bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progestogen effects at vascular level: the endothelial cells
Authors: Mannella Paolo , Simoncini Tommaso , Genazzani Andrea Riccardo
Published: January 2011

Progesterone and progestogens are active molecules on the cardiovascular system. However, their action is not as well-characterized as the effects of estrogens. Data of the last clinical trials suggest the possibility of harmful cardiovascular effects of progestogens, and the debate on the role of progesterone and progestins on the vascular wall is open. From an experimental point of view, each progestogen presents typical effects on the cardiovascular system and their administration results in diverse modifications of the effects of estrogens, sometimes acting synergically, others being neutral or antagonizing effects of estrogens. In this paper, we review the most important data from in vivo and in vitro studies which have been published on the effects of progesterone and progestogens on vascular cells. Endothelium is a target tissue for sex steroids and progesterone is able to regulate endothelial cell function and morphology. Even if the perfect molecule does not exist, the understanding of the molecular basis of each progestogen in vascular tissue is therefore of paramount importance for the most appropriate use with an optimal cardiovascular profile.
Determining 241Pu in environmental samples: case studies in alpine soils
Authors: Corcho Alvarado J. A. , Chawla F. , Froidevaux P.
Published: January 2011

A procedure was developed for determining 241Pu activity in environmental samples. This beta emitter isotope of plutonium was measured by ultra low level liquid scintillation, after several separation and purification steps that involved the use of a highly selective extraction chromatographic resin (Eichrom-TEVA). Due to the lack of reference material for 241Pu, the method was nevertheless validated using four IAEA reference sediments with information values for 241Pu. Next, the method was used to determine the 241Pu activity in alpine soils of Switzerland and France. The 241Pu/239,240Pu and 238Pu/239,240Pu activity ratios confirmed that Pu contamination in the tested alpine soils originated mainly from global fallout from nuclear weapon tests conducted in the fifties and sixties. Estimation of the date of the contamination, using the 241Pu/241Am age-dating method, further confirmed this origin. However, the 241Pu/241Am dating method was limited to samples where Pu-Am fractionation was insignificant. If any, the contribution of the Chernobyl accident is negligible.
Chromatographic generator systems for the actinides and natural decay series elements
Authors: McAlister Daniel R. , Horwitz E. Philip
Published: January 2011

This work describes chromatographic radionuclide generator systems for the production of actinides and natural decay series elements. The generator systems begin with alpha emitting parent radioisotopes with half-lives (T
1/2) of greater than one year and produce alpha or beta emitting radioisotopes with half-lives of hours to days. Chromatographic systems were chosen to minimize radiolytic damage to chromatographic supports, preserve the parent activity for repeated use, provide high purity daughter radionuclide tracers, and to minimize or eliminate the need for evaporation of solutions of the parent or daughter nuclides. Useful secondary separations involving the daughters of the initial parent radionuclide are also described. Separation systems for 210Bi, 210Po, 211Pb, 212Pb, 223Ra, 224Ra, 225Ra, 225Ac, 227Th, 228Th, 231Th, 234Th, and 239Np are outlined in detail.
Metal ion selectivities of the highly preorganized tetradentate ligand 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxamide with lanthanide(III) ions and some actinide ions
Authors: Merrill Danielle , Hancock Robert D.
Published: January 2011

Metal ion complexing properties of the ligand PDAM (1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-dicarboxamide) are reported in relation to its possible use as a functional group for solvent extractants in the separation of Am(III) from Ln(III) (lanthanide) ions. PDAM is only slightly water soluble, but variation of the intense π–π* transitions in the UV spectrum of 2×10−5 M PDAM solutions as a function of pH or metal ion concentration allowed for the determination of the protonation constant (pK) and logK
1 values with metal ions. The pK of PDAM is 0.6±0.1 in 1.0 M NaClO4, the lowest for any 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) derivative (in contrast, pK phen=5.1), which is attributed to the electron-withdrawing properties of the amide substituents of PDAM. The weak proton basicity of PDAM may be an important factor in its use as the functional group of a solvent extractant from acidic solutions. The formation constants are determined by UV-Visible spectroscopy for the Ln(III) ions from La(III) to Lu(III) (excluding Pm(III)), as well as for Y(III), Sc(III), Th(IV), and the UO2
2+ cation in 0.1 M NaClO4 at 25 °C. The logK
1 values for the Ln(III) ions show only small changes from La(III) to Lu(III) (both have logK
1 = 3.80). The amide O-donors (oxygen donors) of the amide groups of PDAM appear to cause considerable stabilization of the complexes of PDAM as compared to those of phen, consistent with the idea that the neutral O-donor is a strong Lewis base towards large metal ions such as the Ln(III) ions. A reviewer has pointed out that the amide groups would also stabilize the complexes of PDAM by virtue of the chelate effect, in that PDAM is tetradentate, while phen is only bidentate. The small change in complex stability for PDAM complexes in passing from La(III) to Lu(III) is rationalized in terms of the idea that neutral O-donors stabilize the complexes of the large La(III) ion more than the smaller Lu(III) ion, offsetting the greater affinity of Lu(III) than La(III) for N-donor ligands. The complexes of Th(IV), Sc(III), and the UO2
2+ cation with PDAM have logK
1 values slightly higher than those of the Ln(III) cations, while Y(III) forms a slightly less stable complex. The best-fit size of metal ion for coordination with PDAM is analyzed using molecular mechanics calculations. A fluorescence study shows that the free ligand PDAM fluoresces very strongly, but that the Ln(III) cations quench the fluorescence of PDAM rather than produce a chelation enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) effect as Ln(III) ions do with other phen-based tetradentate ligands. Possible reasons for the lack of a CHEF effect with PDAM are discussed.
Evolution of the germ line–soma relationship in vertebrate embryos
Authors: Johnson Andrew D , Richardson Emma , Bachvarova Rosemary F , Crother Brian I
Published: January 2011

The germ line and soma together maintain genetic lineages from generation to generation: the germ line passes genetic information between generations; the soma is the vehicle for germ line transmission, and is shaped by natural selection. The germ line and somatic lineages arise simultaneously in early embryos, but how their development is related depends on how primordial germ cells (PGC) are specified. PGCs are specified by one of two means. Epigenesis describes the induction of PGCs from pluripotent cells by signals from surrounding somatic tissues. In contrast, PGCs in many species are specified cell-autonomously by maternally derived molecules, known as germ plasm, and this is called preformation. Germ plasm inhibits signaling to PGCs; thus, they are specified cell-autonomously. Germ plasm evolved independently in many animal lineages, suggesting convergent evolution, and therefore it would be expected to convey a selective advantage. But, what this is remains unknown. We propose that the selective advantage that drives the emergence of germ plasm in vertebrates is the disengagement of germ line specification from somatic influences. This liberates the evolution of gene regulatory networks (GRNs) that govern somatic development, and thereby enhances species evolvability, a well-recognized selective advantage. We cite recent evidence showing that frog embryos, which contain germ plasm, have modified GRNs that are not conserved in axolotls, which represent more basal amphibians and employ epigenesis. We also present the correlation of preformation with enhanced species radiations, and we discuss the mutually exclusive trajectories influenced by germ plasm or pluripotency, which shaped chordate evolution.
Australian Experience in Water and Energy Footprints
Authors: Apostolidis Nicholas
Published: January 2011

Introducing water and energy footprint considerations into decision making provides water managers an opportunity to drive better water and energy efficiency outcomes. In Australia severe water shortages, combined with community concerns with climate change, have driven water managers to look closer at the nexus between water and energy use. The two are closely related and will play an important role in the shape of the water industry in future in Australia and around the world.

The following paper provides a snapshot of the energy and water footprints associated with different elements of the water cycle in Australia. The objective is to provide a more holistic view of the nexus between energy and water. It is important to recognize however that focusing on energy and water efficiency alone is not enough. Environmental, economic and social issues must also be considered, otherwise it will lead to sub optimal outcomes and will fail to gain appropriate community support.
Managing the Risk of Emerging Algae Toxins in Drinking Water: Development of a Targeted Analytical Approach
Authors: Janex-Habibi M.-L. , Baudin I. , Bruchet A. , Esperanza M. , Courtois S. , Decottignies V. , Constans L. , Chrupalla S. , Bréhé M. , Lengronne M. , Brient L.
Published: January 2011

The objective of the study was to identify appropriate analytical scenarios to assess the release of emerging toxins in water resources and manage the risk for drinking water. A comprehensive toolbox was developed for the monitoring of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in ten water resources used for drinking water production and known for regular algae blooms. Six toxins - microcystins, cylindrospermopsin, anatoxins, nodularin, saxitoxin and BMAA - were targeted. High performance HPLC-MS/MS methods were implemented in parallel with rapid kits and a real-time PCR method was developed to identify specifically the microcystin producing species. Those analytical methods were found in good agreement and very sensitive and selective.

Low levels of eutrophication were obtained during those campaigns leading to limited occurrence of toxins. Results obtained on one site are detailed in this paper.

Finally, recommendations could be drawn to manage the risk related to various emerging algae toxins, based on the use of a phycocyanin probe on-site as early-warning system. When a threshold value is reached, treatment and monitoring strategies are implemented in parallel.
Influence of Materials, Water Qualities and Disinfection Methods on the Drinking Water Biofilm Community
Authors: Roeder R. S. , Heeg K. , Tarne P. , Benölken J. K. , Schaule G. , Bendinger B. , Flemming H.-C. , Szewzyk U.
Published: January 2011

The composition of biofilm populations in drinking water will mainly depend on the nutrient availability and the temperature. The nutrients may originate either from the raw water or from the installation materials. To determine the effect of drinking water pipe materials on the composition of biofilm populations, biofilms grown on different materials (EPDM materials, PEXb, PEXc and copper) were analyzed by cloning (16S rDNA) and the community fingerprinting method denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Additionally the long-term effect of mechanical cleaning and disinfection with chlorine dioxide (0.2 mg/l, 24h) on the biofilm populations was tested. The biofilm populations had high diversities on growth supporting materials like EPDM and comparatively low diversity on PEX. The biofilms were dominated by Proteobacteria and the composition of the subdivisions was influenced by the applied material. Flavobacteria and members of the family Sphingomonadaceae, which are known to degrade several organic compounds, were found on EPDM materials and might be suitable as indicators for hygienical relevant materials. Comparison of biofilms previously treated with disinfectants with untreated ones by DGGE revealed a considerable population shift depending on the pipe material.
Smart Climate Change Adaptation in Rotterdam, Delta City of the Future
Authors: Dircke P. , Molenaar A.
Published: January 2011

In 2025 the majority of the world population will live in flood prone delta cities. Delta City Rotterdam, with one of the biggest ports in the world, is dealing with the consequences of climate change in a very pro-active and smart way, turning these challenges into opportunities. Rotterdam wants to become one of the global leaders in water management and climate change adaptation, by using new and smart technologies and protecting its citizens against the future impacts of sea level rise and intensified rainfall by making Rotterdam completely “Climate Proof” by 2025. And also by developing its old city ports area by adding attractive waterfronts and knowledge centers like the RDM Campus (Research, Design and manufacturing), where education of future generations is combined with innovative and sustainable development of businesses and sciences, and with experiencing best practices. One of the major innovative and smart solutions for climate change adaptation discussed in this paper is called “Smart Flood Control Rotterdam”, the development of a serious flood management game for Rotterdam. All this knowledge and experiences are shared with other Delta Cities of the world, in the C40 “Connecting Delta Cities” network.
Piped Drinking Water Sampling Plan for Small Water Systems in Singapore - A Regulator's Perspective
Authors: Joshi Pranav S. , Vaidyanathan Ramnath , Hsiang Lam Chun , Appoo S Satish
Published: January 2011

Small piped drinking water systems pose a unique challenge to the regulatory authorities since the owners/operators of such systems often lack technical expertise, resources and organizational controls to effectively operate their treatment systems, unlike the large utilities that have the economy of scale to address these issues in an optimal manner. With the discovery of new non-conventional sources of water and the continuous development of low-cost water treatment processes, the number of small suppliers is likely to grow worldwide in the future, especially in those remote areas/islands where drinking water is not easily available. In order to ensure that these suppliers are able to detect any health risk to the consumers in a timely manner, it is imperative to develop a water sampling plan that is comprehensive enough, yet flexible and practical to implement. This paper highlights Singapore's regulatory experience in prescribing, developing and monitoring the implementation of piped water sampling plans by small water suppliers.
Decentralized Wastewater Treatment as a Solution for Challenging Environments
Authors: Djonoputro Enrico Rahadi , Blackett Isabel , Weitz Almud
Published: January 2011

Across East Asia many of the poorest communities live on marginal land or over water. Owing to adverse topological, geographic and climatic conditions, neither conventional nor most of the well known ‘alternative’ low cost sanitation options are feasible at affordable prices for poor communities or governments.

A recent study in Indonesia has started to develop a typology of challenging environments for sanitation as a means to: assess the scale of the challenges; understand the specific issues involved in improving sanitation; identify, develop, improve or adapt sanitation technologies to cope with different environments; and to disseminate the results in the study countries, regionallyand beyond.

Four main challenging environment types were identified: coastal & estuaries: rivers and riverbanks, swamps and high water tables, and flood prone areas. Generally, challenging areas in addition to the limitation on conventional and low cost sanitation technologies were found to have the following characteristics:Open defecation into water is a common practiceCommunities use polluted surface and groundwater sources for domestic activities: bathing, washing, children playing, defecating (directly or indirectly), and even sometimes for cookingHouse patterns are unplanned and the areas may be densely populated by poor householdsOccupation is illegal or semi-legalThere is a lack of adequate access for de-sludging vehicles, due to narrow paths made of wooden planks, andHousehold access to clean water is a limited an therefore a high priority than sanitation

The review of both technical and non-technical aspects of sanitation in these challenging environments confirmed the difficulties in implementing affordable sanitation options. Decentralized wastewater treatment systems from in-house or communal toilet facilities, are however options which have considerable potential in these areas, especially for overhanging houses, houses built on stilts and in-land houses.
Evaluation of Biogas Sanitation Systems in Nepalese Prisons
Authors: Lohri C. , Vögeli Y. , Oppliger A. , Mardini R. , Giusti A. , Zurbrügg C.
Published: January 2011

In 2007, with the help of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), biogas sanitation systems were installed in three Nepalese District Jails to improve the poor sanitary conditions, reduce the health risks of the detainees, and provide a smoke-free source of cooking fuel. After one year of operation the functionality of these new systems was assessed and their impact and acceptance evaluated. The study was conducted between April and June 2009. Based on findings of a first assessment, repairs and user trainings were conducted. Further monitoring results were obtained during a third visit, when the facilities were considered to be running under optimal conditions. All five fixed-dome digesters (sizes of 10m3, 20m3 and 35m3) revealed gastight domes and showed high process stability with no accumulation of inhibitory substances. Average gas production from human waste exclusively are 28NL/person/day, and with addition of kitchen waste feedstock 62NL/person/day. Methane fraction varied between 57 and 78 Vol-%, depending on the feedstock. Hydraulic retention time was between 13 and 32 days which was far below the planned 70 days. This was due to the use of 3L of water per flush rather than the 1L planned. Pathogen analyses of effluent in the storage pits revealed E. Coli concentration to be acceptable for restricted irrigation (<10∩5 CFU/100ml). The vast majority (98%) of detainees favors the digesters and reports a general improvement of living conditions. Given the use of biogas for cooking, 59% of the interviewed inmates appreciated less smoke in the kitchen (and thus less respiratory health problems) and 49% mentioned the improved sanitary and hygienic conditions. Up to 41% of the money previously spent for conventional cooking fuel could be saved thanks to the use of biogas. Suggested improvements include a better design and slope of the inlet pipes, a buffer wall to increase the retention time, and an improved maintenance strategy.
Emergency Sanitation
Authors: Haucke Joerg , Kreutzer Gert
Published: January 2011

The increasing number of natural disasters and other emergency situations must lead to a reevaluation with regards to the supply of essentials for affected people, especially in the field of water and sanitation. Emergency sanitation facilities have to be wisely planned and implemented in time in order to reduce the risks of outbreaks of communicable diseases in shelters or temporary settlements.

The presented technical solutions for post-disaster sewage are based on a compact-sized combination of mechanical sedimentation and anaerobic biological wastewater treatment processes. Using different types of prefabricated components, these systems are designed to meet the unique logistical requirements of disaster scenarios.

An important “lesson learnt” from past experiences is the need to reduce the wastewater volume from shelters, as transport and space for appropriate treatment are always a limiting factor.

The applied wastewater treatment following DEWATS-principles will allow a reduction of BOD and COD of over 90%. In order to accelerate the startup, anaerobic sludge from existing plants will be injected into the reactors.

Investment costs are below 5 $ per connected person and the maximum response time after identification of the location in demand until the start of operation is 5 days.
History and Current Situation of Night Soil Treatment Systems and Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems in Japan
Authors: Yang X.M. , Morita A. , Nakano I. , Kushida Y. , Ogawa H.
Published: January 2011

In Japan, night soil, or black water, was formerly used as fertilizer for agriculture. However, during the rapid economic growth that took place after 1960, chemical fertilizers began to be adopted for agriculture and night soil was almost abandoned. How to treat the excess of night soil then became a big challenge to tackle. From that time a variety of night soil treatment technologies have been developed and the Japanese government has actively promoted the construction of night soil treatment facilities all over the country. As measures for domestic wastewater treatment, sewerage systems were spread in high-density urban areas, while a decentralized system called johkasou was diffused in rural areas with low population density. Johkasou is a unique system that was devised in Japan and mainly treats domestic wastewater on-site. Night soil treatment systems and decentralized wastewater treatment systems used in Japan are introduced in this paper, in the hope that the experience acquired in Japan will contribute to improve the sanitation conditions in other countries.
A Combination of an Anaerobic Baffled Reactor with Membrane Filtration for Decentralised Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Pillay S. , Pollet S. , Foxon K.M. , Buckley C.A.
Published: January 2011

This paper presents the performance of a laboratory-scale anaerobic baffled reactor (ABR) with a combined membrane filtration polishing step. The plant treated a synthetic blackwater comprised of a faecal and urine slurry obtained from ventilated improved pit latrine (VIP) toilets. Feed to the system was kept constant at 2 000 mg COD/L with COD, TS and VS removal efficiencies of 81, 24 and 20% obtained through the ABR. Two effluent polishing systems were investigated: a hollow-fibre system that housed Polymem modules and a flat-sheet system that housed Kubota and locally-produced fabric modules. Membranes were operated in the dead-end mode under ultra-low pressures using a hydrostatic pressure head (less than a metre). Fouling behaviour differed with the type of filtration process despite the same feed characteristics. Effluent filtration with the Polymem module showed that the flux did not reach a stabilisation period with severe fouling occurring after 8 d. Membrane fouling was largely reversible with the fouling layer easily removed by a simple tap water wash. In contrast, effluent filtration with Kubota and fabric membranes resulted in a period of low stabilised flux (˜0.5 L/m2.h) at ultra-low pressures with flux independent on the TMP used. Kubota modules exhibited a similar performance to fabric ones but were able to produce slighter higher fluxes after prolonged filtration. Membrane fouling in both flat-sheet module types was irreversible with a gel-like layer forming during filtration. The difference in hollow-fibre and flat-sheet modules may be due to a number of factors, such as pore size and the manufacturing process used to prepare membranes. Through deductive investigations, it was concluded that the fouling constituents in the effluent may be colloidal and/or soluble in nature.
Integrated Assessment of the Feasibility of Community Based Sanitation Options: A Case Study from East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Starkl M. , Bisschops I. , Norström A. , Purnomo A. , Rumiati A.
Published: January 2011

In Indonesia 66 million people practice open defecation, which is the second highest number of people in one single country following India. Indonesia lacks sanitation services, in particular in rural areas. Data from the national statistics bureau show that almost 33% of the population in rural areas have no sanitation facilities. This study looked at alternative sanitation options in a community in East Java. Its aim was to evaluate the feasibility of different sanitation options, to conduct an integrated assessment of those options, and to identify the community perceptions of those options. The investigated technologies encompassed on the one side locally widely spread and accepted technologies (such as septic tanks), and on the other, new but promising concepts which have not yet been well established in Indonesia (such as biogas plants or ecosan systems). The study has shown that despite the high costs (NPV), the high hygienic risk potential and low environmental performance, septic tanks were most preferred by the community. Generally, those options which performed best in the assessment (community and decentralized sanitation systems) were least preferred by the community.
Some Challenges for DEWATS Approaches in South Africa
Authors: Eales Kathy
Published: January 2011

SA has set bold targets to ensure universal access to water and sanitation by 2014. One consequence of South Africa's comparative wealth is that government has substantial fiscal resources to fund rapid infrastructure development and service upgrading and subsidise a portion of the recurrent costs of water and sanitation services for low income households. More than 70% of the population now has at least a VIP toilet, and about 56% have sewered flush toilets.

Government's commitment to improving sanitation services does not yet align with the municipal capacity to run sewered sanitation with centralised wastewater treatment as the default in all urban settlements. Decaying networks, sewer spills and rising levels of wastewater treatment failure are polluting South Africa's water systems and, in time, could compromise national water security in a context of growing scarcity.

South Africa urgently needs to find lower cost, less skills-intensive ways of treating wastewater that have a reduced risk of failure and which meet people's need for robust, sustainable services. DEWATS approaches have significant merit.

Implementation of DEWATS approaches in South Africa must take account of three main challenges:▪ The willingness of South African municipalities to consider alternatives to conventional sewering and wastewater treatment▪ The nutrient load of the final treated effluent, given the importance of safe-guarding river water quality in a context of growing water scarcity▪ Partnering and co-management dynamics in a context of state-centric supply-side service provision

The paper reviews each in the context of a leading innovator in sanitation improvement in South Africa, eThekwini Metro Municipality. In 2010, the Metro will test the technical limits of DEWATS treatment efficacy at a purpose-built research site. The results will inform the utility's decision about whether to proceed with DEWATS from a technical perspective, and if so, how.
Why DEWATS is Still not Popular in Vietnam?
Authors: Nguyen Viet-Anh
Published: January 2011

While large centralized sanitation projects are not affordable for most cases in urban and rural areas, the only way to increase sanitation coverage, especially for the poor, is to implement low-cost alternatives with decentralized sanitation management schemes where local community, administrative authorities and private sectors are involved in the decision making as well as in the exploitation process. Despite of that, there are some reasons discussed why decentralized wastewater management concept and its application is still not widely disseminated throughout Vietnam. Among institutional and managerial aspects there are weaknesses of environmental pollution control capacity at different, especially local levels, limitations of existing Vietnamese environmental standard system, and lacking of incentive measures to encourage consultants to go for the decentralized wastewater concept, as well as to force polluters to improve their situation. In term of finance, discussed pints are low wastewater fee, and limited participation of private sector in the business. In technical aspects, there are limited information of appropriate and proven technical options for different contexts, lessons on their performance and system setting up. Besides, difficulties in the household connection and in collection network are among factors. The paper also provides some examples of decentralized alternatives implemented in different sanitation projects at different scales in Vietnam.
Increased Expression and Activity of 12-Lipoxygenase in Oxygen-Induced Ischemic Retinopathy and Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Al-Shabrawey Mohamed , Mussell Rene , Kahook Khalid , Tawfik Amany , Eladl Mohamed , Sarthy Vijay , Nussbaum Julian , El-Marakby Ahmed , Park Sun Young , Gurel Zafer , Sheibani Nader , Maddipati Krishna Rao
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Arachidonic acid is metabolized by 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) to 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12-HETE) and has an important role in the regulation of angiogenesis and endothelial cell proliferation and migration. The goal of this study was to investigate whether 12-LOX plays a role in retinal neovascularization (NV).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Experiments were performed using retinas from a murine model of oxygen-induced ischemic retinopathy (OIR) that was treated with and without the LOX pathway inhibitor, baicalein, or lacking 12-LOX. We also analyzed vitreous samples from patients with and without proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Western blotting and RT-PCR were used to assess the expression of 12-LOX, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and pigment epithelium–derived factor (PEDF). Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry was used to assess the amounts of HETEs in the murine retina and human vitreous samples. The effects of 12-HETE on VEGF and PEDF expression were evaluated in Müller cells (rMCs), primary mouse retinal pigment epithelial cells, and astrocytes.

RESULTS

Retinal NV during OIR was associated with increased 12-LOX expression and 12-, 15-, and 5-HETE production. The amounts of HETEs also were significantly higher in the vitreous of diabetic patients with PDR. Retinal NV was markedly abrogated in mice treated with baicalein or mice lacking 12-LOX. This was associated with decreased VEGF expression and restoration of PEDF levels. PEDF expression was reduced in 12-HETE–treated rMCs, astrocytes, and the retinal pigment epithelium. Only rMCs and astrocytes showed increased VEGF expression by 12-HETE.

CONCLUSIONS

12-LOX and its product HETE are important regulators of retinal NV through modulation of VEGF and PEDF expression and could provide a new therapeutic target to prevent and treat ischemic retinopathy.
Normal Postprandial Nonesterified Fatty Acid Uptake in Muscles Despite Increased Circulating Fatty Acids in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Labbé Sébastien M. , Croteau Etienne , Grenier-Larouche Thomas , Frisch Frédérique , Ouellet René , Langlois Réjean , Guérin Brigitte , Turcotte Eric E. , Carpentier André C.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Postprandial plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) appearance is increased in type 2 diabetes. Our objective was to determine whether skeletal muscle uptake of plasma NEFA is abnormal during the postprandial state in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Thigh muscle blood flow and oxidative metabolism indexes and NEFA uptake were determined using positron emission tomography coupled with computed tomography (PET/CT) with [11C]acetate and 14(R,S)-[18F]fluoro-6-thia-heptadecanoic acid (18FTHA) in seven healthy control subjects (CON) and seven subjects with type 2 diabetes during continuous oral intake of a liquid meal to achieve steady postprandial NEFA levels with insulin infusion to maintain similar plasma glucose levels in both groups.

RESULTS

In the postprandial state, plasma NEFA level was higher in type 2 diabetic subjects versus CON (P < 0.01), whereas plasma glucose was at the same level in both groups. Muscle NEFA fractional extraction and blood flow index levels were 56% (P < 0.05) and 24% (P = 0.27) lower in type 2 diabetes, respectively. However, muscle NEFA uptake was similar to that of CON (quadriceps femoris [QF] 1.47 ± 0.23 vs. 1.37 ± 0.24 nmol ⋅ g−1 ⋅ min−1, P = 0.77; biceps femoris [BF] 1.54 ± 0.26 vs. 1.46 ± 0.28 nmol ⋅ g−1 ⋅ min−1, P = 0.85). Muscle oxidative metabolism was similar in both groups. Muscle NEFA fractional extraction and blood flow index were strongly and positively correlated (r = 0.79, P < 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Postprandial muscle NEFA uptake is normal despite elevated systemic NEFA levels and acute normalization of plasma glucose in type 2 diabetes. Lower postprandial muscle blood flow with resulting reduction in muscle NEFA fractional extraction may explain this phenomenon.
Effects of Metformin on Body Weight and Body Composition in Obese Insulin-Resistant Children
Authors: Yanovski Jack A. , Krakoff Jonathan , Salaita Christine G. , McDuffie Jennifer R. , Kozlosky Merel , Sebring Nancy G. , Reynolds James C. , Brady Sheila M. , Calis Karim A.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Metformin can decrease adiposity and ameliorate obesity-related comorbid conditions, including abnormalities in glucose homeostasis in adolescents, but there are few data evaluating the efficacy of metformin among younger children. Our objective was to determine whether metformin treatment causes weight loss and improves obesity-related comorbidities in obese children, who are insulin-resistant.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial consisting of 100 severely obese (mean BMI 34.6 ± 6.6 kg/m2) insulin-resistant children aged 6–12 years, randomized to 1,000 mg metformin (n = 53) or placebo (n = 47) twice daily for 6 months, followed by open-label metformin treatment for 6 months. All children and their parents participated in a monthly dietitian-administered weight-reduction program.

RESULTS

Eighty-five percent completed the 6-month randomized phase. Children prescribed metformin had significantly greater decreases in BMI (difference −1.09 kg/m2, CI −1.87 to −0.31, P = 0.006), body weight (difference −3.38 kg, CI −5.2 to −1.57, P < 0.001), BMI Z score (difference between metformin and placebo groups −0.07, CI −0.12 to −0.01, P = 0.02), and fat mass (difference −1.40 kg, CI −2.74 to −0.06, P = 0.04). Fasting plasma glucose (P = 0.007) and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) insulin resistance index (P = 0.006) also improved more in metformin-treated children than in placebo-treated children. Gastrointestinal symptoms were significantly more prevalent in metformin-treated children, which limited maximal tolerated dosage in 17%. During the 6-month open-label phase, children treated previously with placebo decreased their BMI Z score; those treated continuously with metformin did not significantly change BMI Z score further.

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin had modest but favorable effects on body weight, body composition, and glucose homeostasis in obese insulin-resistant children participating in a low-intensity weight-reduction program.
Induction chemotherapy followed by radiation versus concurrent chemoradiation in laryngeal cancer
Authors: Mollah Md Nazir Uddin , Alimuzzaman Md , Hossain Syed Akram , Baki Md Abdul , Nasiruzzaman AHM , Mohammad AKM Ghulam
Published: January 2011

Objective: This study was done to evaluate the effectiveness of concurrent chemo-radiotherapy than induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy in the loco-regional control of laryngeal cancers. Methods: This experimental study was done at Radiotherapy Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from June 2004 to July 2005. Fifty three patients were selected purposively with biopsy proven squamous cell carcinoma of laryngeal region. Among the 53 patients 27 patients were treated concurrent chemo-radiation therapy and 26 patients were treated with induction chemotherapy followed by radiation. All patients were evaluated 6 weeks after completion of treatment. Results: After giving concurrent chemo-radiation complete response occurred in 74% and partial response occurred in 26% patients but after giving induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy, complete response occurred in 23% and partial response occurred in 77% patients. Conclusion: Concurrent chemo-radiation is more effective than induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy. Key words: Laryngeal cancer; radiotherapy; chemotherapy. DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v16i2.6833Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2010; 16(2): 86-90
Presenting features of supraglottic carcinoma of larynx
Authors: Hossain Md Anwar , Ahmed SM Tareq Uddin , Alam Md Monjurul , Tarafder Kamrul Hassan , Humayun Abu Hena Mohammad Parvez
Published: January 2011

Objectives: To find out the presentation of supraglottic carcinoma of larynx.Methods: Fifty cases of supraglottic carcinoma were selected from the in-patient department of Otolaryngology and Head-Neck surgery of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, during March, 2009 to August, 2009.Results: Among 50 cases in this study male: female ratio 11.5:1 and mean age was 55 years with range 35 years to 80 years. Majority of cases were from the lower socioeconomic group (66%). Regarding habit 94% were smoker, 60% were habituated with chewing betel leaf and betel nuts with or without other ingredient. Only 3 cases (6%) were alcoholic. Most of the cases presented with more than one symptoms and commonest symptoms was change of voice (82%) which was followed by dysphagia (76%), respiratory distress (54%) and neck swelling (42%). 32 (64%) cases had enlarged cervical lymph nodes out of which 27 (84.37%) were homolateral, 4 (12.50%) were bilateral and only 1 (3.12%) was contra-lateral. Vocal cord movement was normal in 23 (46%) cases, impaired in 12 (24%) and fixed in 15 (30%) cases. Most of the cases presented with exophytic lesion 34 (68%) where ulcerative lesion was 16 (32%). (52%) presented with involvement of arytenoid with aryepiglottic folds/vestibule of larynx, 12 cases (24%) had lesion at epiglottis with vestibule/aryepiglottic folds, 8 cases (16%) had lesion at vestibule with false cord, 4 cases (8%) had lesion involving the epiglottis only. Maximum number of patients had T3 lesion (44%) and T2 lesion was 36%. Most of the cases presented at an advanced stage, stage- IV was 42% and stage- III was 36%. Stage- I and stage- II were 6% and 16% respectively. Conclusion: Most common presenting symptoms of supraglottic carcinoma were change of voice, dysphagia and respiratory distress and most of the cases prented in an advanced stage (Stage III and Stage IV). Key words: Supraglottic; personal habit; neck node DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v16i2.6845Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2010; 16(2): 106-112
Comparative study of tubotympanic and atticoantral variety of Chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: Islam Md Rafiqul , Taous Ahmmad , Hossain Md Monwar , Ekramuddaula AFM , Islam Mohammed Shafiqul
Published: January 2011

Objectives: To find out the difference between tubotympanic and atticoantral type of chronic suppurative otitis media in their presentation, complications and hearing impairment they produce. Methods: This cross sectional study done in the department of Otolaryngology of Mymensingh Medical College Hospital and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, during the period of January 2005 to February 2006. For this study 100 Patients who were diagnosed as a case of chronic suppurative otitis media by detailed history, clinical examination and related investigations were collected. Results: In this study majority of the patients were within 10-20 years of age & male female ratio 2.1:1. This condition was common in rural population with low socio economic status having poor nutrition and those who take bath in river or pond water in rural area. Common presentation of tubotympanic type of CSOM was aural discharge and deafness but presentation of atticdntral type of CSOM was aural discharge and deafness with other symptoms like earache, fever, headache tinnitus and vertigo, etc. Hearing loss was found more in atticoantral type of disease. Complication of CSOM was found only in atticoantral type of disease. Conclusion: Complications are more frequent and hearing impairment is morein severity in case of atticoantral type of chronic suppurative otitis media Key word: CSOM; Tubotympanic; Atticoantral.DOI: 10.3329/bjo.v16i2.6846Bangladesh J Otorhinolaryngol 2010; 16(2): 113-119
Symmetry-Adapted Rotator Functions for Molecules in Cylindrical Confinement
Authors: Verberck Bart
Published: January 2011

We present a general description of the formalism of symmetry-adapted rotator functions (SARFs) for molecules in cylindrical confinement. Molecules are considered as clusters of interaction centers (ICs), can have any symmetry, and can display different types of ICs. Cylindrical confinement can be realized by encapsulation in a carbon nanotube (CNT). The potential energy of a molecule surrounded by a CNT can be calculated by evaluating a limited number of terms of an expansion into SARFs, which offers a significant reduction of the computation time. Optimal molecular orientations can be deduced from the resulting potential energy landscape. Examples, including the case of a molecule with cubic symmetry inside a CNT, are discussed.
Low-Dimensional Palladium Nanostructures for Fast and Reliable Hydrogen Gas Detection
Authors: Noh Jin-Seo , Lee Jun Min , Lee Wooyoung
Published: January 2011

Palladium (Pd) has received attention as an ideal hydrogen sensor material due to its properties such as high sensitivity and selectivity to hydrogen gas, fast response, and operability at room temperature. Interestingly, various Pd nanostructures that have been realized by recent developments in nanotechnologies are known to show better performance than bulk Pd. This review highlights the characteristic properties, issues, and their possible solutions of hydrogen sensors based on the low-dimensional Pd nanostructures with more emphasis on Pd thin films and Pd nanowires. The finite size effects, relative strengths and weaknesses of the respective Pd nanostructures are discussed in terms of performance, manufacturability, and practical applicability.
A Simple Method Based on the Application of a CCD Camera as a Sensor to Detect Low Concentrations of Barium Sulfate in Suspension
Authors: Caciano de Sena Rodrigo , Soares Matheus , Pereira Maria Luiza Oliveira , Cruz Domingues da Silva Rogério , Ferreira do Rosário Francisca , Cajaiba da Silva Joao Francisco
Published: January 2011

The development of a simple, rapid and low cost method based on video image analysis and aimed at the detection of low concentrations of precipitated barium sulfate is described. The proposed system is basically composed of a webcam with a CCD sensor and a conventional dichroic lamp. For this purpose, software for processing and analyzing the digital images based on the RGB (Red, Green and Blue) color system was developed. The proposed method had shown very good repeatability and linearity and also presented higher sensitivity than the standard turbidimetric method. The developed method is presented as a simple alternative for future applications in the study of precipitations of inorganic salts and also for detecting the crystallization of organic compounds.
La crise du roman en Espagne, 1915-1936. Le cas d'un romancier : Alberto Insúa
Authors: Barrere Bernard
Published: January 2011

Entre 1915 et 1936, le roman espagnol subit une crise d'autant plus inattendue qu'à la fin du XIXe siècle avait surgi une pléiade de grands romanciers et qu'à compter de 1915 l'industrie du livre et les systèmes d'édition et de distribution atteignent un haut degré d'efficacité, dépassant même les possibilités d'un marché péninsulaire trop restreint.

La réalité de la crise s'inscrit dans les irrécusables statistiques bibliométri- ques comme dans la mémoire collective : le roman souffre d'une concurrence avec les quotidiens qui publient presque exclusivement les feuilletons étrangers, avec les romanciers des pays voisins, avec les frères ennemis, les romanciers latino-américains, puis enfin avec les transcriptions à l'écran, sur les ondes, des grands textes romanesques. Toutefois il semble moins s'agir d'une décadence que d'une incapacítela donner aux porte-voix de l'imaginaire et de la liberté créatrice les moyens de vivre.
Lengua y habla en las novelas de Miguel Delibes
Authors: Alvar Manuel
Published: January 2011

El novelista no pretende destruir el lenguaje sino que lo engrandece. Lejos de ser cárcel, la lengua es libertad : la de usarla personalmente, como cualquier instrumento.

Delibes elige escribir como se habla, y sus personajes hablan como saben : así lo demuestran ejemplos sacados de varias novelas. El novelista hace neta distinción entre el lenguaje rural y el popular, de carácter urbano barrioba- jero, entre los que sitúa el coloquial de las ciudades.

El mundo rural de intereses limitados, tiene un lenguaje en extremo matizado y preciso, mientras que en la ciudad, donde se funden multitud de intereses y metasistemas, la semántica se hace más deslizante (El Príncipe destronado). Dentro del habla urbana, los diferentes grados de cultura definen lo que se puede llamar lingüística social o dialectología vertical (El disputado voto del señor Cayo). Los libros compuestos en torno a la caza son un filón inagotable para el diccionario : Delibes se convierte en etnólogo, folklorista, dialectólogo y etimologista. Las preocupaciones lingüísticas de Delibes le llevan al mundo de la teoría (Parábola del náufrago) : excepto en lenguajes técnicos de alta especialización, la palabra no es nunca entidad unívoca. El libro plantea los problemas de las lenguas artificiales, del « babelismo » o de los lenguajes de grupos (el contracto) y desemboca en una desilusión total.
Francisco Ayala, le cuit, le cru
Authors: Joly Monique
Published: January 2011

Pour un réexamen du processus créateur qui débouche sur la dernière version du Jardin des délices, à la lumière de déclarations faites par l'auteur lors de la parution conjointe du recueil antérieur et de celui qui est intitulé El tiempo y yo (1978).
Dos estilos de comparación : Juan Benet, Luis Goytisolo
Authors: Sobejano G.
Published: January 2011

A la différence du roman néo-réaliste et social de l'après-guerre, orienté vers la réalité concrète et particulière plutôt que vers les valeurs symboliques, le nouveau roman espagnol se rapporte au symbolisme, dont la base est l'analogie. Celle-ci opère au niveau de la conception et de la composition du roman aussi bien qu'au niveau de la phrase. De nouveaux modes de métaphore et de comparaison se manifestent. Dans le roman Volverás a Región (1967), de Juan Benêt, la comparaison montre ces qualités : elle est inventive, paritaire, épiphorique, intensive, synthétique, synesthésique, pas trop développée, posée comme par insertion ou parenthèse, et chez elle le plus important est la relation comparative elle-même. Dans Recuento (1973), de Luis Goytisolo, les qualités sont tout autres : la comparaison sortie de l'expérience immédiate, fonctionne au service de la corrélation des expériences plutôt qu'elle n'exprime une parité, elle est diaphorique, « exemplifica- tive », très développée, et procède comme par émanation. Par-delà ces différences, les deux romanciers font un usage très riche et nouveau des comparaisons, trouvant dans l'analogie un principe apte pour donner un ordre au chaos, d'une manière plus poétique chez Juan Benêt et plus éthique et presque didactique chez Luis Goytisolo.