bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uterine Development and Fertility Are Dependent on Gene Dosage of the Nuclear Receptor Coregulator REA
Authors: Park Sunghee , Yoon Sangyeon , Zhao Yuechao , Park Seong-Eun , Liao Lan , Xu Jianming , Lydon John P. , DeMayo Francesco J. , O'Malley Bert W. , Bagchi Milan K. , Katzenellenbogen Benita S.
Published: May 2012

Although the effectiveness of nuclear hormone-receptor complexes is known to depend on coregulator partner proteins, relatively little is known about the roles of coregulators in uterine development and early stages of pregnancy and implantation. Because conventional genetic deletion of the coregulator, repressor of estrogen receptor activity (REA), was embryonic lethal, we here study REA conditional knockout mice generated by cre-loxP recombination, in which REA function was abrogated only in progesterone receptor-expressing tissues, to define the roles of REA in postembryonic stages and in a tissue-specific manner. We find that REA has gene dose-dependent activity impacting uterine development and fertility. Conditional homozygous mutant (REAd/d) mice developed to adulthood and showed normal ovarian function, but females were infertile with severely compromised uterine development and function characterized by cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and altered adenogenesis (endometrial gland morphogenesis), resulting in failure of implantation and decidualization. By contrast, mice heterozygous for REA (REAf/d) had a very different phenotype, with estradiol treatment resulting in hyperstimulated, large uteri showing increased proliferation of luminal epithelial cells, and enhanced fluid imbibition associated with altered regulation of aquaporins. These REAf/d female mice showed a subfertility phenotype with reduced numbers and sizes of litters. These findings highlight that uterine development and regulation of estrogen receptor activities show a bimodal dependence on the gene dosage of REA. Optimal uterine development and functional activities require the normal gene dosage of REA, with partial or complete deletion resulting in hyperresponsiveness or underresponsiveness to hormone and subfertility or infertility, respectively.
Dickinson and the Ballad
Authors: Miller Cristanne
Published: May 2012

Emily Dickinson's metrical structures were as fully influenced by the ballad as by the hymn, and other elements of her style may also have been shaped by the huge popularity of ballads in the early nineteenth century in the United States. Understanding that the ballad is as important a model as hymns for Dickinson's short-lined verse undercuts interpretation of her chosen forms as either inherently rebellious against orthodoxies or devoutly meditative. Instead, Dickinson participated actively in secular as well as religious nineteenth-century popular verse culture. Attention to the ballad form and to ways ballads were read in the early nineteenth century illuminates both what is most extraordinary in Dickinson's verse and ways that it participates in the widespread development of popular forms. Her greatness emerges from her pleasure in, and experimentation with, her era's most popular and common forms as much as from the distinctiveness of her ear and imagination.
Ezra Pound’s Provincial Provence: Arnaut Daniel, Gavin Douglas, and the Vulgar Tongue
Authors: Katz Daniel
Published: May 2012

This essay examines Ezra Pound’s mobilizations of the figure of the troubadour poet Arnaut Daniel in the articulation of his own poetics, from The Spirit of Romance of 1910 through the 1930s. Arnaut emerges as a particularly fraught figure in Pound’s negotiations with Eliot, but also in relation to his reading of Dante’s defense of the vernacular, a question that Pound works through by way of the counterintuitive process of translation, with the goal of defending American usage against the linguistic regulatory norms of England. Through recourse to a lexicon derived from the Scottish poet Gavin Douglas in the later translations of Arnaut, Pound’s practice enters into dialogue with broader modernist questions concerning vernacular, regional, or nonstandard usage: what Robert Crawford calls the “provincial” modernist assault on England as cultural and linguistic center of the anglophone world. Pound’s concerns in this respect are read in relation to those of the Irish Samuel Beckett and above all the Scottish Hugh MacDiarmid, in their elaborations of a concept of the vernacular that they both deem “synthetic.” In all cases, translation or multilingualism becomes a central element in a regionally and socially marked vernacular capable of resisting nostalgic claims to cultural totality and the concomitant policing of authenticity.
Spontaneous spheroid budding from monolayers: a potential contribution to ovarian cancer dissemination
Authors: Pease Jillian C. , Brewer Molly , Tirnauer Jennifer S.
Published: May 2012

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynaecologic cancer, in large part because of its early dissemination and rapid development of chemotherapy resistance. Spheroids are clusters of tumor cells found in the peritoneal fluid of patients that are thought to promote this dissemination. Current models suggest that spheroids form by aggregation of single tumor cells shed from the primary tumor. Here, we demonstrate that spheroids can also form by budding directly as adherent clusters from a monolayer. Formation of budded spheroids correlated with expression of vimentin and lack of cortical E-cadherin. We also found that compared to cells grown in monolayers, cells grown as spheroids acquired progressive resistance to the chemotherapy drugs Paclitaxel and Cisplatin. This resistance could be completely reversed by dissociating the spheroids. Our observations highlight a previously unappreciated mode of spheroid formation that might have implications for tumor dissemination and chemotherapy resistance in patients, and suggest that this resistance might be reversed by spheroid dissociation.
Ethische Urteilskraft. Methodologische Erwägungen aus argumentationstheoretischer Perspektive
Authors: Dietrich Julia
Published: May 2012

This contribution is based on the observation that many day-to-day discussions as well as introductions to applied ethics emphasize the fact that in individual cases the formation of judgment is no longer open to theoretical analysis, and there is therefore a demand for “the faculty of judgment”. However, it remains unclear as to what is actually meant by “faculty of judgment” and what role ethical argumentation is then able to play in individual decisions. Wouldn’t a remark like “Everyone has to figure it out for themselves!” call into question a claim of ethical judgment for an intersubjectively shared rationality and commitment? This contribution will face the task of distinguishing various argumentative functions of the appeal to “the” faculty of judgment using a model of ethical argumentation. In each case, it will be demonstrated to what extent the sentence “Everyone has to figure it out for themselves!” can not only contribute to immunization, but also be legitimate in its own right. Further, an outline of how to respond to, qualify and invalidate this statement will be provided as well. The main goal of this paper is to show that “the” faculty of judgment does not describe “one” faculty at all but consists of several properties whose profile, demand and development should be examined and discussed discretely.
Prinzip und Urteilskraft in der Medizinethik
Authors: Salloch Sabine , Schildmann Jan , Vollmann Jochen
Published: May 2012

Diverging positions can be identified in applied ethics with regard to the justification, nature and application of ethical principles. In this article we will discuss the preconditions for establishing a relation between general principles and the particular situation which is to be evaluated in ethical judgment. The functioning of principles in applied ethics will be discussed on the exemplary basis of medical ethics. In a first step, current meta-ethical discussions on moral particularism will be analysed to see what aspects they may contribute to the side of the principle or the general in ethical judgment. In a next step, the side of the particular or situational will be illuminated against the background of current discussions in the context of the “empirical turn” in medical ethics. Based on these considerations, the importance of the power of judgment in medical ethics will be stressed and a model of productive and reflective judgment will be sketched.
Die Expressivität von Musik und ihre ethische Prägnanz
Authors: Bertinetto Alessandro
Published: May 2012

Peter Rinderle: Die Expressivität von Musik. Mentis Verlag, Paderborn 2010, 208 S.

Peter Rinderle: Musik, Emotionen, Ethik. Verlag Karl Alber, Freiburg 2011, 200 S.
Didaktik des E-Learning
Authors: Hambach Sybille
Published: May 2012

This paper addresses teaching and learning with digital media from an educational point of view. First we introduce E-Learning as an interdisciplinary subject which benefits from a variety of different disciplines. We than shortly discuss the contribution of didactics to the knowledge corpus and methodical canon of E-Learning. Nine basic didactic questions are used to describe specific aspects of education with digital media. The paper closes by deriving three main challenges, which are relevant for the further development of E-Learning.
Mobilität, Adaptivität und Kontextbewusstsein im E-Learning
Authors: Lucke Ulrike , Specht Marcus
Published: May 2012

Wireless networks and mobile devices are widely available. This allows not only for education independent from time and place. Also, adaption to individuals, places, and situations may be realized, and different scenarios are seamlessly converging.
Infant Outcomes After Maternal Antiretroviral Exposure in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Nielsen-Saines Karin , Komarow Lauren , Cu-Uvin Susan , Jourdain Gonzague , Klingman Karin L. , Shapiro David E. , Mofenson Lynne , Moran Laura , Campbell Thomas B. , Hitti Jane , Fiscus Susan , Currier Judith ,   for the ACTG 5190/PACTG 1054 Study Team
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

The impact of maternal antiretrovirals (ARVs) during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum on infant outcomes is unclear.

METHODS:

Infants born to HIV-infected mothers in ARV studies were followed for 18 months.

RESULTS:

Between June 2006 and December 2008, 236 infants enrolled from Africa (n = 36), India (n = 47), Thailand (n = 152), and Brazil (n = 1). Exposure to ARVs in pregnancy included ≥3 ARVs (10%), zidovudine/intrapartum ARV (81%), and intrapartum ARV (9%). There were 4 infant infections (1 in utero, 3 late postpartum) and 4 deaths with 1.8% mortality (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.1%–3.5%) and 96.4% HIV-1–free survival (95% CI, 94.0%–98.9%). Birth weight was ≥2.5 kg in 86%. In the first 6 months, Indian infants (nonbreastfed) had lowest median weights and lengths and smallest increases in growth. After 6 months, African infants had the lowest median weight and weight-for-age z scores. Infants exposed to highest maternal viral load had the lowest height and height-for-age z scores. Serious adverse events occurred in 38% of infants, did not differ by country, and correlated with less maternal ARV exposure. Clinical diagnoses were seen in 84% of Thai, 31% of African, and 9% of Indian infants. Congenital defects/inborn errors of metabolism were seen in 18 (7.6%) infants, of which 17 were Thai (11%: 95% CI, 6.7%–17.0%); none had first trimester ARV exposure.

CONCLUSIONS:

Infant follow-up in large international cohorts is feasible and provides important safety and HIV transmission data following maternal ARV exposure. Increased surveillance increases identification of congenital/inborn errors.
Low Rates of Influenza Immunization in Young Children Under Ontario’s Universal Influenza Immunization Program
Authors: Campitelli Michael A. , Inoue Miho , Calzavara Andrew J. , Kwong Jeffrey C. , Guttmann Astrid
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVES:

To determine physician-administered influenza vaccine coverage for children aged 6 to 23 months in a jurisdiction with a universal influenza immunization program during 2002–2009 and to describe predictors of vaccination.

METHODS:

By using hospital records, we identified all infants born alive in Ontario hospitals from April 2002 through March 2008. Immunization status was ascertained by linkage to physician billing data. Children were categorized as fully, partially, or not immunized depending on the number and timing of vaccines administered. Generalized linear mixed models determined the association between immunization status and infant, physician, and maternal characteristics.

RESULTS:

Influenza immunization was low for the first influenza season of the study period (1% fully immunized during the 2002–2003 season), increased for the following 3 seasons (7% to 9%), but then declined (4% to 6% fully immunized during the 2006–2007 to 2008–2009 seasons). Children with chronic conditions or low birth weight were more likely to be immunized. Maternal influenza immunization (adjusted odds ratio 4.31; 95% confidence interval 4.21–4.40), having a pediatrician as the primary care practitioner (adjusted odds ratio 1.85; 95% confidence interval 1.68–2.04), high visit rates, and better continuity of care were all significantly associated with full immunization, whereas measures of social disadvantage were associated with nonimmunization. Low birth weight infants discharged from neonatal care in the winter were more likely to be immunized.

CONCLUSIONS:

Influenza vaccine coverage among children aged 6 to 23 months in Ontario is low, despite a universal vaccination program and high primary care visit rates. Interventions to improve coverage should target both physicians and families.
The effects of penetration rate and strain softening on the vertical penetration resistance of seabed pipelines
Authors: CHATTERJEE S. , RANDOLPH M.F. , WHITE D.J.
Published: May 2012

Offshore pipelines in deep water are generally laid directly on the seabed, without any additional stabilisation measures. Design parameters that determine the soil resistance to lateral and axial motion of the pipeline are a function of the amount of vertical embedment. However, this latter quantity is difficult to estimate, partly because of the effects of soil heave around the pipeline as it penetrates, and partly because the soil shear strength depends on the strain rate and the degree of softening as the soil is sheared and remoulded. In this paper, a large deformation finite-element approach was adopted to study pipe–soil interaction during vertical embedment of pipelines on the seabed. The simple Tresca soil model was modified to incorporate the combined effects of strain rate and softening. The present large deformation finite-element method was validated by comparing the results with data from centrifuge model tests. A parametric study was then performed, varying the strain rate and softening parameters to explore their effects on penetration resistance. Simple expressions for penetration resistance, incorporating the effects of strain rate and softening, have been developed. The effects of soil strength vertical heterogeneity and buoyancy have also been explored.
Briefing: Reliability and optimised maintenance for sea defences
Authors: Gouldby Ben
Published: May 2012

This briefing article aims to provide a broader, explanatory commentary for non-specialists on the paper that follows in this issue on optimum repair intervals for sea defences.
Optimal dewatering of an excavation site
Authors: Demirbaş Korkut , Altan-Sakarya A. Burcu , Önder Halil
Published: May 2012

Optimal dewatering of an excavation area in an unconfined aquifer is studied using a combined optimisation–simulation approach. In combining a groundwater model with an optimisation model, a response matrix approach, generated on the basis of linear superposition, is used. ModMan, which calls Modflow repeatedly to generate a response matrix, is utilised to transform the groundwater management problem into a linear integer programming problem. A hypothetical dewatering area is considered to examine the effects of non-linearity due to pumpage. Two different iterative methods, revised unit rates and revised coefficients, are applied to account for the non-linear response of the unconfined aquifer to pumpage. The study shows that a modified linear optimisation procedure used in conjunction with Modflow provides a useful and computationally efficient tool for the analysis of groundwater dewatering problems in unconfined aquifers.
Using cross‐talk simulation to predict the performance of anaglyph 3‐D glasses
Authors: Woods Andrew J. , Harris Chris R.
Published: May 2012

Abstract— The anaglyph 3‐D method is a widely used technique for presenting stereoscopic 3‐D images. Its primary advantage is that it will work on any full‐color display (LCDs, plasmas, and even prints) and only requires that the user view the anaglyph image using a pair of anaglyph 3‐D glasses with usually one lens tinted red and the other lens tinted cyan (blue plus green). A common image‐quality problem of anaglyph 3‐D images is high levels of cross‐talk — the incomplete isolation of the left and right image channels such that each eye sees a “ghost” of the opposite perspective view. An anaglyph cross‐talk simulation model has been developed which allows the amount of anaglyph cross‐talk to be estimated based on the spectral characteristics of the anaglyph glasses and the display. The model is validated using a visual cross‐talk ranking test which indicates good agreement. The model is then used to consider two scenarios for the reduction of cross‐talk in anaglyph systems and finds that a considerable reduction is likely to be achieved by using spectrally pure displays. The study also finds that the 3‐D performance of commercial anaglyph glasses can be significantly better than handmade anaglyph glasses.
Comparison, artificial neural network modeling and genetic algorithm optimization of the resinoid and potassium yields from white lady’s bedstraw (Galium mollugo L.) by conventional, reflux and ultrasound-assisted aqueous-ethanolic extraction
Authors: Milic Petar , Rajkovic Katarina , Milicevic Predrag , Milic Slavica , Brdaric Tanja , Pavelkic Vesna
Published: May 2012

In this work, the yields of resinoid and potassium obtained from aerial parts
of white lady?s bedstraw (Galium mollugo L.) by maceration, reflux extraction
and ultrasound-assisted extraction using aqueous ethanol solutions as
solvents. The main goal was to define the influence of the extraction
technique and the ethanol concentration on the resinoid and potassium yields.
The resinoid and potassium yields were determined by the solvent evaporation
from the liquid extracts to constant weight and the AAS emission method,
respectively. The dependence of resinoid and potassium yields on the ethanol
concentration was described by linear and quadratic polynomial models,
respectively. The best potassium extraction selectivity of 0.077 g K/g of dry
extract was achieved by maceration at the ethanol concentrations of 10 g/100
g. The artificial neural network (ANN) was successfully applied to estimate
the resinoid and potassium yields based on the ethanol concentration in the
extracting solvent and the time duration for all three extraction techniques
employed. The response surface methodology was also used to present the
dependence of ANN results on the operating factors. The extraction process
was optimized using the ANN model coupled with genetic algorithm. The maximum
predicted resinoid and potassium yields of 30.4 and 1.67 g/100 g of dry plant
were obtained by the ultrasonic extraction (80 min) using the 10 g/100 g
aqueous ethanol solution.
The evaluation of the state of the Sopot Municipality environment as a condition for sustainable development of the municipality area
Authors: Filipovic Dejan , Obradovic-Arsic Danijela
Published: May 2012

The Sopot Municipality can be conditionally characterized as 'an ecological
municipality' considering it is known for its preserved and quality
environment, which is the result of the absence of greater sources of
degradation and environmental pollution. The structure and usage of the Sopot
municipality space was influenced by its specific position and historic
development, the resources, the fact it is in the vicinity of Belgrade, as
well as the processes taking places in the last few decades. Besides natural,
anthropogenic factors substantially influenced the way of spatial
development, often violating natural conditions and possibilities. In that
sense, the current environmental condition analysis represents the important
integral planning base for further spatial development of the Municipality.
In this paper the environmental condition is shown according to single
elements (air, water, soil), the attention is drawn to the problem of waste
on the Sopot Municipality area, and in the end the valorization of the
environment was performed from the aspect of pollution level.
The role of the Pan-European corridors in establishing Serbian tourist offer
Authors: Ratkaj Ivan , Obrenic Jelena , Budovic Aljosa
Published: May 2012

Contemporary political and economic trends impose the necessity of an
efficient inter-regional connection in Europe, which was the reason for
establishing the network of Pan-European corridors. The aim is to indicate
Pan-European corridors as necessary, but not sufficient condition for the
formation of the overall Serbian touristic offer. It is one element of the
touristic offer that only in synergy with other primary and secondary
elements and factors gives full effects to the touristic trade. An endeavour
was made to examine qualitative features of the Serbian touristic offer along
corridors through comparative analysis. The conclusion has been derived by
implementation of some quantitative indicators.
The Danube region in Serbia within the process of transnational cooperation and interregional functional connections
Authors: Tosic Branka , Zivanovic Zora
Published: May 2012

The paper covers presentation of ways of international cooperation of Danube
region on the territory of Republic of Serbia and its spatial integration
levels of the immediate and wider environment (cross-border or trans-border
aspect of cooperation, transnational cooperation and interregional
cooperation). Danube region is space with the most active current integration
processes, which take place under the initiative of the European Union and
the definition of European instruments supporting cooperation of states along
the Danube River flow, as well as more specific territorial entities that are
directly related to the river. In addition to European strategies and
programs, the cooperation includes cross-border cooperation activities of
Serbia based on resolving socio-economic problems, issues related to
infrastructure, environmental protection and other areas of cooperation that
include spaces Euroregional Association. The grounds for the implementation
of planned measures for further Danube region development also include
functional connections on regional and local level within the territory of
the Republic of Serbia.
Mathematical-geographical intention in orienting mediaeval churches of the Serbian monastery Gradac
Authors: Tadic Milutin , Petrovic Aleksandar
Published: May 2012

The subject of the paper is an exact analysis of the orientation of the
Serbian monastery churches: the Church of the Virgin Mary (13th century), St.
Nicholas' Church (13th century), and an early Christian church (6th century).
The paper determines the azimuth of parallel axes in churches, and then the
aberrations of those axes from the equinoctial east are interpreted. Under
assumption that the axes were directed towards the rising sun, it was
surmised that the early Christian church's patron saint could be St. John the
Baptist, that the Church of the Virgin Mary was founded on Annunciation day
to which it is dedicated, and that St. Nicholas' Church is oriented in
accordance with the rule (?toward the sunrise?) even though its axis deviates
from the equinoctial east by 41? degrees.
Assessment of ropivacaine postoperative analgesic effect after periapical maxillary incisors surgery
Authors: Tijanic Milos , Buric Nikola , Jovanovic Goran , Stojanovic Simona , Spasic Milan
Published: May 2012

Background/Aim. Ropivacaine is a relatively new longacting local anesthetic.
The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative analgesic effect of
topical anesthetics ropivacaine 0.75% and lidocaine 2% with adrenaline in
the postoperative treatment of periapical lesions in the maxilla. Methods.
The study was conducted on 60 subjects, divided into two groups. The
study-group received 0.75% ropivacaine without a vasoconstrictor, while the
control group was treated with 2% lidocaine with adrenaline (1 : 80.000).
Block anesthesia for n. infraorbitalis was used and local anesthetics were
applied also on the palatine side for the end branches of n. nasopalatinus.
The following parameters were observed: time elapsed from the application of
an anesthetic until the first occurrence of pain after the surgery and first
intake of an analgesic, the intensity of initial pain, pain intensity 6 h
after the application of anesthetics and the total number of analgesics
taken within 24 h after the completion of surgery. Results. The pain
appeared statistically significantly earlier in the patients who had been
given lidocaine with adrenaline (p < 0.001), while statistically
significantly higher mean values of initial postoperative pain (p < 0.05)
and pain intensity 6 h after the intervention (p < 0.01) were also
registered in the same group of patients. In the period of 24 h upon the
intervention, the study-group patients were taking less analgesics as
compared to the control-group subjects (46.6% vs 73.3%), who were given
analgesics earlier, although no statistically significant differences were
observed related to the number of analgesic doses taken. Conclusion. The
results of our study indicate a better postoperative analgesic effect of
ropivacaine as compared to lidocaine with adrenaline.
Assessment of axillary lymph nodes involvement in patients with breast cancer depending on the tumor size and its histological and nuclear grades
Authors: Bojic Toplica , Djordjevic Nebojsa , Karanikolic Aleksandar , Filipovic Sladjana , Granic Miroslav , Poultsidi Antigoni
Published: May 2012

Background/Aim. There are a lot of studies aiding to the opinion that the
involvement degree of axilla lymph nodes grows depending on increase of
breast tumor size, and its histological and nuclear grades. The aim of this
study was to assess the risk of axillary lymph nodes involvement, as well as
the relation between the tumor size, histological and nuclear grades in a
group of female patients who underwent breast cancer surgery, including
levels 1-3 axillary dissection. Methods. Investigation covered 900 patients
operated on during 2005-2008 who underwent modified radical mastectomy
including axillar dissection. We assessed a number of involved lymph nodes,
depending on tumor macroscopic size (T), histological grade (HG) and nuclear
grade (NG). Results. A total number of examined lymph nodes was 9977. The
incidence of involved lymph nodes was from 18.6% with T1 tumor size up to
60.2% with T4 tumor size. Concerning histological grade, the number of
involved lymph nodes ranged from 14.2% (HGI) to 45.1% (HGIII); while in terms
of nuclear grade, the number of involved lymph nodes ranged from 17.4% (NGI)
to 54.5% (NGIV). By using ?2-test for trend and odds ratio (OR), the results
showed that the axillary lymph nodes involvement degree was increased with
the increase of the tumor size and its histological and nuclear grades. The
risk of axillary lymphatic nodes involvement was 1.43 times higher in the
group of T2 tumors size compared to the smaller tumors T1 size, and even up
to 6.62 times higher in case of T4 tumor size. It was also increasied from
1.79 times for HGII to even 4.98 times for HGIII, and from 1.44 times for
NGII to 5.71 times for NGIV. Conclusion. In breast cancer patients, there is
a strong correlation between tumor size, its histological and nuclear grades
and the risk of axillary lymph nodes involvement.
Screening, identification and evaluation of autism spectrum disorders in primary health care
Authors: Lakic Aneta
Published: May 2012

nema
Malignant ameloblastoma metastasis to the neck: Radiological and pathohistological dilemma
Authors: Golubovic Mileta , Petrovic Milan , Jelovac Drago , Nenezic Dragoslav , Antunovic Marija
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Ameloblastomas are odontogenic epithelial, locally invasive
tumors of slow growth and mostly of benign behavior. Their frequency is low
(they account for 1% of all head and neck tumors and about 11% of tumors of
dental origin). Malignant variations of ameloblastoma are malignant
ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma. They constitute less than 1% of all
ameloblastomas. We presented a case of malignant ameloblastoma of the
mandible with neck metastasis. Case report. A patient, aged 72, presented
with the following symptoms: pain in the lower jaw, swelling in the left
submandibular area and difficult mouth opening. The patient was admitted to
the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinical Center of
Montenegro, two months after he had noticed the symptoms. Panoramic
radiography (OPG) showed that both jaws were partially toothless with
terminal stage of periodontitis of the remaining teeth. Also, OPG showed
sharply limited semicircular defect in the retromolar region and along the
front edge of the mandible rami. Conventional histopathologic examination of
the neck masses showed malignant ameloblastoma which contained central fields
of squamous differentiation. Immunoreactivity of several markers was
determined using immunohistochemical analyses. After these diagnostic methods
a definite histopathology diagnosis was made: Ameloblastoma metastaticum in
textus fibroadiposus regio colli (typus acanthomatosus). Conclusion. It is
not possible to distinguish conventional, ie intraosseous, ameloblastoma from
malignant ameloblastoma according to histopathologic features. It is
necessary to pay special attention, especially in elderly patients, and to
carry out further clinical, radiological and pathohistological diagnostic
procedures, such as immunohistochemical analysis. A timely and correct
diagnosis and treatment of malignant ameloblastoma require a
multidisciplinary approach.
Subdural empyema, retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal space abscess: Unusual complications of chronic otitis media
Authors: Erdevicki Ljiljana , Belic Branislav , Arsenijevic Snezana , Milojevic Ivan , Stojanovic Jasmina
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Otitic complications arise from expansion of the middle ear
infection. Subdural empyema is a rare otitic complication, and both
retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscesses have been described in just a
few cases. Case report. A 30-year-old male was, admitted as an emergency case
because of breathing difficulties, secretion from the ear, and fever.
Clinical examination had shown a purulent, fetid secretion from the ear,
swelling on the roof of epipharynx, left tonsil pushed medialy, immobile
epiglottis, reduced breathing space. Computed tomography revealed thick
hypodense content filling cavity, mastoid entering the posterior cranial
fossa, descending down throw the parapharyngeal space to the mesopharynx. On
the roof and posterior wall of the epipharynx hypodense collection was also
present. Tracheotomy was conducted, and incision of the parapharyngeal and
retropharyngeal abscess and radical tympanomastoidectomy were performed. The
patient?s state deteriorated on the tenth postoperative day with hemiparesis
and consciousness disorder. Magnetic resonance imaging was done. It showed
subdural empyema of the left frontoparietal region and next to the falx, so
craniotomy and abscess drainage were conducted. Conclusion. Parapharyngeal,
retropharyngeal abscess and subdural empyema are rare otitic complications.
Adequate antibiotic therapy and radical surgical treatment make possible an
outcome with survival.
Hyperglycemia Causes Renal Cell Damage via CCN2-Induced Activation of the TrkA Receptor
Authors: Fragiadaki Maria , Hill Nicola , Hewitt Reiko , Bou-Gharios George , Cook Terence , Tam Frederick W. , Domin Jan , Mason Roger M.
Published: May 2012

CCN2, a secreted profibrotic protein, is highly expressed in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and implicated in its pathogenesis; however, the actions of CCN2 in DN remain elusive. We previously demonstrated that CCN2 triggers signaling via tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA). Trace expression of TrkA is found in normal kidneys, but its expression is elevated in several nephropathies; yet its role in DN is unexplored. In this study we show de novo expression of TrkA in human and murine DN. We go on to study the molecular mechanisms leading to TrkA activation and show that it involves hypoxia, as demonstrated by ischemia–reperfusion injury and in vitro experiments mimicking hypoxia, implicating hypoxia as a common pathway leading to disease. We also expose renal cells to hyperglycemia, which led to TrkA phosphorylation in mesangial cells, tubular epithelial cells, and podocytes but not in glomerular endothelial cells and renal fibroblasts. In addition, we report that hyperglycemia caused an induction of phosphorylated extracellular signal–related kinase 1/2 and Snail1 that was abrogated by silencing of TrkA or CCN2 using small interfering RNA. In conclusion, we provide novel evidence that TrkA is activated in diabetic kidneys and suggest that anti-TrkA therapy may prove beneficial in DN.
Inhibition of Gelatinase B (Matrix Metalloprotease-9) Activity Reduces Cellular Inflammation and Restores Function of Transplanted Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Lingwal Neelam , Padmasekar Manju , Samikannu Balaji , Bretzel Reinhard G. , Preissner Klaus T. , Linn Thomas
Published: May 2012

Islet transplantation provides an approach to compensate for loss of insulin-producing cells in patients with type 1 diabetes. However, the intraportal route of transplantation is associated with instant inflammatory reactions to the graft and subsequent islet destruction as well. Although matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-2 and -9 are involved in both remodeling of extracellular matrix and leukocyte migration, their influence on the outcome of islet transplantation has not been characterized. We observed comparable MMP-2 mRNA expressions in control and transplanted groups of mice, whereas MMP-9 mRNA and protein expression levels increased after islet transplantation. Immunostaining for CD11b (Mac-1)-expressing leukocytes (macrophage, neutrophils) and Ly6G (neutrophils) revealed substantially reduced inflammatory cell migration into islet-transplanted liver in MMP-9 knockout recipients. Moreover, gelatinase inhibition resulted in a significant increase in the insulin content of transplanted pancreatic islets and reduced macrophage and neutrophil influx compared with the control group. These results indicate that the increase of MMP-9 expression and activity after islet transplantation is directly related to enhanced leukocyte migration and that early islet graft survival can be improved by inhibiting MMP-9 (gelatinase B) activity.
A Gene-Family Analysis of 61 Genetic Variants in the Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Genes for Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes in American Indians
Authors: Yang Jingyun , Zhu Yun , Cole Shelley A. , Haack Karin , Zhang Ying , Beebe Laura A. , Howard Barbara V. , Best Lyle G. , Devereux Richard B. , Henderson Jeffrey A. , Henderson Patricia , Lee Elisa T. , Zhao Jinying
Published: May 2012

Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Genetic variants in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) genes have been associated with smoking phenotypes and are likely to influence diabetes. Although each single variant may have only a minor effect, the joint contribution of multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to the occurrence of disease may be larger. In this study, we conducted a gene-family analysis to investigate the joint impact of 61 tag SNPs in 7 nAChRs genes on insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in 3,665 American Indians recruited by the Strong Heart Family Study. Results show that although multiple SNPs showed marginal individual association with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, only a few can pass adjustment for multiple testing. However, a gene-family analysis considering the joint impact of all 61 SNPs reveals significant association of the nAChR gene family with both insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (both P < 0.0001), suggesting that genetic variants in the nAChR genes jointly contribute to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes among American Indians. The effects of these genetic variants on insulin resistance and diabetes are independent of cigarette smoking per se.
Modulation of Redox Balance Leaves Murine Diabetogenic TH1 T Cells “LAG-3-ing” Behind
Authors: Delmastro Meghan M. , Styche Alexis J. , Trucco Massimo M. , Workman Creg J. , Vignali Dario A.A. , Piganelli Jon D.
Published: May 2012

Preventing activation of diabetogenic T cells is critical for delaying type 1 diabetes onset. The inhibitory molecule lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3) and metalloprotease tumor necrosis factor-α converting enzyme (TACE) work together to regulate TH1 responses. The aim of this study was to determine if regulating redox using a catalytic antioxidant (CA) could modulate TACE-mediated LAG-3 shedding to impede diabetogenic T-cell activation and progression to disease. A combination of in vitro experiments and in vivo analyses using NOD mouse strains was conducted to test the effect of redox modulation on LAG-3 shedding, TACE enzymatic function, and disease onset. Systemic treatment of NOD mice significantly delayed type 1 diabetes onset. Disease prevention correlated with decreased activation, proliferation, and effector function of diabetogenic T cells; reduced insulin-specific T-cell frequency; and enhanced LAG-3+ cells. Redox modulation also affected TACE activation, diminishing LAG-3 cleavage. Furthermore, disease progression was monitored by measuring serum soluble LAG-3, which decreased in CA-treated mice. Therefore, affecting redox balance by CA treatment reduces the activation of diabetogenic T cells and impedes type 1 diabetes onset via decreasing T-cell effector function and LAG-3 cleavage. Moreover, soluble LAG-3 can serve as an early T-cell–specific biomarker for type 1 diabetes onset and immunomodulation.
Team Pay for Performance
Authors: Springer Matthew G. , Pane John F. , Le Vi-Nhuan , McCaffrey Daniel F. , Burns Susan Freeman , Hamilton Laura S. , Stecher Brian
Published: May 2012

Education policymakers have shown increased interest in incentive programs for teachers based on the outcomes of their students. This article examines a program in which bonuses were awarded to teams of middle school teachers based on their collective contribution to student test score gains. The study employs a randomized controlled trial to examine effects of the bonus program over the course of an academic year, with the experiment repeated a second year, and finds no significant effects on the achievement of students or the attitudes and practices of teachers. The lack of effects of team-level pay for performance in this study is consistent with other recent experiments studying the short-term effects of bonus awards for individual performance or whole-school performance.
Expression of Selected Ginkgo biloba Heat Shock Protein Genes After Cold Treatment Could Be Induced by Other Abiotic Stress
Authors: Cao Fuliang , Cheng Hua , Cheng Shuiyuan , Li Linling , Xu Feng , Yu Wanwen , Yuan Honghui
Published: May 2012

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) play various stress-protective roles in plants. In this study, three HSP genes were isolated from a suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) cDNA library of Ginkgo biloba leaves treated with cold stress. Based on the molecular weight, the three genes were designated GbHSP16.8, GbHSP17 and GbHSP70. The full length of the three genes were predicted to encode three polypeptide chains containing 149 amino acids (Aa), 152 Aa, and 657 Aa, and their corresponding molecular weights were predicted as follows: 16.67 kDa, 17.39 kDa, and 71.81 kDa respectively. The three genes exhibited distinctive expression patterns in different organs or development stages. GbHSP16.8 and GbHSP70 showed high expression levels in leaves and a low level in gynoecia, GbHSP17 showed a higher transcription in stamens and lower level in fruit. This result indicates that GbHSP16.8 and GbHSP70 may play important roles in Ginkgo leaf development and photosynthesis, and GbHSP17 may play a positive role in pollen maturation. All three GbHSPs were up-regulated under cold stress, whereas extreme heat stress only caused up-regulation of GbHSP70, UV-B treatment resulted in up-regulation of GbHSP16.8 and GbHSP17, wounding treatment resulted in up-regulation of GbHSP16.8 and GbHSP70, and abscisic acid (ABA) treatment caused up-regulation of GbHSP70 primarily.
Isolation and Characterization of 15 New Microsatellite Markers in Oncomelania hupensis, the Snail Intermediate Host of Schistosoma japonicum in Mainland China
Authors: Zhang Li , Li Shizhu , Wang Qiang , Qian Yingjun , Liu Qin , Yang Pin , Zhou Xiaonong
Published: May 2012

Oncomelania hupensis is the unique intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum, which plays a key role during the transmission of schistosomiasis. It is mainly found in the Yangtze River valley and mountains or hills in southwest China. In this paper, we described 15 new microsatellite makers in O. hupensis. Polymorphism of each locus was assessed in 80 individuals from four wild populations (n = 20 per population). The number of alleles per locus ranged from 6 to 29, with an average of 15.8. The observed (HO) and expected (HE) heterozygosities varied from 0.397 to 0.851 and from 0.696 to 0.948, respectively. These microsatellite markers will be useful for population genetic studies and genome mapping in O. hupensis.
Production and Characterization of Brass-matrix Composites Reinforced with Ni59Zr20Ti16Si2Sn3 Glassy Particles
Authors: Kim Jin Young , Scudino Sergio , Kühn Uta , Kim Bum Sung , Lee Min Ha , Eckert Jürgen
Published: May 2012

Brass-matrix composites reinforced with 40 and 60 vol.% of Ni59Zr20Ti16Si2Sn3 glassy particles were produced by powder metallurgy. The crystallization behavior and the temperature dependence of the viscosity of the glass reinforcement were studied in detail to select the proper sintering parameters in order to avoid crystallization of the glassy phase during consolidation. The brass-glass powder mixtures were prepared through manual blending as well as by ball milling to analyze the effect of the matrix ligament size on the mechanical properties of the composites. The powder mixtures were then consolidated into highly-dense bulk specimens at temperatures within the supercooled liquid region by hot pressing followed by hot extrusion. The preparation of the powder mixtures has a strong influence on the mechanical behavior of the composites. The strength increases from 500 MPa for pure brass to 740 and 925 MPa for the blended composites with 40 and 60vol.% of glass reinforcement, while the strength increases to 1,240 and 1,640 MPa for the corresponding composites produced by ball milling. Modeling of the mechanical properties indicates that this behavior is related to the reduced matrix ligament size characterizing the milled composites.
Synthesis of functionalized macrocyclic derivatives of trioxabicyclo[3.3.0]nonadiene
Authors: Leber Sabine , Kollenz Gert , Wentrup Curt
Published: May 2012

C72-Macrocyclic systems functionalized with nitroaryl and arylamino groups were synthesized from the bisdioxine diacid dichloride 1,3,5,7-tetra-tert-butyl-2,6,9-trioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nona-3,7-diene-4,8-dicarbonyl dichloride (3).
Les défis de la politique chinoise de Barack Obama
Authors: Courmont Barthélemy
Published: May 2012

Résumé La politique chinoise de Barack Obama s’articule autour d’un compromis entre des éléments du hard power et du soft power . Cette posture est qualifiée de « diplomatie intelligente », traduction de smart policy ou smart power . Cependant, face à la montée en puissance de la Chine et ses développements, tant dans le domaine économique que politique, quelle est la réelle marge de manœuvre de Washington dans sa relation avec Pékin, et quelles sont les implications de la smart policy  ? Si la politique chinoise est une priorité pour l’Administration Obama, les défis auxquels Washington fait face sont particulièrement nombreux, conséquences d’un échec dans la redéfinition de la relation Chine-États-Unis largement attribué à l’Administration Bush.
Propositions pour un prélèvement de solidarité sur les transactions financières
Authors: Serre Julien
Published: May 2012

Résumé Après un rappel des objectifs chiffrés d’aide au développement fixés par les organisations internationales, l’auteur établit que la taxe sur les transactions financières n’est plus un sujet tabou et que la possibilité de son instauration fait relatif consensus au sein des nombreux travaux existants. Il concentre ensuite son propos sur les ressources générées par la mise en œuvre de cette taxe au niveau de l’Union européenne, soit une estimation par la Commission européenne de 55 milliards d’euros. Il établit une liste de propositions pour l’utilisation d’un tiers de cette taxe environ, dénommé prélèvement de solidarité sur les transactions financières et dégagé à hauteur de 20 milliards d’euros, pour favoriser l’emploi et financer l’aide au développement.
Antimicrobial Options in the Treatment of Adult Staphylococcal Bone and Joint Infections in an Era of Drug Shortages
Authors: Mruk Allison L. , Record Kenneth E.
Published: May 2012

Staphylococcus aureus
is the most pathogenic bacterium and the most common cause of osteomyelitis, affecting 50% to 70% of cases. Many antistaphylococcal agents with varying activity against methicillin-susceptible
S aureus
and methicillin-resistant
S aureus
are available in the US market. This article reviews the most common antistaphylococcal agents used in the treatment of bone and joint infections in adult patients and focuses on the antimicrobial agent’s mechanism of action, US Food and Drug Administration–approved indications, place in therapy, monitoring parameters, and common side effects.
Treatment of Femoral Neck Fractures With Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty Using a Modified Minimally Invasive Posterior Approach in Patients With Neurological Disorders
Authors: Han Suk-Ku , Kim Yong-Sik , Kang Soo-Hwan
Published: May 2012

Bipolar hemiarthroplasty is a useful treatment for displaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients. Although uncommon, dislocation is problematic, particularly in older patients, and those with neurologic disorders are at an increased risk for this complication. Recently, a modified posterior approach to the hip intended to enhance hip joint stability by preserving the short external rotators was described. Therefore, the dislocation rate was compared after bipolar hemiarthroplasty using the modified or standard minimally invasive posterior approach.

A retrospective analysis was performed of 67 patients older than 65 years with displaced femoral neck fractures and neurological disorders who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty using the modified and standard approaches in 28 and 39 hips, respectively. Follow-up averaged 19.3 months. Dislocation rates for the treatment and control groups were 0% and 7.7%, respectively (
P
<.01). No significant difference existed in postoperative bleeding, operative time, or length of hospital stay between groups. These data suggest a lower dislocation rate after bipolar hemiarthroplasty via the modified, short external rotator–sparing approach for treating displaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients with neurological disorders.