bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Method for numerical integration of rapidly oscillating functions in diffraction theory
Authors: Mikš Antonín , Novák Jiří , Novák Pavel
Published: November 2009

The quadrature of general, highly oscillatory integrals is a relatively complicated computational problem that occurs in a wide range of practical applications, e.g. in physics, chemistry, and image analysis. It is often necessary to use a high number of nodal points with classical quadrature formulas in order to achieve a required accuracy of numerical integration of rapidly oscillating functions. However, an increase in integration points leads to a larger computational time. Our work describes and analyses a method for numerical integration of rapidly oscillating functions, which enables to obtain the required accuracy with a smaller number of nodal points than classical integration rules and with a relatively simple integration formula. The proposed method is generally suitable for integration of rapidly oscillating functions in various applications. The method is demonstrated in examples of calculation of the diffraction integral in optics, where the integrand is often a rapidly oscillatory function. The results can be readily adapted to similar problems from other fields. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled synthesis of responsive hydrogel nanostructures via microcontact printing and ATRP
Authors: Chirra Hariharasudhan D. , Biswal Dipti , Hilt J. Zach
Published: November 2009

Surfaces that are spatially functionalized with intelligent hydrogels, especially at the micro‐ and nanoscale, are of high interest in the diagnostic and therapeutic fields. Conventional methods of the semiconductor industry have been successfully employed for the patterning of hydrogels for various applications, but methods for fabricating precise 3 D patterns of hydrogels at the micro‐ and nanoscale over material surfaces remain limited. Herein, microcontact printing (µCP) followed by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) was applied as a platform to synthesize temperature responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) hydrogels with varied network structures (e.g. different molecular weight crosslinkers) over gold surfaces. The XY control of the hydrogels was achieved using µCP, and the Z (thickness) control was achieved using ATRP. The controlled growth and the responsive behavior of hydrogels to temperature stimuli were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The results demonstrate that this platform allows for the controlled growth of hydrogel nanostructures using the controlled ATRP mechanism. It is also shown that the molecular weight of the crosslinker affects the rate of hydrogel growth. These PNIPAAm‐based crosslinked hydrogel patterns were also demonstrated to have a temperature‐dependent swelling response. Using this technique, it is possible to synthesize responsive hydrogel patterns over various surfaces for potential applications in the biomedical field. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasma protein C is a useful clinical marker for hepatic veno‐occlusive disease (VOD) in stem cell transplantation
Authors: Iguchi Akihiro , Kobayashi Ryoji , Kaneda Makoto , Kobayashi Kunihiko
Published: November 2009

Background

Hepatic veno‐occlusive disease (VOD) is one of the most serious complications in stem cell transplantation (SCT). Although plasma protein C activity decreases in VOD after SCT, the timeframe of plasma protein C activity decreases during SCT is not known.

Procedure

We examined levels of plasma protein C serially during the course of SCT to determine the critical level and risk factors for VOD.

Results

Of 151 children who received SCT, 12 of them (7.9%) developed VOD. The mean minimum protein C activity in patients with VOD was significantly lower compared to that in patients without VOD (P < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the critical plasma protein C activity (cut‐off point) for VOD was identified to be 34.5% with high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (83.3%), and the reduction of plasma protein C below the cut‐off level (day +6.50 ± 2.43) was observed mostly prior to the onset of VOD (day +7.33 ± 2.64). The patients receiving melphalan in conditioning were found to be at high risk for VOD (P = 0.003). Among the melphalan containing regimens, melphalan + carboplatin + etoposide was a significant risk factor for depression of plasma protein C (P = 0.037).

Conclusion

Plasma protein C level was a useful parameter of VOD after SCT, and activity below 34.5% was critical for VOD. The use of melphalan in conditioning causes a high risk for VOD. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:437–443. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital rubella pneumonitis complicated by Pneumocystis jiroveci infection with positive long term respiratory outcome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Sanchez M.O. , Chang A.B.
Published: November 2009

Rubella remains to be a significant illness in the developing countries because of limited access to immunizations. In congenital rubella syndrome, lung involvement becomes evident within the few months of life, as a manifestation of the “late onset rubella syndrome.” The lungs and other organs become involved secondary to immunopathologic mechanisms and immunodeficiency predisposes affected patients to opportunistic pathogens. We report the clinical, respiratory and immunologic data of a young boy who developed rubella pneumonitis and concomitant infection with Pneumocystis jiroveci. Despite the complicated clinical course, the child survived. At follow‐up he has a normal pulmonary examination, mild hyperinflation only on his chest radiograph, normal immunology and normal respiratory reactance and resistance. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1235–1239. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea: A potential late consequence of respiratory syncitial virus bronchiolitis
Authors: Snow Ayelet , Dayyat Ehab , Montgomery‐Downs Hawley E. , Kheirandish‐Gozal Leila , Gozal David
Published: November 2009

Study Objectives

To examine the hypothesis that children who suffered from severe respiratory syncitial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis during infancy may be at higher risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) later in childhood.

Methods

Survey of Kosair Children's Hospital medical records allowed for identification of potential candidates for the study. Twenty‐one randomly selected children (mean age ± SD: 5.2 ± 1.5 years) with a history of verified RSV‐induced bronchiolitis during their first year of life underwent overnight sleep study (NPSG). Children recruited from the general population with no history of RSV bronchiolitis served as a control group. After matching for age, gender, ethnicity, gestational age at birth, body mass index (BMI) z scores, household cigarette smoking, history of asthma and allergies, 63 control subjects (mean age ± SD: 5.1 ± 0.7 years) were also studied.

Results

Children who had RSV bronchiolitis as infants had significantly higher obstructive apnea/hypopnea index compared to controls (2.3 ± 1.9 vs. 0.6 ± 0.8 /hr total sleep time (TST); P < 0.05). In addition, significantly higher respiratory arousal indices were apparent among children with previous RSV bronchiolitis compared to controls (1.3 ± 1.0 vs. 0.1 ± 0.2 /hr TST; P < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the groups in the lowest SpO2, ETCO2, and sleep indices.

Conclusions

RSV bronchiolitis may contribute to the pathophysiology of OSA in vulnerable children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1186–1191. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term pulmonary outcome after meconium ileus in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Kappler Matthias , Feilcke Maria , Schröter Christian , Kraxner Angelika , Griese Matthias
Published: November 2009

Objective

To identify cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with a history of meconium ileus (MI) and to compare long‐term outcome of these patients with CF patients without MI.

Patients

370 CF patients who were treated at the Munich CF centre in 2006, mean age 17.1 years (range: 0–48), were classified with regard to a history of MI.

Methods

Retrospective chart analysis regarding history of MI, age, and lung function and first detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the primary outcome variables.

Results

We identified 60 patients with MI (16.2% of all patients with a mean age of 16.2 ± 9 years (0–41) who did not differ in age from patients without MI (17.3 ± 10; 0–48), whereas the mean age of CF diagnosis was different (0.4 vs. 21.8 months, P < 0.001). Cross sectional analysis of best Forced expiratory volume (FEV% predicted) in 2006 was not different between patients with MI (89 ± 23%, 17–134) and those without (88 ± 27%, 21–148, P = 0.73). Longitudinal analysis using FEV1 values of more than 9,000 lung function tests also showed no difference in FEV1 although first detection of P. aeruginosa in patients with MI was significantly earlier.

Conclusion

MI was associated with hospitalization, surgery, and early infection with P. aeruginosa. However, the long‐term outcome of CF patients with or without MI was the same. This finding might be explained by the considerably earlier CF diagnosis in CF patients with MI including the benefit of an early initiation of appropriate CF therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1201–1206. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tonsillar size in 2‐ to 14‐year‐old children with and without snoring
Authors: Kaditis Athanasios G. , Lianou Loukia , Hatzinikolaou Souzana , Kalampouka Efthimia , Gartagani‐Panayiotopoulou Polytimi , Zintzaras Elias , Chrousos George
Published: November 2009

Background

Few investigations have assessed tonsillar size in children of variable age, sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) status and degree of adiposity. This study evaluated the size of tonsils in young and older, lean and obese children, without or with snoring.

Methods

Children attending the Emergency Department or Pulmonology Clinic were recruited and tonsillar size was scored 1–4. Snoring ≥1 night/week was considered diagnostic of SDB and body mass index z‐score ≥1.645 was defined as obesity. Age was analyzed as dichotomous variable (≤7 years old vs. >7 years old).

Results

362 children (2–14 years old) were recruited; 78 (21.5%) were obese and 108 (29.8%) had SDB. SDB—but not age or obesity—was significantly related to tonsillar size (P = 0.001). There was not enough evidence to support the presence of interactions between SDB and age or obesity regarding the size of tonsils (P = 0.157 and P = 0.978, respectively). Young subjects without SDB had larger tonsils than older subjects without SDB (1.9 ± 0.7 vs. 1.7 ± 0.8; P = 0.017), whereas age did not affect tonsillar size in children with SDB (P = 0.78).

Conclusions

Young and older children with SDB have similar tonsillar size. In contrast, older subjects without snoring have smaller tonsils than young subjects without snoring. Tonsillar enlargement in children with SDB probably occurs in early childhood without change in older age. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1216–1222. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mediastinal gastroenteric cyst in a neonate containing respiratory‐type epithelium and pancreatic tissue
Authors: Anagnostou Eleftherios , Soubasi Vasiliki , Agakidou Eleni , Papakonstantinou Christos , Antonitsis Nikolaos , Leontsini Maria
Published: November 2009

Mediastinal gastroenteric cyst is an uncommon congenital malformation and a distinct histopathological entity within the family of foregut duplication cysts. This lesion is mainly encountered in neonates and infants. Histologically, it is characterized by double‐layered smooth muscle wall and gastric lining mucosa. We report on a case of a 2‐day‐old girl, with a posterior mediastinal cystic mass associated with T3–T4 hemivertebrae, presenting with severe respiratory distress. The cyst was multilocular, surgically removed, and histopathologic analysis revealed that it was of gastroenteric type. However, in numerous areas of the lesion, respiratory‐type epithelium was observed, as well as pancreatic tissue. After removal of the lesion the patient made an uneventful recovery and shows no signs of long‐term pulmonary sequelae. We failed to demonstrate in the available literature the presence of this variable epithelial lining within a single mediastinal foregut cyst. In addition, pancreatic tissue within an intrathoracic enteric cyst has been reported only twice. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:1240–1243. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Theoretical phonon dispersions in monolayers and multilayers of hexagonal boron‐nitride
Authors: Michel K. H. , Verberck B.
Published: November 2009

Starting from an empirical force constant model of valence interactions and calculating by Ewald's method the electrostatic force constants, we derive the dynamical matrix for a monolayer and for multilayer systems of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN). Solution of the secular problem leads to the corresponding phonon dispersion relations. The interplay between valence forces and Coulomb forces is discussed. A comparison with previous results on graphene and graphene multilayers is made. Our spectra on the h‐BN monolayer are rather similar to previous ab initio theory results. Comparison is also made with Raman and infrared experimental results.
Study of the role of Fe based catalysts on the growth of B‐doped SWCNTs synthesized by CVD
Authors: Daothong S. , Parjanne J. , Kauppinen E. I. , Valkeapää M. , Pichler T. , Singjai P. , Ayala P.
Published: November 2009

Although boron doped multi‐walled nanotubes have been synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods, the synthesis of single‐walled species was achieved only recently. In comparison to their carbon counterparts synthesized by similar methods, these nanotubes grow in relatively low amounts due to several experimental difficulties. On the other hand, the use of iron containing catalysts supported in porous materials is one of the most efficient ways to produce single walled pristine carbon nanotubes and several methods have been proposed to enhance this growth. In this contribution we have studied the possibilities to enhance the growth of boron doped single‐walled nanotubes using a triisopropyl borate non‐diluted precursor in a high‐vacuum CVD system. The catalyst composition and pretreatment, as well as the precursor‐feed have been studied in detail. An additional study of the Raman response our material has been made in order to prove the implicit changes with electrons and phonons upon doping.
Structural perfection of InGaN layers and its relation to photoluminescence
Authors: Liliental‐Weber Z. , Yu K. M. , Hawkridge M. , Bedair S. , Berman A.E. , Emara A. , Khanal D. R. , Wu J. , Domagala J. , Bak‐Misiuk J.
Published: November 2009

The relation between structural perfection and optical properties of InGaN with 10% In are discussed. Transmission Electron Microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry measurements show that only strained layers with a thickness not exceeding 100 nm are defect free and In concentration is lower than the nominal value. Extension of layer thickness leads to layer sequestration into sublayers with different In contents and the formation of planar defects as a result of layer relaxation. In concentration in such sublayers reach and in some cases exceed the nominal concentration. A single band edge photoluminescence peak is observed only for the thinnest layer. Samples with larger film thickness showed multiple PL peaks corresponding to layers with different In content. Much higher In content would be required to explain the presence of some PL peaks, suggesting that some PL peaks originate from the defective areas of the film. This was confirmed by cathodoluminescence studies performed on the same samples used earlier for TEM studies. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Three‐Dimensional Quantitative Structure‐Activity Relationship Study of Antitumor 2‐Formylpyridine Thiosemicarbazones Derivatives as Inhibitors of Ribonucleotide Reductase
Authors: Ishiki Hamilton Mitsugu , do Amaral Antonia T.
Published: November 2009

In order to extend previous SAR and QSAR studies, 3D‐QSAR analysis has been performed using CoMFA and CoMSIA approaches applied to a set of 39 α‐(N)‐heterocyclic carboxaldehydes thiosemicarbazones with their inhibitory activity values (IC50) evaluated against ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) of H.Ep.‐2 cells (human epidermoid carcinoma), taken from selected literature. Both rigid and field alignment methods, taking the unsubstituted 2‐formylpyridine thiosemicarbazone in its syn conformation as template, have been used to generate multiple predictive CoMFA and CoMSIA models derived from training sets and validated with the corresponding test sets. Acceptable predictive correlation coefficients (Q$\rm{ {_{cv}^{2}}}$ from 0.360 to 0.609 for CoMFA and Q$\rm{ {_{cv}^{2}}}$ from 0.394 to 0.580 for CoMSIA models) with high fitted correlation coefficients (r2 from 0.881 to 0.981 for CoMFA and r2 from 0.938 to 0.993 for CoMSIA models) and low standard errors (s from 0.135 to 0.383 for CoMFA and s from 0.098 to 0.240 for CoMSIA models) were obtained. More precise CoMFA and CoMSIA models have been derived considering the subset of thiosemicarbazones (TSC) substituted only at 5‐position of the pyridine ring (n=22). Reasonable predictive correlation coefficients (Q$\rm{ {_{cv}^{2}}}$ from 0.486 to 0.683 for CoMFA and Q$\rm{ {_{cv}^{2}}}$ from 0.565 to 0.791 for CoMSIA models) with high fitted correlation coefficients (r2 from 0.896 to 0.997 for CoMFA and r2 from 0.991 to 0.998 for CoMSIA models) and very low standard errors (s from 0.040 to 0.179 for CoMFA and s from 0.029 to 0.068 for CoMSIA models) were obtained. The stability of each CoMFA and CoMSIA models was further assessed by performing bootstrapping analysis. For the two sets the generated CoMSIA models showed, in general, better statistics than the corresponding CoMFA models. The analysis of CoMFA and CoMSIA contour maps suggest that a hydrogen bond acceptor near the nitrogen of the pyridine ring can enhance inhibitory activity values. This observation agrees with literature data, which suggests that the nitrogen pyridine lone pairs can complex with the iron ion leading to species that inhibits RNR. The derived CoMFA and CoMSIA models contribute to understand the structural features of this class of TSC as antitumor agents in terms of steric, electrostatic, hydrophobic and hydrogen bond donor and hydrogen bond acceptor fields as well as to the rational design of this key enzyme inhibitors.
Vertices of given degree in series‐parallel graphs
Authors: Drmota Michael , Giménez Omer , Noy Marc
Published: November 2009

We show that the numbers of vertices of a given degree k ≥ 1 in several kinds of series‐parallel labeled graphs of size n satisfy a central limit theorem with mean and variance proportional to n, and quadratic exponential tail estimates. We further prove a corresponding theorem for the number of nodes of degree two in labeled planar graphs. The proof method is based on generating functions and singularity analysis. In particular, we need systems of equations for multivariate generating functions and transfer results for singular representations of analytic functions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2010
Smart Magnetic Fluorescent Nanoparticle Imaging Probes to Monitor MicroRNAs
Authors: Hwang Do Won , Song In Chan , Lee Dong Soo , Kim Soonhag
Published: November 2009

An imaging system that can be used to evaluate the expression levels of microRNAs during neuronal development can provide noninvasive information for investigating a variety of biological phenomena related to microRNAs (miRNAs, miRs). Herein, the development of a novel imaging platform to monitor intracellular miR124a during neuronal differentiation is reported using rhodamine‐coated cobalt ferrite magnetic fluorescent (MF) nanoparticles linked to a quenching molecular system containing an miR124a binding sequence (MF‐miR124a beacon). During neuronal differentiation, in vitro fluorescence signals of the MF‐miR124a beacon are significantly increased under conditions where miR124a is highly expressed, and dramatically return to the original quenched fluorescence after anti‐miR124a treatment. In vivo fluorescence images show enhanced fluorescence signals in mice with P19 cells within a poly‐L‐lactic acid scaffold after induction of neuronal differentiation. In addition, magnetic resonance (MR) images provide in vivo tracking of cells containing the MF‐miR124a beacon. These studies represent the first step toward the use of nanotechnological imaging of mature miRNA, and this technique could be used for cellular tracking with a MR imaging system as well as for simultaneous monitoring of the miRNA expression pattern in vivo.
Transplantation of Embryonic Neural Stem/Precursor Cells Overexpressing BM88/Cend1 Enhances the Generation of Neuronal Cells in the Injured Mouse Cortex
Authors: Makri Georgia , Lavdas Alexandros A. , Katsimpardi Lida , Charneau Pierre , Thomaidou Dimitra , Matsas Rebecca
Published: November 2009

The intrinsic inability of the central nervous system to efficiently repair traumatic injuries renders transplantation of neural stem/precursor cells (NPCs) a promising approach towards repair of brain lesions. In this study, NPCs derived from embryonic day 14.5 mouse cortex were genetically modified via transduction with a lentiviral vector to overexpress the neuronal lineage-specific regulator BM88/Cend1 that coordinates cell cycle exit and differentiation of neuronal precursors. BM88/Cend1-overexpressing NPCs exhibiting enhanced differentiation into neurons in vitro were transplanted in a mouse model of acute cortical injury and analyzed in comparison with control NPCs. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that a smaller proportion of BM88/Cend1-overexpressing NPCs, as compared with control NPCs, expressed the neural stem cell marker nestin 1 day after transplantation, while the percentage of nestin-positive cells was significantly reduced thereafter in both types of cells, being almost extinct 1 week post-grafting. Both types of cells did not proliferate up to 4 weeks in vivo, thus minimizing the risk of tumorigenesis. In comparison with control NPCs, Cend1-overexpressing NPCs generated more neurons and less glial cells 1 month after transplantation in the lesioned cortex whereas the majority of graft-derived neurons were identified as GABAergic interneurons. Furthermore, transplantation of Cend1-overexpressing NPCs resulted in a marked reduction of astrogliosis around the lesioned area as compared to grafts of control NPCs. Our results suggest that transplantation of Cend1-overexpressing NPCs exerts beneficial effects on tissue regeneration by enhancing the number of generated neurons and restricting the formation of astroglial scar, in a mouse model of cortical brain injury.
Some enzymatic/nonenzymatic antioxidants as potential stress biomarkers of trichloroethylene, heavy metal mixture, and ethyl alcohol in rat tissues
Authors: Tabrez Shams , Ahmad Masood
Published: November 2009

Enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants serve as an important biological defense against environmental pollutants. Various enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants as a stress biomarker in liver and kidney of rat were investigated. The antioxidant enzymes that were analyzed included superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase. Levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), as well as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were also measured in homogenates of the liver and kidney of the treated animals to determine oxidative stress induced by trichloroethylene (TCE), ethyl alcohol, and heavy metal mixture (H.M.M) individually and in different combinations. An increase up to the extent of 382% in malonaldehyde, a marker of LPO, was recorded in almost all the treatment groups in both the tissues. Similarly, a rise of 218% in GST activity was also recorded in kidney of TCE‐treated animals. Although H.M.M ingestion resulted in significant change of 125% in SOD activity of hepatic tissue, the level of GR was increased by 93% in the renal tissue of the exposed rats. Solitary dose of alcohol in general did not show a significant change. Moreover, the changes in the levels of antioxidants were much more prominent when these toxicants were given in combination rather than alone. Overall, these results demonstrate the changes in the levels of antioxidant enzymes and GSH system, as well as alterations in the LPO and H2O2 levels as a result of test toxicants. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2010.
Local Soft Tissue Compression Enhances Fracture Healing in a Rabbit Fibula
Authors: Morr Simon , Chisena Ernest C. , Tomin Emre , Mangino Michael , Lane Joseph M.
Published: November 2009

Local soft tissue compression of fractures enhances fracture healing. The mechanism remains uncertain. Past studies have focused on intermittent soft tissue compression. We report a preliminary study assessing the relationship between constant soft tissue compression and enhanced fracture healing in an osteotomy model designed to minimize confounding variables. Fibulae of nine New Zealand white rabbits were bilaterally osteotomized, openly stabilized, and fitted with spandex stockinets. Soft tissue at the osteotomy site was unilaterally compressed using a deforming element (load = 26 mmHg). The contralateral side was saved as the control and was not compressed. Osteotomies were monitored with weekly radiographs. All fibulae in both groups were healed 6 weeks postoperatively. Micro-CT analysis of bone mineral density (BMD) and bone volume (BV) was then performed on both the experimental and control sides. Radiographic measurement of transverse callus-to-shaft ratios (TCSR) was compared. BMD of the experimental callus was greater than the noncompressed controls. BV and TCSR were not different between controls and experimental osteotomies. Constant local soft tissue compression produced significant increases in BMD, but not in BV or transverse callus size, indicating significant measurable increases in callus composition without significant change in gross dimensions. Our experimental design minimizes confounding factors, such as micromotion, immobilization, and altered venous flow, suggesting that these are not the primary mechanisms for fracture healing enhancement. Further studies with more animals and study groups are necessary to confirm efficacy and identify optimal compression pressures and schedules.
Solvothermal Synthesis of Ternary Sulfides of Sb2 − xBi
x
S3(x = 0.4, 1) with 3D Flower-Like Architectures
Authors: Sun Jiquan , Shen Xiaoping , Guo Lijun , Wang Guoxiu , Park Jinsoo , Wang Kun
Published: November 2009

Flower-like nanostructures of Sb2 − x
Bi
x
S3(x = 0.4, 1.0) were successfully prepared using both antimony diethyldithiocarbamate [Sb(DDTC)3] and bismuth diethyldithiocarbamate [Bi(DDTC)3] as precursors under solvothermal conditions at 180 °C. The prepared Sb2 − x
Bi
x
S3 with flower-like 3D architectures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The flower-like architectures, with an average diameter of ~4 μm, were composed of single-crystalline nanorods with orthorhombic structures. The optical absorption properties of the Sb2 − x
Bi
x
S3 nanostructures were investigated by UV–Visible spectroscopy, and the results indicate that the Sb2 − x
Bi
x
S3 compounds are semiconducting with direct band gaps of 1.32 and 1.30 eV for x = 0.4 and 1.0, respectively. On the basis of the experimental results, a possible growth mechanism for the flower-like Sb2 − x
Bi
x
S3 nanostructures is suggested.
Combined Treatment with Dif1stat® and Diet Reduce Plasma Lipid Indicators of Moderate Hypercholesterolemia More Effectively than Diet Alone: A Randomized Trial in Parallel Groups
Authors: Stefanutti Claudia , Mazza Fabio , Vivenzio Antonio , Di Giacomo Serafina , Perrone Giuseppina , Serra Mariarosaria , Bucci Antonello
Published: November 2009

An open‐labeled randomized trial with parallel groups was carried out to study the effects of Dif1stat® (Monascus purpureus–Linear aliphatic alcohols–Niacin) in the treatment of primary moderate hypercholesterolemia. The trial lasted 8 months. The patients, males and females, were assigned to two groups: A (#130), treated with diet, and B (#110) submitted to diet + Dif1stat®. After 4 months, group A did not show significant changes in Total cholesterol (TC), LDL‐cholesterol (LDLC), HDL‐cholesterol (HDLC) or non‐HDL‐cholesterol (non‐HDLC). The same group, showed a reduction in TC (–22%), LDLC (–30%) and non‐HDLC (–27%) after 8 months (P ≤ 0.001). After 4 months, TC (–21.3%), LDLC (–29%), and non‐HDLC (–26%) were significantly lowered in group B (P ≤ 0.001). In group B, TC, LDLC and non‐HDLC showed a further reduction after 8 months: –29.4, –38 and –37%, respectively (P ≤ 0.001). Even triglycerides (TG) decreased significantly (–33%) (P ≤ 0.001). After 8 months, group B showed a significant reduction of TG (–33%) (P ≤ 0.001), when compared to group A. Some safety parameters were significantly reduced in both groups: AST and γ‐GT in group A after 4 and 8 months, as well as ALT, AST and γ‐GT in group B after 8 months (P ≤ 0.001). Dif1stat®, given with a suitable diet, was well tolerated in the long‐term and induced an anti‐atherogenic plasma lipid and lipoprotein profile, in patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia.
Lateral shelf acetabuloplasty in the treatment of Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease: Improving mid-term outcome in severely deformed hips
Authors: Ghanem Ismat , Haddad Elias , Haidar Rachid , Haddad-Zebouni Suha , Aoun Noël , Dagher Fernand , Kharrat Khalil
Published: November 2009

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of lateral shelf acetabuloplasty in Legg–Calvé–Perthes (LCP) hips classically associated with poor prognosis.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 30 consecutive pediatric patients (average age 8.6 years) presenting with a severe and progressive form of LCP disease, with (16 hips) or without (14 hips) femoral varus osteotomy (FVO), and treated by lateral shelf acetabuloplasty. Shelf was done on hips presenting an aspherical incongruency with flattening, subluxation, and lack of femoral head coverage, as demonstrated on pre-operative radiographs and arthrography. All patients were reexamined at an average follow-up of 9.5 years (range 5.2–12 years). Clinical, radiological, and computed tomography scan evaluations were undertaken. Stulberg and Mose classifications were applied as radiological indicators of prognosis. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t test and the Pearson correlation test with variance analysis for repetitive measures.

Results

At the last follow-up, all patients were pain free and had normal or almost normal hip motion. Twenty-seven patients are now able to walk normally or with a slight limp. Eighteen hips are classified as Stulberg 1 or 2, and 18 hips are classified as Mose 1 or 2. The average neck-shaft angle is 127°. A statistically significant improvement in the majority of radiographic parameters was found. There was no statistically significant worsening of leg length discrepancy following the procedure. The scanographic study found neither offset nor migration of the shelf in any of the hips. The average coronal and anteroposterior length of the shelf was 9.9 and 25 mm, respectively. A borderline positive correlation was found between Wiberg angle improvement and young age at the time of surgery. There was no statistically significant difference between hips that underwent shelf procedures alone and those in which it was combined with FVO.

Conclusion

Lateral shelf acetabuloplasty improves the outcome of hips with severe LCP. The combined procedure insures a better and lasting coverage and remodeling of the femoral head, while preserving acetabular roof growth.
The use of 2-octylcyanoacrylate (Dermabond®) for the treatment of nail bed injuries in children: Results of a prospective series of 30 patients
Authors: Langlois Jean , Thevenin-Lemoine Camille , Rogier Amélie , Elkaim Marc , Abelin-Genevois Kariman , Vialle Raphaël
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The use of 2-octylcyanoacrylate (OCA) has been evaluated for the treatment of nail bed injuries in adults. We propose to validate this technique in a continuous paediatric population of 30 children.

Methods

Patients with nail bed injuries associated with displaced fractures of the distal phalanx were excluded from the study. However, parcellar fractures of the tuft were included. After removal of the nail, wound detersion and anatomic positioning of the nail bed was done and maintained under the nail plate using a single dose of OCA. Follow-up evaluation was done at day 7 and 1 and 3 months.

Results

The mean delay between the trauma and the surgery was 13.5 h. The nail bed lesion was a single transversal wound in 27 cases. A pulpar wound was associated in 22 cases. At 3 months control (final follow-up), no pain or functional impairment was noted. The cosmetic result was excellent for the patient and his family in 30 out of 31 cases. It was excellent for the surgeon in 25 cases and good in six cases.

Conclusions

In the OCA technique, meticulous primary detersion and exact anatomic positioning of the damaged nail bed is mandatory before applying the cyanoacrylate adhesive. In our experience, we found that the OCA technique provided a fast and safe result in nail bed lesions. The final cosmetic appearance, function and patient satisfaction were good in our series. In these lesions, discomfort and inconvenience associated with suture removal could be avoided by the use of OCA.
The Russian economy and the current crisis
Authors: Drobyshevskaya Tatiana , Zhavoronkov Sergey
Published: November 2009

The article describes the measures taken by government officials to aid Russia's economy in emerging from the depths of the financial crisis. The authors describe the complexity of this task by focussing on how objective policy-making is complicated by the personal interests of Russian political and business leaders. The political considerations involved in Russian recapitalisation schemes serves as the main political focus in the creation of a desirable recovery strategy. Elements crucial to the recovery of the Russian economy are discussed, including government efforts to support medium and small business, and the unique Russian strategy of dealing with system-forming enterprises.
Imagerie et fertilité, quelles conséquences pour l’andrologue ? Imagerie du scrotum vue par le radiologue
Authors: Puttemans T.
Published: November 2009

L’échographie scrotale fournit à l’andrologue des informations iconographiques, susceptibles de changer fondamentalement la prise en charge du patient hypofertile. La recherche de signes d’obstruction canalaire, la détection de pathologies testiculaires infracliniques et l’évaluation de la perfusion testiculaire sont les véritables challenges pour le radiologue. L’échographie du contenu scrotal doit être proposée à tout patient qui consulte pour infertilité, au même titre que le bilan biologique et spermiologique, car elle oriente le diagnostic clinique, permet la détection de pathologie occulte et influence la stratégie thérapeutique.
Solitary waves for nonlinear Klein–Gordon equations coupled with Born–Infeld theory
Authors: Yu Yong
Published: November 2009

We consider the nonlinear Klein–Gordon equations coupled with the Born–Infeld theory under the electrostatic solitary wave ansatz. The existence of the least-action solitary waves is proved in both bounded smooth domain case and

\mathbb{R}^{3}

case. In particular, for bounded smooth domain case, we study the asymptotic behaviors and profiles of the positive least-action solitary waves with respect to the frequency parameter
ω
. We show that when
κ
and
ω
are suitably large, the least-action solitary waves admit only one local maximum point. When

\omega \rightarrow \infty

, the point-condensation phenomenon occurs if we consider the normalized least-action solitary waves.
Positive solutions for the p-Laplacian involving critical and supercritical nonlinearities with zeros
Authors: Massa Eugenio , Lorca Sebastián , Iturriaga Leonelo
Published: November 2009

In this paper we show the existence of multiple solutions to a class of quasilinear elliptic equations when the continuous nonlinearity has a positive zero and it satisfies a
p
-linear condition only at zero. In particular, our approach allows us to consider superlinear, critical and supercritical nonlinearities.
Convergence to self-similarity for the Boltzmann equation for strongly inelastic Maxwell molecules
Authors: Terraneo E. , Toscani G. , Furioli G. , Pulvirenti A.
Published: November 2009

We prove propagation of regularity, uniformly in time, for the scaled solutions of the inelastic Maxwell model for any value of the coefficient of restitution. The result follows from the uniform in time control of the tails of the Fourier transform of the solution, normalized in order to have constant energy. By standard arguments this implies the convergence of the scaled solution towards the stationary state in Sobolev and

L^{1}

norms in the case of regular initial data as well as the convergence of the original solution to the corresponding self-similar cooling state. In the case of weak inelasticity, similar results have been established by Carlen, Carrillo and Carvalho (2009) in [11] via a precise control of the growth of the Fisher information.
Eventual regularization for the slightly supercritical quasi-geostrophic equation
Authors: Silvestre Luis
Published: November 2009

We prove that weak solutions of the slightly supercritical quasi-geostrophic equation become smooth for large time. The proof uses ideas from a recent article of Caffarelli and Vasseur and is based on an argument in the style of De Giorgi.

Dans cet article, nous montrons que les solutions faibles de l'équation quasi-géostrophique légèrement sur-critique deviennent régulières en temps grand. La démonstration utilise des idées d'un article récent de Caffarelli et Vasseur et repose sur un argument de type de De Giorgi.
Regularity of solutions for the critical N-dimensional Burgers' equation
Authors: Chan Chi Hin , Czubak Magdalena
Published: November 2009

We consider the fractional Burgers' equation on

\mathbb{R}^{N}

with the critical dissipation term. We follow the parabolic De-Giorgi's method of Caffarelli and Vasseur and show existence of smooth solutions given any initial datum in

L^{2}(\mathbb{R}^{N})

.

Nous considérons l'équation de Burgers avec diffusion fractionnelle dans

\mathbb{R}^{N}

. Nous montrons l'existence de solutions globales regulières pour toute donnée initiale dans

L^{2}(\mathbb{R}^{N})

, en utilisant une version parabolique de la méthode de De Giorgi introduite par Caffarelli et Vasseur.
Plant isoprenoid biosynthesis via the MEP pathway: In vivo IPP/DMAPP ratio produced by (E)‐4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbut‐2‐enyl diphosphate reductase in tobacco BY‐2 cell cultures
Authors: Tritsch Denis , Hemmerlin Andréa , Bach Thomas J , Rohmer Michel
Published: November 2009

Feeding tobacco BY‐2 cells with [2‐13C,4‐2H]deoxyxylulose revealed from the 13C labeling that the plastid isoprenoids, synthesized via the MEP pathway, are essentially derived from the labeled precursor. The ca. 15% 2H retention observed in all isoprene units corresponds to the isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP)/dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP) ratio (85:15) directly produced by the hydroxymethylbutenyl diphosphate reductase, the last enzyme of the MEP pathway. 2H retention characterizes the isoprene units derived from the DMAPP branch, whereas 2H loss represents the signature of the IPP branch. Taking into account the enantioselectivity of the reactions catalyzed by the (E)‐4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylbut‐2‐enyl diphosphate reductase, the IPP isomerase and the trans‐prenyl transferase, a single biogenetic scheme allows to interpret all labeling patterns observed in bacteria or plants upon incubation with 2H labeled deoxyxylulose.
Ionic control of the metastable inner leaflet of the plasma membrane: Fusions natural and artefactual
Authors: Morris Roger J.
Published: November 2009

The phospholipids of the inner and outer leaflets of the plasma membrane face chemically very different environments, and are specialized to serve different needs. While lipids of the outer leaflet are inherently stable in a lamellar (bilayer) phase, the main lipid of the inner layer, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), does not form a lamellar phase unless evenly mixed with phosphatidylserine (PS−). This mixture can be readily perturbed by factors that include an influx of Ca2+ that chelates the negatively charged PS−, thereby destabilizing PE. The implications of this metastability of the inner leaflet for vesicular trafficking, and experimentally for the isolation of detergent‐resistant membrane domains (DRMs) at physiological temperature, are considered.
Systems Biology: The elements and principles of Life
Authors: Westerhoff Hans V. , Winder Catherine , Messiha Hanan , Simeonidis Evangelos , Adamczyk Malgorzata , Verma Malkhey , Bruggeman Frank J. , Dunn Warwick
Published: November 2009

Systems Biology has a mission that puts it at odds with traditional paradigms of physics and molecular biology, such as the simplicity requested by Occam's razor and minimum energy/maximal efficiency. By referring to biochemical experiments on control and regulation, and on flux balancing in yeast, we show that these paradigms are inapt. Systems Biology does not quite converge with biology either: Although it certainly requires accurate ‘stamp collecting’, it discovers quantitative laws. Systems Biology is a science of its own, discovering own fundamental principles, some of which we identify here.
Early exposure of cultured hippocampal neurons to excitatory amino acids protects from later excitotoxicity
Authors: Friedman Linda K. , Segal Menahem
Published: November 2009

Status epilepticus occurring in early postnatal development protects CA1 hippocampal neurons, the region most sensitive to seizure‐induced injury in the developing brain. Here, we developed a “two hit” model in dissociated cultures of the rat hippocampus to test whether pre‐exposure of immature neurons to high concentrations of glutamate, N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA) or α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole‐propionic acid (AMPA) during a relatively resistant period prevents neurons from dying following a second exposure to the same chemicals after neurons mature and become highly vulnerable to excitatory amino acids (EAAs). Cultures were exposed to varied doses of glutamate, NMDA, or AMPA for 48 h at 5 DIV and again at 14 DIV for 5, 15, or 30 min. NeuN immunohistochemistry showed early exposure to glutamate (500 μM) killed approximately half of the neurons (52 ± 8.6%) compared to the marked depletion that occurs after one exposure at 14 DIV (98 ± 0.79%). When cultures were first challenged with moderate doses of glutamate (200 μM) followed by the high dose 7 days later, a significant population of neurons was spared (35.3 ± 1.2%). Similarly, pre‐exposure to maximal doses of NMDA (100 μM) increased the proportion of surviving cells following the second challenge. In contrast, AMPA (100 μM) was equally toxic after early or late applications and did not protect from the second exposure. GluR1 subunit expression was markedly decreased at 48 h after one or two exposures to 200 μM glutamate (by 44.57 ± 3.6%, 45.07 ± 3.69%) whereas GluR2 subunit expression was reduced by a lesser amount (25.7 57 ± 3.8%). Confocal microscopy showed that one or two exposures to NMDA caused GluR2 protein to downregulate even further whereas parvalbumin (PV) was dramatically increased in the same neurons by over four‐fold. On the other hand, calbindin (CB) immunoreactivity was nearly absent after the first exposure to 500 μM glutamate. These data indicate that early, transient exposure to certain EAAs at high doses can induce long‐lasting neuroprotection. Alterations in the GluR1/GluR2 ratio as well as differential expression of specific calcium binding proteins may contribute to this neuroprotection.
Hyperhomocysteinemia reduces glutamate uptake in parietal cortex of rats
Authors: Matté Cristiane , Mussulini Ben Hur M. , dos Santos Tiago M. , Soares Flávia M.S. , Simão Fabrício , Matté Aline , de Oliveira Diogo L. , Salbego Christianne G. , Wofchuk Susana T. , Wyse Angela T.S.
Published: November 2009

In the present study we evaluated the effect of acute and chronic homocysteine administrations on glutamate uptake in parietal cortex of rats. The immunocontent of glial glutamate transporter (GLAST) and sodium‐dependent glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLT‐1) in the same cerebral structure was also investigated. For acute treatment, neonate or young rats received a single injection of homocysteine or saline (control) and were sacrificed 1, 8, 12 h, 7 or 30 days later. For chronic treatment, homocysteine was administered to rats twice a day at 8 h interval from their 6th to their 28th days old; controls and treated rats were sacrificed 12 h, 1, 7 or 30 days after the last injection. Results show that acute hyperhomocysteinemia caused a reduction on glutamate uptake in parietal cortex of neonate and young rats, and that 12 h after homocysteine administration the glutamate uptake returned to normal levels in young rats, but not in neonate. Chronic hyperhomocysteinemia reduced glutamate uptake, and GLAST and GLT‐1 immunocontent. According to our results, it seems reasonable to postulate that the reduction on glutamate uptake in cerebral cortex of rats caused by homocysteine may be mediated by the reduction of GLAST and GLT‐1 immunocontent, leading to increased extracellular glutamate concentrations, promoting excitotoxicity.
ANTHROPOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS OF ADOLESCENTS FROM TWO AMAZONIAN ECOSYSTEMS: VARIATIONS ACCORDING TO SEASONALITY
Authors: SILVA HILTON P. , VEIGA GLORIA V. , KAC GILBERTO , PEREIRA ROSANGELA A.
Published: November 2009

This paper aims to describe the nutritional status of Caboclo adolescents living in two areas of the Amazon Basin. Two cross-sectional studies, the first in the dry and the second in the wet season, were carried out in two Amazonian ecosystems: the forest and black water ecosystem, and the floodplain and white water ecosystem. Measurements of weight, stature, arm circumference and triceps, subscapular and suprailiac skinfolds were performed on 247 adolescents (10–19 years of age). Nutritional status was classified using body mass index according to international criteria and the prevalence of underweight and overweight was estimated. Linear mixed effects models were used with the anthropometric measurements as dependent variables and time interval, place of residence, sex, age and stature variation as independent variables. During the wet season, the prevalence of overweight among girls was higher in the forest (42%) than in the floodplain (9%). Longitudinal linear regression models showed that the arm circumference measurement was influenced both by seasonality and location, revealing that the increment between dry and wet seasons was less pronounced in the floodplain. At the time of the study, overweight already constituted a major public health concern among girls living in the forest area. In order to develop adequate public health policies for this important segment of the Amazon population further studies are necessary to investigate the role of environment and seasonality on the growth and nutritional status of adolescents.