bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of a Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography Method for the Simultaneous Determination of Indole-3-Acetic Acid, Indole-3-Pyruvic Acid, and Abscisic Acid in Barley (Hordeum vulgareL.)
Authors: Nakurte Ilva , Keisa Anete , Rostoks Nils
Published: April 2012

A simple, sensitive, precise, and specific reverse HPLC method was developed and validated for the determination of plant hormones in barley (Hordeum vulgareL.). The method includes extraction in aqueous organic solvent followed by solid-phase extraction, sample evaporation, and reversed-phase HPLC analysis in a general purpose UV-visible (abscisic acid (ABA)) and fluorescence detection (indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPA)), high-performance liquid chromatography system. The separation was carried out on Zorbax Eclipse XDB C8 column (150 × 4.6 mm I.D) with a mobile phase composed of methanol and 1% acetic acid (60 : 40 v/v) in isocratic mode at a flow rate of 1 ml min-1. The detection was monitored at 270 nm (ABA) and at 282 nm (Ex) and 360 nm (Em) (IAA, IPA). The developed method was validated in terms of accuracy, precision, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantification, and robustness. The determined validation parameters are in the commonly acceptable ranges for that kind of analysis.
Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry for the Simultaneous Determination of Ursodiol and its Major Metabolites, Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid and Glycoursodeoxycholic Acid in Human Plasma
Authors: Ganesan M. , Nanjundan S. , Viswanathan S. , Uma G.
Published: April 2012

A rapid and sensitive method is described for the quantification of ursodiol and its major metabolites glycoursodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA) and tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) in human plasma using single internal standard (Ursodeoxycholic Acid d4). Solid phase extraction was performed and chromatographic separation of 5µL injected sample was achieved using Waters Xterra, 5µm column with a mobile phase comprised of methanol and 5 mM ammonium formate with 0.1 % acetic acid ( 70 : 30, v/v ). The mass spectrometer was used in negative ion mode and multiple reactions monitoring using electro spray ionization mode as an interface. The method was fully validated and the calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 25.9 to 15300.1 ng/mL for ursodiol, 2.7 to 1587.5ng/mLfor tauroursodeoxycholicacid and 25.4 to 15040.9 ng/mL for glycoursodeoxycholic acid. The method was sensitive and specific, with the lower limit of quantification of 25.9, 2.7 and 25.4 ng/ml for ursodiol, tauroursodeoxycholic acid and glycoursodeoxycholic acid respectively. The present method includes a simple and rapid sample preparation with shorter analysis run time and less flow rate compared to previously reported methods. The method was applied successfully for a bioequivalence study in healthy subjects.
Imaging of Fault and Fracture Controls in the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer, Southern Oklahoma, USA, through Electrical Resistivity Sounding and Tomography Methods
Authors: Ramachandran Kumar , Tapp Bryan , Rigsby Tayler , Lewallen Erin
Published: April 2012

Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer in southern Oklahoma, USA, is a major source of water for industrial and municipal use. It is also a major source for spring-fed streams in the area. As part of an ongoing study to map and characterize the Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer, an electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) study and electrical resistivity sounding studies were conducted in Johnston County, Oklahoma, USA, to map the subsurface of a small area of the carbonate aquifer. The main aim of the study was to obtain constraints on the location of near surface faults and fractures and how they control groundwater flow in the study area. The interpreted resistivity section along an N-S profile indicates that the water table in the region is deepening to the south and probably bounded in the north by a south dipping fault. Inverse modeling of 2D electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data acquired at two adjacent locations within the study area indicate shallow, fractured Arbuckle group rocks saturated with water adjacent to dry rocks. From electrical resistivity mapping results, it is inferred that the Mill Creek block in the Arbuckle-Simpson aquifer is an isolated system, interacting with the northern segment of a silicate-based aquifer through dissolution faults and fractures.
Thermodynamic Study of the Substitution Reaction between Cis‐[Pt(p‐MeC6H4)2(SMe2)2] Complex and pyridine‐3‐ol Ligand
Authors: Akbari Alireza , Ahmadi Mehdi , GolZadeh Babak
Published: April 2012

The equilibrium constants and other thermodynamic parameters for the adduct formation between cis‐[Pt(p‐Tol)2(SMe2)2] complex as an acceptor and 3‐hydroxy pyridine (pyridine‐3‐ol) ligand as a donor in acetone, ethanol and benzene at various temperatures (13‐20°C) have been spectrophotometrically measured. Our studies showed that ΔH°(KJ.mol-1) of the reaction in ethanol, acetone and benzene are 6.442, 43.1 and 46.247 respectively. The related entropies (J.mol-1.K-1) have been obtained 89.82, 218.5 and 236 respectively, too. In addition, the amount of ΔG°(kJ.mol-1) for the reaction occurred in solvents mentioned above are ‐20.324, ‐22.013 and ‐24.081.
Validated LC Method for the Estimation of Dorzolamide HCl (Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor) in Ophthalmic Solutions
Authors: Narendra A. , Deepika D. , Annapurna M. Mathrusri
Published: April 2012

A reverse phase HPLC method is described for the determination of Dorzolamide in eye drops. Chromatography was carried on an Inertsil ODS 3V column using Acetonitrile : (0.02M) 1,Octane Sulphonic acid buffer (pH 3.5) (36:64 v/v) on isocratic mode at a flow rate of 1 mL/min with UV detection at 254 nm. The detector response was linear in the concentration range 4‐720 µg/mL. The limit of detection and limit of quantification are found to be 0.7041 and 2.3483 µg/mL respectively. The method was validated as per the ICH guidelines. The proposed method is rapid, accurate and precise and can be applied for the routine analysis of dorzolamide in ophthalimic solutions.
Joint Effect of Childhood Abuse and Family History of Major Depressive Disorder on Rates of PTSD in People with Personality Disorders
Authors: Flory Janine D. , Yehuda Rachel , Passarelli Vincent , Siever Larry J.
Published: April 2012

Objective. Childhood maltreatment and familial psychopathology both lead to an increased risk of the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adulthood. While family history of psychopathology has traditionally been viewed as a proxy for genetic predisposition, such pathology can also contribute to a stress-laden environment for the child.Method. Analyses were conducted to evaluate the joint effect of childhood abuse and a family history of major depressive disorder (MDD) on diagnoses of PTSD and MDD in a sample of 225 adults with DSM-IV Axis II disorders.Results.Results showed that the rate of PTSD in the presence of both childhood abuse and MDD family history was almost six-fold (OR=5.89,  P=.001) higher relative to the absence of both factors. In contrast, the rate of MDD in the presence of both factors was associated with a nearly three-fold risk relative to the reference group (OR=2.75,  P=.01).Conclusions. The results from this observational study contribute to a growing understanding of predisposing factors for the development of PTSD and suggest that joint effects of family history of MDD and childhood abuse on PTSD are greater than either factor alone.
NovelBRAFAlteration in a Sporadic Pilocytic Astrocytoma
Authors: Dahiya Sonika , Yu Jinsheng , Kaul Aparna , Leonard Jeffrey R. , Gutmann David H.
Published: April 2012

Pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is the most frequently encountered glial tumor (glioma or astrocytoma) in children. Recent studies have identified alterations in theBRAFserine/threonine kinase gene as the likely causative mutation in these childhood brain tumors. The majority of these genetic changes involve chromosome 7q34 tandem duplication, resulting in aberrantBRAFfusion transcripts. In this paper, we describe a novelKIAA1549:BRAFfusion transcript in a sporadic PA tumor associated with increased ERK activation and review the spectrum ofBRAFgenetic alterations in this common pediatric low-grade central nervous system neoplasm.
Equilibrium and Kinetics Study of Adsorption of Crystal Violet onto the Peel of Cucumis sativa Fruit from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Smitha T. , Thirumalisamy S. , Manonmani S.
Published: April 2012

The use of low‐cost, locally available, high efficiency and eco‐friendly adsorbents has been investigated as an ideal alternative to the current expensive methods of removing dyes from wastewater. This study investigates the potential use of the peel of Cucumis sativa fruit for the removal of crystal violet (CV) dye from simulated wastewater. The effects of different system variables, adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration, pH and contact time were investigated and optimal experimental conditions were ascertained. The results showed that as the amount of the adsorbent increased, the percentage of dye removal increased accordingly. Optimum pH value for dye adsorption was determined as 7.0. The adsorption of crystal violet followed pseudo‐second order rate equation and fit well Langmuir and Freundlich equations. The maximum removal of CV was obtained at pH 7 as 92.15% for adsorbent dose of 0.2 g/50 mL and 25 mg L-1 initial dye concentration at room temperature. The maximum adsorption capacity obtained from Langmuir equation was 34.24 mg g-1. Furthermore, adsorption kinetics of (CV) was studied and the rate of adsorption was found to conform to pseudo‐second order kinetics with a good correlation (R2 > 0.9739). The peel of Cucumis sativa fruit can be attractive options for dye removal from diluted industrial effluents since test reaction made on simulated dyeing wastewater show better removal percentage of (CV).
RP‐HPLC Estimation of Trospium Chloride in Tablet Dosage Forms
Authors: Lakshmi M. Vijaya , Rao J. V. L. N. S. , Rao A. Lakshmana
Published: April 2012

A rapid, sensitive and precise HPLC method was developed for the estimation of trospium chloride in pure and tablet dosage forms. Seperation of the drug was achieved on a reverse phase Azilent C18 column using a mobile phase consisting of phosphate buffer and acetonitrile in the ratio of 60:40v/v. The flow rate was 1 ml/min and the detection wave length 215 nm. The linearity was found in the range of 10‐150 μg/ml with a correlation coefficient of 1.0000. The proposed method was validated for its sensitivity, linearity, accuracy and precision. This method was employed for routine quality control analysis of trospium chloride in tablet dosage forms.
Prenatal Characteristics of Infants with a Neuronal Migration Disorder: A National-Based Study
Authors: Naumburg Estelle , Strömberg Bo , Kieler Helle
Published: April 2012

The development of the central nervous system is complex and includes dorsal and ventral induction, neuronal proliferation, and neuronal migration, organization, and myelination. Migration occurs in humans in early fetal life. Pathogenesis of malformations of the central nervous system includes both genetic and environmental factors. Few epidemiological studies have addressed the impact of prenatal exposures. All infants born alive and included in the Swedish Medical Birth Register 1980–1999 were included in the study. By linkage to the Patient Register, 820 children with a diagnosis related to a neuronal migration abnormality were identified. Through copies of referrals for computer tomography or magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, the diagnosis was confirmed in 17 children. Median age of the mothers was 29 years. At the start of pregnancy, four out of 17 women smoked. Almost half of the women had a body mass index that is low or in the lower range of average. All infants were born at term with normal birth weights. Thirteen infants had one or more concomitant diseases or malformations. Two infants were born with rubella syndrome. The impact of low maternal body mass index and congenital infections on neuronal migration disorders in infants should be addressed in future studies.
The Effects of Silica/Carbon Black Ratio on the Dynamic Properties of the Tread compounds in Truck Tires
Authors: Zafarmehrabian Ramin , Gangali Saeed Taghvaei , Ghoreishy Mir Hamid Reza , Davallu Mehran
Published: April 2012

NR is the major constituent in the rubber compound used for the tread on the truck tires. A general compound formulation of the tire tread includes NR and BR as polymer base and carbon black as the reinforcing filler, and curative components. In this paper the effects of dual filler system (carbon black and precipitated silica) on the dynamic properties of tire treat has been studied. The results show by increasing of precipitated silica, significant improvement was observed in fatigue resistance, rolling resistance and heat buildup of the tire. Tensile strength and modulus and wet grip of tire tread decrease with increasing of silica in rubber compound formulation.
Dietary Supplementation of Female Rats with Elk Velvet Antler Improves Physical and Neurological Development of Offspring
Authors: Chen Jiongran , Woodbury Murray R. , Alcorn Jane , Honaramooz Ali
Published: April 2012

Elk velvet antler (EVA) has a traditional use for promotion of general health. However, evidence of EVA effects at different lifestages is generally lacking. This paper investigated the effects of long-term maternal dietary EVA supplementation on physical, reflexological and neurological development of rat offspring. Female Wistar rats were fed standard chow or chow containing 10% EVA for 90 days prior to mating and throughout pregnancy and lactation. In each dietary group, 56 male and 56 female pups were assessed for physical, neuromotor, and reflexologic development postnatally. Among the examined physical developmental parameters, incisor eruption occurred one day earlier in pups nursing dams receiving EVA. Among neuromotor developmental parameters, duration of supported and unsupported standing was longer for pups nursing EVA supplemented dams. Acquisition of neurological reflex parameters (righting reflex, negative geotaxis, cliff avoidance acoustic startle) occurred earlier in pups nursing dams receiving EVA. Longterm maternal EVA supplementation prior to and during pregnancy and lactation accelerated certain physical, reflexologic, and neuromotor developmental milestones and caused no discernible adverse effects on developing offspring. The potential benefits of maternal EVA supplementation on postnatal development warrants further investigation to determine whether EVA can be endorsed for the promotion of maternal and child health.
Preparation and Characterization of P‐TSA Doped Tetraaniline Nanorods via Micellar‐Assisted Method
Authors: Basavaiah K. , Rao A. V. Prasada
Published: April 2012

In this work, we report preparation and characterization of P‐toluene sulphonic acid (P‐TSA) doped tetraaniline nanorods by micellar assisted method using ammonium per sulphate (APS) as an oxidant. Here, PTSA acts as dopant as well as template for tetraaniline nanostructures. The synthesized tetraaniline nanorods have been well characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), FT Raman spectroscopy, UV‐Visible spectroscopy (UV‐Visible), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetry. The morphologies of tetraaniline were found to be dependent on molar ratios of N‐phenyl‐1, 4‐phenylenediamine (NPPD) to PTSA. The spectroscopic data indicated that PTSA doped tetraaniline nanorods. Thermogravimetry studies revealed that the PTSA doping improved the thermal stability of tetraaniline nanorods.
Synthesis and Characterization of Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic Acid doped Tetraaniline via Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Basavaiah K. , Rao K. Tirumala , Rao A. V. Prasada
Published: April 2012

In this work, we report preparation and characterization of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) doped tetraaniline via micelles assisted method using ammonium per sulphate (APS) as an oxidant. Here, DBSA act as dopant as well as template for tetraaniline nanostructures. The synthesized DBSA doped tetraaniline have been well characterized by X‐ray diffraction patterns, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV‐Visible spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetry. The morphologies of tetraaniline were found to be dependent on molar ratios of N‐phenyl‐1, 4‐phenylenediamine to DBSA. The spectroscopic data indicated that DBSA doped tetraaniline. Thermogravimetry studies revealed that the DBSA doping improved the thermal stability of tetraaniline.
Immobilized Ionic Liquid‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Pyrano[3,2‐b]indole Derivatives
Authors: Damavandi Saman
Published: April 2012

An ionic liquid‐catalyzed synthesis of 2‐amino‐4,5‐dihydro‐4‐arylpyrano[3,2‐b]indole‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives through a novel three‐component condensation of 3‐hydroxyindole, aromatic aldehydes and malononitrile in the presence of silica supported ionic liquid of [pmim]HSO4SiO2 (silica supported 1‐methyl‐3‐(triethoxysilylpropyl)imidazolium hydrogensulfate) as an efficient catalyst is described.
Synthesis of Some Novel Fused Imidazo [2, 1‐b] [1, 3] Thiazole and Imidazo [2, 1‐b] Thiazolo [5, 4‐d] Isoxazole Derivatives
Authors: Jaberi Hamid Reza , Noorizadeh Hadi
Published: April 2012

In this work we describe the synthesis of some novel fused imidazo [2, 1‐b] [1, 3] thiazole derivatives. The reaction of 1, 2‐diaminoethane 1 with carbon disulphide in H2O/ETOH as solvent furnishes 4, 5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐thiol 2 under reflux condition. the reaction of 4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐thiol on treatment with ethylchloro acetate and aromatic aldehyde in presence of anhydrous sodium acetate and acetic acid as solvent to give (Z)‐2‐(arylidene)‐5,6‐dihydroimidazo [2,1‐b] [1,3] thiazol‐3(2H)‐one 3a‐j. Compounds 3a‐j was condensed with hydroxylamine to give 3‐(aryl)‐2, 3, 6, 7‐tetrahydroimidazo [2, 1‐b] [1,3] thiazolo [5, 4‐d] isoxazole 4a‐j. The structures of the new compounds were established by elemental analyses, IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR data.
Simple and Inexpensive Methods Development for Determination of Venlafaxine Hydrochloride from Its Solid Dosage Forms by Visible Spectrophotometry
Authors: Raghubabu K. , Swarup L. Shanti , Kalyanaramu B. , Rao M. N. , Ramdas C.
Published: April 2012

Two simple, sensitive and cost effective visible spectrophotometric methods (M1 and M2) have been developed for the determination of venlafaxine hydrochloride from bulk and tablet dosage forms. The method M1 is based on the formation of green colored coordination complex by the drug with cobalt thiocyanate which is quantitatively extractable into nitro benzene with an absorption maximum of 626.4 nm. The method M2 involves internal salt formation of aconitic anhydride, dehydration product of citric acid [CIA] with acetic anhydride [Ac2O] to form colored chromogen with an absorption maximum of 561.2 nm. The calibration graph is linear over the concentration range of 10‐50 µg/mL and 8‐24 µg/mL for method M1 and M2 respectively. The proposed methods are applied to commercial available tablets and the results are statistically compared with those obtained by the reference method and validated by recovery studies. The results are found satisfactory and reproducible. These methods are applied successfully for the estimation of the venlafaxine hydrochloride in the presence of other ingredients that are usually present in dosage forms.
Maternal Recreational Exercise during Pregnancy in relation to Children’s BMI at 7 Years of Age
Authors: Schou Andersen Camilla , Juhl Mette , Gamborg Michael , Sørensen Thorkild I. A. , Nohr Ellen Aagaard
Published: April 2012

Exposures during fetal life may have long-term health consequences including risk of childhood overweight. We investigated the associations between maternal recreational exercise during early and late pregnancy and the children’s body mass index (BMI) and risk of overweight at 7 years. Data on 40,280 mother-child pairs from the Danish National Birth Cohort was used. Self-reported information about exercise was obtained from telephone interviews around gestational weeks 16 and 30. Children’s weight and height were reported in a 7-year follow-up and used to calculate BMI and overweight status. Data was analyzed using multiple linear and logistic regression models. Recreational exercise across pregnancy was inversely related to children’s BMI and risk of overweight, but all associations were mainly explained by smoking habits, socioeconomic status, and maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. Additionally, we did not find exercise intensity or changes in exercise habits in pregnancy related to the children’s BMI or risk of overweight.
Optimization the Initial Weights of Artificial Neural Networks via Genetic Algorithm Applied to Hip Bone Fracture Prediction
Authors: Chang Yu-Tzu , Lin Jinn , Shieh Jiann-Shing , Abbod Maysam F.
Published: April 2012

This paper aims to find the optimal set of initial weights to enhance the accuracy of artificial neural networks (ANNs) by using genetic algorithms (GA). The sample in this study included 228 patients with first low-trauma hip fracture and 215 patients without hip fracture, both of them were interviewed with 78 questions. We used logistic regression to select 5 important factors (i.e., bone mineral density, experience of fracture, average hand grip strength, intake of coffee, and peak expiratory flow rate) for building artificial neural networks to predict the probabilities of hip fractures. Three-layer (one hidden layer) ANNs models with back-propagation training algorithms were adopted. The purpose in this paper is to find the optimal initial weights of neural networks via genetic algorithm to improve the predictability. Area under the ROC curve (AUC) was used to assess the performance of neural networks. The study results showed the genetic algorithm obtained an AUC of0.858±0.00493on modeling data and0.802±0.03318on testing data. They were slightly better than the results of our previous study (0.868±0.00387and0.796±0.02559, resp.). Thus, the preliminary study for only using simple GA has been proved to be effective for improving the accuracy of artificial neural networks.
Ruxolitinib: The First FDA Approved Therapy for the Treatment of Myelofibrosis
Authors: Mascarenhas John , Hoffman Ronald
Published: April 2012

The BCR-ABL1–negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (e.g., essential thrombocythemia, polycythemia vera, and primary myelofibrosis) are a group of heterogeneous hematologic malignancies that involve a clonal proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells. Thrombosis, bleeding, and transformation to acute leukemia reduce the overall survival of patients with myelofibrosis, a disease typified by progressive splenomegaly and disease-related symptoms such as fatigue, pruritus, and bony pains. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant offers the only potential for cure in a minority of eligible patients, leaving a serious unmet need for improved therapies. Recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying these diseases have led to an explosion of clinical trials evaluating novel therapies. The discovery of an activating mutation in the Janus-activated kinase 2 (JAK2) gene provided a therapeutic target to downregulate this activated signaling pathway, which influences the phenotype of these diseases. Ruxolitinib (Jakafi; Incyte) is a small-molecule inhibitor of JAK1/2 that has proved to be effective at reducing splenomegaly and ameliorating symptoms in myeloproliferative neoplasms. Based on the results of 2 pivotal randomized phase III clinical trials, ruxolitinib has become the first therapeutic to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of patients with myelofibrosis. Ruxolitinib offers a well-tolerated oral therapeutic option for patients with myelofibrosis with symptomatic splenomegaly and debilitating disease-related symptoms, but it does not seem to be effective at eliminating the underlying hematological malignancy. Clin Cancer Res; 18(11); 3008–14. ©2012 AACR.
Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin Is a Novel Mineralocorticoid Target in the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Latouche Celine , El Moghrabi Soumaya , Messaoudi Smail , Nguyen Dinh Cat Aurélie , Hernandez-Diaz Ivan , Alvarez de la Rosa Diego , Perret Claudine , López Andrés Natalia , Rossignol Patrick , Zannad Faiez , Farman Nicolette , Jaisser Frederic
Published: April 2012

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation may be deleterious to the cardiovascular system, and MR antagonists improve morbidity and mortality of patients with heart failure. However, mineralocorticoid signaling in the heart remains largely unknown. Using a pan-genomic transcriptomic analysis, we identified neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL or lipocalin 2) as a strongly induced gene in the heart of mice with conditional and targeted MR overexpression in cardiomyocytes (whereas induction was low in glucocorticoid receptor–overexpressing mice). NGAL mRNA levels were enhanced after hormonal stimulation by the MR ligand aldosterone in cultured cardiac cells and in the heart of wild-type mice. Mineralocorticoid pathological challenge induced by nephrectomy/aldosterone/salt treatment upregulated NGAL expression in the heart and aorta and its plasma levels. We show evidence for MR binding to an NGAL promoter, providing a mechanism for NGAL regulation. We propose that NGAL may be a marker of mineralocorticoid-dependent injury in the cardiovascular system in mice.
The Impact of Internationalization of U.S. Multinationals on Public Affairs Strategy and Performance
Authors: Johnson Julius H. , Mirchandani Dinesh A. , Meznar Martin B.
Published: April 2012

This study uses partial least squares (PLS) analysis to investigate the changing relationships among corporate international expansion, public affairs strategies, and public affairs performance over a 10-year period. Two waves of single-respondent data were collected from the same U.S. multinational corporations (MNCs) in 1993 and 2003. These data are used to test hypotheses that internationalization affects how successfully a U.S. MNC manages its relationships with social and political stakeholders in its nonmarket environment. The results of this unique study indicate that the number of countries in which the MNC operates and its percentages of foreign employees, foreign assets, and foreign sales are associated with the public affairs strategies that MNCs use in nonmarket environments. The study differentiates these strategies into social or political buffering and social or political bridging. Significant differences exist across the two time periods in the impact of percentage of foreign employees on social buffering and the impact of political buffering on political affairs performance. The study elaborates the implications of these findings.
Using finite element method to analyze the effect of microstructure on energy absorption properties of open cell polymeric foams
Authors: Fereidoon Abdolhossein , Taheri Seid Ali
Published: April 2012

A lot of structural applications benefit from polymer foams and their capabilities of absorbing and dissipating energy. These kinds of materials enjoy very light weights and magnificent capacity for energy absorption. In this paper, a three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) is developed to analyze the behavior of polymer foams. The model is idealized to a level that the microstructure is represented by a regular Kelvin cell. The standard structural software, Abaqus, is used for the finite element analysis. Further on, the numerical model is also validated using the Gibson Model and the experimental results as well. The present work is most importantly aimed at understanding the influence of the cavity size and the density on stress–strain behavior of polypropylene (PP) open cell foam, demonstrated by the absorbed energy by the unit volume (the area under the stress–strain curve) of this material. The optimum foam for each particular application is selected using an energy absorption diagram.
Unraveling the Threads of White Teachers’ Conceptions of Caring
Authors: Pennington Julie L. , Brock Cynthia H. , Ndura Elavie
Published: April 2012

This study explored two White inservice teachers’ understandings of Whiteness in relation to privilege and caring. A yearlong professional development set of courses used a multimodal construction of three significant course experiences designed to reposition Whiteness and illuminate White teachers’ predisposition to care for their students in ways aligned with their own conceptions of caring.
The Progressive Impoverishment of Tertiary Teaching: Reflections on Teaching Public Administration during the ‘Golden Age’ before 1987
Authors: Scott Roger
Published: April 2012

This article was a contribution to a conference session on experiential learning, identifying the lessons derived from a career teaching public administration between 1957 and 1987. It sets the discussion in the context of historical and current debates in Britain and the USA about the current role of universities. Lessons derived from Tasmania, Oxford, Kampala, Sydney, Belfast, Canberra and Queensland included the need for academic leaders to emphasise and value the teaching role of academics, the benefits of including internships and pre-vocational content in an undergraduate curriculum and the strengthening of peer review mechanisms rather than external performance indicators.
Complementary or Substitutive Effects? Corporate Governance Mechanisms and Poison Pill Repeal
Authors: Schepker Donald J. , Oh Won-Yong
Published: April 2012

A significant amount of research has examined firms’ decisions to adopt poison pills; however, firms today are increasingly repealing or allowing poison pills to expire. Based on agency theory, the authors examine competing perspectives of governance mechanisms as having complementary or substitutive effects within the context of poison pill repeal. They test whether firms repeal poison pills when governance is strong (complementary effects) or allow for other governance mechanisms to compensate for potential agency costs associated with poison pill renewal (substitutive effects). Using a sample of 288 firms who made decisions to terminate or renew poison pills, the authors find that firms with CEO duality, fewer directors nominated by the CEO, and higher levels of outside director ownership and pressure-resistant institutional shareholdings are more likely to repeal poison pills. A curvilinear relationship between managerial ownership and poison pill repeal is also found. The results provide greater support for the notion that firms use governance mechanisms as complements rather than substitutes.
Graduated Endoscopic Multiangle Approach for Access to the Infratemporal Fossa
Authors: Eloy Jean Anderson , Murray Kim P. , Friedel Mark E. , Tessema Belachew , Liu James K.
Published: April 2012

Objective

The infratemporal fossa (ITF) has historically been one of the most difficult regions of the skull base to access surgically. Available open approaches are complex, are associated with high morbidity, and do not always afford optimal visualization. Endoscopic access to the ITF improves visualization for management of many sinonasal and lateral skull base lesions involving this region. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a graduated multiangle approach for endoscopic access to this area using a cadaveric model.

Study Design and Setting

Cadaveric study at an academic medical center.

Methods

Endoscopic dissection was performed on a total of 10 sides of 5 fresh cadaveric heads. Four different approaches to the ITF were studied: ipsilateral endonasal, endoscopically assisted Caldwell‐Luc, contralateral endonasal via septotomy, and endoscopically assisted Gillies transtemporal. High‐quality endoscopic pictures and high‐definition videos of each technique were obtained in order to document the differences in access achieved with each approach.

Results

The combination of the 4 different endoscopic techniques allowed complete access to all areas of the ITF. The endoscopically assisted Caldwell‐Luc improved anteroposterior access, the contralateral septotomy approach resulted in excellent far lateral access, and the endoscopically assisted Gillies approach allowed posterosuperior visualization and instrumentation.

Conclusion

Endoscopic access to the ITF can be accomplished by each of the 4 methods described. A multiangle, graduated approach can provide surgeons the ability to customize surgical access depending on the location of a specific lesion within the ITF.
The metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia: is inflammation a contributing cause?
Authors: Leonard Brian E , Schwarz Markus , Myint Aye Mu
Published: April 2012

This non-systematic review of the literature summarizes the evidence that inflammation plays a major role in the psychopathology of schizophrenia and in the mechanisms that contribute to physical ill health that is commonly associated with schizophrenia. The impact of prenatal infections on the developing brain, the possible genetic link between the human lymphocyte antigen gene, inflammation, heart disease and diabetes, together with the increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid provide convincing evidence that inflammation is a major factor in the pathology of this disorder. The changes in immune-related markers and specific neurotransmitters associated with the positive symptoms of schizophrenia are described. In addition, the possible mechanism whereby structural changes occur in the brain is associated with the neurotoxic effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines, together with the neurotoxic metabolites from the tryptophan–kynurenine pathway that is activated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, is also discussed. The role of effective antipsychotic drug treatment in attenuating the inflammatory response is described. However, evidence is limited regarding the causal connection between atypical antipsychotic drugs and the changes in glucose and lipid metabolism that could trigger the onset of physical ill health, including diabetes and heart disease. Indeed, there is evidence that there is a metabolic predisposition to diabetes in patients with schizophrenia that is exacerbated by obesity and thereby contributes to cardiovascular disease and other co-morbid illnesses. It is concluded that the effects of inflammatory mediators on the brain causally contribute to the pathology of schizophrenia and the ill health that accompanies the disorder.
Hip Morphological Characteristics and Range of Internal Rotation in Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Audenaert Emmanuel A. , Peeters Ian , Vigneron Lara , Baelde Nick , Pattyn Christophe
Published: April 2012

Background: Radiographic features specifically related to the occurrence of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) appear to be highly prevalent in the asymptomatic population. It remains unclear, however, how these incidental findings should be interpreted clinically and which other variables might differentiate between true incidental findings and preclinical patients.

Purpose: To study the association between cam and overall hip morphological characteristics and range of motion in impingement patients, asymptomatic patients (healthy patients with radiographic features specific to FAI), and healthy controls.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: Morphological parameters describing cam and overall hip anatomy were obtained from 30 patients (10 per subgroup) with use of 3-dimensional computational methods. In addition, the range of internal rotation in high flexion activities was evaluated, and its relation to hip morphological variables was analyzed in a multivariate regression model.

Results: Size of the cam lesion and range of motion significantly differed between groups ( P < .05). The range of internal rotation on impingement testing was found to average 27.9° in the healthy control group compared with 21.1° in the asymptomatic control group with radiographic features specific to FAI ( P < .001) and 12.3° in the patient group ( P < .001). Cam size, acetabular coverage, and femoral version appeared to be predictive variables for the range of internal rotation. Seventy-five percent of variance between patients could be attributed to the combined effect of these 3 variables ( R = .86). The range of motion was decreased in cam patients and asymptomatic patients, and early femoroacetabular conflict was not restricted to the area of the cam lesion but involved the entire anterior femoral head-neck junction.

Conclusion: Decreased range of motion, as found in FAI, is not solely dependent on the size or even the occurrence of a cam lesion but should be interpreted by taking into account the overall hip anatomy, specifically femoral version and acetabular coverage. Decreased femoral anteversion and increased acetabular coverage add to the risk of early femoroacetabular collision during sports and activities of daily living and therefore appear to be additional predictive variables, besides the finding of a cam lesion, for the risk of clinical hip impingement development. In addition, the findings suggest that surgical osteochondroplasty to restore a normal range of motion may necessitate more excessive bone resection than what simply appears to be a bump on imaging.
Patellar Tendon Healing With Platelet-Rich Plasma
Authors: de Almeida Adriano Marques , Demange Marco Kawamura , Sobrado Marcel Faraco , Rodrigues Marcelo Bordalo , Pedrinelli André , Hernandez Arnaldo José
Published: April 2012

Background: The patellar tendon has limited ability to heal after harvesting its central third. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) could improve patellar tendon healing.

Hypothesis: Adding PRP to the patellar tendon harvest site would improve donor site healing and improve clinical outcome at 6 months after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with a patellar tendon graft.

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods: Twenty-seven patients were randomly divided to receive (n = 12) or not receive (n = 15) PRP in the patellar tendon harvest site during ACL reconstruction. The primary outcome was magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment of patellar tendon healing (gap area) after 6 months. Secondary outcomes were questionnaires and isokinetic testing of ACL reconstruction with a patellar tendon graft comparing both groups.

Results: Patellar tendon gap area was significantly smaller in the PRP group (4.9 ± 5.3 mm2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-8.8) than in the control group (9.4 ± 4.4 mm2; 95% CI, 6.6-12.2; P = .046). Visual analog scale score for pain was lower in the PRP group immediately postoperatively (3.8 ± 1.0; 95% CI, 3.18-4.49) than in the control group (5.1 ± 1.4; 95% CI, 4.24-5.90; P = .02). There were no differences after 6 months in questionnaire and isokinetic testing results comparing both groups.

Conclusion: We showed that PRP had a positive effect on patellar tendon harvest site healing on MRI after 6 months and also reduced pain in the immediate postoperative period. Questionnaire and isokinetic testing results were not different between the groups at 6 months.
The sensitivity of a lower limb model to axial rotation offsets and muscle bounds at the knee
Authors: Southgate Dominic FL , Cleather Daniel J , Weinert-Aplin Robert A , Bull Anthony MJ
Published: April 2012

Soft tissue artifacts during motion capture can lead to errors in kinematics and incorrect estimation of joint angles and segment motion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of shank segment axial rotation and knee rotator muscle bounds on predicted muscle and joint forces in a musculoskeletal model of the lower limb. A maximal height jump for ten subjects was analysed using the original motion data and then modified for different levels of internal and external rotation, and with the upper force bound doubled for five muscles. Both externally rotating the shank and doubling the muscle bounds increased the ability of the model to find a solution in regions of high loading. Muscle force levels in popliteus and tensor fascia latae showed statistically significant differences, but less so in plantaris, sartorius or gracilis. The shear and patellofemoral joint forces were found to be significantly affected by axial rotation during specific phases of the motion and were dependent on the amount of rotation. Fewer differences were observed when doubling the muscle bounds, except for the patellofemoral force and plantaris and sartorius muscle force, which were significantly increased in many of the jump phases. These results give an insight into the behaviour of the model and give an indication of the importance of accurate kinematics and subject-specific geometry.
Plotting Maternity in Three Persons
Authors: Kinser Amber E.
Published: April 2012

This performance text examines complexities of personal and maternal identity in family life. Speaking in first, second, and third person voices, the author offers autoethnographic accounts of the tensions between separateness and connectedness, normative and subjective motherhood, and novice and seasoned perspectives. The piece functions as a text of resistance that pushes against normative expectations about maternal emotion and child-centered maternal dialogue and gives voice to evolutions in mother wit and lifeworlds.
Do not treat from CIS onset: evaluate disease course and prognosis first – Yes
Authors: Bunyan Reem F , Pittock Sean J
Published: April 2012

As physicians how do we counsel our patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) when they ask, ‘what is the benefit of injecting disease-modifying agents (DMAs) over many years? What disability will they prevent in my future?’ In this debate, we will provide three core points supporting the concept that a watchful waiting approach (annual neurological evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging of the head (with gadolinium) at least for the first few years after diagnosis) for most patients with CIS represents appropriate medical care.
Tegafur–uracil is a safe alternative for the treatment of colorectal cancer in patients with partial dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase deficiency: a proof of principle
Authors: Cubero Daniel I.G. , Cruz Felipe Melo , Santi Patrícia , Silva Ismael Dale C.G. , Giglio Auro del
Published: April 2012

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of using tegafur–uracil (UFT) in colorectal cancer patients with partial dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency.

Patients and Methods:

The study included five colorectal cancer patients who presented with acute toxicity (grades 3 and 4) after being given the first cycle of chemotherapy using 5-fluorouracil. The DPD deficiency was confirmed by gene sequencing. After a full recovery from all side effects, we changed the regimen to UFT (300 mg/m2/day) associated with leucovorin (90 mg/day) for 21 days, with an empirical dose reduction of at least 10% in the first cycle.

Results:

We prospectively analysed 22 UFT cycles in 5 patients. We did not observe any episodes of grade 3 or 4 toxicity. The predominant toxicities were of grades 1 and 2 (nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea).

Conclusion:

Here, we demonstrate a complete absence of severe toxicity in all patients and cycles analysed. We believe that UFT is a safe alternative for the treatment of patients with partial DPD deficiency.
Differential pattern and prognostic significance of CD4+, FOXP3+ and IL-17+tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in ductal and lobular breast cancers
Authors: Droeser Raoul , Zlobec Inti , Kilic Ergin , Güth Uwe , Heberer Michael , Spagnoli Giulio , Oertli Daniel , Tapia Coya
Published: April 2012

Background

Clinical relevance of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer is controversial. Here, we used a tumor microarray including a large series of ductal and lobular breast cancers with long term follow up data, to analyze clinical impact of TIL expressing specific phenotypes and distribution of TILs within different tumor compartments and in different histological subtypes.

Methods

A tissue microarray (TMA) including 894 ductal and 164 lobular breast cancers was stained with antibodies recognizing CD4, FOXP3, and IL-17 by standard immunohistochemical techniques. Lymphocyte counts were correlated with clinico-pathological parameters and survival.

Results

CD4+lymphocytes were more prevalent than FOXP3+TILs whereas IL-17+TILs were rare. Increased numbers of total CD4+and FOXP3+TIL were observed in ductal, as compared with lobular carcinomas. High grade (G3) and estrogen receptor (ER) negative ductal carcinomas displayed significantly (p< 0.001) higher CD4+and FOXP3+lymphocyte infiltration while her2/neu over-expression in ductal carcinomas was significantly (p< 0.001) associated with higher FOXP3+TIL counts. In contrast, lymphocyte infiltration was not linked to any clinico-pathological parameters in lobular cancers. In univariate but not in multivariate analysis CD4+infiltration was associated with significantly shorter survival in patients bearing ductal, but not lobular cancers. However, a FOXP3+/CD4+ratio > 1 was associated with improved overall survival even in multivariate analysis (p= 0.033).

Conclusions

Ductal and lobular breast cancers appear to be infiltrated by different lymphocyte subpopulations. In ductal cancers increased CD4+and FOXP3+TIL numbers are associated with more aggressive tumor features. In survival analysis, absolute numbers of TILs do not represent major prognostic indicators in ductal and lobular breast cancer. Remarkably however, a ratio > 1 of total FOXP3+/CD4+TILs in ductal carcinoma appears to represent an independent favorable prognostic factor.
Eye care utilization by older adults in low, middle, and high income countries
Authors: Vela Claudia , Samson Elodie , Zunzunegui Maria Victoria , Haddad Slim , Aubin Marie-Josée , Freeman Ellen E
Published: April 2012

Background

The risk of visual impairment increases dramatically with age and therefore older adults should have their eyes examined at least every 1 to 2 years. Using a world-wide, population-based dataset, we sought to determine the frequency that older people had their eyes examined. We also examined factors associated with having a recent eye exam.

Methods

The World Health Surveys were conducted in 70 countries throughout the world in 2002-2003 using a random, multi-stage, stratified, cluster sampling design. Participants 60 years and older from 52 countries (n = 35,839) were asked "When was the last time you had your eyes examined by a medical professional?". The income status of countries was estimated using gross national income per capita data from 2003 from the World Bank website. Prevalence estimates were adjusted to account for the complex sample design.

Results

Overall, only 18% (95% CI 17, 19) of older adults had an eye exam in the last year. The rate of an eye exam in the last year in low, lower middle, upper middle, and high income countries was 10%, 24%, 22%, and 37% respectively. Factors associated with having an eye exam in the last year included older age, female gender, more education, urban residence, greater wealth, worse self-reported health, having diabetes, and wearing glasses or contact lenses (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Given that older adults often suffer from age-related but treatable conditions, they should be seen on a regular basis to prevent visual impairment and its disabling consequences.