bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associated demographics of persistent exhaled nitric oxide elevation in treated asthmatics
Authors: Matsunaga K. , Yanagisawa S. , Hirano T. , Ichikawa T. , Koarai A. , Akamatsu K. , Sugiura H. , Minakata Y. , Matsunaga K. , Kawayama T. , Ichinose M.
Published: December 2011

Background

The fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) is reduced by anti‐inflammatory treatment in asthma. However, the FENO level is also regulated by individual demographics and there is considerable variation among clinically stable patients.

Objective

We hypothesized that some demographics may be responsible for persistent FENO elevation despite inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) therapy in asthma.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study. We initially screened 250 stable asthmatics and determined the FENO cut‐off point for identifying poorly controlled asthma defined by one of the following criteria: Asthma control test <20, or forced expiratory volume in one‐second % of predicted <80%, or peak expiratory flow variability <80% (Study 1). After 12‐weeks, 229 patients who maintained high or low FENO were selected and the independent factors which might contribute to a high FENO were examined (Study 2).

Results

A FENO level >39.5 p.p.b. yielded 67% sensitivity and 76% specificity for identifying the patients with poorly controlled asthma. The persistent high FENO group (≥40 p.p.b.) was more likely to be ex‐smokers, to show evidence of atopy (positive specific IgE, higher serum IgE and blood eosinophils), and to have allergic comorbidities. Especially, past smoking history, blood eosinophils, and chronic rhinosinusitis were identified to be independent predictors of high FENO. Neither the dose of ICS nor other medication use showed any difference between the groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

These results suggested that past smoking history, blood eosinophilia, and chronic rhinosinusitis are involved in the persistent airway inflammation detected by FENO. Although their relative contributions on FENO values should be further quantified, clarification of the features of the subjects with high FENO might provide clues for adjustment of the treatment approach in asthma.
Oral immunotherapy for IgE‐mediated cow's milk allergy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Brożek J. L. , Terracciano L. , Hsu J. , Kreis J. , Compalati E. , Santesso N. , Fiocchi A. , Schünemann H. J.
Published: December 2011

Cow's milk is a common cause of food allergy in children. Children usually outgrow cow's milk allergy by the age of 3–5 years, but some will have persistent symptoms beyond childhood. We performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies to assess the evidence supporting the use of oral immunotherapy in IgE‐mediated cow's milk allergy to inform the World Allergy Organization guidelines. Of 1034 screened articles published until May 2011, five RCTs and five observational studies fulfilled a priori specified inclusion criteria. RCTs including 218 patients showed that oral immunotherapy, compared to elimination diet alone, increased the likelihood of achieving full tolerance of cow's milk [relative risk: 10.0 (95% CI: 4.1–24.2)]. Adverse effects of immunotherapy include frequent local symptoms (16% of doses), mild laryngospasm [relative risk: 12.9 (1.7–98.6)], mild asthma [rate ratio: 3.8 (2.9–5.0)], reactions requiring oral glucocorticosteroids [relative risk: 11.3 (2.7–46.5)] or intramuscular epinephrine injection [rate ratio 5.8 (1.6–21.9)]. Results of observational studies were consistent with those of RCTs. Despite the availability of RCTs, the overall low quality of evidence leaves important uncertainty about anticipated effects of immunotherapy due to very serious imprecision of the estimates of effects and the likelihood of publication bias for some of the critical outcomes. A potentially large benefit of oral immunotherapy in patients with cow's milk allergy may be counterbalanced by frequent and sometimes serious adverse effects. Additional, larger RCTs measuring all patient‐important outcomes are still needed.
Viruses and type 1 diabetes: ignorance acquires a better vocabulary
Authors: Gale E A M
Published: December 2011

The hypothesis that a virus might in some way be involved in the causation of type 1 diabetes has a long history, but decades of research have failed to resolve the issue beyond reasonable doubt. Viruses could potentially play a primary role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes by initiating autoimmunity, a secondary role by promoting established immune responses, or a tertiary role by precipitating the onset of hyperglycaemia. There is currently little evidence to suggest that viruses play a primary role in the causation of type 1 diabetes, let alone a necessary or sufficient role. Secondary or tertiary roles remain possible, but have yet to be confirmed in prospective studies.
Maintaining equilibrium in professional role identity: a grounded theory study of health visitors’ perceptions of their changing professional practice context
Authors: Machin Alison I. , Machin Tony , Pearson Pauline
Published: December 2011

machin a.i., machin t. & pearson p. (2012) Maintaining equilibrium in professional role identity: a grounded theory study of health visitors’ perceptions of their changing professional practice context. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(7), 1526–1537.

Aims.  This article reports the study of a group of United Kingdom health visitors’ interactions with their changing practice context, focusing on role identity and influences on its stability.

Background.  United Kingdom policies have urged health visitors to refocus their role as key public health nurses. Reduced role identity clarity precipitated the emergence of different models of health visiting public health work. An inconsistent role standard can lead to role identity fragmentation and conflict across a group. It may precipitate individual role crisis, affecting optimum role performance.

Methods.  Seventeen health visitors in two United Kingdom community healthcare organizations participated in a grounded theory study, incorporating constant comparative analysis. Direct observations and individual interviews were undertaken between 2002 and 2008.

Results/findings.  Four interlinked categories emerged: professional role identity (core category); professional role in action; interprofessional working; and local micro‐systems for practice; each influencing participants’ sense of identity and self‐worth. The Role Identity Equilibrium Process explains interactive processes occurring at different levels of participants’ practice.

Conclusion.  Re‐establishing equilibrium and consistency in health visiting identity is a priority. This study’s findings have significance for other nurses and health professionals working in complex systems, affected by role change and challenges to role identity.
Children and adolescents living with atopic eczema: an interpretive phenomenological study with Chinese mothers
Authors: Cheung Winnie K.H. , Lee Regina L.T.
Published: December 2011

cheung w.k.h. & lee r.l.t. (2012) Children and adolescents living with atopic eczema: an interpretive phenomenological study with Chinese mothers. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(10), 2247–2255.

Aim.  This article is a report on a phenomenological study of Chinese mothers’ experiences of caring for their children who were living with atopic eczema.

Background.  A mother’s attitude and personality may have a direct influence on her child’s adherence to treatment for atopic eczema. Thus, good communication between healthcare professionals and the mother is essential. Treatment and care should also be culturally appropriate.

Methods.  Using an interpretive phenomenological method, 14 interviews were conducted in Hong Kong, China from September 2007 to August 2008, with nine mothers caring for their children who were living with atopic eczema. Crist and Tanner’s circular process of hermeneutic interpretive phenomenology was chosen to guide the data analysis.

Findings.  Mothers’ coping patterns involved persistently dealing with enduring demands and seeking alternative therapies that were aimed at curing the disease. Four themes finally emerged from the data: (1) dealing with extra mothering, (2) giving up their life, (3) becoming an expert and (4) living with blame and worry. Mothers’ coping patterns involved persistently finding ways to relieve their children’s suffering with the aim of curing the disease and dealing with their own emotions related to the frustration resulting from giving up their life and living with blame and worry.

Conclusion.  The study findings provide nurses with an empathic insight into mothers’ feelings and the enduring demands of caring for children with atopic eczema, and help nurses to develop culturally sensitive interventions, reinforce positive coping strategies, increase family function and improve health outcomes.
Structure of the pilus assembly protein TadZ from Eubacterium rectale: implications for polar localization
Authors: Xu Qingping , Christen Beat , Chiu Hsiu‐Ju , Jaroszewski Lukasz , Klock Heath E. , Knuth Mark W. , Miller Mitchell D. , Elsliger Marc‐André , Deacon Ashley M. , Godzik Adam , Lesley Scott A. , Figurski David H. , Shapiro Lucy , Wilson Ian A.
Published: December 2011

The tad (tight adherence) locus encodes a protein translocation system that produces a novel variant of type IV pili. The pilus assembly protein TadZ (called CpaE in Caulobacter crescentus) is ubiquitous in tad loci, but is absent in other type IV pilus biogenesis systems. The crystal structure of TadZ from Eubacterium rectale (ErTadZ), in complex with ATP and Mg2+, was determined to 2.1 Å resolution. ErTadZ contains an atypical ATPase domain with a variant of a deviant Walker‐A motif that retains ATP binding capacity while displaying only low intrinsic ATPase activity. The bound ATP plays an important role in dimerization of ErTadZ. The N‐terminal atypical receiver domain resembles the canonical receiver domain of response regulators, but has a degenerate, stripped‐down ‘active site’. Homology modelling of the N‐terminal atypical receiver domain of CpaE indicates that it has a conserved protein–protein binding surface similar to that of the polar localization module of the social mobility protein FrzS, suggesting a similar function. Our structural results also suggest that TadZ localizes to the pole through the atypical receiver domain during an early stage of pili biogenesis, and functions as a hub for recruiting other pili components, thus providing insights into the Tad pilus assembly process.
First record of a walnut shield bearer Coptodisca (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae) in Europe
Authors: Bernardo U. , Sasso R. , Gebiola M. , Viggiani G.
Published: December 2011

A leafminer of the Nearctic genus Coptodisca Walsingham (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae), a species of potential economic interest, is reported for the first time from Europe, infesting the black (Juglans nigra L.) and the common walnut (Juglans regia L.). Mines were collected since September of 2010 in several sites of two Italian regions (Campania and Lazio). The species is rather similar to Coptodisca juglandella (Chambers), the only Coptodisca known to attack walnuts, but at present, an unambiguous identification cannot be provided because of the unsatisfactory characterization of this leafminer and congeneric species. Three generations were recorded per year and leafminers overwinter as mature larvae. The first adults emerged in May–June while mature larvae of the last generation started the overwintering in September. During the last generation of the year, infestation levels of leaves were 100% in all sampled localities. Several species of parasitoids were reared from infested mines, with specimens belonging to the genus Chrysocharis (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) being the most frequent parasitoids.
Carabid beetle condition, reproduction and density in winter oilseed rape affected by field and landscape parameters
Authors: Haschek C. , Drapela T. , Schuller N. , Fiedler K. , Frank T.
Published: December 2011

The carabid beetles Amara similata and Poecilus cupreus are abundant in Central European winter oilseed rape (OSR) fields and potential antagonists of OSR pests. Therefore, they were investigated in 29 OSR fields relative to the influence of field and landscape parameters on their nutritional condition, reproductive potential and activity density. Nutritional condition was measured by a condition factor (CF). Fecundity of female beetles was expressed by the number of ripe oocytes in the ovaries. Activity density comprised the number of individuals caught with pitfall traps during their peak of reproductive period. Soil productivity and pest abundance (as a proxy of local prey availability) were considered as field parameters. Landscape parameters comprised the distance to the next fallow and the percentage of crop area around each study field. In eight of ten cases, pest abundance proved to be the most important factor explaining carabid characteristics, indicating that P. cupreus and A. similata consume insect pests in OSR fields. Pest abundance influenced the CF of both species and sexes positively. Oocyte numbers of A. similata were negatively related to the distance to the next fallow. Oocyte numbers of P. cupreus tended to increase with increasing pest abundance. Activity density of female A. similata was negatively influenced by soil productivity. Activity density of male A. similata and of female and male P. cupreus was negatively influenced by pest abundance. When analysing exclusively the influence of severe OSR pests (Meligethes aeneus, Ceutorhynchus napi and Dasineura brassicae), abundance of larval M. aeneus and C. napi was most important in explaining the CF and activity density of male A. similata, and male and female P. cupreus. M. aeneus and C. napi could be an essential prey for the carabids studied which may reduce the pests, thereby contributing to the protection of OSR from pest herbivory.
Newcastle disease virus: A promising agent for tumour immunotherapy
Authors: Zhao Lixiang , Liu Haiyan
Published: December 2011

Malignant tumours are a major cause of mortality in humans. Currently used therapeutic regimens have not improved survival rates of patients suffering from malignant tumours much because of their limited efficacy and side‐effects. A therapeutic approach that uses Newcastle disease virus (NDV) represents an attractive new tool for tumour immunotherapy. The present review highlights the mechanisms and advances that are likely to have considerable impact on NDV virotherapy.

Significant evidence exists regarding the oncolytic effects of NDV, suggesting its potential use in the treatment of various tumours. Furthermore, clinical trials have suggested that several NDV strains have the potential for cancer virotherapy with few side‐effects compared with traditional treatments.

Many studies have been performed to investigate the oncolytic mechanisms of NDV. Apoptosis following NDV infection may contribute to the observed oncolytic effects; however, NDV could also stimulate both innate and adaptive antitumour immune responses.

For many years, different approaches have been investigated (or are in the process of being developed) regarding the use of NDV for the treatment of malignancies. Recent advances using reverse genetics have provided a means of generating recombinant NDV strains with improved oncolytic and immune regulatory properties.
Transforming growth factor‐β/Smad signalling in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Lan Hui Yao
Published: December 2011

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major diabetic complication that is mediated by transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 via Smad‐dependent and ‐independent signalling pathways.

Under diabetic conditions, many profibrotic factors, such as advanced glycation end‐products and angiotensin II, can also activate the Smad signalling pathway via the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase/p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase–Smad signalling cross‐talk pathway. Thus, Smads act as signal integrators and interact with other signalling pathways to mediate DN.

In the context of renal fibrosis, Smad3 is pathogenic, but Smad2 is protective. Deletion of Smad3 inhibits, whereas disruption of Smad2 upregulates, connective tissue growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor expression and promotes both epithelial–myofibroblast and endothelial–myofibroblast transition.

Smad7 plays a protective role in DN because deletion of Smad7 enhances, whereas overexpression of Smad7 inhibits, Smad3‐mediated renal fibrosis and nuclear factor‐κB‐driven renal inflammation.

Transforming growth factor‐β1 activates Smad3 to regulate microRNAs that mediate renal fibrosis. Of these, miR‐21 and miR‐192 are upregulated, whereas the miR‐29 and miR‐200 families are downregulated.

Targeting downstream TGF‐β/Smad signalling by overexpressing Smad7‐ or Smad3‐dependent microRNA related to fibrosis may represent a novel and effective strategy for the treatment of DN.
Low‐dose celecoxib improves coronary function after acute myocardial ischaemia in rabbits
Authors: Zhao Ming , He Xi , Zhao Mei , Bi Xue‐Yuan , Zhang Hong‐Li , Yu Xiao‐Jiang , Liu Jin‐Jun , Li Dong‐Ling , Ma Xin , Zang Wei‐Jin
Published: December 2011

The role of celecoxib in cardiovascular events remains contentious. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of celecoxib in acute myocardial ischaemia (AMI) in rabbits in comparison with those of another non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, namely aspirin.

Male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into four groups: (i) a sham‐operated group; (ii) an AMI group, in which the left anterior descending coronary arteries were occluded for 60 min; (iii) the celecoxib + AMI group, pretreated with 3 mg/kg celecoxib, twice a day, for 3 days before AMI induction; and (iv) the aspirin + AMI group, pretreated with 12.5 mg/kg aspirin, twice a day, for 3 days before AMI induction. Haemodynamic parameters were monitored using a multichannel physiological recorder. Serum levels of creatine kinase (CK), malondialdehyde (MDA), cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, total nitrate/nitrite (NOx), nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and myocardial infarct size were determined. Changes in isometric tension of isolated coronary rings were recorded by a myograph system.

Compared with the sham group, the AMI group had lower blood pressure, higher left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic pressure, depressed maximum dP/dt of LV pressure, a larger infarct size and higher CK and MDA levels. Celecoxib, but not aspirin, pretreatment significantly ameliorated these effects of AMI. Celecoxib reversed AMI‐induced increases in COX‐2 levels to a similar extent as aspirin. Pretreatment with celecoxib resulted in a significant reduction in TNF‐α levels and an increase in NOx and NOS levels compared with the AMI group. The dysfunctional vasoconstriction and vasodilation of coronary arteries were ameliorated by celecoxib administration.

4. In conclusion, the experimental evidence suggests that celecoxib exerts its protective effects in a COX‐independent manner.
Depression is a common and chronic comorbidity in patients with interstitial lung disease
Authors: RYERSON CHRISTOPHER J. , AREAN PATRICIA A. , BERKELEY JANE , CARRIERI‐KOHLMAN VIRGINIA L. , PANTILAT STEVEN Z. , LANDEFELD C. SETH , COLLARD HAROLD R.
Published: December 2011

Background and objective:  Little is known about depression in interstitial lung disease (ILD). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression, characterize the association of depression with clinical variables and describe the natural history of depression in patients with ILD.

Methods:  In this prospective cohort study, clinical variables were recorded at baseline and 6 months. Depression was measured with the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale. Depression prevalence was determined using the established threshold of >15 points. Multivariate linear regression was used to determine the baseline features that independently correlated with baseline depression score and that predicted depression severity at follow‐up.

Results:  Fifty‐two subjects were enrolled, and 45 returned for follow‐up (three deaths, one lung transplant). Prevalence of depression was 21% at baseline. Independent predictors of depressive symptoms at baseline included dyspnoea severity, pain severity, sleep quality and forced vital capacity (R2 0.67). The odds of clinically meaningful depression at follow‐up were 34‐fold higher for subjects who had clinically meaningful depression at baseline compared with those who were not (95% confidence interval 3.5–422, P < 0.0005). Baseline depression score was the strongest predictor of depression score at follow‐up (r 0.59, P < 0.00005).

Conclusions:  Depressive symptoms in ILD are common, persistent, and strongly and independently correlated with dyspnoea, pain, sleep quality and forced vital capacity. Clinically meaningful depression at baseline is the most important predictor of depressive symptoms at follow‐up. Patients with ILD should routinely be screened for depression.
Prediction of morphine dose in humans
Authors: Holford Nick H. G. , Ma Shu C. , Anderson Brian J.
Published: December 2011

Background:  Morphine is widely used throughout the human life span. Several pharmacokinetic models have been proposed to predict how morphine clearance changes with weight and age. This study uses a large external data set to evaluate the ability of pharmacokinetic models to predict morphine doses.

Methods:  A data set of morphine clearance estimates was created from published reports in premature neonates, full‐term neonates, infants, children, and adults. This external data set was used to evaluate published models for morphine clearance as well as other models proposed for use in neonates and infants. Morphine clearance predictions were used to predict morphine dose rates to achieve similar target concentrations in all age groups.

Results:  An allometric ¾ power model using weight combined with a sigmoid maturation model using postmenstrual age successfully predicted the morphine dose rate (within 25% of target) in all age groups except infants [predicted dose 30% under target (95% CI, 7–46%)]. Other published models based on empirical allometric scaling all made unacceptable predictions (>100% of target) in at least one age group.

Conclusions:  Clearance based on empirical allometric scaling predicted unacceptable doses. Theory‐based allometric scaling combined with a maturation function has been confirmed by external evaluation to provide a sound basis for describing clearance and predicting morphine doses in humans of all ages.
Democracies and Deficits: Prospects for Fiscal Responsibility in Democratic Nations
Authors: POSNER PAUL , BLÖNDAL JÓN
Published: December 2011

The financial crisis had significant implications for the fiscal positions of OECD. As nations seek to cope with the economic contraction, budget deficits and debt have risen to near record postwar levels. As the crisis in Europe and other advanced economies has deepened, fiscal consolidation will have to be coupled, and even preceded, by actions to jump‐start crippled economies. Nonetheless, when fiscal consolidation becomes necessary, nations that procrastinate by waiting for a crisis to provide cover for the politically hard choices will pay a steep price indeed both economically and politically. Many in the academic and policy community have raised questions about whether advanced democracies have the political wherewithal to respond to gathering fiscal pressures through early and timely action. Recent fiscal actions in advanced nations suggest that democracies are not doomed to wait for market shocks and crises. Rather, leaders have shown that fiscal sacrifice can be achieved in ways that promote electability. In this article, we discuss the impetus for democratic fiscal actions and the strategies used to gain public support.
Antepartum haemorrhage of unknown origin and maternal cigarette smoking beyond the first trimester
Authors: Van Altvorst Marlies E.W.A. , Chan Eliza H.Y. , Taylor Rennae S. , Kenny Louise C. , Myers Jenny E. , Dekker Gustaaf A. , North Robyn A. , McCowan Lesley M.E. ,   On behalf of the SCOPE Consortium
Published: December 2011

Background

Antepartum haemorrhage of unknown origin (APHUO) is associated with preterm birth and perinatal mortality.

Aim

To determine whether smoking beyond the first trimester of pregnancy was an independent risk factor for APHUO.

Methods

Rates of APHUO were compared between non‐smokers and smokers, and non‐smokers and ceased smokers. Participants were healthy nulliparous women recruited to the Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints (SCOPE) prospective cohort study in New Zealand, Australia, Ireland and United Kingdom. Logistic regression was used to compare adjusted odds ratio, 95% confidence intervals (OR, 95% CI) of APHUO between continued smokers and non‐smokers, adjusting for possible confounders.

Results

Of the 3513 participants, 77.9% (n = 2737) were non‐smokers, 10.6% (n = 371) ceased in the first trimester and 11.5% (n = 405) continued smoking beyond the first trimester. APHUO rates were higher in smokers than non‐smokers (7.4%, n = 30 vs 4.5%, n = 122; P = 0.01), but there was no difference between ceased smokers and non‐smokers (4.3%, n = 16 vs 4.5%, n = 122; P = 0.90). Smoking was no longer significantly associated with APHUO after adjustment for confounders (adjusted OR = 1.28, 95% CI 0.76–2.14), but vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy (adjusted OR = 2.98, 95% CI 2.12–4.18) and overweight/obesity (adjusted OR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.02–1.99) were independent risk factors. First trimester folic acid use was associated with a reduced risk (adjusted OR = 0.44, 95% CI 0.25–0.77).

Conclusion

Smoking is not an independent risk factor for APHUO after adjustment for confounders, but other risk and protective factors have been identified.
The Impact of Human–Technology Cooperation and Distributed Cognition in Forensic Science: Biasing Effects of AFIS Contextual Information on Human Experts*
Authors: Dror Itiel E. , Wertheim Kasey , Fraser‐Mackenzie Peter , Walajtys Jeff
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Experts play a critical role in forensic decision making, even when cognition is offloaded and distributed between human and machine. In this paper, we investigated the impact of using Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) on human decision makers. We provided 3680 AFIS lists (a total of 55,200 comparisons) to 23 latent fingerprint examiners as part of their normal casework. We manipulated the position of the matching print in the AFIS list. The data showed that latent fingerprint examiners were affected by the position of the matching print in terms of false exclusions and false inconclusives. Furthermore, the data showed that false identification errors were more likely at the top of the list and that such errors occurred even when the correct match was present further down the list. These effects need to be studied and considered carefully, so as to optimize human decision making when using technologies such as AFIS.
The Effect of Electrical Lighting Power and Irradiance on Indoor‐Grown Cannabis Potency and Yield
Authors: Potter David J. , Duncombe Paul
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  The floral development and potencies [Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) contents] of cannabis plants were compared when grown indoors under high‐pressure sodium lamps consuming electrical power at three densities (270, 400, and 600 W/m2). After a 3‐week vegetative phase, plants were grown for 8 weeks, with lamps maintaining an artificial day length of 12 h. Foliar and floral yields were measured. Gas chromatography was used to measure the content of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC. Mean yields per unit of electrical power in each lighting regime ranged from 0.9 to 1.6 g/W, the highest being achieved in the lowest irradiance regime. The individual potencies of the separated leaf and flower materials were not affected by increasing irradiance. However, there was a corresponding increase in the overall potency of the aerial plant tissue. This was because of the plants in brighter conditions producing a higher proportion of floral material.
Cystamine attenuates lupus‐associated apoptosis of ventricular tissue by suppressing both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways
Authors: Tzang Bor‐Show , Hsu Tsai‐Ching , Kuo Cheng‐Yi , Chen Tzy‐Yen , Chiang Szu‐Yi , Li Sin‐Lun , Kao Shao‐Hsuan
Published: December 2011

Cystamine, a disulphide metabolite, has been demonstrated to ameliorate various lupus‐associated tissue damages by animal models. However, effects of cystamine on apoptosis of cardiac tissue, a main cardiac damage attributing to lupus, are less obvious. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether or not cystamine possesses anti‐apoptotic effects with emphasis on LV tissue of lupus‐prone mice NZB/W‐F1. Cystamine treatment was performed by daily intraperitoneal administration. Morphology and apoptotic status of ventricular tissues in the treated mice were assessed by microscopy and TUNEL assay, respectively. Levels of apoptotic biomarkers were determined using immunoblot. Our results revealed that cystamine significantly attenuated the apoptosis of LV tissues in NZB/W‐F1 mice, whereas the morphology of the tissues was slightly altered. In addition, cystamine reduced level of Fas and inhibited activation of caspase‐8. Cystamine also increased level of Bcl‐2 and phosphorylation of Bad, and decreased level of Bad and truncated Bid (tBid). Moreover, level of cytosolic cytochrome c and Apaf‐1, and activation of caspase‐9 and caspase‐3 were suppressed in response to cystamine treatment. In Balb/c mice, as normal control mice, changes in cell morphology and levels of the tested apoptotic components were found insignificant in the LV tissues. These findings indicate that cystamine treatment attenuates apoptosis of LV tissues of NZB/W‐F1 mice through suppressing both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. Therefore, cystamine is considered beneficial to alleviating lupus‐associated cardiac damages.
Sebum, acne, skin elasticity, and gender difference – which is the major influencing factor for facial pores?
Authors: Kim BY , Choi JW , Park KC , Youn SW
Published: December 2011

Background

Enlarged facial pores have been esthetic problems and have become a matter of cosmetic concern. Several factors are supposed to be related to the enlargement of facial pores, although scientific evaluations were not performed yet.

Objective

To assess the correlation between facial pores and possible relating factors such as age, gender, sebum secretion, skin elasticity, and the presence of acne, using objective bioengineering instruments.

Methods

Sixty volunteers, 30 males and 30 females, participated in this study. Various parameters of facial pores were assessed using the Robo Skin Analyzer®. The facial sebum secretion and skin elasticity were measured using the Sebumeter® and the Cutometer®, respectively. These data were compared and correlated to examine the possible relationship between facial pores and age, sebum secretion and skin elasticity, according to gender and the presence of acne.

Results

Male gender and the existence of acne were correlated with higher number of facial pores. Sebum secretion levels showed positive correlation with facial pores. The R7 parameter of skin elasticity was negatively correlated with facial pores, suggesting increased facial pores with decreased skin elasticity. However, the age and the severity of acne did not show a definite relationship with facial pores.

Conclusion

Male, increased sebum and decreased skin elasticity were mostly correlated with facial pore development. Further studies on population with various demographic profiles and more severe acne may be helpful to elucidate the potential effect of aging and acne severity on facial pores.
The Translocation Selectivity of the Kinesins that Mediate Neuronal Organelle Transport
Authors: Huang Chun‐fang , Banker Gary
Published: December 2011

Polarized kinesin‐driven transport is crucial for development and maintenance of neuronal polarity. Kinesins are thought to recognize biochemical differences between axonal and dendritic microtubules in order to deliver their cargoes to the appropriate domain. To identify kinesins that mediate polarized transport, we prepared constitutively active versions of all the kinesins implicated in vesicle transport and expressed them in cultured hippocampal neurons. Seven kinesins translocated preferentially to axons and five translocated into both axons and dendrites. None translocated selectively to dendrites. Highly homologous members of the same subfamily displayed distinctly different translocation preferences and were differentially regulated during development. By expressing chimeric kinesins, we identified two microtubule‐binding elements within the motor domain that are important for selective translocation. We also discovered elements in the dimerization domain of kinesin‐2 motors that contribute to their selective translocation. These observations indicate that selective interactions between kinesin motor domains and microtubules can account for polarized transport to the axon, but not for selective dendritic transport.
Mandibular and dental manifestations of Gaucher disease
Authors: Saranjam HR , Sidransky E , Levine WZ , Zimran A , Elstein D
Published: December 2011

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 421–429

Gaucher disease is a systemic lysosomal storage disorder with a high prevalence among Ashkenazi Jews. It is caused by an inherited deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase. Common signs and symptoms include hepatosplenomegaly, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and skeletal involvement. Oral and dental manifestations are less commonly seen. These manifestations are often asymptomatic, although they may be detected by routine dental x‐rays. There are several case reports and a few larger series published describing patients with Gaucher disease who have mandibulo‐maxillofacial involvement. This review aims to examine the oral manifestations observed in Gaucher disease and to suggest practical guidelines for dealing with these often worrisome signs. Among the critical issues are the benign nature of Gaucher cell infiltration of the mandible and the critical importance of being prepared for postprocedure bleeding and/or infections. Therefore, it is essential that dental practitioners be aware of the possible oral and dental complications of Gaucher disease, as well as the available treatment modalities.
Connecting natural landscapes using a landscape permeability model to prioritize conservation activities in the United States
Authors: Theobald David M. , Reed Sarah E. , Fields Kenyon , Soulé Michael
Published: December 2011

Widespread human modification and conversion of land has led to loss and fragmentation of natural ecosystems, altering ecological processes and causing declines in biodiversity. The potential for ecosystems to adapt to climate change will be contingent on the ability of species to move and ecological processes to operate across broad landscapes. We developed a novel, robust modeling approach to estimate the connectivity of natural landscapes as a gradient of permeability. Our approach yields a map capable of prioritizing places that are important for maintaining and potentially restoring ecological flows across the United States and informing conservation initiatives at regional, national, or continental scales. We found that connectivity routes with very high centrality intersected proposed energy corridors in the western United States at roughly 500 locations and intersected 733 moderate to heavily used highways (104–106 vehicles per day). Roughly 15% of the most highly connected locations are currently secured by protected lands, whereas 28% of these occur on public lands that permit resource extraction, and the remaining 57% are unprotected. The landscape permeability map can inform land use planning and policy about places potentially important for climate change adaptation.
Harvesting Wind Energy Using a Galloping Piezoelectric Beam
Authors: Sirohi Jayant , Mahadik Rohan
Published: December 2011

Galloping of structures such as transmission lines and bridges is a classical aeroelastic instability that has been considered as harmful and destructive. However, there exists potential to harness useful energy from this phenomenon. This paper focuses on harvesting wind energy that is being transferred to a galloping beam. The beam has a rigid tip body with a D-shaped cross section. Piezoelectric sheets are bonded on the top and bottom surface of the beam. During galloping, vibrational motion is input to the system due to aerodynamic forces on the D-section, which is converted into electrical energy by the piezoelectric (PZT) sheets. The relative importance of various parameters of the system such as wind speed, material properties of the beam, electrical load and beam’s natural frequency are discussed. Experimental and analytical investigations of dynamic response and power output are performed on a representative device. A maximum output power of 1.14 mW was measured at a wind velocity of 10.5 mph on a prototype device of length 235 mm and width 25 mm. A potential application for this device is to power wireless sensor networks on outdoor structures such as bridges and buildings.
The Effects of Drilling Mud and Weight Bit on Stability and Vibration of a Drill String
Authors: Asghar Jafari Ali , Kazemi Reza , Faraji Mahyari Mohammad
Published: December 2011

The main goal of this research is to analyze the effects of drilling mud flow rate, drill string weight, weight on bit and angular velocity on stability and vibration of a drill string. To this end, kinetic and potential energies of a rotating drill string are written while axial and lateral vibrations are considered. The effects of the drill string’s weight, weight on bit and geometrical shortening are considered in the model. Drilling mud’s effects are modeled by the Paidoussis formulations. The finite element method is employed to discrete the formulations. The stabilizers are modeled by dropping the coincided nodes. Linear (Flutter method) and non-linear methods are employed to analyze a drill string’s stability for different weight on a bit, angular velocity, drilling mud flow rate and numbers and arrangements of stabilizers. These results represent the significant effects of non-linear terms. Also, the effects of drilling mud flow rate and weight on bit on the natural frequencies and time responses are illustrated. Increasing drilling mud flow rate causes decreasing of natural frequencies and vibrational amplitude. Furthermore, increasing weight on bit leads to decreasing natural frequencies and increasing vibrational amplitude. These formulations can be used to choose the safest working conditions in the drilling process.
Development of a New High-Precision Feeder for Micro-Sheet-Forming
Authors: Razali Akhtar , Qin Yi , Zhao Jie , Harrison Colin , Smith R.
Published: December 2011

Feeding the raw material accurately is essential in microsheet-forming, especially in multistage progressive forming operations and also when in particular, a certain feeding rate has to be maintained. Research into the microforming of thin sheet metals (<100 μm) led to investigations of the performance of existing sheet metal feeders, regarding their feeding accuracy and repeatability. The results indicated that the pursuance of greater feeding accuracy and repeatability, which was aimed at 5–15% of the strip thickness, was difficult to achieve with commercially-available feeders. A new high-precision and high-speed feeder was, therefore, developed for microsheet-forming. The feeder design was supported by motion analysis and feeding simulations. The feeder was constructed in collaboration with industrial partners. The conducted feeding tests and forming experiments demonstrated that greater feeding accuracy and repeatability can be achieved, compared to those of existing commercial feeders. This suggests a promising solution for high-precision strip feeding in microsheet-forming where thin sheet metals are to be fed.
HeteroFoaMs: Electrode Modeling in Nanostructured Heterogeneous Materials for Energy Systems
Authors: Chiu W. K. S. , Virkar A. V. , Zhao F. , Reifsnider K. L. , Nelson G. J. , Rabbi F. , Liu Q.
Published: December 2011

Heterogeneous functional materials, e.g., “HeteroFoaMs” are at the heart of countless energy systems, including heat storage materials, batteries, solid oxide fuel cells, and polymer electrolyte fuel cells. HeteroFoaMs are generally nanostructured and porous to accommodate transport of gasses or fluids, and must be multifunctional (i.e., active operators on mass, momentum, energy, or charge, in combinations). This paper will discuss several aspects of modeling the relationships between the constituents and microstructure of these material systems and their device functionalities. Technical advances based on these relationships will also be identified and discussed. Three major elements of the general problem of how to model HeteroFoaM electrodes will be addressed. Modeling approaches for ionic charge transfer with electrochemistry in the nanostructured porosity of the electrode will be discussed. Second, the effect of morphology and space charge on conduction through porous doped ceria particle assemblies, and their role in electrode processes will be modeled and described. And third, the effect of local heterogeneity and morphology on charge distributions and polarization in porous dielectric electrode materials will be analyzed using multiphysics field equations set on the details of local morphology. Several new analysis methods and results, as well as experimental data relating to these approaches will be presented. The value, capabilities, and limitations of the approaches will be evaluated.
Presence of Lamivudine or Emtricitabine Is Associated with Reduced Emergence of Nonnucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Mutations in an Efavirenz-Based Intermittent Antiretroviral Treatment Regimen
Authors: Trancart Stéphanie , Charreau Isabelle , Marchou Bruno , Bocquentin Muriel , Molina Jean-Michel , Izopet Jacques , Tangre Philippe , Aboulker Jean-Pierre , Taburet Anne-Marie ,   the ANRS 106 Study Group
Published: December 2011

Efavirenz concentrations were measured in 21 patients during an interruption cycle of the ANRS 106 Window trial. The median efavirenz concentrations in the patients 12 h, 3 days, and 7 days after discontinuation of the drug were 1,962 ng/ml, 416 ng/ml, and 112 ng/ml, respectively. The half-life ranged from 27 to 136 h. No relationship between efavirenz exposure and detection of nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) mutations was demonstrated. Patients who were treated by a lamivudine- or emtricitabine-based regimen had a lower risk of NNRTI mutation selection.
Identification of Novel
N
-(Morpholine-4-Carbonyloxy) Amidine Compounds as Potent Inhibitors against Hepatitis C Virus Replication
Authors: Kusano-Kitazume Akiko , Sakamoto Naoya , Okuno Yukiko , Sekine-Osajima Yuko , Nakagawa Mina , Kakinuma Sei , Kiyohashi Kei , Nitta Sayuri , Murakawa Miyako , Azuma Seishin , Nishimura-Sakurai Yuki , Hagiwara Masatoshi , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: December 2011

To identify novel compounds that possess antiviral activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV), we screened a library of small molecules with various amounts of structural diversity using an HCV replicon-expressing cell line and performed additional validations using the HCV-JFH1 infectious-virus cell culture. Of 4,004 chemical compounds, we identified 4 novel compounds that suppressed HCV replication with 50% effective concentrations of ranging from 0.36 to 4.81 μM.
N
′-(Morpholine-4-carbonyloxy)-2-(naphthalen-1-yl) acetimidamide (MCNA) was the most potent and also produced a small synergistic effect when used in combination with alpha interferon. Structure-activity relationship (SAR) analyses revealed 4 derivative compounds with antiviral activity. Further SAR analyses revealed that the
N
-(morpholine-4-carbonyloxy) amidine moiety was a key structural element for antiviral activity. Treatment of cells with MCNA activated nuclear factor κB and downstream gene expression. In conclusion,
N
-(morpholine-4-carbonyloxy) amidine and other related morpholine compounds specifically suppressed HCV replication and may have potential as novel chemotherapeutic agents.
Influence of Soil Use on Prevalence of Tetracycline, Streptomycin, and Erythromycin Resistance and Associated Resistance Genes
Authors: Popowska Magdalena , Rzeczycka Marzenna , Miernik Antoni , Krawczyk-Balska Agata , Walsh Fiona , Duffy Brion
Published: December 2011

This study examined differences in antibiotic-resistant soil bacteria and the presence and quantity of resistance genes in soils with a range of management histories. We analyzed four soils from agricultural systems that were amended with manure from animals treated with erythromycin and exposed to streptomycin and/or oxytetracycline, as well as non-manure-amended compost and forest soil. Low concentrations of certain antibiotic resistance genes were detected using multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), with
tet
(B),
aad
(A), and
str
(A) each present in only one soil and
tet
(M) and
tet
(W) detected in all soils. The most frequently detected resistance genes were
tet
(B),
tet
(D),
tet
(O),
tet
(T), and
tet
(W) for tetracycline resistance,
str
(A),
str
(B), and
aac
for streptomycin resistance, and
erm
(C),
erm
(V),
erm
(X),
msr
(A),
ole
(B), and
vga
for erythromycin resistance. Transposon genes specific for Tn
916
, Tn
1549
, Tn
B1230
, Tn
4451
, and Tn
5397
were detected in soil bacterial isolates. The MIC ranges of isolated bacteria for tetracycline, streptomycin, and erythromycin were 8 to >256 μg/ml, 6 to >1,024 μg/ml, and 0.094 to >256 μg/ml, respectively. Based on 16S rRNA gene similarity, isolated bacteria showed high sequence identity to genera typical of soil communities. Bacteria with the highest MICs were detected in manure-amended soils or soils from agricultural systems with a history of antibiotic use. Non-manure-amended soils yielded larger proportions of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but these had lower MICs, carried fewer antibiotic resistance genes, and did not display multidrug resistance (MDR).
In Vitro
Activity of BMS-790052 on Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 4 NS5A
Authors: Wang Chunfu , Jia Lingling , Huang Haichang , Qiu Dike , Valera Lourdes , Huang Xin , Sun Jin-Hua , Nower Peter T. , O'Boyle Donald R. , Gao Min , Fridell Robert A.
Published: December 2011

The antiviral profile of BMS-790052, a potent hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication complex inhibitor targeting nonstructural protein NS5A, is well characterized for HCV genotype-1. Here, we report that BMS-790052 inhibits hybrid replicons containing HCV genotype-4 NS5A genes with 50% effective concentrations (EC
50
s) ranging from 7 to 13 pM. NS5A residue 30 was an important site for BMS-790052-selected resistance in the hybrid replicons. Our results support the potential of BMS-790052 as a valuable component of combination therapy for HCV genotype-4 chronic infection.