bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of X-Inactivation Status and Cytogenetic Stability of Human Dermal Fibroblasts after Long-Term Culture
Authors: Xue Zhi-Gang , Shi Zhan-Ping , Dong Juan , Liao Ting-Ting , Wang Yan-Peng , Sun Xue-Ping , Yan Zheng-Jie , Qian Xiao-Qiao , Cui Yu-Gui , Chen Juan , Liu Jia-Yin , Fan Guoping
Published: December 2010

Human primary fibroblasts are a popular type of somatic cells for the production of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Here we characterized biological properties of primary fibroblasts in terms of cell-growth rate, cytogenetic stability, and the number of inactive X chromosomes during long-term passaging. We produced eight lines of female human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and found normal karyotype and expected pattern of X chromosome inactivation (XCI) at low passages (Passage P1-5). However, four out of the eight HDF lines at high passage numbers (≥P10) exhibited duplicated hallmarks of inactive X chromosome including two punctuate signals of histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) and X inactive-specific transcript (XIST) RNA signals in approximately 8.5–18.5% of the cells. Our data suggest that the copy number of inactive X chromosomes in a subset of female HDF is increased by a two-fold. Consistently, DNA fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) identified 3-4 copies of X chromosomes in one nucleus in this subset of cells with two inactive Xs. We conclude that female HDF cultures exhibit a higher risk of genetic anomalies such as carrying an increased number of X chromosomes including both active and inactive X chromosomes at a high passage (≥P10).
UK Guidelines for the Management of Bone Sarcomas
Authors: Grimer Robert , Athanasou Nick , Gerrand Craig , Judson Ian , Lewis Ian , Morland Bruce , Peake David , Seddon Beatrice , Whelan Jeremy
Published: December 2010

These guidelines have been developed in order to provide an overview and a set of broad-based key recommendations for the management of patients with bone sarcomas in the UK. They have taken into consideration the most up-to-date scientific literature along with the recent recommendations by the European Society of Medical Oncology. The principles of the NICE guidance on both “improving outcomes for patients with sarcomas” and “improving outcomes with children and young people with cancer” have been incorporated. As care evolves, it is acknowledged that these guidelines will need updating. The key recommendations are that bone pain or a palpable mass should always lead to further investigation and patients with clinicoradiological findings suggestive of a primary bone tumour should be sent to a reference centre. Patients should then have their care managed at such a specialist centre by a fully accredited multidisciplinary team.
Changes in Glucose and Glutamine Lymphocyte Metabolisms Induced by Type I Interferon α
Authors: Navarro Francisco , Bacurau Aline V. N. , Vanzelli Andréa , Meneguello-Coutinho Marcela , Uchida Marco C. , Moraes Milton R. , Almeida Sandro S. , Wasinski Frederick , Barros Carlos C. , Würtele Martin , Araújo Ronaldo C. , Costa Rosa Luís F. B. , Bacurau Reury F. P.
Published: December 2010

In lymphocytes (LY), the well-documented antiproliferative effects of IFN-α are associated with inhibition of protein synthesis, decreased amino acid incorporation, and cell cycle arrest. However, the effects of this cytokine on the metabolism of glucose and glutamine in these cells have not been well investigated. Thus, mesenteric and spleen LY of male Wistar rats were cultured in the presence or absence of IFN-α, and the changes on glucose and glutamine metabolisms were investigated. The reduced proliferation of mesenteric LY was accompanied by a reduction in glucose total consumption (35%), aerobic glucose metabolism (55%), maximal activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (49%), citrate synthase activity (34%), total glutamine consumption (30%), aerobic glutamine consumption (20.3%) and glutaminase activity (56%). In LY isolated from spleen, IFNα also reduced the proliferation and impaired metabolism. These data demonstrate that in LY, the antiproliferative effects of IFNα are associated with a reduction in glucose and glutamine metabolisms.
Hyers‐Ulam Stability of the Delay Equationy′(t) =λy(t−τ)
Authors: Jung Soon-Mo , Brzdęk Janusz
Published: December 2010

We investigate the approximate solutionsy: [−τ,∞) →ℝof the delay differential equationy′(t) =λy(t−τ)(t∈ [0, ∞)) with an initial condition, whereλ> 0 andτ> 0 are real constants. We show that they can be “approximated” by solutions of the equation that are constant on the interval [−τ, 0] and, therefore, have quite simple forms. Our results correspond to the notion of stability introduced by Ulam and Hyers.
Risk Factors for Radiographic Tibiofemoral Knee Osteoarthritis: The Wuchuan Osteoarthritis Study
Authors: Lin Jianhao , Li Rujun , Kang Xiaozheng , Li Hu
Published: December 2010

Objective. To investigate the risk factors of radiographic tibiafemoral knee osteoarthritis (OA).Methods. A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Wuchuan County. A questionnaire and bilateral weight-bearing posterior-anterior semi-flexed knee radiographs were completed and read for Kellgren and Lawrence (K/L) grade and joint space narrowing (JSN; 0–3 scale) in each compartment. An logistic regression analysis was performed for radiographic tibiafemoral, lateral compartment, and medial compartment knee OA, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.Results. Age, sex, and knee injury were strongly associated with tibiafemoral, lateral and medial compartment knee OA. BMI also had a dose-response relationship with them. Physical activity level, and physical activity exposure at work, not significantly though, were associated with an elevated risk for this three kinds of knee OA.Conclusions. Physical activity exposure increased the risk of knee OA. It was likely to be the heavier physical activity in Wuchuan osteoarthritis study that counteracted the BMI gap compared with the Beijing and the Framingham OA study. We verified that Chinese had a more valgus alignment of the knee compared with Caucasian population, and this provide a possible explanation why Chinese have a higher prevalence of lateral compartment OA.
Nanoporosity of Alumina Surfaces Induces Different Patterns of Activation in Adhering Monocytes/Macrophages
Authors: Ferraz Natalia , Hong Jaan , Santin Matteo , Karlsson Ott Marjam
Published: December 2010

The present study shows that alumina nanotopography affects monocyte/macrophage behavior. Human mononuclear cells cultured on alumina membranes with pore diameters of 20 and 200 nm were evaluated in terms of cell adhesion, viability, morphology, and release of proinflammatory cytokines. After 24 hours, cell adhesion was assessed by means of light microscopy and cell viability by measuring LDH release. The inflammatory response was evaluated by quantifying interleukin-1βand tumour necrosis factor-α. Finally, scanning electron microscopy was used to study cell morphology. Results showed pronounced differences in cell number, morphology, and cytokine release depending on the nanoporosity. Few but highly activated cells were found on the 200 nm porous alumina, while relatively larger number of cells were found on the 20 nm porous surface. However, despite their larger number, the cells adhering on the 20 nm surface exhibited reduced pro-inflammatory activity. The data of this paper implies that nanotopography could be exploited for controlling the inflammatory response to implants.
Towards a Systems Approach in the Genetic Analysis of Archaea: Accelerating Mutant Construction and Phenotypic Analysis inHaloferax volcanii
Authors: Blaby Ian K. , Phillips Gabriela , Blaby-Haas Crysten E. , Gulig Kevin S. , El Yacoubi Basma , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie
Published: December 2010

With the availability of a genome sequence and increasingly sophisticated genetic tools,Haloferax volcaniiis becoming a model for both Archaea and halophiles. In order forH. volcaniito reach a status equivalent toEscherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, orSaccharomyces cerevisiae, a gene knockout collection needs to be constructed in order to identify the archaeal essential gene set and enable systematic phenotype screens. A streamlined gene-deletion protocol adapted for potential automation was implemented and used to generate 22H. volcaniideletion strains and identify several potentially essential genes. These gene deletion mutants, generated in this and previous studies, were then analyzed in a high-throughput fashion to measure growth rates in different media and temperature conditions. We conclude that these high-throughput methods are suitable for a rapid investigation of anH. volcaniimutant library and suggest that they should form the basis of a larger genome-wide experiment.
An Open-Label, Noncomparative, Multicenter Study to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of NASHA/Dx Gel as a Bulking Agent for the Treatment of Fecal Incontinence
Authors: Dodi Giuseppe , Jongen Johannes , de la Portilla Fernando , Raval Manoj , Altomare Donato F. , Lehur Paul-Antoine
Published: December 2010

Fecal incontinence (FI) is the involuntary loss of rectal contents through the anal canal. Reports of its prevalence vary from 1–21%. Studies, have demonstrated a positive effect on FI symptoms with injectable bulking agents. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of NASHA/Dx gel in the treatment of FI. One hundred fifteen eligible patients suffering from FI received 4 injections of 1 mL NASHA/Dx gel. Primary efficacy was based on data from 86 patients that completed the study. This study demonstrated a ≥50% reduction from baseline in the number of FI episodes in 57.1% of patients at 6 months, and 64.0% at 12 months. Significant improvements (P<.001) were also noted in total number of both solid and loose FI episodes, FI free days, CCFIS, and FIQL scores in all 4 domains. The majority of the treatment related AEs (94.9%) were mild or moderate intensity, and (98.7%) of AEs resolved spontaneously, or following treatment, without sequelae. Results of this study indicate NASHA/Dx gel was efficacious in the treatment of FI. Treatment effect was significant both in reduction of number of FI episodes and disease specific quality of life at 6 months and lasted up to 12 months after treatment.
Preliminary Characterization of the Transcriptional Response of the Porcine Intestinal Cell Line IPEC-J2 to EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli,Escherichia coli, andE. coliLipopolysaccharide
Authors: Geens Marisa M. , Niewold Theo A.
Published: December 2010

IPEC-J2, a promisingin vitromodel system, is not well characterized especially on the transcriptional level, in contrast to human counterparts. The aim of this study was to characterize the gene expression in IPEC-J2 cells when coincubated with enterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC), nonpathogenicE. coli, andE. coliendotoxin. Apical infection of polarized IPEC-J2 monolayers caused a time-dependent decrease in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). Microarray analysis showed up-regulation of interleukins when IPEC-J2 were cocultured withE. colistrains this has so far never been measured in this cell line. Highest IL8 expression was found with the ETEC strain possessing the F4 fimbrium, suggesting IPEC-J2 cells to be F4 receptor positive, confirmed in a brush border membrane adhesion assay. It is concluded that the innate immune responses to pathogens and LPS makes the IPEC-J2 cell line a suitable model for research on intestinal host pathogen interaction.
Molecular Structure and Electronic Properties of Porphyrin-Thiophene-Perylene Using Quantum Chemical Calculation
Authors: Chokbunpiam Tatiya , Thamyongkit Patchanita , Saengsawang Oraphan , Hannongbua Supot
Published: December 2010

This study aimed to design a new series of compounds consisting of a porphyrin macrocycle linked to a perylene unit via a thiophenic bridge. The structural and electronic properties of the molecules, and the effects of mono- and di-substituents R on C3and R′on C4of the thiophene ring were investigated using a quantum calculation approach. The results from the method validation revealed that using the density functional theory approach at B3LYP/6–31G(d) data set was the optimal one, considering the accuracy attained and maintaining the computer time required within tractable limits. The results from the B3LYP/6–31G(d) approach indicated that significant changes of the torsion angle between the molecular planes of the porphyrin and perylene rings, compared to that of the unsubstituted derivatives, were found in the di-substituted systems bearing R = R′= −OCH3and −NH2, and in a mono-substituted system having R = −H and R′=−NH2. The symmetric di-substitution does not provide a significantly lower HOMO-LUMO energy gap (ΔEg). Noticeable decreases inΔEgwere found only with the substitution patterns of: R, R′= −OCH3, −H; −OH, −H; −N(CH3)2, −H; −H, −NH2. UV-visible spectra of all derivatives exhibited characteristic absorption maxima of the free bases of porphyrin and perylene.
IL23RandIL12BSNPs and Haplotypes Strongly Associate with Crohn's Disease Risk in a New Zealand Population
Authors: Ferguson Lynnette R. , Han Dug Yeo , Fraser Alan G. , Huebner Claudia , Lam Wen Jiun , Morgan Angharad R.
Published: December 2010

DNA samples from 339 Crohn's disease (CD) and 407 randomly selected controls from the Auckland (New Zealand) IBD project, were genotyped for five common single nucleotide polymorphisms inIL-23R(rs11805303, rs7517847, rs1343151, rs11209026, and rs10889677) and two inIL-12B(rs1363670 and rs6887695). While theIL-12Bvariants did not show an overall association and otherIL23Rvariants led to minor changes in the risk of CD, rs1343151 and/or rs7517847 variants in theIL-23Rgene strongly reduced the risk of developing CD at both allelic and genotype levels. A significantly decreased risk of first diagnosis of childhood CD was observed in individuals carrying the A allele of rs1343151, or between 17–40 y in individuals carrying the G allele in rs7517847 ofIL-23R. A significantly decreased risk of ileocolonic or structuring disease was observed in individuals carrying the A allele in either rs11209026 or rs1343151, or the G allele in rs7517847 ofIL-23R, and when such individuals did develop the disease, they were unlikely to require a bowel resection. Certain haplotypes very strongly modified risk. There was evidence for interactions ofIL-23Rvariants with theNOD2wild-type (d/d) genotype. Down-regulating the function of theIL-23Rgene may decrease CD risk in the normal population.
Reconfigurable Multiprocessor Systems: A Review
Authors: Dorta Taho , Jiménez Jaime , Martín José Luis , Bidarte Unai , Astarloa Armando
Published: December 2010

Modern digital systems demand increasing electronic resources, so the multiprocessor platforms are a suitable solution for them. This approach provides better results in terms of area, speed, and power consumption compared to traditional uniprocessor digital systems. Reconfigurable multiprocessor systems are a particular type of embedded system, implemented using reconfigurable hardware. This paper presents a review of this emerging research area. A number of state-of-the-art systems published in this field are presented and classified. Design methods and challenges are also discussed. Advances in FPGA technology are leading to more powerful systems in terms of processing and flexibility. Flexibility is one of the strong points of this kind of system, and multiprocessor systems can even be reconfigured at run time, allowing hardware to be adjusted to the demands of the application.
Induction of Metastatic Gastric Cancer by Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorδ Activation
Authors: Pollock Claire B. , Rodriguez Olga , Martin Philip L. , Albanese Chris , Li Xin , Kopelovich Levy , Glazer Robert I.
Published: December 2010

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorδ (PPARδ) regulates a multiplicity of physiological processes associated with glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammation, and proliferation. One or more of these processes likely create risk factors associated with the ability of PPARδ agonists to promote tumorigenesis in some organs. In the present study, we describe a new gastric tumor mouse model that is dependent on the potent and highly selective PPARδ agonist GW501516 following carcinogen administration. The progression of gastric tumorigenesis was rapid as determined by magnetic resonance imaging and resulted in highly metastatic squamous cell carcinomas of the forestomach within two months. Tumorigenesis was associated with gene expression signatures indicative of cell adhesion, invasion, inflammation, and metabolism. Increased PPARδ expression in tumors correlated with increased PDK1, Akt, β-catenin, and S100A9 expression. The rapid development of metastatic gastric tumors in this model will be useful for evaluating preventive and therapeutic interventions in this disease.
Preparative Separation and Enrichment of Syringopicroside fromFolium syringaeLeaves with Macroporous Resins
Authors: Liu Xin , Wang Jianming , Zhou Changxin , Gan Lishe
Published: December 2010

Syringopicroside is the major constituent inFolium syringaeleaves with known pharmacological activities. In this study, a simple method for preparative separation of syringopicroside fromF. syringaeleaves with macroporous resins was developed. Adsorption characteristics of syringopicroside on six types of macroporous resins, including ADS-8, ADS-17, D141, NKA-9, HPD450, and HPD600, have been compared, among which D141 resin showed the best adsorption and desorption capacities for syringopicroside. Adsorption isotherms were used to D141 resin at different temperatures and fitted well to Langmuir and Freundlich equations. Dynamic adsorption and desorption tests were performed on D141 resin-packed column to optimize the separation process of syringopicroside. After one run with D141 resin, the content of syringopicroside was increased 24-fold from 2.32% to 55.74% with a recovery yield of 92.16%. The chromatographic process optimized in this work avoids toxic organic solvent and, thus, is a promising basis for large-scale preparation of syringopicroside.
Vibration Characteristics of Hydrodynamic Fluid Film Pocket Journal Bearings
Authors: Feng N. S. , Hahn E. J.
Published: December 2010

Theoretical analyses of hydrodynamic fluid film bearings with different bearing profiles rely on solutions of the Reynolds equation. This paper presents an approach used for analysing the so‐called pocket bearings formed from a combination of offset circular bearing profiles. The results show that the variation of the dynamic bearing characteristics with different load inclinations for the pocket bearings is less than that for the elliptic bearing counterpart. It is shown that the natural frequencies as well as the critical speeds, and hence the vibrational behaviour, can also be significantly different for an industrial rotor supported by the different bearings.
Do Invasive Fire Ants Affect Habitat Selection within a Small Mammal Community?
Authors: Holtcamp Wendee N. , Williams Christopher K. , Grant William E.
Published: December 2010

Animals must balance foraging with the need to avoid predators and risky habitats that decrease their fitness, and at the same time they must cope with competitors vying for habitat and resources. We examined how habitat selection and population density of four native small mammals were altered by the presence of red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta). When population size was low, hispid cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) and pigmy mice (Baiomys taylori) as well as white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) used the “safe”, low fire ant habitat, as predicted by theories of density-dependent habitat selection. However, as fire ant population sizes expanded, cotton rats appeared to displace pigmy mice into the fire ant-dense grassland drainage while white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) displaced all the other small mammals from low fire ant forest/brushland habitat.
Selective Synthesis and Luminescence Properties of Nanocrystalline GdF3:Eu3+ with Hexagonal and Orthorhombic Structures
Authors: Zhang Xiaoting , Hayakawa Tomokatsu , Nogami Masayuki , Ishikawa Yukari
Published: December 2010

GdF3:Eu3+ nanophosphors with hexagonal or orthorhombic structure have been succeeded to be selectively synthesized at room temperature for the first time via a simple soft chemical route. The structure and morphology of GdF3:Eu3+ nanophosphors were controlled by using different fluoride precursors. Hexagonal GdF3:Eu3+ nanocrystals were formed when NaBF4 was used as a fluoride precursor, while orthorhombic GdF3:Eu3+ nanocrystals were obtained with NaF or NH4F fluoride precursor. It was also experimentally revealed that hexagonal GdF3:Eu3+ nanophosphors emitted essentially stronger Eu3+ luminescence than orthorhombic ones did. The formation mechanism of GdF3 nanocrystals and the possible reasons of the strong PL in hexagonal were discussed.
Adrenocortical Secreting Mass in a Patient with Gardner's Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Rekik Nabila Mejdoub , Ben Salah Sourour , Kallel Nozha , Kamoun Mahdi , Charfi Nadia , Abid Mohamed
Published: December 2010

Gardner's syndrome (GS) is a dysplasia characterized by neoformations of the intestine, soft tissue, and osseous tissue. Endocrine neoplasms have occasionally been reported in association with GS. Adrenal masses in GS are rare, and few have displayed clinical manifestations. In the current paper, The authors report a 37-year-old male patient with GS including familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and mandible osteoma who presented with an incidental adrenal mass. Computerized tomography adrenal scan identified bilateral masses. Functional analyses showed a hormonal secretion pattern consistent with pre-Cushing's syndrome. Other extraintestinal manifestations were hypertrophy of the pigmented layer of the retina and histiocytofibroma in the right leg. This paper describes a rare association of adrenocortical secreting mass in an old male patient with Gardner syndrome.
The Forecasting Procedure for Long‐Term Wind Speed in the Zhangye Area
Authors: Guo Zhenhai , Dong Yao , Wang Jianzhou , Lu Haiyan
Published: December 2010

Energy crisis has made it urgent to find alternative energy sources for sustainable energy supply; wind energy is one of the attractive alternatives. Within a wind energy system, the wind speed is one key parameter; accurately forecasting of wind speed can minimize the scheduling errors and in turn increase the reliability of the electric power grid and reduce the power market ancillary service costs. This paper proposes a new hybrid model for long‐term wind speed forecasting based on the first definite season index method and the Autoregressive Moving Average (ARMA) models or the Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (GARCH) forecasting models. The forecasting errors are analyzed and compared with the ones obtained from the ARMA, GARCH model, and Support Vector Machine (SVM); the simulation process and results show that the developed method is simple and quite efficient for daily average wind speed forecasting of Hexi Corridor in China.
Growth of 2,2‐Biimidazole‐Based Nanorods on Mica Substrate
Authors: Sowwan Mukhles , Abul Haj Mohammad , Faroun Maryam , Hawash Zafer , Ghabboun Jamal , Rida Alaa , Karmi Abeer , Sultan Wadie , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: December 2010

The synthesis of a one‐dimensional single‐stranded helix using the crystallization of silver (I) nitrate and 2,2‐biimidazole has promising potential for use in the area of nanotechnology mainly because of its unique electrical properties and its structural similarity to naturally occurring nucleic acids. In this study, we report a new method for the deposition and growth of 2,2‐biimidazole‐based nanorods on mica substrates by employing a complex solution of silver nitrate (I) and 2,2‐biimidazole. The morphology and electrical polarizability of the prepared nanorods are investigated by tapping mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) and noncontact electrostatic force microscopy (EFM). The experimental results show highly polarizable and singly separated nanorods oriented in three preponderant directions. In addition, we show that the active K+ ions on the mica surface are required for the formation of these nanorods. Additionally, these potassium ions are a critical factor in controlling the nucleation and morphology of nanostructures.
On the Convergence of an Implicit Iterative Process for Generalized Asymptotically Quasi-Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Qin Xiaolong , Kang ShinMin , Agarwal RaviP
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this paper is to introduce and consider a general implicit iterative process which includes Schu's explicit iterative processes and Sun's implicit iterative processes as special cases for a finite family of generalized asymptotically quasi-nonexpansive mappings. Strong convergence of the purposed iterative process is obtained in the framework of real Banach spaces.
In VitroActivity of Geldanamycin Derivatives againstSchistosoma japonicumandBrugia malayi
Authors: Wenkert David , Ramirez Bernadette , Shen Yuehai , Kron Michael A.
Published: December 2010

Geldanamycin (GA) is a benzoquinone-containing ansamycin that inhibits heat shock protein 90. GA derivatives are being evaluated as anti-neoplastic agents, but their utility against parasites whose heat shock proteins (Hsps) have homology with human Hsp90 is unknown. The activities of four synthetic GA derivatives were testedin vitrousing adultBrugia malayiandSchistosoma japonicum. Two of the derivatives, 17-N-allyl-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG) and 17-N-(2-dimethylaminoethylamino)-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (DMAG), are currently in human clinical trials as anticancer drugs. Using concentrations considered safe peak plasma concentrations for these two derivatives, all four derivatives were active against both parasites. The less toxic derivative 17-AAG was as effective as GA in killingS. japonicum, and both DMAG and 5′-bromogeldanoxazinone were more active than 17-AAG againstB. malayi. This work supports continued evaluation of ansamycin derivatives as broad spectrum antiparasitic agents.
Prognostic and Diagnostic Value of Spontaneous Tumor‐Related Antibodies
Authors: Kobold Sebastian , Luetkens Tim , Cao Yanran , Bokemeyer Carsten , Atanackovic Djordje
Published: December 2010

There is an urgent need for earlier diagnosis of malignancies and more stringent monitoring of relapses after antitumor therapy. In addition, new prognostic markers are needed for risk stratification and design of individualized cancer therapies. New diagnostic and prognostic parameters should overcome the impairments of current standards in a cost‐effective manner. Serological approaches measuring spontaneous antibody responses against tumor‐associated antigens could be of use as diagnostic and prognostic markers and could also be employed to evaluate response to therapy in cancer patients. Autoantibodies have been suggested to be of frequent and specific occurrence in patients with malignancies and to correlate with clinical parameters. Screening the relevant literature on this topic, we suggest that the analysis of single antibody specificities is unlikely to provide sufficient diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. The combined analysis of autoantibodies targeting different antigens, however, may reach high sensitivity and specificity. In addition, screening cancer patients for autoantibodies might identify subgroups with high relapse risk and a worse prognosis. Larger prospective trials should be initiated to identify sets of tumor‐associated autoantibodies suited for the use in diagnostic algorithms for cancer detection and followup.
Reference Electrodes in Metal Corrosion
Authors: Szabó S. , Bakos I.
Published: December 2010

With especial regard to hydrogen electrode, the theoretical fundamentals of electrode potential, the most important reference electrodes and the electrode potential measurement have been discussed. In the case of the hydrogen electrode, it have been emphasised that there is no equilibrium between the hydrogen molecule (H2) and the hydrogen (H+), hydronium (H3O+) ion in the absence of a suitable catalyst. Taking into account the practical aspects as well, the theorectical basis of working of hydrogen, copper-copper sulphate, mercury-mercurous halide, silver-silver halide, metal-metal oxide, metal-metal sulphate and “Thalamid” electrodes, has been discussed.
Recent Advancements in Toxin and Antitoxin Systems Involved in Bacterial Programmed Cell Death
Authors: Hu Ming-xi , Zhang Xiao , Li Er-li , Feng Yong-Jun
Published: December 2010

Programmed cell death (PCD) systems have been extensively studied for their significant role in a variety of biological processes in eukaryotic organisms. Recently, more and more researches have revealed the existence of similar systems employed by bacteria in response to various environmental stresses. This paper summarized the recent researching advancements in toxin/antitoxin systems located on plasmids or chromosomes and their regulatory roles in bacterial PCD. The most studied yet disputedmazEFsystem was discussed in depth, and possible roles and status of such a special bacterial death and TA systems were also reviewed from the ecological and evolutionary perspectives.
Cellular and Molecular Characteristics of Scarless versus Fibrotic Wound Healing
Authors: Satish Latha , Kathju Sandeep
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this paper is to compare and contrast the discrete biology differentiating fetal wound repair from its adult counterpart. Integumentary wound healing in mammalian fetuses is essentially different from wound healing in adult skin. Adult (postnatal) skin wound healing is a complex and well‐orchestrated process spurred by attendant inflammation that leads to wound closure with scar formation. In contrast, fetal wound repair occurs with minimal inflammation, faster re‐epithelialization, and without the accumulation of scar. Although research into scarless healing began decades ago, the critical molecular mechanisms driving the process of regenerative fetal healing remain uncertain. Understanding the molecular and cellular events during regenerative healing may provide clues that one day enable us to modulate adult wound healing and consequently reduce scarring.
A Novel Algorithm for Defending Path-Based Denial of Service Attacks in Sensor Networks
Authors: Saifan Ramzi , Al-Jarrah Omar
Published: December 2010

Existing end-to-end security mechanisms are vulnerable to path-based denial of service attacks (PDoS). If checking integrity and authenticity of a message is done only at the final destination, the intermediate nodes are going to forward bogus packets injected by an adversary many hops before they are detected. Therefore, the adversary can easily overwhelm intermediate nodes by bogus or replayed packets. This attack exhausts the nodes along the path. In addition, other downstream nodes that depend on the exhausted nodes as intermediate nodes will be isolated, and they have to find alternative paths. Regarding broadcast traffic that originated from the base station, if packets were injected by an adversary, the whole network's nodes will be exhausted. Therefore, there is a need to enable intermediate nodes to filter out bogus packets. We adopted a link layer security scheme to enable en route intermediate nodes to filter out any bogus or replayed packet as soon as it is injected into the network. Our scheme can handle different types of traffic. Simulation results show that our algorithm outperforms the one-way hash chain (OHC) algorithm and that it is more scalable.
Two Siblings with Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome: Disease Course and Effectiveness of Early Treatment
Authors: AL Azkawi Hanan , AlAlwan Ibrahim
Published: December 2010

There are no adequate data that evaluate the safety and effectiveness of lowering triglyceride levels in very young children. The authors report a family with two male siblings, 7 and 4 years old, affected by familial hyperchylomicronemia. The oldest was diagnosed at birth during evaluation of jaundice, and the youngest showed asymptomatic hypertriglyceridemia by 6 months of age. Due to high triglyceride levels, Gemfibrozil (a fibric acid derivative) was started at diagnosis. Close clinical followup and laboratory monitoring of these children showed no side effects from the drug, and the risk of acute pancreatitis was significantly reduced.
Propagation of Elastic Waves in Prestressed Media
Authors: Singh Inder , Madan Dinesh Kumar , Gupta Manish
Published: December 2010

3D solutions of the dynamical equations in the presence of external forces are derived for a homogeneous, prestressed medium. 2D plane waves solutions are obtained from general solutions and show that there exist two types of plane waves, namely, quasi‐P waves and quasi‐SV waves. Expressions for slowness surfaces and apparent velocities for these waves are derived analytically as well as numerically and represented graphically.
Fenofibrate Treatment Enhances Antioxidant Status and Attenuates Endothelial Dysfunction in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Olukman Murat , Sezer Ebru Demirel , Ülker Sibel , Sözmen Eser Y. , Çınar Gülcihan Mehtap
Published: December 2010

Diabetic endothelial dysfunction is accompanied by increased oxidative stress and upregulated proinflammatory and inflammatory mediators in the vasculature. Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-α) results in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This study was designed to investigate the effect of fenofibrate, a PPAR-αactivator, on the endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation in streptozotocin diabetic rats. Diabetic rats received fenofibrate (150 mg kg−1day−1) for 4 weeks. Fenofibrate treatment restored the impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation and increased basal nitric oxide availability in diabetic aorta, enhanced erythrocyte/liver superoxide dismutase and catalase levels, ameliorated the abnormal serum/aortic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and prevented the increased aortic myeloperoxidase without a significant change in serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It did not affect the decreased total homocysteine level and the increased tumor necrosis factor-αlevel in the serum of diabetic rats. Fenofibrate-induced prevention of the endothelial function seems to be related to its potential antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity.
Projecting Perspectives
Authors: Sciarrillo Michael , Aker Scott
Published: December 2010

Creating a drawing which communicates a vision, and feeling, of a particular design is an important objective for an architect and engineer. Perspective drawing is considered one of the most valuable tools for communicating a design vision. While many methods have developed over time, the sequential process of the conventional perspective remains the same; to first begin with a completed floor plan, and then orthographically project the parts from the plan into a view of a one‐, two‐, or three‐point perspective drawing. The resulting perspective view graphically presents ‘‘what’’ a space or building feels like based on the parts from a plan. In contrast, this paper explores the possibility of reversing the sequence of the conventional perspective methods seeking instead the question of ‘‘why’’ a view has feeling by projecting a measurable floor plan directly from within a perspective view.
Vitreous Humour Extrusion after Suxamethonium Induction of Anaesthesia in a Polytraumatized Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Amadasun Frederick Ebegue , Isesele Theodore Ojeide
Published: December 2010

Introduction. Suxamethonium, a deepolarizing muscle relaxant, increases intraocular pressure. It is therefore advised to be avoided in open globe surgery, for fear of extruding ocular contents. Several anecdotal reports support this fear. Some workers however, dispute this claim. There is as yet no formal case report in the literature on the subject.Case Presentation. A 34-year old Nigerian male, was involved in a road traffic accident. He presented at the Accident & Emergency Unit of our hospital about 2 hours after the accident. Clinical examination revealed right corneal laceration (with intact ocular contents) and intra-abdominal visceral injury. Emergency laparotomy was scheduled, to be followed with corneal repair. Anaesthesia was induced with 10 mg midazolam, 100 mg ketamine, and 100 mg suxamethonium given intravenously in sequence. After laparotomy, the ophthalmologists reported for the corneal repair, only to find that the vitreous humour has been extruded.Conclusion. The fear about the use of suxamethonium in open globe situations is real. It will be good clinical judgment to use alternative drugs and techniques to effect rapid muscle relaxation, in the anaesthetic management of the open globe patient. This would be of interest to anaesthetists, ophthalmologists and clinical pharmacologists among others.
Finite Element Approximation of Maxwell's Equations with Debye Memory
Authors: Shaw Simon
Published: December 2010

Maxwell's equations in a bounded Debye medium are formulated in terms of the standard
partial differential equations of electromagnetism with a Volterra-type history dependence
of the polarization on the electric field intensity. This leads to Maxwell's equations with
memory. We make a correspondence between this type of constitutive law and the hereditary
integral constitutive laws from linear viscoelasticity, and we are then able to apply known results from viscoelasticity theory to this Maxwell system. In particular, we can
show long-time stability by shunning Gronwall's lemma and estimating the history kernels
more carefully by appeal to the underlying physical fading memory. We also give a fully
discrete scheme for the electric field wave equation and derive stability bounds which are
exactly analogous to those for the continuous problem, thus providing a foundation for
long-time numerical integration. We finish by also providing error bounds for which the
constant grows, at worst, linearly in time (excluding the time dependence in the norms
of the exact solution). Although the first (mixed) finite element error analysis for the
Debye problem was given by Li (2007), this seems to be the first time sharp constants have been given for
this problem.
Boric Acid Disturbs Cell Wall Synthesis inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Schmidt Martin , Schaumberg Jaron Z. , Steen Courtney M. , Boyer Michael P.
Published: December 2010

Boric acid (BA) has broad antimicrobial activity that makes it a popular treatment for yeast vaginitis in complementary and alternative medicine. In the model yeastS. cerevisiae, BA disturbs the cytoskeleton at the bud neck and impairs the assembly of the septation apparatus. BA treatment causes cells to form irregular septa and leads to the synthesis of irregular cell wall protuberances that extend far into the cytoplasm. The thick, chitin-rich septa that are formed during BA exposure prevent separation of cells after abscission and cause the formation of cell chains and clumps. As a response to the BA insult, cells signal cell wall stress through the Slt2p pathway and increase chitin synthesis, presumably to repair cell wall damage.
Common Fixed Point Results in Metric-Type Spaces
Authors: Jovanović Mirko , Kadelburg Zoran , Radenović Stojan
Published: December 2010

Several fixed point and common fixed point theorems are obtained in the setting of metric-type spaces introduced by M. A. Khamsi in 2010.
Timing of Antiretroviral Therapy for HIV in the Setting of TB Treatment
Authors: Piggott Damani A. , Karakousis Petros C.
Published: December 2010

The convergent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) pandemics continue to collectively exact significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been a critical component in combating the scourge of these two conditions as both a preemptive and therapeutic modality. However, concomitant administration of antiretroviral and antituberculous therapies poses significant challenges, including cumulative drug toxicities, drug-drug interactions, high pill burden, and the immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), thus complicating the management of coinfected individuals. This paper will review data from recent studies regarding the optimal timing of HAART initiation relative to TB treatment, with the ultimate goal of improving coinfection-related morbidity and mortality while mitigating toxicity resulting from concurrent treatment of both infections.
Lipoplatin Treatment in Lung and Breast Cancer
Authors: Fantini Manuela , Gianni Lorenzo , Santelmo Carlotta , Drudi Fabrizio , Castellani Cinzia , Affatato Alessandra , Nicolini Mario , Ravaioli Alberto
Published: December 2010

The introduction of cisplatin in cancer treatment represents an important achievement in the oncologic field. Many types of cancers are now treated with this drug, and in testicular cancer patients major results are reached.
Since 1965, other compounds were disovered and among them carboplatin and oxaliplatin are the main Cisplatin analogues showing similar clinical efficacy with a safer toxicity profile.
Lipoplatin is a new liposomal cisplatin formulation which seems to have these characteristics. Lipoplatin was shown to be effective in NSCLC both in phase 2 and phase 3 trials, with the same response rate of Cisplatin, a comparable overall survival but less toxicity. A new protocol aiming to elucidate the double capacity of Lipoplatin to act as a chemotherapeutic and angiogenetic agent in triple-negative breast cancer patients is upcoming.
The Role of Unemployment in the Run of Life Chances in Hungary
Authors: Uzzoli Annamária
Published: December 2010

This paper studies the connection between health—especially life expectancy—and unemployment in Hungary. Unemployment and health are recognised as being linked, though the relationship is complex. Unemployment happens to many people mainly in the period of crisis and can be a stressful and depressing time of life. On the one hand, the general state of health of the Hungarian people is worse than justified by the level of economic development. On the other hand, the role of the present economic crisis is to be predicted in the future run of health condition. Moreover, it would probably result health deterioration for those social groups who are most affected by unemployment and poverty.
The study consists of two major structural parts. The theoretical part provides an insight to the specific literature, while the empirical chapter examines the link between socioeconomic indicators, unemployment, and life chances with correlation and regression calculations.
Instable Trivial Solution of Autonomous Differential Systems with Quadratic Right‐Hand Sides in a Cone
Authors: Khusainov D. Ya. , Diblík J. , Svoboda Z. , Šmarda Z.
Published: December 2010

The present investigation deals with global instability of a general n‐dimensional system
of ordinary differential equations with quadratic right‐hand sides. The global instability
of the zero solution in a given cone is proved by Chetaev′s method, assuming that the
matrix of linear terms has a simple positive eigenvalue and the remaining eigenvalues have
negative real parts. The sufficient conditions for global instability obtained are formulated
by inequalities involving norms and eigenvalues of auxiliary matrices. In the proof, a result
is used on the positivity of a general third‐degree polynomial in two variables to estimate
the sign of the full derivative of an appropriate function in a cone.
Structure and Optical Properties of Silicon Nanocrystals Embedded in Amorphous Silicon Thin Films Obtained by PECVD
Authors: Monroy B. M. , Remolina Millán Aduljay , García-Sánchez M. F. , Ponce A. , Picquart M. , Santana G.
Published: December 2010

Silicon nanocrystals embedded in amorphous silicon matrix were obtained by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition using dichlorosilane as silicon precursor. The RF power and dichlorosilane to hydrogen flow rate ratio were varied to obtain different crystalline fractions and average sizes of silicon nanocrystals. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images and RAMAN measurements confirmed the existence of nanocrystals embedded in the amorphous matrix with average sizes between 2 and 6 nm. Different crystalline fractions (from 12% to 54%) can be achieved in these films by regulating the selected growth parameters. The global optical constants of the films were obtained by UV-visible transmittance measurements. Effective band gap variations from 1.78 to 2.3 eV were confirmed by Tauc plot method. Absorption coefficients higher than standard amorphous silicon were obtained in these thin films for specific growth parameters. The relationship between the optical properties is discussed in terms of the different internal nanostructures of the samples.
The Representative Porcine Model for Human Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Suzuki Yoriyasu , Yeung Alan C. , Ikeno Fumiaki
Published: December 2010

To improve human health, scientific discoveries must be translated into practical applications. Inherent in the development of these technologies is the role of preclinical testing using animal models. Although significant insight into the molecular and cellular basis has come from small animal models, significant differences exist with regard to cardiovascular characteristics between these models and humans. Therefore, large animal models are essential to develop the discoveries from murine models into clinical therapies and interventions.
This paper will provide an overview of the more frequently used large animal models, especially porcine models for preclinical studies.
INVAP′s Nuclear Calculation System
Authors: Mochi Ignacio
Published: December 2010

Since its origins in 1976, INVAP has been on continuous development of the calculation system used for design and optimization of nuclear reactors. The calculation codes have been polished and enhanced with new capabilities as they were needed or useful for the new challenges that the market imposed. The actual state of the code packages enables INVAP to design nuclear installations with complex geometries using a set of easy‐to‐use input files that minimize user errors due to confusion or misinterpretation. A set of intuitive graphic postprocessors have also been developed providing a fast and complete visualization tool for the parameters obtained in the calculations. The capabilities and general characteristics of this deterministic software package are presented throughout the paper including several examples of its recent application.
Small for Gestational Age and Magnesium in Cord Blood Platelets: Intrauterine Magnesium Deficiency May Induce Metabolic Syndrome in Later Life
Authors: Takaya Junji , Kaneko Kazunari
Published: December 2010

Magnesium deficiency in pregnancy frequently occurs because of inadequate or low intake of magnesium. Magnesium deficiency during pregnancy can induce not only maternal and fetal nutritional problems, but also consequences that might last in offspring throughout life. Many epidemiological studies have disclosed that small for gestational age (SGA) is associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance in adult life. We reported that intracellular magnesium of cord blood platelets is lower in SGA groups than that in appropriate for gestational age groups, suggesting that intrauterine magnesium deficiency may result in SGA. Taken together, intrauterine magnesium deficiency in the fetus may lead to or at least program insulin resistance after birth. In this review, we propose that intrauterine magnesium deficiency may induce metabolic syndrome in later life. We discuss the potential contribution of aberrant magnesium regulation to SGA and to the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome.