bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing Haemorrhagic Transformation after Thrombolysis for Stroke: A Strategy Utilising Minocycline
Authors: Blacker David J. , Prentice David , Alvaro Anthony , Bates Timothy R. , Bynevelt Michael , Kelly Andrew , Kho Lay Kun , Kohler Edith , Hankey Graeme J. , Thompson Andrew , Major Taryn
Published: April 2013

Haemorrhagic transformation (HT) of recently ischaemic brain is a feared complication of thrombolytic therapy that may be caused or compounded by ischaemia-induced activation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The tetracycline antibiotic minocycline inhibits matrix MMPs and reduces macroscopic HT in rodents with stroke treated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). The West Australian Intravenous Minocycline and TPA Stroke Study (WAIMATSS) aims to determine the safety and efficacy of adding minocycline to tPA in acute ischaemic stroke. The WAIMATSS is a multicentre, prospective, and randomised pilot study of intravenous minocycline, 200 mg 12 hourly for 5 doses, compared with standard care, in patients with ischaemic stroke treated with intravenous tPA. The primary endpoint is HT diagnosed by brain CT and MRI. Secondary endpoints include clinical outcome measures. Some illustrative cases from the early recruitment phase of this study will be presented, and future perspectives will be discussed.
Herbal Therapies for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Chemistry, Biology, and Potential Application of Selected Plants and Compounds
Authors: Chang Cicero L. T. , Lin Yenshou , Bartolome Arlene P. , Chen Yi-Ching , Chiu Shao-Chih , Yang Wen-Chin
Published: April 2013

Diabetes mellitus has been recognized since antiquity. It currently affects as many as 285 million people worldwide and results in heavy personal and national economic burdens. Considerable progress has been made in orthodox antidiabetic drugs. However, new remedies are still in great demand because of the limited efficacy and undesirable side effects of current orthodox drugs. Nature is an extraordinary source of antidiabetic medicines. To date, more than 1200 flowering plants have been claimed to have antidiabetic properties. Among them, one-third have been scientifically studied and documented in around 460 publications. In this review, we select and discuss blood glucose-lowering medicinal herbs that have the ability to modulate one or more of the pathways that regulate insulin resistance,β-cell function, GLP-1 homeostasis, and glucose (re)absorption. Emphasis is placed on phytochemistry, anti-diabetic bioactivities, and likely mechanism(s). Recent progress in the understanding of the biological actions, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of compounds and extracts of plant origin in type 2 diabetes is summarized. This review provides a source of up-to-date information for further basic and clinical research into herbal therapy for type 2 diabetes. Emerging views on therapeutic strategies for type 2 diabetes are also discussed.
A Common Fixed Point Theorem for Two Hybrid Pairs of Mappings in -Metric Spaces
Authors: Rao K. P. R. , Rao K. R. K.
Published: April 2013

We introduce a condition (W.C.C) and prove a common fixed point theorem for two hybrid pairs of mappings in b-metric spaces.
SAR and Computer-Aided Drug Design Approaches in the Discovery of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Activators: A Perspective
Authors: Dixit Vaibhav A. , Bharatam Prasad V.
Published: April 2013

Activators of PPARγ, Troglitazone (TGZ), Rosiglitazone (RGZ), and Pioglitazone (PGZ) were introduced for treatment of Type 2 diabetes, but TGZ and RGZ have been withdrawn from the market along with other promising leads due cardiovascular side effects and hepatotoxicity. However, the continuously improving understanding of the structure/function of PPARγ and its interactions with potential ligands maintain the importance of PPARγ as an antidiabetic target. Extensive structure activity relationship (SAR) studies have thus been performed on a variety of structural scaffolds by various research groups. Computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) approaches have also played a vital role in the search and optimization of potential lead compounds. This paper focuses on these approaches adopted for the discovery of PPARγ ligands for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Key concepts employed during the discovery phase, classification based on agonistic character, applications of various QSAR, pharmacophore mapping, virtual screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics studies are highlighted. Molecular level analysis of the dynamic nature of ligand-receptor interaction is presented for the future design of ligands with better potency and safety profiles. Recently identified mechanism of inhibition of phosphorylation of PPARγ at SER273 by ligands is reviewed as a new strategy to identify novel drug candidates.
Reproductive Strategy ofLabeobarbus batesii(Boulenger, 1903) (Teleostei: Cyprinidae) in the Mbô Floodplain Rivers of Cameroon
Authors: Tiogué Claudine Tekounegning , Tomedi Minette Tabi Eyango , Tchoumboué Joseph
Published: April 2013

Aspects of the reproductive strategy of African carp,Labeobarbus batesii, were investigated from May 2008 to October 2009 in the Mbô Floodplain of Cameroon. Samples were collected monthly from artisanal fishermen. The total length and total body mass of each specimen were measured to the nearest mm and 0.01 g, respectively. Sex was determined by macroscopic examination of the gonads after dissection. The sex ratio was female skewed (overall sex ratio: 1 : 1.42). Females reach sexual maturity at a larger size (213 mm) than the males (203 mm). The mean gonadosomatic index ranges from0.32±0.17% to1.91±1.15%, whereas the meanKfactor ranges from0.90±1.09to1.10±0.13. These two parameters are negatively correlated. The reproduction cycle begins in mid-September and ends in July of the next year, and they are reproductively quiescent for the rest of the year.Labeobarbus batesiiis a group-synchronous spawner with pulses of synchronised reproduction spread over a long period. The mean absolute, potential, and relative fecundities are2898±2837oocytes,1016±963oocytes, and9071±7184oocytes/kg, respectively. The fecundity is higher and positively correlated with the gonad mass than with body size. Its reproductive biology suggests thatL. batesiiis suitable for pond culture.
On the Discrete-Time Modeling of a DC-to-DC Power Converter and Control Design with Discrete-Time Sliding Modes
Authors: Rivera Jorge , Chavira Florentino , Loukianov Alexander
Published: April 2013

This work presents a novel discrete-time modeling of a boost dc-to-dc power converter by means of the symplectic Euler method. Then, on the basis of this model, a discrete-time sliding mode regulator is designed in order to force the power converter to behave as a dc-to-ac power converter. Simulation and experimental results are carried on, where the great performance of the proposed methodology is verified.
Storage Insects on Yam Chips and Their Traditional Management in Northern Benin
Authors: Loko Y. L. , Dansi A. , Tamo M. , Bokonon-Ganta A. H. , Assogba P. , Dansi M. , Vodouhè R. , Akoegninou A. , Sanni A.
Published: April 2013

Twenty‐five villages of Northern Benin were surveyed to identify the constraints of yam chips production, assess the diversity of storage insects on yam chips, and document farmers′ perception of their impacts on the stocks and their traditional management practices. Damages due to storage insects (63.9% of responses) and insufficiency of insect‐resistant varieties (16.7% of responses) were the major constraints of yam chips production. Twelve insect pest species were identified among which Dinoderus porcellus Lesne (Coleoptera, Bostrichidae) was by far the most important and the most distributed (97.44% of the samples). Three predators (Teretrius nigrescens Lewis, Xylocoris flavipes Reuter, and Alloeocranum biannulipes Montrouzier & Signoret) and one parasitoid (Dinarmus basalis Rondani) all Coleoptera, Bostrichidae were also identified. The most important traditional practices used to control or prevent insect attack in yam chips were documented and the producers′ preference criteria for yam cultivars used to produce chips were identified and prioritized. To further promote the production of yam chips, diversification of insect‐resistant yam varieties, conception, and use of health‐protective natural insecticides and popularization of modern storage structures were proposed.
Determination of Zalcitabine in Medicaments by Differential Pulse Voltammetry
Authors: Leandro Katia Christina , Moreira Josino Costa , Farias Pércio Augusto Mardini
Published: April 2013

The zalcitabine (ddC) has been extensively used in the treatment of HIV patients due to its antiretroviral activity. The quality control of this active principle in medications is of outstanding importance to public health. The principal objective of the current study was the development of an alternative analytical methodology for the zalcitabine determination using a voltammetric process. The zalcitabine gives a reduction peak (at-1.22 V versus Ag/AgCl) at the hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE). The differential pulse voltammetric response is evaluated with respect to the scan rate (20 mV/s), pulse amplitude (50 mV), support electrolyte (Clark-Lubs buffer), pH (2.0), and other variables. The response is linear over the 10.0 to 28.0 mg/L (47 to 133 μM) concentration range, and the detection limit is 2.08 mg/L. The validation of this method was realized using a governmental Brazilian document (Inmetro, 2007) and the results are reported for medication drugs.
A Quick Process for Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles with the Aid of Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Ha Tran Thi , Canh Ta Dinh , Tuyen Nguyen Viet
Published: April 2013

Reaction between sodium hydroxide and zinc acetate leads to the formation of zinc hydroxide, Zn(OH)2. The as-prepared Zn(OH)2 was then decomposed by using conventional heating process or with the aid of microwave irradiation. The nanoproducts of both methods were ZnO nanostructures of different size and shape, but the microwave irradiation method shows many advantages in yield and reaction time. Some surfactants such as SDS, CTAB, or PVP were then used to cap the product for studying the influence on the morphology and properties of the nanostructures.
Immunophenotypic Analysis of B Lymphocytes in Patients with Common Variable Immunodeficiency: Identification of CD23 as a Useful Marker in the Definition of the Disease
Authors: Patuzzo Giuseppe , Mazzi Filippo , Vella Antonio , Ortolani Riccardo , Barbieri Alessandro , Tinazzi Elisa , Marchi Giacomo , Codella Orazio , Beri Ruggero , Puccetti Antonio , Lunardi Claudio
Published: April 2013

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by the failure of B lymphocytes differentiation leading to deficient immunoglobulins secretion. The identified genetic defects account only for a minority of cases. The importance of B cells immunophenotyping in the classification of CVID is known. This procedure can identify alterations on the cell surface molecules expression that could explain some immunological disorders characteristic of CVID. Moreover, some immunophenotypical aspects can correlate with clinical features of the disease. We used this procedure to analyze a cohort of 23 patients affected by CVID, in order to identify the novel alterations of B cells and to find the possible correlations with clinical features. Circulating B cells were studied by flow cytometry incubating whole blood with specific antibodies for B cell surface molecules including CD27, IgM, IgD, CD21, and CD23. We compared the population of “switched memory” IgD− CD27+ B lymphocytes with the population of “switched memory” IgM− IgD− CD23− CD27+ B cells. These last B cells were reduced in patients compared to healthy controls; moreover, IgM− IgD− CD23− CD27+ B cells were lower than IgD− CD27+ B cells in patients with CVID. The reduction of this subset of B lymphocytes correlates more tightly than IgD− CD27+ B cells with lymphadenopathy and airways infections. In conclusion, our findings may help in better identifying patients with CVID.
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Can Be Discontinued at Three Months after Implantation of Zotarolimus-Eluting Stent in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Wada Tadashi , Nakahama Makoto , Toda Hironobu , Watanabe Atsuyuki , Hashimoto Katsushi , Terasaka Ritsuko , Nakamura Kazufumi , Yamada Nobuyuki , Ito Hiroshi
Published: April 2013

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention increases the risk of bleeding. We studied the safety and clinical outcomes of switching from DAPT to aspirin monotherapy at 3 months after ZES implantation. We retrospectively evaluated 168 consecutive patients with coronary artery disease who had been implanted with a ZES from June 2009 through March 2010. After excluding 40 patients according to exclusion criteria such as myocardial infarction, 128 patients were divided into a 3-month DAPT group (67 patients, 88 lesions) and a 12-month conventional DAPT group (61 patients, 81 lesions). Coronary angiographic followup and clinical followup were conducted at more than 8 months and at 12 months after ZES implantation, respectively. Minor and major bleeding events, stent thrombosis (ST), and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (death, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, target lesion revascularization, and target vessel revascularization) were evaluated. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidences of ST and MACE between the two groups. The incidence of bleeding events was significantly lower in the 3-month group than in the 12-month group (1.5% versus 11.5%, ). DAPT can be safely discontinued at 3 months after ZES implantation, which reduces bleeding risk.
Electrochemical Method for Ag-PEG Nanoparticles Synthesis
Authors: Roldán M. Virginia , Pellegri Nora , de Sanctis Oscar
Published: April 2013

In this work we present an electrochemical method to successfully prepare silver nanoparticles using only polyethylene glycol as stabilizer and without any other reactive. Here we study the use of the polymeric stabilizer to allow the introduction of a potential tool to reinforce the control of the size and shape of the nanoparticles throughout the synthesis process. The evolution of the reactions was followed by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The electrode processes were characterized by cyclic voltammetric measurements and the final product was studied by Atomic Force Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and X-Ray Diffraction. The influences of the current density, polymer length, and concentration media were analyzed.
Isolation ofLodderomyces elongisporusfrom the Catheter Tip of a Fungemia Patient in the Middle East
Authors: Ahmad Suhail , Khan Zia U. , Johny Molly , Ashour Najat M. , Al-Tourah Wehad H. , Joseph Leena , Chandy Rachel
Published: April 2013

Lodderomyces elongisporusis phenotypically closely related toCandida parapsilosisand has recently been identified as an infrequent cause of bloodstream infections in patients from Asia and Mexico. We report here the isolation ofLodderomyces elongisporusfrom the catheter of a suspected case of fungemia. The identity of the isolate was confirmed by phenotypic characteristics and ribosomal DNA sequencing.
The Dilemma of Pneumatosis Intestinalis with Pneumoperitoneum: Nonoperative or Surgical Management—Analysis of a Case
Authors: Rossetto A. , Brizzolari M. , Scarpa E. , Terrosu G. , Bresadola V.
Published: April 2013

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is an uncommon condition and can be associated with a wide spectrum of diseases, ranging from life-threatening to innocuous conditions. We report the case of a 46-year-old women coming to our attention for an acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and increased inflammatory marks, with a CT showing pneumoperitoneum and pneumatosis intestinalis. The previous diagnosis was advanced neoplasia of unknown origin. Despite the surgical intervention, which excluded an ischemic colitis, the patient died in the early postoperative period. The postmortem diagnosis was carcinoma of thymus gland, and the presence of pneumatosis was put down to metastasis nodes in the pulmonary parenchima. This case demonstrates the wide spectrum of presentation of pneumatosis intestinalis, the importance of a careful radiologic evaluation beside the clinical history, since the identification of correct pathogenesis and treatment can be very difficult.
Ultraviolet Protection by Fabric Engineering
Authors: Singh Mukesh Kumar , Singh Annika
Published: April 2013

Background. The increasing emission of greenhouse gases has evoked the human being to save the ozone layer and minimize the risk of ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Various fabric structures have been explored to achieve desired ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) in various situations.Objective. In this study, the effect of various filament configurations like twisted, flat, intermingled, and textured in multifilament yarns on fabric in different combinations is assessed in order to engineer a fabric of better ultraviolet protection factor (UPF).Methods. In order to engineer a fabric having optimum UV protection with sufficient comfort level in multifilament woven fabrics, four different yarn configurations, intermingled, textured, twisted, and flat, were used to develop twelve different fabric samples. The most UV absorbing and most demanding fibre polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was considered in different filament configuration.Results. The combinations of intermingled warp with flat, intermingled, and textured weft provided excellent UVR protection comparatively at about 22.5 mg/cm2fabric areal density. The presence of twisted yarn reduced the UV protection due to enhanced openness in fabric structure.Conclusion. The appropriate combination of warp and weft threads of different configuration should be selected judiciously in order to extract maximum UV protection and wear comfort attributes in multifilament woven PET fabrics.
Novel One-Step Multiplex PCR-Based Method for HLA Typing and Preimplantational Genetic Diagnosis of -Thalassemia
Authors: Fernández Raquel M. , Peciña Ana , Lozano-Arana Maria Dolores , García-Lozano Juan Carlos , Borrego Salud , Antiñolo Guillermo
Published: April 2013

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) of single gene disorders, combined with HLA matching (PGD-HLA), has emerged as a tool for couples at risk of transmitting a genetic disease to select unaffected embryos of an HLA tissue type compatible with that of an existing affected child. Here, we present a novel one-step multiplex PCR to genotype a spectrum of STRs to simultaneously perform HLA typing and PGD for -thalassemia. This method is being routinely used for PGD-HLA cycles in our department, with a genotyping success rate of 100%. As an example, we present the first successful PGD-HLA typing in Spain, which resulted in the birth of a boy and subsequent successful HSC transplantation to his affected brother, who is doing well 4 years following transplantation. The advantage of our method is that it involves only a round of single PCR for multiple markers amplification (up to 10 markers within theHLAand 6 markers at the-globinloci). This strategy has allowed us to considerably reduce the optimization of the PCR method for each specific PGD-HLA family as well as the time to obtain molecular results in each cycle.
Electroacupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) Prevents Intestinal Barrier and Remote Organ Dysfunction following Gut Ischemia through Activating the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Hu Sen , Du Ming-Hua , Luo Hong-Min , Wang Huan , Lv Yi , Ma Li , Lin Zhi-Long , Shi Xian , Gaischek Ingrid , Wang Lu , Litscher Gerhard
Published: April 2013

This study investigated the protective effect and mechanism of electroacupuncture at ST36 points on the intestinal barrier dysfunction and remote organ injury after intestinal ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats. Rats were subjected to gut ischemia for 30 min, and then received electroacupuncture for 30 min with or without abdominal vagotomy or intraperitoneal administration of cholinergicα7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) inhibitor. Then we compared its effects with electroacupuncture at nonchannel points, vagal nerve stimulation, or intraperitoneal administration of cholinergic agonist. Cytokine levels in plasma and tissue of intestine, lung, and liver were assessed 60 min after reperfusion. Intestinal barrier injury was detected by histology, gut injury score, the permeability to 4 kDa FITC-dextran, and changes in tight junction protein ZO-1 using immunofluorescence and Western blot. Electroacupuncture significantly lowered the levels of tumor necrosis factor-αand interleukin-8 in plasma and organ tissues, decreased intestinal permeability to FITC-dextran, and prevented changes in ZO-1 protein expression and localization. However, abdominal vagotomy or intraperitoneal administration of cholinergicα7nAChR inhibitor reversed these effects of electroacupuncture. These findings suggest that electroacupuncture attenuates the systemic inflammatory response through protection of intestinal barrier integrity after intestinal ischemia injury in the presence of an intact vagus nerve.
The Evidence for Hypoperfusion as a Factor in Multiple Sclerosis Lesion Development
Authors: Juurlink Bernhard H. J.
Published: April 2013

The evidence that hypoxia is a precipitating factor in causing early MS lesions includes increased protein levels of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α; presence of the D-110 hypoxia-inducible protein; increased expression of hypoxia-inducible genes in lesions as well as in adjacent normal-appearing white matter (NAWM); loss of myelin-associated glycoprotein in myelin of early MS lesions; a 50% reduction of blood flow through NAWM with areas of lowest blood flow having the greatest probability of lesion development. Why MS-like lesions develop following hypoxemic insults in some individuals but not in others is likely dependent upon the presence of immune predisposing factors that are governed genetically. Hypoperfusion may be due to decreased arterial supply, restricted venous return, or a combination of these. There are clinical trials ongoing or planned to treat chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) through angioplasty. I suggest that it is important that clinical trials addressing vascular issues in MS should examine how the vascular intervention affects white matter perfusion and determine whether the extent of perfusion recovery and maintenance of this recovery is related to functional recovery and maintenance of functional recovery. Consideration should also be given to the possibility of arterial problems playing a role in hypoperfusion in some MS patients.
Active Transport and Health Outcomes: Findings from a Population Study in Jiangsu, China
Authors: Lu Shu-rong , Su Jian , Xiang Quan-yong , Zhang Feng-yun , Wu Ming
Published: April 2013

To investigate the prevalence of active transport (AT, defined as walking or bicycling for transport) and to explore the association between AT and health outcomes, we conducted a population-based cross-sectional study in Jiangsu, China, where walking and bicycling are still the main modes of transport. In this study, 8400 community residents aged 18 or above were interviewed following a multistage random sampling method (100% response rate). Face-to-face questionnaire survey data, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical data from blood tests were collected. Results show that 49.6% of the subjects, as part of daily transport, actively traveled on average 5.3 days per week, 53.5 minutes per day, and 300.3 minutes per week. There was an inverse correlation between AT and some health outcomes: AT respondents had a higher prevalence of cholesterol disorder; AT respondents who actively travelled every day had a higher risk of diabetes, whilst AT respondents with shorter daily or weekly duration had a lower risk of obesity, central obesity, and cholesterol disorder. Moreover, AT influences more health aspects among urban residents than among rural residents. Findings of this study do not support the notion that AT is beneficial to population health. Further research is needed in determining the negative side effects of AT.
Intravesical Foreign Body via a Vesicoperineal Fistula
Authors: Potretzke Aaron M. , Wong Kelvin S. , Downs Tracy M.
Published: April 2013

Male urethral “play” has been described for centuries. There are serious potential complications in this. We present a bizarre case of a variant of such play. A 49-year-old man presented with abdominal pain and incontinence. He had created a “neovagina” at the perineum for self-pleasure. The handle of a toilet brush was placed in the neovagina for self-pleasure but retracted into the bladder via a vesicoperineal fistula. An open cystotomy was performed to remove the foreign body.
The Itô Integral with respect to an Infinite Dimensional Lévy Process: A Series Approach
Authors: Tappe Stefan
Published: April 2013

We present an alternative construction of the infinite dimensional Itô integral with respect to a Hilbert space valued Lévy process. This approach is based on the well-known theory of
real-valued stochastic integration, and the respective Itô integral is given by a series of Itô integrals with respect to standard Lévy processes. We also prove that this stochastic integral coincides with the Itô integral that has been developed in the literature.
Cardioprotective Effects ofω-3 PUFAs in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lee Su Mi , An Won Suk
Published: April 2013

The prevalence rate of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a main cause of death in patients with CKD. The high incidence of CVD in CKD patients is related to chronic inflammation, dyslipidemia, malnutrition, atherosclerosis, and vascular calcification. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) have been shown to reduce the risk of CVD. In this paper, we review the beneficial effects ofω-3 PUFAs on CVD and the possible cardioprotective mechanisms ofω-3 PUFAs in CKD patients by determining the effect ofω-3 PUFAs in the general population.ω-3 PUFAs have several cardioprotective benefits, such as reducing inflammation, decreasing oxidative stress, inhibiting platelet activity, exerting antiarrhythmic effects, and improving triglyceride levels, in the general population and patients with CKD. Modifications of erythrocyte membrane fatty acid content, including an increasedω-3 index and decreased oleic acid, afterω-3 PUFAs supplementation are important changes related to CVD risk reduction in the general population and patients with CKD. Further basic and clinical studies are essential to confirm the effects ofω-3 PUFAs on vitamin D activation, vascular calcification prevention, cardiovascular events, and mortality in CKD patients.
Indoor Carbon Monoxide: A Case Study in England for Detection and Interventions to Reduce Population Exposure
Authors: McCann L. J. , Close R. , Staines L. , Weaver M. , Cutter G. , Leonardi G. S.
Published: April 2013

Background. Potential exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) in private homes is largely unquantified.Aim. To estimate prevalence of potential exposure to CO in residential dwellings and describe associated interventions in an inner-city community.Methods. A housing association in London, Hackney Homes, began fitting CO alarms in the 22,831 local authority homes it is responsible for in January 2010. A gas engineer investigated each alarm activation and recorded the information on a standard form. We undertook a cross-sectional study of all 22,831 homes, using data from these forms. Descriptive analysis was performed, including incidence, monthly variation, cause of alarm activation, and actions taken.Results. Between November 2011 and April 2012, 106 incidents were reported. Of these, 34.6% identified an issue with a gas appliance, and 10.6% identified misuse of cooking methods as the cause of activation. Relevant interventions were put in place, including disconnection of the gas appliance and education around cooking methods.Discussion. Little is known about the burden of CO poisoning in residential dwellings. This study provides important information on the path to quantifying population exposure to CO as well as establishing a possible approach to access this key information and realistic interventions to reduce potential exposure.
Studying the Enrichment of Ice Cream with Alginate Nanoparticles Including Fe and Zn Salts
Authors: Sharifi Armoon , Golestan Leila , Sharifzadeh Baei Mazyar
Published: April 2013

The aim of this research was developing alginate nanoparticles as a carrier for food enrichment. In this research, Fe/Zn-loaded alginate nanoparticles were prepared and characterized as point size, morphology, FTIR, loading efficacy (LE), and release properties and used in ice cream structure. After this stage, absorption of the salts was measured and sensory and rheological evaluations were taken for samples. Results showed that alginate nanoparticles have average size between 90 and 135 nm. Also, the shape of the nanoparticles is regular and smooth without aggregation phenomena. FTIR certified that Zn/Fe loaded into alginate nanoparticles. Also, loading efficacy of Zn/Fe was 70–85% and release profile of nanoparticles showed a steady state. Alginate nanoparticles could decrease the loss of Fe/Zn in comparison control. Furthermore, these nanoparticles have no side effects on sensory and rheological properties. Hence, this nanoparticle can be suggestive for the enrichment of ice cream and probably other foods.
An Unusual Complication after Shoulder Hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Stone Oliver D. , Breusch S. J.
Published: April 2013

Hemiarthroplasty of the shoulder can be a safe and an effective treatment for pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Many complications have been previously described in the literature; the most common of which are dislocation, loosening, periprosthetic fractures, and infection. We report a patient who presented with a discharging sinus over the tip of the acromium which was created by the displacement of the prosthesis and erosion of the AC joint and distal clavicle. The erosion of the distal clavicle and AC joint caused the remaining proximal clavicle to become mobile and displaced posteriorly; this spike of clavicle was then able to penetrate the trapezius muscle and eventually the skin causing an aseptic sinus. This was successfully treated with the exploration and excision of the distal 2 cm of the clavicle.
Label-Free Quantitation and Mapping of the ErbB2 Tumor Receptor by Multiple Protease Digestion with Data-Dependent (MS1) and Data-Independent (MS2) Acquisitions
Authors: Held Jason M. , Schilling Birgit , D'Souza Alexandria K. , Srinivasan Tara , Behring Jessica B. , Sorensen Dylan J. , Benz Christopher C. , Gibson Bradford W.
Published: April 2013

The receptor tyrosine kinase ErbB2 is a breast cancer biomarker whose posttranslational modifications (PTMs) are a key indicator of its activation. Quantifying the expression and PTMs of biomarkers such as ErbB2 by selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mass spectrometry has several limitations, including minimal coverage and extensive assay development time. Therefore, we assessed the utility of two high resolution, full scan mass spectrometry approaches, MS1 Filtering and SWATH MS2, for targeted ErbB2 proteomics. Endogenous ErbB2 immunoprecipitated from SK-BR-3 cells was in-gel digested with trypsin, chymotrypsin, Asp-N, or trypsin plus Asp-N in triplicate. Data-dependent acquisition with an AB SCIEX TripleTOF 5600 and MS1 Filtering data processing was used to assess peptide and PTM coverage as well as the reproducibility of enzyme digestion. Data-independent acquisition (SWATH) was also performed for MS2 quantitation. MS1 Filtering and SWATH MS2 allow quantitation of all detected analytes after acquisition, enabling the use of multiple proteases for quantitative assessment of target proteins. Combining high resolution proteomics with multiprotease digestion enabled quantitative mapping of ErbB2 with excellent reproducibility, improved amino acid sequence and PTM coverage, and decreased assay development time compared to typical SRM assays. These results demonstrate that high resolution quantitative proteomic approaches are an effective tool for targeted biomarker quantitation.
Optimizing Inventory and Pricing Policy for Seasonal Deteriorating Products with Preservation Technology Investment
Authors: He Yong , Huang Hongfu
Published: April 2013

The paper studies a kind of deteriorating seasonal product whose deterioration rate can be controlled by investing on the preservation efforts. In contrast to previous studies, the paper considers the seasonal and deteriorating properties simultaneously. A deteriorating inventory model is developed for this problem. We also provide a solution procedure to find the optimal decisions about the preservation technology investment, the market price, and the ordering frequency. Then a case study is used to illustrate the model and the solution procedure. Finally, sensitive analysis of the optimal solution with respect to major parameters is carried out.
Dynamic Sensor Scheduling for Thermal Management in Biological Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Osais Yahya , Yu F. Richard , St-Hilaire Marc
Published: April 2013

Biological sensors are a very promising technology that will take healthcare to the next level. However, there are obstacles that must be overcome before the full potential of this technology can be realized. One such obstacle is that the heat generated by biological sensors implanted into a human body might damage the tissues around them. Dynamic sensor scheduling is one way to manage and evenly distribute the generated heat. In this paper, the dynamic sensor scheduling problem is formulated as a Markov decision process (MDP). Unlike previous works, the temperature increase in the tissues caused by the generated heat is incorporated into the model. The solution of the model gives an optimal policy that when executed will result in the maximum possible network lifetime under a constraint on the maximum temperature level tolerable by the patient's body. In order to obtain the optimal policy in a lesser amount of time, two specific types of states are aggregated to produce a considerably smaller MDP model equivalent to the original one. Numerical and simulation results are presented to show the validity of the model and superiority of the optimal policy produced by it when compared with two policies one of which is specifically designed for biological wireless sensor networks.
An Energy-Efficient Motion Strategy for Mobile Sensors in Mixed Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Jiang , Fu Jun-Song , Chao Han-Chieh
Published: April 2013

The mixed wireless sensor networks that are composed of a mixture of mobile and static sensors are the tradeoff between cost and coverage. To provide the required high coverage, the mobile sensors have to move from dense areas to sparse areas. However, where to move and how to move are important issues for mobile sensors. This paper presents a centralized algorithm to assist the movement of mobile sensors. In this algorithm, the management node of the WSN collected the geographical information of all of the static and mobile sensors. Then, the management node executed the algorithm to get the best matches between mobile sensors and coverage holes. Simulation results show the effectiveness of our algorithm, in terms of saving energy and the load balance.
Gamma-Poisson Distribution Model for Text Categorization
Authors: Ogura Hiroshi , Amano Hiromi , Kondo Masato
Published: April 2013

We introduce a new model for describing word frequency distributions in documents for automatic text classification tasks. In the model, the gamma-Poisson probability distribution is used to achieve better text modeling. The framework of the modeling and its application to text categorization are demonstrated with practical techniques for parameter estimation and vector normalization. To investigate the efficiency of our model, text categorization experiments were performed on 20 Newsgroups, Reuters-21578, Industry Sector, and TechTC-100 datasets. The results show that the model allows performance comparable to that of the support vector machine and clearly exceeding that of the multinomial model and the Dirichlet-multinomial model. The time complexity of the proposed classifier and its advantage in practical applications are also discussed.
A Robust Rerank Approach for Feature Selection and Its Application to Pooling-Based GWA Studies
Authors: Liu Jia-Rou , Kuo Po-Hsiu , Hung Hung
Published: April 2013

Large-p-small-ndatasets are commonly encountered in modern biomedical studies. To detect the difference between two groups, conventional methods would fail to apply due to the instability in estimating variances int-test and a high proportion of tied values in AUC (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) estimates. The significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) may also not be satisfactory, since its performance is sensitive to the tuning parameter, and its selection is not straightforward. In this work, we propose a robust rerank approach to overcome the above-mentioned diffculties. In particular, we obtain a rank-based statistic for each feature based on the concept of “rank-over-variable.” Techniques of “random subset” and “rerank” are then iteratively applied to rank features, and the leading features will be selected for further studies. The proposed re-rank approach is especially applicable for large-p-small-ndatasets. Moreover, it is insensitive to the selection of tuning parameters, which is an appealing property for practical implementation. Simulation studies and real data analysis of pooling-based genome wide association (GWA) studies demonstrate the usefulness of our method.
Influence of Long‐Term Thinning on the Biomass Carbon and Soil Respiration in a Larch (Larix gmelinii) Forest in Northeastern China
Authors: Wang Huimei , Liu Wei , Wang Wenjie , Zu Yuangang
Published: April 2013

Thinning management is used to improve timber production, but only a few data are available on how it influences ecosystem C sink capacity. This study aims to clarify the effects of thinning on C sinks of larch plantations, the most widespread forests in Northeastern China. Both C influx from biomass production and C efflux from each soil respiration component and its temperature sensitivity were determined for scaling‐up ecosystem C sink estimation: microbial composition is measured for clarifying mechanism for respiratory changes from thinning treatment. Thinning management induced 6.23 mol C m−2 yr−1 increase in biomass C, while the decrease in heterotrophic respiration (Rh) at the thinned sites (0.9 mol C m−2 yr−1) has enhanced 14% of this biomass C increase. This decrease in Rh was a sum of the 42% decrease (4.1 mol C m−2 yr−1) in litter respiration and 3.2 mol C m−2 yr−1 more CO2 efflux from mineral soil in thinned sites compared with unthinned control. Increases in temperature, temperature sensitivity, alteration of litters, and microbial composition may be responsible for the contrary changes in Rh from mineral soil and litter respiration, respectively. These findings manifested that thinning management of larch plantations could enhance biomass accumulation and decrease respiratory efflux from soil, which resulted in the effectiveness improvement in sequestrating C in forest ecosystems.
The Impact of Body Mass Index and Weight Changes on Disability Transitions and Mortality in Brazilian Older Adults
Authors: Drumond Andrade Flávia Cristina , Mohd Nazan Ahmad Iqmer Nashriq , Lebrão Maria Lúcia , Oliveira Duarte Yeda Aparecida de
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to examine the association between body mass index and weight changes on disability transitions and mortality among Brazilian older adults. Longitudinal data from the Health, Well-Being, and Aging in Latin America and the Caribbean Study conducted in São Paulo, Brazil (2000 and 2006), were used to examine the impact of obesity on disability and mortality and of weight changes on health transitions related to disability. Logistic and multinomial regression models were used in the analyses. Individuals who were obese were more likely than those of normal weight to have limitations on activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activity of daily living (IADL), and Nagi's limitations. Obesity was associated with higher incidence of ADL and IADL limitations and with lower recovery from Nagi's limitations. Compared to those who maintained their weight, those who gained weight experienced higher incidence of ADL and Nagi's limitations, even after controlling for initial body mass index. Higher mortality among overweight individuals was only found when the reference category was “remaining free of Nagi limitations.” The findings of the study underline the importance of maintaining normal weight for preventing disability at older ages.
Customized Tracheostomy Cannula as a Therapeutic Adjunct in Tracheal Stenosis
Authors: Lee Doh Young , Seok Jungirl , Cha Wonjae , Lee Won Yong , Hah J. Hun. , Kwon Tack-Kyun , Kim Kwang Hyun , Sung Myung-Whun
Published: April 2013

Tracheotomy is often successfully used to manage tracheal stenosis, as a temporizing measure prior to definitive treatment or a long-term remedy. In some patients, where a sizeable portion trachea is stenotic, the fixed arm of an ordinary tracheotomy tube may not be of sufficient length to satisfactorily maintain the distal tracheal lumen, and commercially available adjustable tubes may not be at hand in certain clinical settings. Herein, we describe a simple method of constructing a temporary tracheotomy tube with an adjustable distal arm, allowing custom fit at the patient bedside.
The Value of Peer Learning in Undergraduate Nursing Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stone Robyn , Cooper Simon , Cant Robyn
Published: April 2013

The study examined various methods of peer learning and their effectiveness in undergraduate nursing education. Using a specifically developed search strategy, healthcare databases were systematically searched for peer-reviewed articles, with studies involving peer learning and students in undergraduate general nursing courses (in both clinical and theoretical settings) being included. The studies were published in English between 2001 and 2010. Both study selection and quality analysis were undertaken independently by two researchers using published guidelines and data was thematically analyzed to answer the research questions. Eighteen studies comprising various research methods were included. The variety of terms used for peer learning and variations between study designs and assessment measures affected the reliability of the study. The outcome measures showing improvement in either an objective effect or subjective assessment were considered a positive result with sixteen studies demonstrating positive aspects to peer learning including increased confidence, competence, and a decrease in anxiety. We conclude that peer learning is a rapidly developing aspect of nursing education which has been shown to develop students’ skills in communication, critical thinking, and self-confidence. Peer learning was shown to be as effective as the conventional classroom lecture method in teaching undergraduate nursing students.
Link between Cancer and Alzheimer Disease via Oxidative Stress Induced by Nitric Oxide-Dependent Mitochondrial DNA Overproliferation and Deletion
Authors: Aliev Gjumrakch , Obrenovich Mark E. , Tabrez Shams , Jabir Nasimudeen R. , Reddy V. Prakash , Li Yi , Burnstock Geoffrey , Cacabelos Ramon , Kamal Mohammad Amjad
Published: April 2013

Nitric oxide- (NO-) dependent oxidative stress results in mitochondrial ultrastructural alterations and DNA damage in cases of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, little is known about these pathways in human cancers, especially during the development as well as the progression of primary brain tumors and metastatic colorectal cancer. One of the key features of tumors is the deficiency in tissue energy that accompanies mitochondrial lesions and formation of the hypoxic smaller sized mitochondria with ultrastructural abnormalities. We speculate that mitochondrial involvement may play a significant role in the etiopathogenesis of cancer. Recent studies also demonstrate a potential link between AD and cancer, and anticancer drugs are being explored for the inhibition of AD-like pathology in transgenic mice. Severity of the cancer growth, metastasis, and brain pathology in AD (in animal models that mimic human AD) correlate with the degree of mitochondrial ultrastructural abnormalities. Recent advances in the cell-cycle reentry of the terminally differentiated neuronal cells indicate that NO-dependent mitochondrial abnormal activities and mitotic cell division are not the only important pathogenic factors in pathogenesis of cancer and AD, but open a new window for the development of novel treatment strategies for these devastating diseases.
Increased Haematopoietic Supportive Function of USSC from Umbilical Cord Blood Compared to CB MSC and Possible Role of DLK-1
Authors: Kluth Simone Maria , Radke Teja Falk , Kögler Gesine
Published: April 2013

Multipotent stromal cells can be isolated from a variety of different tissues in the body. In contrast to stromal cells from the adult bone marrow (BM) or adipose tissue, cord blood (CB) multipotent stromal cells (MSC) are biologically younger. Since first being described by our group, delta like 1 homologue (DLK-1) was determined as a discriminating factor between the distinct cord blood-derived subpopulations: the unrestricted somatic stromal cells (USSC), which lack adipogenic differentiation capacity, and the BM MSC-like CB MSC. In this study, experiments assessing the haematopoiesis-supporting capacity and molecular biological analyses were conducted and clearly confirmed different properties. Compared to CB MSC, USSC lead to a higher expansion of haematopoietic cells and in addition express significantly higher levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), but lower levels of IGF2. The data presented here also indicate that DLK-1 might not be the sole factor responsible for the inhibition of adipogenic differentiation potential in USSC but nevertheless indicates a biological diversity among cord blood-derived stromal cells.