bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twelve years of ice velocity change in Antarctica observed by RADARSAT-1 and -2 satellite radar interferometry
Authors: Scheuchl B. , Mouginot J. , Rignot E.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. We report changes in ice velocity of a 6.5 million km2 region around South Pole encompassing the Ronne/Filchner and Ross Ice Shelves and a significant portion of the ice streams and glaciers that constitute their catchment areas. Using the first full interferometric synthetic-aperture radar (InSAR) coverage of the region completed in 2009 and partial coverage acquired in 1997, we process the data to assemble a comprehensive map of ice velocity changes with a nominal precision of detection of ±3–4 m yr–1. The largest observed changes, an increase in speed of 100 m yr–1 in 12 yr, are near the frontal regions of the large ice shelves and are associated with the slow detachment of large tabular blocks that will eventually form icebergs. On the Ross Ice Shelf, our data reveal a slow down of Mercer and Whillans Ice Streams with a 12 yr velocity difference of 50 m yr–1 (16.7 %) and 100 m yr–1 (25.3 %) at their grounding lines. The slow down spreads 450 km upstream of the grounding line and more than 500 km onto the shelf, i.e., far beyond what was previously known. Also slowing in the Ross Ice Shelf sector are MacAyeal Ice Stream and Byrd Glacier with a 12 yr velocity difference near their grounding lines of 30 m yr–1 (6.7 %) and 35 m yr–1 (4.1 %), respectively. Bindschadler Ice Stream is faster by 20 m yr–1 (5 %). Most of these changes in glacier speed extend on the Ross Ice Shelf along the ice streams' flow lines. At the mouth of the Filchner/Ronne Ice Shelves, the 12 yr difference in glacier speed is below the 8 % level. We detect the largest slow down with a 12 yr velocity difference of up to 30 m yr–1 on Slessor and Recovery Glaciers, equivalent to 6.7 % and 3.3 %, respectively. Foundation Ice Stream shows a modest speed up (30 m yr–1 or 5 %). No change is detected on Bailey, Rutford, and Institute Ice Streams. On the Filchner Ice Shelf proper, ice slowed down rather uniformly with a 12 yr velocity difference of 50 m yr–1, or 5 % of its ice front speed, which we attribute to an 12 km advance in its ice front position. Overall, we conclude that the ice streams and ice shelves in this broad region, in contrast with their counterparts in the Amundsen and Bellingshausen seas, exhibit changes in ice dynamics that have almost no impact on the overall ice balance of the region.
From Physiology to Prevention: Further remarks on a physiological imperative
Authors: Jouanjean B
Published: May 2012

Physiology, is the fundamental and functional expression of life. It is the study of all the representative functions of Man in all his capacities, and in particular, his capacity to work. It is very possible to establish a link between a physiological and physiopathological state, the capacity of work and the economy, which can be understood as the articulation between the physiological capacities of Man and the production of work. If these functions are innately acquired by Man they are likewise maintained by regulatory functions throughout life. The stability of these regulatory mechanisms represent the state of good health. The management of this state, constitutes Primary Prevention where both chronic and acute physiopathology defines an alteration in these regulatory mechanisms. We deduce from this reasoning that a tripartite management adapted to the physiological situation is viable and that by choosing parameters specific to individual and collective behavior, it is possible to inject, and combine, at each level and to each demand in order to budget a healthcare system in a more balanced and equitable way.
Spontaneous hemorrhagic Descemet membrane detachment causing pupillary block
Authors: Eide Macpherson James F. , Slettedal Jon Klokk , Drolsum Liv , Thilesen Trond
Published: May 2012

Purpose

To present a unique case of a 65-year-old man using warfarin who presented with acute unilateral loss of vision due to hemorrhagic Descemet membrane detachment (DMD) with pupillary block and elevated intraocular pressure and its subsequent treatment and challenges.

Methods

Case report.

Results

Clinical examination showed a visual acuity of finger counting, central DMD with near contact to the iris and premembrane hemorrhage, an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 19 mmHg, and normal pupillary reaction. An International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 4.9 was treated with dose reduction and vitamin K. Twelve hours later the patient re-presented with an acute increase in pain and an IOP of 78 mmHg with pupillary block and iris bombé. YAG-laser membranotomy, anterior chamber paracentesis, and maximal topical and systemic therapy were unsuccessful in reducing the IOP. Surgical management, including irrigation and aspiration of blood, led to a normalization of the IOP. Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) resulted in a visual acuity of 0.3. Deep stromal/pre-Descemet membrane neovascularization was found bilaterally, suspicious for a previous interstitial keratitis.

Conclusions

The previously unreported complication of pupillary block following a pre-Descemet membrane hemorrhage was treated successfully for the first reported time, in a 2-step DSAEK. This indicates that DSAEK could be considered as a treatment option for DMD, especially in traumatic circumstances.
Relationship between PTH and PSA Values in Patients with Pathological Finding of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Romeo Salvatore , Napoli Giancarlo , Melloni Guglielmo , Dispensa Nino , Melloni Darwin
Published: May 2012

The functional relationship between parathyroid glands and prostatic gland is commonly very well known. The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between serum levels of PTH and serum levels of PSA in patients with pathological finding of BPH. According to 261 transrectal ultrasound-guided prostatic biopsies performed from March 2009 to March 2010, 75 patients, responding to our inclusion criteria, were selected. 26 patients (34.6%) ended the study. All patients with high serum levels of PSA (>4 ng/mL), with histological diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia, underwent the assay of serum levels of PTH. We observed high levels of PTH (> 66 pg/mL) in 9 patients (35.2%).
Development of Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Thrombolysis Device for Blood Clot Emulsification
Authors: Li Tao , Ma Jan , Kumar S. Dinesh , Low Adrian F.
Published: May 2012

Ultrasonic thrombolysis is an effective method to treat blood clot thrombus in a blood vessel. This paper reports an OD 5 mm and an OD 10 mm piezoelectric thrombolysis transducers that vibrate longitudinally and generate a pressure field at the distal vibration tip. Studies of vibration mode, pressure field pattern, and cavitation effect were carried out. The transducers were also tested for blood clot emulsification. The results indicate both transducers are effective. The OD 10 mm transducer with a long transmission wire has shown to provide a strong cavitation effect and work effectively at low frequency, high amplitude, and high power conditions. The OD 5 mm transducer was found to operate effectively under higher frequency, low amplitude, and lower power conditions. The cavitation effect is moderate, which facilitates precision and controls over obtaining a more uniform emulsification result.
Experimental Characterisation of the Far-Field Noise in Axial Fans Fitted with Shaped Tip End-Plates
Authors: Bianchi S. , Corsini A. , Sheard A. G.
Published: May 2012

The authors investigate the far-field noise emissions of a datum fan blade fitted with tip end-plate geometries, originally designed to control the leakage vortex swirl level. The end-plate geometries influence the tip-leakage flow, vortex formation, and swirl level. In doing so, the end-plate geometries influence the sound-power levels. After an evaluation of fan rotors' aerodynamic performance, the study compares the rotors' far-field noise signature characterised in terms of sound-power and pressure-level spectra to enable and assess the end-plate acoustic pay-off. The investigation attempts to establish a cause-and-effect relationship between the tip-flow dynamics and the radiated sound fields, exploring the diverse directivity patterns. The authors found a tonal reduction, due to the enhanced blade-tip end-plates and clarified the relevance of the tip features influencing the radial distribution of the noise sources using coherence analysis. The modified multiple-vortex breakdown end-plate design was effective in reducing the broadband noise, giving an improvement in the frequency range of the turbulent noise.
Market Structure Scenarios in International Steam Coal Trade
Authors: Tröby Johannes , Paulus Moritz
Published: May 2012

The seaborne steam coal market has changed in recent years; demand has grown fast, important players have emerged, and since 2007 prices have increased significantly and remained relatively high. In this paper, we analyze steam coal market equilibria in the years 2006 and 2008 by testing for two possible market structure scenarios: perfect competition and an oligopoly setup with major exporters competing in quantities. The assumed oligopoly scenario cannot explain market equilibria for any year. While we find that the competitive model simulates market equilibria well in 2006, the competitive model is yet not able to reproduce real market outcomes in 2008. The analysis shows that not all available supply capacity was utilized in 2008. We conclude that either unknown capacity bottlenecks or more sophisticated non-competitive strategies were the cause for the high prices in 2008.
Simulating Security of Supply Effects of the Nabucco and South Stream Projects for the European Natural Gas Market
Authors: Dieckhöner Caroline
Published: May 2012

Because of the decrease in domestic production in Europe, additional natural gas volumes will be required. In addition to Nord Stream, the major import pipeline projects, Nabucco and South Stream, have been announced to provide further gas supplies to Europe. This raises the question concerning whether and how these projects contribute to the European Union’s focus on security of supply. Applying the natural gas infrastructure model TIGER, this paper investigates the impact of these pipeline projects on southeastern Europe’s gas supply. Gas flows and marginal cost prices are evaluated in general and considering the possibility of supply disruptions via Ukraine for the year 2020. The model results show a positive impact of these pipelines on security of supply despite few consumer cut-offs that result from intra-European bottlenecks. South Stream is only highly utilized in case of a Ukraine crisis, supporting the idea that its main purpose is to bypass Ukraine.
In VitroandIn VivoModels of Drug Metabolism
Authors: Sinz Michael A.
Published: May 2012

Understanding the metabolism of newly developed drugs is paramount because of the central role metabolism plays in unraveling the possible toxicity or developability of new drug candidates. Therefore it is always important to understand the full set of metabolic reactions and enzymes involved in the metabolism of a compound in both preclinical models as well as in humans to avoid unnecessary complications or failures in drug development. Drug metabolismin vivooccurs everywhere within the body to differing extents, however metabolism occurs predominately in those organs involved in elimination and those to which the drug is first exposed.In vitro, there are multiple reagents that can be employed to evaluate metabolism or drug–drug interaction potential, such as microsomes, hepatocytes, and numerous subcellular fractions. The following text describes variousin vitroandin vivomodels often employed throughout drug discovery and development, as well as the purpose each model system serves to provide valuable information to elucidate the metabolic disposition of new drug molecules.
Metabonomics in Understanding Drug Metabolism and Toxicology
Authors: Wen Bo
Published: May 2012

Most xenobiotics, including drugs, are transformed in animals and humans to a variety of metabolites. Although many of these metabolites are physiologically inactive, some are active either therapeutically or toxicologically. Metabolic activation leading to formation of chemically reactive metabolites is a long‐standing issue inasmuch as some, but not all, reactive intermediates play a role as mediators of drug‐induced toxicities, which represent a significant attritional hurdle in drug development. The safety assessment profile/decision‐making guide requires a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of drug‐induced toxicities, which still remains as an enormous challenge. Metabonomics, the comprehensive analysis of small molecules in a biofluid, can reveal biologically relevant perturbations that result from xenobiotic exposure. This review discusses the current progress in the application of metabonomics in bridging the relationships between drug metabolism, drug/metabolite–protein interactions, and their toxicological consequences and how these variables possibly provide a deeper insight into mechanistic aspects of drug‐induced toxicities.
Conjugation, Transport, and Elimination of Drugs in Humans
Authors: Savage Ronald E.
Published: May 2012

This article reviews the conjugation, transport, and elimination of drugs in humans. Drug‐conjugating enzymes discussed include UGTs, SULTs, GSTs, MTs, and NATs. In addition, the excretion of drugs in humans and the role of transport proteins and their relationship to drugs and their conjugated metabolites as well as the role of NRs governing the expression of DMEs and NRs are presented. Finally, factors that impact the conjugation, transport, and elimination of drugs are summarized including drug–drug interactions, dietary phytochemicals and herbal supplements, and intrinsic factors such as genetics, gender, and age.
Role of PhaseIMetabolism in Drug Activation and Clinical Treatment Outcomes
Authors: Testa Bernard , Pannatier André
Published: May 2012

Drug metabolism plays a major role in modulating the activity and clinical outcomes of medicines. The chapter focuses on the formation of active metabolites by considering drugs having no active metabolite (e.g. soft drugs), drugs producing active metabolites, and prodrugs whose activity is due solely to an active metabolite. Drug–drug interactions are also exemplified using protease inhibitors.
Drug Metabolism and Interactions in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Yanni Souzan , Allegaert Karel
Published: May 2012

Infants and children are different from adults, also in the way they handle (pharmacokinetics, PK) and subsequently respond (pharmacodynamics) to drugs. Developmental PK focuses on developmental aspects of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs, subsequent potentially affecting drug pharmacological response, and safety.

All drug metabolism‐mediated phase I and II reactions display isoenzyme specific age‐dependent activity, that is, ontogeny. Severalin vitroand clinical studies of probe drugs used in children revealed that ontogeny in drug‐metabolizing enzymes and transporters results in significant differences in PK, safety, and interactions of drugs between children and adults. Altered drug metabolism and/or transporters can lead to the development of adverse effects in infants or, reversely, may result in relative tolerance in this population compared to adulthood because of insufficient toxic metabolite formation.

Age‐dependent changes in liver drug metabolism have been most extensively studied. In addition to the maturation of drug‐metabolizing enzyme activities, age‐dependent changes in (i) uptake and efflux drug transporters; (ii) extent of plasma protein binding; (iii) liver size relative to body weight (BW); (iv) liver blood flow; and (v) microgram microsomal protein per gram liver are the key factors that influence the changes in drug metabolism and its hepatic clearance in pediatric populations compared with adults.

In this chapter, drug metabolism in pediatric patients and the factors that mediate the variability in relation to phase I and II enzymes is described. The impact of accurate evaluation of drug metabolism on drug clearance and dose determination in pediatric patients are briefly discussed; deficient in clinical studies and dose selection in relation to off‐label drug therapy in pediatric populations are also discussed. Furthermore, the information that described the metabolism‐mediated drug interaction or adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is then reviewed. Finally, tools to study the drug metabolism in this populations and overseen limitation are summarized.
Power in Numbers: The Effect of Target Set Size on Prospective Person Memory in an Analog Missing Child Scenario
Authors: Lampinen James Michael , Peters Christopher S. , Gier Vicki S.
Published: May 2012

Efforts to find missing or wanted individuals have been characterized as an example of event‐based prospective memory called prospective person memory. We examined prospective person memory in the context of missing children. Participants studied 4 or 12 mock missing child posters. In Experiment 1, we equated total time per poster and found no difference between conditions in prospective person memory accuracy. In Experiment 2, we equated total time for all posters and found evidence of a decrease in prospective person memory accuracy in the 12‐poster condition. In Experiment 3, we allowed free study and also found a decrease in prospective person memory accuracy. Across all three experiments, we also found evidence of a more liberal response bias in the 12‐poster condition. Results are discussed in terms of both practical and theoretical implications. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo biocompatibility and bioactivity of in situ synthesized hydroxyapatite/polyetheretherketone composite materials
Authors: Ma Rui , Weng Luqian , Bao Xujin , Song Shenhua , Zhang Yu
Published: May 2012

Hydroxyapatite/polyetheretherketone (HA/PEEK) composite materials were prepared via an in situ synthesis process in order to achieve strong bonding between PEEK matrix and hydroxyapatite fillers, and ultimately to improve the mechanical properties of the composites. In the study, the biocompatibility of the synthesized HA/PEEK materials was investigated by acute toxicity test, hemolytic test, sensitization test, pyrogen test, intradermal test, and toxicity assay test on animal tissue and cells for the purpose of examining the possible adverse effects of the residue organic chemicals from the in situ synthesis process. In vivo bioactivity of both lab‐synthesized PEEK and HA/PEEK composites with various HA content was also studied. It is found that the in situ synthesized composite materials possess good biocompability without toxicity. Although the bioactivity of the material increases with HA content, the composite material with 5.6 vol % HA exhibits satisfactory bioactivity without compromising its excellent mechanical performance, which hints to a potential use as load‐bearing orthopedic material. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
An ionic liquid‐based polymer with π‐stacked structure as all‐solid‐state electrolyte for efficient dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Zhuo Shuping , Lin Yuan
Published: May 2012

An ionic liquid based polymer, poly(1‐ethyl‐3‐(acryloyloxy)hexylimidazolium iodide) (PEAI), was synthesized and employed as electrolyte to fabricate all‐solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells. The photophysical properties of PEAI were studied by UV–vis absorption spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. PEAI exhibited significant hypochromism and red shift in UV–vis absorption spectra and large Stokes shifts in photoluminescence spectra, indicating the formation of a novel π‐stacked structure in which the imidazolium rings in the side chain were stacked. Without iodine in its preparation, DSC with PEAI electrolyte achieved a conversion efficiency of 5.29% under AM 1.5 simulated solar light irradiation (100 mW cm−2). The side‐chain imidazolium π‐π stacking in PEAI played a key role in the holes transport from the photoanode to the counter electrode. Both the open‐circuit voltage and short‐circuit current density showed decreases with the increase in the content of iodine in PEAI electrolyte. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
In vitro evaluation of electrospun gelatin‐bioactive glass hybrid scaffolds for bone regeneration
Authors: Gao Chunxia , Gao Qiang , Li Yadong , Rahaman Mohamed N. , Teramoto Akira , Abe Koji
Published: May 2012

Organic–inorganic hybrid materials, composed of phases that interact on a nanoscale and a microstructure that mimics the extracellular matrix, can potentially provide attractive scaffolds for bone regeneration. In the present study, hybrid scaffolds of gelatin and bioactive glass (BG) with a fibrous microstructure were prepared by a combined sol–gel and electrospinning technique and evaluated in vitro. Structural and chemical analyses showed that the fibers consisted of gelatin and BG that were covalently linked by 3‐glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane to form a homogeneous phase. Immersion of the gelatin–BG hybrid scaffolds in a simulated body fluid (SBF) at 37°C resulted in the formation of a hydroxyapatite (HA)‐like material on the surface of the fibers within 12 h, showing the bioactivity of the scaffolds. After 5 days in SBF, the surface of the hybrid scaffolds was completely covered with an HA‐like layer. The gelatin–BG hybrid scaffolds had a tensile strength of 4.3 ± 1.2 MPa and an elongation to failure of 168 ± 14%, compared to values of 0.5 ± 0.2 MPa and 63 ± 2% for gelatin scaffolds with a similar microstructure. The hybrid scaffolds supported the proliferation of osteoblastic MC3T3‐E1 cells, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization during in vitro culture, showing their biocompatibility. The results indicate that these gelatin–BG hybrid scaffolds prepared by a combination of sol–gel processing and electrospinning have potential for application in bone regeneration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
IMPROVING BEHAVIOR IN A RESIDENTIAL SERVICE FOR YOUTH IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL REHABILITATION
Authors: Taylor Sarah Ann , Mudford Oliver C.
Published: May 2012

A token reinforcement program, named ‘Thumbs Up’, was introduced in a residential therapeutic community for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Sixteen young people aged 14–17 years participated for varying durations. Participants were able to negotiate target behaviors and choose backup reinforcers. We evaluated the program within a multiple baseline design across participants, settings, and behaviors. Improvements occurred in positive verbal statements across settings, timely room cleaning, and leadership responsibilities. Inappropriate statements were also measured and did not change. One staff member was trained in the use of Thumbs Up with positive results. Difficulties with implementing behavioral interventions in a non‐behaviorally oriented treatment service were identified. Despite needing refinements, it was concluded that a token reinforcement program can be an effective and acceptable means of improving behavior within a therapeutic community framework. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Highly Efficient Redox Isomerisation of Allylic Alcohols Catalysed by Pyrazole‐Based Ruthenium(IV) Complexes in Water: Mechanisms of Bifunctional Catalysis in Water
Authors: Bellarosa Luca , Díez Josefina , Gimeno José , Lledós Agustí , Suárez Francisco J. , Ujaque Gregori , Vicent Cristian
Published: May 2012

The catalytic activity of ruthenium(IV) ([Ru(η3:η3‐C10H16)Cl2L]; C10H16=2,7‐dimethylocta‐2,6‐diene‐1,8‐diyl, L=pyrazole, 3‐methylpyrazole, 3,5‐dimethylpyrazole, 3‐methyl‐5‐phenylpyrazole, 2‐(1H‐pyrazol‐3‐yl)phenol or indazole) and ruthenium(II) complexes ([Ru(η6‐arene)Cl2(3,5‐dimethylpyrazole)]; arene=C6H6, p‐cymene or C6Me6) in the redox isomerisation of allylic alcohols into carbonyl compounds in water is reported. The former show much higher catalytic activity than ruthenium(II) complexes. In particular, a variety of allylic alcohols have been quantitatively isomerised by using [Ru(η3:η3‐C10H16)Cl2(pyrazole)] as a catalyst; the reactions proceeded faster in water than in THF, and in the absence of base. The isomerisations of monosubstituted alcohols take place rapidly (10–60 min, turn‐over frequency=750–3000 h−1) and, in some cases, at 35 °C in 60 min. The nature of the aqueous species formed in water by this complex has been analysed by ESI‐MS. To analyse how an aqueous medium can influence the mechanism of the bifunctional catalytic process, DFT calculations (B3LYP) including one or two explicit water molecules and using the polarisable continuum model have been carried out and provide a valuable insight into the role of water on the activity of the bifunctional catalyst. Several mechanisms have been considered and imply the formation of aqua complexes and their deprotonated species generated from [Ru(η3:η3‐C10H16)Cl2(pyrazole)]. Different competitive pathways based on outer‐sphere mechanisms, which imply hydrogen‐transfer processes, have been analysed. The overall isomerisation implies two hydrogen‐transfer steps from the substrate to the catalyst and subsequent transfer back to the substrate. In addition to the conventional Noyori outer‐sphere mechanism, which involves the pyrazolide ligand, a new mechanism with a hydroxopyrazole complex as the active species can be at work in water. The possibility of formation of an enol, which isomerises easily to the keto form in water, also contributes to the efficiency in water.
Graphene nanoribbon FETs for digital electronics: experiment and modeling
Authors: Tahy Kristof , Xing Huili , Jena Debdeep
Published: May 2012

One‐dimensional nanostructures of graphene such as graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) can prove attractive for digital electronics in the form of interband tunneling transistors, as they are capable of high drive currents. Here, we report on the transport properties of p‐n junctions formed in GNR field effect transistors (FETs). It is found that the current density in the devices is indeed high; in the 1–1.5 A/mm range have been measured, comparable to Si‐MOSFETs and III‐V Nitride HEMTs. The observed unique current–voltage characteristics of the double‐gated GNR FETs having a lateral p‐n junction as their channel is explained by a field‐effect model. Due to the lack of sufficiently large bandgap in the 30 nm wide GNR, the device still cannot be turned off completely, but rectification is achieved. The results suggest that the fabrication of tunneling FETs made out of graphene is possible and their characteristics may meet the expectations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunophenotypic characterization of enteric neural crest cells in the developing avian colorectum
Authors: Nagy Nandor , Burns Alan J. , Goldstein Allan M.
Published: May 2012

A chick–chick intraspecies chimera was created by removing the neural tube adjacent to somites 2–6 from a normal chick embryo at E1.5 and replacing it with equivalent tissue from an age‐matched chick‐GFP transgenic embryo. At E10, the colorectum was removed, sectioned, and stained with HNK‐1 antibody (red) to detect neural crest‐derived cells, and with DAPI (blue) to label nuclei. Vagal neural crest‐derived cells are HNK‐1+/GFP+, while sacral neural crest derived‐cells, which comprise the nerve of Remak, are HNK‐1+/GFP−. From Nagy et al., Developmental Dynamics 241:842–851, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) and N‐WASp are involved in the regulation of NK‐cell migration upon NKG2D activation
Authors: Serrano‐Pertierra Esther , Cernuda‐Morollón Eva , López‐Larrea Carlos
Published: May 2012

NKG2D is a transmembrane receptor mainly expressed on CD8+ T cells and NK cells. Engagement of NKG2D with its ligands can trigger a cytotoxic response. It has been shown that tumor cells deliver soluble NKG2D ligands as a mechanism of immune evasion through the downregulation of surface‐expressed NKG2D. These ligands may be also secreted in microvesicles and regulate NK‐cell function, but the existence of alternative mechanisms has not been explored. In this study, we describe that NKG2D activation inhibits NK‐cell chemotaxis toward a CXCL12 gradient. Costimulation of the inhibitory receptor NKG2A rescues NK‐cell migration rates. Thus, the balance of NKG2D/NKG2A activation may determine the migratory ability of NK cells. Furthermore, our data indicated that NKG2D cross‐linking induces the activation of the Rho GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42, while RhoA activity is decreased. Pharmacological inhibition of the Cdc42 effectors Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp)/N‐WASp, and the reduction of their levels using RNA interference partially abolished NKG2D‐mediated impairment of cell migration, suggesting a pivotal role of Cdc42 in the regulation of NK‐cell migration by NKG2D activation. Therefore, our results provide a new mechanism that may contribute to the immune response or evasion in tumors.
Monocytes as effector cells: Activated Ly‐6Chigh mouse monocytes migrate to the lymph nodes through the lymph and cross‐present antigens to CD8+T cells
Authors: Leirião Patrícia , del Fresno Carlos , Ardavín Carlos
Published: May 2012

Monocytes have the capacity to differentiate into macrophages or dendritic cells (DCs) after extravasation into lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues. They have thus been consequently considered as precursors, but not effector cells, recirculating exclusively through the blood. In this report, we demonstrate for the first time that, after subcutaneous injection, activated monocytes migrate through the lymphatics from the dermis into the draining lymph nodes by a CCR7‐dependent mechanism. LPS‐activated monocytes were less efficient than DCs in stimulating CD4+ T cells, but unexpectedly, they were highly efficient in inducing antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell proliferation by cross‐presentation, both in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, CD8+ T cells stimulated in vivo by activated monocytes expressed a high level of CD62L, suggesting that they had undergone an unconventional activation process. In conclusion, our data strongly support the concept that monocytes can behave not only as precursor cells for macrophages and DCs, but also as effector cells with the capacity to migrate from the periphery to the lymph nodes through the lymph and to cross‐present antigens to CD8+ T cells. These results suggest that monocytes can play an important role in the induction and regulation of CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses.
Elaboration of Urease Adsorption on Silicalite for Biosensor Creation
Authors: Kucherenko I. S. , Soldatkin O. O. , Kasap B. O. , Öztürk S. , Akata B. , Soldatkin A. P. , Dzyadevych S. V.
Published: May 2012

A possibility of efficient urease adsorption on silicalite for the purpose of biosensor creation was investigated. The procedure of urease adsorption on silicalite is notable for such advantages as simple and fast performance and non‐use of toxic or auxiliary compounds. Optimal conditions for modifying transducer surfaces with silicalite and subsequent urease adsorption on these surfaces were selected. The working parameters of the created biosensor were optimized. The developed biosensor with adsorbed urease was characterized by good intra‐reproducibility (RSD – 4.5 %), improved inter‐reproducibility (RSD of urea determination is 9 %) and operational stability (less than 10 % loss of activity after 10 days). Besides, the developed method for enzyme adsorption on silicalite was compared with the traditional methods of urease immobilization in biosensorics. Working conditions of the produced biosensor (pH and ionic strength) were shown to be close to those of the biosensor based on urease immobilized in GA vapor. For these reasons, it was concluded that the method of enzyme adsorption on silicalite is well‐suited for biosensor standardization aimed at its further manufacture.
Electrochemical Characterization of Stainless Steel as a New Electrode Material in a Medical Device for the Diagnosis of Sudomotor Dysfunction
Authors: Ayoub Hanna , LAIR Virginie , Griveau Sophie , Brunswick Philippe , Bedioui Fethi , Cassir Michel
Published: May 2012

An electrochemical sensor detects the risk of diabetes and prediabetes; low potentials are applied to nickel electrodes and electrical responses are measured. Although the contact of nickel with skin is short, the risk of allergical reactions cannot be discarded. SS 304L, with lower Ni content, was tested in carbonate buffer solutions containing chloride, lactate and urea to investigate its sensitivity to different parameters in sweat and compare it to nickel. The results show that SS 304L is a suitable material for the assessment of sudomotor dysfunction due to its high capacity to detect the deviation in Cl− concentration. Sensitivity of SS 304L to Cl− is much higher than for nickel.
Mesoporous Silica Sputter‐Coated onto ITO: Electrochemical Processes, Ion Permeability, and Gold Deposition Through NanoPores
Authors: Vuorema Anne , Sillanpää Mika , Edler Karen J. , Jaber Robben , Dale Sara E. C. , Bending Simon , Gu Yunfeng , Yunus Kamran , Fisher Adrian C. , Marken Frank
Published: May 2012

“Simple” silica films of 50 nm and 100 nm thickness are sputter‐coated onto ITO substrates and shown to be structured with in‐planed features of ca. 15 nm and pores <5 nm (based on GISAXS). In electrochemical measurements membrane pore effects are observed. The oxidation current for Fe(CN)64− in aqueous KNO3 strongly depends on the electrolyte concentration. Poly‐cationic poly(diallyl‐dimethylammonium) (PDDA) cannot enter these pores, but is adsorbed onto the outer surface of the silica film. During gold electrodeposition, PDDA causes growth of “discs”. Gold deposits adhere well and a comparison of glucose electrooxidation activity reveals significant improvements.
Achillea roseoalba – a long ignored relict in Germany
Authors: Dunkel Franz G. , Gregor Thomas , Meierott Lenz
Published: May 2012

Achillea roseoalba occurs in temporarily wet mea‐dows of the Schweinfurt area (Northern Bavaria, Germany), a well‐known relict area for continental thermophilous plants. The main population of A. roseoalba grows in a Cirsio tuberosi‐Molinietum arundinaceae. The Schweinfurt area is probably a relict area of a formerly more extended distribution area of A. roseoalba during the Boreal. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Eine neue Art der Morphogattung Baieroxylon Greguss aus dem Keuper von Franken, Deutschland
Authors: Süss H. , Kelber K.‐P.
Published: May 2012

Aus dem Keuper (Obere Trias) von Franken (Süddeutschland) wird eine neue Art der Morphogattung Baieroxylon als B. schuessleri sp. nova beschrieben. Nach Informationen über die Fundumstände wird ein Überblick über die geologische Situation gegeben. Wegen des Vorkommens von gekammerten Tracheiden, eines für Gymnospermen ungewöhnlichen Merkmals, grenzt sich dieses Fossil von allen bisher beschriebenen Arten dieser Gattung ab. In den Schlussbemerkungen werden einige der möglichen Ursachen erörtert, die zur typischen ginkgoalen Holzstruktur führen. Außerdem wird über die Bedeutung einiger anderer, seltener und phylogenetisch wichtiger Holzarten aus dem Keuper von Franken und Südthüringen diskutiert. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Secondary head and neck cancer in patients with history of hematological malignancy
Authors: Chung Joseph Chun–Kit , Tsang Raymond King–Yin , To Victor Shing–Howe , Ho Ambrose Chung–Wai , Chan Jimmy Yu–Wai , Ho Wai–Kuen , Wei William Ignace
Published: May 2012

Background

Head and neck cancer is a common second cancer in patients with a history of hematological malignancies. The purpose of this study was present the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of this group of patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients who had a history of hematological malignancy and developed head and neck cancer in a 10‐year period.

Results

The cohort had 10 patients; median age was 45.8 years. Most patients were nonsmokers and nondrinkers. Seven patients had chronic graft‐versus‐host disease. The median interval between the completion of treatment of hematological malignancy and the development of head and neck cancers was 8.79 years (range, 2.33–26.83 years). Six patients were alive and disease‐free, 3 developed local recurrence, and 3 had metachronous head and neck cancers.

Conclusion

The risk factors and etiology of head and neck cancers in patients with hematological malignancy may be different from the ordinary population. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Substance misuse trends in South Africa
Authors: Pasche Sonja , Myers Bronwyn
Published: May 2012

This paper, the first in a series related to the Joint European South African Research Network in Anxiety Disorders programme, examines substance use trends in South Africa. Alcohol remains the substance with the greatest burden of harm. Yet, trends vary by region, with for example methamphetamine being a major driver of psychiatric and substance abuse treatment demand in the Western Cape province. Heroin use is increasing in several provinces, where rapid intervention is required to avoid an epidemic. In particular, the state (the main funder of drug services) urgently needs to provide opioid substitution treatment. Apart from an inadequate number of treatment services, barriers to treatment are high. Barriers are predominantly cost, transport and resource related. Services are also impacted by a small and inadequately trained workforce and poor integration with mental health services. To adequately intervene with substance use disorders, South Africa needs an evidence‐based policy and service planning framework that forges linkages with the mental health service system. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Khat use is associated with increased response conflict in humans
Authors: Colzato Lorenza S. , Ruiz Manuel J. , van den Wildenberg Wery P. M. , Hommel Bernhard
Published: May 2012

Objective

Khat consumption has become a worldwide phenomenon broadening from Eastern Africa and the south west of the Arabian Peninsula to ethnic communities in the rest of the world. Only few studies have systematically looked into cognitive impairments in khat users. We studied whether khat use is associated with changes in the emergence and resolution of response conflict, a central cognitive control function.

Method

Khat users (n = 16) and khat‐free controls (n = 16) were matched in terms of sex, ethnicity, socio‐economical situation, age, alcohol and cannabis consumption, and IQ (Raven's Progressive Matrices). Groups were tested on response conflict, as measured by the Simon task.

Results

Khat users performed significantly slower than controls and were more strongly affected by stimulus‐induced response conflict.

Conclusions

Khat use is associated with specific impairments in behavioral control: general slowing and less efficient resolution of response conflicts, which is likely to impair decision making in everyday life. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasma levels of milnacipran and its effectiveness for the treatment of chronic pain in the orofacial region
Authors: Kimura Hiroyuki , Yoshida Keizo , Ito Mikiko , Tokura Tatsuya , Nagashima Wataru , Kurita Kenichi , Ozaki Norio
Published: May 2012

Objectives

This study was performed to assess the relationship between plasma levels of milnacipran and its analgesic/antidepressive effect in patients with chronic orofacial pain treated with this drug.

Methods

A total of 44 patients took milnacipran for 12 weeks. Patients were assessed for their pain and depressive symptoms using the visual analog scale (VAS) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, respectively. The plasma milnacipran level was also assessed at week 12.

Results

Forty patients completed study treatment and were included in the analysis. In these patients, the VAS score at week 12 significantly decreased from the baseline score (t = 5.15, p < 0.0001). The dose of milnacipran was positively correlated in a linear manner with the plasma level of the drug (Y = 44.86 + 0.33X, r = 0.54, R2 = 0.29, p = 0.0004). A quadratic regression curve was plotted between the percentage of decrease in the VAS score and plasma milnacipran level (Y = 27.39 + 0.76X − 0.008X2, p = 0.048, r = 0.40, R2 = 0.16). On the other hand, no significant relationship was noted between the percentage of decrease in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score and plasma milnacipran level.

Conclusion

The analgesic effect of milnacipran was suppressed in the presence of the plasma level of the drug outside the therapeutic range, whereas its antidepressant effect was not affected by its plasma level. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MEDICAL EXPENDITURE RISK AND HOUSEHOLD PORTFOLIO CHOICE
Authors: Goldman Dana , Maestas Nicole
Published: May 2012

Medical expenses are an increasingly important contributor to household financial risk. We examine the effect of medical expenditure risk on the willingness of Medicare beneficiaries to hold risky assets. Using a discrete‐factor maximum likelihood method to address the endogeneity of insurance choices, we find that having a moderately protective Medigap or employer supplemental policy increases risky asset holding by 7.1 percentage points relative to those without supplemental coverage, while participation in a highly protective Medicare health maintenance organization increases risky asset holding by 13.0 percentage points. Our results highlight an important link between the availability of health insurance and financial behavior. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of thoracic kyphosis and sagittal plane alignment on vertebral compressive loading
Authors: Bruno Alexander G , Anderson Dennis E , D'Agostino John , Bouxsein Mary L
Published: May 2012

To better understand the biomechanical mechanisms underlying the association between hyperkyphosis of the thoracic spine and risk of vertebral fracture and other degenerative spinal pathology, we used a previously validated musculoskeletal model of the spine to determine how thoracic kyphosis angle and spinal posture affect vertebral compressive loading. We simulated an age-related increase in thoracic kyphosis (T1–T12 Cobb angle 50–75 degrees) during two different activities (relaxed standing and standing with 5-kg weights in the hands) and three different posture conditions: (1) an increase in thoracic kyphosis with no postural adjustment (uncompensated posture); (2) an increase in thoracic kyphosis with a concomitant increase in pelvic tilt that maintains a stable center of mass and horizontal eye gaze (compensated posture); and (3) an increase in thoracic kyphosis with a concomitant increase in lumbar lordosis that also maintains a stable center of mass and horizontal eye gaze (congruent posture). For all posture conditions, compressive loading increased with increasing thoracic kyphosis, with loading increasing more in the thoracolumbar and lumbar regions than in the mid-thoracic region. Loading increased the most for the uncompensated posture, followed by the compensated posture, with the congruent posture almost completely mitigating any increases in loading with increased thoracic kyphosis. These findings indicate that both thoracic kyphosis and spinal posture influence vertebral loading during daily activities, implying that thoracic kyphosis measurements alone are not sufficient to characterize the impact of spinal curvature on vertebral loading. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bone involvement in aldosteronism
Authors: Salcuni Antonio Stefano , Palmieri Serena , Carnevale Vincenzo , Morelli Valentina , Battista Claudia , Guarnieri Vito , Guglielmi Giuseppe , Desina Gaetano , Eller-Vainicher Cristina , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Scillitani Alfredo , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: May 2012

In rats with aldosteronism, a reduction of bone mineral density (BMD) and cortical bone strength has been reported. Our study was aimed to evaluate bone involvement in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). A total of 188 consecutive subjects with adrenal incidentaloma, observed between November 2009 and October 2011, were screened for PA with aldosterone-to-renin ratio. After confirmatory tests, in those who screened positive, 11 patients were diagnosed as PA and 15 patients were not (nPA). A serum/urinary biochemical profile, parathyroid hormone (PTH), BMD measured at lumbar spine (LS) and total and femoral neck (TN and FN) by dual X-ray absorptiometry, and conventional spinal radiographs (T4–L4) were obtained in all subjects. PA patients had a significantly higher 24-hour urinary calcium (6.28 ± 1.85 versus 4.28 ± 1.18 mmol/d; p < 0.01), and PTH (9.8 [5.8-14.6], median [range] versus 5.3 [2.5-10.8] pmol/L; p < 0.01) than nPA patients. BMD expressed as Z-value at LS (−1.18 ± 0.99 versus 0.22 ± 1.12), FN (−0.85 ± 0.73 versus 0.01 ± 0.82), and TN (−0.49 ± 0.61 versus 0.39 ± 0.93) was lower in PA than in nPA (p = 0.003, p = 0.011, and p = 0.012, respectively). The prevalence of osteoporosis was higher in PA than in nPA (8/11, 72.7% versus 3/15, 20.0%; Fisher's exact test: p = 0.015). Vertebral fractures tended to be more prevalent in PA than in nPA (5/11, 45.5% versus 2/15, 13.3%; Fisher's exact test: p = 0.095). Logistic regression analysis showed that osteoporosis and morphometric vertebral fractures were associated with PA (odds ratio [OR], 15.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.83–130, p = 0.012; and OR, 30.4; 95%CI, 1.07–862, p = 0.045, respectively) regardless of age, body mass index (BMI), and LS-BMD. In 9 of 11 PA patients, 6 months after beginning of treatment (surgery or spironolactone) there was a significant reduction of urinary calcium excretion (p < 0.01) and PTH (p < 0.01), whereas in 5 of 11 PA patients, 1 year after beginning of treatment, BMD was significantly increased at LS, p < 0.01). In conclusion, PA is associated with osteoporosis, vertebral fractures, and increased urinary calcium excretion. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Villin promoter-mediated transgenic expression of transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 6 (TRPV6) increases intestinal calcium absorption in wild-type and vitamin D receptor knockout mice
Authors: Cui Min , Li Qiang , Johnson Robert , Fleet James C
Published: May 2012

Transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily V, member 6 (TRPV6) is an apical membrane calcium (Ca) channel in the small intestine proposed to be essential for vitamin D–regulated intestinal Ca absorption. Recent studies have challenged the proposed role for TRPV6 in Ca absorption. We directly tested intestinal TRPV6 function in Ca and bone metabolism in wild-type (WT) and vitamin D receptor knockout (VDRKO) mice. TRPV6 transgenic mice (TG) were made with intestinal epithelium–specific expression of a 3X Flag-tagged human TRPV6 protein. TG and VDRKO mice were crossed to make TG-VDRKO mice. Ca and bone metabolism was examined in WT, TG, VDRKO, and TG-VDRKO mice. TG mice developed hypercalcemia and soft tissue calcification on a chow diet. In TG mice fed a 0.25% Ca diet, Ca absorption was more than three-fold higher and femur bone mineral density (BMD) was 26% higher than WT. Renal 1α hydroxylase (CYP27B1) mRNA and intestinal expression of the natural mouse TRPV6 gene were reduced to <10% of WT but small intestine calbindin-D9k expression was elevated >15 times in TG mice. TG-VDRKO mice had high Ca absorption that prevented the low serum Ca, high renal CYP27B1 mRNA, low BMD, and abnormal bone microarchitecture seen in VDRKO mice. In addition, small intestinal calbindin D9K mRNA and protein levels were elevated in TG-VDRKO. Transgenic TRPV6 expression in intestine is sufficient to increase Ca absorption and bone density, even in VDRKO mice. VDR-independent upregulation of intestinal calbindin D9k in TG-VDRKO suggests this protein may buffer intracellular Ca during Ca absorption. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.