bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of AtmosphericCO2Enrichment on SoilCO2Efflux in a Young Longleaf Pine System
Authors: Runion G. Brett , Butnor J. R. , Prior S. A. , Mitchell R. J. , Rogers H. H.
Published: March 2012

The southeastern landscape is composed of agricultural and forest systems that can store carbon (C) in standing biomass and soil. Research is needed to quantify the effects of elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) on terrestrial C dynamics including CO2release back to the atmosphere and soil sequestration. Longleaf pine savannahs are an ecologically and economically important, yet understudied, component of the southeastern landscape. We investigated the effects of ambient and elevated CO2on soil CO2efflux in a young longleaf pine system using a continuous monitoring system. A significant increase (26.5%) in soil CO2efflux across 90 days was observed under elevated CO2; this occurred for all weekly and daily averages except for two days when soil temperature was the lowest. Soil CO2efflux was positively correlated with soil temperature with a trend towards increased efflux response to temperature under elevated CO2. Efflux was negatively correlated with soil moisture and was best represented using a quadratic relationship. Soil CO2efflux was not correlated with root biomass. Our data indicate that, while elevated CO2will increase feedback of CO2to the atmosphere via soil efflux, terrestrial ecosystems will remain potential sinks for atmospheric CO2due to greater biomass production and increased soil C sequestration.
Light-Driven Preparation, Microstructure, and Visible-Light Photocatalytic Property of Porous Carbon-Doped TiO2
Authors: Zou Xiao-Xin , Li Guo-Dong , Zhao Jun , Su Juan , Wei Xiao , Wang Kai-Xue , Wang Yu-Ning , Chen Jie-Sheng
Published: March 2012

Highly porous carbon-doped TiO2(C-TiO2) has been prepared, for the first time, through a light-driven approach using crystalline titanium glycolate (TG) as the single-source precursor. Although the nonthermally prepared porous C-TiO2is amorphous, it shows a remarkable visible-light photocatalytic activity higher than that of nitrogen-doped TiO2(N-TiO2) due to its significant surface area (530 m2/g) and pore-rich structure. X-ray photoelectron, electron paramagnetic resonance, and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy reveal that the as-prepared porous C-TiO2photocatalyst contains Ti–O–C bonds which result in visible-light absorption of the material at wavelengths less than 550 nm. Furthermore, it is discovered that the Ti–O–C bonds in the as-prepared C-TiO2is easily transformed to coke-type species under mild thermal treatment (200°C). The resulting coke-containing porous TiO2is an even better visible-light photocatalyst, almost twice as effective as N-TiO2, because of its stronger visible-light absorption. The Ti–O–C and the coke-containing porous TiO2materials follow two different mechanisms in the visible-light photocatalysis process for degradation of methylene blue.
Exploiting the Burstiness of Intermediate-Quality Wireless Links
Authors: Alizai Muhammad Hamad , Landsiedel Olaf , Wehrle Klaus
Published: March 2012

We address the challenge of link estimation and routing over highly dynamic links, thats is, bursty links that rapidly shift between reliable and unreliable periods of transmissions. Based on significant empirical evidence of over 100,000 transmissions over each link in 802.15.4 and 802.11 testbeds, we propose two metrics, expected future transmissions (EFT) and MAC3, for runtime estimation of bursty wireless links. We introduce a bursty link estimator (BLE) that based on these two metrics, accurately estimates bursty links in the network rendering them available for data transmissions. Finally, we present bursty routing extensions (BRE): an adaptive routing strategy that uses BLE for forwarding packets over bursty links if they offer better routing progress than long-term stable links. Our evaluation, comprising experimental data from widely used IEEE 802.15.4-based testbeds, reveals an average of 19% and a maximum of 42% reduction in the number of transmissions when routing over long-range bursty links typically ignored by routing protocols. Additionally, we show that both BLE and BRE are not tied to any specific routing protocol and integrate seamlessly with existing routing protocols and link estimators.
Vaxjo: A Web-Based Vaccine Adjuvant Database and Its Application for Analysis of Vaccine Adjuvants and Their Uses in Vaccine Development
Authors: Sayers Samantha , Ulysse Guerlain , Xiang Zuoshuang , He Yongqun
Published: March 2012

Vaccine adjuvants are compounds that enhance host immune responses to co-administered antigens in vaccines. Vaxjo is a web-based central database and analysis system that curates, stores, and analyzes vaccine adjuvants and their usages in vaccine development. Basic information of a vaccine adjuvant stored in Vaxjo includes adjuvant name, components, structure, appearance, storage, preparation, function, safety, and vaccines that use this adjuvant. Reliable references are curated and cited. Bioinformatics scripts are developed and used to link vaccine adjuvants to different adjuvanted vaccines stored in the general VIOLIN vaccine database. Presently, 103 vaccine adjuvants have been curated in Vaxjo. Among these adjuvants, 98 have been used in 384 vaccines stored in VIOLIN against over 81 pathogens, cancers, or allergies. All these vaccine adjuvants are categorized and analyzed based on adjuvant types, pathogens used, and vaccine types. As a use case study of vaccine adjuvants in infectious disease vaccines, the adjuvants used inBrucellavaccines are specifically analyzed. A user-friendly web query and visualization interface is developed for interactive vaccine adjuvant search. To support data exchange, the information of vaccine adjuvants is stored in the Vaccine Ontology (VO) in the Web Ontology Language (OWL) format.
Reduced Striatal Dopamine Transporters in People with Internet Addiction Disorder
Authors: Hou Haifeng , Jia Shaowe , Hu Shu , Fan Rong , Sun Wen , Sun Taotao , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2012

In recent years, internet addiction disorder (IAD) has become more prevalent worldwide and the recognition of its devastating impact on the users and society has rapidly increased. However, the neurobiological mechanism of IAD has not bee fully expressed. The present study was designed to determine if the striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) levels measured byT99mc-TRODAT-1 single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) brain scans were altered in individuals with IAD. SPECT brain scans were acquired on 5 male IAD subjects and 9 healthy age-matched controls. The volume (V) and weight (W) of bilateral corpus striatum as well as theT99mc-TRODAT-1 uptake ratio of corpus striatum/the whole brain (Ra) were calculated using mathematical models. It was displayed that DAT expression level of striatum was significantly decreased and theV,W, and Ra were greatly reduced in the individuals with IAD compared to controls. Taken together, these results suggest that IAD may cause serious damages to the brain and the neuroimaging findings further illustrate IAD is associated with dysfunctions in the dopaminergic brain systems. Our findings also support the claim that IAD may share similar neurobiological abnormalities with other addictive disorders.
Cross-Reaction between the Crude Hydatid Cyst Fluid Antigens of Human and Animals Origin in Response to Human IgG Class and Subclasses
Authors: Khosravi Afra , Ghafourian Sobhan , Shamsi Morteza , Sadeghifard Nourkhoda , Maleki Abbas , Babaahmadi Ebrahim
Published: March 2012

The current work aimed to evaluate the cross-reactivity of human immune sera against crude hydatid fluid antigens of sheep, human, mouse, cattle, as well as B fraction of cystic fluid antigen. 30 balb/c mice were infected with sheep hydatid cyct fluid antigen containing protoscolex after the viability of these protoscolices was assessed. ANOVA was used to test the difference of themean of optical density (OD) values among case and control groups. The highest human IgG class antibody was against antigen B (0.93) and the lowest against cattle HCF antigen (0.32). The differences between responses to these antigens were statistically significant (P<0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA test used for evaluating the responses of human total IgG to different hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) antigens among the case and control groups were 100 and 95.8%, respectively. Cross-reaction of human IgG class and subclasses responses was found almost for all the antigens with the best reaction against human and cattle (HCF) antigens and antigen B using a ratio of mean OD value to each antigen divided by the cut-off point value for the same antigen. Human sera showed a considerable cross-reactivity against all antigens by using ELISA.
Obatoclax Interacts Synergistically with the Irreversible Proteasome Inhibitor Carfilzomib in GC- and ABC-DLBCL Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Dasmahapatra Girija , Lembersky Dmitry , Son Minkyeong P. , Patel Hiral , Peterson Derick , Attkisson Elisa , Fisher Richard I. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Dent Paul , Grant Steven
Published: March 2012

Interactions between the irreversible proteasome inhibitor carfilzomib and the pan-BH3 mimetic obatoclax were examined in germinal center (GC)- and activated B-cell–diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (ABC-DLBCL) cells. Cotreatment with minimally toxic concentrations of carfilzomib (i.e., 2–6 nmol/L) and subtoxic concentrations of obatoclax (0.05–2.0 μmol/L) synergistically increased apoptosis in multiple DLBCL cell lines and increased lethality toward primary human DLBCL but not normal CD34+ cells. Synergistic interactions were associated with sharp increases in caspase-3 activation, PARP cleavage, p-JNK induction, upregulation of Noxa, and AKT dephosphorylation. Combined treatment also diminished carfilzomib-mediated Mcl-1 upregulation whereas immunoprecipitation analysis revealed reduced associations between Bak and Mcl-1/Bcl-xL and Bim and Mcl-1. The carfilzomib/obatoclax regimen triggered translocation, conformational change, and dimerization of Bax and activation of Bak. Genetic interruption of c-jun-NH2-kinase (JNK) and Noxa by short hairpin RNA knockdown, ectopic Mcl-1 expression, or enforced activation of AKT significantly attenuated carfilzomib/obatoclax-mediated apoptosis. Notably, coadministration of carfilzomib/obatoclax sharply increased apoptosis in multiple bortezomib-resistant DLBCL models. Finally, in vivo administration of carfilzomib and obatoclax to mice inoculated with SUDHL4 cells substantially suppressed tumor growth, activated JNK, inactivated AKT, and increased survival compared with the effects of single-agent treatment. Together, these findings argue that a strategy combining carfilzomib and obatoclax warrants attention in DLBCL. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(5); 1122–32. ©2012 AACR.
Varicella Zoster Virus Infection during Chemotherapy in Solid Cancer Patients
Authors: Kim Seung Tae , Park Kyong Hwa , Oh Sang Cheul , Seo Jae Hong , Shin Sang Won , Kim Jun Suk , Kim Yeul Hong
Published: March 2012

Background: Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection is a representative opportunistic infection in patients with hematological malignancies, with a high incidence of 30–50%. Many studies on the risk factors of VZV infection in this patient group have been conducted. However, few data have been reported exploring VZV infection during systemic chemotherapy in solid cancer patients. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 92 patients diagnosed with VZV infection between April 2001 and July 2010 during systemic chemotherapy for solid tumors. All patients had received antiviral prophylaxis for VZV. Results: The median age at the time of diagnosis of VZV infection was 60.8 years (range 30.1–83.0) and the majority of patients (79.3%) did not have comorbidities. Eighty-one patients (88%) received chemotherapy for locally advanced or metastatic/recurrent disease and 11 (12.0%) had adjuvant chemotherapy after curative resection. Of 92 patients, 14 (15.2%) had non-small cell lung cancer and 10 (10.9%) breast cancer. All patients had a median of 2 metastatic lesions (range 0–4). At the time of diagnosis, 55 patients (59.8%) were receiving first-line chemotherapy and 15 (16.3%) more than third-line chemotherapy. The mean white blood cell, platelet and albumin level was 5,736/µl, 205.7 × 103 and 3.8 mg/dl, respectively. On analysis for disease evaluation at the time nearest to diagnosis of VZV infection, only 14 patients (15.2%) revealed tumor response to chemotherapy. After the diagnosis of VZV infection, all patients were treated with antiviral agents. None of the patients experienced failure of therapy for VZV. Conclusion: We reported VZV infection during systemic chemotherapy in solid cancer patients. Patients may have a relatively poor tumor response to chemotherapy at the time nearest to diagnosis of VZV infection. A prospective or matched controlled trial is needed to confirm this finding.
Increased Y-Chromosome Detection by SRY Duplexing
Authors: Hansen Morten Høgh , Clausen Frederik Banch , Dziegiel Morten Hanefeld
Published: March 2012

Objective: Determining fetal sex noninvasively is dependent of a robust assay. We designed a novel SRY assay and combined it with a SRY assay from literature forming a duplex assay with the same fluorescent dye to increase detection of Y-chromosome at low cell-free fetal DNA or chimeric DNA concentrations. Methods: We analyzed 48 plasma samples from pregnant women in gestational weeks 5–35. Fetal sex was determined by DYS14 and SRY. We also compared 2 monoplex SRY assays with a SRY duplex assay at low DNA concentrations. Results: The DYS14 assay was more sensitive than the SRY assay, but less specific at low cell-free fetal DNA concentrations. We obtained a more sensitive duplex SRY assay with the same specificity as the 2 monoplex assays. Conclusion: The SRY duplex assay improves the SRY detection at low DNA concentration.
Indication for Random Skin Biopsy for the Diagnosis of Intravascular Large B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Higashi Yuko , Kawai Kazuhiro , Yonekura Kentaro , Takeda Koichiro , Kanzaki Tamotsu , Utsunomiya Atae , Kanekura Takuro
Published: March 2012

Background: The use of random skin biopsy (RSB) to diagnose intravascular large B cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) has increased. Objective: To explore the indication for RSB to diagnose IVLBCL. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the medical records of 18 Japanese adults who underwent RSB between January 2008 and December 2009. Results: A final diagnosis of IVLBCL was returned in 2 patients based on RSB findings and in 1 based on brain biopsy findings. All 3 patients manifested neurological symptoms, hematocytopenia, elevated levels of LDH and soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R), and the absence of lymphadenopathy. Malignant lymphoma other than IVLBCL was diagnosed in 6 patients, and in 5 of 6 patients who underwent nodal or parenchymal biopsy diagnostic findings were made. Conclusion: Although RSB is useful for the early diagnosis of IVLBCL, careful selection of patients is necessary. In patients with neurological symptoms, hematocytopenia, elevated LDH and sIL-2R and no nodal involvement, RSB may be useful.
Reassessment of sst3 Somatostatin Receptor Expression in Human Normal and Neoplastic Tissues Using the Novel Rabbit Monoclonal Antibody UMB-5
Authors: Lupp Amelie , Nagel Falko , Doll Christian , Röcken Christoph , Evert Matthias , Mawrin Christian , Saeger Wolfgang , Schulz Stefan
Published: March 2012

Background: Among the five somatostatin receptors (sst1-sst5), the sst3 receptor displays a distinct pharmacological profile. Like sst2, the sst3 receptor efficiently internalizes radiolabeled somatostatin analogs. Unlike sst2, however, internalized sst3 receptors are rapidly transferred to lysosomes for degradation. Apart from this, very little is known about the clinical relevance of the sst3 receptor, which may in part be due to the lack of specific monoclonal sst3 antibodies. Methods: Here, we have extensively characterized the novel rabbit monoclonal anti-human sst3 antibody UMB-5 using transfected cells and receptor-expressing tissues. UMB-5 was then subjected to immunohistochemical staining of a series of 190 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded normal and neoplastic human tissues. Results: Specificity of UMB-5 was demonstrated by detection of a broad band migrating at a molecular weight of 70,000–85,000 in immunoblots from human pituitary. After enzymatic deglycosylation, the size of this band decreased to a molecular weight of 45,000. Tissue immunostaining was completely abolished by pre-adsorption of UMB-5 with its immunizing peptide. In addition, UMB-5 detected distinct cell populations in human tissues like pancreatic islands, anterior pituitary, adrenal cortex, adrenal medulla, and enteric ganglia, similar to that seen with a rabbit polyclonal antibody generated against a different carboxyl-terminal epitope of the sst3 receptor. In a comparative immunohistochemical study, UMB-5 yielded predominant plasma membrane staining in the majority of pituitary adenomas, pheochromocytomas, and a subset of neuroendocrine tumors. The sst3 receptor was also present in many glioblastomas, pancreatic, breast, cervix, and ovarian carcinomas. Conclusion: The rabbit monoclonal antibody UMB-5 may prove of great value in the identification of sst3-expressing tumors during routine histopathological examinations. Given its unique trafficking properties, these tumors may be potential candidates for sst3-directed receptor radiotherapy.
Conduction Remodeling in Human End-Stage Nonischemic Left Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Glukhov Alexey V. , Fedorov Vadim V. , Kalish Paul W. , Ravikumar Vinod K. , Lou Qing , Janks Deborah , Schuessler Richard B. , Moazami Nader , Efimov Igor R.
Published: March 2012

Background—

Several arrhythmogenic mechanisms have been inferred from animal heart failure models. However, the translation of these hypotheses is difficult because of the lack of functional human data. We aimed to investigate the electrophysiological substrate for arrhythmia in human end-stage nonischemic cardiomyopathy.

Methods and Results—

We optically mapped the coronary-perfused left ventricular wedge preparations from human hearts with end-stage nonischemic cardiomyopathy (heart failure, n=10) and nonfailing hearts (NF, n=10). Molecular remodeling was studied with immunostaining, Western blotting, and histological analyses. Heart failure produced heterogeneous prolongation of action potential duration resulting in the decrease of transmural action potential duration dispersion (64±12 ms versus 129±15 ms in NF,
P
<0.005). In the failing hearts, transmural activation was significantly slowed from the endocardium (39±3 cm/s versus 49±2 cm/s in NF,
P
=0.008) to the epicardium (28±3 cm/s versus 40±2 cm/s in NF,
P
=0.008). Conduction slowing was likely due to connexin 43 (Cx43) downregulation, decreased colocalization of Cx43 with N-cadherin (40±2% versus 52±5% in NF,
P
=0.02), and an altered distribution of phosphorylated Cx43 isoforms by the upregulation of the dephosphorylated Cx43 in both the subendocardium and subepicardium layers. Failing hearts further demonstrated spatially discordant conduction velocity alternans which resulted in nonuniform propagation discontinuities and wave breaks conditioned by strands of increased interstitial fibrosis (fibrous tissue content in heart failure 16.4±7.7 versus 9.9±1.4% in NF,
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—

Conduction disorder resulting from the anisotropic downregulation of Cx43 expression, the reduction of Cx43 phosphorylation, and increased fibrosis is likely to be a critical component of arrhythmogenic substrate in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy.
Elastin Degradation Is Associated With Progressive Aortic Stiffening and All-Cause Mortality in Predialysis Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Smith Edward R. , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Ford Martin L. , McMahon Lawrence P. , Rajkumar Chakravarthi , Holt Stephen G.
Published: March 2012

In the large conduit arteries, elastin is important in maintaining vascular compliance. Studies in animal models suggest that elastin degradation may promote arteriosclerotic vascular changes. There is already a well-established link between aortic stiffening and mortality in the general population and in patients undergoing dialysis. Elastin degradation is mediated by several proteases, including matrix metalloproteinase 2 and cathepsin S. Elastin turnover may be inferred by measuring serum levels of elastin-derived peptides. We analyzed the serum concentration of these biomarkers, their endogenous inhibitors, and aortic pulse wave velocity in 200 patients with stages 3 and 4 chronic kidney disease and then serially in a subgroup of 65 patients over 36 months. Serum matrix metalloproteinase 2, cathepsin S, and elastin-derived peptide levels were independently associated with baseline aortic pulse wave velocity and changes in stiffness over the follow-up period. Higher matrix metalloproteinase 2 and elastin-derived peptide levels were also independently associated with preexisting cardiovascular disease. In multivariable Cox regression, higher serum elastin-derived peptide levels were independently associated with increased all-cause mortality (hazard ratio per SD increase=1.78;
P
=0.021). In predialysis chronic kidney disease, elastin degradation is an important determinant of arterial stiffness and is associated with all-cause mortality.
Joshua 13–21 and the Politics of Land Division
Authors: Creach Jerome F. D.
Published: March 2012

Joshua 13–21 makes the remarkable claim that the Lord conquered, possessed, and gave the land as a gift to Israel. Although these chapters likely originated in political concerns of Israelite kings, the theological cast of the material outstrips any political motivations that gave rise to the material. The enduring role of this section of Joshua is to shape a society devoted to and dependent on God.
The God of Joshua…Give or Take the Land
Authors: Brueggemann Walter
Published: March 2012

YHWH, the God of Israel, is not only a character embedded in the plot of the Book of Joshua. YHWH is the chief protagonist and the engine that drives the plot. Even when there are other actors in the plot, notably Joshua, their performances in the plot are at the behest of and in response to the intention of YHWH.
“Are You For Us, or For Our Adversaries?”: A Feminist and Postcolonial Interrogation of Joshua 2–12 for the Contemporary Church
Authors: Sharp Carolyn J.
Published: March 2012

This essay seeks to engage the narrative art of the book of Joshua in ways that may prove valuable for contemporary communities of faith. The argument draws on the feminist and postcolonial critical tradition for defining insights about the construction of the subject, the interrogation of power dynamics, and the reformation of community. The essay then explores Joshua’s representations of authority and its use of liminal moments in Israel’s narrative of conquest in order to suggest possible avenues of appropriation by contemporary readers.
Screening of SLC26A4, FOXI1, KCNJ10, and GJB2 in Bilateral Deafness Patients with Inner Ear Malformation
Authors: Chen Kaitian , Wang Xianren , Sun Liang , Jiang Hongyan
Published: March 2012

Objective

Bilateral nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss associated with inner ear malformation is closely related to genetics. SLC26A4 is considered to be the major involved gene. Recently, FOXI1 and KCNJ10 mutations have been linked to enlarged vestibular aqueducts and GJB2 mutations linked to temporal bone malformation. The authors aimed to investigate the mutation spectrums of these genes in Chinese patients with bilateral hearing impairment associated with inner ear malformation.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Affiliated hospital of the university.

Subjects and Methods

The authors analyzed the GJB2, SLC26A4, FOXI1, and KCNJ10 gene sequences in 43 patients presenting with bilateral hearing impairment associated with inner ear malformation using pyrosequencing and direct DNA sequencing.

Results

In total, 74.4% (32/43) of patients carried at least 1 of 14 pathogenic SLC26A4 mutations, including 6 novel mutations and 4 polymorphisms. Patients with enlarged vestibular aqueducts had a higher rate of SLC26A4 mutation than Mondini dysplasia patients. No FOXI1 or KCNJ10 potential pathogenic mutation was present, and GJB2 biallelic pathogenic mutations were uncommon (2.3%; 1/43). No significant correlation was observed between the genotype and phenotype of SLC26A4 mutations.

Conclusion

SLC26A4 accounts for 74.4% of inner ear malformations in our cohort, whereas FOXI1, KCNJ10, and GJB2 mutations are not common. Other possible genes or external factors may contribute to this multibranch abnormality.
Modified Adenotonsillectomy to Improve Cure Rates for Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Friedman Michael , Samuelson Christian G. , Hamilton Craig , Maley Alexander , Taylor David , Kelley Kanwar , Pearson‐Chauhan Kristine , Hoehne Colleen , LeVay Adam J. , Venkatesan T. K.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To compare the efficacy of adenotonsillectomy (T&A) with and without pharyngoplasty (tonsillar pillar closure) in the treatment of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

Study Design

Randomized single‐blind controlled study.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Sixty pediatric patients with a clinical diagnosis of OSAHS presenting between January 2009 and December 2010 were enrolled and randomized to undergo either standard T&A (n = 30) or T&A with pharyngoplasty (n = 30). Surgical cure was defined as apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) <5 plus OSA‐18 health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQL) score <60. Other outcomes included postsurgical AHI and minimum oxygen saturation (SpO2) improvement, changes in OSA‐18 scores at 1 month, and postsurgical days to resume normal diet and activity.

Results

Three patients from each group did not undergo surgery. Of the 54 patients treated, 8 from the pharyngoplasty group and 2 from the standard group were lost to follow‐up. Intention‐to‐treat analysis revealed no difference in cure rate between groups (standard 60%, pharyngoplasty 56.6%, P =. 793). Limiting analysis to those patients with complete data, a higher, but not significantly increased, cure rate with pharyngoplasty was noted (72% vs 89.5%, P =. 155). Greater OSA‐18 improvement (P =. 036) and greater (although nonsignificant) AHI improvement and earlier return to normal function were noted with pharyngoplasty.

Conclusion

The addition of pharyngoplasty to traditional adenotonsillectomy did not significantly improve OSAHS cure rates as measured by sleep testing and HRQL, although a nonsignificant increase in cure rate was observed in those who completed the study protocol. An unexpectedly high rate of patient dropout rendered the study statistically underpowered and therefore inconclusive.
Chinese Lacto‐Vegetarian Diet Exerts Favorable Effects on Metabolic Parameters, Intima‐Media Thickness, and Cardiovascular Risks in Healthy Men
Authors: Yang Shu‐Yu , Li Xue‐Jun , Zhang Wei , Liu Chang‐Qin , Zhang Hui‐Jie , Lin Jin‐Rong , Yan Bing , Yu Ya‐Xin , Shi Xiu‐Lin , Li Can‐Dong , Li Wei‐Hua
Published: March 2012

Background: To investigate whether the Chinese lacto‐vegetarian diet has protective effects on metabolic and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods: One hundred sixty‐nine healthy Chinese lacto‐vegetarians and 126 healthy omnivore men aged 21–76 years were enrolled. Anthropometric indexes, lipid profile, insulin sensitivity, pancreatic β cell function, and intima‐media thickness (IMT) of carotid arteries were assessed and compared. Cardiovascular risk points and probability of developing CVD in 5–10 years in participants aged 24–55 years were calculated. Results: Compared with omnivores, lacto‐vegetarians had remarkably lower body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and serum levels of triglyceride, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, γ‐glutamyl transferase, serum creatinine, uric acid, fasting blood glucose, as well as lower total cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio. Vegetarians also had higher homeostasis model assessment β cell function and insulin secretion index and thinner carotid IMT than the omnivores did. These results corresponded with lower cardiovascular risk points and probability of developing CVD in 5–10 years in vegetarians 24–55 years old. Conclusions: In healthy Chinese men, the lacto‐vegetarian diet seems to exert protective effects on blood pressure, lipid profiles, and metabolic parameters and results in significantly lower carotid IMT. Lower CVD risks found in vegetarians also reflect the beneficial effect of the Chinese lacto‐vegetarian diet.
An intelligent method for identifying otological drill slippage
Authors: Li Xisheng , Cao Tianyang , Gao Zhiqiang , Feng Guodong , Shen Peng
Published: March 2012

An otological drill is a fundamental apparatus used for bone-milling in ear surgery. A common problem in bone-milling is that the drill bit slips on the bone surface. To improve the operational safety of such a surgery, this article presents a new apparatus combined with an intelligent method for identifying drill slippage. A two-axis force sensor is installed on a modified drill, and it detects the force of the bone’s reaction to the drill bit. By integrating the unit reaction forces of the bone and the drill bit on the contact area, the functions of the force signals are deduced, which can reflect changes in the milling parameters. Based upon these functions, the slippage force, which is an important factor in drill slippage, is then extracted. An adaptive filter is specially designed to suppress interference in the slippage force. Drill slippage can be identified by calculating the variations in the filtering results. Five surgeons were invited to carry out an experiment in which they used this method on calvarian bones. Their average recognition rate of drill slippage was 86%, and only 1% of normal millings were identified as milling faults.
The Return Predictability and Market Efficiency of the KLSE CI Stock Index Futures Market
Authors: Ford J.L. , Pok Wee Ching , Poshakwale S.
Published: March 2012

Numerous studies have shown that returns on stocks and futures can to some extent be predicted over time, and that for developed financial markets, the predictions are compatible with the beta-asset pricing (APT) paradigm. Increasingly, more studies have been undertaken to test the veracity of such a paradigm in emerging markets. It has been contended that the paradigm is inapplicable to those markets and will, in any event, be unable to account for predicted asset returns. In this study we consider the Stock Exchange futures market in Malaysia, which has been neglected in the literature. Our econometric findings (using GMM) indicate that the APT model can be used as a rationale for the predictability of asset returns using local information, with the betas being constant and the expected risk premia being time-varying.

JEL Classification: C5, F3, G1
Hybrid proportional derivative/repetitive control for active vibration control of smart piezoelectric structures
Authors: Lin Chi-Ying , Chang Chih-Ming
Published: March 2012

This paper presents a hybrid control method for active vibration control of smart piezoelectric structures. The proposed controller consists of a proportional derivative (PD) controller for broadband disturbance rejection and a repetitive controller for narrowband disturbance rejection. The proposed design embeds the repetitive controller by solving a Bezout identity satisfying deterministic constraint into an existing PD feedback control loop. The applied method has two main advantages: (1) each controller design is modularized with an “add-on” property for performance improvement; (2) it achieves superior vibration suppression for both impulse and persistent excitation. Experimental results on a piezoelectric cantilever beam demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid controller design method.
Suprapubic Appendectomy
Authors: Garijo Álvarez Jesús Ángel , Gascón Hove Martín , Elosua Tomás González
Published: March 2012

Introduction. Appendectomy is performed on almost 700 000 patients per year in the European Community, rendering it the most common acute surgical procedure. Since the introduction of laparoscopic surgery, there has been increased interest in carrying out procedures with fewer incisions and less ports. Materials and methods. After the inception of single-port access, it is possible to insert into the abdominal cavity multiple instruments through a single device. A total of 15 patients—mean age 22 years and mean body mass index 27 kg/m2—with acute appendicitis were included in this study. Results. Mean operative time was 35 minutes with no conversions. Local suction drain was needed in 2 patients. Mean hospital stay was less than 24 hours with no complications. Conclusion. Single-port suprapubic appendectomy is feasible and safe, and can allow a more direct vision of the operating field depending on the position of the appendix and presents good cosmetic and postoperative outcomes.
Is Single-Port Access Laparoscopy Less Painful Than Conventional Laparoscopy for Adnexal Surgery? A Comparison of Postoperative Pain and Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Yim Ga Won , Lee Maria , Nam Eun Ji , Kim Sunghoon , Kim Young Tae , Kim Sang Wun
Published: March 2012

Objective. This study aimed to compare postoperative pain and surgical outcomes after transumbilical single-port access (SPA) and conventional multiport laparoscopic surgery for adnexal lesions. Methods. A retrospective case–control study was conducted matched by age, body mass index, and frequency of previous abdominal surgery. A total of 110 SPA laparoscopy patients (cases) were matched with a cohort of 107 patients who underwent conventional laparoscopy (controls) for benign adnexal lesions. SPA system consisted of a wound retractor, surgical glove, two 5-mm trocars, and one 11-mm trocar. Postoperative pain scores were measured immediately after surgery and at 6, 24, and 48 hours postsurgery using the numerical rating scale. Results. Postoperative pain scores did not differ between the 2 groups ( P = .552). However, higher number of painkiller administrations was observed in the SPA laparoscopy group (median 3 vs 1, P < .001). The type of surgery and intraoperative blood loss were the significant factors influencing the number of painkiller administrations after controlling for other parameters by linear regression ( P < .0001). The SPA laparoscopy group had less intraoperative blood loss (45.3 vs 87.5 mL, P < .001) and shorter hospital stay (2.1 ± 0.8 vs 2.7 ± 1.0 days, P < .001) compared with the conventional laparoscopy group. Operative time and perioperative complications did not differ between groups. Conclusions. There was no difference in pain intensity between the SPA and conventional laparoscopic group in this study. Future trials are warranted to better define the benefits of SPA surgery in terms of postoperative pain.
The mediating impact of coping style on stress perception for parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Peer Justin W. , Hillman Stephen B.
Published: March 2012

Research reveals that parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities experience more stress than parents of persons of normal development. The majority of previous research has measured direct relationships between stress variables and stress perception and little attention has been given to the impact of mediating variables. The present study utilized an indirect pathway model to examine the mediating influence of coping style on the relationship between social support, severity of child disability, parental optimism and stress perception for these parents. Parents of individuals receiving mental health services through an agency in Southeastern Michigan participated in the study. Results indicated that coping style partially mediated the relationship between social support and stress perception for parents of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Evidence-Based Guidance for Culturally Sensitive Assessment and Interventions for Perinatal Depression in Black American Women
Authors: Cruser des Anges , Asante-Ackuayi Linda , Brown Sarah , Cardenas Estela , Lee David
Published: March 2012

Purpose: This article provides a review of published evidence-based guidance about culturally sensitive assessment and treatment intervention strategies addressing perinatal depression in black American women. Culturally sensitive approaches focus more on the woman’s environment than on her race and thus may improve access to treatment for perinatal depression by increasing health literacy. Methods: The authors abstracted evidence-based guidance from articles published between November 2005 and September 2011, including only articles specifically analyzing a discrete sample of black American women during pregnancy or within 6 months postpartum. They also examined research on unique cultural characteristics of black American women. To obtain relevant studies, the authors searched for research literature indexed in PubMed, using key terms associated with 2 systematic reviews of prevalence and risk factors for perinatal depression and additional keywords as used in the articles found. They abstracted the focus, design and methods, population, and results for each article in a table; discussed the findings; and suggested assessment and intervention strategies based on the studies’ results. Findings: Sixteen articles from 13 journals provide compelling evidence of culture-based risk factors for perinatal depression for black American women and information to guide culturally sensitive assessments and interventions. The literature provides a rich compendium of relevant and useful implications for clinical practice in assessing and addressing depression among pregnant black American women. Conclusions: Primary care providers may want to incorporate culturally sensitive screening questions to early identify and facilitate treatment interventions for depressive symptoms in their pregnant black American patients.
Dasatinib inhibits proinflammatory functions of mature human neutrophils
Authors: Futosi Krisztina , Németh Tamás , Pick Robert , Vántus Tibor , Walzog Barbara , Mócsai Attila
Published: March 2012

Dasatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used to treat imatinib-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. At present, little is known about how dasatinib influences nonmalignant cells. In the present study, we tested the effect of dasatinib on functional responses of normal mature human neutrophils. Dasatinib completely blocked integrin- and Fc-receptor–mediated neutrophil functions, with the lowest IC50 values below 10nM under serum-free conditions. Dasatinib caused a partial inhibition of neutrophil responses triggered by G-protein–coupled receptors and had a moderate effect on neutrophil responses triggered by microbial compounds. Whereas dasatinib inhibited neutrophil chemotaxis under static conditions in 2 dimensions, it did not affect migration under flow conditions or in 3-dimensional environments. Dasatinib did not have any major effect on phagocytosis or killing of bacteria by neutrophils. Adhesion of human neutrophils in the presence of whole serum was significantly inhibited by 50-100nM dasatinib, which corresponds to the reported serum concentrations in dasatinib-treated patients. Finally, ex vivo adhesion of mouse peripheral blood neutrophils was strongly reduced after oral administration of 5 mg/kg of dasatinib. Those results suggest that dasatinib treatment may affect the proinflammatory functions of mature neutrophils and raise the possibility that dasatinib-related compounds may provide clinical benefit in neutrophil-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Vascular endothelial hyperpermeability induces the clinical symptoms of Clarkson disease (the systemic capillary leak syndrome)
Authors: Xie Zhihui , Ghosh Chandra C. , Patel Roshni , Iwaki Shoko , Gaskins Donna , Nelson Celeste , Jones Nina , Greipp Philip R. , Parikh Samir M. , Druey Kirk M.
Published: March 2012

The systemic capillary leak syndrome (SCLS) is a rare disorder characterized by transient episodes of hypotensive shock and anasarca thought to arise from reversible microvascular barrier dysfunction. Although the high prevalence of a monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance in SCLS suggests a pathogenic contribution of endogenous immunoglobulins, the mechanisms of vascular hyperpermeability remain obscure. Herein, we report clinical and molecular findings on 23 patients, the largest SCLS case series to date. Application of episodic SCLS sera, but neither the purified immunoglobulin fraction nor sera obtained from patients during remission, to human microvascular endothelial cells caused vascular endothelial cadherin internalization, disruption of interendothelial junctions, actin stress fiber formation, and increased permeability in complementary functional assays without inducing endothelial apoptosis. Intravenous immunoglobulin, one promising therapy for SCLS, mitigated the permeability effects of episodic sera. Consistent with the presence of endogenous, nonimmunoglobulin, circulating permeability factor(s) constrained to SCLS episodes, we found that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiopoietin 2 (Ang2), were elevated in episodic SCLS sera but not in remission sera. Ab-based inhibition of Ang2 counteracted permeability induced by episodic SCLS sera. Comparable experiments with anti-VEGF Ab (bevacizumab) yielded less interpretable results, probably because of endothelial toxicity of VEGF withdrawal. Our results support a model of SCLS pathogenesis in which nonimmunoglobulin humoral factors such as VEGF and Ang2 contribute to transient endothelial contraction, suggesting a molecular mechanism for this highly lethal disorder.
How we choose factor VIII to treat hemophilia
Authors: Mannucci Pier Mannuccio , Mancuso Maria Elisa , Santagostino Elena
Published: March 2012

In high-income countries, the large availability of coagulation factors for replacement therapy of patients with hemophilia A has raised the life expectancy of these lifelong bleeders to that of males from the general population. The practicing clinician is offered a multitude of choices among several commercial brands of factor VIII extracted from human plasma or engineered from mammalian cell cultures by means of recombinant DNA technology. This article has the goal to offer our opinions on how to choose among the different products, that we consider interchangeable relevant to their clinical efficacy in the control of bleeding and safety from pathogen transmission. Hence, the main determinants of our choices are price and the risk of occurrence of factor VIII inhibitory alloantibodies. With this as background, we present the rationale underlying the choices for different categories of patients with severe hemophilia A: previously untreated patients, multiply treated patients, and patients undergoing immune tolerance induction with large doses of factor VIII to eradicate inhibitors. Mention is also made to the possible strategies that should be implemented to make available coagulation factors for replacement therapy in developing countries.
Optimal generalized Heronian mean bounds for the logarithmic mean
Authors: Shi Hong-Xing , Long Bo-Yong , Chu Yu-Ming
Published: March 2012

In this article, we establish a double inequality between the generalized Heronian and logarithmic means. The achieved result is inspired by the articles of Lin and Shi et al., and the methods from Janous. The inequalities we obtained improve the existing corresponding results and, in some sense, are optimal.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification:26E60.
Epidemiology of severe pediatric adenovirus lower respiratory tract infections in Manitoba, Canada, 1991-2005
Authors: Alharbi Saleh , Van Caeseele Paul , Consunji-Araneta Raquel , Zoubeidi Taoufik , Fanella Sergio , Souid Abdul-Kader , Alsuwaidi Ahmed R
Published: March 2012

Background

Most pediatric adenovirus respiratory infections are mild and indistinguishable from other viral causes. However, in a few children, the disease can be severe and result in substantial morbidity. We describe the epidemiologic, clinical, radiologic features and outcome of adenovirus lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal children in Manitoba, Canada during the years 1991 and 2005.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 193 children who presented to the department of pediatrics at Winnipeg Children's Hospital, Manitoba, Canada with LRTI and had a positive respiratory culture for adenovirus. Patients' demographics, clinical and radiologic features and outcomes were collected. Adenovirus serotype distributions and temporal associations were described. Approximate incidence comparisons (detection rates) of adenovirus LRTI among Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal children were estimated with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Adenovirus infections occurred throughout the year with clusters in the fall and winter. Serotypes 1 to 3 were the predominant isolates (two thirds of the cases). The infection was more frequent among Canadian Aboriginals, as illustrated in 2004, where its incidence in children 0-4 years old was 5.6 fold higher in Aboriginals (13.51 vs. 2.39 per 10,000, p < 0.000). There were no significant differences in length of hospitalization and use of ventilator assistance between the two groups (p > 0.185 and p > 0.624, respectively) nor across serotypes (p > 0.10 and p > 0.05, respectively). The disease primarily affected infants (median age, 9.5 months). Most children presented with bronchiolitis or pneumonia, with multi-lobar consolidations on the chest x-ray. Chronic (residual) changes were documented in 16 patients, with eight patients showing bronchiectasis on the chest computerized tomography scan.

Conclusions

Adenovirus infection is associated with significant respiratory morbidities, especially in young infants. The infection appears to be more frequent in Aboriginal children. These results justify a careful follow-up for children with adenovirus LRTI.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors for septic shock in patients receiving emergency drainage for acute pyelonephritis with upper urinary tract calculi
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshiyuki , Fujita Kazutoshi , Nakazawa Shigeaki , Hayashi Takuji , Tanigawa Go , Imamura Ryoichi , Hosomi Masahiro , Wada Daiki , Fujimi Satoshi , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: March 2012

Background

Acute pyelonephritis (APN) is a common complication of ureteral obstruction caused by urolithiasis, and it can be lethal if it progresses to septic shock. We investigated the clinical characteristics of patients undergoing emergency drainage and assessed risk factors for septic shock.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed of 98 patients (101 events) requiring emergency drainage at our urology department for obstructive APN associated with upper urinary tract calculi from January 2003 to January 2011. Clinical characteristics were summarized, and risk factors for septic shock were assessed by logistic regression analysis.

Results

Objective evidence of sepsis was found in 64 (63.4%) events, and 21 events (20.8%) were categorized as septic shock. Ninety-six patients recovered, but 2 patients died of septic shock. Multivariate analysis revealed that age and the presence of paralysis were independent risk factors for septic shock.

Conclusions

APN associated with upper urinary tract calculi is a severe disease that should be treated with caution, particularly when risk factors are present.