bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Environment on the Crack Propagation Behavior of IN718 in the Temperature Range of the Dynamic Embrittlement
Authors: Wackermann Ken , Krupp Ulrich , Christ Hans-Jürgen
Published: May 2011

IN718 is a standard nickel-base alloy for high temperature usage, e.g., as forged gas turbine disks. At elevated temperatures IN718 is prone to cracking by dynamic embrittlement. Dynamic embrittlement is caused by oxygen diffusion along the grain boundaries, resulting in a time-dependent intergranular decohesion. The result is a fast brittle intercrystalline crack propagation. In contrast, vacuum testing shows a drastic reduction of the crack propagation rate and a ductile, transcrystalline fracture morphology. Objective of this investigation is to gain a better understanding of the dynamic embrittlement process. In the present study the crack growth rate has been measured with an alternate current potential drop system (ACPD) and a far-field microscope during dwell-time testing at 650°C, a positive stress ratio and two different load schemes.
Ghrelin does not orchestrate the metabolic changes seen in fasting but has significant effects on lipid mobilisation and substrate utilisation
Authors: Huda M S B , Dovey T M , Wong S P , English P J , Halford J C G , McCulloch P , Cleator J , Martin B , Cashen J , Hayden K , Ghatei M A , Bloom S R , Wilding J P H , Pinkney J H
Published: May 2011

Objective

Short-term fasting is associated with increased GH pulsatility and mobilisation of fats, but underlying mechanisms are unclear. We studied ghrelin's role during fasting and the effects of exogenous ghrelin on lipid mobilisation.

Design

Randomised placebo-controlled study.

Methods

In this study, ten controls (body mass index (BMI) 23.3±3.2), ten morbidly obese subjects (BMI 50.1±10.6) and six post-gastrectomy subjects (BMI 25.2±1.0) were fasted for 36 h undergoing regular blood sampling. On a separate occasion, subjects were infused with either i.v. ghrelin (5 pmol/kg per min) or saline over 270 min.

Results

Obese and post-gastrectomy subjects had lower ghrelin compared with controls (ANOVA, P=0.02) during the fast. Controls and gastrectomy subjects showed a similar increase in GH pulsatility, circulating non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and 3β-hydroxybutyrate (3 HB). Obese subjects had an impaired GH response (P<0.001), reduced excursions of 3 HB (P=0.01) but no change in NEFA excursions (P=0.09) compared with controls. Ghrelin infusion increased GH, NEFA and ketone bodies (ANOVA, P<0.0001) in all the three groups, but GH response was impaired in the obese subjects (P=0.001). Ghrelin also induced a significant (ANOVA, P=0.004) biphasic NEFA response to meals in all the subjects.

Conclusions

Despite low circulating ghrelin, gastrectomy subjects maintain a normal metabolic response to fasting, implying that ghrelin plays a minimal role. In contrast, infused ghrelin has significant effects on lipid mobilisation and induces a marked biphasic NEFA response to meals. Hence, ghrelin may play a significant role in meal-related substrate utilisation and metabolic flexibility.
POMC overexpression in the ventral tegmental area ameliorates dietary obesity
Authors: Andino Lourdes M , Ryder Daniel J , Shapiro Alexandra , Matheny Michael K , Zhang Yi , Judge Melanie K , Cheng K Y , Tümer Nihal , Scarpace Philip J
Published: May 2011

The activation of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in different regions of the brain, including the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARC) and the nucleus of the solitary tract curtails feeding and attenuates body weight. In this study, we compared the effects of delivery of a recombinant adeno-associated viral (rAAV) construct encoding POMC to the ARC with delivery to the ventral tegmental area (VTA). F344×Brown Norway rats were high-fat (HF) fed for 14 days after which self-complementary rAAV constructs expressing either green fluorescent protein or the POMC gene were injected using coordinates targeting either the VTA or the ARC. Corresponding increased POMC levels were found at the predicted injection sites and subsequent α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone levels were observed. Food intake and body weight were measured for 4 months. Although caloric intake was unaltered by POMC overexpression, weight gain was tempered with POMC overexpression in either the VTA or the ARC compared with controls. There were parallel decreases in adipose tissue reserves. In addition, levels of oxygen consumption and brown adipose tissue uncoupling protein 1 were significantly elevated with POMC treatment in the VTA. Interestingly, tyrosine hydroxylase levels were increased in both the ARC and VTA with POMC overexpression in either the ARC or the VTA. In conclusion, these data indicate a role for POMC overexpression within the VTA reward center to combat HF-induced obesity.
Subcellular effects of myocyte-specific androgen receptor overexpression in mice
Authors: Musa Mutaz , Fernando Shannon M , Chatterjee Diptendu , Monks D Ashley
Published: May 2011

Although androgen receptor (AR) within myocytes is thought to mediate many of the effects of testosterone and other androgens on skeletal muscle, little is known about the functions of AR within these cells. We, therefore, studied the ultrastructure of skeletal muscle of HSA-AR transgenic (Tg) mice that overexpress AR selectively in myocytes and exhibit neuromuscular atrophy. We examined male HSA-AR mice from two different founding lines: L78 (lower copy number and less severe phenotype) and L141 (higher copy number and more severe phenotype) and compared these to wild-type (Wt) brothers. We also examined testosterone-treated female mice from these two lines and compared them both to their Wt sisters and to vehicle-treated controls. Ultrastructural examination of extensor digitorum longus sections using transmission electron microscopy revealed remarkably disorganized myofibrils in male Tg and testosterone-treated female Tg mice. Quantification of ultrastructural pathology indicated reduced myofibril width, hypertrophic and hyperplastic intermyofibrillar mitochondria, and pronounced glycogen accumulation in HSA-AR males of both lines. Reduced myofibrillar width and increases in mitochondrial number, size, and volume density were also observed in testosterone-treated HSA-AR females, although glycogen accumulation was not observed. Structural abnormalities in mitochondria were also associated with increases in electron transport chain activity and systemic resting metabolic rate, indicative of hypermetabolism. We find that overexpression of AR in myocytes of HSA-AR mice results in alterations in myofibrils, mitochondria, and glycogen. Alterations in myofibrils and mitochondria appear to result from acute actions of testosterone, whereas those on glycogen do not. Pathology of myofibrils and/or mitochondria may, therefore, mediate in part the neuromuscular atrophy observed in HSA-AR mice.
Nuclear–cytoplasmic incompatibility and inefficient development of pig–mouse cytoplasmic hybrid embryos
Authors: Amarnath Dasari , Choi Inchul , Moawad Adel R , Wakayama Teruhiko , Campbell Keith H S
Published: May 2011

Inter-species somatic cell nuclear transfer (iSCNT) embryos usually fail to develop to the blastocyst stage and beyond due to incomplete reprogramming of donor cell. We evaluated whether using a karyoplast that would require less extensive reprogramming such as an embryonic blastomere or the meiotic spindle from metaphase II oocytes would provide additional insight into the development of iSCNT embryos. Our results showed that karyoplasts of embryonic or oocyte origin are no different from somatic cells; all iSCNT embryos, irrespective of karyoplast origin, were arrested during early development. We hypothesized that nuclear–cytoplasmic incompatibility could be another reason for failure of embryonic development from iSCNT. We used pig–mouse cytoplasmic hybrids as a model to address nuclear–cytoplasmic incompatibility in iSCNT embryos. Fertilized murine zygotes were reconstructed by fusing with porcine cytoplasts of varying cytoplasmic volumes (1/10 (small) and 1/5 (large) total volume of mouse zygote). The presence of pig cytoplasm significantly reduced the development of mouse zygotes to the blastocyst stage compared with control embryos at 120 h post-human chorionic gondotropin (41 vs 6 vs 94%,P<0.05; 1/10, 1/5, control respectively). While mitochondrial DNA copy numbers remained relatively unchanged, expression of several important genes namelyTfam, Polg, Polg2, Mfn2, Slc2a3 (Glut3), Slc2a1 (Glut1), Bcl2, Hspb1, Pou5f1 (Oct4), Nanog, Cdx2, Gata3,Tcfap2c,mt-Cox1andmt-Cox2was significantly reduced in cytoplasmic hybrids compared with control embryos. These results demonstrate that the presence of even a small amount of porcine cytoplasm is detrimental to murine embryo development and suggest that a range of factors are likely to contribute to the failure of inter-species nuclear transfer embryos.
Clonidine Extended-Release Tablets as Add-on Therapy to Psychostimulants in Children and Adolescents With ADHD
Authors: Kollins Scott H. , Jain Rakesh , Brams Matthew , Segal Scott , Findling Robert L. , Wigal Sharon B. , Khayrallah Moise
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the efficacy and safety of clonidine hydrochloride extended-release tablets (CLON-XR) combined with stimulants (ie, methylphenidate or amphetamine) for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this phase 3, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, children and adolescents with hyperactive- or combined-subtype ADHD who had an inadequate response to their stable stimulant regimen were randomized to receive CLON-XR or placebo in combination with their baseline stimulant medication. Predefined efficacy measures evaluated change from baseline to week 5. Safety was assessed by spontaneously reported adverse events, vital signs, electrocardiogram recordings, and clinical laboratory values. Improvement from baseline for all efficacy measures was evaluated using analysis of covariance.

RESULTS:

Of 198 patients randomized, 102 received CLON-XR plus stimulant and 96 received placebo plus stimulant. At week 5, greater improvement from baseline in ADHD Rating Scale IV (ADHD-RS-IV) total score (95% confidence interval: −7.83 to −1.13; P = .009), ADHD-RS-IV hyperactivity and inattention subscale scores (P = .014 and P = .017, respectively), Conners' Parent Rating Scale scores (P < .062), Clinical Global Impression of Severity (P = .021), Clinical Global Impression of Improvement (P = .006), and Parent Global Assessment (P = .001) was observed in the CLON-XR plus stimulant group versus the placebo plus stimulant group. Adverse events and changes in vital signs in the CLON-XR group were generally mild.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study suggest that CLON-XR in combination with stimulants is useful in reducing ADHD in children and adolescents with partial response to stimulants.
Self-Embedding Behavior: A New Primary Care Challenge
Authors: Bennett Gregory H. , Shiels William E. , Young Adam S. , Lofthouse Nicholas , Mihalov Leslie
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to define self-embedding behavior (SEB), develop a clinical profile of adolescents who engage in SEB, and emphasize the importance of rapid, targeted, and effective identification and intervention.

METHODS:

As part of a retrospective study with a database evaluating 600 patients percutaneously treated for soft-tissue foreign body removal, adolescents were identified with self-embedded soft-tissue foreign bodies. We describe patients' gender, age, and psychiatric diagnoses; SEB age of onset, frequency, and self-reported reasons; and the number, type, location of, and removal technique for objects.

RESULTS:

Eleven patients (9 females) who engaged in SEB were identified. Ten of the 11 patients were members of a group home or psychiatric facility at the time they engaged in SEB. All patients had previous and multiple psychiatric diagnoses. SEB mean age-of-onset was 16 years, and mean number of SEB episodes per patient was 1.9. The most common self-reported purpose for SEB was suicidal ideation (6 of 8 [75%]) versus nonsuicidal ideation (2 of 8 [25%]), with 3 cases lacking this documentation. The mean number of objects embedded in a single episode was 2.4, usually composed of metal and embedded in the arm. Seventy-six foreign bodies were percutaneously removed (using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance), including metal, glass, wood, plastic, graphite, and crayon.

CONCLUSIONS:

SEB is an extreme form of self-injury requiring aggressive and timely interdisciplinary assessment and treatment. An understanding of SEB allows medical professionals to pursue rapid, targeted, and effective intervention to interrupt the cycle of self-harm and institute appropriate long-term therapy.
Preterm Birth and Inhaled Corticosteroid Use in 6- to 19-Year-Olds: A Swedish National Cohort Study
Authors: Vogt Hartmut , Lindström Karolina , Bråbäck Lennart , Hjern Anders
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Preterm birth is associated with respiratory morbidity later in life, including asthma. Previous studies have mainly focused on asthma in early childhood in children born extremely preterm. In this study, we examined the risk of asthma in a national cohort of schoolchildren grouped according to degree of immaturity expressed as completed gestational weeks at birth.

METHODS:

This was a register study in a Swedish national cohort of 1 100 826 children 6 to 19 years old. Retrieval of at least 1 prescription of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) during 2006 was used as the main indicator for asthma. Logistic regression was used to test hypotheses, with adjustment for multiple socioeconomic and perinatal indicators.

RESULTS:

Degree of immaturity, expressed as completed gestational weeks at birth, had an inverse dose-response relationship with ICS use. Compared with children born between 39 and 41 weeks' gestation, the odds ratio for ICS use increased with the degree of prematurity, from 1.10 (95% confidence interval: 1.08–1.13) for children born in weeks 37 to 38, to 2.28 (95% confidence interval: 1.96–2.64) for children born in weeks 23 to 28, after adjustment for confounders. The increase in ICS use with decreasing gestational age at delivery was similar in boys and girls, and declined with older age.

CONCLUSION:

Preterm birth increased the risk of ICS use in these 6- to 19-year-olds by degree of immaturity, from extremely preterm to early term birth.
Long-term Impact of Poor Birth Condition on Social and Economic Outcomes in Early Adulthood
Authors: Odd David Edward , Gunnell David , Lewis Glyn , Rasmussen Finn
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to investigate the association of poor birth condition with long-term social and economic outcomes at 25 to 31 years of age.

METHODS:

This was a population-based cohort study using data derived from linkage of routinely collected Swedish data. All term infants born in Sweden between 1973 and 1979 identified from the Swedish birth registry (n = 651 615) were included in the study. Infants were categorized into 3 groups: (1) infants with a normal (>7) Apgar score at 1 or 5 minutes of age without encephalopathy; (2) infants with a low (<7) Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes of age without encephalopathy; and (3) infants with a low (<7) Apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes with evidence of encephalopathy. The main outcome measures were achievement of a university education and participant's income in early adulthood.

RESULTS:

Infants with low Apgar scores who did not develop encephalopathy were less likely to have attended university (odds ratio [OR]: 1.14 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05–1.23]) and were more likely to have no income from work (OR: 1.19 [95% CI: 1.07–1.32]) than those born in good condition. Infants who developed encephalopathy also had greater risks of these adverse outcomes (not attended university, OR: 1.94 [95% CI: 1.13–3.33]); no income from work, OR: 3.08 [95% CI: 1.89–5.01]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Infants born in poor condition had worse measures of social performance than their peers, and this association was not restricted to those infants who developed obvious neurologic symptoms in the neonatal period. However, even in infants with likely encephalopathy, more than half obtained employment and one third attended university.
Preoperative Chemotherapy for Operable Breast Cancer Improves Surgical Outcomes in the Community Hospital Setting
Authors: Komenaka Ian K. , Hibbard Michael L. , Hsu Chiu-Hsieh , Low Boo Ghee , Salganick Jason A. , Bouton Marcia E. , Jha Chandra
Published: May 2011

Background.

Preoperative chemotherapy (PC) for operable breast cancer has demonstrated significant benefits in clinical trials. Many patients are treated in the community setting and some may question the applicability of PC outside the university setting. The potential benefits of PC in terms of surgical outcomes in a community practice were examined.

Methods.

A retrospective review was performed of stage II and stage IIIA breast cancer patients from January 1, 2002 to July 31, 2009. Surgical outcomes of margin status, volume of lumpectomy, rate of lumpectomy, and re-excision lumpectomy were evaluated.

Results.

There were 212 patients included. Seventy-nine percent of patients who underwent PC had a clinical response and 25% had a pathologic complete response. For clinical stage T2 and stage T3 tumors, the PC group underwent lumpectomy more often than patients in the adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) group (78% versus 50%; p = .016 and 60% versus 29%; p = .015, respectively). The rate of close or positive margins in the PC group was half the rate in the AC group (23% versus 46%; p = .04) and this resulted in fewer re-excisions (p = .01). The volume of tissue removed was also smaller in the PC group (143.6 cm3 versus 273.9 cm3; p = .003).

Conclusions.

PC for operable breast cancer can significantly improve surgical outcomes in community-based practice.
Gender-Specific Acute Organ Toxicity during Intensified Preoperative Radiochemotherapy for Rectal Cancer
Authors: Wolff Hendrik A. , Conradi Lena-Christin , Schirmer Markus , Beissbarth Tim , Sprenger Thilo , Rave-Fränk Margret , Hennies Steffen , Hess Clemens F. , Becker Heinz , Christiansen Hans , Liersch Torsten
Published: May 2011

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe present strategies of treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer and ongoing clinical trials, including neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy with 50.4 Gy and concomitant 5-FU +/− oxaliplatin.Define the basic clinical parameters, with special emphasis on gender and BMI, correlating with radiochemotherapy-associated side effects in rectal cancer patients and differences in severity of toxicity.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (cUICC stages II/III) are typically treated with preoperative 5-fluorouracil–based (5-FU–based) radiochemotherapy (RCT). However, trials are currently being conducted to improve the complete remission rates and the systemic control by combining 5-FU with oxaliplatin. The primary objective was to identify the subgroups of rectal cancer patients who were at risk for high-grade toxicity.

All 196 patients who were included in the present study were treated with 50.4 Gy and chemotherapy that included either 5-FU (n = 115) or 5-FU+oxaliplatin (n = 81). The preoperative RCT was followed by a total mesorectal excision and adjuvant chemotherapy. Acute toxicity was monitored weekly and a toxicity grade ≥3 (Common Toxicity Criteria) for a skin reaction, cystitis, proctitis, or enteritis was defined as high-grade acute organ toxicity. After RCT with 5-FU+oxaliplatin, complete tumor remission was achieved in 13.6% of the patients and in 11.3% after RCT with 5-FU alone.

Complete irradiation dosages of 50.4 Gy were given to 99% (5-FU) and 95% (5-FU+oxaliplatin) of the patients. Concomitant chemotherapy was fully administered in 95% of the patients treated with 5-FU compared with the 84% of patients treated with 5-FU+oxaliplatin.

A significantly higher proportion of acute organ toxicity was found in the patients who were treated with 5-FU+oxaliplatin compared with those who were treated with 5-FU. Additionally, women with a low body mass index were at the highest risk for acute organ toxicity.

These results suggest that there are basic clinical parameters, such as gender and body mass index, that may be potential markers for generating individual risk profiles of RCT-induced toxicity.
Structure and Functions of State Public Health Agencies in 2007
Authors: Madamala Kusuma , Sellers Katie , Beitsch Leslie M. , Pearsol Jim , Jarris Paul E.
Published: May 2011

We sought to document the structure and functions of state public health agencies throughout the United States in 2007 and compare findings with those from a similar 2001 assessment.

In 2007 a survey of the structure and functions of state public health agencies was sent to and completed by senior deputies in all 50 states and the District of Columbia (a 100% response rate).

The results of the survey showed that all emerging practice areas in 2001 had expanded by 2007. Also, state health departments generally had greater levels of responsibility in 2007 than they did in 2001, emphasizing the need for continued support of governmental public health systems and research on the operations of those systems.
US Attitudes About Banning Menthol in Cigarettes: Results From a Nationally Representative Survey
Authors: Winickoff Jonathan P. , McMillen Robert C. , Vallone Donna M. , Pearson Jennifer L. , Tanski Susanne E. , Dempsey Janelle H. , Cheryl Healton  , Klein Jonathan D. , David Abrams
Published: May 2011

Menthol is a cigarette flavoring that makes smoking more appealing to smokers. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory authority to ban mentholated cigarettes to reduce youth uptake and encourage adult cessation. Survey findings indicate that more than half of all Americans (56.1%) and of Blacks alone (68.0% in one sample and 75.8% in another) support banning menthol. Endorsement of a ban—especially by Blacks, who have the highest rates of menthol cigarette use—would support FDA action to ban menthol to protect the public's health.
Smoking Cessation Behavior Among Intermittent Smokers Versus Daily Smokers
Authors: Tindle Hilary A. , Shiffman Saul
Published: May 2011

Nondaily intermittent smokers (ITS) are common, but their cessation behavior remains elusive. We examined cessation of native-ITS (n = 2040), converted-ITS (n = 1808), and daily smokers (DS; n = 25 344). All ITS were more likely than were DS to make a quit attempt (native-ITS adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.42, 1.80; converted-ITS AOR = 3.33, 95% CI = 2.93, 3.78). Native-ITS (18%) and converted-ITS (27%) were more likely than were DS (13%) to quit smoking (native-ITS AOR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.07, 1.67; converted-ITS AOR = 2.36, 95% CI = 2.01, 2.78), but the low cessation rates of ITS challenge their nonaddicted status.
Media Literacy Pedagogy: Critical and New/Twenty-First-Century Literacies Instruction
Authors: Westbrook Nalova
Published: May 2011

This article offers a conceptualization of media literacy pedagogy in light of National Education Technology Plan efforts, which name teaching as one of five essential areas to build an education system that can increase as well as sustain the United States' economic growth and prosperity in the global economy. In particular, two distinct forms – critical media literacy, with origins in the Frankfurt and cultural studies tradition, and new/twenty-first-century literacies instruction, the result of socio-linguistic and ethnographic traditions – can be evaluated from Fenstermacher & Richardson's quality in teaching model that includes assessment based on the process-product paradigm, cognitive science, and constructivism. This article concludes that, while all three of these research programs may help to gauge media literacy models of pedagogy in general, constructivism, and to a lesser extent cognitive science, may be the most appropriate paradigms.
Reproducibility of landmark identification in the jaw and teeth on 3-dimensional cone-beam computed tomography images
Authors: Fuyamada Mariko , Nawa Hiroyuki , Shibata Momoko , Yoshida Kazuhito , Kise Yoshitaka , Katsumata Akitoshi , Ariji Eiichiro , Goto Shigemi
Published: May 2011

Objective:

To compare the reproducibility of landmark identification on three-dimensional (3D) cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images between procedures based on traditional cephalometric definitions (procedure 1) and those tentatively proposed for 3D images (procedure 2).

Materials and Methods:

A phantom with embedded dried human skull was scanned using CBCT. The acquired volume data were transferred to a personal computer, and 3D images were reconstructed. Eighteen dentists plotted nine landmarks related to the jaws and teeth four times: menton (Me), pogonion (Po), upper-1 (U1), lower-1 (L1), left upper-6 (U6), left lower-6 (L6), gonion (Go), condyle (Cd), and coronoid process (Cp). The plotting reliabilities of the two procedures were compared by calculating standard deviations (SDs) in three components (x, y, and z) of coordinates and volumes of 95% confidence ellipsoid.

Results:

All 27 SDs for procedure 2 were less than 1 mm, and only five of them exceeded 0.5 mm. The variations were significantly different between the two procedures, and the SDs of procedure 2 were smaller than those of procedure 1 in 21 components of coordinates. The ellipsoid volumes were also smaller for procedure 2 than procedure 1, although a significant difference was not found.

Conclusions:

Definitions determined strictly on each three sectional images, such as for procedure 2, were required for sufficient reliability in identifying the landmark related to the jaws and teeth.
Challenges of Laboratory Medicine: European Answers
Authors: Korita Irena , Blaton Victor
Published: May 2011

Challenges of Laboratory Medicine: European Answers

Medical laboratories play a vital role in modern healthcare, and qualified specialists in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine are essential for the provision of high-quality preanalytical, analytical and consultative services. Laboratory medicine has undergone major transformations during the last decade. Ongoing technological developments have considerably improved the productivity of clinical laboratories. Information on laboratory services is globally available, and clinical laboratories worldwide face international competition and there is a huge pressure to reduce costs. To be prepared for the future, clinical laboratories should enhance efficiency and reduce the cost increases by forming alliances and networks, consolidating, integrating or outsourcing, and more importantly create additional value by providing knowledge services related toin vitrodiagnostics. Therefore, business models that increase efficiency such as horizontal and vertical integration are proposed, based on collaborative networks for the delivery of clinical laboratory services. Laboratories should cooperate, consolidate and form strategic alliances to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. There is a growing conflict between the science and the art of clinical practice and on the role of the biomedical sciences in medical practice. We have a dehumanizing effect on medical care. Disease is defined at the level of sick molecules and cells and curative medicine is being replaced by the preventive care of the disease. Undoubtedly all those questions will raise considerable problems and challenges for the medical educators.
Antioxidative Enzyme Activities and Lipid Peroxidation in Children with Inflammatory Endothelial Injury
Authors: Stanković Tatjana , Đorđević Vidosava , Kamenov Borislav , Stamenković Hristina , Ćosić Vladan , Milićević Radovan , Slavić Vjeroslava
Published: May 2011

Antioxidative Enzyme Activities and Lipid Peroxidation in Children with Inflammatory Endothelial Injury

During the inflammatory process endothelial cells are activated and a proadherent ability is assumed. The synthesis of reactive oxygen metabolites, which follows the immunological processes, can cause oxidative damage to endothelial cells leading to the clinical expression of disease including a variety of skin manifestations. In this study the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and the malondialdehyde concentration were examined in 36 children with inflammation-mediated damage to microvascular endothelial cells. On the basis of clinical manifestations the studied children were divided into 4 groups (1st group-macular skin manifestations, 2nd group-maculo-papular skin manifestations, 3rd group-papular skin manifestations, 4th group- erythematous skin manifestations). All the examined children showed symptoms of inflammation (mainly respiratory tract infections) with leukocytosis and monocytosis before actual skin manifestations took place. Superoxide dismutase activity was significantly decreased in three groups of patients, except in the group with erythematous skin manifestations. Catalase activity was significantly increased in all the groups compared to the control group. The values of malondialdehyde were significantly increased in the groups of children with maculo-papular and erythematous skin manifestations. The results have confirmed the presence of a changed antioxidant enzyme pattern indicating oxidative stress during inflammatory endothelial cells injury. Malondialdehyde was not an adequate parameter in its evaluation.
Ownership Transformations of State-owned Enterprises with Special Consideration of Direct Privatisation in Poland in the Years 2004-2008
Authors: Papiernik-Wojdera Marzena , Matuszewska-Pierzynka Agnieszka
Published: May 2011

The main goal of this article is defining the present state of the process of ownership transformations in Polish state-owned enterprises and progress in this process during the last five years. The main research hypothesis formulated in the article was verified by means of an analysis of data published by the Central Statistical Office concerning the number of state-owned enterprises covered by ownership transformations. The accepted scope of this article encompassed: concepts, objectives and methods of ownership transformation in Polish state-owned enterprises, as well as different issues connected with direct privatization by means of passing state-owned enterprises for use against payment to employee-owned companies.
Additions to the lichen flora of Victoria Land, Antarctica
Authors: Smykla Jerzy , Krzewicka Beata , Wilk Karina , Emslie Steven , Śliwa Lucyna
Published: May 2011

Additions to the lichen flora of Victoria Land, Antarctica

Lichens of relict penguin colonies and sites affected by active penguin colonies were investigated in Victoria Land, Ross Sea sector, continental Antarctica. A total of 17 coastal sites, seven in northern and ten in southern Victoria Land, have been investigated across 7° of latitude from 71° to 78°S. Altogether 40 taxa of lichens have been identified. Four of the recorded species are new to the Antarctic - Caloplaca erecta, C. soropelta, C. tominii and Physcia tenella; two species are new to the Victoria Land area - Lecania nylanderiana and Lecanora polytropa. The first lichen records from Beaufort Island are also provided. Data presented here expand the knowledge on the occurrence, diversity and distribution of Victoria Land lichens.
Multimodal Likelihoods in Educational Assessment
Authors: Wothke Werner , Burket George , Chen Li-Sue , Gao Furong , Shu Lianghua , Chia Mike
Published: May 2011

It has been known for some time that item response theory (IRT) models may exhibit a likelihood function of a respondent’s ability which may have multiple modes, flat modes, or both. These conditions, often associated with guessing of multiple-choice (MC) questions, can introduce uncertainty and bias to ability estimation by maximum likelihood (ML) when standard Newton solutions are used. This article evaluates the performance of several maximization methods, including initial (grid) searches probing the function slopes, simulated annealing, exhaustive likelihood evaluation, and the standard Newton algorithm. In extensive studies, involving several million records of both generated and real data, the algorithms were evaluated with respect to precision and speed. Two methods, exhaustive search and grid search, followed by Newton steps, all yielded ML estimates at the required precision. At today’s computer speeds, either of these algorithms may be considered for high-volume response pattern scoring.
Mobile Phones Bridging the Digital Divide for Teens in the US?
Authors: Brown Katie , Campbell Scott W. , Ling Rich
Published: May 2011

In 2009, just 27% of American teens with mobile phones reported using their devices to access the internet. However, teens from lower income families and minority teens were significantly more likely to use their phones to go online. Together, these surprising trends suggest a potential narrowing of the digital divide, offering internet access to those without other means of going online. This is an important move, as, in today’s society, internet access is central to active citizenship in general and teen citizenship in particular. Yet the cost of this move toward equal access is absorbed by those who can least afford it: Teenagers from low income households. Using survey and focus group data from a national study of “Teens and Mobile Phone Use” (released by Pew and the University of Michigan in 2010), this article helps identify and explain this and other emergent trends for teen use (as well as non-use) of the internet through mobile phones.
Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Anthocyanins from Mulberry, Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Zou Tang-Bin , Wang Min , Gan Ren-You , Ling Wen-Hua
Published: May 2011

Mulberry is one of the most widely used traditional Chinese medicines. Anthocyanins are the main bioactive components of mulberry, and possess important biological activities, such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This study investigated the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of anthocyanins from mulberry by using response surface methodology (RSM). The extraction conditions associated with anthocyanin yield, including extraction solvent, liquid-to-solid rate, temperature and extraction time, are discussed. The optimal conditions obtained by RSM for UAE from mulberry include 63.8% methanol contains 1% (v/v) trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), 43.2 °C temperature, 23.8 (v/w) liquid-to-solid ratio, and 40 min time for the maximum yield (64.70 ± 0.45 mg/g). The results indicated that the UAE can be an effective method for the extraction of some active components from plant materials.
Balticolid: A New 12-Membered Macrolide with Antiviral Activity from an Ascomycetous Fungus of Marine Origin
Authors: Shushni Muftah A. M. , Singh Rajinder , Mentel Renate , Lindequist Ulrike
Published: May 2011

A new 12-membered macrolide, balticolid (1) was isolated from the EtOAc extract of the culture broth of fungal strain 222 belonging to the Ascomycota, which was found on driftwood collected from the coast of the Greifswalder Bodden, Baltic Sea, Germany. The structure of balticolid was determined to be (3R,11R), (4E,8E)-3-hydroxy-11-methyloxacyclododeca-4,8-diene-1,7-dione using extensive spectral data as well as the modified Mosher ester method. Balticolid (1) displayed anti-HSV-1 activity with an IC50 value of 0.45 µM.
Anti-Proliferative Activity of Meroditerpenoids Isolated from the Brown Alga Stypopodium flabelliforme against Several Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Pereira David M. , Cheel Jose , Areche Carlos , San-Martin Aurelio , Rovirosa Juana , Silva Luis R. , Valentao Patricia , Andrade Paula B.
Published: May 2011

The sea constitutes one of the most promising sources of novel compounds with potential application in human therapeutics. In particular, algae have proved to be an interesting source of new bioactive compounds. In this work, six meroditerpenoids (epitaondiol, epitaondiol diacetate, epitaondiol monoacetate, stypotriol triacetate, 14-ketostypodiol diacetate and stypodiol) isolated from the brown alga Stypopodium flabelliforme were tested for their cell proliferation inhibitory activity in five cell lines. Cell lines tested included human colon adenocarcinoma (Caco-2), human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y), rat basophilic leukemia (RBL-2H3), murine macrophages (RAW.267) and Chinese hamster fibroblasts (V79). Antimicrobial activity of the compounds was also evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Proteus mirabilis, Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis and Micrococcus luteus. Overall, the compounds showed good activity against all cell lines, with SH-SY5Y and RAW.267 being the most susceptible. Antimicrobial capacity was observed for epitaondiol monoacetate, stypotriol triacetate and stypodiol, with the first being the most active. The results suggest that these molecules deserve further studies in order to evaluate their potential as therapeutic agents.
Effects of Thai Medicinal Herb Extracts with Anti-Psoriatic Activity on the Expression on NF-κB Signaling Biomarkers in HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Saelee Chanachai , Thongrakard Visa , Tencomnao Tewin
Published: May 2011

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by rapid proliferation of keratinocytes and incomplete keratinization. Discovery of safer and more effective anti-psoriatic drugs remains an area of active research at the present time. Using a HaCaT keratinocyte cell line as an in vitro model, we had previously found that ethanolic extracts from three Thai medicinal herbs, namely Alpinia galanga, Curcuma longa and Annona squamosa, possessed anti-psoriatic activity. In the current study, we aimed at investigating if these Thai medicinal herb extracts played a molecular role in suppressing psoriasis via regulation of NF-κB signaling biomarkers. Using semi-quantitative RT-PCR and report gene assays, we analyzed the effects of these potential herbal extracts on 10 different genes of the NF-κB signaling network in HaCaT cells. In accordance with our hypothesis, we found that the extract derived from Alpinia galanga significantly increased the expression of TNFAIP3 and significantly reduced the expression of CSF-1 and NF-kB2. Curcuma longa extract significantly decreased the expression of CSF-1, IL-8, NF-kB2, NF-kB1 and RelA, while Annona squamosa extract significantly lowered the expression of CD40 and NF-kB1. Therefore, this in vitro study suggested that these herbal extracts capable of functioning against psoriasis, might exert their activity by controlling the expression of NF-κB signaling biomarkers.
Synthesis of Glycosides of Glucuronic, Galacturonic and Mannuronic Acids: An Overview
Authors: Wadouachi Anne , Kovensky José
Published: May 2011

Uronic acids are carbohydrates present in relevant biologically active compounds. Most of the latter are glycosides or oligosaccharides linked by their anomeric carbon, so their synthesis requires glycoside-bond formation. The activation of this anomeric center remains difficult due to the presence of the electron-withdrawing C-5 carboxylic group. Herein we present an overview of glucuronidation, mannuronidation and galacturonidation reactions, including syntheses of prodrugs, oligosaccharides and stereochemical aspects.
Botulinum Neurotoxins and Botulism: A Novel Therapeutic Approach
Authors: Thanongsaksrikul Jeeraphong , Chaicumpa Wanpen
Published: May 2011

Specific treatment is not available for human botulism. Current remedial mainstay is the passive administration of polyclonal antibody to botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) derived from heterologous species (immunized animal or mouse hybridoma) together with supportive and symptomatic management. The antibody works extracellularly, probably by blocking the binding of receptor binding (R) domain to the neuronal receptors; thus inhibiting cellular entry of the holo-BoNT. The antibody cannot neutralize the intracellular toxin. Moreover, a conventional antibody with relatively large molecular size (150 kDa) is not accessible to the enzymatic groove and, thus, cannot directly inhibit the BoNT zinc metalloprotease activity. Recently, a 15–20 kDa single domain antibody (VHH) that binds specifically to light chain of BoNT serotype A was produced from a humanized-camel VH/VHH phage display library. The VHH has high sequence homology (>80%) to the human VH and could block the enzymatic activity of the BoNT. Molecular docking revealed not only the interface binding between the VHH and the toxin but also an insertion of the VHH CDR3 into the toxin enzymatic pocket. It is envisaged that, by molecular linking the VHH to a cell penetrating peptide (CPP), the CPP-VHH fusion protein would be able to traverse the hydrophobic cell membrane into the cytoplasm and inhibit the intracellular BoNT. This presents a novel and safe immunotherapeutic strategy for botulism by using a cell penetrating, humanized-single domain antibody that inhibits the BoNT by means of a direct blockade of the groove of the menace enzyme.
Alpha-Latrotoxin Rescues SNAP-25 from BoNT/A-Mediated Proteolysis in Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neurons
Authors: Mesngon Mariano , McNutt Patrick
Published: May 2011

The botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) exhibit zinc-dependent proteolytic activity against members of the core synaptic membrane fusion complex, preventing neurotransmitter release and resulting in neuromuscular paralysis. No pharmacologic therapies have been identified that clinically relieve botulinum poisoning. The black widow spider venom α-latrotoxin (LTX) has the potential to attenuate the severity or duration of BoNT-induced paralysis in neurons via the induction of synaptic degeneration and remodeling. The potential for LTX to antagonize botulinum poisoning was evaluated in embryonic stem cell-derived neurons (ESNs), using a novel screening assay designed around the kinetics of BoNT/A activation. Exposure of ESNs to 400 pM LTX for 6.5 or 13 min resulted in the nearly complete restoration of uncleaved SNAP-25 within 48 h, whereas treatment with 60 mM K+ had no effect. Time-lapse imaging demonstrated that LTX treatment caused a profound increase in Ca2+ influx and evidence of excitotoxicity, though ESNs remained viable 48 h after LTX treatment. This is the first instance of a cell-based treatment that has shown the ability to eliminate BoNT activity. These data suggest that LTX treatment may provide the basis for a new class of therapeutic approach to BoNT intoxication and may contribute to an improved understanding of long-term mechanisms of BoNT intoxication and recovery. They further demonstrate that ESNs are a novel, responsive and biologically relevant model for LTX research and BoNT therapeutic drug discovery.
THE ANALYSIS OF SUSTAINABLE CITY ATTRIBUTES
Authors: Narijauskas Robertas , Banaitienė Nerija
Published: May 2011

The article analyzes and summarizes the attributes of a sustainable city and discusses the issues of urban economic, social and environmental sustainability. The paper examines how changes in sustainability indicators can affect the choice of city population and lifestyle. A theoretical model of a sustainable city is presented.
A COMPARISON OF METHODS USED FOR FIRE SAFETY EVALUATION
Authors: Šakėnaitė Jurgita
Published: May 2011

https://journals.vgtu.lt/index.php/MLA/article/view/10219
THE INFLUENCE OF GRANITE SIFTINGS ON THE PROPERTIES OF CLEAVED SURFACE EXTERIOR CONCRETE BRICKS
Authors: Tumosa Mindaugas , Daukšys Mindaugas , Ivanauskas Ernestas
Published: May 2011

Research deals with granite siftings as fine aggregate possibilities to be used for manufacturing cleaved surface exterior concrete bricks. The article describes the influence of granite siftings on the technological properties of concrete mixture and on the physical mechanical properties of cleaved surface exterior concrete bricks formed using these mixtures and forecasts product durability. The following several compositions of concrete mixture for producing exterior concrete bricks are composed: using only 0/4 fraction sand (B1) as a fine aggregate, using only 0/2 fraction granite siftings (B2), and 50% of 0/4 fraction sand replacing with 0/2 fraction granite siftings (B3) depending on the volume. The products were formed in metal moulds; at a later stage, they were cleaved in half. The technological properties of concrete mixture and the physical mechanical properties of cleaved surface exterior concrete bricks formed using the above introduced mixtures were tested forecasting product durability. The results of the conducted research reveal that due to the properly selected ratio between sand and granite siftings in the fine aggregate, granite siftings may be used for manufacturing cleaved surface exterior concrete bricks.
THE DEPENDENCE OF THE PHYSICAL MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF EXPANDED-CLAY LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE ON THE COMPOSITION
Authors: Vaičienė Marija , Malaiškienė Jurgita
Published: May 2011

Binder material is the most expensive raw component of concrete; thus, scientists are looking for cheaper substitute materials. This paper shows that when manufacturing, a part of the binder material of expanded-clay lightweight concrete can be replaced with active filler. The conducted studies show that technogenic – catalyst waste could act as similar filler. The study also includes the dependence of the physical and mechanical properties of expanded-clay lightweight concrete on the concrete mixture and the chemical composition of the samples obtained. Different formation and composition mixtures of expanded-clay lightweight concrete were chosen to determine the properties of physical-mechanical properties such as density, water absorption and compressive strength.
OPTIMIZATION OF TRUSS HEIGHT
Authors: Ulitinas Tomas , Kalanta Stanislovas
Published: May 2011

The article analyzes the task in truss height and in the optimization of the cross-sections of their elements. Element cross-sections are designed of steel profiles considering requirements for strength, stability and rigidity. A mathematical model is formulated as a nonlinear mathematical programming problem. It is solved as an iterative process, using mathematical software package “MATLAB” routine “fmincon”. The ratio of buckling is corrected in the each iteration. Optimization results are compared with those obtained applying software package “Robot Millennium”.
THE ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH ON PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK FACTORS IN LITHUANIAN COMPANIES
Authors: Urnikytė Laura , Kaminskas Kazys A.
Published: May 2011

Psychosocial risk factors are quite hard to identify and analyze, as such work needs special knowledge and practice. Difficulties may appear as many concepts of psychosocial risk factors are hardly defined exactly and depend on a subjective perception of employee’s workplace environment. Different questionnaires, e.g. a questionnaire assessing stress at work, are created to identify psychosocial risk factors. The main purpose of each questionnaire is slightly different but simultaneously remains the same, i.e. to define stress level at work environment. Although, this kind of research has been conducted in other countries for quite a long time, however, in Lithuania, similar practice faces only first steps. The paper proposes an overview of research conducted in 19 companies in Lithuania. 245 respondents were involved in completing 4 questionnaires. The survey has revealed that the most contributory factor of stress appearance is the age and experience of workers. Female rather than male respondents feel stressed; the surveyed participants having higher education feel more affected by stress than those having other than higher education. Moreover, different questionnaires have revealed the existence of much the same problems.