bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying and Characterizing Important Trembling Aspen Competitors with Juvenile Lodgepole Pine in Three South-Central British Columbia Ecosystems
Authors: Newsome Teresa A. , Heineman Jean L. , Nemec Amanda F. Linnell
Published: March 2012

Critical height ratios for predicting competition between trembling aspen and lodgepole pine were identified in six juvenile stands in three south-central British Columbia ecosystems. We used a series of regression analyses predicting pine stem diameter from the density of neighbouring aspen in successively shorter relative height classes to identify the aspen-pine height ratio that maximizedR2. Critical height ratios varied widely among sites when stands were 8–12 years old but, by age 14–19, had converged at 1.25–1.5. MaximumR2values at age 14–19 ranged from 13.4% to 69.8%, demonstrating that the importance of aspen competition varied widely across a relatively small geographic range. Logistic regression also indicated that the risk of poor pine vigour in the presence of aspen varied between sites. Generally, the degree of competition, risk to pine vigour, and size of individual aspen contributing to the models declined along a gradient of decreasing ecosystem productivity.
Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Miliaras Dimosthenis , Konstantinides Emmanouel
Published: March 2012

This paper concerns a case of Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma (MFH) of the Breast in a 73-years-old woman. A lump was found in her right breast, measuring 1.7 cm in diameter. Surgical excision followed, and pathology revealed a highly atypical spindle cell tumor. Immunohistochemistry along the histological features, excluded the possibility of carcinoma, malignant phyllodes tumor, or another type of pure sarcoma. There was no history of previous irradiation in the region. MFH is among the rarest types of sarcoma of the breast, and most of the times behaves aggressively. Excision with wide, free-of-tumor margins is the most effective treatment, when feasible.
The Epidemiology of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Mexico: A Population-Based Study
Authors: López-Colombo Aurelio , Morgan Douglas , Bravo-González Dalia , Montiel-Jarquín Alvaro , Méndez-Martínez Socorro , Schmulson Max
Published: March 2012

Aims.The frequency of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in the general population of Mexico is unknown.Methods.To determine the prevalence of FGIDs, associated depression, and health care utilization, a population-based sampling strategy was used to select 500 households in the State of Tlaxcala, in central Mexico. Household interviews were conducted by two trained physicians using the Rome II Modular Questionnaire, a health-care and medication used questionnaire and the CES-D depression scale.Results.The most common FGIDs were IBS: 16.0% (95% CI: 12.9–19.5); functional bloating: 10.8% (8.2–13.9); unspecified functional bowel disorder: 10.6% (8.0–13.6); and functional constipation (FC): 7.4% (5.3–10.1). Uninvestigated heartburn was common: 19.6% (16.2–23.4). All FGIDs were equally prevalent among both genders, except for IBS (P=0.001), IBS-C (P<0.001), IBS-A/M (P=0.049), and FC (P=0.039) which were more frequent in women. Subjects with FGIDs reported higher frequencies of medical visits: 34.6 versus 16.8%; use of medications: 40.7 versus 21.6%; (bothP<0.001); and reported depression: 26.7 versus 6.7%, (P<0.001).Conclusion.In this first population-based study of FGIDs in Mexico, heartburn, IBS, functional distension, and FC were common. Only IBS, IBS-C, IBS-A/M, and FC were more frequent in women. Finally, FGIDs in Mexico had an increased burden of health care utilization and depression.
Impact of Turbocharger Non-Adiabatic Operation on Engine Volumetric Efficiency and Turbo Lag
Authors: Shaaban S. , Seume J.
Published: March 2012

Turbocharger performance significantly affects the thermodynamic properties of the working fluid at engine boundaries and hence engine performance. Heat transfer takes place under all circumstances during turbocharger operation. This heat transfer affects the power produced by the turbine, the power consumed by the compressor, and the engine volumetric efficiency. Therefore, non-adiabatic turbocharger performance can restrict the engine charging process and hence engine performance. The present research work investigates the effect of turbocharger non-adiabatic performance on the engine charging process and turbo lag. Two passenger car turbochargers are experimentally and theoretically investigated. The effect of turbine casing insulation is also explored. The present investigation shows that thermal energy is transferred to the compressor under all circumstances. At high rotational speeds, thermal energy is first transferred to the compressor and latter from the compressor to the ambient. Therefore, the compressor appears to be “adiabatic” at high rotational speeds despite the complex heat transfer processes inside the compressor. A tangible effect of turbocharger non-adiabatic performance on the charging process is identified at turbocharger part load operation. The turbine power is the most affected operating parameter, followed by the engine volumetric efficiency. Insulating the turbine is recommended for reducing the turbine size and the turbo lag.
The Potential of iPS Cells in Synucleinopathy Research
Authors: Linta Leonhard , Stockmann Marianne , Boeckers Tobias M. , Kleger Alexander , Liebau Stefan
Published: March 2012

α-synuclein is a protein involved in the pathogenesis of several so-called synucleinopathies including Parkinson's disease. A variety of models have been so far assessed. Human induced pluripotent stem cells provide a patient- and disease-specific model forin vitrostudies, pharmacotoxicological screens, and hope for future cell-based therapies. Initial experimental procedures include the harvest of patients’ material for the reprogramming process, the investigation of the patients genetic background in the cultured cells, and the evaluation of disease-relevant factors/proteins under various cell culture conditions.
Diagnostic Imaging of Canine Hepatobiliary Affections: A Review
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Kumar Adarsh , Varshney A. C. , Tyagi S. P. , Kanwar M. S. , Sharma S. K.
Published: March 2012

Hepatic disease is often treatable and has a predictable prognosis when a definitive diagnosis is made. The aim of clinicopathological evaluation of hepatobiliary affections is to identify and characterize hepatic damage and dysfunction, identify possible primary causes of secondary liver disease, differentiate causes of icterus, evaluate potential anaesthetic risks, assess prognosis and response to xenobiotics, and monitor response to therapy. This paper describes the different diagnostic methods and imaging techniques employed in diagnosis of hepatobiliary affections in dogs. Besides reviewing the significant clinical manifestations and imaging structural abnormalities in diagnostic approach to different hepatic affections, it also depicts radiographic, ultrasonographic, and wherever applicable, the laparoscopic characterization of different hepatic affections and target lesions encountered in clinical cases presented in the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, COVAS, Palampur in the year 2007-2008.
The New and Computationally Efficient MIL-SOM Algorithm: Potential Benefits for Visualization and Analysis of a Large-Scale High-Dimensional Clinically Acquired Geographic Data
Authors: Oyana Tonny J. , Achenie Luke E. K. , Heo Joon
Published: March 2012

The objective of this paper is to introduce an efficient algorithm, namely, the mathematically improved learning-self organizing map (MIL-SOM) algorithm, which speeds up the self-organizing map (SOM) training process. In the proposed MIL-SOM algorithm, the weights of Kohonen’s SOM are based on the proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller. Thus, in a typical SOM learning setting, this improvement translates to faster convergence. The basic idea is primarily motivated by the urgent need to develop algorithms with the competence to converge faster and more efficiently than conventional techniques. The MIL-SOM algorithm is tested on four training geographic datasets representing biomedical and disease informatics application domains. Experimental results show that the MIL-SOM algorithm provides a competitive, better updating procedure and performance, good robustness, and it runs faster than Kohonen’s SOM.
A Note on the Lebesgue‐Radon‐Nikodym Theorem with respect to Weighted p‐adic Invariant Integral on ℤp
Authors: Jeong Joohee , Rim Seog-Hoon
Published: March 2012

We will give the Lebesgue‐Radon‐Nikodym theorem with respect to weighted p‐adic q‐measure on ℤp. In special case, q = 1, we can derive the same result as Kim, 2012; Kim et al., 2011.
Detection and Quantification of Fluorescent Cell Clusters in Cryo-Imaging
Authors: Steyer Grant J. , Dong Feng , Kanodia Lehar , Roy Debashish , Penn Marc , Wilson David L.
Published: March 2012

We developed and evaluated an algorithm for enumerating fluorescently labeled cells (e.g., stem and cancer cells) in mouse-sized, microscopic-resolution, cryo-image volumes. Fluorescent cell clusters were detected, segmented, and then fit with a model which incorporated a priori information about cell size, shape, and intensity. The robust algorithm performed well in phantom and tissue imaging tests, including accurate (<2% error) counting of cells in mouse. Preliminary experiments demonstrate that cryo-imaging and software can uniquely analyze delivery, homing to an organ and tissue distribution of stem cell therapeutics.
A Meta-Analysis of Osteosarcoma Outcomes in the Modern Medical Era
Authors: Allison Daniel C. , Carney Scott C. , Ahlmann Elke R. , Hendifar Andrew , Chawla Sant , Fedenko Alex , Angeles Constance , Menendez Lawrence R.
Published: March 2012

Four decades ago, specialized chemotherapy regimens turned osteosarcoma, once considered a uniformly fatal disease, into a disease in which a majority of patients survive. Though significant survival gains were made from the 1960s to the 1980s, further outcome improvements appear to have plateaued. This study aims to comprehensively review all significant, published data regarding osteosarcoma and outcome in the modern medical era in order to gauge treatment progress. Our results indicate that published survival improved dramatically from 1960s to 1980s and then leveled, or in some measures decreased. Recurrence rates decreased in the 1970s and then leveled. In contrast, published limb salvage rates have increased significantly every recent decade until the present. Though significant gains have been made in the past, no improvement in published osteosarcoma survival has been seen since 1980, highlighting the importance of a new strategy in the systemic management of this still very lethal condition.
INS/WSN‐Integrated Navigation Utilizing LS‐SVM and H∞ Filtering
Authors: Xu Yuan , Chen Xiyuan , Li Qinghua
Published: March 2012

In order to achieve continuous navigation capability in areas such as tunnels, urban canyons, and indoors a new approach using least squares support vector machine (LS‐SVM) and H∞ filter (HF) for integration of INS/WSN is proposed. In the integrated system, HF estimates the errors of position and velocity while the signals in WSNs are available. Meanwhile, the compensation model is trained by LS‐SVM with corresponding HF states. Once outages of the signals in WSNs, the model is used to correct INS solution as HF does. Moreover, due to device reasons, there are slight fluctuations in sampling period in practice. For overcoming this problem of integrated navigation, the theoretical analysis and implementation of HF for an integrated navigation system with stochastic uncertainty are also given. Simulation shows the performance of HF is more robust compared with INS‐only solution and Kalman filter (KF) solution, and the prediction of LS‐SVM has the smallest error compared with INS‐only and back propagation (BP), the improvement is particularly obvious.
IL-8 and MCP Gene Expression and Production by LPS-Stimulated Human Corneal Stromal Cells
Authors: Shtein Roni M. , Elner Susan G. , Bian Zong-Mei , Elner Victor M.
Published: March 2012

Purpose. To determine time course of effect of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on production of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP) by cultured human corneal stromal cells.Methods. Human corneal stromal cells were harvested from donor corneal specimens, and fourth to sixth passaged cells were used. Cell cultures were stimulated with LPS for 2, 4, 8, and 24 hours. Northern blot analysis of IL-8 and MCP gene expression and ELISA for IL-8 and MCP secretion were performed. ELISA results were analyzed for statistical significance using two-tailed Student'st-test.Results. Northern blot analysis demonstrated significantly increased IL-8 and MCP gene expression after 4 and 8 hours of exposure to LPS. ELISA for secreted IL-8 and MCP demonstrated statistically significant increases (P<0.05) after corneal stromal cell stimulation with LPS.Conclusions. This paper suggests that human corneal stromal cells may participate in corneal inflammation by secreting potent leukocyte chemotactic and activating proteins in a time-dependent manner when exposed to LPS.
Reduced TCA Flux in Diabetic Myotubes: Determined by Single Defects?
Authors: Gaster Michael
Published: March 2012

The diabetic phenotype is complex, requiring elucidation of key initiating defects. Diabetic myotubes express a primary reduced tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle flux but at present it is unclear in which part of the TCA cycle the defect is localised. In order to localise the defect we studied ATP production in isolated mitochondria from substrates entering the TCA cycle at various points. ATP production was measured by luminescence with or without concomitant ATP utilisation by hexokinase in mitochondria isolated from myotubes established from eight lean and eight type 2 diabetic subjects. The ATP production of investigated substrate combinations was significantly reduced in mitochondria isolated from type 2 diabetic subjects compared to lean. However, when ATP synthesis rates at different substrate combinations were normalized to the corresponding individual pyruvate-malate rate, there was no significant difference between groups. These results show that the primary reduced TCA cycle flux in diabetic myotubes is not explained by defects in specific part of the TCA cycle but rather results from a general downregulation of the TCA cycle.
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate and Perfluorooctanoic Acid in Fish Fillet Samples
Authors: Paiano Viviana , Fattore Elena , Carrà Andrea , Generoso Caterina , Fanelli Roberto , Bagnati Renzo
Published: March 2012

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic (PFOA) acid are persistent contaminants which can be found in environmental and biological samples. A new and fast analytical method is described here for the analysis of these compounds in the edible part of fish samples. The method uses a simple liquid extraction by sonication, followed by a direct determination using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The linearity of the instrumental response was good, with average regression coefficients of 0.9971 and 0.9979 for PFOS and PFOA, respectively, and the coefficients of variation (CV) of the method ranged from 8% to 20%. Limits of detection (LOD) were 0.04 ng/g for both the analytes and recoveries were 90% for PFOS and 76% for PFOA. The method was applied to samples of homogenized fillets of wild and farmed fish from the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the samples showed little or no contamination by perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid, and the highest concentrations detected among the fish species analyzed were, respectively, 5.96 ng/g and 1.89 ng/g. The developed analytical methodology can be used as a tool to monitor and to assess human exposure to perfluorinated compounds through sea food consumption.
Uptake of Seeds Secondary Metabolites byVirola surinamensisSeedlings
Authors: Kato Massuo Jorge , Yoshida Massayoshi , Lopes Norberto Peporine , Silva Denise Brentan da , Cavalheiro Alberto José
Published: March 2012

The major secondary metabolites and fatty acids occurring in the seeds ofVirola surinamensiswere monitored by GC-MS during germination and seedling development. The role as carbon source for seedling development was indicated considering that both classes of compounds were similarly consumed in the seeds and that no selective consumption of compounds could be detected.
Novel Suicide by Division of a Chronically Infected, Externalised Axillofemoral Graft Presenting Challenges in Prehospital Assessment of Mental Capacity
Authors: Stevens Lewis G. , Roberts Keith J.
Published: March 2012

Assessing a patient's competence to give informed consent in pre-hospital care is difficult. In the presented case an elderly patient attempted suicide by division of a chronically infected and externalised prosthetic arterial graft. He was able to comprehend his situation and understand the consequences of declining treatment. Without prior knowledge of his medical care and psychological state, however, we did not believe we could fully assess the patient's ability to act in his own best interest. After sedation and resuscitation he was transferred to hospital. This case report discusses a unique method of suicide and the challenge of obtaining valid consent in prehospital care.
Immunolocalization of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Normal Murine Airway Epithelium and Changes following Induction of Ovalbumin-Induced Airway Inflammation
Authors: Tran Hai B. , Lewis Martin D. , Tan Lor Wai , Lester Susan E. , Baker Leonie M. , Ng Jia , Hamilton-Bruce Monica A. , Hill Catherine L. , Koblar Simon A. , Rischmueller Maureen , Ruffin Richard E. , Wormald Peter J. , Zalewski Peter D. , Lang Carol J.
Published: March 2012

Little is known about innate immunity and components of inflammasomes in airway epithelium. This study evaluated immunohistological evidence for NLRP3 inflammasomes in normal and inflamed murine (Balb/c) airway epithelium in a model of ovalbumin (OVA) induced allergic airway inflammation. The airway epithelium of control mice exhibited strong cytoplasmic staining for total caspase-1, ASC, and NLRP3, whereas the OVA mice exhibited strong staining for active caspase-1, with redistribution of caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18, indicating possible activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Active caspase-1, NLRP3, and other inflammasome components were also detected in tissue eosinophils from OVA mice, and may potentially contribute to IL-1β and IL-18 production. In whole lung, inRNA expression of NAIP and procaspase-1 was increased in OVA mice, whereas NLRP3, IL-1β and IL-18 decreased. Some OVA-treated mice also had significantly elevated and tightly correlated serum levels of IL-1β and TNFα. In cultured normal human bronchial epithelial cells, LPS priming resulted in a significant increase in NLRP3 and II-lp protein expression. This study is the first to demonstrate NLRP3 inflammasome components in normal airway epithelium and changes with inflammation. We propose activation and/or luminal release of the inflammasome is a feature of allergic airway inflammation which may contribute to disease pathogenesis.
Dirichlet Characters, Gauss Sums, and Inverse Z Transform
Authors: Gao Jing , Liu Huaning
Published: March 2012

A generalized Möbius transform is presented. It is based on Dirichlet characters. A general algorithm is developed to compute the inverse Z transform on the unit circle, and an error estimate is given for the truncated series representation.
Sulfur Dioxide and Emergency Department Visits for Stroke and Seizure
Authors: Szyszkowicz Mieczysław , Porada Eugeniusz , Tremblay Neil , Grafstein Eric
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to assess an association between ambient sulfur dioxide and the number of emergency department (ED) visits for ischemic stroke and seizure. The study used data collected in a Vancouver (Canada) hospital in the years 1999–2003. Daily ED visits diagnosed as ministroke, stroke, or seizure were investigated using the case-crossover technique. Conditional logistic regression models were applied to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The models included temperature and relative humidity in the form of natural splines. The results were reported for an increase in interquartile range ((IQR),IQR=1.9ppb for SO2). Positive and statistically significant associations were obtained for SO2and ischemic stroke for all patients (OR=1.12; CI 1.02, 1.23; lag 3) and for female patients (OR=1.17; CI 1.01, 1.33; lag 0). In the case of ED visits for seizure, for female patients the results were also statistically significant (OR=1.15; CI 1.02, 1.28; lag 1 andOR=1.18; CI 1.05, 1.32; lag 2). These findings suggest that cases of ischemic cerebrovascular accidents are associated with acute exposure to ambient sulfur dioxide.
Combination Drug Therapy for Pain following Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Hama Aldric , Sagen Jacqueline
Published: March 2012

A number of mechanisms have been elucidated that maintain neuropathic pain due to spinal cord injury (SCI). While target-based therapeutics are being developed based on elucidation of these mechanisms, treatment for neuropathic SCI pain has not been entirely satisfactory due in part to the significant convergence of neurological and inflammatory processes that maintain the neuropathic pain state. Thus, a combination drug treatment strategy, wherein several pain-related mechanism are simultaneously
engaged, could be more efficacious than treatment against individual mechanisms alone. Also, by engaging several targets at once, it may be possible to reduce the doses of the individual drugs, thereby minimizing the potential for adverse side effects. Positive
preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated improved efficacy of combination drug treatment over single drug treatment in neuropathic pain of peripheral origin, and perhaps such combinations could be utilized for neuropathic SCI pain. At the same time, there are mechanisms that distinguish SCI from peripheral neuropathic pain, so novel combination therapies will be needed.
Epigenetic Control of Circadian Clock Operation during Development
Authors: Li Chengwei , Gong Changxia , Yu Shuang , Wu Jianguo , Li Xiaodong
Published: March 2012

The molecular players of circadian clock oscillation have been identified and extensively characterized. The epigenetic mechanisms behind the circadian gene expression control has also been recently studied, although there are still details to be illucidated. In this review, we briefly summarize the current understanding of the mammalian clock. We also provide evidence for the lack of circadian oscillation in particular cell types. As the circadian clock has intimate interaction with the various cellular functions in different type of cells, it must have plasticity and specicity in its operation within different epigenetic environments. The lack of circadian oscillation in certain cells provide an unique opportunity to study the required epigenetic environment in the cell that permit circadian oscillation and to idenfify key influencing factors for proper clock function. How epigenetic mechansims, including DNA methylaiton and chromatin modifications, participate in control of clock oscillation still awaits future studies at the genomic scale.
Detection Performance of Polarization and Spatial Diversities for Indoor GNSS Applications
Authors: Zaheri Mohammadreza , Broumandan Ali , Dehghanian Vahid , Lachapelle Gérard
Published: March 2012

Multipath fading in the form of signal power fluctuation poses a formidable challenge to GNSS signal detection in harsh multipath environments such as indoors. Antenna diversity techniques such as polarization and spatial diversities can be used to combat multipath fading in wireless propagation channels. This paper studies and compares GPS signal detection performance enhancements arising from the spatial and polarization diversity techniques. Performance enhancements are quantified from a theoretical perspective and later verified based on several test measurements in various indoor environments. Enhancement is quantified based on measuring the correlation coefficient values between diversity branches, SNR levels, and computing the level crossing rate and average fade duration. In addition, the processing gain is quantified and the performance of each individual diversity system is evaluated. Experimental results show that, for a given target detection performance in terms of the probability of false alarm and the probability of detection, the required input SNR level to meet the target detection performance can be significantly reduced utilizing the diversity system.
Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models in Chemical Risk Assessment
Authors: Mumtaz Moiz , Fisher Jeffrey , Blount Benjamin , Ruiz Patricia
Published: March 2012

Post-exposure risk assessment of chemical and environmental stressors is a public health challenge. Linking exposure to health outcomes is a 4-step process: exposure assessment, hazard identification, dose response assessment, and risk characterization. This process is increasingly adopting “in silico” tools such as physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models to fine-tune exposure assessments and determine internal doses in target organs/tissues. Many excellent PBPK models have been developed. But most, because of their scientific sophistication, have found limited field application—health assessors rarely use them. Over the years, government agencies, stakeholders/partners, and the scientific community have attempted to use these models or their underlying principles in combination with other practical procedures. During the past two decades, through cooperative agreements and contracts at several research and higher education institutions, ATSDR funded translational research has encouraged the use of various types of models. Such collaborative efforts have led to the development and use of transparent and user-friendly models. The “human PBPK model toolkit” is one such project. While not necessarily state of the art, this toolkit is sufficiently accurate for screening purposes. Highlighted in this paper are some selected examples of environmental and occupational exposure assessments of chemicals and their mixtures.
Indentation‐Induced Mechanical Deformation Behaviors of AlN Thin Films Deposited on c‐Plane Sapphire
Authors: Jian Sheng-Rui , Juang Jenh-Yih
Published: March 2012

The mechanical properties and deformation behaviors of AlN thin films deposited on c‐plane sapphire substrates by helicon sputtering method were determined using the Berkovich nanoindentation and cross‐sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). The load‐displacement curves show the “pop‐ins” phenomena during nanoindentation loading, indicative of the formation of slip bands caused by the propagation of dislocations. No evidence of nanoindentation‐induced phase transformation or cracking patterns was observed up to the maximum load of 80 mN, from either XTEM or atomic force microscopy (AFM) of the mechanically deformed regions. Instead, XTEM revealed that the primary deformation mechanism in AlN thin films is via propagation of dislocations on both basal and pyramidal planes. Furthermore, the hardness and Young’s modulus of AlN thin films estimated using the continuous contact stiffness measurements (CSMs) mode provided with the nanoindenter are 16.2 GPa and 243.5 GPa, respectively.
Comparison of a Chinese Herbal Medicine (CCH1) and Lactulose as First-Line Treatment of Constipation in Long-Term Care: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Double-Dummy, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Huang Chien-Hsun , Lin Jui-Shan , Li Tsai-Chung , Lee Shih-Chang , Wang Hsiu Po , Lue Hung-Chi , Su Yi-Chang
Published: March 2012

Many institutionalized patients and their healthcare providers are dissatisfied with current laxative therapy. This study compared therapeutic efficacy, safety, and laxative cost of an herbal formula (CCH1) and lactulose for long stay patients with constipation. In this double-blind, double-dummy, and placebo-controlled trial, we randomized 93 residents with chronic constipation from two long-term care facilities in Taiwan to receive either CCH1 with lactulose placebo or CCH1 placebo with lactulose for 8 weeks, then followed up for 4 weeks without study medication. Both treatments were effective and well tolerated for patients, but CCH1 produced more spontaneous bowel movements, less rectal treatments, less amount of rescue laxative, and lower laxative cost than lactulose during treatment. No significant differences were found in stool consistency, stool amount, global assessment, and safety concerns. In conclusion, our results suggest that CCH1 may have better efficacy and could be used as an alternative option to lactulose in the treatment of constipation in long-term care.
Role of Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury during Heart Transplantation
Authors: Vassalli Giuseppe , Milano Giuseppina , Moccetti Tiziano
Published: March 2012

In solid organ transplantation, ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury during organ procurement, storage and reperfusion is an unavoidable detrimental event for the graft, as it amplifies graft inflammation and rejection. Intracellular mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways regulate inflammation and cell survival during IR injury. The four best-characterized MAPK subfamilies are the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal- regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2), p38 MAPK, and big MAPK-1 (BMK1/ERK5). Here, we review the role of MAPK activation during myocardial IR injury as it occurs during heart transplantation. Most of our current knowledge regarding MAPK activation and cardioprotection comes from studies of preconditioning and postconditioning in nontransplanted hearts. JNK and p38 MAPK activation contributes to myocardial IR injury after prolonged hypothermic storage. p38 MAPK inhibition improves cardiac function after cold storage, rewarming and reperfusion. Small-molecule p38 MAPK inhibitors have been tested clinically in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, but not in transplanted patients, so far. Organ transplantation offers the opportunity of starting a preconditioning treatment before organ procurement or during cold storage, thus modulating early events in IR injury. Future studies will need to evaluate combined strategies including p38 MAPK and/or JNK inhibition, ERK1/2 activation, pre- or postconditioning protocols, new storage solutions, and gentle reperfusion.
Angular Response of Magnetostrictive Thin Films
Authors: Li Jianjun
Published: March 2012

The magnetostrictions of the single TbFe layer and coupled Py/TbFe2 bilayers were measured by using laser deflectometry. The dependences of the magntostriction performance on the driving magnetic field direction have been investigated. The relationship studies between the saturation bending angle and torsion angle of the single layer with perpendicular anisotropy and coupled bilayers with in‐plane uniaxial anisotropy have been conducted. Interesting “jump” reflecting the spin dynamics is observed in the magnetostriction loops of the coupled bilayers.
Cancer, Fertility Preservation, and Future Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Matthews Michelle L. , Hurst Bradley S. , Marshburn Paul B. , Usadi Rebecca S. , Papadakis Margaret A. , Sarantou Terry
Published: March 2012

Given the increases in 5-year cancer survival and recent advances in fertility preserving technologies, an increasing number of women with cancer are presenting for discussion of fertility preserving options. This review will summarize the risk of infertility secondary to cancer treatment, available treatment options for fertility preservation, and techniques to reduce future risks for patients. Concerns that will be addressed include the risk of the medications and procedures, the potential delay in cancer treatment, likelihood of pregnancy complications, as well as the impact of future pregnancy on the recurrence risk of cancer. Recent advances in oocyte cryopreservation and ovarian stimulation protocols will be discussed. Healthcare providers need to be informed of available treatment options including the risks, advantages, and disadvantages of fertility preserving options to properly counsel patients.
On a Discrete Inverse Problem for Two Spectra
Authors: Guseinov Gusein Sh.
Published: March 2012

A version of the inverse spectral problem for two spectra of finite‐order real Jacobi matrices (tridiagonal symmetric matrices) is investigated. The problem is to reconstruct the matrix using two sets of eigenvalues: one for the original Jacobi matrix and one for the matrix obtained by deleting the last row and last column of the Jacobi matrix.
Mitochondria-Targeted Drugs Synergize with 2-Deoxyglucose to Trigger Breast Cancer Cell Death
Authors: Cheng Gang , Zielonka Jacek , Dranka Brian P. , McAllister Donna , Mackinnon A. Craig , Joseph Joy , Kalyanaraman Balaraman
Published: March 2012

Cancer cells are long known to exhibit increased aerobic glycolysis, but glycolytic inhibition has not offered a viable chemotherapeutic strategy in part because of the systemic toxicity of antiglycolytic agents. However, recent studies suggest that a combined inhibition of glycolysis and mitochondrial function may help overcome this issue. In this study, we investigated the chemotherapeutic efficacies of mitochondria-targeted drugs (MTD) in combination with 2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG), a compound that inhibits glycolysis. Using the MTDs, termed Mito-CP and Mito-Q, we evaluated relative cytotoxic effects and mitochondrial bioenergetic changes in vitro. Interestingly, both Mito-CP and Mito-Q synergized with 2-DG to decrease ATP levels in two cell lines. However, with time, the cellular bioenergetic function and clonogenic survival were largely restored in some cells. In a xenograft model of human breast cancer, combined treatment of Mito-CP and 2-DG led to significant tumor regression in the absence of significant morphologic changes in kidney, liver, or heart. Collectively, our findings suggest that dual targeting of mitochondrial bioenergetic metabolism with MTDs and glycolytic inhibitors such as 2-DG may offer a promising chemotherapeutic strategy. Cancer Res; 72(10); 2634–44. ©2012 AACR.
Apolipoprotein E Gene Polymorphism in a Chinese Population with Vascular Dementia: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Bo , Shen Yuefei , Cen Luan , Tang Yulan
Published: March 2012

Background: Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene has been reported to be associated with the development of vascular dementia (VD); however, results from observational studies are conflicting. Methods: We surveyed all case-control studies on ApoE gene and VD patients with comprehensive search and review of the references. A meta-analysis was performed to demonstrate the association of ApoE gene with VD by random effects models. The association was assessed by odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: A total of 18 studies including 935 patients and 1,686 controls were eligible and abstracted. ApoE ε3/4 and ε4/4 genotype, as well as ε4 allele (OR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.52–2.49; OR = 3.47, 95% CI: 1.85–6.51 and OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.64–2.74, respectively) were associated with an increased risk of VD, while ApoE ε3/3 genotype and ε3 allele (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.53–0.79 and OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.53–0.80, respectively) trended to protect against VD. There was no significant difference in ApoE ε2 allele frequency, ε2/2, ε2/3 or ε2/4 genotype between VD and controls (OR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.61–1.17; OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.39–2.01; OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.61–1.09 and OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.57–1.84, respectively). Conclusions: Our results support a genetic association between ApoE polymorphism and VD in the Chinese population.
Impact of Age and Body Site on Adult Female Skin Surface pH
Authors: Schreml Stephan , Zeller Veronika , Meier Robert Johannes , Korting Hans Christian , Behm Barbara , Landthaler Michael , Babilas Philipp
Published: March 2012

Background: pH is known as an important parameter in epidermal barrier function and homeostasis. Aim: The impact of age and body site on skin surface pH (pHSS) of women was evaluated in vivo. Methods: Time domain dual lifetime referencing with luminescent sensor foils was used for pHSS measurements. pHSS was measured on the forehead, the temple, and the volar forearm of adult females (n = 97, 52.87 ± 18.58 years, 20–97 years). Every single measurement contained 2,500 pH values due to the luminescence imaging technique used. Results: pHSS slightly increases with age on all three investigated body sites. There are no significant differences in pHSS between the three investigated body sites. Conclusion: Adult pHSS on the forehead, the temple and the volar forearm increases slightly with age. This knowledge is crucial for adapting medical skin care products.
Effect of Cognitive and Aerobic Training Intervention on Older Adults with Mild or No Cognitive Impairment: A Derivative Study of the Nakajima Project
Authors: Sugano Keiko , Yokogawa Masami , Yuki Sohshi , Dohmoto Chiaki , Yoshita Mitsuhiro , Hamaguchi Tsuyoshi , Yanase Daisuke , Iwasa Kazuo , Komai Kiyonobu , Yamada Masahito
Published: March 2012

Background: An increasing elderly population in Japan requires effective cognitive intervention programs for dementia. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of such programs for older adults. Methods: The participants were local community-dwelling non-demented older adults and adults with mild cognitive impairment who underwent executive function and group aerobic training. In addition, a non-intervention group participated in activity sessions involving handicraft, Skutt ball matches, and cooking. The four criteria for assessment were cognitive function, instrumental activities of daily living, human relationships, and physical function. Results: The participants in both intervention groups showed a significant improvement in their memory function compared with the non-intervention group. Conclusion: Early rehabilitation intervention using executive function and aerobic training programs may improve memory.
Clinical Significance of Incident Hypokalemia and Hyperkalemia in Treated Hypertensive Patients in the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial
Authors: Alderman Michael H. , Piller Linda B. , Ford Charles E. , Probstfield Jeffrey L. , Oparil Suzanne , Cushman William C. , Einhorn Paula T. , Franklin Stanley S. , Papademetriou Vasilios , Ong Stephen T. , Eckfeldt John H. , Furberg Curt D. , Calhoun David A. , Davis Barry R.
Published: March 2012

Concerns exist that diuretic-induced changes in serum potassium may have adverse effects in hypertensive patients. The Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial, a large practice-based clinical trial, made it possible to examine consequences of observed changes in potassium during care in conventional practice settings. Normokalemic participants randomized to chlorthalidone (C) versus amlodipine or lisinopril as a first-step drug were stratified by year-1 potassium. Postyear-1 outcomes among hypokalemics (potassium, <3.5 mmol/L) and hyperkalemics (potassium, >5.4 mmol/L) were compared with normokalemics (potassium, 3.5–5.4 mmol/L). Year-1 hypokalemia incidence was 6.8%; incidence in C (12.9%) differed from amlodipine (2.1%;
P
<0.001) and lisinopril (1.0%;
P
<0.01). Hyperkalemia incidence (2.0%) was greater in lisinopril (3.6%) than in C (1.2%;
P
<0.01) or amlodipine (1.9%;
P
<0.01). Coronary heart disease occurred in 8.1% with hypokalemia, 8.0% with normokalemia, and 11.1% with hyperkalemia. Overall, mortality was higher in hypokalemics than in normokalemics (Cox hazard ratio, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.02–1.44]) with statistically significant (interaction,
P
<0.01) disparity in hazard ratios for the 3 treatment arms (hazard ratios, C=1.21, amlodipine=1.60, lisinopril=3.82). Hyperkalemia was associated with increased risk of combined cardiovascular disease (hazard ratio, 1.58 [95% CI, 1.15–2.18]) without significant treatment interactions. In conventional practice settings, the uncommon appearance of hyperkalemia was associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Hypokalemia was associated with increased mortality; however, the statistically significant heterogeneity in hazard ratios across treatment groups strongly suggests that the observed increase in mortality is unrelated to the specific effects of C. Thus, for most patients, concerns about potassium levels should not influence the clinician's decision about initiating hypertension treatment with low-moderate doses of thiazide diuretics (12.5–25.0 mg of C).
Relations Between Dairy Food Intake and Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Crichton Georgina E. , Elias Merrrill F. , Dore Gregory A. , Abhayaratna Walter P. , Robbins Michael A.
Published: March 2012

Modifiable risk factors, such as diet, are becomingly increasingly important in the management of cardiovascular disease, one of the greatest major causes of death and disease burden. Few studies have examined the role of diet as a possible means of reducing arterial stiffness, as measured by pulse wave velocity, an independent predictor of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether dairy food intake is associated with measures of arterial stiffness, including carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and pulse pressure. A cross-sectional analysis of a subset of the Maine-Syracuse Longitudinal Study sample was performed. A linear decrease in pulse wave velocity was observed across increasing intakes of dairy food consumption (ranging from never/rarely to daily dairy food intake). The negative linear relationship between pulse wave velocity and intake of dairy food was independent of demographic variables, other cardiovascular disease risk factors, and nutrition variables. The pattern of results was very similar for pulse pressure, whereas no association between dairy food intake and lipid levels was found. Further intervention studies are needed to ascertain whether dairy food intake may be an appropriate dietary intervention for the attenuation of age-related arterial stiffening and reduction of cardiovascular disease risk.
The Effect of Social Isolation On the Aggressive and Sexual Behaviour in a Cichlid Fish, Haplochromis Burtoni
Authors: Anders Fernö
Published: March 2012

Males of the mouthbreeding cichlid fish, Haplochromis burtoni, were visually isolated from conspecifics for periods of 15 minutes to 12 days. The number of attacks directed at adult conspecifics increased by 2 and 7 hours of isolation but after sufficiently long isolation (12 days) the attack rate decreased. The sexual activity increased after only 15 minutes of isolation. With longer periods of isolation this increase became more pronounced. The aggressive and sexual behaviour were thus differently affected by isolation and this disputes any influence on the reproductive behaviour in general. Shortly after termination of isolation the sexual activity was generally high while the attack rate was low. Throughout the first 30 minutes of contact with conspecifics the attack rate increased while the sexual activity decreased. After the longest periods of isolation, however, the maximal sexual activity tended to occur later (5-15 minutes after the isolation). After isolation periods of 3 and 12 days the increase of the sexual activity lasted a couple of hours while the decrease in the attack rate after 12 days of isolation seemed to persist for several days. The results can be explained in terms of adaptive short-term and long-term incremental and decremental processes in different motivational systems and an attempt is made to relate the results to the biological conditions of the species.
Group Organization of a Territorial Damselfish, Eupomacentrus Planifrons
Authors: Murray Itzkowitz
Published: March 2012

1. The damselfish Eupomacentrus Planifrons develops dense territorial populations in staghorn coral (Acropora cervicornis). 2. Field surveys and field experiments revealed that individuals preferred to maintain a territory in an inferior position within a large group than to be isolated on prime habitat. 3. Individuals in inferior positions within the group often meandered about the colony ("forays") in search of vacancies within superior habitats. 4. The size of the damselfish was correlated with habitat quality with larger individuals being found in superior portions of the staghorn colony. As areas became vacant, they were populated by individuals of similar size to the previous owner and to surrounding individuals. 5. As both males and females maintained territories within a colony, the larger colonies gave individuals greater access to potential mates. This has support since an individual's mobility outside the boundaries of its colony was limited and the most courtship was observed in the largest colonies. 6. Similarities between permanent territorial colonies and dominance systems are discussed.
Individual Recognition in a Cooperatively Breeding Cichlid: Evidence from Video Playback Experiments
Authors: Balshine-Earn Sigal , Lotem Arnon
Published: March 2012

Most theories of social behaviour and cooperation assume that animals can recognise other individuals, but this is rarefy tested. Using Neolamprologus brichardi, a cooperatively breeding cichlid fish, we monitored behavioural responses to (1) real fish versus video images of fish; (2) mate versus neighbour and (3) video images of mate versus video image of neighbour. All tests were controlled for size and sex. Fish reacted appropriately to the playbacks, although responses to videos were not as strong as to real fish. Both males and females fought against the images of stranger and neighbour fish and they courted images of mates. These results confirm that the cooperatively breeding fish, Neolamprologus brichardi, recognises individuals based on vision and that video playbacks contain sufficient information to facilitate recognition.
Isolated Spider Web Stabillmentum Attracts Insects
Authors: Tso I-Min
Published: March 2012

The insect-attraction function of silk stabilimenta spun by Argiope spiders was directly tested by examining if isolated stabilimenta will increase insect interception in artificial webs. Artificial webs were made from basswood frames and fine monofilaments coated with a sticky substance and were divided into two groups, experimental and control. In the experimental group, silk stabilimenta isolated from stabilimentum-decorated webs spun by Argiope aurantia were introduced. In the control group, corresponding areas collected from the undecorated webs of A. trifasciata were introduced. A general linear model was used to examine the effect of stabilimenta, web location, and date of data collection on insect interception in artificial webs. When the effects of location and date were simultaneously considered, artificial webs containing isolated stabilimenta intercepted significantly more flying insects (41.6% more) than those in the control group. However, there was no difference in orthopteran interception rates between experimental and control groups. These results indicate that silk stabilimenta of Argiope spiders do attract insects, although not all insects exhibit a strong orientation response to them.