bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensive Care Usage by HIV-Positive Patients in the HAART Era
Authors: Turtle L. , Vyakernam R. , Menon-Johansson A. , Nelson M. R. , Soni N.
Published: October 2011

In the 1980s the outlook for patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and critical illness was poor. Since then several studies of outcome of HIV+ patients on ICU have shown improving prognosis, with anti-retroviral therapy playing a large part. We retrospectively examined intensive care (ICU) admissions in a large HIV unit in London. Between April 2001 and April 2006 43 patients were admitted to the ICU. The mean age of patients was 44 years and 74% were male. Fifty-six percent of admissions were receiving anti-retroviral therapy and 44% had an AIDS defining diagnosis. The median CD4 count was 128 cells/mL and the median APACHE II score was 21. The commonest diagnostic ICU admission category was respiratory disease. This group experienced higher mortality despite slightly lower APACHE II scores, though this did not achieve statistical significance. The follow up period was one year or until April 2007, when data were censored. ICU mortality was 33%, in hospital mortality was 51% and overall mortality at the end of the study period was 67%. Median survival was 1008 days. The CD4 count did not predict long-term survival, although the sample size was too small for this to be conclusive.
The Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome: A Common Clinical Problem in the Elderly
Authors: Zeki Amir A. , Schivo Michael , Chan Andrew , Albertson Timothy E. , Louie Samuel
Published: October 2011

Many patients with breathlessness and chronic obstructive lung disease are diagnosed with either asthma, COPD, or—frequently—mixed disease. More commonly, patients with uncharacterized breathlessness are treated with therapies that target asthma and COPD rather than one of these diseases. This common practice represents the difficulty in distinguishing these disorders clinically, particularly in patients with a history that does not easily differentiate asthma from COPD. A common clinical scenario is an older former smoker with partially reversible or fixed airflow obstruction and evidence of atopy, demonstrating “overlap” features of asthma and COPD. We stress that asthma-COPD overlap syndrome becomes more prevalent with advancing age as patients respond less favorably to guideline-recommended drug therapy. We review the similarities and differences in clinical characteristics between these disorders, and their physiologic and inflammatory profiles within the context of the aging patient. We underscore the difficulties in differentiating asthma from COPD in current or former smokers, share our institutional experience with overlap syndrome, and highlight the need for new research to better characterize and investigate this important clinical phenotype.
Thiazolidinediones on PPARγ: The Roles in Bone Remodeling
Authors: Wei Wei , Wan Yihong
Published: October 2011

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are synthetic PPARγ(peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) agonists and a class of drugs for diabetes mellitus type 2 that can decrease blood sugar efficiently by enhancing insulin sensitivity. However, increased bone fracture risk in diabetic individuals treated with TZDs is one of the reported side effects. Recent studies show that TZDs such as rosiglitazone simultaneously inhibit osteoblast differentiation and activate osteoclast differentiation, leading to bone loss due to decreased bone formation and increased bone resorption. Furthermore, TZDs may activate PPARγin tissues other than bone, such as the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis to indirectly regulate bone mass. This paper will focus on current new developments that implicate potential mechanisms for how PPARγmodulates skeletal homeostasis and how TZDs exert bone-loss side effects.
A Bayesian Hyperparameter Inference for Radon-Transformed Image Reconstruction
Authors: Shouno Hayaru , Yamasaki Madomi , Okada Masato
Published: October 2011

We develop a hyperparameter inference method for image reconstruction from Radon transform which often appears in the computed tomography, in the manner of Bayesian inference. Hyperparameters are often introduced in Bayesian inference to control the strength ratio between prior information and the fidelity to the observation. Since the quality of the reconstructed image is controlled by the estimation accuracy of these hyperparameters, we apply Bayesian inference into the filtered back-projection (FBP) reconstruction method with hyperparameters inference and demonstrate that the estimated hyperparameters can adapt to the noise level in the observation automatically. In the computer simulation, at first, we show that our algorithm works well in the model framework environment, that is, observation noise is an additive white Gaussian noise case. Then, we also show that our algorithm works well in the more realistic environment, that is, observation noise is Poissonian noise case. After that, we demonstrate an application for the real chest CT image reconstruction under the Gaussian and Poissonian observation noises.
Design of an Extended Interacting Multiple Models Adaptive Estimator for Attitude Determination of a Stereoimagery Satellite
Authors: Bolandi Hossein , Fani Saberi Farhad , Mehrjardi Eslami Amir
Published: November 2011

We will design an extended interacting multiple models adaptive estimator (EIMMAE) for attitude determination of a stereoimagery satellite. This algorithm is based on interacting multiple models (IMM) extended kalman filters (EKF) using star sensor and gyroscope data. In this method, the motion of satellite during stereoimaging manoeuvres is partitioned into two different modes: “manoeuvring motion” mode and “uniform motion” mode. The proposed algorithm will select the suitable Kalman filter structure to estimate gyro errors accurately in order to maintain the peak attitude estimation error less enough at the beginning of manoeuvres while the satellite is in “manoeuvring motion” mode and then will select the suitable star sensor measurement noise level at the end of manoeuvres while the satellite is in “uniform motion” mode to reduce attitude estimation errors. It will be shown that using the proposed algorithm, the attitude estimation accuracy of stereoimagery satellite will be increased considerably. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm will be examined and compared with the previous proposed methods through numerical simulations.
Risk‐Adjusted Control Charts for Health Care Monitoring
Authors: Albers Willem
Published: October 2011

Attribute data from high‐quality processes can be monitored effectively by deciding on whether or not to stop at each time where r ≥ 1 failures have occurred. The smaller the degree of change in failure rate during out of control one wants to be optimally protected against, the larger the r should be. Under homogeneity,
the distribution involved is negative binomial. However, in health care monitoring, (groups of) patients will often belong to different risk categories. In the present paper, we will show how information about category membership can be used to adjust the basic negative binomial charts to the actual risk incurred. Attention is also devoted to comparing such conditional charts to their unconditional counterparts. The latter do take possible heterogeneity into account but refrain from risk‐adjustment. Note that in the risk adjusted case several parameters are involved, which will all be typically unknown. Hence, the potentially considerable estimation effects of the new charts will be investigated as well.
Light-Driven Droplet Manipulation Technologies for Lab-on-a-Chip Applications
Authors: Park Sung-Yong , Chiou Pei-Yu
Published: October 2011

Droplet-based (digital) microfluidics has been demonstrated in many lab-on-a-chip applications due to its free cross-contamination and no dispersion nature. Droplet manipulation mechanisms are versatile, and each has unique advantages and limitations. Recently, the idea of manipulating droplets with light beams either through optical forces or light-induced physical mechanisms has attracted some interests, since light can achieve 3D addressing, carry high energy density for high speed actuation, and be patterned and dynamically reconfigured to generate a large number of light beams for massively parallel manipulation. This paper reviews recent developments of various optical technologies for droplet manipulation and their applications in lab-on-a-chip.
Accidental Subcutaneous Remifentanil Infusion as a Cause of Delayed Awakening after Craniotomy
Authors: Wolfson Alexander , Swamidoss Cephas
Published: November 2011

We report a case of accidental subcutaneous infusion of remifentanil as a cause of delayed awakening after a craniotomy.
Characterization of Serum Phospholipase A2Activity in Three Diverse Species of West African Crocodiles
Authors: Merchant Mark , Juneau Kate , Gemillion Jared , Falconi Rodolfo , Doucet Aaron , Shirley Matthew H.
Published: October 2011

Secretory phospholipase A2, an enzyme that exhibits substantial immunological activity, was measured in the serum of three species of diverse West African crocodiles. Incubation of different volumes of crocodile serum with bacteria labeled with a fluorescent fatty acid in thesn-2 position of membrane lipids resulted in a volume-dependent liberation of fluorescent probe. Serum from the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) exhibited slightly higher activity than that of the slender-snouted crocodile (Mecistops cataphractus) and the African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis). Product formation was inhibited by BPB, a specific PLA2inhibitor, confirming that the activity was a direct result of the presence of serum PLA2. Kinetic analysis showed thatC. niloticusserum produced product more rapidly thanM. cataphractusorO. tetraspis. Serum from all three species exhibited temperature-dependent PLA2activities but with slightly different thermal profiles. All three crocodilian species showed high levels of activity against eight different species of bacteria.
Newly Licensed RNs Describe What They Like Best about Being a Nurse
Authors: Djukic Maja , Pellico Linda H. , Kovner Christine T. , Brewer Carol S.
Published: October 2011

About 25% of newly licensed registered nurses (NLRNs) leave their first job within two years, but only 2% leave the nursing profession in this same timeframe. Therefore, the researchers sought to discover what new nurses like best about being a nurse, in hopes of gaining information that might help facilities to reduce turnover rates. Data were collected between January and March 2009 from 1,152 NLRNs licensed in 15 US states. Krippendorff's method was used to analyze survey responses. Five themes emerged: “providing holistic patient care,” “having an autonomous and collaborative practice,” “using diverse knowledge and skills to impact patient outcomes,” “receiving recognition,” and “having a job that is secure and stimulating.” Strategies are discussed that organizations might employ in helping NLRNs to realize what they best like about their work, which might lead to improved retention rates.
Leptin and Fasting Regulate Rat Gastric Glucose-Regulated Protein 58
Authors: Bravo Susana B. , Caminos Jorge E. , González Carmen R. , Vázquez María J. , Garcés María F. , Cepeda Libia A. , García-Rendueles María E.R. , Iglesias-Gamarra Antonio , Gómez-Díaz Consuelo , Lopez Miguel , Castaño Justo P. , Diéguez Carlos , Nogueiras Rubén
Published: October 2011

The stomach secretes a wide range of peptides with essential metabolic functions, and thereby plays an important role in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Disulfide isomerase glucose-regulated protein 58 (GRp58) is a molecular chaperone member of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress signaling pathway, which is a marker for human gastric cancer. Since GRp58 seems to be regulated by a phosphorylation/dephosphorylation pattern shift, we used the 2DE gel methodology and peptide mass fingerprinting-protein identification by means of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. We show that gastric mucosa GRp58 is dephosphorylated by fasting, and this effect is blunted when fasted rats are treated with leptin. Furthermore, we assessed the gene expression of GRp58 under different physiological settings known to be associated with energy homeostasis (fasting, leptin treatment and leptin deficiency). We found that intraperitoneal administration of leptin increases whereas leptin deficiency decreases GRp58 mRNA levels. However, GRp58 expression remains unchanged after fasting, indicating that leptin actions on GRp58 are no direct sensitivity to fasting. Dissection of the molecular pathways mediating the interactions between ER stress-related factors and nutrient availability, as well as their target genes, may open a new avenue for the study of obesity and other metabolic disorders.
A Rademacher‐Type Formula for pod(n)
Authors: Kiria-Kaiserberg Vyacheslav
Published: October 2011

A Rademacher‐type formula for the Fourier coefficients of the generating function for the partitions of n where no odd part is repeated is presented.
Ultrashort Optical Pulse Propagation in terms of Analytic Signal
Authors: Amiranashvili Sh. , Demircan A.
Published: November 2011

We demonstrate that ultrashort optical pulses propagating in a nonlinear dispersive medium are naturally described through incorporation of analytic signal for the electric field. To this end a second-order nonlinear wave equation is first simplified using a unidirectional approximation. Then the analytic signal is introduced, and all nonresonant nonlinear terms are eliminated. The derived propagation equation accounts for arbitrary dispersion, resonant four-wave mixing processes, weak absorption, and arbitrary pulse duration. The model applies to the complex electric field and is independent of the slowly varying envelope approximation. Still the derived propagation equation posses universal structure of the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NSE). In particular, it can be solved numerically with only small changes of the standard split-step solver or more complicated spectral algorithms for NSE. We present exemplary numerical solutions describing supercontinuum generation with an ultrashort optical pulse.
Genetic Association of NPY Gene Polymorphisms with Dampness-Phlegm Pattern in Korean Stroke Patients
Authors: Ko Mi Mi , Kang Byoung Kab , Lim Ji Hye , Lee Myeong Soo , Cha Min Ho
Published: October 2011

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), which is widely expressed in both the central and peripheral nervous systems, has an important role in a variety of biological fields. In this study, we analyzed the distribution of NPY polymorphisms in dampness-phlegm pattern and non-dampness-phlegm pattern in elderly Korean subjects with cerebral infarction (CI). A total of 1.097 subjects (498 normal subjects and 599 CI patients, including 198 with dampness-phlegm pattern and 401 with non-dampness-phlegm pattern) participated in this study. Genotyping for five SNPs (G-1484A, C-1471T, C-399T, A1201G, and C5325T) was conducted by primer extension. The results were statistically analyzed for genetic association of NPY-polymorphisms with normal versus dampness-phlegm pattern or non-dampness-phlegm pattern subjects. Among the five SNPs tested, the T allele of C-399T has a negative association with the dampness-phlegm pattern and is marked by a decrease in serum cholesterol levels. Furthermore, serum cholesterol levels were significantly higher in dampness-phlegm pattern patients than in non-dampness-phlegm pattern patients.In this study, for the first time, the association of NPY polymorphisms with pattern identification (PI) of traditional Korean medicine (TKM) was analyzed in a large CI patient population.
The Clinical Concept of Fibromyalgia as a Changing Paradigm in the Past 20 Years
Authors: Fitzcharles Mary-Ann , Yunus Muhammad B.
Published: October 2011

Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a valid clinical condition that affects 2%–4% of the population with a pivot symptom of widespread body pain. The cause and cure of FMS are as yet unknown. The concept of FMS has evolved over the past two decades to incorporate symptoms beyond pain as contributing to the global spectrum of suffering. FMS is now recognized to be grounded in the neurological domain with evidence of dysregulation of pain processing. Appreciation of the neurophysiologic mechanisms operative in FMS has contributed to rational treatment recommendations, although a “gold standard treatment” does not currently exist. Ideal treatments for FMS patients should be individualized with emphasis on active patient participation, good health practices, and multimodal intervention, incorporating nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments. Predictors of outcome, which is favourable in over 50% of patients, are unknown, but those with better outcome do more physical activity and use fewer medications.
Oncolytic Virotherapy for Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Bais Swarna , Bartee Eric , Rahman Masmudur M. , McFadden Grant , Cogle Christopher R.
Published: October 2011

Hematological malignancies such as leukemias, lymphomas, multiple myeloma (MM), and the myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) primarily affect adults and are difficult to treat. For high-risk disease, hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) can be used. However, in the setting of autologous HCT, relapse due to contamination of the autograft with cancer cells remains a major challenge.Ex vivomanipulations of the autograft to purge cancer cells using chemotherapies and toxins have been attempted. Because these past strategies lack specificity for malignant cells and often impair the normal hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, prior efforts toex vivopurge autografts have resulted in prolonged cytopenias and graft failure. The idealex vivopurging agent would selectively target the contaminating cancer cells while spare normal stem and progenitor cells and would be applied quickly without toxicities to the recipient. One agent which meets these criteria is oncolytic viruses. This paper details experimental progress with reovirus, myxoma virus, measles virus, vesicular stomatitis virus, coxsackievirus, and vaccinia virus as well as requirements for translation of these results to the clinic.
Uptake of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Conjugated with DNA by Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Harvey Joseph , Dong Lifeng , Kim Kyoungtae , Hayden Jacob , Wang Jianjie
Published: November 2011

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been proposed to have great therapeutic potential. SWCNTs conjugated with drugs or genes travel in the systemic circulation to reach target cells or tissues following extravasation from microvessels although the interaction between SWCNT conjugates and the microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) remains unknown. We hypothesized that SWCNT-DNA conjugates would be taken up by microvascular ECs and that this process would be facilitated by SWCNTs compared to facilitation by DNA alone. ECs were treated with various concentrations of SWCNT-DNA-FITC conjugates, and the uptake and intracellular distribution of these conjugates were determined by a confocal microscope imaging system followed by quantitative analysis of fluorescence intensity. The uptake of SWCNT-DNA-FITC conjugates (2 μg/mL) by microvascular ECs was significantly greater than that of DNA-FITC (2 μg/mL), observed at 6 hrs after treatment. For the intracellular distribution, SWCNT-DNA-FITC conjugates were detected in the nucleus of ECs, while DNA-FITC was restricted to the cytoplasm. The fluorescence intensity and distribution of SWCNTs were concentration and time independent. The findings demonstrate that SWCNTs facilitate DNA delivery into microvascular ECs, thus suggesting that SWCNTs serving as drug and gene vehicles have therapeutic potential.
The HPLC/DAD Fingerprints and Chemometric Analysis of Flavonoid Extracts from the Selected Sage (Salvia) Species
Authors: Sajewicz Mieczysław , Staszek Dorota , Wróbel Michał S. , Waksmundzka-Hajnos Monika , Kowalska Teresa
Published: October 2011

The results of spectrophotometric and HPLC/DAD analysis are discussed, and a comparison is made of selectively extracted flavonoid fractions derived from twenty six sage species belonging to the Salvia genus. The sage samples were harvested in the vegetation seasons 2007, 2008, and 2009. It was a goal of this study to find out which species contain the highest yields of flavonoids (recognized for their free-radical-scavenging activity), as those with the highest yields could be applied in official medicine. It was spectrophotometrically established that the four sage species can be recognized for their highest flavonoid levels, while the HPLC/DAD analysis pointed out to the four other species. The source of the discrepancy between the two evaluation approaches was discussed. Moreover, the HPLC/DAD fingerprints of the flavonoid fraction underwent a chemometric pre-treatment, and then the purified fingerprints were analyzed by means of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for the differences in the harvesting period. A difference was revealed between the herbs harvested in the 2007 season, and those harvested in 2008 and 2009. The main source of this difference could be the seasonal weather variation and the relatively longest storage period with the plants harvested in 2007.
Research onTrypanosoma cruziand Analysis of Inflammatory Infiltrate in Esophagus and Colon from Chronic Chagasic Patients with and without Mega
Authors: Côbo Eliângela de Castro , Silveira Thales Parenti , Micheletti Adilha Misson , Crema Eduardo , Adad Sheila Jorge
Published: October 2011

To compare parasitism and inflammatory process in esophagus and colon from chronic chagasic patients, immunohistochemistry was carried out to research forT. cruziand to evaluate the inflammatory infiltrate in the muscular and myenteric plexus in 39 esophagi (20 with and 19 without megaesophagus) and 50 colons (25 with and 25 without megacolon). The frequency ofT. cruziin megaesophagus was 20%, and in megacolon it was 4%. No amastigotes were found in organs without mega; considering the total of esophagi (with and without mega), the frequency ofT. cruziwould be 10% and 2% in the colon. Myositis and ganglionitis were more frequent and intense in organs with mega compared to those without mega, and in esophagus compared to colon. Qualitatively, inflammatory infiltration in esophagus and colon, with or without mega, was similar, consisting predominantly of T lymphocytes (CD3+), scarce macrophages (CD68+), and rare B lymphocytes (CD20+).
Development of Visible Light-Responsive Sensitized Photocatalysts
Authors: Pei Donghua , Luan Jingfei
Published: October 2011

The paper presents a review of studies about the visible-light-promoted photodegradation of the contaminants and energy conversion with sensitized photocatalysts. Herein we studied mechanism, physical properties, and synergism effect of the sensitized photocatalysts as well as the method for enhancing the photosensitized effect. According to the reported studies in the literature, inorganic sensitizers, organic dyes, and coordination metal complexes were very effective sensitizers that were studied mostly, of which organic dyes photosensitization is the most widely studied modified method. Photosensitization is an important way to extend the excitation wavelength to the visible range, and therefore sensitized photocatalysts play an important role in the development of visible light-responsive photocatalysts for future industrialized applications. This paper mainly describes the types, modification, photocatalytic performance, application, and the developments of photosensitization for environmental application.
The Practical Stabilization for a Class of Networked Systems with Actuator Saturation and Input Additive Disturbances
Authors: Chen Dongyan , Li Shanqiang , Shi Yujing
Published: October 2011

The practical stabilization problem is investigated for a class of linear systems with actuator saturation and input additive disturbances. Firstly, the case of the input additive disturbance being a bounded constant and a variety of different situations of system matrices are studied for the three‐dimensional linear system with actuator saturation, respectively. By applying the Riccati equation approach and designing the linear state feedback control law, sufficient conditions are established to guarantee the semiglobal practical stabilization or oscillation for the addressed system. Secondly, for the case of the input additive disturbances being time‐varying functions, a more general class of systems with actuator saturation is investigated. By employing the Riccati equation approach, a low‐and‐high‐gain linear state feedback control law is designed to guarantee the global or semiglobal practical stabilization for the closed‐loop systems.
Interleukin-13, but Not Indomethacin, Increases Cysteinyl-Leukotriene Synthesis in Human Lung Macrophages
Authors: Jackson Sarah E. , Holloway John W. , Warner Jane A. , Sampson Anthony P.
Published: October 2011

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is associated with constitutively elevated synthesis of bronchoconstrictor cysteinyl-leukotrienes, associated with increased expression of leukotriene (LT)C4 synthase and Th2 cytokines and airway eosinophilia. We examined whether interleukin-13 can increase LTC4 synthase gene transcription and cysteinyl-leukotriene synthesis in macrophages isolated from resected human lung tissue and whether an NSAID (indomethacin) can trigger further cysteinyl-leukotriene synthesis in these cells. Overnight culture of human lung macrophages with IL-13 (10 ng/mL) increased spontaneous and ionophore-stimulated production of cysteinyl-leukotrienes by 42% (P=0.02) and 52% (P=0.005), respectively, as quantified by enzyme immunoassays, but PCR gene transcription assays did not demonstrate an effect on LTC4S mRNA. The addition of indomethacin (100 μM) did not modulate cysteinyl-leukotriene production in either IL-13-treated or untreated macrophages. We conclude that while IL-13 enhances cysteinyl-leukotriene synthesis in human lung macrophages, it does not replicate the enhanced LTC4 synthase expression observed in the AERD lung nor confer sensitivity to NSAIDs.
Tuberculosis in Pregnancy: A Review
Authors: Loto Olabisi M. , Awowole Ibraheem
Published: November 2011

Tuberculosis (TB) was declared a public health emergency by WHO in 2005. The disease is a significant contributor to maternal mortality and is among the three leading causes of death among women aged 15–45 years in high burden areas. The exact incidence of tuberculosis in pregnancy, though not readily available, is expected to be as high as in the general population. Diagnosis of tuberculosis in pregnancy may be challenging, as the symptoms may initially be ascribed to the pregnancy, and the normal weight gain in pregnancy may temporarily mask the associated weight loss. Obstetric complications of TB include spontaneous abortion, small for date uterus, preterm labour, low birth weight, and increased neonatal mortality. Congenital TB though rare, is associated with high perinatal mortality. Rifampicin, INH and Ethambutol are the first line drugs while Pyrazinamide use in pregnancy is gaining popularity. Isoniazid preventive therapy is a WHO innovation aimed at reducing the infection in HIV positive pregnant women. Babies born to this mother should be commenced on INH prophylaxis for six months, after which they are vaccinated with BCG if they test negative. Successful control of TB demands improved living conditions, public enlightenment, primary prevention of HIV/AIDS and BCG vaccination.
Practical Stability in the pth Mean for Itô Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Miao Enguang , Shu Huisheng , Che Yan
Published: October 2011

The pth mean practical stability problem is studied for a general
class of Itô‐type stochastic differential equations over both finite and infinite time horizons.
Instead of the comparison principle, a function η(t) which is nonnegative, nondecreasing,
and differentiable is cooperated with the Lyapunov‐like functions to analyze the practical
stability. By using this technique, the difficulty in finding an auxiliary deterministic stable
system is avoided. Then, some sufficient conditions are established that guarantee the pth
moment practical stability of the considered equations. Moreover, the practical stability
is compared with traditional Lyapunov stability; some differences between them are given.
Finally, the results derived in this paper are demonstrated by an illustrative example.
Medicoeconomic Index for Photo-Induced Skin Cancers
Authors: Chiorean Ioana , Lupşa Liana , Neamţiu Luciana , Crişan Maria
Published: November 2011

Like in every type of cancer, in skin cancer the efficiency of the medical treatment is very important. In the present paper, a Bayesian model for the management of this disease is given, and a medical index to measure the effectiveness of treatment from medical, economical, and quality of life point of view is presented, taking into account some of the patients characteristics.
Spatial Variation in Bird Community Composition in Relation to Topographic Gradient and Forest Heterogeneity in a Central Amazonian Rainforest
Authors: Cintra Renato , Naka Luciano N.
Published: October 2011

We investigated the effects of landscape features and forest structure on the avian community at the Reserva Florestal Adolpho Ducke near Manaus, in the Brazilian Amazon. We sampled the landscape and forest in 72 50 × 50 m plots systematically distributed in the reserve, covering an area of 6,400 ha. The avifauna was sampled using mist nets and acoustic surveys near the plots. We found no significant relationships between landscape features and forest components in the plots and the number of bird species and individuals sampled. Results of Principal Coordinate Analyses, however, showed that bird species composition changes along a topographic gradient (plateau-slope-valley), and also in relation to leaf litter depth and distance to forest streams. We also found compositional differences in the avian community on the eastern and western water basins that compose the reserve. Our results suggest that although most bird species occur throughout the reserve, many species track differences in the landscape and the forest structure.
Biomarkers of Cervical Dysplasia and Carcinoma
Authors: Hwang Sonya J. , Shroyer Kenneth R.
Published: October 2011

Although cervical cytology screening has decreased the incidence of cervical cancer in industrialized countries, HPV-related cervical disease, including premalignant and malignant lesions, continues to represent a major burden on the health care system. Some of the problems include the potential for either under- or overtreatment of women due to decreased specificity of screening tests as well as significant interobserver variability in the diagnosis of cervical dysplastic lesions. Although not completely elucidated, the HPV-driven molecular mechanisms underlying the development of cervical lesions have provided a number of potential biomarkers for both diagnostic and prognostic use in the clinical management of these women.
Integrin Trafficking and Tumor Progression
Authors: Shin Sejeong , Wolgamott Laura , Yoon Sang-Oh
Published: October 2011

Integrins are major mediators of cancer cell adhesion to extracellular matrix. Through this interaction, integrins play critical roles in cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and resistance to apoptosis during tumor progression. Recent studies highlight the importance of integrin trafficking, endocytosis and recycling, for the functions of integrins in cancer cells. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of integrin trafficking is pivotal for understanding tumor progression and for the development of anticancer drugs.
The Effect of the Thioether-Bridged, Stabilized Angiotensin-(1–7) Analogue Cyclic Ang-(1–7) on Cardiac Remodeling and Endothelial Function in Rats with Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Durik Matej , van Veghel Richard , Kuipers Anneke , Rink Rick , Haas Jimoh Akanbi Marijke , Moll Gert , Danser A. H. Jan , Roks Anton J. M.
Published: October 2011

Modulation of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by angiotensin-(1–7) (Ang-(1–7)) is an attractive approach to combat the detrimental consequences of myocardial infarction (MI). However Ang-(1–7) has limited clinical potential due to its unfavorable pharmacokinetic profile. We investigated effects of a stabilized, thioether-bridged analogue of Ang-(1–7) called cyclic Ang-(1–7) in rat model of myocardial infarction. Rats underwent coronary ligation or sham surgery. Two weeks thereafter infusion with 0.24 or 2.4 μg/kg/h cAng-(1–7) or saline was started for 8 weeks. Thereafter, cardiac morphometric and hemodynamic variables as wells as aortic endothelial function were measured. The average infarct size was 13.8% and was not changed by cAng-(1–7) treatment. MI increased heart weight and myocyte size, which was restored by cAng-(1–7) to sham levels. In addition, cAng-(1–7) lowered left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and improved endothelial function. The results suggest that cAng-(1–7) is a promising new agent in treatment of myocardial infarction and warrant further research.
The PPARγAgonist Rosiglitazone Is Antifibrotic for Scleroderma Lung Fibroblasts: Mechanisms of Action and Differential Racial Effects
Authors: Bogatkevich Galina S. , Highland Kristin B. , Akter Tanjina , Silver Richard M.
Published: November 2011

We present novel data demonstrating that the expression of PPARγis reduced in lung fibroblasts from black SSc-ILD patients as compared to white patients. Activating PPARγwith the agonist rosiglitazone increased the expression of MMP-1 and inhibited collagen type I in lung fibroblasts isolated from white, but not black, SSc-ILD patients. Blocking the c-Met receptor abolishes rosiglitazone's effects on collagen and MMP-1 in lung fibroblasts isolated from white SSc-ILD patients, while augmenting the expression of the c-Met receptor in fibroblasts from black SSc-ILD patients replicates the effects of rosiglitazone seen in whites. We conclude that PPARγagonists warrant consideration as potential antifibrotic drugs in patients with SSc-ILD. Differential therapeutic effects might be anticipated especially relative to racial differences and the functional expression of the c-Met receptor.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Link between Nuclear Receptor Function and Cholesterol Gallstone Formation
Authors: Vázquez Mary Carmen , Rigotti Attilio , Zanlungo Silvana
Published: November 2011

Cholesterol gallstone disease is highly prevalent in western countries, particularly in women and some specific ethnic groups. The formation of water-insoluble cholesterol crystals is due to a misbalance between the three major lipids present in the bile: cholesterol, bile salts, and phospholipids. Many proteins implicated in biliary lipid secretion in the liver are regulated by several transcription factors, including nuclear receptors LXR and FXR. Human and murine genetic, physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological evidence is consistent with the relevance of these nuclear receptors in gallstone formation. In addition, there is emerging data that also suggests a role for estrogen receptor ESR1 in abnormal cholesterol metabolism leading to gallstone disease. A better comprehension of the role of nuclear receptor function in gallstone formation may help to design new and more effective therapeutic strategies for this highly prevalent disease condition.
pth Mean Practical Stability for Large‐Scale Itô Stochastic Systems with Markovian Switching
Authors: Yun Yan , Shu Huisheng , Che Yan
Published: October 2011

Motivated by the study of a class of large‐scale stochastic systems with Markovian switching, this correspondence paper is concerned with the practical stability in the pth mean. By investigating Lyapunov‐like functions and the basic comparison principle, some criteria are derived for various types of practical stability in the pth mean of nonlinear stochastic systems. The main contribution of these results is to convert the problem of practical stability in the pth mean of stochastic systems into the one of practical stability of the comparative deterministic systems.
Dementia Home Care Resources: How Are We Managing?
Authors: Ward-Griffin Catherine , Hall Jodi , DeForge Ryan , St-Amant Oona , McWilliam Carol , Oudshoorn Abram , Forbes Dorothy , Klosek Marita
Published: October 2011

With the number of people living with dementia expected to more than double within the next 25 years, the demand for dementia home care services will increase. In this critical ethnographic study, we drew upon interview and participant data with persons with dementia, family caregivers, in-home providers, and case managers in nine dementia care networks to examine the management of dementia home care resources. Three interrelated, dialectical themes were identified: (1)finite formal care-inexhaustible familial care,(2)accessible resources rhetoric-Iinaccessible resources reality,and (3)diminishing care resources-increasing care needs. The development of policies and practices that provideavailable, accessible, andappropriateresources, ensuringequitable, not necessarily equal, distribution of dementia care resources is required if we are to meet the goal of aging in place now and in the future.
Lysophosphatidylcholine: A Novel Modulator ofTrypanosoma cruziTransmission
Authors: Silva-Neto Mário A. C. , Carneiro Alan B. , Silva-Cardoso Livia , Atella Georgia C.
Published: November 2011

Lysophosphatidylcholine is a bioactive lipid that regulates a large number of cellular processes and is especially present during the deposition and infiltration of inflammatory cells and deposition of atheromatous plaque. Such molecule is also present in saliva and feces of the hematophagous organismRhodnius prolixus, a triatominae bug vector of Chagas disease. We have recently demonstrated that LPC is a modulator ofTrypanosoma cruzitransmission. It acts as a powerful chemoattractant for inflammatory cells at the site of the insect bite, which will provide a concentrated population of cells available for parasite infection. Also, LPC increases macrophage intracellular calcium concentrations that ultimately enhance parasite invasion. Finally, LPC inhibits NO production by macrophages stimulated by liveT. cruzi, and thus interferes with the immune system of the vertebrate host. In the present paper, we discuss the main signaling mechanisms that are likely used by such molecule and their eventual use as targets to block parasite transmission and the pathogenesis of Chagas disease.
Stability of Jensen‐Type Functional Equations on Restricted Domains in a Group and Their Asymptotic Behaviors
Authors: Chung Jae-Young , Kim Dohan , Rassias John Michael
Published: October 2011

We consider the Hyers‐Ulam stability problems for the Jensen‐type functional equations in general restricted domains. The main purpose of this paper is to find the restricted domains for which the functional inequality satisfied in those domains extends to the inequality for whole domain. As consequences of the results we obtain asymptotic behavior of the equations.
The Putative Role of the Antiageing Protein Klotho in Cardiovascular and Renal Disease
Authors: Maltese Giuseppe , Karalliedde Janaka
Published: October 2011

Ageing is a multifactorial process often characterized by a progressive decline in physiological function(s). Ageing can and is often associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular and renal disease. Klotho is a novel antiageing gene that encodes a protein with multiple pleiotropic functions including an emerging role in cardiorenal disease. Mice deficient for this gene display a phenotype of premature human ageing characterized by diffuse vascular calcification, altered calcium/phosphate metabolism, and shortened lifespan. Klotho is mainly expressed in the renal tubules but it also exists as circulating soluble form detectable in the blood, with systemic effects. Reduction in soluble Klotho has been associated with renal disease, hyperphosphataemia, increased oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and diffuse vascular calcification. Conversely, overexpression of Klotho promotes cardiovascular-renal protection. The majority of the research on Klotho has been conducted in vitro and in animal studies but there is emerging data from human studies which suggest that Klotho may be a modifiable factor involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and renal disease in at-risk populations. Further data is required to confirm if this novel protein can emerge as therapeutic tool that may be used to prevent or slow progression of cardiorenal disease.
PMK-2, the First Integral Thermal-Hydraulics Tests for the Safety Evaluation of VVER-440/213 Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Ézsöl Gy. , Perneczky L. , Szabados L. , Tóth I.
Published: October 2011

The PMK-2 facility is a full-pressure thermal-hydraulic model of the primary and partly the secondary circuit of the VVER-type units of Paks NPP. The facility was the first integral-type facility for VVERs. The PMK-2 was followed later by the PACTEL (for VVER-440), the ISB, and PSB for VVER-1000. Since the startup of the facility in 1985, 55 experiments have been performed primarily in international frameworks with the participation of experts from 29 European and overseas countries forming a scientific school to better understand VVER system behaviour and reach a high level of modelling of accident sequences. The ATHLET, CATHARE, and RELAP5 codes have been validated including both qualitative and quantitative assessments. The former was almost exclusively applied to the early phase of validation by integral experiments, while the quantitative assessments have been performed by the Fast Fourier Transform Based Method. Paper gives comprehensive information on the design features of PMK-2 facility with a special respect to the representativeness of phenomena, the experiments performed, and the results of the validation of ATHLET, CATHARE, and RELAP5 codes. Safety significance of the PMK-2 projects is also discussed.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity ofDelonix regia(Boj. Ex. Hook)
Authors: Shewale Vaishali D. , Deshmukh Tushar A. , Patil Liladhar S. , Patil Vijay R.
Published: November 2011

The present work was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity ofDelonix regialeaves (Family: Caesalpiniaceae). The powder ofDelonix regialeaves was subjected to extraction with ethanol in soxhlet extractor. The ethanol extract after preliminary phytochemical investigation showed the presence of sterols, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The anti-inflammatory activity was studied using carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and cotton pellet granuloma at a three different doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg b.w. p.o.) of ethanol extract. The ethanol extract ofDelonix regialeaves was exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity at the dose of 400 mg/kg in both models when compared with control group. Indomethacin (10 mg/kg b.w. p.o) was also shown significant anti-inflammatory activity in both models.
Whole Grains, Legumes, and the Subsequent Meal Effect: Implications for Blood Glucose Control and the Role of Fermentation
Authors: Higgins Janine A.
Published: October 2011

Whole grains and legumes are known to reduce postprandial glycemia and, in some instances, insulinemia. However, the subsequent meal effect of ingesting whole grains and legumes is less well known. That is, inclusion of whole grains or legumes at breakfast decreases postprandial glycemia at lunch and/or dinner on the same day whereas consumption of a whole grain or lentil dinner reduces glycemia at breakfast the following morning. This effect is lost upon milling, processing, and cooking at high temperatures. The subsequent meal effect has important implications for the control of day-long blood glucose, and may be partly responsible for the reduction in diabetes incidence associated with increased whole grain and legume intake. This paper describes the subsequent meal effect and explores the role of acute glycemia, presence of resistant starch, and fermentation of indigestible carbohydrate as the mechanisms responsible for this effect.
Regulation of RAGE for Attenuating Progression of Diabetic Vascular Complications
Authors: Win Myat Thu Thu , Yamamoto Yasuhiko , Munesue Seiichi , Saito Hidehito , Han Dong , Motoyoshi So , Kamal Tarek , Ohara Takuro , Watanabe Takuo , Yamamoto Hiroshi
Published: October 2011

Diabetic angiopathy including micro- and macroangiopathy is concerned with high rate of morbidity and mortality in patients with long-standing diabetes. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and its ligands have been considered as important pathogenic triggers for the progression of the vascular injuries in diabetes. The deleterious link between RAGE and diabetic angiopathy has been demonstrated in animal studies. Preventive and therapeutic strategies focusing on RAGE and its ligand axis may be of great importance in relieving diabetic vascular complications and reducing the burden of disease.
Host Cell Autophagy in Immune Response to Zoonotic Infections
Authors: Skendros Panagiotis , Mitroulis Ioannis
Published: October 2011

Autophagy is a fundamental homeostatic process in which cytoplasmic targets are sequestered within double-membraned autophagosomes and subsequently delivered to lysosomes for degradation. Accumulating evidence supports the pivotal role of autophagy in host defense against intracellular pathogens implicating both innate and adaptive immunity. Many of these pathogens cause common zoonotic infections worldwide. The induction of the autophagic machinery by innate immune receptors signaling, such as TLRs, NOD1/2, and p62/SQSTM1 in antigen-presenting cells results in inhibition of survival and elimination of invading pathogens. Furthermore, Th1 cytokines induce the autophagic process, whereas autophagy also contributes to antigen processing and MHC class II presentation, linking innate to adaptive immunity. However, several pathogens have developed strategies to avoid autophagy or exploit autophagic machinery to their advantage. This paper focuses on the role of host cell autophagy in the regulation of immune response against intracellular pathogens, emphasizing on selected bacterial and protozoan zoonoses.
Annual and Seasonal Changes in the Structure of Litter-Dwelling Ant Assemblages (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Atlantic Semideciduous Forests
Authors: Castro Flávio Siqueira de , Gontijo Alexandre Bahia , Castro Paulo de Tarso Amorim , Ribeiro Sérvio Pontes
Published: October 2011

We surveyed ant fauna in the leaf litter in an Atlantic Semideciduous forest in the State Park of Rio Doce (PERD). The work aimed to produce basic information about habitat effects on diversity, as well as about how the ant fauna in a such buffered forest habitat, as the litter layer, could respond the climate variation in a short and long term. We sampled two years in two distinct forest physiognomies, which respond to different geomorphologic backgrounds, in dry and rainy seasons. Species composition, richness and abundance of these forests were distinct. However, both forests hosted similar numbers of rare and specialized, habitat demanding species, thus suggesting both are similarly well preserved, despite distinct physiognomies. However, the lower and more open forest was, more susceptible to dry season effects, showing a steeper decline in species numbers in such season, but similar numbers in the wet seasons. The pattern varied between years, which corroborates the hypothesis of a strongly variable community in response to subtle climatic variation among years. The present results are baselines for future long term monitoring projects, and could support protocols for early warnings of global climatic changes effects on biodiversity.