bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial-Resistant Strains of Clostridium difficile from North America
Authors: Tenover Fred C. , Tickler Isabella A. , Persing David H.
Published: March 2012

A total of 316 toxigenic
Clostridium difficile
clinical isolates of known PCR ribotypes from patients in North America were screened for resistance to clindamycin, metronidazole, moxifloxacin, and rifampin. Clindamycin resistance was observed among 16 different ribotypes, with ribotypes 017, 053, and 078 showing the highest proportions of resistance. All isolates were susceptible to metronidazole. Moxifloxacin resistance was present in >90% of PCR-ribotype 027 and 053 isolates but was less common among other ribotypes. Only 7.9% of the
C. difficile
isolates were resistant to rifampin. Multidrug resistance (clindamycin, moxifloxacin, and rifampin) was present in 27.5% of PCR-ribotype 027 strains but was rare in other ribotypes. These results suggest that antimicrobial resistance in North American isolates of
C. difficile
varies by strain type and parallels rates of resistance reported from Europe and the Far East.
Reduced Antituberculosis Drug Concentrations in HIV-Infected Patients Who Are Men or Have Low Weight: Implications for International Dosing Guidelines
Authors: McIlleron Helen , Rustomjee Roxana , Vahedi Mahnaz , Mthiyane Thuli , Denti Paolo , Connolly Catherine , Rida Wasima , Pym Alexander , Smith Peter J. , Onyebujoh Philip C.
Published: March 2012

Reduced antituberculosis drug concentrations may contribute to unfavorable treatment outcomes among HIV-infected patients with more advanced immune suppression, and few studies have evaluated pharmacokinetics of the first-line antituberculosis drugs in such patients given fixed-dose combination tablets according to international guidelines using weight bands. In this study, pharmacokinetics were evaluated in 60 patients on 4 occasions during the first month of antituberculosis therapy. Multilevel linear mixed-effects regression analysis was used to examine the effects of age, sex, weight, drug dose/kilogram, CD4+lymphocyte count, treatment schedule (5 versus 7 days/week), and concurrent antiretrovirals (efavirenz plus lamivudine plus zidovudine) on the area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 12 h (AUC0-12) of the respective antituberculosis drugs and to compare AUC0-12s at day 8, day 15, and day 29 with the day 1 AUC0-12. Median (range) age, weight, and CD4+lymphocyte count were 32 (18 to 47) years, 55.2 (34.4 to 98.7) kg, and 252 (12 to 500)/μl. For every 10-kg increase in body weight, the predicted day 29 AUC0-12increased by 14.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.5, 20.8), 14.1% (95% CI, −0.7, 31.1), 6.1% (95% CI, 2.7, 9.6) and 6.0% (95% CI, 0.8, 11.3) for rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, respectively. Males had day 29 AUC0-12s 19.3% (95% CI, 3.6, 35.1) and 14.0% (95% CI, 5.6, 22.4) lower than females for rifampin and pyrazinamide, respectively. Level of immune suppression and concomitant antiretrovirals had little effect on the concentrations of the antituberculosis agents. As they had reduced drug concentrations, it is important to review treatment responses in patients in the lower weight bands and males to inform future treatment guidelines, and revision of doses in these patients should be considered.
Comparison of resident and mid-level provider productivity and patient satisfaction in an emergency department fast track
Authors: Jeanmonod Rebecca , DelCollo Jessica , Jeanmonod Donald , Dombchewsky Orest , Reiter Mark
Published: March 2012

Objective

To evaluate productivity of mid-level providers (MLPs) compared with emergency medicine (EM) resident physicians in an emergency department (ED) low acuity area, and to compare patient satisfaction when cared for by MLPs versus EM residents.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of EM resident physicians and MLPs in an ED low acuity area. The number of patients seen and relative value units (RVUs) generated per clinical hour worked were evaluated. A t test was used to compare resident and MLP productivity. Additionally, patients were prospectively surveyed to assess satisfaction, using survey items based on the Press-Ganey survey. Non-parametric statistics were used to analyse patient satisfaction scores.

Results

MLPs treated 2.21 patients per hour (CI ±0.09), while resident physicians treated 1.53 patients per hour (CI ±0.08). MLPs generated 4.01 RVUs per hour (CI ±0.18) while resident physicians generated 3.14 RVUs per hour (CI ±0.18). Resident physicians generated 2.07 RVUs per patient (CI ±0.08) while MLPs generated 1.82 RVUs per patient (CI ±0.03; p<0.001). Of the 201 completed satisfaction surveys, 126 patients were seen by MLPs and 75 were seen by residents. Overall patients were highly satisfied with their ED visit. There were no differences in any survey responses based on provider type or resident level of training.

Conclusion

In a low acuity area of the ED, MLPs treated more patients per hour and generated more RVUs per hour than EM resident physicians. However, resident physicians generated more RVUs per patient. Patient satisfaction did not differ.
Improvement of parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis in an adult using fish oil-based parenteral nutrition
Authors: Moyes Lisa H , Hamid Rizwana , Clutton Juliet , Oien Karin A , McKee Ruth F , Forrest Ewan H
Published: March 2012

Parenteral nutrition-associated cholestasis (PNAC) is a severe complication of parenteral nutrition. Standard feed preparations contain soybean and olive oil that are rich in ω-6 polyunsaturated fats, and which studies suggest can be hepatotoxic. Preparations containing fish oil, rich in ω-3 polyunsaturated fats, may be hepatoprotective and have been used in the critical care setting as immunotherapy. A case demonstrating dramatic improvement in liver function and overall clinical condition in an adult with PNAC and intestinal failure within 8 weeks of changing to a fish oil-based parenteral feed is reported. As far as is known, this is the first report of an adult patient whose parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease resolved after a parenteral nutrition lipid emulsion was changed to the fish oil-containing emulsion, SMOFlipid.
Supporting older people with pets in sheltered housing
Authors: Ormerod Elizabeth
Published: March 2012

While recent research demonstrates a plethora of health and social benefits associated with pet ownership, many older people in the UK are still denied the opportunity to keep a companion animal. Rules pertaining to pet keeping are often illogical, impermanent and inconsistently applied. Elizabeth Ormerod believes that veterinary practices can be influential in advising housing providers about the benefits of pets and offers advice on how to encourage them to adopt positive pet policies.
Surgical diseases of the genital tract in male dogs 2. Penis and prepuce
Authors: de la Puerta Benito , Baines Stephen
Published: March 2012

An article in the February issue of In Practice (volume 34, pages 58–65) described the diseases of the scrotum, testes and epididymides of dogs, and their surgical treatment. This article discusses the most common conditions affecting the penis and prepuce of dogs, and describes the surgical techniques used to manage these disorders. Diseases affecting the penis and prepuce are rare, and the surgical techniques used to treat them are more complicated than those outlined in Part 1 for the management of testicular or scrotal disease.
A modern approach to equine dentistry 3. Imaging
Authors: Tremaine Henry
Published: March 2012

This article, the third in a series of four to review recent developments in equine dentistry, describes the use of imaging to aid the diagnosis of dental and oral lesions in horses, and provides a pictorial guide to features that might be seen radiographically. Part 1, published in the January issue of In Practice (volume 34, pages 2–10), described the procedure for a routine dental examination in horses, while Part 2, published in the February issue (volume 34, pages 78–89), highlighted the common dental and oral lesions that may be seen in this species. Part 4 will consider the techniques available for the prevention and treatment of equine dental disease.
Backyard poultry 1. Husbandry and general management
Authors: Houghton‐Wallace Janice , Lister Stephen
Published: March 2012

‘Backyard poultry’ can cover anything from pampered exhibition birds to small egg‐laying flocks, as well as pet chickens, and is an expanding area of veterinary medicine. Clients will range from experienced keepers to complete novices, many of whom will not be served by commercial poultry veterinary surgeons and, hence, will turn to their local practitioner for help and advice about caring for their birds. This article, the first of two discussing the veterinary approach to backyard poultry, describes the key elements of husbandry and general management of small flocks. Part 2, to be published in the April issue of In Practice, will focus on the specifics of veterinary care and disease control of poultry, with particular emphasis on the management of those conditions most likely to be seen in practice.
Mycoplasma wenyoniiinfection in cattle
Authors: Strugnell Ben , McAuliffe Laura
Published: March 2012

In recent years, the number of reports describing a combination of clinical signs in cattle comprising pyrexia, hindlimb and/or udder oedema and prefemoral lymphadenopathy, consistently associated withMycoplasma wenyoniiinfection, has increased. However, infection does not always appear to result in these typical clinical signs, and the factors leading to their manifestation have still to be fully elucidated. This article analyses the available evidence and suggests some options for diagnosis and management.
Clinicopathological significance of podocalyxin and phosphorylated ezrin in uterine endometrioid adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yasuoka Hironao , Tsujimoto Masahiko , Inagaki Michiya , Kodama Rieko , Tsuji Hiromi , Iwahashi Yoshifumi , Mabuchi Yasushi , Ino Kazuhiko , Sanke Tokio , Nakamura Yasushi
Published: March 2012

Background

Podocalyxin is an anti-adhesive glycoprotein that has been associated with highly aggressive forms of cancers. Podocalyxin increases the migration and invasive properties of cancer cells through its interaction with ezrin, which undergoes an increase in phosphorylation through podocalyxin.

Aims

To study the roles of podocalyxin and phosphorylated ezrin (pEzrin) in uterine endometrioid adenocarcinoma (UEA).

Methods

Using immunohistochemisty the authors investigated the expression of podocalyxin and pEzrin along with some well-known markers of tumour aggressiveness including p53, oestrogen receptor and Ki-67 in UEA.

Results

Podocalyxin and pEzrin expression levels were positive in 36.1% (22 of 61 patients) and 50.8% (31 of 61 patients) of UEA cases, respectively. Further, podocalyxin expression was correlated with tumour grade (p=0.0001), FIGO stage (p=0.0062), p53 expression (p=0.0050) and Ki-67 index (p=0.0069). In addition, pEzrin expression was associated with FIGO stage (p=0.0231), p53 expression (p<0.0001) and Ki-67 index (p=0.0010). The expression of podocalyxin was also correlated with that of pEzrin (p=0.0102).

Conclusions

These results suggest that overexpression of podocalyxin and pEzrin may indicate a more aggressive phenotype; thus, evaluation of these proteins may be useful in prediction of disease progression in UEA cases.
Determination of serum aldosterone by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry: a liquid–liquid extraction method for the ABSCIEX API-5000 mass spectrometry system
Authors: Van Der Gugten Jessica Grace , Dubland Joshua , Liu Hua-Fen , Wang Alex , Joseph Christine , Holmes Daniel T
Published: March 2012

Aims

Accurate serum aldosterone determination is critical to the screening and diagnosis of primary aldosteronism, the localisation of aldosterone producing tumours, and the investigation of other disorders of the renin-angiotensin system. Mass spectrometry offers a means to overcome problems with method-dependent bias between competitive immunoassays for aldosterone. The authors have developed a simple, sensitive and precise liquid–liquid extraction aldosterone method for the ABSCIEX API-5000 liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system.

Methods

Using d7-aldosterone internal standard, 500 μl of sample is extracted with 2500 μl of methyl tertbutyl ether followed by dry-down, reconstitution and LC-MS/MS analysis in ESI negative mode. Method validation was undertaken using standard approaches and comparison made against a commercial radioimmunoassay. Accuracy was assessed using EQA material with assigned aldosterone concentrations.

Results

The assay was linear up to 3420 pmol/l (LOQ=50 pmol/l, LOD<22 pmol/l). Total CVs were ≤5% for concentrations ≥120 pmol/l and 10% at the LOQ. Mean accuracy was 98.5% against GCMS assigned material.

Conclusion

The authors present a precise, sensitive and simple aldosterone method suitable for routine clinical use that requires no solid phase extraction or specialised ion sources.
Troponin testing in the emergency department: a longitudinal study to assess the impact and sustainability of decision support strategies
Authors: Georgiou Andrew , Lam Mary , Allardice Jane , Hart Graeme K , Westbrook Johanna I
Published: March 2012

Aim

To evaluate the impact of decision support on the proportion of troponin I (cTnI) tests and associated costs over the period 2000–7 for patients presenting with chest pain in an emergency department (ED) setting.

Methods

A longitudinal study using linked data for patients presenting with chest pain from the ED and laboratory information systems of a metropolitan teaching hospital in Melbourne, Australia. The study period was divided into a pre-intervention period (2000–2), which contained no decision support; an initial post period (2003–4) after the introduction of a quality improvement initiative (utilising a paper-based guideline, education, audit and feedback) about cTnI test ordering and the incorporation of the guideline as a decision support feature of the computerised provider order entry system; followed by a post-modification period (2005–7) after the electronic decision support feature was modified to allow clinicians to bypass viewing the complete guideline.

Results

There was a significant fall in the proportion of cTnI tests ordered per patient presentation across the three periods—pre (2000–2), post (2003–4) and post-modification (2005–7)—from 7.3% to 4.1% and 2.8%, respectively. Analysis of costs showed significant reductions in the mean costs for cTnI tests per patient presentation from $A9.28 to $A8.54 and $A8.18, respectively, which amounted to a modest saving of $A13 251 since the initiation of decision support in 2003.

Conclusions

Decision support systems are often part of multifaceted implementations undertaken over time. They require continuous monitoring and modifications to ensure optimal performance.
Epidermal growth factor receptor mutations in malignant pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma
Authors: Enomoto Yasunori , Kasai Takahiko , Takeda Maiko , Takano Masato , Morita Kohei , Kadota Eiji , Iizuka Norishige , Maruyama Hiroshi , Haratake Joji , Kojima Yu , Ikeda Naoya , Inatsugi Naoki , Nonomura Akitaka
Published: March 2012

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene mutation at the kinase domain and EGFR gene amplification are reported to be predictors of the response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in lung cancer cases. In malignant mesothelioma (MM), the role of EGFR is less clear.

Methods

Thirty-eight MM specimens were submitted to EGFR mutation evaluation, and compared with the results of immunohistochemical staining and fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) analysis. DNA was extracted from paraffin blocks and PCR was performed to amplify exon regions 18–21 of the EGFR gene. Direct sequencing of the purified PCR products was performed.

Results

Five EGFR missense mutations were detected in six of the 38 patients (16%); two of these mutations were novel, two were originally detected in non-small cell lung carcinoma, and one resembled a location previously noted for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

Conclusion

As far as the authors are aware there has been no report of the EGFR mutation of MM in Japanese cases, but in this study EGFR missense mutations were detected in some cases. EGFR mutation results were not related to immunohistochemical and FISH analysis.
Association of risky alcohol consumption and accreditation in the ‘Good Sports’ alcohol management programme
Authors: Rowland Bosco , Allen Felicity , Toumbourou John W
Published: March 2012

Background

Involvement in community sports clubs is often associated with high levels of risky alcohol consumption; however, developing prevention-focused interventions in these settings can be complex. We examined the association of reduced risky alcohol consumption with the implementation of the Good Sports Programme (GSP)—a programme that accredits clubs in three stages, on the basis of their implementation of alcohol-related harm reduction strategies.

Methods

Using a cross section of football and cricket clubs, consumption was compared between clubs accredited at level 1, 2 or 3 of the GSP and clubs not accredited (92 clubs; 1924 individuals). Drinking above Australian guidelines for short-term risk (more than four standard drinks) on the last playing day prior to the survey and drinking at the club over the last 12 months at average levels exceeding short- and long-term risk (more than two standard drinks) guidelines were also examined.

Results

Multilevel modelling indicated that higher accreditation stage (0, 1, 2, 3) was associated with a 0.79 reduction in the odds of risky consumption on the playing day; a 0.85 reduction in the odds for short-term risky drinking, and a 0.86 reduction in long-term risky drinking.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that higher accreditation in the GSP is associated with reduced rates of risky alcohol use at a population level.
Opinions and practices of veterinarians and dairy farmers towards herd health management in the UK
Authors: Hall J. , Wapenaar W.
Published: March 2012

The objective was to compare farm veterinary surgeons' and dairy farmers' opinions on herd health plans and herd health and production management with the aim of discovering and better understanding the differences. Two comparable questionnaires, one for farm veterinarians and one for dairy farmers, were distributed throughout the UK. While listing the ‘major roles’ of the veterinarian on the farm, veterinarians considered ‘optimising milk production’, ‘decreasing overall cost’ and ‘being an independent adviser’ as important roles, but these were not seem to be perceived as such by the farmers. In addition, when presenting themselves to clients, veterinarians seemed to favour the ‘friend of the farmer’ approach; a much smaller proportion of farmers seemed to prefer this approach. The majority of farm respondents (98 of 121; 81 per cent) valued the discussions with their veterinarian, and it was apparent from the relatively small proportion of veterinarians instigating a discussion on farm (33 of 125; 26 per cent) that there is the opportunity for a more proactive approach from veterinarians. The study underlines that ‘demonstrating cost‐effectiveness’ is still a main concern for veterinarians and farmers and identifies areas that can be improved by more training and effective communication.
The Effects of Wet Cupping on Coronary Risk Factors in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Farahmand Syed Kazem , Gang Li Zhi , Saghebi Seyed Ahmad , Mohammadi Maryam , Mohammadi Shabnam , Mohammadi Ghazaleh , Ferns Gordan A. , Zadeh Majid Ghanbar , Razmgah Gholamreza Ghayour , Ramazani Zahra , Ghayour-Mobarhan Majid , Azizi Hoda
Published: March 2012

High serum cholesterol is an important risk factor for cardiovascular events. It has been reported that regular blood donation is associated with a reduction in serum cholesterol. This study aimed to determine the effects of wet cupping on lipid profiles and anthropometric characteristics of patients with metabolic syndrome. One hundred and thirty-six patients aged 18–65 years with metabolic syndrome were recruited to participate in this trial. Ten patients were excluded due to exclusion criteria. Patients (n = 126) were randomly assigned into the control (n = 63) and experimental (n = 63) groups. Patients in the experimental group were treated with wet cupping combined with dietary advice. The controls were given dietary advice only. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were assessed at baseline and at six and 12 weeks after treatment. The significance of the data was analyzed using a repeated measure ANOVA. The lipid profile status did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > 0.05) whereas there was a significant difference between the two time points within each group (p < 0.05). In addition, several anthropometric parameters improved in both groups, but this did not differ significantly between subject groups. Wet cupping does not have a significant effect on anthropometric or biochemical indices compared to the effect of dietary advice alone.
In Vitro Antioxidant and In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Ophioglossum thermale
Authors: Zhang Xue-Qiong , Kim Jin-Hwa , Lee Geun-Soo , Pyo Hyeong-Bae , Shin Eun-Young , Kim Eung-Gook , Zhang Yong-He
Published: March 2012

Antioxidant fractions from Ophioglossum thermale were extracted with five different polar solvents using a Soxhlet type extractor. The total phenolic content of the extracts was determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The ethyl acetate fraction of O. thermale was found to contain maximum phenolics. The dried fractions were screened for their antioxidant activity potential using in vitro model systems such as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) and lipid-peroxidation reduction at different concentrations. Results revealed that the EtOAc fraction exhibited the best performance in the DPPH assay, NBT assay and lipid peroxidation. All fractions showed more potent antioxidant capacity than green tea extract, a well-known antioxidant. Furthermore, the EtOAc fraction has the highest total phenolic content (475.65 mg of EGCG/g). In addition, the EtOAc fraction at 0.005% and 0.01% (g/100 ml) also significantly inhibited UVB irradiation-induced ROS generation in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). In a carrageenan-induced edema model, the EtOAc fraction showed an inhibitory effect (21.5%, p < 0.05) at 200 mg/kg (p.o.) after 300 min administration. Consequently, 3-O-methylquercetin (3MQ) was also isolated from the antioxidative EtOAc fraction. The data obtained using the above in vitro and in vivo tests suggest that the antioxidant activity of O. thermale and its anti-inflammatory effect on carrageenan-induced acute inflammation can be attributed to its ameliorating effect on oxidative damage, and thus it has great potential as a source for natural health products. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the antioxidant activity of different polar extracts from O. thermale.
Modified Yukmijihwangtang Suppresses the Production of Proinflammatory Cytokines in the Intravesical Hydrochloric Acid-Induced Cystitis Rat Model via the NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Lee Jeong-Won , Pak Sok Cheon , Jeon Songhee , Kim Dong-Il
Published: March 2012

Yukmijihwangtang (YM), a boiled extract of medicinal plants, has been prescribed for patients with kidney dysfunction in Korea; however, the mechanism underlying its therapeutic effects has not been fully elucidated. This study was conducted to evaluate the beneficial effects on bladder function by using modified YM (M-YM), which included Ulmi radicis cortex in addition to the six traditional medicinal plants in YM. Bladder irritation of the rats was caused by intravesical instillation of HCl . The animals were divided into six groups: sham group, cystitis-injury group with no treatment, cystitis-injury group with prednisolone treatment (5 mg/kg), and cystitis-injury with M-YM treatment (100, 200 or 500 mg/kg groups). Whole bladders were collected at day eight after injury. Samples were analyzed by histological and immunological examinations. An in vitro study was performed to determine whether M-YM extracts inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production and I κ B phosphorylation in a human uroepithelial cell line of T24 cells. Administration of M-YM notably improved bladder histological changes, and suppressed IL-6/TNF α production and I κ B phosphorylation in a rat model of chronic cystitis. M-YM also inhibited LPS-induced NO production and I κ B phosphorylation in T24 cells. This study suggests that administration of M-YM might be an applicable therapeutic traditional medicine for the treatment of interstitial cystitis.
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Antiproliferative Activities of Taxillus sutchuenensis
Authors: Liu Chia-Yu , Lin Ying-Chih , Deng Jeng-Shyan , Liao Jung-Chun , Peng Wen-Huang , Huang Guan-Jhong
Published: March 2012

Inflammation is related to several chronic diseases, including cancer and atherosclerosis. Taxillus sutchuenensis (Lecomte) Danser is a special folk medicinal plant in Taiwan. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities of the aqueouse-thanol extract from T. sutchuenensis (AETS) and its fractions. TEAC, DPPH radicals, total phenolic compounds, total flavonoid content, inhibition of NO production in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells, and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation were tested. Among all fractions, the ethyl-acetate (EA) fraction showed the highest TEAC and DPPH radical scavenging activities. The EA fraction also had the highest polyphenol and flavonoid content. The EA fractions also decreased LPS-induced NO production and the expression of iNOS and COX-2 in RAW264.7 cells. The antiproliferative activities of the aqueous/ethanol extract and fractions were studied in vitro using A549 cells, and the results were consistent with their antioxidant capacities. EA fractions had the highest antiproliferative activity with an IC50 of 454.38 ± 1.48 μg/ml. Quercetin also had antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities. Quercetin might be an important bioactive compound in T. sutchuenensis. The experimental data indicated that T. sutchuenensis is a potent antioxidant medicinal plant, and such efficacy may be mainly attributed to its polyphenolic compounds.
Gleditsia sinensis Thorn Extract Inhibits Proliferation and TNF-α-Induced MMP-9 Expression in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Lee Se-Jung , Park Sung-Soo , Kim Wun-Jae , Moon Sung-Kwon
Published: March 2012

The thorns of Gleditsia sinensis, which are extensively used as a medicinal herb in Asian countries, have been reported to exert various pharmacological effects. However, the anti-atherogenic effect of Gleditsia sinensis thorns has never been investigated. In the present study, we investigated the role and effect of the ethanol extract of Gleditsia sinensis thorns (EEGS) on cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). Treatment of VSMC with EEGS led to a significant decrease in cell growth by arresting cells in the G2/M-phase of the cell cycle, which was associated with up-regulated p21WAF1 levels and suppression of G2/M cell cycle regulators, cyclinB1, Cdc2 and Cdc25c. In addition, EEGS treatment led to the induction of extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2), p38 MAPK, and JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinases) activation. EEGS-induced p21WAF1 expression was blocked by treatment with the p38 MAPK-specific inhibitor SB203580. SB203580 also markedly recovered the inhibition of cell growth and decrease in cell cycle proteins in EEGS-treated VSMC. Moreover, EEGS inhibited matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression induced by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in VSMC. Finally, an electrophoresis mobility shift assay demonstrated that EEGS suppressed expression of transcription factor, nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), which are essential cis-elements for the MMP-9 promoter in TNF-α-treated VSMC. These results demonstrate that EEGS exerts a potent inhibitory effect on cell proliferation and MMP-9 expression in VSMC. These unexpected novel findings represent theoretical data for the preventive and therapeutic use of EEGS for the treatment of atherosclerosis disease.
Functional Role of Wogonin in Anti-Angiogenesis
Authors: Lin Chiu-Mei , Chen Yen-Hsu , Ong Jiann-Ruey , Ma Hon-Ping , Shyu Kou-Gi , Bai Kuan-Jen
Published: March 2012

Constitutive activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway occurs commonly in cancer cells and endothelial cells, and contributes to angiogenesis. Wogonin is a compound with many biologically relevant properties. We previously reported that wogonin blocked IL-6-induced angiogenesis through suppression of VEGF expression, an important regulator of angiogenesis. However, the pathway involved in the suppressive effect of wogonin on IL-6-induced VEGF has not been completely clarified. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms participating in the suppression of wogonin on IL-6-induced VEGF in vitro, focusing on IL-6R/JAK1/STAT3/VEGF pathway. Both STAT3 siRNA and wogonin treatment resulted in an abolition of the expression of VEGF. Moreover, our data revealed that wogonin treatment after STAT3 knock-down did not further suppress VEGF expression. The addition of IL-6R siRNA or wogonin resulted in a decrease in the expression level of the phosphorylated JAK1 protein. Furthermore, wogonin significantly decreased the amount of phosphorylated STAT3. Finally, by EMSA, wogonin suppressed IL-6-induced STAT3 binding activity in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, our results show that wogonin suppresses IL-6-induced VEGF by modulating the IL-6R/JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway. Based on this study, we suggest that wogonin may provide a new potential therapeutic option for treatment of IL-6-related pathological angiogenesis.
μ PARAMETER FROM DYNAMICAL REARRANGEMENT OF U(1) AND θ PARAMETER
Authors: KAWAMURA YOSHIHARU , MIURA TAKASHI
Published: March 2012

We study the generation of μ parameter from the dynamical rearrangement of local U(1) symmetry in a five-dimensional model and discuss phenomenological implications on the θ parameter, under the assumption that supersymmetry is broken by the Scherk–Schwarz mechanism.
CHARACTERIZING THE DEPOLARIZING QUANTUM CHANNEL IN TERMS OF RIEMANNIAN GEOMETRY
Authors: CAFARO CARLO , MANCINI STEFANO
Published: March 2012

We explore the conceptual usefulness of Riemannian geometric tools induced by the statistical concept of distinguishability in quantifying the effect of a depolarizing channel on quantum states. Specifically, we compare the geometries of the interior of undeformed and deformed Bloch spheres related to density operators on a two-dimensional Hilbert space. We show that randomization emerges geometrically through a smaller infinitesimal quantum line element on the deformed Bloch sphere while the uniform contraction manifests itself via a deformed set of geodesics where the spacial components of the deformed four-Bloch vector are simply the contracted versions of the undeformed Bloch vector components.
Solvent effect on the aggregation of amphiphilic phthalocyanines substituted by polyethyleneoxide
Authors: Kobayashi Midori , Kigawa Yuya , Satoh Keiichi , Sawada Kiyoshi
Published: March 2012

Metal-free and copper(II) tetra-β-polyethyleneoxide-substituted phthalocyanine derivatives, TDEO6-MPc, where polyethylene oxide derivative is hexaethyleneglycolmonododecylether (DEO6), were synthesized. Those compounds are soluble in both lipophilic and hydrophilic solvents. By taking advantage of this amphiphilic property, solvent effect on the aggregation of the phthalocyanine was studied by means of UV-vis absorption and fluorescence spectroscopies. Dimerization constants of TDEO6-MPc in non-coordinating solvents were determined by the concentration dependence of absorption spectra. Aggregation is suppressed by the increase in the E T (30) value (acceptor property) of solvents in non-coordinating solvents, whereas it is promoted by the increase in Donor Number (donor property) of solvent in coordinating solvents.
On struggle and competition in scientic fields
Authors: Goldreich Oded
Published: March 2012

What is the difference between struggling for achievements and competing for success? What is the effect of competitions on a scientic field? What are the specific implications on TOC? In this opinionated essay, I address these questions and related issues, while rooting the discussion in an appropriate theoretical framework.
Guest column
Authors: Moshkovitz Dana
Published: March 2012

In a projection PCP, also known as Label-Cover, the verifier makes two queries to the proof, and the answer to the first query determines at most one satisfying answer to the second query. Projection PCPs with low error probability are the basis of most NP-hardness of approximation results known today. In this essay we outline a construction of a projection PCP with low error and low blow-up. This yields sharp approximation thresholds and tight time lower bounds for approximation of a variety of problems, under an assumption on the time required for solving certain NP-hard problems exactly. The approach of the construction is algebraic, and it includes components such as low error, randomness-efficient low degree testing and composition of projection PCPs.
Computational geometry column 52
Authors: O'Rourke Joseph
Published: March 2012

Two art-gallery-like problems concerning transmitters in polygons are described, and several open problems posed.
Efficient vector-descriptor product exploiting time-memory trade-offs
Authors: Czekster Ricardo M. , Fernandes Paulo , Webber Thais
Published: March 2012

The description of large state spaces through stochastic structured modeling formalisms like stochastic Petri nets, stochastic automata networks and performance evaluation process algebra usually represent the infinitesimal generator of the underlying Markov chain as a Kronecker descriptor instead of a single large sparse matrix. The best known algorithms used to compute iterative solutions of such structured models are: the pure sparse solution approach, an algorithm that can be very time efficient, and almost always memory prohibitive; the Shuffle algorithm which performs the product of a descriptor by a probability vector with a very impressive memory efficiency; and a newer option that offers a trade-off between time and memory savings, the Split algorithm. This paper presents a comparison of these algorithms solving some examples of structured Kronecker represented models in order to numerically illustrate the gains achieved considering each model's characteristics.
Real-world performance modelling of enterprise service oriented architectures
Authors: Brebner Paul C.
Published: March 2012

Performance and Scalability Modelling of real-world enterprise systems is challenging due to both the complexity and size of the system being modelled, and constraints imposed by real projects such as the need to provide business value, deadlines, and the accessibility, relevance, quality and quantity of available documentation and performance data. Our hypothesis is that enterprise Service Oriented Architectures (SOAs) are more amenable to performance modelling as services are more granular, visible, and measurable. Since 2007 we have developed, trialled and refined a method with model-driven tool support for directly modelling the performance and scalability of increasingly complex Service Oriented Architectures. This paper reports an illustrative experience modelling a large-scale production SOA Enterprise Service Bus (ESB) upgrade, focussing on lessons learnt related to the complexity and constraints of modelling in the real-world. The key observations are that model construction is a type of theory formation and therefore: (1) Models (functioning as theories) can be simple but powerful enough to model large complex SOAs within the boundaries of real project constraints; (2) Model formation can be incremental, starting with a simple model (as simple theories are easier to refute) and refining as required; (3) Building multiple competing models can be a useful approach if information is inadequate or ambiguous, as the rival models can be tested with the aim of discarding incorrect ones; (4) If insufficient information is available to build a single "über" model to answer all the performance questions, it is often possible to build multiple specialised models for different purposes.
The design and development of the server efficiency rating tool (SERT) (abstracts only)
Authors: Lange Klaus-Dieter , Tricker Michael G.
Published: March 2012

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) almost 3% of all electricity consumed within the US in 2010 goes to running datacenters, with the majority of that powering servers and the associated air conditioning systems dedicated to eliminating the heat they produce. The EPA launched the ENERGY STARR Computer Server program in May 2009, intended to deliver information to better enable server purchasing decisions based on projected power consumption.

The Server Efficiency Rating Tool (SERT)" has been developed by the Standard Performance Evaluation Corporation (SPEC) SPECpower committee to address the EPA requirements for Version 2 of the ENERGY STAR server program. Unlike many tools sourced from the SPEC organization the SERT is not intended to be a benchmark, and for Version 2 does not offer a single score model. Instead it produces detailed information regarding the influence of CPU, memory, network and storage I/O configurations on overall server power consumption.

This paper describes the design and development of the SERT, including discussion of the collaborative nature of working with the EPA and the various industry stakeholders involved in the design, review and development process. Many of the core ideas behind SERT were derived from the SPECpower ssj2008 and other SPEC-developed benchmarks, and this paper illustrates where ideas and code were shared, as well as where new thinking resulted in entirely new solutions. It also includes thoughts for the future, as the ENERGY STAR server program continues to evolve and the SERT will evolve with it.
Energy-delay based provisioning for large datacenters
Authors: Sankar Sriram , Vaid Kushagra , Rogers Harry
Published: March 2012

It is challenging to determine the optimum number of servers required to provision for large online applications because of the conflicting mandates of (a) achieving peak performance needs and (b) minimizing unused datacenter power and capacity. Since Online Services application loads are unpredictable, datacenter operators often conservatively provision for maximum power utilization by characterizing workloads for peak load performance. In contrast, we aim to optimize the service capacity per total cost of ownership (TCO) of an Online Service datacenter deployment by characterizing the energy-delay properties of large scale datacenter workloads. We show that the peak load performance is not the energy efficient point of operation for most applications. We choose two industry-strength workloads (Internet Search and D-Process) and analyze their energy-delay behavior under varying loads. We then calculate the optimal operating point for the specific large-scale application and provision datacenter energy and capacity based on the energy-delay curves. In contrast to workload-based peak power provisioning, we show a 7% benefit in Service Capacity-per-TCOdollar for the energy-delay characterization methodology in our cost analysis for Online Services Applications.
Optimizing benchmark configurations for energy efficiency (abstracts only)
Authors: Poess Meikel , Nambiar Raghunath , Vaid Kushagra
Published: March 2012

Historically compute server performance has been the most important pillar in the evaluation of datacenter efficiency, which can be measured using a variety of industry standard benchmarks. With the introduction of industry standard servers, price-performance became the second pillar in the 'efficiency equation'. Today with an increased awareness in the industry for power optimized designs and corporate initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, data center efficiency needs to incorporate yet another key element in this equation: energy efficiency. Initial models based on 'name-plate' power consumption have been used to estimate energy efficiency while recently industry standard consortia like SPEC, TPC and SPC have started amalgating new energy metrics with their traditional performance metrics. TPC-Energy, enables the measuring and reporting of energy efficiency for transaction processing systems and decision support systems. In this paper we analyze TPC C benchmark configurations that may achieve leadership results in TPC-Energy using existing, more energy efficient technologies, such as solid states drives for storage subsystems, low power processors and high density DRAM in back end server and middle tier systems. Even though the study is based on TPC-C configurations these configuration optimizations are applicable to other benchmarks and production systems alike. We envision that the energy efficiency metrics and related optimizations to claim benchmark leadership will accelerate development and qualifications of energy efficient component and solutions.
Towards more effective utilization of computer systems (abstracts only)
Authors: Carlsson Niklas , Arlitt Martin
Published: March 2012

Globally, vast infrastructures of Information Technology (IT) equipment are deployed. Much of this infrastructure is under utilized to ensure acceptable response times. This results in less than ideal use of the capital investment used to purchase the IT equipment. To improve the sustainability of IT, we focus on increasing the effective utilization of computer systems. Our results show that computer systems running delay-sensitive (e.g., Web) workloads can be more effectively utilized while still maintaining adequate (e.g., mean or upper percentile) response times. In particular, these computer systems can simultaneously support delay-tolerant workloads, to increase the value of work done by a computer system over time.
MT-WAVE
Authors: Arkles Anthony , Makaroff Dwight
Published: March 2012

Modern web applications consist of many distinct services that collaborate to provide the full application functionality. To improve application performance, developers need to be able to identify the root cause of performance problems; identifying and fixing performance problems in these distributed, heterogeneous applications can be very difficult. As web applications become more complicated, the number of systems involved will continue to grow and full-system performance tuning will become more difficult.

We postulate that multi-tier profiling, starting at the web browser, is the appropriate way to solve this problem. Instrumenting from the web browser, as the user experiences it, ensures that we can tell what each service in the application is contributing to overall page-load time; thus, each tier must provide instrumentation data that developers can use to quickly identify the root cause of performance problems. We have built MT-WAVE, a system that integrates with the different tiers of a web application (including a browser extension) and collects light-weight instrumentation to a central location via X-Trace facilities. The collected data is presented with our visualization system that provides varying levels of detail.

To validate our approach, we performed case studies of two applications, both showing performance insight. In particular, we identified and fixed a significant and unintuitive bottleneck in an open-source project management application and verified caching behaviour in a cloud-hosted commercial product. While specific technologies are used in our case study, we believe that most web technologies in common use today would require straightforward modifications to be able to utilize MT-WAVE tracing facilities.

This tool is designed to be used by application developers and system administrators while testing new software, or after deployment when it becomes clear that existing performance is not meeting user needs.
A little language for rapidly constructing automated performance tests (abstracts only)
Authors: Dunning Shaun , Sawyer Darren
Published: March 2012

In order to effectively measure the performance of large scale data management solutions at NetApp, we use a fully automated infrastructure to execute end-to-end system performance tests. Both the software and user requirements of this infrastructure are complex: the system under test runs a multi-protocol, highly specialized operating system and the infrastructure serves a diverse audience of developers, analysts, and field engineers (including both sales and support). In this paper we describe our approach to rapidly constructing automated performance system tests by using a lightweight, little, or domain-specific language called SLSL in order to more effectively express test specifications.

Using a real world example, we illustrate the efficacy of SLSL in terms of its expressiveness, flexibility, and ease of use by showing a complex test configuration expressed with just a few language constructs. We also demonstrate how SLSL can be used in conjunction with our performance measurement lab to quickly deploy performance tests that yield highly repeatable measurements..
On robust wireless network optimization using network criticality
Authors: Tizghadam Ali , Leon-Garcia Alberto , Naser Hassan
Published: March 2012

Network criticality is a graph-theoretic metric that quantifies network robustness, and it was originally designed to capture the effect of environmental changes in core networks. This paper investigates the application of network criticality in designing robust power allocation and flow assignment algorithms for wireless networks. Achieving robust behavior in wireless networks is a challenging task due to constant changes in channel conditions and the interference. We consider network criticality as a natural robustness metric, and propose approaches to preserve the useful convexity properties of network criticality, while resolving issues related to the non-convexity of Shannon's capacity. The proposed optimization problems are applicable in all signalto-interference-plus-noise regimes.
Diffusion and cascading behavior in random networks
Authors: Lelarge Marc
Published: March 2012

The spread of new ideas, behaviors or technologies has been extensively studied using epidemic models. Here we consider a model of diffusion where the individuals' behavior is the result of a strategic choice. We study a simple coordination game with binary choice and give a condition for a new action to become widespread in a random network. We also analyze the possible equilibria of this game and identify conditions for the coexistence of both strategies in large connected sets. Finally we look at how can firms use social networks to promote their goals with limited information. Our results differ strongly from the one derived with epidemic models and show that connectivity plays an ambiguous role: while it allows the diffusion to spread, when the network is highly connected, the diffusion is also limited by high-degree nodes which are very stable.