bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted Inhibition of Calpain Reduces Myocardial Hypertrophy and Fibrosis in Mouse Models of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Li Ying , Ma Jian , Zhu Huaqing , Singh Manpreet , Hill David , Greer Peter A. , Arnold J. Malcolm , Abel E. Dale , Peng Tianqing
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVE

Recently we have shown that calpain-1 activation contributes to cardiomyocyte apoptosis induced by hyperglycemia. This study was undertaken to investigate whether targeted disruption of calpain would reduce myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in mouse models of type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Diabetes in mice was induced by injection of streptozotocin (STZ), and OVE26 mice were also used as a type 1 diabetic model. The function of calpain was genetically manipulated by cardiomyocyte-specific knockout Capn4 in mice and the use of calpastatin transgenic mice. Myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis were investigated 2 and 5 months after STZ injection or in OVE26 diabetic mice at the age of 5 months. Cultured isolated adult mouse cardiac fibroblast cells were also investigated under high glucose conditions.

RESULTS

Calpain activity, cardiomyocyte cross-sectional areas, and myocardial collagen deposition were significantly increased in both STZ-induced and OVE26 diabetic hearts, and these were accompanied by elevated expression of hypertrophic and fibrotic collagen genes. Deficiency of Capn4 or overexpression of calpastatin reduced myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in both diabetic models, leading to the improvement of myocardial function. These effects were associated with a normalization of the nuclear factor of activated T-cell nuclear factor-κB and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities in diabetic hearts. In cultured cardiac fibroblasts, high glucose–induced proliferation and MMP activities were prevented by calpain inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

Myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis in diabetic mice are attenuated by reduction of calpain function. Thus targeted inhibition of calpain represents a potential novel therapeutic strategy for reversing diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Insulin Resistance Is Associated With a Poor Response to Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Calleja Ana I. , García-Bermejo Pablo , Cortijo Elisa , Bustamante Rosa , Rojo Martínez Esther , González Sarmiento Enrique , Fernández-Herranz Rosa , Arenillas Juan F.
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance (IR) may not only increase stroke risk, but could also contribute to aggravate stroke prognosis. Mainly through a derangement in endogenous fibrinolysis, IR could affect the response to intravenous thrombolysis, currently the only therapy proved to be efficacious for acute ischemic stroke. We hypothesized that high IR is associated with more persistent arterial occlusions and poorer long-term outcome after stroke thrombolysis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a prospective, observational, longitudinal study in consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients presenting with middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion who received intravenous thrombolysis. Patients with acute hyperglycemia (≥155 mg/dL) receiving insulin were excluded. IR was determined during admission by the homeostatic model assessment index (HOMA-IR). Poor long-term outcome, as defined by a day 90 modified Rankin scale score ≥3, was considered the primary outcome variable. Transcranial Duplex-assessed resistance to MCA recanalization and symptomatic hemorrhagic transformation were considered secondary end points.

RESULTS

A total of 109 thrombolysed MCA ischemic stroke patients were included (43.1% women, mean age 71 years). The HOMA-IR was higher in the group of patients with poor outcome (P = 0.02). The probability of good outcome decreased gradually with increasing HOMA-IR tertiles (80.6%, 1st tertile; 71.4%, 2nd tertile; and 55.3%, upper tertile). A HOMA-IR in the upper tertile was independently associated with poor outcome when compared with the lower tertile (odds ratio [OR] 8.54 [95% CI 1.67–43.55]; P = 0.01) and was associated with more persistent MCA occlusions (OR 8.2 [1.23–54.44]; P = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

High IR may be associated with more persistent arterial occlusions and worse long-term outcome after acute ischemic stroke thrombolysis.
Biodegradation and Abrasive Wear of Nano Restorative Materials
Authors: de Paula AB , Fucio SBP , Ambrosano GMB , Alonso RCB , Sardi JCO , Puppin-Rontani RM
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

Some nanofilled restorative materials may provide superior resistance to biomechanical degradation.
Changing Trends in Pattern of Presentation with Different Types of Pyrexia and Approach to be Made
Authors: Azad Khan Abul Kalam
Published: September 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdmc.v20i1.8562 J Dhaka Med Coll. 2011; 20(1) : 1-3.
Presentation of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) - Symptoms and Signs
Authors: Haque MS , Khan HILR , Mahmud RS
Published: September 2011

A cross-sectional study was carried out in the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Dhaka, during the period of July, 1992 to June, 1993, which was designed to see the presentation and physical examination findings of atrial septal defect (ASD) patients in our population. A total of 60 ASD patients were included in the study, whose diagnoses were confirmed with echocardiography. Evaluation of the patients showed that 15 % of the patients were asymptomatic and they were detected incidentally. Common symptoms were shortness of breath on exertion (SOBE), Fatigue, palpitation, chest pain and recurrent respiratory infection (RTI). Common physical findings were left parasternal lift, loud first heart sound (S1), fixed splitting of second heart sound (S2) and ejection systolic murmur in pulmonary area. It was observed that all the symptoms and signs in our population correlate well with others.Key words: Atrial septal defect; symptoms and signs; echocardiography. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdmc.v20i1.8564 J Dhaka Med Coll. 2011; 20(1) : 9-11
Changing Trends of Poisoning in Bangladesh
Authors: Howlader MAR , Hossain MZ , Morshed MG , Begum H , Sardar MH , Uddin MZ , Azad KAK
Published: September 2011

Trends have been changed in poisoning in our country. Transport related poisoning is an emerging social and public health emergency in Bangladesh. As no remarkable studies has been done in this issue before, so there is no clear cut data about mode of poisoning. In this study it showed that the mode of poisoning is usually food with mixed benzodiazepines preparations. This prospective study was done in the Medicine unit of Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, from July to December 2004. All the poisoning cases admitted in Medicine Unit of Sir Salimullah Medical College & Mitford Hospital, Dhaka are included in this study. A total 100 cases were studied. Among all the poisoning cases, ‘street poisoning’ by sedative hypnotic drugs were the highest percentage (37% of the total) and all were male. In males, 57.81% of poisoning caused by benzodiazepines (transport related poison), 20% by organophophorous, 3.12% by copper sulphate, 4.98% by benzodiazepines (attempted suicide), 4.98% by acid and 1.56% by kerosene. Among the female patients 41.66% of poisoning caused by organophophorous compounds, 19.44% by rat killer, 11.11 by coper sulphate, 8.33% by benzodiazepines, 5.55% by acid, 5.55% by savlon, 5.55% by herpic and 2.77% by phenol. Most of victims of street poisoning were businessman (67.56%) rest were normal/ domestic travelers (16.21%) and few were service holder (10.81%). Majority were from lower socio-economic classes. In analysis of the causes behind poisoning, 57% were due to familial disharmony/domestic trouble, 23% were poverty related, 15% were due to failure in affairs, 11% were due to failure in the examination, 4% were due to sexual abuse and 5% due to chronic illness and unknown cause. Key words: Poisoning; trends; street poisoning; socioeconomic condition. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdmc.v20i1.8582 J Dhaka Med Coll. 2011; 20(1) :51-56
Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma - Excision Through Lateral Rhinotomy and Sublabial Approach - A Case Report
Authors: Sinha NK , Rashid MH , Shaheen MM , Talukder DC , Fakir MAY , Hussain MZ
Published: September 2011

Juvenile angiofibroma is a rare hypervascular, locally aggressive benign tumour which is exclusively found in the nose and paranasal sinuses of male adolescents. The definitive treatment for this tumour is complete surgical excision. Different surgical approaches are used for complete excision. Most recent development is excision of the tumour using endoscopes. But in certain cases with large size and different extensions, open transfacial approaches are the choice for complete removal and for less operative bleeding, which are the main challenges for surgical excision of this tumour. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdmc.v20i1.8587 J Dhaka Med Coll. 2011; 20(1) :78-81
Molecular phylogenetics of the palm subtribe Ptychospermatinae (Arecaceae)
Authors: Zona Scott , Francisco‐Ortega Javier , Jestrow Brett , Baker William J. , Lewis Carl E.
Published: September 2011

• Premise of the study: We examined the phylogeny and intergeneric relationships among the 12 genera of the palm subtribe Ptychospermatinae. While many of these taxa are familiar, cultivated ornamental palms in warm areas of the world, the monophyly of the subtribe and its component genera required testing. We also examined the biogeographic relationships of this lineage, which has a significant radiation east of Wallace's Line.

• Methods: Phylogenetic analyses were based on maximum parsimony and Bayesian analyses of nucleotide sequences of two low‐copy nuclear genes: intron 4 of phosphoribulokinase and intron 23 of RNA polymerase II. Biogeographical reconstructions were explored using S‐DIVA.

• Key results: The two‐gene, combined analysis yielded a monophyletic subtribe with six major clades. The biogeographical analysis suggests that the subtribe originated in New Guinea.

• Conclusions: The phylogenetic hypotheses support the monophyly of the subtribe. The genera Drymophloeus, Ponapea, and Veitchia, as presently circumscribed, are not monophyletic. The resurrection and expanded circumscription of the genus Ponapea are supported. A newly discovered species of Adonidia is confirmed as sister species to Adonidia merrillii. Our phylogenetic hypothesis suggests that the Ptychospermatinae diverged into six major clades with repeated radiations into Australia and the western Pacific. The presence of Adonidia to the west of Wallace's Line is likely to be the result of long‐distance dispersal. The following new combinations are made to restore monophyly to Veitchia and Ponapea: Veitchia pachyclada, V. subisticha, V. lepidota, and Ponapea hentyi.
Locating Internet Instability under Simultaneous Events
Authors: Liu Hong Jun , Hu Xiao Feng , Zhao Dan , Lu Xi Cheng
Published: September 2011

Locating internet instability is very important to diagnose internet problems. The existing methods are under the assumption that instability is triggered by only one event, and these methods are not applicable for the scenario of simultaneous events. This paper presents the first study on characterizing the simultaneous events, finding out where the multiple events happened could be visible and how many events are simultaneously happened. Furthermore, a novel scheme is proposed to accurately pinpoint the origins of instability under simultaneous events by exploring cycles, which is theoretically proved to be feasible.
A New Algorithm of Image Encryption Based on 3D Arnold Cat
Authors: Pan Tian Gong , Li Da Yong
Published: September 2011

3D Arnold cat map can be applied in image encryption, and it has more security and better effect. However, its period is fixed. The original image will be returned to itself if iterating some times. On the basis of 3D Arnold cat map, it presented an algorithm of image encryption which separates the original image to many same blocks and no period. Simulation analysis shows that the encryption algorithm has characters of strong keys, better effect and fast.
Virtual Area Routing: a Scalable Intra-Domain Routing Scheme
Authors: Zhao Dan , Wu Chun Qing , Hu Xiao Feng , Liu Hong Jun
Published: September 2011

As a distributed link state protocol, OSPF shows poor scalability when dealing with intra-domain routing in large networks. In this paper we present a new routing scheme called Virtual Area Routing (VAR) aimed to overcome the scalability problems of OSPF. The control plane is separated from data plane and is undertaken by dedicated elements in VAR. We show that VAR can simplify network configuration and management as well as avoid unnecessary route computation. Finally we conduct experiments in real topology and the result shows VAR can reduce control overhead and improve network performance.
In Situ Filling of Fe/Ni Oxide Nanowire into Carbon Nanotubes Doped with Nitrogen in CH4/H2/Air Plasma
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Ya Yu , Zheng Wei Tao , Wang Zan
Published: September 2011

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (N-CNTs) were synthesized using air as the nitrogen carrier gas and CH4 as the carbon source by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition over a thin catalyst film of Fe50Ni50. Transmission electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy measurements have indicated that the N-CNTs grew with a tip-type growth mode. When H2 was added to the CH4/air plasmas during the N-CNTs growth stage, it was found that Fe/Ni oxide nanowire was filled into the nanotube. However, without adding H2 in the CH4/air mixture plasma, only metal oxide nanoparticle was found on the tip of the N-CNT.
Suspected Spontaneous Reports of Birth Defects in the UK Associated with the Use of Carbimazole and Propylthiouracil in Pregnancy
Authors: Bowman Pamela , Vaidya Bijay
Published: September 2011

The concept of a carbimazole embryopathy underlies current Endocrine Society advice to avoid this drug in early pregnancy, favouring propylthiouracil as an alternative for the treatment of maternal hyperthyroidism. We aimed to establish whether suspected spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions in the UK via the Yellow Card Scheme supports a carbimazole embryopathy and the lack of association between propylthiouracil and congenital anomalies. All birth defects related to maternal treatment with carbimazole or propylthiouracil reported over a 47-year period via the Yellow Card Scheme were analysed. 57 cases with 97 anomalies were reported following in utero exposure to carbimazole. These anomalies included aplasia cutis, choanal atresia, tracheo-oesophageal fistula, and patent vitellointestinal duct, which have previously been reported in association with carbimazole/methimazole exposure in utero. Only 6 cases with 11 anomalies were reported for propylthiouracil, all within the last 15 years. Therefore, these findings may support a carbimazole embryopathy. There are few birth defects associated with propylthiouracil, but this should be interpreted in the context of higher historical prescription rates for carbimazole.
GIS compilations of depth to overpressure, permafrost distribution, geothermal gradient, and regional geology, Beaufort-Mackenzie Basin, northern Canada
Authors: Issler D R , Hu K , Lane L
S , Dietrich J R
Published: September 2011

Petroleum exploration well data on primary overpressure, permafrost distribution and thickness, and geothermal gradient were tabulated, quality-checked, contoured and placed on a base map of the regional bedrock geology and structure. Accompanying notes document
the methodology and criteria for data quality ranking and give summary interpretations of the regional map patterns. Overpressure is largely confined to the northern delta and offshore areas and is the result of rapid deposition and deformation of the successive deltaic complexes comprising the
basin. The depth to the top of overpressure varies by over 3 km. The first-order distribution of permafrost appears to be consistent with surface geological processes although basin thermal structure may have an important role. Typical sedimentary basin geothermal gradients (25-30°C/km)
characterize much of the basin. Basin-margin areas show more variation, possibly related to basin architecture and/or data quality. The geological base map is updated from the regional map of Lane and Dietrich (1996).
Radical Post‐Modernism and Content: Charles Jencks and Rem Koolhaas Debate the Issue
Authors: Jencks Charles , Koolhaas Rem
Published: September 2011

The following debate took place on 28 December 2009 between Charles Jencks and Rem Koolhaas, and was transcribed and edited by Eva Branscome. Jencks and Koolhaas have exchanged ideas since the late 1960s. Jencks was the one to insist that Koolhaas come to the 1980 Venice Biennale, originally entitled ‘Post‐Modernism’. (Paolo Portoghesi invited Jencks to collaborate with him on this first Biennale before it expanded into historicism.) In January 2002, Jencks was also a judge of the competition for the CCTV Building, the headquarters for China Central Television in Beijing, discussed below. Jencks and Koolhaas continue to thrive on their discussions and disagreements. Although they have very different commitments to the issue of ‘content’, their varying positions help to clarify what is meant here by ‘radical’. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contextual Counterpoint
Authors: Jencks Charles
Published: September 2011

In recent decades, conservationists and planners have co‐opted contextualism, reducing it to a tool for enforcing urban conformity. Here Charles Jencks reclaims contextualism as a dynamic design strategy. He identifies four different contextual treatments that as well as ensuring continuity are potentially transformative. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Virtual Corpses, Figural Sections and Resonant Fields
Authors: Griffiths Sean
Published: September 2011

The ‘figural section’ is one of the most potent but under used forms of architectural communication. It enables slices, extrusions, fragments and surfaces of buildings to become the media of the non‐expressive and deadpan. Here Sean Griffiths of FAT looks at Venturi Scott Brown's influence in the development of the figural section and how it has evolved into a key trope in his practice's own work. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Not So Radical: An American Perspective
Authors: Merkel Jayne
Published: September 2011

Jayne Merkel relishes the opportunity to talk about architecture in the light of communication, context, wider culture, ‘the ordinary’, new technology and aesthetic affect ‐ all topics that are back on the agenda with this issue on Radical Post‐Modernism. However, she provides a view from Manhattan that calls into question the possible re‐emergence of a ‘Radical Post‐Modern’ movement in North America, although some members of the American architectural establishment continue to practice PoMo even if they do not preach it. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Currarino syndrome with pelvic neuroendocrine tumor diagnosed by post‐mortem genetic analysis of tissue specimens
Authors: Ciotti Paola , Mandich Paola , Bellone Emilia , Ceppa Paola , Bovio Marta , Ameri Pietro , Torre Giancarlo , Fiocca Roberto , Murialdo Giovanni
Published: September 2011

Currarino syndrome (CS) is an autosomal dominant disorder of embryonic development characterized by the triad of anorectal abnormalities, partial sacral agenesis, and presacral mass. Mutations of the HLXB9 gene have been identified in most CS cases, but a precise genotype–phenotype correlation has not been described so far. We report the clinical case of a 44‐year‐old Caucasian woman with malignant neuroendocrine transformation of a pre‐sacrococcygeal mass combined with bicornuate uterus, dermoid cyst of the ovaries, and chronic constipation. After the patient died, a sacrococcygeal malformation and anterior meningocele were diagnosed in her 22‐year‐old son. CS diagnosis was then retrospectively confirmed by molecular analysis of normal and pathological tissue specimens of the mother, with identification of a HLXB9 mutation (c.727C>T; p.R243W). CS should be considered, and genetic counseling recommended, to all patients with presacral masses. Since malignant neuroendocrine transformation of presacral mass in CS is a possible complication, even thought rare, close follow up in these patients is advisable. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Various scenarios of metal‐insulator transition in strongly correlated materials
Authors: Kuneš J. , Anisimov V.I.
Published: September 2011

We review our investigations of electronic properties of strongly correlated materials using the combination of first principles electronic band structures and the dynamical mean‐field theory, so called LDA+DMFT method. Our investigations focus on two phenomena, the spin state transitions and their relationship to the metal‐insulator transition, and the effect of hybridization between correlated and ligand orbitals in charge‐transfer type materials. The pressure driven spin transitions are studied for a group of materials containing MnO, FeO and Fe2O3. To investigate the hybridization effects we focus on NiO and NiS(Se)2. We identify various mechanisms of the metal‐insulator transition, which can take place in multi‐band systems, in addition to the band‐width control known from the single band Hubbard model.
The N‐terminal replacement of an olfactory receptor for the development of a Yeast‐based biomimetic odor sensor
Authors: Fukutani Yosuke , Nakamura Tomoko , Yorozu Maiko , Ishii Jun , Kondo Akihiko , Yohda Masafumi
Published: September 2011

For the development of a biomimetic odor‐sensing system, we investigated the effects of replacing the N‐terminus of an olfactory receptor (OR) on its functional expression in the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Using the mouse olfactory receptor OR226 (mOR226), three types of chimeric ORs were constructed by replacing N‐terminal regions of mOR226 with the corresponding regions of the rat I7 receptor, which is known to be functionally expressed in yeast. The replacement of the N‐terminal region of mOR226 dramatically affected the expression and localization of the receptor and improved the sensing ability of the yeast cells for the odorant. Furthermore, the replacement of the endogenous yeast G‐protein α subunit (Gpa1) by the OR‐specific Golf drastically elevated the odorant‐sensing ability of the yeast cells and caused the cells to display a dose‐dependent responsiveness to the odorant. Because of the suitability of yeast cells for screening large‐scale libraries, the strategy presented here would be useful for the establishment of advanced biomimetic odor‐sensing systems. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012;109: 205–212. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AIM and ELF Analyses of Halogen Bonding in NCS:BrCl Complexes
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Sun Jie , Zhang Xueying , Zeng Yanli , Zheng Shijun , Meng Lingpeng
Published: September 2011

The nature of halogen bonding in five complexes formed between the thiocyanate (NCS) radical and a BrCl molecule was analyzed by quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) and electron‐localization function (ELF) in this paper. The calculated results show that the geometry of the halogen atom bonded at the N‐atom is stable than those bonded at S‐ or C‐atom. The molecular electrostatic potentials determine the geometries and stabilities of the complexes. The valence basin of the S‐ or N‐atom in the electron‐donating NCS radical is compressed and its population decreases during the process of formation of the halogen‐bonded complexes.
Experimental determination of laws of color harmony. Part 6: Numerical index system of color harmony
Authors: Nemcsics Antal
Published: September 2011

The numerical index system of color harmony is intended to mark a great number of color pairs, optimally any number of existing color pairs, by a number between 0 and 100. This number expresses the extent to which a color pair is being felt harmonious by the average of people and the level of harmony content it possesses. The experiments described in this article have determined the basic data necessary to create this system. The series of the experiments have been done in two stages. The first stage, in which 24 test objects were presented to the experimental subjects, was carried out twice first in 1988–1990 and again in 2004–2006. Every test set was composed of eight compositions. The number of scores, given to each of the compositions, determined the harmony content of the color pair groups, whose members are formed from the saturated colors of different hues and from the members of the grey scale. In the second stage of the experiment, these data served as references for the experimental subjects. In the second stage, there were 192 tests. In these tests, there were different numbers of compositions each formed of different color pairs. One of the members of these color pairs was the member of the saturated color of the first experiment. The second member was always of different saturation and lightness for each of the compositions, purposefully chosen to match the saturated colors. Based on the experimental scores, we obtained a color harmony surface linked to the intersections with the coordinates in the Coloroid system. The color harmony surfaces and the distances between the related intersections indicate the harmony content of the color pair. The numerical values of these distances are called the color harmony index number of the color pair. These data make the creation of a color harmony indexing system possible, expressing the color harmony content of all possible color pairs, in the color space. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2012
A new method for high speed, sensitive detection of minimal residual disease
Authors: Liu Xiaohe , Hsieh H. Ben , Campana Dario , Bruce Richard H.
Published: September 2011

Investigations of rare cell types in peripheral blood samples, such as tumor, fetal, and endothelial cells, represent an emerging field with several potentially valuable medical applications. Peripheral blood is a particularly attractive body fluid for the detection of rare cells as its collection is minimally invasive and can be repeated throughout the course of the disease. Because the number of rare cells in mononuclear cells can be very low (1 in 10 million), a large number of cells must be quickly screened, which places demanding requirements on the screening technology. While enrichment technology has shown promise in managing metastatic disease, enrichment can cause distortions of cell morphology that limit pathological identification, and the enrichment targeting adds additional constraints that can affect sensitivity. Here, we describe a new approach for detecting rare leukemia cells that does not require prior enrichment. We have developed an immunocytochemical assay for identification of leukemia cells spiked in peripheral blood samples, and a high‐speed scanning instrument with high numerical aperture and wide field of view to efficiently locate these cells in large sample sizes. A multiplex immunoassay with four biomarkers was used to uniquely identify the rare cells from leukocytes and labeling artifacts. The cytometer preserves the cell morphology and accurately locates labeled rare cells for subsequent high resolution imaging. The sensitivity and specificity of the approach show promise for detection of a low number of leukemia cells in blood (1 in 10 million nucleated cells). The method enables rapid location of rare circulating cells (25 M cells/min), no specific enrichment step, and excellent imaging of cellular morphology with multiple immunofluorescent markers. The cell imaging is comparable to other imaging approaches such as laser scan cytometry and image flow cytometry, but the cell analysis rate is many orders of magnitude faster making this approach practical for detection of rare cells. © 2011 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Scoring systems in mantle cell lymphoma: A critical point of view
Authors: Juncà Jordi , Ruiz‐Xivillé Neus , Granada Isabel , Rodríguez‐Hernández Inés , Navarro Josep‐Tomàs , Luis Mate José , Millá Fuensanta
Published: September 2011

A proposal for a scoring system in the diagnosis of chronic lymphoproliferative diseases other than CLL has been recently published in Cytometry Part B. The authors apply this score for deciding whether or not FISH evaluation for the detection of IGH/CCND1 rearrangements must be performed to exclude Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL). In their validation series, no MCL scored <3. We have applied their system to our cases of MCL and also to a small series of Marginal Zone lymphomas. In our hands, the scoring system as has been published does not discriminate adequately between both entities. We propose using the negativity of a marker, CD11c, instead of the platelet count to improve the results. However, we believe that given the clinical and prognostic implications of the diagnosis of MCL, scoring systems should be greatly ameliorated prior to their generalized use. © 2011 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Energy‐aware geographic routing in wireless sensor networks with anchor nodes
Authors: Huang Haojun , Hu Guangmin , Yu Fucai
Published: September 2011

Energy efficiency has become an important design consideration in geographic routing protocols for wireless sensor networks because the sensor nodes are energy constrained and battery recharging is usually not feasible. However, numerous existing energy‐aware geographic routing protocols are energy‐inefficient when the detouring mode is involved in the routing. Furthermore, most of them rarely or at most implicitly take into account the energy efficiency in the advance. In this paper, we present a novel energy‐aware geographic routing (EAGR) protocol that attempts to minimize the energy consumption for end‐to‐end data delivery. EAGR adaptively uses an existing geographic routing protocol to find an anchor list based on the projection distance of nodes for guiding packet forwarding. Each node holding the message utilizes geographic information, the characteristics of energy consumption, and the metric of advanced energy cost to make forwarding decisions, and dynamically adjusts its transmission power to just reach the selected node. Simulation results demonstrate that our scheme exhibits higher energy efficiency, smaller end‐to‐end delay, and better packet delivery ratio compared to other geographic routing protocols. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modular Construction of Fluorescent Lipophosphoramidates by Click Chemistry
Authors: Berchel Mathieu , Haelters Jean‐Pierre , Couthon‐Gourvès Hélène , Deschamps Laure , Midoux Patrick , Lehn Pierre , Jaffrès Paul‐Alain
Published: September 2011

The synthesis of fluorescent lipophosphoramidates is reported. Their modular construction allows several variations of the molecular structure including the separation of the fluorescent probe from the lipophosphoramidate moiety by a short methylene or by a tetraethylene glycol spacer. The last step of the convergent synthesis is a Huisgen click reaction, which assembles the fluorescent probe with the lipophosphoramidate part. Five fluorescent probes have been considered in this study including coumarin, NBD, fluorescein, naphthalimide and cyanine.
Fluvial response to an historic lowstand of the Great Salt Lake, Utah
Authors: Skorko Krysia , Jewell Paul W. , Nicoll Kathleen
Published: September 2011

Understanding fluvial adjustments to base level changes benefits the fields of sequence stratigraphy, geomorphology and petroleum geology. This investigation is a modern case study of the channel dynamics of Lee Creek and the Goggin Drain, two streams that are part of the Jordan River drainage into the endorheic Great Salt Lake of northern Utah, a lacustrine system that has experienced multiple, decadal‐scale base level changes. Since 1965, the lake level has fluctuated in elevation more than 6 m, transitioning from an historic lowstand [< 1279 m above sea level (a.s.l.)] to an historic highstand (>1284 m a.s.l.), and in 2009–2010 approaching an historic lowstand. This study uses detailed aerial images, fieldwork and LiDAR data to link the modern geomorphology and channel hydraulics to specific variations in sediment transport, channel form, and avulsion behavior. Although Lee Creek and the Goggin Drain are situated only a few kilometers apart and share similar shore zone gradients, substrates and vegetation patterns, and have been subjected to the same changes in lake level, their channel forms have evolved very differently. Differences in discharge patterns are likely the most influential factor causing the meandering form of Lee Creek and the braiding channel of the Goggin Drain. Despite the differences in discharge, total sediment eroded from the two streams is comparable and can be attributed to similar stream power/unit stream width in the two streams. Although Lee Creek has not recently been avulsive, three major avulsions of the Goggin Drain have taken place since 1965. Two possible styles of avulsion are interpreted: an allogenic response to changing base level, and an autogenic response dictated by channel morphology and hydraulics. Despite a wealth of available information, avulsions cannot be unequivocally attributed to one style or another. Caution should be used when attempting to link the complex process of avulsion to causal mechanisms. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Boulder deposition during major tsunami events
Authors: Costa Pedro J. M. , Andrade César , Freitas Maria C. , Oliveira Maria A. , da Silva Carlos M. , Omira Rachid , Taborda Rui , Baptista Maria A. , Dawson Alastair G.
Published: September 2011

A remarkable accumulation of marine boulders located above the present spring tide level has occurred in two coastal lowlands of the Algarve (Portugal). The size‐interval of the particles studied here is seldom reported in the literature in association with extreme events of coastal inundation, thus making this study of relevance to many other coasts worldwide. The spreads of boulders extend several hundred meters inland and well beyond the present landward limit of storm activity. The marine origin of the boulders is demonstrated by well‐developed macro‐bioerosion sculpturing and in situ skeletal remains of endolithic shallow marine bivalves. The good state preservation of the fossils within the boulders indicates that abrasion during transport and redeposition was not significant. We envisage boulder deposition as having taken place during the Lisbon tsunami of ad 1755 through the simultaneous landward entrainment of coarse particles from nearshore followed by rapid shoreward suspended‐dominated transport and non‐graded redeposition that excluded significant sorting by weight or boulder dimensions. We use numerical hydrodynamic modeling of tsunami (and storm) waves to test the observational data on boulder dimensions (density, size, distribution) on the most likely processes of sediment deposition. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of the study of boulder deposits in tsunami reconstruction. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic variation of XPA gene and risk of cancer: A systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Ding Dapeng , Zhang Ying , Yu Hailang , Guo Yunbo , Jiang Ling , He Xiaofeng , Ma Wenli , Zheng Wenling
Published: September 2011

XPA, a zinc‐finger DNA‐binding protein, play an important role in both global genome and transcription‐coupled repair pathways. XPA −4G>A polymorphism was identified in the 5′ noncoding region, located four nucleotides upstream of the ATG start codon. Previous studies have shown that this polymorphism may affect mRNA tertiary structure and stability and play a role in susceptibility to cancer. However, the results remained controversial. To derive a more precise estimation of association between this polymorphism and risk of different types of cancer, we performed a meta‐analysis based on 36 case–control or case–cohort studies, including a total of 11,700 cases and 15,033 controls. We used odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals to assess the strength of the association. Overall, no significantly elevated cancer risk was found in all genetic models when eligible studies were pooled into the meta‐analysis. In the stratified analyses, we found that individuals with A‐allele had a higher risk of lung cancer (AA versus GG: OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.09–1.43; recessive model: OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.16–1.48). When stratified by ethnicity, significantly elevated risks were observed among Asian populations (AA versus GG: OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.01–1.70; dominant model: OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.00–1.30). This meta‐analysis suggests that XPA −4G>A polymorphism is associated with increased lung cancer risk and may be a low‐penetrant risk factor in Asian ethnicity for cancer development.
Zooplankton Communities in the Shallow Lake Guiers (Senegal, West Africa)
Authors: Kâ Samba , Bouvy Marc , Sané Seyni , Ba Ngansoumana , Arfi Robert , Thiaw Omar Thiom , Pagano Marc
Published: September 2011

Seasonal variations of zooplankton communities and their interactions with phytoplankton and environmental parameters were studied over a twelve‐month period in Lake Guiers (Senegal, West Africa). Zooplankton was most abundant during the warm and rainy season corresponding to the flood event (July to October) with peaks for rotifers and cyclopoid copepods in July–August and September–October, respectively. Filamentous cyanobacteria were the dominant phytoplankton during the warm season (August to November), while diatoms were dominant during the cool season (December to April). Temperature increase and river flooding both played an important role in these successions, favoring intense development of cyanobacteria and cyclopoid copepods. Trophic interactions also seem to be an important factor in structuring of the plankton community. Overall, the plankton composition displayed a trend toward a eutrophication state. Our study confirms the existence of seasonality in zooplankton communities and the importance of using biological indicators such as phyto‐ and zooplankton to monitor water quality, in particular in tropical freshwater ecosystems. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Collagen‐agarose co‐gels as a model for collagen–matrix interaction in soft tissues subjected to indentation
Authors: Lake Spencer P. , Hald Eric S. , Barocas Victor H.
Published: September 2011

The mechanical properties of soft tissues depend on the collagen fiber network and the surrounding non‐fibrillar matrix. The mechanical role of non‐fibrillar material remains poorly understood. Our recent study (Lake and Barocas, Ann Biomed Eng 2011) introduced collagen‐agarose co‐gels as a simple experimental model system to evaluate the mechanical contribution of non‐fibrillar matrix, and evaluated co‐gel properties in uniaxial tension. In this study, we utilized similar co‐gels to examine collagen‐matrix interaction in tissues subjected to incremental stress‐relaxation indentation tests. Mechanical testing was performed using two orthogonal custom test devices, and polarized light imaging was used to quantify 3D collagen fiber kinematics under load. The addition of agarose led to concentration‐dependent changes in the time‐dependent mechanical response and magnitude/spread of collagen fiber reorganization of tissue analogs. Specifically, peak/relaxed loads increased, and relaxation rate decreased, with increasing agarose concentration. In addition, increasing agarose content led to larger magnitude changes in orientation direction and alignment strength that were more localized near the indenter. Results suggest that non‐fibrillar material significantly contributes to the behavior of co‐gels in indentation, likely by reducing permeability and resisting volume change, thereby providing insight into the properties of artificial and native tissues subjected to non‐tensile loading. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2011.
Electron Transfer in Metal‐Organic Molecules. A Time Resolved EXAFS and Optical Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Chen Jie , Chen Wei‐Kan , Rentzepis Peter M.
Published: September 2011

We have measured, by means of ultrafast x‐ray absorption and optical spectroscopy, the M‐O (M=Fe, Co) and Co‐N metal to ligand bond length change as a function of time and the formation and decay of the excited states and intermediate species, after excitation with a 267 nm femtosecond pulse. These experimental data combined with DFT calculations allowed us to determine the mechanism of electron transfer operating in the redox reaction of two metal‐ligand complexes, [M(III)(C2O4)3]3‐ and [Co(III)(NH3)6 ]3+. Based on the data we find that, even though both molecules are excited into their charge transfer band, the redox reaction of [M(III)(C2O4)3]3‐ proceeds via intermolecular electron transfer while [Co(III)(NH3)6 ]3+ electron transfer mechanism is intramolecular.
Metal Ion‐Assisted Infrared Optical Sensor for Selective Determination of Tryptophan in Urine Samples
Authors: Huang Genin Gary , Cheng Min‐Liang , Yang Jyisy
Published: September 2011

In this study, a simple infrared chemical sensor was developed for the selective detection of tryptophan in biological fluids. This sensor was capable of trapping tryptophan molecules through the formation of relatively stable metal ion complexes on the surface of the sensing element. A proline‐modified sensing phase was immobilized on the surface of the internal reflection element. With the assistance of appropriate metal ions, tryptophan molecules were selectively attracted nearby the evanescent field such that analytical signals were generated. Factors that affected the chemical equilibria in this detection system were examined including the species and concentration of metal ion, the pH of the sample solution, and the concentration of the chelating agent. Among the examined metal ions, nickel provided the best selectivity toward the detection of tryptophan as a result of its extremely high formation constant with tryptophan. Under the optimal conditions, the detected signals were related linearly (R2 > 0.99) to concentrations of tryptophan up to 600 μM. Based on three times the baseline variation of blank samples, the detection limit was ca. 5 μM. From a study of possible interfering agents—metal ions and organic species—in the sample solution, the recoveries of tryptophan were greater than 95%.
Extraction of Substance P by Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometric Analysis
Authors: Chang Yen‐Hsiang , Chen Zhi‐Meng , Peng Hsien‐Yu , Tsai Yuan‐Jen , Lin Tzer‐Bin , Chen Gin‐Den , Wang C. R. Chris , Change Sarah Y.
Published: September 2011

Functionalized iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were used as concentrating probes to extract substance P (SP) from aqueous solution before matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometric (MALDI/MS) analysis. Adsorption of SP onto the nanoparticles was mainly due to electrostatic interaction. After simple washing, the SP‐adsorbed nanoparticles were directly analyzed by MALDI/MS. With this concentration strategy, the limit of detection (LOD) of SP in 500 μL buffer solution (pH 8) was 0.1 nM. In addition, the nanoparticles could isolate SP from a solution with high contents of salts and surfactants, thus alleviating suppression effect during MALDI/MS analysis. This new method was successfully applied to the determination of SP in rat spinal cord samples. The LOD and recovery of SP in a rat spinal cord sample were 3.1 nM and 85.7%, respectively.
Diphenylmethane Oxidation Catalyzed by Mononuclear Mn(III) Complexes
Authors: Golchoubian Hamid , Ghasemi Nesa
Published: September 2011

Catalytic property of a series of manganese(III) complexes with tetradentate phenol‐ and pyridinebased ligands on the oxidation of the C‐H bond of diphenylmethane in the presence of hydrogen peroxide as an oxidant at ambient conditions were investigated. In this process, diphenylmethane was oxidized to the corresponding keton and alcohol. The catalytic selectivity of the complexes was evaluated.
Synthesis and Application of Co‐Poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐ethylene dimethacrylate) Coupled with Alizarin Yellow for Preconcentration and Determination of Lead in Water Samples by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Panahi Homayon Ahmad , Zadeh Marjaneh Samadi , Changhizia Reza , Monirib Elham
Published: September 2011

Poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐ethylene dimethacrylate) (PHEMA‐EDMA) beads were produced by free radical co‐polymerization of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA). Then, metal complexing ligand alizarin yellow was covalently attached onto PHEMA‐EDMA beads. The resulting resin has been characterized by FT‐IR and studied for the preconcentration and determination of trace Pb(II) ion from solution samples. The optimum pH value for sorption of the metal ion was 5. The sorption capacity of functionalized resin is 100 mg.g‐1. The chelating resin can be reused for 20 cycles of sorption‐desorption without any significant change in sorption capacity. A recovery of 96% was obtained for the metal ion with 0.1 M nitric acid as eluting agent. The equilibrium adsorption data of Pb(II) on modified resin were analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich models. Based on equilibrium adsorption data the Langmuir and Freundlich constants were determined 2.571 and 418.7 at pH 5 and 25 °C. The method was applied for lead ions determination from well water sample.
Synthesis and Urease Inhibition Studies of Barbituric and Thiobarbituric Acid Derived Sulphonamides
Authors: Rauf A. , Ahmed F. , Qureshi A. M. , Aziz‐ur‐Rehman  , Khan A. , Qadir M. I. , Choudhary M. I. , Chohan Z. H. , Youssoufid M. H. , Haddad T. Ben
Published: September 2011

Various novel barbituric and thiobarbituric acid derived sulphonamides were synthesized in excellent yield via three components single pot reaction; and these were screened for in vitro urease inhibition studies against jack bean urease. The compounds 1‐7 were found to exhibit a low to moderate activity whereas compounds 8‐14 showed a significant activity (88.3‐99.9% inhibition determined at 500 μM concentration). Structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis data.
Quantifying internal medicine resident clinical experience using resident‐selected primary diagnosis codes
Authors: Mattana Joseph , Kerpen Howard , Lee Clifton , Multz Alan , Pekmezaris Renee , Napolitano Barbara , Walia Rajni , Steinberg Harry
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND:

While experiential learning is a desirable goal of residency education, little is known regarding the actual clinical experience of internal medicine residents during their training.

METHODS:

We modified an electronic patient handoff tool to include a system for resident entry of a primary diagnosis for each of their patients. Using the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) system, we created two methods to select the code: 1) an organ system‐based dropdown list containing frequently used codes; and 2) a search option for the complete ICD‐9 database. The codes were then grouped using ICD‐9 categorization.

RESULTS:

A total of 7562 resident–patient diagnostic encounters were studied. A wide spectrum of clinical conditions was observed, with symptoms and ill‐defined conditions, circulatory disorders, respiratory disorders, neoplasms, genitourinary disorders, digestive disorders, diseases of the blood/blood forming organs, endocrinologic/nutritional/metabolic/immune disorders, and disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue accounting for about 86% of resident clinical experience. Symptoms and ill‐defined conditions were noted to represent a sizable portion of resident clinical experience. Within this category, the most common conditions were fever; abdominal pain; and chest pain, unspecified.

CONCLUSIONS:

Analysis of resident‐selected ICD‐9 codes might serve as a method to attempt to define resident clinical experience, and may be useful in the development of innovative experiential learning‐based residency curricula. This might also be used to assess gaps in experiential learning at the program or resident level, and may serve to identify topics that require additional teaching supplementation. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine