bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intangible heritage governance, cultural diversity, ethno-nationalism
Authors: Taylor Mary N.
Published: November 2009

Since the early 1990s, language used to speak of cultural practices once thought of as "folklore" has become increasingly standardized around the term intangible heritage. Supranational intangible heritage policies promote a contradictory package that aims to preserve local identity and cultural diversity while promoting democratic values and economic development. Such efforts may contribute to the deployment of language that stresses mutual exclusivity and incommensurability, with important consequences for individual and group access to resources. This article examines these tensions with ethnographic attention to a Hungarian folk revival movement, illuminating how local histories of "heritage protection" meet with the global norm of heritage governance in complicated ways. I suggest the paradoxical predicament that both "liberal" notions of diversity and ethno-national boundaries are co-produced through a number of processes in late capitalism, most notably connected to changing relations of property and citizenship regimes.
Trading places
Authors: Humphrey Caroline , Skvirskaja Vera
Published: November 2009

This article discusses a vast, new and semi-legal marketplace of shipping containers on the outskirts of Odessa, Ukraine. It is suggested that such markets, which have sprung up at several places in post-socialist space where routes intersect, have certain features in common with mediaeval trade fairs. However, today's markets have their own specificities in relation to state and legal regimes, migration, and the cities to which they are semi-attached. The article analyzes the Seventh Kilometer Market (Sed'moi) near Odessa as a particular socio-mythical space. It affords it own kind of protection and opportunities to traders, but these structures may be unstable in a changing economic climate.
Jonathan Friedman and the "insurrection of subjugated knowledges"
Authors: Reyna Stephen
Published: November 2009

This article analyzes certain aspects of the work of Jonathan Friedman, especially as they are relevant to an "insurrection of subjugated knowledges" that Foucault imagined began in the 1960s. The article traces Friedman's critique of Marvin Harris's cultural materialism and of Edmund Leach's interpretation of highland Burma's socio-political systems. It discusses Friedman's pioneering development of global systems theory based on an integration of Marxist and Lévi-Straussian structuralism. Finally, it argues the insurrection that Foucault spoke of was febrile, and suggests how Friedman's work might be employed to help develop a fiercer struggle against subjugation.
Restoration of erect posture by deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus in disabling dystonic spinal hyperextension
Authors: Sakas Damianos E. , Stavrinou Lampis C. , Boviatsis Efstathios J. , Stathis Pantelis , Themistocleous Marios , Gatzonis Stylianos
Published: November 2009

Dystonia is a movement disorder notoriously difficult to treat. While primary dystonia is classically considered to respond well to deep brain stimulation (DBS), treatment of secondary dystonia yields variable results. Patient selection should be done on a case-by-case basis. Clearly, there is a need to accumulate additional information with regard to prognostic factors that may aid neurosurgeons in selecting those patients in whom the disorder is most likely to respond favorably to pallidal DBS.

The authors report the case of a 29-year-old man with secondary dystonia due to perinatal hypoxia. The most prominent symptom was what we have termed ectatocormia—that is, severe, fixed truncal hyperextension and retrocollis, exacerbated by phasic, twisting movements of the trunk and head. This made it impossible for the patient to maintain a normal upright posture or to walk. The patient underwent bilateral DBS of the globus pallidus internus (GPi), and the authors observed impressive improvement in motor abilities and function. The patient's body adopted the normal upright posture and he became able to walk again, 4 months after the commencement of GPi stimulation.

This report, along with others, emphasizes that the GPi as an ideal target for alleviating axial tonic symptoms. The presence of normal MR imaging findings, a phenotypical purity of predominantly dystonic symptoms, and a younger age seem to favor a positive outcome.
The differential effects of pathway- versus target-derived glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor on peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Magill Christina K. , Moore Amy M. , Yan Ying , Tong Alice Y. , MacEwan Matthew R. , Yee Andrew , Hayashi Ayato , Hunter Daniel A. , Ray Wilson Z. , Johnson Philip J. , Parsadanian Alexander , Myckatyn Terence M. , Mackinnon Susan E.
Published: November 2009

Object

Glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) has potent survival effects on central and peripheral nerve populations. The authors examined the differential effects of GDNF following either a sciatic nerve crush injury in mice that overexpressed GDNF in the central or peripheral nervous systems (glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP]–GDNF) or in the muscle target (Myo-GDNF).

Methods

Adult mice (GFAP-GDNF, Myo-GDNF, or wild-type [WT] animals) underwent sciatic nerve crush and were evaluated using histomorphometry and muscle force and power testing. Uninjured WT animals served as controls.

Results

In the sciatic nerve crush, the Myo-GDNF mice demonstrated a higher number of nerve fibers, fiber density, and nerve percentage (p < 0.05) at 2 weeks. The early regenerative response did not result in superlative functional recovery. At 3 weeks, GFAP-GDNF animals exhibit fewer nerve fibers, decreased fiber width, and decreased nerve percentage compared with WT and Myo-GDNF mice (p < 0.05). By 6 weeks, there were no significant differences between groups.

Conclusions

Peripheral delivery of GDNF resulted in earlier regeneration following sciatic nerve crush injuries than that with central GDNF delivery. Treatment with neurotrophic factors such as GDNF may offer new possibilities for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury.
Negative effect of hypopituitarism following brain trauma in patients with diffuse axonal injury
Authors: Jeong Jae Hyun , Kim Young Zoon , Cho Yong Woon , Kim Joon Soo
Published: November 2009

Object

The aim of this prospective observational study was to assess the incidence and pattern of hypopituitarism after diffuse axonal injury (DAI) and to identify its effect on these patients in terms of functional outcome.

Methods

Of 1307 patients with traumatic brain injury treated at the authors' institution between March 2005 and June 2008, 65 patients with DAI were enrolled in the present study. The authors determined basal hormone levels, initial Glasgow Coma Scale scores, the Marshall CT grades, the presence of abnormal signal intensity indicating lesions on MR images, and duration of unconsciousness. At the 6-month follow-up visits, functional outcomes were estimated using the Modified Barthel Index. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors that influenced functional outcomes.

Results

Twenty-one patients with hypopituitarism (Group A) had more lesions in the body of the corpus callosum, basal ganglia, thalamus, and the gray–white matter junction than those without hypopituitarism (Group B). In Group A, growth hormone deficiency (17 patients, 80.9%) was the most common, and multiple pituitary hormone deficiencies were found in 12 patients (57.1%). The mean Modified Barthel Index score at the 6-month follow-up was 64.7 in Group A and 88.5 in Group B (p = 0.027). Duration of unconsciousness (p = 0.035), the Marshall CT grade (p = 0.021), hypopituitarism (p = 0.044), and abnormal signal intensities on MR imaging in midline or deep structures of the brain (p = 0.001) were found to be associated with functional outcome.

Conclusions

The findings in this prospective observational study suggest that hypopituitarism in patients with DAI has a relationship not only with injuries in the midline or deep structures of the brain, but also with a poor outcome.
Eclampsia: Background of the sufferer
Authors: Akhtar Rowshan , Sidiqua Shamima
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i1.3812Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(1):6-8
Knowledge and status of Hepatitis B vaccination among the newly admitted MBBS students in Chittagong Medical College
Authors: Sayeed Md Abu , Ahmed Shahriar , Siraji Dilruba , Hoque Md Gofranul
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i1.3813Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(1):9-11
Comparative study of double phototherapy (conventional plus biliblanket) verses conventional single phototherapy in the management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Barua Chiranjib , Shahidullah Md , Mannan MA , Noor Khaled , Barua Sharmila , Mutanabbi M , Ali Md Suhrab
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i2.3826Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(2):21-25
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A review
Authors: Ahmed Syed Mozaffor , Salek AK Mohammad , Khan Moniruzzamn , Rizvi Abu Nasar , Shakoor Md Abdus , Hasan Suzon Al
Published: November 2009

Key words: carpal tunnel syndrome; management; reviewdoi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i2.3834Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(2):32-36
Laboratory investigations of enteric fever in children: An update
Authors: Das Jagadish C
Published: November 2009

Key words: enteric fever; investigation; children; blood culture; Widal Testdoi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i2.3835Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(2):37-42
Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria a rare haematological disorder - literature review and case report
Authors: Rabbani Mohammad Golam , Rahman Jalilur , Chowdhury MA Wahhab , Afrose Salma , Rahman Mahbubur
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i2.3838Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(2):49-52
Estimation of IL-6 in CSF for the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Husain Anwar , Mazed M Abdul , Haque Mahmudal
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v18i2.3839Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2007: 18(2):53-57
Ureterorenoscopy and pneumatic lithotripsy in the management of ureteral calculus
Authors: Hossain GM Zakir , Hasan Md Rashedul , Rahman Mofizur , Ahmed Mina
Published: November 2009

Key words: ureterorenoscopy; pneumatic lithotripsy; ureteric stone; spinal anaesthesisdoi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v19i1.3844Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2008: 19(1):11-14
Atherosclerotic changes in the diagonal arteries of the heart of Bangladeshi male - a post mortem study
Authors: Moinuddin AKM , Yousuf BM Ali , Islam Md Shaikul
Published: November 2009

Key words: diagonal artery; age-at-death of subject; atherosclerosisdoi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v19i1.3847Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2008: 19(1):20-22
Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern of bacterial isolates causing meningitis
Authors: Sultana Nahid , Husain Md Anwar , Mazed Md Abdul , Akter Nasima , Sultan Md Tipu , Hoque Md Ehsanul
Published: November 2009

doi: 10.3329/jcmcta.v19i1.3849Journal of Chittagong Medical College Teachers' Association 2008: 19(1):28-32
Exact and Heuristic Algorithms for Thrift Cyclic Scheduling
Authors: Short Michael  J.
Published: November 2009

Non-preemptive schedulers, despite their many discussed drawbacks, remain a very popular choice for practitioners of real-time and embedded systems. The non-preemptive ‘thrift’ cyclic scheduler—variations of which can be found in other application areas—has recently received considerable attention for the implementation of such embedded systems. A thrift scheduler provides a flexible and compact implementation model for periodic task sets with comparatively small overheads; additionally, it can overcome several of the problems associated with traditional ‘cyclic executives’. However, severe computational difficulties can still arise when designing schedules for non-trivial task sets. This paper is concerned with an optimization version of the offset-assignment problem, in which the objective is to assign task offsets such that the required CPU clock speed is minimized whilst ensuring that task overruns do not occur; it is known that the decision version of this problem is complete for Σ2p. The paper first considers the problemof candidate solution verification—itself strongly coNP-Complete—and a fast, exact algorithm for this problem is proposed; it is shown that for any fixed number of tasks, its execution time is polynomial. The paper then proposes two heuristic algorithms of pseudopolynomial complexity for solving the offset-assignment problem, and considers how redundant choices of offset combinations can be eliminated to help speed up the search. The performance of these algorithms is then experimentally evaluated, before conclusions are drawn.
A Weighted Generalized Maximum Entropy Estimator with a Data-driven Weight
Authors: Wu Ximing
Published: November 2009

The method of Generalized Maximum Entropy (GME), proposed in Golan, Judge and Miller (1996), is an information-theoretic approach that is robust to multicolinearity problem. It uses an objective function that is the sum of the entropies for coefficient distributions and disturbance distributions. This method can be generalized to the weighted GME (W-GME), where different weights are assigned to the two entropies in the objective function. We propose a data-driven method to select the weights in the entropy objective function. We use the least squares cross validation to derive the optimal weights. MonteCarlo simulations demonstrate that the proposedW-GME estimator is comparable to and often outperforms the conventional GME estimator, which places equal weights on the entropies of coefficient and disturbance distributions.
Health Economic Assessment: A Methodological Primer
Authors: Simoens Steven
Published: November 2009

This review article aims to provide an introduction to the methodology of health economic assessment of a health technology. Attention is paid to defining the fundamental concepts and terms that are relevant to health economic assessments. The article describes the methodology underlying a cost study (identification, measurement and valuation of resource use, calculation of costs), an economic evaluation (type of economic evaluation, the cost-effectiveness plane, trial- and model-based economic evaluation, discounting, sensitivity analysis, incremental analysis), and a budget impact analysis. Key references are provided for those readers who wish a more advanced understanding of health economic assessments.
Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Cosmetologists
Authors: Tsigonia Alexandra , Tanagra Dimitra , Linos Athena , Merekoulias Georgios , Alexopoulos Evangelos C.
Published: November 2009

A cross-sectional study was performed to investigate the relationships between physical, psychosocial, and individual characteristics and different endpoints of low back, neck, shoulder, hand/wrist and knee musculoskeletal complaints among cosmetologists in Athens, Greece. The study population consisted of 95 female and seven male beauty therapists (response rate 90%) with a mean age and duration of employment of 38 and 16 years, respectively. Neck pain was the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaint, reported by 58% of the subjects, while hand/wrist and low back complaints resulted more frequently in self-reported consequences (chronicity, care seeking and absenteeism). Significant relationships were found between self-reported physical risk factors like prolonged sitting, use of vibrating tools, reaching far and awkward body postures and the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders at various body sites. Among psychosocial variables co-worker support and skill discretion seem to be the most important reflecting organizational problems and cognitive-behavioral aspects. The study results also suggest that effective intervention strategies most likely have to take into account both ergonomic improvements and organizational aspects.
New 1-(4-nitrophenyl)-5,5’-diisopropyl-3,3’-bipyrazole
Authors: Bouabdallah Ibrahim , Zidane Ismail , Touzani Rachid , Ramdani Abdelkrim , Jalbout Abraham F. , Trzaskowski B.
Published: November 2009

To a solution of 5,5’-diisopropyl-3,3’-bipyrazole 1 [1] (109 mg, 0.5 mmol) in DMSO (2 ml) was added solid potassium tert-butoxide (61 mg, 0.5 mmol) followed by addition of 4-fluoronitrobenzene (70.5 mg, 0.5 mmol) in DMSO (1 ml) through a syringe, according to literature procedure [2].[...]
Nanodimensional and Nanocrystalline Apatites and Other Calcium Orthophosphates in Biomedical Engineering, Biology and Medicine
Authors: Dorozhkin Sergey V.
Published: November 2009

Recent developments in biomineralization have already demonstrated that nanosized particles play an important role in the formation of hard tissues of animals. Namely, the basic inorganic building blocks of bones and teeth of mammals are nanodimensional and nanocrystalline calcium orthophosphates (in the form of apatites) of a biological origin. In mammals, tens to hundreds nanocrystals of a biological apatite were found to be combined into self-assembled structures under the control of various bioorganic matrixes. In addition, the structures of both dental enamel and bones could be mimicked by an oriented aggregation of nanosized calcium orthophosphates, determined by the biomolecules. The application and prospective use of nanodimensional and nanocrystalline calcium orthophosphates for a clinical repair of damaged bones and teeth are also known. For example, a greater viability and a better proliferation of various types of cells were detected on smaller crystals of calcium orthophosphates. Thus, the nanodimensional and nanocrystalline forms of calcium orthophosphates have a great potential to revolutionize the field of hard tissue engineering starting from bone repair and augmentation to the controlled drug delivery devices. This paper reviews current state of knowledge and recent developments of this subject starting from the synthesis and characterization to biomedical and clinical applications. More to the point, this review provides possible directions of future research and development.
A Facile Synthesis of 2,4-Disubstituted Thiazoles Using MnO2
Authors: Yu Yan-Bo , Chen Hong-Liang , Wang Li-Yi , Chen Xin-Zheng , Fu Bin
Published: November 2009

Structurally diverse thiazoles with electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups were conveniently synthesized through manganese dioxide (MnO2) oxidation of the corresponding thiazolines. The effect of substitution at the 2- and 4-positions was investigated. The desired thiazoles with aryl or vinyl substitutions at the 2- or 4-position can be obtained in good to excellent yields.
Dietary Supplementation with Conjugated Linoleic Acid Plus n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Increases Food Intake and Brown Adipose Tissue in Rats
Authors: Sneddon Alan A. , Rayner D. Vernon , Mitchell Sharon E. , Bashir Shabina , Ha Jung-Heun , Wahle Klaus W. , Morris Amanda C. , Williams Lynda M.
Published: November 2009

The effect of supplementation with 1% conjugated linoleic acid and 1% n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (CLA/n-3) was assessed in rats. Food intake increased with no difference in body weights. White adipose tissue weights were reduced whereas brown adipose tissue and uncoupling protein-1 expression were increased. Plasma adiponectin, triglyceride and cholesterol levels were reduced while leptin, ghrelin and liver weight and lipid content were unchanged. Hypothalamic gene expression measurements revealed increased expression of orexigenic and decreased expression of anorexigenic signals. Thus, CLA/n-3 increases food intake without affecting body weight potentially through increasing BAT size and up-regulating UCP-1 in rats.
Enhanced Automated Canopy Characterization from Hyperspectral Data by a Novel Two Step Radiative Transfer Model Inversion Approach
Authors: Dorigo Wouter , Richter Rudolf , Baret Frédéric , Bamler Richard , Wagner Wolfgang
Published: November 2009

Automated, image based methods for the retrieval of vegetation biophysical and biochemical variables are often hampered by the lack of a priori knowledge about land cover and phenology, which makes the retrieval a highly underdetermined problem. This study addresses this problem by presenting a novel approach, called CRASh, for the concurrent retrieval of leaf area index, leaf chlorophyll content, leaf water content and leaf dry matter content from high resolution solar reflective earth observation data. CRASh, which is based on the inversion of the combined PROSPECT+SAILh radiative transfer model (RTM), explores the benefits of combining semi-empirical and physically based approaches. The approach exploits novel ways to address the underdetermined problem in the context of an automated retrieval from mono-temporal high resolution data. To regularize the inverse problem in the variable domain, RTM inversion is coupled with an automated land cover classification. Model inversion is based on a two step lookup table (LUT) approach: First, a range of possible solutions is selected from a previously calculated LUT based on the analogy between measured and simulated reflectance. The final solution is determined from this subset by minimizing the difference between the variables used to simulate the spectra contained in the reduced LUT and a first guess of the solution. This first guess of the variables is derived from predictive semi-empirical relationships between classical vegetation indices and the single variables. Additional spectral regularization is obtained by the use of hyperspectral data. Results show that estimates obtained with CRASh are significantly more accurate than those obtained with a tested conventional RTM inversion and semi-empirical approach. Accuracies obtained in this study are comparable to the results obtained by various authors for better constrained inversions that assume more a priori information. The completely automated and image-based nature of the approach facilitates its use in operational chains for upcoming high resolution airborne and spaceborne imaging spectrometers.
Non-Linearity in Wide Dynamic Range CMOS Image Sensors Utilizing a Partial Charge Transfer Technique
Authors: Shafie Suhaidi , Kawahito Shoji , Halin Izhal Abdul , Hasan Wan Zuha Wan
Published: November 2009

The partial charge transfer technique can expand the dynamic range of a CMOS image sensor by synthesizing two types of signal, namely the long and short accumulation time signals. However the short accumulation time signal obtained from partial transfer operation suffers of non-linearity with respect to the incident light. In this paper, an analysis of the non-linearity in partial charge transfer technique has been carried, and the relationship between dynamic range and the non-linearity is studied. The results show that the non-linearity is caused by two factors, namely the current diffusion, which has an exponential relation with the potential barrier, and the initial condition of photodiodes in which it shows that the error in the high illumination region increases as the ratio of the long to the short accumulation time raises. Moreover, the increment of the saturation level of photodiodes also increases the error in the high illumination region.
A Featured-Based Strategy for Stereovision Matching in Sensors with Fish-Eye Lenses for Forest Environments
Authors: Herrera Pedro Javier , Pajares Gonzalo , Guijarro Maria , Ruz José J. , Cruz Jesús M. , Montes Fernando
Published: November 2009

This paper describes a novel feature-based stereovision matching process based on a pair of omnidirectional images in forest stands acquired with a stereovision sensor equipped with fish-eye lenses. The stereo analysis problem consists of the following steps: image acquisition, camera modelling, feature extraction, image matching and depth determination. Once the depths of significant points on the trees are obtained, the growing stock volume can be estimated by considering the geometrical camera modelling, which is the final goal. The key steps are feature extraction and image matching. This paper is devoted solely to these two steps. At a first stage a segmentation process extracts the trunks, which are the regions used as features, where each feature is identified through a set of attributes of properties useful for matching. In the second step the features are matched based on the application of the following four well known matching constraints, epipolar, similarity, ordering and uniqueness. The combination of the segmentation and matching processes for this specific kind of sensors make the main contribution of the paper. The method is tested with satisfactory results and compared against the human expert criterion.
DNA Hybridization Sensors Based on Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy as a Detection Tool
Authors: Park Jin-Young , Park Su-Moon
Published: November 2009

Recent advances in label free DNA hybridization sensors employing electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) as a detection tool are reviewed. These sensors are based on the modulation of the blocking ability of an electrode modified with a probe DNA by an analyte, i.e., target DNA. The probe DNA is immobilized on a self-assembled monolayer, a conducting polymer film, or a layer of nanostructures on the electrode such that desired probe DNA would selectively hybridize with target DNA. The rate of charge transfer from the electrode thus modified to a redox indicator, e.g., [Fe(CN)6]3–/4–, which is measured by EIS in the form of charge transfer resistance (Rct), is modulated by whether or not, as well as how much, the intended target DNA is selectively hybridized. Efforts made to enhance the selectivity as well as the sensitivity of DNA sensors and to reduce the EIS measurement time are briefly described along with brief future perspectives in developing DNA sensors.
Investment in Sustainable Development: A UK Perspective on the Business and Academic Challenges
Authors: Garland Nigel , Hadfield Mark , Howarth George , Middleton David
Published: November 2009

There are many legislative, stakeholder and supply chain pressures on business to be more ‘sustainable’. Universities have recognised the need for graduate knowledge and understanding of sustainable development issues. Many businesses and universities have responded and introduced Sustainable Development models into their operations with much of the current effort directed at climate change. However, as the current worldwide financial crisis slowly improves, the expectations upon how businesses operate and behave are changing. It will require improved transparency and relationships with all stakeholders, which is the essence of sustainable development. The challenges and opportunities for both business and universities are to understand the requirements of sustainable development and the transformation that is required. They should ensure that knowledge is embedded within the culture of the organisation and wider society in order to achieve a sustainable future.
Testing Group Symmetry of a Multivariate Distribution
Authors: Sakhanenko Lyudmila
Published: November 2009

We propose and study a general class of tests for group symmetry of a multivariate distribution, which encompasses different types of symmetry, such as ellipsoidal and permutation symmetries among others. Our approach is based on supremum norms of special empirical processes combined with bootstrap. We show that these tests are consistent against any fixed alternative. This work generalizes the methodology of Koltchinskii and Sakhanenko [7], developed for ellipsoidal symmetry to the case of group symmetry. It also provides a unified approach to testing different types of symmetry of a multivariate distribution.
Hepatitis B virus genotype B has an earlier emergence of lamivudine resistance than genotype C
Authors: Hsieh Ting-Hui , Tseng Tai-Chung , Liu Chun-Jen , Lai Ming-Yang , Chen Pei-Jer , Hsieh Hsin-Ling , Chen Ding-Shinn , Kao Jia-Horng
Published: November 2009

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype B and C seem not to affect the therapeutic response to lamivudine (3TC). Whether a given genotype has an earlier emergence of 3TC resistance remains unclear. We thus conducted this study to elucidate the association of HBV genotype with the emergence of 3TC-resistant strains in Taiwanese patients.

Methods

Forty chronic hepatitis B patients who developed resistance after 3TC therapy were retrospectively enrolled. HBV genotype, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and HBV DNA levels were determined at baseline. The presence of 3TC-resistant mutations was confirmed by direct sequencing whenever biochemical breakthrough developed.

Results

The distribution of HBV genotype B and C in 40 patients receiving 3TC therapy were 60% and 40%, respectively. The mean interval to detect 3TC- resistant strain was 19.6 ±1.7 months. By using multivariate analysis, HBV genotype B and higher pre-treatment HBV DNA level were independently associated with earlier detection of 3TC-resistant strains. In addition, genotype B was significantly associated with development of 3TC resistance within the first 12 months of 3TC therapy compared with genotype C (odds ratio 8.27; P=0.004).

Conclusions

Compared with HBV genotype C, genotype B appears to have an earlier biochemical resistance to 3TC than genotype C. Therefore, more frequent monitoring of viral load or genotypical resistance might be needed for patients with HBV genotype B infection receiving 3TC therapy, especially during the first year.
Microstructure and Compression Strength of Novel TRIP‐Steel/Mg‐PSZ Composites
Authors: Biermann Horst , Martin Ulrich , Aneziris Christos G. , Kolbe Anja , Müller Angelika , Schärfl Wolfgang , Herrmann Mathias
Published: November 2009

Novel composites on basis of austenitic stainless TRIP‐steel as matrix with reinforcements of Mg‐PSZ are presented. Compact rods were produced by cold isostatic pressing and sintering, square honeycomb samples by the ceramic extrusion technique. The samples are characterized by optical and scanning electron microscopy before and after deformation, showing the microstructure and the deformation‐ induced martensite formation. The mechanical properties of samples with 5 vol% zirconia are superior compared to zirconia‐free samples and composites with higher zirconia contents in terms of bending and compression tests. The honeycomb samples exhibit extraordinary high specific energy absorption in compression.
Two‐ and Three‐Dimensional Micro‐ and Sub‐Micrometer Periodic Structures Using Two‐Beam Laser Interference Lithography
Authors: Lasagni A. F. , Menéndez‐Ormaza B. S.
Published: November 2009

In this study, we present different approaches for the fabrication of two and three dimensional structures using two‐beam interference lithography. The advantages of using more than one irradiation step for the fabrication of complex structures are theoretically demonstrated by avoiding the introduction of line effects. For the fabrication of 3D structures, two alternatives are discussed including a layer by layer approach as well as a multidimensional (non‐orthogonal) interference exposure setup. Finally, an example of biomimetic patterning is given. In all cases, numerical calculations showed a good agreement with the experimental results, being able to explain the shape of the fabricated structures.
Synthesis and Characterization of Electrospun Mullite Nanofibers
Authors: Wu Jiang , Lin Hong , Li Jianbao , Zhan Xiaobo , Li Junfeng
Published: November 2009

In this study, continuous mullite (3Al2O3·2SiO2) nanofibers were fabricated by sol–gel and electrospinning techniques and calcined at high temperatures to obtain pure ceramic mullite nanofibers. Detail structural characterizations suggested that the productive rate of electrospun mullite nanofibers were very high and the sintered nanofibers were made of single crystalline grains with size of ∼100 nm.
Exchangeable claim sizes in a compound Poisson‐type process
Authors: Mena Ramsés H. , Nieto‐Barajas Luis E.
Published: November 2009

When dealing with risk models the typical assumption of independence among claim size distributions is not always satisfied. Here we consider the case when the claim sizes are exchangeable and study the implications when constructing aggregated claims through compound Poisson‐type processes. In particular, exchangeability is achieved through conditional independence, using parametric and nonparametric measures for the conditioning distribution. Bayes' theorem is employed to ensure an arbitrary but fixed marginal distribution for the claim sizes. A full Bayesian analysis of the proposed model is illustrated with a panel‐type data set coming from a Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stem cell separation: A bottleneck in stem cell therapy
Authors: Schriebl Kornelia , Lim Shereen , Choo Andre , Tscheliessnig Anne , Jungbauer Alois
Published: November 2009

The substantial progress in embryonic stem cell (ESC) research could lead to new possibilities in the treatment of various diseases. Currently, applications of ESC for cell therapy are impeded by the presence of potentially teratoma‐forming undifferentiated ESC. Thus, a selective and quantitative removal of undifferentiated ESC from a pool of differentiated and undifferentiated cells is essential before cell therapy. We evaluated the highly selective magnetic activated cell sorting (MACS) method for the quantitative removal of undifferentiated ESC. We found that the clearance rates for undifferentiated ESC decreased with decreasing amount of undifferentiated ESC in the cell pool. Using a simplified model calculation we could predict that, assuming an initial purity of 60%, an estimated 31 steps are required to achieve less than 10–1 cell per 109 cells. Thus, a log clearance rate of 10, which would be necessary for a therapeutically application, is hard to achieve. Our work clearly indicates that the current MACS technology is insufficient to meet the purification needs for cell therapy.
Glucosylglycerol and glucosylglycerate as enzyme stabilizers
Authors: Sawangwan Thornthan , Goedl Christiane , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: November 2009

Compatible solutes constitute a diverse class of low‐molecular‐mass organic molecules that are accumulated in high intracellular concentrations in response to the external stress of hyperosmolality or high temperature. Many of these compounds like α, α‐trehalose are well known for their stabilizing effect on protein structure and could lead to development of more stable protein formulations. Negatively charged solutes like mannosylglycerate (R‐2‐O‐α‐D‐mannopyranosyl‐glycerate) are widespread among (hyper)thermophilic microorganisms and are thought to be exceptionally potent stabilizers of proteins under high‐temperature denaturation conditions. To further inquire into the role of compound charge for protective function, we have compared two naturally occurring and structurally related solutes, glucosylglycerol (2‐O‐α‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐sn‐glycerol) and glucosylglycerate (R‐2‐O‐α‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐glycerate), as stabilizers of different enzymes undergoing inactivation through elevated temperature or freeze drying, and benchmarked their effects against that of α,α‐trehalose. Glucosylglycerate in concentrations of ≥0.1 M was the most effective in preventing thermally induced loss of enzyme activity of lactate dehydrogenase, mannitol dehydrogenase, starch phosphorylase, and xylose reductase. α,α‐Trehalose could usually be replaced by glucosylglycerol without compromising enzyme stability. Glucosylglycerol and glucosylglycerate afforded substantial (eightfold) protection to mannitol dehydrogenase during freeze drying.
SUMOylation and cell signalling
Authors: Andreou Artemisia M. , Tavernarakis Nektarios
Published: November 2009

SUMOylation is a highly transient post‐translational protein modification. Attachment of SUMO to target proteins occurs via a number of specific activating and ligating enzymes that form the SUMO‐substrate complex, and other SUMO‐specific proteases that cleave the covalent bond, thus leaving both SUMO and target protein free for the next round of modification. SUMO modification has major effects on numerous aspects of substrate function, including subcellular localisation, regulation of their target genes, and interactions with other molecules. The modified SUMO‐protein complex is a very transient state, and it thus facilitates rapid response and actions by the cell, when needed. Like phosphorylation, acetylation and ubiquitination, SUMOylation has been associated with a number of cellular processes. In addition to its nuclear role, important sides of mitochondrial activity, stress response signalling and the decision of cells to undergo senescence or apoptosis, have now been shown to involve the SUMO pathway. With ever increasing numbers of reports linking SUMO to human disease, like neurodegeneration and cancer metastasis, it is highly likely that novel and equally important functions of components of the SUMOylation process in cell signalling pathways will be elucidated in the near future.
Accomplishments in genome‐scale in silico modeling for industrial and medical biotechnology
Authors: Milne Caroline B. , Kim Pan‐Jun , Eddy James A. , Price Nathan D.
Published: November 2009

Driven by advancements in high‐throughput biological technologies and the growing number of sequenced genomes, the construction of in silico models at the genome scale has provided powerful tools to investigate a vast array of biological systems and applications. Here, we review comprehensively the uses of such models in industrial and medical biotechnology, including biofuel generation, food production, and drug development. While the use of in silico models is still in its early stages for delivering to industry, significant initial successes have been achieved. For the cases presented here, genome‐scale models predict engineering strategies to enhance properties of interest in an organism or to inhibit harmful mechanisms of pathogens. Going forward, genome‐scale in silico models promise to extend their application and analysis scope to become a transformative tool in biotechnology.
Efficient Homogeneous Radical‐Anion Chain Reactions Initiated by Dissociative Electron Transfer to 3,3,6,6‐Tetraaryl‐1,2‐dioxanes
Authors: Stringle Donald L. B. , Magri David C. , Workentin Mark S.
Published: November 2009

A series of 3,3,6,6‐tetraaryl‐1,2‐dioxanes (TADs) have been investigated at an inert electrode by using cyclic voltammetry, constant potential electrolysis and digital simulations. The series consists of the phenyl‐substituted TAD (1 a), p‐methoxy‐aryl TADs (1 b, 1 c) and the p‐methoxy/nitro‐bearing TAD (1 d). The heterogeneous electron‐transfer (ET) reduction is dissociative, causing rupture of the oxygen–oxygen bond, which generates a distonic radical‐anion that reacts competitively either by β‐scission fragmentation or ET. Fragmentation of the distonic radical anion yields an alkene, a substituted benzophenone, and a benzophenone radical anion. The benzophenone radical‐anion propagates an efficient homogeneous ET–fragmentation chain reaction that accounts for the potential dependence of the product ratios and the low charge consumption observed in the controlled potential electrolysis experiments. Digital simulation of the experimental cyclic voltammograms allowed for estimates of the rate constants of the heterogeneous ET to the OO bond, and for the rate constants for the β‐scission fragmentation of the distonic radical‐anions. Density functional theory calculations corroborate the differences in the heterogeneous kinetics of the initial dissociative ET. The endoperoxides 1 a–1 c react predominantly by a concerted dissociative ET mechanism, although the data suggests a stepwise dissociative pathway is also competitive. Bearing a nitro‐aryl substituent, 1 d provides a rare example of an endoperoxide that proceeds by a stepwise dissociative ET mechanism. Irrespective of the initial mechanistic details, we find a propagating radical‐anion cycle is a general mechanistic feature.
Total Synthesis of a Diarylheptanoid, Rhoiptelol B
Authors: Reddy Chada Raji , Rao Nagavaram Narsimha , Srikanth Boinapally
Published: November 2009

A stereoselective total synthesis of rhoiptelol B has been accomplished for the first time. The four asymmetric centers were efficiently generated through Keck allylation, Jacobson epoxidation Aldol reaction and reductive etherification as the key steps.
Prometrine–Humic Acids Interactions Studied at a Water/1,2‐Dichloroethane Interface
Authors: Riva Julieta Soledad , Juarez Ana Valeria , Yudi Lidia Mabel
Published: November 2009

The interaction of the herbicide prometrine (PROM) with humic acids (HA) in water was analyzed at a pH range between 2.00 to 10.00. For this purpose the transfer current of protons facilitated by PROM across a water/1,2‐dichloroethane interface was employed to quantify PROM concentration in absence or in presence of HA. When humic acids were added in increasing amounts to the solution containing PROM, a gradual decrease in current values was observed, evidencing the retention of PROM by HA. This effect was more important at high pH values. From the results it is concluded that the adsorption of PROM is dependent on the pH and HA concentration. At high pH values the herbicide is strongly retained by HA, revealing a strong interaction probably due to the possibility of PROM (neutral species) to access to hydrophobic regions of AH, where van der Waals interactions prevail. The amount of PROM bounded to HA was calculated by subtracting peak current values in presence and in absence of HA and the adsorption isotherm was plotted. The concave or S type curves obtained, indicative of a process with high resistance to adsorption at low concentrations, was fitted with Freundlich isotherm.
Comparison Between a Charge Transfer Process and an Electrocatalytic Process in Cyclic Voltammetry and Cyclic Voltcoulommetry. Application to the Oxidation of Ferrocyanide at a Ferrocene‐Monolayer Modified Gold Electrode
Authors: Soto C. M. , Molina A. , González J.
Published: November 2009

Ferrocyanide oxidation catalyzed by a ferrocene‐alkylthiolate monolayer at gold electrodes has been investigated by using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and cyclic voltcoulommetry (CVC). The voltammetric current‐potential curves obtained present a stationary sigmoidal feature which points out to a very high rate constant for the chemical step, whereas the charge‐potential curves do not reach an stationary behavior in any case. Simple expressions are presented for the characterization of the CV and CVC curves under Nernstian conditions for the charge transfer step. From these expressions, a value for the chemical rate constant 2.5×104 M−1 s−1 has been easily obtained from an anodic plateau of the CV curves or from the linear anodic region of the CVC curves.
Electochemiluminescence of CdTe/CdS Quantum Dots with Triproprylamine as Coreactant in Aqueous Solution at a Lower Potential and Its Application for Highly Sensitive and Selective Detection of Cu2+
Authors: Mei Yan‐Li , Wang Huai‐Sheng , Li Yan‐Fen , Pan Zhuang‐Ying , Jia Wen‐Li
Published: November 2009

Anodic electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA)‐ capped CdTe/CdS core‐shell quantum dots (QDs) with tripropylamine (TPrA) as the co‐reactant were studied in aqueous (Tris buffer) solution for the first time. The results suggest that the oxidation of TPrA at a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface participated in the ECL of QDs, and the onset potential and the intensity of ECL of CdTe/CdS QDs were affected seriously by TPrA, as the co‐reactant, in Tris buffer solution. The onset potential of ECL in this new system was about +0.5 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) and the ECL intensity greatly enhanced when TPrA was present. Various influencing factors, such as the electrolyte, pH, QDs concentration, potential range and scan rates on the ECL were studied. Based on the selective quenching by Cu2+ to the light emission from CdTe/CdS QDs/TPrA system, a highly sensitive and selective method for the determination of Cu2+ was developed. At the optimal conditions, the relative ECL intensity, I0/I, was proportional to the concentration of Cu2+ from 14 nM to 0.21 μM with the detection limit of 6.1 nM based on the signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3. The possible ECL mechanism of QDs and the quenching mechanism of ECL were proposed.
Panic disorder in older adults: evidence from the national epidemiologic survey on alcohol and related conditions
Authors: Chou Kee‐Lee
Published: November 2009

Objective

This study aims to investigate: (1) the association of panic disorder with childhood parental loss and recent stressful life events; (2) the co‐existence of panic disorder with major depressive disorder (MDD) as well as alcohol dependence; and (3) the impact of panic disorder on medical conditions, obesity, healthcare service utilization, and health‐related quality of life.

Methods

Data were drawn from The National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (2001–2002), which was a national representative survey of the non‐institutionalized US household population. We focused on 13 420 respondents who were aged 55 and above. Panic disorder was assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule—DSM‐IV version. Demographic characteristics, psychosocial risk factors, psychiatric disorders, health‐related quality of life, obesity, medical conditions, and healthcare service utilization were also measured.

Results

The current and lifetime prevalence rates of panic disorder were 1.17 and 3.72%, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that panic disorder was more common among lower income groups and those who had reported more recent stressful life events. In addition, MDD was significantly related to lifetime panic disorder. Panic disorder was also significantly related to a lower health‐related quality of life, two medical conditions, and the receipt of emergency room service.

Conclusion

The correlation between panic disorder and MDD raises further questions about the nature of panic disorder in the elderly. This study supports the notion that panic disorder has a strong impact on quality of life in old age. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.