bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromatographic Fingerprint and the Simultaneous Determination of Five Bioactive Components of Geranium carolinianum L. Water Extract by High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Wu Qiu-Yue , Zhou Yang , Jin Xin , Guan Yue , Xu Min , Liu Li-Fang
Published: December 2011

A simple and sensitive HPLC method has been developed in combination with fingerprint analysis and simultaneous determination of five markers, namely gallic acid, corilagin, methyl brevifolincarboxylate, ellagic acid and rutin for evaluation and quality control of Geranium carolinianum L. water extract. Extraction methods were optimized by comparing the hydrolysis efficiency of geraniin, a major tannin of the herb, resulting in the method of extraction with water under reflux. Water extracts were analyzed by HPLC, with a mobile phase of 0.1% aqueous phosphoric acid (v/v) and acetonitrile in a gradient program within 65 min. Compounds were detected at 274 nm UV wavelength. For fingerprint analysis, 17 peaks were selected as the characteristic peaks to evaluate the similarities of different samples collected from the suburb of Nanjing. The correlation coefficients of similarity were greater than 0.993. In quantitative analysis, the five selected markers showed good regression (R > 0.9991) within test ranges, and the average recoveries were between 97.2–101.7% and their RSD values were less than 4.50%. The total contents of the five markers varied from 44.28 to 71.84 mg/g. The method can be very useful for further development of G. carolinianum L. extracts and preparations.
Physicochemical Properties of Glycine-Based Ionic Liquid [QuatGly-OEt][EtOSO3] (2-Ethoxy-1-ethyl-1,1-dimethyl-2-oxoethanaminium ethyl sulfate) and Its Binary Mixtures with Poly(ethylene glycol) (Mw = 200) at Various Temperatures
Authors: Wu Tzi-Yi , Chen Bor-Kuan , Hao Lin , Lin Yuan-Chung , Wang H. Paul , Kuo Chung-Wen , Sun I-Wen
Published: December 2011

This work includes specific basic characterization of synthesized glycine-based Ionic Liquid (IL) [QuatGly-OEt][EtOSO3] by NMR, elementary analysis and water content. Thermophysical properties such as density, ρ, viscosity, η, refractive index, n, and conductivity, κ, for the binary mixture of [QuatGly-OEt][EtOSO3] with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) [Mw = 200] are measured over the whole composition range. The temperature dependence of density and dynamic viscosity for neat [QuatGly-OEt][EtOSO3] and its binary mixture can be described by an empirical polynomial equation and by the Vogel-Tammann-Fucher (VTF) equation, respectively. The thermal expansion coefficient of the ILs is ascertained using the experimental density results, and the excess volume expansivity is evaluated. The negative values of excess molar volume for the mixture indicate the ion-dipole interactions and packing between IL and PEG oligomer. The results of binary excess property (VmE) and deviations (Δη, ∆xn, ∆Фn, ∆xR, and ∆ФR) are discussed in terms of molecular interactions and molecular structures in the binary mixture.
The Effect of Raw Soybean on Oxidative Status of Digestive Organs in Mice
Authors: Gu Chunmei , Qu Hongsheng , Han Lingling , Song Xinxiu , Zhao Linlin , Lu Wenfa
Published: December 2011

The present study was undertaken to specify the effect of raw soybean on oxidative status of digestive organs in mice. For this purpose, thirty male (C57BL/6J) mice were randomly divided into three groups and fed on different diets as follows: Group 1 was fed on control diet, Group 2 was fed on raw soybean diet and Group 3 was fed on raw soybean diet supplemented with 30 mg/kg cysteamine. After two weeks of feeding, duodenum, liver and pancreas samples were collected to measure oxidative and antioxidative parameters. The results show that ingestion of raw soybean markedly increased contents of superoxide anion and malondialdehyde (MDA) and activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), decreased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), T-AOC and content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in digestive organs of mice (P < 0.05). In the group fed with raw soybean diet supplemented with cysteamine, oxidative stress was mitigated. However, oxidative parameter levels were still higher than those of control diet-fed group. The present study indicates that ingestion of raw soybean could result in an imbalance between oxidant and antioxidant, and thus induce oxidative stress in digestive organs of mice.
Inhibitors of Testosterone Biosynthetic and Metabolic Activation Enzymes
Authors: Ye Leping , Su Zhi-Jian , Ge Ren-Shan
Published: December 2011

The Leydig cells of the testis have the capacity to biosynthesize testosterone from cholesterol. Testosterone and its metabolically activated product dihydrotestosterone are critical for the development of male reproductive system and spermatogenesis. At least four steroidogenic enzymes are involved in testosterone biosynthesis: Cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1) for the conversion of cholesterol into pregnenolone within the mitochondria, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD3B), for the conversion of pregnenolone into progesterone, 17α-hydroxylase/17,20-lyase (CYP17A1) for the conversion of progesterone into androstenedione and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD17B3) for the formation of testosterone from androstenedione. Testosterone is also metabolically activated into more potent androgen dihydrotestosterone by two isoforms 5α-reductase 1 (SRD5A1) and 2 (SRD5A2) in Leydig cells and peripheral tissues. Many endocrine disruptors act as antiandrogens via directly inhibiting one or more enzymes for testosterone biosynthesis and metabolic activation. These chemicals include industrial materials (perfluoroalkyl compounds, phthalates, bisphenol A and benzophenone) and pesticides/biocides (methoxychlor, organotins, 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane and prochloraz) and plant constituents (genistein and gossypol). This paper reviews these endocrine disruptors targeting steroidogenic enzymes.
Les difficultés d'accès au diplôme des enfants de familles dissociées
Authors: Archambault Paul
Published: December 2011

L'enquête «jeune» complémentaire à l'enquête «emploi» de l'INSEE (1992) permet une évaluation de l'impact des structures familiales sur le niveau scolaire atteint par les enfants. A origine sociale et héritage scolaire donnés, la désunion du couple parental est associée à une moindre réussite scolaire des enfants. Les incidences sur la scolarité sont les plus apparentes dans les différences d'obtention de diplôme conforme au «niveau type» du milieu social et au capital scolaire transmis. Toutes les catégories sociales sont concernées et la durée moyenne des études est très souvent raccourcie en cas de dissociation des couples parentaux. Lorsqu'il y a recomposition familiale, le parcours scolaire jusqu'au baccalauréat semble cependant moins affecté par la séparation des parents biologiques.
Remarques sur le texte de la Chronographie de Michel Psellos (2)
Authors: Riedinger Jean-Claude
Published: December 2011

The Chronographia of Michael Psellus is one of the masterpieces of Byzantine historiography. The text available to us, in particular that of the edition of Emile Renauld, contains many obscure passages due both to the subtle Greek of Psellus and to state of the single manuscript in which the Chronographia is preserved. In an attempt to offer new suggestions the author of the article has looked into other works of Psellus in order to understand this writer’s usages. In this study he has included only those modifications which improve the text appreciably and alter the translation. [The second part of an article which begins in the preceding issue of the Revue.]
The Russian-Byzantine treaty of 971: Theophilos and Sveneld
Authors: Raev Mikhail
Published: December 2011

This article investigates certain textual problems which exist in the Russian-Byzantine treaty of 971. The text of this document survives only in the medieval Russian chronicle, 'Povest’ Vremennikh Let'. Two problems are investigated. The first one concerns the name of synkellos Theophilos, and the second deals with the name of Sveneld. The author proposes that there was a metathesis in the former name and that, in the original Byzantine text, he was known as Philotheos, as referred to by Leo the Deacon for the events in 969. The metathesis in his name may illuminate certain problems of transmission of historical information between different Byzantine and early Russian works. The author argues not only that Leo the Deacon and John Scylitzes drew on a number of common sources (at least two), but so did Scylitzes and the writer of PVL, in particular for the section concerning the Russian-Byzantine treaty of 971.
Accumulation of Drug Resistance and Loss of Therapeutic Options Precede Commonly Used Criteria for Treatment Failure in HIV-1 Subtype-C-Infected Patients
Authors: Barth Roos E , Aitken Susan C , Tempelman Hugo , Geelen Sibyl P , van Bussel Erik M , Hoepelman Andy IM , Schuurman Rob , Wensing Annemarie MJ
Published: December 2011

Background

Virological monitoring is essential to identify antiretroviral treatment (ART) failure, but not widely available. Here, accumulation of resistance and consequences for second-line therapy were investigated in African HIV-1 subtype-C-infected patients.

Methods

A total of 836 patients initiated non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based ART and received biannual HIV RNA monitoring. When first-line ART was continued despite virological failure (HIV RNA>1,000 copies/ml), genotypic resistance analysis was performed at baseline, first failure (t1), and 6 or 12 months later (t2). Major resistance mutations (IAS), Stanford genotypic sensitivity scores (GSSs) and proportions of patients meeting WHO-defined failure criteria were compared between time points.

Results

Most patients (642/836, 77%) reached viral suppression and 145/642 patients (23%) experienced subsequent failure after a median of 18 months. Counselling resulted in virological re-suppression in 27% (39/145) and 40% (58/145) continued first-line ART despite virological failure; 26 patients were included for genotypic analysis. The mean number of major drug resistance mutations per person increased from 2.8 (t1) to 4.3 (t2). Initially, NNRTI-associated mutations ( n=47) predominated; only 25 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)-associated mutations (mainly M184V) were detected. During prolonged viraemia, NRTI resistance increased ( n=44, +76%), in particular thymidine analogue mutations (from 4 to 14) and K65R (from 3 to 6). Consequently, GSSs declined from baseline to t1 and t2: from 3.8 to 1.0 to 0.7 (NNRTIs) and from 6.8 to 5.1 to 4.0 (NRTIs). Despite broad resistance, immunological failure was limited at t2.

Conclusions

Rapid accumulation of drug resistance occurred when ART was continued despite virological failure. Treatment options were lost, even when WHO-defined failure criteria were not met. This study calls for wider access to virological monitoring.
Students Prefer Audience Response System for Lecture Evaluation
Authors: Turban Joseph W
Published: December 2011

Objectives: Student evaluation of courses is an important component of overall course evaluation. The extent of student participation in the evaluation may be related to the ease of the evaluation process. The standard evaluation format is a paper form. This study examines medical students preference of utilizing Audience Response System compared to a paper method.

Methods: Following several medical school lectures, students were queried if they preferred Audience Response System versus a paper method, and if they would prefer using Audience Response System more for future course evaluations.

Results: 391 students were queried. Overall response rate was 94%. Using a five point Likert scale, 299 out of 361 (82%) responded they agreed, or strongly agreed with the statement â??We should use ARS more. . .
Usage of Technology Enhanced Educational Tools for Delivering Programming Courses
Authors: Ivanović Mirjana , Xinogalos Stelios , Komlenov Živana
Published: December 2011

Methods and approaches behind technology enhanced learning (TEL) in programming courses at a university level encourage continuous research in the last 20 years. Still there is no generally applicable way that would guarantee success. In this paper some experiences gathered during years of a technology-enhanced approach in teaching Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) at two universities in two countries are presented and compared. Emphasis is given on the technology-enhanced educational tools that were selected or developed by the two institutions for teaching OOP. Different traditions and independent development at both institutions allow us to draw generally applicable conclusions and recommendations.
Assessment of Usability Benchmarks: Combining Standardized Scales with Specific Questions
Authors: Linek Stephanie Bettina , Tochtermann Klaus
Published: December 2011

The usability of Web sites and online services is of rising importance. When creating a completely new Web site, qualitative data are adequate for identifying the most usability problems. However, changes of an existing Web site should be evaluated by a quantitative benchmarking process. The proposed paper describes the creation of a questionnaire that allows a quantitative usability benchmarking, i.e. a direct comparison of the different versions of a Web site and an orientation on general standards of usability. The questionnaire is also open for qualitative data. The methodology will be explained by the digital library services of the ZBW.
Lamin B Receptor Regulates the Growth and Maturation of Myeloid Progenitors via its Sterol Reductase Domain: Implications for Cholesterol Biosynthesis in Regulating Myelopoiesis
Authors: Subramanian Gayathri , Chaudhury Pulkit , Malu Krishnakumar , Fowler Samantha , Manmode Rahul , Gotur Deepali , Zwerger Monika , Ryan David , Roberti Rita , Gaines Peter
Published: December 2011

Lamin B receptor (LBR) is a bifunctional nuclear membrane protein with N-terminal lamin B and chromatin-binding domains plus a C-terminal sterol Δ14 reductase domain. LBR expression increases during neutrophil differentiation, and deficient expression disrupts neutrophil nuclear lobulation characteristic of Pelger-Huët anomaly. Thus, LBR plays a critical role in regulating myeloid differentiation, but how the two functional domains of LBR support this role is currently unclear. We previously identified abnormal proliferation and deficient functional maturation of promyelocytes (erythroid, myeloid, and lymphoid [EML]-derived promyelocytes) derived from EML-ic/ic cells, a myeloid model of ichthyosis (ic) bone marrow that lacks Lbr expression. In this study, we provide new evidence that cholesterol biosynthesis is important to myeloid cell growth and is supported by the sterol reductase domain of Lbr. Cholesterol biosynthesis inhibitors caused growth inhibition of EML cells that increased in EML-derived promyelocytes, whereas cells lacking Lbr exhibited complete growth arrest at both stages. Lipid production increased during wild-type neutrophil maturation, but ic/ic cells exhibited deficient levels of lipid and cholesterol production. Ectopic expression of a full-length Lbr in EML-ic/ic cells rescued both nuclear lobulation and growth arrest in cholesterol starvation conditions. Lipid production also was rescued, and a deficient respiratory burst was corrected. Expression of just the C-terminal sterol reductase domain of Lbr in ic/ic cells also improved each of these phenotypes. Our data support the conclusion that the sterol Δ14 reductase domain of LBR plays a critical role in cholesterol biosynthesis and that this process is essential to both myeloid cell growth and functional maturation.
Myeloid Cell IL-10 Production in Response to Leishmania Involves Inactivation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β Downstream of Phosphatidylinositol-3 Kinase
Authors: Nandan Devki , Camargo de Oliveira Carolina , Moeenrezakhanlou Alireza , Lopez Martin , Silverman Judith M. , Subek Jennifer , Reiner Neil E.
Published: December 2011

Leishmania disease expression has been linked to IL-10. In this study, we investigated the regulation of IL-10 production by macrophages infected with Leishmania donovani. Infection of either murine or human macrophages brought about selective phosphorylation of Akt-2 in a PI3K-dependent manner. These events were linked to phosphorylation and inactivation of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) at serine 9, as the latter was abrogated by inhibition of either PI3K or Akt. One of the transcription factors that is negatively regulated by GSK-3β is CREB, which itself positively regulates IL-10 expression. Infection of macrophages with leishmania induced phosphorylation of CREB at serine 133, and this was associated with enhanced CREB DNA binding activity and induction of IL-10. Similar to phosphorylation of GSK-3β, both phosphorylation of CREB at serine 133 and CREB DNA binding activity were abrogated in cells treated with inhibitors of either PI3K or Akt prior to infection. Furthermore, disruption of this pathway either by inhibition of Akt or by overexpression of GSK-3β markedly attenuated IL-10 production in response to leishmania. Thus, GSK-3β negatively regulates myeloid cell IL-10 production in response to leishmania. Switching off GSK-3β promotes disease pathogenesis.
Recruitment of a Distinct but Related Set of VH Sequences into the Murine CD21hi/CD23− Marginal Zone B Cell Repertoire to That Seen in the Class-Switched Antibody Response
Authors: White Henry N. , Meng Qing-Hai
Published: December 2011

Development and maintenance of cells in the murine follicular and marginal zone compartments is thought to involve differing levels of stimulation of the BCR, although it is still not clear which BCR ligands mediate these events. How the delineation between naive and Ag experienced B cell populations relates to cell phenotype and how precise or blurred this delineation is, is also not well understood. In this study, using PCR to analyze the Ab response to phenyl-oxazolone in the mouse, we show that the Ab repertoire of CD21hi/CD23− marginal zone B cells shows persistent increase in levels of particular IgM after immunization with foreign Ag. Further, we show that these IgMs have different but related VH/CDR3 sequences from those seen in the class-switched response to oxazolone that we have also analyzed. We also detect an effect of Ag on the follicular B cell repertoire that is less persisting. These results provide evidence consistent with the signal-strength model of mature B cell development being extended to include stimulation by foreign Ag, and also further the known zone of influence of foreign Ag on the B cell compartment.
Skin Mast Cells Protect Mice against Vaccinia Virus by Triggering Mast Cell Receptor S1PR2 and Releasing Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Wang Zhenping , Lai Yuping , Bernard Jamie J. , MacLeod Daniel T. , Cogen Anna L. , Moss Bernard , Di Nardo Anna
Published: December 2011

Mast cells (MCs) are well-known effectors of allergic reactions and are considered sentinels in the skin and mucosa. In addition, through their production of cathelicidin, MCs have the capacity to oppose invading pathogens. We therefore hypothesized that MCs could act as sentinels in the skin against viral infections using antimicrobial peptides. In this study, we demonstrate that MCs react to vaccinia virus (VV) and degranulate using a membrane-activated pathway that leads to antimicrobial peptide discharge and virus inactivation. This finding was supported using a mouse model of viral infection. MC-deficient (Kitwsh−/−) mice were more susceptible to skin VV infection than the wild type animals, whereas Kitwsh−/− mice reconstituted with MCs in the skin showed a normal response to VV. Using MCs derived from mice deficient in cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, we showed that antimicrobial peptides are one important antiviral granule component in in vivo skin infections. In conclusion, we demonstrate that MC presence protects mice from VV skin infection, MC degranulation is required for protecting mice from VV, neutralizing Ab to the L1 fusion entry protein of VV inhibits degranulation apparently by preventing S1PR2 activation by viral membrane lipids, and antimicrobial peptide release from MC granules is necessary to inactivate VV infectivity.
A Structural Basis for Varied αβ TCR Usage against an Immunodominant EBV Antigen Restricted to a HLA-B8 Molecule
Authors: Gras Stephanie , Wilmann Pascal G. , Chen Zhenjun , Halim Hanim , Liu Yu Chih , Kjer-Nielsen Lars , Purcell Anthony W. , Burrows Scott R. , McCluskey James , Rossjohn Jamie
Published: December 2011

EBV is a ubiquitous and persistent human pathogen, kept in check by the cytotoxic T cell response. In this study, we investigated how three TCRs, which differ in their T cell immunodominance hierarchies and gene usage, interact with the same EBV determinant (FLRGRAYGL), bound to the same Ag-presenting molecule, HLA-B8. We found that the three TCRs exhibit differing fine specificities for the viral Ag. Further, via structural and biophysical approaches, we demonstrated that the viral Ag provides the greatest energetic contribution to the TCR–peptide-HLA interaction, while focusing on a few adjacent HLA-based interactions to further tune fine-specificity requirements. Thus, the TCR engages the peptide-HLA with the viral Ag as the main glue, such that neighboring TCR–MHC interactions are recruited as a supportive adhesive. Collectively, we provide a portrait of how the host’s adaptive immune response differentially engages a common viral Ag.
On the Involvement of Copper Binding to the N‐Terminus of the Amyloid Beta Peptide of Alzheimer′s Disease: A Computational Study on Model Systems
Authors: Azimi Samira , Rauk Arvi
Published: December 2011

Density functional and second order Moller‐Plesset perturbation theoretical methods, coupled with a polarizable continuum model of water, were applied to determine the structures, binding affinities, and reduction potentials of Cu(II) and Cu(I) bound to models of the Asp1, Ala2, His6, and His13His14 regions of the amyloid beta peptide of Alzheimer′s disease. The results indicate that the N‐terminal Asp binds to Cu(II) together with His6 and either His13 or His14 to form the lower pH Component I of Aβ. Component II of Aβ is the complex between Cu(II) and His6, His13, and His14, to which an amide O (of Ala2) is also coordinated. Asp1 does not bind to Cu(II) if three His residues are attached nor to any Cu(I) species to which one or more His residues are bound. The most stable Cu(I) species is one in which Cu(I) bridges the Nδ of His13 and His14 in a linear fashion. Cu(I) binds more strongly to Aβ than does Cu(II). The computed reduction potential that closely matches the experimental value for Cu(II)/Aβ corresponds to reduction of Component II (without Ala2) to the Cu(I) complex after endergonic attachment of His6.
The Association of Hypertension with Obesity and Metabolic Abnormalities among Chinese Children
Authors: Xu Haiquan , Hu Xiaoqi , Zhang Qian , Du Songming , Fang Hongyun , Li Ying , Ma Jun , Li Tingyu , Du Lin , Guo Hongwei , Xu Guifa , Liu Ailing
Published: December 2011

A total of 8898 Chinese children (4580 boys and 4318 girls) aged 7–13 years in 6 cities of east China were recruited. Data on height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, serum lipid profiles, glucose, and insulin were collected. The overall prevalence of hypertension was 11.1%. Overweight and obese children had a higher risk of developing hypertension than their counterparts (29.1%, 17.4%, and 7.8%, resp.) (P=0.0001). The means levels of triglycerides, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR (1.0 mmol/L, 4.5 mmol/L, 8.4 mU/mL and 1.7, resp.) among hypertensive children were all significantly higher than their normotensive counterparts (0.8 mmol/L, 4.5 mmol/L, 5.9 mU/mL, and 1.2, resp.) (P=0.0001). Compared with the healthy children, the risk (odds ratio, OR) of having hypertension among children with high triglycerides, hyperglycemia, and metabolic syndrome was 1.4 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–2.0,P=0.0334), 1.5 (95% CI: 0.9–2.5,P=0.0890), and 2.8 (95%CI: 1.5–5.4,P=0.0014), respectively, after controlling for age, gender, BMI, income level, parents' education level and puberty. In conclusion, overweight and obese children have higher risk of having hypertension and children with dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and metabolic syndrome and higher HOMA-IR have higher risk of developing hypertension.
Embryonic and foetal Islet-1 positive cells in human hearts are also positive to c-Kit
Authors: Serradifalco C. , Catanese P. , Rizzuto L. , Cappello F. , Puleio R. , Barresi V. , Nunnari C. M. , Zummo G. , Di Felice V.
Published: December 2011

During embryogenesis, the mammalian heart develops from a primitive heart tube originating from two bilateral primary heart fields located in the lateral plate mesoderm. Cells belongings to the pre-cardiac mesoderm will differentiate into early cardiac progenitors, which express early transcription factors which are also common to the Isl-1 positive cardiac progenitor cells isolated from the developing pharyngeal mesoderm and the foetal and post-natal mice hearts. A second population of cardiac progenitor cells positive to c-Kit has been abundantly isolated from adult hearts. Until now, these two populations have been considered two different sets of progenitor cells present in the heart in different stages of an individual life. In the present study we collected embryonic, foetal and infant hearts, and we tested the hypotheses that c-Kit positive cells, usually isolated from the adult heart, are also present in the intra-uterine life and persist in the adult heart after birth, and that foetal Isl-1 positive cells are also positive to c-Kit. Using immunohistochemistry we studied the temporal distribution of Isl-1 positive and c-Kit/CD105 double positive cells, and by immunofluorescence and confocal analysis we studied the co-localization of c-Kit and Isl-1 positive cells. The results indicated that cardiomyocytes and interstitial cells were positive for c-Kit from the 9th to the 19th gestational week, that cells positive for both c-Kit and CD105 appeared in the interstitium at the 17th gestational week and persisted in the postnatal age, and that the Isl-1 positive cells were a subset of the c-Kit positive population.
Peripheral Osteoma of the Mandible
Authors: Shakya Hemant
Published: December 2011

Osteomas of the facial bones are a rare entity and very few cases have been reported in the literature. Osteomas are benign neoplasms, often asymptomatic and consist of well-differentiated matured bone. There are three varieties of osteomas- the central type arising from the endosteum, the peripheral type arising from the periosteum, and the extra-skeletal soft tissue osteomas which usually develops within the muscle. In the facial bones, both central and peripheral osteomas have been described. Peripheral osteomas have been described to occur in the frontal, ethmoid, and maxillary sinuses, but are not common in jawbones. We describe a rare case of symptomatic peripheral osteoma of mandible in a middle-aged female patient.
Mouse 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 for Human Application: Homology Modeling, Structural Analysis and Ligand-Receptor Interaction
Authors: Yamaguchi Hideaki , Akitaya Tatsuo , Kidachi Yumi , Kamiie Katsuyoshi , Noshita Toshiro , Umetsu Hironori , Ryoyama Kazuo
Published: December 2011

Mouse (m) 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) was homology-modeled, and its structure and ligand-receptor interaction were analyzed. The modeled m11βHSD2 showed significant 3D similarities to the human (h) 11βHSD1 and 2 structures. The contact energy profiles of the m11βHSD2 model were in good agreement with those of the h11βHSD1 and 2 structures. The secondary structure of the m11βHSD2 model exhibited a central 6-stranded all-parallel β-sheet sandwich-like structure, flanked on both sides by 3-helices. Ramachandran plots revealed that only 1.1% of the amino acid residues were in the disfavored region for m11βHSD2. Further, the molecular surfaces and electrostatic analyses of the m11βHSD2 model at the ligand-binding site exhibited that the model was almost identical to the h11βHSD2 model. Furthermore, docking simulation and ligand-receptor interaction analyses revealed the similarity of the ligand-receptor bound conformation between the m11βHSD2 and h11βHSD2 models. These results indicate that the m11βHSD2 model was successfully evaluated and analyzed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a m11βHSD2 model with detailed analyses, and our data verify that the mouse model can be utilized for application to the human model to target 11βHSD2 for the development of anticancer drugs.
Treatment Options for Hypercholesterolemia and Combined Dyslipidemia: Focus on Pitavastatin
Authors: Saito Yasushi
Published: December 2011

Pitavastatin is one of the most effective treatment agents for lowering serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Because pitavastatin is scarcely metabolized, the risk of drug-drug interactions during multidrug therapy is low, and the LDL-C target is achieved in the majority of patients. The incidence of adverse events associated with pitavastatin treatment has so far been comparable to or lower than that associated with other statins, and glucose metabolism is not affected by the drug. Pitavastatin promotes plaque regression and improves the plaque composition in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The serum level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) during treatment with pitavastatin was demonstrated to be inversely associated with the incidence of cardiovascular events. Because of its effective and sustained action to increase HDL-C, pitavastatin is expected to contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular events, in addition to its potent LDL-C lowering effect, especially in patients with low serum HDL-C levels.
The Relationship between Modifiable Health Risks and Group-Level Health Care Expenditures
Authors: Anderson David R. , Whitmer R. William , Goetzel Ron Z. , Ozminkowski Ronald J. , Wasserman Jeffrey , Serxner Seth ,   Health Enhancement Research Organization (HERO) Research Committee
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To assess the relationship between modifiable health risks and total health care expenditures for a large employee group.

Design.

Risk data were collected through voluntary participation in health risk assessment (HRA) and worksite biometric screenings and were linked at the individual level to health care plan enrollment and expenditure data from employers' fee-for-service plans over the 6-year study period.

Setting.

The setting was worksite health promotion programs sponsored by six large private-sector and public-sector employers.

Subjects.

Of the 50% of employees who completed the HRA, 46,026 (74.7%) met all inclusion criteria for the analysis.

Measures.

Eleven risk factors (exercise, alcohol use, eating, current and former tobacco use, depression, stress, blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and blood glucose) were dichotomized into high-risk and lower-risk levels. The association between risks and expenditures was estimated using a two-part regression model, controlling for demographics and other confounders. Risk prevalence data were used to estimate group-level impact of risks on expenditures.

Results.

Risk factors were associated with 25% of total expenditures. Stress was the most costly factor, with tobacco use, overweight, and lack of exercise also being linked to substantial expenditures.

Conclusions.

Modifiable risk factors contribute substantially to overall health care expenditures. Health promotion programs that reduce these risks may be beneficial for employers in controlling health care costs.
Combined Dietary and Exercise Intervention for Control of Serum Cholesterol in the Workplace
Authors: Angotti Catherine M. , Chan Wing T. , Sample C. James , Levine Marshal S.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To elucidate a potential combined dietary and exercise intervention affect on cardiovascular risk reduction of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Headquarters employees.

Design.

A nonexperimental, longitudinal, clinical-chart review study (1987 to 1996) of an identified intervention group and a reference (not a control) group.

Setting.

The study group worked in an office environment and participated in the annual medical examinations.

Subjects.

An intervention group of 858 people with initially elevated serum cholesterol, and a reference group of 963 people randomly sampled from 10% of the study group.

Measures.

Serum cholesterol data were obtained for both groups, respectively, from pre- and postintervention and annual examinations. The reference group was adjusted by statistical exclusion of potential intervention participants. Regression equations (cholesterol vs. study years) for the unadjusted/adjusted reference groups were tested for statistical significance.

Intervention.

An 8-week individualized, combined dietary and exercise program was instituted with annual follow-ups and was repeated where warranted.

Results.

Only the unadjusted (but not the adjusted) reference group with initial mean total serum cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL shows a significant 9-year decline trend and significant beta coefficient tests. An intervention effect is suggested. Mean high density lipoprotein cholesterol rose slightly in the intervention group but was maintained in the reference group.

Conclusion.

With potential design limitations, the NASA intervention program focusing on a high risk group may be associated to some degree, if not fully, with an overall cardiovascular risk profile improvement.
The Relationship between Home Smoking Bans and Exposure to State Tobacco Control Efforts and Smoking Behaviors
Authors: Norman Gregory J. , Ribisl Kurt M. , Howard-Pitney Beth , Howard Kim Ammann , Unger Jennifer B.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To examine the relationship between home smoking bans and adult smokers' exposure to the statewide California Tobacco Control Program (TCP) and their cigarette smoking behavior.

Design.

Cross-sectional survey that was part of the statewide Independent Evaluation of the California Tobacco Control, Prevention and Education Program.

Setting.

Random telephone interviews within 18 California counties.

Subjects.

A representative sample of 1315 adult smokers, aged 25 years and older.

Measures.

The telephone survey included questions about smoking behavior, quitting smoking, exposure to tobacco control program components, home smoking rules, and attitudes related to tobacco use and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).

Results.

Smokers with a home smoking ban were twice as likely (OR = 2.29; 95% CI 1.22, 4.29) to have heard of TCP community programs and three times more likely (OR = 3.18; 95% CI 1.34, 7.57) to have seen and talked about the ETS media spot than smokers with no home smoking policy. Multivariate regression models indicated that having a home smoking ban was related to smoking fewer cigarettes per day and greater interest in quitting smoking compared with smokers with no smoking rules in the home (p < .05).

Conclusions.

These findings suggest that smokers reporting exposure to the California TCP were more likely to have restrictive home smoking policies and that more restrictive home smoking policies were associated with reduced smoking behavior.
Randomized Trial of a “Talking Computer” to Improve Adults' Eating Habits
Authors: Delichatsios Helen K. , Friedman Robert H. , Glanz Karen , Tennstedt Sharon , Smigelski Charles , Pinto Bernardine M. , Kelley Heather , Gillman Matthew W.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To assess efficacy of an intervention delivered by an interactive, computer-controlled telephone system to improve individuals' diets.

Design.

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting.

Large multispecialty group practice.

Subjects.

Two hundred ninety-eight adults who were both sedentary and had suboptimal diet quality.

Intervention.

Weekly communication for 6 months via a totally automated, computer-based voice system. Among intervention group subjects, the system monitored dietary habits and provided educational feedback, advice, and behavioral counseling. Control group subjects received physical activity promotion counseling.

Measures.

Daily intake of fruits, vegetables, red and processed meats, whole fat dairy foods, and whole grain foods estimated from a food frequency questionnaire.

Results.

Mean age 45.9 years, 72 % women, 45 % white, and 45 % African-American. Among participants who completed diet assessments, compared with the control group, the intervention raised fruit intake a mean of 1.1 servings per day (95 % confidence interval [CI] .4, 1. 7). On a 0 to 100 global diet quality score combining all five food groups, intervention participants improved their mean score 9 (95 % 4 CI 13) points more than in the control group. The intervention also raised dietary fiber intake 4.0 g/d (95 % CI .1, 7.8) and decreased saturated fat, as a proportion of energy intake, by 1.7% (95% CI −2.7, −.7).

Conclusions.

This computer-based telecommunications dietary behavior intervention helped improve participants' overall diet.
Assimilation of IASI satellite CO fields into a global chemistry transport model for validation against aircraft measurements
Authors: Klonecki A. , Pommier M. , Clerbaux C. , Ancellet G. , Cammas J.-P. , Coheur P.-F. , Cozic A. , Diskin G. S. , Hadji-Lazaro J. , Hauglustaine D. A. , Hurtmans D. , Khattatov B. , Lamarque J.-F. , Law K. S. , Nedelec P. , Paris J.-D. , Podolske J. R. , Prunet P. , Schlager H. , Szopa S. , Turquety S.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. A modelling system for assimilation of CO total columns measured by the IASI/MetOp was developed. The system, based on a sub-optimal Kalman filter coupled with the LMDz-INCA chemistry transport model, allows both assimilating long periods of historical data and making rapid forecasts of the CO concentrations in the middle troposphere based on latest available measurements. Tests of the forecast system were conducted during the international POLARCAT campaigns. A specific treatment that takes into account the representativeness of observations at the scale of the model grid is applied to the IASI CO columns and associated errors before their assimilation in the model. This paper presents the results of assimilation of eight months of historical satellite data measured in 2008. Comparisons of the assimilated CO profiles with independent in situ CO measurements from the MOZAIC program and the POLARCAT aircraft campaigns indicate that the assimilation leads to a considerable improvement of the model simulations in the middle troposphere as compared with a control run with no assimilation. Model biases in the simulation of background values are reduced and improvement in the simulation of very high concentrations is observed. The improvement is due to the transport by the model of the information present in the IASI CO retrievals. The consistency of the improvement contributes to the validation of the IASI CO data.
Comments on the generation mechanism of Seismic Electric Signals
Authors: Dologlou E.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Recent laboratory measurements on rocks under varying pressure lead to results which strengthen a model suggested by the author for the explanation of the power law relation that interconnects the lead time of Seismic Electric Signals and earthquake stress drop. In addition, recent applications of a thermodynamic model that interrelates the defect parameters in materials of geophysical interest and their bulk properties open a new window to further advance the aforementioned explanation.
Examination of three practical run-up models for assessing tsunami impact on highly populated areas
Authors: Muhari A. , Imamura F. , Koshimura S. , Post J.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. This paper describes the examination of three practical tsunami run-up models that can be used to assess the tsunami impact on human beings in densely populated areas. The first of the examined models applies a uniform bottom roughness coefficient throughout the study area. The second uses a very detailed topographic data set that includes the building height information integrated on a Digital Elevation Model (DEM); and the third model utilizes different bottom roughness coefficients, depending on the type of land use and on the percentage of building occupancy on each grid cell. These models were compared with each other by taking the one with the most detailed topographic data (which is the second) as reference. The analysis was performed with the aim of identifying how specific features of high resolution topographic data can influence the tsunami run-up characteristics. Further, we promote a method to be used when very detailed topographic data is unavailable and discuss the related limitations. To this purpose we demonstrate that the effect of buildings on the tsunami flow can be well modeled by using an equivalent roughness coefficient if the topographic data has no information of building height. The results from the models have been utilized to quantify the tsunami impact by using the tsunami casualty algorithm. The models have been applied in Padang city, Indonesia, which is one of the areas with the highest potential of tsunami risk in the world.
El doble de la palabra. El mito de Eco en la literatura inglesa contemporánea
Authors: Monrós Gaspar Laura
Published: December 2011

El objetivo de este artículo es el estudio de la figura de Eco en la literatura contemporánea escrita en lengua inglesa a partir de trabajos de A.S. Byatt, Timberlake Wertenbaker, Nicole Ward Jouve y Moniza Alvi entre otros. En poesía, teatro y relatos cortos, analizamos a Eco primero desde la literatura crítica publicada sobre la ninfa y posteriormente desde la perspectiva de oposiciones binarias uno/otro, metrópolis/colonia, palabra/silencio. Consideradas en conjunto, las obras revisadas en este artículo demuestran cómo la recepción del mito en la literatura contemporánea se encuentra estrechamente ligada a la evolución del concepto del doble en la cultura occidental.
Quitte ou double? Robbe-Grillet et le mythe de l'identité
Authors: Voisset-Veysseyre Cécile
Published: December 2011

Une lecture du texte d’Alain Robbe-Grillet met à jour la force d’une écriture qui démystifie c’est-à-dire qui évacue le contenu représentatif. Sur le mode cinématographique, s’élabore une pratique littéraire qui fait sienne la coupure comme ressort narratif et pour laquelle, dans le cadre d’un nouveau roman qui problématise la perception de soi, le montage définit tout l’espace du jeu; si l’auteur est mort, l’autobiographie aussi. L’écrivain – le scripteur – expérimente une forme romanesque dont la modernité tranche avec la linéarité du récit traditionnel; non seulement le moi ne s’y invente pas, mais il s’y ruine de manière emblématique sous la figure du miroir brisé. La traversée du fantasme, celui du double c’est-à-dire de l’un et du multiple, conduit à l’analyse textuelle d’une identité dont le mythe se porte garant.
The Mythic Hero and the Wheel: The Narrative Pattern of the Quest Motif in Sam Mendes's "Road to Perdition"
Authors: Flores Moreno Cristina
Published: December 2011

It is the main purpose of this paper to explore the narrative pattern of the quest motif in Sam Mendes's Road to Perdition (2002). The study of the narrative structure in Sam Mendes's movie will illustrate that the quest constituent in the road movie genre sometimes acquires the form of a contemporary ‘mechanized’ version of the archetypal hero-adventure as it was described by Campbell in A Hero with a Thousand Faces (1949). The movie is based on a graphic novel by Max Allan Collins and Richard Piers Rayner, though Mendes significantly departs from it to provide the story with a mythic weight that was not present in Collins’s work.
In vivo Assessment of Higher-Order Aberrations after Acrysof Toric Intraocular Lens Implantation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Scialdone Antonio , Raimondi Giulia , Monaco Gaspare
Published: December 2011

Purpose

To compare higher-order aberrations (HOAs) and optical quality in eyes implanted with AcrySof SN60TT toric intraocular lens (IOL) or with non-toric AcrySof SN60AT IOL (Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX).

Methods

This was a prospective, consecutive, nonrandomized, interventional, comparative study. One hundred eyes with cataract in 56 patients were included (SN60TT group, n=50; SN60AT group, n=50). Patients underwent phacoemulsification through a 2.2-mm temporal corneal incision. Postoperative HOAs, point spread function (PSF) and modulation transfer function (MTF), residual objective refractive astigmatism, and IOL alignment were evaluated using Optical Path Difference (OPD)–Scan II (Nidek, Gamagori, Japan). A novel technique to calculate IOL axis alignment was introduced.

Results

One year postoperatively, no statistical difference in corneal, intraocular, and total HOAs, Strehl ratio, and MTF based on HOAs was found between groups. Toric IOL patients had a net residual refractive astigmatism (M) of 0.44 D±0.47; the difference between expected and obtained astigmatism (M) was 0.043 D (p=0.16). Toric IOL axis misalignment was 2.65±2.39 degrees and no correlation with HOAs was found.

Conclusions

AcrySof SN60TT determines HOAs comparable to the non-toric version providing a good optical quality, and predictably corrects corneal cylinder with a stable postoperative alignment. The OPD-Scan II might be regarded as a fast and reliable method of toric IOL analysis.
Hematuria One Stop Clinic: First Experience in Italy with 150 Cases
Authors: Carmignani Luca , Bozzini Giorgio , Nicosia Vincenzo , Consentino Massimo , Picozzi Stefano , Casellato Stefano , Lunelli Luca
Published: December 2011

Objectives

Starting from the UK experience, we decided to test both the feasibility and the advantages of this diagnostic pathway now established in an Italian hospital. We analyzed the outcomes in detecting transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder, other malignant and non-malignant conditions.

Materials an d Methods

Between April and December 2010, one hundred and fifty patients presenting with hematuria were referred to the Hematuria One Stop Clinic (HOSC) at our Institution. Each patient underwent a visit, a Urinary Tract Ultrasound, a Cystoscopy and CT IVP in selected cases (evidence of alterations or lesions of the renal parenchyma, presence of stones of the urinary tract, evidence of doubtful or positive urinary cytology). Where a TCC of the bladder was diagnosed, the patient underwent TURBT In other cases (stones, BPH etc.) the appropriate therapeutic pathway was followed.

Results

25.3% of patients with hematuria were found to have a bladder cancer; 21.3% had a urinary stone (2% in the bladder); 1.3% had prostate cancer; 1.3% had a renal cell carcinoma. The mean age was 69.8 yrs. 6% of the patients (23.6% on patients with TCC of the bladder) had a G3 disease. The mean time from admission to the HOSC until the operation day, in case of TCC of the bladder, was 10.61 days.

Conclusions

The Italian experience of the One Stop Clinic confirms a high rate of bladder cancer detection. Furthermore, a high rate of non-malignant conditions was detected, stressing the importance of the HOSC not only as a cancer clinic but as a complete general urological clinic. We report a shorter waiting time to operation, especially for bladder TCC G3 patients.
A Characterization of Uniform Matroids
Authors: Chaourar Brahim
Published: December 2011

This paper gives a characterization of uniform matroids by means of locked subsets. Locked subsets are 2-connected subsets, their complements are 2-connected in the dual, and the minimum rank of both is 2. Locked subsets give the nontrivial facets of the bases polytope.