bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Homocysteine-Pathway-Related Variants in Essential Hypertension
Authors: Fowdar Javed Y. , Lason Marta V. , Szvetko Attila L. , Lea Rodney A. , Griffiths Lyn R.
Published: October 2012

Hyperhomocysteinemia (hHcy) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Essential hypertension (EH), a polygenic condition, has also been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular related disorders. To investigate the role of the homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism pathway in hypertension we conducted a case-control association study of Hcy pathway gene variants in a cohort of Caucasian hypertensives and age- and sex-matched normotensives. We genotyped two polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR C677T and MTHFR A1298C), one polymorphism in the methionine synthase reductase gene (MTRR A66G), and one polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 1 gene (MTHFD1 G1958A) and assessed their association with hypertension using chi-square analysis. We also performed a multifactor dimensionality reduction (MDR) analysis to investigate any potential epistatic interactions among the four polymorphisms and EH. None of the four polymorphisms was significantly associated with EH and although we found a moderate synergistic interaction between MTHFR A1298C and MTRR A66G, the association of the interaction model with EH was not statistically significant (P=0.2367). Our findings therefore suggest no individual or interactive association between four prominent Hcy pathway markers and EH.
A New Family of Phase‐Fitted and Amplification‐Fitted Runge‐Kutta Type Methods for Oscillators
Authors: Chen Zhaoxia , You Xiong , Shu Xin , Zhang Mei
Published: October 2012

In order to solve initial value problems of differential equations with oscillatory solutions, this paper improves traditional Runge‐Kutta (RK) methods by introducing frequency‐depending weights in the update. New practical RK integrators are obtained with the phase‐fitting and amplification‐fitting conditions and algebraic order conditions. Two of the new methods have updates that are also phase‐fitted and amplification‐fitted. The linear stability and phase properties of the new methods are examined. The results of numerical experiments on physical and biological problems show the robustness and competence of the new methods compared to some highly efficient integrators in the literature.
Primary Renal Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma in Adults: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fanous Rafik Nabil , Mayer Erik K. , Vale Justin , Lloyd Josephine , Walker Marjorie M.
Published: October 2012

Adult renal rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare subtype of renal sarcoma. We present a case of a renal mass treated with radical nephrectomy that subsequently was shown to be renal rhabdomyosarcoma. We discuss the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and histology for this case and review the available literature.
Mixture of Polyphenols and Anthocyanins fromVaccinium uliginosum L.Alleviates DNCB-Induced Atopic Dermatitis in NC/Nga Mice
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Choung Se-Young
Published: October 2012

Vaccinium uliginosum L. (VU) possesses various biological properties, such as antioxidant and protective effects against VU-induced skin photoaging. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of oral administration of a mixture of polyphenols and anthocyanins derived from VU on 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene- (DNCB-) induced atopic dermatitis (AD) in NC/Nga mice. We assessed anti-AD effects in NC/Nga murine model for a period of 9 weeks. Oral administration of the mixture significantly alleviated the AD-like skin symptoms and clinical signs including ear thickness and scratching behaviors. Orally administrated mixture reduced the level of IgE and IgG1, whereas it increased the level of IgG2a in a dose-dependent manner. The calculated IgG1/IgG2a ratio for each mouse revealed that the mixture derived from VU also significantly reduced the Th2/Th1 ratio, IL-4 and IL-13 (as Th2 cytokines), IFN-γ, and IL-12 (as a Th1 cytokine) in spleens. In addition, it significantly decreased gene expression, such as IL-4, IL-5, CCR3, eotaxin-1, IL- 12, IFN-γ, MCP-1, and IL-17, in AD-like lesions and suppressed Th17. Histological analyses revealed that the epidermis thickness and number of inflammatory cells were significantly reduced. In conclusion, oral administration of the mixture in the DNCB-induced AD is confirmed to improve AD disease in mice.
Effects of Resource Limitations and Cost Influences on Computer Virus Epidemic Dynamics and Tipping Points
Authors: Huang Chung-Yuan , Sun Chuen-Tsai
Published: October 2012

One of the most important assessment indicators of computer virus infections is epidemic tipping point. Although many researchers have focused on the effects of scale‐free network power‐law connectivity distributions on computer virus epidemic dynamics and tipping points, few have comprehensively considered resource limitations and costs. Our goals for this paper are to show that (a) opposed to the current consensus, a significant epidemic tipping point does exist when resource limitations and costs are considered and (b) it is possible to control the spread of a computer virus in a scale‐free network if resources are restricted and if costs associated with infection events are significantly increased.
Red Ginseng Extract Attenuates Kainate-Induced Excitotoxicity by Antioxidative Effects
Authors: Han Jin-Yi , Ahn Sun-Young , Oh Eun-Hye , Nam Sang-Yoon , Hong Jin Tae , Oh Ki-Wan , Lee Mi Kyeong
Published: October 2012

This study investigated the neuroprotective activity of red ginseng extract (RGE,Panax ginseng, C. A. Meyer) against kainic acid- (KA-) induced excitotoxicityin vitroandin vivo. In hippocampal cells, RGE inhibited KA-induced excitotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner as measured by the MTT assay. To study the possible mechanisms of the RGE-mediated neuroprotective effect against KA-induced cytotoxicity, we examined the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and [Ca2+]iin cultured hippocampal neurons and found that RGE treatment dose-dependently inhibited intracellular ROS and [Ca2+]ielevation. Oral administration of RGE (30 and 200 mg/kg) in mice decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level induced by KA injection (30 mg/kg, i.p.). In addition, similar results were obtained after pretreatment with the radical scavengers Trolox andN,N′-dimethylthiourea (DMTU). Finally, after confirming the protective effect of RGE on hippocampal brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) protein levels, we found that RGE is active compounds mixture in KA-induced hippocampal mossy-fiber function improvement. Furthermore, RGE eliminated 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, and the IC50was approximately 10 mg/ml. The reductive activity of RGE, as measured by reaction with hydroxyl radical (•OH), was similar to trolox. The second-order rate constant of RGE for•OH was 3.5–4.5×109 M−1·S−1. Therefore, these results indicate that RGE possesses radical reduction activity and alleviates KA-induced excitotoxicity by quenching ROS in hippocampal neurons.
Pathological Role of Interleukin-6 in Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Ogata Atsushi , Kumanogoh Atsushi , Tanaka Toshio
Published: October 2012

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a clinical manifestation of psoriatic disease. Although the pathogenesis of PsA remains unknown, PsA can be managed by treatments similar to those used for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Because interleukin-(IL-) 6 has been suggested to have a pathogenic role in PsA, a humanized anti-IL-6 receptor antibody tocilizumab treatment for PsA was recently tried. However, the efficacy of tocilizumab for PsA was not favorable. This suggests that the pathogenic roles of IL-6 in PsA and RA are different. In RA, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) primarily contributes to the arthritis effector phase and IL-6 contributes to the arthritis priming phase. In PsA, the TNF-related effector phase is similar to that in RA, but the IL-6-related priming phase might not be critical. This paper discusses the role of IL-6 in PsA.
Deco: A Decentralized, Cooperative Atomic Commit Protocol
Authors: Buehrer Daniel J. , Wang Chun-Yao
Published: October 2012

An atomic commit protocol can cause long-term locking of databases if the coordinator crashes or becomes disconnected from the network. In this paper we describe how to eliminate the coordinator. This decentralized, cooperative atomic commit protocol piggybacks transaction statuses of all transaction participants onto tokens which are passed among the participants. Each participant uses the information in the tokens to make a decision of when to go to the next state of a three-phase commit protocol. Transactions can progress to ensure a uniform agreement on success or failure, even if the network is partitioned or nodes temporarily crash.
A Modified Technique for Culturing Primary Fetal Rat Cortical Neurons
Authors: Xu Sui-Yi , Wu Yong-Min , Ji Zhong , Gao Xiao-Ya , Pan Su-Yue
Published: October 2012

The study explored a modified primary culture system for fetal rat cortical neurons. Day E18 embryos from pregnant Sprague Dawley rats were microdissected under a stereoscope. To minimize enzymatic damage to the cultured neurons, we applied a sequential digestion protocol using papain and Dnase I. The resulting sifted cell suspension was seeded at a density of 50,000 cells per cm2onto 0.1 mg/mL L-PLL-covered vessels. After a four-hour incubation in high-glucose Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium (HG-DMEM) to allow the neurons to adhere, the media was changed to neurobasal medium that was refreshed by changing half of the volume after three days followed by a complete medium change every week. The cells displayed progressively robust neurite extension, and nonneuronal-like cells could barely be detected by five daysin vitro(DIV); cell growth was still substantial at 14 DIV. Neurons were identified byβ-tubulin III immunofluorescence, and neuronal purity within the cultures was assessed at over 95% by both flow cytometry and by dark-field counting ofβ-tubulin III-positive cells. These results suggest that the protocol was successful and that the high purity of neurons in this system could be used as the basis for generating various cell models of neurological disease.
Localization and Upregulation of the Nasal Histamine H1 Receptor in Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Shirasaki Hideaki , Kanaizumi Etsuko , Seki Nobuhiko , Himi Tetsuo
Published: October 2012

In the present study, we have investigated the expression of histamine H1 receptor in human turbinates by RT-PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Human turbinates were obtained by turbinectomy from 12 patients with nasal obstruction refractory to medical therapy. RT-PCR analysis of total RNA extracted from human nasal turbinate, primary cultured human nasal epithelial cells, and nasal vascular endothelial cells demonstrated the expression of histamine H1 receptor mRNA. About 56 kDa band was detected in human turbinates by western blot analysis using anti-H1 receptor antibody. The expression level of H1 receptor protein was marked in patients with nasal allergy than in patients with nonallergic rhinitis. The immunohistochemical study revealed that epithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells showed intense immunoreactivity for histamine H1 receptor. In addition, the blood vessels in superficial area expressed higher level of H1 receptor immunoreactivity than that in deeper area in the nasal mucosa. These results may have an important clinical implication for understanding the role of histamine H1 receptor on upper airway diseases such as allergic rhinitis and nonallergic rhinitis.
Analysis of Tools to Evaluate Chloride Threshold for Corrosion Onset of Reinforced Concrete in Tropical Marine Environment of Yucatán, México
Authors: Castro-Borges Pedro , Balancán-Zapata Mercedes , López-González Alexander
Published: October 2012

The chloride threshold for corrosion onset of reinforced concrete depends on several factors and is only valid for the specific condition of each factor. The main objective of this paper was to analyze different tools to obtain the chloride threshold for corrosion onset of reinforced concrete in tropical marine environment. Sixty Portland cement concrete cylinders were exposed in a tropical marine environment. One half of the samples had a reinforcing bar embedded at the center of the sample (corrosion measurements), and the other half was made with plain concrete (chloride measurements). Five water/cement ratios were tested representing the common practices of this region. The corrosion rate was monitored using the polarization resistance technique, and the chloride content was determined using an ion selective electrode. The chloride threshold was in the range of 0.3% to 1.1% by weight of cement for specimens at 50 m from the seashore. Main conclusion indicates that iaccum is a better tool to determine and/or predict chloride threshold in this study according to a conservative point of view in civil engineering. Using this tool, chloride threshold was 0.26% to 0.73% by weight of cement.
Study of the Kinetics Adsorption of Organic Pollutants on Modified Cellulosic Polymer Using Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy
Authors: Ghemati Djamila , Aliouche Djamel
Published: October 2012

We report a study on the formation of the complex acrylamidomethylated-β-cyclodextrin, then on the grafting on cellulosic polymer. The grafting is initiated by ceric ions Ce(IV) and confirmed by infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was carried out to evaluate properties of structure and surface of grafted polymers. The experiments of the study of adsorption of balance of phenol and hydroquinone and a reactive dye, acid dyes, and cationic dyes using ultraviolet-visible microscopy were made in aqueous solutions for 24 hours at different pH. Our results indicate formation of a permanent chemical bond betweenβ-cyclodextrin and polymers material. The cellulosic polymers can effectively be modified without significant change in the structural properties. Then, the results of organic pollutants adsorption in aqueous medium show the aptitude of the polymer modified to fix the phenol derivatives and synthetics dyes and used in the processing industrial liquid waste. The differences in adsorption capacities may be due to the effect of dye structure. The negative value of free energy change indicated the spontaneous nature of adsorption.
Evaluation of a Low-Threshold/High-Tolerance Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada: One Year Retention Rate and Illicit Drug Use
Authors: Christie Timothy K. S. , Murugesan Alli , Manzer Dana , O'Shaughnessey Michael V. , Webster Duncan
Published: October 2012

Objective. To report the one-year retention rate and the prevalence of illicit opioid use and cocaine use in the Low-Threshold/High-Tolerance (LTHT) methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clinic located in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada.Methods. A description of the LTHT MMT clinic is provided. The one-year retention rate was determined by collecting data on patients who enrolled in the LTHT MMT clinic between August 04, 2009 and August 04, 2010. The prevalence of illicit drug use was determined using a randomly selected retrospective cohort of 84 participants. For each participant the results of six consecutive urine tests for the most recent three months were compared to the results of the first six consecutive urine tests after program entry.Results. The one-year retention rate was 95%, 67% of the cohort achieved abstinence from illicit opioids and an additional 13% abstained from cocaine use.Conclusion. The novel feature of the LTHT MMT clinic is that patients are not denied methadone because of lack of ancillary services. Traditional comprehensive MMT programs invest the majority of financial resources in ancillary services that support the biopsychosocial model, whereas the LTHT approach utilizes a medical model and directs resources at medical management.
1‐Methyl‐3‐(2‐(sulfooxy)ethyl)‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium Chloride as a New and Green Ionic Liquid Catalyst for One‐Pot Synthesis of Dihydropyrimidinones under Solvent‐Free Condition
Authors: Sajjadifar Sami , Rezaee Nezhad Eshagh , Darvishi Ghasem
Published: October 2012

An efficient and simple method for the preparation of 1‐methyl‐3‐(2‐(sulfooxy)ethyl)‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium chloride {(MSEI)Cl} as an acidic ionic liquid is described. One‐pot multicomponent condensation of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds, urea/thiourea and aldehydes at 80∘C affords the corresponding compounds in high yields and in short reaction times by using (MSEI)Cl.
Physico‐Chemical Studies on the Coordination Compounds of Thiazolidin‐4‐One
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Kumar Amit , Sharma Jyoti
Published: October 2012

A dry benzene solution of the Schiff base, N‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐3′‐carboxy‐2′‐hydroxybenzylideneimine upon reacting with mercaptoacetic acid undergoes cyclization and forms N‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)‐C‐(3′‐carboxy‐2′‐hydroxyphenyl)thiazolidin‐4‐one, LH3 (I). A MeOH solution of I reacts with MnII, CuII
, ZnII, FeIII and Mo ions and forms the monomeric coordination compounds, [Mn(LH)(MeOH)3] (II), [Cu(LH)(MeOH)] (III), [Zn(LH)(MeOH)] (IV), [FeCl(LH)(MeOH)2] (V), and [MoO2(LH)(MeOH)](VI). The coordination compounds have been characterized on the basis of elemental analyses, molar conductance, molecular weight, spectral (IR, reflectance, ESR) studies, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. I behaves as a dibasic tridentate OOS donor ligand in these compounds. The compounds are nonelectrolytes (ΛM = 6.2–13.8 mho cm2 mol−1) in DMF. A square‐planar structure for III; a tetrahedral structure for IV and an octahedral structure for II, V, and VI are suggested.
Purines, Purinergic Receptors, and Cancer
Authors: Di Virgilio Francesco
Published: October 2012

Purines were long thought to be restricted to the intracellular compartment, where they are used for energy transactions, nucleic acid synthesis, and a multiplicity of biochemical reactions. However, it is now clear that both adenosine and adenosine triphosphate are (i) abundant biochemical components of the tumor microenvironment, (ii) potent modulators of immune cell responses and cytokine release, and (iii) key players in host–tumor interaction. Moreover, both ATP and adenosine directly affect tumor cell growth. Adenosine is a powerful immunosuppressant (mainly acting at A2A receptors) and a modulator of cell growth (mainly acting at A3 receptors). ATP is a proinflammatory (acting at P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4, P2Y6, and P2Y12, and at P2X4 and P2X7 receptors), an immunosuppressant (acting at P2Y11), and a growth-promoting agent (acting at P2Y1, P2Y2, and P2X7 receptors). This complex signaling network generates an array of inhibitory and stimulatory responses that affect immune cell function, tumor growth, and metastatic dissemination. Investigation of purinergic signaling has increased our understanding of the tumor microenvironment and opened new and exciting avenues for the development of novel therapeutics. Cancer Res; 72(21); 5441–7. ©2012 AACR.
Preventing Postoperative Metastatic Disease by Inhibiting Surgery-Induced Dysfunction in Natural Killer Cells
Authors: Tai Lee-Hwa , de Souza Christiano Tanese , Bélanger Simon , Ly Lundi , Alkayyal Almohanad A. , Zhang Jiqing , Rintoul Julia L. , Ananth Abhirami A. , Lam Tiffany , Breitbach Caroline J. , Falls Theresa J. , Kirn David H. , Bell John C. , Makrigiannis Andrew P. , Auer Rebecca A.
Published: October 2012

Natural killer (NK) cell clearance of tumor cell emboli following surgery is thought to be vital in preventing postoperative metastases. Using a mouse model of surgical stress, we transferred surgically stressed NK cells into NK-deficient mice and observed enhanced lung metastases in tumor-bearing mice as compared with mice that received untreated NK cells. These results establish that NK cells play a crucial role in mediating tumor clearance following surgery. Surgery markedly reduced NK cell total numbers in the spleen and affected NK cell migration. Ex vivo and in vivo tumor cell killing by NK cells were significantly reduced in surgically stressed mice. Furthermore, secreted tissue signals and myeloid-derived suppressor cell populations were altered in surgically stressed mice. Significantly, perioperative administration of oncolytic parapoxvirus ovis (ORFV) and vaccinia virus can reverse NK cell suppression, which correlates with a reduction in the postoperative formation of metastases. In human studies, postoperative cancer surgery patients had reduced NK cell cytotoxicity, and we show for the first time that oncolytic vaccinia virus markedly increases NK cell activity in patients with cancer. These data provide direct in vivo evidence that surgical stress impairs global NK cell function. Perioperative therapies aimed at enhancing NK cell function will reduce metastatic recurrence and improve survival in surgical cancer patients. Cancer Res; 73(1); 97–107. ©2012 AACR.
Single-Molecule Genomic Data Delineate Patient-Specific Tumor Profiles and Cancer Stem Cell Organization
Authors: Sottoriva Andrea , Spiteri Inmaculada , Shibata Darryl , Curtis Christina , Tavaré Simon
Published: October 2012

Substantial evidence supports the concept that cancers are organized in a cellular hierarchy with cancer stem cells (CSC) at the apex. To date, the primary evidence for CSCs derives from transplantation assays, which have known limitations. In particular, they are unable to report on the fate of cells within the original human tumor. Because of the difficulty in measuring tumor characteristics in patients, cellular organization and other aspects of cancer dynamics have not been quantified directly, although they likely play a fundamental role in tumor progression and therapy response. As such, new approaches to study CSCs in patient-derived tumor specimens are needed. In this study, we exploited ultradeep single-molecule genomic data derived from multiple microdissected colorectal cancer glands per tumor, along with a novel quantitative approach to measure tumor characteristics, define patient-specific tumor profiles, and infer tumor ancestral trees. We show that each cancer is unique in terms of its cellular organization, molecular heterogeneity, time from malignant transformation, and rate of mutation and apoptosis. Importantly, we estimate CSC fractions between 0.5% and 4%, indicative of a hierarchical organization responsible for long-lived CSC lineages, with variable rates of symmetric cell division. We also observed extensive molecular heterogeneity, both between and within individual cancer glands, suggesting a complex hierarchy of mitotic clones. Our framework enables the measurement of clinically relevant patient-specific characteristics in vivo, providing insight into the cellular organization and dynamics of tumor growth, with implications for personalized patient care. Cancer Res; 73(1); 41–49. ©2012 AACR.
Assessment of the F9 genotype-specific FIX inhibitor risks and characterisation of 10 novel severe F9 defects in the first molecular series of Argentinian patients with haemophilia B
Authors: Rossetti Liliana Carmen , Abelleyro Miguel Martín , Candela Miguel , Bianco Raúl Pérez , Pinto Miguel de Tezanos , Larripa Irene Beatriz , Goodeve Anne , Brasi Carlos Daniel De , Radic Claudia Pamela
Published: October 2012

In haemophilia B (HB) (factor IX [FIX] deficiency), F9 genotype largely determines clinical phenotype. Aimed to characterise Argentinian families with HB, this study presents F9 genotype frequencies and their specific FIX inhibitor risk and 10 novel F9 mutations. Ninety-one DNA samples from HB patients and relatives were subjected to a new scheme: a primary screen for large deletions, a secondary screen for point mutations using conformation sensitive gel electrophoresis, DNA-sequencing and bioinformatic analysis. Our unbiased HB population (N=52) (77% with severe, 11.5% moderate and 11.5% mild HB) showed 32 missense (61.5%), including three novel mutations predicting specific structural/functional defects in silico, seven nonsense (13.5%) (one novel), five large deletions, four splice including three novel mutations affecting predicted splicing scores, three indels (two novel) and one Leiden mutation. Our comprehensive HB population included five patients with long-lasting FIX inhibitors: three nonsense (p.E35* (novel), p.R75*, p.W240*) and two entire-F9 deletions. Another patient with an indel (p.A26Rfs*14) developed transient inhibitors. A case-control analysis, based on our global prevalence of 3.05% for developing inhibitors in HB revealed that missense mutations were associated with a low risk odds ratio (OR) of 0.05 and a prevalence of 0.39%, whereas nonsense and entire-F9 deletions had significantly higher risks (OR 11.0 and 32.7) and prevalence (14.3% and 44.5%, respectively). Our cost-effective practical approach enabled identification of the causative mutation in all 55 Argentine families with HB, analysis of the molecular pathology of novel F9 defects and determination of mutation-associated FIX inhibitor risks.
Phenotypic characterisation of pro-inflammatory monocytes and dendritic cells in peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Obst Viviane , Doppler Christopher , Radmacher Marie-Christine , Scheer Martin , Radsak Markus , Gori Tommaso , Warnholtz Ascan , Fottner Christian , Daiber Andreas , Münzel Thomas , Espinola-Klein Christine , Dopheide Jörn
Published: October 2012

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory process involving antigen-presenting cells like monocytes and dendritic cells (DC). The aim of this study was to perform a phenotypic characterisation of these cell types in patients with different degrees of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Sixty patients with PAD [N= 30 intermittent claudication (IC), N= 30 critical limb ischemia (CLI)] and 30 controls were included. Peripheral blood leucocytes were analysed from peripheral blood by flow cytometry using different gating strategies to directly identify and analyse monocytes, myeloid DC, (mDC) and plasmacytoid DC (pDC). PAD patients showed a significantly higher proportion of proinflammatory CD14++CD16+ monocytes (p<0.0001) compared with healthy individuals. We found an increased number of mDC/ml and a reduced number of pDC/ml (both p<0.01) in PAD patients, leading to a shift in the mDC/pDC ratio (p<0.01). As compared to patients with intermittent claudication, CLI patients presented a reduced expression of HLA-DR (p<0.01), CD86 and CD40 on both mDCs and pDCs (p<0.01). Peripheral blood monocytes show a proinflammatory phenotype in PAD patients compared to controls. In contrast, CLI patients show a reduced expression of proinflammatory markers. We hypothesise that severe ischaemia and/or prolonged inflammation in CLI might lead to a paradoxical attenuation in the proinflammatory membrane pattern of circulating mononuclear cells, possibly hindering an adequate regulatory function of mDCs and pDCs and favouring the progression of disease.
Impaired Role of Epoxyeicosatrienoic Acids in the Regulation of Basal Conduit Artery Diameter During Essential Hypertension
Authors: Bellien Jeremy , Remy-Jouet Isabelle , Iacob Michele , Blot Etienne , Mercier Alain , Lucas Daniele , Dreano Yvonne , Gutierrez Laurence , Donnadieu Nathalie , Thuillez Christian , Joannides Robinson
Published: October 2012

In young healthy subjects, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids synthesized by endothelial cytochrome P450 epoxygenases maintain basal conduit artery diameter during altered NO availability. Whether this compensatory mechanism is effective during essential hypertension is unknown. Radial artery diameter, blood flow, and mean wall shear stress were determined in 14 nontreated essential hypertensive patients and 14 normotensive control subjects during 8 minutes of brachial infusion for inhibitors of cytochrome P450 epoxygenases (fluconazole, 0.4 µmol/min) and NO synthase (
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine, 8 µmol/min) alone and in combination. In controls, the radial artery diameter was reduced by fluconazole (−0.034 ± 0.012 mm) and
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine (−0.037 ± 0.010 mm) and to a larger extent by their combination (−0.137 ± 0.011 mm), demonstrating a synergic effect. In contrast, the radial diameter in hypertensive patients was not affected by fluconazole (0.010 ± 0.014 mm) but was reduced by
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine (−0.091 ± 0.008 mm) to a larger extent than in controls. In parallel,
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine decreased local plasma nitrite to a lesser extent in hypertensive patients (−14 ± 5 nmol/L) than in controls (−50 ± 10 nmol/L). Moreover, the addition of fluconazole to
N
G
-monomethyl-
l
-arginine did not further decrease radial diameter in patients (−0.086 ± 0.011 mm). Accordingly, fluconazole significantly decreased local epoxyeicosatrienoic acid plasma level in controls (−2.0 ± 0.6 ng/mL) but not in patients (−0.9 ± 0.4 ng/mL). Inhibitors effects on blood flow and endothelium-independent dilatation to sodium nitroprusside were similar between groups. These results show that, in contrast to normotensive subjects, epoxyeicosatrienoic acids did not contribute to the regulation of basal conduit artery diameter and did not compensate for altered NO availability to maintain this diameter in essential hypertensive patients.
Neural Activity in Superior Parietal Cortex during Rule-based Visual-motor Transformations
Authors: Hawkins Kara M. , Sayegh Patricia , Yan Xiaogang , Crawford J. Douglas , Sergio Lauren E.
Published: October 2012

Cognition allows for the use of different rule-based sensorimotor strategies, but the neural underpinnings of such strategies are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to compare neural activity in the superior parietal lobule during a standard (direct interaction) reaching task, with two nonstandard (gaze and reach spatially incongruent) reaching tasks requiring the integration of rule-based information. Specifically, these nonstandard tasks involved dissociating the planes of reach and vision or rotating visual feedback by 180°. Single unit activity, gaze, and reach trajectories were recorded from two female Macaca mulattas. In all three conditions, we observed a temporal discharge pattern at the population level reflecting early reach planning and on-line reach monitoring. In the plane-dissociated task, we found a significant overall attenuation in the discharge rate of cells from deep recording sites, relative to standard reaching. We also found that cells modulated by reach direction tended to be significantly tuned either during the standard or the plane-dissociated task but rarely during both. In the standard versus feedback reversal comparison, we observed some cells that shifted their preferred direction by 180° between conditions, reflecting maintenance of directional tuning with respect to the reach goal. Our findings suggest that the superior parietal lobule plays an important role in processing information about the nonstandard nature of a task, which, through reciprocal connections with precentral motor areas, contributes to the accurate transformation of incongruent sensory inputs into an appropriate motor output. Such processing is crucial for the integration of rule-based information into a motor act.
Heart Rate Variability Exhibits Complication-Dependent Changes Postsurgery
Authors: Scheffler Patrick , Muccio Salvatore , Egiziano Giordano , Doonan Robert J. , Yu Alice , Carli Franco , Daskalopoulou Stella S.
Published: October 2012

“Surgical stress response” is tissue damage postsurgery, leading to a systemic response (inflammation, sympathetic upregulation, and release of vasoactive chemicals), which is typically measured by C-reactive protein (CRP). We assessed arterial stiffness and heart rate variability (HRV)—additional parameters reflecting autonomic and vascular functions—in this response and their potential associations with postoperative complications. In 47 participants undergoing abdominal surgery, CRP, arterial stiffness, and HRV were measured pre- and postoperatively (days 1 and 2). C-reactive protein was significantly higher postoperatively in participants experiencing complications but not preoperatively. Compared to participants without complications, those with complications had increased HRV and pnn50 (time domain) and tendency toward increasing low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (frequency domain) on postoperative day 2. Therefore, time and frequency domain HRV parameters show perioperative changes in relation to complication development. These findings suggest the applicability of this noninvasive technology to a variety of abdominal operations. Larger studies need to confirm these findings.
A Comparison of Uniform DIF Effect Size Estimators Under the MIMIC and Rasch Models
Authors: Jin Ying , Myers Nicholas D. , Ahn Soyeon , Penfield Randall D.
Published: October 2012

The Rasch model, a member of a larger group of models within item response theory, is widely used in empirical studies. Detection of uniform differential item functioning (DIF) within the Rasch model typically employs null hypothesis testing with a concomitant consideration of effect size (e.g., signed area [SA]). Parametric equivalence between confirmatory factor analysis under the multiple indicators, multiple causes (MIMIC) model and the Rasch model has been established. Unlike the Rasch approach to DIF, however, the parallel MIMIC approach to DIF detection has relied exclusively on null hypothesis testing. This study derived an effect size estimator for DIF under the MIMIC model (MIMIC-ES) and then investigated the ability of MIMIC-ES to correctly estimate the magnitude of DIF as compared to the SA approach under the Rasch model (Rasch-ES) in a Monte Carlo study. Variables manipulated were sample size, mean ability difference, DIF size, number of DIF items, and item difficulty levels. Results indicated that MIMIC-ES performed well when there was no mean ability difference. When mean ability difference was present, MIMIC-ES became increasingly imprecise and unstable when the sample size was small for all DIF sizes and number of DIF items. MIMIC-ES outperformed Rasch-ES when the number of DIF items reached 30%.
Protected by Ethos in a Protracted Conflict? A Comparative Study among Israelis and Palestinians in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem
Authors: Lavi Iris , Canetti Daphna , Sharvit Keren , Bar-Tal Daniel , Hobfoll Stevan E.
Published: October 2012

Can endorsement of the ethos of conflict alter psychological effects of exposure to political violence? Israelis and Palestinians have been in a state of political and military turmoil for decades. We interviewed 781 Israelis and 1,196 Palestinians living in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. Using structural equation modeling, we found that among those with a weak adherence to ethos of conflict, exposure predicted higher levels of hatred. For Israelis with a weak adherence to ethos of conflict, exposure predicted higher psychological distress and fear. For Palestinians with weaker adherence to ethos of conflict, stronger exposure predicted stronger threat perceptions. Israelis and Palestinians with a strong adherence to the ethos showed steady and high levels of negative emotions and threat, regardless of exposure. These results indicate that ethos of conflict is a double-edged sword that both protects and protracts the conflict. Although it serves as an engine fueling the conflict, it also plays a meaningful role as an empowering force for people suffering the psychological burden of an ongoing conflict.
Benchmarking the Importance and Use of Labor Market Surveys by Certified Rehabilitation Counselors
Authors: Barros-Bailey Mary , Saunders Jodi L.
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this research was to benchmark the importance and use of labor market survey (LMS) among U.S. certified rehabilitation counselors (CRCs). A secondary post hoc analysis of data collected via the Rehabilitation Skills Inventory–Revised for the 2011 Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification job analysis resulted in importance and use ratings across 11 content items and 11 demographic variables. This research suggests that labor market analyses, of which LMS could be a component, were considered to be along a continuum of important or extremely important by CRCs and performed along a range of very infrequent to very frequent. Data suggest that those CRCs reporting the highest frequency of use of labor market analyses were older and male, possessed education in rehabilitation-orientated areas of study, had more than 20 years of post-CRC experience, were in the private/proprietary rehabilitation or private practice practitioner professional settings, and held the title of forensic/expert witness or rehabilitation consultant/specialist. For all survey items studied, employment setting and job title were found to be significant in the frequency of use of labor market analyses. Limitations, delimitations, and areas for further study were discussed.
Effect of EPDM as a compatibilizer on mechanical properties and morphology of PP/LDPE blends
Authors: Penava Nina Vranjes , Rek Vesna , Houra Ivona Fiamengo
Published: October 2012

Blends of polypropylene (PP) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with and without ethylene-propylene-diene (EPDM) terpolymer as a compatibilizer were studied. Mechanical properties were chosen to estimate the compatibilization efficiency of EPDM. The interactions between phases were valued through glass transition shifts in dynamic mechanical spectra, and morphology of the blends was obtained using scanning electron microscopy. Interfacial adhesion was improved by EPDM addition. Addition of EPDM to PP/LDPE blends improved mechanical properties, especially Izod impact strength in LDPE-rich blends and with higher EPDM content.
Chemical modifications of natural oils and examples of their usage for polyurethane synthesis
Authors: Datta Janusz , Głowińska Ewa
Published: October 2012

Natural oils have been used in the production of plastics for a long time. However, the number of studies dedicated to polyurethane research has shown an increase only recently. Usually, petrochemical components are used in polyurethane synthesis. Nowadays, there have been attempts made to replace polyols in polyurethanes with the modified oils and other natural raw materials. It is a promising and important scenario because the flexible segment of such polyurethanes can contain even up to 60 wt % of the novel ingredient. In the case of material evaluation for industry, one can additionally count on lowering the product price because natural oil is generally 2 to 3 times cheaper as compared to its synthetic equivalent. Oils most commonly used in industrial applications are soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, castor oil and tung oil. In this work the study results and the possibilities of applying natural oils in polyurethane synthesis are presented.
Effect of fumed silica nanoparticles on the proton conductivity of polyimide–phosphoric anhydride membranes
Authors: Sharmin Khurshida , Abdalla Mohamed A , Aglan Heshmat A
Published: October 2012

A series of aromatic polyimide–phosphoric anhydride composite membranes loaded with fumed silica (FS) nanoparticles were prepared from polyamic acid (PAA). First, the influence of the percentage loading of phosphoric anhydride (PA) on the proton conductivity of polyimide (PI) membranes was studied. The PA-PI film containing 45% of PA showed proton conductivity of 1.31 × 10−4 S/cm at 80°C, whereas the conductivity of neat PI films was 1.80 × 10−6 S/cm at room temperature. Next, the effects of the FS nanoparticles on the proton conductivity, the mechanical and thermal properties of the formulated PA-PI membranes were studied. Forty-five percent of the PA-PI membrane loaded with 1% FS (45% PA-PI/1% FS) showed an enhanced conductivity of 2.78 × 10−4 S/cm at 80°C when compared to the neat 45% PA-PI membrane. The tensile strength of the 45% PA-PI/1% FS nanocomposite membrane was comparable to the Nafion proton conductive membranes. The thermal analysis of 45% PA-PI/1% FS nanocomposite membranes showed that these membranes were thermally stable and suitable for high-temperature applications.
Managerial Skills and Attitude of MBA and Non-MBA Employees
Authors: Kang Lakhwinder Singh , Sharma Surinder
Published: October 2012

The present study is an attempt to assess the perceptions of the hiring managers about the managerial skills and attitude of the MBA employees in comparison to the non-MBA employees. A sample of 100 hiring managers, who have been involved in the placement of MBAs, was taken for the purpose of the study. The hiring managers have been found agreeing that employees with MBA degree are better in ‘communication skills’, ‘decision making’, ‘leadership qualities’, ‘handle job related tasks and responsibilities’, ‘learning’ and ‘adapting to changing situations’ than non-MBA employees. The hiring managers have also been found agreeing that MBA employees ‘demand higher pay’, ‘change jobs more frequently’, ‘are more authoritarian’, ‘have unrealistic expectations’, ‘are more loyal to their careers than to their jobs and organizations’ than non-MBA employees. The discriminant analytical approach has been applied to examine the impact of the ‘profile’ and ‘attributes’ examined in the study which clearly differentiate hiring managers who agree with the good managerial skills of MBAs and negative attitude of MBAs from those who disagree with these. In case of ‘profile’ the managers with MBA qualification and regarding the various attributes of MBAs considered in the present study; ‘MBAs are more adaptive to changing situations’ and ‘MBAs change jobs more frequently than non-MBA employees’ have been found evoking significant differences among hiring managers. The findings of the present study can be useful for various stakeholders like, monitoring agencies and education policy makers, faculty and governing bodies of various management institutes for developing required management skills and attitudes among the students.
The Influence of Cultural Identity and Perceived Barriers on College-Going Beliefs and Aspirations of Latino Youth in Emerging Immigrant Communities
Authors: Gonzalez Laura M. , Stein Gabriela L. , Huq Nadia
Published: October 2012

Emerging immigrant communities differ from established communities in terms of needs and available resources. Students in these emerging communities may still be acculturating to new contexts and establishing their ethnic identities, which may impact their ability to engage in planning for the future. The current study examines what impact these cultural identity variables, in addition to perceptions of barriers to college entrance, would have on educational aspirations and college-going self-efficacy beliefs of Latino adolescents. Findings from 171 middle- and high school Latino students from immigrant families indicated that public ethnic regard and resilience to barriers were positively associated with college-going self-efficacy, and Anglo orientation had a trend-level effect, while perceived barriers were negatively related to that outcome. Private ethnic regard and person-based barriers were negatively associated with educational aspirations. Generation status, gender, mother’s education, and age were control variables. Implications for research and practice are provided, focusing on perceived barriers and self-efficacy beliefs.
Retinyl palmitate–loaded poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles for the topical treatment of skin diseases
Authors: Errico Cesare , Goñi-de-Cerio Felipe , Alderighi Michele , Ferri Marcella , Suarez-Merino Blanca , Soroka Yoram , Frušić-Zlotkin Marina , Chiellini Federica
Published: October 2012

Nanoparticles were prepared with poly(lactide- co-glycolide), Pluronic F127, and phospholipids and loaded with retinyl palmitate. Morphology and physicochemical properties of these nanoparticles were determined by atomic force microscopy, light scattering, and zeta potential. The elasticity and deformability of the nanoparticles were correlated to Tg values measured by differential scanning calorimetry. The in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the nanosystems were determined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, cell membrane asymmetry, and Ames tests with BALB/3T3 mouse embryo fibroblasts and HaCaT human keratinocytes cell lines. The reactive oxygen species levels and cytokine production in response to the exposure of cells to these nanoparticles were investigated, as well as the penetration in human skin culture.
Development of composite films based on thermoplastic starch and cellulose microfibrils from Colombian agroindustrial wastes
Authors: Montoya Úrsula , Zuluaga Robin , Castro Cristina , Goyanes Silvia , Gañán Piedad
Published: October 2012

Composite materials are produced using thermoplastic starch reinforced with cellulose microfibrils. The cellulose microfibrils are isolated from two different sources and their reinforcement capacity was evaluated. Vegetable cellulose (VC) microfibrils are isolated from vascular bundles of banana rachis, while bacterial cellulose (BC) microfibrils are produced by Gluconacetobacter genus bacteria using pineapple peel juice as the culture media. For this study, both the materials were obtained from Colombian agroindustrial wastes. Composite films were characterized using different techniques, including mechanical tensile testing, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of different processing methods and cellulose microfibrils content in the composite material behavior. The results showed that the mechanical properties were increased when cellulose microfibrils were added before gelatinization. Significant increments in Young’s modulus and tensile strength of both VC and BC composites were obtained with respect to starch matrix.
Unintended Consequence of the Faith-Based Initiative
Authors: Sinha Jill Witmer
Published: October 2012

The faith-based initiative announced in 2001 was accompanied by media coverage, new funding mechanisms, and state-level policies requiring the inclusion of faith-based organizations (FBOs) in Requests for Proposals. This study examined 33 organizations’ expression of religious identity through (a) proportion of board and (b) staff who were coreligionist; (c) change in proportion of revenues from public sources; (d) strategies for seeking resources; and (e) religious elements in service provision, staff training, and board meeting procedures. Interview transcripts from the Faith and Organizations Project, annual reports, and financial information were examined. Analysis suggested four patterns (no change, increased government funding related to the faith-based initiative, strategies for seeking resources, and active preservation of religious identity). Four African American organizations received funding connected to the faith-based initiative and 14 utilized or preserved religious identity. Faith-based policies are discussed as inadvertently affirming organizational distinctiveness and religious identity among some faith-based organizations.
Design and research of a novel type of mechanical presses driven by three servo motors in parallel
Authors: Huang Xun , Ma Chunxiang , Wu Suxing , Wang Qian , Wang Zhibo , Gao Feng
Published: October 2012

A novel type of mechanical presses design driven by three servo motors in parallel is proposed to develop high stamping capacity based on the theory of generalized function sets, and then is improved to enhance its practicability in engineering practice. The inverse and forward kinematics analyses are conducted later. Based on the fuzzy probability theory, the computing method of fuzzy reliability of kinematic accuracy of slider is then obtained. Finally, with a set of optimized length parameters of the presses given, the fuzzy reliability is calculated, on the basis of which a typical deep-drawing process is simulated.