bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of till geochemical and indicator mineral data to the interpretation of the thick till sequence at Muhos, northern Finland
Authors: Lunkka J. P. , Peuraniemi V. , Nikarmaa T.
Published: July 2013

Recent drilling at Muhos, northern Finland has revealed an exceptionally thick Quaternary sediment cover, overlying the unmetamorphosed Neoproterozoic Muhos Siltstone Formation in the Oulujoki River Valley. Here we report preliminary petrographical, geochemical and heavy mineral results from four till units from the Muhos drill-core.

The drilling site is located at 27 m asl,
c.
1 km south of Oulujoki River and 30 km SE from the city of Oulu and the present shore of the Bothnian Bay of the Baltic Sea. The drilling at this site was performed with a GM 200 GTT drilling platform using 1 -m long sample tubes (HDPV, diameter 5 cm) inside the stainless steel cover tubes. The coring penetrated down to the siltstone bedrock 54 m below the ground surface and the sediment core recovery was over 75%. The sedimentary sequence from the ground surface down to the local siltstone bedrock consists of four till units interbedded with sand/silt/clay beds. The upper two till beds, Mu-1 and Mu-2, are interpreted as being deposited during the Weichselian Glaciation between 115 000–10 000 years ago, the third till bed Mu-3 during the Saalian and the lowest till bed, Mu-4, during the Saalian or pre-Saalian glaciations, i.e. till beds Mu-3 and Mu-4 prior to
c.
130 000 years ago.

Petrography of the coarse fraction, geochemistry of the fine fraction and heavy minerals of the sand fraction were studied from all four till units and the Muhos siltstone samples. Coarse and fine fractions were separated by dry-sieving. The fine fraction was analysed by XRF and AAS. The mineralogical composition of the heavy fraction was studied by FESEM+EDS and SEM+EDS.

The lowest till bed Mu-4 can be divided into three subunits. On the basis of clast content, geochemistry of till fines the ice movement direction was from the NW or NNW during the deposition of the lowermost brown and red till units. The composition of the upper grey unit of till bed Mu-4 shows that the ice flow direction was from the WNW. Petrographical composition of till beds Mu-3 and Mu-2 indicates that the ice flow again was from the NW whereas the petrographical composition of the uppermost till bed Mu-1 suggests that the ice flow during this deposition phase was from the WNW. Younger till beds studied have in part also some reworked and re-deposited material from the older till beds.

Supplementary material:

The percentages of the rock types in pebble and gravel fraction, XRF and AAS analysis of the samples and identified mineral species of the heavy sand fraction are available at:
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18659
Geology, conservation and dissolution of corpses by Paolo Gorini (1813–1881)
Authors: Lorusso Lorenzo , Falconi Bruno , Franchini Francesca Antonia , Porro Alessandro
Published: July 2013

Paolo Gorini (1813–1881), an Italian mathematician, is considered one of the fathers of experimental geology, and his work contributed to the evolution of medicine and hygiene. In 1844, he studied food conservation and worked out a method for conserving corpses and anatomical specimens, approved by the Medical School of Pavia. His geological studies mainly concerned mineralisation. At that time several researchers, including Jean Nicolas Gannal (1791–1852), Girolamo Segato (1792–1836), Ludovico Brunetti (1813–1899) and Efisio Marini (1835–1900), experimented on the scientific conservation of corpses. Later (1851), Gorini studied the formation of mountains and suggested experiments and demonstrations to produce volcanoes artificially. These studies were fundamental to realizing the early methods of corpse cremation in order to solve the problem of hygiene in cities and cemeteries. Gorini also supervised the construction of the first crematorium (Woking, UK). Gorini conserved the corpse of the Italian politician Giuseppe Mazzini (1805–1872). Gorini’s theories were not scientifically confirmed, but his attempt to understand the Universe and the origin of life and evolution by means of a single law is interesting as an early model for the emerging positivism of that time.
Maternal hyperglycemia leads to fetal cardiac hyperplasia and dysfunction in a rat model
Authors: Lehtoranta Lara , Vuolteenaho Olli , Laine V. Jukka , Koskinen Anna , Soukka Hanna , Kytö Ville , Määttä Jorma , Haapsamo Mervi , Ekholm Eeva , Räsänen Juha
Published: July 2013

Accelerated fetal myocardial growth with altered cardiac function is a well-documented complication of human diabetic pregnancy, but its pathophysiology is still largely unknown. Our aim was to explore the mechanisms of fetal cardiac remodeling and cardiovascular hemodynamics in a rat model of maternal pregestational streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia. The hyperglycemic group comprised 107 fetuses (10 dams) and the control group 219 fetuses (20 dams). Fetal cardiac function was assessed serially by Doppler ultrasonography. Fetal cardiac to thoracic area ratio, newborn heart weight, myocardial cell proliferative and apoptotic activities, and cardiac gene expression patterns were determined. Maternal hyperglycemia was associated with increased cardiac size, proliferative, apoptotic and mitotic activities, upregulation of genes encoding A- and B-type natriuretic peptides, myosin heavy chain types 2 and 3, uncoupling proteins 2 and 3, and the angiogenetic tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 12A. The genes encoding Kv channel-interacting protein 2, a regulator of electrical cardiac phenotype, and the insulin-regulated glucose transporter 4 were downregulated. The heart rate was lower in fetuses of hyperglycemic dams. At 13–14 gestational days, 98% of fetuses of hyperglycemic dams had holosystolic atrioventricular valve regurgitation and decreased outflow mean velocity, indicating diminished cardiac output. Maternal hyperglycemia may lead to accelerated fetal myocardial growth by cardiomyocyte hyperplasia. In fetuses of hyperglycemic dams, expression of key genes that control and regulate cardiomyocyte electrophysiological properties, contractility, and metabolism are altered and may lead to major functional and clinical implications on the fetal heart.
In VitroRelease Kinetics of Antituberculosis Drugs from Nanoparticles Assessed Using a Modified Dissolution Apparatus
Authors: Gao Yuan , Zuo Jieyu , Bou-Chacra Nadia , Pinto Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli , Clas Sophie-Dorothee , Walker Roderick B. , Löbenberg Raimar
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to assess thein vitrorelease kinetics of antituberculosis drug-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) using a “modified” cylindrical apparatus fitted with a regenerated cellulose membrane attached to a standard dissolution apparatus (modifiedcylinder method). The model drugs that were used were rifampicin (RIF) and moxifloxacin hydrochloride (MX). Gelatin and polybutyl cyanoacrylate (PBCA) NPs were evaluated as the nanocarriers, respectively. The dissolution and release kinetics of the drugs from loaded NPs were studied in different media using the modified cylinder method and dialysis bag technique was used as the control technique. The results showed that use of the modified cylinder method resulted in different release profiles associated with unique release mechanisms for the nanocarrier systems investigated. The modified cylinder method also permitted discrimination between forced and normalin vitrorelease of the model drugs from gelatin NPs in the presence or absence of enzymatic degradation. The use of dialysis bag technique resulted in an inability to differentiate between the mechanisms of drug release from the NPs in these cases. This approach offers an effective tool to investigatein vitrorelease of RIF and MX from NPs, which further indicate that this technique can be used for performance testing of nanosized carrier systems.
TraumaTutor: Perceptions of a Smartphone Application as a Learning Resource for Trauma Management
Authors: Wigley James , Shantikumar Saran
Published: July 2013

Aim. We investigated perceptions of a new smartphone application (app) as a learning resource. Methods. We developed TraumaTutor, an iPhone app consisting of 150 questions and explanatory answers on trauma management. This was used by 20 hospital staff that either had a special interest in managing trauma or who were studying for relevant exams, such as ATLS. A subsequent questionnaire assessed users’ experience of smartphone applications and their perceptions of TraumaTutor. Results. Of those surveyed, 85% had a device capable of running app software, and 94% of them had used apps for medical education. Specific to TraumaTutor, 85% agreed that it was pitched at the right level, 95% felt that the explanations improved understanding of trauma management, and 100% found the app easy to use. In fact, on open questioning, the clear user interface and the quality of the educational material were seen as the major advantages of TraumaTutor, and 85% agreed that the app would be a useful learning resource. Conclusions. Smartphone applications are considered a valuable educational adjunct and are commonly used by our target audience. TraumaTutor shows overwhelming promise as a learning supplement due to its immediacy, accessibility, and relevance to those preparing for courses and managing trauma.
LRP-1: A Checkpoint for the Extracellular Matrix Proteolysis
Authors: Etique Nicolas , Verzeaux Laurie , Dedieu Stéphane , Emonard Hervé
Published: July 2013

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-(LRP-1) is a large endocytic receptor that binds more than 35 ligands and exhibits signaling properties. Proteinases capable of degrading extracellular matrix (ECM), called matrix proteinases in this paper, are mainly serine proteinases: the activators of plasminogen into plasmin, tissue-type (tPA) and urokinase-type (uPA) plasminogen activators, and the members of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family. LRP-1 is responsible for clearing matrix proteinases, complexed or not with inhibitors. This paper attempts to summarize some aspects on the cellular and molecular bases of endocytic and signaling functions of LRP-1 that modulate extra- and pericellular levels of matrix proteinases.
LOX-1, OxLDL, and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Pirillo Angela , Norata Giuseppe Danilo , Catapano Alberico Luigi
Published: July 2013

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) contributes to the atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression by several mechanisms, including the induction of endothelial cell activation and dysfunction, macrophage foam cell formation, and smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation. Vascular wall cells express on their surface several scavenger receptors that mediate the cellular effects of OxLDL. The lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) is the main OxLDL receptor of endothelial cells, and it is expressed also in macrophages and smooth muscle cells. LOX-1 is almost undetectable under physiological conditions, but it is upregulated following the exposure to several proinflammatory and proatherogenic stimuli and can be detected in animal and human atherosclerotic lesions. The key contribution of LOX-1 to the atherogenic process has been confirmed in animal models; LOX-1 knockout mice exhibit reduced intima thickness and inflammation and increased expression of protective factors; on the contrary, LOX-1 overexpressing mice present an accelerated atherosclerotic lesion formation which is associated with increased inflammation. In humans, LOX-1 gene polymorphisms were associated with increased susceptibility to myocardial infarction. Inhibition of the LOX-1 receptor with chemicals or antisense nucleotides is currently being investigated and represents an emerging approach for controlling OxLDL-LOX-1 mediated proatherogenic effects.
Spatial-Temporal Analysis of the Economic and Environmental Coordination Development Degree in Liaoning Province
Authors: Wang Hui , Liu Fan , Yuan Ying , Wang Liang
Published: July 2013

This study selects 20 indices of economic and environmental conditions over 15 years (1996–2010) for 14 cities in Liaoning province, China. We calculate the economic score and environmental score of each city by processing 4200 data points through SPSS 16.0 and establish synthesis functions between the economy and the environment. For the time dimension, we study the temporal evolution of the economic and environmental coordination development degree . Based on Exploratory Spatial Data Analysis (ESDA) techniques and using GeoDa, we calculate Moran's index of local spatial autocorrelation and explore the spatial distribution character of in Liaoning province through a LISA cluster map. As we found in the temporal dimension, the results show that of the 14 cities has been rising for 15 years and that increases year by year, which indicates that the economic and environmental coordination development condition has been improving from disorder to highly coordinated. A smaller gap between economic strength and environmental carrying capacity in Liaoning province exists, which means that economic development and environmental protection remain synchronized. In the spatial dimension, the highly coordinated cities have changed from a scattering to a concentration in the middle-south region of Liaoning province. Poorly coordinated cities are scattered in the northwestern region of Liaoning province.
A Case of Contagious Ecthyma (Orf Virus) in a Nonmanipulated Laboratory Dorset Sheep (Ovis aries)
Authors: Kinley Gwynne E. , Schmitt Connie W. , Stephens-Devalle Julie
Published: July 2013

An approximately 5-month-old laboratory wether, originating from a local vendor with a closed flock and maintained on a preventative medicine plan, presented with a continuum of lesions from hemorrhagic papules, vesicles, and pustules, to multifocal necrotic scabs at the commissure of the lips, medial canthus of the left eye, and distal prepuce. A presumptive diagnosis of Orf virus (ORFV) was made and the sheep was euthanized. A full necropsy was performed, and histopathological evaluation of affected tissues revealed multifocal-to-coalescing necrotizing and proliferative cheilitis and dermatitis with eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies. Electron microscopy findings revealed degenerate keratinocytes containing numerous typical 200–300 nm wide cytoplasmic parapoxvirus virions, confirming the diagnosis of ORFV. We believe that this animal developed a clinical case of ORFV either due to an adverse reaction to an ORFV vaccine, or this animal had a case of preexisting ORFV which manifested after arrival at our facility.
Characterization of Bone-Marrow-Derived Stem Cells in Osteoporotic Models of the Rat
Authors: Goergen Julia , Wenisch Sabine , Raabe Oksana , Moritz Andreas , Schlewitz Gudrun , Schnettler Reinhard , Hempel Ute , Heiss Christian , Arnhold Stefan
Published: July 2013

Osteoporotic effects observed after osteoporosis induction in the rat by combining ovariectomy (OVX) either with a defined calcium-deficient diet (OVX + Diet) or by administration of a glucocorticoid (dexamethasone) (OVX + Steroid) mimic the skeletal effects observed in humans affected by osteoporosis. In the present investigation rat MSCs have been characterized in vitro after osteoporosis has been induced for twelve weeks in rats by means of OVX + Diet (n=5) and OVX + Steroid (n=5). Sham-operated animals (n=5) served as controls. MSCs were harvested from humerus and iliac crest and were cultured in standard medium and in osteogenic differentiation medium for studying the proliferation, migration, and differentiation capacity of the cells. Expression of CD90, CD105, runx2, osteocalcin (OC), and bone sialoprotein (BSP) was performed by using qrtPCR. Calcium deposits developed in the course of osteogenic differentiation were measured by using Pentra 400 Axon Lab. Taken together, the present results showed that osteoporosis induction leads to MSC in a state of senescence: proliferation and migration rates of the cells were diminished pointing to self-renewal deficiency and impaired motility of rat MSC in contrast to controls. However, the osteogenic differentiation capacity was increased after osteoporosis induction with OVX + Diet and OVX + Steroid.
Systemic Immune Activation Leads to Neuroinflammation and Sickness Behavior in Mice
Authors: Biesmans Steven , Meert Theo F. , Bouwknecht Jan A. , Acton Paul D. , Davoodi Nima , De Haes Patrick , Kuijlaars Jacobine , Langlois Xavier , Matthews Liam J. R. , Ver Donck Luc , Hellings Niels , Nuydens Rony
Published: July 2013

Substantial evidence indicates an association between clinical depression and altered immune function. Systemic administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is commonly used to study inflammation-associated behavioral changes in rodents. In these experiments, we tested the hypothesis that peripheral immune activation leads to neuroinflammation and depressive-like behavior in mice. We report that systemic administration of LPS induced astrocyte activation in transgenic GFAP-luc mice and increased immunoreactivity against the microglial marker ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 in the dentate gyrus of wild-type mice. Furthermore, LPS treatment caused a strong but transient increase in cytokine levels in the serum and brain. In addition to studying LPS-induced neuroinflammation, we tested whether sickness could be separated from depressive-like behavior by evaluating LPS-treated mice in a panel of behavioral paradigms. Our behavioral data indicate that systemic LPS administration caused sickness and mild depressive-like behavior. However, due to the overlapping time course and mild effects on depression-related behavior per se, it was not possible to separate sickness from depressive-like behavior in the present rodent model.
Genomic Structure and Variation of Nuclear Factor (Erythroid-Derived 2)-Like 2
Authors: Cho Hye-Youn
Published: July 2013

High-density mapping of mammalian genomes has enabled a wide range of genetic investigations including the mapping of polygenic traits, determination of quantitative trait loci, and phylogenetic comparison. Genome sequencing analysis of inbred mouse strains has identified high-density single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for investigation of complex traits, which has become a useful tool for biomedical research of human disease to alleviate ethical and practical problems of experimentation in humans. Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) encodes a key host defense transcription factor. This review describes genetic characteristics of humanNRF2and its homologs in other vertebrate species.NRF2is evolutionally conserved and shares sequence homology among species. Compilation of publically available SNPs and other genetic mutations shows that humanNRF2is highly polymorphic with a mutagenic frequency of 1 per every 72 bp. Functional at-risk alleles and haplotypes have been demonstrated in various human disorders. In addition, other pathogenic alterations including somatic mutations and misregulated epigenetic processes inNRF2have led to oncogenic cell survival. Comprehensive information from the current review addresses association ofNRF2variation and disease phenotypes and supports the new insights into therapeutic strategies.
An Acidic Thermostable Recombinant Aspergillus nidulans Endoglucanase Is Active towards Distinct Agriculture Residues
Authors: Tavares Eveline Queiroz de Pinho , Rubini Marciano Regis , Mello-de-Sousa Thiago Machado , Duarte Gilvan Caetano , de Faria Fabrícia Paula , Ferreira Filho Edivaldo Ximenes , Kyaw Cynthia Maria , Silva-Pereira Ildinete , Poças-Fonseca Marcio Jose
Published: July 2013

Aspergillus nidulans is poorly exploited as a source of enzymes for lignocellulosic residues degradation for biotechnological purposes. This work describes the A. nidulans Endoglucanase A heterologous expression in Pichia pastoris, the purification and biochemical characterization of the recombinant enzyme. Active recombinant endoglucanase A (rEG A) was efficiently secreted as a 35 kDa protein which was purified through a two-step chromatography procedure. The highest enzyme activity was detected at 50°C/pH 4. rEG A retained 100% of activity when incubated at 45 and 55°C for 72 h. Purified rEG A kinetic parameters towards CMC were determined as Km=27.5±4.33 mg/mL, Vmax=1.185±0.11 mmol/min, and 55.8 IU (international units)/mg specific activity. Recombinant P. pastoris supernatant presented hydrolytic activity towards lignocellulosic residues such as banana stalk, sugarcane bagasse, soybean residues, and corn straw. These data indicate that rEG A is suitable for plant biomass conversion into products of commercial importance, such as second-generation fuel ethanol.
Entry, Retention, and Virological Suppression in an HIV Cohort Study in India: Description of the Cascade of Care and Implications for Reducing HIV-Related Mortality in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Alvarez-Uria Gerardo , Pakam Raghavakalyan , Midde Manoranjan , Naik Praveen Kumar
Published: July 2013

HIV treatment, care, and support programmes in low- and middle-income countries have traditionally focused more on patients remaining in care after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) than on earlier stages of care. This study describes the cumulative retention from HIV diagnosis to the achievement of virological suppression after ART initiation in an HIV cohort study in India. Of all patients diagnosed with HIV, 70% entered into care within three months. 65% of patients ineligible for ART at the first assessment were retained in pre-ART care. 67% of those eligible for ART initiated treatment within three months. 30% of patients who initiated ART died or were lost to followup, and 82% achieved virological suppression in the last viral load determination. Most attrition occurred the in pre-ART stages of care, and it was estimated that only 31% of patients diagnosed with HIV engaged in care and achieved virological suppression after ART initiation. The total mortality attributable to pre-ART attrition was considerably higher than the mortality for not achieving virological suppression. This study indicates that early entry into pre-ART care along with timely initiation of ART is more likely to reduce HIV-related mortality compared to achieving virological suppression.
Predicting School Bullying Victimization: Focusing on Individual and School Environmental/Security Factors
Authors: Jeong Seokjin , Kwak Dae-Hoon , Moon Byongook , San Miguel Claudia
Published: July 2013

Bullying behavior continues to be a salient social and health-related issue of importance to educators, criminal justice practitioners, and academicians across the country. While discourse on school bullying is abundant, previous studies are limited in explaining the predictive effect of factors such as individual/demographic variables, school environmental variables, and school antibullying preventive measures. Using a nationally representative sample of 12,987 private and public school students in the United States, the current study examines school safety measures and students’ perceptions about school environments (or climate), especially school rules and punishment. Findings reveal that the variables of security guards, fairness and awareness of school rules, gangs and guns at school, students misbehaving, and teachers’ punishment of students were statistically significant predictors of bullying victimization. Implications of these findings for school anti-bullying programs as well as directions for future research are discussed.
A New Case of DRESS Syndrome Induced by Sulfasalazine and Triggered by Amoxicillin
Authors: Girelli Francesco , Bernardi Simone , Gardelli Lucia , Bassi Bruna , Parente Gianluca , Dubini Alessandra , Serra Luigi , Nizzoli Maurizio
Published: July 2013

Drug Rash Eosinophilia Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a systemic hypersensitivity reaction characterized by exfoliative dermatitis and maculopapular rash, lymphadenopathy, fever, eosinophilia, leukocytosis, and involvement of internal organs as liver, lung, heart, and kidney; the disorder starts within 2–6 weeks after taking a drug with an incidence that ranges from 1/1000 to 1/10000 exposures. Fatal cases are reported. The exact pathogenesis of DRESS syndrome is not completely understood, while it is reported that amoxicillin could trigger it in patients who are taking allopurinol, sulfasalazine, NSAIDs, carbamazepine, strontium ranelate, lisinopril, lansoprazole, and minocycline. Amoxicillin could act directly, inducing the reactivation of a viral infection (HHV 6 and EBV) with symptoms similar to DRESS syndrome or by reducing the patients’ ability to detoxify the body from substances chronically taken. We describe a case of a patient admitted to our hospital for a DRESS syndrome flared after amoxicilline intake during treatment with sulfasalazine; this combination can activate severe reactions often with an insidious onset that can mimic an infectious disease.
Surrogate-Assisted Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithms for Structural Shape and Sizing Optimisation
Authors: Kunakote Tawatchai , Bureerat Sujin
Published: July 2013

The work in this paper proposes the hybridisation of the well-established strength Pareto evolutionary algorithm (SPEA2) and some commonly used surrogate models. The surrogate models are introduced to an evolutionary optimisation process to enhance the performance of the optimiser when solving design problems with expensive function evaluation. Several surrogate models including quadratic function, radial basis function, neural network, and Kriging models are employed in combination with SPEA2 using real codes. The various hybrid optimisation strategies are implemented on eight simultaneous shape and sizing design problems of structures taking into account of structural weight, lateral bucking, natural frequency, and stress. Structural analysis is carried out by using a finite element procedure. The optimum results obtained are compared and discussed. The performance assessment is based on the hypervolume indicator. The performance of the surrogate models for estimating design constraints is investigated. It has been found that, by using a quadratic function surrogate model, the optimiser searching performance is greatly improved.
The Role of Insula-Associated Brain Network in Touch
Authors: Wei Pengxu , Bao Ruixue
Published: July 2013

The insula is believed to be associated with touch-evoked effects. In this work, functional MRI was applied to investigate the network model of insula function when 20 normal subjects received tactile stimulation over segregated areas. Data analysis was performed with SPM8 and Conn toolbox. Activations in the contralateral posterior insula were consistently revealed for all stimulation areas, with the overlap located in area Ig2. The area Ig2 was then used as the seed to estimate the insula-associated network. The right insula, left superior parietal lobule, left superior temporal gyrus, and left inferior parietal cortex showed significant functional connectivity with the seed region for all stimulation conditions. Connectivity maps of most stimulation conditions were mainly distributed in the bilateral insula, inferior parietal cortex, and secondary somatosensory cortex. Post hoc ROI-to-ROI analysis and graph theoretical analysis showed that there were higher correlations between the left insula and the right insula, left inferior parietal cortex and right OP1 for all networks and that the global efficiency was more sensitive than the local efficiency to detect differences between notes in a network. These results suggest that the posterior insula serves as a hub to functionally connect other regions in the detected network and may integrate information from these regions.
Study on Morphology, Rheology, and Mechanical Properties of Poly(trimethylene terephthalate)/CaCO3Nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Chunzheng , Run Mingtao
Published: July 2013

For preparing good performance polymer materials, poly(trimethylene terephthalate)/CaCO3nanocomposites were prepared and their morphology, rheological behavior, mechanical properties, heat distortion, and crystallization behaviors were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, capillary rheometer, universal testing machine, impact tester, heat distortion temperature tester, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), respectively. The results suggest that the nano-CaCO3particles are dispersed uniformly in the polymer matrix. PTT/CaCO3nanocomposites are pseudoplastic fluids, and the CaCO3nanoparticles serve as a lubricant by decreasing the apparent viscosity of the nanocomposites; however, both the apparent viscosity and the pseudoplasticity of the nanocomposites increase with increasing CaCO3contents. The nanoparticles also have nucleation effects on PTT’s crystallization by increasing the crystallization rate and temperature; however, excessive nanoparticles will depress this effect because of the agglomeration of the particles. The mechanical properties suggest that the CaCO3nanoparticles have good effects on improving the impact strength and tensile strength with proper content of fillers. The nanofillers can greatly increase the heat distortion property of the nanocomposites.
The Mechanism of DAB2IP in Chemoresistance of Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Wu Kaijie , Xie Daxing , Zou Yonglong , Zhang Tingting , Pong Rey-Chen , Xiao Guanghua , Fazli Ladan , Gleave Martin , He Dalin , Boothman David A. , Hsieh Jer-Tsong
Published: July 2013

Purpose: The docetaxel-based chemotherapy is the standard of care for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), inevitably, patients develop resistance and decease. Until now, the mechanism and predictive marker for chemoresistance are poorly understood.

Experimental Design: Immortalized normal prostate and cancer cell lines stably manipulated with different DAB2IP expression levels were used and treated with chemotherapeutic drugs commonly used in prostate cancer therapy. Cell proliferation was measured using MTT assay; Western blot, quantitative PCR, and luciferase reporter assays were used to analyze Clusterin gene regulation by DAB2IP. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted for evaluating DAB2IP, Clusterin and Egr-1 expression in human prostate cancer tissue.

Results: DAB2IP Knockdown (KD) cells exhibited resistance to several chemotherapeutic drugs, whereas increased DAB2IP in C4-2 cells restored the drug sensitivity. Parallel, DAB2IP KD cells exhibited higher expression of Clusterin, an antiapoptotic factor, whereas elevated DAB2IP in C4-2 cells decreased Clusterin expression. Functionally, knocking down Clusterin by short-hairpin RNA or antisense oligonucleotide OGX-011 decreased drug resistance, whereas overexpressing Clusterin in C4-2 D2 enhanced drug resistance. Mechanistically, DAB2IP blocked the cross-talk between Wnt/β-catenin and IGF-I signaling, leading to the suppression of Egr-1 that is responsible for Clusterin expression. A similar result was observed in the prostate of DAB2IP knockout animals. In addition, we observed a significantly inverse correlation between DAB2IP and Egr-1 or Clusterin expression from clinical tissue microarray.

Conclusions: This study unveils a new regulation of the Egr-1/Clusterin signaling network by DAB2IP. Loss of DAB2IP expression in CRPC cells signifies their chemoresistance. Clusterin is a key target for developing more effective CRPC therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 19(17); 4740–9. ©2013 AACR.
Professional Kinesiology Practice for Chronic Low Back Pain: Single-Blind, Randomised Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Eardley Susan , Brien Sarah , Little Paul , Prescott Philip , Lewith George
Published: July 2013

Background: Chronic low back pain is a highly prevalent condition with no definitive treatment. Professional Kinesiology Practice (PKP) is a little known complementary medicine technique using non-standard muscle testing; no previous effectiveness studies have been performed. Methods: This is an exploratory, pragmatic single-blind, 3-arm randomised sham-controlled pilot study with waiting list control (WLC) in private practice UK (2007-2009). 70 participants scoring ≥4 on the Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) were randomised to real or sham PKP receiving 1 treatment weekly for 5 weeks or a WLC. WLC's were re-randomised to real or sham after 6 weeks. The main outcome was a change in RMDQ from baseline to end of 5 weeks of real or sham PKP. Results: With an effect size of 0.7 real treatment was significantly different to sham (mean difference RMDQ score = -2.9, p = 0.04, 95% CI -5.8 to -0.1). Compared to WLC, real and sham groups had significant RMDQ improvements (real -9.0, p < 0.01, 95% CI -12.1 to -5.8; effect size 2.1; sham -6.1, p < 0.01, 95% CI -9.1 to -3.1; effect size 1.4). Practitioner empathy (CARE) and patient enablement (PEI) did not predict outcome; holistic health beliefs (CAMBI) did, though. The sham treatment appeared credible; patients did not guess treatment allocation. 3 patients reported minor adverse reactions. Conclusions: Real treatment was significantly different from sham demonstrating a moderate specific effect of PKP; both were better than WLC indicating a substantial non-specific and contextual treatment effect. A larger definitive study would be appropriate with nested qualitative work to help understand the mechanisms involved in PKP.
A Rare Case of Congenital Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis Combined with Medullary Sponge Kidney
Authors: Zhang ZhiQun , Liu YaLi , Dai MingJuan , Huang XianMei
Published: July 2013

Distal renal tubular acidosis combined with medullary sponge kidney (MSK) is not uncommon in adults, but is rare in infants. We report a 13-month-old boy with MSK who had features of distal renal tubular acidosis (nephrocalcinosis, hypercalciuria, hypocitraturia) and failed to thrive. Renal ultrasound revealed bilateral increased medullary echogenicity and nephrocalcinosis. Bilateral medullary nephrocalcinosis in the ultrasound was the first sign that alerted our pediatrician to the presence of MSK in infants. Earlier treatment may increase efficacy.
Efficacy of a Novel Herbal Multicomponent Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy Approach in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Li Songhua , Kuchta Kenny , Tamaru Naomi , Lin Yu , Iwasaki Sumio , Wang Ruwei , Kobayashi Yuta , Rauwald Hans Wilhelm , Kamei Tsutomu
Published: July 2013

Background: In Western medicine, the application of topical steroids and oral antihistaminic or antiallergic agents is the main treatment option for atopic dermatitis (AD). However, instead of these therapies the disease may remain intractable in some patients, resulting in long-term exposure to these chemical agents and consequently leading to concerns about possible adverse drug reactions. Methods: In the present open-label clinical study, the efficacy and safety of a novel multi component TCM therapy approach for AD was investigated. Therefore, 94 patients received the formula I (10 crude drugs) orally, combined with both the lotion II (7 crude drugs), and the ointment III (8 crude drugs). Each crude drug was extracted with boiling water in a defined manner, concentrated, and reworked into the preparations. Standardized scores were used for evaluating the severities of AD (clinical severity 0-4) and pruritus (pruritus score 0-4). Results: Both scores had significantly improved at the end of a 12 month treatment (P<0.001). Eosinophil ratio and serum IgE levels, which were elevated in AD patients, were significantly reduced at the end of therapy (P<0.01). In 32 of 94 treated patients the condition markedly improved, in 59 cases AD improved, and in 3 patients there was a slight improvement with no case of ineffective treatment. There was no hint of renal or hepatic toxicity or any other adverse effects. Conclusion: The present study confirms that the 3 newly developed herbal TCM combination preparations are clinically efficacious on AD, accomplishing a significant reduction in both clinical and pruritus scores as well as in eosinophil ratios and serum IgE levels.
Relationship between Adiponectin and Leptin, and Blood Lipids in Hyperlipidemia Patients Treated with Red Yeast Rice
Authors: Lee Chien-Ying , Jan Ming-Shiou , Yu Min-Chien , Lin Chun-Che , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Shih Hung-Che
Published: July 2013

Background: This study aimed to investigate the possible relationships between adiponectin and leptin, blood lipids such as total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) as well as other clinical biomarkers in hyperlipidemia patients treated with red yeast rice. Methods: 30 patients with primary hyperlipidemia were recruited, treated with red rice yeast capsules 600 mg twice a day for 8 weeks, and followed up for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the mean difference in LDL-C from baseline to week 8, while the secondary endpoints were the mean percentage changes from baseline of total cholesterol, TG, HDL-C, adiponectin, and leptin. Results: At week 8, the decrease in LDL-C and total cholesterol was -38.11 ± 30.90 mg/dl (p < 0.0001) and -44.54 ± 27.46 mg/dl (p < 0.0001), respectively, and the increase in adiponectin was 35.83 ± 67.85 μg/ml (p = 0.017) as compared to baseline. Adiponectin also correlated positively with HDL-C (r2 = 0.39; p = 0.001). Serum leptin correlated negatively with TG (r2 = 0.19; p = 0.035), and there was a trend of correlation between leptin and HDL-C, but this was not statistically significant (r2 = 0.16; p = 0.052). Conclusion: Red yeast rice can significantly increase adiponectin and can significantly lower LDL-C and total cholesterol levels. Adiponectin correlates positively with HDL-C while serum leptin correlates negatively with TG. Red yeast rice has a potentially protective effect in obesity-related and cardiovascular diseases.
The Treatment Experience Questionnaire: Development and Validation of a Questionnaire Assessing the Individual's Emotional, Perceptual, and Cognitive Reactions to Alternative, Physical, and Dental Treatments
Authors: Blasche Gerhard , Marktl Wolfgang , Eisenwort Brigitte , Skolka Astrid , Pichlhöfer Otto
Published: July 2013

Background: The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire designed to assess the patient's affective, cognitive, and perceptual state during treatment administration. Methods: 362 individuals (214 females, 148 males, mean age 54.6 years) with predominantly musculoskeletal or dental problems participated in the study. Patients responded to the questionnaire immediately following a treatment. The questionnaire included items of 9 proposed scales devised to assess mood, psychological tension, sleepiness, mental absorption, treatment appraisal, perceived cooperation during treatment administration, perceived somatosensory intensity of treatment as well as negative and positive bodily sensations during treatment. Treatments were administered in 2 spa centers, a clinic for physical medicine and rehabilitation and a clinic for dentistry. Treatments investigated were among others dental treatment, massage, packs, baths, relaxation training, exercise, and acupuncture. Results: The proposed scales were confirmed. Scales had adequate to good reliability and validity. All scales significantly distinguished between treatments. Conclusion: The devised questionnaire has adequate properties to assess patients' experiences during treatment administration.
Klinische Aspekte der Verwendung von Phytosterolen in der Ernährung des Menschen
Authors: Stelmach-Mardas Marta , Przysławski Juliusz
Published: July 2013

In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird die effektive Verabreichung von pflanzlichen Sterolen in der Ernährung des Menschen behandelt. Hauptsächlich werden ihr positiver Einfluss auf die Senkung der Cholesterinkonzentration in der LDL-Fraktion und die zu beobachtenden Änderungen in der Serumkonzentration der Fraktion hervorgehoben, die mit der Absorption und Cholesterinsynthese verbunden sind. Es scheint, dass eine Verwendung von Phytosterolen in der Ernährung eine durchaus positive Rolle in der Dyslipidämieprophylaxe spielen kann.
In vitro Self-Assembly of Human Pericyte-Supported Endothelial Microvessels in Three-Dimensional Coculture: A Simple Model for Interrogating Endothelial-Pericyte Interactions
Authors: Waters J.P. , Kluger M.S. , Graham M. , Chang W.G. , Bradley J.R. , Pober J.S.
Published: July 2013

We describe a method for coculture of macro- or microvascular human endothelial cells (ECs) and pericytes (PCs) within a 3-dimensional (3-D) protein matrix resulting in lumenized EC cords invested by PCs. To prevent apoptotic cell death of ECs in 3-D culture, human umbilical vein or dermal microvascular ECs were transduced to express the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2. To prevent PC-mediated gel contraction, the collagen-fibronectin gel was polymerized within a polyglycolic acid nonwoven matrix. Over the first 24-48 h, EC-only gels spontaneously formed cords that developed lumens via vacuolization; such vascular networks were maintained for up to 7 days. In EC-PC cocultures, PCs were recruited to the EC networks. PC investment of EC cords both limited the lumen diameter and increased the degree of vascular network arborization. Peg and socket junctions formed between ECs and PCs in this system, but dye transfer, indicative of gap junction formation, was not observed. This simple system can be used to analyze bidirectional signals between ECs and PCs in a 3-D geometry.
Cognitive Change in Heart Failure
Authors: Hajduk Alexandra M. , Kiefe Catarina I. , Person Sharina D. , Gore Joel G. , Saczynski Jane S.
Published: July 2013

Background—

Cognitive impairment, highly prevalent in patients with heart failure (HF), increases risk for hospitalization and mortality. However, the course of cognitive change in HF is not well characterized. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the available evidence longitudinal changes in cognitive function in patients with HF.

Methods and Results—

A literature search of several electronic databases was performed. Studies published from January 1, 1980, to September 30, 2012, that used validated measures to diagnose HF and assess cognitive function ≥2× in adults with HF were eligible for inclusion. Change in cognitive function was examined in the context of HF treatments applied (eg, medication initiation, left ventricular assist device implantation), length of follow-up, and comparison group. Fifteen studies met eligibility criteria. Significant decline in cognitive function was noted among patients with HF followed up for >1 year. Improvements in cognition were observed among patients with HF undergoing interventions to improve cardiac function (eg, heart transplantation) and among patients examined over short time periods (<1 year). Studies comparing patients' cognition over time with their own baseline tended to report improvements, whereas studies using a comparison group without HF tended to report declines or stability in cognition over time among patients with HF.

Conclusions—

Patients with HF are at increased risk for cognitive decline, but this risk seems to be modifiable with cardiac treatment. Further research is needed to identify the mechanisms that cause cognitive changes in HF.
Frequency, Predictors, and Consequences of Crossing Over to Revascularization Within 12 Months of Randomization to Optimal Medical Therapy in the Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation (COURAGE) Trial
Authors: Spertus John A. , Maron David J. , Cohen David J. , Kolm Paul , Hartigan Pam , Weintraub William S. , Berman Daniel S. , Teo Koon K. , Shaw Leslee J. , Sedlis Steven P. , Knudtson Merril , Aslan Mihaela , Dada Marcin , Boden William E. , Mancini G. B. John
Published: July 2013

Background—

In the Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation (COURAGE) trial, some patients with stable ischemic heart disease randomized to optimal medical therapy (OMT) crossed over to early revascularization. The predictors and outcomes of patients who crossed over from OMT to revascularization are unknown.

Methods and Results—

We compared characteristics of OMT patients who did and did not undergo revascularization within 12 months and created a Cox regression model to identify predictors of early revascularization. Patients’ health status was measured with the Seattle Angina Questionnaire. To quantify the potential consequences of initiating OMT without percutaneous coronary intervention, we compared the outcomes of crossover patients with a matched cohort randomized to immediate percutaneous coronary intervention. Among 1148 patients randomized to OMT, 185 (16.1%) underwent early revascularization. Patient characteristics independently associated with early revascularization were worse baseline Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores and healthcare system. Among 156 OMT patients undergoing early revascularization matched to 156 patients randomized to percutaneous coronary intervention, rates of mortality (hazard ratio=0.51 [0.13–2.1]) and nonfatal myocardial infarction (hazard ratio=1.9 [0.75–4.6]) were similar, as were 1-year Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores. OMT patients, however, experienced worse health status over the initial year of treatment and more unstable angina admissions (hazard ratio=2.8 [1.1–7.5]).

Conclusion—

Among COURAGE patients assigned to OMT alone, patients’ angina, dissatisfaction with their current treatment, and, to a lesser extent, their health system were associated with early revascularization. Because early crossover was not associated with an increase in irreversible ischemic events or impaired 12-month health status, these findings support an initial trial of OMT in stable ischemic heart disease with close follow-up of the most symptomatic patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00007657.
Misregulation of SDF1-CXCR4 Signaling Impairs Early Cardiac Neural Crest Cell Migration Leading to Conotruncal Defects
Authors: Escot Sophie , Blavet Cédrine , Härtle Sonja , Duband Jean-Loup , Fournier-Thibault Claire
Published: July 2013

Rationale:

Cardiac neural crest cells (NCs) contribute to heart morphogenesis by giving rise to a variety of cell types from mesenchyme of the outflow tract, ventricular septum, and semilunar valves to neurons of the cardiac ganglia and smooth muscles of the great arteries. Failure in cardiac NC development results in outflow and ventricular septation defects commonly observed in congenital heart diseases. Cardiac NCs derive from the vagal neural tube, which also gives rise to enteric NCs that colonize the gut; however, so far, molecular mechanisms segregating these 2 populations and driving cardiac NC migration toward the heart have remained elusive.

Objective:

Stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF1) is a chemokine that mediates oriented migration of multiple embryonic cells and mice deficient for
Sdf1
or its receptors,
Cxcr4
and
Cxcr7
, exhibit ventricular septum defects, raising the possibility that SDF1 might selectively drive cardiac NC migration toward the heart via a chemotactic mechanism.

Methods and Results
:

We show in the chick embryo that
Sdf1
expression is tightly coordinated with the progression of cardiac NCs expressing
Cxcr4
.
Cxcr4
loss-of-function causes delayed migration and enhanced death of cardiac NCs, whereas
Sdf1
misexpression results in their diversion from their normal pathway, indicating that SDF1 acts as a chemoattractant for cardiac NCs. These alterations of SDF1 signaling result in severe cardiovascular defects.

Conclusions:

These data identify
Sdf1
and its receptor
Cxcr4
as candidate genes responsible for cardiac congenital pathologies in human.