Asian Science Citation Index

Psychiatric Residents' Self-Assessment of Teaching Knowledge and Skills Following a Brief "Psychiatric Residents-as-Teachers" Course: A Pilot Study

2010-06-01

OBJECTIVE: Resident physicians have an important role in medical student teaching. There has been limited curriculum development in this area for general psychiatric residents. A 4-hour workshop for PGY-2 psychiatric residents was designed and implemented to improve residents’ self-assessment of their knowledge of the medical student curriculum and core teaching skills. METHODS: Residents completed pre- and postcourse self-assessments of their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values about teaching. Descriptive statistics were obtained on pre- and postcourse data and were analyzed using t tests assuming unequal variance. RESULTS: Following course participation, there was statistically significant improvement in residents’ self-assessment of their knowledge of the medical student curriculum (p≤0.001), their self-assessment regarding perception of peers’ view of their teaching ability (p≤0.02), and their perceived knowledge of various teaching methods (p≤0.02). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that a brief workshop may enhance psychiatric residents’ self-assessment of teaching knowledge and skills.

Effect of contamination of pasture with military explosives on grazing behaviour in shee

2011-03-01

Ungulates grazing in military training areas may be exposed to non-combusted fragments of various explosives, among which 2-methyl-1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNT) and 1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocane (HMX) are two of the most common. This study investigated if sheep react to their pastures being contaminated with TNT or HMX. The experiment was conducted in fenced-in study areas on grass-dominated pasture. The eight sheep studied did not differentiate between clean pasture and contaminated pasture when choosing freely between plots containing TNT, HMX or no contamination. The results indicate that sheep grazing military training areas are unlikely to have behavioural responses reducing time spent grazing sites where TNT or HMX are present as fragments in the field layer.

Cleaning heavy metal contaminated soil with soluble humic substances instead of synthetic polycarboxylic acids

2011-06-01

Soils contaminated with heavy metals constitute a serious and widespread ecological problem but to clean such soils requires strong chemicals such as polycarboxylates; frequently ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and nitrilotriacetic acid are used. However, these compounds are synthetic and toxic and their replacement by natural products such as soluble humic substances as washing agents for cleaning heavy metal polluted soils would be environmentally very attractive. In fact, such a replacement seems possible at least on cadmium and copper contaminated soil inasmuch as humic substances, depending on the concentration, were found to extract up to 45% and 54% of total cadmium and copper from a highly contaminated calcareous soil. Even though higher amounts of the two metals were extracted by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and nitrilotriacetic acid, the humic substances undoubtedly extracted the most reactive fractions. However, the humic substances extracted only 4% of total lead and 17% of total nickel, whereas the percentages for the synthetic polycarboxylates were about 30% for nickel and lead. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and nitrilotriacetic acid may therefore be replaced by humic substances as washing agents for cadmium, copper and maybe nickel contaminated soils, whereas they seem unsuited for cleaning lead contaminated soils, at least if the soils are as calcareous as the soil tested.

Marginal stability analysis on salt-fingers convection with parabolic temperature and salinity profiles

2009-03-01

This paper explores the influence of parabolic profiles of temperature and salinity, as might arise due to local evaporation or warming disturbance, on the marginal stability problem in a salt-fingering regime. From the results of this article, the governing equations obtained for stationary onset of salt-fingers convection of a gravity gradient due to local disturbance in parabolic temperature and salinity profiles are similar to those obtained by the small-gap Taylor–Couette problem. Detailed relationships between the effective Rayleigh number (), the critical wave number (a_c) and the couple disturbed local depth under the stationary stability analysis are also shown in this work. From the result of overstability analysis, it shows that oscillatory motion of salt-fingers convection will be triggered under a certain definite characteristic frequency. In overstability, it provoke restoring forces so strong as to overshoot the corresponding position on the other side of equilibrium for case of coupled disturbance in the upper layer of ocean.

Therapeutic effect of artemisinin on lupus nephritis mice and its mechanisms

2010-12-01

In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of artemisinin (Art) on lupus nephritis mice and its mechanisms by comparing the differences between lupus nephritis (LN) mice given Art and control mice in molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, and histopathology. The results showed that Art could remarkably relieve the symptoms, decrease the level of urine protein/24 h, and alleviate pathological renal lesions. The differences among the four groups in the expression of the NF-Bp65 protein, nuclear factor-B (NF-B) activity, and the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) mRNA in renal tissue suggested that Art can lower the serum levels of tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and inhibit the expression of the NF-Bp65 protein and NF-B and TGF-β1 mRNA in the renal tissues of LN mice. These results proved that it is reliable and effective to use Art to treat LN mice, and its therapeutic mechanisms should closely be related to the fact that Art can obviously decrease the serum levels of TNF- and IL-6 and down-regulate the expression of the NF-Bp65 protein and NF-B and TGF-β1 mRNA in renal tissues.

Regulation of material properties in electrospun scaffolds: Role of cross-linking and fiber tertiary structure

2009-01-01

We cross-linked scaffolds of electrospun collagen to varying degrees with glutaraldehyde using an ethanol-based solvent system and subsequently defined how the percentage of cross-linking impacts bulk and microscale material properties and fiber structure. At hydration, electrospun fibers underwent coiling; the extent of coiling was proportional to the percentage of cross-linking introduced into the samples and was largely suppressed as cross-linking approached saturation. These data suggest that electrospun collagen fibers are not deposited in a minimal energy state; fiber coiling may reflect a molecular reorganization. This result has functional/structural implications for protein-based electrospun scaffolds. Changes in fiber topology that develop during post-electrospinning processing may alter monomer organization, mask or unmask receptor binding sites, and/or change the biological properties of these nanomaterials. Hydrated scaffolds were mounted into a custom stretching device installed on a microscope stage and photographed after incremental changes in strain. Changes in fiber alignment were measured using the two-dimensional fast Fourier transform method. Fibers in all scaffolds underwent alignment in response to strain; however, the rate and extent of alignment that could be achieved varied as a function of cross-linking. We propose four distinct modes of scaffold response to strain: fiber uncoiling, fiber reorientation, fiber elongation and interfiber sliding. We conclude that bulk material properties and local microscale architecture must be simultaneously considered to optimize the performance of electrospun scaffolds.

Peer substance involvement modifies genetic influences on regular substance involvement in young women

2010-10-01

Aims Peer substance involvement (PSI) is a robust correlate of adolescent substance use. A small number of genetically informative studies suggest that shared genetic and environmental factors contribute to this association. We examine mechanisms by which PSI influences the etiology of regular substance involvement (RSI), particularly in women. Design Population-based cohort study of twin women from the US Midwest. Participants 2176 twin women. Measurements To examine the relationship between self-reported PSI during adolescence and a composite RSI representing regular tobacco, alcohol and cannabis use during young adulthood, using genetically informative correlation, moderation and joint correlation-moderation models. Findings There was evidence for a significant additive genetic X environment interaction. PSI was moderately heritable (h²=0.25). Genetic, shared and non-shared influences on RSI overlapped with influences on PSI (genetic correlation of 0.43). Even after controlling for these shared genetic influences, RSI was more heritable in those reporting greater PSI. Conclusions While young women may select peers based on certain dispositional traits (e.g. permissiveness towards substance use), the social milieu constructed by PSI does modify the architecture of increased RSI in those individuals with increasing levels of PSI being associated with stronger expression of heritable influences.

Prevalence, frequency, and initiation of hookah tobacco smoking among first-year female college students: A one-year longitudinal study

2012-02-01

Hookah tobacco smoking has become increasingly prevalent among college students, but little is known about frequency of use or patterns of use over time, including during the transition to college. The goals of this longitudinal cohort study were to assess the: (a) lifetime prevalence, (b) current prevalence, (c) frequency of use, and (d) pattern of initiation of hookah tobacco smoking among female students during the first year of college. First-year female college students (N = 483) at a large private university in upstate New York completed 13 monthly online surveys about their hookah tobacco use from August 2009 to August 2010. Lifetime prevalence of hookah use increased from 29% at college entry to 45% at one-year follow-up. The highest rates of hookah initiation occurred in the first two months of students' first semester of college. Current (past 30 days) hookah use ranged from 5% to 13% during the year after college entry. On average, hookah users reported smoking hookah two days per month. Hookah tobacco use is common among female college students. The transition to college is a vulnerable time for hookah initiation. Preventive efforts should begin in high school and continue through college, with a focus on students' first few months on campus.

Mental health v. mental illness: COMMENTARY ON ... ETHICS AND ECONOMICS

2010-06-01

This commentary focuses principally on the semantics of using the term ‘mental health’ rather than ‘mental illness’ and the effect this has in creating a paradigm shift in psychiatry in relation to other medical specialties. The consequences, intended or unintended, are demonstrated and the relationship between ethics and economics in mental health is discussed. The view that economic evaluation is methodologically unsound in ‘mental health’, that it is a special case because of its complexity, does not acknowledge the significant paradigm shift that has occurred. Casual acceptance of the term ‘mental health’ in a serious economic debate about resources for people with mental illnesses is worrying and further diminishes the medical specialty of psychiatry that deals with mental diseases.

Quasi-biennial oscillation signals in outgoing long-wave radiation of the equator

2010-11-01

In the present paper, the authors use wavelet transform technique to study time-series of outgoing long-wave radiation (OLR) anomaly at the equator during 1979-2005. The results show that quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) signals exist in the OLR variation and the QBO cycle has remarkable temporal variability in its amplitude and phase. The periodic length of the QBO fluctuation is about 2.2-year before 1986. After that time, the length mainly changes from about 2.4- to 2.6-year. Analyzing the anomaly data set of 850 MB trade wind index (TWI) at west Pacific during this period, we have found that the obvious time-variations characteristics of the QBO cycle also exist in the TWI change at west Pacific and are in good consistence with that of the OLR change. The quasi-biennial fluctuation of the TWI change can explain that of the OLR change to a large extent.

Incidence of ischaemic stroke according to income level among older people: the 3C study

2011-01-01

Background: stroke has been shown to follow a social gradient with incidence rising as socioeconomic status decreases.

Objective: to examine the relationship between socioeconomic status and ischaemic stroke risk amongst older people.

Setting: the Cities of Bordeaux, Dijon and Montpellier in France.

Subjects and methods: nine thousand and two hundred and ninety-four non-institutionalised persons aged 65 years or more followed for 6 years.

Results: the distribution of cardiovascular risks factors was consistent with the classical finding of more favourable risk profiles among the advantaged socioeconomic groups. One hundred and thirty-six individuals developed a first ever ischaemic stroke (incidence rate: 3.2 per 1,000 py (person-years), 95% CI 2.7–3.8). The age- and sex-adjusted incidence of ischaemic stroke increased with increasing level of income (from 2.4 to 4.1 per 1,000 py, P = 0.04). In the multivariable analysis adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, the higher income group displayed a 80% increased risk of ischaemic stroke compared with less wealthy participants (hazards ratio 1.77, 95% CI 1.20–2.61).

Conclusions: in this community-based sample of older individuals, a higher level of household income was associated with a higher risk of ischaemic stroke, a reversal of the social gradient usually reported in younger age groups. Selective survival is one of the potential explanations for this unexpected finding.

Extension services, product quality and yields: the case of grapes in Argentina

2011-06-01

This article studies the impact of publicly subsidized agricultural extension services on yields and product quality. We use panel data from grape producers in Mendoza, Argentina to estimate the impacts of farmer trainings. We find a negative overall impact on yields and evidence of a positive average impact on the adoption of higher-quality grape varieties. By analyzing the dynamic pattern of the estimated effects, we find evidence of a temporary decrease in yields suggesting the existence of an adjustment process following the introduction of higher-quality grapes. The overall negative effect on yield is driven by a sharp drop in the year of participation. This fades after year one, and two to three years after treatment we observe increases in higher-quality grape production. Findings reinforce the importance of temporal dimension of extension services.

Studies on the Efficiency of Some Fungicide at Two-Row Spring Barley for Fighting Against Spot Blotch (Cochliobolus sativus Ito and Kurib) in the North-West Suceava Plateau

2012-01-01

Fungus infects young leaves by direct penetration into epidermis or through stomata. C. sativus produces distinct elongate brown-black lesions (spot-blotch) that rarely >1 cm in length. The blotchy lesions contrast sharply with green or leaf tissue. Primary infections occur on coleoptiles, primary roots and subcrown internodes. Secondary conidia develop on the above-ground parts of plant. They disperse by wind and initiate lesions on leaves and culms. The circulation of Cochliobolus sativus fungus is realized through seed and soil as well the attack manifesting on the young plants and also during the whole period of vegetation. The efficiency of some fungicides applied to seed and during vegetation was tested. In order to control this patogen, two treatments were applied. From the researches made by RSDS Suceava for a longer period of time, researchers found out that the grain losses are almost 14% from the total production if there are not made any seed treatments and of minimum 16% if there are not applied two foliar treatments in the vegetation.

Seed Priming of Winter Annual Cover Crops Improves Germination and Emergence

2008-05-01

Enhancing soil-protecting living cover over the winter is an important challenge in temperate row crop production. This note reports on novel findings for cover crop seed priming, a process of controlled hydration and drying. The effects of seed priming over durations of 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 36 h were evaluated for four species that varied in seed size and germination characteristics: cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth), and oriental mustard (Brassica juncea L.). A logistic function modeled response was used to quantify onset of germination, time to 50% germination (t₅₀), maximum germination rate, final germination percentage (K), seedling emergence, and establishment in laboratory germination paper and soil core assays. Rye seed germinated rapidly regardless of priming treatment. Under the optimum environmental conditions of a laboratory germination assay, the smallest seeded cover crop, perennial ryegrass, was the only species to show a final germination response that was higher in primed (86%) than untreated seed (78%). However, seed germination rates of three species were influenced by priming: 50% germination was reached 8, 6, and 9 h earlier in hairy vetch, mustard, and perennial ryegrass, respectively. Compacted soil assays showed that priming (24 h) improved seedling emergence by 36% and 57% for hairy vetch and perennial ryegrass, respectively, compared with untreated seed. These results were consistent across experiment runs. Seed priming shows promise as a new technology for improving cover crop establishment in compacted soil.

Limited predictive ability of surrogate indices of insulin sensitivity/resistance in Asian-Indian men

2010-06-01

Insulin resistance is highly prevalent in Asian Indians and contributes to worldwide public health problems, including diabetes and related disorders. Surrogate measurements of insulin sensitivity/resistance are used frequently to study Asian Indians, but these are not formally validated in this population. In this study, we compared the ability of simple surrogate indices to accurately predict insulin sensitivity as determined by the reference glucose clamp method. In this cross-sectional study of Asian-Indian men (n = 70), we used a calibration model to assess the ability of simple surrogate indices for insulin sensitivity [quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), homeostasis model assessment (HOMA2-IR), fasting insulin-to-glucose ratio (FIGR), and fasting insulin (FI)] to predict an insulin sensitivity index derived from the reference glucose clamp method (SI_Clamp). Predictive accuracy was assessed by both root mean squared error (RMSE) of prediction as well as leave-one-out cross-validation-type RMSE of prediction (CVPE). QUICKI, FIGR, and FI, but not HOMA2-IR, had modest linear correlations with SI_Clamp (QUICKI: r = 0.36; FIGR: r = –0.36; FI: r = –0.27; P < 0.05). No significant differences were noted among CVPE or RMSE from any of the surrogate indices when compared with QUICKI. Surrogate measurements of insulin sensitivity/resistance such as QUICKI, FIGR, and FI are easily obtainable in large clinical studies, but these may only be useful as secondary outcome measurements in assessing insulin sensitivity/resistance in clinical studies of Asian Indians.

Cardiovascular responses to microinjections of urocortins into the NTS: role of inotropic glutamate receptors

2009-06-01

Urocortin 1 (Ucn1) and urocortin 3 (Ucn3) are new members of the corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) peptide family. Ucn1 is a ligand for both the CRF type 1 receptors (CRF₁Rs) and the CRF type 2 receptors (CRF₂Rs), whereas Ucn3 is a high-affinity ligand for the CRF₂Rs. Recently, we reported that Ucn3 microinjections into the medial nucleus tractus solitarius (mNTS) elicit decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) (Nakamura T, Kawabe K, Sapru HN. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 296: H325–H332, 2009). The presence of CRF₂Rs on afferent terminals has been reported in the mNTS of the rat. It was hypothesized that activation of CRF₂Rs on afferent terminals in the mNTS may release glutamate, which, in turn, may elicit decreases in MAP and HR via activation of ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGLURs). This hypothesis was tested in urethane-anesthetized, artificially ventilated, adult male Wistar rats. Microinjections (100 nl) of Ucn1 (0.12 mM) into the mNTS elicited decreases in MAP and HR. The responses were partially blocked by microinjections of iGLUR antagonists into the mNTS. On the other hand, the decreases in MAP and HR elicited by microinjections of Ucn3 (0.06 mM) into the mNTS were completely blocked by microinjections of iGLUR antagonists into the mNTS. These results indicate that activation of CRF₂Rs in the mNTS, by Ucn1 and Ucn3, releases glutamate, which, in turn, elicits decreases in MAP and HR via activation of iGLURs.

Isolation of murine lung endothelial cells

2009-06-01

Several protocols for the isolation of endothelial cells (ECs) from murine lung have been described in the literature. We, however, encountered a number of problems while using these procedures that prevented us from consistently or reliably obtaining pure populations of ECs from the lungs of mice. By incorporating specific elements from previously published protocols, as well as adding some novel features, we developed a new strategy for isolating ECs from murine lung. In this approach, a suspension of lung cells is initially prepared from the lungs of 7- to 14-day-old mouse pups using procedures that prevent intravascular clotting and leukocyte activation, minimize mechanical trauma to the lung tissue, and limit exposure to the digesting enzymes. The resulting cell suspension is cultured for 2–3 days, trypsinized to produce a suspension of single cells, and then subjected to fluorescence-activated cell sorting using an anti-ICAM-2 antibody. The sorted cells are then plated and split 1:2 at each passage to maintain a high density of the cells. Using this approach, we have been able to isolate pure populations of ECs that were sustainable for extended periods in culture without the emergence of fibroblast overgrowth or the development of senescence. We believe the success of this approach will provide opportunities to take advantage of the large and growing number of knockout and transgenic mouse lines to investigate the endothelial-specific roles of targeted molecules in the pulmonary vasculature.

Swelling and pressure-volume relationships in the dermis measured by osmotic-stress technique

2009-06-01

Water transfer across the extracellular matrix (ECM) involves interstitial osmotic forces in as yet unclear ways. In particular, the traditional values of Starling forces cannot adequately explain fluid transfer rates. Here, we reassess these forces by analyzing fluid transfer in live pig and human dermal explants. Pressure potentials were controlled with inert polymers adjusted by membrane osmometry (range = 3–219 mmHg), and fluid transfer in and out of the explants was followed by sequential precision weighing. Water motional freedom in the dermis was examined by NMR. In pigs, mean hydration pressure (HP; the pressure at which volume did not change) was 107 ± 22 and 47 ± 12 (SE) mmHg at 4°C and 37°C (P = 0.012, paired t-test, n = 7). Volume changes observed in response to pressure potential were reversible. The equation, Volume change = V_max/[1+(time/T_1/2)^d], where V_max is maximal volume change; T_1/2, time at volume = 1/2 V_max; and d, a rate parameter, was fitted to experimental progression curves (r² > 0.9), yielding V_max values linearly related to pressure, with mean slopes –3.5 ± 0.28 and –2.6 ± 0.21(SE) µl·g^–1·mmHg^–1 at 4°C and 37°C. NMR spin-spin relaxation times (T₂) varied within 200- to 400-µm distances in directions perpendicular to the epidermis, with slopes reaching 0.03 ms/µm. Results support a mechanism in which fluid transport across the ECM is locally regulated at micrometer scales by cell- and fiber-gel-dependent osmomechanical forces. The large HP helps to explain the fast interstitial in/out flow rates observed clinically.

Electrohydraulic pump-driven closed-loop blood pressure-regulatory system

2009-06-01

In this paper, we describe our design for a new electrohydraulic (EH) pump-driven renal perfusion pressure (RPP)-regulatory system capable of implementing precise and rapid RPP regulation in experimental animals. Without this automated system, RPP is manually controlled via a blood pressure clamp, and the imprecision in this method leads to compromised RPP data. This motivated us to develop an EH pump-driven closed-loop blood pressure regulatory system based on flow-mediated occlusion using the vascular occlusive cuff technique. A closed-loop servo-controller system based on a proportional plus integral (PI) controller was designed using the dynamic feedback RPP signal from animals. In vivo performance was evaluated via flow-mediated RPP occlusion, maintenance, and release responses during baseline and ANG II-infused conditions. A step change of –30 mmHg, referenced to normal RPP, was applied to Sprague-Dawley rats with the proposed system to assess the performance of the PI controller. The PI's performance was compared against manual control of blood pressure clamp to regulate RPP. Rapid RPP occlusion (within 3 s) and a release time of ~0.3 s were obtained for the PI controller for both baseline and ANG II infusion conditions, in which the former condition was significantly better than manual control. We concluded that the proposed EH RPP-regulatory system could fulfill in vivo needs to study various pressure-flow relationships in diverse fields of physiology, in particular, studying the dynamics of the renal autoregulatory mechanisms.

A New Measure of Alcohol Affordability for the UK

2010-06-01

Aims: To present revisions to the official UK measure of alcohol affordability published by the National Health Service (NHS) Information Centre. The revisions address the following problems in the official measure:

(a) The income measure used in the calculation is a measure of the income for the whole population of the UK, not income per capita.

(b) The income measure includes ‘imaginary’ items, namely imputed rentals and attributed income from insurance policies.

(d) The adjustment for inflation makes the measure unnecessarily complex and can have counter-intuitive effects.

Methods: The revised measure has the same essential structure as the NHS measure, being the ratio of income to price of alcohol. Adjustments were applied to official income figures, and adjustments for inflation were removed. Results: The revised measure shows that affordability has levelled off since 2003, in contrast to the NHS measure, which shows it continuing to rise until 2008. Conclusion: The revised measure corrects a basic error of failing to divide total income for the UK by number of people in the population. This alters the measure but is more correct. Further improvements result in a measure that correlates more closely with UK alcohol consumption over the last decade.

From Electioneering to Governing: Obama's Transition as Legitimation Ritual

2010-04-01

This essay reviews Barack Obama’s 2008-2009 transition from president-elect to president. Not only must the new and old presidents coordinate practical, bureaucratic matters, but in the United States, the president-elect is put through an 11-week legitimation ritual. As his status is transformed from campaigner to president, his words and actions in various situations are viewed as tests of strengths, weaknesses, vision, prudence, negotiative skill, humanity, fiber, and resolve. Not only is he tested but his words and actions are read by the press, commentators, and bloggers as signs of good or bad fortune for the country, just as the augurs of old read natural signs before momentous events. In general, Obama passed the tests and for the most part, an era of good fortune was predicted.

Effect of Some Fermentation Parameters on Ethanol Production from Beet Molasses by Saccharomyces cerevisiae CAIM13

2011-02-01

Problem statement: Some component of fermentation medium showed to reduce the Saccharomyces cerivisae production of ethanol. Approach: This study was designed to evaluate the role of some fermentation parameters in affecting ethanol productivity from beet molasses BM by Saccharomyces cerevisiae CAIM13. Results: Increase in cell concentration (inoculums size) of the yeast above 3.6x105 cells/100 mL decreased the ethanol yield. The yeast could tolerate ethanol concentration up to 10% but failed to grow at concentration of 12 and 15%. Employment of a bench-scale tank fermenter enhanced the fermentation efficiency. 77% of BM sugars were assimilated after 48h giving a concentration of 5.4% ethanol. Utilization of a cell-recycling technique showed that the tested organism was capable of performing four fermentation cycles. The mud-free, H₂SO₄-treated beet molasses TBM was superior to sucrose in the repeated batch fermentation technique. A continuous-flow fermentation technique employing immobilized yeast cells yielded maximum ethanol productivity after 6 days. Conclusion: The present investigation has demonstrated the importance of some fermentation parameters in improving the alcoholic fermentation technology of BM. When free cells of S. cerevisiae. In the case of immobilized cells, the continuous-flow technique speared superior to the repeated batch-fermentation technique in production of alcohol from TBM.

Multisensory Stimulation to Improve Functional Performance in Moderate to Severe Dementia--Interim Results

2010-08-01

Dementia is a growing problem worldwide and interventions to effectively manage and promote function are urgently required. Multisensory environments (MSEs) have been used extensively with people with dementia; however, no studies have been conducted to explore the efficacy of sensory stimulation on functional performance. This study explores to what extent multisensory stimulation influences functional performance in people with moderate-to-severe dementia using an MSE compared with a control activity. Thirty participants with moderate-to-severe dementia were recruited from the South of England. Following baseline assessment and design of a bespoke intervention, each participant attended their allocated intervention (3 x week, for 4 weeks). Assessments were carried out pre and postsession using the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills. Results indicate significant improvement in functional performance in both the MSE and the control activity. Findings support the use of MSEs as a strategy for enhancing functional performance in dementia.

The Effect of Heat or Heat-Xylose Processing on Nitrogen Fractions and in Situ/In Vitro Ruminal and Post-Ruminal Protein Disappearance of Guar Meal

2010-04-01

Problem statement: Guar meal is a by-product consisting of hull and germ and is mostly used as a protein source in poultry and ruminant rations. The aim was to determine the effect of heat or heat-xylose processing on nitrogen fractions, in situ ruminal degradation parameters and in situ/in vitro ruminal and post-ruminal disappearance of guar meal. Approach: Samples were intact Guar Meal (GM), heat processed GM (GM_hp, GM was heated at 100°C for 45 minute using industrial heater) and heat-xylose processed GM (GM_hx, xylose was included in GM to give a final concentration of 10 g kg^-1 DM, then was heat processed at 100°C for 45 minute using industrial heater). Ruminal degradation parameters of DM and Crude Protein (CP) were determined by in situ technique using four ruminally fistulated sheep. Post-ruminal disappearance of ruminal-undegradable CP was determined on residue from 16 h ruminal incubation of guar meal samples by three-step in situ/in vitro enzymatic procedure. Results: Non-protein nitrogen of the GM_hx and GM samples ranged from 218-319 (g kg^-1 N). Acid detergents insoluble nitrogen concentration of both GM and GMhp was significantly lower than that of GM_hx (10.3, 11.29 and 18.53 g kg^-1 nitrogen, respectively). In situ fractional degradation rate constant (c) of DM and CP was significantly decreased as a result of heat-xylose processing. Effective crude protein degradability of GM_hp and GM_hx was higher than that of GM. Post-ruminal disappearance of ruminal-undegradable CP of GM_hx (0.965) was significantly higher compared with GM and GM_hp (0.918 and 0.906, respectively). Conclusion: Results of the present study demonstrated that heat and heat-xylose processing might effectively protect the DM and CP of guar meal from ruminal degradation.

Field Programmable Gate Arrays Based Realization of Truncated Multipliers

2011-07-01

Problem statement: Due to high cost and non reconfiguration of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) in image processing applications, for example MPEG video compression used in CT scan frames requires real time conditions and the algorithms should be verified and optimized before implementation. Approach: Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) provides reconfiguration and implementation at the same time. Results: The implementation results of truncated multipliers on Sparatn-3An FPGA showed significant improvement as compared to Virtex and Virtex-E FPGA devices. Conclusion: Truncated multipliers can be used in medical imaging technology such as CT scan.

Modeling Growth of Microalgae Dunaliella Salina under Different Nutritional Conditions

2010-04-01

Problem statement: The aim of this study was to find the empirical model that describes the growth kinetics of Dunaliella salina, with low production cost and to estimate parameters of this model. Approach: In this study the strain of D. salina UTEX 200 was cultivated in seawater (0.5 M NaCl) at room temperature with agitation of 150 rpm and luminous intensity of 60 mmols.m-2.s-1. The synthetic medium AS100 (0.2 M NaCl) was used in this study for comparison purposes and in order to determine the optimal growth of the microalgae. Kinetics of growth and β-carotene production was determined in a period of 15 days. Results: After the analysis of the behavior graphic, an unstructured model was used for describing the cell growth (logistic model). It was observed that the model was well adjusted to experimental data for the two conditions of analysis. It was observed that alga produces carotenoids under conditions of stress, in which the cell division are retarded. In the case of cells grown in seawater (higher salt concentration), the cell growth was lower but the concentration of β-carotene was higher. Conclusion: In general, these results suggest that D. salina presents higher potential for β-carotene accumulation and that high salinity decreases cellular concentration (measured by the parameter Xm of the kinetic model proposed); however there is an increase in β-carotene production.

Hypoglycemic, Hypocholesterolemic and Ocular-protective Effects of an Aqueous Extract of the Rhizomes of Sansevieria senegambica Baker (Agavaceae) on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

2012-02-01

In this study, the effects of an aqueous extract of the rhizomes of Sansevieria senegambica on the haematology, plasma biochemistry and ocular indices of oxidative stress were investigated in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Diabetes mellitus was induced by injection of alloxan (80 mg kg^-1 body weight), via the tail vein. The extract was administered orally at 100, 200 and 300 mg kg^-1 (both to normal and diabetic rats) and metformin at 50 mg kg^-1. On gas chromatographic analysis of the flavonoid fraction of the crude aqueous extract, twenty nine known flavonoids were detected, consisting mainly of 31.46% apigenin, 20.47% quercetin, 11.21% kaempferol, 5.75% (-)-epicatechin, 5.75% naringenin, 3.60% biochanin, 3.58% (+)-catechin. Compared to test control, the treatment significantly lowered (p<0.05) ocular malondialdehyde content, atherogenic indices, total white cell and monocyte counts; and plasma levels of glucose, triglyceride, total-, very low density lipoprotein-, low density lipoprotein- and non-high density lipoprotein cholesterols, total and conjugated bilirubins, total protein, sodium, urea, blood urea nitrogen, as well as plasma activities of alkaline phosphatase, alanine and aspartate transaminases. However, the treatment significantly increased (p<0.05) haematocrit, haemoglobin concentration, red cell, lymphocyte and platelet counts, mean cell volume, ocular vitamin C content and plasma levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate and ocular activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase. Besides confirming the presence of pharmacologically active compounds in the rhizome extract, this study also showed the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-anemic, immune-modulating, ocular-, hepato-renal and cardio-protective potentials of the extract. All these, support the use of the rhizomes of Sansevieria senegambica in African traditional health care practices for the management of diabetes mellitus.

Soy proteins and isoflavones affect bone mineral density in older women: a randomized controlled trial

2009-01-01

Background: Soy foods contain several components (isoflavones and amino acids) that potentially affect bone. Few long-term, large clinical trials of soy as a means of improving bone mineral density (BMD) in late postmenopausal women have been conducted.

Objective: Our goal was to evaluate the long-term effect of dietary soy protein and/or soy isoflavone consumption on skeletal health in late postmenopausal women.

Design: We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in 131 healthy ambulatory women aged >60 y. Ninety-seven women completed the trial. After a 1-mo baseline period, subjects were randomly assigned into 1 of 4 intervention groups: soy protein (18 g) + isoflavone tablets (105 mg isoflavone aglycone equivalents), soy protein + placebo tablets, control protein + isoflavone tablets, and control protein + placebo tablets.

Results: Consumption of protein powder and isoflavone pills did not differ between groups, and compliance with the study powder and pills was 80–90%. No significant differences in BMD were observed between groups from baseline to 1 y after the intervention or in BMD change between equol and non-equol producers. However, there were significant negative correlations between total dietary protein (per kg) and markers of bone turnover (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Because soy protein and isoflavones (either alone or together) did not affect BMD, they should not be considered as effective interventions for preserving skeletal health in older women. The negative correlation between dietary protein and bone turnover suggests that increasing protein intakes may suppress skeletal turnover. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00668447.

In vitro Binding Chemistry of Amlodipine Besylate (Calcium Channel Blocker) and Atorvastatin Calcium (HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor) to Serum Albumin and their Mutual Effect to Displace Each Other from the Binding Site

2011-04-01

Combination therapy is now very common for the effective management of cardiovascular problems. The aim of the present study was to evaluate how clinically two important drugs, Amlodipine Besylate and Atorvastatin Calcium, bind with serum protein and the effect of drug-protein binding when they administered concomitantly. In this study the binding chemistry of Amlodipine and Atorvastatin to Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) was evaluated by Equilibrium dialysis method utilizing Warfarin Sodium (site-I specific probe) and Diazepam (site-II specific probe). Association constant and number of binding sites of the experimental drugs were carried out at pH values of 6.4 and 7.4. The non-liner curve of the plot suggests the presence of at least two classes of binding site (low affinity binding site and high affinity binding site) of experimental drugs to BSA. In both cases of high affinity binding site and low affinity binding, value of association constants of experimental drugs were found higher at pH 7.4. Both of the experimental drugs found to bind site-I preferentially as both of drugs displaced Warfarin Sodium more from the binding site on BSA than that of Diazepam. During concurrent administration of Amlodipine Besylate and Atorvastatin Calcium in presence or absence of diazepam, it was found that the ability of Atorvastatin Calcium to displace Amlodipine Besylate is more than the ability of Amlodipine Besylate to displace Atorvastatin Calcium from the binding site on BSA. The ability of experimental drugs to displace each other is found more in presence of Diazepam. As both drugs compete for the same binding site care should be given during concurrent administration of these two drugs.

Special Issue for the 6^th International Conference on Applied Financial Economics, Samos, Greece, 2-4 July 2009

2010-04-01

Not available

A Methodology for the Selection of Micro-Assembly Techniques

2010-04-01

Problem statement: The study addressed the problem of selecting the appropriate micro-assembly techniques according to the micro-part features. Actually, in the micro-domain, the choice of the correct assembly technique is highly dependent on the micro-part characteristics such as shape, geometry and material. Approach: Since there was an incomplete and unstructured knowledge about the micro-assembly, the study proposed a Decision Support System (DSS) as solution for assisting the designer in the correct selection of the most suitable micro-assembly strategies. The first step was establishing a structured correlation between micro-assembly techniques and part features. In particular the phases grasping and releasing were adopted as test-study for their importance in the micro-assembly process. The second step was the set up of a multistage model for the selection of the grasping-releasing technique and the implementation of the model in an Expert System as a set of rules. Results: The DSS was tested on some common micro-parts producing a scored list of selected grasping-releasing methods. Conclusion: The DSS proved quite valuable in the selection and the scoring of the micro-assembly principles that suit specific applications.

A Comparative Study on Safety and Security Management Systems in Industries

2010-06-01

Problem statement: To understand and appreciate the safety and security management systems in industries with a view to find out critical areas requiring attention so as to enhance the effectiveness of safety management systems and security management systems in large, medium and small scale industries. Approach: The study was restricted to Large, Medium and Small scale industries located in Tamilnadu, Kerala, Pondycherry, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh states of India. The data have been randomly collected from 45 samples each from Large, Medium and Small scale industries. This study has taken into the account of 6 major elements namely management commitment, documentation, facilities, promotion, procedure and training and each major elements having 6 sub elements thus consisting of 36 sub elements of safety management systems and 36 sub elements of security management systems. The sub-elements are prepared such as to reflect the availability of the safety and security management system in industries. Results: Major accident hazard industries require more attention towards safety and security management systems. The safety management system has gained more prevalence than security management system in large scale industries than the medium and small scale industries. The safety management system has considerable prevalence than security management system in medium scale industries than the small scale industries. The safety and security management system have more or less the same prevalence in the small scale industries. Conclusion: All the industries should devise systems for the adoption and implementation of safety and security management system. Security failures can lead to safety failures and hence they must be given equal importance. The major accident hazard industries should adopt all the safety and security management elements. All the elements of safety and security management systems should be given equal importance for effective and safe functioning of the industries. The security management system is an upcoming field which needs to be sincerely implemented in the industries in the present scenario of global terrorism. The safety and security management system should go together in a coherent manner to reduce the societal risk.

Finger Millet Polyphenols: Characterization and their Nutraceutical Potential

2007-07-01

Finger millet, one of the important minor cereals contains 0.3-3% polyphenols. The millet is known for its health benefits such as hypoglycemic, hypocholestrolemic and anti-ulcerative characteristics, besides for its extremely good storage qualities. It is generally presumed that, the polyphenols of millet have major beneficial role in some of these health beneficial characteristics of millet. However, a very limited reports are available relating to the varietal variations with respect to the polyphenol contents, methods of isolation and characterization of the polyphenols and their nutritional implications. Recently, some information on the characteristics of millet polyphenols, their localization in the millet kernel and also on their nutraceutical ability has been generated. This review deals with the information published as well as under publication on the millet polyphenols in general and their isolation, characterization and also their nutraceutical potential in particular.

Reflections on the Under-Researched Topic of Grief in Persons With Dementia: A Report From a Symposium on Grief and Dementia

2010-08-01

This article describes a symposium about the clinical challenges of providing care to persons with dementia and their families. The plenary session addressed the bereavement process in the general older adult population, neurocognitive processes that alter the grief process in persons with dementia, and therapeutic approaches to support grieving persons in different stages of dementia. Participants from diverse health care disciplines met in small groups to identify (1) current responses to persons with dementia and their families who experience a loss; (2) barriers to providing effective responses; and (3) possible interventions to improve care. Two general types of interventions emerged: practical/agency support and spiritual/affective engagement.

Relation of Serum and Semen Malondialdehyde and Total Anti-Oxidants with Sperm Parameters in Infertile Men

2010-03-01

Problem statement: Oxidative Stress (OS) has been recognized as one of the most important cause of male infertility. We studied the relation of serum and Semen Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) with sperm parameters in infertile men with sperm count within the normal range. Approach: The prospective case- control study performed on infertile men presenting to the infertility clinics of Mirzakochak khan hospital, Tehran university of Medical Sciences from June 2007 to June 2009. The samples were collected consecutively and the total of 40 infertile men was enrolled in the study. Also, 40 healthy men were matched as control group. MDA and TAC in serum and seminal plasma were measured and relation between them and semen analysis parameters were evaluated. The MDA was measured as nmol mL^-1 and the TAC was expressed as g dL^-1. Results: Analysis showed that the amount of semen MDA was statistically different in infertile and healthy control groups. We did not find any significant relation between smoking and sperm parameters in infertile men. The relation between semen MDA and abnormal sperm abnormal morphology (p = 0.003, r = -0.468) and semen TAC and weak sperm motility (p = 0.037, r = -0.359) was significant. Conclusion: Immediate attention should be directed at simplifying and validating the evaluation of reactive oxygen species and OS status so that it can be performed routinely.

Immunity to Diphtheria in Haemodialysis Patients

2011-01-01

Problem statement: The incidence of infectious diseases is increased in patients with chronic renal failure. Chronic renal failure severely influences the immune functions of the host. Diphtheria is of great epidemiological concern. Although mainly observed during childhood, unvaccinated adults and relatively immunocompromised patients are at increased risk for acquiring diphtheria. Approach: To evaluate the anti-Diphtheria immunity level in southern Iranian patients with end stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis and to find its association with sex, age, blood hemoglobin, serum albumin and duration of dialysis. This cross sectional study was carried out on a total of 52 patients, who were on hemodialysis and 52 age and sex matched healthy individuals with without any underlying renal disease as a control group. Subjects in the both groups receiving antidiphtheria toxoid vaccine or immunoglubins a year prior to the study were excluded. The serum antidiphtheria IgG antibody levels were measured by an ELISA method. Results: Diphtheria protected individuals in the patients and the control groups were 34.6 and 63.30% respectively. Of the evaluating factors just hemodialysis duration found to affect on diphtheria immunity. Conclusion: Diphtheria protected individuals in the patients group were significantly less than diphtheria protected individuals in the control group (p = 0.011). Hemodialysis duration has significant effect on anti-diphtheria immunity level.

Multiple Symptomatic Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations in a Patient with HIV

2009-06-01

SUMMARY: This brief case report describes an unusual presumed association of chronic HIV infection with multiple cerebral arteriovenous malformations. An adult male patient presented with recurrent spontaneous brain intracranial hemorrhages and neurologic deficits requiring surgical evacuation. The diagnosis was delayed because of lack of a high index of suspicion of this unexpected and previously unrecognized association.

Anti-Arthritic Activity of the Methanolic Leaf Extract of Urtica pilulifera L. on Albino Rats

2011-01-01

Problem statement: Urtica pilulifera (Urticeacae) has been used in folk medicine to alleviate inflammation and arthritis. In this study the anti-arthritic effect of methanolic leaf extract of the plant was evaluated and compared to untreated control as well as ibuprofen-treated groups in a rat model of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis. Approach: Arthritis was induced by injecting CFA subcutaneously into the right paw. The extract was given orally one day before CFA injection up to the completion of study (for 30 days). Two extract doses (1.33 and 2.0 g kg^-1) and ibuprofen (53 mg kg^-1) as a positive control were used. Paw volume was measured on alternate days up to 30 days. In addition, the effect of the extract on joint deformity, ankle swelling and inflammatory markers was evaluated. Results: The extract prevented arthritis-induced increase in paw volume and joint deformity dose-dependently as compared to control. Moreover, the extract showed significant increase in the packed cell volume [p<0.05]. No alteration of kidney or liver function tests was detected in rats during repeated dose treatment. Conclusion: This study supports the traditional use of U. pilulifera for the treatment of inflammatory disorders and rheumatoid arthritis and suggests further evaluation for its role in increasing red blood cells.

Phosphorylation of myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate is involved in the cAMP-dependent amylase release in parotid acinar cells

2009-06-01

Myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS) is known as a major cellular substrate for protein kinase C (PKC). MARCKS has been implicated in the regulation of brain development and postnatal survival, cellular migration and adhesion, as well as phagocytosis, endocytosis, and exocytosis. The involvement of MARCKS phosphorylation in secretory function has been reported in Ca²⁺-mediated exocytosis. In rat parotid acinar cells, the activation of β-adrenergic receptors provokes exocytotic amylase release via accumulation of intracellular cAMP levels. Here, we studied the involvement of MARCKS phosphorylation in the cAMP-dependent amylase release in rat parotid acinar cells. MARCKS protein was detected in rat parotid acinar cells by Western blotting. The β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol (IPR) induced MARCKS phosphorylation in a time-dependent manner. Translocation of a part of phosphorylated MARCKS from the membrane to the cytosol and enhancement of MARCKS phosphorylation at the apical membrane site induced by IPR were observed by immunohistochemistry. H89, a cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor, inhibited the IPR-induced MARCKS phosphorylation. The PKC inhibitor rottlerin inhibited the IPR-induced MARCKS phosphorylation and amylase release. IPR activated PKC, and the effects of IPR were inhibited by the PKA inhibitors. A MARCKS-related peptide partially inhibited the IPR-induced amylase release. These findings suggest that MARCKS phosphorylation via the activation of PKC, which is downstream of PKA activation, is involved in the cAMP-dependent amylase release in parotid acinar cells.

Effect of Sitosterol on Root Formation of Cotton Cuttings

2011-06-01

A pot experiments were carried out during 2003 and 2004 summer seasons in the greenhouse of the National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt to determine the effect of sitosterol on root formation of cotton cuttings, growth, yield and its components as well as biochemical constituents of two cotton cultivars. Cuttings of two Egyptian cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) cultivars Giza 85 and Giza 89 were taken from the previous growing season during the activity stage of buds containing two nodes. Cotton cuttings were soaked in sitosterol concentrations (100, 150 and 200 ppm) for 1 h at laboratory conditions as well as control treatment (distilled water). Cotton cuttings were grown in pots N. 30 filled with loamy soil at March 27 and 31 of 2003 and 2004 seasons, respectively. The results indicated that in both cotton cultivars root length was significantly and gradually increased with increasing sitosterol from zero to 150 or 200 ppm. Data also showed that sitosterol application significantly increased boll weight and seed cotton yield per plant with increasing sitosterol up to 200 ppm. Application of 200 ppm sitosterol in Giza 85 produced the highest values in all yield traits in comparison with untreated plants or with plants received 100 or 150 ppm sitosterol. On contrary, in Giza 89 application of 200 ppm sitosterol decreased number of bolls per plant, number of seeds per boll and seed weight per boll in comparison with control plants or with low sitosterol concentrations. Total indoles in stem of Giza 85 was increased by using 100 or 150 ppm sitosterol, while total soluble sugars was increased in roots of Giza 85 at high concentration in both cotton cultivars. Application of 200 ppm sitosterol increased total carbohydrates in root, stem and leaves of Giza 85 while in Giza 89 an opposite trend was noticed by using the highest sitosterol concentration. In general, it could be concluded that application of sitosterol to cotton cuttings lead to encourage the root formation and enhancing the growth and yield of cotton plants.

Social Norm Processing in Adult Social Phobia: Atypically Increased Ventromedial Frontal Cortex Responsiveness to Unintentional (Embarrassing) Transgressions

2010-12-01

Objective:

Little is known about the neural underpinnings of generalized social phobia, which is defined by a persistent heightened fear of social disapproval. Using event-related functional MRI (fMRI), the authors examined whether the intent of an event, which mediates the neural response to social disapproval in healthy individuals, differentially affects response in generalized social phobia.

Method:

Sixteen patients with generalized social phobia and 16 healthy comparison subjects group-matched on age, gender, and IQ underwent fMRI scans while reading stories that involved neutral social events, unintentional social transgressions (e.g., choking on food at a party and coughing it up), or intentional social transgressions (e.g., disliking food at a party and spitting it out).

Results:

Significant group-by-transgression interactions were observed in ventral regions of the medial prefrontal cortex. Healthy individuals tended to show increased blood-oxygen-level-dependent responses to intentional relative to unintentional transgressions. Patients with generalized social phobia, however, showed significantly increased responses to the unintentional transgressions. They also rated the unintentional transgressions as significantly more embarrassing than did the comparison subjects. Results also revealed significant group main effects in the amygdala and insula bilaterally, reflecting elevated generalized social phobia responses in these regions to all event types.

Conclusions:

These results further implicate the medial prefrontal cortex in the pathophysiology of generalized social phobia, specifically through its involvement in distorted self-referential processing. These results also further underscore the extended role of the amygdala and insula in the processing of social stimuli more generally in generalized social phobia.

Long-Term Quality of Life Assessment Among Patients Undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization

2009-01-01

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was assessment of the long-term outcome of fibroid-associated quality of life among patients treated with uterine fibroid embolization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. A retrospective follow-up cohort study included all patients described in a 2006 publication. Analysis was performed with a questionnaire consisting of 49 questions about six topics. Assessment was focused on comparing symptoms and quality of life in long-term follow-up.

RESULTS. The analysis was based on questionnaires completed by 39 patients. The median follow-up period was 7 years (interquartile range, 1.5 years). Uterine fibroid embolization led to a reduction of bleeding symptoms in 89.7% of the patients, pain in 78.9%, bulk-related symptoms in 89.5%, fatigue in 76.9%, limitations of social life in 92.9%, and depression in 78.6%. The median impairment scores for bleeding and pain decreased significantly from 7 to 0 and from 5 to 0 (both p < 0.001). The general quality-of-life index increased significantly from 4.5 to 9 (p < 0.001). In the long term, there was no significant difference in parameters assessed compared with the midterm follow-up findings. Six patients (15.4%) underwent hysterectomy an average of 32.1 months after intervention. Thirty-two patients (82.1%) continued to be satisfied with the intervention, and 30 patients (76.9%) answered that they would recommend uterine fibroid embolization to other patients.

CONCLUSION. Uterine fibroid embolization seems to lead to notable long-term relief of fibroid-associated symptoms. In comparison with the midterm results, long-term outcome shows a clear continuance of improvement in general quality of life.

Ultrasound-Guided Axillary Brachial Plexus Block with 20 Milliliters Local Anesthetic Mixture Versus General Anesthesia for Upper Limb Trauma Surgery: An Observer-Blinded, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial

2009-01-01

OBJECTIVE: We performed a randomized, controlled trial comparing low-dose ultrasound-guided axillary block with general anesthesia evaluating anesthetic and perioperative analgesic outcomes.

METHODS: Patients were randomized to either ultrasound-guided axillary block or general anesthesia. Ultrasound-guided axillary block was performed using a needle-out-of-plane approach. Up to 5 mL of local anesthetic injectate (equal parts 2% lidocaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine and 0.5% bupivacaine with 7.5 mg/mL clonidine) was injected after identifying the median, ulnar, radial, and musculocutaneous nerves. A maximum of 20 mL local anesthetic injectate was used. General anesthesia was standardized to include induction with fentanyl and propofol, maintenance with sevoflurane in an oxygen/nitrous oxide mixture. Pain scores were measured in the recovery room and at 2, 6, 24, 48 h, and 7 days. Ability to bypass the recovery room and time to achieve hospital discharge criteria were also assessed.

RESULTS: All ultrasound-guided axillary block patients achieved satisfactory anesthesia. The ultrasound-guided axillary block group had lower visual analog scale pain scores in the recovery room (0.3 [1.3] vs 55.8 [36.5], P < 0.001), and visual rating scale pain scores at 2 h (0.3 [1.3] vs 45 [29.6], P < 0.001), and at 6 h (1.1 [2.7] vs 4 [2.8], P < 0.01). All ultrasound-guided axillary block patients bypassed the recovery room and attained earlier hospital discharge criteria (30 min vs 120 min 30/240 P < 0.0001 median [range]).

CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasound-guided axillary brachial plexus block with 20 mL local anesthetic mixture provided satisfactory anesthesia and superior analgesia after upper limb trauma surgery when compared with general anesthesia.

Revascularization Versus Medical Therapy for Renal Artery Stenosis: Antihypertensive Drugs and Renal Outcome

2011-01-01

Endovascular procedures may play a role in renal artery stenosis (RAS) treatment in attempt to preserve renal function and improve hypertension control. We determined renal outcome and the incidence of restenosis in patients with RAS treated with renal percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (RPTAs) and medical therapy versus patients with RAS treated only with medical therapy. We performed an observational study based on 93 patients with RAS. In all, 53 patients underwent RPTAs in association with medical therapy and 40 patients were only treated pharmacologically. In patients receiving RPTAs, a better renal outcome, a decrease of restenosis rate, and systolic—diastolic blood pressure were associated with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) + angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-is) therapy. In patients treated with medical therapy alone, renal improvement was related to ARBs in association with BBs (β-blockers; P < .0001). This study suggests that medical therapy may exert beneficial effects in patients with RAS.

Should you eat your offspring before someone else does? Effect of an egg predator on filial cannibalism in the sand goby

2009-01-01

Costs and benefits of parental care are expected to affect filial cannibalism. One factor that increases the costs and decreases the benefits of care is the presence of egg predators. In general, the effect of egg predators on filial cannibalism is unknown. Here, we examine the effect of an egg predator on filial cannibalism in the sand goby. Males caring for eggs were exposed to three treatments: no egg predator, visual cues from an egg predator, and chemical and visual cues from an egg predator. We hypothesized that the perceived benefits of providing care in the presence of an egg predator would be relatively low, and we expected filial cannibalism to increase in the presence of the egg predator, especially when both chemical and visual predator cues were present, as this might represent a greater threat. When both visual and chemical predator cues were present, whole-clutch cannibalism increased. In addition, larger males and males in poorer condition showed less whole-clutch cannibalism than smaller males or males in better condition. There was no effect of egg predator on partial-clutch cannibalism. However, males that engaged in partial-clutch cannibalism ate more of their eggs when the eggs were spawned by a female in relatively good condition, but a smaller proportion and number of eggs when only a single female spawned. In general, our findings suggest that male sand gobies are sensitive to the costs and benefits of care and are more likely to terminate care when the expected benefits are relatively low.

High Concordance of Bovine Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotypes Generated Using Two Independent Genotyping Strategies

2010-04-01

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) represent the most common form of DNA sequence variation in mammalian livestock genomes. While the past decade has witnessed major advances in SNP genotyping technologies, genotyping errors caused, in part, by the biochemistry underlying the genotyping platform used, can occur. These errors can distort project results and conclusions and can result in incorrect decisions in animal management and breeding programs; hence, SNP genotype calls must be accurate and reliable. In this study, 263 Bos spp. samples were genotyped commercially for a total of 16 SNPs. Of the total possible 4,208 SNP genotypes, 4,179 SNP genotypes were generated, yielding a genotype call rate of 99.31% (standard deviation ± 0.93%). Between 110 and 263 samples were subsequently re-genotyped by us for all 16 markers using a custom-designed SNP genotyping platform, and of the possible 3,819 genotypes a total of 3,768 genotypes were generated (98.70% genotype call rate, SD ± 1.89%). A total of 3,744 duplicate genotypes were generated for both genotyping platforms, and comparison of the genotype calls for both methods revealed 3,741 concordant SNP genotype call rates (99.92% SNP genotype concordance rate). These data indicate that both genotyping methods used can provide livestock geneticists with reliable, reproducible SNP genotypic data for in-depth statistical analysis.

Uptake of aluminium into Arabidopsis root cells measured by fluorescent lifetime imaging

2009-01-01

Background and Aims

Measuring the Al³⁺ uptake rate across the plasma membrane of intact root cells is crucial for understanding the mechanisms and time-course of Al toxicity in plants. However, a reliable method with the sufficient spatial and temporal resolution to estimate Al³⁺ uptake in intact root cells does not exist.

Methods

In the current study, fluorescent lifetime imaging (FLIM) analysis was used to quantify Al³⁺ uptake in the root-cell cytoplasm in vivo. This was performed via the estimation of the fluorescence lifetime of Al–lumogallion {5-chloro-3[(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)azo]-2-hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid} complexes and measurements of intracellular pH while exposing arabidopsis seedlings to acidic and Al³⁺ stresses.

Key Results

The lifetime of Al–lumogallion complexes fluorescence is pH-dependent. The primary sites for Al³⁺ entry are the meristem and distal elongation zones, while Al³⁺ uptake via the cortex and epidermis of the mature root zone is limited. The maximum rates of Al uptake into the cytoplasm (2–3 µmol m^–3 min^–1 for the meristematic root zone and 3–7 µmol m^–3 min^–1 for the mature zone) were observed after a 30-min exposure to 100 µm AlCl₃ (pH 4·2). Intracellular Al concentration increased to 0·4 µm Al within the first 3 h of exposure to 100 µm AlCl₃.

Conclusions

FLIM analysis of the fluorescence of Al–lumogallion complexes can be used to reliably quantify Al uptake in the cytoplasm of intact root cells at the initial stages of Al³⁺ stress.

Cortisol measurement in patients receiving metyrapone therapy

2010-06-01

Current guidance recommends titrating the dose of metyrapone against serum cortisol concentration, in patients under medical management of Cushing's syndrome. In the UK, this almost always involves measuring serum cortisol concentration by immunoassay, the performance of which is questionable in the presence of altered steroid metabolism. Sera from two patients receiving metyrapone were analysed using a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (MS) steroid assay to identify which steroids, if any, were elevated in these patients. In addition, control serum was spiked with a series of steroids to identify any potential positive interferences in a cortisol immunoassay. Serum 11-deoxycortisol concentration was elevated in both of the patients studied. One patient also had an elevated serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentration and the other an elevated androstenedione. In addition, the results of the interference studies indicated that the cortisol immunoassay was susceptible to interference from 11-deoxycortisol, 17-hydroxyprogesterone and 21-deoxycortisol. However, the magnitude of interference, in the serum cortisol immunoassay, due to these three steroids could not account for the discrepancy between the cortisol concentrations measured by immunoassay and those measured by MS. Both clinicians and laboratory staff should be aware of these interferences when monitoring patients undergoing treatment with metyrapone, and consequently serum should be measured in these patients by MS, not by immunoassay.

Phase II study of 3-AP Triapine in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

2009-07-01

Background: Treatment options for recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are limited with response rates to cytotoxic chemotherapy of ~30% and median survival of 6 months.

Patients and methods: In a multicentre phase II study, 32 patients with recurrent or metastatic HNSCC received 3-AP Triapine (3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone), an inhibitor of ribonucleotide reductase, 96 mg/m², daily for 4 days every 14 days (one cycle). Eligibility criteria required Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of zero to two with a life expectancy of >3 months; one prior chemotherapy regimen was allowed.

Results: Thirty patients were assessable for response and toxicity. Median age was 57 years (range 36–79) and median ECOG PS was one (range 0–2). Thirteen patients had previously been treated with chemotherapy. A total of 130 cycles were administered with a median number of cycles of 3.5 (range 1–8). Mild anaemia (40%), nausea (22%) and fatigue (22%) were commonly reported with G3 and G4 neutropenia documented in 22% and 22%, respectively. Overall response rate was 5.9% (95% confidence interval 0.2% to 28.7%). One patient achieved a partial response, eight had stable disease and 21 progressive disease. Median time to disease progression was 3.9 months.

Conclusions: 3-AP Triapine as a single agent, at this dose and schedule, is well tolerated but has only minor activity in the treatment of advanced HNSCC.

Mode of action of abatacept in rheumatoid arthritis patients having failed tumour necrosis factor blockade: a histological, gene expression and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging pilot study

2009-07-01

Objectives:

Abatacept is the only agent currently approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that targets the co-stimulatory signal required for full T-cell activation. No studies have been conducted on its effect on the synovium, the primary site of pathology. The aim of this study was to determine the synovial effect of abatacept in patients with RA and an inadequate response to tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF) blocking therapy.

Methods:

This first mechanistic study incorporated both dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and arthroscopy-acquired synovial biopsies before and 16 weeks after therapy, providing tissue for immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR analyses.

Results:

Sixteen patients (13 women) were studied; all had previously failed TNF-blocking therapy. Fifteen patients completed the study. Synovial biopsies showed a small reduction in cellular content, which was significant only for B cells. The quantitative PCR showed a reduction in expression for most inflammatory genes (Wald statistic of p<0.01 indicating a significant treatment effect), with particular reduction in IFN of –52% (95% CI –73 to –15, p<0.05); this correlated well with MRI improvements. In addition, favourable changes in the osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B levels were noted. DCE–MRI showed a reduction of 15–40% in MRI parameters.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that abatacept reduces the inflammatory status of the synovium without disrupting cellular homeostasis. The reductions in gene expression influence bone positively and suggest a basis for the recently demonstrated radiological improvements that have been seen with abatacept treatment in patients with RA.

In Vitro and In Vivo Validation of ligA and tarI as Essential Targets in Staphylococcus aureus

2008-12-01

A conditional expression system has been developed using the isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG)-inducible Pspac promoter to validate essential genes of Staphylococcus aureus in vivo. The system has been applied to prove the essentiality of ligA and to evaluate the function of tarI, which was found to be essential in vitro but not in vivo.

Transposable Element Loads in a Bacterial Symbiont of Weevils Are Extremely Variable

2008-12-01

Not only are transposable elements profuse in the bacterial endosymbiont of maize weevils, but we found that their quantities also vary ~10-fold among individual weevils. Because multicopy elements can facilitate homologous recombination, this insertion sequence (IS) load variability suggests that these essentially asexual bacteria may exhibit substantial intraspecific genomic variation.

Paper-structured fiber composites impregnated with platinum nanoparticles synthesized on a carbon fiber matrix for catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides

2009-03-4-01

Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) were synthesized on surface-activated carbon fibers with high thermal conductivity, and paper-structured composites were fabricated by a papermaking technique, using the PtNPs-supported carbon fibers and ceramic fibers as matrix materials. As-prepared materials, denoted paper-structured PtNPs catalyst, possessed a unique porous microstructure derived from entangled inorganic fiber networks on which PtNPs were well dispersed. In catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides (NO_X) in the presence of methane (CH₄), both of which are model exhaust gas components of combustion engines, paper-structured PtNPs catalyst demonstrated excellent NO_X and CH₄ removal efficiency and rapid thermal responsiveness by comparison with the PtNPs-supported carbon fibers, commercial Pt catalyst powders and a monolithic Pt-loaded honeycomb. These features of the new catalyst material are thought to arise from synergistic effects of the highly active PtNPs in association with the unique paper-like microstructure, in promoting effective transfer of heat and reactants to the active sites of the Pt nanocatalysts. The paper-structured PtNPs catalyst with paper-like practical utility is expected to be a promising catalytic material for efficient NO_X gas purification.

Gold and oil futures markets: Are markets efficient?

2010-10-01

In this paper we examine the long-run relationship between gold and oil spot and futures markets. We draw on the conceptual framework that when oil price rises, it creates inflationary pressures, which instigate investments in gold as a hedge against inflation. We test for the long-run relationship between gold and oil futures prices at different maturity and unravel evidence of cointegration. This implies that: (a) investors use the gold market as a hedge against inflation and (b) the oil market can be used to predict the gold market prices and vice versa, thus these two markets are jointly inefficient, at least for the sample period considered in this study.

Water geochemistry of the Xijiang basin rivers, South China: Chemical weathering and CO₂ consumption

2010-10-01

The Xijiang River, the mainstream of the Zhujiang (Pearl) River, which is the second largest river in China in terms of discharge, flows through a large carbonate rock region in South China. The chemical and Sr isotopic compositions of the Xijiang waters were determined during the high-flow season in order to understand the chemical weathering processes, associated CO₂ consumption and anthropogenic influences within the carbonate-dominated basin. The major ion compositions of the river waters are characterized by the dominance of Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, is mainly derived from the oxidation of sulfide minerals and acid precipitation caused by coal combustion. Chemical and Sr isotopic compositions of the river waters indicate that four reservoirs (carbonates, silicates, evaporites and anthropogenic inputs) contribute to the total dissolved loads. The chemical weathering rates of carbonates and silicates for the Xijiang basin are estimated to be approximately 78.5 and 7.45 ton km⁻² a⁻¹, respectively. The total chemical weathering rate of rocks for the Xijiang basin is approximately 86.1 ton km⁻² a⁻¹ or 42 mm ka⁻¹, which is much higher than global mean values. The budgets of CO₂ consumption by carbonate and silicate weathering are estimated to be 284 × 10⁹ and 54.3 × 10⁹ mol a⁻¹, respectively. It would appear that H₂SO₄ is involved as a proton donor in weathering reactions in the Xijiang basin; calculated results show that the contribution of cations from rock weathering induced by H₂SO₄ accounts for approximately 11.2%. Results from this study show that the flux of CO₂ released into the atmosphere is approximately 0.1 × 10⁶ mol C km⁻² a⁻¹ or 0.41 × 10¹² g C a⁻¹ produced by H₂SO₄-induced carbonate weathering in the basin. When extrapolated to the entire surface area of carbonate in SW China, the flux of CO₂ released to the atmosphere by H₂SO₄-induced carbonate weathering is about 1.41 × 10¹² g C a⁻¹.

Inverse problem for the reaction diffusion system by optimization method

2011-01-01

In this paper, we study an inverse problem of reconstructing two time independent coefficients in the reaction diffusion system from the final measurement. First the given problem is transformed into an optimization problem by using optimal control framework and the existence of the minimizer for the control functional is established. Then we prove the stability estimate for two coefficients with the upper bound given by some Sobolev norms of the final measurement.

Multivariate Bell polynomials and their applications to powers and fractionary iterates of vector power series and to partial derivatives of composite vector functions

2008-02-01

If a power series is raised to a power, the coefficients of the new power series are called the partial Bell polynomials. They are useful for obtaining the inverse power series, iterations (possibly fractional) of the original power series, logs and exponents of power series, the derivatives of a composite function, and for solving various problems in partition theory. Multivariate versions of these diverse and useful results are given in terms of multivariate Bell polynomials, introduced here for the first time.

EPR analysis of the effects of accelerated carbon ion and fast neutron irradiations on table sugar

2009-09-01

Table sugar samples were irradiated with accelerated carbon ions and fast neutrons. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) analysis performed after the irradiation revealed a complex spectrum similar to that observed after γ-ray irradiations. The total concentration of the paramagnetic centers induced by accelerated carbon ions and neutrons was proportional to the absorbed dose. Good stability of the produced free radicals was observed for a typical period of sugar storage. Sugar was more sensitive to accelerated carbon ions than to neutrons. The results show that table sugar can be a useful material for dosimetry in the case of a radiation accident.

Speedy photoelectric exchange of CdSe quantum dots/mesoporous titania composite system

2009-06-01

Two classes of important nano-materials, mesoporous titania (MT) and CdSe quantum dots, are prepared via chemical methods. Rapid immobilization of CdSe quantum dots into mesoporous titania has been achieved and the composite system is characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and photoluminescence. The band-to-band photoluminescence emission of CdSe quantum dots is blue-shifted for 20nm after the dots are immobilized into mesoporous titania. Loading CdSe quantum dots into mesoporous titania leads to speedy photoelectric exchange process of the system and a significant rise in photoconductivity (for a factor of 8), which would attract great deal of attention in quantum dots solar cell.

Effect of Echinacea purpurea on growth and survival of guppy (Poecilia reticulata) challenged with Aeromonas bestiarum

2011-06-01

The effects of Echinacea purpurea supplementation on growth performance, nutrient utilization, body composition and disease resistance were studied in the ornamental fish Poecilia reticulata. Five diets were used, each differing in Echinacea content (0 g kg⁻¹ diet − control, 5 g kg⁻¹ diet − group 1, 10 g kg⁻¹ diet − group 2, 20 g kg⁻¹ diet − group 3, 30 g kg⁻¹ diet − group 4 and 60 g kg⁻¹ diet − group 5), and the fish were fed twice daily at a rate of 30 g kg⁻¹ body weight per day for 67 days. The gain in the body weight and the condition factor were significantly increased in groups 2-5, whereas specific growth rate and feed conversion ratio were significantly increased in the supplemented groups (P < 0.05). Cumulative mortalities after challenge infection with the fish pathogen Aeromonas bestiarum were the lowest in the groups supplemented with Echinacea. Log-rank tests showed significant differences between the supplemented groups 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 and the control group (P = 0.0074, P = 0.0075, P = 0.00507, P = 0.00001 and P = 0.00001, respectively). The results of this study indicate that Echinacea improves body weight gain and resistance against challenge infection in fish.

Specific Nail Alterations in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: Successful Treatment With Topical Mechlorethamine

2010-11-01

Background Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma can be associated with clinically significant nail alterations, the presentation of which can be protean and misleading. To date, only a few reports have demonstrated direct specific tumor infiltration of the nail bed, while little is known about the efficacy of topical treatments.

Observations We describe the case of a 93-year-old man presenting with Sézary syndrome who developed clinically significant nail alterations. Light microscopy studies and T-cell receptor rearrangement analysis demonstrated the presence of a specific lymphocytic infiltrate within the nail bed. The patient was given repeated courses of topical mechlorethamine, leading to a sustained complete remission of both skin and nail alterations.

Conclusions Specific nail involvement should be recognized and considered in all patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphomas. Topical mechlorethamine remains an attractive therapeutic option in cases of specific nail alterations, especially for situations in which systemic therapies are either not indicated or unlikely to be well tolerated.

Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome: a cause of extreme macrocephaly and neurodevelopmental delay

2009-07-01

Background:

Bannayan–Riley–Ruvalcaba syndrome (BRRS) is an autosomal dominant condition characterised by macrocephaly, developmental delay and subtle cutaneous features. BRRS results from mutations in the PTEN gene. In adults, PTEN mutations cause Cowden syndrome where, in addition to the macrocephaly, there is a higher risk of tumour development. Diagnosis of BRRS is often delayed as presentation can be variable, even within families.

Aims:

To identify characteristics of this condition which might facilitate early diagnosis. Prompt diagnosis not only avoids unnecessary investigations in the child but potentially identifies heterozygote parents who are at risk of tumour development.

Methods and Results:

Six children with a PTEN mutation were identified. All had extreme macrocephaly. Four parents and a male sibling were found to have a PTEN mutation on subsequent testing. Affected parents had extreme macrocephaly and a history of thyroid adenoma, or breast or skin lesions. All six children had presented to medical attention before the age of 2.5 years (3/6 were investigated as neonates), but the median age at diagnosis was 5 years. Four of the children had multiple investigations prior to identification of a PTEN mutation.

Conclusion:

BRRS should be considered in children with extreme macrocephaly as it is the most consistent clinical feature seen, particularly where there is a family history of macrocephaly.

Laterobasal Amygdalar Enlargement in 6- to 7-Year-Old Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

2010-11-01

Context There is substantial imaging evidence for volumetric abnormalities of the amygdala in younger children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The amygdala can be divided into functionally distinct laterobasal, superficial, and centromedial subregions. To date, we are not aware of any in vivo reports specifically assessing subregional amygdalar abnormalities in individuals with ASD.

Objectives To evaluate alterations in subregional amygdalar morphology in children with ASD compared with typically developing (TD) children and to examine the relationships with ASD symptom severity.

Design A cross-sectional study encompassing a narrow age range of children with ASD and age-matched TD children that evaluated magnetic resonance imaging–defined subregional morphology of the amygdala using a novel subregional analytic method.

Setting Participants were recruited and clinically evaluated through the University of Washington Autism Center and imaged at the Diagnostic Imaging Sciences Center at the University of Washington. Imaging data were analyzed through the Brain Imaging Laboratory at the Seoul National University.

Participants Fifty-one children 6 to 7 years of age (ASD, n = 31 and TD, n = 20) were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging and behavioral measures.

Main Outcome Measures Volume and subregional measures of the amygdala and measures of social and communication functioning.

Results The ASD group exhibited larger right and left amygdalae, by 12.7% and 11.0%, respectively, relative to the TD group. Subregional analysis revealed that the ASD group had enlarged laterobasal amygdalar subregions, relative to the TD group, after adjusting for age, sex, and hemispheric cerebral volume (P < .05, false discovery rate corrected and with clustered surface points >15). Exploratory analyses revealed that there were linear trends comparing a strictly defined subgroup of children with autistic disorder, who exhibited the greatest extent of laterobasal enlargement, followed by a subgroup of children with pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified and then the group of TD children (P for linear trend <.001). There were linear trends between enlargement of laterobasal subregions and lower levels of social and communication functioning (P < .001, P < .001, and P = .001 for 3 areas in the right laterobasal subregion; P < .001 for 1 area in the left laterobasal subregion).

Conclusion The current study demonstrates bilateral enlargement of laterobasal subregions of the amygdala in 6- to 7-year-old children with ASD and that subregional alterations are associated with deficits in social and communicative behavior.

Testing for the Presence of Positive-Outcome Bias in Peer Review: A Randomized Controlled Trial

2010-12-01

Background If positive-outcome bias exists, it threatens the integrity of evidence-based medicine.

Methods We sought to determine whether positive-outcome bias is present during peer review by testing whether peer reviewers would (1) recommend publication of a "positive" version of a fabricated manuscript over an otherwise identical "no-difference" version, (2) identify more purposefully placed errors in the no-difference version, and (3) rate the "Methods" section in the positive version more highly than the identical "Methods" section in the no-difference version. Two versions of a well-designed randomized controlled trial that differed only in the direction of the finding of the principal study end point were submitted for peer review to 2 journals in 2008-2009. Of 238 reviewers for The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research randomly allocated to review either a positive or a no-difference version of the manuscript, 210 returned reviews.

Results Reviewers were more likely to recommend the positive version of the test manuscript for publication than the no-difference version (97.3% vs 80.0%, P < .001). Reviewers detected more errors in the no-difference version than in the positive version (0.85 vs 0.41, P < .001). Reviewers awarded higher methods scores to the positive manuscript than to the no-difference manuscript (8.24 vs 7.53, P = .005), although the "Methods" sections in the 2 versions were identical.

Conclusions Positive-outcome bias was present during peer review. A fabricated manuscript with a positive outcome was more likely to be recommended for publication than was an otherwise identical no-difference manuscript.

Special Considerations for Pars Plana Tube-Shunt Placement in Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis

2010-11-01

The Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis has been successfully used in eyes with a poor prognosis for a conventional penetrating keratoplasty. The Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis Study Group reported significant postoperative vision improvement with a high rate of graft retention. However, glaucoma has significantly limited visual potential in patients with otherwise successful transplants. Given a crowded anterior chamber, scarring, and/or inability to visualize the anterior segment after the keratoprosthesis implantation, vitrectomy and pars plana tube placement is frequently necessary for intraocular pressure control. In addition, the need for optimal contact lens fitting after surgery necessitates a modified surgical technique for the combined procedure to avoid complications and to achieve optimal visual rehabilitation. We present our technique in a case series of combined vitrectomy and pars plana glaucoma shunt placement for the Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis.

Effect of Apolactoferrin on Experimental Pneumococcal Otitis Media

2010-11-01

Objective To find the effect of apolactoferrin administration on the middle and inner ears after experimentally induced pneumococcal otitis media.

Design Histopathologic and morphometric analysis of the middle and inner ears.

Setting University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.

Subjects Ten chinchillas.

Interventions The middle ear cavities of chinchillas were inoculated bilaterally with type 2 wild-type Streptococcus pneumoniae. Twenty-four hours later, the ears of 5 of the animals were injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and the other 5 with human apolactoferrin. The animals were killed 24 hours after the last injection. Bacterial counts were made of the middle ear effusions, and the cochleae were processed for histologic analysis. The thickness of the round window membranes and bacterial and inflammatory cell infiltration of the round window membranes, and scala tympani and damage of the hair cells and stria vascularis were compared for these 2 groups of animals.

Main Outcome Measures Comparison of inflammatory and bacterial cells in the middle and inner ears, and damage to inner ear structures.

Results Bacterial plate counts of middle ear effusions (P = .005) and the number of inflammatory cells in the round window membrane (P = .047) were significantly lower in the apolactoferrin group compared with the group treated with PBS.

Conclusion Further investigation of apolactoferrin as a nonantibiotic approach for the treatment of otitis media and its complications is needed to confirm its safety and efficacy.

Complicated Grief and Associated Risk Factors Among Parents Following a Child's Death in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

2010-11-01

Objective To investigate the extent of complicated grief symptoms and associated risk factors among parents whose child died in a pediatric intensive care unit.

Design Cross-sectional survey conducted by mail and telephone.

Setting Seven children's hospitals affiliated with the Collaborative Pediatric Critical Care Research Network from January 1, 2006, to June 30, 2008.

Participants Two hundred sixty-one parents from 872 families whose child died in a pediatric intensive care unit 6 months earlier.

Main Exposure Assessment of potential risk factors, including demographic and clinical variables, and parent psychosocial characteristics, such as attachment style, caregiving style, grief avoidance, and social support.

Main Outcome Measure Parent report of complicated grief symptoms using the Inventory of Complicated Grief. Total scale range is from 0 to 76; scores of 30 or higher suggest complicated grief.

Results Mean (SD) Inventory of Complicated Grief scores among parents were 33.7 (14.1). Fifty-nine percent of parents (95% confidence interval, 53%-65%) had scores of 30 or higher. Variables independently associated with higher symptom scores in multivariable analysis included being the biological mother or female guardian, trauma as the cause of death, greater attachment-related anxiety and attachment-related avoidance, and greater grief avoidance.

Conclusions Parents who responded to our survey experienced a high level of complicated grief symptoms 6 months after their child's death in the pediatric intensive care unit. However, our estimate of the extent of complicated grief symptoms may be biased because of a high number of nonresponders. Better understanding of complicated grief and its risk factors among parents will allow those most vulnerable to receive professional bereavement support.

Women in Surgery: A Survey in Switzerland

2010-11-01

An increasing proportion of women work in medicine; however, only few choose surgical specialties. The objective of this study was to analyze the current situation of female surgeons and surgical residents in Switzerland concerning their personal and professional fulfillment. Of 318 female surgeons and surgical residents included in our study, 189 (59.4%) returned the anonymous questionnaire. Mentor-mentee relationships were mentioned by 110 (58.2%) of the 189 respondents. On the basis of a 7-point Likert scale, these women responded that they were moderately satisfied with their professional (mean score [SD], 2.7 [1.3]) and personal (mean score [SD], 3.0 [1.7]) lives. Of the 189 respondents, 113 (59.8%) mentioned that they felt underappreciated. The most important ways suggested for increasing the attractiveness of a surgical career for women were a reduction in workload (49 respondents [25.9%]), more flexible working hours (38 respondents [20.1%]), and better structured residency programs (23 respondents [12.2%]).

Serum Resistin Concentrations and Risk of New Onset Heart Failure in Older Persons: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study

2009-07-01

Objective— Resistin is associated with inflammation and insulin resistance and exerts direct effects on myocardial cells including hypertrophy and altered contraction. We investigated the association of serum resistin concentrations with risk for incident heart failure (HF) in humans.

Methods and Results— We studied 2902 older persons without prevalent HF (age, 73.6±2.9 years; 48.1% men; 58.8% white) enrolled in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study. Correlation between baseline serum resistin concentrations (20.3±10.0 ng/mL) and clinical variables, biochemistry panel, markers of inflammation and insulin resistance, adipocytokines, and measures of adiposity was weak (all rho <0.25). During a median follow-up of 9.4 years, 341 participants (11.8%) developed HF. Resistin was strongly associated with risk for incident HF in Cox proportional hazards models controlling for clinical variables, biomarkers, and measures of adiposity (HR, 1.15 per 10.0 ng/mL in adjusted model; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.27; P=0.003). Results were comparable across sex, race, diabetes mellitus, and prevalent and incident coronary heart disease subgroups. In participants with available left ventricular ejection fraction at HF diagnosis (265 of 341; 77.7%), association of resistin with HF risk was comparable for cases with reduced versus preserved ejection fraction.

Conclusions— Serum resistin concentrations are independently associated with risk for incident HF in older persons.

Change in Asia: a review of management theory and research related to human resources

2010-04-01

Many competing hypotheses have been advanced to account for human resource management (HRM) change. The present review examines the theoretical development and empirical study in HRM change in Asia in the early twenty-first century (2000-2006). Three research themes common to HRM change are discussed: (1) change context is about the issues of forces facilitating or hindering HRM change; (2) change process includes pace, sequence and magnitude of HRM change progress; and (3) change direction is about resultant change outcome. Comparisons of HRM change are made within Asian economies as well as between Asia and other regions. It is concluded that the interplay among different perspectives can produce a wide variety of more complex understanding of change context while a longitudinal approach can add value to explain dynamic process and resultant direction.

Management of Weeds of Rainfed Lowland Rice Using Cultivar Mixture Strategies

2011-06-01

The aim of this field study conducted in Calabar, Southeastern Nigeria was to investigate whether mixtures of rice cultivars with different characteristics and in varying proportions and deployment times could be effective in suppressing weed growth. Two lowland rice cultivars; Faro 15 (improved, semi-dwarf, profuse tillering, lodge-tolerant, early maturing),and Muduga (local, tall, lodging-susceptible ,medium maturing), were raised in nurseries and 24 day old seedlings transplanted, 2 seedlings per hill at 20x20 cm spacing. Treatments were factorial combinations of 2 planting proportions (Faro 15: Muduga at 4:1 and 3:2) and 5 times of introduction (Faro 15 introduced 2 weeks before, 1 week before, same day as, 1 week after and 2 weeks after-Muduga). The results indicate that in rainfed, low-input, lowland rice production systems, cultivar mixtures can improve the competitive ability of rice, reducing weed biomass production and diminishing rice biomass losses. Across both cultivars, the population of weeds was reduced by 39.7% when Faro 15 was introduced 2 weeks after Muduga in a 3:2 ratio, but the effect on weed biomass was not significant. The time of component cultivar introduction significantly affected the weed suppressive ability of the mixture and the best time depended on the grain preference of the farmer. On the basis of combined grain yield, introducing Muduga 1 or 2 weeks after Faro 15 gave the best results.

Studies on Social Monogamy in the Snapping Shrimp, Alpheus lobidens De Haan, 1849

2012-04-01

Alpheus lobidens De Haan, 1849, like many other snapping shrimp, is a socially monogamous species typically found in male-female pairs in burrows under rocks. We evaluated mate guarding (detection of female receptivity) and shared resource defense as factors that could have led to social monogamy in Iranian populations of this common intertidal species. Males within a pair did not move more pieces of gravel than females during burrow building. A shared resource defense experiment revealed that individuals within a pair did not differ significantly in their activity in repelling intruders.

Chemical Composition and Protein Degradability of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Seeds Cake grown in Western Sudan

2012-01-01

A study was conducted to estimate the chemical composition and crude protein degradability of whole seed, cake and pulp of watermelon seeds were grown in Kordofan state, western Sudan. Samples were collected from Kordofan crops market. Two fistulated steers were fed with green alfalfa during trial period. Approximate analysis was used to determine chemical composition. Whenever protein degradability was determined used in situ polyester bag technique. The individual sample was incubated in rumen for 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, 36 and 48 h. Significant different (p≤0.05) were observed in dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre and ash of whole seed, cake and pulp. This study revealed that watermelon seed cake had lower dry matter degradability than whole seed and pulp, respectively. Whereas, watermelon seed cake was higher (p≤0.05) in crude protein degradability following the pulp and whole seed in the first trial times but there was linear increase in protein disappearance of pulp with increase in period of incubation in rumen up to 48 h than cake and whole seed.

Evaluating a Numerical Model to Simulate the Variation of River Bed Due to a Mining Pit Based on Experimental Data

2012-03-01

One of the major problems in river engineering is the erosion of the bed river due to improper removal of sand and gravel from the river bed. Therefore, investigating the hydraulic condition of the river is necessary in order to prevent the bed erosion of the rivers. Nowadays, With respect to the limitations of laboratory models and economical problems, usage of numerical models in hydraulic engineering problems is growing. All numerical models make some form of approximations to solve the basic principles of conservation of mass, energy and momentum, which form the basis of fluid mechanics. In this paper, after explaining the destructive effects of mining an inappropriate pit in the bed river and giving a brief introduction about the physical model which is made for investigating the variation of bed profile due to a mining pit, the capability of a leading one-dimensional hydraulic engineering software (HEC-RAS) in modeling the bed variation of the experimental model is investigated. The simulation results were also compared to experimental data and the comparison showed a good agreement between simulated and experimental data. Therefore, this numerical model can be so useful to help solving the mining problem which will occur due to improper removal of sand and gravel from river’s bed.

Advanced Control Technique for Substrate Feed Rate Regulation of a Fed Batch Fermentation

2012-01-01

In this study, an advanced control technique for substrate feed rate regulation of fed batch fermentation is developed. It is reliable in dealing with possible variations in the process condition. In this study, neural network and fuzzy logic methods are used in the design. As a case study, the baker’s yeast production process is chosen to test these controllers. The evaluation of the performance of the designed controllers is carried out through computer simulation. To obtain a reliable assessment, the results are then compared with those of the PI controller. The results have shown that the proposed approaches can be successfully applied to regulate of fed-batch fermentation to improve the operation of such processes.

Anti-spermatogenic Activity of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Kuntze Root

2011-08-01

Butea monosperma is a commonly used plant in folk medicine in Indian subcontinent. The present investigation was undertaken to examine the anti-spermatogenic activity of the four successive extracts i.e., petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of the root of B. monosperma. The in vitro studies on human sperms revealed that the petroleum ether and chloroform extracts at the concentration of 15 mg mL^-1 caused significant immobilisation and reduction of sperm viability. The extracts caused irreversible damage to the sperms. Further, the effect of these extracts was assessed on the testis and epidydmis of the male albino mice at the dose of 200 mg kg^-1 body weight. A significant decrease in the weight and changes in fructose, alkaline phosphate, total protein and cholesterol level in these organs of the treated mice when compared to control mice was observed. Histological studies of these organs were also performed.

The Effects of Sawdust/poultry Litter and Brachiaria ruziziensis Silages on the Performance of West Africa Dwarf Goats

2011-06-01

This study was carried out in order to determine the effect of three test rations comprising Brachiaria ruziziensis grass silage and sawdust/poultry litter silage which replaced some conventional feed ingredients (wheat offal, soya bean cake and maize offal) at varying levels in the diets of goats. Twelve young West African dwarf does with mean ages and weights of 6±0.17 months and 4.2±0.44 kg, respectively, randomly divided into three groups of four replicates were used for the study which lasted for forty-five days. The animals were fed three test rations with sawdust/poultry litter silage replacing 50% (Diet 1), 25% (Diet 2) and 0% (Diet 3 or Control. In addition, all groups received Brachiaria ruziziensis grass silage at 5% inclusion level. Parameters measured include Production attributes, Haematology and serum biochemistry. Results showed that the haematological and serum biochemical parameters showed no significant differences (p>0.05) among groups. However, significant differences (p>0.05) existed in the production attributes with respect to mean final gain, mean daily gain, mean daily intake, mean total feed intake and apparent protein digestibility, feed conversion efficiency, but not in their rumen motility. Cost of production was significantly (p<0.05) lowest in diet 1 compared to diets 2 and 3, respectively. It was observed that sawdust/poultry litter silage was most beneficial at 25% inclusion level as animals fed this diet had significantly higher weight gain and better feed conversion efficiency compared to those of 50% and Control groups.

Major Shift in Understanding How Eczema Develops?

2011-01-01

Stem Cells for Treating Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease*

2010-01-01

On Development of Technical Analysis Based Portfolio Optimization Models

2011-01-01

It has always been a significant concern for scholars to model the complex state of stock markets in the way that traders’ satisfaction improves. However, still this field suggested the need for more accurate and comprehensive models. Development of such models is difficult because of the unpredictable economic, social and political variables that surely affect the market manners. However, model developers of the field have escaped the above referred complexities by some simplifying assumptions that have resulted in their less practicability in real world. In this study, subsequent to an introduction to the field of portfolio optimization and a literature review of the investment approach of Technical Analysis (TA), capabilities of TA in improving the present status of investment models and its potentiality to address the main challenges of the field are discussed. The present study also proposes the modular structure in which TA would suppose to be helpful.

The Use of Hartigan Index for Initializing K-Means++ in Detecting Similar Texts of Clustered Documents as a Plagiarism Indicator

2011-08-01

Plagiarism is increasingly alarming, especially if this happens in the field of education. Many writing works in which a part of the content is written by plagiarizing other people’s works. Similar sentence detection as a plagiarism indicator can be conducted by using n-gram based hashing algorithm of Winnowing algorithm. The function of Winnowing is to generate document fingerprint which convert texts within document into a collection of hash values. Similar fingerprint between documents shows that there are similar texts as a plagiarism indicator. Plagiarizing usually happens on documents having similar topics. Therefore, to detect plagiarism, documents having similar topics should be clustered. K-means++ is a clustering algorithm that requires cluster number as its input through recommendation conducted by Hartigan index to give a recommendation for the cluster number. After clustering documents, a comparison was made between document fingerprint and fingerprint cluster instead of between documents. Then, the comparison was made for documents which become members of the closest cluster that had been selected from the first comparison.

Optimizing Interactive Marketing in Digital Television Systems

2011-02-01

Interactive broadcasting elaborates the realization of novel next generation network technologies, able to provide multiple interactive multimedia and Internet based services, utilizing Digital Video Broadcasting advances. On the other hand, IP multimedia subsystem is a promising solution that may be adopted in next generation networks providing advanced capabilities and added value data services. In this context, this study investigates interactive broadcasting systems and IP multimedia subsystem convergence and proposes a novel research rationale which could be adopted towards optimizing interactive marketing. The proposed approach may enable for a more efficient process of collecting and analyzing feedback data from users/viewers. This process is vital for optimum marketing and advertising purposes, since potential information data, collected by utilizing sophisticated technologies, may be used effectively to target customers in a more efficient way.

Asian Science Citation Index

Psychiatric Residents' Self-Assessment of Teaching Knowledge and Skills Following a Brief "Psychiatric Residents-as-Teachers" Course: A Pilot Study

Effect of contamination of pasture with military explosives on grazing behaviour in shee

Cleaning heavy metal contaminated soil with soluble humic substances instead of synthetic polycarboxylic acids

Marginal stability analysis on salt-fingers convection with parabolic temperature and salinity profiles

Therapeutic effect of artemisinin on lupus nephritis mice and its mechanisms

Regulation of material properties in electrospun scaffolds: Role of cross-linking and fiber tertiary structure

Peer substance involvement modifies genetic influences on regular substance involvement in young women

Prevalence, frequency, and initiation of hookah tobacco smoking among first-year female college students: A one-year longitudinal study

Mental health v. mental illness: COMMENTARY ON ... ETHICS AND ECONOMICS

Quasi-biennial oscillation signals in outgoing long-wave radiation of the equator

Incidence of ischaemic stroke according to income level among older people: the 3C study

Extension services, product quality and yields: the case of grapes in Argentina

Studies on the Efficiency of Some Fungicide at Two-Row Spring Barley for Fighting Against Spot Blotch (Cochliobolus sativus Ito and Kurib) in the North-West Suceava Plateau

Seed Priming of Winter Annual Cover Crops Improves Germination and Emergence

Limited predictive ability of surrogate indices of insulin sensitivity/resistance in Asian-Indian men

Cardiovascular responses to microinjections of urocortins into the NTS: role of inotropic glutamate receptors

Isolation of murine lung endothelial cells

Swelling and pressure-volume relationships in the dermis measured by osmotic-stress technique

Electrohydraulic pump-driven closed-loop blood pressure-regulatory system

A New Measure of Alcohol Affordability for the UK

From Electioneering to Governing: Obama's Transition as Legitimation Ritual

Effect of Some Fermentation Parameters on Ethanol Production from Beet Molasses by Saccharomyces cerevisiae CAIM13

Multisensory Stimulation to Improve Functional Performance in Moderate to Severe Dementia--Interim Results

The Effect of Heat or Heat-Xylose Processing on Nitrogen Fractions and in Situ/In Vitro Ruminal and Post-Ruminal Protein Disappearance of Guar Meal

Field Programmable Gate Arrays Based Realization of Truncated Multipliers

Modeling Growth of Microalgae Dunaliella Salina under Different Nutritional Conditions

Hypoglycemic, Hypocholesterolemic and Ocular-protective Effects of an Aqueous Extract of the Rhizomes of Sansevieria senegambica Baker (Agavaceae) on Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats

Soy proteins and isoflavones affect bone mineral density in older women: a randomized controlled trial

In vitro Binding Chemistry of Amlodipine Besylate (Calcium Channel Blocker) and Atorvastatin Calcium (HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor) to Serum Albumin and their Mutual Effect to Displace Each Other from the Binding Site

Special Issue for the 6th International Conference on Applied Financial Economics, Samos, Greece, 2-4 July 2009

A Methodology for the Selection of Micro-Assembly Techniques

A Comparative Study on Safety and Security Management Systems in Industries

Finger Millet Polyphenols: Characterization and their Nutraceutical Potential

Reflections on the Under-Researched Topic of Grief in Persons With Dementia: A Report From a Symposium on Grief and Dementia

Relation of Serum and Semen Malondialdehyde and Total Anti-Oxidants with Sperm Parameters in Infertile Men

Immunity to Diphtheria in Haemodialysis Patients

Multiple Symptomatic Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations in a Patient with HIV

Anti-Arthritic Activity of the Methanolic Leaf Extract of Urtica pilulifera L. on Albino Rats

Phosphorylation of myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate is involved in the cAMP-dependent amylase release in parotid acinar cells

Effect of Sitosterol on Root Formation of Cotton Cuttings

Social Norm Processing in Adult Social Phobia: Atypically Increased Ventromedial Frontal Cortex Responsiveness to Unintentional (Embarrassing) Transgressions

Long-Term Quality of Life Assessment Among Patients Undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Ultrasound-Guided Axillary Brachial Plexus Block with 20 Milliliters Local Anesthetic Mixture Versus General Anesthesia for Upper Limb Trauma Surgery: An Observer-Blinded, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Trial

Revascularization Versus Medical Therapy for Renal Artery Stenosis: Antihypertensive Drugs and Renal Outcome

Should you eat your offspring before someone else does? Effect of an egg predator on filial cannibalism in the sand goby

High Concordance of Bovine Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotypes Generated Using Two Independent Genotyping Strategies

Uptake of aluminium into Arabidopsis root cells measured by fluorescent lifetime imaging

Cortisol measurement in patients receiving metyrapone therapy

Phase II study of 3-AP Triapine in patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Mode of action of abatacept in rheumatoid arthritis patients having failed tumour necrosis factor blockade: a histological, gene expression and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging pilot study

In Vitro and In Vivo Validation of ligA and tarI as Essential Targets in Staphylococcus aureus

Transposable Element Loads in a Bacterial Symbiont of Weevils Are Extremely Variable

Paper-structured fiber composites impregnated with platinum nanoparticles synthesized on a carbon fiber matrix for catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides

Gold and oil futures markets: Are markets efficient?

Water geochemistry of the Xijiang basin rivers, South China: Chemical weathering and CO2 consumption

Inverse problem for the reaction diffusion system by optimization method

Multivariate Bell polynomials and their applications to powers and fractionary iterates of vector power series and to partial derivatives of composite vector functions

EPR analysis of the effects of accelerated carbon ion and fast neutron irradiations on table sugar

Speedy photoelectric exchange of CdSe quantum dots/mesoporous titania composite system

Effect of Echinacea purpurea on growth and survival of guppy (Poecilia reticulata) challenged with Aeromonas bestiarum

Specific Nail Alterations in Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: Successful Treatment With Topical Mechlorethamine

Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome: a cause of extreme macrocephaly and neurodevelopmental delay

Laterobasal Amygdalar Enlargement in 6- to 7-Year-Old Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Testing for the Presence of Positive-Outcome Bias in Peer Review: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Special Considerations for Pars Plana Tube-Shunt Placement in Boston Type 1 Keratoprosthesis

Effect of Apolactoferrin on Experimental Pneumococcal Otitis Media

Complicated Grief and Associated Risk Factors Among Parents Following a Child's Death in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

Women in Surgery: A Survey in Switzerland

Serum Resistin Concentrations and Risk of New Onset Heart Failure in Older Persons: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition (Health ABC) Study

Change in Asia: a review of management theory and research related to human resources

Management of Weeds of Rainfed Lowland Rice Using Cultivar Mixture Strategies

Studies on Social Monogamy in the Snapping Shrimp, Alpheus lobidens De Haan, 1849

Chemical Composition and Protein Degradability of Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Seeds Cake grown in Western Sudan

Evaluating a Numerical Model to Simulate the Variation of River Bed Due to a Mining Pit Based on Experimental Data

Advanced Control Technique for Substrate Feed Rate Regulation of a Fed Batch Fermentation

Anti-spermatogenic Activity of Butea monosperma (Lam.) Kuntze Root

The Effects of Sawdust/poultry Litter and Brachiaria ruziziensis Silages on the Performance of West Africa Dwarf Goats

Major Shift in Understanding How Eczema Develops?

Stem Cells for Treating Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease*

Special Issue for the 6^th International Conference on Applied Financial Economics, Samos, Greece, 2-4 July 2009

Water geochemistry of the Xijiang basin rivers, South China: Chemical weathering and CO₂ consumption