bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the Pattern of High Temperature Areas in Urban Greenery of Nanjing City, China
Authors: Su Weizhong , Yang Guishan , Chen Shuang , Yang Yinbao
Published: August 2012

Most studies are concerned with the cooling effect of urban greenery, but some have also revealed that some patches changed from normal temperature areas (NTAs) into high temperature areas (HTAs). Landsat TM images and ArcGIS software are used to analyze the HTA patterns in Nanjing, China. The HTAs’ lower limit temperature was defined as the 30.26 °C and the percentage of the HTAs in all greenery was 24.87%. The disturbance on the cooling effect existed but not evidently. The average impervious ratio (IR) and surface temperature (ST) of HTAs, respectively, were 3.76 times and higher 2.86 °C than those of NTAs. The structure of NTAs’ IR levels was extremely uneven but the HTAs’ were relatively even. However, the co-coefficient between the IR and ST in the whole greenery was small. Sampling analysis with the same ST and IR revealed that the complex environment in green buffer affected temperature differences; The adjacent HTAs, with its 89.78% in the study area, largely along the green patch, were far more than independent HTAs and presented a ring shape. Thus, the significantly heterogeneous urban environment inevitably resulted in diverse factors forming HTAs.
Use of After Action Reports (AARs) to Promote Organizational and Systems Learning in Emergency Preparedness
Authors: Savoia Elena , Agboola Foluso , Biddinger Paul D.
Published: August 2012

Many public health and healthcare organizations use formal knowledge management practices to identify and disseminate the experiences gained over time. The “lessons-learned” approach is one such example of knowledge management practice applied to the wider concept of organizational learning. In the field of emergency preparedness, the lessons-learned approach stands on the assumption that learning from experience improves practice and minimizes avoidable deaths and negative economic and social consequences of disasters. In this project, we performed a structured review of AARs to analyze how lessons learned from the response to real-incidents may be used to maximize knowledge management and quality improvement practices such as the design of public health emergency preparedness (PHEP) exercises. We chose as a source of data the “Lessons Learned Information Sharing (LLIS.gov)” system, a joined program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security DHS and FEMA that serves as the national, online repository of lessons learned, best practices, and innovative ideas. We identified recurring challenges reported by various states and local public health agencies in the response to different types of incidents. We also strived to identify the limitations of systematic learning that can be achieved due to existing weaknesses in the way AARs are developed.
Structural and Oxidative Changes in the Kidney of Crucian Carp Induced by Silicon-Based Quantum Dots
Authors: Petrache Sorina Nicoleta , Stanca Loredana , Serban Andreea Iren , Sima Cornelia , Staicu Andreia Cristina , Munteanu Maria Cristina , Costache Marieta , Burlacu Radu , Zarnescu Otilia , Dinischiotu Anca
Published: August 2012

Silicon-based quantum dots were intraperitoneally injected in Carassius auratus gibelio specimens and, over one week, the effects on renal tissue were investigated by following their distribution and histological effects, as well as antioxidative system modifications. After three and seven days, detached epithelial cells from the basal lamina, dilated tubules and debris in the lumen of tubules were observed. At day 7, nephrogenesis was noticed. The reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration decreased in the first three days and started to rise later on. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased only after one week, whereas catalase (CAT) was up-regulated in a time-dependent manner. The activities of glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidise (GPX) decreased dramatically by approximately 50% compared to control, whereas the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) increased significantly after 3 and 7 days of treatment. Oxidative modifications of proteins and the time-dependent increase of Hsp70 expression were also registered. Our data suggest that silicon-based quantum dots induced oxidative stress followed by structural damages. However, renal tissue is capable of restoring its integrity by nephron development.
Mitochondrial Adaptations to Oxidative Stress Confer Resistance to Apoptosis in Lymphoma Cells
Authors: Wilkinson Sarah T. , Tome Margaret E. , Briehl Margaret M.
Published: August 2012

Acquired resistance to drugs commonly used for lymphoma treatment poses a significant barrier to improving lymphoma patient survival. Previous work with a lymphoma tissue culture model indicates that selection for resistance to oxidative stress confers resistance to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. This suggests that adaptation to chronic oxidative stress can contribute to chemoresistance seen in lymphoma patients. Oxidative stress-resistant WEHI7.2 cell variants in a lymphoma tissue culture model exhibit a range of apoptosis sensitivities. We exploited this phenotype to test for mitochondrial changes affecting sensitivity to apoptosis in cells made resistant to oxidative stress. We identified impaired release of cytochrome c, and the intermembrane proteins adenylate kinase 2 and Smac/DIABLO, indicating inhibition of the pathway leading to permeabilization of the outer mitochondrial membrane. Blunting of a glucocorticoid-induced signal and intrinsic mitochondrial resistance to cytochrome c release contributed to both points of resistance. The level of Bcl-2 family members or a difference in Bim induction were not contributing factors. The extent of cardiolipin oxidation following dexamethasone treatment, however, did correlate with apoptosis resistance. The differences found in the variants were all proportionate to the degree of resistance to glucocorticoid treatment. We conclude that tolerance to oxidative stress leads to mitochondrial changes that confer resistance to apoptosis.
Bone Marrow-Derived HipOP Cell Population Is Markedly Enriched in Osteoprogenitors
Authors: Itoh Shousaku , Matsushita Kenta , Ikeda Shun , Yamamoto Yumiko , Yamauchi Yukako , Yoshioka Seisuke , Yamamoto Reiko , Ebisu Shigeyuki , Hayashi Mikako , Aubin Jane E.
Published: August 2012

We recently succeeded in purifying a novel multipotential progenitor or stem cell population from bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). This population exhibited a very high frequency of colony forming units-osteoblast (CFU-O; 100 times higher than in BMSCs) and high expression levels of osteoblast differentiation markers. Furthermore, large masses of mineralized tissue were observed in in vivo transplants with this new population, designated highly purified osteoprogenitors (HipOPs). We now report the detailed presence and localization of HipOPs and recipient cells in transplants, and demonstrate that there is a strong relationship between the mineralized tissue volume formed and the transplanted number of HipOPs.
Cell Growth on Different Types of Ultrananocrystalline Diamond Thin Films
Authors: Shi Bing , Jin Qiaoling , Chen Liaohai , Woods Amina S. , Schultz Albert J. , Auciello Orlando
Published: August 2012

Unique functional materials provide a platform as scaffolds for cell/tissue regeneration. Investigation of cell-materials’ chemical and biological interactions will enable the application of more functional materials in the area of bioengineering, which provides a pathway to the novel treatment for patients who suffer from tissue/organ damage and face the limitation of donation sources. Many studies have been made into tissue/organ regeneration. Development of new substrate materials as platforms for cell/tissue regeneration is a key research area. Studies discussed in this paper focus on the investigation of novel ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD) films as substrate/scaffold materials for developmental biology. Specially designed quartz dishes have been coated with different types of UNCD films and cells were subsequently seeded on those films. Results showed the cells’ growth on UNCD-coated culture dishes are similar to cell culture dishes with little retardation, indicating that UNCD films have no or little inhibition on cell proliferation and are potentially appealing as substrate/scaffold materials. The mechanisms of cell adhesion on UNCD surfaces are proposed based on the experimental results. The comparisons of cell cultures on diamond-powder-seeded culture dishes and on UNCD-coated dishes with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization—time-of-flight mass spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF MS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses provided valuable data to support the mechanisms proposed to explain the adhesion and proliferation of cells on the surface of the UNCD platform.
Time-Dependent Damage Investigation of Rock Mass in an In Situ Experimental Tunnel
Authors: Jiang Quan , Cui Jie , Chen Jing
Published: August 2012

In underground tunnels or caverns, time-dependent deformation or failure of rock mass, such as extending cracks, gradual rock falls, etc., are a costly irritant and a major safety concern if the time-dependent damage of surrounding rock is serious. To understand the damage evolution of rock mass in underground engineering, an in situ experimental testing was carried out in a large belowground tunnel with a scale of 28.5 m in width, 21 m in height and 352 m in length. The time-dependent damage of rock mass was detected in succession by an ultrasonic wave test after excavation. The testing results showed that the time-dependent damage of rock mass could last a long time, i.e., nearly 30 days. Regression analysis of damage factors defined by wave velocity, resulted in the time-dependent evolutional damage equation of rock mass, which corresponded with logarithmic format. A damage viscoelastic-plastic model was developed to describe the exposed time-dependent deterioration of rock mass by field test, such as convergence of time-dependent damage, deterioration of elastic modules and logarithmic format of damage factor. Furthermore, the remedial measures for damaged surrounding rock were discussed based on the measured results and the conception of damage compensation, which provides new clues for underground engineering design.
Effect of the Milling Time of the Precursors on the Physical Properties of Sprayed Aluminum-Doped Zinc Oxide (ZnO:Al) Thin Films
Authors: Ramireddy Thrinath Reddy , Venugopal Velmurugan , Bellam Jagadeesh Babu , Maldonado Arturo , Vega-Pérez Jaime , Velumani Subramaniam , Olvera María De La Luz
Published: August 2012

Aluminum doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al) thin films were deposited on soda-lime glass substrates by the chemical spray technique. The atomization of the solution was carried out by ultrasonic excitation. Six different starting solutions from both unmilled and milled Zn and Al precursors, dissolved in a mix of methanol and acetic acid, were prepared. The milling process was carried out using a planetary ball mill at a speed of 300 rpm, and different milling times, namely, 15, 25, 35, 45, and 60 min. Molar concentration, [Al]/[Zn] atomic ratio, deposition temperature and time, were kept at constant values; 0.2 M, 3 at.%, 475 °C, and 10 min, respectively. Results show that, under the same deposition conditions, electrical resistivities of ZnO:Al thin films deposited from milled precursors are lower than those obtained for films deposited from unmilled precursors. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that all films display a polycrystalline structure, fitting well with the hexagonal wurtzite structure. Changes in surface morphology were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) as well, since films deposited from unmilled precursors show triangular shaped grains, in contrast to films deposited from 15 and 35 min milled precursors that display thin slices with hexagonal shapes. The use of milled precursors to prepare starting solutions for depositing ZnO:Al thin films by ultrasonic pyrolysis influences their physical properties.
Separation Technique for the Determination of Highly Polar Metabolites in Biological Samples
Authors: Iwasaki Yusuke , Sawada Takahiro , Hatayama Kentaro , Ohyagi Akihito , Tsukuda Yuri , Namekawa Kyohei , Ito Rie , Saito Koichi , Nakazawa Hiroyuki
Published: August 2012

Metabolomics is a new approach that is based on the systematic study of the full complement of metabolites in a biological sample. Metabolomics has the potential to fundamentally change clinical chemistry and, by extension, the fields of nutrition, toxicology, and medicine. However, it can be difficult to separate highly polar compounds. Mass spectrometry (MS), in combination with capillary electrophoresis (CE), gas chromatography (GC), or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the key analytical technique on which emerging "omics" technologies, namely, proteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics, are based. In this review, we introduce various methods for the separation of highly polar metabolites.
The Active Ingredients of Jiang-Zhi-Ning: Study of the Nelumbo nucifera Alkaloids and Their Main Bioactive Metabolites
Authors: Chen Jianxin , Ma Xueling , Gao Kuo , Wang Yong , Zhao Huihui , Wu Hao , Wang Juan , Xie Hua , OuYang Yulin , Luo Liangtao , Guo Shuzhen , Han Jing , Liu Bing , Wang Wei
Published: August 2012

The object of this study was to identify the major active ingredients of the Chinese Traditional Medicine Jiang-Zhi-Ning (JZN) based on the high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profiles of plasma samples obtained from beagle dogs at different times after intragastric administration of JZN, crude JZN extracts, different extracted fractions, different subfractions of the active fraction and different isolated ingredients. 2-Hydroxy-1-methoxyaporphin (2H1M), an alkaloid from Nelumbo nucifera, one of the herbs that make up JZN, was identified as the constituent showing the major pharmacodynamic effect. The major metabolites of 2H1M were analyzed and identified as N-demethyl-2-hydroxy-1-methoxyaporphine-2-O-glycuronic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-methoxy-aporphine-2-O-glycuronic acid and 2-hydroxy-1-methoxy-aporphine-2-O-sulphate. This study provided a comprehensive insight into the active components of JZN.
Whole Genomic Analysis of Human G1P[8] Rotavirus Strains From Different Age Groups in China
Authors: Shintani Tsuzumi , Ghosh Souvik , Wang Yuan-Hong , Zhou Xuan , Zhou Dun-Jin , Kobayashi Nobumichi
Published: August 2012

G1P[8] rotaviruses are an important cause of diarrhea in humans in China. To date, there are no reports on the whole genomic analysis of the Chinese G1P[8] rotaviruses. To determine the origin and overall genetic makeup of the recent Chinese G1P[8] strains, the whole genomes of three strains, RVA/Human-wt/CHN/E1911/2009/G1P[8], RVA/Human-tc/CHN/R588/2005/G1P[8] and RVA/Human-tc/CHN/Y128/2004/G1P[8], detected in an infant, a child and an adult, respectively, were analyzed. Strains E1911, R588 and Y128 exhibited a typical Wa-like genotype constellation. Except for the NSP3 gene of E1911, the whole genomes of strains E1911, R588 and Y128 were found to be more closely related to those of the recent Wa-like common human strains from different countries than those of the prototype G1P[8] strain, or other old strains. On the other hand, the NSP3 gene of E1911 was genetically distinct from those of Y128, R588, or other Wa-like common human strains, and appeared to share a common origin with those of the porcine-like human G9 strains, providing evidence for intergenotype reassortment events. Comparisons of the amino acid residues defining the VP7 and VP4 antigenic domains revealed several mismatches between these Chinese G1P[8] strains and the G1 and P[8] strains contained in the currently licensed rotavirus vaccines RotarixTM and RotaTeqTM.
Cyclodextrin nanosponge-sensitized enantiodifferentiating photoisomerization of cyclooctene and 1,3-cyclooctadiene
Authors: Liang Wenting , Yang Cheng , Nishijima Masaki , Fukuhara Gaku , Mori Tadashi , Mele Andrea , Castiglione Franca , Caldera Fabrizio , Trotta Francesco , Inoue Yoshihisa
Published: August 2012

Enantiodifferentiating geometrical photoisomerizations of (Z)-cyclooctene and (Z,Z)-1,3-cyclooctadiene were performed by using the pyromellitate-linked cyclodextrin network polymer, termed “cyclodextrin nanosponge (CDNS)”, as a supramolecular sensitizing host. The photochirogenic behavior of the nanosponges incorporating β- or γ-cyclodextrin was significantly different from that reported for the conventional sensitizer-appended monomeric cyclodextrins, affording chiral (E)-cyclooctene and (E,Z)-cyclooctadiene in enantiomeric excesses critically dependent on the solution pH and solvent composition employed, revealing the active roles of chiral void spaces of CDNS in the photochirogenic reaction.
Interaction of cyclodextrins with pyrene-modified polyacrylamide in a mixed solvent of water and dimethyl sulfoxide as studied by steady-state fluorescence
Authors: Hashidzume Akihito , Zheng Yongtai , Harada Akira
Published: August 2012

The interaction of β- and γ-cyclodextrins (β-CD and γ-CD, respectively) with polyacrylamide modified with pyrenyl (Py) residues (pAAmPy) was investigated in a mixed solvent of water and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) by steady-state fluorescence. In the absence of CD, the fluorescence spectra indicated that the formation of Py dimers became less favorable with increasing volume fraction of DMSO (xDMSO). The fluorescence spectra at varying xDMSO and CD concentrations indicated that β-CD and γ-CD included monomeric and dimeric Py residues, respectively. Using the fluorescence spectra, equilibrium constants of the formation of Py dimers and the complexation of β-CD and γ-CD with Py residues were roughly estimated based on simplified equilibrium schemes.
Does Venesection Reduce HIV Viral Load in Patients with Hereditary Haemochromatosis?
Authors: Greaves Daniel E , Griffiths William JH , Lever Andrew ML
Published: August 2012

It is recognized that iron overload is associated with excess mortality in HIV/AIDS, and that this may be due to iron acting as an HIV-1 transcriptional activator. In vitro evidence using iron chelators suggests that therapeutic iron depletion may be beneficial in HIV-1 infection. We describe the clinical course of a Caucasian man with hereditary haemochromatosis and HIV infection where a significant drop in HIV viral load accompanied venesection over an 18-month period in the absence of HAART. We propose that further research should be undertaken to explore the relationship between HIV viral load and serum iron markers in hereditary haemochromatosis, with a view to evaluating the therapeutic benefit of venesection on HIV viral load in this setting.
Risk Factors for Vitamin D Deficiency and Relationship with Cardiac Biomarkers, Inflammation and Immune Restoration in HIV-Infected Youth
Authors: Eckard Allison Ross , Judd Suzanne E , Ziegler Thomas R , Camacho-Gonzalez Andres F , Fitzpatrick Anne M , Hadley Graham R , Grossmann Ruth E , Seaton LaTeshia , Seydafkan Shabnam , Mulligan Mark J , Rimann Nayoka , Tangpricha Vin , McComsey Grace A
Published: August 2012

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is common in HIV-infected individuals. In adults, traditional and HIV-related factors play a role in vitamin D status, and deficiency appears to impair immune restoration and exacerbate HIV complications, like cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study sought to determine factors contributing to vitamin D status in HIV-infected youth and investigate the relationship with CVD risk, inflammation and immune restoration.

Methods

HIV-infected subjects (1-25 years old) were enrolled prospectively along with healthy controls that were group-matched by age, sex and race. HIV data were collected for the HIV-infected group, while traditional risk factors, including vitamin D intake, sun exposure, skin pigmentation, physical activity level and body mass index (BMI) were collected for both groups. Fasting lipids, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), and inflammation markers were measured.

Results

In total, 200 HIV-infected subjects and 50 controls were enrolled. HIV group had 53% male, 95% Black and a mean age of 17.2 ±4.6 years. There was no difference in 25(OH)D between groups; 77% of HIV+ and 74% of controls had 25(OH)D<20 ng/ml. Only Fitzpatrick skin type was independently associated with 25(OH)D. No HIV variables were associated with 25(OH)D, even when HIV sub-populations were examined. Inflammation, CVD risk factors and immune restoration were not independently associated with 25(OH)D.

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency is common among HIV-infected youth. However, HIV factors, CVD risk, inflammation and immune restoration do not appear to have the same relationship with vitamin D as has been shown in adults. Supplementation trials are needed to determine if increasing 25(OH)D concentrations could better elucidate these relationships.
Pegylated Interferon Results in Higher Serological, but Not Virological, Response Rates When Compared to Continuous Entecavir
Authors: Sonneveld Milan J , Zoutendijk Roeland , Hansen Bettina E , Janssen Harry LA
Published: August 2012

Background

Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance are associated with an improved prognosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. These end points are more often achieved with a one-year course of pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) compared with one year of nucleoside/nucleotide analogue therapy. However, prolonged nucleoside/nucleotide analogue therapy may result in comparable serological response rates as with PEG-IFN.

Methods

We compared serological and virological response rates among HBeAg-positive CHB patients treated with long-term continuous entecavir (ETV; n=91) for a median of 92 (IQR 50–132) weeks or one year of PEG-IFN ( n=266) with comparable follow-up.

Results

Median follow-up was 92 weeks (IQR 78–198) for patients treated with PEG-IFN and 92 weeks (IQR 50–132) for patients treated with ETV. Finite PEG-IFN therapy resulted in significantly higher rates of HBeAg seroconversion (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 3.16; P<0.001) and HBsAg clearance (HR 5.66; P=0.027) when compared to prolonged ETV treatment, whereas, ETV resulted in higher rates of HBV DNA undetectability (OR 31.14; P<0.001) also after adjustment for HBV genotype and other relevant baseline factors.

Conclusions

Our study shows that finite PEG-IFN is associated with a higher probability of serological, but not virological, response for HBeAg-positive CHB patients when compared to prolonged ETV, even after correction for baseline differences.
Determinants of HIV Drug Resistance and Public Health Implications in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Bertagnolio Silvia , De Luca Andrea , Vitoria Marco , Essajee Shaffiq , Penazzato Martina , Hong Steven Y , McClure Craig , Duncombe Chris , Jordan Michael R
Published: August 2012

Global scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is an unprecedented public health achievement. With planned efforts of expanded ART access including earlier treatment initiation and the use of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for prophylaxis, increasing levels of HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) are expected. Several factors may lead to selection and transmission of significant HIVDR in LMICs, which will lead to decreased population-level efficacy of standard first- and second-line ART regimens. These factors include low genetic barrier of some ARVs to resistance development, drug–drug interactions, inappropriate prescribing practices, interruption of drug supply, poor retention in care and lack of routine viral load monitoring. To maximize long-term effectiveness of available ARVs, policy makers and programme managers in LMICs should routinely monitor programme factors associated with emergence and transmission of HIVDR and implement routine HIVDR surveillance following standardized methods. When surveillance results suggest the need for action, specific public health interventions must be taken to adjust ART programme functioning to minimize further emergence and transmission of HIVDR. In this paper, we review ARV drug, HIV, patient and programme-related determinants of HIVDR. Additionally, we summarize the World Health Orgnization's global HIVDR surveillance and prevention strategy and describe resulting public health and policy implications.
Relationship of Intrarenal Gene Expression and the Histological Class of Lupus Nephritis — A Study on Repeat Renal Biopsy
Authors: LU JIANXIN , SZETO CHEUK-CHUN , TAM LAI-SHAN , LAI FERNAND MAC-MOUNE , LI EDMUND KWOK-MING , CHOW KAI-MING , LI PHILIP KAM-TAO , KWAN BONNIE CHING-HA
Published: August 2012

Objective.

To study the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK)/Fn14 and the interferon-inducible protein (IP-10)/CXCR3 axis in lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods.

We studied 113 patients with LN who had had repeat renal biopsies. Glomerular and tubulointerstitial messenger RNA expression of TWEAK, Fn14, IP-10, and CXCR3 were quantified.

Results.

Glomerular Fn14 expression decreased when changed from proliferative or mixed nephritis to membranous nephropathy (p = 0.016), and increased when changed from membranous to proliferative or mixed nephritis (p = 0.0006). On the other hand, tubulointerstitial TWEAK expression decreased when changed from proliferative or mixed nephritis to membranous nephropathy (p = 0.004), and increased when changed from membranous nephropathy to proliferative nephritis (p = 0.010). Tubulointerstitial IP-10 expression decreased when changed from proliferative or mixed nephritis to membranous nephropathy (p < 0.0001). Histological activity index correlated significantly with the glomerular expression of Fn14 (r = 0.421, p < 0.0001) and tubulointerstitial expression of TWEAK (r = 0.413, p < 0.0001) and IP-10 (r = 0.472, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion.

Glomerular Fn14 and tubulointerstitial TWEAK and IP-10 expression appeared to have consistent changes in relation to the histological class of LN and correlated with the histological activity index. Our findings suggest a specific role of these genes in the pathogenesis of LN.
Vertebral Fractures in Ankylosing Spondylitis Are Associated with Lower Bone Mineral Density in Both Central and Peripheral Skeleton
Authors: KLINGBERG EVA , GEIJER MATS , GÖTHLIN JAN , MELLSTRÖM DAN , LORENTZON MATTIAS , HILME ELISABET , HEDBERG MARTIN , CARLSTEN HANS , FORSBLAD-D’ELIA HELENA
Published: August 2012

Objective.

To study the prevalence and risk factors for vertebral fractures (VF) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and the relation between VF, measures of disease activity, and bone mineral density (BMD) in different measurement sites.

Methods.

Patients with AS (modified New York criteria) underwent examination, answered questionnaires, and gave blood samples. Lateral spine radiographs were scored for VF (Genant score) and syndesmophyte formation through modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS). BMD was measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in the hip, radius, and lumbar spine in anteroposterior and lateral projections with estimation of volumetric BMD (vBMD).

Results.

Two hundred four patients (57% men) with a mean age of 50 ± 13 years and disease duration 15 ± 11 years were included. VF were diagnosed in 24 patients (12%), but were previously noted clinically in only 3 of the 24. Patients with VF were significantly older (p = 0.004), had longer disease duration (p = 0.011), higher Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (p = 0.011), mSASSS (p = 0.035), and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis patient global score-2 (BASG-2) (p = 0.032) and were more often smokers (p = 0.032). All women with a VF were postmenopausal. BMD was significantly lower at all measuring sites in the patients with VF. In logistic regression, high BASG-2, low BMD in femoral neck, and low lumbar vBMD were independently associated with presence of VF.

Conclusion.

VF in AS are common but are often not diagnosed. VF are associated with advanced age, longstanding disease, impaired back mobility, syndesmophyte formation, and lower BMD in both the central and peripheral skeleton. BMD in the femoral neck, total hip, and estimated vBMD showed the strongest association with VF.
D'une figure à l'autre. Discussion critique sur l'état de la socio-anthropologie du backpacking
Authors: Demers Jean-Christophe
Published: August 2012

Pour les principaux auteurs de la socio-anthropologie du backpacking, les fondements socioculturels poussant une partie de la jeunesse occidentale à se tourner à ce mode de voyage en apparence peu conventionnel, méritent d’être questionnés. Cet article entend tabler sur les acquis de la socio-anthropologie du backpacking ainsi que sur nos propres recherches de terrain et propose de comprendre les discours et les pratiques des backpackers comme l’expression d’une trame symbolique localement significative articulée aux principales injonctions identitaires propres à la culture occidentale. Nous avancerons qu’il existe une culture du backpacking, et qu’il serait possible de comprendre celle-ci non pas comme le fait du rejet d’une culture consumériste dénaturant la valeur d’authenticité, mais comme se situant dans un rapport dialectique avec les principales institutions des sociétés occidentales valorisant elles-mêmes l’épanouissement d’une identité authentique. La culture backpacker posséderait ainsi son cadre propre, soit une éthique de l’authenticité, sans pour autant condenser un rapport explicite (critique ou non) aux principales valeurs d’une certaine modernité occidentale.
Work-Related Injury and the Older Adult
Authors: Thomas Elizabeth Anne , Cadogan Mary P.
Published: August 2012

Many older adults are working beyond what was considered a “normal” retirement age in past generations. If work-related injury occurs, older adults may have increased vulnerabilities due to age and comorbid conditions not shared by their younger working peers. This article presents an individual example in which these vulnerabilities are explored, and unique processes within the work environment are noted. Awareness of the risks to older workers will aid clinicians in any setting to maximize prevention and management of co-morbidities that improve health status, function, and employment performance for older workers.
The Relationship Between Cognitive and Physical Function in Older Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Literature Review
Authors: Shin So Young
Published: August 2012

Intact cognitive function is a crucial underpinning for the performance of daily activities in people with chronic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Older adults with RA may have the increased burden of physical function difficulties due to the impact of both age-related cognitive decline and RA-related impairment. Population-based studies reviewed in this article found significant cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between cognitive function and physical function in older adults with and without comorbid health conditions. Although no study specifically examined this relationship in older adults with RA, interventions designed to enhance functional capacity by minimizing cognitive impairment may benefit older adults with RA. More studies are needed that investigate the relationship between cognitive and physical function in older adults with RA to eventually improve functional status and quality of life.
Parent-Child Relationships Between Korean American Adolescents and Their Parents
Authors: Choi Heeseung , Kim Minju , Park Chang Gi , Dancy Barbara L.
Published: August 2012

This cross-sectional correlational study examined the association between Korean American adolescents’ and their parents’ reports of parent-child relationships. A total of 61 Korean American families completed a questionnaire assessing parental knowledge, parental/filial self-efficacy, parent-child communication, and parent-child conflicts.
T
tests, Pearson’s correlations, a scatter diagram, and bivariate regression were used to analyze the data. Both Korean American adolescents and their parents reported that fathers were less knowledgeable about their child’s school life and less likely to communicate with their children than were mothers. Fathers reported a significantly lower level of parental self-efficacy than mothers, and adolescents also reported a significantly higher level of filial self-efficacy in mother-child relationships than in father-child relationships. Positive correlations between parents’ and adolescents’ reports of parent-child relationships were observed. These findings indicated a need for parent education programs or counseling services for Korean American parents of adolescents, particularly fathers with inadequate parental skills and limited communication with their children.
Hospice and Palliative Care for Terminally Ill Individuals with Serious and Persistent Mental Illness: Widening the Horizons
Authors: Terpstra Terry Lane , Terpstra Tammy Lynn
Published: August 2012

Terminally ill individuals with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI) are currently underserved by palliative care. However, palliative care nurses can expect to see more patients with SPMI because an estimated 6% of the adult population has chronic mental illness, and mortality and morbidity rates are higher in this group. Reasons for these increased rates are discussed. Literature regarding the provision of palliative care to those with SPMI is sparse, but what literature there is does offer suggestions for improvements in clinical practice. These suggestions for improvement are explored, and conclusions are drawn about the need for future research.
Widows and Widowers in Today’s Society
Authors: Sorrell Jeanne M.
Published: August 2012

With the increasing life span in our society, the number of widowed individuals has increased dramatically. The loss of a spouse is one of the most stressful life events for both women and men, yet there is little nursing research on the physical and psychosocial needs of older adults who are experiencing this loss. Some studies suggest that widowed women and men develop significant physical and mental health problems and complicated grief. Thus, it is important for nurses to recognize the diversity of grieving experiences and the increased vulnerability of widowed individuals to psychiatric illnesses that may result in suffering and impairment of daily functioning. With a better understanding of these needs, nurses can provide interventions that help these individuals maintain their health and independence.
Off-Label Medication Use
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: August 2012

Prescribing medications for off-label uses is not illegal. Off-label prescribing includes using medications for unapproved indications; using a drug outside of the recommended dosage range or duration of use; using a drug in certain unapproved patient populations, such as those defined by age, sex, or particular clinical parameters; or intentionally using a medication in a patient who has a known contraindication. Medications would be considered appropriate for off-label use based on their known clinical pharmacology, evidence from clinical studies, and sometimes from the personal experience of the prescriber. The decision to use a drug off label should be based on a careful assessment of the patient’s treatment history and the drug’s potential risks and benefits. Patients should be given adequate informed consent about how the drug is being used off label and why, along with appropriate information about known risks and side effects.
When Research Meets Reality–-Lessons Learned from a Pragmatic Multisite Group-Randomized Clinical Trial on Psychosocial Interventions in the Psychiatric and Addiction Field
Authors: Wüsthoff Linda E. , Waal Helge , Gråwe Rolf W.
Published: August 2012

Research on treatments for patients with co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders is of core importance and at the same time highly challenging as it includes patients that are normally excluded from clinical studies. Such research may require methodological adaptations which in turn create new challenges. However, the challenges that arise in such studies are insufficiently discussed in the literature. The aim of this methodology paper is, firstly, to discuss the methodological adaptations that may be required in such research; secondly, to describe how such adaptations created new challenges in a group-randomized clinical trial on Integrated Treatment amongst patients with co-occurring psychiatric and substance use disorders. We also discuss how these challenges might be understood and highlight lessons for future research in this field. Trial registration: NCT00447733.
On the surjectivity of Engel words on PSL(2,$q$)
Authors: Bandman Tatiana , Garion Shelly , Grunewald Fritz
Published: August 2012

We investigate the surjectivity of the word map defined by the

n

-th Engel word on the groups

\mathrm{PSL}(2,q)

and

\mathrm{SL}(2,q)

. For

\mathrm{SL}(2,q)

we show that this map is surjective onto the subset

\mathrm{SL}(2,q)\setminus\{-\mathrm{id}\}\subset \mathrm{SL}(2,q)

provided that

q \geq q_0(n)

is sufficiently large. Moreover, we give an estimate for

q_0(n)

. We also present examples demonstrating that this does not hold for all

q

. We conclude that the

n

-th Engel word map is surjective for the groups

\mathrm{PSL}(2,q)

when

q \geq q_0(n)

. By using a computer, we sharpen this result and show that for any

n \leq 4

the corresponding map is surjective for
all
the groups

\mathrm{PSL}(2,q)

. This provides evidence for a conjecture of Shalev regarding Engel words in finite simple groups. In addition, we show that the

n

-th Engel word map is almost measure-preserving for the family of groups

\mathrm{PSL}(2,q)

, with

q

odd, answering another question of Shalev.

Our techniques are based on the method developed by Bandman, Grunewald and Kunyavskii for verbal dynamical systems in the group

\mathrm{SL}(2,q)

.
Anosov AdS representations are quasi-Fuchsian
Authors: Barbot Thierry , Mérigot Quentin
Published: August 2012

Let

\Gamma

be a cocompact lattice in

\mathrm{SO}(1,n)

. A representation

\rho\colon \Gamma \to \mathrm{SO}(2,n)

is called
quasi-Fuchsian
if it is faithful, discrete, and preserves an acausal subset in the boundary of anti-de Sitter space. A special case are
Fuchsian representations
, i.e., compositions of the inclusions

\Gamma \subset \mathrm{SO}(1,n)

and

\mathrm{SO}(1,n) \subset \mathrm{SO}(2,n)

. We prove that quasi-Fuchsian representations are precisely those representations which are Anosov in the sense of Labourie (cf. (Lab06]). The study involves the geometry of locally anti-de Sitter spaces: quasi-Fuchsian representations are holonomy representations of globally hyperbolic spacetimes diffeomorphic to

\mathbb{R} \times \Gamma\backslash\mathbb{H}^{n}

locally modeled on

\mathrm{AdS}_{n+1}

.
Limits of Baumslag–Solitar groups and dimension estimates in the space of marked groups
Authors: Guyot Luc , Stalder Yves
Published: August 2012

We prove that the limits of Baumslag–Solitar groups studied by the authors are non-linear hopfian C*-simple groups with infinitely many twisted conjugacy classes. We exhibit infinite presentations for these groups, classify them up to group isomorphism, describe their automorphisms and discuss the word and conjugacy problems. Finally, we prove that the set of these groups has non-zero Hausdorff dimension in the space of marked groups on two generators.
Regional‐scale effects of eutrophication on ecosystem structure and services of seagrass beds
Authors: Schmidt Allison L. , Wysmyk Jessica K. C. , Craig Susanne E. , Lotze Heike K.
Published: August 2012

Using large‐scale field surveys across 12 estuaries in two provinces in Atlantic Canada, we analyzed changes in phytoplankton and benthic macroalgal communities as well as the canopy structure of eelgrass beds and quantified their carbon and nitrogen storage with increasing eutrophication. As eutrophication increased, phytoplankton biomass increased on average 1.8 times and phaeopigments doubled. Among macroalgae, the epiphytic Ulothrix speciosa increased 40 times in New Brunswick, and benthic Ulva lactuca 670 times in Prince Edward Island covering 61% of the bottom. Eelgrass showed a significant increase in leaf length and declines in shoot density and aboveground and belowground biomass, consistent with increased shading by opportunistic algae. As eelgrass biomass declined, so did the carbon storage capacity of the habitat. Nitrogen storage only declined in belowground eelgrass beds due to increasing tissue nitrogen content above ground with eutrophication. Despite province‐ and species‐specific responses of primary producers to nutrient loading, principal component analysis revealed an overall shift from perennial eelgrass to opportunistic macroalgae and phytoplankton with eutrophication at the regional scale, indicating generalized eutrophication effects on primary producer assemblages.
The “salt wedge pump”: Convection‐driven pore‐water exchange as a source of dissolved organic and inorganic carbon and nitrogen to an estuary
Authors: Santos Isaac R. , Cook Perran L. M. , Rogers Louissa , Weys Jason de , Eyre Bradley D.
Published: August 2012

Hypoxia and anoxia in coastal waters have typically been explained by the respiration of sinking organic matter associated with nutrient over‐enrichment and phytoplankton blooms. Here, we assess whether submarine groundwater discharge and seawater recirculation in sediments can explain widespread chemical anomalies, including low dissolved oxygen, in salt wedge estuaries. We rely on high‐resolution radon (a natural groundwater and pore‐water tracer), and dissolved carbon concentrations and stable isotope observations in the Yarra River estuary in Melbourne, Australia. Radon was highly enriched within the salt wedge, demonstrating enhanced pore‐water exchange at this area. We use the term “salt wedge pump” to describe convection‐driven advective pore‐water exchange at the sediment–water interface during the upstream propagation of the salt wedge. Radon‐derived convection‐driven pore‐water exchange rates within the salt wedge were estimated at 2.8 cm d−1, a value equivalent to 2.4% of the total river freshwater runoff to the estuary. Pore‐water exchange led to pulsed dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and ammonium fluxes ∼ 10‐fold higher than measured diffusive fluxes. In contrast, diffusive sediment oxygen uptake was 5‐fold higher than oxygen uptake related to advective pore‐water exchange. Estimated fluxes, associated with the nonconservative DIC, δ13C‐DIC, and ammonium behavior within the estuary support convective pore‐water exchange as a major source of DIC and ammonium to the estuary, but not of dissolved organic carbon, nitrate, dissolved organic nitrogen, and anoxia. Accounting for seawater recirculation in sediments may help reconcile unbalanced carbon and nitrogen budgets in several coastal systems.
Resources supporting the food web of a naturally productive lake
Authors: Batt Ryan D. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Cole Jonathan J. , Pace Michael L. , Cline Timothy J. , Johnson Robert A. , Seekell David A.
Published: August 2012

A Bayesian mixing model and stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and hydrogen were used to evaluate the extent to which six consumers (three fishes, two zooplankton, and a snail) in a naturally productive lake used terrestrial resources, epilimnetic and metalimnetic phytoplankton, benthic algae, and macrophytes. Resource use varied with consumer habitat use and feeding ability, but allochthony was consistently low (averaging 15% among consumers). The pelagic invertebrates Skistodiaptomus oregonensis and Chaoborus spp. relied on phytoplankton from the epilimnion (59% and 49%, respectively) and to a lesser extent from the metalimnion (28% and 26%, respectively); terrestrial resources comprised 9% and 18% of the diet of these consumers, respectively. The snail Helisoma trivolvis relied mainly on littoral resources (floating‐leafed macrophytes; 68% of diet), but terrestrial resources also constituted a substantial portion of its diet (21%). The fishes integrated among habitats more evenly than the other consumers, but pelagic resources formed the largest portion of their diets (Pimephales promelas = 64%, Lepomis gibbosus = 47%, and Perca flavescens = 47%). L. gibbosus was the fish with the most allochthonous diet (23%). The consumers of this productive lake were not highly dependent on allochthonous materials and tended to rely most heavily on local resources, including macrophytes.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells: The New Immunosuppressants?
Authors: Dhir Varun
Published: August 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells are adult stem cells which can differentiate into cells of mesodermal lineage. osteoblasts, chondroblasts and adipocytes. They have an important property of immunosuppression which is mediated mainly through soluble mediators, like interleukin-1, transforming growth factor-β, nitric oxide, indoleamine 2,3 dioxegenase, etc. They have been shown to suppress both naive and antigen experienced T cells, lead to T cell arrest, and suppress Th1 and Th17 responses. They have also been shown to lead to development of tolerogenic dendritic cells, Th2 response and expansion of T regulatory cells. Importantly, MSCs are cells with a low immunogenic potential and hence have been used both in allogenic as well as xenogenic settings. MSCs have shown efficacy in suppressing the development of autoimmune disease in various animal models, like collagen induced arthritis, MRL-lpr mice, EAE mice, etc. They have been used in small human studies, some of which have shown benefit like in systemic lupus erythematosus. Also, they have been used in graft-verus-host disease in humans with promising results. However, a single randomized controlled trial has been done and, thus, their current status remains investigational. It is hoped that they may become part of the armamentarium to control and abberant or excessive immune reponse.

Key messages

(1) Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are adult stem cells that can differentiate only in one lineage (mesodermal). (2) They were first discovered in the bone marrow and this remains a common source, followed by adipose tissue. There are other sources: Synovial fluid, umbilical cord blood, amniotic fluid, placenta, fetal liver. (3) MSCs are immunosuppressive, the mechanism of which is not fully elucidated, but involves action on other cells mainly through soluble mediators, like TGFβ, IDO, IL-1, NO, etc. (4) MSCs have shown efficacy in various animal models of autoimmune diseases. There have been small human studies, some of which showed benefit, however, a single randomized controlled trial has been done. (5) MSCs may have a role in autoimmune diseases refractory to treatment or as an add onto prevent treatment side effects.

How to cite this article

Dhir V. Mesenchymal Stem Cells: The New Immunosuppressants? J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2012;46(2):63-68.