bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potent Antifungal Activity of Pure Compounds from Traditional Chinese Medicine Extracts against Six OralCandidaSpecies and the Synergy with Fluconazole against Azole-ResistantCandida albicans
Authors: Yan Zhimin , Hua Hong , Xu Yanying , Samaranayake Lakshman P.
Published: February 2012

This study was designed to evaluate thein vitroantifungal activities of four traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extracts. The inhibitory effects of pseudolaric acid B, gentiopicrin, rhein, and alion were assessed using standard disk diffusion and broth microdilution assays. They were tested against six oralCandidaspecies,Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, Candida krusei, Candida dubliniensis,andCandida guilliermondii, including clinical isolates from HIV-negative, HIV-positive, and Sjögren's syndrome patients. It was found that pseudolaric acid B had the most potent antifungal effect and showed similar antifungal activity to all sixCandidaspp, and to isolates from HIV-negative, HIV-positive, and Sjögren's syndrome patients. The MIC values ranged from 16 to 128 μg/mL. More interestingly, a synergistic effect of pseudolaric acid B in combination with fluconazole was observed. We suggest that pseudolaric acid B might be a potential therapeutic fungicidal agent in treating oral candidiasis.
Cytotoxicity of Selected Medicinal and Nonmedicinal Plant Extracts to Microbial and Cervical Cancer Cells
Authors: Booth Gary M. , Malmstrom Robert D. , Kipp Erica , Paul Alexandra
Published: February 2012

This study investigated the cytotoxicity of 55 species of plants. Each plant was rated as medicinal, or nonmedicinal based on the existing literature. About 79% of the medicinal plants showed some cytotoxicity, while 75% of the nonmedicinal plants showed bioactivity. It appears that Asteraceae, Labiatae, Pinaceae, and Chenopodiaceae were particularly active against human cervical cancer cells. Based on the literature, only three of the 55 plants have been significantly investigated for cytotoxicity. It is clear that there is much toxicological work yet to be done with both medicinal and nonmedicinal plants.
Absorption Properties of Hybrid Composites of Gold Nanorods and Functionalized Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yu Deok-Jin , Ganta D. , Dale Elijah , Rosenberger A. T. , Wicksted James P. , Kalkan A. Kaan
Published: February 2012

We report on the optical properties of fabricated nanohybrid structures containing Au nanorods and functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotubes in aqueous solutions. In particular, the absorption spectra of these hybrid materials are studied as a function of the concentration of the functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotubes as well as the evolution time following preparation. The absorption spectra show a red shift of the longitudinal plasmon mode of the Au nanorods along with the emergence of broadened structures at wavelengths between 1000 and 1100 nm. These results, supported by TEM images, indicate the self‐assembly of the Au nanorods forming on the sidewalls of the functionalized SWNTs driven by polyelectrolyte interactions.
Robust Gene Expression Index
Authors: Purutçuoǧlu Vilda
Published: February 2012

The frequentist gene expression index (FGX) was recently developed
to measure expression on Affymetrix oligonucleotide DNA arrays.
In this study, we extend FGX to cover nonnormal log expressions,
specifically long‐tailed symmetric densities and call our new index as
robust gene expression index (RGX). In estimation, we implement the
modified maximum likelihood method to unravel the elusive solutions
of likelihood equations and utilize the Fisher information matrix for
covariance terms. From the analysis via the bench‐mark datasets and
simulated data, it is shown that RGX has promising results and mostly
outperforms FGX in terms of relative efficiency of the estimated signals,
in particular, when the data are nonnormal.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nitrogen-Doped Titanium Dioxide and Evaluation of Its Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Qian Junjie , Cui Guanjun , Jing Mingjun , Wang Yan , Zhang Min , Yang Jianjun
Published: February 2012

Nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide (N-dopedTiO2) photocatalyst was synthesized from nanotube titanic acid (denoted as NTA; molecular formulaH2Ti2O5·H2O) precursorviaa hydrothermal route in ammonia solution. As-synthesized N-dopedTiO2catalysts were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, diffuse reflectance spectrometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electron spin resonance spectrometry and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. It was found that nanotube ammonium titanate (NAT) was produced as an intermediate during the preparation of N-dopedTiO2from NTA, as evidenced by the N1sX-ray photoelectron spectroscopic peak ofNH4 +at 401.7 eV. The catalyst showed much higher activities to the degradation of methylene blue and p-chlorophenol under visible light irradiation than Degussa P25. This could be attributed to the enhanced absorption of N-dopedTiO2in visible light region associated with the formation of single-electron-trapped oxygen vacancies and the inhibition of recombination of photo-generated electron-hole pair by doped nitrogen.
The Absence of Nrf2 Enhances NF-B-Dependent Inflammation following Scratch Injury in Mouse Primary Cultured Astrocytes
Authors: Pan Hao , Wang Handong , Wang Xiaoliang , Zhu Lin , Mao Lei
Published: February 2012

It has been proved that Nrf2 depletion enhances inflammatory process through activation of NF-κB in the brain after TBI, but little is known about the relationship between Nrf2 and NF-κB in astrocytes after TBI. Hence, we used primary cultured astrocytes from either Nrf2 wildtype or knockout mice to study the influence of Nrf2 on the activation of NF-κB and expression of proinflammatory cytokines in a model of TBIin vitro. Primary cultured astrocytes were scratched to mimic the traumatic injuryin vitro. Then the DNA-binding activity of NF-κB was evaluated by EMSA. The mRNA and protein levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and MMP9 were also evaluated. Gelatin zymography was performed to detect the activity of MMP9. The activity of NF-κB and expression of proinflammatory cytokines mentioned above were upregulated at 24 h after scratch. The expression and activity of MMP9 were also elevated. And such tendency was much more prominent in Nrf2 KO astrocytes than that in WT astrocytes. These results suggest that the absence of Nrf2 may induce more aggressive inflammation through activation of NF-κB and downstream proinflammatory cytokines in astrocytes.
Finite Element Preconditioning on Spectral Element Discretizations for Coupled Elliptic Equations
Authors: Kwon JongKyum , Ryu Soorok , Kim Philsu , Kim Sang Dong
Published: February 2012

The uniform bounds on eigenvalues of are shown both analytically and numerically by
the 𝒫1 finite element preconditioner for the Legendre spectral element system which is arisen from a coupled elliptic system occurred by an optimal control problem. The finite element preconditioner is corresponding to a leading part of the coupled elliptic system.
Effect of Toki-Shakuyaku-San on Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Matsuoka Teruyuki , Narumoto Jin , Shibata Keisuke , Okamura Aiko , Taniguchi Shogo , Kitabayashi Yurinosuke , Fukui Kenji
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of toki-shakuyaku-san (TSS) on mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). All subjects were administered TSS (7.5 g/day) for eight weeks. SPECT and evaluations using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Neuropsychiatric Inventory, and Physical Self-Maintenance Scale were performed before and after treatment with TSS. Three patients with MCI and five patients with AD completed the study. No adverse events occurred during the study period. After treatment with TSS, regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in the posterior cingulate was significantly higher than that before treatment. No brain region showed a significant decrease in rCBF. TSS treatment also tended to improve the score for orientation to place on the MMSE. These results suggest that TSS could be useful for treatment of MCI and AD.
Brooke-Spiegler Syndrome with Multiple Scalp Cylindromas and Bilateral Parotid Gland Adenomas
Authors: Kalina Peter , el-Azhary Rokea
Published: February 2012

A 62-year-old female presented with numerous soft tissue lesions of her scalp and bilateral preauricular region. Several of these have been biopsied or removed with a diagnosis of cylindromas. Cylindromas are benign tumors with a differentiation towards apocrine sweat glands that increase in number and size throughout life. Multiple scalp cylindromas may coalesce and cover the entire scalp, resulting in the “turban tumor.” These are often associated with the autosomal dominant Brooke-Spiegler syndrome with coexistent facial trichoepitheliomas and spiradenomas. There is a very rare association between cylindromas and basal cell adenoma and adenocarcinoma of the parotid gland, with only 17 reported cases. Ours is the first CT demonstration of both the scalp and parotid gland findings in this uncommon situation.
Volumetric Diffuse Optical Tomography for Small Animals Using a CCD-Camera-Based Imaging System
Authors: Lin Zi-Jing , Niu Haijing , Li Lin , Liu Hanli
Published: February 2012

We report the feasibility of three-dimensional (3D) volumetric diffuse optical tomography for small animal imaging by using a CCD-camera-based imaging system with a newly developed depth compensation algorithm (DCA). Our computer simulations and laboratory phantom studies have demonstrated that the combination of a CCD camera and DCA can significantly improve the accuracy in depth localization and lead to reconstruction of 3D volumetric images. This approach may present great interests for noninvasive 3D localization of an anomaly hidden in tissue, such as a tumor or a stroke lesion, for preclinical small animal models.
Hepatic Arterial Therapy with Drug-Eluting Beads in the Management of Metastatic Bronchogenic Carcinoma to the Liver: A Multi-Institutional Registry
Authors: Fouad Heba , Metzger Tiffany , Tatum Cliff , Robbins Ken , Martin Robert C. G.
Published: February 2012

Introduction. There has been limited information reported on the use of hepatic arterial therapy in liver dominant hepatic metastases arising from lung cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of hepatic arterial therapy in the treatment of liver dominant hepatic metastases arising from lung cancer.Methods. Thirteen patients underwent a total of 30 treatment sessions with Drug-Eluting Beads. Eight of the thirteen received only doxorubicin DEB (17 of the total treatments), and four patients received Irinotecan DEB (7 of the total treatments).Results. The planned preprocedural dosage was a median of 75 mg (range 19–200), with total hepatic dose exposure being a median of 150 mg (range 0–458), with a technical success rate of 97% in all 29 treatments. There were 4 adverse events related to treatment, but no evidence of hepatic insufficiency. Overall 6-month and 12-month response rates were 50%. After a median followup of 24 months, the median overall survival in this cohort was 14 months (range 7–48 months).Conclusion. Drug-eluting beads loaded with doxorubicin (DEBDOX) or irinotecan (DEBIRI) can be safely and effectively used in treatment of patients with liver predominant metastatic disease from lung cancer.
On Geometry of Submanifolds of -Manifolds
Authors: Atceken Mehmet
Published: February 2012

We show geometrical properties of a submanifold of a -manifold. The properties of the induced structures on such a submanifold are also studied.
A Rare Case of Mucinous Adenocarcinoma of the Colon Presenting as Ileoileal Intussusception in an Adult
Authors: Chand Prakash , Patel Avani A. , Cervellione Kelly L. , Sulh Muhammed
Published: February 2012

Intussusception is the cause of around 1% of all bowel obstructions in adults. Unlike in children, where intussusception is most often idiopathic in nature, cases in adults usually have an identifiable etiology, most commonly malignancy. Symptoms are usually non-specific, but timely identification and management is crucial due to high rates of carcinoma as the lead point of intussusception. Here we present a rare case of mucinous adenocarcinoma of the colon that presented as ileoileal intussusception. Diagnostic and treatment issues are also discussed.
A Unique Case of Asystole Secondary to Facial Injury
Authors: Wartak Siddharth A. , Mehendale Reshma A. , Lotfi Amir
Published: February 2012

Bradycardia has been reported during intraoperative settings of craniofacial, cerebropontine angle and trigeminal ganglion surgeries (Schaller et al. (2009, 1999); Parbhakar et al. (2009); Koerbel et al. (2005); Roberts et al. (1999)). It is also commonly seen in children undergoing orbital and maxillary fractures repair. This mechanism has been described as the trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) (Schaller et al. (2009, 2004); Kim et al. (2000); Lang et al. (1991); Van Brocklin et al. (1982)). We report an unusual case of posttraumatic bradycardia and recurrent asystole in a previously healthy adult patient from possible TCR in the absence of any surgical intervention to the head and orbital area.
The Renoprotective Actions of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors Agonists in Diabetes
Authors: Thomas M. C. , Jandeleit-Dahm K. A. , Tikellis C.
Published: February 2012

Pharmaceutical agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are widely used in the management of type 2 diabetes, chiefly as lipid-lowering agents and oral hypoglycaemic agents. Although most of the focus has been placed on their cardiovascular effects, both positive and negative, these agents also have significant renoprotective actions in the diabetic kidney. Over and above action on metabolic control and effects on blood pressure, PPAR agonists also appear to have independent effects on a number of critical pathways that are implicated in the development and progression of diabetic kidney disease, including oxidative stress, inflammation, hypertrophy, and podocyte function. This review will examine these direct and indirect actions of PPAR agonists in the diabetic kidney and explore recent findings of clinical trials of PPAR agonists in patients with diabetes.
Association of Sleep Duration with Obesity among US High School Students
Authors: Lowry Richard , Eaton Danice K. , Foti Kathryn , McKnight-Eily Lela , Perry Geraldine , Galuska Deborah A.
Published: February 2012

Increasing attention is being focused on sleep duration as a potential modifiable risk factor associated with obesity in children and adolescents. We analyzed data from the national Youth Risk Behavior Survey to describe the association of obesity (self-report BMI ≥95th percentile) with self-reported sleep duration on an average school night, among a representative sample of US high school students. Using logistic regression to control for demographic and behavioral confounders, among female students, compared to 7 hours of sleep, both shortened (≤4 hours of sleep; adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval), AOR = 1.50 (1.05–2.15)) and prolonged (≥9 hours of sleep; AOR = 1.54 (1.13–2.10)) sleep durations were associated with increased likelihood of obesity. Among male students, there was no significant association between obesity and sleep duration. Better understanding of factors underlying the association between sleep duration and obesity is needed before recommending alteration of sleep time as a means of addressing the obesity epidemic among adolescents.
Cardiac Troponin T and Illness Severity in the Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infant
Authors: Lopes Danielle N. , Ramos José M. Moraes , Moreira Maria Elizabeth Lopes , Cabral Jofre A. , de Carvalho Manoel , Lopes José Maria de Andrade
Published: February 2012

Introduction. Respiratory distress are very common in Very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants and Myocardial injury may play a role in the disease outcome. Cardiac troponin T (cTnT) is the most useful marker of injury in adult population, but has not been extensively studied in this population.Aim. To study the role of cTnT in VLBW infants and its association with clinical outcomes.Methods. All VLBW infants admitted to our NICU were included in the study. Echocardiography and blood samples for cTnT determination were collected at 24 and 48 hours of life, and values >0.1 ng/mL were considered CTnT-positive values.Results. A total of 116 neonates had their blood samples collected. The median cTnT concentration within 24 hours was 0.191 (0.1–0.79) ng/mL and within 48 hours was 0.293 (0.1–1.0) ng/mL. A logistic regression analysis showed that PDA, low GA, and use of dopamine were independently associated with positive cTnT and abnormal Dopplerfluxometry and diuretics use had protective effects and was independently associated with troponin values.Conclusion. We observed a high prevalence of positivecTnT values in VLBW infants associated with illness severity. Our findings suggest that cTnT may be a useful and early marker of myocardial injury in VLBW infants.
Anti-Inflammatory Activities of a Chinese Herbal Formula IBS-20In VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Yang Zhonghan , Grinchuk Viktoriya , Ip Siu Po , Che Chun-Tao , Fong Harry H. S. , Lao Lixing , Wu Justin C. , Sung Joseph J. , Berman Brian , Shea-Donohue Terez , Zhao Aiping
Published: February 2012

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder and the etiology is not well understood. Currently there is no cure for IBS and no existing medication induces symptom relief in all patients. IBS-20 is a 20-herb Chinese medicinal formula that offers beneficial effects in patients with IBS; however, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. This study showed that IBS-20 potently inhibited LPS- or IFNΓ-stimulated expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as classically activated macrophage marker nitric oxide synthase 2. Similarly, IBS-20 or the component herbCoptis chinensisdecreased LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion from JAWS II dendritic cells. IBS-20 or the component herbs also blocked or attenuated the IFNΓ-induced drop in transepithelial electric resistance, an index of permeability, in fully differentiated Caco-2 monolayer. Finally, the up-regulation of key inflammatory cytokines in inflamed colon from TNBS-treated mice was suppressed significantly by orally administrated IBS-20, including IFNΓ and IL-12p40. These data indicate that the anti-inflammatory activities of IBS-20 may contribute to the beneficial effects of the herbal extract in patients with IBS, providing a potential mechanism of action for IBS-20. In addition, IBS-20 may be a potential therapeutic agent against other Th1-dominant gut pathologies such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Seamless Integration of RESTful Services into the Web of Data
Authors: Lanthaler Markus , Gütl Christian
Published: February 2012

We live in an era of ever-increasing abundance of data. To cope with the information overload we suffer from every single day, more sophisticated methods are required to access, manipulate, and analyze these humongous amounts of data. By embracing the heterogeneity, which is unavoidable at such a scale, and accepting the fact that the data quality and meaning are fuzzy, more adaptable, flexible, and extensible systems can be built. RESTful services combined with Semantic Web technologies could prove to be a viable path to achieve that. Their combination allows data integration on an unprecedented scale and solves some of the problems Web developers are continuously struggling with. This paper introduces a novel approach to create machine-readable descriptions for RESTful services as a first step towards this ambitious goal. It also shows how these descriptions along with an algorithm to translate SPARQL queries to HTTP requests can be used to integrate RESTful services into a global read-write Web of Data.
Influence of Dendritic Cells on B-Cell Responses during HIV Infection
Authors: Poudrier Johanne , Chagnon-Choquet Josiane , Roger Michel
Published: February 2012

Dendritic cells (DCs) modulate B-cell differentiation, activation, and survival mainly through production of growth factors such as B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS/BAFF). DC populations have been reported to be affected in number, phenotype and function during HIV infection and such alterations may contribute to the dysregulation of the B-cell compartment. Herein, we reflect on the potential impact of DC on the pathogenesis of HIV-related B cell disorders, and how DC status may modulate the outcome of mucosal B cell responses against HIV, which are pivotal to the control of disease. A concept that could be extrapolated to the overall outcome of HIV disease, whereby control versus progression may reside in the host’s capacity to maintain DC homeostasis at mucosal sites, where DC populations present an inherent capacity of modulating the balance between tolerance and protection, and are amongst the earliest cell types to be exposed to the virus.
A Combined Ion Implantation/Nanosecond Laser Irradiation Approach towards Si Nanostructures Doping
Authors: Ruffino F. , Romano L. , Carria E. , Miritello M. , Grimaldi M. G. , Privitera V. , Marabelli F.
Published: February 2012

The exploitation of Si nanostructures for electronic and optoelectronic devices depends on their electronic doping. We investigate a methodology for As doping of Si nanostructures taking advantages of ion beam implantation and nanosecond laser irradiation melting dynamics. We illustrate the behaviour of As when it is confined, by the implantation technique, in a SiO2/Si/SiO2multilayer and its spatial redistribution after annealing processes. As accumulation at the Si/SiO2interfaces was observed by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry in agreement with a model that assumes a traps distribution in the Si in the first 2-3 nm above the SiO2/Si interfaces. A concentration of 1014 traps/cm2has been evaluated. This result opens perspectives for As doping of Si nanoclusters embedded in SiO2since a Si nanocluster of radius 1 nm embedded in SiO2should trap 13 As atoms at the interface. In order to promote the As incorporation in the nanoclusters for an effective doping, an approach based on ion implantation and nanosecond laser irradiation was investigated. Si nanoclusters were produced in SiO2layer. After As ion implantation and nanosecond laser irradiation, spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements show nanoclusters optical properties consistent with their effective doping.
Synaptic Structure and Function in the Mouse Somatosensory Cortex during Chronic Pain:In VivoTwo-Photon Imaging
Authors: Kim Sun Kwang , Eto Kei , Nabekura Junichi
Published: February 2012

Recent advances in two-photon microscopy and fluorescence labeling techniques have enabled us to directly see the structural and functional changes in neurons and glia, and even at synapses, in the brain of living animals. Long-termin vivotwo-photon imaging studies have shown that some postsynaptic dendritic spines in the adult cortex are rapidly eliminated or newly generated, in response to altered sensory input or synaptic activity, resulting in experience/activity-dependent rewiring of neuronal circuits.In vivoCa2+imaging studies have revealed the distinct, input-specific response patterns of excitatory neurons in the brain. These updatedin vivoapproaches are just beginning to be used for the study of pathophysiological mechanisms of chronic diseases. In this paper, we introduce recentin vivotwo-photon imaging studies demonstrating how plastic changes in synaptic structure and function of the mouse somatosensory cortex, following peripheral injury, contribute to chronic pain conditions, like neuropathic and inflammatory pain.
Failure to Control Caries in an AIDS-Affected Individual: A Case Report
Authors: Nedwick-Castro Karen A. , Vieira Alexandre R.
Published: February 2012

Many patients today are living longer with certain health issues like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). These patients take numerous medications (HAART: highly active antiretroviral therapy) that cause xerostomia, which increases caries risk. There are particular challenges when treating HIV-positive patients with decreased immune systems, which can also accelerate the progression of periodontal disease. This paper discusses one such case that was followed from 2002 to 2010 at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where an HIV patient lost all his teeth despite investing thousands of dollars. It is also common sense that just performing restorations to decayed teeth is not enough to control the disease, but recommending a personalized preventive maintenance program to the patient is a must.
Distinct MicroRNA Subcellular Size and Expression Patterns in Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Beibei , Zhang Bo , Luo Huaxia , Yuan Jiao , Skogerbø Geir , Chen Runsheng
Published: February 2012

Introduction. Small noncoding RNAs have important regulatory functions in different cell pathways. It is believed that most of them mainly play role in gene post-transcriptional regulation in the cytoplasm. Recent evidence suggests miRNA and siRNA activity in the nucleus. Here, we show distinct genome-wide sub-cellular localization distribution profiles of small noncoding RNAs in human breast cancer cells.Methods. We separated breast cancer cell nuclei from cytoplasm, and identified small RNA sequences using a high-throughput sequencing platform. To determine the relationship between miRNA sub-cellular distribution and cancer progression, we used microarray analysis to examine the miRNA expression levels in nucleus and cytoplasm of three human cell lines, one normal breast cell line and two breast cancer cell lines. Logistic regression and SVM were used for further analysis.Results. The sub-cellular distribution of small noncoding RNAs shows that numerous miRNAs and their isoforms (isomiR) not only locate to the cytoplasm but also appeare in the nucleus. Subsequent microarray analyses indicated that the miRNA nuclear-cytoplasmic-ratio is a significant characteristic of different cancer cell lines.Conclusions. Our results indicate that the sub-cellular distribution is important for miRNA function, and that the characterization of the small RNAs sub-cellular localizome may contribute to cancer research and diagnosis.
Statistical Behavior of a Financial Model by Lattice Fractal Sierpinski Carpet Percolation
Authors: Wang Xu , Wang Jun
Published: February 2012

The lattice fractal Sierpinski carpet and the percolation theory are applied to develop a new random stock price for the financial market. Percolation theory is usually used to describe the behavior of connected clusters in a random graph, and Sierpinski carpet is an infinitely ramified fractal. In this paper, we consider percolation on the Sierpinski carpet lattice, and the corresponding financial price model is given and investigated. Then, we analyze the statistical behaviors of the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index and the simulative data derived from the financial model by comparison.
Bayesian Estimation of Generalized Process Capability Indices
Authors: Maiti Sudhansu S. , Saha Mahendra
Published: February 2012

Process capability indices (PCIs) aim to quantify the capability of a process of quality characteristic (X) to meet some specifications that are related to a measurable characteristic of its produced items. One such quality characteristic is life time of items. The specifications are determined through the lower specification limit (L), the upper specification limit (U), and the target value (T). Maiti et al. (2010) have proposed a generalized process capability index that is the ratio of proportion of specification conformance to proportion of desired conformance. Bayesian estimation of the index has been considered under squared error loss function. Normal, exponential (nonnormal), and Poisson (discrete) processes have been taken into account. Bayes estimates of the index have been compared with the frequentist counterparts. Data sets have been analyzed.
Homotopy Perturbation Method with an Auxiliary Term
Authors: He Ji-Huan
Published: February 2012

The two most important steps in application of the homotopy perturbation method are to construct a suitable homotopy equation and to choose a suitable initial guess. The homotopy equation should be such constructed that when the homotopy parameter is zero, it can approximately describe the solution property, and the initial solution can be chosen with an unknown parameter, which is determined after one or two iterations. This paper suggests an alternative approach to construction of the homotopy equation with an auxiliary term; Dufing equation is used as an example to illustrate the solution procedure.
The Incidence of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy after Photorefractive Keratectomy and Laser In Situ Keratomileusis
Authors: Moshirfar Majid , Hsu Maylon , Schulman Julia , Armenia Joseph , Sikder Shameema , Hartnett M. Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

Purpose. To assess the incidence of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) following laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).Methods. A chart review was performed to identify all patients with CSCR and a previous history of LASIK or PRK.Results. Over the 6-year study period, 1 of 4,876 eyes which had LASIK or PRK at the Moran Eye Center was diagnosed with CSCR. One other patient was referred from an outside center, developed CSCR symptoms one month after PRK. Both patients were managed conservatively with a final visual acuity of 20/20 or better. All other patients presented 4 or more years after refractive surgery.Conclusions. We report the first 2 CSCR cases developing within one month after PRK. The low incidence argues against a causal association. Topical corticosteroids or anxiety may elevate cortisol levels presenting therapeutic challenges for the management of CSCR after PRK or LASIK.
Impact of Waste Materials and Organic Amendments on Soil Properties and Vegetative Performance
Authors: McGeehan Steven L.
Published: February 2012

Waste materials, and materials derived from wastes, possess many characteristics that can improve soil fertility and enhance crop performance. These materials can be particularly useful as amendments to severely degraded soils associated with mining activities. This study evaluated biosolids, composts, log yard wastes, and two organic soil treatments for improved soil fertility and vegetative performance using side-by-side comparisons. Each plot was seeded with a standardized seed mix and evaluated for a series of soil chemical and physical parameters, total vegetation response, species diversity, ecological plant response, and invasion indices. All treatments were successful at improving soil fertility and promoting a self-sustaining vegetative cover. The level of available nitrogen had a strong impact on vegetative coverage, species distribution, and extent of unseeded vegetation. For example, high nitrogen treatments promoted a grass-dominated (low forb) plant community with a low content of unseeded vegetation. In contrast, low nitrogen treatments promoted a more balanced plant community with a mixture of grass and forb species and greater susceptibility to unseeded vegetation establishment.
Inactivation of Heat Shock Factor Hsf4 Induces Cellular Senescence and Suppresses Tumorigenesis In Vivo
Authors: Jin Xiongjie , Eroglu Binnur , Cho Wonkyoung , Yamaguchi Yukihiro , Moskophidis Demetrius , Mivechi Nahid F.
Published: February 2012

Studies suggest that Hsf4 expression correlates with its role in cell growth and differentiation. However, the role of Hsf4 in tumorigenesis in vivo remains unexplored. In this article, we provide evidence that absence of the Hsf4 gene suppresses evolution of spontaneous tumors arising in p53- or Arf-deficient mice. Furthermore, deletion of hsf4 alters the tumor spectrum by significantly inhibiting development of lymphomas that are normally observed in the majority of mice lacking p53 or Arf tumor suppressor genes. Using mouse embryo fibroblasts deficient in the hsf4 gene, we have found that these cells exhibit reduced proliferation that is associated with induction of senescence and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal). Cellular senescence in hsf4-deficient cells is associated with the increased expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, p21 and p27 proteins. Consistent with the cellular senescence observed in vitro, specific normal tissues of hsf4−/− mice and tumors that arose in mice deficient in both hsf4 and p53 genes exhibit increased SA-β-gal activity and elevated levels of p27 compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that hsf4 deletion-induced senescence is also present in vivo. Our results therefore indicate that Hsf4 is involved in modulation of cellular senescence, which can be exploited during cancer therapy. Mol Cancer Res; 10(4); 523–34. ©2012 AACR.
Prognostic Significance of Elevated Baseline Troponin in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes and Chronic Kidney Disease Treated With Different Antithrombotic Regimens
Authors: Acharji Subasit , Baber Usman , Mehran Roxana , Fahy Martin , Kirtane Ajay J. , Lansky Alexandra J. , Stone Gregg W.
Published: February 2012

Background—

Elevation of baseline cardiac troponin in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) confers an adverse prognosis. The prognostic value of troponin elevation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and ACS is less certain.

Methods and Results—

In the ACUITY (Acute Catheterization and Urgent Intervention Triage strategy) trial, 13 819 patients with moderate and high-risk ACS were assigned randomly to receive heparin plus a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (GPI), bivalirudin plus a GPI, or bivalirudin monotherapy. Among 2179 patients with CKD (creatinine clearance <60 mL/min), baseline troponin elevation was present in 1291 patients (59.2%). Major bleeding and major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including death, myocardial infarction (MI), or unplanned revascularization, were examined according to baseline troponin status and randomization arm. Patients with CKD in whom the baseline troponin level was elevated had significantly higher rates of death, MI, and MACE at 30 days and 1 year compared with CKD patients without elevated baseline troponin. By multivariable analysis, baseline troponin elevation in patients with CKD was an independent predictor of composite death or MI at 30 days (hazard ratio [95% CI]=2.05 [1.48, 2.83],
P
<0.0001) and 1 year (1.72 [1.36, 2.17],
P
<0.0001). In CKD patients with baseline troponin elevation, bivalirudin monotherapy compared with heparin plus a GPI significantly reduced the 30-day rates of major bleeding with nonsignificantly different rates of MACE at 30 days and 1 year.

Conclusions—

In patients with ACS and CKD, baseline troponin elevation is associated with significantly worse short- and long-term clinical outcomes. Bivalirudin monotherapy safely reduces major bleeding in ACS patients with CKD and baseline troponin elevation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00093158.
Nitric Oxide Production and Endothelium-Dependent Vasorelaxation Ameliorated by
N
1
-Methylnicotinamide in Human Blood Vessels
Authors: Domagala Teresa B. , Szeffler Agata , Dobrucki Lawrence W. , Dropinski Jerzy , Polanski Stanisław , Leszczynska-Wiloch Magdalena , Kotula-Horowitz Katarzyna , Wojciechowski Jacek , Wojnowski Leszek , Szczeklik Andrzej , Kalinowski Leszek
Published: February 2012

N
1
-methylnicotinamide (MNA
+
) has until recently been thought to be a biologically inactive product of nicotinamide metabolism in the pyridine nucleotides pathway. However, the latest observations imply that MNA
+
may exert antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory effects through direct action on the endothelium. We examined both in vivo and in vitro whether the compound might induce vasorelaxation in human blood vessels through the improvement of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and a reduction of oxidative stress mediated by endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) function. MNA
+
treatment (100 mg/m
2
orally) in healthy normocholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic subjects increased the l-arginine (l-NMMA)-inhibitable flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of brachial artery responses that also positively correlated with MNA
+
plasma concentrations (
r
=0.73 for normocholesterolemics and
r
=0.78 for hypercholesterolemics;
P
<0.0001). MNA
+
increased FMD at the same concentration range at which it enhanced NO release from cultured human endothelial cells after stimulation with either the receptor-dependent (acetylcholine) or the receptor-independent endothelial NO synthase agonists (calcium ionophore A23187). MNA
+
restored the endothelial NO synthase agonist-stimulated NO release after the exposure of the cells to oxidized low-density lipoprotein. This effect was also associated with the normalization of the [NO]/[superoxide] balance in the endothelial cells. Taken together, the increased NO bioavailability in the endothelium contributes to the vasorelaxating properties of MNA
+
. Targeting eNOS with MNA
+
might be therapeutically relevant for functional disorders of the endothelium, such as hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis.
Association of IREB2 and CHRNA3polymorphisms with airflow obstruction in severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Kim Woo Jin , Wood Alice M , Barker Alan F , Brantly Mark L , Campbell Edward J , Eden Edward , McElvaney Gerard , Rennard Stephen I , Sandhaus Robert A , Stocks James M , Stoller James K , Strange Charlie , Turino Gerard , Silverman Edwin K , Stockley Robert A , DeMeo Dawn L
Published: February 2012

Background

The development of COPD in subjects with alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is likely to be influenced by modifier genes. Genome-wide association studies and integrative genomics approaches in COPD have demonstrated significant associations with SNPs in the chromosome 15q region that includes CHRNA3 (cholinergic nicotine receptor alpha3) and IREB2 (iron regulatory binding protein 2).

We investigated whether SNPs in the chromosome 15q region would be modifiers for lung function and COPD in AAT deficiency.

Methods

The current analysis included 378 PIZZ subjects in the AAT Genetic Modifiers Study and a replication cohort of 458 subjects from the UK AAT Deficiency National Registry. Nine SNPs in LOC123688, CHRNA3 and IREB2 were selected for genotyping. FEV1 percent of predicted and FEV1/FVC ratio were analyzed as quantitative phenotypes. Family-based association analysis was performed in the AAT Genetic Modifiers Study. In the replication set, general linear models were used for quantitative phenotypes and logistic regression models were used for the presence/absence of emphysema or COPD.

Results

Three SNPs (rs2568494 in IREB2, rs8034191 in LOC123688, and rs1051730 in CHRNA3) were associated with pre-bronchodilator FEV1 percent of predicted in the AAT Genetic Modifiers Study. Two SNPs (rs2568494 and rs1051730) were associated with the post-bronchodilator FEV1 percent of predicted and pre-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio; SNP-by-gender interactions were observed. In the UK National Registry dataset, rs2568494 was significantly associated with emphysema in the male subgroup; significant SNP-by-smoking interactions were observed.

Conclusions

IREB2 and CHRNA3 are potential genetic modifiers of COPD phenotypes in individuals with severe AAT deficiency and may be sex-specific in their impact.
Correlation between magnifying narrow band imaging and histopathology in gastric protruding/or polypoid lesions: a pilot feasibility trial
Authors: Omori Takafumi , Kamiya Yoshio , Tahara Tomomitsu , Shibata Tomoyuki , Nakamura Masakatsu , Yonemura Joh , Okubo Masaaki , Yoshioka Daisuke , Ishizuka Takamitsu , Maruyama Naoko , Kamano Toshiaki , Fujita Hiroshi , Nakagawa Yoshihito , Nagasaka Mitsuo , Iwata Masami , Arisawa Tomiyasu , Hirata Ichiro
Published: February 2012

Background

Several study showed usefulness of microscopic capillaries, seen by magnifying narrow band imaging (NBI) endoscopy for predicting histopathology among superficial depressed or flat elevated gastric neoplasia (GN). Here we assessed the diagnostic efficacy of magnifying NBI for predicting histopathology among gastric protruding/or polypoid lesions.

Methods

Using endoscopic pictures of magnifying NBI from 95 protruding/or polypoid lesions (19 fundic gland polyps: FGP, 47 hyperplastic polyps: HP, and 29 GN), fine mucosal patterns were classified into four categories: small round, prolonged, villous or ridge, and unclear patterns, and micro vascular patterns were classified into five categories: honey comb, dense vascular, fine net work, core vascular, and unclear patterns.

Results

Most suggestive micro vascular patterns for predicting FGP, and HP were honeycomb (sensitivity 94.7%, specificity 97.4%), and dense vascular patterns (sensitivity 93.6%, specificity 91.6%), respectively. Fine net work, core vascular, and unclear patterns presented higher specificity (97%, 100%, and 100%) for predicting GN, and diagnostic efficacy of combined of those patterns was favorable (sensitivity 86.2%, specificity 97.0%).

Conclusion

Micro vascular patterns by using magnifying NBI provides meaningful information for predicting the histopathology of gastric protruding/or polypoid lesions.
Air pollution exposure estimation using dispersion modelling and continuous monitoring data in a prospective birth cohort study in the Netherlands
Authors: Van den Hooven Edith H , Pierik Frank H , Van Ratingen Sjoerd W , Zandveld Peter YJ , Meijer Ernst W , Hofman Albert , Miedema Henk ME , Jaddoe Vincent WV , De Kluizenaar Yvonne
Published: February 2012

Previous studies suggest that pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution. A prospective cohort study in pregnant women and their children enables identification of the specific effects and critical periods. This paper describes the design of air pollution exposure assessment for participants of the Generation R Study, a population-based prospective cohort study from early pregnancy onwards in 9778 women in the Netherlands. Individual exposures to PM10 and NO2 levels at the home address were estimated for mothers and children, using a combination of advanced dispersion modelling and continuous monitoring data, taking into account the spatial and temporal variation in air pollution concentrations. Full residential history was considered. We observed substantial spatial and temporal variation in air pollution exposure levels. The Generation R Study provides unique possibilities to examine effects of short- and long-term air pollution exposure on various maternal and childhood outcomes and to identify potential critical windows of exposure.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Children Treated for High-Grade Gliomas: Children's Oncology Group L991 Final Study Report
Authors: Sands Stephen Alan , Zhou Tianni , O'Neil Sharon Helene , Patel Sunita K. , Allen Jeffrey , McGuire Cullen Patsy , Kaleita Thomas A. , Noll Robert , Sklar Charles , Finlay Jonathan Lester
Published: February 2012

Purpose

High-grade gliomas of the CNS are characterized by poor treatment response and prognosis for long-term survival. The Children's Oncology Group (COG) L991 study investigated the neuropsychological, behavioral, and quality of life (QoL) outcomes after treatment on the Children's Cancer Group (CCG) trial for high-grade gliomas (CCG-945).

Patients and Methods

Fifty-four patients (29 males, 25 females) with a median age of 8.8 years at diagnosis (range, 0.2 to 19.5 years) were enrolled at 25 institutions in North America, representing 81% of available survivors; median length of follow-up was 15.1 years (range, 9.5 to 19.2 years), and median age at study evaluation was 23.6 years (range, 11.3 to 36 years). Standardized tests of neuropsychological functioning and QoL were performed. Descriptive statistics summarized principal findings, and one-way analysis of variance identified potential predictors of outcomes.

Results

With an average follow-up time of 15 years, survivors demonstrated intellectual functioning within the low-average range. Executive functioning and verbal memory were between the low-average and borderline ranges. In contrast, visual memory and psychomotor processing speed were between the borderline and impaired ranges, respectively. Approximately 75% of patient reported overall QoL within or above normal limits for both physical and psychosocial domains. Nonhemispheric tumor location (midline or cerebellum), female sex, and younger age at treatment emerged as independent risk factors.

Conclusion

These results serve as a benchmark for comparison with future pediatric high-grade glioma studies, in addition to identifying at-risk cohorts that warrant further research and proactive interventions to minimize late effects while striving to ensure survival.
Expression of Tumor-Derived Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Its Receptors Is Associated With Outcome in Early Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Pajares María J. , Agorreta Jackeline , Larrayoz Marta , Vesin Aurélien , Ezponda Teresa , Zudaire Isabel , Torre Wenceslao , Lozano María D. , Brambilla Elisabeth , Brambilla Christian , Wistuba Ignacio I. , Behrens Carmen , Timsit Jean-Francois , Pio Ruben , Field John K. , Montuenga Luis M.
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Antiangiogenic therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathway have yielded more modest clinical benefit to patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) than initially expected. Clinical data suggest a distinct biologic role of the VEGF pathway in the different histologic subtypes of lung cancer. To clarify the influence of histologic differentiation in the prognostic relevance of VEGF-mediated signaling in NSCLC, we performed a concomitant analysis of the expression of three key elements of the VEGF pathway in the earliest stages of the following two principal histologic subtypes: squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and adenocarcinoma (ADC).

Patients and Methods

We evaluated tumor cell expression of VEGF, VEGF receptor (VEGFR) 1, and VEGFR2 using automatic immunostaining in a series of 298 patients with early-stage NSCLC recruited as part of the multicenter European Early Lung Cancer Detection Group project. A score measuring the VEGF signaling pathway was calculated by adding the tumor cell expression value of VEGF and its two receptors. The results were validated in two additional independent cohorts of patients with NSCLC.

Results

The combination of high VEGF, VEGFR1, and VEGFR2 protein expression was associated with lower risk of disease progression in early SCC (univariate analysis, P = .008; multivariate analysis, hazard ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.92; P = .02). The results were validated in two independent patient cohorts, confirming the favorable prognostic value of high VEGF signaling score in early lung SCC.

Conclusion

Our results clearly indicate that the combination of high expression of the three key elements in the VEGF pathway is associated with a good prognosis in patients with early SCC but not in patients with ADC.