bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objectively Measured Moderate- and Vigorous-Intensity Physical Activity but Not Sedentary Time Predicts Insulin Resistance in High-Risk Individuals
Authors: Ekelund Ulf , Brage Soren , Griffin Simon J. , Wareham Nicholas J.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

Low levels of physical activity appear to be associated with insulin resistance. However, the detailed associations of these complex relationships remain elusive. We examined the prospective associations between self-reported TV viewing time, objectively measured time spent sedentary, at light-intensity activity, and at moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) with insulin resistance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 192 individuals (81 men and 111 women) with a family history of type 2 diabetes, we measured physical activity and anthropometric and metabolic variables at baseline and after 1 year of follow-up in the ProActive UK trial. Physical activity was measured objectively by accelerometry. Insulin resistance was expressed as fasting insulin and the homeostasis model assessment score (HOMA-IR).

RESULTS

Baseline MVPA was a significant predictor of fasting insulin at follow-up (β = −0.004 [95% CI −0.007 to −0.0001], P = 0.022), and the association approached significance for HOMA-IR (β = −0.003 [−0.007 to 0.000002], P = 0.052), independent of time spent sedentary, at light-intensity activity, sex, age, smoking status, waist circumference, and self-reported TV viewing. Time spent sedentary and at light-intensity activity were not significantly associated with insulin resistance. The change in MVPA between baseline and follow-up was inversely related to fasting insulin (β = −0.003 [−0.007 to −0.0003], P = 0.032) and the HOMA-IR score (β = −0.004 [−0.008 to −0.001], P = 0.015) at follow-up, after adjustment for baseline phenotype in addition to the same confounders as above.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the importance of promoting moderate-intensity activity such as brisk walking for improving insulin sensitivity and possibly other metabolic risk factors to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Spherical Harmonics Expansion of the Atmospheric Gravitational Potential Based on Exponential and Power Models of Atmosphere
Authors: Eshagh Mehdi
Published: February 2009

Spherical Harmonics Expansion of the Atmospheric Gravitational Potential Based on Exponential and Power Models of Atmosphere

Spherical harmonic formulation of gravitational potential of the atmosphere depends on the analytical model of the atmospheric density which is used. Exponential and power models are two well-known mathematical tools which are used in atmospheric applications. This paper presents simple formulas for the harmonic coefficients of internal and external types of the atmospheric potential based on these models which can be used in most of the gravimetric aspects. It considers the atmospheric effect on the satellite gravity gradiometry data as an example for numerical investigations. The numerical studies on these data show that the maximum atmospheric effect is about 2 mE over Fennoscandia based on both models, and their differences are less than 0.1 mE. The difference between indirect atmospheric effects reaches 2 cm and 0.02 mGal on the geoid and gravity anomaly, respectively in this region.
Automated calibration of the simulation model of irrigation projects by harmony search optimization
Authors: Čistý Milan
Published: February 2009

Automated calibration of the simulation model of irrigation projects by harmony search optimization

The paper deals with calibration of the simulation models of hydraulic part of an irrigation project. Calibrated simulation model can be used in design, reconstruction, enlargement or maintenance of the pressurized irrigation systems. Computer model of the water distribution system is a valuable tool which can assist engineers and planners in analyzing the hydraulic performance of water delivery systems. Calibration of the water distribution model consists in comparison of pressures and flows predicted with observed pressures and flows for known operating conditions (i.e., pump operation, tank levels, pressure-reducing valve settings), and adjustment of the input data for the model to improve agreement between observed and predicted values. In practice, given a set or sets of measured state variables, engineers apply trial and error techniques with their judgment to vary the parameters and accomplish this task. Trial and error techniques are tedious do not guarantee reasonable results. The paper introduces the methodology of determination of calibrated parameters automatically. Described methodology of calibration is based on optimizing procedures using the harmony search approach.
Changes of springs' yield of Lublin Upland and Roztocze Region in 1998-2008
Authors: Michalczyk Zdzisław , Chmiel Stanisław , Głowacki Sławomir , Zielińska Beata
Published: February 2009

Changes of springs' yield of Lublin Upland and Roztocze Region in 1998-2008

Lublin Upland and Roztocze region are known for the occurrence of a large number of springs of high yield. These springs are fed mainly from Cretaceous or Tertiary water-bearing horizon. In order to determine variability of springs' yield, 61 selected springs were analysed in spring periods of the years 1998-2008. Collected hydrometric materials allowed for comparing average and extreme yield values of springs in various physiographic regions within the period of 11 years. Average value was 76.1 dm3·s−1, while the mean of the minimal yields was 44.7 dm3·s−1 and of the maximal - 132.7 dm3·s−1. Coefficient of irregularity of the springs' yield ranged from 1.5 to 5.0, which may lead to the conclusion that the springs' yield is constant or varies slightly. In some cases the irregularity was higher but it was determined by hydrogeological, meteorological and local factors.
Reforming Reform: Toronto's Settlement House Movement, 1900-20
Authors: James Cathy
Published: February 2009

There can hardly be anything more opposed to conventional charity than the social settlement … The settlements are not charitable institutions. They are, on the contrary, illustrations of social equality and democracy. The settlement workers do not go down from their homes of prosperity with philanthropic condescension to aid the poor. They simply live among the poor, and their relation with them is that of neighbors and personal friends. They dismiss altogether the notion of social classes. They recognize but one social circle, - the comprehensive circle of human sympathy and need.
‘A Mixed Assemblage of Persons’: Race and Tavern Space in Upper Canada
Authors: Roberts Julia
Published: February 2009

On our arrival yesterday many Indians were in town and a few of them stayed about the taverns pretty late in the evening. Some of them, as well as the blacks and whites, drank quite freely; and I heard this morning that a fracas occurred in our landlord's bar-room among the heterogenous assemblage there. Having retired early I knew nothing of it. The blame was thrown upon the ‘negroes’ by the bar-keeper who was a ‘Yankee’ of ‘high pressure’ prejudice, but it did not amount to much; and to-day very few Indians or blacks are to be seen in the public places.
From ‘Business as Usual’ to ‘Salesmanship in Reverse’: Tourism Promotion in British Columbia during the Second World War
Authors: Dawson Michael
Published: February 2009

‘Isms’ are under a cloud these days, but one ‘Ism’ continues to be popular, namely Tourism. 'Tourism: A British Columbia Industry
Re-placing Objects: Historical Practices for the Second Museum Age
Authors: Phillips Ruth
Published: February 2009

The very existence of an object in a museum demonstrates that the past (and what we have made of it and in it) does not die.

An object is best viewed as indicative of process, rather than static relations, and this process is ongoing in museums as elsewhere, so that there is a series of continuous social relations surrounding the object connecting 'field' and 'museums.'
Buff, Tough, and Rough: Representations of Muscularity in Action Motion Pictures
Authors: Morrison Todd G. , Halton Marie
Published: February 2009

Although the muscular mesomorphic body may be the most common one appearing in mass media, the prevalence of muscularity and the ways in which this body is coded characterologically in motion pictures have not been investigated. To examine this topic, a content analysis was conducted on a random sample of top-grossing action films from 1980 to 2006. Results demonstrate that actors in this genre have shown a parallel trend toward increasing leanness and muscularity over the last several decades. As well, in comparison to their less muscular counterparts, those with muscular physiques were more likely to be romantically involved, evidenced higher levels of aggression, experienced more positive outcomes, and were more likely to be objectified.
Traumatic high flow vertebral-venous fistula presenting with delayed ischemic stroke: endovascular management with detachable coils and Amplatzer Vascular Plugs
Authors: Crowley R. Webster , Medel Ricky , Dumont Aaron S.
Published: February 2009

Penetrating injuries to the neck can result in a number of abnormalities that are of interest to neurosurgeons and interventional neuroradiologists. Gunshot or stab wounds may cause damage to the cervical spinal cord, the adjacent osseous and ligamentous structures, and the peripheral or cranial nerves. In addition, a significant percentage of penetrating wounds to this location result in vascular injury. These may present insidiously or acutely and with a variety of symptoms. The authors present the case of a patient in whom an occipital lobe infarction developed roughly 2 months after the patient was struck in the neck by a bullet. He was found to have a complete transection of the left vertebral artery, with an associated vertebral-venous fistula. The fistula was eventually treated endovascularly with a combination of platinum coils and Amplatzer Vascular Plugs. The management is discussed, with specific emphasis on the technical aspects of the case.
Hyperperfusion syndrome following endovascular cerebral revascularization
Authors: Medel Ricky , Crowley R. Webster , Dumont Aaron S.
Published: February 2009

Endovascular cerebral revascularization is becoming a frequently used alternative to surgery for the treatment of atherosclerotic disease, especially in the intracranial circulation where options are limited. Recent literature regarding the equivalent efficacy of carotid artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy in certain patient populations, as well as the recognition of the significant risk for recurrent stroke posed by intracranial lesions, will only serve to amplify this trend. Hyperperfusion syndrome has been well documented in the setting of carotid endarterectomy; however, a paucity of literature exists regarding the incidence, pathophysiology, and management as it relates to percutaneous interventions. The purpose of this review is to outline the current state of knowledge, with particular attention to the distinct attributes of endovascular treatment that would be expected to modify the course of hyperperfusion syndrome.
Fatal hemorrhage after attempted treatment of a basilar artery stenosis
Authors: Gralla Jan , Rennie Adam T.M. , Squire Wayne , Rothwell Peter M. , Kuker Wilhem
Published: February 2009

Interventional treatment of severe intracranial stenoses using angioplasty and stent placement carries a significant risk of severe adverse events. These events are frequently caused by the intraarterial dilation but may also be precipitated by other causes related to the procedure. The authors describe a fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage during the treatment of a basilar artery (BA) stenosis caused by a vascular rupture distant from the site of angioplasty. After successful balloon dilation, an attempt to deploy a self-expanding stent failed due to the severe kinking of the stenotic segment of the BA. The angiogram performed during the intervention revealed a fatal rupture of the BA in a location not related to the angioplasty or guide wire tip. The technical aspects of the intervention are analyzed on the basis of the postmortem findings.
Failure of temporal lobe resection for epilepsy in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis: results and treatment options
Authors: Ramos Edwin , Benbadis Selim , Vale Fernando L.
Published: February 2009

Object

The purpose of this study was to identify the causes of failed temporal lobe resection in patients with mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS) and the role of repeat surgery for seizure control.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 105 patients who underwent temporal lobe resection for MTS with unilateral electroencephalographic findings. The mean follow-up duration was 36 months (range 24–84 months). Surgeries were all performed by the senior author (F.L.V.).

Results

Following initial surgical intervention, 97 patients (92%) improved to Engel Class I or II (Group A), and 8 (8%) did not have significant improvement (Engel Class III or IV; Group B). These 8 patients were restudied using video-electroencephalography (EEG) and MR imaging. All major surgical failures occurred within 1 year after initial intervention. Reevaluation demonstrated 3 patients (37.5%) with contralateral temporal EEG findings. Five patients (62.5%) had evidence of ipsilateral recurrent discharges. Four patients underwent extended neocortical resection along the previous resection cavity. Their outcomes ranged from Engel Class I to Class III. Only 1 patient (12.5%) who failed to improve after initial surgery was found to have incomplete resection of mesial structures. This last patient underwent reoperation to complete the resection and improved to Engel Class I.

Conclusions

Failure of temporal lobe resection for MTS is multifactorial. The cause of failure lies in the pathological substrate of the epileptogenic area. Complete seizure control cannot be predicted solely by conventional preoperative workup. Initial surgical failures from temporal lobe resection often benefit from reevaluation, because reoperation may be beneficial in selected patients. Based on this work, the authors have proposed a management and treatment algorithm for these patients.
A not so Little Italy? Tourist and Resident Perceptions of Authenticity in Leichhardt, Sydney
Authors: Mura Paolo , Lovelock Brent
Published: February 2009

This article reports upon an empirical study that compares and contrasts the perceptions of authenticity of visitors and residents within a migrant urban ethnic district—Leichhardt, or the Little Italy of Sydney, Australia. The research comprised a quantitative personally administered
questionnaire, administered on site to domestic and international visitors and local residents. The rationale of this research was to identify what the critical components of "authenticity" are that make an urban ethnic district "authentic" for visitors and residents. In this respect, participants
were asked to consider a number of elements including building and street architecture, sounds (language, music), cultural performances, food, service, smells, and retail offerings. The findings of this study show that international visitors perceive a higher level of authenticity in the case
study area than domestic visitors, supporting previous research indicating that the place of origin affects visitors' perceptions of authenticity. The research also shows that residents perceived a lower level of authenticity across a range of experiences/products than international and domestic
visitors. Authenticity involves a number of elements, such as food, architecture, or cultural performances. This research reveals that food, architecture, and music are the three elements most commonly associated with Italian culture in general. In this ethnic district, food is perceived to
be the most authentic element by visitors, with other elements less representative of the "real" Italian culture in Leichhardt. The findings of this study raise several issues in terms of management and promotion of urban ethnic districts, given that the single elements may be perceived differently
by different segments.
Embedded Identity: Pacific Islanders, Cultural Economies, and Migrant Tourism Product
Authors: Cave Jenny
Published: February 2009

Few researchers look behind engagement in the formal tourism industry to the conscious choices that some cultural communities make not to take part in tourism. An assumption made by migrant participants in this research is that community-initiated cultural tourism, successful
as an enterprise strategy in homeland nations (where tourism is central to GDP), should transfer readily to a market economy model as a contributor to improved social and economic well-being. Is this the case? An in-depth study of the lived experience of five communities of migrant Pacific
Island nations reveals flaws in that assumption. This article articulates the viewpoint of potential host communities. First it theorizes a model of interactions in cultural tourism from the literature. Next, it describes the cultural context and research protocols for 19 extended discussion
groups; first with Pacific entrepreneurs and then their extended cultural communities. These explored the lived experience of supply of cultural products and factors that hinder or encourage engagement in formal businesses such as tourism. Findings highlight the importance of diasporan identity,
demographic change, concepts of future rather than immediate earnings, and a mismatch between leadership aspirations and community capacity to engage in tourism in a Western market economy. Implications are drawn from the findings for the Pacific cultural communities and for tourism. This
research contributes a new understanding of some conditions that discourage entry into the formal tourism industry and introduces the notion of migrant "cultural economies" (ceremonial, informal, and formal), which redistribute wealth and people, affecting future employees, markets, and supply.
Polish Migrant Labor in the Hospitality Workforce: Implications for Recruitment and Retention
Authors: Janta Hania , Ladkin Adele
Published: February 2009

This article explores the implications for recruitment and retention in the hospitality industry as a result of the increasing involvement of Polish migrants in the workforce. The research draws on primary data collected using netnography, a modern version of ethnography, from a sample
of Polish migrant workers. The merits and difficulties of using this technique are explored and the rationale for the use of netnography as an appropriate research method is outlined. A number of findings are discussed relating to job choice, methods of job seeking, English language issues,
and status of the sector. Initial findings indicate it is common for Poles to find their first job in the UK in the hospitality sector due to low entry barriers, ease of access, the lack of required specific skills, high staff turnover, and demand for seasonal workers. There is also a common
trend in perceiving the sector as a transient one. In light of these findings the implications for the recruitment and retention of migrant workers are considered.
Chloroplast diversity in a putative hybrid swarm of Ponderosae (Pinaceae)
Authors: Epperson Bryan K. , Telewski Frank W. , Willyard Ann
Published: February 2009

The Ponderosae subsection of the genus Pinus contains numerous taxa in disjunct mountain ranges of southern Arizona and New Mexico, differing for several leaf and cone traits, key among which is the number of leaf needles per fascicle. Trees with three needles are often found together with trees having five needles and mixed numbers. One taxonomic hypothesis is that there are swarms of hybrids between P. ponderosa and P. arizonica. A second hypothesis is that there are spatial mixtures of two separate taxa, five‐needle P. arizonica and a “taxon X” containing three needle and mixed needle trees. We genotyped chloroplasts in one putative hybrid swarm on Mt. Lemmon using microsatellite markers and show that cpDNA is almost completely differentiated between two separate morphotypes corresponding to P. arizonica and “taxon X.” Little if any introgression has occurred on Mt. Lemmon, and the simplest explanation is that little or no effective hybridization has occurred. Further results indicate that not only is taxon X not of hybrid origin, it is more closely related to nonregional Ponderosae other than P. ponderosa and P. arizonica. The results further suggest that other putative hybrid swarms in the region are also spatial mixtures of distinct taxa.
Should structure–function relations be considered separately for homobaric vs. heterobaric leaves?
Authors: Liakoura Vally , Fotelli Mariangela N. , Rennenberg Heinz , Karabourniotis George
Published: February 2009

Tree and shrub species can be differentiated into two major groups based on their substantially different leaf anatomy: heterobaric and homobaric. In contrast to homobaric leaves, heterobaric leaves have bundle sheath extensions (BSEs) that create transparent regions on their lamina. Recent studies have shown that BSEs transfer visible light to internal mesophyll layers, thus affecting the photosynthetic performance of heterobaric leaves. Whether the two leaf types also differ in other functional and structural traits has not been addressed, nor have any structure–function relations. Here, we measured key anatomical and physiological parameters and tested their relationships in 30 species with different leaf types. Heterobaric leaves were thinner with lower leaf mass per area, had higher nitrogen concentration per mass, were 13C‐enriched, and achieved comparable photosynthetic capacity per area but had higher photosynthetic capacity per mass compared to homobaric leaves. Relations between leaf construction cost, nitrogen concentration, and photosynthesis followed the general pattern of the “leaf economic spectrum,” but differed between homobaric and heterobaric leaves. We suggest that the mechanisms controlling these relations differ between the two leaf types, presumably due to their distinct anatomy.
Drought response in self‐compatible species of tomato (Solanaceae)
Authors: Easlon Hsien Ming , Richards James H.
Published: February 2009

Wild tomatoes occur in habitats from the extremely dry Atacama Desert to moist areas in the Andean highlands, which may have resulted in adaptation of populations or species to differences in soil moisture availability. However, when two accessions representing extremes in habitat water availability from each of the five self‐compatible species were grown in a common garden, we observed no differences in leaf physiological responses to soil drought within or between species. All five species had drought avoidance characteristics with the same threshold soil moisture availability for decline of assimilation, stomatal conductance, and leaf water potential (Ψl) in response to slowly decreasing soil moisture. After rewatering, all species rapidly recovered to near predrought Ψl, but bulk leaf solute potential after recovery did not indicate any osmotic adjustment. The lack of variation in shoot physiological traits during soil drought is unexpected as water deficit is commonly thought to have imposed selective pressure in the evolution of plant physiology. However, species did differ in assimilation under nonstressed conditions, which may contribute to differential soil water conservation and growth or survival during drought.
Phylogeny and classification of the species‐rich pantropical showy genusIxora(Rubiaceae‐Ixoreae) with indications of geographical monophyletic units and hybrids
Authors: Mouly Arnaud , Razafimandimbison Sylvain G. , Khodabandeh Anbar , Bremer Birgitta
Published: February 2009

Species‐rich genera often have various conflicting circumscriptions from independent regional flora treatments. Testing the monophyly of these groups of plants is an important step toward the establishment of a phylogenetic classification. The genusIxoraof the tribe Ixoreae in the subfamily Ixoroideae (coffee family or Rubiaceae) is a species‐rich pantropical genus of ca. 500 species. Phylogenetic analyses of Ixoreae based on combined sequence data from one nuclear (nrETS) and two chloroplast (rps16andtrnT‐F) markers reveal the paraphyly ofIxoraas presently delimited and also show that the tribe can be subdivided into three major clades: the Mascarene/neotropical/Malagasy/African clade, the Pacific clade, and the Asian clade. Given the lack of morphological synapomorphies supporting the differentIxoraclades and the morphological consistency of the ingroup taxa, we propose a broad circumscription ofIxoraincluding all its satellite genera:Captaincookia, Doricera, Hitoa, Myonima, Sideroxyloides, Thouarsiora, andVersteegia. The current infrageneric classification ofIxorais not supported. The differentIxorasubclades represent geographical units. Nuclear and chloroplast tree topologies were partially incongruent, indicating at least four potential natural hybridization events. Other conflicting positions for the cultivated species are most likely due to anthropogenic hybridization.
Efficient translation in chloroplasts requires element(s) upstream of the putative ribosome binding site from atpI
Authors: Baecker Joshua J. , Sneddon John C. , Hollingsworth Margaret J.
Published: February 2009

Thousands of proteins make up a chloroplast, but fewer than 100 are encoded by the chloroplast genome. Despite this low number, expression of chloroplast‐encoded genes is essential for plant survival. Every chloroplast has its own gene expression system with a major regulatory point at the initiation of protein synthesis (translation). In chloroplasts, most protein‐encoding genes contain elements resembling the ribosome binding sites (RBS) found in prokaryotes. In vitro, these putative chloroplast ribosome binding sequences vary in their ability to support translation. Here we report results from an investigation into effects of the predicted RBS for the tobacco chloroplast atpI gene on translation in vivo. Two reporter constructs, differing only in their 5′‐untranslated regions (5′UTRs) were stably incorporated into tobacco chloroplast genomes and their expression analyzed. One 5′UTR was derived from the wild‐type (WT) atpI gene. The second, Holo‐substitution (Holo‐sub), had nonchloroplast sequence replacing all wild‐type nucleotides, except for the putative RBS. The abundance of reporter RNA was the same for both 5′UTRs. However, translation controlled by Holo‐sub was less than 4% that controlled by WT. These in vivo experiments support the idea that translation initiation in land plant chloroplasts depends on 5′UTR elements outside the putative RBS.
Gravity control of growth form in Brassica rapa and Arabidopsis thaliana (Brassicaceae): Consequences for secondary metabolism
Authors: Allen Joan , Bisbee Patricia A. , Darnell Rebecca L. , Kuang Anxiu , Levine Lanfang H. , Musgrave Mary E. , van Loon Jack J. W. A.
Published: February 2009

How gravity influences the growth form and flavor components of plants is of interest to the space program because plants could be used for food and life support during prolonged missions away from the planet, where that constant feature of Earth's environment does not prevail. We used plant growth hardware from prior experiments on the space shuttle to grow Brassica rapa and Arabidopsis thaliana plants during 16‐d or 11‐d hypergravity treatments on large‐diameter centrifuge rotors. Both species showed radical changes in growth form, becoming more prostrate with increasing g‐loads (2‐g and 4‐g). In Brassica, height decreased and stems thickened in a linear relationship with increasing g‐load. Glucosinolates, secondary compounds that contribute flavor to Brassica, decreased by 140% over the range of micro to 4‐g, while the structural secondary compound, lignin, remained constant at ∼15% (w/w) cell wall dry mass. Stem thickening at 4‐g was associated with substantial increases in cell size (47%, 226%, and 33% for pith, cortex, and vascular tissue), rather than any change in cell number. The results, which demonstrate the profound effect of gravity on plant growth form and secondary metabolism, are discussed in the context of similar thigmostresses such as touch and wind.
Dietary factors and cancer chemoprevention
Authors: Murthy NS , Mukherjee S , Ray G , Ray A
Published: February 2009

Obesity is a growing health problem in developed nations and in countries that are in the process of westernization like India. Obesity is linked with several health disorders such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia and certain cancers. Currently, obesity-related malignancies, e.g., cancers of the breast, prostate and colon are the leading cancers in the industrialized societies. An increased amount of fat or adipose tissue in an overweight or obese person probably influences the development of cancer by releasing several hormone-like factors or adipokines. The majority of adipokines are pro-inflammatory, which promote pathological conditions like insulin resistance and cancer. On the other hand, many recent studies have shown that adiponectin, an anti-inflammatory adipokine, has anti-cancer and insulin-sensitizing effects. Adiponectin exerts its physiological functions chiefly by activation of AMP kinase via adiponectin receptors. Interestingly, several fruits and vegetables may contain adiponectin-like molecules or may increase the biosynthesis of adiponectin in our body. Studies on adiponectin analogues or adiponectin receptor agonists are a promising area of cancer chemoprevention research. In general, fruits and vegetables contain various dietary substances such as vitamins, minerals (like calcium and selenium), fiber and phytochemicals or phenolic compounds (like flavonoids and vanilloids), which may act as anti-cancer agents. Similarly, several dietary constituents including phytochemicals may have anti-obesity effects. Consumption of such dietary compounds along with caloric restriction and physical activity may be helpful in preventing obesity-related cancers. For this review article, we searched PubMed primarily to get the relevant literature.
Small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder
Authors: Tsili AC , Giannakis D , Sofikitis N , Tsampoulas K
Published: February 2009

A 74-year-old man underwent multidetector CT virtual cystoscopy due to macroscopic hematuria. A large, irregularly-surfaced, solid bladder mass was detected, infiltrating the perivesical fat, the seminal vesicles and the prostate. CT examination of the chest and abdomen showed no distant metastases. Radical cystectomy was performed and pathology reported pure small cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder.
Unusual presentation of pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy with no detectable primary tumor
Authors: Seppala N , Cala A , Klebe S
Published: February 2009

Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of diffuse thrombotic microthrombi and fibrocellular intimal proliferation in the pulmonary vasculature. Its development is linked to the presence of pulmonary tumor microemboli (PTM) and should be suspected in patients with unexplained dyspnea, especially in the presence of adenocarcinoma. PTTM presents in a similar fashion to respiratory disease such as pulmonary embolism, pulmonary hypertension or pneumonia and is usually only diagnosed post-mortem. We report a case of PTTM identified ante-mortem by bronchial biopsy in an 82-year-old woman presenting with a clinical picture of atypical pneumonia. Autopsy confirmed PTTM, from an unknown primary neoplasm.
Tigecycline
Authors: Bhattacharya M , Parakh A , Narang M
Published: February 2009

Infection with resistant pathogens can adversely affect clinical, microbiological and economic outcomes. New agents for the treatment of many such serious infections are acutely needed in hospital practice. Tigecycline is a novel glycylcycline antimicrobial for intravenous use. It has an expanded broad-spectrum antibacterial activity including multi-drug resistant pathogens, like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, multi-drug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae, extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing gram-negative bacteria and Acinetobacter baumannii. Tigecycline however is not active against Proteus, Providencia and Pseudomonas species. Its currently approved indications include complicated skin and skin structure infections and complicated intra-abdominal infections. It has also been found to be effective for the treatment of community- as well as hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia and bacteremia, sepsis with shock and urinary tract infections. Tigecycline appears to be a valuable treatment option for the management of superbugs, especially where conventional therapy has failed.
Convulsions with propofol
Authors: Garg R , Dehran M
Published: February 2009

We present a rare but potentially harmful adverse reaction of propofol. A 50-year-old patient was posted for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, developed generalized convulsions after few seconds of propofol administration at anesthesia induction. Convulsions subsided with intravenous administrations of thiopentone and midazolam. Patient remained hemodynamically stable and surgery was uneventful. Blood sugar, serum electrolytes and arterial blood gas analysis were normal. Postoperatively, there was no evidence of postictal phase, serum electrolytes and postoperative computerized tomographic scanning of the head were normal. Patient had uneventful recovery. The administration of propofol has been associated with abnormal movements collectively termed as seizure-like phenomenon. Despite the claims that propofol may have proconvalsant activity, there is significant amount of evidence to the contrary also. The pathophysiological mechanisms behind the neuroexcitatory symptoms with propofol are unknown. Propofol alters the conscious state, the transition from the conscious state to anesthesia or vice versa may be a particularly vulnerable period and may be prolonged after the end of propofol administration.
Mesoporous Hydrous Manganese Dioxide Nanowall Arrays with Large Lithium Ion Energy Storage Capacities
Authors: Liu Dawei , Garcia Betzaida Battalla , Zhang Qifeng , Guo Qing , Zhang Yunhuai , Sepehri Saghar , Cao Guozhong
Published: February 2009

Novel nanowall arrays of hydrous manganese dioxide MnO2 · 0.5H2O are deposited onto cathodic substrates by the potentiostatic method from a mixed aqueous solution of manganese acetate and sodium sulfate. The deposition is induced by a change of local pH resulting from electrolysis of H2O, and hierarchical mesoporous nanowall arrays are formed as a result of simultaneous precipitation of manganese hydroxide and release of hydrogen gas bubbles from the cathode. The morphology and lithium ion intercalation properties are found to change appreciably with the concentration of the precursor electrolyte, with a significant reduction in specific surface area with an increased precursor concentration. For example, mesoporous nanowall arrays deposited from 0.1 M solution possess a surface area of ∼96 m2 g−1 and exhibit a stable high intercalation capacity of 256 mA hg−1 with a film of 0.5 µm in thickness, far exceeding the theoretical limit of 150 mA hg−1 for manganese dioxide bulk film. Such mesoporous nanowall arrays offer much greater energy storage capacity (e.g., ∼230 mA hg−1 for films of ∼2.5 µm) than that of anodic deposited films of the same thickness (∼80 mA hg−1). Such high lithium ion intercalation capacity and excellent cyclic stability of the mesoporous nanowall arrays, especially for thicker films, are ascribed to the hierarchically structured macro‐ and mesoporosity of the MnO2 · 0.5H2O nanowall arrays, which offer large surface to volume ratio favoring interface Faradaic reactions, short solid‐state diffusion paths, and freedom to permit volume change during lithium ion intercalation and de‐intercalation.
Electrocaloric Materials for Solid‐State Refrigeration
Authors: Lu Sheng‐Guo , Zhang Qiming
Published: February 2009

The electrocaloric effect (ECE) in dielectric materials has great potential in realizing solid‐state cooling devices with compact size and high efficiency, which are highly desirable for a broad range of applications. This paper presents the general considerations for dielectric materials to achieve large ECE and reviews the experimental efforts investigating ECE in various polar dielectrics. For practical cooling devices, an ECE material must possess a large isothermal entropy change besides a large adiabatic temperature change. We show that polar dielectrics operated at temperatures near order–disorder transition have potential to achieve large ECE due to the possibility of large change in polarization induced by electric field and large entropy change associated with the polarization change. We further show that indeed the ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride–trifluoroethylene)‐based polymers display a large ECE, i.e., an isothermal entropy change of more than 55 J (kgK)−1 and an adiabatic temperature change of more than 12 °C, at temperatures above the order–disorder transition.
Combinations of cytogenetics and international scoring system can predict poor prognosis in multiple myeloma after high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Inamoto Yoshihiro , Kurahashi Shingo , Imahashi Nobuhiko , Fukushima Nobuaki , Adachi Tatsuya , Kinoshita Tomohiro , Tsushita Keitaro , Miyamura Koichi , Naoe Tomoki , Sugiura Isamu
Published: February 2009

High‐dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a standard therapy for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Combinations of recently proposed prognostic factors such as cytogenetics and international scoring system (ISS) may be useful to predict prognosis after ASCT. This study evaluated 60 consecutive patients who underwent ASCT in four institutes. The median age of patients was 57 years old. Cytogenetic analyses of bone marrow at diagnosis detected metaphase abnormalities in 9 of 51 patients and interphase abnormalities in six of 35 patients (17p13 deletion, t(4;14) and t(14;16)). Seventeen patients had ISS stage 3 at diagnosis. Twenty‐five patients who had any of these risk factors were defined as high risk. All patients were conditioned with high‐dose melphalan. With a median follow‐up of 3.4 years, overall survival and event‐free survival at 3 years were significantly worse in high‐risk patients (48% vs. 97%; P = 0.0005 and 16% vs. 37%; P = 0.038, respectively) despite the higher CR plus VGPR rate among high‐risk patients. In addition, survival at 1 year after progression was significantly worse in high‐risk patients despite salvage chemotherapy containing thalidomide (32% vs. 100%, P = 0.0001). Combinations of cytogenetics and ISS could readily predict prognosis. Quality of response is a poor surrogate marker for ultimate outcome. High‐risk patients may need more effective treatment. Am. J. Hematol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Red blood cell transfusion need at diagnosis adversely affects survival in primary myelofibrosis—increased serum ferritin or transfusion load does not
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew , Mesa Ruben A. , Pardanani Animesh , Hussein Kebede , Schwager Susan , Hanson Curtis A. , Steensma David P.
Published: February 2009

Serum ferritin level at diagnosis was available in 185 patients with primary myelofibrosis (PMF); twenty‐two (12%) patients had serum ferritin >1,000 ng/mL and 32 (17%) were red blood cell (RBC) transfusion‐dependent. As expected, RBC transfusion need and increased serum ferritin displayed strong correlation (P < 0.0001); in addition, the latter but not the former correlated with advanced age (P < 0.0001). During median follow‐up of 28 months (range 0.5–231), peak serum ferritin levels exceeded 1,000 ng/mL in 41 (22%) patients. On multivariable analysis that included age as a covariate, RBC transfusion need at diagnosis (P < 0.0001), but not increased serum ferritin or transfusion load, predicted shortened survival. The prognostic relevance of RBC transfusion need was independent of the International Prognostic Scoring System and was also illustrated for leukemia‐free survival (P = 0.003). In PMF, the presence of a more severe erythropoietic defect, and not iron overload, has additional adverse prognostic value. Am. J. Hematol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sustained and full fetal hemoglobin production after failure of bone marrow transplant in a patient homozygous for beta 0‐thalassemia: A clinical remission despite genetic disease and transplant rejection
Authors: Paciaroni Katia , Gallucci Cristiano , De Angelis Gioia , Alfieri Cecilia , Roveda Andrea , Lucarelli Guido
Published: February 2009

An adult patient affected by β0‐thalassemia major underwent allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT) from a matched related donor. Forty days after transplant, allogeneic engraftment failure and autologous β0‐thalassemic bone marrow recovery were documented. Red blood cell transfusions were required until 118 days post‐transplant. Thereafter, the haemoglobin (Hb) levels stabilized over 11.8 gr/dl throughout the ongoing 34‐month follow‐up, abolishing the need for transfusion support. The Hb electrophoresis showed 100% Hb Fetal (HbF). This unexplained case suggests full HbF production may occur in an adult patient with β0‐thalassemia major. Am. J. Hematol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Longitudinal changes of mtDNA A3243G mutation load and level of functioning in MELAS
Authors: Mehrazin Mahsa , Shanske Sara , Kaufmann Petra , Wei Ying , Coku Jorida , Engelstad Kristin , Naini Ali , De Vivo Darryl C. , DiMauro Salvatore
Published: February 2009

Mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS), one of the most common mitochondrial multisystemic diseases, is most commonly associated with an A‐to‐G transition at nucleotide position 3243 (A3243G) in mitochondrial DNA. We studied 34 individuals harboring the A3243G mutation for up to 7 years; 17 had the full MELAS phenotype and 17 who were classified as “carrier relatives” because they were either asymptomatic or had some symptoms suggestive of mitochondrial disease but no seizures or strokes. Using the sensitive real‐time polymerase chain reaction to quantify the A3243G mutation, we confirmed that the percent mutation decreases progressively in DNA isolated from blood: the average percent decrease was 0.5% per year for fully symptomatic patients and 0.2% per year for oligosymptomatic carrier relatives. We also correlated mutant loads with functional status estimated by the Karnofksky score: even though the mutation load decreases, the level of functioning worsens in fully symptomatic patients, whereas the level of functioning of carrier relatives remains largely unchanged. This study suggests that A3243G mutant load in DNA isolated from blood is neither useful for prognosis nor for functional assessment. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quality of life and psychological distress in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy mutation carriers: A cross‐sectional cohort study
Authors: Christiaans Imke , van Langen Irene M. , Birnie Erwin , Bonsel Gouke J. , Wilde Arthur A.M. , Smets Ellen M.A.
Published: February 2009

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common hereditary heart disease associated with heart failure and sudden death. Quality of life and psychological distress were found to be impaired in HCM patients but have never been assessed in mutation carriers, with or without manifest HCM. We aimed to assess quality of life and psychological distress, using standardized questionnaires, and to identify sociodemographic, clinical, risk and illness perception related predictors thereof in 228 HCM mutation carriers. HCM carriers' overall quality of life and distress scores did not differ from the Dutch population. Quality of life and distress were worst in carriers with manifest HCM before DNA testing and best in predictively tested carriers without HCM. The latter group had even significantly better quality of life than the general population. Substantial determinants of impaired physical quality of life were symptoms (β = 5.2, P = 0.001) and stronger belief in serious consequences of carriership (β = 3.5, P < 0.001); determinants of impaired mental quality of life were physical comorbidity (β = 3.0, P = 0.020) and a higher perceived risk of symptoms (β = 0.9, P = 0.001). Female gender (β = 1.4, P = 0.004) and stronger emotional reactions (β = 1.2, P = 0.002) were associated with more anxiety. Less understanding of carriership (β = 0.9, P = 0.007) and stronger belief in serious consequences (β = 0.8, P = 0.008) increased depression. Levels of quality of life and distress were not impaired compared to the Dutch population. Illness and risk perception related variables were major determinants of quality of life and distress. Because these variables can be addressed and adjusted during pre‐ and post‐test counseling, genetic counseling should focus on these determinants. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Micelle and Vesicle Formation of Amphiphilic Nanoparticles
Authors: Nikolic Marija S. , Olsson Charlotta , Salcher Andrea , Kornowski Andreas , Rank Anja , Schubert Rolf , Frömsdorf Andreas , Weller Horst , Förster Stephan
Published: February 2009

Nanoparticle brushes: Complex nanostructures can be formed by self assembly of amphiphilic CdSe/CdS core–shell nanoparticles that bear a brushlike layer of poly(ethylene oxide) chains. This route is based on controlling the volume fractions of hydrophilic and hydrophobic moieties within the particles and allows the formation of micellar, cylindrical, or vesicular nanoobjects (see picture).

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Ratiometric Single‐Nanoparticle Oxygen Sensors for Biological Imaging
Authors: Wu Changfeng , Bull Barbara , Christensen Kenneth , McNeill Jason
Published: February 2009

It makes sense: Conjugated polymer nanoparticles doped with a platinum porphyrin dye exhibit bright phosphorescence that is highly sensitive to the concentration of molecular oxygen. The small size, extraordinary brightness, excellent sensitivity, and ratiometric emission, together with the demonstration of single‐particle sensing and cellular uptake, indicate the potential of the nanoparticle sensors for quantitative mapping of local molecular oxygen concentration.

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Cerulenin Analogues as Inhibitors of Efflux Pumps in Drug‐resistant Candida albicans
Authors: Diwischek Florian , Morschhäuser Joachim , Holzgrabe Ulrike
Published: February 2009

Overexpression of the ABC transporters Cdr1 and Cdr2 or the major facilitator Mdr1 causes multidrug resistance in the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The fatty acid synthesis inhibitor cerulenin and the structurally unrelated Golgi transport inhibitor brefeldin A are substrates for both types of efflux pumps in Candida albicans. In an effort to overcome efflux pump‐mediated drug resistance in Candida albicans, cerulenin analogues were generated using a variety of synthesis pathways. The so obtained cerulenin derivatives were tested on multidrug‐resistant Candida albicans isolates which constitutively overexpress either Mdr1 or Cdr1 and Cdr2. Some of these compounds were found to decrease Mdr1‐mediated resistance to brefeldin A up to eightfold compared to the control.