bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE APPLICATION OF THE COVARIANCE METHOD ANALYSING THE DIGITAL IMAGES OF LAND SURFACE / ŽEMĖS DANGOS POKYČIŲ NUSTATYMAS ATLIEKANT FOTOGRAFINIŲ VAIZDŲ PALYGINIMĄ KOVARIACIJOS METODU / ИЗМЕНЕНИЯ ПОЧВЕННО-РАСТИТЕЛЬНОГО ПОКРОВА, ВЫЯВЛЕННЫЕ ПРИ СРАВНЕНИИ ЦИФРО ВЫХ ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЙ КОВАРИАЦИОННЫМ МЕТОДОМ
Authors: Milieškaitė Jurgita
Published: November 2011

Accuracy issues of identification possibilities and analyzing digital images of land surface are examined using a covariance method. Digital images received using remote access methods are treated by the computer programes developed in the Matlab 7 software package environment. The paper investigates the opportunity to automatically compare two digital images of fragments and determines the interdependence of comparable images. The interdependence of two images is verified according to the calculated values of the correlation coefficient. Considering a more absolute value of the correlation coefficient between compared digital images, dependency is higher and vice versa. Such method could be applied to long-term monitoring in order to control the temporal evolution of selected images.

Santrauka

Aprašomas metodas, kuris galėtų būti taikomas atliekant ilgalaikę stebėseną – stebint pasirinktų objektų kitimą laikui bėgant. Nagrinėjama galimybė automatizuotai palyginti du skaitmeninių vaizdų fragmentus ir nustatyti šių lyginamų vaizdų tarpusavio priklausomybę. Skaitmeniniai vaizdai, gauti nuotoliniais metodais, apdorojami pagal sudarytą kompiuterinę programą Matlab 7 programinio paketo operatorių aplinkoje. Šia programa tarpusavyje lyginami du skaitmeniniai vaizdai. Jų tarpusavio priklausomybė įvertinama šia programa apskaičiuotomis koreliacijos koeficientų reikšmėmis. Kai koreliacijos koeficiento absoliučioji reikšmė didesnė, priklausomybė didesnė, ir atvirkščiai. Pagal tai galima įvertinti dviejų skaitmeninių vaizdų arba vieno vaizdo dviejų dalių (fragmentų) tarpusavio priklausomybę (panašumą).

Резюме

Описывается метод, который может быть применен для долгосрочного мониторинга – наблюдения за изменениями выбранных объектов во времени. Изучается возможность автоматически сравнивать между собой два фрагмента цифровых изображений и определять взаимозависимость этих сравниваемых изображений. Цифровые изображения, полученные дистанционными методами, обрабатываются по созданной компьютерной программе Matlab 7 в среде операторов программного пакета. По этой программе сопоставляются два цифровых изображения, взаимозависимость которых оценивается по рассчитанным программой значениям коэффициентов корреляции. При более высоких абсолютных значениях коэффициента корреляции взаимозависимость более высокая и наоборот. По этим значениям можно оценить взаимозависимость (сходство) двух цифровых изображений или двух частей (фрагментов) одного изображения.
Patient-reported Outcome in Psoriatic Arthritis: A Comparison of Web-based Versus Paper-completed Questionnaires
Authors: MacKENZIE HEATHER , THAVANESWARAN ARANE , CHANDRAN VINOD , GLADMAN DAFNA D.
Published: November 2011

Objective.

Patients followed in observational cohorts often complete patient-reported outcomes on paper questionnaires. With advances in technology, Web-based (WB) formats have been developed. The aims of our study were to determine whether WB and paper-based questionnaires (PB) completed by patients followed in the psoriatic arthritis (PsA) clinic are comparable; whether there is a patient preference for one method or the other; and whether any preference is related to patient characteristics.

Methods.

Consecutive patients followed at the PsA clinic completed the Health Assessment Questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36, fatigue scale, Dermatology Life Quality Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life Instrument, and EQ-5D both on paper (PB) and on computer by Internet (WB). Patients were also asked to complete questionnaires regarding their preference for one method or the other. Descriptive statistics and interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated.

Results.

Of 110 patients who agreed to participate, 67 (57.3%) successfully completed both PB and WB questionnaires. These patients did not differ from those who did not complete the questionnaires. WB and PB questionnaires took the same length of time to complete, with 20% of the patients complaining of more pain following completion of the questionnaires, more so with the PB. There was excellent agreement between the PB and WB (ICC 0.89–0.97) for all questionnaires.

Conclusion.

The PB and WB versions of 10 standardized self-administered questionnaires in patients with PsA were comparable. The WB format was well accepted by PsA outpatients. Patients may thus be offered a choice of format as well as the choice to complete the questionnaires either in the clinic or remotely by Internet.
Association Between Thr21Met and Ser89Asn Polymorphisms of the Urotensin II Gene and Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: PEHLIVAN YAVUZ , GOGEBAKAN BULENT , OZTUZCU SERDAR , OZGEN METIN , CETIN GÖZDE YILDIRIM , BAYRAKTAR RECEP , CENGIZ BEYHAN , KISACIK BUNYAMIN , KOCA SULEYMAN SERDAR , DONMEZ SALIM , SAYARLIOGLU MEHMET , DEMIRYUREK ABDULLAH T. , ONAT AHMET MESUT
Published: November 2011

Objective.

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune chronic fibrotic disorder. Urotensin II (U-II) is predominantly a vasoactive peptide with fibrotic and prothrombotic features. Like endothelin-1 (ET-1), U-II could play an important role in SSc pathogenesis. We evaluated the possible role of the U-II gene polymorphisms (Thr21Met and Ser89Asn) in the genetic susceptibility to SSc in a Turkish population.

Methods.

A total of 189 patients with SSc and 205 healthy controls were enrolled in our study. We analyzed the genotype and allele frequencies of the U-II (UTS2) gene polymorphisms Thr21Met and Ser89Asn in patients with SSc and in controls.

Results.

We found that the Thr21Met polymorphism of the UTS2 gene was markedly associated with the risk of developing SSc (p < 0.0001), but there was no relationship between the Ser89Asn polymorphism and SSc (p > 0.05). Two haplotypes (MS and TS) were markedly associated with SSc (p < 0.05). There were significant associations between the genotype and allele frequencies of UTS2 gene Thr21Met polymorphism and cases with diffuse or limited SSc, systemic or lung involvement, finger flexion deformity, pitting scars at the fingertips, positive anticentromere, or positive antitopoisomerase 1 antibody groups.

Conclusion.

Our study shows the association between Thr21Met, but not Ser89Asn, in the UTS2 gene and SSc. The results strongly suggest that this single-nucleotide polymorphism may be an important risk factor in the development of SSc, and a powerful indicator of severe skin and lung involvement in patients with SSc.
Acoustic sensing of deoxynivalenol in co-occurrence with zearalenone and T-2/HT-2 toxin in winter wheat cultivar Sirvinta from Lithuania
Authors: Juodeikiene G. , Basinskiene L. , Vidmantiene D. , Bartkiene E. , Bakutis B. , Baliukoniene V.
Published: November 2011

A fast acoustic screening method in combination with an ELISA method was applied for the detection of deoxynivalenol
(DON) in co-occurrence with some trichothecenes such as zearalenone (ZEA) and T-2/HT-2 toxins in winter wheat
grains (Triticum aestivum L.) of the most popular Lithuanian cultivar Sirvinta. Strong correlations between the
amplitude of the acoustic signal that penetrated the wheat samples and DON as well as total amount of mentioned
trichothecenes quantified by ELISA method were found (R2=0.787 and R2=0.794, respectively). It turned out
that weak correlations between the acoustic signal and the concentrations of ZEA and T-2/HT-2 were found.
These correlations suggest that DON is the marker of the Fusarium infected wheat grain. This statement is also
strengthened by the fact that DON is the most significant trichothecene contaminant of cereal grains in the world
and levels are generally higher in the wetter climates. The dependency determined between the acoustic signal
and structural physical characteristics (1000-kernel-weight) of the grain matrix could therefore be the basis for the
developed rapid acoustic method for cereal quality and safety control. Additional examination of microstructure of
wholesome and Fusarium-affected kernels under the scanning electron microscope revealed that obvious damage
to the starch granules and lack of protein matrix was caused by the increase in several enzyme activities in the
infected grains. Moderate positive relationships between α-amylase, protease and xylanase activities, and the degree
of Fusarium infection were found (for α-amylase R2=0.623, for protease R2=0.823, and for xylanase R2=0.682). An
intriguing characterisation may contribute to explanations as to how and to what extent wheat starch granules of
different sizes stay more or less intact by slightly infected grains while the wheat starch granules are damaged and/
or completely destroyed by seriously infected grains. The changes of the protease activity had a slightly detectable
influence on the crude protein content in seriously infected grain samples which might have an effect on dough
properties and the quality of bread.
Emotional Intelligence: Growing Your Self-Regard
Authors: Pisanos Diane E.
Published: November 2011

This column focuses on one of the most important competencies in emotional intelligence—self-regard.
Correction of Presbyopia With a Small Aperture Corneal Inlay
Authors: Waring George O.
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

To assess the efficacy of a small aperture corneal inlay (KAMRA, AcuFocus Inc) to improve near vision in emmetropic presbyopes.

Methods:

Prospective, nonrandomized, multicenter clinical trial in presbyopic emmetropes aged 45 to 60 years. A small corneal pocket or flap was created in the nondominant eye by femtosecond laser or mechanical microkeratome, and the inlay (N=507) placed on the stromal bed. Uncorrected visual acuity was measured for the implanted eye at near (40 cm), intermediate (80 cm), and distance (20 ft) using ETDRS charts with the Optec 6500 Vision Tester (Stereo Optical Inc) at the preoperative, and 1-, 3-, 6-, 9-, 12-, and 18-month postoperative examinations. Contrast sensitivity (CS) was measured with best distance correction in the implanted eye using the Optec system and FACT chart under photopic (85 cd/m
2
) and mesopic (3 cd/m
2
) conditions preoperatively and at 1-year follow-up.

Results:

Mean patient age was 52.87±3.64 years. Monocular mean uncorrected near visual acuity was J8 (0.482±0.925 logMAR) preoperatively, J3 (0.185±0.848 logMAR) at 1 month (n=506,
P
<.0001), and J2 (0.139±0.851 logMAR) at 18 months (n=99,
P
<.0001). Mean uncorrected intermediate visual acuity was 20/35 (0.239±0.837 logMAR) preoperatively and 20/26 (0.139±0853 logMAR) at 18 months (
P
<.0001). Mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 20/20 (0.011±0.890 logMAR) at 18 months. Photopic (
P
<.001) and mesopic (
P
<.0001) monocular contrast sensitivities were within the range of the normal population at 1 year.

Conclusions:

The KAMRA corneal inlay improved near visual acuity with minimal impact on UDVA or mesopic contrast sensitivity in the implanted eye.
Pilot Study of a New Posterior Chamber Phakic Intraocular Lens (Epi.Lens) for High Myopia
Authors: Bredow Laura , Biermann Julia , Tomalla Mark , Schilgen Gisbert , Grossmann Wilhelm , Reinhard Thomas
Published: November 2011

PURPOSE:

To report the first safety and efficacy results of a new posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (PIOL) (Epi.Lens, Acri.Tec/Carl Zeiss Meditec) implanted in the ciliary sulcus to correct high myopia.

METHODS:

The Epi.Lens was implanted for the first time in 48 consecutive eyes of 25 patients in an ongoing two-center clinical study. Pre- and postoperative manifest refraction, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure, slit-lamp and funduscopic examination, and ultrasound biomicroscopy were evaluated. Follow-up examinations were performed at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. For each patient, the latest follow-up data were considered.

RESULTS:

The study cohort consisted of highly myopic patients with mean preoperative manifest refraction spherical equivalent of −9.90±2.53 D, which was reduced to −0.26±0.84 D postoperatively. Two (4.2%) eyes lost one line of CDVA postoperatively, whereas 19 (40%) met and 27 (56%) eyes exceeded preoperative CDVA values, thus improving mean CDVA from 0.83±0.30 to 1.03±0.26. Mean postoperative UDVA (0.85±0.37) was similar to preoperative CDVA (0.83±0.30). When considering all eyes with good visual potential (preoperative CDVA ≥1.00 [20/20] [n=25]), 20 (80%) achieved postoperative UDVA ≥1.00 (20/20), and 24 (96%) achieved UDVA ≥0.80 (20/25). One lens with a small diameter showed contact of the Epi.Lens and crystalline lens with subsequent slight anterior subcapsular cataract; however, CDVA was 1.00 (20/20) at last follow-up 2 years postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this Epi.Lens pilot study demonstrate good safety and efficacy. The preliminary data are encouraging, and longer follow-up results are anticipated.
Cancer-Associated Nummular Loss of RPE: Expanding the Clinical Spectrum of Bilateral Diffuse Uveal Melanocytic Proliferation
Authors: Navajas Eduardo V. , Simpson E. Rand , Krema Hatem , Hammoudi Dena S. , Weisbrod Daniel , Bernardini Marcus , Altomare Filiberto
Published: November 2011

This report describes a case of cancer-associated nummular retinal pigment epithelium loss associated with uterine cancer. The patient had progressive visual loss despite treatment with plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobulin, and local injection of corticosteroids. Clinical deterioration was corroborated by extension of the areas of retinal pigment epithelium loss, progression of cataracts, and growth of pigmented choroidal and iris lesions. Previously published cases of cancer-associated nummular retinal pigment epithelium loss did not describe the presence of cataracts or uveal melanocytic lesions. This case expands the clinical spectrum of bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation.
Oropharyngeal Secretion Volume in Intubated Patients: The Importance of Oral Suctioning
Authors: Sole Mary Lou , Penoyer Daleen Aragon , Bennett Melody , Bertrand Jill , Talbert Steven
Published: November 2011

Background

Aspiration of secretions that accumulate above the cuff of the endotracheal tube is a risk factor for ventilator-associated pneumonia. Routine suctioning of oropharyngeal secretions may reduce this risk; the recommended frequency for suctioning is unknown.

Objectives

To quantify the volume of secretions suctioned from the oropharynx of critically ill patients at 2 different intervals to assist in identifying a recommended frequency for oropharyngeal suctioning.

Methods

A prospective, repeated measure, single-group design was used. Twenty-eight patients who were orally intubated and treated with mechanical ventilation were enrolled; 2 were extubated during data collection, yielding a sample of 26 patients. The patients were suctioned at baseline with a deep suction catheter, and the volume and weight of secretions were recorded. The procedure was repeated at 2-hour and 4-hour intervals.

Results

Most of the patients were male (mean age, 49 years). Three suctioning passes were needed to clear secretions, with a mean time of 48.1 seconds. The mean volume of secretions at the 2-hour interval was 7.5 mL. Five patients required suctioning before the 4-hour interval. For the remaining 21 patients, the volume retrieved was 6.5 mL at the 2-hour interval and 7.5 mL at the 4-hour interval (P = .27). The 5 patients who required extra suctioning had significantly more secretions at the 2-hour interval (11.6 mL vs 6.5 mL; P = .05).

Conclusions

A minimum frequency of oropharyngeal suctioning every 4 hours is recommended. However, more frequent suctioning may be needed in a subset of patients.
Adverse Drug Events in Intensive Care Units: A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Seynaeve Simon , Verbrugghe Walter , Claes Brigitte , Vandenplas Dirk , Reyntiens Dirk , Jorens Philippe G.
Published: November 2011

Background

Adverse drug events are considered determinants of patient safety and quality of care.

Objective

To assess the characteristics of adverse drug events in patients admitted to an intensive care unit and determine the impact of severity of illness and nursing workload on the prevalence of the events.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey based on retrospective analysis of a high-quality patient data management system for a university-based intensive care unit was used. The prevalence of adverse drug events was measured by using a validated global trigger tool adapted for the critical care environment. Severity was determined by using a validated algorithm. Disease severity and nursing workload were assessed by using validated scoring systems. An investigator blinded to the study and a panel of experts assessed putative serious adverse drug events for each drug taken. Characteristics of patients with and without adverse drug events were compared by using univariate and stepwise multivariate logistic regression.

Results

During 175 of 1009 intensive care unit days screened, 230 adverse drug events occurred in 79 patients. The most common events were hypoglycemia, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, and hypokalemia. Of the adverse events, 96% were classified as causing temporary harm and 4% as causing complications. Both mean severity of disease and nursing workload were significantly higher on days when 1 or more adverse drug events occurred.

Conclusion

Adverse drug events were common in intensive care unit patients and were associated with illness severity and nursing workload.
Involving Users in the Development of Effective Critical Care Discharge Information: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Bench Suzanne D. , Day Tina , Griffiths Peter
Published: November 2011

Background

Discharge from critical care to a general care unit is a difficult period, and more effective information is needed to support patients and their families at this time.

Objectives

This study sought the views of patients, relatives and health care staff on (1) the most effective methods of delivering critical care discharge information, (2) the required information content of any proposed strategies, (3) the benefits and limitations of any existing strategies, and (4) potential resource implications.

Methods

In this qualitative focus group study, 11 adult patients, 8 family members, and 23 health care staff in Eng-land took part in 8 focus group interviews at 2 hospitals. The computer software program NVIVO7 was used for thematic analysis of the data.

Results

Three key themes were identified from the data: (1) considerations related to effective discharge information, (2) goals of critical care discharge information, and (3) resource implications.

Conclusions

This focus group study provides unique user insight into what influences successful and unsuccessful information giving. Based on real experiences, it adds to the limited international body of current evidence. Findings will be of value in designing future critical care discharge information and identifying the related resource implications.
Paxillin Associates with the Microtubule Cytoskeleton and the Immunological Synapse of CTL through Its Leucine-Aspartic Acid Domains and Contributes to Microtubule Organizing Center Reorientation
Authors: Robertson Leslie K. , Ostergaard Hanne L.
Published: November 2011

The cytoskeletal adaptor protein paxillin localizes to the microtubule organizing center (MTOC) in T cells and, upon target cell binding, is recruited to the supramolecular activation complex (SMAC). We mapped the region of paxillin that associates with both the MTOC and SMAC to the leucine-aspartic acid (LD) domains and showed that a protein segment containing LD2–4 was sufficient for MTOC and SMAC recruitment. Examination of the localization of paxillin at the SMAC revealed that paxillin localizes to the peripheral area of the SMAC along with LFA-1, suggesting that LFA-1 may contribute to its recruitment. LFA-1 or CD3 engagement alone was insufficient for paxillin recruitment because there was no paxillin accumulation at the site of CTL contact with anti–LFA-1– or anti-CD3–coated beads. In contrast, paxillin accumulation was detected when beads coated with both anti-CD3 and anti–LFA-1 were bound to CTL, suggesting that signals from both the TCR and LFA-1 are required for paxillin accumulation. Paxillin was shown to be phosphorylated downstream of ERK, but when we generated a mutation (S83A/S130A) that abolished the mobility shift as a result of phosphorylation, we found that paxillin still bound to the MTOC and was recruited to the SMAC. Furthermore, ERK was not absolutely required for MTOC reorientation in CTL that require ERK for killing. Finally, expression of the LD2–4 region of paxillin substantially reduced MTOC reorientation. These studies demonstrated that paxillin is recruited, through its LD domains, to sites of integrin engagement and may contribute to MTOC reorientation required for directional degranulation.
Attenuated Atherosclerotic Lesions in apoE-Fcγ–Chain-Deficient Hyperlipidemic Mouse Model Is Associated with Inhibition of Th17 Cells and Promotion of Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Ng Hang Pong , Burris Ramona L. , Nagarajan Shanmugam
Published: November 2011

Though the presence of antioxidized low-density lipoprotein IgG is well documented in clinical and animal studies, the role for FcγRs to the progression of atherosclerosis has not been studied in detail. In the current study, we investigated the role for activating FcγR in the progression of atherosclerosis using apolipoprotein E (apoE)-Fcγ-chain double-knockout (DKO) mice. Relative to apoE knockout (KO) mice, arterial lesion formation was significantly decreased in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Bone marrow chimera studies showed reduced lesions in apoE KO mice receiving the bone marrow of apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Compared to apoE KO mice, antioxidized low-density lipoprotein IgG1 (Th2) and IgG2a (Th1), IL-10, and IFN-γ secretion by activated T cells was increased in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. These findings suggest that reduced atherosclerotic lesion in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice is not due to a Th1/Th2 imbalance. Interestingly, the number of Th17 cells and the secretion of IL-17 by activated CD4+ cells were decreased in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Notably, the number of regulatory T cells, expression of mRNA, and secretion of TGF-β and IL-10 were increased in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Furthermore, secretions of IL-6 and STAT-3 phosphorylation essential for Th17 cell genesis were reduced in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Importantly, decrease in Th17 cells in apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice was due to reduced IL-6 release by APC of apoE-Fcγ-chain DKO mice. Collectively, our data suggest that activating FcγR promotes atherosclerosis by inducing a Th17 response in the hyperlipidemic apoE KO mouse model.
PTEN Negatively Regulates Engulfment of Apoptotic Cells by Modulating Activation of Rac GTPase
Authors: Mondal Subhanjan , Ghosh-Roy Saurabh , Loison Fabien , Li Yitang , Jia Yonghui , Harris Chad , Williams David A. , Luo Hongbo R.
Published: November 2011

Efficient clearance of apoptotic cells by phagocytes (efferocytosis) is critical for normal tissue homeostasis and regulation of the immune system. Apoptotic cells are recognized by a vast repertoire of receptors on macrophage that lead to transient formation of phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3] and subsequent cytoskeletal reorganization necessary for engulfment. Certain PI3K isoforms are required for engulfment of apoptotic cells, but relatively little is known about the role of lipid phosphatases in this process. In this study, we report that the activity of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN), a phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphatase, is elevated upon efferocytosis. Depletion of PTEN in macrophage results in elevated PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production and enhanced phagocytic ability both in vivo and in vitro, whereas overexpression of wild-type PTEN abrogates this process. Loss of PTEN in macrophage leads to activation of the pleckstrin homology domain-containing guanine-nucleotide exchange factor Vav1 and subsequent activation of Rac1 GTPase, resulting in increased amounts of F-actin upon engulfment of apoptotic cells. PTEN disruption also leads to increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 and decreased production of proinflammatory IL-6 and TNF-α upon engulfment of apoptotic cells. These data suggest that PTEN exerts control over efferocytosis potentially by regulating PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 levels that modulate Rac GTPase and F-actin reorganization through Vav1 exchange factor and enhancing apoptotic cell-induced anti-inflammatory response.
Structure-Based Selection of Small Molecules To Alter Allele-Specific MHC Class II Antigen Presentation
Authors: Michels Aaron W. , Ostrov David A. , Zhang Li , Nakayama Maki , Fuse Masanori , McDaniel Kristen , Roep Bart O. , Gottlieb Peter A. , Atkinson Mark A. , Eisenbarth George S.
Published: November 2011

Class II major histocompatibility molecules are the primary susceptibility locus for many autoimmune disorders, including type 1 diabetes. Human DQ8 and I-Ag7, in the NOD mouse model of spontaneous autoimmune diabetes, confers diabetes risk by modulating presentation of specific islet peptides in the thymus and periphery. We used an in silico molecular docking program to screen a large “druglike” chemical library to define small molecules capable of occupying specific structural pockets along the I-Ag7 binding groove, with the objective of influencing presentation to T cells of the autoantigen insulin B chain peptide consisting of amino acids 9–23. In this study we show, using both murine and human cells, that small molecules can enhance or inhibit specific TCR signaling in the presence of cognate target peptides, based upon the structural pocket targeted. The influence of compounds on the TCR response was pocket dependent, with pocket 1 and 6 compounds inhibiting responses and molecules directed at pocket 9 enhancing responses to peptide. At nanomolar concentrations, the inhibitory molecules block the insulin B chain peptide consisting of amino acids 9–23, endogenous insulin, and islet-stimulated T cell responses. Glyphosine, a pocket 9 compound, enhances insulin peptide presentation to T cells at concentrations as low as 10 nM, upregulates IL-10 secretion, and prevents diabetes in NOD mice. These studies present a novel method for identifying small molecules capable of both stimulating and inhibiting T cell responses, with potentially therapeutic applications.
A Comparative Analysis of Viral Peptides Presented by Contemporary Human and Chimpanzee MHC Class I Molecules
Authors: van Deutekom Hanneke W. M. , Hoof Ilka , Bontrop Ronald E. , Keşmir Can
Published: November 2011

Genetic factors such as the MHC influence the immunocompetence of an individual. MHC genes are the most polymorphic genes in primates, which is often interpreted as an adaptation to establish good T cell responses to a wide range of (evolving) pathogens. Chimpanzee MHC (Patr) genes are less polymorphic than human MHC (HLA) genes, which is surprising because chimpanzee is the older species of the two and is therefore expected to display more variation. To quantify the effect of the reduced polymorphism, we compared the peptide binding repertoire of human and chimpanzee MHC molecules. Using a peptide-MHC binding predictor and proteomes of >900 mammalian viruses, we show that, at the population level, the total peptide binding repertoire of Patr-A molecules is ∼36% lower than that of their human counterparts, whereas the reduction of the peptide binding repertoire of the Patr-B locus is only 15%. In line with these results, different Patr-A molecules turn out to have largely overlapping peptide binding repertoires, whereas the Patr-B molecules are more distinct from each other. This difference is somewhat less apparent at the individual level, where we found that only 25% of the viruses are significantly better presented by “simulated” humans with heterozygous HLA-A and -B loci. Taken together, our results indicate that the Patr-B molecules recovered more after the selective sweep, whereas the Patr-A locus shows the most signs of the selective sweep with regard to its peptide binding repertoire.
Juvenile Myasthenia Gravis: A Paediatric Perspective
Authors: Finnis Maria F. , Jayawant Sandeep
Published: November 2011

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies are directed against the postsynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction, resulting in muscle weakness and fatigability. Juvenile myasthenia gravis (JMG) is a rare condition of childhood and has many clinical features that are distinct from adult MG. Prepubertal children in particular have a higher prevalence of isolated ocular symptoms, lower frequency of acetylcholine receptor antibodies, and a higher probability of achieving remission. Diagnosis in young children can be complicated by the need to differentiate from congenital myasthenic syndromes, which do not have an autoimmune basis. Treatment commonly includes anticholinesterases, corticosteroids with or without steroid-sparing agents, and newer immune modulating agents. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) are effective in preparation for surgery and in treatment of myasthenic crisis. Thymectomy increases remission rates. Diagnosis and management of children with JMG should take account of their developmental needs, natural history of the condition, and side-effect profiles of treatment options.
Quality Attributes of Cupuaçu Juice in Response to Treatment with Crude Enzyme Extract Produced byAspergillus japonicus586
Authors: Teixeira Maria Francisca Simas , Andrade Jerusa Souza , Fernandes Ormezinda Celeste Cristo , Durán Nelson , Lima Filho José Luiz de
Published: November 2011

Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorumSchum) is an Amazonian Basin native fruit whose fruit pulp is consumed as a juice which presents high density, viscosity, and turbidity. Pectic enzymes, usually yielded by microorganisms, are used to reduce the juice viscosity and turbidity. The present study aims to evaluate the use of pectic enzymes when processing cupuaçu juice. The cupuaçu juice was obtained by usingAspergillus japonicus586 crude enzyme extract and incubation at 50°C with agitation (140 rpm) for one hour. Enzyme activities were determined, and the juices were evaluated as to their yield, turbidity, viscosity, and chemical composition. The juice produced by using crude enzyme extract presented higher soluble solids, reducing sugars, and lower viscosity and turbidity.
Surficial geology, Pangnirtung south, Baffin Island, Nunavut
Authors: Dyke A S
Published: November 2011

In 2009, as part of the GEM project of the Geological Survey of Canada, Cumberland Peninsula east and southeast of the National Park was mapped. Mapping included several aspects of the regional Precambrian geology, as well as the Quaternary geology. Regional till
was sampled for sedimentological and geochemical purposes, and moraines and other deposits were sampled for cosmogenic exposure dating.
The eastern part of the peninsula is today an area of intensive alpine glaciation and evidently has experienced this style of glaciation throughout the Quaternary. During the last glacial maximum, alpine glaciers thickened to form regional ice divides over the mountains. Ice flow from these divides
covered most, possibly all, of the region and supplied ice streams along several fiords. This local ice coalesced with the Laurentide Ice Sheet in Cumberland Sound. Despite possibly repeated glaciation, substantial areas show little or no sign of glacial erosion and retain Tertiary surfaces mantled
with block fields and tors.
Ngwaga wa Mopedi: seka sa ngwaga wa merafe ye mengwe ya Bibele
Authors: Mojalefa Mawatle J.
Published: November 2011

The Pedi year: A comparison with the year of the other biblical nations The investigation grounds arguments on facts that there is correlation between Sepedi and Hebrew calendars particularly in relation to similarity as well as difference between the two nations� beliefs which are related to the number (twelve months) of the months of the year. This means that Sepedi and Hebrew believe that the year comprised twelve months. Adding to this, the four Hebrew�s early names of the months of the year, namely Abib, Ziv, Ethanim and Bul, of uncertain meaning, differ from the contemporary Hebrew calendar months. This featuristic phenomenon appears also in the Sepedi naming of the months of the year where a month is named after two or more names, such as Dibokwane (February), Hlakola (March), Mopitlo (May), Phupu (June) and Ngwatobo�ego (June) as well as Mosegamanye (July). The arrangement of the months of the year brings forth certain similarity to the two calendars of these two languages. However, there is difference between the two calendars in relation to the number of the days of the week.
AI-Complete CAPTCHAs as Zero Knowledge Proofs of Access to an Artificially Intelligent System
Authors: Yampolskiy Roman V.
Published: November 2011

Experts predict that in the next 10 to 100 years scientists will succeed in creating human-level artificial general intelligence. While it is most likely that this task will be accomplished by a government agency or a large corporation, the possibility remains that it will be done by a single inventor or a small team of researchers. In this paper, we address the question of safeguarding a discovery which could without hesitation be said to be worth trillions of dollars. Specifically, we propose a method based on the combination of zero knowledge proofs and provably AI-complete CAPTCHA problems to show that a superintelligent system has been constructed without having to reveal the system itself.
Progressive macular hypomelanosis among Egyptian patients: a clinicopathological study
Authors: Selim Mohamed Khaled , Ahmed El-Shahat Farag , Abdelgawad Mamdouh Morsy , El-Kamel Mohammed Fawzy
Published: November 2011

Background: Progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH) is a disease of unclear etiology. Propionbacterium acnes (P. acnes) was claimed to be an etiological factor.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to document the clinicopathological features of PMH in Egyptian patients and to evaluate the therapeutic outcome.

Methods: Patients with clinical features of PMH were recruited. Wood’s lamp examination, skin scrapings for fungi, and skin biopsy specimens were obtained. Biopsies were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, PAS, Fontana-Masson, and S100 protein. Patients received either narrow-band UVB (nbUVB) or nbUVB plus daily topical clindamycin 1% and benzoyl peroxide gel 5% (bcUVB). The period of active treatment was 14 weeks followed by a follow-up period of 24 weeks.

Results: Twenty-nine patients were included. Microscopic evaluation of skin biopsy specimens showed no significant differences between lesional and normal skin. Fontana-Masson stained sections showed overall reduction of melanin granules in the basal layer of lesional skin only and S100 staining did not detect significant differences in the number of melanocytes in lesional and normal skin. Nearly complete repigmentation was reported in 10 patients treated with bcUVB compared to 9 patients treated with nbUVb with no significant differences between both groups after 14 weeks. Only 2 patients in each group retained the pigmentation and the remaining patients returned to the baseline color before treatment.

Conclusions: This study documented the clinicopathological features of PMH among Egyptians. No permanently effective treatment is available. Further studies are needed to prove or disprove the pathogenic role of P. acnes in PMH.
Signature nevi: individuals with multiple melanocytic nevi commonly have similar clinical and histologic patterns
Authors: Hurwitz Robert M. , Buckel Larry J.
Published: November 2011

Individuals with multiple melanocytic nevi oftentimes have melanocytic nevi, usually two, with similar clinical and histopathologic patterns that may be typical or atypical. The melanocytic nevi are known in common parlance as signature nevi [1, 2]. In addition to being aware of these nevi, finding multiple unconventional melanocytic nevi with architectural pattern asymmetric and/or cellular pattern atypical helps to lend credence to the diagnosis of melanocytic nevus rather than melanoma. In order to evaluate the concept of the signature nevus we reviewed the histopathologic patterns of melanocytic nevi from patients having at least two nevi with similar histologic patterns.
Melanoma arising in a giant nevus spilus maculosus
Authors: Stella Alexander , Ponholzer Katharina , Weingast Jessika , Binder Michael
Published: November 2011

Melanoma arising in a nevus spilus is rare. There are two distinct types of nevus spilus characterized by macular or papular speckles, respectively. We report the case of a melanoma that arose in association with a giant nevus spilus maculosus.
Histopathology of drug eruptions-general criteria, common patterns, and differential diagnosis
Authors: Weyers Wolfgang , Metze Dieter
Published: November 2011

Drug eruptions are among the most common inflammatory diseases of the skin and also among those biopsied most often. Yet, the value of histopathologic examination of drug eruptions has often been disputed. One reason is that the spectrum of histopathologic changes in drug eruptions is broad. Nevertheless, each histopathologic pattern assumed by drug eruptions has a limited number of differential diagnoses, and numerous criteria and clues are available to distinguish drug eruptions from other diseases associated with those patterns. By recognition of common patterns, consideration of differential diagnoses, and attention to distinct clues, a histopathologic diagnosis of drug eruption can usually be made with confidence.
Saved by step sections: an unusual presentation of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Werner Betina , Mulinari-Brenner Fabiane
Published: November 2011

Background: Basal cell carcinoma usually occurs in sun exposed areas of older male individuals.

Objectives: To emphasize the importance of histological step sections in the pursuit of the correct diagnosis when microscopic findings do not correspond to clinical hypothesis.

Patient: 21-year-old female with a superficial basal cell carcinoma in pubic region diagnosed after histological step sections and treated with topical imiquimod.

Conclusions: Although very rare, basal cell carcinomas do occur in young patients and, at times, on areas of the body where they are not conventionally seen. Step sections are an important tool that dermatopathologists should use on a regular basis to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Growth rate of melanoma in vivo and correlation with dermatoscopic and dermatopathologic findings
Authors: Beer Jürgen , Xu Lina , Tschandl Philipp , Kittler Harald
Published: November 2011

Objectives: The aim of this study was to calculate the horizontal growth rate of melanoma in vivo and to correlate it with morphologic findings.

Patients and Methods: We searched our database for melanomas for which sequential dermatoscopic images and histopathologic slides were available. The final sample consisted of 50 melanomas of 48 patients (mean age: 50 ± 15 years, 62% females). We calculated the horizontal growth rate in mm2 per year by morphometric analysis of digital dermatoscopic images. Dermatoscopic and dermatopathologic findings were assessed according to predefined criteria and correlated with the horizontal growth rate.

Results: The median time interval between baseline and follow-up image was 12 months (range: 2-100 months). The majority of melanomas were in situ (n=28, 56%). The mean horizontal growth rate of all melanomas was 5.3 mm2/year (SD: ± 5.8 mm2/year). The histopathologic findings of numerous and large epidermal nests were associated with rapid growth. This histopathologic pattern corresponded to a pattern of clods (“globules”) dermatoscopically. From a dermatoscopic point of view, melanomas with a main pattern of clods grew significantly faster (mean horizontal growth rate: 10.4 mm2/year, 95% CI: 6.4-14.4 mm2/year) than melanomas with mainly a reticular pattern (4.8 mm2/year, 95% CI: 2.7-7.0 mm2/year) or with other patterns (2.6 mm2/year, 95% CI: -0.5-5.6 mm2/year, p=0.01).

Conclusion: Morphologic characteristics of melanoma are associated with biologic behavior. Large and numerous epidermal nests (corresponding to a pattern of clods dermatoscopically) indicate more rapid growth.
Bilateral Retinal Vascular Tortuosity and Hemorrhages
Authors: Borrelli Enrico , Serafino Sonia , Reibaldi Michele
Published: June 2024

A 28-year-old man presented with decreased visual acuity in his right eye for the past 2 weeks. Examination revealed dilated and tortuous veins, Roth spots, and white intraretinal agglomerates. What would you do next?
Actuator multiplicative and additive simultaneous faults estimation using a qLPV proportional integral unknown input observer
Authors: Gasga P. , Bernal M. , Gómez‐Peñate S. , López‐Estrada F.R. , Valencia‐Palomo G. , Santos‐Ruiz I.
Published: June 2024

This paper introduces a technique for simultaneous estimation of additive and multiplicative faults in the actuators of nonlinear systems represented by quasi‐linear parameter varying (qLPV) models based on a proportional‐integral unknown input observer. The qLPV model, structured with a tensor product, allows for optimized flexibility of the observer gain. A distinguishing aspect of our method is the novel approach to nonlinearity, which is not only recast as a convex sum but also in the input vector. The study comprehensively analyses the robustness and convergence conditions through Lyapunov stability evaluation. A robust performance criterion is incorporated to minimize the influence of measurement noise and disturbances. As a result, a set of linear matrix inequalities are obtained. Two examples are examined to demonstrate the practical applicability and efficacy of the proposed method, highlighting the observer's performance under the actuator faults.
A Biodegradable Fiber Calcium Ion Sensor by Covalently Bonding Ionophores on Bioinert Nanoparticles
Authors: Yu Sihui , Tang Chengqiang , Yu Sijia , Li Wenjun , Wang Jiajia , Liu Ziwei , Yan Xinheng , Wang Liyuan , Yang Yiqing , Feng Jianyou , Wu Jiaqi , Zhang Kailin , Guan Hang , Liu Yue , Zhang Songlin , Sun Xuemei , Peng Huisheng
Published: June 2024

Implantable sensors, especially ion sensors, facilitate the progress of scientific research and personalized healthcare. However, the permanent retention of implants induces health risks after sensors fulfill their mission of chronic sensing. Biodegradation is highly anticipated; while; biodegradable chemical sensors are rare due to concerns about the leakage of harmful active molecules after degradation, such as ionophores. Here, a novel biodegradable fiber calcium ion sensor is introduced, wherein ionophores are covalently bonded with bioinert nanoparticles to replace the classical ion‐selective membrane. The fiber sensor demonstrates comparable sensing performance to classical ion sensors and good flexibility. It can monitor the fluctuations of Ca2+ in a 4‐day lifespan in vivo and biodegrade in 4 weeks. Benefiting from the stable bonding between ionophores and nanoparticles, the biodegradable sensor exhibits a good biocompatibility after degradation. Moreover, this approach of bonding active molecules on bioinert nanoparticles can serve as an effective methodology for minimizing health concerns about biodegradable chemical sensors.
Unlocking Transplant Tolerance with Biomaterials
Authors: Pham John‐Paul A. , Coronel María M.
Published: June 2024

For patients suffering from organ failure due to injury or autoimmune disease, allogeneic organ transplantation with chronic immunosuppression is considered the god standard in terms of clinical treatment. However, the true “holy grail” of transplant immunology is operational tolerance, in which the recipient exhibits a sustained lack of alloreactivity toward unencountered antigen presented by the donor graft. This outcome is resultant from critical changes to the phenotype and genotype of the immune repertoire predicated by the activation of specific signaling pathways responsive to soluble and mechanosensitive cues. Biomaterials have emerged as a medium for interfacing with and reprogramming these endogenous pathways toward tolerance in precise, minimally invasive, and spatiotemporally defined manners. By viewing seminal and contemporary breakthroughs in transplant tolerance induction through the lens of biomaterials‐mediated immunomodulation strategies—which include intrinsic material immunogenicity, the depot effect, graft coatings, induction and delivery of tolerogenic immune cells, biomimicry of tolerogenic immune cells, and in situ reprogramming—this review emphasizes the stunning diversity of approaches in the field and spotlights exciting future directions for research to come.
Plasma Coupled Electrolyte Additive Strategy for Construction of High‐Performance Solid Electrolyte Interphase on Li Metal Anodes
Authors: Liu Ping , Shen Shenghui , Qiu Zhong , Yang Tianqi , Liu Yaning , Su Han , Zhang Yongqi , Li Jingru , Cao Feng , Zhong Yu , Liang Xinqi , Chen Minghua , He Xinping , Xia Yang , Wang Chen , Wan Wangjun , Tu Jiangping , Zhang Wenkui , Xia Xinhui
Published: June 2024

High‐performance lithium metal anodes are crucial for the development of advanced Li metal batteries. Herein, this work reports a novel plasma coupled electrolyte additive strategy to prepare high‐quality composite solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on Li metal to achieve enhanced performance and stability. With the guidance of calculations, this work selects diethyl dibromomalonate (DB) as an additive to optimize the solvation structure of electrolytes to modify the SEI. Meanwhile, this work groundbreakingly develops DB plasma technology coupled with DB electrolyte additive to construct a combinatorial SEI: inner plasma‐induced SEI layer composed of LiBr and Li2CO3 plus additive‐reduced SEI containing LiBr/Li2CO3/organic lithium compounds as an outer compatible layer. The optimized hybrid SEI has strong affinity toward Li+ and good mechanical properties, thereby inducing horizontal dispersion and uniform deposition of Li+ and keep structure stable. Accordingly, the symmetrical cells exhibit enhanced cycling stability for 1200 h at an overpotential of 23.8 mV with average coulombic efficiency (99.51%). Additionally, the full cells with LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode deliver a capacity retention of 81.7% after 300 cycles at 0.5 C, and the pouch cell achieves a volumetric specific energy of ≈664 Wh L‒1. This work provides new enlightenment on plasma technology for fabrication of advanced metal anodes for energy storage.