bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Prenatal Renal Anomalies Associated with Mutations in HNF1B or PAX2 Genes
Authors: Madariaga Leire , Morinière Vincent , Jeanpierre Cécile , Bouvier Raymonde , Loget Philippe , Martinovic Jelena , Dechelotte Pierre , Leporrier Nathalie , Thauvin-Robinet Christel , Jensen Uffe Birk , Gaillard Dominique , Mathieu Michele , Turlin Bruno , Attie-Bitach Tania , Salomon Rémi , Gübler Marie-Claire , Antignac Corinne , Heidet Laurence
Published: March 2013

Background and objectives

Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are a frequent cause of renal failure in children, and their detection in utero is now common with fetal screening ultrasonography. The clinical course of CAKUT detected before birth is very heterogeneous and depends on the level of nephron reduction. The most severe forms cause life-threatening renal failure, leading to perinatal death or the need for very early renal replacement therapy.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This study reports the screening of two genes (HNF1B and PAX2) involved in monogenic syndromic CAKUT in a cohort of 103 fetuses from 91 families with very severe CAKUT that appeared isolated by fetal ultrasound examination and led to termination of pregnancy.

Results

This study identified a disease-causing mutation in HNF1B in 12 cases from 11 families and a mutation in PAX2 in 4 unrelated cases. Various renal phenotypes were observed, but no case of bilateral agenesis was associated with HNF1B or PAX2 mutations. Autopsy identified extrarenal abnormalities not detected by ultrasonography in eight cases but confirmed the absence of extrarenal defects in eight other cases. A positive family history of renal disease was not significantly more frequent in cases with an identified mutation. Moreover, in cases with an inherited mutation, there was a great phenotypic variability regarding the severity of the renal disease within a single family.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that mutations in genes involved in syndromic CAKUT with Mendelian inheritance are not rare in fetal cases with severe CAKUT appearing isolated at prenatal ultrasound, a finding of clinical importance because of genetic counseling.
Adverse Drug Events during AKI and Its Recovery
Authors: Cox Zachary L. , McCoy Allison B. , Matheny Michael E. , Bhave Gautam , Peterson Neeraja B. , Siew Edward D. , Lewis Julia , Danciu Ioana , Bian Aihua , Shintani Ayumi , Ikizler T. Alp , Neal Erin B. , Peterson Josh F.
Published: March 2013

Background and objectives

The impact of AKI on adverse drug events and therapeutic failures and the medication errors leading to these events have not been well described.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A single-center observational study of 396 hospitalized patients with a minimum 0.5 mg/dl change in serum creatinine who were prescribed a nephrotoxic or renally eliminated medication was conducted. The population was stratified into two groups by the direction of their initial serum creatinine change: AKI and AKI recovery. Adverse drug events, potential adverse drug events, therapeutic failures, and potential therapeutic failures for 148 drugs and 46 outcomes were retrospectively measured. Events were classified for preventability and severity by expert adjudication. Multivariable analysis identified medication classes predisposing AKI patients to adverse drug events.

Results

Forty-three percent of patients experienced a potential adverse drug event, adverse drug event, therapeutic failure, or potential therapeutic failure; 66% of study events were preventable. Failure to adjust for kidney function (63%) and use of nephrotoxic medications during AKI (28%) were the most common potential adverse drug events. Worsening AKI and hypotension were the most common preventable adverse drug events. Most adverse drug events were considered serious (63%) or life-threatening (31%), with one fatal adverse drug event. Among AKI patients, administration of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, antibiotics, and antithrombotics was most strongly associated with the development of an adverse drug event or potential adverse drug event.

Conclusions

Adverse drug events and potential therapeutic failures are common and frequently severe in patients with AKI exposed to nephrotoxic or renally eliminated medications.
Investigation of Ni and Cd electrokinetic removal from a sediment
Authors: Rajic Ljiljana , Dalmacija Bozo , Ugarcina-Perovic Svetlana
Published: March 2013

In this paper we examine the efficacy of the enhanced electrokinetic
remediation of a sediment from the Tamis River contaminated with Ni and Cd.
The moving anode technique and an increased cathodic compartment length were
simultaneously used to enhance the technique. The removal efficacy increase
appeared after the enhanced treatment for Ni (23%) and Cd (73%). The
increased cathodic compartment length successfully prevented OH- ions
migration in the sediment. Finally, sediment classification according to
different risk assessment methodologies indicates that further remediation is
required even after the enhanced treatment. Here we indicate that enhanced
electroremediation resulted in the removal of efficacy increase but it is
highly influenced by sediment characteristics.
Effects of elevated salinity of the growing medium on rhizome essential oil yield and fatty acid composition of Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae)
Authors: Pal Mahesh , Singh Shweta , Kumar Anil , Tewari Krishan
Published: March 2013

This study was aimed at the examination of the effects of increased salinity
of growing medium on the fatty acid composition and yield of rhizome
essential oil of Curcuma longa L. The analyses (gas chromatography and gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry) of the transesterified petroleum ether
extract of rhizomes grown under non-saline conditions (0.0 mM NaCl; control)
showed that the dominant fatty acids were oleic (48.6%), myristic (15.0%),
linoleic (7.9%), palmitic (6.8%) and linolenic (2.4%). Increased growth
medium salinity (25.0, 50.0 and 75.0 mM NaCl) provoked significant changes in
the relative amounts of some acids. Increase of NaCl concentration caused an
increase in the amount of linoleic and linolenic acids, but had the opposite
or no effect on myristic and oleic acids quantity. The yield of the essential
oil obtained from fresh control rhizome (non-saline conditions) was 1.7%.
When C. longa was grown in a low-salinity medium (25.0 mM NaCl), the oil
yield remained the same. However, under high salinity conditions the yield
reached 2.9% (50.0 mM NaCl), i.e. 3.1% (75.0 mM NaCl). Our results clearly
show that the studied plant species is susceptible to high salinity induced
stress.
Experimental investigation of operating and dynamic properties of adsorption filter prototype
Authors: Raos Miomir , Zivkovic Ljiljana , Djordjevic Amelija , Radosavljevic Jasmina , Mihajlovic Emina
Published: March 2013

The aim of the paper is an examination of flow-thermal, operating and dynamic
properties (velocities of gas mixture, flows, pressure drops, temperature,
humidity, chemical pollutants tests, and efficiency) and performance of the
adsorption filter prototype in the filter-ventilation system. The paper
presents the results of the experimental research conducted on the original
apparatus in the laboratory for air quality management at the Faculty of
Occupational Safety in Nis. The examination of flow-thermal, operating and
dynamic parameters of the observed filter prototype was carried out on an
experimental ventilation setup with a variable flow rate of gas mixture.
Experimental data were registered with appropriate measuring equipment, which
helped us obtain a picture of the behavior of the adsorption filter prototype
compared to simulated parameters of the gas mixture. By measuring and data
acquisition, we reached the assumptions for identifying the observed process,
and thus the possibility of modeling and controlling process parameters.
High antioxidative potential and low toxic effects of selenosemicarbazone metal complexes
Authors: Dekanski Dragana , Todorovic Tamara , Mitic Dragana , Filipovic Nenad , Polovic Natalija , Andjelkovic Katarina
Published: March 2013

Novel metal-based compounds with therapeutic potential became the subject of
intense investigation in inorganic chemistry and biomedical science.
Recently, strong dose-dependent cytotoxic activity against several human
cancer cell lines of selenosemicarbazone metal complexes was demonstrated.
The aim of the present study was to investigate in vitro antioxidative
potential of Ni(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) selenosemicarbazone complexes. All
three investigated complexes exhibited high ABTS radical scavenging capacity,
comparable with ascorbic acid. In the acute toxicity study, administration of
the compounds was performed orally to the mice at the single doses and they
were observed for clinical signs, body weight effects, and mortality for 14
days after which they were sacrificed for gross organ necropsy. Body weight
did not vary after administration, and the autoptic analysis failed to show
appreciable macroscopic alterations of internal organs. Generally, the
compounds exhibited low toxic effects as required for further in vivo
therapeutic studies.
Long-term outcome of a modified balloon dilatation in the treatment of patients with achalasia
Authors: Doder Radoje , Perisic Nenad , Tomasevic Ratko , Mirkovic Darko , Jankovic Zoran , Djordjevic Zoran
Published: March 2013

Background/Aim. Balloon dilatation is a standard approach to the initial
achalasia treatment. Modified dilatation is also applied to rise efficacy and
to lower complications. Methods. A total of 57 patients were analysed within
a median follow-up of 8.2 years. No premedication was used, dilatation was
performed up to the pain treshold, while introduction and positioning of a
dilatator was done in combination of endoscopic and radiological control.
Dilatation effect was estimated by both Kim Symptom Scoring and objective
parameters: body weight rise and radiological scintigraphic findings.
Results. Excellent and good results were obtained in 50 (88%) of the
patients, while in 7 (12%) of the patients surgery was performed. There was
no difference in dilatation efficacy regarding sex of the patients, but the
results were better in the patients above 40 years. Duration of symptoms,
body weight loss, esophageal lumen width do not indicate the definitive
dilatation outcome. Esophageal scintigraphy and body weight increase were in
a direct correlation with the effect of dilatation measured with the Kim
Symptom Scoring. After the one to two repeated dilatations the efficacy
increased from 74% to 88% justifying the repetition of dilatation. In 2
(3.57%) of the patients, that is in 2.65% of the totally dilated patients,
perforation was recorded. There was no lethal outcome of dilatation, and the
other complications were not clinically significant. Conclusion. Modified
balloon dilatation can be recommended for initial method in achalasia
treatment due to high efficacy, easy performance in daily hospital while
complications are in standard range.
Rare locations of metastastatic renal cell carcinoma: Presentation of three cases
Authors: Milovic Novak , Lazic Miodrag , Aleksic Predrag , Radovanovic Dragan , Bancevic Vladimir , Savic Slavisa , Stamenkovic Dusica , Spasic Dusan , Kosevic Branko , Perovic Dragoljub , Jovanovic Mirko
Published: March 2013

Introduction. Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) frequently spreads not
only to neighboring lymph nodes, but also to distant organs, including the
lungs, liver, bones and brain. Case report. We presented three cases of RCC
with colon metastasis. In the first, 63-year-old patient, after left
nephrectomy followed with lyphadenectomy in paraaortic lymph node, left
hemicolectomy was done due to RCC metastasis in rectosigmoid colon. In the
second, 35-year-old patient, left radical nephrectomy was followed two years
later with partial right nephrectomy, lung metastasectomy, small bowel and
coecum resection and right orchiectomy all as separate procedures in
different time intervals. The patient died from brain and bone metastases
two years after the first surgery. The third, 35-year-old patient, had right
nephrectomy followed by repeted lymphadenectomies after 6, 12 and 24 months.
Four years later RCC spreaded to coecum and right hemicolectomy was
performed. Conclusion. RCC treated with nephrectomy should be carefully
followed up with imaging methods as a proper treatment of RCC metastases to
distant organs could be important for a patient survival.
Cardiovascular effects of resveratrol
Authors: Gojkovic-Bukarica Ljiljana , Protic Dragana , Kanjuh Vladimir , Heinle Helmut , Novakovic Radmila , Scepanovic Radisav
Published: March 2013

nema
The effects of acclimatization on blood clotting parameters in exertional heat stress
Authors: Vesic Zoran , Vukasinovic-Vesic Milica , Dincic Dragan , Surbatovic Maja , Radakovic Sonja
Published: March 2013

Background/Aim. Exertional heat stress is a common problem in military
services. Considering the coagulation abnormalities are of major importance
in development of severe heat stroke, we wanted to examine changes in
hemostatic parameters in soldiers during exertional heat stress test as well
as the effects of a 10-day passive or active acclimatization in a climatic
chamber. Methods. A total of 40 male soldiers with high aerobic capacity
performed exertional heat stress test (EHST) either in cool [20?C, 16?C wet
bulb globe temperature (WBGT)], or hot (40?C, 29?C, (WBGT) environment,
unacclimatized (U) or after 10 days of passive (P) or active (A)
acclimatization. Physiological strain was measured by tympanic temperatures
(Tty) and heart rates (HR). Platelet count (PC), antithrombin III (AT), and
prothrombin time (PT) were assessed in blood samples collected before and
immediately after the EHST. Results. EHST in hot conditions induced
physiological heat stress (increase in Tty and HR), with a significant
increase in prothrombin time in the groups U and A. Platelet counts were
significantly higher after the EHST compared to the basic levels in all the
investigated groups, regardless environmental conditions and acclimatization
state. Antithrombin levels were not affected by EHST whatsoever. Conclusion.
In the trained soldiers, physiological heat stress caused mild changes in
some serum parameters of blood clotting such as prothrombin time, while
others such as antithrombin levels were not affected. Platelet counts were
increased after EHST in all groups. A 10-day passive or active
acclimatization in climatic chamber showed no effect on parameters
investigated.
A Model of Individual Accounting Faculty Salaries
Authors: Almer Elizabeth Dreike , Bertolini Michelle , Higgs Julia L.
Published: March 2013

While much has been written about how to successfully manage an academic accounting career, to date, research has not considered how accounting academics can manage their career to impact their salary. The current study utilizes publicly available individual salary information for over 1,200 tenure-track faculty at over 100 of the largest accounting programs in U.S. public universities. Using this salary data, we create a model of accounting faculty salary using individual and institutional variables for top-ranked doctoral, other doctoral, and non-doctoral programs.

Our results offer additional insights into accredited public university accounting faculty salaries beyond the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) publications, which aggregate by public/private schools and accredited/non-accredited programs.

We find that Brigham Young University (BYU) 20 faculty research ranking, a financial teaching/research emphasis, being a department chair, and having a named business school can be positively associated with salary, although the specific influence varies by type of program. There is generally a U-shaped relationship between salary and academic rank, but a negative relationship with length of employment at an institution and cost of living. A systems teaching/research emphasis is negatively associated with salary at other doctoral programs. We do not find that salary is associated with gender.
Survey of Ghodaghodi Lake Complex for Cotton Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus and Marsh Mugger Crocodylus palustris
Authors: Khatri Top Bahadur , Baral Hem Sagar
Published: March 2013

Ghodaghodi lake complex is a Ramsar Site and also an important bird area. It forms an important wildlife corridor between terai and Siwaliks and between the two protected areas of the western lowland Nepal, Bardia National Park and Sukla Phanta Wildlife Reserve. A variety of wildlife has been recorded in the area including 140 species of birds, 34 species of mammals, 9 species of herpetofauna, 29 species of fish and several varieties of plant species. Past data shows that the site had 1% south Asian population of Cotton Pygmy Goose Nettapus coromandelianus and presence of Marsh Mugger Crocodylus palustris. Current survey targeted to these two indicator species has shown that Cotton Pygmy Goose has declined by 70% and Marsh Muggers with no clear trend of decline or increase. Hunting and disturbance, encroachment, habitat alteration are identified as major threats to the area. Recommendations are made for habitat management, education and awareness, scientific and participatory monitoring of lake biodiversity with birds and crocodiles as the indicator species, strengthening and capacity building of local CBOs, formation of district level coordination body and to provide a special category status for the GLA.
Upper-Limb Assessment in People with Parkinson Disease: Is It a Priority for Therapists, and Which Assessment Tools Are Used?
Authors: Proud Elizabeth L. , Miller Kimberly J. , Martin Clarissa L. , Morris Meg E.
Published: March 2013

Purpose: To investigate the frequency of physiotherapy and occupational therapy assessment of the upper limb (UL) in people with Parkinson disease (PD) and to identify the impairments and activity limitations assessed and the methods used. Method: A custom-designed questionnaire was used to survey physiotherapists and occupational therapists with previous experience in managing people with PD, using targeted recruitment to invite physiotherapy conference attendees, clinicians employed in movement disorders programmes, and practitioners in neurology and gerontology to respond either on paper or online. Results: Of the 190 respondents (122 physiotherapists, 68 occupational therapists), 54% reported consistently assessing the UL. A majority (>60%) assessed impairments specific to PD, but few quantified these using standardized measures. Activity limitations, largely relating to manual dexterity, were assessed using observational analysis (61%), non-standardized timed activities (46%), and standardized outcome measures (61%), most generic or developed for evaluating other neurological conditions. More than 10% of respondents could not identify an appropriate standardized measure. Conclusions: Slightly more than half of respondents regularly assessed the UL. Respondents reported widespread use of non-standardized methods to assess PD-specific impairments. Standardized measures were more frequently used to evaluate activity limitations, but despite the unique movement disorders associated with PD, the clinimetric properties of most of the tools identified have not been established in this population. Education and further clinimetric investigation of measures in use are needed to facilitate evidence-based practice in this area.
Infarction of the lateral posterior choroidal artery territory after manipulation of the choroid plexus at the atrium: causal association with subependymal artery injury
Authors: Saito Ryuta , Kumabe Toshihiro , Sonoda Yukihiko , Kanamori Masayuki , Mugikura Shunji , Takahashi Shoki , Tominaga Teiji
Published: March 2013

Object

The atrium of the lateral ventricle is often affected by tumors, and some patients with these tumors suffer neurological deficits, including hemiparesis after surgery. The authors of this study investigated the possible mechanisms causing the relatively high incidences of ischemic complications associated with surgery approaching the atrium of the lateral ventricle.

Methods

Clinical records and radiological images of 28 patients were retrospectively studied. These patients had their lateral ventricles opened at the atrium during the resection of gliomas as well as other nonbenign brain tumors, and were treated for gliomas at our tertiary referral center in the Tohoku district, Japan, between January 2008 and December 2010.

Results

Routine postoperative diffusion-weighted MR images obtained within 72 hours after surgery detected infarction in the periatrial/periventricular regions in 7 patients, presumably corresponding to the lateral posterior choroidal artery (LPChA) territory. Five of these 7 patients suffered neurological sequelae with varying severities. The choroid plexus at the atrium was coagulated to achieve hemostasis during the surgery in all of these patients. Detailed analysis of microangiograms revealed ventriculofugal arteries arising from the lateral ventricle. Damage of the subependymal artery that supplies the ventriculofugal arteries caused by coagulation of the choroid plexus at the atrium probably resulted in the infarction in these patients.

Conclusions

Neurosurgeons must be aware of the possibility of LPChA territory infarction during surgery in the atrial or periatrial regions caused by subependymal artery obstruction after manipulating or coagulating the choroid plexus near the atrium.
Detection of β-amyloid oligomers as a predictor of neurological outcome after brain injury
Authors: Gatson Joshua Wayne , Warren Victoria , Abdelfattah Kareem , Wolf Steven , Hynan Linda S. , Moore Carol , Diaz-Arrastia Ramon , Minei Joseph P. , Madden Christopher , Wigginton Jane G.
Published: March 2013

Object

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known to be a risk factor for Alzheimer-like dementia. In previous studies, an increase in β-amyloid (Aβ) monomers, such as β-amyloid 42 (Aβ42), in the CSF of patients with TBI has been shown to correlate with a decrease in amyloid plaques in the brain and improved neurological outcomes. In this study, the authors hypothesized that the levels of toxic high-molecular-weight β-amyloid oligomers are increased in the brain and are detectable within the CSF of TBI patients with poor neurological outcomes.

Methods

Samples of CSF were collected from 18 patients with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale Scores 3–8) and a ventriculostomy. In all cases the CSF was collected within 72 hours of injury. The CSF levels of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and Aβ42 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of high-molecular-weight β-amyloid oligomers were measured using Western blot analysis.

Results

Patients with good outcomes showed an increase in the levels of CSF Aβ42 (p = 0.003). Those with bad outcomes exhibited an increase in CSF levels of β-amyloid oligomers (p = 0.009) and NSE (p = 0.001). In addition, the CSF oligomer levels correlated with the scores on the extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (r = −0.89, p = 0.0001), disability rating scale scores (r = 0.77, p = 0.005), CSF Aβ42 levels (r = −0.42, p = 0.12), and CSF NSE levels (r = 0.70, p = 0.004). Additionally, the receiver operating characteristic curve yielded an area under the curve for β-amyloid oligomers of 0.8750 ± 0.09.

Conclusions

Detection of β-amyloid oligomers may someday become a useful clinical tool for determining injury severity and neurological outcomes in patients with TBI.
Ophthalmic vein compression for selected benign low-flow cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas
Authors: Cruz Juan Pablo , van Dijk Rene , Krings Timo , Agid Ronit
Published: March 2013

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) of the cavernous sinus are acquired arteriovenous shunts between the dural branches of the internal and external carotid arteries and the cavernous sinus. These fistulas may present with cortical venous reflux, but more commonly drain antegradely toward the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV). Transvenous embolization is the most common endovascular treatment, but in some cases transvenous access to the compartment of the shunt may not be possible. In cases with no corticovenous reflux, manual compression of the SOV is an excellent alternative treatment, which is well known but rarely reported in the literature. The authors describe a series of 3 cavernous DAVFs with anterior drainage treated successfully by intermittent manual compression of the SOV.
Role of magnetic resonance ventriculography in multiloculated hydrocephalus
Authors: Gandhoke Gurpreet S. , Frassanito Paolo , Chandra Nagesh , Ojha Bal K. , Singh Anoop
Published: March 2013

Object

In this paper the authors' goal was to investigate the clinical usefulness of Gd-enhanced MR ventriculography (MRV) in pediatric patients affected by multiloculated hydrocephalus.

Methods

Eighteen patients (11 boys and 7 girls, age range 2–14 months) with a diagnosis of multiloculated hydrocephalus were included in the study. After injection of gadodiamide (0.02–0.04 mmol) into the lateral ventricle by tapping the anterior fontanel, sagittal, coronal, and axial T1-weighted MR images were acquired. The location of the septations and the sites of obstruction of CSF flow were assessed. Postoperative MRV was obtained to confirm the results of endoscopic treatment in most complex cases.

Results

No adverse events were observed after injection of contrast medium into the ventricular system. Preoperative MRV accurately defined the exact morphology of septae and ventricular walls in all cases. In 1 case the diagnosis of multiloculated hydrocephalus was ruled out. Sites of obstruction of CSF flow within the ventricular system were also well established. In 4 cases the multiple compartments were proven to intercommunicate. Postoperative MRV was useful in assessing the functional status of third ventriculostomy, aqueductoplasty, and other endoscopic fenestrations.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance ventriculography is a safe, effective, and reliable technique. The accurate definition of the anatomy of the ventricles and the site of obstruction in multiloculated hydrocephalus can help to plan the most appropriate treatment and minimize the number of procedures. Although MRV is also useful during postoperative follow-up to determine the results of endoscopic treatment, it should be limited to particularly complex cases, due to its invasiveness.
High‐Resolution Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotyping Reveals a Significant Problem among Breeder Resources
Authors: Lucas Mitchell R. , Huynh Bao‐Lam , Ehlers Jeffery D. , Roberts Philip A. , Close Timothy J.
Published: March 2013

The logistics associated with a modern breeding program can be complex, relying on accuracy and communication between plant breeders, pathologists, quantitative geneticists, and support staff. International and academic facets may bring additional challenges to already error prone activities including the development, maintenance, and distribution of lines. Furthermore, practices such as bulking of seed and the maintenance of within‐accession variation among landraces must be considered when pursuing marker‐assisted approaches to breeding.
Réforme française de l'allocation dépendance et gestion départementale
Authors: Frinault Thomas
Published: March 2013

Échappant à l’alternative entre convergence et résilience des régimes providentiels, la réforme française de l’allocation dépendance trace une voie de réforme inédite et irréductible. Élaborée à la croisée des enjeux de protection sociale et de décentralisation, cette réforme requiert l’étude des influences réciproques entre les enjeux inhérents à la solidarité et ceux relatifs au Département. D’un côté, la réforme dépendance renforce l’emprise d’un « département providence » dont l’action déborde de plus en plus le cadre traditionnel d’intervention de l’Aide sociale. De l’autre côté, la préservation de l’héritage décentralisateur, valorisant une gestion de proximité moins administrative, correspond aussi à une stratégie de délestage de compétences inflationnistes sur les gouvernements locaux. L’instrumentalisation financière représente ainsi le prix à payer par les départements pour préserver leur existence.
Normes transnationales de développement durable
Authors: Fouilleux Ève
Published: March 2013

Les initiatives en réponse aux effets sociaux et environnementaux négatifs de la globalisation se multiplient. Au niveau transnational, des instruments basés sur le marché – standards volontaires durables – prolifèrent depuis la fin des années 1990, lancés en collaboration entre ONG, industries et producteurs, pour plus de durabilité des filières d’exportation de matières premières depuis les pays en développement vers les pays industrialisés (textile, mines, forêt, pêche, agriculture). Leur caractéristique principale est la nature inclusive et participative (multi parties prenantes) des structures de gouvernance qui les produisent. À partir du cas de l’agriculture (table ronde pour un soja responsable, table ronde pour l’huile de palme durable), cet article analyse le processus de privatisation de la régulation et de la délibération à l’œuvre via ces initiatives et s’interroge sur les garanties apportées en terme d’équité de la représentation et d’influence sur les décisions, et donc en terme de légitimité de ces dispositifs.
In vitro assessment of functional properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from faecal microbiota of healthy dogs for potential use as probiotics
Authors: Silva B.C. , Jung L.R.C. , Sandes S.H.C. , Alvim L.B. , Bomfim M.R.Q. , Nicoli J.R. , Neumann E. , Nunes A.C.
Published: March 2013

Lactic acid bacteria were isolated and identified in the faeces of Chinese Crested and Yorkshire terrier pups and their probiotic features were investigated in vitro. Thirty seven isolates were identified as Lactobacillus or Enterococcus. Out of these isolates, 31 were lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and belonged to the species Lactobacillus reuteri (16/37; 43.3%), Lactobacillus animalis (7/37; 18.9%), Lactobacillus acidophilus (3/37; 8.1%), Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis (2/37; 5.4%), Lactobacillus murinus (2/37; 5.4%), and Lactobacillus paraplantarum (1/37; 2.7%), while six other LAB isolates were Enterococcus spp. (6/37; 16.2%). Strains were tested for resistance to gastric acidity (pH 2.5 for 3 h) and bile salts (0.3% ox gall), cell surface hydrophobicity by microbial adhesion to solvents, antagonism against pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and Listeria monocytogenes), production of hydrogen peroxide, and antibiotic susceptibility. Thirty four strains were highly resistant to acidic conditions with slight (18 strains) to moderate (16 strains) growth inhibition by bile salts. Seven isolates had highly hydrophobic cellular surfaces and 28 strains exhibited strong antagonism against the bacterial pathogens tested, although 8 isolates tested against Leptospira interrogans had no effect on pathogen growth. All isolates produced low rates of hydrogen peroxide. Based on these results, two Lactobacillus strains showed promising probiotic-related features and merit investigation as probiotics for dogs.
Eight Novel Microsatellite Loci Developed from Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp
Authors: Deiner Kristy , Hull Joshua M. , May Bernie
Published: March 2013

We developed primer sets for eight di-, tri-, and tetranucleotide microsatellite loci for the threatened vernal pool fairy shrimp Branchinecta lynchi from CA, CAA, ATG, CAGA, and TAGA enriched genomic libraries. We tested primers in 74 individuals of B. lynchi from California, as well as 19 individuals from six other Branchinecta species: B. coloradensis, B. constricta, B. dissimilis, B. lindahli, B. mesovalensis, and B. oriena. The eight loci showed sufficient variability for investigations of B. lynchi evolution, population structure, and genetic diversity and may provide a new tool for assisting in delineation of management areas.
Implant Surface Factors and Bacterial Adhesion: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Yeo In-Sung , Kim Ha-Young , Lim Kyung Sub , Han Jung-Suk
Published: March 2013

The microbiota that forms on implant surfaces placed in the human body can be highly resistant to antimicrobial agents and in some cases cause life-threatening infections. Consequently, to limit bacterial attachment to these surfaces and thereby minimize the risk of implant infection, the process of biofilm formation and bacterial attachment must be well-understood. The oral environment is considered to be an excellent model for research into biofilm formation and implant infection, accounting for many studies carried out in the field of dental medicine. Those studies show that the roughness, free energy, and material characteristics of the implant surface largely determine initial bacterial adhesion. This article reviews the relevant literature on these aspects of biofilm formation.
Bioproduction of Natural Isoamyl Esters from Coconut Cream as Catalysed by Lipases
Authors: Liu Shao Quan , Lee Huey Yie , Yu Bin , Curran Philip , Sun Jingcan
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the bioproduction of isoamyl esters in coconut cream by lipases. Five lipases (palatase 20000 L, lipase AYS “Amano”, lipase A “Amano” 12, piccantase A and piccantase AN) were used to biosynthesize isoamyl esters in coconut cream supplemented with isoamyl alcohol. The lipases have different abilities to synthesize isoamyl esters with lipase AYS “Amano”, palatase 20000 L and piccantase A showing the highest potential. Bioproduction of isoamyl octanoate by palatase 20000 L was further examined under different conditions of temperature, pH, isoamyl alcohol concentration and lipase amount. Biosynthesis of isoamyl octanoate by palatase was not significantly affected at 30-50°C or pH of 4 to 7 and its maximum bioproduction was obtained at isoamyl alcohol concentration of 4% (v/v) and lipase amount of 6 mg 100 mL-1 reaction mixture. The lipase-treated coconut cream may serve as a bioflavouring ingredient for food applications or for extraction of pure aroma chemicals.
Common fixed points for generalized asymptotically nonexpansive mappings
Authors: Chandok Sumit , Narang T. D.
Published: March 2013

A common fixed point theorem for noncommuting generalized asymptotically nonexpansive mappings has been obtained in convex metric spaces. As an application, a result on the set of best approximation is also derived for such class of mappings. The proved results unify and extend some of the known results on the subject.
A new class of analytic functions defined by convolution with varying argument
Authors: Hai Li Shu , Huo Tang , Yu Yang Jing
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we introduce a new class of analytic functions defined by convolution with varying argument and provide convolution properties and integral means inequalities for functions belonging to this new class. Some of our results generalize previously known results.
On some Hermite-Hadamard type inequalities for twice differentiable mappings and applications
Authors: Kirmaci U. S. , Dikici R.
Published: March 2013

Some inequalities for twice differentiable mappings are presented. Some applications to special means of real numbers are also given.
Influence of Carbon Fiber Addition in Physical-Thermal Properties of Composites Obtained by RTM
Authors: Montoro Sergio Roberto , Paula Isabelle Catarina de , Brocks Thatiane , Bandeira Cirlene Fourquet , Voorwald Herman Jacobus Cornelis , Cioffi Maria Odila Hilário
Published: March 2013

This work aims to study the influence of carbon fibers addition in physical-chemical properties of bicomponent epoxy resin, produced by POLIPOX, in a composite obtained by RTM. Thermal analyses (DSC (Differential Scannig Calorimetry), TGA (Thermal Gravimetric Analysis) and DMA (Dynamic-mechanical Analysis) were performed in order to compare the results and observe the reinforcement influence on the resin properties. Increased glass transition values and degradation temperatures show that fibers cause a reduction in the molecular motion of polymer chains.
Optimization of Process Parameters for Generation of Nanocellular Polymer Foams
Authors: Bhattacharya Subhendu , Gupta Rahul , Bhattacharya Sati N.
Published: March 2013

High melt strength polypropylene nanocomposites, PPNC/Cloisite 20A (clay) with exfoliated and intercalated morphologies were prepared and subsequently foamed in a batch setup under different foaming conditions. The foaming parameters were varied to relate the foam cell structure to these parameters and determine the efficiency of clay in producing fine cell foams. A Box Benkhen design approach was used initially to determine the effect of processing parameters on foam cell morphology and also to perform optimization studies. The optimization process helped in identifying the range of operating conditions needed to minimize foam cell sizes. Saturation pressure and temperature and foaming time and temperature are the four processing variables used in these studies. Nanocellular foam cells were effectively generated for the first time in Polypropylene nanocomposites.
Optical Spectral Fingerprints of Tissues from Patients with Different Breast Cancer Histologies Using a Novel Fluorescence Spectroscopic Device
Authors: Sordillo Laura A. , Pu Yang , Sordillo Peter P. , Budansky Yury , Alfano R. R.
Published: March 2013

The fluorescence of paired human breast malignant and normal tissue samples was investigated using a novel fluorescence spectroscopic (S3-LED) ratiometer unit with no moving parts. This device can measure the emission spectra of key native organic biomolecules such as tryptophan, tyrosine, collagen and elastin within tissues by using LED (light emitting diode) excitation sources coupled to an optical fiber. With this device, the spectral profiles of 11 paired breast cancerous and normal samples from 11 patients with breast carcinoma were obtained. In each of the 11 cases, marked increases in the tryptophan levels were found in the breast carcinoma samples when compared to the normal breast tissues. In the breast cancer samples, there were also consistently higher ratios of the 340 to 440 nm and the 340 to 460 nm intensity peaks after 280 nm excitation, likely representing an increased tryptophan to NADH ratio in the breast cancer samples. This difference was seen in the spectral profiles of the breast cancer patients regardless of whether they were HER2 positive or negative or hormone receptor positive or negative, and was found regardless of meno-pausal status, histology, stage, or tumor grade.
Drug Embedded PVP Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles for Targeted Killing of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Rose P. Arsula , Praseetha P. K. , Bhagat Madhulika , Alexander Princy , Abdeen Sunitha , Chavali Murthy
Published: March 2013

Magnetic drug targeting is a drug delivery system that can be used in loco-regional cancer treatment. Coated magnetic particles, called carriers, are very useful for delivering chemotherapeutic drugs. Magnetic carriers were synthesized by co-precipitation of iron oxide followed by coating with polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP). Characterization was performed using X-ray diffraction, TEM, TGA, FTIR and UV-Vis Spectroscopy. Magnetite (Fe3O4) remained as the core of the carrier. The amount of PVP bound to the iron oxide nanoparticles was estimated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the attachment of PVP to the iron oxide nanoparticles confirmed by FTIR analysis. The loading efficiency of Epirubicin hydrochloride onto the PVP coated and uncoated iron oxide nanoparticles was measured at intervals such as 1 hr and 24 hrs by UV-Vis Spectroscopy. The binding of Epirubicin hydrochloride to the PVP coated and uncoated iron oxide nanoparticles were confirmed by FTIR analysis. The present findings showed that Epirubicin hydrochloride loaded PVP coated iron oxide nanoparticles are promising for magnetically targeted drug delivery. The drug displayed increased cell cytotoxicity at lower concentrations when conjugated with the nanoparticles than being administered conventionally as individual drugs.
Can a Belly Board Reduce Respiratory-Induced Prostate Motion in the Prone Position? — Assessed by Cine-Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Terashima K. , Nakamura K. , Shioyama Y. , Sasaki T. , Ohga S. , Nonoshita T. , Yoshitake T. , Atsumi K. , Asai K. , Hirakawa M. , Anai S. , Yoshikawa H. , Honda H.
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the real-time respiratory motion of the prostate and surrounding tissues/organs in the supine and prone positions and to investigate, using cine-MRI, whether a belly board can reduce respiratory-induced motion in the prone position. Cine-MRI scans were made of 13 volunteers in the supine and prone positions on a flat board and in two different prone positions using a belly board. Images in cine mode were recorded for 20 seconds. For each session, the points of interest (POIs) were located at the apex, base, mid-anterior surface and mid-posterior surface of the prostate; the tip of the seminal vesicle; the pubic symphysis; and the sacrum. The maximum range and standard deviation (SD) of the displacement from the mean value were calculated. The SDs for each of the four different positions were compared using a paired t-test. Respiratory-induced prostate motion was significantly larger in the prone position than in the supine position. However, when a belly board was used in the prone position, motion in the prostate and surrounding tissues/organs was significantly reduced. There were no significant differences between the two different positions using a belly board in any of the POIs.
Application ofDNAMicroarray in Studies of Herbal Dietary Supplements
Authors: Guo Lei , Fuscoe James C. , Fu P. , Mei Nan
Published: March 2013

Herbal dietary supplements are used extensively worldwide and the consumption has dramatically increased in the United States in recent years. Although side effects of many herbal dietary supplements have been reported, safety assurance has not been addressed adequately and toxicological data on most herbal dietary supplements are lacking. To address the issue of human health protection, there are currently more than 30 herbal dietary supplements or active ingredients under study by the US National Toxicology Program (NTP). Herbal products often exhibit great variability in quality because of different processing methods, cultivation conditions, and harvest time, as well as the strain and species differences. Authentication of plant species used for preparation of herbal dietary supplements is a critical step of safety assurance. Botanical extracts differ from drugs in that they are mixtures of many active constituents. At present, there are no well‐established methodologies for evaluating the toxicity or determining the toxic mechanisms of herbal plant extracts due to the complexity of chemical components. In this chapter, we describe the applications of DNA microarray for plant authentication and mechanistic studies of herbal dietary supplements.
Leptomeningeal collaterals are associated with modifiable metabolic risk factors
Authors: Menon Bijoy K. , Smith Eric E. , Coutts Shelagh B. , Welsh Donald G. , Faber James E. , Goyal Mayank , Hill Michael D. , Demchuk Andrew M. , Damani Zaheed , Cho Kyung‐Hee , Chang Hyuk‐Won , Hong Jeong‐Ho , Sohn Sung Il
Published: March 2013

Objective

We sought to identify potentially modifiable determinants associated with variability in leptomeningeal collateral status in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

Data are from the Keimyung Stroke Registry. Consecutive patients with M1 segment middle cerebral artery ± intracranial internal carotid artery occlusions on baseline computed tomographic angiography (CTA) from May 2004 to July 2009 were included. Baseline and follow‐up imaging was analyzed blinded to all clinical information. Two raters assessed leptomeningeal collaterals on baseline CTA by consensus, using a previously validated regional leptomeningeal score (rLMC).

Results

Baseline characteristics (N = 206) were: mean age = 66.9 ± 11.6 years, median baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale = 14 (interquartile range [IQR] = 11–20), and median time from stroke symptom onset to CTA = 166 minutes (IQR = 96–262). Poor collateral status at baseline (rLMC score = 0–10) was seen in 73 of 206 patients (35.4%). On univariate analyses, patients with poor collateral status at baseline were older; were hypertensive; had higher white blood cell count, blood glucose, D‐dimer, and serum uric acid levels; and were more likely to have metabolic syndrome. Multivariate modeling identified metabolic syndrome (odds ratio [OR] = 3.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.69–6.15, p < 0.001), hyperuricemia (per 1mg/dl serum uric acid; OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.12–1.62, p < 0.01), and older age (per 10 years; OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.02–1.77, p = 0.03) as independent predictors of poor leptomeningeal collateral status at baseline.

Interpretation

Metabolic syndrome, hyperuricemia, and age are associated with poor leptomeningeal collateral status in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Ann Neurol 2013;74:241–248
Neue Wasserstände für die Bemessung von Hochwasserschutzwänden und Uferbauwerken im Hamburger Hafen
Authors: Heil H. , Powroschnik L. , Claussen A. , Glimm M. , Möller B.
Published: March 2013

Der Hafen von Hamburg liegt im Tidebereich der Elbe. Der mittlere Tidenhub beträgt ca. 3,50 m. Für die Bemessung von Hochwasserschutzanlagen und Uferbauwerken ist es erforderlich, die Einflüsse der Tiden auf die Bauwerke zu berücksichtigen. Aufgrund höher auflaufender Tidewasserstände wurde es erforderlich, neue Bemessungsvorgaben für die Hafenbauwerke festzulegen. Hierzu wurden an unterschiedlichen Querschnittstypen instationäre Berechnungen der tideabhängigen Grundwasserströmung nach der Methode der Finiten Elemente durchgeführt. Die angesetzten Materialparameter wurden durch Vergleich der berechneten mit den an Bauwerken gemessenen tideabhängigen Grundwasserständen kalibriert. Aus den Rechenergebnissen wurden Bemessungsvorgaben abgeleitet, die Eingang in die neu aufgestellten "Technischen Rahmenbedingungen für die Fördermaßnahme PROJEKT PRIVATER HOCHWASSERSCHUTZ" der Freien und Hansestadt Hamburg für Uferbauwerke an Tidegewässern von Bedeutung.
Zur Anwendung der Bruchlinientheorie in der Praxis
Authors: Avellan K. , Werkle H.
Published: March 2013

Die nach EC 2 zugelassene Bruchlinientheorie ist ein einfaches Berechungsverfahren, mit dem sich der Versagenszustand von Stahlbetonplatten behandeln läßt. Es werden die grundlegenden Formeln in einer für die Programmierung geeigneten allgemeinen Form angegeben. Sie lassen sich für Platten mit rechteckwinkliger Berandung und orthogonaler Bewehrung für die Handrechnung vereinfachen. Anhand von Berechnungsbeispielen werden die Anwendung des Verfahrens sowie einige Eigenschaften verdeutlicht. Weiterhin werden Empfehlungen zu sinnvollen Annahmen der Bemessungskennwerte in der Praxis sowie Hinweise für eine pragmatische und effiziente Bemessung von Platten nach der Bruchlinientheorie gegeben.
Kombination von Einwirkungen. Eine Betrachtung zu den Formulierungen in den Eurocodes und ein Vorschlag für eine vereinfachte Kombinationsregel
Authors: Fischer L.
Published: March 2013

In den Eurocodes erfolgt die Kombination der Einwirkungen nach zwei Regeln ‐ der Grundkombination und der vereinfachten Kombination. Beide Regeln besitzen den Status von "Anwendungsregeln". Im Fall ständiger und vorübergehender Bemessungssituationen im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit und im Fall der charakteristischen (seltenen) Kombinationen im Grenzzustand der Gebrauchstauglichkeit steht die vereinfachte Kombination für Hochbauten nicht mit den "Prinzipien" in Übereinstimmung. Ein Vorschlag für eine vereinfachte Kombinationsregel wird in dieser Veröffentlichung unterbreitet, die mit der Grundkombinationsregel konsistent ist. Schließlich wird eine Empfehlung an die Bauingenieure zum Studium der Methode der Grenzzustände gegeben.