bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROXIMITY STRUCTURES FOR GEOMETRIC GRAPHS
Authors: KAPOOR SANJIV , LI XIANG-YANG
Published: September 2010

In this paper we study proximity graph structures like Delaunay triangulations based on geometric graphs, i.e. graphs which are subgraphs of the complete geometric graph. Given an arbitrary geometric graph G, we define Voronoi diagrams, Delaunay triangulations, relative neighborhood graphs, Gabriel graphs which are related to the graph structure and then study their complexities when G is a general geometric graph or G is some special graph derived from the application area of wireless networks. Besides being of fundamental interest these structures have applications in topology control for wireless networks.
TEMPORAL REGISTRATION OF RADIOFREQUENCY INFORMATION AND CT IMAGES FOR RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION PROCEDURE
Authors: MAH YIK HOAY , ABDULLAH BASRI JOHAN JEET , NG KWAN HOONG , TAN LI KUO , WONG JEANNIE HSIU DING
Published: September 2010

A computed tomography (CT) scanner is often used for visualization during the radiofrequency (RF) ablation (RFA) procedure. Temperatures at the ablation zone, power output, efficiency, and annotation are recorded once per second in the RF generator. Radiologists often review the RF and CT data post-operation for diagnostic and research purposes. However, they often rely on the CT data solely as it is difficult to relate the RF information to its CT counterpart. This paper describes the development of a graphical user interface application to co-register the CT images and the information from the RF generator temporally. Information from the RF generator, CT images during the RFA, and the pre-RFA CT images are displayed together. Users pinpoint a specific timestamp based on the RFA operation, and the corresponding CT images are retrieved and displayed.
ANALYSIS OF CELL ACCUMULATION MECHANISM IN A ROTATIONAL CULTURE SYSTEM
Authors: FUKAGATA KOJI , FURUKAWA KATSUKO S. , USHIDA TAKASHI
Published: September 2010

The accumulation mechanism of cells in a rotational culture device is investigated from the viewpoint of fluid mechanics. For simplicity, the deformation of the water surface is neglected and the cells are treated as spherical solid particles. From the numerical simulation of flow field with typical parameters used in the previous experiments, it is confirmed that the relative velocity of fluid induced by the rotational shaking is much smaller than the speed of rotation. From the analysis of particle equation of motion, it is found that the accumulation of cells toward the central region is found to be due to the interaction between the acceleration by rotational shaking and the drag force acting on the cells. The integral time scale for cell accumulation was estimated to be about 10 min for typical cases. The accumulation speed increases quadratically with the diameter of cell and the angular velocity of rotational shaking, which qualitatively support the previous experimental observation.
FINDING OF MICRODAMAGE MORPHOLOGY DIFFERENCES IN MOUSE FEMORAL BONES WITH DISTINCT MINERALIZATION LEVELS
Authors: DONG X. NEIL , LENG HUIJIE , RAN QITAO , WANG XIAODU
Published: September 2010

Microdamage progression in bone is dependent on the ultrastructure of the tissue. Thus, any pathological changes in bone ultrastructure may be reflected in the pattern and capacity of microdamage accumulation. A previous numerical study of microdamage progression in bone using a probabilistic failure analysis approach predicts that the microdamage morphology (either linear microcracks or diffuse damage) is very sensitive to the level of mineralization in bone, which is also implicated in some experimental observations. To examine the prediction, femurs from two strains of mice (C57BL/6J, N = 10 and C3H/HeJ, N = 11) that have distinct mineralization levels were fatigued under four-point bending to create damage in the bone tissues. After testing, the microdamage morphology of the bone samples was examined using bulk-staining technique with basic fuchsin. The results demonstrate that more linear microcracks are observed in femurs of C3H/HeJ (higher mineralization), whereas more diffuse-like damage is found in C57BL/6J femurs (less mineralized). Compared with linear microcracks, the formation of diffuse damage tends to dissipate more energy and help bone to avoid catastrophic failures. Therefore, results from this study may help explain why highly mineralized bone tends to be more brittle. Observations from this study are consistent with the numerical prediction from the previous study, suggesting that mineralization has a significant effect on the microdamage morphology of bone.
A NUMERICAL MODEL FOR THE MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC FLOW OF BLOOD IN A POROUS CHANNEL
Authors: MISRA J. C. , SINHA A. , SHIT G. C.
Published: September 2010

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) principles may be used to study the flow of arterial blood under the action of an applied magnetic field. Such studies are of potential value in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders that may be associated with accelerated circulation. With an aim to providing a generalized model for studying the flow of blood in an electromagnetic field environment, a numerical model is developed here, by treating blood as a non-Newtonian fluid, the motion of which is taken to be governed by Walter's B-fluid model. The channel flow characteristics of the fluid are studied here, when the channel is porous and is subjected to an external magnetic field. Using the similarity transformation and boundary layer approximations, the associated nonlinear partial differential equations of the problem are reduced to nonlinear ordinary differential equations. These are solved numerically by developing a finite difference scheme. The study provides useful estimates for the influence of Reynolds number Re , Hartmann number M, and viscoelastic parameter K1on the flow characteristics. It bears the potential to explore some important information about the hemodynamical flow of blood in an artery when it is under the action of an external magnetic field.
The geotechnical character of some South African dolerites, especially their strength and durability
Authors: Bell F. G. , Jermy C. A.
Published: September 2010

Doleritic intrusions in Natal and adjoining areas of South Africa are very numerous, and are associated with the break‐up of Gondwana which took place some 187 to 155 million years ago. These dolerites are either tholeiitic or olivine dolerites. Plagioclase and pyroxene represent their two major mineral components. A series of tests was carried out to determine the physical and mechanical properties of dolerites from a number of localities in and around Natal, in addition to the determination of their chemical and mineralogical compositions. Some dolerites in Natal have been found to deteriorate within a short space of time when exposed and when used as construction materials. These have been designated rapidly weathering dolerites. Such disintegration is due to the presence of chlorite and clay minerals. Frequently, the clay material is smectitic, in which case breakdown results from the expansion that occurs when such clay minerals swell on absorption of water. Unfortunately, however, such dolerites cannot be distinguished readily from sound dolerite. As a consequence, several durability tests were undertaken. The results from the latter were compared with those of the physical and mechanical properties, and certain petrological indices derived from the mineralogical character of the dolerites to see if there were any significant relationships that were diagnostic in terms of recognizing rapidly weathering dolerite. Rapidly weathering dolerites can possess high strengths and ultrasonic velocities. Generally, they can be detected by ethylene glycol soak testing and perhaps may be recognized by their petrological weathering index.
Movement of the Mam Tor landslide, Derbyshire, UK
Authors: Waltham A. C. , Dixon N.
Published: September 2010

The Mam Tor landslide is a kilometre‐long feature in shales and sandstones. The initial slope failure occurred over 4000 years ago as a rotational landslide that developed into a large debris flow at its toe. A road built across it nearly 200 years ago, and now closed, provides graphic evidence of continued movement of the slide mass; this has now been monitored for eight years. Current mean annual movement is up to 0.25 m; this increases greatly when winter rainfalls exceed thresholds of both 210 mm/month and 750 mm in the preceding six months. The most rapid movement is now taking place in a central zone of slide blocks that rest on a steep slip surface located at or close to the buried ground surface just downslope of the initial failure toe. Both the main upper mass of landslide blocks and the debris toe move more slowly over basal shears at lower angles of dip. Deep drainage of the central part of the landslide would be the most effective means of stabilization, but may not totally eliminate movement.
The geo-engineering significance of laterite construction in Goa, SW India
Authors: Nichol D.
Published: September 2010

Laterite is a tropical residual soil formed by surficial physiochemical processes. In Goa, deep weathering of Precambrian crystalline basement yields ferruginous laterite which is exploited for production of construction stone. Ashlars are produced from laterite quarries by unique extraction methods using mobile circular saw machines. Laterite ashlaring is utilized in the building of houses and walls and evidence of satisfactory performance and durability is provided by historic buildings such as churches, temples and forts that incorporate laterite ashlars in the construction. The geo-engineering significance of certain laterite ashlars lies in their peculiar self-hardening properties. This natural process of self-bonding takes place rapidly at normal temperatures and pressures and appears to depend only on exposure to air. When the self-hardening properties and behaviour of these materials are properly understood, they may provide potential opportunities for development of new techniques for clay soil stabilization.
A further examination of the nature of dispersive soils in Natal, South Africa
Authors: Bell F. G. , Walker D. J. H.
Published: September 2010

Dispersive soils are found in the drier areas of Natal, in regions where the annual rainfall is less than 850 mm. They are derived from a variety of rock types. Dispersive soils deflocculate in the presence of relatively pure water to form colloidal suspensions and are therefore highly susceptible to erosion and piping. Dispersive erosion depends on the chemistry of the clay on the one hand, and the dissolved salts in the pore and eroding water on the other. The presence of exchangeable sodium on clay mineral surfaces is one of the main chemical factors contributing towards dispersive behaviour. Susceptibility to dispersion also is influenced by the total content of dissolved salts in the pore water.

The fabric of the soils was analysed by means of a scanning electron microscope. Turbostratic and flocculated structures were found in the clay material associated with low and high TDS contents respectively. The mineralogy, particle size distribution and consistency of these soils had little or no influence on dispersivity.

A series of physical and chemical tests was carried out in an attempt to assess dispersivity. Then an evaluation of the reliability of the results of these tests was undertaken by means of discriminant analysis. This indicated that the results of the crumb test, the pinhole test, the SAR value and the assessments provided by the CEC vs ESP and TDS vs % Na charts represented the best parameters to use in a rating system. Such a system is proposed to aid the recognition of dispersive soils.
Pre-failure strains as precursors of sliding in a coastal mudslide
Authors: KALAUGHER P. G. , HODGSON R. L. P. , GRAINGER P.
Published: September 2010

A large coastal mudslide at West Down Beacon in East Devon surges occasionally with most of its displacement resulting from basal sliding. Frequent monitoring of surface markers on the mudslide between surges has indicated that, in the months before large surge displacements, there are small displacements caused by shear deformation. These pre-failure strains may be useful precursors of the main movements. The inter-surge conditions of the soil matrix of the mudslide have been recreated in a ring-shear apparatus specially adapted to be stress- rather than strain-controlled. The test results demonstrate the manner in which considerable shear distortions can occur within the mudslide during the early phases of a displacement surge, before the reactivation of failure at residual strength in the basal shear zone.
Integrated geophysical and geotechnical investigations of old masonry retaining walls in Hong Kong
Authors: Bishop I. , Koor N. P.
Published: September 2010

The collapse of an old masonry wall on Hong Kong Island in 1994 prompted research by the Hong Kong SAR Government into the use of modern, non-invasive, geophysical investigative techniques for site characterization. Hong Kong has thousands of retaining walls and during periods of high rainfall, some old masonry walls have failed, damaging property, restricting access and occasionally leading to loss of life. Occasional catastrophic failure of old masonry walls has been linked to combinations of lack of design, high pore pressures, leaking utilities, substandard construction, void development and changes in the land use around the structure. In Hong Kong, the identification of anomalous features in or behind a wall, using conventional investigations such as drilling and trial pits, is expensive and time consuming. Because of the discrete nature of these intrusive methods, they are also less likely than geophysical methods to intersect anomalous features that could adversely affect the stability of a masonry wall. One of the main objectives of the research was to identify efficient, non-invasive, geophysical tools that could assess the geometry and structure of old masonry walls, provide information on the hydrogeological conditions and continuous images of the subsurface and, if required, guide conventional investigation methods. The main conclusion is that a combination of ground penetrating radar and electrical imaging has the potential to identify ‘thin’ old masonry retaining walls in Hong Kong provided that attention to detail during data acquisition and the correct application of analytical techniques is made.
Three-dimensional stability analysis of a coastal landslide at Hanover Point, Isle of Wight
Authors: Bromhead E.N. , Ibsen M-L. , Papanastassiou X. , Zemichael A.A.
Published: September 2010

The applicability of 3-D slope stability analysis is discussed in the first part of the paper. A conclusion is drawn that 2-D analysis is often deficient in one or more respects, and often fails to model properly the true mechanics of landslides.

The paper describes the application of 3-D slope stability analysis using Hungr's Method of Columns to a small but active landslide in Wealden strata at Hanover Point on the SW coast of the Isle of Wight. The basal slide surface of this very small landslide follows a bedding plane. This bedding plane has components of dip both across the landslide and also into the slope. The shape of the slide mass is affected by the shape of the basal shear, but as the slide is also clearly prevented from moving in the direction of steepest dip (inland) by the confining effect of the embayment within which it is developing, the slide is a strong candidate for 3-D analysis.

Systematic analyses of the slide have been made using the Method of Columns, which is essentially a 3-D variant of the 2-D Method of Slices. By changing the assumed movement direction by a small amount between analyses, and covering all possibilities, it is demonstrated that there is a vector direction of movement that exhibits the least Factor of Safety. This vector direction is comparable to the actual movement direction observed in the field.

The paper draws conclusions as to the applicability of 3-D methods of analysis, and also concerning the evolution of bedding controlled landslides with dips into or out of the slope, when subject to strong marine attack and cliff retreat.
Effects and observations of surcharge load on the laboratory CBR and resilient modulus values of roadbed soil
Authors: Razouki Sabah S. , Al-Shefi Azhar M.
Published: September 2010

A silty sand subgrade soil was tested for soaked CBR in the laboratory under different surcharge loads of 44.5, 89, 178 and 267 N. Four sets of samples (two samples per set) were compacted at 95% of modified AASHTO compaction and tested according to ASTM (D1883–87).

A strong correlation between the strength ratio CBR
L
/CBR
45
(where CBR
L
refers to the soaked CBR for any surcharge load L, while CBR
45
corresponds to 44.5N surcharge load) for different levels of surcharge load, was found. Using other data for clayey soils, suggests that the correlation between the strength ratio CBR
L
/CBR
45
and surcharge load is insensitive to soil type.

The resilient modulus M
R
of soil tested was investigated using the ultrasonic wave propagation technique. The four CBR sets were tested for M
R
before and after soaking. The study revealed that the resilient modulus, similar to CBR, increased with surcharge load and a correlation between M
R
and corresponding soaked CBR was developed.
Biology and Genetics of Hair
Authors: Shimomura Yutaka , Christiano Angela M.
Published: September 2010

The mammalian hair follicle (HF) is a complex structure composed of several distinct cell layers. The HF is an ectodermal appendage that resides in the skin, and unlike other tissues and organs, it possesses the remarkable ability to self-renew and undergoes a hair cycle that persists in adult life. Stem cells in the bulge region of the HF, as well as dermal papilla cells, play key roles in the regulation of successive hair cycles. Recent advances in molecular genetics have enabled the identification of many genes and pathways that are involved in HF morphogenesis and cycling. Furthermore, mutations in some of these genes are associated with hereditary hair diseases in humans. Identification of causative genes for hair diseases has provided a better understanding of the crucial roles of these genes in HF morphogenesis, development, and hair growth in humans.
Chromosomes, Conflict, and Epigenetics: Chromosomal Speciation Revisited
Authors: Brown Judith D. , O'Neill Rachel J.
Published: September 2010

Since Darwin first noted that the process of speciation was indeed the “mystery of mysteries,” scientists have tried to develop testable models for the development of reproductive incompatibilities—the first step in the formation of a new species. Early theorists proposed that chromosome rearrangements were implicated in the process of reproductive isolation; however, the chromosomal speciation model has recently been questioned. In addition, recent data from hybrid model systems indicates that simple epistatic interactions, the Dobzhansky–Muller incompatibilities, are more complex. In fact, incompatibilities are quite broad, including interactions among heterochromatin, small RNAs, and distinct, epigenetically defined genomic regions such as the centromere. In this review, we will examine both classical and current models of chromosomal speciation and describe the “evolving” theory of genetic conflict, epigenetics, and chromosomal speciation.
Genetics of Early Onset Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Ropers Hans Hilger
Published: September 2010

Intellectual disability (ID) is the leading socio-economic problem of health care, but compared to autism and schizophrenia, it has received very little public attention. Important risk factors for ID are malnutrition, cultural deprivation, poor health care, and parental consanguinity. In the Western world, fetal alcohol exposure is the most common preventable cause. Most severe forms of ID have genetic causes. Cytogenetically detectable and submicroscopic chromosomal rearrangements account for approximately 25% of all cases. X-linked gene defects are responsible in 10–12% of males with ID; to date, 91 of these defects have been identified. In contrast, autosomal gene defects have been largely disregarded, but due to coordinated efforts and the advent of next-generation DNA sequencing, this is about to change. As shown for Fra(X) syndrome, this renewed focus on autosomal gene defects will pave the way for molecular diagnosis and prevention, shed more light on the pathogenesis of ID, and reveal new opportunities for therapy.
Tubular cell-enriched subpopulation of primary renal cells improves survival and augments kidney function in rodent model of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kelley Rusty , Werdin Eric S. , Bruce Andrew T. , Choudhury Sumana , Wallace Shay M. , Ilagan Roger M. , Cox Bryan R. , Tatsumi-Ficht Patricia , Rivera Elias A. , Spencer Thomas , Scott Rapoport H. , Wagner Belinda J. , Guthrie Kelly , Jayo Manuel J. , Bertram Timothy A. , Presnell Sharon C.
Published: September 2010

Established chronic kidney disease (CKD) may be identified by severely impaired renal filtration that ultimately leads to the need for dialysis or kidney transplant. Dialysis addresses only some of the sequelae of CKD, and a significant gap persists between patients needing transplant and available organs, providing impetus for development of new CKD treatment modalities. Some postulate that CKD develops from a progressive imbalance between tissue damage and the kidney's intrinsic repair and regeneration processes. In this study we evaluated the effect of kidney cells, delivered orthotopically by intraparenchymal injection to rodents 4–7 wk after CKD was established by two-step 5/6 renal mass reduction (NX), on the regeneration of kidney function and architecture as assessed by physiological, tissue, and molecular markers. A proof of concept for the model, cell delivery, and systemic effect was demonstrated with a heterogeneous population of renal cells (UNFX) that contained cells from all major compartments of the kidney. Tubular cells are known contributors to kidney regeneration in situ following acute injury. Initially tested as a control, a tubular cell-enriched subpopulation of UNFX (B2) surprisingly outperformed UNFX. Two independent studies (3 and 6 mo in duration) with B2 confirmed that B2 significantly extended survival and improved renal filtration (serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen). The specificity of B2 effects was verified by direct comparison to cell-free vehicle controls and an equivalent dose of non-B2 cells. Quantitative histological evaluation of kidneys at 6 mo after treatment confirmed that B2 treatment reduced severity of kidney tissue pathology. Treatment-associated reduction of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, and fibronectin (FN) provided evidence that B2 cells attenuated canonical pathways of profibrotic extracellular matrix production.
Note on Colon‐Multiplication Domains
Authors: Mimouni A.
Published: September 2010

Let R be an integral domain with quotient field L. Call a nonzero (fractional) ideal A of R a colon‐multiplication ideal any ideal A, such that B(A : B) = A
for every nonzero (fractional) ideal B of R. In this note, we characterize integral domains for which every maximal ideal (resp., every nonzero ideal) is a colon‐multiplication ideal. It turns that this notion unifies Dedekind and MTP domains.
Iron Overload in Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Pullarkat Vinod
Published: September 2010

Recipients of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) frequently have iron overload resulting from chronic transfusion therapy for anemia. In some cases, for example, in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and thalassemia, this can be further exacerbated by increased absorption of iron from the gut as a result of ineffective erythropoiesis. Accumulating evidence has established the negative impact of elevated pretransplantation serum ferritin, a surrogate marker of iron overload, on overall survival and nonrelapse mortality after HSCT. Complications of HSCT associated with iron overload include increased bacterial and fungal infections as well as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and possibly other regimen-related toxicities. Based on current evidence, particular attention should be paid to prevention and management of iron overload in allogeneic HSCT candidates, especially in patients with thalassemia and myelodysplastic syndromes. The pathophysiology of iron overload in the HSCT patient and optimum strategies to deal with iron overload during and after HSCT require further study.
Optimization Techniques for Verification of Out‐of‐Order Execution Machines
Authors: Srinivasan Sudarshan K.
Published: September 2010

We develop two optimization techniques,flush-machineand collapsed flushing, to improve the efficiency of automatic refinement‐abased verification of out‐of‐order (ooo) processor models. Refinement is a notion of equivalence that can be used to check that an ooo processor correctly implements all behaviors of its instruction set architecture (ISA), including deadlock detection. The optimization techniques work by reducing the computational complexity of the refinement map, a function central to refinement proofs that maps ooo processor model states to ISA states. This has a direct impact on the efficiency of verification, which is studied using 23 ooo processor models.Flush-machine, is a novel optimization technique. Collapsed flushing has been employed previously in the context of in‐order processors. We show how to apply collapsed flushing for ooo processor models. Using both the optimizations together, we can handle 9 ooo models that could not be verified using standard flushing. Also, the optimizations provided a speed up of 23.29 over standard flushing.
Geometric Representations of Interacting Maps
Authors: Kato Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2010

Tropical geometry is a kind of dynamical scale transform which connects automata with real rational dynamics. Real rational dynamics are deeply studied from global analytic viewpoints. On the other hand, automata appear in various contexts in topology, combinatorics, and integrable systems. In this paper we study the analysis of these materials passing through tropical geometry. In particular we discover a new duality on the set of automata which arise from the projective duality in algebraic geometry.
Extended Infusion of Dexmedetomidine to an Infant at Sixty Times the Intended Rate
Authors: Max Bryan A. , Mason Keira P.
Published: September 2010

Dexmedetomidine is an 2 adrenergic agonist which has recently been approved in the United States for procedural sedation in adults. This report describes an infant who inadvertently received an intravenous infusion of dexmedetomidine at a rate which was 60 times greater than intended. We describe the hemodynamic, respiratory, and sedative effects of this overdose.
Semecarpus anacardium(Bhallataka) Alters the Glucose Metabolism and Energy Production in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Aseervatham Jaya , Palanivelu Shanthi , Panchanadham Sachdanandam
Published: September 2010

Glucose produced by gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis plays an important role in aggravating hyperglycemia in diabetes, and altered mitochondrial function is associated with impaired energy production. The present study focuses on the effect ofSemecarpus anacardiumon carbohydrate metabolism and energy production in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced by the administration of Streptozotocin at a dose of 50 mg/kg.b.wt. Three days after the induction,Semecarpus anacardiumat a dose of 300 mg/kg.b.wt was administered for 21 days. After the experimental duration, the activities of the enzymes involved in Glycolysis, TCA cycle, gluconeogenesis, and glycogen were assayed in the liver and kidney of the experimental animals. In addition, to the complexes the protein expression of AKT and PI3K were assayed. The levels of the enzymes involved in Glycolysis and TCA cycle increased, while that of gluconeogensis decreased. The activities of the mitochondrial complexes were also favorably modulated. The expressions of PI3K and AKT also increased in the skeletal muscle. These effects may be attributed to the hypoglycemic and the antioxidative activity ofSemecarpus anacardium. The results of the study revealed thatSemecarpus anacardiumwas able to restore the altered activities of the enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and energy production.
Systematic Review of Integrative Health Care Research: Randomized Control Trials, Clinical Controlled Trials, and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Khorsan Raheleh , Coulter Ian D. , Crawford Cindy , Hsiao An-Fu
Published: September 2010

A systematic review was conducted to assess the level of evidence for integrative health care research. We searched PubMed, Allied and Complementary Medicine (AMED), BIOSIS Previews, EMBASE, the entire Cochrane Library, MANTIS, Social SciSearch, SciSearch Cited Ref Sci, PsychInfo, CINAHL, and NCCAM grantee publications listings, from database inception to May 2009, as well as searches of the “gray literature.” Available studies published in English language were included. Three independent reviewers rated each article and assessed the methodological quality of studies using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN 50). Our search yielded 11,891 total citations but 6 clinical studies, including 4 randomized, met our inclusion criteria. There are no available systematic reviews/meta‐analyses published that met our inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed independently using quality checklists of the SIGN 50. Only a small number of RCTs and CCTs with a limited number of patients and lack of adequate control groups assessing integrative health care research are available. These studies provide limited evidence of effective integrative health care on some modalities. However, integrative health care regimen appears to be generally safe.
Ethanol Extract of Chinese Propolis Facilitates Functional Recovery of Locomotor Activity after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Kasai Masaki , Fukumitsu Hidefumi , Soumiya Hitomi , Furukawa Shoei
Published: September 2010

An ethanol extract of Chinese propolis (EECP) was given intraperitoneally to rats suffering from hemitransection of half of their spinal cord (left side) at the level of the 10th thoracic vertebra to examine the effects of the EECP on the functional recovery of locomotor activity and expression of mRNAs of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) and neurotrophic factors in the injury site. Daily administration of EECP after the spinal cord injury ameliorated the locomotor function, which effect was accompanied by a reduced lesion size. Furthermore, the EECP suppressed iNOS gene expression, thus reducing NO generation, and also increased the expression level of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and neurotrophin‐3 mRNAs in the lesion site, suggesting that the EECP reduced the inflammatory and apoptotic circumstances through attenuation of iNOS mRNA expression and facilitation of mRNA expression of neurotrophins in the injured spinal cord. These results suggest that Chinese propolis may become a promising tool for wide use in the nervous system for reducing the secondary neuronal damage following primary physical injury.
Analgesic and Anti‐Inflammatory Properties of Extracts from the Bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera L. var sativa (Dioscoreaceae) in Mice and Rats
Authors: Mbiantcha M. , Kamanyi A. , Teponno R. B. , Tapondjou A. L. , Watcho P. , Nguelefack T. B.
Published: September 2010

The aqueous and methanol extracts from the dry bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera L. var sativa (Dioscoreaceae)—evaluated orally at the doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg against pain induced by acetic acid, formalin, pressure and against inflammation induced by carrageenan, histamine, serotonin and formalin in mice and rats, showed a dose dependant inhibition of pain and inflammation with a maximum effect of 56.38%, 73.06% and 42.79% produced by the aqueous extract, respectively on pain induced by acetic acid, formalin and pressure while the methanol extract at the same dose respectively inhibited these models of pain by 62.70%, 84.54% and 47.70%. The oral administration of aqueous and methanol extracts caused significant anti‐inflammatory activity on paw oedema induced by histamine, serotonin and formalin. The present results show that the bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera var sativa possess potent analgesic and anti‐inflammatory activities. These activities may results from the inhibition of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, serotonin and prostaglandins. Thus, the analgesic activity of the bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera may be at least partially linked to its anti‐inflammatory activity.
Angiopoietin-4 Promotes Glioblastoma Progression by Enhancing Tumor Cell Viability and Angiogenesis
Authors: Brunckhorst Melissa K. , Wang Hui , Lu Rong , Yu Qin
Published: September 2010

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly invasive and vascularized aggressive brain tumor. Less than 10% of GBM patients survive >5 years after diagnosis. Angiogenesis plays an important role in GBM growth, and antiangiogenesis-based therapies have shown clinical efficacy for GBM patients. Unfortunately, therapeutic resistance often develops in these patients, suggesting that GBM cells are capable of switching their dependency on one proangiogenic signaling pathway to an alternative one. Therefore, it is important to identify novel angiogenic factors that play essential roles in tumor angiogenesis and GBM progression. Angiopoietins (Ang-1, Ang-2, and Ang-4) are the ligands of the Tie-2 receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK). The roles of Ang-1 and Ang-2 in tumor angiogenesis have been established. However, little is known about how Ang-4 affects tumor angiogenesis and GBM progression and the mechanism underlying its effects. In our current study, we establish that Ang-4 is upregulated in human GBM tissues and cells. We show that, like endothelial cells, human GBM cells express Tie-2 RTK. We first establish that Ang-4 promotes in vivo growth of human GBM cells by promoting tumor angiogenesis and directly activating extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (Erk1/2) in GBM cells. Our results establish the novel effects of Ang-4 on tumor angiogenesis and GBM progression and suggest that this pro-GBM effect of Ang-4 is mediated by promoting tumor angiogenesis and activating Erk1/2 kinase in GBM cells. Together, our results suggest that the Ang-4–Tie-2 functional axis is an attractive therapeutic target for GBM. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7283–93. ©2010 AACR.
Dacarbazine Treatment before Peptide Vaccination Enlarges T-Cell Repertoire Diversity of Melan-A–Specific, Tumor-Reactive CTL in Melanoma Patients
Authors: Palermo Belinda , Del Bello Duilia , Sottini Alessandra , Serana Federico , Ghidini Claudia , Gualtieri Novella , Ferraresi Virginia , Catricalà Caterina , Belardelli Filippo , Proietti Enrico , Natali Pier Giorgio , Imberti Luisa , Nisticò Paola
Published: September 2010

Combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy to increase the effectiveness of an antitumor immune response is currently regarded as an attractive antitumor strategy. In a pilot clinical trial, we have recently documented an increase of melanoma antigen A (Melan-A)–specific, tumor-reactive, long-lasting effector-memory CD8+ T cells after the administration of dacarbazine (DTIC) 1 day before peptide vaccination in melanoma patients. Global transcriptional analysis revealed a DTIC-induced activation of genes involved in the immune response and leukocyte activation. To identify the possible mechanisms underlying this improved immune response, we have compared the endogenous and the treatment-induced anti–Melan-A response at the clonal level in patients treated with the vaccine alone or with DTIC plus vaccine. We report a progressive widening of T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire diversity, accompanied by high avidity and tumor reactivity, only in Melan-A–specific T-cell clones of patients treated with chemoimmunotherapy, with a trend toward longer survival. Differently, patients treated with vaccine alone showed a tendency to narrowing the TCR repertoire diversity, accompanied by a decrease of tumor lytic activity in one patient. Collectively, our findings indicate that DTIC plus vaccination shapes the TCR repertoire in terms of diversity and antitumor response, suggesting that this combined therapy could be effective in preventing melanoma relapse. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7084–92. ©2010 AACR.
The Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitor Elafin Triggers Rb-Mediated Growth Arrest and Caspase-Dependent Apoptosis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Caruso Joseph A. , Hunt Kelly K. , Keyomarsi Khandan
Published: September 2010

Elafin, an endogenous inhibitor of neutrophil elastase, is expressed in human mammary epithelial cells but is transcriptionally downregulated in breast cancer cells. We hypothesized that elafin may exert a tumor-suppressive activity in the context of breast cancer. In this study, we show that the retinoblastoma (Rb) pathway governs the antitumor properties of elafin. In breast cancer cells with functional Rb, the expression of elafin triggered Rb-dependent cell cycle arrest. Elafin also exhibited suppressive activity in breast cancer cell lines lacking Rb, but this was associated with an induction of caspase-3–dependent, p53-independent apoptotic cell death. Normal mammary epithelial cells were not affected by elafin. Collectively, these results argue that elafin mediates tumor-suppressive effects that are cytostatic or cytotoxic depending on the Rb status. Our findings suggest that elafin could be engineered as a therapeutic modality to treat breast cancer without toxicity to normal proliferating cells. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7125–36. ©2010 AACR.
A Randomized Trial of a Computer-Tailored Decision Aid to Improve Prostate Cancer Screening Decisions: Results from the Take the Wheel Trial
Authors: Allen Jennifer D. , Othus Megan K.D. , Hart Alton , Tom Laura , Li Yi , Berry Donna , Bowen Deborah
Published: September 2010

Objective: To evaluate a decision aid (DA) designed to promote informed decision making for prostate cancer screening.

Methods: Twelve work sites were randomly assigned to an intervention or nonintervention comparison condition. Intervention sites received access to a computer-tailored DA at the workplace. Male employees age 45 years and above (n = 625) completed surveys at baseline and at 3-month follow-up, documenting aspects of informed decision making.

Results: Using an intention-to-treat analysis, men in the intervention group were significantly more likely to have made a screening decision and to have improved knowledge without increased decisional conflict, relative to men in the comparison group. These changes were observed despite the fact that only 30% of men in intervention sites used the DA. Among DA users, similar improvements were observed, although the magnitudes of changes were substantially greater, and significant improvements in decision self-efficacy were observed.

Conclusions: A DA offered in the workplace promoted decision making, improved knowledge, and increased decision self-efficacy among users, without increasing decisional conflict. However, participation was suboptimal, suggesting that better methods for engaging men in workplace interventions are needed.

Impact Statement: This trial shows the efficacy of a computer-tailored DA in promoting informed decisions about prostate cancer screening. The DA was delivered through work sites, thereby providing access to resources required to participate in informed decision making without requiring a medical appointment. However, participation rates were suboptimal, and additional strategies for engaging men are needed. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2172–86. ©2010 AACR.
Rapid Mass Spectrometric Metabolic Profiling of Blood Sera Detects Ovarian Cancer with High Accuracy
Authors: Zhou Manshui , Guan Wei , Walker L. DeEtte , Mezencev Roman , Benigno Benedict B. , Gray Alexander , Fernández Facundo M. , McDonald John F.
Published: September 2010

Background: Ovarian cancer diagnosis is problematic because the disease is typically asymptomatic, especially at the early stages of progression and/or recurrence. We report here the integration of a new mass spectrometric technology with a novel support vector machine computational method for use in cancer diagnostics, and describe the application of the method to ovarian cancer.

Methods: We coupled a high-throughput ambient ionization technique for mass spectrometry (direct analysis in real-time mass spectrometry) to profile relative metabolite levels in sera from 44 women diagnosed with serous papillary ovarian cancer (stages I-IV) and 50 healthy women or women with benign conditions. The profiles were input to a customized functional support vector machine–based machine-learning algorithm for diagnostic classification. Performance was evaluated through a 64-30 split validation test and with a stringent series of leave-one-out cross-validations.

Results: The assay distinguished between the cancer and control groups with an unprecedented 99% to 100% accuracy (100% sensitivity and 100% specificity by the 64-30 split validation test; 100% sensitivity and 98% specificity by leave-one-out cross-validations).

Conclusion: The method has significant clinical potential as a cancer diagnostic tool. Because of the extremely low prevalence of ovarian cancer in the general population (∼0.04%), extensive prospective testing will be required to evaluate the test's potential utility in general screening applications. However, more immediate applications might be as a diagnostic tool in higher-risk groups or to monitor cancer recurrence after therapeutic treatment.

Impact: The ability to accurately and inexpensively diagnose ovarian cancer will have a significant positive effect on ovarian cancer treatment and outcome. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2262–71. ©2010 AACR.
Predictors of Sun Protection Behaviors and Severe Sunburn in an International Online Study
Authors: Bränström Richard , Kasparian Nadine A. , Chang Yu-mei , Affleck Paul , Tibben Aad , Aspinwall Lisa G. , Azizi Esther , Baron-Epel Orna , Battistuzzi Linda , Bergman Wilma , Bruno William , Chan May , Cuellar Francisco , Dębniak Tadeusz , Pjanova Dace , Ertmański Sławomir , Figl Adina , Gonzalez Melinda , Hayward Nicholas K. , Hocevar Marko , Kanetsky Peter A. , Leachman Sancy A. , Heisele Olita , Palmer Jane , Peric Barbara , Puig Susana , Schadendorf Dirk , Gruis Nelleke A. , Newton-Bishop Julia , Brandberg Yvonne
Published: September 2010

Background: The incidence of melanoma continues to increase in many countries, and primary prevention of melanoma includes avoidance of sunburn as well as adequate sun protection behavior. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of self-reported sun protection behaviors and sunburn in users of the Internet, and to identify the demographic, clinical, and attitudinal/motivational correlates of sun protection behaviors.

Methods: Self-report data were gathered on behalf of the GenoMEL consortium using an online survey available in 10 different languages, and 8,178 individuals successfully completed at least 80% of survey items, with 73% of respondents from Europe, 12% from Australia, 7% from the United States, 2% from Israel, and 6% from other countries.

Results: Half of all respondents and 27% of those with a previous melanoma reported at least one severe sunburn during the previous 12 months. The strongest factors associated with sun protection behavior were perceived barriers to protection (β = −0.44/β = −0.37), and respondents who reported a positive attitude toward suntans were less likely to protect (β = −0.16/β = −0.14). Reported use of protective clothing and shade, as well as avoidance of midday sun exposure, were more strongly related to reduced risk of sunburn than sunscreen use.

Conclusions: Despite widespread dissemination of public health messages about the importance of sun protection, a substantial proportion of this international sample, including respondents with a previous melanoma, reported inadequate sun protection behaviors resulting in severe sunburn.

Impact: Future strategies to decrease sunburn should target the practical, social, and psychological barriers associated with nonuptake of sun protection. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2199–210. ©2010 AACR.
Metabolic Factors and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Prospective Analysis of almost 580,000 Men and Women in the Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project
Authors: Johansen Dorthe , Stocks Tanja , Jonsson Håkan , Lindkvist Björn , Björge Tone , Concin Hans , Almquist Martin , Häggström Christel , Engeland Anders , Ulmer Hanno , Hallmans Göran , Selmer Randi , Nagel Gabriele , Tretli Steinar , Stattin Pär , Manjer Jonas
Published: September 2010

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between factors in metabolic syndrome (MetS; single and combined) and the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Methods: The Metabolic Syndrome and Cancer Project is a pooled cohort containing data on body mass index, blood pressure, and blood levels of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides. During follow-up, 862 individuals were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to calculate relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals using the abovementioned factors categorized into quintiles and transformed into z-scores. All z-scores were summarized and a second z-transformation creating a composite z-score for MetS was done. All risk estimates were calibrated to correct for a regression dilution bias.

Results: The trend over quintiles was positively associated with the risk of pancreatic cancer for mid-blood pressure (mid-BP) and glucose in men and for body mass index, mid-BP, and glucose in women. The z-score for the adjusted mid-BP (RR, 1.10; 1.01-1.20) and the calibrated z-score for glucose (RR, 1.37; 1.14-1.34) were positively associated with pancreatic cancer in men. In women, a positive association was found for calibrated z-scores for mid-BP (RR, 1.34; 1.08-1.66), for the calibrated z-score for glucose (RR, 1.98; 1.41-2.76), and for the composite z-score for MetS (RR, 1.58; 1.34-1.87).

Conclusion: Our study adds further evidence to a possible link between abnormal glucose metabolism and risk of pancreatic cancer.

Impact: To our knowledge, this is the first study on MetS and pancreatic cancer using prediagnostic measurements of the examined factors. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2307–17. ©2010 AACR.