bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MAGNETIC PROPERTIES AND CRYSTAL STRUCTURE OF MELT SPUN Sm(Co, M)7 RIBBONS (M = Hf, V, Nb, andTa)
Authors: CHANG H. W. , HSIEH C. C. , GUO Z. H. , HUANG S. T. , CHANG W. C.
Published: December 2009

Magnetic properties and crystal structure of melt spun SmCo 7-x M x ( M = Hf , V , Nb , and Ta ; x = 0–0.3) ribbons have been investigated. The experimental results showed that not just Hf but also V , Nb and Ta prefer to occupy 2e site in the TbCu 7 structure and remarkably increase coercivity of the ribbons from 1.7 kOe for x = 0 to 10–12 kOe for x = 0.2, which would be due to the increase of magnetic anisotropy field by the element substitution. Furthermore, the effect of C addition on the magnetic properties and microstructure of melt spun Sm ( Co , M )7 ribbons were also studied. A small amount of C addition in the ribbons could effectively refine their microstructure, and leads to further improvement of the magnetic properties. The optimal magnetic properties of B r = 6.9 kG , i H c = 11.8 kOe and ( BH ) max = 10.6 MGOe were attained for SmCo 6.8 Hf 0.2 C 0.12 nanocomposites.
DEVELOPMENT OF COPPER SPUTTERING TARGET WITH SUPERIOR SPUTTER YIELD VIA CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC TEXTURE CONTROL ANNEALING
Authors: CHO HOON
Published: December 2009

Copper sputtering target should be developed which has low enough electric resistance for the element that performs high-speed operation for a computer or the like and which is capable of forming a thin film with excellent thickness uniformity. In order to acquire the deposited film thickness uniformity, crystalline orientation has to be controlled because intensified orientation in the (111) plane rather than wholly random orientation produces better film thickness uniformity. In the present study, the Cu sputtering target with average grain size of ~30 µm and un-uniformity of 17% could be archived through an annealing temperature of 0.4 Tm.
Tumor protein D52 expression and Ca2+-dependent phosphorylation modulates lysosomal membrane protein trafficking to the plasma membrane
Authors: Thomas Diana D. H. , Martin Christina L. , Weng Ning , Byrne Jennifer A. , Groblewski Guy E.
Published: December 2009

Tumor protein D52 (also known as CRHSP-28) is highly expressed in multiple cancers and tumor-derived cell lines; however, it is normally abundant in secretory epithelia throughout the digestive system, where it has been implicated in Ca2+-dependent digestive enzyme secretion ( 41 ). Here we demonstrate, using site-specific mutations, that Ca2+-sensitive phosphorylation at serine 136 modulates the accumulation of D52 at the plasma membrane within 2 min of cell stimulation. When expressed in Chinese hamster ovary CHO-K1 cells, D52 colocalized with adaptor protein AP-3, Rab27A, vesicle-associated membrane protein VAMP7, and lysosomal-associated membrane protein LAMP1, all of which are present in lysosome-like secretory organelles. Overexpression of D52 resulted in a marked accumulation of LAMP1 on the plasma membrane that was further enhanced following elevation of cellular Ca2+. Strikingly, mutation of serine 136 to alanine abolished the Ca2+-stimulated accumulation of LAMP1 at the plasma membrane whereas phosphomimetic mutants constitutively induced LAMP1 plasma membrane accumulation independent of elevated Ca2+. Identical results were obtained for endogenous D52 in normal rat kidney and HeLA cells, where both LAMP1 and D52 rapidly accumulated on the plasma membrane in response to elevated cellular Ca2+. Finally, D52 induced the uptake of LAMP1 antibodies from the cell surface in accordance with both the level of D52 expression and phosphorylation at serine 136 demonstrating that D52 altered the plasma membrane recycling of LAMP1-associated secretory vesicles. These findings implicate both D52 expression and Ca2+-dependent phosphorylation at serine 136 in lysosomal membrane trafficking to and from the plasma membrane providing a novel Ca2+-sensitive pathway modulating the lysosome-like secretory pathway.
Nitro-oleic acid protects against endotoxin-induced endotoxemia and multiorgan injury in mice
Authors: Wang Haiping , Liu Haiying , Jia Zhunjun , Olsen Curtis , Litwin Sheldon , Guan Guangju , Yang Tianxin
Published: December 2009

Nitroalkene derivatives of nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2) are endogenous lipid products with potent anti-inflammatory properties in vitro. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the in vivo anti-inflammatory effect of OA-NO2in mice given LPS. Two days before LPS administration, C57BL/6J mice were chronically infused with vehicle (LPS vehicle) or OA-NO2(LPS OA-NO2) at 200 μg·kg−1·day−1via osmotic minipumps; LPS was administered via a single intraperitoneal (ip) injection (10 mg/kg in saline). A third group received an ip injection of saline without LPS or OA-NO2and served as controls. At 18 h of LPS administration, LPS vehicle mice displayed multiorgan dysfunction as evidenced by elevated plasma urea and creatinine (kidney), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT; liver), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and reduced ejection fraction (heart). In contrast, the severity of multiorgan dysfunction was less in LPS OA-NO2animals. The levels of circulating TNF-α and renal TNF-α mRNA expression, together with renal mRNA expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1, and with renal mRNA and protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase 2, and renal cGMP and PGE2contents, were greater in LPS vehicle vs. control mice, but were attenuated in LPS OA-NO2animals. Similar patterns of changes in the expression of inflammatory mediators were observed in the liver. Together, pretreatment with OA-NO2ameliorated the inflammatory response and multiorgan injury in endotoxin-induced endotoxemia in mice.
Representations of Conspecific Song by Starling Secondary Forebrain Auditory Neurons: Toward a Hierarchical Framework
Authors: Meliza C. Daniel , Chi Zhiyi , Margoliash Daniel
Published: December 2009

The functional organization giving rise to stimulus selectivity in higher-order auditory neurons remains under active study. We explored the selectivity for motifs, spectrotemporally distinct perceptual units in starling song, recording the responses of 96 caudomedial mesopallium (CMM) neurons in European starlings ( Sturnus vulgaris) under awake-restrained and urethane-anesthetized conditions. A subset of neurons was highly selective between motifs. Selectivity was correlated with low spontaneous firing rates and high spike timing precision, and all but one of the selective neurons had similar spike waveforms. Neurons were further tested with stimuli in which the notes comprising the motifs were manipulated. Responses to most of the isolated notes were similar in amplitude, duration, and temporal pattern to the responses elicited by those notes in the context of the motif. For these neurons, we could accurately predict the responses to motifs from the sum of the responses to notes. Some notes were suppressed by the motif context, such that removing other notes from motifs unmasked additional excitation. Models of linear summation of note responses consistently outperformed spectrotemporal receptive field models in predicting responses to song stimuli. Tests with randomized sequences of notes confirmed the predictive power of these models. Whole notes gave better predictions than did note fragments. Thus in CMM, auditory objects (motifs) can be represented by a linear combination of excitation and suppression elicited by the note components of the object. We hypothesize that the receptive fields arise from selective convergence by inputs responding to specific spectrotemporal features of starling notes.
Immunohistochemical and Proteomic Evaluation of Nuclear Ubiquitous Casein and Cyclin‐Dependent Kinases Substrate in Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Ziółkowski Piotr , Gamian Elżbieta , Osiecka Beata , Zougman Alexandre , Wiśniewski Jacek R.
Published: December 2009

Nuclear ubiquitous casein and cyclin‐dependent kinases substrate (NUCKS) is 27 kDa chromosomal protein of unknown function. Its amino acid composition as well as structure of its DNA binding domain resembles that of high‐mobility group A, HMGA proteins. HMGA proteins are associated with various malignancies. Since changes in expression of HMGA are considered as marker of tumor progression, it is possible that similar changes in expression of NUCKS could be useful tool in diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer. For identification and analysis of NUCKS we used proteomic and histochemical methods. Analysis of patient‐matched samples of normal and breast cancer by mass spectrometry revealed elevated levels of NUCKS in protein extracts from ductal breast cancers. We elicited specific antibodies against NUCKS and used them for immunohistochemistry in invasive ductal carcinoma of breast. We found high expression of NUCKS in 84.3% of cancer cells. We suggest that such overexpression of NUCKS can play significant role in breast cancer biology.
Dialogue and the Imagination: Reflections by an Indian Christian Artist
Authors: Sahi Jyoti
Published: December 2009

As an Indian Christian artist, I have reflected on Jesus’s dialogue with the Woman at the Well . Here we see the relation of Jesus to cultures beyond the Jewish one. The Biblical text has many layers of meaning. In Indian aesthetics, we learn of the ‘Dhvani’ or ‘implied meaning’ of a text. This implied meaning is discovered by the imagination, and is the basis for a re-interpretation of the text in our modern context of religious diversity, and ecological challenges. Attempts to relate Biblical narratives to images found in other religious traditions such as Hinduism and Buddhism, have sometimes been questioned as being syncretistic. However, a story like that of the woman at the well, has echoes in a similar story to be found in the Buddhist tradition, and in the universal theme of water, and its importance for life.
Odontogenic keratocysts in Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome: a case report
Authors: Mohtasham Nooshin , Nemati Somayyeh , Jamshidi Shokoofeh , Habibi Ataollah , Johari Masume
Published: December 2009

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, a rare autosomal dominant disorder, comprises a number of abnormalities such as multiple nevoid basal cell carcinomas, skeletal abnormalities and multiple odontogenic keratocysts. Considering the rarity of this syndrome, we present a 12-year-old boy affected by this syndrome. He had multiple okcs, calcification of falx cerebri, bifid ribs, frontal bossing and hypertelorism. Characteristic cutaneous manifestation (nevoid basal cell carcinoma) was not present in this patient. The jaw cysts were treated with marsupialization then enucleation. The dental clinician may be the first to encounter and identify this syndrome, when the multiple cystlike radiolucencies are discovered on panoramic view.
A Three-Parameter Binomial Approximation
Authors: Peköz Erol A. , Röllin Adrian , Čekanavičius Vydas , Shwartz Michael
Published: December 2009

We approximate the distribution of the sum of independent but not necessarily identically distributed Bernoulli random variables using a shifted binomial distribution, where the three parameters (the number of trials, the probability of success, and the shift amount) are chosen to match the first three moments of the two distributions. We give a bound on the approximation error in terms of the total variation metric using Stein's method. A numerical study is discussed that shows shifted binomial approximations are typically more accurate than Poisson or standard binomial approximations. The application of the approximation to solving a problem arising in Bayesian hierarchical modeling is also discussed.
Optimal Stopping for Processes with Independent Increments, and Applications
Authors: Deligiannidis G. , Le H. , Utev S.
Published: December 2009

In this paper we present an explicit solution to the infinite-horizon optimal stopping problem for processes with stationary independent increments, where reward functions admit a certain representation in terms of the process at a random time. It is shown that it is optimal to stop at the first time the process crosses a level defined as the root of an equation obtained from the representation of the reward function. We obtain an explicit formula for the value function in terms of the infimum and supremum of the process, by making use of the Wiener–Hopf factorization. The main results are applied to several problems considered in the literature, to give a unified approach, and to new optimization problems from the finance industry.
On the Degree Sequence of an Evolving Random Graph Process and Its Critical Phenomenon
Authors: Wu Xian-Yuan , Dong Zhao , Liu Ke , Cai Kai-Yuan
Published: December 2009

In this paper we focus on the problem of the degree sequence for a random graph process with edge deletion. We prove that, while a specific parameter varies, the limit degree distribution of the model exhibits critical phenomenon.
The Community Approach to Participation: Outcomes Following Acquired Brain Injury Intervention
Authors: Sloan Sue , Callaway Libby , Winkler Dianne , McKinley Kirsten , Ziino Carlo , Anson Katie
Published: December 2009

Objective: To investigate the participation outcomes of individuals with severe acquired brain injury (ABI) who were provided with up to 12 months of intervention based on the Community Approach to Participation (CAP). Method: A case series study design was undertaken with a total of 85 participants from two private practices specialising in community-based, CAP rehabilitation for people with severe ABI. Inclusion criteria were the person had sustained an acquired brain injury, was aged over 18 years and had received up to 12 consecutive months of CAP input from one of the two practices within a three-year period between January 2004 and January 2007. Twenty-six of the 85 participants were an average of 343 days post injury (Early group) and 59 of the participants were an average of 10.2 years post injury (Late group). They were living in a range of community environments and residential facilities. Initial participants were identified for the study in January 2005. Data were gathered using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM™), Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), and Role Checklist (RC Part 1) at two time points: prior to intervention (baseline), and after a 12-month period or at discharge (TI). Within the intervention period, all participants received a customised community occupational therapy (OT) rehabilitation program based on the key principles of the CAP. Intervention focused on participation goals of the individual, and development of the associated skills that underpinned valued role performance. Results: Participants each received an average of 51.01 hours of CAP OT during the 12-month period of intervention. Considerable improvement was seen in functional independence, community integration, and role participation after intervention in both the Early and Late groups. A statistically significant increase in FIM™ and CIQ total scores was found for all participants from Baseline to T1. The number of roles in which participants engaged increased on average by almost one role per participant following intervention, from a mean of 3.06 to 3.99. Increased participation in volunteer, home maintainer, participant in organisations and hobbyist roles were most common. Conclusion: Increased functional independence, community integration, and participation in both the Early and Late groups over a 12 month period demonstrates the potential for improved participation outcomes for people with complex needs following ABI, even many years post injury.
Planning Ability Following Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Performance on a 4-Disk Version of the Tower of London
Authors: Shum David , Gill Hannah , Banks Miranda , Maujean Annick , Griffin Janelle , Ward Heather
Published: December 2009

This study aimed to assess planning ability in adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) using a 4-disk version of the Tower of London (TOL). Thirty three individuals with TBI were compared with equivalent numbers of matched controls. Overall, the TOL4 was shown to be sensitive to the effects of brain injury, with the TBI group performing significantly more poorly on this version of the planning test than the matched controls. More specifically, group differences were found to be related to the complexity of the planning problems, particularly among a TBI subgroup with localised prefrontal damage. Results of the study provide support for the adverse effects of TBI on planning ability, and the important role of the prefrontal cortex in planning.
Enhanced photocatalytic disinfection of microorganisms by transition-metal-ion-modification of nitrogen-doped titanium oxide
Authors: Li Qi , Wu Pinggui , Xie Rongcai , Shang Jian Ku
Published: December 2009

In this article, palladium modification and silver modification were used as examples to demonstrate the disinfection effects on microorganisms in aqueous environment of photocatalytic transition-metal-ion-modified nitrogen-doped titanium oxide (TiON/M) materials. Transition metal ion modification was applied to TiON to take advantage of the coupling between transition metal ion addition and TiON semiconductor matrix under visible light illumination. The coupling promotes the separation of electron and hole pairs produced by photon excitation, thus it could reduce the intrinsic charge carrier recombination from anion-doping, which largely limits the photoactivity of TiON under visible light illumination. Large enhancements on the hydroxyl radical production and the photocatalytic disinfection efficiency on microorganisms under visible light illumination were observed for TiON with both palladium and silver modifications. The superior photocatalytic performance under visible light illumination suggests that the transition metal ion modification is an effective approach to reduce the massive charge carrier recombination from anion-doping and to enhance the photocatalytic performance of anion-doped TiO2. The resulting photocatalytic materials have the potential for a wide range of environmental applications.
Synthesis and photocatalytic activity of nano V-doped TiO2 particles in MCM-41 under UV–visible irradiation
Authors: Bhattacharyya Kaustava , Varma Salil , Tripathi Arvind K. , Tyagi Avesh K.
Published: December 2009

The vanadium (V)-doped titania (Ti0.95V0.05O2) was impregnated in the host matrix of the pre-synthesized siliceous mesoporous material MCM-41 in a single pot synthesis step, by the wet impregnation route. The samples were characterized by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption, diffuse reflectance ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (DRUVS). As compared to Ti0.95V0.05O2, the DRUV spectra of the impregnated catalysts showed a blue shift; still the absorption lies in the visible region. Presence of nano-sized (∼2–12 nm) V-doped titania particles in V-TiO2/MCM-41 was revealed by TEM and the particle size was found to increase with the loading of the V-doped titania in the host matrix. All impregnated samples were found to be more active than either the bulk V-doped titania or titania for photocatalytic oxidation of ethylene in air at ambient conditions under both UV and visible irradiation.
HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RAILWAY.
Authors: CRIGHTON G , BUDGE REID A
Published: December 2009

Hong Kong's new 34 km airport railway opened in June 1998 after a construction period of just 43 months. The HK$44 billion project links the new international airport at Chek Lap Kok and the rest of Hong Kong as well as giving essential relief to the existing mass transit railway system. The new railway comprises 8 km of tunnels, 6 km of elevated structures and 20 km of at-grade track. It serves four stations—Hong Kong, Kowloon, Tsing Yi and Chek Lap Kok—and is one of the first railways in the world to be purpose-built from the outset to serve a new airport. It has in-town check-in facilities at the two main urban stations and extensive transport interchanges at each station. The all-seated business class service to the airport takes only 23 minutes from Hong Kong Central and reaches speeds of up to 135 km/h.
WESTERN HARBOUR CROSSING, HONG KONG - A SUCCESSFUL BOT MODEL.
Authors: ROBERTSON J G
Published: December 2009

The Western Harbour Crossing in Hong Kong was built to satisfy the need for a third cross-harbour road tunnel as well as to provide a key link in the 34 km highway corridor between Hong Kong Island and the new international airport at Chek Lap Kok. The marine section of the 2 km, six-lane crossing was built from 12 immersed tube units weighing 35 000 t each. Though it was the only one of the ten Airport Core Programme projects to be procured on a build–operate–transfer (BOT) basis with private finance, it is the fourth such scheme to be undertaken in Hong Kong. All were completed ahead of schedule, demonstrating that the government's project agreement approach is a valid model for future BOT transport infrastructure projects.
Demand Elasticity, Risk Classification and Loss Coverage: When Can Community Rating Work?
Authors: Thomas R. Guy
Published: December 2009

This paper investigates the effects of high or low fair-premium demand elasticity in an insurance market where risk classification is restricted. The effects are represented by the equilibrium premium, and the risk-weighted insurance demand or “loss coverage”. High fair-premium demand elasticity leads to a collapse in loss coverage, with an equilibrium premium close to the risk of the higher-risk population. Low fair-premium demand elasticity leads to an equilibrium premium close to the risk of the lower-risk population, and high loss coverage – possibly higher than under more complete risk classification. The demand elasticity parameters which are required to generate a collapse in coverage in the model in this paper appear higher than the values for demand elasticity which have been estimated in several empirical studies of various insurance markets. This offers a possible explanation of why some insurance markets appear to operate reasonably well under community rating, without the collapse in coverage which insurance folklore suggests.
Option Pricing in a Jump-Diffusion Model with Regime Switching
Authors: Yuen Fei Lung , Yang Hailiang
Published: December 2009

Nowadays, the regime switching model has become a popular model in mathematical finance and actuarial science. The market is not complete when the model has regime switching. Thus, pricing the regime switching risk is an important issue. In Naik (1993), a jump diffusion model with two regimes is studied. In this paper, we extend the model of Naik (1993) to a multi-regime case. We present a trinomial tree method to price options in the extended model. Our results show that the trinomial tree method in this paper is an effective method; it is very fast and easy to implement. Compared with the existing methodologies, the proposed method has an obvious advantage when one needs to price exotic options and the number of regime states is large. Various numerical examples are presented to illustrate the ideas and methodologies.
A Bootstrap Estimate of the Predictive Distribution of Outstanding Claims for the Schnieper Model
Authors: Liu Huijuan , Verrall Richard
Published: December 2009

This paper considers the bootstrapping approach for measuring reserve uncertainty when applying the model of Schnieper for reserves which separate Incurred But Not Reported (IBNR) and Incurred But Not Enough Reserved (IBNER) claims. The Schnieper method has been explored in Liu and Verrall (2009), and the Mean Square Errors of Prediction (MSEP) derived. This paper takes this further by deriving the full predictive distribution, using bootstrapping. Numerical examples are provided and the MSEP from the bootstrapping approach are compared with those obtained analytically.
Synthesis and Properties of Nano-Hydroxyapatite/ Polymer Nanocomposites for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Chin Tjong Sie
Published: December 2009

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is the main mineral constituent of human bones. HA nanocrystals can
be synthesized using a variety of wet solution methods including chemical precipitation, hydrothermal,
sol-gel, micro- and nano-emulsion. HA nanocrystals synthesized from the chemical precipitation
process generally exhibit plate-like morphology. They tend to self-organize into an ordered structure in
the presence of biopolymers. The self-assembled HA-polymer nanocomposites simulate the
hierarchical structure of human bone at a fundamental level. Such biomimetic nanocomposites favor
osteoblast adhesion and proliferation, thereby stimulating new bone growth. Proper understanding of
the biomineralization of self-assembled structures is needed for designing high performance polymer
nanocomposites in bone tissue engineering.
Fabrication, Mechanical Property and Biocompatibility of Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Chin Tjong Sie
Published: December 2009

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) exhibit excellent electrical conductivity, mechanical strength,
stiffness and toughness as well as good biocompatibility with human cells. Accordingly, CNTs are
attractive reinforcing materials for polymer nanocomposites designed for orthopedic applications. The
integration of CNTs into polymeric materials opens up new frontiers in biomaterials. In this chapter,
the synthesis, purification and functionalization of carbon nanotubes, mechanical property and
biocompatibility of CNT-polymer nanocomposites are described in details. Proper understanding of
the process-structure-property relationship of CNT-polymer nanocomposites is necessary to achieve
desired mechanical property and biocompatibility.
α-Tosyloxylation of ketones with ion-supported[hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo] benzene
Authors: Su Feng , Zhang Jizhen , Jin Guangyu , Qiu Tao , Zhao Dejian , Jia Hongbin
Published: December 2009

A new room-temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) supported [hydroxy(tosyloxy)iodo]benzene (ion-supported HTIB) reagent was synthesised by three kinds of effective methods in high yields, which combined the advantages of ionic liquids and the hypervalent iodine. Ion-supported HTIB was an effective reagent for one-step conversion of ketones to the corresponding α-tosyloxylated ketones in the ionic liquid [emim]BF4or acetonitrile under microwave. After the conversion reaction, the reagent was transformed into ion-supported iodobenzene, which could be recovered and regenerated easily without lost of activity.
Independent changes in female body shape with parity and age: A life‐history approach to female adiposity
Authors: Wells Jonathan C.K. , Griffin Lewis , Treleaven Philip
Published: December 2009

Both aging and reproduction have been shown to influence female body shape in industrialized populations, involving redistribution of fat from lower to upper body regions. However, the extent to which effects of parity vary by age and the extent to which age affects shape independent of parity remain unclear. We studied shape variability in relation to age and parity in a cross‐sectional survey of 4,130 white British women, using three‐dimensional photonic scanning. In women ≤40 years, bearing children was associated with increased abdominal and reduced thigh girths, independent of age and BMI. Very few such differences were statistically significant in women >40 years, suggesting the effects of parity on shape wash out over time. In nulliparous women, aging was associated with shape variability, independent of BMI, with a similar pattern of associations evident in women both ≤40 and >40 years. Our data support previous findings of “covert maternal depletion” in relation to parity, but show that this is merely a more pronounced component of a general strategic shift of fat from lower to upper body with age. These findings are consistent with a life‐history model of female energy stores being allocated to competing “reproduction” and “maintenance” depots, with the optimal trade‐off strategy changing with age and with that strategic shift accelerated by bearing children. This model is relevant to the “grandmother hypothesis.” The dual effects of age and parity on fat distribution substantially resolve by old age the profound sexual dimorphism in adiposity present at the start of adult life. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Deleterious effects of plant cystatins against the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus
Authors: Kiggundu Andrew , Muchwezi Josephine , Van der Vyver Christell , Viljoen Altus , Vorster Juan , Schlüter Urte , Kunert Karl , Michaud Dominique
Published: December 2009

The general potential of plant cystatins for the development of insect‐resistant transgenic plants still remains to be established given the natural ability of several insects to compensate for the loss of digestive cysteine protease activities. Here we assessed the potential of cystatins for the development of banana lines resistant to the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus, a major pest of banana and plantain in Africa. Protease inhibitory assays were conducted with protein and methylcoumarin (MCA) peptide substrates to measure the inhibitory efficiency of different cystatins in vitro, followed by a diet assay with cystatin‐infiltrated banana stem disks to monitor the impact of two plant cystatins, oryzacystatin I (OC‐I, or OsCYS1) and papaya cystatin (CpCYS1), on the overall growth rate of weevil larvae. As observed earlier for other Coleoptera, banana weevils produce a variety of proteases for dietary protein digestion, including in particular Z‐Phe‐Arg‐MCA‐hydrolyzing (cathepsin L–like) and Z‐Arg‐Arg‐MCA‐hydrolyzing (cathepsin B–like) proteases active in mildly acidic conditions. Both enzyme populations were sensitive to the cysteine protease inhibitor E‐64 and to different plant cystatins including OsCYS1. In line with the broad inhibitory effects of cystatins, OsCYS1 and CpCYS1 caused an important growth delay in young larvae developing for 10 days in cystatin‐infiltrated banana stem disks. These promising results, which illustrate the susceptibility of C. sordidus to plant cystatins, are discussed in the light of recent hypotheses suggesting a key role for cathepsin B–like enzymes as a determinant for resistance or susceptibility to plant cystatins in Coleoptera. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized clinical trial of symptom control after stapled anopexy or diathermy excision for haemorrhoid prolapse
Authors: Nyström P-O , Qvist N , Raahave D , Lindsey I , Mortensen N
Published: December 2009

Background

This multicentre randomized clinical trial studied how symptoms improved after either stapled anopexy or diathermy excision of haemorrhoids.

Methods

The study involved 18 hospitals in Sweden, Denmark and the UK. Some 207 patients were randomized to either anopexy or Milligan–Morgan haemorrhoidectomy, of whom 90 in each group were operated on. Patients reported symptoms before surgery and after 1 year. Daily postoperative pain scores were recorded in a patient diary. Surgeons evaluated the anal anatomy before surgery and after 1 year.

Results

Correction of prolapse in the anopexy and haemorrhoidectomy groups was similar at 1 year (88 and 90 per cent respectively; P = 0·80). Freedom from symptoms was obtained in 44 and 69 per cent respectively (P = 0·002). Stapled anopexy was associated with less postoperative pain, which resolved more quickly (P = 0·004). Significant improvements were noted in anal continence and well-being 1 year after both operations (P < 0·001). Excessive pain was the most common complication after diathermy excision and disturbed bowel function after stapled anopexy.

Conclusion

Haemorrhoidal prolapse was corrected equally by either operation. Diathermy haemorrhoidectomy gave better symptom relief but was more painful. Neither operation provided complete cure but well-being was greatly improved. Registration number: ISRCTN68315343 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).
Quality of life after transperineal rectosigmoidectomy
Authors: Kim M , Reibetanz J , Boenicke L , Germer C-T , Jayne D , Isbert C
Published: December 2009

Background

This study evaluated continence, constipation and quality of life before and after perineal rectosigmoidectomy for full-thickness rectal prolapse.

Methods

Consecutive patients with full-thickness rectal prolapse undergoing perineal rectosigmoid- ectomy (Altemeier's procedure) between May 2004 and June 2008 were studied. A standardized questionnaire, including the Cleveland Clinic Constipation Score (CCCS), Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS) and quality of life scores (EuroQol—Five Dimensions, EuroQol—Visual Analogue Scale and Patient Assessment of Constipation—Quality of Life (PAC-QOL)), was administered before and after operation.

Results

Thirty-eight patients (32 women) of mean(s.d.) age 75(13) years underwent rectosigmoid- ectomy. Seven patients developed postoperative complications and one died. There was one recurrence 5 months after surgery. Twenty-nine patients completed the follow-up questionnaire and were reviewed after a median of 24 (range 6–48) months. Constipation and incontinence were significantly improved after surgery (mean CCCS from 10·21 to 3·58 and CCIS from 14·17 to 11·42; P < 0·001). Quality of life, in terms of mobility, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression, were significantly better at follow-up (P < 0·001), as was subjective health status (P < 0·001). The PAC-QOL score improved significantly in all dimensions (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

Transperineal rectosigmoidectomy improves general and constipation-related quality of life with good functional results.
Mid-term outcome of endovascular revascularization for chronic mesenteric ischaemia
Authors: Dias N V , Acosta S , Resch T , Sonesson B , Alhadad A , Malina M , Ivancev K
Published: December 2009

Background

This study aimed to assess mid-term outcome after endovascular revascularization of chronic occlusive mesenteric ischaemia (CMI) and to identify possible predictors of mortality.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing primary elective stenting for CMI between 1995 and 2007 were registered prospectively in a database. Patients with acute ischaemia were excluded. Retrospective case-note review and data analysis were performed.

Results

Forty-three patients (10 men) were treated for stable (n = 30) or exacerbated (n = 13) CMI. Their median (interquartile range (i.q.r.)) age was 70 (60–79) years. Revascularization was successful in 47 of 49 vessels. The superior mesenteric artery (SMA), either alone (n = 34) or in combination with the coeliac trunk (n = 6), was the predominant target vessel. No patient died within 30 days. Median follow-up was 43 (i.q.r. 25–63) months and the estimated (s.e.) 3-year overall survival rate was 76(7) per cent. Two patients died from distal SMA occlusive disease and intestinal infarction after 6 and 18 months respectively. Previous stroke (P = 0·016), male sex (P = 0·057) and age (P = 0·066) were associated with mid-term mortality on univariable, but not multivariable analysis. Reintervention was needed in 14 patients, achieving a 3-year cumulative rate of freedom from recurrent symptoms of 88(5) per cent.

Conclusion

Endovascular treatment provided high early and mid-term survival rates in this series of patients with CMI, with low complication rates.
Skeletal muscle contractile properties and proinflammatory cytokine gene expression in human endotoxaemia
Authors: McNicol F J , Hoyland J A , Cooper R G , Carlson G L
Published: December 2009

Background

Muscle dysfunction associated with sepsis contributes to morbidity and mortality but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study examined whether muscle weakness relates to an intrinsic defect in contraction, or to central mechanisms associated with acute illness, and whether systemic endotoxaemia induces changes in gene expression for proinflammatory cytokines within human muscle in vivo.

Methods

In this experimental study, 12 healthy men received intravenous Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 4 ng/kg) or saline (control). Voluntary and electrically stimulated quadriceps contraction, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) α mRNA expression in quadriceps muscle biopsies were studied before and after the infusion.

Results

Endotoxaemia induced transient weakness of voluntary quadriceps contraction, equivalent to a 7·8 (95 per cent confidence interval 2·1 to 13·5) per cent reduction in contractile force at 180 min (P = 0·027) and a 9·0 (5·2 to 12·8) per cent reduction at 300 min (P = 0·008). Electrically stimulated contraction was unaffected. LPS administration resulted in an apparent fibre-specific induction of TNF-α mRNA.

Conclusion

Endotoxaemia results in a reduction in voluntary muscle contractile force without an apparent defect in stimulated muscle contraction. Loss of volition may be a more important factor than intrinsic dysfunction in acute sepsis-associated human muscle weakness.
Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on the safety and effectiveness of early versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis
Authors: Gurusamy K , Samraj K , Gluud C , Wilson E , Davidson B R
Published: December 2009

Background

In many countries laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis is mainly performed after the acute episode has settled because of the anticipated increased risk of morbidity and higher conversion rate from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy.

Methods

A systematic review was performed with meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials of early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC; performed within 1 week of onset of symptoms) versus delayed laparoscopic cholecystectomy (performed at least 6 weeks after symptoms settled) for acute cholecystitis. Trials were identified from The Cochrane Library trials register, Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index Expanded and reference lists. Risk ratio (RR) or mean difference was calculated with 95 per cent confidence intervals (c.i.) based on intention-to-treat analysis.

Results

Five trials with 451 patients were included. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of bile duct injury (RR 0·64 (95 per cent c.i. 0·15 to 2·65)) or conversion to open cholecystectomy (RR 0·88 (95 per cent c.i. 0·62 to 1·25)). The total hospital stay was shorter by 4 days for ELC (mean difference −4·12 (95 per cent c.i. −5·22 to −3·03) days).

Conclusion

ELC during acute cholecystitis appears safe and shortens the total hospital stay.
Anti‐TNF‐alpha drugs ‐ moving into the mainstream?
Authors: Ding Tina , Deighton Chris
Published: December 2009

Anti‐TNF drugs are a major treatment advance in the management of inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and are typically considered following unsuccessful treatment with conventional disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Drs Chris Deighton and Tina Ding review the available anti‐TNF‐alpha drugs, and consider their future place in therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consolidation hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy using paclitaxel in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Kim Jin Hwi , Lee Joon Mo , Ryu Ki Sung , Lee Yong Seok , Park Yong Gyu , Hur Soo Young , Lee Keun Ho , Lee Sung Ha , Kim Seung Jo
Published: December 2009

Background

We evaluated the efficacy and feasibility of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) using paclitaxel as consolidation therapy in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.

Methods

Between November 1999 and January 2004, 18 patients with a negative second‐look and 1 patient with positive peritoneal cytology only with stage Ic–IIIc epithelial ovarian cancer received consolidation intra‐operative HIPEC using paclitaxel. The HIPEC was performed with open‐abdomen technique, using 6 L of lactated Ringer's solution containing paclitaxel 175 mg/m2, for 90 min in hyperthermic phase (43–44°C). The survival rates were compared with 24 patients treated with conventional therapy (control group).

Results

The 8‐year progression‐free survival rates were 63.16% in the HIPEC‐paclitaxel group and 29.17% in the control group (P = 0.027). The 8‐year overall survival rates were 84.21% in the HIPEC‐paclitaxel group and 25.00% in the control group (P = 0.0004). The time interval between initial treatment and HIPEC was statistically significant with respect to progression‐free and overall survival in the HIPEC‐paclitaxel group.

Conclusion

HIPEC with paclitaxel during 2nd‐look laparotomy is feasible and relatively safe and showed a good effect on survival. In patients with epithelial ovarian cancer who have a complete pathologic response, HIPEC with paclitaxel should be considered as a consolidation treatment option. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;101:149–155. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Factors associated with recurrence and survival following hepatectomy for large hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter analysis
Authors: Schiffman Suzanne C. , Woodall Charles E. , Kooby David A. , Martin Robert C.G. , Staley Charles A. , Egnatashvili Vasili , McMasters Kelly M. , Scoggins Charles R.
Published: December 2009

Background

Optimal management of large (>5 cm) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial. We sought to determine the factors associated with recurrence and survival for patients with large HCC following hepatectomy.

Methods

An analysis of a combined prospective database from two tertiary care centers was performed on consecutive patients who underwent hepatectomy for HCC > 5 cm. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine factors associated with recurrence, disease‐free (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were identified: 32 (41%) had hepatic fibrosis. Forty‐six patients (59%) underwent a major hepatectomy with a morbidity rate of 41% and a mortality rate of 13%. Fibrosis was associated with male gender (P = 0.045), hepatitis C (P = 0.003), higher Child‐Pugh (P < 0.0001) and Okuda score (P = 0.002), smaller tumors (6.25 cm vs. 10.5 cm; P < 0.001), positive‐margin resection (P = 0.01), and death (P = 0.047). Factors associated with recurrence include tumor multifocality (P = 0.03) and vascular invasion (P = 0.02). Predictors of OS include multifocal tumors (P = 0.05), margin status (P = 0.02), vascular invasion (P = 0.01), and treatment complications (P = 0.004). The median overall DFS and OS were 12 and 20 months, respectively. Fibrosis had no impact on DFS (P = 0.24) or OS (P = 0.20).

Conclusions

For patients with HCC larger than 5 cm, tumor‐related factors predict outcomes and survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;101:105–110. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pregnancy outcomes among liver transplant recipients in the United States: A nationwide case-control analysis
Authors: Coffin Carla S. , Shaheen Abdel Aziz M. , Burak Kelly W. , Myers Robert P.
Published: December 2009

Liver transplant recipients and their infants may have an increased risk of obstetric complications. Our objective was to describe pregnancy outcomes in women with a prior transplant from a population-based perspective. We analyzed the 1993–2005 US Nationwide Inpatient Sample database to identify obstetric hospitalizations among transplant recipients (n = 206) and controls matched by age, hospital, and year (n = 4060). The effect of prior transplantation on maternal and fetal outcomes was evaluated with regression models with adjustments for patient and hospital factors, including admission to a transplant center. Between 1993 and 2005, 146 delivery admissions among liver transplant recipients were identified. Cesarean deliveries were more common among transplant recipients (38% versus 24%; P = 0.0001); however, this difference was not significant after multivariate adjustment [OR (odds ratio) = 0.87; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.60–1.27]. Maternal mortality was similar among cases and controls (0% versus 0.02%; P = 1.00), but transplant patients had higher rates of fetal mortality (6.3% versus 2.0%; P = 0.0006), antepartum admission (OR = 2.27; 95% CI = 1.59–3.25), and maternal (OR = 2.63; 95% CI = 1.82–3.80) and fetal complications (OR = 2.49; 95% CI = 1.68–3.70). Gestational hypertension (30% versus 9%; P < 0.0001) and postpartum hemorrhage (8% versus 3%; P = 0.009) were more common among transplant recipients; their infants had higher rates of prematurity (27% versus 11%; P < 0.0001), distress (10% versus 5%; P = 0.005), and growth restriction (5% versus 2%; P = 0.05) but not congenital anomalies. Hospitalization in a transplant center (˜50%) was associated with similar obstetric outcomes. In conclusion, although most pregnancy outcomes are favorable, liver transplant recipients and their infants have an increased risk of obstetric complications. Additional studies evaluating mechanisms aimed at reducing these complications are necessary. Liver Transpl 16:56–63, 2010. © 2009 AASLD.
The cytoprotective effects of addition of activated protein C into preservation solution on small-for-size grafts in rats
Authors: Kuriyama Naohisa , Isaji Shuji , Hamada Takashi , Kishiwada Masashi , Ohsawa Ichiro , Usui Masanobu , Sakurai Hiroyuki , Tabata Masami , Hayashi Tatsuya , Suzuki Koji
Published: December 2009

Small-for-size liver grafts are a serious obstacle for partial orthotopic liver transplantation. Activated protein C (APC), a potent anticoagulant serine protease, is known to have cell-protective properties due to its anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities. This study was designed to examine the cytoprotective effects of a preservation solution containing APC on small-for-size liver grafts, with special attention paid to ischemia-reperfusion injury and shear stress in rats. APC exerted cytoprotective effects, as evidenced by (1) increased 7-day graft survival; (2) decreased initial portal pressure and improved hepatic microcirculation; (3) decreased levels of aminotransferase and improved histological features of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury; (4) suppressed infiltration of neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages; (5) reduced hepatic expression of tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6; (6) decreased serum levels of hyaluronic acid, which indicated attenuation of sinusoidal endothelial cell injury; (7) increased hepatic levels of nitric oxide via up-regulated hepatic endothelial nitric oxide synthesis expression together with down-regulated hepatic inducible nitric oxide synthase expression; (8) decreased hepatic levels of endothelin 1; and (9) reduced hepatocellular apoptosis by down-regulated caspase-8 and caspase-3 activities. These results suggest that a preservation solution containing APC is a potential novel and safe product for small-for-size liver transplantation, alleviating graft injury via anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic effects and vasorelaxing conditions. Liver Transpl 16:1–11, 2010. © 2009 AASLD.