bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical modulation of cell energy by 2-deoxyglucose and malonate in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced carcinogenesis in rats
Authors: Moselhy Said S , Kumosani TA , Al-Malki AL , Naif Almalki A
Published: January 2013

The goal of this study was to explore the impact of 2-deoxglucose or malonate individually or in combination on the level of cell energy (adenosine-5′-triphosphate) and oxidative stress in 7,12-dimethylbenz( a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary proliferation in rats. A total of 60 adult female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups (12 rats each): group I serves as the control group. Rats in groups (II–V) were administrated intragastrically a single dose of 50 mg/kg body weight (bw) of DMBA. A day after DMBA administration, rats in group III were injected intraperitoneally (ip) with 100 mg 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG)/kg bw daily. Rats in group IV were injected ip with 10 mg sodium malonate/kg bw daily. Rats in group V were injected ip with 100 mg 2-DG/kg bw and 10 mg sodium malonate/kg bw (treatment for 90 days). The results obtained showed that DMBA induced oxidative stress by decreasing the activities of glutathione reductase (GRase) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and elevating the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) in mammary tissues when compared with control. The combined treatment protected against the previous deleterious changes by a significant elevation in the activities of GRase and SOD, GPx and lowering the levels of MDA and NO more potentially when compared with individual treatment. Apoptosis, as indicated by a significant release of cytochrome c from mitochondria into the cytosol, observed in DMBA-injected rats was positively significantly correlated with the elevation of the level of NO. These data explained the possible additive effect of 2-DG and malonate by depleting the cell energy by their protective effects against the earlier stages of carcinogenesis.
An innovative shape equation to quantify the morphological characteristics of parasitized red blood cells by Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Karimi Alireza , Navidbakhsh Mahdi , Motevalli Haghi Afsaneh , Faghihi Shahab
Published: January 2013

The morphology of red blood cells is affected significantly during maturation of malaria parasites, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax. A novel shape equation is presented that defines shape of parasitized red blood cells by P. falciparum ( Pf-red blood cells) and P. vivax ( Pv-red blood cells) at four stages of infection. The Giemsa-stained thin blood films are prepared using blood samples collected from healthy donors, patients having P. falciparum and P. vivax malaria. The diameter and thickness of healthy red blood cells plus Pf-red blood cells and Pv-red blood cells at each stage of infection are measured from their optical images using Olysia and Scanning Probe Image Processor softwares, respectively. Using diameters and thicknesses of parasitized red blood cells, a shape equation is fitted and relative two-dimensional shapes are plotted using MATHEMATICA. The shape of Pf-red blood cell drastically changes at ring stage as its thickness increases by 82%, while Pv-red blood cell remains biconcave (30% increase in thickness). By trophozoite and subsequent schizont stage, the Pf-red blood cell entirely loses its biconcave shape and becomes near spherical (diameter and thickness of ~8 µm). The Pv-red blood cell remains biconcave throughout the parasite development even though its volume increases. These results could have practical use for faster diagnosis, prediction, and treatment of human malaria and sickle-cell diseases.
Sex Work and Its Associations With Alcohol and Methamphetamine Use Among Female Bar and Spa Workers in the Philippines
Authors: Urada Lianne A. , Strathdee Steffanie A. , Morisky Donald E. , Schilling Robert F. , Simbulan Nymia P. , Estacio Leonardo R. , Raj Anita
Published: January 2013

To assess the prevalence of sex work and its associations with substance use among female bar/spa workers in the Philippines (N = 498), workers from 54 bar or spa venues in Metro Manila (2009-2010) were surveyed on demographics, drug/alcohol use, abuse history, and sex work. Their median age was 23 years and 35% engaged in sex work. Sex work was independently associated with methamphetamine use (19% vs 4%; adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3-6.2), alcohol use with patrons (49% vs. 27%; AOR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.1-3.4), and alcohol intoxication during sex (50% vs. 24%; AOR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.2-3.5), but inversely associated with daily alcohol use (13% vs. 16%; AOR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.5). Additional significant covariates included sexual abuse history, younger age, and not having a higher education. Findings suggest that interventions with sex workers in bars and spas should focus on methamphetamine use, alcohol use contexts, and violence victimization, to better meet the needs of this population.
A Comparison of Support Needs Between Rural and Urban Family Caregivers Providing Palliative Care
Authors: Brazil Kevin , Kaasalainen Sharon , Williams Allison , Dumont Serge
Published: January 2013

The present study examined the support needs for urban and rural family caregivers of a palliative family member using a cross-sectional telephone survey in northeastern Ontario, Canada (n = 140; 70 urban, 70 rural). Support needs identified as most important by both the groups were informational. Rural caregivers reported greater unmet needs in tangible support ( P = .01). No differences were observed between the groups for emotional or informational support needs ( P = .25 and P = .35, respectively). Rural and urban caregivers perceived care for care recipients as accessible (mean accessibility score 1.9, standard deviation [SD] = 0.09 and 1.7, SD = 0.7, respectively, P = .20); the majority indicated that when needed, services were easily and quickly obtained. Although there are similarities in the formal care experiences, rural caregivers experience greater unmet needs in receiving support for instrumental activities.
‘This is your face on meth’: The punitive spectacle of ‘white trash’ in the rural war on drugs
Authors: Linnemann Travis , Wall Tyler
Published: January 2013

This article engages the dynamic role of the crime image and more specifically the mug shot, in a contemporary anti-methamphetamine media campaign known as ‘Faces of Meth’. Understood here as a pedagogical policing program, Faces of Meth attempts to deter methamphetamine use through graphic ‘before meth’ and ‘after meth’ images of the faces of white meth users. Our objective is not to evaluate the actual effectiveness of these fear appeals. Rather we discuss how the photographs are largely structured by and embedded within already existing cultural anxieties about the figure of ‘white trash’, reflecting both the dominance and precariousness of white social position.
De-converging the newsroom
Authors: Tameling Klaske , Broersma Marcel
Published: January 2013

This article introduces the concept of de-convergence to analyse recent changes in the newsroom at the Dutch newspaper de Volkskrant. While the concept of convergence or multimedia journalism has been introduced worldwide, de Volkskrant decided to separate their print and online newsroom. In this de-converged model the traditional print journalist has made a comeback, no longer charged with multimedia tasks. De Volkskrant initially anticipated the digital age by developing a cross-media strategy in which an integrated newsroom would serve multiple platforms. However, the lack of a solid business model and cultural resistance of reporters hindered these ambitions. By creating a new digital newsroom for all the web titles the chain owns, it is argued that convergence on a vertical level (within a brand) has given way to horizontal convergence (within the publishing house). The article analyses the factors which influenced decision-making and how these forms of (de)convergence affect journalism practice and the newspaper brand. Findings are based on an in-depth ethnographic study.
Medical undergraduates’ use of behaviour change talk: the example of facilitating weight management
Authors: Peters Sarah , Bird Louisa , Ashraf Hamaira , Ahmed Sehar , McNamee Philip , Ng Cassandra , Hart Jo
Published: January 2013

Background

Obesity, an increasing problem worldwide, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Management principally requires lifestyle (i.e. behavioural) changes. An evidence-base exists of behaviour change techniques for weight loss; however, in routine practice doctors are often unsure about effective treatments and commonly use theoretically-unfounded communication strategies (e.g. information-giving). It is not known if communication skills teaching during undergraduate training adequately prepares future doctors to engage in effective behaviour change talk with patients. The aim of the study was to examine which behaviour change techniques medical undergraduates use to facilitate lifestyle adjustments in obese patients.

Methods

Forty-eight medical trainees in their clinical years of a UK medical school conducted two simulated consultations each. Both consultations involved an obese patient scenario where weight loss was indicated. Use of simulated patients (SPs) ensured standardisation of key variables (e.g. barriers to behaviour change). Presentation of scenario order was counterbalanced. Following each consultation, students assessed the techniques they perceived themselves to have used. SPs rated the extent to which they intended to make behavioural changes and why. Anonymised transcripts of the audiotaped consultations were coded by independent assessors, blind to student and SP ratings, using a validated behaviour change taxonomy.

Results

Students reported using a wide range of evidence-based techniques. In contrast, codings of observed communication behaviours were limited. SPs behavioural intention varied and a range of helpful elements of student’s communication were revealed.

Conclusions

Current skills-based communication programmes do not adequately prepare future doctors for the growing task of facilitating weight management. Students are able to generalise some communication skills to these encounters, but are over confident and have limited ability to use evidence-based theoretically informed techniques. They recognise this as a learning need. Educators will need to tackle the challenges of integrating theoretically informed and evidence based behaviour change talk within medical training.
Induction without methanol: novel regulated promoters enable high-level expression in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Prielhofer Roland , Maurer Michael , Klein Joachim , Wenger Jana , Kiziak Christoph , Gasser Brigitte , Mattanovich Diethard
Published: January 2013

Background

Inducible high-level expression is favoured for recombinant protein production in Pichia pastoris. Therefore, novel regulated promoters are desired, ideally repressing heterologous gene expression during initial growth and enabling it in the production phase. In a typical large scale fed-batch culture repression is desired during the batch phase where cells grow on a surplus of e.g. glycerol, while heterologous gene expression should be active in the feed phase under carbon (e.g. glucose) limitation.

Results

DNA microarray analysis of P. pastoris wild type cells growing in glycerol-based batch and glucose-based fed batch was used for the identification of genes with both, strong repression on glycerol and high-level expression in the feed phase. Six novel glucose-limit inducible promoters were successfully applied to express the intracellular reporter eGFP. The highest expression levels together with strong repression in pre-culture were achieved with the novel promoters PG1 and PG6.

Human serum albumin (HSA) was used to characterize the promoters with an industrially relevant secreted protein. A PG1 clone with two gene copies reached about 230% of the biomass specific HSA titer in glucose-based fed batch fermentation compared to a PGAP clone with identical gene copy number, while PG6 only achieved 39%. Two clones each carrying eleven gene copies, expressing HSA under control of PG1 and PG6 respectively were generated by post-transformational vector amplification. They produced about 1.0 and 0.7 g L-1 HSA respectively in equal fed batch processes. The suitability in production processes was also verified with HyHEL antibody Fab fragment for PG1 and with porcine carboxypeptidase B for PG6. Moreover, the molecular function of the gene under the control of PG1 was determined to encode a high-affinity glucose transporter and named GTH1.

Conclusions

A set of novel regulated promoters, enabling induction without methanol, was successfully identified by using DNA microarrays and shown to be suitable for high level expression of recombinant proteins in glucose-based protein production processes.
Repressible promoters – A novel tool to generate conditional mutants in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Delic Marizela , Mattanovich Diethard , Gasser Brigitte
Published: January 2013

Background

Repressible promoters are a useful tool for down-regulating the expression of genes, especially those that affect cell viability, in order to study cell physiology. They are also popular in biotechnological processes, like heterologous protein production.

Results

Here we present five novel repressible Pichia pastoris promoters of different strength: P
SER1
, P
MET3
, P
THR1
, P
PIS1
and P
THI11
. eGFP was expressed under the control of each of these promoters and its fluorescence could be successfully decreased in liquid culture by adding different supplements. We also expressed the essential genes with different native promoter strength, ERO1 and PDI1, under the control of two of the novel promoters. In our experiments, a clear down-regulation of both repressible promoters on transcriptional level could be achieved. Compared to the transcript levels of these two genes when expressed under the control of their native promoters, only ERO1 was significantly down-regulated.

Conclusion

Our results show that all of the novel promoters can be used for repression of genes in liquid culture. We also came to the conclusion that the choice of the repressible promoter is of particular importance. For a successful repression experiment it is crucial that the native promoter of a gene and the repressible promoter in its non-repressed state are of similar strength.
Cerebral inflammation and mobilization of the peripheral immune system following global hypoxia-ischemia in preterm sheep
Authors: Jellema Reint K , Lima Passos Valéria , Zwanenburg Alex , Ophelders Daan RMG , De Munter Stephanie , Vanderlocht Joris , Germeraad Wilfred TV , Kuypers Elke , Collins Jennifer JP , Cleutjens Jack PM , Jennekens Ward , Gavilanes Antonio WD , Seehase Matthias , Vles Hans J , Steinbusch Harry , Andriessen Peter , Wolfs Tim GAM , Kramer Boris W
Published: January 2013

Background

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is one of the most important causes of brain injury in preterm infants. Preterm HIE is predominantly caused by global hypoxia-ischemia (HI). In contrast, focal ischemia is most common in the adult brain and known to result in cerebral inflammation and activation of the peripheral immune system. These inflammatory responses are considered to play an important role in the adverse outcomes following brain ischemia. In this study, we hypothesize that cerebral and peripheral immune activation is also involved in preterm brain injury after global HI.

Methods

Preterm instrumented fetal sheep were exposed to 25 minutes of umbilical cord occlusion (UCO) (n = 8) at 0.7 gestation. Sham-treated animals (n = 8) were used as a control group. Brain sections were stained for ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1) to investigate microglial proliferation and activation. The peripheral immune system was studied by assessment of circulating white blood cell counts, cellular changes of the spleen and influx of peripheral immune cells (MPO-positive neutrophils) into the brain. Pre-oligodendrocytes (preOLs) and myelin basic protein (MBP) were detected to determine white matter injury. Electro-encephalography (EEG) was recorded to assess functional impairment by interburst interval (IBI) length analysis.

Results

Global HI resulted in profound activation and proliferation of microglia in the hippocampus, periventricular and subcortical white matter. In addition, non-preferential mobilization of white blood cells into the circulation was observed within 1 day after global HI and a significant influx of neutrophils into the brain was detected 7 days after the global HI insult. Furthermore, global HI resulted in marked involution of the spleen, which could not be explained by increased splenic apoptosis. In concordance with cerebral inflammation, global HI induced severe brain atrophy, region-specific preOL vulnerability, hypomyelination and persistent suppressed brain function.

Conclusions

Our data provided evidence that global HI in preterm ovine fetuses resulted in profound cerebral inflammation and mobilization of the peripheral innate immune system. These inflammatory responses were paralleled by marked injury and functional loss of the preterm brain. Further understanding of the interplay between preterm brain inflammation and activation of the peripheral immune system following global HI will contribute to the development of future therapeutic interventions in preterm HIE.
The effect of flexor tenotomy on healing and prevention of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers on the distal end of the toe
Authors: van Netten Jaap J , Bril Adriaan , van Baal Jeff G
Published: January 2013

Background

Flexor tenotomy is a minimally invasive surgical alternative for the treatment of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers on the distal end of the toe. The influence of infection on healing and time to heal after flexor tenotomy is unknown. Flexor tenotomy can also be used as a prophylactic treatment. The effectiveness as a prophylactic treatment has not been described before.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed with the inclusion of all consecutive flexor tenotomies from one hospital between January 2005 and December 2011.

Results

From 38 ulcers, 35 healed (92%), with a mean time to heal of 22 ± 26 days. The longest duration for healing was found for infected ulcers that were penetrating to bone (35 days; p =. 042). Cases of prophylactic flexor tenotomies (n=9) did not result in any ulcer or other complications during follow‐up.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that flexor tenotomy may be beneficial for neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers on the distal end of the toe, with a high healing percentage and a short mean time to heal. Infected ulcers that penetrated to bone took a significantly longer time to heal. Prospective research, to confirm the results of this retrospective study, should be performed.
Peering into peer-review at GigaScience
Authors: Edmunds Scott C
Published: January 2013

Fostering and promoting more open and transparent science is one of the goals of GigaScience. One of the ways we have been doing this is by throwing light on the peer-review process and carrying out open peer-review as standard. In this editorial, we provide our rationale for undertaking this policy, give examples of our positive experiences to date, and encourage others to open up the normally opaque publication process.
The Shc family protein adaptor, Rai, acts as a negative regulator of Th17 and Th1 cell development
Authors: Savino Maria Teresa , Ulivieri Cristina , Emmi Giacomo , Prisco Domenico , De Falco Giulia , Ortensi Barbara , Beccastrini Enrico , Emmi Lorenzo , Pelicci Giuliana , DˈElios Mario M , Baldari Cosima T
Published: January 2013

Rai prevents lupus nephritis by impairing the development and expansion of both proinflammatory Th17 and Th1 cells.

Rai, a Shc adapter family member, acts as a negative regulator of antigen receptor signaling in T and B cells. Rai−/− mice develop lupus-like autoimmunity associated to the spontaneous activation of self-reactive lymphocytes. Here, we have addressed the potential role of Rai in the development of the proinflammatory Th1 and Th17 subsets, which are centrally implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of autoimmune diseases, including lupus. We show that Rai−/− mice display a spontaneous Th1/Th17 bias. In vitro polarization experiments on naive and effector/memory CD4+ T cells demonstrate that Rai−/− favors the development and expansion of Th17 but not Th1 cells, indicating that Rai modulates TCR signaling to antagonize the pathways driving naive CD4+ T cell differentiation to the Th17 lineage, while indirectly limiting Th1 cell development in vivo. Th1 and Th17 cell infiltrates were found in the kidneys of Rai−/− mice, providing evidence that Rai−/− contributes to the development of lupus nephritis, not only by enhancing lymphocyte activation but also by promoting the development and expansion of proinflammatory effector T cells. Interestingly, T cells from SLE patients were found to have a defect in Rai expression, suggesting a role for Rai in disease pathogenesis.
Increased Serum and Urinary MicroRNAs in Children with Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Luo Yang , Wang Cheng , Chen Xi , Zhong Tianying , Cai Xiaoyi , Chen Sidi , Shi Yonghui , Hu Jing , Guan Xiaocui , Xia Zhengkun , Wang Junjun , Zen Ke , Zhang Chen-Yu , Zhang Chunni
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are present in body fluids and may have the potential to serve as disease biomarkers. This study explored the clinical value of miRNAs in serum and urine as biomarkers for idiopathic childhood nephrotic syndrome (NS).

METHODS

We obtained serum samples from 159 NS children (24 steroid resistant and 135 steroid sensitive), 109 age/sex-matched healthy controls and 44 children with other kidney diseases. Serum miRNAs were analyzed with the TaqMan Low Density Array and then validated with a quantitative reverse-transcription PCR assay with 126 individual samples. Moreover, we collected paired serum samples from 50 patients before and after treatment to determine the value of these miRNAs for condition assessment. In addition, urine samples from these patients were examined for candidate miRNAs.

RESULTS

The concentrations of serum miR-30a-5p, miR-151-3p, miR-150, miR-191, and miR-19b were highly increased in NS children compared with controls (P < 0.0001). The urinary miR-30a-5p concentration was also increased in NS (P = 0.001). The area under the ROC curve and the odds ratio for the combined 5 serum miRNAs were 0.90 (95% CI, 0.86–0.94; P < 0.0001) and 40.7 (95% CI, 6.06–103; P < 0.0001), respectively. Moreover, the concentrations of the 5 serum miRNAs and urinary miR-30a-5p markedly declined with the clinical improvement of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We determined that 5 distinct serum miRNAs and urinary miR-30a-5p were increased in NS children. These circulating or urinary miRNAs may represent potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for idiopathic pediatric NS.
Crystal structure of 1-(7-methoxy-1-methyl-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indol-9-yl) ethanone monohydrate, C15H14N2O2·H2O, C15H16N2O3
Authors: Du Hong-Tao , Ma Fang , Zhang Ge-Chao , Liu Bing-Rui , Wang Jun-Ru
Published: January 2013

C15H16N2O3, tetragonal, I41/a (no. 88), a = 14.646(2) Å, c = 26.028(2) Å, V = 5583.4 Å3, Z = 16, Rgt(F) = 0.0497, wRref(F2) = 0.1680, T = 298 K.
Frequency Selective Surfaces Enable Mems Gas Sensor
Authors: Puscasu Irina , Pralle Martin U. , McNeal Mark P. , Moelders Nicholas , Last Lisa , Ho William , Greenwald Anton C. , Daly James T. , Johnson Edward A. , El-Kady Ihab , Biswas Rana
Published: January 2013

We have developed a thermally stimulated narrow-band infrared source for sensing, spectroscopy and thermophotovoltaic applications by combining the unique advantages of two different structures: a photonic crystal that consists of an array of holes etched into a dielectric substrate and a periodically perforated metallic thin film. The dielectric photonic crystal structure is passive and exhibits a strong absorption at resonance. This acts as a radiation reservoir for the conductive array, which plays an active role through plasmon interactions and is opaque at all wavelengths except those at which coupling occurs. We have fabricated the arrays on silicon, silicon dioxide and silicon nitride substrates using MEMS-based processing methods. Infrared spectroscopic studies were used to characterize reflection, absorption and emission in the 2 to 14 micron range showing narrow band resonance. Spectral tuning was accomplished by controlling symmetry and lattice spacing of the arrays. The effects of the etch depth, metal and dielectric properties have been studied experimentally and theoretically. These structures have been used as an emitter/detector sensor chip to selectively detect industrial pollutants like carbon dioxide.
Treatment of Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma With Rituximab Monotherapy: Progress Report and Comparison With Splenectomy
Authors: Kalpadakis Christina , Pangalis Gerassimos A. , Angelopoulou Maria K. , Sachanas Sotirios , Kontopidou Flora N. , Yiakoumis Xanthi , Kokoris Stella I. , Dimitriadou Evagelia M. , Dimopoulou Maria N. , Moschogiannis Maria , Korkolopoulou Penelope , Kyrtsonis Marie-Christine , Siakantaris Marina P. , Papadaki Theodora , Tsaftaridis Panayiotis , Plata Eleni , Papadaki Helen E. , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros P.
Published: January 2013

Background.

Treatment of splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) patients is not standardized. Recent data suggest that rituximab is highly effective and could be considered as initial therapy.

Aim.

To assess the efficacy of rituximab monotherapy in a large series of patients with SMZL and compare these results with splenectomy results.

Methods.

The studied population included 85 patients. Fifty-eight received rituximab at a dose of 375 mg/m2 per week for 6 weeks as induction followed by maintenance at the same dose every 2 months for 1–2 years, whereas 27 patients were treated using splenectomy only.

Results.

The overall response rate to rituximab 2 months after the end of induction was 95% (complete response [CR], 45%; unconfirmed CR, 26%; partial response, 24%). The median times to hematologic and clinical response were 2 weeks and 3 weeks, respectively. Forty-three of 55 patients already completed the maintenance phase: 28 sustained their initial response, 14 improved their response, and one progressed. Eighty-five percent of splenectomized patients responded, and two were treated with rituximab as consolidation after splenectomy and achieved a CR. The 5-year overall and progression-free survival (PFS) rates for rituximab-treated and splenectomized patients were 92% and 77% (p = .09) and 73% and 58% (p = .06), respectively. Furthermore, maintenance therapy with rituximab resulted in a longer duration of response (at 5 years, PFS was 84% for patients receiving maintenance and 36% for patients without maintenance, p <.0001).

Conclusions.

Rituximab is a very effective and well-tolerated therapy and may be substituted for splenectomy as the first-line treatment of choice for patients with SMZL.
Cancer Risk for Patients Using Thiazolidinediones for Type 2 Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bosetti Cristina , Rosato Valentina , Buniato Danilo , Zambon Antonella , La Vecchia Carlo , Corrao Giovanni
Published: January 2013

Learning Objectives

Evaluate the risk of cancer as well as cardiovascular and renal disease in the use of oral antidiabetics. Define and adequately quantify the effect of TZD on the risk of bladder cancer, other selected cancers, and all neoplasms.

Objective.

To clarify and quantify the effect of thiazolidinediones (TZDs; e.g., pioglitazone, rosiglitazone) on the risk of bladder cancer, other selected cancers, and overall cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Methods.

A PubMed/MEDLINE search was conducted for studies published in English up to June 30, 2012. Random-effect models were fitted to estimate summary relative risks (RR).

Results.

Seventeen studies satisfying inclusion criteria (3 case-control studies and 14 cohort studies) were considered. Use of TZDs was not associated to the risk of cancer overall (summary RR: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91–1.01). A modest excess risk of bladder cancer was reported in pioglitazone (RR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.07–1.34 from six studies) but not in rosiglitazone (RR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.95–1.23 from three studies) users. The RRs of bladder cancer were higher for longer duration (RR: 1.42 for >2 years) and higher cumulative dose of pioglitazone (RR: 1.64 for >28,000 mg). Inverse relations were observed with colorectal cancer (RR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.90–0.97 from six cohort studies) and liver cancer (RR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.48–0.89 from four studies), whereas there was no association with pancreatic, lung, breast, and prostate cancers.

Conclusions.

Adequate evidence excludes an overall excess cancer risk in TZD users within a few years after starting treatment. However, there is a modest excess risk of bladder cancer, particularly with reference to pioglitazone. Assuming that this association is real, the potential implications on the risk-benefit analysis of TZD use should be evaluated.
The UK National Health Service (NHS) and the sustainability agenda
Authors: Tudor Terry
Published: January 2013

The concepts of sustainability have, for some decades now, increasingly been employed to mitigate key socio-economic and environmental challenges globally. As one of the largest organisations in the world, the National Health Service can play a significant role in the UK achieving these concepts. This paper explores some of the issues associated with the organisation embedding these concepts, including the need to align sustainability with another impending reorganisation, and changes to healthcare delivery, as well as limitations in staff engagement. It concludes by suggesting strategies to overcome these challenges.
Changing How Students Process and Comprehend Texts with Computer-Based Self-Explanation Training
Authors: Kurby Christopher A. , Magliano Joseph P. , Dandotkar Srikanth , Woehrle James , Gilliam Sara , McNamara Danielle S.
Published: January 2013

This study assessed whether and how self-explanation reading training, provided by iSTART (Interactive Strategy Training for Active Reading and Thinking), improves the effectiveness of comprehension processes. iSTART teaches students how to self-explain and which strategies will most effectively aid comprehension from moment-to-moment. We used RSAT (Reading Strategy Assessment Tool) to assess how iSTART changes the relation between important self-explanation reading strategies—bridging and elaboration—and online comprehension, and how often they are produced. College and high school students received iSTART and were administered RSAT prior to and post-training. Results from three experiments showed that iSTART primarily benefits bridging inferences when self-explaining. The frequency of bridging inferences was higher post training than prior to training, but only in the experiments involving college students. Additionally, prior to exposure to iSTART, RSAT bridging scores did not predict comprehension performance, whereas they did after iSTART, suggesting that iSTART may improve comprehension processes by teaching students how to appropriately use self-explanation to address comprehension difficulties. Finally, the results from this study suggest that RSAT may provide a valuable computer-based assessment of the effectiveness of self-explanations that could be used in conjunction with iSTART and in future research on self-explanation.
Mouse Models of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Hayakawa Yoku , Fox James , Gonda Tamas , Worthley Daniel , Muthupalani Sureshkumar , Wang Timothy
Published: January 2013

Animal models have greatly enriched our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of numerous types of cancers. Gastric cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with a poor prognosis and high incidence of drug-resistance. However, most inbred strains of mice have proven resistant to gastric carcinogenesis. To establish useful models which mimic human gastric cancer phenotypes, investigators have utilized animals infected with Helicobacter species and treated with carcinogens. In addition, by exploiting genetic engineering, a variety of transgenic and knockout mouse models of gastric cancer have emerged, such as INS-GAS mice and TFF1 knockout mice. Investigators have used the combination of carcinogens and gene alteration to accelerate gastric cancer development, but rarely do mouse models show an aggressive and metastatic gastric cancer phenotype that could be relevant to preclinical studies, which may require more specific targeting of gastric progenitor cells. Here, we review current gastric carcinogenesis mouse models and provide our future perspectives on this field.
All-Optically Controlled Quantum Memory for Light with a Cavity-Optomechanical System
Authors: Li Jinjin , Bin Wen , Zhu Ka-Di
Published: January 2013

Optomechanics may be viewed as a light-mechanics interface to realize hybrid structures for (classical or quantum) information processing, switching or storage. Using the two-laser technique, in this paper, we theoretically devise a protocol for quantum light memory via a cavity optomechanical system composed of a Fabry–Perot cavity and a mechanical resonator. Due to the long-lived mechanical resonator, this quantum memory for light based on optomechanically induced transparency (OMIT) can serve as a long-term memory that can store the full quantum light contained in an optical pulse. It is shown that, with the tunable pump laser, the quantum signal light can be reaccelerated and converted back on demand. Our presented work could open the door to all-optical routers for light memory devices and have a guide to actual experiments.
Molecular Motions in Functional Self-Assembled Nanostructures
Authors: Dhotel Alexandre , Chen Ziguang , Delbreilh Laurent , Youssef Boulos , Saiter Jean-Marc , Tan Li
Published: January 2013

The construction of “smart” materials able to perform specific functions at the molecular scale through the application of various stimuli is highly attractive but still challenging. The most recent applications indicate that the outstanding flexibility of self-assembled architectures can be employed as a powerful tool for the development of innovative molecular devices, functional surfaces and smart nanomaterials. Structural flexibility of these materials is known to be conferred by weak intermolecular forces involved in self-assembly strategies. However, some fundamental mechanisms responsible for conformational lability remain unexplored. Furthermore, the role played by stronger bonds, such as coordination, ionic and covalent bonding, is sometimes neglected while they can be employed readily to produce mechanically robust but also chemically reversible structures. In this review, recent applications of structural flexibility and molecular motions in self-assembled nanostructures are discussed. Special focus is given to advanced materials exhibiting significant performance changes after an external stimulus is applied, such as light exposure, pH variation, heat treatment or electromagnetic field. The crucial role played by strong intra- and weak intermolecular interactions on structural lability and responsiveness is highlighted.
Parkinson’s Disease: A Complex Interplay of Mitochondrial DNA Alterations and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Ciccone Sarah , Maiani Emiliano , Bellusci Giovanna , Diederich Marc , Gonfloni Stefania
Published: January 2013

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common age-related neurodegenerative diseases. This pathology causes a significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the Substantia Nigra. Several reports have claimed a role of defective nuclear and mitochondrial DNA repair pathways in PD etiology, in particular, of the Base Excision Repair (BER) system. In addition, recent findings, related to PD progression, indicate that oxidative stress pathways involving c-Abl and GST could also be implicated in this pathology. This review focuses on recently described networks most likely involved in an integrated manner in the course of PD.
Designing Control Loops for Linear and Switching Power Supplies: A Tutorial Guide. By Christophe Basso, Artech House, 2012; 593 Pages. Price £99.00, ISBN 978-1-60807-557-7
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: January 2013

Loop control is an essential area of electronics engineering that today’s professionals need to master. Rather than delving into extensive theory, this practical book focuses on what you really need to know for compensating or stabilizing a given control system. You can turn instantly to practical sections with numerous design examples and ready-made formulas to help you with your projects in the field. You also find coverage of the underpinnings and principles of control loops so you can gain a more complete understanding of the material. This authoritative volume explains how to conduct analysis of control systems and provides extensive details on practical compensators. It helps you measure your system, showing how to verify if a prototype is stable and features enough design margin. Moreover, you learn how to secure high-volume production by bench-verified safety margins.
OpenOrbiter: A Low-Cost, Educational Prototype CubeSat Mission Architecture
Authors: Straub Jeremy , Korvald Christoffer , Nervold Anders , Mohammad Atif , Root Noah , Long Nicholas , Torgerson Donovan
Published: January 2013

The preliminary design for the Open Prototype for Educational NanoSats (OPEN) demonstration spacecraft, OpenOrbiter, is presented. OPEN is designed to facilitate the formation of CubeSat development programs nationally and worldwide via providing a publically-available set of spacecraft design documents, implementation and testing plans. These documents should allow the creation of a 1-U CubeSat with a parts budget of approximately $ 5,000. This allows spacecraft development to be incorporated in regular curriculum and supported from teaching (as opposed to research) funds. The OPEN design, implemented by OpenOrbiter, has an innovative internal structure, separates payload and operations processing and includes features to ease and highlight errors in integration.
Cytotoxic and Radical Scavenging Nor-Dammarane Triterpenoids from Viburnum mongolicum
Authors: Wang Xiaohua , Wang Wei
Published: January 2013

The ethanol extract of the whole plants of Viburnum mongolicum afforded six new nor-dammarane triterpenoids: 3β,12β-dihydroxy-25,26,27-trinordammara-22-en -24,20-olide (1), 3β,12β-dihydroxy-24α-methoxy-25,26,27-trinordammara-20,24-epoxy (2), 3β-O-acetyl-12β-hydroxy-23,24,25,26,27-hexanordammarane-20-one (3), 12β-O- acetyl-15α-hydroxy-17β-methoxy-3-oxo-20,21,22-23,24,25,26,27-octanordammanrane (4), 12β-O-acetyl-15α,17β-dihydroxy-3-oxo-20,21,22-23,24,25,26,27-octanordammanrane (5), and 12β,15α-dihydroxy-3-oxo-17-en-20,21,22-23,24,25,26,27-octanordammanrane (6), together with two known nor-dammarane triterpenoids, 12β-hydroxy-3-oxo-24α-methoxy- 25,26,27-trinordammara-20,24-epoxy (7) and 3β,12β-dihydroxy-23,24,25,26,27- hexanordammarane-20-one (8). The structures of the isolated compounds were established based on 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy, in addition to high resolution mass spectrometry. The isolated compounds were tested in vitro for cytotoxic potential against seven tumor cell lines and radical scavenging activities. Compounds 4–6 exhibited significant cytotoxic activities against all tested tumor cell lines and radical scavenging activities against ABTS·+ radicals comparable with the standard drug Trolox.
Virtual Induction Loops Based on Cooperative Vehicular Communications
Authors: Gramaglia Marco , Bernardos Carlos , Calderon Maria
Published: January 2013

Induction loop detectors have become the most utilized sensors in traffic management systems. The gathered traffic data is used to improve traffic efficiency (i.e., warning users about congested areas or planning new infrastructures). Despite their usefulness, their deployment and maintenance costs are expensive. Vehicular networks are an emerging technology that can support novel strategies for ubiquitous and more cost-effective traffic data gathering. In this article, we propose and evaluate VIL (Virtual Induction Loop), a simple and lightweight traffic monitoring system based on cooperative vehicular communications. The proposed solution has been experimentally evaluated through simulation using real vehicular traces.
Xylem vessel relays contribute to radial connectivity in grapevine stems (Vitis vinifera and V. arizonica; Vitaceae)
Authors: Brodersen Craig R. , Choat Brendan , Chatelet David S. , Shackel Kenneth A. , Matthews Mark A. , McElrone Andrew J.
Published: January 2013

• Premise of the study: Xylem network connections play an important role in water and nutrient transport in plants, but also facilitate the spread of air embolisms and xylem‐dwelling pathogens. This study describes the structure and function of vessel relays found in grapevine xylem that form radial and tangential connections between spatially discrete vessels.

• Methods: We used high‐resolution computed tomography, light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and single‐vessel dye injections to characterize vessel relays in stems and compare their distributions and structure in two Vitis species.

• Key results: Vessel relays were composed of 1–8 narrow diameter (∼25 µm) vessel elements and were oriented radially, connecting vessels via scalariform pitting within a xylem sector delineated by rays. The functional connectedness of vessels linked by vessel relays was confirmed with single‐vessel dye injections. In 4.5‐cm sections of stem tissue, there were 26% more vessel relays in V. vinifera compared with V. arizonica.

• Conclusions: Because of their spatial distribution within Vitis xylem, vessel relays increase the connectivity between vessels that would otherwise remain isolated. Differences in vessel relays between Vitis species suggest these anatomical features could contribute to disease and embolism resistance in some species.
Unorganized Machines
Authors: Boccato Levy , Soares Everton S. , Fernandes Marcos M. L. P. , Soriano Diogo C. , Attux Romis
Published: January 2013

This work presents a discussion about the relationship between the contributions of Alan Turing – the centenary of whose birth is celebrated in 2012 – to the field of artificial neural networks and modern unorganized machines: reservoir computing (RC) approaches and extreme learning machines (ELMs). Firstly, the authors review Turing’s connectionist proposals and also expose the fundamentals of the main RC paradigms – echo state networks and liquid state machines, - as well as of the design and training of ELMs. Throughout this exposition, the main points of contact between Turing’s ideas and these modern perspectives are outlined, being, then, duly summarized in the second and final part of the work. This paper is useful in offering a distinct appreciation of Turing’s pioneering contributions to the field of neural networks and also in indicating some perspectives for the future development of the field that may arise from the synergy between these views.
Shape Measurement of a Sewer Pipe Using a Mobile Robot with Computer Vision
Authors: Kawasue Kikuhito , Komatsu Takayuki
Published: January 2013

A mobile robot equipped with two lasers and a CCD camera for pipe inspection is proposed. Circular laser streaks that appeared on the inner surface of the pipe reveal the shape of the pipe. The 3D shape of a sewer pipe can be reconstructed considering the movement of the mobile robot along the pipe. Since the tilt of the mobile robot with respect to the axis of the pipe appears as the deformation between two circular streaks, the shape of a sewer pipe can be measured accurately, regardless of the tilt of the robot.
Andean and Tibetan patterns of adaptation to high altitude
Authors: Bigham Abigail W. , Wilson Megan J. , Julian Colleen G. , Kiyamu Melisa , Vargas Enrique , Leon‐Velarde Fabiola , Rivera‐Chira Maria , Rodriquez Carmelo , Browne Vaughn A. , Parra Esteban , Brutsaert Tom D. , Moore Lorna G. , Shriver Mark D.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

High‐altitude hypoxia, or decreased oxygen levels caused by low barometric pressure, challenges the ability of humans to live and reproduce. Despite these challenges, human populations have lived on the Andean Altiplano and the Tibetan Plateau for millennia and exhibit unique circulatory, respiratory, and hematological adaptations to life at high altitude. We and others have identified natural selection candidate genes and gene regions for these adaptations using dense genome scan data. One gene previously known to be important in cellular oxygen sensing, egl nine homolog 1 (EGLN1), shows evidence of positive selection in both Tibetans and Andeans. Interestingly, the pattern of variation for this gene differs between the two populations. Continued research among Tibetan populations has identified statistical associations between hemoglobin concentration and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotype at EGLN1 and a second gene, endothelial PAS domain protein 1 (EPAS1).

Methods

To measure for the effects of EGLN1 and EPAS1 altitude genotypes on hemoglobin concentration among Andean highlanders, we performed a multiple linear regression analysis of 10 candidate SNPs in or near these two genes.

Results

Our analysis did not identify significant associations between EPAS1 or EGLN1 SNP genotypes and hemoglobin concentration in Andeans.

Conclusions

These results contribute to our understanding of the unique set of adaptations developed in different highland groups to the hypoxia of high altitude. Overall, the results provide key insights into the patterns of geneticadaptation to high altitude in Andean and Tibetan populations. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:190–197, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Power to detect trends in abundance of secretive marsh birds: Effects of species traits and sampling effort
Authors: Steidl Robert J. , Conway Courtney J. , Litt Andrea R.
Published: January 2013

Standardized protocols for surveying secretive marsh birds have been implemented across North America, but the efficacy of surveys to detect population trends has not been evaluated. We used survey data collected from populations of marsh birds across North America and simulations to explore how characteristics of bird populations (proportion of survey stations occupied, abundance at occupied stations, and detection probability) and aspects of sampling effort (numbers of survey routes, stations/route, and surveys/station/year) affect statistical power to detect trends in abundance of marsh bird populations. In general, the proportion of survey stations along a route occupied by a species had a greater relative effect on power to detect trends than did the number of birds detected per survey at occupied stations. Uncertainty introduced by imperfect detection during surveys reduced power to detect trends considerably, but across the range of detection probabilities for most species of marsh birds, variation in detection probability had only a minor influence on power. For species that occupy a relatively high proportion of survey stations (0.20), have relatively high abundances at occupied stations (2.0 birds/station), and have high detection probability (0.50), ≥40 routes with 10 survey stations per route surveyed 3 times per year would provide an 80% chance of detecting a 3% annual decrease in abundance after 20 years of surveys. Under the same assumptions but for species that are less common, ≥100 routes would be needed to achieve the same power. Our results can help inform the design of programs to monitor trends in abundance of marsh bird populations, especially with regards to the amount of sampling effort necessary to meet programmatic goals. © 2013 The Wildlife Society