bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monotone Positive Solutions for an Elastic Beam Equation with Nonlinear Boundary Conditions
Authors: Sun Jian-Ping , Wang Xian-Qiang
Published: September 2011

This paper is concerned with the existence of monotone positive solutions for an elastic beam equation with nonlinear boundary conditions. By applying monotone iteration method, we not only obtain the existence of monotone positive solutions but also establish iterative schemes for approximating the solutions. It is worth mentioning that these iterative schemes start off with zero function or quadratic function, which is very useful and feasible for computational purpose. An example is also included to illustrate the main results obtained.
Southern Blight (Sclerotium rolfsiiSacc.) of Cowpea: Genetic Characterization of Two Sources of Resistance
Authors: Fery Richard L. , Dukes Philip D.
Published: September 2011

Field studies were conducted to characterize the genetic nature of resistance to southern blight (caused bySclerotium rolfsiiSacc.) exhibited by the cowpea [Vigna unguiculata(L.) Walp.] cultivars Carolina Cream and Brown Crowder and to determine if a genetic relationship exists for this resistance between the two cultivars. Examination of the comparative frequency distributions of the parental and progeny populations of the “Carolina Cream” x “Magnolia Blackeye” and “Brown Crowder” x “Magnolia Blackeye” crosses and the corresponding segregation data indicates that the southern blight resistances exhibited by “Carolina Cream” and “Brown Crowder” are conditioned by single dominant genes. Examination of the segregation data from the parental and progeny populations of the “Carolina Cream” x “Brown Crowder” cross suggests that the two resistance genes are not allelic. The availability of each of the resistance genes in cultivar-type genetic backgrounds should allow for rapid incorporation of southern blight resistance genes into other cowpea cultivars by the application of conventional plant breeding methodologies.
Rectovesical Fistula Related to Transurethral Resection of a Bladder Lesion
Authors: Topaktaş Ramazan , Tepeler Abdulkadir , Kurt Omer , Erdem Mehmet Remzi , Armağan Abdullah , Önol Şinasi Yavuz
Published: September 2011

A rectovesical fistula (RVF) is an uncommon complication of urooncologic surgery. Although several RVFs have been reported, our case is the first reported RVF in the literature that iatrogenically occurred after transurethral resection of the bladder. A single-stage primary repair with omental flap interposition without a colostomy was successfully performed because of the persistence of the fistula during followup. After 6 months of followup, no fistula or bladder mass was detected.
Effects of Voluntary Running in the Female Mice Lateral Septum on BDNF and Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor 2
Authors: Gustafsson Sofia , Liang Wen , Hilke Susanne
Published: September 2011

Voluntary physical activities are known to modulate anxiety and depressive/like behaviors in both animals and humans. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), has been reported to be elevated following exercise. BDNF, as well as type 2 corticotrophin releasing factor receptor (CRFR) 2, has been shown to mediate anxiety-like behavior. In the present study we examined the effects of long-term voluntary exercise on the transcripts for BDNF and CRFR2 in the lateral septum (LS) and for CRF in the central amygdala (CeA) in female mice. Thus, increased activity of CRF in the CeA is associated with anxiety-like behavior. Quantitative RT-PCR was employed to measure levels of mRNA in punch biopsies from LS and CeA. In addition, measurements of the concentration of corticosterone and leptin in plasma were employed. In the LS, we found a three-fold increase of BDNF mRNA (P<0.05) but no significant change in CRFR2 mRNA. No changes in CRF in the amygdala were observed but we found a decrease in the levels of plasma corticosterone. Plasma leptin and the weight of perigonadal fat pads were decreased following exercise. In conclusion, these data show that BDNF gene expression in the LS is influenced by long-term exercise in females but not CRFR2.
Endobronchial Lipoma: An Unusual Cause of Bronchial Obstruction
Authors: Cao Dianbo , Sun Yutian , Yang Sirui
Published: September 2011

Endobronchial lipoma is a rare benign tumor. It is difficult to differentiate benign endobronchial lipoma from their malignant counterparts, as their symptoms and complications are almost alike. Here, we describe the clinical and radiological features of EL in two cases. Multislice CT (MSCT) may play an important role in the diagnosis for EL.
Levels of Tannins and Flavonoids in Medicinal Plants: Evaluating Bioprospecting Strategies
Authors: Siqueira Clarissa Fernanda de Queiroz , Cabral Daniela Lyra Vasconcelos , Peixoto Sobrinho Tadeu José da Silva , de Amorim Elba Lúcia Cavalcanti , de Melo Joabe Gomes , Araújo Thiago Antônio de Sousa , de Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino
Published: September 2011

There are several species of plants used by traditional communities in the Brazilian semiarid. An approach used in the search for natural substances that possess therapeutic value is ethnobotany or ethnopharmacology. Active substances that have phenolic groups in their structure have great pharmacological potential. To establish a quantitative relationship between the species popularly considered to be antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and antidiarrheal, the contents of tannins and flavonoids were determined. The plant selection was based on an ethnobotanical survey conducted in a community located in the municipality of Altinho, northeastern Brazil. For determination of tannin content was utilized the technique of radial diffusion, and for flavonoids, an assay based on the complexation of aluminum chloride. The group of plants with antimicrobial indications showed a higher content of tannins compared to the control groups. The results evidence suggests a possible relationship between these compounds and the observed activity.
Pattern and Risk Factors of Central Compartment Lymph Node Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Prospective Study from an Endocrine Surgery Centre
Authors: Agarwal Sudhi , Chand Gyan , Jaiswal Sushila , Mishra Anjali , Agarwal Gaurav , Agarwal Amit , Verma A. K. , Mishra S. K.
Published: September 2011

Lymphatic metastasis in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is eminent; however, the extent of central compartment lymph nodes dissection (CCD) is controversial and requires the knowledge of pattern and risk factors for central compartment lymph nodes metastasis (CCM). We did a prospective study of 47 cases with PTC who underwent total thyroidectomy (TT) with CCD with/without lateral lymph nodes dissection (LND). Clinicopathological profile including CCM as ipsilateral and contralateral was documented. On histopathology, the mean tumour size was3.57±2.42 cm 59.6% had CCM, which was bilateral in the majority (60.72%). The tumour-size was the most important predictor for lymph nodes metastasis-(P=0.018) whereas multicentricity-(P=0.002) and ipsilateral CCM-(P=0.001) were the predictors for contralateral CCM. The long-term morbidity of CCD done in primary setting is comparable with TT-alone. Bilateral CCD should be done with thyroidectomy in PTC, otherwise the risk of residual diseases and subsequent recurrence is high. The long-term morbidity is comparable in experienced hands.
A New Look at Trigger Point Injections
Authors: Wong Clara S. M. , Wong Steven H. S.
Published: September 2011

Trigger point injections are commonly practised pain interventional techniques. However, there is still lack of objective diagnostic criteria for trigger points. The mechanisms of action of trigger point injection remain obscure and its efficacy remains heterogeneous. The advent of ultrasound technology in the noninvasive real-time imaging of soft tissues sheds new light on visualization of trigger points, explaining the effect of trigger point injection by blockade of peripheral nerves, and minimizing the complications of blind injection.
Tumor Angiogenesis as a Target for Dietary Cancer Prevention
Authors: Li William W. , Li Vincent W. , Hutnik Michelle , Chiou Albert S.
Published: September 2011

Between 2000 and 2050, the number of new cancer patients diagnosed annually is expected to double, with an accompanying increase in treatment costs of more than $80 billion over just the next decade. Efficacious strategies for cancer prevention will therefore be vital for improving patients' quality of life and reducing healthcare costs. Judah Folkman first proposed antiangiogenesis as a strategy for preventing dormant microtumors from progressing to invasive cancer. Although antiangiogenic drugs are now available for many advanced malignancies (colorectal, lung, breast, kidney, liver, brain, thyroid, neuroendocrine, multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndrome), cost and toxicity considerations preclude their broad use for cancer prevention. Potent antiangiogenic molecules have now been identified in dietary sources, suggesting that a rationally designed antiangiogenic diet could provide a safe, widely available, and novel strategy for preventing cancer. This paper presents the scientific, epidemiologic, and clinical evidence supporting the role of an antiangiogenic diet for cancer prevention.
Current Concepts of Immunology and Diagnosis in Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Authors: Benson Michael D.
Published: September 2011

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in developed countries. Current thinking about pathophysiology has shifted away from embolism toward a maternal immune response to the fetus. Two immunologic mechanisms have been studied to date. Anaphylaxis appears to be doubtful while the available evidence supports a role for complement activation. With the mechanism remaining to be elucidated, AFE remains a clinical diagnosis. It is diagnosed based on one or more of four key signs/symptoms: cardiovascular collapse, respiratory distress, coagulopathy, and/or coma/seizures. The only laboratory test that reliably supports the diagnosis is the finding of fetal material in the maternal pulmonary circulation at autopsy. Perhaps the most compelling mystery surrounding AFE is not why one in 20,000 parturients are afflicted, but rather how the vast majority of women can tolerate the foreign antigenic presence of their fetus both within their uterus and circulation?
Genotype- and Mutation Site–Specific QT Adaptation During Exercise, Recovery, and Postural Changes in Children With Long-QT Syndrome
Authors: Aziz Peter F. , Wieand Tammy S. , Ganley Jamie , Henderson Jacqueline , Patel Akash R. , Iyer V. Ramesh , Vogel R. Lee , McBride Michael , Vetter Victoria L. , Shah Maully J.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Exercise stress testing has shown diagnostic utility in adult patients with long-QT syndrome (LQTS); however, the QT interval adaptation in response to exercise in pediatric patients with LQTS has received little attention.

Methods and Results—

One-hundred fifty-eight patients were divided into 3 groups: Those with LQTS type 1 (LQT1) or LQTS type 2 (LQT2) and normal control subjects without cardiovascular disease. Each patient underwent a uniform exercise protocol with a cycle ergometer followed by a 9-minute recovery phase with continuous 12-lead ECG monitoring. Each patient underwent a baseline ECG while resting in the supine position and in a standstill position during continuous ECG recording to determine changes in the QT and RR intervals. Fifty patients were gene-positive for LQTS (n=29 for LQT1 and n=21 for LQT2), and the control group consisted of 108 patients. QT interval adaptation was abnormal in the LQT1 patients compared with LQT2 and control patients (
P
<0.001). A corrected QT interval (QTc) >460 ms in the late recovery phase at 7 minutes predicted LQT1 or LQT2 versus control subjects with 96% specificity, 86% sensitivity, and a 91% positive predictive value. A recovery ΔQTc
(7 min−1 min)
>30 ms predicted LQT2 versus LQT1 with 75% sensitivity, 82% specificity, and a 75% positive predictive value. The postural ΔQT was significantly different between LQTS and control groups (
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

Genotype-specific changes in repolarization response to exercise and recovery exist in the pediatric population and are of diagnostic utility in LQTS. An extended recovery phase is preferable to assess the repolarization response after exercise in the pediatric population.
Relationship Between the Temporal Profile of Plasma microRNA and Left Ventricular Remodeling in Patients After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zile Michael R. , Mehurg Shannon M. , Arroyo Jazmine E. , Stroud Robert E. , DeSantis Stacia M. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: September 2011

Background—

microRNAs (miRs) are small noncoding RNAs that recognize and bind to mRNAs and inhibit protein translation or degrade mRNA. Studies in animal models have suggested that miRs play a translational or posttranslational regulatory role in myocardial growth, fibrosis, viability, and remodeling. However, whether specific temporal changes in miRs occur in patients during the left ventricular (LV) remodeling process that follows a myocardial infarction (post-MI) remains unknown. The current pilot study tested the hypotheses that plasma miRs could be reliably measured in post-MI patients and that there is a relationship between temporal changes in specific miRs and post-MI LV structural remodeling.

Methods and Results—

LV end-diastolic volume (echocardiography) and plasma miR were measured in age-matched referent controls (CTLs, n=12) and post-MI patients (n=12) from day 2 through day 90 post-MI. Selected miRs (miR-1, miR-21, miR-29a, miR-133a, and miR-208) were measured using quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and normalized for endogenous small nuclear RNA U6. After MI, LV end-diastolic volume increased progressively compared with CTL; this was accompanied by time-dependent changes in specific miRs. For example, miR-21 initially decreased 2 days post-MI (0.3±0.1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05), increased 5 days post-MI (2±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05), and returned to CTL values at later post-MI time points. In contrast, miR-29a increased 5 days post-MI (4±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05) and then decreased to CTL at later time points. miR-208 increased 5 days post-MI (3±1-fold versus CTL;
P
<0.05) and remained elevated up to 90 days post-MI.

Conclusions—

A time-dependent change in miRs occurred in post-MI patients, including an early and robust increase in miRs that has affected myocardial growth, fibrosis, and viability. Thus, serially profiling miRs in the plasma of post-MI patients may hold both mechanistic and prognostic significance.
Imaging
Authors: Nguyen Patricia K. , Lan Feng , Wang Yongming , Wu Joseph C.
Published: September 2011

Stem cells have been touted as the holy grail of medical therapy, with promises to regenerate cardiac tissue, but it appears the jury is still out on this novel therapy. Using advanced imaging technology, scientists have discovered that these cells do not survive nor engraft long-term. In addition, only marginal benefit has been observed in large-animal studies and human trials. However, all is not lost. Further application of advanced imaging technology will help scientists unravel the mysteries of stem cell therapy and address the clinical hurdles facing its routine implementation. In this review, we will discuss how advanced imaging technology will help investigators better define the optimal delivery method, improve survival and engraftment, and evaluate efficacy and safety. Insights gained from this review may direct the development of future preclinical investigations and clinical trials.
Role of Cardiac Stem Cells in Cardiac Pathophysiology: A Paradigm Shift in Human Myocardial Biology
Authors: Leri Annarosa , Kajstura Jan , Anversa Piero
Published: September 2011

RETRACTION

This article has been retracted:

Circ Res
. 2018;123:e00. DOI: 10.1161/RES.0000000000000248.
What are the Consequences of Being Disconnected in a Broadband-Connected World?
Authors: Horrigan John B.
Published: September 2011

The evolution of the Internet in the past decade — from a slow, stationary, and primarily communications-based technology to a mobile, fast technology that supports a range of communication, participatory, and transactional applications — has made access more valuable, and disconnection more consequential, for individuals. This evolution means that stakeholders should embrace a different framing of the digital divide, focusing on the costs of digital exclusion. These costs can fall on an individual, if the Internet is the only way to carry out some tasks, and on society, if expensive and less-efficient legacy systems must be maintained to serve a shrinking minority without access. Whereas the digital divide debate concerns technology scarcity for certain population segments, addressing the costs of digital exclusion is about developing people's capacity to manage today's abundance of digital resources. This essay offers suggestions on a framework to develop tools that will enable individuals to take advantage of the affordances of broadband.
Safety in Cyberspace
Authors: Cerf Vinton G.
Published: September 2011

Safety in cyberspace continues to be an elusive objective. This essay explores various metaphors to aid thinking about the means by which safety might be increased. Notions such as cyber-fire-departments or cyber-police-departments as well as models drawn from public health scenarios are considered. The legal frameworks in which safety can be improved and international agreements adopted toward this end are briefly discussed. Users can also contribute to their own safety by adopting various practices that reduce vulnerability to cyber-infection and compromise.
Who Speaks? Citizen Political Voice on the Internet Commons
Authors: Schlozman Kay Lehman , Verba Sidney , Brady Henry E.
Published: September 2011

Using an August 2008 representative survey of Americans conducted by the Pew Internet & American Life Project, we investigate the consequences of Internet-based political activity for long-standing patterns of participatory inequality. There is little evidence of change in the extent to which political participation is stratified by socioeconomic status, even when we account for the fact that the well educated and affluent are more likely to be Internet users. However, because young adults are much more likely than their elders to be comfortable with electronic technologies and to use the Internet, the Web has ameliorated the well-known participatory deficit among those who have recently joined the electorate. Still, among Internet users, the young are not especially politically active. How these trends play out in the future depends on what happens to the current Web-savvy younger generation and the cohorts that follow as well as on the rapidly developing political capacities of the Web.
Neural Evidence for a Distinction between Short-term Memory and the Focus of Attention
Authors: Lewis-Peacock Jarrod A. , Drysdale Andrew T. , Oberauer Klaus , Postle Bradley R.
Published: September 2011

It is widely assumed that the short-term retention of information is accomplished via maintenance of an active neural trace. However, we demonstrate that memory can be preserved across a brief delay despite the apparent loss of sustained representations. Delay period activity may, in fact, reflect the focus of attention, rather than STM. We unconfounded attention and memory by causing external and internal shifts of attention away from items that were being actively retained. Multivariate pattern analysis of fMRI indicated that only items within the focus of attention elicited an active neural trace. Activity corresponding to representations of items outside the focus quickly dropped to baseline. Nevertheless, this information was remembered after a brief delay. Our data also show that refocusing attention toward a previously unattended memory item can reactivate its neural signature. The loss of sustained activity has long been thought to indicate a disruption of STM, but our results suggest that, even for small memory loads not exceeding the capacity limits of STM, the active maintenance of a stimulus representation may not be necessary for its short-term retention.
A Renaissance in Twentieth-Century Catholic Theology
Authors: Flynn Gabriel
Published: September 2011

This article considers the nature and genesis of the ressourcement movement and argues that its leading exponents inspired a renaissance in twentieth-century Catholic theology that culminated in the reforms of Vatican II. It attempts to shed light on the complex question of terminology, the interpretation of which still engenders controversy in analyses of ressourcement and nouvelle théologie. It offers insights into the role of the ressourcement theologians in the struggle against Nazism and asserts that the movement possesses an enduring relevance for the Christian Churches and for modern society.
Dabigatran Etexilate in Atrial Fibrillation Patients With Severe Renal Impairment: Dose Identification Using Pharmacokinetic Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Lehr Thorsten , Haertter Sebastian , Liesenfeld Karl‐Heinz , Staab Alexander , Clemens Andreas , Reilly Paul A. , Friedman Jeffrey
Published: September 2011

Dabigatran, administered orally as the prodrug dabigatran etexilate (DE), is a direct thrombin inhibitor shown to be effective in the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this analysis was to derive a modeling and simulation‐based dose and dosing regimen for AF patients with severe renal failure who could potentially benefit from the use of DE. The exposure was simulated for AF patients with severe renal impairment for several combinations of doses (75, 110, 150 mg) and posologies (BID, QD, Q2D). Simulations were based on a population pharmacokinetic model derived from data from 9522 patients from the pivotal phase III study (RE‐LY). Atrial fibrillation patients with a creatinine clearance (CRCL) of <30 to ≥15 mL/min treated with a dose of 75 mg DE BID have target plasma level and exposure data largely within the concentration range proven to be safe and effective in AF patients with CRCL >30 mL/min receiving 150 mg BID. This dosing algorithm was also confirmed and supported by the United States Food and Drug Administration Clinical Pharmacology Division using their model based on the data from the dedicated renal impairment study and taking into account the safety and efficacy information from RE‐LY.
Compact hybrid electrohydraulic actuators using smart materials: A review
Authors: Chaudhuri Anirban , Wereley Norman
Published: September 2011

The development of compact hybrid electrohydraulic actuators driven by various smart materials has been widely reported in the literature in recent years. Such solid-state-induced strain actuators have applications in a variety of aerospace and automotive and mechanical engineering fields. These devices are capable of producing high stroke (or displacement) and high force (or pressures) in a compact form factor by utilizing the large bandwidth and energy density of currently available smart materials. The basic operation of these hybrid actuators involves high-frequency bidirectional operation of an active material that is converted to unidirectional motion of a hydraulic fluid by a set of valves. Over the last decade, several prototype hybrid actuators have been designed using piezoelectric (PZT-5H), magnetostrictive (Terfenol-D), and electrostrictive (PMN-PT) materials as the driving elements, with actuation frequencies ranging from 10 Hz to 1 kHz. Power outputs and volumetric flow rates have reached up to 20 W and 40 cm3/s, respectively. Different mathematical models have been developed to evaluate the performance of these hybrid actuators. While early efforts focused on a simple, quasi-static approach to simulate pump operation, more complex dynamic models have been recently developed to capture the complex interaction between the smart material and the transmission fluid at high operating frequencies. The objective of this survey is to review the state-of-the-art in compact hybrid electrohydraulic actuation systems and to summarize design and modeling efforts.
Targeting Family Risk Factors in the Context of Treating Youth Depression: A Survey of Psychologists
Authors: Parra Gilbert R. , Buckholdt Kelly E. , Olsen James P. , Jobe-Shields Lisa , Davis Genevieve L. , Gamble Heather L.
Published: September 2011

This study investigated the practices and perceptions of psychologists related to targeting family risk factors when treating youth depression. Participants were practicing psychologists recruited through the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology ( N = 279). Psychologists completed a brief anonymous survey about addressing parental psychopathology, interparental discord, and parent–child relationship problems when treating youth depression. Psychologists tended to use clinical interviews with parents and youth to assess family risk factors for a large percentage of their cases, whereas they tended to use questionnaires completed by parents and youth for a relatively small percentage of cases. When psychologists made treatment recommendations related to family risk factors, they perceived that a relatively small percentage of families adhered to the recommendations. Although they tended to report knowing when to make treatment recommendations that target family risk factors, they felt less confident in how to get families to follow the recommendations. Results highlight important directions for future research related to directly targeting family risk factors in the context of treating youth depression.
The Coal Miner’s Daughter Gets a PhD
Authors: Tilley-Lubbs Gresilda A.
Published: September 2011

Using poetry, the author examines the journey that carried her from a coal mining family in a small town in West Virginia to an assistant professorship at a Research I university. Through performance autoethnography, she explores the influences that led to her perception of herself as an outsider in the academic community. She also considers how her background inspires her to establish relationships and conduct research in Latino communities. She questions the positioning/repositioning of the essence of self within the fluidity of moving back and forth between coal mining family roots and academic colleagues and friends. She attempts to understand her story through reflecting, writing, and performing as inquiry.
Death—A Poem
Authors: Lapum Jennifer
Published: September 2011

Through poetic inquiry, the author shares embodied responses to death.
Neir Riel (Strong Girls)
Authors: Harris Anne
Published: September 2011

This article examines the ways in which Sudanese Australian students from refugee backgrounds are often perceived in their high schools as transgressive, and how this transgression—perceived or real—may become for them a liberatory invitation for both students and teachers, and a means to a reconstruction of self, educational contexts, and freedom (hooks). Through discussion of the ethnocinematic research project Cross-Marked: Sudanese Australian Young Women Talk Education, the author comments on the complexities of the performance of identity for teachers, researchers, and coparticipants across differences of age, race, sexuality, geography, and class.
Social work, ideology, discourse and the limits of post-hegemony
Authors: Carey Malcolm , Foster Victoria
Published: September 2011

•  Summary: This article critically examines the problematic status of ideology (and discourse) with regard to social work, and, in relation, questions any contested elevation of sociological theories which suggest we now live in a ‘post-hegemonic’ age. Three types of ideology relating to social work are explored, and it is proposed that such case examples (among others) have, and continue to, maintain a significant influence within state social work. Examples include the role of science, neo-liberalism and professionalism. Each is examined through the work of Althusser, Gramsci and Foucault to underline their significance.

•  Findings: Within social work there is evidence to support aspects of the social or political fragmentary trends stressed by advocates of a post-hegemony thesis. However, here it is argued instead that reliance upon hegemony has actually increased rather than disappeared as social work has become less structured, more uncertain and increasingly dependent upon unpredictable markets of social care.

•  Applications: Critical yet careful analysis of the relationship between ideology and social work can help us to increase understanding of social work practice and education.
Effectiveness of an Ultrasound Training Module for Internal Medicine Residents
Authors: Keddis Mira T , Cullen Michael W , Reed Darcy A , Halvorsen Andrew J , McDonald Furman S , Takahashi Paul Y , Bhagra Anjali
Published: September 2011

Background

Few internal medicine residency programs provide formal ultrasound training. This study sought to assess the feasibility of simulation based ultrasound training among first year internal medicine residents and measure their comfort at effectively using ultrasound to perform invasive procedures before and after this innovative model of ultrasound training.

Methods

A simulation based ultrasound training module was implemented during intern orientation that incorporated didactic and practical experiences in a simulation and cadaver laboratory. Participants completed anonymous pre and post surveys in which they reported their level of confidence in the use of ultrasound technology and their comfort in identifying anatomic structures including: lung, pleural effusion, bowel, peritoneal cavity, ascites, thyroid, and internal jugular vein. Survey items were structured on a 5-point Likert scales (1 = extremely unconfident, 5 = extremely confident).

Results

Seventy-five out of seventy-six interns completed the pre-intervention survey and 55 completed the post-survey. The mean confidence score (SD) increased to 4.00 (0.47) (p < 0.0001). The mean (SD) comfort ranged from 3.61 (0.84) for peritoneal cavity to 4.48 (0.62) for internal jugular vein. Confidence in identifying all anatomic structures showed an increase over the pre-intervention means (p < 0.002).

Conclusion

A simulation based ultrasound learning module can improve the self-reported confidence with which residents identify structures important in performing invasive ultrasound guided procedures. Incorporating an ultrasound module into residents' education may address perceived need for ultrasound training, improve procedural skills, and enhance patient safety.
Lack of adaptation to human tetherin in HIV-1 Group O and P
Authors: Yang Su Jung , Lopez Lisa A , Exline Colin M , Haworth Kevin G , Cannon Paula M
Published: September 2011

Background

HIV-1 viruses are categorized into four distinct groups: M, N, O and P. Despite the same genomic organization, only the group M viruses are responsible for the world-wide pandemic of AIDS, suggesting better adaptation to human hosts. Previously, it has been reported that the group M Vpu protein is capable of both down-modulating CD4 and counteracting BST-2/tetherin restriction, while the group O Vpu cannot antagonize tetherin. This led us to investigate if group O, and the related group P viruses, possess functional anti-tetherin activities in Vpu or another viral protein, and to further map the residues required for group M Vpu to counteract human tetherin.

Results

We found a lack of activity against human tetherin for both the Vpu and Nef proteins from group O and P viruses. Furthermore, we found no evidence of anti-human tetherin activity in a fully infectious group O proviral clone, ruling out the possibility of an alternative anti-tetherin factor in this virus. Interestingly, an activity against primate tetherins was retained in the Nef proteins from both a group O and a group P virus. By making chimeras between a functional group M and non-functional group O Vpu protein, we were able to map the first 18 amino acids of group M Vpu as playing an essential role in the ability of the protein to antagonize human tetherin. We further demonstrated the importance of residue alanine-18 for the group M Vpu activity. This residue lies on a diagonal face of conserved alanines in the TM domain of the protein, and is necessary for specific Vpu-tetherin interactions.

Conclusions

The absence of human specific anti-tetherin activities in HIV-1 group O and P suggests a failure of these viruses to adapt to human hosts, which may have limited their spread.
Lipid Rafts Control P2X3 Receptor Distribution and Function in Trigeminal Sensory Neurons of a Transgenic Migraine Mouse Model
Authors: Gnanasekaran Aswini , Sundukova Mayya , van den Maagdenberg Arn MJM , Fabbretti Elsa , Nistri Andrea
Published: September 2011

Background:

A genetic knock-in mouse model expressing the R192Q mutation of the α1-subunit of the CaV2.1 channels frequently found in patients with familial hemiplegic migraine shows functional upregulation of ATP-sensitive P2X3 receptors of trigeminal sensory neurons that transduce nociceptive inputs to the brainstem. In an attempt to understand the basic mechanisms linked to the upregulation of P2X3 receptor activity, we investigated the influence of the lipid domain of these trigeminal sensory neurons on receptor compartmentalization and function.

Results:

Knock-in neurons were strongly enriched with lipid rafts containing a larger fraction of P2X3 receptors at membrane level. Pretreatment with the CaV2.1 channel blocker ω-agatoxin significantly decreased the lipid raft content of KI membranes. After pharmacologically disrupting the cholesterol component of lipid rafts, P2X3 receptors became confined to non-raft compartments and lost their functional potentiation typically observed in KI neurons with whole-cell patch-clamp recording. Following cholesterol depletion, all P2X3 receptor currents decayed more rapidly and showed delayed recovery indicating that alteration of the lipid raft milieu reduced the effectiveness of P2X3 receptor signalling and changed their desensitization process. Kinetic modeling could reproduce the observed data when slower receptor activation was simulated and entry into desensitization was presumed to be faster.

Conclusions:

The more abundant lipid raft compartment of knock-in neurons was enriched in P2X3 receptors that exhibited stronger functional responses. These results suggest that the membrane microenvironment of trigeminal sensory neurons is an important factor in determining sensitization of P2X3 receptors and could contribute to a migraine phenotype by enhancing ATP-mediated responses.
Chemerin activates fibroblast-like synoviocytes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kaneko Kayoko , Miyabe Yoshishige , Takayasu Aiko , Fukuda Shin , Miyabe Chie , Ebisawa Masashi , Yokoyama Waka , Watanabe Kaori , Imai Toshio , Muramoto Kenzo , Terashima Yuya , Sugihara Takahiko , Matsushima Kouji , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Nanki Toshihiro
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Chemerin is a chemotactic agonist identified as a ligand for ChemR23 that is expressed on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). In this study, we analyzed the expression of chemerin and ChemR23 in the synovium of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and the stimulatory effects of chemerin on fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) from RA patients.

Methods

Chemerin and ChemR23 expression in the RA synovium was ascertained by immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. Chemerin expression on cultured FLSs was analyzed by ELISA. ChemR23 expression on FLSs was determined by immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis. Cytokine production from FLSs was measured by ELISA. FLS cell motility was evaluated by utilizing a scrape motility assay. We also examined the stimulating effect of chemerin on the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK1/2), p38MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)1/2 and Akt, as well as on the degradation of regulator of NF-κB (IκBα) in FLSs, by Western blot analysis.

Results

Chemerin was expressed on endothelial cells and synovial lining and sublining cells. ChemR23 was expressed on macrophages, immature DCs and FLSs and a few mature DCs in the RA synovium. Chemerin and ChemR23 were highly expressed in the RA synovium compared with osteoarthritis. Chemerin and ChemR23 were expressed on unstimulated FLSs. TNF-α and IFN-γ upregulated chemerin production. Chemerin enhanced the production of IL-6, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 3 by FLSs, as well as increasing FLS motility. The stimulatory effects of chemerin on FLSs were mediated by activation of ERK1/2, p38MAPK and Akt, but not by JNK1/2. Degradation of IκB in FLSs was not promoted by chemerin stimulation. Inhibition of the ERK1/2, p38MAPK and Akt signaling pathways significantly suppressed chemerin-induced IL-6 production. Moreover, blockade of the p38MAPK and Akt pathways, but not the ERK1/2 pathway, inhibited chemerin-enhanced cell motility.

Conclusions

The interaction of chemerin and ChemR23 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of RA through the activation of FLSs.
Editorial: Developmental regulation of P-glycoprotein and HIV therapy: spare the thymus but spoil the child?
Authors: Krogstad Paul , Aldrovandi Grace
Published: September 2011

Discussion on impact of anti-HIV therapy on the thymus and limitations on the in vivo implications of Sleasman et al. report.
Development of a Numerical Tool for Design of the Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Tobatayeva A. , Mesbahi A. P. , Muzaparov M. , Mesbahi E.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes the use of Artificial Neural Networks in developing a design tool for calculating BHA (Bottom Hole Assembly) parameters. The program streamlines and simplifies BHA design calculations for a planned well curvature by calculating half-wave lengths using nomograms developed by Lubinski-Woods and Muzaparov. Nonlinear normalisation of data was applied on nomogram data to significantly improve accuracy of the modelling and design. The design data calculated by the program were compared with the real data and have been verified on deposits in the Aktobe region in Kazakhstan. It is concluded that the proposed tool provides more accurate results in a shorter time, allowing designers to compare and analyse the influence of design parameters on calculations of half-wave, loading and well curvature.
Geochemical Characteristics of Crude Oil and Oil-Source Correlation of the Paleogene “Red Bed” in the South Slope of the Dongying Depression, Bohai Bay Basin, China
Authors: Meng Jianghui , Liu Luofu , Jiang Zhenxue , Wang Ying , Gao Yongjin , Liu Shuhui
Published: September 2011

The Paleogene Red Bed in the South Slope of the Dongying Depression is a set of red clastic sediments of the lower section of 4th member of the Shahejie Formation and the Kongdian Formation, and is the alternative strata for oil and gas exploration in this area. The Red Bed crude oil of the South Slope of the Dongying Depression is divided into four types according to the assemblage characteristics of biomarkers from 17 oil sand samples and 3 crude oil samples. The Type I crude oil is generated from the source rocks of the lower section of 3rd member of the Shahejie Formation, with low phytane and gammacerane concentration, Ph/ n-C18<0.6, relatively high ratios of Ts/(Ts+Tm) (>0.38) and hopanes/steranes (>3.4), high diasteranes concentration, and low C35 homohopane index. The Type II crude oil could be derived from the source rocks of the upper section of 4th member of the Shahejie Formation with abnormal high phytane and gammacerane concentration, Ph/ n-C181, relatively low ratios of Ts/(Ts+Tm) (<0.38) and hopanes/steranes (<2.5), low diasteranes concentration, and high C35 homohopane index. The Type III crude oil is mixed oil consisting of the Type II crude oil charged in the early stage and the Type I crude oil charged in the late stage and mainly of the Type I crude oil. The Type IV crude oil is characterized by C29 sterane predominance and this feature has not been found in the crude oils and source rocks of the study area, therefore this type of oil is identified as a mixture of the Type II crude oil and an oil type from a shallow lake-swamp facies. The fault throw of oil transporting faults controls the distribution of crude oils with different genetic types, and the upthrown side of the faults is the favorable zone for the Red Bed oil and gas accumulation.
Seismic Geomorphology and Geometric Evolution of a Single Base-of-Slope Deepwater Channel in the near Seafloor of Alaminos Canyon, Northwestern Deep Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Jiang Shu , Henriksen Sverre , Weimer Paul
Published: September 2011

The main goal of this article is to investigate the seismic geomorphology and geometric evolution of the single base-of-slope deepwater channel within a depositional sequence in Alaminos Canyon area of northwestern deep Gulf of Mexico. High resolution 3D seismic data was used to characterize the stratigraphic architecture evolution of deepwater deposits within 300 milliseconds interval below the sea floor. The seismic geomorphologic feature of deepwater channel was fast interpreted by combining seismic cross sections and stratal slices rendered by domain transformation. The surface wrapping interpretation results of the deepwater channel indicate that the near seafloor channel evolved from earlier wider and straight channel to later relatively narrow and sinuous channel within a depositional sequence. The channel exhibits vertical aggrading pattern in updip confined setting and changes to appear lateral migrating pattern in downdip unconfined setting through time. The spatial and temporal evolution of this deepwater channel in this study represents the typical evolution of the channel in base-of-slope deepwater setting and can be used as analog to predict and characterize the deepwater hydrocarbon reservoir at exploration depth in this area or other similar settings around the world.
Characteristics of Later Different Reformation and its Significance in Occurrence of Multi-Energy Deposits in Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhao Hongge , Liu Chiyang , Wang Jianqiang , Gui Xiaojun , Qiao Jianxin , Wang Hairan
Published: September 2011

Ordos Basin, rich in multi-energy resources of oil, gas and uranium, is a depression basin within the Late Triassic-to-early Cretaceous craton, which overlapps on the Paleozoic craton basin. The basin started its later reformation in the Late Cretaceous, which is of significant importance to energy deposits. Few studies have, however, been focused on ages of the reformation and its characteristics. Based on the analysis of the regional geological settings and Cenozoic sedimentary structures, combined with published and newly developed fission track ages, the reformation was divided into five stages with various characters, including 1) regional uniform uplift stage (Late Cretaceous to Paleocene); 2) different uplift and subsidence stage (Eocene to Oligocene); 3) different uplift stage of the east and west of the basin (Early-Middle Miocene); 4) structural reverses of the east and west of the basin (Late-Miocene to Pliocene); and 5) the formation of loessial plateau and the development of the Yellow River (Quaternary). These stages are consistent with development of the regional tectonic settings, which is closely related to the subduction of the Pacific Block to Euro-Asian Block and the collision of Indian Block to Euro-Asian Block. It has been indicated that there are good correlations among the petroleum formation, migration and the mineralization ages and the reformation ages. The later structural uplift, on the one hand, caused the strata erosion and the destruction of the petroleum pools and also the dissipation of the oil and gas. On the other hand, it decreased the pressure causing the escape of the gas dissolved in water, which is helpful to formation of the complementary gas resource and the secondary petroleum pools. Meanwhile, the later uplift and the petroleum migration to the northeast enabled the organic and inorganic interaction between reducing fluid and ore-bearing fluid, which is preferable for uranium deposits. The uplifted and eroded Mesozoic strata could be a new provenance, resulting in new mineralization and overlapped enrichment of uranium deposits.
Formation Mechanisms of Paleogene Igneous Rock Plays in Huimin Sag, Eastern China
Authors: Chang Xiangchun , Han Zuozhen , Li Zengxue , Yang Shipeng , Chen Qingchun
Published: September 2011

In order to understand the impact of volcanism and intrusion on the source rocks, how the pores and fissures formed and how the hydrocarbon was trapped, this study focuses on the formation mechanisms of the igneous rock plays in the Huimin Sag based on geochemical and lithological analyses and typical anatomy. The results indicate that volcanism enhanced the formation of Es3 source rocks with high TOC (3.41–5.12%) in the distribution areas of igneous rocks. Volcanism caused an abnormal heat field and accelerated the maturation of hydrocarbon source rocks, leading to a higher heat gradient (3.4–4.4 °C /100 m), increase of HC and chloroform bitumen “A” contents, earlier hydrocarbon generation threshold and higher biomarker maturity closer to the igneous rocks. The primary fractures, vesicular structures, inter-breccia pores, intergranular pores, intercrystal and intracrystal pores are primarily-formed. The structural fractures and corrosion space are secondarily formed. Rising fluid pressure associated with volcanism accelerated the hydrocarbons expulsion. Igneous body can act as a migration pathway or a seal constrained by its physical property. Volcanism in the Huimin Sag produces diaper arch trap, overlap trap in volcano slope and drape anticline trap on the volcanic cone. Five models for igneous rocks plays in the Huimin Sag, such as volcaniclastic play with outside source rocks, diabase plays with interior and exterior source rocks, basalt plays with exterior and mixed source rocks are proposed.
Types and Models of Coal-Deposit Exploration in China
Authors: Cao Daiyong , Lin Zhongyue , Wei Yingchun , Li Xiaoming , Zhang Jikun , Zheng Zhihong
Published: September 2011

This paper puts forward the concept of exploration types and exploration models that can be used to find coal deposits. These were developed by taking into account the complexity and spatial differences of geological and geographical conditions of China's coalfield. ‘Exploration types’ here refers to groups of coal deposits similar in terms of the basic features of occurrence of the coal seams and the degree of difficulty of the exploration. ‘Exploration models’ here refers to generalizations and summations of advantageous geological conditions, effective technical exploration methods, and sound exploration programs and layout schemes suitable to different exploration types on the basis of the regularity of the occurrence of coal. Depending upon several factors that determine the degree of difficulty of exploration, such as regional geological conditions, the physical geographic environment, and the level of geological prospecting work performed, exploration for coal deposits can be divided into four types: (1) areas beneath and peripheral to old and existing coal mining zones in eastern China; (2) areas hidden by huge thick Cenozoic cover in eastern and central China; (3) geologically complex areas in eastern and southern China; and (4) geographically and geomorphologically complex areas in western China. In view of the different purposes and tasks involved in exploration, exploration models that are suited to different exploration types have been established, including the application of exploration methods, arrangement of exploration programs, and exploration engineering techniques. New exploration types and models promote the scientific and systematic features of coal geological exploratory engineering.