bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of BD GeneOhm Cdiff and Seegene Seeplex ACE PCR Assays Using Toxigenic Clostridium difficile Culture for Direct Detection of
tcdB
from Stool Specimens
Authors: Shin Bo-Moon , Mun Se Jin , Yoo Soo Jin , Kuak Eun Young
Published: September 2012

We evaluated the performances of 2 PCR assays (BD GeneOhm and Seegene ACE) for direct detection of
tcdB
from stool specimens. The concordance rate between BD and Seegene was 96.3%. The sensitivities, specificities, positive predictive values (PPVs), and negative predictive values (NPVs) of BD and Seegene were 95.7%, 96.5%, 91.8%, and 98.2% and 90.0%, 97.1%, 92.6%, and 96.0%, respectively.
Multilocus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Clinical Isolates from 1962 to the Present: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Benitez Alvaro J. , Diaz Maureen H. , Wolff Bernard J. , Pimentel Guillermo , Njenga M. Kariuki , Estevez Alejandra , Winchell Jonas M.
Published: September 2012

In this study, we evaluated a recently developed multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) method for the molecular typing of
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
. The method is based on GeneScan analysis of five VNTR loci throughout the genome which define a specific genotype based on the number of tandem repeats within each locus. A retrospective analysis of 154
M. pneumoniae
clinical isolates collected over the last 50 years and a limited (
n
= 4) number of
M. pneumoniae-
positive primary specimens acquired by the CDC was performed using MLVA. Eighteen distinct VNTR types were identified, including two previously unidentified VNTR types. Isolates from several
M. pneumoniae
community outbreaks within the United States were also analyzed to examine clonality of a specific MLVA type. Observed
in vitro
variability of the Mpn1 VNTR locus prompted further analysis, which showed multiple insertions or deletions of tandem repeats within this locus for a number of specimens and isolates. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing variation within the Mpn1 locus, thus affecting precise and reliable classification using the current MLVA typing system. The superior discriminatory capability of MLVA provides a powerful tool for greater resolution of
M. pneumoniae
strains and could be useful during outbreaks and epidemiological investigations.
A Mouse Model for the Study of Contact-Dependent Transmission of Influenza A Virus and the Factors That Govern Transmissibility
Authors: Edenborough Kathryn M. , Gilbertson Brad P. , Brown Lorena E.
Published: September 2012

Influenza A virus transmission by direct contact is not well characterized. Here, we describe a mouse model for investigation of factors regulating contact-dependent transmission. Strains within the H3N2 but not H1N1 subtype of influenza virus were transmissible, and reverse-engineered viruses representing hybrids of these subtypes showed that the viral hemagglutinin is a determinant of the transmissible phenotype. Transmission to contact mice occurred within the first 6 to 54 h after cohousing with directly infected index mice, and the proportion of contacts infected within this period was reduced if the index mice had been preinfected with a heterologous subtype virus. A threshold level of virus present in the saliva of the index mice was identified, above which the likelihood of transmission was greatly increased. There was no correlation with transmission and viral loads in the nose or lung. This model could be useful for preclinical evaluation of antiviral and vaccine efficacy in combating contact-dependent transmission of influenza.
Probing the Early Temporal and Spatial Interaction of the Sindbis Virus Capsid and E2 Proteins with Reverse Genetics
Authors: Snyder Jonathan E. , Berrios Christian J. , Edwards Thomas J. , Jose Joyce , Perera Rushika , Kuhn Richard J.
Published: September 2012

A 7-Å cryoelectron microscopy-based reconstruction of Sindbis virus (SINV) was recently generated. Fitting the crystal structure of the SINV capsid protein (Cp) into the density map revealed that the F2-G2 loop of the Cp was shifted away from cytoplasmic domain of E2 (cdE2) in the 7-Å reconstruction relative to its position in the Cp crystal structure. Furthermore, the reconstruction demonstrated that residue E395 in region I of the cytoplasmic domain of the E2 envelope protein (cdE2-RI) and K252 of Cp, part of the Cp F2-G2 loop, formed a putative salt bridge in the virion. We generated amino acid substitutions at residues K250 and K252 of the SINV Cp and explored the resulting phenotypes. In the context of cells infected with wild-type or mutant virus, reversing the charge of these two residues resulted in the appearance of Cp aggregates around cytopathic vacuole type I (CPV-I) structures, the absence of nucleocapsid (NC) formation, and a lack of virus particle release in the infected mammalian cell. However, expressing the same Cp mutants in the cell without the envelope proteins or expressing and purifying the mutants from an
Escherichia coli
expression system and assembling
in vitro
yielded NC assembly in all cases. In addition, second-site mutations within cdE2 restored NC assembly but not release of infectious particles. Our data suggest an early temporal and spatial interaction between cdE2-RI and the Cp F2-G2 loop that, when ablated, leads to the absence of NC assembly. This interaction also appears to be important for budding of virus particles.
Chromatin Assembly on Herpes Simplex Virus 1 DNA Early during a Lytic Infection Is Asf1a Dependent
Authors: Oh Jaewook , Ruskoski Nicholas , Fraser Nigel W.
Published: September 2012

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a large DNA virus which is characterized by its ability to form latent infections in neurons of the peripheral nervous system. Although histones are found in the capsids of small DNA viruses (papovaviruses), none are found in the capsids of large HSV. However, after entry into the infected cell nucleus, the HSV genome begins to associate with nucleosomes during the earliest stages of infection. In contrast, late during infection, newly replicated viral DNA does not appear to associate with nucleosomes, suggesting that histones are deposited specifically on input viral DNA. The mechanisms of deposition and removing histones from the viral genome are unclear. Recently, histone chaperones, involved in the assembly and disassembly of nucleosomes, have been identified. Human antisilencing factor 1 (Asf1) is one such factor which is involved in both the assembly and disassembly of nucleosomes in cellular systems. In this study, we have examined the effect of small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of Asf1a on HSV infections in HeLa cells. Both viral replication and growth were found to be decreased. Also, viral DNA was significantly less protected from micrococcal nuclease (MNase) digestion up to 6 h postinfection (hpi). However, transcription of the immediate early (IE) genes ICP0 and ICP4 was significantly upregulated at 3 h postinfection. Also, these genes were found to be less protected from MNase digestion and, therefore, less associated with nucleosomes. These results suggest that Asf1a plays a role in regulating IE genes by assembling chromatin onto histone-free viral DNA by 3 h postinfection.
Radiofrequency denervation of the inguinal ligament for the treatment of ‘Sportsman's Hernia’: a pilot study
Authors: Comin Jules , Obaid Haron , Lammers Greg , Moore James , Wotherspoon Mark , Connell David
Published: September 2012

Background

Chronic groin pain is a common and debilitating condition in highly active athletes. Symptoms are often ascribed to the so-called Sportsman's Hernia, and these patients frequently undergo prolonged and often painful remedial physiotherapy, or, if the condition is refractory, surgery to repair the posterior inguinal wall.

Hypothesis

We hypothesised that radiofrequency denervation (RFD) of both the ilioinguinal nerve and inguinal ligament could be used to desensitise the groin region and enable the athlete to become pain-free.

Study design

A prospective randomised controlled trial of three groups of patients with chronic groin pain.

Methods

Thirty-six patients with chronic groin pain of greater than 6 months duration, with no identifiable structural cause and which was refractory to conservative treatment, were randomised into two groups. Group 1 was treated with RFD (n=18), while group 2 was treated with local anaesthetic (Bupivicaine) and steroid (Trimacinolone) injection (n=18). A further 10 patients with previous failed surgery for the same condition were treated with RFD without randomisation. All patients then underwent a standardised physiotherapy regimen. The Visual Analogue Scale at rest (VASr) and with activity (VASa) was used to assess pain, and London Adductor and Abdominal Groin Score was used to assess function, at baseline and at 1 week, 3 months and 6 months post-treatment.

Results

RFD treatment resulted in a significant improvement above baseline in all measures and at each time intervals up to 6 months, in both the randomised Group 1 and in the postsurgery group (p values ranging from <0.001 to 0.001). Injection of local anaesthetic and steroid resulted in a significant improvement above baseline in all measures, but only at 1 week (p values ranging from 0.001 to 0.021), and not at any of the later intervals. Improvements in all measures was significantly greater in Group 1 than in Group 2 at all follow-up intervals (p values ranging from <0.001 to 0.003). No persistent adverse events were recorded.

Conclusions

The use of RFD in the treatment of refractory Sportsman's Hernia is safe and efficacious at least in the short term, and is superior to anaesthetic/steroid injection. The results suggest that symptoms are related to tendon inflammation and ilioinguinal nerve compression, and can be abolished with pharmacological or radiofrequency treatment, without the need for surgery.

Clinical relevance

This novel technique could help athletes suffering from chronic groin pain return to play more quickly, both facilitating and allowing deferral of remedial physiotherapy treatments, and potentially avoiding the need for surgery.
Effect of stamped reply envelopes and timing of newsletter delivery on response rates of mail survey: a randomised controlled trial in a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wakabayashi Chizuko , Hayashi Kunihiko , Nagai Kazue , Sakamoto Naoko , Iwasaki Yoko
Published: September 2012

Objective

To examine the effects of stamped reply envelope and the timing of newsletter distribution.

Design

A randomised controlled trial in a prospective cohort study with a 2×2 factorial design of two interventions.

Setting

The Japan Nurses’ Health Study (JNHS), a prospective cohort study for women's health.

Participants

The present study included 6938 women who were part of the first-year entry cohort for the fifth wave of the biannual follow-up survey of the JNHS.

Intervention

The participants were randomly allocated into four groups; Group-1 (business-reply, newsletter with initial mailing), Group-2 (business-reply, newsletter with reminder), Group-3 (stamped envelopes, newsletter with initial mailing) and Group-4 (stamped envelopes, newsletter with reminder). The thank-you and reminder letters were mailed out at the end of the sixth week. This study was censored at the end of 12 weeks.

Main outcome measures

Main outcome measures were cumulative response at the end of 6 and 12 weeks after mailing out the questionnaire.

Results

The cumulative response at 12 weeks were 58.3% for Group-1, 54.1% for Group-2, 60.5% for Group-3 and 56.7% for Group-4 (p=0.001). The odds of the response was higher for stamped envelopes than for business-reply envelopes (OR (95% CI)=1.10(1.00 to 1.21)). The odds was higher for newsletter delivery with initial mailing than for with reminder (1.18(1.07 to 1.29)). The response in first 6 weeks for stamped envelope was significantly higher than for business-reply envelope (p=0.047). Although the response in 6 weeks for women received the newsletter with initial mailing was lower than for women who did not, the proportions did not differ significantly (p=0.291).

Conclusions

The style of return envelope affected response rates of mail survey. The results of this study suggest that practices of provision of the additional information, should be handled individually in advance, as a separate event from sending follow-up questionnaire or reminder letters.
An exploratory study of the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of advance care planning in family caregivers of patients with advanced illness in Singapore
Authors: Ng Raymond , Chan Susan , Ng Tzer Wee , Chiam Ai Ling , Lim Sthenos
Published: September 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of advance care planning (ACP) in caregivers of patients with advanced illness in Singapore.

Methods

Family caregivers of patients within the palliative care unit in a hospital and a hospice were purposively recruited and interviewed. Qualitative content analysis was carried out exploring key themes and subthemes emerging from the data.

Results

Between May 2009 and May 2010, 18 participants were interviewed. All participants interviewed had low awareness of ACP and the Advance Medical Directive but felt that ACP is important. Perceived benefits of ACP were that it respects autonomy, guides patients and families, and reduces burden of decision-making near the end-of-life. Barriers to ACP include non-disclosure of diagnosis as well as uncertainty of when and how ACP should be broached. There was a reticence to talk openly about issues surrounding end-of-life care as a result of cultural taboo and a fear that doing so will destroy hope. While all participants would consider ACP for themselves, some were ambivalent about discussing ACP for their loved ones, especially when their loved ones were of an older generation. Involvement of the family unit and physicians in ACP were viewed as important.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for public education on the benefits and process of ACP in Singapore. In formulating an approach to ACP, there is a need to take into account cultural sensitivities towards ACP discussions and the importance of closely involving the family unit in the process.
Tectonic development of the southern Karasu Valley, Turkey: successive structural events during basin formation
Authors: Boulton Sarah J.
Published: September 2012

New fault data are presented for the Karasu Valley, southern Turkey. Field measurements concentrate on the Eocene–Miocene (
c.
48–7 Ma) sediments exposed on the south-western rift margin, in order to investigate the early development of this basin. Fault data show two trends in orientation NW–SE and NE–SW with a subordinate north–south trend. Stress inversions combined with field relationships indicate at least three phases of faulting. Firstly, an extensional event characterized by NE–SW and NW–SE normal faults, which are interpreted to have formed owing to flexural uplift in the forebulge region to the Bitlis–Zagros collisional front prior to the Middle Miocene. Secondly, north–south normal faults invert to give a stress ratio [
R
=(σ
2
– σ
3
/σ
1
– σ
3
)] indicative of an extensional stress regime, transitional to strike-slip faulting. The final stress phase (Pliocene–Recent) is of strike-slip faulting and east–west-trending normal faulting. This stress regime is interpreted as the result of the propagation of the Dead Sea Fault or East Anatolian Fault. Previous models of rift formation have invoked either transpressional or transtensional origins for the area; the new data presented here indicate that the southernmost Karasu Valley developed through extension followed by transtension.

Supplementary material:

The fault data (including location, orientation, kinematic information) used in this study are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18532
.
Regulation of glomerulotubular balance. II. Impact of angiotensin II on flow-dependent transport
Authors: Du Zhaopeng , Wan Laxiang , Yan Qingshang , Weinbaum Sheldon , Weinstein Alan M. , Wang Tong
Published: September 2012

Underlying glomerulotubular balance (GTB) is the impact of axial flow to regulate Na+and HCO3−transport by modulating Na+-H+exchanger 3 (NHE3) and H-ATPase activity. It is not known whether the cascade of events following a change in flow relies on local angiotensin (ANG II) generation or receptor availability. Mouse tubules were microperfused in vitro at flows of 5 and 20 nl/min, and net fluid (Jv) and HCO3−(JHCO3) absorption and cell height were measured. Na+(JNa) and Cl−(JCl) absorption and changes in microvillous torque were estimated. Raising flow increased Na+and HCO3−reabsorption but did not change either Cl−transport or cell volume. Losartan reduced absolute Na+and HCO3−absorption at both low and high flows but did not affect fractional flow-stimulated transport. Compared with controls, in AT1aknockout (KO) mouse tubules, 53% of flow-stimulated Na+absorption was abolished, but flow-stimulated HCO3−absorption was retained at similar levels. The remaining flow-stimulated JHCO3was eliminated by the H-ATPase inhibitor bafilomycin. Inhibition of the AT2receptor by PD123319 increased both JNaand JHCO3but did not affect flow-mediated fractional changes. NHE3 expression at the protein level was reduced in AT1aKO mice kidneys. We conclude that 1) although the AT1areceptor is necessary for flow to impact NHE3, the effect on H+-ATPase is independent of AT1a; 2) the small flow-mediated changes in cell volume suggest a coordinate flow effect on both luminal and basolateral transporters; and 3) there is no evidence of flow-dependent Cl−transport, and thus no evidence for convective paracellular Cl−transport in mouse tubules.
Role of Ih in the firing pattern of mammalian cold thermoreceptor endings
Authors: Orio Patricio , Parra Andrés , Madrid Rodolfo , González Omar , Belmonte Carlos , Viana Félix
Published: September 2012

Mammalian peripheral cold thermoreceptors respond to cooling of their sensory endings with an increase in firing rate and modification of their discharge pattern. We recently showed that cultured trigeminal cold-sensitive (CS) neurons express a prominent hyperpolarization-activated current ( Ih), mainly carried by HCN1 channels, supporting subthreshold resonance in the soma without participating in the response to acute cooling. However, peripheral pharmacological blockade of Ih, or characterization of HCN1−/− mice, reveals a deficit in acute cold detection. Here we investigated the role of Ih in CS nerve endings, where cold sensory transduction actually takes place. Corneal CS nerve endings in mice show a rhythmic spiking activity at neutral skin temperature that switches to bursting mode when the temperature is lowered. Ih blockers ZD7288 and ivabradine alter firing patterns of CS nerve endings, lengthening interspike intervals and inducing bursts at neutral skin temperature. We characterized the CS nerve endings from HCN1−/− mouse corneas and found that they behave similar to wild type, although with a lower slope in the firing frequency vs. temperature relationship, thus explaining the deficit in cold perception of HCN1−/− mice. The firing pattern of nerve endings from HCN1−/− mice was also affected by ZD7288, which we attribute to the presence of HCN2 channels in the place of HCN1. Mathematical modeling shows that the firing phenotype of CS nerve endings from HCN1−/− mice can be reproduced by replacing HCN1 channels with the slower HCN2 channels rather than by abolishing Ih. We propose that Ih carried by HCN1 channels helps tune the frequency of the oscillation and the length of bursts underlying regular spiking in cold thermoreceptors, having important implications for neural coding of cold sensation.
Management Issues for Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Withers Adelaide Lindsay
Published: September 2012

The healthy adolescent will encounter major changes in biological and psychosocial domains. The adolescent period can be greatly affected by a chronic illness. Cystic fibrosis is a terminal illness that can significantly affect an adolescent’s biological, mental and psychosocial health. This paper discusses general issues to consider when managing an adolescent with a chronic medical condition, and specifically how cystic fibrosis may impact upon puberty, body image, risk-taking behaviours, mental health, independence, nonadherence, reproductive health, transition, lung transplantation, and end of life care.
Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Methanol Extract ofCissus repensin Mice
Authors: Chang Ching-Wen , Chang Wen-Te , Liao Jung-Chun , Chiu Yung-Jia , Hsieh Ming-Tsuen , Peng Wen-Huang , Lin Yu-Chin
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of theCRMeOH. Analgesic effect was evaluated in two models including acetic acid-induced writhing response and formalin-induced paw licking. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated byλ-carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema and histopathologic analyses. The results showed thatCRMeOH(500 mg/kg) decreased writhing response in the acetic acid assay and licking time in the formalin test.CRMeOH(100 and 500 mg/kg) significantly decreased edema paw volume at 4th to 5th hours afterλ-carrageenan had been injected. Histopathologically,CRMeOHabated the level of tissue destruction and swelling of the edema paws. These results were indicated that anti-inflammatory mechanism ofCRMeOHmay be due to declined levels of NO and MDA in the edema paw through increasing the activities of SOD, GPx, and GRd in the liver. Additionally,CRMeOHalso decreased IL-1β, IL-6, NFκB, TNF-α, COX-2, and iNOS levels. The contents of two active ingredients, ursolic acid and lupeol, were quantitatively determined. This paper demonstrated possible mechanisms for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects ofCRMeOHand provided evidence for the classical treatment ofCissus repensin inflammatory diseases.
Antioxidant Effects of Quercetin and Catechin Encapsulated into PLGA Nanoparticles
Authors: Pool Hector , Quintanar David , Figueroa Juan de Dios , Marinho Mano Camila , Bechara J. Etelvino H. , Godínez Luis A. , Mendoza Sandra
Published: September 2012

Polymeric nanoparticles (PLGA) have been developed for the encapsulation and controlled release of quercetin and catechin. Nanoparticles were fabricated using a solvent displacement method. Physicochemical properties were measured by light scattering, scanning electron microscopy and ζ‐potential, X‐ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Encapsulation efficiency and in vitro release profiles were obtained from differential pulse voltammetry experiments. Antioxidant properties of free and encapsulated flavonoids were determined by TBARS, fluorescence spectroscopy and standard chelating activity methods. Relatively small (d≈ 400 nm) polymeric nanoparticles were obtained containing quercetin or catechin in a non‐crystalline form (EE ≈ 79%) and the main interactions between the polymer and each flavonoid were found to consist of hydrogen bonds. In vitro release profiles were pH‐dependant, the more acidic pH, the faster release of each flavonoid from the polymeric nanoparticles. The inhibition of the action of free radicals and chelating properties, were also enhanced when quercetin and catechin were encapsulated within PLGA nanoparticles. The information obtained from this study will facilitate the design and fabrication of polymeric nanoparticles as possible oral delivery systems for encapsulation, protection and controlled release of flavonoids aimed to prevent oxidative stress in human body or food products.
Coordinated Regulation of PPAR Expression and Activity through Control of Chromatin Structure in Adipogenesis and Obesity
Authors: Eeckhoute Jérôme , Oger Frédérik , Staels Bart , Lefebvre Philippe
Published: September 2012

The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is required for differentiation and function of mature adipocytes. Its expression is induced during adipogenesis where it plays a key role in establishing the transcriptome of terminally differentiated white fat cells. Here, we review findings indicating that PPARγexpression and activity are intricately regulated through control of chromatin structure. Hierarchical and combinatorial activation of transcription factors, noncoding RNAs, and chromatin remodelers allows for temporally controlled expression of PPARγand its target genes through sequential chromatin remodelling. In obesity, these regulatory pathways may be altered and lead to modified PPARγactivity.
The Validity of the WHO-5 as an Early Screening for Apathy in an Elderly Population
Authors: Lucas-Carrasco Ramona , Allerup Peter , Bech Per
Published: September 2012

Aim. The objective of our study has been to evaluate the WHO-5 as a new early screening instrument for apathy in a group of elderly persons.Methods. The WHO-5 was compared to the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). The GDS contains five items measuring well-being and ten items measuring depression. The internal validity of the WHO-5 (total score being a sufficient statistic) was evaluated with both parametric and nonparametric item response theory models. The external validity of the WHO-5 and the GDS was evaluated by ROC using depression as index of validity.Results. The item response theory analyses confirmed that the total score of the WHO-5 is a sufficient statistic. The ROC analysis shows an adequate sensitivity (61%) and specificity (84%). The GDS15and its two subscales obtained low sensitivity (25–42%), but high specificity (90–98%).Conclusion. The WHO-5 was found both internally and externally valid when considering decreased positive well-being to be an early indication of apathy reflecting that the wind has begun to be taken out of the “motivation sail.”
Enchondroma Protuberans of Ulnar Bone: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Mohammadi Afshin , Hedayati Asl Abbas , Ghasemi-Rad Mohammad , Noroozinia Farahnaz
Published: September 2012

Introduction. Enchondroma protuberans is an extremely rare benign cartilaginous bone tumor. We report the first case report of enchondroma protuberans in the forearm.Presentation of Case. We report a case of enchondroma protuberans originating in the left ulnar bone of a young woman. A 20-year-old female referred to our hospital complaining of progressive sustained left forearm pain with a radiation to fourth and fifth finger. Conventional radiography revealed a well-defined eccentric osteolytic lesion in the distal diaphysis of ulna with expansion of overlying cortex (without calcification). Magnetic resonance imaging showed a well-defined ovoid intramedullary lesion, which was exophytically protruding from medial surface of left ulnar bone. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis.Discussion. Enchondroma protuberans typically present as a well-defined intramedullary osteolytic lesion that may be accompanied by a fine matricidal calcification. The connection between the intramedullary portion and the exophytic protrusion can be seen well by magnetic resonance imaging.Conclusion. Enchondroma protuberans should be considered in the differential diagnosis of osteochondroma, enchondroma, and periosteal chondroid tumors.
An Investigation on Cocombustion Behaviors of Hydrothermally Treated Municipal Solid Waste with Coal Using a Drop-Tube Reactor
Authors: Lu Liang , Jin Yuqi , Nakamura Masato R. , Castaldi Marco J. , Yoshikawa Kunio
Published: September 2012

This work aims at demonstrating the feasibility of replacing Indonesian coal (INC) with hydrothermally treated municipal solid waste (MSWH) in cocombustion with high ash Indian coal (IC). The combustion efficiencies and emissions (CO, NO) of MSWH, INC and their blends with IC for a series of tests performed under a range of temperatures and air conditions were tested in a drop-tube reactor (DTR). The results showed the following. The combustion efficiency of IC was increased by blending both MSWH and INC and CO emission was reduced with increasing temperature. For NO emission, the blending of MSWH led to the increase of NO concentration whereas the effects of INC depended on the temperature. The combustion behaviors of IC-MSWH blend were comparable to those of the IC-INC blend indicating it is possible for MSWH to become a good substitute for INC supporting IC combustion. Moreover, the CO emission fell while the NO emission rose with increasing excess air for IC-MSWH blend at 900°C and the highest combustion efficiency was obtained at the excess air of 1.9. The existence of moisture in the cocombustion system of IC-MSWH blend could slightly improve the combustion efficiency, reduce CO, and increase NO.
The Application of Approximate Entropy Theory in Defects Detecting of IGBT Module
Authors: Zhou Shengqi , Zhou Luowei , Liu Suncheng , Sun Pengju , Luo Quanming , Wu Junke
Published: September 2012

Defect is one of the key factors in reducing the reliability of the insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) module, so developing the diagnostic method for defects inside the IGBT module is an important measure to avoid catastrophic failure and improves the reliability of power electronic converters. For this reason, a novel diagnostic method based on the approximate entropy (ApEn) theory is presented in this paper, which can provide statistical diagnosis and allow the operator to replace defective IGBT modules timely. The proposed method is achieved by analyzing the cross ApEn of the gate voltages before and after the occurring of defects. Due to the local damage caused by aging, the intrinsic parasitic parameters of packaging materials or silicon chips inside the IGBT module such as parasitic inductances and capacitances may change over time, which will make remarkable variation in the gate voltage. That is to say the gate voltage is close coupled with the defects. Therefore, the variation is quantified and used as a precursor parameter to evaluate the health status of the IGBT module. Experimental results validate the correctness of the proposed method.
Study of Factors Making Space-Contaminated Optical System Unusable
Authors: Wu Dakun , Zhou Yanping , Sun Fangkui
Published: September 2012

Molecular and particulate contamination of space optical surfaces can be extremely detrimental to optical system performance. In order to determine whether optical system is unusable, we must do a lot of tests. For reducing experimental effort, computational criterion for unusable space optical system is put forward, which is based on experimentation and calculation by 2D-FDTD (finite-difference time domain). And then factors making optical system unusable are studied when distribution of light intensity is consistent with the criterion. Results show that small particulate is more detrimental to optical system than big one for particle with high permittivity is. The distribution of particles making optical system unusable is also obtained.
Green Function Formulism for Electromagnetic Wave Generated in Nanostructured Metamaterial of Finite Thickness: Isotropy and Anisotropy
Authors: Li Shunbo , Xiao Xiao , Hou Bo , Wen Weijia
Published: September 2012

A Green function formulism is developed to calculate the electromagnetic fields generated by sources embedded in nanostructured medium which could be represented by an effective electric permittivity tensor with finite thicknesses. The method begins with the decomposition of the generated mode into the eigenmodes in the medium, which have definite dispersions. To account the interface effect at boundaries, especially the mode conversion at the interface between anisotropic media, mode expansion method is combined into the theoretical framework. Thus, the electromagnetic wave in any given position can be gotten clearly. The formulism can provide conveniences of studying the novel properties of nanostructured metamaterials.
On-Farm Mitigation of Transmission of Tuberculosis from White-Tailed Deer to Cattle: Literature Review and Recommendations
Authors: Walter W. David , Anderson Charles W. , Smith Rick , Vanderklok Mike , Averill James J. , VerCauteren Kurt C.
Published: September 2012

The Animal Industry Division of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has been challenged with assisting farmers with modifying farm practices to reduce potential for exposure toMycobacterium bovisfrom wildlife to cattle. The MDARD recommendations for on-farm risk mitigation practices were developed from experiences in the US, UK and Ireland and a review of the scientific literature. The objectives of our study were to review the present state of knowledge onM. bovisexcretion, transmission, and survival in the environment and the interactions of wildlife and cattle with the intention of determining if the current recommendations by MDARD on farm practices are adequate and to identify additional changes to farm practices that may help to mitigate the risk of transmission. This review will provide agencies with a comprehensive summary of the scientific literature on mitigation of disease transmission between wildlife and cattle and to identify lacunae in published research.
The Contrastive Research in the Photocatalytic Activity of BiOBr Synthesized by Different Reactants
Authors: Ling-Li Wang , Wan-Hong Ma , Shu-Lian Wang , Yu Zhang , Man-Ke Jia , Rui-Ping Li , Ai-Qing Zhang , Ying-Ping Huang
Published: September 2012

BiOBr nanoplates, marked as α‐BiOBr and β‐BiOBr, were synthesized via hydrothermal method using cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) and NaBr as reactants, respectively. X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), N2 adsorption/desorption, UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐Vis DRS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were employed to characterize the obtained BiOBr. The results showed that α‐BiOBr and β‐BiOBr can absorb visible light and both the band gaps of them were about 2.76 eV. Under visible light irradiation, the photodegradation of organic dye sulforhodamine (SRB) and salicylic acid (SA) using α‐BiOBr and β‐BiOBr as the catalysts was carried out. The reaction kinetic constants of the degradation of SRB by α‐BiOBr and β‐BiOBr were 0.00602 min−1 and 0.0047 min−1, respectively, which indicated that the photocatalytic activity of α‐BiOBr was higher than that of β‐BiOBr. The UV‐Vis DRS and total organic carbon (TOC) were also monitored, and the TOC removal rate of α‐BiOBr and β‐BiOBr was 86% and 48%, respectively. At the same time, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and active radicals were measured and analyzed, which showed that the main active species was  ∙OH during the photocatalytic reaction.
Tethered Cord Syndrome Secondary to the Unusual Constellation of a Split Cord Malformation, Lumbar Myelomeningocele, and Coexisting Neurenteric Cyst
Authors: Okechi Humphrey , Albright A. Leland , Nzioka Ancent
Published: September 2012

We describe a seminal case report of a child with a tethered cord syndrome secondary to the unusual constellation of a split cord malformation, lumbar myelomeningocele, and coexisting neurenteric cyst. A 17-year-old adolescent girl with a several-month history of myelopathy and urinary incontinence was examined whose spinal MRI scan demonstrated a type II split cord malformation with a large bone spur and an intradural neurenteric cyst in addition to lumbar myelomeningocele. Untethering of the spinal cord was achieved via a lumbar laminectomy. Pathological examination confirmed the intradural cyst to be a neurenteric cyst. Postoperatively there was stabilization of the neurological symptoms. Prophylactic surgery with total resection of the neurenteric cyst when feasible and spinal cord un-tethering appears to be associated with excellent outcomes.
Reactive Oxygen Species, SUMOylation, and Endothelial Inflammation
Authors: Le Nhat-Tu , Corsetti James P. , Dehoff-Sparks Janet L. , Sparks Charles E. , Fujiwara Keigi , Abe Jun-ichi
Published: September 2012

Although the exact mechanism through which NADPH oxidases (Nox’s) generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) is still not completely understood, it is widely considered that ROS accumulation is the cause of oxidative stress in endothelial cells. Increasing pieces of evidence strongly indicate the role for ROS in endothelial inflammation and dysfunction and subsequent development of atherosclerotic plaques, which are causes of various pathological cardiac events. An overview for a causative relationship between ROS and endothelial inflammation will be provided in this review. Particularly, a crucial role for specific protein SUMOylation in endothelial inflammation will be presented. Given that SUMOylation of specific proteins leads to increased endothelial inflammation, targeting specific SUMOylated proteins may be an elegant, effective strategy to control inflammation. In addition, the involvement of ROS production in increasing the risk of recurrent coronary events in a sub-group of non-diabetic, post-infarction patients with elevated levels of HDL-cholesterol will be presented with the emphasis that elevated HDL-cholesterol under certain inflammatory conditions can lead to increased incidence of cardiovascular events.
The Problem of Scheduling Multiple Groups of Jobs on Multiple Processors at Different Speeds
Authors: Ding Wei
Published: September 2012

We mainly study the problem of schedulingngroups of jobs onnspecial-purpose processors andmgeneral-purpose processors at different speeds provided that the setup time of each job is less than times of its processing time. We first propose an improved LS algorithm. Then, by applying this new algorithm, we obtain two bounds for the ratio of the approximate solution to the optimal solutionT* under two different conditions.
Atherogenic Index and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol as Cardiovascular Risk Determinants in Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Impact of Therapy with Biologicals
Authors: Popa Calin D. , Arts Elke , Fransen Jaap , van Riel Piet L. C. M.
Published: September 2012

Cardiovascular (CV) diseases are a serious concern in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), accounting for approximately one-third to one-half of all RA-related deaths. Besides the attempts to identify new risk factors, the proper management of traditional CV risk factors such as dyslipidemia should become a priority in the periodic evaluation of every RA patient. Atherogenic index has been suggested to be less susceptible to disease activity variation during large periods of time, making him more attractive to be used in CV risk prediction in this group of patients as compared to individual lipids concentrations. Nevertheless, inflammation may negatively impact HDL antiatherogenic properties, suggesting that HDL function assessment is of particular importance when predicting CV risk in these patients. A tight control of inflammation becomes therefore crucial for a successful CV risk management. The present paper debates these hypotheses focusing on the effects of therapy with biologicals on the above mentioned parameters.
The Use of Fractal Dimension Analysis in Estimation of Blood Vessels Shape in Transplantable Mammary Adenocarcinoma in Wistar Rats after Photodynamic Therapy Combined with Cysteine Protease Inhibitors
Authors: Jurczyszyn Kamil , Osiecka Beata J. , Ziółkowski Piotr
Published: September 2012

Fractal dimension analysis (FDA) is modern mathematical method widely used to describing of complex and chaotic shapes when classic methods fail. The main aim of this study was evaluating the influence of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with cystein proteases inhibitors (CPI) on the number and morphology of blood vessels inside tumor and on increase of effectiveness of combined therapy in contrast to PDT and CPI used separately. Animals were divided into four groups: control, treated using only PDT, treated using only CPI and treated using combined therapy, PDT and CPI. Results showed that time of animal survival and depth of necrosis inside tumor were significantly higher in CPI+PDT group in contrast to other groups. The higher value of fractal dimension (FD) was observed in control group, while the lowest value was found in the group which was treated by cystein protease inhibitors. The differences between FD were observed in CPI group and PDT+CPI group in comparison to control group. Our results revealed that fractal dimension analysis is a very useful tool in estimating differences between irregular shapes like blood vessels in PDT treated tumors. Thus, the implementation of FDA algorithms could be useful method in evaluating the efficacy of PDT.
Evaluation of a Nonrigid Motion Compensation Technique Based on Spatiotemporal Features for Small Lesion Detection in Breast MRI
Authors: Steinbruecker F. , Meyer-Baese A. , Schlossbauer T. , Cremers D.
Published: September 2012

Motion-induced artifacts represent a major problem in detection and diagnosis of breast cancer in dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. The goal of this paper is to evaluate
the performance of a new nonrigid motion correction algorithm based on the optical flow method. For each of the small lesions, we extracted morphological and dynamical features describing both global and local shape, and kinetics behavior. In this paper, we compare the performance of each extracted feature set under consideration of several 2D or 3D motion compensation parameters for the differential diagnosis of enhancing lesions in breast MRI. Based on several simulation results, we determined the optimal motion compensation parameters. Our results have shown that motion compensation can improve the classification results. The results suggest that the computerized analysis system based on the non-rigid motion compensation technique and spatiotemporal features has the potential to increase the diagnostic accuracy of MRI mammography for small lesions and can be used as a basis for computer-aided diagnosis of breast cancer with MR mammography.
A Literature Review of the Numerical Analysis of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms Treated with Endovascular Stent Grafts
Authors: Roy David , Kauffmann Claude , Delorme Sébastien , Lerouge Sophie , Cloutier Guy , Soulez Gilles
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this paper is to present the basic principles and relevant advances in the computational modeling of abdominal aortic aneurysms and endovascular aneurysm repair, providing the community with up-to-date state of the art in terms of numerical analysis and biomechanics. Frameworks describing the mechanical behavior of the aortic wall already exist. However, intraluminal thrombus nonhomogeneous structure and porosity still need to be well characterized. Also, although the morphology and mechanical properties of calcifications have been investigated, their effects on wall stresses remain controversial. Computational fluid dynamics usually assumes a rigid artery wall, whereas fluid-structure interaction accounts for artery compliance but is still challenging since arteries and blood have similar densities. We discuss alternatives to fluid-structure interaction based on dynamic medical images that address patient-specific hemodynamics and geometries. We describe initial stresses, elastic boundary conditions, and statistical strength for rupture risk assessment. Special emphasis is accorded to workflow development, from the conversion of medical images into finite element models, to the simulation of catheter-aorta interactions and stent-graft deployment. Our purpose is also to elaborate the key ingredients leading to virtual stenting and endovascular repair planning that could improve the procedure and stent-grafts.
New Treatments for Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Wong Raymond L. M. , Gangwani R. A. , Yu Lester W. H. , Lai Jimmy S. M.
Published: September 2012

Purpose. To review the newer treatments for bacterial keratitis.Data Sources. PubMed literature search up to April 2012.Study Selection. Key words used for literature search: “infectious keratitis”, “microbial keratitis”, “infective keratitis”, “new treatments for infectious keratitis”, “fourth generation fluoroquinolones”, “moxifloxacin”, “gatifloxacin”, “collagen cross-linking”, and “photodynamic therapy”.Data Extraction. Over 2400 articles were retrieved. Large scale studies or publications at more recent dates were selected.Data Synthesis. Broad spectrum antibiotics have been the main stay of treatment for bacterial keratitis but with the emergence of bacterial resistance; there is a need for newer antimicrobial agents and treatment methods. Fourth-generation fluoroquinolones and corneal collagen cross-linking are amongst the new treatments. In vitro studies and prospective clinical trials have shown that fourth-generation fluoroquinolones are better than the older generation fluoroquinolones and are as potent as combined fortified antibiotics against common pathogens that cause bacterial keratitis. Collagen cross-linking was shown to improve healing of infectious corneal ulcer in treatment-resistant cases or as an adjunct to antibiotics treatment.Conclusion. Fourth-generation fluoroquinolones are good alternatives to standard treatment of bacterial keratitis using combined fortified topical antibiotics. Collagen cross-linking may be considered in treatment-resistant infectious keratitis or as an adjunct to antibiotics therapy.
The TMPRSS2:ERG Rearrangement, ERG Expression, and Prostate Cancer Outcomes: A Cohort Study and Meta-analysis
Authors: Pettersson Andreas , Graff Rebecca E. , Bauer Scott R. , Pitt Michael J. , Lis Rosina T. , Stack Edward C. , Martin Neil E. , Kunz Lauren , Penney Kathryn L. , Ligon Azra H. , Suppan Catherine , Flavin Richard , Sesso Howard D. , Rider Jennifer R. , Sweeney Christopher , Stampfer Meir J. , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Kantoff Philip W. , Sanda Martin G. , Giovannucci Edward L. , Ding Eric L. , Loda Massimo , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: September 2012

Background: Whether the genomic rearrangement transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2):v-ets erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene homolog (ERG) has prognostic value in prostate cancer is unclear.

Methods: Among men with prostate cancer in the prospective Physicians' Health and Health Professionals Follow-Up Studies, we identified rearrangement status by immunohistochemical assessment of ERG protein expression. We used Cox models to examine associations of ERG overexpression with biochemical recurrence and lethal disease (distant metastases or cancer-specific mortality). In a meta-analysis including 47 additional studies, we used random-effects models to estimate associations between rearrangement status and outcomes.

Results: The cohort consisted of 1,180 men treated with radical prostatectomy between 1983 and 2005. During a median follow-up of 12.6 years, 266 men experienced recurrence and 85 men developed lethal disease. We found no significant association between ERG overexpression and biochemical recurrence [hazard ratio (HR), 0.99; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.78–1.26] or lethal disease (HR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.61–1.43). The meta-analysis of prostatectomy series included 5,074 men followed for biochemical recurrence (1,623 events), and 2,049 men followed for lethal disease (131 events). TMPRSS2:ERG was associated with stage at diagnosis [risk ratio (RR)≥T3 vs. T2, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.16–1.30) but not with biochemical recurrence (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.86–1.17) or lethal disease (RR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.47–2.09).

Conclusions: These results suggest that TMPRSS2:ERG, or ERG overexpression, is associated with tumor stage but does not strongly predict recurrence or mortality among men treated with radical prostatectomy.

Impact: This is the largest prospective cohort study to examine associations of ERG overexpression and lethal prostate cancer among men treated with radical prostatectomy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(9); 1497–509. ©2012 AACR.