bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D analogs enhance the anticancer activity of 5-fluorouracil in an in vivomouse colon cancer model
Authors: Milczarek Magdalena , Psurski Mateusz , Kutner Andrzej , Wietrzyk Joanna
Published: June 2013

Background

Active vitamin D analogs that are less toxic than calcitriol can be useful in the combined treatment of patients suffering from colon cancer. In the present study we demonstrate, for the first time in anin vivomodel system, the biological effect of combined therapy using 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) along with vitamin D analog PRI-2191 (tacalcitol, 1,24-dihydroxyvitamin D3) or PRI-2205 (5,6-trans-isomer of calcipotriol) on colon cancer.

Methods

We investigated the influence of vitamin D analogs on the anticancer activity of 5-FU or capecitabine in the treatment of mice bearing MC38 mouse colon tumors implanted subcutaneously or orthotopically. The cell cycle distribution, E-cadherin expression and caspase 3/7 activityin vitrowere also evaluated.

Results

We observed that both PRI-2191 and PRI-2205 significantly enhanced the antitumor activity of 5-FU; but these results depend on the treatment regimen. Applying the optimal schedule of combined therapy we observed a significant decrease in tumor growth, metastasis and also a prolongation of the survival time of mice, in comparison with the administrations of 5-FU given alone. Both combinations indicated a synergistic effect and did not cause toxicity. Moreover, analogs applied after completed course of administration of 5-FU, prolonged the antitumor effect of the drug. Furthermore, when the prodrug of 5-FU, capecitabine, was used, potentiation of its activity was also observed.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that vitamin D analogs (especially PRI-2191) might be potentially applied to clinical use in order to enhance the anticancer effect of 5-FU and also prolong its activity against colon cancer. The activity of PRI-2191 is realized through stopping the cells in the G0/G1cell cycle phase and increasing the expression of E-cadherin.
Self-assembled peptide amphiphiles function as multivalent binder with increased hemagglutinin affinity
Authors: Hüttl Christine , Hettrich Cornelia , Miller Reinhard , Paulke Bernd-Reiner , Henklein Petra , Rawel Harshadrai , Bier Frank F
Published: June 2013

Background

A promising way in diagnostic and therapeutic applications is the development of peptide amphiphiles (PAs). Peptides with a palmitic acid alkylchain were designed and characterized to study the effect of the structure modifications on self-assembling capabilities and the multiple binding capacity to hemagglutinin (HA), the surface protein of influenza virus type A. The peptide amphiphiles consists of a hydrophilic headgroup with a biological functionality of the peptide sequence and a chemically conjugated hydrophobic tail. In solution they self-assemble easily to micelles with a hydrophobic core surrounded by a closely packed peptide-shell.

Results

In this study the effect of a multiple peptide binding partner to the receptor binding site of HA could be determined with surface plasmon resonance measurements. The applied modification of the peptides causes signal amplification in relationship to the unmodified peptide wherein the high constant specificity persists. The molecular assembly of the peptides was characterized by the determination of critical micelle concentration (CMC) with concentration of 10-5 M and the colloidal size distribution.

Conclusion

The modification of the physico-chemical parameters by producing peptide amphiphiles form monomeric structures which enhances the binding affinity and allows a better examination of the interaction with the virus surface protein hemagglutinin.
Protective effect of rutin on the antioxidant genes expression in hypercholestrolemic male Westar rat
Authors: Al-Rejaie Salem S , Aleisa Abdulaziz M , Sayed-Ahmed Mohamed M , AL-Shabanah Othman A , Abuohashish Hatem M , Ahmed Mohammed M , Al-Hosaini Khaled A , Hafez Mohamed M
Published: June 2013

Background

High-cholesterol diet (HCD) increases the oxidative stress in different tissues leading to many diseases. Rutin (RT) is a natural flavonoid (vitamin p), which possesses an antioxidant activity with protective potential. The present study aimed to examine the potential effects of rutin on hypercholesterolemia-induced hepatotoxicity in rat.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: GI) control (Rat chow), GII) Rutin (0.2% in rat chow), GIII) HCD (1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid in rat chow) and GIV) rutin (0.2%) + HCD.

Results

Rutin in combination with HCD induced a significant protective effect against the hepatotoxicity by reducing the plasma level of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The HCD (GII) showed a decrease in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and increase in glutathione S transferase α (GSTα), sulfiredoxin-1(Srx1), glutamate-cysteine ligase (GCL) and paraoxonase-1(PON-1) genes expression levels.

Conclusion

Treatment with rutin reversed all the altered genes induced by HCD nearly to the control levels. The present study concluded that the HCD feedings altered the expression levels of some genes involved in the oxidative stress pathway resulting in DNA damage and hepatotoxicity. Rutin have a hepatoprotective effect through the mechanism of enhancing the antioxidant effect via amelioration of oxidative stress genes.
Expression and role of PGP, BCRP, MRP1 and MRP3 in multidrug resistance of canine mammary cancer cells
Authors: Pawłowski Karol M , Mucha Joanna , Majchrzak Kinga , Motyl Tomasz , Król Magdalena
Published: June 2013

Background

In both women and female dogs, the most prevalent type of malignant neoplasm is the spontaneous mammary tumor. In dogs, half of these are malignant. The treatment of choice for the canine patients is surgical mastectomy. Unfortunately, it often fails in high-risk, locally invasive mammary tumors as of during the time of the surgery the micro-metastases are present. Moreover, there are neither large studies conducting to prove of the benefit from the chemotherapy in dogs nor established chemotherapy treatment protocols available. Additionally, the effectiveness of each individual chemotherapeutic agent and drug resistance of canine mammary cancer have not yet been characterized. That has become the aim of our study, to assess the expression of PGP, BCRP, MRP1 and MRP3 in canine mammary cancer cell lines and to investigate their role in cancer resistance to vinblastine, cisplatin and cyclophosphamide with using RNAi approach.

Results

The results suggested that in canine mammary cancer, the vinblastine efflux was mediated by PGP and MRP1 proteins, cisplatin efflux was mediated by all four examined efflux pumps (PGP, BCRP, MRP1 and MRP3), whereas cyclophosphamide resistance was related to BCRP activity. RNAi silencing of these efflux pumps significantly decreased IC50 doses of the examined drugs in canine mammary carcinoma cells.

Conclusions

Our results have indicated the treatment of cells involving use of the siRNA targeting efflux pumps could be a beneficial approach in the future.
Ultra high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for rapid analysis of trace organic contaminants in water
Authors: Anumol Tarun , Merel Sylvain , Clarke Bradley O , Snyder Shane A
Published: June 2013

Background

The widespread utilization of organic compounds in modern society and their dispersion through wastewater have resulted in extensive contamination of source and drinking waters. The vast majority of these compounds are not regulated in wastewater outfalls or in drinking water while trace amounts of certain compounds can impact aquatic wildlife. Hence it is prudent to monitor these contaminants in water sources until sufficient toxicological data relevant to humans becomes available. A method was developed for the analysis of 36 trace organic contaminants (TOrCs) including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, steroid hormones (androgens, progestins, and glucocorticoids), personal care products and polyfluorinated compounds (PFCs) using a single solid phase extraction (SPE) technique with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). The method was applied to a variety of water matrices to demonstrate method performance and reliability.

Results

UHPLC-MS/MS in both positive and negative electrospray ionization (ESI) modes was employed to achieve optimum sensitivity while reducing sample analysis time (<20 min) compared with previously published methods. The detection limits for most compounds was lower than 1.0 picogram on the column while reporting limits in water ranged from 0.1 to 15 ng/L based on the extraction of a 1 L sample and concentration to 1 mL. Recoveries in ultrapure water for most compounds were between 90-110%, while recoveries in surface water and wastewater were in the range of 39-121% and 38-141% respectively. The analytical method was successfully applied to analyze samples across several different water matrices including wastewater, groundwater, surface water and drinking water at different stages of the treatment. Among several compounds detected in wastewater, sucralose and TCPP showed the highest concentrations.

Conclusion

The proposed method is sensitive, rapid and robust; hence it can be used to analyze a large variety of trace organic compounds in different water matrixes.
Genome-wide expression profiling and functional characterization of SCA28 lymphoblastoid cell lines reveal impairment in cell growth and activation of apoptotic pathways
Authors: Mancini Cecilia , Roncaglia Paola , Brussino Alessandro , Stevanin Giovanni , Lo Buono Nicola , Krmac Helena , Maltecca Francesca , Gazzano Elena , Bartoletti Stella Anna , Calvaruso Maria Antonietta , Iommarini Luisa , Cagnoli Claudia , Forlani Sylvie , Le Ber Isabelle , Durr Alexandra , Brice Alexis , Ghigo Dario , Casari Giorgio , Porcelli Anna Maria , Funaro Ada , Gasparre Giuseppe , Gustincich Stefano , Brusco Alfredo
Published: June 2013

Background

SCA28 is an autosomal dominant ataxia associated with AFG3L2 gene mutations. We performed a whole genome expression profiling using lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) from four SCA28 patients and six unrelated healthy controls matched for sex and age.

Methods

Gene expression was evaluated with the Affymetrix GeneChip Human Genome U133A 2.0 Arrays and data were validated by real-time PCR.

Results

We found 66 genes whose expression was statistically different in SCA28 LCLs, 35 of which were up-regulated and 31 down-regulated. The differentially expressed genes were clustered in five functional categories: (1) regulation of cell proliferation; (2) regulation of programmed cell death; (3) response to oxidative stress; (4) cell adhesion, and (5) chemical homeostasis. To validate these data, we performed functional experiments that proved an impaired SCA28 LCLs growth compared to controls (p < 0.005), an increased number of cells in the G0/G1 phase (p < 0.001), and an increased mortality because of apoptosis (p < 0.05). We also showed that respiratory chain activity and reactive oxygen species levels was not altered, although lipid peroxidation in SCA28 LCLs was increased in basal conditions (p < 0.05). We did not detect mitochondrial DNA large deletions. An increase of TFAM, a crucial protein for mtDNA maintenance, and of DRP1, a key regulator of mitochondrial dynamic mechanism, suggested an alteration of fission/fusion pathways.

Conclusions

Whole genome expression profiling, performed on SCA28 LCLs, allowed us to identify five altered functional categories that characterize the SCA28 LCLs phenotype, the first reported in human cells to our knowledge.
“Post partum hemorrhage: causes and management”
Authors: Edhi Muhammad Muzzammil , Aslam Hafiz Muhammad , Naqvi Zehra , Hashmi Haleema
Published: June 2013

Background

Post partum hemorrhage is defined as blood loss of 500 ml or above. It is the most common cause of pre-mature mortality of women world wide. Our objective was to evaluate the most common etiology and method of management of Post partum Hemorrhage in a tertiary care hospital of Karachi.

Findings

It was a cross sectional study conducted at Liaquat National Hospital Karachi, during the period of July 2011 to May 2012. Review include mode of delivery, possible cause of postpartum hemorrhage, supportive, medical and surgical interventions. All the women admitted with post partum hemorrhage or develop PPH in hospital after delivery were included in our study. Bleeding disorder and use of anticoagulants were set as exclusion criteria. Diagnosis was made on the basis of blood loss assessment which was made via subjective and objective evaluation.

During the targeted months, out of total 1493 deliveries (26/1493 = 1.741%) 26 cases of post partum hemorrhage were reported with a mean age of 26.153 ± 7.37. No deaths were reported and all cases were referred and unbooked cases. All Patients were conscious, tachycardiac and hypotensive. Most of the women were suffering from hemorrhage during or after the birth of their 1st child. Primary post partum hemorrhage emerge as the most common type of post partum hemorrhage and uterine atony was detected as the most common cause of primary post partum hemorrhage. Retained products of conception was the most common cause of secondary post partum hemorrhage and hysterectomy was found to be the most frequent method of management of post partum hemorrhage.

Conclusion

This study highlights the existing variable practices for the management of postpartum hemorrhage. Hemorrhage associated morbidity and mortality can be prevented by critical judgment, early referral and resuscitation by attendants. Introduction of an evidence-based management model can potentially reduce the practice variability and improve the quality of care.
Guidelines for the management of people with foot health problems related to rheumatoid arthritis: a survey of their use in podiatry practice
Authors: Williams Anita E , Graham Andrea S , Davies Samantha , Bowen Catherine J
Published: June 2013

Background

In the last decade there has been a significant expansion in the body of knowledge on the effects of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on the foot and the management of these problems. Aligned with this has been the development of specialist clinical roles for podiatrists. However, despite being recommended by national guidelines, specialist podiatrists are scarce. In order to inform non‐specialist podiatrists of the appropriate interventions for these foot problems, management guidelines have been developed and disseminated by a group of specialist podiatrists. The aim of this survey was to investigate the use of these guidelines in clinical practice.

Method

Following ethical approval an online questionnaire survey was carried out. The questions were formulated from a focus group and comprised fixed response and open response questions. The survey underwent cognitive testing with two podiatrists before being finalised. An inductive approach using thematic analysis was used with the qualitative data.

Results

245 questionnaires were completed (128–non‐specialist working in the private sector, 101 non–specialists working in the NHS and 16 specialist podiatrists). Overall, 97% of the non‐specialists (n = 222) had not heard of the guidelines. The non‐specialists identified other influences on their management of people with RA, such as their undergraduate training and professional body branch meetings. Three main themes emerged from the qualitative data: (i) the benefits of the foot health management guidelines, (ii) the barriers to the use of guidelines generally and (iii) the features of useable clinical guidelines.

Conclusions

This study has revealed some crucial information about podiatrists' level of engagement with the foot health management guidelines and the use of guidelines in general. Specifically, the non‐specialist podiatrists were less likely to use the foot health management guidelines than the specialist podiatrists. The positive aspects were that for the specialist practitioners, the guidelines helped them to identify their professional development needs and for the few non‐specialists that did use them, they enabled appropriate referral to the rheumatology team for foot health management. The barriers to their use included a lack of understanding of the risk associated with managing people with RA and that guidelines can be too long and detailed for use in clinical practice. Suggestions are made for improving the implementation of foot health guidelines.
Evaluation of Human Papillomavirus Antibodies and Risk of Subsequent Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Kreimer Aimée R. , Johansson Mattias , Waterboer Tim , Kaaks Rudolf , Chang-Claude Jenny , Drogen Dagmar , Tjønneland Anne , Overvad Kim , Quirós J. Ramón , González Carlos A. , Sánchez Maria José , Larrañaga Nerea , Navarro Carmen , Barricarte Aurelio , Travis Ruth C. , Khaw Kay-Tee , Wareham Nick , Trichopoulou Antonia , Lagiou Pagona , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Peeters Petra H.M. , Panico Salvatore , Masala Giovanna , Grioni Sara , Tumino Rosario , Vineis Paolo , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Laurell Göran , Hallmans Göran , Manjer Jonas , Ekström Johanna , Skeie Guri , Lund Eiliv , Weiderpass Elisabete , Ferrari Pietro , Byrnes Graham , Romieu Isabelle , Riboli Elio , Hildesheim Allan , Boeing Heiner , Pawlita Michael , Brennan Paul
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) infection is causing an increasing number of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States and Europe. The aim of our study was to investigate whether HPV antibodies are associated with head and neck cancer risk when measured in prediagnostic sera.

Methods

We identified 638 participants with incident head and neck cancers (patients; 180 oral cancers, 135 oropharynx cancers, and 247 hypopharynx/larynx cancers) and 300 patients with esophageal cancers as well as 1,599 comparable controls from within the European Prospective Investigation Into Cancer and Nutrition cohort. Prediagnostic plasma samples from patients (collected, on average, 6 years before diagnosis) and control participants were analyzed for antibodies against multiple proteins of HPV16 as well as HPV6, HPV11, HPV18, HPV31, HPV33, HPV45, and HPV52. Odds ratios (ORs) of cancer and 95% CIs were calculated, adjusting for potential confounders. All-cause mortality was evaluated among patients using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

HPV16 E6 seropositivity was present in prediagnostic samples for 34.8% of patients with oropharyngeal cancer and 0.6% of controls (OR, 274; 95% CI, 110 to 681) but was not associated with other cancer sites. The increased risk of oropharyngeal cancer among HPV16 E6 seropositive participants was independent of time between blood collection and diagnosis and was observed more than 10 years before diagnosis. The all-cause mortality ratio among patients with oropharyngeal cancer was 0.30 (95% CI, 0.13 to 0.67), for patients who were HPV16 E6 seropositive compared with seronegative.

Conclusion

HPV16 E6 seropositivity was present more than 10 years before diagnosis of oropharyngeal cancers.
A dry extract of Phyllanthus niruri protects normal cells and induces apoptosis in human liver carcinoma cells
Authors: de Araújo Júnior Raimundo Fernandes , de Souza Tatiane Pereira , Pires Júlia Glória Lucatelli , Soares Luiz Alberto Lira , de Araújo Aurigena Antunes , Petrovick Pedro Ros , Mâcedo Helainy Daline Oliveira , de Sá Leitão Oliveira Ana Luiza Cabral , Guerra Gerlane Coelho Bernardo
Published: June 2013

The ability to induce apoptosis is an important marker for cytotoxic antitumor agents. Some natural compounds have been shown to modulate apoptosis pathways that are frequently blocked in human cancers, and therefore, these compounds provide novel opportunities for cancer drug development. Phyllanthus, a plant genus of the family Euphorbiaceae, exhibits multiple pharmacological actions. Of these, Phyllanthus niruri extracts exhibit significant antitumor activity, which is consistent with the traditional medicinal use of this plant. To examine the apoptotic effects of a spray-dried extract of P. niruri (SDEPN), human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2, Huh-7), colorectal carcinoma cells (Ht29) and keratinocytes (HaCaT) were exposed to the extract for 4, 8 and 24 h. Flow cytometry and caspase-3 immunostaining were used to detect apoptosis, while analysis of variance was applied to identify significant differences between groups ( P < 0.05). At all timepoints, the SDEPN induced significantly different cytotoxic effects for HepG2 and Huh-7 cells compared with control cells ( P < 0.001). In contrast, the SDEPN had a protective effect on HaCaT cells compared with control cells at all timepoints ( P < 0.001). In caspase-3 assays, activation was detected after cell death was induced in Huh-7 and HepG2 cancer cells by the SDEPN. In combination, these results indicate that the SDEPN is selectively toxic towards cancer cell lines, yet is protective towards normal cells.
Serum metabolic variables associated with impaired glucose tolerance induced by high-fat-high-cholesterol diet in Macaca mulatta
Authors: Li Xinli , Chen Younan , Liu Jingping , Yang Guang , Zhao Jiuming , Liao Guangneng , Shi Meimei , Yuan Yujia , He Sirong , Lu Yanrong , Cheng Jingqiu
Published: June 2013

Dyslipidemia caused by ‘Western-diet pattern’ is a strong risk factor for the onset of diabetes. This study aimed to disclose the relationship between the serum metabolite changes induced by habitual intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol (HFHC) diet and the development of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance through animal models of Macaca mulatta. Sixteen M. mulatta (six months old) were fed a control diet or a HFHC diet for 18 months. The diet effect on serum metabolic profiles was investigated by longitudinal research. Islet function was assessed by intravenous glucose tolerance and hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp test. Metabonomics were determined by 1 H proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Prolonged diet-dependent hyperlipidemia facilitated visceral fat accumulation in liver and skeletal muscle and disorder of glucose homeostasis in juvenile monkeys. Glucose disappearance rate ( KGlu) and insulin response to the glucose challenge effects in HFHC monkeys were significantly lower than in control monkeys. Otherwise, serum trimethylamine- N-oxide (TMAO), lactate and leucine/isoleucine were significantly higher in HFHC monkeys. Sphingomyelin and choline were the most positively correlated with KGlu ( R2 = 0.778), as well as negative correlation ( R2 = 0.64) with total cholesterol. The HFHC diet induced visceral fat, abnormal lipid metabolism and IGT prior to weight gain and body fat content increase in juvenile monkeys. We suggest that increased serum metabolites, such as TMAO, lactate, branched-chain amino acids and decreased sphingomyelin and choline, may serve as possible predictors for the evaluation of IGT and insulin resistance risks in the prediabetic state.
Characterization of the Pre-meiotic S Phase through Incorporation of BrdU during Spermatogenesis in the Rat
Authors: Muñoz-Velasco Israel , Ortíz Rosario , Echeverría Olga M. , Escobar María L. , Vázquez-Nin Gerardo H.
Published: June 2013

Seminiferous tubules in mammals have histological arrangements defined by the associations between somatic cells and germ cells. The processes of DNA synthesis in meiotic and mitotic cells have different features that are not easily distinguishable through morphological means. In order to characterize the pre-meiotic S phase, 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine (BrdU) was injected intraperitoneally into Wistar rats, which were sacrificed 30 min, 2 hr, and 24 hr after injection. We found three different labeling patterns. One of these patterns was characterized by a distribution of the label in the form of speckles, most of which were associated with the nuclear envelope (labeling type I). We suggest that this pattern is due to mitotic DNA synthesis of type B spermatogonia. Labeling type II consisted of labeled foci scattered throughout the nuclear volume, which can be correlated with preleptotenic cells in pre-meiotic DNA synthesis. After 24 hr of incorporation, a third type of labeling, characterized by large speckles, was found to be related to cells in the “bouquet” stage; that is, cells in transition between the leptotene and zygotene phases. Our results indicate that BrdU incorporation induces different labeling patterns in the mitotic and pre-meiotic S phases and thus makes it possible to identify somatic and germinal cells.
Association of Polymorphism rs198977 in Human Kallikrein-2 Gene (KLK2) with Susceptibility of Prostate Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Lishan
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To assess the association of polymorphism rs198977 in the human kallikrein-2 gene (KLK2) and risk of prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

Two investigators independently searched the PubMed, Elsevier, EMBASE, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for rs198977 and PCa were calculated in a fixed-effects model (the Mantel-Haenszel method) and a random-effects model (the DerSimonian and Laird method) when appropriate.

Results

Six studies met the inclusion criteria in this meta-analysis, which included 5859 PCa cases and 4867 controls. Overall, rs198977 was associated with the PCa risk (TT+CT vs. CC, pooled OR = 1.163, 95% CI = 1.076–1.258, P-value <0.0001). When stratified by ethnicity, significant association was observed in Caucasian samples under both allele comparison (T vs. C, pooled OR = 1.152, 95% CI = 1.079–1.229, P-value <0.0001) and dominant model (TT+CT vs. CC, pooled OR = 1.197, 95% CI = 1.104–1.297, P-value <0.0001). In the overall analysis, a comparably significant increase in the frequency of allele T for rs198977 was detected between cases and controls in Caucasian.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests that rs198977 of KLK2 was associated with susceptibility of PCa in Caucasian and the allele T might increase the risk of PCa in Caucasian.
The estrogen-related receptors and the adipocyte
Authors: Carnesecchi Julie , Vanacker Jean-Marc
Published: June 2013

The estrogen-related receptors (ERRα, β, and γ) are orphan members of the nuclear receptor superfamily. ERRα and γ are highly expressed in tissues displaying elevated energy demands and are involved in several aspects of energetic metabolism, which they regulate mostly in association with members of the PGC-1 coactivator family. These activities have mostly been documented in the liver, heart, or skeletal muscle. ERRα and γ are also highly expressed in adipocytes. Their precise roles in this cell type are less documented, although published data indicate that they contribute to cell differentiation as well as functionality. This review describes these activities.
On Cannon–Thurston maps for relatively hyperbolic groups
Authors: Matsuda Yoshifumi , Oguni Shin-ichi
Published: June 2013

Baker and Riley gave an inclusion of a free group of rank 3 in a hyperbolic group for which the Cannon–Thurston map is not well-defined. By using their result, we show that every non-elementary hyperbolic group can be included in some hyperbolic group in such a way that the Cannon–Thurston map is not well-defined. In fact we generalize their result to every non-elementary relatively hyperbolic group.
Modification of PET fabrics by hyperbranched polymer: a comparative study of artificial neural networks (ANN) and statistical approach
Authors: Hasanzadeh Mahdi , Moieni Tahereh , Moghadam Bentolhoda Hadavi
Published: June 2013

Hyperbranched polymers (HBPs) are highly branched, three-dimensional and polydisperse macromolecules and have been employed for modification of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) fabrics. The PET fabrics treatment process parameters, like HBP concentration, temperature and time, play a major role in treatment yield and dyeability of treated PET fabrics by acid dyes. Two different quantitative models, comprising response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN), were developed for predicting color strength (K/S value) of treated fabrics. The experiments were conducted based on central composite design (CCD) and a mathematical model was developed. A comparison of the predicted color strength using RSM and ANN was studied. The results obtained indicated that both RSM and ANN models show a very good relationship between the experimental and predicted response values. However, the ANN model shows more accurate results than the RSM model.
Stammdaten im Engineering
Authors: Sokolov Sergiy , Diedrich Christian
Published: June 2013

Unschärfen in der Datenbedeutung resultieren in subjektiver Dateninterpretation im Engineering. Somit sind Methoden gefragt, um Datensemantik sowie deren Entstehungsprozess abzulegen. Ein großes Anwendungspotenzial liegt hierbei im Einsatz von Datenkatalogen, die die Struktur dieser Daten, deren Eigenschaften und Bedeutung beschreiben. Die Festlegung deren Inhalte soll nach Kriterien der Allgemeingültigkeit und zeitlicher Stabilität erfolgen. In diesem Beitrag wird dafür das Stammdatenkonzept vorgeschlagen. Anschließend wird der Bezug von Stammdaten zu den Engineering-Vorgängen diskutiert.
Chữ Nôm and the Taming of the South
Authors: Phan John
Published: June 2013

The early modern Sino-Vietnamese dictionary known as the Chỉ Nam Ngọc Âm Giải Nghĩa contains two prefaces: one written in Literary Sinitic, using Sinitic characters, and one written in Vietnamese, using the “vernacular” script called Chữ Nôm. If read separately, each preface makes independent arguments in favor of “semantosyllabic” graphemes (characters that encode information for both meaning and pronunciation). However, when read as a single, continuous text, the prefaces combine to present a defense of Chữ Nôm—not as a vernacular alternative to Sinitic characters—but as a legitimate augmentation of the intellectual technology they represent, and thus capable of “taming” southern culture and intellectuality into literate civilization
Environmental factors that influence smoking habits of monozygotic and dizygotic twins
Authors: Bakkné Nagy Mónika , Tárnoki Dávid László , Tárnoki Ádám Domonkos
Published: June 2013

Introduction: Smoking habits are influenced by environmental (family, friends) and psychologic factors. Aim: To investigate environmental factors which influence the smoking habits of monozygotic and dizygotic twins. Method: 45 monozygotic and 23 dizygotic twin pairs (age 35±16 years) completed a questionnaire. Results: Maternal non-smoking decreases the risk of smoking of the twin children by 53%, while this effect accounts for 49% by the father. Dizygotic twins are more influenced by parents (70%) than monozygotics (31–36%). If the twin or non-twin sibling does not smoke, the risk that the twin individual starts smoking, is decreased by 86% both in monozygotic and dizygotic twins. If an individual smoking is present in the fraternity and he or she does not attempt to quit, the risk of smoking increases 8.3-fold. The role of fraternity is more important in males and youth. Conclusions: The parents’ and the siblings’ exemplary behaviour helps to avoid smoking initiation of young twins. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 978–984.
SiC monolithically integrated wavelength selector with 4 channels
Authors: Vieira M. , Vieira M. A. , Silva V. , Louro P. , Costa J.
Published: June 2013

In this paper we present a monolithically integrated wavelength selector based on a double pin/pin a-SiC:H integrated optical active filter that requires optical switches to select visible wavelengths. Red, green, blue and violet pulsed communication channels are transmitted together, each one with a specific bit sequence. The combined optical signal is analyzed by reading out the generated photocurrent, under violet (400 nm) background applied either from the front or the back side of the device. The front and back backgrounds acts as channel selectors that selects one or more channels by splitting portions of the input multi-channel optical signals across the front and the back photodiodes. The transfer characteristics effects due to changes irradiation side are presented. The relationship between the optical inputs and the corresponding digital output levels is established through a 16-element look-up table to perform the optoelectronic conversion.

Results show that the wavelength selector acts as a reconfigurable active filter that enhances the spectral sensitivity in a specific wavelength range and quenched it in the others, tuning a specific band. A binary weighted RGBV code that takes into account the specific weights assigned to each bit position is presented and establishes the optoelectronic functions.
Ipilimumab and Its Toxicities: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Fecher Leslie A. , Agarwala Sanjiv S. , Hodi F. Stephen , Weber Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2013

The treatment for metastatic melanoma has evolved significantly in the past few years. Ipilimumab, an immunotherapy, is now in mainstream oncology practice given that it has shown improved overall survival in randomized clinical trials. Other immune modulating agents, such as programmed death receptor-1 and programmed death receptor ligand-1 antibodies, are showing promise in early clinical trials. This manuscript will review ipilimumab and its most common side effects. Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) are important to recognize early, and their presentation, timing of onset, and general recommendations for workup and management will be reviewed. Assembling a multidisciplinary team, as well as thorough education of the patient, is recommended to optimize patient care.
Using tree functional diversity to evaluate management impacts in a subtropical forest
Authors: Maeshiro R. , Kusumoto B. , Fujii S. , Shiono T. , Kubota Y.
Published: June 2013

The trait‐based approach has received much research attention as it provides a heuristic framework for evaluating the ecological impacts of anthropogenic activities on communities and ecosystems. In this study, functional diversity (or structure) measures, such as functional richness, functional evenness, functional divergence, and functional composition, were used to examine management impacts on subtropical forests on the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. Functional indices were compared in tandem with taxonomic diversity indices between three forest types with different management histories: intact old‐growth forests, secondary forests after clear‐cutting, and abandoned Pinus luchuensis plantations. Species diversity indices were not significantly different among the three forest types. In contrast, functional diversity indices were significantly different among intact forests and managed forests. Functional richness and functional evenness were significantly lower in secondary forests than in intact forests and P. luchuensis plantations. Functional divergence was significantly higher in secondary forests and P. luchuensis plantations than in intact forests. These differences suggest that management activities affected niche space and the patterns of niche differentiation among component species in the functional space of managed forests. Community weighted means for each functional trait were also different among the forest types. The managed forests had greater leaf thickness, leaf dry matter content and maximum height, and lower specific leaf area and leaf nitrogen concentration than intact forests. These differences in functional composition of traits suggested potential functional impacts. This study demonstrated the utilization of species functional traits and community functional structure as a tool of natural experiment for assessing impacts of forest management practices on woodland ecosystems. It was also suggested that logging activities that include large‐scale clear‐cutting or establishment of P. luchuensis plantations may be incompatible with the conservation of natural ecosystem properties in subtropical forests.
Design of a Regular Expression Matching System Based on Network on Chip
Authors: Cui Linhai , Qin Yusen , Kong Fanyang , Yu Kaihong
Published: June 2013

This paper presents an efficient method for Regular Expression Matching (REM) by reusing Intellectual Property
(IP) cores in a new architecture of Network on Chip (NoC). The method is to design a reusable IP core which consists
of many engine cells for REM and to implement each engine cell on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) as a prototype.
To make Finite State Machine (FSM) simpler, a new approach for partitioning a regular expression into several
smaller parts is proposed. Each part of a regular expression was matched by an engine cell during matching, and each engine
cell communicates with others by routers on a NoC topology. The proposed NoC architecture is a general-purpose
design which is suitable for different rule libraries in deep packet inspection (DPI). It can deal with the problem that character
self-deplete made the correct regular expression matching missing. A way to use both logic cell and RAM available
on FPGA devices is described, and it can make it easier to change the rule library of regular expressions in the RAM. The
implementation of the NoC architecture by employing application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) is finally discussed.
Design and Evaluation of a Prompting Instrument to Support Learning within the Diffusion Simulation Game
Authors: Kwon Seolim , Lara Miguel , Enfield Jake , Frick Theodore
Published: June 2013

Conducting an iterative usability testing, a set of prompts used as a form of instructional support was developed in order to facilitate the comprehension of the diffusion of innovations theory (Rogers, 2003) in a simulation game called the Diffusion Simulation Game (DSG) (Molenda & Rice, 1979). The six subjects who participated in the study stated that the prompts were necessary in order to properly complete the game and that they would have done worse without them. However, the game performance and learning test scores did not correspond to the notion that the prompts significantly enhanced the learners' performances in the DSG or increased their knowledge of the underlying game theory. We assume that, as the DSG is a complex strategy game, the prompts may not be sufficient support by which to help learners. As such, it is possible that the game requires a different type of instructional support. We further speculate upon potential factors that could have affected the subjects' learning and performances. Several suggestions in regard to methods that could be used to improve the learning effectiveness of the game have been proposed.
Exploring Hybrid Instruction in Science: Using LMS for Contextual, Interdisciplinary Active Learning Enrichment
Authors: Quarless Duncan , Nieto Fernando
Published: June 2013

Learning Management Systems are instructional platforms that offer opportunities to address the development of core competencies across disciplines. The emergence of instructional models which place greater emphasis on core skill development in science education help to build interdisciplinary communities through curricular connectivity and complementary contextual learning applications. Herein we report on an interconnected core concept and skills approach combining the blended structured use of the Learning Management System (LMS) with a core curricular context for biology and chemistry content. This hybrid was applied to the entry chemistry course for science majors. The threefold interconnected biology-chemistry core concept umbrella areas are Chemical Identity/Matter Classification, the Mole Concept, and Energy. A web-facilitated pedagogy was utilized for the complementary entry-level biological science course. The results provide preliminary evidence of the potential of this instructional approach as a means to both build interdisciplinary community in STEM education and innovate instruction for improved learning outcomes.
The Forgotten Educational Needs of the House Staff: Training Internal Medicine Residents to Address End-of-Life Issues
Authors: Kerai Sara Moore , Wheeler Margot
Published: June 2013

An intervention was conducted, aimed at providing residents in internal medicine with communication skills to address end-of-life issues with patients. Residents participated in two 1-hour educational sessions designed to teach a communication protocol, enhance listening skills, and to provide practice in effective communication in a safe, small-group format. An anonymous on-line survey assessed the effectiveness of the intervention. Twenty-five residents completed the intervention. There was a trend toward increased comfort level in addressing end-of-life issues among residents who completed the intervention, versus a comparison group. Residents who completed the intervention reported that using the words “death” and “dying” with patients and families was an important teaching point.
Advocating and Educating for Spiritual Screening Assessment and Referrals to Chaplains
Authors: Piotrowski Linda F.
Published: June 2013

This article presents attempts to improve the quality of spiritual care offered to palliative care patients by educating nursing and other staff about spiritual screening with the goal of increasing referrals to a board certified chaplain. Attention to patients' spiritual identity and spiritual needs upon admission and throughout a hospitalization through either a formalized screening tool or provider awareness and sensitivity can assist patients in naming their needs, thus triggering a referral to a board certified chaplain or other spiritual counselor. Along with a spiritual care plan based upon assessment of spiritual needs and resources facilitates the healing process.
The “We Care” Program for Long-Term Care: Providing Family Members with Support following the Death of a Loved One
Authors: Vacha-Haase Tammi
Published: June 2013

Although bereavement programs in hospice and palliative care settings are known to produce positive outcomes for family members after the death of a loved one, currently there is a clear lack of services offered through long-term care (LTC) facilities, where older adults often reside prior to their death. The purpose of the present article is to present an initial bereavement program called We Care that focused on providing additional support for family members who experience a death of a loved one while in a LTC facility. Goals for the program include: 1) providing ongoing contact with the family for 1 year, and 2) offering a bereavement group. The program's model is explained, with highlights of obstacles experienced and suggestions for future programs.
Home Hospice Care and the Arts: Arts @ the Bedside
Authors: Wood Dayna
Published: June 2013

The arts, in their multiplicity of forms, have shown to be of benefit to patients in healthcare settings and their family members. Benefits can include expression, relaxation, and distraction. Arts @ the Bedside, an initiative of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York Hospice Care, sought to train hospice volunteers with an art background, or interest, to safely and confidently introduce the arts in a variety of mediums to hospice patients and families. Monthly trainings sessions, led by professional artists, were offered to volunteers. Volunteers who participated in six or more trainings received a “Certificate of Completion.” The number of volunteer art visits, session reports, and the impact on volunteers were recorded. Qualitative data suggests that patients, staff, and volunteers gain from the introduction of the arts in home hospice care.
Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel benzo[b]xanthone derivatives as potential antitumor agents
Authors: Luo Lin , Qin Jiang-Ke , Dai Zhi-Kai , Gao Shi-Hua
Published: June 2013

Nine novel aminoalkoxy substituted benzoxanthones (3a-3i) were synthesized.
Their antitumor activities were evaluated in five human solid tumor cell
lines including Hep-G2, BEL-7402, HeLa, MGC-803 and CNE by MTT method. The
results showed that most of the compounds displayed moderate to good
inhibitory activities on the tested cancer cell lines in vitro, among them
compounds 3a and 3h showed higher antitumor activity than other tested
compounds against most cell lines. The influence of two kinds of structural
factors including the terminal amino group and length of carbon spacers on
the anticancer activities were explored to discuss the preliminary
structure-activity relationships.
Right ventricular myxoma: A case report
Authors: Obrenovic-Kircanski Biljana , Mikic Aleksandar , Velinovic Milos , Bozic Vesna , Kovacevic-Kostic Natasa , Karan Radmila , Parapid Biljana , Djukic Petar , Savic Dragutin , Vranes Mile
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Myxomas arising from the right ventricle are extremely rare.
Case report. We presented a 71-year-old patient with worsening symptoms of
the exertional dyspnea and atypical chest pains lasting 6 months. A
transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram revealed a large, 2.6 x 2.2
cm, ovoid, well-circumscribed, echogenic mass in the right ventricle outflow
tract attached by small pedicle, partly obstructing the right ventricular
outflow tract and protruding through the pulmonic valve during systole. The
tumor was completely removed with the stalk and 5 mm of the surrounding
tissue. The histopathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of myxoma.
Conclusion. This case illustrates the usefulness of echocardiography both in
diagnosis of patients with atypical symptoms without family history and
associated syndromes (like Carney?s complex), and in surgical approach
planning. It also stresses the importance of surgical excision of tumor as
soon as possible following the diagnosis to prevent the complications such
are: valvular obstruction, pulmonary embolization and syncopes.
Breakfast Frequency and Development of Metabolic Risk
Authors: Odegaard Andrew O. , Jacobs David R. , Steffen Lyn M. , Van Horn Linda , Ludwig David S. , Pereira Mark A.
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

The relation of breakfast intake frequency to metabolic health is not well studied. The aim of this study was to examine breakfast intake frequency with incidence of metabolic conditions.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed an analysis of 3,598 participants from the community-based Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study who were free of diabetes in the year 7 examination when breakfast and dietary habits were assessed (1992–1993) and participated in at least one of the five subsequent follow-up examinations over 18 years.

RESULTS

Relative to those with infrequent breakfast consumption (0–3 days/week), participants who reported eating breakfast daily gained 1.9 kg less weight over 18 years (P = 0.001). In a Cox regression analysis, there was a stepwise decrease in risk across conditions in frequent breakfast consumers (4–6 days/week) and daily consumers. The results for incidence of abdominal obesity, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension remained significant after adjustment for baseline measures of adiposity (waist circumference or BMI) in daily breakfast consumers. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for daily breakfast consumption were as follows: abdominal obesity HR 0.78 (95% CI 0.66–0.91), obesity 0.80 (0.67–0.96), metabolic syndrome 0.82 (0.69–0.98), and hypertension 0.84 (0.72–0.99). For type 2 diabetes, the corresponding estimate was 0.81 (0.63–1.05), with a significant stepwise inverse association in black men and white men and women but no association in black women. There was no evidence of differential results for high versus low overall dietary quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily breakfast intake is strongly associated with reduced risk of a spectrum of metabolic conditions.