bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Transients in natural ventilation — A time-periodically-varying source
Authors: Bolster Diogo , Caulfield CP 
Published: April 2008

We examine the transient behaviour of a naturally ventilated space with a time-varying heat source. The flow is modelled using the `emptying filling box' model developed by Linden et al.1 with an isolated heat source, modelled as a plume. Scaled laboratory experiments were conducted in a water bath using a brine solution to generate density differences. The room is connected to the exterior via high and low level openings. A natural ventilation flow leads to a two-layer flow with warm fluid in the upper layer and ambient fluid in the lower `occupied' layer. During the flow's transient evolution, the upper layer has a non-uniform stratification within it, which we study using a simple numerical model. The time-varying stratification leads to time-varying flow rates through the space. We identify four important flow rates and illustrate which of these dominate based on the strength and oscillation period of the thermal source. Practical applications: Most of the current models for natural ventilation assume a steady state and constant heat loads. Many real heat sources are not constant in time and vary in some quasi-periodic manner. In this work, we show that there are four characteristic flow rates associated with such heat sources. Depending on the strength and period of the source these can vary significantly. In this paper, we show how to calculate these flow rates and select which one should be chosen from a design perspective.
Case studies of building envelope leakage measurement using an air-handler fan pressurisation approach
Authors: Jeong J-W , Firrantello J , Bahnfleth WP , Freihaut JD , Musser A 
Published: April 2008

The air-handler fan pressurisation method can be a practical way to estimate envelope leakage in large scale or tall buildings where a conventional blower door test is not practical. Standards such as CGSB 149.15 describe desirable test conditions and protocols for such tests. However, because of the variety of building air handling system constructions and site conditions, and limited time and budget available for testing, one may not be able to perform the test under the recommended standard conditions, especially when the system configuration and operation at the site are unfavourable. This study describes air-handler fan pressurisation tests performed for two existing buildings having problematic site conditions affected the ability to perform standard test protocols. Envelope leakage was measured with and without sealing of elevator shafts. Both buildings were found to have standard leakage flow rates that exceed typical levels, with or without elevator shaft leakage. This paper provides some insight into what should be done to ensure a successful air-handler fan pressurisation test by describing what was done to deal with undesirable site conditions which could occur in many buildings. Practical applications: This study shows that air-handler fan pressurisation tests can be performed even in problematic buildings by improving test conditions at the site by adjusting the system operation and by utilising site specific measurement techniques and instrumentation. The applicability of recently developed fan airflow and outdoor intake flow measuring sensors to the air-handler fan pressurisation test is also discussed. However, it also shows that perfect implementation of standard air-handler fan pressurisation test procedure may be difficult in real buildings for a reasonable cost. Published case studies providing methods for solving various practical problems at the test site are very rare. This paper is useful for engineers who are seeking practical information about the air-handler fan pressurisation.
Epistemic evaluation of policy influence on workplace indoor air quality of Hong Kong in 1996—2005
Authors: Mui KW , Wong LT , Hui PS , Law KY 
Published: April 2008

Long-term measurement results of indoor air quality (IAQ) over a general community can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation measures for IAQ improvement of premises. However, this approach requires considerable measurement efforts and thus the complete data sets are not available in many circumstances. This study proposes an epistemic approach in estimating the probable influences of an IAQ policy for Hong Kong offices, using the regional IAQ measurement databases of offices in 1996, 1998—2001 and 2004—2005. After the implementation of the IAQ policy in 1997—1999, measurement results of IAQ in offices were collected and were used to quantify the IAQ improvement for Hong Kong offices. It is noted that IAQ dissatisfaction due to air pollutants predominated by indoor emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) might need additional attentions for an effective IAQ improvement programme. Practical application: This study provides updated information on the forecasts of IAQ in air-conditioned offices of Hong Kong due to the influence of the IAQ policy implemented in 1997—1999. It is a useful source of reference for policymakers and decision makers in evaluating an indoor air pollution control policy for air-conditioned offices.
Stem-cell ecology and stem cells in motion
Authors: Papayannopoulou Thalia , Scadden David T. 
Published: April 2008

Abstract
This review highlights major scientific developments over the past 50 years or so in concepts related to stem-cell ecology and to stem cells in motion. Many thorough and eloquent reviews have been presented in the last 5 years updating progress in these issues. Some paradigms have been challenged, others validated, or new ones brought to light. In the present review, we will confine our remarks to the historical development of progress. In doing so, we will refrain from a detailed analysis of controversial data, emphasizing instead widely accepted views and some challenging novel ones.
Vasodilative effects of prostaglandin E1 derivate on arteries of nerve roots in a canine model of a chronically compressed cauda equina
Authors: Shirasaka Masayoshi , Takayama Bunji , Sekiguchi Miho , Konno Shin-ichi , Kikuchi Shin-ichi 
Published: April 2008

Abstract

Background
Reduction of blood flow is important in the induction of neurogenic intermittent claudication (NIC) in lumbar spinal canal stenosis. PGE1 improves the mean walking distance in patients with NIC type cauda equina compression. PGE1 derivate might be effective in dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow in nerve roots with chronically compressed cauda equina. The aim of this study was to assess whether PGE1 derivate has vasodilatory effects on both arteries and veins in a canine model of chronic cauda equina compression.

Methods
Fourteen dogs were used in this study. A plastic balloon inflated to 10 mmHg was placed under the lamina of the 7th lumbar vertebra for 1 week. OP-1206-cyclodextrin clathrate (OP-1206-CD: prostaglandin E1 derivate) was administered orally. The blood vessels of the second or third sacral nerve root were identified using a specially designed surgical microscope equipped with a video camera. The diameter of the blood vessels was measured on video-recordings every 15 minutes until 90 minutes after the administration of the PGE1 derivate.

Results
We observed seven arteries and seven veins. The diameter and blood flow of the arteries was significantly increased compared with the veins at both 60 and 75 minutes after administration of the PGE1 derivate (p < 0.05). Blood flow velocity did not change over 90 minutes in either the arteries or veins.

Discussion
The PGE1 derivate improved blood flow in the arteries but did not induce blood stasis in the veins. Our results suggest that the PGE1 derivate might be a potential therapeutic agent, as it improved blood flow in the nerve roots in a canine model of chronic cauda equina compression.
Connective tissue metabolism in chikungunya patients
Authors: Lokireddy Sudarsanareddy , Vemula Sarojamma , Vadde Ramakrishna 
Published: April 2008

Abstract

Background
Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is a viral disease transmitted to humans by the bite of Chikungunya virus (CHIK virus) infected Aedes mosquitoes. CHIK virus is a member of the Alphavirus genus of the family Togaviridae. Previous reports have indicated that infection with CHIK virus produces an acute arthritis in human hosts by large area of necrosis and collagenosis or fibrosis.

Results
We carried out the present study to determine the effect of chikungunya on the collagen and connective tissue metabolism in 75 chikungunya-affected people. First, we screened for mucopolysaccharides in urine by Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Bromide (CTAB) test. Appearance of heavy precipitate indicates the presence of higher levels of mucopolysaccharides and later quantified by DMB dye method. The urinary mucopolysaccharide in CHIK patients was 342 ± 45 mg/l compared to healthy controls (45 ± 5.6 mg/l). The collagen building blocks, proline and hydroxyproline were also measured in CHIK patients and observed higher excretion compared to healthy controls. Urinary excretions hydroxyproline was greater than the proline levels.

Conclusion
These results indicate that CHIK virus infection affects and damage the cartilage and connective metabolism and releases the degraded products from the tissue and responsible for increasing the levels of proline, hydroxyproline and mucopolysaccharides in CHIK affected patients.
Adenylate cycalse toxin ofBordetella pertussisinhibits TLR-induced IRF-1 and IRF-8 activation and IL-12 production and enhances IL-10 through MAPK activation in dendritic cells
Authors: Hickey Fionnuala B , Brereton Corinna F , Mills Kingston H G 
Published: April 2008

AbstractAdenylate cyclase toxin (CyaA) of Bordetella pertussis binds to CD11b/CD18 on macrophages and dendritic cells (DC) and confers virulence to the bacteria by subverting innate immune responses of the host. We have previously demonstrated that CyaA promotes the induction of IL-10-secreting regulatory T cells in vivo by modulating DC activation. Here, we examine the mechanism of immune subversion, specifically, the modulation of TLR signaling pathways in DC. We found that CyaA synergized with LPS to induce IL-10 mRNA and protein expression in DC but significantly inhibited IL-12p70 production. CyaA enhanced LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and ERK in DC, and inhibitors of p38 MAPK, MEK, or NF-κB suppressed IL-10 production in response to LPS and CyaA. However, inhibition of p38 MAPK, MEK, and NF-κB did not reverse the inhibitory effect of CyaA on TLR agonist-induced IL-12 production. Furthermore, CyaA suppression of IL-12 was independent of IL-10. In contrast, CyaA suppressed LPS- and IFN-γ-induced IFN-regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) and IRF-8 expression in DC. The modulatory effects of CyaA were dependent on adenylate cyclase activity and induction of intracellular cAMP, as an enzyme-inactive mutant of CyaA failed to modulate TLR-induced signaling in DC, whereas the effects of the wild-type toxin were mimicked by stimulation of the DC with PGE2. Our findings demonstrate that CyaA modulates TLR agonist-induced IL-10 and IL-12p70 production in DC by, respectively, enhancing MAPK phosphorylation and inhibiting IRF-1 and IRF-8 expression and that this is mediated by elevation of intercellular cAMP concentrations.
Enteral glutamine: a novel mediator of PPARγ in the postischemic gut
Authors: Ban Kechen , Kozar Rosemary A 
Published: April 2008

AbstractEarly enteral nutrition supplemented with glutamine, arginine, omega-3 fatty acids, and nucleotides has been shown to decrease infection complications in critically injured patients. Concern has been raised, however, that under conditions of hyperinflammation, these diets may be injurious through the induction of inducible NO synthase by enteral arginine. In a rodent model of gut ischemia/reperfusion, inflammation and injury are intensified by enteral arginine and abrogated by glutamine. These findings correlate with the degree of metabolic stress imposed upon the gut by hypoperfusion. Glutamine is metabolized by the gut and therefore, can contribute back energy in the form of ATP, whereas arginine is a nonmetabolizable nutrient, using but not contributing energy. Recent data suggest that one of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the gut-protective effects of enteral glutamine is the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ. This anti-inflammatory transcription factor belongs to the family of nuclear receptors, plays a key role in adipocyte development and glucose homeostasis, and has been recognized as an endogenous regulator of intestinal inflammation. Preliminary clinical studies support the use of enteral glutamine in patients with gut hypoperfusion.
Phlebotomine salivas inhibit immune inflammation-induced neutrophil migration via an autocrine DC-derived PGE2/IL-10 sequential pathway
Authors: Carregaro Vanessa , Valenzuela Jesus G , Cunha Thiago M , Verri Waldiceu A , Grespan Renata , Matsumura Graziela , Ribeiro José M C , Elnaiem Dia-Eldin , Silva João S , Cunha Fernando Q 
Published: April 2008

AbstractIn the present study, we investigated whether saliva from Phlebotomus papatasi and Phlebotomus duboscqi inhibited antigen-induced neutrophil migration and the mechanisms involved in these effects. The pretreatment of immunized mice with salivary gland extracts (SGE) of both phlebotomines inhibited OVA challenge-induced neutrophil migration and release of the neutrophil chemotactic mediators, MIP-1α, TNF-α, and leukotriene B4 (LTB4). Furthermore, SGE treatment enhanced the production of anti-inflammatory mediators, IL-10 and PGE2. SGE treatments failed to inhibit neutrophil migration and MIP-1α and LTB4 production in IL-10−/− mice, also failing in mice treated with nonselective (indomethacin) or selective (rofecoxibe) cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. COX inhibition resulted in diminished SGE-induced IL-10 production, and PGE2 release triggered by SGE remained increased in IL-10−/− mice, suggesting that prostanoids are acting through an IL-10-dependent mechanism. SGE treatments in vivo reduced the OVA-induced lymphoproliferation of spleen-derived cells. Further, the in vitro incubation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DC) with SGE inhibited the proliferation of CD4+T cells from OVA-immunized mice, which was reversed by indomethacin and anti-IL-10 antibody treatments. Supporting these results, SGE induced the production of PGE2 and IL-10 by DC, which were blocked by COX inhibition. These effects were associated with the reduction of DC-membrane expression of MHC-II and CD86 by SGE treatment. Altogether, the results showed that Phlebotomine saliva inhibits immune inflammation-induced neutrophil migration by an autocrine DC sequential production of PGE2/IL-10, suggesting that the saliva constituents might be promising therapeutic molecules to target immune inflammatory diseases.
Priming of neutrophil oxidative burst in diabetes requires preassembly of the NADPH oxidase
Authors: Omori Kazuhiro , Ohira Taisuke , Uchida Yushi , Ayilavarapu Srinivas , Batista Eraldo L , Yagi Motohiko , Iwata Tomoyuki , Liu Hongsheng , Hasturk Hatice , Kantarci Alpdogan , Van Dyke Thomas E 
Published: April 2008

AbstractHyperglycemia associated with diabetes mellitus results in the priming of neutrophils leading to oxidative stress that is, in part, responsible for diabetic complications. p47phox, a NADPH oxidase cytosolic subunit, is a key protein in the assembly of the NADPH oxidase leading to superoxide generation. Little is known about the priming mechanism of oxidative pathways in neutrophils of people with diabetes. In this study, the kinetics of p47phox activation was investigated by comparing neutrophils from diabetic and healthy subjects, and the mechanism of hyperglycemia-induced changes was studied by using neutrophil-like HL-60 cells as a model. In resting neutrophils from diabetic subjects, p47phox prematurely translocates to the cell membrane and preassembles with p22phox, a NADPH oxidase membrane subunit. This premature p47phox translocation and preassembly with p22phox were also observed in HL-60 cells cultured with high glucose (HG; 25 mM) and with the specific ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), S100B. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2, but not p38 MAPK, was the primary signaling pathway, as evidenced by PD98059 suppressing the translocation of p47phox in HL-60 cells incubated with HG and S100B. HL-60 cells cultured in HG and S100B exhibited a 1.8-fold increase in fMLP-induced superoxide generation compared with those cultured in normal glucose (5.5 mM). These data suggest that HG and increased AGE prime neutrophils and increase oxidative stress inducing the translocation of p47phox to the cell membrane and preassembly with p22phox by stimulating a RAGE-ERK1/2 pathway.
EPIC: Phase III Trial of Cetuximab Plus Irinotecan After Fluoropyrimidine and Oxaliplatin Failure in Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sobrero Alberto F. , Maurel Joan , Fehrenbacher Louis , Scheithauer Werner , Abubakr Yousif A. , Lutz Manfred P. , Vega-Villegas M. Eugenia , Eng Cathy , Steinhauer Ernst U. , Prausova Jana , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Borg Christophe , Middleton Gary , Kröning Hendrik , Luppi Gabriele , Kisker Oliver , Zubel Angela , Langer Christiane , Kopit Justin , Burris Howard A. 
Published: April 2008

Purpose To determine whether adding cetuximab to irinotecan prolongs survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) previously treated with fluoropyrimidine and oxaliplatin. Patients and Methods This multicenter, open-label, phase III study randomly assigned 1,298 patients with epidermal growth factor receptor–expressing mCRC who had experienced first-line fluoropyrimidine and oxaliplatin treatment failure to cetuximab (400 mg/m2 day 1 followed by 250 mg/m2 weekly) plus irinotecan (350 mg/m2 every 3 weeks) or irinotecan alone. Primary end point was overall survival (OS); secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS), response rate (RR), and quality of life (QOL). Results Median OS was comparable between treatments: 10.7 months (95% CI, 9.6 to 11.3) with cetuximab/irinotecan and 10.0 months (95% CI, 9.1 to 11.3) with irinotecan alone (hazard ratio [HR], 0.975; 95% CI, 0.854 to 1.114; P = .71). This lack of difference may have been due to post-trial therapy: 46.9% of patients assigned to irinotecan eventually received cetuximab (87.2% of those who did, received it with irinotecan). Cetuximab added to irinotecan significantly improved PFS (median, 4.0 v 2.6 months; HR, 0.692; 95% CI, 0.617 to 0.776; P ≤ .0001) and RR (16.4% v 4.2%; P < .0001), and resulted in significantly better scores in the QOL analysis of global health status (P = .047). Cetuximab did not exacerbate toxicity, except for acneform rash, diarrhea, hypomagnesemia, and associated electrolyte imbalances. Neutropenia was the most common severe toxicity across treatment arms. Conclusion Cetuximab and irinotecan improved PFS and RR, and resulted in better QOL versus irinotecan alone. OS was similar between study groups, possibly influenced by the large number of patients in the irinotecan arm who received cetuximab and irinotecan poststudy.
Toremifene Improves Lipid Profiles in Men Receiving Androgen-Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Interim Analysis of a Multicenter Phase III Study
Authors: Smith Matthew R. , Malkowicz S. Bruce , Chu Franklin , Forrest John , Sieber Paul , Barnette K. Gary , Rodriquez Domingo , Steiner Mitchell S. 
Published: April 2008

Purpose Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is associated with greater risk of incident coronary heart disease and hospital admission for myocardial infarction; treatment-related increases in serum lipids may contribute to greater cardiovascular disease risk. We evaluated the effects of toremifene, a selective estrogen-receptor modulator, on fasting serum lipid levels in men receiving ADT for prostate cancer. Patients and Methods In an ongoing, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase III fracture-prevention study, 1,389 men receiving ADT for prostate cancer were randomly assigned to receive toremifene (80 mg/d) or placebo. In this interim analysis of 188 patients, changes in fasting serum lipids from baseline to month 12 were compared between the placebo and toremifene groups. Results Changes in serum lipids differed significantly between the groups. Mean (± SE) total cholesterol decreased by 1.0% ± 1.7% from baseline to month 12 in the placebo group and decreased by 8.1% ± 1.4% in the toremifene group (P = .001 for between group comparison). Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol increased by 0.8% ± 2.5% in the placebo group and decreased by 8.2% ± 2.5% in the toremifene group (P = .003). In contrast, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol decreased by 4.9% ± 1.2% in the placebo group and increased by 0.5% ± 2.2% in the toremifene group (P = .018). Triglycerides increased by 6.9% ± 4.2% in the placebo group and decreased by 13.2% ± 3.6% in the toremifene group (P = .003). Conclusion Toremifene significantly decreased total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increased HDL cholesterol in men receiving ADT for prostate cancer.
Phase I Study of a Novel Capecitabine Schedule Based on the Norton-Simon Mathematical Model in Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Traina Tiffany A. , Theodoulou Maria , Feigin Kimberly , Patil Sujata , Tan K. Lee , Edwards Charles , Dugan Ute , Norton Larry , Hudis Clifford 
Published: April 2008

Purpose This study was conducted to determine, in patients with advanced-stage breast cancer, the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of capecitabine administered orally for 7 days followed by a 7-day rest (7/7), a schedule based on a mathematical method for the optimization of anticancer drug scheduling. Patients and Methods Eligible patients had measurable, metastatic breast cancer. There was no limit to number of prior treatments. A standard, three-patients-per-cohort dose-escalation scheme used flat-dose capecitabine beginning at 1,500 mg orally twice daily (bid) on a 7/7 schedule. Each cohort was monitored for 28 days before escalation to the next cohort to assess for delayed toxicity. Response was evaluated radiographically every 12 weeks; toxicity was assessed every 2 weeks. Results Twenty-one patients were treated on study. The most frequently reported treatment-related grade 2/3 adverse events were hand-foot syndrome (29%), leukopenia/neutropenia (24%), and fatigue (19%). Grade 3 toxicity was transient and easily managed. Three patients experienced grade 3 hand-foot syndrome; one of these patients had grade 3 diarrhea. There were no grade 4 events. The MTD of capecitabine 7/7 is 2,000 mg twice daily. Conclusion As predicted by mathematical modeling, capecitabine dosing for 7 days followed by a 7-day rest is well tolerated. Efficacy of this schedule is being determined in a phase II clinical trial in patients with advanced breast cancer.