bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endostatin‐ and interleukin‐2‐expressing retroviral bicistronic vector for gene therapy of metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Rocha Flávia Gomes de Góes , Calvo Fernanda B. , Chaves Karen C. , Peron Jean P. S. , Marques Rodolfo F. , de Borba Tânia R. , Braga Marina S. , Pereira Cleide B. , Vicente Elisabete J. , Chammas Roger , Schor Nestor , Bellini Maria H.
Published: February 2011

Background

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) is one of the most treatment‐resistant malignancies. Despite all new therapeutic advances, almost all patients develop resistance to treatment and cure is rarely seen. In the present study, we evaluated the antitumor effect of a bicistronic retrovirus vector encoding both endostatin (ES) and interleukin (IL)‐2 using an orthotopic metastatic RCC mouse model.

Methods

Balb/C‐bearing Renca cells were treated with NIH/3T3‐LendIRES‐IL‐2‐SN cells. In the survival studies, mice were monitored daily until they died. At the end of the in vivo experiment, serum levels of IL‐2 and ES were measured, the lung was weighed, and the number of metastatic nodules, nodule area, tumor vessels and proliferation of tumor‐infiltrating Renca cells were determined.

Results

Inoculation of NIH/3T3‐LendIRES‐IL‐2‐SN cells resulted in an increase in ES and IL‐2 levels in the treated group (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in lung wet weight, lung nodule area and tumor vessels in the treated group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The proliferation of Renca cells in the bicistronic‐treated group was significantly reduced compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed that the probability of survival was significantly higher for mice submitted to bicistronic therapy (log‐rank test, p = 0.0016). Bicistronic therapy caused an increase in the infiltration of CD4, CD4 interferon (IFN)γ‐producing, CD8, CD8 IFNγ‐producing and natural killer (CD49b) cells.

Conclusions

Retroviral bicistronic gene transfer led to the secretion of functional ES and IL‐2 that was sufficiently active to: (i) inhibit tumor angiogenesis and tumor cell proliferation and (ii) increase the infiltration of immune cells. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of new vinylpyridinium salts
Authors: Posada Paloma , Braña Miguel F. , Villarino Antonio L. , Domínguez Vicente , Ortuño Ismael , Martínez Carmen
Published: February 2011

This article reports the reactions of salts of 4‐ureylmethylpyridinium and 4‐ethoxycarbonylaminomethylpyridinium with carbonylic compounds, performed with the aim of obtaining new vinylpyridinium salts. These reactions can lead to the formation of both condensation and dimerization products. The type of products formed is conditioned by the nature of the salts and carbonyl groups involved. The interest generated by the condensation products formed lies in their potential cholinergic activity. J. Heterocyclic Chem., 2011.
In vitro cytotoxic evaluation of some new heterocyclic sulfonamide derivatives
Authors: Ghorab Mostafa M. , Al‐Said Mansour S. , El‐Hossary Ebaa M.
Published: February 2011

Sulfonamide‐bearing compounds posses many types of biological activities and have been recently reported to show substantial antitumor activity in vitro and/or in vivo. There are a variety of mechanisms for the anticancer activity, and the most prominent mechanism is the inhibition of carbonic anhydrase isozymes. This work reports the synthesis of some new quinoline, pyrimido[4,5‐b]quinoline and 3,1‐oxazinoquinoline derivatives bearing a sulfonamide moiety. All the newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells. Compounds 10, 13, and 26 were the most active compounds with IC50 values of 6.1 μM, 6.8 μM, and 6.4 μM, respectively, and exhibited better activities than the reference drug doxorubicin (IC50 = 68.1 μM). J. Heterocyclic Chem., 2011.
Poly(N‐bromobenzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide) and N,N,N′,N′‐tetrabromobenzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide as a mild and efficient catalyst for chemoselective thioacetalization of carbonyl functions and transthioacetalization reactions
Authors: Veisi Hojat , Ghorbani‐Vaghei Ramin , Dadamahaleh Somayeh Akbari
Published: February 2011

Poly(N‐bromobenzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide) and N,N,N′,N′‐tetrabromobenzene‐1,3‐disulfonamide are effective catalysts for chemoselective dithioacetalization of aldehydes in the presence of ketones under neutral conditions. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
The silent organizational pathology of insidious intimidation
Authors: Zimmerman Theresa , Amori Geri
Published: February 2011

While organizations are valiantly striving to address acts of disruption among physicians and nurses, a silent and yet equally disruptive pathology is spreading through the veins of the organization. This behavior is found among all ranks and responsibilities, from the C‐suite to the housekeeping staff. It occurs daily and is rarely reported. It continues because its nature is such that it is difficult to measure, the victims often feel helpless, and the perpetrators are often those in positions that are not normally perceived to be as essential to the flow of patient care. Nonetheless, this insidious intimidation chills communication, reduces morale, and ultimately harms patients. Organizations that desire a culture of safety and comfort must address this behavior through individual coaching, education of all staff, a willingness to tackle system frustrations that amplify and perpetuate the behavior, and establish processes for dealing fairly and firmly with the behavior.
Applying the Neuman Stressor Model for workplace safety
Authors: Greenawalt Julia , Wachter Jan K.
Published: February 2011

This article applies the Betty Neuman Stressor Model, typically used in nursing education to explain illness causation of the patient, to educating healthcare workers on workplace stressors (i.e., hazards). Prevention strategies for dealing with workplace hazards are discussed in terms of bolstering flexible lines of defense or lines of resistance as described by this stressor model. Key hazards to include in a healthcare safety curriculum or in workplace safety training are provided.
No more paper tiger: Promise and peril as HIPAA goes HITECH
Authors: Vinson Devin D.
Published: February 2011

The HITECH Act, passed in 2009 by the federal government, deepens the concerns for patient privacy faced by healthcare organizations subject to HIPAA. This article examines the law and demonstrates that healthcare entities are facing greater duties to safeguard patients' protected health information, as well as severe civil and criminal penalties should they fail to do so. In recognition of this heightened liability, healthcare entities must reassess their methods for handling patient data and take action in key areas to ensure that risk is contained.
Phase‐Sensitive Constant Temperature Anemometry
Authors: van den Berg Thomas H. , Wormgoor Willem D. , Luther Stefan , Lohse Detlef
Published: February 2011

Hot‐film measurements in bubbly flows provide time series that contain information about the liquid and the gas phase. Signal classification is required to disentangle the corresponding segments. The classification algorithms are prone to detection bias, which makes hot‐film measurements in two‐phase flows very difficult. We present a new phase‐sensitive hot‐film probe that provides velocity data and optical phase classification in a single device. We report a proof of concept of this method and demonstrate its accuracy and robustness. Furthermore, we discuss its application to turbulent bubbly flows.

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Obtaining of pure nanostructured titanium for medicine by severe deformation at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Kutniy K.V. , Volchok O.I. , Kislyak I.F. , Tikhonovsky M.A. , Storozhilov G.E.
Published: February 2011

The purpose of this study was to obtain pure nanostructured titanium by drawing at cryogenic temperatures and to investigate its structural and mechanical properties. Titanium rods were obtained by severe plastic deformation under the scheme of upsetting‐extrusion‐drawing. Upsetting and extrusion were performed at 800 K, obtained rod was initially drawn at 300 K to diameter of 3.7 mm (degree of true strain ε = 3.2). Further deformation of the finish drawing was performed at 77 K (liquid nitrogen) and at 300 K.
Biocompatible and biodegradable MOPEO‐b‐PCL diblock copolymer micelles as nanocontainers for drugs
Authors: Partsevskaya S.V. , Zheltonozhskaya T.B. , Permyakova N.M. , Kolendo A.Y.
Published: February 2011

Amphiphilic MOPEO‐b‐PCL diblock copolymers with biocompatible and biodegradable blocks of methoxypoly(ethylene oxide) (Mv = 2·103) and poly(ε‐caprolactone) of a variable chain length were synthesized.Their structure, the micellization in dioxane/aqueous solutions and also the interaction of micelles with the model drug prednisolon (PS) were studied by 1H NMR, DSC, UV/visible spectroscopy, static light scattering and FTIR. A binding of PS by micellar nanocontainers by means of hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions, that enhances essentially the stability of micellar structures in a solution, was established.
Highly anisotropic magnetic properties of ultrathin (La,Na) MnO3 films on LaAlO3 (001) substrates
Authors: Tovstolytkin A. I. , Matviyenko A. I. , Tsmots V. M. , Pankiv L. I. , Pankiv I. S.
Published: February 2011

Magnetic measurements and resonance measurements have been carried out on ultrathin (20 nm) films of sodium‐doped lanthanum manganite fabricated by magnetron sputtering on single crystalline LaAlO3 (001) substrates. Complex behavior of magnetization and magnetic anisotropy has been revealed. It is shown that an out‐of‐plane alignment of the film magnetization is characteristic of the films at low temperatures. As temperature increases, a spin‐reorientation transition occurs at about 160 K and in‐plane alignment of magnetization becomes more preferable. Further increase in temperature results in an isotropic behavior of magnetization as temperature approaches and crosses the Curie point (≈270 K). It is concluded that anisotropy energy, originated from a substrate‐induced compressive strain, is responsible for the unusual behavior of the ultrathin films of sodium‐doped manganites.
Nanocrystalline calcium‐deficient hydroxyapatite prepared by a microwave‐assisted solvent‐free reaction
Authors: Zyman Z. , Goncharenko A. , Rokhmistrov D. , Epple M.
Published: February 2011

A microwave‐assisted solvent‐free synthesis of hydroxyapatite from calcium nitrate and sodium phosphate is reported. The product was characterized with respect to the presence of foreign ions and its thermal behavior. An apatite phase was formed in the mixture after irradiation with 2.45 GHz microwaves for 4 min at 350 or 700 W. Structurally, the product was a nanocrystalline calcium‐deficient hydroxyapatite (CDHA) with a Ca/P ratio around 1.5, containing some H2O, HPO42– and CO32–. After heating to 900°C for 1 h, β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) was formed, demonstrating that this microwave‐assisted solvent‐free synthesis is well suited to prepare a precursor to bioceramics.
‘Modified Hermitian and skew‐Hermitian splitting methods for non‐Hermitian positive‐definite linear systems’ [Numer. Linear Algebra Appl. 14 (2007) 217–235]
Authors: Salkuyeh Davod Khojasteh , Behnejad Shiva
Published: February 2011

In this note, some errors in the article (Numer. Linear Algebra Appl. 2007; 14:217–235) are pointed out and some correct results are presented. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A robust approach to model densification and crack formation in powder compaction processes
Authors: Hernández J. A. , Oliver J. , Cante J. C. , Weyler R.
Published: February 2011

This paper deals with the question of how to efficiently integrate a constitutive model that describes the densification of powders and the potential formation of cracks in Powder Metallurgy (P/M) cold compaction processes. The analyzed model is a large strain, elastoplastic model of the Drucker–Prager/Cap type, refined to cover also the prediction of crack formation, and featuring non‐conventional elements such as a density‐dependent Von Mises yield surface; a parabolic plastic potential function for the Drucker–Prager envelope; and a softening law whose softening modulus is dependent on the level of densification. The employed integration procedure is a non‐conventional hybrid or IMPLicit–EXplicit (IMPL‐EX) scheme, whose essence is to solve explicitly for some variables and implicitly for others, with the peculiarity of the ‘explicit’ variables being but extrapolated values of the same quantities computed, at previous time steps, by means of a fully implicit scheme. The return‐mapping equations stemming from this implicit scheme are solved using an unconditionally convergent, fractional step method‐based iterative procedure. The performance of the IMPL‐EX integration algorithm is critically assessed in two different situations: the densification of a cylindrical specimen, and the fracture process in a diametral compression test. Results obtained show conclusively that the proposed hybrid integration strategy offers an efficient solution to the trade‐off between robustness and computational time requirements. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Was ist genau?
Authors: Gerhard Christoph , Wienecke Stephanie , Lotz Sandra
Published: February 2011

Die Abbildungsqualität optischer Systeme hängt in hohem Maße von der Form‐ und Lagegenauigkeit der verwendeten optischen Komponenten ab. Bei der Konzeption, Fertigung und Montage solcher Abbildungssysteme stellen die Definition und Einhaltung geeigneter Toleranzen daher ausschlaggebende Faktoren dar. Dabei sind neben den Toleranzen zum Grundwerkstoff Glas besonders fertigungs‐ und montagetechnologische Toleranzen zu berücksichtigen.
Fasersensoren in der klassischen Messtechnik
Authors: Landmann Christoph , Jamal Rahman
Published: February 2011

Elektrische Sensoren erfassen physikalische oder chemische Effekte und wandeln diese in eine weiterverarbeitbare Größe um. Trotz ihres hohen Verbreitungsgrades sind diesen Sensoren, insbesondere aufgrund des verwendeten Übertragungsmediums, Grenzen gesetzt, die sich z. B. in Form von Übertragungsverlusten oder der Anfälligkeit gegenüber elektromagnetischen Störungen bemerkbar machen. Dadurch wird ihre Verwendung für viele Anwendungen in der Messtechnik stark eingeschränkt. Der Einsatz von optischen Sensoren auf Basis von Glasfasern stellt eine gute Alternative dar, da sie Licht anstelle von Strom und industrielle Glasfasern anstelle von herkömmlichen Kupferdrähten als Übertragungsmedium einsetzen. Dank der daraus resultierenden Vorteile haben sich Glasfasersensoren und zugehörige Messgeräte so weit entwickelt, dass sie in vielen Bereichen Anwendung finden.
Coating of structured catalytic reactors by plasma assisted polymerization of tetramethyldisiloxane
Authors: Essakhi Adil , Mutel Brigitte , Supiot Philippe , Löfberg Axel , Paul Sébastien , Courtois Véronique Le , Meille Valérie , Pitault Isabelle , Bordes‐Richard Elisabeth
Published: February 2011

An original process based on cold plasma assisted polymerization of tetramethyldisiloxane (TMDSO) in the presence of O2 was developed to cover substrates showing various shapes (plate and foam). In the frame of catalytic application, this coating has to act as a bonding layer for the deposition of active phase such as VOx/TiO2 well‐known for its properties in NOx and volatile organic compounds abatement and in the production of chemical intermediates. Good results were obtained by the deposition of a 5‐μm thick polysiloxane film followed by a thermal treatment under air at 650°C and by a remote nitrogen plasma post treatment. This procedure led to a silica‐like layer allowing its coating in an aqueous suspension of TiO2. Such a multilayered material can be obtained homogeneously on the whole surface of a sample showing a 3D open geometry like metallic foam. Characterizations of the different steps of the elaborated multilayer material were performed by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectrometry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electron probe micro‐analyzer. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of carbon nanofibers on the fracture, mechanical, and thermal properties of PP/SEBS‐g‐MA blends
Authors: Liao Cheng Zhu , Tjong Sie Chin
Published: February 2011

Polypropylene/maleated (styrene‐ethylene‐butadiene‐styrene) (PP/SEBS‐g‐MA) blends reinforced with 0.2–2.5 wt% carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were prepared by injection molding. The structure, thermal, mechanical, and fracture behaviors of PP/SEBS‐g‐MA blends and their nanocomposites were studied. Wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) results showed that the SEBS‐g‐MA and/or CNF additions do not induce a structural change of PP. Tensile measurements showed that the Young's modulus and tensile yield strength increase with the increasing filler content. Izod impact and essential work of fracture test results demonstrated that CNFs are beneficial to improve the impact strength and specific essential work of fracture of PP/SEBS‐g‐MA blends. Therefore, tough PP‐nanocomposites can be achieved by melt‐blending low fractions of CNFs and appropriate elastomer contents. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ultrasonic and impulse welding of polylactic acid films
Authors: Vogel Julius , Grewell David , Kessler Michael R. , Drummer Dietmar , Menacher Markus
Published: February 2011

The weldability of polylactic acid (PLA) is examined in this article. Biaxially oriented PLA films of various thicknesses were joined with impulse and ultrasonic welding techniques. Relatively high weld strengths were achieved with impulse welding over a wide range of welding parameters. Ultrasonic welding produced high weld strengths with relatively short cycle times. In detail, ultrasonic welded samples had a weld factor (weld strength/base material strength) of 1 at cycle times of 0.25 sec. The weld factor was significantly lower at shorter weld times and weld times above 0.35 sec. In contrast, 100‐μm thick samples joined by impulse welding for 2–3 sec had a weld factor of 1 and a standard deviation of only ±5%. The peak temperature during the impulse welding was measured to determine the fusion temperatures of the films. Mechanical, thermal, and optical analysis was used to examine the properties of the PLA at various welding and annealing conditions. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Spatially separated atomic layer deposition of Al2O3, a new option for high‐throughput Si solar cell passivation
Authors: Vermang B. , Rothschild A. , Racz A. , John J. , Poortmans J. , Mertens R. , Poodt P. , Tiba V. , Roozeboom F.
Published: February 2011

A next generation material for surface passivation of crystalline Si is Al2O3. It has been shown that both thermal and plasma‐assisted (PA) atomic layer deposition (ALD) Al2O3 provide an adequate level of surface passivation for both p‐ and n‐type Si substrates. However, conventional time‐resolved ALD is limited by its low deposition rate. Therefore, an experimental high‐deposition‐rate prototype ALD reactor based on the spatially separated ALD principle has been developed and Al2O3 deposition rates up to 1.2 nm/s have been demonstrated. In this work, the passivation quality and uniformity of the experimental spatially separated ALD Al2O3 films are evaluated and compared to conventional temporal ALD Al2O3, by use of quasi‐steady‐state photo‐conductance (QSSPC) and carrier density imaging (CDI). It is shown that spatially separated Al2O3 films of increasing thickness provide an increasing surface passivation level. Moreover, on p‐type CZ Si, 10 and 30 nm spatial ALD Al2O3 layers can achieve the same level of surface passivation as equivalent temporal ALD Al2O3 layers. In contrast, on n‐type FZ Si, spatially separated ALD Al2O3 samples generally do not reach the same optimal passivation quality as equivalent conventional temporal ALD Al2O3 samples. Nevertheless, after “firing”, 30 nm of spatially separated ALD Al2O3 on 250 µm thick n‐type (2.4 Ω cm) FZ Si wafers can lead to effective surface recombination velocities as low as 2.9 cm/s, compared to 1.9 cm/s in the case of 30 nm of temporal ALD Al2O3. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reactivity of phenyl N‐phenylcarbamates in the alkaline hydrolysis reaction
Authors: Nalbantova Didi , Cheshmedzhieva Diana , Hadjieva Boriana , Ilieva Sonia , Galabov Boris
Published: February 2011

In the present study, we explore the application of several theoretically estimated indices that characterize the reactivity of a series of phenyl N‐phenylcarbamates in the alkaline hydrolysis reaction. The rate constants (at 25 °C) for the hydrolysis of several derivatives were spectrophotometrically determined. The obtained kinetic data in this study, combined with literature data for other derivatives, were then correlated with theoretically estimated reactivity indices: Hirshfeld and NBO atomic charges, the Parr electrophilicity index (ω), and the electrostatic potential at the carbon and oxygen atoms of the reaction centre (VC, VO). The predictive ability of these quantities is discussed in a comparative context. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Restricted sidechain plasticity in the structures of native proteins and complexes
Authors: Fleishman Sarel J. , Khare Sagar D. , Koga Nobuyasu , Baker David
Published: February 2011

Protein‐design methodology can now generate models of protein structures and interfaces with computed energies in the range of those of naturally occurring structures. Comparison of the properties of native structures and complexes to isoenergetic design models can provide insight into the properties of the former that reflect selection pressure for factors beyond the energy of the native state. We report here that sidechains in native structures and interfaces are significantly more constrained than designed interfaces and structures with equal computed binding energy or stability, which may reflect selection against potentially deleterious non‐native interactions.
Association Among School‐related, Parental and Self‐related Problems and Morningness–Eveningness in Adolescents
Authors: Vollmer Christian , Schaal Steffen , Hummel Eberhard , Randler Christoph
Published: February 2011

We examined the relationship between morningness–eveningness and three dimensions of everyday stressors troubling adolescent pupils aged 13–16 years. Nine hundred and twenty‐four pupils in secondary education, grades 8 and 9, completed the Composite Scale of Morningness (covering habitual rise times and bedtimes) and three‐item sets of problem perception in adolescents, namely school‐related, parent‐related and self‐related problem perception. Bad school marks, eveningness orientation and type of school are associated with school‐related and parent‐related problems when controlling for age and gender. Girls reported more self‐related problems than boys. Given that school marks and chronotype were the most important moderators of problem perception, the results indicate that later school start times or adolescents changing their late bedtime behaviour, induced by an educational programme, could reduce the adolescents' stress perception and improve their academic performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐independent up‐regulation of intracellular calcium concentration by environmental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in human endothelial HMEC‐1 cells
Authors: Mayati Abdullah , Le Ferrec Eric , Lagadic‐Gossmann Dominique , Fardel Olivier
Published: February 2011

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) constitute a major family of widely‐distributed environmental toxic contaminants, known as potent ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). B(a)P has been recently shown to trigger an early and transient increase of intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), involved in AhR‐related up‐regulation of target genes by B(a)P. This study was designed to determine whether AhR may play a role in [Ca2+]i induction provoked by B(a)P. We demonstrated that, in addition to B(a)P, various PAHs, including pyrene and benzo(e)pyrene, known to not or only very poorly interact with AhR, similarly up‐regulated [Ca2+]i in human endothelial HMEC‐1 cells. Moreover, α‐naphthoflavone, a flavonoïd antagonist of AhR, was also able to induce [Ca2+]i. Knocking‐down AhR expression in HMEC‐1 cells through transfection of siRNAs, was finally demonstrated to not prevent B(a)P‐mediated induction of [Ca2+]i, whereas it efficiently counteracted B(a)P‐mediated induction of the referent AhR target gene cytochrome P‐450 1B1. Taken together, these data demonstrate that environmental PAHs trigger [Ca2+]i induction in an AhR‐independent manner. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Steady flow along a Rankine half‐body
Authors: Crane L.J. , McVeigh A.G.
Published: February 2011

This paper deals with the net frictional drag on a Rankine half‐body in uniform axisymmetric flow. Asymptotic series solutions for the non‐dimensional drag coefficient are developed for flow close to the forward stagnation point and downstream, while for the intermediate region, the solution is obtained by employing interpolating polynomials. Consideration is given to flows having Reynolds number of 100 and 1000. The results are compared to those for a slender uniform cylinder obtained by Seban and Bond [1], Glauert and Lighthill [2], and Curle [3].
Limited value of positron emission tomography in treatment of pancreatic cancer: Surgeon’s view
Authors: Kasperk Reinhard K. , Riesener Klaus‐Peter , Wilms Kirsten , Schumpelick Volker
Published: February 2011

We aimed to assess, from a surgical point of view, the value of positron emission tomography (PET) in the routine preoperative diagnostic evaluation of a pancreatic mass. In particular, we were interested in PET’s ability to distinguish a malignancy from a nonmalignant process and its impact on surgical decision making. We documented prospectively the results of preoperative ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and PET in terms of a correct diagnosis of malignancy in 103 patients. All patients underwent surgery at our department and had a complete histologic workup. We then related the preoperative findings to the intraoperative and histologic findings and analyzed the advantages and limitations of PET in comparison with conventional diagnostic techniques. Both CT and PET showed high sensitivities (82% and 84%, respectively) but rather low specificities (61%). ERCP showed good specificity at 83% but weak sensitivity at 46%. The positive predictive value was higher than 80% for all methods, whereas the negative predictive value was around 60% at best. Both the CT and the PET diagnoses were wrong in 15% of the cases. In all cases with a false CT diagnosis, the results of the other conventional examinations provided sufficient evidence to indicate the need for surgical intervention. In all cases where PET gave misleading results, CT findings indicated the need for surgery. PET overlooked pT1 cancers in three of the patients. PET does not reliably prove or exclude malignancy in situations where conventional diagnostic procedures leave doubt as to the nature of a pancreatic mass. PET does introduce a new procedure‐related spectrum of misinterpretations to the diagnostic process.
Oxidative Stability of Cashew Oils from Raw and Roasted Nuts
Authors: Chandrasekara Neel , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: February 2011

Cashew nut oils, extracted from raw and roasted whole cashew nuts, were examined for their fatty acid composition, color change and oxidative stability. Fatty acids were analyzed using gas chromatography, and a spectrophotometric method was used to determine the color changes of the resultant oils. Oxidative stability was determined under accelerated oxidation conditions by employing conjugated diene (CD) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assays. The contents of monounsaturated (MUFA), polyunsaturated (PUFA) and saturated (SAFA) fatty acids were 61, 17 and 21%, respectively. Oleic acid was the major MUFA whereas linoleic acid was the main PUFA present in cashew nut oils. Oxidative stability of the oil as determined by CD values after 72 h of storage under Schall oven condition at 60 °C was 1.08 and 0.65 for the raw and high temperature roasted cashew nut, respectively. The TBARS values, expressed as malondialdehyde equivalents decreased with increasing roasting temperature. Thus roasting of whole cashew nuts improved the oxidative stability of the resultant nut oils.
Horses and Zebras: complex cardiac anatomy in a patient with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Brown Samuel M. , Miller Dylan V. , Vezina Daniel , Dean Nathan C. , Grissom Colin K.
Published: February 2011

This case report describes a woman presenting after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest with several cardiac anomalies, including a form fruste of Ebstein's anomaly complicated by a large tricuspid valve vegetation. On autopsy, she proved to have unstable plaques in epicardial vessels that likely caused arrhythmic sudden cardiac death, a reminder that even in the presence of rare anomalies, common things are common.
Emergency department diagnosis of atrial and ventricular septal defects, bicuspid aortic valve and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Riley David C. , Kim Inho , Sacco Dana , Rosen Tony
Published: February 2011

Introduction

A 41-year-old Cuban man with Down syndrome and mental retardation was brought to the Emergency Department for episodes of worsening shortness of breath over one day. Bedside color Doppler ultrasound subcostal and apical four-chamber examination of the heart revealed atrial and ventricular septal defects with left-to-right shunting of blood. A right ventricular outflow tract view revealed a bicuspid aortic valve, and continuous wave Doppler ultrasound in the right ventricular inflow tract view revealed tricuspid regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusion

Bedside echocardiography with color Doppler and continuous wave Doppler imaging can assist the emergency physician and the critical care physician in the diagnosis of ASD, VSD, bicuspid aortic valve, and pulmonary hypertension in the Down syndrome patient who is short of breath.
Diagnosis of traumatic iliopsoas hematoma using point-of-care ultrasound
Authors: Kameda Toru , Fujita Masato , Takahashi Isao
Published: February 2011

Case 1 involved a 24-year-old man who complained of severe right groin pain and difficulty of walking after falling to the ground while snowboarding. The patient manifested flexion hip contracture on the right side. Abdominal examination detected tenderness in the right lower quadrant. Point-of-care ultrasound identified swelling of the right psoas major, compressing the right kidney. Case 2 involved a 74-year-old woman who complained of severe left lower quadrant and left groin pain after falling down. This patient also manifested flexion hip contracture, on the left side. Abdominal examination detected tenderness mainly in the left lower quadrant and a palpable mass accompanied by tenderness, lateral to the left femoral artery. Point-of-care ultrasound identified swelling of the left psoas major and of the iliopsoas musculotendinous unit at the level of the groin. Point-of-care ultrasound after obtaining precise history and the physical examination is a very useful modality for the quick diagnosis of iliopsoas hematoma in the emergency rooms.
Sirtuin 1 in skeletal muscle of cachectic tumour‐bearing rats: a role in impaired regeneration?
Authors: Toledo Míriam , Busquets Sílvia , Ametller Elisabet , López-Soriano Francisco J. , Argilés Josep M.
Published: February 2011

Background

In advanced malignant disease, cachexia and muscle wasting appear to be among the most common manifestations. This phenomenon is partially related with a decreased muscle regeneration capacity, as previously described in our laboratory.

Methods and results

Rats bearing the Yoshida AH‐130 ascites hepatoma were used in the experiments. The animals experienced a marked weight loss with decreases in skeletal muscle weights (13% gastrocnemius, 18% extensor digitorum longus, and 12% tibialis muscles). Muscle gene expression was measured using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Skeletal muscle from cachectic tumour‐bearing rats is associated with a decreased expression of genes involved in regeneration such as Pax‐7 (39%), myogenin (24%), and MyoD (17%). mRNA levels of Sirt1 increased (91%) in cachectic skeletal muscle. The Sirt1 gene has been shown to be associated with changes in muscle myoblast differentiation. Treatment of the tumour‐bearing animals with formoterol—a beta2‐agonist—normalizes the expression of genes involved in regeneration (i.e., increase of Pax7 (139%)), at the same time as it does with that of Sirt1 (42% decrease).

Conclusions

It is suggested that the lack of muscle regeneration observed during muscle wasting in tumour‐bearing animals is linked to the action of Sirt‐1, possibly via PGC‐1α. These factors may constitute possible targets of pharmacological treatment against muscle loss, thus potentially contributing to the understanding and mitigation of muscle atrophy associated with disease.
The Eight Pillars of WOM Management: Lessons from a Multiple Case Study
Authors: Williams Martin , Buttle Francis
Published: February 2011

Although word-of-mouth (WOM) has long been seen as an important influence on customer attitude, intention and behavior, very little is known about how, if at all, organisations manage this phenomenon. This paper reports how a sample of service organisations manages WOM. Using a case study approach, we find that there is a widespread appreciation that WOM influences organisational performance indirectly through its impact on customer acquisition, customer loyalty, and organisational reputation. However, our sampled organisations devote considerably more attention, energy and resources to the mitigation of the effects of negative WOM than to the promotion of positive WOM. Two particular processes dominate in this regard – complaints management and crisis management. We find that positive WOM emanates from many organisational influences including, inter alia, the product or service itself, innovation, service-beyond-expectation, networking, external suppliers and communication practices, including advertising and public relations. We present a new model, dubbed The Eight Pillars of WOM, that can be used to identify, interrogate and manage organisational processes that influence both negative and positive WOM.
FIGO classification system (PALM‐COEIN) for causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in nongravid women of reproductive age
Authors: Munro Malcolm G. , Critchley Hilary O.D. , Broder Michael S. , Fraser Ian S. ,   for the FIGO Working Group on Menstrual Disorders
Published: February 2011

There is general inconsistency in the nomenclature used to describe abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), in addition to a plethora of potential causes—several of which may coexist in a given individual. It seems clear that the development of consistent and universally accepted nomenclature is a step toward rectifying this unsatisfactory circumstance. Another requirement is the development of a classification system, on several levels, for the causes of AUB, which can be used by clinicians, investigators, and even patients to facilitate communication, clinical care, and research. This manuscript describes an ongoing process designed to achieve these goals, and presents for consideration the PALM‐COEIN (polyp; adenomyosis; leiomyoma; malignancy and hyperplasia; coagulopathy; ovulatory dysfunction; endometrial; iatrogenic; and not yet classified) classification system for AUB, which has been approved by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Executive Board as a FIGO classification system.
Impact of seroconversion and antichlamydial treatment on the rate of pre‐eclampsia among Egyptian primigravidae
Authors: El‐Shourbagy Mahmoud A.A. , El‐Refaie Tamer A. , Sayed Khalid K.A. , Wahba Karim A.H. , El‐Din Adel S.S. , Fathy Maha M.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To evaluate the effect of antichlamydial treatment andChlamydia pneumoniaeseroconversion on the incidence of pre‐eclampsia among Egyptian primigravidae.

Methods

The present prospective study included 600 healthy normotensive primigravidae who attended an outpatient clinic at 10–16 weeks of pregnancy. A single venous blood sample was collected to test forC. pneumonia‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Seropositive women were randomly allocated to receive or not receive antichlamydial treatment before 20 weeks of pregnancy. Seronegative participants had another test at delivery for the presence ofC. pneumonia‐specific IgG to determine seroconversion. All participants were followed up for up to 8 weeks postpartum and observed for the development of pre‐eclampsia.

Results

The rate of pre‐eclampsia among seropositive participants differed significantly depending on whether the women received treatment or not (6.5% and 19.1%, respectively;P= 0.014). No statistically significant difference in the rate of pre‐eclampsia was detected between seronegative participants who underwent seroconversion and those who did not.

Conclusion

The present results indirectly support the hypothesis that infectious agents (in particularC. pneumoniae) have a role in the development of pre‐eclampsia. The findings also indicate that antichlamydial treatment might help to reduce the incidence of pre‐eclampsia.
Anaesthetic and surgical management of an intra-tracheal mass in a cat
Authors: Drynan Eleanor A. , Moles Aaron D. , Raisis Anthea L.
Published: February 2011

An 11-year-old, 7 kg male neutered domestic shorthair cat, presented to the University Veterinary Hospital (UVH) for investigation of chronic tachypnoea and dyspnoea. Radiographs, bronchoscopy and computerised tomography (CT) demonstrated an intra-tracheal mass measuring 13 mm×5 mm×6 mm arising from the right wall of the caudal trachea immediately cranial to the carina. Due to size and position, debulking and subsequent cryosurgery were attempted to minimise the amount of tissue removed and prevent recurrence. A combination of anaesthetic techniques was required to allow cryotherapy, with the trachea open whilst maintaining adequate ventilation. This case report demonstrates that cryotherapy in conjunction with anaesthetic planning, can achieve a positive outcome for the cat.
Nasopharyngeal stenosis with concurrent hiatal hernia and megaesophagus in an 8-year-old cat
Authors: DeSandre-Robinson Dana M. , Madden Stacey N. , Walker Jackson T.
Published: February 2011

A case of nasopharyngeal stenosis with secondary hiatal hernia is described. An 8-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat was referred for a chronic upper respiratory problem and presumptive vomiting. Despite conservative management by the primary care veterinarian, the cat's condition progressed. The cat was presented to an emergency facility prior to referral to a specialty hospital. On presentation, inspiratory stridor was evident. Thoracic radiography revealed a hiatal hernia. Computed tomography indicated pharyngeal edema and probable nasopharyngeal stenosis. Endoscopy confirmed the presence of nasopharyngeal stenosis consistent with either stricture or choanal atresia. Balloon dilation of the choana was performed. The hiatal hernia regressed spontaneously post-resolution of the nasopharyngeal stenosis. The cat remained asymptomatic at recheck 3 months later.
Congenital Portosystemic Shunts in Cats
Authors: Tivers Michael , Lipscomb Victoria
Published: February 2011

Practical relevance Although the surgical management of feline congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSSs) is normally performed at specialist centres, a good knowledge of treatment options and prognosis is important for the general practitioner when advising clients.

Clinical challenges A variety of surgical techniques are described for the correction of CPSSs in cats. Choosing between the different techniques is a challenge, given the limited availability of evidence supporting one technique over another. In addition, postoperative complications, and in particular neurological complications, are seen more frequently in the cat than the dog and thus postoperative monitoring and treatment is critically important in feline patients.

Audience This article summarises current evidence in surgical management and is aimed at practising veterinarians, postgraduate students and specialists alike.

Equipment Surgical management of CPSSs typically requires advanced surgical and critical care facilities. The precise nature will depend to some extent on the technique employed.

Evidence base The evidence base for decision making in the surgical management of CPSSs is relatively sparse. In reviewing the evidence that is available, as well as the areas in which information is still lacking, this article may hopefully serve as a stimulus for further investigation into this condition.
Mycobacterium Microti Infection in the Cat
Authors: Rüfenacht Silvia , Bögli-Stuber Katja , Bodmer Thomas , Jaunin Valérie F Bornand , Jmaa Danielle C Gonin , Gunn-Moore Danièlle A
Published: February 2011

Overview Mycobacterium microti infection is infrequently described in cats in the veterinary literature. It can be one of a large number of possible differential diagnoses in a feline patient with dermal nodules and non-healing draining ulcers, and can occasionally spread to involve the lungs and/or other areas of the body.

Case summary This report describes the clinical signs, eventual diagnosis and variable response to treatment in a cat in Switzerland with recurrent cutaneous M microti infection. Only after several diagnostic and therapeutic attempts, over more than 2 years, was the species of Mycobacterium finally identified and targeted therapy given.

Practical relevance For any cat in which there is even a low suspicion of mycobacterial infection, the authors recommend that an aggressive diagnostic approach is taken. Tissue specimens should be collected and frozen early on, and, as soon as acid-fast bacilli are detected, samples should be sent to a mycobacterial reference laboratory for definitive identification.

Literature review A review of the literature relating to the aetiopathogenesis, diagnosis and management of M microti infection in cats and dogs is included. This is supplemented with clinical and therapeutic experience gained from this case and other, unpublished cases managed over the past 15 years by one of the authors (DGM).
Duodenal perforation caused by Rhizomucor species in a cat
Authors: Cunha Simone C S , Aguero Christiane , Damico Cristiane B , Corgozinho Katia B , Souza Heloisa J M , Pimenta Ana Luiza P , Marassi Carla D
Published: February 2011

Clinical summary A 7-month-old female Persian cat presented with gastrointestinal (GI) necrosis and perforation caused by Rhizomucor species. Unfortunately, the cat died of bacterial peritonitis and sepsis before a definitive diagnosis, based on histopathology and fungal culture, was achieved.

Practical relevance This appears to be the first reported case of GI disease caused by Rhizomucor species in a cat. Mucorales infections typically cause acute and rapidly progressive disease. As illustrated by this case, clinicians should be alert to the potentially fatal consequences of an opportunistic Rhizomucor species infection in their feline patients.
Effect of soya protein on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Dong Jia-Yi , Tong Xing , Wu Zhi-Wei , Xun Peng-Cheng , He Ka , Qin Li-Qiang
Published: February 2011

Observational studies have indicated that soya food consumption is inversely associated with blood pressure (BP). Evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCT) on the BP-lowering effects of soya protein intake is inconclusive. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of soya protein intake in lowering BP. The PubMed database was searched for published RCT in the English language through to April 2010, which compared a soya protein diet with a control diet. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to examine the effects of soya protein on BP. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed to explore possible explanations for heterogeneity among trials. Meta-analyses of twenty-seven RCT showed a mean decrease of 2·21 mmHg (95 % CI − 4·10, − 0·33;P = 0·021) for systolic BP (SBP) and 1·44 mmHg (95 % CI − 2·56, − 0·31;P = 0·012) for diastolic BP (DBP), comparing the participants in the soya protein group with those in the control group. Soya protein consumption significantly reduced SBP and DBP in both hypertensive and normotensive subjects, and the reductions were markedly greater in hypertensive subjects. Significant and greater BP reductions were also observed in trials using carbohydrate, but not milk products, as the control diet. Meta-regression analyses further revealed a significantly inverse association between pre-treatment BP and the level of BP reductions. In conclusion, soya protein intake, compared with a control diet, significantly reduces both SBP and DBP, but the BP reductions are related to pre-treatment BP levels of subjects and the type of control diet used as comparison.
The Question of Translation in Taiwanese Colonial Cinematic Space
Authors: Chiu Kuei-Fen
Published: February 2011

This essay studies the practice of cultural translation in colonial Taiwanese cinematic space. Just as the Japanese translation of Western cinema brings into play traces of Japanese otherness, the Taiwanese translation of the Japanese translation disrupts the Japanese monopoly on the meaning of cinematic experience in colonial Taiwan. A key figure in this complex cultural translation was the benshi, a translator who performed alongside the screen to interpret the film for the audience. This study argues that an overemphasis on the interventional power of the benshi's word does not do justice to the complex role of the benshi as a translator. In spite of its inscription of the cultural specific in the cinematic space, the presence of the benshi is also a reminder of an unfulfilled desire: the desire for the (foreign) image and the desire for the other. Insofar as the act of translation is a critical engagement with the challenges posed by the other, a simplistic celebration of local resistance does not help us fully address the complexity of cultural translation that defines the mediascape of the modern age.
The Location of “Korean” Culture: Ch'oe Chaesŏ and Korean Literature in a Time of Transition
Authors: Suh Serk-Bae
Published: February 2011

This essay focuses on Ch'oe Chaesŏ, a leading Korean intellectual, active translator of English literary criticism, and editor in chief of Kokumin Bungaku (National Literature), a prominent Japanese-language journal published in colonial Korea. Ch'oe asserted that the unfolding of history in the twentieth century demanded a paradigmatic transition from liberalism to state-centered nationalism in culture. He also privileged everyday life as allowing people to live as members of communities that ultimately are integrated into the state. By positioning Koreans firmly as subjects of the Japanese state, his argument implied that the colonized should be treated on a par with the colonizers. Further, Ch'oe advocated Koreans' cultural autonomy as an ethnic group within the Japanese empire. Tracing Ch'oe's early life and examining his critical essays on nation, culture, and state, the author discusses how his endeavors to establish an autonomous space for Korean culture simultaneously legitimized Japanese colonial control.