bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioaccumulation and toxicity of selenium compounds in the green alga Scenedesmus quadricauda
Authors: Umysová Dáša , Vítová Milada , Doušková Irena , Bišová Kateřina , Hlavová Monika , Čížková Mária , Machát Jiří , Doucha Jiří , Zachleder Vilém
Published: May 2009

Background

Selenium is a trace element performing important biological functions in many organisms including humans. It usually affects organisms in a strictly dosage-dependent manner being essential at low and toxic at higher concentrations. The impact of selenium on mammalian and land plant cells has been quite extensively studied. Information about algal cells is rare despite of the fact that they could produce selenium enriched biomass for biotechnology purposes.

Results

We studied the impact of selenium compounds on the green chlorococcal alga Scenedesmus quadricauda. Both the dose and chemical forms of Se were critical factors in the cellular response. Se toxicity increased in cultures grown under sulfur deficient conditions. We selected three strains of Scenedesmus quadricauda specifically resistant to high concentrations of inorganic selenium added as selenite (Na2SeO3) – strain SeIV, selenate (Na2SeO4) – strain SeVI or both – strain SeIV+VI. The total amount of Se and selenomethionine in biomass increased with increasing concentration of Se in the culturing media. The selenomethionine made up 30–40% of the total Se in biomass. In both the wild type and Se-resistant strains, the activity of thioredoxin reductase, increased rapidly in the presence of the form of selenium for which the given algal strain was not resistant.

Conclusion

The selenium effect on the green alga Scenedesmus quadricauda was not only dose dependent, but the chemical form of the element was also crucial. With sulfur deficiency, the selenium toxicity increases, indicating interference of Se with sulfur metabolism. The amount of selenium and SeMet in algal biomass was dependent on both the type of compound and its dose. The activity of thioredoxin reductase was affected by selenium treatment in dose-dependent and toxic-dependent manner. The findings implied that the increase in TR activity in algal cells was a stress response to selenium cytotoxicity. Our study provides a new insight into the impact of selenium on green algae, especially with regard to its toxicity and bioaccumulation.
Current practice of abdominal wall closure in elective surgery – Is there any consensus?
Authors: Rahbari Nuh N , Knebel Phillip , Diener Markus K , Seidlmayer Christoph , Ridwelski Karsten , Stöltzing Hartmut , Seiler Christoph M
Published: May 2009

Background

Development of incisional hernia after open abdominal surgery remains a major cause of post-operative morbidity. The aim of this study was to determine the current practice of surgeons in terms of access to and closure of the abdominal cavity in elective open surgery.

Methods

Twelve surgical departments of the INSECT-Trial group documented the following variables for 50 consecutive patients undergoing abdominal surgery: fascial closure techniques, applied suture materials, application of subcutaneous sutures, subcutaneous drains, methods for skin closure. Descriptive analysis was performed and consensus of treatment variables was categorized into four levels: Strong consensus >95%, consensus 75–95%, overall agreement 50–75%, no consensus <50%.

Results

157 out of 599 patients were eligible for analysis (85 (54%) midline, 54 (35%) transverse incisions). After midline incisions the fascia was closed continuously in 55 patients (65%), using slowly absorbable (n = 47, 55%), braided (n = 32, 38%) sutures with a strength of 1 (n = 48, 57%). In the transverse setting the fascia was closed continuously in 39 patients (72%) with slowly absorbable (n = 22, 41%) braided sutures (n = 27, 50%) with a strength of 1 (n = 30, 56%).

Conclusion

In the present evaluation midline incision was the most frequently applied access in elective open abdominal surgery. None of the treatments for abdominal wall closure (except skin closure in the midline group) is performed on a consensus level.
The interaction between the measles virus nucleoprotein and the Interferon Regulator Factor 3 relies on a specific cellular environment
Authors: Colombo Matteo , Bourhis Jean-Marie , Chamontin Celia , Soriano Carine , Villet Stéphanie , Costanzo Stéphanie , Couturier Marie , Belle Valérie , Fournel André , Darbon Hervé , Gerlier Denis , Longhi Sonia
Published: May 2009

Background

The genome of measles virus consists of a non-segmented single-stranded RNA molecule of negative polarity, which is encapsidated by the viral nucleoprotein (N) within a helical nucleocapsid. The N protein possesses an intrinsically disordered C-terminal domain (aa 401–525, NTAIL) that is exposed at the surface of the viral nucleopcapsid. Thanks to its flexible nature, NTAIL interacts with several viral and cellular partners. Among these latter, the Interferon Regulator Factor 3 (IRF-3) has been reported to interact with N, with the interaction having been mapped to the regulatory domain of IRF-3 and to NTAIL. This interaction was described to lead to the phosphorylation-dependent activation of IRF-3, and to the ensuing activation of the pro-immune cytokine RANTES gene.

Results

After confirming the reciprocal ability of IRF-3 and N to be co-immunoprecipitated in 293T cells, we thoroughly investigated the NTAIL-IRF-3 interaction using a recombinant, monomeric form of the regulatory domain of IRF-3. Using a large panel of spectroscopic approaches, including circular dichroism, fluorescence spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, we failed to detect any direct interaction between IRF-3 and either full-length N or NTAIL under conditions where these latter interact with the C-terminal X domain of the viral phosphoprotein. Furthermore, such interaction was neither detected in E. coli nor in a yeast two hybrid assay.

Conclusion

Altogether, these data support the requirement for a specific cellular environment, such as that provided by 293T human cells, for the NTAIL-IRF-3 interaction to occur. This dependence from a specific cellular context likely reflects the requirement for a human or mammalian cellular co-factor.
Clinical audit of foot problems in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated at Counties Manukau District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Rome Keith , Gow Peter J , Dalbeth Nicola , Chapman Jonathan M
Published: May 2009

Background

At diagnosis, 16% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients may have foot joint involvement, increasing to 90% as disease duration increases. This can lead to joint instability, difficulties in walking and limitation in functional ability that restricts activities of daily living. The podiatrist plays an important role in the multidisciplinary team approach to the management of foot problems. The aim of this study was to undertake a clinical audit of foot problems in patients with RA treated at Counties Manukau District Health Board.

Methods

Patients with RA were identified through rheumatological clinics run within CMDHB. 100 patients were eligible for inclusion. Specific foot outcome tools were used to evaluate pain, disability and function. Observation on foot lesions were noted and previous history of foot assessment, footwear/insoles and foot surgery were evaluated.

Results

The median age of the cohort was 60 (IQR: 51–64) years old with median disease duration of 15 (IQR: 7.3–25) years. Over 85% presented with foot lesions that included corns and callus over the forefoot region and lesser toe deformities. Moderate to high disability was noted. High levels of forefoot structural damage were observed. 76% had not seen a podiatrist and 77% reported no previous formal foot assessment. 40% had been seen at the orthotic centre for specialised footwear and insoles. 27% of RA patients reported previous foot surgery. A large proportion of patients wore inappropriate footwear.

Conclusion

This clinical audit suggests that the majority of RA patients suffer from foot problems. Future recommendations include the provision of a podiatrist within the current CMDHB multidisciplinary rheumatology team to ensure better services for RA patients with foot problems.
Association of common polymorphisms in known susceptibility genes with rheumatoid arthritis in a Slovak population using osteoarthritis patients as controls
Authors: Stark Klaus , Rovenský Jozef , Blažičková Stanislava , Grosse-Wilde Hans , Ferencik Stanislav , Hengstenberg Christian , Straub Rainer H
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a common and complex autoimmune disease. As well as the major susceptibility gene HLA-DRB1, recent genome-wide and candidate-gene studies reported additional evidence for association of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in the PTPN22, STAT4, OLIG3/TNFAIP3 and TRAF1/C5 loci with RA. This study was initiated to investigate the association between defined genetic markers and RA in a Slovak population. In contrast to recent studies, we included intensively-characterized osteoarthritis (OA) patients as controls.

Methods

We used material of 520 RA and 303 OA samples in a case-control setting. Six SNPs were genotyped using TaqMan assays. HLA-DRB1 alleles were determined by employing site-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification.

Results

No statistically significant association of TRAF1/C5 SNPs rs3761847 and rs10818488 with RA was detected. However, we were able to replicate the association signals between RA and HLA-DRB1 alleles, STAT4 (rs7574865), PTPN22 (rs2476601) and OLIG3/TNFAIP3 (rs10499194 and rs6920220). The strongest signal was detected for HLA-DRB1*04 with an allelic P = 1.2*10-13 (OR = 2.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.18 – 3.91). Additionally, SNPs rs7574865
STAT4
(P = 9.2*10-6; OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.35 – 2.18) and rs2476601
PTPN22
(P = 9.5*10-4; OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.23 – 2.26) were associated with susceptibility to RA, whereas after permutation testing OLIG3/TNFAIP3 SNPs rs10499194 and rs6920220 missed our criteria for significance (Pcorr = 0.114 and Pcorr = 0.180, respectively).

Conclusions

In our Slovak population, HLA-DRB1 alleles as well as SNPs in STAT4 and PTPN22 genes showed a strong association with RA.
Endotoxin-Induced Growth Hormone Resistance in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Chen Yu , Sood Sumita , Krishnamurthy Vidya M. R. , Rotwein Peter , Rabkin Ralph
Published: May 2009

Inflammation-induced skeletal muscle wasting is a serious clinical problem and arises in part because of resistance to GH-stimulated IGF-I expression. Although it is established that in the liver, resistance develops because of impaired signaling through the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) transduction pathway, together with a more distal defect in STAT5 DNA-binding activity, the situation in skeletal muscle is unclear. Accordingly, we set out to characterize the mechanisms behind the skeletal muscle resistance to GH in rats with acute inflammation induced by endotoxin. Endotoxin caused significant declines in GH-stimulated STAT5a/b phosphorylation and IGF-I gene expression, and this occurred despite a lack of change in signaling protein levels or phosphorylation of JAK2. In whole muscle, GH-stimulated phospho-STAT5a/b levels were reduced by half, and in the nucleus, phospho-STAT5b levels were similarly reduced. Furthermore, the binding of phosphorylated STAT5b to DNA was reduced and to a similar extent to the reduction in nuclear phosphorylated STAT5b. Interestingly, GH-induced androgen receptor gene expression was also suppressed. Thus, it appears that skeletal muscle resistance to GH-stimulated IGF-I expression in acute endotoxemia arises from a defect in STAT5b signaling, with a proportionate reduction in STAT5b DNA binding. Finally, it appears that resistance to GH-induced androgen receptor expression also develops and, together with the attenuated GH-induced IGF-I expression, likely plays an important role in the muscle wasting that arises in endotoxin-induced inflammation.
A Unique Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Antagonist Suppresses Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome in Rats
Authors: Vardhana Pratibhasri A. , Julius Martin A. , Pollak Susan V. , Lustbader Evan G. , Trousdale Rhonda K. , Lustbader Joyce W.
Published: May 2009

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a complication of in vitro fertilization associated with physiological changes after hCG administration to induce final oocyte maturation. It presents as widespread increases in vascular permeability and, in rare cases, results in cycle cancellation, multi-organ dysfunction, and pregnancy termination. These physiological changes are due primarily to activation of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system in response to exogenous human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). An hCG antagonist (hCG-Ant) could attenuate these effects by competitively binding to the LH/CG receptor, thereby blocking LH activity in vivo. We expressed a form of hCG that lacks three of its four N-linked glycosylation sites and tested its efficacy as an antagonist. The hCG-Ant binds the LH receptor with an affinity similar to native hCG and inhibits cAMP response in vitro. In a rat model for ovarian stimulation, hCG-Ant dramatically reduces ovulation and steroid hormone production. In a well-established rat OHSS model, vascular permeability and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression are dramatically reduced after hCG-Ant treatment. Finally, hCG-Ant does not appear to alter blastocyst development when given after hCG in mice. These studies demonstrate that removing specific glycosylation sites on native hCG can produce an hCG-Ant that is capable of binding without activating the LH receptor and blocking the actions of hCG. Thus hCG-Ant will be investigated as a potential therapy for OHSS.
Targeted Gene Knockdown in Zebrafish Reveals Distinct Intraembryonic Functions for Insulin-Like Growth Factor II Signaling
Authors: White Yvonne A. R. , Kyle Joshua T. , Wood Antony W.
Published: May 2009

IGF-II is the predominant IGF ligand regulating prenatal growth in all vertebrates, including humans, but its central role in placental development has confounded efforts to fully elucidate its functions within the embryo. Here we use a nonplacental model vertebrate (zebrafish) to interrogate the intraembryonic functions of IGF-II signaling. The zebrafish genome contains two coorthologs of mammalian IGF2 (igf2a, igf2b), which exhibit distinct patterns of expression during embryogenesis. Expression of igf2a mRNA is restricted to the notochord, primarily during segmentation/neurulation. By contrast, igf2b mRNA is expressed in midline tissues adjacent to the notochord, with additional sites of expression in the ventral forebrain, and the pronephros. To identify their intraembryonic functions, we suppressed the expression of each gene with morpholino oligonucleotides. Knockdown of igf2a led to defects in dorsal midline development, characterized by delayed segmentation, notochord undulations, and ventral curvature. Similarly, suppression of igf2b led to defects in dorsal midline development but also induced ectopic fusion of the nephron primordia, and defects in ventral forebrain development. Subsequent onset of severe body edema in igf2b, but not igf2a morphants, further suggested a distinct role for igf2b in development of the embryonic kidney. Simultaneous knockdown of both genes increased the severity of dorsal midline defects, confirming a conserved role for both genes in dorsal midline development. Collectively, these data provide evidence that the zebrafish orthologs of IGF2 function in dorsal midline development during segmentation/neurulation, whereas one paralog, igf2b, has evolved additional, distinct functions during subsequent organogenesis.
NHE3 regulatory complexes
Authors: Donowitz Mark , Mohan Sachin , Zhu Cindy Xinjun , Chen Tian-E , Lin Rong , Cha Boyoung , Zachos Nicholas C. , Murtazina Rakhilya , Sarker Rafiquel , Li Xuhang
Published: May 2009

The epithelial brush border Na/H exchanger NHE3 is active under basal conditions and functions as part of neutral NaCl absorption in the intestine and renal proximal tubule, where it accounts for the majority of total Na absorbed. NHE3 is highly regulated. Both stimulation and inhibition occur post-prandially. This digestion related regulation of NHE3 is mimicked by multiple extracellular agonists and intracellular second messengers. The regulation of NHE3 depends on its C-terminal cytoplasmic domain, which acts as a scaffold to bind multiple regulatory proteins and links NHE3 to the cytoskeleton. The cytoskeletal association occurs by both direct binding to ezrin and by indirect binding via ezrin binding to the C-terminus of the multi-PDZ domain containing proteins NHERF1 and NHERF2. This is a review of the domain structure of NHE3 and of the scaffolding function and role in the regulation of NHE3 of the NHE3 C-terminal domain.
Vacuolar-type proton pumps in insect epithelia
Authors: Wieczorek Helmut , Beyenbach Klaus W. , Huss Markus , Vitavska Olga
Published: May 2009

Active transepithelial cation transport in insects was initially discovered in Malpighian tubules, and was subsequently also found in other epithelia such as salivary glands, labial glands, midgut and sensory sensilla. Today it appears to be established that the cation pump is a two-component system of a H+-transporting V-ATPase and a cation/nH+ antiporter. After tracing the discovery of the V-ATPase as the energizer of K+/nH+ antiport in the larval midgut of the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta we show that research on the tobacco hornworm V-ATPase delivered important findings that emerged to be of general significance for our knowledge of V-ATPases, which are ubiquitous and highly conserved proton pumps. We then discuss the V-ATPase in Malpighian tubules of the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster where the potential of post-genomic biology has been impressively illustrated. Finally we review an integrated physiological approach in Malpighian tubules of the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti which shows that the V-ATPase delivers the energy for both transcellular and paracellular ion transport.
Shape optimization of high-speed trains for improved aerodynamic performance
Authors: Krajnović S
Published: May 2009

A new procedure for the optimization of aerodynamic properties of trains is presented, where simple response surface (RS) models are used as a basis for optimization instead of a large number of evaluations of the Navier—Stokes solver. The suggested optimization strategy is demonstrated in two flow optimization cases: optimization of the train's front for the crosswind stability and optimization of vortex generators (VGs) for the purpose of drag reduction. Besides finding the global minimum for each aerodynamic objective, a strategy for finding a set of optimal solutions is demonstrated. This is based on the use of genetic algorithms on RS models. The resulting Pareto-optimal solutions are used to explore the extreme designs and find trade-offs between design objectives. For the optimization of VGs, three different RS models are used: polynomial functions, radial basis neural networks (RBNN), and RBNN-enhanced polynomial RSs. The three approaches produce different results, and the combination of RBNN and polynomial functions in the last approach is found to be the best as it enables the construction of high-order polynomial functions, and the model's fit with the data is the best.
Performance optimization for an open-cycle gas turbine power plant with a refrigeration cycle for compressor inlet air cooling. Part 1: Thermodynamic modelling
Authors: Chen L , Zhang W , Sun F
Published: May 2009

A thermodynamic model of an open cycle gas turbine power plant with a refrigeration cycle for compressor inlet air cooling with pressure drop irreversibilities is established using finite-time thermodynamics in Part 1 of this article. The flow processes of the working fluid with the pressure drops of the working fluid and the size constraints of the real power plant are modelled. There are 12 flow resistances encountered by the working fluid stream for the cycle model. Three of these, the friction through the blades, vanes of the compressor, and the turbines, are related to the isentropic efficiencies. The remaining flow resistances are always present because of the changes in the flow cross-section at the mixing chamber inlet and outlet, the compressor inlet and outlet, the combustion chamber inlet and outlet, the heat exchanger inlet and outlet, and the turbine inlet and outlet. These resistances associated with the flow through various cross-sectional areas are derived as functions of the mixing chamber inlet relative pressure drop, and they control the air flowrate and the net power output. The analytical formulae about the power output, efficiency, and other coefficients are derived with the 12 pressure drop losses. The numerical examples show that the dimensionless power output reaches its maximum at the optimal value and that the dimensionless power output and the thermal efficiency reach their maximum values at the optimal values of the compressor fore-stages pressure ratio of the inverse Brayton cycle.
Validation of a Phosphoprotein Array Assay for Characterization of Human Tyrosine Kinase Receptor Downstream Signaling in Breast Cancer
Authors: Chergui Fadila , Chrétien Anne-Sophie , Bouali Sanae , Ramacci Carole , Rouyer Marie , Bastogne Thierry , Genin Pascal , Leroux Agnès , Merlin Jean-Louis
Published: May 2009

Background: Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) downstream signaling kinases have important effects on tumor response to anti-HER monoclonal antibodies and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We validated an assay that uses phosphoprotein arrays for measurement of HER downstream signaling functionality in breast carcinomas.

Methods: Using the Bio-Plex® phosphoprotein array (BPA), we performed multiplex immunoanalysis to investigate the expression of phosphorylated epidermal growth factor receptor and phosphorylated HER downstream signaling proteins (phosphorylated protein kinase B, phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase −3β, phosphorylated P70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase, and phosphorylated extracellular signal regulated kinase 42/44) in 49 frozen specimens of ductal infiltrating breast carcinoma taken at diagnosis. BPA was cross-validated with Western blot analysis. Sample size, homogenicity, tumor content, protein extraction, and monoclonal antibody detection were in accordance with optimized standard operating procedures.

Results: Linear regression showed significant quantitative correlations between BPA and Western blot, with regression coefficient values of 0.71–0.87 (P < 0.001). BPA intra- and interassay CVs were <17% and 15%, respectively. Compared to limits of detection established by using the mean + 3SD of 10 blanks, large variations of phosphoprotein expression, up to several hundred-fold, were observed among the 49 tumor specimens.

Conclusions: Our results validate the use of the multiplex phosphoprotein array assay in human clinical tumor specimens. Further prospective evaluation is warranted to investigate the use of HER downstream signaling phosphoproteins as predictive and/or surrogate markers for clinical response to anti-HER targeted therapy. .
Effect of Catechol on the Size and Shape of CTAB Micelles in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Meng Jun , Lu Yao , Li Ling , Wu Huijue , Zhang Xin
Published: May 2009

The effects of catechol on the change of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) micelles in aqueous solutions have been studied by Ultramicroelectrode (UME) cyclic voltammetry and Time-Resolved Fluorescence Quenching (TRFQ). It has been shown that the diffusion coefficient decreases and the micelle aggregation number increases with the addition of catechol. This indicates that catechol has influence on the size or shape of CTAB micelles. In order to analyze the change of the micelles, other micelle parameters like the effective radius (a), surface area of micelle (S), area of single CTAB molecule (A) and packing parameter (P) were calculated. The values of P which is relative to the shape of the micelles are consistent with the change of the diffusion coefficient. All the results show that catechol can accelerate the increase of the aggregate size and sphere-to-rod morphology change of CTAB micelles even with lower concentration of CTAB. This is because that hydrophobic force makes catechol insert into CTAB micelles between CTAB molecules, which leads to the increase of the radius of curvature. The increase of aggregate size and the sphere-to-rod morphology change are also promoted as a result.
Effect of the Oxidation Potential of the Metal Deposit on the Photocatalytic Activity of Metallized Titanium Dioxide Samples
Authors: Damm Cornelia , Israel G.
Published: May 2009

A commercial anatase pigment was coated with copper, silver, palladium, platinum and gold, respectively. That means the oxidation potential of the deposit was varied from about +0.3 V (vs. NHE) to about +1.5 V (vs. NHE). The photocatalytic activity of the metallized titanium dioxide samples was evaluated using the degradation of methyl orange as a test reaction. In comparison to the neat titanium dioxide the metallized samples exhibit enhanced photocatalytic activity. A longer lifetime of charge carriers in the surface region of the metallized samples is the reason for their better activity, as photo-EMF investigations reveal.The photocatalytic activity of the metallized samples, however, depends on the kind of metal used although the amount of metal on the titanium dioxide was the same and the particle sizes of the deposits were similar for all samples. This finding shows that the oxidation potential of the metal deposit plays a major role for the photocatalytic activity of the support material because it governs the depth of the electron traps.The best photocatalytic activity was observed for titanium dioxide coated with silver. That means under the conditions used an oxidation potential of +0.8 V (vs. NHE) of the deposit is most suitable for the photocatalytic activity of titanium dioxide.
Efficacy and safety of ezetimibe/simvastatin combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Ábel Tatjána , Fehér János , Dinya Elek , Gamal Eldin Mohamed , Kovács Attila
Published: May 2009

A nem alkoholos zsírmáj gyakran fordul elő a metabolikus szindrómához tartozó 2-es típusú diabetesben, dyslipidaemiában és obesitasban.
Célkitűzés:
Az ezetimib/simvastatin 10/20 mg kombinált kezelés hatékonyságának és biztonságosságának meghatározása 2-es típusú diabeteses és nem alkoholos zsírmájú betegek esetében.
Módszer:
Tizenkilenc 2-es típusú diabeteses és nem alkoholos zsírmájú beteget vizsgáltunk, akiket 2005 és 2008 között diagnosztizáltak és kezeltek a Budaörsi Egészségügyi Központban. Hat hónappal az ezetimib/simvastatin (10/20 mg naponta) kombinált kezelést követően minden betegnél megfigyeltük a szérum-alanin-aminotranszferáz- (ALT-), aszpartát-aminotranszferáz- (AST-), koleszterin-, LDL-koleszterin-, HDL-koleszterin- és trigliceridszint változását.
Eredmények:
Hat hónappal az ezetimib/simvastatin adását követően szignifikánsan csökkent az ALT (63,78±5,12 vs. 32,57±3,92 U/L; p < 0,0001), az AST (50,79±3,66 vs. 23,68±3,42 U/L; p < 0,0001), a koleszterin (6,26±0,46 vs. 4,02±0,31 mmol/L; p < 0,0001) és az LDL-koleszterin (4,24±0,37 vs. 2,22±0,1 mmol/L; p < 0,0001) koncentrációja. A kombinált kezelés szignifikánsan csökkentette a triglicerid szintjét (2,62±0,48 vs. 1,33±0,20 mmol/L; p < 0,0001) és növelte a HDL-koleszterin (1,02±0,12 vs. 1,18±0,07 mmol/L; p < 0,0001) koncentrációját.
Következtetések:
Vizsgálatunk eredményei azt mutatják, hogy az ezetimib/simvastatin kombinált kezelés biztonságos és hatékony 2-es típusú diabeteses, nem alkoholos zsírmájú betegek esetében.
Benefits of local government and university research alliances
Authors: Chanan A. , Kandasamy J. , Simmons B.
Published: May 2009

Local government plays an integral role in the Australian economy with a cumulative annual expenditure of over Aus$20 billion representing around 2% of Australian GDP. Local government authorities employ around 1·3% of the Australian workforce and provide a wide range of services and infrastructure. There is a general lack of appreciation among council staff of the value of collaboration with universities and vice versa. However, staff at Kogarah Municipal Council, having been involved in partnership projects with universities, strongly value the benefits of such collaborations. Councils can provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ for applied research and its application for a range of disciplines from science and technology to arts and policy studies.
Building Alliances in Unlikely Places: Progressive Allies and the Tobacco Institute's Coalition Strategy on Cigarette Excise Taxes
Authors: Campbell Richard B. , Balbach Edith D.
Published: May 2009

The tobacco industry often utilizes third parties to advance its policy agenda. One such utilization occurred when the industry identified organized labor and progressive groups as potential allies whose advocacy could undermine public support for excise tax increases. To attract such collaboration, the industry framed the issue as one of tax fairness, creating a labor management committee to provide distance from tobacco companies and furthering progressive allies' interests through financial and logistical support. Internal industry documents indicate that this strategic use of ideas, institutions, and interests facilitated the recruitment of leading progressive organizations as allies. By placing excise taxes within a strategic policy nexus that promotes mutual public interest goals, public health advocates may use a similar strategy in forging their own excise tax coalitions.
Nutrition Content of Food and Beverage Products on Web Sites Popular With Children
Authors: Lingas Elena O. , Dorfman Lori , Bukofzer Eliana
Published: May 2009

We assessed the nutritional quality of branded food and beverage products advertised on 28 Web sites popular with children. Of the 77 advertised products for which nutritional information was available, 49 met Institute of Medicine criteria for foods to avoid, 23 met criteria for foods to neither avoid nor encourage, and 5 met criteria for foods to encourage. There is a need for further research on the nature and extent of food and beverage advertising online to aid policymakers as they assess the impact of this marketing on children.
Modeling Anthesis to Silking in Maize Using a Plant Biomass Framework
Authors: Borrás Lucas , Astini Juan P. , Westgate Mark E. , Severini Alan D.
Published: May 2009

The capacity to predict time to silking relative to anthesis in maize (Zea mays L.) has important implications for breeding and seed production. We developed a theoretical quantitative framework for simulating the anthesis to silking interval (ASI) based on plant growth and biomass partitioning to the ear. We tested this framework to simulate the progress of silking relative to anthesis in nine inbreds and four hybrids whose plant growth rate (PGR) during flowering was altered by stand density, thinning, or defoliating treatments. Time to 50% anthesis varied with genotype but was not affected by canopy modifications (P < 0.01). The ASI, however, varied with genotype and canopy modifications (P < 0.01). The proportion of plants reaching silking ranged from 12 to 100% across treatments. There were significant (P < 0.001) genotype × treatment interactions for PGR around anthesis and plant‐to‐plant variability in growth rate. Genotypes differed in biomass partitioning to the ear, the pattern of ear biomass (EB) accumulation, and the EB required to achieve silking. Despite these effects, the plant biomass framework accurately simulated silking dynamics relative to anthesis for the 36 treatment combinations (R2 = 0.86, RMSE = 16.7%). These results show that coupling the expansion growth process of silking with plant growth around flowering is a useful and robust approach for modeling ASI at the population level.
Efficacy of Herbicide Seed Treatments for Controlling Striga Infestation of Sorghum
Authors: Tuinstra Mitchell R. , Soumana Souley , Al‐Khatib Kassim , Kapran Issoufou , Toure Aboubacar , van Ast Aad , Bastiaans Lammert , Ochanda Newton W. , Salami Issoufou , Kayentao Mountaga , Dembele Siaka
Published: May 2009

Witchweed (Striga spp.) infestations are the greatest obstacle to sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] grain production in many areas in Africa. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of herbicide seed treatments for controlling Striga infestation of sorghum. Seeds of an acetolactate synthase (ALS) herbicide–tolerant sorghum hybrid were treated with two ALS‐inhibiting herbicides. Treatments included three rates of imazapyr (IMI), three rates of metsulfuron‐methyl (MET), and an untreated control group. In greenhouse trials, observations at 32, 46, and 60 d after planting showed that seeds treated with the highest herbicide rates had the fewest Striga attachments and the greatest delay in attachment. All plants in the untreated group died at or before sorghum flowering; however, herbicide seed treatments, particularly metsulfuron, reduced Striga emergence and significantly increased sorghum grain yield and dry matter production. Field studies comparing seed treatments produced similar results with delayed Striga emergence and fewer emerged Striga plants in herbicide‐treated plots. These studies indicate that herbicide seed treatments may provide a highly effective tool for managing Striga in sorghum.
Ecogeographic Factors Affecting Inflorescence Emergence of Cool‐Season Forage Grasses
Authors: Hall M. H. , Dillon J. M. , Undersander D. J. , Wood T. M. , Holman P. W. , Min D. H. , Leep R. H. , Lacefield G. D. , Kunelius H. T. , Peterson P. R. , Ehlke N. J.
Published: May 2009

The ability to predict when a cool‐season forage grass cultivar will begin inflorescence emergence under different ecogeographical conditions would allow plant breeders, agronomists, and grass‐seed marketers to better position that cultivar into a forage production system. Our objective was to determine the ecogeographical factors (longitude, latitude, elevation, day of year when average daily temperature exceeds 0°C for five consecutive days [DOY at 0°C], cumulative growing degree‐day [GDD], photoperiod, and cumulative photosynthetic active radiation [PAR]) that have the greatest effect on grass maturation in the spring. Inflorescence emergence was monitored in established cultivars of festulolium (× Festulolium spp.), orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. and Lolium multiflorum Lam.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and timothy (Phleum pratense L.) at eight locations in North America during the spring of 2004 and 2005. As latitude increased, the day of year when grasses reached 1% inflorescence emergence (DOY) also increased, while cumulative GDD and PAR decreased. Latitude, cumulative PAR, and DOY at 0°C were more closely correlated (r2 ≥ 0.67) to the onset of inflorescence emergence than the other variables. Latitude combined with the inverse transformation of PAR provided the best prediction of when these grasses would initiate inflorescence emergence (validation R2 for all species ≥ 0.83).
Design and hydraulic characteristics of a field-scale bi-phasic bioretention rain garden system for storm water management
Authors: Yang H. , Florence D. C. , McCoy E. L. , Dick W. A. , Grewal P. S.
Published: May 2009

A field-scale bioretention rain garden system was constructed using a novel bi-phasic (i.e. sequence of anaerobic to aerobic) concept for improving retention and removal of storm water runoff pollutants. Hydraulic tests with bromide tracer and simulated runoff pollutants (nitrate-N, phosphate-P, Cu, Pb, and Zn) were performed in the system under a simulated continuous rainfall. The objectives of the tests were (1) to determine hydraulic characteristics of the system, and (2) to evaluate the movement of runoff pollutants through the system. For the 180 mm/24 h rainfall, the bi-phasic bioretention system effectively reduced both peak flow (∼70%) and runoff volume (∼42%). The breakthrough curves (BTCs) of bromide tracer suggest that the transport pattern of the system is similar to dispersed plug flow under this large runoff event. The BTCs of bromide showed mean 10% and 90% breakthrough times of 5.7 h and 12.5 h, respectively. Under the continuous rainfall, a significantly different transport pattern was found between each runoff pollutant. Nitrate-N was easily transported through the system with potential leaching risk from the initial soil medium, whereas phosphate-P and metals were significantly retained indicating sorption-mediated transport. These findings support the importance of hydraulics, in combination with the soil medium, when creating bioretention systems for bioremediation that are effective for various rainfall sizes and intervals.
Nitrification inhibition by silver nanoparticles
Authors: Choi O. K. , Hu Z. Q.
Published: May 2009

Nitrification inhibition by silver nanoparticles (nanosilver) was evaluated by extant respirometry using enriched nitrifying bacteria isolated from wastewater treatment plants. Silver nanoparticles were more toxic than silver ions or silver chloride colloids, all of which did not disrupt cell membrane integrity at 1 mg/L Ag. The toxicity of silver nanoparticles was reduced in the presence of various anions, especially sulfide. The results suggest that silver nanoparticles have the same behaviour of surface complexation as silver ions, and inhibition by nanosilver in wastewater treatment may be removed by reaction of silver nanoparticles with soluble sulfide species.
Nitrifying biocathode enables effective electricity generation and sustainable wastewater treatment with microbial fuel cell
Authors: Tran Hung-Thuan , Kim Dae-Hee , Oh Se-Jin , Rasool Kashif , Park Doo-Hyun , Zhang Rui-Hong , Ahn Dae-Hee
Published: May 2009

Simultaneous organics removal and nitrification using a novel nitrifying biocathode microbial fuel cell (MFC) reactor were investigated in this study. Remarkably, the introduction of nitrifying biomass into the cathode chamber caused higher voltage outputs than that of MFC operated with the abiotic cathode. Results showed the maximum power density increased 18% when cathode was run under the biotic condition and fed by nitrifying medium with alkalinity/NH4+-N ratio of 8 (26 against 22 mW/m2). The voltage output was not differentiated when NH4+-N concentration was increased from 50 to 100 mg/L under such alkalinity/NH4+-N ratio. However, interestingly, the cell voltage rose significantly when the alkalinity/NH4+-N ratio was decreased to 6. Consequently, the maximum power density increased 68% in compared with the abiotic cathode MFC (37 against 22 mW/m2). Polarization curves demonstrated that both activation and concentration losses were lowered during the period of nitrifying biocathode operation. Ammonium was totally nitrified and mostly converted to nitrate in all cases of the biotic cathode conditions. High COD removal efficiency (98%) was achieved. In light of the results presented here, the application of nitrifying biocathode is not only able to integrate the nitrogen and carbon removal but also to enhance the power generation in MFC system. Our system can be suggested to open up a new feasible way for upgrading and retrofitting the existing wastewater treatment plant by the use of MFC-based technologies.
Qualitative and quantitative estimation of host-specific fecal pollution using Bacteroides–Prevotella 16S rRNA genetic markers by T-RFLP and real-time PCR analyses
Authors: Savichtcheva O. , Okabe S.
Published: May 2009

Rapid and reliable determination of the non-point sources of fecal pollution is a critical issue for the environmental microbiologists all over the world. In this work we evaluated the use of anaerobic bacterial group Bacteroides–Prevotella as an alternative fecal pollution indicator. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses were used to monitor and quantify human-, cow- and pig-specific fecal contamination in natural river waters. We also included DNA sequence analysis of the identified fecal markers revealed by T-RFLP in order to clarify the specificity of each marker. It was suggested that the most influent peaks for each fecal source could be used to identify the source of fecal pollution. Development of specific probes based on these markers permit to quantify source of contamination by quantitative RT-PCR. Therefore, we combined the T-RFLP results and RT-PCR assay to quantify fecal contamination by certain host. We can conclude that T-RFLP and RT-PCR analyses showed high reproducibility and sensitivity during analyzing real water samples and can be used to identify, track and quantify host-specific bacterial genetic markers in complex natural water environments.
Surgical findings and outcome for dairy cattle with jejunal hemorrhage syndrome: 31 cases (2000–2007)
Authors: Peek Simon F. , Santschi Elizabeth M. , Livesey Michael A. , Prichard Mike A. , McGuirk Sheila M. , Brounts Sabrina H. , Edwards Ryland B.
Published: May 2009

Objective—To describe signalment; surgical findings; short-, medium-, and long-term outcome; and recurrence rate for cattle undergoing celiotomy because of jejunal hemorrhage syndrome (JHS) and to analyze risk factors associated with outcome and recurrence.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—31 dairy cattle with JHS.

Procedures—Medical records were analyzed. Follow-up information was obtained from owners of cattle surviving until discharge.

Results—18 of 31 (58%) cattle undergoing celiotomy survived to initial discharge. Fifteen (48%) and 13 (42%) were alive 6 and 12 months after discharge, respectively. All 5 deaths within 12 months after discharge were attributed to JHS recurrence. Survival time was 12 to 85 months for the 13 long-term survivors. Six of 7 that died > 12 months after celiotomy did so for reasons unrelated to JHS. Recurrence rate among short-term survivors was 7 of 18; 1 of these survived long-term. A significant proportion of affected cattle were Brown Swiss, compared with proportions for other breeds. Manual massage of the bowel to break down clots was associated with a significantly higher short-term survival rate than was en-terectomy or enterotomy. Medium- and long-term survival rate was higher in cattle referred 24 to 48 hours after onset of signs. Length of obstructing blood clots was not associated with outcome. Other factors were not significantly associated with recurrence.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Survival rates were higher than those in other reports. Prompt celiotomy and resolution by use of manual massage were associated with higher survival rates. In this population, JHS recurred in 7 of 18 short-term survivors.
Determination of risk factors associated with seizure relapse after antiepileptic drug withdrawal
Authors: Vurucu Sebahattin , Saldir Mehmet , Unay Bulent , Akin Ridvan
Published: May 2009

There is no consensus regarding the time of antiepileptic drug withdrawal and the relevant risk factors for seizure relapse. In this study, we aimed to determine the seizure relapse rates and the associated risk factors for seizure relapse in childhood epilepsy. Two-hundred sixty-six epileptic patients who discontinued the antiepileptic drug therapy after a seizure-free period of at least two years, were enrolled into the study. The data of the patients regarding sex, febrile convulsion history, family history, age at onset, type of epilepsy, total number of seizures and antiepileptic drugs, seizures during treatment, mental status, first and last electroencephalography, brain imaging findings, etiological factors and seizure relapse in the first two years after antiepileptic drug withdrawal were obtained from the patients’ files. Univariate logistic regression analysis was performed for each variable. The variables which were found to be statistically significant in univariate analysis, were included in multivariate logistic regression analysis. The overall seizure relapse rate after antiepileptic drug withdrawal was 19.2%. There were no significant differences for seizure relapse rate after antiepileptic drug withdrawal between patient groups with respect to sex, family history, type of epilepsy, febrile convulsion history, seizures before treatment, first electroencephalography findings, brain imaging findings and etiology. However, there were statistically significant differences for seizure relapse rate among patient groups concerning age at onset of epilepsy, new seizure during treatment, the total number of antiepileptic drugs, mental status, and last electroencephalography findings. We imply that the clinical status of the patients should be considered before the cessation of drug therapy rather than the etiological factors or laboratory findings.
Kinetic magnetic resonance imaging analysis of abnormal segmental motion of the functional spine unit
Authors: Kong Min Ho , Hymanson Henry J. , Song Kwan Young , Chin Dong Kyu , Cho Yong Eun , Yoon Do Heum , Wang Jeffrey C.
Published: May 2009

Object

The authors conducted a retrospective observational study using kinetic MR imaging to investigate the relationship between instability, abnormal sagittal segmental motion, and radiographic variables consisting of intervertebral disc degeneration, facet joint osteoarthritis (FJO), degeneration of the interspinous ligaments, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH), and the status of the paraspinal muscles.

Methods

Abnormal segmental motion, defined as > 10° angulation and > 3 mm of translation in the sagittal plane, was investigated in 1575 functional spine units (315 patients) in flexion, neutral, and extension postures using kinetic MR imaging. Each segment was assessed based on the extent of disc degeneration (Grades I–V), FJO (Grades 1–4), interspinous ligament degeneration (Grades 1–4), presence of LFH, and paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration observed on kinetic MR imaging. These factors are often noted in patients with degenerative disease, and there are grading systems to describe these changes. For the first time, the authors attempted to address the relationship between these radiographic observations and the effects on the motion and instability of the functional spine unit.

Results

The prevalence of abnormal translational motion was significantly higher in patients with Grade IV degenerative discs and Grade 3 arthritic facet joints (p < 0.05). In patients with advanced disc degeneration and FJO, there was a lesser amount of motion in both segmental translation and angulation when compared with lower grades of degeneration, and this difference was statistically significant for angular motion (p < 0.05). Patients with advanced degenerative Grade 4 facet joint arthritis had a significantly lower percentage of abnormal angular motion compared to patients with normal facet joints (p < 0.001). The presence of LFH was strongly associated with abnormal translational and angular motion. Grade 4 interspinous ligament degeneration and the presence of paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration were both significantly associated with excessive abnormal angular motion (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This kinetic MR imaging analysis showed that the lumbar functional unit with more disc degeneration, FJO, and LFH had abnormal sagittal plane translation and angulation. These findings suggest that abnormal segmental motion noted on kinetic MR images is closely associated with disc degeneration, FJO, and the pathological characteristics of interspinous ligaments, ligamentum flavum, and paraspinal muscles. Kinetic MR imaging in patients with mechanical back pain may prove a valuable source of information about the stability of the functional spine unit by measuring abnormal segmental motion and grading of radiographic parameters simultaneously.