bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Regression after Extensive Recurrence of a Pediatric Cervical Spine Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
Authors: Brembilla Carlo , Lanterna Luigi Andrea , Bosisio Michela , Gritti Paolo , Risso Andrea , Signorelli Antonio , Biroli Francesco
Published: January 2014

Aneurysmal bone cyst is a pseudotumoral lesion. Complete resection prior to selective arterial embolization seems to be the treatment of choice for the more extensive and destructive lesions. In these cases maintaining stability of the cervical spine is critical. This can be very challenging in children and adolescents in whom the axial skeleton is still growing. In this case a young girl presented with a voluminous cervical aneurysmal bone cyst encaging both vertebral arteries and spinal cord. The lesion was treated with aggressive surgical resection, followed by cervical vertebral fusion with instrumentation. After nine months the patient referred no pain and no neurological deficit. MRI scans showed an extensive local recurrence. The family of the young girl refused any other therapy and any other followup. The patients returned to our attention after five years with no pain and neurological deficit. Cervical spine radiographs and MRI scans showed a complete regression of the extensive local recurrence. In the literature, the possibility of spontaneous regression of residual part or local recurrence is reported. The case of this young girl provided the chance to attend a spontaneous regression in an extensive recurrence of aneurismal bone cyst.
Trophoblastic Infiltration in Tubal Pregnancy Evaluated by Immunohistochemistry and Correlation with Variation of Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Authors: Ferreira Danyelle Farias , Elito Júnior Julio , Araujo Júnior Edward , Stavale João Norberto , Camano Luiz , Moron Antonio Fernandes
Published: January 2014

Objective. To evaluate trophoblastic cell proliferation and angiogenesis in tubal pregnancy assessed by immunohistochemical study and their correlation with an average variation of β-hCG in an interval of 48 hours before surgery. Methods. A prospective study was conducted on 18 patients with a diagnosis of tubal pregnancy. The patients were divided into two groups of ectopic pregnancy of which 11 showed rise of β-hCG levels and 7 patients showed declining β-hCG levels in an interval of 48 hours prior to surgery. Trophoblastic cell proliferation and angiogenesis were assessed by Ki-67 and VEGF, respectively. Trophoblastic cell proliferation was assessed by Ki-67 and was classified into three groups (grade I: less than 1/3 of stained nuclei, grade II: 1/3 to 2/3 of the stained nuclei, and grade III: more than 2/3 of the nuclei stained). The cases analyzed for VEGF were divided into three groups (grade I: less than 1/3 of the stained cytoplasm; grade II: 1/3 to 2/3 of the stained cytoplasm; grade III: more than 2/3 of the stained cytoplasm). Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results. The mean variation in the serum β-hCG levels in 48 hours in tubal pregnancy patients correlated with trophoblastic cell proliferation assessed by Ki-67 and showed a decline of 13.46% in grade I, a rise of 45.99% in grade II, and ascension of 36.68% in grade III (P=0.030). The average variation in the serum β-hCG in 48 hours, where angiogenesis was evaluated by VEGF, showed a decline of 18.35% in grade I, a rise of 32.95% in grade II, and ascension of 37.55% in grade III (P=0.047). Conclusions. Our observations showed a direct correlation of increased levels of serum β-hCG in 48h period prior to surgery with higher trophoblastic cell proliferation assessed by Ki-67 and angiogenesis assessed by VEGF in tubal pregnancy.
Assessment of Genetic Diversity of ZoonoticBrucellaspp. Recovered from Livestock in Egypt Using Multiple Locus VNTR Analysis
Authors: Menshawy Ahmed M. S. , Perez-Sancho Marta , Garcia-Seco Teresa , Hosein Hosein I. , García Nerea , Martinez Irene , Sayour Ashraf E. , Goyache Joaquín , Azzam Ragab A. A. , Dominguez Lucas , Alvarez Julio
Published: January 2014

Brucellosis is endemic in most parts of Egypt, where it is caused mainly byBrucella melitensisbiovar 3, and affects cattle and small ruminants in spite of ongoing efforts devoted to its control. Knowledge of the predominantBrucellaspecies/strains circulating in a region is a prerequisite of a brucellosis control strategy. For this reason a study aiming at the evaluation of the phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity of a panel of 17Brucellaspp. isolates recovered from domestic ruminants (cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goat) from four governorates during a period of five years (2002–2007) was carried out using microbiological tests and molecular biology techniques (PCR, MLVA-15, and sequencing). Thirteen strains were identified asB. melitensisbiovar 3 while all phenotypic and genetic techniques classified the remaining isolates asB. abortus(n=2) andB. suisbiovar 1 (n=2). MLVA-15 yielded a high discriminatory power (h=0.801), indicating a high genetic diversity among theB. melitensisstrains circulating among domestic ruminants in Egypt. This is the first report of the isolation ofB. suisfrom cattle in Egypt which, coupled with the finding ofB. abortus, suggests a potential role of livestock as reservoirs of several zoonoticBrucellaspecies in the region.
Rhythm Analysis during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Ruiz de Gauna Sofia , Irusta Unai , Ruiz Jesus , Ayala Unai , Aramendi Elisabete , Eftestøl Trygve
Published: January 2014

Survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest depends largely on two factors: early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation. CPR must be interrupted for a reliable automated rhythm analysis because chest compressions induce artifacts in the ECG. Unfortunately, interrupting CPR adversely affects survival. In the last twenty years, research has been focused on designing methods for analysis of ECG during chest compressions. Most approaches are based either on adaptive filters to remove the CPR artifact or on robust algorithms which directly diagnose the corrupted ECG. In general, all the methods report low specificity values when tested on short ECG segments, but how to evaluate the real impact on CPR delivery of continuous rhythm analysis during CPR is still unknown. Recently, researchers have proposed a new methodology to measure this impact. Moreover, new strategies for fast rhythm analysis during ventilation pauses or high-specificity algorithms have been reported. Our objective is to present a thorough review of the field as the starting point for these late developments and to underline the open questions and future lines of research to be explored in the following years.
Effect of Temperature on Chinese Rice Wine Brewing with High Concentration Presteamed Whole Sticky Rice
Authors: Liu Dengfeng , Zhang Hong-Tao , Xiong Weili , Hu Jianhua , Xu Baoguo , Lin Chi-Chung , Xu Ling , Jiang Lihua
Published: January 2014

Production of high quality Chinese rice wine largely depends on fermentation temperature. However, there is no report on the ethanol, sugars, and acids kinetics in the fermentation mash of Chinese rice wine treated at various temperatures. The effects of fermentation temperatures on Chinese rice wine quality were investigated. The compositions and concentrations of ethanol, sugars, glycerol, and organic acids in the mash of Chinese rice wine samples were determined by HPLC method. The highest ethanol concentration and the highest glycerol concentration both were attained at the fermentation mash treated at 23°C. The highest peak value of maltose (90 g/L) was obtained at 18°C. Lactic acid and acetic acid both achieved maximum values at 33°C. The experimental results indicated that temperature contributed significantly to the ethanol production, acid flavor contents, and sugar contents in the fermentation broth of the Chinese rice wines.
The Radon Transforms on the Generalized Heisenberg Group
Authors: Liu Tianwu , He Jianxun
Published: January 2014

Let Hna be the generalized Heisenberg group. In this paper, we study the inversion of the Radon transforms on Hna. Several kinds of inversion Radon transform formulas are established. One is obtained from the Euclidean Fourier transform; the other is derived from the differential operator with respect to the center variable t. Also by using sub-Laplacian and generalized sub-Laplacian we deduce an inversion formula of the Radon transform on Hna.
Validation of Shape Context Based Image Registration Method Using Digital Image Correlation Measurement on a Rat Stomach
Authors: Liao Donghua , Wang Peng , Zhao Jingbo , Gregersen Hans
Published: January 2014

Recently we developed analysis for 3D visceral organ deformation by combining the shape context (SC) method with a full-field strain (strain distribution on a whole 3D surface) analysis for calculating distension-induced rat stomach deformation. The surface deformation detected by the SC method needs to be further verified by using a feature tracking measurement. Hence, the aim of this study was to verify the SC method-based calculation by using digital image correlation (DIC) measurement on a rat stomach.
The rat stomach exposed to distension pressures 0.0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 kPa were studied using both 3D DIC system and SC-based image registration calculation. Three different surface sample counts between the reference and the target surfaces were used to gauge the effect of the surface sample counts on the calculation. Each pair of the surface points between the DIC measured target surface and the SC calculated correspondence surface was compared. Compared with DIC measurement, the SC calculated surface had errors from 5% to 23% at pressures from 0.2 to 0.6 kPa with different surface sample counts between the reference surface and the target surface. This indicates good qualitative and quantitative agreement on the surfaces with small dissimilarity and small sample count difference between the reference surface and the target surface. In conclusion, this is the first study to validate the 3D SC-based image registration method by using unique tracking features measurement. The developed method can be used in the future for analysing scientific and clinical data of visceral organ geometry and biomechanical properties in health and disease.
Toward Understanding the Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in the Immune System: Current Progress and Future Trends
Authors: Hanieh Hamza
Published: January 2014

The immune system is regulated by distinct signaling pathways that control the development and function of the immune cells. Accumulating evidence suggest that ligation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (Ahr), an environmentally responsive transcription factor, results in multiple cross talks that are capable of modulating these pathways and their downstream responsive genes. Most of the immune cells respond to such modulation, and many inflammatory response-related genes contain multiple xenobiotic-responsive elements (XREs) boxes upstream. Active research efforts have investigated the physiological role of Ahr in inflammation and autoimmunity using different animal models. Recently formed paradigm has shown that activation of Ahr by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) or 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) prompts the differentiation of CD4+Foxp3+regulatory T cells (Tregs) and inhibits T helper (Th)-17 suggesting that Ahr is an innovative therapeutic strategy for autoimmune inflammation. These promising findings generate a basis for future clinical practices in humans. This review addresses the current knowledge on the role of Ahr in different immune cell compartments, with a particular focus on inflammation and autoimmunity.
The Relationship between Polymorphisms in the Vitamin D Receptor Gene and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Moran Jose M. , Rodriguez-Velasco Francisco J. , Roncero-Martin Raul , Rey-Sanchez Purificación , Martinez Mariana , Pedrera-Zamorano Juan D.
Published: January 2014

The objective of this study was to identify, through a systematic review of the literature, Vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) polymorphisms related to osteoporosis and their effects on bone mineral density (BMD). The articles dated between January 2000 and December 2011 in the Scielo and PubMed databases were reviewed. A total of 23 articles that studied the association between theBsmI,ApaI,FokI, andTaqIpolymorphisms and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women were selected. We found systematic studies/meta-analysis (level E-I) and case-control/cohort (level E-IV) studies. No definite conclusions can be made regarding the association ofBsmI,ApaI,FokI, andTaqIpolymorphisms with BMD among postmenopausal women. Larger and more rigorous analytical studies with consideration of gene-gene/environment interactions are needed to further dissect the mechanisms by whichVDRalleles influence BMD.
Amylenes Do Not Lead to Bacterial Mutagenicity in Contrast to Structurally Related Epoxides
Authors: Westphal Götz A. , Tüshaus Carolin , Monsé Christian , Rosenkranz Nina , Brüning Thomas , Bünger Jürgen
Published: January 2014

Amylenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons (C5H10), such as 1-pentene, 2-pentene, 2-methyl-but-1-en (3-methyl-1-butene), 2-methyl-but-2-en (isopentene), and 3-methyl-but-1-en. We investigated bacterial mutagenicity of 1-pentene, 2-pentene, and 3-methyl-but-1-en in the Ames test. 2-Pentene was investigated as racemate and as pure diastereomers. We included the methyltransferase deficientSalmonellaTyphimurium strain YG7108 and the application of a gas-tight preincubation to reduce the risk of false negative results. 1,2-Epoxypentane which may arise from 1-pentene was used as positive control. None of the investigated amylenes showed mutagenic effects, whereas 1,2-epoxypentane was mutagenic exceeding 100 μg per plate. An exceptional high reverse mutation in the negative control plates in the experiments with 1,2-epoxypentane was obviously caused by evaporation into the incubator which was shown by placing the control plates in a separate apparatus. No differences were seen upon use of YG7108 and its parent strain TA1535. In conclusion, 1,2-epoxypentane is most probably not a substrate of the deleted bacterial methyltransferases. The comparison of the bacterial mutagenicity of the investigated amylenes and 1,2-epoxipentane suggests that epoxidation of amylenes in the S9-mix does not proceed effectively or is counterbalanced by detoxifying reactions. The assessment of mutagenic effects of short chained aliphatic epoxides can be underestimated due to the evaporation of these compounds.
Postoperative Arrhythmias after Cardiac Surgery: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Therapeutic Management
Authors: Peretto Giovanni , Durante Alessandro , Limite Luca Rosario , Cianflone Domenico
Published: January 2014

Arrhythmias are a known complication after cardiac surgery and represent a major cause of morbidity, increased length of hospital stay, and economic costs. However, little is known about incidence, risk factors, and treatment of early postoperative arrhythmias. Both tachyarrhythmias and bradyarrhythmias can present in the postoperative period. In this setting, atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm disorder. Postoperative atrial fibrillation is often self-limiting, but it may require anticoagulation therapy and either a rate or rhythm control strategy. However, ventricular arrhythmias and conduction disturbances can also occur. Sustained ventricular arrhythmias in the recovery period after cardiac surgery may warrant acute treatment and long-term preventive strategy in the absence of reversible causes. Transient bradyarrhythmias may be managed with temporary pacing wires placed at surgery, but significant and persistent atrioventricular block or sinus node dysfunction can occur with the need for permanent pacing. We provide a complete and updated review about mechanisms, risk factors, and treatment strategies for the main postoperative arrhythmias.
Differences in Symptoms among Adults with Canal versus Otolith Vestibular Dysfunction: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Farrell Lisa , Rine Rose Marie
Published: January 2014

Despite the importance of symptomatology in the diagnosis of vestibular dysfunction, the qualitative nature of the symptoms related to semicircular canal (canal) versus otolith dysfunction is not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to compare symptoms, and their severity, in individuals with canal versus otolith peripheral vestibular dysfunction. A subjective tool, the Descriptive Symptom Index (DSI), was developed to enable categorization of symptoms as rotary, linear, imbalance or falls, and nondistinct. Fourteen adults were recruited and grouped based on vestibular function testing: canal only dysfunction, otolith only dysfunction, or canal and otolith dysfunction. Also, the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) was used to grade the severity of perceived limitations due to symptoms. The DSI was reliable and differentiated those with canal (rotary symptoms) versus otolith (linear symptoms) dysfunction. Most individuals with otolith only dysfunction did not report rotary symptoms. DHI scores were significantly higher in those with otolith dysfunction, regardless of canal functional status. All who experienced falls had otolith dysfunction and none had canal only dysfunction. Results support the importance of using linear and rotary descriptors of perceived disorientation as part of diagnosing vestibular dysfunction.
Static Kirchhoff Rods under the Action of External Forces: Integration via Runge-Kutta Method
Authors: Xavier Jr. Ademir L.
Published: January 2014

This paper shows how to apply a simple Runge-Kutta algorithm to get solutions of Kirchhoff equations for static filaments subjected to arbitrary external and static forces. This is done by suitably integrating
at once Kirchhoff and filament reference system equations under appropriate initial boundary conditions. To show the application of the method, we display several numerical solutions for filaments including cases showing the effect of gravity.
A Case of Methanol Poisoning in a Child
Authors: Loza Reyner , Rodriguez Dimas
Published: January 2014

We report the case of a girl admitted to the emergency room with a history of four hours' acute illness, characterized by nausea, vomiting, salivation, headache, blurred vision, and acidotic “Kussmaul” breathing. Arterial blood gases showed severe mixed acidosis, metabolic and respiratory with high anion gap. She had ingested the contents of a scent bottle containing methanol, which she thought was a soft drink bottle. The girl was managed with hemodialysis and strong intravenous hydration. She improved well and made a full recovery.
The Role of Bioactive Lipids in Stem Cell Mobilization and Homing: Novel Therapeutics for Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Klyachkin Yuri M. , Karapetyan Anush V. , Ratajczak Mariusz Z. , Abdel-Latif Ahmed
Published: January 2014

Despite significant advances in medical therapy and interventional strategies, the prognosis of millions of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and ischemic heart disease (IHD) remains poor. Currently, short of heart transplantation with all of its inherit limitations, there are no available treatment strategies that replace the infarcted myocardium. It is now well established that cardiomyocytes undergo continuous renewal, with contribution from bone marrow (BM)-derived stem/progenitor cells (SPCs). This phenomenon is upregulated during AMI by initiating multiple innate reparatory mechanisms through which BMSPCs are mobilized towards the ischemic myocardium and contribute to myocardial regeneration. While a role for the SDF-1/CXCR4 axis in retention of BMSPCs in bone marrow is undisputed, its exclusive role in their mobilization and homing to a highly proteolytic microenvironment, such as the ischemic/infarcted myocardium, is currently being challenged. Recent evidence suggests a pivotal role for bioactive lipids in the mobilization of BMSPCs at the early stages following AMI and their homing towards ischemic myocardium. This review highlights the recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of stem cell mobilization, provides newer evidence implicating bioactive lipids in BMSPC mobilization and differentiation, and discusses their potential as therapeutic agents in the treatment of IHD.
M to T Rearrangement: An Approach to Correct Webbed Neck Deformity
Authors: Murthy Ananth S. , McGraw Margeaux
Published: January 2014

For the Noonan syndrome patient, the most concerning physical defect is often congenital webbing of the neck or pterygium colli. We present a patient with pterygium colli and a low and laterally displaced nuchal hairline. Since its description, various surgical approaches have been implemented to correct the deformity. Previously reported posterior and lateral approaches have notable disadvantages with regard to hairline displacement and recurrence. In order to address these disadvantages, a new surgical technique was used on this patient. We have termed this technique an M to T rearrangement. Using a lateral approach, the M and T incisions are made and the trapezial fascial web is directly visualized and able to be completely excised. This prevents the recurrence seen with the use of posterior techniques. Inferolateral displacement of hair-bearing skin can be removed with resection of the superior intervening triangle and improves the appearance of the low nuchal hairline. The excision of excess skin along with the zig-zag closure also prevents postoperative scar contraction and recurrence. An important effect of this technique is the prevention of anterior displacement of hair bearing skin. M to T rearrangement is an effective technique for the correction of webbed neck deformities seen in Noonan and Turner syndromes.
Polystyrene Microbeads by Dispersion Polymerization: Effect of Solvent on Particle Morphology
Authors: Jinhua Lei , Guangyuan Zhou
Published: January 2014

Polystyrene microspheres (PS) were synthesized by dispersion polymerization in ethanol/2-Methoxyethanol (EtOH/EGME) blend solvent using styrene (St) as monomer, azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator, and PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) K-30 as stabilizer. The typical recipe of dispersion polymerization is as follows: St/Solvent/AIBN/PVP = 10 g/88 g/0.1 g/2 g. The morphology of polystyrene microspheres was characterized by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the molecular weights of PS particles were measured by the Ubbelohde viscometer method. The effect of ethanol content in the blend solvent on the morphology and molecular weight of polystyrene was studied. We found that the size of polystyrene microspheres increased and the molecular weight of polystyrene microspheres decreased with the decreasing of the ethanol content in the blend solvent from 100 wt% to 0 wt%. What is more, the size monodispersity of polystyrene microspheres was quite good when the pure ethanol or pure 2-Methoxyethanol was used; however when the blend ethanol/2-Methoxyethanol solvent was used, the polystyrene microspheres became polydisperse. We further found that the monodispersity of polystyrene microspheres can be significantly improved by adding a small amount of water into the blend solvent; the particles became monodisperse when the content of water in the blend solvent was up to 2 wt%.
Mannose-Binding Lectin Codon 54 Gene Polymorphism and Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nedovic Bojan , Posteraro Brunella , Leoncini Emanuele , Ruggeri Alberto , Amore Rosarita , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Ricciardi Walter , Boccia Stefania
Published: January 2014

Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) plays a key role in the human innate immune response. It has been shown that polymorphisms in theMBL2gene, particularly at codon 54 (variant alleleB; wild-type allele designated asA), impact upon host susceptibility toCandidainfection. This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to assess the association betweenMBL2codon 54 genotype and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) or recurrent VVC (RVVC). Studies were searched in MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and ISI Web of Science until April 2013. Five studies including 704 women (386 cases and 318 controls) were part of the meta-analysis, and pooled ORs were calculated using the random effects model. For subjects with RVVC, ORs ofABversusAAand ofBBversusAAwere 4.84 (95% CI 2.10–11.15;Pfor heterogeneity=0.013;I2=68.6%) and 12.68 (95% CI 3.74–42.92;Pfor heterogeneity=0.932,I2=0.0%), respectively. For subjects with VVC, OR ofABversusAAwas 2.57 (95% CI 1.29–5.12;Pfor heterogeneity=0.897;I2=0.0%). This analysis indicates that heterozygosity for theMBL2alleleBincreases significantly the risk for both diseases, suggesting that MBL may influence the women’s innate immunity in response toCandida.
The Role of MIF in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sánchez-Zamora Yuriko I. , Rodriguez-Sosa Miriam
Published: January 2014

Autoimmunity and chronic low-grade inflammation are hallmarks of diabetes mellitus type one (T1DM) and type two (T2DM), respectively. Both processes are orchestrated by inflammatory cytokines, including the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). To date, MIF has been implicated in both types of diabetes; therefore, understanding the role of MIF could affect our understanding of the autoimmune or inflammatory responses that influence diabetic pathology. This review highlights our current knowledge about the involvement of MIF in both types of diabetes in the clinical environment and in experimental disease models.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties ofGymnema sylvestre: An Important Medicinal Plant
Authors: Tiwari Pragya , Mishra B. N. , Sangwan Neelam S.
Published: January 2014

Gymnema sylvestre(Asclepiadaceae), popularly known as “gurmar” for its distinct property as sugar destroyer, is a reputed herb in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. The phytoconstituents responsible for sweet suppression activity includes triterpene saponins known as gymnemic acids, gymnemasaponins, and a polypeptide, gurmarin. The herb exhibits a broad range of therapeutic effects as an effective natural remedy for diabetes, besides being used for arthritis, diuretic, anemia, osteoporosis, hypercholesterolemia, cardiopathy, asthma, constipation, microbial infections, indigestion, and anti-inflammatory.G. sylvestrehas good prospects in the treatment of diabetes as it shows positive effects on blood sugar homeostasis, controls sugar cravings, and promotes regeneration of pancreas. The herbal extract is used in dietary supplements since it reduces body weight, blood cholesterol, and triglyceride levels and holds great prospects in dietary as well as pharmacological applications. This review explores the transition of a traditional therapeutic to a modern contemporary medication with an overview of phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of the herb and its phytoconstituents.
Preparation of Mesoporous SiO2-Pillared Lamellar Titanoniobate Catalysts for Bioethanol Dehydration
Authors: Pergentino Olivalter , de Brito Marina M. , Andrade Heloysa M. C. , Mascarenhas Artur J. S.
Published: January 2014

The lamellar perovskite K0,8Ti0,8Nb1,2O5 was prepared by solid state reaction, and its protonic form was used in a sequence of intercalation steps with n-butylamine, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTABr), and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). After calcination, a high surface area, mesoporous SiO2-pillared titanoniobate, was obtained. The samples were characterized by XRD, EDX, TG-DTG, N2 adsorption isotherms, and NH3-TPD. The pillarization procedure affected the textural properties, the amount, and strength distribution of acid sites. The influence of the pillarization procedure on the catalytic properties of the lamellar titanoniobates was investigated on ethanol dehydration. High ethanol conversions and ethylene yields (>90%) were obtained in the presence of the SiO2-pillared titanoniobate catalyst, at 350–450°C.
Molecular and Technological Characterization ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeStrains Isolated from Natural Fermentation of Susumaniello Grape Must in Apulia, Southern Italy
Authors: Tristezza Mariana , Fantastico Lorenagostina , Vetrano Cosimo , Bleve Gianluca , Corallo Daniela , Grieco Francesco , Mita Giovanni , Grieco Francesco
Published: January 2014

The characterization of autochthonousSaccharomyces cerevisiaestrains is an important step towards the conservation and employment of microbial biodiversity. The utilization of selected autochthonous yeast strains would be a powerful tool to enhance the organoleptic and sensory properties of typical regional wines. In fact, indigenous yeasts are better tailored to a particular must and because of this they are able to praise the peculiarities of the derived wine. The present study described the biodiversity of indigenousS. cerevisiaestrains isolated from natural must fermentations of an ancient and recently rediscovered Apulian grape cultivar, denoted as “Susumaniello.” The yeast strains denoted by the best oenological and technological features were identified and their fermentative performances were tested by either laboratory assay. Five yeast strains showed that they could be excellent candidates for the production of industrial starter cultures, since they dominated the fermentation process and produced wines characterized by peculiar oenological and organoleptic features.
Multidisciplinary Treatment Approach in a Patient with History of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yavuz Atacan , Ağralı Ömer Birkan , Çalışkan Zeynep Lale , Türkaydın Dilek , Sertgöz Atilla , Kuru Bahar , Doğan Başak
Published: January 2014

Radiotherapy in NPC patients has side effects on the dentition, which affects quality of life dramatically. This case report presents multidisciplinary dental treatment approach in a 17-year-old male patient with a history of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), which was treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The adolescent patient applied to dental hospital 4 years after the radiotherapy with aesthetic and functional problems on dentition affecting psychological, social, and physical aspects of his life. The dentition of the patient demonstrated the severe destruction as a devastating side effect of radiotherapy. With a successful multidisciplinary approach, our patient’s aesthetics, function, and self-confidence were obtained. Well-established procedures, which include preventative care and maintenance, can reduce the duration and expenses of the treatment and help in challenging the life-long complications of radiotherapy.
Pharmacokinetics of PEGylated Recombinant Human Erythropoietin in Rats
Authors: Cao Xiaohan , Chen Zhiyong , Yu Zhuoran , Ge Yonghong , Zeng Xianyin
Published: January 2014

rHuEPO plays a central role as chemicals for the treatment of many diseases. Due to its short half-life, the main aim for this pharmacokinetic study is to investigate a newly developed PEG-rHuEPO with large molecular weight in SD rats. After a single intramuscular administration of different doses of 125I-PEG-rHuEPO, pharmacokinetic parameters, tissue distribution, and excretion were analyzed. Inin vivohalf-life time measured after 125I-PEG-rHuEPO administration at the doses of 1, 2, and 3 μg/kg,t1/2αwas 1.90, 1.19, and 2.50 hours, respectively, whereast1/2βwas 22.37, 26.21, and 20.92 hours, respectively; at 8, 24, and 48 hours after intramuscular administration, PEG-rHuEPO was distributed to all of the examined tissues, however, with high concentrations of radioactivity, only in plasma, blood, muscle at the administration site, and bone marrow. Following a 2 μg/kg single intramuscular administration, approximately 21% of the radiolabeled dose was recovered after almost seven days of study. Urine was the major route of excretion; 20% of the administered dose was recovered in the urine, while excretion in the feces was less than 1.4%. Therefore, this PEG-rHuEPO has potential to be clinically used and could reduce frequency of injection.
Metabolism of Chicken Feathers and Concomitant Electricity Generation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Employing Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC)
Authors: Chaturvedi Venkatesh , Verma Pradeep
Published: January 2014

Keratinolytic potential of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain SDS3 has been evaluated for the metabolism of chicken feathers. Results indicated that strain SDS3 showed complete metabolism of 0.1 and 0.5% (w/v) chicken feathers in minimal medium. Feathers were metabolized up to 80% at 1% (w/v) concentration. Maximum soluble protein (480.8±17.1 μg/mL) and keratinase (15.4±0.25 U/mL) were observed in the presence of 1% chicken feathers after five days of incubation. The effect of carbon and nitrogen sources showed that feather degradation was stimulated by complex carbon/nitrogen sources such as starch, malt extract, tryptone, and beef extract and was inhibited by simple carbon and nitrogen sources. Electricity production by employing chicken feathers as a substrate in microbial fuel cell (MFC) was evaluated. It was observed that maximum voltage corresponding to 141 mV was observed after 14 days of incubation. Maximum power density of 1206.78 mW/m2 and maximum current density of 8.6 mA/m2 were observed. The results clearly indicate that chicken feathers can be successfully employed as a cheap substrate for electricity production in MFC. This is the first report showing employment of chicken feathers as substrate in MFC.
Specific Intracellular Uptake of Herceptin-Conjugated CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dots into Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Han Seung-Jin , Rathinaraj Pierson , Park Soo-Young , Kim Young Kyoo , Lee Joon Hyung , Kang Inn-Kyu , Moon Jong-Sik , Winiarz Jeffrey G.
Published: January 2014

Herceptin, a typical monoclonal antibody, was immobilized on the surface of CdSe/ZnS core-shell quantum dots (QDs) to enhance their specific interactions with breast cancer cells (SK-BR3). The mean size of the core-shell quantum dots (28 nm), as determined by dynamic light scattering, increased to 86 nm after herceptin immobilization. Thein vitrocell culture experiment showed that the keratin forming cancer cells (KB) proliferated well in the presence of herceptin-conjugated QDs (QD-Her, 5 nmol/mL), whereas most of the breast cancer cells (SK-BR3) had died. To clarify the mechanism of cell death, the interaction of SK-BR3 cells with QD-Her was examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. As a result, the QD-Her bound specifically to the membrane of SK-BR3, which became almost saturated after 6 hours incubation. This suggests that the growth signal of breast cancer cells is inhibited completely by the specific binding of herceptin to the Her-2 receptor of SK-BR3 membrane, resulting in cell death.
Lifestyle Factors and the Risk of a Second Breast Cancer after Ductal Carcinoma In Situ
Authors: McLaughlin Vicki Hart , Trentham-Dietz Amy , Hampton John M. , Newcomb Polly A. , Sprague Brian L.
Published: January 2014

Background: Little information exists on lifestyle factors that affect prognosis after treatment for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) breast cancer. Improved understanding of the role of lifestyle factors is important to survivors wishing to reduce their risk of a second breast cancer diagnosis.

Methods: We examined the association between body mass index (BMI), physical activity, and alcohol intake, and risk of a second breast cancer diagnosis among 1,925 DCIS survivors in the Wisconsin In Situ Cohort. Exposures were self-reported during biennial patient interviews. Second breast cancer diagnoses were validated via pathology report. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the association between prediagnosis, postdiagnosis, and change in exposure levels and the risk of a second diagnosis, with adjustment for patient, tumor, and treatment factors.

Results: Over a mean of 6.7 years of follow-up, 162 second breast cancer diagnoses were reported, including 57 invasive events, 60 in situ events, and 45 diagnoses of unknown stage. A significant trend of increasing risk of a second diagnosis was found over increasing categories of postdiagnosis alcohol intake (Ptrend = 0.02). Among premenopausal women, increased prediagnosis BMI was associated with a reduced risk of a second diagnosis (HR = 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.88–0.99).

Conclusion: DCIS survivors may reduce their risk of a second diagnosis by reducing postdiagnosis alcohol consumption.

Impact: The population of DCIS survivors is projected to surpass one million by the year 2016. Our results suggest that these women may be able to reduce their risk of a second diagnosis through moderation of alcohol consumption. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(3); 450–60. ©2014 AACR.
Solitary Idiopathic Choroiditis
Authors: Monteiro Sérgio , Andrews Richard , Sagoo Mandeep
Published: January 2014

Background: There are multiple conditions associated with the formation of a solitary choroidal granuloma. However, in many cases, solitary choroiditis remains idiopathic in spite of an extensive systemic evaluation. Methods: A 26-year-old man presented with an asymptomatic pale choroidal lesion that had the features of solitary idiopathic choroiditis. Results: Optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence were performed and showed lesion features. Conclusions: Solitary idiopathic choroiditis is a rare condition of unknown aetiology that sometimes can be mistaken as an intraocular tumour. The use of emerging multimodal imaging is of great importance in the diagnosis of this condition.
Humble Chief Executive Officers’ Connections to Top Management Team Integration and Middle Managers’ Responses
Authors: Ou Amy Y. , Tsui Anne S. , Kinicki Angelo J. , Waldman David A. , Xiao Zhixing , Song Lynda Jiwen
Published: January 2014

In this article, we examine the concept of humility among chief executive officers (CEOs) and the process through which it is connected to integration in the top management team (TMT) and middle managers’ responses. We develop and validate a comprehensive measure of humility using multiple samples and then test a multilevel model of how CEOs’ humility links to the processes of top and middle managers. Our methodology involves survey data gathered twice from 328 TMT members and 645 middle managers in 63 private companies in China. We find CEO humility to be positively associated with empowering leadership behaviors, which in turn correlates with TMT integration. TMT integration then positively relates to middle managers’ perception of having an empowering organizational climate, which is then associated with their work engagement, affective commitment, and job performance. Findings confirm our hypotheses based on social information processing theory: humble CEOs connect to top and middle managers through collective perceptions of empowerment at both levels. Qualitative data from interviews with 51 CEOs provide additional insight into the meaning of humility among CEOs and differences between those with high and low humility.
Renal Denervation
Authors: Gossios Thomas D. , Ziakas Antonios , Doumas Michalis , Katsiki Niki , Petroglou Dimitrios , Kouparanis Antonios , Lillis Leonidas , Karvounis Haralambos
Published: January 2014

Resistant hypertension, defined as failure to reach blood pressure (BP) goals despite treatment with ≥3 antihypertensive agents, one of which is a diuretic, bears a significant risk of cardiovascular complications. Strong evidence exists, implicating the overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) in the pathogenesis of resistant hypertension through complex neurohormonal interactions. Renal denervation is a novel attractive option to achieve adequate blockade of the sympathetic system, with subsequent BP reductions in patients with resistant hypertension. Data have shown promising results regarding the efficacy of the procedure, maintaining a favorable safety profile. As such, the paradigm of resistant hypertension has expanded in other conditions involving a hyperadrenergic state such as the metabolic syndrome, heart failure, arrhythmias, sleep apnea, and renal failure. This review focuses on the pathophysiological rationale of modifying SNS tone and the evidence of the benefits of such intervention beyond BP control.
College students’ perceptions of the importance of sexual assault prevention education: Suggestions for targeting recruitment for peer-based education
Authors: Jozkowski Kristen N , Henry Dayna S , Sturm Ashley A
Published: January 2014

Introduction:

Sexual assault continues to be a pervasive health issue among college students in the USA. Prevention education initiatives have been implemented to address this concern. However, little is known about college students’ perceptions of such programming. The purpose of this study was to assess predictors of college students’ perceptions of the importance of sexual assault prevention education for themselves and for college students in general.

Methods:

We recruited college students ( n = 252) from undergraduate classes at a medium-sized, mid-western university to participate in a closed-ended, paper-and-pencil survey.

Results:

The majority of participants perceived sexual assault prevention education as important for themselves (88.7%) and for college students in general (97.1%). Several characteristics emerged as predictors of students’ perceptions of the importance of sexual assault prevention education programmes.

Discussion:

Gender and age were significant predictors of students’ perceptions of the personal importance in experiencing sexual assault prevention education. Gender, age, participation in a student organisation and previous experience of sexual assault emerged as significant predictors of students’ perception of the general importance of sexual assault prevention education.

Conclusion:

Sexual assault prevention educators could seek out specific individuals whom think prevention education is important, in order to involve them in prevention efforts as peer-educators.
To be motivated or only comply – patients’ views of hypertension care after consultation training for nurses
Authors: Drevenhorn Eva , Bengtson Ann , Kjellgren Karin I
Published: January 2014

Objective:

This paper reports on patients’ perspectives on the nurse management of hypertension following consultation training, elicited as part of a randomised controlled study.

Method:

Telephone interviews were conducted with 16 patients in an intervention group (IG) and eight patients in a control group (CG), 3 years after nurses’ consultation training in primary health care. By means of a 3-day course, nurses were educated in patient centredness, Motivational Interviewing, the Stages of Change model, guidelines for cardiovascular prevention, lifestyle changes and pharmacological treatment. In addition, they took part in video-recorded consultation training with simulated patients. A specially designed educational booklet was developed for patients in the IG.

Results:

Of the 16 patients in the IG, 13 reported that their views and former experiences were taken into account and all eight patients in the CG reported the same. Patients in the IG reported that the nurse listened and they had been guided and motivated to perform lifestyle changes. The booklet in the IG was reported to have been read several times, but a few patients did not remember receiving it. There were more informed thoughts about how to manage lifestyle in the IG. Patients in the CG were less detailed in their descriptions.

Conclusion:

Patients in both IG and CG reported to have made efforts to change lifestyle, and patients in the IG reported that they had been coached and motivated by their nurses to do so.
Airports and territorial restructuring: The case of Hong Kong
Authors: McNeill Donald
Published: January 2014

This paper provides a detailed examination of the construction of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). The paper begins by reviewing recent work which has reconceptualised how airports are understood in spatial terms. It then describes the development of Hong Kong’s new airport, discussing the spatial format of the new airport design at HKIA, and the relationship between aviation and non-aviation uses. Next, it examines the impact of the airport on the rapidly shifting territorial politics of Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta within the wider Chinese state. The paper argues that this case study must be assessed as part of a wider project of state territorial restructuring.
The Future of Nature-Based Tourism in the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Frost Warwick , Laing Jennifer , Beeton Sue
Published: January 2014

There appears to be widespread respect for and interest in nature among Asia-Pacific societies, which has strong cultural and religious roots, contrary to the popular view that this is mainly a Western concern. This article projects the growing demand for nature-based tourism in the Asia-Pacific region into the future, using examples of protected areas, zoos, and nature-based spas. The current status of nature-based tourism in the region is discussed, before exploring future scenarios. Findings suggest that this strong attachment to nature may manifest itself in overdevelopment and overuse of natural attractions by 2050, based on seven key drivers identified in this study, including the rise of an affluent and educated middle class, increased urbanization, and a “development at all costs” mentality.
A Qualitative Comparison of Battered Women’s Perceptions of Service Needs and Barriers Across Correctional and Shelter Contexts
Authors: Pritchard Adam J. , Jordan Carol E. , Jones Letonia
Published: January 2014

This study explores the confluence of victimization and incarceration to contribute to the understanding of battered women’s experience of the criminal justice system. Building on previous qualitative research investigating pathways to incarceration for battered women, this study utilizes qualitative data from 10 focus-group interviews to investigate and compare battered women’s experiences with victimization, help-seeking, and perceptions of incarceration across four different site types: jails, prisons, shelters, and post-release support groups. The study makes comparisons across these sites and identifies site-specific service needs and perceived barriers to meeting these needs. These data also reveal three ways battered women perceive incarceration to operate with respect to their service needs: as a symbolic barrier, as a potential opportunity, and as a structural barrier. The association of these divergent perspectives on incarceration with specific locations in the criminal justice system and the implications for targeted interventions based on these findings are discussed.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mobile Intervention to Improve Treatment Adherence in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Wenze Susan J. , Armey Michael F. , Miller Ivan W.
Published: January 2014

We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a 2-week-long ecological momentary intervention (EMI), delivered via personal digital assistants (PDAs), to improve treatment adherence in bipolar disorder. EMIs use mobile technology to deliver treatment as clients engage in their typical daily routines, in their usual settings. Overall, participants ( N = 14) stated that EMI sessions were helpful, user-friendly, and engaging, and reported satisfaction with the timing and burden of sessions, as well as the method of delivery. All participants completed the study, and all PDAs were returned undamaged. On average, participants completed 92% of EMI sessions. Although this study was not designed to assess efficacy, depression scores decreased significantly over the study period and data suggest relatively high rates of treatment adherence; missed medication was reported 3% of the time and three participants reported missing a total of six mental health appointments. Negative feedback largely involved technical and logistical issues, many of which are easily addressable. These preliminary findings add to the growing body of literature indicating that mobile-technology-assisted interventions are feasible to implement and acceptable to patients with serious mental illnesses.