bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potent Antitumor Immunity Generated by a CD40-Targeted Adenoviral Vaccine
Authors: Hangalapura Basav N. , Oosterhoff Dinja , de Groot Jan , Boon Louis , Tüting Thomas , van den Eertwegh Alfons J. , Gerritsen Winald R. , van Beusechem Victor W. , Pereboev Alexander , Curiel David T. , Scheper Rik J. , de Gruijl Tanja D.
Published: July 2011

In situ delivery of tumor-associated antigen (TAA) genes into dendritic cells (DC) has great potential as a generally applicable tumor vaccination approach. Although adenoviruses (Ad) are an attractive vaccine vehicle in this regard, Ad-mediated transduction of DCs is hampered by the lack of expression of the Ad receptor CAR on the DC surface. DC activation also requires interaction of CD40 with its ligand CD40L to generate protective T-cell–mediated tumor immunity. Therefore, to create a strategy to target Ads to DCs in vivo, we constructed a bispecific adaptor molecule with the CAR ectodomain linked to the CD40L extracellular domain via a trimerization motif (CFm40L). By targeting Ad to CD40 with the use of CFm40L, we enhanced both transduction and maturation of cultured bone marrow–derived DCs. Moreover, we improved transduction efficiency of DCs in lymph node and splenic cell suspensions in vitro and in skin and vaccination site–draining lymph nodes in vivo. Furthermore, CD40 targeting improved the induction of specific CD8+ T cells along with therapeutic efficacy in a mouse model of melanoma. Taken together, our findings support the use of CD40-targeted Ad vectors encoding full-length TAA for in vivo targeting of DCs and high-efficacy induction of antitumor immunity. Cancer Res; 71(17); 5827–37. ©2011 AACR.
Short Children with Low Birth Weight Born either Small for Gestational Age or Average for Gestational Age Show Similar Growth Response and Changes in Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 to Growth Hormone Treatment during the First Prepubertal Year
Authors: Ranke M.B. , Martin D.D. , Ehehalt S. , Schwarze C.P. , Serra F. , Wollmann H.A. , Schweizer R.
Published: July 2011

Background/Aims: Growth hormone (GH) is an accepted treatment for short children born small for gestational age (SGA). The aim of this analysis was to compare the growth response to GH in children with low birth weight born SGA or appropriate for gestational age (AGA). Methods: This retrospective observational study is from one center. Of all the children with a birth weight <2,500 g treated, 50 were primarily diagnosed as having growth hormone deficiency ([A] SGA, n = 26; [B] AGA, n = 24) and 138 were originally diagnosed SGA or AGA (reclassified: [C] SGA, n = 102; [D] AGA, n = 36). Results: [Median; A, B, C, D]: at an age of 4.9, 5.2, 5.8, 5.8 years, a height of –2.9, –2.4, –2.8, –2.9 SDS and a GH dose of 27, 28, 41, 39 µg/kg/day, the children grew 0.9, 0.9, 0.8, 0.9 SDS in height, respectively. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) at GH start was, respectively, –2.1, –2.2, –0.4, –0.9 SDS and rose to (delta IGF-1) 1.8, 2.0, 1.7, 1.5 SDS during the first year on GH. All differences were not significant. Conclusions: We show for the first time that short stature children with low birth weight born AGA experience the same increase in height and IGFs to GH treatment as those born SGA irrespective of actual GH secretory status.
A Study of the Microbiology of Breast Abscess in a Teaching Hospital in Kuwait
Authors: Al Benwan Khalifa , Al Mulla Ahmed , Rotimi Vincent O.
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To determine the microbiological profile of breast abscess and assess the antibiotic susceptibility of the causative agents. Materials and Methods: Data obtained from cases of breast abscess over a period of 3.5 years, June 2006 to December 2009, were retrospectively analyzed. Specimens were cultured using optimal aerobic and anaerobic microbiological techniques. The antibiotic susceptibility test was carried out using the methods recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. One specimen per patient was analyzed. Results: Of the 114 patients, 107 (93.8%) non-lactating and 7 (6.1%) lactating women were diagnosed with breast abscess during this period. Of the 114 specimens, 83 (73%) yielded bacterial growth. Of these, 115 pathogens were isolated with an average of 1.4 pathogens per abscess. Eighteen (22%) of the 83 specimens yielded mixed bacterial growth. There were more Gram-positive pathogens (60, 52%) than anaerobes (32, 28%) and Gram-negative pathogens (22, 19%). The predominant organisms were methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (37, 32%), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA; 11, 10%), Bacteroides spp. (16, 14%), anaerobic streptococci (14, 12%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9, 8%). Of the 48 S. aureus, MRSA accounted for 11 (23%). All MRSA isolates were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and vancomycin. Conclusion:S. aureus was the most common pathogenic organism isolated in breast abscesses at Al-Amiri Hospital, Kuwait, of which 23% were MRSA. Nearly a third of the cases were caused by anaerobes, particularly B. fragilis. The data present a basis for the formation of empirical antimicrobial therapeutic policy in the management of breast abscess.
Application of Simultaneous Morcellation in situ in Laparoscopic Myomectomy of Larger Uterine Leiomyomas
Authors: Zhang Peihai , Song Kun , Li Li , Yukuwa Kazunori , Kong Beihua
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To describe the efficiency, blood loss, operating time and mean hospital stay of enucleation of a large myoma by ‘simultaneous morcellation in situ’ (SMI) in laparoscopic myomectomy (LM). Patients and Methods: Twenty-six patients with leiomyomas >9 cm in diameter were treated using LM and SMI from January 2006 to December 2009. Patient characteristics and operative data were collected and analyzed. Results: The average operating time was 106.4 ± 38.5 min (range 50–175 min). The average blood loss was 278.2 ± 164.6 ml (range 50–800 ml). There was no other complication, and no patient underwent conversion to laparotomy. The average postoperative hospital stay was 5.4 ± 0.2 days (range 5–7 days). Conclusion: Our study confirmed that SMI is an efficient and safe way to remove large uterine myomas (>9 cm) during LM.
Impact of Asymptomatic Malaria on Some Hematological Parameters in the Iwo Community in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Igbeneghu Christopher , Odaibo Alex B. , Olaleye David O.
Published: July 2011

Objective: To determine the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria among prospective blood donors and its effect on some hematological parameters. Subjects and Methods: Six hundred sixty-eight seemingly healthy individuals (501 men and 167 women) ≧16 years of age and without clinical symptoms in Iwo, Southwestern Nigeria, were screened for this study. A sample of 5 ml of blood was drawn from each participant for examination of malaria parasites and a full blood count. Thick and thin Giemsa-stained blood smears were prepared for malaria parasite identification and quantification. Estimations of hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and platelet and leukocyte counts were made using an automated Coulter counter (STKS model). Results: Out of the 668 participants examined, 141 (21.1%) were positive for malarial parasitemia. The parasite rate was significantly higher in men (25.5%) than in women (7.8%) (χ2 = 23.29, p < 0.001) and it was significantly associated with age (χ2 = 33.69, p < 0.001). Parasitemic participants had significantly lower mean values of hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and total leukocyte and platelet counts compared to aparasitemic individuals (t = 3.5, p < 0.001; t = 2.0, p = 0.04; t = 4.4, p < 0.001, and t = 5.3, p < 0.001, respectively). A low platelet count (<150 × 109/l) was significantly associated with malarial infection (OR 4.0; 95% CI 2.6–6.1). A person with a platelet count <150 × 109/l was 4 times more likely to have asymptomatic malarial infection than one with a count ≧150 × 109/l. Conclusion: Asymptomatic malaria is prevalent among blood donors in the study area and is associated with thrombocytopenia.
Rare Association of Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy and Klinefelter Syndrome (47,XXY): Case Report
Authors: Kararizou E. , Mentis A.F. , Gkiatas K. , Davaki P.
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To describe a case with the rare association of Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY) and peripheral sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 50-year-old man with Klinefelter syndrome was referred to our neurology clinic complaining of pain, numbness and tingles in both legs, which began 10 years prior to admission. Two years before admission, the patient had difficulty in walking with progressive weakness. Conclusion: This report shows a patient with diagnosed Klinefelter syndrome, in whom symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy developed in late adulthood.
Treatment with 5-Aminolaevulinic Acid Methylester Is Less Painful than Treatment with 5-Aminolaevulinic Acid Nanoemulsion in Topical Photodynamic Therapy for Actinic Keratosis
Authors: Gholam Patrick , Weberschock Tanja , Denk Katharina , Enk Alexander
Published: July 2011

Background: Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an excellent treatment option for actinic keratosis (AK). Pain is one of the major adverse effects. Objective: To compare the pain intensity during the extensive treatment of cosmetic units using 5-aminolaevulinic acid methylester (MAL) or 5-aminolaevulinic acid nanoemulsion (BF-200-ALA). Methods: 173 patients with 965 treated areas were enrolled in this retrospective monocentric study. All patients had multiple AKs and received an extensive treatment of the photodamaged area. 424 areas were treated with MAL and 541 with BF-200-ALA. Pain was rated using a standardized visual analogue scale (VAS). The number of PDT treatment interruptions was documented. Results: PDT with MAL led to a lower mean VAS score (5.0 vs. 5.8), a lower number of treatment interruptions (13.2 vs. 19.9%) and a lower amount of patients experiencing severe pain (25.0 vs. 36.0%) compared to PDT with BF-200-ALA. Conclusion: Our data shows that PDT using MAL is less painful than PDT using BF-200-ALA resulting in a significantly lower mean VAS score (p < 0.001), significantly fewer patients experiencing severe pain (p < 0.001) and a significantly (p < 0.05) lower number of treatment interruptions. Differences in selectivity for tumour cells and transport of ALA in peripheral neurons may play a role.
Molecular Cloning, Overexpression and Characterization of a Novel Feruloyl Esterase from a Soil Metagenomic Library
Authors: Sang Shu Li , Li Gang , Hu Xiao Peng , Liu Yu Huan
Published: July 2011

The gene estF27, encoding a protein with feruloyl esterase activity, was cloned through functional screening from a soil metagenomic library and expressed in Escherichiacoli BL21 (DE3) with high solubility. Sequence analysis showed that estF27 encoded a protein of 291 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 31.16 kDa. According to the substrate specificity, EstF27 was classified as a type A feruloyl esterase. EstF27 displayed optimal activity at 40°C and pH 6.8. This enzyme was stable in a broad pH range of 5.0–10.0 over 24 h, and retained more than 50% of its activity after 96 or 120 h incubation in the presence of 3 M KCl or 5 M NaCl. The enzyme activity was slightly enhanced by the addition of Mg2+ and Fe3+ at a low concentration, and completely inhibited by Cu2+. In the enzymatic hydrolysis of destarched wheat bran, EstF27 could release ferulic acid from it in the presence of xylanase from Thermomyces lanuginosus. Given its alkalitolerance, halotolerance and highly soluble expression, EstF27 is a promising candidate for industrial applications.
A Randomized Controlled Trial on Very Early Speech and Language Therapy in Acute Stroke Patients with Aphasia
Authors: Laska A.C. , Kahan T. , Hellblom A. , Murray V. , von Arbin M.
Published: July 2011

Background: Aphasia affects one third of acute stroke patients. There is a considerable spontaneous recovery in aphasia, but impaired communication ability remains a great problem. Communication difficulties are an impediment to rehabilitation. Early treatment of the language deficits leading to increased communication ability would improve rehabilitation. The aim of this study is to elucidate the efficacy of very early speech and language therapy (SLT) in acute stroke patients with aphasia. Methods: A prospective, open, randomized, controlled trial was carried out with blinded endpoint evaluation of SLT, starting within 2 days of stroke onset and lasting for 21 days. 123 consecutive patients with acute, first-ever ischemic stroke and aphasia were randomized. The SLT treatment was Language Enrichment Therapy, and the aphasia tests used were the Norsk grunntest for afasi (NGA) and the Amsterdam-Nijmegen everyday language test (ANELT), both performed by speech pathologists, blinded for randomization. Results: The primary outcome, as measured by ANELT at day 21, was 1.3 in the actively treated patient group and 1.2 among controls. NGA led to similar results in both groups. Patients with a higher level of education (>12 years) improved more on ANELT by day 21 than those with <12 years of education (3.4 vs. 1.0, respectively). In 34 patients in the treatment group and 19 in the control group improvement was ≧1 on ANELT (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the degree of aphasia at baseline except for fluency, which was higher in the group responding to treatment. Conclusions: Very early intensive SLT with the Language Enrichment Therapy program over 21 days had no effect on the degree of aphasia in unselected acute aphasic stroke patients. In aphasic patients with more fluency, SLT resulted in a significant improvement as compared to controls. A higher educational level of >12 years was beneficial.
Nitric Oxide Scavenging by Red Blood Cell Microparticles and Cell-Free Hemoglobin as a Mechanism for the Red Cell Storage Lesion
Authors: Donadee Chenell , Raat Nicolaas J.H. , Kanias Tamir , Tejero Jesús , Lee Janet S. , Kelley Eric E. , Zhao Xuejun , Liu Chen , Reynolds Hannah , Azarov Ivan , Frizzell Sheila , Meyer E. Michael , Donnenberg Albert D. , Qu Lirong , Triulzi Darrel , Kim-Shapiro Daniel B. , Gladwin Mark T.
Published: July 2011

Background—

Intravascular red cell hemolysis impairs nitric oxide (NO)–redox homeostasis, producing endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation, and vasculopathy. Red blood cell storage under standard conditions results in reduced integrity of the erythrocyte membrane, with formation of exocytic microvesicles or microparticles and hemolysis, which we hypothesized could impair vascular function and contribute to the putative storage lesion of banked blood.

Methods and Results—

We now find that storage of human red blood cells under standard blood banking conditions results in the accumulation of cell-free and microparticle-encapsulated hemoglobin, which, despite 39 days of storage, remains in the reduced ferrous oxyhemoglobin redox state and stoichiometrically reacts with and scavenges the vasodilator NO. Using stopped-flow spectroscopy and laser-triggered NO release from a caged NO compound, we found that both free hemoglobin and microparticles react with NO about 1000 times faster than with intact erythrocytes. In complementary in vivo studies, we show that hemoglobin, even at concentrations below 10 μmol/L (in heme), produces potent vasoconstriction when infused into the rat circulation, whereas controlled infusions of methemoglobin and cyanomethemoglobin, which do not consume NO, have substantially reduced vasoconstrictor effects. Infusion of the plasma from stored human red blood cell units into the rat circulation produces significant vasoconstriction related to the magnitude of storage-related hemolysis.

Conclusions—

The results of these studies suggest new mechanisms for endothelial injury and impaired vascular function associated with the most fundamental of storage lesions, hemolysis.
Altered Mitochondrial Dynamics Contributes to Endothelial Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Shenouda Sherene M. , Widlansky Michael E. , Chen Kai , Xu Guoquan , Holbrook Monika , Tabit Corey E. , Hamburg Naomi M. , Frame Alissa A. , Caiano Tara L. , Kluge Matthew A. , Duess Mai-Ann , Levit Aaron , Kim Brian , Hartman Mor-Li , Joseph Lija , Shirihai Orian S. , Vita Joseph A.
Published: July 2011

Background—

Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the development of atherosclerosis in patients with diabetes mellitus, but the mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction in this setting are incompletely understood. Recent studies have shown altered mitochondrial dynamics in diabetes mellitus with increased mitochondrial fission and production of reactive oxygen species. We investigated the contribution of altered dynamics to endothelial dysfunction in diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results—

We observed mitochondrial fragmentation (
P
=0.002) and increased expression of fission-1 protein (Fis1;
P
<0.0001) in venous endothelial cells freshly isolated from patients with diabetes mellitus (n=10) compared with healthy control subjects (n=9). In cultured human aortic endothelial cells exposed to 30 mmol/L glucose, we observed a similar loss of mitochondrial networks and increased expression of Fis1 and dynamin-related protein-1 (Drp1), proteins required for mitochondrial fission. Altered mitochondrial dynamics was associated with increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production and a marked impairment of agonist-stimulated activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and cGMP production. Silencing Fis1 or Drp1 expression with siRNA blunted high glucose–induced alterations in mitochondrial networks, reactive oxygen species production, endothelial nitric oxide synthase activation, and cGMP production. An intracellular reactive oxygen species scavenger provided no additional benefit, suggesting that increased mitochondrial fission may impair endothelial function via increased reactive oxygen species.

Conclusion—

These findings implicate increased mitochondrial fission as a contributing mechanism for endothelial dysfunction in diabetic states.
Detection of Intracoronary Thrombus by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Jansen C.H.P. , Perera D. , Makowski M.R. , Wiethoff A.J. , Phinikaridou A. , Razavi R.M. , Marber M.S. , Greil G.F. , Nagel E. , Maintz D. , Redwood S. , Botnar R.M.
Published: July 2011

Background—

Persistent intracoronary thrombus after plaque rupture is associated with an increased risk of subsequent myocardial infarction and mortality. Coronary thrombus is usually visualized invasively by x-ray coronary angiography. Non–contrast-enhanced T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has been useful for direct imaging of carotid thrombus and intraplaque hemorrhage by taking advantage of the short T1 of methemoglobin present in acute thrombus and intraplaque hemorrhage. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of non–contrast–enhanced MR for direct thrombus imaging (MRDTI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

Eighteen patients (14 men; age, 61±9 years) underwent MRDTI within 24 to 72 hours of presenting with an acute coronary syndrome before invasive x-ray coronary angiography; MRDTI was performed with a T1-weighted, 3-dimensional, inversion-recovery black-blood gradient-echo sequence without contrast administration. Ten patients were found to have intracoronary thrombus on x-ray coronary angiography (left anterior descending, 4; left circumflex, 2; right coronary artery, 4; and right coronary artery–posterior descending artery, 1), and 8 had no visible thrombus. We found that MRDTI correctly identified thrombus in 9 of 10 patients (sensitivity, 91%; posterior descending artery thrombus not detected) and correctly classified the control group in 7 of 8 patients without thrombus formation (specificity, 88%). The contrast-to-noise ratio was significantly greater in coronary segments containing thrombus (n=10) compared with those without visible thrombus (n=131; mean contrast-to-noise ratio, 15.9 versus 2.6;
P
<0.001).

Conclusion—

Use of MRDTI allows selective visualization of coronary thrombus in a patient population with a high probability of intracoronary thrombosis.
Myocardial Perfusion by Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography and Endothelial Dysfunction in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Butt Mehmood , Khair Omer A. , Dwivedi Girish , Shantsila Alena , Shantsila Eduard , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: July 2011

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We investigated myocardial perfusion using real-time quantitative myocardial contrast echocardiography with concurrent assessment of macrovascular and microvascular endothelial dysfunction in normotensive subjects with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, who were compared with hypertensive and healthy subjects, as well as the impact of continuous positive airway pressure treatment on obstructive sleep apnea subjects. We measured flow (hyperemia)-mediated dilation and response to glyceryl trinitrate of brachial artery (ultrasound), cutaneous perfusion responses to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside (laser Doppler), pulse wave velocity, and circulating endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells in a total of 108 subjects (n=36 each of matched obstructive sleep apnea, hypertension, and healthy cohorts). Subjects with obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension demonstrated abnormal myocardial perfusion (
P
<0.001 for both comparisons), attenuated brachial artery reactivity (
P
<0.001), and cutaneous perfusion responses (
P
<0.001) compared with healthy individuals. Both hypertensive and obstructive sleep apnea patients showed significant improvements in myocardial perfusion (
P
<0.01), brachial artery reactivity (
P
<0.001), and cutaneous perfusion responses (
P
<0.001) after 26 weeks of continuous positive airway pressure therapy. There were no significant differences in pulse wave velocity and endothelial cells across the 3 groups. Concomitant endothelial dysfunction and impaired myocardial perfusion are present in otherwise normal subjects with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, and effective continuous positive airway pressure treatment reverses many of these macrovascular/microvascular abnormalities.
Dehydroepiandrosterone-Induced Phosphorylation and Translocation of FoxO1 Depend on the Mineralocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Lindschau Carsten , Kirsch Torsten , Klinge Uwe , Kolkhof Peter , Peters Imke , Fiebeler Anette
Published: July 2011

In humans, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), with its sulfate, is the most abundant adrenal steroid, whereas the rat adrenals are not capable of synthesizing this steroid. Circulating concentrations of DHEA sulfate lie in the millimolar range and those of DHEA in the subnanomolar range. DHEA exerts protective potential during vascular remodeling, although the underlying mechanisms of this protection are imperfectly defined. We hypothesized that physiological doses of DHEA alter signaling pathways that are of central importance for vascular integrity. We exposed human endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and fibroblasts to DHEA (10
−6
to 10
−10
mol/L) and observed a dose- and time-dependent increase of extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 activation. Similar results were observed in rat vascular smooth muscle cells. In addition, in rat vascular smooth muscle cells, we found altered phosphorylation and cellular translocation of the transcription factor FoxO1. Pharmacological blockade of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) with eplerenone or small interfering RNA-mediated MR-silencing prevented DHEA-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation and its effects on FoxO1. Of note, in a cell-based MR transactivation assay, we did not find any agonist effect of DHEA on MR activity. We conclude that DHEA induces early signaling events in vascular cells that might underlie the DHEA-mediated protection against vasculopathies. These effects are dependent on the MR, although the finding that DHEA fails to act as a direct MR agonist suggests that additional signaling proteins are involved. In this regard, DHEA may either interact with coeffectors to modify MR activity or serves as a ligand for a yet unknown receptor that might transactivate the MR.
Effect of Antihypertensive Agents on Blood Pressure Variability
Authors: Zhang Yi , Agnoletti Davide , Safar Michel E. , Blacher Jacques
Published: July 2011

To investigate the effect of different antihypertensive agents on blood pressure (BP) variability (BPV) and the underlying mechanism, we analyzed the ambulatory BP monitoring data of 577 patients before and after 3-month antihypertensive treatment, in the Natrilix SR Versus Candesartan and Amlodipine in the Reduction of Systolic Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients (X-CELLENT) Study, a multicenter, multinational, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 4 parallel treatment arms (placebo, candesartan, indapamide sustained release, and amlodipine). Within-subject mean and SD of 24-hour BP, weighted by time interval between consecutive readings, were calculated in 3 time frames (daytime, nighttime, and 24 hours) to evaluate BP and BPV. The mean 24-hour heart rate (HR) and HR variability were calculated with the same algorithms. We found that the 3 antihypertensive drugs had a similar BP-lowering effect (
P
<0.001 for all), but amlodipine (
P
<0.007) and indapamide sustained release (
P
<0.04) were the only agents associated with a significantly decreased BPV after 3-month treatment. On the other hand, the major determinants of BPV at baseline were age, mean BP, and the corresponding HR variability. However, the reduction in BPV by amlodipine was significantly associated with the reduction in BP (
P
<0.006) and the reduction in HR variability (
P
<0.02), whereas the corresponding reduction by indapamide sustained release was only associated with the reduction in HR variability at night (
P
=0.004). In summary, 3-month amlodipine or indapamide sustained release treatment was associated with a significant reduction in BPV, and the mechanism of those reductions was possibly attributable to lowering BP or ameliorating the autonomic nervous system regulation or both. The combination of the 2 agents might help to optimize such properties.
The Influence of Age and Gender on Preferences for Negative Content and Tabloid Packaging in Television News Stories
Authors: Kleemans Mariska , Hendriks Vettehen Paul G. J. , Beentjes Johannes W. J. , Eisinga Rob
Published: July 2011

This study aimed at answering the question whether preferences for negative content and a tabloid production style in television news stories vary with different age groups and gender. An experiment with 288 participants was conducted. As expected, results showed that age and gender moderated the influence of negative content and tabloid packaging on the viewers’ preferences. Compared with middle-aged and older viewers, young viewers had a stronger preference for negative content rather than neutral content. Preferences for tabloid packaging rather than standard packaging were stronger for men than for women.
Probabilistic load flow calculation with Latin hypercube sampling applied to grid-connected induction wind power system
Authors: Li X , Du DJ , Pei JX , Menhas MI
Published: July 2011

This paper investigates the probabilistic load flow (PLF) calculation with Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) technique for grid-connected induction wind power system. Considering the uncertainties of both loads and wind power outputs, firstly, probabilistic models of main components in wind power generation system are introduced. A combined iterative method for deterministic load flow is then extended to the PLF calculation for grid-connected induction wind power system, which facilitates simultaneous correction for the slip of induction generator and the nodal voltages during all iterations. Furthermore, to overcome the drawback of simple random sampling like excessive time consumption, LHS is combined with Monte Carlo simulation to execute the PLF. Finally, the proposed method is verified by an IEEE 14-bus system modified to include 20 wind turbines. Simulation results confirm the efficiency of the proposed method and reveal the impact of wind farm capacity on PLF results.
Doing it ‘right’ by your parents in Singapore: A political economy examination of the Maintenance of Parents Act of 1995
Authors: Rozario Philip A. , Hong Song-Iee
Published: July 2011

Singapore is expected to experience a demographic revolution in its ageing population in the coming decades. In an effort to deal with this projected burgeoning need, the Singapore Parliament enacted the Maintenance of Parents Act in 1995. The Act legislates the financial responsibility of adult children towards their indigent aged parents. Using archival data, including parliamentary debates, official reports, and print media records, this study examines the Act’s underlying ideologies and cultural assumptions. The authors move beyond the rhetoric of filial piety and draw on the political economy of ageing perspective to uncover the contradictions that are inherent in the Act’s stated and unstated functions. This paper contextualizes the enactment of the Act within the larger governmental goals of nation-building, regime maintenance and wealth accumulation, and notes the Act’s coherence with other governmental ideologies, namely self-reliance and pragmatism.
Energy and greenhouse gas balances for a solid waste incineration plant: a case study
Authors: Brinck Kim , Poulsen Tjalfe G. , Skov Henrik
Published: July 2011

Energy and greenhouse gas balances for a waste incineration plant (Reno–Nord I/S, Aalborg, Denmark) as a function of time over a 45-year period beginning 1960 are presented. The quantity of energy recovered from the waste increased over time due to increasing waste production, increasing lower heating value of the waste and implementation of improved energy recovery technology at the incineration plant. Greenhouse gas (GHG) balances indicated progressively increasing GHG savings during the time period investigated as a result of the increasing energy production. The GHG balances show that the Reno–Nord incineration plant has changed from a net annual GHG emission of 30 kg CO2-eq person−1 year−1 to a net annual GHG saving of 770 kg CO2-eq person−1 year−1 which is equivalent to approximately 8% of the annual emission of GHG from an average Danish person (including emissions from industry and transport). The CO2 emissions associated with combustion of the fossil carbon contained in the waste accounted for about two-thirds of the GHG turnover when no energy recovery is applied but its contribution reduces to between 10 and 15% when energy recovery is implemented. The reason being that energy recovery is associated with a large CO2 saving (negative emission).
A Historical Perspective on the Role of Collaboration in Teacher Education Reform
Authors: Pugach Marleen C. , Blanton Linda P. , Correa Vivian I.
Published: July 2011

This article provides an analysis of how collaborative teacher education has developed in terms of practice, discourse, and the relationship between general and special education across three historical stages. It explores how collaborative teacher education between general and special education has been positioned over time in relationship to larger national reform efforts in teacher education. Approaching the history of collaborative teacher education developmentally from these three perspectives sheds light on how today’s emphasis on collaboration and multiple certifications intersects with what it means to teach in a diverse society and what it means to prepare teachers to meet the needs of every student.
Synthesis of phthalic end-capped copolyimides and their adhesive properties
Authors: Huo Haitao , Mo Song , Sun Hongjie , Yang Shiyong , Fan Lin
Published: July 2011

A series of molecular-weight-controlled aromatic copolyimides based on anhydrides 4,4′-oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA) or/and 2,3,3′,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (α-BPDA) were prepared by polycondensation reaction with mixture of diamines 1,4-bis(4-amino-2-trifluoromethylphenoxy)benzene (6FAPB) and 4,4′-diaminodiphenylsulphone (DDS) in the presence of phthalic anhydride (PA) as end-capping agent. The effect of the chemical structure of the copolyimides on solubility, rheological behavior, thermal stabilities and adhesive properties was investigated. Experimental results suggested that the solubility and thermal properties of copolyimides could be improved by incorporation of asymmetric α-BPDA. The copolyimide TPI-B (α-BPDA/6FAPB-DDS/PA) exhibited better solubility with the solid content as high as 45 wt.% in N, N-dimethylacetamide and high thermal stability with the Tg of 306 °C. TPI-A (ODPA/6FAPB-DDS/PA) and TPI-C (α-BPDA-ODPA/6FAPB-DDS/PA) could be produced into glass-cloth-supported adhesive films. TPI-A adhesive film gave better adhesive properties at room temperature with lap shear strength of 16.41 MPa and T-peel strength of 2.1 kN m−1, which attributed to its flexible structure and good melt processability. TPI-C adhesive film exhibited higher adhesive properties at elevated temperature with the lap shear strength exceeding 9 MPa at 280 °C. The copolyimides with combination of rigid and flexible structures could afford good melt flow behavior and high thermal stability, which yielded good adhesive properties at high temperature.
An experimental investigation of the sensitivity of the ignition and combustion properties of a single-cylinder research engine to spark-assisted HCCI
Authors: Zigler B T , Keros P E , Helleberg K B , Fatouraie M , Assanis D , Wooldridge M S
Published: July 2011

Spark-assisted homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) combustion may be a method to improve the operation of HCCI engines. In the current study, the impact of spark assist on the fundamental properties of ignition and combustion was investigated in a single cylinder, optically-accessible research engine. Early port fuel injection and air preheating were used with indolene fuel in the study. The effects of a range of air preheat ( Tin = 256–281 °C), fuel/air equivalence ratio (ϕ = 0.38–0.62) and spark assist timing (10°−90° before top dead centre) conditions on maximum in-cylinder pressure and timing, cycle variability, indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and heat release rate were investigated. Additionally, high-speed imaging was used to capture the piston-view ignition and combustion events during spark-assisted and unassisted HCCI operation. Methods were developed and applied to the imaging sequences to quantify the physical characteristics (e.g. location of autoignition sites) and the rate of propagation of the reaction fronts formed during spark-assisted and unassisted HCCI operation. The imaging data show that autoignition sites appear with increasing frequency as air preheat temperature is increased. The addition of spark assist led to the formation of reaction fronts at all conditions that propagated outward from the spark electrode at average speeds between 1.9 and 4.3 m/s. The imaging data indicate the effects of spark assist are due to compression heating of the unburned gases by the propagating reaction fronts which also leads to more consistent location of autoignition. Comparison of the imaging and engine data show the initial formation of the reaction fronts are not significant sources of heat release. While the engine data show that spark assist can affect phasing, heat release rate, IMEP and engine stability at the marginal HCCI operating conditions studied, the results also indicate spark assist has a narrow temperature range where the changes will be significant compared to the effects of the inherent thermal stratification of the HCCI fuel/air charge.
Monotherapy with metformin or glimepiride and changes in serum sialic acid in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Inayat Ur Rahman  , Salman Akbar Malik  , Bashir Mohammad , Rooh Ullah Khan  , Idrees Muhammad
Published: July 2011

In a randomised, comparative, parallel group study overweight diet-treated type 2 diabetic patients attending a teaching hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan, were assigned to 12 months of monotherapy with metformin (n=102) or glibenclamide (n=102) to investigate the effects of these agents on serum sialic acid (SSA). Drug treatment significantly improved glycaemic control and metformin treatment also appeared beneficial to other parameters monitored, significantly reducing triglycerides. Throughout the study SSA decreased in both treatment groups and there were no statistically significant differences between the groups. However, in the metformin-treated group SSA at 12 months was significantly lower than at baseline.
Real time continuous glucose monitoring: how does it work in real life?
Authors: Geelhoed-Duijvestijn Petronella H. , Box Fieke , Diamant Michaela , Otoide-Vree Marleen , Van Niel Judith
Published: July 2011

Patients (>90% type 1 diabetes) using real time- continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) for more than 3 months were asked to complete a questionnaire on type and duration of diabetes, self-reported complications, subjective reasons for RT-CGM use, source of payment for RT-CGM, personal income, time on the sensor, but also information such as perceived burden of diabetes, admissions for severe hypoglycaemia or ketoacidosis before and since commencing RT-CGM use. Of the 150 patients supplied with the questionnaire it was completed by 89%. Compliance was high with 77% reporting RT-CGM use ≥75% of the time. The proportion of patients having an HbA1c of ≤7% increased from 33% to 73% (p<0.001). Severe hypoglycaemia and hospital admissions for hypoglycaemia and ketoacidosis also decreased significantly. Patient satisfaction with the device was high. The impact of living with diabetes in daily life improved from 4.1 to 3.4 (p<0.001). The hypoglycaemia alarm was most appreciated.

In summary, we confirm that RT-CGM can be a valuable tool to support patients in the self-management of their type 1 diabetes in real life practice if they are willing and able to use the device at least 75% of the time.
Mapping the Neglected Space
Authors: Dvorkin Assaf Y. , Bogey Ross A. , Harvey Richard L. , Patton James L.
Published: July 2011

Background. Spatial neglect affects perception along different dimensions. However, there is limited availability of 3-dimensional (3D) methods that fully map out a patient’s volume of deficit, although this could guide clinical management. Objective. To test whether patients with neglect exhibit simple contralesional versus complex perceptual deficits and whether deficits are best described using Cartesian (rectangular) or polar coordinates. Methods. Seventeen right-hemisphere persons with stroke (8 with a history of neglect) and 9 healthy controls were exposed to a 3D virtual environment. Targets placed in a dense array appeared one at a time in various locations. Results. When tested using rectangular array of targets, subjects in the neglect group exhibited complex asymmetries across several dimensions in both reaction time and target detection rates. Paper-and-pencil tests only detected neglect in 4 of 8 of these patients. When tested using polar array of targets, 2 patients who initially appeared to perform poorly in both left and near space only showed a simple left-side asymmetry that depended almost entirely on the angle from the sagittal plane. A third patient exhibited left neglect irrespective of the arrangements of targets used. An idealized model with pure dependence on the polar angle demonstrated how such deficits could be misconstrued as near neglect if one uses a rectangular array. Conclusions. Such deficits may be poorly detected by paper-and-pencil tests and even by computerized tests that use regular screens. Assessments that incorporate 3D arrangements of targets enable precise mapping of deficient areas and detect subtle forms of neglect whose identification may be relevant to treatment strategies.
Seeing the Forest From Left to Right
Authors: Suitner Caterina , Giacomantonio Mauro
Published: July 2011

Everyday actions such as writing have been proven to produce consistent mental schemata, which are used to represent social interactions. The preference for depicting the agent of an action to the left of the recipient is known as the spatial agency bias (SAB) and has been related to writing direction. The question which we addressed through two studies is whether the mental construal level (CL) affects this embodied bias. We hypothesized that high-CL (vs. low-CL) priming increases the SAB, as it promotes the use of an abstract mental schema to represent the situation. We found that, when asked to depict two interacting targets, participants in a high-CL condition were more likely to adopt a left-to-right representation (Studies 1 and 2). In contrast, under low-CL, participants were more likely to follow the trajectory suggested by contextual details (Study 2). These findings shed light on boundary conditions for the SAB.
Is sleep apnoea a specialist condition? The role of general practitioners
Authors: Martínez-García M.A. , Catalán Serra P.
Published: July 2011

Educational aims

To identify obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) as a public health problem of the first order that requires involvement at all levels of care, from primary to specialist.

To pay special attention to aspects of OSA less familiar to primary care, particularly its relationship with cardiovascular diseases.

To analyse the expected role of primary care in the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of patients with OSA and its risk factors.

To make clear that treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is not the exclusive domain of specialist care, as many of the problems associated with OSA can be monitored in primary care.

There is no doubt that OSA is a public health problem, on account of its great prevalence and significant negative effects on health, in both the short and long term. These effects stem from the association observed between OSA and traffic and workplace accidents, as well as its association with various cardiovascular pathologies and diseases. The growing number of patients being diagnosed and treated makes it increasingly difficult for specialists to monitor and follow them up on their own. There is therefore a growing need to involve primary care staff in the attention given to these patients. As in the case of other public health problems such as obesity and diabetes, the primary care physician must acquire sufficient knowledge and expertise both to refer a patient with suspected osa to the suitable specialist and to conduct a basic follow-up, regardless of whether the patient has been prescribed treatment with CPAP.
Calcium/calmodulin kinase1 and its relation to thermotolerance and HSP90 in Sporothrix schenckii: an RNAi and yeast two-hybrid study
Authors: Rodriguez-Caban Jorge , Gonzalez-Velazquez Waleska , Perez-Sanchez Lizaida , Gonzalez-Mendez Ricardo , Valle Nuri Rodriguez-del
Published: July 2011

Background

Sporothrix schenckii is a pathogenic dimorphic fungus of worldwide distribution. It grows in the saprophytic form with hyaline, regularly septated hyphae and pyriform conidia at 25°C and as the yeast or parasitic form at 35°C. Previously, we characterized a calcium/calmodulin kinase in this fungus. Inhibitors of this kinase were observed to inhibit the yeast cell cycle in S. schenckii.

Results

The presence of RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism in this fungus was confirmed by the identification of a Dicer-1 homologue in S. schenckii DNA. RNAi technology was used to corroborate the role of calcium/calmodulin kinase I in S. schenckii dimorphism. Yeast cells were transformed with the pSilent-Dual2G (pSD2G) plasmid w/wo inserts of the coding region of the calcium/calmodulin kinase I (sscmk1) gene. Transformants were selected at 35°C using resistance to geneticin. Following transfer to liquid medium at 35°C, RNAi transformants developed as abnormal mycelium clumps and not as yeast cells as would be expected. The level of sscmk1 gene expression in RNAi transformants at 35°C was less than that of cells transformed with the empty pSD2G at this same temperature. Yeast two-hybrid analysis of proteins that interact with SSCMK1 identified a homologue of heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) as interacting with this kinase. Growth of the fungus similar to that of the RNAi transformants was observed in medium with geldanamycin (GdA, 10 μM), an inhibitor of HSP90.

Conclusions

Using the RNAi technology we silenced the expression of sscmk1 gene in this fungus. RNAi transformants were unable to grow as yeast cells at 35°C showing decreased tolerance to this temperature. The interaction of SSCMK1 with HSP90, observed using the yeast two-hybrid assay suggests that this kinase is involved in thermotolerance through its interaction with HSP90. SSCMK1 interacted with the C terminal domain of HSP90 where effector proteins and co-chaperones interact. These results confirmed SSCMK1 as an important enzyme involved in the dimorphism of S. schenckii, necessary for the development of the yeast phase of this fungus. Also this study constitutes the first report of the transformation of S. schenckii and the use of RNAi to study gene function in this fungus.
Regulation of bombesin-stimulated cyclooxygenase-2 expression in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Wen Xiaodong , Chao Celia , Ives Kirk , Hellmich Mark R
Published: July 2011

Background

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and the bombesin (BBS)-like peptide, gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), have been implicated in the progression of hormone-refractory prostate cancer; however, a mechanistic link between the bioactive peptide and COX-2 expression in prostate cells has not been made.

Results

We report that BBS stimulates COX-2 mRNA and protein expression, and the release of prostaglandin E2 from the GRP receptor (GRPR)-positive, androgen-insensitive prostate cancer cell line, PC-3. BBS-stimulated COX-2 expression is mediated, in part, by p38MAPK and PI3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways, and blocked by a GRPR antagonist. The PI3K/Akt pathway couples GRPR to the transcription factor, activator protein-1 (AP-1), and enhanced COX-2 promoter activity. Although BBS stimulates nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) in PC-3, NF-κB does not regulate GRPR-mediated COX-2 expression. The p38MAPK pathway increases BBS-stimulated COX-2 expression by slowing the degradation of COX-2 mRNA. Expression of recombinant GRPR in the androgen-sensitive cell line LNCaP is sufficient to confer BBS-stimulated COX-2 expression via the p38MAPK and PI3K/Akt pathways.

Conclusions

Our study establishes a mechanistic link between GRPR activation and enhanced COX-2 expression in prostate cancer cell lines, and suggests that inhibiting GRPR may, in the future, provide an effective therapeutic alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for inhibiting COX-2 in patients with recurrent prostate cancer.