bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attaching and Effacing Bacterial Effector NleC Suppresses Epithelial Inflammatory Responses by Inhibiting NF-κB and p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Activation
Authors: Sham Ho Pan , Shames Stephanie R. , Croxen Matthew A. , Ma Caixia , Chan Justin M. , Khan Mohammed A. , Wickham Mark E. , Deng Wanyin , Finlay B. Brett , Vallance Bruce A.
Published: July 2011

Enteropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(EPEC) and enterohemorrhagic
E. coli
are noninvasive attaching and effacing (A/E) bacterial pathogens that cause intestinal inflammation and severe diarrheal disease. These pathogens utilize a type III secretion system to deliver effector proteins into host epithelial cells, modulating diverse cellular functions, including the release of the chemokine interleukin-8 (IL-8). While studies have implicated the effectors NleE (non-locus of enterocyte effacement [LEE]-encoded effector E) and NleH1 in suppressing IL-8 release, by preventing NF-κB nuclear translocation, the impact of these effectors only partially replicates the immunosuppressive actions of wild-type EPEC, suggesting another effector or effectors are involved. Testing an array of EPEC mutants, we identified the non-LEE-encoded effector C (NleC) as also suppressing IL-8 release. Infection by Δ
nleC
EPEC led to exaggerated IL-8 release from infected Caco-2 and HT-29 epithelial cells. NleC localized to EPEC-induced pedestals, with signaling studies revealing NleC inhibits both NF-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. Using
Citrobacter rodentium
, a mouse-adapted A/E bacterium, we found that Δ
nleC
and wild-type
C. rodentium
-infected mice carried similar pathogen burdens, yet Δ
nleC
strain infection led to worsened colitis. Similarly, infection with Δ
nleC
C. rodentium
in a cecal loop model induced significantly greater chemokine responses than infection with wild-type bacteria. These studies thus advance our understanding of how A/E pathogens subvert host inflammatory responses.
Increased Survival and Reduced Neutrophil Infiltration of the Liver in Rab27a- but Not Munc13-4-Deficient Mice in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Johnson Jennifer L. , Hong Hong , Monfregola Jlenia , Catz Sergio D.
Published: July 2011

Genetic defects in theRab27aorMunc13-4gene lead to immunodeficiencies in humans, characterized by frequent viral and bacterial infections. However, the role of Rab27a and Munc13-4 in the regulation of systemic inflammation initiated by Gram-negative bacterium-derived pathogenic molecules is currently unknown. Using a model of lipopolysaccharide-induced systemic inflammation, we show that Rab27a-deficient (Rab27aash/ash) mice are resistant to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced death, while Munc13-4-deficient (Munc13-4jinx/jinx) mice show only moderate protection. Rab27aash/ashbut not Munc13-4jinx/jinxmice showed significantly decreased tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) plasma levels after LPS administration. Neutrophil sequestration in lungs from Rab27aash/ashand Munc13-4jinx/jinxLPS-treated mice was similar to that observed for wild-type mice. In contrast, Rab27a- but not Munc13-4-deficient mice showed decreased neutrophil infiltration in liver and failed to undergo LPS-induced neutropenia. Decreased liver infiltration in Rab27aash/ashmice was accompanied by lower CD44 but normal CD11a and CD11b expression in neutrophils. Both Rab27a- and Munc13-4-deficient mice showed decreased azurophilic granule secretionin vivo, suggesting that impaired liver infiltration and improved survival in Rab27aash/ashmice is not fully explained by deficient exocytosis of this granule subset. Altogether, our data indicate that Rab27a but not Munc13-4 plays an important role in neutrophil recruitment to liver and LPS-induced death during endotoxemia, thus highlighting a previously unrecognized role for Rab27a in LPS-mediated systemic inflammation.
Contribution of a Streptococcus mutans Antigen Expressed by a Salmonella Vector Vaccine in Dendritic Cell Activation
Authors: Xu Qingan , Katz Jenny , Zhang Ping , Ashtekar Amit R. , Gaddis Dalia E. , Fan Mingwen , Michalek Suzanne M.
Published: July 2011

ASalmonellavector vaccine expressing the saliva-binding region (SBR) of the adhesin AgI/II ofStreptococcus mutanshas been shown to induce a mixed Th1/Th2 anti-SBR immune response in mice and to require Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR4, and MyD88 signaling for the induction of mucosal anti-SBR antibody responses. Since dendritic cells (DC) are critical in innate and adaptive immunity, the present study assessed the role of SBR expression by the vector vaccine in DC activation. Bone marrow-derived DC from wild-type and TLR2, TLR4, and MyD88 knockout mice were stimulated withSalmonellavector BRD509, the SBR-expressingSalmonellavector vaccine BRD509(pSBRT7), or SBR protein, and the DC responses to different stimuli were compared by assessing costimulatory molecule expression, cytokine production, and signaling pathways. The DC response to both BRD509(pSBRT7) and BRD509 was dependent mainly on TLR4. BRD509(pSBRT7) and BRD509 induced upregulation of CD80, CD86, CD40, and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) expression. Lower levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-12p40 were produced by BRD509(pSBRT7)-stimulated DC than by BRD509-stimulated DC. Furthermore, BRD509(pSBRT7)-stimulated DC showed decreased p38 phosphorylation compared to that induced by DC stimulated with BRD509. However, BRD509(pSBRT7)-treated DC produced a higher level of IL-6 than BRD509-stimulated cells. The low IL-12p40 and high IL-6 cytokine profile expressed by BRD509(pSBRT7)-stimulated DC may represent a shift toward a Th2 response, as suggested by the increased expression in Jagged-1. These results provide novel evidence that a heterologous protein expressed by aSalmonellavector vaccine can differentially affect DC activation.
Looking for the Mojave-Sonora megashear in northeastern Mexico
Authors: Gray Gary G. , Lawton Timothy F. , Murphy Justin J.
Published: July 2011

Basement outcrops are rare in northeastern Mexico, but the effect of older basement structures on the current structural plan is clear. Two large structures, the San Marcos fault and the northern edge of the Sierra Madre Oriental, are oriented roughly east-west, and have been postulated as sites of the Mojave-Sonora megashear. Both structures were probably active in the late Jurassic. The San Marcos fault continued to be active into the Cretaceous, while the northern edge of the Sierra Madre Oriental became inactive. Both structures were strongly reactivated during the Laramide orogeny. Potential fields data integrated with regional geologic mapping suggests a series of horsts and grabens were created during Middle-Late Jurassic rifting of the basement, but that relative displacements are far less than those proposed for the Mojave-Sonora megashear system. The northern edge of the Sierra Madre Oriental, with its large left-step along the Monterrey salient, is kinematically more compatible with the postulated left-lateral offset along the Mojave-Sonora megashear, while the San Marcos fault has numerous right-stepping offsets, which is kinematically incom-patible with the Mojave-Sonora megashear hypothesis. In general, however, these data do not support the concept of a large-offset left-lateral megashear in northeastern Mexico.
Tropical cyclone development, structure, and impact on the Louisiana-Texas coast
Authors: Ashmore Richard A.
Published: July 2011

Each year from June through November, tropical cyclones are a common potential problem for those living in coastal communities along the southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas coasts. Developing from small tropical disturbances, tropical cyclone strength is determined by many factors: ocean temperature, upper and lower wind circulation, latitudinal position, etc. Ecological, geological, and economic effects of strong-to-devastating tropical cyclones on coastal areas are typically extreme. Since the 1860s, seven strong or greater tropical cyclones have struck the Louisiana-Texas coast. Their impact has made an indelible impression on the coastline as well as on the communities in the area
Chenier Plain road log
Authors: Ashmore Richard A. , Owen Donald E.
Published: July 2011

Each year from June through November, tropical cyclones are a common potential problem for those living in coastal communities along the southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas coasts. Developing from small tropical disturbances, tropical cyclone strength is determined by many factors: ocean temperature, upper and lower wind circulation, latitudinal position, etc. Ecological, geological, and economic effects of strong-to-devastating tropical cyclones on coastal areas are typically extreme. Since the 1860s, seven strong or greater tropical cyclones have struck the Louisiana-Texas coast. Their impact has made an indelible impression on the coastline as well as on the communities in the area
New investigations of Pleistocene glacial and pluvial records in northeastern Nevada
Authors: Munroe Jeffrey S. , Laabs Benjamin J.C.
Published: July 2011

The Great Basin of the western United States offers tremendous potential for exploring the response of mountain glaciers and lowland lakes to climate changes during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM, MIS-2, ca. 22–18 ka B.P.) and subsequent glacial-interglacial transition. The combination of well-distributed alpine moraine records and pluvial lake deposits offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop a more precise understanding of temperature and precipitation changes during the latest Pleistocene and into the Holocene. This field trip provides an overview of recent and ongoing work illuminating aspects of the glacial and pluvial history of northeastern Nevada from the LGM to the present. The route of this trip involves three full days of stops separated by two nights in Elko, Nevada. The first day focuses on glacial deposits at the type locality for the LGM Angel Lake Glaciation on the eastern side of the East Humboldt Range. The second day explores the geomorphic record of pluvial Lakes Franklin and Clover on the east side of the Ruby–East Humboldt Mountains and describes recent efforts to develop a chronology for the late Pleistocene regression of these lakes. The final day again focuses on glacial geology, starting with the type locality of the pre-LGM Lamoille Glaciation on the west side of the Ruby Mountains, and ending with several stops along the scenic drive up Lamoille Canyon.
Tectonomagmatic evolution of distinct arc terranes in the Blue Mountains Province, Oregon and Idaho
Authors: Northrup C.J. , Schmitz M. , Kurz G. , Tumpane K.
Published: July 2011

Recent mapping, U-Pb zircon geochronology, trace-element geochemistry, and tracer isotope geochemistry of plutonic and volcanic rocks in the Wallowa and Olds Ferry terranes of the Blue Mountains Province yield new insights into their tectonic evolution and pre-accretion history. Igneous rocks of the Wallowa arc terrane formed in two magmatic episodes of contrasting duration and geochemical characteristics. Magmatism in the first episode lasted for at least 20 Ma (ca. 268–248 Ma), spanning the Middle Permian to the Early Triassic and was of generally calc-alkaline affinity. Rock units associated with this episode include the Hunsaker Creek and Windy Ridge formations of the Wallowa terrane, as well as potentially equivalent tonalite and diorite plutonic rocks in the Cougar Creek Complex and related basement exposures, which show midcrustal levels of the terrane. The second episode of magmatism in the Wallowa arc was remarkably brief (U-Pb zircon dates range from 229.43 ± 0.08 Ma to 229.13 ± 0.45 Ma) and dominated by mafic to intermediate compositions of tholeiitic affinity. Rock units associated with the second episode may include the Wild Sheep Creek and Doyle Creek formations, as well as ubiquitous dikes and plutons in the Cougar Creek Complex and similar basement exposures. After 229 Ma, the Wallowa arc apparently became dormant.

The record of igneous activity in the Olds Ferry arc contrasts with that of the Wallowa in its age range and the continuity of calc-alkaline magmatism. Radiometric ages and stratigraphic field relationships allow the magmatic history of the Olds Ferry terrane to be divided into at least three cycles separated by brief hiatuses and collectively spanning the late Middle Triassic through the Early Jurassic (ca. 237– 187 Ma). Rock units related to these episodes are divided by unconformities, and they include the Brownlee pluton, lower Huntington Formation, and upper Huntington Formation. Magmatic activity in the Olds Ferry arc may have persisted until at least 174 Ma, based on the presence of volcanic ash horizons in the lower portion of the overlying Weatherby Formation of the Izee basin. All cycles of Olds Ferry magmatism display generally calc-alkaline affinity.

The contrasting magmatic histories of the Wallowa and Olds Ferry arc terranes provide the basis for at least two conclusions. First, these arcs formed as separate tectonic entities, rather than as a single composite arc. Second, progressive closure of the ocean basin between the arcs in the Late Triassic and Early Jurassic was related to continued subduction beneath the Olds Ferry arc, but the Wallowa arc was apparently dormant during much of that interval.
Paleontology and stratigraphy of middle Eocene rock units in the Bridger and Uinta Basins, Wyoming and Utah
Authors: Murphey Paul C. , Townsend K.E. Beth , Friscia Anthony R. , Evanoff Emmett
Published: July 2011

The Bridger Formation is located in the Green River basin in southwest Wyoming, and the Uinta and Duchesne River formations are located in the Uinta basin in Utah. These three rock units and their diverse fossil assemblages have great scientific importance and are also of historic interest to vertebrate paleontologists. Notably, they are also the stratotypes for the three middle Eocene North American Land Mammal “Ages,” the Bridgerian, Uintan, and Duchesnean, from oldest to youngest. The fossils and sediments of these formations provide a critically important record of biotic, environmental, and climatic history spanning ~10 million years (49–39 Ma). This article features a detailed field excursion through portions of the Green River and Uinta basins that focuses on locations of geologic, paleontologic, and historical interest. In support of the field excursion, we also provide a review of current knowledge of these formations with emphasis on lithostratigraphy, biochronology, depositional and paleoenvironmental history, and the history of scientific exploration.
Zygomatico-orbital intra-arterial melphalan infusion for intraocular retinoblastoma
Authors: Cooke Daniel , Farid Hamed , Kim Warren , Dowd Christopher , Higashida Randall , Halbach Van
Published: July 2011

Retinoblastoma is a rare and curable malignancy affecting the pediatric population. For advanced stage intraocular retinoblastoma, enucleation remains the primary treatment modality, although the use of laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are frequently used, particularly in the setting of bilateral disease. Intravenous chemotherapy is the long-standing method of delivery, but local administration (subtenon, intravitreal or intra-arterial) is gaining in popularity because of the reduced side effects related to systemic administration. Of these newer methods, intra-arterial infusion has demonstrated technical feasibility, few procedural complications and robust tumor response. A case is described where a collateral supply to the affected ophthalmic artery was via the zygomatico-orbital branch of the ipsilateral superficial temporal artery. Melphalan infusion was performed via this pathway without incident.
HEAVY STABLE CHARGED PARTICLE SEARCHES AT THE LHC
Authors: CHEN JIE , ADAMS TODD
Published: July 2011

Several searches for heavy stable charged particles have recently been performed using data from [Formula: see text]pp collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). This review summarizes some of the theoretical and experimental motivations for such searches, and discusses searches for stable squarks, stable gluino, stable sleptons and multiply charged heavy stable particles with the CMS and ATLAS detectors.
CLOSED ORBITS IN THE GENERAL LORENZ FAMILY
Authors: LIU YONGJIAN
Published: July 2011

This paper proves that all the closed orbits (including limit cycles) of the general Lorenz family must be planar, but only to be curves in space based on the technique of classification and identification for the quadratic surface in three-dimensional space. This result indicates that the qualitative property of the closed orbit for the systems is very complicated. We hope that this study would be beneficial for further studies of the dynamically rich chaotic system.
CLASSICAL DYNAMICS OF ESCAPE IN A PERIODICALLY DRIVEN UNBOUND HAMILTONIAN SYSTEM: INITIAL PHASE EFFECTS
Authors: KONSTANTINIDIS LEONIDAS , CONSTANTOUDIS VASSILIOS , NICOLAIDES CLEANTHES A.
Published: July 2011

We consider the problem of a classical Morse oscillator driven by an external periodic field of controllable characteristics and study systematically the effects of the initial phase of the external field on the probability of escape upon molecular dissociation at the end of the interaction time. First, it is shown that such effects indeed exist and may become important depending on the field amplitude and frequency. Then, an explanation is given in terms of the energy exchanges between the basic periodic orbits and the external field and of the associated modifications of the shape of regular islands in phase space. Finally, we exploit this explanation in order to make predictions regarding the behavior of the escape probability as a function of the initial phase and frequency of the external field.
CHARACTERIZATION OF CHAOS SCENARIOS WITH PERIODIC INCLUSIONS FOR ONE CLASS OF PIECEWISE-SMOOTH DYNAMICAL MAPS
Authors: TABORDA JOHN ALEXANDER , ANGULO FABIOLA , OLIVAR GERARD
Published: July 2011

In this paper, we study bifurcation scenarios characterized by period-adding cascades with alternating chaos in one class of piecewise-smooth maps (PWS). In this class, the state space is separated in three smooth zones defined by a saturation function. Some power converters controlled by Digital Pulse-Width Modulation (PWM) are physical applications of this class of PWS systems denoted by PWS3. Chaos has virtually been detected and studied in all disciplines, however the characterization problem of chaos scenarios has many open problems, mainly in nonsmooth dynamical systems. Novel bifurcation scenarios have recently been reported such as bandcount adding and bandcount increment scenarios based on the numerical detection of bands (where bands are considered as strongly connected components). However, this approach known as Bandcounter cannot be applied to detect bifurcations in chaos scenarios without crisis bifurcations or to identify topological changes inside of one-band chaos. We have proposed a novel framework named Dynamic Linkcounter approach to characterize chaos and torus breakdown scenarios in PWS systems. In this paper, we report overlapping period-adding cascades interspersed with a dynamic linkcount adding cascade. Each complex dynamic link (CDL) structure is a fingered strange attractor increasing in an arithmetic progression the number of CDL or fingers when a bifurcation parameter is varied. Alternative point of view based on tent-map-like structures is given to illustrate the formation of fingered strange attractors.
BIFURCATIONS OF TRAVELING WAVE SOLUTIONS AND EXACT SOLUTIONS FOR THE GENERALIZED SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION
Authors: ZHANG JIANMING , LI SHUMING
Published: July 2011

Using the method of dynamical systems for the generalized Schrödinger equation, the bright soliton solution, dark soliton solution, uncountably infinite many periodic wave solutions and breaking bounded wave solutions are obtained. Exact explicit parametric representations of the bounded traveling solutions are given. To guarantee the existence of the above solutions, all parameter conditions are determined.
BIFURCATION CONTROL FOR A CLASS OF LORENZ-LIKE SYSTEMS
Authors: YU PEI , LÜ JINHU
Published: July 2011

In this paper, a control method developed earlier is employed to consider controlling bifurcations in a class of Lorenz-like systems. Particular attention is focused on Hopf bifurcation control via linear and nonlinear stability analyses. The Lorenz system, Chen system and Lü system are studied in detail. Simple feedback controls are designed for controlling the stability of equilibrium solutions, limit cycles and chaotic motions. All formulas are derived in general forms including the system parameters. Computer simulation results are presented to confirm the analytical predictions.
A DYNAMICAL MODEL OF DECISION-MAKING BEHAVIOR IN A NETWORK OF CONSUMERS WITH APPLICATIONS TO ENERGY CHOICES
Authors: McCULLEN N. J. , IVANCHENKO M. V. , SHALFEEV V. D. , GALE W. F.
Published: July 2011

A consumer behavior model is considered in the context of a network of interacting individuals in an energy market. We propose and analyze a simple dynamical model of an ensemble of coupled active elements mimicking consumers' behavior, where "word-of-mouth" interactions between individuals are important. A single element is modeled using the automatic control system framework. Assuming local (nearest neighbor) coupling we study the evolution of chains and lattices of the model consumers when varying the coupling strength and initial conditions. The results are interpreted as the dynamics of the decision-making process by the energy-market consumers. We demonstrate that a pitchfork bifurcation to the homogeneous solution leads to bistability of stationary regimes, while the autonomous system is always monostable. In the presence of inhomogeneities, this results in the formation of clusters of sharply positive and negative opinions. We also find that, depending on the coupling strength, the perturbations caused by inhomogeneities can be exponentially localized in space or delocalized. In the latter case, the coarse-graining of opinion clusters occurs.
IMPACT OF TOPOLOGY ON THE MAXIMUM MULTICAST THROUGHPUT IN COMMUNICATION NETWORKS WITH NETWORK CODING
Authors: REN YAOZHONG , LAU FRANCIS C. M. , TSE CHI K. , DONG HAIRONG
Published: July 2011

Network coding has been shown to be an effective coding technique to improve the throughput of a multicast session in a communication network. In general, an undirected network can be used to model a communication network in which nodes at both ends of a link can exchange messages. For a single multicast session in an undirected network with network coding, the maximum throughput can be estimated based on the minimum maxflow between the source node and the destination nodes. In this letter, we evaluate the impact of the network topology on the maximum multicast throughput of a network-coded communication network. In particular, the scalefree network, which represents the topology of most man-made networks including the Internet, will be compared with the random network. The maximum throughputs of the multicast sessions are evaluated for different choices of source and destination nodes. It is found that network coding can achieve better throughput of a scalefree network only if the source and destination nodes are chosen from high-degree nodes.
A PROPOSED STANDARD FOR THE PUBLICATION OF NEW CHAOTIC SYSTEMS
Authors: SPROTT J. C.
Published: July 2011

With the abundance of chaotic systems that have now been identified and studied, it is prudent to establish a standard for the publication of new examples of such systems and to develop acceptable criteria for their characterization.
MEMRISTOR HAMILTONIAN CIRCUITS
Authors: ITOH MAKOTO , CHUA LEON O.
Published: July 2011

We prove analytically that 2-element memristive circuits consisting of a passive linear inductor in parallel with a passive memristor, or an active memristive device, can be described explicitly by a Hamiltonian equation, whose solutions can be periodic or damped, and can be represented analytically by the constants of the motion along the circuit Hamiltonian. Generalizations to 3-element and 2N-element memristive Hamiltonian circuits are also presented where complex bifurcation phenomena including chaos, abound.
PHYSICAL CAUSES OF ENERGY DENSITY INHOMOGENIZATION AND STABILITY OF ENERGY DENSITY HOMOGENEITY IN RELATIVISTIC SELF-GRAVITATING FLUIDS
Authors: HERRERA L.
Published: July 2011

We identify the factors responsible for the appearance of energy density inhomogeneities in a self-gravitating fluid, and describe the evolution of those factors from an initially homogeneous distribution. It is shown that a specific combination of the Weyl tensor and/or local anisotropy of pressure and/or dissipative fluxes entails the formation of energy density inhomogeneities. Different cases are analyzed in detail and in the particular case of dissipative fluids, the role of relaxational processes as well as nonlocal effects are brought out.
SOME PECULIARITIES OF NEWTON–HOOKE SPACETIMES
Authors: TIAN YU
Published: July 2011

Newton–Hooke spacetimes are the nonrelativistic limit of (anti-)de Sitter spacetimes. We investigate some peculiar facts about the Newton–Hooke spacetimes, among which the "extraordinary Newton–Hooke quantum mechanics" and the "anomalous Newton–Hooke spacetimes" are discussed in detail. Analysis on the Lagrangian/action formalism is performed in the discussion of the Newton–Hooke quantum mechanics, where the path integral point of view plays an important role, and the physically measurable density of probability is clarified.
Dilatation of the Great Arteries in an Infant with Marfan Syndrome and Ventricular Septal Defect
Authors: Rozendaal L. , Blom N. A. , Hilhorst-Hofstee Y. , Ten Harkel A. D. J.
Published: July 2011

We describe an infant presenting with contractures of the fingers, a large ventricular septal defect (VSD), and severe pulmonary artery dilatation. He had clinical and echocardiographic features of both neonatal or infantile Marfan syndrome (MFS) and congenital contractural arachnodactyly. After surgical VSD closure, the aortic root developed progressive dilatation while the size of pulmonary artery returned to normal limits. Eventually the diagnosis of MFS was confirmed by DNA analysis.
Disinfection of the Access Orifice in NOTES: Evaluation of the Evidence Base
Authors: Sodergren Mikael H. , Pucher Philip , Clark James , James David R. C. , Sockett Jenny , Matar Nagy , Teare Julian , Yang Guang-Zhong , Darzi Ara
Published: July 2011

Introduction. Appropriate prevention of infection is a key area of research in natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES), as identified by the Natural Orifice Surgery Consortium for Assessment and Research (NOSCAR). Methods. A review of the literature was conducted evaluating the evidence base for access orifice preparation/treatment in NOTES procedures in the context of infectious
complications. Recommendations based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines were made.
Results. The most robust evidence includes several experimental randomised controlled trials assessing infectious complications in the transgastric approach to NOTES. Transvaginal procedures are long established for accessing the peritoneal cavity following disinfection with antiseptic. Only experimental case series for transcolonic and transvesical approaches are described. Conclusion. Grade C recommendation requiring no preoperative preparation can be made for the transgastric approach. Antiseptic irrigation is recommended for transvaginal (grade C) NOTES access, as is current practice. Further human trials need to be conducted to corroborate the current evidence base for transgastric closure. It is important that future trials are conducted in a methodologically robust fashion, with emphasis on clinical outcomes and standardisation of enterotomy closure and postoperative therapy.
Harlequin Syndrome in a Case of Toxic Goitre: A Rare Association
Authors: Pradeep P. V. , Benede Ajith K. , Harshita Skandha S. , Jayashree B.
Published: July 2011

Harlequin syndrome (HS) is known to be associated with conditions like brain stem infarcts and superior mediastinal neurinoma. However, it has not been reported in association with autoimmune hyperthyroidism. We report a case of exacerbation of unilateral sweating in a patient with HS following the onset of toxic goitre. Previous reports have suggested that a tortuous inferior thyroid artery can produce neurovascular compression of the sympathetic chain which was not observed in our patient. Autoimmune aetiology for HS needs to be explored. Increased sweating in hyperthyroid patients needs to be assessed properly so as to prognosticate appropriately.
Bifurcations of Traveling Wave Solutions for the Coupled Higgs Field Equation
Authors: Tang Shengqiang , Xia Shu
Published: July 2011

By using the bifurcation theory of dynamical systems, we study the coupled Higgs field equation and the existence of new solitary wave solutions, and uncountably infinite many periodic wave solutions are obtained. Under different parametric conditions, various sufficient conditions to guarantee the existence of the above solutions are given. All exact explicit parametric representations of the above waves are determined.
Late Periprosthetic Joint Infection due toStaphylococcus lugdunensisIdentified by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Szabados Florian , Anders Agnes , Kaase Martin , Marlinghaus Lennart , Gatermann Sören G. , Teske Wolfram , Lichtinger Thomas
Published: July 2011

Staphylococcus lugdunensis, member to the group of coagulase-negative staphylococci, is previously thought to be rarely isolated. Recently other staphylococci have been described, which were supposedly related toS. lugdunensis, such asStaphylococcus pseudolugdunensisandStaphylococcus pettenkoferi. To decrease the rate misidentifications, an accurate identification method, such as matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry or molecular methods, should be used.S. lugdunensisis usually associated with severe infections similar to those caused byS. aureus. Moreover, it has been described that skin infections due toS. lugdunensisare severely underreported and could be also underreported in periprosthetic joint infections. Ours is the first case of a late periprosthetic infection of the hip due toS. lugdunensis, identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A periprosthetic infection due toS. lugdunensisshould be treated according to protocols ofS. aureusperiprosthetic infections, and therefore an accurate species identification is desirable.
Global Mild Solutions and Attractors for Stochastic Viscous Cahn‐Hilliard Equation
Authors: Ju Xuewei , Wang Hongli , Li Desheng , Duan Jinqiao
Published: July 2011

This paper is devoted to the study of mild solutions for the initial and boundary value problem of stochastic viscous Cahn‐Hilliard equation driven by white noise. Under reasonable assumptions we first prove the existence and uniqueness result. Then, we show that the existence of a stochastic global attractor which pullback attracts each bounded set in appropriate phase spaces.
Asymptotic Behavior of Solutions of Delayed Difference Equations
Authors: Diblík J. , Hlavičková I.
Published: July 2011

This contribution is devoted to the investigation of the asymptotic behavior of delayed difference equations with an integer delay. We prove that under appropriate conditions there exists at least one solution with its graph staying in a prescribed domain. This is achieved by the application of a more general theorem which deals with systems of first‐order difference equations. In the proof of this theorem we show that a good way is to connect two techniques—the so‐called retract‐type technique and Liapunov‐type approach. In the end, we study a special class of delayed discrete equations and we show that there exists a positive and vanishing solution of such equations.
Some Properties of Certain Multivalent Analytic Functions Involving the Cătas Operator
Authors: Elrifai E. A. , Darwish H. E. , Ahmed A. R.
Published: July 2011

We introduce a certain subclass of multivalent analytic functions by making use of the principle of subordination between these functions and Cătas operator. Such results as subordination and superordination properties, convolution properties, inclusion relationships, distortion theorems, inequality properties, and sufficient conditions for multivalent starlikeness are provide. The results presented here would provide extensions of those given in earlier works. Several other new results are also obtained.
Derivatization Ion Chromatography for the Determination of Monoethanolamine in Presence of Hydrazine in PHWR Steam-Water Circuits
Authors: D. Ayushi , Sengupta Arijit , Kumar Sangita D. , Kumbhar A. G. , Venkateswaran G.
Published: July 2011

A simple, rapid and accurate method for the determination of monoethanolamine (MEA) in PHWR steam-water circuits has been developed. MEA is added in the feed water to provide protection against corrosion while hydrazine is added to scavenge dissolved oxygen. The quantitative determination of MEA in presence of hydrazine was accomplished using derivatization ion chromatography with conductometric detection in nonsuppressed mode. A Metrosep cation 1-2 analytical column and a Metrosep cartridge were used for cation separation. A mixture of 4 mM tartaric acid, 20% acetone and 0.05 mM HNO3was used as eluent. Acetone in the mobile phase leads to the formation of different derivatives with MEA and hydrazine. The interferences due Na+and NH4 +were eliminated by adopting a simple pretreatment procedure employing OnGuard-H cartridge. The limit of detection limit of MEA was 0.1 μg mL−1and the relative standard deviation was 2% for the overall method. The recovery of MEA added was in the range 95%–102%. The method was applied to the determination of MEA in steam generator water samples.
Legendre Polynomials Spectral Approximation for the Infinite‐Dimensional Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Lv Zhongquan , Xue Mei , Wang Yushun
Published: July 2011

This paper considers a Legendre polynomials spectral approximation for the infinite‐dimensional Hamiltonian systems. As a consequence, the Legendre polynomials spectral semidiscrete system
is a Hamiltonian system for the Hamiltonian system whose Hamiltonian operator is a constant differential operator.
Perceived Symptoms in People Living with Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Andersson Susanne , Ekman Inger , Lindblad Ulf , Friberg Febe
Published: July 2011

The aim of the study was to identify symptoms in people with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and describe their experiences of living with the symptoms which they related to their condition. Twenty-one participants, from a cross-sectional population-based study, diagnosed as having IGT, were invited for an interview. The interviews were analyzed in two phases by means of a manifest and latent content analysis. The narratives included seven categories of symptoms (and more than 25 different symptoms) presented by the respondents. This study shows that symptoms such as the patient's own interpretation of different perceptions in the body must be considered, as well as signs and/or objective observations. Symptoms ought to be seen as complementary components in the health encounter and health conversation. The results of this study indicate that health professionals should increase their awareness of the balance between the implicit and the explicit bodily sensations that individuals communicate. Further studies are needed.
TEM Study of High-Temperature Precipitation of Delta Phase in Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Dehmas Moukrane , Lacaze Jacques , Niang Aliou , Viguier Bernard
Published: July 2011

Inconel 718 is widely used because of its ability to retain strength at up to 650∘C for long periods of time through coherent metastable Ni3Nb precipitation associated with a smaller volume fraction of Ni3Al precipitates. At very long ageing times at service temperature, decomposes to the stable Ni3Nb phase. This latter phase is also present above the solvus and is used for grain control during forging of alloy 718. While most works available on precipitation have been performed at temperatures below the solvus, it appeared of interest to also investigate the case where phase precipitates directly from the fcc matrix free of precipitates. This was studied by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM observations confirmed the presence of rotation-ordered domains in plates, and some unexpected contrast could be explained by double diffraction due to overlapping phases.
Blocking Hedgehog Survival Signaling at the Level of the GLI Genes Induces DNA Damage and Extensive Cell Death in Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Mazumdar Tapati , DeVecchio Jennifer , Agyeman Akwasi , Shi Ting , Houghton Janet A.
Published: July 2011

Canonical Hedgehog (HH) signaling is characterized by Smoothened (Smo)-dependent activation of the transcription factors Gli1 and Gli2, which regulate HH target genes. In human colon carcinoma cells, treatment with the Gli small-molecule inhibitor GANT61 induces extensive cell death in contrast to the Smo inhibitor cyclopamine. Here we elucidate cellular events upstream of cell death elicited by GANT61, which reveal the basis for its unique cytotoxic activity in colon carcinoma cells. Unlike cyclopamine, GANT61 induced transient cellular accumulation at G1–S (24 hours) and in early S-phase (32 hours), with elevated p21Cip1, cyclin E, and cyclin A in HT29 cells. GANT61 induced DNA damage within 24 hours, with the appearance of p-ATM and p-Chk2. Pharmacologic inhibition of Gli1 and Gli2 by GANT61 or genetic inhibition by transient transfection of the Gli3 repressor (Gli3R) downregulated Gli1 and Gli2 expression and induced γH2AX, PARP cleavage, caspase-3 activation, and cell death. GANT61 induced γH2AX nuclear foci, while transient transfection of Gli3R showed expression of Gli3R and γH2AX foci within the same nuclei in HT29, SW480, and HCT116. GANT61 specifically targeted Gli1 and Gli2 substantiated by specific inhibition of (i) direct binding of Gli1 and Gli2 to the promoters of target genes HIP1 and BCL-2, (ii) Gli-luciferase activity, and (iii) transcriptional activation of BCL-2. Taken together, these findings establish that inhibition of HH signaling at the level of the GLI genes downstream of Smo is critical in the induction of DNA damage in early S-phase, leading to cell death in human colon carcinoma cells. Cancer Res; 71(17); 5904–14. ©2011 AACR.
Chlamydia pneumoniae Induces Chemokine Expression by Platelets in Patients with Atherosclerosis
Authors: Al-Bannawi Abdelhad , Al-Wesebai Khulood , Taha Safa , Bakhiet Moiz
Published: July 2011

Objective: In this study, the role of Chlamydia pneumoniae in triggering platelets to induce the inflammatory potential chemokines CCL3, CCL5, CCL7 and CXCL8 in atherosclerotic patients was investigated. Subjects and Methods: Venous blood from control subjects (n = 35) and atherosclerotic patients (n = 35) was collected in tubes with and without EDTA. Platelets from controls and patients were separated from whole blood and then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), live C. pneumoniae and heat-treated C. pneumoniae. The ability of C. pneumoniae and its LPS to stimulate platelets and expression of CCL3, CCL5, CCL7 and CXCL8 was assessed with immunofluorescence. Immunosorbent assays were used to detect anti-C. pneumoniae antibodies in sera from patients and healthy subjects. Results: Nonstimulated platelets from patients showed significant expression of CCL3, CCL5, CCL7 and CXCL8 compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Stimulation of platelets from patients with live and heat-treated C. pneumoniae and its LPS demonstrated significant induction of chemokines compared to similarly stimulated platelets from controls (p < 0.01). After stimulation with heat-treated C. pneumoniae chemokine expression in platelets from controls was significantly lower than after stimulation with live C. pneumoniae (p < 0.01), which was not the case when platelets from patients were stimulated. Increased levels of anti-C. pneumoniae antibodies were detected in sera from patients compared to healthy subjects, suggesting prior C. pneumoniae exposure. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated an interactive link between C. pneumoniae and platelets in atherosclerotic patients, leading to induction of potential chemokines and possibly disease development.
Dexmedetomidine Use during Strabismus Surgery in Agitated Children
Authors: Mizrak Ayse , Erbagci Ibrahim , Arici Tulin , Avci Neslihan , Ganidagli Suleyman , Oner Unsal
Published: July 2011

Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of dexmedetomidine premedication before intravenous infusion of ketamine in agitated children undergoing strabismus surgery. Subjects and Methods: We enrolled 60 agitated pediatric patients, aged 4.5–11 years. The patients were randomly allocated to one of two anesthesia regimens. Group D patients were premedicated with a single dose of intravenous dexmedetomidine 0.5 µg/kg whereas group P patients received a placebo. Patients in both groups were administered intravenous ketamine 1 mg/kg i.v. over 1 min followed by a continuous infusion of ketamine 1–3 mg/kg/h i.v. (n = 30). Patients were intubated after receiving fentanyl 1 µg/kg and rocuronium bromide 0.5 mg/kg. Results: 21 (70%) patients in group D did not show the oculocardiac reflex (OCR) versus 7 (23%) in group P (p = 0.0006). The preoperative and postoperative agitation scores (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.03, respectively), the score on the Faces Pain Scale during awakening [3.0 (interquartile range, IQR 2.0–4.0) in group D and 0.0 (IQR 1.0–2.25) in group P] (p = 0.001) and at the 60th postoperative minute [IQR 2.0 (1.5–3.0) in group D and 2.0 (IQR 1.5–3.0) in group P] (p = 0.004), sore throat (26.6% in group D and 60% in group P) (p = 0.01) and analgesic requirement (20% in group D and 53% in group P) (p = 0.01) in group P were significantly higher than in group D. The Ramsay Sedation Score (RSS) in group D was significantly higher than in group P during awakening [2.0 (2.0–2.0) in group D and 4.5 (4.0–5.0) in group P] (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine premedication followed by intravenous infusion of ketamine was effective in decreasing OCR, agitation, pain, analgesic requirement in agitated children undergoing strabismus surgery.
Intravenous and Peritonsillar Infiltration of Ketamine for Postoperative Pain after Adenotonsillectomy: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Khademi Saeed , Ghaffarpasand Fariborz , Heiran Hamid Reza , Yavari Mohammad Javad , Motazedian Siavash , Dehghankhalili Maryam
Published: July 2011

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of preoperative intravenous or peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine for postoperative pain control in children following adenotonsillectomy. Patients and Methods: 78 children between 5 and 18 years of age who were scheduled for elective adenotonsillectomy were randomly assigned to four groups: group 1 (n = 19) received intravenous ketamine (0.5 mg/kg), group 2 (n = 21) intravenous normal saline, group 3 (n = 19) ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) injected through the tonsillar capsule, and group 4 (n = 19) normal saline injected in the same location. The incidence of postoperative pain and vomiting as well as the severity of postoperative pain were compared between study groups during the 6-hour postoperative period using a visual analog scale (VAS) at rest, upon swallowing saliva, drinking liquids and eating ice cream. Results: There were no demographic differences between the four groups. The incidence of postoperative pain was significantly lower in groups 1 [7 (36.8%) vs. 10 (47.6%); p = 0.032] and 3 [5 (31.5%) vs. 12 (63.2%); p = 0.001] compared with their controls. The amount (in milligrams) of pethidine and metoclopramide used for pain and nausea control was significantly lower in groups 1 (12.5 ± 5.3 vs. 19.6 ± 9.6 mg, p = 0.038, and 2.9 ± 1.1 vs. 4.6 ± 2.6 mg, p = 0.042, respectively) and 3 (8.6 ± 3.1 vs. 21.6 ± 8.4 mg, p < 0.001, and 1.6 ± 0.9 vs. 5.3 ± 3.2 mg, p = 0.002, respectively) compared with their controls. These values were also higher in group 1 compared with group 3. The VAS scores on swallowing saliva (3.9 ± 2.7 vs. 2.7 ± 1.2; p = 0.018), on drinking liquids (3.7 ± 2.6 vs. 2.8 ± 1.6; p = 0.013) and on eating ice-cream (4.3 ± 2.4 vs. 2.8 ± 1.5; p = 0.001) were also significantly higher in group 1 compared with group 3. Conclusions: Our results show that peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine was more effective in reducing the postoperative pain severity, need for analgesics and need for antiemetics. Thus, peritonsillar infiltration of ketamine is suggested for postoperative pain control in those undergoing adenotonsillectomy.
Atorvastatin Given prior to Electrical Cardioversion Does Not Affect the Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Who Are on Antiarrhythmic Therapy
Authors: Demir Kenan , Can Ilknur , Koc Fatih , Vatankulu Mehmet Akif , Ayhan Selim , Akilli Hakan , Aribas Alpay , Alihanoglu Yusuf , Altunkeser Bulent Behlul
Published: July 2011

Objective: In this study, our aim was to evaluate the effect of a higher dose of atorvastatin on the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation (AF) after electrical cardioversion (EC) in addition to antiarrhythmic therapy. Subjects and Methods: 48 patients with persistent AF were included in this study. The patients were randomized to an atorvastatin 40-mg treatment group and a control group. Atorvastatin was started 3 weeks before EC and was continued for 2 months after EC. EC was performed using biphasic shocks after 3 weeks of treatment with the orally administered anticoagulant warfarin. Lipid and inflammatory parameters (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, white blood cell count and fibrinogen level) were evaluated at the baseline and before EC. The endpoint of this study was electrocardiographically confirmed recurrence of AF of >10 min. Results: There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics and lipid and inflammatory marker levels between the treatment and control groups. Total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels were significantly decreased in patients taking atorvastatin for 2 months compared with baseline values (174 ± 31 vs. 129 ± 25 mg/dl, p = 0.001, and 112 ± 23 vs. 62 ± 20 mg/dl, p = 0.001, respectively), while no significant change occurred in control patients (168 ± 26 vs. 182 ± 29 mg/dl, p = 0.07, and 99 ± 18 vs. 108 ± 26 mg/dl, p = 0.1, respectively). At the end of the 2-month follow-up period, 9 patients (20.5%) experienced AF recurrence, and there was no significant difference in AF recurrence rate between the treatment and control groups (26 vs. 13%; p = 0.2). Conclusion: Atorvastatin therapy prior to EC does not prevent the recurrence of arrhythmia in patients with persistent AF who are receiving antiarrhythmic therapy.
Hypothermia with Pneumonia: A Rare Presentation of Brucellosis
Authors: El Ghoussein Hossam , Hegazi Mohamed Osama
Published: July 2011

Objective: To report a very rare form of brucellosis presenting with hypothermia and pneumonia. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 41-year-old male shepherd presented with a depressed level of consciousness. Clinically, his rectal temperature was 29.5°C, and he was cold, apathetic, hyporeflexic, and hypotensive, with atrial fibrillation. He had clinical and radiological evidence of bilateral bronchopneumonia. Blood culture and serologic testing were positive for Brucella melitensis. The patient recovered completely after proper management of the hypothermia and treatment of the brucellosis with antibiotics (doxycycline 100 mg orally twice daily for 6 weeks and streptomycin 1 g i.m. daily for 21 days). Conclusion: This case shows that brucellosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of septicemic patients presenting with hypothermia.