bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of Exposure to Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiae among Arizona Dogs Outside a Previously Documented Outbreak Area
Authors: McQuiston J. H. , Guerra M. A. , Watts M. R. , Lawaczeck E. , Levy C. , Nicholson W. L. , Adjemian J. , Swerdlow D. L.
Published: December 2009

Since 2003, two communities in eastern Arizona have experienced a sustained outbreak of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), caused byRickettsia rickettsii, associated with transmission byRhipicephalus sanguineus, the brown dog tick; 70 human cases, including eight deaths, were reported from these communities during 2003 through 2008. In both of the affected communities, antibodies to spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) were present in dogs before the notice of the first human cases, suggesting that dogs may serve as useful sentinels for human risk of RMSF in this region. During 2005 and 2006, an exploratory serosurvey was conducted among stray and relinquished dogs presenting to animal control facilities in eastern Arizona located outside the area where human cases had been reported. Antibodies to SFGR were detected in 5.7% (14 of 247) dogs assessed outside the RMSF outbreak area. Animal shelters located in counties that either included or shared large borders with the outbreak area were significantly more likely to have seropositive dogs than facilities in more geographically separated counties (P = 0.01). In addition, stray dogs were significantly more likely to be antibody‐positive than relinquished animals (P = 0.01), suggesting that control of stray dog populations should be considered as a means of limiting SFGR transmission in this region. The findings from this study may be extrapolated to suggest that the current risk for human RMSF infection may extend beyond the noted outbreak area. Heightened surveillance for human disease is needed in the region.
Oral Administration of β-1,3/1,6-Glucan to Dogs Temporally Changes Total and Antigen-Specific IgA and IgM
Authors: Stuyven E. , Verdonck F. , Van Hoek I. , Daminet S. , Duchateau L. , Remon J. P. , Goddeeris B. M. , Cox E.
Published: December 2009

The effect of oral administration of β-1,3/1,6-glucans from
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
on humoral immunity in domestic dogs is not known. In this study, 15 beagle dogs were orally given MacroGard tablets, which contain 150 mg of this β-glucan, daily for 4 weeks. At the end of this period, the total serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) level decreased significantly in the group treated with the glucan compared to that in the control group as well as compared to the concentrations before supplementation. In contrast, the total serum IgM level rose significantly, whereas no effect on the IgG level occurred. Similar changes were seen in
Bordetella
-specific IgA and IgM titers following vaccination during the supplementation period. The IgA concentration also became significantly lower in the saliva and tears of the glucan group than in the placebo group. The effects disappeared 1 week after the cessation of the supplementation. In conclusion, the results showed a temporary change in the isotype profile during glucan supplementation.
Identification of a Variety of
Staphylococcus
Species by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Dubois Damien , Leyssene David , Chacornac Jean Paul , Kostrzewa Markus , Schmit Pierre Olivier , Talon Régine , Bonnet Richard , Delmas Julien
Published: December 2009

Whole-cell fingerprinting by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) in combination with a dedicated bioinformatic software tool (MALDI Biotyper 2.0) was used to identify 152 staphylococcal strains corresponding to 22 staphylococcal species. Spectra of the 152 isolates, previously identified at the species level using a
sodA
gene-based oligonucleotide array, were analyzed against the main spectra of 3,030 microorganisms. A total of 151 strains out of 152 (99.3%) were correctly identified at the species level; only one strain was identified at the genus level. The MALDI-TOF MS method revealed different clonal lineages of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
that were of either human or environmental origin, which suggests that the MALDI-TOF MS method could be useful in the profiling of staphylococcal strains. The topology of the dendrogram generated by the MALDI Biotyper 2.0 software from the spectra of 120
Staphylococcus
reference strains (representing 36 species) was in general agreement with that inferred from the 16S rRNA gene-based analysis. Our findings indicate that the MALDI-TOF MS technology, associated with a broad-spectrum reference database, is an effective tool for the swift and reliable identification of
Staphylococci
.
MHD flow and heat transfer in a non-Newtonian liquid film over an unsteady stretching sheet with variable fluid properties
Authors: Mahmoud Mostafa A.A. , Megahed Ahmed M.
Published: December 2009

The present paper is concerned with the study of variable viscosity and variable thermal conductivity on the flow and heat transfer of an electrically conducting non-Newtonian power-law fluid within a thin liquid film over an unsteady stretching sheet in the presence of a transverse magnetic field. The transformed system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations describing the problem is solved numerically. The effects of various parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles are shown through graphs and discussed. The values of the local skin-friction coefficient and the local Nusselt number for different values of physical parameters are presented through tables.
A model for the pioneer anomaly
Authors: Avramidi Ivan G. , Fucci Guglielmo
Published: December 2009

In a previous work, we showed that massive test particles exhibit a nongeodesic acceleration in a modified theory of gravity obtained by a noncommutative deformation of General Relativity (so-called Matrix Gravity). We propose that this nongeodesic acceleration might be the origin of the anomalous acceleration experienced by the Pioneer 10 and Pioneer 11 spacecrafts.
Asymmetric Mach–Zehnder fiber interferometer test of the anisotropy of the speed of light
Authors: de Haan Victor
Published: December 2009

Two optical fiber Mach–Zehnder interferometers were constructed in an environment with a temperature stabilization of better than 1 mK per day. One interferometer with a length of 2 m optical fiber in each arm with the main direction of the arms parallel to each other. A path (length 175 mm) filled with atmospheric air is inserted in one arm. Another interferometer with a length of 2 m optical fiber in each parallel arm acts as a control. In one of the arms in each interferometer, 1 m of fiber was wound around a ring made of piezo material enabling the control of the length of the arms by means of a voltage. The influence of rotation of the interferometers at the Earth's surface on the observed phase differences was determined. For one interferometer (with the air path) it was found that the phase difference depends on the azimuth of the interferometer. For the other one no relevant dependence on the azimuth has been measured.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NANO-SIZED Zn POWDER BY ELECTRICAL EXPLOSION OF WIRE IN LIQUID
Authors: GOO W. H. , BAC L. H. , PARK E. J. , KIM J. S. , KIM J. C. , JUNG H. S. , LEE H. D.
Published: December 2009

Zn powder has been used for many years as anticorrosive pigments in various paints. In this work, the nano-sized Zn powder was synthesized by wire explosion method in deionised water and ethanol. The morphology of the prepared powders was observed by field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and the oxidation of the powders was determined using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The size of particles was estimated from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and FE-SEM. Dispersion properties of the as-prepared Zn nanoparticles in ethanol were evaluated by Turbiscan lab device. It is found that Zn nanoparticle prepared in ethanol had spherical shape with average particles size ~150 nm while the one prepared in water had a mixture of hexagonal and spherical shape. Ethanol can reduce the oxidation of Zn nanoparticles in comparison with water. Stability of Zn nanoparticles dispersed in ethanol exhibited the agglomeration in the dispersion.
Overexpression of NGF in mouse urothelium leads to neuronal hyperinnervation, pelvic sensitivity, and changes in urinary bladder function
Authors: Schnegelsberg Birthe , Sun Tung-Tien , Cain Gary , Bhattacharya Anindya , Nunn Philip A. , Ford Anthony P. D. W. , Vizzard Margaret A. , Cockayne Debra A.
Published: December 2009

NGF has been suggested to play a role in urinary bladder dysfunction by mediating inflammation, as well as morphological and functional changes, in sensory and sympathetic neurons innervating the urinary bladder. To further explore the role of NGF in bladder sensory function, we generated a transgenic mouse model of chronic NGF overexpression in the bladder using the urothelium-specific uroplakin II (UPII) promoter. NGF mRNA and protein were expressed at higher levels in the bladders of NGF-overexpressing (NGF-OE) transgenic mice compared with wild-type littermate controls from postnatal day 7 through 12–16 wk of age. Overexpression of NGF led to urinary bladder enlargement characterized by marked nerve fiber hyperplasia in the submucosa and detrusor smooth muscle and elevated numbers of tissue mast cells. There was a marked increase in the density of CGRP- and substance P-positive C-fiber sensory afferents, neurofilament 200-positive myelinated sensory afferents, and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive sympathetic nerve fibers in the suburothelial nerve plexus. CGRP-positive ganglia were also present in the urinary bladders of transgenic mice. Transgenic mice had reduced urinary bladder capacity and an increase in the number and amplitude of nonvoiding bladder contractions under baseline conditions in conscious open-voiding cystometry. These changes in urinary bladder function were further associated with an increased referred somatic pelvic hypersensitivity. Thus, chronic urothelial NGF overexpression in transgenic mice leads to neuronal proliferation, focal increases in urinary bladder mast cells, increased urinary bladder reflex activity, and pelvic hypersensitivity. NGF-overexpressing mice may, therefore, provide a useful transgenic model for exploring the role of NGF in urinary bladder dysfunction.
Contraction-by-contraction V̇o2 and computer-controlled pump perfusion as novel techniques to study skeletal muscle metabolism in situ
Authors: Hernández Andrés , Goodwin Matthew L. , Lai Nicola , Cabrera Marco E. , McDonald James R. , Gladden L. Bruce
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this research was to develop new techniques to 1) rapidly sample venous O2 saturation to determine contraction-by-contraction oxygen uptake (V̇o2), and 2) precisely control the rate and pattern of blood flow adjustment from one chosen steady state to another. An indwelling inline oximeter probe connected to an Oximetrix 3 meter was used to sample venous oxygen concentration ([O2]) (via fractional saturation of Hb with O2). Data from the Oximetrix 3 were filtered, deconvolved, and processed by a moving average second by second. Computer software and a program written in-house were used to control blood flow with a peristaltic pump. The isolated canine gastrocnemius muscle complex (GS) in situ was utilized to test these techniques. A step change in metabolic rate was elicited by stimulating GS muscles via their sciatic nerves (supramaximal voltage, 8 V; 50 Hz, 0.2-ms pulse width; train duration 200 ms) at a rate of either 1 contraction/2 s, or 2 contractions/3 s. With arterial [O2] maintained constant, blood flow and calculated venous [O2] were averaged over each contraction cycle and used in the Fick equation to calculate contraction-by-contraction V̇o2. About 5–8 times more data points were obtained with this method compared with traditional manual sampling. Software-controlled pump perfusion enabled the ability to mimic spontaneous blood flow on-kinetics (τ: 14.3 s) as well as dramatically speed (τ: 2.0 s) and slow (τ: 63.3 s) on-kinetics. These new techniques significantly improve on existing methods for mechanistically altering blood flow kinetics as well as accurately measuring muscle oxygen consumption kinetics during transitions between metabolic rates.
Frequency-Specific Modulation of Vestibular-Evoked Sway Responses in Humans
Authors: Dakin Christopher J. , Luu Billy L. , van den Doel Kees , Inglis John Timothy , Blouin Jean-Sébastien
Published: December 2009

Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) results in characteristic muscle and whole-body responses in humans maintaining standing balance. However, the relationship between these two vestibular-evoked responses remains elusive. This study seeks to determine whether mechanical filtering from conversion of lower-limb muscle activity to body sway, during standing balance, can be used to attenuate sway while maintaining biphasic lower-limb muscle responses using frequency-limited stochastic vestibular stimulation (SVS). We hypothesized that SVS deprived of frequencies <2 Hz would evoke biphasic muscle responses with minimal whole-body sway due to mechanical filtering of the higher-frequency muscle responses. Subjects were exposed to five stimulus bandwidths: two meant to induce sway responses (0–1 and 0–2 Hz) and three to dissociate vestibular-evoked muscle responses from whole-body sway (0–25, 1–25, and 2–25 Hz). Two main results emerged: 1) SVS-related sway was attenuated when frequencies <2 Hz were excluded, whereas multiphasic muscle and force responses were retained; and 2) the gain of the estimated transfer functions exhibited successive low-pass filtering of vestibular stimuli during conversion to muscle activity, anteroposterior (AP) moment, and sway. This successive low-pass filtering limited the transfer of signal power to frequencies <20 Hz in muscle activity, <5 Hz in AP moment, and <2 Hz in AP trunk sway. Consequently, the present results show that SVS delivered at frequencies >2 Hz to standing humans do not cause a destabilizing whole-body sway response but are associated with the typical biphasic lower-limb muscle responses.
The Long-Term Results of Frontalis Suspension Using Autogenous Fascia Lata in Children with Congenital Ptosis under 3 Years Old
Authors: Bilgin Lale Kozer , Yeniad Baris
Published: December 2009

Purpose. To describe the long-term results of frontalis suspension using autogenous fascia lata in children with congenital ptosis under 3 years old.Methods. Forty three-eyes of 35 patients were enrolled in the study. Frontalis suspension using autogenous fascia lata was performed in all patients. The postoperative eyelid level, ptosis recurrence, visual acuity, and cosmetic results were evaluated.Results. The mean age of the patients was months (7–36 months). The mean follow-up time was months (14–95 months). All patients had good (ptosis  mm) or moderate (2-3 mm ptosis) eyelid level after the operation. All patients achieved satisfactory cosmetic results. Succesfull harvesting was performed in all cases and no additional materials or surgical manipulation were needed during the surgery.Conclusion. Frontalis suspension using autogenous fascia lata can be used in children under 3 years old without harvesting problems. Surgical experience and good knowledge of anatomy are important factors for successful results after the surgery.
Acute Tetraventricular Hydrocephalus Caused by Mumps Meningoencephalitis in a Child
Authors: Aydemir Cumhur , Eldes Nilufer , Kolsal Ebru , Ustundag Gonca , Gul Sanser , Erdem Zuhal
Published: December 2009

Mumps is one of the common causes of childhood aseptic meningitis and encephalitis. Although central nervous system involvement is a common manifestation, hydrocephalus is a very rare complication of mumps, with just a few cases reported in the literature to date. Here we report on an 8-year-old boy with acute tetraventricular hydrocephalus caused by mumps meningoencephalitis and treated by external ventricular drainage and following ventriculoperitoneal shunt.
Treatment of Endometriosis with Transvaginal Ultrasound-Guided Drainage and Recombinant Interleukin-2 Left in the Cysts: A Third Clinical Trial
Authors: Acién Pedro , Velasco Irene , Acién Maribel , Quereda Francisco
Published: December 2009

Background: To analyze the therapeutic results of recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) left in the cysts after transvaginal ultrasound (US)-guided drainage of endometriomas as an alternative to surgery. Methods: Prospective and randomized clinical trial. A total of 25 consecutive patients were included. Two transvaginal US-guided punctures were performed, and 3 million IU of rIL-2 were left in the aspirated cysts once (group I) or both (group II) times according to randomization. Main Outcome Measures: Clinical results, prevented surgeries, and recurrences. Results: Results were moderate or good in only 16% of subjects at 3 months and in 33% of subjects at 6 months after treatment in group I; these numbers were 66 and 33%, respectively, in group II. Differences were not statistically significant. However, the evolution of symptoms, endometriomas, and CA-125 revealed the low efficacy of rIL-2 left intracyst as well as a poor control of the clinical manifestations. After 1 year, 20% (group I) and 73% (group II) of patients had to be operated; after 2 years, these numbers were 55 and 82%, respectively. Conclusions: Treatment of endometriomas with transvaginal US-guided drainage and rIL-2 left in the cysts, without using endometrial suppressive therapy with GnRH analogues as done in previous studies, has low efficacy. Recurrences are even more frequent after the use of two rIL-2 doses.
Intralesional Pingyangmycin Treatment for Resistant Plantar Warts
Authors: Yang Fan , Qin Xiaolei , Cheng Zhiying , Xie Shaofang
Published: December 2009

Background: The diagnosis of viral warts is often straightforward, but their treatment is difficult and always takes a long time. Nowadays warts are usually treated with conventional methods including topical keratolytic agents, cryotherapy, electrosurgery and laser surgery. However, such treatments cause different complications, and the warts become recalcitrant. Objective: To investigate the effect of intralesional pingyangmycin injection for resistant plantar warts. Methods: From June 2006 to September 2008, we treated 66 patients with plantar warts by intralesional pingyangmycin injection after informed consent. Results: The lesions of 58 patients cleared (87.88%) after up to 4 treatments. The remaining 8 patients (12.12%) achieved partial clearance. No serious side effects were observed. Conclusion: Intralesional injection of pingyangmycin might be an effective, safe and generally well-tolerated treatment for plantar warts.
Cerebral and Systemic Hemodynamic Effects of Intravenous Bolus Administration of Propofol in Neonates
Authors: Vanderhaegen Joke , Naulaers Gunnar , Van Huffel Sabine , Vanhole Christine , Allegaert Karel
Published: December 2009

Objectives: To assess variability of systemic hemodynamics and its covariates following bolus propofol administration in (pre)term neonates, and to analyze the effect of propofol on cerebral tissue oxygenation index (TOI) and fractional tissue oxygen extraction measured by near-infrared spectroscopy. Methods: In (pre)term neonates, we recorded mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), saturation (SaO2), heart rate (HR) and TOI from 5 min before up to 60 min after intravenous bolus propofol (3 mg kg–1) administration during elective chest tube removal. Covariate analysis included postmenstrual age (PMA ≤ or >37 weeks), postnatal age (PNA ≤ or >10 days), comedication (fentanyl +/– midazolam) and congenital cardiopathy (yes/no). Fractional tissue oxygen extraction was calculated as (SaO2 – TOI)/SaO2. Results: Twenty recordings in 19 neonates were assessed. Following propofol administration, an abrupt, minor decrease in HR and SaO2 was seen with fast recovery, while MABP decreased up to 1 h. TOI decreased during the first 3 min, reflecting an imbalance between cerebral oxygen delivery and demand. Despite sustained decrease in MABP, TOI then returned to baseline, suggesting a better balance between oxygen delivery and demand. PNA ≤10 days, comedication and absence of cardiopathy were associated with more subtle decreases in cerebral oxygenation and faster recovery. Conclusions: Propofol-induced decrease in HR, SaO2 and cerebral oxygenation is short lasting while a decrease in MABP is observed up to 60 min. The variability in the effects of propofol is influenced by PNA, comedication or cardiopathy. Near-infrared spectroscopy can be used to assess hemodynamic effects of hypnotics on the cerebral oxygenation.
Testing an Integrative Model of Respect: Implications for Social Engagement and Well-Being
Authors: Huo Yuen J. , Binning Kevin R. , Molina Ludwin E.
Published: December 2009

Prior research demonstrates that feelings of respect affect important aspects of group functioning and members’ psychological well-being. One limitation is that respect has been variously defined as reflecting individuals’ status in the group, degree to which they are liked by the group, and how fairly they are treated in interactions with group members. These different conceptions are integrated in the dual pathway model of respect. The authors tested the model’s prediction that fair treatment from group members shapes attitudes toward the group and self via two distinct pathways: status and inclusion. Findings from a field study supported the model and yielded new insights: Whereas perceptions of status predicted social engagement, liking was more important in predicting well-being (especially among dominant subgroups). Discussion focuses on the utility of the dual pathway model for understanding how respect perceptions are formed and how they affect the welfare of groups and individuals.
The Common Topoi of STEM Discourse: An Apologia and Methodological Proposal, With Pilot Survey
Authors: Walsh Lynda
Published: December 2009

In this article, the author proposes a methodology for the rhetorical analysis of scientific, technical, mathematical, and engineering (STEM) discourse based on the common topics (topoi) of this discourse. Beginning with work by Miller, Prelli, and other rhetoricians of STEM discourse—but factoring in related studies in cognitive linguistics—she argues for a reimagining of topoi as basic schema that interrelate texts, objects, and writers in STEM communities. Then, she proposes a topical method as a stable, broadly applicable heuristic that may help fit the rhetorical dynamics of the much-studied research article (RA) into the wider context of written technical discourse—exactly the type of improvement that Gross, Fahnestock, and others have proposed. Finally, as an illustration of this argument, the author performs a pilot topical survey of 18 RAs representing six STEM disciplines. This survey yields a set of 30 topoi used samplewide that can form a starting point for future surveys. She answers challenges to the significance and relevance of a topical method and finishes by sketching some future applications of the method that can move rhetoric of science beyond the RA.
The Role of Doxycycline as a Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor for the Treatment of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Stechmiller Joyce , Cowan Linda , Schultz Gregory
Published: December 2009

Many chronic wounds fail to heal with conventional therapy, resulting in disability and impaired quality of life. New technologies using recombinant growth factors, autologous growth factors, or bioengineered skin—tissue substitutes have been shown to be effective, but these treatments are costly. An effective, low-cost treatment to improve healing of chronic wounds is needed. The molecular environment of chronic wounds, like many other chronic inflammatory diseases, contains abnormally high levels of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α and interleukin [IL]-1β]) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which impair normal wound healing. In animal models and clinical studies of ulcerative diseases, doxycycline, an inexpensive and Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antibiotic, appears to inhibit members of the MMP superfamily like MMPs and TNF-α-converting enzyme (TACE). This article provides an overview of the roles of MMPs and intrinsic tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in wound healing and the damaging effects of chronically elevated levels of MMPSs in chronic wounds. It also explores the use of topical doxycycline, a synthetic MMP inhibitor (MMPI), to enhance healing of chronic wounds.
Lack of Exercise Decreases Survival and Increases Organ Damage After Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats
Authors: Lee Chung J. , Peng Tai C. , Hsu Bang G. , Harn Horng J. , Chao Yann F. C. , Lee Ru P.
Published: December 2009

Inflammatory response secondary to hemorrhagic shock (HS) frequently precedes multiple organ failure and death in trauma patients. Researchers have recognized that exercise benefits immune function. However, the effects of exercise on HSinduced death and organ damage are unknown. In this study, the authors aimed to explore the effects of exercise on survival rate and organ injury after HS. Rats were divided into exercise and nonexercise groups. The exercise group received running training 30 min/day five times/week for 4 weeks. After 4 weeks, researchers withdrew 60% of total blood volume in both groups to mimic HS. Levels of blood aspartate transferase (GOT), alanine transferase (GPT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase—myoglobin (CK-MB), blood glucose, and lactate were measured. The survival rate and injury scores for the liver, kidney, and lung were examined 48 hr after HS. Physical activity was measured in surviving rats from the 3rd to the 7th day after HS. Exercise training significantly increased the survival rate (75% for the exercise group vs. 50% for the nonexercise group) after HS and decreased organ injury. In addition, the exercise group was more active than the nonexercise group after HS.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Persons With Psychotic Disorders
Authors: Marcello Stephanie C. , Hilton-Lerro Katie , Mueser Kim T.
Published: December 2009

The prevalence of trauma in people with a serious mental illness (SMI) is high and poses a significant health problem. In addition, trauma exposure often leads to the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People with comorbid PTSD and a SMI have significantly poorer treatment outcomes. Despite the high occurrence of these two disorders, people with a SMI are often excluded from research on PTSD. To address this gap, Mueser, Rosenberg, and Rosenberg developed a cognitive restructuring (CR) program. This article describes a case study utilizing the CR program. The program is specifically tailored for people with psychotic and mood disorders with a focus on modifying dysfunctional beliefs and behaviors. Results suggest that addressing PTSD in people with a SMI is necessary and that the CR program can promote recovery in this population.
Cholecystectomy by Single Trocar Access (SITRACC): The First Multicenter Study
Authors: de Campos Martins Marcus Vinicius Dantas , Skinovsky James , Coelho Djalma Ernesto , Ramos Almino , Galvão Neto Manoel P. , Rodrigues José , de Carli Luiz , Totti Cavazolla Leandro , Campos Josemberg , Thuller Fábio , Brunetti Adriano
Published: December 2009

Background: The advent of endoscopic surgery has radically changed surgery worldwide.The concept of minimally invasive procedures has spread quickly, allowing less pain and more rapid recovery for patients. The authors have developed a device for a new surgical approach, the so-called single trocar access (SITRACC). This study report the first multicenter study of cholecystectomies performed with SITRACC. Methods: Between December 2008 and June 2009, 81 single trocar cholecystectomies were performed in 9 Brazilian surgery centers. Results: The average operative time was 68 minutes. In all, 10 surgeries required 1 additional trocar because of technical problems, and 3 cholecystectomies were converted to standard video laparoscopies. Conclusion: A cholecystectomy using the SITRACC method is feasible and safe.
The Burden of Care of Gay Male Carers Caring for Men Living With HIV/AIDS
Authors: Munro Ian , Edward Karen-Leigh
Published: December 2009

Objective: The notion of caregiver ‘burden’ has been used as a term that refers to the financial, physical and emotional effects of caring. This Australian 2002 research investigated the caregiver burden of HIV/AIDS on the gay male carers of gay men with the disease. Methods: This study was a phenomenological inquiry and employed van Manen’s approach to content analysis. Data saturation occurred at twelve participants. Results: The findings produced carer themes relating to coping with the burden of care of a person living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in the context of living day-to-day with HIV/AIDS, coping with the last phase of AIDS toward death, saying goodbye and remembrance. Conclusion: Allocating resources to gay male carers such as; education, respite care, family therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address grief and stigma issues, has implications for how health services might reduce the burden of care for these carers.
The use of inhaled corticosteroid in preschool wheezers: what's the point today?
Authors: Tenero Laura , Paiola Giulia , Coghi Alessandra , Piacentini Giorgio L
Published: December 2009

Among the preschool children who wheeze two different groups can be identify: children who have a viral infection and those who respond to multiple triggers, such as exercise or allergens.

To distinguish between these different phenotypes of wheezing, and consequently choose therapy represents a major challenge for pediatricians.

Transient wheezers conditions do not improve with maintenance treatment with ICS. On the other hand they are definitely useful in children with wheeze/asthma.

Increasing evidence is in favor of the potential role of leukotriene receptor antagonists in preschool children with recurrent wheezing.

Oral steroid has been demonstrated not to be indicated to control acute wheezing, unless severe disease is expected in non-atopic children.

The early phenotyping of preschool wheezers, upon which the appropriate treatment should be based, represents a challenging issue in the paediatric practice.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 and the Insulin Receptor, But Not Insulin, Regulate Fetal Hepatic Glycogen Synthesis
Authors: Liang Li , Guo Wei Hui , Esquiliano Diego R. , Asai Masato , Rodriguez Susana , Giraud Jodel , Kushner Jake A. , White Morris F. , Lopez Mary Frances
Published: December 2009

Whether insulin or IGFs regulate glycogen synthesis in the fetal liver remains to be determined. In this study, we used several knockout mouse strains, including those lacking Pdx-1 (pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1), Insr (insulin receptor), and Igf2 (IGF-II) to determine the role of these genes in the regulation of fetal hepatic glycogen synthesis. Our data show that insulin deficiency does not alter hepatic glycogen stores, whereas Insr and Igf2 deficiency do. We found that both insulin receptor isoforms (IR-A and IR-B) are present in the fetal liver, and their expression is gestationally regulated. IR-B is highly expressed in the fetal liver; nonetheless, the percentage of hepatic IR-A isoform, which binds Igf2, was significantly higher in the fetus than the adult. In vitro experiments demonstrate that Igf2 increases phosphorylation of hepatic Insr, insulin receptor substrate-2, and Akt proteins and also the activity of glycogen synthase. Igf2 ultimately increased glycogen synthesis in fetal hepatocytes. This increase could be blocked by the phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor LY294008. Taken together, we propose Igf2 as a major regulator of fetal hepatic glycogen metabolism, the insulin receptor as its target receptor, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase as the signaling pathway leading to glycogen formation in the fetal liver.
Minireview: Delivering the Code: Polyplex Carriers for Deoxyribonucleic Acid and Ribonucleic Acid Interference Therapies
Authors: Christie R. James , Nishiyama N. , Kataoka K.
Published: December 2009

Nucleic acid-based therapies offer great potential for treatment of a variety of diseases including cancer by modulating protein expression with DNA or small interfering RNA. However, realization of their full therapeutic potential is currently limited due to an inability to reach the target site in an active form. Identification of delivery barriers such as stability in circulation, resistance to degradation and entrapment in subcellular vesicles has led to development of sophisticated multifunctional synthetic polymers for forming ionic complexes with nucleic acids and also providing performance-enhancing features. The most promising designs comprise features to help increase stability in circulation and also contain functionality to aid in endosome escape of nucleic acid cargo after cellular internalization.
Asymptotic Stability of Stochastic Differential Equations Driven by Lévy Noise
Authors: Applebaum David , Siakalli Michailina
Published: December 2009

Using key tools such as Itô's formula for general semimartingales, Kunita's moment estimates for Lévy-type stochastic integrals, and the exponential martingale inequality, we find conditions under which the solutions to the stochastic differential equations (SDEs) driven by Lévy noise are stable in probability, almost surely and moment exponentially stable.
Photoelectrochemical properties of n-type KTaO3single crystals in alkaline electrolytes
Authors: Paulauskas Irene E. , Jellison Gerald E. , Boatner Lynn A.
Published: December 2009

Semiconducting KTaO3single crystals were investigated as a model potential photoanode for hydrogen production using photoelectrochemical cells. To modify the electronic properties of KTaO3by reducing the band gap and thereby increasing the absorption of light at longer wavelengths, the crystals were doped during growth. A wide range of dopant elements was used that consisted primarily of transition metal atoms. Most of the crystals exhibited n-type behavior with carrier concentrations from 4 × 1018to 2.6 × 1020cm–3. The position of the band edges indicated that the crystals were thermodynamically capable of water dissociation. External quantum yield measurements revealed that the samples were photoactive up to a wavelength of ∼350 nm. The indirect band gap and a parameter denoted asE1that is related to the direct band edge of the semiconductor, were found to be essentially the same for all of the samples. These results indicate that the various dopants and treatments did not produce changes in the KTaO3electronic structure that were sufficient to significantly modify the behavior of KTaO3in a PEC cell.
Nucleobindin-2/nesfatin in the endocrine pancreas: distribution and relationship to glycaemic state
Authors: Foo Kylie S , Brauner Hanna , Östenson Claes-Göran , Broberger Christian
Published: December 2009

The protein nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2, also known as nesfatin) was recently implicated as a mediator of anorexia and catabolism in the central nervous system, and has been suggested to act as a cleaved and secreted messenger. Given the overlap of signalling molecules between the brain and pancreas, we have explored the presence of NUCB2 in the islets of Langerhans. We also performed an investigation of the dynamic regulation of pancreatic NUCB2 in different metabolic states. NUCB2-like immunoreactivity was detected by immunofluorescence in all human and rat islet β-cells (as detected by co-localization with insulin), but not in other islet cells or in the exocrine pancreas. Islet NUCB2 content, as measured by enzyme immunoassay, did not change significantly following an overnight fast, but was substantially lower in islets isolated from an animal model of type 2 diabetes, the Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats (48% of non-diabetic Wistar rat control). Serum levels, however, were not different between Wistar and GK rats. The release of NUCB2 from isolated rat islets was significantly elevated following glucose challenge (123%), but this effect was substantially lower than that observed for insulin (816%). In contrast, serum levels of NUCB2 showed a reversible decrease in an i.p. glucose tolerance test. These data suggest a role for NUCB2 in β-cell function and a potential involvement in diabetic pathology. However, our findings, together with previous reports, appear more compatible with intracellular actions rather than with endocrine/paracrine communication, and suggest that NUCB2 in serum derives primarily from non-islet sources.
INTRODUCTION.
Authors: IRWIN E
Published: December 2009

Welcome to this special issue of Civil Engineering, the generaL journal of Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers. It is the second of two special issues which provide an overview of the planning, design and construction of Hong Kong's new international airport at Chek Lap Kok and its associated road and rail links. The airport opened on 6 July this year following successful completion of a £12 billion construction programme.
Determination of tensile membrane effects by segment equilibrium
Authors: Dong Y.-L. , Fang Y.-Y.
Published: December 2009

This paper presents a segment equilibrium method to determine the tensile membrane effects of concrete slabs at large displacements. This model considers the tensile membrane action that is provided by the vertical component of reinforcement tensile forces after the formation of the mechanism of the plastic hinge line. The model can predict the tensile membrane effects of both rectangular and square concrete slabs with orthotropic and isotropic reinforcement, and can interpret why for similar reinforcement the square slabs always fail at a lower vertical displacement compared with the rectangular slabs, and the reason of fracture of reinforcement along the short span. Comparison between the developed model and test results shows good correlation.
A study on the performance of lightweight self-consolidated concrete
Authors: Abdelaziz G.E.
Published: December 2009

This paper presents a study on the fresh and hardened characteristics of lightweight aggregate concrete incorporating self-compacting agent (LWSCC). Self-compacting agent (SCA) (a polycarboxylic-based superplasticiser in combination with a viscosity-modifying admixture) and locally produced lightweight aggregate (LWA) produced from expanded clay type were utilised. Various LWSCC mixes made with different mix proportions, namely dosage of self-compacting agent, water/cement ratio, LWA/sand ratio and normal-weight aggregate as a partial replacement of LWA, were prepared. The initial slump flow, rate of slump flow loss and air content were then performed to assess the fresh properties of LWSCC. Twenty-eight-day compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, porosity and density were determined for investigating the hardened properties of LWSCC. The results reveal that, by using locally produced materials, it is possible to manufacture a structural LWA concrete with low density and high self-consolidating characteristics (flowability, deformability and stability). Both fresh and hardened characteristics of LWSCC are mainly controlled by dosage of an SCA, where the flowability, self-compactability, strength, homogeneity and porosity of LWSCC can be enhanced with increasing SCA content up to certain dosage of SCA (≈0·80), at which all these characteristics would start to decline with increasing SCA content. However, LWSCC loses its fresh parameters rapidly with increasing the dosage of SCA and lightweight aggregate/sand ratio. The results also showed that the compressive strength, homogeneity and porosity of LWSCC could be significantly improved by reducing the ratio of w/c and LWA/sand ratio, and utilising normal-weight aggregate in LWSCC mixes.
Experimental research on plastic design method and moment redistribution in continuous concrete beams prestressed with unbonded tendons
Authors: Zhou W. , Zheng W.Z.
Published: December 2009

Determining normal ultimate load-bearing capacity is important in the design of concrete continuous beams that are prestressed with unbonded tendons. Tests on continuous unbonded prestressed concrete beams show that bending moment redistribution can occur. However, the analysis approach is far from sufficient to quantify the amount of moment redistribution to this type of beam. In this paper, an analysis approach to quantify the amount of moment redistribution is described and the concept of negative moment redistribution is introduced. Moment redistribution of two-span continuous unbonded prestressed concrete beams takes place when concrete cracking develops in the rotation of plastic hinge angle, and reaches its maximum at failure of beams. Moment considering redistribution used to calculate the ultimate load-bearing capacity at the section over the inner support is the algebraic sum of the secondary moment due to prestressing and the moment due to external loads. Two formulae of the degree of moment redistribution are proposed based on test results.
Metallic Implants for Spinal Deformity Correction
Authors: Wai-Kwok Yeung Kelvin , MC Cheung Kenneth , Dip-Kei Luk Keith , Chung Chi Yuan
Published: December 2009

Patients with severe spinal lateral deformity will consider for surgical intervention due to
cardiopulmonary and cosmetic compromise. However, the current operation making use of
conventional metals can only achieve 60-70% correction due to the spinal viscoelastic
properties. Hence, spinal implants making use of the shape memory effect of nickel titanium shape
memory alloy have been developed to overcome these problems. Nevertheless, the surgical outcome
did not significantly differ with the conventional implants. The invention new spinal system is still
needed in order to achieve better spinal deformity correction.
Strontium Containing Bioactive Bone Cement for Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Li Zhaoyang , Dip-Kei Luk Keith , Weijia Lu William
Published: December 2009

Strontium (Sr) and related compounds have become more attractive in the prevention and
treatment of osteoporosis. Previously, we developed a novel bioactive bone cement, which mainly
composed of strontium-containing hydroxyapatite (Sr-HA) filler and bisphenol A diglycidylether
dimethacrylate (Bis-GMA) resin. This bone cement is superior to conventional
polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement in bioactivity, biocompatibility, and osseointegration.
It also has shown sufficient mechanical strength properties for its use in percutaneous vertebroplasty
(PVP) and total hip replacement (THR). In this chapter, we reviewed the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical
evidence for the effectiveness of this bioactive bone cement.
The Effect of Municipal Wastewater Effluent on Nitrogen Levels in Onondaga Lake, a 36‐Year Record
Authors: Effler Steven W. , O'Donnell Susan M. , Prestigiacomo Anthony R. , O'Donnell David M. , Gelda Rakesh K. , Matthews David A.
Published: December 2009

This work presents a retrospective analysis of long‐term trends in loading of forms of nitrogen (N) from the Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant (Metro), N concentrations in the receiving urban lake (Onondaga Lake, New York), and related water quality status for the period from 1972 to 2007. The history of the evolution of treatment and discharge at Metro, as it affected N loading, is reviewed and forms the basis for identification of five regimes during which unifying conditions of loading and in‐lake conditions prevailed. Changes in industrial waste inputs have complicated the effects of upgrades in treatment at Metro from primary (until 1978) to advanced (starting in 2004). Current N loading from Metro is approximately 35% lower than the peak levels observed in the late 1980s to late 1990s, but the areal rate to the lake remains extremely high (approximately 97 g/m2·y), representing approximately 75% of the overall N load. Implementation of year‐round nitrification treatment has resulted in transformation of the composition of the N load from Metro from ammonia (T‐NH3) to nitrate (NO3−) dominance. High N concentrations have prevailed in the upper waters of the lake throughout the study period with averages of total N ranging from 2.6 to 4.3 mg/L for the five regimes. Total N levels and partitioning among the forms in the lake generally have tracked Metro loading conditions for the five regimes. The effects of Metro loading on seasonal in‐lake patterns are demonstrated to be modified by both hydrologic inputs from tributaries and in‐lake operation of biochemical processes. Resolution of these effects is supported by application of both empirical and dynamic mass balance models. Water quality problems related to high concentrations of forms of N are documented, including (1) augmentation of dissolved oxygen depletion during fall mixing from in‐lake nitrification events, enabled by high T‐NH3 levels; (2) violations of ammonia toxicity limits; and (3) violations of nitrite toxicity standards. These problems were either greatly ameliorated or eliminated by Metro's most recent treatment upgrades. Prevailing conditions are considered in a management context, including (1) likelihood of exceedances of toxicity limits in the future and (2) potential role of elevated nitrate levels in preventing mobilization of methyl mercury from the lake's sediments.
Estimates of Insulin Sensitivity Using Glucose and C-Peptide From the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Glucose Tolerance Test
Authors: Radaelli Tatjana , Farrell Kristen Anne , Huston-Presley Larraine , Amini Saeid Baradaran , Kirwan John Patrick , McIntyre Harold David , Catalano Patrick Michael
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To determine if glucose and C-peptide values obtained as part of the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome (HAPO) study could be used to estimate insulin sensitivity during late pregnancy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 78 women enrolled in the HAPO study were recruited for this ancillary study. Venous plasma samples were drawn after an 8- to 10-h fast (time 0) and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after a 75-g glucose challenge, which was performed at 24–32 weeks' gestation. Samples were analyzed for plasma glucose, insulin, and C-peptide. Insulin sensitivity was estimated using the established Matsuda and DeFronzo insulin sensitivity index for oral glucose tolerance tests (ISOGTT). Insulin sensitivity was also calculated from two other commonly used indexes of insulin sensitivity (that for homeostasis model assessment [ISHOMA] and that for quantitative insulin sensitivity check index [ISQUICKI]). A new insulin sensitivity index was calculated using the glucose and C-peptide concentrations at 0 and 60 min to derive ISHOMA C-pep, ISQUICKI C-pep, and ISOGTT C-pep. These indexes were then correlated with insulin sensitivity estimated from the ISOGTT.

RESULTS

The strongest correlation with the ISOGTT was obtained for ISOGTT C-pep (r = 0.792, P < 0.001). Further, the correlations of ISHOMA C-pep and ISQUICKI C-pep with ISOGTT were also significant (r = 0.676, P < 0.001 and r = 0.707, P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that calculated ISOGTT C-pep is an excellent predictor of insulin sensitivity in pregnancy and can be used to estimate insulin sensitivity in over 25,000 women participating in the HAPO study.
The reactions of B-norsteroidal 4- and 5-enes
Authors: Uyanik Cavit , Hanson James R.
Published: December 2009

Aspects of the stereochemistry of addition reactions to B-norsteroidal 4- and 5-alkenes are compared to the corresponding reactions in normal 6:6 A/B series.
An efficient synthesis of 7-methoxy-8-methyl-α-tetralone
Authors: Poon Po S. , Banerjee Ajoy K.
Published: December 2009

The commercially available 7-methoxy-α-tetralone was subjected to bromination, reduction and protection respectively to obtain the tert-butyldimethylsilyl derivative compound whose conversion into the title compound tetralone was accomplished in three steps (methylation, deprotection and oxidation).