bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrin αXβ2 Is a Leukocyte Receptor forCandida albicansand Is Essential for Protection against Fungal Infections
Authors: Jawhara Samir , Pluskota Elzbieta , Verbovetskiy Dmitriy , Skomorovska-Prokvolit Olena , Plow Edward F. , Soloviev Dmitry A.
Published: July 2012

The opportunistic fungus Candida albicans is one of the leading causes of infections in immunocompromised patients, and innate immunity provides a principal mechanism for protection from the pathogen. In the present work, the role of integrin αXβ2 in the pathogenesis of fungal infection was assessed. Both purified αXβ2 and αXβ2-expressing human epithelial kidney 293 cells recognized and bound to the fungal hyphae of SC5314 strain of C. albicans but not to the yeast form or to hyphae of a strain deficient in the fungal mannoprotein, Pra1. The binding of the integrin to the fungus was inhibited by β-glucans but not by mannans, implicating a lectin-like activity in recognition but distinct in specificity from that of αMβ2. Mice deficient in αXβ2 were more prone to systemic infection with the LD50 fungal inoculum decreasing 3-fold in αXβ2-deficient mice compared with wild-type mice. After challenging i.v. with 1.5 × 104 cell/g, 60% of control C57BL/6 mice died within 14 d compared with 100% mortality of αXβ2-deficient mice within 9 d. Organs taken from αXβ2-deficient mice 16 h postinfection revealed a 10-fold increase in fungal invasion into the brain and a 2-fold increase into the liver. These data indicate that αXβ2 is important for protection against systemic C. albicans infections and macrophage subsets in the liver, Kupffer cells, and in the brain, microglial cells use αXβ2 to control fungal invasion.
Clinical Course of Acute Canine Polyradiculoneuritis Following Treatment with Human IV Immunoglobulin
Authors: Hirschvogel Katrin , Jurina Konrad , Steinberg Tanja A. , Matiasek Lara A. , Matiasek Kaspar , Beltrán Elsa , Fischer Andrea
Published: July 2012

Treatment of dogs with acute canine polyradiculoneuritis (ACP) is restricted to physical rehabilitation and supportive care. In humans with Guillain-Barré syndrome, the counterpart of ACP, randomized trials show that IV immunoglobulin (IVIg) speeds recovery. The authors of the current study hypothesized that dogs with ACP would tolerate IVIg well and recover faster than dogs managed with supportive treatment only. Sixteen client-owned dogs with ACP were treated with IVIg, and 14 client-owned dogs served as a retrospective control group. Diagnosis was confirmed using clinical features, electrodiagnostics, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and muscle/nerve biopsies. The duration of the initial progressive phase, the time from IVIg administration until the dogs were ambulating without assistance, and the duration of the complete episode were evaluated. Adverse reactions (anaphylaxis, mild hematuria) were observed in two dogs. Dogs treated with IVIg were ambulating without assistance after a median of 27.5 days (range, 15–127 days) from onset of clinical signs. The control group was ambulatory without assistance at a median of 75.5 days (range, 5–220 days). Even though this result is not statistically significant, there is a clear trend toward faster recovery in dogs treated with IVIg.
Bilateral Segmental Aplasia with Unilateral Uterine Horn Torsion in a Pomeranian Bitch
Authors: Nakamura Kensuke , Yamasaki Masahiro , Osaki Tomohiro , Ohta Hiroshi , Sasaki Noboru , Aoshima Keisuke , Kimura Takashi , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi
Published: July 2012

Bilateral segmental aplasia of the uterine horns with unilateral pyometra and uterine horn torsion were diagnosed in a Pomeranian bitch that presented with chronic abdominal distension and an acute onset of anorexia and lethargy. Because radiographic and ultrasonographic findings revealed the presence of markedly enlarged bilateral uterine horns filled with fluid in the caudal abdomen, a tentative diagnosis of either pyometra or hydrometra with uterine horn torsion was made. Exploratory laparotomy showed bilateral, segmentally distended uterine horns with unilateral uterine horn torsion. Ovariohysterectomy was performed, and bilateral segmental aplasia of the uterine horns with the development of unilateral uterine horn torsion was diagnosed histopathologically. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of uterine horn torsion in conjunction with segmental aplasia of the uterine horn in a bitch.
MRI Findings of a Middle Ear Cholesteatoma in a Dog
Authors: Harran Nathaniel X. , Bradley Kate J. , Hetzel Natasha , Bowlt Kelly L. , Day Michael J. , Barr Frances
Published: July 2012

This article describes the MRI features of a middle ear cholesteatoma in an 8 yr old flat-coated retriever. Physical examination revealed pain on opening the jaw, and otoscopic examination showed tympanic membrane rupture associated with hyperplastic tissue at the entrance of the middle ear. Standard MRI sequences allowed for the identification of a severely expanded bulla containing material that was isointense to brain tissue on T1-weighted images and of mixed intensity on T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequences. No postcontrast enhancement of the content was present, but the lining of the bulla was partially enhanced. The images allowed evaluation of the surgical margins and the secondary changes due to the expansion of the mass. Surgery was performed and histopathology confirmed the presumptive diagnosis of cholesteatoma. In the present case, MRI appeared to serve as a good alternative to computed tomography for the diagnosis of cholesteatoma.
49-Month Survival Following Caval Venectomy Without Nephrectomy in a Dog with a Pheochromocytoma
Authors: Guillaumot Pierre J. , Heripret Dominique , Bouvy Bernard M. , Christiaens Gilbert , Poujade Agnes , Delverdier Maxence , Poncet Cyrill
Published: July 2012

An 11 yr old spayed female Labrador retriever was diagnosed with a right adrenal tumor. At surgery, adhesions to the right kidney were dissected, allowing the right kidney to be preserved. The tumor showed extensive invasion into the suprarenal vena cava. It was felt that thrombus removal via venotomy could not be performed. Instead, the vena cava was ligated caudal to the liver and cranial to the right renal vein. The neoplastic gland was then excised en bloc together with the portion of the invaded caudal vena cava. Hind limb edema had developed preoperatively and increased transiently in the first days postoperatively. The animal was discharged 6 days postoperatively with no other clinical disorders, and hind limb edema resolved over time. Histopathology identified a pheochromocytoma. The dog died 49 mo later. A neoplastic thrombus of the vena cava may require venotomy to allow thrombus removal. Occasionally, removal of the thrombus by venotomy may prove impossible. In such a situation, en bloc removal of the concerned portion of the vena cava may be performed with a good long-term outcome provided that gradual occlusion of the vena cava by the thrombus has allowed time for collateral circulation to develop.
Corynebacterium spp. in Dogs and Cats with Otitis Externa and/or Media: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Henneveld Kerstin , Rosychuk Rodney A.W. , Olea-Popelka Francisco J. , Hyatt Doreene R. , Zabel Sonja
Published: July 2012

The role of Corynebacterium spp. in the pathogenesis of canine and feline otitis externa/media and their appropriate antimicrobial therapy are unclear. The objectives of this study were to (1) better establish the pathogenicity of Corynebacterium spp. in otitis utilizing reported criteria and by assessing clinical response to antibiotic therapy and (2) to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Corynebacterium spp. associated with otitis. The study was retrospective, targeting cultures positive for Corynebacterium spp. Corynebacterium spp. were part of mixed microbial populations in 79/81 cultures. Corynebacterium spp. pathogenicity was highly questionable because of their almost invariable presence with other microbes and the observation that Corynebacterium spp. usually disappear from the ear with resolution of other infections, even when the Corynebacterium spp. are resistant to the prescribed antibiotic(s). However, 2/81 cultures came from two canine ears wherein Corynebacterium spp. may have been pathogenic. Antimicrobial sensitivities for Corynebacterium spp. were available for 54 isolates. Most isolates were susceptible to chloramphenicol (53/54), amikacin (50/54), tetracycline (50/54), gentamicin (46/54), and enrofloxacin (32/54). Among those antibiotics available in otic products, gentamicin and enrofloxacin would be rational choices for the empirical, topical therapy of Corynebacterium spp.
Comparison of Epidural and Systemic Tramadol for Analgesia Following Ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Mastrocinque Sandra , Almeida Tatiana F. , Tatarunas Angélica C. , Imagawa Viviani H. , Otsuki Denise A. , Matera Julia M. , Fantoni Denise T.
Published: July 2012

The objective of the study was to compare epidural and systemic tramadol for postoperative analgesia in bitches undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Twenty animals, randomly divided into two groups, received either epidural (EPI) or intramuscular (IM) tramadol (2 mg/kg) 30 min before anesthetic induction. Analgesia, sedation, cardiorespiratory parameters, end-tidal isoflurane, blood catecholamines and cortisol, and arterial blood gases were measured at different time points up to 24 hr after agent administration. There were no differences between the two groups regarding cardiorespiratory parameters, end-tidal isoflurane, and pain scores. Two dogs in the IM and one in the EPI group required supplemental analgesia. Cortisol was increased (P<0.05) at 120 min (3.59 μg/dL and 3.27μg/dL in the IM and EPI groups, respectively) and 240 min (2.45 μg/dL and 2.54μg/dL in the IM and EPI groups, respectively) compared to baseline. Norepinephrine was also increased (P<0.05) at 120 min in both groups compared to baseline values. Epinephrine values were higher (P<0.05) in the IM group compared with the EPI group at 50 min, 120 min, and 1,440 min after tramadol administration. Epidural tramadol is a safe analgesic, but does not appear to have improved analgesic effects compared with IM administration.
Understanding and Evaluating Veterinary Clinical Research
Authors: Buhles William , Kass Philip H.
Published: July 2012

Results from investigations conducted in clinical settings contribute greatly to determining how veterinarians practice medicine. It is important for the practitioner to understand how clinical information is collected, analyzed, and communicated in journals and presentations at conferences. Clinical research is either retrospective in observational studies, looking at historical medical records as the source of data, or prospective in both experimental and observational studies, where the study is designed before any patients are included. Prospective, experimental studies provide the more reliable results, although they form a minority of published reports. Randomized, controlled trials are the most reliable format, and attempts should be made to use this design more often in veterinary medicine. Care must be taken in the conduct of clinical research to reduce sources of bias that can yield false findings, particularly in small, retrospective studies. Statistical analysis is the key to data interpretation, but must be applied appropriately to avoid either wrong assumptions or misconception. Regardless of how studies are conducted, it is important for the practitioner to be an astute reader of the clinical literature. An understanding of clinical research methods will result in better medical standard of care recommendations and practice.
Quick and Simple Evaluation of Sudomotor Function for Screening of Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Yajnik Chittaranjan S. , Kantikar Vaishali V. , Pande Amol J. , Deslypere Jean P.
Published: July 2012

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare SUDOSCAN, a new device to evaluate sweat function (reflecting peripheral small C-fiber status), with conventional measures of peripheral and cardiac neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods. 265 diabetic patients were tested for symptoms and clinical signs of neuropathy using Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI), vibration perception threshold (VPT) using biothesiometer, and cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) using Ewing’s protocol. Sudomotor function was investigated with SUDOSCAN through measurement of electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) of hands and feet. Lower ESC is suggestive of sudomotor dysfunction. Results. Lower ESC at feet was significantly associated both with increasing symptoms (MNSI A) and increasing score on physical abnormalities (MNSI B). Lower ESC at feet was also significantly associated with increasing VPT by biothesiometry (P<0.01), and with higher number of abnormal CAN results (P<0.05). ESC was associated with postural fall in blood pressure (sympathetic abnormality) (P<0.05), but not with heart rate variability (HRV) tests (parasympathetic abnormalities). Conclusions. Sudomotor dysfunction testing may be a simple test to alert physicians to peripheral nerve and cardiac sympathetic dysfunction. Ease of performance could make it useful in a busy diabetic clinic. Further studies with hard clinical outcomes are indicated.
Microemulsion Drug Delivery System: For Bioavailability Enhancement of Ampelopsin
Authors: Solanki Shailendra Singh , Sarkar Brajesh , Dhanwani Rakesh Kumar
Published: July 2012

Ampelopsin, one of the most common flavonoids, reported to possess numerous pharmacological activities and shows poor aqueous solubility. The purpose of this study was to enhance the dissolution rate and bioavailability of this drug by developing a novel delivery system that is microemulsion (ME) and to study the effect of microemulsion (ME) on the oral bioavailability of ampelopsin. Capmul MCM-based ME formulation with Cremophor EL as surfactant and Transcutol as cosurfactant was developed for oral delivery of ampelopsin. Optimised ME was evaluated for its transparency, viscosity, percentage assay and so forth. Solubilisation capacity of the ME system was also determined. The prepared ME was compared with the pure drug solution and commercially available tablet for in vitro drug release. The optimised ME formulation containing ampelopsin, Capmul MCM (5.5%), Cremophor EL (25%), Transcutol P (8.5%), and distilled water showed higher in vitro drug release, as compared to plain drug suspension and the suspension of commercially available tablet. These results demonstrate the potential use of ME for improving the bioavailability of poor water soluble compounds, such as ampelopsin.
Design Considerations for Dispersion Control with a Compact Bonded Grism Stretcher for Broadband Pulse Amplification
Authors: Kiriyama H. , Sasao H. , Sugiyama A. , Ertel K.
Published: July 2012

We report on the design of a compact grism-pair stretcher for a near-infrared noncollinear optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification (OPCPA) system. The grisms are produced by bonding a grating to a prism using a resin. The stretcher is capable of controlling a bandwidth of over 300 nm, which is suitable for parametric amplification of few-cycle pulses. After amplification, pulses can be compressed by the dispersion of optical glass, and the residual group-delay can be compensated with an acousto-optic programmable dispersive filter (AOPDF).
Physiological Responses of Wild and Cultivated Barley to the Interactive Effect of Salinity and Iron Deficiency
Authors: Yousfi Sabeh , Houmani Hayet , Zribi Fethia , Abdelly Chedly , Gharsalli Mohamed
Published: July 2012

Literature on the separate effects of salinity and inadequate Fe supply on plant growth and nutrient uptake, concentration, and distribution is abundant but little is known about the interactive effects of these two abiotic constraints. Here, we investigated the interactive effect of iron availability and salinity on physiological responses of cultivated and wild barley (Hordeum vulgare and H. maritimum resp.). Seedlings of both species were grown for 9 days, under complete nutrient solution with or without iron supply. Then, NaCl treatment was applied at different concentrations (0, 100, 200, and 300 mM) for 60 hours. After salt exposure, shoot water content of H. vulgare was significantly reduced as compared to H. maritimum. Furthermore, Na+ accumulation in shoots increased parallel to increasing NaCl concentration in the medium. However, the increase was significantly higher in H. vulgare than in H. maritimum. These responses were associated with lower Fe absorption efficiency photosynthetic parameters in both species. The reduction was significantly higher in cultivated than in wild barley. Moreover, phytosiderophore exudation was enhanced in both species by direct (iron free medium) or indirect iron limitation (salt-induced iron limitation). Such a stimulation of phytosiderophore release was genotype and salt level dependant.
Snail Protein Expression as a Hallmark of Gastric Carcinoma in Biopsy Samples
Authors: Tanishima Hiroyuki , Gui Ting , Sun Yujing , Shimokado Aiko , Ozaki Takashi , Muragaki Yasuteru
Published: July 2012

Overexpression of the Snail gene transcriptional repressor promotes an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in epithelial tumor cell lines. In this study, we aimed to determine the correlation between Snail protein expression and clinicopathological features and to test whether Snail can be used as a marker to distinguish gastric carcinomas from benign tissues in biopsy samples. The results of immunohistochemistry with an antibody against Snail showed that most adenocarcinomas had positive Snail expression, whereas weak Snail expression was detected in a small number of gastritis and gastric adenomas. Snail-positive cells were detected in the stroma as well as in the glandular epithelium in some adenocarcinomas. In addition to Snail immunostaining, immunostaining of the EMT-related molecules, E-cadherin and vimentin, was performed. E-cadherin was not detected in adenocarcinomas that expressed Snail, whereas gastritis and adenomas stained positively for E-cadherin. Vimentin expression was seen in adenocarcinomas with positive Snail expression, whereas gastritis and adenomas did not express vimentin. In conclusion, we propose that Snail is a useful biomarker to distinguish gastric adenocarcinomas from benign lesions in biopsy samples.
Magnetohydrodynamics and Radiation Effects on Unsteady Convection Flow of Micropolar Fluid Past a Vertical Porous Plate with Variable Wall Heat Flux
Authors: Reddy M. Gnaneswara
Published: July 2012

An analysis is presented for the problem of the unsteady two-dimensional laminar flow of a viscous incompressible micropolar fluid past a vertical porous plate in the presence of a transverse magnetic field and thermal radiation with variable heat flux. The free stream velocity follows an exponentially increasing or decreasing small perturbation law. A uniform magnetic field acts perpendicularly to the porous surface in which it absorbs the micropolar fluid with a suction velocity varying with time. The Rosseland approximation is used to describe radiative heat transfer in the limit of optically thick fluids. The effects of flow parameters and thermophysical properties on the flow temperature fields across the boundary layer are investigated. The method of solution can be applied for small perturbation approximation. Numerical results of velocity profiles of micropolar fluids are compared with the corresponding flow problems for a Newtonian fluid. Also, the results of the skin-friction coefficient and the couple stress coefficient at the wall are prepared with various values of the fluid properties.
Effects of History and Culture on Attitudes toward Special Education: A Comparison of Finland and Norway
Authors: Takala Marjatta , Hausstätter Rune Sarromaa
Published: July 2012

This paper discusses the role of special education in Finland and Norway. There are major differences in how special education is understood in these countries. The different perspective that Finland and Norway have on the concept of inclusion is also striking. The PISA test results show that the Finnish school is performing well, partly because of flexible part-time special education; the early intervention strategy also plays a role in this success. These aspects are making Finnish schools inclusive; support is offered immediately when it is needed without any bureaucratic process. An effective teacher education program is also a key element in creating a successful school system. Norway’s relatively weak educational results could mean that despite their strong focus on inclusion, Norwegian schools are not inclusive. The quality of special education is debated. If it is true that special education is helping to create success in schools, then clearly there is a need to discover more about the different systems and what factors may influence that success.
Despite the close geographical and political relationship between Norway and Finland, there exists clear differences in the educational area.
Comparison of the Serological Reactivity of Lipopolysaccharides from Japanese and Western Strains of Helicobacter pylori to Sera from H. pylori-Positive Humans
Authors: Amano Ken-ichi , Yokota Shin-ichi , Monteiro Mario A.
Published: July 2012

We compared the serological reactivity of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) isolated from Japanese and Western strains of Helicobacter pylori against anti-Lewis antigen monoclonal antibodies and H. pylori-positive Japanese sera. The two LPS from Western strains (26695 and O:2) did not react with any sera from Japanese patients, while all LPS from Japanese strains and the Sydney strain reacted with these sera. We propose that LPS of all Japanese smooth strains share either one of two epitopes, which are termed highly antigenic and weakly antigenic epitopes, present in the O-polysaccharide portion, and these epitopes are independent the Lewis antigens. The present findings indicated that the two Western strains lacked the two epitopes, which are shared by all Japanese strains.
FEA Practical Illustration of Mesh-Quality-Results Differences between Structured Mesh and Unstructured Mesh
Authors: Javidinejad Amir
Published: July 2012

A reliable design via FEA techniques is highly dependent on the execution of an analysis which is accurate and represents the design precisely. The accuracy and efficiency of the two available methods of meshing of the design components (mapped and free meshing) for finite element analysis are addressed in this paper. This paper intends to clarify that the “shape” of the elements rather than the “pattern” is the distinguishing factor for accuracy of the mesh-quality-results. This paper concludes by comparison of the FEA analysis to the analytical theory that element integrity and results are not governed by the elemental aspect ratio alone. The mesh density has a greater effect. Four types of mesh are investigated and compared for results' accuracy. In specific, a low-density free mesh, a high-density free mesh, a mapped mesh with high aspect ratio, and a mapped mesh with low aspect ratio of a plate with center hole are examined and compared. A plate with center hole is selected for this purpose since its far-field structural behavior is predictable and is highly applicable in showing the differences in accuracy among the different meshing methods.
Early Detection of Maternal Risk for Preeclampsia
Authors: Mikat B. , Gellhaus A. , Wagner N. , Birdir C. , Kimmig R. , Köninger A.
Published: July 2012

Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. New molecular insights offer new possibilities of early diagnosis of elevated maternal risk. Maternal risk factors, biophysical parameters like Doppler examination of the uterine arteries and biochemical parameters allow early risk calculation. Preventive and effective therapeutic agents like acetylsalicylacid can be started in the early second trimester. This article reviews the diagnostic possibilities of early risk calculation to detect women having high risk for preeclampsia and the potential benefits for them, the offspring and health care systems. We provide risk calculation for preeclampsia as an important and sensible part of first trimester screening.
Lipid Droplet Binding of Hepatitis C Virus Core Protein Genotype 3
Authors: Qiang Guan , Jhaveri Ravi
Published: July 2012

Background. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 3 is known to cause steatosis (fatty liver) that is more frequent and severe than other genotypes. We previously identified sequence elements within genotype 3 HCV Core domain 3 that were sufficient for lipid accumulation. Aims. We examined various genotype 3 Core domains for lipid droplet localization and compared the lipid droplet binding regions of domain 2 with a genotype 1 isolate. Methods. We generated HCV Core domain constructs fused with green fluorescent protein and performed immunofluorescence to visualize lipid droplets. Results. Constructs containing HCV Core domain 2 are appropriately localized to lipid droplets with varying degrees of efficiency. When compared to genotype 1, there are polymorphisms within domain 2 that do not appear to alter lipid droplet localization. Conclusions. In summary, the differences in a steatosis-associated HCV Core genotype 3 isolate do not appear to involve altered lipid droplet localization.
Helicobacter pyloriEradication Therapy: Current Availabilities
Authors: Gasparetto M. , Pescarin M. , Guariso G.
Published: July 2012

Background. ThoughHelicobacter pylori(HP) infections have progressively declined throughout most of the industrialized countries, a gradual increase in failure of HP eradication treatments is observed.Aim. To critically review evidence on the efficacy of the therapeutic availabilities for HP eradication, as yet.Methods. A selection of Clinical Trials, Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses within the time period 2010–2012, was performed through a Medline search. Previous references were included when basically supporting the first selection.Results. An increasing rise in HP resistance rates for antimicrobial agents is currently observed. Further causes of HP treatment failure include polymorphisms of the CYP 2C19, an increased body mass index (BMI), smoking, poor compliance and re-infections. Alternative recent approaches to standard triple therapy have been attempted to increase the eradication rate, including bismuth-containing quadruple therapy, non-bismuth containing quadruple therapy, sequential therapy and levofloxacin-containing regimens.Conclusions. The main current aims should be the maintenance of a high eradication rate (>85%) of HP and the prevention of any increase in antimicrobial resistance. In the next future, the perspective of a tailored therapy could optimize eradication regimens within the different countries.
Drug Solubility: Importance and Enhancement Techniques
Authors: Savjani Ketan T. , Gajjar Anuradha K. , Savjani Jignasa K.
Published: July 2012

Solubility, the phenomenon of dissolution of solute in solvent to give a homogenous system, is one of the important parameters to achieve desired concentration of drug in systemic circulation for desired (anticipated) pharmacological response. Low aqueous solubility is the major problem encountered with formulation development of new chemical entities as well as for the generic development. More than 40% NCEs (new chemical entities) developed in pharmaceutical industry are practically insoluble in water. Solubility is a major challenge for formulation scientist. Any drug to be absorbed must be present in the form of solution at the site of absorption. Various techniques are used for the enhancement of the solubility of poorly soluble drugs which include physical and chemical modifications of drug and other methods like particle size reduction, crystal engineering, salt formation, solid dispersion, use of surfactant, complexation, and so forth. Selection of solubility improving method depends on drug property, site of absorption, and required dosage form characteristics.
A Study of Solar Desalination Still Combined with Air-Conditioning System
Authors: Abdel-Rehim Z. S. , Lashine A.
Published: July 2012

A study of solar desalination still combined with air-conditioning system is presented in this work. Combining the solar still with the air-conditioning system can increase the condensate output from the solar still while meeting the cooling load needs. The operation of the combined solar distillation and air-conditioning system, that utilized the heat rejected by the condenser and the heat sink of the evaporator, has been tested to obtain the distillate output from the solar still during the air-conditioning of a space application. Experimental work of the present system is carried out in June 2009 (summer month), in Cairo, Egypt. The present problem is tested to use the integrated system operation for already utilizing air-conditioning energy consumption; that is, meeting the hourly air-conditioning load and the daily fresh water production. The system is tested for day and nighttimes of operation of the combined system for the summer month: June 2009, Cairo, Egypt. Economic study evaluation is presented. The results show that the maximum fresh water productivity through June is 29 Liters in daytime of June 5 2009 and 37 liters in nighttime (nocturnal time) of June 3 2009. The present system more efficient in day time (8:00 AM–8:00 PM) and night time (8:00 PM–8:00 AM). Therefore, the maximum efficiency is recorded 40% for the present system in daytime, 36% in nighttime, and 25% for conventional solar still. COP increases with inside temperature (Ti), however it decreases with outside temperature (Tamb). The average cost of one liter of distillate water from the present combined system = 0.021441 (LE).
Cotransduction with MGMT and Ubiquitous or Erythroid-Specific GFP Lentiviruses Allows Enrichment of Dual-Positive Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells In Vivo
Authors: Roth Justin C. , Ismail Mourad , Reese Jane S. , Lingas Karen T. , Ferrari Giuliana , Gerson Stanton L.
Published: July 2012

The P140K point mutant of MGMT allows robust hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) enrichment in vivo. Thus, dual-gene vectors that couple MGMT and therapeutic gene expression have allowed enrichment of gene-corrected HSCs in animal models. However, expression levels from dual-gene vectors are often reduced for one or both genes. Further, it may be desirable to express selection and therapeutic genes at distinct stages of cell differentiation. In this regard, we evaluated whether hematopoietic cells could be efficiently cotransduced using low MOIs of two separate single-gene lentiviruses, including MGMT for dual-positive cell enrichment. Cotransduction efficiencies were evaluated using a range of MGMT : GFP virus ratios, MOIs, and selection stringencies in vitro. Cotransduction was optimal when equal proportions of each virus were used, but low MGMT : GFP virus ratios resulted in the highest proportion of dual-positive cells after selection. This strategy was then evaluated in murine models for in vivo selection of HSCs cotransduced with a ubiquitous MGMT expression vector and an erythroid-specific GFP vector. Although the MGMT and GFP expression percentages were variable among engrafted recipients, drug selection enriched MGMT-positive leukocyte and GFP-positive erythroid cell populations. These data demonstrate cotransduction as a mean to rapidly enrich and evaluate therapeutic lentivectors in vivo.
Assessment of Some Inflammatory Biomarkers as Predictors of Outcome of Acute Respiratory Failure on Top of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Evaluation of the Role of Bacteria
Authors: Shafiek Hanaa Ahmed , Abd-Elwahab Nashwa Hassan , Baddour Manal Mohammad , El-Hoffy Mohamed Mabrouk , Degady Akram Abd-Elmoneim , Khalil Yehia Mohamed
Published: July 2012

Objective. To study the value of the inflammatory markers (interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and C-reactive protein (CRP)) in predicting the outcome of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in the management of acute respiratory failure (ARF) on top of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the role of bacteria in the systemic inflammation. Methods. Thirty three patients were subjected to standard treatment plus NIV, and accordingly, they were classified into responders and nonresponders. Serum samples were collected for IL-6, IL-8, and CRP analysis. Sputum samples were taken for microbiological evaluation. Results. A wide spectrum of bacteria was revealed; Gram-negative and atypical bacteria were the most common (31% and 28% resp.; single or copathogen). IL-8 and dyspnea grade was significantly higher in the non-responder group ( and 0.023 resp.). IL-6 correlated positivity with the presence of infection and type of pathogen ( and 0.034 resp.). Gram-negative bacteria were associated with higher significant IL-6 in comparison between others ( pg/dL; ) but insignificantly affected NIV outcome (). Conclusions. High systemic inflammation could predict failure of NIV. G-ve bacteria correlated with high IL-6 but did not affect the response to NIV.
TiO2 Transparent Thin Film for Eliminating Toluene
Authors: Ibrahim Suhaina M. , Negishi Nobuaki , Masrom Abdul Kadir , Mazinani Babak , Ramli Anita , Isnin Aishah , Abdul Malek Mohamad Zahid
Published: July 2012

TiO2 nanoparticles undergo a single-phase transition: from amorphous to anatase when calcined at 450°C. It can be noticed from the XRD and AFM results that the particle size of TiO2 is below 30 nm. Results from viscometer and UV-Vis analysis showed that the film thickness is closely related to the viscosity of dip-coating solutions. It was found that the contact angle for water decreased after being illuminated with UV light at certain periods of time. This indicates that these films exhibit hydrophilic properties that can be used on self-cleaning surfaces and antifogging mirrors. Heterogeneous photocatalytic oxidation allows the oxidation of airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into carbon dioxide and water in the presence of a semiconductor catalyst and UV light source. Titanium dioxide, due to its chemical stability, nontoxicity, and low cost, represents one of the most efficient photocatalysts. Photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 thin films was evaluated by using toluene and results showed that this film is successful in decomposing toluene.
Another Approach to the Extended Stokes’ Problems for the Oldroyd-B Fluid
Authors: Liu Chi-Min
Published: July 2012

The extended Stokes problems, which study the flow suddenly driven by relatively moving half-planes, are reexamined for the Oldroyd-B fluid. This topic has been studied (Liu, 2011) by applying the series expansion to calculate the inverse Laplace transform. The derived solution was correct but tough to perform the calculation due to the series expansion of infinite terms. Herein another approach, the contour integration, is applied to calculate the inversion. Moreover, the Heaviside unit step function is included into the boundary condition to ensure the consistence between boundary and initial conditions. Mathematical methods used herein can be applied to other fluids for the extended Stokes’ problems.
A Primer on Network Meta-Analysis for Dental Research
Authors: Tu Yu-Kang , Faggion Clovis Mariano
Published: July 2012

In the last decade, a new statistical methodology, namely, network meta-analysis, has been developed to address limitations in traditional pairwise meta-analysis. Network meta-analysis incorporates all available evidence into a general statistical framework for comparisons of all available treatments. A further development in the network meta-analysis is to use a Bayesian statistical approach, which provides a more flexible modelling framework to take into account heterogeneity in the evidence and complexity in the data structure. The aim of this paper is therefore to provide a nontechnical introduction to network meta-analysis for dental research community and raise the awareness of it. An example was used to demonstrate how to conduct a network meta-analysis and the differences between it and traditional meta-analysis. The statistical theory behind network meta-analysis is nevertheless complex, so we strongly encourage close collaboration between dental researchers and experienced statisticians when planning and conducting a network meta-analysis. The use of more sophisticated statistical approaches such as network meta-analysis will improve the efficiency in comparing the effectiveness between multiple treatments across a set of trials.
Neural Circuit in the Dorsal Raphe Nucleus Responsible for Cannabinoid-Mediated Increases in 5-HT Efflux in the Nucleus Accumbens of the Rat Brain
Authors: Tao Rui , Ma Zhiyuan
Published: July 2012

In vivo microdialysis was used in this study to reveal the role of cannabinoids in regulating serotonin (5-HT) efflux in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) and dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). The cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonists WIN55212-2 and CP55940 systematically administered to rats caused significant increases in 5-HT efflux in the NAcc but failed to have an effect in the DRN. To reveal mechanisms underlying regionally selective responses, we tested the hypothesis that cannabinoids have both direct and indirect effects on 5-HT efflux, depending on the location of CB1 receptors in the neural circuit between DRN and NAcc. We showed that the direct effect of cannabinoids caused a reduction in 5-HT efflux whereas the indirect effect resulted in an increase. Furthermore, the indirect effect was blocked by the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline in the DRN, suggesting that the action is likely due to a presynaptic inhibition on GABAergic activity that exerts a tonic influence on neuronal circuits regulating 5-HT efflux. Involvement of GABAergic neurons was confirmed by measuring changes in GABA efflux. Taken together, our study suggests that cannabinoids may have direct and indirect effects on the 5-HT regulatory circuits, resulting in regionally selective changes of 5-HT efflux in the brain.
Evaluation of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes for Adaptation to Low Phosphorus
Authors: Mourice Sixbert Kajumula , Tryphone George Muhamba
Published: July 2012

Common bean production in Tanzania is constrained by soil phosphorus which is mainly due to inherently low phosphorus content, soil erosion, and fixation by oxides in acidic soils. A study was conducted to evaluate bean genotypes in a screen house pot experiment for their ability to thrive and produce on low phosphorus soil. Assessment of shoot biomass, root biomass, shoot P concentration, P uptake, and yield components was done using three phosphorus levels and seven bean genotypes. Phosphorus levels, namely, control (P0), medium P (40 mg P/kg), and high P (160 mg P/kg), were the main plot factor, while the genotypes were the subplot in split plot structure, arranged in a completely randomized design. Shoot and root biomass as well as P uptake increased significantly with increase in phosphorus levels. There was varying response of genotypes in performance in terms of shoot biomass P uptake, and yield in a treatment without P addition. Genotypes MILENIO, BAT477, and A785 were outstanding in terms of root and shoot biomass, P uptake and grain yield under low P treatment. Therefore, those genotypes can be recommended for use in low-phosphorus environment as well as breeding materials.
Within-Storm Rainfall Distribution Effect on Soil Erosion Rate
Authors: Ahmed S. I. , Rudra R. P. , Gharabaghi B. , Mackenzie K. , Dickinson W. T.
Published: July 2012

This study investigates the effect of rainfall temporal distribution pattern within a storm event on soil erosion rate and the possibility of using rain power type model for rainfall erosivity. Various rainfall distribution patterns, simulated by rainfall simulator, were used on 1.0 m2 plot of silica sand and loam soil with a minimum of three replications. The results show that the soil erosion rates spiked following every sharp increase in rainfall intensity followed by a gradual decline to a steady erosion rate. Transient effects resulted in the soil erosion rates for an oscillatory rainfall distribution to be more than two fold higher than those obtained for a steady-state rainfall intensity event with same duration and same average rainfall intensity. The 3-parameter and 4-parameter rain power models were developed for a process-based measure of rainfall erosivity. The 4 parameter model yielded better match with the observed data and predicted soil erosion rates more accurately for silica sand under all rainfall distributions, and good results for loam soil under low intensity rainfall. More research is necessary to improve the accuracy of soil erosion prediction models for a wider range of rainfall distributions.
Urinary Tract Infection Prophylaxis in Children with Neurogenic Bladder with Cranberry Capsules: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Mutlu Hatice , Ekinci Zelal
Published: July 2012

Objectives. The aim of this randomized controlled prospective study is to evaluate the efficacy of cranberry capsules for prevention of UTI in children with neurogenic bladder caused by myelomeningocele. Patients and Methods. To be eligible for this study, patients had to be diagnosed as neurogenic bladder caused by myelomeningocele, evaluated urodynamically, followed up with clean intermittent catheterization and anticholinergic drugs. Intervention. Six months of treatment with placebo; after a week of wash-out period treatment of cranberry extract tablets (1 capsule/day) for an additional 6 months. Randomization was performed sequentially. Patients and care givers were blinded to drug assignment. Main outcome measure was infection rate. Group comparisons were performed with Wilcoxon test. Results. The study population included 20 (F/M: 13/7) patients with neurogenic bladder with the mean age of 7.25±3.49 (4, 18) years. The median UTI rate was 0.5/year during placebo usage whereas 0/year during cranberry capsule usage. Decrease in infection rate was significant with cranberry capsule usage (P=0.012). Decrease in the percentage of the pyuria was also recorded as significant (P=0.000). Any adverse events or side effects were not recorded. Conclusion. We concluded that cranberry capsules could be an encouraging option for the prevention of recurrent UTI in children with neurogenic bladder caused by myelomeningocele.
Thermodynamics Performance Analysis of Solar Stirling Engines
Authors: Asnaghi A. , Ladjevardi S. M. , Saleh Izadkhast P. , Kashani A. H.
Published: July 2012

This paper provides numerical simulation and thermodynamic analysis of SOLO 161 Solar Stirling engine. Some imperfect working conditions, pistons' dead volumes, and work losses are considered in the simulation process. Considering an imperfect regeneration, an isothermal model is developed to calculate heat transfer. Hot and cold pistons dead volumes are accounted in the work diagram calculations. Regenerator effectiveness, heater and cooler temperatures, working gas, phase difference, average engine pressure, and dead volumes are considered as effective parameters. By variations in the effective parameters, Stirling engine performance is estimated. Results of this study indicate that the increase in the heater and cooler temperature difference and the decrease in the dead volumes will lead to an increase in thermal efficiency. Moreover, net work has its maximum value when the angle between two pistons shaft equal to 90 degrees while efficiency is maximum in 110 degrees.
The Influence of Coinfection on Mood States in HTLV-1-Infected Patients
Authors: Gascón Maria Rita Polo , Capitão Claudio Garcia , Nogueira-Martins Maria Cezira Fantini , Casseb Jorge , Penalva Oliveira Augusto Cesar
Published: July 2012

The objective of this study was to discuss the influence of coinfection on mood states (depression and anxiety) in Human T Lymphotropic virus type 1 HTLV-1-infected patients. A cross-sectional study was performed with a sample obtained through a nonprobabilistic technique. A total of 130 patients in treatment at the HTLV Ambulatory of Instituto de Infectologia Emílio Ribas participated in the research, of whom 63 had HAM/TS and 67 were asymptomatic. A sociodemographic survey and the Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories were used. The results indicated a prevalence of 7.2% for HTLV-1/HIV co-infection, 7.2% for HTLV-1/HCV, and 4.0% for HTLV-1/HIV/HCV. It is possible that the presence of a co-infection causes greater fear and concern about the future than asymptomatic HTLV-1 infection, increasing the observed degree of depression and anxiety.
Compelled Body Weight Shift Technique to Facilitate Rehabilitation of Individuals with Acute Stroke
Authors: Mohapatra Sambit , Eviota Aileen C. , Ringquist Keir L. , Muthukrishnan Sri Ranjini , Aruin Alexander S.
Published: July 2012

Background. The study evaluates the effectiveness of Compelled Body Weight Shift (CBWS) approach in the rehabilitation of individuals with stroke. CBWS involves a forced shift of body weight towards a person's affected side by means of a shoe insert that establishes a lift of the nonaffected lower extremity.Methods. Eleven patients with acute stroke were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received a two-week conventional physical therapy combined with CBWS and the control group received only a two-week conventional therapy. Weight bearing, Gait velocity, Berg's Balance, and Fugl-Meyer's Scores were recorded before and after the intervention.Results. Weight bearing on the affected side increased in the experimental group and decreased in the control group. The increase in gait velocity with treatment was significant in both the groups . However, experimental group demonstrated larger improvements in gait velocity compared to the control group . Berg Balance and Fugl-Meyer scores increased for both the groups.Conclusion. The implementation of a two-week intervention with CBWS resulted in the improvement in weight bearing and gait velocity of individuals with acute stroke. The present preliminary study suggests that CBWS technique could be implemented as an adjunct to conventional rehabilitation program for individuals with acute stroke.
Field Evaluation of Twelve Clones of Oregano Grown in the Main
Production Areas of Argentina: Identification of Quantitative
Trait with the Highest Discriminant Value
Authors: Torres Lorena E. , Brunetti Paula C. , Baglio Carla , Bauzá Pablo G. , Chaves Ana G. , Massuh Yamile , Ocaño Sonia F. , Ojeda Marta S.
Published: July 2012

In Argentina, oregano (Origanum spp.) is one of the most important aromatic species. Leaves and flowering tops are used as seasoning, targeting the retail consumer, industrial and less to export. Local production has low-average yields due to the variability of cultivated material, the vegetative propagation methods used, and the lack of knowledge and adaptive experimentation on advanced cultivation practices. Clones of oregano grown in the country were collected in order to characterize the germplasm used in Argentina. Twelve oregano clones, sanitized by meristems culture and micropropagated in vitro, were field evaluated in three different growing locations. Regardless of growing site, the quantitative variables with more discriminating value were essential oils yield, internode length, length of the longest branch, fresh weight, dry weight of leaf and stem, leaf/stem ratio, and leaf area. Based on the quantitative traits, oregano clones can be classified into four groups. From the observations based on botanical characteristics, it was determined that the evaluated clones belong to three different taxa: Origanum vulgare ssp. vulgare, Origanum vulgare ssp. hirtum, and Origanum x majoricum (hybrid). Within each group, the clones belong to the same taxon.