bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-linear control algorithms for an unmanned surface vehicle
Authors: Sharma Sanjay K , Sutton Robert , Motwani Amit , Annamalai Andy
Published: November 2013

Although intrinsically marine craft are known to exhibit non-linear dynamic characteristics, modern marine autopilot system designs continue to be developed based on both linear and non-linear control approaches. This article evaluates two novel non-linear autopilot designs based on non-linear local control network and non-linear model predictive control approaches to establish their effectiveness in terms of control activity expenditure, power consumption and mission duration length under similar operating conditions. From practical point of view, autopilot with less energy consumption would in reality provide the battery-powered vehicle with longer mission duration. The autopilot systems are used to control the non-linear yaw dynamics of an unmanned surface vehicle named Springer. The yaw dynamics of the vehicle being modelled using a multi-layer perceptron-type neural network. Simulation results showed that the autopilot based on local control network method performed better for Springer. Furthermore, on the whole, the local control network methodology can be regarded as a plausible paradigm for marine control system design.
Cleland’s ligaments and Dupuytren’s disease
Authors: Shewring D. J. , Rethnam U.
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate whether Cleland’s ligaments are affected by Dupuytren’s disease and assess their contribution to the flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Twenty patients with Dupuytren’s disease undergoing fasciectomy for a PIP joint contracture > 40° (mean 61°, range 45°–100°) were included. After excision of all other identifiable digital disease, Cleland’s ligaments were assessed. If they appeared to be macroscopically affected by Dupuytren’s disease they were excised, sent for histological analysis, and any further improvement of PIP joint contracture was recorded. There were 14 males and six females with a mean age of 62 (range 40–79) years. Excision of Cleland’s ligaments resulted in a mean further correction of 7° (range 0°–15°). Histological analysis indicated that Cleland’s ligament was clearly involved with Dupuytren’s disease in 12 patients, indicating that Cleland’s ligaments can be affected by Dupuytren’s disease. In the remaining specimens the histological findings were equivocal. As these structures are situated dorsal to the neurovascular bundles, a specific dissection has to be undertaken to identify them. Excision of Cleland’s ligaments at digital fasciectomy further avoids leaving residual disease and may yield a worthwhile further correction of PIP joint flexion contracture.
Sequential use of novel therapeutics in advanced prostate cancer following docetaxel chemotherapy
Authors: Omlin Aurelius , Pezaro Carmel , Gillessen Sommer Silke
Published: November 2013

In the last three years, five novel treatments have been shown to improve survival in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). These novel treatments have distinct mechanisms of action: tubulin-binding chemotherapy (cabazitaxel); immunotherapy (sipuleucel-T); CYP-17 inhibition (abiraterone); androgen receptor (AR) blockade (enzalutamide); and radioisotope therapy (radium-223). For a number of years, docetaxel was the only treatment with a proven survival benefit for patients with CRPC. Therefore, somewhat artificially, three treatment spaces for drug development in CRPC have emerged: pre-docetaxel; docetaxel combinations; and post-docetaxel. For patients progressing after docetaxel-based chemotherapy, treatment options available outside of clinical trials now include abiraterone, cabazitaxel and enzalutamide. Prospective data on how to best use these novel agents sequentially are not available. Clinicians face the difficult task of choosing between treatment options for individual patients to maximize patient benefit. Treatment evaluation in patients with CRPC remains challenging due to the predominance of bone metastatic disease and the lack of validated surrogate markers for survival. This review summarizes the data available with regards to sequencing of the novel treatments for CRPC.
Evaluating the Use of Bortezomib and Eculizumab in Desensitization of Transplant Patients
Authors: Kwiatkowski Matthew , Welch Patrick , McComb Jennifer , Shepler Brian
Published: November 2013

Objective: To systematically review the existing literature concerning the utilization of bortezomib and eculizumab to determine if there is enough evidence to warrant their routine use in desensitization protocols for high-risk transplant candidates. Data Sources: PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched using the terms bortezomib, eculizumab, desensitization, transplant, highly-sensitized, pre-sensitized, and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). The articles included were published between January 2009 and August 2012. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language articles involving human subjects were assessed for inclusion. The search included articles evaluating the use of these agents in desensitization and the prevention of AMR, but excluded articles investigating these drugs in the treatment of established AMR. Data Synthesis: Highly sensitized transplant candidates are at an increased risk of developing AMR after transplant; desensitization potentially reduces this risk. The addition of bortezomib and eculizumab to current desensitization protocols may enhance outcomes. The bortezomib search produced 3 efficacy trials, 1 safety trial, 2 in-progress trials, 14 patient cases from 8 published case reports, and 3 efficacy study abstracts. Conclusions: Much of the available literature assessing the efficacy of bortezomib and eculizumab for use in desensitization exists as restricted clinical trials and incomplete case reports. Bortezomib and eculizumab appear to be potentially effective additions to current desensitization protocols. However, we are unable to determine at this time whether these agents improve the most clinically relevant outcome of successful transplantation. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to determine their true clinical efficacy in highly sensitized transplant candidates.
Comparison and improvement of algorithms for computing minimal cut sets
Authors: Jungreuthmayer Christian , Nair Govind , Klamt Steffen , Zanghellini Jürgen
Published: November 2013

Background

Constrained minimal cut sets (cMCSs) have recently been introduced as a framework to enumerate minimal genetic intervention strategies for targeted optimization of metabolic networks. Two different algorithmic schemes (adapted Berge algorithm and binary integer programming) have been proposed to compute cMCSs from elementary modes. However, in their original formulation both algorithms are not fully comparable.

Results

Here we show that by a small extension to the integer program both methods become equivalent. Furthermore, based on well-known preprocessing procedures for integer programming we present efficient preprocessing steps which can be used for both algorithms. We then benchmark the numerical performance of the algorithms in several realistic medium-scale metabolic models. The benchmark calculations reveal (i) that these preprocessing steps can lead to an enormous speed-up under both algorithms, and (ii) that the adapted Berge algorithm outperforms the binary integer approach.

Conclusions

Generally, both of our new implementations are by at least one order of magnitude faster than other currently available implementations.
Effect of artificial shading on the tannin accumulation and aromatic composition of the Grillo cultivar (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Scafidi Pietro , Pisciotta Antonino , Patti Davide , Tamborra Pasquale , Di Lorenzo Rosario , Barbagallo Maria Gabriella
Published: November 2013

Background

White wine quality, especially in warm climates, is affected by sunlight and heat stress. These factors increase the probability that ambering processes will occur and reduce the potential flavour compounds. This study aimed to investigate the effect of sunlight reduction on the accumulation of polyphenolic and aromatic compounds.

Results

This study was conducted in a commercial vineyard containingV. viniferaL. cv Grillo. Opaque polypropylene boxes (100% shading) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) net bags (50% shading) were applied at fruit set. The effect of the shaded treatments was compared to the exposed fruit treatment. The shaded treatments resulted in heavier berries and lower must sugar contents than the exposed treatments. Proanthocyanidins and total polyphenol levels were similar in the exposed and bagged grapes; however, the levels were always lower in the boxed fruit. At harvest, the highest aroma level was measured in the boxed fruits.

Conclusions

The boxed fruit had less sugar, fewer proanthocyanidins and more flavours than the exposed grapes.

The reduction in flavanols reactive to p-dimethylamino-cinnamaldehyde as (+)-catechin equivalents and total skin proanthocyanidins is an important result for the white winemaking process. In addition, the higher level of aromatic compounds in shaded grapes at harvest is an important contribution to the development of different wine styles.
Evaluation of Ertapenem use with Impact Assessment on Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBL) Production and Gram-Negative resistance in Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
Authors: Lim Cheryl Li-Ling , Lee Winnie , Lee Amanda Ling-Chiu , Liew Lisa Ting-Ting , Nah Szu Chin , Wan Choon Nam , Chlebicki Maciej Piotr , Kwa Andrea Lay-Hoon
Published: November 2013

Background

Ertapenem (preferred choice for ESBL-producing organisms) use exhibited an increasing trend from 2006 to 2008. As extensive use of ertapenem might induce the mutation of resistant bacteria strains to ertapenem, we aimed to assess the appropriateness and impact of ertapenem-use, on ESBL production, the trends of gram-negative bacterial resistance and on the utilization of other antibiotics in our institution.

Methods

Inpatients who received a dose of ertapenem during 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2008, were reviewed. Pertinent patient clinical data was extracted from the pharmacy databases and assessed for appropriateness based on dose and indication. Relevant data from Network for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance (Singapore) (NARSS) was extracted, to cross-correlate with ertapenem via time series to assess its impact on hospital epidemiology, trends of gram-negative resistance and consumption of other antibiotics from 2006 to mid-2010.

Results

906 cases were reviewed. Ertapenem therapy was appropriate in 72.4% (93.7% success rate). CNS adverse events were noted in 3.2%. Readmission rate (30-day) due to re-infection (same pathogen) was 5.5%. Fifty cases had cultures growing Pseudomonas aeruginosa within 30 days of ertapenem initiation, with 25 cases growing carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Ertapenem use increased from 0.45 DDD/100 patient days in 2006 to 1.2 DDD/100 patient days in mid-2010. Overall, the increasing trend of ertapenem consumption correlated with 1) increasing incidence-densities of ciprofloxacin-resistant/cephalosporin-resistant E. coli at zero time lag; 2) increasing incidence-densities of ertapenem-resistant Escherichia. coli and Klebsiella spp. at zero time lag; 3) increasing incidence-density of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, at zero time lag.

Increasing ertapenem consumption was significantly correlated with decreasing consumption of cefepime (R2 = 0.37344) 3 months later. It was significantly correlated with a decrease in imipenem consumption (R2 = 0.31081), with no time lag but was correlated with subsequent increasing consumption of meropenem (R2 = 0.4092) 6 months later.

Conclusion

Ertapenem use was appropriate. Increasing Ertapenem consumption did not result in a decreasing trend of ESBL producing enterobacteriaceae and could result in the selection for multi-drug resistant bacteria.
New method for retrospective study of hemodynamic changes before and after aneurysm formation in patients with ruptured or unruptured aneurysms
Authors: Le Wei-Jie , Zhu Yue-Qi , Li Ming-Hua , Yan Lei , Tan Hua-Qiao , Xiao Shi-Min , Cheng Ying-Sheng
Published: November 2013

Background

Prospective observation of hemodynamic changes before and after formation of brain aneurysms is often difficult. We used a vessel surface repair method to carry out a retrospective hemodynamic study before and after aneurysm formation in a ruptured aneurysm of the posterior communicating artery (RPcomAA) and an unruptured aneurysm of the posterior communicating artery (URPcomAA).

Methods

Arterial geometries obtained from three-dimensional digital subtraction angiography of cerebral angiograms were used for flow simulation by employing finite-volume modeling. Hemodynamic parameters such as wall shear stress (WSS), blood-flow velocity, streamlines, pressure, and wall shear stress gradient (WSSG) in the aneurysm sac and at the site of aneurysm formation were analyzed in each model.

Results

At “aneurysm” status, hemodynamic analyses at the neck, body, and dome of the aneurysm revealed the distal aneurysm neck to be subjected to the highest WSS and blood-flow velocity, whereas the aneurysm dome presented the lowest WSS and blood-flow velocity in both model types. More apparent changes in WSSG at the aneurysm dome with an inflow jet and narrowed impaction zone were revealed only in the RPcomAA. At “pre-aneurysm” status, hemodynamic analyses in both models showed that the region of aneurysm formation was subjected to extremely elevated WSS, WSSG, and blood-flow velocity.

Conclusions

These data suggest that hemodynamic analyses in patients with ruptured or unruptured aneurysms using the vessel surface repair method are feasible, economical, and simple. Our preliminary results indicated that the arterial wall was subjected to elevated WSS, WSSG and blood-flow velocity before aneurysm generation. However, more complicated flow patterns (often with an inflow jet or narrowed impaction zone) were more likely to be observed in ruptured aneurysm.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: A synthetic dsRNA, as a TLR3 pathwaysynergist, combined with sorafenib suppresses HCC in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Xu Yu-Yin , Chen Li , Wang Gui-Lan , Zhou Jia-Ming , Zhang Yi-Xin , Wei Yin-Ze , Zhu Yuan-Yuan , Qin Jing
Published: November 2013

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated that synthetic dsRNAs may produce therapeutic effects in a target-independent manner through stimulation of the toll-like receptor-3 (TLR3)/interferon pathway; as a result, angiogenesis and proliferation of tumor cells are inhibited. Thus, this pathway may become a potential target of dsRNA in tumor suppression. In this study, we evaluated the role of synthetic dsRNA as a TLR3 synergist and by combining with sorafenib in anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Four dsRNAs were designed and synthesized. One of them that was capable of activating TLR3 most effectively in human HCC cell line (HepG2.2.15) was selected as a TLR3 synergist (called BM-06). Subsequently, the expression of proteins relating to TLR3 signaling pathway, such as NF-κB, caspase 8 survivin, bcl-2 and PCNA affected by BM-06, sorafenib alone or in combination, was compared. The migration, proliferation and apoptosis of HepG2.2.15 cells were evaluated in presence of BM-06, sorafenib alone or in combination of both. The similar treatments were also applied in an SD rat primary HCC model.

Results

qRT-PCR data showed that the expression of TLR3 and NF-κB in HepG2.2.15 cells was enhanced. BM-06 was selected as a TLR3 synergist capable of activating the TLR3/interferon pathway most effective among 4 synthetic dsRNAs. The migration and proliferation were significantly inhibited in treated HepG2.2.15 cells with BM-06 or Sorafenib alone as compared with PBS-sham control (P < 0.01). However, the role of combination BM-06 with Sorafenib was the most prominent. Tumor cell apoptotic rate was increased by BM-06 or combination when compared to PBS or poly(I:C) (P < 0.05). Similarly, in orthotopic HCC SD rats, the effect of the combination was superior to either agent alone on the inhibition of tumor growth and induction of HCC cell apoptosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

dsRNA alone was capable of inhibiting the proliferation of HepG2.2.15 cells and tumor growth of orthotopic HCC SD rats, but the effect of combination of dsRNA with sorafenib was more prominent. These findings implicate the potential role of combined use of a dsRNA, a TLR3 synergist, and sorafenib in inhibition of HCC.
An evidential reasoning based model for diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Guo , Liu Fang , Jiao Li-Cheng , Wang Zhi-Long , Zhang Xiao-Peng , Wang Xiao-Dong , Luo Xiao-Zhuo
Published: November 2013

Background

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) in gastric cancer is a very important prognostic factor affecting long-term survival. Currently, several common imaging techniques are used to evaluate the lymph node status. However, they are incapable of achieving both high sensitivity and specificity simultaneously. In order to deal with this complex issue, a new evidential reasoning (ER) based model is proposed to support diagnosis of LNM in gastric cancer.

Methods

There are 175 consecutive patients who went through multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) consecutively before the surgery. Eight indicators, which are serosal invasion, tumor classification, tumor enhancement pattern, tumor thickness, number of lymph nodes, maximum lymph node size, lymph node station and lymph node enhancement are utilized to evaluate the tumor and lymph node through CT images. All of the above indicators reflect the biological behavior of gastric cancer. An ER based model is constructed by taking the above indicators as input index. The output index determines whether LNM occurs for the patients, which is decided by the surgery and histopathology. A technique called k-fold cross-validation is used for training and testing the new model. The diagnostic capability of LNM is evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. A Radiologist classifies LNM by adopting lymph node size for comparison.

Results

134 out of 175 cases are cases of LNM, and the remains are not. Eight indicators have statistically significant difference between the positive and negative groups. The sensitivity, specificity and AUC of the ER based model are 88.41%, 77.57% and 0.813, respectively. However, for the radiologist evaluating LNM by maximum lymph node size, the corresponding values are only 63.4%, 75.6% and 0.757. Therefore, the proposed model can obtain better performance than the radiologist. Besides, the proposed model also outperforms other machine learning methods.

Conclusions

According to the biological behavior information of gastric cancer, the ER based model can diagnose LNM effectively and preoperatively.
Efficient BST2 antagonism by Vpu is critical for early HIV-1 dissemination in humanized mice
Authors: Dave Vibhuti P , Hajjar Fadi , Dieng Mame Massar , Haddad Élie , Cohen Éric A
Published: November 2013

Background

Vpu is a multifunctional accessory protein that enhances the release of HIV-1 by counteracting the entrapment of nascent virions on infected cell surface mediated by BST2/Tetherin. Vpu-mediated BST2 antagonism involves physical association with BST2 and subsequent mislocalization of the restriction factor to intracellular compartments followed by SCF(β-TrCP) E3 ligase-dependent lysosomal degradation. Apart from BST2 antagonism, Vpu also induces down regulation of several immune molecules, including CD4 and SLAMF6/NTB-A, to evade host immune responses and promote viral dissemination. However, it should be noted that the multiple functions of Vpu have been studied in cell-based assays, and thus it remains unclear how Vpu influences the dynamic of HIV-1 infection in in vivo conditions.

Results

Using a humanized mouse model of acute infection as well as CCR5-tropic HIV-1 that lack Vpu or encode WT Vpu or Vpu with mutations in the β-TrCP binding domain, we provide evidence that Vpu-mediated BST2 antagonism plays a crucial role in establishing early plasma viremia and viral dissemination. Interestingly, we also find that efficient HIV-1 release and dissemination are directly related to functional strength of Vpu in antagonizing BST2. Thus, reduced antagonism of BST2 due to β-TrCP binding domain mutations results in decreased plasma viremia and frequency of infected T cells, highlighting the importance of Vpu-mediated β-TrCP-dependent BST-2 degradation for optimal initial viral propagation.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings suggest that BST2 antagonism by Vpu is critical for efficient early viral expansion and dissemination during acute infection and as such is likely to confer HIV-1 increased transmission fitness.
“Spin” in wound care research: the reporting and interpretation of randomized controlled trials with statistically non-significant primary outcome results or unspecified primary outcomes
Authors: Lockyer Suzanne , Hodgson Rob , Dumville Jo C , Cullum Nicky
Published: November 2013

Background

Spin in the reporting of randomized controlled trials, where authors report research in a way that potentially misrepresents results and mislead readers, has been demonstrated in the broader medical literature. We investigated spin in wound care trials with (a) no statistically significant result for the primary outcome and (b) no clearly specified primary outcome.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialised Register of Trials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Eligible studies were: Parallel-group RCTs of interventions for foot, leg or pressure ulcers published in 2004 to 2009 (inclusive) with either a clearly identified primary outcome for which there was a statistically non-significant result (Cohort A) or studies that had no clear primary outcome (Cohort B).

We extracted general study details. For both Cohorts A and B we then assessed for the presence of spin. For Cohort A we used a pre-defined process to assess reports for spin. For Cohort B we aimed to assess spin by recording the number of positive treatment effect claims made. We also compared the number of statistically significant and non-significant results reported in the main text and the abstract looking specifically for spin in the form of selective outcome reporting.

Results

Of the 71 eligible studies, 28 were eligible for Cohort A; of these, 71% (20/28) contained spin. Cohort B contained 43 studies; of these, 86% (37/43) had abstracts that claimed a favorable treatment claim. Whilst 74% (32/43) of main text results in Cohort B included at least one statistically non-significant result, this was not reflected in the abstract where only 28% contained (12/43) at least one statistically non-significant result.

Conclusions

Spin is a frequent phenomenon in reports of RCTs of wound treatments. Studies without statistically significant results for the primary outcome used spin in 71% of cases. Furthermore, 33% (43/132) of reports of wound RCTs did not specify a primary outcome and there was evidence of spin and selective outcome reporting in the abstracts of these. Readers should be wary of only reading the abstracts of reports of RCTs of wound treatments since they are frequently misleading regarding treatment effects.
Comparison of the effects of photon versus carbon ion irradiation when combined with chemotherapy in vitro
Authors: Schlaich Fabian , Brons Stephan , Haberer Thomas , Debus Jürgen , Combs Stephanie E , Weber Klaus Josef
Published: November 2013

Background

Characterization of combination effects of chemotherapy drugs with carbon ions in comparison to photons in vitro.

Methods

The human colon adenocarcinoma cell line WiDr was tested for combinations with camptothecin, cisplatin, gemcitabine and paclitaxel. In addition three other human tumour cell lines (A549: lung, LN-229: glioblastoma, PANC-1: pancreas) were tested for the combination with camptothecin. Cells were irradiated with photon doses of 2, 4, 6 and 8 Gy or carbon ion doses of 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 Gy. Cell survival was assessed using the clonogenic growth assay. Treatment dependent changes in cell cycle distribution (up to 12 hours post-treatment) were measured by FACS analysis after propidium-iodide staining. Apoptosis was monitored for up to 36 hours post-treatment by Nicoletti-assay (with qualitative verification using DAPI staining).

Results

All cell lines exhibited the well-known increase of killing efficacy per unit dose of carbon ion exposure, with relative biological efficiencies at 10% survival (RBE10) ranging from 2.3 to 3.7 for the different cell lines. In combination with chemotherapy additive toxicity was the prevailing effect. Only in combination with gemcitabine or cisplatin (WiDr) or camptothecin (all cell lines) the photon sensitivity was slightly enhanced, whereas purely independent toxicities were found with the carbon ion irradiation, in all cases. Radiation-induced cell cycle changes displayed the generally observed dose-dependent G2-arrest with little effect on S-phase fraction for all cell lines for photons and for carbon ions. Only paclitaxel showed a significant induction of apoptosis in WiDr cell line but independent of the used radiation quality.

Conclusions

Combined effects of different chemotherapeutics with photons or with carbon ions do neither display qualitative nor substantial quantitative differences. Small radiosensitizing effects, when observed with photons are decreased with carbon ions. The data support the idea that a radiochemotherapy with common drugs and carbon ion irradiation might be as feasible as respective photon-based protocols. The present data serve as an important radiobiological basis for further combination experiments, as well as clinical studies on combination treatments.
Hypernatremia in patients with severe traumatic brain injury: a systematic review
Authors: Kolmodin Leif , Sekhon Mypinder S , Henderson William R , Turgeon Alexis F , Griesdale Donald EG
Published: November 2013

Background

Hypernatremia is common following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and occurs from a variety of mechanisms, including hyperosmotic fluids, limitation of free water, or diabetes insipidus. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the relationship between hypernatremia and mortality in patients with TBI.

Methods

We searched the following databases up to November 2012: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL. Using a combination of MeSH and text terms, we developed search filters for the concepts of hypernatremia and TBI and included studies that met the following criteria: (1) compared hypernatremia to normonatremia, (2) adult patients with TBI, (3) presented adjusted outcomes for mortality or complications.

Results

Bibliographic and conference search yielded 1,152 citations and 11 abstracts, respectively. Sixty-five articles were selected for full-text review with 5 being included in our study. All were retrospective cohort studies totaling 5,594 (range 100–4,296) patients. There was marked between-study heterogeneity. The incidence of hypernatremia ranged between 16% and 40%. Use of hyperosmolar therapy was presented in three studies (range 14-85% of patients). Hypernatremia was associated with increased mortality across all four studies that presented this outcome. Only one study considered diabetes insipidus (DI) in their analysis where hypernatremia was associated with increased mortality in patients who did not receive DDAVP.

Conclusions

Although hypernatremia was associated with increased mortality in the included studies, there was marked between-study heterogeneity. DI was a potential confounder in several studies. Considering these limitations, the clinical significance of hypernatremia in TBI is difficult to establish at this stage.
Natural weathering studies of oil palm trunk lumber (OPTL) green polymer composites enhanced with oil palm shell (OPS) nanoparticles
Authors: Islam Md Nazrul , Dungani Rudi , Abdul Khalil HPS , Alwani M Siti , Nadirah WO Wan , Fizree H Mohammad
Published: November 2013

In this study, a green composite was produced from Oil Palm Trunk Lumber (OPTL) by impregnating oil palm shell (OPS) nanoparticles with formaldehyde resin. The changes of physical, mechanical and morphological properties of the OPS nanoparticles impregnated OPTL as a result of natural weathering was investigated. The OPS fibres were ground with a ball-mill for producing nanoparticles before being mixed with the phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin at a concentration of 1, 3, 5 and 10% w/w basis and impregnated into the OPTL by vacuum-pressure method. The treated OPTL samples were exposed to natural weathering for the period of 6 and 12 months in West Java, Indonesia according to ASTM D1435-99 standard. Physical and mechanical tests were done for analyzing the changes in phenol formaldehyde-nanoparticles impregnated (PF-NPI) OPTL. FT-IR and SEM studies were done to analyze the morphological changes. The results showed that both exposure time of weathering and concentration of PF-NPI had significant impact on physical and mechanical properties of OPTL. The longer exposure of samples to weathering condition reduced the wave numbers during FT-IR test. However, all these physical, mechanical and morphological changes were significant when compared with the untreated samples or only PF impregnated samples. Thus, it can be concluded that PF-NP impregnation into OPTL improved the resistance against natural weathering and would pave the ground for improved products from OPTL for outdoor conditions.
Proteomic profiling and functional characterization of early and late shoulder osteoarthritis
Authors: Wanner John Paul , Subbaiah Roopashree , Skomorovska-Prokvolit Yelenna , Shishani Yousef , Boilard Eric , Mohan Sujatha , Gillespie Robert , Miyagi Masaru , Gobezie Reuben
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The development of effective treatments for osteoarthritis (OA) has been hampered by a poor understanding of OA at the cellular and molecular levels. Emerging as a disease of the 'whole joint’, the importance of the biochemical contribution of various tissues, including synovium, bone and articular cartilage, has become increasingly significant. Bathing the entire joint structure, the proteomic analysis of synovial fluid (SF) from osteoarthritic shoulders offers a valuable 'snapshot’ of the biologic environment throughout disease progression. The purpose of this study was to identify differentially expressed proteins in early and late shoulder osteoarthritic SF in comparison to healthy SF.

Methods

A quantitative 18O labeling proteomic approach was employed to identify the dysregulated SF proteins in early (n = 5) and late (n = 4) OA patients compared to control individuals (n = 5). In addition, ELISA was used to quantify six pro-inflammatory and two anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Results

Key results include a greater relative abundance of proteins related to the complement system and the extracellular matrix in SF from both early and late OA. Pathway analyses suggests dysregulation of the acute phase response, liver x receptor/retinoid x receptor (LXR/RXR), complement system and coagulation pathways in both early and late OA. The network related to lipid metabolism was down-regulated in both early and late OA. Inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL) 6, IL 8 and IL 18 were up-regulated in early and late OA.

Conclusions

The results suggest a dysregulation of wound repair pathways in shoulder OA contributing to the presence of a 'chronic wound’ that progresses irreversibly from early to later stages of OA. Protease inhibitors were downregulated in late OA suggesting uncontrolled proteolytic activity occurring in late OA. These results contribute to the theory that protease inhibitors represent promising therapeutic agents which could limit proteolytic activity that ultimately leads to cartilage destruction.
Trends in physician diagnosed gout and gout therapies in the US: results from the national ambulatory health care surveys 1993 to 2009
Authors: Krishnan Eswar , Chen Linjun
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Gouty arthritis (gout) is primarily cared for in ambulatory care settings. Although the prevalence of gout in the US is thought to be increasing, there have been few data on this as well as temporal changes in gout medication use.

Methods

We analyzed annual visit and drug utilization data from national sample surveys of physician practices and hospital outpatient clinics in the US from 1993 to 2009. Gout diagnosis was recorded by individual physicians.

Result

The frequency of visits for gout increased three-fold from 1993 through 2009; most of the increases were observed from 2003 onwards. The increase was only partly explained by changes in age and gender composition of the surveys over time. A concomitant increase in prescriptions for allopurinol and colchicine and decrease in prescriptions for anti-inflammatories was observed. Aspirin use, a putative risk factor for gout and gout flares, increased substantially over this period. Probenecid use was negligible. Frequency of systemic steroid use has not changed over time.

Conclusions

The number of ambulatory visits for gout has increased almost three-fold in the first decade of the millennium coinciding with increases in physician and patient awareness. This increase was primarily due to visits among the elderly. Uricosuric use remained negligible whereas the uses of allopurinol and colchicine have increased rapidly. Use of traditional non-steroidals has declined, possibly due to safety concerns whereas glucocorticoid use remains unchanged.
Cellular mosaicism for X-linked polymorphisms and IRAK1 expression presents a distinct phenotype and improves survival following sepsis
Authors: Chandra Rachna , Federici Stephanie , Németh Zoltán H , Csóka Balázs , Thomas James A , Donnelly Robert , Spolarics Zoltán
Published: November 2013

ChrX cellular mosaicism for X-linked genetic polymorphisms in females versus the single ChrX representation in males denotes a genetic difference, which may contribute to gender bias in the inflammatory response. This hypothesis was tested in female F1 offspring of consomic mice (BL6J-ChrXA/J/NaJ) that were homokaryotic or mosaic for the active BL6 and AJ ChrXs or for IRAK1 deficiency linked to the BL6 ChrX. Sepsis was initiated by CLP. IRAK1-deficient and IRAK1-mosaic mice showed similar protection from sepsis-induced mortality and reduced IL-6 and IL-10 release compared with WT. BM cellularity and blood B cell counts were increased in naive IRAK1-mosaic mice compared with WT-mosaic or IRAK1-deficient animals. Sepsis-induced BM cell depletion was greater in IRAK1-mosaic mice compared with WT-mosaic or IRAK1-deficient subjects, whereas splenic B and T cell depletion was less in IRAK1-mosaic and IRAK1-deficient than WT-mosaic mice. Skewing toward AJ or BL6-ChrX-expressing cells was assessed by testing allele-specific expression of strain-variant Xkrx and BTK genes. In naive IRAK1-mosaic mice, BM and blood cells with the active BL6-ChrX, were greater than cells expressing the AJ-ChrX (cell ratio 2.5 in IRAK1-mosaic; 1.5 in WT-mosaic mice). Sepsis decreased cell ratios more in IRAK1-mosaic than in WT-mosaic mice. The study reveals functional variability in cellular mosaicism for IRAK1 expression and natural X-linked polymorphisms during sepsis. Mosaicism for IRAK1 expression is accompanied by skewing toward deficient immune cell populations, producing a phenotype that is preconditioned for improved sepsis outcome similar to that observed in IRAK1 deficiency.
John Ashbery’s Free Indirect Labor
Authors: Bernes Jasper
Published: November 2013

The early poems of John Ashbery must be read, in part, as a meditation on the plight of labor, particularly white-collar labor, in the postwar United States. Beginning with a very early poem, “The Instruction Manual” (1956), and its exploration of the ambiguous class position of white-collar workers, the essay tracks themes and formalizations of both labor and management as they continue in Ashbery’s highly experimental second book, The Tennis Court Oath (1962). In this book the standpoint of the earlier poem gives way to an explosion of shifting voices as Ashbery’s distinctive use of free indirect discourse and other techniques of point of view registers the contemporary breakdown in labor relations and the crisis for established modes of management. In Ashbery’s mature style of the 1970s, this chaotic play of voices yields to a comparatively measured technology of point of view, which reflects the new modes of management that followed the crises of the 1960s and 1970s.
Should the Affordable Care Act's Preventive Services Coverage Provision Be Used to Widely Disseminate Whole Genome Sequencing to Americans?
Authors: Payne Perry W.
Published: November 2013

I argue that the provision of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) of 2010, which eliminates cost sharing for preventive services, should be utilized as a pathway for reimbursing whole genome sequencing (WGS) and making it widely available to most Americans. This act provides multiple routes for determining which preventive services receive this designation. Three of these routes should be considered as pathways for reimbursing WGS, including approval by the United States Preventive Services Task Force, inclusion in the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics Bright Futures Project, and classification as a preventive service for women by the Institute of Medicine. There are valid arguments against the expansion of this technology, including inadequate national and state laws prohibiting genetic discrimination, informed consent limitations, and potentially expensive genome interpretations. These concerns should not inhibit the wide dissemination of this technology, as current efforts by the NIH and industry to expand the use of genome sequencing demonstrate. The ACA should be used as a tool to prevent disparities in access to genome information in the United States and avoid the development of a two-tiered health system based on those with and without genome sequence data.
The AIDS epidemic in south Florida: black non-Hispanics in our communities remain increasingly vulnerable
Authors: Velis Evelio , Shaw Graham P.
Published: November 2013

We compared demographic variables of individuals in Miami-Dade County, Florida, USA, with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) during two time periods (1993 - 1995 and 2009 - 2011). Incidence and mortality-related data were explored in this observational study. Tests of significance were performed to identify differences or associations between selected groups. A correlation analysis was conducted to identify relationships between AIDS diagnosis and socioeconomic indicators. We observed a reduction in the number of new AIDS cases reported and AIDS-related mortality. Nonetheless, AIDS is still disproportionately affecting the black non-Hispanic population. Black non-Hispanic women remain particularly vulnerable to the disease. A positive correlation between AIDS diagnosis and poverty rate and the lack of health insurance, and a negative correlation between AIDS diagnosis and education level were identified. Though the actual number of AIDS cases is declining in this region, it continues to disproportionately affect the poorer, less well educated communities. Despite the availability of improved medication, people in these communities remain particularly vulnerable.
La división territorial valenciana: antecedentes, problemas y política de la Generalitat
Authors: Membrado Tena Joan Carles
Published: November 2013

La Comunitat Valenciana cuenta con una división territorial oficial en dos niveles, formada por 3 provincias y 542 municipios, que se encuentra muy arraigada en la conciencia de la sociedad valenciana. Sin embargo, con el fin de evitar duplicidades y adelgazar la administración, notables políticos y empresarios abogan hoy por la supresión las competencias de las diputaciones provinciales. Algunos intelectuales valencianistas han denunciado además los inconvenientes de la división territorial valenciana en tres provincias, ya que el hecho que una de las tres (la de València) lleve el nombre de todo el territorio debilita la identidad valenciana, especialmente entre los ciudadanos de las otras dos provincias, y dificulta la vertebración territorial. En este artículo nos referiremos a los antecedentes históricos de la división territorial de València, desde la fundación del reino valenciano en el siglo xiii hasta el establecimiento de la actual división provincial (en la primera mitad del siglo xix). También presentaremos las principales propuestas de división comarcal del País Valenciano, con sus pros y contras. Finalmente expondremos cuál ha sido la política llevada a cabo por la Generalitat Valenciana en este campo: después de 30 años de vigencia de un Estatut que contempla la división comarcal, no parece que el actual gobierno valenciano tenga el menor interés por abordar esta cuestión, ni parece que esté entre sus prioridades la reforma o supresión de las diputaciones.
Actividad agraria y urbanización: desarrollo de un protocolo de valoración para el País Vasco
Authors: Alberdi Collantes Juan Cruz
Published: November 2013

Con demasiada frecuencia, especialmente en los espacios periurbanos, el suelo agrario es ocupado por actividades urbanas. Las explotaciones se reducen progresivamente y el paisaje rural deja paso a una mezcolanza de usos, con una evidente pérdida de calidad. Este proceso rara vez es sometido a estudios de impacto ambiental y la intervención se reduce a una retribución económica al agricultor por el suelo que es ocupado. En este artículo proponemos una metodología que valore el impacto real que la actuación urbanística tiene tanto sobre la explotación como sobre el suelo agrario que se pierde obligando a compensar económica y territorialmente al agricultor.
Frequency of Contamination with Listeria Monocytogenes of Raw Dried Cured Vacuum Packed Sausages
Authors: Daskalov Hristo , Fejzullah Fejzulla , Daskalova Alexandra
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to collect actual data concerning the frequency of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes of some raw dried cured vacuum packed sausages, which are very popular in Bulgaria produced from Oct. 2004 till May 2008. 148 vacuum-packed samples were taken from 9 different food business operators during all seasons of the year. The samples were analyzed according to the USDA method for meat foods. Ten specimens were positive for presence of Listeria monocytogenes, which is equal to 6,75% of all tested samples. In two other raw dried cured sausages L. welshimeri and L.innocua were found, but these species are not pathogenic for consumers. In the period before the official implementation of the HACCP system (01.01.2006) in Bulgaria, 52 samples were examined and 5 Listeria monocytogenes isolates were found (~10%). 2,5 years after the HACCP implementation, 96 specimens from the same meat factories were tested and 5 Listeria monocytogenes isolates (5,2%) were detected. Samples taken from lots, produced in winter time were contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes more often (7 of all 10) than specimens taken during other seasons. Data was discussed through the point of view of the effectiveness of hygienic practices and HACCP system application. Also, application of the ‘microbiological criterion’ set in the COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 2073/2005 for ready-to-eat foods unable to support the growth of L. monocytogenes was considered.
Bio-based epoxy resins with low molecular weight kraft lignin and pyrogallol
Authors: Engelmann Gunnar , Ganster Johannes
Published: November 2013

A low-molecular lignin fraction (L) was extracted for the preparation of bio-based epoxy resins. Various compositions with the “green” 1,3-glycerol diglycidyl ether (1) and the co-component pyrogallol (2) were tested. In a first series of experiments, thermosets consisting of 1 and L, were studied with respect to variable lignin contents between 20 and 50%. The best thermoset has a tensile strength of 37 MPa and a Young’s modulus of 2.2 GPa at 40% lignin input. Secondly, lignin-free compositions of 1 and 2 were prepared. For a molar fraction of the functional groups (nOH nEpoxy
-1) of 130%, the tensile strength could be enhanced to 93 MPa and the modulus reached 3.7 GPa. Finally, systems with all three components were examined. The best mechanical performance of the corresponding neat thermosets was reached at nOH nEpoxy
-1 of 130%. Tensile strength decreases slightly to 86 MPa and Young’s modulus remains nearly unchanged at 3.2 GPa. Two resin compositions, L+1 and L+1+2, were tested for the preparation of unidirectional composites reinforced with man-made cellulosic fibers (50% by vol.). The bending strength was 208 MPa in combination with a bending modulus of 12.5 GPa.
Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and heme biomineralization inhibitory properties of Entada africana ethanol leaf extract with antiplasmodial activity against Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Ezenyi Ifeoma C. , Ranarivelo Lalasoanirina , Oluwakanyinsola Salawu A. , Emeje Martins
Published: November 2013

Background:
Entada africana (EA) is a medicinal plant used in West Africa for the treatment of malaria fever, but its efficacy against malaria is yet to be scientifically validated. Our study explores the antimalarial potential of the ethanol leaf extract of EA.

Methods: The antiplasmodial activity of EA against chloroquine-sensitive (HB3) and chloroquine-resistant (FcM29) Plasmodium falciparum was determined as well as its peripheral antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties. The effect of the extract on human monocytic (THP-1) cells was recorded as a measure of cytotoxicity, whereas the inhibitory effect on heme detoxification was evaluated as a possible mechanism of antiplasmodial activity.

Results: At a concentration of 100 μg/mL, EA was noncytotoxic and displayed moderate antiplasmodial activity against HB3 and FcM29 (IC50=26.36 and 28.86 μg/mL, respectively). It also exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of synthetic heme (IC50=16 mg/mL). The extract (200 mg/kg body weight) showed significant (p<0.05) inhibition of paw inflammation, and significantly (p<0.01, 0.05) reduced the number of abdominal writhes induced by acetic acid (58.62%–65.51%), which was higher compared to that of diclofenac (50%, p<0.05).

Conclusions: These findings suggest that peripheral antinociceptive effects and parasiticidal activity of EA contribute to its antimalarial properties and it can be further explored as effective therapy against malaria infection.
Landscape genetics in mammals
Authors: Montgelard Claudine , Zenboudji Saliha , Ferchaud Anne-Laure , Arnal Véronique , van Vuuren Bettine Jansen
Published: November 2013

The focus of this review is on landscape genetics (LG), a relatively new discipline that arose approximately 10 years ago. LG spans the interface between population genetics and landscape ecology and thus incorporates the concepts, methods, and tools from both disciplines. On the basis of an understanding of the spatial distribution of genetic diversity, LG aims to explain how landscape and environmental characteristics influence microevolutionary processes and metapopulation dynamics, including gene flow (i.e., connectivity) and selection (i.e., local adaptations). LG is concerned with events that occurred during the recent time scale, and the individual is the operational unit. As a discipline that combines spatial genetic diversity with ecological features, LG is able to address questions relating to different evolutionary processes. We illustrate some of these here using examples taken from mammals: population structure; gene flow and the identification of barriers; fragmentation, connectivity, and corridors; local adaptation and selection; there are two different questions: applications in conservation genetics; and future developments in LG. We will then present the methods and tools commonly used in the different steps of LG analyses: the genetic and landscape sampling, the quantification of genetic variation, the characterization of spatial landscape structures, and finally, the correlation between genetic patterns and landscape features.