bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROPERTIES OF a-C:H FILMS DEPOSITED IN CH4–H2 AND CH4–He DC PLASMA
Authors: AWANG ROZIDAWATI , RAHMAN SAADAH ABDUL
Published: June 2009

Hydrogenated amorphous carbon ( a - C : H ) films were deposited using direct-current plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (DC PECVD) process. The resulting film properties were studied with respect to the introduction of hydrogen ( H 2) and helium ( He ) in methane ( CH 4) plasma. The analysis techniques used to assess the film properties included optical transmission spectroscopy, Fourier transmission infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Hydrogen dilution has significant effect on the deposition rate and optical band gap (E g ) of the film but helium dilution produces insignificant effects on these parameters. However, the hydrogen content in the film decreases steeply to a saturation value with increase in helium dilution. Increase in dilution of CH 4 by both H and He gases result in decrease in PL efficiency.
BENDING STABILITY OF INNER AND OUTER TUBES OF DOUBLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBE
Authors: RANJBARTOREH ALI REZA , WANG GUOXIU
Published: June 2009

This paper considers the effects of bending moment on the structure of double-walled carbon nanotube (DWCNT). Two types of DWCNTs with almost the same aspect ratio (length/radius) are selected; also continuum modeling is utilized to study the bending stability of inner and outer tubes. As a result of the van der Waals interaction between adjacent tubes the critical bending moment of inner tube is higher than this moment of outer tube which is indicated from the obtained results of this research; thus, achieving higher reliability in nanostructures, the critical bending moment of outer tube should be taken into account.
CONJUGATED POLYMER-SENSITIZED SOLAR CELLS BASED ON ELECTROSPUN TiO2 NANOFIBER ELECTRODE
Authors: ZHANG WEI , ZHU RUI , LIU XI-ZHE , LIU BIN , RAMAKRISHNA SEERAM
Published: June 2009

When conjugated polymer is used as dye sensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC), the device performance is usually limited by the poor penetration of conjugated polymer into the network formed by TiO 2 nanoparticles. In this regard, we develop a novel photoanode composed of electrospun TiO 2 nanofibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals the uniformity of the calcined TiO 2 nanofibers. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicates that the calcined TiO 2 nanofibers are polycrystalline and composed of pure anatase phase TiO 2 grains. To demonstrate the application of the synthesized nanofibers in electronic devices, DSSCs are fabricated and investigated under illumination with AM 1.5 (100 mW cm-2) simulated sunlight. The initial results demonstrate the great potential of using conjugated polymer as the dye sensitizer for devices with TiO 2 nanofiber electrode.
QUANTIFICATION OF TRANSIENT ABSORPTION IN PHOTO-REACTIVE MONOLAYERS USING REFLECTOMETRY IN THE VICINITY OF BREWSTER ANGLE
Authors: GORELIK SERGEY , HOBLEY JONATHAN , LEAR MARTIN J. , SONG HONGYAN , YONG STANLEY YEW SIONG , CHENG JIANHUA
Published: June 2009

A method is presented that enables the determination of transient absorption in Langmuir films made from a monolayer of spiropyran on water. This is achievable even though the optical pathlength of such a monolayer is < 10-9 m. The approach is to monitor reflectivity changes close to the Brewster angle, where the background of reflected light is minimized. This is the key to the sensitivity of the method. Relatively speaking the small changes in reflectivity due to changes in both real and imaginary parts of the refractive index are easier to observe with the intrinsically low backgrounds at the Brewster angle. Notably using Fresnel equations we can show that the real and imaginary parts of the refractive index can be independently assessed for ultrathin films and monolayers using the approach presented.
FORMATION OF COLLOIDAL GOLD NANOPARTICLES BY USING FEMTOSECOND LASER ABLATION
Authors: SOBHAN M. A. , AMS M. , WITHFORD M. J. , GOLDYS E. M.
Published: June 2009

Colloidal gold nanoparticles were produced by irradiating a gold disc with a femtosecond laser beam in pure deionized water. Variation of laser fluence between 38 and 330 J/cm2 was used to control the nanoparticle size distribution. The nanoparticles produced were spherically shaped with average diameter between 9 and 10 nm. The effect of ablation time on the nanoparticle production efficiency and size distribution was also studied.
SYNTHESIS OF CARBON NANOSHEETS AND CARBON NANOPARTICLES BY RF-PLASMA ENHANCED CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
Authors: RAO B. PURNA CHANDRA , THIRUVADIGAL D. JOHN , RAMASWAMY SHIVARAMAN , GOPALAKRISHNAN C.
Published: June 2009

In this study, thin sheets like carbon nanostructures and carbon nanoparticles have been effectively synthesized with CH 4 and Ar as precursors at low temperature (< 400°C) by inductively coupled radio frequency plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition on silicon and glass substrates. The surface morphology and chemical composition were studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. AFM studies show that the nanoparticles roughly about 70 to 80 nm in diameter surrounded by nanosheets. Nanosheets are about 100 nm in thickness, which attain approximately 1.75 μm lengths. EDS results revealed that the atomic percentage of carbon in the particle like structure is more than that in the nanosheet like structures.
CORRELATION BETWEEN SIMULATION AND EXPERIMENT USING UV CURABLE GAP FILL MATERIALS FOR GLOBAL PLANARIZATION
Authors: TAKEI SATOSHI , YOON SANGWOONG , OHASHI TOMOYA , HORIGUCHI YUSUKE , NAKAJIMA YASUYUKI , LIN MICHAEL W. , WILLSON C. GRANT
Published: June 2009

This study focuses on the correlation between simulation and experiment using UV curable gap fill materials for global planarization in advanced lithographic and nanoimprinting techniques. A novel gap fill material has been optimized and developed for global planarization properties. Gap fill materials planarize irregular substrates such as patterned steps, vias, and trenches to increase depth of focus and patterning resolution. After planarizing the substrate surface, the gap fill materials provide dry etching selectivity to the under-layer to avoid damaging the dielectric materials. In the characterization of UV curable gap fill materials, two key factors were identified. The factors were the specific dependence of planarization on the spin speed and film thickness. By optimizing these factors, an appreciable reduction in via topography was realized. An array of 1.1 μm deep, 300 nm diameter holes was planarized to 10 nm thickness bias with a 380 nm thick planarizing film. In addition of global planarization, a final design consideration was to reduce the amount of outgassing during the process. UV curable gap fill material was optimized for sublimate reduction resulting in a defect-free coating. The sublimate produced from the developed gap fill material during baking was significantly decreased when compared with that produced from a thermal curable material. And, the third evaluation of UV curable gap fill materials was reported, to avoid resist poisoning issues in an advanced via-first dual damascene process. The resist poisoning properties in UV curable gap fill material were observed better performance than that of thermal curable material. The resulting UV curable gap fill materials based on this study will be extremely useful for lithographic and nanoimprinting techniques.
ELECTRO-OXIDATION OF ETHANOL ON NANOCRYSTALLINE Pd/C CATALYST PROMOTED WITH OXIDE IN ALKALINE MEDIA
Authors: LU J. L. , XU CHANGWEI , JIANG SAN PING
Published: June 2009

Nanocrystalline Pd electrocatalyst promoted with transition metal oxide ( Co 3 O 4, NiO , and CoNiO x) is successfully synthesized on high surface carbon support by using intermittent microwave heating (IMH) method. The physical properties of the catalysts are characterized by XRD, TEM, and EDX. The results show that there is no significant microstructure change between Pd and Pd -oxide electrocatalysts and the particle sizes are in the range 5.8–3.9 nm. The linear sweep voltammogram and chronoamperometry results for the electro-oxidation of ethanol show that Pd -oxide/ C electrocatalysts exhibit much better electrochemical activity and stability as compared with pure Pd / C electrocatalyst. The results show that Pd – CoNiO x/ C exhibits the best stability and highest electro-oxidation activity, indicating the promising potential as an alternative electrocatalysts for the direct ethanol fuel cells.
A COARSE-GRAINED MODEL OF MONOOLEIN: COMPARISON WITH THE ATOMISTIC MODEL
Authors: KIM J. H. , CHOI S. H. , JUNG D. H. , CHO C. S. , CHOI Y. J.
Published: June 2009

Monoolein (2,3-dihydroxypropyl (Z)-octadec-9-enoate) is one of the monoacylglycerol and has been studied for various applications in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry. Those applications make use of the phase behavior of monoolein. In order to understand the lipid bilayer phase of monoolein in mesoscale, a coarse-grained model has been built and tested in this work. The monoolein molecule was represented by two hydrophilic heads and six hydrophobic tails. The three water molecules were also represented as one bead. For comparison, the atomistic model has also been used for molecular dynamics simulation on the lipid bilayer phase in isothermal-isobaric (NPT) ensemble. The interaction and bond bending potential parameters for dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) were obtained with molecular dynamics simulations on lipid bilayer in water. And we also obtained the interaction parameters of the coarse-grained model, which agree well with the atomistic model. We compared the simulated phases using the coarse-grained model with using the atomistic model. With these parameters, we successfully reproduced the lamella phase of monoolein in DPD simulations.
An XML-based framework for bidirectional transformation in model-driven architecture (MDA)
Authors: Bhatti Shahid Nazir , Malik Asif Muhammad
Published: June 2009

A model transformation in Model-Driven Architecture is the generation of a target model from a source model, which is normally based on different processes. These processes are described by a transformation definition, consisting of a number of transformation rules, and executed with the help of a transformational tool.

In Model-Driven Architecture approach, bidirectionality is one of the most desirable features of the transformational process. Here bi-directionality means that a transformation can be applied from source to target as well as back from target to source model.

Different technologies are available which provide bidirectionality between platform specific models to Code Generation but hardly any tool is providing bidirectionality between platform independent models to platform specific models. Here we proposed an XML-Based Bidirectional Transformation Model (as a framework) for Model-Driven Architecture that provides bidirectionality between platform independent model and platform specific model.
Deducing the complexity to quality of a system using UML
Authors: Bhatti Shahid Nazir
Published: June 2009

The aspects of quality are that it is unquantifiable trait- it can be discussed, felt and judged, but can not be weighted or measured. To validate software systems early in the development lifecycle is becoming crucial. Early validation of functional requirements is supported by well known approaches, while the validation of non-functional requirements, such as complexity or reliability, is not. Early assessment of non-functional requirements can be facilitated by automated transformation of software models into (mathematical) notations suitable for validation. These types of validation approaches are usually as -transparent to the developers as possible. The widely acceptance of quality services will only be accepted by users if their quality is of the most acceptable level. UML is rapidly becoming a standard (both in development and in research environments) for software development. The work here in this paper is extension of Quality with UML (QWUML, IDIMT-2004, and SEN-2005), quality of the system measurements with modelling (UML). This paper discusses some important issues regarding system design modelling in association with quality, complexity, and design aspects using UML heuristics.
Integrating
EduLearn
learning content management system (LCMS) with cooperating learning object repositories (LORs) in a peer to peer (P2P) architectural framework
Authors: Prakash Lakshmi Sunil , Saini Dinesh Kumar , Kutti N. S.
Published: June 2009

An attempt is made to integrate the
EduLearn
Learning Content Management System
(LCMS) components
with comparable
Learning Objects Repository (LORs)
, specified in Peer to Peer (P2P) architecture to provide a better framework for sharing Learning Objects.

Learning Content Designers need to be able to access a suitable learning object. For this the Learning Object needs to reside in an LOR which has the capacity to cater quickly to the needs of the Learning Content Designer.

Reuse of a Learning Object is possible only if it is available easily and it is designed in a standard format. Such a reusable learning object (RLO) has the ability of being reused in different learning contexts and for various objectives.

We have proposed a new framework for more efficient e-learning environment by using P2P architecture and Semantic Overlay Network. This will help in efficient management of LCMS components and improve the performance of LCMS through the RLO.

Our framework authenticates Learning Object Repositories and provides a better load balance for the framework using P2P technology.
SystemJ compilation using the tandem virtual machine approach
Authors: Malik Avinash , Salcic Zoran , Roop Partha S.
Published: June 2009

SystemJ is a language based on the Globally Asynchronous Locally Synchronous (GALS) paradigm. A SystemJ program is a collection of GALS nodes, also called clock domains, and each clock domain is a synchronous program that extends the Java language. Initial compilation of SystemJ has been to standard Java executing on a Java Virtual Machine (JVM), which is both inefficient and bulky for small embedded systems. This article proposes a new approach for compiling and executing SystemJ using a new type of virtual machine, called a Tandem Virtual Machine (TVM). The TVM approach provides an efficient implementation of SystemJ on both standard processors and resource-constrained embedded processors. The new approach is based on separating the control-driven and data-driven operations for execution on two virtual machines. While the JVM executes the data-driven operations, a Control Virtual Machine (CVM) is introduced to execute the control-driven parts of a SystemJ program. The TVM approach is capable of handling all data-driven and control-driven operations required by the GALS model. The benchmark results show that the TVM has code size improvements of over 60% on average and also a substantial improvement in execution speed over standard Java-based compilation.
Lightweight monadic regions
Authors: Kiselyov Oleg , Shan Chung-chieh
Published: June 2009

We present Haskell libraries that statically ensure the safe use of resources such as file handles. We statically prevent accessing an already closed handle or forgetting to close it. The libraries can be trivially extended to other resources such as database connections and graphic contexts.

Because file handles and similar resources are scarce, we want to not just assure their safe use but further deallocate them soon after they are no longer needed. Relying on Fluet and Morrisett's [4] calculus of nested regions, we contribute a novel, improved, and extended implementation of the calculus in Haskell, with file handles as resources.

Our library supports region polymorphism and implicit region subtyping, along with higher-order functions, mutable state, recursion, and run-time exceptions. A program may allocate arbitrarily many resources and dispose of them in any order, not necessarily LIFO. Region annotations are part of an expression's inferred type.

Our new Haskell encoding of monadic regions as monad transformers needs no witness terms. It assures timely deallocation even when resources have markedly different lifetimes and the identity of the longest-living resource is determined only dynamically.

For contrast, we also implement a Haskell library for manual resource management, where deallocation is explicit and safety is assured by a form of linear types. We implement the linear typing in Haskell with the help of phantom types and a parameterized monad to statically track the type-state of resources.
Haskell, do you read me?
Authors: Viera Marcos , Swierstra S. Doaitse , Lempsink Eelco
Published: June 2009

The Haskell definition and implementation of read is far from perfect. In the first place read is not able to handle the associativities defined for infix operators. Furthermore, it puts constraints on the way show is defined, and especially forces it to generate far more parentheses than expected. Lastly, it may give rise to exponential parsing times. All this is due to the compositionality requirement for read functions, which imposes a top-down parsing strategy.

We propose a different approach, based on typed abstract syntax, in which grammars describing the data types are composed dynamically. Using the transformation libraries described in a companion paper these syntax descriptions are combined and transformed into parsers at runtime, from which the required read function are constructed. In this way we obtain linear parsing times, achieve consistency with the defined associativities, and may use a version of show which generates far fewer parentheses, thus improving readability of printed values.

The described transformation algorithms can be incorporated in a Haskell compiler, thus moving most of the work involved to compile time.
Haskell
Authors: Coutts Duncan , Potoczny-Jones Isaac , Stewart Don
Published: June 2009

The quality of a programming language itself is only one component in the ability of application writers to get the job done. Programming languages can succeed or fail based on the breadth and quality of their library collection. Over the last few years, the Haskell community has risen to the task of building the library infrastructure necessary for Haskell to succeed as a programming language suitable for writing real-world applications.

This on-going work, the Cabal and Hackage effort, is built on the open source model of distributed development, and have resulted in a flowering of development in the language with more code produced and reused now than at any point in the community's history. It is easier to obtain and use Haskell code, in a wider range of environments, than ever before.

This demonstration describes the infrastructure and process of Haskell development inside the Cabal/Hackage framework, including the build system, library dependency resolution, centralised publication, documentation and distribution, and how the code escapes outward into the wider software community.

We survey the benefits and trade-offs in a distributed, collaborative development ecosystem and look at a proposed Haskell Platform that envisages a complete Haskell development environment, batteries included.
The Biochemistry of Disease: Desperately Seeking Syzygy
Authors: Kozarich John W.
Published: June 2009

The elucidation of the precise molecular structure and dynamics of biological processes is the great work of biochemistry. From this, insights into the changes leading to process dysfunction or disease are derived, as well as the possible approaches to restore healthy function. Translating this information into effective and safe treatments for disease requires a coordinated interdisciplinary effort, a fusion of creativity and practicality, and a healthy dose of luck. Using several reviews in this volume as springboards, I discuss the broader issues of drug development, highlighting some recent successes and future directions. Such occurrences inspire awe but remain too rare for comfort.
Effects of Corticosteroids on Osteopontin Expression in a Murine Model of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Kurokawa Masatsugu , Konno Satoshi , Matsukura Satoshi , Kawaguchi Mio , Ieki Koushi , Suzuki Shintarou , Odaka Miho , Watanabe Shin , Homma Tetsuya , Sato Masayuki , Takeuchi Hiroko , Hirose Takashi , Huang Shau-Ku , Adachi Mitsuru
Published: June 2009

Background: Osteopontin (OPN) contributes to the development of T helper 1 (Th1)-mediated immunity and Th1-associated diseases. However, the role of OPN in bronchial asthma is unclear. Corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation, as reflected by the low eosinophil and T-cell counts, and the low level of cytokine expression. We investigated OPN production and the inhibitory effects of corticosteroids on OPN production in a murine model of allergic asthma. Methods: BALB/c mice were sensitized by intraperitoneal injections of ovalbumin (OVA) with alum. Some mice received daily injections of dexamethasone (DEX) or phosphate-buffered saline for 1 week. All OVA-challenged mice were exposed to aerosolized 1% OVA for 30 min an hour after these injections. After the OVA challenge, the mice were killed, and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and lung tissue were examined. Results: The levels of OPN protein in BAL fluid and OPN mRNA in lung tissue increased after OVA challenge. Most OPN-expressing cells were CD11c+ cells and some were T cells. DEX decreased the levels of OPN protein in the BAL fluid, and those of OPN mRNA and OPN protein in lung tissue. Conclusions: OPN may play an important role in allergic bronchial asthma. Corticosteroids inhibit OPN production in mice with allergic asthma. The beneficial effect of corticosteroids in bronchial asthma is partly due to their inhibitory effects on OPN production.
Eosinophil Superoxide Anion Generation Induced by Adhesion Molecules and Leukotriene D4
Authors: Mori Mariko , Takaku Yotaro , Kobayashi Takehito , Hagiwara Koichi , Kanazawa Minoru , Nagata Makoto
Published: June 2009

Rationale: Eosinophils preferentially accumulate at sites of inflammation in the asthmatic airway. Participation of circulating eosinophils in the airway inflammation in asthma involves their interaction with adhesion molecules expressed on the endothelial cell surface and exposure to inflammatory mediators, such as cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs). Objective: To investigate whether interaction of eosinophils with adhesion molecules modifies the functions of these cells induced by cysLTs. Methods: Eosinophils were isolated from the blood of healthy donors, incubated in the EIA plates coated with adhesion proteins, and then exposed to LTD4. The generation of superoxide anion (O2–), adhesion to the plates, and release of eosinophil-derived neutrotoxin (EDN) were evaluated. Results: Neither VCAM-1 nor LTD4 (100 nM) independently induced eosinophil O2– generation, however, combined exposure to the two molecules synergistically induced eosinophil O2– generation. ICAM-1 by itself induced eosinophil O2– generation, which was enhanced by LTD4. On the contrary, P-selectin did not induce O2– generation, either in the presence or absence of LTD4. LTD4 significantly enhanced eosinophil adhesion to rh-VCAM-1 and rh-ICAM-1, but not to rh-P-selectin. Finally, we observed that combined exposure of eosinophils to LTD4 and VCAM-1 induced the release of EDN. Conclusion: Combined exposure to VCAM-1 or ICAM-1 and cysLT effectively induces the effector functions of eosinophils. Eosinophil adhesion to and migration across endothelial cells via these specific adhesion proteins and subsequent exposure to cysLTs may be mechanisms underlying activation of the effector functions of eosinophils in the asthmatic airway.
Cytokine Production Profile of CD4+ T Cells from Patients with Active Churg-Strauss Syndrome Tends Toward Th17
Authors: Saito Hiroshi , Tsurikisawa Naomi , Tsuburai Takahiro , Oshikata Chiyako , Akiyama Kazuo
Published: June 2009

Background: Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) is a rare systemic necrotizing vasculitis that develops in some asthma patients. What types of asthma make patients prone to develop this condition remains unknown. We found that inhibition of regulatory T cells (Treg) differentiation, especially by Tr1 cells, due to a decreased ability of responder T cells to generate IL-2, is associated with the onset and pathogenesis of CSS. In contrast, recent evidence suggests that IL-17-producing Th17 cells play a crucial role in autoimmune inflammation. However, few studies have addressed the role of Th17 in the pathogenesis of CSS. Methods: Mononuclear leukocytes were obtained from healthy subjects, patients with bronchial asthma (BA), asthma-accompanying chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (BA+CEP) and CSS. The cells were stimulated for 4–5 h with PMA and ionomycin in the presence of brefeldin A to generate and accumulate cytokines. Intracellular cytokines were detected after fixation and permeabilization of these cells. Tr1 cells were evaluated as CD4+CD25+ T cells dominantly producing IL-10 and TGF-β, nTreg as CD4+CD25+ T cells expressing Foxp3, a master transcriptional factor, and Th17 were also evaluated as CD4+ T cells mainly producing IL-17. Patients with CSS were classified into an active group and an inactive group in accordance with the disease state after treatment. Results: The frequency of Th17 in peripheral blood was significantly higher in active CSS patients than in healthy subjects, BA, BA+CEP, and inactive CSS patients. In contrast, the Tr1 cell detection frequency was remarkably decreased in active CSS in comparison with BA, BA+CEP, and inactive CSS patients. Also, there was a significant relation between the condition of a given CSS patient and the detection frequencies of both CD4+ helper T cells when CSS cases were divided into inactive and active stages. The Th17 detection frequency was increased in the active stage of CSS, while the Tr1 frequency decreased sharply but then reversed in the inactive stage of CSS. Conclusion: Active CSS patients have elevated intracellular IL-17 and decreased IL-10 levels, which correlate with measures of disease activity, suggesting that Th17 and Tr1 may play important roles in the pathogenesis of CSS.
Hackethal Bundle Nailing with Intramedullary Elastic Nails in the Treatment of Two- and Three-Part Fractures of the Proximal Humerus: Initial Experience at Al Razi Hospital, Kuwait
Authors: Pospula Wieslaw , Abu Noor Tarek
Published: June 2009

Objective: To present the clinical and radiological results of a minimally invasive technique, the fixation of two- and three-part fractures of the proximal humerus according to the Neer Classification System, using the intramedullary bundle-wiring Hackethal technique. Subjects and Methods: The operations were performed with the Hackethal technique (use of elastic titanium nails, Synthes) on 17 patients (8 males and 9 females) with two- and three-part fractures of the proximal humerus. In cases of two-part fracture only, intramedullary titanium nails were used while for three-part fractures, percutaneous cannulated screws were used to fix the greater tuberosity, followed by intramedullary insertion of titanium elastic nails. The clinical results were assessed using the Constant score and radiological assessment including the union and alignment of the proximal humerus. Preoperative and postoperative CT scans were performed along with 3D reconstruction in all cases for diagnostic and prognostic significance. Results: All fractures united in an average period of 12 weeks (range 10–17 weeks). In all patients, a good to excellent range of motion of the shoulder, and good to excellent muscular power and alignment were noted. The Constant score amounted to 81 points (range 64–98 points). There was no secondary loss of fixation and migration of implants. Conclusion: In cases of two-part fracture of the proximal humerus, the minimally invasive Hackethal technique alone and in cases of three-part fracture, the same technique with percutaneous cannulated screws provided excellent clinical and radiological results with a minimal risk of complication. It is an important alternative to open reduction and internal fixation of these difficult fractures.
Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units: A 5-Year Experience
Authors: Tang Lan Fang , Chen Zhi Min
Published: June 2009

Objectives: To determine the value and safety of fiberoptic bronchoscopy in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICUs, PICUs). Subject and Methods: A total of 53 fiberoptic bronchoscopy procedures on 47 patients were reviewed. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed in 23 patients. Results: The primary diseases were pneumonia (n = 16), foreign body aspiration (n = 14), congenital airway abnormality (n = 12), trauma and/or following operations (n = 4) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (n = 1). The major bronchoscopic findings included inflammation in 26 patients, foreign body in 14, congenital airway abnormality in 12 and blood clotting in 3. Microbiology on BAL fluid was positive in 19 of 23 patients. In 23 patients with atelectasis, full and partial re-expansion was obtained in 14 and 6 patients, respectively, at 24 h after the procedures. The clinical features of 9 patients with sputum retention or blood clotting improved significantly after BAL. Positive or negative microbiologic BAL fluid results changed treatment in 11 patients, leading to marked clinical improvement in 9 patients. Moreover, 13 patients were extubated within 24 h of bronchoscopy. Conclusion: These data show that fiberoptic bronchoscopy is safe and effective in the diagnosis and therapy of pulmonary disorders in NICUs and PICUs.
Brucellosis Triggering Hemolytic Anemia in Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Pamuk Gulsum Emel , Dogan Celik Aygul , Uyanık Mehmet Sevki
Published: June 2009

Objectives: To present a case of acute brucellosis triggering acute hemolytic anemia in a subject with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 17-year-old male patient presented with fever, malaise and jaundice. His blood and bone marrow cultures yielded Brucella species. In addition, he was found to have acute hemolytic anemia due to previously undiagnosed G6PD deficiency. He was started on folic acid supplementation and given a combination of doxycycline and rifampicin for 6 weeks. His response to antibiotic therapy was optimal; the hemolytic anemia resolved. There were no further episodes of hemolysis. Conclusion: This case showed that the differential diagnosis of acute hemolytic anemia in subjects with G6PD deficiency should include brucellosis, especially in regions where the infection is endemic.
Habitat-Related Divergence among Tailfan Sensory Systems in Reptantian Decapod Crustaceans
Authors: Bock Natika L. , Paul Dorothy H.
Published: June 2009

Squat lobsters (Galatheidae) and mole sand crabs (Hippidae) differ in posture and locomotion from each other and from crayfish, their surrogate ancestor for neurobehavioral features. Galatheids resemble crayfish more closely in general behavior and niche, but are intermediate between crayfish and hippids with respect to morphology and neuromusculature. The tailfan is inverted under the abdomen in both, due to the flexed abdominal posture, but its morphology has diverged considerably. Nothing is known about adaptations of the tailfan exteroceptors to the new sensory world of either group. We used SEM, vital staining, and extracellular electrophysiological techniques to survey the sensory structures on the telsons of the galatheid Munida quadrispina and the hippid Emerita analoga for comparison with published data on the homologous mechanosensory system in crayfish. Both telsons bear plumose, peg, and non-annulate (natatory or guard) setae. In addition, M. quadrispina has singly-innervated smooth setae and E. analoga a previously undescribed type of small seta the outer face of which is covered by transversely-oriented, thin setules that are much broader than they are long and angled outward toward the seta’s distal end, overlapping loosely. The ‘stack-of-scales’ appearance of its distal portion viewed from the side engendered the name: scaly seta. Some shared features with other small setae that are chemo- and mechanoreceptive suggest scaly setae might be bimodal sensilla. The telson of M. quadrispina is very flexible. Plumose setae on its dorsal surface are arranged into hemi-circlets and most, if not all, appear not to be innervated. They may contribute to adjacent smooth setae’s mechanosensitivity via mechanical coupling through adjacent cuticle, as occurs between feathered and smooth setae on crayfish antennae. Sensory nerve recordings show many afferents to have low thresholds to mechanical disturbance, suggesting they are hydrodynamic receptors. The telson of E. analoga is rigid, and all dorsal setae are relegated to the margins. Patches of scaly setae on the anterior lateral dorsal telson are strategically located to sense the substrate when the crabs are in sand. Scaly and peg setae are arrayed along shallow grooves, one along each side, that are flanked laterally by a fringe of plumose and pappose setae. Substantial deflection from resting position of the latter was required to reliably elicit afferent activity, suggesting most function as touch receptors. The different, non-random distributions of tailfan setae match these animals’ divergent sensory worlds and might have engendered species-specific alterations in their central sensory systems.
C-Reactive Protein Gene C1444T Polymorphism and Risk of Recurrent Ischemic Events in Patients with Symptomatic Intracranial Atherostenoses
Authors: Arenillas Juan F. , Massot Andreu , Alvarez-Sabín Jose , Fernandez-Cadenas Israel , del Rio-Espinola Albert , Chacon Pilar , Quintana Manuel , Molina Carlos A. , Rovira Alex , Montaner Joan
Published: June 2009

Background: High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) are associated with an increased risk of further ischemic events in patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD). It remains unknown to which extent this increased risk might be genetically predetermined. We aimed to investigate the relationship between a common genetic polymorphism of the CRP gene and the risk of recurrent ischemic events in symptomatic ICAD patients. Methods: We studied 75 consecutive patients with a first-ever cerebral ischemic event attributable to symptomatic ICAD. Blood samples were drawn 3 months after the qualifying event. Genomic DNA was isolated and the C1444T single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the CRP gene was determined. The blood concentration of CRP was also measured. Patients underwent long-term clinical follow-up to detect the occurrence of further major ischemic events. Results: During a median follow-up time of 23 months, 18 patients (24%) suffered a major ischemic event (10 ischemic strokes, 3 transient ischemic attacks and 5 myocardial infarctions). Raised CRP levels at baseline (p = 0.02) and the presence of the T allele within the CRP C1444T SNP were associated with a higher risk of recurrent ischemic events (p = 0.02). Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, vascular risk factors and CRP level identified that the presence of the T allele in the studied polymorphism predicted the occurrence of further ischemic events (hazard ratio 3.6, 95% confidence interval 1.2–11.1; p = 0.025). Conclusions: The presence of the T allele within the CRP gene C1444T polymorphism may be associated with a higher risk of further ischemic events in symptomatic ICAD patients.
Fatal Yersinia enterocolitica Septicemia after Transfusion of Red Cells – Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Neumeister B. , Koerner K. , Schwalbe B. , Kubanek B.
Published: June 2009

Whereas up to 10% (median: 0.046-0.1%) of platelet concentrates are regarded to be bacterially contaminated, approximately only one out of 9 million transfused red blood cell (RBC) units bears the chance of death from sepsis due to contamination with psychrophilic bacteria, mainly Yersiniα enterocoliticα. We report the clinical course and the bacteriological examination of unavoidable fatal septic shock resulting from transfusion of a RBC unit contaminated with Y. enterocoliticα in a 47-year-old man who underwent cystectomy due to bladder cancer. The case is discussed in the light of different recommended measures during collecting and processing of blood donations that could be suitable to prevent bacterial contamination.
Ein Test zur Aufdeckung einer Acetylsalicylsäure-induzierten Thrombozytenfunktionsstörung bei Thrombozytenspendern
Authors: Matic G.B. , Beck K.H. , Niese A. , Beeser H.
Published: June 2009

Ziel: Ein einfacher und kostengünstiger Thrombozyten-Funktionstest zur Erfassung von Acetylsalicylsäure(ASS)-Einnahme wird vorgestellt und hinsichtlich seiner Eignung für Reihenuntersuchungen am Spenderkollektiv des Blutspendedienstes geprüft. Design: Prospektive Untersuchung. Rahmen: Blutspendedienst des Instituts für Transfusionsmedizin einer Universitätsklinik. Teilnehmer: 5 Freiwillige, 112 Thrombozyta-pherese-Spender und 90 Vollblutspender. Interventionen: Freiwillige wurden nach der Einnahme von 500 mg ASS an fünf konsekutiven Tagen getestet. Alle Thrombozytenspender verneinten die Einnahme von ASS vor der Spende und wurden getestet. Vollblutspender wurden getestet, um die Verbreitung der ASS-Einnahme bei Vollblutspendern zu erfassen. Ergebnisse: Die ASS-Einnahme konnte für mindestens 2 Tage (2-5) nach der Einnahme von 500 mg ASS nachgewiesen werden. 4 von 112 (3,6%) Thrombozytapherese-Spendern waren Test-positiv. 3 der 4 Test-positiven Thrombozytapherese-Spender konnten sich nach der Konfrontation mit dem Testergebnis an eine ASS-Einnahme erinnern. 8 von 90 (8,9%) Vollblutspendern waren Test-positiv. Schluβfolgerung: Ein Screening von Thrombozytapherese-Spendern auf ASS-induzierte Thrombozyten-Funktionsstörung kann wegen der verbreiteten Selbstmedikation sinnvoll sein und mit dem vorgestellten Test durchgeführt werden. Wir empfehlen, probatorisch das eigene Spenderkollektiv zu testen, um die Häufigkeit von ASS-Einnahmen zu erfassen. Bei hoher Prävalenz kann ein Routine-Screening eingeführt werden. Durch Testungen konnte auch die Spendermoral gehoben werden.
CD34-Negative Hematopoietic Stem Cells Isolated from Human Peripheral Blood Cells as Ultimate Precursors of Hematopoietic Progenitors
Authors: Huss R. , Günther W. , Schumm M. , Ottinger H. , Grosse-Wilde H. , Kolb H.J.
Published: June 2009

Background: The earliest hematopoietic stem cell is still not yet identified. From experiments in dogs there is evidence that the earliest hematopoietic stem cell is a CD 34– fibroblast-like cell which can be isolated from bone marrow stromal cultures. In this set of experiments we wanted to identify such an early CD34– fibroblast4ike cell population from human peripheral blood. Material and Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNC) were isolated from healthy volunteer donors and incubated with interleukin-6(IL-6)-containing medium in tissue culture flasks. After establishing an almost confluent adherent layer of fibroblast4ike cells which attach to the plastic surface, the cells were stimulated with various growth factors. The emerging nonadherent cells as well as the adherent cells were applied to a colony-forming unit (CFU) assay in semisolid agar and to long-term culture-initiating cell (LTC-IC) assay. Results: CD34– adherently growing cells could be isolated from human peripheral blood by IL-6-mediated plastic adherence. These cells grow as fibroblast-like cells in culture and differentiation can be induced by stem cell factor (SCF), while IL-6 induces proliferation of these cells. While differentiating, CD34– fibroblast-like cells lose the ability to grow adherently and start to express CD34 and eventually HLA-DR. The differentiating CD34+ cells are also capable of producing CFU and LTC-IC. Conclusion: This set of experiments provides evidence that the earliest identifiable hematopoietic stem cell is a CD34– adherently growing fibroblast-like cell which is part of the marrow microenvironment in vivo and can differentiate into hematopoietic progenitors upon appropriate growth factor signaling. This kind of early stem cell can also be isolated from PBMNC.
The Storage Lesion of Single Donor Platelets: Insights from Flow Cytometric Analysis and Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Gutensohn K. , Schaefer P. , Krueger W. , Löliger C.C. , Asmussen C. , Geidel K. , Kuehnl P.
Published: June 2009

Background: During storage, platelets undergo morphological and immunological alterations. This study was performed to investigate the influence of storage on platelet antigens by flow cytometry and on morphology by electron microscopy. Materials and Methods: Platelet concentrates (n = 24) were prepared by continuous-flow centrifugation plateletpheresis. Afterwards, they were stored in polyvinylchloride (PVC) containers for 7 days. Aliquots were taken daily to examine platelet glycoproteins CD41a, CD42b, CD62p, and CD63 by flow cytometry. Every second day, aliquots were drawn for electron microscopic analyses. Results: During storage, the expression of CD62p (P-selectin) and CD63 (gp53) progressively increased. Mean channel fluorescence intensity (MCFI) for CD62p increased from day 1 to day 7 from 21.3 to 43.4 (p < 0.05), MCFI of CD63 from 19.5 to 29.5 MCFI (p < 0.05). MCFI of CD41a decreased from 1,165.2 to 1,119.0 and subsequently returned to baseline levels (p < 0.05). MCFI of CD42b continuously decreased from 301.6 to 279.7 from day 0 to 7 (p < 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed progressive platelet activation and destruction. Over the storage period external and internal reorganization became clearly apparent. Conclusion: During storage of platelet concentrates, antigens and morphology of platelets are altered. Flow cytometry and TEM provide insights into the storage lesion and are suitable techniques for quality control of platelet concentrates and evaluation of biocompatibility. However, due to the more objective, faster and more sensitive analysis, only flow cytometry may also be suitable for routine applications in quality control.
Erythrozytensubstitution: Was ist bekannt über den kritischen Hämatokrit?
Authors: Spahn D.R. , Pasch T.
Published: June 2009

Der heutige Stand der Information läßt keine eindeutigen und allgemeingültigen Werte eines kritischen Hämatokriten (HK) angeben. Ansonsten gesunde Patienten, welche sich einer Operation unterziehen müssen, scheinen sehr tiefe HK-Werte gut zu tolerieren. Der kritische HK für Patienten jünger als 50 Jahre scheint unter 15% zu liegen, für Patienten alter als 50 Jahre könnte ein HK von ca. 15% dem kritischen Wert entsprechen. Bei Kindern und Jugendlichen scheint der kritische HK noch tiefer zu liegen, nämlich unterhalb von 12%. Auch Patienten mit koronarer Herzkrankheit tolerieren erniedrigte HK-Werte erstaunhch gut, der kritische Wert liegt sicher unterhalb von 30%. In der postoperativen Phase könnte der kritische HK für Patienten mit einer nicht chirurgisch sanierten koronaren Herzkrankheit bei ca. 28% liegen. Bei Vorliegen einer Stenose der A. carotis liegt der kritische HK unterhalb von 30%. Aus verschiedenen Tierexperimenten läßt sich ableiten, daß der kritische HK für die Splanchnikusorgane bei ungefähr 26-45% des normalen Ausgangshämatokriten liegen könnte. Spezifische Information dazu in bezug auf den Menschen gibt es zur Zeit allerdings noch nicht. Angaben zum kritischen HK sind eine Hilfe, den tatsächlichen kritischen HK bei einem bestimmten Patienten abzuschätzen; grundsätzlich ist der kritische HK aber bei jedem Patienten eine individuelle Größe.
mars and tousled-like kinase act in parallel to ensure chromosome fidelity in Drosophila
Authors: Li Hsing-Hsi , Chiang Chuen-Sheue , Huang Hsiao-Yu , Liaw Gwo-Jen
Published: June 2009

Background

High levels of Hepatoma Up-Regulated Protein (HURP) and Tousled-Like Kinase (TLK) transcripts are found in hepatocellular carcinoma. HURP overexpression induces anchorage-independent growth of 293-T cells and enhances a rough-eye phenotype resulting from tlk overexpression in Drosophila. In addition, both HURP and Mars, a Drosophila HURP sequence homologue, promote polymerization of mitotic spindles. Thus, the genetic interaction of mars with tlk might be required for accurate chromosome segregation.

Methods

To reveal whether chromosome fidelity was decreased, the frequency of gynandromorphy, an individual with both male and female characteristics, and of non-disjunction were measured in the progeny from parents with reduced mars and/or tlk activities and analyzed by Student's t-test. To show that the genetic interaction between mars and tlk is epistatic or parallel, a cytological analysis of embryos with either reduced or increased activities of mars and/or tlk was used to reveal defects in mitotic-spindle morphology and chromosome segregation.

Results

A significant but small fraction of the progeny from parents with reduced mars activity showed gynandromorphy and non-disjunction. Results of cytological analysis revealed that the decrease in chromosome fidelity was a result of delayed polymerization of the mitotic spindle, which led to asynchronous chromosome segregation in embryos that had reduced mars activity. By removing one copy of tousled-like kinase (tlk) from flies with reduced mars activity, chromosome fidelity was further reduced. This was indicated by an increased in the non-disjunction rate and more severe asynchrony. However, the morphology of the mitotic spindles in the embryos at metaphase where both gene activities were reduced was similar to that in mars embryos. Furthermore, tlk overexpression did not affect the morphology of the mitotic spindles and the cellular localization of Mars protein.

Conclusion

Chromosome fidelity in progeny from parents with reduced mars and/or tlk activity was impaired. The results from cytological studies revealed that mars and tlk function in parallel and that a balance between mars activity and tlk activity is required for cells to progress through mitosis correctly, thus ensuring chromosome fidelity.
Chromosome level assembly of the hybrid Trypanosoma cruzi genome
Authors: Weatherly D Brent , Boehlke Courtney , Tarleton Rick L
Published: June 2009

Background

In contrast to the essentially fully assembled genome sequences of the kinetoplastid pathogens Leishmania major and Trypanosoma brucei the assembly of the Trypanosoma cruzi genome has been hindered by its repetitive nature and the fact that the reference strain (CL Brener) is a hybrid of two distinct lineages. In this work, the majority of the contigs and scaffolds were assembled into pairs of homologous chromosomes based on predicted parental haplotype, inference from TriTryp synteny maps and the use of end sequences from T. cruzi BAC libraries.

Results

Ultimately, 41 pairs of chromosomes were assembled using this approach, a number in agreement with the predicted number of T. cruzi chromosomes based upon pulse field gel analysis, with over 90% (21133 of 23216) of the genes annotated in the genome represented. The approach was substantiated through the use of Southern blot analysis to confirm the mapping of BAC clones using as probes the genes they are predicted to contain, and each chromosome construction was visually validated to ensure sufficient evidence was present to support the organization. While many members of large gene families are incorporated into the chromosome assemblies, the majority of genes excluded from the chromosomes belong to gene families, as these genes are frequently impossible to accurately position.

Conclusion

Now assembled, these chromosomes bring T. cruzi to the same level of organization as its kinetoplastid relatives and have been used as the basis for the T. cruzi genome in TriTrypDB, a trypanosome database of EuPathDB. In addition, they will provide the foundation for analyses such as reverse genetics, where the location of genes and their alleles and/or paralogues is necessary and comparative genome hybridization analyses (CGH), where a chromosome-level view of the genome is ideal.