bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast and Automatic Ultrasound Simulation from CT Images
Authors: Cong Weijian , Yang Jian , Liu Yue , Wang Yongtian
Published: November 2013

Ultrasound is currently widely used in clinical diagnosis because of its fast and safe imaging principles. As the anatomical structures present in an ultrasound image are not as clear as CT or MRI. Physicians usually need advance clinical knowledge and experience to distinguish diseased tissues. Fast simulation of ultrasound provides a cost-effective way for the training and correlation of ultrasound and the anatomic structures. In this paper, a novel method is proposed for fast simulation of ultrasound from a CT image. A multiscale method is developed to enhance tubular structures so as to simulate the blood flow. The acoustic response of common tissues is generated by weighted integration of adjacent regions on the ultrasound propagation path in the CT image, from which parameters, including attenuation, reflection, scattering, and noise, are estimated simultaneously. The thin-plate spline interpolation method is employed to transform the simulation image between polar and rectangular coordinate systems. The Kaiser window function is utilized to produce integration and radial blurring effects of multiple transducer elements. Experimental results show that the developed method is very fast and effective, allowing realistic ultrasound to be fast generated. Given that the developed method is fully automatic, it can be utilized for ultrasound guided navigation in clinical practice and for training purpose.
Effect of Annealing on the ZnS Nanocrystals Prepared by Chemical Precipitation Method
Authors: Shanmugam Nadana , Cholan Shanmugam , Kannadasan Natesan , Sathishkumar Kannadasan , Viruthagiri G.
Published: November 2013

Nanocrystals of ZnS have been synthesized through simple chemical precipitation method using thiourea as sulphur source. The synthesized products were annealed at different temperatures in the range of 200–800∘C. The as‐synthesized and annealed samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐Visible absorption (UV‐Vis), and room temperature photoluminescence (PL) measurements. The morphological features of ZnS annealed at 200 and 500∘C were studied by atomic force microscope (AFM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. The phase transformation of ZnS and formation of ZnO were confirmed by thermogravimetric (TG) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) curves.
The Immediate Effects of Orthoses on Pain in People with Lateral Epicondylalgia
Authors: Sadeghi-Demneh Ebrahim , Jafarian Fahimehsadat
Published: November 2013

Objective. Tennis elbow is a common cause of upper limb dysfunction and a primary reason for pain at the lateral aspect of the elbow. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three commonly used orthoses on pain severity. An elbow band, an elbow sleeve, and a wrist splint were assessed for their ability to reduce the level of reported pain. Method. A crossover randomized controlled trial was used. The orthoses were worn in a randomized order, and all participants were required to complete a control trial for which they wore a placebo orthosis. 52 participants with lateral epicondylalgia were recruited, and the level of pain at their elbow was recorded using the visual analogue scale (VAS). Results. The reported pain for all orthoses was lower than that of the placebo (). Pain reduction was significantly greater with a counterforce elbow band or a counterforce elbow sleeve compared to a wrist splint (). There was no significant difference between a counterforce elbow band and a counterforce elbow sleeve (). Conclusion. All the types of orthoses studied showed an immediate improvement on pain severity in people with lateral epicondylalgia. The counterforce elbow orthoses (elbow band and elbow sleeve) presented the greatest improvement, suggesting that either of them can be used as a first treatment choice to alleviate the pain in people with tennis elbow.
The Numerical Semigroup of Phrases′ Lengths in a Simple Alphabet
Authors: Robles-Pérez Aureliano M. , Rosales José Carlos
Published: November 2013

Let 𝒜 be an alphabet with two elements. Considering a particular class of words (the phrases) over such an alphabet, we connect with the theory of numerical semigroups. We study the properties of the family of numerical semigroups which arise from this starting point.
Secure and Efficient Control Transfer for IoT Devices
Authors: Wang Zhi , Ding Han , Han Jinsong , Zhao Jizhong
Published: November 2013

The prevalence of Internet of Things (IoT) requires flexible and fine-grained controls over the IoT devices. Existing works rely on specific controllers or programs to remotely control IoT devices, which is inefficient to support intelligent control in IoT environments. In contrast, utilizing a common portal device, for example, smart phone, to control variant IoT devices is a promising solution. However, it is challenging to guarantee the security when transferring the control of IoT devices. In this paper, we design a lightweight protocol to enable secure control transfer among the IoT devices, portal devices, and backend server. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our protocol in defending against mainstream attacks. Experimental results show the efficiency of our protocol in the authentication and key-updating during the control transfer.
Danish General Practitioners' Use of Prostate-Specific Antigen in Opportunistic Screening for Prostate Cancer: A Survey Comprising 174 GPs
Authors: Jessen Kasper , Søndergaard Jens , Larsen Pia Veldt , Thomsen Janus Laust
Published: November 2013

Background. The use of prostate-specific antigen test has markedly increased in Danish general practice in the last decade. Despite the national guidelines advice against PSA screening, opportunistic screening is supposed to be the primary reason for this increased number of PSA tests performed. Aims. Based on the increase in the amount of PSA conducted, we aimed to analyse how GPs in Denmark use the PSA test. Methods. A self-administrated questionnaire concerning symptomatic and asymptomatic patient cases was developed based on the national and international guidelines and the extensive literature review, and an in-depth interview conducted with a GP was performed. Results. None of the GPs would do a PSA measurement for an asymptomatic 76-year-old man. For asymptomatic 55- and 42-year-old men, respectively, 21.9% and 18.6% of GPs would measure PSA. Patient request and concern could be potential reasons for measuring PSA for asymptomatic patients. Almost all GPs stated that a PSA measurement is indicated for symptomatic 49- and 78-year-old men, respectively, 98.9% and 93.8%. Conclusion. Opportunistic PC screening is being performed in general practice to a high degree. Hence, current guidelines are not followed, and intense focus should be on more effective implementation strategies in order to avoid overuse of PSA.
Active Sensing Based Bolted Structure Health Monitoring Using Piezoceramic Transducers
Authors: Wang R. L. , Gu H. , Song G.
Published: November 2013

Bolted structures are commonly used in civil infrastructure. It is important to perform bolt inspection regularly to ensure the safety of structures. Traditional bolt inspection methods are time-consuming; moreover, bulky instruments are needed in these methods. In this paper, a piezoceramic based active sensing approach is developed to perform the health monitoring of bolted structures. Surface-bonded piezoceramic patches are used as health monitoring transducers. Wavelet packet analysis is used to analyze the sensor data to extract the features that indicate bolt looseness. Based on wavelet packet analysis results, a damage index is developed to quantitatively evaluate the damage status. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, a bolted connection experiment with piezoceramic transducers was performed. In the experiment, the looseness of the bolt is adjusted by a torque wrench. Experimental results show that the proposed approach is effective to detect and evaluate bolt looseness.
Immunosuppression of the Trimellitic Anhydride-Induced Th2 Response by Novel Nonanatural Products Mixture in Mice
Authors: Bae Min-Jung , Shin Hee Soon , Shon Dong-Hwa
Published: November 2013

Many natural dietary products prevent or cure allergic inflammation; however, the ability of mixtures of these natural medicinals to suppress allergic skin inflammation is unknown. We examined the inhibitory effects of nonanatural products mixture (NPM-9), which provides immunoregulatory activation, on Th2-mediated skin allergic inflammation. Oral administration of NPM-9 in mice reduced ear thickness and specific IgE production in trimellitic anhydride- (TMA-)induced contact hypersensitivity (CHS). NPM-9 also suppressed IL-4 and IL-1βproduction in splenocytes but prevented only TMA-induced IL-1βproduction in inflamed ears. To characterize the mechanism of this effect, we examined NPM-9 immunosuppression on an OVA-induced Th2 allergic state. Oral administration of NPM-9 inhibited Th2-mediated serum IgE overproduction. NPM-9 also downregulated the polarized Th2 response, whereas it upregulated Th1 response in splenocytes. These data suggest that NPM-9 may be a useful therapeutic agent for allergic inflammatory diseases through its suppression of the Th2-mediated allergic response.
Water Plasma Functionalized CNTs/MnO2 Composites for Supercapacitors
Authors: Hussain Shahzad , Amade Roger , Jover Eric , Bertran Enric
Published: November 2013

A water plasma treatment applied to vertically‐aligned multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) synthesized by plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition gives rise to surface functionalization and purification of the CNTs, along with an improvement of their electrochemical properties. Additional increase of their charge storage capability is achieved by anodic deposition of manganese dioxide lining the surface of plasma‐treated nanotubes. The morphology (nanoflower, layer, or needle‐like structure) and oxidation state of manganese oxide depend on the voltage window applied during charge‐discharge measurements and are found to be key points for improved efficiency of capacitor devices. MnO2/CNTs nanocomposites exhibit an increase in their specific capacitance from 678 Fg−1, for untreated CNTs, up to 750 Fg−1, for water plasma‐treated CNTs.
Phenotypes and Genotypes of Patients with Pantothenate Kinase‐Associated Neurodegeneration in Asian and Caucasian Populations: 2 Cases and Literature Review
Authors: Lee Chih-Hong , Lu Chin-Song , Chuang Wen-Li , Yeh Tu-Hsueh , Jung Shih-Ming , Huang Chia-Ling , Lai Szu-Chia
Published: November 2013

Objectives. Pantothenate kinase‐associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a rare disease caused by pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2, OMIM 606157) mutations. This study is aimed to investigate clinical presentations, pathologies, and genetics in patients with PKAN. Methods. Two patients with PKAN were reported. We reviewed the literature to include additional 19 patients with PKAN in Eastern Asia. These patients were divided into classic and atypical groups by the age of onset. We compared the data on PKAN patients of Asian and Caucasian populations. Results. We found iron deposits in the globus pallidus in our Patient 1 and a heterozygous truncating mutation (c.1408insT) in Patient 2. Literature review shows that generalized dystonia and bulbar signs are more common in classic PKAN patients, whereas segmental dystonia and tremors are more specific to atypical ones. Asian patients have less complex presentations—lower prevalence of pyramidal signs, mental impairment, and parkinsonism—than Caucasians. D378G in exon 3 is the most frequent mutation (28%) in Asians. Conclusions. Our study demonstrates that the distribution of dystonia is the major distinction between subgroups of PKAN. Caucasian patients have more complex presentations than Asians. Exon 3 and 4 are hot spots for screening PANK2 mutations in Asian patients.
The Radiological Impact of 210Pb and 210Po Released from the Iron‐ and Steel‐Making Plant ILVA in Taranto (Italy) on the Environment and the Public
Authors: Jia Guogang
Published: November 2013

Lead‐210 and 210Po are naturally occurring radionuclides. Due to volatile characteristic of lead and polonium, environmental pollution of 210Pb and 210Po released from the coal power plant, steel‐making industry and refractory material industry has been an exposure problem for the members of public. In this paper studies on the activity concentrations of 210Po and 210Pb in the raw materials, dust particles, surficial soils and atmospheric particulate samples collected in the area of the Iron‐ and Steel‐Making Plant ILVA Taranto (Italy) were made. These data have been used to evaluate the source‐term, distributions, inventories, mass balance, biological availability, ecological migration processes and public exposure risk of 210Pb and 210Po in the concerned environment.
Evaluation ofMo99andTc99mProductions Based on a High-Performance Cyclotron
Authors: Esposito J. , Vecchi G. , Pupillo G. , Taibi A. , Uccelli L. , Boschi A. , Gambaccini M.
Published: November 2013

Following preliminary feasibility studies which started at Legnaro National Laboratories (LNL) in 2011, the Italian National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) research activities are underway aiming at the alternative, accelerator-driven,Mo99/Tc99mproduction routes. One of the most promising approaches is to use100Mo-enriched (i.e., >99%) molybdenum metallic targets, bombarded with high-beam-current, high-energy proton cyclotrons. In order to get a comprehensive map of radionuclides expected, a detailed theoretical investigation has been carried out using the TALYS-TENDL 2012 excitation functions extended up to (p,6n), (p,p5n), and (p,2p4n) levels. A series of quality parameters have thus been calculated both at the end of beam (EOB) and at longer times. Results point out that accelerator-99Mo is of limited interest for a possible massive production because of the quite low specific activity with respect to reactor-99Mo. Accelerator-Tc99mquality parameters (i.e., radionuclidic purity (RNP), isotopic purity (IP), and specific activities) calculated are instead quite close to the generator-Tc. Calculations at 15, 20, and 25 MeV have thus been performed to assess the best operative irradiation condition forTc99mproduction while minimizing both the short-lived and long-lived Tc contaminant radionuclides. Although present in minimum quantities, Tc contaminants may indeed have an impact either on the pharmaceutical labeling procedures or on contributing to patient radiation dose during the diagnostic procedures.
Triazoloisoquinoline-Based/Ruthenium-Hybrid Sensitizer for Efficient Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Che-Lung , Lee Wen-Hsi , Yang Cheng-Hsien
Published: November 2013

Triazoloisoquinoline-based organic dyestuffs were synthesized and used in the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). After cosensitization with ruthenium complex, the triazoloisoquinoline-based organic dyestuffs overcame the deficiency of ruthenium dyestuff absorption in the blue part of the visible spectrum. This method also fills the blanks of ruthenium dyestuff sensitized TiO2film and forms a compact insulating molecular layer due to the nature of small molecular organic dyestuffs. The incident photon-to-electron conversion efficiency of N719 at shorter wavelength regions is 49%. After addition of a triazoloisoquinoline-based dyestuff for co-sensitization, the IPCE at 350–500 nm increased significantly. This can be attributed to the increased photocurrent of the cells, which improves the dye-sensitized photoelectric conversion efficiency from 6.23% to 7.84%, and the overall conversion efficiency increased by about 26%. As a consequence, this low molecular weight organic dyestuff is a promising candidate as coadsorbent and cosensitizer for highly efficient dye-sensitized solar cells.
Prodigiosin Rescues Deficient p53 Signaling and Antitumor Effects via Upregulating p73 and Disrupting Its Interaction with Mutant p53
Authors: Hong Bo , Prabhu Varun V. , Zhang Shengliang , van den Heuvel A. Pieter J. , Dicker David T. , Kopelovich Levy , El-Deiry Wafik S.
Published: November 2013

p53 reactivation offers a broad-based strategy for cancer therapy. In this study, we report the identification of prodigiosin that can reactivate p53 family-dependent transcriptional activity in p53-deficient human colon cancer cells. Prodigiosin and its structural analogue (compound R) induced the expression of p53 target genes accompanied by cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in p53-deficient cancer cells. Prodigiosin restored p53 signaling in cancer cells harboring hotspot TP53 mutations, with little to no detectable cytotoxicity in normal human fibroblasts and with no genotoxicity. Prodigiosin induced the expression of p73 and disrupted its interaction with mutant p53, thereby rescuing p53 pathway deficiency and promoting antitumor effects. The disruption of mutant p53/p73 interaction was specific to prodigiosin and not related to mTOR inhibition. Our findings suggest that mutant p53 needs to be targeted in the context of p73 stimulation to allow efficient restoration of the p53 pathway. In exhibiting this capability, prodigiosin and its analogue provide lead compounds to rescue deficiencies in the p53 pathway in cancer cells by upregulating p73 and targeting mutant p53/p73 interaction there. Cancer Res; 74(4); 1153–65. ©2013 AACR.
Inhibition of CSF-1 Receptor Improves the Antitumor Efficacy of Adoptive Cell Transfer Immunotherapy
Authors: Mok Stephen , Koya Richard C. , Tsui Christopher , Xu Jingying , Robert Lídia , Wu Lily , Graeber Thomas G. , West Brian L. , Bollag Gideon , Ribas Antoni
Published: November 2013

Colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) recruits tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells (TIM) that suppress tumor immunity, including M2 macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). The CSF-1 receptor (CSF-1R) is a tyrosine kinase that is targetable by small molecule inhibitors such as PLX3397. In this study, we used a syngeneic mouse model of BRAFV600E-driven melanoma to evaluate the ability of PLX3397 to improve the efficacy of adoptive cell therapy (ACT). In this model, we found that combined treatment produced superior antitumor responses compared with single treatments. In mice receiving the combined treatment, a dramatic reduction of TIMs and a skewing of MHCIIlow to MHCIIhi macrophages were observed. Furthermore, mice receiving the combined treatment exhibited an increase in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) and T cells, as revealed by real-time imaging in vivo. In support of these observations, TILs from these mice released higher levels of IFN-γ. In conclusion, CSF-1R blockade with PLX3397 improved the efficacy of ACT immunotherapy by inhibiting the intratumoral accumulation of immunosuppressive macrophages. Cancer Res; 74(1); 153–61. ©2013 AACR.
Interaction of Delta-like 1 Homolog (Drosophila) with Prohibitins and Its Impact on Tumor Cell Clonogenicity
Authors: Begum Asma , Lin Qun , Yu Chenye , Kim Yuri , Yun Zhong
Published: November 2013

Cancer stem cell characteristics, especially their self-renewal and clonogenic potentials, play an essential role in malignant progression and response to anticancer therapies. Currently, it remains largely unknown what pathways are involved in the regulation of cancer cell stemness and differentiation. Previously, we found that delta-like 1 homolog (Drosophila) or DLK1, a developmentally regulated gene, plays a critical role in the regulation of differentiation, self-renewal, and tumorigenic growth of neuroblastoma cells. Here, we show that DLK1 specifically interacts with the prohibitin 1 (PHB1) and PHB2, two closely related genes with pleiotropic functions, including regulation of mitochondrial function and gene transcription. DLK1 interacts with the PHB1–PHB2 complex via its cytoplasmic domain and regulates mitochondrial functions, including mitochondrial membrane potential and production of reactive oxygen species. We have further found that PHB1 and especially PHB2 regulate cancer cell self-renewal as well as their clonogenic potential. Hence, the DLK1–PHB interaction constitutes a new signaling pathway that maintains clonogenicity and self-renewal potential of cancer cells.

Implications: This study provides a new mechanistic insight into the regulation of the stem cell characteristics of cancer cells. Mol Cancer Res; 12(1); 155–64. ©2013 AACR.
Untreated Stage IV Melanoma Patients Exhibit Abnormal Monocyte Phenotypes and Decreased Functional Capacity
Authors: Chavan Rahul , Salvador Daniela , Gustafson Michael P. , Dietz Allan B. , Nevala Wendy , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: November 2013

Monocytes may contribute to tumor progression in part by mediating tumor-induced immunosuppression. Alterations to the monocyte populations and functions in untreated patients with late-stage melanoma are not fully understood. To characterize these alterations, we compared the frequency, phenotype, and functional capacity of peripheral blood monocytes and other myeloid cells in untreated, newly diagnosed stage IV melanoma patients (n = 18) with those in healthy volunteers. Stage IV untreated melanoma patients exhibited a sizeable decrease in the percentage of monocytes (P < 0.0001) that included a drop in the percentage of the CD14+CD16− classical monocyte pool (P = 0.006). Although there was not a significant difference in the CD14+HLA-DRlow/− monocyte population between the patients with melanoma and the healthy volunteers, the HLA-DR levels were considerably lower in the patients' CD14+CD16+ intermediate (P < 0.0001) and CD14lowCD16+ nonclassical monocyte populations (P = 0.001). Decreased surface expression of CD86 (P = 0.0006) and TNFRII (P = 0.0001) and increased expression of tissue factor and PD-L1 (P = 0.003) were identified on monocytes from patients with melanoma. Furthermore, these monocytes had decreased ability to upregulate CD80 expression and cytokine production following stimulation with agonist of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3). Peripheral blood dendritic cell subsets were decreased in untreated stage IV melanoma patients. Our study demonstrates that untreated late-stage melanoma patients exhibit monocytopenia in addition to phenotypic and functional deficiencies that may negatively affect their immune function. These findings open new avenues into examining the role of monocyte populations in melanoma development. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(3); 241–8. ©2013 AACR.
Population differentiation of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in Poland inferred by the analysis of mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA: implications for conservation
Authors: Prusak Beata , Mitrus Sławomir , Najbar Bartłomiej , Pacholewska Alicja , Deas Adrian , Skonieczna Katarzyna , Górecki Grzegorz , Grzybowski Grzegorz , Hryniewicz Adam , Wróblewski Robert , Grzybowski Tomasz
Published: November 2013

We investigated the genetic diversity of Polish populations of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) using complete sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and allelic variation at thirteen microsatellite loci. We collected data from 146 turtles from 28 locations covering most of the species’ range in Poland. Our results showed a low haplotype diversity and high levels of microsatellite diversity in all populations. We applied two Bayesian approaches using the multilocus data and determined relationships of mtDNA haplotypes by constructing a parsimony network. We observed relatively consistent results of the two Bayesian clustering methods and largely concordant differentiation patterns between mitochondrial and microsatellite markers. All eastern Polish populations were assigned in a highly supported eastern group, while the majority of turtles from western Poland were joined in a distinct western group. The most probable number of population clusters corresponded to the number of native mtDNA lineages. Additionally, we detected a hierarchical structure within the eastern lineage splitting the populations into two subgroups. Polish populations generally constitute genetically homogenous groups, characterized by a low population admixture, with only negligible impact from allochthonous turtles.
Relevance of Islamic Dispute Resolution Processes in Islamic Banking and Finance
Authors: Rasyid Abdul
Published: November 2013

Abstract

In the Islamic legal system, the ways in which disputes are resolved generally fall under two categories. The first category is through litigation, namely in Islamic courts (al-qaḍāʾ or adjudication), and the second is through amicable means such as negotiation, conciliation and compromise (naṣīḥah or sincere advice), mediation (ṣulḥ), arbitration (taḥkīm), mediation along with arbitration (ṣulḥ and taḥkīm), an ombudsman (muḥtasib), expert determination (Mufti’s fatwā, pl. fatāwā), etc. These mechanisms are called alternative dispute resolution (ADR) that refers to a range of dispute resolution processes which are alternative to traditional litigation. Over time, the term ADR is now coming to mean ‘appropriate dispute resolution’ or the most appropriate resolution process in the given circumstances. One of the principal goals of ADR is to provide parties with choices for the effective and efficient resolution of disputes. The above-mentioned dispute resolution processes have different characteristics. This article will discuss only the relevant mechanisms with a view to examine how far they may be suitable to resolve Islamic banking and finance disputes effectively, cheaply and quickly.
Moquiniastrum (Gochnatieae, Asteraceae): disentangling the paraphyletic Gochnatia
Authors: Sancho Gisela , FUNK VICKI. A. , ROQUE NÁDIA
Published: November 2013

The new genus Moquiniastrum, the result of recent phylogenetic analyses, is described. Although these analyses are based on cpDNA and nDNA, they also involve documentation of the distinctive morphological characters supporting this new genus. The recognition of Moquiniastrum is necessary to accurately reflect the relationships of the taxa found in the tribe Gochnatieae. Moquiniastrum includes twenty-one species that are usually gynodioecious and found mainly in Brazil but with some species elsewhere in South America. A description of Moquiniastrum, together with the corresponding new combinations, new lectotypifications of three names and one new neotypification is here provided.
Description of a new Tiger Snake (Colubridae, Telescopus) from south-western Africa
Authors: HAACKE WULF D.
Published: November 2013

Telescopus finkeldeyi sp. nov. is described from western central to northern Namibia and south-western Angola. Its maximum size is less than that of the other three taxa occurring in southern Africa. It is further distinguished by its fairly variable colour pattern. Although the number of ventrals and the undevided anal scale are similar to that of T. beetzii, the presence of 19 scale rows around the middle differs from the 21 rows of T. beetzii.
Sociological Ambivalence and the Order of Scientific Knowledge
Authors: Arribas-Ayllon Michael , Bartlett Andrew
Published: November 2013

Merton’s early work on the ambivalence of scientists illustrates the productivity of importing a psychological concept to sociology. For commentators on the experience of modern societies, ambivalence describes the contradictory affective dimension of late modernity. In this article, our aim is to understand the extent to which sociological ambivalence reveals the contradictory relations between two orders of scientific knowledge: the epistemic and the social order. We illustrate several sorts of ‘value tensions’ in psychiatric genetics, a domain where the search for biological causes has led to several important shifts in scientific reasoning. For scientists working at a major UK research centre, we show how these tensions have transformed the organization of the scientific community; ambivalence is both a reflexive and uncomfortable response to a new way of producing knowledge. We argue that tension and ambivalence are intrinsic aspects of science-making and may reflect processes other than revolution and totalizing transformation.
Progesterone Receptor Isoform Analysis by Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction in Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Canine Mammary Dysplasias and Tumors
Authors: Guil-Luna S. , Stenvang J. , Brünner N. , Sánchez-Céspedes R. , Millán Y. , Gómez-Laguna J. , Mulas J. Martín de las
Published: November 2013

Cloning and sequencing of the progesterone receptor gene in dogs have revealed 2 isoforms, A and B, transcribed from a single gene. Distribution of isoforms A and B in canine mammary lesions has hitherto been investigated only by Western blot analysis. This study analyzed progesterone receptor and its isoforms in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples from canine mammary lesions (4 dysplasias, 10 benign tumors, and 46 carcinomas) using 1-step SYBR Green quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Progesterone receptor was expressed in 75% of dysplasias, all benign tumors, and 59% of carcinomas. Carcinomas, and particularly simple epithelial-type carcinomas, displayed the lowest levels of expression. A high rate of agreement was recorded between RT-qPCR and immunohistochemical labeling. Isoforms A and B were successfully amplified, with correlation coefficients of 0.99 and amplification efficiencies close to 2, and were expressed in all lesion types analyzed. Predominance of A over B expression was observed in carcinomas and complex adenomas. Low-grade tumors exhibited higher progesterone receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) levels, but no difference was observed in the expression of isoform A versus B. Analysis of progesterone receptor mRNA isoforms by RT-qPCR was successful in routinely formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue samples and enabled the distribution of isoforms A and B to be identified for the first time in dysplasias, benign tumors, and malignant tumors of the canine mammary gland. These findings will facilitate future research into the role of progesterone receptor isoforms in the progression of canine mammary tumors.
Organizational practices across cultures
Authors: Fischer Ronald , Ferreira Maria Cristina , Assmar Eveline Maria Leal , Baris Gulfidan , Berberoglu Gunes , Dalyan Figen , Wong Corbin C , Hassan Arif , Hanke Katja , Boer Diana
Published: November 2013

This study examined organizational practices in a sample of 1239 employees from various organizations in Argentina, Brazil, Malaysia, New Zealand, Turkey, and the United States. Twenty-four items measuring employee-orientation, formalization, and innovation practices showed a clear factorial structure across all samples, along with good reliabilities. Significant organizational position differences were found for employee-orientation and innovation practices. Sector differences were found for formalization and innovation practices. Cultural differences were found for employee-orientation and innovation practices, which can be explained using macroeconomic indicators, tightness–looseness, and individualism. Our study demonstrates the importance of individual, organizational, economic, and cultural level for understanding perceptions of organizational practices across a wider range of societies.
Acetaminophen and Asthma in Children
Authors: Nguyen Lynn , Winston Marcia , Trella Jeanette
Published: November 2013

An increase in asthma prevalence and increase in use of acetaminophen has led way to researchers investigating the potential role of acetaminophen in asthma. This article reviews the existing literature to determine the type and quality of evidence available to determine an association between acetaminophen or paracetamol use and asthma in children. Seven studies that specifically reviewed data in the pediatric population as it related to acetaminophen or paracetamol use with the diagnosis of asthma were included in this review, all of which show some potential for association of acetaminophen and asthma in children. The questionnaires used in these studies stemmed from the ISAAC study and were modified to meet the needs of the population and the study endpoints. A variation of this questionnaire was used to ask about demographic, medication use, and possible risk factors for asthma. In most studies, parents were asked to recall this information over periods of time ranging from months to up to 6 years. The retrospective, observational designs of the studies make it impossible to concede that either acetaminophen or paracetamol is a causative agent of asthma in children. It is recommended that asthma educators counsel families on the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation on management of fever in children, which will hopefully lead to a decrease in exposure of any antipyretic in children.
Early accelerated senescence of circulating endothelial progenitor cells in premature coronary artery disease patients in a developing country - a case control study
Authors: Vemparala Kranthi , Roy Ambuj , Bahl Vinay Kumar , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Nath Neera , Sinha Subrata , Nandi Pradipta , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Reddy Kolli Srinath , Manhapra Ajay , Lakshmy Ramakrishnan
Published: November 2013

Background

The decreased number and senescence of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are considered markers of vascular senescence associated with aging, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease (CAD) in elderly. In this study, we explore the role of vascular senescence in premature CAD (PCAD) in a developing country by comparing the numerical status and senescence of circulating EPCs in PCAD patients to controls.

Methods

EPCs were measured by flow cytometry in 57 patients with angiographically documented CAD, and 57 controls without evidence of CAD, recruited from random patients ≤ 50 years of age at All India Institute of Medical Sciences. EPC senescence as determined by telomere length (EPC-TL) and telomerase activity (EPC-TA) was studied by real time polymerase chain reaction (q PCR) and PCR– ELISA respectively.

Result

The number of EPCs (0.18% Vs. 0.039% of total WBCs, p < 0.0001), and EPC-TL (3.83 Vs. 5.10 kb/genome, p = 0.009) were markedly lower in PCAD patients compared to controls. These differences persisted after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, smoking and medications. EPC-TA was reduced in PCAD patients, but was statistically significant only after adjustment for confounding factors (1.81 Vs. 2.20 IU/cell, unadjusted p = 0.057, adjusted p = 0.044).

Conclusions

We observed an association between increased vascular cell senescence with PCAD in a sample of young patients from India. This suggests that early accelerated vascular cell senescence may play an important mechanistic role in CAD epidemic in developing countries like India where PCAD burden is markedly higher compared to developed countries.
Imaging of temperature dependent hemodynamics in the rat sciatic nerve by functional photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Liao Lun-De , Orellana Josue , Liu Yu-Hang , Lin Yan-Ren , Vipin Ashwati , Thakor Nitish V , Shen Kaiquan , Wilder-Smith Einar
Published: November 2013

Background

Vascular hemodynamics is central to the regulation of neuro-metabolism and plays important roles in peripheral nerves diseases and their prevention. However, at present there are only a few techniques capable of directly measuring peripheral nerve vascular hemodynamics.

Method

Here, we investigate the use of dark-field functional photoacoustic microscopy (fPAM) for intrinsic visualizing of the relative hemodynamics of the rat sciatic nerve in response to localized temperature modulation (i.e., cooling and rewarming).

Results and conclusion

Our main results show that the relative functional total hemoglobin concentration (HbT) is more significantly correlated with localized temperature changes than the hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SO2) changes in the sciatic nerve. Our study also indicates that the relative HbT changes are better markers of neuronal activation than SO2 during nerve temperature changes. Our results show that fPAM is a promising candidate for in vivo imaging of peripheral nerve hemodynamics without the use of contrast agents. Additionally, this technique may shed light on the neuroprotective effect of hypothermia on peripheral nerves by visualizing their intrinsic hemodynamics.
The Lagrange-Galerkin method for fluid-structure interaction problems
Authors: San Martín Jorge , Scheid Jean-François , Smaranda Loredana
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we consider a Lagrange-Galerkin scheme to approximate a two-dimensional fluid-structure interaction problem. The equations of the system are the Navier-Stokes equations in the fluid part, coupled with ordinary differential equations for the dynamics of the solid. We are interested in studying numerical schemes based on the use of the characteristics method for rigid and deformable solids. The schemes are based on a global weak formulation involving only terms defined on the whole fluid-solid domain. Convergence results are stated for both semi and fully discrete schemes. This article reviews known results for rigid solid along with some new results on deformable structure yet to be published.
Severe hypersensitivity pneumonitis associated with everolimus therapy for neuroendocrine tumour: a case report
Authors: Sibertin-Blanc Camille , Norguet Emmanuelle , Duluc Muriel , Louis Guillaume , Seitz Jean-François , Dahan Laetitia
Published: November 2013

Background

Novel therapeutic agents are currently being investigated for neuroendocrine tumour treatment.

Case presentation

We report here on the case of a patient presenting with hypersensitivity pneumonitis while being treated with everolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor.

Conclusion

Side effects of everolimus should be familiar to clinicians, including nonspecialists, and be monitored carefully to allow for prompt management.
Spatio-temporal analysis of host preferences and feeding patterns of malaria vectors in the sylvo-pastoral area of Senegal: impact of landscape classes
Authors: Ngom El Hadji Malick , Ndione Jacques-André , Ba Yamar , Konaté Lassana , Faye Ousmane , Diallo Mawlouth , Dia Ibrahima
Published: November 2013

Background

The study of vector feeding behaviour is an important step in the understanding of the epidemiology of vector borne diseases. The main objective of this work was to study the spatio-temporal host preferences and blood-feeding patterns of malaria vectors in a pastoral area of Senegal where cattle breeding is the main human activity.

Methods

Malaria vectors were collected indoors by pyrethrum spray catch in 16 villages belonging to 4 different landscape classes (wooded savanna, shrubby savanna, bare soils and steppe). Blood meals sources were determined using a direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The blood meal origins of 1886 freshly fed An. gambiae s.l. were determined. Among these blood meals, most were taken on a single host: 40.1% on human and 37.1% on animal. The range in proportions of blood meals taken from human were 25–62.4% in wooded savanna villages, 23.5–61.9% in shrubby savanna villages, 31.3–70% in bare soils villages and 57.7–68.7 in steppe villages. Blood meals taken from bovines were very heterogeneous with two clusters localized in the Northeast and Southwest axis of the study area that corresponds to the distribution of the main water ponds. Patent mixed blood meals taken from human and non-human were significantly higher than those taken from two animals, the highest proportions being observed in September (shrubby savanna, bare soils and steppe villages) or October (wooded savanna villages).

Conclusions

These observations suggest that in this pastoral area, differences in feeding patterns of malaria vectors are merely linked to the specific localization of villages and are not influenced by landscape class distribution. In addition, the temporal variations in the anthropophilic rates are influenced by the presence of standing water in the study area.
Pharmacological enhancement of mGlu1 metabotropic glutamate receptors causes a prolonged symptomatic benefit in a mouse model of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1
Authors: Notartomaso Serena , Zappulla Cristina , Biagioni Francesca , Cannella Milena , Bucci Domenico , Mascio Giada , Scarselli Pamela , Fazio Francesco , Weisz Filippo , Lionetto Luana , Simmaco Maurizio , Gradini Roberto , Battaglia Giuseppe , Signore Michele , Puliti Aldamaria , Nicoletti Ferdinando
Published: November 2013

Background

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a genetic disorder characterized by severe ataxia associated with progressive loss of cerebellar Purkinje cells. The mGlu1 metabotropic glutamate receptor plays a key role in mechanisms of activity-dependent synaptic plasticity in the cerebellum, and its dysfunction is linked to the pathophysiology of motor symptoms associated with SCA1. We used SCA1 heterozygous transgenic mice (Q154/Q2) as a model for testing the hypothesis that drugs that enhance mGlu1 receptor function may be good candidates for the medical treatment of SCA1.

Results

Symptomatic 30-week old SCA1 mice showed reduced mGlu1 receptor mRNA and protein levels in the cerebellum. Interestingly, these mice also showed an intense expression of mGlu5 receptors in cerebellar Purkinje cells, which normally lack these receptors. Systemic treatment of SCA1 mice with the mGlu1 receptor positive allosteric modulator (PAM), Ro0711401 (10 mg/kg, s.c.), caused a prolonged improvement of motor performance on the rotarod and the paw-print tests. A single injection of Ro0711401 improved motor symptoms for several days, and no tolerance developed to the drug. In contrast, the mGlu5 receptor PAM, VU0360172 (10 mg/kg, s.c.), caused only a short-lasting improvement of motor symptoms, whereas the mGlu1 receptor antagonist, JNJ16259685 (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.), further impaired motor performance in SCA1 mice. The prolonged symptomatic benefit caused by Ro0711401 outlasted the time of drug clearance from the cerebellum, and was associated with neuroadaptive changes in the cerebellum, such as a striking reduction of the ectopically expressed mGlu5 receptors in Purkinje cells, increases in levels of total and Ser880-phosphorylated GluA2 subunit of AMPA receptors, and changes in the length of spines in the distal dendrites of Purkinje cells.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that pharmacological enhancement of mGlu1 receptors causes a robust and sustained motor improvement in SCA1 mice, and lay the groundwork for the development of mGlu1 receptor PAMs as novel “cerebellum-specific”, effective, and safe symptomatic drugs for the treatment of SCA1 in humans.
ATM-depletion in breast cancer cells confers sensitivity to PARP inhibition
Authors: Gilardini Montani Maria Saveria , Prodosmo Andrea , Stagni Venturina , Merli Dania , Monteonofrio Laura , Gatti Veronica , Gentileschi Maria Pia , Barilà Daniela , Soddu Silvia
Published: November 2013

Background

Mutations in the DNA damage response (DDR) factors, breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) and BRCA2, sensitize tumor cells to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. The ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase is a key DDR protein whose heterozygous germline mutation is a moderate–risk factor for developing breast cancer. In this study, we examined whether ATM inactivation in breast cancer cell lines confers sensitivity to PARP inhibitors.

Methods

Wild-type BRCA1/2 breast cancer cells (i.e., MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 lines) were genetically manipulated to downregulate ATM expression then assayed for cytostaticity/cytotoxicity upon treatment with PARP inhibitors, olaparib and iniparib.

Results

When ATM-depleted cells and their relative controls were treated with olaparib (a competitive PARP-1/2 inhibitor) and iniparib (a molecule originally described as a covalent PARP-1 inhibitor) a different response to the two compounds was observed. ATM-depletion sensitized both MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cells to olaparib-treatment, as assessed by short and long survival assays and cell cycle profiles. In contrast, iniparib induced only a mild, ATM-dependent cytostatic effect in MCF-7 cells whereas ZR-75-1 cells were sensitive to this drug, independently of ATM inactivation. These latest results might be explained by recent observations indicating that iniparib acts with mechanisms other than PARP inhibition.

Conclusions

These data indicate that ATM-depletion can sensitize breast cancer cells to PARP inhibition, suggesting a potential in the treatment of breast cancers low in ATM protein expression/activity, such as those arising in mutant ATM heterozygous carriers.
HPV positive tonsillar cancer in two laser surgeons: Case reports
Authors: Rioux Margo , Garland Andrea , Webster Duncan , Reardon Edward
Published: November 2013

A 53 year-old male gynecologist presented with human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 positive tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma. He had no identifiable risk factors with the exception of long term occupational exposure to laser plumes, having performed laser ablations and loop electrosurgical excision procedures (LEEP) on greater than 3000 dysplastic cervical and vulvar lesions over 20 years of practice. The second patient is a 62 year old male gynecologist with a 30 year history of laser ablation and LEEP who subsequently developed HPV 16 positive base of tongue cancer. He also had very few other risk factors for oropharyngeal cancer or HPV infection. HPV is a probable causative agent for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma and has been reported as being transmittable through laser plume. This paper suggests that HPV transmitted through laser plume can result in subsequent squamous cell carcinoma.
Simultaneous osseous metaplasia nodules of the submucosa and mesosalpinx after first trimester abortion: a case report
Authors: Feng Zhou , Jiale Qin , Xiaofei Zhang , Qingyun Guo , Lili Huang
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Here, we report a case of simultaneous osseous metaplasia nodules of the submucosa and mesosalpinx after a first trimester abortion.

Case presentation

A 36-year-old woman presented to the Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University with vaginal bleeding and infertility resulting from osseous metaplasia nodules of the submucosa and mesosalpinx after a first trimester abortion. Diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy and laparoscope procedures were performed. The osseous metaplasia nodules disappeared after hysteroscopy and laparoscope interventions; 2 weeks postoperatively, the patient underwent a transvaginal ultrasound examination and the abnormal ultrasound appearance had resolved.

Conclusions

Osseous metaplasia nodules in the submucosa and mesosalpinx can be a rare cause of vaginal bleeding and infertility. Autologous tissue, not persistent heterologous tissue, may be the true reason for metaplasia. Treatment is by ultrasound-guided curettage or by hysteroscopic and laparoscope removal.