bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungicide residues in grapes determined the dynamics of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains during spontaneous wine fermentation
Authors: Cus Franc , Cadez Neza , Raspor Peter
Published: January 2012

Impact of three fungicides against B. cinerea (iprodione, pyrimethanil and f
ludioxonil plus cyprodinil) on the population of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strains during the spontaneous alcoholic fermentation was studied. With
regard to the use of fungicides in the vineyard at two stages of the
grapevine growth we followed four different spontaneous fermentations:
control, iprodione, pyrimethanil and f ludioxonil plus cyprodinil. The
fungicide residues in the grapes were determined by GC/MS system and the
fermentations were followed by changes in yeast, sugar, and ethanol
concentrations using colony counting and HPLC. The karyotype analysis of 473
isolates was done by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The fungicide residues
in the grapes at the harvest were below the maximum residue limits. Isolates
of S. cerevisiae were classified into 15 karyotype groups. The duration of
the processes and the populations of the karyotypes differed between the
fermentations. The iprodione and control fermentations lasted 36 days with
the prevalence of karyotype A while the fludioxonil plus cyprodinil
fermentation lasted 50 days and karyotype D led the process. In the
pyrimethanil fermentation, none of the karyotypes prevailed in the must and
the fermentation lasted much longer than others did (68 days). The results
showed that the fungicide residues have an influence on the fermentation
kinetics and selection of S. cerevisiae strains during the spontaneous
alcoholic fermentation and therefore should be considered as an important
factor that may indirectly influence the formation of fermentation aroma in
the wine produced by such process.
Potentially pathogenic, pathogenic, and allergenic moulds in the urban soils
Authors: Djukic Dragutin , Mandic Leka , Bozaric Lidija , Trifunovic Bojana , Pesakovic Marijana
Published: January 2012

The dynamics of soil mould populations that can compromise the human immune
system was evaluated in experimental plots located at different distances
(100, 300, 500, 700 and 900 m) from the main source of pollution - the
Podgorica Aluminum Plant. Soil samples were collected in July and October
2008 from three different plot zones at a depth of 0-10 cm. The count of
potentially pathogenic, keratinolytic and allergenic (melaninogenic) moulds
was assessed, which can significantly contribute to both diagnosis and
prophylaxis. The count of medically important moulds was higher in the urban
soil than in the unpolluted (control) soil. Their count decreased with
increasing distance from the main pollution source (PAP). Their abundance in
the soil was considerably higher in autumn than in spring.
Mortality Experience of a Low-Income Population With Young-Onset Diabetes
Authors: Conway Baqiyyah N. , May Michael E. , Signorello Lisa B. , Blot William J.
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE

In young-onset diabetes, insulin therapy status is a rough marker of diabetes type. We describe the mortality experience of a low-income, predominantly minority population with diabetes diagnosed before age 30 years, stratified by insulin therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 1,098 adults aged 40–79 years (median 49) diagnosed with diabetes before age 30 years and 49,914 without diabetes were recruited from community health centers. Individuals with diabetes were categorized by insulin therapy at baseline: group A, insulin therapy only; group B, insulin therapy and an oral hypoglycemic agent; and group C, no insulin therapy. Cox models were used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CI for cause-specific mortality based on both underlying and contributing causes of death from death certificates.

RESULTS

During follow-up (mean 3.9 years), 15.0, 12.5, and 7.3% of groups A, B, and C, respectively, and 4.6% without diabetes died. Compared with individuals without diabetes, HRs (CI) for all-cause mortality were 4.3 (3.4–5.6), 4.2 (2.8–6.3), and 2.0 (1.4–2.8) in groups A, B, and C, respectively. The leading cause of death was renal failure (end-stage renal disease [ESRD]) in group A, ESRD and coronary artery disease (CAD) in group B, and CAD in group C and individuals without diabetes. HRs for these conditions were at least twice as high as the HRs for all-cause mortality, reaching 17.3 (10.2–29.3), 17.9 (8.3–38.7), and 5.1 (2.3–11.7) in groups A, B, and C, respectively, for ESRD.

CONCLUSIONS

Excess mortality persists among people with young-onset diabetes of long duration, with ESRD and CAD as the leading contributors to mortality.
Novel Urinary Protein Biomarkers Predicting the Development of Microalbuminuria and Renal Function Decline in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Schlatzer Daniela , Maahs David M. , Chance Mark R. , Dazard Jean-Eudes , Li Xiaolin , Hazlett Fred , Rewers Marian , Snell-Bergeon Janet K.
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE

To define a panel of novel protein biomarkers of renal disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adults with type 1 diabetes in the Coronary Artery Calcification in Type 1 Diabetes study who were initially free of renal complications (n = 465) were followed for development of micro- or macroalbuminuria (MA) and early renal function decline (ERFD, annual decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate of ≥3.3%). The label-free proteomic discovery phase was conducted in 13 patients who progressed to MA by the 6-year visit and 11 control subjects, and four proteins (Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein, α-1 acid glycoprotein, clusterin, and progranulin) identified in the discovery phase were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 74 subjects: group A, normal renal function (n = 35); group B, ERFD without MA (n = 15); group C, MA without ERFD (n = 16); and group D, both ERFD and MA (n = 8).

RESULTS

In the label-free analysis, a model of progression to MA was built using 252 peptides, yielding an area under the curve (AUC) of 84.7 ± 5.3%. In the validation study, ordinal logistic regression was used to predict development of ERFD, MA, or both. A panel including Tamm-Horsfall glycoprotein (odds ratio 2.9, 95% CI 1.3–6.2, P = 0.008), progranulin (1.9, 0.8–4.5, P = 0.16), clusterin (0.6, 0.3–1.1, P = 0.09), and α-1 acid glycoprotein (1.6, 0.7–3.7, P = 0.27) improved the AUC from 0.841 to 0.889.

CONCLUSIONS

A panel of four novel protein biomarkers predicted early renal damage in type 1 diabetes. These findings require further validation in other populations for prediction of renal complications and treatment monitoring.
Diabetes, Its Treatment, and Catastrophic Medical Spending in 35 Developing Countries
Authors: Smith-Spangler Crystal M. , Bhattacharya Jay , Goldhaber-Fiebert Jeremy D.
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE

To assess the individual financial impact of having diabetes in developing countries, whether diabetic individuals possess appropriate medications, and the extent to which health insurance may protect diabetic individuals by increasing medication possession or decreasing the risk of catastrophic spending.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using 2002–2003 World Health Survey data (n = 121,051 individuals; 35 low- and middle-income countries), we examined possession of medications to treat diabetes and estimated the relationship between out-of-pocket medical spending (2005 international dollars), catastrophic medical spending, and diabetes. We assessed whether health insurance modified these relationships.

RESULTS

Diabetic individuals experience differentially higher out-of-pocket medical spending, particularly among individuals with high levels of spending (excess spending of $157 per year [95% CI 130–184] at the 95th percentile), and a greater chance of incurring catastrophic medical spending (17.8 vs. 13.9%; difference 3.9% [95% CI 0.2–7.7]) compared with otherwise similar individuals without diabetes. Diabetic individuals with insurance do not have significantly lower risks of catastrophic medical spending (18.6 vs. 17.7%; difference not significant), nor were they significantly more likely to possess diabetes medications (22.8 vs. 20.6%; difference not significant) than those who were otherwise similar but without insurance. These effects were more pronounced and significant in lower-income countries.

CONCLUSIONS

In low-income countries, despite insurance, diabetic individuals are more likely to experience catastrophic medical spending and often do not possess appropriate medications to treat diabetes. Research into why policies in these countries may not adequately protect people from catastrophic spending or enhance possession of critical medications is urgently needed.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D Concentrations and In Vivo Insulin Sensitivity and β-Cell Function Relative to Insulin Sensitivity in Black and White Youth
Authors: Rajakumar Kumaravel , de las Heras Javier , Lee SoJung , Holick Michael F. , Arslanian Silva A.
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationships between plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and in vivo insulin sensitivity and β-cell function relative to insulin sensitivity, disposition index (DI), in black and white youth.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Plasma 25(OH)D concentrations were analyzed in banked specimens in healthy youth aged 8 to 18 years who had existing data on hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic and hyperglycemic clamp to assess insulin sensitivity and secretion, and measurements of body composition, and abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT).

RESULTS

A total of 183 research volunteers (mean ± SD; age, 12.6 ± 2.2 years; 98 white, 98 male, 92 obese) were studied. Analysis of HbA1c, fasting glucose and insulin, insulin sensitivity, and DI across quartiles of plasma 25(OH)D revealed no differences among whites. In blacks, the observed significance of higher insulin sensitivity and DI in the highest quartile of 25(OH)D disappeared after adjusting for any of the adiposity measures (BMI or fat mass or VAT or SAT). The difference in insulin sensitivity (9.4 ± 1.2 vs. 5.6 ± 0.5 mg/kg/min per μU/mL; P = 0.006) between 25(OH)D nondeficient (≥20 ng/mL) versus deficient (<20 ng/mL) black youth also was negated when adjusted for adiposity.

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy youth, plasma 25(OH)D concentrations bear no independent relationship to parameters of glucose homeostasis and in vivo insulin sensitivity and β-cell function relative to insulin sensitivity. It remains to be determined whether in youth with dysglycemia the relationships are different and whether vitamin D optimization enhances insulin sensitivity and β-cell function.
Critical issues in contemporary education: Prolegomena
Authors: Kaščák Ondrej , Pupala Branislav
Published: January 2012

This paper summarizes the problematic aspects of a globalized neoliberal culture in education. Linking to the particular studies of this monothematic volume it discusses the consequences of the globalization of a testing culture in schools, the issues of developing civic literacy in the context of current education practice and the issues of forming a historic consciousness in present schools relating to the existing social discourse. Language teaching, currently dominated by the concept of language literacy or the concept of language education resulting from English language teaching seems to be significant. This paper reveals various ways in which the educational section is being contaminated by neoliberal transformations to point out their culturally devastating consequences in a critical way. The goal of this paper is to articulate the mechanism by which neoliberalism is infiltrating education in the form of discursive and physical “colonizing”.
Educating for profit, educating global citizenship
Authors: Hickman Larry
Published: January 2012

After reviewing current proposals for standardized testing in K-12 education (United States) and for imposition of free-market economic and business models on higher education (Texas, Florida, and the United Kingdom), I argue that both types of proposals rest on flawed pedagogical assumptions and tend to undermine educational practices that promote the development of global citizens. I suggest that John Dewey was aware of the type of challenges now faced by educators and that he provided tools for blunting the force of these proposals and moving educational practice toward more desirable ends.
Influence of Treatment with Intranasal Corticosteroids on the Nasal Mucosa, Weight, and Corticosteroid Concentration in Rats
Authors: Park Danielle Morello , Carvalho Teresa Lúcia Lamano , Franci Janete Aparecida Anselmo , Anselmo-Lima Wilma Terezinha
Published: January 2012

Background

The effect of intranasal corticosteroids on the nasal epithelium mucosa is an important parameter of treatment safety. This study was designed to examine whether treatment with topical corticosteroids in patients with allergic rhinitis causes atrophic nasal mucosal changes, when compared with systemic corticosteroids, in rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were treated daily during 7 weeks with topical administration with 10 microliters of normal saline (control group), 10 microliters of mometasone furoate group, 10 microliters of triamcinolone acetonide (T group), and 8 mg/kg of daily subcutaneous injections of methylprednisolone sodium succinate (MP group). Body weight was evaluated weekly. At the end of the treatment, rats were killed by decapitation to collect blood for determination of corticosterone levels and nasal cavities were prepared for histological descriptive analyses.

Results

Treatment with T and MP decreased body weight. Plasma corticosterone concentration was significantly reduced by MP treatment and presented a clear tendency to decrease after T treatment. Histological changes observed in group T included ripples, cell vacuolization, increase in the number of nuclei, and decrease in the number of cilia in the epithelial cells.

Conclusion

Growth and corticosterone concentration were impaired by T and MP at the same proportion, suggesting a role of this hormone in body gain. With the exception of T, intranasal or systemic treatment with the corticosteroids evaluated in this study did not affect nasal mucosa.
Race to the Future: Innovations in Gifted and Enrichment Education in Asia, and Implications for the United States
Authors: Ibata-Arens Kathryn C.
Published: January 2012

How are Asian countries preparing children to have skills—including creativity, innovation, and technical capability—to compete in the 21st Century global economy? Countries including China, Korea, Japan and Singapore have begun to integrate education policy and practice into a key component of national innovation strategies: human capital development. Asian countries are developing an emphasis on innovation and creativity at all levels of education, while the United States continues (via No Child Left Behind testing and budget cut-backs) to move away from that model. Developments in China (including Hong Kong and Taiwan), Korea and Singapore are complemented with comparisons to trends in national policy and private sector practice in Japan and the United States. Preliminary findings indicate that while progress has been made towards establishing education practices that enrich student learning, helping children to reach their highest potential in some countries, cultural practices and budgetary constraints have limited reform in others. The paper concludes with a summary of comparative best practices in enrichment education policy and practice and implications for globally competitive national innovation systems.
Mechanisms of Action of (Meth)acrylates in Hemolytic Activity, in Vivo Toxicity and Dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) Liposomes Determined Using NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Fujisawa Seiichiro , Kadoma Yoshinori
Published: January 2012

We investigated the quantitative structure-activity relationships between hemolytic activity (log 1/H50) or in vivo mouse intraperitoneal (ip) LD50 using reported data for α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds such as (meth)acrylate monomers and their 13C-NMR β-carbon chemical shift (δ). The log 1/H50 value for methacrylates was linearly correlated with the δCβ value. That for (meth)acrylates was linearly correlated with log P, an index of lipophilicity. The ipLD50 for (meth)acrylates was linearly correlated with δCβ but not with log P. For (meth)acrylates, the δCβ value, which is dependent on the π-electron density on the β-carbon, was linearly correlated with PM3-based theoretical parameters (chemical hardness, η; electronegativity, χ; electrophilicity, ω), whereas log P was linearly correlated with heat of formation (HF). Also, the interaction between (meth)acrylates and DPPC liposomes in cell membrane molecular models was investigated using 1H-NMR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The log 1/H50 value was related to the difference in chemical shift (ΔδHa) (Ha: H (trans) attached to the β-carbon) between the free monomer and the DPPC liposome-bound monomer. Monomer-induced DSC phase transition properties were related to HF for monomers. NMR chemical shifts may represent a valuable parameter for investigating the biological mechanisms of action of (meth)acrylates.
A New Cytotoxic Sesquiterpene Quinone Produced by Penicillium sp. F00120 Isolated from a Deep Sea Sediment Sample
Authors: Lin Xiuping , Zhou Xuefeng , Wang Fazuo , Liu Kaisheng , Yang Bin , Yang Xianwen , Peng Yan , Liu Juan , Ren Zhe , Liu Yonghong
Published: January 2012

A new fungal strain, displaying strong toxic activity against brine shrimp larvae, was isolated from a deep sea sediment sample collected at a depth of 1300 m. The strain, designated as F00120, was identified as a member of the genus Penicillium on the basis of morphology and ITS sequence analysis. One new sesquiterpene quinone, named penicilliumin A (1), along with two known compounds ergosterol (2) and ergosterol peroxide (3), were isolated and purified from the cultures of F00120 by silica gel column, Sephadex LH-20 column, and preparative thin layer chromatography. Their structures were elucidated by detailed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopic (MS) analysis as well as comparison with literature data. The new compound penicilliumin A inhibited in vitro proliferation of mouse melanoma (B16), human melanoma (A375), and human cervical carcinoma (Hela) cell lines moderately.
The Effect of β-Carotene Supplementation on the Pharmacokinetics of Nelfinavir and Its Active Metabolite M8 in HIV-1-infected Patients
Authors: Sheehan Nancy L. , Heeswijk Rolf P. G. van , Foster Brian C. , Akhtar Humayoun , Singhal Neera , Seguin Isabelle , DelBalso Lina , Bourbeau Marc , Chauhan Bobby M. , Boulassel Mohammed-Rachid , Burger David M. , Lalonde Richard G. , Cameron Donald William
Published: January 2012

β-Carotene supplements are often taken by individuals living with HIV-1. Contradictory results from in vitro studies suggest that β-carotene may inhibit or induce cytochrome P450 enzymes and transporters. The study objective was to investigate the effect of β-carotene on the steady-state pharmacokinetics of nelfinavir and its active metabolite M8 in HIV-1 infected individuals. Twelve hour nelfinavir pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted at baseline and after 28 days of β-carotene supplementation (25,000 IU twice daily). Nelfinavir and M8 concentrations were measured with validated assays. Non-compartmental methods were used to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters. Geometric mean ratios comparing day 28 to day 1 area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0–12 h), maximum (Cmax) and minimum (Cmin) concentrations of nelfinavir and M8 are presented with 90% confidence intervals. Eleven subjects completed the study and were included in the analysis. There were no significant differences in nelfinavir AUC0–12 h and Cmin (−10%, +4%) after β-carotene supplementation. The M8 Cmin was increased by 31% while the M8 AUC0–12 h and Cmax were unchanged. During the 28 day period, mean CD4+ % and CD4+:CD8+ ratio increased significantly (p < 0.01). β-carotene supplementation increased serum carotene levels but did not cause any clinically significant difference in the nelfinavir and M8 exposure.
FUNKCINĖS MUTACIJOS FENOMENAS IR JO ĮTAKOS ISTORINEI KAUNO IR KLAIPĖDOS MIESTŲ APLINKAI
Authors: Mozūriūnaitė Skirmantė
Published: January 2012

The article discusses the features of urban spread in Lithuanian cities. It provides a detailed overview of the social, economic, physical, technological and global factors as well as their mutual interaction considering a time aspect. The article deals with the factors and reasons that caused the functional loss of the central parts of Kaunas and Klaipėda cities. Besides, it analyses the change in the urban function dispersion and the factors affecting and determining urban mutations. This article discusses the consequences of urban functions, their factors and trends. The goal of the article is to discuss the factors and implications or urban functional mutations in an urban historic environment. Santrauka Miestai yra kompleksiška ir daugiafunkcė sistema, kuri nuolatos vystosi, keičiasi ir adaptuojasi, kad išliktų. Straipsnyje aptariamas Lietuvos miestų pavyzdžiu atlikto empirinio tyrimo funkcinių mutacijų reiškinys ir jo pasekmės miestų istorinių dalių kaitai. Detaliai tiriant socialinių, ekonominių, fizinių, globalinių ir technologinių procesų poveikį nustatyta Kauno ir Klaipėdos miestų istorinių gatvių funkcijų kaita ir aplinkos transformacijų (mutacijų) mastas bei priežastys. Aptariamos urbanistinių funkcijų kaitos pasekmės miesto istorinei aplinkai, architektūriniam identitetui ir proceso dėsningumui. Straipsnyje pateikiama atliktų tyrimų metodika, proceso dėsningumai. Šio straipsnio tikslas – atskleisti miesto funkcijų mutacijas lemiančius veiksnius ir jų pasekmes.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex detected by modified fluorescent in situ hybridization in lymph nodes of clinical samples
Authors: Rodriguez-Nuñez Juan , Avelar Francisco J , Marquez Francisco , Rivas-Santiago Bruno , Quiñones Cesar , Guerrero-Barrera Alma L.
Published: January 2012

Introduction:  Lymph node tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and is the most frequently identified type in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Conventional diagnosis has serious limitations for rapid detection of extrapulmonary tuberculosis in clinical samples. Here PCR and modified FISH have been tested as complementary diagnosis methods for extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Methodology: The specific insertion sequence IS6110 for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex was used to perform PCR and build DNA and PNA FISH probes (20bp). PCR and modified DNA and PNA FISH assays were performed to evaluate 41 lymph node paraffin-embedded tissue samples, in comparison with the histopathology diagnosis, which was considered the gold standard (22 positive and 19 negative). Results: In comparison with histopathology diagnosis PCR showed 62.5 % sensitivity and 77.8 % specificity (χ2 = 4.583 p < 0.05). Modified DNA FISH showed 71.4% sensitivity and 84.6% specificity (χ2 = 11.21 p < 0.05). PNA FISH showed 66.7% sensitivity and 60.0% specificity (χ2 = 2.93 p > 0.05). Ziehl Neelsen stain was positive in only four cases of 22 lymph node samples positive to histopathology.  In contrast, PCR and modified DNA FISH were positive in 20 cases of the same group. The negative cases were coincident in all tests.Conclusions: PCR and DNA FISH showed a significant increase in the number of cases detected and also showed higher sensitivity and specificity compared with data reported by traditional methodology. In developing countries, these techniques could help to complement the early diagnosis and timely treatment of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Diagnostic defaulters: an overlooked aspect in the Indian Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program
Authors: Rawat Jagdish , Biswas Debasis , Sindhwani Girish , Kesharwani Vikas , Masih Victor , Chauhan Bhupendra Singh
Published: January 2012

Introduction: The Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) aims to achieve detection of 70% of new smear-positive patients in a community and to cure 85% of such patients.  Though an elaborate recording and reporting system is in place to monitor the success of the program, no record of patients who do not complete the diagnostic process is currently maintained. The present study, performed in a tertiary care hospital, attempted to estimate the proportion of this group of patients, who were labeled "diagnostic defaulters."Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted over one year on consecutive patients presenting with cough of more than two weeks' duration. A total of two sputum samples were obtained from each patient, including a spot sample and a morning sample collected on the following day. Zeihl-Neelsen staining, reporting and external quality assessment of smear-microscopy was done per RNTCP guidelines. Results: Of the 2,349 patients recruited, 175 defaulted on the second day. The positivity rates for the spot and morning samples were 18.3% and 18.9%, respectively (p > 0.001).  Of the 175 defaulters, 31 were found to be smear-positive, thereby implying that the proportion of diagnostic defaulters was 17.7%. All 21 diagnostic defaulters contacted by telephone were found to be unaware of their smear-positive status.Conclusion: The high proportion of diagnostic defaulters, the majority of whom were unaware of their sputum-positive status, emphasizes the need to recognize the importance of this group of patients to better control tuberculosis.
Assessment of knowledge and practice of private practitioners regarding tuberculosis control in Ethiopia
Authors: Yimer Solomon A , Holm-Hansen Carol , Bjune Gunnar
Published: January 2012

Introduction:  Ethiopia has a growing private health sector. In recent years, the directly observed treatment short course (DOTS) strategy was initiated in selected private health facilities in the country. The objective of the present study was to assess knowledge and practice of private practitioners in tuberculosis (TB) control in Amhara Region, Ethiopia.Methodology: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 112 private practitioners selected from all private health facilities in the region. The study was conducted between May and August 2008 and data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Group differences were analyzed using the chi-square test.Results: Fifty-nine (52.7%) of the private practitioners suspected TB in patients with three weeks' duration of cough. Only 37 (33.0%) of the private practitioners were able to precisely list the correct treatment regimens for all categories as recommended in the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Program guidelines. The correct frequency of TB treatment monitoring was provided by 44 (50%) of the respondents.  Overall 44 (39.3%) of the private practitioners did not have satisfactory knowledge about the directly observed treatment short course (DOTS) strategy. Those who attended DOTS training during the two years prior to the survey were more likely to have satisfactory knowledge compared to those who did not receive training (OR 4.45, 95% CI: 1.33, 14.87, p < 0.02). Conclusion: A significant proportion of private practitioners did not have satisfactory knowledge and practice about DOTS. The provision of regular DOTS refresher courses improves TB management for patients in the region.
Isolated tuberculous epididymo-orchitis: an unusual presentation of tuberculosis
Authors: Shenoy Vishnu Prasad , Viswanath Shashidhar , D'Souza Annet , Bairy Indira , Thomas Joseph
Published: January 2012

Isolated epididymo-orchitis is an unusual presentation of tuberculosis. A case of bilateral epididymitis and right-sided orchitis with scrotal involvement in a 38-year-old male patient is presented. Strong clinical suspicion of tuberculous etiology was confirmed by appropriate investigations of epididymal biopsy. The patient improved clinically with antitubercular therapy.
Tuberculosis: novel approaches to an old disease
Authors: Fadda Giovanni
Published: January 2012

This item has no abstract. Follow the links below to access the full text.
La régulation de l'aviation civile en Belgique
Authors: Lohest François , Aubin David
Published: January 2012

Résumé En 1923 naît la Sabena. La Belgique entend alors jouer un rôle clé dans le secteur européen de l’aviation civile. Force est pourtant de constater qu’elle n’y parviendra pas, malgré les politiques centralisées mises en œuvre dans ce but. La dynamique des activités aériennes a par ailleurs changé : la compagnie nationale n’est plus qu’un souvenir, et Bruxelles-National un aéroport parmi d’autres. Expliquer ce changement de configuration constitue le fil rouge de l’étude. Les auteurs retracent l’évolution des mesures de régulation depuis le XIXe siècle. Ils distinguent six grandes phases, de 1899 à aujourd’hui : pré-aéronautique, développement de l’aéronautique en Belgique, essor de l’aviation comme levier de développement économique, prise de conscience européenne et adaptations législatives nationales, régionalisation et libéralisation européenne, Ciel unique européen. Pour chaque phase, sont analysées les logiques qui sous-tendent les politiques publiques, les implications en termes de droit de propriété et les conséquences sur les fonctions et les acteurs impliqués dans cette régulation. Les conclusions mettent en lumière l’ampleur des changements provoqués par la libéralisation du secteur aérien civil, qui s’incarnent entre autres dans une nouvelle logique de développement et de gestion.
Sur la conformité de la foi avec la raison : Leibniz contre Bayle
Authors: Rateau Paul
Published: January 2012

Résumé En commençant les Essais de Théodicée par un Discours de la conformité de la foi avec la raison , Leibniz montrait que l’enjeu fondamental de sa confrontation avec Bayle était l’unité de la vérité. Pour produire un discours rationnel sur Dieu, ses attributs, sa providence, il était indispensable de répondre à celui qui disqualifiait par avance tout essai de justification de Dieu par la raison, en affirmant son impuissance radicale à établir des vérités solides (dans les sciences mêmes) et son divorce d’avec la foi. L’opposition entre les deux auteurs est révélatrice de deux conceptions distinctes de la raison, de la nature du mystère religieux et de la connaissance que nous pouvons en avoir. Deux interprétations du « triomphe de la foi » apparaissent : l’une qui fait de la soumission à la parole révélée l’acte « raisonnable » du chrétien conséquent (Bayle), l’autre qui n’y voit que le succès de la raison elle-même, triomphant des « apparences » (Leibniz).
Les paradoxes éducatifs de Rousseau
Authors: Fedi Laurent
Published: January 2012

Résumé Le présent article vise à montrer la cohérence des paradoxes éducatifs de Rousseau dans l’ensemble de sa philosophie. Ces paradoxes découlent du projet de naturaliser l’éducation afin d’éduquer selon des principes naturels un être destiné à vivre en société. Ils s’inscrivent dans une tentative de subversion généralisée qui vise à détourner de leur sens des institutions ou des techniques qui marchent à contresens (l’éducation, le langage, la propriété) pour les retourner dans le bon sens, c’est-à-dire à prendre la civilisation à revers pour retrouver des rapports de convenance qui soient l’équivalent de rapports naturels.
Topology Management in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Patra Chiranjib , Mondal Arindam , Bhaumik Parama , Chattopadhyay Matangini
Published: January 2012

Topology management is a key component of network management of wireless sensor networks. The primary goal of topology management is to conserve energy while maintaining network connectivity. Topology management consists of knowing the physical connections and logical relationships among the sensors and at the same time creating a subset of nodes actively participating in the network, thus creating less communication and conserving energy in nodes. Networks require constant monitoring in order to ensure consistent and efficient operations. The primary goal of topology management is to maintain network connectivity in an energy-efficient manner. Topology management is one of the key aspects of configuration management, which entails initial set-up of the network devices and continuous monitoring and controlling of these devices. The main objective of this chapter is to throw a light on the recent developments and future directions of research in these directions.
Reducing Complexity and Achieving Higher Energy Efficiency in Wireless Sensor Network Communications by Using High Altitude Platforms
Authors: Yang Zhe , Mohammed Abbas
Published: January 2012

In this chapter, a novel approach is explored to employ high-altitude platforms (HAPs) to remove the relaying burden and/or de-centralize coordination from wireless sensor networks (WSNs). The approach can reduce the complexity and achieve energy efficiency in communications of WSNs, whereby applications require a large-scale deployment of low-power and low-cost sustainable sensors. The authors review and discuss the main constraints and problems of energy consumptions and coordination in WSNs. The use of HAPs in WSNs provides favorable communication links via predominantly line of sight propagation due to their unique position and achieves benefits of reduced complexity and high energy efficiency, which are crucial for WSN operations.
IL-21 Promotes the Pathologic Immune Response to Pneumovirus Infection
Authors: Spolski Rosanne , Wang Lu , Wan Chi-Keung , Bonville Cynthia A. , Domachowske Joseph B. , Kim Hyoung-Pyo , Yu Zuxi , Leonard Warren J.
Published: January 2012

IL-21 is a cytokine with pleiotropic actions, promoting terminal differentiation of B cells, increased Ig production, and the development of Th17 and T follicular helper cells. IL-21 is also implicated in the development of autoimmune disease and has antitumor activity. In this study, we investigated the role of IL-21 in host defense to pneumonia virus of mice (PVM), which initiates an infection in mice resembling that of respiratory syncytial virus disease in humans. We found that PVM-infected mice expressed IL-21 in lung CD4+ T cells. Following infection, Il21r−/− mice exhibited less lung infiltration by neutrophils than did wild-type (WT) mice and correspondingly had lower levels of the chemokine CXCL1 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung parenchyma. CD8+, CD4+, and γδ T cell numbers were also lower in the lungs of PVM-infected Il21r−/− mice than in infected WT mice, with normal Th17 cytokines but diminished IL-6 production in PVM-infected Il21r−/− mice. Strikingly, Il21r−/− mice had enhanced survival following PVM infection, and moreover, treatment of WT mice with soluble IL-21R-Fc fusion protein enhanced their survival. These data reveal that IL-21 promotes the pathogenic inflammatory effect of PVM and indicate that manipulating IL-21 signaling may represent an immunomodulatory strategy for controlling PVM and potentially other respiratory virus infections.
Conventional Dendritic Cells Require IRAP-Rab14 Endosomes for Efficient Cross-Presentation
Authors: Weimershaus Mirjana , Maschalidi Sophia , Sepulveda Fernando , Manoury Bénédicte , van Endert Peter , Saveanu Loredana
Published: January 2012

Dendritic cells (DCs) use cellular pathways collectively referred to as cross-presentation to stimulate CD8+ T cells with peptide Ags derived from internalized, exogenous Ags. We have recently reported that DCs rely on aminoterminal trimming of cross-presented peptides by insulin-responsive aminopeptidase (IRAP), an enzyme localized in a regulated endosomal storage compartment. Considering a report contending that this role is limited to inflammatory DCs (Segura et al. 2009. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 106: 20377–20381), in this study, we examined the role of IRAP in steady-state DC subpopulations. Steady-state conventional DCs (cDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs expressed similar amounts of IRAP. IRAP colocalized with the endosomal markers Rab14 and syntaxin 6, both known to be associated with regulated endosomal storage compartments, in CD8+ and CD8− cDCs—however, to a greater extent in the former population. Likewise, IRAP recruitment to phagosomes was significantly stronger in CD8+ DCs. IRAP deficiency compromised cross-presentation of soluble and particulate Ag by both CD8+ and CD8− cDCs, again with a stronger effect in the former population. Thus, the requirement of IRAP in cross-presentation extends to steady-state cDCs. Moreover, these data suggest that increased recruitment of an IRAP+/Rab14+ compartment to Ag-containing vesicles contributes to the superior cross-presentation efficacy of CD8+ cDCs.
Alcohol Impairs the Myeloid Proliferative Response to Bacteremia in Mice by Inhibiting the Stem Cell Antigen-1/ERK Pathway
Authors: Melvan John Nicholas , Siggins Robert W. , Stanford William L. , Porretta Connie , Nelson Steve , Bagby Gregory J. , Zhang Ping
Published: January 2012

Enhancement of stem cell Ag-1 (Sca-1) expression by myeloid precursors promotes the granulopoietic response to bacterial infection. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. ERK pathway activation strongly enhances proliferation of hematopoietic progenitor cells. In this study, we investigated the role of Sca-1 in promoting ERK-dependent myeloid lineage proliferation and the effects of alcohol on this process. Thirty minutes after i.p. injection of alcohol, mice received i.v. challenge with 5 × 107 Escherichia coli for 8 or 24 h. A subset of mice received i.v. BrdU injection 20 h after challenge. Bacteremia increased Sca-1 expression, ERK activation, and proliferation of myeloid and granulopoietic precursors. Alcohol administration suppressed this response and impaired granulocyte production. Sca-1 expression positively correlated with ERK activation and cell cycling, but negatively correlated with myeloperoxidase content in granulopoietic precursors. Alcohol intoxication suppressed ERK activation in granulopoietic precursors and proliferation of these cells during bacteremia. Granulopoietic precursors in Sca-1−/− mice failed to activate ERK signaling and could not increase granulomacrophagic CFU activity following bacteremia. These data indicate that Sca-1 expression promotes ERK-dependent myeloid cell proliferation during bacteremia. Suppression of this response could represent an underlying mechanism for developing myelosuppression in alcohol-abusing hosts with severe bacterial infection.
The Living Eye “Disarms” Uncommitted Autoreactive T Cells by Converting Them to Foxp3+ Regulatory Cells following Local Antigen Recognition
Authors: Zhou Ru , Horai Reiko , Silver Phyllis B. , Mattapallil Mary J. , Zárate-Bladés Carlos R. , Chong Wai Po , Chen Jun , Rigden Rachael C. , Villasmil Rafael , Caspi Rachel R.
Published: January 2012

Immune privilege is used by the eye, brain, reproductive organs, and gut to preserve structural and functional integrity in the face of inflammation. The eye is arguably the most vulnerable and, therefore, also the most “privileged” of tissues; paradoxically, it remains subject to destructive autoimmunity. It has been proposed, although never proven in vivo, that the eye can induce T regulatory cells (Tregs) locally. Using Foxp3-GFP reporter mice expressing a retina-specific TCR, we now show that uncommitted T cells rapidly convert in the living eye to Foxp3+ Tregs in a process involving retinal Ag recognition, de novo Foxp3 induction, and proliferation. This takes place within the ocular tissue and is supported by retinoic acid, which is normally present in the eye because of its function in the chemistry of vision. Nonconverted T cells showed evidence of priming but appeared restricted from expressing effector function in the eye. Pre-existing ocular inflammation impeded conversion of uncommitted T cells into Tregs. Importantly, retina-specific T cells primed in vivo before introduction into the eye were resistant to Treg conversion in the ocular environment and, instead, caused severe uveitis. Thus, uncommitted T cells can be disarmed, but immune privilege is unable to protect from uveitogenic T cells that have acquired effector function prior to entering the eye. These findings shed new light on the phenomenon of immune privilege and on its role, as well as its limitations, in actively controlling immune responses in the tissue.
Temporal Predisposition to αβ and γδ T Cell Fates in the Thymus
Authors: Pereira Pablo , Boucontet Laurent , Cumano Ana
Published: January 2012

How T cell progenitors engage into the γδ or αβ T cell lineages is a matter of intense debate. In this study, we analyzed the differentiation potential of single thymocytes from wild-type and TCRγδ-transgenic mice at two sequential early developmental stages. Double-negative (DN) 3 progenitors from both wild-type and transgenic mice retain the capacity to engage into both pathways, indicating that full commitment is only completed after this stage. More importantly, DN2 and DN3 progenitors from TCRγδ transgenic mice have strong biases for opposite fates, indicating that developmentally regulated changes, other than the production of a functional TCR, altered their likelihood to become a γδ or an αβ T cell. Thus, unlike the differentiation in other hematopoietic lineages, T cell progenitors did not restrict, but rather switch their differentiation potential as they developed.
Plac8-Dependent and Inducible NO Synthase-Dependent Mechanisms ClearChlamydia muridarumInfections from the Genital Tract
Authors: Johnson Raymond M. , Kerr Micah S. , Slaven James E.
Published: January 2012

Chlamydia trachomatis urogenital serovars replicate predominantly in genital tract epithelium. This tissue tropism poses a unique challenge for host defense and vaccine development. Studies utilizing the Chlamydia muridarum mouse model have shown that CD4 T cells are critical for clearing genital tract infections. In vitro studies have shown that CD4 T cells terminate infection by upregulating epithelial inducible NO synthase (iNOS) transcription and NO production. However, this mechanism is not critical, as iNOS-deficient mice clear infections normally. We recently showed that a subset of Chlamydia-specific CD4 T cell clones could terminate replication in epithelial cells using an iNOS-independent mechanism requiring T cell degranulation. We advance that work using microarrays to compare iNOS-dependent and iNOS-independent CD4 T cell clones. Plac8 was differentially expressed by clones having the iNOS-independent mechanism. Plac8-deficient mice had delayed clearance of infection, and Plac8-deficient mice treated with the iNOS inhibitor N-monomethyl-l-arginine were largely unable to resolve genital tract infections over 8 wk. These results demonstrate that there are two independent and redundant T cell mechanisms for clearing C. muridarum genital tract infections: one dependent on iNOS, and the other dependent on Plac8. Although T cell subsets are routinely defined by cytokine profiles, there may be important subdivisions by effector function, in this case CD4Plac8.
Anti–IL-20 Monoclonal Antibody Suppresses Breast Cancer Progression and Bone Osteolysis in Murine Models
Authors: Hsu Yu-Hsiang , Hsing Chung-Hsi , Li Chien-Feng , Chan Chien-Hui , Chang Ming-Chung , Yan Jing-Jou , Chang Ming-Shi
Published: January 2012

IL-20 is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, and stroke. However, little is known about its role in breast cancer. We explored the function of IL-20 in tumor growth and metastasis, as well as in clinical outcome. Tumor expression of IL-20 was assessed by immunohistochemical staining among 198 patients with invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast, using available clinical and survival data. IL-20 expression was associated with advanced tumor stage, greater tumor metastasis, and worse survival. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed that clinical breast tumor tissue expressed higher levels of IL-20 and its receptors than did nontumorous breast tissue. IL-20 was also highly expressed in breast cancer bone-metastasis tissue. In vitro, IL-20 upregulated matrix metalloproteinase-9, matrix metalloproteinase-12, cathepsin K, and cathepsin G, and enhanced proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells, which were inhibited by anti–IL-20 mAb 7E. In vivo, we generated murine models to evaluate the therapeutic potential of 7E, using luminescence intensity, radiological scans, and micro-computed tomography. 7E reduced tumor growth, suppressed bone colonization, diminished tumor-mediated osteolysis, and lessened bone density decrement in mice injected with breast cancer cells. In conclusion, our results suggest that IL-20 plays pivotal roles in the tumor progression of breast cancer. IL-20 expression in breast cancer tissue is associated with a poor clinical outcome. Anti–IL-20 mAb 7E suppressed bone colonization and decreased osteolytic bone lesions. Therefore, IL-20 may be a novel target in treating breast tumor-induced osteolysis.
University Funding Systems: Impact on Research and Teaching
Authors: Beath John , Poyago-Theotoky Joanna , Ulph David
Published: January 2012

We address the following question: how does a higher education funding system influence the trade-off that universities make between research and teaching? We do so by constructing a model that allows universities to choose actively the quality of their teaching and research when faced with different funding systems characterised by the pivotal role of the university funding budget constraint. In particular, we derive the feasible sets that face universities under such systems and show how, as the parameters of the system (the research block grant element, the research quality premium and the incentives-triggering quality threshold) are varied, the nature of the university system itself changes. Different ‘cultures’ of the university system emerge such as the ‘research elite’ and the ‘binary divide’.
Odin-OSIRIS stratospheric aerosol data product and SAGE III intercomparison
Authors: Bourassa A. E. , Rieger L. A. , Lloyd N. D. , Degenstein D. A.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. The scattered sunlight measurements made by the Optical Spectrograph and InfraRed Imaging System (OSIRIS) on the Odin spacecraft are used to retrieve vertical profiles of stratospheric aerosol extinction at 750 nm. The recently released OSIRIS Version 5 data product contains the first publicly released stratospheric aerosol extinction retrievals, and these are now available for the entire Odin mission, which extends from the present day back to launch in 2001. A proof-of-concept study for the retrieval of stratospheric aerosol extinction from limb scatter measurements was previously published and the Version 5 data product retrievals are based on this work, but incorporate several important improvements to the algorithm. One of the primary changes is the use of a new retrieval vector that greatly improves the sensitivity to aerosol scattering by incorporating a forward modeled calculation of the radiance from a Rayleigh atmosphere. Additional improvements include a coupled retrieval of the effective albedo, a new method for normalization of the retrieval vector to improve signal-to-noise, and the use of an initial guess that is representative of very low background aerosol loading conditions, which allows for maximal retrieval range. Furthermore, the Version 5 data set is compared to Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE) III 755 nm extinction profiles during the almost four years of mission overlap from 2002 to late 2005. The vertical structure in coincident profile measurements is well correlated and the statistics on a relatively large set of tight coincident measurements show agreement between the measurements from the two instruments to within approximately 10% throughout the 15 to 25 km altitude range, which covers the bulk of the stratospheric aerosol layer for the mid and high latitude cases studied here.