bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity of Skin Surface Oxygen Level of Wrist in Relation to Acupuncture Point
Authors: Hong Minyoung , Park Sarah S. , Ha Yejin , Lee Jaegeun , Yoo Kwangsik , Jhon Gil-Ja , Suh Minah , Lee Youngmi
Published: May 2012

The distribution of partial oxygen pressure (pO2) is analyzed for the anterior aspect of the left wrist with an amperometric oxygen microsensor composed of a small planar Pt disk-sensing area (diameter = 25 μm). The pO2levels vary depending on the measurement location over the wrist skin, and they are systematically monitored in the analysis for both one-dimensional single line (along the wrist transverse crease) and two-dimensional square area of the wrist region. Relatively higher pO2values are observed at certain area in close proximity to the position of acupuncture points with statistical significance, indicating strong relationship between oxygen and acupuncture point. The used oxygen microsensor is sensitive enough to detect the pO2variation depending on the location. This study may provide information helpful to understand possible physiological roles of the acupuncture points.
Survey of Water Bugs in Bankim, a New Buruli Ulcer Endemic Area in Cameroon
Authors: Ebong Solange Meyin A. , Eyangoh Sara , Marion Estelle , Landier Jordi , Marsollier Laurent , Guégan Jean-François , Legall Philippe
Published: May 2012

Buruli ulcer is a debitliating human skin disease with an unknown transmission mode although epidemiological data link it with swampy areas. Data available suggest that aquatic insects play a role in the dissemination and/or transmission of this disease. However, their biodiversity and biology remain poorly documented. We conducted an entomological survey in Bankim, Cameroon, an area recently described as endemic for Buruli ulcer in order to identify the commonly occurring aquatic bugs and document their relative abundance, diversity, and spatial distribution. Collection of aquatic bugs was realized over a period of one month by daily direct capture in different aquatic environments (streams, ponds, and rivers) and through light traps at night. Globally, the data obtained showed the presence of five families (Belostomatidae, Naucoridae, Nepidae, Notonectidae, and Gerridae), their abundance, distribution and diversity varying according to the type of aquatic environments and light attraction.
Comparison of Different Anthropometric Measurements and Inflammatory Biomarkers
Authors: Arbel Yaron , Birati Edo Y. , Shapira Itzhak , Finn Talya , Berliner Shlomo , Rogowski Ori
Published: May 2012

Introduction.Different anthropometric variables have been shown to be related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Our aim was to compare the association between different anthropometric measurements and inflammatory status.Methods and results.A cross-sectional study design in which we analyzed the data collected during a five-year period in the Tel Aviv Medical Center Inflammation Survey (TAMCIS). Included in the study were 13,033 apparently healthy individuals at a mean (SD) age of 43. Of these, 8,292 were male and 4,741 female. A significant age-adjusted and multiple-adjusted partial correlation was noted between all anthropometric measurements and all inflammatory biomarkers. There was no significant difference in the correlation coefficients between different biomarkers and anthropometric variables.Conclusion.Most of the common used anthropometric variables are similarly correlated with inflammatory variables. The clinician can choose the variable that he/she finds easiest to use.
Macrolides in Chronic Inflammatory Skin Disorders
Authors: Alzolibani Abdullateef A. , Zedan Khaled
Published: May 2012

Long-term therapy with the macrolide antibiotic erythromycin was shown to alter the clinical course of diffuse panbronchiolitis in the late 1980s. Since that time, macrolides have been found to have a large number of anti-inflammatory properties in addition to being antimicrobials. These observations provided the rationale for many studies performed to assess the usefulness of macrolides in other inflammatory diseases including skin and hair disorders, such as rosacea, psoriasis, pityriasis rosea, alopecia areata, bullous pemphigoid, and pityriasis lichenoides. This paper summarizes a collection of clinical studies and case reports dealing with the potential benefits of macrolides antibiotics in the treatment of selected dermatoses which have primarily been classified as noninfectious and demonstrating their potential for being disease-modifying agents.
Almost Periodic (Type) Solutions to Parabolic Cauchy Inverse Problems
Authors: Yang Fenglin , Zhang Chuanyi
Published: May 2012

We first show the existence and uniqueness of (pseudo) almost periodic solutions of some types of parabolic equations. Then, we apply the results to a type of Cauchy parabolic inverse problems and show the existence, uniqueness, and stability.
Spatial Characterization of GNSS Multipath Channels
Authors: Keshvadi Hatef , Broumandan Ali , Lachapelle Gérard
Published: May 2012

There is a growing interest in detecting and processing Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals in indoors and urban canyons by handheld devices. To overcome the signal attenuation problem in such adverse fading environments, long coherent integration is normally used. Moving the antenna arbitrarily while collecting signals is generally avoided as it temporally decorrelates the signals and limits the coherent integration gain. This decorrelation is a function of the antenna displacement and geometry of reflectors and angle of arrival of the received signal. Hence, to have an optimum receiver processing strategy it is crucial to characterize the multipath fading channel parameters. Herein, Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Angle Spread (AS) along with signal spatial correlation coefficient and fading intensity in GNSS multipath indoor channels are defined and quantified theoretically and practically. A synthetic uniform circular array utilizing a right-hand circular polarized (RHCP) antenna has been used to measure the spatial characteristics of indoor GNSS fading channels. Furthermore, rotating effect of a circular polarized antenna on the synthetic array processing and AoA estimation has been characterized. The performance of the beamforming technique via array gain is also assessed to explore the advantages and limitations of beamforming in fading conditions.
Treatment of Endovascular Coil and Stent Migration Using the Merci Retriever: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Kung David K. , Abel Taylor J. , Madhavan Karthik H. , Dalyai Richard T. , Dlouhy Brian J. , Liu Wei , Jabbour Pascal M. , Hasan David M.
Published: May 2012

Background.Coil and stent migration is a potentially catastrophic complication in endovascular neurosurgery, which may lead to cerebral thromboembolism. Techniques for removing migrated coil and stent are not well established.Methods and Results.We present three cases in which coil or stent migration occurred during endovascular embolization of a cerebral aneurysm. The Merci Retrievers were used successfully in all cases to remove the displaced foreign bodies. Technical details are described.Conclusion.The Merci Retriever device can be utilized successfully for removal of migrated coils and stents in endovascular neurosurgery.
The Acute and Residual Effect of a Single Exercise Session on Meal Glucose Tolerance in Sedentary Young Adults
Authors: Short Kevin R. , Pratt Lauren V. , Teague April M.
Published: May 2012

The study goals were to (1) establish the variability in postprandial glucose control in healthy young people consuming a mixed meal and, then (2) determine the acute and residual impact of a single exercise bout on postprandial glucose control. In study 1, 18 people completed two similar mixed meal trials and an intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT). There were strong test-retest correlations for the post-meal area under the curve (AUC) for glucose, insulin, and Cpeptide (r=0.73–0.83) and the Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (ISI,r=0.76), and between meal and IVGTT-derived ISI (r=0.83). In study 2, 11 untrained young adults completed 3 trials. One trial (No Ex) was completed after refraining from vigorous activity for ≥3 days. On the other 2 trials, a 45-min aerobic exercise bout was performed either 17-hours (Prior Day Ex) or 1-hour (Same Day Ex) before consuming the test meal. Compared to No Ex and Prior Day Ex, which did not differ from one another, there were lower AUCs on the Same Day Ex trial for glucose (6%), insulin (20%) and C-peptide (14%). Thus, a single moderate intensity exercise session can acutely improve glycemic control but the effect is modest and short-lived.
Generalization of the Analytical Exponential Model for Homogeneous Reactor Kinetics Equations
Authors: Nahla Abdallah A. , Al-Ghamdi Mohammed F.
Published: May 2012

Mathematical form for two energy groups of three‐dimensional homogeneous reactor kinetics equations and average one group of the precursor concentration of delayed neutrons is presented. This mathematical form is called “two energy groups of the point kinetics equations.” We rewrite two energy groups of the point kinetics equations in the matrix form. Generalization of the analytical exponential model (GAEM) is developed for solving two energy groups of the point kinetics equations. The GAEM is based on the eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenvectors of the coefficient matrix. The eigenvalues of the coefficient matrix are calculated numerically using visual FORTRAN code, based on Laguerre’s method, to calculate the roots of an algebraic equation with real coefficients. The eigenvectors of the coefficient matrix are calculated analytically. The results of the GAEM are compared with the traditional methods. These comparisons substantiate the accuracy of the results of the GAEM. In addition, the GAEM is faster than the traditional methods.
Pregnancy in HIV-Positive Patients: Effects on Vaginal Flora
Authors: Vallone Cristina , Rigon Giuliano , Lucantoni Valeria , Putignani Lorenza , Signore Fabrizio
Published: May 2012

A high proportion of HIV-infected pregnant women present pathogenic organisms in their lower genital tract. This has been associated with the development of postpartum morbility, HIV transmission to the partner and offspring, and other gynaecological conditions, such as cervical dysplasia or cancer. Vaginal flora alterations can range from 47% in Western countries to 89% in Africa in pregnant HIV-positive patients, much higher than about 20% of the general population. Pathogen organism retrieval is high. As peripartum complications due to vaginal infections seem higher in HIV-positive patients, accurate investigation and treatment of such infections are strongly mandatory.
Engaging Stem Cells for Customized Tendon Regeneration
Authors: Thaker Hatim , Sharma Arun K.
Published: May 2012

The need for a consistent therapeutic approach to tendon injury repair is long overdue. Patients with tendon microtears or full ruptures are eligible for a wide range of invasive and non invasive interventions, often subjectively decided by the physician. Surgery produces the best outcomes, and while studies have been conducted to optimize graft constructs and to track outcomes, the data from these studies have been inconclusive on the whole. What has been established is a clear understanding of healthy tendon architecture and the inherent process of healing. With this knowledge, tissue regeneration efforts have achieved immense progress in scaffold design, cell line selection, and, more recently, the appropriate use of cytokines and growth factors. This paper evaluates the plasticity of bone-marrow-derived stem cells and the elasticity of recently developed biomaterials towards tendon regeneration efforts. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), hematopoietic progenitor cells, and poly(1,8-octanediol co-citrate) scaffolds (POC) are discussed in the context of established grafting strategies. With POC scaffolds to cradle the growth of MSCs and hematopoietic progenitor cells, developing a fibroelastic network guided by cytokines and growth factors may contribute towards consistent graft constructs, enhanced functionality, and better patient outcomes.
Heterogeneity in Past Year Cigarette Smoking Quit Attempts among Latinos
Authors: Gundersen Daniel A. , Echeverria Sandra E. , Lewis M. Jane , Giovino Gary A. , Ohman-Strickland Pamela , Delnevo Cristine D.
Published: May 2012

Objective. Examine the association between English language proficiency (ELP) and immigrant generation and having made a cigarette smoking quit attempt in the past 12 months among Latinos. Examine if gender moderates the association between acculturation and quit attempts.Methods. Latino past year smokers from the 2003 and 2006/07 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between quit attempt and ELP and immigrant generation, controlling for demographics and smoking characteristics.Results. Latinos with poor ELP were more likely to have made a quit attempt compared to those with good ELP (adjusted odds ratio , confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.46) after controlling for demographic and smoking characteristics. First (, CI: 1.02–1.43) and second generation immigrants (, CI: 1.12–1.64) were more likely than third generation immigrants to have made a quit attempt in the past 12 months.Conclusion. Quit behaviors are shaped by differences in language ability and generational status among Latinos. This underscores the need to disaggregate Latinos beyond racial/ethnic categories to identify subgroup differences relevant for smoking and smoking cessation behaviors in this population.
Causes of Death in HIV Patients and the Evolution of an AIDS Hospice: 1988–2008
Authors: Stewart Ann , Chan Carusone Soo , To Kent , Schaefer-McDaniel Nicole , Halman Mark , Grimes Richard
Published: May 2012

This paper reports on the transformation that has occurred in the care of people living with HIV/AIDS in a Toronto Hospice. Casey House opened in the pre-HAART era to care exclusively for people with HIV/AIDS, an incurable disease. At the time, all patients were admitted for palliative care and all deaths were due to AIDS-defining conditions. AIDS-defining malignancies accounted for 22 percent of deaths, mainly, Kaposi sarcoma and lymphoma. In the post-HAART era, AIDS-defining malignancies dropped dramatically and non-AIDS-defining malignancies became a significant cause of death, including liver cancer, lung cancer and gastric cancers. In the post-HAART era, people living with HIV/AIDS served at Casey House have changed considerably, with increasing numbers of patients facing homelessness and mental health issues, including substance use. Casey House offers a picture of the evolving epidemic and provides insight into changes and improvements made in the care of these patients.
Expression and Role of the Intermediate-Conductance Calcium-Activated Potassium Channel KCa3.1 in Glioblastoma
Authors: Catacuzzeno Luigi , Fioretti Bernard , Franciolini Fabio
Published: May 2012

Glioblastomas are characterized by altered expression of several ion channels that have important consequences in cell functions associated with their aggressiveness, such as cell survival, proliferation, and migration. Data on the altered expression and function of the intermediate-conductance calcium-activated K (KCa3.1) channels in glioblastoma cells have only recently become available. This paper aims to (i) illustrate the main structural, biophysical, pharmacological, and modulatory properties of the KCa3.1 channel, (ii) provide a detailed account of data on the expression of this channel in glioblastoma cells, as compared to normal brain tissue, and (iii) critically discuss its major functional roles. Available data suggest that KCa3.1 channels (i) are highly expressed in glioblastoma cells but only scantly in the normal brain parenchima, (ii) play an important role in the control of glioblastoma cell migration. Altogether, these data suggest KCa3.1 channels as potential candidates for a targeted therapy against this tumor.
Ranking for Objects and Attribute Reductions in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Ordered Information Systems
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Xu Weihua
Published: May 2012

We aim to investigate intuitionistic fuzzy ordered information
systems. The concept of intuitionistic fuzzy ordered information
systems is proposed firstly by introducing an intuitionistic fuzzy relation
to ordered information systems. And a ranking approach for all objects
is constructed in this system. In order to simplify knowledge representation,
it is necessary to reduce some dispensable attributes in the system.
Theories of rough set are investigated in intuitionistic fuzzy ordered information
systems by defining two approximation operators. Moreover,
judgement theorems and methods of attribute reduction are discussed
based on discernibility matrix in the systems, and an illustrative example is
employed to show its validity. These results will be helpful for decisionmaking
analysis in intuitionistic fuzzy ordered information systems.
Role of Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase Pathway in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Du Li , Shen Jingping , Weems Andrew , Lu Shi-Long
Published: May 2012

Activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is one of the most frequently observed molecular alterations in many human malignancies, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). A growing body of evidence demonstrates the prime importance of the PI3K pathway at each stage of tumorigenesis, that is, tumor initiation, progression, recurrence, and metastasis. Expectedly, targeting the PI3K pathway yields some promising results in both preclinical studies and clinical trials for certain cancer patients. However, there are still many questions that need to be answered, given the complexity of this pathway and the existence of its multiple feedback loops and interactions with other signaling pathways. In this paper, we will summarize recent advances in the understanding of the PI3K pathway role in human malignancies, with an emphasis on HNSCC, and discuss the clinical applications and future direction of this field.
Study on Surface Heat Budget of Various Pavements for Urban Heat Island Mitigation
Authors: Takebayashi Hideki , Moriyama Masakazu
Published: May 2012

The surface heat budgets of various pavement surfaces are studied with the aim of mitigating the urban heat island effect. In this study, the thermal characteristics of pavements are examined using data from observations. The net radiation, surface temperature, temperature under the surface, conduction heat flux, and core weight for each experimental surface are recorded, together with the weather conditions at the time of observation. The latent heat flux is estimated from the observed weight of the cores. The surface heat budget under the same weather conditions is examined, and the sensible heat flux from each target surface is calculated. The parameters that influence the surface heat budget, for example, solar reflectance (albedo), evaporative efficiency, heat conductivity, and heat capacity, are examined. On a typical summer day, the maximum reduction in the sensible heat flux from that on a normal asphalt surface is about 150 W/m2for an asphalt surface with water-retaining material and about 100 W/m2for a cement concrete surface with water-retaining material, depending on the albedo of each surface.
Probing Retroviral and Retrotransposon Genome Structures: The “SHAPE” of Things to Come
Authors: Sztuba-Solinska Joanna , Le Grice Stuart F. J.
Published: May 2012

Understanding the nuances of RNA structure as they pertain to biological function remains a formidable challenge for retrovirus research and development of RNA-based therapeutics, an area of particular importance with respect to combating HIV infection. Although a variety of chemical and enzymatic RNA probing techniques have been successfully employed for more than 30 years, they primarily interrogate small (100–500 nt) RNAs that have been removed from their biological context, potentially eliminating long-range tertiary interactions (such as kissing loops and pseudoknots) that may play a critical regulatory role. Selective 2′hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (SHAPE), pioneered recently by Merino and colleagues, represents a facile, user-friendly technology capable of interrogating RNA structure with a single reagent and, combined with automated capillary electrophoresis, can analyze an entire 10,000-nucleotide RNA genome in a matter of weeks. Despite these obvious advantages, SHAPE essentially provides a nucleotide “connectivity map,” conversion of which into a 3-D structure requires a variety of complementary approaches. This paper summarizes contributions from SHAPE towards our understanding of the structure of retroviral genomes, modifications to which technology that have been developed to address some of its limitations, and future challenges.
A Rare Case of Myeloid Sarcoma Presenting as an Anorectal Ulcer
Authors: Parsa Laxmi , Bijpuria Priti , Ringold Daniel , Stein David
Published: May 2012

Myeloid Sarcoma is a rare tumor composed of myeloblasts occurring at an extramedullary site like bones, or various soft tissues. Myeloid sarcoma may involve the gastrointestinal tract very rarely either solitarily, or occurring simultaneously with acute myeloid leukemia. Its diagnosis is challenging and needs biopsy and immunohistochemical staining. We are describing a case of myeloid sarcoma which presented as a painful anal ulcer mimicking an atypical fissure. Its appearance resembled crohn’s disease on sigmoidoscopy. A biopsy of the ulcer along with histochemical staining led to the diagnosis of myeloid sarcoma. Our case demonstrates the need for aggressive evaluation of any common gastrointestinal complaint with an atypical presentation.
The End-Organ Impairment in Liver Cirrhosis: Appointments for Critical Care
Authors: Figueiredo Antonio , Romero-Bermejo Francisco , Perdigoto Rui , Marcelino Paulo
Published: May 2012

Liver cirrhosis (LC) can lead to a clinical state of liver failure, which can exacerbate through the course of the disease. New therapies aimed to control the diverse etiologies are now more effective, although the disease may result in advanced stages of liver failure, where liver transplantation (LT) remains the most effective treatment. The extended lifespan of these patients and the extended possibilities of liver support devices make their admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) more probable. In this paper the LC is approached from the point of view of the pathophysiological alterations present in LC patients previous to ICU admission, particularly cardiovascular, but also renal, coagulopathic, and encephalopathic. Infections and available liver detoxifications devices also deserve mentioning. We intend to contribute towards ICU physician readiness to the care for this particular type of patients, possibly in dedicated ICUs.
Investigational Paradigms in Downscoring and Upscoring DCIS: Surgical Management Review
Authors: Orsaria P. , Granai A. V. , Venditti D. , Petrella G. , Buonomo O.
Published: May 2012

Counseling patients with DCIS in a rational manner can be extremely difficult when the range of treatment criteria results in diverse and confusing clinical recommendations. Surgeons need tools that quantify measurable prognostic factors to be used in conjunction with clinical experience for the complex decision-making process. Combination of statistically significant tumor recurrence predictors and lesion parameters obtained after initial excision suggests that patients with DCIS can be stratified into specific subsets allowing a scientifically based discussion. The goal is to choose the treatment regimen that will significantly benefit each patient group without subjecting the patients to unnecessary risks. Exploring the effectiveness of complete excision may offer a starting place in a new way of reasoning and conceiving surgical modalities in terms of “downscoring” or “upscoring” patient risk, perhaps changing clinical approach. Reexcison may lower the specific subsets' score and improve local recurrence-free survival also by revealing a larger tumor size, a higher nuclear grade, or an involved margin and so suggesting the best management. It seems, that the key could be identifying significant relapse predictive factors, according to validated risk investigation models, whose value is modifiable by the surgical approach which avails of different diagnostic and therapeutic potentials to be optimal. Certainly DCIS clinical question cannot have a single curative mode due to heterogeneity of pathological lesions and histologic classification.
Focal Therapy, Differential Therapy, and Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Jain Anudh K. , Ennis Ronald D.
Published: May 2012

Focal and differential therapy represent an approach to improve the therapeutic ratio of prostate cancer treatments. This concept is a shift from treating the whole gland to intensely treating the portion of the gland that contains significant tumor. However, there are many challenges in the move towards focal approaches. Defining which patients are suitable candidates for focal therapy approaches is an area of significant controversy, and it is likely that additional data from imaging or detailed biopsy methods is needed in addition to traditional risk factors. A number of methods have been suggested, and imaging with multiparametric MRI and transperineal template mapping biopsy have shown promise. The approach of differential therapy where the entire prostate is treated to a lower intensity and the tumor areas to high intensity is also discussed in detail. Radiation therapy is a well suited modality for the delivery of differential therapy. Data in the literature using external beam radiation, high dose rate brachytherapy, and low-dose rate brachytherapy for differential therapy are reviewed. Preliminary results are encouraging, and larger studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to validate this approach.
Combustion of Methanol Droplets in Air-Diluent Environments with Reduced and Normal Gravity
Authors: Shaw Benjamin , Wei Jingbin
Published: May 2012

Reduced and normal gravity combustion experiments were performed with fiber-supported methanol droplets with initial diameters in the 1 mm size range. Experiments were performed with air-diluent mixtures at about 0.101 MPa and 298 K, where carbon dioxide, helium, or xenon was separately used as the diluent gas. Results indicate that ambient gas transport properties play an important role in determining flammability and combustion behaviors including burning rates and radiant heat output histories of the droplets. Droplets would burn with significantly higher mole fractions of xenon than helium or carbon dioxide. In reduced gravity, droplets would burn steadily with a xenon mole fraction of 0.50 but would not burn steadily if helium or carbon dioxide mole fractions were 0.50. Comparison with previous experimental data shows that ignitability and combustion characteristics of droplets are influenced by the fuel type and also the gravitational level. Burning rates were about 40% to 70% higher in normal gravity than in reduced gravity. Methanol droplets also had burning rates that were typically larger than 1-propanol burning rates by about 20% in reduced gravity. In normal gravity, however, burning rate differences between the two fuels were significantly smaller.
The Influence of Partial Knee Replacement Designs on Tensile Strain at Implant-Bone Interface
Authors: Wang He , Rolston Lindsey
Published: May 2012

Partial knee replacement (PKR) results in fast recovery and good knee mechanics and is ideal to treat medial knee osteoarthritis. Cementless PKR depends on bone growing into the implant surface for long-term fixation. Implant loosening may occur due to high tensile strain resulted from large mechanical loads during rehab exercises. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether external fixations such as superior screw and frontal flange could reduce the tensile strain at the implant-bone interface. Three medial PKRs were designed. The first PKR had no external fixations. A superior screw and a frontal flange were then added to the first PKR to form the second and third PKR designs, respectively. Finite element analysis was performed to examine the tensile strain at the implant-bone interface during weight-bearing exercises. The PKR with no external fixations exhibited high tensile strain at the anterior implant-bone interface. Both the screwed and flanged PKRs effectively reduced the tensile strain at the anterior implant-bone interface. Furthermore, the flanged PKR resulted in a more uniform reduction of the tensile strain than the screwed PKR. In conclusion, external fixations are necessary to alleviate tensile strain at the implant-bone interface during knee rehab exercises.
Mitochondrial Stress Signalling: HTRA2 and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Desideri Enrico , Martins L. Miguel
Published: May 2012

Mitochondria are cellular energy generators whose activity requires a continuous supply of oxygen. Recent genetic analysis has suggested that defects in mitochondrial quality control may be key factors in the development of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Mitochondria have a crucial role in supplying energy to the brain, and their deterioration can affect the function and viability of neurons, contributing to neurodegeneration. These organelles can sow the seeds of their own demise because they generate damaging oxygen-free radicals as a byproduct of their intrinsic physiological functions. Mitochondria have therefore evolved specific molecular quality control mechanisms to compensate for the action of damaging agents such as oxygen-free radicals. PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) and high-temperature-regulated A2 (HTRA2), a mitochondrial protease, have recently been proposed to be key modulators of mitochondrial molecular quality control. Here, we review some of the most recent advances in our understanding of mitochondria stress-control pathways, focusing on how signalling by the p38 stress kinase pathway may regulate mitochondrial stress by modulating the activity of HTRA2 via PINK1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5). We also propose how defects in this pathway may contribute to PD.
An Ultrasound Study of Cerebral Venous Drainage after Internal Jugular Vein Catheterization
Authors: Vailati Davide , Lamperti Massimo , Subert Matteo , Sommariva Alberto
Published: May 2012

Objectives. It has been advocated that internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation in patients at risk for intracranial hypertension could impair cerebral venous return. Aim of this study was to demonstrate that ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation in elective neurosurgical patients is safe and does not impair cerebral venous return.Methods. IJV cross-sectional diameter and flow were measured using two-dimensional ultrasound and Doppler function bilaterally before and after IJV cannulation with the head supine and elevated at 30°.Results. Fifty patients with intracranial lesions at risk for intracranial hypertension were enrolled in this observational prospective study. IJV diameters before and after ultrasound-guided cannulation were not statistically different during supine or head-up position and the absolute variation of the venous flow revealed an average reduction of the venous flow after cannulation without a significant reduction of the venous flow rate after cannulation.Conclusions. Ultrasound-guided IJV cannulation in neurosurgical patients at risk for intracranial hypertension does not impair significantly jugular venous flow and indirectly cerebral venous return.
Evolutionary History of Lake Tanganyika’s Predatory Deepwater Cichlids
Authors: Kirchberger Paul C. , Sefc Kristina M. , Sturmbauer Christian , Koblmüller Stephan
Published: May 2012

Hybridization among littoral cichlid species in Lake Tanganyika was inferred in several molecular phylogenetic studies. The phenomenon is generally attributed to the lake level-induced shoreline and habitat changes. These allow for allopatric divergence of geographically fragmented populations alternating with locally restricted secondary contact and introgression between incompletely isolated taxa. In contrast, the deepwater habitat is characterized by weak geographic structure and a high potential for gene flow, which may explain the lower species richness of deepwater than littoral lineages. For the same reason, divergent deepwater lineages should have evolved strong intrinsic reproductive isolation already in the incipient stages of diversification, and, consequently, hybridization among established lineages should have been less frequent than in littoral lineages. We test this hypothesis in the endemic Lake Tanganyika deepwater cichlid tribe Bathybatini by comparing phylogenetic trees of Hemibates and Bathybates species obtained with nuclear multilocus AFLP data with a phylogeny based on mitochondrial sequences. Consistent with our hypothesis, largely congruent tree topologies and negative tests for introgression provided no evidence for introgressive hybridization between the deepwater taxa. Together, the nuclear and mitochondrial data established a well-supported phylogeny and suggested ecological segregation during speciation.
The Link between Hypersensitivity Syndrome Reaction Development and Human Herpes Virus-6 Reactivation
Authors: Pritchett Joshua C. , Nanau Radu M. , Neuman Manuela G.
Published: May 2012

Background. There are challenges in the clinical diagnosis of drug-induced injury and in obtaining information on the reactivation of human herpes viruses (HHV) during idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions.Objectives. (i) To develop a unified list of drugs incriminated in drug-induced hepatotoxicity and severe cutaneous reactions, in which drug hypersensitivity leads to HHV-6 reactivation and further complication of therapy and recovery and (ii) to supplement the already available data on reporting frequencies of liver- or skin-induced cases with knowledge of individual case reports, including HHV-6 reactivation and briefly introducing chromosomally integrated HHV-6.Data Sources and Extraction. Drugs identified as causes of (i) idiosyncratic reactions, (ii) drug-induced hypersensitivity, drug-induced hepatotoxicity, acute liver failure, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and (iii) human herpes virus reactivation in PubMed since 1997 have been collected and discussed.Results. Data presented in this paper show that HHV-6 reactivation is associated with more severe organ involvement and a prolonged course of disease.Conclusion. This analysis of HHV-6 reactivation associated with drug-induced severe cutaneous reactions and hepatotoxicity will aid in causality assessment and clinical diagnosis of possible life-threatening events and will provide a basis for further patient characterization and therapy.
A Novel Aspartic Protease with HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitory Activity from Fresh Fruiting Bodies of the Wild MushroomXylaria hypoxylon
Authors: Hu Qing-Xiu , Zhang Guo-Qing , Zhang Rui-Ying , Hu Dan-Dan , Wang He-Xiang , Ng Tzi Bun
Published: May 2012

A novel aspartic protease with HIV-1 RT inhibitory activity was isolated and characterized from fruiting bodies of the wild mushroomXylaria hypoxylon. The purification protocol comprised distilled water homogenization and extraction step, three ion exchange chromatographic steps (on DEAE-cellulose, Q-Sepharose, and CM-cellulose in succession), and final purification was by FPLC on Superdex 75. The protease was adsorbed on all the three ion exchangers. It was a monomeric protein with a molecular mass of 43 kDa as estimated by SDS-PAGE and FPLC. Its N-terminal amino acid sequence was HYTELLSQVV, which exhibited no sequence homology to other proteases reported. The activity of the protease was adversely affected by Pepstatin A, indicating that it is an aspartic protease. The protease activity was maximal or nearly so in the pH range 6–8 and in the temperature range 35–60°C. The purified enzyme exhibited HIV-1 RT inhibitory activity with an IC50value of 8.3 μM, but was devoid of antifungal, ribonuclease, and hemagglutinating activities.
Soluble Host Defense Lectins in Innate Immunity to Influenza Virus
Authors: Ng Wy Ching , Tate Michelle D. , Brooks Andrew G. , Reading Patrick C.
Published: May 2012

Host defenses against viral infections depend on a complex interplay of innate (nonspecific) and adaptive (specific) components. In the early stages of infection, innate mechanisms represent the main line of host defense, acting to limit the spread of virus in host tissues prior to the induction of the adaptive immune response. Serum and lung fluids contain a range of lectins capable of recognizing and destroying influenza A viruses (IAV). Herein, we review the mechanisms by which soluble endogenous lectins mediate anti-IAV activity, including their role in modulating IAV-induced inflammation and disease and their potential as prophylactic and/or therapeutic treatments during severe IAV-induced disease.
Nesting Activity and Behavior ofOsmia cornifrons(Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) Elucidated Using Videography
Authors: McKinney Matthew I. , Park Yong-Lak
Published: May 2012

Osmia cornifronsRadoszkowski (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae) is utilized as an alternate pollinator toApis melliferaL. (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in early-season fruit crops. This study was conducted to investigate nesting activities and associated behaviors ofO. cornifrons.Osmia cornifronsnesting activity was recorded by using a digital video recorder with infrared cameras. Nesting behavior of ten femaleO. cornifronswas observed, and the number of nesting trips per hour was recorded. Trends in daily activity were determined with regression analysis, and chi square analysis was used to determine ifO. cornifronsspent a greater amount of time performing certain activities. The percentage of time required to gather nesting resources and complete nest construction activities was recorded from the video footage. Results of this study showed that pollen gathering was the most time-consuming gathering activity, requiring221.6±28.69 min per cell and cell provisioning was the most time-consuming intranest activity, requiring 28.9 min ± 3.97 min. We also found thatO. cornifronsactivity was correlated with time of day, temperature, and precipitation. Various nesting behaviors, including cell provisioning and partitioning, oviposition, grooming, resting and sleeping, nest-searching, and repairing behaviors, are described in this paper.
Rinsability of Orthophthalaldehyde from Endoscopes
Authors: Miner Norman , Harris Valerie , Lukomski Natalie , Ebron Towanda
Published: May 2012

Orthophthalaldehyde high level disinfectants are contraindicated for use with urological instruments such as cystoscopes due to anaphylaxis-like allergic reactions during surveillance of bladder cancer patients. Allergic reactions and mucosal injuries have also been reported following colonoscopy, laryngoscopy, and transesophageal echocardiography with devices disinfected using orthophthalaldehyde. Possibly these endoscopes were not adequately rinsed after disinfection by orthophthalaldehyde. We examined this possibility by means of a zone-of-inhibition test, and also a test to extract residues of orthophthalaldehyde with acetonitrile, from sections of endoscope insertion tube materials, to measure the presence of alkaline glutaraldehyde, or glutaraldehyde plus 20% w/w isopropanol, or ortho-phthalaldehyde that remained on the endoscope materials after exposure to these disinfectants followed by a series of rinses in water, or by aeration overnight. Zones of any size indicated the disinfectant had not been rinsed away from the endoscope material. There were no zones of inhibition surrounding endoscope materials soaked in glutaraldehyde or glutaraldehyde plus isopropanol after three serial water rinses according to manufacturers' rinsing directions. The endoscope material soaked in orthophthalaldehyde produced zones of inhibition even after fifteen serial rinses with water. Orthophthalaldehyde was extracted from the rinsed endoscope material by acetonitrile. These data, and other information, indicate that the high level disinfectant orthophthalaldehyde, also known as 1,2-benzene dialdehyde, cannot be rinsed away from flexible endoscope material with any practical number of rinses with water, or by drying overnight.
On Complete Convergence of Moving Average Process for AANA Sequence
Authors: Yang Wenzhi , Wang Xuejun , Ling Nengxiang , Hu Shuhe
Published: May 2012

We investigate the moving average process such that , n ≥ 1, where and {Yi, 1 ≤ i < ∞} is a sequence of asymptotically almost negatively associated (AANA) random variables. The complete convergence, complete moment convergence, and the existence of the moment of supermum of normed partial sums are presented for this moving average process.
Altered Gene Expression, Mitochondrial Damage and Oxidative Stress: Converging Routes in Motor Neuron Degeneration
Authors: Rossi Luisa , Valle Cristiana , Carrì Maria Teresa
Published: May 2012

Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are a rather heterogeneous group of diseases, with either sporadic or genetic origin or both, all characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons. At the cellular level, MNDs share features such as protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial damage and energy deficit, and excitotoxicity and calcium mishandling. This is particularly well demonstrated in ALS, where both sporadic and familial forms share the same symptoms and pathological phenotype, with a prominent role for mitochondrial damage and resulting oxidative stress. Based on recent data, however, altered control of gene expression seems to be a most relevant, and previously overlooked, player in MNDs. Here we discuss which may be the links that make pathways apparently as different as altered gene expression, mitochondrial damage, and oxidative stress converge to generate a similar motoneuron-toxic phenotype.
Numerical Studies on Heat Release Rate in Room Fire on Liquid Fuel under Different Ventilation Factors
Authors: Cai N. , Chow W. K.
Published: May 2012

Heat release rate (HRR) of the design fire is the most important parameter in assessing building fire hazards. However, HRR in room fire was only studied by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in most of the projects determining fire safety provisions by performance-based design. In contrast to ten years ago, officers in the Far East are now having better knowledge of CFD. Two common questions are raised on CFD-predicted results on describing free boundaries; and on computing grid size. In this work, predicting HRR by the CFD model was justified with experimental room pool fire data reported earlier. The software fire dynamics simulator (FDS) version 5 was selected as the CFD simulation tool. Prescribed input heating rate based on the experimental results was used with the liquid fuel model in FDS. Five different free boundary conditions were investigated to predict HRR. Grid sensitivity study was carried out using one stretched mesh and multiple uniform meshes with different grid sizes. As it is difficult to have the entire set of CFD predicted results agreed with experiments, macroscopic flow parameters on the mass flow rate through door opening predicted by CFD were also justified by another four conditions with different ventilation factors.
Scaling Group Transformation for MHD Boundary Layer Slip Flow of a Nanofluid over a Convectively Heated Stretching Sheet with Heat Generation
Authors: Uddin Md. Jashim , Khan W. A. , Ismail A. I. Md.
Published: May 2012

Steady viscous incompressible MHD laminar boundary layer slip flow of an electrically conducting nanofluid over a convectively heated permeable moving linearly stretching sheet has been investigated numerically. The effects of Brownian motion, thermophoresis, magnetic field, and heat generation/absorption are included in the nanofluid model. The similarity transformations for the governing equations are developed. The effects of the pertinent parameters, Lewis number, magnetic field, Brownian motion, heat generation, thermophoretic, momentum slip and Biot number on the flow field, temperature, skin friction factor, heat transfer rate, and nanoparticle, volume fraction rate are displayed in both graphical and tabular forms. Comparisons of analytical (for special cases) and numerical solutions with the existing results in the literature are made and is found a close agreement, that supports the validity of the present analysis and the accuracy of our numerical computations. Results for the reduced Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are provided in tabular and graphical forms for various values of the flow controlling parameters which govern the momentum, energy, and the nanoparticle volume fraction transport in the MHD boundary layer.
Clinical Predictors of Mortality in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities with and without Down Syndrome
Authors: Thorpe Lilian , Pahwa Punam , Bennett Vernon , Kirk Andrew , Nanson Josephine
Published: May 2012

Background.Mood, baseline functioning, and cognitive abilities as well as psychotropic medications may contribute to mortality in adults with and without Down Syndrome (DS).Methods.Population-based (nonclinical), community-dwelling adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) were recruited between 1995 and 2000, assessed individually for 1–4 times, and then followed by yearly phone calls.Results.360 participants (116 with DS and 244 without DS) were followed for an average of 12.9 years (range 0–16.1 years as of July 2011). 108 people died during the course of the followup, 65 males (31.9% of all male participants) and 43 females (27.6% of all female participants). Cox proportional hazards modeling showed that baseline practical skills, seizures, anticonvulsant use, depressive symptoms, and cognitive decline over the first six years all significantly contributed to mortality, as did a diagnosis of DS, male gender, and higher age at study entry. Analysis stratified by DS showed interesting differences in mortality predictors.Conclusion.Although adults with DS have had considerable improvements in life expectancy over time, they are still disadvantaged compared to adults with ID without DS. Recognition of potentially modifiable factors such as depression may decrease this risk.
Pilot Study Results from a Brief Intervention to Create Smoke-Free Homes
Authors: Kegler Michelle C. , Escoffery Cam , Bundy Lucja , Berg Carla J. , Haardörfer Regine , Yembra Debbie , Schauer Gillian
Published: May 2012

Very few community-based intervention studies have examined how to effectively increase the adoption of smoke-free homes. A pilot study was conducted to test the feasibility, acceptability, and short-term outcomes of a brief, four-component intervention for promoting smoke-free home policies among low-income households. We recruited forty participants (20 smokers and 20 nonsmokers) to receive the intervention at two-week intervals. The design was a pretest-posttest with follow-up at two weeks after intervention. The primary outcome measure was self-reported presence of a total home smoking ban. At follow-up, 78% of participants reported having tried to establish a smoke-free rule in their home, with significantly more nonsmokers attempting a smoke-free home than smokers (P=.03). These attempts led to increased smoking restrictions, that is, going from no ban to a partial or total ban, or from a partial to a total ban, in 43% of the homes. At follow-up, 33% of the participants reported having made their home totally smoke-free. Additionally, smokers reported smoking fewer cigarettes per day. Results suggest that the intervention is promising and warrants a rigorous efficacy trial.