bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Properties of CD8+Lymphocytes in Patients with Pleural Plaque and Malignant Mesothelioma
Authors: Kumagai-Takei Naoko , Nishimura Yasumitsu , Maeda Megumi , Hayashi Hiroaki , Matsuzaki Hidenori , Lee Suni , Kishimoto Takumi , Fukuoka Kazuya , Nakano Takashi , Otsuki Takemi
Published: July 2014

It is known that asbestos exposure can cause malignant mesothelioma (MM) and that CD8+T cells play a critical role in antitumor immunity. We examined the properties of peripheral blood CD8+lymphocytes from asbestos-exposed patients with pleural plaque (PL) and MM. The percentage of CD3+CD8+cells in PBMCs did not differ among the three groups, although the total numbers of PBMCs of the PL and MM groups were lower than those of the healthy volunteers (HV). The percentage of IFN-γ+and CD107a+cells in PMA/ionomycin-stimulated CD8+lymphocytes did not differ among the three groups. Percentages of perforin+cells and CD45RA−cells in fresh CD8+lymphocytes of PL and MM groups were higher than those of HV. Percentages of granzyme B+and perforin+cells in PMA/ionomycin-stimulated CD8+lymphocytes were higher in PL group compared with HV. The MM group showed a decrease of perforin level in CD8+lymphocytes after stimulation compared with patients with PL. These results indicate that MM patients have characteristics of impairment in stimulation-induced cytotoxicity of peripheral blood CD8+lymphocytes and that PL and MM patients have a common character of functional alteration in those lymphocytes, namely, an increase in memory cells, possibly related to exposure to asbestos.
Reconfigurable Ring Filter with Controllable Frequency Response
Authors: Ab Wahab Norfishah , Mohd Salleh Mohd Khairul , Ismail Khan Zuhani , Abd Rashid Nur Emileen
Published: July 2014

Reconfigurable ring filter based on single-side-access ring topology is presented. Using capacitive tuning elements, the electrical length of the ring can be manipulated to shift the nominal center frequency to a desired position. A synthesis is developed to determine the values of the capacitive elements. To show the advantage of the synthesis, it is applied to the reconfigurable filter design using RF lumped capacitors. The concept is further explored by introducing varactor-diodes to continuously tune the center frequency of the ring filter. For demonstration, two prototypes of reconfigurable ring filters are realized using microstrip technology, simulated, and measured to validate the proposed concept. The reconfigured filter using lumped elements is successfully reconfigured from 2 GHz to 984.4 MHz and miniaturized by 71% compared to the filter directly designed at the same reconfigured frequency, while, for the filter using varactor-diodes, the frequency is chosen from 1.10 GHz to 1.38 GHz spreading over 280 MHz frequency range. Both designs are found to be compact with acceptable insertion loss and high selectivity.
Liposomal Formulation of Turmerone-Rich Hexane Fractions fromCurcuma longaEnhances Their Antileishmanial Activity
Authors: Amaral Ana Claudia F. , Gomes Luciana A. , Silva Jefferson Rocha de A. , Ferreira José Luiz P. , Ramos Aline de S. , Rosa Maria do Socorro S. , Vermelho Alane B. , Rodrigues Igor A.
Published: July 2014

Promastigote forms ofLeishmania amazonensiswere treated with different concentrations of two fractions ofCurcuma longacortex rich in turmerones and their respective liposomal formulations in order to evaluate growth inhibition and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). In addition, cellular alterations of treated promastigotes were investigated under transmission and scanning electron microscopies. LipoRHIC and LipoRHIWC presented lower MIC, 5.5 and 12.5 μg/mL, when compared to nonencapsulated fractions (125 and 250 μg/mL), respectively, and to ar-turmerone (50 μg/mL). Parasite growth inhibition was demonstrated to be dose-dependent. Important morphological changes as rounded body and presence of several roles on plasmatic membrane could be seen onL. amazonensispromastigotes after treatment with subinhibitory concentration (2.75 μg/mL) of the most active LipoRHIC. In that sense, the hexane fraction from the turmeric cortex ofCurcuma longaincorporated in liposomal formulation (LipoRHIC) could represent good strategy for the development of new antileishmanial agent.
Current Evidence regarding Prophylactic Antibiotics in Head and Neck and Maxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Kreutzer Kilian , Storck Katharina , Weitz Jochen
Published: July 2014

Antibiotic prophylaxis is commonly used to decrease the rate of infections in head and neck surgery. The aim of this paper is to present the available evidence regarding the application of antibiotic prophylaxis in surgical procedures of the head and neck region in healthy patients. A systemic literature review based on Medline and Embase databases was performed. All reviews and meta-analyses based on RCTs in English from 2000 to 2013 were included. Eight out of 532 studies fulfilled all requirements. Within those, only seven different operative procedures were analyzed. Evidence exists for the beneficial use of prophylactic antibiotics for tympanostomy, orthognathic surgery, and operative tooth extractions. Unfortunately, little high-level evidence exists regarding the use of prophylactic antibiotics in head and neck surgery. In numerous cases, no clear benefit of antibiotic prophylaxis has been shown, particularly considering their potential adverse side effects. Antibiotics are often given unnecessarily and are administered too late and for too long. Furthermore, little research has been performed on the large number of routine cases in the above-mentioned areas of specialization within the last few years, although questions arising with respect to the treatment of high-risk patients or of specific infections are discussed on a broad base.
Magnetic Resonance Standard for Cavernous Sinus Hemangiomas: Proposal for a Diagnostic Test
Authors: He Kangmin , Chen Liang , Zhu Wei , Mao Ying
Published: July 2014

Background: By definition, a cavernous sinus is a vascular plexus. A hemangioma is a vascular tumor which is rich in vascular plexus and caused by vascular deformity or tumor-like proliferation. Radiosurgery can effectively control the growth of smaller cavernous sinus hemangiomas (CSHs). This paper aimed to quantify the MRI characteristics of CSHs which provided a basis for further treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of the MRI characteristics of 133 cavernous sinus lesion patients between January 2006 and December 2009, and none of them was diagnosed without histology. Two groups were set apart according to the pathological results: a CSH group (24 patients) and a non-CSH group (109 patients). The latter was further divided into 3 categories: a meningioma group (33 patients), a neurilemmoma group (37 patients) and a miscellaneous group (39 patients). A single-factor χ2 analysis was performed to analyze the data on the 12 MRI characteristics. Results: T2-weighted ultrahigh signal, signal uniformity, dumbbell-like appearance and infiltration of the sellar region were considered statistically significant for the differentiation of CSHs from non-CSHs. If these 4 items served as the diagnostic criteria, the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy was 87.5, 96.3 and 94.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Smaller CSHs can be treated by radiosurgery directly, without performance of a pathological biopsy.
Pedogenic alteration of illite in subtropical China
Authors: Han W. , Hong H. L. , Yin K. , Churchman G. J. , Li Z. H. , Chen T.
Published: July 2014

Pedogenic alteration of illite from red earth sediments in Jiujiang in subtropical China was investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). Illite, hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite (HIV), kaolinite and mixed-layer illite-HIV (I-HIV) are present in the soils. The characteristic reflections of the clay phases were 14 Å, 10–14 Å, 10 Å, and 7 Å, respectively. After Mg-glycerol saturations, the 14 Å peak of the samples did not expand, and after heating at 350°C and 550°C it shifted to 13.8 Å and 12 Å respectively, with no residual 14 Å reflection, suggesting the occurrence of hydroxy-interlayered vermiculite. The randomly interstratified I-HIV clays were characterized by a broad peak at 10–14 Å, which did not change its position after Mg-glycerol saturation, but collapsed to 10 Å after heating at 350°C and 550°C. HRTEM analysis showed different lattice fringes of 12 Å, 10 Å and 7 Å . Mixed-layer I-HIV, HIV-K and illite-kaolinite (I-K) were observed in the HRTEM images which represented the intermediate phases during illite alteration. The merging of two 10 Å illite layers into a 12 Å HIV layer, lateral transformation of one HIV layer into one kaolinite layer and alteration of one illite layer into two kaolinite layers illustrated the mechanisms of illite-to-HIV, HIV-to-kaolinite and illite-tokaolinite transformation, respectively. The proposed pedogenic alteration of illite and the weathering sequence of the clay minerals in Jiujiang is illite → I-HIV → HIV → HIV-K → kaolinite. In addition, illite may transform directly to kaolinite.
Η διδασκαλία της ιστορίας από πηγές και η διαμόρφωση ιστορικής συνείδησης στη δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση
Authors: Μαμούρα Μαρία
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study is to illuminate the teaching of history using historical sources, mainly in terms of its contribution in shaping historical consciousness of students and fostering historical reasoning.As for the type of research, it was considered as more appropriate the qualitative research, which a) aims at a holistic picture of the phenomenon under study in its natural environment, b) illuminates the view of subjects and c) develops conceptual categories or confirms existing theories (research conducted in acad. year 2007-2008 and focused on systematic observation of seven history teachers who teach history at theoretical direction in third grade of Lyceums of Athens Metropolitan Area). The participants were seven history teachers, as they are those who give form to the institutional framework and transform a variety of ways according to their perceptions, beliefs, personal theories etc., defining their teaching options.The survey showed that, although curricula restrictions drastically limit teachers’ choices, there are different ways of teaching history and of developing historical consciousness. The study of 7 cases showed that teaching with historical sources is a methodological tool for the development of historical thought and consciousness, when teachers are aware of their epistemological conceptions about history and of the purpose for which they teach history. The competency of teachers for pedagogical representation of historical knowledge (pedagogical content knowledge) does not seem to be a key factor in strengthening the historical reasoning and shaping historical consciousness in students. Instead, this competency seems to be in line with other aspects of the teaching profile of teachers: the academic knowledge of the subject, the adequacy of their epistemological conceptions about history, their cultural knowledge, and the consistency or inconsistency of their perceptions and teaching practices
Heavy Metals Distribution in Water Bodies of Metropolis Recreational Areas
Authors: Сорокин  , Sorokin A. , Сотникова  , Sotnikova Elena
Published: July 2014

Analysis of deposit environment (i.e. soil, water and sediment) pollution of Bolshoi Troparevskiy pryd, Moscow with heavy metals and other elements has been carried out. The chemistry studies were performed by mass spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma (ICP-MS). Calculations of coefficients of variation and concentration of metals in the test environments, which can indicate uneven distribution of metals, have been made. Metals with exceeded background concentrations and border values have been determined.
Bio-Energetics and Utilization of Greenhouse Gases
Authors: Хазанов  , Khazanov Grigoriy , Курин  , Kurin Valeriy , Апарушкина  , Aparushkina Margarita
Published: July 2014

The paper considers environmental problems of hydrocarbon fuel usage. The assessment of the area necessary for cultivation of algae biomass and its further use as solid fuel at thermal power plant has been carried out. Expediency of production of microalgae biomass in the process of photosynthesisas raw material for biofuel production is revealed.
Una Propuesta de Aprendizaje Cooperativo
Authors: Cadoche Lilian
Published: July 2014

..
Desarrollo del sistema financiero y crecimiento económico. Teoría y evidencia empírica hasta la presente crisis financiera internacional.
Authors: Buchieri Flavio
Published: July 2014

El presente artículo ofrece una revisión de la literatura a nivel internacional sobre las vinculaciones existentes entre el desarrollo del sistema financiero y el crecimiento de la actividad económica. La amplia bibliografía existente en la materia intenta explicar tanto el rol provisto por los intermediarios financieros como el impacto que su accionar brinda a la hora de mitigar las fricciones de mercado tanto en relación al diseño de incentivos como a la reducción de restricciones de los agentes económicos, afectando las tasas de inversión y ahorro, la innovación tecnológica y, por ende, el crecimiento económico de largo plazo. En la segunda parte del mismo, se detallan los principales resultados empíricos a nivel mundial que sustentan los postulados teóricos presentados en la primera parte.
De Mentes y Emprendedores
Authors: Ambrosini Marcela Susana , López Gerardo Daniel
Published: July 2014

Se pueden distinguir dos grandes enfoques conceptuales en el análisisdel emprendedorismo: por un lado, el énfasis sobre las característicaspersonales de los hacedores (innatas o adquiridas) y por el otro, la consideraciónde las influencias contextuales (entorno social y económico, formación).Si bien, indudablemente, ambos aspectos tienen influencia sobrela cuestión, el hecho de que existan emprendedores con independencia delo favorable o desfavorable de las condiciones políticas y económicas odel nivel de desarrollo de cada país (y de cada región dentro de un país)hace que nos inclinemos por la personalidad y la actitud de los individuoscomo parámetros de mayor influencia que los contextuales. Avanzandosobre dicha consideración, nuestra hipótesis básica es que los emprendedoresno presentan rasgos psicológicos que los distingan particularmentede lo que es considerado normal en el grupo social al que pertenecen(cualquiera sea éste). Por lo tanto resulta deseable entender cómo hacenpara encontrar oportunidades y negocios donde otros solo ven problemas.Con este objeto, postulamos que la auto-percepción, el análisis de cómose ven a sí mismos los emprendedores, puede permitirnos encontrar eseintangible que motoriza el empeño que ponen en llevar adelante su ideahasta concretarla. Adoptamos así la metodología de entrevistas guiadasde larga duración, tanto a emprendedores potenciales como a emprendedorescon negocios en marcha. El trabajo de campo permite concluir queel factor de mayor importancia que los hace perseverar con la idea hastaconcretarla, se relaciona más con la intuición que con el razonamiento, demanera que no es la evaluación formal del proyecto con herramientas degestión y toma de decisiones, sino su compromiso personal con la idea loque motoriza su accionar. Esta conclusión básica se presenta como unpunto de partida para profundizar la caracterización del emprendedorismocon un enfoque transdisciplinario que, además del perfil psicológico quehemos enfatizado en esta oportunidad, determine, considere y cuantifiquela importancia relativa de otros factores que afectan al emprendedor y aléxito de su emprendimiento.
Los Ciclos Económicos y los Recursos Tributarios en Argentina y en la Provincia de Santa Fe. Período 1993-2006. Una Aproximación.
Authors: Dillon Liliana Graciela , Peralta Liliana Adela
Published: July 2014

El análisis de la serie y la tendencia del producto de un sistema económico permiten distinguir cuatro fases que se suceden en los denominados ciclos económicos: prosperidad, crisis, recuperación y depresión.Dado que las variables macroeconómicas no se modifican en forma aislada, los cambios del producto van acompañados en oscilaciones enlos precios y en el empleo, etc.que impactan inexorablemente en las condiciones de vida de la población en general.El análisis del PBI y del Producto Bruto Geográfico (PBG) correspondiente a la Provincia de Santa Fe para el período 1993-2006 posibilita visualizar las variaciones que ha tenido la economía en los últimos tiempos y por lo tanto, la identificación de las fases mencionadas.Los recursos tributarios, definidos como detracción de la riqueza del sector privado por parte del sector público, acompañan estos movimientos tanto en términos nacionales como provinciales, al crecer en lapsos expansivos y contraerse en los depresivos. Sin embargo, estos cambios no implican necesariamente alteraciones en el peso relativo que los tributos tienen en la masa recaudatoria: en líneas generales,los tributos provinciales no registran variaciones de consideración en su participación toda vez que el PBG crece o decrece, lo que sí sucede en las variables nacionales.
La Inferencia Estadística como Metodología. Análisis de Contenido de Ideas Fundamentales (IEF))
Authors: Meyer Roberto , Debiaggi Marta , Giménez Nerina
Published: July 2014

¿Qué sucede en el aula de clase con la Inferencia Estadística enseñada como metodología y no como una matemática más; y con eje en la naturaleza del saber estadístico manifestado a través de ideas fundamentales?. Este artículo reproduce y analiza experiencias reales realizadas sobre la base de las respuestas a consignas experimentales realizadas a alumnos y docentes en distintos contextos. Se desarrollan y describen actividades que permiten el análisis del contenido de escritos de docentes y alumnos acerca de ideas estadísticas fundamentales para la enseñanza y aprendizaje de la inferencia estadística en carreras de Ciencias Sociales: Variabilidad, Frecuencias Empíricas y Frecuencias Teóricas, Población Estadística, Muestra al Azar, Incertidumbre vs. Determinismo, Técnicas Empíricas vs. Métodos Matemáticos; conceptos que fueran definidos como IEF en Meyer (2005, Tesis Doctoral). El trabajo que aquí se presenta, y sus resultados, reafirma el concepto manifestado en otras instancias, en las que la naturaleza de la Inferencia Estadística se presenta diferenciando el “conocer” del “saber”, reconociendo y aceptando que el dominio de la inferencia estadística en general se ubica en el campo del “saber hacer” y/o “saber cómo hacer”; siendo por lo tanto indispensable la construcción de procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje que contemplen esta característica de la naturaleza disciplinar de la Estadística.
La cohesión social: continuidades y rupturas
Authors: Cantard Albor
Published: July 2014

El Congreso que nos reúne hoy refiere a la problemática de la cohesión social que, nuevamente, retorna como preocupación central del conjunto de actores sociales, convocando tanto a gobiernos e instituciones de desarrollo territorial como a cientistas sociales, politólogos y organizaciones de la sociedad civil preocupados, estos últimos, frente a la necesidad de dar respuestas mediante la formulación de políticas públicas que mitiguen y reviertan los problemas de crecimiento, desigualdad, fragmentación y exclusión social. La sociedad actual no sólo presenta un profundo deterioro en los lazos sociales y de solidaridad, sino que también está cada vez más expuesta a riesgos globales; riesgos que, para Ulrich Beck (2008), remiten a las crisis ecológicas; al deterioro ambiental; a las asimetrías sociales y económicas crecientes entre los países; a la colisión de intereses intergeneracionales en materia de sustentabilidad; a los riesgos del sistema económico–financiero internacional; y todo ello en un contexto, a su vez, de complejidad e incertidumbre crecientes que caracterizan al mundo en el que vivimos.
Algunas reflexiones en torno a los desafíos en la formación de trabajo social para la inclusión social
Authors: Gallo Sandra , Vallejos Indiana
Published: July 2014

Los caminos transitados y las producciones colectivas de la histórica Escuela de Servicio Social de Santa Fe, la elaboración del nuevo plan de estudios y la creación de la Licenciatura en Trabajo Social, incorporada a la oferta de carreras de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral, proponen la oportunidad de plantear(nos) algunas reflexiones en torno a la inclusión social y el lugar de la universidad pública. Nuestras reflexiones están ancladas en la formación de trabajadores y trabajadoras sociales sin pretensión de generalizaciones, pero reconociendo que la singularidad de una formación profesional se inscribe en una discusión que la trasciende: lo singular contiene y expresa lo general. Nos reconocemos habitantes de un tiempo–espacio marcado por las relaciones de desigualdad social, producto de condiciones estructurales que generaron, entre otras consecuencias, una cierta “explosión de la multiplicidad” que no considera a todas y todos como igualmente legítimos; la sobre abundancia de información a la que no todos accedemos en el mismo tiempo ni con las mismas posibilidades y la consecuente apropiación simbólica diferencial; la presión mediática y cultural por el consumo —para ser reconocido como parte del conjunto social—coexistente con la pobreza. En suma, relaciones que producen exclusión social. Un tiempo–espacio en el que, a la vez, se rediscute socialmente la asistencia social y la responsabilidad estatal en laprovisión de los derechos sociales; lo que de algún modo implica poner en discusión las relaciones excluyentes. Entendemos que la exclusión social es producto de relaciones sociales de creciente pérdida de la condición de ciudadanía de algunos sectores, expuestos a la desprotección social y culpabilizados por su propia condición.
Construcción de ciudadanía y educación al desarrollo. Fronteras y horizontes de una experiencia local
Authors: Sabatier María Angélica , Gallo Eduardo , Dolzani Magalí , Cerioni Laura
Published: July 2014

“Construir un Desarrollo Posible” ha sido una intervención interinstitucional gestada en el marco de la cooperación al desarrollo realizada con recursos del Programa EUROPaid, coordinada por el Gobierno de la Regione Marche (Italia), y llevada a cabo por organizaciones no gubernamentales europeas, la Universidad de Maceratta (Italia), la Municipalidad de la Ciudad de Santa Fe —donde se llevó adelante la experiencia de la que aquí se da cuenta— y el gobierno de la provincia del mismo nombre, que conformaron un diversificado conjunto de socios.Por su estructura, el proyecto —apoyado en los Objetivos del Milenio y a partir de un objetivo central común— desplegó acciones con propósitos particulares en cada territorio y posibilitó el contacto con las mejores experiencias italianas y europeas en redes de Educación al Desarrollo, teniendo en cuenta —al mismo tiempo— fundamentalmente la visión local sobre las relaciones entre construcción de ciudadanía, Educación al Desarrollo y fortalecimiento de la sociedad civil.
Derechos humanos: universidad, violencia de Estado y construcción de ciudadanía
Authors: Marotta Cecilia
Published: July 2014

Durante el año 2011 se desarrolló en Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad de la República Oriental del Uruguay la pasantía para egresados “Acompañamiento Psicosocial a Testigos en Juicios contra Terrorismo de Estado”.El equipo universitario estuvo integrado por tres docentes responsables de la pasantía y seis pasantes que conformaron el dispositivo de acompañamiento. La capacitación se realizó durante los meses de setiembre a diciembre y acompañó a un número de quince testigos que debían declarar en los juicios realizados en Argentina comprendidos dentro de la causa “Plan sistemático de robo y apropiación de niños y bebés”.
El emprendimiento y la innovación como fundamento de la creación de pequeñas y medianas empresas
Authors: Talín Julio , López Cuesta Soledad
Published: July 2014

La importancia de la apropiación de los resultados de la innovación por parte de la sociedad conforma un entorno ideal y es factor fundamental que potencia el desarrollo del territorio. La ciencia, la tecnología y la innovación son ejes del desarrollo económico y social actual y deben proyectarse en la construcción de una sociedad equitativa que ofrezca igualdad de oportunidades a la comunidad asumiendo un papel fundamental en facilitar y activar la transformación de la sociedad, en una sociedad y economía del conocimiento. Estos factores son esenciales para acelerar el crecimiento económico y aumentar el nivel de desarrollo humano y social del territorio, puesto que permite a la capacidad creadora, el mejoramiento de capacidades de auto–organización social, la elevación del bienestar y la solución de muchos problemas que generan pobreza y conflictos.
Capacitación para gestión de la información hídrica en la ciudad de Santa Fe. Una experiencia piloto.
Authors: Del Valle Morresi María , Cristina Ignacio , Contini Guillermo , Marcus Ramiro
Published: July 2014

El deterioro del medioambiente es una amenaza que el mundo no ha superado aún. Muchas son las investigaciones realizadas acerca del cambio climático con la intención de buscar las causas de la ocurrencia de las diferentes catástrofes sucedidas en los últimos años. La coincidencia de numerosos estudios realizados recae en la acción del hombre como factor principal de las alteraciones del ciclo hidrológico y en la necesidad de concientizar a los ciudadanos sobre la importancia de la preservación de los recursos naturales.En Argentina, así como en el resto de los países de América Latina, en las últimas décadas han aumentado significativamente los daños que causan eventos naturales extremos, ya sean de origen meteorológico o geofísico, que devienen en desastres no sólo ecológicos sino económicos y sociales de envergadura. En la mayoría de los casos, estos desastres no sólo tienen origen natural sino también antrópico, es decir son causados por acciones humanas, o éstas han contribuido fuertemente a que ocurran. De este modo se puede afirmar que existe una construcción social del desastre (CEPAL, 2003).
Structural basis for PTPA interaction with the invariant C-terminal tail of PP2A
Authors: Löw Christian , Quistgaard Esben M. , Kovermann Michael , Anandapadamanaban Madhanagopal , Balbach Jochen , Nordlund Pär
Published: July 2014

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a highly abundant heterotrimeric Ser/Thr phosphatase involved in the regulation of a variety of signaling pathways. The PP2A phosphatase activator (PTPA) is an ATP-dependent activation chaperone, which plays a key role in the biogenesis of active PP2A. The C-terminal tail of the catalytic subunit of PP2A is highly conserved and can undergo a number of posttranslational modifications that serve to regulate the function of PP2A. Here we have studied structurally the interaction of PTPA with the conserved C-terminal tail of the catalytic subunit carrying different posttranslational modifications. We have identified an additional interaction site for the invariant C-terminal tail of the catalytic subunit on PTPA, which can be modulated via posttranslational modifications. We show that phosphorylation of Tyr307PP2A-C or carboxymethylation of Leu309PP2A-C abrogates or diminishes binding of the C-terminal tail, whereas phosphorylation of Thr304PP2A-C is of no consequence. We suggest that the invariant C-terminal residues of the catalytic subunit can act as affinity enhancer for different PP2A interaction partners, including PTPA, and a different ‘code’ of posttranslational modifications can favour interactions to one subunit over others.
Influence of the polypeptide environment next to amyloidogenic peptides on fibril formation
Authors: Damm Steffen , Schwarz Elisabeth
Published: July 2014

Alternative folding or fibril formation of proteins is associated with many diseases. Although uncertainty remains for many diseases as to whether the fibrils themselves constitute the main pathogenicity factor, the biophysics or molecular steps leading to fibrils cannot easily be reduced to a common denominator. To date, it is known that fibrils can form (i) upon aberrant (over-)production or false processing, (ii) upon infection with prions that act as seeds and induce unfolding of a thus far native protein – as has been shockingly experienced during the bovine spongiform encephalopathy episode, (iii) when mutations are present that increase the propensity of an otherwise stable protein to aggregate, or (iv) when mutation decreases the overall stability of an individual protein. This review intends to highlight some of the biochemical and biophysical mechanisms that favor fibril formation. Special emphasis is given on the relevance of the polypeptide environment of amyloidogenic segments and the currently discussed driving forces of fibril formation.
Isolated Contralateral Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: An Unusual Manifestation of Pontine Infarct
Authors: Muttikkal Thomas Jose Eluvathingal , Kesser Bradley W , Mukherjee Sugoto
Published: July 2014

Unilateral, acute onset sensorineural hearing loss (“sudden sensorineural hearing loss” [SSNHL]) as an isolated event without other associated neurological deficits usually results from a lesion of the cochlea. Lesions in the ascending central auditory pathways cranial to the cochlear nucleus seldom result in unilateral hearing loss due to decussation of the central auditory pathways at multiple levels. We describe a patient with a tiny acute infarct in the right pons resulting in isolated acute onset left-sided SSHNL, without any other associated acute neurological deficits.
Efficacy of Near-Infrared Spectrometry for Monitoring the Cerebral Effects of Severe Dilutional Anemia
Authors: Cem Arıtürk , Serpil Ustalar , Fevzi Toraman , Murat Ökten , Ümit Güllü , Esin Erkek , Pınar Uysal , Sahin Sensy , Hasan Karabulut , Cem Alhan
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Clear guidelines for red cell transfusion during cardiac surgery have not yet been established. The current focus on blood conservation during cardiac surgery has increased the urgency to determine the minimum safe hematocrit for these patients. The aim of this study was to determine whether monitoring of cerebral regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) via near-infrared spectrometry (NIRS) is effective for assessing the cerebral effects of severe dilutional anemia during elective coronary arterial bypass graft surgery (CABG).

Methods: The prospective observational study involved patients who underwent cerebral rSO2 monitoring by NIRS during elective isolated first-time CABG: an anemic group (N=15) (minimum Hemoglobin (Hb) N=15) (Hb >8 g/dL during CPB). Mean arterial pressure (MAP), pump blood flow, blood lactate level, pCO2, pO2 at five time points and cross-clamp time, extracorporeal circulation time were recorded for each patient. Group results statistically were compared.

Results: The anemic group had significantly lower mean preoperative Hb than the control group (10.3 mg/dL versus 14.2 mg/dL; P = .001). The lowest Hb levels were observed in the hypothermic period of CPB in the anemic group. None of the controls exhibited a >20% decrease in cerebral rSO2. Eleven (73.3%) of the anemic patients required an increase in pump blood flow to raise their cerebral rSO2.

Conclusions: In this study, the changes in cerebral rSO2 in the patients with low Hb were within acceptable limits, and this was in concordance with the blood lactate levels and blood-gas analysis. It can be suggested that NIRS monitoring of cerebral rSO2 can assist in decision making related to blood transfusion and dilutional anemia during CPB.
A Case Report on Concomitant Coronary Artery Bypass Operation and Renal Transplantation
Authors: Ozen Yucel , Sarikaya Sabit , Atlas O. , Cekmecelioglu D. , Kirali Kann , Bayezid �mer
Published: July 2014

Renal transplantation is successfully implemented in patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. We performed concomitant coronary bypass surgery and renal transplantation in a patient found to have a left main coronary artery lesion after coronary angiography, which was performed in our clinic during preoperative evaluation of renal transplantation. We suggest the application of coronary-artery bypass grafting (CABG) or stent implantation 2 months after renal transplantation in asymptomatic patients with coronary artery disease. But, if severe coronary artery disease is detected in symptomatic patients, we suggest the concurrent application CABG and renal transplantation.
Variability in IRBs Regarding Parental Acceptance of Passive Consent
Authors: Higgerson Renee A. , Olsho Lauren E.W. , Christie LeeAnn M. , Rehder Kyle , Doksum Teresa , Gedeit Rainer , Giuliano John S. , Brennan Beth , Wendlandt Rachael , Randolph Adrienne G.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE:

Passive, opt-out recruitment strategies have the potential to improve efficiency and enlarge the participant pool for clinical studies. We report on the feasibility of using a passive consent strategy for a multicenter pediatric study.

METHODS:

We assessed the response to passive and active control recruitment strategies used in a multicenter pediatric cohort study and describe the variability in acceptance among institutional review boards (IRBs) and parents of pediatric patients.

RESULTS:

Twenty-six pediatric centers submitted IRB applications; 24 centers participated. Sixteen IRBs approved the proposed passive recruitment strategy, and 6 IRBs required active consent strategies; 2 centers used a modified participation mode using control subjects from neighboring centers. In all, 4529 potential participants were identified across 22 centers. In the pre-enrollment phase, opt-out rates were significantly lower in the passive consent group compared with the active recruitment centers (1.6% vs 11.8%; P < .001). During the enrollment phase, however, refusal rates in the passive consent group were significantly higher (38.1% vs 12.2%; P = .004). The overall refusal rate across both groups was 33.3%.

CONCLUSIONS:

IRB variability in interpretation and application of regulations affects consistency of study procedure across sites and may reduce validity of study findings. Opt-out consent allowed us to create a large representative pool of control subjects. Parents were more likely to refuse to be approached for a study in the pre-enrollment phase when active consent was used, but were more likely to decline actual study enrollment when passive consent was used in the pre-enrollment period.
Hookah Use Among US High School Seniors
Authors: Palamar Joseph J. , Zhou Sherry , Sherman Scott , Weitzman Michael
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Prevalence of hookah use is increasing significantly among adolescents. This study aimed to delineate demographic and socioeconomic correlates of hookah use among high school seniors in the United States. We hypothesized that more impoverished adolescents and those who smoked cigarettes would be more likely to use hookahs.

METHODS:

Data were examined for 5540 high school seniors in Monitoring the Future (years 2010–2012), an annual nationally representative survey of high school students in the United States. Using data weights provided by Monitoring the Future, we used multivariable binary logistic regression to delineate correlates of hookah use in the last 12 months.

RESULTS:

Eighteen percent of students reported hookah use in the past year. Compared with white students, black students were at lower odds for use (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.27, P < .0001). High parent education increased the odds for use (AOR = 1.58, P < .001), and student weekly income from a job of >$50/week (AOR = 1.26, P < .05) or $11 to $50 per week from other sources (AOR = 1.35, P < .01) also increased odds for use. Males and urban students were also at higher odds for use, as were users of alcohol, marijuana, and other illicit substances. Former cigarette smokers were at higher risk, and current smokers were at highest risk for use.

CONCLUSIONS:

Adolescents of higher socioeconomic status appear to be at particularly high risk for hookah use in the United States. Prevention efforts must target this group as prevalence continues to increase.
A Novel Method for Judging Health/Degradation of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kaneko Futao , Kawakami Takahiro , Baba Akira , Shinbo Kazunari , Kato Keizo , Miyazaki Shigetoshi , Shimizu Koichi , Sato Kenichi , Hanaoka Osamu
Published: July 2014

A novel and fundamental method was reported to judge states of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) using the capacitance and the voltage of the cells that were estimated from the real-time currents and voltage characteristics of the cells. We measured the differential capacitance, that is, dQ/dV or delta Q/ delta V that is equal to the currents (I) divided by differential voltages (dV/dt) calculated from the current and the voltage characteristics of the cell during the charging/ discharging, where Q is the charge that flows through the cell, V is the voltage of the cell and t is time. It is thought that the capacitance decrease with the degradation of the cell because the effective area of the electrodes is decreasing due to formation of undesirable compounds. The differential capacitance in some specific voltage range for the LIBs was approximately directly proportional to the state of the degradation of the cell. Therefore, it is concluded that the novel method is very useful to judge the state of the LIBs.
Interaction volume of electron beam in carbon nanomaterials: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Yasuda Masaaki , Wakuda Shinya , Asayama Yoshiki , Kawata Hiroaki , Hirai Yoshihiko
Published: July 2014

A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was performed to study the interaction volume of electron beam in carbon nanomaterials. The interaction between incident electron and carbon atom in the target materials during electron irradiation is introduced by the relativistic binary collision theory. The motion of each atom in the material under electron irradiation is calculated with the MD simulation. The primary energy dependence of the interaction volume in the carbon nanotube and the multi-layered graphene are studied. The secondary damages caused by the knock-on atoms are also discussed.
Post-Conditioning and Reperfusion Injury in the Treatment of Stroke
Authors: Simon Roger
Published: July 2014

Endogenous mechanisms of protection against ischemia can be demonstrated in brain and other organs. The induction of such protection is via a response to sub lethal stress which induces “preconditioning”. The preconditioned organ is then “tolerant” to injury from subsequent severe stress of the same or different etiology. Protection is substantial (70% reduction) but delayed in onset and is transient. Gene expression is unique between brains preconditioned, injured (stroke) or made tolerant. Thus, preconditioning reprograms the response to lethal ischemic stress (stroke), reprogrammed from an injury induction response to a neuroprotective processes. Postconditioning refers to attenuation of injurious processes occurring during reperfusion of ischemic brain. Transient mechanical interruption of reperfusion induces post-conditioning which can attenuate reperfusion injury. Post-conditioning protects ischemic brain by decreasing reperfusion induced oxygen free radical formation. The free radicals produce injury via mitochondrial damage which can be repaired experimentally. Post-conditioning produces neuroprotection as potent as experimental preconditioning. The recognition of broad based gene silencing (suppression of thousands of genes) as the phenotype of the preconditioned, ischemic tolerant brain, may explain failure of all single target drugs for stroke. As risks of reperfusion injury accompany treatment for acute stroke, endogenous neuroprotective and repair mechanisms offer translational stroke therapy.
L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria: A case report
Authors: Jovic Nebojsa , Kosac Ana , Koprivsek Katarina
Published: July 2014

Introduction. L-2-Hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) is an autosomal
recessive neurometabolic disease with a slowly progressive course and
characterized by increased levels of hydroxyglutaric acid in urine,
cerebrospinal fluid and plasma. In this condition clinical features mainly
consist of mental deterioration, ataxia and motor deficits. Case Outline. The
patient is a 16-year-old girl, the first and only child of healthy,
non-consanguineous parents of Serbian origin. At the age of 4 years her walk
became unsteady and ataxic. Other signs of cerebellar involvement were soon
observed. Head circumference was above two standard deviations (55 cm). Mild
mental retardation was revealed by formal intelligence testing (IQ 60). MR
examination of the brain showed confluent subcortical white matter lesions
spread centripetally, and atrophy of the cerebellar vermis with involvement
of dentate nuclei, without deep white matter abnormalities. Laboratory
investigation revealed increased amounts and a very large peak of HGA in
urine and plasma. Enantiomeric analysis confirmed the L-configuration (>90%)
establishing the diagnosis of L-2-HGA. The first epileptic seizure, partial
with secondary generalization, occurred at age of 8 years. Favorable seizure
control was achieved. A slow progression of neurological impairment was
noted. Therapeutic trials with oral coenzyme Q10 and with oral riboflavin
showed no biochemical and clinical effects. Recently, the diagnosis was
proven by the presence of a mutation in the L-2-HGA gene. Conclusion. To our
knowledge, this is the first report of L-2-HGA in Serbia. L-2-HGA must be
considered in the differential diagnosis based on specific findings in
cranial MRI.
Effects of Some Cover Crops on Light Extinction and Weed Coverage in Sunflower Field
Authors: Hassannejad S. , Mobli A.R.
Published: July 2014

In order to evaluate the effects of some cover crops on extinction coefficient and weed cover percentage in sunflower, a field experiment was conducted based on a randomized complete block design with nine treatments and three replicates at the Agricultural Research Station, Tabriz University of Iran, during growing season 2012-2013. Treatments were triticale, hairy vetch, rapeseed, triticale + hairy vetch, triticale + rapeseed, hairy vetch + rapeseed, application of trifluralin herbicide, and controls (weed infested and weed free without planting cover crop). Result indicated than once established, living mulches can rapidly occupy the open space between the rows of the main crop and use the light that would otherwise be available to weeds. In the all cover crops treatments, the light extinction coefficient was increased and weed cover percentage was reduced. Highest reduction in total weed species was observed in hairy vetch + rapeseed and triticale + rapeseed cover crop 61.92% and 61.43 %, respectively, compared to weed infested, so this treatment was better than trifluralin application. It concluded that cover crops could be considered as integrated strategies for weed sustainable management.
Isobolographic Analysis of the Interaction of Tramadol with Anticonvulsant Drugs in Mice
Authors: Chiţac Lidia Cristina , Chiriac S. Beşchea , Neamţu Monica , Bulea Delia , Bild Veronica
Published: July 2014

Experimental research followed by clinical studies have demonstrated the existence of several types of pain, thus the pain classification according to the mediation has widely extended. In addition, the study of the interactions with pharmacodynamic mechanism expanded very much during the last years; therefore in the new theories appear significant changes concerning synergism, addition and subadditivity in binary combinations. The investigations in this paper were aimed the demonstration of the antinociceptive of some drugs with anticonvulsant action and the analysis of their binary combinations with tramadol, using isobolar analysis. As model of nociception has been used the test of abdominal constrictive response in mouse induced by Zymosan A. the test substances were administered orally alone or in fixed proportion combinations. The data obtained were subjected to isobolar analysis. According to the statistical analysis the following have been observed: the binary combination tramadol-VA has proven to be synergistic (Zmix ⋋ Zadd, f = 0,5, p1 = 677, Tc =3.936, Tt = 3,529, c = 12.78, Ft = 4.46, p ⋋ 0.05), while the binary combination tramadol-CBZ has proven to be borderline additive (Z mix ⋋ Zadd).
Effect of a Short Time Concentric Versus Eccentric Training Program on Electromyography Activity and Peak Torque of Quadriceps
Authors: Carvalho Alberto , Caserotti Paolo , Carvalho Carlos , Abade Eduardo , Sampaio Jaime
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an 8-week concentric (CON) versus eccentric (ECC) isokinetic training program on the electromyography (EMG) signal amplitude of vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL) and rectus femoris (RF). Also, the isometric (ISO) and dynamic maximum strength of the knee extensors were assessed. Eighteen physically healthy male subjects (age 22 ± 1 years, body height 177 ± 4 cm, body mass 73 ± 7 kg) performed four weeks of unilateral CON isokinetic training for the quadriceps of the dominant leg on a REV9000 dynamometer. At the end of the fourth week, the sample was divided into two groups, with one group performing additional four weeks of unilateral ECC training and the other continuing with CON training. The training sessions consisted of three sets of ten maximal repetitions at a velocity of 60°s-1, three days per week for eight weeks. The results showed that CON and ECC groups improved the peak torque in all types of contractions. Also, both groups presented increases in the avgEMG for VL, VM and RF. The present investigation showed that CON training elicited increases of the ISO peak torque and VM avgEMG in the CON contraction. Additionally, significant gains were reported after the ECC training on the VM avgEMG in all contractions and RM avgEMG in CON contraction.
First report of black-foot disease, caused by Cylindrocarpon destructans, on ornamental marigold (Tagetes minuta) in Iran
Authors: Jamali Samad , Nasimi Zohreh
Published: July 2014

The ornamental Tagetes minuta is a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. T. minuta, a species native to southern South America, is used as a condiment, as a refreshing beverage, and for medicinal purposes. In 2011, disease symptoms of yellowing, root and foot rot, drying of leaves, and plant death were observed in an ornamental marigold (T. minuta) greenhouse in Fars province. The infected plants were collected and transferred to a laboratory. Samples were washed, cut into small pieces, surface disinfested with a 0.5% NaClO solution, and cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) acidified to pH 4.5 with 0.5% lactic acid. Based on morphological characters, the causal agent was identified as Cylindrocarpon destructans. To confirm morphological identification, DNA was extracted from isolates using a genomic DNA purification Kit. The region of internal transcribed spacers 1, 2, and 5.8S genes of rDNA were amplified using the ITS4 and ITS1 universal primer set. Fragments of 600 bp were recovered from PCR, purified, sequenced, edited, and deposited in GenBank. The isolates had a 100% identity with all the compared C. destructans sequences. The pathogenicity tests were done with a suspension of 1 × 106 conidia per ml homogenised in sterile water. The symptoms on inoculated plants were similar to those previously observed and the fungus was reisolated from the inoculated plants. This is the first documented report of C. de-structans as a cause of root and foot rot disease on T. minuta in Iran.