bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Outcomes for Patients Who Do and Do Not Undergo Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Stable Coronary Artery Disease in New York
Authors: Hannan Edward L. , Samadashvili Zaza , Cozzens Kimberly , Walford Gary , Jacobs Alice K. , Holmes David R. , Stamato Nicholas J. , Gold Jeffrey P. , Sharma Samin , Venditti Ferdinand J. , Powell Tia , King Spencer B.
Published: March 2012

Background—

Little is known about what treatments patients receive after being diagnosed with stable coronary artery disease or what the comparative outcomes are for routine medical treatment (RMT) versus percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with RMT for patients in a setting apart from randomized controlled trials.

Methods and Results—

Patients with stable coronary artery disease undergoing cardiac catheterization in New York State between 2003 and 2008 were followed up to determine the treatment they received. Patients receiving RMT and patients receiving PCI with RMT were propensity matched through the use of 20 factors that could have a bearing on outcomes. The resulting cohort of 933 matched pairs was used to compare mortality/myocardial infarction (MI), mortality, MI, and subsequent revascularization rates. A total of 89% of all patients underwent PCI with RMT. PCI/RMT patients had significantly lower adverse outcome rates at 4 years for mortality/MI (16.5% versus 21.2%;
P
=0.003), mortality (10.2% versus 14.5%;
P
=0.02), MI (8.0% versus 11.3%;
P
=0.007), and subsequent revascularization (24.1% versus 29.1%;
P
=0.005). Adjusted RMT versus (PCI with RMT) hazard ratios were 1.49 (95% confidence interval, 1.16–1.93) for mortality/MI and 1.46 (95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.97) for mortality. There were no differences for patients ≤65 years of age or for patients with single-vessel disease.

Conclusions—

Most patients with stable coronary artery disease in New York undergoing catheterization between 2003 and 2008 received PCI. Patients who received PCI experienced lower mortality, mortality/MI, and revascularization rates. The reasons for this finding need to be better understood, including the possible role of low medication adherence rates that have been found in other studies.
Intratidal Dynamics of Fronts and Lateral Circulation at the Shoal–Channel Interface in a Partially Stratified Estuary
Authors: Collignon Audric G. , Stacey Mark T.
Published: March 2012

In partially stratified shoal–channel estuaries, variations in bathymetry at the shoal–channel interface generate horizontal shears and density gradients, and foam lines characteristic of convergence fronts are frequently observed. This study is based on transect data collected every 30 min across the shoal–channel interface in south San Francisco Bay to analyze the dynamics of the transverse circulation and convergence fronts at this interface throughout a tidal cycle. During the ebb, a lateral density gradient develops as a result of the competition between differential advection of the longitudinal salinity gradient; lateral variations in vertical mixing; and nonlinear advection terms, which are strongest when convergence fronts develop early and late in the ebb. The lateral circulation over the slope is characterized by a large intratidal variability, reversing three times during the ebb. This variability is driven by a balance dominated by inertia and lateral baroclinic pressure gradient during the ebb but also involving Coriolis and advection terms at leading order. The convergence fronts developing at the edge of the shoal during the ebb are greatly affected by the direction of the lateral circulation on the slope and display similar intratidal variability as a result. Observations from moored instruments suggest that these processes are involved in all partially stratified spring ebbs in south San Francisco Bay and are more sensitive to variations in tidal amplitude than density stratification on the slope.
Velocity Structure of Internal Tide Beams Emanating from Kaena Ridge, Hawaii
Authors: Pickering Andy , Alford Matthew H.
Published: March 2012

Observations are reported of the semidiurnal (M2) internal tide across Kaena Ridge, Hawaii. Horizontal velocity in the upper 1000–1500 m was measured during eleven ~240-km-long shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) transects across the ridge, made over the course of several months. The M2 motions are isolated by means of harmonic analysis and compared to numerical simulations using the Princeton Ocean Model (POM). The depth coverage of the measurements is about 3 times greater than similar past studies, offering a substantially richer view of the internal tide beams. Sloping features are seen extending upward north and south from the ridge and then downward from the surface reflection about ±40 km from the ridge crest, closely matching theoretical M2 ray paths and the model predictions.
Lethal Rejection
Authors: Mbuba Jospeter M.
Published: March 2012

The significance of successful completion of a prison term and the eventual release from prison is that it marks not only the end of incarceration, but also the beginning of a second cycle of societal retribution, which inevitably comes, regardless of whether the former offender is reformed or not. The extent of retribution in the second cycle depends upon the offense type and is more pronounced if the offense was a felony, and particularly so if it was sexually-motivated. This study draws from intensive ethnographic interviews with former prison inmates with the aim of estimating the effect of incarceration on their lives while in prison and after release. The study reveals manifest and latent effects of incarceration and finds that further retribution continues upon release when society takes over with vindictiveness that follows the former offenders almost forever. The main policy implications of long-term imprisonment are made, and areas of further research suggested.
Regional Industrial Recruitment in Upstate New York
Authors: Knudson Paul T.
Published: March 2012

This article, by analyzing a major development initiative undertaken in upstate New York, seeks to broaden our understanding of a dominant model of economic development: industrial recruitment. Whereas prior studies have examined this model mainly within separate, individual communities, this article broadens the analysis to the regional level and examines how regional economic development organizations can help mediate local political fragmentation that can potentially undermine cross-jurisdictional economic development ventures. With this, we explore how these organizations can exploit the bonding and bridging social ties within and between communities to advance a project, the methods they employ to broaden cross-community consensus regarding a project, and how they can potentially mediate political conflict that may arise as a result of a development venture.
Alpha Frequency Estimation in Patients With Epilepsy
Authors: Larsson Pål G. , Eeg-Olofsson Orvar , Lantz Göran
Published: March 2012

We report comparison and assessment of the clinical utility of different automated methods for the estimation of the alpha frequency in electroencephalograph (EEG) and compare them with visual evaluation. A total of 56 consecutive patients, aged 17 to 78 years, who had a routine EEG recording, were included, and they were grouped as patients with epilepsy (Ep) and without epilepsy (nEp). Five different methods were used for alpha frequency estimation: visually guided manual counting and visually guided Fourier transform, and 3 methods were fully automated: time domain estimation of alpha (automatic assessment of alpha waves in time domain [ATD]) and 2 fast Fourier transform (FFT)-based methods, a segmented (automatic assessment of EEG segments by FFT) and one full FFT (automatic assessment of whole EEG by one FFT of the full recording [AWF]). The AWF discriminated significantly between Ep and nEp. Visually guided manual counting showed an almost significant difference independently in the 2 occipital electrodes. The ATD underestimated high frequencies and returned a too low mean frequency. This study shows that AWF is the best suited method for automatic assessment of the alpha frequency.
Using qualitative research findings to analyse how breastfeeding public health recommendations can be tailored to meet the needs of women of Bangladeshi origin living in England
Authors: McFadden Alison , Renfrew Mary J , Atkin Karl
Published: March 2012

Breastfeeding, by improving health outcomes and life chances for women and children, is a key strategy for addressing health inequalities. National evidence-based public health recommendations for breastfeeding exist in the UK ( NICE (2008) Improving the nutrition of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and children in low-income households. NICE public health guidance 11. London: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence). The need to tailor interventions to the needs of diverse disadvantaged population groups is an overarching principle informing these recommendations. However, there is little evidence on how to achieve such tailored services. This qualitative paper examines the breastfeeding experiences of 14 grandmothers, 23 women of Bangladeshi origin and 28 health practitioners to illuminate how public health recommendations can be modified for diverse populations. The findings suggested that while many of the women’s needs were similar to the majority population, much current breastfeeding support is not culturally sensitive. These findings were used to interrogate barriers to implementation of national public health recommendations to promote and support breastfeeding for women and babies from ethnically diverse communities. These included services that do not consider women’s individual needs and expectations, and practitioner stereotypes and assumptions. In addition to informing recommendations for service provision and the education of health practitioners, this analysis offers an example of using qualitative research to scrutinise how national public health recommendations might work for different population groups.
IL-21 inhibits T cell IL-2 production and impairs Treg homeostasis
Authors: Attridge Kesley , Wang Chun Jing , Wardzinski Lukasz , Kenefeck Rupert , Chamberlain Jayne L. , Manzotti Claire , Kopf Manfred , Walker Lucy S. K.
Published: March 2012

Modulation of regulatory T cell (Treg) suppression has important implications for vaccine development, the effectiveness of tumor surveillance, and the emergence of autoimmunity. We have previously shown that the cytokine IL-21 can counteract Treg suppression. However, whether this reflects an effect of IL-21 on Treg, conventional T cells, or antigen-presenting cells is not known. Here we have used lymphocyte populations from IL-21R–deficient mice to pinpoint which cell type needs to be targeted by IL-21 for Treg suppression to be overcome. We show that IL-21 counteracts suppression by acting on conventional T cells and that this is associated with inhibition of IL-2 production. Despite the lack of IL-2, conventional T-cell responses proceed unimpaired because IL-21 can substitute for IL-2 as a T cell growth factor. However, IL-21 is unable to substitute for IL-2 in supporting the Treg compartment. Thus, IL-21 signaling in conventional T cells indirectly impacts Treg homeostasis by decreasing IL-2 availability. These data demonstrate that IL-21 and IL-2 can have overlapping roles in promoting conventional T-cell responses but play distinct roles in controlling Treg homeostasis and function. The data also suggest a new paradigm whereby cytokines can promote immunity by inhibiting IL-2.
Functionally distinct subsets of human FOXP3+ Treg cells that phenotypically mirror effector Th cells
Authors: Duhen Thomas , Duhen Rebekka , Lanzavecchia Antonio , Sallusto Federica , Campbell Daniel J.
Published: March 2012

FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are a broadly acting and potent anti-inflammatory population of CD4+ T cells essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing debilitating autoimmunity. Based on chemokine receptor expression, we identified distinct populations of Treg cells in human blood expected to colocalize with different Th cell subsets. Although each population was functionally suppressive, they displayed unique patterns of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, differentially expressed lineage-specifying transcription factors, and responded differently to antigens associated with Th1 and Th17 responses. These results highlight a previously unappreciated degree of phenotypic and functional diversity in human Treg cells that allows subsets with unique specificities and immunomodulatory functions to be targeted to defined immune environments during different types of inflammatory responses.
DNGR-1 is a specific and universal marker of mouse and human Batf3-dependent dendritic cells in lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues
Authors: Poulin Lionel F. , Reyal Yasmin , Uronen-Hansson Heli , Schraml Barbara U. , Sancho David , Murphy Kenneth M. , Håkansson Ulf K. , Ferreira Moita Luis , Agace William W. , Bonnet Dominique , Reis e Sousa Caetano
Published: March 2012

Mouse CD8α+ dendritic cells (DCs) in lymphoid organs and CD103+ CD11b− DCs in nonlymphoid tissues share phenotypic and functional similarities, as well as a unique shared developmental dependence on the transcription factor Batf3. Human DCs resembling mouse CD8α+ DCs in phenotype and function have been identified in human blood, spleen, and tonsil. However, it is not clear whether such cells are also present in human nonlymphoid organs, and their equivalence to mouse CD8α+ DC has recently been questioned. Furthermore, the identification of “CD8α+ DC-like” cells across different tissues and species remains problematic because of the lack of a unique marker that can be used to unambiguously define lineage members. Here we show that mouse CD8α+ DCs and CD103+ CD11b− DCs can be defined by shared high expression of DNGR-1 (CLEC9A). We further show that DNGR-1 uniquely marks a CD11b− human DC population present in both lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues of humans and humanized mice. Finally, we demonstrate that knockdown of Batf3 selectively prevents the development of DNGR-1+ human DCs in vitro. Thus, high expression of DNGR-1 specifically and universally identifies a unique DC subset in mouse and humans. Evolutionarily conserved Batf3 dependence justifies classification of DNGR-1hi DCs as a distinct DC lineage.
Immunohistochemical investigation of Foxp3 expression in the intestine in healthy and diseased dogs
Authors: Junginger Johannes , Schwittlick Ulrike , Lemensieck Frederik , Nolte Ingo , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion
Published: March 2012

Intestinal immune regulation including development of oral tolerance is of great importance for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis. Concerning this, regulatory T cells (Tregs) occupy a pivotal role in cell-mediated immunosuppression. Dysregulation of mucosal immunology leading to an abnormal interaction with commensal bacteria is suggested to play a key role in the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in men and dogs. The aim of this study was to characterise the expression of Foxp3 in the normal canine gut of 18 dogs (mean age: 6.03 years), in 16 dogs suffering from IBD (mean age: 5.05 years), and of 6 dogs with intestinal nematode infection (mean age: 0.87 years) using immunohistochemistry. In the duodenum, Tregs in healthy dogs declined from villi (median: 10.67/62 500 μm2) to crypts (median: 1.89/62 500 μm2). Tregs were further increased in the villi of middle-aged dogs (median: 18.92/62 500 μm2) in contrast to juvenile (median: 3.50/62 500 μm2) and old (median: 9.56/62 500 μm2) individuals. Compared to healthy controls, animals suffering from IBD revealed reduced numbers of Tregs in duodenal villi (median: 4.13/62 500 μm2). Dogs with intestinal nematode infection displayed increased numbers of Tregs (median: 21.06/62 500 μm2) compared to healthy animals.

Age-related changes indicate a progressive establishment of oral tolerance and immunosenescence in the canine elderly. The results further suggest that a defect in Treg homeostasis may be involved in the pathogenesis of canine IBD. In contrast, increased numbers of Tregs in the duodenum may be due to nematode infection.
Amelioration of diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in rats by Mn-salen complexes via reduction of oxidative stress
Authors: Rezazadeh Alireza , Yazdanparast Razieh , Molaei Mahsa
Published: March 2012

Background

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a progressive stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is characterized by steatosis (accumulation of triacylglycerols within hepatocytes) along with inflammation and ballooning degeneration. It has been suggested that oxidative stress may play an important role in the progress of NAFLD to NASH. The aim of present study was to determine whether antioxidant supplementations using EUK-8, EUK-134 and vitamin C could improve the biochemical and histological abnormalities associated with diet-induced NASH in rats.

Methods

NASH was induced in male N-Mary rats by feeding a methionine - choline deficient (MCD) diet. The rats were fed either normal chow or MCD diet for 10 weeks. After NASH development, the MCD-fed rats were randomly divided into four groups of six: the NASH group that received MCD diet, the EUK-8 group which was fed MCD diet plus EUK-8, the EUK-134 group which was fed MCD diet plus EUK-134 and the vitamin C group which received MCD diet plus vitamin C. EUK-8, EUK-134 and vitamin C (30 mg/kg body weight/day) were administered by gavage for eight weeks.

Results

Treatment of MCD-fed rats with salens reduced the sera aminotransferases, cholesterol, low density lipoprotein contents, the extent of lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation whereas the HDL-C cholesterol levels were significantly increased. In addition, EUK-8 and EUK-134 improved steatosis, ballooning degeneration and inflammation in liver of MCD-fed rats.

Conclusion

Antioxidant (EUK-8, EUK-134 and vitamin C) supplementation reduces NASH-induced biochemical and histological abnormalities, pointing out that antioxidant strategy could be beneficial in treatment of NASH.
Loss of nonsense mediated decay suppresses mutations in Saccharomyces cerevisiae TRA1
Authors: Kvas Stephanie , Gloor Gregory B , Brandl Christopher J
Published: March 2012

Background

Tra1 is an essential protein inSaccharomyces cerevisiae. It was first identified in the SAGA and NuA4 complexes, both with functions in multiple aspects of gene regulation and DNA repair, and recently found in the ASTRA complex. Tra1 belongs to the PIKK family of proteins with a C-terminal PI3K domain followed by a FATC domain. Previously we found that mutation of leucine to alanine at position 3733 in the FATC domain of Tra1 (tra1-L3733A) results in transcriptional changes and slow growth under conditions of stress. To further define the regulatory interactions of Tra1 we isolated extragenic suppressors of thetra1-L3733Aallele.

Results

We screened for suppressors of the ethanol sensitivity caused bytra1-L3733A. Eleven extragenic recessive mutations, belonging to three complementation groups, were identified that partially suppressed a subset of the phenotypes caused by tra1-L3733A. Using whole genome sequencing we identified one of the mutations as an opal mutation at tryptophan 165 ofUPF1/NAM7. Partial suppression of the transcriptional defect resulting fromtra1-L3733Awas observed atGAL10, but not atPHO5. Suppression was due to loss of nonsense mediated decay (NMD) since deletion of any one of the three NMD surveillance components (upf1/nam7, upf2/nmd2, orupf3) mediated the effect. Deletion ofupf1suppressed a second FATC domain mutation,tra1-F3744A, as well as a mutation to the PIK3 domain. In contrast, deletions of SAGA or NuA4 components were not suppressed.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated a genetic interaction betweenTRA1and genes of the NMD pathway. The suppression is specific for mutations inTRA1. Since NMD and Tra1 generally act reciprocally to control gene expression, and the FATC domain mutations do not directly affect NMD, we suggest that suppression occurs as the result of overlap and/or crosstalk in these two broad regulatory networks.
Calpain 3 is important for muscle regeneration: Evidence from patients with limb girdle muscular dystrophies
Authors: Hauerslev Simon , Sveen Marie-Louise , Duno Morten , Angelini Corrado , Vissing John , Krag Thomas O
Published: March 2012

Background

Limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) type 2A is caused by mutations in the CAPN3 gene and complete lack of functional calpain 3 leads to the most severe muscle wasting. Calpain 3 is suggested to be involved in maturation of contractile elements after muscle degeneration. The aim of this study was to investigate how mutations in the four functional domains of calpain 3 affect muscle regeneration.

Methods

We studied muscle regeneration in 22 patients with LGMD2A with calpain 3 deficiency, in five patients with LGMD2I, with a secondary reduction in calpain 3, and in five patients with Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) with normal calpain 3 levels. Regeneration was assessed by using the developmental markers neonatal myosin heavy chain (nMHC), vimentin, MyoD and myogenin and counting internally nucleated fibers.

Results

We found that the recent regeneration as determined by the number of nMHC/vimentin-positive fibers was greatly diminished in severely affected LGMD2A patients compared to similarly affected patients with LGMD2I and BMD. Whorled fibers, a sign of aberrant regeneration, was highly elevated in patients with a complete lack of calpain 3 compared to patients with residual calpain 3. Regeneration is not affected by location of the mutation in the CAPN3 gene.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that calpain 3 is needed for the regenerative process probably during sarcomere remodeling as the complete lack of functional calpain 3 leads to the most severe phenotypes.
A proteome map of primary cultured rat Schwann cells
Authors: Shen Mi , Ji Yuhua , Zhang Shuqiang , Shi Haiyan , Chen Gang , Gu Xiaosong , Ding Fei
Published: March 2012

Background

Schwann cells (SCs) are the principal glial cells of the peripheral nervous system with a wide range of biological functions. SCs play a key role in peripheral nerve regeneration and are involved in several hereditary peripheral neuropathies. The objective of this study was to gain new insight into the whole protein composition of SCs.

Results

Two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (2D LC-MS/MS) was performed to identify the protein expressions in primary cultured SCs of rats. We identified a total of 1,232 proteins, which were categorized into 20 functional classes. We also used quantitative real time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis to validate some of proteomics-identified proteins.

Conclusion

We showed for the first time the proteome map of SCs. Our data could serve as a reference library to provide basic information for understanding SC biology.
Formation polarity dependent improved resistive switching memory characteristics using nanoscale (1.3 nm) core-shell IrOx nano-dots
Authors: Banerjee Writam , Maikap Siddheswar , Lai Chao-Sung , Chen Yi-Yan , Tien Ta-Chang , Lee Heng-Yuan , Chen Wei-Su , Chen Frederick T , Kao Ming-Jer , Tsai Ming-Jinn , Yang Jer-Ren
Published: March 2012

Improved resistive switching memory characteristics by controlling the formation polarity in an IrOx/Al2O3/IrOx-ND/Al2O3/WOx/W structure have been investigated. High density of 1 × 1013/cm2 and small size of 1.3 nm in diameter of the IrOx nano-dots (NDs) have been observed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The IrOx-NDs, Al2O3, and WOx layers are confirmed by X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy. Capacitance-voltage hysteresis characteristics show higher charge-trapping density in the IrOx-ND memory as compared to the pure Al2O3 devices. This suggests that the IrOx-ND device has more defect sites than that of the pure Al2O3 devices. Stable resistive switching characteristics under positive formation polarity on the IrOx electrode are observed, and the conducting filament is controlled by oxygen ion migration toward the Al2O3/IrOx top electrode interface. The switching mechanism is explained schematically based on our resistive switching parameters. The resistive switching random access memory (ReRAM) devices under positive formation polarity have an applicable resistance ratio of > 10 after extrapolation of 10 years data retention at 85°C and a long read endurance of 105 cycles. A large memory size of > 60 Tbit/sq in. can be realized in future for ReRAM device application. This study is not only important for improving the resistive switching memory performance but also help design other nanoscale high-density nonvolatile memory in future.
Carpet-dust chemicals as measures of exposure: Implications of variability
Authors: Whitehead Todd P , Nuckols John R , Ward Mary H , Rappaport Stephen M
Published: March 2012

Background

There is increasing interest in using chemicals measured in carpet dust as indicators of chemical exposures. However, investigators have rarely sampled dust repeatedly from the same households and therefore little is known about the variability of chemical levels that exist within and between households in dust samples.

Results

We analyzed 9 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, 6 polychlorinated biphenyls, and nicotine in 68 carpet-dust samples from 21 households in agricultural communities of Fresno County, California collected from 2003-2005. Chemical concentrations (ng per g dust) ranged from < 2-3,609 for 9 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, from < 1-150 for 6 polychlorinated biphenyls, and from < 20-7,776 for nicotine. We used random-effects models to estimate variance components for concentrations of each of these carpet-dust chemicals and calculated the variance ratio, λ, defined as the ratio of the within-household variance component to the between-household variance component. Subsequently, we used the variance ratios calculated from our data, to illustrate the potential effect of measurement error on the attenuation of odds ratios in hypothetical case-control studies. We found that the median value of the estimated variance ratios was 0.33 (range: 0.13-0.72). Correspondingly, in case-control studies of associations between these carpet-dust chemicals and disease, given the collection of only one measurement per household and a hypothetical odds ratio of 1.5, we expect that the observed odds ratios would range from 1.27 to 1.43. Moreover, for each of the chemicals analyzed, the collection of three repeated dust samples would limit the expected magnitude of odds ratio attenuation to less than 20%.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that attenuation bias should be relatively modest when using these semi-volatile carpet-dust chemicals as exposure surrogates in epidemiologic studies.
Prevalence and risk factors of feline leukaemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus in peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Bande Faruku , Arshad Siti Suri , Hassan Latiffah , Zakaria Zunita , Sapian Nurul Asyikin , Rahman Noor Alimah , Alazawy Amer
Published: March 2012

Background

Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are major causes of morbidity and mortality in domestic and wild felids. Despite the clinical importance of feline retroviruses and the growing interest in cats as pets, information about FeLV and FIV in Malaysia is presently insufficient to properly advise veterinarians and pet owners. A cross-sectional study was carried out from January 2010 to December 2010 to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with FeLV and FIV among domestic cats in peninsular Malaysia. Plasma samples were harvested from the blood of 368 domestic cats and screened for evidence of FeLV p27 antigen and FIV antibodies, using an immunochromatographic kit. Additionally, data on cat demographics and health were collected using a structured questionnaire, and were evaluated as potential risk factors for FeLV or FIV status.

Results

Of the 368 cats that were evaluated in this study, 12.2% (45/368; 95% CI = 8.88 - 15.58) were positive for FeLV p27 antigen, 31.3%, (115/368; 95% CI = 26.51 - 35.99) were seropositive to FIV antibodies, and 4.3% (16/368; 95% CI = 2.27 - 6.43) had evidence of both viruses. Factors found to significantly increase the risk for FeLV seropositivity include sex, age, behaviour, sickness, and living in a multi-cat household. Seropositive response to FIV was significantly associated with sex, neuter status, age, behaviour, and health status.

Conclusions

The present study indicates that FeLV and FIV are common among domestic cats in peninsular Malaysia, and that factors related to cat demographics and health such as age, sex, behaviour, health status and type of household are important predictors for seropositive status to FeLV or FIV in peninsular Malaysia. High prevalence of FeLV or FIV observed in our study is of concern, in view of the immunosuppressive potentials of the two pathogens. Specific measures for control and prevention such as screening and routine vaccination are needed to ensure that FeLV and FIV are controlled in the cat population of peninsular Malaysia.
Joint petrophysical inversion of electromagnetic and full-waveform seismic data
Authors: Gao Guozhong , Abubakar Aria , Habashy Tarek M.
Published: March 2012

Accurate determination of reservoir petrophysical parameters is of great importance for reservoir monitoring and characterization. We developed a joint inversion approach for the direct estimation of in situ reservoir petrophysical parameters such as porosity and fluid saturations by jointly inverting electromagnetic and full-waveform seismic measurements. Full-waveform seismic inversions allow the exploitation of the full content of the data so that a more accurate geophysical model can be inferred. Electromagnetic data are linked to porosity and fluid saturations through Archie’s equations, whereas seismic data are linked to them through rock-physics fluid-substitution equations. For seismic modeling, we used an acoustic approximation. Sensitivity studies combined with inversion tests show that seismic data are mainly sensitive to porosity distribution, whereas electromagnetic data are more sensitive to fluid-saturation distribution. The separate inversion of electromagnetic or seismic data is highly nonunique and thus leads to great ambiguity in the determination of porosity and fluid saturations. In our approach, we used a Gauss-Newton algorithm equipped with the multiplicative regularization and proper data-weighting scheme. We tested the implemented joint petrophysical inversion method using various synthetic models for surface and crosswell measurements. We found that the joint inversion approach provides substantial advantage for an improved estimation of porosity and fluid-saturation distributions over the one obtained from the separate inversion of electromagnetic and seismic data. This advantage is achieved by significantly reducing the ambiguity on the determination of porosity and fluid saturations using multiphysics measurements. We also carried out a study on the effects of using inaccurate petrophysical transform parameters on the inversion results. Our study demonstrated that up to 20% errors in the saturation and porosity exponents in Archie’s equations do not cause significant errors in the inversion results. On the other hand, if the bulk modulus and density of the rock matrix have a large percentage of errors (i.e., more than 5%), the inversion results will be significantly degraded. However, if the density of the rock matrix has an error of less than 2%, the joint inversion can tolerate a large percentage of errors in the bulk modulus of the rock matrix.
Trends in prescriptions and costs of drugs for mental disorders
in England, 1998–2010
Authors: Ilyas Stephen , Moncrieff Joanna
Published: March 2012

Background

Increasing rates of prescriptions for antidepressants, antipsychotics and
stimulants have been reported from various countries.

Aims

To examine trends in prescriptions and the costs of all classes of
psychiatric medication in England.

Method

Data from the Prescription Cost Analysis 1998–2010 was examined, using
linear regression analysis to examine trends.

Results

Prescriptions of drugs used for mental disorders increased by 6.8% (95%
CI 6.3–7.4) per year on average, in line with other drugs, but made up an
increasing proportion of all prescription drug costs (P
= 0.001). There were rising trends in prescriptions of all classes of
psychiatric drugs, except anxiolytics and hypnotics (which did not
change). Antidepressant prescriptions increased by 10% (95% CI 9.0–11)
per year on average, and antipsychotics by 5.1% (95% CI 4.3–5.9).
Antipsychotics overtook antidepressants as the most costly class of
psychiatric medication, with costs rising 22% (95% CI 17–27) per
year.

Conclusions

Rising prescriptions may be partly explained by longer-term treatment and
increasing population. Nevertheless, it appears that psychiatric drugs
make an increasing contribution to total prescription drug costs, with
antipsychotics becoming the most costly. Low-dose prescribing of some
antipsychotics is consistent with other evidence that their use may not
be restricted to those with severe mental illness.
Helicobacter pyloriCagA induces ornithine decarboxylase upregulation via Src/MEK/ERK/c-Myc pathway: implication for progression of gastric diseases
Authors: Xu Xia , Liu Zhifang , Fang Ming , Yu Han , Liang Xiuming , Li Xinpeng , Liu Xianxi , Chen Chunyan , Jia Jihui
Published: March 2012

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) dysregulates the expression of various genes resulting in gastric precursor lesions and cancer. Meanwhile, ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) is a key enzyme that catalyzes the formation of polyamines which are critical for cell growth. So far, the possible regulation of ODC by H. pylori and its virulence factors, and the associated mechanism in gastric epithelial cells remains undefined. In the present study, we found that cellular ODC protein was upregulated by wild-type H. pylori infection and ectopic expression of a cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA). As a negative control, there was no such effect by cagA-mutant H. pylori infection. Results of signal protein inhibitor treatment demonstrated that the Src, MEK (mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) pathway was involved. Moreover, when c-Myc was inhibited, the stimulatory effect of CagA on ODC expression was abolished. Clinically, a positive correlation between c-Myc and ODC expression was observed in patient-derived abnormal gastric tissues. These results implied that the Src/MEK/ERK/c-Myc pathway was required for CagA-mediated ODC induction. Finally, inhibition of ODC expression led to decreased foci formation of gastric epithelial cells before and after H. pylori infection, and ODC protein was over-expressed in precancerous gastric lesions and primary gastric cancer. Collectively, our findings provide new insights into the mechanism behind H. pylori-infection-associated gastric diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Shea Butter through Inhibition of Inos, Cox-2, and Cytokines via the Nf-Kb Pathway in Lps-Activated J774 Macrophage Cells
Authors: Verma Nandini , Chakrabarti Rina , Das Rakha H. , Gautam Hemant K.
Published: March 2012

Shea butter is traditionally used in Africa for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. In this study we explored the anti-inflammatory activities of the methanolic extract of shea butter (SBE) using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine macrophage cell line J774. It was observed that SBE significantly reduced the levels of LPS-induced nitric oxide, Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukins, 1β (IL-1β), and -12 (IL-12) in the culture supernatants in a dose dependent manner. Expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were also inhibited by SBE. These anti-inflammatory effects were due to an inhibitory action of SBE on LPS-induced iNOS, COX-2, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-12 mRNA expressions. Moreover, SBE efficiently suppressed IκBα phosphorylation and NF-κB nuclear translocation induced by LPS. These findings explain the molecular bases of shea butter’s bioactivity against various inflammatory conditions and substantiate it as a latent source of novel therapeutic agents.
A New Voltage and Frequency Controller for Standalone Parallel Operated Self Excited Induction Generators
Authors: Chilipi Rajasekhara Reddy , Singh Bhim , Murthy Srinivasa
Published: March 2012

This work proposes a new voltage and frequency controller (VFC) for standalone parallel operated self excited induction generators driven by uncontrolled micro hydro turbines. This VFC consists of a current controlled static compensator (STATCOM) for regulating the voltage during different load conditions and a variable frequency induction motor drive driving a water pump operating as an electronic load controller (ELC) for balancing the generated power, which in turn regulates the system frequency. The STATCOM functions as a reactive power compensator for regulating the system voltage and an active filter for harmonics elimination. The control algorithm of STATCOM is based on the synchronous reference frame (SRF) theory.
Indirect Effects in Cost-Benefit Analysis
Authors: Rouwendal Jan
Published: March 2012

The debate about the effectiveness of investments in public infrastructure initiated by Aschauer suggests that there may be substantial discrepancies between the results of conventional cost-benefit analysis and the ultimate effects of such investments on welfare. This paper takes a closer look at this issue by investigating the existence of secondary or indirect effects under conditions of monopolistic competition. We find that such effects will in general exist, and that they are potentially large, but that they can also be negative, depending on the specification of the model. With linear demand curves, indirect effects can be positive, zero or negative, with Dixit-Stiglitz they are always nonnegative and closely related to the taste for diversity, while with the logit model they are always identically zero. Free entry reinforces the positive indirect effects in the Dixit-Stiglitz model, and causes negative indirect effects in the logit model. Given this variety of results, robust empirical measurement of the indirect effects appears to be difficult.
Physical properties and culture-specific factors as principles of semantic categorisation of the Gújjolaay Eegimaa noun class system
Authors: Sagna, Serge
Published: March 2012

This paper investigates the semantic bases of class membership in the noun class system of Gújjolaay Eegimaa (Eegimaa henceforth), a Niger-Congo and Atlantic language of the BAK group spoken in Southern Senegal. The question of whether semantic principles underlie the overt classification of nouns in Niger-Congo languages is a controversial one. There is a common perception of Niger-Congo noun class systems as being mainly semantically arbitrary. The goal of the present paper is to show that physical properties and culture-specific factors are central principles of semantic categorisation in the Eegimaa noun class system. I argue that the Eegimaa overt grammatical classification of nouns into classes is a semantic categorisation system whereby categories are structured according to prototypicality, family resemblance, metaphorical and metonymic extensions and chaining processes, as argued within the framework of Cognitive Linguistics. I show that the categorisation of entities in the Eegimaa nominal classification system productively makes use of physical properties such as shape as well as using culture-specific, less productive parameters for the semantic categorisation of entities denoted by nouns. The analysis proposed here also shows that the cases of multiple morphosyntactic classifications of nouns reflect multiple conceptual categorisation strategies. A detailed examination of the formal and semantic instances of multiple classification reveals the existence of conceptual correlations between the physical properties and the culture-specific semantic parameters of categorisation used in the Eegimaa noun class system.
Weitzenböck derivations of nilpotency 3
Authors: Wehlau David L.
Published: March 2012

We consider a Weitzenböck derivation Δ acting on a polynomial ring

R
=
K
[

ξ
1

,

ξ
2

,
...
,

ξ
m

]

$
R=K[\xi _1,\xi _2,\ldots ,\xi _m]
$

over a field K of characteristic 0. The K-algebra

R
Δ

=

{
h
∈
R
∣
Δ

(
h
)

=
0
}

${R^\Delta = \lbrace h \in R \mid \Delta (h) = 0\rbrace }$

is called the algebra of constants. Nowicki considered the case where the Jordan matrix for Δ acting on R
1, the degree 1 component of
R, has only Jordan blocks of size 2. He conjectured that a certain set generates

R
Δ

$R^{\Delta }$

in that case. Recently Khoury,
Drensky and Makar-Limanov
and Kuroda
have given proofs of Nowicki's conjecture. Here we consider the case where the Jordan matrix for Δ acting on R
1 has only Jordan blocks of size at most
3. We use combinatorial methods to give a minimal set of generators 𝒢 for the algebra of constants

R
Δ

$R^{\Delta }$

.
Moreover, we show how our proof yields an algorithm to express any

h
∈

R
Δ

$h \in R^\Delta $

as a polynomial
in the elements of 𝒢. In particular, our solution shows how the classical techniques of polarization and restitution may be used to augment the techniques of SAGBI bases to construct generating sets for subalgebras.
The distribution of the logarithm in an orthogonal and
a symplectic family of L-functions
Authors: Hough Bob
Published: March 2012

We consider the logarithm of the central value

log
L
(
1
/
2
)

$\log L(1/2)$

in the orthogonal
family

{
L

(
s
,
f
)

}

f
∈

H
k

$\lbrace L(s,f)\rbrace _{f \in H_k}$

where Hk
is the set of weight k Hecke-eigen
cusp forms for

SL
2

(
ℤ
)

$\text{SL}_2(\mathbb {Z})$

, and in the symplectic family

{
L

(
s
,

χ

8
d

)

}

d
≍
D

$\lbrace L(s,\chi _{8d})\rbrace _{d
\asymp D}$

where

χ

8
d

$\chi _{8d}$

is the real character associated to fundamental
discriminant

8
d

$8d$

. Unconditionally, we prove that the two distributions are
asymptotically bounded above by Gaussian distributions, in the first case of
mean

-
1
/
2
log
log
k

$-1/2 \log \log k$

and variance

log
log
k

$\log \log k$

, and in the second case of
mean

1
/
2
log
log
D

$1/2\log \log D$

and variance

log
log
D

$\log \log D$

. Assuming both the Riemann and
Zero Density Hypotheses in these families we obtain the full normal law in both
families, confirming a conjecture of Keating and Snaith.
Efficiency Enhancement in Hybrid P3HT/Silicon Nanocrystal Solar Cells
Authors: Niesar Sabrina , Fabian Wolfgang , Petermann Nils , Herrmann Daniel , Riedle Eberhard , Wiggers Hartmut , Brandt Martin S. , Stutzmann Martin
Published: March 2012

Hybrid organic-inorganic solar cells from poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and freestanding silicon nanocrystals (Si-ncs) combine the advantages of silicon-based photovoltaics with the cost-efficient solution processing technique. At present, the microwave-plasma synthesis of Si-ncs that allows for a future upscaling to industrial demands is at the expense of the Si-nc surface quality and the number of charge-trapping defects. Here, we present an enhancement of the solar cell performance by identifying the major factors which are limiting the device efficiency. With the help of low-cost post-growth treatments of the Si-ncs and the optimization of various device parameters, P3HT:Si-ncs bulk heterojunction solar cells with an efficiency up to 1.1% are achieved. In particular, etching of the Si-ncs with hydrofluoric acid to remove the surface oxide shells and surface defects has a strong impact on the solar cell performance. An intermediate Si weight ratio of around 60% is found to lead to the highest current densities. For Si-ncs with very small diameters, an additional enhancement of the open circuit voltage was observed. Moreover, we show that the structural order of P3HT has a strong influence on the efficiency, which can be explained by an improved charge carrier separation at the P3HT/Si-ncs interface in combination with an enhanced charge transport in the P3HT phase.
Synthesis, regiochemistry and molecular structure of spiro[2,2′]indane-1′,3′-dione-pyrrolizidine compounds
Authors: Chen Gang , Gu Xuefan , Ma Chao
Published: March 2012

Spiro[2,2′]indane-1′,3′-dione-3-methoxycarbonyl-3-methylpyrrolizidine (compound A) and spiro[2,2′]indane-1′,3′-dione-3-(o-chlorophenyl)-4-nitropyrrolizidine (compound B) were synthesized by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition with different regioselectivity. The two compounds were characterized by NMR, MS and single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. Compound A crystallizes in the monoclinic space group, P2(1)/n, with unit cell dimensions a=10.204(6) Å, b=14.888(9) Å, and c=10.750(6) Å, α=90.00° β=95.081(6)°, γ=90.00° and Z=4. Compound B crystallizes in the triclinic space group, P-1, with unit cell dimensions a=7.6074(4) Å, b=9.7454(5) Å, and c=12.6538(7) Å, α=85.313(2)°, β=84.217(2)°, γ=86.571(2)° and Z=2.
Fast and efficient method for the synthesis of 2-arylbenzimidazoles using MCM-41-SO3H
Authors: Mahdavinia Gholam Hossein , Rostamizadeh Shahnaz , Amani Ali Mohammad , Sepehrian Hamid
Published: March 2012

Nanosized MCM-41-SO3H material based on ordered mesoporous silica gel with covalently attached sulfonic acid groups was synthesized and used as acid catalyst for green synthesis of 2-substituted benzimidazole derivatives. Echo-friendly protocol, short reaction times, easy and quick isolation of the products, and excellent yields are the main advantages of this procedure.
On Product Difference Fibonacci Identities
Authors: Melham R. S.
Published: March 2012

Simson's identity is a well-known Fibonacci identity in which the difference of certain order 2 products has a particularly pleasing form. Other old and beautiful identities of a similar nature are attributed to Catalan, Gelin and Cesàro, and Tagiuri. Catalan's identity can be described as a family of
Bijective Proofs of Vajda's Ninetieth Fibonacci Number Identity and Related Identities
Authors: Shar Nathaniel
Published: March 2012

This article provides the first bijective proof for a previously “uncounted” Fibonacci number identity of Vajda. Bijections on similar sets that illustrate a related family of Fibonacci number identities are also considered.
A Property of Twin Primes
Authors: Aebi Christian , Cairns Grant
Published: March 2012

We determine the product of the invertible quadratic residues in
Fibonacci Variations of a Conjecture of Polignac
Authors: Jones Lenny
Published: March 2012

In 1849, Alphonse de Polignac conjectured that every odd positive integer can be written in the form
On monotone 2-groups
Authors: Crestani Eleonora , Menegazzo Federico
Published: March 2012

For a finite group
Centralizers of subgroups in simple locally finite groups
Authors: Ersoy Kıvanç , Kuzucuoğlu Mahmut
Published: March 2012

Hartley asked the following question: Is the centralizer of every finite subgroup in a simple non-linear locally finite group infinite? We answer a stronger version of this question for finite 𝒦-semisimple subgroups. Namely let

Moreover we prove that if
Correlation of Cyr61 and CTGF in placentas from the late pre-eclamptic pregnancy
Authors: Chen Xi , Liu Yanyan , Xu Xiaoyan , Chen Hanping
Published: March 2012

It is thought that a shallow invasion of the maternal decidua by extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) is associated with the development of pre-eclampsia. Here, we focus on the expression of the proangiogenic proteins Cyr61 and CTGF in the human placenta during normal pregnancy compared with that in the late pre-eclamptic placenta. Cyr61 and CTGF are expressed in the extravillous trophoblast and in endothelial cells. We found the expression of Cyr61 was significantly decreased in pre-eclamptic placentas compared with matched controls. In contrast, the CTGF expression level was upregulated in pre-eclamptic placentas. There was a negative correlation between Cyr61 and CTGF. These results suggest that decreased Cyr61 and overexpressed CTGF may play a part in the development of pre-eclampsia.