bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exile and demographic population growth in Serbia
Authors: Stevanovic Radoslav
Published: October 2010

The data of the 2002 population census on refugee population are analyzed in this paper with a basic aim to determine the significance (contribution) of refugee corpus in demographic development of the Republic of Serbia. By analyzing the data, it has been determined that the refugee corpus does not significantly differ from the domicile population in the basic, above all demographic and other qualitative characteristics. The differences which can be noticed with certain (primarily socio-economic) characteristics, due to the proportionally small participation of refugee persons in relation to the total (domicile) population, could not significantly influence the total demographic, socio-economic and other characteristics of the population of central Serbia and Vojvodina. The most significant contribution of refugee (classifying the refugee corpus in the country's total population) is reflected in the mitigation of the depopulation trend, namely population growth, not only both micro-entities, but also lower administrative-territorial entities (districts) depending on the enumerated refugee population in them. However, population projections indicate that by the middle of this century (2050) the positive effects of the basically larger number of inhabitants will be lost caused by the inflow of refugee population.
Gender inequality on the example of socio-demographic structures of Belgrade population
Authors: Kuburovic Ankica
Published: October 2010

An analysis of demographic characteristics from the gender perspective represents a contribution to enlightening the social relations between female and male population in Belgrade. Gender specificity and explicitness of socio-demographic structures indicate to different positions and statuses of the female and male populations. There are more females than men in the total population of the capital city of Serbia. The sex imbalance of age groups is determined by gender differences in the number of born boys and girls, in migration characteristics and in the level of mortality. The male population is greater in the age group up to 20 years old, while the female population is more numerous among the middle-aged and older generations. Gender differences in marital structure, level of education and economic activities cannot be reduced only to demographic limits. A larger rate of married persons among the males in relation to female population is determined by the different behavior in view of remarriage in case of divorce or death of partner. Women are widowed or divorced more often than men, which can be interpreted as a less favorable position in everyday functioning, especially when the women have small or school-age children, as well as in the case of older women. Gender differences in the level of education of Belgrade population are not exceptionally pronounced and are a consequence of unfavorable positions of older women to a certain degree. Differences in economic activity, among other things, are determined by uneven utilization of female and male work force. The rate of economic activity is greater in the male population, and the coefficient of economic dependency in the female population. The gender difference in the rate of supported persons among the work capable population increases the unfavorable social position of women. The characteristics of socio-demographic structures of female and male population of the city of Belgrade vary by areas. The manifestation of gender differences can be connected with demographic and sociological specificities of the proper and wider city region. The rate of divorced women in Belgrade proper is especially marked as well as the rate of supported persons in the female population in Belgrade suburbs. Imbalance in the education level between women and men is less distinct than the differences in educational structures by regions with population of both sexes.
Suicides in Serbia at the beginning of the 21st century and trends in the past fifty years
Authors: Penev Goran , Stankovic Biljana
Published: October 2010

In 2006 in Serbia, 1444 persons committed suicide (19.5 per 100.000 population. Compared to the early 50s of the 20th century, the number of suicides has nearly doubled, but there has been a moderate decrease in the last 15 years. Similar, but somewhat more moderate tendencies are noted in the change of the value of the suicide rates. The lowest suicide rates were recorded during the 1950s, around 12 per 100.000, and the highest in the last decade of the 20th century when the rate reached 20 suicides per 100.000 inhabitants. The highest suicide rate is among the elderly, and there is also a noticeable tendency of increase in the share of the elderly in the total number of suicides, which is primarily the consequence of intense demographic aging. With youth, the last thirty years note a decline of both the number of suicides and the value of the suicide rates. The number of young people aged 15-24 who have committed suicide in 2006 is less than half of the number from 1971 (decreased from 150 to 66), and the values of suicide rates are also significantly low (decreased from 11.5 to 6.9 per 100.000). Despite certain changes in the values of age-specific suicide rates achieved in the last 50 years, their age patterns of suicide mortality can be characterized as stable. Men are dominant among persons who have committed suicide, with double the number of women, and the highest recorded value of the suicide rate of women never surpassed the value of the lowest suicide rate in men. In terms of marital status, the total rate of suicides is highest with widowers then divorced persons, married persons, and lowest rates are with celibates. In all four groups, suicide rates are at least 3 times higher for men. There is also a clear connection between the level of education and suicide rates for both sexes, with the suicide rate decreasing with higher educational level. In terms of total suicide rate, Serbia is currently in the top half of the European list of countries, closer to countries with highest suicide rates than fifteen years ago. Results achieved in other countries, especially in some former communist countries, imply that defining and conducting a strategy for suicide prevention could have significant effect on the decrease of suicides in Serbia as well.
Population and population policy: French model
Authors: Parant Alain
Published: October 2010

Generations born today, or at least are trying to be, are scarcer than before all over the world. This decrease in the number of children is affecting modern societies in many spheres. If it was to be supported by efficient policies, it could be the source of a general improvement of life conditions. However, if this phenomenon continues or becomes drastic, it could ultimately lead to slower or faster demographic ageing, which could endanger many social heritages. Public intervention must, in that case, impinge much deeper, but without guarantees for a complete, if not permanent, success. The introductory part of the article is dedicated to the concept "demographic revolution" which was developed in 1934 by the French politician and demographer Adolphe Landry, in order to mark the development of a demographic regime which is characterized by a universally accepted practice of birth control, which represents a response for the essential concern for life standard improvement, not only for the parents but their children as well. But then, birth control is the primary cause of population ageing. The article further presents some of the most striking traits of the current French demographic situation, as its future development. France has a positive balance of population exchange with the remaining part of the world, as most of the Western European countries, but still the greatest part of its demographic increase is obtained from a larger number of births than deaths. Because of this, France is often seen as a real demographic paradise in Europe, whose population is decreasing and ageing. This image is certainly flattering, but it is becoming very contradictory after an analysis of long-term trends of fertility indicators and population ageing. The third part of the article, with the situation in France in focus, investigates the modalities and limitations of activities which a society, faced with demographic ageing and decreasing number of children, can apply: policies or simple "adjusting along the way" to demographic processes measures; policies and measures which are more intervening - even in the completely private sphere of birth-giving, and directed towards the limitation of some very unfavorable effects and not towards the change of strongly expressed tendencies of population ageing.
OCT1 Expression in Adipocytes Could Contribute to Increased Metformin Action in Obese Subjects
Authors: Moreno-Navarrete José María , Ortega Francisco J. , Rodríguez-Hermosa José-Ignacio , Sabater Mònica , Pardo Gerard , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández-Real José Manuel
Published: October 2010

OBJECTIVE

Metformin has been well characterized in vitro as a substrate of liver-expressed organic cation transporters (OCTs). We investigated the gene expression and protein levels of OCT-1 and OCT-2 in adipose tissue and during adipogenesis and evaluated their possible role in metformin action on adipocytes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

OCT1 and OCT2 gene expressions were analyzed in 118 adipose tissue samples (57 visceral and 61 subcutaneous depots) and during human preadipocyte differentiation. To test the possible role of OCT1 mediating the response of adipocytes to metformin, cotreatments with cimetidine (OCT blocker, 0.5 and 5 mmol/l) and metformin were made on human preadipocytes and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT).

RESULTS

OCT1 gene was expressed in both subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue. In both fat depots, OCT1 gene expression and protein levels were significantly increased in obese subjects. OCT1 gene expression in isolated preadipocytes significantly increased during differentiation in parallel to adipogenic genes. Metformin (5 mmol/l) decreased the expression of lipogenic genes and lipid droplets accumulation while increasing AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, preventing differentiation of human preadipocytes. Cotreatment with cimetidine restored adipogenesis. Furthermore, metformin decreased IL-6 and MCP-1 gene expression in comparison with differentiated adipocytes. Metformin (0.1 and 1 mmol/l) decreased adipogenic and inflammatory genes in SAT. OCT2 gene expression was not detected in adipose tissue and was very small in isolated preadipocytes, disappearing during adipogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

OCT1 gene expression and protein levels are detectable in adipose tissue. Increased OCT1 gene expression in adipose tissue of obese subjects might contribute to increased metformin action in these subjects.
Optimization of 5-rod Car Suspension for Elastokinematic and Dynamic Characteristics
Authors: Knapczyk Józef , Maniowski Michał
Published: October 2010

Optimization of 5-rod Car Suspension for Elastokinematic and Dynamic Characteristics

The paper presents optimization of 5-rod (5-link) suspension mechanism used in passenger cars for independent guiding of the wheels. Selected stiffness coefficients defined for five elastomeric bushings installed in joints of the suspension rods are considered as design variables. Two models with lumped parameters (i.e. elastokinematic and dynamic) of wheel-suspension-car body system are formulated to describe relationships between the design variables and the performance indexes including car active safety and ride comfort, respectively. The multi-criteria goal function is minimized using a deterministic algorithm. The suspension with optimized bushings rates fulfils desired elastokinematic criteria together with a defined dynamic criterion, describing the so-called rolling comfort. An event of car passing over short road bump is considered as dynamic conditions. The numerical example deals with an actual middle-class passenger car with 5-rod suspension at the front driven axle. Estimation of the models parameters and their verification were carried out on the basis of indoor and outdoor experiments. The proposed optimization procedure can be used to improve the suspension design or development cycle.
Organizational Routines as Coupling Mechanisms
Authors: Spillane James P. , Parise Leigh Mesler , Sherer Jennifer Zoltners
Published: October 2010

The institutional environment of America’s schools has changed substantially as government regulation has focused increasingly on the core technical work of schools—instruction. The authors explore the school administrative response to this changing environment, describing how government regulation becomes embodied in the formal structure of four schools. Working at coupling government regulation with classroom teaching, school leaders transformed the formal structure, paying particular attention to designing new organizational routines. Analyzing the performance of these routines, the authors show how both government regulation and the technical core featured prominently, if selectively, and explore how routines enabled coupling by promoting standardization through alignment with common standards, by monitoring teacher and student performance, and by making aspects of instruction transparent.
Surgical treatment of vulvar vestibulitis: a review
Authors: Tommola Päivi , Unkila‐Kallio Leila , Paavonen Jorma
Published: October 2010

Vulvar vestibulitis syndrome, a subset of vulvodynia, is a complex pain syndrome. It causes severe dyspareunia and affects mainly young women. The etiology is unknown and no uniformly effective treatment exists. Surgery has been considered as ‘the last resort’ in the management of patients not responding to conservative treatment modalities. For this review, all studies of surgical treatment of vulvar vestibulitis were evaluated. We describe the evolution of vestibulectomy techniques through the years. Our aim was also to find out whether any surgical technique is better than others providing better patient satisfaction and lower complication rates. We conclude that surgical technique as such plays a relatively small role. Surgery seems to be effective. However, lack of randomized trials and insufficient data on complication rates must be emphasized.
Decreased 1,25‐dihydroxy vitamin D levels in women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Wikström Shemer Elisabeth , Marschall Hanns‐Ulrich
Published: October 2010

Objective. The pathogenesis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) involves impaired bile acid and estrogen/progesterone metabolism and excretion based on genetic and environmental factors. The role of vitamin D is undefined. Design. Observational study. Setting. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Danderyd Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Population. Swedish. Method. We measured serum 1,25‐dihydroxy vitamin D3 (1,25‐D3) and parathormone in 22 women with ICP at presentation, in comparison with 11 healthy women at delivery. Results. ICP women had significantly (p = 0.0041) lower levels of 1,25‐D3 in serum (76.4 ± 23.1 vs. 112.0 ± 40 ng/L, mean ± SD), unrelated to serum bile acids. 1,25‐D3 levels were inversely correlated (p < 0.05) to meconium staining of amniotic fluid. Parathormone levels did not differ between ICP and healthy women. Conclusion. Lower 1,25‐D3 levels in ICP are inversely correlated by meconium staining, a major indicator of fetal distress. Our finding may have pathogenetic and clinical implications since vitamin D regulates steroid metabolism and 1,25‐D3 deficiency may impair fetal outcome.
Comparison of first and second trimester ultrasound screening for fetal anomalies in the southeast region of Sweden
Authors: Hildebrand Eric , Selbing Anders , Blomberg Marie
Published: October 2010

Objective. To assess and compare the sensitivity for detecting fetal anomalies and chromosomal aberrations by routine ultrasound examination performed in the second trimester with results from an examination performed at 11–14 weeks gestation. Design. Observational study. Setting. Five centers in the southeast region of Sweden. Population. A total of 21,189 unselected pregnant women. Methods. The scan was performed at one center in the first trimester and at the remaining four centers in the second trimester. Outcome measures resulting from first trimester scanning were compared with those from the second trimester scanning. Main outcome measures. Detection rates of fetal structural anomalies and chromosomal aberrations. Results. At the first trimester scan 13% of all anomalies were detected, and at the second trimester scan 29% were detected. Lethal anomalies were detected at a high level at both times: 88% in the first, 92% in the second. The percentage of chromosomal aberrations discovered at the early scan was 71%, in the later 42%. The percentage of heart malformations detected was surprisingly low. Conclusion. The results showed the advantages of the later scan in discovering anomalies of the heart, urinary tract and CNS, and of the early scan in discovering chromosomal aberrations. Lethal malformations were detected at a high level in both groups, but detection of heart malformations needs improvement.
Sexual behavior and contraception among young Polish women
Authors: Olszewski Jaroslaw , Olszewska Hanna , Abacjew‐Chmylko Anna , Chmylko Lukasz , Gaworska‐Krzeminska Aleksandra , Wydra Dariusz
Published: October 2010

Objective. To analyze sexual behavior and the use of contraception among young women in Poland. Design. Cross‐sectional study. Population. 1,478 young women in higher (78.9%) and secondary (21.1%) education. Setting. Gdansk region in Poland. Methods. The data were gathered between September and December 2008 by the use of a questionnaire prepared for the purpose of this study, completed anonymously and in person by the young women. Results. Sexual activity had been initiated by 67.2% of the women studied at a mean age of 18.7 years (±1.97). Assessment was made of changes in their contraceptive practice between the time of sexual initiation and later sexual activity. Since their first experience of intercourse 67.0% did not change their contraceptive methods. As many as 40.1% continued using either low effective methods or no contraception. Early sexual initiation was linked to a significantly lower likelihood of highly effective contraception, more frequent unprotected sexual intercourse and more sexual partners (p < 0.05). Over half of women assigned to a ‘high‐risk’ group with regard to the chance of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection, declared that their behavior did not carry any risk, similar (p > 0.05) to those who did not have a history of hazardous behavior. Conclusion. Sexual behavior differentiates Polish women from the women in Western Europe. Despite the welcome tendency toward choosing reliable contraceptives, use of appropriate contraception is still insufficient.
Diorganogallium Complexes Containing Tripodal Schiff Bases: Synthesis and Structure of [N{Me2GaO(C6H4)CH=N–CH2–CH2-}3]
Authors: Pal Manoj K. , Kushwah Nisha P. , Wadawale Amey P. , Jain Vimal K.
Published: October 2010

Treatment of triorganogallium etherates with tripodal Schiff bases in benzene gave complexes of composition [N{R2GaO(C6H3X)CH=N–CH2–CH2–}3] (R = Me, Et; X = H, OMe) in nearly quantitative yield. The molecular structure of [N{Me2GaO(C6H4)CH=N–CH2–CH2–}3] revealed that there are two different types of molecules in the crystal lattice each containing three distorted tetrahedral gallium atoms.
Multi-Component Reaction between Cyclohexyl Isocyanide, Cyanoacetic Acid and Aldehyde: Synthesis of Methyl 2-Cyano-3-(Aryl)-Cyclohexylcarbamoyl-(Aryl)-Acrylate
Authors: Anary-Abbasinejad Mohammad , Hassanabadi Alireza , Kaldareh Mahdiye Foroughi
Published: October 2010

An improved multicomponent reaction of cyclohexyl isocyanide is described. The reaction between two equivalents of an aldehydes, cyclohexyl isocyanide and cyanoacetic acid at room temperature leads to methyl 2-cyano-3-(aryl)-cyclohexylcarbamoyl-(aryl)-acrylate in good yields.
A Mild and Efficient Method for Formation of C–N Bond from Benzyl Alcohols and Sulfonamide, Carboxamide, 4-Nitroanline and Azide Catalysed by SnCl4
Authors: Li Lingjun , Zhu Anlian , Yao Huiwen , Wei Yujing , Yang Di , Li Jianping , Zhang Guisheng
Published: October 2010

A mild and efficient method for the formation of C–N bonds is reported with SnCl4 as an inexpensive catalyst. With 10 mol% of SnCl4, the direct substitution reaction of secondary benzyl alcohols with a sulfonamide, a carboxamide, 4-nitroaniline and an azide proceeds well in good to excellent yields at room temperature.
The Synthesis of a Chiral β-Amino Acid Derivative by the Grignard Reaction of an Aspartic Acid Equivalent
Authors: Liu Feng , Yu Wansheng , Ou Wenhua , Xu Xiaojiong , Ruan Libo , Wang Xiaoke , Li Yiming , Peng Xijiang , Tao Xiaohu , Mao Jun , Wan Jiaomei , Pan Xianhua
Published: October 2010

A novel synthetic route to chiral β-amino acid derivative has been developed by a Grignard reaction of 2,4,5-trifluo-rophenyl magnesium bromide with the Weinreb amide derivative of L-aspartic acid. The aspartic equivalent was synthesised from L-aspartic acid in four steps, and the Grignard reagent was prepared by Br–Mg-exchange reaction. The target compound was achieved after the Grignard reaction and a subsequent reduction. Tthe stereo structure of the chiral amine was well preserved from the L-aspartic acid.
Transformation of 5-Methoxy-1-Tetralone into 8-Methoxy-1-Tetralone
Authors: Banerjee Ajoy K. , Bedoya Liadis , Adherían Maria E. , Vera William J. , Cabrera Elvia V. , Kariney Elidig R.
Published: October 2010

The transformation of 1-hydroxy-5-methoxtetralin into 4-hydroxy-8-methoxy-1-tetralone was accomplished in three steps (benzoylation, oxidation and alkaline hydrolysis). Treatment of the corresponding ketotosylate with sodium iodide and zinc dust in dimethoxyethane yielded the 8-methoxy-1-tetralone in 22% yield. The ketotosylate also underwent detosylation with sodium cyanoborohydride but afforded tetraol in 45% yield which on oxidation was converted into the required tetralone in 87% yield.
Noise and Quality of Life
Authors: Seidman Michael D. , Standring Robert T.
Published: October 2010

Noise is defined as an unwanted sound or a combination of sounds that has adverse effects on health. These effects can manifest in the form of physiologic damage or psychological harm through a variety of mechanisms. Chronic noise exposure can cause permanent threshold shifts and loss of hearing in specific frequency ranges. Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is thought to be one of the major causes of preventable hearing loss. Approximately 10 million adults and 5.2 million children in the US are already suffering from irreversible noise induced hearing impairment and thirty million more are exposed to dangerous levels of noise each day. The mechanisms of NIHL have yet to be fully identified, but many studies have enhanced our understanding of this process. The role of oxidative stress in NIHL has been extensively studied. There is compelling data to suggest that this damage may be mitigated through the implementation of several strategies including anti-oxidant, anti-ICAM 1 Ab, and anti JNK intervention. The psychological effects of noise are usually not well characterized and often ignored. However, their effect can be equally devastating and may include hypertension, tachycardia, increased cortisol release and increased physiologic stress. Collectively, these effects can have severe adverse consequences on daily living and globally on economic production. This article will review the physiologic and psychologic consequences of noise and its effect on quality of life.
ADAM-15 Disintegrin-Like Domain Structure and Function
Authors: Lu Dong , Scully Mike , Kakkar Vijay , Lu Xinjie
Published: October 2010

The ADAM (a disintegrin-like and metalloproteinase) proteins are a family of transmembrane cell-surface proteins with important functions in adhesion and proteolytic processing in all animals. Human ADAM-15 is the only member of the ADAM family with the integrin binding motif Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) in its disintegrin-like domain. This motif is also found in most snake venom disintegrins and other disintegrin-like proteins. This unique RGD motif within ADAM-15 serves as an integrin ligand binding site, through which it plays a pivotal role in interacting with integrin receptors, a large family of heterodimeric transmembrane glycoproteins. This manuscript will present a review of the RGD-containing disintegrin-like domain structures and the structural features responsible for their activity as antagonists of integrin function in relation to the canonical RGD template.
Seedling dynamics at elevation limits: Complex interactions beyond seed and microsite limitations
Authors: García‐Camacho Raúl , Iriondo José María , Escudero Adrián
Published: October 2010

• Premise of the study: Limited availability of seeds and microsites are important constraints for seedling emergence and survival. However, little is known about population‐level feedbacks between seed and microsite limitation and how these relationships vary in contrasting conditions. Focusing on Armeria caespitosa, a high‐mountain endemic, we asked whether seedling establishment was simultaneously limited by seed and microsite availability, whether the balance between seed and microsite limitations varied with contrasting environments, and whether seed and microsite limitations interacted with each other.

• Methods: We studied seedling emergence and survival at the edges of the elevation range of A. caespitosa in central Spain over 4 years. We used mixed linear models and structural equation modeling.

• Key results: Our results showed that A. caespitosa recruits similar numbers of new seedlings per plot in contrasting environments. Seedling emergence and survival in A. caespitosa were both limited by seed and microsite availability. Habitat suitability (the surrogate of microsite limitation) varied between populations and indirectly affected fertility (the surrogate of seed limitation).

• Conclusions: Seedling emergence and survival are both seed and microsite limited, there are interactions between seed and microsite limitations, and both factors, which control seedling establishment, and their interconnections, vary among local populations.
Expanded Numbers of Circulating Myeloid Dendritic Cells in Patent Human Filarial Infection Reflect Lower CCR1 Expression
Authors: Semnani Roshanak Tolouei , Mahapatra Lily , Dembele Benoit , Konate Siaka , Metenou Simon , Dolo Housseini , Coulibaly Michel E. , Soumaoro Lamine , Coulibaly Siaka Y. , Sanogo Dramane , Seriba Doumbia Salif , Diallo Abdallah A. , Traoré Sekou F. , Klion Amy , Nutman Thomas B. , Mahanty Siddhartha
Published: October 2010

APC dysfunction has been postulated to mediate some of the parasite-specific T cell unresponsiveness seen in patent filarial infec-tion. We have shown that live microfilariae of Brugia malayi induce caspase-dependent apoptosis in human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) in vitro. This study addresses whether apoptosis observed in vitro extends to patent filarial infections in humans and is reflected in the number of circulating myeloid DCs (mDCs; CD11c−CD123lo) in peripheral blood of infected microfilaremic individuals. Utilizing flow cytometry to identify DC subpopulations (mDCs and plasmacytoid DCs [pDCs]) based on expression of CD11c and CD123, we found a significant increase in numbers of circulating mDCs (CD11c+CD123lo) in filaria-infected individuals compared with uninfected controls from the same filaria-endemic region of Mali. Total numbers of pDCs, monocytes, and lymphocytes did not differ between the two groups. To investigate potential causes of differences in mDC numbers between the two groups, we assessed chemokine receptor expression on mDCs. Our data indicate that filaria-infected individuals had a lower percentage of circulating CCR1+ mDCs and a higher percentage of circulating CCR5+ mDCs and pDCs. Finally, live microfilariae of B. malayi were able to downregulate cell-surface expression of CCR1 on monocyte-derived DCs and diminish their calcium flux in response to stimulation by a CCR1 ligand. These findings suggest that microfilaria are capable of altering mDC migration through downregulation of expression of some chemokine receptors and their signaling functions. These observations have major implications for regulation of immune responses to these long-lived parasites.
Sialylation of 3-Methylcholanthrene–Induced Fibrosarcoma Determines Antitumor Immune Responses during Immunoediting
Authors: Cohen Merav , Elkabets Moshe , Perlmutter Michal , Porgador Angel , Voronov Elena , Apte Ron N. , Lichtenstein Rachel G.
Published: October 2010

Sialylation of tumor cells is involved in various aspects of their malignancy (proliferation, motility, invasion, and metastasis); however, its effect on the process of immunoediting that affects tumor cell immunogenicity has not been studied. We have shown that in mice with impaired immunoediting, such as in IL-1α−/− and IFNγ−/− mice, 3-methylcholanthrene–induced fibrosarcoma cells are immunogenic and concomitantly bear low levels of surface sialylation, whereas tumor cells derived from wild type mice are nonimmunogenic and bear higher levels of surface sialylation. To study immune mechanisms whose interaction with tumor cells involves surface sialic acid residues, we used highly sialylated 3-methylcholanthrene–induced nonimmunogenic fibrosarcoma cell lines from wild type mice, which were treated with sialidase to mimic immunogenic tumor cell variants. In vivo and in vitro experiments revealed that desialylation of tumor cells reduced their growth and induced cytotoxicity by NK cells. Moreover, sialidase-treated tumor cells better activated NK cells for IFN-γ secretion. The NKG2D-activating receptor on NK cells was shown to be involved in interactions with desialylated ligands on tumor cells, the nature of which is still not known. Thus, the degree of sialylation on tumor cells, which is selected during the process of immunoediting, has possibly evolved as an important mechanism of tumor cells with low intrinsic immunogenicity or select for tumor cells that can evade the immune system or subvert its function. When immunoediting is impaired, such as in IFN-γ−/− and IL-1α−/− mice, the overt tumor consists of desialylayed tumor cells that interact better with immunosurveillance cells.
Influenza A Infection Enhances Cross-Priming of CD8+ T Cells to Cell-Associated Antigens in a TLR7- and Type I IFN-Dependent Fashion
Authors: Wei Joe , Waithman Jason , Lata Roleen , Mifsud Nicole A. , Cebon Jonathan , Kay Thomas , Smyth Mark J. , Sadler Anthony J. , Chen Weisan
Published: October 2010

The initiation of antitumor immunity relies on dendritic cells (DCs) to cross-present cell-associated tumor Ag to CD8+ T cells (TCD8+) due to a lack of costimulatory molecules on tumor cells. Innate danger signals have been demonstrated to enhance cross-priming of TCD8+ to soluble as well as virally encoded Ags; however, their effect on enhancing TCD8+ cross-priming to cell genome-encoded Ags remains unknown. Furthermore, influenza A virus (IAV) has not been shown to enhance antitumor immunity. Using influenza-infected allogeneic cell lines, we show in this study that TCD8+ responses to cell-associated Ags can be dramatically enhanced due to enhanced TCD8+ expansion. This enhanced cross-priming in part involves TLR7- but not TLR3-mediated sensing of IAV and is entirely dependent on MyD88 and IFN signaling pathways. We also showed that the inflammasome-induced IL-1 and IFN-γ did not play a role in enhancing cross-priming in our system. We further demonstrated in our ex vivo system that CD8+ DCs are the only APCs able to prime TCR-transgenic TCD8+. Importantly, plasmacytoid DCs and CD8− DCs were both able to enhance such priming when provided in coculture. These observations suggest that IAV infection of tumor cells may facilitate improved cross-presentation of tumor Ags and may be used to augment clinical vaccine efficacy.
The Role of Ultrafiltration in Patients with Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Kamath Sandeep A.
Published: October 2010

Congestion, due in large part to hypervolemia, is the primary driver of heart failure (HF) admissions. Relief of congestion has been traditionally achieved through the use of loop diuretics, but there is increasing concern that these agents, particularly at high doses, may be deleterious in the inpatient setting. In addition, patients with HF and the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) have diminished response to loop diuretics, making these agents less effective at relieving congestion. Ultrafiltration, a mechanical volume removal strategy, has demonstrated promise in achieving safe and effective volume removal in patients with cardiorenal syndrome and diuretic refractoriness. This paper outlines the rationale for ultrafiltration in CRS and the available evidence regarding its use in patients with HF. At present, the utility of ultrafiltration is restricted to selected populations, but a greater understanding of how this technology impacts HF and CRS may expand its use.
Expansions for eigenfunction and eigenvalues of large-$n$ Toeplitz matrices
Authors: Kadanoff Leo P.
Published: October 2010

This paper constructs methods for finding convergent expansions for eigenvectors and eigenvalues of large-$n$ Toeplitz matrices based on a situation in which the analogous infinite-$n$ matrix would be singular. It builds upon work done by Dai, Geary, and Kadanoff [H Dai et al., J. Stat. Mech. P05012 (2009)] on exact eigenfunctions for Toeplitz operators which are infinite-dimension Toeplitz matrices. One expansion for the finite-$n$ case is derived from the operator eigenvalue equations obtained by continuing the finite-$n$ Toeplitz matrix to plus infinity. A second expansion is obtained by continuing the finite-$n$ matrix to minus infinity. The two expansions work together to give an apparently convergent expansion for the finite-$n$ eigenvalues and eigenvectors, based upon a solvability condition for determining eigenvalues. The expansions involve an expansion parameter expressed as an inverse power of $n$. A variational principle is developed, which gives an approximate expression for determining eigenvalues. The lowest order asymptotics for eigenvalues and eigenvectors agree with the earlier work [H Dai et al., J. Stat. Mech. P05012 (2009)]. The eigenvalues have a $(\ln n)/n$ term as their leading finite-$n$ correction in the central region of the spectrum. The $1/n$ correction in this region is obtained here for the first time.Received: 19 October 2009; Accepted: 29 September 2010; Edited by: A. G. Green; Reviewed by: T. Ehrhardt, Math. Dept., Univ. California, Santa Cruz, USA; DOI: 10.4279/PIP.020003
Molecular Basis of Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Björklund Peyman , Starker Lee F , Fonseca Annabelle L , Carling Tobias
Published: October 2010

During the past decade and a half, studies of genetic predisposition, parathyroid tumorigenesis, and molecular genetics of familial hyperparathyroid disorders have started to unveil the molecular basis of pHPT. Primary HPT is found in several distinct disorders with autosomal dominant inheritance such as in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), MEN2A, the HPT-jaw tumor syndrome (HPT-JT), familial isolated hyperparathyroidism (FIHPT), autosomal dominant mild hyperparathyroidism (ADMH), and neonatal severe HPT (NSHPT).
Pseudopheochromocytoma following Adrenal Hemorrhage
Authors: Rees Geraint J , Davies J Stephen , Scott-Coombes David M
Published: October 2010

Pseudopheochromocytoma usually presents with the signs and symptoms suggestive of pheochromocytoma, yet investigations fail to show any evidence of the tumor. This case reports a man who presented with severe abdominal pain and hypertension without previous symptoms of anxiety, tremor or palpitations at the time of presentation. Initial 24 hours urinary metanephrines were raised which suggested a diagnosis of hemorrhage into a pheochromocytoma. Clinicians need to be aware of this scenario if unnecessary surgery is to be avoided.
Clomiphene Citrate or Letrozole for Ovulation Induction in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Puri Randhir , Badawy Ahmed , Aal Ibrahim Abdel , Abulatta Mohamed
Published: October 2010

Objective

To compare the effects of letrozole (5 mg) and clomiphene citrate (100 mg) for ovulation induction in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Design

Prospective randomized trial.

Setting

University teaching hospital and private practice setting.

Patients

The study comprised a total of 438 infertile women (1063 cycles) with PCOS.

Intervention

Patients were randomized to treatment with 5 mg of letrozole daily (218 patients, 545 cycles) or 100 mg of clomiphene citrate daily (220 patients, 518 cycles) for 5 days starting on day 3 of menses. Timed intercourse was advised 24 to 36 hours after hCG injection.

Main Outcome Measure

Number of follicles, serum estradiol, serum progesterone, endometrial thickness, and pregnancy and miscarriage rates.

Results

The mean age, parity, and duration of infertility in both groups were similar. The total number of follicles was statistically significantly greater in the clomiphene citrate group (6.8 _ 0.3 vs 4.4 _ 0.4). Endometrial thickness at the time of hCG administration was statistically significantly greater in the CC group (9.2 _ 0.7 mm vs 8.1 _ 0.2 mm). The duration to reach a dominant follicle was statistically significantly longer in the letrozole group (12.1_1.3 vs 8.8_2.9 days). Ovulation occurred in 365 out of 540 cycles (67.5%) in letrozole group and 371 out of 523 cycles (70.9%) without a statistically significant difference. Levels of serum estradiol and progesterone were statistically significantly higher in the clomiphene citrate group. The pregnancy rate per cycle was 15.1% in the letrozole group and 17.9% in the clomiphene citrate group without statistically difference between the groups.

Conclusion

The results of this study did not show any advantage to the use of letrozole over clomiphene citrate as a first-line treatment for induction of ovulation in women with PCOS (Fertil Steril_2009;92:849-52. _2009 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine).
Histopathology of Nasal Masses
Authors: Dua Kapil , Chopra Neha , Mittal Vikrant , Chopra Hemant
Published: October 2010

Objective

Comparison of clinical and histopathological diagnosis of nasal masses.

Material and methods

A prospective randomized study conducted over a three years period on 100 patients of nasal mass selected from the inpatient department of Otorhinolaryngology, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana.

Results

A variety of pathological condition (ranging from benign lesions to malignant tumors) can present as nasal mass. The results show that the final diagnosis can be established only on histopathology.

Conclusion

It is concluded that for proper evaluation of a nasal mass, clinical and histopathological evaluation should be done conjointly in all the patients. Histopathology always gives a confirmatory diagnosis. Although rare, unexpected clinically relevant findings may be identified during routine histologic examination of nasal mass specimens.
Nasal Mucociliary Clearance in Allergic Rhinitis in Children
Authors: Ranga Rupender K , Yadav Jyoti , Singh Jagat
Published: October 2010

Allergic rhinitis in children is not an uncommon disease in India. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of allergic rhinitis on nasal mucociliary clearance. The nasal mucociliary clearance time (NMC) was studied using Andersen's saccharin method in fifty controls and fifty age and sex matched patients of allergic rhinitis. The nasal mucociliary clearance time in healthy controls was found to be 5.11 ± 1.51 minutes. A significant impairment (p < 0.01) in nasal mucociliary clearance time of 12.46 ± 3.74 minutes was observed in children suffering with allergic rhinitis, signifying that allergic rhinitis may predispose to sinusitis and pulmonary diseases.
Skull Base Chondrosarcoma: Is there a Role of Endoscopic Excision?
Authors: Kalsotra Gopika , Gupta Ashok K
Published: October 2010

Skull base chondrosarcomas are rare and account for approximately 0.15% of all intracranial tumors. Management of these tumors is challenging because of their potential to recur, and their proximity to vital structures such as major vessels and cranial nerves. We describe five patients with chondrosarcoma of the skull base who were managed at our institute between January 2002 and December 2009.
Fungal Cerebral Embolic Infarction by Rhino-Orbitocranial Aspergillosis
Authors: Arora Vipin , Dash Anil
Published: October 2010

Aspergillosis of paranasal sinuses is a rare infection with invasion of surrounding soft tissues, orbit and anterior cranial base. Eighteen years old immunocompetent man presented with gross facial swelling, proptosis and unilateral blindness. Histopathology was reported as invasive aspergillosis. The patient was given systemic antifungal therapy in the form of liposomal amphotericin B. He died of cerebral infarction by fungal embolism. Aspergillus fumigatus was the causative organism.
Neurofibroma of Maxillary Sinus: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Dass Arjun , Singhal Surinder , Bansal Meenakshi G
Published: October 2010

Neurofibroma is a tumor of neuronal origin. Solitary neurofibroma of maxillary sinus is exceedingly rare tumor.
Inhaled Glucocorticoids in Rhinosinusitis: A Few Pharmacological Aspects, We Must Know
Authors: Thakur JS , Mohindroo NK , Sharma DR , Thakur Anamika
Published: October 2010

Inhaled glucocorticoids are very effective for the management of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Various glucocorticoids are available for inhalation therapy with varying affinity for the receptors. Inhaled glucocorticoids have very low incidence of systemic side effects at the usual therapeutic doses. In this review we have discussed the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and adverse effects profile of the commonly available inhaled glucocorticoids.
Nasal Saline Irrigation for Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Gupta Vipan , Singh Sunder
Published: October 2010

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a very common disorder in ENT practice. There are many modalities available for the treatment and control of symptoms of allergic rhinosinusitis, varying from antihistamines, corticosteroids, mast cell stabilizers in oral and topical formulations.

Objective

The present study was planned to see the influence of nasal saline irrigation on symptomatology of chronic rhinosinusitis.

Design

Qualitative study using a questionnaire.

Methods

Nasal saline irrigation (NSI) was advised to 53 patients twice a day along with anti-allergic treatment. The control group consists of 47 allergic patients who received only anti-allergic treatment.

Results

The symptom score significantly (p < 0.001) improved in the group 1 patients using nasal saline irrigation along with anti-allergic treatment.

Conclusion

the results of the study suggest that concomitant use of NSI with anti-allergic treatment gives much more satisfactory results than with only anti-allergic treatment in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.
Bilateral Antrochoanal Polyp with Diabetes: A Rare Presentation of Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Gupta Monica , Gupta Manish
Published: October 2010

Bilateral antrochoanal (AC) polyps have been rarely reported in english literature. Here we report the first case of an adolescent male with bilateral AC polyps, cystic fibrosis and diabetes. The case was managed successfully by functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). The patient has been under follow-up for the last six months with no signs of recurrence.
Paranasal Sinuses Fungal Balls in Children
Authors: Agarwal Sunita
Published: October 2010

Objective

Rare cases of fungal balls of paranasal sinuses in children. No case has been reported in young children so far. However, allergic aspergillosis has been reported in young children.

Method

A case report of 2 cases of fungal balls of paranasal sinuses in children and review of the current literature concerning fungal balls of paranasal sinuses in children are presented.

Result

2 cases of fungal balls in paranasal sinuses were diagnosed in children of 9 and 10 years respectively. Both of them presented with nasal obstruction and eye signs provisional diagnosis was based on CT scan findings. FESS was done and fungal balls were subjected to histopathological examination to rule out invasive fungal sinusitis, fungal staining and culture were done which confirmed the diagnosis of Aspergillosis.

Conclusion

To our knowledge this is the first case report of fungal balls in PNS in children in otolaryngology literature. Both the patients were males with age of 9 and 10 years respectively.
A Novel Approach to Hemangiopericytoma of the Sinonasal Cavity
Authors: Shankar Amit
Published: October 2010

Hemangiopericytomas of the sinonasal cavity are relatively rare tumors. Most of them are essentially benign though malignant potential and metastasis to distant sites has also been reported. Treatment options usually involve external approaches. We hereby discuss the combined endoscopic and transoral approach to these tumors.
Post-disaster assessment of landslides in southern Taiwan after 2009 Typhoon Morakot using remote sensing and spatial analysis
Authors: Tsai F. , Hwang J.-H. , Chen L.-C. , Lin T.-H.
Published: October 2010

Abstract. On 8 August 2009, the extreme rainfall of Typhoon Morakot triggered enormous landslides in mountainous regions of southern Taiwan, causing catastrophic infrastructure and property damages and human casualties. A comprehensive evaluation of the landslides is essential for the post-disaster reconstruction and should be helpful for future hazard mitigation. This paper presents a systematic approach to utilize multi-temporal satellite images and other geo-spatial data for the post-disaster assessment of landslides on a regional scale. Rigorous orthorectification and radiometric correction procedures were applied to the satellite images. Landslides were identified with NDVI filtering, change detection analysis and interactive post-analysis editing to produce an accurate landslide map. Spatial analysis was performed to obtain statistical characteristics of the identified landslides and their relationship with topographical factors. A total of 9333 landslides (22 590 ha) was detected from change detection analysis of satellite images. Most of the detected landslides are smaller than 10 ha. Less than 5% of them are larger than 10 ha but together they constitute more than 45% of the total landslide area. Spatial analysis of the detected landslides indicates that most of them have average elevations between 500 m to 2000 m and with average slope gradients between 20° and 40°. In addition, a particularly devastating landslide whose debris flow destroyed a riverside village was examined in depth for detailed investigation. The volume of this slide is estimated to be more than 2.6 million m3 with an average depth of 40 m.
Culture of HIV in Monocytes and Macrophages
Authors: Crowe Suzanne , Maslin Clare , Ellery Philip , Kedzierska Katherine
Published: October 2010

Monocytes and macrophages constitute important cellular targets for macrophage‐tropic (M‐tropic) strains of HIV‐1 and are believed to play a major role in the pathogenesis of AIDS. This updated unit provides procedures for culturing HIV in these target cells under suspension and adherent cell culture conditions. The unit also provides methods for expanding M‐tropic primary isolates of HIV and determining the 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) of HIV stocks. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 70:12.4.1‐12.4.13. © 2005 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.