bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Taenia saginata
Metacestode Antigenic Fractions without Affinity to Concanavalin A Are an Important Source of Specific Antigens for the Diagnosis of Human Neurocysticercosis
Authors: Oliveira Heliana B. , Machado Gleyce A. , Mineo José R. , Costa-Cruz Julia M.
Published: February 2010

Taenia saginata
metacestode antigens have been constituted a useful alternative antigen for neurocysticercosis (NC) serodiagnosis, particularly due to an increasing difficulty to obtain
Taenia solium
homologous antigen. Cross-reactivity with
Echinococcus granulosus
infection occurs in homologous and heterologous antigens and could be avoided by using different purified methods. The present study evaluated antigen fractions obtained from saline extracts of
T. saginata
metacestodes purified by affinity chromatography with jacalin or concanavalin A (ConA) lectins to detect IgG antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblot analysis to diagnose human NC. Serum samples were collected from 142 individuals: 40 of them were diagnosed with NC, 62 presented
Taenia
sp. and other parasites, and 40 were apparently healthy individuals. The jacalin- and ConA-unbound fractions demonstrated sensitivity and specificity higher than those of bound fractions. Among unbound fractions, ConA demonstrated statistically higher sensitivity and specificity by ELISA (90% and 93.1%, respectively). By immunoblot assay, the 64- to 68-kDa component from the ConA-unbound fraction showed 100% sensitivity and specificity, making this component suitable for use as a specific antigen for diagnosis of NC. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the relevance of using the unbound ConA fraction of
T. saginata
metacestodes to diagnose NC. In conclusion, the results obtained herein clearly demonstrate that antigenic fractions without affinity to ConA, obtained from
T. saginata
metacestodes, are an important source of specific peptides and are efficient in the diagnosis of NC when tested by immunoblot assay.
The reduction of doxorubicin at a mercury electrode and monitoring its interaction with DNA using constant current chronopotentiometry
Authors: Vacek Jan , Havran Luděk , Fojta Miroslav
Published: February 2010

In this report, voltammetry with linear scan and chronopotentiometric stripping (CPS) with constant current were used for the analysis of doxorubicin (DOX) at a hanging mercury drop electrode (HMDE). CPS was used for the study of DOX in situ electrochemical reduction in adsorbed state and for ex situ (adsorptive transfer) analysis of the drug. For the first time, CPS was used to study the reversible reduction of the DOX quinine moiety at –0.45 V (vs Ag|AgCl|3 M KCl) as well as electrode processes giving rise to an irreversible signal around –1.45 V at the HMDE in 0.2 M acetate or Britton–Robinson buffers at different pH values. The dependence of the latter signal on pH revealed involvement of protonation equilibria; however, neither CV nor CPS data confirmed the catalytic character of the electrode reaction previously suggested by other authors. The CPS method was also applied to monitor the DOX interaction with double- (ds) and single-stranded (ss) DNA. In the presence of dsDNA, more pronounced changes in DOX signal intensity were observed, in agreement with a strong intercalation of the DOX redox centre into the DNA double helix.
Tailor-made finance versus tailor-made care. Can the state strengthen consumer choice in healthcare by reforming the financial structure of long-term care?: Table 1
Authors: Grit K , de Bont A
Published: February 2010

Background

Policy instruments based on the working of markets have been introduced to empower consumers of healthcare. However, it is still not easy to become a critical consumer of healthcare.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to analyse the possibilities of the state to strengthen the position of patients with the aid of a new financial regime, such as personal health budgets.

Methods

Data were collected through in-depth interviews with executives, managers, professionals and client representatives of six long-term care institutions.

Results

With the introduction of individual budgets the responsibility for budgetary control has shifted from the organisational level to the individual level in the caregiver-client relationship. Having more luxurious care on offer necessitates a stronger demarcation of regular care because organisations cannot simultaneously offer extra care as part of the standard care package. New financial instruments have an impact on the culture of receiving and giving care. Distributive justice takes on new meaning with the introduction of financial market mechanisms in healthcare; the distributing principle of ‘need’ is transformed into the principle of ‘economic demand’.

Conclusion

Financial instruments not only act as a countervailing power against providers insufficiently client-oriented, but are also used by providers to reinforce their own positions vis-à-vis demanding clients. Tailor-made finance is not the same as tailor-made care.
Apotemnophilia: ethical considerations of amputating a healthy limb
Authors: Dua A
Published: February 2010

Apotemnophilia is a condition that causes those who have it to not feel “correct” in their own bodies. As a result, an intense obsession develops with removing the limb; this obsession hinders tremendously the patients' social behaviour and societal integration. These patients, in some respects resembling transgendered individuals, feel that the body part (limb) in question is simply “not a part of themselves”, causing them to feel uncomfortable in their own bodies. Whether amputations should be performed on apotemnophiles or not is a question that poses a significant medical ethical dilemma. It is argued that observing an apotemnophile's request for amputation is the ethical action. The major arguments opposing such amputations and supporting such amputations are examined and critically analysed with regard to ethical principles—namely, patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice with regard to every person's “right to happiness”. Finally, a discourse on how the accepted notion ofharmdoes not apply to apotemnophilia is developed to justify the position that amputation is indeed medically the ethical choice.
Evaluation of treatment options for Atlantic Canadian seafood processing plant effluentA paper submitted to the Journal of Environmental Engineering and Science.
Authors: Jamieson Bryan Lee , Gonçalves Alex Augusto , Gagnon Graham A.
Published: February 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate different effluent treatment options for Atlantic Canadian seafood processing plants. Bench-scale testing with a 25-mesh screen, sedimentation (SED), and dissolved air flotation (DAF) was conducted. Treatment by SED and DAF was successful in reducing contaminant concentrations with maximum observed percent reductions: biochemical oxygen demand, BOD5 (90%); chemical oxygen demand, COD (60%); turbidity (99%); total suspended solids, TSS (95%); and ammonia nitrogen, NH3-N (50%). Bench-scale 25-mesh screen runs for select effluent types showed poor reduction efficiencies and appeared to provide inadequate removal of contaminants. Sedimentation and DAF using alum were effective at removing solids but less effective at removing soluble effluent components. Improved performance may be possible with further treatment technology optimization on an effluent specific basis.
Modelling wastewater effluent mixing and dispersion in a tidal channel
Authors: Li S. S. , Hodgins D. O.
Published: February 2010

The dilution and dispersion behaviour of wastewater effluent discharged from the Lions Gate Wastewater Treatment Plant into Burrard Inlet in British Columbia is investigated. This investigation focuses on the initial dilution zone, where low dilutions or high concentrations of contaminants contained in the effluent potentially pose a water-quality problem. We took the numerical approach and used field measurements of effluent dilutions, ambient stratification, and currents made in the vicinity of the discharge point for model input and verification. Predictions of effluent dilution and trapping compare well with the field results. We successfully determined the zone of exposure, effluent dilutions, trapping depths, and dispersion pathways as a function of discharge flow rate, ambient currents, and ambient stratification. It is shown that effluent trapping and dilutions in the initial dilution zone are governed mainly by the ambient currents, discharge rate, and, to a small extent, ambient stratification.
Determination of the optimal number of coverages for the rolling of chip seals
Authors: Lee Jaejun , Kim Y. Richard
Published: February 2010

This paper presents a method to determine the optimal protocol for rolling chip seals based on aggregate retention performance and aggregate embedment depth. To evaluate performance, the flip-over test (FOT), the Vialit test, the modified sand circle test, and the third-scale model mobile loading simulator (MMLS3) were employed. Two chip seal types (single and double) and three numbers of coverages (1, 3, and 5) were used as parameters to determine an optimal number of coverages. It was found from the aggregate retention test results and measured aggregate embedment depths that three coverages is the optimum number of coverages and the extra time needed for the two additional coverages cannot be justified.
Comparison of risk-based optimization models for reservoir management
Authors: Mahootchi M. , Ponnambalam K. , Tizhoosh H.R.
Published: February 2010

Risk minimization in stochastic systems is a challenging problem and this paper compares results of three different techniques in reservoir management. Two-stage stochastic programming (TSP) for maximizing expected benefits is a well-known method, Fletcher and Ponnambalam (FP) and Q-Learning are the two new methods in reservoir management, all of which can include risk minimization in the objective function. The water price uncertainties caused by deregulated markets are considered in addition to random inflows in optimization and simulation is used to compare the results and to develop a risk versus return trade-off curve. One of the contributions of this paper is to consider risk in the Q-Learning algorithm.
The effects of N:P ratio and nitrogen form on four major freshwater bacterial taxa in biofilms
Authors: Barlett Melissa A. , Leff Laura G.
Published: February 2010

Bacteria in freshwater systems play an important role in nutrient cycling through both assimilatory and dissimilatory processes. Biotic and abiotic components of the environment affect these transformations as does the stoichiometry of the nutrients. We examined responses of four major taxa of bacteria in biofilms subjected to various N:P molar ratios using either nitrate or ammonium as a nitrogen source. Fluorescent in situ hybridization was used to enumerate the Domain bacteria as well as the α-, β-, and γ-proteobacteria, and the Cytophaga–Flavobacteria cluster. Generally, bacterial responses to the treatments were limited. However, the Cytophaga–Flavobacteria and β-proteobacteria both responded more to the ammonium additions than nitrate, whereas, the α-proteobacteria responded more to nitrate additions. The β-proteobacteria also exhibited peak relative abundance at the highest N:P ratio. Nutrient concentrations were significantly different after the incubation period, and there were distinct changes in the stoichiometry of the microcosms with ammonium. We demonstrated that bacteria may play an important role in nutrient uptake, and transformation, and can have a dramatic effect on the nutrient stoichiometry of the surrounding water. However, although some taxa exhibited differences in response to ammonium and nitrate, the impact of nutrient stoichiometry on the abundance of the taxa examined was limited.
Effects of the invasive plant garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) on bacterial communities in a northern hardwood forest soil
Authors: Burke David J. , Chan Charlotte R.
Published: February 2010

We compared the effects of the invasive plant Alliaria petiolata (garlic mustard) and 2 native plants on soil bacterial communities in a mature mesophytic forest. Soil samples were collected from plant patches containing either Alliaria or the native plants Allium tricoccum (wild leek) and Gallium triflorum (bedstraw). Since Alliaria litter contains secondary compounds that have reported antimicrobial properties, soil was collected outside the root zone of the plants but within the plant patches such that the soil would have been influenced by the litter of the respective plant species but not by plant roots. DNA was extracted from the soil samples and used to amplify the 16S rRNA gene region using bacterial specific primers. Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (TRFLP) profiles of each bacterial community were used to examine differences in bacterial communities among the plant species and between August and April sampling. Bacterial richness, evenness, and diversity were not significantly affected by plant species. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMS) suggested that differences existed between August and April sampling, but that plant species litter exerted a much weaker effect on soil bacterial communities. Soil physiochemical conditions were significantly correlated with soil bacterial communities and may underlie the observed seasonal changes in bacterial communities.
Microbial community of salt crystals processed from Mediterranean seawater based on 16S rRNA analysis
Authors: Baati Houda , Guermazi Sonda , Gharsallah Neji , Sghir Abdelghani , Ammar Emna
Published: February 2010

Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA was used to investigate for the first time the structure of the microbial community that inhabits salt crystals retrieved from the bottom of a solar saltern, located in the coastal area of the Mediterranean Sea (Sfax, Tunisia). This community lives in an extremely salty environment of 250–310 g/L total dissolved salt. A total of 78 bacterial 16S rRNA clone sequences making up to 21 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), determined by the DOTUR program to 97% sequence similarity, was analyzed. These OTUs were affiliated to Bacteroidetes (71.4% of OTUs), and γ-Proteobacteria and α-Proteobacteria (equally represented by 14.2% of the OTUs observed). The archaeal community composition appeared more diverse with 68 clones, resulting in 44 OTUs, all affiliated with the Euryarchaeota phylum. Of the bacterial and archaeal clones showing <97% 16S rRNA sequence identity with sequences in public databases, 47.6% and 84.1% respectively were novel clones. Both rarefaction curves and diversity measurements (Simpson, Shannon–Weaver, Chao) showed a more diverse archaeal than bacterial community at the Tunisian solar saltern pond. The analysis of an increasing clone’s number may reveal additional local diversity.
Short hairpin RNA-mediated inhibition of measles virus replication in vitro
Authors: Shi Jun-Yan , Liu Bing , Wang Mei-Lian , Luo En-Jie
Published: February 2010

Rab9 has been identified as a key component for the replication of measles virus (MV). In this study, gene-specific shRNAs were developed to suppress the replication of MV in culture cells by silencing the expression of Rab9 GTPase gene. Rab9 GTPase gene-specific shRNAs were designed and cloned into the expression vector of pSUPER.neo+EGFP. Vero-E6 cells were transfected with the recombinant plasmid via liposome and then infected with MV. The expression of Rab9 GTPase mRNA and protein were assayed by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. ShRNA-mediated inhibition of MV replication was further evaluated by detecting the titer of MV. The results showed that the expression of Rab9 GTPase was dramatically and stably downregulated by the generated shRNAs targeting Rab9 GTPase gene, which contribute to the inhibition of MV replication, indicating these shRNAs could be potentially developed into therapeutic agents for the treatment of MV infection in the future.
Comparison of antifungal efficacies of moxifloxacin, liposomal amphotericin B, and combination treatment in experimental Candida albicans endophthalmitis in rabbits
Authors: Deren Yudum Tiftikcioğlu , Özdek Şengül , Kalkanci Ayşe , Akyürek Nalan , Hasanreisoğlu Berati
Published: February 2010

The goal of this study was to compare in vitro and in vivo efficacy of moxifloxacin and liposomal amphotericin B (Amp-B) monotherapies and combination treatment against Candida albicans in an exogenous endophthalmitis model in rabbit eyes. Microplate dilution tests and checkerboard analysis were performed to detect in vitro efficacies. Endophthalmitis was induced by intravitreal injection of C. albicans in 40 rabbit eyes with simultaneous intravitreal drug injection according to prophylactic treatment groups. Group 1 (control group) received 0.1 mL of balanced salt solution, group 2 (moxi group) 100 µg moxifloxacin/0.1 mL, group 3 (Amp-B group) 10 µg liposomal Amp-B/0.1 mL, and group 4 (combi group) both 100 µg moxifloxacin/0.05 mL and 10 µg liposomal Amp-B/0.05 mL intravitreally. Clinical examination, quantitative analysis of microorganisms, and histopathologic examination were performed as in vivo studies. The minimum inhibitory concentration of liposomal Amp-B against C. albicans was found to be 1 µg/mL. Moxifloxacin showed no inhibition of in vitro C. albicans growth. The minimum inhibitory concentration values of liposomal Amp-B for C. albicans were reduced two- to eightfold with increasing concentrations of moxifloxacin in vitro. In vivo, there was no C. albicans growth in the combi group (zero of eight eyes), whereas three eyes (37.5%) showed growth in the Amp-B group. Vitreous inflammation, retinal detachment, focal retinal necrosis, and outer nuclear layer loss were found to be lower in the moxi group compared with the control group. Ganglion cell and inner nuclear layer loss was observed in all eyes (100%) in both the moxi and combi groups, whereas only in 25% (two of eight eyes) in the Amp-B group. Moxifloxacin strongly augments the efficacy of liposomal Amp-B against C. albicans in vitro, although it has no in vitro antifungal activity when used alone. It is interesting that we found a synergistic effect for in vitro tests but failed to demonstrate it in vivo. When 100 µg moxifloxacin/0.1 mL is given intravitreally, it has some toxic effects that are limited to the inner retinal layers.
Optimization and validation of rep-PCR genotypic libraries for microbial source tracking of environmental Escherichia coli isolates
Authors: Lyautey Emilie , Lu Zexun , Lapen David R. , Berkers Tanya E. , Edge Thomas A. , Topp Edward
Published: February 2010

Escherichia coli can be used to help identify sources of fecal contamination in the environment. Escherichia coli genotypic fecal libraries and pattern-matching algorithms were assessed for their effectiveness in correctly identifying sources. Fecal samples (n = 172) were collected from various sources from three agricultural landscapes in Canada. Escherichia coli isolates were fingerprinted using BOX- and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) - polymerase chain reaction primers, revealing 769 and 1 057 distinct genotypes, respectively, for the 9 047 isolates collected in 2004 in Ontario. The average rate of correct classification (ARCC) was comparable for BOX- (48%) and ERIC-based (62%) libraries and between libraries with clones removed per sample (55%) and clones removed per unit (54%). ARCC increased with fewer classification units (from 44% to 65%). ARCC for k-nearest neighbour (64%) and maximum similarity (60%) algorithms were comparable, but maximum similarity had better sensitivity and specificity than k-nearest neighbour. Geographical and temporal shifts in community composition resulted in loss of accuracy. Several ERIC genotypes (n = 112) were common between sources and were removed from the library, improving ARCC (77%). The latter library proved to be more accurate, but its accuracy with respect to sourcing environmental isolates remains to be tested.
RUELLE'S INEQUALITY FOR ISOTROPIC ORNSTEIN–UHLENBECK FLOWS
Authors: BARGEN HOLGER VAN
Published: February 2010

Ruelle's inequality asserts that the entropy of a dynamical system is bounded from above by the Lyapunov characteristic numbers counted with their multiplicities. We show that this inequality holds true in the case of a random dynamical system deduced from an isotropic Ornstein–Uhlenbeck-flow (IOUF).
Functional ion channels in mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells
Authors: Han Yi , Chen Jia-Dao , Liu Zu-Mei , Zhou Yuan , Xia Jia-Hong , Du Xin-Ling , Jin Man-Wen
Published: February 2010

Cardiac c-kit+ cells are generally believed to be the major population of stem/progenitor cells in the heart and can be used as a cell source for cardiomyoplasty; however, the cellular electrophysiological properties are not understood in this type of cells. The present study was designed to investigate functional ion channels in undifferentiated mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells using approaches of whole cell patch voltage clamp, RT-PCR, and cell proliferation assay. It was found that three types of ionic currents were present in mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells, including a delayed rectifier K+ current (IKDR) inhibited by 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), an inward rectifier K+ current ( IKir) decreased by Ba2+, and a volume-sensitive chloride current ( ICl.vol) inhibited by 5-nitro-1-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB). RT-PCR revealed that the corresponding ion channel genes, Kv1.1, Kv1.2, and Kv1.6 (for IKDR), Kir.1.1, Kir2.1, and Kir2.2 (likely responsible for IKir), and Clcn3 (for ICl.vol), were significant in mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells. The inhibition of ICl.vol with NPPB and niflumic acid, but not IKDR with 4-AP and tetraethylammonium, reduced cell proliferation and accumulated the cell progression at G0/G1 phase in mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells. Our results demonstrate that three types of functional ion channel currents (i.e., IKDR, IKir, and ICl.vol) are present in mouse cardiac c-kit+ cells, and ICl.vol participates in regulating cell proliferation.
Determination of Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone Levels in Saliva for Screening of Periodontitis in Older Japanese Adults
Authors: Ansai Toshihiro , Soh Inho , Ishisaka Aiko , Yoshida Akihiro , Awano Shuji , Hamasaki Tomoko , Sonoki Kazuo , Takata Yutaka , Takehara Tadamichi
Published: February 2010

Background. Recent reports have found a positive relationship between periodontitis and the hormones cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). We investigated the associations between those levels and periodontitis in never-smokers and smokers of elderly subjects.Subjects and Methods. Cortisol and DHEA levels in saliva were determined in 171 subjects (85 males, 86 females), with clinical examinations including probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) also performed.Results. Smoking had effects on cortisol and DHEA levels, and those were significantly associated with severe PD and CAL in never-smokers. According to ROC analysis, the cutoff values of cortisol and DHEA to obtain the optimal sensitivity and specificity for detecting severe periodontitis were 2.06 ng/mL and 60.24 pg/mL, respectively, for PD, and 2.12 ng/mL and 61.78 pg/mL, respectively, for CAL.Conclusions. Assessment of hormone levels may be a useful screening method for periodontitis, though limited to never-smokers.
Photoluminescence Spectroscopy of CdTe/ZnTe Self‐Assembled Quantum Dots
Authors: Romčević Nebojša , Romčević Maja , Kostić Radmila , Stojanović Dušanka , Milutinović Aleksandra , Trajić Jelena , Karczewski Grzegorz , Galazka Robert
Published: February 2010

We present photoluminescence (PL) measurements of two different, 3 monolayers and 12 monolayers (ml), CdTe self‐assembled quantum dot (SAQD) samples. The spectra were recorded in the temperature range 20 K–300 K, with photoexcitation over the ZnTe barrier layer. PL spectra displayed two main emission bands. High‐energy PL emission (E1) is ZnTe LO like phonon‐ (ωLO = 204.2 cm−1 (3 ml), ωLO = 207.3 cm−1 (12 ml)) assisted deexcitation. Dominant low‐energy band (E2) presents the direct deexcitation to ground state of the CdTe quantum dots.
Response of Fibroblastic Rheumatism to Infliximab
Authors: Romiti Ricardo , Levy Neto Mauricio , Menta Simonsen Nico Marcello
Published: February 2010

Onset is usually sudden with symmetrical articular involvement of both small and large joints, occurrence of solid skin nodules, and rapid progression. Treatment is generally unrewarding. Here we report a severe and disabling case of FR responding favorably to infliximab therapy. After 32 weeks of continuous treatment, skin lesions dramatically improved and arthropathy partially regressed.
Riesz Potentials for Korteweg‐de Vries Solitons and Sturm‐Liouville Problems
Authors: Varlamov Vladimir
Published: February 2010

Riesz potentials (also called Riesz fractional derivatives) and their Hilbert
transforms are computed for the Korteweg‐de Vries soliton. They are expressed
in terms of the full‐range Hurwitz Zeta functions ζ+(s, a) and ζ−(s, a).
It is proved that these Riesz potentials and their Hilbert transforms are linearly
independent solutions of a Sturm‐Liouville problem. Various new
properties are established for this family of functions. The fact that the
Wronskian of the system is positive leads to a new inequality for the Hurwitz
Zeta functions.
Broadcast Network Coverage with Multicell Cooperation
Authors: Li Hongxiang , Khan Samee Ullah , Liu Hui
Published: February 2010

Multicell cooperation has been identified as one of the underlying principles for future wireless communication systems. This paper studies the benefits of multicell cooperation in broadcast TV network from an information theoretical perspective. We define outage capacity as the figure of merit and derive the broadcast coverage area to evaluate such system. Specifically, we calculate the broadcast coverage area with given common information rate and outage probabilities when multiple base stations collaboratively transmit the broadcast signals. For the general MIMO case where receivers have multiple antennas, we provide simulation results to illustrate the expanded coverage area. In all cases, our results show that the coverage of a TV broadcast network can be significantly improved by multicell cooperation.
Chronic Renal Failure, Cachexia, and Ghrelin
Authors: Laviano A. , Krznaric Z. , Sanchez-Lara K. , Preziosa I. , Cascino A. , Rossi Fanelli F.
Published: February 2010

Protein energy wasting is frequently observed in patients with advanced chronic renal failure and end-stage renal disease. Anorexia and reduced food intake are critical contributing factors and negatively impact on patients' survival. Ghrelin is a prophagic peptide produced by the stomach and acting at the hypothalamic level to increase the activity of orexigenic neurons. In patients with chronic renal disease, plasma levels are increased as a likely effect of reduced renal clearance. Nevertheless, patients' food intake is significantly reduced, suggesting inflammation-mediated resistance of hypothalamic nuclei to peripheral signals. A number of forms of evidence show that ghrelin resistance could be overcome by the administration of exogenous ghrelin. Therefore, ghrelin has been proposed as a potential strategy to improve food intake in chronic renal failure patients with protein energy wasting. Preliminary data are encouraging although larger prospective clinical trials are needed to confirm the results and to identify those patients who are likely to benefit most from the administration of exogenous ghrelin.
Control of Limit Cycle Oscillations of a Two‐Dimensional Aeroelastic System
Authors: Ghommem M. , Nayfeh A. H. , Hajj M. R.
Published: February 2010

Linear and nonlinear static feedback controls are implemented on a nonlinear aeroelastic system that consists of a rigid airfoil supported by nonlinear springs in the pitch and plunge directions and subjected to nonlinear aerodynamic loads. The normal form is used to investigate the Hopf bifurcation that occurs as the freestream velocity is increased and to analytically predict the amplitude and frequency of the ensuing limit cycle oscillations (LCO). It is shown that linear control can be used to delay the flutter onset and reduce the LCO amplitude. Yet, its required gains remain a function of the speed. On the other hand, nonlinear control can be effciently implemented to convert any subcritical Hopf bifurcation into a supercritical one and to significantly reduce the LCO amplitude.
Preclinical Studies of Chemotherapy Using Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Takai Noriyuki , Narahara Hisashi
Published: February 2010

Because epigenetic alterations are believed to be involved in the repression of tumor suppressor genes and promotion of tumorigenesis in endometrial cancers, novel compounds endowed with a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activity are an attractive therapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss the biologic and therapeutic effects of HDAC inhibitors (HDACIs) in treating endometrial cancer. HDACIs were able to mediate inhibition of cell growth, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and the expression of genes related to the malignant phenotype in a variety of endometrial cancer cell lines. Furthermore, HDACIs were able to induce the accumulation of acetylated histones in the chromatin of the p21WAF1 gene in human endometrial carcinoma cells. In xenograft models, some HDACIs have demonstrated antitumor activity with only few side effects. In this review, we discuss the biologic and therapeutic effects of HDACIs in treating endometrial cancer, with a special focus on preclinical studies.
Interleukin-1 Resets Glucose Homeostasis at Central and Peripheral Levels: Relevance for Immunoregulation
Authors: Besedovsky Hugo O. , del Rey Adriana
Published: February 2010

We briefly discuss here evidence showing that the capacity of IL-1β to mediate adjustments of glucose homeostasis can be added to the already well-known pleiotropic effects of this cytokine. Such adjustments, which are necessary for satisfying the high energetic demands of immune/inflammatory responses, can be mediated by effects of endogenous IL-1 exerted at peripheral and brain levels in a concerted action with other cytokines and neuroendocrine mechanisms.
Keeping the Balance between Immune Tolerance and Pathogen Immunity with Endogenous Neuropeptides
Authors: Gonzalez-Rey Elena
Published: February 2010

Identification of the factors that regulate the immune tolerance and control the appearance of exacerbated inflammatory conditions is crucial for the development of new therapies of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Although much is known about the molecular basis of initiating signals and pro-inflammatory chemical mediators in inflammation, it has only recently become apparent that endogenous stop signals are critical at early checkpoints within the temporal events of inflammation. Some neuropeptides and hormones that are produced during the ongoing inflammatory response have emerged as endogenous anti-inflammatory agents that participate in the regulation of the processes that ensure self-tolerance and/or inflammation resolution. We will examine the latest research findings, which indicate that neuropeptides participate in maintaining immune tolerance in two distinct ways: by regulating the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, and by inducing the emergence of regulatory T cells with suppressive activity against autoreactive T cell effectors. We will also examine the role of some of these neuropeptides as mediators of innate defense acting as natural antimicrobial peptides. Both anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving neuropeptides have shown therapeutic potential for a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders and could be used as biotemplates for the development of novel pharmacologic agents. From a physiological point of view, neuropeptides play a critical role in the innate-adaptive immune cross talk that allows survival.
Chronic Expression of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Enhances Adult Neurogenesis
Authors: Mathieu Patricia , Piantanida Ana Paula , Pitossi Fernando
Published: February 2010

Neural stem cells reside in two neurogenic regions of the adult brain: the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus (DG) and the subventricular zone (SVZ). Their proliferation, differentiation, migration and survival are modulated by intrinsic and extrinsic signals, forming a neurogenic niche. Brain cytokines have only been recently regarded as possible components of this neurogenic niche. In particular, we have demonstrated that transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has a pro-neurogenic effect in the DG in a model of increased neurogenesis by adrenalectomy. We wanted to test whether TGF-β has a similar effect in another neurogenic region, namely the SVZ. To test this possibility, adult rats were injected with adenoviral vectors expressing TGF-β (Ad-TGF) or β-galactosidase (Ad-bgal) in the SVZ and neurogenesis was evaluated 3 weeks later. We have observed that chronic TGF-β expression increased neurogenesis in the ipsilateral hemisphere of Ad-TGF but not in Ad-bgal-treated rats compared to their contralateral side. In addition, an unspecific effect of the adenoviral vector per se could not be totally discarded. We conclude, under our experimental conditions, that TGF-β could enhance adult neurogenesis in the SVZ. This data increase the growing evidence supporting a pro-neurogenic role of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the adult brain.
Models of Aging of Neuroimmunomodulation: Strategies for Its Improvement
Authors: De la Fuente Mónica , Gimenez-Llort Lydia
Published: February 2010

Communication between the nervous and the immune systems suffers impairment with aging, which explains the altered homeostasis and the resulting increase of morbidity and mortality in aged subjects. In humans, rats and specially in mice, we have proposed several models to study this fact. The established models of premature aging have been mice and humans with poor response to stress and anxiety versus subjects of the same chronological age without that characteristic, isolation, males versus females, menopausal models (in rodents after ovariectomy) and obesity. In all cases, the prematurely aged animals suffer an alteration of the nervous system (shown by behavioral tests) and immunosenescence as well as oxidative and inflammatory stress, which is followed by early mortality. In addition, in the above-mentioned models and in normal chronological aging, we have observed the effect of several lifestyle strategies, such as ingestion of adequate amounts of antioxidants, performance of moderate physical exercise, and different kinds of environmental enrichment, which improve the function of the immune cells and their redox state as well as animal behavior. Therefore, they retard the aging process and seem to increase the longevity of the individuals.
The CXCL12/CXCR4 Pair in Aged Human Thymus
Authors: Hernández-López Carmen , Varas Alberto , Sacedón Rosa , Martínez Victor G. , Hidalgo Laura , Valencia Jaris , Zapata Agustín G. , Vicente Ángeles
Published: February 2010

CXCL12 is an important CXC chemokine involved in numerous biological processes. We had previously demonstrated the synergistic participation of CXCL12 and IL-7 in the control of both survival and proliferation of CD34+ human thymic lymphoid progenitors. On this basis, we hypothesize a presumptive role for CXCL12 and its receptor, CXCR4, in the thymus involution. In this respect, in the current report we describe the expression of both molecules in the human thymus during aging. Our results demonstrate that, despite the profound alterations observed in the thymic epithelial microenvironment of aged thymuses, the proportions of different CD4/CD8 thymocyte subsets do not undergo significant variations. Remarkably, a strong CXCL12 expression was found in older thymuses, which appeared in the same locations as in younger thymuses: the subcapsulary and medullary areas. The proportions of CXCR4+ cells, most of them belonging to the CD3– compartment, showed no important variations in the older thymuses. However, within the CD34+ cell population, a significant reduction in the expression of CXCR4 molecules was observed.
Overfeeding-Induced Obesity in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats: An Animal Model of the Human Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Miesel Anja , Müller Helge , Thermann Margot , Heidbreder Marc , Dominiak Peter , Raasch Walter
Published: February 2010

Background/Aims: The metabolic syndrome (MS) has become an epidemiological problem in Western countries. We developed a diet-induced obese rat model that mimics all the symptoms of MS in humans, but whose insulin resistance, hyperphagia and hyperleptinemia are caused by nutrition rather than genetic modifications. Methods: Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were allowed for 12 weeks to choose between a cafeteria diet (CD, 20.3 kJ/g) and standard rat chow (11.7 kJ/g). Controls received rat chow. Results: Body weight (BW) exceeded control levels when SHR were fed with CD. The increase in BW was attributed to enhanced energy intake. The abundance of abdominal fat as well as the plasma levels of leptin and triglycerides increased concomitant with glucose, insulin and C-peptide. This prediabetic condition was further confirmed by a markedly increased insulin response following glucose challenge and by impaired glucose utilization after insulin tolerance tests. Conclusion: Increases in food intake and BW despite hyperleptinemia indicate leptin resistance following CD feeding. CD-fed SHR feature leptin and insulin resistance, hypertension and obesity, thus mimicking the situation of MS patients. As such, our model is more suitable than the genetically modified rat models used to study human MS.
PGC-1α and Myokines in the Aging Muscle – A Mini-Review
Authors: Arnold Anne-Sophie , Egger Anna , Handschin Christoph
Published: February 2010

Aging is associated with far-reaching changes in physiological functions resulting in morbidity and ultimately death. Age-related frailty, insecurity and reduced physical activity contribute to a progressive loss of muscle mass and function, commonly referred to as sarcopenia. Due to the increase in life expectancy in many countries, loss of muscle mass and its consequences gain in relevance for public health. At the same time, the molecular mechanisms that underlie sarcopenia are poorly understood and therefore, therapeutic approaches are limited. Interestingly though, endurance, strength and stretching exercise is significantly superior to all known pharmacological, nutritional and hormonal interventions for stabilizing, alleviating and reversing sarcopenia. Thus, increased knowledge about the plastic changes of skeletal muscle after physical activity and the signaling factors that mediate the beneficial effects of exercise on other organs might yield a better understanding of the disease and open new avenues for treatment. Here, we discuss how current discoveries about the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), a key exercise factor in muscle, and myokines, factors produced and secreted by active muscle fibers, expand our view of the pathological changes and the therapeutic options for sarcopenia.
Venous thromboembolism risk and prophylaxis in hospitalised medically ill patients
Authors: Cohen Alexander , Tapson Victor , Goldhaber Samuel , Kakkar Ajay , Deslandes Bruno , Huang Wei , Anderson Frederick , Bergmann Jean-Francois ,   for the ENDORSE Investigators
Published: February 2010

Limited data are available regarding the risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) and VTE prophylaxis use in hospitalised medically ill patients. We analysed data from the global ENDORSE survey to evaluate VTE risk and prophylaxis use in this population according to diagnosis, baseline characteristics, and country. Data on patient characteristics, VTE risk, and prophylaxis use were abstracted from hospital charts. VTE risk and prophylaxis use were evaluated according to the 2004 American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) guidelines. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify factors associated with use of ACCP-recommended prophylaxis. Data were evaluated for 37,356 hospitalised medical patients across 32 countries. VTE risk varied according to medical diagnosis, from 31.2% of patients with gastrointestinal/hepatobiliary diseases to 100% of patients with acute heart failure, active non-infectious respiratory disease, or pulmonary infection (global rate, 41.5%). Among those at risk for VTE, ACCP-recommended prophylaxis was used in 24.4% haemorrhagic stroke patients and 40–45% of cardiopulmonary disease patients (global rate, 39.5%). Large differences in prophylaxis use were observed among countries. Markers of disease severity, including central venous catheters, mechanical ventilation, and admission to intensive care units, were strongly associated with use of ACCP-recommended prophylaxis. In conclusion, VTE risk varies according to medical diagnosis. Less than 40% of at-risk hospitalised medical patients receive ACCP-recommended prophylaxis. Prophylaxis use appears to be associated with disease severity rather than medical diagnosis. These data support the necessity to improve implementation of available guidelines for evaluating VTE risk and providing prophylaxis to hospitalised medical patients.
Similarities and Contrasts in the Creative Processes of the Sciences and the Arts
Authors: Guillemin Roger
Published: February 2010

The author describes his experiences as first a scientist and later an early digital artist, which led him to recognize both similarities and contrasts in the thinking and practice of art and science.
“On the Hand from Within”: Palms, Selfhood and Generation in Leonardo's Anatomical Project
Authors: Dovev Lea
Published: February 2010

This study focuses on a handdissection report in Leonardo's anatomical investigations, a page whose reception-history is rich with approbation and lacunae. The hermeneutic of suspicion that the author proposes explores this folio as a case for the claim that Leonardo's meandering page-configurations relay more than is revealed in his overt arguments. At issue is a tacit discourse of the palm as the epitome of selfhood, a site of intimacy that undermines the primacy of sight in Leonardo's manifest texts. The palm, a matrixial organ, is thus linked to the economy of lacks, desires and transferences that underlies Vincian art theory.
Rethinking Business Models as Value Creating Systems
Authors: Fuller Ted , Warren Lorraine , Thelwall Sarah , Alamdar Fizza , Rae David
Published: February 2010

The generic notion of a business model is well understood by investors and business managers and implies a number of anticipations; chiefly that it is a replicable process that produces revenues and profits. At its heart is some replicable process, artefact or proposition around which the everyday practices are formed. There are a number of reasons why this conception is weak in the Creative Industries. We have identified that the rationale for ‘business models’ in the Creative Industries includes providing an attractor for non goal oriented creative activity, for stabilising emergent properties from creative activities and for maintaining the stability of these by anticipating revenues.
The Effect of Initiatives on Local Government Spending
Authors: Primo David M.
Published: February 2010

Tools of direct democracy, such as the citizen initiative, are available at both the state and local levels in the United States, yet models of the process typically do not consider these institutions in tandem. In this article, I develop a model of local fiscal policy that incorporates the impact of a statewide as well as a local initiative process. I posit that the statewide initiative process leads to lower levels of state spending, additional spending mandates on the local level, and reduced deadweight costs of taxation, with these three factors leading to an increase in local spending. I then show that the ability of interest groups to secure particularistic spending through the local initiative has a similarly pro-spending impact. Subsequently, I explore data from the year 2000 in over 600 cities with a population greater than 25,000 and find that the spending-enhancing effects of the local initiative are strong when signature requirements are low, leading to a 12—14 percent increase in spending compared to local governments without such an initiative process in place.
Antioxidant Properties of Ethanolic Extract from Ramulus mori (Sangzhi)
Authors: Zuofa Zhang  , Jie Jin  , Liangen Shi
Published: February 2010

The antioxidant properties and total phenolic contents of four fractions of ethanolic extract from Ramulus mori were examined. Various experimental models including superoxide radical, hydroxyl radical, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radicals (DPPH) scavenging activity, metal chelating activity, and reducing power were used for characterization of their antioxidant activity. The four fractions showed various degrees of efficacy in each assay in a dose-dependent manner. The third fraction with the highest amount of total phenolics was the most potent antioxidant in all assays used. In addition, the most powerful compound (oxyresveratrol) was isolated and identified followed by on-line HPLC method and characterized by different spectral analysis. Oxyresveratrol exhibited impressive antioxidant activities in scavenging the superoxide radical, hydroxide radical, and DPPH. On the basis of the results obtained, Ramulus mori may serve as a potential source of natural antioxidant due to its significant antioxidant activity and oxyresveratrol may be the most powerful antioxidant in ethanolic extracts of Ramulus mori.
Handling Practices to Control Ascorbic Acid and β-Carotene Lossess in Collards (Brassica oleracea)
Authors: Campos F.M. , Chaves J.B.P. , de Azeredo R.M.C. , Oliveira D.S. , Pinheiro Sant'Ana H.M.
Published: February 2010

Knowledge of the alterations in the nutrient content of vegetables after harvest and during preparation is still limited although studies have been reported. The objective of this study was to select handling practices to control losses of vitamin C (ascorbic acid (AA) and dehydroascorbic acid) and β-carotene in collards during storage, sanitization, slicing, and time after preparation. Determination of carotenoids was carried out by HPLC. β-carotene retention was greater at 10°C than 23°C after 24-h storage. Sanitization for a period longer than 15 min negatively affected AA retention in the sample stored under refrigeration. Increased waiting time between frying and consumption of stir-fried collards increased AA losses both in sliced and torn collards. Storage under refrigeration, sanitization time control, and reduced time between preparation and consumption are therefore recommended.
Kinetics of Peroxides Degradation to Hexenal During Bleaching of High Oleic Safflower Oil
Authors: Ortega-García J. , Noriega-Rodríguez J.A. , Gámez-Meza N. , García H.S. , Angulo J.O. , Medina-Juárez L.A.
Published: February 2010

Bleaching is an important step of the vegetal oil refining for the removal of impurities. Some of the reactions that take place during this stage can be explained by the catalytic properties of bleaching clays. The most important reaction is the decomposition of peroxides to secondary oxidation products, mainly trans-2-hexenal. Therefore, in the present study, empirical and mathematical models were applied to predict the kinetic parameters of peroxide reduction and the formation of trans-2-hexenal during bleaching of high oleic safflower oil. For this, neutralized high oleic safflower oil was mixed with bleaching clay (Tonsil Optimum 320 FF) at three different concentrations (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% based on the weight of the oil), in a laboratory reactor with agitation at 90 °C, 100 °C, and 110±1 °C during 60 min. Results showed that the first-order mathematical model is suitable to predict both peroxide reduction and formation of trans-2-hexenal (R2> 0.90). Kinetics parameters of initial rate (k0) and the decontamination constant (kd) suggest a high correlation between peroxide reduction to trans-2-hexenal and clays used for bleaching high oleic safflower oil. This information may be used to design particular bleaching conditions for high oleic safflower oil.