bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hereditary haemochromatosis mutation frequencies in the general population
Authors: Bradley L A , Johnson D D , Palomaki G E , Haddow J E , Robertson N H , Ferrie R M
Published: May 2013

Objectives This study aims to expand our knowledge of the general population frequency of two mutations, C282Y and H63D, identified in the candidate gene for hereditary haemochromatosis, and to determine whether the testing can be performed using routinely obtained cheek-brush (buccal) samples.

Setting Banked buccal lysate samples, randomised and coded for anonymity, from a cohort of couples who underwent prenatal cystic fibrosis screening in Maine.

Methods A multiplex ARMS test was performed on buccal cell lysates to identify the two mutations.

Results Genotype frequencies found among the 1001 subjects studied (502 women, 499 men) were: seven C282Y homozygotes, 22 C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes, 97 C282Y heterozygotes, 17 H63D homozygotes, 246 H63D heterozygotes, and 612 individuals with no detectable mutation. The allele frequencies for C282Y and H63D were 0.066 and 0.151, respectively.

Conclusions Observed genotype frequencies in Maine are consistent with expectations and with consensus data from five smaller studies. Combined mutational analysis data indicate that homozygosity for C282Y (the genotype found in about 85% of subjects with diagnosed hereditary haemochromatosis) occurs in 51 per 10 000 white subjects of northern European heritage; the corresponding total hereditary haemochromatosis prevalence of about 60 per 10 000 is consistent with previous estimates. The study also confirms that H63D would not be useful in general population screening for hereditary haemochromatosis.
Differences in observer variability of ultrasound measurements of the proximal and distal abdominal aorta
Authors: Pleumeekers H J C M , Hoes A W , Mulder P G H , van der Does E , Hofman A , Laméris J S , Grobbee D E
Published: May 2013

Objective To assess the observer variability of ultrasound measurements of the abdominal aorta and to study whether observer variability is influenced by the site of measurement or cardiovascular risk factors.

Setting Population based screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Methods For 135 subjects taking part in a screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysms, two of the three ultrasonographers measured the distal and proximal ultrasound diameter of the abdominal aorta, using B-mode ultrasound, according to the Rotterdam study scanning protocol.

Results The mean difference between two different observers was 0.06 mm (95% CI –0.15 to 0.27) for measurements of the distal aorta and 0.32 mm (95% CI 0.09 to 0.55) for the proximal aorta. Maximal differences between observers for measurements of both the distal and proximal aortic diameter were 4.0 mm. Interobserver variability in the proximal and distal measurements of the abdominal aorta was not related to the level of the major cardiovascular risk indicators. However, interobserver variability in ultrasound measurements of the proximal aorta increased with increasing waist circumference and increasing diameter of the proximal aorta.

Conclusion Ultrasonographic readings of the distal and proximal aortic measurements can be interpreted within a range of plus or minus 3 mm. Ultrasound measurements are more accurate for the distal than for the proximal measurement. Definition of the aortic diameter based on a combination of both distal and proximal measurement may be more accurate.
Improving uptake in non-attenders of breast screening: selective use of second appointment
Authors: Stead M J , Wallis M G , Wheaton M E
Published: May 2013

Objective To find the most cost and time effective way of increasing uptake by reinvitation of non-attenders after an initial invitation.

Setting Women from the Warwickshire, Solihull, and Coventry breast screening programme who failed to attend their initial invitation.

Method Between October 1996 and February 1997, 2229 women who had failed to attend and had not declined their first invitation to screening were split into two groups according to their Sx number (a number allocated to all women when they are called for screening). Women with an odd number received a “open” invitation asking them to telephone the screening unit for another appointment and women with an even number were given a second “fixed” appointment time. The response of both groups of women was monitored.

Results There was a significant difference (p<0.001) in response to a second invitation between the open invitation and fixed appointment letter (12.3% v 22.8%). The greatest disparities were between those who had attended screening in both preceding rounds and those who had failed to attend either round. Socioeconomic status measured by Townsend scores did not seem to affect the response to second appointments.

Conclusion Second appointments are an important way of increasing screening uptake and thus reducing mortality, which should not be dismissed. The type of invitation is important, with fixed appointments being more effective, and the best predictor of attendance being attendance in the previous screening rounds. This information can be used to allocate resources efficiently to achieve an increased uptake.

Recommendations All women should receive a second invitation, ideally as a timed appointment. However, if this appointment strategy prevents an individual screening programme maintaining a three year cycle, we have identified a group of women for whom a simple reminder letter would maintain increased uptake while allowing savings in appointment scheduling.
Investigation of the effect of occult invasive cancer on progress towards successful cervical screening
Authors: Herbert A , Bryant T N , Campbell M J , Smith J
Published: May 2013

Objectives To describe the effect of occult invasive disease on progress towards meeting the Health of the Nation target for reducing the incidence of cervical cancer, and to investigate the possible effect of a higher risk of cervical cancer in women born since 1940.

Setting Southampton and South West Hampshire (SSWH), with a total female population of 218 549 in 1990, the midpoint of a study period covering 1985 to 1995.

Methods Incidence was calculated per 100 000 women years at risk in overlapping three year periods for symptomatic and screen detected cancers. The same method was used for cohorts of women born before and after 1940. Screen detected stage Ia1 cancers were identified as a subgroup.

Results The incidence of invasive cervical cancer fell by 27.4%, from 16.8 to 12.2 per 100 000 women years at risk between 1985–87 and 1993–95, which was a significant linear trend (χ2=4.494, df=1, p=0.034). The corresponding figures adjusted for age in a standardised European population were 16.3 and 11.5: a fall greater than required to meet the Health of the Nation target set for the year 2000. Incidence remained relatively high until screen detected cancers, more than one third of which were stage Ia1, had passed a peak in 1992. When screen detected stage Ia1 cancers were excluded, incidence fell by 41.2%, from 16.5 to 9.7 per 100 000 women years at risk: a highly significant linear trend (χ2=12.391, df=1, p<0.001). The incidence in the first three years of the study was higher in women born between 1940 and 1954 than in those born between 1925 and 1939, though the reverse would be expected by age and the natural history of the disease. In the 1940–54 birth cohort 44% (23/52) of screen detected cancers were stage Ia1, with a peak in 1992. When these were excluded, incidence fell by 57.1%, from 31.7 to 13.6 per 100 000 women years at risk: a highly significant linear trend (χ2=13.704, df=1, p<0.001), whereas an increase would be expected for a cohort aged from 30–45 to 40–55. In the 1925–39 cohort only 24% (8/33) of screen detected cancers were stage Ia1. When these were excluded, incidence fell by 35.3%, from 24.9 to 16.1, which was not a significant linear trend (χ2=0.409, df=1, p=0.522).

Conclusion An overall decline in incidence was not achieved until prevalent occult invasive disease had been detected by improved screening. The data confirm the effectiveness of screening, particularly in a high risk cohort of women born between 1940 and 1954.
Vision testing in schools: an evaluation of personnel, tests, and premises
Authors: Spowart K M , Simmers A , Tappin D M
Published: May 2013

This study compared the results of vision screening of 5 year olds in schools by school nurses and an orthoptist, compared two tests, and examined testing conditions. The specificity of nurse testing was 95% and the sensitivity 83%. No conclusions about the tests could be made owing to the small numbers in this part of the study, but some children, after nearly one year at school, could not match a line of four letters required for the more accurate test. Only 13 of 22 schools had suitable testing conditions.
Obstacles to timely neonatal screening in North Thames
Authors: Ades A E , Walker J , Jones R , Thompson S , Leonard J V , Smith I
Published: May 2013

Objective To assess the timeliness of neonatal (Guthrie card) screening in North Thames, and to identify the most effective ways of improving it.

Design Analysis of information routinely collected in the course of neonatal screening; reanalysis of published data on blood phenylalanine concentration in phenylketonuria (PKU) over the first two weeks; simulation studies on the impact of different interventions.

Subjects 100 690 infants born over one year and screened at Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Trust. Outcome measureInterval between birth and reading PKU screen results.

Results Although 75% of samples (district range 55–91%) were collected by day 7, only 81% had arrived in the laboratory seven days later (range 57–96%). The average interval between birth and reading results was 14.5 days, with only 9.7% read by day 10. Samples could be collected from day 4 without significant impact on false negative rates for PKU. If samples were collected from day 4 and posted promptly (second class), the average interval between birth and reading results could be reduced to 9.3 days. If first class mail were used and the laboratory operated on Saturdays, and used assays that could be read the same day rather than bacterial inhibition assays, the average would be 7.8 days, with 96% read by day 10.

Conclusion Timeliness of neonatal screening shows unacceptable variation between districts, and delays in dispatch of specimens to the laboratory. Same day, first class posting should be introduced, and samples could be collected between days 4 and 8.
Methodological issues in mammography double reading studies
Authors: Williams L J , Hartswood M , Prescott R J
Published: May 2013

Objectives An examination of the methods used in assessing cancer detection rates in double reading studies to obtain a clear interpretation of the disparate results from differing studies.

Setting National breast screening programmes.

Methods Critical appraisal of methodologies used in the comparison of cancer detection rates with single or double reading.

Results The reported improvement in cancer detection rate with double reading varies greatly between studies, depending upon whether the study is blinded and the statistic used. A method of calculating the increase in cancer detection rate due to a second reader is proposed.
Reduction in breast cancer mortality due to the introduction of mass screening in the Netherlands: comparison with the United Kingdom
Authors: van den Akker-van Marle E. , de Koning H. , Boer R. , van der Maas P.
Published: May 2013

Objective To assess the impact of the national breast cancer screening programme on breast cancer mortality in the first years after its introduction.

Setting The Netherlands and United Kingdom.

Methods —MISCAN models, incorporating demographic, epidemiological, and screening characteristics of the region under study, were used to assess the mortality in the presence and absence of screening.

Results Breast cancer mortality decreased in women aged 55–74 as the Dutch nationwide screening programme built up, and was 5% lower in 1996 than before the start of the programme. The mortality reduction due to screening in the age group 55–74 is expected to increase gradually to 18% in 1999, 10 years after the introduction of screening, and to 29% in the long term. In the United Kingdom screening was expected to achieve a mortality reduction of 5% and 18% in the age group 55–69 five and 10 years respectively after screening was started. A maximum mortality reduction of 24% in this age group is predicted.

Conclusions —The effects of screening will be small in the first years after the start of the programme. Accordingly, it was expected that the reduction in breast cancer mortality due to the Dutch nationwide breast screening programme, which started around 1989, would be statistically significant from 1997 onwards, the point at which the target population of women was completely covered; 70% of the reported 12% mortality reduction in England and Wales in 1994 is expected to be attributed to screening.
Stage distribution at first and repeat examinations in breast cancer screening
Authors: Boer R. , de Koning H. , van Oortmarssen G. , Warmerdam P. , van der Maas P.
Published: May 2013

Objectives To investigate observed stage distributions at first and repeat screenings. To compare the observed outcomes with expected values based on simulation modelling, varying the assumptions about the natural history of the disease.

Methods An overview is made of observed data on stage distribution at first and repeat screenings and the difference between those distributions is summarised in a Gini coefficient. Four possible explanations for the observations are considered, two of these are worked out as Miscan simulation models, and the outcomes are compared with observations.

Results Often the reported stage distributions at repeat screenings are not or only slightly more favourable than at first screenings and, in the ones that are more favourable, the difference is relatively small. If, in the Miscan model, it is assumed that there is no correlation between the duration of preclinical breast cancer in consecutive tumour size categories and that there is a strong influence of latent cancers, it is not possible to reproduce the observed outcomes.

Conclusions The two modelled explanations are not sufficient. Decreasing sensitivity seems an unlikely explanation for the discrepancy in many screening programmes. The possibility that the observations may be explained because false reassurance has been given should be seriously considered and investigated.
The immune effects of multiple antigen peptides containing the mimic epitopes of the adhesion protein ofMycoplasma genitalium
Authors: Zeng Yanhua , You Xiaoxing , Liu Liangzhuan , He Jun , Zhu Cuiming , Yu Minjun , Ma Xiaohua , Wu Yimou
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the humoral and cellular immune responses stimulated by multiple antigen peptides (MAPs) containing the mimic epitopes of Mycoplasma genitalium adhesion protein (MgPa). Three MAPs containing the mimic epitopes of MgPa were synthesized on a branched polylysine matrix. After purification and characterization, these MAPs were used to immunize BALB/c mice. The immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody and the subtype of IgG antibody in the serum of the immunized mice were detected by indirect ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). The proliferation of the spleen lymphocyte was detected using the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. The gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and interleukin-4 (IL-4) levels in the cultured supernatant of spleen lymphocytes were measured by ELISA. The 3 different MAPs were prepared with high purity. Levels of IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a antibodies were elevated in the mice serum immunized by all 3 MAPs. The major antibody isotype was IgG2a. Importantly, mice immunized with a mixture of the 3 MAPs produced significantly more antibodies than those immunized with a single MAP (p < 0.05). Moreover, these MAPs could stimulate the proliferation of spleen lymphocytes of immunized mice and induce the production of IFN-γ and IL-4. The IFN-γ and IL-4 levels stimulated by the mixed MAPs were significantly higher than those stimulated by a single MAP (p < 0.01). The 3 different MAPs could induce strong cellular and humoral immune responses. The immunoreactivity of the mixed MAPs was stronger than that of the single MAP.
IMPORTANCE OF Q-VALUES IN ASTROPHYSICAL RAPID PROTON CAPTURE PROCESS
Authors: LAHIRI CHIRASHREE , GANGOPADHYAY G.
Published: May 2013

The importance of measuring Q-values in rapid proton capture process has been investigated. The microscopic optical model, derived using a nucleon–nucleon interaction and densities from relativistic mean field (RMF) calculations, has been utilized to calculate the reaction rates. It has been observed that the Q-values involved in the reactions at waiting points at A = 60 and 64 are very important in determining the final abundance of the process. Some other Q-values also play a crucial role in the final abundance of nuclei near the end point of the process.
Testosterone induces cell proliferation and cell cycle gene overexpression in human visceral preadipocytes
Authors: Barbosa-Desongles Anna , Hernández Cristina , Simó Rafael , Selva David M.
Published: May 2013

Evidence from the literature suggests that testosterone plays an important role in visceral fat accumulation since both men and women with hyperandrogenism accumulate more adipose tissue in the abdominal cavity than healthy women. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. To shed light on this issue, we have used an in vitro approach to examine the effect of testosterone on human visceral preadipocyte proliferation. Our results showed that testosterone treatment significantly increased proliferation of human visceral preadipocytes in proliferation assays using flow cytometric analysis. We next performed a microarray gene expression analysis of human visceral preadipocytes treated with testosterone or vehicle to identify which genes were involved in the testosterone-induced increase in preadipocyte proliferation. The results showed a total of 140 genes differentially expressed between testosterone vs. vehicle. Among the top 10 upregulated genes, 5 were involved in cellular cycle and proliferation, and 3 (APOBEC3b, CCNA2, and PRC1) were significantly overexpressed by testosterone treatment when analyzed by real-time PCR. We conclude that testosterone exerts a proliferative effect on preadipocytes that may participate in the sex differences in fat distribution and that it may explain visceral fat accumulation in women with hyperandrogenism.
Mitochondria-targeted heme oxygenase-1 decreases oxidative stress in renal epithelial cells
Authors: Bolisetty Subhashini , Traylor Amie , Zarjou Abolfazl , Johnson Michelle S. , Benavides Gloria A. , Ricart Karina , Boddu Ravindra , Moore Ray D. , Landar Aimee , Barnes Stephen , Darley-Usmar Victor , Agarwal Anupam
Published: May 2013

Mitochondria are both a source and target of the actions of reactive oxygen species and possess a complex system of inter-related antioxidants that control redox signaling and protect against oxidative stress. Interestingly, the antioxidant enzyme heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is not present in the mitochondria despite the fact that the organelle is the site of heme synthesis and contains multiple heme proteins. Detoxification of heme is an important protective mechanism since the reaction of heme with hydrogen peroxide generates pro-oxidant ferryl species capable of propagating oxidative stress and ultimately cell death. We therefore hypothesized that a mitochondrially localized HO-1 would be cytoprotective. To test this, we generated a mitochondria-targeted HO-1 cell line by transfecting HEK293 cells with a plasmid construct containing the manganese superoxide dismutase mitochondria leader sequence fused to HO-1 cDNA (Mito-HO-1). Nontargeted HO-1-overexpressing cells were generated by transfecting HO-1 cDNA (HO-1) or empty vector (Vector). Mitochondrial localization of HO-1 with increased HO activity in the mitochondrial fraction of Mito-HO-1 cells was observed, but a significant decrease in the expression of heme-containing proteins occurred in these cells. Both cytosolic HO-1- and Mito-HO-1-expressing cells were protected against hypoxia-dependent cell death and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, but these effects were more pronounced with Mito-HO-1. Furthermore, decrement in production of tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates following hypoxia was significantly mitigated in Mito-HO-1 cells. These data suggest that specific mitochondrially targeted HO-1 under acute pathological conditions may have beneficial effects, but the selective advantage of long-term expression is constrained by a negative impact on the synthesis of heme-containing mitochondrial proteins.
Neural origin of evoked potentials during thalamic deep brain stimulation
Authors: Kent Alexander R. , Grill Warren M.
Published: May 2013

Closed-loop deep brain stimulation (DBS) systems could provide automatic adjustment of stimulation parameters and improve outcomes in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. The evoked compound action potential (ECAP), generated by activated neurons near the DBS electrode, may provide a suitable feedback control signal for closed-loop DBS. The objectives of this work were to characterize the ECAP across stimulation parameters and determine the neural elements contributing to the signal. We recorded ECAPs during thalamic DBS in anesthetized cats and conducted computer simulations to calculate the ECAP of a population of thalamic neurons. The experimental and computational ECAPs were similar in shape and had characteristics that were correlated across stimulation parameters ( R2 = 0.80–0.95, P < 0.002). The ECAP signal energy increased with larger DBS amplitudes ( P < 0.0001) and pulse widths ( P < 0.002), and the signal energy of secondary ECAP phases was larger at 10-Hz than at 100-Hz DBS ( P < 0.002). The computational model indicated that these changes resulted from a greater extent of neural activation and an increased synchronization of postsynaptic thalamocortical activity, respectively. Administration of tetrodotoxin, lidocaine, or isoflurane abolished or reduced the magnitude of the experimental and computational ECAPs, glutamate receptor antagonists 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) and d(−)-2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid (APV) reduced secondary ECAP phases by decreasing postsynaptic excitation, and the GABAA receptor agonist muscimol increased the latency of the secondary phases by augmenting postsynaptic hyperpolarization. This study demonstrates that the ECAP provides information about the type and extent of neural activation generated during DBS, and the ECAP may serve as a feedback control signal for closed-loop DBS.
A Novel Machine Learning Based Method of Combined Dynamic Environment Prediction
Authors: Mao Wentao , Yan Guirong , Dong Longlei
Published: May 2013

In practical engineerings, structures are often excited by different kinds of loads at the same time. How to effectively analyze and simulate this kind of dynamic environment of structure, named combined dynamic environment, is one of the key issues. In this paper, a novel prediction method of combined dynamic environment is proposed from the perspective of data analysis. First, the existence of dynamic similarity between vibration responses of the same structure under different boundary conditions is theoretically proven. It is further proven that this similarity can be established by a multiple-input multiple-output regression model. Second, two machine learning algorithms, multiple-dimensional support vector machine and extreme learning machine, are introduced to establish this model. To test the effectiveness of this method, shock and stochastic white noise excitations are acted on a cylindrical shell with two clamps to simulate different dynamic environments. The prediction errors on various measuring points are all less than ±3 dB, which shows that the proposed method can predict the structural vibration response under one boundary condition by means of the response under another condition in terms of precision and numerical stability.
Comparative Studies on the Interaction of Cochinchinenin A and Loureirin B with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Yang Tianming , Zhang Hao , Fu Haiyan , She Yuanbin , Huang Can , Hu Yan , Wang Liping
Published: May 2013

This paper describes the simple, sensitive, and effective spectrophotometric methods based on ultraviolet, fluorescence and circular dichroism for revealing the interactional mechanism of Cochinchinenin A (CA) and Loureirin B (LB) with bovine serum albumin (BSA). Under simulated physiological conditions, it was demonstrated that the fluorescence quenching mechanisms between CA (or LB) and BSA as a static quenching mode, or a combined quenching (dynamic and static quenching) mode were related to concentration level of CA (or LB). The binding distance (rCA,rLB) and the quenching efficiency (KSV), especially for the binding constants value of ligands to BSA, were affected by the methoxyl group at position 4 at different temperatures. The corresponding thermodynamic parameters were also obtained and indicated that electrostatic forces play a major role in the formation of the LB-BSA complex, but probably a combined force for CA-BSA complex. Furthermore, synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectra demonstrated that the secondary structures of BSA were changed to varying degrees by the binding of CA (or LB).
A New Multiobjective Evolutionary Algorithm for Community Detection in Dynamic Complex Networks
Authors: Chen Guoqiang , Wang Yuping , Wei Jingxuan
Published: May 2013

Community detection in dynamic networks is an important research topic and has received an enormous amount of attention in recent years. Modularity is selected as a measure to quantify the quality of the community partition in previous detection methods. But, the modularity has been exposed to resolution limits. In this paper, we propose a novel multiobjective evolutionary algorithm for dynamic networks community detection based on the framework of nondominated sorting genetic algorithm. Modularity density which can address the limitations of modularity function is adopted to measure the snapshot cost, and normalized mutual information is selected to measure temporal cost, respectively. The characteristics knowledge of the problem is used in designing the genetic operators. Furthermore, a local search operator was designed, which can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of community detection. Experimental studies based on synthetic datasets show that the proposed algorithm can obtain better performance than the compared algorithms.
Osteoid Osteoma with a Multicentric Nidus: Interstitial Laser Ablation under MRI Guidance
Authors: Kaul David , Bonhomme Oriane , Schwabe Phillip , Gebauer Bernhard , Streitparth Florian
Published: May 2013

Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a common benign tumor of the bone and is typically treated by thermal ablation with computed tomography (CT) guidance. Only a few cases of multicentric OO have been described. We here report the case of an 11-year-old boy with multicentric OO of the right femur treated with laser ablation under open high-field MRI guidance. The steps of the interventional MRI procedure are described, discussing the benefits and disadvantages of MRI versus CT guidance especially with regard to younger patients.
Activity Budgets of Impala (Aepyceros melampus) in Closed Environments: The Mukuvisi Woodland Experience, Zimbabwe
Authors: Victor Kurauwone Muposhi , Justice Muvengwi , Beven Utete , Olga Kupika , Simon Chiutsi , Tawanda Tarakini
Published: May 2013

Activity pattern plasticity in ungulates serves as an evolutionary adaptation to optimize fitness in inconsistent environments. Given that time is a limited and valuable resource for foraging wildlife species, provisioning and attraction may affect the activity pattern plasticity and reduce complexities of time partitioning for different activities by impala in closed environments. We assessed activity budgets of free-ranging impala social groups in a closed environment. Social group type had an influence on the activity budgets of impala except for foraging and moving activity states. Both the harem and bachelor groups spent more than 30% of their daily time foraging. Bachelor groups spent more time exhibiting vigilance tendencies than the harem groups. Season influenced the activity budgets of social groups other than vigilance and foraging activity states. Foraging time was highly correlated with vigilance, resting, and grooming. We concluded that provisioning and attraction may have reduced the influence of seasonality on the proportion of time spent on different activity states by impala social groups. There is a need to establish long-term socioecological, physiological, and reproductive consequences of provisioning and habituation on impala under closed environments.
17-β-Estradiol Counteracts the Effects of High Frequency Electromagnetic Fields on Trophoblastic Connexins and Integrins
Authors: Cervellati Franco , Valacchi Giuseppe , Lunghi Laura , Fabbri Elena , Valbonesi Paola , Marci Roberto , Biondi Carla , Vesce Fortunato
Published: May 2013

We investigated the effect of high-frequency electromagnetic fields (HF-EMFs) and 17-β-estradiol on connexins (Cxs), integrins (Ints), and estrogen receptor (ER) expression, as well as on ultrastructure of trophoblast-derived HTR-8/SVneo cells. HF-EMF, 17-β-estradiol, and their combination induced an increase of Cx40 and Cx43 mRNA expression. HF-EMF decreased Int alpha1 andβ1 mRNA levels but enhanced Int alpha5 mRNA expression. All the Ints mRNA expressions were increased by 17-β-estradiol and exposure to both stimuli. ER-βmRNA was reduced by HF-EMF but augmented by 17-β-estradiol alone or with HF-EMF. ER-βimmunofluorescence showed a cytoplasmic localization in sham and HF-EMF exposed cells which became nuclear after treatment with hormone or both stimuli. Electron microscopy evidenced a loss of cellular contact in exposed cells which appeared counteracted by 17-β-estradiol. We demonstrate that 17-β-estradiol modulates Cxs and Ints as well as ER-βexpression induced by HF-EMF, suggesting an influence of both stimuli on trophoblast differentiation and migration.
Numerical Study on the Performance of Double Layer Microchannel with Liquid Gallium and Water
Authors: Sharma Deewakar , Garg Harry , Singh Parbar Pratham , Karar Vinod
Published: May 2013

The performance of liquid gallium and water in the double layer microchannel has been analysed using three-dimensional conjugate heat transfer analysis. The effect of flow rate on the counter and parallel arrangement of each fluid is studied for three different lengths. Furthermore, cooling capability of liquid gallium and water is compared at the same length with flow rate and pumping power as governing parameters. The performance of fluid was judged on the basis of maximum temperature attained and minimal temperature variations at the heated region. Interesting results have been found showing the effect of specific heat on the type of arrangement for liquid gallium with similar observation for water for low Reynolds number and relatively longer length. Among liquid gallium and water, above certain pumping power use of liquid gallium is found to be favourable for a shorter length of the double layer microchannel. Furthermore, the range of flow rate and pumping power showing superior performance with water was found to increase with the length.
Dissipative Output Tracking Control of Linear Systems with Time Delay
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhang Yile , Li Jinghao , Zhu Baoyan
Published: May 2013

The problem of dissipative output tracking control of linear systems with time delay is investigated. Firstly, an augmented system is constructed to describe dissipative output tracking control error, and the concept of dissipative output tracking is defined. Based on this, some sufficient conditions are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) technique, which ensure that the augmented system is dissipative and stable; then design methods of dissipative output tracking state-feedback controller are provided, and the desired controller gain can be expressed through the solutions of LMIs. Finally, a numerical simulation example is given to illustrate the validity of the proposed results.
Solvent-Free Synthesis of Flavour Esters through Immobilized Lipase Mediated Transesterification
Authors: Garlapati Vijay Kumar , Banerjee Rintu
Published: May 2013

The synthesis of methyl butyrate and octyl acetate through immobilizedRhizopus oryzaeNRRL 3562 lipase mediated transesterification was studied under solvent-free conditions. The effect of different transesterification variables, namely, molarity of alcohol, reaction time, temperature, agitation, addition of water, and enzyme amount on molar conversion (%) was investigated. A maximum molar conversion of 70.42% and 92.35% was obtained in a reaction time of 14 and 12 h with the transesterification variables of 0.6 M methanol in vinyl butyrate and 2 M octanol in vinyl acetate using 80 U and 60 U immobilized lipase with the agitation speed of 200 rpm and 0.2% water addition at 32°C and 36°C for methyl butyrate and octyl acetate, respectively. The immobilized enzyme has retained good relative activity (more than 95%) up to five and six recycles for methyl butyrate and octyl acetate, respectively. Hence, the present investigation makes a great impingement in natural flavour industry by introducing products synthesized under solvent-free conditions to the flavour market.
FSH and TSH in the Regulation of Bone Mass: The Pituitary/Immune/Bone Axis
Authors: Colaianni Graziana , Cuscito Concetta , Colucci Silvia
Published: May 2013

Recent evidences have highlighted that the pituitary hormones have profound effects on bone, so that the pituitary-bone axis is now becoming an important issue in the skeletal biology. Here, we discuss the topical evidence about the dysfunction of the pituitary-bone axis that leads to osteoporotic bone loss. We will explore the context of FSH and TSH hormones arguing their direct or indirect role in bone loss. In addition, we will focus on the knowledge that both FSH and TSH have influence on proinflammatory and proosteoclastogenic cytokine expression, such as TNFαand IL-1, underlining the correlation of pituitary-bone axis to the immune system.
Fatal Pulmonary Embolism following Achilles Tendon Repair: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Makhdom Asim M. , Garceau Simon , Dimentberg Ronald
Published: May 2013

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is a significant source of morbidity in orthopaedic surgery. It can progress to a pulmonary embolism, a significant source of mortality. Up to date, patients with Achilles tendon rupture routinely do not receive DVT chemical prophylaxis. We are presenting a case of fatal pulmonary embolism after a surgically treated Achilles tendon rupture in a forty-two-year-old male healthy patient. In the current body of the literature, the reported incidence of DVT after Achilles tendon rupture is highly variable ranging from less than 1% to 34%, and there is a disagreement in the international guidelines regarding the need of chemical DVT prophylaxis with this type of injury. Further research needs to be conducted to investigate the risks and benefits of chemical DVT prophylaxis following Achilles tendon rupture. For low-risk patients, the use of milder forms of prophylaxis such as aspirin should also be explored.
Wide-AreaH∞Control for Damping Interarea Oscillations with Event-Triggered Scheme
Authors: Zhang Yunning , Yue Dong , Hu Songlin
Published: May 2013

An event-triggered scheme is adopted and applied to the design of a centralized wide-areaH∞damping controller (WAHDC) of interconnected power systems with external disturbance. Firstly, based on the linearized multimachine system model, the centralized WAHDC with event-triggered scheme design problem is described as time-delay feedback control problem. Then by using Lyapunov functional method and Jensen inequality technique, criteria for stability with anH∞norm bound and for design of the feedback controller are derived. The linear matrix inequality (LMI) is employed to solve the feedback gain. Finally, case studies are carried out based on two-area four-machine power system. Simulations indicate that the proposed WAHDC with event-triggered scheme can damp the interarea oscillation effectively when the external disturbance is bounded and significantly reduce the number of measured states released to WAHDC. Relationships between event trigger parameterσand dynamic performance,σand network utilization,σand time delay, andσand disturbance rejection level are investigated and results obtained can be used to choose an appropriate event trigger parameter.
ForestSim Model of Impacts of Smallholder Dynamics: Forested Landscapes of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Authors: Mayer Audrey L. , Rouleau Mark D.
Published: May 2013

Many forested landscapes in the United States contain a large number of small private landowners (smallholders). The individual decisions of these smallholders can collectively have a large impact on the structure, composition, and connectivity of forests. While models have been developed to try to understand this large-scale collective impact, few models have incorporated extensive information from individual decision-making. Here we introduce an agent-based model, infused with sociological data from smallholders, overlaid on a GIS layer to represent individual smallholders, and used to simulate the impact of thousands of harvesting decisions. Our preliminary results suggest that certain smallholder characteristics (such as relative smallholder age and education level as well as whether a smallholder is resident or absentee) and information flow among owners can radically impact forests at the landscape scale. While still in its preliminary stages, this modeling approach is likely to demonstrate in detail the consequences of decision-making due to changing smallholder demographics or new policies and programs. This approach can help estimate the effectiveness of programs based on landscape-scale programmatic goals and the impact of new policy initiatives.
Processing and Characterization of Silicon Nitride Nanofiber Paper
Authors: Jen Kei-Peng , Warzoha Ronald , Guo Ji , Tang Michael , Santhanam Sridhar
Published: May 2013

Papers of silicon nitride nanofibers were synthesized by a carbothermal reduction process. These nanofiber papers were synthesized in situ and did not require a secondary processing step. The process utilized silica nanopowders and silica gel as the precursor material. Processing geometry played a crucial role in regulating the growth of the nanofiber papers. Characterization of the nanofiber papers indicated that the nanofibers were of the alpha silicon nitride phase. Both mechanical stiffness and strength of the nanofiber papers were measured. Thermal conductivity and specific heat of the papers were also measured and were found to be lower than many common thermal insulation materials at much smaller thicknesses and were comparable to those values that are typically reported for carbon‐nanotube‐based buckypaper. Results of the mechanical and thermal characterization indicate that these silicon nitride nanofiber papers can be utilized for specialized thermal insulation applications.
A Novel Technique for Closed Reduction and Fixation of Paediatric Calcaneal Fracture Dislocation Injuries
Authors: Faroug Radwane , Stirling Paul , Ali Farhan
Published: May 2013

Paediatric calcaneal fractures are rare injuries usually managed conservatively or with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Closed reduction was previously thought to be impossible, and very few cases are reported in the literature. We report a new technique for closed reduction using Ilizarov half-rings. We report successful closed reduction and screwless fixation of an extra-articular calcaneal fracture dislocation in a 7-year-old boy. Reduction was achieved using two Ilizarov half-ring frames arranged perpendicular to each other, enabling simultaneous application of longitudinal and rotational traction. Anatomical reduction was achieved with restored angles of Bohler and Gissane. Two K-wires were the definitive fixation. Bony union with good functional outcome and minimal pain was achieved at eight-weeks follow up. ORIF of calcaneal fractures provides good functional outcome but is associated with high rates of malunion and postoperative pain. Preservation of the unique soft tissue envelope surrounding the calcaneus reduces the risk of infection. Closed reduction prevents distortion of these tissues and may lead to faster healing and mobilisation. Closed reduction and screwless fixation of paediatric calcaneal fractures is an achievable management option. Our technique has preserved the soft tissue envelope surrounding the calcaneus, has avoided retained metalwork related complications, and has resulted in a good functional outcome.
C‐Glycosidic Genistein Conjugates and Their Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Rusin Aleksandra , Chrubasik Maciej , Papaj Katarzyna , Grynkiewicz Grzegorz , Szeja Wiesław
Published: May 2013

This paper presents our attempt to investigate scopes and the limitations of olefin cross‐metathesis (CM) reaction in the synthesis of complex C‐glycosides of genistein and evaluation of their antiproliferative activities. Novel genistein glycoconjugates were synthesized with the utility of CM reaction initiated by first and second generation of Grubbs catalysts. The relative reactivity of utilized olefins, based on categories proposed by Grubbs, was estimated. In vitro experiments in cancer cell lines showed that the selected derivatives (3a and 3f) exhibited higher antiproliferative potential than the parent compound, genistein, and were able to block the cell cycle in the G2/M phase. The observed mechanism of action of C‐glycosidic derivatives was similar to the activity of their O‐glycosidic counterparts. These compounds were stable in culture medium. The obtained results show that our approach to genistein modification with application of cross‐metathesis reaction allowed to obtain stable glycoconjugates with improved anticancer potential, compared to the parent isoflavone.
Bio-Inspired Distributed Sensing Using a Self-Organizing Sensor Network
Authors: Sreedevi Indu , Mankhand Shubham , Chaudhury Santanu , Bhattacharyya Asok
Published: May 2013

Nature offers several examples of self-organizing systems that automatically adjust to changing conditions without adversely affecting the system goals. We propose a self-organizing sensor network that is inspired from real-life systems for sampling a region in an energy-efficient manner. Mobile nodes in our network execute certain rules by processing local information. These rules enable the nodes to divide the sampling task in a manner such that the nodes self-organize themselves to reduce the total power consumed and improve the accuracy with which the phenomena are sampled. The digital hormone-based model that encapsulates these rules, provides a theoretical framework for examining this class of systems. This model has been simulated and implemented on cricket motes. Our results indicate that the model is more effective than a conventional model with a fixed rate sampling.
A PLIC-VOF-Based Simulation of Water-Organic Slug Flow Characteristics in a T-Shaped Microchannel
Authors: Wang Xian , Hirano Hiroyuki , Xie Gongnan
Published: May 2013

A water-organic slug flow in a T-shaped microchannel was numerically studied due to its importance in the microreactor system. Various factors affecting the flow mode were studied, for example, channel width, fluid viscosity, interfacial tension, and inlet velocity. The volume of fluid (VOF) method was used to track the liquid-liquid interface, and the piecewise-liner interface construction (PLIC) technique was adopted to get a sharp interface. The interfacial tension was simulated with continuum surface force (CSF), model and the wall adhesion boundary condition was taken into consideration. The results show that strong vortexes appear in both phases at the meeting sites of main and lateral channels where an organic slug is producing. Inlet velocity influences the slug length and flow mode greatly. The ratio between the slug lengths of two phases in the main channel is almost equal to the ratio between their inlet velocities. If the slug is produced, the interfacial tension and organic viscosity have less effect on the slug length for 200 μm microchannel. The slug producing rate is much higher in a narrow channel than that in a wide channel.
CX3CL1 Promotes Breast Cancer via Transactivation of the EGF Pathway
Authors: Tardáguila Manuel , Mira Emilia , García-Cabezas Miguel A. , Feijoo Anna M. , Quintela-Fandino Miguel , Azcoitia Iñigo , Lira Sergio A. , Mañes Santos
Published: May 2013

Chemokines are relevant molecules in shaping the tumor microenvironment, although their contributions to tumorigenesis are not fully understood. We studied the influence of the chemokine CX3CL1/fractalkine in de novo breast cancer formation using HER2/neu transgenic mice. CX3CL1 expression was downmodulated in HER2/neu tumors, yet, paradoxically, adenovirus-mediated CX3CL1 expression in the tumor milieu enhanced mammary tumor numbers in a dose-dependent manner. Increased tumor multiplicity was not a consequence of CX3CL1-induced metastatic dissemination of the primary tumor, although CX3CL1 induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells in vitro. Instead, CX3CL1 triggered cell proliferation by induction of ErbB receptors through the proteolytic shedding of an ErbB ligand. This effect was important insofar as mammary tumorigenesis was delayed and tumor multiplicity was reduced by genetic deletion of CX3CL1 in HER2/neu mice, but not in polyoma middle T-antigen oncomice. Our findings support the conclusion that CX3CL1 acts as a positive modifier of breast cancer in concert with ErbB receptors. Cancer Res; 73(14); 4461–73. ©2013 AACR.
Book Reviews
Authors: Selms A. , Bake A.A. , Graaf H.J. , Kunst J. , Drewes G.W.J. , Graaf H.J. , Drewes G.W.J. , Bosch F.D.K. , Stapel F.W. , Teeuw A.
Published: May 2013

- F.D.K. Bosch, H.J. de Graaf, Geschiedenis van Indonesië, N.V. Uitgeverij W. van Hoeve, ‘s-Gravenhage-Bandung, 1949.- F.W. Stapel, H.J. de Graaf, Geschiedenis van Indonesie, N.V. Uitg. Maatschappij W. van Hoeve, ‘s-Gravenhage-Bandung, 1949. 516 blz.- G.W.J. Drewes, A. van Selms, Arabies-Afrikaanse studies I. ‘N tweetalige (Arabiese en Afrikaanse) kategismus (= Mededelingen der Kon. Ned. Akademie van Wetenschappen, Afd. Letterkunde, N.R. dl. 14 No. 1). 120 blz. royaal 8.- G.W.J. Drewes, A. Teeuw, Voltooid voorspel, Indonesische literatuur tussen twee wereldoorlogen. Uitgave van Jajasan Pembangunan, Stichting De Opbouw, Djakarta, 1950. 120 blz. kr. 8.- A.A. Bake, J. Kunst, Music in Java. Martinus Nyhoff, The Hague 1949. Deel I pp. 410 tekst; deel II illustraties, indices, appendices, biblio- en discographie.
A new species from southwestern China of Clematoscenea (Psocoptera: Psocidae), with a key to known species
Authors: LIU LUXI , LI FASHENG , LIU ZHIQI
Published: May 2013

Clematoscenea spinosus sp. n. is described and illustrated as the second species of this genus from China, and an English redescription of C. yunnanica Li is provided. Updated keys are given to the known species, together with distributional data.