bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Case against Cheap Bananas: Lessons from the EU-Caribbean Banana Agreement
Authors: Fridell Gavin
Published: April 2011

This article examines the dismantling of the EU-Caribbean banana agreement and how its decline has been justified by economic critics drawing on dubious knowledge about the benefits of free trade and the negative effects of ‘preferential’ trade. Based on a historical assessment of the banana agreement, it provides a critique of the claims of the economic opponents and argues that their assertions are based largely on the speculative assumptions of the free trade ‘power/knowledge regime’ and not the historical, power, and class conditions under which bananas are produced, traded, and sold. Taking these considerations into account, the banana agreement, despite its shortcomings, was a model of ‘social efficiency’ that demonstrates the benefits of preferential treatment to support development and poverty alleviation among otherwise marginalized communities in the global South.
Stigmatization Among Drug-Using Sex Workers Accessing Support Services in Dublin
Authors: Whitaker Teresa , Ryan Paul , Cox Gemma
Published: April 2011

Findings from 35 qualitative interviews with drug users who were engaging in or who had engaged in sex work in Dublin, Ireland, illuminated how, because of a result of felt stigma and internalized shame, they tried to hide their drug use, thus endangering their own lives. This group carried multiple layers of stigma because of sex work, drug use (including injecting drug use), and having contracted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). This stigma was powerfully reinforced by the language routinely used by health professionals. To improve the effectiveness of harm-reduction interventions, it is recommended that service providers change their language, in particular in recognition of the human dignity of these clients, but also to help attract and retain drug users in services, and to help reduce the unacceptable mortality levels among drug users.
Decision Making in a Crowded Room
Authors: Forsyth Rowena , Scanlan Camilla , Carter Stacy M. , Jordens Christopher F. C. , Kerridge Ian
Published: April 2011

Researchers studying health care decision making generally focus on the interaction that unfolds between patients and health professionals. Using the example of allogeneic bone marrow transplant, in this article we identify decision making to be a relational process concurrently underpinned by patients’ engagement with health professionals, their families, and broader social networks. We argue that the person undergoing a transplant simultaneously reconciles numerous social roles throughout treatment decision making, each of which encompasses a system of mutuality, reciprocity, and obligation. As individuals enter through the doorway of the consultation room and become “patients,” they do not leave their roles as parents, spouses, and citizens outside in the hallway. Rather, these roles and their relational counterpoints—family members, friends, and colleagues—continue to sit alongside the patient role during clinical interactions. As such, the places that doctors and patients discuss diagnosis and treatment become “crowded rooms” of decision making.
The Idea Factory
Authors: Rosh Lisa , Leach Evan
Published: April 2011

This article outlines the Idea Factory exercise, an interactive exercise designed to help participants examine group, individual, and organizational factors that affect intergroup conflict. Specific emphasis is placed on exploring the relationship between intra- and intergroup dynamics and identifying managerial practices that foster effective collaboration. The article reviews the relevant literature on intergroup dynamics and includes detailed directions for implementing and debriefing the exercise. The appendixes include facilitator(s) notes, participant instructions, debriefing suggestions, and sample agendas. The article concludes with the results of a participant survey, providing evidence that the Idea Factory exercise achieves its learning objectives.
Commentary on Symptom Experience of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Patients
Authors: Khan Ehsan Ullah
Published: April 2011

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a complex and rapidly progressing illness with few long-term treatment options to prolong life and improve quality of life. The complexity of the disease predisposes patients to a multitude of symptoms that have an effect on their biopsychosocial well-being. McDonough et al. have taken a qualitative approach to examine the dimensions of PAH symptomology. Using a telephone survey approach, 10 patients were questioned regarding their symptoms. Following coding and categorization of the responses, two main themes were found, “holding back” and redefining life.” The primary symptom associated with holding back was breathlessness. This symptom largely governed fears and behaviors associated with subthemes found within this main theme. Breathlessness also featured in the redefining life category; however, practical issues associated with medication and treatment were also assigned importance in this category by the study respondents. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were counteracted in many instances by a positive and sometimes stoic attitude toward the illness. This study presents important foundational information which will help direct further development of theoretical hypothesis related to PAH symptomology, as well as help focus clinical research toward venues that will enhance nursing care of this complex disease.
Morphological Parameters Associated With Perineural Invasion (PNI) in Carcinoma of the Cervix Uteri
Authors: Meinel Alexandra , Fischer Uta , Bilek Karl , Hentschel Bettina , Horn Lars-Christian
Published: April 2011

The study determines morphological features that are associated with perineural invasion (PNI) in patients with cervical carcinoma (CX). Histological slides from 194 patients from surgically treated squamous cell carcinoma were re-examined for PNI and correlated to morphological factors of tumor growth. Material from 68 patients (35.1%) represented PNI. PNI was significantly correlated with advanced tumor stage ( P < .001). Patients with deep cervical stromal invasion (>66%) showed more PNI than those with more superficial invasion (41% vs 16.9%; P = .001). Tumors with spray-like PI showed significantly more PNI (48.4%) when compared with finger-like PI (26.7%) and those with pushing borders (18.8%; P = .007). Strong peritumoral desmoplastic stromal reaction and absence of peritumoral inflammation were associated with a higher frequency of PNI ( P < .001). PNI is associated with advanced tumor stage, deep cervical stromal invasion (>66%), high grade of tumor cell dissociation (ie, spray-like pattern of invasion), strong peritumoral desmoplastic stromal reaction, and reduced peritumoral inflammation.
Chondroid Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor: A Clinicopathological and Immunohistochemical Analysis of 5 New Cases
Authors: Hoch Benjamin L. , Garcia Roberto A. , Smalberger Gert J.
Published: April 2011

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) arises from the synovium of joints or tendon sheaths. Chondroid metaplasia in TGCT is rare with only 4 well-documented cases reported in the literature. The authors describe the morphological features and immunophenotype of 5 new cases of chondroid TGCT emphasizing a broader range of matrix patterns in these tumors and an expanded immunophenotype, specifically, staining for clusterin and podoplanin which have recently been found to be expressed in conventional TGCTs. Chondroid metaplasia was extensive in 3 cases. Matrix patterns included chondromyxoid, chondro-osseous, hyaline-like, and lace-like calcification similar to that seen in chondroblastoma. The authors conclude that chondroid TGCT is a rare, distinct synovial tumor with a predilection for the temporomandibular joint that has a similar immunophenotype as conventional TGCT. Chondroid metaplasia may be extensive and have a variety of matrix patterns. Chondroid TGCT needs to be distinguished from other chondroid lesions, including chondroblastoma and chondrosarcoma.
A Web-Based Intervention to Reduce Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancies in the Community
Authors: Tenkku Leigh E. , Mengel Mark B. , Nicholson Robert A. , Hile Matthew G. , Morris Daniel S. , Salas Joanne
Published: April 2011

Despite warnings that drinking during pregnancy is unsafe, many women are still at risk for an alcohol-exposed pregnancy (AEP). This article describes the outcomes of a web-based, self-guided change intervention designed to lower the risk for AEPs in a community. A sample of 458 women, between the ages of 18 and 44 years and at risk for an AEP (i.e., any drinking in the past 30 days and not using reliable contraception), participated in the study. A total of 58% of the women enrolled in the self-guided change intervention were no longer at risk for an AEP at the 4-month follow-up. Sublevel analysis revealed that mail and online versions of the intervention were equally successful at reducing risk for an AEP. This study represents a successful implementation of a web-based, self-guided change intervention to reduce risk for an AEP, an intervention with community-wide reach due to the Internet platform.
Wallpaper* City Guides and Gendering the Urban Aesthetic
Authors: Degen Monica , Wainwright Emma
Published: April 2011

Cities are socio-cultural constructions in which physical spaces stand in a symbiotic relationship with their representations. In this context, city guides play a crucial role in framing how urban spaces are mediated and engaged with. In spite of critical readings of such guides, a gender analysis is lacking. In 2006 the first Wallpaper* city guide series was launched, advertising themselves as design-conscious handbooks. In this article we incorporate gender into the making of a particular urban aesthetic as articulated in the Wallpaper* city guides. Based on autoethnographic snapshots and critical textual and material analyses, we examine how these guides simultaneously reinforce, subvert and expand binary gendered thinking through the tensions between representations and experiences of urban place. In particular, the paper points to how these guides create a gendered geography of the city within specific aesthetic boundaries and practices.
Cardiovascular risk profile of young hypertensive patients: the OPENJOVEN study
Authors: Martell-Claros Nieves , Galgo-Nafria Alberto
Published: April 2011

Background: Knowledge of the hypertensive patient’s characteristics is an important aspect to improve its clinical handling. Because of the burden that the patients of advanced age suppose in primary care, few data exist about the youngest patient's cardiovascular profile.

Objective: To describe the cardiovascular profile of the young hypertensive patient (<55 years) in primary care in Spain.

Design and methods: Cross-sectional multicentre study that was carried out in centres of primary care of the whole Spanish territory. At total of 2108 doctors participated and 6815 patients diagnosed with high blood pressure were included. We used a survey of risk factors, subclinical organ damage, and cardiovascular or renal established disease according to the European Society of Hypertension and the European Society of Cardiology 2007 guidelines to evaluate the cardiovascular risk.

Results: Of the hypertensive patients, 5.8% did have not another cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF), 23.2% had one risk factor associated with high blood pressure, 32.8% two, 24.7% three, 11.3% four, and 2.3% had five risk factors. The most prevalent cardiovascular risk factor was dyslipidaemia, found in 80.4% (37.9% with treatment), followed by abdominal obesity, in 45.9% of the hypertensive patients. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 44.4%. The cardiovascular risk was average in 0.2% of the sample, low in 5%, moderate in 26.1%, high in 47.3%, and very high in 21.4%.

Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that newly diagnosed young hypertensive patients have an intense association of CVRF and a high cardiovascular risk.
Testicular Sarcoidosis: Sonographic Findings
Authors: Ghazle Hamad H. , Bhatt Shweta
Published: April 2011

Testicular sarcoidosis is a rare but benign entity. It is often mistaken for testicular neoplasm, leading to orchiectomy. It is, therefore, extremely important to identify and correctly diagnose testicular sarcoidosis on sonography to avoid unnecessary orchiectomy. This case study reports a young patient who had a prior history of unilateral orchiectomy for cryporchidism and presented with testicular lesions on the contralateral testis. He was later found to have skin lesions and chest symptoms that led to a diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
MiR-29a down-regulation in ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphomas contributes to apoptosis blockade through MCL-1 overexpression
Authors: Desjobert Cécile , Renalier Marie-Hélène , Bergalet Julie , Dejean Emilie , Joseph Nicole , Kruczynski Anna , Soulier Jean , Espinos Estelle , Meggetto Fabienne , Cavaillé Jérome , Delsol Georges , Lamant Laurence
Published: April 2011

Although deregulated expression of specific microRNAs (miRNAs) has been described in solid cancers and leukemias, little evidence of miRNA deregulation has been reported in ALK-positive (ALK+) anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCL). These tumors overexpress the major antiapoptotic protein myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL-1), a situation that could compensate for the lack of BCL-2. We report that ALK+ ALCL cell lines and biopsy specimens (n = 20) express a low level of miR-29a and that this down-modulation requires an active NPM-ALK kinase. Murine models (transgenic mice and mouse embryonic fibroblast [MEF] cells), which allow conditional NPM-ALK fusion protein expression, showed an increase of miR-29a expression in the absence of NPM-ALK. Concordant results were observed after the abolition of NPM-ALK kinase activity (siALK or PF-2341066) in NPM-ALK+ ALCL cell lines. In addition, we showed that low expression of miR-29a, probably through methylation repression, plays an important regulatory role in MCL-1 overexpression that could promote tumor cell survival by inhibiting apoptosis. Enforced miR-29a expression was found to modulate apoptosis through inhibition of MCL-1 expression in ALCL cell lines and in a xenografted model, with a concomitant tumor growth reduction. Thus, synthetic miR-29a represents a potential new tool to affect tumorigenesis in these lymphomas.
Disruption of heparan sulfate proteoglycan conformation perturbs B-cell maturation and APRIL-mediated plasma cell survival
Authors: Reijmers Rogier M. , Groen Richard W. J. , Kuil Annemieke , Weijer Kees , Kimberley Fiona C. , Medema Jan Paul , van Kuppevelt Toin H. , Li Jin-Ping , Spaargaren Marcel , Pals Steven T.
Published: April 2011

The development and antigen-dependent differentiation of B lymphocytes are orchestrated by an array of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines that require tight spatiotemporal regulation. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans specifically bind and regulate the bioavailability of soluble protein ligands, but their role in the immune system has remained largely unexplored. Modification of heparan sulfate by glucuronyl C5-epimerase (Glce) controls heparan sulfate-chain flexibility and thereby affects ligand binding. Here we show that Glce deficiency impairs B-cell maturation, resulting in decreased plasma cell numbers and immunoglobulin levels. We demonstrate that C5-epimerase modification of heparan sulfate is critical for binding of a proliferation inducing ligand (APRIL) and that Glce-deficient plasma cells fail to respond to APRIL-mediated survival signals. Our results identify heparan sulfate proteoglycans as novel players in B-cell maturation and differentiation and suggest that heparan sulfate conformation is crucial for recruitment of factors that control plasma cell survival.
Expansion and functional diversification of a leucyl aminopeptidase family that encodes the major protein constituents of Drosophila sperm
Authors: Dorus Steve , Wilkin Elaine C , Karr Timothy L
Published: April 2011

Background

The evolutionary diversification of gene families through gene creation (and loss) is a dynamic process believed to be critical to the evolution of functional novelty. Previous identification of a closely related family of eight annotated metalloprotease genes of the M17 Merops family in the Drosophila sperm proteome (termed, S perm-L eucylA minoP eptidases, S-LAPs 1-8) led us to hypothesize that this gene family may have experienced such a diversification during insect evolution.

Results

To assess putative functional activities of S-LAPs, we (i) demonstrated that all S-LAPs are specifically expressed in the testis, (ii) confirmed their presence in sperm by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, (iii) determined that they represent a major portion of the total protein in sperm and (iv) identified aminopeptidase enzymatic activity in sperm extracts using LAP-specific substrates. Functionally significant divergence at the canonical M17 active site indicates that the largest phylogenetic group of S-LAPs lost catalytic activity and likely acquired novel, as yet undetermined, functions in sperm prior to the expansion of the gene family.

Conclusions

Comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses revealed the dramatic expansion of the S-LAP gene family during Drosophila evolution and copy number heterogeneity in the genomes of related insects. This finding, in conjunction with the loss of catalytic activity and potential neofunctionalization amongst some family members, extends empirical support for pervasive "revolving door" turnover in the evolution of reproductive gene family composition and function.
Integration of molecular biology tools for identifying promoters and genes abundantly expressed in flowers of Oncidium Gower Ramsey
Authors: Hsu Chen-Tran , Liao De-Chih , Wu Fu-Hui , Liu Nien-Tze , Shen Shu-Chen , Chou Shu-Jen , Tung Shu-Yun , Yang Chang-Hsien , Chan Ming-Tsair , Lin Choun-Sea
Published: April 2011

Background

Orchids comprise one of the largest families of flowering plants and generate commercially important flowers. However, model plants, such asArabidopsis thalianado not contain all plant genes, and agronomic and horticulturally important genera and species must be individually studied.

Results

Several molecular biology tools were used to isolate flower-specific gene promoters fromOncidium'Gower Ramsey' (Onc. GR). A cDNA library of reproductive tissues was used to construct a microarray in order to compare gene expression in flowers and leaves. Five genes were highly expressed in flower tissues, and the subcellular locations of the corresponding proteins were identified using lip transient transformation with fluorescent protein-fusion constructs. BAC clones of the 5 genes, together with 7 previously published flower- and reproductive growth-specific genes inOnc. GR, were identified for cloning of their promoter regions. Interestingly, 3 of the 5 novel flower-abundant genes were putative trypsin inhibitor (TI) genes (OnTI1,OnTI2andOnTI3), which were tandemly duplicated in the same BAC clone. Their promoters were identified using transient GUS reporter gene transformation and stableA. thalianatransformation analyses.

Conclusions

By combining cDNA microarray, BAC library, and bombardment assay techniques, we successfully identified flower-directed orchid genes and promoters.
Female gender predicts lower access and adherence to antiretroviral therapy in a setting of free healthcare
Authors: Tapp Christine , Milloy M-J , Kerr Thomas , Zhang Ruth , Guillemi Silvia , Hogg Robert S , Montaner Julio , Wood Evan
Published: April 2011

Background

Barriers to HIV treatment among injection drug users (IDU) are a major public health concern. However, there remain few long-term studies investigating key demographic and behavioral factors - and gender differences in particular - that may pose barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART), especially in settings with universal healthcare. We evaluated access and adherence to ART in a long-term cohort of HIV-positive IDU in a setting where medical care and antiretroviral therapy are provided free of charge through a universal healthcare system.

Methods

We evaluated baseline antiretroviral use and subsequent adherence to ART among a Canadian cohort of HIV-positive IDU. We used generalized estimating equation logistic regression to evaluate factors associated with 95% adherence to antiretroviral therapy estimated based on prescription refill compliance.

Results

Between May 1996 and April 2008, 545 IDU participants were followed for a median of 23.8 months (Inter-quartile range: 8.5 - 91.6), among whom 341 (63%) were male and 204 (37%) were female. Within the six-month period prior to the baseline interview, 133 (39%) men and 62 (30%) women were on ART (p= 0.042). After adjusting for clinical characteristics as well as drug use patterns measured longitudinally throughout follow-up, female gender was independently associated with a lower likelihood of being 95% adherent to ART (Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.70; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.53-0.93).

Conclusions

Despite universal access to free HIV treatment and medical care, female IDU were less likely to access and adhere to antiretroviral therapy, a finding that was independent of drug use and clinical characteristics. These data suggest that interventions to improve access to HIV treatment among IDU must be tailored to address unique barriers to antiretroviral therapy faced by female IDU.
Comparison of expression, purification and characterization of a new pectate lyase from Phytophthora capsiciusing two different methods
Authors: Wang Huizheng , Fu Li , Zhang Xiuguo
Published: April 2011

Background

Pectate lyases (PELs) play an important role in the infection process of plant pathogens and also have a commercial significance in industrial applications. Most of the PELs were expressed as soluble recombinant proteins, while a few recombinant proteins were insoluble. The production of a large-scale soluble recombinant PEL would allow not only a more detailed structural and functional characterization of this enzyme but also may have important applications in the food industry.

Results

We cloned a new pectate lyase gene (Pcpel2) from Phytophthora capsici. Pcpel2 was constructed by pET system and pMAL system, and both constructs were used to express the PCPEL2 in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) pLysS. The expressed products were purified using affinity chromatography and gel filtration chromatography. The purity, specific activity and pathogenicity of the purified PCPEL2 expressed by the pMAL system were higher than the purified PCPEL2 expressed by the pET system. In addition, some other characteristics of the purified PCPEL2 differed from the two systems, such as crystallographic features. Purified PCPEL2 expressed by the pMAL system was crystallized by the hanging-drop vapour-diffusion method at 289 K, and initial crystals were grown.

Conclusion

The two different methods and comparison presented here would be highly valuable in obtaining an ideal enzyme for the downstream experiments, and supply an useful alternative to purify some insoluble recombinant proteins.
One year outcomes of a mentoring scheme for female academics: a pilot study at the Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London
Authors: Dutta Rina , Hawkes Sarah L , Kuipers Elizabeth , Guest David , Fear Nicola T , Iversen Amy C
Published: April 2011

Background

The professional development of under-represented faculty may be enhanced by mentorship, but we understand very little about the mechanisms by which mentoring brings about change. Our study posed the research question, what are the mechanisms by which mentoring may support professional development in under-represented groups?

The study aims to: (i) to pilot a mentoring scheme for female academics; (ii) to compare various health-related and attitudinal measures in mentees at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year into the mentoring relationship and, (iii) to compare pre-mentoring expectations to outcomes at 6 months and 1 year follow-up for mentees and mentors.

Methods

Female academic mentees were matched 1:1 or 2:1 with more senior academic mentors. Online surveys were conducted to compare health-related and attitudinal measures and expectations of mentoring at baseline with outcomes at 6 months and 1 year using paired t-tests and McNemar's test for matched cohort data.

Results

N = 46 mentoring pairs, 44 (96%) mentees completed the pre-mentoring survey, 37 (80%) at 6 months and 30 (65%) at 1 year. Job-related well-being (anxiety-contentment), self-esteem and self-efficacy all improved significantly and work-family conflict diminished at 1 year. Highest expectations were career progression (39; 89%), increased confidence (38; 87%), development of networking skills (33; 75%), better time-management (29; 66%) and better work-life balance (28; 64%). For mentees, expectations at baseline were higher than perceived achievements at 6 months or 1 year follow-up.

For mentors (N = 39), 36 (92%) completed the pre-mentoring survey, 32 (82%) at 6 months and 28 (72%) at 1 year. Mentors' highest expectations were of satisfaction in seeing people progress (26; 69%), seeing junior staff develop and grow (19; 53%), helping solve problems (18; 50%), helping women advance their careers (18; 50%) and helping remove career obstacles (13; 36%). Overall, gains at 6 months and 1 year exceeded pre-mentoring expectations.

Conclusions

This uncontrolled pilot study suggests that mentoring can improve aspects of job-related well-being, self-esteem and self-efficacy over 6 months, with further improvements seen after 1 year for female academics. Work-family conflict can also diminish. Despite these gains, mentees' prior expectations were shown to be unrealistically high, but mentors' expectations were exceeded.
Phase 1 pilot study of e-mail support for people with long term conditions using the Internet
Authors: Sheaves Bryony , Jones Ray B , Williamson Graham R , Chauhan Rohan
Published: April 2011

Background

Use of the Internet for people with Long Term Conditions (LTCs) can have a positive effect on knowledge, social support, behavioural and clinical outcomes, yet there is concern that a 'digital divide' prevents some patients from benefitting. While some patients do not have access to the Internet, others that do may still lack expertise or the confidence to make full use of it. The aim of this pilot study was to develop an intervention and test methods for a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) of anonymous personal online email support for patients in this latter group.

Methods

Recruitment success was evaluated by the number and appropriateness of participants recruited. A personalised e-health support intervention was developed. The provisional primary outcome was the extent to which the Internet affected the participants' confidence in dealing with their LTC. Primary outcome, seven process measures and two secondary outcomes measures were evaluated for completeness of data and sensitivity to detect changes.

Results

Thirty nine participants were recruited, 29 after personally receiving a leaflet, seven via email advertising, and three via leaflets left in waiting areas. Most participants (61%) were aged over 60. The majority (21/38) rated themselves as experienced Internet users although only 5/38 had used discussion forums for their LTC. Piloting the intervention identified support needed as: (i) technical help with some websites, (ii) advice about issues such as anonymity, (iii) help in judging information quality, (iv) identification of relevant information (via 'Information Prescriptions'), (v) motivational support to try new sites. Attrition was fairly high: 20/39 completed follow up questionnaires. Three process measures showed ceiling effects and two had too many missing values to be useable.

Conclusion

E-health support is a promising way of addressing the problems faced by older generation e-health seekers. Face-to-face leaflet distribution recruited sufficient numbers but additional locations other than hospital should be tried to recruit Internet novices with LTCs. An RCT is feasible and necessary to evaluate the potential benefits of anonymous email support. Our methods could be used by other researchers studying Internet use by people with LTCs.
Experimental stability analysis of different water-based nanofluids
Authors: Fedele Laura , Colla Laura , Bobbo Sergio , Barison Simona , Agresti Filippo
Published: April 2011

In the recent years, great interest has been devoted to the unique properties of nanofluids. The dispersion process and the nanoparticle suspension stability have been found to be critical points in the development of these new fluids. For this reason, an experimental study on the stability of water-based dispersions containing different nanoparticles, i.e. single wall carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and copper oxide (CuO), has been developed in this study. The aim of this study is to provide stable nanofluids for selecting suitable fluids with enhanced thermal characteristics. Different dispersion techniques were considered in this study, including sonication, ball milling and high-pressure homogenization. Both the dispersion process and the use of some dispersants were investigated as a function of the nanoparticle concentration. The high-pressure homogenization was found to be the best method, and the addition of n-dodecyl sulphate and polyethylene glycol as dispersants, respectively in SWCNHs-water and TiO2-water nanofluids, improved the nanofluid stability.
Synthesis and characterization of VO2-based thermochromic thin films for energy-efficient windows
Authors: Batista Carlos , Ribeiro Ricardo M , Teixeira Vasco
Published: April 2011

Thermochromic VO2 thin films have successfully been grown on SiO2-coated float glass by reactive DC and pulsed-DC magnetron sputtering. The influence of substitutional doping of V by higher valence cations, such as W, Mo, and Nb, and respective contents on the crystal structure of VO2 is evaluated. Moreover, the effectiveness of each dopant element on the reduction of the intrinsic transition temperature and infrared modulation efficiency of VO2 is discussed. In summary, all the dopant elements--regardless of the concentration, within the studied range-- formed a solid solution with VO2, which was the only compound observed by X-ray diffractometry. Nb showed a clear detrimental effect on the crystal structure of VO2. The undoped films presented a marked thermochromic behavior, specially the one prepared by pulsed-DC sputtering. The dopants effectively decreased the transition of VO2 to the proximity of room temperature. However, the IR modulation efficiency is markedly affected as a consequence of the increased metallic character of the semiconducting phase. Tungsten proved to be the most effective element on the reduction of the semiconducting-metal transition temperature, while Mo and Nb showed similar results with the latter being detrimental to the thermochromism.
An antibacterial coating based on a polymer/sol-gel hybrid matrix loaded with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Rivero Pedro José , Urrutia Aitor , Goicoechea Javier , Zamarreño Carlos Ruiz , Arregui Francisco Javier , Matías Ignacio Raúl
Published: April 2011

In this work a novel antibacterial surface composed of an organic-inorganic hybrid matrix of tetraorthosilicate and a polyelectrolyte is presented. A precursor solution of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and poly(acrylic acid sodium salt) (PAA) was prepared and subsequently thin films were fabricated by the dip-coating technique using glass slides as substrates. This hybrid matrix coating is further loaded with silver nanoparticles using an in situ synthesis route. The morphology and composition of the coatings have been studied using UV-VIS spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) was also used to confirm the presence of the resulting silver nanoparticles within the thin films. Finally the coatings have been tested in bacterial cultures of genus Lactobacillus plantarum to observe their antibacterial properties. It has been experimentally demonstrated that these silver loaded organic-inorganic hybrid films have a very good antimicrobial behavior against this type of bacteria.
Influence of electrolyte co-additives on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Stergiopoulos Thomas , Rozi Evangelia , Karagianni Chaido-Stefania , Falaras Polycarpos
Published: April 2011

The presence of specific chemical additives in the redox electrolyte results in an efficient increase of the photovoltaic performance of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs). The most effective additives are 4-tert-butylpyridine (TBP), N-methylbenzimidazole (NMBI) and guanidinium thiocyanate (GuNCS) that are adsorbed onto the photoelectrode/electrolyte interface, thus shifting the semiconductor's conduction band edge and preventing recombination with triiodides. In a comparative work, we investigated in detail the action of TBP and NMBI additives in ionic liquid-based redox electrolytes with varying iodine concentrations, in order to extract the optimum additive/I2 ratio for each system. Different optimum additive/I2 ratios were determined for TBP and NMBI, despite the fact that both generally work in a similar way. Further addition of GuNCS in the optimized electrolytic media causes significant synergistic effects, the action of GuNCS being strongly influenced by the nature of the corresponding co-additive. Under the best operation conditions, power conversion efficiencies as high as 8% were obtained.
Cohesive strength of nanocrystalline ZnO:Ga thin films deposited at room temperature
Authors: Samantilleke Anura Priyajith , Rebouta Luís Manuel Fernandes , Garim Vitor , Rubio-Peña Luis , Lanceros-Mendez Senetxu , Alpuim Pedro , Carvalho Sandra , Kudrin Alexey V , Danilov Yury A
Published: April 2011

In this study, transparent conducting nanocrystalline ZnO:Ga (GZO) films were deposited by dc magnetron sputtering at room temperature on polymers (and glass for comparison). Electrical resistivities of 8.8 × 10-4 and 2.2 × 10-3 Ω cm were obtained for films deposited on glass and polymers, respectively. The crack onset strain (COS) and the cohesive strength of the coatings were investigated by means of tensile testing. The COS is similar for different GZO coatings and occurs for nominal strains approx. 1%. The cohesive strength of coatings, which was evaluated from the initial part of the crack density evolution, was found to be between 1.3 and 1.4 GPa. For these calculations, a Young's modulus of 112 GPa was used, evaluated by nanoindentation.
Glycated albumin suppresses glucose-induced insulin secretion by impairing glucose metabolism in rat pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Shiraki Takayuki , Miura Yoshikazu , Sawada Tokihiko , Okada Toshie , Sakuraoka Yuhki , Muto Takashi , Kubota Keiichi
Published: April 2011

Background

Glycated albumin (GA) is an Amadori product used as a marker of hyperglycemia. In this study, we investigated the effect of GA on insulin secretion from pancreatic β cells.

Methods

Islets were collected from male Wistar rats by collagenase digestion. Insulin secretion in the presence of non-glycated human albumin (HA) and GA was measured under three different glucose concentrations, 3 mM (G3), 7 mM (G7), and 15 mM (G15), with various stimulators. Insulin secretion was measured with antagonists of inducible nitric oxide synthetase (iNOS), and the expression of iNOS-mRNA was investigated by real-time PCR.

Results

Insulin secretion in the presence of HA and GA was 20.9 ± 3.9 and 21.6 ± 5.5 μU/3 islets/h for G3 (P = 0.920), and 154 ± 9.3 and 126.1 ± 7.3 μU/3 islets/h (P = 0.046), for G15, respectively. High extracellular potassium and 10 mM tolbutamide abrogated the inhibition of insulin secretion by GA. Glyceraldehyde, dihydroxyacetone, methylpyruvate, GLP-1, and forskolin, an activator of adenylate cyclase, did not abrogate the inhibition. Real-time PCR showed that GA did not induce iNOS-mRNA expression. Furthermore, an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthetase, aminoguanidine, and NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester did not abrogate the inhibition of insulin secretion.

Conclusion

GA suppresses glucose-induced insulin secretion from rat pancreatic β-cells through impairment of intracellular glucose metabolism.
Mucocele-like lesions of the breast: a long-term follow-up study
Authors: Ohi Yasuyo , Umekita Yoshihisa , Rai Yoshiaki , Sagara Yasuaki , Baba Shinichi , Tamada Shugo , Sagara Yoshiaki , Kukita Taeko , Yoshioka Takako , Hatanaka Kazuhito , Sagara Yoshiatsu , Tanimoto Akihide
Published: April 2011

Background

Mucocele-like lesions (MLL) of the breast were originally described as benign lesions composed of multiple cysts lined by uniform flat to cuboidal epithelium with extravasated mucin, but subsequent reports described the coexistence of columnar cell lesions (CCL), atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Several reports have investigated whether core biopsy can diagnose MLL reliably; however, there is only one report with a long-term follow-up after excision of MLL. We report here 15 surgically excised MLL with a long-term follow-up.

Findings

Fifteen lesions diagnosed as MLL from 13 patients who had undergone excisional biopsy between January 2001 and December 2006 were retrieved and followed-up for 24-99 months (median 63.8). Two lesions were accompanied with CCL, 5 with ADH and 3 with low grade DCIS. Four lesions (2 ADH, 2 DCIS) were additionally resected and their histology revealed 2 ADH, one DCIS and one MLL with CCL. Of 4 lesions (3 ADH, one DCIS) without additional resection, one lesion (ADH) relapsed accompanied with DCIS at 37 months after excision.

Conclusions

MLL were frequently accompanied with CCL, ADH or low grade DCIS. Complete resection may be recommended in case of MLL with ADH or DCIS because of intralesional heterogeneity and the probabilities of relapse.
Increase of Circulating CXCL9 and CXCL11 Associated with Euthyroid or Subclinically Hypothyroid Autoimmune Thyroiditis
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Frascerra Silvia , Di Domenicantonio Andrea , Nicolini Andrea , Ferrari Paola , Ferrannini Ele , Fallahi Poupak
Published: April 2011

Context:

Recently, CXCL9 and CXCL11 have been shown to be involved in autoimmune thyroid disorders; however, no data are present about CXCL9 and CXCL11 circulating levels in thyroid autoimmunity.

Objective:

Our objective was to evaluate circulating CXCL9 and CXCL11 in autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT).

Design and Patients or Other Participants:

Serum CXCL9 and CXCL11 have been measured in 141 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed AIT (AIT-p), 70 euthyroid controls, and 35 patients with nontoxic multinodular thyroid. The three groups were similar in gender distribution and age; among the AIT-p, 26% had subclinical hypothyroidism.

Results:

Serum CXCL9 and CXCL11 levels were significantly (P < 0.0001 for both) higher in AIT-p (143 ± 164 and 121 ± 63 pg/ml, respectively) than in controls (68 ± 37 and 65 ± 19 pg/ml, respectively) or patients with multinodular thyroid (87 ± 43 and 71 ± 20 pg/ml, respectively). Among AIT-p, CXCL9 and CXCL11 levels were significantly higher in patients older than 50 yr or those with a hypoechoic ultrasonographic pattern or with hypothyroidism. In a multiple linear regression model including age, thyroid volume, hypoechogenicity, hypervascularity, TSH, anti-thyroglobulin, and anti-thyroid peroxidase, only age and TSH were significantly (P < 0.05) related to serum CXCL9 or CXCL11 levels. In a multiple linear regression model of CXCL9 vs. age, TSH, and CXCL11, TSH (P = 0.032) and CXCL11 (P = 0.001) were significantly and independently related to CXCL9.

Conclusions:

We first show that circulating CXCL9 and CXCL11 are increased in patients with thyroiditis and hypothyroidism and are related to each other. These results underline the importance of a Th1 immune attack in the initiation of AIT.
Neuron navigator 3a regulates liver organogenesis during zebrafish embryogenesis
Authors: Klein Christian , Mikutta Janine , Krueger Janna , Scholz Katja , Brinkmann Joep , Liu Dong , Veerkamp Justus , Siegel Doreen , Abdelilah-Seyfried Salim , le Noble Ferdinand
Published: April 2011

Endodermal organogenesis requires a precise orchestration of cell fate specification and cell movements, collectively coordinating organ size and shape. In Caenorhabditis elegans, uncoordinated-53 (unc-53) encodes a neural guidance molecule that directs axonal growth. One of the vertebrate homologs of unc-53 is neuron navigator 3 (Nav3). Here, we identified a novel vertebrate neuron navigator 3 isoform in zebrafish, nav3a, and we provide genetic evidence in loss- and gain-of-function experiments showing its functional role in endodermal organogenesis during zebrafish embryogenesis. In zebrafish embryos, nav3a expression was initiated at 22 hpf in the gut endoderm and at 40 hpf expanded to the newly formed liver bud. Endodermal nav3a expression was controlled by Wnt2bb signaling and was independent of FGF and BMP signaling. Morpholino-mediated knockdown of nav3a resulted in a significantly reduced liver size, and impaired development of pancreas and swim bladder. In vivo time-lapse imaging of liver development in nav3a morphants revealed a failure of hepatoblast movement out from the gut endoderm during the liver budding stage, with hepatoblasts being retained in the intestinal endoderm. In hepatocytes in vitro, nav3a acts as a positive modulator of actin assembly in lamellipodia and filipodia extensions, allowing cellular movement. Knockdown of nav3a in vitro impeded hepatocyte movement. Endodermal-specific overexpression of nav3a in vivo resulted in additional ectopic endodermal budding beyond the normal liver and pancreatic budding sites. We conclude that nav3a is required for directing endodermal organogenesis involving coordination of endodermal cell behavior.
MIM regulates vertebrate neural tube closure
Authors: Liu Wei , Komiya Yuko , Mezzacappa Courtney , Khadka Deepak K. , Runnels Loren , Habas Raymond
Published: April 2011

Neural tube closure is a critical morphogenetic event that is regulated by dynamic changes in cell shape and behavior. Although previous studies have uncovered a central role for the non-canonical Wnt signaling pathway in neural tube closure, the underlying mechanism remains poorly resolved. Here, we show that the missing in metastasis (MIM; Mtss1) protein, previously identified as a Hedgehog response gene and actin and membrane remodeling protein, specifically binds to Daam1 and couples non-canonical Wnt signaling to neural tube closure. MIM binds to a conserved domain within Daam1, and this interaction is positively regulated by Wnt stimulation. Spatial expression of MIM is enriched in the anterior neural plate and neural folds, and depletion of MIM specifically inhibits anterior neural fold closure without affecting convergent extension movements or mesoderm cell fate specification. Particularly, we find that MIM is required for neural fold elevation and apical constriction along with cell polarization and elongation in both the superficial and deep layers of the anterior neural plate. The function of MIM during neural tube closure requires both its membrane-remodeling domain and its actin-binding domain. Finally, we show that the effect of MIM on neural tube closure is not due to modulation of Hedgehog signaling in the Xenopus embryo. Together, our studies define a morphogenetic pathway involving Daam1 and MIM that transduces non-canonical Wnt signaling for the cytoskeletal changes and membrane dynamics required for vertebrate neural tube closure.
Transcription precedes loss of Xist coating and depletion of H3K27me3 during X-chromosome reprogramming in the mouse inner cell mass
Authors: Williams Lucy H. , Kalantry Sundeep , Starmer Joshua , Magnuson Terry
Published: April 2011

Repression of Xist RNA expression is considered a prerequisite to reversal of X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) in the mouse inner cell mass (ICM), and reactivation of X-linked genes is thought to follow loss of Xist RNA coating and heterochromatic markers of inactivation, such as methylation of histone H3. We analyzed X-chromosome activity in developing ICMs and show that reactivation of gene expression from the inactive-X initiates in the presence of Xist coating and H3K27me3. Furthermore, depletion of Xist RNA coating through forced upregulation of NANOG does not result in altered reactivation kinetics. Taken together, our observations suggest that in the ICM, X-linked gene transcription and Xist coating are uncoupled. These data fundamentally alter our perception of the reactivation process and support the existence of a mechanism to reactivate Xp-linked genes in the ICM that operates independently of loss of Xist RNA and H3K27me3 from the imprinted inactive-X.
Titanium Tetraiodide-Promoted Reductive Enolate Formation of α-Tosyloxy Ketone Derivatives and Aldol Reaction with Aldehydes
Authors: Hachiya Iwao , Inagaki Takao , Ishihara Yasuhisa , Shimizu Makoto
Published: April 2011

Titanium tetraiodide-promoted reductive enolate formation from α-tosyloxy ketone derivatives and subsequent aldol reaction of the resulting enolates with aldehydes gave β-hydroxy ketones.
The impact of rewards on empowering public nurses
Authors: Gkorezis Panagiotis , Petridou Eugenia
Published: April 2011

Employee empowerment is regarded as an essential management practice that may offer various benefits in health-care organizations. Despite a growing research body regarding the antecedents of psychological empowerment, the literature indicates limited empirical evidence on the effect of rewards on nurses' psychological empowerment. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of a bundle of rewards, namely skill variety, information, recognition and job security, on the psychological empowerment of public nurses. Further, this study investigates the influence of demographics on this construct. Data from 258 public nurses demonstrate that information, recognition and job security have a significant association with employees' feelings of psychological empowerment. This study shows no relationship between skill variety and psychological empowerment. With respect to demographics, age, work experience and tenure have an impact on psychological empowerment.
Scalable office-based health care
Authors: Koepp Gabriel A , Manohar Chinmay U , McCrady-Spitzer Shelly K , Levine James A
Published: April 2011

The goal of health care is to provide high-quality care at an affordable cost for its patients. However, the population it serves has changed dramatically since the popularization of hospital-based health care. With available new technology, alternative health care delivery methods can be designed and tested. This study examines scalable office-based health care for small business, where health care is delivered to the office floor. This delivery was tested in 18 individuals at a small business in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The goal was to deliver modular health care and mitigate conditions such as diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, obesity, sedentariness and metabolic disease. The modular health care system was welcomed by employees – 70% of those eligible enrolled. The findings showed that the modular health care deliverable was feasible and effective. The data demonstrated significant improvements in weight loss, fat loss and blood variables for at risk participants. This study leaves room for improvement and further innovation. Expansion to include offerings such as physicals, diabetes management, smoking cessation and prenatal treatment would improve its utility. Future studies could include testing the adaptability of delivery method, as it should adapt to reach rural and under-served populations.