bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of polyol and oil concentration in cosmetic products on skin moisturization and skin surface roughness
Authors: Kim Eunjoo , Nam Gae Won , Kim Seunghun , Lee Haekwang , Moon Seongjoon , Chang Ihseop
Published: March 2007

Background/purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the optimum combination of polyols and oils in moisturizing cosmetic products to improve the human skin moisturization and skin surface roughness. Polyols and oils are essential ingredients in skin care products, but it is still not understood how their concentrations affect their efficacy and sensory properties on human skin. We investigated the effect of polyol and oil concentration on skin properties by noninvasive methods.

Methods: The polyols consisted of glycerin and butylenes glycol in a ratio of 1:1 and the oils consisted of equal parts of hydrogenated polydecene, cethyl ethylhexanoate and pentaerythrityl tetraethylhexanoate. All cosmetic products were made in O/W emulsions in concentrations ranging from 0% to 30% for polyols and from 0% to 35% for oils. We investigated the effect on water content and skin surface roughness on the forearm after application of the cosmetic products. The skin water contents were measured by a Corneometer® CM825 and the skin surface roughness by visual coring of skin surface biopsies in the scanning electron micrographs.

Results: In the first study, we found that the water content of the skin correlated highly with the polyol (up to 30%) and oil (up to 12%) concentrations, respectively. At two hours after application, the correlation coefficients were 0.971 and 0.985, respectively (P<0.01). Skin surface roughness not only showed a strong concentration dependence on polyols and oils (up to 6%). In the second study, we investigated the optimum combination of polyols and oils to improve the skin moisturization and skin surface roughness by the Response surface methodology. The water content of the skin surface was high in the ratio of polyol to oil (30:12 and 25:30). The skin surface roughness was improved considerably in the ratio of polyols to oil (30:6 and 30:35).

Conclusions: Our results indicated that the skin surface properties were improved in the different ratios of their concentrations because they are influenced by not one ingredient but the interaction between polyols and oils. In this study, we could recommend the optimum concentration of polyols and oils to improve the skin surface properties. Further studies will be performed with other ingredients such as surfactants, lipids and so on.
Rab11‐FIP3 Is Critical for the Structural Integrity of the Endosomal Recycling Compartment
Authors: Horgan Conor P. , Oleksy Arkadiusz , Zhdanov Alexander V. , Lall Patrick Y. , White Ian J. , Khan Amir R. , Futter Clare E. , McCaffrey John G. , McCaffrey Mary W.
Published: March 2007

Rab11‐FIP3 is an endosomal recycling compartment (ERC) protein that is implicated in the process of membrane delivery from the ERC to sites of membrane insertion during cell division. Here we report that Rab11‐FIP3 is critical for the structural integrity of the ERC during interphase. We demonstrate that knockdown of Rab11‐FIP3 and expression of a mutant of Rab11‐FIP3 that is Rab11‐binding deficient cause loss of all ERC‐marker protein staining from the pericentrosomal region of A431 cells. Furthermore, we find that fluorophore‐labelled transferrin cannot access the pericentrosomal region of cells in which Rab11‐FIP3 function has been perturbed. We find that this Rab11‐FIP3 function appears to be specific because expression of the equivalent Rab11‐binding deficient mutant of Rab‐coupling protein does not perturb ERC morphology. In addition, we find that other organelles such as sorting and late endosomes are unaffected by loss of Rab11‐FIP3 function. Finally, we demonstrate the presence of an extensive coiled‐coil region between residues 463 and 692 of Rab11‐FIP3, which exists as a dimer in solution and is critical to support its function on the ERC. Together, these data indicate that Rab11‐FIP3 is necessary for the structural integrity of the pericentrosomal ERC.
Therapeutic use of erythropoietin in dermatooncology
Authors: Satzger Imke , Schenck Florian , Thol Felicitas , Ganser Arnold , Kapp Alexander , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: March 2007

Erythropoietin has been successfully used in Europe since 1997 in the treatment of anemia induced by chemotherapy of solid tumors. There is only limited experience with regard to its use when treating dermatologic tumors such as metastatic melanoma.We review here current guidelines on the use of erythropoietin in cancer patients and report on our own melanoma patients treated with erythropoietin for chemotherapy‐induced anemia.
Interdisciplinary Treatment Planning for Single‐Tooth Restorations in the Esthetic Zone
Authors: Simeone Piero , De Paoli Cristiana , De Paoli Sergio , Leofreddi Giuseppe , Sgrò Salvatore
Published: March 2007

This article presents a conservative approach for restoring single anterior teeth in patients with congenitally missing maxillary lateral incisors, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary treatment planning.

Minor orthodontic treatment was necessary to create the space for implant placement. Once the fixtures were inserted and the temporary abutments connected to the implants, the provisionals were relined with the use of a repositioning stone key. From the diagnostic wax‐up, it was decided that in order to attain a satisfying final esthetic outcome, it was necessary to also restore the distal aspect of the central incisors and the right first premolar for anatomical and functional reasons. Finally, after having screwed the abutments on the implants, inducing a torque of 20 Ncm, the metal‐ceramic restorations were cemented with temporary cement.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This article presents a systematic approach for restoring anterior teeth in the esthetic zone using a diagnostic additive wax‐up and an interdisciplinary approach to optimize the final esthetic outcome.
ROOT CARIES
Authors: Walter Ricardo , Swift Edward J.
Published: March 2007

The prevalence of root caries has increased in recent years, and the elderly population and irradiated patients are at particular risk. Prevention and treatment of root caries has become an important issue in restorative dentistry. The articles in this Critical Appraisal present different treatment options for this oral disease.
Protective Action of Amlodipine on Cardiac Negative Inotropism Induced by Lipopolysaccharide in Rats
Authors: Bravo Guadalupe , Kurtansky Alexander , López‐Muñoz Francisco Javier , Hong Enrique , Rojas Guillermo , Villalón Carlos M. , Huang Fengyang
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Amlodipine has been shown to prevent decrease in vascular responsiveness induced by injection of Salmonella typhosa lipopolysaccharide (LPS); however, there is no study reporting if this protection by amlodipine extends to ventricular contractility. Therefore, we have investigated in rat isolated right ventricle strips contracted by electrical stimulation (1 and 3 Hz and subsequently 1 Hz) whether pre‐treatment with amlodipine (15 mg/kg orally for 1 week) precludes the decrease in ventricular contractility related to the induction of nitric oxide synthase stimulated by LPS injection (4 mg/kg intraperitoneally). The induction of septic shock was confirmed in isolated aortic rings from LPS‐injected rats by verifying that the contractile response to 1 µM noradrenaline had been (i) decreased after LPS injection and (ii) markedly potentiated by the addition of 10 µM l‐arginine. The injection of saline to untreated and amlodipine‐treated rats produced a non‐significant effect on right ventricular contractility during 180 min. at 3 Hz; the recovery of the contractile response was improved when the stimulation frequency was subsequently returned to 1 Hz after 30 min. In contrast, injection of LPS to untreated and amlodipine‐treated rats (amlodipine + LPS) produced a decrease in right ventricular contractility during 180 min. at 3 Hz, an effect that was more pronounced in LPS than in amlodipine‐treated rats. These ex vivo results obtained after LPS injection suggest that amlodipine may have inhibited, at least in part, the induction of nitric oxide synthase with a resulting preclusion of the cardiovascular failure produced by septic shock.
Effects of Subchronic Lithium Treatment on Levels of BDNF, Bcl‐2 and Phospho‐CREB in the Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Hammonds Michael D. , Shim Seong S. , Feng Pingfu , Calabrese Joseph R.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Although it has been proposed that exposure to lithium up‐regulates brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), B‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma 2 protein (Bcl‐2) and cyclic AMP‐response element‐binding protein (CREB), and these molecules are involved in the neuroplastic actions and clinical efficacy of the drug, the several lines of evidence suggest that the lithium‐induced up‐regulation of these molecules has not been consistently confirmed. Few studies have examined the effects of lithium exposure on the regulation of these molecules in the dentate gyrus (DG) and area CA1 in the hippocampus. We examined the effects of subchronic lithium treatment on the levels of BDNF, Bcl‐2 and phosphorylated CREB in the DG and area CA1. We administered LiCl intraperitoneally (1 mEq/kg per day) to adult rats for 14 days, killed animals in 24 hr after the last administration of the drug, and determined the tissue levels of BDNF, Bcl‐2 and pCREB in the DG and area CA1. Subchronic lithium treatment for 14 days did not significantly alter the levels of BDNF, Bcl‐2 or phosphorylated CREB in the DG and area CA1 in the hippocampus. This study indicates that the lithium‐induced up‐regulation of these molecules may be various depending on the duration of lithium exposure and particular brain regions exposed to the drug.
Is there a future for the family?
Authors: Therborn Gäran
Published: March 2007

In the wake of the conservative policy review paper Breakdown Britain, which argued that government should financially promote marriage to tackle‘moral decline’, and an announcement from the Liberal Democrats that they too would use the tax and benefit system to ‘encourage marriage’, the premier sociologist of the family, Göran Therborn, unpicks the myth of the modern family.
Collaborative Practice
Authors: Katz Lynne , Ceballos Saribel Garcia , Scott Keith , Wurm Gwen
Published: March 2007

Collaborative Practice provides a forum for healthcare professionals to share expertise and enhance communication.
International Debt: The Constructive Implications of Some Moral Mathematics
Authors: Reddy Sanjay G.
Published: March 2007

Present arrangements governing the accumulation and discharge of debt by states are difficult to justify fully on the basis of underlying normative considerations. States are different from individuals in important respects, and the deontological justifications that explain why individuals have a strong burden to abide by promises to repay do not straightforwardly apply to countries. Consequentialist considerations must play a central role in determining what norms should govern the accumulation and discharge of sovereign debt. Modified background norms for the accumulation and discharge of international debt which permit countries’ repayments to be made formally contingent on specific circumstances and the reasons that these circumstances have arisen are more likely to be morally justifiable than the existing rules, which in general require countries to repay their debts according to an inflexible schedule. Modified rules for the accumulation and discharge of international sovereign debt can codify the moral and legal basis for existing ad hoc deviations and present a justifiable framework within which international lending and borrowing can take place.
National Responsibility and the Just Distribution of Debt Relief
Authors: Cappelen Alexander W. , Hagen Rune Jansen , Tungodden Bertil
Published: March 2007

The Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative is the largest multilateral effort aimed at providing debt relief. In this essay, we address the question of whether this program is consistent with a view of justice commonly known as liberal egalitarianism. We argue that the HIPC initiative violates two basic liberal egalitarian principles. More generally, we show why the debate on debt relief must move beyond a discussion of whether or not countries should be held responsible for their sovereign debt. We urge a more careful and broader classification of which of the factors affecting a country's situation it should be held responsible for and which it should not. While there are good arguments for sometimes not holding poor countries responsible for their sovereign debt, it is hard to see why the same arguments should not also apply to many other factors that affect a country's net disposable income.
Eviction behaviour of the common cuckoo Cuculus canorus chicks
Authors: Honza Marcel , Vošlajerová Katerina , Moskát Csaba
Published: March 2007

We studied the eviction behaviour of common cuckoo Cuculus canorus chicks by video recording at nests of great reed warblers Acrocephalus arundinaceus and reed warblers Acrocephalus scirpaceus. There were no significant differences in hatching mass and age at first eviction between cuckoos reared by either host. However, mass at eviction had a significant effect on the timing of first eviction event. No significant difference in time required to evict was found between serial intranest eviction events for cuckoos raised by either host. However, “great reed warbler” cuckoos evicted significantly quicker than “reed warbler” cuckoos during particular eviction events. A majority (70%) of “reed warbler” cuckoos evicted during the day, while most “great reed warbler” cuckoos evicted nocturnally (63%). We did not find any effect of the temperature inside or outside the nest on eviction behaviour. Both “great reed warbler” and “reed warbler” cuckoos evicted regardless the fact whether a parent was absent or present at the nest. Interestingly, individual cuckoos were consistent in their eviction behaviour relative to host presence or absence; particular cuckoo chick evicted only when the parents were present or absent from the nest.
Potentiation of glutamatergic synaptic transmission by protein kinase C‐mediated sensitization of TRPV1 at the first sensory synapse
Authors: Sikand Parul , Premkumar Louis S.
Published: March 2007

Sensory input from the periphery to the CNS is critically dependent on the strength of synaptic transmission at the first sensory synapse formed between primary afferent dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and superficial dorsal horn (DH) neurons of the spinal cord. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) expressed on a subset of sensory neurons plays an important role in chronic inflammatory thermal nociception. Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) sensitizes TRPV1, which may contribute to the pathophysiology of chronic pain conditions. In this study, we have examined the modulation of TRPV1‐mediated enhancement of excitatory synaptic transmission in response to PKC activation. Miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) from embryonic rat DRG–DH neuronal cocultures were recorded by patch clamping DH neurons. Capsaicin potently increased the frequency but not the amplitude of mEPSCs in a calcium‐dependent manner, suggesting TRPV1‐mediated glutamate release from presynaptic terminals of sensory neurons. Continued or repeated applications of capsaicin reduced the frequency of mEPSCs over time. The PKC activator phorbol 12,13‐dibutyrate (PDBu) alone increased mEPSC events to a certain extent in a reversible manner but capsaicin further synergistically enhanced the frequency of mEPSCs. The PKC inhibitor bisindolylmaleimide (BIM) abolished PDBu‐mediated potentiation of TRPV1‐dependent increases in mEPSC frequency, suggesting modulation of TRPV1 by PKC‐induced phosphorylation. In addition, at normal body temperatures (∼37°C) PKC‐mediated enhancement of mEPSC frequency is significantly decreased by a specific TRPV1 antagonist, suggesting a physiological role of TRPV1 at the central terminals. Furthermore, bradykinin (BK) significantly potentiated TRPV1‐modulated synaptic responses by activating the PLC‐PKC pathway. Our results indicate that TRPV1 activation can modulate excitatory synaptic transmission at the first sensory synapse and its effects can further be augmented by activation of PKC. Increased gain of sensory input by TRPV1‐induced enhancement of glutamate release and its potentiation by various inflammatory mediators may contribute to persistent pain conditions. Selective targeting of TRPV1 expressed on the central terminals of sensory neurons may serve as a strategy to alleviate chronic intractable pain conditions.
Modulation of hERG potassium currents in HEK‐293 cells by protein kinase C. Evidence for direct phosphorylation of pore forming subunits
Authors: Cockerill S. L. , Tobin A. B. , Torrecilla I. , Willars G. B. , Standen N. B. , Mitcheson J. S.
Published: March 2007

The humanether‐a‐go‐gorelated gene (hERG) potassium channel is expressed in a variety of tissues including the heart, neurons and some cancer cells. hERG channels are modulated by several intracellular signalling pathways and these provide important mechanisms for regulating cellular excitability. In this study, we investigated muscarinic modulation of hERG currents and direct phosphorylation of channel subunits expressed in HEK‐293 cells at physiologically relevant temperatures by protein kinase C (PKC). Activation of Gαq/11‐coupled M3‐muscarinic receptors with methacholine, reduced current amplitudes at all potentials with minor effects on the voltage dependence of activation and inactivation. The response to methacholine was insensitive to intracellular BAPTA, but was attenuated by either acute inhibition of PKC with 300 nmbisindolylmaleimide‐1 (bis‐1) or chronic down‐regulation of PKC isoforms by 24 h pretreatment of cells with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA). Stimulation of PKC with 1‐oleoyl 2‐acetylglycerol (OAG), an analogue of diacylglycerol (DAG), mimicked the actions of muscarinic receptor stimulation. Direct phosphorylation of hERG was measured by [32P]orthophosphate labelling of immunoprecipitated protein with an anti‐hERG antibody. Basal phosphorylation was high in unstimulated cells and further increased by OAG. The OAG dependent increase was abolished by bis‐1 and down‐regulation of PKC, but basal levels of phosphorylation were unchanged. Deletion of the amino‐terminus of hERG prevented both the modulation of channel activity and the increase of phosphorylation by OAG. Our results are consistent with calcium and/or DAG sensitive isotypes of PKC modulating hERG currents through a mechanism that involves direct phosphorylation of sites on the amino terminus of hERG.
Circulating angiotensin II attenuates the sympathetic baroreflex by reducing the barosensitivity of medullary cardiovascular neurones in the rat
Authors: McMullan Simon , Goodchild Ann K. , Pilowsky Paul M.
Published: March 2007

Chronic intravenous angiotensin II (Ang II) has been widely used to establish centrally mediated hypertension in experimental animals, and disruption of Ang II activity is a frontline treatment for hypertensive disease. However, the acute central actions of circulating Ang II are poorly understood. We examined the effects of intravenous pressor doses of Ang II on autonomic activity in anaesthetized rats under neuromuscular blockade, and compared baroinhibition evoked by Ang II pressor ramps to equipressor responses evoked by phenylephrine (PE). Baroinhibition of splanchnic sympathetic nerve activity was attenuated during Ang II trials compared with PE, and rats remained sensitive to electrical stimulation of the aortic depressor nerve at higher arterial pressures during Ang II trials. This was not due to a direct effect of Ang II on aortic nerve baroreceptors. In a separate series of experiments, we provide direct evidence that bulbospinal barosensitive neurones in the rostral ventrolateral medulla are differentially sensitive to pressure ramps evoked by Ang II or PE vasoconstriction. Nineteen out of 41 units were equally sensitive to increased arterial pressure evoked by Ang II or PE. In 17 of 41 units, barosensitivity was attenuated during Ang II trials, and in five of 41 cases units that had previously been barosensitive increased their firing rate during Ang II trials. These results show, for the first time, that circulating Ang II acutely modulates central cardiovascular control mechanisms. We suggest that this results from activation by Ang II of a central pathway originating at the circumventricular organs.
Strong Association of De Novo Copy Number Mutations with Autism
Authors: Sebat Jonathan , Lakshmi B. , Malhotra Dheeraj , Troge Jennifer , Lese-Martin Christa , Walsh Tom , Yamrom Boris , Yoon Seungtai , Krasnitz Alex , Kendall Jude , Leotta Anthony , Pai Deepa , Zhang Ray , Lee Yoon-Ha , Hicks James , Spence Sarah J. , Lee Annette T. , Puura Kaija , Lehtimäki Terho , Ledbetter David , Gregersen Peter K. , Bregman Joel , Sutcliffe James S. , Jobanputra Vaidehi , Chung Wendy , Warburton Dorothy , King Mary-Claire , Skuse David , Geschwind Daniel H. , Gilliam T. Conrad , Ye Kenny , Wigler Michael
Published: March 2007

We tested the hypothesis that de novo copy number variation (CNV) is associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We performed comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) on the genomic DNA of patients and unaffected subjects to detect copy number variants not present in their respective parents. Candidate genomic regions were validated by higher-resolution CGH, paternity testing, cytogenetics, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and microsatellite genotyping. Confirmed de novo CNVs were significantly associated with autism (
P
= 0.0005). Such CNVs were identified in 12 out of 118 (10%) of patients with sporadic autism, in 2 out of 77 (3%) of patients with an affected first-degree relative, and in 2 out of 196 (1%) of controls. Most de novo CNVs were smaller than microscopic resolution. Affected genomic regions were highly heterogeneous and included mutations of single genes. These findings establish de novo germline mutation as a more significant risk factor for ASD than previously recognized.
Promotion of Lymphocyte Egress into Blood and Lymph by Distinct Sources of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate
Authors: Pappu Rajita , Schwab Susan R. , Cornelissen Ivo , Pereira João P. , Regard Jean B. , Xu Ying , Camerer Eric , Zheng Yao-Wu , Huang Yong , Cyster Jason G. , Coughlin Shaun R.
Published: March 2007

Lymphocytes require sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor-1 to exit lymphoid organs, but the source(s) of extracellular S1P and whether S1P directly promotes egress are unknown. By using mice in which the two kinases that generate S1P were conditionally ablated, we find that plasma S1P is mainly hematopoietic in origin, with erythrocytes a major contributor, whereas lymph S1P is from a distinct radiation-resistant source. Lymphocyte egress from thymus and secondary lymphoid organs was markedly reduced in kinase-deficient mice. Restoration of S1P to plasma rescued egress to blood but not lymph, and the rescue required lymphocyte expression of S1P-receptor-1. Thus, separate sources provide S1P to plasma and lymph to help lymphocytes exit the low-S1P environment of lymphoid organs. Disruption of compartmentalized S1P signaling is a plausible mechanism by which S1P-receptor-1 agonists function as immunosuppressives.
Subsurface Radar Sounding of the South Polar Layered Deposits of Mars
Authors: Plaut Jeffrey J. , Picardi Giovanni , Safaeinili Ali , Ivanov Anton B. , Milkovich Sarah M. , Cicchetti Andrea , Kofman Wlodek , Mouginot Jérémie , Farrell William M. , Phillips Roger J. , Clifford Stephen M. , Frigeri Alessandro , Orosei Roberto , Federico Costanzo , Williams Iwan P. , Gurnett Donald A. , Nielsen Erling , Hagfors Tor , Heggy Essam , Stofan Ellen R. , Plettemeier Dirk , Watters Thomas R. , Leuschen Carlton J. , Edenhofer Peter
Published: March 2007

The ice-rich south polar layered deposits of Mars were probed with the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionospheric Sounding on the Mars Express orbiter. The radar signals penetrate deep into the deposits (more than 3.7 kilometers). For most of the area, a reflection is detected at a time delay that is consistent with an interface between the deposits and the substrate. The reflected power from this interface indicates minimal attenuation of the signal, suggesting a composition of nearly pure water ice. Maps were generated of the topography of the basal interface and the thickness of the layered deposits. A set of buried depressions is seen within 300 kilometers of the pole. The thickness map shows an asymmetric distribution of the deposits and regions of anomalous thickness. The total volume is estimated to be 1.6 × 10
6
cubic kilometers, which is equivalent to a global water layer approximately 11 meters thick.
Single-Step Pathway for Synthesis of Glucosylglycerate inPersephonella marina
Authors: Fernandes Chantal , Empadinhas Nuno , da Costa Milton S.
Published: March 2007

A single-step pathway for the synthesis of the compatible solute glucosylglycerate (GG) is proposed based on the activity of a recombinant glucosylglycerate synthase (Ggs) fromPersephonella marina. The corresponding gene encoded a putative glycosyltransferase that was part of an operon-like structure which also contained the genes for glucosyl-3-phosphoglycerate synthase (GpgS) and glucosyl-3-phosphoglycerate phosphatase (GpgP), the enzymes that lead to the synthesis of GG through the formation of glucosyl-3-phosphoglycerate. The putative glucosyltransferase gene was expressed inEscherichia coli, and the recombinant product catalyzed the synthesis of GG in one step from ADP-glucose andd-glycerate, withKmvalues at 70°C of 1.5 and 2.2 mM, respectively. This glucosylglycerate synthase (Ggs) was also able to use GDP- and UDP-glucose as donors to form GG, but the efficiencies were lower. Maximal activity was observed at temperatures between 80 and 85°C, and Mg2+or Ca2+was required for catalysis. Ggs activity was maximal and remained nearly constant at pH values between 5.5 and pH 8.0, and the half-lives for inactivation were 74 h at 85°C and 8 min at 100°C. This is the first report of an enzyme catalyzing the synthesis of GG in one step and of the existence of two pathways for GG synthesis in the same organism.
PROOF OF THE VARIATIONAL PRINCIPLE FOR A PAIR HAMILTONIAN BOSON MODEL
Authors: PULÉ JOSEPH V. , ZAGREBNOV VALENTIN A.
Published: March 2007

We give a two-parameter variational formula for the grand-canonical pressure of the Pair Boson Hamiltonian model. By using the Approximating Hamiltonian Method we provide a rigorous proof of this variational principle.
A BEM-BASED MESHLESS METHOD FOR ELASTIC BUCKLING ANALYSIS OF PLATES
Authors: CHINNABOON BOONME , CHUCHEEPSAKUL SOMCHAI , KATSIKADELIS JOHN T.
Published: March 2007

In this paper, a BEM-based meshless method is developed for buckling analysis of elastic plates with various boundary conditions that include elastic supports and restraints. The proposed method is based on the concept of the Analog Equation Method (AEM) of Katsikadelis. According to this method, the original eigenvalue problem for a governing differential equation of buckling is replaced by an equivalent plate bending problem subjected to an appropriate fictitious load under the same boundary conditions. The fictitious load is established using a technique based on BEM and approximated by using the radial basis functions. The eigenmodes of the actual problem are obtained from the known integral representation of the solution for the classical plate bending problem, which is derived using the fundamental solution of the biharmonic equation. Thus, the kernels of the boundary integral equations are conveniently established and evaluated. The method has all the advantages of the pure BEM. To validate its effectiveness, accuracy as well as applicability of the proposed method, numerical results of various problems are presented.
PREDICTIVE CONTROL AND SIGNAL ON NOISE REDUCTION FOR SEMI-ACTIVE HYDRAULIC DAMPER
Authors: SHIH MING-HSIANG , SUNG WEN-PEI
Published: March 2007

In the implementation of active or semi-active control systems, it is necessary to process the measured signals because they are not perfect in reality. At present, the current energy-dissipating method for controlling semi-active dampers is flawed because of some restrictions on processing and measuring the signals. Thus, a detection methodology of signal control is proposed in this research based on the direction of structural motion; a velocity estimating calculator is developed by using the least-square polynomial regression. Comparison of the analytical results and experimental data confirms that the proposed calculator is effective in predicting when to switch the moving direction of a semi-active damper. It can detect when the direction of the structure motion reverses as well as when to compensate the poor influence on the performance of a semi-active damper caused by the delayed response. Additionally, the noise of displacement signal will not affect the phase difference of predictive signals.
The Epidemiology of Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Newschaffer Craig J. , Croen Lisa A. , Daniels Julie , Giarelli Ellen , Grether Judith K. , Levy Susan E. , Mandell David S. , Miller Lisa A. , Pinto-Martin Jennifer , Reaven Judy , Reynolds Ann M. , Rice Catherine E. , Schendel Diana , Windham Gayle C.
Published: March 2007

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are complex, lifelong, neurodevelopmental conditions of largely unknown cause. They are much more common than previously believed, second in frequency only to mental retardation among the serious developmental disorders. Although a heritable component has been demonstrated in ASD etiology, putative risk genes have yet to be identified. Environmental risk factors may also play a role, perhaps via complex gene-environment interactions, but no specific exposures with significant population effects are known. A number of endogenous biomarkers associated with autism risk have been investigated, and these may help identify significant biologic pathways that, in turn, will aid in the discovery of specific genes and exposures. Future epidemiologic research should focus on expanding population-based descriptive data on ASDs, exploring candidate risk factors in large well-designed studies incorporating both genetic and environmental exposure data and addressing possible etiologic heterogeneity in studies that can stratify case groups and consider alternate endophenotypes.
Physical Activity and Weight Management Across the Lifespan
Authors: Goldberg Jennifer H. , King Abby C.
Published: March 2007

This review discusses key findings and recommendations related to the role of physical activity in weight gain prevention, weight loss, and weight-loss maintenance across the lifespan. For weight gain prevention, epidemiological and clinical studies suggest that regular physical activity is critical, with increases above the recommended 30 min daily for health (e.g., to 45 to 60 min daily) potentially desirable for curtailing weight gain. For weight loss, clinical studies suggest that physical activity interventions alone usually produce only modest results. Combining physical activity with dietary interventions increases the chance of success, especially at higher levels of physical activity (e.g., 200 to 300 min or more weekly). For weight-loss maintenance, high levels of physical activity (e.g., 40 to 90 min daily) may be necessary. To manage weight across the lifespan, a comprehensive approach to physical activity is needed supported by public policy interventions that help make physical activity a part of daily life.
Risk Communication for Public Health Emergencies
Authors: Glik Deborah C.
Published: March 2007

This review defines crisis risk communication, traces its origins to a number of applied fields, and then shows how basic principles have become incorporated into emergency preparedness and risk communication for public health. Literature from four different disciplines that inform crisis risk communications are reviewed. These are (a) environmental risk communication, (b) disaster management, (c) health promotion and communication, and (d) media and communication studies. Current curricula and training materials are briefly reviewed. Although this literature review suggests much progress has been made to incorporate and disseminate crisis risk communication principles into public health practice, and case studies suggest that public health workers have gained skills and experience, this emerging field still lacks in-depth evaluation of the effectiveness of event-specific crisis risk communication efforts.
Quality Improvement in Public Health Emergency Preparedness
Authors: Seid Michael , Lotstein Debra , Williams Valerie L. , Nelson Christopher , Leuschner Kristin J. , Diamant Allison , Stern Stefanie , Wasserman Jeffrey , Lurie Nicole
Published: March 2007

Quality improvement (QI) methods have been used in many industries to improve performance and outcomes. This chapter reviews key QI concepts and their application to public health emergency preparedness (PHEP). We conclude that for QI to flourish and become standard practice, changes to the status quo are necessary. In particular, public health should build its capabilities in QI, enhance implementation, and align incentives to facilitate use of QI.
Altered transit and bacterial overgrowth in the cystic fibrosis mouse small intestine
Authors: De Lisle Robert C.
Published: March 2007

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) may play an important role in the gastrointestinal complications of cystic fibrosis (CF). This work explored two potential factors in development of SIBO in the CF ( cftrtm1UNC) mouse: impaired Paneth cell innate defenses and altered gastrointestinal motility. Postnatal differentiation of Paneth cells was followed by Defcr, Lyzs, and Ang4 gene expression, and SIBO was measured by quantitative PCR of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Paneth cell gene expression was low in 4-day-old CF and wild-type (WT) mice and increased similarly in both groups of mice between 12 and 16 days. Peak Paneth cell gene expression was reached by 40 days of age and was less for Defcr and Lyzs in CF mice compared with WT, whereas Ang4 levels were greater in CF mice. SIBO occurred by postnatal day 8 in CF mice, which is before Paneth cell development. With the use of gavaged rhodamine-dextran to follow motility, gastric emptying in CF mice was slightly decreased compared with WT, and small intestinal transit was dramatically less. Since antibiotics improve weight gain in CF mice, their effects on gastric emptying and small intestinal transit were determined. Antibiotics did not affect gastric emptying or transit in CF mice but did significantly slow intestinal transit in WT mice, suggesting a potential role of normal microflora in regulating transit. In conclusion, small intestinal transit was significantly slower in CF mice, and this is likely a major factor in SIBO in CF.
Phloracetophenone-induced choleresis in rats is mediated through Mrp2
Authors: Tradtrantip Lukmanee , Piyachaturawat Pawinee , Soroka Carol J. , Harry Kathy , Mennone Albert , Mahagita Chitrawina , Ballatori Nazzareno , Boyer James L.
Published: March 2007

Phloracetophenone (2,4,6-trihydroxyacetophenone, THA) is a potent choleretic in the bile fistula rat, although the mechanism is unknown. In the present study, we examined how THA enhances bile secretion. Stepwise infusions of THA (1–4 μmol/min) in the isolated perfused rat liver resulted in an immediate and dose-dependent increase in bile flow (BF), which reached saturation. The increase in BF was not associated with a change in the excretion of bile acids, suggesting that THA stimulated bile acid-independent bile flow. To further define the mechanism, the effect of THA on the excretion of sulfobromophthalein (BSP) and disulfobromophthalein (DBSP), typical multidrug resistance protein-2 (Mrp2) substrates was examined. THA inhibited the biliary excretion of both substrates. Because DBSP is excreted without conjugation to glutathione, in contrast to BSP, the findings suggest that THA might compete with DBSP and BSP metabolites at a common canalicular transport site, presumably Mrp2. THA infusions had no effect on the subcellular localization and distribution of either Mrp2 or the bile salt export pump (Bsep), nor the integrity of the tight junction. In contrast, the choleretic activity of THA was completely absent in the TR−rat, an animal model that lacks Mrp2, directly implicating this canalicular export pump as the mechanisms by which THA is excreted in bile. THA also partially reversed the cholestatic effects of estradiol-17β-d-glucuronide, a process also dependent on Mrp2. In conclusion, the choleretic activity of THA and its possible metabolites is dependent on Mrp2. THA appears to stimulate BF by its osmotic effects and may attenuate the cholestatic effects of hepatotoxins undergoing biotransformation and excretion via similar pathways.
Cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide synthase dependence of cutaneous reactive hyperemia in humans
Authors: Medow Marvin S. , Taneja Indu , Stewart Julian M.
Published: March 2007

We tested the hypothesis that cyclooxygenases (COXs) or COX products inhibit nitric oxide (NO) synthesis and thereby mask potential effects of NO on reactive hyperemia in the cutaneous circulation. We performed laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF) with intradermal microdialysis in 12 healthy volunteers aged 19–25 yr. LDF was expressed as the percent cutaneous vascular conduction (%CVC) or as the maximum %CVC (%CVCmax) where CVC is LDF/mean arterial pressure. We tested the effects of the nonisoform-specific NO synthase inhibitor nitro-l-arginine (NLA, 10 mM), the nonspecific COX inhibitor ketorolac (Keto, 10 mM), combined NLA + Keto, and NLA + sodium nitroprusside (SNP, 28 mM) on baseline and reactive hyperemia flow parameters. We also examined the effects of isoproterenol, a β-adrenergic agonist that causes prostaglandin-independent vasodilation to correct for the increase in baseline flow caused by Keto. When delivered directly into the intradermal space, Keto greatly augments all aspects of the laser-Doppler flow response to reactive hyperemia: peak reactive hyperemic flow increased from 41 ± 5 to 77 ± 7%CVCmax, time to peak flow increased from 17 ± 3 to 56 ± 24 s, the area under the reactive hyperemic curve increased from 1,417 ± 326 to 3,376 ± 876%CVCmax·s, and the time constant for the decay of peak flow increased from 100 ± 23 to 821 ± 311 s. NLA greatly attenuates the Keto response despite exerting no effects on baseline LDF or on reactive hyperemia when given alone. Low-dose NLA + SNP duplicates the Keto response. Isoproterenol increased baseline and peak reactive flow. These results suggest that COX inhibition unmasks NO dependence of reactive hyperemia in human cutaneous circulation.
Hepatic steatosis and plasma dyslipidemia induced by a high-sucrose diet are corrected by an acute leptin infusion
Authors: Huang Wan , Dedousis Nikolas , O'Doherty Robert M.
Published: March 2007

High sucrose (HS) feeding in rats induces hepatic steatosis and plasma dyslipidemia. In previous reports (Huang W, Dedousis N, Bhatt BA, O'Doherty RM. J Biol Chem 279: 21695–21700, 2004; and Huang W, Dedousis N, Bandi A, Lopaschuk GD, O'Doherty RM. Endocrinology 147: 1480–1487, 2006), our laboratory demonstrated a rapid (∼100 min) leptin-induced decrease in liver and plasma VLDL triglycerides (TG) in lean rats, effects that were abolished in obese rats fed a high-fat diet, a model that also presents with hepatic steatosis and plasma dyslipidemia. To further examine the capacity of acute leptin treatment to improve metabolic abnormalities induced by nutrient excess, hepatic leptin action was studied in rats after 5 wk of HS feeding. HS feeding induced hepatic steatosis (TG +80 ± 8%; P = 0.001), plasma hyperlipidemia (VLDL-TG +102 ± 14%; P = 0.001), hyperinsulinemia (plasma insulin +67 ± 12%; P = 0.04), and insulin resistance as measured by homeostasis model assessment (+125 ± 20%; P = 0.02), without increases in adiposity or plasma leptin concentration compared with standard chow-fed controls. A 120-min infusion of leptin (plasma leptin 13.6 ± 0.7 ng/ml) corrected hepatic steatosis (liver TG −29 ± 3%; P = 0.003) and plasma hyperlipidemia in HS (VLDL-TG −42 ± 4%; P = 0.001) and increased plasma ketones (+45 ± 3%; P = 0.006), without altering plasma glucose, insulin, or homeostasis model assessment compared with saline-infused HS controls. In addition, leptin activated liver phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (+70 ± 18%; P = 0.01) and protein kinase B (Akt; +90 ± 29%; P = 0.02), and inhibited acetyl-CoA carboxylase (40 ± 7%; P = 0.04) in HS, further demonstrating that hepatic leptin action was intact in these animals. We conclude that 1) leptin action on hepatic lipid metabolism remains intact in HS-fed rats, 2) leptin rapidly reverses hepatic steatosis and plasma dyslipidemia induced by sucrose, and 3) the preservation of hepatic leptin action after a HS diet is associated with the maintenance of low adiposity and plasma leptin concentrations.
Potential for Colorectal Cancer Prevention of Sigmoidoscopy Versus Colonoscopy: Population-Based Case Control Study
Authors: Brenner Hermann , Chang-Claude Jenny , Seiler Christoph M. , Stürmer Til , Hoffmeister Michael
Published: March 2007

We aimed to estimate the proportions of colorectal cancer cases that might be prevented by sigmoidoscopy compared with colonoscopy among women and men. In a population-based case control study conducted in Germany, 540 cases with a first diagnosis of primary colorectal cancer and 614 controls matched for age, sex, and county of residence were recruited. A detailed lifetime history of endoscopic examinations of the large bowel was obtained by standardized personal interviews, validated by medical records, and compared between cases and controls, paying particular attention to location of colorectal cancer and sex differences. Overall, 39%, 77%, and 64% of proximal, distal, and total colorectal cancer cases were estimated to be preventable by colonoscopy. The estimated proportion of total colorectal cancer cases preventable by sigmoidoscopy was 45% among both women and men, assuming that sigmoidoscopy reaches the junction of the descending and sigmoid colon only and findings of distal polyps are not followed by colonoscopy. Assuming that sigmoidoscopy reaches the splenic flexure and colonoscopy is done after detection of distal polyps, estimated proportions of total colorectal cancer preventable by sigmoidoscopy increase to 50% and 55% (73% and 91% of total colorectal cancer preventable by primary colonoscopy) among women and men, respectively. We conclude that colonoscopy provides strong protection against colorectal cancer among both women and men. The proportion of this protection achieved by sigmoidoscopy with follow-up colonoscopy in case of distal polyps may be larger than anticipated. Among men, this regimen may be almost as effective as colonoscopy, at least at previous performance levels of colonoscopy. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(3):494–9)
Interactions between Insulin, Body Fat, and Insulin-Like Growth Factor Axis Proteins
Authors: Ahmed Rehana L. , Thomas William , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: March 2007

Background: The etiology of hormonally related cancers, such as breast and colon, has been linked to hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance, the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis, and obesity.

Methods: Data from 57 women (ages 30-50 years) were used to observationally examine cross-sectional and longitudinal relations between body fat (from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), insulin, IGF-I, and IGF-binding proteins (IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, and IGFBP-3).

Results: At baseline, participants who had greater than median body fat and insulin levels, >39% and >4.5 microunits/mL, respectively, had 2.3- to 2.6-fold lower IGFBP-1 (P < 0.004) and 1.9- to 2.0-fold lower IGFBP-2 (P < 0.004) compared with other participants; IGF-I and IGFBP-3 levels did not differ by body fat or insulin levels. Over 39 weeks, a 1 microunit/mL reduction in fasting insulin was associated with a 17% increase in IGFBP-1 (P = 0.02) and a 24% increase in IGFBP-2 (P = 0.02) compared with participants who did not reduce insulin; 2.0% loss of body fat over time did not alter IGFBP-1 or IGFBP-2 levels after adjustment for insulin. IGF-I and IGFBP-3 did not change in participants who lost body fat percentage or insulin over time.

Conclusions: These observational associations are consistent with the hypothesis that elevated insulin and body fat are associated with decreased IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-2 levels cross-sectionally; they further imply that IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-2 levels may be altered through change in insulin over time. By contrast, no cross-sectional or longitudinal associations were noted between IGF-I and IGFBP-3 with insulin or body fat. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(3):593–7)
Multiple Cancer Prevalence: A Growing Challenge in Long-term Survivorship
Authors: Mariotto Angela B. , Rowland Julia H. , Ries Lynn A.G. , Scoppa Steve , Feuer Eric J.
Published: March 2007

Objective: The present study was designed to estimate the number of and describe the pattern of disease among cancer survivors living with a history of multiple malignant tumors in the United States.

Methods: Incidence and follow-up data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program (1975-2001) were used to calculate the number of survivors with more than one malignant primary at January 1, 2002. U.S. prevalence counts were calculated by multiplying the age, sex, and race-specific prevalence proportions from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program by the corresponding U.S. populations.

Results: We estimate that 756,467 people in the United States have been affected by cancer more than once between 1975 and 2001, representing almost 8% of the current cancer survivor population. Women whose first primary in that period was breast cancer represent 25% of survivors with multiple cancers, followed by men and women (15%) whose first primary was colorectal cancer and men (13%) whose first primary was prostate cancer.

Discussion: The findings in this report have important implications for public health practice. With individuals diagnosed with cancer living longer and the aging of the U.S. population, the number who will develop multiple malignancies is expected to increase. As a consequence, there is a growing need to promote effective cancer screening along with healthy life-styles among these at-risk populations if we are to ensure optimal physical and psychosocial well-being of these long-term cancer survivors and their families. Efforts to design and evaluate effective, efficient, and equitable approaches to surveillance for second malignancies will be critical in reducing the national burden of cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(3):566–71)