bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscular microRNA expressions in healthy and myopathic horses suffering from polysaccharide storage myopathy or recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis
Authors: BARREY E. , BONNAMY B. , BARREY E. J. , MATA X. , CHAFFAUX S. , GUERIN G.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small endogenous noncoding interfering RNA molecules (18–25 nucleotides) regarded as major regulators in eukaryotic gene expression. They play a role in developmental timing, cellular differentiation, signalling and apoptosis pathways. Because of the central function of miRNAs in the proliferation and differentiation of the myoblasts demonstrated in mouse and man, it is assumed that they could be present in equine muscles and their expression profile may be related to the muscle status.

Objective:To identify miRNA candidates in the muscles of control and affected horses suffering from polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) and recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (RER).

Methods:Muscle biopsies were collected in thegluteus mediusof horses allocated into 4 groups: French Trotters (3 control‐TF vs. 3 RER‐TF) and Norman Cob (5 control‐Cob vs. 9 PSSM‐Cob). Blood samples were collected for miRNA analysis. Total RNA were extracted and real time quantitative RT‐QPCR analysis were conducted using 10 miRNA assays (mir‐1‐23‐30‐133‐181‐188‐195‐206‐339‐375).

Results:All the miRNA candidates were significantly detected in the muscles and some in blood samples. Variance analysis revealed highly significant (P<0.0001) effects of the miRNA type, breed and pathology on the miRNA expression. A specific miRNA profile was related to each myopathy: a higher expression of mir‐1, 133, 23a, 30b, 195 and 339 in RER‐TF vs. control‐TF (P<0.05); a higher expression of mir‐195 in PSSM‐Cob vs. control‐Cob (P<0.05). The miRNA profile was different between breeds for mir‐181, 188 and 206 (P<0.05). The mir‐1, 133, 181, 195 and 206 were detected in blood of control‐Cob and PSSM‐Cob horses.

Conclusions:This first study about muscular miRNA profile in equine myopathies indicated that it is possible to discriminate pathological from control horses according to their miRNA profile. The RER miRNA profile was more specific and contrasted than the PSSM profile.
Effect of a 120 km endurance race on plasma and muscular neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase concentrations in horses
Authors: SERTEYN D. , SANDERSEN C. , LEJEUNE J.‐P. , De La REBIÈRE de POUYADE G. , CEUSTERS J. , MOUITHYS‐MICKALAD A. , NIESTEN A. , FRAIPONT A. , Van ERCK E. , GOACHET A. G. , ROBERT C. , LECLERC J. L. , VOTION D.‐M. , FRANCK T.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:Intense physical exercise can induce the degranulation of neutrophils leading to an increase in plasma concentration of the neutrophil marker enzymes myeloperoxidase (MPO) and elastase (ELT). These enzymes have pro‐oxidative and pro‐inflammatory properties and may play a role in the exercised‐induced muscular damage.

Objectives:To measure MPO and ELT concentrations in plasma and muscles of endurance horses and to correlate them to the extent of exercise‐induced muscular damage.

Methods:Seven endurance horses qualified on 120 km races were tested in this study. Neutrophil count, serum creatine kinase (CK), plasmatic and muscular MPO and ELT concentrations were measured before and 2 h after a 120 km endurance race.

Results:The race produced a significant increase of neutrophils, CK, and plasma MPO and ELT levels. A significant correlation was observed between the MPO and ELT values in plasma (r2= 0.92, P<0.01) and in muscles (r2= 0.89, P<0.01) while plasmatic concentrations of MPO and ELT were not significantly correlated to muscular ones. An increase of mean concentrations (± s.e.) of MPO (T0: 9.85 ± 3.9, T1: 228.9 ± 95.9 ng/mg proteins) and ELT (T0: 8.4 ± 2.4, T1: 74.5 ± 39.7 ng/mg proteins) in the muscles were observed after the race. Interestingly, the individual data showed large differences between the horses. Muscular MPO and ELT concentrations were significantly correlated to plasma CK levels. The coefficient of correlation (r2) was 0.69 (P<0.01) for MPO and 0.66 (P<0.01) for ELT, respectively.

Conclusions:Results underline the possible role of MPO and ELT in exercise‐induced muscular damage.

Potential relevance:Further studies should investigate the effect of exercise type and intensity, as well as the role of the training state on MPO and ELT involvement in muscular damage. The assessment of the intensity of exercise‐induced neutrophilic degranulation may have a potential role in the monitoring of the athletic career.
Effects of crude protein intake from forage‐only diets on muscle amino acids and glycogen levels in horses in training
Authors: ESSÉN‐GUSTAVSSON B. , CONNYSSON M. , JANSSON A.
Published: November 2010

Reasons for performing study:There is little information about the influence of crude protein (CP) intake on glycogen and free pool amino acid concentrations in the muscle of horses in training. High energy forage‐only diets may be an alternative to concentrate rich diets and may provide high levels of CP.

Objective:To study the effect of feeding 2 forage‐only diets, containing either high or moderate CP concentrations on glycogen and free pool amino acid concentrations in the muscle.

Materials and methods:Two high energy forage‐only diets based on high‐energy grass forage were fed for 23 days in a crossover design to 6 Standardbred horses in racing condition. One forage diet provided a high (HP) CP (16.6%) intake and the other diet provided recommended intake (RP) of CP (12.5%). At Day 19 a standardised treadmill test was performed to mimic a race. Blood samples were taken before, during and after (up to 90 min) the treadmill test and muscle biopsies (m. gluteus) were taken before and after exercise and after 90 min. Amino acids were analysed with a HPLC‐technique and glycogen with a fluorimetric method.

Results:A main effect of the HP diet was that muscle glycogen and leucine concentrations were higher compared to the RP diet. Branched chain amino acid concentrations in plasma remained higher during early recovery from exercise on the HP diet compared to the RP diet. Intense exercise caused a similar decrease in glycogen, aspartate and glutamate concentrations in muscle and increase in alanine concentration on both diets.

Conclusion:Feeding a forage‐only diet with a high CP intake increases glycogen and leucine concentrations in muscle of horses in training. This may be beneficial for muscle recovery following intensive exercise.
Simulation of Combustion and Thermal-Flow Inside a Petroleum Coke Rotary Calcining Kiln—Part I: Process Review and Modeling
Authors: Zhang Zexuan , Wang Ting
Published: November 2010

Calcined coke is an important material for making carbon anodes for smelting alumina to aluminum. Calcining is an energy intensive industry and a significant amount of heat is wasted in the calcining process. Efficiently managing this energy resource is tied to the profit margin and survivability of a calcining plant. To help improve the energy efficiency of the calcining process, a 3D computational model is developed to gain insight of the thermal-flow and combustion behavior in the calciner. Comprehensive models are employed to simulate the moving petcoke bed with moisture evaporation, devolatilization, and coke fines combustion with a conjugate radiation-convection-conduction calculation.
Simulation of Combustion and Thermal-Flow Inside a Petroleum Coke Rotary Calcining Kiln—Part II: Analysis of Effects of Tertiary Airflow and Rotation
Authors: Zhang Zexuan , Wang Ting
Published: November 2010

A computational model is established to simulate the combustion and thermal-flow behavior inside a petcoke rotary calcining kiln. The results show that peak temperature is located at the tertiary air zone and a cold region that exists between the natural gas combustion zone and the tertiary air zone causes the coke bed to lose heat to the gas stream. The cold tertiary air injections reduce the gas temperature inside the kiln, so preheating the tertiary air using extracted gas or other waste energy is essential to saving energy. The devolatilization rate and location have a pronounced effect on the simulated temperature distribution. As the calcining kiln rotates, the tertiary air injection nozzles will move relative to the coke bed and exert cyclic air-bed interactions. At zero angular position, the air injection nozzles are diametrically located away from the bed so the interactions between the tertiary air jets and the coke bed are minimal. As the kiln rotates to a 180 deg position, the stem of the air injection nozzles are actually buried inside the coke bed with the nozzles protruding outward from the bed. At this position, the tertiary air jets will provide a fresh layer of air just above the coke bed, and the interaction between the air flow and the coke bed becomes strong. The 45 deg rotational angle case shows a better calcination with a 100 K higher bed surface temperature at the discharge end compared with the rest of rotational angles. Without including the coke fines combustion and the coke bed, the lumped gas temperature for the rotational cases shows a peak temperature of 1400 K at Z/D=2, which is due to natural gas combustion; the lowest temperature is around 1075 K at two locations, Z/D=4 and 8. The exhaust gas temperature is approximately 1100 K. The insight gained from this study will be used to design innovative means to reduce natural gas consumption.
The Effectiveness of Ethanolic Extract ofAmaranthus tricolorL.: A Natural Hepatoprotective Agent
Authors: Al-Dosari Mohammed S.
Published: November 2010

The ethanolic extract of Amaranthus tricolor L. (ATE) leaves was tested for its efficacy against CCl4-induced liver toxicity in rats. The hepatoprotective activity of ATE was evaluated via measuring various liver toxicity parameters, the lipid profile, and a histopathological evaluation. A sleeping time determination study and an acute toxicity test were performed in mice. The results clearly showed that oral administration of ATE for three weeks significantly reduced the elevated levels of serum GOT, GPT, GGT, ALP, bilirubin, cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, TG, and MDA induced by CCl4. Moreover, ATE treatment was also found to significantly increase the activities of NP-SH and TP in liver tissue. These biochemical findings have been supported by the evaluation of the liver histopathology in rats. The prolongation of narcolepsy induced by pentobarbital was shortened significantly by the extract. The acute toxicity test showed that no morbidity or mortality was caused by the extract. The observed hepatoprotective effect appears to be due to the antioxidant properties of A. tricolor, which may pave the way to finding a new drug to be used for fighting liver diseases.
Protective Effects on Mitochondria and Anti-Aging Activity of Polysaccharides from Cultivated Fruiting Bodies ofCordyceps militaris
Authors: Li Xing-Tai , Li Hong-Cheng , Li Chun-Bin , Dou De-Qiang , Gao Ming-Bo
Published: November 2010

Cordyceps militaris (L.) Link is an entomopathogenic fungus parasitic to Lepidoptera larvae, and is widely used as a folk tonic or invigorant for longevity in China. Although C. militaris has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia, there is still a lack convincing evidence for its anti-aging activities. This study was performed to investigate the effects of polysaccharides from cultivated fruiting bodies of C. militaris (CMP) on mitochondrial injury, antioxidation and anti-aging activity. Fruiting bodies of C. militaris were cultivated artificially under optimized conditions. The spectrophotometric method was used to measure thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), mitochondrial swelling, and activities of scavenging superoxide anions in vitro. D-galactose (100 mg/kg/day) was injected subcutaneously into back of the neck of mice for 7 weeks to induce an aging model. The effects of CMP on the activities of catalase (CAT), surperoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and anti-hydroxyl radicals were assayed in vivo using commercial monitoring kits. The results showed that CMP could inhibit mitochondrial injury and swelling induced by Fe2+-L-Cysteine in a concentration- dependent manner and it also had a significant superoxide anion scavenging effect. Moreover, the activities of CAT, SOD, GPx and anti-hydroxyl radicals in mice liver were increased significantly by CMP. These results indicate that CMP protects mitochondria by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting mitochondrial swelling, and increasing the activities of antioxidases. Therefore, CMP may have pharmaceutical values for mitochondrial protection and anti-aging. CMP was the major bioactive component in C. militaris.
Protective Effects of Water Extract of Clam on Normal andCCl4-Induced Damage in Primary Cultured Rat Hepatocytes
Authors: Chi H.M. , Chou S.T. , Lin S.C. , Su Z.Y. , Sheen Lee-Yan
Published: November 2010

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of various concentrations and incubation times of water extract of clam (WEC) on glutathione, its antioxidant and the detoxification defense systems in normal and CCl4-induced oxidative damaged primary rat hepatocytes. This study showed that when the hepatocytes were treated with WEC(0.14 ~ 1.68 mg/ml), the intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels, GSH/GSSG ratio, and the activities of GSH-related enzymes (GPx, GRd, and GST) were higher than those in the control at 24 or 48 hour treatments. However, the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and microscopic observations did not differ from those of the control. Yet, when the hepatocytes were pretreated with various concentrations of WEC for 24 hours and then exposed to 5 mM carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for 1 hour, at concentrations of WEC between 0.42 ~ 1.68 mg/ml, the viabilities, intracellular GSH level, and activities of GST and GPx were significantly increased compared to those of the CCl4-treated control group ( p < 0.05). In conclusion, WEC could improve the viability and the capabilities of detoxification and antioxidation in hepatocytes by increasing the GSH level and the activities of GSH-related enzymes.
One-pot synthesis of meso-alkyl substituted isocorroles: the reaction of a triarylcorrole with Grignard reagent
Authors: Nardis Sara , Pomarico Giuseppe , Mandoj Federica , Fronczek Frank R. , Smith Kevin M. , Paolesse Roberto
Published: November 2010

The reaction of 5,10,15-tritolylcorrole with EtMgBr opens the way for novel functionalizations of the corrole ring. DDQ oxidation of the macrocycle, followed by addition of the Grignard reagent, led to the formation of 5- and 10-alkyl substituted isocorroles in satisfying yields. Together with the one-pot formation of these isocorrole isomers, the use of such a nucleophile evidenced the competitive reactivity of the macrocycle β-positions, leading to the formation of 2-bromo- and 3-bromo-5,10,15-tritolylcorrole. While the formation of these monobromocorrole derivatives is not unprecedented, this is the first time the isomers have been separated and fully characterized. Furthermore, the higher yields of the 2-substituted species highlight a useful regioselectivity for the substitution reaction.
An Approach to Applying Feedback Error Learning for Functional Electrical Stimulation Controller: Computer Simulation Tests of Wrist Joint Control
Authors: Watanabe Takashi , Fukushima Keisuke
Published: November 2010

Feedback error-learning (FEL) controller that consists of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller and an artificial neural network (ANN) had applicability to functional electrical stimulation (FES). Because of the integral (reset) windup, however, delay or overshoot sometimes occurred in feedback FES control, which was considered to cause inappropriate ANN learning and to limit the feasibility of the FEL controller for FES to controlling 1-DOF movements stimulating 2 muscles. In this paper, an FEL-FES controller was developed applying antireset windup (ARW) scheme that worked based on total controller output. The FEL-FES controller with the ARW was examined in controlling 2-DOF movements of the wrist joint stimulating 4 muscles through computer simulation. The developed FEL-FES controller was found to realize appropriately inverse dynamics model and to have a possibility of being used as an open-loop controller. The developed controller would be effective in multiple DOF movement control stimulating several muscles.
Microstructure and Corrosion Behavior of Ni-Alloy/CrN Nanolayered Coatings
Authors: Huang Hao-Hsiang , Wu Fan-Bean , Lee Jyh-Wei , Chang Li-Chun
Published: November 2010

The Ni-alloy/CrN nanolayered coatings, Ni-Al/CrN and Ni-P/CrN, were deposited on (100) silicon wafer and AISI 420 stainless steel substrates by dual-gun sputtering technique. The influences of the layer microstructure on corrosion behavior of the nanolayered thin films were investigated. The bilayer thickness was controlled approximately 10 nm with a total coating thickness of . The single-layer Ni-alloy and CrN coatings deposited at were also evaluated for comparison. Through phase identification, phases of Ni-P and Ni-Al compounds were observed in the single Ni-alloy layers. On the other hand, the nanolayered Ni-P/CrN and Ni-Al/CrN coatings showed an amorphous/nanocrystalline microstructure. The precipitation of Ni-Al and Ni-P intermetallic compounds was suppressed by the nanolayered configuration of Ni-alloy/CrN coatings. Through Tafel analysis, the and values ranged from –0.64 to –0.33 V and to  A/, respectively, were deduced for various coating assemblies. The corrosion mechanisms and related behaviors of the coatings were compared. The coatings with a nanolayered Ni-alloy/CrN configuration exhibited a superior corrosion resistance to single-layer alloy or nitride coatings.
Eighteen Insulin-like Growth Factor Pathway Genes, Circulating Levels of IGF-I and Its Binding Protein, and Risk of Prostate and Breast Cancer
Authors: Gu Fangyi , Schumacher Fredrick R. , Canzian Federico , Allen Naomi E. , Albanes Demetrius , Berg Christine D. , Berndt Sonja I. , Boeing Heiner , Bueno-de-Mesquita H. Bas , Buring Julie E. , Chabbert-Buffet Nathalie , Chanock Stephen J. , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Dumeaux Vanessa , Gaziano J. Michael , Giovannucci Edward L. , Haiman Christopher A. , Hankinson Susan E. , Hayes Richard B. , Henderson Brian E. , Hunter David J. , Hoover Robert N. , Johansson Mattias , Key Timothy J. , Khaw Kay-Tee , Kolonel Laurence N. , Lagiou Pagona , Lee I-Min , LeMarchand Loic , Lund Eiliv , Ma Jing , Onland-Moret N. Charlotte , Overvad Kim , Rodriguez Laudina , Sacerdote Carlotta , Sánchez Maria-José , Stampfer Meir J. , Stattin Pär , Stram Daniel O. , Thomas Gilles , Thun Michael J. , Tjønneland Anne , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Tumino Rosario , Virtamo Jarmo , Weinstein Stephanie J. , Willett Walter C. , Yeager Meredith , Zhang Shumin M. , Kaaks Rudolf , Riboli Elio , Ziegler Regina G. , Kraft Peter
Published: November 2010

Background: Circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and its main binding protein, IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), have been associated with risk of several types of cancer. Heritable factors explain up to 60% of the variation in IGF-I and IGFBP-3 in studies of adult twins.

Methods: We systematically examined common genetic variation in 18 genes in the IGF signaling pathway for associations with circulating levels of IGF-I and IGFBP-3. A total of 302 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were genotyped in >5,500 Caucasian men and 5,500 Caucasian women from the Breast and Prostate Cancer Cohort Consortium.

Results: After adjusting for multiple testing, SNPs in the IGF1 and SSTR5 genes were significantly associated with circulating IGF-I (P < 2.1 × 10−4); SNPs in the IGFBP3 and IGFALS genes were significantly associated with circulating IGFBP-3. Multi-SNP models explained R2 = 0.62% of the variation in circulating IGF-I and 3.9% of the variation in circulating IGFBP-3. We saw no significant association between these multi-SNP predictors of circulating IGF-I or IGFBP-3 and risk of prostate or breast cancers.

Conclusion: Common genetic variation in the IGF1 and SSTR5 genes seems to influence circulating IGF-I levels, and variation in IGFBP3 and IGFALS seems to influence circulating IGFBP-3. However, these variants explain only a small percentage of the variation in circulating IGF-I and IGFBP-3 in Caucasian men and women.

Impact: Further studies are needed to explore contributions from other genetic factors such as rare variants in these genes and variation outside of these genes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2877–87. ©2010 AACR.
Associations of Folate, Vitamin B12, Homocysteine, and Folate-Pathway Polymorphisms with Prostate-Specific Antigen Velocity in Men with Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Collin Simon M. , Metcalfe Chris , Refsum Helga , Lewis Sarah J. , Davey Smith George , Cox Angela , Davis Michael , Marsden Gemma , Johnston Carole , Lane J. Athene , Donovan Jenny L. , Neal David E. , Hamdy Freddie C. , Smith A. David , Martin Richard M.
Published: November 2010

Background: Vitamin B12, holo-haptocorrin, and the folate-pathway single-nucleotide polymorphisms MTR 2756A>G and SHMT1 1420C>T have been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. We investigated whether these and other elements of folate metabolism were associated with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) velocity (PSAV) as a proxy measure of prostate cancer progression in men with localized prostate cancer.

Methods: We measured plasma folate, B12, holo-haptocorrin, holo-transcobalamin, total transcobalamin, and total homocysteine at diagnosis in 424 men (ages 45-70 years) with localized prostate cancer in a U.K.-wide population-based cohort. Thirteen folate-pathway single-nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped for 311 of these men. Postdiagnosis PSAV (continuous measure and with a threshold set a priori at 2 ng/mL/y) was estimated from repeat PSA measurements.

Results: Median follow-up time was 2.5 (range, 0.8-5.6) years. Vitamin B12, holo-haptocorrin, holo-transcobalamin, total transcobalamin, and total homocysteine were not associated with postdiagnosis PSAV. Folate was associated with an increased risk of PSAV >2 ng/mL/y [odds ratio (OR) per unit increase in loge concentration, 1.57; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.98-2.51; P = 0.06]. MTRR 66A>G (rs1801394) was associated with a reduced risk (recessive model OR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.11-0.97; P = 0.04), and SHMT1 1420C>T (rs1979277) with an increased risk (per-allele OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.93-2.37; P = 0.09) of PSAV >2 ng/mL/y.

Conclusions: We found weak evidence that higher folate levels may be associated with faster progression of localized prostate cancer.

Impact: Long-term follow-up is needed to test associations with metastases and mortality, and the observed genetic effects require replication. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(11); 2833–8. ©2010 AACR.
A Multilayer Upper-Boundary Condition for Longwave Radiative Flux to Correct Temperature Biases in a Mesoscale Model
Authors: Cavallo Steven M. , Dudhia Jimy , Snyder Chris
Published: November 2010

An upper-level cold bias in potential temperature tendencies of 10 K day−1, strongest at the top of the model, is observed in Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model forecasts. The bias originates from the Rapid Radiative Transfer Model longwave radiation physics scheme and can be reduced substantially by 1) modifying the treatment within the scheme by adding a multilayer buffer between the model top and top of the atmosphere and 2) constraining stratospheric water vapor to remain within the estimated climatology in the stratosphere. These changes reduce the longwave heating rate bias at the model top to ±0.5 K day−1. Corresponding bias reductions are also seen, particularly near the tropopause.
“Where Else Would We Teach?”: Portraits of Two Teachers in the Rural South
Authors: Burton Megan , Johnson Amy Suzanne
Published: November 2010

In this article, the authors draw on narrative portraiture to inquire into the family, school, community, and teacher education experiences of two novice teachers who teach in schools located in two rural communities in the southeastern United States. The authors show how their university teacher education classes and field experiences neither addressed nor supported these teachers’ identities as rural teachers. In doing so, the authors highlight how these teachers desired to be connected personally and professionally to the communities in which they teach. From these narrative portraits, the authors argue that identity and relationship exist synergistically within these teachers’ lives and experiences. Drawing on such synergy is critical to attracting preservice teachers to and retaining novice teachers in schools within rural communities. Based on their interpretations, the authors offer suggestions for how teacher educators can better prepare preservice teachers who intend to teach within such schools.
Risk Assessment of Emerging Technologies and Post-Normal Science
Authors: Kastenhofer Karen
Published: November 2010

Post-Normal Science (PNS) as a theory links epistemology and governance. It not only focuses on problem situations where facts are uncertain, values in dispute, stakes high and decisions urgent, but also tries to develop epistemic approaches that allow for sound scientific answers. The following article addresses major epistemological challenges within a typical ‘‘wicked-problem situation’’, i.e., risk assessment of emerging technologies. Such challenges include (a) epistemological problems intrinsic to the task of proving the absence of risk, (b) problems related to the multi-sited production of evidence and the multitude of epistemic cultures involved, (c) the incompatibility of the various implicit objectives and (d) the complex actor-constellations, that shape not only the way scientific knowledge is translated into action, but also which kind of knowledge is produced and which experts are listened to. To illustrate and discuss these characteristics, the article draws on an empirical study of risk research in the fields of agri-biotechnology and telecommunication technology in Germany. It concludes that although some aspects of PNS are already part of current epistemic practices in these fields, a state of ‘‘functional post-normality’’ depends upon a meaningful co-evolution between post-normal science and post-normal governance that has not yet been achieved.
Mode of occurrence of traumatic head injuries in male patients with cluster headache or migraine: Is there a connection with lifestyle?
Authors: Lambru Giorgio , Castellini Paola , Manzoni Gian Camillo , Torelli Paola
Published: November 2010

Introduction: Our study objective was to investigate the mode of occurrence of traumatic head injury in episodic cluster headache and migraine patients.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 400 male patients, 200 with cluster headache (cases) and 200 with migraine (controls). We investigated the frequency and mode of occurrence of traumatic head injury and some lifestyle habits.

Results: The number of traumatic head injuries was significantly higher in cases than in controls (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.5–2.8). Cases were more often responsible for the head traumas (adjusted OR = 2.6; 95% CI = 1.3–4.9) and reported a significantly higher proportion of injuries during scuffles or brawls (OR = 6.5; 95% CI = 2.9–14.8). Compared with other cluster headache patients, cases responsible for traumatic head injuries were more frequently heavy alcohol ( p = .000), heavy tobacco ( p = .03) and heavy coffee consumers ( p = .003).

Conclusions: Cluster headache patients (a) had traumatic head injuries more frequently than migraineurs; and (b) were more often responsible for them, perhaps due to particular behaviours related to their lifestyles.
Graphic Truth: Some Hidden Realities of the Review Process
Authors: Ketchen David J. , Short Jeremy , Terrell Will
Published: November 2010

Much has been written about the review process, and many management scholars believe that they possess a thorough understanding of how journal submissions are vetted. The review process contains important and sometimes ugly truths, however, that are known by just a few participants. Specifically, editors observe — and endure — a variety of dysfunctional behaviors. Editors often discuss among themselves how such behaviors undermine the review process, but these problems are seldom revealed to others. This short graphic novel gives readers a peak behind the editorial curtain by illustrating a few hidden truths of the review process.
A novel adenovirus of Western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla)
Authors: Wevers Diana , Leendertz Fabian H , Scuda Nelly , Boesch Christophe , Robbins Martha M , Head Josephine , Ludwig Carsten , Kühn Joachim , Ehlers Bernhard
Published: November 2010

Adenoviruses (AdV) broadly infect vertebrate hosts including a variety of primates. We identified a novel AdV in the feces of captive gorillas by isolation in cell culture, electron microscopy and PCR. From the supernatants of infected cultures we amplified DNA polymerase (DPOL), preterminal protein (pTP) and hexon gene sequences with generic pan primate AdV PCR assays. The sequences in-between were amplified by long-distance PCRs of 2 - 10 kb length, resulting in a final sequence of 15.6 kb. Phylogenetic analysis placed the novel gorilla AdV into a cluster of primate AdVs belonging to the species Human adenovirus B (HAdV-B). Depending on the analyzed gene, its position within the cluster was variable. To further elucidate its origin, feces samples of wild gorillas were analyzed. AdV hexon sequences were detected which are indicative for three distinct and novel gorilla HAdV-B viruses, among them a virus nearly identical to the novel AdV isolated from captive gorillas. This shows that the discovered virus is a member of a group of HAdV-B viruses that naturally infect gorillas. The mixed phylogenetic clusters of gorilla, chimpanzee, bonobo and human AdVs within the HAdV-B species indicate that host switches may have been a component of the evolution of human and non-human primate HAdV-B viruses.
Pulmonary exposure to carbon black nanoparticles and vascular effects
Authors: Vesterdal Lise K , Folkmann Janne K , Jacobsen Nicklas R , Sheykhzade Majid , Wallin Håkan , Loft Steffen , Møller Peter
Published: November 2010

Background

Exposure to small size particulates is regarded as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

We exposed young and aged apolipoprotein E knockout mice (apoE

-/-
) to carbon black (Printex 90, 14 nm) by intratracheal instillation, with different dosing and timing, and measured vasomotor function, progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and 3-nitrotyrosine in blood vessels. The mRNA expression of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, HO-1, and MCP-1 was examined in lung tissue.

Results

Young apoE

-/-
mice exposed to two consecutive 0.5 mg/kg doses of carbon black exhibited lower acetylcholine-induced vasorelaxation in aorta segments mounted in myographs, whereas single doses of 0.05-2.7 mg/kg produced no such effects. The phenylephrine-dependent vasocontraction response was shifted toward a lower responsiveness in the mice exposed once to a low dose for 24 hours. No effects were seen on the progression of atherosclerotic plaques in the aged apoE

-/-
mice or on the expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 and the presence of 3-nitrotyrosine in the vascular tissue of either young or aged apoE

-/-
mice. The expression of MCP-1 mRNA was increased in the lungs of young apoE

-/-
mice exposed to 0.9-2.7 mg/kg carbon black for 24 hours and of aged apoE

-/-
mice exposed to two consecutive 0.5 mg/kg doses of carbon black seven and five weeks prior to sacrifice.

Conclusion

Exposure to nano-sized carbon black particles is associated with modest vasomotor impairment, which is associated neither with nitrosative stress nor with any obvious increases in the expression of cell adhesion proteins on endothelial cells or in plaque progression. Evidence of pulmonary inflammation was observed, but only in animals exposed to higher doses.
Phenotypic Study of Human Gingival Fibroblasts in a Medium Enriched With Platelet Lysate
Authors: Naveau Adrien , Lataillade Jean‐Jacques , Fournier Benjamin Philippe , Couty Ludovic , Prat Marie , Ferre François Côme , Gourven Muriel , Durand Eric , Coulomb Bernard , Lafont Antoine , Gogly Bruno
Published: November 2010

Background: The modulation abilities of gingival fibroblasts open new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of vascular diseases (e.g., aneurism) and irradiation burns. Culture media are classically supplemented with animal sera to provide nutriments. Unfortunately, because of their potential for interspecies transmission of microorganisms, these media are not used for cells destined for human transplantation. This preliminary phenotypic study aims to test a serum‐free (SF) culture medium for human gingival fibroblasts (hGF) supplemented with human platelet lysates (PLs) for rapid cell expansion.

Methods: An SF medium was first elaborated to compete with hGF proliferation in a reference medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum (BSmedium). Adhesion, proliferation, and doubling kinetics were run in the presence of PLs (SF+PL). Cytoskeletal proteins were analyzed and chromosomal abnormalities were evaluated by karyotype analyses. The SF+PL influence on secretion of molecules implied in tissue remodeling (i.e., matrix metalloproteinases [MMPs], their tissue inhibitors [TIMPs], and several growth factors) was studied.

Results: SF+PL increased the proliferation rate 1.5‐fold in a week compared to BSmedium. Cytoskeleton protein expression was similar in BSmedium and in SF+PL. Chromosomal abnormalities were rare in SF+PL. MMP‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐3, MMP‐7, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, and the growth factors interleukin‐1β and ‐4 and transforming growth factor‐β1 secretions were stable during the experiment. TIMP‐2 and interleukin‐6 were slightly decreased in SF+PL compared to BSmedium.

Conclusion: While waiting confirmation from a proteomic approach, this SF culture medium could allow a secured faster hGF proliferation adapted for human cell transplant therapy.
Inflammation and Genetic Risk Indicators for Early Periodontitis in Adults
Authors: Stashenko Philip , Van Dyke Thomas , Tully Patrice , Kent Ralph , Sonis Stephen , Tanner Anne C.R.
Published: November 2010

Background: This report is a further analysis of a study designed to determine clinical and microbial risk indicators for progressing periodontitis.

Methods: One hundred ninety subjects who were periodontally healthy or had early signs of periodontitis (age range: 20 to 40 years) were monitored clinically at 6‐month intervals followed by supragingival cleaning. At each visit, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and blood were collected for determination of interleukin (IL)‐1β content (in GCF) and IL‐1 genotype (in blood). Interproximal sites with a >1.5‐mm increase in clinical attachment over 18 months were considered disease active. Characteristics were compared between active and inactive subjects.

Results: IL‐1β levels in GCF increased with the severity of disease and correlated well with clinical signs of incipient disease. However, the IL‐1 genotype did not show any significant associations with disease or the extent of disease.

Conclusion: Indicators of inflammation may be important clinical determinants of future periodontal disease progression, but the IL‐1 genotype was not a risk indictor for early (slight) periodontitis as defined in this subject population.
Constitutional organization of the regional state in Spain
Authors: Perovic Bojana
Published: November 2010

The author explores distinctiveness of the regional state mostly in Spain as
third model of territorial organization. Unlike unitary and federal, regional
state is not wide-spread and broad accepted concept of vertical organization
although modern Spain and Italy represents examples of good practice. Having
in mind diversity of regional identities and strong cultural distinctiveness
in Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia and other areas, author is
wondering if any other model of territorial organization could be sustainable
in such socio-cultural environment. After the period of Franco?s
dictatorship, which had been trying to exterminate cultural and historical
particularities among Spanish nations, decentralization demands have become
more stronger resulting with the new constitution adopted in 1978. This act
has set the corner-stone of modern Spanish democracy based on Autonomous
Communities as specific forms of decentralized state and territorial
autonomy.
United States of America and the problem of Kosovo and Metohija
Authors: Manetovic Edislav , Miljus Brano
Published: November 2010

Since the break-up of SFRY, one of the key factors in the development of the
Kosovo issue has been the USA. Washington will keep on playing the crucial
role in further searching for a solution for this problem. Finding of a
compromise solution will require to identify and re-examine relevant national
interests and foreign policy objectives. The continuity of American interests
in Europe since 1989 and in Serbia since 1999, respectively, points to the
fact that in the foreseeable future, Washington will not change its three
basic goals and they are as follows: NATO enlargement, consolidation of
democratic political systems and legitimisation of humanitarian
interventions. The last goal has a priority - the independent Kosovo should
contribute to the legitimisation of the principle of humanitarian
interventions. Consequently, one can conclude that during the September
session of the United Nations General Assembly Washington will endeavour to
block opening of the talks on the status of Kosovo, while it will keep on
defending the unilateral secession of Pristina as a sui generis case.
Initiating of talks between Belgrade and Pristina demands the creation of a
striking, but also a specific and feasible idea that would be acceptable for
all relevant factors in the process. The frameworks of such an idea are given
in the conclusion of the paper.
Policies and measures for renewable energy sources and achievement of targets by 2020 in Croatia
Authors: Raguzin Igor , Vesligaj Davor , Jelavic Vladimir
Published: November 2010

This paper is considering set up a longer-term perspective and plan of
actions for the development of renewable energy infrastructure in Croatia in
accordance with the new Croatian Energy Sector Development Strategy. Overall
target till the year 2020 has been calculated in accordance with effort
sharing methodology used for Directive 2009/28/EC. The paper presents some
main existing policies and measures for achieving this ambitious target,
including feed-in tariffs, guarantees of origin, and greenhouse gas emissions
taxation. It is addressed the necessity for creating enabling environment for
promotion of renewable energy sources and gradually remove barriers for its
stronger penetration on the energy market.
Energy and environmental analysis of an open-loop ground-water heat pump system in an urban area
Authors: Baccino Giorgia , Lo Russo , Taddia Glenda , Verda Vittorio
Published: November 2010

In this paper a multidisciplinary methodology for analyzing the opportunities
for exploitation of open-loop groundwater heat pump is proposed. The approach
starts from a model for calculation of a time profile of thermal requirements
(heat and domestic hot water). This curve is then coupled with a model of the
control system in order to determine the heat pump operation, which includes
its energy performances (primary energy consumption) as well as profiles of
water discharge to the aquifer in terms of mass flow rate and temperature.
Then the thermo-fluid dynamics of the aquifer is performed in order to
determine the system impact on the environment as on possible other systems.
The application to a case study in the Piedmont region, in Italy, is
proposed. Energy analysis of the system shows that ground-water heat pumps
constitute an interesting option in areas with small housing density, where
there is not district heating. In comparison with typical heating/cooling
systems, environmental benefits are related with reduction in global
emissions. These benefits may be significantly enhanced using renewables as
the primary energy source to produce electricity. The analysis also shows
that possible issues related with the extension of the subsurface thermal
plume may arise in the case of massive utilization of this technology.
Ecological remediation of the Sostanj thermal power plant with respect to sustainable development of the Salek valley, Slovenia
Authors: Petkovsek Al , Policnik Helena , Ramsak Rudi , Mavec Marko , Pokorny Bostjan
Published: November 2010

The Salek valley used to be exposed to huge amounts of pollutants due to its
close vicinity to the largest Slovene thermal power plant of Sostanj (STPP).
Due to large emissions of SO2 and heavy metals as well as dumping of fly ash
negative effects on the environment appeared (e.g. forest decline in area
exposed to deposition of emission by the STPP, pollution of lake Velenje and
the river Paka). Therefore, several ecological remediation measures on the
STPP were implemented in the 1990s, and several research projects on reasons
and effects of forest decline and degradation of environment began as well. A
continuous and marked improving of the condition of both forest and
freshwater ecosystems (of lake Velenje and the river Paka) after the
installation of desulphurization devices on Units 4 and 5 of the STPP and
construction of a closed loop system for the ash transportation is emphasized
in the present paper.
CO emission reduction of a HRSG duct burner
Authors: Lezsovits Ferenc , Könczöl Sándor , Sztankó Krisztián
Published: November 2010

A heat-recovery steam generator was erected after a gas-turbine with a duct
burner into the district heat centre. After commissioning, the CO emissions
were found to be above the acceptable level specified in the initial
contract. The Department of Energy Engineering of the BME was asked for their
expert contribution in solving the problem of reducing these CO emissions.
This team investigated the factors that cause incomplete combustion: the
flue-gas outlet of the gas-turbine has significant swirl and rotation, the
diffuser in between the gas-turbine and heat-recovery steam generator is too
short and has a large cone angle, the velocity of flue-gas entering the duct
burner is greater than expected, and the outlet direction of the flammable
mixture from the injector of the duct burner was not optimal. After reducing
the flow swirl of flue-gas and modifying the nozzle of the duct burner as
suggested by the Department of Energy Engineering of the BME, CO emissions
have been reduced to an acceptable level. The method involves the application
of CFD modeling and studying images of the flames which proved to be very
informative.
Beyond Record Linkage: Longitudinal Analysis of Turn-of-the-century Interurban Swedish Migrants
Authors: Miller Roger , Thorvaldsen Gunnar
Published: November 2010

Much attention among computer-using historians has been focused on the intricacies of record linkage, with the aim of constructing life histories for selected population groups. Partly because efforts have been concentrated on linkage procedures, less work has been done on the development of methods for analyzing the resulting longitudinal data sets. This article presents methodological aspects of our work with a migration study based on longitudinal records from two Swedish historical databases. The quality and organization of the databases make record linkage much easier than is true of most cross-sectional population censuses. Thus, after briefly presenting record linkage procedures, we have chosen to focus instead on the issues raised by the ensuing analysis of the datasets. Of special interest from a computer user's standpoint, is the employment of the Open Data Base Connection (ODBC interface, allowing the statistical programs to read data directly from a relational data base. Also of interest, especially from an historian's perspective, is the set of procedures developed to analyze different types of life-course events.
Aboriginal history, narration and new media
Authors: Goodall Heather
Published: November 2010

‘Angledool Stories’ is an ongoing collaboration in public history between an academic and a community historian in a rural Australian indigenous community. The goal has been to investigate whether interactive multi-media offered a means to make oral history recordings, family photos and research materials more accessible to the communities within which such research had been originally undertaken. The research and drafting process has already demonstrated that decisions about the design of the CD-ROM cannot be limited to technical or aesthetic considerations. This paper analyses three aspects of that design process: interface design; oral narrative selection and editing; and image selection and contextualisation. Each of these has required a sensitivity to the continuing tensions arising from colonialism and racial conflict over land and civil rights in Australia. The design decisions have had to be taken at the intersection of the technical, the political and the analytical. An essential and creative ingredient in the design process has proven to be close and continuing consultation with the rural Aboriginal community, which has allowed the political aspects of design questions to become apparent andhas generated options for constructive approaches to their solution.
A Structured Method for the Recognition of Complex Historical Tables
Authors: Kliatskine Vitaly , Shchepin Eugene , Thorvaldsen Gunnar , Zingerman Konstantin , Lazarev Valery
Published: November 2010

In principle, printed source material should be made machine-readable with systems for Optical Character Recognition, rather than being typed once more. Offthe-shelf commercial OCR programs tend, however, to be inadequate for lists with a complex layout. The tax assessment lists that assess most nineteenth century farms in Norway, constitute one example among a series of valuable sources which can only be interpreted successfully with specially designed OCR software. This paper considers the problems involved in the recognition of material with a complex table structure, outlining a new algorithmic model based on ‘linked hierarchies’. Within the scope of this model, a variety of tables and layouts can be described and recognized. The ‘linked hierarchies’ model has been implemented in the ‘CRIPT’ OCR software system, which successfully reads tables with a complex structure from several different historical sources.