bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta‐Analysis of Association between Particulate Matter and Stroke Attack
Authors: Li Xiu‐Yang , Yu Xiao‐Bo , Liang Wei‐Wei , Yu Nan , Wang Li , Ye Xu‐Jun , Chen Kun , Bian Ping‐Da
Published: June 2012

Aims: We conducted systematic review as well as meta‐analyses on the association between particulate matter and daily stroke attack from a number of epidemiologic studies. Methods: Twelve quantitative studies about the associations between particulate matter and stroke attack met the inclusive criteria. We evaluated the odds ratio (OR) of stroke attack associated with per 10 μg/m3 increase of the concentration of PM10 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm) or PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μm) as effect scale, and a sensitivity analysis for the results was conducted. Results: In the time‐series design, PM10 exposure wasn't related to an increased risk of daily stroke attack [OR per 10 μg/m3 = 1.002, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.999∼1.005], PM2.5 exposure were related to an increased risk of daily stroke attack (OR per 10 μg/m3 = 1.006, 95%CI: 1.002∼1.010]; but in the case‐crossover studies, PM10 exposure was related to increase in risk of daily stroke attack (OR per 10 μg/m3= 1.028, 95%CI: 1.001∼1.057). PM2.5 exposure was not significant association with daily stroke attack (OR per 10 μg/m3= 1.016, 95%CI: 0.937∼1.097). Sensitivity analysis showed that the results for PM10, PM2.5 and daily stroke attack were robust in the time‐series design. Conclusions: We found some evidence for an effect of air pollutants on stroke attack risk.
Impact of process variables on the micromeritic and physicochemical properties of spray-dried porous microparticles, part I: introduction of a new morphology classification system
Authors: Paluch Krzysztof J , Tajber Lidia , Corrigan Owen I , Healy Anne Marie
Published: June 2012

Objectives

This work investigated the impact of spray drying variables such as feed concentration, solvent composition and the drying mode, on the micromeritic properties of chlorothiazide sodium (CTZNa) and chlorothiazide potassium (CTZK).

Methods

Microparticles were prepared by spray drying and characterised using thermal analysis, helium pycnometry, laser diffraction, specific surface area analysis and scanning electron microscopy.

Key findings

Microparticles produced under different process conditions presented several types of morphology. To systematise the description of morphology of microparticles, a novel morphology classification system was introduced. The shape of the microparticles was described as spherical (1) or irregular (2) and the surface was classified as smooth (A) or crumpled (B). Three classes of morphology of microparticles were discerned visually: class I, non-porous; classes II and III, comprising differing types of porosity characteristics. The interior was categorised as solid/continuous (α), hollow (β), unknown (γ) and hollow with microparticulate content (δ). Nanoporous microparticles of CTZNa and CTZK, produced without recirculation of the drying gas, had the largest specific surface area of 72.3 and 90.2 m2/g, respectively, and presented morphology of class 1BIIIα.

Conclusions

Alteration of spray drying process variables, particularly solvent composition and feed concentration can have a significant effect on the morphology of spray dried microparticulate products. Morphology of spray dried particles may be usefully described using the morphology classification system.
Polyphenolic profile and biological activity of Salvia splendens leaves
Authors: Moharram Fatma Abd-elkader , Marzouk Mohamed Soubhi , El-Shenawy Siham Mustafa , Gaara Ahmed Hamed , El Kady Wafaa Mostafa
Published: June 2012

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate a new flavone triglycoside, together with eleven phenolic metabolites from 80% aqueous methanol extract of S. splendens leaves (AME) and assessment of its hypoglycemic and antiinflammatory activities along with in vitro antioxidant effect.

Methods

The phenolic composition of S. splendens leaves was analyzed using UV, 1D and 2D NMR and negative ESI-MS spectroscopy. Hypoglycemic activity of AME was assessed by measuring blood glucose in streptozotocin induced-diabetic rats. Antiinflammatory activity was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced paw oedema test. Antioxidant activity was evaluated in vitro using DPPH test.

Key findings

Twelve phenolic metabolites including three phenolic acids, namely caffeic acid 1, rosmarinic acid 2 and methyl rosmarinate 3; four flavone glycosides viz the new compound luteolin 7-O-(4″,6″-di-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside 4, apigenin 7-O-β-D-rutinoside 5, cosmosiin 6 and cinaroside 7, together with four flavones aglycone, luteolin 8, apigenin 9, pedalitin 10 and crisiliol 11 in addition to one coumarin, 6,7-dihydroxycoumarin 12 were isolated from the leaves of S. splendens Sellow ex Roem & Schult. The AME of S. splendens was non toxic to mice up to 5 g/kg b.wt. it exhibited a significant hypoglycemic activity at 250 and 500 mg/kg as compared with control pre-drug (zero time) for each group as well as the diabetic control. Moreover, AME exhibited a significant antiinflammatory activity only at 1000 mg/kg in comparison to indomethacin. Finally, AME exhibited a marked significant scavenging activity against DPPH; the maximum reactive reaction rate after 5 min was 62.9, 82.5, 83.7, 84.3 and 85.1% for the concentrations 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/ml, respectively in comparison to L-ascorbic acid (86.8%).

Conclusions

This is the first study reporting the identification of a new flavone triglycoside, along with eleven known phenolic metabolites from AME of S. splendens. It showed significant hypoglycemic and antiinflammatory effects in dose dependant manner. Moreover it showed an in vitro antioxidant activity.
A site-specific PEGylated analog of exendin-4 with improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in vivo
Authors: Gao Mingming , Jin Yuhao , Tong Yue , Tian Hong , Gao Xiangdong , Yao Wenbing
Published: June 2012

Objectives

Our aim was to improve the in vivo pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of exendin-4 by using site-specific PEGylation.

Methods

We designed the PEGylated peptide based on its structure and activity relationship and prepared the conjugate by two steps of chromatographic purification. After obtained the conjugate we confirmed its glucose-lowering activity in normal mice and determined its half-life in SD rats. Then we evaluated its anti-diabetic activity in a multiple low-dose Streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice model.

Key findings

With the process established in this study the product conjugate was obtained with a yield of over 60% and purity of above 99%. The conjugate maintained its original conformation after modification. In SD rats its half-life was prolonged to 27.12 ± 5.75 h which was 17.61-fold longer than that of the natural exendin-4 for which the half-life was only 1.54 ± 0.47 h. Its anti-diabetic activity was significantly improved in the diabetic mice.

Conclusions

Compare with native exendin-4, the C-terminal site-specific PEGylated analog of exendin-4 obtained in this study has an improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in vivo and could be regarded as a potential candidate for the future development of anti-diabetic drugs.
Dancing to the Tune of the Glacial Cycles
Authors: Kurita Naoyuki
Published: June 2012

An oxygen isotopic record from Borneo shows how the tropical water cycle responded to deglaciations and interglacials in the past half-million years.
Gathering Interstellar Gas
Authors: Redfield Seth
Published: June 2012

Observations by the IBEX spacecraft reveal details of the heliosphere—the boundary between our solar system and the rest of the universe.
Tackling the Microbiome
Authors: Hood Leroy
Published: June 2012

Microorganisms represent the majority of life on earth, populating a wide range of niches on its surface, underground, in the oceans, in the atmosphere, and both on and inside all multicellular organisms. This “microbiome” will clearly play a critical role as humans struggle to deal with society's major challenges—health care, agriculture, energy, and the environment. As one example, the human gut microbiome contributes 36% of the small molecules that are found in human blood, and it also plays a major role in creating susceptibility to certain human diseases. In recent years, a variety of microbial communities have been characterized through such efforts as the Human Microbiome Project and the Earth Microbiome Project. But mapping these trillions upon trillions of microbes and analyzing the vast amounts of data that are accumulating will require new integrative approaches aimed at understanding how microorganisms function and are interrelated.
China Pushes the ‘Internet of Things’
Authors: Hvistendahl Mara
Published: June 2012

"The Internet of Things," which merges cloud computing with radio-frequency identification, wireless sensors, and other forms of embedded intelligence, has become a buzzword in China.
Drosophila melanogaster as a Model Organism for Bluetongue Virus Replication and Tropism
Authors: Shaw Andrew E. , Veronesi Eva , Maurin Guillemette , Ftaich Najate , Guiguen Francois , Rixon Frazer , Ratinier Maxime , Mertens Peter , Carpenter Simon , Palmarini Massimo , Terzian Christophe , Arnaud Frederick
Published: June 2012

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is the etiological agent of bluetongue (BT), a hemorrhagic disease of ruminants that can cause high levels of morbidity and mortality. BTV is an arbovirus transmitted between its ruminant hosts by
Culicoides
biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). Recently, Europe has experienced some of the largest BT outbreaks ever recorded, including areas with no known history of the disease, leading to unprecedented economic and animal welfare issues. The current lack of genomic resources and genetic tools for
Culicoides
restricts any detailed study of the mechanisms involved in the virus-insect interactions. In contrast, the genome of the fruit fly (
Drosophila melanogaster
) has been successfully sequenced, and it is used extensively as a model of molecular pathways due to the existence of powerful genetic technology. In this study,
D. melanogaster
is investigated as a model for the replication and tropism of BTV. Using reverse genetics, a modified BTV-1 that expresses the fluorescent mCherry protein fused to the viral nonstructural protein NS3 (BTV-1/NS3mCherry) was generated. We demonstrate that BTV-1/NS3mCherry is not only replication competent as it retains many characteristics of the wild-type virus but also replicates efficiently in
D. melanogaster
after removal of the bacterial endosymbiont
Wolbachia pipientis
by antibiotic treatment. Furthermore, confocal microscopy shows that the tissue tropism of BTV-1/NS3mCherry in
D. melanogaster
resembles that described previously for BTV in
Culicoides
. Overall, the data presented in this study demonstrate the feasibility of using
D. melanogaster
as a genetic model to investigate BTV-insect interactions that cannot be otherwise addressed in vector species.
Modulation of Translation Initiation Efficiency in Classical Swine Fever Virus
Authors: Friis Martin Barfred , Rasmussen Thomas Bruun , Belsham Graham J.
Published: June 2012

Modulation of translation initiation efficiency on classical swine fever virus (CSFV) RNA can be achieved by targeted mutations within the internal ribosome entry site (IRES). In this study, cDNAs corresponding to the wild-type (wt) or mutant forms of the IRES of CSFV strain Paderborn were amplified and inserted into dicistronic reporter plasmids encoding Fluc and Rluc under the control of a T7 promoter. The mutations were within domains II, IIId
1
, and IIIf of the IRES. The plasmids were transfected into baby hamster kidney (BHK) cells infected with recombinant vaccinia virus vTF7-3, which expresses the T7 RNA polymerase. IRES mutants with different levels of IRES activity were identified and then introduced by homologous recombination into bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) containing CSFV Paderborn cDNA downstream of a T7 promoter. From the wt and mutant BACs, full-length CSFV RNA transcripts were produced
in vitro
and electroporated into porcine PK15 cells. Rescued mutant viruses were obtained from RNAs that contained mutations within domain IIIf which retained more than 75% of the wt translation efficiency. Sequencing of cDNA generated from these rescued viruses verified the maintenance of the introduced changes within the IRES. The growth characteristics of each rescued mutant virus were compared to those of the wt virus. It was shown that viable mutant viruses with reduced translation initiation efficiency can be designed and generated and that viruses containing mutations within domain IIIf of the IRES have reduced growth in cell culture compared to the wt virus.
A Vesiculovirus Showing a Steepened Transcription Gradient and Dominant
trans
-Repression of Virus Transcription
Authors: Hodges Erin N. , Heinrich Bianca S. , Connor John H.
Published: June 2012

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is a prototype nonsegmented, negative-sense virus used to examine viral functions of a broad family of viruses, including human pathogens. Here we demonstrate that S
2
VSV, an isolate with a small plaque phenotype compared to other Indiana strain viruses, has a transcription defect resulting in an altered pattern and rapid decline of transcription. The S
2
VSV transcription gradient is dominant over the wild-type transcription in a coinfection. This is the first characterization of an altered gradient of transcription not dependent on RNA template sequence or host response and may provide insight into new approaches to viral attenuation.
Self-reported cocaine use, emergency physician testing and outcomes in suspected acute coronary syndromes: a nested matched case–control study
Authors: Wang Yang , Lindsell Christopher J , Pollack Charles V , Hollander Judd , Diercks Deborah B , Kirk J Douglas , Anantharaman Venkataraman , Gibler W Brian , Hoekstra James , Peacock W Frank
Published: June 2012

Objectives

The primary purpose was to compare the odds of acute coronary syndrome-pertinent diagnostic testing between self-reported cocaine users and non-users at the turn of the century. The secondary purpose was to compare the odds of acute coronary syndrome outcomes between cocaine users and non-users.

Design

Nested matched case–control study using data from the Internet Tracking Registry of Acute Coronary Syndromes.

Setting

Extracted data of patients from eight US institutions composed of six academic and two community hospitals, with census varying between 10 000 and 160 000 visits per year.

Participants

249 cases of self-reported cocaine users and 249 matched controls. Matching was based on age, race, sex and any history of known coronary artery disease. Exclusion criteria were new ST elevations on initial ECG and initial physician impression of acute myocardial infarction.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcome was the conditional odds of undergoing non-invasive and invasive testing for coronary artery disease. Secondary outcome was the occurrences of adverse cardiac outcomes within 30 days.

Results

Cocaine users underwent diagnostic testing at similar rates compared with non-users (9.6% vs 8.0%, OR 1.24, CI 0.65 to 2.34). Adverse cardiovascular outcomes occurred in four (1.6%) cocaine users and in seven (2.8%) controls.

Conclusions

There was no increase in tendency for testing associated with self-reported history of cocaine use between 1999 and 2001. This suggests that even 10 years ago, cocaine use already had only a limited role in the Emergency Department (ED) physician's decision-making process. Similar data analyses of detailed registries can offer important contextual information that can better direct resources for future comparative effectiveness research.
Safety profile and outcome of mild therapeutic hypothermia in patients following cardiac arrest: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xiao Guoguang , Guo Qin , Shu Min , Xie Xiaoping , Deng Jianjun , Zhu Yu , Wan Chaomin
Published: June 2012

Evidence has shown that mild therapeutic hypothermia (MTH) could improve survival and neurological outcome in patients following cardiac arrest. But this therapy may cause some adverse effects. The authors sought to take a systematic approach to describe the safety aspects and outcome of MTH following cardiac arrest to help clinical practice. MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, BIOSIS Previews and clinicaltrials.gov were searched up to June 2011. Bibliographies of relevant studies were also reviewed. Comparative studies reporting the mortality or any other studies reporting any kind of adverse events in patients undergoing MTH after cardiac arrest and published in English were included. Of 1742 abstracts, 63 studies were included. Most adverse events potentially associated with therapeutic hypothermia were not significantly different between the hypothermia therapy and the normothermia groups. No significant difference was found in the inhospital mortality, bleeding, pneumonia and bradycardia events between surface and endovascular-cooled groups in this study. Cooling device-related adverse events were generally mild. Serious adverse events potentially attributable to therapeutic hypothermia were seldom reported. MTH was associated with reduced inhospital mortality, mortality at 1 month and at 6 months. Evidence about the safety of MTH in children has been limited. These results suggest that while it may result in some adverse events, MTH is generally safe in patients following cardiac arrest and could improve the short-term and long-term survival of comatose patients after cardiac arrest. But awareness of these adverse events should be kept in mind in clinical practice.
The utility of injury narratives for prioritising future prevention activities in small and medium enterprises in rural Vietnam
Authors: Marucci-Wellman Helen , Willetts Joanna L , Diep Nguyen Bich , Binh Ta Thi Tuyet
Published: June 2012

Objectives

Injuries are a leading cause of work-related disability and death in rapidly developing countries such as Vietnam. The authors' objective was to demonstrate the utility of detailed injury narratives, derived from a household survey, in providing information on the determinants of work-related injuries to inform potential intervention targets.

Methods

In a cross-sectional survey administered to 2615 households of a rapidly developing community of Vietnam where many workers engage in both agriculture and industrial work, the authors collected information about self-reported work-related injuries, annual hours worked in each industry and narrative text describing the circumstances of each injury. The authors used a customised coding taxonomy to describe injury scenarios.

Results

Several intervention themes emerged, including the implementation of machine guarding, the use of cut resistant gloves and safety glasses which would benefit the small- and medium-sized enterprises. Calculation of incidence rates using full-time equivalents, stratified by work group, provided some unexpected observations of the risks of working in agriculture; workers who work in agriculture in addition to another industry are at an increased risk of fatigue or overexertion and other consequences ofworking too hardin their agricultural activities.

Conclusions

A lack of aggregate injury statistics makes it difficult for the owners of small- and medium-sized enterprises to recognise a priori the most effective safety interventions. This analysis of detailed injury narratives with an appropriate taxonomic basis offers the ability to focus on the level of cause, activity and source and may inform the choice of various potential interventions at the workplace or enterprise level.
Combined surgical and endovascular treatment of complex cerebrovascular diseases in the hybrid operating room
Authors: Murayama Yuichi , Arakawa Hideki , Ishibashi Toshihiro , Kawamura Daichi , Ebara Masaki , Irie Koreaki , Takao Hiroyuki , Ikeuchi Satoshi , Ogawa Takeki , Kato Masataka , Kajiwara Ikki , Nishimura Shingo , Abe Toshiaki
Published: June 2012

Background

Although most neurovascular diseases can be treated either by microsurgical or endovascular means, a subset of patients may require a combined approach. Patient transfer from the operating room (OR) to the angiosuite has been a fundamental drawback of this type of approach.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to report our clinical experience performing combined surgical and endovascular procedures for neurovascular diseases in the hybrid OR.

Methods

29 patients with neurovascular diseases underwent combined endovascular and surgical procedures in a single session: 16 were scheduled combined treatment and 13 were emergency combined procedures. Of the emergency cases, three were rescue surgeries after endovascular complications. Three patients had ruptured intracranial aneurysms, eight had unruptured intracranial aneurysms, eight had arteriovenous malformations and eight had arteriovenous fistulae; two patients had either a spinal tumor or dural arteriovenous fistulae.

Results

All combined procedures were performed in a single session without changing the patient's surgical position. In cases of ruptured arteriovenous malformations or aneurysms with hematoma, an emergency embolization was performed to assist the surgical procedure. Combined superficial temporal artery–middle cerebral artery (STA–MCA) bypass followed by endovascular parent artery trapping were successfully performed for complex large or giant aneurysms. There were two periprocedural ischemic complications. Of the three patients who underwent surgical rescue after endovascular complications, two remained intact and one died despite immediate surgical procedures.

Conclusion

A combined endovascular and surgical approach conducted in a hybrid OR provides a new strategy for the treatment of complex neurovascular diseases.
MODELING OF ORGANELLE ENTRY IN AN AXON AND DENDRITE
Authors: KUZNETSOV A. V.
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this paper is to develop a mathematical description of cargo transport in the entrance regions of axons and dendrites. The model accounts for the difference in microtubule (MT) orientation between axons and dendrites: axons have a uniform MT polarity orientation while dendrites have a mixed MT polarity orientation. Because of that, cargos pulled by dynein motors can enter dendrites but cannot enter axons. It is thus assumed that cargos are targeted to axons by associating them with kinesin motors and cargos are targeted to dendrites by associating them with dynein motors. Analytical solutions of the developed equations describing cargo concentrations in the entrance regions of axons and dendrites are obtained.
ON TWO-DIMENSIONAL WHOOPING COUGH DYNAMICS OF CONVECTION TYPE
Authors: OBAIDAT SALEEM
Published: June 2012

Analyzes has been carried out for the two-dimensional whooping cough model. The solution of the arising nonlinear initial/boundary value problem is computed by a homotopy analysis method (HAM). Convergence of the derived solution is highlighted. The plotted graphs show great confidence into the used methodology of solution.
CONSTRUCTING A MINIMUM PHYLOGENETIC NETWORK FROM A DENSE TRIPLET SET
Authors: HABIB MICHEL , TO THU-HIEN
Published: June 2012

For a given set [Formula: see text] of species and a set [Formula: see text] of triplets on [Formula: see text], we seek to construct a phylogenetic network which is consistent with [Formula: see text] i.e. which represents all triplets of [Formula: see text]. The level of a network is defined as the maximum number of hybrid vertices in its biconnected components. When [Formula: see text] is dense, there exist polynomial time algorithms to construct level-0,1 and 2 networks (Aho et al., 1981; Jansson, Nguyen and Sung, 2006; Jansson and Sung, 2006; Iersel et al., 2009). For higher levels, partial answers were obtained in the paper by Iersel and Kelk (2008), with a polynomial time algorithm for simple networks. In this paper, we detail the first complete answer for the general case, solving a problem proposed in Jansson and Sung (2006) and Iersel et al. (2009). For any k fixed, it is possible to construct a level-k network having the minimum number of hybrid vertices and consistent with [Formula: see text], if there is any, in time [Formula: see text].
Distribution of Phosphorus Atoms and Carrier Concentrations in Single-Crystal Silicon Doped by Catalytically Generated Phosphorous Radicals
Authors: Hayakawa Taro , Nakashima Yuki , Koyama Koichi , Ohdaira Keisuke , Matsumura Hideki
Published: June 2012

A phosphorus (P)-doped ultrathin n+ layer is formed on crystalline silicon (c-Si) using radicals generated by the catalytic cracking reaction of phosphine (PH3) gas with a heated catalyzer. The carrier concentration and the depth distributions of P atoms are investigated by Hall effect and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), respectively. The surface of the p-type c-Si substrate is converted to n-type c-Si by this doping even at a substrate temperature of 20 °C, when the tungsten (W) catalyzer is heated at 1300 °C. SIMS measurements demonstrate that P atoms exist on the c-Si surface. However, the distributions of P atoms obtained by SIMS do not change, even for the increase in substrate temperature from 80 to 350 °C or the increase in radical exposure time from 60 to 3600 s. Although the sheet carrier concentration increased with the substrate temperature, the sheet carrier concentration increased only slightly with the radical exposure time. It is revealed that the doping mechanism does not appear to be the same as that of the thermal diffusion, but that the reaction of the P-related species with Si atoms on the surface plays a key role for this radical doping.
Electrospray Deposition of Poly(3-hexylthiophene) Films for Crystalline Silicon/Organic Hybrid Junction Solar Cells
Authors: Ino Tomohisa , Ono Masahiro , Miyauchi Naoto , Liu Qiming , Tang Zeguo , Ishikawa Ryo , Ueno Keiji , Shirai Hajime
Published: June 2012

The electrospray deposition (ESD) of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) films for use in crystalline silicon/organic hybrid heterojunction solar cells on a crystalline silicon (c-Si) wafer was investigated using real-time characterization by spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE). In contrast to the nonuniform deposition of products frequently obtained by spin-coating, a uniform deposition of P3HT films was achieved on flat and textured hydrophobic c-Si wafers by adjusting the deposition conditions. Similar findings were also obtained for the deposition of conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) on P3HT. The c-Si/P3HT/PEDOT:PSS heterojunction solar cells exhibited efficiencies of 4.1 and 6.3% on flat and textured c-Si wafers, respectively. These findings suggest that ESD is a promising method for the uniform deposition of P3HT and PEDOT:PSS films on flat and textured hydrophobic substrates.
Three-Dimensional Nanostructure Fabrication by Controlling Downward Growth on Focused-Ion-Beam Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Guo Dengji , Kometani Reo , Warisawa Shin'ichi , Ishihara Sunao
Published: June 2012

Focused-ion-beam chemical vapor deposition (FIB-CVD) is a key technology to achieve the arbitrary three-dimensional (3D) nano- and microstructure fabrication. However, most of 3D nanostructure fabrications have focused on upward or lateral growth whereas few of them focused on downward growth. The downward growth characteristics of air nanowires were investigated in order to achieve the fabrication of more arbitrary 3D nanostructures. As a result, it was not able to fabricate a 1 µm long downward growth nanowire with an angle lower than -10°. Also, we found that a nanowire with an angle lower than -18° cannot be fabricated. Furthermore, we demonstrated the fabrication of 3D nanostructure including downward growth by changing the scan speeds of Ga+FIB during fabrication. With controlling the downward growth, the fabrication of more various 3D nanostructures can be achieved.
Teaching baroreflex physiology to medical students: a comparison of quiz-based and conventional teaching strategies in a laboratory exercise
Authors: Berg Ronan M. G. , Plovsing Ronni R. , Damgaard Morten
Published: June 2012

Quiz-based and collaborative teaching strategies have previously been found to be efficient for the improving meaningful learning of physiology during lectures. These approaches have, however, not been investigated during laboratory exercises. In the present study, we compared the impact of solving quizzes individually and in groups with conventional teaching on the immediate learning during a laboratory exercise. We implemented two quizzes in a mandatory 4-h laboratory exercise on baroreflex physiology. A total of 155 second-year medical students were randomized to solve quizzes individually ( intervention group I, n = 57), in groups of three to four students ( intervention group II, n = 56), or not to perform any quizzes (control; intervention group III, n = 42). After the laboratory exercise, all students completed an individual test, which encompassed two recall questions, two intermediate questions, and two integrated questions. The integrated questions were of moderate and advanced difficulty, respectively. Finally, students completed an evaluation form. Intervention group I reached the highest total test scores and proved best at answering the integrated question of advanced difficulty. Moreover, there was an overall difference between groups for student evaluations of the quality of the teaching, which was highest for intervention group II. In conclusion, solving quizzes individually during a laboratory exercise may enhance learning, whereas solving quizzes in groups is associated with higher student satisfaction.
Showercap Mindmap: a spatial activity for learning physiology terminology and location
Authors: Vanags Thea , Budimlic Mira , Herbert Elissa , Montgomery Melena M. , Vickers Tracy
Published: June 2012

Students struggle with the volume and complexity of physiology terminology. We compared first-year undergraduate psychology students' learning of physiological terms using two teaching methods: one verbal (control group; n = 16) and one spatial and multisensory (experimental group; n = 19). The experimental group used clear plastic shower caps to mark brain regions and affix labels to another participant's head. The control group learned the material verbally through a game. When tested verbally, both the control and experimental groups recalled more of the 10 terms immediately after the activity (+106% and +83%, respectively) and 2 wk later (+53% and +31%, respectively) than at the pretest ( P < 0.0005). When participants' knowledge was tested spatially (labeling a brain diagram), the experimental group recalled more terms at the posttest (+76%) and followup (+73%) than at the pretest ( P < 0.0005), but the control group who showed no improvement at either time point (+12% and +14%, respectively). These findings support the notion that spatial and multisensory learning produces improved spatial recall over time while also supporting the notion of transfer-appropriate processing.
Active physiology learning in a diverse class: an analysis of medical student responses in terms of sex, home language, and self-reported test performance
Authors: Higgins-Opitz Susan B. , Tufts Mark
Published: June 2012

The student body at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine (NRMSM) is very diverse, representing many cultures, religions, and languages. Research has shown that weakness in English can impact student performance. Recent studies have also highlighted sex-based differences in students' learning and listening styles. These factors pose both challenges and opportunities for teachers of physiology. Student presentations were incorporated for a number of years into the traditional didactic second-year medical physiology curriculum at the NRMSM. Feedback obtained about the perceived benefits of these presentations for the learning of gastrointestinal and endocrine physiology included demographic data pertaining to students' sex, home language, and self-reported performance in tests. Analysis of the 50-item questionnaire responses, obtained over a 2-yr period, provided some interesting insights. Student responses to the items differed significantly in 27 of the 50 items in the questionnaire, based on sex alone (22%), sex and home language (7%), home language alone (37%), performance alone (26%), and performance and home language (7%). Our analyses of student perceptions support the findings of other studies and show that factors such as sex, home language, and student performance can play an important role in the way students are motivated to learn. In designing active learning strategies, academics need to take into account the potential influences that might affect student learning in diverse, multicultural, and multilingual classes.
Noncompetitive blocking of human GLUT1 hexose transporter by methylxanthines reveals an exofacial regulatory binding site
Authors: Ojeda Paola , Pérez Alejandra , Ojeda Lorena , Vargas-Uribe Mauricio , Rivas Coralia I. , Salas Monica , Vera Juan Carlos , Reyes Alejandro M.
Published: June 2012

Glucose transporter (GLUT)1 has become an attractive target to block glucose uptake in malignant cells since most cancer cells overexpress GLUT1 and are sensitive to glucose deprivation. Methylxanthines are natural compounds that inhibit glucose uptake; however, the mechanism of inhibition remains unknown. Here, we used a combination of binding and glucose transport kinetic assays to analyze in detail the effects of caffeine, pentoxifylline, and theophylline on hexose transport in human erythrocytes. The displacement of previously bound cytochalasin B revealed a direct interaction between the methylxanthines and GLUT1. Methylxanthines behave as noncompetitive blockers (inhibition constant values of 2–3 mM) in exchange and zero- trans efflux assays, whereas mixed inhibition with a notable uncompetitive component is observed in zero- trans influx assays (inhibition constant values of 5–12 mM). These results indicate that methylxanthines do not bind to either exofacial or endofacial d-glucose-binding sites but instead interact at a different site accessible by the external face of the transporter. Additionally, infinite- cis exit assays (Sen-Widdas assays) showed that only pentoxifylline disturbed d-glucose for binding to the exofacial substrate site. Interestingly, coinhibition assays showed that methylxanthines bind to a common site on the transporter. We concluded that there is a methylxanthine regulatory site on the external surface of the transporter, which is close but distinguishable from the d-glucose external site. Therefore, the methylxanthine moiety may become an attractive framework for the design of novel specific noncompetitive facilitative GLUT inhibitors.
Amniotic Fluid and Amniotic Membrane Stem Cells: Marker Discovery
Authors: Roubelakis Maria G. , Trohatou Ourania , Anagnou Nicholas P.
Published: June 2012

Amniotic fluid (AF) and amniotic membrane (AM) have been recently characterized as promising sources of stem or progenitor cells. Both not only contain subpopulations with stem cell characteristics resembling to adult stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells, but also exhibit some embryonic stem cell properties like (i) expression of pluripotency markers, (ii) high expansion in vitro, or (iii) multilineage differentiation capacity. Recent efforts have been focused on the isolation and the detailed characterization of these stem cell types. However, variations in their phenotype, their heterogeneity described by different groups, and the absence of a single marker expressed only in these cells may prevent the isolation of a pure homogeneous stem cell population from these sources and their potential use of these cells in therapeutic applications. In this paper, we aim to summarize the recent progress in marker discovery for stem cells derived from fetal sources such as AF and AM, using novel methodologies based on transcriptomics, proteomics, or secretome analyses.
Particle Board and Oriented Strand Board Prepared with Nanocellulose‐Reinforced Adhesive
Authors: Veigel Stefan , Rathke Jörn , Weigl Martin , Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang
Published: June 2012

Adhesives on the basis of urea‐formaldehyde (UF) and melamine‐urea‐formaldehyde (MUF) are extensively used in the production of wood‐based panels. In the present study, the attempt was made to improve the mechanical board properties by reinforcing these adhesives with cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). The latter were produced from dissolving grade beech pulp by a mechanical homogenization process. Adhesive mixtures with a CNF content of 0, 1, and 3 wt% based on solid resin were prepared by mixing an aqueous CNF suspension with UF and MUF adhesives. Laboratory‐scale particle boards and oriented strand boards (OSBs) were produced, and the mechanical and fracture mechanical properties were investigated. Particle boards prepared with UF containing 1 wt% CNF showed a reduced thickness swelling and better internal bond and bending strength than boards produced with pure UF. The reinforcing effect of CNF was even more obvious for OSB where a significant improvement of strength properties of 16% was found. For both, particle board and OSB, mode I fracture energy and fracture toughness were the parameters with the greatest improvement indicating that the adhesive bonds were markedly toughened by the CNF addition.
Cooperative Data Processing Algorithm Based on Mobile Agent in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Shukui , Sun Yong , Fan Jianxi , Huang He
Published: June 2012

Mobile agent (MA) systems provide new capabilities for energy-efficient data processing by flexibly planning its itinerary for facilitating agent-based data collection and aggregation. In this paper, we present a cooperative data processing algorithm based on mobile agent (MA-CDP), and considers MA in multihop environments and can autonomously clone and migrate themselves in response to environmental changes. MA accounts for performing data processing and making data aggregation decisions at nodes rather than bringing data back to a central processor, and redundant sensory data will be eliminated. The results of our simulation show that MA-based cooperative data processing provides better performance than directed diffusion in terms of end-to-end delivery latency, packet delivery ratio, and energy consumption.
Recent Advances in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases Based on GSH Delivery Systems
Authors: Cacciatore Ivana , Baldassarre Leonardo , Fornasari Erika , Mollica Adriano , Pinnen Francesco
Published: June 2012

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease(AD), are a group of pathologies characterized by a progressive and specific loss of certain brain cell populations. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis play interrelated roles in these disorders. It is well documented that free radical oxidative damage, particularly on neuronal lipids, proteins, DNA, and RNA, is extensive in PD and AD brains. Moreover, alterations of glutathione (GSH) metabolism in brain have been implicated in oxidative stress and neurodegenerative diseases. As a consequence, the reduced GSH levels observed in these pathologies have stimulated a number of researchers to find new potential approaches for maintaining or restoring GSH levels. Unfortunately, GSH delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) is limited due to a poor stability and low bioavailability. Medicinal-chemistry- and technology-based approaches are commonly used to improve physicochemical, biopharmaceutical, and drug delivery properties of therapeutic agents. This paper will focus primarily on these approaches used in order to replenish intracellular GSH levels, which are reduced in neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we discuss the beneficial properties of these approaches and their potential implications for the future treatment of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases, and more specifically from PD and AD.
Application of Stochastic Sensitivity Analysis to Integrated Force Method
Authors: Wei X. F. , Patnaik S. N.
Published: June 2012

As a new formulation in structural analysis, Integrated Force Method has been successfully applied to many structures for civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering due to the accurate estimate of forces in computation. Right now, it is being further extended to the probabilistic domain. For the assessment of uncertainty effect in system optimization and identification, the probabilistic sensitivity analysis of IFM was further investigated in this study. A set of stochastic sensitivity analysis formulation of Integrated Force Method was developed using the perturbation method. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate its application. Its efficiency and accuracy were also substantiated with direct Monte Carlo simulations and the reliability-based sensitivity method. The numerical algorithm was shown to be readily adaptable to the existing program since the models of stochastic finite element and stochastic design sensitivity are almost identical.
Evaluation of Clinical Variables Associated with Increased Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Middle-Aged Hypertensive Women
Authors: Trindade Michelle , Martucci Renata Brum , Burlá Adriana K. , Oigman Wille , Neves Mario Fritsch , Araújo Denizar Vianna
Published: June 2012

It has been previously documented that carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is a predictor of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to identify clinical parameters associated with an increased cIMT treated hypertensive women. Female patients (n=116) with essential hypertension, aged 40–65 years, were included in this study. Vascular ultrasound was performed and the patients were divided into two groups according to the values of cIMT (< or ≥0.9 mm). Patients with greater cIMT presented significantly higher systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure. Serum HDL-cholesterol was significantly lower and CRP was significantly higher in the same group. There was a significant correlation between cIMT and age (r=0.25,P=0.007), systolic blood pressure (r=0.19,P=0.009), pulse pressure (r=0.30,P=0.001), and LDL-cholesterol (r=0.19,P=0.043). cIMT was correlated to CRP (r=0.31,P=0.007) and negatively correlated to HDL-cholesterol (r=0.33,P=0.001). In logistic regression, only HDL-cholesterol, CRP, and pulse pressure were shown to be independent variables associated to increased cIMT. In conclusion, pulse pressure, HDL-cholesterol, and CRP are variables correlated with cIMT in treated hypertensive women.
Effects of Nicotine on Emotional Reactivity in PTSD and Non-PTSD Smokers: Results of a Pilot fMRI Study
Authors: Froeliger Brett , Crowell Beckham Jean , Feldman Dennis Michelle , Victoria Kozink Rachel , Joseph McClernon Francis
Published: June 2012

There is evidence that individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may smoke in part to regulate negative affect. This pilot fMRI study examined the effects of nicotine on emotional information processing in smokers with and without PTSD. Across groups, nicotine increased brain activation in response to fearful/angry faces (compared to neutral faces) in ventral caudate. Patch x Group interactions were observed in brain regions involved in emotional and facial feature processing. These preliminary findings suggest that nicotine differentially modulates negative information processing in PTSD and non-PTSD smokers.
Tail Dependence for Regularly Varying Time Series
Authors: Shi Ai-Ju , Lin Jin-Guan
Published: June 2012

We use tail dependence functions to study tail dependence for regularly varying (RV) time series. First, tail dependence functions about RV time series are deduced through the intensity measure. Then, the relation between the tail dependence function and the intensity measure is established: they are biuniquely determined. Finally, we obtain the expressions of the tail dependence parameters based on the expectation of the RV components of the time series. These expressions are coincided with those obtained by the conditional probability. Some simulation examples are demonstrated to verify the results we established in this paper.
All-Trans Retinoic Acid-Induced Pseudotumor Cerebri during Induction Therapy for Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Holmes Dylan , Vishnu Prakash , Dorer Russell K. , Aboulafia David M.
Published: June 2012

All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a derivative of vitamin A, is an essential component in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Though considered to be a relatively safe drug, use of ATRA can lead to several side effects such as retinoic acid syndrome and pseudotumor cerebri (PC). PC is a rare disorder characterized by neurologic and ocular signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, but with normal cerebrospinal fluid composition and normal brain imaging. Most of the previous studies suggest that PC, as a complication of ATRA therapy, occurs predominantly in the pediatric age group. Herein, we report a rare case of ATRA-induced PC in a 38-year-old woman undergoing induction treatment for APL. Symptoms improved with discontinuation of ATRA and treatment with acetazolamide. Concomitant administration of medications such as triazole antifungals which influence the cytochrome P-450 system can exacerbate this potential complication of ATRA. In this paper, we also review the current literature, provide a descriptive analysis of clinical features, and discuss the principles of management of ATRA-induced PC.
All‐Optical Fiber Interferometer‐Based Methods for Ultra‐Wideband Signal Generation
Authors: Dridi Kais , Hamam Habib
Published: June 2012

We report two new, simple, and cost‐effective all‐optical methods to generate ultra‐wideband (UWB) impulse radio signals. The proposed methods are based on fiber‐interferometric structures, where an input pulse is split and propagates along the two interferometer arms. The interference of these pulses at the output of the interferometer leads to UWB pulse generation. A theoretical analysis is provided and some relevant simulation results are presented. Large bandwidths are obtained while satisfying the requirements of the Federal Communication Commission (FCC). With these two techniques, UWB pulses can be readily generated and cost‐effectively propagated through optical fibers.
Cast Nanostructured Films of Poly(methyl methacrylate‐b‐butyl acrylate)/Carbon Nanotubes: Influence of Poly(butyl acrylate)Content on Film Evaporation Rate, Morphology, and Electrical Resistance
Authors: Soriano-Corral F. , Ramos-de Valle L. F. , Enríquez-Medrano F. J. , De León-Martínez P. A. , López-Quintanilla M. L. , Cabrera-Álvarez E. N.
Published: June 2012

Nanocomposites of poly(methyl methacrylate‐b‐butyl acrylate)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes were prepared from different copolymers synthesized by RITP technique using iodine functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate) as macrochain transfer agent to obtain block copolymers with butyl acrylate as comonomer in a sequential copolymerization. Poly(butyl acrylate) contents of 7, 20, and 30 wt% were attained in each copolymer. These copolymers were used to prepare nanostructured films by casting process, using chloroform as solvent, and carboxyl functionalized MWCNT at 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, and 1.2 wt%. During the film preparation, the absolute drying rate (N) was calculated with respect to the poly(butyl acrylate) and MWCNT composition. For copolymers containing 7 and 20 wt% of poly(butyl acrylate) the N values slightly decrease with the MWCNT concentration, while for the suspension prepared with the copolymer at 30 wt% of poly(butyl acrylate) the N values decrease drastically down to 50% approximately. The MWCNT content at the percolation threshold point was found to be 0.8 wt%, for all nanostructured films. The dispersion of MWCNT within the polymer matrix decreased with increasing the poly(butyl acrylate) composition, but it did not affect the electrical properties, which is assumed to be due to induction of the bridging effect and the MWCNT preference to locate into the poly(methyl methacrylate) phase.