bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Chlorination of Physcion – An Approach to Naturally Occurring Chlorinated Secondary Metabolites of Lichens
Authors: Stevanović Dragana , Damljanović Ivan , Vukićević Mirjana , Manojlović Nedeljko , Radulović Niko S. , Vukićević Rastko D.
Published: August 2011

The electrochemical chlorination of physcion (=1,8‐dihydroxy‐3‐methoxy‐6‐methylanthracene‐9,10‐dione; 1) in AcOH and CH2Cl2 was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and prep.‐scale electrolysis. This approach provided access to a number of diverse biologically and pharmacologically interesting chlorinated secondary metabolites of lichen. Unlike the only previous literature report on the ‘classical’ chlorination of physcion (1), which allowed the preparation of 4‐chlorophyscion (2b), 4,5‐dichlorophyscion (3b), and 2,4,5‐trichlorophyscion (4), the present procedure also gave fragilin (=2‐chlorophyscion; 2a) and 2,4‐dichlorophyscion (3a), alongside the previously obtained 2b, 3b, and 4. All of these compounds, except for 2a, were isolated by column chromatography and medium‐pressure liquid chromatography (MPLC) and characterized by spectral data. The preparative electrolysis with a 2 F⋅mol−1 charge consumption in AcOH and 10 F⋅mol−1 in CH2Cl2 may have a practical synthetic utility, since the thus obtained product mixtures can be readily fractioned by column chromatography to afford pure 2b and 4, respectively. The regioselectivity of the reaction is explained by the resonance stabilization of the corresponding arenium cations ‐ potential products of an electrophilic attack of a ‘positive’ Cl species on the physcion molecule.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Simplactones A and B
Authors: Prabhakar Peddikotla , Ramesh Dasari , Rajaram Singanaboina , Reddy Dorigondla Kumar , Venkateswarlu Yenamandra
Published: August 2011

A new, simple, and short route for the synthesis of simplactones A (1) and B (2) was achieved from a synthetically prepared chiral auxiliary, i.e., the Oppolzer camphor‐derived sultam 4, and (4‐methoxybenzyl)‐protected 3‐hydroxypropanal, in 52 and 48% overall yield, respectively, and with high diastereoselectivity (Schemes 2 and 3).
Synthesis of calcium–silica composites: A route toward an in vitro model system for calcific band keratopathy precipitates
Authors: Doostdar Nadjmeh , Manrique Carissa J. , Hamill M. Bowes , Barron Andrew R.
Published: August 2011

Calcific band keratopathy (CBK) is a degenerative condition resulting in the deposition of calcium salts in the superficial layers of the cornea and causing significant visual disturbance and pain of the affected eye. Unfortunately, the amount of CBK precipitates recovered from the affected eye is very small therefore; it would be beneficial to prepare a synthetic material mimicking CBK material to further the development of therapeutics. Analyses of biological samples recovered from patients show the presence of silicon in addition to calcium, as well as a distinctive fused spherical morphology. This prompted us to study the reaction of various sources of silicon (fumed silica, silicic acid, and silicone oil) with CaCO3 under a range of reaction conditions to gain an understanding of the formation of CBK. A silicon source alone was not found to be responsible for the fused spherical morphology, and a third component, a polar surfactant‐like molecule such as sodium dodecyl sulfate or tetradecylphosphonic acid, was also required. The effects of silicon:calcium ratio and reaction time have been studied. The reaction of fumed silica with CaCO3 in presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate results in the formation of spherical shapes resembling the structures and chemical composition observed in the eye samples, while no such structures were observed in the absence of silicon. Samples closely resembling human samples were also formed from the reaction of silicone oil with CaCO3 in the presence of tetradecylphosphonic acid. Samples were characterized by SEM, XRD, and XPS and Raman spectroscopy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2011.
In vivo toxicity of poly(propyleneimine) dendrimers
Authors: Ziemba Barbara , Janaszewska Anna , Ciepluch Karol , Krotewicz Maria , Fogel Wiesława A. , Appelhans Dietmar , Voit Brigitte , Bryszewska Maria , Klajnert Barbara
Published: August 2011

Dendrimers are highly branched macromolecules with the potential to be used for biomedical applications. Several dendrimers are toxic owing to their positively charged surfaces. However, this toxicity can be reduced by coating these peripheral cationic groups with carbohydrate residues. In this study, the toxicity of three types of 4th generation poly (propyleneimine) dendrimers were investigated in vivo; uncoated (PPI‐g4) dendrimers, and dendrimers in which 25% or 100% of surface amino groups were coated with maltotriose (PPI‐g4‐25%m or PPI‐g4‐100%m), were administered to Wistar rats. Body weight, food and water consumption, and urine excretion were monitored daily. Blood was collected to investigate biochemical and hematological parameters, and the general condition and behavior of the animals were analyzed. Unmodified PPI dendrimers caused changes in the behavior of rats, a decrease in food and water consumption, and lower body weight gain. In the case of PPI‐g4 and PPI‐g4‐25%m dendrimers, disturbances in urine and hematological and biochemical profiles returned to normal during the recovery period. PPI‐g4‐100%m was harmless to rats. The PPI dendrimers demonstrated dose‐ and sugar‐modification‐degree dependent toxicity. A higher dose of uncoated PPI dendrimers caused toxicity, but surface modification almost completely abolished this toxic effect. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2011.
Salient poles synchronous machine simulation, validation and inductance determination procedure
Authors: Alves Aylton José , Neto Luciano Martins , Calixto Wesley Pacheco , Wu Marcel , Alvarenga Bernardo , Menescal de Oliveira José Mário
Published: August 2011

In this paper, a computer simulation of the salient poles synchronous machine (SPSM) is presented. This simulation employs a modeling based on the machine self and mutual inductance curves, determined from a methodology, which is also presented here. This methodology applies the volt–ampere method in a first experimental stage, where the machine currents and voltages are oscillographied, with its digitalized data storage. In a second stage, stored data receive a mathematical manipulation. The simulated results are confronted with the experimental currents and voltages measured in tests for purposes of validation of the SPSM modeling as well as the inductance determination methodology. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transparentes leitfähiges TiO2:Nb – ein TCO‐Material der Zukunft?
Authors: Junghähnel Manuela , Kopte Torsten , Zywitzki Olaf
Published: August 2011

Niob dotiertes Titanoxid ist ein noch weitestgehend unbekanntes TCO‐Material. Mittels Gleichstrom‐ und Puls‐Magnetron‐Sputtern wurden polykristalline TiO2:Nb‐Schichten in einer produktionsähnlichen Beschichtungsanlage abgeschieden und die Eigenschaften der Schichten untersucht. Eine mittels Gleichstrom gesputterte 100 nm dicke TiO2:Nb‐Schicht zeigt nach einer thermischen Behandlung bei 450 °C einen niedrigen spez. elektr. Widerstand von 7,2 × 10−4 Ωcm, einen Extinktionskoeffizienten von 0,02 und eine Transmission im sichtbaren Spektralbereich von 74,8%.
Die häufigsten Fehler beim Einsatz von Vakuumpumpen und deren Vermeidung
Authors: Barfuss Heinz
Published: August 2011

Da das Anwendungsspektrum für Vakuumpumpen immer weiter wächst, ist es erforderlich, dass die Vakuumpumpenhersteller auf die Kundenbedürfnisse zugeschnittene Produkte entwickeln und anbieten. Um einen störungsfreien Betrieb und Funktionserfüllung in der Anlage zu erreichen, gilt es, gewisse Einsatzparameter und Betriebsweisen einzuhalten. In diesem Artikel wird aus der Sicht des Pumpenherstellers versucht, dem Betreiber und Systemhersteller hilfreiche und sinnvolle Hinweise über Auswahl, Betriebsweise, Zubehör, Überwachung und erforderliche Wartung für die am häufigsten eingesetzten Vakuumpumpen zu vermitteln.
Impact of total vaginal mesh surgery for pelvic organ prolapse on female sexual function
Authors: Wang Chiu‐Lin , Long Cheng‐Yu , Juan Yung‐Shun , Liu Cheng‐Min , Hsu Chun‐Shuo
Published: August 2011

Objective

To evaluate the short‐term impact of surgical repair with total transvaginal mesh (TVM) on sexual function among women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods

Twenty‐seven sexually active women who underwent total TVM procedures for symptomatic POP at Buddhist Dalin Tzu Chi General Hospital between 2007 and 2010 were included in the retrospective study. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included pelvic examination using the POP quantification (POP‐Q) system, urodynamic studies, and a personal interview to evaluate urinary and sexual symptoms via the urogenital distress inventory (UDI‐6), incontinence impact questionnaire (IIQ‐7), and female sexual function index (FSFI).

Results

The mean patient age was 51.4 years (range 36–68 years) and the mean parity was 2.7 (range 0–4). Regarding POP‐Q parameters, there were significant improvements at points Aa, Ba, C, Ap, and Bp after surgery (P < 0.001). Similarly, the UDI‐6 and IIQ‐7 scores significantly dropped postoperatively (P < 0.01). After surgery, the scores for the dyspareunia and the lubrication domains of FSFI worsened significantly (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in other domains (desire, arousal, orgasm, satisfaction, and total score; P > 0.05). Two‐thirds (66.7%) of women had a lower total FSFI score postoperatively.

Conclusion

TVM surgery was found to contribute successfully to the anatomic correction of POP, but individual domains of sexual function sometimes worsened.
Genetic effects on fitness of the mutant sugary1 in wild-type maize
Authors: DJEMEL A. , ORDÁS B. , KHELIFI L. , ORDÁS A. , REVILLA P.
Published: August 2011

Knowing the genetic regulation of fitness is crucial for using mutants in breeding programmes, particularly when the mutant is deleterious in some genetic backgrounds, as it happens with the sweet corn mutant sugary1 (su1) in maize (Zea mays L.). The fitness and genetic effects of maize mutant su1 were monitored through five successive selfing generations in two separated mean-generation designs. The first involved two inbreds with similar genetic backgrounds, while unrelated inbreds were used for the second design. Parents, F1s, F2s, and backcrosses were crossed to P39 as the donor of su1 and the 12 crosses were successively self-pollinated for 5 years. The su1 frequency decreased linearly across selfing generations in both designs. Additive effects were significant for su1 seed viability. However, dominance effects were of higher magnitude than additive effects, even though the dominance effects were not significant. Genetic effects depended on genotypes and environments. Therefore, the fitness of su1 is under genetic control, with significant additive effects due to minor contributions of multiple genes. The fitness of su1 is strongly affected by maize genotypic background and environment. It is hypothesized that genotypes could have evolutionary potential for modulating the fitness of single mutations.
Hormone variations in serum and milk of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) as potential indicators of treatment with recombinant bovine somatotropin
Authors: Castigliego Lorenzo , Li Xiao Ning , Armani Andrea , Grifoni Goffredo , Boselli Carlo , Rosati Remo , Gianfaldoni Daniela , Guidi Alessandra
Published: August 2011

Recombinant bovine somatotropin (rbST) is used to increase milk yield in cows, but it has been forbidden in some countries and in the EU. However, rbST misuse represents a concern in both bovine and buffalo dairy production. A number of studies on rbST treatment have been performed on bovines, but there are few data on buffaloes. In this study, we treated eight lactating buffaloes with biweekly injections of a slow-release formulation of rbST, for five cycles of administration, and analysed total ST and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) variations in serum and IGF-1 in milk. The aim was to assess their power as potential indicators of rbST-treatment. Blood was collected on days 2, 5, 9 and 14 of each cycle, and milk on days 2, 9 and 14 of cycles 2 and 5. Results showed an extraordinary increase in ST levels on day 2 in treated animals, followed by a rapid decrease over the following days, while a significant increase in IGF-1 was observed both in serum and in milk throughout most of each cycle. These results suggest that serum ST levels are a good indicator of treatment. However, the rapid decrease after the peak limits the useful period of sample collection.
Time, foreknowledge, and alternative possibilities
Authors: GREEN JEFFREY , ROGERS KATHERIN
Published: August 2011

In this article we respond to arguments from William Hasker and David Kyle Johnson that free will is incompatible with both divine foreknowledge and eternalism (what we refer to as isotemporalism). In particular, we sketch an Anselmian account of time and freedom, briefly defend the view against Hasker's critique, and then respond in more depth to Johnson's claim that Anselmian freedom is incompatible with free will because it entails that our actions are ‘ontologically necessary’. In defending Anselmian freedom we argue that our ordinary intuitions do not support Johnson's case and that Anselmian freedom is compatible with deliberation.
Changing Ethical Frameworks: From Individual Rights to the Common Good?
Authors: SUTROP MARGIT
Published: August 2011

Whereas in the 1970s early bioethicists believed that bioethics is an arena for the application of philosophical theories of utilitarianism, deontology, and natural law thinking, contemporary policy-oriented bioethicists seem rather to be keen on framing ethical issues through political ideologies. Bioethicists today are often labeled “liberal” or “communitarian,” referring to their different understandings of the relationship between the individual and society. Liberal individualism, with its conceptual base of autonomy, dignity, and privacy, enjoyed a long period of dominance in bioethics, but it has increasingly come under attack from ideologies promoting a more salient role for concepts of solidarity, community, and public interest.
Database Research: Public and Private Interests
Authors: ÁRNASON VILHJÁLMUR
Published: August 2011

It is often argued that a major tension in bioethics is between protecting the private interests of individuals on one hand and contributing to the common good on the other. In this article I ask how fitting this description is as regards the interest at stake in relation to the issue of consent to participation in population data collections. I raise some doubts about what I take to be two common positions regarding public and private interests in this context. The first is that restricted individual consent protects private interests at the cost of public interest.
Novel NIR Spectroscopy Correlation Approach to Amino Acid Analysis of Soybean Proteins for Composition Improvements. (v.3)
Authors: Prisecaru Valentin , Baianu I.
Published: August 2011

Amino acid NIR calibrations were developed in our Physical Chemistry of Foods Laboratory of the University of Illinois at Urbana for three selected amino acid groups that include essential amino acids for identified soybean accessions. Conventional “wet chemistry” analytical methods are time-consuming and costly. As a result, soybean breeders and researchers have an imperative need to utilize faster and less expensive methods. NIR Spectroscopy is a rapid and inexpensive method for composition analysis for academia and industry. Recent advancements in instrumentation design, such as the application of the Diode Array (DA) technique and the Fourier Transform (FT) IR and NIR techniques, have significantly improved overall instrument performance and advancement in the field of grain analysis.Novel results are presented for amino acid calibrations for US soybean accessions relevant to the food and agricultural industry.
Reconsidering the New Normal: Trauma, Vulnerability & Resilience in Post-Katrina New Orleans
Authors: Blum Michael , Gotham Kevin , McLachlan John , Zipperer Wayne , Campanella Richard
Published: August 2011

Traumatic anthropogenic or natural disasters can redefine the ecological and social diversity of cities, with "new normal" conditions often emerging in post-trauma urban landscapes. The objective of our ULTRA project is to examine how the pace and trajectory of recovery in post-Katrina New Orleans reflect ecological and social diversity. Specifically, we are examining potential parallels and interactions between ecological and social diversity within and among neighborhoods, and across the New Orleans metropolitan area. We are doing so by (1) organizing and coordinating a network of scholars and practitioners to exchange experience and knowledge and thereby advance understanding of connections between diversity and recovery in post-trauma urban ecosystems; (2) assembling a central data archive on the structure and diversity of ecological communities of New Orleans, which involves conducting an inventory of the post-Katrina urban forest; (4) and conducting a GIS-based spatial analysis of pre- and post-trauma landscape and social metrics derived from satellite imagery and the 2000 and 2010 federal census, analyzed for diversification and compared to stabilization metrics. This citywide study is being supplemented with three fine-grained studies in the neighborhoods of the Lower Ninth Ward, Hollygrove, and Pontchartrain Park. Qualitative data collected in these neighborhoods provides insight into the relationships between trauma and ecological and social diversity, and identify variation in the timing, pace, and trajectory of neighborhood recovery. In the future, we will expand our efforts to consider how diversity reflects the availability and valuation of ecosystem services in post-trauma urban landscapes. Our intent is to develop New Orleans as a natural laboratory for the study of ecological and community resiliency.
Larger amygdala but no change in hippocampal volume in 10-year-old children exposed to maternal depressive symptomatology since birth
Authors: Lupien Sonia J. , Parent Sophie , Evans Alan C. , Tremblay Richard E. , Zelazo Philip David , Corbo Vincent , Pruessner Jens C. , Séguin Jean R.
Published: August 2011

Maternal separation and poor maternal care in animals have been shown to have important effects on the developing hippocampus and amygdala. In humans, children exposed to abuse/maltreatment or orphanage rearing do not present changes in hippocampal volumes. However, children reared in orphanages present enlarged amygdala volumes, suggesting that the amygdala may be particularly sensitive to severely disturbed (i.e., discontinous, neglectful) care in infancy. Maternal depressive symptomatology has been associated with reductions in overall sensitivity to the infant, and with an increased rate of withdrawn, disengaged behaviors. To determine if poor maternal care associated with maternal depressive symptomatology has a similar pattern of association to the volumes of the hippocampus and amygdala in children, as is the case for severely disturbed infant care (orphanage rearing), we measured hippocampal and amygdala volumes as well as stress hormone (glucocorticoid) levels in children exposed (n= 17) or not (n= 21) to maternal depressive symptomatology since birth. Results revealed no group difference in hippocampal volumes, but larger left and right amygdala volumes and increased levels of glucocorticoids in the children of mothers presenting depressive symptomatology since birth. Moreover, a significant positive correlation was observed between mothers' mean depressive scores and amygdala volumes in their children. The results of this study suggest that amygdala volume in human children may represent an early marker of biological sensitivity to quality of maternal care.
Aurora B dynamics at centromeres create a diffusion-based phosphorylation gradient
Authors: Wang Enxiu , Ballister Edward R. , Lampson Michael A.
Published: August 2011

Aurora B kinase is essential for successful cell division and regulates spindle assembly and kinetochore–microtubule interactions. The kinase localizes to the inner centromere until anaphase, but many of its substrates have distinct localizations, for example on chromosome arms and at kinetochores. Furthermore, substrate phosphorylation depends on distance from the kinase. How the kinase reaches substrates at a distance and how spatial phosphorylation patterns are determined are unknown. In this paper, we show that a phosphorylation gradient is produced by Aurora B concentration and activation at centromeres and release and diffusion to reach substrates at a distance. Kinase concentration, either at centromeres or at another chromosomal site, is necessary for activity globally. By experimentally manipulating dynamic exchange at centromeres, we demonstrate that the kinase reaches its substrates by diffusion. We also directly observe, using a fluorescence resonance energy transfer–based biosensor, phosphorylation spreading from centromeres after kinase activation. We propose that Aurora B dynamics and diffusion from the inner centromere create spatial information to regulate cell division.
Anticoagulating obese patients in the modern era
Authors: Patel Jignesh P. , Roberts Lara N. , Arya Roopen
Published: August 2011

The prevalence of obesity has increased substantially over recent years. Clinicians are increasingly being challenged with making uncertain anticoagulant dosing decisions, as the optimal dosing strategy for most anticoagulants in the obese patient population remains unknown. Research published to date suggests that the clearance of anticoagulants increases with weight. As obesity is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism and arterial disease, there is an urgent need to establish appropriate anticoagulation regimens for this patient group. Research studies applying the method of pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic modelling and simulation could establish an appropriate evidence base and provide direction and reassurance to prescribing clinicians.
Biofilm growth alters regulation of conjugation by a bacterial pheromone
Authors: Cook Laura , Chatterjee Anushree , Barnes Aaron , Yarwood Jeremy , Hu Wei‐Shou , Dunny Gary
Published: August 2011

Conjugation is an important mode of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria, enhancing the spread of antibiotic resistance. In clinical settings, biofilms are likely locations for antibiotic resistance transfer events involving nosocomial pathogens such as Enterococcus faecalis. Here we demonstrate that growth in biofilms alters the induction of conjugation by a sex pheromone in E. faecalis. Mathematical modelling suggested that a higher plasmid copy number in biofilm cells would enhance a switch‐like behaviour in the pheromone response of donor cells with a delayed, but increased response to the mating signal. Alterations in plasmid copy number, and a bimodal response to induction of conjugation in populations of plasmid‐containing donor cells were both observed in biofilms, consistent with the predictions of the model. The pheromone system may have evolved such that donor cells in biofilms are only induced to transfer when they are in extremely close proximity to potential recipients in the biofilm community. These results may have important implications for development of chemotherapeutic agents to block resistance transfer and treat biofilm‐related clinical infections.
Interpolating Spatial Interaction Data1
Authors: Jang Woo , Yao Xiaobai
Published: August 2011

Spatial interpolation has been widely used to improve the spatial granularity of data, or to mediate between inconsistent zoning schemes of spatial data. Traditional areal interpolation methods translate values of source zones to those of target zones. These methods have difficulty in dealing with flow data, as each instance is associated with a pair of zones. This study develops a new concept, flow line interpolation, to fill the abovementioned gap. We also develop a first flow line interpolation method to estimate commuting flow data between spatial units in a target zoning scheme based on such data in a source zoning scheme. Three models (i.e., areal‐weighted, intelligent, and gravity‐type flow line interpolation) are presented. To test the estimation accuracy and the application potential of these models, a case study of Fulton County in Georgia is conducted. The results reveal that both the areal‐weighted and intelligent models are very promising flow line interpolation methods.
Modified Smith predictor with a robust disturbance reduction scheme for linear systems with small time delays
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Hau , Tung Pi‐Cheng
Published: August 2011

This paper presents a robust disturbance reduction scheme using an artificial neural network (ANN) for linear systems with small time delays. It is assumed that the nominal linear systems are stable, minimum phase and relative degree one systems. The proposed structure is an integration of a modified Smith predictor and an ANN‐based disturbance reduction scheme. Unlike other disturbance rejection methods, the proposed approach does not require information about unknown load disturbance frequencies. An ANN is used to approximate the unknown load disturbances and to enhance the robustness of the proposed disturbance reduction scheme against modelling errors in the estimated time delay and the process model. Connective weights of the ANN are trained on‐line using a back‐propagation algorithm until uncertainties resulting from unknown load disturbances and modelling errors are minimized. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the presented disturbance reduction scheme for controlling linear delay systems subjected to step or periodic unknown load disturbances.
Discovering patterns of online purchasing behaviour and a new‐product‐launch strategy
Authors: Hung Lun‐Ping
Published: August 2011

Spurred by rapid development of computers and Internet technology, online shopping is gradually overtaking in‐store shopping, because of advantages such as convenience, more choice of products or services etc. Online stores must devote a great deal of time and resources to locating and attracting new customers. Growing a customer base requires first understanding customers and then providing the products or services they need, thus encouraging customers to purchase more. This paper develops a system to analyse customers’ purchasing behaviour and track shifts in their interests. Customers’ purchasing behaviour is measured using proposed standard product loyalty status and standard brand loyalty status. Using these metrics, together with the preference map established for each customer, a marketing specialist can easily locate potential customers to target when a company launches a new product. The new‐product‐launch strategy proposed in this paper can be used to create a list of potential customers for a product being launched under a variety of conditions. A prototype system has been built to test the feasibility of the proposed new‐product‐launch strategy. The result shows almost 40% of potential customers respond to the recommendation positively.
Managed Care and the Diffusion of Endoscopy in Fee‐for‐Service Medicare
Authors: Mobley Lee Rivers , Subramanian Sujha , Koschinsky Julia , Frech H. E. , Trantham Laurel Clayton , Anselin Luc
Published: August 2011

Objective

To determine whether Medicare managed care penetration impacted the diffusion of endoscopy services (sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy) among the fee‐for‐service (FFS) Medicare population during 2001–2006.

Methods

We model utilization rates for colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy as impacted by both market supply and demand factors. We use spatial regression to perform ecological analysis of county‐area utilization rates over two time intervals (2001–2003, 2004–2006) following Medicare benefits expansion in 2001 to cover colonoscopy for persons of average risk. We examine each technology in separate cross‐sectional regressions estimated over early and later periods to assess differential effects on diffusion over time. We discuss selection factors in managed care markets and how failure to control perfectly for market selection might impact our managed care spillover estimates.

Results

Areas with worse socioeconomic conditions have lower utilization rates, especially for colonoscopy. Holding constant statistically the socioeconomic factors, we find that managed care spillover effects onto FFS Medicare utilization rates are negative for colonoscopy and positive for sigmoidoscopy. The spatial lag estimates are conservative and interpreted as a lower bound on true effects. Our findings suggest that managed care presence fostered persistence of the older technology during a time when it was rapidly being replaced by the newer technology.
The Novel Leptospiral Surface Adhesin Lsa20 Binds Laminin and Human Plasminogen and Is Probably Expressed during Infection
Authors: Mendes Renata Siqueira , Von Atzingen Marina , de Morais Zenaide Maria , Gonçales Amane Paldes , Serrano Solange M. T. , Asega Amanda F. , Romero Eliete Caló , Vasconcellos Silvio Arruda , Nascimento Ana Lucia Tabet O.
Published: August 2011

Leptospirosis is an emerging infectious disease caused by pathogenic species of
Leptospira
. In this work, we report the cloning, expression, purification, and characterization of two predicted leptospiral outer membrane proteins, LIC11469 and LIC11030. The LIC11469 protein is well conserved among leptospiral strains, while LIC11030 was identified only in
L
eptospira
interrogans
. We confirmed by surface proteolysis of intact leptospires with proteinase K that these proteins are most likely new surface leptospiral proteins. The recombinant proteins were evaluated for their capacity to attach to extracellular matrix (ECM) components and to plasminogen. The leptospiral protein encoded by LIC11469, named Lsa20 (leptospiral surface adhesin of 20 kDa), binds to laminin and to plasminogen. The binding with both components was not detected when Lsa20 was previously denatured or blocked with anti-Lsa20 antibodies. Moreover, Lsa20 binding to laminin was also confirmed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Laminin competes with plasminogen for binding to Lsa20, suggesting the same ligand-binding site. Lsa20-bound plasminogen could be converted to enzymatically active plasmin, capable of cleaving plasmin substrate
d
-valyl-leucyl-lysine
-p-
nitroanilide dihydrochloride. Lsa20 was recognized by antibodies in confirmed-leptospirosis serum samples, suggesting that this protein is expressed during infection. Taken together, our results indicate that Lsa20 is a novel leptospiral adhesin that in concert with the host-derived plasmin may help the bacteria to adhere and to spread through the hosts.
On the Effect of Quantum Interaction Distance on Quantum Addition Circuits
Authors: Choi Byung-Soo , Van Meter Rodney
Published: August 2011

We investigate the theoretical limits of the effect of the quantum interaction distance on the speed of exact quantum addition circuits. For this study, we exploit graph embedding for quantum circuit analysis. We study a logical mapping of qubits and gates of any
Ω
(log
n
)-depth quantum adder circuit for two
n
-qubit registers onto a practical architecture, which limits interaction distance to the nearest neighbors only and supports only one- and two-qubit logical gates. Unfortunately, on the chosen
k
-dimensional practical architecture, we prove that the depth lower bound of any exact quantum addition circuits is no longer
Ω
(log
n
), but
Ω
(
k
√
n
). This result, the first application of graph embedding to quantum circuits and devices, provides a new tool for compiler development, emphasizes the impact of quantum computer architecture on performance, and acts as a cautionary note when evaluating the time performance of quantum algorithms.
Breakdown and Evolution of the Protective Oxide Scales of AISI 304 and AISI 316 Stainless Steels under High-Temperature Oxidation
Authors: Habib K. A. , Damra M. S. , Saura J. J. , Cervera I. , Bellés J.
Published: August 2011

The failure of the protective oxide scales of AISI 304 and AISI 316 stainless steels has been studied and compared at 1,000°C in synthetic air. First, the isothermal thermogravimetric curves of both stainless steels were plotted to determine the time needed to reach the breakdown point. The different resistance of each stainless steel was interpreted on the basis of the nature of the crystalline phases formed, the morphology, and the surface structure as well as the cross-section structure of the oxidation products. The weight gain of AISI 304 stainless steel was about 8 times greater than that of AISI 316 stainless steel, and AISI 316 stainless steel reached the breakdown point about 40 times more slowly than AISI 304 stainless steel. In both stainless steels, reaching the breakdown point meant the loss of the protective oxide scale of Cr2O3, but whereas in AISI 304 stainless steel the Cr2O3scale totally disappeared and exclusively Fe2O3was formed, in AISI 316 stainless steel some Cr2O3persisted and Fe3O4was mainly formed, which means that AISI 316 stainless steel is more resistant to oxidation after the breakdown.
Preeclampsia Is Associated With Persistent Postpartum Cardiovascular Impairment
Authors: Melchiorre Karen , Sutherland George Ross , Liberati Marco , Thilaganathan Basky
Published: August 2011

Preeclampsia is associated with asymptomatic global left ventricular abnormal function and geometry during the acute phase of the disorder. These subclinical abnormalities in cardiac findings are known to be important in cardiovascular risk stratification for nonpregnant patients. Furthermore, epidemiological studies have also demonstrated a relationship between preeclampsia and cardiac morbidity and mortality later in life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the postpartum natural history and clinical significance of asymptomatic left ventricular impairment known to occur with acute preeclampsia. This was a prospective longitudinal case-control study of 64 subjects with preeclampsia and 78 matched controls. There were 3 time point assessments, pregnancy and 1 and 2 years postpartum. The assessments included a medical and family history, blood pressure profile, echocardiography, and 12-lead ECG. At 1 year postpartum, asymptomatic left ventricular moderate-severe dysfunction/hypertrophy was significantly higher in preterm preeclampsia (56%) compared with term preeclampsia (14%) or matched controls (8%;
P
values <0.001). The risk of developing essential hypertension within 2 years was significantly higher in both preterm preeclamptic women and those with persistent left ventricular moderate-severe abnormal function/geometry. The cardiovascular implications of preeclampsia do not end with the birth of the infant and placenta. The majority of preterm preeclamptic women have stage B asymptomatic heart failure postpartum, and 40% develop essential hypertension within 1 to 2 years after pregnancy. Women with a history of preterm preeclampsia may benefit from formal cardiovascular risk assessment in the 1 to 2 years after delivery to identify those who would benefit from targeted therapeutic intervention.
Leukocyte integrin activation mediates transient neutropenia after G-CSF administration
Authors: Donahue Robert E. , Tuschong Laura , Bauer Thomas R. , Yau Yu Ying , Leitman Susan F. , Hickstein Dennis D.
Published: August 2011

After administration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), there is a marked, albeit transient, drop in circulating neutrophils. To determine the role of leukocyte integrins in this disappearance, a dog having canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) or CLAD dogs who had undergone gene correction either by matched littermate allogeneic transplant or autologous gene therapy were evaluated. Shortly after G-CSF administration, a dramatic, yet transient, neutropenia was observed in the control littermates. This neutropenia was not as marked in the CLAD dogs. In all instances, it was CD18+ neutrophils that preferentially egressed from the circulation. The association of CD18 with this rapid loss suggested leukocyte integrin activation after G-CSF administration. To determine the activation status of the integrin, a monoclonal antibody recognizing the activated α-subunit cation binding domain (mAb24) was used to evaluate human leukocytes after G-CSF administration. Mirroring the dramatic decrease in circulating neutrophil numbers, there was a dramatic and specific increase in the activation of the α-subunit after G-CSF expression on polymorphonuclear leukocytes. This activation, like the drop in neutrophil count, was transient. These results demonstrate that the leukocyte integrin on circulating neutrophils is transiently activated after G-CSF administration and mediates the transient neutropenia observed after G-CSF administration.
Cug2 is essential for normal mitotic control and CNS development in zebrafish
Authors: Kim Hyun-Taek , So Ju-Hoon , Jung Seung-Hyun , Ahn Dae-Gwon , Koh Wansoo , Kim Nam-Soon , Kim Soo-Hyun , Lee Soojin , Kim Cheol-Hee
Published: August 2011

Background

We recently identified a novel oncogene, Cancer-upregulated gene 2 (CUG2), which is essential for kinetochore formation and promotes tumorigenesis in mammalian cells. However, the in vivo function of CUG2 has not been studied in animal models.

Results

To study the function of CUG2 in vivo, we isolated a zebrafish homologue that is expressed specifically in the proliferating cells of the central nervous system (CNS). Morpholino-mediated knockdown of cug2 resulted in apoptosis throughout the CNS and the development of neurodegenerative phenotypes. In addition, cug2-deficient embryos contained mitotically arrested cells displaying abnormal spindle formation and chromosome misalignment in the neural plate.

Conclusions

Therefore, our findings suggest that Cug2 is required for normal mitosis during early neurogenesis and has functions in neuronal cell maintenance, thus demonstrating that the cug2 deficient embryos may provide a model system for human neurodegenerative disorders.
Preventive effect of Ibrolipim on suppressing lipid accumulation and increasing lipoprotein lipase in the kidneys of diet-induced diabetic minipigs
Authors: Liu Yi , Wang Zong Bao , Yin Wei Dong , Li Qin Kai , Cai Man Bo , Yu Jian , Li Hong Guang , Zhang Chi , Zu Xiu Hong
Published: August 2011

Background

The role of renal lipoprotein lipase (LPL)per sein kidney diseases is still controversial and obscure. The purpose of this study was to observe the preventive effects of Ibrolipim, a LPL activator, on lipid accumulation and LPL expression in the kidneys of minipigs fed a high-sucrose and high-fat diet (HSFD).

Methods

Male Chinese Bama minipigs were fed a control diet or HSFD with or without 0.1 g/kg/day Ibrolipim for 5 months. Body weight, plasma glucose, insulin, lipids, LPL activity, and urinary microalbumin were measured. Renal tissue was obtained for detecting LPL activity and contents of triglyceride and cholesterol, observing the renal lipid accumulation by Oil Red O staining, and examining the mRNA and protein expression of LPL by real time PCR, Western Blot and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Feeding HSFD to minipigs caused weight gain, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia and microalbuminuria. HSFD increased plasma LPL activity while it decreased the mRNA and protein expression and activity of LPL in the kidney. The increases in renal triglyceride and cholesterol contents were associated with the decrease in renal LPL activity of HSFD-fed minipigs. In contrast, supplementing Ibrolipim into HSFD lowered body weight, plasma glucose, insulin, triglyceride and urinary albumin concentrations while it increased plasma total cholesterol and HDL-C. Ibrolipim suppressed the renal accumulation of triglyceride and cholesterol, and stimulated the diet-induced down-regulation of LPL expression and activity in the kidney.

Conclusions

Ibrolipim exerts renoprotective and hypolipidemic effectsviathe increase in renal LPL activity and expression, and thus the increased expression and activity of renal LPL play a vital role in suppressing renal lipid accumulation and ameliorating proteinuria in diet-induced diabetic minipigs.
Fatal invasive cervical cancer secondary to untreated cervical dysplasia: a case report
Authors: Braun Stephan , Reimer Daniel , Strobl Isolde , Wieland Ulrike , Wiesbauer Petra , Müller-Holzner Elisabeth , Fessler Siegfried , Scherer Arthur , Marth Christian , Zeimet Alain G
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Well-documented cases of untreated cervical intra-epithelial dysplasia resulting in fatal progression of invasive cervical cancer are scarce because of a long pre-invasive state, the availability of cervical cytology screening programs, and the efficacy of the treatment of both pre-invasive and early-stage invasive lesions.

Case presentation

We present a well-documented case of a 29-year-old Caucasian woman who was found, through routine conventional cervical cytology screening, to have pathologic Papanicolaou (Pap) grade III D lesions (squamous cell abnormalities). She subsequently died as a result of human papillomavirus type 18-associated cervical cancer after she refused all recommended curative therapeutic procedures over a period of 13 years.

Conclusion

This case clearly demonstrates a caveat against the promotion and use of complementary alternative medicine as pseudo-immunologic approaches outside evidence-based medicine paths. It also demonstrates the impact of the individualized demands in diagnosis, treatment and palliative care of patients with advanced cancer express their will to refuse evidence-based treatment recommendations.
Cardiogenic shock following administration of propofol and fentanyl in a healthy woman: a case report
Authors: Renilla González Alfredo , Lozano Martinez-Luengas Iñigo , Benito Martín Eva María , Secades González Sandra , Álvarez Pichel Irene , Álvarez Martinez Paloma , Santamarta Liébana Elena , Díaz Molina Beatriz
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Cardiogenic shock is very uncommon in healthy people. The differential diagnosis for patients with acute heart failure in previously healthy hearts includes acute myocardial infarction and myocarditis. However, many drugs can also depress myocardial function. Propofol and fentanyl are frequently used during different medical procedures. The cardiovascular depressive effect of both drugs has been well established, but the development of cardiogenic shock is very rare when these agents are used.

Case presentation

After a minor surgical intervention, a 32-year-old Caucasian woman with no significant medical history went into sudden hemodynamic deterioration due to acute heart failure. An urgent echocardiogram showed severe biventricular dysfunction and an estimated left ventricular ejection fraction of 20%. Extracorporeal life support and mechanical ventilation were required. Five days later her ventricular function had fully recovered, which allowed the progressive withdrawal of medical treatment. Prior to her hospital discharge, cardiac MRI showed neither edema nor pathological deposits on the delayed contrast enhancement sequences. At her six-month follow-up examination, the patient was asymptomatic and did not require treatment.

Conclusion

Although there are many causes of cardiogenic shock, the presence of abrupt hemodynamic deterioration and the absence of a clear cause could be related to the use of propofol and fentanyl.
MicroRNA regulation in mammalian adipogenesis
Authors: Romao Josue M , Jin Weiwu , Dodson Michael V , Hausman Gary J , Moore Stephen S , Guan Le Luo
Published: August 2011

Adipogenesis, the complex development from preadipocytes or mesenchymal stem cells to mature adipocytes, is essential for fat formation and metabolism of adipose tissues in mammals. It has been reported to be regulated by hormones and various adipogenic transcription factors which are expressed as a transcriptional cascade promoting adipocyte differentiation, leading to the mature adipocyte phenotype. Recent findings indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs), a family of small RNA molecules of approximately 22 nucleotides in length, are involved in the regulatory network of many biological processes, including cell differentiation, through post-transcriptional regulation of transcription factors and/or other genes. In this review, we focus on the recent understanding of the roles of miRNAs in adipogenesis, including the most recent and relevant findings that support the role of several miRNAs as pro- or antiadipogenic factors regulating adipogenesis in mice, human and cattle to propose the future role of miRNA in adipogenesis of farm animal models.
Germs Preserve Us
Authors: greene thomas
Published: August 2011

This article considers the history of lacto-fermented vegetables such as pickles, sauerkraut, and kimchi, and the simple health advantages they have provided for many centuries. It notes that the only advantage so far proved—the preservation of vitamin C—is duplicated by most modern foods, even junk foods. It questions the vague evidence suggesting that lacto-fermented foods provide additional health advantages such as preventing heart disease and cancer, or aiding digestion and nutrition. It proposes that the centuries during which a vitamin C boost would have yielded a substantial health and mortality advantage have left us susceptible to a placebo effect worth billions to the nutritional industry. It concludes that, in the absence of any real evidence of miraculous effects, there remain good reasons to eat brined vegetables, not the least of which is simple pleasure. Two instructional recipes are included, one for sauerkraut and one for kimchi.
John Singer Sargent's “Devils”
Authors: arensman emily
Published: August 2011

Around 1875, John Singer Sargent painted a small oil picture of two octopuses on the deck of a fishing boat near Brittany. This canvas, now titled Two Octopi, is one of the very earliest oil paintings in the artist's oeuvre and shows Sargent's youthful proficiency in the medium. Even more remarkable is Sargent's peculiar choice of subject, particularly for an artist who would become famous for his portraits of high society. This essay examines the different evidence one can mine from Two Octopi: Sargent's early travels, academic training, and visual and tactile imagination. It also draws on culinary history of the notorious “devil fish” to demonstrate the uninhibited ambitions and adventurous choices of a young artist on the brink of his professional career.