bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attracting Students to the Field of Measurement
Authors: Finney Sara J. , Pastor Dena A.
Published: June 2012

To address the shortage of professionals in measurement, it is essential that we make young career‐seekers aware that measurement is an option as a profession. In this paper, we discuss how creating a strong pipeline of students into our field involves personal interactions between faculty representing the graduate programs in measurement and undergraduate students, in addition to the equally important task of educating instructors of undergraduates about our field. We describe advertising strategies that, in our experience, catch and hold the attention of undergraduates, resulting in many of them investigating graduate training in measurement. After attracting students to the field, we must engage them in practice, enabling them to build an identity as a measurement professional. In general, we believe that although it is possible to attract some students via non‐personal advertising strategies (e.g., articles, websites), measurement professionals must personally reach out to young people to connect them with the field.
Teaching Introductory Measurement: Suggestions for What to Include and How to Motivate Students
Authors: Bandalos Deborah L. , Kopp Jason P.
Published: June 2012

In this article, we discuss the importance of measurement literacy and some issues encountered in teaching introductory measurement courses. We present results from a survey of introductory measurement instructors, including information about the topics included in such courses and the amount of time spent on each. Topics that were included by the largest percentages of respondents were: validity, reliability, item analysis, item development, norms, standardized scores, classical test theory, instrument interpretation, and the history of testing, each of which was covered by at least 50% of respondents. Respondents were also asked the number of class sessions spent on each topic, and were asked to rate the importance of each. Responses to these questions closely paralleled those regarding the percentages of respondents who included these topics in their courses. We also report suggestions for class activities, arguing that those teaching introductory measurement courses should emphasize the relevance of measurement concepts to students’ lives and future careers. To this end, we provide suggestions for activities that might help to accomplish this goal.
The Media and Educational Testing: In Pursuit of the Truth or in Pursuit of a Good Story?
Authors: Camara Wayne J. , Shaw Emily J.
Published: June 2012

The measurement community needs to better understand how to interact with the media to effectively disseminate important findings from educational testing efforts. To this end, the current paper will review media coverage of educational testing and related issues and elaborate on areas of concern and opportunities for improved communication between measurement professionals and the media. Common misinterpretations of test results and measurement concepts will be discussed and suggestions for the clearer presentation and explanation of such information will be offered. Also, practical advice and strategies for handling different types of interactions with the media will be provided. The implications of focusing on this topic in the measurement profession and the inherent public value of this focus are highlighted throughout the paper.
Dehumidifier Assisted Drying of a Model Fruit Pulp‐Based Gel and Sensory Attributes
Authors: Tiwari Shipra , Ravi Ramasamy , Bhattacharya Suvendu
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  Model fruit pulp‐based gels were prepared by varying mango pulp (0% to 50%), sucrose (0% to 20%), and agar (1% to 3%) and according to a response surface experimental design followed by drying at a low temperature of 40 °C upto 15 h in a tray dryer assisted by a dehumidifier. The moisture content, shrinkage (SHR), and rheological parameters (failure strain, failure stress (FS), firmness, and energy for compression) were determined as a function of drying time. The composition of gel, particularly the agar content had a prominent effect on the characteristics of the dried gel. Detailed descriptive sensory analysis employing principle component analysis (PCA) biplot indicated two distinct groups of attributes; the first group comprised initial and final moisture contents, extent of moisture removal (EMR), and shrinkage. The fracture stress and energy formed the second group. The analysis of variance for failure stress showed that it depended only on the positive linear and quadratic effects of agar (significant at P≤ 0.01 and 0.05, respectively). The theoretically predicted extent of moisture removal at 95.6% could be achieved when the level of agar was 1.2%; pulp and sucrose levels were also close to their lowest levels of 3.6% and 0.04%, respectively.

Practical Application:  Scope exists to develop gel‐based fruit analogues wherein an appropriate hydrocolloid can be employed along with fruit juice/pulp. To provide a reasonable shelf‐life of the developed intermediate moisture containing product, dehumidifier assisted drying is a pragmatic approach that affects sensory and rheological attributes of the dried fruit analogue.
Bacterial Diversity in Dried Colostrum and Whey Sold as Nutraceutical Products
Authors: Hayes M. Melissa , Hughes Thomas A. , Greene Annel K.
Published: June 2012

Abstract:  The microbial communities were analyzed from commercially available dried dairy nutraceutical products, including 4 brands of dried colostrum, 2 brands of dried whey, and 1 brand of nonfat dry milk. A culture‐dependent 16S rRNA sequencing approach was utilized to elucidate the identity of individual isolates recovered from each dried dairy product. Approximately 69% of all bacterial isolates were members the genus of Bacillus, while approximately 14% of all bacterial isolates were identified as members of the genus Pseudomonas. Members of the Kocuria, Microbacterium, and Enterococcus genera were identified as well.

Practical Application:  This project investigated the microbial populations inherent in dried commercially available nutraceutical products. Bovine colostrum has been reported to have protective activity against certain viral and bacterial pathogens. This project was designed to identify the bacterial populations within dried dairy nutraceutical products to determine if any species were common to all products and which may impact the reported nutraceutical properties.
A Facile method to Prepare Monodispersed CdS/SiO2 Composite Microspheres and Investigation on Their Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Peng Cheng , Cheng Xinjian , Chen Sufang , Li Xianghong , Li Tingcheng , Zhang Daohong , Huang Zhengxi , Zhang Aiqing
Published: June 2012

This article presents a facile method to prepare CdS/SiO2 composite microspheres and their good catalytic properties. In our method, monodispersed SiO2 particles bearing amino groups (–NH2) were synthesized at first and then used as carriers to load nanosized CdS particles to form CdS/SiO2 composite microspheres. With the addition of CdAc2 solution to the SiO2 dispersion, Cd2+ was attracted to the surfaces of the SiO2 particles through coordination interaction, and then thioacetamide was added to the dispersion. By heating, S2− released and reacted with the Cd2+, CdS/SiO2 composite microspheres were obtained accordingly. The photocatalytic properties of the as‐prepared composite microspheres were investigated as well. It was found that the composite microspheres have excellent photocatalytic activities for the degradation of dyes comparing with the commercial P‐25 TiO2 catalysts. After using and recycling for three times, the photocatalytic performance still remained very well.
Expression of native and mutant extracellular lipases fromYarrowia lipolytica in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Darvishi Farshad
Published: June 2012

Saccharomyces cerevisiae cannot produce extracellular lipase and utilize low‐cost lipid substrates. This study aimed to express extracellular lipase from Yarrowia lipolytica in S. cerevisiae, construct recombinant oily substrate consumer strains, and compare the roles of native and mutant Y. lipolytica extracellular lipases in S. cerevisiae. The LIP2 gene of Y. lipolytica DSM3286 and its mutant Y. lipolytica U6 were isolated and cloned by expression vector in S. cerevisiae. New recombinant S. cerevisiae strains FDS100 containing the native LIP2 gene, and FDS101 containing the mutant LIP2 gene were produced 10 and 15 U ml
−1 extracellular lipase respectively, on a production medium containing olive oil. New recombinant
S. cerevisiae strains produce acceptable amount of extracellular lipase in comparison with Y. lipolytica wild‐type strains. These strains can utilize olive oil and lipids as low‐cost substrates to produce bioethanol, single cell protein and other biotechnologically valuable products. The recombinant S. cerevisiae strain with mutant LIP2 produced lipase with 1.5‐fold higher activity. The LIP2 gene of Y. lipolytica was expressed in S. cerevisiae as a heterologous protein without any modifications. Strong components of the Y. lipolytica expression/secretion system could be used for high‐level production of recombinant proteins in S. cerevisiae.
A BLOC‐1 mutation screen reveals a novel BLOC1S3 mutation in Hermansky–Pudlak Syndrome type 8
Authors: Cullinane Andrew R. , Curry James A. , Golas Gretchen , Pan James , Carmona‐Rivera Carmelo , Hess Richard A. , White James G. , Huizing Marjan , Gahl William A.
Published: June 2012

Hermansky–Pudlak Syndrome (HPS) is a genetically heterogeneous disorder of lysosome‐related organelle biogenesis and is characterized by oculocutaneous albinism and a bleeding diathesis. Over the past decade, we screened 250 patients with HPS‐like symptoms for mutations in the genes responsible for HPS subtypes 1–6. We identified 38 individuals with no functional mutations, and therefore, we analyzed all eight genes encoding the biogenesis of lysosome‐related organelles complex‐1 (BLOC‐1) proteins in these individuals. Here, we describe the identification of a novel nonsense mutation in BLOC1S3 (HPS‐8) in a 6‐yr‐old Iranian boy. This mutation caused nonsense‐mediated decay of BLOC1S3 mRNA and destabilized the BLOC‐1 complex. Our patient’s melanocytes showed aberrant localization of TYRP1, with increased plasma membrane trafficking. These findings confirm a common cellular defect for HPS patients with defects in BLOC‐1 subunits. We identified only two patients with BLOC‐1 defects in our cohort, suggesting that other HPS genes remain to be identified.
Henipaviruses: An Updated Review Focusing on the Pteropid Reservoir and Features of Transmission
Authors: Clayton B. A. , Wang L. F. , Marsh G. A.
Published: June 2012

The henipaviruses, Hendra virus and Nipah virus, are pathogens that have emerged from flying foxes in Australia and South‐east Asia to infect both livestock and humans, often fatally. Since the emergence of Hendra virus in Australia in 1994 and the identification of Australian flying foxes as hosts to this virus, our appreciation of bats as reservoir hosts of henipaviruses has expanded globally to include much of Asia and areas of Africa. Despite this, little is currently known of the mechanisms by which bats harbour viruses capable of causing such severe disease in other terrestrial mammals. Pteropid bat ecology, henipavirus virology, therapeutic developments and features of henipavirus infection, pathology and disease in humans and other mammals are reviewed elsewhere in detail. This review focuses on bats as reservoir hosts to henipaviruses and features of transmission of Hendra virus and Nipah virus following spillover from these reservoir hosts.
Equine Multiple Acyl‐CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MADD) Associated with Seasonal Pasture Myopathy in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Sponseller B.T. , Valberg S.J. , Schultz N.E. , Bedford H. , Wong D.M. , Kersh K. , Shelton G.D.
Published: June 2012

Background

Seasonal pasture myopathy (SPM) is a highly fatal form of nonexertional rhabdomyolysis that occurs in pastured horses in the United States during autumn or spring. In Europe, a similar condition, atypical myopathy (AM), is common. Recently, a defect of lipid metabolism, multiple acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD), has been identified in horses with AM.

Objective

To determine if SPM in the United States is caused by MADD.

Animals

Six horses diagnosed with SPM based on history, clinical signs, and serum creatine kinase activity, or postmortem findings.

Methods

Retrospective descriptive study. Submissions to the Neuromuscular Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Minnesota were reviewed between April 2009 and January 2010 to identify cases of SPM. Inclusion criteria were pastured, presenting with acute nonexertional rhabdomyolysis, and serum, urine, or muscle samples available for analysis. Horses were evaluated for MADD by urine organic acids, serum acylcarnitines, muscle carnitine, or histopathology.

Results

Six horses had clinical signs and, where performed (4/6 horses), postmortem findings consistent with SPM. Affected muscle (4/4) showed degeneration with intramyofiber lipid accumulation, decreased free carnitine concentration, and increased carnitine esters. Serum acylcarnitine profiles (3/3) showed increases in short‐ and medium‐chain acylcarnitines and urinary organic acid profiles (3/3) revealed increased ethylmalonic and methylsuccinic acid levels, and glycine conjugates, consistent with equine MADD.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Similar to AM, the biochemical defect causing SPM is MADD, which causes defective muscular lipid metabolism and excessive myofiber lipid content. Diagnosis can be made by assessing serum acylcarnitine and urine organic acid profiles.
paleotree: an R package for paleontological and phylogenetic analyses of evolution
Authors: Bapst David W.
Published: June 2012

1. paleotree is a library of functions for the R statistical computing environment dedicated to analyses that combine paleontological and phylogenetic data sets, particularly the time‐scaling of phylogenetic trees, which include extinct fossil lineages.

2. The functions included in this library focus on simulating paleontological data sets, measuring sampling rates, time‐scaling cladograms of fossil taxa and plotting historical diversity curves.

3. I describe the capabilities and analytical basis of the functions in paleotree by presenting two examples. The first example showcases the simulation capabilities and plotting the output as diversity curves. The second example demonstrates time‐scaling a cladogram of fossil taxa and estimating sampling rates and completeness from temporal ranges.
Optimization of an Integrated SOFC-Fuel Processing System for Aircraft Propulsion
Authors: Brinson Thomas E. , Ordonez Juan C. , Luongo Cesar A.
Published: June 2012

As fuel cells continue to improve in performance and power densities levels rise, potential applications ensue. System-level performance modeling tools are needed to further the investigation of future applications. One such application is small-scale aircraft propulsion. Both piloted and unmanned fuel cell aircrafts have been successfully demonstrated suggesting the near-term viability of revolutionizing small-scale aviation. Nearly all of the flight demonstrations and modeling efforts are conducted with low temperature fuel cells; however, the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) should not be overlooked. Attributing to their durability and popularity in stationary applications, which require continuous operation, SOFCs are attractive options for long endurance flights. This study presents the optimization of an integrated solid oxide fuel cell-fuel processing system model for performance evaluation in aircraft propulsion. System parameters corresponding to maximum steady state thermal efficiencies for various flight phase power levels were obtained through implementation of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. Optimal values for fuel utilization, air stoichiometric ratio, air bypass ratio, and burner ratio, a four-dimensional optimization problem, were obtained while constraining the SOFC operating temperature to 650–1000 °C. The PSO swarm size was set to 35 particles, and the number of iterations performed for each case flight power level was set at 40. Results indicate the maximum thermal efficiency of the integrated fuel cell-fuel processing system remains in the range of 44–46% throughout descend, loitering, and cruise conditions. This paper discusses a system-level model of an integrated fuel cell-fuel processing system, and presents a methodology for system optimization through the particle swarm algorithm.
Contact Analyses for Anisotropic Half Space: Effect of the Anisotropy on the Pressure Distribution and Contact Area
Authors: Bagault Caroline , Nélias Daniel , Baietto Marie-Christine
Published: June 2012

A contact model using semi-analytical methods, relying on elementary analytical solutions, has been developed. It is based on numerical techniques adapted to contact mechanics, with strong potential for inelastic, inhomogeneous or anisotropic materials. Recent developments aim to quantify displacements and stresses of an anisotropic material contacting both an isotropic or anisotropic material. The influence of symmetry axes on the contact solution will be more specifically analyzed.
Rounded Cutting Edge Model for the Prediction of Bone Sawing Forces
Authors: James Thomas P. , Pearlman John J. , Saigal Anil
Published: June 2012

A new analytical model to predict bone sawing forces is presented. Development of the model was based on the concept of a single tooth sawing at a depth of cut less than the cutting edge radius. A variable friction model was incorporated as well as elastic Hertzian contact stress to determine a lower bound for the integration limits. A new high speed linear apparatus was developed to simulate cutting edge speeds encountered with sagittal and reciprocating bone saws. Orthogonal cutting experiments in bovine cortical bone were conducted for comparison to the model. A design of the experiment’s approach was utilized with linear cutting speeds between 2600 and 6200 mm/s for depths of cut between 2.5 and 10 μm. Resultant forces from the design of experiments were in the range of 8 to 11 N, with higher forces at greater depths of cut. Model predictions for resultant force magnitude were generally within one standard deviation of the measured force. However, the model consistently predicted a thrust to cutting force ratio that was greater than measured. Consequently, resultant force angles predicted by the model were generally 20 deg higher than calculated from experimental thrust and cutting force measurements.
COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS OF TWO PATIENT-SPECIFIC SYSTEMIC TO PULMONARY SHUNTS
Authors: DING JINLI , LIU YOUJUN , CHAI LINJUAN , CAO XUE , WANG FENG
Published: June 2012

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect. For severe cases, inserting a systemic to pulmonary shunt, which distributes part of systemic artery blood into the pulmonary artery, is the preferable palliative surgery. Based on the computed tomography images and three-dimensional geometry technologies, two patient-specific anatomical options of systemic to pulmonary shunts including the aorta to pulmonary shunt (APS) and innominate artery to pulmonary shunt (IPS) have been simulated for computational fluid dynamics. The objective of this study was to predict the hemodynamics within the shunts and confirm, through patient-specific simulations, the shunt with the optimal performance. Results indicated that both options created high velocity gradients and pressure gradients at the proximal end of the shunts. Obvious flow recirculation appeared at the inner region near the proximal end of the shunts. Part of the reverse flow from the descending aorta, left subclavian artery, left carotid artery and innominate artery was driven into the shunts during the diastolic period. The IPS provided better balanced and more adequate blood flow distributions between the systemic and pulmonary circulations. The APS provided slightly excessive pulmonary blood flow which can ultimately result in cardiac failure and pulmonary hypertension.
Orthopedic Considerations in the Pedestrian versus Motor Vehicle Accident Polytrauma Patient
Authors: Samona Jason , Colen Robert
Published: June 2012

Pedestrian versus motor vehicle accidents (PVMVAs) are a common cause of morbidity and mortality around the globe. Past models of PVMVAs assume lower-extremity vehicle contact as the initiating event, with a subsequent predicted injury sequence consisting of a lower extremity injury followed by injury to the body, head, and upper extremities. The term “fatal triad” was first coined by Farley, which described concomitant injuries to the skull, pelvis, and extremity fractures. Over the years, this once well-accepted model of injury has been under scrutiny by numerous orthopedic researchers, and it has lost credibility. This case presentation glaring reveals that the patient incurred which is referred to as the “fatal triad”, in contrast to the commonly circulated thoughts of biodynamic mechanisms of PVMVA fractures. More research in this arena is warranted. This lack of information contributes to the morbidity and mortality associated with such devastating injuries. The overlying theme displayed in the data analyzed in this paper demonstrates the vital importance of the orthopedic surgeon in the management of the PVMVA patient. No matter the particular mechanism of injury, occurrence, or agreed-upon treatment protocol, the role of the orthopedic physician is instrumental to the wellbeing of the PVMVA trauma patient.
IL-18 Serum Level in Adult Onset Still’s Disease: A Marker of Disease Activity
Authors: Colafrancesco Serena , Priori Roberta , Alessandri Cristiano , Perricone Carlo , Pendolino Monica , Picarelli Giovanna , Valesini Guido
Published: June 2012

Introduction. Immunological factors seem to play a pivotal role in Adult Onset Still's Disease (AOSD). Among all, IL-18 cytokine is overexpressed and drives the inflammatory process.Objective. We aimed to investigate the levels of IL-18 in sera of Italian patients with AOSD and to assess its possible role as a marker of disease activity.Methods. IL-18 serum levels were determined by ELISA in 26 Italian patients with AOSD. Disease activity was assessed using Pouchot’s criteria. As controls, 21 patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), 21 patients with Sjogren's Syndrome (SS), 20 patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and 21 healthy subjects (normal human sera, NHS) were evaluated.Results. IL-18 serum levels were significantly higher in patients with active AOSD than in non-active (P=0.001) and control groups (RAP=0.0070, SSP=0.0029, SLEP=0.0032, NHSP=0.0004). A significant correlation between IL-18 serum levels and disease activity (P<0.0001), and laboratory parameters as ferritin (P=0.0127) and C-reactive protein (P=0.0032) was demonstrated.Conclusions. Higher levels of IL-18 are detected in active AODS patients and correlate with disease activity and inflammatory laboratory features. ROC-AUC analysis of the serum concentration of IL-18 suggests that it can be considered a diagnostic marker of AOSD. This paper supports the targeting of this cytokine as a possible therapeutic option in AOSD.
Multi‐State Dependent Impulsive Control for Holling I Predator‐Prey Model
Authors: Cheng Huidong , Wang Fang , Zhang Tongqian
Published: June 2012

According to the different effects of biological and chemical control, we propose a model for Holling I functional response predator‐prey system concerning pest control which adopts different control methods at different thresholds. By using differential equation geometry theory and the method of successor functions, we prove that the existence of order one periodic solution of such system and the attractiveness of the order one periodic solution by sequence convergence rules and qualitative analysis. Numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate the feasibility of our main results which show that our method used in this paper is more efficient and easier than the existing ones for proving the existence of order one periodic solution.
Medical Education in the 21st Century: Students Driving the Global Agenda
Authors: Singh S. , McCool J. , Weller J. , Woodward A.
Published: June 2012

This descriptive article examines the potential for student-led initiatives in international health to be better integrated with formal medical education systems. Students have embraced the challenges and opportunities provided by globalisation to take a leadership role on international issues. Medical students are involved with a diverse portfolio of international activities, including work to internationalise the medical curriculum, the establishment of “hands-on” development projects, efforts to promote student exchanges, and engagement with high-level international policy fora. Such experiences not only add to the personal and professional development of the individual student, but also have the potential to contribute to the academic environment of the host institution as well as more broadly influencing the determinants of international health outcomes. There are challenges and risks associated with independent student initiatives, however these risks can be mitigated if institutions work in partnership with their students and peers internationally.
Development of 5-SubstitutedN-Methylmorphinan-6-ones as Potent Opioid Analgesics with Improved Side-Effect Profile
Authors: Schmidhammer Helmut , Spetea Mariana
Published: June 2012

One of the most important functions of the opioid system is the control of pain. Among the three main opioid receptor classes (μ,δ,κ), theμ(MOR) is the main type targeted for pharmacotherapy of pain. Opioid analgesics such as morphine, oxycodone and fentanyl are agonists at the MOR and are the mainstay for the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain. However, adverse effects related to opioid use are severe and often lead to early discontinuation and inadequate analgesia. The development of more effective and safer medications for the management of pain still remains a major direction in pharmaceutical research. Chemical approaches towards the identification of novel MOR analgesics with reduced side effects include structural modifications of 14-alkoxy-N-methylmorphinan-6-ones in key positions that are important for binding, selectivity, potency, and efficacy at opioid receptors. This paper describes a representative strategy to improve the therapeutic usefulness of opioid analgesics from the morphinan class of drugs by targeting position 5. The focus is on chemical and biological studies and structure-activity relationships of this series of ligands. We report on 14-alkoxymorphinan-6-ones having a methyl and benzyl group at position 5 as strong opioid antinociceptive agents with reduced propensity to cause undesired effects compared to morphine although interacting selectively with MORs.
Foraging Activity of Native Ants on Trees in Forest Fragments Colonized by the Invasive AntLasius neglectus
Authors: Paris C. , Espadaler X.
Published: June 2012

Our aim was to investigate the foraging activity of native ants on tree trunks in accordance with their location in forest fragments and the presence or absence of the invasive antLasius neglectus. Trees were categorized as isolated, edge, or core trees according to their location in forest fragments. In invaded fragments,Lasius neglectushad the highest spatial-temporal tree visitation. Isolated trees were visited more and for a longer time by this invasive ant. Invaded fragments had low native ant activity on trees compared to fragments withoutL. neglectus. The few encountered native ant species showed a lower frequency of visitation and for less time in comparison with their spatial-temporal visitation in control fragments.Crematogaster scutellarisandTemnothorax lichtensteinivisited all tree categories in both fragments (invaded or control) butLasius grandisstayed for longer on isolated trees from control fragments. We conclude that in fragments invaded byLasius neglectus, the richness of native ant foraging on trees was negatively affected. Isolated trees close to roads could act as dispersal stepping stones forLasius neglectus.
Implicit Mann Type Iteration Method Involving Strictly Hemicontractive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Rafiq Arif , Kang Shin Min
Published: June 2012

We proved that the modified implicit Mann iteration process can be applied to approximate the fixed point of strictly hemicontractive mappings in smooth Banach spaces.
G-CSF-Associated Bone Marrow Necrosis in AML after Induction Chemotherapy
Authors: Osuorji Ikenna , Goldman Lyle
Published: June 2012

Bone marrow necrosis (BMN) is defined as necrosis of the myeloid tissues and stroma without involvement of the cortical bone. We report a case of 66-year-old male with AML-M4 (FAB classification) who was given induction chemotherapy with cytarabine and daunorubicin. Filgrastim at 480 micrograms was administered on days 15–19 to shorten the duration of neutropenia. Consequently patient developed severe pelvic bone pain, leukoerythroblastosis, and severe leukocytosis. Repeat bone marrow aspiration and biopsy on day 21 confirmed bone marrow necrosis. These manifestations responded quickly to discontinuation of filgrastim. Subsequently, he recovered full myelopoiesis. We suggest that there may be more cases of BMN associated with G-CSF that are undiagnosed.
Serum Galactose-Deficient IgA1 Level Is Not Associated with Proteinuria in Children with IgA Nephropathy
Authors: Hastings M. Colleen , Afshan Sabahat , Sanders John T. , Kane Oulimata , Eison T. Matthew , Lau Keith K. , Moldoveanu Zina , Julian Bruce A. , Novak Jan , Wyatt Robert J.
Published: June 2012

Introduction. Percentage of galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) relative to total IgA in serum was recently reported to correlate with proteinuria at time of sampling and during follow-up for pediatric and adult patients with IgA nephropathy. We sought to determine whether this association exists in another cohort of pediatric patients with IgA nephropathy.Methods. Subjects were younger than 18 years at entry. Blood samples were collected on one or more occasions for determination of serum total IgA and Gd-IgA1. Gd-IgA1 was expressed as serum level and percent of total IgA. Urinary protein/creatinine ratio was calculated for random specimens. Spearman’s correlation coefficients assessed the relationship between study variables.Results. The cohort had 29 Caucasians and 11 African-Americans with a male : female ratio of 1.9 : 1. Mean age at diagnosis was 11.7 ± 3.7 years. No statistically significant correlation was identified between serum total IgA, Gd-IgA1, or percent Gd-IgA1 versus urinary protein/creatinine ratio determined contemporaneously with biopsy or between average serum Gd-IgA1 or average percent Gd-IgA1 and time-average urinary protein/creatinine ratio.Conclusion. The magnitude of proteinuria in this cohort of pediatric patients with IgA nephropathy was influenced by factors other than Gd-IgA1 level, consistent with the proposed multi-hit pathogenetic pathways for this renal disease.
Align Ag Nanorods via Oxidation Reduction Growth Using RF‐Sputtering
Authors: Hu Zhan-Shuo , Hung Fei-Yi , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Hsieh Wei-Kang , Chen Kuan-Jen
Published: June 2012

Silver nanorod arrays grew on the individual metallic silver particles after the thermal decomposition of the silver oxides. The formation of silver oxide came from the input of oxygen during sputtering. The subsequent growth of the Ag nanorods started from the single silver grain that originated from the decomposition caused by thermal reduction. This method for oxidation reduction growth used no catalysts and improved the interface effect for the lattice match. Photoluminescence of Ag nanorods was detected at 2.17 eV.
Binge Eating Disorder Mediates Links between Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Caloric Intake in Overweight and Obese Women
Authors: Peterson Roseann E. , Latendresse Shawn J. , Bartholome Lindsay T. , Warren Cortney S. , Raymond Nancy C.
Published: June 2012

Despite considerable comorbidity between mood disorders, binge eating disorder (BED), and obesity, the underlying mechanisms remain unresolved. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine models by which internalizing behaviors of depression and anxiety influence food intake in overweight/obese women. Thirty-two women (15 BED, 17 controls) participated in a laboratory eating-episode and completed questionnaires assessing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Path analysis was used to test mediation and moderation models to determine the mechanisms by which internalizing symptoms influenced kilocalorie (kcal) intake. The BED group endorsed significantly more symptoms of depression (10.1 versus 4.8,P=0.005) and anxiety (8.5 versus 2.7,P=0.003). Linear regression indicated that BED diagnosis and internalizing symptoms accounted for 30% of the variance in kcal intake. Results from path analysis suggested that BED mediates the influence of internalizing symptoms on total kcal intake (empiricalP<0.001). The associations between internalizing symptoms and food intake are best described as operating indirectly through a BED diagnosis. This suggests that symptoms of depression and anxiety influence whether one engages in binge eating, which influences kcal intake. Greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying the associations between mood, binge eating, and food intake will facilitate the development of more effective prevention and treatment strategies for both BED and obesity.
For the Pet Care Appliance of Location Aware Infrastructure on Cyber Physical System
Authors: Own Chung-Ming
Published: June 2012

“Technology stems from humanity.” This sentence is a good description of modern life. The interaction between humans and physical devices and objects in the real world is gaining more attention and requires a natural and intuitive methodology to employ. Cyber physical systems refer to a new generation of systems that integrate computational and physical capabilities and are capable of interacting with humans through many new modalities. Thus, this study examines the ability of computation, communication, and control technologies to improve human interaction with pets. This study proposes a mobility-aware algorithm to enable digital home technology for pets and implements the proposed system to prove that it meets the needs of pet owners.
Glutathione in Cerebral Microvascular Endothelial Biology and Pathobiology: Implications for Brain Homeostasis
Authors: Li Wei , Busu Carmina , Circu Magdalena L. , Aw Tak Yee
Published: June 2012

The integrity of the vascular endothelium of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is central to cerebrovascular homeostasis. Given the function of the BBB as a physical and metabolic barrier that buffers the systemic environment, oxidative damage to the endothelial monolayer will have significant deleterious impact on the metabolic, immunological, and neurological functions of the brain. Glutathione (GSH) is a ubiquitous major thiol within mammalian cells that plays important roles in antioxidant defense, oxidation-reduction reactions in metabolic pathways, and redox signaling. The existence of distinct GSH pools within the subcellular organelles supports an elegant mode for independent redox regulation of metabolic processes, including those that control cell fate. GSH-dependent homeostatic control of neurovascular function is relatively unexplored. Significantly, GSH regulation of two aspects of endothelial function is paramount to barrier preservation, namely, GSH protection against oxidative endothelial cell injury and GSH control of postdamage cell proliferation in endothelial repair and/or wound healing. This paper highlights our current insights and hypotheses into the role of GSH in cerebral microvascular biology and pathobiology with special focus on endothelial GSH and vascular integrity, oxidative disruption of endothelial barrier function, GSH regulation of endothelial cell proliferation, and the pathological implications of GSH disruption in oxidative stress-associated neurovascular disorders, such as diabetes and stroke.
Targeting Antibodies to Carbon Nanotube Field Effect Transistors by Pyrene Hydrazide Modification of Heavy Chain Carbohydrates
Authors: Stefansson Steingrimur , Kwon Hena H. , Ahn Saeyoung Nate
Published: June 2012

Many carbon nanotube field-effect transistor (CNT-FET) studies have used immobilized antibodies as the ligand binding moiety. However, antibodies are not optimal for CNT-FET detection due to their large size and charge. Their size can prevent ligands from reaching within the Debye length of the CNTs and a layer of charged antibodies on the circuits can drown out any ligand signal. In an attempt to minimize the antibody footprint on CNT-FETs, we examined whether pyrene hydrazide modification of antibody carbohydrates could reduce the concentration required to functionalize CNT circuits. The carbohydrates are almost exclusively on the antibody Fc region and this site-specific modification could mediate uniform antibody orientation on the CNTs. We compared the hydrazide modification of anti-E. coliO157:H7 polyclonal antibodies to pyrenebutanoic acid succinimidyl ester-coated CNTs and carbodiimide-mediated antibody CNT attachment. Our results show that the pyrene hydrazide modification was superior to those methods with respect to bacteria detection and less than 1 nM labeled antibody was required to functionalize the circuits.
Human Biomonitoring of Engineered Nanoparticles: An Appraisal of Critical Issues and Potential Biomarkers
Authors: Bergamaschi Enrico
Published: June 2012

The present paper deals with the applicability of biological monitoring to the assessment of exposure and possible effects deriving from exposure to engineered nanomaterials (NM). After establishing a conceptual framework in which human biomonitoring should be placed, the paper reviews the critical issues related to the unusual properties of NM affecting the implementation of biomonitoring activities for this new class of chemicals. Relying on the recent advances in the toxicogenomic, it is possible to assess whether specific biological pathways are activated or perturbed by specific NM. However, to evaluate if quantitative changes in these biomarkers can be used as indicators or predictors for toxicity in humans, validation on well characterised groups of exposed people is needed. At present, it appears more pragmatic to evolve NM‐associated biomarker identification considering relevant biological responses found in environmental and occupational studies and assessing the early events associated with exposure to these NM. The battery of biochemical markers includes soluble molecules, antioxidant capacity, peroxidated lipids and carbonyl groups in serum proteins as a biomarkers of systemic inflammation and vascular adhesion molecules to assess endothelial activation/damage. Abnormalities in exhaled breath condensate chemistry reflecting intrinsic changes in the airway lining fluid and lung inflammation seem promising tools suitable for BM studies and are broadly discussed.
MicroRNAs in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Other Blood Disorders
Authors: Yuan Yao , Kasar Siddha , Underbayev Chingiz , Prakash Sindhuri , Raveche Elizabeth
Published: June 2012

Common blood disorders include hematopoietic cell malignancies or leukemias and plasma cell dyscrasia, all of which have associated microRNA abnormalities. In this paper, we discuss several leukemias including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and identify altered microRNAs and their targets. Immune disorders with altered blood levels of antibodies include autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with associated anti-self-autoantibodies and immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) also have related microRNA abnormalities. The alterations in microRNAs may serve as therapeutic targets in these blood disorders.
Comparative Medical Ethnobotany of the Senegalese Community Living in Turin (Northwestern Italy) and in Adeane (Southern Senegal)
Authors: Ellena Rachele , Quave Cassandra L. , Pieroni Andrea
Published: June 2012

A medico-ethnobotanical survey was conducted among the Senegalese migrant communities of Turin (Piedmont, NW Italy) and their peers living in Adeane (Casamance, Southern Senegal), both among healers and laypeople. Through 27 in-depth interviews, 71 medicinal plant taxa were recorded and identified in Adeane and 41 in Turin, for a total of 315 different folk remedies recorded in Senegal and 62 in Turin. The large majority of the medicinal plants recorded among Senegalese migrants in Turin were also used in their country of origin. These findings demonstrate the resilience of home remedies among migrants and consequently the role they should have in shaping public health policies devoted to migrant groups in Western Countries, which seek to seriously take into account culturally sensitive approaches, that is, emic health-seeking strategies.
Assessment of the Quality of Newly Formed Bone around Titanium Alloy Implants by Using X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Nakada Hiroshi , Sakae Toshiro , Tanimoto Yasuhiro , Teranishi Mari , Kato Takao , Watanabe Takehiro , Saeki Hiroyuki , Kawai Yasuhiko , LeGeros Racquel Z.
Published: June 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in bones quality between newly formed bone and cortical bone formed around titanium alloy implants by using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As a result of narrow scan measurement at 4 weeks, the newly formed bone of C1s, P2p, O1s, and Ca2p were observed at a different peak range and strength compared with a cortical bone. At 8 weeks, the peak range and strength of newly formed bone were similar to those of cortical bone at C1s, P2p, and Ca2p, but not O1s. The results from this analysis indicate that the peaks and quantities of each element of newly formed bone were similar to those of cortical bone at 8 weeks, suggestive of a strong physicochemical resemblance.
Induction of Cellular Immune Response by DNA Vaccine CoexpressingE. acervulina3-1E Gene and Mature CHIl-15 Gene
Authors: Ma Dexing , Ma Chunli , Gao Mingyang , Li Guangxing , Niu Ze , Huang Xiaodan
Published: June 2012

We previously reported that the chimeric DNA vaccine pcDNA-3-1E-linker-mChIL-15, fused through linkingEimeria acervulina3-1E encoding gene and mature chicken IL-15 (mChIL-15) gene with four flexible amino acid SPGS, could significantly offer protection against homologous challenge. In the present study, the induction of cellular immune response induced by the chimeric DNA vaccine pcDNA-3-1E-linker-mChIL-15 was investigated. Spleen lymphocyte subpopulations were characterized by flow cytometric analysis. The spleen lymphocyte proliferation assays were measured by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-y1]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The mRNA profiles of ChIL-2 and ChIFN-γ in spleen were characterized by means of real-time PCR. Chickens immunized with pcDNA-3-1E-linker-mChIL-15 exhibited significant upregulated level of ChIL-2 and ChIFN-γ transcripts in spleen following two immunizations compared with chickens in other groups (P<0.01). In comparison with pcDNA3.1-immunized and control groups, lymphocyte proliferation, percentage of CD8α+cell, and levels of ChIL-2 and ChIFN-γ transcripts in the group immunized with pcDNA-3-1E-linker-mChIL-15 were significantly increased on day 6 following challenge (P<0.05,P<0.01, andP<0.01, resp.). Our data suggested that the fusion antigen 3-1E-linker-mChIL-15 could be a potential candidate forE. acervulinavaccine development.
Emerging PPARγ-Independent Role of PPARγLigands in Lung Diseases
Authors: Kulkarni Ajit A. , Woeller Collynn F. , Thatcher Thomas H. , Ramon Sesquile , Phipps Richard P. , Sime Patricia J.
Published: June 2012

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)-γis a nuclear hormone receptor that is activated by multiple agonists including thiazolidinediones, prostaglandins, and synthetic oleanolic acids. Many PPARγligands are under investigation as potential therapies for human diseases. These ligands modulate multiple cellular pathways via both PPARγ-dependent and PPARγ-independent mechanisms. Here, we review the role of PPARγand PPARγligands in lung disease, with emphasis on PPARγ-independent effects. PPARγligands show great promise in moderating lung inflammation, as antiproliferative agents in combination to enhance standard chemotherapy in lung cancer and as treatments for pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive fatal disease with no effective therapy. Some of these effects occur when PPARγis pharmaceutically antagonized or genetically PPARγand are thus independent of classical PPARγ-dependent transcriptional control. Many PPARγligands demonstrate direct binding to transcription factors and other proteins, altering their function and contributing to PPARγ-independent inhibition of disease phenotypes. These PPARγ-independent mechanisms are of significant interest because they suggest new therapeutic uses for currently approved drugs and because they can be used as probes to identify novel proteins and pathways involved in the pathogenesis or treatment of disease, which can then be targeted for further investigation and drug development.
Effects of IGF-1 onIKandIK1Channels via PI3K/Akt Signaling in Neonatal Cardiac Myocytes
Authors: Millis Richard M. , Alvin Zikiar V. , Zhao Aiqiu , Haddad Georges E.
Published: June 2012

Previous studies suggest that sarcolemmal potassium currents play important roles in cardiac hypertrophy. IGF-1 contributes to cardiac hypertrophy via activation of PI3K/Akt signaling. However, the relationships between IGF-1, PI3K/Akt signaling and sarcolemmal potassium currents remain unknown. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that IGF-1 and PI3K/Akt signaling, independently, decrease sarcolemmal potassium currents in cardiac myocytes of neonatal rats. We compared the delayed outward rectifier (IK) and the inward rectifier (IK) current densities resulting from IGF-1 treatments to those resulting from simulation of PI3K/Akt signaling using adenoviral (Ad) BD110 and wild-type Akt and to those resulting from inhibition of PI3K signaling by LY294002. Ad.BD110 and Ad.Akt decreasedIKand these decrements were attenuated by LY 294002. The IGF-1 treatments decreased bothIKandIK1but only theIKdecrement was attenuated by LY294002. These findings demonstrate that IGF-1 may contribute to cardiac hypertrophy by PI3K/Akt signal transduction mechanisms in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. Failure of LY294002 to effectively antagonize IGF-1 induced decrements inIK1suggests that a signal pathway adjunct to PI3K/Akt contributes to IGF-1 protection against arrhythmogenesis in these myocytes. Our findings imply that sarcolemmal outward and inward rectifier potassium channels are substrates for IGF-1/PI3K/Akt signal transduction molecules.
1st International Symposium on Gait and Balance in MS: Gait and Balance Measures in the Evaluation of People with MS
Authors: Cameron Michelle , Wagner Joanne , Zackowski Kathleen , Spain Rebecca
Published: June 2012

Gait and balance measures have particular potential as outcome measures in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) because, of the many hallmarks of MS disability, gait and balance dysfunction are present throughout the course of the disease, impact many aspects of a person’s life, and progress over time. To highlight the importance and relevance of gait and balance measures in MS, explore novel measurements of gait and balance in MS, and discuss how gait, balance, and fall measures can best be used and developed in clinical and research settings, the 1st International Symposium on Gait and Balance in Multiple Sclerosis was held in Portland, Oregon, USA on October 1, 2011. This meeting brought together nearly 100 neurologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, engineers, and others to discuss the current status and recent advances in the measurement of gait and balance in MS. Presentations focused on clinician-administered, self-administered, and instrumented measures of gait, balance, and falls in MS.