bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic significance and therapeutic potential of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A (eIF5A) in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lee Nikki P. , Tsang Felice H. , Shek Felix H. , Mao Mao , Dai Hongyue , Zhang Chunsheng , Dong Suisui , Guan Xin‐yuan , Poon Ronnie T.P. , Luk John M.
Published: December 2009

Using comparative proteomic and genomic approaches, the authors identified eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A (eIF5A) as an oncofetal molecule highly abundant in mouse embryonic livers and human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines. To evaluate the oncogenic role and prognostic significance of eIF5A in HCC, we investigate the expression patterns of the two isoforms (eIF5A1 and eIF5A2) in a cohort of 258 HCC cases by cDNA microarray. Both eIF5A isoforms were expressed in the tumors, and clinically correlated eIF5A1 with more numbers of tumor nodules and eIF5A2 with tumor venous infiltration in HCC. In a separate cohort of 50 HCCs, high level of eIF5A2, but not eIF5A1, was associated with elevated levels of deoxyhypusine synthase and deoxyhypusine hydroxylase that catalyze post‐translational hypusination of eIF5A protein. Interestingly, N1‐guanyl‐1,7‐diaminoheptane (GC7), which is an inhibitor for the first step of eIF5A hypusination, was shown to significantly impair the cell proliferation and invasion of primary HCC cells (HepG2 and Hep3B). To further demonstrate the tumorigenic role associated with eIF5A, a drastic reduction of cell proliferation was associated with suppression of eIF5A2 by transfecting Hep3B, H2‐P and H2‐M HCC cells expressing high level of this isoform using small interfering RNA (siRNA) against eIF5A2. For these assays, a milder response was usually observed in normal hepatocyte cell line. Therefore, these findings suggest that eIF5A plays an important role in HCC tumorigenesis and metastasis, and targeting eIF5A hypusination by GC7 inhibitor or eIF5A2 by RNA interference (RNAi) may offer new therapeutic alternatives to HCC patients.
Methylation of histone H3 and H4 by PRMT5 regulates ribosomal RNA gene transcription
Authors: Majumder Sarmila , Alinari Lapo , Roy Satavisha , Miller Tyler , Datta Jharna , Sif Said , Baiocchi Robert , Jacob Samson T
Published: December 2009

In an effort to understand the epigenetic regulation of ribosomal RNA gene (rDNA) expression we have previously demonstrated the role of DNA methyltransferases and methyl CpG binding proteins in rRNA synthesis. Here, we studied the role of protein arginine methyltransferase PRMT5 and the two methylated histones H3R8Me2 and H4R3Me2, in rDNA expression in Epstein Barr virus‐ transformed primary B‐cells (LCLs) and in HeLa cells responding to serum‐regulated growth. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed that histones H3 and H4 associated with rRNA promoters were differentially methylated at arginine residues 8 and 3, respectively, depending on its transcriptional activity. Association of PRMT5 and methylated H3 with the unmethylated promoters in resting B‐cells was significantly reduced in rapidly growing LCLs. Unlike PRMT5 and H3R8Me2, histone H4 associated with both methylated and unmethylated rRNA promoters in resting B‐cells was methylated at the R3 residue. However, a dramatic decrease in R3 methylation of H4 recruited to the unmethylated rRNA promoters was observed in LCLs while it remained unaltered in the fraction bound to the methylated promoters. Differential interaction of PRMT5 and methylation of H3 and H4 associated with the rRNA promoters was also observed when serum starved HeLa cells were allowed to grow in serum replenished media. Ectopic expression of PRMT5 suppressed activity of both unmethylated and methylated rRNA promoter in transient transfection assay whereas siRNA mediated knockdown of PRMT5 increased rRNA synthesis in HeLa cells. These data suggest a key role of PRMT5 and the two methylated histones in regulating rRNA promoter activity. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 553–563, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Connectivity keeping paths in k‐connected graphs
Authors: Mader W.
Published: December 2009

A result of G. Chartrand, A. Kaugars, and D. R. Lick [Proc Amer Math Soc 32 (1972), 63–68] says that every finite, k‐connected graph G of minimum degree at least ⌊3k/2⌋ contains a vertex x such that G−x is still k‐connected. We generalize this result by proving that every finite, k‐connected graph G of minimum degree at least ⌊3k/2⌋+m−1 for a positive integer m contains a path P of length m−1 such that G−V(P) is still k‐connected. This has been conjectured in a weaker form by S. Fujita and K. Kawarabayashi [J Combin Theory Ser B 98 (2008), 805–811]. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 65: 61–69, 2010.
Antifouling poly(vinylidene fluoride) ultrafiltration membranes containing amphiphilic comb polymer additive
Authors: Koh Jong Kwan , Kim Yong Woo , Ahn Sung Hoon , Min Byoung Ryul , Kim Jong Hak
Published: December 2009

An amphiphilic comb polymer consisting of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐chlorotrifluoroethylene) [P(VDF‐co‐CTFE)] main chains and poly(oxyethylene methacrylate) (POEM) side chains was synthesized using direct initiation of the chlorine atoms in CTFE units through atom transfer radical polymerization, as confirmed by 1H NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. The P(VDF‐co‐CTFE)‐g‐POEM comb polymer was introduced as an additive to prepare poly(vinylidene fluoride) antifouling ultrafiltration membranes. As the contents of comb polymer increased, the mechanical properties of membranes slightly decreased due to the decreased crystallinity of the membranes, as revealed by universal testing machine and X‐ray diffraction. However, water contact angle measurement and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the hydrophilic POEM segments spontaneously segregated on the membrane surfaces. As a result, the antifouling property of the membranes containing P(VDF‐co‐CTFE)‐g‐POEM comb polymer was considerably improved with a slight change of water flux. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 48: 183–189, 2010
HNF1B and JAZF1 genes, diabetes, and prostate cancer risk
Authors: Stevens Victoria L. , Ahn Jiyoung , Sun Juzhong , Jacobs Eric J. , Moore Steven C. , Patel Alpa V. , Berndt Sonja I. , Albanes Demetrius , Hayes Richard B.
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND

Epidemiologic studies have shown that men with type II diabetes have a lower risk of prostate cancer than non‐diabetic men. Recently, common variants in two genes, HNF1B and JAZF1, were found to be associated with both of these diseases.

METHODS

We examined whether the relationship between HNF1B and JAZF1 variants and decreased prostate cancer risk may potentially be mediated through diabetes in two large prospective studies, the Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort and the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial.

RESULTS

Three HNF1B SNPS, rs11649743, rs4430796, and rs7501939, were associated with decreased risk of prostate cancer and were also associated, with marginal statistical significance, with increased risk of diabetes. The JAZF1 SNPs rs6968704 and rs10486567 were associated with decreased risk of prostate cancer but were not associated with diabetes. All five SNP–prostate cancer relationships did not substantially differ when the analyses were stratified by diabetic status or when diabetic status was controlled for in the model. Furthermore, the association of diabetes with prostate cancer was not altered when the SNPs were included in the logistic model.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that the HNF1B variants are directly associated with both diabetes and prostate cancer, that diabetes does not mediate these gene variant–prostate cancer relationships, and the relationship between these diseases is not mediated through these gene variants. Prostate 70: 601–607, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Degradation of InGaN‐based laser diodes due to increased non‐radiative recombination rate
Authors: Trivellin N. , Meneghini M. , Zanoni E. , Meneghesso G. , Orita K. , Yuri M. , Tanaka T. , Ueda D.
Published: December 2009

With this paper we analyze the correlation between the degradation of InGaN‐based laser diodes (LDs) and the increase in the non‐radiative recombination rate in the active region. Several 405 nm MOCVD LDs have been submitted to CW stress, for 2000 h (stress current in the range 40–100 mA, case temperature = 75 °C). During stress, we extensively evaluated the optical characteristics of the LDs: a technique for the evaluation of the non‐radiative recombination lifetime (τnr) in the active material was developed and used for the analysis of the stress effects. We demonstrate the following: (1) degradation determines the increase in LDs threshold current (Ith) and the decrease in the τnr; (2) degradation of Ith and τnr have similar kinetics; and (3) the degradation rate of the LDs is almost linearly related to the stress current level. The degradation process is therefore ascribed to the decrease of internal quantum efficiency caused by the increase of the non‐radiative recombination rate in the active region.
Preface: Phys. Status Solidi C 6/12
Authors: Krotkus Arūnas , Valušis Gintaras , Adomavičius Ramūnas
Published: December 2009

This issue contains a selection of papers presented at the 15th International Semiconducting and Insulating Materials Conference (SIMC‐XV), held at the Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania, from 15 to 19 June 2009. It was jointly organized by the Semiconductor Physics Institute and the Vilnius University, both in Vilnius, Lithuania. SIMC‐XV is the latest in a biennial conference series, initiated in 1980 in Nottingham, UK. This conference has a long history of providing a forum for exchanging ideas for researchers active in the fields of semiconducting and insulating materials. Over its 29 year long history, during which SIMC was held in 11 countries on 4 continents, one feature has not changed: it is a premier conference series that builds bridges between experts investigating material technology, their properties, and device applications.

SIMC‐XV was attended by about 100 people from 22 countries. The technical sessions encompassed many new and developing topics, which included wide bandgap compound semiconductors, diluted nitride and bismide compounds, low dimensional semiconductor nanostructures, and complex oxide materials. The conference was arranged into 16 oral sessions that included 22 invited talks presented by distinguished experts in their fields and 39 contributed talks. 35 more contributions were presented as posters. The selection of the papers presented in this volume reflects the multidisciplinary and multinational nature of the SIMC series.

We offer our thanks to all members of the conference committees staff and students of the Semiconductor Physics Institute and all the SIMC‐XV participants for their contributions to the success of the conference. We are especially indebted to Dr. Renata Butkutė, Dr. Vaidas Pačebutas, and Prof. Kęstutis Jarašiūnas for their invaluable help in organizing the conference. Our acknowledgements also go to our sponsors – Lithuanian Physical Society, Vilnius University, Lithuanian State Science and Studies Foundation, Office of Naval Research Global, TECO René Koch, Labochema, SVT Associates, Inc., Veeco, TeraVil, and EKSPLA for their financial support that has made SIMC‐XV possible.

We wish Prof. Sebastian Lourdudoss, the chair of SIMC‐XVI, success in organizing the next conference in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2011 (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Neue Verbund‐Schrägseilbrücken (BW 29 und 4) im Zuge der BAB 30 – Nordumgehung Bad Oeynhausen
Authors: Frickel Jörg , Schubart Ralf , Hamme Markus , Fischer Tobias
Published: December 2009

Zur Zeit befindet sich der Lückenschluss der BAB 30 als sogenannte Nordumgehung Bad Oeynhausen im Bau. In diesem Rahmen werden am östlichen und westlichen Ende der Nordumgehung die Bauwerke 29 und 4 erstellt. Hierbei handelt es sich um Schrägseilbrücken in Verbaundbauweise, welche architektonische Landmarken an den Enden der Nordumgehung Bad Oeynhausen setzen. Beide Bauwerke überführen die BAB 30 über den Fluss Werre. Die Stromöffnungen betragen ca. 68 m bzw. ca. 83 m und sind damit für Schrägseilbrücken vergleichsweise gering. Aufgrund der Lage im Krümmungsbereich, der örtlichen Randbedingungen (u. a. große Schiefe wegen des Kreuzungswinkels) sowie des FFH‐Status der Werre ergab sich im Rahmen der Entwurfsplanung eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabenstellung. Trotz eines ähnlichen Erscheinungsbildes unterscheiden sich beide Bauwerke jedoch maßgeblich in ihrer Konstruktion durch die Anzahl der Seilebenen und die Ausbildung der Seilquerträger. Der Aufsatz beschreibt die wesentlichen statisch‐konstruktiven Besonderheiten der Bauwerke aus Sicht der Entwurfsverfasser.

New cable‐stayed bridges (Structure 29 and 4) in the course of the Autobahn A 30 – Northern bypass at Bad Oeynhausen.

Closing a gap in the course of the Autobahn A 30, the Northern bypass at Bad Oeynhausen is currently under construction. Within this project two cable‐stayed bridges, Structure 29 and 4, are being constructed at the Western and Eastern ends of the bypass. The bridges are of composite construction and they have been architecturally designed to form landmarks at the respective ends of the Bad Oeynhausen bypass. Both structures carry the Autobahn A 30 across the river Werre. The main spans measure 68 m and 83 m respectively and are thus fairly short for cable‐stayed bridges. Due to the location in curved sections of the Autobahn, local constraints (such as a large skew because of the crossing angle) and the Werre being a nature reserve with FFH status, the structural design has been a demanding task. In spite of having a similar appearance both structures differ significantly in number of cable planes and the construction of the transversal girder for cable anchorages. This article describes the distinctive features of both bridges from a static and structural point‐of‐view.
Verbund‐Opferzellen zum Schutz von Stützen bei Nahdetonation
Authors: Rutner Marcus P. , Albrecht Gert
Published: December 2009

Lasttragende Bauteile wie Erdgeschossstützen von Hochhäusern oder Brückenpfeiler, ausgeführt als Verbundkonstruktion, gewährleisten vermehrten Schutz bei Nahdetonation. Opferzellen, die um den Stützenquerschnitt konstruiert sind, schaffen zusätzliche Sicherheit. Sie bewirken, dass die Anströmfläche der Stütze erst bei relativ hohen reflektierten Drücken einreißt – meist an der Geländeoberkante. Untersucht wird, welcher Opferzellenquerschnitt durch Druckverteilung und Energieabsorption einen effektiven Schutz der abgeschirmten lasttragenden Stütze bietet. Außerdem wird der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit der schichtweise alternierende Aufbau von verformbarem Material geringerer Dichte und von massigem Material hoher Steifigkeit im Opferzellenquerschnitt durch Impedanzfehlanpassung die lasttragende Stütze schützt. Impedanzfehlanpassung führt zu einer verstärkten Reflexion der Schockwellen und dadurch zu einer Reduzierung ihrer Transmission. Eine Schockwellenreflektion innerhalb des Opferzellenquerschnitts wirkt sich folglich günstig auf die zu schützende Konstruktion aus.

Die Ergebnisse veranschaulichen das Schutzpotential und die Wirksamkeit von Opferzellen im Vergleich zu anderen Schutzmaßnahmen wie der Verwendung nachgiebiger Auflagerbedingungen und der Variation des Stützenquerschnitts. Die in Vergleichsberechnungen gewonnenen Erkenntnisse werden in einem Bemessungsdiagramm zusammengefasst. Die Resttragfähigkeit der Stütze wird als Indikator für die Effektivität der untersuchten Schutztechnologien vorgestellt.

Multi‐layer composite sacrificial cells to protect columns against close‐standoff blast.

Composite cross sections have been shown to be generally well suited for constructing explosion‐resistant load‐bearing structural members, such as columns or bridge piers, with high protection demands. Composite sacrificial cells which are built around the member's cross section enhance the protection of columns and piers exposed to high dynamic loading. Due to energy absorption outside the load‐carrying cross section the reflected pressure and induced shock wave are significantly reduced. It is investigated whether the layer sequence of two distinct materials (a less dense, more deformable material versus one that is denser and stiffer) is measurably different for protection of other material layers including the structural member's inner core. We also study whether shock wave reflection and reduced transmission of shock waves, achieved with specific material layering in sacrificial cells, practically result in significant protection of the underlying structure.

We also compare the protection potential of sacrificial cells with the effectiveness of other protective measures such as the variation of boundary condition and the cross section design. The paper finalizes with an elaborate design diagram which summarizes the residual axial capacity of columns after the blast event and the extent of damage when using sacrificial cells.
Efficiency of active systems in controlling base‐isolated buildings subjected to near‐fault earthquakes
Authors: Mehrparvar Behnam , Khoshnoudian Faramarz
Published: December 2009

It has been pointed out that base‐isolated structures may be vulnerable during near‐fault earthquakes and special considerations are required in the design of isolated structures in near‐fault areas. This paper investigates the efficiency of active control systems in reducing the responses of base‐isolated structures with various isolation parameters. The design of hybrid control systems using base isolation and active systems are optimized in order to accomplish different design purposes. Also for some cases, equivalent passive control systems are introduced which result in comparable responses with respect to hybrid control systems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potential Relationships Between Fatty Acid Compositions and Phytochemicals of Selected Low Linolenic Soybeans Grown in Maryland
Authors: Whent Monica , Slavin Margaret , Kenworthy William , Yu Liangli
Published: December 2009

Eight soybean genotypes grown in Maryland were analyzed for total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, isoflavone composition, lutein content, tocopherol composition, and fatty acid profile. The soybean samples consisted of seven low α‐linolenic (18:3n‐3) genotypes and 1 standard genotype for comparison. 18:3n‐3 levels were positively correlated with palmitic acid (16:0) content, and negatively correlated with oleic acid (18:1n‐9) concentration. Daidzein and genistein concentrations were positively correlated with 18:3n‐3 levels. α‐Tocopherol, γ‐tocopherol, and total tocopherol contents were negatively correlated with that for 18:3n‐3. Two of the reduced 18:3n‐3 genotypes contained significantly higher lutein levels than the non‐modified genotype. All genotypes contained similar antioxidant capacity to the non‐modified genotype. There were not significant differences among genotypes in relative 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH·) scavenging capacity or oxygen radical absorbing capacity. No correlation was observed between 18:3n‐3 and antioxidant capacity. The results of this study show that the Maryland‐grown low 18:3n‐3 soybeans are sources of phytochemicals and antioxidants with potential health benefits. Specific genotypes may be selected for food production to obtain the most desirable combination of nutritional, nutraceutical, and chemical properties. The reduction in 18:3n‐3 may also influence the levels of other fatty acids and antioxidant compounds in soybeans.
GLUT4 molecules are recruited at random for insertion within the plasma membrane upon insulin stimulation
Authors: Berenguer Marion , Marchand-Brustel Yannick Le , Govers Roland
Published: December 2009

Glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) is efficiently retained intracellularly. Here, we investigated the insulin‐induced reduction of retention. While increasing insulin concentrations led to gradual increases in both the amount of recycling GLUT4 molecules and cell surface GLUT4 levels, the kinetics of the increase in time was independent of insulin concentration. To determine whether there are GLUT4 subpools that have a distinct insulin sensitivity, adipocytes were consecutively stimulated twice with a low concentration of insulin while recycling GLUT4 molecules were continuously labeled. This revealed that not the same pool of GLUT4 molecules was mobilized twice and thus that upon insulin stimulation, GLUT4 is likely to be recruited at random for insertion within the plasma membrane.
Mcl‐1128–350 fragment induces apoptosis through direct interaction with Bax
Authors: Ménoret Emmanuelle , Gomez-Bougie Patricia , Surget Sylvanie , Trichet Valérie , Oliver Lisa , Pellat-Deceunynck Catherine , Amiot Martine
Published: December 2009

MINT‐7307171: F1 ATPase (uniprotkb:Q5TC12), Mcl‐1 (uniprotkb:Q07820) and BAX (uniprotkb:Q07812) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation through density gradients (MI:0029)
Myosin 1G (Myo1G) is a haematopoietic specific myosin that localises to the plasma membrane and regulates cell elasticity
Authors: Olety Balaji , Wälte Mike , Honnert Ulrike , Schillers Hermann , Bähler Martin
Published: December 2009

MINT‐7307273: MYO1G (uniprotkb:B0I1T2) and Actin (uniprotkb:P60709) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416) MINT‐7307283: TfR (uniprotkb:P02786) and MYO1G (uniprotkb:B0I1T2) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation through density gradients (MI:0029)
Analysis of general creeping motion of a sphere inside a cylinder
Authors: BHATTACHARYA SUKALYAN , MISHRA COLUMBIA , BHATTACHARYA SONAL
Published: December 2009

In this paper, we develop an efficient procedure to solve for the Stokesian fields around a spherical particle in viscous fluid bounded by a cylindrical confinement. We use our method to comprehensively simulate the general creeping flow involving the particle-conduit system. The calculations are based on the expansion of a vector field in terms of basis functions with separable form. The separable form can be applied to obtain general reflection relations for a vector field at simple surfaces. Such reflection relations enable us to solve the flow equation with specified conditions at different disconnected bodies like the sphere and the cylinder. The main focus of this article is to provide a complete description of the dynamics of a spherical particle in a cylindrical vessel. For this purpose, we consider the motion of a sphere in both quiescent fluid and pressure-driven parabolic flow. Firstly, we determine the force and torque on a translating-rotating particle in quiescent fluid in terms of general friction coefficients. Then we assume an impending parabolic flow, and calculate the force and torque on a fixed sphere as well as the linear and angular velocities of a freely moving particle. The results are presented for different radial positions of the particle and different ratios between the sphere and the cylinder radius. Because of the generality of the procedure, there is no restriction in relative dimensions, particle positions and directions of motion. For the limiting cases of geometric parameters, our results agree with the ones obtained by past researchers using different asymptotic methods.
Effectiveness of the immunomodulatory extract of Kalanchoe pinnata against murine visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: GOMES D. C. O. , MUZITANO M. F. , COSTA S. S. , ROSSI-BERGMANN B.
Published: December 2009

Previously, we described the protective action of the immunomodulatory extract of Kalanchoe pinnata (Kp) in murine and human cutaneous leishmaniasis. In the present study, we investigated the effectiveness of Kp against visceral leishmaniasis, using the BALB/c mouse model of infection with Leishmania chagasi. Mice receiving oral daily doses of Kp (400 mg/kg) for 30 days displayed significantly reduced hepatic and splenic parasite burden, when compared with untreated animals. Protectiveness was accompanied by a reduction in parasite-specific IgG serum levels, and impaired capacity of spleen cells to produce IL-4, but not IFN-γ and nitric oxide upon antigen recall in vitro. The reference drug Pentostam (72 mg/kg) given by the intra-peritoneal route on alternate days produced an anti-leishmanial effect similar to oral Kp. Our findings show that the oral efficacy of Kp, seen previously in murine cutaneous leishmaniasis, extends also to visceral leishmaniasis caused by L. chagasi, a difficult to treat and lethal disease of man.
NewTrypanosoma (Duttonella) vivaxgenotypes from tsetse flies in East Africa
Authors: ADAMS E. R. , HAMILTON P. B. , RODRIGUES A. C. , MALELE I. I. , DELESPAUX V. , TEIXEIRA M. M. G. , GIBSON W.
Published: December 2009

Salivarian trypanosomes pose a substantial threat to livestock, but their full diversity is not known. To survey trypanosomes carried by tsetse in Tanzania, DNA samples from infected proboscides ofGlossina pallidipesandG. swynnertoniwere identified using fluorescent fragment length barcoding (FFLB), which discriminates species by size polymorphisms in multiple regions of the ribosomal RNA locus. FFLB identified the trypanosomes in 65 of 105 (61·9%) infected proboscides, revealing 9 mixed infections. Of 7 different FFLB profiles, 2 were similar but not identical to reference West AfricanTrypanosoma vivax; 5 other profiles belonged to known species also identified in fly midguts. Phylogenetic analysis of the glycosomal glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase gene revealed that the TanzanianT. vivaxsamples fell into 2 distinct groups, both outside the main clade of African and South AmericanT. vivax. These newT. vivaxgenotypes were common and widespread in tsetse in Tanzania. TheT. brucei-like trypanosome previously described from tsetse midguts was also found in 2 proboscides, demonstrating a salivarian transmission route. Investigation of mammalian host range and pathogenicity will reveal the importance of these new trypanosomes for the epidemiology and control of animal trypanosomiasis in East Africa.
Endocrine effects of the tapewormLigula intestinalisin its teleost host, the roach (Rutilus rutilus)
Authors: GERAUDIE P. , BOULANGE-LECOMTE C. , GERBRON M. , HINFRAY N. , BRION F. , MINIER C.
Published: December 2009

The effects of parasite infection by the cestodeLigula intestinalison the reproductive function and endocrine system of wild roachRutilus rutiluswere evaluated. Gonad maturation, plasma vitellogenin, plasma steroid concentrations (i.e. progesterone, 11-keto-testosterone and 17-β-estradiol) and brain aromatase activity were investigated in relation with parasitization. A low prevalence (8%) of ligulosed roach and a moderate impact of parasitization (mean parasitization index of 8·8%) were found in the studied population. Inhibition of gonad maturation generally resulted from infestation but 5% of the ligulosed roach nevertheless reached maturity. Main sex steroid plasma content was depleted in both genders. Male 11-keto-testosterone, female 17-β-estradiol and progesterone plasma concentrations of both genders were, respectively, 27, 5 and 3 times lower in ligulosed fish when compared to their non-infected counterparts. Progesterone levels were negatively correlated with the parasitization index in females. Brain aromatase activity of infected roach was reduced to 50% of that of the non-infected fish. These results demonstrate significant negative effects on the reproductive function of wild roach infected by the tapewormL. intestinaliscollected from a site with low contamination.
Triggering and modulation of the host-parasite interplay byEchinococcus multilocularis: a review
Authors: MEJRI N. , HEMPHILL A. , GOTTSTEIN B.
Published: December 2009

As more facts emerge regarding the ways in whichE. multilocularis-derived molecules trigger the host immune response and modulate the host-parasite interplay, it becomes possible to envisage how the parasite can survive and proliferate in its intermediate host, while in other hosts it dies out. Through effects on cells of both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune response,E. multiloculariscan orchestrate a range of outcomes that are beneficial not only to the parasite, in terms of facilitating its intrahepatic proliferation and maturation, and thus life cycle over all, but also to its intermediate host, in limiting pathology. The present review deals with the role of metacestode surface molecules as well as excretory/secretory (E/S) metabolic products of the parasite in the modulation of the host responses such as to optimize its own survival.
Echinococcus multilocularisas an experimental model in stem cell research and molecular host-parasite interaction
Authors: BREHM K.
Published: December 2009

Totipotent somatic stem cells (neoblasts) are key players in the biology of flatworms and account for their amazing regenerative capability and developmental plasticity. During recent years, considerable progress has been made in elucidating molecular features of neoblasts from free-living flatworms, whereas their role in parasitic species has so far merely been addressed by descriptive studies. Very recently, however, significant advances have been made in thein vitroculture of neoblasts from the cestodeEchinococcus multilocularis. The isolated cells proved capable of generating mature metacestode vesicles under laboratory conditions in a manner that closely resembles the oncosphere-metacestode transition during natural infections. Using the established neoblast cultivation protocols, combined with targeted manipulation ofEchinococcusgenes by RNA-interference, several fundamental questions of host-dependent parasite development can now be addressed. Here, I give an overview of current cultivation techniques forE. multilocularisneoblasts and present experimental approaches to study their function. Furthermore, I introduce theE. multilocularisgenome sequencing project that is presently in an advanced stage. The combined input of data from theE. multilocularissequencing project, stem cell cultivation, and recently initiated attempts to genetically manipulateEchinococcuswill provide an ideal platform for hypothesis-driven research into cestode development in the next years.
Laser pulse compression and amplification via Raman backscattering in plasma
Authors: Sharma Ashutosh , Kourakis Ioannis
Published: December 2009

A simple theoretical model is proposed for the interaction between two counter-propagating laser pulses (a pump and a seed pulse) in unmagnetized plasma. Pulse compression and amplification are observed via numerical simulation. A one dimensional fluid model for stimulated Raman backscattering is proposed to investigate the pulse compression and pulse amplification mechanisms. To accomplish this, energy is transferred from the long pump pulse to a seed pulse, with a Langmuir plasma wave mediating the transfer. The study focuses on the intensity profile of the pump laser pulse. A Gaussian and a ring intensity profile are, separately, considered for the pump laser pulse.
An ultrasound-directed robotic system for microwave ablation of liver cancer
Authors: Huang Qiang , Bian Gui-bin , Duan Xing-guang , Zhao Hong-hua , Liang Ping
Published: December 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which leads to more than one million deaths every year in the world, is the second most common malignancy in China. As microwave ablation (MWA) is an effective method for the treatment of liver cancer, an ultrasound-directed (US-directed) robotic system was designed to assist surgeons on positioning the needle. This interventional robotic system includes a 5-DOF needle-guiding robot, a conventional 2D ultrasound device, a workstation for path planning and image processing and an electromagnetic tracking device. In clinical environments, we first use real-time freehand 3D ultrasound reconstruction and image analysis methods to attain tumour position, and then manipulate the guiding hole of the robot to position the needle affirmed by the surgeon. Finally, the feasibility of the interventional robotic system are validated by experimental results.
Robot-assisted MRI-guided prostatic interventions
Authors: Goldenberg Andrew A. , Trachtenberg John , Yi Yang , Weersink Robert , Sussman Marshall S. , Haider Masoom , Ma Liang , Kucharczyk Walter
Published: December 2009

This paper reports on recent progress made toward the development of a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-compatible robot-assisted surgical system for closed-bore image-guided prostatic interventions: thermal ablation, radioactive seed implants (brachytherapy), and biopsy. Each type of intervention will be performed with a different image-guided, robot-based surgical tool mounted on the same MRI-guided robot through a modular trocar. The first stage of this development addresses only laser-based focal ablation. The robot mechanical structure, modular surgical trocar, control architecture, and current stage of performance evaluation in the MRI environment are presented. The robot actuators are ultrasonic motors. A methodology of using such motors in the MRI environment is presented. The robot prototype with surgical ablation tool is undergoing tests on phantoms in the MRI bore. The tests cover MRI compatibility, image visualization, robot accuracy, and thermal mapping. To date, (i) the images are artifact- and noise-free for certain scanning pulse sequences; (ii) the robot tip positioning error is less than 1.2 mm even at positions closer than 0.3 m from the MRI isocenter; (iii) penetration toward the target is image-monitored in near-real time; and (iv) thermal ablation and temperature mapping are achieved using a laser delivered on an optical fiber and MRI, respectively.
A hybrid robot system for CT-guided surgery
Authors: Liu Da , Wang Tianmiao , Tang Can , Zhang Fan
Published: December 2009

The common serial robot or parallel robot is difficult to implement for CT-guided surgery in a limited workspace. A novel hybrid robot with 9 degrees of freedom is presented in this paper, whose detailed structure is analysed based on screw theory and displacement manifold (DM). The dexterity of the hybrid robot is provided in terms of Riemann manifold (RM). Besides, DICOM (digital imaging communications in medicine) image processing, spatial registration and 3D dynamic reconstruction in the operation planning subsystem are analysed, in which some innovative methods are introduced. Meanwhile, the architecture of the CT-guided hybrid robot system and its subsystems are proposed. Simulative clinical experiment showed that the locating precision of the hybrid robot reaches 1.08 mm, which can meet the requirement of CT-guided surgery.
On the kinematics of the 3-

R

RUR spherical parallel manipulator
Authors: Deidda R. , Mariani A. , Ruggiu M.
Published: December 2009

In the present paper, the kinematics of a three-degree-of-freedom spherical wrist is investigated. The wrist consists of a fixed base connected to a moving platform by three identical legs, each with a RRUR chain (R and U denote a revolute pair and a universal pair, respectively). For each leg, the first R pair is to be considered actuated. Although in previous works the kinematics synthesis of this architecture was carried out, no detailed studies were presented on the kinematic issues of the wrist. This paper presents the mobility analysis, the direct and inverse position kinematics, the differential kinematics of the manipulator including inspection on the jacobian matrix and the analysis of the singularities. The geometrical condition matched in case of mechanical interference between legs is addressed, too. A numerical example of the manipulator kinematics was performed to obtain the workspace, the condition number and the mechanical inteference condition.
Sugar and fat intake among children in Scotland: what is needed to reach the dietary targets?
Authors: McNeill Geraldine , Masson Lindsey F , Craig Leone CA , Macdiarmid Jennie I , Holmes Bridget A , Nelson Michael , Sheehy Christine
Published: December 2009

Objective

To assess the intake and sources of non-milk extrinsic sugars (NMES) and fat among children in Scotland in relation to socio-economic status, and to estimate the changes in diet required to achieve recommended levels of intake.

Design

Cross-sectional survey with diet assessed by semi-quantitative FFQ.

Setting

Eighty postcode sectors across Scotland.

Subjects

Children (n 1398) aged 3–17 years recruited from the Child Benefit register (76 % of those contacted).

Results

The mean intake of NMES of 17·4 (95 % CI 17·0, 17·8) % food energy was considerably higher than the UK recommended population average of 11 % food energy. The mean intake of total fat of 32·9 (95 % CI 32·7, 33·2) % food energy met the recommended population average of no more than 35 % food energy, while the mean intake of SFA of 13·8 (95 % CI 13·7, 14·0) % food energy was above the recommended population average of no more than 11 % food energy. Despite clear socio-economic gradients in the mean daily consumption of many ‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’ food groups, socio-economic differences in NMES as a percentage of food energy were limited and there was no significant variation in the intake of total fat or SFA as a percentage of food energy with socio-economic status. Modelling of the data showed that removing sugar-sweetened soft drinks and increasing fruit and vegetable intake by 50 % would not restore the intake of NMES and SFA to recommended levels.

Conclusions

Major changes in the intake of many food groups will be required to bring the NMES and saturated fat intake in line with current dietary recommendations.
Carotid artery stenting: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Knur
Published: December 2009

Carotid occlusive disease is responsible for a significant proportion of major adverse cardiovascular events (death, stroke, myocardial infarction). Effective prevention by means of revascularization is a sufficient treatment, if performed at a center with an acceptably low procedural complication rate. Carotid surgery is the currently accepted standard of treatment for revascularization of extra cranial carotid occlusive disease. This has been validated by randomized clinical trials that have demonstrated its efficacy over best medical therapy. However, less invasive protected carotid artery stenting (CAS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic alternative to carotid endarterectomy (CEA) for the treatment of carotid atherosclerotic disease. Over the past decade several clinical trials have compared endovascular with surgical treatment. The Stenting and Angioplasty with Protection in Patients at High Risk for Endarterectomy (SAPPHIRE) trial favored stenting over surgery in high-risk patients. The effectiveness of endovascular treatment in low-risk patients and patients with asymptomatic stenoses at preventing of stroke is still uncertain. Carotid artery stenting with an embolic protection device cannot be considered a scientifically sound and evidence-based alternative to carotid surgery in low-risk and asymptomatic patients until we have the results of further randomized trials. This overview presents the currently available data from randomized trials.
Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Partsch
Published: December 2009

Varicose veins are a very frequent disorder with prevalence in our adult population between 14 % for large varices and 59 % for small teleangiectasias. Subjective symptoms may be very non-specific. The term “chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)” defines functional abnormalities of the venous system producing advanced symptoms like oedema, skin changes or leg ulcers. Both entities, varicose veins and CVI, may be summarized under the term “chronic venous disorders” which includes the full spectrum of morphological and functional abnormalities of the venous system. A classification system to describe chronic venous disorders regarding clinical appearance, etiology, anatomical distribution and pathophysiology has been proposed under the acronym of CEAP. The revised version of the CEAP classification contains also definitions of clinical signs and suggests three levels of apparative investigations adjusted to the clinical stage. Concerning the etiology of venous disorders controversial theories exist leading to different therapeutic concepts. As a matter of fact there is a vicious circle between structural changes in valves and venous wall and hemodynamic forces leading to reflux and venous hypertension. Different methods for treating varicose veins are available producing satisfactory early outcome in most cases, but followed by a high recurrence rate after years. Chronic venous insufficiency requires “chronic management”. Compression therapy by bandages for initial treatment of severe stages and maintenance therapy using medical compression stockings is essential. In addition correction of venous refluxes by surgery or endovenous procedures including echo-guided foam sclerotherapy should be considered in every single case.
Surgical treatment of arterial ischemia associated with the use of the angioseal vascular closure device
Authors: Pontón  , Negueruela  , Bernal  , García  , Arnáiz  , Solórzano  , Revuelta
Published: December 2009

Background: Despite the theoretical effectiveness of the Angio-Seal closure device to control bleeding after arterial puncture it can increase the risk of ischemia. Objectives: To describe arterial lesions caused by the device, surgical techniques needed to repair those lesions and surgical outcome in patients who underwent surgery for arterial ischemia after heart catheterization. Patients and methods: Seven patients underwent surgery over a period of 12 months at our institution. Five patients underwent emergency surgery and two a delayed procedure. The cause of ischemia was dissection of an atheroma plaque at the puncture site in four cases, dissection of the superficial femoral artery in one case, thrombosis of the common femoral artery in one case, and plication of the posterior arterial wall in one case. Arterial repair in these patients required the insertion of a vascular graft in three cases, endarterectomy plus angioplasty in two cases, endarterectomy plus graft interposition plus thrombectomy of the superficial femoral artery in one case and endarterectomy plus femoropopliteal bypass in one case. Results: Treatment was successful in all patients. Mean follow up was 7.6 months (range 5-11 months). During the study period one patient died due to cardiopathy. No patients had to be re-operated and no limb losses were recorded. All the patients were asymptomatic from a vascular point of view with normal active lives for their age. Conclusions: Surgical repair is effective, although, generally, it is not restricted to a simple thrombectomy, requiring the use of different arterial repair techniques
Association of plaque echostructure and cardiovascular risk factors with symptomatic carotid artery disease
Authors: Giannoukas  , Sfyroeras  , Griffin  , Saleptsis  , Antoniou  , Nicolaides
Published: December 2009

Background: Severity of stenosis remains the main factor for assessing risk of stroke in patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) disease. This study was conducted to investigate the association of plaque echostructure and other established and emerging cardiovascular risk factors with symptomatic ICA disease. Design: Cross-sectional study of consecutive patients with significant (> 50 %) ICA stenosis. Patients and methods: Carotid plaque echostructure, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, serum lipoprotein (a), homocysteine, vitamin B12, folate, cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein ratio, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, and the Framingham risk score were assessed in 124 consecutive patients (70 asymptomatic; 54 symptomatic) with significant (> 50 %) ICA stenosis. Results: The asymptomatic and symptomatic groups did not differ in terms of gender distribution (p = 0.76) and severity of stenosis (p = 0.62). Echolucent plaques (type 1 and 2) were more predominant in patients with symptomatic disease (p = 0.004, OR = 2.13, 95 % CI = 1.26-3.6). Patients with plaques type 1 were relatively younger than those with type 4 (p = 0.02). None of the other factors assessed had any significant association with symptomatic disease and any type of carotid plaque. Conclusions: Besides the severity of carotid stenosis, the presence of an echolucent plaque appears as an important factor associated with symptomatic ICA disease. Also, young patients are more likely to have an echolucent plaque suggesting an age-related association with plaque maturation.
A semi‐Lagrangian water temperature model for advection‐dominated river systems
Authors: Yearsley John R.
Published: December 2009

This paper describes a one‐dimensional stream temperature model that is computationally efficient and highly scalable in both time and space. The model is developed within the framework of state space structure. The time‐dependent equations for the conservation of thermal energy in a flowing stream or river are solved using a mixed Eulerian‐Lagrangian, or semi‐Lagrangian, numerical scheme. Solutions are obtained by tracking individual water parcels along their flow characteristics and storing the simulated results at discrete points on a fixed grid. Computational efficiency and accuracy of the numerical scheme are demonstrated by comparison of model estimates with observations of stream temperatures from rivers in the Pacific Northwest as well as with results from a closed‐form solution of the energy equation. A preliminary analysis of the impact of climate changes on stream temperature in the Columbia River system illustrates the strengths of the semi‐Lagrangian method for addressing water quality issues of regional, national, and, ultimately, global scale. Further development of the semi‐Lagrangian method has the potential to improve the ability of water quality planners to perform uncertainty analysis, risk analysis, and forecasting for large, complex river systems.
Reanalysis of relativistic radiation belt electron phase space density using multisatellite observations: Sensitivity to empirical magnetic field models
Authors: Ni Binbin , Shprits Yuri , Thorne Richard , Friedel Reiner , Nagai Tsugunobu
Published: December 2009

Using empirical external magnetic field models (T89, T96, T01s, and T04s) and simultaneous observations from four satellites (CRRES, Akebono, and two GEO satellites) during a 7‐day period from 1 to 7 August 1991, we performed a combined reanalysis of radiation belt electron phase space density (PSD). While precise L* locations of the satellites are sensitive to the adopted magnetic field model, comparisons between the reconstructed radial profiles of electron PSD, obtained using Kalman filtering, indicate that the combined reanalyses are relatively insensitive to the choice of the magnetic field model during geomagnetically quiet or moderate activity times or for the long‐term reanalysis studies. The reanalysis results using the four external magnetic field models show similarities in the locations of peaks in radial profiles of PSD and the radial extent of the dropouts. The largest difference between assimilated PSD using different Tsyganenko models occurs mostly during geomagnetically active periods when the Dst index is low or at higher L* shells near the boundary. Presented results also suggest that the errors of assimilated PSD based on multiple satellite measurements can become smaller than errors of PSD reconstructed from individual satellites.