bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid optimization of gene dosage in E. coli using DIAL strains
Authors: Kittleson Joshua T , Cheung Sherine , Anderson JChristopher
Published: July 2011

Background

Engineers frequently vary design parameters to optimize the behaviour of a system. However, synthetic biologists lack the tools to rapidly explore a critical design parameter, gene expression level, and have no means of systematically varying the dosage of an entire genetic circuit. As a step toward overcoming this shortfall, we have developed a technology that enables the same plasmid to be maintained at different copy numbers in a set of closely related cells. This provides a rapid method for exploring gene or cassette dosage effects.

Results

We engineered two sets of strains to constitutively provide a trans-acting replication factor, either Pi of the R6K plasmid or RepA of the ColE2 plasmid, at different doses. Each DIAL (different allele) strain supports the replication of a corresponding plasmid at a constant level between 1 and 250 copies per cell. The plasmids exhibit cell-to-cell variability comparable to other popular replicons, but with improved stability. Since the origins are orthogonal, both replication factors can be incorporated into the same cell. We demonstrate the utility of these strains by rapidly assessing the optimal expression level of a model biosynthetic pathway for violecein.

Conclusions

The DIAL strains can rapidly optimize single gene expression levels, help balance expression of functionally coupled genetic elements, improve investigation of gene and circuit dosage effects, and enable faster development of metabolic pathways.
Successful tumour necrosis factor (TNF) blocking therapy suppresses oxidative stress and hypoxia-induced mitochondrial mutagenesis in inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Biniecka Monika , Kennedy Aisling , Ng Chin T , Chang Ting C , Balogh Emese , Fox Edward , Veale Douglas J , Fearon Ursula , O'Sullivan Jacintha N
Published: July 2011

Introduction

To examine the effects of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) blocking therapy on the levels of early mitochondrial genome alterations and oxidative stress.

Methods

Eighteen inflammatory arthritis patients underwent synovial tissue oxygen (tpO2) measurements and clinical assessment of disease activity (DAS28-CRP) at baseline (T0) and three months (T3) after starting biologic therapy. Synovial tissue lipid peroxidation (4-HNE), T and B cell specific markers and synovial vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were quantified by immunohistochemistry. Synovial levels of random mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations were assessed using Random Mutation Capture (RMC) assay.

Results

4-HNE levels pre/post anti TNF-α therapy were inversely correlated with in vivo tpO2 (P < 0.008; r = -0.60). Biologic therapy responders showed a significantly reduced 4-HNE expression (P < 0.05). High 4-HNE expression correlated with high DAS28-CRP (P = 0.02; r = 0.53), tender joint count for 28 joints (TJC-28) (P = 0.03; r = 0.49), swollen joint count for 28 joints (SJC-28) (P = 0.03; r = 0.50) and visual analogue scale (VAS) (P = 0.04; r = 0.48). Strong positive association was found between the number of 4-HNE positive cells and CD4+ cells (P = 0.04; r = 0.60), CD8+ cells (P = 0.001; r = 0.70), CD20+ cells (P = 0.04; r = 0.68), CD68+ cells (P = 0.04; r = 0.47) and synovial VEGF expression (P = 0.01; r = 063). In patients whose in vivo tpO2 levels improved post treatment, significant reduction in mtDNA mutations and DAS28-CRP was observed (P < 0.05). In contrast in those patients whose tpO2 levels remained the same or reduced at T3, no significant changes for mtDNA mutations and DAS28-CRP were found.

Conclusions

High levels of synovial oxidative stress and mitochondrial mutation burden are strongly associated with low in vivo oxygen tension and synovial inflammation. Furthermore these significant mitochondrial genome alterations are rescued following successful anti TNF-α treatment.
Derivation of valid contracted graphs with pentagonal links plus quaternary links or ternary links for closed mechanisms by arrays
Authors: Lu Y , Mao B , Li S , Yu J
Published: July 2011

The derivation of the valid contracted graphs (CGs) with pentagonal links P plus quaternary links Q and/or ternary links T is studied for the type synthesis of closed mechanisms by means of arrays. First, the concepts of CGs and arrays are explained, and the numbers of dots representing basic links and edges in the CGs are solved. Second, the relative criteria are determined for representing/deriving CGs and identifying isomorphic/invalid CGs by arrays. Third, some simple CGs are derived from associated linkages with P( Q, T) and are represented by arrays, and the isomorphic/invalid CGs are identified by arrays. Finally, many complex valid CGs with more P( Q, T) are represented and derived by arrays and their isomorphism are identified by arrays.
Identification of optimized constitutive model parameters at a high strain rate using electromagnetic ring expansion test results
Authors: Sedighi M , Khandaei M , Shokrollahi H
Published: July 2011

In this article, parameters of the material constitutive model have been identified at high strain rate electromagnetic ring expansion test using experimental data taken from literature for oxygen-free electronic copper (OFE Cu). The experimental data were processed using a finite-element optimization procedure in which the measured deformation has been applied to a specimen. An optimal set of material constants for JohnsonCook constitutive model have been computed by minimizing the standard deviation of differences between experimental and calculated stressstrain curves. The applicability of identified parameters has been validated successfully by using simulation of reverse Taylor impact test results. The presented method in this article was found to be an effective method for identifying the material model parameters at high strain rates.
Non-linear rolling friction of a tyre-caster system: analysis of a rugby wheelchair
Authors: Chua J J C , Fuss F K , Subic A
Published: July 2011

Tyre-caster systems such as wheelchairs consist of several components with different bearing and rolling friction, with the latter depending on the tyre pressure. The aim of this study was to determine the rolling friction of a rugby wheelchair with deflated and maximally inflated tyres. The rolling friction was determined with coast-down tests by instrumenting the wheelchair with an accelerometer. As the energy loss of coasting down comes primarily from the rolling friction and aerodynamic drag, the latter (including the lift) was determined using wind tunnel experiments. The ratio of the sum of horizontal forces (drag and inertial) to the sum of vertical forces (lift and gravitational) determined the rolling friction coefficient. The rolling friction coefficient expressed as a function of the velocity was found to be highly non-linear, consisting of an initial viscous spike at low velocities, a constant component, and a parabolic component increasing with velocity. The rolling friction coefficient of the wheelchair with deflated tyres was on average three times higher than the one with maximally inflated tyres.
Testing Game Theory in the Field: Swedish LUPI Lottery Games
Authors: Östling Robert , Tao-yi Wang Joseph , Chou Eileen Y , Camerer Colin F
Published: July 2011

Game theory is usually difficult to test in the field because predictions typically depend sensitively on features that are not controlled or observed. We conduct one such test using both laboratory and field data from the Swedish lowest unique positive integer (LUPI) game. In this game, players pick positive integers and whoever chooses the lowest unique number wins. Equilibrium predictions are derived assuming Poisson distributed population uncertainty. The field and lab data show similar patterns. Despite various deviations from equilibrium, there is a surprising degree of convergence toward equilibrium. Some deviations can be rationalized by a cognitive hierarchy model. (JEL C70, C93, D44, H27)
Names and Reputations: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: McDevitt Ryan C
Published: July 2011

This paper tests several predictions from the literature on firm reputation, and confirms a main result: poor performance leads a firm to conceal its reputation. A residential plumbing firm with a record of complaints one standard deviation above the mean is 133.2 percent more likely to change its name. In addition, firms with longer track records are less likely to change their names or exit, while firms with more firm-specific investments, such as advertising, are more likely to change their names than exit. In addition, firms in small markets value their reputations comparatively more than firms in large markets. (JEL L14, L25, L84)
Use of ultrasound by shoulder surgeons: is there an urgent need for new guidance on the required standard for competency?
Authors: Bidwai A S C , Casserly H B
Published: July 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate a number of issues involving UK shoulder surgeons' use of ultrasound. We surveyed members of the British Elbow and Shoulder Society by inviting them to complete a questionnaire. Data collected included the incidence of the use of shoulder ultrasound in clinic, indications for ultrasound, the experience and training undertaken by those performing the scan, and source of funding for equipment.
Gender, Competition, and Managerial Decisions
Authors: Price Curtis R.
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of competitive compensation between a manager and a worker in the laboratory. To this end, we impose a simple agency relationship between two groups of subjects termed managers and workers. The manager chooses a compensation scheme for the worker from either a piece rate or a tournament payment scheme and is paid based on the workers performance in the task. The results indicate that when given information about worker ability, male managers choose the tournament significantly less often for a female worker. On the other hand, when no information about worker ability is given to the manager, there is no difference in compensation choice for the worker, although male and female managers differ significantly in their own preferences for compensation scheme. We conjecture that these results are tied to the fact that there is a measurable stereotype that females are worse at the task relative to males, although further research is needed in this regard.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, Teck Ho, and Terrance Odean, special issue editors.
Why Do More Boys Than Girls Have a Reading Disability? A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Limbrick Lisa , Wheldall Kevin , Madelaine Alison
Published: July 2011

A number of explanations have been proposed in recent years to account for the observed preponderance of boys with a reading disability. The most notable explanations offered for gender differences in reading disability relate to differences in phonemic awareness, auditory processing, behaviour, neurology, variability in cognitive ability and reading motivation. The purpose of this article was to review the available evidence supporting each of these explanations. The impact of confounding variables, including sample selection, sample bias, intelligence, and socioeconomic status was also discussed. Although the different explanations have, to some degree, an impact on overall reading achievement, it does not appear that any single explanation wholly accounts for gender differences in reading ability, and that gender is not a strong or consistent predictor of reading success.
Differential Disadvantage of Anglophone Weak Readers Due to English Orthographic Complexity and Cognitive Processing Weakness
Authors: Galletly Susan A. , Knight Bruce Allen
Published: July 2011

The highly regular orthographies (spelling systems) of many nations expedite literacy development, and their children experience a rapid transition from early literacy (learning to read and write) to sophisticated literacy (reading and writing to learn). In contrast, English orthographic complexity impedes literacy development, particularly for weak readers (Galletly & Knight, in press a, b). This article proposes a model of differential disadvantage of Anglophone weak readers due to cognitive processing weakness and the high cognitive load of learning to read and write English. The disadvantage is differential, first with Anglophone weak readers disadvantaged compared to weak readers in nations with regular orthographies, and second, with subgroups of Anglophone weak readers being more disadvantaged, depending on their levels of language skills and cognitive processing efficiency. Anglophone weak readers with pre-existing language disorder experience the highest levels of differential disadvantage. Weak cognitive processing and automisation in the face of continuing high cognitive load seems a basis for them frequently showing comorbidities, with features of multiple disorder categories (Catts, Adlof, Hogan, & Ellis Weismer, 2005), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), auditory processing disorder, motor weakness, and social and behavioural impairment. The model is a useful framework for considering the instructional needs of weak readers. Areas where research is needed for building ways forward in optimising literacy development is discussed.
Person-Centred Rehabilitation Counselling: Revisiting the Legacy of Carl Rogers
Authors: Crisp Ross
Published: July 2011

This article explores the relevance of Carl Rogers' person-centred approach (PCA) to rehabilitation counselling. His major theoretical contribution concerning the primacy of the client's actualising tendency and the six ‘core conditions’ of the counsellor–client relationship deserves greater recognition in vocational rehabilitation. The most widely known and researched core conditions have focused upon the proverbial triad: congruence (genuineness), unconditional positive regard and empathy. However, all six core conditions are discussed with emphasis placed on recent refinements to Rogers' original theory and their importance to rehabilitation counselling. Evidenced-based research concerning the impact of PCA-oriented rehabilitation counselling is lacking. It is argued that the efficacy of PCA can be extrapolated from meta-analyses in other fields of psychotherapy and education.
A Hypertension Gene: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Lupton Samantha J. , Chiu Christine L. , Lind Joanne M.
Published: July 2011

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Essential hypertension is a major risk factor for the development of other cardiovascular diseases and is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors, with up to 50% of blood pressure variance currently attributed to an individual's genetic makeup. By studying genes that cause monogenic forms of hypertension and pathways relevant to blood pressure control, a number of polymorphisms have been identified that increase an individual's risk of developing high blood pressure. We report on candidate gene association studies and genome-wide association studies that have been performed to date in the field of hypertension research. It is becoming clear that for the majority of people there is no single gene polymorphism that causes hypertension, but rather a number of common genetic variants, each having a small effect. Using pharmacogenomics to personalize the treatment of hypertension holds promise for achieving and sustaining normotensive pressures quickly, while minimizing the risk of adverse reactions and unwanted side-effects. This will decrease the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction in individuals and lead to a reduced burden of disease upon society as a whole.
Meteorological Aspects of Wind Park Design
Authors: Emeis Stefan
Published: July 2011

A simple consideration - based on an analytically solvable model of the momentum balance - is presented, which calculates the reduction in wind speed at hub height in an indefinitely large wind park as function of surface roughness, atmospheric thermal stability, and the mean distance between the wind turbines in this wind park. Weakest reduction occurs for a wind park erected on a rough land surface during unstable thermal stratification (minus 2%). Highest reduction occurs for an offshore wind park over a very smooth sea surface during stable thermal conditions (minus 45%). This model can be used to find the optimum distance between wind turbines in wind parks. Likewise this model calculates the wake length of entire wind parks as function of surface roughness and thermal stability. For offshore wind parks wake lengths between 10 and 30 km are found, for onshore parks this length is much less. This additional information can be used to find the optimum distance between adjacent wind parks.
Experimental Investigation on a Latent Heat Thermal Storage Unit for Solar Cooling Application
Authors: Chidambaram L. , Ramana A. S. , Kamaraj G. , Velraj R.
Published: July 2011

Conventional cooling technologies that utilize harmful refrigerants consume more energy and cause peak loads leading to negative environmental impacts. As the world grapples with the energy and environmental crisis, there is an urgent need to develop and promote environmentally benign sustainable cooling technologies. Solar cooling is one such promising technology, given the fact that solar energy is the cheapest and most widely available renewable energy that matches the cooling load requirements. However thermal storage systems are essential to overcome the disadvantage of the intermittent nature of solar energy and variations in the cooling demand. The enhanced utilization of solar energy and other consequences of thermal storage integrated systems have gained the attention of researchers in recent years. The concept of combined sensible and latent heat storage system is successfully introduced in several applications and it has many advantages. This paper presents the performance of the solar collector system and the charging characteristics of a PCM based latent heat thermal storage unit, which is designed to provide continuous supply of heat for the operation of 1 kW vapor absorption refrigeration unit. Investigations on PCM integrated thermal storage system have revealed improvement in heat storage capacity, lower heat loss and an increased solar collector efficiency due to better thermal stratification.
Forensic Evidence Collection and DNA Identification in Acute Child Sexual Assault
Authors: Thackeray Jonathan D. , Hornor Gail , Benzinger Elizabeth A. , Scribano Philip V.
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To describe forensic evidence findings and reevaluate previous recommendations with respect to timing of evidence collection in acute child sexual assault and to identify factors associated with yield of DNA.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective review of medical and legal records of patients aged 0 to 20 years who required forensic evidence collection.

RESULTS:

Ninety-seven of 388 (25%) processed evidence-collection kits were positive and 63 (65%) of them produced identifiable DNA. There were 20 positive samples obtained from children younger than 10 years; 17 of these samples were obtained from children seen within 24 hours of the assault. Three children had positive body samples beyond 24 hours after the assault, including 1 child positive for salivary amylase in the underwear and on the thighs 54 hours after the assault. DNA was found in 11 children aged younger than 10 years, including the child seen 54 hours after the assault. Collection of evidence within 24 hours of the assault was identified as an independent predictor of DNA detection.

CONCLUSIONS:

Identifiable DNA was collected from a child's body despite cases in which: evidence collection was performed >24 hours beyond the assault; the child had a normal/nonacute anogenital examination; there was no reported history of ejaculation; and the victim had bathed and/or changed clothes before evidence collection. Failure to conduct evidence collection on prepubertal children beyond 24 hours after the assault will result in rare missed opportunities to identify forensic evidence, including identification of DNA.
Automated Dose-Rounding Recommendations for Pediatric Medications
Authors: Johnson Kevin B. , Lee Carlton K. K. , Spooner S. Andrew , Davison Coda L. , Helmke Jill S. , Weinberg Stuart T.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Although pediatric electronic prescribing systems are increasingly being used in pediatric care, many of these systems lack the clinical decision-support infrastructure needed to calculate a safe and effective rounded medication dose. This infrastructure is required to facilitate tailoring of established dosing guidance while maintaining the medication's therapeutic intent.

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this project was to establish best practices for generating an appropriate medication dose and to create an interoperable rounding knowledge base combining best practices and dose-rounding information.

METHODS:

We interviewed 19 pediatric health care and pediatric pharmacy experts and conducted a literature review. After using these data to construct initial rounding tolerances, we used a Delphi process to achieve consensus about the rounding tolerance for each commonly prescribed medication.

RESULTS:

Three categories for medication-rounding philosophy emerged from our literature review: (1) medications for which rounding is used judiciously to retain the intended effect; (2) medications that are rounded with attention to potential unintended effects; and (3) medications that are rarely rounded because of the potential for toxicity. We assigned a small subset of medications to a fourth category—inadequate data—for which there was insufficient information to provide rounding recommendations. For all 102 medications, we were able to arrive at a consensus recommendation for rounding a given calculated dose.

CONCLUSIONS:

Results of this study provide the pediatric information technology community with a primary set of recommended rounding tolerances for commonly prescribed drugs. The interoperable knowledge base developed here can be integrated with existing and developing electronic prescribing systems, potentially improving prescribing safety and reducing cognitive workload.
Electrogenerated chemiluminescence from carbon dots
Authors: Sun L. , Teng T.-H. , Rashid Md. H. , Krysmann M. , Dallas P. , Wang Y. , Hyun B.-R. , Bartnik A. C. , Malliaras G. G. , Wise F. W. , Giannelis E. P.
Published: July 2011

We report an interesting property of carbon dots: they emit light under charge injection. We synthesized carbon dots in diameter about 20 nm using wet chemistry methods. The photoluminescence quantum efficiency of the carbon dots dissolved in water was about 11%. We observed strong electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) from the sample. This observation of ECL from carbon dots indicates that they could be a good candidate material for carbon-based electroluminescent devices.
Mortality among Guarani Indians in Southeastern and Southern Brazil
Authors: Cardoso Andrey Moreira , Coimbra Jr. Carlos E. A. , Barreto Carla Tatiana Garcia , Werneck Guilherme Loureiro , Santos Ricardo Ventura
Published: July 2011

Worldwide, indigenous peoples display a high burden of disease, expressed by profound health inequalities in comparison to non-indigenous populations. This study describes mortality patterns among the Guarani in Southern and Southeastern Brazil, with a focus on health inequalities. The Guarani population structure is indicative of high birth and death rates, low median age and low life expectancy at birth. The crude mortality rate (crude MR = 5.0/1,000) was similar to the Brazilian national rate, but the under-five MR (44.5/1,000) and the infant mortality rate (29.6/1,000) were twice the corresponding MR in the South and Southeast of Brazil. The proportion of post-neonatal infant deaths was 83.3%, 2.4 times higher than general population. The proportions of ill-defined (15.8%) and preventable causes (51.6%) were high. The principal causes of death were respiratory (40.6%) and infectious and parasitic diseases (18.8%), suggesting precarious living conditions and deficient health services. There is a need for greater investment in primary care and interventions in social determinants of health in order to reduce the health inequalities.
Increased Numbers of Low-Oxygenated Pancreatic Islets After Intraportal Islet Transplantation
Authors: Olsson Richard , Olerud Johan , Pettersson Ulrika , Carlsson Per-Ola
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE

No previous study has measured the oxygenation of intraportally transplanted islets, although recent data suggest that insufficient engraftment may result in hypoxia and loss of islet cells.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

After intraportal infusion into syngeneic mice, islet oxygenation was investigated in 1-day-old, 1-month-old, or 3-month-old grafts and compared with renal subcapsular grafts and native islets. Animals received an intravenous injection of pimonidazole for immunohistochemical detection of low-oxygenated islet cells (pO2 <10 mmHg), and caspase-3 immunostaining was performed to assess apoptosis rates in adjacent tissue sections.

RESULTS

In the native pancreas of nontransplanted animals, ∼30% of the islets stained positive for pimonidazole. In 1-day-old and 1-month-old grafts, the percentage of pimonidazole-positive islets in the liver was twice that of native islets, whereas this increase was abolished in 3-month-old grafts. Beneath the renal capsule, pimonidazole accumulation was, however, similar to native islets at all time points. Apoptosis rates were markedly increased in 1-day-old intrahepatic grafts compared with corresponding renal islet grafts, which were slightly increased compared with native islets. One month posttransplantation renal subcapsular grafts had similar frequencies of apoptosis as native islets, whereas apoptosis in intraportally implanted islets was still high. In the liver, islet graft vascular density increased between 1 and 3 months posttransplantation, and apoptosis rates simultaneously dropped to values similar to those observed in native islets.

CONCLUSIONS

The vascular engraftment of intraportally transplanted islets is markedly delayed compared with renal islet grafts. The prolonged ischemia of intraportally transplanted islets may favor an alternative implantation site.
Ganglioside GM1 Deficiency in Effector T Cells From NOD Mice Induces Resistance to Regulatory T-Cell Suppression
Authors: Wu Gusheng , Lu Zi-Hua , Gabius Hans-Joachim , Ledeen Robert W. , Bleich David
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE

To detect GM1 deficiency and determine its role in effector T cells (Teffs) from NOD mice in establishing resistance to regulatory T-cell (Treg) suppression.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

CD4+ and CD8+ Teffs were isolated from spleens of prediabetic NOD mice for comparison with similar cells from Balb/c, C57BL/6, and NOR mice. GM1 was quantified with thin-layer chromatography for total cellular GM1 and flow cytometry for cell-surface GM1. Suppression of Teff proliferation was determined by application of GM1 cross-linking agents or coculturing with Tregs. Calcium influx in Teffs was quantified using fura-2.

RESULTS

Resting and activated CD4+ and CD8+ Teffs of NOD mice contained significantly less GM1 than Teffs from the other three mouse strains tested. After activation, NOD Teffs resisted suppression by Tregs or GM1 cross-linking agents in contrast to robust suppression of Balb/c Teffs; this was reversed by preincubation of NOD Teffs with GM1. NOD Teffs also showed attenuated Ca2+ influx via transient receptor potential channel 5 (TRPC5) channels induced by GM1 cross-linking, and this, too, was reversed by elevation of Teff GM1.

CONCLUSIONS

GM1 deficiency occurs in NOD Teffs and contributes importantly to failed suppression, which is rectified by increasing Teff GM1. Such elevation also reverses subthreshold Ca2+ influx via TRPC5 channels, an essential aspect of suppression. Our results also support a critical role for galectin-1 as a GM1 cross-linking counter-receptor that fittingly is upregulated and released by Tregs during activation. These findings suggest a novel mechanism by which pathogenic Teffs evade regulatory suppression, thereby leading to autoimmune β-cell destruction and type 1 diabetes.
Novel Soy Germ Pasta Improves Endothelial Function, Blood Pressure, and Oxidative Stress in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Clerici Carlo , Nardi Elisabetta , Battezzati Pier Maria , Asciutti Stefania , Castellani Danilo , Corazzi Nadia , Giuliano Vittorio , Gizzi Stefania , Perriello Gabriele , Di Matteo Giorgio , Galli Francesco , Setchell Kenneth D.R.
Published: July 2011

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of a novel soy germ–enriched pasta, containing isoflavone aglycons, with conventional pasta on endothelial function and cardiovascular risk markers in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This randomized controlled double-blind crossover study compared one serving/day of soy germ pasta and conventional pasta for 8 weeks for effects on brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation, blood pressure, plasma lipids, oxidized LDL cholesterol, 8-iso-PGF2α, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione (GSH), and homocysteine.

RESULTS

Isoflavone-enriched pasta significantly improved arterial stiffness (P = 0.005) and reduced systolic (P = 0.026) and diastolic (P = 0.017) blood pressures. Plasma TAC increased (P = 0.0002), oxidized LDL cholesterol decreased (P = 0.009), 8-iso-PGF2α decreased (P = 0.001), GSH levels increased (P = 0.0003), and homocysteine decreased (P = 0.009) consistent with a reduction in oxidative stress. No significant changes were observed with conventional pasta.

CONCLUSIONS

Pasta enriched with biologically active isoflavone aglycons improved endothelial function and had beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk markers in patients with T2D.
Innovation Activity and Competitiveness of Manufacturing Divisions in Poland
Authors: Grzelak Maria
Published: July 2011

Increasing processes of globalization and integration in the word economy, dynamic market changes and growing social demands cause that particular sections of the national economy and their divisions as well as enterprises operating in them, become more and more often participants of competitive activity. According to M. Porter getting competitive advantage is possible only by means of innovation activity, and the capacity of industry for innovation and increasing technological level decide about competitiveness of the whole economy. That is why in present-day economic researches it is so important to define relations between competitiveness and innovation activity of enterprises. The objective of the article is an attempt to describe quantitatively the impact of outlays on research and development and outlays on innovation on three selected characteristics defining competitiveness of manufacturing enterprises. These characteristics are: gross value added, sold production and labour productivity. In the research were used statistical data of Central Statistical Office showing amounts of particular types of outlays divided into particular manufacturing divisions (section D, the Polish Classification of Activities) in the period 1999-2008. the analysis was conducted by means of panel models, where the basic period is calendar year, and the objects are manufacturing divisions on two-digit level of aggregation.
The constructor of Gasr Duib, Numisius Maximus, Trib.(unus cohortis I Syrorum sagittariorum)
Authors: Mattingly David
Published: July 2011

Le petit avant-poste de Gasr Duib en Libye occidentale est bien connu grâce à sa dédicace en 246. Ce texte mentionne trois personnes, le gouverneur provincial, le commandant du limes Tripolitanae et Numisius Maximus, tribunus. La nature de l'autorité du tribun a suscité de l'intérêt et on a cru d'abord que Numisius Maximus était le soldat à qui la garde de l'avant-poste avait été confiée (interprétation aggravée par l'hypothèse de l'existence possible d'une milice frontalière à cette époque). Récemment a été proposée une explication plus vraisemblable du statut de cet officier : il serait le commandant d'une unité auxiliaire régulière responsable de la construction de l'avant-poste. Cette courte note reprend et développe cette hypothèse en identifiant cette unité comme la cohors I Syrorum sagittariorum, que l'on sait avoir été stationnée quelque part dans la région au troisième siècle et avoir été commandée par un tribun. Des conclusions découlant d'une telle identification, une des plus importantes est de pouvoir présumer que le fort principal de la cohorte syrienne se trouvait à Tentheos (à ou près de Zintan) dans le ressort duquel (le limes Tentheitanus) Gasr Duib fut implanté. L'existence d'un fort principal pour une cohors milliaria dans le djebel libyen occidental est une donnée majeure pour notre compréhension du développement du secteur tripolitain du limes africain.
Nursing Students’ Preconceptions of the Community Health Clinical Experience: Implications for Nursing Education
Authors: Leh Sandra Kundrik
Published: July 2011

It is essential that nurse educators identify and attempt to understand students’ preconceptions related to upcoming clinical experiences to develop strategies that are effective in preparing the students for entry into new and unique settings. This qualitative study described nursing students’ preconceptions as they entered the community health clinical rotation. Six major themes emerged: feeling insecure and unprepared for the community health clinical experience; contemplating risks to personal and client safety in the community; anticipating a change of pace; sensing a loss of control; envisioning isolation; and interpreting the value of community health nursing. Findings from this study provide nurse educators and preceptors with insight into understanding students’ needs as they enter the community setting. Facilitating a positive transition for students supports efforts to improve the image of and create favorable attitudes toward community health nursing practice.
The Role of Spectral-Domain OCT in the Diagnosis and Management of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Regatieri Caio V. , Branchini Lauren , Duker Jay S.
Published: July 2011

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) has emerged as the ancillary examination of choice to assist the diagnosis and management of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). SD-OCT provides more detailed images of intraretinal, subretinal, and subretinal pigment epithelium fluid when compared to time-domain technology, leading to higher and earlier detection rates of neovascular AMD activity. Improvements in image analysis and acquisition speed make it important for decision-making in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. However, this new technology needs to be validated for its role in the improvement of visual outcomes in the context of anti-angiogenic therapy.
Delta-Like Ligand 4 Regulates Central Nervous System T Cell Accumulation during Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Reynolds Nathanael D. , Lukacs Nicholas W. , Long Nancy , Karpus William J.
Published: July 2011

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a CD4+ T cell-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS that serves as a model for multiple sclerosis. Notch receptor signaling in T lymphocytes has been shown to regulate thymic selection and peripheral differentiation. In the current study, we hypothesized that Notch ligand–receptor interaction affects EAE development by regulating encephalitogenic T cell trafficking. We demonstrate that CNS-infiltrating myeloid dendritic cells, macrophages, and resident microglia expressed Delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4) after EAE induction. Treatment of mice with a DLL4-specific blocking Ab significantly inhibited the development of clinical disease induced by active priming. Furthermore, the treatment resulted in decreased CNS accumulation of mononuclear cells in the CNS. Anti-DLL4 treatment did not significantly alter development of effector cytokine expression by Ag-specific T cells. In contrast, anti-DLL4 treatment reduced T cell mRNA and functional cell surface expression of the chemokine receptors CCR2 and CCR6. Adoptive transfer of Ag-specific T cells to mice treated with anti-DLL4 resulted in decreased clinical severity and diminished Ag-specific CD4+ T cell accumulation in the CNS. These results suggest a role for DLL4 regulation of EAE pathogenesis through modulation of T cell chemokine receptor expression and migration to the CNS.
MicroRNA Regulation of Molecular Networks Mapped by Global MicroRNA, mRNA, and Protein Expression in Activated T Lymphocytes
Authors: Grigoryev Yevgeniy A. , Kurian Sunil M. , Hart Traver , Nakorchevsky Aleksey A. , Chen Caifu , Campbell Daniel , Head Steven R. , Yates John R. , Salomon Daniel R.
Published: July 2011

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate specific immune mechanisms, but their genome-wide regulation of T lymphocyte activation is largely unknown. We performed a multidimensional functional genomics analysis to integrate genome-wide differential mRNA, miRNA, and protein expression as a function of human T lymphocyte activation and time. We surveyed expression of 420 human miRNAs in parallel with genome-wide mRNA expression. We identified a unique signature of 71 differentially expressed miRNAs, 57 of which were previously not known as regulators of immune activation. The majority of miRNAs are upregulated, mRNA expression of these target genes is downregulated, and this is a function of binding multiple miRNAs (combinatorial targeting). Our data reveal that consideration of this complex signature, rather than single miRNAs, is necessary to construct a full picture of miRNA-mediated regulation. Molecular network mapping of miRNA targets revealed the regulation of activation-induced immune signaling. In contrast, pathways populated by genes that are not miRNA targets are enriched for metabolism and biosynthesis. Finally, we specifically validated miR-155 (known) and miR-221 (novel in T lymphocytes) using locked nucleic acid inhibitors. Inhibition of these two highly upregulated miRNAs in CD4+ T cells was shown to increase proliferation by removing suppression of four target genes linked to proliferation and survival. Thus, multiple lines of evidence link top functional networks directly to T lymphocyte immunity, underlining the value of mapping global gene, protein, and miRNA expression.
Pharmacokinetics of intranasal fentanyl spray in patients with cancer and breakthrough pain
Authors: Kaasa, MD, PhD Stein , Moksnes, MD Kristin , Nolte, MD Thomas , Lefebvre-Kuntz, MD Daniele , Popper, MS, PhD Lars , Kress, MD, PhD Hans Georg
Published: July 2011

Objective: This study reports the pharmacokinetics, tolerability, and safety of an intranasal fentanyl spray (INFS) in patients with cancer and breakthrough pain (BTP).Design: A randomized, open-label, two-period, crossover trial.Patients: Nineteen adult patients (mean 57.8 years) with BTP, receiving opioid treatment for chronic background pain, from clinical departments in Austria, France, and Norway entered and completed the study.Intervention: Patients were randomly assigned to receive one of six INFS dose sequences: 50/100, 100/50, 50/200, 200/50, 100/200, and 200/100 μg. INFS was administered as a single dose in one nostril. Each dose was separated by a minimum of 48 hours.Main outcome measure: Plasma fentanyl concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry from blood samples obtained at 0 (predose) and frequently up to 300 minutes after INFS administration. Blood pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate were assessed eight times during each of the two treatment periods.Results: Mean fentanyl plasma concentrations increased in a dose-dependent manner, peaking for all fentanyl doses 9-15 minutes after INFS administration. Median Tmax values were 15, 12, and 15 minutes for the 50, 100, and 200 μg doses of INFS, respectively. Mean (SD) values for Cmax were 351 (±226), 595 (±400), and 1195 (±700) pg/mL, respectively, indicating dose-proportionality. Six patients (31.6 percent) experienced adverse events during the treatment period, the majority being mild in severity.Conclusion: INFS at doses of 50, 100, and 200 μg showed a short Tmax and was well tolerated in patients with cancer. These results support INFS use in patients with cancer suffering from BTP.
Breakthrough pain in community-dwelling patients with cancer pain and noncancer pain, Part 1: Prevalence and characteristics
Authors: Portenoy, MD Russell K. , Bruns, PsyD Daniel , Shoemaker, BSN Bonnie , Shoemaker, MD Steven A.
Published: July 2011

Background: Most breakthrough pain (BTP) studies assess patients with advanced cancer or those receiving inpatient care. Studies in noncancer populations are limited to surveys of pain clinics and patients with other advanced diseases. To better understand BTP, data are needed from less selected populations.Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate BTP in opioid-treated ambulatory patients with chronic cancer or noncancer pain treated in community practices.Methods: Primary care physicians or community-based oncologists recruited a convenience sample for a cross-sectional study of BTP at 17 sites in the United States. Physicians could not be pain specialists. Patients were eligible if they had any type of pain for â‰¥3 months and were receiving an opioid drug on a regular basis that controlled the pain. The patients responded to a structured interview comprising items that assessed the baseline pain and items that assessed BTP, if present.Results: In total, 355 patients were screened, 191 were eligible and 177 (93 percent) provided data for analysis. Seventy-eight patients had cancer pain and 99 had noncancer pain. Patients with cancer were older (mean Â± SD age 61.3 Â± 11.2 years vs 51.4 Â± 13.6 years, p < 0.001), and patients without cancer had more neuropathic pain (21 vs 12 percent, p < 0.05) and a longer pain duration (median 3.5 vs 1 years, p < 0.001). BTP occurred in 33 percent with cancer and 48 percent with noncancer pain (p = 0.042). BTP did not vary by diagnosis, but neuropathic pain was more common in those with BTP (27 vs 10 percent, p < 0.001). In patients with and without cancer, the median daily number of episodes was 1, the median time to maximum pain was 1-2 minutes, and the median duration was 45-60 minutes. There were fewer BTP precipitants in the patients with cancer (46 vs 80 percent of pains, p < 0.05), and they had less predictable pain (p < 0.05).Conclusions: The prevalence of BTP among community-dwelling patients is lower than that found in prior studies of more selected populations. BTP is more prevalent among patients with noncancer pain than patients with cancer pain, and although there are many similarities, some differences may be relevant to treatment strategies.
The impact of financial discharge from methadone maintenance therapy on incarceration
Authors: Zaller, PhD Nickolas D. , Fu, BSc Jeannia J. , Bazazi, BA Alexander R. , Rich, MD, MPH Josiah D.
Published: July 2011

Objectives: The authors sought to analyze the relationship between financial discharge from methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and subsequent involvement in the criminal justice system among individuals receiving state-subsidized MMT slots and individuals who were financially discharged from MMT.Methods: The authors examined state-level client treatment records from all individuals who were on a subsidized MMT slot and all individuals who were discharged due to their inability to pay (financial discharge) from one of the three MMT programs during an 18-month period. The authors cross-referenced these records, through a state-managed database, with records of the Department of Corrections.Results: Individuals in the control group had longer durations of stay in MMT and fewer other kinds of treatment admissions during the study period. An 81 percent of individuals in the financially discharged group received other treatment episodes versus 0.3 percent in the control group (p < 0.001). More than twice the number of individuals financially discharged from MMT were incarcerated during the study period when compared with the control group (67 percent vs 33 percent, p < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, individuals in the control group had 0.26 times the odds of incarceration when compared with individuals financially discharged from MMT (95% CI: 0.09-0.73).Conclusions: MMT has been shown to reduce involvement in the criminal justice system, yet cost of MMT continues to inhibit its accessibility. Our data suggest that removal of cost as a barrier to access MMT may facilitate longer treatment duration and minimize involvement with the criminal justice system.
Comparison of postoperative analgesia with epidural butorphanol/bupivacaine versus fentanyl/bupivacaine following pediatric urological procedures
Authors: Szabova, MD Alexandra , Sadhasivam, MD, MPH Senthilkumar , Wang, MS Yu , Nick, PhD Todd G. , Goldschneider, MD Kenneth
Published: July 2011

Background: The aim of this retrospective study is to compare safety and efficacy of postoperative epidural butorphanol/bupivacaine with the gold-standard epidural analgesic infusion fentanyl/bupivacaine in children.Methods: With the Institutional Review Board’s approval, the authors searched their Pain Management Database and divided children who received epidural analgesia into two groups. Each butorphanol group subject was matched with two fentanyl group subjects. Demographic data, pain scores, epidural interventions, epidural side effects, use of rescue opioid analgesia and adjuvant analgesics, causes of epidural failure, time of first oral intake and ambulation, and length of stay were statistically compared.Results: A total of 191 patients were identified between 2000 and 2007; 58 in epidural butorphanol/bupivacaine and 133 in fentanyl/bupivacaine groups. Demographic data were comparable between the groups. The number of children with good pain control on postoperative days 1 and 2 in butorphanol (84 and 82 percent) and fentanyl (93 and 91 percent) groups were statistically similar (p = 0.06 and 0.13, respectively). Incidences of epidural side effects, especially pruritus, were significantly higher in the fentanyl group. Significantly more children in the butorphanol group required epidural rate changes when compared with those in the fentanyl group. Incidence of failed epidurals was significantly higher in the fentanyl group when compared with that in the butorphanol group. Clinically significant respiratory depression occurred in two children in the fentanyl group and in none of the children in the butorphanol group (p > 0.99).Conclusions: Epidural butorphanol provided similar analgesia to epidural fentanyl after urological procedures in children, but butorphanol caused less pruritus than fentanyl.Implication statement: Epidural analgesia with butorphanol/bupivacaine is effective in children undergoing urological procedures. When compared with epidural fentanyl, epidural butorphanol causes significantly less itching.