bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA Profiling Identifies miR‐29 as a Regulator of Disease‐associated Pathways in Experimental Biliary Atresia
Authors: Hand Nicholas J. , Horner Amber M. , Master Zankhana R. , Boateng LaTasha A. , LeGuen Claire , Uvaydova Marina , Friedman Joshua R.
Published: December 2011

Biliary atresia (BA) is a pediatric liver disease of unknown underlying etiology, in which fibroinflammatory destruction of the extrahepatic biliary system leads to obstructive cholestasis. MicroRNAs are a class of short (18–23 nucleotide), noncoding RNA molecules, which act as negative regulators of target mRNA stability and translation. The importance of these molecules in normal and diseased liver has been demonstrated, but their potential role in the pathogenesis of BA has not been addressed. We have profiled changes in liver microRNA levels in an established mouse model of the disease, identified significantly altered transcripts, and defined the spatial expression patterns of selected microRNAs. Two of these, miR‐29a/29b1, are upregulated in experimental BA. Using antisense oligonucleotide‐mediated inhibition in mice, we have delineated the full set of hepatic genes regulated by miR‐29 and identified 2 mRNA targets of potential pathological relevance in experimental BA, Igf1 and Il1RAP. We have used reporter assays to confirm that Igf1 and Il1RAP are direct targets of miR‐29.
Effect of sesquiterpene lactone coronopilin on leukaemia cell population growth, cell type‐specific induction of apoptosis and mitotic catastrophe
Authors: Cotugno R. , Fortunato R. , Santoro A. , Gallotta D. , Braca A. , De Tommasi N. , Belisario M. A.
Published: December 2011

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to investigate anti‐leukaemic potential of coronopilin, a sesquiterpene lactone from Ambrosia arborescens, and to characterize mechanism(s) underlying its activity.

Materials and methods:  The study was conducted on Jurkat and U937, two leukaemia‐derived cell lines. Apoptosis and impairment of cell cycle progression were evaluated by flow cytometry and by microscopic analysis. Changes in protein expression and activation were evaluated by western blot analysis. Coronopilin‐tubulin covalent adducts were demonstrated by mass spectrometry.

Results:  Coronopilin inhibited (IC50 ≤ 20 μm) leukaemia cell population growth, but displayed poor cytotoxicity to normal white blood cells. On Jurkat cells, coronopilin exerted cell population growth inhibition activity, mainly by triggering caspase‐dependent apoptosis. Conversely, in U937 cells, coronopilin’s primary response was a robust arrest in G2/M. Marked increase in mitotic index and presence of activated cyclin B1/Cdk1 complex, phosphorylated histone H3 at Ser10, and hyperpolymerized tubulin indicated that cells accumulated in mitosis. Prolonged mitotic arrest ultimately resulted in U937 mitotic catastrophe, and dying cells exhibited the features of non‐caspase‐dependent death.

Conclusions:  This study demonstrated that coronopilin efficiently inhibited leukaemia cell population growth by triggering cell type‐specific responses. Moreover, coronopilin‐mediated cell population expansion inhibition was specific to neoplastic cells, as normal white blood cell viability was not significantly affected. Thus, coronopilin may represent an interesting new chemical scaffold upon which to develop new anti‐leukaemic agents.
The epidemiology of community paediatric outpatient referrals 2006
Authors: Thompson E. , Ni Bhrolchain C.
Published: December 2011

Background  Wirral University Teaching Hospital is a large district general hospital situated on the Wirral Peninsula, UK. Because of the district's geographical and demographic characteristics, Wirral is an ideal location for population‐based studies. Information on community paediatric referrals, case mix and outcomes is scarce. We took advantage of our situation to conduct an epidemiological study of referrals to community paediatrics in Wirral. A companion paper examines referrals to general paediatricians during the same period.

Methods  A prospective observational study of community paediatric outpatient referrals between 1 February and 31 May 2006 for all children under the age of 15 offered a new patient appointment during the study period. The study was conducted using the same methodology as a previous population‐based study of community paediatric outpatients in Northampton, UK in 1998. We compared our results with this previous study.

Results  The referral rate was 10.1 per 1000 children under 15 per annum. School nurses and health visitors made nearly half the referrals, with general practitioners referring most of the remainder. Compared with the Northampton study, more children were seen by consultants. Case mix showed a shift towards behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders, with less general paediatrics. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was the commonest disorder seen (28.2%), a significant increase from the previous study (3.4%) (P < 0.01). Autism spectrum disorder showed little change (8.1% vs. 9.6%; NS). The Wirral study showed significantly more follow‐up compared with the Northampton.

Conclusions  This population‐based study gives a unique insight into the epidemiology of referrals to community paediatricians in the UK in 2006 and how these differ from those recorded in a different UK district in 1998.
An exploration of the value of social interaction in a boys' group for adolescents with muscular dystrophy
Authors: Parkyn H. , Coveney J.
Published: December 2011

Background/Aim  Engagement in peer‐based social activities is a normal and important aspect of adolescence. Adolescent boys with muscular dystrophy typically lack opportunities for participation in peer‐based recreation and socialization activities. ‘MD Mafia’ is a group which aims to reduce social isolation and offer social and recreational opportunities for adolescent boys with muscular dystrophy. This research is a qualitative exploration of the value of ‘MD Mafia’ and seeks to answer the question: ‘what does the experience of participating in “MD Mafia”, a group for adolescent boys with muscular dystrophy, mean to the boys and their parents’?

Methods  This research sought the views of the boys who participate in MD Mafia and their parents. The sample included seven boys and four mothers. Data collection methods included creative group activities, specifically chosen to match the participants' age, interests and skills, and online data collection. The theoretical perspective of symbolic interactionism guided the theoretical analysis of the data.

Results  Analysis of the data provided a description of the meaning and value of ‘MD Mafia’ from the participants' perspective. MD Mafia has a strong collective identity, which reflects ideals of masculinity and common interests. The group provides much valued opportunity for socialization in a safe and familiar environment, but parents also felt that MD Mafia could offer greater opportunities for skill development by increasing the challenge level of the activities and social environment. The theoretical analysis provides insight into the value of social interactions between participants in a group which has had positive implications for the boys as individuals and for MD Mafia as a group.

Conclusions  The research supports a group model of service delivery for boys with muscular dystrophy and has implications for the development of the group into the future.
Assessing psychosocial well‐being of adolescents: a systematic review of measuring instruments
Authors: Tsang K. L. V. , Wong P. Y. H. , Lo S. K.
Published: December 2011

Background  The paradigm shift from the clinically deficit‐oriented approach to that of educationally strength‐based model in assessing adolescents' psychosocial well‐being has brought about a recent increase in school‐based health promotion and prevention initiatives. This prompted this systematic review of measuring instruments designed to assess psychosocial well‐being of children and adolescents.

Methods  Using electronic databases on Academic Search Premier, MEDLINE, PROQUEST, PsycINFO, CINAHL Plus and Psychosocial and Health Instrument, a systematic review of literature of measuring instruments was conducted from their inception to December 2009 using the keywords of child, emotion, assessment, scale and measure. Measuring instruments from selected articles were critically appraised using a predetermined set of quality indicators which guided the rating of the psychometric properties of the instruments into grades of A, B, and C. The constructs of psychosocial well‐being from the measuring instruments were categorized into themes.

Results  Twenty‐nine out of the 908 articles met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen instruments identified from the selected articles were examined using preset quality indicators. In construct building, the themes identified from the strength‐based instruments distinguished the construct of psychosocial well‐being primarily into the dimensions of personal emotional competency and social functioning. In the ratings of psychometric properties, one instrument was rated 5A, five rated 4A and four rated 3A. For reliability testing, eight measures received grade A when their intraclass correlation is higher than 0.7; whereas only two instruments reported sensitivity and none investigated responsiveness.

Conclusions  Strength‐based measures focusing on social emotional behavioural outcomes open up a possibility to link up assessment with promotion of psychosocial well‐being, away from clinical settings and into adolescents' homes, schools and community. Future research should focus more on investigating the sensitivity and responsiveness of measuring instruments using longitudinal design in efficacy studies to assess change in adolescents' psychosocial status over extended time.
Plankton metabolism and physical forcing in a productive embayment of a large oligotrophic lake: insights from stable oxygen isotopes
Authors: BOCANIOV SERGHEI A. , SCHIFF SHERRY L. , SMITH RALPH E. H.
Published: December 2011

1. The metabolic balance of plankton communities, commonly assessed by the photosynthesis‐to‐respiration ratio (P : R), has received much attention recently in connection with allochthonous organic subsidies to lakes, while the role of physical, climate‐related forces has received less attention.

2. Here we evaluated the effects of wind and upwelling events on plankton metabolism and the potential of stable oxygen isotopes to characterise P, R and P : R on the scales necessary to characterise properly physical forcing effects in large lakes.

3. We measured the 18O/16O ratio of dissolved oxygen and water in a large productive embayment of Lake Ontario (Hamilton Harbour, Canada) and estimated P, R and P : R from the steady state solutions of a widely accepted mass balance model, together with estimates of wind‐driven gas exchange, and compared the results with those from experimental incubations of plankton samples.

4. Estimates of P, but not R, from the isotope model were significantly correlated with bottle estimates while average P : R was similar by both methods. Closer examination of physical forcing events led to a model of how wind events induce mixing, upwelling, exchange and consequent changes in P and R. These physical forcing events were captured more by the isotope model than by the bottle estimates, as episodes of immediately increased R and decreased P : R, with a subsequent stimulation of P.

5. The oxygen isotope approach provided valuable measures of plankton metabolism and helped to characterise more effectively the substantial effects on P : R of physical forcing and, in particular, mixing and exchange events.
U.S. survey of surgical capabilities and experience with surgical procedures in patients with congenital haemophilia with inhibitors
Authors: SHAPIRO A. , COOPER D. L.
Published: December 2011

Summary.  General guidelines exist for the use of recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) to maintain haemostasis during surgery in congenital haemophilia A and B patients with high responding inhibitors (CHwI). Individual surgical plans are required and based upon historical therapy response, adverse events and anticipated procedure. Surgical interventions are feasible, yet it remains unclear how many US hemophilia treatment centres (HTCs) perform procedures in this fragile population. To better understand the US HTC surgical experience in CHwI patients and the number/types of procedures performed, a 21‐question survey was sent to 133 US HTCs, with follow‐up for response clarification and to non‐responders. 98/133 HTCs (74%) responded, with 87 currently treating CHwI patients. In the last decade, 76/85 HTCs performed 994 surgeries on CHwI patients. Sites were experienced in the following procedures: central line insertion/removal (73 HTCs), dental (58), orthopaedic (52), abdominal (23), cardiovascular (14) and otolaryngologic (11). Experience with orthopaedic surgeries included synovectomies – arthroscopic (23 HTCs), radioisotopic (22), and open (7); joint replacement (18); fracture repair (14); and arthrodesis (8). Treatment modalities included rFVIIa bolus (83 HTCs) or continuous infusions (9), plasma‐derived activated prothrombin complex concentrate (pd‐aPCC) (55), antifibrinolytics (51), topical haemostatic agents (29), factor VIII (16) and fibrin sealants (14). Protocols for bypassing agents were used by 31/92 (33%) HTCs. Most US HTCs surveyed care for CHwI patients (74%) and have experience in minor surgery; fewer HTCs reported complex orthopaedic surgical experience. Identification of best practices and surgical barriers is required to guide future initiatives to support these patients.
Optimisation of vacuum frying of gold kiwifruit slices: application of response surface methodology
Authors: Diamante Lemuel M. , Savage Geoffrey P. , Vanhanen Leo
Published: December 2011

Response surface methodology was used to investigate the effects of the level of maltodextrin (MD), frying temperature and time on the moisture, colour and texture properties of the vacuum‐fried gold kiwifruit slices and to determine the optimised conditions for vacuum frying. The moisture content of vacuum‐fried gold kiwifruit slices decreased with increasing frying temperature and frying time. The colour change of the product increased with increasing frying temperature. The browning index of the product increased with increasing frying temperature and frying time. The breaking force of the product gave higher values when processed at middle range of frying temperature and MD level. When processing vacuum‐fried gold kiwifruit slices, there was a need to use frying temperatures of 72.0–76.3 °C, frying times of 35.0–65.0 min and an MD level of 40% to achieve products with acceptable moisture, colour and texture properties.
In vitro bioaccessibility of β‐carotene in dried carrots pretreated by different methods
Authors: Hiranvarachat Bhudsawan , Devahastin Sakamon , Chiewchan Naphaporn
Published: December 2011

The effects of selected pretreatment methods, i.e. soaking in citric acid, blanching in water and blanching in citric acid, as well as hot‐air drying (at 70, 80 and 90 °C), on the retention and relative in vitro bioaccessibility of β‐carotene in dried carrots were investigated. The results indicated that the selected pretreatments and drying could enhance the relative bioaccessibility of β‐carotene in dried carrots. The relative bioaccessibility of β‐carotene in dried carrots increased to 47–73%, while the values in the fresh (13%) and dried untreated (31–47%) carrots were lower. Although significant losses of β‐carotene occurred during both the pretreatment and drying processes, bioaccessible β‐carotene contents of dried pretreated carrots were in a similar order to those of the fresh carrots, indicating the ability and hence the benefit of appropriate pretreatment and drying processes in maintaining the nutritive quality of a food product.
Lesioning of TRPV1 expressing primary afferent neurons prevents PAR‐2 induced motility, but not mechanical hypersensitivity in the rat colon
Authors: Suckow S. K. , Anderson E. M. , Caudle R. M.
Published: December 2011

Background  Proteinase activated receptor 2 (PAR‐2) is expressed by many neurons in the colon, including primary afferent neurons that co‐express transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). Activation of PAR‐2 receptors was previously found to enhance colonic motility, increase secretion and produce hypersensitivity to mechanical stimuli. This study examined the functional role of TRPV1/PAR‐2 expressing neurons that innervate the colon by lesioning TRPV1 bearing neurons with the highly selective and potent TRPV1 agonist resiniferatoxin.

Methods  Colonic motility in response to PAR‐2 activation was evaluated in vitro using isolated segments of descending colon and in vivo using manometry. Colonic mechanical nociceptive thresholds were measured using colorectal distension. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 expressing neurons were selectively lesioned with resiniferatoxin.

Key Results  In vitro, the PAR‐2 agonists, trypsin and SLIGRL did not alter contractions of colon segments when applied alone, however, the agents enhanced acetylcholine stimulated contraction. In vivo, PAR‐2 agonists administered intraluminally induced contractions of the colon and produced hypersensitivity to colorectal distention. The PAR‐2 agonist enhancement of colonic contraction was eliminated when TRPV1 expressing neurons were lesioned with resiniferatoxin, but the PAR‐2 agonist induced hypersensitivity remained in the lesioned animals.

Conclusions & Inferences  Our findings indicate that TRPV1/PAR‐2 expressing primary afferent neurons mediate an extrinsic motor reflex pathway in the colon. These data, coupled with our previous studies, also indicate that the recently described colospinal afferent neurons are nociceptive, suggesting that these neurons may be useful targets for the pharmacological control of pain in diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Grain Yield and Charcoal Rot Resistance Stability in Common Beans under Terminal Drought Conditions
Authors: García‐Olivares Jesus G. , López‐Salinas Ernesto , Cumpián‐Gutiérrez Javier , Cantú‐Almaguer Miguel A. , Zavala‐García Francisco , Mayek‐Pérez Netzahualcoyotl
Published: December 2011

Charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina) is a major disease of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Mexico. The use of germplasm combining high‐yield stability with resistance to drought and charcoal rot could reduce damage from this disease. In this study, we compared the Eberhart and Russell method and the Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) model plus biplot analysis for measuring grain yield (GY) and charcoal rot resistance (CHRR) stabilities in 98 F8 : 10 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between bean adapted to the tropics (BAT) 477 (resistant) × Pinto UI‐114 (susceptible). Experiments were conducted from 2007 to 2009 in Isla, Cotaxtla, Río Bravo and Díaz Ordaz, México, under irrigated or terminal drought conditions. anova detected significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) in GY and CHRR among environments, genotypes and genotype × environment interactions (GEI). Most RILs showed good responses to unfavourable environments based on GY (48) and CHRR (40). AMMI anova s for both traits showed that all sources of variation in the model accounted for approximately 49% of the total squared sum. For the first principal component (PC1), we found 13 RILs that were stable for GY, and for the second (PC2), we found 9 that were stable for GI. For CHRR, we detected 14 stable RILs (PC1) and eight (PC2). Biplot analysis showed the largest vectors for Díaz Ordaz (irrigated and drought, 2008), where the highest and most variable GYs were detected. The shortest vectors were found in Isla (drought, 2007) and Río Bravo (irrigated and drought, 2008), where the lowest and least variable GY were found. We found differential responses of RILs to locations, years and soil humidity conditions as well as significant GEI based on GY and CHRR. The two methods were complementary, and both gave us information to select stable, high‐yield germplasm associated with resistance to charcoal rot disease.
THE EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVE EXCHANGE RATE REGIMES ON REAL EXCHANGE RATE VOLATILITY: EVIDENCE BASED ON A NEW DATASET
Authors: CARRERA JORGE , VULETIN GUILLERMO
Published: December 2011

Do alternative exchange rate regimes affect short‐term real exchange rate volatility differently? The existing empirical evidence is quite mixed with slightly more papers supporting that they do. We show that such lack of consensus is mainly due to current literature limitations regarding the measurement of real exchange rates (RERs), the identification of exchange rate regimes (ERRs), and the control for the incidence of real and nominal shocks. To address these limitations, we construct a novel monthly dataset for 63 countries over the period 1946–2007, which includes market‐determined multilateral RER and a proxy for terms of trade. We find that ERRs indeed affect short‐term real exchange rate volatility differently. While the evidence is generally consistent with Mussa's sticky prices argument, we find that for nonadvanced countries in post‐Bretton Woods there exists a “U‐shape nominal flexibility puzzle of RER.” We also find evidence of a “short‐run RER volatility puzzle.” Having controlled for the incidence of real and nominal shocks, nonadvanced countries' RER volatility remains between 25% and 150% greater than that of the advanced economies. Moreover, the key literature finding that short‐term RER volatility is higher in Bretton Woods (BW) than in post‐Bretton Woods (PBW) for industrialized countries vanishes when using market‐determined multilateral RER instead of official bilateral RER. (JEL F31, F33, F41)
Stress before Consumption: A Proposal to Reform Agency Ratings*
Authors: Woo Sarah Pei
Published: December 2011

The financial turmoil starting in late 2007 has engendered serious criticisms of major credit rating agencies (CRAs), crystallising in a groundbreaking Regulation on CRAs in the EU. This article considers that the Regulation might have failed to take into account a fundamental problem relating to credit ratings—the single, through‐the‐cycle rating system—which probably contributed to the ratings of entities highly sensitive to changes in overall market conditions, including banks and financial institutions, to be vulnerable to cascading ratings downgrades during downturns. The first part of the article analyses the performance of such credit ratings to support the above argument, while the second part explores a proposed solution of moving away from the single rating system to one where ‘standard’ ratings are supplemented by ‘stressed ratings.’ This solution can be based on a public–private partnership where CRAs produce stressed ratings based on scenarios set by regulators—an idea that entails recognition that regulatory efforts in this area ultimately entails a complex balancing of the roles of both the CRAs and regulators as gatekeepers in making safety‐and‐soundness judgements together for global financial markets.
The third described case of transfusion‐transmitted Babesia duncani
Authors: Bloch Evan M. , Herwaldt Barbara L. , Leiby David A. , Shaieb Annette , Herron Ross M. , Chervenak Michael , Reed William , Hunter Robert , Ryals Rosilyn , Hagar Ward , Xayavong Maniphet V. , Slemenda Susan B. , Pieniazek Norman J. , Wilkins Patricia P. , Kjemtrup Anne M.
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Almost all of the reported US tick‐borne and transfusion‐associated Babesia cases have been caused by Babesia microti, which is endemic in the Northeast and upper Midwest. We investigated a case caused by B. duncani (formerly, the WA1‐type parasite), in a 59‐year‐old California resident with sickle cell disease (HbSS) whose only risk factor for infection was receipt of red blood cell transfusions.

CASE REPORT: The patient's case was diagnosed in September 2008: intraerythrocytic parasites were noted on a blood smear, after a several‐month history of increasing transfusion requirements. Molecular and indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) analyses were negative for B. microti but were positive for B. duncani (IFA titer, 1:1024). The complete 18S ribosomal RNA gene of the parasite was amplified from a blood specimen; the DNA sequence was identical to the sequence for the index WA1 parasite isolated in 1991. The patient's case prompted a transfusion investigation: 34 of 38 pertinent blood donors were evaluated, none of whom tested positive by B. microti IFA. The implicated donor—a 67‐year‐old California resident—had a B. duncani titer of 1:4096; B. duncani also was isolated by inoculating jirds (Mongolian gerbils) with a blood specimen from March 2009, more than 10 months after his index donation in April 2008. The patient's case was diagnosed more than 4 months after the implicated transfusion in May 2008.

CONCLUSIONS: This patient had the third documented transfusion case caused by B. duncani. His case underscores the fact that babesiosis can be caused by agents not detected by molecular or serologic analyses for B. microti.
Microcirculation follows macrocirculation in heart and gut in the acute phase of hemorrhagic shock and isovolemic autologous whole blood resuscitation in pigs
Authors: van Iterson Mat , Bezemer Rick , Heger Michal , Siegemund Martin , Ince Can
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: Disparity between the macro‐ and microcirculation is thought to occur as a result of (micro)vascular dysfunction in some types of shock. Whether this occurs during hemorrhagic shock, however, is unknown. We therefore investigated both macro‐ and microcirculatory variables in the heart as a vital organ and the gut as a nonvital organ. We hypothesized that the microcirculation in the gut would follow the macrocirculation in the acute phase of hemorrhagic shock and isovolemic autologous whole blood resuscitation, but that the microcirculation in the heart would be preserved even under conditions of macrocirculatory depression.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Eleven pigs (23 ± 4 kg) were anesthetized and subjected to a controlled hemorrhagic shock (30 and 45% reduction of total blood volume) and isovolemic resuscitation with autologous blood. Quantitative measurement of microvascular oxygen pressures (µpO2) was performed by phosphorimetry on the gut and heart simultaneously. Measurements of systemic hemodynamic and regional oxygen‐derived variables as well as µpO2 were performed at baseline, after the first and second phases of hemorrhage, and after resuscitation.

RESULTS: Five pigs responded to resuscitation, while six pigs died spontaneously within 20 to 30 minutes after reinfusion of the withdrawn blood, without significant differences in macro‐ or microcirculatory variables at baseline and after hemorrhage. Correlation analysis showed that microvascular pO2 in the heart and the gut were closely related to macrocirculatory variables (cardiac index, mean arterial pressure, and oxygen delivery) during hemorrhage and resuscitation.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that the microcirculation in the gut (being a nonvital organ) and heart (being a vital organ) follow the macrocirculation in the acute phase of hemorrhagic shock and isovolemic autologous whole blood resuscitation.
WHAT DOES PHILOSOPHY HAVE TO OFFER EDUCATION, AND WHO SHOULD BE OFFERING IT?
Authors: Wortham Stanton
Published: December 2011

In this review essay Stanton Wortham explores how philosophy of education should both turn inward, engaging with concepts and arguments developed in academic philosophy, and outward, encouraging educational publics to apply philosophical approaches to educational policy and practice. He develops his account with reference to two recent ambitious projects: The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Education, edited by Harvey Siegel, and the two‐volume yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education (NSSE), titled Why Do We Educate? edited by Gary Fenstermacher (series editor), David Coulter and John Wiens (volume 1), and Mark Smylie (volume 2). These two projects initially appear to be opposed, with the Handbook emphasizing elite philosophy and the Yearbook emphasizing public engagement. Wortham argues that each project is in fact more complex, and that they are in some respects complementary. He concludes by making a case against a simple hierarchy of basic and applied knowledge and calling for a more heterogeneous philosophy of education.
Frequencies of MICA alleles in patients from southern Brazil with multibacillary and paucibacillary leprosy
Authors: Sergio do Sacramento W. , Mazini P. S. , Franceschi D. A. S. , de Melo F. C. , Braga M. A. , Sell A. M. , Tsuneto L. T. , Laguila Visentainer J. E.
Published: December 2011

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, which mainly affects the skin and nervous system. The disease has several clinical forms. This study investigated the MICA and HLA‐B genes in 223 samples from leprosy patients and 201 samples from healthy individuals matched for age, gender and ethnical background. Of the patients, 153 had multibacillary, 45 paucibacillary and 25 indeterminate leprosy. The aim of this case–control study was to assess whether the MICA alleles influence susceptibility for leprosy or affect the subtype of the disease in a population of southern Brazil. There were significant differences in frequencies of the MICA*027 allele (4.7% vs 1.8%, P‐value = 0.01, OR = 0.37; 95% CI = 0.16–0.85) between leprosy patients and controls, and of the MICA*010 (4.5% vs 1.6%, P‐value = 0.05, OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.13–0.97) and MICA*027 alleles (4.7% vs 1.3%, P‐value = 0.01; OR = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.09–0.79) between multibacillary leprosy patients and the control group. There were no significant differences in the frequency of MICA alleles between paucibacillary leprosy patients and controls. Thus, the MICA*027 allele is associated with a protective effect for leprosy per se, while the MICA*010 and MICA*027 alleles are associated with protection against multibacillary leprosy, the most severe clinical subtype.
Influence of silane and solvated bonding agents on the bond strength to glass‐fibre posts
Authors: Oliveira Aline S. , Ramalho Elisa S. , Spazzin Aloísio O. , Naves Lucas Z. , Moraes Rafael R.
Published: December 2011

The combined use of silane and solvated bonding agents on the bond strength to glass‐fibre posts was investigated. A model Bis‐GMA/HEMA adhesive was formulated with no solvent, 30% of ethanol or 80% of acetone. The surfaces of rectangular‐shaped posts were silanated or not and one of the agents was applied, except for the control group. Cylinders of resin cement (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE, Saint Paul, MN, USA) were built‐up on the surfaces (n = 20) and submitted to shear testing. All groups showed higher bond strengths when the surfaces were silanated. When no silanization was carried out, the use of bonding agents, either solvated or non‐solvated, increased the bond strengths. All groups treated with both silane and bonding agent showed higher bond strengths than the group that was only silanated. Control and ethanol‐based adhesives were similar, whereas the acetone‐based agent yielded higher bond strengths. Adhesive failures were predominant. Combination of silane and adhesive enhanced the bond to fibre posts.
Self‐Regulation and the Obesity Epidemic
Authors: Herman C. Peter , Polivy Janet
Published: December 2011

The obesity epidemic has provoked considerable concern along with suggestions and demands for corrective measures. After surveying the basic features of the epidemic, we turn our attention to self‐regulation, which is at the heart of most of the proposed solutions to the epidemic. Information, incentives, and most other tactics to get people to eat less and exercise more all rely on self‐regulatory processes. More attention should be paid to the distinction between interventions that depend on individual self‐regulation and interventions that bypass self‐regulation. A detailed examination of self‐regulatory and legislative regulatory alternatives, along with a detailed examination of the causes of the epidemic, leads to the conclusion that we should adopt a cautious and even skeptical approach to intervention. We scrutinize some of the principal proposed solutions to the obesity problem,  few if any of which inspire optimism. The severity of the problem does not justify implementing unproven interventions in the absence of reliable evidence of their effectiveness.
A comparison of correlates of suicidal ideation prior to initial hospitalization for first‐episode psychosis with prior research on correlates of suicide attempts prior to initial treatment seeking
Authors: Flanagan Peggy , Compton Michael T.
Published: December 2011

Aim: Individuals with first‐episode psychosis, like those with chronic psychotic disorders, are at elevated risk for suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. However, relatively little is known about suicidality among first‐episode patients prior to their initial presentation for treatment. This analysis was designed as a US‐based examination of recent findings on prior suicide attempts from Dublin, Ireland, here focusing on prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation during the weeks prior to initial treatment‐seeking.

Methods: Participants included 109 first‐episode inpatients with primary psychotic disorders in public‐sector settings that serve an urban, low‐income, socially disadvantaged, predominantly African American population. Eligible patients had received <3 months of prior antipsychotic treatment and had not been hospitalized for psychosis >3 months prior to the index admission, though most were completely treatment naïve. Assessments included the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia, Birchwood Insight Scale, and a rigorous method for determining age at onset of first psychotic symptoms and duration of untreated psychosis.

Results: Disconcertingly, nearly one quarter of patients (23%) endorsed a history of suicidal ideation in the 2 weeks prior to first admission. In the model designed to replicate the prior study in Ireland, Calgary Depression score (calculated omitting hopelessness and suicidal ideation as these were separate variables in the analysis) was a predictor of suicidal ideation (P < 0.01). In separate bivariate analyses analogous to the original study, two domains of insight were associated with suicidal ideation.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that depression, insight, and suicidality should be carefully monitored among first‐episode patients initiating treatment and during the early course of illness. As insight improves, coping strategies should be enhanced with a goal of minimizing depression and preventing suicidality.
Highly Efficient IGFC Hybrid Power Systems Employing Bottoming Organic Rankine Cycles With Optional Carbon Capture
Authors: Braun R. J. , Kameswaran S. , Yamanis J. , Sun E.
Published: December 2011

This study examines the performance of a solid oxide fuel cell- (SOFC-) based integrated gasification power plant concept at the utility scale (>100 MW). The primary system concept evaluated was a pressurized ∼150 MW SOFC hybrid power system integrated with an entrained-flow, dry-fed, oxygen-blown, slagging coal gasifier and a combined cycle in the form of a gas turbine and an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) power generator. The analyzed concepts include carbon capture via oxy-combustion followed by water knockout and gas compression to pipeline-ready CO2 sequestration conditions. The results of the study indicate that hybrid SOFC systems could achieve electric efficiencies approaching 66% [lower heating value (LHV)] when operating fueled by coal-derived clean syngas and without carbon dioxide capture. The system concept integrates SOFCs with the low-pressure turbine spool of a 50 MW Pratt & Whitney FT8-3 TwinPak gas turbine set and a scaled-up, water-cooled 20 MW version of the Pratt & Whitney (P&W) PureCycle ORC product line (approximately 260 kW). It was also found that a system efficiency performance of about 48% (LHV) is obtained when the system includes entrained-flow gasifier and carbon capture using oxygen combustion. In order to integrate the P&W FT8 into the SOFC system, the high-pressure turbine spool is removed which substantially lowers the FT8 capital cost and increases the expected life of the gas turbine engine. The impact of integrating an ORC bottoming cycle was found to be significant and can add as much as 8 percentage points of efficiency to the system. For sake of comparison, the performance of a higher temperature P&W ORC power system was also investigated. Use of a steam power cycle, in lieu of an ORC, could increase net plant efficiency by another 4%, however, operating costs are potentially much lower with ORCs than steam power cycles. Additionally, the use of cathode gas recycle is strongly relevant to efficiency performance when integrating with bottoming cycles. A parameter sensitivity analysis of the system revealed that SOFC power density is strongly influenced by design cell voltage, fuel utilization, and amount of anode recycle. To maximize the power output of the modified FT8, SOFC fuel utilization should be lower than 70%. Cathode side design parameters, such as pressure drop and temperature rise were observed to only mildly affect efficiency and power density.
Cushing’s Disease Escapes the Knife
Authors: Cheng Mickie
Published: December 2011

The tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib shows promise for treating Cushing’s disease.
Room for Expansion
Authors: Frisk Megan L.
Published: December 2011

A new bioprocess design strategy guides the expansion and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells.
Questions about intimate partner violence should be part of contraceptive counselling: findings from a community-based longitudinal study in Nicaragua
Authors: Salazar Mariano , Valladares Eliette , Högberg Ulf
Published: December 2011

Background and methodology

The study aim was to examine whether exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) was associated with reversible contraceptive use in ever-pregnant partnered women. The authors conducted a longitudinal panel study in León municipality, Nicaragua. At baseline (2002–2003), 478 pregnant women were interviewed and 398 were available for questioning about contraceptive use 40–47 months after childbirth. IPV was assessed at baseline and follow-up, with women classified as never abused, ending abuse, continued abuse or new abuse. Reversible contraceptive use was defined as women using any form of contraception apart from sterilisation. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) were used to assess the association between reversible contraceptive use, IPV patterns and IPV exposures at follow-up.

Results

Eighty percent of the women were not pregnant and with a partner at follow-up. Half were using reversible contraceptives and 28% were sterilised. Women exposed to a continued abuse pattern (AOR 2.50, 95% CI 11.04–5.99), and those exposed to emotional (AOR 2.80, 95% CI 1.32–5.95), physical (AOR 3.60, 95% CI 1.15–11.10) or any IPV at follow-up (AOR 2.59, 95% CI 1.24–5.40) had higher odds of reversible contraceptive use than those not exposed, even after adjusting for demographic factors. No significant differences in the type of reversible contraceptive used were found between women exposed or not to IPV.

Discussion and conclusions

IPV exposure was associated with more reversible contraceptive use. Abuse inquiring at health facilities providing contraceptives should be implemented to identify women exposed to IPV and provide adequate support.
Synthesis and application of Co(salen) complexes containing proximal imidazolium ionic liquid cores
Authors: Sonar Swapnil , Ambrose Kenson , Hendsbee Arthur D. , Masuda Jason D. , Singer Robert D.
Published: December 2011

Ionic ligands derived from a salen ligand containing two proximal 1,3-disubstituted imidazolium ionic liquid cores form cobalt(III) complexes capable of selectively oxidizing veratryl alcohol, a lignin model compound, to veratraldehyde using air as the source of oxygen. These complexes are easy to prepare, inexpensive, water stable, and soluble in ionic liquids, making them viable candidates for use as oxidation catalysts.
Low-temperature (293-60 K) Raman spectra of the crystalline tert-butylisocyanide complexes, Cr(CO)5(CNBu-t) and cis-Cr(CO)4(CNBu-t)2
Authors: Li Honqi , Barsan Mirela M. , Butler Ian S.
Published: December 2011

Low-temperature (293–60 K) Raman spectra have been recorded in the 3500–50 cm–1 region for the crystalline tert-butylisocyanide (CNBu-t) complexes, Cr(CO)5(CNBu-t) (I) and cis-Cr(CO)4(CNBu-t)2 (II). Several of the factor group splittings that are predicted for the νCO, νCN, νCrC, νCrCN and δCrCO modes on the basis of the P21/a (C2h5) (I) and Pccn (D2h10) (II) crystallographic symmetries can be detected at very low temperatures. No phase transitions are observed for either complex throughout the temperature range investigated.
Novel Zn(II) coordination polymer based on 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)hydrazine — From two-dimensional to three-dimensional network
Authors: Wang Huaishan , Szeto Lap , Chan Wesley Ting Kwok , Yeung Ho-Lun , Wong Ka-Leung , Wong Wing-Tak
Published: December 2011

Two MOFs were reported based on Zn(II) with 1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)hydrazine (L1); a two-dimensional interpenetrating MOF I of formula [Zn2(L1)2(L2)2]∞ was formed with terephthalic acid (L2) as an additional linker. A three-dimensional MOF II of formula [Zn2(L1)2(L3)2]∞, was formed with the use of a larger spacer 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid (L3). MOF II consists of large porosity with a total volume of 3746 Å3 that occupies 34.1% of the unit cell.
The role of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) as reducing agents in an MNP-supported Pd–catalyst for the reductive homocoupling of aryl halides
Authors: Zheng Jie , Lin Shengyue , Jiang Bi-Wang , Marder Todd B. , Yang Zhen
Published: December 2011

A palladium pincer catalyst grafted onto the surface of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) has been developed. This material effectively catalyzes the reductive homocoupling of various aryl halide substrates, with the MNP support acting as the reducing agent. The catalyst can be recycled up to five times in the absence of additional reducing agent to give almost quantitative yields of biaryl homocoupling products. After the reducing power of the MNP has been depleted, the supported Pd complex remains an effective catalyst for Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling.
PARENTAL SELF-EMPLOYMENT, START-UP ACTIVITIES AND FUNDING: EXPLORING INTERGENERATIONAL EFFECTS
Authors: BARNIR ANAT , MCLAUGHLIN ERIN
Published: December 2011

In this paper, we compare first generation entrepreneurs with entrepreneurs whose parents were self-employed. To test the hypotheses, we use PSED II data on nascent entrepreneurs to explore the effects of parental self-employment (PSE) on various start-up activities associated with planning and organization, and on funding structure. Overall, results show a difference in patterns of behavior between first generation entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs whose parents were self-employed, supporting the notion of intergenerational learning. Specifically, results indicate a positive relationship between PSE and early deployment of startup activities and a positive relationship between PSE and attaining informal external funding. Post hoc analyses for gender differences show that (a) the relationship between PSE and startup activities exists primarily for men and (b) gender differences exist in the effects of PSE on funding structure: for women, PSE is positively associated with the use of personal savings, whereas for men, PSE is positively associated with use of external informal funding. The results of our findings and their implications are discussed.
Reducing Children's Media Viewing
Authors: Clyne Erin , Jason Leonard A.
Published: December 2011

This case study evaluates the use of a Restrictive aide and the complementary use of parental mediation techniques to reduce media viewing among children. A family was provided a TV Token Timer, which involved a positive reward in exchange for participating in activities outside of watching television. Media viewing habits decreased from the baseline to the completion of the intervention at week 8 for both children. The parent reported high levels of Instructive mediation and positively evaluated the family's use of the TV Token Timer.
A Camera Phone Localised Surface Plasmon Biosensing Platform towards Low-Cost Label-Free Diagnostic Testing
Authors: Roche Philip J. R. , Filion-Côté Sandrine , Cheung Maurice C.-K. , Chodavarapu Vamsy P. , Kirk Andrew G.
Published: December 2011

Developmental work towards a camera phone diagnostic platform applying localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) label-free sensing is presented. The application of spherical gold nanoparticles and nanorods are considered and assessed against ease of application, sensitivity, and practicality for a sensor for the detection of CCL2 (chemokine ligand 2). The sensitivity of the platform is compared with that of a commercial UV/Vis spectrometer. The sensitivity of the camera phone platform is found to be 30% less than that of the commercial system for an equivalent incubation time, but approaches that of the commercial system as incubation time increases. This suggests that the application of LSPR sensing on a portable camera phone devices may be a highly effective label-free approach for point-of-care use as a low-cost diagnostic sensing tool in environments where dedicated equipment is not available.
The Trade in Medicinal Animals in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Felipe Silva , Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , Almeida Waltécio de Oliveira , Alves Rômulo Romeu da Nóbrega
Published: December 2011

Over the centuries, a significant part of the Brazilian fauna is widely sold, more specifically in retail stores or street markets. The objective was to characterize the sale of medicinal animals in five large northeast cities. Information about the sale of zootherapeutic items was obtained in the cities of Aracaju-SE, Fortaleza-CE, Maceio-AL, Recife-PE, and Salvador-BA. A total of 68 animal species were sold for medicinal purposes in the cities studied; these are the first results on the use and sale of zootherapeutics in the markets of Aracaju, Fortaleza, and Salvador and first recorded on the medicinal use of theAchatina fulica, Trachycardium muricatum, Philodryas olfersii, Desmodus rotundus,andLeptodactylus vastus. Knowledge of the fauna utilized popular medicine is indispensable for conservation, demonstrating that research on this subject is necessary to determine appropriate practices for the management of the fauna.
Adaptive State‐Feedback Stabilization for High‐Order Stochastic Nonlinear Systems Driven by Noise of Unknown Covariance
Authors: Zhao Cong-Ran , Xie Xue-Jun , Duan Na
Published: December 2011

This paper further considers more general high‐order stochastic nonlinear system driven by noise of unknown covariance and its adaptive state‐feedback stabilization problem. A smooth state‐feedback controller is designed to guarantee that the origin of the closed‐loop system is globally stable in probability.
Gab Adapter Proteins as Therapeutic Targets for Hematologic Disease
Authors: Verma Sheetal , Vaughan Tamisha , Bunting Kevin D.
Published: December 2011

The Grb-2 associated binder (Gab) family of scaffolding/adaptor/docking proteins is a group of three molecules with significant roles in cytokine receptor signaling. Gabs possess structural motifs for phosphorylation-dependent receptor recruitment, Grb2 binding, and activation of downstream signaling pathways through p85 and SHP-2. In addition, Gabs participate in hematopoiesis and regulation of immune response which can be aberrantly activated in cancer and inflammation. The multifunctionality of Gab adapters might suggest that they would be too difficult to consider as candidates for “targeted” therapy. However, the one drug/one target approach is giving way to the concept of one drug/multiple target approach since few cancers are addicted to a single signaling molecule for survival and combination drug therapies can be problematic. In this paper, we cover recent findings on Gab multi-functionality, binding partners, and their role in hematological malignancy and examine the concept of Gab-targeted therapy.