bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensing of Zinc‐Containing Nanopollutants with an Ionic Liquid
Authors: Wang Michelle , Wang James , Wang H.-C. , Huang Hsin-Liang , Liu H.-L.
Published: December 2010

The rapid maturing of nanotechnology and its wide range of applications not bring benefits only, so the downsides are worth noting. Nanopollutants, generally undetectable, are often found as byproducts involved in various chemical or physical reactions. Many nanopollutants are concerned and suspected of causing negative impact on human health due to their unpredictable existence in the environment. Unlike the traditional sensing systems which can detect select gaseous molecules, effective nanoparticle sensing methods are still lacking in the literature. In this paper, sensing of zinc‐containing nanopollutants suspended in N2 with a room‐temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) ([C4mim][PF6] (1‐butyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium hexafluorophosphate)) has been studied. The sensitivities (RIL/Rnano) obtained by determination of the RTIL resistance to the absorbed phosphor fly ash (<200 nm) is 7.0, while the RTIL has higher sensitivity of 11 and 10, respectively, to ZnO and ZnS nanoparticles By component‐fitted X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy, it seems that the N‐methyl imidazole (mim) complexes are formed during sensing of the phosphor fly ash, ZnO and ZnS nanoparticles with the RTIL. The 1H and 31P NMR observations also suggest that the (mim) behaves as a carrier during sensing of nanopollutants with the RTIL.
Generalized Performance Characteristics of Refrigeration and Heat Pump Systems
Authors: Huleihil Mahmoud , Andresen Bjarne
Published: December 2010

A finite-time generic model to describe the behavior of real refrigeration systems is discussed. The model accounts for finite heat transfer rates, heat leaks, and friction as different sources of dissipation. The performance characteristics are cast in terms of cooling rate (r) versus coefficient of performance
(w). For comparison purposes, various types of refrigeration/heat pump systems are considered: the thermoelectric refrigerator, the reverse Brayton cycle, and the reverse Rankine cycle. Although the dissipation mechanisms are different (e.g., heat leak and Joule heating in the thermoelectric refrigerator, isentropic losses in the reverse Brayton cycle, and limits arising from the equation of state in the reverse Rankine cycle), the r−w characteristic curves have a general loop shape. There are four limiting types of operation: open circuit in which both r and w vanish in the limit of slow operation; short circuit in which again r and w vanish but in the limit of fast operation; maximum r; maximum w. The behavior of the considered systems is explained by means of the proposed model. The derived formulae could be used for a quick estimation of w and the temperatures of the working fluid at the hot and cold sides.
Oxidative Damage in Lymphocytes of Copper Smelter Workers Correlated to Higher Levels of Excreted Arsenic
Authors: Escobar Jorge , Varela-Nallar Lorena , Coddou Claudio , Nelson Pablo , Maisey Kevin , Valdés Daniel , Aspee Alexis , Espinosa Victoria , Rozas Carlos , Montoya Margarita , Mandiola Cristian , Rodríguez Felipe E. , Acuña-Castillo Claudio , Escobar Alejandro , Fernández Ricardo , Diaz Hernán , Sandoval Mario , Imarai Mónica , Rios Miguel
Published: December 2010

Arsenic has been associated with multiple harmful effects at the cellular level. Indirectly these defects could be related to impairment of the integrity of the immune system, in particular in lymphoid population. To characterize the effect of Arsenic on redox status on this population, copper smelter workers and arsenic unexposed donors were recruited for this study. We analyzed urine samples and lymphocyte enriched fractions from donors to determinate arsenic levels and lymphocyte proliferation. Moreover, we studied the presence of oxidative markers MDA, vitamin E and SOD activity in donor plasma. Here we demonstrated that in human beings exposed to high arsenic concentrations, lymphocyte MDA and arsenic urinary levels showed a positive correlation with SOD activity, and a negative correlation with vitamin E serum levels. Strikingly, lymphocytes from the arsenic exposed population respond to a polyclonal stimulator, phytohemaglutinin, with higher rates of thymidine incorporation than lymphocytes of a control population. As well, similarin vitroresponses to arsenic were observed using a T cell line. Our results suggest that chronic human exposure to arsenic induces oxidative damage in lymphocytes and could be considered more relevant than evaluation of T cell surveillance.
Fatal Fulminant Hepatic Failure in a Diabetic with Primary Dengue
Authors: Viswanathan Stalin , Iqbal Nayyar , Anemon P. Philip , Kumar G. Shyam
Published: December 2010

We report a 49-year-old diabetic with dengue hemorrhagic fever who developed fulminant hepatitis, severe coagulopathy, shock, and refractory metabolic acidosis and died on the eighth day of illness. This is the only second report of an adult with fatal fulminant hepatic failure due to dengue, and the first case arising from a primary dengue infection.
A Runway Configuration Management Model with Marginally Decreasing Transition Capacities
Authors: Weld Christopher , Duarte Michael , Kincaid Rex
Published: December 2010

The runway configuration management (RCM) problem governs what combinations of airport runways are in use at a given time, and to what capacity. Runway configurations (groupings of runways) operate under runway configuration capacity envelopes (RCCEs) which limit arrival and departure capacities. The RCCE identifies unique capacity constraints based on which tarmacs are used for arrivals, departures, or both, and their direction of travel. When switching between RCCEs, some decrement in arrival and departure capacities is incurred by the transition. A previous RCM model (Frankovich et al., 2009) accounted for this cost through a required period of inactivity. In this paper, we instead focus on the introduction and assessment of a model capable of marginally decreasing RCCE capacities during configuration transitions. A transition penalty matrix is introduced, specifying the relative costs (in terms of accepted arrival and departure capacities) for switching between RCCEs. The new model benefits from customizable transition penalties which more closely represent real-world conditions, at a reasonable computational cost.
Ta2O5Thin Films for Capacitive RF MEMS Switches
Authors: Persano Anna , Quaranta Fabio , Cola Adriano , Taurino Antonietta , De Angelis Giorgio , Marcelli Romolo , Siciliano Pietro
Published: December 2010

Shunt capacitive RF MEMS switches have been developed using III-V technology and employing (tantalum pentoxide) Ta2O5thin films as dielectric layers. In order to evaluate the potential of the Ta2O5thin films for the considered application, the compositional, structural, and electrical characterization of the deposited films has been performed, demonstrating that they are good candidates to be used as dielectric layers for the fabrication of RF MEMS switches. Specifically, Ta2O5films are found to show a leakage current density of few nA/cm2forE∼1 MV/cm and a high dielectric constant of 32. Moreover, the charging process has been investigated, finding that it follows a stretched exponential law. The fabricated switches show actuation voltages in the range 15–20 V, an insertion loss better than −0.8 dB up to 30 GHz, and an isolation of ~−40 dB at the resonant frequency which is around 25 GHz.
Affect and Metaphor Sensing in Virtual Drama
Authors: Zhang Li , Barnden John
Published: December 2010

We report our developments on metaphor and affect sensing for several metaphorical language phenomena including affects as external entities metaphor, food metaphor, animal metaphor, size metaphor, and anger metaphor. The metaphor and affect sensing component has been embedded in a conversational intelligent agent interacting with human users under loose scenarios. Evaluation for the detection of several metaphorical language phenomena and affect is provided. Our paper contributes to the journal themes on believable virtual characters in real-time narrative environment, narrative in digital games and storytelling and educational gaming with social software.
Different Finite Durations of Anticoagulation and Outcomes following Idiopathic Venous Thromboembolism: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Holley Aaron B. , King Christopher S. , Jackson Jeffrey L. , Moores Lisa K.
Published: December 2010

Introduction. Controversy remains over the optimal length of anticoagulation following idiopathic venous thromboembolism. We sought to determine if a longer, finite course of anticoagulation offered additional benefit over a short course in the initial treatment of the first episode of idiopathic venous thromboembolism. Data Extraction. Rates of deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, combined venous thromboembolism, major bleeding, and mortality were extracted from prospective trials enrolling patients with first time, idiopathic venous thromboembolism. Data was pooled using random effects meta-regression. Results. Ten trials, with a total of 3225 patients, met inclusion criteria. For each additional month of initial anticoagulation, once therapy was stopped, recurrent venous thromboembolism (0.03 (95% CI: −0.28 to 0.35); ), mortality (−0.10 (95% CI: −0.24 to 0.04); ), and major bleeding (−0.01 (95% CI: −0.05 to 0.02); ) rates measured in percent per patient years, did not significantly change.
Conclusions: Patients with an initial idiopathic venous thromboembolism should be treated with 3 to 6 months of secondary prophylaxis with vitamin K antagonists. At that time, a decision between continuing with indefinite therapy can be made, but there is no benefit to a longer (but finite) course of therapy.
Thermal Reshaping of Gold Nanorods in Micellar Solution of Water/Glycerol Mixtures
Authors: Al-Sherbini Al Sayed A.
Published: December 2010

Gold nanorods (Nds) with aspect ratios of 4, 3.5, and 2.8 were prepared by the electrochemical method. The nanorods were thermally studied in binary solvents of aqueous glycerol at different ratios (25%–75%). The results illustrated that the longitudinal surface plasmon resonance (SPL) is strongly dependent on the dielectric constant. The maximum absorption is red shifted with increasing the glycerol/water ratio. This was attributed to the decreasing value of the dielectric constant of the binary solvents. Moreover, by increasing the temperatures, the results showed relative instability of the gold nanorods. This attributed to the relative instability of the micelle capping the nanorods.
Reclassification of ICD-9 Codes into Meaningful Categories for Oncology Survivorship Research
Authors: Rassekh S. R. , Lorenzi M. , Lee L. , Devji S. , McBride M. , Goddard K.
Published: December 2010

Background. The International Classification of Disease, ninth revision (ICD-9) is designed to code disease into categories which are placed into administrative databases. These databases have been used for epidemiological studies. However, the categories used in the ICD9-codes are not always the most effective for evaluating specific diseases or their outcomes, such as the outcomes of cancer treatment. Therefore a re-classification of the ICD-9 codes into new categories specific to cancer outcomes is needed.Methods. An expert panel comprised of two physicians created broad categories that would be most useful to researchers investigating outcomes and morbidities associated with the treatment of cancer. A Senior Data Coordinator with expertise in ICD-9 coding, then joined this panel and each code was re-classified into the new categories.Results. Consensus was achieved for the categories to go from the 17 categories in ICD-9 to 39 categories. The ICD-9 Codes were placed into new categories, and subcategories were also created for more specific outcomes. The results of this re-classification is available in tabular form.Conclusions. ICD-9 codes were re-classified by group consensus into categories that are designed for oncology survivorship research. The novel re-classification system can be used by those involved in cancer survivorship research.
Breast Cancer in Developing Countries: Opportunities for Improved Survival
Authors: Shulman Lawrence N. , Willett Walter , Sievers Amy , Knaul Felicia M.
Published: December 2010

Breast cancer survival in the USA has continually improved over the last six decades and has largely been accredited to the use of mammography, advanced surgical procedures, and adjuvant therapies. Data indicate, however, that there were substantial improvements in survival in the USA even prior to these technological and diagnostic advances, suggesting important opportunities for early detection and treatment in low- and middle-income countries where these options are often unavailable and/or unaffordable. Thus, while continuing to strive for increased access to more advanced technology, improving survival in these settings should be more immediately achievable through increased awareness of breast cancer and of the potential for successful treatment, a high-quality primary care system without economic or cultural barriers to access, and a well-functioning referral system for basic surgical and hormonal treatment.
Volatile Oil Constituents of Rosa canina L.: Quality As Affected by the Distillation Method
Authors: Hosni Karim , Kerkenni Amel , Medfei Wafa , Ben Brahim Nadia , Sebei Houcine
Published: December 2010

The volatile oils of R. canina flowers were isolated by hydrodistillation (HD) and traditional dry distillation (DD) and analyzed by HRGC-FID and GC-MS. Compared to HD, DD at 50°C leads to the isolation of high quality oil which contains the highest content of oxygenated compounds (83%). The main components are the 2-phenethyl alcohol and eugenol. The percentage of the 2-phenethyl alcohol, a highly desirable component in rose oil, was significantly higher (58.4%) in DD extract when compared to that of HD one (13.6%). As temperature increased (100°C) during DD, the oil quality decreased. The most significant changes were observed in 2-phenethyl alcohol percentage (4.5%). Moreover, an increase of alkanes/alkenes and the production of furan derivatives were observed. So, DD at moderate temperature (50°C) seemed more suitable to improve the volatile oil quality and hence, to make more value of R. canina.
Gene Expression Signatures of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells during the Early Post-Transplant Period in Patients Developing Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Cadeiras Martin , Memon Sarfaraz , Zeeberg Barry , Klingler Tod , Sinha Anshu , Tabak Esteban G. , Unniachan Sreevalsa , Deng Mario C.
Published: December 2010

Background. Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) is a major cause of graft loss and death after heart transplantation. Currently, no diagnostic methods are available during the early post-transplant period to accurately identify patients at risk of CAV. We hypothesized that PBMC gene expression profiles (GEP) can identify patients at risk of CAV.Methods. We retrospectively analyzed a limited set of whole-genome PBMC microarrays from 10 post-transplant patients who did (n=3) or did not (n=7) develop advanced grade CAV during their long-term follow-up. We used significance analysis of microarrays to identify differentially expressed genes and High-Throughput GoMiner to assess gene ontology (GO) categories. We corroborated our findings by retrospective analysis of PBMC real-time PCR data from 33 patients.Results. Over 300 genes were differentially expressed (FDR < 5%), and 18 GO-categories including “macrophage activation”, “Interleukin-6 pathway”, “NF-KappaB cascade”, and “response to virus” were enriched by these genes (FDR < 5%). Out of 8 transcripts available for RT-PCR analysis, we confirmed 6 transcripts (75.0%) including FPRL1, S100A9, CXCL10, PRO1073, and MMP9 (P<.05).Conclusion. Our pilot data suggest that GEP of PBMC may become a valuable tool in the evaluation of patients at risk of CAV. Larger prospectively designed studies are needed to corroborate our hypothesis.
Effect of a Strategically Positioned Methoxy Substituent on the Photochemistry of 3-Aryl-3H-1-Oxacyclopenta[l]Phenanthren-2-Ones
Authors: Thumpakara Roshini K. , Jose Binoy , Unnikrishnan Perupparampil A. , Prathapan Sreedharan , Rath Nigam P.
Published: December 2010

Irradiation of 3-methoxy-3-aryl-3H-1-oxacyclopenta[l]phenanthren-2-one derivatives 5a–d resulted in singlet-mediated decarbonylation reaction leading to the formation of phenanthrene derivatives 9a–d. The structure of the photoproduct was unequivocally established on the basis of X-ray crystallographic analysis.
Gonadal Dysgenesis 46, XX Associated with Mayer‐Rokitansky‐Kuster‐Hauser Syndrome: One Case Report
Authors: Bousfiha N. , Errarhay S. , Saadi H. , Ouldim K. , Bouchikhi C. , Banani A.
Published: December 2010

Introduction. The association of gonadal dysgenesis and Mayer‐Rokitansky‐Kuster‐Hauser syndrome is very rare and appears to be coincidental, independent of chromosomal anomalies. Case Report. We report the case of a 19‐year‐old woman who presented primary amenorrhea and impuberism. The endocrine study revealed hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism. The karyotype was normal, 46XX. No chromosome Y was detected at the FISH analysis. Internal genitalia could not be identified on the pelvic ultrasound and pelvic MRI. Laparoscopy was undertaken and revealed concomitant ovarian dysgenesis and Mayer‐Rokitansky‐Kuster‐Hauser syndrome. There were no other morphological malformations. Conclusion. The pathogenesis of the association of gonadal dysgenesis and Mayer Rokitansky kuster hauser syndrome is still mysterious. The treatment is based essentially on hormone substitution therapy. The fertility prognosis is unfortunately compromised.
Some Identities on the q‐Genocchi Polynomials of Higher‐Order andq‐Stirling Numbers by the Fermionic p‐Adic Integral on ℤp
Authors: Rim Seog-Hoon , Jin Jeong-Hee , Moon Eun-Jung , Lee Sun-Jung
Published: December 2010

A systemic study of some families of q‐Genocchi numbers and families of polynomials of Nörlund type is presented by using the multivariate fermionic p‐adic integral on ℤp. The study of these higher‐order q‐Genocchi numbers and polynomials yields an interesting q‐analog of identities for Stirling numbers.
Maternal Serum Levels of TNF-Alpha and IL-6 Long after Delivery in Preeclamptic and Normotensive Pregnant Women
Authors: Vitoratos N. , Economou E. , Iavazzo C. , Panoulis K. , Creatsas G.
Published: December 2010

Aim. To evaluate maternal TNF-alpha and IL-6 plasma levels in normotensive pregnant women, women with preeclampsia, and to examine the temporal changes in their levels from theantepartum to the postpartum period correlated with the regression of preeclampsia.Method. A prospective study was performed in the 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens. Blood samples were obtained: (1) antepartum at the time of clinical diagnosis of the syndrome, 2. 12-14 weeks postpartum.Results. No statistically significant differences were found in IL-6 levels, whereas a difference was found in TNF-alpha levels between preeclamptic and controls in antepartum period (0.80 pg/ml versus 0.60 pg/ml, ). Long after delivery, TNF-alpha levels were significantly higher in preeclamptic compared to normotensive controls (0.86 pg/ml versus 0.60 pg/ml, ). No difference was observed in TNF-alpha before and after delivery in both groups. No difference was noticed in IL-6 levels in women of normotensive group long after delivery compared to that before delivery. Long after delivery IL-6 levels were statistically significant higher in preeclamptic women compared to normal controls (3.53 ± 0.52 pg/ml versus 1.69 ± 0.48 pg/ml, ).Conclusion. Preeclamptic women remain under a status of increased inflammatory stress up to 12-14 weeks postpartum despite the fact that all the other signs of preeclampsia are resolved.
Nanotechnology and Dental Implants
Authors: Lavenus Sandrine , Louarn Guy , Layrolle Pierre
Published: December 2010

The long-term clinical success of dental implants is related to their early osseointegration. This paper reviews the different steps of the interactions between biological fluids, cells, tissues, and surfaces of implants. Immediately following implantation, implants are in contact with proteins and platelets from blood. The differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells will then condition the peri-implant tissue healing. Direct bone-to-implant contact is desired for a biomechanical anchoring of implants to bone rather than fibrous tissue encapsulation. Surfaces properties such as chemistry and roughness play a determinant role in these biological interactions. Physicochemical features in the nanometer range may ultimately control the adsorption of proteins as well as the adhesion and differentiation of cells. Nanotechnologies are increasingly used for surface modifications of dental implants. Another approach to enhance osseointegration is the application of thin calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings. Bioactive CaP nanocrystals deposited on titanium implants are resorbable and stimulate bone apposition and healing. Future nanometer-controlled surfaces may ultimately direct the nature of peri-implant tissues and improve their clinical success rate.
CMOS Image Sensor with On-Chip Image Compression: A Review and Performance Analysis
Authors: Zhang Milin , Bermak Amine
Published: December 2010

Demand for high-resolution, low-power sensing devices with integrated image processing capabilities, especially compression capability, is increasing. CMOS technology enables the integration of image sensing and image processing, making it possible to improve the overall system performance. This paper reviews the current state of the art in CMOS image sensors featuring on-chip image compression. Firstly, typical sensing systems consisting of separate image-capturing unit and image-compression processing unit are reviewed, followed by systems that integrate focal-plane compression. The paper also provides a thorough review of a new design paradigm, in which image compression is performed during the image-capture phase prior to storage, referred to as compressive acquisition. High-performance sensor systems reported in recent years are also introduced. Performance analysis and comparison of the reported designs using different design paradigm are presented at the end.
Dust Explosion Characteristics of Agglomerated 35 nm and 100 nm Aluminum Particles
Authors: Wu Hong-Chun , Ou Hsin-Jung , Peng Deng-Jr , Hsiao Hsiao-Chi , Gau Chung-Yun , Shih Tung-Sheng
Published: December 2010

In the experiment, nanoparticles of 35 nm Al and 100 nm Al powders, respectively, formed particles with average sizes of 161 nm and 167 nm in agglomeration. The characteristics of dust cloud explosions with the two powder sizes, 35 nm and 100 nm, revealed considerable differences, as shown here: (dp/dt)max-35 nm= 1254 bar/s, (dp/dt)max-100 nm= 1105 bar/s; Pmax-35 nm= 7.5 bar, Pmax-100 nm= 12.3 bar, and MEC-35 nm= 40 g/m3, MEC-100 nm= 50 g/m3. The reason of Pmax-35 nmvalue is smaller than Pmax-100 nmmay be due to agglomeration. From an analysis of the explosive residue, the study found that nanoparticles of 35 nm Al powder became filamentous strands after an explosion, where most of 100 nm Al nanoparticles maintained a spherical structure, This may be because the initial melting temperature of 35 nm Al is 435.71°C, while that for 100 nm Al is 523.58°C, higher by 87.87°C. This study discovered that explosive property between the 35 nm Al and 100 nm Al powders after agglomeration were different.
Surface and Core Electronic Structure of Oxidized Silicon Nanocrystals
Authors: Nama Noor A. , Abdulsattar Mudar A. , Abdul-Lettif Ahmed M.
Published: December 2010

Ab initio restricted Hartree‐Fock method within the framework of large unit cell formalism is used to simulate silicon nanocrystals between 216 and 1000 atoms (1.6–2.65 nm in diameter) that include Bravais and primitive cell multiples. The investigated properties include core and oxidized surface properties. Results revealed that electronic properties converge to some limit as the size of the nanocrystal increases. Increasing the size of the core of a nanocrystal resulted in an increase of the energy gap, valence band width, and cohesive energy. The lattice constant of the core and oxidized surface parts shows a decreasing trend as the nanocrystal increases in a size that converges to 5.28 Ǻ in a good agreement with the experiment. Surface and core convergence to the same lattice constant reflects good adherence of oxide layer at the surface. The core density of states shows highly degenerate states that split at the oxygenated (001)‐(1 × 1) surface due to symmetry breaking. The nanocrystal surface shows smaller gap and higher valence and conduction bands when compared to the core part, due to oxygen surface atoms and reduced structural symmetry. The smaller surface energy gap shows that energy gap of the nanocrystal is controlled by the surface part. Unlike the core part, the surface part shows a descending energy gap that proves its obedience to quantum confinement effects. Nanocrystal geometry proved to have some influence on all electronic properties including the energy gap.
Endoscopic Right Lobectomy Axillary-Breast Approach: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Irawati Nina
Published: December 2010

Background. We reported our two initial experiences in the treatment of thyroid disease with endoscopic thyroidectomy. Minimally invasive video-assisted technique (MIVAT) was initially introduced by Miccoli. The modification was made by using axillary and breast technique.Method. Two young women patients, with 4 and 5 cm right lobe thyroid disease suspected to be benign. From physical examination, sonography, and FNAB findings, the two cases were categorized as benign. We performed endoscopic right lobectomy through incision of 5–10 mm on axillary line and breast using CO2 insufflation.Result. Duration of first operation was 300 minutes and the second one was 120 minutes, with minimal blood loss and no major complication. Patients were discharged 24 hours after operation. Cosmetic result was excellent. Postoperative complications were shoulder discomfort and neck swelling.Conclusion. We reported two cases of endoscopic right lobectomy as a safe, reproducible technique with an indication in a minority of patients candidates for thyroidectomy and is characterized by less postoperative discomfort.
Hydrodynamic Delivery of Chitosan‐Folate‐DNA Nanoparticles in Rats with Adjuvant‐Induced Arthritis
Authors: Shi Qin , Wang Huijie , Tran Covi , Qiu Xingping , Winnik Françoise M. , Zhang Xiaoling , Dai Kerong , Benderdour Mohamed , Fernandes Julio C.
Published: December 2010

50 kDa chitosan was conjugated with folate, a specific tissue‐targeting ligand. Nanoparticles such as chitosan‐DNA and folate‐chitosan‐DNA were prepared by coacervation process. The hydrodynamic intravenous injection of nanoparticles was performed in the right posterior paw in normal and arthritic rats. Our results demonstrated that the fluorescence intensity of DsRed detected was 5 to 12 times more in the right soleus muscle and in the right gastro muscle than other tissue sections. β‐galactosidase gene expression with X‐gal substrate and folate‐chitosan‐plasmid nanoparticles showed best coloration in the soleus muscle. Treated arthritic animals also showed a significant decrease in paw swelling and IL‐1β and PGE2 concentration in serum compared to untreated rats. This study demonstrated that a nonviral gene therapeutic approach using hydrodynamic delivery could help transfect more efficiently folate‐chitosan‐DNA nanoparticles in vitro/in vivo and could decrease inflammation in arthritic rats.
Teacher Efficacy as a Multigroup Model Using Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Eddy Colleen , Easton-Brooks Donald
Published: December 2010

Research measuring teacher efficacy suggests that participants are representative of one-efficacy group. Of the few studies, which measures efficacy as a multidimensional occurrence, teachers are presented as having either low or high efficacy. These studies often use mean or median splits to determine low and high efficacy groups. What is of concern is whether there is a significant probability that those in the low and high groups are actually representative of the data Further, a question exists of whether teacher efficacy is statistically representative of one-efficacy group or representative of more than two efficacy groups. Using Latent Class Analysis (LCA), this study found that mathematics efficacy groups of preservice teachers vary based on where they were in their academic program.
Novel Concept of Motor Functional Analysis for Spinal Cord Injury in Adult Mice
Authors: Shinozaki Munehisa , Takahashi Yuichiro , Mukaino Masahiko , Saito Nobuhito , Toyama Yoshiaki , Okano Hideyuki , Nakamura Masaya
Published: December 2010

In basic research on spinal cord injury (SCI), behavioral evaluation of the SCI animal model is critical. However, it is difficult to accurately evaluate function in the mouse SCI model due to the small size of mice. Although the open‐field scoring scale is an outstanding appraisal method, supplementary objective tests are required. Using a compact SCANET system, in which a mouse carries out free movement for 5 min, we developed a novel method to detect locomotor ability. A SCANET system samples the horizontal coordinates of a mouse every 0.1 s, and both the speed and acceleration of its motion are calculated at each moment. It was found that the maximum speed and acceleration of motion over 5 min varied by injury severity. Moreover, these values were significantly correlated with open‐field scores. The maximum speed and acceleration of SCI model mice using a SCANET system are objective, easy to obtain, and reproducible for evaluating locomotive function.
Histopathological Variants of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Review
Authors: Yanofsky Valerie R. , Mercer Stephen E. , Phelps Robert G.
Published: December 2010

Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common form of cancer in the Caucasian population, with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounting for the majority of NMSC-related metastases and death. While most SCC lesions are indolent tumors with low malignant potential, a wide diversity of SCC subtypes exist, several of which are associated with markedly more aggressive behaviors. Distinguishing these high-risk variants from their counterparts is possible through microscopic analysis, since each subtype possesses unique histopathological features. Early identification of high-risk lesions can allow for more rapid therapeutic intervention, reducing the likelihood of metastasis and death. The authors review specific histopathological features and associated clinical outcomes of the primary subdivisions of SCC.
A Hybrid-Extragradient Scheme for System of Equilibrium Problems, Nonexpansive Mappings, and Monotone Mappings
Authors: Peng Jian-Wen , Wu Soon-Yi , Fan Gang-Lun
Published: December 2010

We introduce a new iterative scheme based on both hybrid method and extragradient method for finding a common element of the solutions set of a system of equilibrium problems, the fixed points set of a nonexpansive mapping, and the solutions set of a variational inequality problems for a monotone and "Equation missing"-Lipschitz continuous mapping in a Hilbert space. Some convergence results for the iterative sequences generated by these processes are obtained. The results in this paper extend and improve some known results in the literature.
Human T Cell and Antibody-Mediated Responses to theMycobacterium tuberculosisRecombinant 85A, 85B, and ESAT-6 Antigens
Authors: Macedo Gilson C. , Bozzi Adriana , Weinreich Helena Rachel , Bafica Andre , Teixeira Henrique C. , Oliveira Sergio C.
Published: December 2010

Tuberculosis remains a major health problem throughout the world causing large number of deaths. Effective disease control and eradication programs require the identification of major antigens recognized by the protective responses againstM. tuberculosis. In this study, we have investigated humoral and cellular immune responses toM. tuberculosis-specific Ag85A, Ag85B, and ESAT-6 antigens in Brazilian patients with pulmonary (P,n=13) or extrapulmonary (EP,n=12) tuberculosis, patients undergoing chemotherapy (PT,n=23), and noninfected healthy individuals (NI,n=7). Compared to NI, we observed increased levels of IgG1 responses to Ag85B and ESAT-6 in P and PT groups. Regarding cellular immunity, Ag85A and ESAT-6 were able to discriminate P, PT, and EP patients from healthy individuals by IFN-γ production and P and PT groups from EP individuals by production of TNF-α. In summary, these findings demonstrate the ability of Ag85A, Ag85B, and ESAT-6 to differentiate TB patients from controls by IgG1, IFN-γ and TNF-α production.
Garding′s Inequality for Elliptic Differential Operator with Infinite Number of Variables
Authors: Zabel Ahmed , Alghamdi Maryam
Published: December 2010

We formulate the elliptic differential operator with infinite number of variables and investigate that it is well defined on infinite tensor product of spaces of square integrable functions. Under suitable conditions, we prove Garding′s inequality for this operator.
Induction of Granulysin and Perforin Cytolytic Mediator Expression in 10-Week-Old Infants Vaccinated with BCG at Birth
Authors: Semple Patricia L. , Watkins Marcia , Davids Virginia , Krensky Alan M. , Hanekom Willem A. , Kaplan Gilla , Ress Stanley
Published: December 2010

Background. While vaccination at birth withMycobacterium bovisBacilli Calmette-Guérin (BCG) protects against severe childhood tuberculosis, there is no consensus as to which components of the BCG-induced immune response mediate this protection. However, granulysin and perforin, found in the granules of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and Natural Killer (NK) cells, can kill intracellular mycobacteria and are implicated in protection againstMycobacterium tuberculosis.Methods. We compared the cellular expression of granulysin and perforin cytolytic molecules in cord blood and peripheral blood from 10-week-old infants vaccinated at birth with either Japanese or Danish BCG, administered either intradermally or percutaneously.Results. In cord blood, only CD56+NK cells expressed granulysin and perforin constitutively. These cytolytic mediators were upregulated in CD4+and CD8+cord blood cells byex vivostimulation with BCG but not with PPD. Following BCG vaccination of neonates, both BCG and PPD induced increased expression of granulysin and perforin by CD4+and CD8+T cells. There was no difference in expression of cytolytic molecules according to vaccination route or strain.Conclusions. Constitutive expression of perforin and granulysin by cord blood NK-cells likely provides innate immunity, while BCG vaccination-induced expression of these cytolytic mediators may contribute towards protection of the neonate against tuberculosis.
Morphological and Molecular Alterations in 1,2 Dimethylhydrazine and Azoxymethane Induced Colon Carcinogenesis in Rats
Authors: Perše Martina , Cerar Anton
Published: December 2010

The dimethyhydrazine (DMH) or azoxymethane (AOM) model is a well‐established, well‐appreciated, and widely used model of experimental colon carcinogenesis. It has many morphological as well as molecular similarities to human sporadic colorectal cancer (CC), which are summarized and discussed in this paper. In addition, the paper combines present knowledge of morphological and molecular features in the multistep development of CC recognized in the DMH/AOM rat model. This understanding is necessary in order to accurately identify and interpret alterations that occur in the colonic mucosa when evaluating natural or pharmacological compounds in DMH/AOM rat colon carcinogenesis. The DMH/AOM model provides a wide range of options for investigating various initiating and environmental factors, the role of specific dietary and genetic factors, and therapeutic options in CC. The limitations of this model and suggested areas in which more research is required are also discussed.
Xenotransplantation of Embryonic Pig Kidney or Pancreas to Replace the Function of Mature Organs
Authors: Hammerman Marc R.
Published: December 2010

Lack of donor availability limits the number of human donor organs. The need for host immunosuppression complicates transplantation procedures. Ultrastructurally precise kidneys differentiate in situ following xenotransplantation in mesentery of embryonic pig renal primordia. The developing organ attracts its blood supply from the host, obviating humoral rejection. Engraftment of pig renal primordia transplanted directly into rats requires host immune suppression. However, insulin-producing cells originating from embryonic pig pancreas obtained very early following initiation of organogenesis [embryonic day 28 (E28)] engraft long term in nonimmune-suppressed diabetic rats or rhesus macaques. Engraftment of morphologically similar cells originating from adult porcine islets of Langerhans (islets) occurs in rats previously transplanted with E28 pig pancreatic primordia. Here, we review recent findings germane to xenotransplantation of pig renal or pancreatic primordia as a novel organ replacement strategy.
Impact of HPV in Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Marklund Linda , Hammarstedt Lalle
Published: December 2010

The incidence of oropharyngeal cancers has increased in the western world and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has been recognised as a risk factor in the last decades. During the same period the prevalence of HPV in oropharyngeal tumours has increased and HPV has been suggested responsible for the increase. The HPV-positive tumours are today recognized as a distinct subset of head and neck cancers with its own clinopathological and risk profile and have a significantly improved prognosis regardless of treatment strategy. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding human papillomavirus biology, oncogenic mechanisms, risk factors, and impact of treatment.
Application of the Firefly Algorithm for Solving the Economic Emissions Load Dispatch Problem
Authors: Apostolopoulos Theofanis , Vlachos Aristidis
Published: December 2010

Efficient and reliable power production is necessary to meet both the profitability of power systems operations and the electricity demand, taking also into account the environmental concerns about the emissions produced by fossil-fuelled power plants. The economic emission load dispatch problem has been defined and applied in order to deal with the optimization of these two conflicting objectives, that is, the minimization of both fuel cost and emission of generating units. This paper introduces and describes a solution to this famous problem using a new metaheuristic nature-inspired algorithm, called firefly algorithm, which was developed by Dr. Xin-She Yang at Cambridge University in 2007. A general formulation of this algorithm is presented together with an analytical mathematical modeling to solve this problem by a single equivalent objective function. The results are compared with those obtained by alternative techniques proposed by the literature in order to show that it is capable of yielding good optimal solutions with proper selection of control parameters.
Evaluation of a Set of C9 N-acyl Neu5Ac2en Mimetics as Viral Sialidase Selective Inhibitors
Authors: Magesh Sadagopan , Sriwilaijaroen Nongluk , Moriya Setsuko , Ando Hiromune , Miyagi Taeko , Suzuki Yasuo , Ishida Hideharu , Kiso Makoto
Published: December 2010

Identification of selective influenza viral sialidase inhibitors is highly desirable in order to minimize or avoid the adverse effects due to the possible inhibition of endogenous human sialidases. We recently reported the evaluation of C9 N-acyl Neu5Ac2en mimetics as probes for human sialidases. Herein, we describe the in vitro activity of the same set of C9 N-acyl Neu5Ac2en mimetics against sialidases expressed by influenza virus A/PR/8/34 (H1N1), A/Memphis/1/72 (H3N2), and A/Duck/313/78 (H5N3) strains. Compound 8 is identified as a promising starting point for the development of viral sialidase selective inhibitors. Multiple sequence alignment and molecular docking techniques are also performed to explore the plausible interaction of compound 8 with viral sialidases.
Rodent Preclinical Models for Developing Novel Antiarthritic Molecules: Comparative Biology and Preferred Methods for Evaluating Efficacy
Authors: Bolon Brad , Stolina Marina , King Caroline , Middleton Scot , Gasser Jill , Zack Debra , Feige Ulrich
Published: December 2010

Rodent models of immune‐mediated arthritis (RMIA) are the conventional approach to evaluating mechanisms of inflammatory joint disease and the comparative efficacy of antiarthritic agents. Rat adjuvant‐induced (AIA), collagen‐induced (CIA), and streptococcal cell wall‐induced (SCW) arthritides are preferred models of the joint pathology that occurs in human rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Lesions of AIA are most severe and consistent; structural and immunological changes of CIA best resemble RA. Lesion extent and severity in RMIA depends on experimental methodology (inciting agent, adjuvant, etc.) and individual physiologic parameters (age, genetics, hormonal status, etc.). The effectiveness of antiarthritic molecules varies with the agent, therapeutic regimen, and choice of RMIA. All RMIA are driven by overactivity of proinflammatory pathways, but the dominant molecules differ among the models. Hence, as with the human clinical experience, the efficacy of various antiarthritic molecules differs among RMIA, especially when the agent is a specific cytokine inhibitor.
Presenilin‐2 Mutation Causes Early Amyloid Accumulation and Memory Impairment in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer′s Disease
Authors: Toda Toshihiko , Noda Yoshihiro , Ito Genzo , Maeda Masahiro , Shimizu Takahiko
Published: December 2010

In order to clarify the pathophysiological role of presenilin‐2 (PS2) carrying the Volga German Kindred mutation (N141I) in a conventional mouse model of Alzheimer′s disease (AD) expressing amyloid precursor protein (APP) with the Swedish mutation (Tg2576 line), we generated a double transgenic mouse (PS2Tg2576) by crossbreeding the PS2 mutant with Tg2576 mice. Here, we demonstrate that the PS2 mutation induced the early deposition of amyloid β‐protein (Aβ) at 2‐3 months of age and progressive accumulation at 4‐5 months of age in the brains of the mutant mice. The PS2 mutation also accelerated learning and memory impairment associated with Aβ accumulation at 4‐5 months of age in Tg2576 mice. These results suggest that the PS2 mutation causes early cerebral amyloid accumulation and memory dysfunction. PS2Tg2576 mice are a suitable mouse model for studying amyloid‐lowering therapies.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: From the Molecular Understanding of the Pathogenesis to Targeted Therapy of Progressive Disease
Authors: Göppner Daniela , Leverkus Martin
Published: December 2010

Due to intensified research over the past decade, the Hedgehog (HH) pathway has been identified as a pivotal defect implicated in roughly 25% of all cancers. As one of the most frequent cancer worldwide, the development of Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) due to activation of the HH pathway has been convincingly demonstrated. Thus the discovery of this central tumor-promoting signalling pathway has not only revolutionized the understanding of BCC carcinogenesis but has also enabled the development of a completely novel therapeutic approach. Targeting just a few of several potential mutations, HH inhibitors such as GDC-0449 achieved already the first promising results in metastatic or locally advanced BCC. This paper summarizes the current understanding of BCC carcinogenesis and describes the current “mechanism-based” therapeutic strategies.
An Application of Saint Venant′s Theory to Volterra′s Distortions
Authors: Bochicchio Ivana , Laserra Ettore , Pecoraro Massimo
Published: December 2010

This paper deals with the analysis of the sixth elementary Volterra′s
distortion for a circular hollow, homogeneous, elastic, isotropic cylinder. More
precisely, the specific load connected to the sixth distortion is proved to be equivalent
(in Saint Venant′s theory) to a right combined compressive and bending
stress and to a right combined tensile and bending stress. Our results have been
applied to a material made up of steel to compare the obtained numerical results
with Volterra′s predictions: the values calculated through Saint Venant′s theory
are more strictly related to those calculated by Volterra when the cylinder thickness
tends to zero.
General Viscosity Approximation Methods for Common Fixed Points of Nonexpansive Semigroups in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Li Xue-song , Huang Nan-jing , Kim JongKyu
Published: December 2010

This paper is devoted to the strong convergence of two kinds of general viscosity iteration processes for approximating common fixed points of a nonexpansive semigroup in Hilbert spaces. The results presented in this paper improve and generalize some corresponding results in (X. Li et al., 2009, S. Li et al., 2009, and Marino and Xu, 2006).
Conditional Gene Targeting: Dissecting the Cellular Mechanisms of Retinal Degenerations
Authors: Le Yun-Zheng
Published: December 2010

Retinal neuron degeneration and survival are often regulated by the same trophic factors that are required for embryonic development and are usually expressed in multiple cell-types. Therefore, the conditional gene targeting approach is necessary to investigate the cell-specific function of widely expressed and developmentally regulated genes in retinal degeneration. The discussion in this review will be focused on the use of Cre/lox-based conditional gene targeting approach in mechanistic studies for retinal degeneration. In addition to the basic experimental designs, this article addresses various factors influencing the outcomes of conditional gene targeting studies, limitations of current technologies, availability of Cre-drive lines for various retinal cells, and issues related to the generation of Cre-expressing mice. Finally, this review will update the current status on the use of Cre/lox-based gene targeting approach in mechanistic studies for retinal degeneration, which includes rod photoreceptor survival under photo-oxidative stress and protein trafficking in photoreceptors.
Phylogeography of the Pacific Blueline Surgeonfish,Acanthurus nigroris, Reveals High Genetic Connectivity and a Cryptic Endemic Species in the Hawaiian Archipelago
Authors: DiBattista Joseph D. , Wilcox Christie , Craig Matthew T. , Rocha Luiz A. , Bowen Brian W.
Published: December 2010

Understanding genetic connectivity is fundamental to the design of marine protected areas in the service of ecosystem-scale management. Here we evaluate such trends for a Pacific surgeonfish (Acanthurus nigroris;N=544) at two spatial scales: (1) within the Hawaiian archipelago, and (2) across the entire species range from the central to southwest Pacific. The mtDNA cytochromebdata reveal genetic divergence (d=0.041) between Hawaii and the rest of the Pacific range indicating a cryptic species pair, with one taxon endemic to Hawaii. Johnston Atoll, 1400 km SW of Hawaii, also has the Hawaiian species but is distinct from most Hawaiian locations in population genetic comparisons, indicating the limits of gene flow for this widespread reef species. No consistent population genetic differences were observed among Hawaiian sites or among the other Pacific island sites. We also detected a modest bias in gene flow from the southeast towards the northwest islands of the Hawaiian Archipelago, indicating that the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument may be a recipient, rather than a source of propagules to replenish reef resources.