bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRUCTURAL AND PIEZOELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF (1 − x)PZT-xBFN (x = 0.1 – 0.2) SOLID SOLUTION
Authors: SUTJARITTANGTHAM KRIT , EITSSAYEAM SUKUM , PENGPAT KAMONPAN , RUJIJANAGUL GOBWUTE , TUNKASIRI TAWEE , SATITTADA GANNAGA , INTATHA URAIWAN
Published: November 2008

The structural, dielectric and piezoelectric properties of (1 − x) PbZr 0.52 Ti 0.48 O 3– xBaFe 0.5 Nb 0.5 O 3 ceramic system with the composition near the morphotropic phase boundary were investigated as a function of the BaFe 0.5 Nb 0.5 O 3 content by X-ray diffraction (XRD), dielectric measurement and piezoelectric measurement techniques. Studies were performed on the samples prepared by solid state reaction for x = 0.10, 0.12, 0.14, 0.16, 0.18 and 0.20. The XRD analysis demonstrated that with increasing BFN content in (1 − x) PZT −x BFN , the structural change occurred from tetragonal to the mixture of tetragonal and cubic phase. Changes in the dielectric behavior and piezoelectric properties were found to relate with these structural changes depending on the BFN contents.
LOW SINTERING TEMPERATURE OF LEAD MAGNESIUM NIOBATE-LEAD TITANATE (0.9PMN–0.1PT) BY ADDING OXIDE ADDITIVES
Authors: PISITPIPATHSIN NUTTAPON , PENGPAT KAMONPAN , EITSSAYEAM SUKUM , TUNKASIRI TAWEE , SIRISOONTHORN SOMNUK , BUDCHAN SAVITTREE , INTATHA URAIWAN
Published: November 2008

This research work is aimed at lowering the sintering temperature of 0.9PMN–0.1PT ceramics by adding oxide additives. The oxides used for this purpose were Bi 2 O 3 and Li 2 CO 3 with various amounts, following the formula of xBi 2 O 3+y Li 2 CO 3, where x+y = 10 mol % and x = 1, 3, 5 and the mixed oxide additive powders were then added to the dried powder of 0.9PMN–0.1PT with 1 wt% concentration. An excess PbO content of approximately 3 wtadded to all compositions to compensate the lead loss. After that, the mixed powders were pressed into pellets and subsequently sintered to form the ceramic samples. The results showed that the sintering temperature of 0.9PMN–0.1PT ceramics could be lowered down from 1250°C to 900–1000°C by the addition of small amount of the oxide additives, where the optimum composition was found in the sample with x : y = 1 : 9 at sintering temperature of 1000°C. Moreover, the densification, dielectric and ferroelectric properties of this sample remain acceptable in particular uses, promising positive future for reduction of lead loss from electrical and electronic industries.
Creative practice-based research in interaction design
Authors: Barrass Stephen
Published: November 2008

This article describes interactive artworks exhibited at Experimenta Prototype 2002, House of Tomorrow 2003, and at Vanishing Point 2005. These works were developed through an incremental research process that explored perceptual, aesthetic, and technical aspects of interaction design. The exhibitions provided an opportunity to observe audience response and critically reflect on the hypotheses embodied in the artifacts. The first work, titled OpShop, began as an experiment on interaction with far-distant objects in a virtual environment called the CyberStage. The second, ZiZi the Affectionate Couch, animated an inanimate object by mixing digital media with a piece of furniture. The third, called the Cocktail Party Effect, is a psychological exploration of the mental image of an object communicated in the absence of visual perceptions, and an experiment in developing the narrative language of touch and sound. We describe the history and ongoing trajectories of these works, and provide insights into interaction design gained through this creative practice-based research process.
Blending realities in game space
Authors: Innocent Troy
Published: November 2008

Modes of representation in digital games are explored in terms of game aesthetics, structure, and logic. A model for “world-making” is developed that identifies key components of digital media language and their relationship to shifting modes of representation. These ideas are demonstrated through three art works created by the
Idea-ON>!,
Iconica
, and
Semiomorph
. The final work,
Semiomorph
, combines the theory of “semiotic morphism” with gameplay to create a digital game that generates blended realities. This work is described and analyzed in detail to illustrate the proposed model.
Active Biological Materials
Authors: Fletcher Daniel A. , Geissler Phillip L.
Published: November 2008

Cells make use of dynamic internal structures to control shape and create movement. By consuming energy to assemble into highly organized systems of interacting parts, these structures can generate force and resist compression, as well as adaptively change in response to their environment. Recent progress in reconstituting cytoskeletal structures in vitro has provided an opportunity to characterize the mechanics and dynamics of filament networks formed from purified proteins. Results indicate that a complex interplay between length scales and timescales underlies the mechanical responses of these systems and that energy consumption, as manifested in molecular motor activity and cytoskeletal filament growth, can drive transitions between distinct material states. This review discusses the basic characteristics of these active biological materials that set them apart from conventional materials and that create a rich array of unique behaviors.
Quantum Coherent Control for Nonlinear Spectroscopy and Microscopy
Authors: Silberberg Yaron
Published: November 2008

The field of quantum coherent control, initially formulated with the goal of modifying and manipulating molecular systems, has had a number of applications in atomic and molecular spectroscopy in recent years. This review demonstrates how carefully designed femtosecond pulses could be used to enhance resolution and improve detection in several areas of nonlinear spectroscopy. The two effects that are most intensively studied in this context are two-photon absorption and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering. This article discusses the principles of the control of such processes and several possible applications in microscopy and remote sensing.
Early exercise regimen improves insulin sensitivity in the intrauterine growth-restricted adult female rat offspring
Authors: Garg Meena , Thamotharan Manikkavasagar , Oak Shilpa A. , Pan Gerald , MacLaren Duncan C. , Lee Paul W. N. , Devaskar Sherin U.
Published: November 2008

We examined the effect of early exercise training (Ex) on glucose kinetics, basal, and insulin-stimulated skeletal muscle (SKM) plasma membrane (PM) GLUT4 in pre- and/or postnatal nutrient-restricted adult rat offspring compared with sedentary (Sed) state. Pregestational control female (Ex CON vs. Sed CON) and offspring exposed to prenatal (Ex IUGR vs. Sed IUGR), postnatal (Ex PNGR vs. Sed PNGR), or pre- and postnatal (Ex IUGR + PNGR vs. Sed IUGR + PNGR) nutrient restriction were studied. The combined effect of exercise and pre/postnatal nutrition in the Ex IUGR demonstrated positive effects on basal and glucose-stimulated plasma insulin response (GSIR) with suppression of endogenous hepatic glucose production (HGP) compared with sedentary state. Ex PNGR was hyperglycemic after glucose challenge with no change in glucose-stimulated insulin production or HGP compared with sedentary state. Ex IUGR + PNGR remained glucose tolerant with unchanged glucose-stimulated insulin production but increased endogenous HGP compared with sedentary state. Basal SKM PM-associated GLUT4 was unchanged by exercise in all four groups. Whereas Ex PNGR and Ex IUGR + PNGR insulin responsiveness was similar to that of Ex CON, Ex IUGR remained nonresponsive to insulin. Early introduction of regular Ex in the pregestational female offspring had a positive effect on hepatic adaptation to GSIR and HGP in IUGR and IUGR + PNGR, with no effect in PNGR. Change in insulin responsiveness of SKM GLUT4 translocation was observed in exercised IUGR + PNGR and PNGR but not in exercised IUGR.
Salirasib (farnesyl thiosalicylic acid) for brain tumor treatment: a convection-enhanced drug delivery study in rats
Authors: Goldberg Liat , Ocherashvilli Aharon , Daniels Dianne , Last David , Cohen Zvi R. , Tamar Gregory , Kloog Yoel , Mardor Yael
Published: November 2008

Our aim was to assess the ability of convection-enhanced drug delivery (CED), a novel approach of direct delivery of drugs into brain tissue and brain tumors, to treat brain tumors using salirasib (farsnesyl thiosalicylic acid). CED was achieved by continuous infusion of drugs via intracranial catheters, thus enabling convective distribution of high drug concentrations over large volumes while avoiding systemic toxicity. Several phase II/III CED-based trials are currently in progress but have yet to overcome two major pitfalls of this methodology (the difficulty in attaining efficient CED and the significant nonspecific neurotoxicity caused by high drug doses in the brain). In this study, we addressed both issues by employing our previously described novel CED imaging and increased efficiency methodologies to exclusively target the activated form of the Ras oncogene in a 9L gliosarcoma rat model. The drug we used was salirasib, a highly specific Ras inhibitor shown to exert its suppressive effects on growth and migration of proliferating tumor cells in in vitro and in vivo models, including human glioblastoma, without affecting normal tissues. The results show a significant decrease in tumor growth rate in salirasib-treated rats relative to vehicle-treated rats as well as a significant correlation between CED efficacy and tumor growth rate with no observed toxicity despite drug concentrations an order of magnitude higher than previously detected in the brain. The results show that CED of salirasib is efficient and nontoxic for the treatment of glioblastoma in a rat model, thus suggesting that it may be considered for clinical application. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(11):3609–16]
Targeting multiple pathways in gliomas with stem cell and viral delivered S-TRAIL and Temozolomide
Authors: Hingtgen Shawn , Ren Xianghui , Terwilliger Ernie , Classon Marie , Weissleder Ralph , Shah Khalid
Published: November 2008

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) selectively kills tumor cells. However, its short half-life, poor delivery, and TRAIL-resistant tumor cells have diminished its clinical efficacy. In this study, we explored whether novel delivery methods will represent new and effective ways to treat gliomas and if adjuvant therapy with the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide would enhance the cytotoxic properties of TRAIL in glioma lines resistant to TRAIL monotherapy. We have engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors encoding recombinant secreted TRAIL (S-TRAIL) and bioluminescent-fluorescent marker fusion proteins and show that AAV-delivered S-TRAIL leads to varying degrees of killing in multiple glioma lines, which correspond with caspase-3/7 activation. In vivo, dual bioluminescent imaging revealed efficient delivery of therapeutic AAV vectors directly into the tumor mass, which induced marked attenuation of tumor progression. Treatment of glioma cells with the chemotherapeutic agent temozolomide alone lead to a significant accumulation of cells in G2-M phase, activated the cell cycle checkpoint protein Chk1, and increased death receptor expression in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, combined treatment with AAV-S-TRAIL or neural stem cell-S-TRAIL and temozolomide induced cell killing and markedly up-regulated proapoptotic proteins in glioma cells least sensitive to TRAIL. This study elucidates novel means of delivering S-TRAIL to gliomas and suggests combination of clinically relevant temozolomide and S-TRAIL may represent a new therapeutic option with increased potency for glioblastoma patients. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(11):3575–85]
Novel Cardiac Apoptotic Pathway
Authors: Tan Wei-Qi , Wang Jian-Xun , Lin Zhi-Qiang , Li Yan-Rui , Lin Yu , Li Pei-Feng
Published: November 2008

Background—

Apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain (ARC) is abundantly expressed in cardiomyocytes. Protein kinase CK2 can phosphorylate ARC at threonine-149, thereby enabling ARC to antagonize apoptosis. ARC phosphorylation occurs in a constitutive manner. Nevertheless, cardiomyocytes still undergo apoptosis that is related to cardiac diseases such as myocardial infarction and heart failure. Whether the occurrence of apoptosis is related to the loss of protection by ARC under pathological conditions remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

ARC phosphorylation levels are decreased in cardiomyocytes treated with isoproterenol or aldosterone. We explored the molecular mechanism by which ARC phosphorylation levels are decreased. Our results reveal that either direct incubation or coexpression with calcineurin leads to a decrease in ARC phosphorylation levels. Inhibition of calcineurin can attenuate the reduction in ARC phosphorylation levels on treatment with isoproterenol or aldosterone. These data indicate that the reduction in ARC phosphorylation levels is related to its dephosphorylation by calcineurin. Our results further reveal that ARC can prevent isoproterenol- and aldosterone-induced apoptosis, but this function depends on its phosphorylation status. Isoproterenol and aldosterone upregulate Fas ligand expression, and Fas ligand and caspase-8 are required for isoproterenol and aldosterone to induce apoptosis. However, phosphorylated but not dephosphorylated ARC is able to inhibit caspase-8–mediated apoptosis. Phosphorylated ARC exerts its effects against caspase-8 by directly associating with procaspase-8 and inhibiting its interaction with Fas-associated protein with death domain.

Conclusions—

Our study identifies a novel cardiac apoptotic pathway in which ARC is dephosphorylated by calcineurin. This pathway could be a component in the cardiac apoptotic machinery.
Heart Failure With Preserved and Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction in the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial
Authors: Davis Barry R. , Kostis John B. , Simpson Lara M. , Black Henry R. , Cushman William C. , Einhorn Paula T. , Farber Michael A. , Ford Charles E. , Levy Daniel , Massie Barry M. , Nawaz Shah
Published: November 2008

Background—

Heart failure (HF) developing in hypertensive patients may occur with preserved or reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (PEF [≥50%] or REF [<50%]). In the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT), 42 418 high-risk hypertensive patients were randomized to chlorthalidone, amlodipine, lisinopril, or doxazosin, providing an opportunity to compare these treatments with regard to occurrence of hospitalized HFPEF or HFREF.

Methods and Results—

HF diagnostic criteria were prespecified in the ALLHAT protocol. EF estimated by contrast ventriculography, echocardiography, or radionuclide study was available in 910 of 1367 patients (66.6%) with hospitalized events meeting ALLHAT criteria. Cox regression models adjusted for baseline characteristics were used to examine treatment differences for HF (overall and by PEF and REF). HF case fatality rates were examined. Of those with EF data, 44.4% had HFPEF and 55.6% had HFREF. Chlorthalidone reduced the risk of HFPEF compared with amlodipine, lisinopril, or doxazosin; the hazard ratios were 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53 to 0.91;
P
=0.009), 0.74 (95% CI, 0.56 to 0.97;
P
=0.032), and 0.53 (95% CI, 0.38 to 0.73;
P
<0.001), respectively. Chlorthalidone reduced the risk of HFREF compared with amlodipine or doxazosin; the hazard ratios were 0.74 (95% CI, 0.59 to 0.94;
P
=0.013) and 0.61 (95% CI, 0.47 to 0.79;
P
<0.001), respectively. Chlorthalidone was similar to lisinopril with regard to incidence of HFREF (hazard ratio, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.82 to 1.40;
P
=0.596). After HF onset, death occurred in 29.2% of participants (chlorthalidone/amlodipine/lisinopril) with new-onset HFPEF versus 41.9% in those with HFREF (
P
<0.001; median follow-up, 1.74 years); and in the chlorthalidone/doxazosin comparison that was terminated early, 20.0% of HFPEF and 26.0% of HFREF patients died (
P
=0.185; median follow-up, 1.55 years).

Conclusions—

In ALLHAT, with adjudicated outcomes, chlorthalidone significantly reduced the occurrence of new-onset hospitalized HFPEF and HFREF compared with amlodipine and doxazosin. Chlorthalidone also reduced the incidence of new-onset HFPEF compared with lisinopril. Among high-risk hypertensive men and women, HFPEF has a better prognosis than HFREF.
Determinants of the Ambulatory Arterial Stiffness Index in 7604 Subjects From 6 Populations
Authors: Adiyaman Ahmet , Dechering Dirk G. , Boggia José , Li Yan , Hansen Tine W. , Kikuya Masahiro , Björklund-Bodegård Kristina , Richart Tom , Thijs Lutgarde , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Dolan Eamon , Imai Yutaka , Sandoya Edgardo , Ibsen Hans , Wang Jiguang , Lind Lars , O'Brien Eoin , Thien Theo , Staessen Jan A.
Published: November 2008

The ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) is derived from 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure recordings. We investigated whether the goodness-of-fit of the AASI regression line in individual subjects (
r
2
) impacts on the association of AASI with established determinants of the relation between diastolic and systolic blood pressures. We constructed the International Database on the Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Relation to Cardiovascular Outcomes (7604 participants from 6 countries). AASI was unity minus the regression slope of diastolic on systolic blood pressure in individual 24-hour ambulatory recordings. AASI correlated positively with age and 24-hour mean arterial pressure and negatively with body height and 24-hour heart rate. The single correlation coefficients and the mutually adjusted partial regression coefficients of AASI with age, height, 24-hour mean pressure, and 24-hour heart rate increased from the lowest to the highest quartile of
r
2
. These findings were consistent in dippers and nondippers (night:day ratio of systolic pressure ≥0.90), women and men, and in Europeans, Asians, and South Americans. The cumulative
z
score for the association of AASI with these determinants of the relation between diastolic and systolic blood pressures increased curvilinearly with
r
2
, with most of the improvement in the association occurring above the 20th percentile of
r
2
(0.36). In conclusion, a better fit of the AASI regression line enhances the statistical power of analyses involving AASI as marker of arterial stiffness. An
r
2
value of 0.36 might be a threshold in sensitivity analyses to improve the stratification of cardiovascular risk.
Tshwane, a San Name for Pretoria, South Africa
Authors: Raper Peter E.
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Tshwane is the Tswana name for the Apies River. This name has been used by Tswana speakers for many years also to refer to the city of Pretoria. In the process of the transformation of geographical names in South Africa, the name Tshwane has been proposed as a replacement for the name Pretoria. Various explanations of the meaning of the name Tshwane have been suggested, but most have been discarded on linguistic grounds. On the basis of the river name being primary, this article argues that Apies is synonymous with, or has the same meaning as, an ancient Bushman (San) name of which Tshwane is an adaptation.
Ethnicity and Women's Courtesy Titles: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Lillian Donna L.
Published: November 2008

AbstractAlthough numerous studies have been conducted on attitudes toward Ms. and patterns of Ms.-use since its popularization in the 1970s, few of these studies have examined ethnicity as a variable in its use. The present paper reports on a new online survey of women's courtesy titles and surname choices, focusing on the ethnicity of respondents as a predictor of their likelihood of addressing a woman with Ms. As the data include residents of both Canada and the United States, the label 'Black' is used rather than 'African American', and 'White' is then used in place of 'Caucasian', in order to have parallel ethnic labels. Preliminary results suggest a difference between Whites and Blacks in terms of likelihood of using Ms., with Blacks tending to prefer the more traditional titles Miss and Mrs. at a higher rate than Whites. However, because of uneven cell sizes and the under-representation of some ethnic groups, statistical results must be treated with caution until further data are available.
The human neonatal small intestine has the potential for arginine synthesis; developmental changes in the expression of arginine-synthesizing and -catabolizing enzymes
Authors: Köhler Eleonore S , Sankaranarayanan Selvakumari , van Ginneken Christa J , van Dijk Paul , Vermeulen Jacqueline LM , Ruijter Jan M , Lamers Wouter H , Bruder Elisabeth
Published: November 2008

Background

Milk contains too little arginine for normal growth, but its precursors proline and glutamine are abundant; the small intestine of rodents and piglets produces arginine from proline during the suckling period; and parenterally fed premature human neonates frequently suffer from hypoargininemia. These findings raise the question whether the neonatal human small intestine also expresses the enzymes that enable the synthesis of arginine from proline and/or glutamine.Carbamoylphosphate synthetase (CPS), ornithine aminotransferase (OAT), argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS), arginase-1 (ARG1), arginase-2 (ARG2), and nitric-oxide synthase (NOS) were visualized by semiquantitative immunohistochemistry in 89 small-intestinal specimens.

Results

Between 23 weeks of gestation and 3 years after birth, CPS- and ASS-protein content in enterocytes was high and then declined to reach adult levels at 5 years. OAT levels declined more gradually, whereas ARG-1 was not expressed. ARG-2 expression increased neonatally to adult levels. Neurons in the enteric plexus strongly expressed ASS, OAT, NOS1 and ARG2, while varicose nerve fibers in the circular layer of the muscularis propria stained for ASS and NOS1 only. The endothelium of small arterioles expressed ASS and NOS3, while their smooth-muscle layer expressed OAT and ARG2.

Conclusion

The human small intestine acquires the potential to produce arginine well before fetuses become viable outside the uterus. The perinatal human intestine therefore resembles that of rodents and pigs. Enteral ASS behaves as a typical suckling enzyme because its expression all but disappears in the putative weaning period of human infants.
PwRn1, a novel Ty3/gypsy-like retrotransposon of Paragonimus westermani: molecular characters and its differentially preserved mobile potential according to host chromosomal polyploidy
Authors: Bae Young-An , Ahn Jong-Sook , Kim Seon-Hee , Rhyu Mun-Gan , Kong Yoon , Cho Seung-Yull
Published: November 2008

Background

Retrotransposons have been known to involve in the remodeling and evolution of host genome. These reverse transcribing elements, which show a complex evolutionary pathway with diverse intermediate forms, have been comprehensively analyzed from a wide range of host genomes, while the information remains limited to only a few species in the phylum Platyhelminthes.

Results

A LTR retrotransposon and its homologs with a strong phylogenetic affinity toward CsRn1 of Clonorchis sinensis were isolated from a trematode parasite Paragonimus westermani via a degenerate PCR method and from an insect species Anopheles gambiae by in silico analysis of the whole mosquito genome, respectively. These elements, designated PwRn1 and AgCR-1 – AgCR-14 conserved unique features including a t-RNATrp primer binding site and the unusual CHCC signature of Gag proteins. Their flanking LTRs displayed >97% nucleotide identities and thus, these elements were likely to have expanded recently in the trematode and insect genomes. They evolved heterogeneous expression strategies: a single fused ORF, two separate ORFs with an identical reading frame and two ORFs overlapped by -1 frameshifting. Phylogenetic analyses suggested that the elements with the separate ORFs had evolved from an ancestral form(s) with the overlapped ORFs. The mobile potential of PwRn1 was likely to be maintained differentially in association with the karyotype of host genomes, as was examined by the presence/absence of intergenomic polymorphism and mRNA transcripts.

Conclusion

Our results on the structural diversity of CsRn1-like elements can provide a molecular tool to dissect a more detailed evolutionary episode of LTR retrotransposons. The PwRn1-associated genomic polymorphism, which is substantial in diploids, will also be informative in addressing genomic diversification following inter-/intra-specific hybridization in P. westermani populations.
Immunization against Clostridium perfringens cells elicits protection against Clostridium tetaniin mouse model: identification of cross-reactive proteins using proteomic methodologies
Authors: Alam Syed Imteyaz , Bansod Sunita , Singh Lokendra
Published: November 2008

Background

Clostridium tetani and Clostridium perfringens are among the medically important clostridial pathogens causing diseases in man and animals. Several homologous open reading frames (ORFs) have been identified in the genomes of the two pathogens by comparative genomic analysis. We tested a likelihood of extensive sharing of common epitopes between homologous proteins of these two medically important pathogens and the possibility of cross-protection using active immunization.

Results

Eight predominant cross-reactive spots were identified by mass spectrometry and had hits in the C. tetani E88 proteome with significant MOWSE scores. Most of the cross-reactive proteins of C. tetani shared 65–78% sequence similarity with their closest homologues in C. perfringens ATCC13124. Electron transfer flavoprotein beta-subunit (CT3) was the most abundant protein (43.3%), followed by methylaspartate ammonia-lyase (36.8%) and 2-phosphoglycerate dehydratase (35.6%). All the proteins were predicted to be cytoplasmic by PSORT protein localization algorithm. Active immunization with C. perfringens whole cells elicited cross-protective immunity against C. tetani infection in a mouse model.

Conclusion

Most of the dominant cross-reactive proteins of C. tetani belonged to the cluster of orthologous group (COG) functional category, either of posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones (O) or energy production and conversion (C). The homologs of the identified proteins have been shown to play role in pathogenesis in other Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria. Our findings provide basis for the search of potential vaccine candidates with broader coverage, encompassing more than one pathogenic clostridial species.
Women's attitude towards prenatal screening for red blood cell antibodies, other than RhD
Authors: Koelewijn JM , Vrijkotte TGM , de Haas M , van der Schoot CE , Bonsel GJ
Published: November 2008

Background

Since July 1998 all Dutch women (± 200,000/y) are screened for red cell antibodies, other than anti-RhesusD (RhD) in the first trimester of pregnancy, to facilitate timely treatment of pregnancies at risk for hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Evidence for benefits, consequences and costs of screening for non-RhD antibodies is still under discussion. The screening program was evaluated in a nation-wide study. As a part of this evaluation study we investigated, according to the sixth criterium of Wilson and Jüngner, the acceptance by pregnant women of the screening program for non-RhD antibodies.

Methods

Controlled longitudinal survey, including a prenatal and a postnatal measurement by structured questionnaires. Main outcome measures: information satisfaction, anxiety during the screening process (a.o. STAI state inventory and specific questionnaire modules), overall attitude on the screening program. Univariate analysis was followed by standard multivariate analysis to identify significant predictors of the outcome measures. Participants: 233 pregnant women, distributed over five groups, according to the screening result.

Results

Satisfaction about the provided information was moderate in all groups. All screen- positive groups desired more supportive information. Anxiety increased in screen- positives during the screening process, but decreased to basic levels postnatally. All groups showed a strongly positive balance between perceived utility and burden of the screening program, independent on test results or background characteristics.

Conclusion

Women highly accept the non-RhD antibody screening program. However, satisfaction about provided information is moderate. Oral and written information should be provided by obstetric care workers themselves, especially to screen-positive women.
Characterization of prostate cancer detected at repeat biopsy
Authors: Yuasa Takeshi , Tsuchiya Norihiko , Kumazawa Teruaki , Inoue Takamitsu , Narita Shintaro , Saito Mitsuru , Horikawa Yohei , Satoh Shigeru , Habuchi Tomonori
Published: November 2008

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of prostate cancer patients who were diagnosed at repeat biopsy and compare them to non-cancerous patients or patients who were diagnosed at initial biopsy.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective analysis of clinical and pathological data from 576 patients, which included data on the period of time from radical prostatectomy to biochemical failure.

Results

Cancer was diagnosed in 191 (33%) of 576 patients at initial biopsy and in 23 (18%) of 127 patients who underwent a repeat biopsy. Cut-off values of 0.80 and 0.30 for prostate specific antigen velocity (PSAV) and prostate specific antigen density (PSAD), respectively, were determined using ROC curve analysis. Based on these values, PSAV and PSAD were able to predict 94% (46 of 49) of negative repeat biopsies, indicating that these patients had undergone unnecessary repeat biopsies. Although the patients who were diagnosed at repeat biopsy had a higher rate of organ-confined tumor than those who were diagnosed at initial biopsy (73% and 44%, respectively; P = 0.041), there were no differences in the recurrence rate or the duration of biochemical failure-free survival between the two groups.

Conclusion

PSAV and PSAD may be useful indicators of the results of repeat biopsies. Although prostate cancer that was diagnosed at repeat biopsy was associated with a more favorable pathological profile, it was not associated with a better outcome after radical prostatectomy.
Experience with adjuvant chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei secondary to mucinous adenocarcinoma of the appendix with oxaliplatin/fluorouracil/leucovorin (FOLFOX4)
Authors: Chen Chin-Fan , Huang Che-Jen , Kang Wan-Yi , Hsieh Jan-Sing
Published: November 2008

Background

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition characterized by mucinous tumors, disseminated intra-peritoneal implants, and mucinous ascites. So far its diagnosis remains challenging to most clinicians.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old male patient had suffered from acute onset of abdominal pain and abdominal distension for one day prior to his admission. Physical examination revealed tenderness over the right lower quadrant of the abdomen without diffuse muscle guarding. A large amount of ascites was identified by abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan. Paracentesis showed the appearance of sticky mucinous ascites. He underwent laparotomy under the impression of pseudomyxoma peritonei. There was a lot of mucinous ascites, one appendiceal tumor and multiple peritoneal implants disseminated from the subphrenic space to the recto-vesicle pouch. Pseudomyxoma Peritonei caused by mucinous adenocarcinoma of appendiceal origin, was confirmed by histopathology. We performed an excision of the appendiceal tumor combined with copious irrigation and debridement. After the operation, he received 10 cycles of systemic chemotherapy with FOLFOX4 regimen, without specific morbidity. Follow-up of abdominal CT and colonoscopy at post-operative 17 months showed excellent response without evidence of local recurrence or distal metastasis. He made an uneventful recovery (up to the present) for 21 months after the operation.

Conclusion

This case report emphasizes the possible new role of systemic chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with this rare clinical syndrome.
Pathogenesis of HIV infection: implications for treatment and prevention
Authors: Lane HC
Published: November 2008

9‐13 November 2008, Ninth International Congress on Drug Therapy in HIV Infection, Glasgow, UK
A prospective trial of elective extubation in brain injured patients meeting extubation criteria for ventilatory support: a feasibility study
Authors: Manno Edward M , Rabinstein Alejandro A , Wijdicks Eelco FM , Brown Allen W , Freeman William D , Lee Vivien H , Weigand Stephen D , Keegan Mark T , Brown Daniel R , Whalen Francis X , Roy Tuhin K , Hubmayr Rolf D
Published: November 2008

Introduction

To assess the safety and feasibility of recruiting mechanically ventilated patients with brain injury who are solely intubated for airway protection and randomising them into early or delayed extubation, and to obtain estimates to refine sample-size calculations for a larger study. The design is a single-blinded block randomised controlled trial. A single large academic medical centre is the setting.

Methods

Sixteen neurologically stable but severely brain injured patients with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of 8 or less were randomised to early or delayed extubation until their neurological examination improved. Eligible patients met standard respiratory criteria for extubation and passed a modified Airway Care Score (ACS) to ensure adequate control of respiratory secretions. The primary outcome measured between groups was the functional status of the patient at hospital discharge as measured by a Modified Rankin Score (MRS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Secondary measurements included the number of nosocomial pneumonias and re-intubations, and intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay. Standard statistical assessments were employed for analysis.

Results

Five female and eleven male patients ranging in age from 30 to 93 years were enrolled. Aetiologies responsible for the neurological injury included six head traumas, three brain tumours, two intracerebral haemorrhages, two subarachnoid haemorrhages and three ischaemic strokes. There were no demographic differences between the groups. There were no unexpected deaths and no significant differences in secondary measures. The difference in means between the MRS and FIM were small (0.25 and 5.62, respectively). These results suggest that between 64 and 110 patients are needed in each treatment arm to detect a treatment effect with 80% power.

Conclusions

Recruitment and randomisation of severely brain injured patients appears to be safe and feasible. A large multicentre trial will be needed to determine if stable, severely brain injured patients who meet respiratory and airway control criteria for extubation need to remain intubated.
Polymorphism in the Microglial Cell-Mobilizing CX3CR1 Gene Is Associated With Survival in Patients With Glioblastoma
Authors: Rodero Mathieu , Marie Yannick , Coudert Mathieu , Blondet Emmeline , Mokhtari Karima , Rousseau Audrey , Raoul William , Carpentier Catherine , Sennlaub Florian , Deterre Philippe , Delattre Jean-Yves , Debré Patrice , Sanson Marc , Combadière Christophe
Published: November 2008

Purpose

Few reliable prognostic molecular markers have been characterized for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), considered the deadliest of human cancers. We hypothesized that genetic polymorphisms in chemokines and their receptors, which together control microglial cell mobilization, may influence survival.

Methods

Distributions of one polymorphism of the chemokine CCL2 (−2518A<G) and two polymorphisms of the chemokine receptor CX3CR1 (termed V249I and T280M) were determined in a prospective series of 230 patients with GBM and correlated with overall survival. The replication study used data from a retrospective series of 106 additional patients with GBM. The extent of microglial cell infiltration was assessed by immunochemistry in 102 tumor specimens.

Results

Survival analysis showed that the common CX3CR1-I249 allele was an independent favorable prognostic factor in both groups, prospective and retrospective, with hazard ratios of 0.619 (95% CI, 0.451 to 0.850; P = .0031) and 0.354 (95% CI, 0.217 to 0.580; P < .0001), respectively. This beneficial effect was observed only in patients who underwent surgery. Patients with only this CX3CR1-I249 allele had a substantially longer mean survival (23.5 v 14.1 months; P < .0001). The CCL2-2518G allele was not associated with patient survival. Immunohistochemical analysis of primary tumor biopsies showed that the common CX3CR1 variant allele was associated with reduced microglial cell infiltration.

Conclusion

The common CX3CR1 allelic variant was associated with increased GBM survival and with reduced tumor infiltration by microglia. The CX3CR1 polymorphism does not seem to be a risk factor for GBM but may prove useful in predicting survival.
Five-Year Data and Prognostic Factor Analysis of Oxaliplatin and Irinotecan Combinations for Advanced Colorectal Cancer: N9741
Authors: Sanoff Hanna K. , Sargent Daniel J. , Campbell Megan E. , Morton Roscoe F. , Fuchs Charles S. , Ramanathan Ramesh K. , Williamson Stephen K. , Findlay Brian P. , Pitot Henry C. , Goldberg Richard M.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

In this report, we update survival (OS) and time-to-progression (TTP) data for the Intergroup trial N9741 after a median 5 years of follow-up by using risk-stratified and prognostic factor analyses to determine if treatment outcomes differ in specific patient subgroups.

Patients and Methods

A total of 1,691 patients were randomly assigned to one of seven fluorouracil-, oxaliplatin-, and irinotecan-containing regimens. OS and TTP were calculated by treatment arm and baseline risk group (on the basis of WBC, performance status, number of sites of disease, and alkaline phosphatase). Multivariate prognostic factor analysis was used to assess clinical factors for their relationships to OS, TTP, response, and toxicity by using Cox and logistic regression models.

Results

The observed 5-year survival with infusional fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) of 9.8% was better than with irinotecan plus bolus fluorouracil and leucovorin (IFL; 3.7%; P = .04) or with bolus irinotecan/oxaliplatin (IROX; 5.1%; P = .128). OS and TTP were significantly longer for FOLFOX (20.2 months and 8.9 months, respectively) than for IFL (14.6 months and 6.1 months, respectively; P < .001 for both) or for IROX (17.3 months and 6.7 months, respectively; P < .001 for both). OS differed by risk group: 20.7 months for low risk, 17.4 months for intermediate risk, and 9.4 months for high risk (P < .001). FOLFOX treatment was superior in all risk groups and was the most powerful prognostic factor for OS, TTP, response rate, and toxicity.

Conclusion

The 9.8% 5-year OS in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who were treated with first-line FOLFOX sets a new benchmark. Neither baseline risk group nor any prognostic factor examined was predictive of treatment-specific outcome. However, treatment efficacy and patient longevity varied as a function of risk group.
Deterioration of polyamide powder properties in the laser sintering process
Authors: Pham D T , Dotchev K D , Yusoff W A Y
Published: November 2008

Polyamide 12 (PA12)-based powders are the most used materials in the laser sintering (LS) process for rapid manufacturing of functional parts. An average of 80–90 per cent of the powdered material in the LS building chamber is not sintered and could be reused. However, the properties of the recycled powder vary, which ultimately affects the quality of produced parts. These differences are due to the process conditions such as temperature and time, the LS machine design, and properties of the powder used for parts fabrication. This paper analyses the LS processing conditions and current recycling practices in relation with the deterioration or ageing of the PA12-based powders. Samples of new and recycled grades of PA2200 powder were artificially aged in a temperature-controlled oven and then tested using differential scanning calorimetry, melt flowrate indexer, and gel permeation chromatography. It has been found that the temperature and the time at which the unsintered powder was exposed are the most influential factors for the deterioration of LS powder properties.
Escherichia coli tmRNA lacking pseudoknot 1 tags truncated proteins in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Wower Iwona K. , Zwieb Christian , Wower Jacek
Published: November 2008

Transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA) and protein SmpB facilitate trans-translation, a quality-control process that tags truncated proteins with short peptides recognized by a number of proteases and recycles ribosomes stalled at the 3′ end of mRNA templates lacking stop codons. The tmRNA molecule is a hybrid of tRNA- and mRNA-like domains that are usually connected by four pseudoknots (pk1–pk4). Replacement of pk1 with a single-stranded RNA yields pk1L, a mutant tmRNA that tags truncated proteins very poorly in vitro but very efficiently in vivo. However, deletion of the whole pk1 is deleterious for protein tagging. In contrast, deletion of helix 4 yields Δh4, a fully functional tmRNA derivative containing a single hairpin instead of pk1. Further deletions in the pk1 segment yield two subclasses of mutant tmRNAs that are unable to tag truncated proteins, but some of them bind to stalled ribosomes. Our studies demonstrate that pk1 is not essential for tmRNA functions but contributes to the stability of the tmRNA structure. Our studies also indicate that the length of this RNA segment is critical for both tmRNA binding to the ribosome and resumption of translation.
Social categorization and empathy for outgroup members
Authors: Tarrant Mark , Dazeley Sarah , Cottom Tom
Published: November 2008

Three experiments (N =370) investigated the effects of social categorization on the experience of empathy. In Experiment 1, university students reported their empathy for, and intentions to help, a student who described a distressful experience. As predicted, participants reported stronger empathy and helping intentions when the student belonged to an ingroup compared to an outgroup university. Experiments 2 and 3 demonstrated that stronger empathy for outgroup members was experienced following the activation of an ingroup norm that prescribed the experience of this emotion. Activating this norm also led to the expression of more positive attitudes towards the outgroup (Experiment 3), and empathy fully mediated this effect. These findings indicate that like other emotions, empathy is influenced by social categorization processes.
Method in the Madness: The Strategic Uses of Absurdity and the Unexpected in Psychotherapy
Authors: Cullin Joel
Published: November 2008

This article explores some of the uses of absurdity and the unexpected in psychotherapy. Case examples are used to ground the discussion of some key ideas that inform an understanding of how absurdity and the unexpected might serve as catalysts or primers for change in the psychotherapeutic context. Erickson's confusion technique and some ideas derived from Bateson's understanding of cybernetics also serve an explanatory purpose.
Density Functional Study of the Influence of Carbon Doping on the Aluminum-27 and Nitrogen-14 Electric Field Gradient Tensors in (10, 0) Single-Walled Aluminum Nitride Nanotube
Authors: Seif Ahmad , Mirzaei Mahmoud
Published: November 2008

Density functional theory (DFT) study was performed to investigate the influence of carbon doping (C-doping) on the electric field gradient (EFG) tensors at the sites of aluminum-27 (27Al) and nitrogen-14 (14N) nuclei in (10, 0) single-walled aluminum nitride nanotube (AlNNT). Two models of original and C-doped AlNNTs were optimized at first and then the EFG tensors were calculated in the optimized structures. The calculated EFG tensors were converted to measurable nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectroscopy parameters, quadrupole coupling constant (C

Q
) and asymmetry parameter (η

Q
). The calculated parameters in the original model reveal that the Al and N atoms located at the mouths of nanotube have the largest C

Q
values revealing their remarkable role in AlNNTs. When C-doping occurs, the C

Q
values of those nuclei directly bonding to C are significantly increased meaning that the active sites in the C-doped model are increased. The results also reveal that the Al and N play the basic and acidic agents roles, respectively, in AlNNT which is better observed in the C-doped model.
A Novel Solvent-free Electrolyte Based on LiBOB and Acetamide for Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Yu Shuxian , Li Wei , Yang Zhenyu , Zhang Ning , Gu Ningyu , Gao Lijun
Published: November 2008

Room temperature molten salts or ionic liquids are promising “solvent-free” electrolytes for high-voltage double layer supercapacitors. In this work, a novel binary room temperature molten salt electrolyte based on LiBOB and acetamide has been prepared. The electrolyte shows excellent thermal stability, high ionic conductivity and a wide electrochemical stability window, especially at higher temperatures. The temperature dependence of conductivity for the electrolytes follows the VFT equation, which demonstrates a solvent-assisted ionic conductivity mechanism. The EDLC with the LiBOB-acetamide complex electrolyte at molar ratio of 1:6 can be charged up to 2.5 V with better rate performance. The specific capacitance based on activated carbon electrodes can reach 103.1 F g−1. It is reasonable to assume that LiBOB-acetamide complex system has advantages as electrolyte for EDLCs with high energy density.
Photoinduced Electron Transfer from Meso-Tetrakis (N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin (TMPyP) to Colloidal CdS
Authors: Jhonsi M. Asha , Renganathan R.
Published: November 2008

A stable colloidal CdS nanoparticles were prepared. The dynamics of photoinduced interaction between meso-tetrakis(N-methylpyridyl)porphyrin (TMPyP) and colloidal CdS were studied using absorption, steady state, time resolved fluorescence and FT-IR spectral measurements. The apparent association constant (K
app) of TMPyP-CdS obtained from absorption spectral changes is 1.07×103 M−1. The K
app value of TMPyP-CdS as determined from fluorescence spectra is 1.34×103 M−1, which matches well with that determined from the absorption spectra changes. These data indicate that there is an interaction between TMPyP and colloidal CdS nanoparticle surface. The dynamics of photoinduced electron transfer from TMPyP to the conduction band of colloidal CdS nanoparticle has been observed and the mechanism of electron transfer has been confirmed by the calculation of free energy change (ΔG
et) by applying Rehm-Weller equation as well as energy level diagram. Lifetime measurements gave the rate constant (k
et) for electron injection from the excited state TMPyP into the conduction band of CdS is 3.21×108 s–1.
The Transition of Taiwan's Political Geography
Authors: Lay Jinn-Guey , Yap Ko-Hua , Chen Yu-Wen
Published: November 2008

This article reveals that the pan-blue camp has traditionally enjoyed a stable regional stronghold in eastern and certain parts of northern Taiwan. The pan-green camp was scattered but grew to form a considerable southern bloc from 1998 to 2000. Ethnic distribution can partially explain this geographical variation.