bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled thermopiezoelectric behaviour of a one-dimensional functionally graded piezoelectric medium based on C–T theory
Authors: Akbarzadeh A H , Babaei M H , Chen Z T
Published: July 2011

In this article, the transient thermopiezoelectric behaviour of a one-dimensional (1D) functionally graded piezoelectric medium subjected to a moving heat source is investigated. The formulation is given based on the Chandrasekhariah and Tzou (C–T) generalized thermoelasticity theory to consider the details of energy transport in the material in comparison with the Lord–Shulman (L–S) generalized theory. All material properties are taken to vary exponentially along the length of the medium except for phase lags, the relaxation time, and the specific heat, which are taken to be constant. The governing partial differential equations are given in the three coupled fields of displacement, temperature, and electric potential based on the C–T theory. Using Laplace transform to eliminate the time dependency of the problem, an analytical method is presented to obtain the coupled fields in the Laplace domain. The solutions are then derived in time domain by employing the fast Laplace inversion technique. Numerical results are shown to display the effects of discontinuities on the temperature and stress distribution, non-homogeneity index and the phase-lag constants of heat flux and temperature gradient on the wave propagation of temperature and stress fields based on the dual-phase-lag model of the C–T. Furthermore, the results are compared between the C–T and L–S thermoelasticity theories. Finally, the results are validated with those reported in the literature.
Optimal guidance law and control of impact angle for the kinetic kill vehicle
Authors: Xu X-Y , Cai Y-L
Published: July 2011

In order to increase the effectiveness of the kinetic kill vehicle (KKV), control of impact angle is required in the terminal engagement. The purpose of this research is to achieve an optimal guidance law (OGL) with a specified impact angle as well as zero terminal miss distance. An energy OGL based on a simplified mathematical model to achieve the performance of the KKV is presented. Numerical simulation is used to analyse the performance of the guidance law. The results show that the proposed law has higher accuracy, larger capture zone, and lesser energy consumption than the conventional proportional navigation guidance laws. Moreover, the influence of the initial heading angle is discussed, and the capture zone of both the initial heading angle and the terminal impact angle are given.
Energy-optimal low-thrust satellite formation manoeuvre in presence of J2 perturbation
Authors: Wu B-L , Wang D-W , Poh E K
Published: July 2011

This article proposes a method to determine energy-optimal low-thrust trajectories for satellite formation manoeuvre in the presence of the J2 effect. This manoeuvre is cast as a non-linear optimization problem with a desired final satellite formation configuration subjecting to collision avoidance constraint. With this proposed approach, the deputy satellite is manoeuvred into a quasi-periodic desired final formation with respect to the chief satellite in the presence of the J2 effect. Resulting non-linear optimal control problem is converted into non-linear programming (NLP) problem by a direct transcription method called Legendre pseudospectral method. The NLP problem is then solved using a sparse non-linear optimization algorithm. Simulation results validate the proposed optimal trajectory design for formation manoeuvres in the presence of the J2 effect.
Young’s modulus repeatability assessment using cycling compression loading on cancellous bone
Authors: Guérard S , Chevalier Y , Moreschi H , Defontaine M , Callé S , Mitton D
Published: July 2011

For various applications, precision of the Young’s modulus of cancellous bone specimens is needed. However, measurement variability is rarely given. The aim of this study was to assess the Young’s modulus repeatability using a uniaxial cyclic compression protocol on embedded specimens of human cancellous bone. Twelve specimens from 12 human calcanei were considered. The specimens were first defatted and then 1 or 2 mm at the ends were embedded in an epoxy resin. The compression experiment consists in applying 20 compressive cycles between 0.2 per cent and 0.6 per cent strain with a 2 Hz loading frequency. The coefficient of variation of the current protocol was found to be 1.2 per cent. This protocol showed variability similar to the end-cap technique (considered as a reference). It can be applied on porous specimen (especially human bone) and requires minimal bone length to limit end-artifact variability. The current method could be applied in association with noninvasive measurements (such as ultrasound) with full compatibility. This possibility opens the way for bone damage follow-up based on Young’s modulus monitoring.
Insomnia and Physical Activity in Adults With Prediabetes
Authors: Chasens Eileen R. , Yang Kyeongra
Published: July 2011

This secondary analysis study examines the relationship between physical activity and symptoms of insomnia among adults with prediabetes ( N = 958) from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The sample of participants were generally obese, middle-aged, and racially diverse. NHANES questions included symptoms of insomnia, sleep duration, and sleep latency. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from measured height and weight; at least 2 days of ActiGraph™ activity monitor data determined mean steps walked. Men walked more steps than women; however, women had more insomnia symptoms. There were significant associations between insomnia symptoms and increased sleep latency and decreased sleep duration. Multiple regression analysis showed that younger age, lower BMI, higher self-rated health, high school education, and fewer insomnia symptoms were significantly related to increased steps walked. The findings indicate that insomnia in adults with prediabetes may be a barrier to their adapting an active lifestyle.
Focal multiple sclerosis lesions abound in ‘normal appearing white matter’
Authors: Mistry Niraj , Tallantyre Emma C , Dixon Jennifer E , Galazis Nicolas , Jaspan Tim , Morgan Paul S , Morris Peter , Evangelou Nikos
Published: July 2011

Background: The ‘normal appearing white matter’ (NAWM) in multiple sclerosis (MS) is known to be abnormal using quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) techniques. The aetiology of the changes in NAWM remains debatable.

Objective: To investigate whether high-field and ultra high-field T1-weighted magnetization prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo (MPRAGE) MRI enables detection of MS white matter lesions in areas defined as NAWM using high-field T2-weighted fluid attenuation inversion recovery (FLAIR) MRI; that is, to ascertain whether undetected lesions are likely contributors to the burden of abnormality in similarly defined NAWM.

Methods: Fourteen MS patients underwent MRI scans using 3T FLAIR and MPRAGE and 7 Tesla (7T) MPRAGE sequences. Independent observers identified lesions on 3T FLAIR and (7T and 3T) MPRAGE images. The detection of every individual lesion was then compared for each image type.

Results: We identified a total of 812 white matter lesions on 3T FLAIR. Using 3T MPRAGE, 186 additional lesions were detected that were not detected using 3T FLAIR. Using 7T MPRAGE, 231 additional lesions were detected that were not detected using 3T FLAIR.

Conclusions: MRI with 3T and 7T MPRAGE enables detection of MS lesions in areas defined as NAWM using 3T FLAIR. Focal MS lesions contribute to the abnormalities known to exist in the NAWM.
The impact of the Advancing Social-communication And Play (ASAP) intervention on preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Dykstra Jessica R. , Boyd Brian A. , Watson Linda R. , Crais Elizabeth R. , Baranek Grace T.
Published: July 2011

This study evaluates an intervention targeting social-communication and play skills (Advancing Social-communication And Play; ASAP) implemented by school staff in a public preschool setting. With increases in enrollment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in school systems, establishing the effectiveness and feasibility of interventions implemented in school settings is important. In clinical settings, interventions targeting social-communication and play behaviors have increased these skills and impacted later language abilities. Results of this single-case design study indicated the ASAP intervention had a positive impact on social-communication and play skills for three preschoolers with ASD. All participants showed either increases in frequency or more stability in targeted behaviors. Social validity results provide additional support for the use of ASAP with preschoolers with ASD.
Fatigue, wellbeing and parental self-efficacy in mothers of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Giallo Rebecca , Wood Catherine E , Jellett Rachel , Porter Rachelle
Published: July 2011

Raising a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents significant challenges for parents that potentially have a impact on their health and wellbeing. The current study examined the extent to which parents experience fatigue and its relationship to other aspects of wellbeing and parenting. Fifty mothers of children with an ASD aged 2–5 years participated in the study. Compared with mothers of typically developing children, mothers of children with an ASD reported significantly higher fatigue, with overall scores in the moderate range. Factors associated with high levels of fatigue were poor maternal sleep quality, a high need for social support and poor quality of physical activity. Fatigue was also significantly related to other aspects of wellbeing, including stress, anxiety and depression, and lower parenting efficacy and satisfaction. The need for interventions to specifically target parental fatigue and its impact on families affected by ASDs both in the short and long term is clearly indicated.
Historical Antecedents as Precedents for Nanotechnology Vocational Education Training and Workforce Development
Authors: Yawson Robert
Published: July 2011

In an attempt to inform how to approach nanotechnology vocational education training (nanoVET), this article briefly discusses the history of the development of vocational education training (VET) in the United States during the past century. The history of nanotechnology development and the current advances in this emerging field are discussed in the context of workforce development and the challenges it poses to human resource development (HRD) professionals. Concerned with the lack of educators and educational policy experts in the dialogue on nanotechnology and the need for multi-, trans-, and inter-disciplinary employability skills curricula for nanotechnology, this article argues for a different approach to VET that endorses the democratic ideals proposed by Dewey, in preparing students for challenges in nanotechnology careers. The article argues that the multi-, trans-, and inter-disciplinary nature of nanotechnology require that nanoVET should be guided by history and be modeled within the comprehensive democratic approach advanced by Dewey. The article concludes with a discussion on the implications for HRD practice, research, and theory.
Iliac Artery Occlusion With “Oxbow Lake” Formation Following Stent Deployment in a Tortuous External Iliac Artery During EVAR
Authors: Culverwell Adam D. , Kent Patrick , Puppala Sapna
Published: July 2011

In this case report, we describe a complication that we term the “oxbow lake” deformity. This phenomenon occurs when a tortuous elongated external iliac artery segment is artificially straightened by an iliac stent resulting in kinking and compression of a redundant loop with lumen compromise. We describe the anatomy, corrective treatment, and outcome. This occurrence is potentially foreseeable with tortuous vascular anatomy and recognition can allow appropriate management planning avoiding complications for the patient.
Obesity is not an Independent Risk Factor for Adverse Perioperative and Long-Term Clinical Outcomes Following Open AAA Repair or EVAR
Authors: Park Brian , Dargon Phong , Binette Christopher , Babic Bruna , Thomas Tina , Divinagracia Thomas , Dahn Michael S. , Menzoian James O.
Published: July 2011

Objectives: Moderate (body mass index [BMI] ≥30) and morbid obesity (BMI ≥35) is increasing at an alarming rate in vascular surgery patients. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of obesity on perioperative and long-term clinical outcomes following open abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: This review includes patients that underwent open AAA repair (n = 403) or EVAR (n = 223) from 1999 to 2009. Specific patient characteristics such as comorbid diseases, medications, and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. Specific perioperative outcomes such as length of stay, myocardial infarctions, and mortality were reviewed. In addition, long-term outcomes such as rates of reintervention, permanent renal dysfunction, and mortality beyond 30 days were also assessed. Results: The incidence of obesity in open AAA patients was 25.3% (documented incidence 1.5%) and for EVAR was 24.6% (documented incidence 4%). Moderate and morbid obesity was associated with longer intensive care unit (ICU) admissions for both open AAA or EVAR patients ( P < .05). However, no significant differences in perioperative outcomes in terms of overall length of stay, myocardial infarction, acute renal failure, wound infections, or mortality were noted between obese and nonobese patients underoing open AAA repair or EVAR ( P > .05). Similarly, moderate and morbid obesity was not associated with significant differences in rates of reintervention, permanent renal dysfunction, and mortality beyond 30 days for patients undergoing open AAA repair or EVAR ( P > .05). Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that moderate and morbid obesity are not independently associated with adverse perioperative and long-term clinical outcomes for patients undergoing open AAA repair or EVAR. Therefore, either open AAA repair or EVAR can be accomplished safely in moderately obese and morbidly obese patients.
Distress among Indigenous North Americans
Authors: Walls Melissa L. , Whitbeck Les B.
Published: July 2011

Stress process and life-course models of mental distress emphasize sociocultural and historical processes that influence stress exposure and the impact of stress on mental health outcomes. Drawing from these theoretical orientations as well as concepts from the historical trauma literature, the authors examine the effects of culturally relevant and more generalized sources of stress on distress among North American Indigenous adults and test for the potential cumulative and interactive effects of stress on distress across the life course via self-reported early childhood and adult and contemporary stressors. Results of ordinary least squares regression analyses reveal positive, significant associations between general stressors and distress as well as culturally meaningful stressors and distress. In addition, the authors found evidence of the accumulating and interactive impact of stress on psychological distress.
A protocol for enumeration of aquatic viruses by epifluorescence microscopy using Anodisc™ 13 membranes
Authors: Budinoff Charles R , Loar Star N , LeCleir Gary R , Wilhelm Steven W , Buchan Alison
Published: July 2011

Background

Epifluorescence microscopy is a common method used to enumerate virus-like particles (VLP) from environmental samples and relies on the use of filter membranes with pore sizes < 0.02 μm; the most commonly used protocols employ 25 mm Anodisc™ membranes with a built-in support ring. Other filters with small pore sizes exist, including the 13 mm Anodisc™ membranes without a support ring. However, the use of these membranes for viral enumeration has not been previously reported.

Results

Here we describe a modified protocol for 13 mm Anodisc membranes that uses a custom filter holder that can be readily constructed in individual investigators' laboratories from commercially available Swinnex® filter holders. We compared VLP concentrations obtained from phage lysates and seawater samples using both Anodisc membranes, as well as Nuclepore™ small pore-size membranes (0.015 or 0.030 μm). The 13 mm Anodisc membranes gave comparable estimates of VLP abundance to those obtained with the 25 mm Anodisc membranes when similar staining methods were employed. Both Nuclepore membranes typically gave an order of magnitude lower VLP abundance values for environmental samples.

Conclusions

The 13 mm Anodisc membranes are less costly and require smaller sample volumes than their 25 mm counterpart making them ideal for large-scale studies and sample replication. This method increases the options of reliable approaches available for quantifying VLP from environmental samples.
Non-specific symptoms as clues to changes in emotional well-being
Authors: Matalon Andre , Kotliroff Andy , Blumberg Gari , Yaphe John , Kitai Eliezer
Published: July 2011

Background -

Somatic symptoms are a common reason for visits to the family physician. The aim of this study was to examine the relation between non-specific symptoms and changes in emotional well-being and the degree to which the physician considers the possibility of mental distress when faced with such patients.

Methods -

Patients who complained of two or more symptoms including headache, dizziness, fatigue or weakness, palpitations and sleep disorders over one year were identified from the medical records of a random sample of 45 primary care physicians. A control group matched for gender and age was selected from the same population. Emotional well-being was assessed using the MOS-SF 36 in both groups.

Results -

The study group and the control group each contained 110 patients. Completed MOS questionnaires were obtained from 92 patients, 48 patients with somatic symptoms and 44 controls. Sixty percent of the patients with somatic symptoms experienced decreased emotional well being compared to 25% in the control group (p = 0.00005). Symptoms of dizziness, fatigue and sleep disturbances were significantly linked with mental health impairments. Primary care physicians identified only 6 of 29 patients (21%) whose responses revealed functional limitations due to emotional problems as suffering from an emotional disorder and only 6 of 23 patients (26%) with a lack of emotional well being were diagnosed with an emotional disorder.

Conclusions -

Non-specific somatic symptoms may be clues to changes in emotional well-being. Improved recognition and recording of mental distress among patients who complain of these symptoms may enable better follow up and treatment.
ATA homozigosity in the IL-10gene promoter is a risk factor for schizophrenia in Spanish females: a case control study
Authors: Almoguera Berta , Riveiro-Alvarez Rosa , Lopez-Castroman Jorge , Dorado Pedro , Lopez-Rodriguez Rosario , Fernandez-Navarro Pablo , Baca-García Enrique , Fernandez-Piqueras Jose , Dal-Ré Rafael , Abad-Santos Francisco , LLerena Adrián , Ayuso Carmen ,   Spanish Consortium of Pharmacogenetics Research in Schizophrenia
Published: July 2011

Background

ThreeIL-10gene promoter single nucleotide polymorphisms-1082G > A, -819C > Tand-592C > Aand the haplotypes they define in Caucasians,GCC, ACC, ATA, associated with different IL-10 production rates, have been linked to schizophrenia in some populations with conflicting results. On the basis of the evidence of the sex-dependent effect of certain genes in many complex diseases, we conducted a sex-stratified case-control association study to verify the linkage of theIL-10gene promoter SNPs and haplotypes with schizophrenia and the possible sex-specific genetic effect in a Spanish schizophrenic population.

Methods

241 DSM-IV diagnosed Spanish schizophrenic patients and 435 ethnically matched controls were genotyped for-1082G > Aand-592C > ASNPs. Chi squared tests were performed to assess for genetic association of alleles, genotypes and haplotypes with the disease.

Results

The-1082Aallele (p = 0.027),A/A(p = 0.008) andATA/ATA(p = 0.003) genotypes were significantly associated with schizophrenia in females while neither allelic nor genotypic frequencies reached statistical significance in the male population.

Conclusions

Our results highlight the hypothesis of an imbalance towards an inflammatory syndrome as the immune abnormality of schizophrenia. Anyway, a better understanding of the involvement of the immune system would imply the search of immune abnormalities in endophenotypes in whose sex and ethnicity might be differential factors. It also reinforces the need of performing complex gene studies based on multiple cytokine SNPs, including anti and pro-inflammatory, to clarify the immune system abnormalities direction in the etiology of schizophrenia.
Monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) and CD147 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis in prostate cancer
Authors: Pértega-Gomes Nelma , Vizcaíno José R , Miranda-Gonçalves Vera , Pinheiro Céline , Silva Joana , Pereira Helena , Monteiro Pedro , Henrique Rui M , Reis Rui M , Lopes Carlos , Baltazar Fátima
Published: July 2011

Background

Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are transmembrane proteins involved in the transport of monocarboxylates across the plasma membrane, which appear to play an important role in solid tumours, however the role of MCTs in prostate cancer is largely unknown. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the clinico-pathological value of monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) expression, namely MCT1, MCT2 and MCT4, together with CD147 and gp70 as MCT1/4 and MCT2 chaperones, respectively, in prostate carcinoma.

Methods

Prostate tissues were obtained from 171 patients, who performed radical prostatectomy and 14 patients who performed cystoprostatectomy. Samples and clinico-pathological data were retrieved and organized into tissue microarray (TMAs) blocks. Protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in neoplastic (n = 171), adjacent non-neoplastic tissues (n = 135), PIN lesions (n = 40) and normal prostatic tissue (n = 14). Protein expression was correlated with patients' clinicopathologic characteristics.

Results

In the present study, a significant increase of MCT2 and MCT4 expression in the cytoplasm of tumour cells and a significant decrease in both MCT1 and CD147 expression in prostate tumour cells was observed when compared to normal tissue. All MCT isoforms and CD147 were expressed in PIN lesions. Importantly, for MCT2 and MCT4 the expression levels in PIN lesions were between normal and tumour tissue, which might indicate a role for these MCTs in the malignant transformation. Associations were found between MCT1, MCT4 and CD147 expressions and poor prognosis markers; importantly MCT4 and CD147 overexpression correlated with higher PSA levels, Gleason score and pT stage, as well as with perineural invasion and biochemical recurrence.

Conclusions

Our data provides novel evidence for the involvement of MCTs in prostate cancer. According to our results, we consider that MCT2 should be further explored as tumour marker and both MCT4 and CD147 as markers of poor prognosis in prostate cancer.
Polysaccharides from Agaricus bisporus and Agaricus brasiliensis show similarities in their structures and their immunomodulatory effects on human monocytic THP-1 cells
Authors: Smiderle Fhernanda R , Ruthes Andrea C , van Arkel Jeroen , Chanput Wasaporn , Iacomini Marcello , Wichers Harry J , Van Griensven Leo JLD
Published: July 2011

Background

Mushroom polysaccharides have traditionally been used for the prevention and treatment of a multitude of disorders like infectious illnesses, cancers and various autoimmune diseases. Crude mushroom extracts have been tested without detailed chemical analyses of its polysaccharide content. For the present study we decided to chemically determine the carbohydrate composition of semi-purified extracts from 2 closely related and well known basidiomycete species, i.e.Agaricus bisporusandA. brasiliensisand to study their effects on the innate immune system, in particular on thein vitroinduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, using THP-1 cells.

Methods

Mushroom polysaccharide extracts were prepared by hot water extraction and precipitation with ethanol. Their composition was analyzed by GC-MS and NMR spectroscopy. PMA activated THP-1 cells were treated with the extracts under different conditions and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines was evaluated by qPCR.

Results

Semi-purified polysaccharide extracts ofA. bisporusandA. brasiliensis(=blazei) were found to contain (1→6),(1→4)-linked α-glucan, (1→6)-linked β-glucan, and mannogalactan. Their proportions were determined by integration of1H-NMR signs, and were considerably different for the two species.A. brasiliensisshowed a higher content of β-glucan, whileA. bisporuspresented mannogalactan as its main polysaccharide. The extracts induced a comparable increase of transcription of the pro-inflammatory cytokine genes IL-1β and TNF-α as well as of COX-2 in PMA differentiated THP-1 cells. Pro-inflammatory effects of bacterial LPS in this assay could be reduced significantly by the simultaneous addition ofA. brasiliensisextract.

Conclusions

The polysaccharide preparations from the closely related speciesA. bisporusandA. brasiliensisshow major differences in composition:A. bisporusshows high mannogalactan content whereasA. brasiliensishas mostly β-glucan. Semi-purified polysaccharide extracts from bothAgaricusspecies stimulated the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, while the polysaccharide extract ofA. brasiliensisreduced synthesis of these cytokines induced by LPS, suggesting programmable immunomodulation.
The effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids in alcohol dependence treatment - a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study
Authors: Fogaça Marina N , Santos-Galduróz Ruth F , Eserian Jaqueline K , Galduróz José Carlos F
Published: July 2011

Background

The lipid fraction of cell membranes consists of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAS), and chronic alcohol use alters it, modifying its permeability, what might contribute for the dysfunctional metabolism observed in the central nervous system of alcohol dependent patients. Therefore, the supplementation of PUFAS can be an important adjuvant in alcoholism treatment.

Methods

This was a placebo controlled, double blind, randomized study where, 80 alcohol dependent patients, according to DSM-IV, were allocated in four groups with 20 patient each: 'PUFAS', 'Naltrexone', 'Naltrexone + PUFAS' and 'Placebo'. Those substances were administered for 90 days and scales were applied to assess patients craving (OCDS) and alcohol dependence severity (SADD) at baseline and after 90 days. PUFAS serum levels were assessed before and after treatment by high performance liquid chromatography assay.

Results

Forty-three patients completed the trial. There was a significant improvement over time on drinking days, SADD and OCDS scores in all groups (p < 0.001). The drinking days comparison between groups did not show statistical significant difference. The same effect was observed for compulsion (OCDS) and severity of dependence scale (SADD). The serum levels of PUFAS increased in all the supplemented groups after treatment, although not significantly.

Conclusions

The oral supplementation of 2 g PUFAS for 3 months did not significantly differ from placebo in reducing the amount of alcohol ingestion, or OCDS and SADD scores in a group of alcohol dependent patient.

Trial registration

NCT01211769
Effect of α-linolenic acid on endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis of palmitic acid lipotoxicity in primary rat hepatocytes
Authors: Zhang Yong , Yang Xia , Shi Hongyang , Dong Lei , Bai Jian
Published: July 2011

Background

Hepatic inflammation and degeneration induced by lipid depositions may be the major cause of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this study, we investigated the effects of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (FA) on apoptosis in primary rat hepatocytes.

Methods

The primary rat hepatocytes were treated with palmitic acid and/or α-linolenic acid in vitro. The expression of proteins associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, caspase-3 levels were detected after the treatment.

Results

The treatment with palmitic acid produced a significant increase in cell death. The unfolded protein response (UPR)-associated genes CHOP, GRP78, and GRP94 were induced to higher expression levels by palmitic acid. Co-treatment with α-linolenic acid reversed the apoptotic effect and levels of all three indicators of ER stress exerted by palmitic acid. Tunicamycin, which induces ER stress produced similar effects to those obtained using palmitic acid; its effects were also reversed by α-linolenic acid.

Conclusions

α-Linolenic acid may provide a useful strategy to avoid the lipotoxicity of dietary palmitic acid and nutrient overload accompanied with obesity and NAFLD.
Biobanking after robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy: a quality assessment of providing prostate tissue for RNA studies
Authors: Dev Harveer , Rickman David , Sooriakumaran Prasanna , Srivastava Abhishek , Grover Sonal , Leung Robert , Kim Robert , Kitabayashi Naoki , Esqueva Raquel , Park Kyung , Padilla Jessica , Rubin Mark , Tewari Ashutosh
Published: July 2011

Background

RNA quality is believed to decrease with ischaemia time, and therefore open radical prostatectomy has been advantageous in allowing the retrieval of the prostate immediately after its devascularization. In contrast, robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomies (RALP) require the completion of several operative steps before the devascularized prostate can be extirpated, casting doubt on the validity of this technique as a source for obtaining prostatic tissue. We seek to establish the integrity of our biobanking process by measuring the RNA quality of specimens derived from robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Methods

We describe our biobanking process and report the RNA quality of prostate specimens using advanced electrophoretic techniques (RNA Integrity Numbers, RIN). Using multivariate regression analysis we consider the impact of various clinicopathological correlates on RNA integrity.

Results

Our biobanking process has been used to acquire 1709 prostates, and allows us to retain approximately 40% of the prostate specimen, without compromising the histopathological evaluation of patients. We collected 186 samples from 142 biobanked prostates, and demonstrated a mean RIN of 7.25 (standard deviation 1.64) in 139 non-stromal samples, 73% of which had a RIN ≥ 7. Multivariate regression analysis revealed cell type - stromal/epithelial and benign/malignant - and prostate volume to be significant predictors of RIN, with unstandardized coefficients of 0.867(p = 0.001), 1.738(p < 0.001) and -0.690(p = 0.009) respectively. A mean warm ischaemia time of 120 min (standard deviation 30 min) was recorded, but multivariate regression analysis did not demonstrate a relationship with RIN within the timeframe of the RALP procedure.

Conclusions

We demonstrate the robustness of our protocol - representing the concerted efforts of dedicated urology and pathology departments - in generating RNA of sufficient concentration and quality, without compromising the histopathological evaluation and diagnosis of patients. The ischaemia time associated with our prostatectomy technique using a robotic platform does not negatively impact on biobanking for RNA studies.
Convergence theorems of solutions of a generalized variational inequality
Authors: Yu Li , Liang Ma
Published: July 2011

The convex feasibility problem (CFP) of finding a point in the nonempty intersection "Equation missing" is considered, where r ≥ 1 is an integer and each C
m
is assumed to be the solution set of a generalized variational inequality. Let C be a nonempty closed and convex subset of a real Hilbert space H. Let A
m
, B
m
: C → H be relaxed cocoercive mappings for each 1 ≤ m ≤ r. It is proved that the sequence {x
n
} generated in the following algorithm:

"Equation missing"

where u ∈ C is a fixed point, {α
n
}, {β
n
}, {γ
n
}, {δ(1,n)}, ..., and {δ(r,n)} are sequences in (0, 1) and "Equation missing", "Equation missing" are positive sequences, converges strongly to a solution of CFP provided that the control sequences satisfies certain restrictions.

2000 AMS Subject Classification: 47H05; 47H09; 47H10.
Common fixed points for some generalized multivalued nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex metric spaces
Authors: Laowang Worawut , Panyanak Bancha
Published: July 2011

Abkar and Eslamian (Nonlinear Anal. TMA,74, 1835-1840, 2011) prove that ifKis a nonempty bounded closed convex subset of a complete CAT(0) spaceX,t:K→Kis a single-valued quasi-nonexpansive mapping andT:K→KC(K) is a multivalued mapping satisfying conditions (E) and (Cλ) for someλ∈ (0, 1) such thattandTcommute weakly, then there exists a pointz∈Ksuch thatz=t(z) ∈T(z). In this paper, we extend this result to the general setting of uniformly convex metric spaces. Nevertheless, condition (E) ofTcan be weakened to the strongly demiclosedness ofI-T.
Myelin-phagocytosing macrophages modulate autoreactive T cell proliferation
Authors: Bogie Jeroen FJ , Stinissen Piet , Hellings Niels , Hendriks Jerome JA
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) in which macrophages play a central role. Initially, macrophages where thought to be merely detrimental in MS, however, recent evidence suggests that their functional phenotype is altered following myelin phagocytosis. Macrophages that have phagocytosed myelin may be less inflammatory and may exert beneficial effects. The presence of myelin-containing macrophages in CNS-draining lymph nodes and perivascular spaces of MS patients suggests that these cells are ideally positioned to exert an immune regulatory role. Therefore we evaluated in this study the effect of myelin-phagocytosing macrophages on lymphocyte reactivity.

Methods

Thioglycolate-elicited rat peritoneal macrophages were loaded with myelin and cocultured with myelin-basic protein (MBP) or ovalbumin (OVA) reactive lymphocytes. Lymphocyte proliferation was determined by CFSE-labeling. The role of nitric oxide in regulating lymphocyte proliferation was assessed by addition of an inhibitor of inducible nitric oxide synthase to the coculture.In vivoimmune regulation was investigated by treating MBP- and OVA-immunized animals subcutaneously with myelin. Cognate antigen specific lymphocyte proliferation and nitric oxide production were determined 9d post-immunization.

Results

In this study we demonstrate that myelin-phagocytosing macrophages inhibit TCR-triggered lymphocyte proliferation in an antigen-independent manner. The observed immune suppression is mediated by an increase in NO production by myelin-phagocytosing macrophages upon contact with lymphocytes. Additionally, myelin delivery to primarily CD169+macrophages in popliteal lymph nodes of OVA-immunized animals results in a reduced cognate antigen specific proliferation. In contrast to OVA-immunized animals, lymphocytes from MBP-immunized animals displayed an increased proliferation after stimulation with their cognate antigen, indicating that myelin-phagocytosing macrophages have dual effects depending on the specificity of surrounding lymphocytes.

Conclusions

Collectively our data show that myelin phagocytosis leads to an altered macrophage function that inhibits lymphocyte proliferation. Additionally, results from this study indicate that myelin-phagocytosing macrophages fulfill a dual rolein vivo. On one hand they aggravate autoimmunity by activating myelin-reactive lymphocytes and on the other hand they suppress lymphocyte reactivity by producing NO.
Parosteal osteosarcoma mimicking osteochondroma: A radio-histologic approach on two cases
Authors: Papathanassiou Zafiria G , Alberghini Marco , Thiesse Philippe , Gambarotti Marco , Bianchi Giuseppe , Tranfaglia Cristina , Vanel Daniel
Published: July 2011

Objective

Parosteal osteosarcoma is a well-differentiated variant of osteosarcoma that affects the surface of the bone. The imaging pattern is very typical. We report two cases mimicking an osteochondroma, radiologically and histologically and propose an explanation.

Material

The review of 86 parosteal osteosarcomas of bone revealed this atypical pattern only once. A consultation case was received in the same time, and added to ours. Patients were 28 years old and 56 years old females. Imaging studies included two radiographs, two CTscans, one MRI examination and one bone scan and the results were compared to histology.

Results

On imaging, both lesions presented as ossified lobulated masses attached with a broad base to the underlying cortex. No radiolucent cleft separated the masses and the host bone and cortex continuity between the mass and the femur was seen, with medullary communication. The marrow of the mass had a different density and intensity compared to normal marrow. So, there were features of an osteochondroma (cortex and medullary continuity) and of a parosteal osteosarcoma (ossified marrow). Pathological assessment on the final specimen confirmed the presence of low-grade parosteal osteosarcomas, after an erroneous diagnosis of osteochondroma on the initial biopsy.

Conclusions

Parosteal osteosarcoma can be rarely confused with osteochondroma. A radiologic-pathologic correlation is essential. Cortex continuity is the most misleading imaging feature that may occur in parosteal osteosarcomas. A knowledge of this misleading pattern will help diagnose the lesion from the beginning.
Mini-PEG spacering of VAP-1-targeting 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 peptide improves PET imaging of inflammation
Authors: Autio Anu , Henttinen Tiina , Sipilä Henri J , Jalkanen Sirpa , Roivainen Anne
Published: July 2011

Background

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) is an adhesion molecule that plays a key role in recruiting leucocytes into sites of inflammation. We have previously shown that 68Gallium-labelled VAP-1-targeting peptide (68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1) is a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent, capable of visualising inflammation in rats, but disadvantaged by its short metabolic half-life and rapid clearance. We hypothesised that prolonging the metabolic half-life of 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 could further improve its imaging characteristics. In this study, we evaluated a new analogue of 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 modified with a mini-polyethylene glycol (PEG) spacer (68Ga-DOTAVAP-PEG-P1) for in vivo imaging of inflammation.

Methods

Whole-body distribution kinetics and visualisation of inflammation in a rat model by the peptides 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 and 68Ga-DOTAVAP-PEG-P1 were evaluated in vivo by dynamic PET imaging and ex vivo by measuring the radioactivity of excised tissues. In addition, plasma samples were analysed by radio-HPLC for the in vivo stability of the peptides.

Results

The peptide with the mini-PEG spacer showed slower renal excretion but similar liver uptake as the original peptide. At 60 min after injection, the standardised uptake value of the inflammation site was 0.33 ± 0.07 for 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 and 0.53 ± 0.01 for 68Ga-DOTAVAP-PEG-P1 by PET. In addition, inflammation-to-muscle ratios were 6.7 ± 1.3 and 7.3 ± 2.1 for 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 and 68Ga-DOTAVAP-PEG-P1, respectively. The proportion of unchanged peptide in circulation at 60 min after injection was significantly higher for 68Ga-DOTAVAP-PEG-P1 (76%) than for 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 (19%).

Conclusion

The eight-carbon mini-PEG spacer prolonged the metabolic half-life of the 68Ga-DOTAVAP-P1 peptide, leading to higher target-to-background ratios and improved in vivo PET imaging of inflammation.
ZINBA integrates local covariates with DNA-seq data to identify broad and narrow regions of enrichment, even within amplified genomic regions
Authors: Rashid Naim U , Giresi Paul G , Ibrahim Joseph G , Sun Wei , Lieb Jason D
Published: July 2011

ZINBA (Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial Algorithm) identifies genomic regions enriched in a variety of ChIP-seq and related next-generation sequencing experiments (DNA-seq), calling both broad and narrow modes of enrichment across a range of signal-to-noise ratios. ZINBA models and accounts for factors that co-vary with background or experimental signal, such as G/C content, and identifies enrichment in genomes with complex local copy number variations. ZINBA provides a single unified framework for analyzing DNA-seq experiments in challenging genomic contexts.

Software website: http://code.google.com/p/zinba/
Relative Abundance of EGFR Mutations Predicts Benefit From Gefitinib Treatment for Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhou Qing , Zhang Xu-Chao , Chen Zhi-Hong , Yin Xiao-Lu , Yang Jin-Ji , Xu Chong-Rui , Yan Hong-Hong , Chen Hua-Jun , Su Jian , Zhong Wen-Zhao , Yang Xue-Ning , An She-Juan , Wang Bin-Chao , Huang Yi-Sheng , Wang Zhen , Wu Yi-Long
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Our aim was to determine whether abundance of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations in tumors predicts benefit from treatment with EGFR–tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Patients and Methods

We detected EGFR mutations in 100 lung cancer samples using direct DNA sequencing and amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS). Mutation-positive tumors by both methods carried high abundance of EGFR mutations. Tumors that were mutation positive by ARMS but mutation negative by direct DNA sequencing harbored low abundance of EGFR mutations. Mutation-negative tumors by both methods carried wild-type EGFR. All patients received gefitinib treatment. The correlation between EGFR mutation abundance and clinical benefit from gefitinib treatment was analyzed.

Results

Of 100 samples, 51 and 18 harbored high and low abundances of EGFR mutations, respectively; 31 carried wild-type EGFR. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 11.3 (95% CI, 7.4 to 15.2) and 6.9 months (95% CI, 5.5 to 8.4) in patients with high and low abundances of EGFR mutations, respectively (P = .014). Median PFS of patients with low abundance of EGFR mutations was significantly longer than that of those with wild-type tumors (2.1 months; 95% CI, 1.0 to 3.2; P = .010). Objective response rates (ORRs) were 62.7%, 44.4%, and 16.1%, and overall survival (OS) rates were 15.9 (95% CI, 13.4 to 18.3), 10.9 (95% CI, 2.7 to 19.1), and 8.7 months (95% CI, 4.6 to 12.7) for patients with high abundance of EGFR mutations, low abundance of EGFR mutations, and wild-type EGFR, respectively. The difference between patients with high and low abundances of EGFR mutations was not significant regarding ORR and OS.

Conclusion

The relative EGFR mutation abundance could predict benefit from EGFR-TKI treatment for advanced NSCLC.
Phase II Study of Temsirolimus in Women With Recurrent or Metastatic Endometrial Cancer: A Trial of the NCIC Clinical Trials Group
Authors: Oza Amit M. , Elit Laurie , Tsao Ming-Sound , Kamel-Reid Suzanne , Biagi Jim , Provencher Diane Michele , Gotlieb Walter H. , Hoskins Paul J. , Ghatage Prafull , Tonkin Katia S. , Mackay Helen J. , Mazurka John , Sederias Joana , Ivy Percy , Dancey Janet E. , Eisenhauer Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a tumor suppressor gene, and loss of function mutations are common and appear to be important in the pathogenesis of endometrial carcinomas. Loss of PTEN causes deregulated phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/serine-threonine kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signaling which may provide neoplastic cells with a selective survival advantage by enhancing angiogenesis, protein translation, and cell cycle progression. Temsirolimus, an ester derivative of rapamycin that inhibits mTOR, was evaluated in this setting.

Patients and Methods

Sequential phase II studies evaluated single-agent activity of temsirolimus in women with recurrent or metastatic chemotherapy-naive or chemotherapy-treated endometrial cancer. Temsirolimus 25 mg intravenously was administered weekly in 4-week cycles.

Results

In the chemotherapy-naive group, 33 patients received a median of four cycles (range, one to 23 cycles). Of the 29 patients evaluable for response, four (14%) had an independently confirmed partial response and 20 (69%) had stable disease as best response, with a median duration of 5.1 months (range, 3.7 to 18.4 months) and 9.7 months (range, 2.1 to 14.6 months). Only five patients (18%) had progressive disease. In the chemotherapy-treated group, 27 patients received a median of three cycles (range, one to six cycles). Of the 25 patients evaluable for response, one (4%) had an independently confirmed partial response, and 12 patients (48%) had stable disease, with a median duration of 4.3 months (range, 3.6 to 4.9 months) and 3.7 months (range, 2.4 to 23.2 months). PTEN loss (immunohistochemistry and mutational analysis) and molecular markers of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway did not correlate with the clinical outcome.

Conclusion

mTOR inhibition with temsirolimus has encouraging single-agent activity in endometrial cancer which is higher in chemotherapy-naive patients than in chemotherapy-treated patients and is independent of PTEN status. The difference in activity according to prior therapy should be factored into future clinical trial designs.
An emerging role for TOR signaling in mammalian tissue and stem cell physiology
Authors: Russell Ryan C. , Fang Chong , Guan Kun-Liang
Published: July 2011

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a kinase that responds to a myriad of signals, ranging from nutrient availability and energy status, to cellular stressors, oxygen sensors and growth factors. The finely tuned response of mTOR to these stimuli results in alterations to cell metabolism and cell growth. Recent studies of conditional knockouts of mTOR pathway components in mice have affirmed the role of mTOR signaling in energy balance, both at the cell and whole organism levels. Such studies have also highlighted a role for mTOR in stem cell homeostasis and lifespan determination. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms of TOR signaling and review recent in vitro and in vivo studies of mTOR tissue-specific activities in mammals.
A numerical study of the hydro-thermal behaviour of nanofluids in rectangular microchannels using a mixture model
Authors: Aminfar H , Maroofiazar R
Published: July 2011

In this article, laminar flow and convection heat transfer of wateralumina nanofluid in a rectangular microchannel have been investigated numerically. Because of the existence of slip velocity between nanoparticles and base fluid, the mixture model is used and results are compared with the single-phase model. The results indicate that using nanofluids can enhance convective heat transfer and pressure drop in a microchannel in comparison with pure water. Also, the enhancement of convection heat transfer is higher in the developing region and the difference of the mixture model and single-phase model is slightly great in this region, but in fully developed region the differences are very low.
On the Determinants of Organizational Forgetting
Authors: David Guy , Brachet Tanguy
Published: July 2011

Studies of organizational learning and forgetting identify potential channels through which the firm's production experience is lost. These channels have differing implications for efficient resource allocation within the firm, but their relative importance has been ignored to date. We develop a framework for distinguishing the contributions of labor turnover and human capital depreciation to organizational forgetting. We apply our framework to a novel dataset of ambulance companies and their workforce. We find evidence of organizational forgetting, which results from skill decay and turnover effects. The latter has twice the magnitude of the former. (JEL D23, D83, J24, J63)