bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silicon Micromachining Based on Surfactant-Added Tetramethyl Ammonium Hydroxide: Etching Mechanism and Advanced Applications
Authors: Pal Prem , Gosalvez Miguel A. , Sato Kazuo
Published: May 2010

This paper presents the mechanism behind the accused macroscopic changes in the etched profiles and etch rates caused by the addition of small amounts of surfactants (e.g., Triton X-100) in typical alkaline etchants (e.g., tetramethylammonium hydroxide or TMAH) for silicon micromachining applications targeting the fabrication of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). In order to stress the technological importance of the surfactant addition in TMAH, the paper presents an overview of novel fabrication methods for the realization of new fixed and freestanding structures in Si{100} wafers using an inexpensive combination of wet anisotropic etching in pure and surfactant-added TMAH. The fixed structures contain perfectly sharp edges and a smooth etched surface finish. Thermally deposited oxide is used as the material for the freestanding structures. The fixed structures serve as molds for the realization of new structural shapes using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS).
Low Temperature Aluminum Oxide Gate Dielectric on Plastic Film for Flexible Device Application
Authors: Hasan Musarrat , Rho Jonghyun , Kang Seung Youl , Ahn Jong-Hyun
Published: May 2010

The growth of low temperature aluminum oxide gate dielectric on a plastic substrate is explored for flexible device application. Single-crystal-transferred-silicon is used as a channel layer. A plasma-deposited interfacial oxide layer is found beneficial for better device performances. Additional forming gas annealing also improved contact resistance and resulted in better passivation of defect sites, hence, enhanced performances. High mobility, high on current with large on–off ratio and low threshold voltage was achieved. The flexibility of the device is also reported. Devices show nearly no changes in electrical properties after bending the device to a strain value of up to 0.3%, corresponding to a bending radius of 4 mm.
Low Temperature Synthesis of CdSe Quantum Dots with Amine Derivative and Their Chemical Kinetics
Authors: Hwang Seongmi , Choi Youngmin , Jeong Sunho , Jung Hakyun , Kim Chang Gyoun , Chung Teak-Mo , Ryu Beyong-Hwan
Published: May 2010

The chemical kinetics of growing CdSe nanocrystals was studied in order to investigate the effects of amine capping agents on the size of resulting quantum dots (QDs). CdSe QDs were prepared in phenyl ether, and the amine ligand dependence of QD size was determined. The results show that the size of CdSe nanocrystals can be regulated by controlling reaction rate, with smaller QDs being formed in slower processes. The results of photoluminescence (PL) studies show that the emission wavelengths of the QDs well correlate with particle size. This simple process for forming different-sized QDs, which uses a cheap solvent and various capping agents, has the potential for preparing CdSe nanocrystals more economically.
Highly Efficient Inkjet-Printed Organic Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Jung Jaewook , Kim Donghwan , Lim Jongsun , Lee Changjin , Yoon Sung Cheol
Published: May 2010

In this article, we report the development of inkjet printing technique for the fabrication of bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic cells (OPVs). We have demonstrated highly efficient OPV with a mixture of poly(3-hexylthiophene)s (P3HT) and 1-[3-(methoxycarbonyl)propyl]-1-phenyl[6.6]C61 (PCBM) as an inkjet-printed photoactive layer. Especially, 3.8% of power conversion efficiency (PCE) and 0.68 V of open circuit voltage (V
oc) can be obtained by using the chlorobenzene as a solvent. This value is the highest performance in P3HT:PCBM based OPV system by now. We reveal that substantial improvements can be realized by nano-structured heterojunction after inkjet printing and this technique is one of the promising fabrication methods for organic photovoltaic cells. Also, we have designed and fabricated five-series connected large area (18 cm2) inkjet-printed OPVs using the patterned indium tin oxide (ITO) with Au bus-electrode to minimize the efficiency drop due to the surface resistance of ITO. Consequently, 1.25% of power conversion efficiency can be obtained with a short circuit current of 1.24 mA/cm2, a fill factor of 0.32, and an open circuit voltage of 3.2 V.
ANG II promotes autophagy in podocytes
Authors: Yadav Anju , Vallabu Sridevi , Arora Shitij , Tandon Pranay , Slahan Divya , Teichberg Saul , Singhal Pravin C.
Published: May 2010

Podocytes are an integral and important constituent of the glomerular filtration barrier (GFB) and are exposed to a higher concentrations of ANG II in diseased states; consequently, podocytes may accumulate oxidized proteins and damaged mitochondria. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of ANG II on the podocyte autophagic process, which is likely to be triggered in order to degrade unwanted proteins and damaged organelles. To quantitate the occurrence of autophagy, electron microscopic studies were carried out on control and ANG II-treated conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes (CIMPs). ANG II-treated cells showed a fivefold greater number of autophagosomes/field compared with control cells. This proautophagic effect of ANG II was inhibited by pretreatment with 3-methyladenine, an inhibitor of autophagy. ANG II also enhanced podocyte expression of autophagic genes such as LC3-2 and beclin-1. Since oxidative stress is often associated with the induction of autophagy, we examined the effect of ANG II on podocyte reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. ANG II enhanced podocyte ROS generation in a time-dependent manner. To determine whether there is a causal relationship between ANG II-induced oxidative stress and induction of autophagy, we evaluated the effect of antioxidants on ANG II-induced autophagy. As expected, the proautophagic effect of ANG II was inhibited by antioxidants. We conclude that ANG II promotes podocyte autophagy through the generation of ROS.
ClC-2 regulates mucosal barrier function associated with structural changes to the villus and epithelial tight junction
Authors: Nighot Prashant K. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: May 2010

We have previously shown an important role of the chloride channel ClC-2 in orchestrating repair of tight junctions in ischemia-injured mucosa. In this study, we examined the role of ClC-2 in regulating barrier function of normal murine intestinal mucosa. Ex vivo, ClC-2−/− ileal mucosa mounted in Ussing chambers had significantly higher transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and reduced [3H]mannitol mucosal-to-serosal flux compared with wild-type (WT) mouse mucosa. We also noted that ileum from ClC-2−/− mice had a significantly reduced in vivo [3H]mannitol blood-to-lumen clearance compared with WT animals. By scanning electron microscopy, flat leaflike villi were found to have tapering, rounded apical tips in ClC-2−/− mucosa. By transmission electron microscopy, the apical intercellular tight junctions in ClC-2−/− intestine revealed lateral membranes that were less well defined but closely aligned compared with electron-dense and closely apposed tight junctions in WT mucosa. The width of apical tight junctions was significantly reduced in ClC-2−/− intestine. Such an alteration in tight junction ultrastructure was also noted in the testicular tissue from ClC-2−/− mice. The ClC-2−/− intestinal mucosa had reduced expression of phospho-myosin light chain (MLC), and inhibition of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) in WT mucosa partially increased TER toward the TER in ClC-2−/− intestine. Contrary to our prior work on the reparative role of ClC-2 in injured mucosa, this study indicates that ClC-2 reduces barrier function in normal mucosa. The mechanisms underlying these differing roles are not entirely clear, although ultrastructural morphology of tight junctions and MLCK appear to be important to the function of ClC-2 in normal mucosa.
Endocrine control of oleic acid and glucose metabolism in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) muscle cells in culture
Authors: Sánchez-Gurmaches Joan , Cruz-Garcia Lourdes , Gutiérrez Joaquím , Navarro Isabel
Published: May 2010

The effects of insulin and IGF-I on fatty acid (FA) and glucose metabolism were examined using oleic acid or glucose as tracers in differentiated rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss ) myotubes. Insulin and IGF-I significantly reduced the production of CO2from oleic acid with respect to the control values. IGF-I also significantly reduced the production of acid-soluble products (ASP) and the concentration of FA in the medium, while cellular triacylglycerols (TAG) tended to increase. Only insulin produced a significant accumulation of glycogen inside the cells in glucose distribution experiments. Incubation with catecholamines did not affect oleic acid metabolism. Cells treated with rapamycin [a target of rapamycin (TOR) inhibitor] significantly increased the oxidation of oleic acid to CO2and ASP, while the accumulation of TAG diminished. Rosiglitazone (a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ agonist) and etomoxir (a CPT-1 inhibitor) produced a severe and significant reduction in the production of CO2and ASP. Rosiglitazone and etomoxir also produced a significant accumulation of FA outside and inside the cells, respectively. No significant effects of these drugs on glucose distribution were observed. These data indicate that insulin and IGF-I act as anabolic hormones in trout myotubes in both oleic acid and glucose metabolism, although glucose oxidation appears to be less sensitive than FA oxidation to insulin and IGF-I. The use of rapamycin, etomoxir, and rosiglitazone may help us to understand the mechanisms of regulation of lipid metabolism in fish.
In vitro enhanced chemotaxis of CD25+ mononuclear cells in patients with familial IgAN through glomerulotubular interactions
Authors: Tam Ka Ying , Leung Joseph C. K. , Chan Loretta Y. Y. , Lam Man Fai , Tang Sydney C. W. , Lai Kar Neng
Published: May 2010

Tubulointerstitial infiltration of immunocompetent cells is often associated with a more rapid progression in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Using an in vitro Transwell coculture system, we examined the chemotactic response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTEC) following activation by conditioned medium prepared from mesangial cells cultured with macromolecular IgA1 from 60 patients with multiplex familial IgAN (MpIgAN) and 91 of their asymptomatic relatives; 43 patients with sporadic IgAN (SpIgAN) and 90 of their asymptomatic relatives; and 43 healthy subjects. Compared with SpIgAN patients, PTEC activated by conditioned medium from patients with MpIgAN had elevated gene expression of a spectrum of C-C, C-X-C chemokines and proinflammatory cytokines, with prominent expressions of interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α. In response to conditioned medium from patients with familial IgAN, there was a significant increase in chemotaxis of CD45+ cells, CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD20+ lymphocytes, and monocytes with CD25 expression. Our findings suggest that compared with SpIgAN patients, macromolecular IgA1 taken from MpIgAN patients is more pathogenic to cultured PTEC through a glomerulotubular interaction. A long-term follow-up is needed to better define the prognostic course for familial IgAN and to clarify the risk of developing IgAN in initially asymptomatic relatives from a multiplex IgAN family.
Chronic hypoxia increases the gain of the hypoxic ventilatory response by a mechanism in the central nervous system
Authors: Wilkinson Katherine A. , Huey Kimberly , Dinger Bruce , He Liang , Fidone Salvatore , Powell Frank L.
Published: May 2010

We studied the effects of the ventilatory stimulant doxapram to test the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia increases the translation of carotid body afferent input into ventilatory motor efferent output by the central nervous system. Chronic hypoxia (inspired Po2 = 70 Torr, 2 days) significantly increased the ventilatory response to an intravenous infusion of a high dose of doxapram in conscious, unrestrained rats breathing normoxic or hypoxic gas. The in vitro carotid body response to hypoxia increased with chronic hypoxia, but the response was not increased with a high dose of doxapram. Similarly, the phrenic nerve response to doxapram in anesthetized rats with carotid bodies denervated did not change with 7 days of chronic hypoxia. The results support the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia causes plasticity in the central component of the carotid chemoreceptor ventilatory reflex, which increases the hypoxic ventilatory response. We conclude that doxapram provides a promising tool to study the time course of changes in the central gain of the hypoxic ventilatory response during chronic hypoxia in awake animals and humans.
Nitric Oxide Potentiates cAMP-Gated Cation Current by Intracellular Acidification in Feeding Neurons of Pleurobranchaea
Authors: Potgieter Kurt , Hatcher Nathan G. , Gillette Rhanor , McCrohan Catherine R.
Published: May 2010

A pH-sensitive cAMP-gated cation current ( INa,cAMP) is widely distributed in neurons of the feeding motor networks of gastropods. In the sea slug Pleurobranchaea this current is potentiated by nitric oxide (NO), which itself is produced by many feeding neurons. The action of NO is not dependent on either cGMP or cAMP signaling pathways. However, we found that NO potentiation of INa,cAMPin the serotonergic metacerebral cells could be blocked by intracellular injection of MOPS buffer (pH 7.2). In neurons injected with the pH indicator BCECF, NO induced rapid intracellular acidification to several tenths of a pH unit. Intracellular pH has not previously been identified as a specific target of NO, but in this system NO modulation of INa,cAMPvia pHimay be an important regulator of the excitability of the feeding motor network.
Discrimination of Speech Stimuli Based on Neuronal Response Phase Patterns Depends on Acoustics But Not Comprehension
Authors: Howard Mary F. , Poeppel David
Published: May 2010

Speech stimuli give rise to neural activity in the listener that can be observed as waveforms using magnetoencephalography. Although waveforms vary greatly from trial to trial due to activity unrelated to the stimulus, it has been demonstrated that spoken sentences can be discriminated based on theta-band (3–7 Hz) phase patterns in single-trial response waveforms. Furthermore, manipulations of the speech signal envelope and fine structure that reduced intelligibility were found to produce correlated reductions in discrimination performance, suggesting a relationship between theta-band phase patterns and speech comprehension. This study investigates the nature of this relationship, hypothesizing that theta-band phase patterns primarily reflect cortical processing of low-frequency (<40 Hz) modulations present in the acoustic signal and required for intelligibility, rather than processing exclusively related to comprehension (e.g., lexical, syntactic, semantic). Using stimuli that are quite similar to normal spoken sentences in terms of low-frequency modulation characteristics but are unintelligible (i.e., their time-inverted counterparts), we find that discrimination performance based on theta-band phase patterns is equal for both types of stimuli. Consistent with earlier findings, we also observe that whereas theta-band phase patterns differ across stimuli, power patterns do not. We use a simulation model of the single-trial response to spoken sentence stimuli to demonstrate that phase-locked responses to low-frequency modulations of the acoustic signal can account not only for the phase but also for the power results. The simulation offers insight into the interpretation of the empirical results with respect to phase-resetting and power-enhancement models of the evoked response.
Presynaptic Inhibitory Terminals Are Functionally Abnormal in a Rat Model of Posttraumatic Epilepsy
Authors: Faria Leonardo C. , Prince David A.
Published: May 2010

Partially isolated “undercut” neocortex with intact pial circulation is a well-established model of posttraumatic epileptogenesis. Results of previous experiments showed a decreased frequency of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) in layer V pyramidal (Pyr) neurons of undercuts. We further examined possible functional abnormalities in GABAergic inhibition in rat epileptogenic neocortical slices in vitro by recording whole cell monosynaptic IPSCs in layer V Pyr cells and fast-spiking (FS) GABAergic interneurons using a paired pulse paradigm. Compared with controls, IPSCs in Pyr neurons of injured slices showed increased threshold and decreased peak amplitude at threshold, decreased input/output slopes, increased failure rates, and a shift from paired pulse depression toward paired pulse facilitation (increased paired pulse ratio or PPR). Increasing [Ca2+]ofrom 2 to 4 mM partially reversed these abnormalities in Pyr cells of the epileptogenic tissue. IPSCs onto FS cells also had an increased PPR and failures. Blockade of GABABreceptors did not affect the paired results. These findings suggest that there are functional alterations in GABAergic presynaptic terminals onto both Pyr and FS cells in this model of posttraumatic epileptogenesis.
Correcting the Bias of Spike Field Coherence Estimators Due to a Finite Number of Spikes
Authors: Grasse D. W. , Moxon K. A.
Published: May 2010

The coherence between oscillatory activity in local field potentials (LFPs) and single neuron action potentials, or spikes, has been suggested as a neural substrate for the representation of information. The power spectrum of a spike-triggered average (STA) is commonly used to estimate spike field coherence (SFC). However, when a finite number of spikes is used to construct the STA, the coherence estimator is biased. We introduce here a correction for the bias imposed by the limited number of spikes available in experimental conditions. In addition, we present an alternative method for estimating SFC from an STA by using a filter bank approach. This method is shown to be more appropriate in some analyses, such as comparing coherence across frequency bands. The proposed bias correction is a linear transformation derived from an idealized model of spike–field interaction but is shown to hold in more realistic settings. Uncorrected and corrected SFC estimates from both estimation methods are compared across multiple simulated spike–field models and experimentally collected data. The bias correction was shown to reduce the bias of the estimators, but add variance. However, the corrected estimates had a reduced or unchanged mean squared error in the majority of conditions evaluated. The bias correction provides an effective way to reduce bias in an SFC estimator without increasing the mean squared error.
Responsiveness of C Neurons in Rat Dorsal Root Ganglion to 5-Hydroxytryptamine-Induced Pruritic Stimuli In Vivo
Authors: Hachisuka Junichi , Furue Hidemasa , Furue Masutaka , Yoshimura Megumu
Published: May 2010

Itching is a common symptom in dermatologic diseases and causes restless scratching of the skin, which aggravates the condition. The mechanism of the itch sensation, however, is enigmatic. The present study included behavioral tests and electrophysiological recordings from rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in vivo to analyze the response to pruritic stimuli induced by topical application of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) to the skin. Topically applied 5-HT to the rostral back evoked scratching, whereas application of the vehicle did not. Following subcutaneous injection of the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone, the number of scratches decreased, suggesting that the scratching was preferentially mediated by itch but not pain sensation. To elucidate the firing properties of DRG neurons in response to topically applied 5-HT, intracellular recordings were made from DRG neurons in vivo. None of the Aβ and Aδ neurons responded to 5-HT; in contrast, 25 of 91 C neurons (27%) exhibited repetitive firing in response to 5-HT, which could be classified into two firing patterns: one was a transient type, characterized by low firing frequency that decreased within 5 min; the other was a long-lasting type, having high firing frequency that continued increasing after 5 min. The time course of the firing pattern of long-lasting C neurons was comparable to the scratching behavior. Intriguingly, the long-lasting-type neurons had a significantly smaller fast afterhyperpolarization than that of the 5-HT-insensitive neurons. These observations suggest that the long-lasting-firing C neurons in rat DRG sensitive to 5-HT are responsible for conveying pruritic information to the spinal cord.
Immune Response of Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes and Possibility of Vaccine Development for Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Hiroishi Kazumasa , Eguchi Junichi , Ishii Shigeaki , Hiraide Ayako , Sakaki Masashi , Doi Hiroyoshi , Omori Risa , Imawari Michio
Published: May 2010

Immune responses of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) are implicated in viral eradication and the pathogenesis of hepatitis C. Weak CTL response against hepatitis C virus (HCV) may lead to a persistent infection. HCV infection impairs the function of HCV-specific CTLs; HCV proteins are thought to actively suppress host immune responses, including CTLs. Induction of a strong HCV-specific CTL response in HCV-infected patients can facilitate complete HCV clearance. Thus, the development of a vaccine that can induce potent CTL response against HCV is strongly expected. We investigated HCV-specific CTL responses by enzyme-linked immuno-spot assay and/or synthetic peptides and identified over 40 novel CTL epitopes in the HCV protein. Our findings may contribute to the development of the HCV vaccine. In this paper, we describe the CTL responses in HCV infection and the attempts at vaccine development based on recent scientific articles.
Prediction Control for Brachytherapy Robotic System
Authors: Buzurovic Ivan , Podder Tarun K. , Yu Yan
Published: May 2010

In contemporary brachytherapy procedure, needle placement at desired location is challenging due to a variety of reasons. We have designed and fabricated an image-guided robot-assisted brachytherapy system to improve the needle placement and seed delivery. In this article we have used two different predictive control strategies in order to investigate the needle insertion efficacy and system dynamics during prostate brachytherapy. First, we used neural network predictive control (NNPC) to predict an insertion force. The NNPC uses the linearized state-space model of the robotic system to predict future system performances. Second, we used feedforward model predictive control (MPC) which allows the controller to compensate the influence of a measured disturbance's impact immediately rather than waiting until the effect appears in the system. Feedback control problem for the contact force regulation is considered. The simulation results and experiments for both cases are presented and compared.
MHC Class II Binding Prediction—A Little Help from a Friend
Authors: Dimitrov Ivan , Garnev Panayot , Flower Darren R. , Doytchinova Irini
Published: May 2010

Vaccines are the greatest single instrument of prophylaxis against infectious diseases, with immeasurable benefits to human wellbeing. The accurate and reliable prediction of peptide-MHC binding is fundamental to the robust identification of T-cell epitopes and thus the successful design of peptide- and protein-based vaccines. The prediction of MHC class II peptide binding has hitherto proved recalcitrant and refractory. Here we illustrate the utility of existing computational tools for in silico prediction of peptides binding to class II MHCs. Most of the methods, tested in the present study, detect more than the half of the true binders in the top 5% of all possible nonamers generated from one protein. This number increases in the top 10% and 15% and then does not change significantly. For the top 15% the identified binders approach 86%. In terms of lab work this means 85% less expenditure on materials, labour and time. We show that while existing caveats are well founded, nonetheless use of computational models of class II binding can still offer viable help to the work of the immunologist and vaccinologist.
Intracerebral Mass Bleeding in a Term Neonate: Manifestation of Hereditary Protein S Deficiency with a New Mutation in the PROS1 Gene
Authors: Fischer Doris , Porto Luciana , Stoll Hildegard , Geisen Christof , Schloesser Rolf L.
Published: May 2010

Background: Vitamin K deficiency is the major cause of coagulopathy-induced intracranial bleeding in term neonates and is considered first in any term neonate with severe hemorrhage. The most common manifestation of hereditary prothrombotic disorders during the neonatal period is thrombosis of the A. cerebri media or sinus thrombosis. Case Report: A 4-day-old newborn was admitted with seizures and hemorrhagic shock. Ultrasound revealed a left-sided intraparenchymatous bleeding. MRI findings supported a subarachnoidal and intracerebral mass bleeding. Vitamin K deficiency-related bleeding or hemophiliac diseases were excluded; however, homozygous protein S deficiency with a new mutation in the protein S (PROS1) gene (c.701A>G, p.Tyr234Cys) was found. The patient experienced an additional thrombosis of the A. abdominalis and expired. Conclusion: Congenital prothrombotic disorders have to be considered in the differential diagnosis of neonatal intracranial hemorrhage. This newly described mutation in the PROS1 gene (c.701A>G, p.Tyr234Cys) appears to be of clinical relevance.
Fetoplazentare Störungen bei Gestationsdiabetes
Authors: Hiden Ursula , Lang Uwe , Desoye Gernot
Published: May 2010

Die Plazenta an der Schnittstelle zwischen Mutter und Fetus ist mütterlichen und fetalen Einflüssen ausgesetzt. Insbesondere Insulin und die insulinähnlichen Wachstumsfaktoren der Typen 1 und 2 (IGF1 und IGF2) regulieren Wachstum und Funktion der Plazenta. Gestationsdiabetes ist assoziiert mit hormonellen und metabolischen Veränderungen in beiden Blutkreisläufen. Auch die Konzentrationen von Insulin, IGF1 und IGF2 sind bei Gestationsdiabetes verändert, was sich auf Plazenta und Kind auswirken kann. In diesem Artikel werden die Veränderungen der Plazenta bei Gestationsdiabetes beschrieben und die Rolle, die Insulin, IGF1 und IGF2 darin spielen, diskutiert.
Relationship between Carnitine, Fatty Acids and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Lohninger Alfred , Radler U. , Jinniate S. , Lohninger S. , Karlic H. , Lechner S. , Mascher D. , Tammaa A. , Salzer H.
Published: May 2010

Increased plasma free fatty acid (FFA) levels are a feature of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of L-carnitine supplementation on plasma lipids and the expression of enzymes in peripheral mononucleated cells (PMNC) involved in the regulation of fatty acid and glucose oxidation. L-Carnitine supplementation of 2 g/day resulted in a significant decrease in plasma FFA and in a less pronounced diminution of the plasma triacylglycerols. In addition, a concomitant increase in the relative mRNA abundances of carnitine acyltransferases (5- to 10-fold) and of the carnitine carrier OCTN2 (12-fold) in PMNC of pregnant women was found. The results of the present study provide evidence that L-carnitine supplementation in pregnancy (2 g/day) avoids a striking increase in plasma FFA, which are thought to be the main cause of insulin resistance and consequently gestational diabetes mellitus.
Bedeutung der HAPO-Ergebnisse für die zukünftige Diagnostik und Therapie des Gestationsdiabetes
Authors: Schäfer-Graf Ute
Published: May 2010

Die HAPO-Studie (Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Study) ist eine weltweite Studie, in die 25 000 Schwangere aufgenommen wurden und die im Juni 2008 veröffentlicht wurde [NEJM 2008;358:2061–2063]. Die Ergebnisse wurden von der Fachwelt heiss ersehnt, da man sich entscheidende Erkenntnisse über die Auswirkungen von erhöhten Blutzuckerwerten bei der Mutter auf das ungeborene Kind erhofft. Es ist zudem zu erwarten, dass auf der Basis dieser Studie die diagnostischen Kriterien für Schwangerschaftsdiabetes modifiziert werden. Die HAPO-Studie wird die an den massgeblichen intrauterinen kindlichen Komplikationen orientierten Grenzwerte für den oralen Glukosetoleranztest in der Schwangerschaft liefern, die auf einem sehr hohen Evidenzniveau erhoben wurden. Das wird die Diagnostik des Gestationsdiabetes vereinheitlichen und dem betreuenden Arzt mehr fachliche und rechtliche Sicherheit bieten.
Evaluation of Swiss Guidelines for the Indication for Hysterectomy in Relation to Patient Outcome
Authors: Schilling J. , Abou Hadeed M. , Fink D. , Hagmann P.D. , Hess T. , Infanger E. , Müller M. , Wyss P. ,   for the Swiss Indication and Outcome of Hysterectomy Study Group
Published: May 2010

Background:The application of national guidelines which specify the appropriateness for hysterectomy is believed to lead to improved patient outcomes. However, there was no evidence to support this assumption by outcome data. Goals: To evaluate adherence to guidelines and the validity of the 1997 Swiss guidelines for the appropriateness of hysterectomy based on changes in patients’ functional and psychosocial status. Method: Multicentre study of 370 consecutive cases from 18 public hospitals assessing data on appropriateness and changes in patient status following hysterectomy. Data on appropriateness were obtained before the procedure (n = 286). Changes in patient status following hysterectomy were assessed using an adapted and weighted score. Baseline data were collected up to 8 weeks prior to hysterectomy. Outcome data were obtained 16–32 weeks after surgery (n = 237). Patients for whom appropriateness data were available (n = 286) were categorized into three groups: (1) 214 patients (74.82%) with an indication for hysterectomy, (2) 36 patients (12.58%) classified as having an indication with regard to their preference, and (3) 36 patients (12.58%) classified as not being appropriate for surgery according to national guidelines. Results: In 87% the indication for hysterectomy was judged as appropriate according to the guidelines. The status of all three groups of patients after hysterectomy was found to be significantly improved compared to baseline levels. Patients with an appropriate indication tended to profit more from hysterectomy. Conclusion: The appropriateness rating found may be interpreted as an example of justified use of medical procedural intervention. There was a positive correlation between appropriateness and outcome. The 1997 guidelines still seem to be valid.
Morbus Paget der Vulva: Remission durch Lokalbehandlung mit Imiquimod – Fallbericht und Literaturübersicht
Authors: Bertozzi Serena , Londero Ambrogio P. , Fruscalzo Arrigo , Marchesoni Diego , Lellé R.J.
Published: May 2010

Der Morbus Paget ist eine seltene Erkrankung der Vulva, welche weniger als 1% aller Neoplasien der Vulva ausmacht. Die übliche Therapie besteht in der lokalen chirurgischen Entfernung. Während die invasive Form des Morbus Paget selten ist, stellen die häufigen Lokalzrezidive, welche nicht mehr chirurgisch behandelt werden können, ein bedeutendes klinisches Problem dar. Bei einer 71-jährigen Patientin wurde ein solches Rezidiv erfolgreich mit Imiquimodsalbe behandelt. Die Juckreizsymptome bildeten sich nach kurzer Zeit zurück. Nach 4 Wochen waren die kolposkopisch sichtbaren Hauterscheinungen rückläufig. Innerhalb von 8 Wochen kam es zu einer kompletten klinischen Remission. Die Lokalbehandlung mit Imiquimod ist demnach nicht nur bei der vulvären intraepithelialen Neoplasie erfolgversprechend, sondern stellt auch bei ausgewählten Patientinnen mit rezidivierendem Morbus Paget der Vulva eine konservative Behandlungsalternative dar.
Psychomotor Slowing in Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia: Mechanisms and Diagnostic Value
Authors: Bailon Olivier , Roussel Martine , Boucart Muriel , Krystkowiak Pierre , Godefroy Olivier
Published: May 2010

Background: Although psychomotor slowing is frequent in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Lewy body dementia (LBD), its mechanism and diagnostic value have not been examined. Objective: To (i) assess psychomotor speed in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), AD and LBD, (ii) determine the underlying mechanisms, and (iii) examine whether psychomotor slowing constitutes a useful diagnostic marker. Methods: Psychomotor speed was assessed in MCI (n = 11) and mild dementia due to AD (n = 23) or LBD (n = 18) and controls (n = 52) with visual inspection time (VIT), digital tapping, simple reaction time (SRT) and choice reaction time (CRT) tests. Results: MCI did not differ from controls. Both dementia groups showed different patterns. In AD, VIT (p = 0.0001), tapping (p = 0.021), SRT (p = 0.0001) and decision time (p = 0.0001) were impaired as compared to controls. In LBD, VIT (p = 0.0001) was very impaired and correlated with visual hallucinations (p = 0.001); SRT lengthening (p = 0.0001) was related to attentional disorders (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Psychomotor slowing of AD is due to slower perceptuomotor and decision processes. In LBD, psychomotor slowing is due to visual and attention disorders, and subtle visual disorders contribute to hallucinations. VIT and CRT are useful diagnostic markers.
Increased Adverse Drug Reactions to Cephalosporins in Penicillin Allergy Patients with Positive Penicillin Skin Test
Authors: Park Miguel A. , Koch Cody A. , Klemawesch Patrick , Joshi Avni , Li James T.
Published: May 2010

Background: Cephalosporin administration in patients with a history of penicillin allergy is controversial. Studies looking at the safety of cephalosporin in patients with a history of penicillin allergy lacked a control group, had a small number of patients, and/or lacked confirmation of penicillin allergy by penicillin skin testing. The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients with penicillin allergy were at increased risk of adverse drug reactions when administered cephalosporin. Methods: A cohort study of patients with a history of penicillin allergy and a positive or negative penicillin skin test when administered cephalosporin was conducted. Charts were reviewed for adverse drug reactions to cephalosporin after penicillin skin testing. Results: Eighty-five patients with a history of penicillin allergy and positive penicillin skin test and 726 patients with a history of penicillin allergy and negative penicillin skin test were administered cephalosporin. Five (6%) of 85 cases had an adverse drug reaction to cephalosporin as compared to 5 (0.7%) of 726 of the referent population (p = 0.0019). The rate of presumed IgE-mediated adverse drug reactions to the cephalosporins amongst the cases was 2 (2%) of 85 compared to 1 (0.1%) of 726 amongst the referent population (p = 0.0304). Conclusion: A greater risk of an adverse drug reaction to cephalosporin exists in patients with penicillin allergy. We recommend penicillin skin testing if cephalosporin, especially a first-generation cephalosporin, is to be administered to patients with a history of penicillin allergy.
Allergic Rhinitis and Asthma: A Large Cross-Sectional Study in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Alsowaidi Shirina , Abdulle Abdishakur , Bernsen Roos , Zuberbier Torsten
Published: May 2010

Background: Studies on comorbidity of allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma have been carried out in developed countries; however, data from countries in development transition are lacking. Methods: In a randomly selected, age-stratified cohort of adolescent school children and their caretakers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), comorbidity of AR and asthma was calculated using multinomial regression to determine independent risk factors. Results: A total of 6,543 subjects were included in the study; the median age was 30 years (range 8–93), and 52% were males. The standardized prevalence of concomitant asthma and AR was 7.3%. AR subjects had a 3-fold increased risk of asthma compared to subjects without AR (23.8 and 7.5%, respectively). Immigrants had a significantly lower prevalence of comorbidity of AR and asthma [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.53, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.85] compared to UAE nationals, while greater age carried a lower risk (adjusted OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.44–0.78), but a family history of both AR (adjusted OR 3.03, 95% CI 2.31–3.98) and asthma (adjusted OR 4.65, 95% CI 3.53–6.12) was strongly associated with the co-occurrence of these 2 conditions, while gender and education were not. Asthma patients with AR had more severe symptoms than those without, i.e. ‘dry cough at night’ in 65 versus 36%, β-mimeticum use in 42 versus 30%, and steroid use in 25 versus 13%, respectively. Conclusion: Comorbidity of asthma and AR in the UAE is high, with a prevalence of 7.3%. Both the underlying reasons and possibilities for better prevention now need to be focused on in future research.
Elevated Serum Total IgE – A Potential Marker for Severe Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Kessel Aharon , Helou Wissam , Bamberger Ellen , Sabo Edmond , Nusem David , Panassof Josef , Toubi Elias
Published: May 2010

Background: Elevated IgE levels in patients with chronic urticaria have been noted previously, but the significance of these findings has not been appreciated. Objective: To measure the IgE levels in such patients and to examine the relationship between these levels and urticarial severity, autologous serum skin test, anti-thyroid antibodies and duration. Methods: Serum total IgE levels from 203 patients with chronic urticaria were measured and compared with nonatopic individuals. Additionally, patients were assessed for urticarial severity, the presence of autologous serum skin test and anti-thyroid antibodies. Results: Of the chronic urticaria patients, 47 (23.2%) were classified as mild, whereas 67 (33%) were classified as having moderate and 89 (43.8%) as having severe chronic urticaria. Total IgE levels were elevated, above 175 U/ml, in 69/203 (34%) of patients, compared with 7/81 (8.6%) of healthy controls (p < 0.001). A significant association between increased total IgE and chronic urticaria severity was found. Whereas 93% of patients with increased level of total IgE suffered from moderate-to-severe chronic urticaria, this was observed in only 69% of patients with normal IgE (p < 0.0001). Autologous serum skin test and anti-thyroid antibodies were positive in 59/163 (36%) and 28/189 (15%) patients, respectively. A significant association between increased total IgE levels and the presence of autologous serum skin test, anti-thyroid antibodies and urticarial duration lasting more than 25 months (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001 and p = 0.021, respectively) was also detected. Conclusions: Total serum IgE levels are frequently elevated in patients with chronic urticaria and these are associated with disease severity and duration.
Th2 Immune Response Plays a Critical Role in the Development of Nickel-Induced Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Niiyama Shiro , Tamauchi Hidekazu , Amoh Yasuyuki , Terashima Masazumi , Matsumura Yukiko , Kanoh Maho , Habu Sonoko , Komotori Jun , Katsuoka Kensei
Published: May 2010

Background:The precise roles of T helper (Th)1-type and Th2-type cytokine responses in nickel (Ni)-induced allergic contact dermatitis have not yet been clearly defined. We investigated the involvement of Th2 cytokines in Ni-induced contact hypersensitivity reaction using GATA-3 transgenic (Tg) mice. Methods: A Ni-titanium (Ti) alloy was implanted under the skin of GATA-3 Tg mice. A Ni solution was then injected 1 month after sensitization. The ear swelling response was measured at several time points after the injection; the cytokine levels in the skin were measured at 48 h after injection, and the serum levels of IgE were measured 1 month after injection. In addition, purified CD4+ splenic cells obtained from the GATA-3 Tg mice sensitized with the Ni-Ti alloy were infused into Rag-2–/– mice, and the ear swelling response of these mice after a further challenge with Ni solution was also measured. Results:Marked ear swelling and elevated serum IgE levels and skin tissue levels of IL-4 were observed in Ni-Ti-sensitized GATA-3 Tg mice. The Rag-2–/– mice transfused with the CD4+ splenic cells from the Ni-Ti alloy sensitized GATA-3 Tg mice showed a significantly more pronounced ear swelling response than the control mice. Conclusion: We confirmed the participation of Th2-type immune reactions in Ni-induced allergy using GATA-3 Tg mice.
Local Angioedema following Sun Exposures: A Report of Five Cases
Authors: Calzavara-Pinton Piergiacomo , Sala Raffaella , Venturini Marina , Rossi Maria Teresa , Tosoni Cinzia , Lodi Rizzini Fabio , Zane Cristina
Published: May 2010

Angioedema is a hereditary or acquired disease characterized by localized non-pitting swelling of the subcutaneous tissue which can affect either skin or mucous membranes. Acquired angioedema can often be related to a heterogeneous group of etiological factors including physical stimuli, although up to 38% of cases remain idiopathic. We describe 5 patients who developed an angioedema following sun exposures. All patients reported an intensely stinging angioedema strictly limited to face and extremities, when exposed to solar light. Urticarial wheals were never observed or reported by patients, and oral antihistamines proved to be of no help in preventing or improving the condition of lesions. Laboratory and phototesting data allowed ruling out all other acquired or inherited diseases characterized by photosensitivity. We propose that solar angioedema should be considered a novel clinical entity.
The moderating role of optimism on politics-outcomes relationships: A test of competing perspectives
Authors: Hochwarter Wayne A , Thompson Kenneth R
Published: May 2010

Research to date has assumed that politics perceptions lead to uniformly negative outcomes. Recent studies, however, advocate examining theoretically relevant dispositional factors capable of differentially predicting politics perceptions—work outcome relationships. One individual difference factor possessing considerable scholarly merit in this regard is optimism. Building on recent research, the politics perceptions—optimism relationship was examined in a series of three studies. In particular, our objective was to determine whether optimism intensified or neutralized the potentially negative effects of perceived politics on job satisfaction and tension. Across samples, findings confirmed a moderating effect; notably, politics triggered increased stress and lower satisfaction for individuals with higher levels of optimism. In contrast, stress and satisfaction remained largely unaffected for less optimistic individuals reporting elevated levels of politics. These findings, which suggest that optimism may be associated with undesirable effects in threat situations, contradicts the preponderance of research affirming favorable stress reactions.
‘I feel like a foreign agent’: NGOs and corporate social responsibility interventions into Third World child labor
Authors: Farzad Rafi Khan  , Westwood Robert , Boje David M
Published: May 2010

A field study focused on a Western-led Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) intervention into Pakistan’s soccer ball industry is used to explore the dynamics surrounding local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) staff charged with implementation. Those dynamics include the post-colonial conditions pervasive in Third World contexts that frame the perception, interpretation, and reaction to Western interventions. NGO staff must navigate these conditions, which impel them into multiple subject positions and contradictory rationalities resulting in unsatisfactory experiences. Like many Western-led interventions resting on universalistic, paternalistic, de-contextualizing, and atomistic assumptions, this one brought negative unintended consequences. This leads to a suggested reconfiguration of CSR from a post-colonial perspective insistent on an inclusive ‘bottom-up’, ‘reversed engineered’ approach, wherein CSR problems are traced back to Western multinational corporations’ policies and practices.
Composite Tube Exhibiting Large Deformation under Bending
Authors: Derisi Bijan , Suong Hoa  , Duosheng Xu  , Hojjati Mehdi , Fews Robert
Published: May 2010

Polymer matrix composites provide high specific strength and stiffness. However, their brittleness has prevented them from structural applications that require large deformation. One such application is the cross tubes of helicopter landing gears, which, until now, are solely made of high-grade aluminum alloys. This article shows that with strategic placement of fibers at proper orientations in different layers, it is possible to fabricate composite tubes that exhibit large deformation when subjected to bending loads. A composite tube has been designed, fabricated, and tested. This composite tube was able to support the same load and exhibit large deformation as a high-grade aluminum 7075-T6 tube with similar dimensions. Rationale for the strategy of stacking sequence is presented.
Experimental Study on Fabrication of Al-Al2O3/Grp Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Manna A. , Mahapatra P.B. , Bains H.S.
Published: May 2010

In this study aluminum (Al-6070)/alumina (Al2O3), and Al-6070/ graphite (Gr) reinforced particles metal-matrix composites (MMCs) are fabricated by melt-stirring technique. The MMCs bars and plates are prepared with varying the reinforced particles volume fraction ranging from 5% to 15%. The average reinforced particles size of alumina (Al2O 3) and graphite (Grp) are 23 μm and 53 μm, respectively. The stirring process was carried out at 200 rev/min rotating speed by graphite impeller for 15 min. The microstructure and mechanical properties are investigated on prepared MMCs. It was observed that the hardness of the composite is increased with increasing of reinforced particle volume fraction. The tensile strength and impact strength both are decreased with rising of reinforced volume fraction. The prepared composite plates are welded by gas welding with Al-Si-base filler metal. Rockwell hardness test was conducted and presented the test result for un-welded and welded zone.
Structural Performance of Sandwich Wall Panels with Different Foam Core Densities in One-way Bending
Authors: Sharaf Tarek , Shawkat Waleed , Fam Amir
Published: May 2010

The flexural behavior of a new sandwich panel proposed for cladding of buildings is studied. The panel is fabricated by laminating two glass fiber-reinforced polymer skins to a prefabricated polyurethane foam core. Two different densities for the core are explored, namely; a 0.31 kN/m3, referred to herein as ‘soft’ foam, and a 0.63 kN/m3, referred to as ‘hard’ foam. Ten 1500 × 300 × 76 mm3 panels were tested in flexure. For each core density, three similar panels were tested to establish the reproducibility of test results as a measure of quality control of fabrication. The panels were tested in three-point and four-point bending as well as under uniform load. The effect of wind pressure and suction was simulated for some panels by applying cyclic bending. It was shown that flexural strength and stiffness increased substantially, by 165% and 113%, respectively, as the core density was doubled. The contributions of shear deformation of the soft and hard cores to mid-span deflection were 75% and 50%, respectively. Panels with soft cores were vulnerable to localized effects under concentrated loads, and suffered inwards wrinkling of the compression skin at a lower ultimate strength. Low cycle fatigue resulted in some residual deflection upon unloading but insignificant stiffness degradation.