bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of water hardness and temperature on the acute toxicity of mercuric chloride on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Terzi Ertugrul , Verep Bulent
Published: October 2011

In this study, the toxicity of mercuric chloride (HgCl2), an important pollutant threatening water resources for many years, and the effects of water temperature and hardness on the toxicity in cultured rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (4.79 ± 0.16 g; 7.38 ± 0.24 cm; mean ± SD) were investigated at different temperatures (12 and 17°C) and hardness concentrations (35, 70 and 120 mg l–1 as calcium carbonate, CaCO3). For this purpose, the acute toxicity tests were performed by 96-h static tests in different water temperatures and water hardness concentrations. For acute toxicity tests, solutions ranging from 0.4 to 1.2 mg l–1 were used at 12°C and solutions ranging from 0.4 to 1.0 mg l–1 at 17°C. The LC50 values of HgCl2 that killed 50% of rainbow trout within 96 h in the hardness concentrations of 35, 70 and 120 mg l–1 CaCO3 were calculated using probit analysis, and were found to be 0.725, 0.788, 0.855 mg l–1 at 12°C and 0.670, 0.741, 0.787 mg l–1 at 17°C, respectively. Consequently, the toxicity of HgCl2 on rainbow trout decreased when the temperature decreased from 17 to 12°C. Toxicity increased when the hardness decreased from 120 to 35 mg l–1 CaCO3. In contrast to temperature, water hardness presents a negative effect on the toxicity of HgCl2.
Oxidative DNA damage estimated by urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine and arsenic in glass production workers
Authors: Lin Tser-Sheng , Wu Chin-Ching , Wu Jyun-De , Wei Chun-Han
Published: October 2011

A total of 130 male glass workers, including 33 administrative workers, 18 batch house workers, 42 craftsmen, and 37 melting process workers, were recruited to investigate the potential DNA damage resulting from toxic element exposure. The occupational exposure to trace elements, including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and selenium (Se), was estimated by their urinary levels as internal doses. In addition, all participants filled a self-filled questionnaire indicating their individual information. The average levels of urinary As, Cd, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) were 282.3 ± 464.6, 3.07 ± 5.39, 3.81 ± 11.43, 81.48 ± 138.9, 18.23 ± 49.61, 165.2 ± 224.9, and 17.21 ± 26.34 μg/g creatinine, respectively. The urinary levels of 8-OHdG and toxic elements were strongly associated with the work nature of the worker, with an exception of Mn and Pb. In contrast, the levels of toxic element were not influenced by age, smoking behavior, and alcohol consumption. The urinary 8-OHdG was found significantly higher in higher internal exposure groups of As, Cd, Ni, and Se. However, the stepwise multiple regression models showed that urinary 8-OHdG was only associated with urinary As and heat stress but inversely with age.
Toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles through oral route
Authors: Pasupuleti Surekha , Alapati Srinivas , Ganapathy Selvam , Anumolu Goparaju , Pully Neelakanta Reddy , Prakhya Balakrishna Murthy
Published: October 2011

This experiment was aimed to determine the significance of dose by comparing acute oral toxicological potential of nano-sized zinc oxide (20 nm) with its micro-sized zinc oxide. Sprague Dawley rats, 8 to 9 weeks old, were administered with 5, 50, 300, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of nano- and micro-sized zinc oxide suspended in distilled water once through oral gavage. The effects of the micro- and nano-sized zinc oxide on biochemical and hematological parameters were analyzed on day 14 of administration. The organs were collected for histopathology. Interestingly, inverse dose-dependent increase was noted in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase serum levels of nano-size zinc oxide groups when compared with their micro-sized zinc oxide. Clotting time was effected in all the male groups of nano-size zinc oxide, except in 1000 mg/kg b.w. The incidences of microscopic lesions in liver, pancreas, heart and stomach were higher in lower doses of nano-size zinc oxide compared to higher dose. However, the incidences of above lesions were higher in rats treated with a high dose of micro-sized zinc oxide. We conclude that nano-size zinc oxide exhibited toxicity at lower doses, thus alarming future nanotoxicology research needs to be focused on importance of dose metrics rather following the conventional methods while conducting in vivo experiments.
RETRACTED: Ameliorative effect of vitamin C on hexavalent chromium-induced delay in sexual maturation and oxidative stress in developing Wistar rat ovary and uterus
Authors: Samuel Jawahar B , Stanley Jone A , Vengatesh Ganapathy , Princess Rajendran A , Muthusami Sridhar , Roopha Dailiah P , Suthagar Esakky , Kumar Kathiresh M , Sebastian Maria S , Aruldhas Michael M
Published: October 2011

At the request of the Editor and the Publisher, the following article:

Samuel JB, Stanley JA, Vengatesh G, Princess RA, Muthusami S, Roopha DP, Suthagar E, Kumar KM, Sebastian MS, Aruldhas MM. (2012) Ameliorative effect of vitamin C on hexavalent chromium-induced delay in sexual maturation and oxidative stress in developing Wistar rat ovary and uterus, Toxicology and Industrial Health 28(8): 720-733. DOI: 10.1177/0748233711422728

http://tih.sagepub.com/content/28/8/720.abstract

has been retracted from Toxicology and Industrial Health due to redundant publication by the same group of authors in another journal:

Samuel JB, Stanley JA, Roopha DP, Vengatesh G, Anbalagan J, Banu SK, Aruldhas MM. (2011) Lactational hexavalent chromium exposure-induced oxidative stress in rat uterus is associated with delayed puberty and impaired gonadotropin levels, Human & Experimental Toxicology 30(2):91-101. DOI: 10.1177/0960327110364638

http://het.sagepub.com/content/30/2/91.abstract

The two papers have used the same data and reporting with the Toxicology and Industrial Health manuscript inserting Vitamin C to differ the reporting. Additionally, the Toxicology and Industrial Health manuscript does not provide citations to original work by another author.
Mind Magic
Authors: Jellesma Francine C. , Cornelis Janine
Published: October 2011

Purpose of study: The aim of this pilot study was to examine a mind-body-based preventive intervention program and to determine relationships between children’s behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system, stress, and stress reduction after the program. Design of study: Children participated in the program ( n = 30) or in a control condition ( n = 24). They filled out questionnaires before and after the program and reported their levels of stress before and after each of the five sessions. Method: The program consisted of weekly sessions. Each session incorporated yoga postures, visualization, and social exercises. Breathing techniques were integrated. Findings: Stress reductions were only seen in the intervention group and mainly in children with high BIS—irrespective of their behavioral activation system. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that children with high BIS may benefit from a mind-body-based stress reduction program.
Consensus-based reconfigurable controller design for unmanned aerial vehicle formation flight
Authors: Seo J , Kim Y , Kim S , Tsourdos A
Published: October 2011

This article presents a distributed controller design methodology with a failure detection logic for formation flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). An output feedback linearization method with a consensus protocol is used to maintain a specified time-varying geometric configuration of multiple UAVs. In this approach, any explicit leader does not exist in the team, and the control strategy requires only the local neighbour-to-neighbour information between the vehicles. A graph Laplacian matrix is used to define the information flow topologies between the vehicles. The Failure detection algorithm is also proposed in order to detect a communication loss or an aircraft system fault and to isolate the failed one. The detection logic proposed in this study considers the case in which one of the vehicles totally broke down. Once the failure is detected, the failed vehicle is isolated. Reforming the interconnection topology using the failure detection logic can guarantee the stable formation flight with the proposed controller. Numerical simulations are performed to validate the performance of the proposed controller with which the formation geometry is dynamically reconfigured using failure detection information.
Tuning of a new class of robust fractional-order proportional–integral–derivative controllers
Authors: Tenoutit M , Maamri N , Trigeassou J-C
Published: October 2011

A new class of fractional proportional–integral (PI) and PI–derivative (PID) controllers is defined, based on a closed-loop reference model expressing the dynamical and robust performances. Moreover, the filtering of the derivative action is explicitly formulated using a generalized second-order reference model. Numerical simulations with simple systems illustrate some general principles that can be used as guidelines for the tuning of fractional PID controllers. For more complex or delayed systems, a tuning method based on the time moments approach is also proposed. Numerical examples illustrate the capabilities of this tuning technique.
Wind Tunnel Testing of a Helicopter Rotor Trailing Edge Flap Actuated via Pneumatic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Woods Benjamin K. S. , Kothera Curt S. , Wereley Norman M.
Published: October 2011

An active trailing edge flap system, actuated utilizing Pneumatic Artificial Muscles (PAMs), is developed in this study. PAMs were chosen as the actuation method because of several attractive properties, including: high specific work and power output, an expendable operating fluid (air), and robustness. Because of their performance, PAM are a potential enabling technology for a variety of next-generation aerospace systems. The actuation system developed here is sized for a full-scale active rotor system for a Bell 407 scale helicopter. This system is designed to produce large Trailing Edge Flap (TEF) deflections (±20°) at the main rotor rotation frequency (1 rev−1) to create large amplitude thrust variations that enable primary control of the helicopter. Additionally, the TEF actuation system is designed to produce smaller magnitude deflections at higher frequencies, up to 5 rev−1 ( N + 1 rev−1), to provide vibration mitigation capabilities. The PAMs are mounted antagonistically in the root of each blade. A bell crank and linkage system transfers the force and motion of these actuators to a trailing edge flap on the outboard portion of the rotor. A reduced span wind tunnel test model of this system was fabricated and tested in the Glenn L. Martin Wind Tunnel at the University of Maryland at wind speeds of up to M = 0.3, which is the maximum test wind speed of the facility. The test article consisted of a 1.55 m long outboard section of a Bell 407 rotor blade cantilevered from the base of the tunnel with a 0.86 m, 15% chord plain flap that was driven by the PAM actuation system. Testing over a wide range of aerodynamic conditions and actuation parameters demonstrated the considerable control authority and bandwidth of the system at the aerodynamic load levels available in the tunnel. Comparison of quasi-static experimental results shows good agreement with analytical predictions made using a simple system model.
Using Literature as a Strategy to Promote Inclusivity in High School Classrooms
Authors: Walton Elizabeth
Published: October 2011

Reports on school bullying of students who are different suggest that teachers need to be intentional about implementing strategies that promote inclusive attitudes and behaviors in diverse classrooms. Literature offers much to education in general, and it provides the pedagogic space to address issues of inclusion and exclusion, particularly of people with disabilities. Selecting literary texts that feature people with disabilities for high school students can be challenging, but once chosen, such texts can be used to promote inclusivity by developing sympathetic understanding, by addressing sensitive issues using the characters and context of the text, and by engaging in critical literacy that exposes power and positioning in texts. These strategies can be applied in classrooms through various written and verbal activities and can be used with a range of texts. One such text, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, illustrates how the strategies can be implemented.
The Social Origins of Authoritarianism
Authors: Solt Frederick
Published: October 2011

Despite much attention to the problematic consequences of authoritarianism, little research focuses on the causes of such unquestioning respect for “proper” authority. Elaborating on the social learning approach to authoritarianism, this article argues that economic inequality within countries shapes individuals’ feelings toward authority. As differences in condition increase, so does the relative power of the wealthy. As a result, regardless of their incomes, individuals’ experiences are more likely to lead them to view hierarchical relations as natural and, in turn, to hold greater respect for authority. Multilevel models of authoritarianism in countries around the world over three decades support this relative power theory.
A literature review on the optimization of legged robots
Authors: Silva Manuel Fernando , Machado JA Tenreiro
Published: October 2011

Over the last two decades the research and development of legged locomotion robots has grown steadily. Legged systems present major advantages when compared with ‘traditional’ vehicles, because they allow locomotion in inaccessible terrain to vehicles with wheels and tracks. However, the robustness of legged robots, and especially their energy consumption, among other aspects, still lag behind mechanisms that use wheels and tracks. Therefore, in the present state of development, there are several aspects that need to be improved and optimized. Keeping these ideas in mind, this paper presents the review of the literature of different methods adopted for the optimization of the structure andlocomotion gaits of walking robots. Among the distinct possible strategies often used for these tasks are referred approaches such as the mimicking of biological animals, the use of evolutionary schemes to find the optimal parameters and structures, the adoption of sound mechanical design rules, and the optimization of power-based indexes.
Concept demonstration of modal damping, a nonlinear structural vibration control scheme applied to a small scale vibrating aluminum cantilever model
Authors: May James E , Menzemer Craig C
Published: October 2011

Modal damping was conceived as a vibration control concept that could possibly be applied to a select set of long, flexible structures. The approach was designed to exploit damping mechanisms inherent in structures by capitalizing on distinctive dynamic properties existing among the structure’s vibration modes. Modal damping transfers vibration energy from the fundamental mode where most vibration energy of civil structures of interest resides, to higher order modes where vibration impedance was found to be more effective. The closed-loop, semi-active control concept was first investigated by way of dynamic simulation. The results reflected improved settling times and prompted a concept demonstration test using a small-scale structure that was modeled after a real-world and highly dynamic structure. The experimental results were found to corroborate those of the simulation. Of particular interest was the engineered control system designed to effect inter-modal energy transfer using motion control forces virtually self-generated by the motion of the structure itself.
Free vibration analysis of rectangular and annular Mindlin plates with undamaged and damaged boundaries by the spectral collocation method
Authors: Sari Ma’en S , Butcher Eric A
Published: October 2011

The objective of this paper is the development of a new numerical technique for the free vibration analysis of isotropic rectangular and annular Mindlin plates with damaged boundaries. For this purpose, the Chebyshev collocation method is applied to obtain the natural frequencies of Mindlin plates with damaged clamped boundary conditions, where the governing equations and boundary conditions are discretized by the presented method and put into matrix vector form. The damaged boundaries are represented by distributed translational and torsional springs. In the present study the boundary conditions are coupled with the governing equation to obtain the eigenvalue problem. Convergence studies are carried out to determine the sufficient number of grid points used. First, the results obtained for the undamaged plates are verified with previous results in the literature. Subsequently, the results obtained for the damaged Mindlin plate indicate the behavior of the natural vibration frequencies with respect to the severity of the damaged boundary. This analysis can lead to an efficient technique for structural health monitoring of structures in which joint or boundary damage plays a significant role in the dynamic characteristics. The results obtained from the Chebychev collocation solutions are seen to be in excellent agreement with those presented in the literature.
Music education in Cuban schools
Authors: Lorenzino Lisa
Published: October 2011

This article provides a description of the state-sponsored music education system in Cuban schools. Drawing upon documentary research as well as extended visits to Cuba, the article opens with a brief history of public schooling and music education in the nation. Going on to outline the current status of music education, the article pays specific attention to reforms implemented after the Cuban Revolution of 1959 as related to organizational structure, teacher training, and curriculum design. The article concludes with a critique of the status of music education in contemporary Cuba.
Music and homeschooled youth: A case study
Authors: Silverman Marissa
Published: October 2011

One dimension of music education and community music activity remains virtually unexamined: the homeschooled community. The purpose of this research was to examine the nature, values, and teaching-learning strategies of the North Jersey Homeschool Association (NJHSA) Chorale. This case study, conducted over a period of three months, chronicled numerous musical and social interactions of the NJHSA Chorale. Analyses of the data revealed four themes related to this organization’s nature, values, and teaching–learning processes: care, community, cultural pluralism, and spirituality. The conclusions of the study include (but are not limited to) the following: the aims and values of the NJHSA Chorale resonate with central issues in contemporary educational philosophy and with central aims of community music in particular (e.g., music making for life-long learning and for community well-being).
An 8-year-old’s engagement with preferred music: A case study
Authors: de Vries Peter
Published: October 2011

This case study of an 8-year-old’s engagement with preferred music was conducted by the researcher, who is also the child’s father. The aim of the research was not only to identify the child’s preferred music, but to find out why these were preferred pieces of music and, more specifically, to examine the way the child musicked with these preferred pieces of music. Observations of the child drawing to his preferred music, alongside conversation data and observations of the child musicking with these preferred pieces of music were conducted over a 4-week period. The child nominated five favourite pieces of music spanning a variety of styles and genres. These pieces were preferred because of familiarity with the music, and cultural and environmental influences. The child musicked with these preferred pieces in multiple ways, using a variety of media including digital technology, engaged in spontaneous musical play and exploration with the preferred music, and used this music in a variety of functional ways. Implications for music education are discussed, relating to a focus on exploring the functionality of music and the sonic qualities of music.
Market imperative meets normative power: Human rights and European arms transfer policy
Authors: Erickson Jennifer L.
Published: October 2011

Arms transfers are both an economic necessity for the European arms industry and a potential obstacle for the EU’s emerging normative power role. Nevertheless, research on how well EU members’ arms trade mirrors EU normative power rhetoric is scarce. To help fill this void, I use regression analysis to examine the relationship between EU arms exports and human rights, conflict, and democracy in recipient states from 1990 to 2004. A case study of the China embargo debate provides a more in-depth assessment of the politics behind EU arms transfers. Both analyses reveal a questionable relationship between EU norms and arms transfer practices. The findings suggest, first, that domestic-level material and normative concerns remain important to the formation and execution of EU foreign policy and, second, that low levels of EU socialization may hinder the creation of a single European external identity.
Severe case and literature review of primary erythromelalgia: Novel SCN9A gene mutation
Authors: Skeik Nedaa , Rooke Thom W , Davis Mark Denis P , Davis Dawn Marie R , Kalsi Henna , Kurth Ingo , Richardson Randal C
Published: October 2011

Erythromelalgia is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by intermittent heat, redness, swelling and pain more commonly affecting the lower extremities. Symptoms are mostly aggravated by warmth and are eased by a cold temperature. In some cases, symptoms can be very severe and disabling. Erythromelalgia can be classified as either familial or sporadic, with the familial form inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Recently, there has been a lot of progress in studying Na(v)1.7 sodium channels (expressed mostly in the sympathetic and nociceptive small-diameter sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglion) and different mutations affecting the encoding SCN9A gene that leads to channelopathies responsible for some disorders, including primary erythromelalgia. We present a severe case of progressive primary erythromelalgia caused by a new de novo heterozygous missense mutation (c.2623C>G) of the SCN9A gene which substitutes glutamine 875 by glutamic acid (p.Q875E). To our knowledge, this mutation has not been previously reported in the literature. We also provided a short literature review about erythromelalgia and Na(v) sodium channelopathies.
Quality of life in allergic rhinitis
Authors: Ozdoganoglu Tunis , Songu Murat , Inancli Hasan Mete
Published: October 2011

Allergic rhinitis is a global health problem that causes major illness and disability worldwide. Although nasal and nonnasal symptoms are directly attributable to inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, individuals also experience generalized symptoms that include fatigue, mood changes, depression, anxiety and impairments of work and school performance, and cognitive function. Health-related quality of life focuses on patients’ perceptions of their disease and measures impairments that have a significant impact on the patient. The burden of disease, as the patient perceives it, forms the basic motivation to seek medical aid or to undergo therapy. Adherence to therapy requires changes in health, perceived by patients as relevant and outweighing eventual disadvantages of intervention. Because so many factors are involved in health-related quality of life, there are multiple ways in which it can be measured. A variety of validated and standardized questionnaires have been developed including assessments of school performance, work performance, productivity, and other parameters that quantify the impact of allergic rhinitis and its treatment on quality of life. The aim of this review is to highlight the impact of allergic rhinitis on the quality of life and to analyze the most commonly used health-related quality of life instruments.
The redox-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2 regulates murine hematopoietic stem cell survival independently of ROS levels
Authors: Merchant Akil A. , Singh Anju , Matsui William , Biswal Shyam
Published: October 2011

Several studies have found that high levels of reactive oxidative species (ROS) are associated with stem cell dysfunction. In the present study, we investigated the role of nuclear factor erythroid-2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of the antioxidant response, and found that it is required for hematopoietic stem progenitor cell (HSPC) survival and myeloid development. Although the loss of Nrf2 leads to increased ROS in most tissues, basal ROS levels in Nrf2-deficient (Nrf2−/−) BM were not elevated compared with wild-type. Nrf2−/− HSPCs, however, had increased rates of spontaneous apoptosis and showed decreased survival when exposed to oxidative stress. Nrf2−/− BM demonstrated defective stem cell function, as evidenced by reduced chimerism after transplantation that was not rescued by treatment with the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine. Gene-expression profiling revealed that the levels of prosurvival cytokines were reduced in Nrf2−/− HSPCs. Treatment with the cytokine G-CSF improved HSPC survival after exposure to oxidative stress and rescued the transplantation defect in Nrf2−/− cells despite increases in ROS induced by cytokine signaling. These findings demonstrate a critical role for Nrf2 in hematopoiesis and stem cell survival that is independent of ROS levels.
Engineering pro-angiogenic peptides using stable, disulfide-rich cyclic scaffolds
Authors: Chan Lai Y. , Gunasekera Sunithi , Henriques Sonia T. , Worth Nathalie F. , Le Sarah-Jane , Clark Richard J. , Campbell Julie H. , Craik David J. , Daly Norelle L.
Published: October 2011

Fragments from the extracellular matrix proteins laminin and osteopontin and a sequence from VEGF have potent proangiogenic activity despite their small size (< 10 residues). However, these linear peptides have limited potential as drug candidates for therapeutic angiogenesis because of their poor stability. In the present study, we show that the therapeutic potential of these peptides can be significantly improved by “grafting” them into cyclic peptide scaffolds. Momordica cochinchinensis trypsin inhibitor-II (MCoTI-II) and sunflower trypsin inhibitor-1 (SFTI-1), naturally occurring, plant-derived cyclic peptides of 34 and 14 residues, respectively, were used as scaffolds in this study. Using this approach, we have designed a peptide that, in contrast to the small peptide fragments, is stable in human serum and at nanomolar concentration induces angiogenesis in vivo. This is the first report of using these scaffolds to improve the activity and stability of angiogenic peptide sequences and is a promising approach for promoting angiogenesis for therapeutic uses.
Publication bias is present in blood and marrow transplantation: an analysis of abstracts at an international meeting
Authors: Paulson Kristjan , Saeed Mahwash , Mills Jennifer , Cuvelier Geoff D. E. , Kumar Rajat , Raymond Colette , Robinson Tracy , Szwajcer David , Wall Donna , Seftel Matthew D.
Published: October 2011

Publication bias is the preferential publication of research with positive results, and is a threat to the validity of medical literature. Preliminary evidence suggests that research in blood and marrow transplantation (BMT) lacks publication bias. We evaluated publication bias at an international conference, the 2006 Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR)/American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (ASBMT) “tandem” meeting. All abstracts were categorized by type of research, funding status, number of centers, sample size, and direction of the results. Publication status was then determined for the abstracts by searching PubMed. Of 501 abstracts, 217 (43%) were later published as complete manuscripts. Abstracts with positive results were more likely to be published than those with negative or unstated results (P = .001). Furthermore, positive studies were published in journals with a mean impact factor of 6.92, whereas journals in which negative/unstated studies were published had an impact factor of only 4.30 (P = .02). We conclude that publication bias exists in the BMT literature. Full publication of research, regardless of direction of results, should be encouraged and the BMT community should be aware of the existence of publication bias.
Mast cells in COPD airways: relationship to bronchodilator responsiveness and angiogenesis
Authors: Soltani Amir , Ewe Yean Pin , Lim Zhen Sheng , Sohal Sukhwinder S. , Reid David , Weston Steve , Wood-Baker Richard , Walters E. Haydn
Published: October 2011

We have investigated whether mast cells are associated with bronchodilator responsiveness and airway vascular changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) airways. We have previously shown that the reticular basement membrane is hypervascular and the lamina propria is hypovascular in COPD.

Bronchial biopsies from 32 COPD subjects, 15 smokers with normal lung function and 17 controls, were immunostained for factor VIII, mast cell tryptase and chymase antibodies. Mast cells in the airway smooth muscle, the reticular basement membrane and the underlying lamina propria were quantitated.

41% of COPD subjects had significant bronchodilator responsiveness, but this was not related to smooth muscle mast cell numbers. The reticular basement membrane had greater mast cell density in all groups compared with controls (p<0.01). In this compartment, perivascular mast cell density was related to hypervascularity. Lamina propria mast cell density was increased only in COPD (p<0.05). Perivascular mast cell density in the lamina propria was not related to its decreased vessel density.

Bronchodilator responsiveness in COPD is not related to large airway smooth muscle mast cells of either type; both reticular basement membrane and lamina propria mast cells are increased in COPD patients, and perivascular mast cells may be involved in increased angiogenesis in the reticular basement membrane.
Effect of Mediterranean dietversusprudent diet combined with physical activity on OSAS: a randomised trial
Authors: Papandreou Christopher , Schiza Sophia E. , Bouloukaki Izolde , Hatzis Christos M. , Kafatos Anthony G. , Siafakas Nikolaos M. , Tzanakis Nikolaos E.
Published: October 2011

We aimed to evaluate the effect of the Mediterranean diet (MD) compared with a prudent diet (PD) combined with physical activity on obese obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) patients who were treated with continuous positive airway pressure.

900 patients were evaluated and 40 obese patients (body mass index ≥30.0 kg·m−2) who met the inclusion criteria, with moderate-to-severe OSAS (apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) >15 events·h−1and Epworth Sleepiness Scale score >10) based on overnight attended polysomnography, were included in the study. After randomisation, 20 patients followed the MD and 20 a PD for a 6-month period. All patients were counselled to increase their physical activity.

Concerning sleep parameters, only AHI during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep was reduced to a statistically significant degree, by mean±sd18.4±17.6 events·h−1in the MD group and by 2.6±23.7 events·h−1in the PD group (p<0.05). The MD group also showed a greater reduction in waist circumference (WC) (-8.7±3.6 cm), WC/height ratio (-0.04±0.02 cm·m−1) and WC/hip ratio (-0.04±0.03 cm·cm−1), compared with the other group (-2.6±1.7 events·h−1, -5.7±3.8 cm, -0.03±0.02 cm·m−1and 0.02±0.02 cm·cm−1, respectively; p<0.05).

Our results showed that the MD combined with physical activity for a 6-month period was effective in reducing the AHI during REM sleep without any statistically significant effect in the other sleep parameters, compared with a PD in obese adults with moderate-to-severe OSAS.
Relationship between the anti-inflammatory properties of salmeterol/fluticasone and the expression of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+regulatory T cells in COPD
Authors: Yang Li , Ma Qian-li , Yao Wei , Zhang Qiao , Chen Hua-ping , Wang Guan-song , Wang Chang-zheng
Published: October 2011

Background

Salmeterol and fluticasone combination (SFC) has anti-inflammatory effects and improves clinical symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of SFC remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the inflammatory responses of COPD, as well as the relationship of the inflammatory factors with the levels of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+regulatory T cells (Foxp3+Tregs) after SFC therapy.

Methods

Twenty-one patients with moderate or severe COPD received treatment with 50/500 μg of SFC twice a day for 12 weeks. Before and after treatment, the patients were evaluated using the Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) dyspnea scale and by conducting a 6-min walk test. The number of neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes in induced sputum were counted. Levels of cytokines, including pre-inflammatory IL-8, TNF-α, IL-17A and cytokine IL-10, in the sputum supernatant and peripheral blood were measured by ELISA. The proportion of Foxp3+Tregs in the total CD4+T cell of the peripheral blood was determined by flow cytometry. The relationship between IL-17A levels and the percentage of Foxp3+Tregs was analyzed by statistical analysis.

Results

After treatment with SFC, the forced expiratory volume in 1 s as a percentage of predicted values (FEV1%) and the 6-min walk distance in the COPD patients significantly increased, while dyspnea scores decreased. The total number of cells, neutrophils, and the percentage of neutrophils in induced sputum reduced notably, while the proportion of monocytes was significantly increased. Levels of the inflammatory cytokines IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-17A in the sputum supernatant and in the blood were markedly lowered, while IL-10 levels were unchanged. The proportion of Foxp3+Tregs in the total CD4+T cell population in the peripheral blood was drastically higher than that before treatment. The level of IL-17A was negatively correlated with the proportion of Foxp3+Tregs in CD4+T cells.

Conclusion

SFC can reduce the levels of inflammatory factors and improve symptoms of COPD. The levels of inflammatory factors are associated with the variation of Foxp3+Tregs in COPD.

Trial registration

This study was registered withhttp://www.chictr.org(Chinese Clinical Trial Register) as follows: ChiCTR-TNC-10001270
Altered microRNA expression in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TDP-43 pathology caused by progranulin mutations
Authors: Kocerha Jannet , Kouri Naomi , Baker Matt , Finch NiCole , DeJesus-Hernandez Mariely , Gonzalez John , Chidamparam Kumaravel , Josephs Keith A , Boeve Bradley F , Graff-Radford Neill R , Crook Julia , Dickson Dennis W , Rademakers Rosa
Published: October 2011

Background

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that can be triggered through genetic or sporadic mechanisms. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have become a major therapeutic focus as their pervasive expression and powerful regulatory roles in disease pathogenesis become increasingly apparent. Here we examine the role of miRNAs in FTLD patients with TAR DNA-binding protein 43 pathology (FTLD-TDP) caused by genetic mutations in the progranulin (PGRN) gene.

Results

Using miRNA array profiling, we identified the 20 miRNAs that showed greatest evidence (unadjusted P < 0.05) of dysregulation in frontal cortex of eight FTLD-TDP patients carrying PGRN mutations when compared to 32 FTLD-TDP patients with no apparent genetic abnormalities. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses provided technical validation of the differential expression for 9 of the 20 miRNAs in frontal cortex. Additional qRT-PCR analyses showed that 5 out of 9 miRNAs (miR-922, miR-516a-3p, miR-571, miR-548b-5p, and miR-548c-5p) were also significantly dysregulated (unadjusted P < 0.05) in cerebellar tissue samples of PGRN mutation carriers, consistent with a systemic reduction in PGRN levels. We developed a list of gene targets for the 5 candidate miRNAs and found 18 genes dysregulated in a reported FTLD mRNA study to exhibit anti-correlated miRNA-mRNA patterns in affected cortex and cerebellar tissue. Among the targets is brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 3, which was recently identified as an important player in synapse biology.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that miRNAs may contribute to the pathogenesis of FTLD-TDP caused by PGRN mutations and provides new insight into potential future therapeutic options.
ROS generation via NOX4 and its utility in the cytological diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder
Authors: Shimada Keiji , Fujii Tomomi , Anai Satoshi , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Konishi Noboru
Published: October 2011

Background

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production via NADPH oxidase (NOX) contributes to various types of cancer progression. In the present research, we examined the pathobiological role of NADPH oxidase (NOX)4-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the urinary bladder, and demonstrated the utility of ROS labeling in urine cytology.

Methods

NOX4 gene was silenced in vivo and in vitro by NOX4 siRNA transfection with or without atlocollagen. Cell cycle and measurement of ROS were analyzed by flowcytometry. Orthotopic implantation animal model was used in vivo experiment. NOX4 expression in urothelial carcinoma cells was observed by immunohistochemical analysis using surgical specimens of human bladder cancer. Urine cytology was performed after treatment with ROS detection reagents in addition to Papanicolaou staining.

Results

NOX4 was overexpressed in several UC cell lines and the NOX inhibitor, diphenylene iodonium reduced intracellular ROS and induced p16-dependent cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Moreover, silencing of NOX4 by siRNA significantly reduced cancer cell growth in vivo as assessed in an orthotopic mouse model. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated high expression of NOX4 in low grade/non-invasive and high grade/invasive UC including precancerous lesions such as dysplasia but not in normal urothelium. Then, we assessed the usefulness of cytological analysis of ROS producing cells in urine (ROS-C). Urine samples obtained from UC cases and normal controls were treated with fluorescent reagents labeling the hydrogen peroxide/superoxide anion and cytological atypia of ROS positive cells were analyzed. As a result, the sensitivity for detection of low grade, non-invasive UC was greatly increased (35% in conventional cytology (C-C) vs. 75% in ROS-C), and the specificity was 95%. Through ROS-C, we observed robust improvement in the accuracy of follow-up urine cytology for cases with previously diagnosed UC, especially in those with low grade/non-invasive cancer recurrence (0% in C-C vs. 64% in ROS-C).

Conclusions

This is the first report demonstrating that ROS generation through NOX4 contributes to an early step of urothelial carcinogenesis and cancer cell survival. In addition, cytology using ROS labeling could be a useful diagnostic tool in human bladder cancer.
Peritoneal keratin granuloma associated with endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the uterine corpus
Authors: Uehara Keiichiro , Yasuda Masanori , Ichimura Takaya , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Nagata Koji , Kayano Hidekazu , Sasaki Atsushi , Murata Shin-ichi , Shimizu Michio
Published: October 2011

We present a 69-year-old woman with a chief complaint of postmenopausal bleeding. She was diagnosed as having an endometrioid adenocarcinoma by biopsy, and underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy. At the time of surgery, granulation tissue-like nodules were found on the peritoneal serosa of the uterus. In the intraoperative cytology of peritoneal washing, atypical cells were noted. The intraoperative frozen section of the peritoneal nodule revealed granulation tissue with proliferating mesothelial cells. Microscopic examination of the permanent section showed keratin granulomas without viable adenocarcinoma cells on the serosal surface of the ovaries, fallopian tubes and broad ligaments. Postoperative chemotherapy was administered. She has been alive with no evidence of recurrence for 6 months postoperatively. It should be noted that the prognosis of cases in peritoneal keratin granuloma without viable cancer cells is favorable, and that the histological examination is essential for its diagnosis.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/7119869525769574.
A microRNA derived from an apparent canonical biogenesis pathway regulates variant surface protein gene expression in Giardia lamblia
Authors: Saraiya Ashesh A. , Li Wei , Wang Ching C.
Published: October 2011

We have previously shown that a snoRNA-derived microRNA, miR2, in Giardia lamblia potentially regulates the expression of 22 variant surface protein (VSP) genes. Here, we identified another miRNA, miR4, also capable of regulating the expression of several VSPs but derived from an unannotated open reading frame (ORF) rather than a snoRNA, suggesting a canonical miRNA biogenesis pathway in Giardia. miR4 represses expression of a reporter containing two miR4 antisense sequences at the 3′ UTR without causing a corresponding decrease in the mRNA level. This repression requires the presence of the Giardia Argonaute protein (GlAgo) and is reversed by 2′ O–methylated antisense oligo to miR4, suggesting an RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)–mediated mechanism. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro evidence suggested that the Giardia Dicer protein (GlDcr) is required for miR4 biogenesis. Coimmunoprecipitation of miR4 with GlAgo further verified miR4 as a miRNA. A total of 361 potential target sites for miR4 were bioinformatically identified in Giardia, out of which 69 (32.7%) were associated with VSP genes. miR4 reduces the expression of a reporter containing two copies of the target site from VSP (GL50803_36493) at the 3′ UTR. Sixteen of the 69 VSP genes were further found to contain partially overlapping miR2 and miR4 targeting sites. Expression of a reporter carrying the two overlapping sites was inhibited by either miR2 or miR4, but the inhibition was neither synergistic nor additive, suggesting a complex mechanism of miRNA regulation of VSP expression and the presence of a rich miRNAome in Giardia.
Contribution of base-pairing interactions between group II intron fragments during trans-splicing in vivo
Authors: Quiroga Cecilia , Kronstad Lisa , Ritlop Christine , Filion Audrey , Cousineau Benoit
Published: October 2011

Group II introns are mobile genetic elements that self-splice from pre-mRNA transcripts. Some fragmented group II introns found in chloroplastic and mitochondrial genomes are able to assemble and splice in trans. The Ll.LtrB group II intron from the Gram-positive bacterium Lactococcus lactis was shown to splice in trans when fragmented at various locations throughout its structure. Here we used Ll.LtrB to assess the contribution of base-pairing interactions between intron fragments during trans-splicing in vivo. By comparing closely located fragmentation sites, we show that Ll.LtrB trans-splices more efficiently when base-pairing interactions can occur between the two intron fragments. Disruptions and stepwise restorations of specific base-pairing interactions between intron fragments resulted respectively in significant reductions and recoveries of the Ll.LtrB trans-splicing efficiency. Finally, although we confirm that LtrA is an important co-factor for trans-splicing, its overexpression cannot compensate for the reduction in trans-splicing efficiency when the potential base-pairing interactions between intron fragments are disrupted. These findings demonstrate the important contribution of base-pairing interactions for the assembly of group II intron fragments during trans-splicing and rationalizes why such interactions were evolutionarily conserved in natural trans-splicing group II introns.
Insights into the molecular determinants of EF-G catalyzed translocation
Authors: Wang Leyi , Altman Roger B. , Blanchard Scott C.
Published: October 2011

Translocation, the directional movement of transfer RNA (tRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) substrates on the ribosome during protein synthesis, is regulated by dynamic processes intrinsic to the translating particle. Using single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET) imaging, in combination with site-directed mutagenesis of the ribosome and tRNA substrates, we show that peptidyl-tRNA within the aminoacyl site of the bacterial pretranslocation complex can adopt distinct hybrid tRNA configurations resulting from uncoupled motions of the 3′-CCA terminus and the tRNA body. As expected for an on-path translocation intermediate, the hybrid configuration where both the 3′-CCA end and body of peptidyl-tRNA have moved in the direction of translocation exhibits dramatically enhanced puromycin reactivity, an increase in the rate at which EF-G engages the ribosome, and accelerated rates of translocation. These findings provide compelling evidence that the substrate for EF-G catalyzed translocation is an intermediate wherein the bodies of both tRNA substrates adopt hybrid positions within the translating ribosome.
UAV based Multi-spectral Imaging System for Environmental Monitoring
Authors: De Biasio Martin , Arnold T. , Leitner R.
Published: October 2011

An airborne multi-spectral imaging system is demonstrated for agricultural applications. A compact multi-spectral image capture system was mounted on an unmanned autonomous vehicle (UAV) and used to survey a landscape. Five spectral bands (three visible, two near infrared bands) were imaged, processed and analyzed to measure the quantity of vegetation in the scene. The UAV equipped with the multi-spectral imaging system finished the test flights successfully and the results of these experiments suggest that this type of system would be useful for agricultural applications as precision farming or crop yield management.
Fast Detection of Transient Emission from Diesel Engine Using Optical and Differential Mobility Spectrometer Method
Authors: Viskup Richard , Oppenauer Klaus Siegfried , Alberer Daniel , del Re Luigi
Published: October 2011

The article describes and compares the sensitivity and dynamics of two fast measurement techniques for transient particulate matter (PM) emission from diesel engine. The laser induced incandescence was used as a laser based method, together with differential mobility spectrometer for rapid soot characterization. The main task is to reveal the most accurate and fast device for transient emissions. The obtained results will allow better understanding of PM formation and support dynamic emission modelling as well as control design of combustion process.
Appendicitis in Hungary through the eyes of a health insurance specialist
Authors: Gresz Miklós
Published: October 2011

Appendicitis is the most common surgical disease. There is a very large literature for both its diagnosis and therapy. Aims: The author examined whether patients who were admitted with the diagnosis of appendicitis underwent surgery and what admission diagnoses were reported in cases of surgically treated patients. Results: In Hungary, there have been more than 92,000 appendectomies performed in the last eleven years. The proportion of laparoscopic surgery was 2.0% in 2000 and it rose to 18.8% in 2010. Using database of the national health insurance the author found that 5.6% of all surgically treated patients were referred to hospital with a diagnosis other than appendicitis. In contrast, 18.1% of the patients referred to hospital with the diagnosis of appendicitis were discharged without surgery. Conclusions: In Hungary, there are large regional differences in the proportion of surgery. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 1843–1848.