bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Storage Temperature for Cultured ARPE-19 Cells
Authors: Pasovic Lara , Utheim Tor Paaske , Maria Rima , Lyberg Torstein , Messelt Edward B. , Aabel Peder , Chen Dong Feng , Chen Xiangjun , Eidet Jon Roger
Published: October 2013

Purpose. The establishment of future retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) replacement therapy is partly dependent on the availability of tissue-engineered RPE cells, which may be enhanced by the development of suitable storage methods for RPE. This study investigates the effect of different storage temperatures on the viability, morphology, and phenotype of cultured RPE.Methods. ARPE-19 cells were cultured under standard conditions and stored in HEPES-buffered MEM at nine temperatures (4°C, 8°C, 12°C, 16°C, 20°C, 24°C, 28°C, 32°C, and 37°C) for seven days. Viability and phenotype were assessed by a microplate fluorometer and epifluorescence microscopy, while morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy.Results. The percentage of viable cells preserved after storage was highest in the 16°C group (48.7%±9.8%;P<0.01compared to 4°C, 8°C, and 24°C–37°C;P<0.05compared to 12°C). Ultrastructure was best preserved at 12°C, 16°C, and 20°C. Expression of actin, ZO-1, PCNA, caspase-3, and RPE65 was maintained after storage at 16°C compared to control cells that were not stored.Conclusion. Out of nine temperatures tested between 4°C and 37°C, storage at 12°C, 16°C, and 20°C was optimal for maintenance of RPE cell viability, morphology, and phenotype. The preservation of RPE cells is critically dependent on storage temperature.
Intensification of Azo Dye Removal Rate in the Presence of Immobilized Nanoparticles and Inorganic Anions under UV-C Irradiation: Optimization by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Behnajady Mohammad A. , Hajiahmadi Mahsa
Published: October 2013

Wastewaters contain inorganic anions that affect the removal rate of organic pollutants. The present study aims to optimize the effects of inorganic anions such as , Cl−, , and on the removal rate of an organic pollutant in the presence of immobilized TiO2nanoparticles using response surface methodology (RSM). C.I. Acid Red 17 (AR17) was used as a model organic pollutant. Thirty experiments were required to study the effects of anions in various concentrations. The results indicate that the addition of and ions intensifies the removal rate of AR17. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a high coefficient of determination value ( and ). The results indicate that RSM is a suitable method for modeling and optimizing the process. The results prove that in the presence of and and ions especially in the combination situation the removal rate of AR17 is enhanced considerably. An important synergy effect was observed in the combination of and ions, so that AR17 removal percent under the optimized RSM conditions was considerably more than the sum of removal percent when these ions are used individually.
Topographic Dependence of Cropland Transformation in China during the First Decade of the 21st Century
Authors: Li Yuejiao , Yang Xiaohuan , Long Wenli
Published: October 2013

Terrain plays a critical role in the selection of cropland. As a physical and geographical element of the landscape, terrain is an important limiting factor in land use change and has a strong influence on human activities. The objectives of this study are to investigate the topographic characteristics of cropland‐related transformations in China during the first decade of the 21st century and to explore the implications of land use change as it relates to securing a national food supply. A 2010 satellite‐based land use dataset and the DEM data were used to conduct spatial statistical analysis using altitude, slope, and fragmentation data. The results showed the following. (1) As the urbanization and industrialization of China occur, and China attempts to replace this occupied cropland with newly reclaimed cropland, the topography of the most recently reclaimed cropland has been more poorly suited to farming than the topography of the occupied cropland it replaces in most provinces. (2) The area of occupied cropland was much larger than of those reclaimed; the qualities of occupied and reclaimed cropland were significantly different. (3) Land reclamation mainly occurred in northern China, instead of in southern China, which has a higher level of economic development. Our findings imply that the potential area available for cropland production may be limited.
No Association between Glycemia and Wound Healing in an Experimental db/db Mouse Model
Authors: Berdal Margrete , Jenssen Trond
Published: October 2013

Impaired wound healing is a frequent problem in diabetes. Hyperglycemia may be
an operative mechanism, but a link between glycemic control and wound healing has
never been established. Wounds in db/db mice have been extensively studied.
This study was undertaken to see if plasma glucose was a predictor of wound healing.
An excisional wound was made (149 db/db mice). Wound closure was
studied versus metabolic variables. The animals were 11.8±0.2
weeks (mean ± standard error of the mean), obese (38.1±0.5 g), and hyperglycemic (fasting plasma glucose 21.0±0.7 mmol/L). Wound closure at day 13 was 30.1±1.6%. In linear mixed model analyses neither fasting plasma glucose
nor its change from start to end of experiment was a significant predictor of wound closure (β=0.15, P=0.07, 95% CI: −0.01 to 0.31 and β=0.06, P=0.5, 95% CI: −0.11 to 0.23, resp.). However, increase in body weight significantly and independently predicted wound closure (for weight change, β=0.22, P=0.008, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.38). This study strongly suggests that
wound healing in db/db mice is independent of prevailing glycemia but
dependent on anabolic changes such as weight gain over time.
Staged Osteotome Sinus Floor Elevation for Progressive Site Development and Immediate Implant Placement in Severely Resorbed Alveolar Bone: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Almaie Saad
Published: October 2013

This case report discusses osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) and immediate placement in 2 stages in severely resorbed alveolar bone height in which multiple implant placement is not otherwise feasible due to a lack of initial stability. The first implant placed using OSFE without bone grafting prepares the adjacent resorbed sites for further implant placement in the sinus areas, which allows for better initial stability and early functional loading. This process avoids the conventional extensive lateral approach for sinus lifting and bone grafting procedures even in extremely resorbed alveolar bone.
Preparation, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activities of Bimetallic Complexes of Sarcosine with Zn(II) and Sn(IV)
Authors: Arafat Yasir , Ali Saqib , Shahzadi Saira , Shahid Muhammad
Published: October 2013

Heterobimetallic complexes of Zn(II) and Sn(IV) with sarcosine have been synthesized at room temperature under stirring conditions by the reaction of sarcosine and zinc acetate in 2 : 1 molar ratio followed by the stepwise addition of CS2and organotin(IV) halides, where R = Me,n-Bu, and Ph. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR and NMR (1H,13C) spectroscopy. IR data showed that the ligand acts in a bidentate manner. NMR data revealed the four coordinate geometry in solution state.In vitroantimicrobial activities data showed that complexes (3) and (4) were effective against bacterial and fungal strains with few exceptions.
Outage Probability of Dual-Hop Relay System with Interference and Feedback Delay in Satellite M2M Networks
Authors: Lin Yuan , He Yuanzhi , Huang Qinfei , Yin Hao , Feng Shaodong
Published: October 2013

The machine-to-machine (M2M) communication enables information exchange between machine devices, which can be carried out without or with minimal human interaction. In this paper, we analyse the outage probability of satellite M2M communication system using amplify-and-forward (AF) and decode-and-forward (DF) relaying schemes. Both the channel feedback delay and multiple interferers at the relay and destination are taken into consideration. The channels of the two hops are modeled as Rayleigh and Rician, respectively. The closed-form outage probability expressions for both AF fixed-gain and DF relaying system are obtained, and the validness of our analytical results are verified by the Monte Carlo simulations. It is shown that the channel delay affects the outage probability performance more significantly compared with the interferences. It is also worthy to note that the DF relaying system provides better performance than AF fixed-gain relaying system, especially when the feedback delay is short. Moreover, it can be found that the performance gaps of the two relaying schemes become trivial as the feedback delay increases.
Sociodemographic and Psychological Correlates of Sun Protection Behaviors among Outdoor Workers: A Review
Authors: Nahar Vinayak K. , Ford M. Allison , Hallam Jeffrey S. , Bass Martha A. , Vice Michael A.
Published: October 2013

Outdoor workers are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer due to their increased sun exposure. The primary objective of this review was to synthesize the current research literature that addresses sociodemographic and psychological factors related to sun protection behaviors in outdoor workers. Two additional purposes were to provide an overview of sun exposure and describe sun protection behaviors of outdoor workers. To identify the studies for this review, a methodical search was performed in the PubMed, PsycInfo, MEDLINE, and ERIC databases. Fifteen studies met the review criteria. Despite regular and prolonged sun exposure, many outdoor workers fail to engage in sufficient sun protection behaviors. Correlates of outdoor workers’ sun protection behaviors include being female, older age, being white, personal skin cancer history, time (hours/years) spent at work, sun safety training, perceived prioritization of sun protection, concern about sun exposure, workplace support, families’ expectations, and familial information giving. However, limited attention is given to designing theoretically grounded studies to identify factors to inform future research. There is a need to conduct research based on solid theoretical foundations that explains the relationships among the factors in this domain.
Thematic Review and Analysis of Grounded Theory Application in Software Engineering
Authors: Badreddin Omar
Published: October 2013

We present metacodes, a new concept to guide grounded theory (GT) research in software engineering. Metacodes are high level codes that can help software engineering researchers guide the data coding process. Metacodes are constructed in the course of analyzing software engineering papers that use grounded theory as a research methodology. We performed a high level analysis to discover common themes in such papers and discovered that GT had been applied primarily in three software engineering disciplines: agile development processes, geographically distributed software development, and requirements engineering. For each category, we collected and analyzed all grounded theory codes and created, following a GT analysis process, what we call metacodes that can be used to drive further theory building. This paper surveys the use of grounded theory in software engineering and presents an overview of successes and challenges of applying this research methodology.
Incomplete Augmented Lagrangian Preconditioner for Steady Incompressible Navier‐Stokes Equations
Authors: Tan Ning-Bo , Huang Ting-Zhu , Hu Ze-Jun
Published: October 2013

An incomplete augmented Lagrangian preconditioner, for the steady incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations discretized by stable finite elements, is proposed. The eigenvalues of the preconditioned matrix are analyzed. Numerical experiments show that the incomplete augmented Lagrangian‐based preconditioner proposed is very robust and performs quite well by the Picard linearization or the Newton linearization over a wide range of values of the viscosity on both uniform and stretched grids.
Regarding the Charmed‐Strange Member of the 23S1 Meson State
Authors: Feng Xue-Chao , Chen Jing
Published: October 2013

By employing the mass relations derived from the mass matrix and
Regge trajectory, we investigate the masses of charmed and
charmed‐strange members of the 23S1 meson. The masses are
compared with the values predicted by other theoretical approaches
and experimental data. The results may be useful for the discovery
of the unobserved meson and the determination of the quantum number
of the newly discovered states.
Impact of Peritoneal Dialysis Treatment on Arterial Stiffness and Vascular Changes in Diabetic Type 2 and Nondiabetic Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Rebić Damir , Rašić Senija , Rebić Velma
Published: October 2013

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the leading cause of the end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Vascular diseases are the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in the chronic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of peritoneal dialysis (PD) treatment on morphologic and hemodynamic vascular parameters of carotid arteries in diabetic type 2 and nondiabetic patients with ESRD during the period of one year after the start of PD treatment using ultrasonography of carotid arteries and their relation on uremia and PD inherent factors. Mean intima-media thickness, plaque score, peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity, and carotid diameter significantly decreased 12 months after PD treatment start in both groups. Significant reduction in median serum endothelin-1 concentration after 12 months on PD treatment was observed in the group of patients with DM (7.6–5.9 pg/mL) and also in group of patients without DM (3.6–3.3 pg/mL). Also median nitric oxide concentration significantly increased after 12 months on PD compared to baseline levels both in patients with DM (25.0–34.3 μmol/L) as was observed in patients without DM (49.6–56.5 μmol/L). PD treatment, with the regulation of these vasoactive molecules and other vascular risk factors, significantly contributes to vascular remodeling, especially in DM patients.
Bilateral Obstructive Uropathy Secondary to Giant Periureteral Diverticulum
Authors: Hernando Arteche Alberto , San Jose Manso Luis Alberto , Olivier Gomez Carlos , Silmi Moyano Angel Nellyt
Published: October 2013

Bladder diverticula are herniations of the mucosa through the fibers of the bladder muscle connected by necks of variable amplitude. They are often asymptomatic, although they may lead to complications that require a surgical therapeutic approach. We report the case of a patient with bilateral obstructive uropathy secondary to a giant periureteral diverticulum that was treated by diverticulectomy and reimplantation of the left ureter in the bladder.
A Newborn with Genital Ambiguity, 45,X/46,XY Mosaicism, a Jumping Chromosome Y, and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Zhang Lei , Cooley Linda D. , Chandratre Sonal R. , Ahmed Atif , Jacobson Jill D.
Published: October 2013

Disorders of sex development (DSD), formerly termed “intersex” conditions, arise from numerous causes. CAH secondary to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is the most common cause of DSD. Sex chromosome disorders, including sex chromosome mosaicism, are the second most common cause of DSD. We discuss a medically complex neonate with DSD presenting with ambiguous genitalia. Hormone levels suggested 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Molecular analysis revealed compound heterozygous mutations in the 21-hydroxylase gene (CYP21A2), confirming the diagnosis of CAH. Chromosome analysis revealed sex chromosome mosaicism with three cell lines: 45,X[8]/45,X,tas(Y;16)(p11.32;p13.3)[8]/45,X,t(Y;8)(p11.32;p23.3)[4] with the Y chromosome in telomere association with chromosomes 8p and 16p in different cell lines, a “jumping translocation.” Histologically, the right gonad had irregular, distended seminiferous tubules with hyperplastic germ cells contiguous with ovarian stroma and primordial follicles. The left gonad had scant ovarian stroma and embryonic remnants. Chromosome analyses showed mosaicism in both gonads: 45,X[17]/45,X,tas(Y;8)(p11.32;p23.3)[3]. This is the first case of coexisting CAH and 45,X/46,XY mosaicism reported in the English literature and the third case of a constitutional chromosome Y “jumping translocation.” Our report documents the medical and genetic complexity of children such as this one with ambiguous genitalia and discusses the need for a multidisciplinary team approach.
Vibration Characteristics of Composite Footbridges under Various Human Running Loads
Authors: Sadeghi Faraz , Kueh Ahmad , Bagheri Fard Ali , Aghili Nasim
Published: October 2013

Various types of human running dynamic loads are numerically studied and compared to assess vibration characteristics of the light and slender composite footbridges. Running, which is a common human activity, has been categorized with respect to its intensity into jogging, normal running, and sprinting. To explore the footbridge’s performance, the vibration responses are investigated through a series of analyses in terms of the peak accelerations and displacements. In the model verification, the acquired first natural frequency of structure has shown good agreement with the value reported in the literature. The structural performance of the slender composite footbridge is then evaluated with regard to the serviceability requirement given by the current design standards. It is generally found that the maximum acceleration of the composite footbridge due to the excitation of one person running varies under different running types because of diversities in the velocity and the step frequency. Furthermore, it is shown that the investigated structure provides sufficient human comfort against vibrations for all the examined three types of running loads.
Bounds for Combinations of Toader Mean and Arithmetic Mean in Terms of Centroidal Mean
Authors: Jiang Wei-Dong
Published: October 2013

The authors find the greatest value λ and the least value μ, such that the double inequality holds for all α ∈ (0,1) and a, b > 0 with a ≠ b, where , A(a, b) = (a + b)/2, and denote, respectively, the centroidal, arithmetic, and Toader means of the two positive numbers a and b.
Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging of an Intramedullary Epidermoid Cyst with Dorsal Dermal Sinus Tract in a Toddler
Authors: Fazio Michael G. , Kil Alyson M. , Rooks Veronica J. , Biega Timothy J.
Published: October 2013

We report the use of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose and manage a rare case of a symptomatic thoracic intramedullary congenital epidermoid cyst with associated dermal sinus in a girl. Congenital intramedullary epidermoid cysts with associated dermal sinuses are very rare occurrences and seldom present symptomatically in very young children. We present a case of a 32-month old with a draining dimpled skin lesion. Magnetic resonance images demonstrated an intramedullary epidermoid with a dorsal dermal sinus tract opening to the skin surface which was confirmed surgically. The patient was treated with debulking to prevent recurrent infection and progression of neurological symptoms. This case demonstrates the use of diffuse-weighted MRI to assist in the diagnosis and surgical management of an atypical presentation of a rare developmental abnormality, which is not well documented in the pediatric radiological literature. Failure to diagnosis may have significant neurological permanent debilitating consequences.
Renal Mucormycosis: A Rare and Potentially Lethal Complication of Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Kuy SreyRam , He Chun , Cronin David C.
Published: October 2013

Renal mucormycosis is a rare and potentially lethal complication of kidney transplantation. We describe two cases of renal mucormycosis following deceased donor kidney transplantation. This is the second report of renal mucormycosis following kidney transplantation in the United States, and the first case of renal mucormycosis infection presumed to be of recipient origin. Case A had an early presentation of mucormycosis isolated to the kidney allograft. He had an unexpected rise in serum creatinine and leukocytosis necessitating allograft biopsy which showed mucormycosis. He underwent transplant nephrectomy on posttransplant day 11, was treated with amphotericin B, and discharged home on posttransplant day 22. Case B had a late presentation of renal mucormycosis, preceded by a cutaneous manifestation. One year after kidney transplantation he had a nonhealing knee ulcer which on biopsy showed cutaneous mucormycosis. Treatment included aggressive debridement and amphotericin B. Allograft biopsy showed mucormycosis, necessitating transplant nephrectomy. He was discharged to a rehabilitation facility and died from noninfectious causes. Review of the published literature of renal mucormycosis cases following kidney transplantation reveals a mortality rate of more than 50%. The key to successful outcome is early recognition, prompt institution of surgical debridement of all infected tissue, and appropriate antifungal therapy.
Real-time Liquid Biopsy in Cancer Patients: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Pantel Klaus , Alix-Panabières Catherine
Published: October 2013

Distant metastases harbor unique genomic characteristics not detectable in the corresponding primary tumor of the same patient and metastases located at different sites show a considerable intrapatient heterogeneity. Thus, the mere analysis of the resected primary tumor alone (current standard practice in oncology) or, if possible, even reevaluation of tumor characteristics based on the biopsy of the most accessible metastasis may not reveal sufficient information for treatment decisions. Here, we propose that this dilemma can be solved by a new diagnostic concept: liquid biopsy, that is, analysis of therapeutic targets and drug resistance–conferring gene mutations on circulating tumor cells (CTC) and cell-free circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) released into the peripheral blood from metastatic deposits. We discuss the current challenges and future perspectives of CTCs and ctDNA as biomarkers in clinical oncology. Both CTCs and ctDNA are interesting complementary technologies that can be used in parallel in future trials assessing new drugs or drug combinations. We postulate that the liquid biopsy concept will contribute to a better understanding and clinical management of drug resistance in patients with cancer. Cancer Res; 73(21); 6384–8. ©2013 AACR.
Albuminuria and Carotid Atherosclerosis as Predictors of Cognitive Function in a General Population
Authors: Rogne Sigbjørn O. , Solbu Marit D. , Arntzen Kjell Arne , Herder Marit , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Schirmer Henrik
Published: October 2013

Background/Aims: Albuminuria and carotid atherosclerosis are predictors of cardiovascular disease and potential predictors of cognitive decline. Our aim was to study whether albuminuria was an early predictor of cognitive function independent of carotid atherosclerosis in a general population. Methods: The study population comprised 1,577 adults without self-reported stroke. In 1994 and 2007 all were screened for cardiovascular risk factors, urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR), carotid intima-media thickness and carotid total plaque area (TPA). Endpoints were neuropsychological test results in 2007 from the digit symbol test, the finger-tapping test, the Mini Mental Status Examination and the 12-word test parts 1 and 2. Multivariate linear regression was used to assess associations. Results: Higher ACR, ΔACR, intima-media thickness, TPA and ΔTPA independently predicted a lower score on the digit symbol test. Higher ΔACR and ΔTPA predicted a lower score on the finger-tapping test. Higher TPA predicted a lower score on the 12-word test part 1 (immediate recall). Smoking predicted lower scores on the digit symbol and finger-tapping tests independent of albuminuria and carotid atherosclerosis. Conclusions: Our results suggest that albuminuria, carotid atherosclerosis and smoking are independent predictors of executive function and motor tempo.
Emergence of Autochthonous Infections with Hepatitis E Virus of Genotype 4 in Europe
Authors: Bouamra Yanis , Gérolami René , Arzouni Jean-Pierre , Grimaud Jean-Charles , Lafforgue Pierre , Nelli Marjorie , Tivoli Natacha , Ferretti Audrey , Motte Anne , Colson Philippe
Published: October 2013

In Europe, autochthonous hepatitis E is caused by genotype 3 hepatitis E virus (HEV) in almost all cases. A total of 15 infections with genotype 4 HEV were diagnosed in France from May 2009 to April 2012, and all but one of the HEV-4 strains implicated in these infections were genetically related and highly similar to HEV-4 sequences isolated from swine in Belgium. In addition, 5 autochthonous HEV-4 infections have been described in the region of Lazio, Italy, during March and April 2011, and these HEV sequences were 100% identical to one another but showed relatively low similarity (74-85%) to HEV-4 RNA samples collected in France. We report 6 additional HEV-4 infections that were diagnosed from May to July 2012 which represented 50% of the HEV infections diagnosed during this period in our clinical microbiology laboratory. Five of these HEV-4 strains were associated with autochthonous infections and were clustered together and with the majority of HEV-4 previously described in France, whereas the sixth strain was genetically divergent. Taken together with reports from other teams, these observations indicate that autochthonous infections with HEV-4 are emerging in Europe and have been transmitted by at least two distinct sources.
Perspective on Rhabdomyolysis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury and New Treatment Options
Authors: Ulusoy Sukru , Ozkan Gulsum , Alkanat Mehmet , Mungan Sevdegül , Yuluğ Esin , Orem Asım
Published: October 2013

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess the role of caspase-dependent apoptosis, caspase 1, calpain 1, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the protective effect of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) in the development of rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). Materials and Methods: Twenty-one rats were divided into 3 groups - control, rhabdomyolysis and rhabdomyolysis + GSPE. Rhabdomyolysis was induced in the rhabdomyolysis and rhabdomyolysis + GSPE groups with the injection into both hind limbs of 10 ml/kg hypertonic (50%) glycerol following 24-hour dehydration on the 6th day. The rhabdomyolysis + GSPE group was given GSPE at 100 mg/kg by gavage for 7 days. The experiment was concluded 48 h after glycerol injection. Blood specimens were collected, and kidney tissues were extracted for histopathological examination. Results: We identified an increase in blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, histopathological score, iNOS, caspase 3, caspase 1 and calpain 1 expression in the rhabdomyolysis group compared to the controls and a decrease in eNOS expression. In the rhabdomyolysis + GSPE group, however, there was a decrease in these mediators, together with an increase in eNOS expression. Conclusion: This study shows for the first time in the literature that calpain 1 is involved in the pathogenesis of rhabdomyolysis-induced AKI, and that GSPE may have a renoprotective effect.
Major Efficacy of Trabectedin in 2 Metastatic Osteosarcoma Patients with Wild-Type Asp1104 ERCC5 Tumor Status
Authors: Gastaud Lauris , Saâda-Bouzid Esma , Le Morvan Valérie , Pourquier Philippe , Ianessi Antoine , Thariat Juliette , Italiano Antoine , Thyss Antoine
Published: October 2013

Background: Treatment of osteosarcoma of the extremities consists of surgical resection preceded and followed by chemotherapy, including high-dose methotrexate or adriamycin-based protocols. When distant relapse occurs, therapeutic options are scarce. Trabectedin, a DNA-binding agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas after failure of anthracyclines and ifosfamide. In this indication, the 6-month progression-free survival is about 35-40%. Recent reports showed that some specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from DNA repair genes could be associated with sensitivity to trabectedin in soft tissue sarcomas. Case Reports: We report our experience of 2 metastatic, heavily pre-treated osteosarcoma patients who were treated with trabectedin. Pyrosequencing analyses of tumors from both patients for several SNPs of the ERCC1, ERCC5 and BRAC1 genes were performed. Both patients showed major response to trabectedin, which was interestingly related with homozygoty of the common guanine allele of ERCC5 (G/G genotype; Asp/Asp) after pyrosenquencing analysis of tumors from both patients. This polymorphism was previously shown to be associated with better outcome in soft tissue sarcoma patients treated with trabectedin. Conclusion: Homozygoty for the wild-type Asp1104 SNP of the ERCC5 gene was found in 2 cases of relapsed osteosarcoma, who responded to trabectedin.
MiR-124 is Related to Podocytic Adhesive Capacity Damage in STZ-Induced Uninephrectomized Diabetic Rats
Authors: Li Dong , Lu Zhenyu , Jia Junya , Zheng Zhenfeng , Lin Shan
Published: October 2013

Background: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Podocyte plays a key role in the pathogenesis of DN. Adhesive capacity damage of podocytes is characteristic in DN. Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in controlling many cell adhesion molecules thus contribute to normal cell adhesion. The roles of miRNA in podocytic adhesive capacity damage in diabetic conditions remain largely unknown. Methods: Diabetes was induced by tail vein injection of streptozotocin (STZ) into uninephrectomized male Wistar rats. Comparative miRNA expression array and real-time PCR analyses were conducted in sham group at week 0 (W0, n = 3) and STZ-induced uninephrectomized diabetic rats at week 1 (W1, n = 3) and week 2 (W2, n = 3) to demonstrate the greatest increased miRNA in renal cortex. At week 2, STZ-induced uninephrectomized diabetic rats were treated with vehicle (Group U, n = 9), chemically modified antisense RNA oligonucleotide (ASO) complementary to the mature miR-124 (Group O, n = 8), miR-124 mismatch control sequence (Group M, n = 8). Urine specimens were obtained for measurement of urine albumin concentration and urinary podocyte specific protein (nephrin and podocin) quantitation. Expression of integrin α3 were detected by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Results: MiRNAs are differentially regulated in renal cortex of STZ-induced uninephrectomized diabetic rats relative to sham rats. Among the up-regulated miRNAs, miR-124 expression demonstrated the greatest increase. Administration of miR-124 ASO for two weeks significantly reduced urinary podocytic nephrin, podocin and albumin excretion and up-regulate integrin α3 expression. Conclusion: MiR-124 is related to podocytic adhesive capacity damage and may be implicated in the pathogenesis of DN.
Comparison of the MDRD Study and CKD-EPI Equations for the Estimation of the Glomerular Filtration Rate in the Korean General Population: The Fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES V-1), 2010
Authors: Jeong Tae-Dong , Lee Woochang , Chun Sail , Lee Sang Koo , Ryu Jin-Sook , Min Won-Ki , Park Jung Sik
Published: October 2013

Background: We compared the accuracy of the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations in Korean patients and evaluated the difference in CKD prevalence determined using the two equations in the Korean general population. Methods: The accuracy of the two equations was evaluated in 607 patients who underwent a chromium-51-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid GFR measurement. Additionally, we compared the difference in CKD prevalence determined by the two equations among 5,822 participants in the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2010. Results: Among the 607 subjects, the median bias of the CKD-EPI equation was significantly lower than that of the MDRD study equation (0.9 vs. 2.2, p=0.020). The accuracy of the two equations was not significantly different in patients with mGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2; however, the accuracy of the CKD-EPI equation was significantly higher than that of the MDRD study equation in patients with GFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73m2. The prevalences of the CKD stages 1, 2 and 3 in the Korean general population were 47.56, 49.23, and 3.07%, respectively, for the MDRD study equation; and were 68.48, 28.89, and 2.49%, respectively, for the CKD-EPI equation. Conclusions: These data suggest that the CKD-EPI equation might be more useful in clinical practice than the MDRD study equation in Koreans.
Clinical Significance of Joint Detection of CD44v6 and CD62P in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Jie , Li Lei , Ren Yanxin , Li Xiaojiang , Tu Yanling , Ma Jing , Sun Ruimei , Zhao Liufang
Published: October 2013

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and clinical prognostic significance of adhesion molecules in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) tissues and peripheral blood. Materials and Methods: Flow cytometry assays for the expression levels of CD44v6 and CD62P protein in peripheral blood and tissues from controls and NPC patients were performed. Clinical and pathological features were reported and analyzed, and a survival study was carried out. Results: The expression of CD44v6 and CD62P in NPC tissues and peripheral blood was higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05). Expression levels in peripheral blood of stage III/IV NPC patients was markedly higher than that of patients in stage I/II (p < 0.05), while it had no statistically significant difference in tissues (p > 0.05). The expression levels of CD44v6 and CD62P in the lymph gland metastasis and distant metastasis group were higher than groups without such metastasis (p < 0.05), and there was no statistical difference in NPC tissues (p > 0.05). The survival rates of NPC groups with low expression in the peripheral blood were higher than those of high-expression groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Joint detection of CD44v6 and CD62P in the peripheral blood or tissues of NPC patients has diagnostic and prognostic value as a marker of poor clinical outcome.
Prostaglandin E
2
Inhibits Elastogenesis in the Ductus Arteriosus via EP4 Signaling
Authors: Yokoyama Utako , Minamisawa Susumu , Shioda Aki , Ishiwata Ryo , Jin Mei-Hua , Masuda Munetaka , Asou Toshihide , Sugimoto Yukihiko , Aoki Hiroki , Nakamura Tomoyuki , Ishikawa Yoshihiro
Published: October 2013

Background—

Elastic fiber formation begins in mid-gestation and increases dramatically during the last trimester in the great arteries, providing elasticity and thus preventing vascular wall structure collapse. However, the ductus arteriosus (DA), a fetal bypass artery between the aorta and pulmonary artery, exhibits lower levels of elastic fiber formation, which promotes vascular collapse and subsequent closure of the DA after birth. The molecular mechanisms for this inhibited elastogenesis in the DA, which is necessary for the establishment of adult circulation, remain largely unknown.

Methods and Results—

Stimulation of the prostaglandin E
2
(PGE
2
) receptor EP4 significantly inhibited elastogenesis and decreased lysyl oxidase (LOX) protein, which catalyzes elastin cross-links in DA smooth muscle cells (SMCs), but not in aortic SMCs. Aortic SMCs expressed much less EP4 than DASMCs. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of LOX restored the EP4-mediated inhibition of elastogenesis in DASMCs. In EP4-knockout mice, electron microscopic examination showed that the DA acquired an elastic phenotype that was similar to the neighboring aorta. More importantly, human DA and aorta tissues from 7 patients showed a negative correlation between elastic fiber formation and EP4 expression, as well as between EP4 and LOX expression. The PGE
2
-EP4-c-Src-phospholipase C (PLC)γ–signaling pathway most likely promoted the lysosomal degradation of LOX.

Conclusions—

Our data suggest that PGE
2
signaling inhibits elastogenesis in the DA, but not in the aorta, through degrading LOX protein. Elastogenesis is spatially regulated by PGE
2
-EP4 signaling in the DA.
Myocardial Ischemia During Mental Stress: Role of Coronary Artery Disease Burden and Vasomotion
Authors: Ramadan Ronnie , Sheps David , Esteves Fabio , Maziar Zafari A. , Douglas Bremner J. , Vaccarino Viola , Quyyumi Arshed A.
Published: October 2013

Background

Mental stress–induced myocardial ischemia (
MSIMI
) is associated with adverse prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (
CAD
), yet the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear. We hypothesized that compared with exercise/pharmacological stress–induced myocardial ischemia (
PSIMI
) that is secondary to the atherosclerotic burden of
CAD
,
MSIMI
is primarily due to vasomotor changes.

Methods and Results

Patients with angiographically documented
CAD
underwent
99m
Tc‐sestamibi myocardial perfusion imaging at rest and following both mental and physical stress testing, performed on separate days. The severity and extent of
CAD
were quantified using the Gensini and Sullivan scores. Peripheral arterial tonometry (Itamar Inc) was used to assess the digital microvascular tone during mental stress as a ratio of pulse wave amplitude during speech compared with baseline. Measurements were made in a discovery sample (n=225) and verified in a replication sample (n=159). In the pooled (n=384) sample,
CAD
severity and extent scores were not significantly different between those with and without
MSIMI
, whereas they were greater in those with compared with those without
PSIMI
(
P
<0.04 for all). The
peripheral arterial tonometry
ratio was lower in those with compared with those without
MSIMI
(0.55±0.36 versus 0.76±0.52,
P
=0.009). In a multivariable analysis, the peripheral arterial tonometry ratio was the only independent predictor of
MSIMI
(
P
=0.009), whereas angiographic severity and extent of
CAD
independently predicted
PSIMI
.

Conclusions

The degree of digital microvascular constriction, and not the angiographic burden of
CAD
, is associated with
MSIMI
. Varying causes of
MSIMI
compared with
PSIMI
may require different therapeutic interventions that require further study.
The types of Osteoglossum formosum Müller & Schlegel, 1840
(Teleostei, Osteoglossidae)
Authors: VAN OIJEN MARTIEN J.P. , VAN DER MEIJ SANCIA E.T.
Published: October 2013

The designation of a neotype for Scleropages formosus (Müller & Schlegel, 1840) by Pouyaud et al. (2003) triggered a search for the type specimens of the species, which were found in the collections of the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden (RMNH) and the Natural History Museum, London (BM(NH)). The publication date of the species is corrected. Moreover, detailed data on the day of capture and the type locality were uncovered. An English translation of the major part of the original Dutch description is provided, and a number of neglected colour descriptions and figures of S. formosus are discussed. Lastly, a lectotype is designated.
Quantification of clusterin in paired cerebrospinal fluid and plasma samples
Authors: Jongbloed Wesley , Herrebout Maaike AC , Blankenstein Marinus A , Veerhuis Robert
Published: October 2013

Background

Clusterin (ApoJ) is an amyloid-associated protein and plays an important role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. Recent genome-wide association studies have indicated that certain genetic variants increase the risk of developing AD. To determine if the expression of clusterin is different in AD patients, both systemically and locally in the brain, differs between (subgroups of) AD patients and non-AD cases, an assay available that detects clusterin in both plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with equal sensitivity would be helpful.

Methods

We compared four different commercially available antibodies in their ability to detect recombinant clusterin and immune-purified human clusterin. Specificity was tested on western blot and in ELISA systems, and selection was based on the ability to detect clusterin in CSF and plasma. A sandwich ELISA was developed and validated with monoclonal antibody G7 as capture, and rabbit polyclonal (Alexis) antibodies for detection.

Results

Our ELISA measured clusterin concentrations in plasma and CSF with dynamic ranges of 2–70 mg/L and 0.5–40 mg/L, respectively. The assays showed 99.8% recovery in CSF and 97% recovery in plasma. Intra-assay coefficient of variation was 1.4% and inter-assay 8.8%. The assay shows no cross-reactivity with related apolipoproteins. Clusterin quantification is dependent on the type of storage for plasma samples. A single freeze/thaw cycle caused fluctuations of clusterin concentrations in plasma, while clusterin in CSF is stable for up to five cycles.

Conclusions

We have successfully developed a clusterin ELISA that reliably measures CSF and plasma clusterin concentrations. In a pilot study, all samples gave results that were well within the dynamic range of the assay, with low variations. Freshly stored plasma samples are crucial for accurate clusterin quantification.
‘The right people to do the right job … ’: Legitimation work of municipal corporate security personnel
Authors: Walby Kevin , Lippert Randy , Wilkinson Blair
Published: October 2013

Corporate security units have emerged in municipal governments across North America. They resemble corporate security units found in private corporations, yet they are publically funded. Presently little is known about how the work of municipal corporate security units differs from that of public police, private contract security, or corporate security in the private sector. Though previous research has examined attitudes of public police toward private contract security, and vice versa, corporate security attitudes have been overlooked, as has how public sector corporate security personnel compare themselves to their counterparts in private corporations. This article extends analyses of ‘legitimation work’ of security and policing agents by examining what MCS personnel claim about public police, private corporate security, and private contract security. We show that MCS personnel claim the public police officers have a different skill set and possess limitations that MCS units overcome; that private corporate security is said to be driven more by a profit motive and is less accountable; and that private contract security agents have less expertise and are of lesser value than MCS personnel. Finally, we explore implications of this study for future research in policing and security.
Health Promotion in Pediatric Primary Care
Authors: Davis Deborah Winders , Jones V. Faye , Logsdon M. Cynthia , Ryan Lesa , Wilkerson-McMahon Mandie
Published: October 2013

Health literacy has been shown to predict health behaviors and outcomes above the effects of education or socioeconomic status. Much remains unknown about the health literacy of parents and the role it plays in children’s health outcomes or in health disparities. The current study explored the health communication needs and health literacy indicators in a diverse sample of parents (n = 75) to identify potential areas for future interventions. The sample consisted of parents of children 18 to 36 months old who were visiting 3 different pediatric medical offices, 2 of which served low-income families and 1 located in an affluent suburb. When comparisons were made between 2 educational attainment groups, there were variations in indicators of health literacy and health communication needs. These data can be used to guide the development of interventions by primary care providers to improve parent education.
A Comparison of Three IRT Approaches to Examinee Ability Change Modeling in a Single-Group Anchor Test Design
Authors: Paek Insu , Park Hyun-Jeong , Cai Li , Chi Eunlim
Published: October 2013

Typically a longitudinal growth modeling based on item response theory (IRT) requires repeated measures data from a single group with the same test design. If operational or item exposure problems are present, the same test may not be employed to collect data for longitudinal analyses and tests at multiple time points are constructed with unique item sets, as well as a set of common items (i.e., anchor test) for a study of examinee growth. In this study, three IRT approaches to examinee growth modeling were applied to a single-group anchor test design and their examinee growth estimates were compared. In terms of tracking individual growth, growth patterns in the examinee population distribution, and the overall model–data fit, results show the importance of modeling the serial correlation over multiple time points and other additional dependence coming from the use of the unique item sets, as well as the anchor test.
Closer to Augustine: Speculating on the recent past, and future, of Augustine scholarship
Authors: Hollingworth Miles
Published: October 2013

It is noticeable that Augustine has started to become a muse figure for the Western tradition; not at all unlike, say, like Ludwig Wittgenstein. In the way that Wittgenstein has become a guide to philosophical genius, Augustine is enjoying a similar renaissance as a guide to religious experience. It is a new, more neutral role for him. In this article, I look at how scholars are reflecting this general situation as they pay closer attention to the genres of his writing – specifically his pastoral and homiletical writings. In these he showed his greatest talent for appealing to the existential material of his listeners’ hearts. In turn, his fluent way of matching this material to its end in Christ suggests, at long last, a satisfactory means of defining Augustinianism. Up to now, this goal has eluded scholarship, due to the notoriously unsystematic character of his thought.
Patterns of stigma toward schizophrenia among the general population: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Loch Alexandre A , Wang Yuan-Pang , Guarniero Francisco B , Lawson Fabio L , Hengartner Michael P , Rössler Wulf , Gattaz Wagner F
Published: October 2013

Objective:

Our purpose was to assess stigma toward schizophrenia in a representative sample of the Brazilian general population.

Methods:

The sample consisted of 1015 individuals interviewed by telephone. A vignette describing someone with schizophrenia was read, and four stigma aspects regarding this hypothetical individual were assessed: stereotypes, restrictions, perceived prejudice and social distance. Latent profile analysis searched for stigma profiles among the sample. Multinomial logistic regression was used to find correlates of each class.

Results:

Four stigma profiles were found; ‘no stigma’ individuals ( n = 251) mostly displayed positive opinions. ‘Labelers’ ( n = 222) scored high on social distance; they more often had familial contact with mental illness and more often labeled the vignette’s disorder as schizophrenia. ‘Discriminators’, the group with the majority of individuals ( n = 302), showed high levels of stigmatizing beliefs in all dimensions; discriminators were significantly older. ‘Unobtrusive stigma’ individuals ( n = 240) seemed to demonstrate uncertainty or low commitment since they mostly answered items with the middle/impartial option.

Conclusion:

Some findings from the international literature were replicated; however, familial contact increased stigma, possibly denoting a locally modulated determinant. Hereby, our study also adds important cross-cultural data by showing that stigma toward schizophrenia is high in a Latin-American setting. We highlight the importance of analyzing the general population as a heterogeneous group, aiming to better elaborate anti-stigma campaigns.
Reading There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra
Authors: Mudimbe VY
Published: October 2013

Here is an intellectually dense reading of Chinua Achebe’s personal history of Biafra, which deconstructs and illuminates the book. Deconstructive components expose elements of Achebe’s narrative that fly beyond the intellectual grasp of his hasty castigators, many of whom vented without having read the book. In the related vein, the illuminative components expose the obligation and burden that Achebe discharged in the book as a Biafran. It is therefore a book whose narrative retraces the responsibility of Achebe’s faith vis-à-vis a historical challenge, which he fulfilled with determination by writing it.