bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interactive Graphics for Computer Adaptive Testing
Authors: Cheng I. , Basu A. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractInteractive graphics are commonly used in games and have been shown to be successful in attracting the general audience. Instead of computer games, animations, cartoons, and videos being used only for entertainment, there is now an interest in using interactive graphics for ‘innovative testing’. Rather than traditional pen‐and‐paper tests, audio, video and graphics are being conceived as alternative means for more effective testing in the future. In this paper, we review some examples of graphics item types for testing. As well, we outline how games can be used to interactively test concepts; discuss designing chemistry item types with interactive 3D graphics; suggest approaches for automatically adjusting difficulty level in interactive graphics based questions; and propose strategies for giving partial marks for incorrect answers. We study how to test different cognitive skills, such as music, using multimedia interfaces; and also evaluate the effectiveness of our model. Methods for estimating difficulty level of a mathematical item type using Item Response Theory (IRT) and a molecule construction item type using Graph Edit Distance are discussed. Evaluation of the graphics item types through extensive testing on some students is described. We also outline the application of using interactive graphics over cell phones. All of the graphics item types used in this paper are developed by members of our research group.
Autostereoscopic Rendering of Multiple Light Fields
Authors: Escrivá M. , Blasco J. , Abad F. , Camahort E. , Vivó R. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractLight fields were introduced a decade ago as a new high‐dimensional graphics rendering model. However, they have not been thoroughly used because their applications are very specific and their storage requirements are too high. Recently, spatial imaging devices have been related to light fields. These devices allow several users to see three‐dimensional (3D) images without using glasses or other intrusive elements.This paper presents a light‐field model that can be rendered in an autostereoscopic spatial device. The model is viewpoint‐independent and supports continuous multiresolution, foveal rendering, and integrating multiple light fields and geometric models in the same scene.We also show that it is possible to examine interactively a scene composed of several light fields and geometric models. Visibility is taken care of by the algorithm. Our goal is to apply our models to 3D TV and spatial imaging.
Log‐density Deconvolution by Wavelet Thresholding
Authors: BIGOT JÉRÉMIE , BELLEGEM SÉBASTIEN VAN 
Published: September 2009

Abstract.  This paper proposes a new wavelet‐based method for deconvolving a density. The estimator combines the ideas of non‐linear wavelet thresholding with periodized Meyer wavelets and estimation by information projection. It is guaranteed to be in the class of density functions, in particular it is positive everywhere by construction. The asymptotic optimality of the estimator is established in terms of the rate of convergence of the Kullback–Leibler discrepancy over Besov classes. Finite sample properties are investigated in detail, and show the excellent empirical performance of the estimator, compared with other recently introduced estimators.
Risk factors for HIV transmission among heterosexual discordant couples in South India*
Authors: Kumarasamy N , Venkatesh KK , Srikrishnan AK , Prasad L , Balakrishnan P , Thamburaj E , Sharma J , Solomon S , Mayer K 
Published: September 2009

ObjectiveTo assess the risk factors associated with heterosexual HIV transmission among South Indian discordant couples enrolled in clinical care.MethodsA nested matched case–control study of serodiscordant couples in which the HIV‐infected partner (index case) was enrolled in care. Demographic and clinical characteristics, sexual behaviours, CD4 cell count and plasma HIV‐1 RNA loads were measured at enrolment and longitudinally over 12 months of follow‐up. The study included 70 cases who seroconverted during study follow‐up and 167 matched controls who remained persistently serodiscordant.ResultsThe incidence of HIV infection among the initially seronegative partners was 6.52 per 100 person‐years. Persistently discordant patients were more likely to have initiated highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) than patients in seroconverting relationships (62.9%vs. 42.9%) (P=0.001). Patients in seroconverting relationships had significantly higher plasma viral loads (PVLs) than patients in discordant relationships at enrolment, at 6 months and at 12 months (P<0.05). Patients in seroconverting relationships were less likely to use condoms with their primary partners than patients in discordant relationships (P<0.05). Patients in relationships that seroconverted between 6 and 12 months were diagnosed more often with genital Herpes simplex than patients in discordant relationships (P=0.001). In the univariate and multivariate logistic regression, the following variables were associated with seroconversion: PVL >100 000 [odds ratio (OR): 1.82; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1–2.8], non‐disclosure of HIV status (OR: 5.5; 95% CI: 4.3–6.2) and not using condoms (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 2.4–3.6).ConclusionsCouples‐based intervention models are crucial in preventing HIV transmission to seronegative spouses. Providing early treatment for sexually transmitted infections, HAART and enhancing condom use and disclosure could potentially decrease the risk of HIV transmission within Indian married couples.
Large particle hyaluronic acid for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy in HIV‐positive patients: 3‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Skeie L , Bugge H , Negaard A , Bergersen BM 
Published: September 2009

ObjectivesFacial lipoatrophy can be a stigmatizing side effect of antiretroviral (AVR) treatment for HIV‐infected patients. We sought to evaluate the long‐term efficacy and safety of a new formulation of hyaluronic acid that can be injected in larger amounts and into deeper skin layers during 3 years of follow‐up.MethodsTwenty patients received injections of Restylane SubQ™. Refill treatment was offered at 12 and 24 months. Treatment effects were evaluated using ultrasound, the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, visual analogue scale (VAS) and the Rosenberg self‐esteem scale.ResultsSeventeen patients remained at 36 months. Mean (± standard deviation) total cutaneous thickness increased from 6 ± 1 mm at baseline to 12 ± 1 mm (P<0.001) at 36 months. Response rate (total cutaneous thickness >10 mm) was 70%. Fifteen patients classified their facial appearance as very much or moderately improved. VAS increased from 39 ± 25 to 70 ± 20 (P<0.05) and higher self‐esteem scores were reported. Local swelling and tenderness after treatment was common. Persistent papules found in several patients after treatment were removed effectively with hyaluronidase injections. Three patients, treated only at baseline, still had higher total cutaneous thickness scores at 36 months.ConclusionsOur results indicate that a large particle hyaluronic acid formulation is a durable and well‐tolerated dermal filler for treating HIV‐positive patients with facial lipoatrophy.
Endothelial protein C receptor is expressed in rat cortical and hippocampal neurons and is necessary for protective effect of activated protein C at glutamate excitotoxicity
Authors: Gorbacheva Lyubov , Davidova Olga , Sokolova Elena , Ishiwata Shin’ichi , Pinelis Vsevolod , Strukova Svetlana , Reiser Georg 
Published: September 2009

AbstractActivated protein C (APC) is an anticoagulant and anti‐inflammatory factor that acts via endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR). Interestingly, APC also exhibits neuroprotective activities. In the present study, we demonstrate for the first time expression of EPCR, the receptor for APC, in rat cortical and hippocampal neurons. Moreover, exposing the neurons to glutamate excitotoxicity we studied the functional consequence of the expression of EPCR. By cytotoxicity assay we showed that EPCR was necessary for the APC‐mediated protective effect in both neuronal cell types in culture. The effect of APC was abrogated in the presence of blocking EPCR antibodies. Analysis of neuronal death by cell labelling with dyes which allow distinguishing living and dead cells confirmed that the anti‐apoptotic effect of APC was dependent on both EPCR and protease‐activated receptor‐1. Thus, we suggest that binding of APC to EPCR on neurons and subsequent activation of protease‐activated receptor‐1 by the complex of APC‐EPCR promotes survival mechanisms after exposure of neurons to damaging factors.
Oral bioavailability and brain penetration of (−)‐stepholidine, a tetrahydroprotoberberine agonist at dopamine D1 and antagonist at D2 receptors, in rats
Authors: Sun Yan , Dai Jieyu , Hu Zheyi , Du Feifei , Niu Wei , Wang Fengqing , Liu Fei , Jin Guozhang , Li Chuan 
Published: September 2009

Background and purpose:  (−)‐Stepholidine has high affinity for dopamine D1 and D2 receptors. The aims of the present study were to examine the oral bioavailability and brain penetration of (−)‐stepholidine and to gain understanding of mechanisms governing its transport across the enterohepatic barrier and the blood–brain barrier.Experimental approach:  The pharmacokinetics of (−)‐stepholidine was studied in rats and microdialysis was used to measure delivery to the brain. These studies were supported by biological measurement of unbound (−)‐stepholidine. Membrane permeability was assessed using Caco‐2 cell monolayers. Metabolite profiling of (−)‐stepholidine in rat bile and plasma was performed. Finally, in vitro metabolic stability and metabolite profile of (−)‐stepholidine were examined to compare species similarities and differences between rats and humans.Key results:  Orally administered (−)‐stepholidine was rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract; two plasma concentration peaks were seen, and the second peak might result from enterohepatic circulation. Due to extensive pre‐systemic metabolism, the oral bioavailability of (−)‐stepholidine was poor (<2%). However, the compound was extensively transported across the blood–brain barrier, demonstrating an AUC (area under concentration–time curve) ratio of brain : plasma of ∼0.7. (−)‐Stepholidine showed good membrane permeability that was unaffected by P‐glycoprotein and multidrug resistance‐associated protein 2. In vitro (−)‐stepholidine was metabolized predominantly by glucuronidation and sulphation in rats and humans, but oxidation of this substrate was very low.Conclusions and implications:  Although (−)‐stepholidine exhibits good brain penetration, future development efforts should aim at improving its oral bioavailability by protecting against pre‐systemic glucuronidation or sulphation. In this regard, prodrug approaches may be useful.
Differential activation of the HCO3‐conductance through the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator anion channel by genistein and forskolin in murine duodenum
Authors: Tuo Biguang , Wen Guorong , Seidler Ursula 
Published: September 2009

Background and purpose: Many cystic fibrosis (CF)‐associated mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) anion channels affect CFTR‐activated HCO3‐transport more than Cl‐transport. Targeting the CFTR HCO3‐conductance, if possible, may therefore be of major therapeutic benefit. In the present study, we examined the effects of genistein and forskolin on duodenal mucosal HCO3‐and Cl‐secretion.Experimental approach: Murine duodenal mucosal HCO3‐and Cl‐secretions were examinedin vitroin Ussing chambers by the pH stat and short circuit current (Isc) techniques.Key results: Genistein markedly stimulated duodenal HCO3‐secretion andIscin a dose‐dependent manner in CFTR wild‐type mice, but not in CFTR null mice. CFTRinh‐172, a highly specific CFTR inhibitor, inhibited genistein‐stimulated duodenal HCO3‐secretion andIscin wild‐type mice. Genistein induced 59% net HCO3‐increase and 123% netIscincrease over basal value, whereas forskolin, an activator of adenylate cyclase, induced 94% net HCO3‐increase and 507% netIscincrease, indicating that, compared with forskolin, genistein induced a relatively high HCO3‐/Iscratio. Further data showed that CFTR HCO3‐/Cl‐conductance ratio was 1.05 after genistein stimulation, whereas after forskolin stimulation, the CFTR HCO3‐/Cl‐conductance ratio was 0.27.Conclusions and implications: Genistein stimulates duodenal HCO3‐and Cl‐secretion through CFTR, and has a relatively high selectivity for the CFTR HCO3‐conductance, compared with forskolin. This may indicate the feasibility of selective targeting of the HCO3‐conductance of the CFTR channels.
Analysis of Implantable Defibrillator Longevity Under Clinical Circumstances: Implications for Device Selection
Authors: KNOPS PAUL , THEUNS DOMINIC A. M. J. , RES JAN C. J. , JORDAENS LUC 
Published: September 2009

Introduction: Information about implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) longevity is mostly calculated from measurements under ideal laboratory conditions. However, little information about longevity under clinical circumstances is available. This survey gives an overview on ICD service times and generator replacements in a cohort of consecutive ICD patients.
Methods: Indications for replacement were classified as a normal end‐of‐service (EOS), premature EOS, system malfunction, infection and device advisory, or recall actions. From the premature and normal EOS group, longevity from single‐chamber (SC), dual‐chamber (DC), and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT‐D), rate‐responsive (RR) settings, high output (HO) stimulation, and indication for ICD therapy was compared. Differences between brands were compared as well.
Results: In a total of 854 patients, 203 ICD replacements (165 patients) were recorded. Premature and normal EOS replacements consisted of 32 SC, 98 DC and 24 CRT‐D systems. Longevity was significantly longer in SC systems compared to DC and CRT‐D systems (54 ± 19 vs. 40 ± 17 and 42 ± 15 months; P = 0.008). Longevity between non‐RR (n = 143) and RR (n = 11) settings was not significantly different (43 ± 18 vs. 45 ± 13 months) as it also was not for HO versus non‐HO stimulation (43 ± 19 vs. 46 ± 17 months). Longevity of ICDs was not significantly different between primary and secondary prevention (42 ± 19 vs. 44 ± 18 months). The average longevity on account of a device‐based EOS message was 43 ± 18 months. Average longevity for Biotronik (BIO, n = 72) was 33 ± 10 months, for ELA Medical (ELA, n = 12) 44 ± 17 months, for Guidant (GDT, n = 36) 49 ± 12 months, for Medtronic (MDT, n = 29) 62 ± 22 months, and for St. Jude Medical (SJM, n = 5) 31 ± 9 months (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: SC ICD generators had a longer service time compared to DC and CRT‐D systems. No influence of indication for ICD therapy and HO stimulation on generator longevity was observed in this study. MDT ICDs had the longest service time.
Simplified Demonstration of Cavotricuspid Isthmus Block After Catheter Ablation in Patients After Mustard's Operation
Authors: BALAJI SESHADRI , STAJDUHAR KARL C. , ZARRAGA IGNATIUS G. , KRON JACK 
Published: September 2009

Background: The Mustard operation is a complex atrial rerouting performed in patients with transposition of the great arteries (TGA). Cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)‐dependent atrial flutter (AFL) is an important problem in these patients. While catheter ablation (CA) is successful, three‐dimensional (3D) mapping is necessary to prove block at the CTI. 3D mapping, however, requires baffle puncture. We tested a simplified concept to prove isthmus block after CA for AFL in Mustard patients.
Methods: During electrophysiology study, catheters were placed in the high and low systemic venous atrium (HSVA and LSVA) and in the low pulmonary venous atrium (LPVA). LPVA and then LSVA were paced while recording in the HSVA and the alternate site. While pacing from one low site, the time taken to activate the other low site and the HSVA was compared before and after successful ablation.
Results: Three patients with Mustard operation and AFL underwent successful CA. Involvement of the CTI in AFL was proved by entrainment mapping. AFL was terminated during ablation and no longer inducible after ablation in all. LSVA pacing showed LPVA activation preceded HSVA activation preablation and activation pattern reversal after ablation. Likewise, LPVA pacing showed LSVA activation preceding HSVA preablation with reversal after ablation.
Conclusion: This study provides a simple method to demonstrate bidirectional block at the CTI in patients with CTI‐based AFL after Mustard operation for TGA.
Disruption of the reproductive behaviour of Scaphoideus titanus by playback of vibrational signals
Authors: Mazzoni Valerio , Lucchi Andrea , Čokl Andrej , Prešern Janez , Virant‐Doberlet Meta 
Published: September 2009

Abstract Scaphoideus titanus Ball (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) is the vector of the grapevine disease Flavescence dorée. In S. titanus the male–female duet (MFD), based on species‐specific vibrational signals, is essential for successful copulation. The female reply within a duet is a single pulse that is coupled with the male pulse with constant latency. It has been shown that a rival male can interrupt an existing duet by emitting disruptive noise signals. We tested whether the reproductive behaviour of S. titanus can be disrupted by the playback of intra‐specific and synthesized vibrational signals. Tested males responded to the playback of an MFD with typical rivalry behaviour. Such behaviour includes silent search for a duetting female (satellite behaviour) and/or emission of disruptive signals. These signals were emitted either after exchange of male–female pulses or after two male pulses coupled by latency corresponding to the female response window. The onset of male disruptive signals overlapped with a female pulse. We suggest that the intruder’s disruptive signals can mask the female reply and confuse courting males. Playback of disruptive vibrational signals reduced the level of male calling and interrupted an established MFD that consequently resulted in a significantly reduced number of copulations. These results indicate that the vibrational communication channel is open to interference either from abiotic environmental noise or from signals produced by sexual competitors or heterospecifics. The present study also suggests that a detailed understanding of leafhopper behaviour is essential for trying new approaches in the development of more environmentally friendly control practices.
Oncogenic BRAF and the tumor suppressor IGFBP7 in the genesis of atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations
Authors: Emley Andrew , Yang Shi , Wajapeyee Narendra , Green Michael R , Mahalingam Meera 
Published: September 2009

Rare reports indicate that the frequency of BRAFV600E mutations is high in atypical Spitz nevi. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the utility of the RAF/RAS mutational status as a diagnostic adjunct in lesions with histologic features that deviate from a typical Spitz nevus and, to examine expression of Insulin growth factor binding protein 7 (IGFBP7), a tumor suppressor acting through autocrine/paracrine pathways to inhibit BRAF‐MEK‐ERK signaling, in the same. Genomic DNA for genotyping was isolated from 6 regular Spitz nevi and 14 atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations (including 1 melanoma with spitzoid histomorphology). NRAS1, NRAS2 and KRAS were analyzed, in addition to BRAFV600E. A mutation in BRAFV600E was noted in only one case–that of a regular Spitz nevus. IGFBP7 expression appeared to be maintained in this case, but was absent in 7/17 cases, which included 5 atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations. Lack of expression of IGFBP7 in atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations with histologically concerning features but BRAF‐WT indicates that the evolutionary path in atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations is genetically distinct from that of IGFBP7‐negative BRAF‐positive melanoma. From an oncogenic BRAF perspective, our findings suggest that the majority of ‘atypical’ spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations are probably no different from conventional Spitz nevi.Emley A, Yang S, Wajapeyee N, Green MR, Mahalingam M. Oncogenic BRAF and the tumor suppressor IGFBP7 in the genesis of atypical spitzoid nevomelanocytic proliferations.
Expression of survivin and human telomerase reverse transcriptase in extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Shan Shi‐Jun , Zhang Naiqin , Geng Shi‐Ling , Zhou Zhihai , Chen Xu , Nie Tingfen , Guo Zhe , Li Changping , Liu Quanzhong , Guo Ying , Wei Huachen , Chen Hong‐Duo 
Published: September 2009

Background: Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a rare neoplasm of apocrine gland‐bearing skin. It is known that over‐expression of survivin and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) correlates with malignancies. We investigated the expression of hTERT and survivin by Paget's cells and their role in the tissue invasion and recurrence of EMPD. Method: Forty‐two patients were enrolled into the study. Expression of survivin and hTERT were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques. The variables including the expression level of survivin and hTERT, gender, age, lesion location, invasion level and number of surgeries were statistically analyzed using Fisher's exact test. Results: Survivin was positively stained in 18 of 22 cases (81.8%), and hTERT in 18 of 29 cases (62.1%). Significantly higher level of survivin expression was detected in patients with multiple surgeries than those with single one (p = 0.0458). Expression of hTERT was significantly higher in the patients with micro‐invasive and invasive lesions than those with non‐invasive lesions (p = 0.0478). Conclusions: Over‐expression of survivin and hTERT correlated strongly with recurrence and local invasion of EMPD lesions. EMPD has male gender predominance in Oriental population.Shan S‐J, Zhang N, Geng S‐L, Zhou Z, Chen X, Nie T, Guo Z, Li C, Liu Q, Guo Y, Wei H, Chen H‐D. Expression of survivin and human telomerase reverse transcriptase in extramammary Paget's disease.
Hydrological connectivity in coastal inland systems: lessons from a Neotropical fish metacommunity
Authors: De Macedo‐Soares P. H. M. , Petry A. C. , Farjalla V. F. , Caramaschi E. P. 
Published: September 2009

de Macedo‐Soares PHM, Petry AC, Farjalla VF, Caramaschi EP. Hydrological connectivity in coastal inland systems: lessons from a Neotropical fish metacommunity. Ecology of Freshwater Fish 2010: 19: 7–18. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/SAbstract –  We assessed the influence of hydrological connectivity in structuring fish communities through seasonal samplings of environmental variables and fishes in a coastal lagoon and associated pools in the Restinga de Jurubatiba National Park, Brazil. Community structure attributes such as species richness, numerical density and biomass, Shannon–Wiener diversity index and evenness were compared between periods of the lowest and highest hydrological connectivity, while the environmental gradient and fish zonation were explored through ordination techniques. The greater hydrological connectivity established in the rainy season promoted the homogenisation of most environmental variables and fish species, which differed markedly from the arrangement observed in the dry season. Despite variation in fish species composition, community attributes showed non‐significant differences between the dry and rainy seasons. The patterns of composition and numerical density in pools were strongly influenced by local factors, especially salinity, dissolved oxygen, total phosphorous concentration and water colour in the dry season, in addition to total nitrogen concentration and depth in the rainy season. Comparable to the role played by flood pulses in river‐floodplain systems, the hydrological connectivity in these tropical coastal waterbodies seems to strongly influence fish community structure, and, therefore to determine regional biodiversity.