible is considered by many clinicians to be a relatively low-risk procedure. However, hemorrhagic episodes following implant placement in the mandibular symphysis are regularly reported and can have serious consequences. The use of high-resolution focused cone beam scanners has given us the ability to visualize the intricate neurovascular network of the intraforaminal region without distortion and in greater detail. Knowledge of the arterial supply and navigated implant placement in the mandibular symphysis can help to avoid these potentially life-threatening emergencies.
Maintenance and Consolidation Therapy in Patients with Unresectable Stage III/IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Thatcher Nicholas , Heighway Jim
Published: October 2010

Globally, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Current chemotherapy combinations for the first-line treatment of advanced disease (stage IIIB with malignant pleural effusion/stage IV) and chemoradiotherapy regimens for the treatment of unresectable locally advanced disease (stage IIIA and IIIB without malignant pleural effusion) appear to have reached an efficacy plateau. The addition of new compounds including targeted agents to standard first-line cytotoxic doublets, administered concurrently and/or as maintenance therapy in patients who have not experienced disease progression after such treatment, has been shown to improve efficacy beyond this plateau in patients with advanced disease. However, to date, such approaches have been less successful in the treatment of patients with unresectable locally advanced stage III disease. The purpose of this review is to summarize the data from recent randomized phase III studies involving agents administered as maintenance or consolidation therapy in the treatment of unresectable stage III/IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A possible alternative approach to the use of cytotoxic or molecularly targeted agents in this setting is the administration of therapeutic anticancer vaccines, which are designed to stimulate a host immunological response against the tumor. Current data in relation to the potential of vaccine therapy for NSCLC are therefore also reviewed, with a particular focus on belagenpumatucel-L and L-BLP25 vaccines, which are currently undergoing phase III evaluation as maintenance therapies in patients with unresectable stage III/IV NSCLC who have tumor control following first-line therapy.
Tolerability, Efficacy, and Safety of Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Combination with Carboplatin Versus Gemcitabine–Carboplatin for the Treatment of Platinum-Sensitive Recurrent Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Holloway Robert W. , Grendys Edward C. , Lefebvre Patrick , Vekeman Francis , McMeekin Scott
Published: October 2010

Objective.

To compare the tolerability, efficacy, and safety profiles of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in combination with carboplatin (PLD–Carbo) with those of gemcitabine–carboplatin (Gem–Carbo) for the treatment of patients with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (PSROC) by reviewing the published literature.

Methods.

Using the PubMed database, a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature published between January 2000 and September 2009 was undertaken to identify studies related to the treatment of patients with PSROC with PLD–Carbo or Gem–Carbo. Studies reporting either response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), and/or overall survival (OS) were included. Treatment regimens, efficacy endpoints, and safety profiles were compared between the two combination therapies.

Results.

Ten studies evaluating 608 patients (PLD–Carbo: 5 studies, 278 patients; Gem–Carbo: 5 studies, 330 patients) were identified. The mean planned doses were: PLD, 34.8 mg/m2 and Gem, 993 mg/m2. The dose intensity reported in Gem trials was lower (75% of the planned dose) than the dose intensity reported in PLD trials (93.7% of the planned dose), suggesting better tolerability for the PLD–Carbo regimen. Among patients receiving PLD–Carbo, 60.2% achieved a response (complete, 27.0%; partial, 33.2%), versus 51.4% of patients treated with Gem–Carbo (complete, 19.2%; partial, 32.2%). The median PFS times were 10.6 months and 8.9 months in the PLD–Carbo and the Gem–Carbo populations, respectively. The median OS was longer for the PLD–Carbo regimen (27.1 months) than for the Gem–Carbo regimen (19.7 months). The hematological safety profiles were comparable in the two groups, although grade III or IV anemia (PLD–Carbo, 13.6%; Gem–Carbo, 24.5%) and neutropenia (PLD–Carbo, 45.5%; Gem–Carbo, 62.9%) were more common in patients receiving Gem–Carbo.

Conclusion.

Results from this systematic analysis of peer-reviewed literature suggest that PLD–Carbo therapy is a rational alternative to Gem–Carbo for the treatment of patients with PSROC.