bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A SYSTEM OF COUPLED SCHRÖDINGER EQUATIONS WITH TIME-OSCILLATING NONLINEARITY
Authors: CARVAJAL X. , GAMBOA P. , PANTHEE M.
Published: September 2012

This paper is concerned with the initial value problem (IVP) associated to the coupled system of supercritical nonlinear Schrödinger equations [Formula: see text] where θ1 and θ2 are periodic functions, which has applications in many physical problems, especially in nonlinear optics. We prove that, for given initial data φ, ψ ∈ H1(ℝn), as |ω| → ∞, the solution (uω, vω) of the above IVP converges to the solution (U, V) of the IVP associated to [Formula: see text] with the same initial data, where I(g) is the average of the periodic function g. Moreover, if the solution (U, V) is global and bounded, then we prove that the solution (uω, vω) is also global provided |ω| ≫ 1.
GELATION MECHANISMS
Authors: PEKCAN ÖNDER , KARA SELIM
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we survey the gelation mechanisms for various polymeric systems which are classified by the type and the strength of the cross-linkages. These are the "irreversible" gels that are cross-linked chemically by covalent bonds and the "reversible" gels that are cross-linked physically by hydrogen or ionic bonds and by the physical entanglement of polymer chains. Some of the natural polymer gels fall into the class of physical gels, among which the red algae that has attracted attention for various applications is discussed in detail. Various composite gels, formed from mixture of physical and chemical gels are also discussed in the last section of the article. Theoretical models describe the gelation as a process of random linking of subunits to larger and larger molecules by formation of an infinite network, where no matter what type of objects are linked, there is always a critical "gel point" at which the system behaves neither as a liquid nor as a solid on any length scale. The Flory–Stockmayer theory and percolation theory provide bases for modeling this sol–gel phase transition. The experimental techniques for measuring the critical exponents for sol–gel phase transitions in different polymeric systems are introduced and the validation of various theoretical predictions are surveyed.
THE EFFECT OF HIGHN-DOPED ANATASETiO2ON THE BAND GAP NARROWING AND REDSHIFT BY FIRST-PRINCIPLES
Authors: HOU QINGYU , JIN YONGJUN , YING CHUN , ZHAO ERJUN , ZHANG YUE , DONG HONGYING
Published: September 2012

Anatase TiO2supercells were studied by first-principles, in which one was undoped and another three were high N -doping. Partial densities of states, band structure, population and absorption spectrum were calculated. The calculated results indicated that in the condition of TiO2-xNx(x = 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25), the higher the doping concentration is, the shorter will be the lattice parameters parallel to the direction of c-axis. The strength of covalent bond significantly varied. The formation energy increases at first, and then decreases. The doping models become less stable as N -doping concentration increases. Meanwhile, the narrower the band gap is, the more significant will be the redshift, which is in agreement with the experimental results.
AUTOMORPHISMS OF PARTIALLY COMMUTATIVE GROUPS II: COMBINATORIAL SUBGROUPS
Authors: DUNCAN ANDREW J. , REMESLENNIKOV VLADIMIR N.
Published: September 2012

We define several "standard" subgroups of the automorphism group Aut (G) of a partially commutative (right-angled Artin) group and use these standard subgroups to describe decompositions of Aut (G). If C is the commutation graph of G, we show how Aut (G) decomposes in terms of the connected components of C: obtaining a particularly clear decomposition theorem in the special case where C has no isolated vertices. If C has no vertices of a type we call dominated then we give a semi-direct decomposition of Aut (G) into a subgroup of locally conjugating automorphisms by the subgroup stabilizing a certain lattice of "admissible subsets" of the vertices of C. We then characterize those graphs for which Aut (G) is a product (not necessarily semi-direct) of two such subgroups.
DISTANCE-RATIO LEARNING FOR DATA VISUALIZATION
Authors: HE GUANGHUI , SHANG ZHAOWEI , CHEN HENGXIN
Published: September 2012

Most dimensionality reduction methods depend significantly on the distance measure used to compute distances between different examples. Therefore, a good distance metric is essential to many dimensionality reduction algorithms. In this paper, we present a new dimensionality reduction method for data visualization, called Distance-ratio Preserving Embedding (DrPE), which preserves the ratio between the pairwise distances. It is achieved by minimizing the mismatch between the distance ratios derived from input and output space. The proposed method can preserve the relational structures among points of the input space. Extensive visualization experiments compared with existing dimensionality reduction algorithms demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method.
The Politics of Perspectivism
Authors: Ramos Alcida Rita
Published: September 2012

In recent decades, ethnographic research in Brazil has been influenced by a model termed perspectivism that inverts the equation between nature (as a given) and culture (as variable). Focusing on the interaction between humans and animals, this model attempts to generalize about thought processes across indigenous Amazonia, resulting in the proposition that nature is the variable whereas culture remains the same. The model's generality has resulted in a remarkable similarity of ethnographic interpretations, giving the false impression that the Amazon is a homogeneous culture area. This critique of perspectivism highlights its theoretical and empirical flaws and points out that the recurrent use of certain laden expressions can have adverse consequences for indigenous peoples.
Comparative Analysis of the Antioxidant Activity of Cassia fistula Extracts
Authors: Irshad Md. , Zafaryab Md. , Singh Man , Rizvi M. Moshahid A.
Published: September 2012

Antioxidant potential of various extracts of Cassia fistula was determined by the DPPH, FRAP, Fe3+ reducing power, and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assay. Methanolic extracts of Cassia fistula showed the highest amount of phenolic and flavonoid content and reducing capacity, whereas hexane extracts exhibited the lowest level of reducing capacity. The order of antioxidant activity in Cassia fistula extracts displayed from higher to lower level as methanolic extracts of pulp, methanolic extracts of seed, hexane extracts of pulp, and hexane extracts of seed. The antioxidant potential of Cassia fistula extracts significantly correlated () with the phenolic content of the methanolic extracts. Ascorbic acid taken as control showed highest antioxidant power in the present study.
CFD Simulation of Flow in an Abrasive Water Suspension Jet: The Effect of Inlet Operating Pressure and Volume Fraction on Skin Friction and Exit Kinetic Energy
Authors: Deepak D. , Anjaiah D. , Karanth K. Vasudeva , Sharma N. Yagnesh
Published: September 2012

Abrasive particles in the suspension mixture in an abrasive water suspension jet (AWSJ) machining causes acute skin friction effect thereby effectively changing the jet diameter due to wear, which in turn influences jet exit kinetic energy. This results in lowering the life of the jet for effective machining. In consideration of this aspect, the present work examines the effect of inlet pressure on skin friction coefficient and jet exit kinetic energy. It is inferred from the analysis that an increase in inlet pressure causes a significant increase in skin friction coefficient and also results in proportional increase in the exit kinetic energy of the jet. Further, it is revealed from the analysis that an increase volume fraction of abrasive (abrasive concentration) in water results in significant decrease in the skin friction coefficient and jet exit kinetic energy.
Characterization of Zebrafish von Willebrand Factor Reveals Conservation of Domain Structure, Multimerization, and Intracellular Storage
Authors: Ghosh Arunima , Vo Andy , Twiss Beverly K. , Kretz Colin A. , Jozwiak Mary A. , Montgomery Robert R. , Shavit Jordan A.
Published: September 2012

von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most common inherited human bleeding disorder and is caused by quantitative or qualitative defects in von Willebrand factor (VWF). VWF is a secreted glycoprotein that circulates as large multimers. While reduced VWF is associated with bleeding, elevations in overall level or multimer size are implicated in thrombosis. The zebrafish is a powerful genetic model in which the hemostatic system is well conserved with mammals. The ability of this organism to generate thousands of offspring and its optical transparency make it unique and complementary to mammalian models of hemostasis. Previously, partial clones of zebrafishvwfhave been identified, and some functional conservation has been demonstrated. In this paper we clone the complete zebrafishvwfcDNA and show that there is conservation of domain structure. Recombinant zebrafish Vwf forms large multimers and pseudo-Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs) in cell culture. Larval expression is in the pharyngeal arches, yolk sac, and intestinal epithelium. These results provide a foundation for continued study of zebrafish Vwf that may further our understanding of the mechanisms of VWD.
Viscosity Approximations by the Shrinking Projection Method of Quasi‐Nonexpansive Mappings for Generalized Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Wangkeeree Rabian , Nimana Nimit
Published: September 2012

We introduce viscosity approximations by using the shrinking projection method established by Takahashi, Takeuchi, and Kubota, for finding a common element of the set of solutions of the generalized equilibrium problem and the set of fixed points of a quasi‐nonexpansive mapping. Furthermore, we also consider the viscosity shrinking projection method for finding a common element of the set of solutions of the generalized equilibrium problem and the set of fixed points of the super hybrid mappings in Hilbert spaces.
Evaluation of Norepinephrine Transporter Expression and Metaiodobenzylguanidine Avidity in Neuroblastoma: A Report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: DuBois Steven G. , Geier Ethan , Batra Vandana , Yee Sook Wah , Neuhaus John , Segal Mark , Martinez Daniel , Pawel Bruce , Yanik Greg , Naranjo Arlene , London Wendy B. , Kreissman Susan , Baker David , Attiyeh Edward , Hogarty Michael D. , Maris John M. , Giacomini Kathleen , Matthay Katherine K.
Published: September 2012

Purpose. 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) is used for the diagnostic evaluation of neuroblastoma. We evaluated the relationship between norepinephrine transporter (NET) expression and clinical MIBG uptake. Methods. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (N=82) and immunohistochemistry (IHC; N=61) were performed for neuroblastoma NET mRNA and protein expression and correlated with MIBG avidity on diagnostic scans. The correlation of NET expression with clinical features was also performed. Results. Median NET mRNA expression level for the 19 MIBG avid patients was 12.9% (range 1.6–73.7%) versus 5.9% (range 0.6–110.0%) for the 8 nonavid patients (P=0.31). Median percent NET protein expression was 50% (range 0–100%) in MIBG avid patients compared to 10% (range 0–80%) in nonavid patients (P=0.027). MYCN amplified tumors had lower NET protein expression compared to nonamplified tumors (10% versus 50%; P=0.0002). Conclusions. NET protein expression in neuroblastoma correlates with MIBG avidity. MYCN amplified tumors have lower NET protein expression.
Characterization and Antiproliferative Activity of Nobiletin‐Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles
Authors: Luque-Alcaraz Ana G. , Lizardi Jaime , Goycoolea Francisco M. , Valdez Miguel A. , Acosta Ana L. , Iloki-Assanga Simon B. , Higuera-Ciapara Inocencio , Argüelles-Monal Waldo
Published: September 2012

Nobiletin is a polymethoxyflavonoid with a remarkable antiproliferative effect. In order to overcome its low aqueous solubility and chemical instability, the use of nanoparticles as carriers has been proposed. This study explores the possibility of binding nobiletin to chitosan nanoparticles, as well as to evaluate their antiproliferative activity. The association and loading efficiencies are 69.1% and 7.0%, respectively. The formation of an imine bond between chitosan amine groups and the carbonyl group of nobiletin, via Schiff‐base, is proposed. Nobiletin‐loaded chitosan nanoparticles exhibit considerable inhibition (IC50 = 8 μg/mL) of cancerous cells, revealing their great potential for applications in cancer chemotherapy.
Individual and Contextual Determinants of Periodontal Health in 12-Year-Old Schoolchildren in a Brazilian Capital City
Authors: Jordão Lidia Moraes Ribeiro , Vasconcelos Daniela Nobre , Moreira Rafael da Silveira , Freire Maria do Carmo Matias
Published: September 2012

The study aimed to describe periodontal health status and its association with individual and contextual factors among 12-year-old schoolchildren in a midwest Brazilian capital city. This cross-sectional study included data from an oral health survey carried out in 2010 in the city of Goiania, Brazil and secondary data obtained from the local health authority. Data were collected through oral clinical examinations and interviews. For assessment of periodontal status two components of the community periodontal index (CPI) were used: calculus and bleeding after probing. Dependent variable was presence of any periodontal condition. Independent individual variables were the children’s sex and color/race, and their mother’s level of schooling. Contextual variables were related to the schools (type and existence of toothbrushing program) and its geographic location in the health districts. Rao-Scott test and multilevel Poisson analysis were performed. The prevalence of calculus and/or bleeding was 7%. Brown color, public schools, and those located in health district with intermediate socioeconomic indicators were associated to a higher prevalence of this condition. The prevalence of adverse periodontal condition was low and the inequalities in its distribution were determined by individual as well as contextual factors related to the schools and the geographic area.
q‐Advanced Models for Tsunami and Rogue Waves
Authors: Pravica D. W. , Randriampiry N. , Spurr M. J.
Published: September 2012

A wavelet Kq(t), that satisfies the q‐advanced differential equation for q > 1, is used to model N‐wave oscillations observed in tsunamis. Although q‐advanced ODEs may seem nonphysical, we present an application that model tsunamis, in particular the Japanese tsunami of March 11, 2011, by utilizing a one‐dimensional wave equation that is forced by Fq(t, x) = Kq(t)qSin(x). The profile Fq is similar to tsunami models in present use. The function is a wavelet that satisfies a q‐advanced harmonic oscillator equation. It is also shown that another wavelet, , matches a rogue‐wave profile. This is explained in terms of a resonance wherein two small amplitude forcing waves eventually lead to a large amplitude rogue. Since wavelets are used in the detection of tsunamis and rogues, the signal‐analysis performance of Kq and is examined on actual data.
A Typical Bilateral Atrial Myxoma: A Case Report
Authors: Xiao Zhenghua , Meng Wei , Zhu Da , Zhang Eryong
Published: September 2012

Myxoma is a rare type of tumor which have an incidence of 0.0017% among the general population. Cardiac myxomas which arise from two different heart chambers is even extremely rare; we herein report a unique case of male patient with bilateral myxoma.
Coupled Coincidence Point Results for (ψ, α, β)‐Weak Contractions in Partially Ordered Metric Spaces
Authors: Razani A. , Parvaneh V.
Published: September 2012

In this paper coupled coincidence points of mappings satisfying a nonlinear contractive condition in the framework of partially ordered metric spaces are obtained. Our results extend the results of Harjani et al. (2011). Moreover, an example of the main result is given. Finally, some coupled coincidence point results for mappings satisfying some contraction conditions of integral type in partially ordered complete metric spaces are deduced.
Redesigning Human Body Systems: Effective Pedagogical Strategy for Promoting Active Learning and STEM Education
Authors: Cherif Abour H. , Jedlicka Dianne M. , Colyer Tracey E. , Movahedzadeh Farahnaz , Phillips William B.
Published: September 2012

The human body is a remarkable biological machine maintained by interdependent body systems and organized biochemical reactions. Evolution has worked on humans for hundreds of thousands of years, yet the current pace of technological and social change have radically affected our life style and have exposed possible human frailties. This raises the question of whether or not nature’s work could be improved upon. We provide two-sided perspectives as a rationale for the need for the redesign of the human body. Then, we describe pedagogical strategy through which students study morphological and anatomical structures and the physiological functions of the human body systems and their respective organs and parts. The students select their own favorite system or organ to redesign in order to optimize the efficiency of the anatomical structural, physiological function, and/or the aesthetic and functional morphology; a redesign that might lead to, for example, lowering risk of diabetes, heart attack, and/or stroke. Through group work and interaction (student groups compete for a prestigious “in-house” patent award), students actively engage in the learning process in order to understand the role of design in the efficiency and functionality and vulnerability to disease of the human body system.
Robust Anti‐Windup Control Considering Multiple Design Objectives
Authors: Ge Dongming , Sun Guanghui , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: September 2012

A new saturation control technique is proposed to design multiobjective and robust anti‐windup controllers for linear systems with input saturations. Based on the characterization of saturation nonlinearities and modeling uncertainties via integral quadratic constraints (IQCs), this method considers a mixed H2/H∞ performance indexes while maintaining dynamic constraints on the controller. The analysis and synthesis conditions are presented in terms of scaled linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). The proposed control algorithm can improve the performance of the input‐constrained system while also guaranteeing robustness with respect to the modeling uncertainties. Finally, a numerical
example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the developed techniques.
Weight and Body Composition Changes during the First Three Years of College
Authors: Gropper Sareen S. , Simmons Karla P. , Connell Lenda Jo , Ulrich Pamela V.
Published: September 2012

Differences in weight, body mass index (BMI), percent and absolute body fat, fat-free mass, and waist circumference were investigated in a group of males and females during the first three years (from 2007 to 2010) of college. Significant three-year gains were observed for weight2.1±4.7 kg, BMI0.7±1.6 kg/m2, percent body fat2.7±3.3%, and fat mass2.3±3.5 kg. A significant loss of fat-free mass, −0.5 kg, was observed among females. Absolute gains in weight, BMI, and percent and absolute body fat were highest during the freshman year, followed by the junior year, and lowest during the sophomore year. Among the 70% of students gaining weight over the three years, weight gain averaged 4.3 kg. The numbers of females with over 30% body fat doubled, and the number of males with over 20% body fat increased fivefold. Initially 15% of students were classified as obese/overweight and 79% normal weight; by the end of the junior year, 24% were obese/overweight and 70% were normal weight. Efforts on college campuses to promote healthy lifestyles among its student population are needed throughout the college years.
Angioneurotic Edema Associated with Haloperidol
Authors: Kahlon Samrina , Lee Cathy , Chirurgi Roger , Worku Hassen Getaw
Published: September 2012

Background. Angioneurotic edema is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires urgent diagnosis and treatment. Haloperidol is in the butyrophenone class of antipsychotic medications. Acute anaphylaxis to Haloperidol is very rare and no cases have been reported in literature.Objective. To report the association of life-threatening angioneurotic edema with intramuscular Haloperidol.Case Report. We present a case of an adult with no known allergies in whom angioneurotic edema with tongue swelling and protrusion developed after the administration of a single IM dose of Haloperidol.Conclusion. We propose angioneurotic edema in a rare side effect of Haloperidol. The onset of the symptoms is abrupt, but it may take 12–36 hours to resolve completely. Therefore patient should be monitored for 12–36 hrs.
HSP70 and HSP90 Differentially Regulate Translocation of Extracellular Antigen to the Cytosol for Cross-Presentation
Authors: Kato Yu , Kajiwara Chiaki , Ishige Ikuo , Mizukami Shusaku , Yamazaki Chihiro , Eikawa Shingo , Kakimi Kazuhiro , Udono Heiichiro
Published: September 2012

Antigens (Ag) from cancer or virus-infected cells must be internalized by dendritic cells (DCs) to be presented to CD8+T cells, which eventually differentiate into Ag-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that destroy cancer cells and infected cells. This pathway is termed cross-presentation and is also implicated as an essential step in triggering autoimmune diseases such as Type I diabetes. Internalized Ag locates within endosomes, followed by translocation through a putative pore structure spanning endosomal membranes into the cytosol, where it is degraded by the proteasome to generate antigen peptides. During translocation, Ag is believed to be unfolded since the pore size is too narrow to accept native Ag structure. Here, we show that paraformaldehyde-fixed, structurally inflexible Ag is less efficient in cross-presentation because of diminished translocation into the cytosol, supporting the “unfolded Ag” theory. We also show that HSP70 inhibitors block both endogenous and cross-presentation. ImageStream analysis revealed that the inhibition in cross-presentation is not due to blocking of Ag translocation because a HSP70 inhibitor rather facilitates the translocation, which is in marked contrast to the effect of an HSP90 inhibitor that blocks Ag translocation. Our results indicate that Ag translocation to the cytosol in cross-presentation is differentially regulated by HSP70 and HSP90.
Adrenomedullin as a Growth and Cell Fate Regulatory Factor for Adult Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Martínez-Herrero Sonia , Larráyoz Ignacio M. , Ochoa-Callejero Laura , García-Sanmartín Josune , Martínez Alfredo
Published: September 2012

The use of stem cells as a strategy for tissue repair and regeneration is one of the biomedical research areas that has attracted more interest in the past few years. Despite the classic belief that the central nervous system (CNS) was immutable, now it is well known that cell turnover occurs in the mature CNS. Postnatal neurogenesis is subjected to tight regulation by many growth factors, cell signals, and transcription factors. An emerging molecule involved in this process is adrenomedullin (AM). AM, a 52-amino acid peptide which exerts a plethora of physiological functions, acts as a growth and cell fate regulatory factor for adult neural stem and progenitor cells. AM regulates the proliferation rate and the differentiation into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes of stem/progenitor cells, probably through the PI3K/Akt pathway. The active peptides derived from the AM gene are able to regulate the cytoskeleton dynamics, which is extremely important for mature neural cell morphogenesis. In addition, a defective cytoskeleton may impair cell cycle and migration, so AM may contribute to neural stem cell growth regulation by allowing cells to pass through mitosis. Regulation of AM levels may contribute to program stem cells for their use in medical therapies.
The Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in Huntington’s Disease: Are Proteasomes Impaired, Initiators of Disease, or Coming to the Rescue?
Authors: Schipper-Krom Sabine , Juenemann Katrin , Reits Eric A. J.
Published: September 2012

Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the huntingtin protein. A prominent hallmark of the disease is the presence of intracellular aggregates initiated by N-terminal huntingtin fragments containing the polyglutamine repeat, which recruit components of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. While it is commonly thought that proteasomes are irreversibly sequestered into these aggregates leading to impairment of the ubiquitin-proteasome system, the data on proteasomal impairment in Huntington’s disease is contradictory. In addition, it has been suggested that proteasomes are unable to actually cleave polyglutamine sequencesin vitro, thereby releasing aggregation-prone polyglutamine peptides in cells. Here, we discuss how the proteasome is involved in the various stages of polyglutamine aggregation in Huntington’s disease, and how alterations in activity may improve clearance of mutant huntingtin fragments.
Development and Application of an ELISA Assay Using Excretion/Secretion Proteins from Epimastigote Forms ofT. cruzi(ESEA Antigens) for the Diagnosis of Chagas Disease
Authors: Berrizbeitia Mariolga , Figueroa Milagros , Ward Brian J. , Rodríguez Jessicca , Jorquera Alicia , Figuera Maria A. , Romero Leomerys , Ndao Momar
Published: September 2012

An indirect enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) forTrypanosoma cruziwas developed using epimastigote secretion/excretion proteins (ESEA antigens) obtained from axenic culture supernatants. A panel of 120 serum samples from subjects with confirmed Chagas disease(n=50), healthy controls(n=50), and patients with other parasitic diseases(n=20)was used to evaluate the new ESEA-based ELISA (ELISAESEA). This new test had excellent sensitivity (98%) and acceptable specificity (88%). Cross-reactivity was observed largely in sera from subjects withLeishmaniaandAscarisinfections. Using Western blotting and epimastigotes from two distinctT. cruziisolates, several polypeptide bands with molecular masses ranging from 50 to 220 kDa were detected in pooled chagasic sera. However, the band pattern for each isolate was different. These data suggest that an inexpensive and technically simple ELISA based on ESEA antigens is a promising new tool for the diagnosis of Chagas disease.
In Vitro Characterization of Pluronic F127 and D‐α‐Tocopheryl Polyethylene Glycol 1000 Succinate Mixed Micelles as Nanocarriers for Targeted Anticancer‐Drug Delivery
Authors: Butt Adeel Masood , Amin Mohd Cairul Iqbal Mohd , Katas Haliza , Sarisuta Narong , Witoonsaridsilp Wasu , Benjakul Ruthairat
Published: September 2012

Mixed micelles of Pluronic F127 and d‐α‐tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS) in different molar ratios (10 : 0, 7 : 3, 5 : 5, and 3 : 7) were prepared to characterize this system as nanocarriers for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic agents. Their size, zeta potential, critical micelle concentration, drug loading content, entrapment efficiency, drug release, cytotoxicity, and stability in serum were evaluated in vitro by using doxorubicin as the model anticancer drug. The micellar sizes ranged from 25 to 35 nm. The 7 : 3 and 5 : 5 micellar combinations had lower critical micelle concentrations (5 × 10−5 M) than the 10 : 0 combination (5 × 10−4 M). The entrapment efficiencies of the 7 : 3, 5 : 5, and 3 : 7 micellar combinations were 72%, 88%, and 69%, respectively. Doxorubicin release was greater at acidic tumour pH than at normal physiological pH. The doxorubicin‐loaded mixed micelles showed greater percent inhibition and apoptosis activity in human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF‐7) and acute monocytic leukaemia (THP‐1) cell lines than free doxorubicin did. The mixed micelles were also stable against aggregation and precipitation in serum. These findings suggest that Pluronic F127‐TPGS mixed micelles could be used as nanocarriers for targeted anticancer‐drug delivery.
Borate Crystals for Nonlinear Optical and Laser Applications: A Review
Authors: Arun Kumar R.
Published: September 2012

The development of borate‐based single crystals for laser and frequency conversion applications is reviewed. The basic idea behind nonlinear optics and the role of anionic groups in the borate crystals are summarized. The properties of borate crystals—BBO, LBO, CBO, KBBF, SBBO, CLBO, YCOB, GdCOB, GdYCOB, KAB and LCB—are discussed. The growth and characterization of several rare earth‐based borate crystals are mainly focused. Several borate crystals are grown from the melt techniques and a few crystals are grown adopting the flux technique. Many rare earth‐based borate crystals are extensively used in device applications as they exhibit the frequency conversion ability along with high laser‐induced damage tolerance.
Ultrasound-Targeted Microbubble Destruction to Deliver siRNA Cancer Therapy
Authors: Carson Andrew R. , McTiernan Charles F. , Lavery Linda , Grata Michelle , Leng Xiaoping , Wang Jianjun , Chen Xucai , Villanueva Flordeliza S.
Published: September 2012

Microbubble contrast agents can specifically deliver nucleic acids to target tissues when exposed to ultrasound treatment parameters that mediate microbubble destruction. In this study, we evaluated whether microbubbles and ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) could be used to enhance delivery of EGF receptor (EGFR)–directed siRNA to murine squamous cell carcinomas. Custom-designed microbubbles efficiently bound siRNA and mediated RNAse protection. UTMD-mediated delivery of microbubbles loaded with EGFR-directed siRNA to murine squamous carcinoma cells in vitro reduced EGFR expression and EGF-dependent growth, relative to delivery of control siRNA. Similarly, serial UTMD-mediated delivery of EGFR siRNA to squamous cell carcinoma in vivo decreased EGFR expression and increased tumor doubling time, relative to controls receiving EGFR siRNA-loaded microbubbles but not ultrasound or control siRNA-loaded microbubbles and UTMD. Taken together, our results offer a preclinical proof-of-concept for customized microbubbles and UTMD to deliver gene-targeted siRNA for cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 72(23); 6191–9. ©2012 AACR.
Home Mechanical Ventilation through Mask: Monitoring Leakage and Nocturnal Oxygenation at Home
Authors: Fernandez Alvarez Ramon , Rubinos Cuadrado Gemma , Rodriguez Jerez Francisco , Garcia Garcia Almudena , Rodriguez Menendez Patricia , Casan Clara Pere
Published: September 2012

Background: Leakage is common in patients receiving home mechanical ventilation (HMV) via a face mask. Although pressure ventilators have partial compensatory capacity, excessive leakage can compromise the effectiveness of treatment. Home ventilators are equipped with built-in software which provides information on leakage. However, the values of leakage and their effects in routine clinical practice are currently little known. Objective: To measure leakage in stable patients on nocturnal HMV and its impact on treatment effectiveness. Methods: Consecutive outpatients on HMV were recruited. Nocturnal pulse oximetry was performed at home and leakage was measured using the ventilator’s built-in software. We measured: mean SpO2, percentage of time with SpO2 <90% (T90), mean leakage (meanL), maximum leakage (maxL), and minimum leakage (minL) during the ventilation session. We estimated ventilator capacity to compensate for leakage according to inspiratory positive airway pressure and divided the patients into two groups: those with leak compensation and those without. Results: The study included 41 patients [mean age, 64 years (SD 11.9); 23 (56%) women]. Nocturnal pulse oximetry showed an SpO2 of 94% (±2.9) and a T90 of 10% (±21.7). Leakage (in l/min) was: meanL, 32.2 (±15.3); maxL, 64.8 (±28.5), and minL, 18.8 (±10.6). Seven cases (17%) had leakage greater than the ventilator compensatory capacity, but no significant difference in SpO2 or T90 was observed between patients with or without leak compensation. Conclusions: A wide variation between maxL and minL was observed in our series; 17% of cases had higher leakage values than the compensatory capacity of the ventilator, but this did not affect nocturnal oxygenation.
The Effectiveness of Single-Dose Fosfomycin as Antimicrobial Prophylaxis for Patients Undergoing Transrectal Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy of the Prostate
Authors: Ongün Şakir , Aslan Güven , Avkan-Oguz Vildan
Published: September 2012

Objectives: It was the aim of this study to evaluate the efficacy of single-dose fosfomycin prophylaxis as an alternative to fluoroquinolone-based prophylaxis in transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy of the prostate (TRUSBP). Methods: We evaluated the records of 620 patients who had undergone TRUSBP from January 2010 to July 2011. Patients received a single dose of 3 g oral fosfomycin or a single dose of 500 mg oral levofloxacin or 500 mg oral ciprofloxacin twice daily administered for 5 days starting 1 day before the prophylaxis procedure. We reviewed all febrile and afebrile urinary tract infections (UTIs) within 1 month after TRUSBP. Results: Of the 620 patients, 19 (3.0%) developed febrile UTI and 51 (8.2%) developed afebrile UTI after biopsy. Of the 19 patients with febrile UTI, 1/19 (5.2%) received fosfomycin, 4/19 (21%) received levofloxacin and 14/19 (73.6%) received ciprofloxacin for prophylaxis. Of the 51 patients with afebrile UTI, 4/51 (7.8%) received fosfomycin, 8/51 (15.6%) received levofloxacin and 39/51 (76.4%) received ciprofloxacin for prophylaxis. There were a total of 10 fluoroquinolone-resistant infections, and all of them occurred after the ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin prophylaxis and none after fosfomycin prophylaxis. Conclusions: The ease of use of fosfomycin, reducing the rate of fluoroquinolone-resistant infections and hospitalizations shows that it would be an alternative and effective drug for antimicrobial prophylaxis in TRUSBP.
Optical Coherence Tomography Findings in Lesions After Sirolimus-Eluting Stent Implantation With Peri-Stent Contrast Staining
Authors: Tada Takeshi , Kadota Kazushige , Hosogi Shingo , Kubo Shunsuke , Ozaki Masatomo , Yoshino Mitsuru , Miyake Koshi , Eguchi Haruki , Ohashi Noriyuki , Hayakawa Yuki , Saito Naoki , Otsuru Suguru , Hasegawa Daiji , Shigemoto Yoshikazu , Habara Seiji , Imai Masao , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Fuku Yasushi , Oka Naoki , Kato Harumi , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Fujii Satoki , Goto Tsuyoshi , Mitsudo Kazuaki
Published: September 2012

Background—

We have sometimes noted abnormal angiographic coronary dilatation, <50% of the reference vessel, at the site of sirolimus-eluting stent implantation, suggesting contrast staining outside the stent struts and named this finding peri-stent contrast staining (PSS). Little was known about optical coherence tomography findings of lesions with PSS.

Methods and Results—

Between May 2008 and March 2010, we performed optical coherence tomography for 90 in-stent restenosis lesions after sirolimus-eluting stent implantation. We found PSS in 20 of the 90 lesions by coronary angiography. The differences in optical coherence tomography findings, including incomplete stent apposition, multiple interstrut hollows (MIH), strut coverage, and thrombus, were compared between lesions with PSS and those without PSS. PSS is defined as contrast staining outside the stent contour extending to >20% of the stent diameter measured by quantitative coronary angiography. MIH is defined as multiple hollows (the maximum depth >0.5 mm) existing between and outside well-apposed stent struts. Both incomplete stent apposition (60.0% versus 10%;
P
<0.001) and MIH (85.0% versus 25.7%;
P
<0.001) were frequently observed in lesions with PSS than in lesions without PSS. Among the 20 lesions with PSS, there was only 1 lesion in which we found neither MIH nor incomplete stent apposition, but only minor dissection. Uncovered struts (11.6% versus 3.9%;
P
=0.001), malapposed struts (2.0% versus 0.0%;
P
<0.001), and red thrombus (35% versus 10%;
P
=0.012) were frequently observed in lesions with PSS than in lesions without PSS.

Conclusions—

PSS might be closely associated with 2 different optical coherence tomography findings, MIH and incomplete stent apposition, in lesions after sirolimus-eluting stent implantation.
Validating the Stroke-Thrombolytic Predictive Instrument in a Population in the United Kingdom
Authors: McMeekin Peter , Flynn Darren , Ford Gary A. , Rodgers Helen , Thomson Richard G.
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose—

This study aimed to test the explanatory qualities of the Stroke-Thrombolytic Predictive Instrument (S-TPI) when applied to patients treated in routine practice.

Methods—

S-TPI predictions were compared with observed outcomes in terms of normal/near-normal (modified Rankin Scale score, ≤1) and catastrophic outcome (modified Rankin Scale score, ≥5) at 3 months. Logistic regression was used to calibrate and expand the S-TPI.

Results—

The S-TPI overestimated probability of catastrophic outcomes and overestimated the probability of a normal/near normal outcome above 0.4 and underestimated those below. Calibrating the S-TPI minimized discrepancies between predicted and observed outcomes, in the case of normal/near-normal outcomes, where including additional predictors (serum glucose and signs of current infarction on pretreatment brain scan) further reduced discrepancies between predicted and observed outcomes.

Conclusions—

The explanatory power of the S-TPI in thrombolytic-treated patients can be improved to reflect outcomes seen in routine practice.
The Effect of Tropospheric Jet Latitude on Coupling between the Stratospheric Polar Vortex and the Troposphere
Authors: Garfinkel Chaim I. , Waugh Darryn W. , Gerber Edwin P.
Published: September 2012

A dry general circulation model is used to investigate how coupling between the stratospheric polar vortex and the extratropical tropospheric circulation depends on the latitude of the tropospheric jet. The tropospheric response to an identical stratospheric vortex configuration is shown to be strongest for a jet centered near 40° and weaker for jets near either 30° or 50° by more than a factor of 3. Stratosphere-focused mechanisms based on stratospheric potential vorticity inversion, eddy phase speed, and planetary wave reflection, as well as arguments based on tropospheric eddy heat flux and zonal length scale, appear to be incapable of explaining the differences in the magnitude of the jet shift. In contrast, arguments based purely on tropospheric variability involving the strength of eddy–zonal mean flow feedbacks and jet persistence, and related changes in the synoptic eddy momentum flux, appear to explain this effect. The dependence of coupling between the stratospheric polar vortex and the troposphere on tropospheric jet latitude found here is consistent with 1) the observed variability in the North Atlantic and the North Pacific and 2) the trend in the Southern Hemisphere as projected by comprehensive models.
Commentary: Is Robotic Thyroid Surgery Worth the Learning Curve?
Authors: Gross Neil D.
Published: September 2012

There are numerous potential applications of robotic technology to head and neck procedures, including thyroidectomy. The learning curve for robotic thyroid surgery appears to be steep, as highlighted in a study published in this issue. This commentary explores the challenges with learning robotic thyroid surgery and questions the potential risks and benefits of increased adoption of this approach.
Adaptive Functioning in Children With Epilepsy and Learning Problems
Authors: Buelow Janice M. , Perkins Susan M. , Johnson Cynthia S. , Byars Anna W. , Fastenau Philip S. , Dunn David W. , Austin Joan K.
Published: September 2012

In the study we describe adaptive functioning in children with epilepsy whose primary caregivers identified them as having learning problems. This was a cross-sectional study of 50 children with epilepsy and learning problems. Caregivers supplied information regarding the child’s adaptive functioning and behavior problems. Children rated their self-concept and completed a battery of neuropsychological tests. Mean estimated IQ (PPVT-III) in the participant children was 72.8 (SD = 18.3). On average, children scored 2 standard deviations below the norm on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale–II and this was true even for children with epilepsy who had estimated IQ in the normal range. In conclusion, children with epilepsy and learning problems had relatively low adaptive functioning scores and substantial neuropsychological and mental health problems. In epilepsy, adaptive behavior screening can be very informative and guide further evaluation and intervention, even in those children whose IQ is in the normal range.
Including social discourses and experience in research on refugees, race, and ethnicity
Authors: Cresswell James
Published: September 2012

In Discourse & Society, there has been discussion of accounting practices involving refugees, racism, and ethnicity. Some of these articles note that discursive psychology’s emphasis on in-situ constructions leads to a situation where it does not allow us to fully grasp social discourses. This article addresses this critique by discussing conversation analysis and ethnomethodology. It then adds to this discussion by proposing that linguistically constituted phenomenological experience – a topic important in reference to refugees, racism, and ethnicity – is also bypassed by discourse analysis. It draws upon Mikhail Bakhtin’s early work and on how experience is bound to social discourse. By proposing how Bakhtin meshes with Garfinkel and conversation analysis, it is possible to approach experience using techniques put forward by these perspectives. The result is a proposed way to research social discourse and experience, thereby enhancing discursive analysis.
The Validation of the Checklist of Controlling Behaviors (CCB)
Authors: Lehmann Peter , Simmons Catherine A. , Pillai Vijayan K.
Published: September 2012

The current study addresses the validation of the Checklist of Controlling Behaviors (CCB), an 84-item domestic violence assessment instrument that can be used to address multiple levels of violence and coercive control in violent relationships. Derived from clinical observation and current theories, the CCB makes use of intimate partner violence survivor reports to identify the intensity and frequency of relationship violence. The instrument is divided into 10 subscales including (1) physical abuse, (2) sexual abuse, (3) male privilege, (4) isolation, (5) minimizing and denying, (6) blaming, (7) intimidation, (8) threats, (9) emotional abuse, and (10) economic abuse. To assess validity and reliability of the CCB, 2,135 female volunteers taking refuge at a domestic violence shelter were administered the instrument. Results of principal component analysis of the individual subscales revealed 10 factors having goodness-of-fit values above the desired normative level of .90
The fractal queerness of non-heteronormative migrants working in the UK sex industry
Authors: Mai Nick
Published: September 2012

Contemporary debates on migration and the sex industry have been characterized by a marked emphasis on the extent of trafficking and exploitation of migrant women in heterosexist contexts and relationships. Migrant sex workers’ complex understandings of exploitation and advantage have been reductively manipulated into a heteronormative dichotomy between free (male) migrants and (female) coerced victims. In the process, non-heteronormative migrant sex workers’ experiences of advantage and exploitation were neglected. This article draws on original research material and findings about the specific life and work trajectories of non-heteronormative people working in the UK sex industry. It focuses on the way they understand the opportunities and predicaments posed by the homonormative and heteronormative worlds they ambivalently reproduce and challenge by migrating and working in the global sex industry.
How equal is equality? Discussions about same-sex marriage in Portugal
Authors: Brandão Ana Maria Simões Azevedo , Machado Tânia Cristina
Published: September 2012

In Portugal, public and political discussions about same-sex marriage have been going on since the 1990s. In 2010, same-sex marriage was legalized under intense dispute since it excludes same-sex couples from adoption and reproductive rights. During parliamentary debates, political parties and civil organizations linked to the Catholic Church resorted to conflicting ideas of ‘equality’ and ‘difference’ to advance their claims. In this article, we analyse the contents of petitions, bills and parliamentary proceedings concerning the legal recognition of same-sex unions, highlighting the presence of conflicting notions of equality linked to pervasive beliefs about the inadequacy of homo-erotic desire and practices.
Pay v UK, the probation service and consensual BDSM sexual citizenship
Authors: Chatterjee Bela Bonita
Published: September 2012

Against a negative background, recent scholarship indicates a socio-cultural and medical reconceptualisation of consensual BDSM. At a point where consensual BDSM appears to be on the cusp of a new understanding and the question of full inclusion in the polity arises, any new legal frustration of its expression may have profound impacts, particularly in terms of citizenship claims. Focusing on the European Court of Human Rights’ decision in Pay v UK (2009) concerning the dismissal of a self-identified BDSM probation officer, this article considers the case’s significance for the development of consensual BDSM as a rights-bearing identity before the law and in relation to questions of sexual citizenship. Noting how the Court relies on negative and distorted stereotypes of consensual BDSM, this article further observes how the expulsion of the consensual BDSM identity from the probation service is rendered necessary to maintain the sexually normative coherence of the polity and, in the context of the Pay case, the civil institutions that regulate it.
Pathologising healthy children? A review of the literature exploring the mental health of HIV-affected children in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Skovdal Morten
Published: September 2012

This article reviews the expanding body of literature that examines the mental health of HIV-affected children in sub-Saharan Africa. Focusing on primary research across disciplines and methodologies, the review examines the use of universalistic assumptions about childhood adversity and mental health in driving forward this body of research. Of the 31 articles identified for this review, 23 had a focus on the psychological distress experienced by HIV-affected children, while only 8 explored social psychological pathways to improved mental health, resilience and coping. The article argues that this preoccupation with pathology reflects global assemblages of definitions, understandings and practices that constitute the global mental health framework. While such a focus is useful for policy interventions and the mobilisation of resources to support children living in HIV-affected communities, it overshadows more culturally relevant and strengths-based conceptualisations of how mental health is understood and can be achieved in different parts of Africa. Furthermore, a continued focus on the psychological distress experienced by HIV-affected children runs the risk of medicalising their social experiences, which in turn may transform the social landscape in which children give meaning to loss and difficult experiences. The article concludes that mental health professionals and researchers need to take heed of the biopolitical implications of their work, and argues for more community-oriented and resilience-enhancing research that brings forward the voices of local people to inform interventions tackling the psychosocial challenges inevitably experienced by many children in sub-Saharan Africa.