bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting for Costs, QALYs, and Capacity Constraints
Authors: Crane Glenis J. , Kymes Steven M. , Hiller Janet E. , Casson Robert , Martin Adam , Karnon Jonathan D.
Published: March 2013

Background. Decision-analytic models are routinely used as a framework for cost-effectiveness analyses of health care services and technologies; however, these models mostly ignore resource constraints. In this study, we use a discrete-event simulation model to inform a cost-effectiveness analysis of alternative options for the organization and delivery of clinical services in the ophthalmology department of a public hospital. The model is novel, given that it represents both disease outcomes and resource constraints in a routine clinical setting. Methods. A 5-year discrete-event simulation model representing glaucoma patient services at the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) was implemented and calibrated to patient-level data. The data were sourced from routinely collected waiting and appointment lists, patient record data, and the published literature. Patient-level costs and quality-adjusted life years were estimated for a range of alternative scenarios, including combinations of alternate follow-up times, booking cycles, and treatment pathways. Results. The model shows that a) extending booking cycle length from 4 to 6 months, b) extending follow-up visit times by 2 to 3 months, and c) using laser in preference to medication are more cost-effective than current practice at the RAH eye clinic. Conclusions. The current simulation model provides a useful tool for informing improvements in the organization and delivery of glaucoma services at a local level (e.g., within a hospital), on the basis of expected effects on costs and health outcomes while accounting for current capacity constraints. Our model may be adapted to represent glaucoma services at other hospitals, whereas the general modeling approach could be applied to many other clinical service areas.
The Translation Zone: Between Actor-Network Theory and International Relations
Authors: Barry Andrew
Published: March 2013

This article examines the problem of how to translate actor-network theory into the field of international relations, and develops three arguments. Firstly, the article draws on Emily Apter’s notion of the ‘translation zone’ both to rethink the concept of translation in actor-network theory and to highlight the relation between translation and politics. Secondly, the article interrogates the relation between actor-network theory and empirical research, emphasising the ways in which empirical case studies can have theoretically generative implications. Indeed, actor-network theory should not be understood as a body of theory that can be simply applied to a range of empirical examples. Finally, the article examines a number of problems that international relations poses for actor-network theory. I argue that actor-network theory needs to be adjusted and reconfigured in response to the challenge of international relations.
Dating Violence Among Gay Men in China
Authors: Yu Yong , Xiao Shuiyuan , Liu Kirin Qilin
Published: March 2013

This is the first study on the prevalence of dating violence and threats of being forced to “come out of the closet” among Chinese gay men. Data on social demographic information and the experience of dating violence, including types of abuse, threats of “outing,” and the gender of abusers were collected from 418 gay men and 330 heterosexual men by self-administered questionnaires. Mann–Whitney U test, χ2 test, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to test group differences. Up to 32.8% of the gay men had experienced one abuse or more. Among those experiencing abuse, 83.9% of the gay men never told anyone about their abuse. The experience of any form of abuse by gay men was 5.07 times higher than the rate of abuse among heterosexual men controlling for age in logistic regression models. In addition, 12.4% of the gay men have experienced the threat of being outed. Overall, dating violence is more prevalent in gay men than in heterosexuals. Efforts to prevent dating violence, especially among gay men, should be made in China.
Cells in Human Milk
Authors: Hassiotou Foteini , Geddes Donna T. , Hartmann Peter E.
Published: March 2013

Reflecting millions of years of adaptation and optimization, milk is unique to the species that produces it and for the young of which it is intended, with large variations in both lactation strategies and milk composition existing among different mammalian species. Despite this, milk has the consistent function of providing nourishment, protection, and developmental programming to the young, with short- and long-term effects. Among its components that confer these functions, breast milk contains maternal cells, from leukocytes to epithelial cells of various developmental stages that include stem cells, progenitor cells, lactocytes, and myoepithelial cells. Although in the first 150 years since their discovery, breast milk cells were mostly studied for their morphological traits, technological advances in the last decade have allowed characterization of breast milk cell types at the protein and messenger RNA levels. This is now paving the way for investigation of the functions of these cells in the breastfed infant and the use of breast milk as a tool to understand the normal biology of the breast and its pathologies. This review summarizes the current knowledge of breast milk cellular heterogeneity and discusses future prospects and potential applications.
Stressful Experiences of Masculinity Among U.S.-Born and Immigrant Asian American Men
Authors: Lu Alexander , Wong Y. Joel
Published: March 2013

Explaining how stereotypes and norms influence role-identities during reflected appraisal processes, we develop a theory about diverse groups of minority men—the “minority masculinity stress theory”—and apply it to Asian American men. We conceptually integrate hegemonic masculinity, stereotypes, and mental health to examine how Asian American men experience masculinity and how their experiences are uniquely stressful. We analyze elicited text from an open-ended questionnaire to explain two experiences of masculinity-related stress: trying to live up to the masculine ideal and enacting work-related role-identities. Regarding the former, we discuss four illustrations—toughness, body image, restrictive emotionality, and heterosexuality—and two involving the latter—achiever and provider. We found that Asian American men receive stereotypical reflected appraisals that contradict potentially positive self-concepts and emphasize achievement beyond typical standards of hegemonic masculinity. Moreover, Asian American men’s role-identities contradict hegemonic masculinity, resulting in reflected appraisals that predispose them toward stress.
Health-care professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours relating to patient capacity to consent to treatment
Authors: Lamont Scott , Jeon Yun-Hee , Chiarella Mary
Published: March 2013

This integrative review aims to provide a synthesis of research findings of health-care professionals’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviours relating to patient capacity to consent to or refuse treatment within the general hospital setting. Search strategies included relevant health databases, hand searching of key journals, ‘snowballing’ and expert recommendations. The review identified various knowledge gaps and attitudinal dispositions of health-care professionals, which influence their behaviours and decision-making in relation to capacity to consent processes. The findings suggest that there is tension between legal, ethical and professional standards relating to the assessment of capacity and consent within health care. Legislation and policy guidance concerning capacity assessment processes are lacking, and this may contribute to inconsistencies in practice.
Sensor deployment over damage-containing plates: A topology optimization approach
Authors: Mariani Stefano , Bruggi Matteo , Caimmi Francesco , Bendiscioli Paolo , De Fazio Marco
Published: March 2013

Health monitoring systems for composite laminates should detect in real-time if damage, typically consisting of delamination (i.e. debonding between adjacent laminae), is incepted or growing under the external actions. To avoid detrimental effects on the overall structural strength induced by embedded sensors, we recently proposed a surface-mounted monitoring scheme adopting microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. We already investigated the capability of this methodology to detect the inception/growth of delamination in a standard test geometry; in this article, we instead focus on the optimization of sensor deployment over flexible plates, so as to maximize the sensitivity of the monitoring system to damage/delamination. This is achieved through a topology optimization approach. For a square thin plate, either supported or clamped along its boundary, we present optimal distributions of MEMS sensors to detect a damage of known or unknown position. We show that, no matter what the location, size, and shape of the damaged area are, a trivial solution consisting of an array of evenly spaced sensors does not represent the optimal one to monitor the structural health.
Types of interventions used to improve hand hygiene compliance and prevent healthcare associated infection
Authors: Gould Dinah , Drey Nicholas
Published: March 2013

Hand hygiene is regarded as the most effective means of preventing healthcare associated infection. However, systematic reviews provide limited evidence of effectiveness, a finding that is attributed to the poor quality of research designs, dubious outcome measures and flawed approaches to audit. The ability of interventions to improve hand hygiene compliance has not previously been questioned. This review categorises the types of interventions used to promote hand hygiene and discusses their plausibility, taking selected examples from previous systematic searches. Opinion leaders have emphasised the need for interventions to be underpinned by theory. This is an ambitious endeavour for infection control personnel based in National Health Service trusts. However, it is possible to offer pragmatic suggestions to promote compliance. Initiatives are most likely to be successful if needs analysis is undertaken at the outset to address local barriers and identify enablers to compliance, and if interventions are clearly justified by existing evidence, customised according to occupational group, consider health workers’ needs and preferences for training and updating, and avoid punishment.
Incidence, Nature, and Pattern of Injuries to Referees in a Premier Football (Soccer) League
Authors: Kordi Ramin , Chitsaz Alireza , Rostami Mohsen , Mostafavi Reza , Ghadimi Mahmoodreza
Published: March 2013

Background:

Despite the crucial role of referees in a soccer match, few researchers have targeted the injury profile of referees in their studies. Understanding the incidence, nature, and pattern of injuries could provide important information for educational and preventative efforts at the international level.

Hypothesis:

The incidence rate and patterns of acute injuries to official referees of the Iranian Premier Football League during the 2009-2010 season are similar to those reported among referees in short-term international competitions such as FIFA World Cup.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Methods:

Demographic data for 74 referees, including 30 main referees and 44 assistant referees, were collected at the beginning of the season. To record injuries and refereeing time, weekly contact was made by a physician.

Results:

In total, 102 injuries were reported by referees during the football season. The incidence rates of injuries among referees during training and matches were 4.6 and 19.6 injuries per 1000 hours, respectively. Muscular and tendon injuries were found to be the most common type of injury, and the most common site of injury was the lower leg followed by the hip and groin.

Conclusion:

The results of this study are consistent with similar prospective studies evaluating injuries to referees over the course of a short-term tournament.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings provide a base for suggesting possible preventive recommendations in future studies.
Characterization of cross protection of Swine-Origin Influenza Virus (S-OIV) H1N1 and reassortant H5N1 influenza vaccine in BALB/c mice given a single-dose vaccination
Authors: Lin Hui-Tsu , Chuang Chuan-Chang , Wu Hsieh-Ling , Chu Der-Ming , Wang Yeau-Ching
Published: March 2013

Background

Influenza virus has antigen drift and antigen shift effect, vaccination with some influenza vaccine might not induce sufficient immunity for host to the threat of other influenza virus strains. S-OIV H1N1 and H5N1 influenza vaccines in single-dose immunization were evaluated in mice for cross protection to the challenge of A/California/7/2009 H1N1 or NIBRG-14 H5N1 virus.

Results

Both H1N1 and H5N1 induced significant homologous IgG, HAI, and microneutralization antibody responses in the mice, while only vaccines plus adjuvant produced significant heterogeneous IgG and HAI antibody responses. Both alum and MPLA adjuvants significantly reduced the S-OIV H1N1 vaccine dose required to elicit protective HAI antibody titers from 0.05 μg to 0.001 μg. Vaccines alone did not protect mice from challenge with heterogeneous influenza virus, while H5N1 vaccine plus alum and MPLA adjuvants did. Mouse body weight loss was also less significant in the presence of adjuvant than in the vaccine without adjuvant. Furthermore, both H1N1 and H5N1 lung viral titers of immunized mice were significantly reduced post challenge with homologous viruses.

Conclusion

Only in the presence of MPLA adjuvant could the H5N1 vaccine significantly reduce mouse lung viral titers post H1N1 virus challenge, and not vice versa. MPLA adjuvant induced cross protection with a single dose vaccination to the challenge of heterogeneous influenza virus in mice. Lung viral titer seemed to be a better indicator compared to IgG, neutralization antibody, and HAI titer to predict survival of mice infected with influenza virus.
Transcriptome-based discovery of pathways and genes related to resistance against Fusariumhead blight in wheat landrace Wangshuibai
Authors: Xiao Jin , Jin Xiahong , Jia Xinping , Wang Haiyan , Cao Aizhong , Zhao Weiping , Pei Haiyan , Xue Zhaokun , He Liqiang , Chen Qiguang , Wang Xiue
Published: March 2013

Background

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused mainly by Fusarium graminearum (Fg) Schwabe (teleomorph: Gibberellazeae Schwble), brings serious damage to wheat production. Chinese wheat landrace Wangshuibai is one of the most important resistance sources in the world. The knowledge of mechanism underlying its resistance to FHB is still limited.

Results

To get an overview of transcriptome characteristics of Wangshuibai during infection by Fg, a high-throughput RNA sequencing based on next generation sequencing (NGS) technology (Illumina) were performed. Totally, 165,499 unigenes were generated and assigned to known protein databases including NCBI non-redundant protein database (nr) (82,721, 50.0%), Gene Ontology (GO) (38,184, 23.1%), Swiss-Prot (50,702, 30.6%), Clusters of orthologous groups (COG) (51,566, 31.2%) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) (30,657, 18.5%), as determined by Blastx search. With another NGS based platform, a digital gene expression (DGE) system, gene expression in Wangshuibai and its FHB susceptible mutant NAUH117 was profiled and compared at two infection stages by inoculation of Fg at 24 and 48 hour, with the aim of identifying genes involved in FHB resistance.

Conclusion

Pathogen-related proteins such as PR5, PR14 and ABC transporter and JA signaling pathway were crucial for FHB resistance, especially that mediated by Fhb1. ET pathway and ROS/NO pathway were not activated in Wangshuibai and may be not pivotal in defense to FHB. Consistent with the fact that in NAUH117 there presented a chromosome fragment deletion, which led to its increased FHB susceptibility, in Wangshuibai, twenty out of eighty-nine genes showed changed expression patterns upon the infection of Fg. The up-regulation of eight of them was confirmed by qRT-PCR, revealing they may be candidate genes for Fhb1 and need further functional analysis to confirm their roles in FHB resistance.
Wdr66 is a novel marker for risk stratification and involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Qing , Ma Chenming , Kemmner Wolfgang
Published: March 2013

Background

We attempted to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by gene expression profiling of frozen esophageal squamous carcinoma specimens and examined the functional relevance of a newly discovered marker gene, WDR66.

Methods

Laser capture microdissection technique was applied to collect the cells from well-defined tumor areas in collaboration with an experienced pathologist. Whole human gene expression profiling of frozen esophageal squamous carcinoma specimens (n = 10) and normal esophageal squamous tissue (n = 18) was performed using microarray technology. A gene encoding WDR66, WD repeat-containing protein 66 was significantly highly expressed in esophageal squamous carcinoma specimens. Microarray results were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in a second and independent cohort (n = 71) consisting of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (n = 25), normal esophagus (n = 11), esophageal adenocarcinoma (n = 13), gastric adenocarcinoma (n = 15) and colorectal cancers (n = 7). In order to understand WDR66’s functional relevance siRNA-mediated knockdown was performed in a human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line, KYSE520 and the effects of this treatment were then checked by another microarray analysis.

Results

High WDR66 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (P = 0.031) of patients suffering from esophageal squamous carcinomas. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that WDR66 expression remained an independent prognostic factor (P = 0.042). WDR66 knockdown by RNA interference resulted particularly in changes of the expression of membrane components. Expression of vimentin was down regulated in WDR66 knockdown cells while that of the tight junction protein occludin was markedly up regulated. Furthermore, siRNA-mediated knockdown of WDR66 resulted in suppression of cell growth and reduced cell motility.

Conclusions

WDR66 might be a useful biomarker for risk stratification of esophageal squamous carcinomas. WDR66 expression is likely to play an important role in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma growth and invasion as a positive modulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, due to its high expression and possible functional relevance, WDR66 might be a novel drug target for the treatment of squamous carcinoma.
Type 2 diabetes prevalence varies by socio-economic status within and between migrant groups: analysis and implications for Australia
Authors: Abouzeid Marian , Philpot Benjamin , Janus Edward D , Coates Michael J , Dunbar James A
Published: March 2013

Background

Ethnic diversity is increasing through migration in many developed countries. Evidence indicates that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) prevalence varies by ethnicity and socio-economic status (SES), and that in many settings, migrants experience a disproportionate burden of disease compared with locally-born groups. Given Australia’s multicultural demography, we sought to identify groups at high risk of T2DM in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Using population data from the Australian National Census and diabetes data from the National Diabetes Services Scheme, prevalence of T2DM among immigrant groups in Victoria in January 2010 was investigated, and prevalence odds versus Australian-born residents estimated. Distribution of T2DM by SES was also examined.

Results

Prevalence of diagnosed T2DM in Victoria was 4.1% (n = 98671) in men and 3.5% (n = 87608) in women. Of those with T2DM, over 1 in 5 born in Oceania and in Southern and Central Asia were aged under 50 years. For both men and women, odds of T2DM were higher for all migrant groups than the Australian-born reference population, including, after adjusting for age and SES, 6.3 and 7.2 times higher for men and women born in the Pacific Islands, respectively, and 5.2 and 5.0 times higher for men and women born in Southern and Central Asia, respectively. Effects of SES varied by region of birth.

Conclusions

Large socio-cultural differences exist in the distribution of T2DM. Across all socio-economic strata, all migrant groups have higher prevalence of T2DM than the Australian-born population. With increasing migration, this health gap potentially has implications for health service planning and delivery, policy and preventive efforts in Australia.
Alcohol, betel-nut and cigarette consumption are negatively associated with health promoting behaviors in Taiwan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Guo Su-Er , Huang Tung-Jung , Huang Jui-Chu , Lin Ming-Shyan , Hong Rei-Mei , Chang Chia-Hao , Chen Mei-Yen
Published: March 2013

Background

Oral cancer is the 2nd most common cause of death due to cancer in the south-western coastal region of Taiwan; the standardized mortality of oral cancer is higher than elsewhere in the world. According to the evidence, alcohol, betel-nut and cigarette (ABC) consumption cause oral, nasopharyngeal and related cancers. This study describes the relationships between ABC consumers and health promoting behaviors among community adults living around an area with a high prevalence of oral cancer.

Methods

A population-based, cross-sectional study design was conducted in oral cancer epidemic areas in south-western coastal Taiwan in 2010, 6,203 community residents over 20 years of age participated. Demographic data, ABC habits, and health-promoting behaviors were explored. A logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with ABC consumers.

Results

A high percentage of participants consumed alcohol, betel-nut and cigarettes. Betel-nut and cigarette consumers took low levels of exercise, adopted a poor diet, and had poor oral hygiene. After adjusting for potential confounders, the logistic regression model indicated that middle aged males of poor education and low economic status, who did not exercise regularly and had poor oral hygiene, were more likely to chew betel quid and smoke cigarettes.

Conclusions

It has identified that BC consumers are negatively associated with health promoting behaviors. Further research is required to understand the reasons why the subjects consume ABC, and explore ways to prevent initiation and enhance cessation of ABC habits in this population.
PTEN suppresses the oncogenic function of AIB1 through decreasing its protein stability via mechanism involving Fbw7 alpha
Authors: Yang Chunhua , Li Shujing , Wang Miao , Chang Alan K , Liu Ying , Zhao Feng , Xiao Liyun , Han Lin , Wang Dao , Li Shen , Wu Huijian
Published: March 2013

Background

Phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) is a phosphatase having both protein and lipid phosphatase activities, and is known to antagonize the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway, resulting in tumor suppression. PTEN is also known to play a role in the regulation of numerous transcription factors. Amplified in breast cancer 1 (AIB1) is a transcriptional coactivator that mediates the transcriptional activities of nuclear receptors and other transcription factors. The present study investigated how PTEN may regulate AIB1, which is amplified and/or overexpressed in many human carcinomas, including breast cancers.

Results

PTEN interacted with AIB1 via its phophatase domain and regulated the transcriptional activity of AIB1 by enhancing the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of AIB1. This process did not appear to require the phosphatase activity of PTEN, but instead, involved the interaction between PTEN and F-box and WD repeat domain-containing 7 alpha (Fbw7α), the E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in the ubiquitination of AIB1. PTEN interacted with Fbw7α via its C2 domain, thereby acting as a bridge between AIB1 and Fbw7α, and this led to enhanced degradation of AIB1, which eventually accounted for its decreased transcriptional activity. At the cell level, knockdown of PTEN in MCF-7 cells promoted cell proliferation. However when AIB1 was also knocked down, knockdown of PTEN had no effect on cell proliferation.

Conclusions

PTEN might act as a negative regulator of AIB1 whereby the association of PTEN with both AIB1 and Fbw7α could lead to the downregulation of AIB1 transcriptional activity, with the consequence of regulating the oncogenic function of AIB1.
Concomitant pancreatic endocrine neoplasm and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm: a case report and literature review
Authors: Kadota Yoshie , Shinoda Masahiro , Tanabe Minoru , Tsujikawa Hanako , Ueno Akihisa , Masugi Yohei , Oshima Go , Nishiyama Ryo , Tanaka Masayuki , Mihara Kisho , Abe Yuta , Yagi Hiroshi , Kitago Minoru , Itano Osamu , Kawachi Shigeyuki , Aiura Koichi , Tanimoto Akihiro , Sakamaoto Michiie , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: March 2013

We report a case of concomitant pancreatic endocrine neoplasm (PEN) and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). A 74-year-old man had been followed-up for mixed-type IPMN for 10 years. Recent magnetic resonance images revealed an increase in size of the branch duct IPMN in the pancreas head, while the dilation of the main pancreatic duct showed minimal change. Although contrast-enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging did not reveal any nodules in the branch duct IPMN, endoscopic ultrasound indicated a suspected nodule in the IPMN. A malignancy in the branch duct IPMN was suspected and we performed pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy with lymphadenectomy. The resected specimen contained a cystic lesion, 10 x 10 mm in diameter, in the head of the pancreas. Histological examination revealed that the dilated main pancreatic duct and the branch ducts were composed of intraductal papillary mucinous adenoma with mild atypia. No evidence of carcinoma was detected in the specimen. Incidentally, a 3-mm nodule consisting of small neuroendocrine cells was found in the main pancreatic duct. The cells demonstrated positive staining for chromogranin A, synaptophysin, and glucagon but negative staining for insulin and somatostatin. Therefore, the 3-mm nodule was diagnosed as a PEN. Since the mitotic count per 10 high-power fields was less than 2 and the Ki-67 index was less than 2%, the PEN was pathologically classified as low-grade (G1) according to the 2010 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Herein, we review the case and relevant studies in the literature and discuss issues related to the synchronous occurrence of the relatively rare tumors, PEN and IPMN.
Charge density and particle size effects on oligonucleotide and plasmid DNA binding to nanosized hydrotalcite
Authors: Sanderson Brian A , Sowersby Drew S , Crosby Sergio , Goss Marcus , Lewis L Kevin , Beall Gary W
Published: March 2013

Hydrotalcite (HT) and other layered double metal hydroxides are of great interest as gene delivery and timed release drug delivery systems and as enteric vehicles for biologically active molecules that are sensitive to gastric fluids. HT is a naturally occurring double metal hydroxide that can be synthesized as a nanomaterial consisting of a brucite structure with isomorphous substitution of aluminum ions. These positively charged nanoparticles exhibit plate-like morphology with very high aspect ratios. Biomolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins form strong associations with HT because they can associate with the positively charged layers. The binding of nucleic acids with HT and other nanomaterials is currently being investigated for potential use in gene therapy; however, the binding of specific nucleic acid forms, such as single- and double-stranded DNA, has been little explored. In addition, the effects of charge density and particle size on DNA adsorption has not been studied. In this paper, the binding of different forms of DNA to a series of HTs prepared at different temperatures and with different anion exchange capacities has been investigated. Experiments demonstrated that HTs synthesized at higher temperatures associate with both single- and double-stranded oligomers and circular plasmid DNA more tightly than HTs synthesized at room temperature, likely due to the hydrothermal conditions promoting larger particle sizes. HT with an anion exchange capacity of 300 meq/100 g demonstrated the highest binding of DNA, likely due to the closer match of charge densities between the HT and DNA. The details of the interaction of various forms of DNA with HT as a function of charge density, particle size, and concentration are discussed.
Dark soliton and periodic wave solutions of nonlinear evolution equations
Authors: Güner Özkan , Bekir Ahmet , Cevikel Adem Cengiz
Published: March 2013

This paper studies the Kudryashov-Sinelshchikov and Jimbo-Miwa equations. Subsequently, we formally derive the dark (topological) soliton solutions for these equations. By using the sine-cosine method, some additional periodic solutions are derived. The physical parameters in the soliton solutions of the ansatz method, amplitude, inverse width and velocity, are obtained as functions of the dependent model coefficients.

PACS Codes:02.30.Jr, 02.70.Wz, 05.45.Yv, 94.05.Fg.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy using gated radiotherapy with real-time tumor-tracking for stage I non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Inoue Tetsuya , Katoh Norio , Onimaru Rikiya , Shimizu Shinichi , Tsuchiya Kazuhiko , Suzuki Ryusuke , Sakakibara-Konishi Jun , Shinagawa Naofumi , Oizumi Satoshi , Shirato Hiroki
Published: March 2013

Background

To clarify the clinical outcomes of two dose schedule of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using a real-time tumor-tracking radiation therapy (RTRT) system in single institution.

Methods

Using a superposition algorithm, we administered 48 Gy in 4 fractions at the isocenter in 2005–2006 and 40 Gy in 4 fractions to the 95% volume of PTV in 2007–2010 with a treatment period of 4 to 7 days. Target volume margins were fixed irrespective of the tumor amplitude.

Results

In total, 109 patients (79 T1N0M0 and 30 T2N0M0). With a median follow-up period of 25 months (range, 4 to 72 months), the 5-year local control rate (LC) was 78% and the 5-year overall survival rate (OS) was 64%. Grade 2, 3, 4, and 5 radiation pneumonitis (RP) was experienced by 15 (13.8%), 3 (2.8%), 0, and 0 patients, respectively. The mean lung dose (MLD) and the volume of lung receiving 20 Gy (V20) were significantly higher in patients with RP Grade 2/3 than in those with RP Grade 0/1 (MLD p = 0.002, V20 p = 0.003). There was no correlation between larger maximum amplitude of marker movement and larger PTV (r = 0.137), MLD (r = 0.046), or V20 (r = 0.158).

Conclusions

SBRT using the RTRT system achieved LC and OS comparable to other SBRT studies with very low incidence of RP, which was consistent with the small MLD and V20 irrespective of tumor amplitude. For stage I NSCLC, SBRT using RTRT was suggested to be reliable and effective, especially for patients with large amplitude of tumor movement.
Using Bayesian networks to discover relations between genes, environment, and disease
Authors: Su Chengwei , Andrew Angeline , Karagas Margaret R , Borsuk Mark E
Published: March 2013

We review the applicability of Bayesian networks (BNs) for discovering relations between genes, environment, and disease. By translating probabilistic dependencies among variables into graphical models and vice versa, BNs provide a comprehensible and modular framework for representing complex systems. We first describe the Bayesian network approach and its applicability to understanding the genetic and environmental basis of disease. We then describe a variety of algorithms for learning the structure of a network from observational data. Because of their relevance to real-world applications, the topics of missing data and causal interpretation are emphasized. The BN approach is then exemplified through application to data from a population-based study of bladder cancer in New Hampshire, USA. For didactical purposes, we intentionally keep this example simple. When applied to complete data records, we find only minor differences in the performance and results of different algorithms. Subsequent incorporation of partial records through application of the EM algorithm gives us greater power to detect relations. Allowing for network structures that depart from a strict causal interpretation also enhances our ability to discover complex associations including gene-gene (epistasis) and gene-environment interactions. While BNs are already powerful tools for the genetic dissection of disease and generation of prognostic models, there remain some conceptual and computational challenges. These include the proper handling of continuous variables and unmeasured factors, the explicit incorporation of prior knowledge, and the evaluation and communication of the robustness of substantive conclusions to alternative assumptions and data manifestations.
Efficient production of chimeric mice from embryonic stem cells injected into 4- to 8-cell and blastocyst embryos
Authors: Hu Minhua , Wei Hengxi , Zhang Jingfeng , Bai Yinshan , Gao Fenglei , Li Li , Zhang Shouquan
Published: March 2013

Background

Production of chimeric mice is a useful tool for the elucidation of gene function. After successful isolation of embryonic stem (ES) cell lines, there are many methods for producing chimeras, including co-culture with the embryos, microinjection of the ES cells into pre-implantation embryos, and use of tetraploid embryos to generate the full ES-derived transgenic mice. Here, we aimed to generate the transgenic ES cell line, compare the production efficiency of chimeric mice and its proportion to yield the male chimeric mice by microinjected ES cells into 4- to 8-cell and blastocysts embryos with the application of Piezo-Micromanipulator (PMM), and trace the fate of the injected ES cells.

Results

We successfully generated a transgenic ES cell line and proved that this cell line still maintained pluripotency. Although we achieved a satisfactory chimeric mice rate, there was no significant difference in the production of chimeric mice using the two different methods, but the proportion of the male chimeric mice in the 4- to 8-cell group was higher than in the blastocyst group. We also found that there was no tendency for ES cells to aggregate into the inner cell mass using in vitro culture of the chimeric embryos, indicating that they aggregated randomly.

Conclusions

These results showed that the PMM method is a convenient way to generate chimeric mice and microinjection of ES cells into 4- to 8-cell embryos can increase the chance of yielding male chimeras compared to the blastocyst injection. These results provide useful data in transgenic research mediated by ES cells.
Reversed argininosuccinate lyase activity in fumarate hydratase-deficient cancer cells
Authors: Zheng Liang , MacKenzie Elaine D , Karim Saadia A , Hedley Ann , Blyth Karen , Kalna Gabriela , Watson David G , Szlosarek Peter , Frezza Christian , Gottlieb Eyal
Published: March 2013

Background

Loss of function of fumarate hydratase (FH), the mitochondrial tumor suppressor and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzyme, is associated with a highly malignant form of papillary and collecting duct renal cell cancer. The accumulation of fumarate in these cells has been linked to the tumorigenic process. However, little is known about the overall effects of the loss of FH on cellular metabolism.

Methods

We performed comprehensive metabolomic analyses of urine from Fh1- deficient mice and stable isotopologue tracing from human and mouse FH-deficient cell lines to investigate the biochemical signature of the loss of FH.

Results

The metabolomics analysis revealed that the urea cycle metabolite argininosuccinate is a common metabolic biomarker of FH deficiency. Argininosuccinate was found to be produced from arginine and fumarate by the reverse activity of the urea cycle enzyme argininosuccinate lyase (ASL), making these cells auxotrophic for arginine. Depleting arginine from the growth media by the addition of pegylated arginine deiminase (ADI-PEG 20) decreased the production of argininosuccinate in FH-deficient cells and reduced cell survival and proliferation.

Conclusions

These results unravel a previously unidentified correlation between fumarate accumulation and the urea cycle enzyme ASL in FH-deficient cells. The finding that FH-deficient cells become auxotrophic for arginine opens a new therapeutic perspective for the cure of hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC).
Experimental evaluation of engine oil properties containing copper oxide nanoparticles as a nanoadditive
Authors: Ettefaghi Ehsan-o-llah , Ahmadi Hojjat , Rashidi Alimorad , Mohtasebi Seyed Saeid , Alaei Mahshad
Published: March 2013

Background

The properties of lubricants are mainly the result of adding a material for improving or producing the required properties. Today, different materials with various nanostructures are used as new additives which, because of their unique properties, are used for improving the lubricant's properties. The purpose of the present research is to add copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles to engine oil and evaluate the produced changes in some of its properties. Also, viscosity, pour point, and flash point of nanolubricants, which are made at different concentrations (0.1, 0.2, and 0.5 wt.%), and also their thermal conductivity coefficient as four quality parameters which are effective in the functionality of engine oil are evaluated.

Results

Upon the obtained results, thermal conductivity coefficient and flash point of nanolubricants with 0.1 wt.% concentration, respectively, had 3% and 7.9% improvement with respect to the base oil. Also, the oil's viscosity, as a very important factor in lubricating issue, at a lower concentration with respect to the engine oil without CuO had no appreciable change.

Conclusion

Among the different methods which have been used for dispersing nanoparticles inside the base oil, using planetary ball mill was determined as the most important method for stabilization of nanoparticles inside SAE 20W50 engine oil. Also, the physical properties of nanolubricants were measured based on the American Society for Testing and Materials standard methods.
Antiplatelet therapy and the outcome of subjects with intracranial injury: the Italian SIMEU study
Authors: Fabbri Andrea , Servadei Franco , Marchesini Giulio , Bronzoni Carolina , Montesi Danilo , Arietta Luca ,   of the Società Italiana di Medicina d'Emergenza Urgenza Study Group
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Pre-injury antithrombotic therapy might influence the outcome of subjects withhead injuries and positive computed tomography (CT) scans. We aimed to determinethe potential risk of pre-injury antiplatelet drug use on short- and long-termoutcome of head injured subjects admitted to emergency departments (EDs) in Italyfor extended observation.

Methods

A total of 1,558 adult subjects with mild, moderate and severe head injuryadmitted to Italian EDs were studied. In multivariable logistic regressionanalyses, the short-term outcome was assessed by an evaluation of head CT scan at6 to 24 hours after trauma and the long-term outcome by the Glasgow outcome scale(GOS) at six months.

Results

Head CT scan comparisons showed that 201 subjects (12.9%) worsened. The risk ofworsening was increased two fold by the use of antiplatelet drugs (106, 19.7%treated versus 95, 9.3% untreated; relative risk (RR) 2.09, 95% CI 1.63 to 2.71).The risk was particularly high in subjects on clopidogrel (RR 5.76, 95% CI 3.88 to8.54), independent of the association with aspirin. By logistic regression, 5 of14 items were independently associated with worsening (Glasgow coma scale (GCS),Marshall category, antiplatelet therapy, intraventricular hemorrhage, number oflesions). After six months, only 4 of 14 items were predictors of unfavorableoutcome (GOS 1 to 3) (GCS score, Marshall category, age in decades, intracerebralhemorrhage/contusion). The risk increased by 50% in the group treated withantiplatelet therapy (RR 1.58, 95% CI 1.28 to 1.95; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Antithrombotic therapy (in particular clopidogrel) is a risk factor for bothshort-term and long-term unfavorable outcome in subjects with head injury,increasing the risk of progression and death, permanent vegetative state andsevere disability.
Encapsulation and 3D culture of human adipose-derived stem cells in an in-situ crosslinked hybrid hydrogel composed of PEG-based hyperbranched copolymer and hyaluronic acid
Authors: Hassan Waqar , Dong Yixiao , Wang Wenxin
Published: March 2013

Introduction

Cell therapy using adipose-derived stem cells has been reported to improve chronic wounds via differentiation and paracrine effects. One such strategy is to deliver stem cells in hydrogels, which are studied increasingly as cell delivery vehicles for therapeutic healing and inducing tissue regeneration. This study aimed to determine the behaviour of encapsulated adipose-derived stem cells and identify the secretion profile of suitable growth factors for wound healing in a newly developed thermoresponsive PEG–hyaluronic acid (HA) hybrid hydrogel to provide a novel living dressing system.

Methods

In this study, human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) were encapsulated in situ in a water-soluble, thermoresponsive hyperbranched PEG-based copolymer (PEGMEMA–MEO2MA–PEGDA) with multiple acrylate functional groups in combination with thiolated HA, which was developed via deactivated enhanced atom transfer radical polymerisation of poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMEMA, Mn = 475), 2-(2-methoxyethoxy) ethyl methacrylate (MEO2MA) and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate PEGDA (Mn = 258). hADSCs embedded in the PEGMEMA–MEO2MA–PEGDA and HA hybrid hydrogel system (P-SH-HA) were monitored and analysed for their cell viability, cell proliferation and secretion of growth factors (vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor beta and placental-derived growth factor) and cytokines (IFNγ, IL-2 and IL-10) under three-dimensional culture conditions via the ATP activity assay, alamarBlue® assay, LIVE/DEAD® assay and multiplex ELISA, respectively.

Results

hADSCs were successfully encapsulated in situ with high cell viability for up to 7 days in hydrogels. Although cellular proliferation was inhibited, cellular secretion of growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor and placental-derived growth factor production increased over 7 days, whereas IL-2 and IFNγ release were unaffected.

Conclusion

This study indicates that hADSCs can be maintained in a P-SH-HA hydrogel, and secrete pro-angiogenic growth factors with low cytotoxicity. With the potential to add more functionality for further structural modifications, this stem cell hydrogel system can be an ideal living dressing system for wound healing applications.
Ssrp1a controls organogenesis by promoting cell cycle progression and RNA synthesis
Authors: Koltowska Katarzyna , Apitz Holger , Stamataki Despina , Hirst Elizabeth M. A. , Verkade Heather , Salecker Iris , Ober Elke A.
Published: March 2013

Tightly controlled DNA replication and RNA transcription are essential for differentiation and tissue growth in multicellular organisms. Histone chaperones, including the FACT (facilitates chromatin transcription) complex, are central for these processes and act by mediating DNA access through nucleosome reorganisation. However, their roles in vertebrate organogenesis are poorly understood. Here, we report the identification of zebrafish mutants for the gene encoding Structure specific recognition protein 1a (Ssrp1a), which, together with Spt16, forms the FACT heterodimer. Focussing on the liver and eye, we show that zygotic Ssrp1a is essential for proliferation and differentiation during organogenesis. Specifically, gene expression indicative of progressive organ differentiation is disrupted and RNA transcription is globally reduced. Ssrp1a-deficient embryos exhibit DNA synthesis defects and prolonged S phase, uncovering a role distinct from that of Spt16, which promotes G1 phase progression. Gene deletion/replacement experiments in Drosophila show that Ssrp1b, Ssrp1a and N-terminal Ssrp1a, equivalent to the yeast homologue Pob3, can substitute Drosophila Ssrp function. These data suggest that (1) Ssrp1b does not compensate for Ssrp1a loss in the zebrafish embryo, probably owing to insufficient expression levels, and (2) despite fundamental structural differences, the mechanisms mediating DNA accessibility by FACT are conserved between yeast and metazoans. We propose that the essential functions of Ssrp1a in DNA replication and gene transcription, together with its dynamic spatiotemporal expression, ensure organ-specific differentiation and proportional growth, which are crucial for the forming embryo.
Zinc-catalyzed Reduction of Aldehydes with a Hydrosilane Leading to Symmetric Ethers and Silyl Ethers
Authors: Sakai Norio , Nonomura Yoshifumi , Ikeda Reiko , Konakahara Takeo
Published: March 2013

The efficient reductive etherification of aromatic or aliphatic aldehydes using a reducing system that combines Zn(OTf)2 with either TMDS or Et3SiH is described. The present reducing system can also be applied to the hydrosilylation of aromatic aldehydes having either a strong electron-withdrawing group or a pyridine ring.
In-one-pot-at-a-time Ligation for High-throughput Construction of a Protein Expression Vector Library
Authors: Nakazawa Hikaru , Todokoro Rui , Ishigaki Yuri , Kumagai Izumi , Umetsu Mitsuo
Published: March 2013

A mixture of protein-encoding gene fragments was ligated into linearized expression vectors in one pot at a time (iPaT) to simultaneously generate each protein expression vector. This high-throughput iPaT ligation method was stable and highly efficient for the simultaneous generation of more than 10 different expression vectors.
Raw Particle Aggregation Control for Fabricating Submicrometer-sized Spherical Particles by Pulsed-laser Melting in Liquid
Authors: Ishikawa Yoshie , Katou Yukiko , Koshizaki Naoto , Feng Qi
Published: March 2013

We have been studying a new method of pulsed-laser melting in liquid, which is a unique and promising technique for the fabrication of submicrometer-sized spherical particles of various materials. However, spherical particles sometimes did not form depending on the raw particles, even when we used the same material. In this study, we clarified experimentally that particle aggregation in a suspension is important for spherical particle formation, and we found that the addition of an electrolyte to induce particle aggregation effectively promotes spherical particle formation.
Preparation and Visible-light Photocatalytic Activity of Microporous Pillared Layered Titanate
Authors: Matsuo Yoshiaki , Maeda Katsuya
Published: March 2013

Microporous pillared layered titanates with large surface areas were prepared through the pyrolysis of silylated layered titanate under various atmospheres. The sample containing some organic residues showed visible-light photocatalytic activity toward methanol decomposition.