bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lyrics of National Anthems and Suicide Rates
Authors: Lester David , Gunn John F.
Published: September 2011

The suicide rates of 18 European nations were associated with the proportion of sad words in the lyrics of their national anthems as well as the gloominess of the music. It is suggested that a possible suicide prevention tactic might involve changing the music and lyrics of national anthems.
Recent developments in neuropathology of autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Polšek Dora , Jagatic Tomislav , Cepanec Maja , Hof Patrick , Šimić Goran
Published: September 2011

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent complex neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impairments in reciprocal social interactions, abnormal development and use of language, and monotonously repetitive behaviors. With an estimated heritability of more than 90%, it is the most strongly genetically influenced psychiatric disorder of the young age. In spite of the complexity of this disorder, there has recently been much progress in the research on etiology, early diagnosing, and therapy of autism. Besides already advanced neuropathologic research, several new technological innovations, such as sleep functional MRI, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging (1H-MRS) divulged promising breakthroughs in exploring subtle morphological and neurochemical changes in the autistic brain. This review provides a comprehensive summary of morphological and neurochemical alterations in autism known to date, as well as a short introduction to the functional research that has begun to advance in the last decade. Finally, we mention the progress in establishing new standardized diagnostic measures and its importance in early recognition and treatment of ASD.
Odor identification and cognitive abilities in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tkalčić Mladenka , Spasić Nika , Ivanković Matea , Pokrajac-Bulian Alessandra , Bosanac Daša
Published: September 2011

Research results indicate systemic odor identification deficits in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The aims of this study were: 1) to compare the ability to identify different odors and to compare cognitive status among patients with AD, patients with vascular dementia (VaD) and a comparison group of elderly persons; 2) to test the efficiency of olfactory and neuropsychological measures to classify patients and 3) to relate the odor identification ability with cognitive functioning for each group, respectively. The participants were 15 patients with AD, 11 patients with VaD and 30 non-demented elderly persons, age range 58 to 90. To assess olfactory function, we used the Scandinavian Odor-Identification Test. To assess cognitive functions, we used the Dementia Rating Scale-2, the Clock Drawing Test, the Boston Naming Test and the Category Fluency Test. The ANOVA showed that patients with AD correctly identifed significantly fewer odors presented to them compared to patients with VaD and control group. Patients with AD achieved significantly lower scores on all neuropsychological measures compared to the control group and differ in the DRS-2 total score, initiation/perseveration, constructive and naming abilities comparing to patients with VaD. Discriminant analysis showed that category fluency and olfactory identification were the best predictors of AD. Significant correlations were found between the olfactory and initiation/perseveration, memory and animal naming abilities for patients with AD. Differences among patients with AD, VaD and elderly persons exist in their abilities to identify odors. The findings suggest that olfactory functional testing in combination with memory testing are important.
Natriuretic peptides in brain physiology
Authors: Sinđić Aleksandra , Dobrivojević Marina , Hirsch Jochen
Published: September 2011

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) regulate salt and water homeostasis by inducing natriuresis and diuresis in the kidney. These actions in addition to those via the heart and vascular system play important roles in the regulation of blood pressure. In the central nervous system NPs play a significant role in neuronal development, synaptic transmission and neuroprotection. Currently, six different human NPs have been described: atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), urodilatin (URO, renal natriuretic peptide), brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) as well as guanylin and uroguanylin. ANP, URO and BNP activate the natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPR-A or guanylate cyclase A (GC-A)) while CNP activates natriuretic peptide receptor B (NPR-B or guanylate cyclase B (GC-B)). Guanylin and uroguanylin are known to activate guanylate cyclase C (GC-C). The receptors GC-A, GC-B, and GC-C are widely expressed in the human body. Currently, GC-B and CNP seems to have the highest expression in central nervous system compared to other NPs and their receptors. All known NPs generate intracellular cyclic GMP (cGMP) by activating their specific guanylate cyclase receptors. Subsequently, cGMP is able to activate protein kinase I or II (PKG I or II) and/or directly regulate transmembrane proteins such as ion channels, transporters and pumps. NPs also bind to the natriuretic peptide receptor C (also called clearance receptor NPR-C) which is a major pathway for the degradation of NPs and has no guanylate cyclase activity. In this review we will focus on new insights regarding the physiological effects of NPs in the brain, especially specific areas of their signaling pathways in neurons and glial cells.
Pathology of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis
Authors: Habek Mario , Žarković Kamelija
Published: September 2011

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an acute, monophasic neurologic syndrome that occurs after vaccination against various viruses and after many viral infections and rarely occurs again in the same patient. Weston Hurst disease or acute hemorrhagic encephalomyelitis (AHE) is a hyperacute ADEM variant that shares many pathological similarities with ADEM. ADEM clinically and neuropathologically faithfully reflects the animal model of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), and animal studies have provided us with new insights into pathogenesis of this disorder. Although there is much controversy whether ADEM is a separate disease or just one of possible manifestations of multiple sclerosis, there are clear histopathological characteristics that support ADEM as a separate disease This mini review will focus on pathological characteristics of ADEM emphasizing differences from other types of idiopathic demyelinating diseases.
Reconfigurability analysis for reliable fault-tolerant control design
Authors: Khelassi Ahmed , Theilliol Didier , Weber Philippe
Published: September 2011

Reconfigurability analysis for reliable fault-tolerant control design

In this paper the integration of reliability evaluation in reconfigurability analysis of a fault-tolerant control system is considered. The aim of this work is to contribute to reliable fault-tolerant control design. The admissibility of control reconfigurability is analyzed with respect to reliability requirements. This analysis shows the relationship between reliability and control reconfigurability defined generally through Gramian controllability. An admissible solution for reconfigurability is proposed according to reliability evaluation based on energy consumption under degraded functional conditions. The proposed study is illustrated with a flight control application.
Active fault tolerant control of nonlinear systems: The cart-pole example
Authors: Bonfè Marcello , Castaldi Paolo , Mimmo Nicola , Simani Silvio
Published: September 2011

Active fault tolerant control of nonlinear systems: The cart-pole example

This paper describes the design of fault diagnosis and active fault tolerant control schemes that can be developed for nonlinear systems. The methodology is based on a fault detection and diagnosis procedure relying on adaptive filters designed via the nonlinear geometric approach, which allows obtaining the disturbance de-coupling property. The controller reconfiguration exploits directly the on-line estimate of the fault signal. The classical model of an inverted pendulum on a cart is considered as an application example, in order to highlight the complete design procedure, including the mathematical aspects of the nonlinear disturbance de-coupling method based on the nonlinear differential geometry, as well as the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed approach. Extensive simulations of the benchmark process and Monte Carlo analysis are practical tools for assessing experimentally the robustness and stability properties of the developed fault tolerant control scheme, in the presence of modelling and measurement errors. The fault tolerant control method is also compared with a different approach relying on sliding mode control, in order to evaluate benefits and drawbacks of both techniques. This comparison highlights that the proposed design methodology can constitute a reliable and robust approach for application to real nonlinear processes.
Extracting second-order structures from single-input state-space models: Application to model order reduction
Authors: Guillet Jérôme , Mourllion Benjamin , Birouche Abderazik , Basset Michel
Published: September 2011

Extracting second-order structures from single-input state-space models: Application to model order reduction

This paper focuses on the model order reduction problem of second-order form models. The aim is to provide a reduction procedure which guarantees the preservation of the physical structural conditions of second-order form models. To solve this problem, a new approach has been developed to transform a second-order form model from a state-space realization which ensures the preservation of the structural conditions. This new approach is designed for controllable single-input state-space realizations with real matrices and has been applied to reduce a single-input second-order form model by balanced truncation and modal truncation.
Combined approach for the unification of levelling networks in New Zealand
Authors: Tenzer Robert , Vatrt Viliam , Gan Luzi , Abdalla Ahmed , Dayoub Nadim
Published: September 2011

Combined approach for the unification of levelling networks in New Zealand

The unification of levelling networks in New Zealand is done using a combined approach. It utilises the joint levelling network adjustment and the geopotential-value approach. The levelling and normal gravity data are used for a joint adjustment of the levelling networks at the South and North Islands of New Zealand while fixing the heights of tide gauges in Dunedin and Wellington. The results reveal a good quality of levelling data; the STD of residuals is 2 mm for the whole country. The comparison of the newly determined and original normal-orthometric heights confirms the presence of large local vertical datum offsets and systematic levelling errors. Since the geopotential-value approach is based on the Molodensky's theory, the newly adjusted normal-orthometric heights are converted to the normal heights. This conversion is based on applying the cumulative normal to normal-orthometric height correction computed from levelling and gravity anomaly data. In the absence of the observed gravity data the gravity anomalies along levelling lines are generated fromEGM2008. The GPS-levelling data and EGM2008 are used to estimate the average offsets of the jointly adjusted levelling networks at the North and South Islands with respect to World Height System defined by the adopted geoidal geopotential value of W0 = 62636856 ± 0.5 m2s-2; the estimated offsets are 10.6 cm and 27.5 cm.
Young People's Recognition of Mental Disorders and Beliefs about Treatment and Outcome: Findings from an Australian National Survey
Authors: Reavley Nicola J. , Jorm Anthony F.
Published: September 2011

Objective: The aim of the study was to carry out a national survey in order to assess young people's recognition and beliefs about treatment for depression, anxiety disorders and schizophrenia/psychosis.

Method: In 2011, telephone interviews were carried out with 3021 Australians aged between 15 and 25 years. Participants were presented with a case vignette describing either depression, depression with suicidal thoughts, depression with alcohol misuse, psychosis/schizophrenia, social phobia or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Questions were asked about what was wrong with the person, help-seeking intentions and the likely helpfulness of a broad range of interventions.

Results: Rates of recognition of depression were relatively high, with almost 75% of respondents using the correct label. Rates of recognition for the psychosis (schizophrenia) and PTSD vignettes were similar, with around one third of respondents using the correct labels. Only 3% of respondents were able to correctly label social phobia. Intentions to seek help were highest for depression with suicidal thoughts and lowest for social phobia, with family members nominated the most likely sources of help across all vignettes.

Conclusions: Most young people believe in the importance of seeking professional help and they have good recognition of depression. However, there is still potential for young people's mental health literacy to improve in the areas of recognition and treatment beliefs for all the mental disorders covered in this survey, particularly social phobia which has very low recognition rates and a lower perceived need for treatment.
Reaction to Value Pricing by Different Suburban Populations
Authors: Lowery John , Burris Mark W. , Geiselbrecht Tina , Goodin Ginger
Published: September 2011

Value pricing strategies are beginning to be considered for future improvements in suburban areas that currently do not experience significant congestion but are expected to become congested in the future. This is a significant departure from implementing these strategies in congested urban areas, as is commonly done. Therefore, traveler reaction in these suburban areas is unknown. To plan and design value pricing projects most effectively, requires an understanding of the potential reaction of suburban travelers to value pricing. Responses to a survey of travelers using the eastern and western segments of Interstate 10 (I-10) outside San Antonio, Texas, were used to study differences in response to value pricing by suburban population groups. These surveys collected information on travelers' socioeconomic and trip characteristics, as well as their attitudes toward implementation of value pricing. Overall, the majority of travelers on I-10E and I-10W did not favor the implementation of value pricing for the expansion of these corridors. However, I-10W travelers seemed to be more willing to pay for travel time savings, probably because travelers on I-10W had higher average household incomes, were more likely to use I-10W on a regular basis for commuting, and were more often exposed to some traffic congestion.
Results after treatment of craniopharyngiomas: further experiences with 73 patients since 1997
Authors: Hofmann Bernd M. , Höllig Anke , Strauss Christian , Buslei Rolf , Buchfelder Michael , Fahlbusch Rudolf
Published: September 2011

Object

The authors report surgical and endocrinological results of a series of 73 cases of craniopharyngioma that they treated surgically since 1997 to demonstrate their change in treatment strategy and its effect on outcome compared with a previous series and results reported in the literature.

Methods

A total of 73 patients underwent surgery for craniopharyngiomas between May 1997 and January 2005. In patients with poor clinical or neuropsychological condition, even following pretreatment, only stereotactic cyst aspiration took place (8 cases). In the remaining patients, gross-total resection (GTR) was intended and appeared to be possible. The most frequent approaches were subfrontal (27 cases) and transsphenoidal (26 cases); in some cases, a multistep approach was used. The rate of GTR, complications, and functional outcome (comparing pre- and postoperative endocrine and neuropsychological testing) were evaluated. The mean duration of follow-up was 25.2 months.

Results

Gross-total resection was achieved in 88.5% of cases in which a transsphenoidal approach was used and 79.5% of those in which a transcranial approach was used (85.2% of those in which a subfrontal approach was used and 72.7% of those in which a frontolateral approach was used). In the total series, GTR was achieved in 83.1% of cases (vs 49.3% in the authors' former series). The complication rate was 13.8% without any mortality. New endocrine deficits were observed more frequently in patients treated with transcranial approaches over the years (16.3%–66.7% vs 2.6%–50.0%) but were less frequent after transsphenoidal approaches (5.2%–19.2% vs 2.9%–45.7%).

Conclusions

Open surgery with intended total resection remains the treatment of choice in most patients. Initial stereotactic cyst aspiration or medical pretreatment to improve the patients' condition and adequate choice of surgical approach(es) are essential to achieve that goal. Nevertheless, a moderate increase in endocrinological deficits has to be accepted. The authors recommend using radiotherapy only in cases in which there are tumor remnants or disease progression after surgery.
Hypertonic saline for treating raised intracranial pressure: literature review with meta-analysis
Authors: Mortazavi Martin M. , Romeo Andrew K. , Deep Aman , Griessenauer Christoph J. , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Tubbs R. Shane , Fisher Winfield
Published: September 2011

Object

Currently, mannitol is the recommended first choice for a hyperosmolar agent for use in patients with elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). Some authors have argued that hypertonic saline (HTS) might be a more effective agent; however, there is no consensus as to appropriate indications for use, the best concentration, and the best method of delivery. To answer these questions better, the authors performed a review of the literature regarding the use of HTS for ICP reduction.

Methods

A PubMed search was performed to locate all papers pertaining to HTS use. This search was then narrowed to locate only those clinical studies relating to the use of HTS for ICP reduction.

Results

A total of 36 articles were selected for review. Ten were prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 1 was prospective and nonrandomized, 15 were prospective observational trials, and 10 were retrospective trials. The authors did not distinguish between retrospective observational studies and retrospective comparison trials. Prospective studies were considered observational if the effects of a treatment were evaluated over time but not compared with another treatment.

Conclusions

The available data are limited by low patient numbers, limited RCTs, and inconsistent methods between studies. However, a greater part of the data suggest that HTS given as either a bolus or continuous infusion can be more effective than mannitol in reducing episodes of elevated ICP. A meta-analysis of 8 prospective RCTs showed a higher rate of treatment failure or insufficiency with mannitol or normal saline versus HTS.
Creating High Reliability Teams in Healthcare through In situ Simulation Training
Authors: Riley William , Lownik Elizabeth , Parrotta Carmen , RN Kristi Miller , Davis Stan
Published: September 2011

The importance of teamwork on patient safety in healthcare has been well established. However, the theory and research of healthcare teams are seriously lacking in clinical application. While conventional team theory assumes that teams are stable and leadership is constant, a growing body of evidence indicates that most healthcare teams are unstable and lack constant leadership. For healthcare organizations to reduce error and ensure patient safety, the true nature of healthcare teams must be better understood. This study presents a taxonomy of healthcare teams and the determinants of high reliability in healthcare teams based on a series of studies undertaken over a five-year period (2005–2010).
Measuring Trace Gas Emission from Multi-Distributed Sources Using Vertical Radial Plume Mapping (VRPM) and Backward Lagrangian Stochastic (bLS) Techniques
Authors: Ro Kyoung S. , Johnson Melvin H. , Hunt Patrick G. , Flesch Thomas K.
Published: September 2011

Two micrometeorological techniques for measuring trace gas emission rates from distributed area sources were evaluated using a variety of synthetic area sources. The vertical radial plume mapping (VRPM) and the backward Lagrangian stochastic (bLS) techniques with an open-path optical spectroscopic sensor were evaluated for relative accuracy for multiple emission-source and sensor configurations. The relative accuracy was calculated by dividing the measured emission rate by the actual emission rate; thus, a relative accuracy of 1.0 represents a perfect measure. For a single area emission source, the VRPM technique yielded a somewhat high relative accuracy of 1.38 ± 0.28. The bLS technique resulted in a relative accuracy close to unity, 0.98 ± 0.24. Relative accuracies for dual source emissions for the VRPM and bLS techniques were somewhat similar to single source emissions, 1.23 ± 0.17 and 0.94 ± 0.24, respectively. When the bLS technique was used with vertical point concentrations, the relative accuracy was unacceptably low.
Biocompatibility of Niobium Coatings
Authors: Olivares-Navarrete René , Olaya Jhon Jairo , Ramírez Claudia , Rodil Sandra Elizabeth
Published: September 2011

Niobium coatings deposited by magnetron sputtering were evaluated as a possible surface modification for stainless steel (SS) substrates in biomedical implants. The Nb coatings were deposited on 15 mm diameter stainless steel substrates having an average surface roughness of 2 mm. To evaluate the biocompatibility of the coatings three different in vitro tests, using human alveolar bone derived cells, were performed: cellular adhesion, proliferation and viability. Stainless steel substrates and tissue culture plastic were also studied, in order to give comparative information. No toxic response was observed for any of the surfaces, indicating that the Nb coatings act as a biocompatible, bioinert material. Cell morphology was also studied by immune-fluorescence and the results confirmed the healthy state of the cells on the Nb surface. X-ray diffraction analysis of the coating shows that the film is polycrystalline with a body centered cubic structure. The surface composition and corrosion resistance of both the substrate and the Nb coating were also studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and potentiodynamic tests. Water contact angle measurements showed that the Nb surface is more hydrophobic than the SS substrate.
Fabrication, Modeling and Characterization of Multi-Crosslinked Methacrylate Copolymeric Nanoparticles for Oral Drug Delivery
Authors: Ngwuluka Ndidi C. , Pillay Viness , Choonara Yahya E. , Modi Girish , Naidoo Dinesh , Toit Lisa C. du , Kumar Pradeep , Ndesendo Valence M.K. , Khan Riaz A.
Published: September 2011

Nanotechnology remains the field to explore in the quest to enhance therapeutic efficacies of existing drugs. Fabrication of a methacrylate copolymer-lipid nanoparticulate (MCN) system was explored in this study for oral drug delivery of levodopa. The nanoparticles were fabricated employing multicrosslinking technology and characterized for particle size, zeta potential, morphology, structural modification, drug entrapment efficiency and in vitro drug release. Chemometric Computational (CC) modeling was conducted to deduce the mechanism of nanoparticle synthesis as well as to corroborate the experimental findings. The CC modeling deduced that the nanoparticles synthesis may have followed the mixed triangular formations or the mixed patterns. They were found to be hollow nanocapsules with a size ranging from 152 nm (methacrylate copolymer) to 321 nm (methacrylate copolymer blend) and a zeta potential range of 15.8–43.3 mV. The nanoparticles were directly compressible and it was found that the desired rate of drug release could be achieved by formulating the nanoparticles as a nanosuspension, and then directly compressing them into tablet matrices or incorporating the nanoparticles directly into polymer tablet matrices. However, sustained release of MCNs was achieved only when it was incorporated into a polymer matrix. The experimental results were well corroborated by the CC modeling. The developed technology may be potentially useful for the fabrication of multi-crosslinked polymer blend nanoparticles for oral drug delivery.
Conventional Study on Novel Dicationic Ionic Liquid Inclusion with β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Mohamad Sharifah , Surikumaran Hemavathy , Raoov Muggundha , Marimuthu Tilagam , Chandrasekaram Kumuthini , Subramaniam Puvaneswary
Published: September 2011

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of the inclusion complex of β-Cyclodextrin (β-CD) with dicationic ionic liquid, 3,3'-(1,4-Phenylenebis [methylene]) bis(1-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium) di(bromide) (PhenmimBr). The inclusion complex was prepared at room temperature utilizing conventional kneading technique. Proton (1H) NMR and 2D (1H–1H) COSY NMR were the primary characterization tools employed to verify the formation of the inclusion complex. COSY spectra showed strong correlations between protons of imidazolium and protons of β-CD which indicates that the imidazolium ring of PhenmimBr has entered the cavity of β-CD. UV absorption indicated that β-CD reacts with PhenmimBr to form a 2:1 β-CD-PhenmimBr complex with an apparent formation constant of 2.61 × 105 mol−2 L2. Other characterization studies such as UV, FT-IR, XRD, TGA, DSC and SEM studies were also used to further support the formation of the β-CD-PhenmimBr inclusion complex.
1-{[Benzyl-(2-cyano-ethyl)-amino]-methyl}-5-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylic acid methyl ester
Authors: Herrag Leila , Touzani Rachid , Ramdani Abdelkrim , Hammouti Belkheir
Published: September 2011

The products of aza-type Michael addition, i.e., β-amino carbonyl compounds and their derivatives, are often used as peptide analogs or precursors of optically active amino acids, amino alcohols, diamines, and lactams [1].[...]
4-{[(4-Methylphenyl)imino]methyl}-3-hydroxyphenyl 4-(Hexadecanoyloxy)benzoate
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Yeap Guan-Yeow , Boey Peng-Lim
Published: September 2011

A new Schiff base, 4-{[(4-methylphenyl)imino]methyl}-3-hydroxyphenyl 4-(hexadecanoyloxy)benzoate was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
The Relevance of Marine Chemical Ecology to Plankton and Ecosystem Function: An Emerging Field
Authors: Ianora Adrianna , Bentley Matthew G. , Caldwell Gary S. , Casotti Raffaella , Cembella Allan D. , Engström-Öst Jonna , Halsband Claudia , Sonnenschein Eva , Legrand Catherine , Llewellyn Carole A. , Paldavičienë Aistë , Pilkaityte Renata , Pohnert Georg , Razinkovas Arturas , Romano Giovanna , Tillmann Urban , Vaiciute Diana
Published: September 2011

Marine chemical ecology comprises the study of the production and interaction of bioactive molecules affecting organism behavior and function. Here we focus on bioactive compounds and interactions associated with phytoplankton, particularly bloom-forming diatoms, prymnesiophytes and dinoflagellates. Planktonic bioactive metabolites are structurally and functionally diverse and some may have multiple simultaneous functions including roles in chemical defense (antipredator, allelopathic and antibacterial compounds), and/or cell-to-cell signaling (e.g., polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUAs) of diatoms). Among inducible chemical defenses in response to grazing, there is high species-specific variability in the effects on grazers, ranging from severe physical incapacitation and/or death to no apparent physiological response, depending on predator susceptibility and detoxification capability. Most bioactive compounds are present in very low concentrations, in both the producing organism and the surrounding aqueous medium. Furthermore, bioactivity may be subject to synergistic interactions with other natural and anthropogenic environmental toxicants. Most, if not all phycotoxins are classic secondary metabolites, but many other bioactive metabolites are simple molecules derived from primary metabolism (e.g., PUAs in diatoms, dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) in prymnesiophytes). Producing cells do not seem to suffer physiological impact due to their synthesis. Functional genome sequence data and gene expression analysis will provide insights into regulatory and metabolic pathways in producer organisms, as well as identification of mechanisms of action in target organisms. Understanding chemical ecological responses to environmental triggers and chemically-mediated species interactions will help define crucial chemical and molecular processes that help maintain biodiversity and ecosystem functionality.
Controlled Release of Diclofenac from Matrix Polymer of Chitosan and Oxidized Konjac Glucomannan
Authors: Korkiatithaweechai Suphat , Umsarika Pornpusadee , Praphairaksit Narong , Muangsin Nongnuj
Published: September 2011

The controlled release of diclofenac sodium (DFNa) from a chitosan-oxidized konjac glucomannan (CTS-OKG) polymer film was studied. Konjac glucomannan (KGM) was initially oxidized by sodium periodate and then cross-linked to CTS via imine bonds (–C=N–) to form the new CTS-OKG copolymer. The DFNa loaded CTS-OKG polymers were characterized by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). Finally, the release profiles of DFNa from the CTS-OKG polymer matrices were evaluated in a simulated gastrointestinal fluid system comprised of two hours in simulated gastric fluid (SGF; pH 1.2) followed by 24 h in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF; pH 7.4). A 1:2:1 (w/w/w) ratio of CTS:OKG:DFNa prepared at room temperature for 3 hours gave the highest % encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 95.6 ± 0.6 and resulted in a minimal release of DFNa ( < 1% over 2 h) in SGF (pH 1.2) and a significantly improved sustained release in SIF (pH 7.4) with ~6% and 19% release over 8 and 24 h, respectively), some 15- and five-fold lower than that of the two commercial DFNa preparations, Diclosian and Voltaren. This formulation may be used for further study as a long term intestine controlled release drug model (at least 3 days).
Marine Polysaccharides: A Source of Bioactive Molecules for Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Senni Karim , Pereira Jessica , Gueniche Farida , Delbarre-Ladrat Christine , Sinquin Corinne , Ratiskol Jacqueline , Godeau Gaston , Fischer Anne-Marie , Helley Dominique , Colliec-Jouault Sylvia
Published: September 2011

The therapeutic potential of natural bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, especially glycosaminoglycans, is now well documented, and this activity combined with natural biodiversity will allow the development of a new generation of therapeutics. Advances in our understanding of the biosynthesis, structure and function of complex glycans from mammalian origin have shown the crucial role of this class of molecules to modulate disease processes and the importance of a deeper knowledge of structure-activity relationships. Marine environment offers a tremendous biodiversity and original polysaccharides have been discovered presenting a great chemical diversity that is largely species specific. The study of the biological properties of the polysaccharides from marine eukaryotes and marine prokaryotes revealed that the polysaccharides from the marine environment could provide a valid alternative to traditional polysaccharides such as glycosaminoglycans. Marine polysaccharides present a real potential for natural product drug discovery and for the delivery of new marine derived products for therapeutic applications.
Anti-carcinogenic Effects of the Flavonoid Luteolin
Authors: Seelinger Günter , Merfort Irmgard , Wölfle Ute , Schempp Christoph M.
Published: September 2011

Luteolin is a flavonoid which is part of our daily nutrition in relatively low amounts (less than 1 mg/day). Nevertheless, some epidemiological studies suggest an inverse correlation between luteolin intake and the risk of some cancer types. Luteolin displays specific anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic effects, which can only partly be explained by its anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging capacities. Luteolin can delay or block the development of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo by protection from carcinogenic stimuli, by inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, by induction of cell cycle arrest and by induction of apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic signaling pathways. When compared to other flavonoids, luteolin was usually among the most effective ones, inhibiting tumor cell proliferation with IC50 values between 3 and 50 μM in vitro and in vivo by 5 to 10 mg/kg i.p., intragastric application of 0.1–0.3 mg/kg/d, or as food additive in concentrations of 50 to 200 ppm. Luteolin has been shown to penetrate into human skin, making it also a candidate for the prevention and treatment of skin cancer.
Thermodynamic Study of the Complexation of p-Isopropylcalix[6]arene with Cs+ Cation in Dimethylsulfoxide-Acetonitrile Binary Media
Authors: Ahmadzadeh Saeid , Kassim Anuar , Rezayi Majid , Rounaghi Gholam Hossein
Published: September 2011

The complexation reactions between the macrocyclic ionophore, p-isopropylcalix[6]arene and Cs+ cation were studied in dimethylsulfoxide–acetonitrile (DMSO-AN) binary non-aqueous solvents at different temperatures using a conductometry method. The conductance data show that the stoichiometry of the (p-isopropylcalix[6]-arene·Cs)+ complex in all binary mixed solvents is 1:1. The stability of the complexes is affected by the composition of the binary solvent media and a non-linear behavior was observed for changes of log Kf of the complex versus the composition of the binary mixed solvents. The thermodynamic parameters (DH°c and DS°c) for formation of (p-isopropyl-calix[6]arene·Cs)+ complex were obtained from temperature dependence of the stability constant and the obtained results show that the (p-isopropylcalix[6]arene·Cs)+ complex is enthalpy destabilized, but entropy stabilized, and the values of the mentioned parameters are affected strongly by the nature and composition of the binary mixed solvents.
Overexpression of the Trichoderma brevicompactum tri5 Gene: Effect on the Expression of the Trichodermin Biosynthetic Genes and on Tomato Seedlings
Authors: Tijerino Anamariela , Hermosa Rosa , Cardoza Rosa E. , Moraga Javier , Malmierca Monica G. , Aleu Josefina , Collado Isidro G. , Monte Enrique , Gutierrez Santiago
Published: September 2011

Trichoderma brevicompactum IBT 40841 produces trichodermin, a trichothecene-type toxin that shares most of the steps of its biosynthesis with harzianum A, another trichothecene produced by several Trichoderma species. The first specific step in the trichothecene biosynthesis is carried out by a terpene cylcase, trichodiene synthase, that catalyzes the conversion of farnesyl pyrophosphate to trichodiene and that is encoded by the tri5 gene. Overexpression of tri5 resulted in increased levels of trichodermin production, but also in an increase in tyrosol and hydroxytyrosol production, two antioxidant compounds that may play a regulatory role in trichothecene biosynthesis, and also in a higher expression of three trichothecene genes, tri4, tri6 and tri10, and of the erg1 gene, which participates in the synthesis of triterpenes. The effect of tri5 overexpression on tomato seedling disease response was also studied.
Recombination in Avian Gamma-Coronavirus Infectious Bronchitis Virus
Authors: Thor Sharmi W. , Hilt Deborah A. , Kissinger Jessica C. , Paterson Andrew H. , Jackwood Mark W.
Published: September 2011

Recombination in the family Coronaviridae has been well documented and is thought to be a contributing factor in the emergence and evolution of different coronaviral genotypes as well as different species of coronavirus. However, there are limited data available on the frequency and extent of recombination in coronaviruses in nature and particularly for the avian gamma-coronaviruses where only recently the emergence of a turkey coronavirus has been attributed solely to recombination. In this study, the full-length genomes of eight avian gamma-coronavirus infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) isolates were sequenced and along with other full-length IBV genomes available from GenBank were analyzed for recombination. Evidence of recombination was found in every sequence analyzed and was distributed throughout the entire genome. Areas that have the highest occurrence of recombination are located in regions of the genome that code for nonstructural proteins 2, 3 and 16, and the structural spike glycoprotein. The extent of the recombination observed, suggests that this may be one of the principal mechanisms for generating genetic and antigenic diversity within IBV. These data indicate that reticulate evolutionary change due to recombination in IBV, likely plays a major role in the origin and adaptation of the virus leading to new genetic types and strains of the virus.
Isolation, characterization, and cross‐amplification of microsatellite markers for the Petunia integrifolia (Solanaceae) complex
Authors: Kriedt Raquel A. , Ramos‐Fregonezi Aline M. C. , Beheregaray Luciano B. , Bonatto Sandro L. , Freitas Loreta B.
Published: September 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed for Petunia integrifolia subsp. depauperata with an intent to clarify taxonomic questions on the P. integrifolia complex, and to identify a purple‐flowered parent of P. hybrida.

• Methods and Results: We characterized 11 microsatellite loci by screening primers developed using an SSR‐enriched library. Genotyping of two populations resulted in eight polymorphic loci. Cross‐species transferability was tested for other members of the P. integrifolia complex.

• Conclusions: The development of these markers may contribute to population genetics studies in Petunia, and cross‐amplification among related species could be a useful tool for research on hybridization and introgression.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in Tsoongiodendron odorum (Magnoliaceae)
Authors: Jiang Jinghu , Wang Jing , Kang Ming , Sun Wei , Huang Hongwen
Published: September 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed in Tsoongiodendron odorum, an endangered Magnoliaceae species in subtropical China, for further investigation of its conservation genetics.

• Methods and Results: Using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences Containing repeats (FIASCO) protocol, we isolated and characterized 12 microsatellite loci from T. odorum. Of the samples analyzed, eight were polymorphic and four were monomorphic.

• Conclusions: These characterized markers will enable genetic diversity, gene flow, and mating system studies of T. odorum, which are highly valuable for formulating conservation strategies.
Cyclization of 5-hexynoic acid to 3-alkoxy-2-cyclohexenones
Authors: Hylden Anne T , Uzelac Eric J , Ostojic Zeljko , Wu Ting-Ting , Sacry Keely L , Sacry Krista L , Xi Lin , Jones T Nicholas
Published: September 2011

The one-pot cyclization of 5-hexynoic acid to produce 3-alkoxy-2-cyclohexenones proceeds in good yields (58–90%). 3-Hexynoic acid was converted to its acyl chloride with the aid of oxalyl chloride and was cyclized to 3-chloro-2-cyclohexenone upon addition of indium(III) chloride. Subsequent addition of alcohol nucleophiles led to the desired 3-alkoxy-2-cyclohexenones.
Informative programmes related to the mystery journalism: rubbish TV or informative rigour?
Authors: Berlanga-Fernández Inmaculada
Published: September 2011

In the audiovisual field, mystery journalism has historically been considered as a smaller and disdained gender, reduced to a ridiculous situation by the lack of absolute credibility. Nevertheless, there have been exceptions: in recent years, a group of professionals have approached this kind of journalism with seriousness and passion. The present work analyzes how some of these programs have broken their historic record of audience. It gives, at the same time, the guidelines to teach the audience to distinguish between the disclosure of a junk TV, which should reject, and a rigorous informative material specific of professionals of the information.

Dentro del ámbito audiovisual, el periodismo de misterio ha sido tratado históricamente como un género menor, desdeñado y reducido al ridículo por la falta de credibilidad absoluta ocasionada por la búsqueda del impacto fácil más que del rigor informativo. Sin embargo, ha habido excepciones: en los últimos años existe toda una corriente de profesionales que se acercan a esta clase de periodismo con seriedad, rigor y pasión. El presente trabajo analiza las claves por las que algunos de estos programas han batido marcas históricas de audiencia y han despertado el interés de millones de españoles. Da, a su vez, las pautas para enseñar al público a distinguir entre la divulgación de una telebasura que hay que desechar y un material informativo riguroso propio de profesionales de la información.
Fornix-Based Incision for Strabismus Surgery: The Parks Technique Revisited
Authors: Tan Naomi , Jolly Rohit K. , Jain Saurabh
Published: September 2011

The authors revisit the fornix incision for strabismus surgery. This technique, first developed by Parks in 1968, has key advantages over the limbal incision and ought to be used and taught more commonly. A modified version of this approach is described, illustrated with a demonstration video.
The NF-κB Transcription Factor c-Rel Is Required for Th17 Effector Cell Development in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Chen Guobing , Hardy Kristine , Pagler Eloisa , Ma Lina , Lee Seungsoo , Gerondakis Steve , Daley Stephen , Shannon M. Frances
Published: September 2011

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disease involving effector Th subsets such as Th1 and Th17. In this study, we demonstrate that mice lacking the NF-κB transcription factor family member c-Rel (rel−/−), which are known to be resistant to EAE, show impaired Th17 development. Mixed bone marrow chimeras and EAE adoptive transfer experiments show that the deficiency of effector Th17 cells in rel−/− mice is T cell intrinsic. Consistent with this finding, c-Rel was activated in response to TCR signaling in the early stages of Th17 development and controlled the expression of Rorc, which encodes the Th17 transcription factor retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt. CD28, but not IL-2, repression of Th17 development was dependent on c-Rel, implicating a dual role for c-Rel in modulating Th17 development. Adoptive transfer experiments also suggested that c-Rel control of regulatory T cell differentiation and homeostasis influences EAE development and severity by influencing the balance between Th17 and regulatory T cells. Collectively, our findings indicate that in addition to promoting Th1 differentiation, c-Rel regulates the development and severity of EAE via multiple mechanisms that impact on the generation of Th17 cells.
NO2 observations over the western Pacific and Indian Ocean by MAX-DOAS on Kaiyo, a Japanese research vessel
Authors: Takashima H. , Irie H. , Kanaya Y. , Syamsudin F.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) profile retrievals were performed by ship-borne Multi-Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) using a compact/low-power spectrometer on the Japanese research vessel Kaiyo during two ocean cruises around Japan and Japan-Bali (Indonesia)-Indian Ocean. DOAS analysis using a 425–450 nm fitting window revealed a clear land–ocean contrast in NO2 differential slant column densities (DSCDs) but poor fitting results and negative values, especially at low elevation angles at low latitudes (< ~20° N). The poor fitting resulted in sparse NO2 volume mixing ratio (VMR) data for the 0–1 km layer after applying our vertical profile retrieval method. In contrast, NO2 VMRs retrieved using fitting results from 460–490 nm are positive even at low latitudes, while they are reasonably similar to those obtained from 425–450 nm at mid-latitudes. Because NO2 DSCD for 425–450 nm shows a negative correlation with water vapor (H2O) DSCD, the poor fitting appears to be due primarily to interference by H2O. We analyzed a 338–370 nm fitting window, which is free from H2O, and found good agreement between NO2 VMRs retrieved from 460–490 nm and 338–370 nm, even at low latitudes, at NO2 VMRs higher than ~0.2 ppbv. The results indicate that the background value of NO2 VMR over the western Pacific and Indian Ocean during the cruises was less than ~0.2 ppbv, with occasional enhancement to levels of ~0.2–0.4 ppbv.
Coupling of fog and marine microbial content in the near-shore coastal environment
Authors: Dueker M. E. , O'Mullan G. D. , Weathers K. C. , Juhl A. R. , Uriarte M.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Microbes in the atmosphere (microbial aerosols) play an important role in climate and provide an ecological and biogeochemical connection between oceanic, atmospheric, and terrestrial environments. However, the sources and environmental factors controlling the concentration, diversity, transport, and viability of microbial aerosols are poorly understood. This study examined culturable microbial aerosols from a coastal environment in Maine (USA) and determined the effect of onshore wind speed and fog presence on deposition rate, source, and community composition. During fog events with low onshore winds (< 2 m s−1) the near-shore deposition of microbial aerosols (microbial fallout) decreased with increasing wind speeds, whereas microbial fallout rates under clear conditions and comparable low wind speeds showed no wind speed dependence. Mean aerosol particle size also increased with onshore wind speed when fog was present, indicating increased shoreward transport of larger aerosol particles. 16S rRNA sequencing of culturable ocean surface bacteria and microbial aerosols deposited onshore resulted in the detection of 31 bacterial genera, with 5 dominant genera (Vibrio, Bacillus, Pseudoalteromonas, Psychrobacter, Salinibacterium) making up 66% of all sequences. The microbial aerosol sequence library, as with libraries found in other coastal/marine aerosol studies, was dominated at the phylum level by Proteobacteria, with additional representation from Firmicutes, Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Seventy-five percent of the viable microbial aerosols falling out under foggy conditions were most similar to GenBank-published sequences detected in marine environments. Using a 97% similarity cut-off, ocean surface and fog sequence libraries shared eight operational taxonomic units (OTU's) in total, three of which were the most dominant OTU's in the library, representing large fractions of the ocean (28%) and fog (21%) libraries. The fog and ocean surface libraries were significantly more similar in microbial community composition than clear (non-foggy) and ocean surface libraries, according to both Jaccard and Sorenson indices. These findings provide the first evidence of a difference in community composition and microbial viability (culturability) of aerosols associated with fog compared to clear conditions. The data support a dual role for fog in enhancing the fallout of viable (culturable) microbial aerosols via increased gravitational settling rates and decreased aerosolization stress on the organisms, which may include relief from UV inactivation, desiccation, and oligotrophic microconditions. This study provides a strong case for ocean to terrestrial transport of microbes and a potential connection between water quality and air quality at coastal sites.