bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Expression of Embryonic Liver Development Genes in Hepatitis C Induced Cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Behnke Martha , Reimers Mark , Fisher Robert
Published: September 2012

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a difficult disease to study even after a decade of genomic analysis. Patient and disease heterogeneity, differences in statistical methods and multiple testing issues have resulted in a fragmented understanding of the molecular basis of tumor biology. Some researchers have suggested that HCC appears to share pathways with embryonic development. Therefore we generated targeted hypotheses regarding changes in developmental genes specific to the liver in HCV-cirrhosis and HCV-HCC. We obtained microarray studies from 30 patients with HCV-cirrhosis and 49 patients with HCV-HCC and compared to 12 normal livers. Genes specific to non-liver development have known associations with other cancer types but none were expressed in either adult liver or tumor tissue, while 98 of 179 (55%) genes specific to liver development had differential expression between normal and cirrhotic or HCC samples. We found genes from each developmental stage dysregulated in tumors compared to normal and cirrhotic samples. Although there was no single tumor marker, we identified a set of genes (Bone Morphogenetic Protein inhibitors GPC3, GREM1, FSTL3, and FST) in which at least one gene was over-expressed in 100% of the tumor samples. Only five genes were differentially expressed exclusively in late-stage tumors, indicating that while developmental genes appear to play a profound role in cirrhosis and malignant transformation, they play a limited role in late-stage HCC.
Effect of Smart Rotor Control Using a Deformable Trailing Edge Flap on Load Reduction under Normal and Extreme Turbulence
Authors: Yu Wei , Zhang Ming Ming , Xu Jian Zhong
Published: September 2012

This paper presents a newly developed aero-servo-elastic platform for implementing smart rotor control and shows its effectiveness with aerodynamic loads on large-scale offshore wind turbines. The platform was built by improving the FAST/Aerodyn codes with the integration of an external deformable trailing edge flap controller in the Matlab/Simulink software. Smart rotor control was applied to an Upwind/NREL 5 MW reference wind turbine under various operating wind conditions in accordance with the IEC Normal Turbulence Model (NTM) and Extreme Turbulence Model (ETM). Results showed that, irrespective of whether the NTM or ETM case was considered, aerodynamic load in terms of blade flapwise root moment and tip deflection were effectively reduced. Furthermore, the smart rotor control also positively affected generator power, pitch system and tower load. These results laying a foundation for a future migration of the “smart rotor control” concept into the design of large-scale offshore wind turbines.
An Innovative Reconfigurable Integrated Converter Topology Suitable for Distributed Generation
Authors: Rizzo Renato , Tricoli Pietro , Spina Ivan
Published: September 2012

The electricity market and environmental concerns, with wide utilization of renewable sources, have improved the diffusion of distributed generation units changing the operations of distribution grids from passive networks to microgrids. A microgrid includes a cluster of electrical loads, energy storage devices and microsources, which provide both power and heat to their local area. A microgrid has usually one connection point to the utility grid through power electronic converters placed at customers’ sites. This paper analyses a Reconfigurable Integrated Converter (RIC) used for a domestic microgrid with inputs from the AC mains and photovoltaic arrays, and two DC outputs at different voltage levels. A RIC as a dual-boost DC-DC converter is proposed, modelled and analysed in the paper. The advantages of such a topology in comparison with traditional boost converters are outlined. Reported simulations results give evidence on the controllability of this converter and the capability of achieving the desired voltage outputs with reduced ripple.
Optimization to Low Temperature Activity in Psychrophilic Enzymes
Authors: Struvay Caroline , Feller Georges
Published: September 2012

Psychrophiles, i.e., organisms thriving permanently at near-zero temperatures, synthesize cold-active enzymes to sustain their cell cycle. These enzymes are already used in many biotechnological applications requiring high activity at mild temperatures or fast heat-inactivation rate. Most psychrophilic enzymes optimize a high activity at low temperature at the expense of substrate affinity, therefore reducing the free energy barrier of the transition state. Furthermore, a weak temperature dependence of activity ensures moderate reduction of the catalytic activity in the cold. In these naturally evolved enzymes, the optimization to low temperature activity is reached via destabilization of the structures bearing the active site or by destabilization of the whole molecule. This involves a reduction in the number and strength of all types of weak interactions or the disappearance of stability factors, resulting in improved dynamics of active site residues in the cold. Considering the subtle structural adjustments required for low temperature activity, directed evolution appears to be the most suitable methodology to engineer cold activity in biological catalysts.
Combination of Oxyanion Gln114 Mutation and Medium Engineering to Influence the Enantioselectivity of Thermophilic Lipase from Geobacillus zalihae
Authors: Wahab Roswanira Abdul , Basri Mahiran , Rahman Mohd Basyaruddin Abdul , Rahman Raja Noor Zaliha Raja Abdul , Salleh Abu Bakar , Leow Thean Chor
Published: September 2012

The substitution of the oxyanion Q114 with Met and Leu was carried out to investigate the role of Q114 in imparting enantioselectivity on T1 lipase. The mutation improved enantioselectivity in Q114M over the wild-type, while enantioselectivity in Q114L was reduced. The enantioselectivity of the thermophilic lipases, T1, Q114L and Q114M correlated better with log p as compared to the dielectric constant and dipole moment of the solvents. Enzyme activity was good in solvents with log p < 3.5, with the exception of hexane which deviated substantially. Isooctane was found to be the best solvent for the esterification of (R,S)-ibuprofen with oleyl alcohol for lipases Q114M and Q114L, to afford E values of 53.7 and 12.2, respectively. Selectivity of T1 was highest in tetradecane with E value 49.2. Solvents with low log p reduced overall lipase activity and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) completely inhibited the lipases. Ester conversions, however, were still low. Molecular sieves employed as desiccant were found to adversely affect catalysis in the lipase variants, particularly in Q114M. The higher desiccant loading also increased viscosity in the reaction and further reduced the efficiency of the lipase-catalyzed esterifications.
Cellular Delivery of Doxorubicin via pH-Controlled Hydrazone Linkage Using Multifunctional Nano Vehicle Based on Poly(β-L-Malic Acid)
Authors: Patil Rameshwar , Portilla-Arias Jose , Ding Hui , Konda Bindu , Rekechenetskiy Arthur , Inoue Satoshi , Black Keith L. , Holler Eggehard , Ljubimova Julia Y.
Published: September 2012

Doxorubicin (DOX) is currently used in cancer chemotherapy to treat many tumors and shows improved delivery, reduced toxicity and higher treatment efficacy when being part of nanoscale delivery systems. However, a major drawback remains its toxicity to healthy tissue and the development of multi-drug resistance during prolonged treatment. This is why in our work we aimed to improve DOX delivery and reduce the toxicity by chemical conjugation with a new nanoplatform based on polymalic acid. For delivery into recipient cancer cells, DOX was conjugated via pH-sensitive hydrazone linkage along with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to a biodegradable, non-toxic and non-immunogenic nanoconjugate platform: poly(β-L-malic acid) (PMLA). DOX-nanoconjugates were found stable under physiological conditions and shown to successfully inhibit in vitro cancer cell growth of several invasive breast carcinoma cell lines such as MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB- 468 and of primary glioma cell lines such as U87MG and U251.
Review of Random Phase Encoding in Volume Holographic Storage
Authors: Su Wei-Chia , Sun Ching-Cherng
Published: September 2012

Random phase encoding is a unique technique for volume hologram which can be applied to various applications such as holographic multiplexing storage, image encryption, and optical sensing. In this review article, we first review and discuss diffraction selectivity of random phase encoding in volume holograms, which is the most important parameter related to multiplexing capacity of volume holographic storage. We then review an image encryption system based on random phase encoding. The alignment of phase key for decryption of the encoded image stored in holographic memory is analyzed and discussed. In the latter part of the review, an all-optical sensing system implemented by random phase encoding and holographic interconnection is presented.
Similarities between the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Nuclear Protein EBNA1 and the Pioneer Transcription Factor FoxA: Is EBNA1 a “Bookmarking” Oncoprotein that Alters the Host Cell Epigenotype?
Authors: Niller Hans Helmut , Minarovits Janos
Published: September 2012

EBNA1, a nuclear protein expressed in all EBV-associated neoplasms is indispensable for the maintenance of the viral episomes in latently infected cells. EBNA1 may induce genetic alterations by upregulating cellular recombinases, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and affecting p53 levels and function. All these changes may contribute to tumorigenesis. In this overview we focus, however, on the epigenetic alterations elicited by EBNA1 by drawing a parallel between EBNA1 and the FoxA family of pioneer transcription factors. Both EBNA1 and FoxA induce local DNA demethylation, nucleosome destabilization and bind to mitotic chromosomes. Local DNA demethylation and nucleosome rearrangement mark active promoters and enhancers. In addition, EBNA1 and FoxA, when associated with mitotic chromatin may “bookmark” active genes and ensure their reactivation in postmitotic cells (epigenetic memory). We speculate that DNA looping induced by EBNA1-EBNA1 interactions may reorganize the cellular genome. Such chromatin loops, sustained in mitotic chromatin similarly to the long-distance interactions mediated by the insulator protein CTCF, may also mediate the epigenetic inheritance of gene expression patterns. We suggest that EBNA1 has the potential to induce patho-epigenetic alterations contributing to tumorigenesis.
Design, Performance and Optimization for Multimodal Radar Operation
Authors: Bhat Surendra S. , Narayanan Ram M. , Rangaswamy Muralidhar
Published: September 2012

This paper describes the underlying methodology behind an adaptive multimodal radar sensor that is capable of progressively optimizing its range resolution depending upon the target scattering features. It consists of a test-bed that enables the generation of linear frequency modulated waveforms of various bandwidths. This paper discusses a theoretical approach to optimizing the bandwidth used by the multimodal radar. It also discusses the various experimental results obtained from measurement. The resolution predicted from theory agrees quite well with that obtained from experiments for different target arrangements.
Modular Lead-Bismuth Fast Reactors in Nuclear Power
Authors: Toshinsky Georgy , Petrochenko Vladimir
Published: September 2012

On the basis of the unique experience of operating reactors with heavy liquid metal coolant–eutectic lead-bismuth alloy in nuclear submarines, the concept of modular small fast reactors SVBR-100 for civilian nuclear power has been developed and validated. The features of this innovative technology are as follows: a monoblock (integral) design of the reactor with fast neutron spectrum, which can operate using different types of fuel in various fuel cycles including MOX fuel in a self-providing mode. The reactor is distinct in that it has a high level of self-protection and passive safety, it is factory manufactured and the assembled reactor can be transported by railway. Multipurpose application of the reactor is presumed, primarily, it can be used for regional power to produce electricity, heat and for water desalination. The Project is being realized within the framework of state-private partnership with joint venture OJSC “AKME-Engineering” established on a parity basis by the State Atomic Energy Corporation “Rosatom” and the Limited Liability Company “EuroSibEnergo”.
Arylglycine-derivative synthesis via oxidative sp3C–H functionalization of α-amino esters
Authors: Xu Zhanwei , Yu Xiaoqiang , Feng Xiujuan , Bao Ming
Published: September 2012

An efficient method for the synthesis of arylglycine derivatives is described. The oxidative coupling reactions of naphthols and phenols with α-amino esters proceeded smoothly in the presence ofmeta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid as an oxidant under ambient conditions, to produce arylglycine derivatives in satisfactory yields.
Effect of the traditional cooking practice on fumonisin content of maize porridge consumed in the former Transkei region of South Africa
Authors: Shephard G.S. , Rheeder J.P. , van der Westhuizen L.
Published: September 2012

Fumonisin exposure in the rural district of Centane, former Transkei region of South Africa, has largely been determined from surveys of fumonisin levels in home-grown maize kernels collected from household storage cribs, rather than from the traditional cooked dishes. In this current study, five samples of home-grown maize kernels were ground in the conventional manner of the district, i.e. without separation of any kernel components. The contamination levels of total fumonisins (FB1+FB2+FB3) in the resultant meals ranged from 2.130 to 13.27 mg/kg. In each of two separate villages, five volunteer householders each cooked a portion of one of the maize meals into a traditional porridge. The resultant ten porridges were subsequently analysed for fumonisins by HPLC. The mean decrease in total fumonisin levels, based on a dry weight basis and corrected for recovery, was 11.3% (standard deviation 6.9%), confirming that preparation of traditional porridge has only a limited effect on fumonisin exposure in this population.
Managing 3D Multi User Learning Environments - A Case Study on Training Disaster Management
Authors: Perera Indika , Allison Colin , Ajinomoh O. , Miller Alan
Published: September 2012

3D Multi User Virtual Environments (3D MUVE), or commonly known as 3D virtual worlds, have shown proven success in enhancing the present teaching and learner support methodologies. Integrated educational environments that are formed using 3D MUVE can be referred as 3D Multi User Learning Environments (3D MULE). The intrinsic rich and dynamic features of 3D virtual worlds can sufficiently increase the student engagement with the learning tasks in 3D MULE. However, with the facilitation for diverse learning activities, 3D MULE can introduce a new set of challenges for the teachers and students; therefore, suitable management strategies for 3D MULE can be essential for success. In this research, we have proposed a framework for managing 3D MULE using policy considerations and a guidance tool to facilitate policy implementations. This paper presents the evaluation of the proposed strategies for making policy considerations to manage 3D MULE and the developed user guidance tool. To increase the accuracy while evaluating for real educational uses, we selected a teaching and training environment in use as the case study. This case study, a 3D MULE supported learning aid for humanitarian disaster management, provided valuable and supportive feedback to validate the completed work while shaping the orientation of the future research on facilitating 3D MULE management.
An Usual Approach to Treatment of a Case of Multidrug Resistance Pseudomonas aeruginosa Peritonitis: Parenteral and Intraperitoneal Aminoglycosides and Parenteral Colistin
Authors: May Ian , Abu-Khdeir Maha , Blackwood Roland Alexander
Published: September 2012

Infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa are becoming more common and increasingly more difficult to treat due to the continued development of drug resistance. While sensitivity to colistin (polymyxin E) is well known, it is frequently avoided due to concerns of nephrotoxicity. Reported here is a case of a multi-drug resistance pseudomonal typhlitis, bacteremia and pleural cavity infection that required significant intensive care, and serial abdominal washouts. Intra-peritoneal tobramycin in combination with broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics including colistin were used. Several instillations of tobramycin into the abdominal cavity along with concomitant IV administration of colistin, ceftazidime and tobramycin and per os colistin, tobramycin and nystatin resulted in the clearance of the pseudomonal infection without any evidence of toxicity from the treatment. Intra-abdominal tobramycin with parenteral colistin therapy can be used in complicated clinical settings with appropriate nephroprotection.
Guidelines for ultrasound owners and owners of clinics, diagnostic centres, nursing homes and hospitals
Authors: Mani Sanjeev
Published: September 2012

These are guidelines that are required for ultrasound owners for registration and use of ultrasound machines and are applicable across India. A brief description of the violations and penalties has also been listed.
Análise da percepção dos idodos integrantes de grupo de práticas na atenção primária: aspectos motivacionais e o fazer multiprofissional
Authors: Oliveira Braulio Nogueira de , Feitosa Wellington Gomes , Ferreira Heraldo Simões
Published: September 2012

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-8042.2012v24n38p149O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar as percepções dos idosos, acerca dos aspectos motivacionais e nível de significância/importância das práticas corporais, bem como do trabalho multiprofissional desenvolvido pela equipe de saúde. O estudo caracterizase como descritivo e exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, em que se utilizou o método da análise de conteúdo. Foram entrevistados 14 idosos. As medidas terapêuticas, atreladas a alguns resultados positivos e a promoção da saúde de maneira geral foram os principais motivos elencados. Quanto ao fazer multiprofissional notou-se atuação interdisciplinar pouco efetiva. Diante disso, uma ressignificação desses espaços se faz necessária.
Microstructure and hydraulic properties of biological soil crusts on sand dunes: a comparison between arid and temperate climates
Authors: Fischer T. , Yair A. , Veste M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. We studied the relationships between crust microstructure, infiltration and water holding capacity under arid and temperate conditions (Factor A: Climate) on biological soil crusts (BSCs) sampled along a~catena on mobile sand dunes (Factor B: Catena). The arid study site was located near Nizzana, Israel (precipitation: 86 mm a−1, PET: ~2500 mm a−1) and the temperate site near Lieberose, Germany (precipitation: 569 mm a−1, PET: ~780 mm a−1). BSCs were sampled near the dune crest, at the centre of the dune slope and at the dune base at each site. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize BSC morphology and microstructure. Infiltration was determined using microinfiltrometry under controlled moisture conditions in the lab. Water holding capacities were determined after water saturation of the dry BSCs. Wettability of the crusts was characterized using a "repellency index", which was calculated from water and ethanol sorptivities. Irrespective of the climate, an accumulation of fine particles in the BSCs was found, increasing along the catena from dune crest to dune base. Texture was finer and water holding capacities of the underlying substrate were higher at the arid site, whereas surface wettability was reduced at the temperate site. At both sites, BSCs caused extra water holding capacity compared to the substrate. Infiltration rates decreased along the catena and were generally lower at the dune slope and base of the arid site. A mechanism of crust stabilization is proposed where BSCs benefit from increased texture and biomass mediated water supply, and where the water supply to higher plants was limited due to alteration of physico-chemical surface properties under temperate conditions.
A meta-modelling strategy to identify the critical offshore conditions for coastal flooding
Authors: Rohmer J. , Idier D.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. High water level at the coast may be the result of different combinations of offshore hydrodynamic conditions (e.g. wave characteristics, offshore water level, etc.). Providing the contour of the "critical" set of offshore conditions leading to high water level is of primary importance either to constrain early warning networks based on hydro-meteorological forecast or observations, or for the assessment of the coastal flood hazard return period. The challenge arises from the use of computationally intensive simulators, which prevent the application of a grid approach consisting in extracting the contour through the systematic evaluation of the simulator on a fine design grid defined in the offshore conditions domain. To overcome such a computational difficulty, we propose a strategy based on the kriging meta-modelling technique combined with an adaptive sampling procedure aiming at improving the local accuracy in the regions of the offshore conditions that contribute the most to the estimate of the targeted contour. This methodology is applied to two cases using an idealized site on the Mediterranean coast (southern France): (1) a two-dimensional case to ease the visual analysis and aiming at identifying the combination of offshore water level and of significant wave height; (2) a more complex case aiming at identifying four offshore conditions (offshore water level and offshore wave characteristics: height, direction and period). By using a simulator of moderate computation time cost (a few tens of minutes), the targeted contour can be estimated using a cluster composed of a moderate number of computer units. This reference contour is then compared with the results of the meta-model-based strategy. In both cases, we show that the critical offshore conditions can be estimated with a good level of accuracy using a very limited number (of a few tens) of computationally intensive hydrodynamic simulations.
Bone formation and resorption markers as diagnostic tools for bone metastases evaluation
Authors: Galliera Emanuela , Luzzati Alessandro , Perrucchini Giuseppe , Gagliano Fabio , Mels Ludovica Colloredo , Banfi Giuseppe , Romanelli Massimiliano Marco Corsi , Drago Lorenzo
Published: September 2012

Bone metastases are a frequent complication of several types of cancers. Since bone metastases are difficult to diagnose with the current available approaches, there is a demand for new methods for assessing bone response. In this context, biochemical markers of bone remodeling may provide useful information on bone turnover that, in turn, may reflect disease activity in bone. In this study we tested a panel of bone remodeling markers (distinguishing between bone formation and bone resorption ones) in different groups of cancer patients, so as to evaluate the potential clinical role of the examined bone remodeling markers in the early diagnosis of metastases formation and progression. Among the bone resorption markers, tartrate resistant acid phosphatase 5b (trAP5b) resulted the most specific for the metastatic tumor stage. Both the bone formation markers we analyzed displayed a direct correlation (positive for bone-specific alkaline phosphatase [BAP] and negative for osteocalcin [oc]) with tumor disease progression, ranging from healthy controls to primary tumor and, ultimately, to the metastatic stage. Taken together our results suggest that these markers can be valuable tools to be used, in parallel with traditional methods of metastases diagnosis, in order to monitor more in detail the pathological effect of metastases progression in bone tissue.
p63 expression is a prognostic factor in colorectal cancer
Authors: Guo Hong-Qiang , Huang Guo-Liang , Liu Ou-Fei , Liu Yan-Yan , Yao Zhi-Hua , Yao Shu-Na , Zhao Yan , Liu Tao , Pu Xing-Xiang , Lin Tong-Yu , Yang Shu-Jun
Published: September 2012

p63 is highly expressed in some malignant tumors and is associated with tumorigenesis, invasion and metastasis. The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical significance of p63 in colorectal cancer (CRC). p63 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry in 66 CRC patients. Correlations between p63 expression and clinicopathological factors, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Among the 66 CRC cases, 31 cases (47%) exhibited a high score of p63 expression, while 35 cases (53%) were marked with a low score. The p63 level correlated with peritumoral deposits (p=0.021). The 5-year OS rates in the low p63 score and high p63 score groups were, respectively, 49% and 74% (p<0.001). The 5-year PFS rates in the low p63 score and high p63 score groups were, respectively, 44% and 71% (p<0.001). Univariate analysis revealed that p63 expression was correlated with OS and PFS. Multivariate analysis suggested that p63 expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS (p=0.035). In conclusion, p63 was negatively correlated with peritumoral deposits and positively associated with OS and PFS in CRC. The data suggest that p63 is a potential prognostic factor for CRC.
Thymidylate Synthase Expression and Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer: A Meta-Analysis of Colorectal Cancer Survival Data
Authors: Chen Yao , Yi Cuihua , Liu Lian , Li Bei , Wang Yawei , Wang Xiuwen
Published: September 2012

Background

Although many studies have investigated the prognostic effect of thymidylate synthase (TS) in colorectal cancer, no consensus has been reached. The aim of this meta-analysis was to obtain a more precise estimate of the prognostic significance of TS expression in localized cancers treated by curative resection and adjuvant chemotherapy.

Materials and method

Seventeen eligible studies reporting survival in 2,893 patients stratified by TS expression were pooled using a fixed- or random-effects model. The main outcome measure was hazard ratio (HR).

Results

The overall HR for overall survival was 1.01 (95% CI 0.74–1.39, p=0.947), with an I2 of 64.4%. The total HR for disease-free survival was 1.36 (95% CI 0.97–1.89, p=0.072), with an I2 of 75.8%. In the TS protein-tested subgroup, the total HR for disease-free survival was 1.72 (95% CI 1.02–2.89, p=0.042), with an I2 of 81.3%.

Conclusion

Our meta-analysis showed that, in the adjuvant setting, TS expression does not predict a poorer disease-free survival or a worse overall survival. Therefore, we believe that it is inappropriate to regard TS expression as a prognostic factor for patients with stage II and stage III colorectal cancer treated by surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy.
Improving Hepatitis B Vaccine Efficacy in End-Stage Renal Diseases Patients and Role of Adjuvants
Authors: Somi Mohammad Hossein , Hajipour Babak
Published: September 2012

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a serious global health problem.The prevalence of viral hepatitis is higher in dialysis patients than in the general population because of the opportunity for exposure during the dialysis procedure. Immunization is the most effective way to prevent transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hence the development of acute or chronic hepatitis B. It is well established that patients with end-stage renal disease including dialysis-dependent patients, have an impaired immune response to hepatitis B vaccine. End stage renal diseases (ESRD) patients have lower seroconversion rates compared with the subjects with intact renal function. Moreover, even after the completion of vaccination schedule anti-hepatitis B (anti-HBs) titers of responder dialysis, patients are low and decline logarithmically with time. The impaired efficacy of HBV vaccine in patients with ESRD has been attributed to numerous factors such as immune compromise because of uremia and some other factors. One approach to improve the immunogenicity of existing HBV vaccines is adjuvantation, and it's very important to find more effective adjutants for improving HBV vaccine efficacy. In this paper we have a brief review on recently known new ways for improving HBV vaccine efficacy.
Double-Glide Method Using Cathereep Protective Sheet As a Substitute in Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Toshida Hiroshi , Honda Rio , Matsui Asaki , Matsuzaki Yusuke , Shimizu Yusuke , Seto Takahiko , Ohta Toshihiko , Murakami Akira
Published: September 2012

Purpose. For the insertion of the donor graft in Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK), the double-glide method using a Busin glide and intraocular lens (IOL) glide concomitantly has been shown to be effective. The aim of this report is to evaluate the results for the double-glide method using Cathereep (Nichiban, Tokyo, Japan), a protective sheet made of polyurethane film for medical use, as a substitute for an IOL glide. Materials and Methods. The subjects were 10 eyes of 10 patients with bullous keratopathy. The DSAEK operation was performed, and the double-glide method was used for the donor graft insertion. During the operation, an IOL glide was used for the 5 eyes, and the Cathereep protection sheet was used for the remaining 5 eyes. We trimmed approximately 5 mm wide strips from the nonadhesive area surrounding the Cathereep protection sheet. Results. The donor graft was inserted equally easily with the Cathereep protective sheet and IOL glides and improvement of visual acuity was noted in both groups significantly. A favorable postoperative course was obtained with no perioperative complications including endothelial damage. Conclusions. Cathereep protective sheet can be used as a substitute for an IOL glide for double-glide method in DSAEK.
Elimination of Bisphenol A and Triclosan Using the Enzymatic System of Autochthonous Colombian Forest Fungi
Authors: Arboleda Carolina , Cabana H. , De Pril E. , Jones J. Peter , Jiménez G. A. , Mejía A. I. , Agathos S. N. , Penninckx M. J.
Published: September 2012

Bisphenol A (BPA) and triclosan (TCS) are known or suspected potential endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) which may pose a risk to human health and have an environmental impact. Enzyme preparations containing mainly laccases, obtained from Ganoderma stipitatum and Lentinus swartzii, two autochthonous Colombian forest white rot fungi (WRF), previously identified as high enzyme producers, were used to remove BPA and TCS from aqueous solutions. A Box-Behnken factorial design showed that pH, temperature, and duration of treatment were significant model terms for the elimination of BPA and TCS. Our results demonstrated that these EDCs were extensively removed from 5 mg L−1 solutions after a contact time of 6 hours. Ninety-four percent of TCS and 97.8% of BPA were removed with the enzyme solution from G. stipitatum; 83.2% of TCS and 88.2% of BPA were removed with the L. swartzii enzyme solution. After a 6-hour treatment with enzymes from G. stipitatum and L. swartzii, up to 90% of the estrogenic activity of BPA was lost, as shown by the yeast estrogen screen assay. 2,2-Azino-bis-(3-ethylthiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) was used as a mediator (laccase/mediator system) and significantly improved the laccase catalyzed elimination of BPA and TCS. The elimination of BPA in the absence of a mediator resulted in production of oligomers of molecular weights of 454, 680, and 906 amu as determined by mass spectra analysis. The elimination of TCS in the same conditions produced dimers, trimers, and tetramers of molecular weights of 574, 859, and 1146 amu. Ecotoxicological studies using Daphnia pulex to determine lethal concentration (LC50) showed an important reduction of the toxicity of BPA and TCS solutions after enzymatic treatments. Use of laccases emerges thus as a key alternative in the development of innovative wastewater treatment technologies. Moreover, the exploitation of local biodiversity appears as a potentially promising approach for identifying new efficient strains for biotechnological applications.
Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Analysis and the Endangered Species Act
Authors: Diffenderfer Michelle , Diffenderfer Robert
Published: September 2012

In the July 2012 issue of the Journal, the reach of the secondary and cumulative impacts analyses under the Clean Water Act were discussed and contrasted with their treatment under the National Environmental Policy Act. This article will address the same secondary and cumulative impacts analyses, but under the Endangered Species Act. It also highlights important principles under the statutes most commonly encountered in the federal program of natural resource protection.
Public‐Private Partnerships for Municipal Utilities, Part 2: Governance Models Facing a Revolution
Authors: Baird Gregory M.
Published: September 2012

Water utilities today are under increasing pressure to control costs and become more competitive while complying with increasingly stringent regulatory requirements and maintaining the fiscal and structural integrity of aging infrastructure. In this new economy, water utilities many times are forced to reinvent themselves and undergo some sort of change in order to meet these competing objectives ‐ even if this change involves a change of governance, which is akin to revolution.
Factors Structure of Reasons of Use of Obu-Manuvu Dialect among Indigenous Youth in Marilog District, Davao City, Philippines
Authors: Rica Anna Lou L. , Alburo Daisy M.
Published: September 2012

The study determined the factors structure reasons of use of Obu-Manuvu dialect among the Indigenous youth in Marilog District, Davao City. A survey questionnaire elicited the responds of respondents. Data were analyzed with the use of descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts, percentage and weighted mean. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used. Results showed that majority of the respondents are female, ages 16-20 years old and in their high school level. The respondents strongly agree that they are using their dialect for their cultural integrity, pride, utility and survival. In oral form, they always use their dialect with their co-tribe; oftentimes use it in their school; never use it in their church; sometimes use it in their home and seldom use it in their community. They sometimes use it as a form of endearment when they are texting. There are two significant factors that underlie the structure of reasons of using Obo-Manuvu dialect: preservation of cultural integrity and survival of identity.   Keywords - Obu-Manuvu dialect, indigenous youth, cultural integrity, Davao City
Deliberative democracy and adult civic education
Authors: Carcasson Martín , Sprain Leah
Published: September 2012

Adult education programs should turn to the deliberative democracy movement in order to help their communities better address the “wicked problems” they face.
Exploring the meaning of civic engagement in the United States: Mexican immigrants in central Texas
Authors: Muñoz Linda
Published: September 2012

This chapter explores how Mexican immigrants in a small central Texas town understand their roles and/or responsibilities as citizens in a democratic society regardless of their immigration status in the country.
In Situ Electro‐Mechanical Experiments and Mechanics Modeling of Fracture in Indium Tin Oxide‐Based Multilayer Electrodes
Authors: Peng Cheng , Jia Zheng , Neilson Henry , Li Teng , Lou Jun
Published: September 2012

Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) films are widely used as transparent electrodes in electronic displays and solar cells. However, the small fracture strain of brittle ITO films poses significant challenge to their applications in flexible electronics devices that often undergo large deformation. Inspired by recent development of inorganic/organic hybrid permeation barriers for flexible electronics, we design and fabricate ITO‐based multilayer electrodes with enhanced electro‐mechanical durability. In situ electro‐mechanical experiments of five structural designs of ITO‐based multilayer electrodes are performed to investigate the evolution of crack density and the corresponding variance of electrical resistance of such electrodes. A coherent mechanics model is established to determine the driving force for crack propagation in the ITO layer in these electrodes. The mechanics model suggests that a top protective polymeric coating above and an intermediate polymeric layer below the ITO layer can effectively enhance the mechanical durability of the ITO electrodes by reducing the crack driving force up to 10‐folds. The modeling results offer mechanistic understanding of the in situ experimental measurements of the critical fracture strains of the five types of ITO‐based multilayer electrodes. The findings in this work provide quantitative guidance for the material selection and structural optimization of ITO‐based multilayer transparent electrodes of high mechanical durability.
Insertional translocation of 15q25‐q26 into 11p13 and duplication at 8p23.1 characterized by high resolution arrays in a boy with congenital malformations and aniridia
Authors: Simioni Milena , Vieira Társis Paiva , Sgardioli Ilária Cristina , Freitas Érika Lopes , Rosenberg Carla , Maurer‐Morelli Cláudia Vianna , Lopes‐Cendes Iscia , Fett‐Conte Agnes Cristina , Gil‐da‐Silva‐Lopes Vera Lúcia
Published: September 2012

We report on a boy presenting submucous cleft palate, hydronephrosis, ventriculoseptal defect, aniridia, and developmental delay. Additional material on 11p13 was cytogenetically visible and array analyses identified a duplicated segment on 15q25‐26 chromosome region; further, array analyses revealed a small deletion (49 kb) at 11p13 region involving the ELP4 gene and a duplication at 8p23.1. Results were confirmed with both molecular and molecular cytogenetics techniques. Possibilities for etiological basis of clinical phenotype are discussed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The quality‐constrained scheduling problem in plastics compounding
Authors: Younes Abdunnaser , Elkamel Ali , Leung Michelle , Tzoganakis Costas , Lohi Ali
Published: September 2012

Interest is increasing in plastic compounding plants that offer tailor‐made resins. Such plants produce a wide range of products in small quantities and with frequent changeovers. The underlying scheduling problem has been extensively researched; however, the concept of incorporating qualities of the finished product in the problem of plastics compounding has not been considered.

We express product qualities as an additional problem constraint so that the production schedule ensures product quality. The additional constraint makes this mixed integer nonlinear program (MINLP) problem more difficult to solve. Several case studies are solved to illustrate the utility of the proposed approach.

Experiments demonstrated that qualities of the finished product can be ensured a priori if the appropriate relations are developed and integrated in the optimisation model. As well, this paper provides insight into the economic aspects of the scheduling problem under consideration. Experiments showed that none of the cost components (operation, raw material, inventory, penalty or utilities) can alone play the role of the optimisation criterion. © 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Infective Endocarditis in the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Era: Comprehensive Review of a Rare Complication
Authors: Eisen Alon , Shapira Yaron , Sagie Alex , Kornowski Ran
Published: September 2012

In recent years, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has emerged as a revolutionary alternative for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for the treatment of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis in patients at high risk for surgery. Prosthetic aortic valve endocarditis is a serious complication after SAVR with high morbidity and mortality. Although numerous TAVR procedures have been performed worldwide, infective endocarditis (IE) after TAVR was reported in the literature in few cases only and in 0% to 2.3% of patients enrolled in large TAVR cohorts. Our aim was to review the literature for IE following TAVR and to discuss the diagnostic and management strategies of this rare complication. Ten case reports of IE after TAVR were identified, 8 of which were published as case reports and 2 of which were presented in congresses. Infective endocarditis occurred in a mean time period of 186 days (median, 90 days) after TAVR. Most cases were characterized by fever and elevated inflammatory markers. Infective endocarditis after TAVR shared some common characteristics with IE after SAVR, yet it has some unique features. Echocardiographic findings included leaflet vegetations, severe mitral regurgitation with rupture of the anterior leaflet, and left ventricle outflow tract to left atrium fistula. Bacteriologic findings included several atypical bacteria or fungi. Cases of IE were managed either conservatively by antibiotics and/or using surgery, and the overall prognosis was poor. Infective endocarditis after TAVR deserves prompt diagnosis and treatment. Until further evidence is present, IE after TAVR should be managed according to SAVR guidelines with modifications as needed on a case‐by‐case basis.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Safety of Aspirin Desensitization in Patients With Reported Aspirin Allergy and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: McMullan Kathryn L. , Wedner H. James
Published: September 2012

Background:

Aspirin (ASA) is the drug of choice in patients with coronary artery disease for primary and secondary prevention. This poses a problem for those patients reporting hypersensitivity to this drug or class of drugs.

Hypothesis:

Desensitization to ASA may be carried out safely and effectively in patients with reported ASA or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) hypersensitivity needing ASA for cardiac indications. Our 7‐step protocol is one choice for a rapid desensitization protocol.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted evaluating ASA desensitization in patients with reported ASA or NSAID hypersensitivity and a cardiac indication for ASA.

Results:

In 160 evaluations over 15 years, 89 desensitizations were performed in both the inpatient and outpatient setting with only 16 reactions (18%). Eleven of these 16 patients (68.7%) were able to take daily ASA. Twenty‐six desensitization procedures were performed with our 7‐step rapid desensitization protocol in 10 inpatients and 16 outpatients with 3 reactions (18.75% of reactions). Initial reaction to ASA involving angioedema and reacting to ASA within the past year increased the risk of having a reaction to desensitization.

Conclusions:

Desensitization may be safely performed in patients with reported ASA or NSAID hypersensitivity and a cardiac indication for ASA. Our 7‐step rapid protocol may be used in both the inpatient and outpatient setting to desensitize these patients. Patients who had angioedema with ASA ingestion or a reaction to ASA within the past year are at higher risk for reaction during the desensitization protocol.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Silver‐Palladium Nanoalloys Modified Carbon Ionic Liquid Electrode with Enhanced Electrocatalytic Activity Towards Formaldehyde Oxidation
Authors: Safavi Afsaneh , Momeni Safieh , Tohidi Maryam
Published: September 2012

Electrocatalysis of the oxidation of formaldehyde on silver‐palladium‐modified carbon ionic liquid electrode (AgPd/CILE) was investigated in 0.1 M NaOH. The electrochemical performance of the AgPd/CILE was compared with those of Pd/CILE and Ag/CILE. Ag plays an important role in the catalytic performance of AgPd nanocatalyst and yields an excellent antifouling effect. Amperometric measurements showed that AgPd/CILE is a promising sensor for the detection of formaldehyde in the range of 10.0 µM–70.0 mM with a sensitivity of 240.6 µA mM−1 cm−2 and a detection limit of 2 µM. The method is free from interference of methanol, ethanol and formic acid.
Proteasome Inhibitor Anticancer Drug Bortezomib Redox Behaviour at a Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Golea Diana Andreea , Diculescu Victor C. , Tugulea Laura , Oliveira Brett Ana Maria
Published: September 2012

Bortezomib is the first therapeutic proteasome inhibitor used for cancer treatment. The redox behaviour of bortezomib was investigated over a wide pH range. Bortezomib undergoes electrochemical oxidation and reduction in independent mechanisms. The oxidation of bortezomib is pH‐dependent for pH<7.5 and occurs with the transfer of one electron and one proton involving the formation of two electroactive oxidation products. The reduction of bortezomib is quasi‐reversible, pH‐dependent, involving the transfer of two electrons and two protons and does not involve the formation of electroactive products. The value of pKa≈7.5 was determined. Mechanisms for oxidation and reduction were proposed.
Quantitative approaches for assessing dose–response relationships in genetic toxicology studies
Authors: Gollapudi B.B. , Johnson G.E. , Hernandez L.G. , Pottenger L.H. , Dearfield K.L. , Jeffrey A.M. , Julien E. , Kim J.H. , Lovell D.P. , MacGregor J.T. , Moore M.M. , van Benthem J. , White P.A. , Zeiger E. , Thybaud V.
Published: September 2012

Genetic toxicology studies are required for the safety assessment of chemicals. Data from these studies have historically been interpreted in a qualitative, dichotomous “yes” or “no” manner without analysis of dose–response relationships. This article is based upon the work of an international multi‐sector group that examined how quantitative dose–response relationships for in vitro and in vivo genetic toxicology data might be used to improve human risk assessment. The group examined three quantitative approaches for analyzing dose–response curves and deriving point‐of‐departure (POD) metrics (i.e., the no‐observed‐genotoxic‐effect‐level (NOGEL), the threshold effect level (Td), and the benchmark dose (BMD)), using data for the induction of micronuclei and gene mutations by methyl methanesulfonate or ethyl methanesulfonate in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that the POD descriptors obtained using the different approaches are within the same order of magnitude, with more variability observed for the in vivo assays. The different approaches were found to be complementary as each has advantages and limitations. The results further indicate that the lower confidence limit of a benchmark response rate of 10% (BMDL10) could be considered a satisfactory POD when analyzing genotoxicity data using the BMD approach. The models described permit the identification of POD values that could be combined with mode of action analysis to determine whether exposure(s) below a particular level constitutes a significant human risk. Subsequent analyses will expand the number of substances and endpoints investigated, and continue to evaluate the utility of quantitative approaches for analysis of genetic toxicity dose–response data. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.