bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Before and During Pregnancy and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tobias Deirdre K. , Zhang Cuilin , van Dam Rob M. , Bowers Katherine , Hu Frank B.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is associated with a substantially elevated risk of adverse health outcomes for both mothers and offspring. Physical activity may contribute to the prevention of GDM and thus is crucial for dissecting the vicious circle involving GDM, childhood obesity, and adulthood obesity, and diabetes. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review and synthesize the current evidence on the relation between physical activity and the development of GDM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Reviews were searched from inception to 31 March 2010. Studies assessing the relationship between physical activity and subsequent development of GDM were included. Characteristics including study design, country, GDM diagnostic criteria, ascertainment of physical activity, timing of exposure (prepregnancy or early pregnancy), adjusted relative risks, CIs, and statistical methods were extracted independently by two reviewers.

RESULTS

Our search identified seven prepregnancy and five early pregnancy studies, including five prospective cohorts, two retrospective case-control studies, and two cross-sectional study designs. Prepregnancy physical activity was assessed in 34,929 total participants, which included 2,813 cases of GDM, giving a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 0.45 (95% CI 0.28–0.75) when the highest versus lowest categories were compared. Exercise in early pregnancy was assessed in 4,401 total participants, which included 361 cases of GDM, and was also significantly protective (0.76 [95% CI 0.70–0.83]).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher levels of physical activity before pregnancy or in early pregnancy are associated with a significantly lower risk of developing GDM.
Extraction of centre line from curvilinear objects
Authors: Rokicki J. , Matiukas V. , Ušinskas A. , Adaškevičius R.
Published: September 2010

This tutorial paper surveys three methods designed to detect the centre line in curvilinear structures. These are the iterative thinning, Steger’s and derivatives’ methods. We aim to illustrate the effectivness of the chosen methods for processing laser-trace images and magnetic resonance slices of human head. The essence of each three methods is presented and important parameters are discussed. Experiments have been carried out and results are discussed in the light of the quality of the centre line produced and work time of all three methods.
Properties comparison of GaN epilayers deposited under different growth temperatures
Authors: Wang P. , Yan H. , Cao B. , Wei W. , Gan Z. , Liu S.
Published: September 2010

Undoped GaN epilayers were grown on c-plane sapphire substrates under different growth temperatures by metalorganic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD). The optical and structural characteristics of these grown samples were studied and compared. It was found that the crystalline quality of GaN film deposited at 1050°C was better that of other samples. Photoluminescence spectra showed that the intensities of yellow luminescence band of the samples decreased as the growth temperature increased. All above test results demonstrate that high temperature deposition can serve as a good method for high-quality GaN epilayer growth and there exists an optimal growth temperature.
Embossable grating couplers for planar evanescent wave sensors
Authors: Karasiński P.
Published: September 2010

The paper presents input grating couplers to be applied in planar evanescent wave sensors. Waveguide films SiO2:TiO2 were obtained using the sol-gel method, and grating couplers with a groove density of 1000 g/mm and 2400 g/mm were produced using the method of master grating embossing in sol film. The influence of refractive index of the cover on incoupling angles was presented. Basing on the experimental results, detection limits involving the changes of effective indexes and refractive indexes of the cover for the investigated planar structures were determined. Sensor structures with the couplers having a groove density of 1000 g/mm enable to detect minimum changes of the effective index below 3.3×10−7 and to detect minimum changes of refractive index of the cover below 2.3×10−6. Detection limits for the structures with couplers having the groove density of 2400 g/mm are over twofold higher.
Model analysis of supermode generation in active 5-core optical fibre
Authors: Dorosz D. , Kochanowicz M.
Published: September 2010

In the paper, the phase-locked emitters in multi-core optical fibres for high power fibre lasers are presented. The influence of the normalized frequency and diameters of the cores on the shape of the pattern in the Fraunhofer diffraction region has been analysed. The simulation of coupling coefficient between cores influences on phase-locking and in the consequence on the far-field pattern of the fibre laser, based on the analyzed multi-core optical fibre, were performed. In the analyzed fibre laser, while exchanging power of the generated radiation between two adjacent cores on the fibre length (L = 5 m) within the range of 4–10%, the radiation becomes phased. Having satisfied this condition, in the far-field low-divergence, high-power laser beam (supermode) is attained. 5-core double clad optical fibre doped with neodymium ions was fabricated. Luminescence spectra of the manufactured fibre were measured.
Weak and exact domination in distributed systems
Authors: Afifi Larbi , Magri El , Jai Abdelhaq
Published: September 2010

Weak and exact domination in distributed systems

In this work, we introduce and examine the notion of domination for a class of linear distributed systems. This consists in studying the possibility to make a comparison between input or output operators. We give the main algebraic properties of such relations, as well as characterizations of exact and weak domination. We also study the case of actuators, and various situations are examined. Applications and illustrative examples are also given. By duality, we extend this study to observed systems. We obtain similar results and properties, and the case of sensors is equally examined.
Protector control: Extension to a class of nonlinear distributed systems
Authors: Qaraai Youssef , Bernoussi Abdes
Published: September 2010

Protector control: Extension to a class of nonlinear distributed systems

We present an extension of the protector control scheme introduced for the linear case in a previous work to a class of nonlinear systems. The systems considered are assumed to have a finite propagation velocity while the initial state is subject to a spreading disturbance. We characterize such a control first by using the remediability approach to the resulting nonlinear delay system, and then by coupling families of transformations and the delay approach. To illustrate this work, we provide a simulation example.
Sensor network design for the estimation of spatially distributed processes
Authors: Uciński Dariusz , Patan Maciej
Published: September 2010

Sensor network design for the estimation of spatially distributed processes

In a typical moving contaminating source identification problem, after some type of biological or chemical contamination has occurred, there is a developing cloud of dangerous or toxic material. In order to detect and localize the contamination source, a sensor network can be used. Up to now, however, approaches aiming at guaranteeing a dense region coverage or satisfactory network connectivity have dominated this line of research and abstracted away from the mathematical description of the physical processes underlying the observed phenomena. The present work aims at bridging this gap and meeting the needs created in the context of the source identification problem. We assume that the paths of the moving sources are unknown, but they are sufficiently smooth to be approximated by combinations of given basis functions. This parametrization makes it possible to reduce the source detection and estimation problem to that of parameter identification. In order to estimate the source and medium parameters, the maximum-likelihood estimator is used. Based on a scalar measure of performance defined on the Fisher information matrix related to the unknown parameters, which is commonly used in optimum experimental design theory, the problem is formulated as an optimal control one. From a practical point of view, it is desirable to have the computations dynamic data driven, i.e., the current measurements from the mobile sensors must serve as a basis for the update of parameter estimates and these, in turn, can be used to correct the sensor movements. In the proposed research, an attempt will also be made at applying a nonlinear model-predictive-control-like approach to attack this issue.
Similarity transformation of matrices to one common canonical form and its applications to 2D linear systems
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: September 2010

Similarity transformation of matrices to one common canonical form and its applications to 2D linear systems

The notion of a common canonical form for a sequence of square matrices is introduced. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a similarity transformation reducing the sequence of matrices to the common canonical form are established. It is shown that (i) using a suitable state vector linear transformation it is possible to decompose a linear 2D system into two linear 2D subsystems such that the dynamics of the second subsystem are independent of those of the first one, (ii) the reduced 2D system is positive if and only if the linear transformation matrix is monomial. Necessary and sufficient conditions are established for the existence of a gain matrix such that the matrices of the closed-loop system can be reduced to the common canonical form.
On-line wavelet estimation of Hammerstein system nonlinearity
Authors: Śliwiński Przemysław
Published: September 2010

On-line wavelet estimation of Hammerstein system nonlinearity

A new algorithm for nonparametric wavelet estimation of Hammerstein system nonlinearity is proposed. The algorithm works in the on-line regime (viz., past measurements are not available) and offers a convenient uniform routine for nonlinearity estimation at an arbitrary point and at any moment of the identification process. The pointwise convergence of the estimate to locally bounded nonlinearities and the rate of this convergence are both established.
Probabilities of discrepancy between minima of cross-validation, Vapnik bounds and true risks
Authors: Klęsk Przemysław
Published: September 2010

Probabilities of discrepancy between minima of cross-validation, Vapnik bounds and true risks

Two known approaches to complexity selection are taken under consideration:n-fold cross-validation and structural risk minimization. Obviously, in either approach, a discrepancy between the indicated optimal complexity (indicated as the minimum of a generalization error estimate or a bound) and the genuine minimum ofunknown true risksis possible. In the paper, this problem is posed in a novel quantitative way. We state and prove theorems demonstrating how one can calculate pessimistic probabilities of discrepancy between these minima for given for given conditions of an experiment. The probabilities are calculated in terms of all relevant constants: the sample size, the number of cross-validation folds, the capacity of the set of approximating functions and bounds on this set. We report experiments carried out to validate the results.
Parallel implementation of local thresholding in Mitrion-C
Authors: Kryjak Tomasz , Gorgoń Marek
Published: September 2010

Parallel implementation of local thresholding in Mitrion-C

Mitrion-C based implementations of three image processing algorithms: a look-up table operation, simple local thresholding and Sauvola's local thresholding are described. Implementation results, performance of the design and FPGA logic utilization are discussed.
Numbering action vertices in workflow graphs
Authors: Mann Zoltán
Published: September 2010

Numbering action vertices in workflow graphs

Workflow graphs, consisting of actions, events, and logical switches, are used to model business processes. In order to easily identify the actions within a workflow graph, it is useful to number them in such a way that the numbering reflects the structure of the workflow. However, available tools offer only rudimental numbering schemes. In the paper, a set of natural requirements is defined that a logical numbering should fulfill. It is investigated under what conditions there is an appropriate numbering at all, when it is uniquely defined by the set of requirements, and when it can be computed efficiently. It is shown that for an important special class of workflow graphs, namely, structured workflow graphs, the answer to all these questions is affirmative. For general workflow graphs, a set of requirements is presented that can always be fulfilled, but the numbering is not necessarily unique. An algorithm based on a depth-first search can be used to compute an appropriate numbering efficiently.
A mathematical model of HIV-1 infection including the saturation effect of healthy cell proliferation
Authors: Kouche Mahiéddine , Ainseba Bedr'Eddine
Published: September 2010

A mathematical model of HIV-1 infection including the saturation effect of healthy cell proliferation

In this paper we derive a model describing the dynamics of HIV-1 infection in tissue culture where the infection spreads directly from infected cells to healthy cells trough cell-to-cell contact. We assume that the infection rate between healthy and infected cells is a saturating function of cell concentration. Our analysis shows that if the basic reproduction number does not exceed unity then infected cells are cleared and the disease dies out. Otherwise, the infection is persistent with the existence of an infected equilibrium. Numerical simulations indicate that, depending on the fraction of cells surviving the incubation period, the solutions approach either an infected steady state or a periodic orbit.
Deep brain stimulation in midline thalamic region facilitates synaptic transmission and short-term memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Arrieta-Cruz Isabel , Pavlides Constantine , Pasinetti Giulio
Published: September 2010

Based on evidence suggesting that deep brain stimulation (DBS) may promote certain cognitive processes, we have been interested in developing DBS as a means of mitigating memory and learning impairments in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study we used an animal model of AD (TgCRND8 mice) to determine the effects of high-frequency stimulation (HFS) on non-amyloidogenic α-secretase activity and DBS in short-term memory. We tested our hypothesis using hippocampal slices (in vitro studies) from TgCRND8 mice to evaluate whether HFS increases α-secretase activity (non-amyloidogenic pathway) in the CA1 region. In a second set of experiments, we performed in vivo studies to evaluate whether DBS in midline thalamic region re-establishes hippocampal dependent short-term memory in TgCRND8 mice. The results showed that application of HFS to isolated hippocampal slices significantly increased synaptic plasticity in the CA1 region and promoted a 2-fold increase of non-amyloidogenic α-secretase activity, in comparison to low frequency stimulated controls from TgCRND8 mice. In the in vivo studies, DBS treatment facilitated acquisition of object recognition memory in TgCRND8 mice, in comparison to their own baseline before treatment. These results provide evidence that DBS could enhance short-term memory in the CA1 region of hippocampus in a mouse model of AD.
Neuronal tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH2) in suicidal behaviour
Authors: Štefulj Jasminka , Bordukalo-Nikšić Tatjana
Published: September 2010

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is a signalling molecule involved in many brain functions as well as in a variety of psychiatric conditions, including suicidal behaviour. Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), the rate-limiting enzyme of 5-HT biosynthesis, plays a critical role in 5-HT metabolism and thus in the regulation of 5-HT neurotransmission. There are two isoforms of TPH, so-called peripheral (TPH1) and neuronal (TPH2), encoded by the two distinct genes. TPH1 is abundant in the peripheral tissues, while TPH2 was detected exclusively within the nervous system. Since its discovery in 2003, TPH2 gene has attracted great interest as a potential factor contributing to diathesis of suicidal behaviour. However, initial positive findings indicating an association of TPH2 genetic variants with suicide have not been replicated consistently. Here we provide an overview of published studies to date, that have evaluated the contribution of TPH2 gene to the etiopathogenesis of suicidal behaviour.
C. elegans models of neuromuscular diseases expedite translational research
Authors: Sleigh James , Sattelle David
Published: September 2010

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is a genetic model organism and the only animal with a complete nervous system wiring diagram. With only 302 neurons and 95 striated muscle cells, a rich array of mutants with defective locomotion and the facility for individual targeted gene knockdown by RNA interference, it lends itself to the exploration of gene function at nerve muscle junctions. With approximately 60% of human disease genes having a C. elegans homologue, there is growing interest in the deployment of lowcost, high-throughput, drug screens of nematode transgenic and mutant strains mimicking aspects of the pathology of devastating human neuromuscular disorders. Here we explore the contributions already made by C. elegans to our understanding of muscular dystrophies (Duchenne and Becker), spinal muscular atrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Friedreich’s ataxia, inclusion body myositis and the prospects for contributions to other neuromuscular disorders. A bottleneck to low-cost, in vivo, large-scale chemical library screening for new candidate therapies has been rapid, automated, behavioural phenotyping. Recent progress in quantifying simple swimming (thrashing) movements is making such screening possible and is expediting the translation of drug candidates towards the clinic.
Astrocyte expression of D2-like dopamine receptors in the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Mladinov Mihovil , Mayer Davor , Brčić Luka , Wolstencroft Elizabeth , Man Nguyen , Holt Ian , Hof Patrick , Morris Glenn , Šimić Goran
Published: September 2010

The dopaminergic system is of crucial importance for understanding human behavior and the pathogenesis of many psychiatric and neurological conditions. The majority of studies addressing the localization of dopamine receptors (DR) examined the expression of DR in neurons, while its expression, precise anatomical localization and possible function in glial cells have been largely neglected. Here we examined the expression of D2-like family of DR in neuronal and glial cells in the normal human brain using immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Tissue samples from the right orbitomedial (Brodmann’s areas 11/12), dorsolateral (areas 9/46) and dorsal medial (area 9) prefrontal cortex were taken during autopsy from six subjects with no history of neurological or psychiatric disorders, formalin-fixed, and embedded in paraffin. The sections were stained using novel anti-DRD2, anti-DRD3, and anti-DRD4 monoclonal antibodies. Adjacent sections were labeled with an anti-GFAP (astroglial marker) and an anti-CD68 antibody (macrophage/microglial marker). The pyramidal and non-pyramidal cells of all three regions analyzed had strong expression of DRD2 and DRD4, whereas DRD3 were very weakly expressed. DRD2 were more strongly expressed in layer III compared to layer V pyramidal neurons. In contrast, DRD4 receptors had a stronger expression in layer V neurons. The most conspicuous finding was the strong expression of DRD2, but not DRD3 or DRD4, receptors in the white matter fibrous astrocytes and in layer I protoplasmic astrocytes. Weak DRD2-immunoreactivity was also observed in protoplasmic astrocytes in layers III and V. These results suggest that DR-expressing astrocytes directly participate in dopaminergic transmission of the human prefrontal cortex.
The discovery of the subpial granular layer in the human cerebral cortex
Authors: Judaš Miloš , Pletikos Mihovil
Published: September 2010

The subpial granular layer (SGL) is a transient accumulation of tangentially migrating small granular neurons in the marginal zone of the developing fetal neocortex. It has recently attracted attention as a possible additional source of future cortical interneurons, or even as a putative precursor pool for generation of Cajal-Retzius cells. The discovery of the SGL is generally attributed to Otto Ranke and it is usually claimed that the SGL is specific for human brain. The aim of this review is: (1) to demonstrate that the first to observe SGL in the human cerebral cortex was not Otto Ranke in 1910, but Franz Boll in 1874; (2) to provide an English translation of Ranke’s original description of the SGL and thus demonstrate that he described the SGL in both human and animal brain; and (3) to provide a concise review of current studies concerning the developmental fate and possible functions of the transient fetal SGL.
Transmission of Helicobacter Pylori: A Mystery of Nature
Authors: Das Jagadish C
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bjch.v30i1.6179 Bangladesh J Child Health 2006; VOL 30 (1/2/3): 22-24
Retinopathy of Prematurity - Are We Prepared to Face the Third Epidemic?
Authors: Akter Shaheen , Shirin Mahfuza , Hossain M Monir
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bjch.v30i1.6180 Bangladesh J Child Health 2006; VOL 30 (1/2/3): 25-28
Poland Syndrome with Unusual Associated Anomalies: A Case Report
Authors: Naher Begum Sharifun , Shahidullah Md , Mannan MA , Noor Khaled , Dey Arjun Chandra
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bjch.v30i1.6181 Bangladesh J Child Health 2006; VOL 30 (1/2/3): 29-31
Siblings with Xeroderma Pigmentosum: A Case Report
Authors: Begum Tamanna , Mannan Abdul , Khan Md Shafique Ahmmed , Hossain Shahadat , Ali Ahammed
Published: September 2010

DOI: 10.3329/bjch.v30i1.6182 Bangladesh J Child Health 2006; VOL 30 (1/2/3): 32-35
A Novel Pectin Material: Extraction, Characterization and Gelling Properties
Authors: Urias-Orona Vania , Rascón-Chu Agustin , Lizardi-Mendoza Jaime , Carvajal-Millán Elizabeth , Gardea Alfonso A. , Ramírez-Wong Benjamín
Published: September 2010

A novel pectin was acid extracted from chickpea husk (CHP). CHP presented a 67% (w/w) of galacturonic acid, an intrinsic viscosity of 374 mL/g and a viscosimetric molecular weight of 110 kDa. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum of CHP indicated a degree of esterification of about 10%. The CHP-calcium system formed ionic gels with a storage (G’) modulus of 40 Pa and gel set time (G’ > G’’) of 3 min at 1% (w/v), and a G’ of 131 Pa and gel set time of 1 min at 2% (w/v). The G’ of CHP gels was not greatly affected by temperature. The results attained suggest that chickpea husk can be a potential source of a gelling pectin material.
Effect of Salvianolic Acid b and Paeonol on Blood Lipid Metabolism and Hemorrheology in Myocardial Ischemia Rabbits Induced by Pituitruin
Authors: Yang Qian , Wang Siwang , Xie Yanhua , Wang Jianbo , Li Hua , Zhou Xuanxuan , Liu Wenbo
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine the therapeutic effect of salvianolic acid b and paeonol on coronary disease. The ischemia myocardial animal model is induced by administering pituitrin (20 μg·kg−1) intravenously via the abdominal vein. A combination of salvianolic acid b and paeonol (CSAP) (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg BW) was administrated to experimental rabbits. Biochemical indices were evaluated during six weeks of intervention. We found that the compound of salvianolic acid b and paeonol (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg BW) can markedly and dose-dependently reduce fibrinogen and malonaldehyde levels, increase the HDL level, improve blood viscosity and plasma viscosity in rabbits. In addition, the medicine can still reduce the ratio of NO/ET and the contents of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) in a dose-dependent manner. This study demonstrates that compound of salvianolic acid b and paeonol (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg BW) can improve the blood hemorrheology, decrease oxidative injury and repair the function of blood vessel endothelium, and subsequently prevent the development of Coronary disease.
Molecular Modeling Studies of 4,5-Dihydro-1H-pyrazolo[4,3-h] quinazoline Derivatives as Potent CDK2/Cyclin A Inhibitors Using 3D-QSAR and Docking
Authors: Ai Yong , Wang Shao-Teng , Sun Ping-Hua , Song Fa-Jun
Published: September 2010

CDK2/cyclin A has appeared as an attractive drug targets over the years with diverse therapeutic potentials. A computational strategy based on comparative molecular fields analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) followed by molecular docking studies were performed on a series of 4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazolo[4,3-h]quinazoline derivatives as potent CDK2/cyclin A inhibitors. The CoMFA and CoMSIA models, using 38 molecules in the training set, gave r2cv values of 0.747 and 0.518 and r2 values of 0.970 and 0.934, respectively. 3D contour maps generated by the CoMFA and CoMSIA models were used to identify the key structural requirements responsible for the biological activity. Molecular docking was applied to explore the binding mode between the ligands and the receptor. The information obtained from molecular modeling studies may be helpful to design novel inhibitors of CDK2/cyclin A with desired activity.
Modulation of Huntingtin Toxicity by BAG1 is Dependent on an Intact BAG Domain
Authors: Liman Jan , Sroka Kamila , Dohm Christoph P. , Deeg Sebastian , Bähr Mathias , Kermer Pawel
Published: September 2010

Huntington´s disease, one of the so-called poly-glutamine diseases, is a dominantly inherited movement disorder characterized by formation of cytosolic and nuclear inclusion bodies and progressive neurodegeneration. Recently, we have shown that Bcl-2-associated athanogene-1 (BAG1), a multifunctional co-chaperone, modulates toxicity, aggregation, degradation and subcellular distribution in vitro and in vivo of the disease-specific mutant huntingtin protein. Aiming at future small molecule-based therapeutical approaches, we further analysed structural demands for these effects employing the C-terminal deletion mutant BAGDC. We show that disruption of the BAG domain known to eliminate intracellular heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) binding and activation also precludes binding of Siah-1 thereby leaving nuclear huntingtin translocation unaffected. At the same time BAGDC fails to induce increased proteasomal huntingtin turnover and does not inhibit intracellular huntingtin aggregation, a pre-requisite necessary for prevention of huntingtin toxicity.
Hypericum Perforatum L. Hypericaceae/Guttiferae Sunflower, Olive and Palm Oil Еxtracts Attenuate Cold Restraint Stress – Induced Gastric Lesions
Authors: Arsić Ivana , Žugić Ana , Antić Dušanka Runjajić , Zdunić Gordana , Dekanski Dragana , Marković Goran , Tadić Vanja
Published: September 2010

Three Hypericum perforatum L., Hypericaceae (St. John’s Wort) oil extracts (HPE) were prepared according to the prescriptions from traditional medicine – fresh flowering tops were macerated in three different vegetable oils: sunflower (E1), olive (E2) and palm oil (E3) for 40 days, exposed to the sunlight. The aim of the study was to investigate the gastroprotective activity of the obtained extracts in respect to their quercetin content. HPLC analysis confirmed the presence of quercetin in all of the investigated HPEs, but in different amounts: 15.1, 5.8 and 21.7 μg/mL in E1, E2, and E3, respectively. Gastroprotective activity was evaluated using cold-restraint stress (CRS) induced rat gastric mucosa lesions test. All of the HPEs showed gastroprotective activity, which was close to that achieved by the one of the most studied anti-ulcer flavonoids, quercetin [percentages of inhibition of ulcer index (UI) were 35, 62 and 40 % in E1, E2 and E3, respectively]. Contrary to the lowest quercetin content, HPE prepared with olive oil (E2) offered the highest protection against gastric damaging action of CRS. It may be assumed that this is due to other constituents of E2, which probably play an additional role in complex gastroprotective activity.
Carotenoids from Mangifera Pajang and Their Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Khoo Hock-Eng , Prasad K. Nagendra , Ismail Amin , Mohd-Esa Nohaizan
Published: September 2010

This study provides new data on the various carotenoids found in bambangan (Mangifera pajang Kosterm.) peel and pulp extracts, such as all-trans-α- and β-carotene, cis-β-carotene, 9-cis-β-carotene, and cryptoxanthin. Chemical and biological antioxidant assays were determined to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of bambangan peel and pulp extracts. Bambangan pulp had higher α- and β-carotene contents (7.96 ± 1.53 and 20.04 ± 1.01 mg/100 g) than its peel (4.2 ± 0.14 and 13.09 ± 0.28 mg/100 g); the cryptoxanthin contents of bambangan peel and pulp were 0.60 and 1.18 mg/100 g, respectively. The antioxidant activity results determined by chemical assay using the 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method showed that bambangan peel extract had higher DPPH radical scavenging activity than its pulp. In the biological assays bambangan peel and pulp had protective effects against hemoglobin and LDL oxidation at an extract concentration of 1 ppm. Bambangan peel is a therefore a potential source of natural antioxidants and could be utilized as a functional ingredient.
Synthesis of Lasofoxifene, Nafoxidine and Their Positional Isomers via the Novel Three-Component Coupling Reaction
Authors: Nakata Kenya , Sano Yoshiyuki , Shiina Isamu
Published: September 2010

A Lewis acid-mediated three-component coupling reaction was successfully applied for the synthesis of lasofoxifene (1), nafoxidine (2), and their positional isomers, inv-lasofoxifene (3) and inv-nafoxidine (4). In the presence of HfCl4, the desired one-pot coupling reaction among 4-pivaloyloxybenzaldehyde (5), cinnamyltrimethylsilane (6), and anisole proceeded to afford the corresponding 3,4,4-triaryl-1-butene 7 in high yield. The iodocarbocyclization of the coupling product and the successive elimination of hydrogen iodide forming the olefin part, followed by the migration of the double-bond afforded the common synthetic intermediate of lasofoxifene (1) and nafoxidine (2) via a very concise procedure. Additionally, the syntheses of their positional isomers inv-lasofoxifene (3) and inv-nafoxidine (4) were also achieved through very convenient protocols.
Antiviral Properties of ISG15
Authors: Lenschow Deborah J.
Published: September 2010

The type I interferon system plays a critical role in limiting the spread of viral infection. Viruses induce the production of interferon (IFN), which after binding to the IFN-α/β receptor (IFNAR), and triggering of the JAK/STAT signaling cascade, results in the induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). These ISGs function to inhibit viral replication and to regulate the host immune response. Among these ISGs, the ubiquitin-like molecule, ISG15, is one of the most strongly induced proteins. Similar to ubiquitin, through an IFN induced conjugation cascade, ISG15 is covalently linked to a variety of cellular proteins, suggesting regulation of different cellular processes. Studies performed over the past several years have shown that ISG15 plays a central role in the host’s antiviral response against many viruses. Mice lacking ISG15 display increased susceptibility to multiple viruses. Furthermore, several viruses have developed immune evasion strategies that directly target the ISG15 pathway. Work is now underway to determine the mechanism by which ISG15 functions as an antiviral molecule, such that therapies targeting this pathway can be developed in the future.
Inhibitors of the Hepatitis C Virus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase NS5B
Authors: Powdrill Megan H. , Bernatchez Jean A. , Götte Matthias
Published: September 2010

More than 20 years after the identification of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a novel human pathogen, the only approved treatment remains a combination of pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin. This rather non-specific therapy is associated with severe side effects and by far not everyone benefits from treatment. Recently, progress has been made in the development of specifically targeted antiviral therapy for HCV (STAT-C). A major target for such direct acting antivirals (DAAs) is the HCV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase or non-structural protein 5B (NS5B), which is essential for viral replication. This review will examine the current state of development of inhibitors targeting the polymerase and issues such as the emergence of antiviral resistance during treatment, as well as strategies to address this problem.
Recombinant human TSH versus hypo thyroidism
Authors: Busemeyer S. , Kobe C. , Schmidt M. , Theissen P. , Schicha H. , Dietlein M.
Published: September 2010

The primary aim of this study was to compare pharmacoeconomic effects of hypothyroidism secondary to hormone withdrawal (THW) and recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) for followup WBS in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). The second aim was to determine patients' preference for one procedure or the other. Patients, methods: This retrospective survey included 327 patients with DTC who underwent at least one in-hospital WBS with rhTSH between 1999 and 2006. They had also undergone THW for WBS. Patients received a two-page questionnaire via mail addressing five symptoms and ten items regarding managing their daily life which was answered by 61.6%. The responder group did not differ from the entire group. The medical and societal cost of both procedures for diagnostic WBS was calculated including direct and all ascertainable indirect cost for the reference year 2005. A sensitivity analysis included the German DRG system of 2007 and 2010. Results: After THW, 94% of patients reported hypothyroid symptoms. Using rhTSH, symptoms occurred significantly less. As a result, 97% of patients favored rhTSH over THW. Mean absence from salaried work was 12.3 days after THW compared to 4 days with rhTSH. Family members of salaried employees missed 3 and 0.7 workdays after THW and rhTSH, respectively. Almost twice as often, medical attention was sought after THW (36%) compared to rhTSH (19 %). Undergoing THW, 48% of patients still used their car while hypothyroid. Our cost calculation revealed a slight benefit of about 89.00 Euro in favour of rhTSH stimulation. Conclusion: Hypothyroidism after THW causes significant morbidity and safety risks. The clinical and societal benefits associated with rhTSH are roughly gained at equivalent overall cost to that of THW.
Quantitative variation for apomictic reproduction in the genus Boechera (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Aliyu Olawale M. , Schranz M. Eric , Sharbel Timothy F.
Published: September 2010

• Premise of the study: The evolution of asexual seed production (apomixis) from sexual relatives is a great enigma of plant biology. The genus Boechera is ideal for studying apomixis because of its close relation to Arabidopsis and the occurrence of sexual and apomictic species at low ploidy levels (diploid and triploid). Apomixis is characterized by three components: unreduced embryo‐sac formation (apomeiosis), fertilization‐independent embryogenesis (parthenogenesis), and functional endosperm formation (pseudogamy or autonomous endosperm formation). Understanding the variation in these traits within and between species has been hindered by the laborious histological analyses required to analyze large numbers of samples.

• Methods: To quantify variability for the different components of apomictic seed development, we developed a high‐throughput flow cytometric seed screen technique to measure embryo:endosperm ploidy in over 22000 single seeds derived from 71 accessions of diploid and triploid Boechera.

• Key results: Three interrelated features were identified within and among Boechera species: (1) variation for most traits associated with apomictic seed formation, (2) three levels of apomeiosis expression (low, high, obligate), and (3) correlations between apomeiosis and parthenogenesis/pseudogamy.

• Conclusions: The data presented here provide a framework for choosing specific genotypes for correlations with large “omics” data sets being collected for Boechera to study population structure, gene flow, and evolution of specific traits. We hypothesize that low levels of apomeiosis represent an ancestral condition of Boechera, whereas high apomeiosis levels may have been induced by global gene regulatory changes associated with hybridization.
Low-Grade Spindle-Cell Ameloblastic Carcinoma: Report of an Unusual Case with Immunohistochemical Findings and Review of the Literature
Authors: Jindal C. , Palaskar S. , Kaur H. , Shankari M.
Published: September 2010

Spindle-cell differentiation in ameloblastic carcinoma is a rare event. Although reported by many authors, it was first described as a separate entity in 1999 by Slater under the heading “low-grade spindle-cell ameloblastic carcinoma.” Here, we report a case of low-grade spindle-cell ameloblastic carcinoma arising in pre-existing unicystic ameloblastoma. The patient, a 60-year-old Indian woman, had a large irregular swelling in the left mandibular region. Histologically, the lesion was composed of a large cystic cavity with an ameloblastomatous lining and areas showing spindle-cell proliferation. The spindle cells showed hyperchromatism, nuclear pleomorphism, and scattered mitotic figures. To our knowledge, 6 cases of spindle-cell ameloblastic carcinoma have been published to date, and this case appears to be the first reporting malignant transformation with spindle-cell differentiation in unicystic ameloblastoma.
Personalized Medicine: A Personal View
Authors: Narod S.A.
Published: September 2010

After the discovery of the breast cancer–associated genes BRCA1 in 1994 and BRCA2 in 1995, genetic testing was introduced into clinical practice in North America and Europe[...]
Bevacizumab in Combination with folfiri Chemotherapy in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: An Assessment of Safety and Efficacy in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador
Authors: Dranitsaris G. , Edwards S. , Edwards J. , Leblanc M. , Abbott R.
Published: September 2010

Background: In 2005, bevacizumab was approved by Health Canada for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mcrc). Newfoundland and Labrador was one of the first Canadian provinces to fund this agent in combination with FOLFIRI (irinotecan, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin) chemotherapy. In this analysis, the entire provincial bevacizumab sample for the first 2 years was assessed for overall safety and efficacy. Methods: The medical records of 43 patients with mcrc who had received FOLFIRI with bevacizumab were identified and reviewed. The longitudinal data collection format that was adopted assessed occurrences of adverse events after each cycle of treatment. Toxicity outcomes such as gastrointestinal (GI) perforations, bleeding, diarrhea, myelosuppression, proteinuria, and venous thromboembolic events (VTES) were collected and graded using the U.S. National Cancer Institute’s Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 3.0. Time to treatment failure (TTF) and overall survival (os) were determined using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results: Overall, the 43 study patients received 398 cycles of anticancer therapy (median: 6 cycles; range: 1–24 cycles). No GI perforations were identified. However, 4 bleeding events occurred (9.3%), 3 requiring permanent discontinuation of bevacizumab. Also, 6 grade 3 or 4 VTES occurred (14.0%), 3 of which required a hospital admission. In addition, grades 3 and 4 diarrhea, febrile neutropenia, and proteinuria showed cumulative incidences of 11.6%, 2.3%, and 2.3% respectively. Median TTF was 6.3 months; median os was 24.4 months. Conclusions: Bevacizumab in combination with FOLFIRI appears to be well tolerated, and efficacy is consistent with trial reports. However, patients should be closely monitored to avoid potentially serious events such as bleeding and VTES.
Extraskeletal Myxoid Chondrosarcoma of the Heart and Review of Current Literature
Authors: Geyer H.L. , Karlin N.
Published: September 2010

Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma (EMS) is a rare oncologic phenomenon characterized by chondroid and neurogenic differentiation in extraskeletal locations. These tumours represent fewer than 2.5% of all soft-tissue sarcomas and are most commonly found in the lower extremities, limb girdles, distal extremities, and trunk. Their presence in cardiac tissue is exceedingly unusual; just a single case of EMS metastatic to the heart has been reported, and no cases of primary cardiac EMS are known. Here, we report the case of a 26-year-old man who presented to his physician with a chest wall mass. Further evaluation led to the discovery of a large intracardiac mass with multiple end-organ growths. Complete work-up of this patient included cardiac biopsy, echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron-emission tomography, computed tomography, and fluorescence in situ hybridization studies for the translocation involving the EWSR1 gene locus (22q12). Results of the foregoing studies confirmed the diagnosis of ems, but the origin of this patient’s tumours remains elusive and the contention between a primary cardiac source and cardiac metastasis has yet to be resolved. This article describes the histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and chromosomal aberrations common to ems, together with the common presenting features, natural history, and prognosis.
Clinical Implications of Next-Generation Sequencing for Cancer Medicine
Authors: Shuen A. , Foulkes W. D.
Published: September 2010

In 1976, Peter Nowell, following observations of cytogenetic heterogeneity in a population of cancer-ous cells, proposed that this genetic diversity could be explained by hypothesizing that these cells are subject to evolutionary forces[...]
Endocrine Therapy for Male Breast Cancer: Rates of Toxicity and Adherence
Authors: Visram H. , Kanji F. , Dent S. F.
Published: September 2010

Purpose: Most male breast cancer tumours are hormone receptor–positive; the patients therefore receive endocrine therapy. There is, however, a paucity of published data on toxicities experienced by male breast cancer patients who are prescribed endocrine therapy. In the present study, we examined rates of adherence to and toxicity from endocrine treatments in male breast cancer patients treated at a single institution. Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of male patients diagnosed with breast cancer at The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre during 1981–2003. Data collected included patient age, hormone receptor status, therapy adherence, self-reported toxicities, and type and duration of endocrine therapies. Results: The review located 59 cases of early-stage and metastatic male breast cancer. Median patient age was 68.0 years. Tamoxifen was given to 38 patients (64.4%), anastrozole to 8 (13.6%), and letrozole to 5 (8.5%). Of patients who received endocrine therapy, 10 (25%) received adjuvant systemic chemotherapy. Toxicity was reported by 19 patients taking tamoxifen (50%), with hot flashes being the most common complaint (18.4%). Decreased libido, weight gain, and malaise were reported by 5 patients (13.2%). Rash and erectile dysfunction were reported by 3 patients (7.9%). Increased liver enzymes, pulmonary embolism, superficial thrombophlebitis, myalgia, depression, visual blurring, and loose stools were each reported in 1 patient (2.6%). Tamoxifen therapy was discontinued secondary to toxicity in 9 patients (23.7%). Of the patients treated with anastrozole, 3 (37.5%) reported toxicity, with 1 report each of decreased libido, leg swelling, and depression (12.5%). Toxicity was reported in 2 patients taking letrozole (40%), with both reporting peripheral edema, and 1 reporting hot flashes. No patient discontinued anastrozole or letrozole because of toxicity. Conclusions: Few studies specifically report data on adherence to and toxicities from endocrine therapies in male breast cancer patients. The rate of discontinuation at our institution because of toxicity (23.7%) is similar to that reported in the female breast cancer population. Future prospective studies should explore strategies to improve adherence to endocrine therapy in this population.
Combining Radiation Therapy and Androgen Deprivation for Localized Prostate Cancer—A Critical Review
Authors: Dal Pra A. , Cury F. L. , Souhami L.
Published: September 2010

Interest has been increasing in the use of androgen deprivation therapy (adt) combined with radiation therapy (rt) in the management of localized prostate cancer. Preclinical studies have provided some rationale for the use of this combination. In patients with high-risk disease, the benefit of a combined approach, with the addition of adjuvant hormonal therapy, is supported by results of randomized trials. In contrast, for patients with low-risk disease, there is no obvious therapeutic advantage except for cytoreduction. The usefulness of short-term hormonal therapy in association with rt for intermediate-risk patients is still debatable, particularly in the context of dose-escalated rt. The optimal timing and duration of adt, in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings alike, are still under investigation. In view of the potential side effects with adt, further studies are being performed to better identify subsets of patients who will definitely benefit from this therapy in combination with rt.
Should There Be a Legal Right to Die?
Authors: Benatar D.
Published: September 2010

Imagine a society in which patients are routinely euthanized—whether they want their lives to end or not—if their suffering cannot be alleviated without dulling their consciousness, eliminating their in-dependence, or threatening their dignity.[...]
Zimbabwe in Transition: What About the Local Level?
Authors: Bland Gary
Published: September 2010

The world’s attention has remained focused on critical national events in Zimbabwe as the country has moved from the turmoil of 2008 to the establishment of the current Inclusive Government. In the process, the country’s 90 newly elected local governments have been largely ignored. This brief summarizes our effort to close that informational gap. It provides the results of our extensive research on local governance in Zimbabwe from May to June 2009. Through survey interviews with more than 250 local officials in 15 local authorities, we examined four areas. First, we found that local administration officials are much better educated and more experienced than local elected officials, which has significant ramifications for local governance. Second, we discovered that local officials believe that public participation in local government is strong. However, we found that citizen involvement is actually quite weak. Third, local authorities are doing their best to operate with minimal resources. Financial transfers from the central government dried up long ago, and because of the economic situation, revenue generation is poor. Finally, our research captures the poor state of public services, especially health care and basic infrastructure. We include some ideas for reform and recovery in the conclusion.