bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulatory effect of l-glutamine on 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced liver injury in rats
Authors: Türkez Hasan , Geyikoğlu Fatime , Yousef Mokhtar I
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of l-glutamine (Gln) in alleviating the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin (TCDD) in liver of rats. Rats were intraperitoneally administered Gln and TCDD doses daily for 21 days. In the liver of rats, the biochemical tests, pathological examination and micronucleus (MN) test were performed. TCDD significantly decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes and serious pathological findings. Moreover, the rate of MNs in hepatocytes increased after treatment with dioxin. In rats treated with Gln alone, the MNs remained unchanged, but the ratio of glutathione (GSH) and the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were significantly increased. Gln also prevented the suppression of GSH-Px (except for superoxide dismutase and catalase) and GSH in the livers of animals exposed to TCDD and displayed a strong protective effect against MNs. Thus, our findings for Gln might provide new insight into the development of therapeutic and preventive approaches in TCDD toxicity.
Natural analcime zeolite modified with 2,3,5,6-tetra(2-pyridyl)pyrazine for preconcentration and determination of trace amounts of cadmium by flame atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Saljooghi Amir Shokooh , Saljoghi Zoheir Shokouh
Published: October 2011

An analytical method using natural analcime zeolite modified with tppz (2,3,5,6-tetra-pyridylpyrazine) for preconcentration of cadmium, in a column system, and their sequential determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS), was developed. In this work, cadmium was adsorbed onto natural analcime zeolite modified with tppz and then was recovered by nitric acid. Solutions of cadmium were passed through a glass column packed with 100 mg of the sorbent material, at pH 5.0, and cadmium was eluted with 2.0 M HNO3 at a flow rate of 2.0 ml min−1. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for eight replicate determinations at the 2.5 μg of cadmium was ±0.94%. The calibration curve using the preconcentration system was linear from 0.01 to 4 μg ml−1 in final solution with a correlation coefficient of 0.9993. This method was successfully applied for the determination of cadmium in various samples.
Examination of the Effectiveness of Peppermint Aromatherapy on Nausea in Women Post C-Section
Authors: Lane Betty , Cannella Kathi , Bowen Cathy , Copelan David , Nteff Grace , Barnes Katrina , Poudevigne Melanie , Lawson Jacqueline
Published: October 2011

Purpose: This study examined the effect of peppermint spirits on postoperative nausea in women following a scheduled C-section. Design: A pretest-posttest research design with three groups was used. The peppermint group inhaled peppermint spirits, the placebo aromatherapy control group inhaled an inert placebo, green-colored sterile water, and the standard antiemetic therapy control group received standard antiemetics, usually intravenous ondansetron or promethazine suppositories. Methods: Women were randomly assigned to a group on admission to the hospital. If they became nauseated, nurses on the mother-baby unit assessed their nausea (baseline), administered the assigned intervention, and then reassessed participants' nausea 2 and 5 minutes after the initial intervention. Participants rated their nausea using a 6-point nausea scale. Findings: Thirty-five participants became nauseated post-operatively. Participants in all three intervention groups had similar levels of nausea at baseline. The nausea levels of participants in the peppermint spirits group were significantly lower than those of participants in the other two groups 2 and 5 minutes after the initial intervention. Conclusions: Peppermint spirits may be a useful adjunct in the treatment of postoperative nausea. This study should be replicated with more participants, using a variety of aromatherapies to treat nausea in participants with different preoperative diagnoses.
Opening and closing of a novel high-speed switching valve
Authors: Hu J , Wu W , Yuan S , Jing C
Published: October 2011

The current paper presents a high-speed switching valve for the piston motion control of a single-piston hydraulic free-piston engine. A performance prediction model is developed and a test method for the valve spool movement without using displacement sensors is provided. The agreement between experiments and simulations indicates that the model can predict the valve performance. The valve response is rapid enough for the piston motion control of the engine. The flow capacity of the valve is not reduced by the fast response requirement. The time between the step of the control signal and the response of the pilot valve is important for reducing the valve response lag. A smaller gap is helpful in improving the valve response.
Quantitative high-field imaging of sub-cortical gray matter in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lebel R Marc , Eissa Amir , Seres Peter , Blevins Gregg , Wilman Alan H
Published: October 2011

Background: In addition to neuronal injury, inflammatory, and demyelinating processes, evidence suggests multiple sclerosis (MS) is also associated with increased iron deposition in the basal ganglia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly at very high field strengths, is sensitive to iron accumulation and may enable visualization and quantification of iron associated with MS.

Objectives: To investigate the sub-cortical gray matter in patients with early-stage relapsing–remitting MS using multiple, and novel, quantitative MRI measures at very high field.

Methods: In total, 22 patients with relapsing–remitting MS and 22 control subjects were imaged at 4.7 Tesla. Transverse relaxation rates (R2 and R2*) and susceptibility phase were quantified in four basal ganglia nuclei, the thalamus, and the red nuclei. Parameters in patients with MS were compared with those in healthy subjects and correlated with clinical scores.

Results: Significant abnormalities were observed in most structures, most notably in the pulvinar sub-nucleus. Significant correlations with disability were observed in the pulvinar; marginally significant correlations were also observed in the thalamus and red nucleus. No significant correlations were observed with duration since index relapse.

Conclusions: Widespread abnormalities are present in the deep gray matter nuclei of patients recently diagnosed with MS; these abnormalities can be detected via multi-modal high-field MRI. Imaging metrics, particularly R2*, relate to disease severity in the pulvinar and other gray matter regions.
The sky is the limit: Global warming as global governmentality
Authors: Methmann Chris
Published: October 2011

The concept of governmentality has gained significant influence among scholars of International Relations. Recently, however, there is a growing literature engaging critically with the notion of a global governmentality. This article seeks to inform this debate with insights from global climate change politics as a paradigmatic case for applying governmentality to global politics. Drawing on an analysis of the Clean Development Mechanism, it makes three arguments, which seek to refine the global governmentality concept. First, governmentality does not necessarily centre on the notion of the ‘population’, but can also function as a governmentality of other ‘technological zones’. Second, the seeming failure of a governmentality in its own terms is better understood within a ‘post-foundational’ framework of depoliticization. Third, governmentality and sovereignty are not mutually exclusive. Instead, the former allows the latter to ‘govern at a distance’. The Clean Development Mechanism illustrates these points perfectly. Although it is based on a global ‘carbon governmentality’, it is able to conduct individual conduct directly. Its apparent failure in terms of carbon emission reductions is in fact a success of depoliticizing climate politics, excluding fundamental social structures. And although it is based on an international treaty, it establishes an advanced liberal government of the climate.
In LNCaP cells enhanced expression of both androgen receptor and costimulatory protein p300 compensate for antisense oligonucleotide suppression of bcl-2
Authors: Rubenstein Marvin , Hollowell Courtney M. P. , Guinan Patrick
Published: October 2011

Background: Antisense oligonucleotides (oligos) have been employed against in vivo and in vitro prostate cancer models targeting growth stimulatory gene products. While most oligos have targeted growth factors or their receptors, others have been directed against inhibitors of apoptosis and mediators of androgen action. In LNCaP cells we evaluated a set of oligos which targeted and comparably suppressed the expression of the apoptosis inhibitor protein bcl-2. LNCaP cells adapted to this restoration of apoptosis with an enhanced expression of the androgen receptor (AR) suggesting an increased sensitivity to androgens. In a continuation of this study, we now evaluate the expression of p300, an AR coactivating protein expressed in the later stages of prostate cancer.

Method and results: In previous experiments, monospecific and bispecific oligos directed against bcl-2 suppressed both the targeted bcl-2 protein (an inhibitor of apoptosis) and the nontargeted caspase-3 (a promoter of apoptosis), potentially negating the effect on apoptosis produced by specific inhibition of bcl-2. In a further study we reported that expression of the AR was significantly enhanced by these oligos. We now report that expression of p300 is similarly enhanced. LNCaP cells are hormone sensitive and the untreated cells expressed minimal p300 activity.

Conclusions: The enhanced expression which followed oligo treatment makes its induction more impressive, and implies a pattern of gene expression more associated with later stage (androgen-insensitive) disease. This suggests that oligo treatment directed against bcl-2 not only can be evaded through compensatory changes in AR expression which promotes tumor growth, but the induced expression of p300 may transition the tumor to a more dedifferentiated and aggressive phenotype.
Modified Byars’ flaps for securing skin closure in proximal and mid-penile hypospadias
Authors: AbouZeid Amr Abdelhamid
Published: October 2011

Objective: The objective of this study was to describe a modification for skin closure combined with tubularized incised plate (TIP) urethroplasty in the repair of proximal and mid-penile hypospadias.

Patients and methods: The study included 47 patients with nondistal hypospadias who underwent a primary TIP procedure from September 2007 to May 2010. Meatal position was mid-shaft ( n = 20), penoscrotal ( n = 20), and scrotal ( n = 7). The patients in the study were divided into two groups according to a modification in the technique of skin closure, which involved incising the prepuce vertically into two halves, then harvesting the dartos flap for covering the repair from one half, leaving the other preputial half to reconstruct the ventral skin without compromising its blood supply.

Results: In the standard procedure ( n = 19 patients), complications included glanular dehiscence (10.5%), glanular fistula (5%), urethrocutaneous fistula (10.5%), and skin complications (21%). In the modified procedure ( n = 28 patients), complications included glanular dehiscence (7%) and glanular fistula (3.6%), but no skin complications or urethrocutaneous fistulae occurred.

Conclusion: The modified Byars’ flaps is a useful alternative for skin closure during proximal and mid-shaft TIP urethroplasty, with fewer complications and acceptable cosmetic outcome.
Incidence, Nature, and Causes of Fractures and Dislocations in Olympic Styles of Wrestling in Iran
Authors: Kordi Ramin , Heidarpour Behzad , Shafiei Masih , Rostami Mohsen , Mansournia Mohammad Ali
Published: October 2011

Background: Several studies have evaluated the incidence of and risk factors for injuries among wrestlers, but there are limited data in this population. Understanding the incidence and risk factors could provide important information for educational and preventive efforts at the national and international levels.

Purpose: To assess the incidence of and risk factors for fractures and dislocations among Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestlers in Iran.

Study Design: Prospective cohort study.

Methods: Members of 8 randomly selected wrestling clubs in Kermanshah, Iran, were followed for 12 months. Details of their training and the occurrence of fractures and dislocations were recorded. Related data on fractures and dislocations include site of injury, previous history of injury, coach supervision, and wresting technique that led to the injury.

Results: A total of 495 male wrestlers were included in the study. Seven fractures and 8 dislocations were reported. The incidence of fractures and dislocations was 1.1 per 10 000 athlete exposures, with a fracture rate of 0.5 and a dislocation rate of 0.6. Of the 15 fractures and dislocations, 11 occurred among freestyle wrestlers (0.8 per 10 000 athlete exposures) and 4 occurred among Greco-Roman wrestlers (0.3 per 10 000 athlete exposures). There was a positive correlation between the incidence of wrestlers’ fractures and dislocations and their age ( P < 0.01), years of wrestling experience ( P < 0.01), previous history of fracture or dislocation ( P < 0.01), and age of starting to wrestle ( P = 0.03).

Conclusion: The incidence of fractures and dislocations in this study was lower than that seen in previous studies. The risk of fracture and dislocation was heightened by a wrestler’s increased age and years of experience, history of previous fracture or dislocation, and younger age of starting to wrestle.
Chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms and subsequent cancer risk: a Danish population-based cohort study
Authors: Frederiksen Henrik , Farkas Dóra Körmendiné , Christiansen Christian Fynbo , Hasselbalch Hans Carl , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: October 2011

Patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, including essential thrombocythemia (ET), polycythemia vera (PV), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), are at increased risk of new hematologic malignancies, but their risk of nonhematologic malignancies remains unknown. In the present study, we assessed the risk of both types of malignancies after an ET, PV, or CML diagnosis. We linked 2 population-based nationwide registries, the Danish National Registry of Patients, covering all Danish hospitals and the Danish Cancer Registry, and assessed subsequent cancer risk in a cohort of all 7229 patients diagnosed with a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm during 1977-2008. We compared the incidence of subsequent cancer in this cohort with that expected on the basis of cancer incidence in the general population (standardized incidence ratio). Overall, ET, PV, and CML patients were at increased risk of developing both new hematologic and nonhematologic cancers. The standardized incidence ratio for developing a nonhematologic cancer was 1.2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]): 1.0-1.4) for patients with ET, 1.4 (95% CI: 1.3-1.5) for patients with PV, and 1.6 (95% CI: 1.3-2.0) for patients with CML. We conclude that patients with chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms are at increased risk of developing a new malignant disease.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Kotecha S. , Barbato A. , Bush A. , Claus F. , Davenport M. , Delacourt C. , Deprest J. , Eber E. , Frenckner B. , Greenough A. , Nicholson A.G. , Antón-Pacheco J.L. , Midulla F.
Published: October 2011

Infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) have significant mortality and long-term morbidity. Only 60–70% survive and usually those in high-volume centres. The current Task Force, therefore, has convened experts to evaluate the current literature and make recommendations on both the antenatal and post-natal management of CDH. The incidence of CDH varies from 1.7 to 5.7 per 10,000 live-born infants depending on the study population. Antenatal ultrasound scanning is routine and increasingly complemented by the use of magnetic resonance imaging. For isolated CDH, antenatal interventions should be considered, but the techniques need vigorous evaluation. After birth, management protocols are often used and have improved outcome in nonrandomised studies, but immediate intubation at birth and gentle ventilation are important. Pulmonary hypertension is common and its optimal management is crucial as its severity predicts the outcome. Usually, surgery is delayed to allow optimal medical stabilisation. The role of minimal invasive post-natal surgery remains to be further defined. There are differences in opinion about whether extracorporeal membrane oxygenation improves outcome. Survivors of CDH can have a high incidence of comorbidities; thus, multidisciplinary follow-up is recommended. Multicentre international trials are necessary to optimise the antenatal and post-natal management of CDH patients.
Serum selenium level and risk of lung cancer mortality: a 16-year follow-up of the Copenhagen Male Study
Authors: Suadicani Poul , Hein Hans Ole , Gyntelberg Finn
Published: October 2011

Serum selenium has been implicated as a risk factor for lung cancer, but the issue remains unsettled.

In a cohort of 3,333 males aged 53–74 yrs, we tested the hypothesis that a low serum selenium concentration would be associated with an increased risk of lung cancer mortality.

Over 16 yrs, 167 (5.1%) subjects died of lung cancer: 48 (5.0%) out of 965 with low serum selenium (0.4–1.0 μmol·L−1), 57 (5.1%) out of 1,141 with medium serum selenium (1.1–1.2 μmol·L−1) and 62 (5.1%) out of 1,227 with high serum selenium (1.3–3.0 μmol·L−1). After adjustment for age, referencing the lowest level of serum selenium, hazard ratios (HRs) for medium and high levels of serum selenium were 0.97 (95% CI 0.66–1.43) and 0.99 (95% CI 0.68–1.45), respectively. Taking into account pack-years of smoking, spirits intake, dietary markers (salt and fat preferences) and health measures (chronic bronchitis and peak flow), referencing the lowest level of serum selenium, HRs were 1.17 (95% CI 0.79–1.75) and 1.43 (95% CI 0.96–2.14), for medium and high levels respectively. Among heavy smokers, a high serum selenium concentration was associated with a significantly increased risk of lung cancer mortality after taking into account all potential confounders.

The hypothesis that low serum selenium is an independent risk factor for lung cancer was not supported.
The resistive and elastic work of breathing during exercise in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Cross Troy J. , Sabapathy Surendan , Beck Kenneth C. , Morris Norman R. , Johnson Bruce D.
Published: October 2011

Patients with heart failure (HF) display numerous derangements in ventilatory function, which together serve to increase the work of breathing (Wb) during exercise. However, the extent to which the resistive and elastic properties of the respiratory system contribute to the higherWbin these patients is unknown.

We quantified the resistive and elasticWbin patients with stable HF (n=9; New York Heart Association functional class I–II) and healthy control subjects (n=9) at standardised levels of minute ventilation (V′E) during graded exercise. Dynamic lung compliance was systematically lower for a given level ofV′Ein HF patients than controls (p<0.05). HF patients displayed slightly higher levels of inspiratory elasticWbwith greater amounts of ventilatory constraint and resistiveWbthan control subjects during exercise (p<0.05).

Our data indicates that the higherWbin HF patients is primarily due to a greater resistive, rather than elastic, load to breathing. The greater resistiveWbin these patients probably reflects an increased hysteresivity of the airways and lung tissues. The marginally higher inspiratory elasticWbobserved in HF patients appears related to a combined decrease in the compliances of the lungs and chest wall. The clinical and physiological implications of our findings are discussed.
Subclinical atherosclerosis, airflow obstruction and emphysema: the MESA Lung Study
Authors: Barr R.G. , Ahmed F.S. , Carr J.J. , Hoffman E.A. , Jiang R. , Kawut S.M. , Watson K.
Published: October 2011

Airflow obstruction is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events in the general population. The affected vascular bed and contribution of emphysema to cardiovascular risk are unclear. We examined whether an obstructive pattern of spirometry and quantitatively defined emphysema were associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in the carotid, peripheral and coronary circulations.

The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis recruited participants aged 45–84 yrs without clinical cardiovascular disease. Spirometry, carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), ankle-brachial index (ABI) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) were measured using standard protocols. Percentage of emphysema-like lung was measured in the lung windows of cardiac computed tomography scans among 3,642 participants. Multiple linear regression was used to adjust for cardiac risk factors, including C-reactive protein.

Decrements in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and FEV1/forced vital capacity ratio were associated with greater internal carotid IMT, particularly among smokers (p=0.03 and p<0.001, respectively) whereas percentage emphysema was associated with reduced ABI regardless of smoking history (p=0.004). CAC was associated with neither lung function (prevalence ratio for the presence of CAC in severe airflow obstruction 0.99, 95% CI 0.91–1.07) nor percentage emphysema.

An obstructive pattern of spirometry and emphysema were associated distinctly and independently with subclinical atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries and peripheral circulation, respectively, and were not independently related to CAC.
Wal-Mart's Impact on Supplier Profits
Authors: Huang Qingyi , Nijs Vincent R. , Hansen Karsten , Anderson Eric T.
Published: October 2011

Previous academic research on the expansion of dominant retailers such as Wal-Mart has examined implications for incumbent retailers, consumers, and the local community. Little is known, however, about Wal-Mart's influence on suppliers' performance. Manufacturers suggest that Wal-Mart uses its power to squeeze their profits. In this article, the authors study the validity of this claim. They investigate the underlying mechanisms that may cause changes in manufacturer profits following Wal-Mart market entry. The data contain information on supplier interactions with retail stores, including Wal-Mart, for a period of five years. They find that postentry supplier profits increased by 18% on average, whereas profits derived from incumbent retailers decreased only marginally. Their results show that wholesale prices are not the main driver of postentry supplier profit changes; market expansion is. They observe a significant increase in shipments to 50% of markets studied. Furthermore, their analyses demonstrate that supplier shipment and profit increases are highest for markets in which incumbents offer a wide variety of products and carry items that Wal-Mart does not sell.
Adaptive Approach to the Estimation of Uncertainty in Industrial Quality Testing Using Image Sensors
Authors: Weißensee Karina , Linß Gerhard , Kühn Olaf
Published: October 2011

For drawing the right conclusions from an indicated measuring value of a quantity to the unit under test, it is indispensable to express the assigned expanded measurement uncertainty. For the industrial quality testing image sensors are widely used due to their multitude of advantages, e. g. the contactless operation mode, the high level of automation connected with the short measurement time and the flexibility in the measurement of different workpieces. This paper is derived to propose a new knowledge-based approach to the adaptive and automated uncertainty estimation for precision coordinate measurements using image sensors. It can be shown, that the novel method gives estimates of measurement uncertainty which are practicable and widely corresponding with experimental effectuated uncertainty declarations.
MD Simulations of Compression of Nanoscale Iron Pillars
Authors: Healy Con J. , Ackland Graeme J.
Published: October 2011

It is now possible to create perfect crystal nanowires of many metals. The deformation of such objects requires a good understanding of the processes involved in plasticity at the nanoscale. Isotropic compression of such nanometre scale micropillars is a good model system to understand the plasticity. Here we investigate these phenomena using Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations of nanometre scale single crystal BCC iron pillars in compression.

We find that pillars with large length to width ratio may buckle under high strain rates. The type of buckling behaviour depends sensitively on the boundary conditions used: periodic boundary conditions allow for rotation at top and bottom of the pillar, and result in an S shaped buckle, by contrast fixed boundaries enforce a C shape. Pillars with a length to width ratio closer to that used in experimental micropillar compression studies show deformation behaviour dominated by slip, in agreement with the experiments. For micropillars oriented along <100>, slip occurs on <110> planes and localized slip bands are formed. Pillars of this size experience higher stresses than bulk materials before yielding takes place. One might expect that this may be in part due to the lack of nucleation sites needed to induce slip. However, further simulations with possible dislocation sources: a shorter iron pillar containing a spherical grain boundary, and a similar pillar containing jagged edges did not show a decreased yield strength.
Serial Head Circumference and Neurodevelopmental Screening after Surgical Correction for Single- and Multiple-Suture Craniosynostosis
Authors: Carlisle Michael P. , Mehta Sagar T. , Sykes Kevin J. , Singhal Virender K.
Published: October 2011

Objective

To evaluate serial head circumference (HC) measurements and neurodevelopmental (ND) screening before and after surgical revision for craniosynostosis.

Design

Retrospective assessment.

Setting

Tertiary institutional.

Patients, Participants

All children treated with single-stage frontal-orbital advancement or total calvarial expansion for single-suture (SS) or multiple-suture (MS) craniosynostosis over a 7-year period.

Main Outcome Measures

Changes in ND and HC were measured over postoperative visits after the primary surgery. More importantly, ND and HC changes were measured prerevision and postrevision.

Results

Of 183 patients undergoing primary surgery, complete records and adequate follow-up were available for 112 patients. The overall revision rate was 21% (n = 23). Postrevision follow-up was adequate for 18 of the 23 revisions. After primary surgery, but prior to revision, children demonstrated a larger decline in HC(z-score, median = -1) along with higher ND findings (median = 2) from one postoperative visit to the next than those who did not go on revision (HC z-score median = 0, ND median = 0). After revision, patients demonstrated a significant improvement in ND screening findings (median AND findings = -2) compared with prerevision ND (p < .001). Head circumference also significantly increased by a z-score of +1 postrevision (p = .001).

Conclusions

Patients chosen for revision surgery display not only a larger decline in HC but also more ND findings prior to revision. Furthermore, surgical revision has a significant association with both improved ND screening and HC.
Ligands for FimH
Authors: Thisbe K. Lindhorst
Published: October 2011

Adhesion of bacteria to glycosylated cells and surfaces is largely facilitated through adhesive organells projecting from the bacterial surface, which are called fimbriae. The most important fimbriae in Escherichia coli and in most of the other enterobacteria are the type 1 fimbriae which mediate adhesion in an α-D-mannoside-specific manner. The lectin that is responsible for binding terminal α-D-mannosyl residues is called FimH and is located at the tips of type 1 fimbriae. FimH is known to mediate shear-enhanced adhesion of bacteria to mannosylated cells or surfaces. Like many adhesins, FimH is a two-domain protein consisting of a pilin domain, that anchors FimH to the fimbrial shaft, and a distal, N-terminal lectin domain, harboring the carbohydrate binding pocket. A variety of natural as well as synthetic ligands for type 1 fimbriated bacteria and FimH, respectively, have been tested in order to improve our understanding of this protein-carbohydrate interaction in cellular adhesion and in an attempt to develop effective low-molecular weight compounds for an anti-adhesion therapy. Besides tailor-made ligands that have been designed based on the computer docking, various multivalent cluster mannosides have revealed interesting activities. In this review, carbohydrate binding by FimH will be discussed and modern means for its investigation including photoaffinity labelling will be described. In addition, very recent crystallographic work will be documented that provides an explanation for shear-enhanced binding of type 1 fimbriated E. coli.
Multivalent Glycocalixarenes
Authors: Francesco Sansone, , ,  , Rispoli Gabriele , Casnati Alessandro , Ungaro Rocco
Published: October 2011

Calixarenes, the cyclic oligomers obtained by condensation of phenols or resorcinols with aldehydes, are ideal scaffolds for the construction of multivalent glycosylated ligands with unique properties. Thanks to the possibility that we can vary their size, valency and conformation and finely tune the topology of the saccharide units in the space, a wide variety of glycocalixarenes could have been prepared in the last 15 years. In this account, after a brief review on the basic chemistry of calixarenes, we will focus the attention on the most convenient methodologies used so far for the synthesis of glycocalixarenes and on their aggregation and biological properties. Glycocalixarenes often show, in fact, an impressive ability in the recognition and inhibition of carbohydrate binding proteins (lectins) disclosing remarkable multivalent effects. The amphiphilic character, due to the simultaneous presence of highly hydrophilic saccharide units and of a lipophilic aromatic backbone, confers to glycocalixarenes a marked tendency to self-aggregate in water solution. A quite unique peculiarity of these glycoclusters is related to their combined ability to firmly bind small organic molecules and to strongly and selectively interact with lectins, which makes them ideal candidates for tomorrow's site-specific drug-delivery systems. Other important biological functions have been envisaged to be influenced by the multivalency of glycocalixarenes which span gene-delivery, inhibition of tumor cell migration and proliferation to stimulation of the immunogenic system.
Living Kidney Donors Ages 70 and Older
Authors: Berger Jonathan C. , Muzaale Abimereki D. , James Nathan , Hoque Mohammed , Wang Jacqueline M. Garonzik , Montgomery Robert A. , Massie Allan B. , Hall Erin C. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: October 2011

Background and objectives

The profound organ shortage has resulted in longer waiting times and increased mortality for those awaiting kidney transplantation. Consequently, patients are turning to older living donors. It is unclear if an upper age limit for donation should exist, both in terms of recipient and donor outcomes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In the United States, 219 healthy adults aged ≥70 have donated kidneys at 80 of 279 transplant centers. Competing risks models with matched controls were used to study the independent association between older donor age and allograft survival, accounting for the competing risk of recipient mortality as well as other transplant factors.

Results

Among recipients of older live donor allografts, graft loss was significantly higher than matched 50-to 59-year-old live donor allografts (subhazard ratio [SHR] 1.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16 to 2.28, P = 0.005) but similar to matched nonextended criteria 50-to 59-year-old deceased donor allografts (SHR 1.19, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.63, P = 0.3). Mortality among living kidney donors aged ≥70 was no higher than healthy matched controls drawn from the NHANES-III cohort; in fact, mortality was lower, probably reflecting higher selectivity among older live donors than could be captured in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES-III; HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.65, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings support living donation among older adults but highlight the advantages of finding a younger donor, particularly for younger recipients.
Age-Specific Associations of Reduced Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate with Concurrent Chronic Kidney Disease Complications
Authors: Bowling C. Barrett , Inker Lesley A. , Gutiérrez Orlando M. , Allman Richard M. , Warnock David G. , McClellan William , Muntner Paul
Published: October 2011

Background and objectives

It has been suggested that moderate reductions in estimated GFR (eGFR) among older adults may not reflect chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

We examined age-specific (<60, 60 to 69, 70 to 79, and ≥80 years) associations between eGFR level and six concurrent CKD complications among 30,528 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1988 to 1994 and 1999 to 2006 (n = 8242 from NHANES 2003 to 2006 for hyperparathyroidism). Complications included anemia (hemoglobin <12 g/dl women, <13.5 g/dl men), acidosis (bicarbonate <22 mEq/L), hyperphosphatemia (phosphorus ≥4.5 mg/dl), hypoalbuminemia (albumin <3.5 mg/dl), hyperparathyroidism (intact parathyroid hormone ≥70 pg/ml), and hypertension (systolic/diastolic BP ≥140/90 mmHg or antihypertensive use).

Results

Among participants ≥80 years old, compared with those with estimated GFR (eGFR) ≥60 ml/min per 1.73 m2, the multivariable adjusted prevalence ratios (95% confidence interval) associated with eGFR levels of 45 to 59 and <45 ml/min per 1.73 m2 were 1.39 (1.11 to1.73) and 2.06 (1.59 to 2.67) for anemia, 1.33 (0.89 to 1.98) and 2.47 (1.52 to 4.00) for acidosis, 1.11 (0.70 to 1.76) and 2.16 (1.36 to 3.42) for hyperphosphatemia, 2.04 (1.39 to 3.00) and 2.83 (1.76 to 4.53) for hyperparathyroidism and 1.09 (1.03 to 1.14), and 1.12 (1.05 to 1.19) for hypertension, respectively. Higher prevalence ratios for these complications at lower eGFR levels were also present at younger ages. Reduced eGFR was associated with hypoalbuminemia only for adults <70.

Conclusions

Reduced eGFR was associated with a higher prevalence of several concurrent CKD complications, regardless of age.
Comparison of some blood parameters, serum vitamin E and mineral concentrations of Arabian and English thoroughbred race horses
Authors: Bilal Tarik , Ercag Erol , Demirel Gulcan , Bilal Tanay
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study was to determine some blood parameters, serum vitamin E and mineral concentrations of Arabian and English thoroughbred racehorses fed the same diets. The diet was formulated to provide 2.31 Mcal DE/kg, and 10.96% crude protein. Total protein, lactate, calcium, phosphorus, potassium copper, cobalt and zinc were determined in serum obtained from 40 Arabian and 40 English healthy racing thoroughbred horses aged 2-3. The copper, cobalt and zinc concentrations were determined by atomic absorption, vitamin E by HPLC and the other biochemical parameters by a spectrophotometer. Mean values were 6.77 and 6.86 g/dl for total protein, 1.88 and 2.16 mg/dl for lactate 13.18 and 12.80 mg/dl for calcium, 4.35 and 4.39 mmol/l for phosphorus, 2.64 and 3.14 mmol/l for potassium, 129 and 166 ?g/dl for copper, 36 and 44 ?g/dl for cobalt and, 160 and 58 ?g/dl for zinc in Arabian and English horses respectively, and Mean serum vitamin E levels were 2.65 and 2.81 ?g/ml respectively. This study did not demonstrate a significant effect of breed on serum total protein, lactate, calcium, phosphorus, copper, cobalt and vitamin E. However, breed may have an effect on potassium and zinc concentration in Arabian and English thoroughbred racehorses (p<0.05).
Monitoring the occurrence of patens foramen ovale in fattening swine breeds continuation
Authors: Bajan L. , Jencík F. , Tesfaye A.Jr , Buleca J. , Bugarsky A.Jr , Skalka J. , Iviciak J.
Published: October 2011

The occurrence of foramen ovale patens (FOP) was investigated in 96 hearts taken from the Slovak meat-type (SM), 38 hearts from Yorkshire (YO), 51 hearts from Slovak meat-type x Yorkshire (SM x YO), 43 hearts from Pietrain x Yorkshire (PN x YO) and 45 hearts from Pietrain x Slovak meat-type (PN x SM) breeds. The investigation was done at the Station for Research and Meat Quality Evaluation. We determined the presence of FOP only in the hearts collected from SM in 7 cases, which is 13.7% of the occurrence, and in the PN x SM in 4 cases (11.2%). We did not observe any occurrence of FOP in the other investigated breeds. All of the investigated positive cases of FOP were in the male breeds of the SM. In the cross breeds of PN x SM two positive cases of FOP were found in both sexes. As far as the size of the FOP is concerned, there have been documented 2mmdiameter in four cases and 3mmin three cases in the SM breeds. On the other hand, in the PN x SM cross breeds neither case had more than 2 mm in size. After camparing these results with our previous work, we decided further to investigate the occurrence of these heart defects at the line level of each meat breed.
Odzacari-teodorice in Novi Sad
Authors: Visekruna Danka
Published: October 2011

'Odzacari 'chimney sweepers' - t(e)odorice... is the name for the description of the ritual whose original name is not known. It is a very old, pre-Christian, annual - spring ritual belonging to the domain of the productive magic and the ancestor cult (of the dead). Afterwards and later, it was related to the cleaning of chimneys before the beginning of Lent (The Cheese-fare Sunday) or the first week of Lent (the first Sunday of Lent or Th(e)odore's Sunday). Since it has not attracted attention of the researchers so far, almost half a century after its disappearance it is reconstructed in the only possible way: exclusively according to the oral sources - the accounts of the old inhabitants of Novi Sad, the Serbs of the Orthodox faith.
Population challenges from the gender perspective
Authors: Sobot Ankica
Published: October 2011

In this paper, population challenges are recognized from the perspective of various demographic structures of the male and female population. The larger scope of female population in Vojvodina is mainly the result of a more emphasized gender imbalance among the population of 65 or over. There are more unmarried females but more males among the never-married persons. Among the middle-aged population, there are more women with higher education, but they are also economically independent to a greater extent than the male population. Gender equality is a challenge as a factor of demographic processes and as an aspect of policies directed towards the population, but adequate responses for demographic development and social care of the population are implied by both male and female positions. By comparative approach, the characteristics of gender positions and differences in Vojvodina are noted, as well as the space for promoting positions of sexes and mitigation of the gender gap. The necessity for a deeper socio-demographic analysis and empirical research of gender differences as a relevant population challenge are also noted. .
Integral rural development: Toward a more harmonious regional development
Authors: Radovanovic Veljko
Published: October 2011

The paper discusses the integral rural development and its importance for the policy of a more balanced regional development. Highly emphasized regional disproportions in almost all domains, as well as the long-standing lagging behind in the development of village and agriculture, resulted in faltering and stagnation of total development of the country. Overcoming, this problem calls for application of a more complex model of developmental policy for the village and rural society, which demand a multidisciplinary approach. Active policy and promotion of integral rural development is not only in the interest of rural communities, but of the society as a whole. This implies that investment in a wide range of economic branches in rural areas is of vital importance for increasing the attractiveness of rural areas, encouragement of sustainable development and creation of new possibilities for employment, especially of young educated people who are ready and capable to accept the new philosophy of development of these areas. Although rural areas in Serbia observed as a whole are highly heterogeneous with respect to economic development, according to the basic parameters of development degree, they lag behind urban and industrial centers considerably, and much more attention should be devoted to this phenomenon in the future.
Identifying Individuals With an Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knee as Copers and Noncopers: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Kaplan Yonatan
Published: October 2011

Study Design

Narrative literature review.

Objectives

First, to explore the differences and outcomes between individuals who have had anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and those who did not undergo surgical intervention, following a tear of the ACL. Second, to review the evidence related to the ability to identify individuals who may or may not need surgery after an ACL rupture. Finally, to describe the differences between copers and noncopers.

Background

ACL rupture may result in increased tibiofemoral laxity and impaired neuromuscular function, which ultimately may lead to knee instability and dysfunction. Individuals who opt to choose surgery due to these changes may be defined as “noncopers.” Conversely, those individuals who have an ACL-deficient knee without functional impairment and instability and successfully resume preinjury activity levels without surgical intervention may be defined as “copers.”

Methods

An electronic search was conducted up to April 2011, using medical subject headings and free-text words. The subject-specific search was based on the terms “anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction versus conservative treatment,” “copers,” “noncopers.”

Results

A similar percentage of copers and noncopers return to sporting activity. Three papers used an algorithm and screening examination involving individuals with ACL injuries. Evidence suggests that, as opposed to copers, noncopers have deficits in quadriceps strength, vastus lateralis atrophy, quadriceps activation deficits, altered knee movement patterns, reduced knee flexion moment, and greater quadriceps/hamstring cocontraction.

Conclusion

ACL screening examination showed preliminary evidence for detecting potential copers. Objective differences exist between copers and noncopers. Individuals with ACL injury should be informed of the possibility of good knee function following a nonoperative rehabilitation program. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(10):758–766. doi:10.2519/jospt.2011.3384
Development of a Cumulative Psychosocial Factor Index for Problematic Recovery Following Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries
Authors: Wideman Timothy H. , Sullivan Michael J.L.
Published: October 2011

Background

Psychosocial variables such as fear of movement, depression, and pain catastrophizing have been shown to be important prognostic factors for a wide range of pain-related outcomes. The potential for a cumulative relationship between different elevated psychosocial factors and problematic recovery following physical therapy has not been fully explored.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the level of risk for problematic recovery following work-related injuries is associated with the number of elevated psychosocial factors.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

Two hundred two individuals with subacute, work-related musculoskeletal injuries completed a 7-week physical therapy intervention and participated in testing at treatment onset and 1 year later. An index of psychosocial risk was created from measures of fear of movement, depression, and pain catastrophizing. This index was used to predict the likelihood of experiencing problematic recovery in reference to pain intensity and return-to-work status at the 1-year follow-up.

Results

Logistic regression analysis revealed that the number of prognostic factors was a significant predictor of persistent pain and work disability at the 1-year follow-up. Chi-square analysis revealed that the risk for problematic recovery increased for patients with elevated levels on at least 1 psychosocial factor and was highest when patients had elevated scores on all 3 psychosocial factors.

Limitations

The physical therapy interventions used in this study were not standardized. This study did not include a specific measure for physical function.

Conclusions

The number of elevated psychosocial factors present in the subacute phase of recovery has a cumulative effect on the level of risk for problematic recovery 1 year later. This research suggests that a cumulative prognostic factor index could be used in clinical settings to improve prognostic accuracy and to facilitate clinical decision making.
Patient comorbidity score predicting the incidence of perioperative complications: assessing the impact of comorbidities on complications in spine surgery
Authors: Campbell Peter G. , Yadla Sanjay , Nasser Rani , Malone Jennifer , Maltenfort Mitchell G. , Ratliff John K.
Published: October 2011

Object

Present attempts to control health care costs focus on reducing the incidence of complications and hospital-acquired conditions (HACs). One approach uses restriction or elimination of hospital payments for HACs. Present approaches assume that all HACs are created equal and that payment restrictions should be applied uniformly. Patient factors, and especially patient comorbidities, likely impact complication incidence. The relationship of patient comorbidities and complication incidence in spine surgery has not been prospectively reported.

Methods

The authors conducted a prospective assessment of complications in spine surgery during a 6-month period; an independent auditor and a validated definition of perioperative complications were used. Initial demographics captured relevant patient comorbidities. The authors constructed a model of relative risk assessment based on the presence of a variety of comorbidities. They examined the impact of specific comorbidities and the cumulative effect of multiple comorbidities on complication incidence.

Results

Two hundred forty-nine patients undergoing 259 procedures at a tertiary care facility were evaluated during the 6-month duration of the study. Eighty percent of the patients underwent fusion procedures. One hundred thirty patients (52.2%) experienced at least 1 complication, with major complications occurring in 21.4% and minor complications in 46.4% of the cohort. Major complications doubled the median duration of hospital stay, from 6 to 12 days in cervical spine patients and from 7 to 14 days in thoracolumbar spine patients. At least 1 comorbid condition was present in 86% of the patients. An increasing number of comorbidities strongly correlated with increased risk of major, minor, and any complications (p = 0.017, p < 0.0001, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Patient factors correlating with increased risk of specific complications included systemic malignancy and cardiac conditions other than hypertension.

Conclusions

Comorbidities significantly increase the risk of perioperative complications. An increasing number of comorbidities in an individual patient significantly increases the risk of a perioperative adverse event. Patient factors significantly impact the relative risk of HACs and perioperative complications.