bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How I treat HIV-associated multicentric Castleman disease
Authors: Bower Mark
Published: August 2010

HIV-associated plasmablastic multicentric Castleman disease is an increasingly frequent diagnosis. Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus is found in the monotypic polyclonal plasmablasts that characterize this disease. Unlike Kaposi sarcoma, the incidence does not correlate with CD4 cell count or use of highly active antiretroviral therapy. It is a relapsing and remitting illness, and diagnostic criteria are emerging that define disease activity based on the presence of a fever and raised C-reactive protein coupled with a list of clinical features. Treatment protocols increasingly stratify therapy according to performance status and organ involvement. I advocate rituximab monotherapy for good performance status patients without organ involvement and rituximab with chemotherapy for more aggressive disease. The success of antiherpesvirus agents in controlling active disease is limited, but valganciclovir may have a role as maintenance therapy in the future.
Analysis of Thisbe and Pyramus functional domains reveals evidence for cleavage of Drosophila FGFs
Authors: Tulin Sarah , Stathopoulos Angelike
Published: August 2010

Background

As important regulators of developmental and adult processes in metazoans, Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) proteins are potent signaling molecules whose activities must be tightly regulated. FGFs are known to play diverse roles in many processes, including mesoderm induction, branching morphogenesis, organ formation, wound healing and malignant transformation; yet much more remains to be learned about the mechanisms of regulation used to control FGF activity.

Results

In this work, we conducted an analysis of the functional domains of two Drosophila proteins, Thisbe (Ths) and Pyramus (Pyr), which share homology with the FGF8 subfamily of ligands in vertebrates. Ths and Pyr proteins are secreted from Drosophila Schneider cells (S2) as smaller N-terminal fragments presumably as a result of intracellular proteolytic cleavage. Cleaved forms of Ths and Pyr can be detected in embryonic extracts as well. The FGF-domain is contained within the secreted ligand portion, and this domain alone is capable of functioning in the embryo when ectopically expressed. Through targeted ectopic expression experiments in which we assay the ability of full-length, truncated, and chimeric proteins to support cell differentiation, we find evidence that (1) the C-terminal domain of Pyr is retained inside the cell and does not seem to be required for receptor activation and (2) the C-terminal domain of Ths is secreted and, while also not required for receptor activation, this domain does plays a role in limiting the activity of Ths when present.

Conclusions

We propose that differential protein processing may account for the previously observed inequalities in signaling capabilities between Ths and Pyr. While the regulatory mechanisms are likely complex, studies such as ours conducted in a tractable model system may be able to provide insights into how ligand processing regulates growth factor activity.
Involvement of the Reck tumor suppressor protein in maternal and embryonic vascular remodeling in mice
Authors: Chandana Ediriweera PS , Maeda Yasuhiro , Ueda Akihiko , Kiyonari Hiroshi , Oshima Naoko , Yamamoto Mako , Kondo Shunya , Oh Junseo , Takahashi Rei , Yoshida Yoko , Kawashima Satoshi , Alexander David B , Kitayama Hitoshi , Takahashi Chiaki , Tabata Yasuhiko , Matsuzaki Tomoko , Noda Makoto
Published: August 2010

Background

Developmental angiogenesis proceeds through multiple morphogenetic events including sprouting, intussusception, and pruning. Mice lacking the membrane-anchored metalloproteinase regulator Reck diein uteroaround embryonic day 10.5 with halted vascular development; however, the mechanisms by which this phenotype arises remain unclear.

Results

We found that Reck is abundantly expressed in the cells associated with blood vessels undergoing angiogenesis or remodelling in the uteri of pregnant female mice. Some of the Reck-positive vessels show morphological features consistent with non-sprouting angiogenesis. Treatment with a vector expressing a small hairpin RNA against Reck severely disrupts the formation of blood vessels with a compact, round lumen. Similar defects were found in the vasculature ofReck-deficient orReckconditional knockout embryos.

Conclusions

Our findings implicate Reck in vascular remodeling, possibly through non-sprouting angiogenesis, in both maternal and embyornic tissues.
Caspase inhibitors affect the kinetics and dimensions of tracheary elements in xylogenic Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) cell cultures
Authors: Twumasi Peter , Iakimova Elena T , Qian Tian , van Ieperen Wim , Schel Jan HN , Emons Anne MieC , van Kooten Olaf , Woltering Ernst J
Published: August 2010

Background

The xylem vascular system is composed of fused dead, hollow cells called tracheary elements (TEs) that originate through trans-differentiation of root and shoot cambium cells. TEs undergo autolysis as they differentiate and mature. The final stage of the formation of TEs in plants is the death of the involved cells, a process showing some similarities to programmed cell death (PCD) in animal systems. Plant proteases with functional similarity to proteases involved in mammalian apoptotic cell death (caspases) are suggested as an integral part of the core mechanism of most PCD responses in plants, but participation of plant caspase-like proteases in TE PCD has not yet been documented.

Results

Confocal microscopic images revealed the consecutive stages of TE formation in Zinnia cells during trans-differentiation. Application of the caspase inhibitors Z-Asp-CH2-DCB, Ac-YVAD-CMK and Ac-DEVD-CHO affected the kinetics of formation and the dimensions of the TEs resulting in a significant delay of TE formation, production of larger TEs and in elimination of the 'two-wave' pattern of TE production. DNA breakdown and appearance of TUNEL-positive nuclei was observed in xylogenic cultures and this was suppressed in the presence of caspase inhibitors.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge this is the first report showing that caspase inhibitors can modulate the process of trans-differentiation in Zinnia xylogenic cell cultures. As caspase inhibitors are closely associated with cell death inhibition in a variety of plant systems, this suggests that the altered TE formation results from suppression of PCD. The findings presented here are a first step towards the use of appropriate PCD signalling modulators or related molecular genetic strategies to improve the hydraulic properties of xylem vessels in favour of the quality and shelf life of plants or plant parts.
MiR-145, a new regulator of the DNA Fragmentation Factor-45 (DFF45)-mediated apoptotic network
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , Guo Haiyan , Qian Guanxiang , Ge Shengfang , Ji Huifeng , Hu Xiaobo , Chen Wantao
Published: August 2010

Background

MicroRNA-145 (miR-145) is considered to play key roles in many cellular processes, such as proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis, by inhibiting target gene expression. DNA Fragmentation Factor-45 (DFF45) has been found to be the substrate of Caspase-3, and the cleavage of DFF45 by caspase-3 during apoptosis releases DFF40 that degrades chromosomal DNA into nucleosomal fragments. There are currently no in-depth studies on the relationship between miR-145 and the DFF45 gene.

Results

In this study, we identified DFF45 as a novel target of miR-145. We demonstrated that miR-145 targets a putative binding site in the coding sequence (CDS) of DFF45, and its abundance is inversely associated with DFF45 expression in colon cancer cells. Using a luciferase reporter system, we found that miR-145 suppresses the expression of the luciferase reporter gene fused to the putative binding site of DFF45. The level of DFF45 protein, but not DFF45 mRNA, was decreased by miR-145, suggesting a mechanism of translational regulation. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this specific silencing of DFF45 by miR-145 accounts, at least in part, for the staurosporine-induced tumor cell apoptosisin vitro.

Conclusions

Our study reveals a previously unrecognized function of miR-145 in DFF45 processing, which may underlie crucial aspects of cancer biology.
Lotus leaf extract and L-carnitine influence different processes during the adipocyte life cycle
Authors: Siegner Ralf , Heuser Stefan , Holtzmann Ursula , Söhle Jörn , Schepky Andreas , Raschke Thomas , Stäb Franz , Wenck Horst , Winnefeld Marc
Published: August 2010

Background

The cellular and molecular mechanisms of adipose tissue biology have been studied extensively over the last two decades. Adipose tissue growth involves both an increase in fat cell size and the formation of mature adipocytes from precursor cells. To investigate how natural substances influence these two processes, we examined the effects of lotus leaf extract (Nelumbo nucifera-extract solution obtained from Silab, France) and L-carnitine on human preadipocytes and adipocytes.

Methods

For ourin vitrostudies, we used a lotus leaf extract solution alone or in combination with L-carnitine. Utilizing cultured human preadipocytes, we investigated lotus leaf extract solution-induced inhibition of triglyceride incorporation during adipogenesis and possible effects on cell viability. Studies on human adipocytes were performed aiming to elucidate the efficacy of lotus leaf extract solution to stimulate lipolytic activity. To further characterize lotus leaf extract solution-mediated effects, we determined the expression of the transcription factor adipocyte determination and differentiation factor 1 (ADD1/SREBP-1c) on the RNA- and protein level utilizing qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence analysis. Additionally, the effect of L-carnitine on beta-oxidation was analyzed using human preadipocytes and mature adipocytes. Finally, we investigated additive effects of a combination of lotus leaf extract solution and L-carnitine on triglyceride accumulation during preadipocyte/adipocyte differentiation.

Results

Our data showed that incubation of preadipocytes with lotus leaf extract solution significantly decreased triglyceride accumulation during adipogenesis without affecting cell viability. Compared to controls, adipocytes incubated with lotus leaf extract solution exhibited a significant increase in lipolysis-activity. Moreover, cell populations cultivated in the presence of lotus leaf extract solution showed a decrease in adipocyte differentiation capacity as indicated by a decrease in the ADD1/SREBP-1c signal. Importantly, our results demonstrated that a combination of lotus leaf extract solution and L-carnitine reduced triglyceride accumulation to a greater extent compared to incubation with either substance alone.

Conclusions

Overall, our data demonstrate that a combination of lotus leaf extract and L-carnitine reduced triglyceride accumulation in human (pre)adipocytes by affecting different processes during the adipocyte life cycle. For this reason, this combination might represent a treatment option for obesity-related diseases.
Childhood physical abnormalities following paternal exposure to sulfur mustard gas in Iran: a case-control study
Authors: Abolghasemi Hassan , Radfar Mohammad H , Rambod Mehdi , Salehi Parvin , Ghofrani Hossein , Soroush Mohammad R , Falahaty Farahnaz , Tavakolifar Yousef , Sadaghianifar Ali , Khademolhosseini Seyyed M , Kavehmanesh Zohreh , Joffres Michel , Burkle Frederick M , Mills Edward J
Published: August 2010

Background

Mustard gas, a known chemical weapon, was used during the Iran-Iraq war of 1980-1988. We aimed to determine if exposure to mustard gas among men was significantly associated with abnormalities and disorders among progenies.

Methods

Using a case-control design, we identified all progenies of Sardasht men (exposed group, n = 498), who were born at least nine months after the exposure, compared to age-matched controls in Rabat, a nearby city (non-exposed group, n = 689). We conducted a thorough medical history, physical examination, and appropriate paraclinical studies to detect any physical abnormality and/or disorder. Given the presence of correlated data, we applied Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) multivariable models to determine associations.

Results

The overall frequency of detected physical abnormalities and disorders was significantly higher in the exposed group (19% vs. 11%, Odds Ratio [OR] 1.93, 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.37-2.72, P = 0.0002). This was consistent across sexes. Congenital anomalies (OR 3.54, 95% CI, 1.58-7.93, P = 0.002) and asthma (OR, 3.12, 95% CI, 1.43-6.80, P = 0.004) were most commonly associated with exposure. No single abnormality was associated with paternal exposure to mustard gas.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates a generational effect of exposure to mustard gas. The lasting effects of mustard gas exposure in parents effects fertility and may impact child health and development in the long-term.
Left hepatic trisectionectomy for hilar cholangiocarcinoma presenting with an aberrant biliary duct of segment 5: a case report
Authors: Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Komagome Masahiko , Ishida Takashi , Shin Nobuhiro , Cho Narihiro , Ozawa Fumiaki , Hashimoto Daijo
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Management of the biliary ducts during liver resection is one of the most important challenges for hepatobiliary surgeons. Here, we report the case of a left hepatic trisectionectomy for hilar cholangiocarcinoma with a rare aberrant biliary duct of segment 5, which, to the best of our knowledge, has never been reported in previous literature.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old Asian female initially presented with intrahepatic bile duct dilatation in the left lateral sector, left paramedian sector, and right paramedian sector. Simultaneous cholangiography from a percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage tube in biliary duct of segment 8 and endoscopic nasobiliary drainage tube in biliary duct of segment 3 revealed drainage of the right lateral sectoral branch into the common hepatic duct and the aberrant drainage of segment 5 into the right lateral sectoral branch. The left hepatic duct, right paramedian sectoral duct, and the confluence of the right lateral sectoral duct were narrowed. Left hepatic trisectionectomy was successfully performed with careful dissection and division of the aberrant biliary duct of segment 5.

Conclusion

For safe liver resection, it is important to perform a detailed anatomic evaluation of the intrahepatic ducts, both preoperatively and intraoperatively.
Development of recurrent facial palsy during plasmapheresis in Guillain-Barré syndrome: a case report
Authors: Stevenson Mary L , Weimer Louis H , Bogorad Ilya V
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Guillain-Barré syndrome is an immune-mediated polyneuropathy that is routinely initially treated with either intravenous immunoglobulin or plasmapheresis. To the best of our knowledge, no association between plasmapheresis treatment and acute onset of facial neuropathy has been reported.

Case presentation

A 35-year-old Caucasian man with no significant prior medical history developed ascending motor weakness and laboratory findings consistent with a diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome. Plasmapheresis was initiated. Acute facial palsy developed during the plasma exchange that subsequently resolved and then acutely recurred during the subsequent plasma exchange.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, no prior cases of acute facial palsy developing during plasmapheresis treatment are known. Although facial nerve involvement is common in typical Guillain-Barré syndrome, the temporal association with treatment, near-complete resolution and later recurrence support the association. The possible mechanism of plasmapheresis-induced worsening of peripheral nerve function in Guillain-Barré syndrome is unknown.
Discontinuation of standard first‐line antiretroviral therapy in a cohort of 1434 Malawian children
Authors: Buck W Chris , Kabue Mark M , Kazembe Peter N , Kline Mark W
Published: August 2010

The standard first‐line antiretroviral (ART) regimen in Malawi for both adults and children is a fixed‐dose combination tablet containing stavudine (d4T), lamivudine (3TC) and nevirapine (NVP). This regimen has been shown to yield satisfactory virologic and immunologic outcomes in children. Published studies have described insights into discontinuation of first‐line regimen and toxicities of ART in adults, but similar studies in paediatric populations are lacking.

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken to assess reasons for discontinuation of the standard first‐line ART regimen (d4T/3TC/NVP) in a paediatric population. In total, 1434 patients met eligibility criteria and were included. The cohort had mean and median age at ART initiation of 4.7 years and 2.9 years, respectively (range: 0.1 months‐18.7 years). The gender distribution was 47% female and 53% male. Median follow‐up time on ART was 1.8 years (range: 2 weeks‐3.9 years). A majority (96.2%) of patients were on the standard first‐line ART regimen, while 3.8% (54) were on a different regimen. Twenty‐eight patients (2.0%) were on an alternative first‐line regimen due to toxicities, 22 patients (1.5%) were on a second‐line regimen due to ART failure, and four patients (0.3%) were on a non‐standard regimen for other clinical reasons.

Of the 28 patients who experienced toxicities requiring ART regimen change, 60.7% (17) were caused by NVP, 39.3% (11) by d4T, and none by 3TC. The median time from first‐line ART initiation to alternative first‐line ART was two months (range: 10 days‐28.1 months); 60.7% of patients on alternative first‐line ART were male. Average time on ART until switch to second‐line ART regimen was 16.3 months (SD: 9.3 months). The probability of failure after one year on first‐line regimen was 1.6% (95% CI: 0.9‐2.6).

There was no compelling evidence in this cohort, representing approximately 10% of all children on ART in Malawi, to support changing the standard paediatric first‐line regimen based on early toxicities or failure. However, experience from the national adult cohort, longer term follow up of the paediatric cohort in this study, emerging data on resistance after single‐dose NVP containing mother to child transmission antiretroviral prophylaxis, and new 2009 World Health Organization ART recommendations may influence national policy change to a different first‐line regimen.
Translational bioinformatics in the cloud: an affordable alternative
Authors: Dudley Joel T , Pouliot Yannick , Chen Rong , Morgan Alexander A , Butte Atul J
Published: August 2010

With the continued exponential expansion of publicly available genomic data and access to low-cost, high-throughput molecular technologies for profiling patient populations, computational technologies and informatics are becoming vital considerations in genomic medicine. Although cloud computing technology is being heralded as a key enabling technology for the future of genomic research, available case studies are limited to applications in the domain of high-throughput sequence data analysis. The goal of this study was to evaluate the computational and economic characteristics of cloud computing in performing a large-scale data integration and analysis representative of research problems in genomic medicine. We find that the cloud-based analysis compares favorably in both performance and cost in comparison to a local computational cluster, suggesting that cloud computing technologies might be a viable resource for facilitating large-scale translational research in genomic medicine.
Time evolution of the wave equation using rapid expansion method
Authors: Pestana Reynam C. , Stoffa Paul L.
Published: August 2010

Forward modeling of seismic data and reverse time migration are based on the time evolution of wavefields. For the case of spatially varying velocity, we have worked on two approaches to evaluate the time evolution of seismic wavefields. An exact solution for the constant-velocity acoustic wave equation can be used to simulate the pressure response at any time. For a spatially varying velocity, a one-step method can be developed where no intermediate time responses are required. Using this approach, we have solved for the pressure response at intermediate times and have developed a recursive solution. The solution has a very high degree of accuracy and can be reduced to various finite-difference time-derivative methods, depending on the approximations used. Although the two approaches are closely related, each has advantages, depending on the problem being solved.
Epileptiform seizures revealing neurocysticercosis: report of two clinical cases in Libreville, Gabon
Authors: Okome-Nkoumou M M L , Ondounda M , Dzeing-Ella A , Mounguengui D , Madjinou M I Nziengui , Clevenbergh Ph , Magne C , Nzenze J R
Published: August 2010

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common helminth infection of the central nervous system. It is caused by the larval form of the tapeworm Taenia solium and is increasingly recognized as a major cause of neurologic disease worldwide. Epilepsy is the usual mode of revelation. Neuroimaging, including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, combined with serodiagnostic techniques have led to this increased recognition. We report on two cases (one co-infected with the HIV) of NCC diagnosed in 2006 and 2008 at the Omar Bongo Ondimba Army Teaching Hospital. New-onset epilepsy revealed the two cases. Medical treatment with albendazole, anti-epileptic drugs and corticosteroids led to full recovery. NCC should be considered in tropical countries as a leading cause of epilepsy. Moreover, NCC should be included in the differential diagnosis of neurologic infections in HIV patients in endemic populations.
Three distinct peptides from the N domain of translation termination factor eRF1 surround stop codon in the ribosome
Authors: Bulygin Konstantin N. , Khairulina Yulia S. , Kolosov Petr M. , Ven'yaminova Aliya G. , Graifer Dmitri M. , Vorobjev Yuri N. , Frolova Ludmila Yu. , Kisselev Lev L. , Karpova Galina G.
Published: August 2010

To study positioning of the polypeptide release factor eRF1 toward a stop signal in the ribosomal decoding site, we applied photoactivatable mRNA analogs, derivatives of oligoribonucleotides. The human eRF1 peptides cross-linked to these short mRNAs were identified. Cross-linkers on the guanines at the second, third, and fourth stop signal positions modified fragment 31–33, and to lesser extent amino acids within region 121–131 (the “YxCxxxF loop”) in the N domain. Hence, both regions are involved in the recognition of the purines. A cross-linker at the first uridine of the stop codon modifies Val66 near the NIKS loop (positions 61–64), and this region is important for recognition of the first uridine of stop codons. Since the N domain distinct regions of eRF1 are involved in a stop-codon decoding, the eRF1 decoding site is discontinuous and is not of “protein anticodon” type. By molecular modeling, the eRF1 molecule can be fitted to the A site proximal to the P-site-bound tRNA and to a stop codon in mRNA via a large conformational change to one of its three domains. In the simulated eRF1 conformation, the YxCxxxF motif and positions 31–33 are very close to a stop codon, which becomes also proximal to several parts of the C domain. Thus, in the A-site-bound state, the eRF1 conformation significantly differs from those in crystals and solution. The model suggested for eRF1 conformation in the ribosomal A site and cross-linking data are compatible.
Children's explanations of the intentions underlying others' behaviour
Authors: Grant Meridith G. , Mills Candice M.
Published: August 2010

This study investigated developmental differences in children's explanations of the intentions underlying the behaviours of others, including behaviours that conflicted with their expectations. Children aged 6–13 and adults explained the intentions underlying their predictions of behaviour following stories with ambiguous, positive, and negative cues. Children were then presented with experimenter–provided conflicting behaviour and explained again. Results indicated that with no clear cues, children and adults had optimistic expectations. When cues were provided, participants across development provided explanations consistent with positive cues, but children under age 10 were reluctant to provide explanations consistent with negative cues, despite good recall. When explaining conflicting behaviour, people may hesitate to overlook suspicions of negative intent sometimes even in the face of good behaviour, and this reluctance may increase with age. Findings suggest we may all overcome an optimistic bias, but children under age 10 may struggle more to do so.
Vibrational spectroscopy of semiheavy water (HDO) as a probe of solute hydration
Authors: Śmiechowski Maciej , Stangret Janusz
Published: August 2010

Vibrational spectroscopy is an ideally suited tool for the study of solute hydration. Nevertheless, water is commonly considered by spectroscopists a difficult solvent to work with. However, by using the isotopic dilution technique, in which a small amount of D2O is introduced into H2O or vice versa with formation of semiheavy water (HDO), many technical and interpretative problems connected with measurement of infrared spectra of water may be circumvented. Particularly, the isotopic decoupling of stretching vibrational modes greatly simplifies interpretation of the spectra. Systematic studies conducted in several laboratories since the 1980s up to the present day have provided a vast amount of data, concerning mainly ionic hydration. Many of these experiments have been performed in our laboratory. The analysis method we applied is based on the quantitative version of the difference spectra technique and allows separation of the spectrum of solute-affected HDO from the bulk solvent. This review illustrates the development of vibrational spectroscopy of HDO and spectral analysis methods over the years, as well as summarizes the results obtained for ionic and nonionic solutes, including some general hydration models formulated on their basis.
Hydrated metal ions in aqueous solution: How regular are their structures?
Authors: Persson Ingmar
Published: August 2010

The hydration reaction is defined as the transfer of an ion or neutral chemical species from the gaseous phase into water, Mn+(g) → Mn+(aq). In this process, water molecules bind to metal ions through ion-dipole bonds of mainly electrostatic character. The hydration reaction is always strongly exothermic with increasing heat of hydration with increasing charge density of the ion. The structures of the hydrated metal ions in aqueous solution display a variety of configurations depending on the size and electronic properties of the metal ion. The basic configurations of hydrated metal ions in aqueous solution are tetrahedral, octahedral, square antiprismatic, and tricapped trigonal prismatic. This paper gives an overview of the structures of hydrated metal ions in aqueous solution with special emphasis on those with a non-regular coordination figure. Metal ions without d-electrons in the valance shell form regular aqua complexes with a coordination figure, allowing a maximum number of water molecules to be clustered around the metal ion. This number is dependent on the ratio of the metal ion radius to the atomic radius of oxygen in a coordinated water molecule (1.34 Å). The lighter lanthanoid(III) ions have a regular tricapped trigonal prismatic configuration with the M–O distance to the capping water molecules somewhat longer than to the prismatic ones. However, with increasing atomic number of the lanthanoid(III) ions, an increasing distortion of the capping water molecules is observed, resulting in a partial loss of water molecules in the capping positions for the heaviest lanthanoids. Metal ions with d4 and d9 valance shell electron configuration, as chromium(II) and copper(II), respectively, have Jahn–Teller distorted aqua complexes. Metal ions with low charge and ability to form strong covalent bonds, as silver(I), mercury(II), palladium(II), and platinum(II), often display distorted coordination figures due to the second-order Jahn–Teller effect. Metal ions with d10s2 valence shell electron configuration may have a stereochemically active lone electron pair (hemi-directed complexes) or an inactive one (holo-directed). The hydrated tin(II), lead(II), and thallium(I) ions are hemi-directed in aqueous solution, while the hydrated bismuth(III) ion is holo-directed. The structures of the hydrated cationic oxo-metal ions are reported as well.
Structure, solvation, and acid–base property in ionic liquids
Authors: Ishiguro Shin-ichi , Umebayashi Yasuhiro , Kanzaki Ryo , Fujii Kenta
Published: August 2010

Ionic liquids (ILs) are expected to have specific properties as solvents for chemical reactions in view of solution chemistry. Among physicochemical properties, liquid structure, acid–base, and electron-pair donating and accepting abilities of solvent play a crucial role in ion-solvation and acid–base, metal-ion complexation, and electrochemical reactions. Various types of ILs have been developed, and among others, the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide (TFSA–)-based ILs are extensively used. TFSA–is a flexible molecule to give two stable conformers,cis(C1) andtrans(C2), which are present in equilibrium in the liquid state. The conformational equilibrium shifts upon solvation to the metal ion. This is quantitatively studied to obtain thermodynamic parameters of conformational change from C2 to C1 in the bulk and in the solvation sphere of the lithium ion. On the other hand, with ethylammonium nitrate (EAN), a typical protic IL, it is revealed that the ammonium group is hydrogen-bonded with three nitrate ions to form a heterogeneous liquid structure. The solvent acid–base property of EAN and acid dissociation reaction in EAN have been quantitatively revealed, and the results will be discussed in comparison with those in normal molecular solvents.
Surface effects on optical and electrical properties of ZnO nanostructures
Authors: Chen Cheng-Ying , Chen Ming-Wei , Ke Jr-Jian , Lin Chin-An , Retamal José R. D. , He Jr-Hau
Published: August 2010

This article presents a comprehensive review of the current research addressing the surface effects on physical properties and potential applications of nanostructured ZnO. Studies illustrating the transport, photoluminescence (PL), and photoconductivity properties of ZnO with ultrahigh surface-to-volume (S/V) ratio are reviewed first. Secondly, we examine recent studies of the applications of nanostructured ZnO employing the surface effect on gas/chemical sensing, relying on a change of conductivity via electron trapping and detrapping process at the surfaces of nanostructures. Finally, we comprehensively review the photovoltaic (PV) application of ZnO nanostructures. The ultrahigh S/V ratios of nanostructured devices suggest that studies on the synthesis and PV properties of various nanostructured ZnO for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer great potential for high efficiency and low-cost solar cell solutions. After surveying the current literature on the surface effects on nano-structured ZnO, we conclude this review with personal perspectives on a few surface-related issues that remain to be addressed before nanostructured ZnO devices can reach their ultimate potential as a new class of industrial applications.
Experimental Techniques for Evaluation of Fatigue Characteristics of Laminated Constructions from Composite Materials: Full-Scale Testing of the Helicopter Rotor Blades
Authors: Rasuo Bosko
Published: August 2010

The importance of full-scale testing in the development process for composite laminated materials helicopter blades is discussed and illustrated by means of two examples drawn from the Aeronautical Department, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering’s experience in the use of composites in a wide variety of structural applications. Laboratory fatigue testing is conducted at the Aeronautical Department on all flight-critical dynamic components in order to determine structural adequacy. In this paper, the analyses of behavior by fatigue testing for a main rotor blade for a light multipurpose helicopter propulsion system and a heavy transport helicopter tail rotor blade of composite laminated materials are given. The blades were fabricated from composite laminated materials. The contour of airfoil was formed by a continuous structural pocket, which had a Rohacell foam core and a fiberglass skin. The upper and lower skins were fabricated from woven fiberglass that was laid up with fibers oriented at 45° and 0°/90° to the blade’s longitudinal axis. In the trailing edge of both skins, graphite fibers were placed for stiffening. Fatigue testing of the helicopter blades was accomplished in a special test facility designed to simulate the inflight loading. The applied test loads include simulated steady centrifugal, vibratory chordwise bending, vibratory flapwise bending, and vibratory torsional pitch motion. The fatigue analyses of these composite laminated structures were performed after fatigue test cycles for the detection of laminate separation, tolerance, and distortion of structure cross sections.
Water Bears & Pillbugs: Two Invertebrate Models That Offer Authentic Opportunities to Explore Research Methods in Biology
Authors: Rife Gwynne S
Published: August 2010

Biological research entails myriad techniques and considerations for proper experimental design and data collection. The duality of field-based research techniques and laboratory protocols makes introducing this topic to high school and undergraduate college students a challenge. Two invertebrate models that serve as wonderful tools to support an inquiry process to balance techniques in the field and in the laboratory are terrestrial isopods and water bears. Both are easy to collect and rear, are relatively little-known species, and offer the chance for students to work directly with aspects of natural history, ecology, and biology. The 10-step process presented here offers an outline to follow in guiding students through a research cycle in the course of a semester (16 weeks).
Using Brassica Butterflies as a Model Organism for AP Biology Lab 11
Authors: Van Hoeck Kathy
Published: August 2010

Advanced Placement Biology Lab 11 has used pillbugs as the model organism and choice chambers so that they can travel between two environments. I used cabbage white butterflies as the model organism. Each student was given their own larva and observed metamorphosis, choice behaviors of the larva, and mating behaviors of adult butterflies.
Effect of a Two‐hour Training on Physicians' Skill in Interpreting Pneumoconiotic Chest Radiographs
Authors: Ngatu Nlandu Roger , Suzuki Shun , Kusaka Yukinori , Shida Hisao , Akira Masanori , Suganuma Narufumi
Published: August 2010

Effect of a Two‐hour Training on Physicians' Skill in Interpreting Pneumoconiotic Chest Radiographs: Nlandu Roger Ngatu, et al. Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University

Objective

Occupational lung diseases have specific radiographic manifestations not always well known by physicians. In Japan, asbestos‐related diseases became a public health concern after the “Kubota Shock”, when a number of workers and residents living nearby a manufacturer of asbestos‐made ducts developed mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure. This preliminary intervention trial evaluated the effect of two‐hour training on inexperienced physicians' skill in interpreting pneumoconiotic chest radiographs.

Methods

One hundred‐two Japanese physicians participated in two reading‐tests, using 12 radiographs, before and after the two‐hour training with ILO/ICRP and Japan Pneumoconioses Study Group (JPSG) reading materials. Physicians had to check for the presence or absence of small opacity and pleural plaque consistent with pneumoconiosis. Sensitivity and specificity equal or greater than 70% were considered good, 50 to 69% acceptable and less than 50%, poor.

Results

Post‐training improvements in physicians' skills were seen. For small opacity, there was an increase in the proportion of physicians with good specificity, from 42% to 60%. For pleural plaque, the proportion of physicians with good specificity and good sensitivity increased, from 60% to 67% and from 18% to 25%, respectively. Also, significant improvements were observed in overall sensitivity for pleural plaque, from 46% to 60% (p<0.0001), and specificity for small opacity, from 65% to 73% (p<0.0001).

Conclusions

This study showed that two‐hour participatory training may enhance physicians' skill in interpreting pneumoconiotic chest radiographs. There are countries without any pneumoconiosis screening program despite the WHO/ILO call for worldwide cooperation in eliminating it. Although the two‐hour course cannot replace the five‐day ILO workshop, such a program would be useful in areas with environmental or occupational exposure to dust.
Surface and Biomechanical Study of Titanium Implants Modified by Laser With and Without Hydroxyapatite Coating, in Rabbits
Authors: Sisti Karin E. , de Rossi Rafael , Antoniolli Andreia M. Brochado , Aydos Ricardo D. , Guastaldi Antonio C. , Queiroz Thallita P. , Garcia Idelmo R. , Piattelli Adriano , Tavares Hewerson S.
Published: August 2010

Surface and biomechanical analysis of titanium implant surfaces modified by laser beam with and without hydroxyapatite. Titanium implants with 3 different surfaces were inserted into the tibias of 30 rabbits: group I (GI) machined surface (control group), group II irradiated with laser (GII), and group III irradiated with laser and hydroxyapatite coating applied—biomimetic method (GIII). Topographical analysis with scanning electron microscopy was made before surgery in the tibia. These rabbits were distributed into 2 periods of observation: 4 and 8 weeks postsurgery, after which biomechanical analysis (removal torque) was conducted. Statistical analysis used the Student-Newman-Keuls method. Surface showed roughness in GII and GIII. Biomechanical analysis demonstrated values with significant differences in GII and GIII. Titanium implants modified by laser irradiation can increase osseointegration during the initial phase.
Immediate Implantation With Ridge Augmentation Using Acellular Dermal Matrix and Deproteinized Bovine Bone: A Case Report
Authors: Park Jun-Beom
Published: August 2010

Immediate implant placement combined with hard and soft tissue grafting has been suggested because it may preclude dramatic postextraction bone loss and may decrease overall discomfort with reduction in the number of surgeries and in treatment time. In this case report, the acellular dermal matrix was used as a membrane for immediate implantation via a bone augmentation procedure in an esthetically challenging situation. The author suggests that this surgical technique provides the clinician with an option for an immediate implant therapy when primary closure is not intended. Additional randomized controlled trials conducted over long periods are necessary to establish whether this procedure offers long-term benefit to patients.
Nuclear androgen receptor staining in bone metastases is related to a poor outcome in prostate cancer patients
Authors: Crnalic S , Hörnberg E , Wikström P , Lerner U H , Tieva Å , Svensson O , Widmark A , Bergh A
Published: August 2010

Androgen receptors (ARs) are probably of importance during all phases of prostate cancer (PC) growth, but their role in bone metastases is largely unexplored. Bone metastases were therefore collected from hormone-naive (n=11), short-term castrated (n=7) and castration-resistant PC (CRPC, n=44) patients by biopsy (n=4) or at surgery to alleviate symptoms from metastases complications (metastasis surgery, n=58), and immunostained for nuclear ARs, Ki67, active caspase-3, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and chromogranin A, and results were related to serum PSA, treatments and outcome. Nuclear AR immunostaining was decreased and apoptosis was increased, but cell proliferation remained largely unaffected in metastases within a few days after surgical castration. In CRPC patients, nuclear AR staining of metastases was increased when compared to short-term castrated patients. The nuclear AR staining score was related to tumour cell proliferation, but it was not associated with other downstream effects of AR activation such as apoptosis and PSA staining, and it was only marginally related to the presence of neuroendocrine tumour cells. Serum PSA at metastasis surgery, although related to outcome, was not associated with AR staining, markers of metastasis growth or PSA staining in metastases. High nuclear AR immunostaining was associated with a particularly poor prognosis after metastasis surgery in CRPC patients, suggesting that such men may benefit from the potent AR blockers now tested in clinical trials.
Using Virtual Environments to Enhance Nursing Distance Education
Authors: Phillips Beth , Shaw Ryan J. , Sullivan Dori Taylor , Johnson Constance
Published: August 2010

Distance education has traditionally been two-dimensional, with limited interaction. Virtual environments enhance distance education learning through real-time interaction and social collaboration that mimic the real world. Virtual environments offer the option to create social and professional relationships that have been a missing component of distance learning.
Implicit Positive Emotion Counteracts Ego Depletion
Authors: Ren Jun , Hu Lingyun , Zhang Hongying , Huang Zihui
Published: August 2010

Previous researchers have shown that individual acts of self-regulation deplete individual psychological resources, resulting in poor subsequent self-regulation and ego depletion. It has also been shown that to counteract ego depletion, besides getting enough sleep or rest, positive
emotions are important. In this study we aimed to establish whether or not implicit positive emotion is important in countering ego depletion. In 2 experiments measuring the duration of self-regulation after implicit positive emotion it was found that self-regulation counteracts ego depletion.
Participants in an ego-depleted condition were exposed to subliminal positive stimuli and they persisted in subsequent self-regulation longer than another group of participants who were exposed to subliminal neutral stimuli.
Examining Psychosocial Impacts on Academic Performance
Authors: Lee Shyh-Hwang , Chen Ching-Yaw , Sok Keomony
Published: August 2010

The researchers aimed to extend the current understanding of the relationships between the psychological and sociological variables by examining how the combined, integrated set of these two theories is related to the academic achievement of full-time undergraduates in a university.
The intrapersonal level refers to students' learning behavior that is created by self-efficacy and expectation to succeed, the interpersonal level includes the influences from home and school on academic performance. We gained mixed results for these two levels and their impacts on academic
performance. Better academic outcomes can be expected only when we further understand the extent of these impacts.
The Impact of Guilt on Mimicry Behavior
Authors: Martin Angélique , Guéguen Nicolas , Fischer-Lokou Jacques
Published: August 2010

In the experiment we conducted, participants were separated into guilt or not guilt conditions, with guilt induced by causing participants to feel that they were responsible for something wrong that occurred to a confederate. A few minutes later, the participants viewed a video where
a young female touched and rubbed her face several times. A measure of feeling of guilt was administered in both experimental conditions. Participants in the guilt condition mimicked the target person more than those in the no-guilt condition. The level of mimicry appeared to be linked with
the level of guilt felt, but only in the guilt condition. Results support the notion that mimicry helps to create affiliation and rapport because the desire to build such a relationship is higher in the guilt condition.
Outcomes Before and After Total Knee Arthroplasty Compared to Healthy Adults
Authors: Bade Michael J. , Kohrt Wendy M. , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer E.
Published: August 2010

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Objectives

To measure changes in muscle strength, range of motion, and function from 2 weeks before to 6 months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and compare outcomes with data from a control group consisting of healthy adults.

Background

Total knee arthroplasty successfully alleviates pain from knee osteoarthritis, but deficits in function can persist long term. How impairments and functional limitations change over the first 6 months after TKA, compared to data from healthy adults, has not been well reported in the literature.

Methods

Twenty-four patients who underwent a primary unilateral TKA were compared to healthy adults (n = 17). All patients participated in a standardized rehabilitation program following surgery. Isometric quadriceps torque was assessed using an electromechanical dynamometer. Range of motion was measured actively and passively. Functional performance was assessed using the stair-climbing test, timed up-and-go test, 6-minute walk test, and single-limb stance time. Patients underwent testing at 2 weeks preoperatively and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively.

Results

Compared to healthy older adults, patients performed significantly worse at all times for all measures (P<.05), except for single-limb stance time at 6 months (P>.05). One month postoperatively, patients experienced significant losses from preoperative levels in all outcomes. Patients recovered to preoperative levels by 6 months postoperatively on all measures, except knee flexion range of motion, but still exhibited the same extent of limitation they did prior to surgery.

Conclusion

The persistent impairments and functional limitations 6 months after TKA with standard rehabilitation suggest that more intensive therapeutic approaches may be necessary to restore function of patients following TKA to the levels of healthy adults.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2010;40(9):559–567. doi:10.2519/jospt.2010.3317
Religious Pluralism in Post-communist Eastern Europe
Authors: Titarenko Larissa
Published: August 2010

There is a stereotype that such former Soviet republics as Russia, Ukraine and Belarus are totally Orthodox. However, this statement is not entirely correct, as part of the population in these countries belong to many different churches, while a large part have rather eclectic religious and para-religious beliefs. In the case of Belarus, a major part of the population belongs to two Christian confessions, Orthodox and Catholic, while many other confessions and new religious movements also exist. Religious pluralism is a practical reality in Belarus which has the reputation of the most religiously tolerant post-Soviet country. Contemporary laws provide the legal basis for the tolerant relations in the country, and there is a historical tradition of religious tolerance in Belarus. Research data from the EVS studies and national surveys are used.
The Shaman's Journeys between Emic and Etic
Authors: Bužeková Tatiana
Published: August 2010

The author focuses on the term 'shaman' as an analytical category. In academic usage its meaning has come to denote similar tribal beliefs all over the world, while in postmodern discourse the plural 'shamanisms' refers to a range of specific spiritual practices. The diverse movement of neo-shamanism appeared as a product of the interaction of etic and emic categories in anthropological literature, in particular as a result of the shift from the etic to an emic perspective that took place in the last forty or fifty years. The author argues that characterisations of shamans are people's representations rather than objective reality. These representations cannot serve as an explanation of a phenomenon, but themselves need explanation. Research in cognitive psychology could inform understanding of neo-shamanism: it would mean investigation of this social phenomenon as an outcome of the interaction of cognitive processes on the one hand and social inputs on the other.