bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postpartum Depression: Is Mode of Delivery a Risk Factor?
Authors: Goker Asli , Yanikkerem Emre , Demet M. Murat , Dikayak Serife , Yildirim Yasemin , Koyuncu Faik M.
Published: December 2012

There are various factors related to postpartum depression. In this study we have aimed to determine the effect of mode of delivery on the risk of postpartum depression. A total of 318 women who applied for delivery were included in the study. Previously diagnosed fetal anomalies, preterm deliveries, stillbirths, and patients with need of intensive care unit were excluded from the study. Data about the patients were obtained during hospital stay. During the postpartum sixth week visit Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS) was applied. There was no significant difference between EPDS scores when compared according to age, education, gravidity, wanting the pregnancy, fear about birth, gender, family type, and income level (). Those who had experienced emesis during their pregnancy, had a history of depression, and were housewives had significantly higher EPDS scores (). Delivering by spontaneous vaginal birth, elective Cesarean section, or emergency Cesarean section had no effect on EPDS scores. In conclusion healthcare providers should be aware of postpartum depression risk in nonworking women with a history of emesis and depression and apply the EPDS to them for early detection of postpartum depression.
Targeted Treatments for Restenosis and Vein Graft Disease
Authors: Thomas Anita C.
Published: December 2012

Surgery to restore blood flow in arteries blocked by atherosclerotic plaque is a common treatment in cardiovascular disease. Long-term complications of surgical treatment are vein graft disease and restenosis, a renarrowing of the blood vessel after bypass or removal of the culprit atherosclerotic plaque. Attempts to prevent or treat these complications by systemic pharmacological approaches have been largely unsuccessful in the clinic. This has led to an interest in developing targeted or locally delivered strategies. This paper discusses many of the various site-delivered therapies that are under examination as potential antirestenotic and antivein graft disease agents (including antithrombotic, antiproliferative, and anti-inflammatory agents) and why many therapies developed in animal models fail in clinical trials. Techniques of targeted delivery (including stents, “magic bullets,” and adventitial delivery) and delivery systems (including nanoparticles and the use of gene therapy) are also discussed.
Simultaneous Repair of Cleft Hard Palate by Vomer Flap along with Cleft Lip in Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate Patients
Authors: Ferdous Kazi Md. Noor-ul , Saif Ullah M. , Shajahan M. , Mitul M. Ashrarur Rahman , Islam M. Kabirul , Das Kiorsh Kumar , Mannan M. A. , Rahman M. Junaed , Biswas Sanjoy , Salek A. J. M. , Das Bijoy Krishna
Published: December 2012

The purpose of the study was to see the short-term outcome of simultaneous repair of cleft lip and cleft hard palate with vomer flap against cleft lip repair alone in patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate (UCLP). A prospective observational study was carried out in 35 patients with unilateral complete cleft lip and palate who under-went cleft lip and cleft hard palate repair with vomer flaps simultaneously. After 3 months, cleft soft palate was repaired. During 1st and 2nd operations, the gap between cleft alveolus and posterior border of the cleft hard palate was measured. Postoperative complications, requirement of blood transfusion during the operation, and duration of operations were also recorded. Simultaneous repairs of cleft lip and closure of cleft hard palate with vomer flaps are easy to perform and are very effective for the repair of cleft lip and palate in UCLP patients. No blood transfusion was needed. Gaps of alveolar cleft and at the posterior border of hard palate were reduced remarkably, which made the closure of the soft palate easier, decreased operation time, and also decreased the chance of oronasal fistula formation.
Kinematic Modelling and Simulation of a 2-R Robot Using SolidWorks and Verification by MATLAB/Simulink
Authors: Gouasmi Mahmoud , Ouali Mohammed , Fernini Brahim , Meghatria M'hamed
Published: December 2012

The simulation of robot systems is becoming very popular, especially with the lowering of the cost of computers, and it can be used for layout evaluation, feasibility studies, presentations with animation and off-line programming.

The trajectory planning of redundant manipulators is a very active area since many tasks require special characteristics to be satisfied. The importance of redundant manipulators has increased over the last two decades because of the possibility of avoiding singularities as well as obstacles within the course of motion. The angle that the last link of a 2 DOF manipulator makes with the x-axis is required in order to find the solution for the inverse kinematics problem. This angle could be optimized with respect to a given specified key factor (time, velocity, torques) while the end-effector performs a chosen trajectory (i.e., avoiding an obstacle) in the task space.

Modeling and simulation of robots could be achieved using either of the following models: the geometrical model (positions, postures), the kinematic model and the dynamic model.

To do so, the modelization of a 2-R robot type is implemented. Our main tasks are comparing two robot postures with the same trajectory (path) and for the same length of time, and establishing a computing code to obtain the kinematic and dynamic parameters.

SolidWorks and MATLAB/Simulink softwares are used to check the theory and the robot motion simulation.

This could be easily generalized to a 3-R robot and possibly therefore to any serial robot (Scara, Puma, etc.).

The verification of the obtained results by both softwares allows us to qualitatively evaluate and underline the validityof the chosen model and obtain the right conclusions. The results of the simulations are discussed and an agreement between the two softwares is certainly obtained.
RecA filament sliding on DNA facilitates homology search
Authors: Ragunathan Kaushik , Liu Cheng , Ha Taekjip
Published: December 2012

During homologous recombination, RecA forms a helical filament on a single stranded (ss) DNA that searches for a homologous double stranded (ds) DNA and catalyzes the exchange of complementary base pairs to form a new heteroduplex. Using single molecule fluorescence imaging tools with high spatiotemporal resolution we characterized the encounter complex between the RecA filament and dsDNA. We present evidence in support of the ‘sliding model’ wherein a RecA filament diffuses along a dsDNA track. We further show that homology can be detected during sliding. Sliding occurs with a diffusion coefficient of approximately 8000 bp2/s allowing the filament to sample several hundred base pairs before dissociation. Modeling suggests that sliding can accelerate homology search by as much as 200 fold. Homology recognition can occur for as few as 6 nt of complementary basepairs with the recognition efficiency increasing for higher complementarity. Our data represents the first example of a DNA bound multi-protein complex which can slide along another DNA to facilitate target search.
The activity-dependent histone variant H2BE modulates the life span of olfactory neurons
Authors: Santoro Stephen W , Dulac Catherine
Published: December 2012

We have identified a replication-independent histone variant, Hist2h2be (referred to herein as H2be), which is expressed exclusively by olfactory chemosensory neurons. Levels of H2BE are heterogeneous among olfactory neurons, but stereotyped according to the identity of the co-expressed olfactory receptor (OR). Gain- and loss-of-function experiments demonstrate that changes in H2be expression affect olfactory function and OR representation in the adult olfactory epithelium. We show that H2BE expression is reduced by sensory activity and that it promotes neuronal cell death, such that inactive olfactory neurons display higher levels of the variant and shorter life spans. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of H2BE differ from those of the canonical H2B, consistent with a role for H2BE in altering transcription. We propose a physiological function for H2be in modulating olfactory neuron population dynamics to adapt the OR repertoire to the environment.
How keeping active pays off in the olfactory system
Authors: Monahan Kevin , Lomvardas Stavros
Published: December 2012

A protein that is found in the main olfactory epithelium of mice ensures that odour-sensing neurons that are active to have longer lifespans than those that are inactive.
Sliding to the rescue of damaged DNA
Authors: Gibb Bryan , Greene Eric C
Published: December 2012

Single-molecule imaging experiments have shed new light on the methods used by the enzyme RecA to align single- and double-stranded DNA so that double-strand breaks can be repaired.
Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Authors: Gupta Sandeep , Sinha Rajesh , Sharma Namrata , Titiyal Jeewan S
Published: December 2012

Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) are important because they mimic many common indolent lesions like pterygium and have a potential for causing ocular and systemic morbidity and mortality. Ultraviolet-B light and human papilloma viruses have been proposed as major risk factors in the etiopathogensis. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography, ultrasonic biomicroscopy and impression cytology have been added recently as non-surgical tools for diagnosis and management. The treatment includes surgery as mainstay with Mitomycin-C and cryotherapy as adjuvant therapy. Recently Interferons (IFN) as well as pegylated IFNs are regularly being used in a select subsets of OSSN for treatment.
Orbital Cysticercosis
Authors: Bodh Sonam Angmo , Kamal Saurabh , Kumar Sushil , Goel Ruchi , Nagpal Smriti , Aditya Ksitij
Published: December 2012

One of the most important parasites which frequently causes blindness in humans is the cysticercus cellulosae. Cysticercus cellulosae, the larval form of the pork tapeworm Taenia solium, is the causative organism of cysticercosis, in which humans are the intermediate hosts in the life cycle. Cysticercus cellulosae may become encysted in various bodily tissues, usually the eyes, central nervous system, and subcutaneous tissues. An immunologic reaction with fairly intense inflammatory signs and symptoms may be produced, and the surrounding structures may be compressed. Acquired strabismus, diplopia, recurrent redness, and painful proptosis are some of the clinical signs in patients with orbital cysticercosis. Diagnosis of cysticercosis is based mainly on orbital imaging because of its highly specific appearance. Medical therapy is the main stay of treatment.
Comparison of Medical Versus Surgical Treatment for Newly Diagnosed Cases of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Babber Meenu , Baisakhiya Shikha , Manjhi Prafulla , Sidhu HK , Sharma Neha
Published: December 2012

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy of 0.5% timolol maleate eye drops with trabeculectomy in the treatment of recently diagnosed cases Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).

Material and Methods:

Total 60 patients were included in the study and were randomly divided into two groups of 30 patients each. Group A was treated with topical timolol maleate ophthalmic solution (0.5%) twice daily while Group B was treated surgically by trabeculectomy. Baseline IOP (intraocular pressure), visual acuity, visual fields and C:D (cup disc ratio) ratio were noted before the initiation of therapy in both groups. The subsequent follow up were done weekly for first two weeks then at one month and subsequently three monthly upto one year.

Results:

In the present study, the mean reduction in IOP at the end of 1 year was 8.20 ± 0.75 mm Hg in group A and 10.40 ± 0.28 mm of Hg in group B. Greater IOP reduction was seen in group B. Although no significant change in CD ratio was observed in the two groups. In group A 30 % patients had deterioration in visual fields whereas in group B deterioration was seen in 15% patients. The visual acuity remained stable in both the study groups.

Conclusion:

In the present study it was concluded that mean IOP, visual field and visual acuity were better controlled on surgical treatment as compared to medical treatment.
Surgical Technique for Managing Deep Corneal Hematoma following Penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Chaudhary Kulbhushan P , Gupta Vinay
Published: December 2012

We report a surgical technique to manage deep corneal hematoma following penetrating Keratoplasty.
A 30 year old male patient with subtotal vascularized corneal opacity in right eye with adherent leucoma underwent penetrating Keratoplasty. Donor corneal graft of 7.5mm was sutured with 16 10-0 monofilament nylon suture. Post operative period was uneventful and the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 6/24 at 6 weeks follow up. Patient presented 22 weeks after penetrating Keratoplasty with sudden diminution of vision with deep corneal hematoma and blood vessels at 5.30, 6.30, 9.30 and 11.30 positions. Cauterization of vessels was done with drainage of hematoma from 7 o clock position through host graft junction and wash with BSS solution was done. Patients graft became clear with resolution of hematoma and regression of vessels. Patients BCVA 10 weeks post drainage was 6/12. Deep corneal hematoma is a rare complication after penetrating Keratoplasty and not been reported in literature. The refractory cases can be managed by cauterization & drainage of deep corneal hematoma.
Minocycline induced Bilateral Optic Disc Edema
Authors: Verma Lalit , Chakravarti Arindam , Gupta Avnindra , Prakash Smriti
Published: December 2012

Bilateral optic disc swelling is a striking sign that can result from a variety of systemic pathologies or as a response to increased intracranial pressure. Case of a young lady who presented with minocycline induced bilateral optic disc edema is highlighted. She underwent a series of invasive and non invasive tests before the exact cause could be elicited. On cessation of the drug, the optic disc edema resolved in both eyes within a month without any residual defect. It is notable that she did not present with raised intracranial pressure as is generally typical of such patients as her cerebrospinal fluid pressure was normal.
Bowman Keratomileusis: Better than Laser Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK)?
Authors: Kaur Savleen , Jain Sparshi
Published: December 2012

The most important factor in undertaking a refractive procedure is that we need to be within the stroma to make it comfortable to the patient. But, from a biomechanical standpoint, we need to be as superficial as we can. Also to decrease wound-healing complications, we must avoid any damage to the epithelium. That’s why, the switch over to thinner flaps. A new technique known as sub bowmans keratomileusis offers us more room for doing wider and deeper ablations and serves as a bridge between surface ablation and LASIK
Papillary Muscle Sandwich Plasty for the Treatment of Functional Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Ishikawa Susumu , Ueda Keisuke , Neya Kazuo , Kawasaki Akio , Kakinuma Akihito , Sakamoto Hidetoshi , Kuwana Koji , Nagatani Hirokazu , Otake Hiroshi , Morita Shigeho
Published: December 2012

We evaluated the availability of original “sandwich plasty” for the treatment of functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) associated with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and aortic valve disease (AVD). Forty-three patients were reviewed, including 27 IHD patients and 16 AVD patients. Preoperatively severe FMR was detected in 14 patients, moderate FMR in 26, and mild FMR in 3. The papillary muscle heads of anterior leaflets and posterior leaflets were approximated using Teflon-pledgeted 3-0 Ticron sutures at anterolateral and posteromedial commissural portions. After surgery, residual moderate FMR was observed in 1 patient and mild FMR in 3 patients. Tenting height of the mitral valve significantly decreased. FMR free rates 2 years after surgery were 93% among IHD patients and 83% in AVD patients. “Sandwich plasty” was simple and effective for the treatment of functional FMR caused by tethering effects due to left ventricular dilatation.
Two Cases of Diverticulitis in Patients With Williams Syndrome
Authors: Yamada H. , Ishihara S. , Akahane T. , Shimada R. , Horiuchi A. , Shibuya H. , Aoyagi Y. , Nakamura K. , Iinuma H. , Hayama T. , Nozawa K. , Matsuda K. , Watanabe T.
Published: December 2012

Williams syndrome is rare and associated with physical anomalies and mental retardation. It is a disease resulting from a gene deletion of chromosome 7. The main concurrent medical conditions typically associated with Williams syndrome are heart defects such as supravalvular aortic stenosis, mental retardation, and unusual physical characteristics. It is also associated with colon diverticulosis and diverticulitis. In the present article, we report on 2 cases of diverticulitis in patients with Williams syndrome, in whom surgery was performed. In many cases of diverticulitis in patients with Williams syndrome, surgical treatment is indicated. It is important to take diverticulitis into consideration when examining a patient with Williams syndrome presenting with abdominal pain and consider surgical treatment if necessary.
Solitary Rectal Ulcer Syndrome: Exploring Possible Management Options
Authors: Bulut Turker , Canbay Emel , Yamaner Sumer , Gulluoglu Mine , Bugra Dursun
Published: December 2012

Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome (SRUS) is a rare condition with various causes that results in ischemic injury. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical findings, diagnosis, and outcomes of treatment in patients with SRUS. Between 1992 and 2006, a retrospective review was undertaken for all patients diagnosed with SRUS. Fifty-eight patients were diagnosed with SRUS. Among patients with paradoxic rectal spasm (PRS), lesions disappeared in 1 of 3 given applied biofeedback treatment, and in 2 of 4 injected with Botulinum toxin (BotoxTM). Twenty-three patients underwent appropriate surgical treatment. Overall, postoperative improvement was seen in 18 patients (78.2%). In conclusion, every patient with SRUS must be assessed for causative disease. Treatment should include conservative approaches such as Botox injection; in patients with pelvic floor disorders, surgical treatment should be considered.
Oncologic Outcome of Stages II/III Colon Cancer Treated via Minilaparotomy
Authors: Ishida Hideyuki , Ishiguro Toru , Ohsawa Tomonori , Okada Norimichi , Kumamoto Kensuke , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Haga Norihiro , Yokoyama Masaru , Nakada Hiroshi , Gonda Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2012

We analyzed clinicopathologic, surgical, and survival data on consecutive series of patients with stages II/III colon cancer for whom curative resection via minilaparotomy (skin incision, ≤7 cm) was attempted between September 2002 and March 2009 to clarify the oncologic safety of this type of surgery. There were 64 men and 55 women; the median age was 70 years (range, 25–91 years). The median body mass index was 21.7 kg/m2 (range, 15.1–28.9 kg/m2). The minilaparotomy approach was successful in 115 cases (96.6%). The cumulative 5-year disease-free and overall survival rates were 89.7% and 82.4%, respectively, in patients with stage II disease (n  =  62) and were 68.4% and 82.4%, respectively, in patients with stage III disease (n  =  57), all of which were compatible with those of the historical control patients who underwent conventional open surgery. Minilaparotomy approach for stages II/III colon cancer seems to be oncologically equivalent to conventional open surgery.
Mirizzi Syndrome—Two Case Reports and a Short Review of the Literature
Authors: Petricevic Petar B. , Kontic Olga M. , Petricevic Miomira Z. , Kontic Marko M. , Smit Geza
Published: December 2012

The authors have analyzed the problem of Mirizzi syndrome (MS) and found in the literature that it was reported in 0.3% to 3% of patients undergoing cholecystectomy. Anatomic disorder, especially the presence of cholecystocholedochal fistula, increases the risk of bile duct injury during cholecystectomy, albeit more often during laparoscopic than laparotomic cholecystectomy. A comparative study was performed regarding the incidence of MS in two groups of patients: 332 patients in Zrenjanin in the year 2009, and 531 patients in Belgrade in the year 2005, with an incidence of MS found in 2 patients in Zrenjanin (0.63%) and 4 patients in Belgrade (0.75%). The incidence rate was 6% in Zrenjanin and 7.5% in Belgrade, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. All patients with MS were diagnosed during the operative period using operative cholangiography. During preoperative diagnosis, patients underwent laboratory ultrasound examination, and those who were suspected of having an anatomic disorder underwent operative cholangiography, although patients today more often undergo choledochoscopy then cholangiography. MS according to classification by Csendes was found in all 6 patients undergoing operation.
A Novel Technique for Three-Dimensional Reconstruction for Surgical Simulation Around the Craniocervical Junction Region
Authors: Liu Guang-Jiu , Zhang Shao-Xiang , Qiu Ming-Guo , Tan Li-Wen , Li Qi-Yu , Li Kai
Published: December 2012

Performing surgeries on the craniocervical junction presents a technical challenge for operating surgeons. Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and surgical simulation have improved the efficacy and success rate of surgeries. The aim of this study was to create a 3D, digitized visible model of the craniocervical junction region to help realize accurate simulation of craniocervical surgery on a graphic workstation. Transverse sectional anatomy data for the study were chosen from the first Chinese visible human. Manual axial segmentation of the skull base, cervical spine, cerebellum, vertebral artery, internal carotid artery, sigmoid sinus, internal jugular vein, brain stem, and spinal cord were carried out by using Photoshop software. The segmented structures were reconstructed in 3 dimensions with surface and volume rendering to accurately display 3D models spatially. In contrast to conventional 3D reconstruction techniques that are based on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) inputs and provide mostly osseous details, this technique can help to illustrate the surrounding soft tissue structure and provide a realistic surgical simulation. The reconstructed 3D model was successfully used in simulating complex procedures in the virtual environment, including the transoral approach, bone drillings, and clivus resection.
Ectopic Bone Formation and Extramedullary Hematopoiesis in the Thyroid Gland: Report of a Case and Literature Review
Authors: Akbulut Sami , Yavuz Ridvan , Akansu Bulent , Sogutcu Nilgun , Arikanoglu Zulfu , Basbug Murat
Published: December 2012

This purpose of this article is to document ectopic bone formation (EBF) and extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) in thyroidectomy specimens. We present a case of multinodular goiter with EMH and EBF, as well as a literature review of studies published in the English language on EMH and/or bone formation in the thyroid gland, accessed through PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Thirteen published cases of EMH and/or EBF in the thyroid gland were evaluated, and a case of multinodular goiter with histopathologically proven EMH and EBF in a 54-year-old woman is herein presented. In the reviewed literature, 12 patients were women, and 1 was a man (age range, 28–82 years; median, 56.46 ± 18 years). EMH was histopathologically detected in 8 patients, EMH and EBF were detected in 4 patients, and only bone formation was detected in 1 patient. Although a solitary nodule was detected in 7 patients, multinodular goiter was detected in 6 patients. Fine needle aspiration cytology was used in the preoperative period to arrive at a diagnosis in 6 of the 13 patients, but it was not possible to obtain proper biopsy material in the remaining patients. Although no previously known hematologic disease was detected in 11 patients, 2 were known to have myelofibrosis in the preoperative period. When EMH is pathologically detected in the thyroid, the question of whether there is an underlying hematologic disease in the patient must be investigated. In addition, it must be kept in mind during fine needle aspiration cytology and frozen section examinations that EMH may be among the differential diagnoses for anaplastic thyroid cancers.
Demographics and Care-Seeking Behaviors of Sexual Violence Survivors in South Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Bartels Susan A. , Scott Jennifer A. , Leaning Jennifer , Kelly Jocelyn T. , Joyce Nina R. , Mukwege Denis , VanRooyen Michael J.
Published: December 2012

Objectives: One of the most striking features of the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the use of sexual violence. In spite of the brutality of these crimes, the experiences of women affected by sexual violence in Eastern DRC remain poorly characterized. This analysis aimed to (1) provide detailed demographics of sexual violence survivors presenting to Panzi Hospital; (2) examine how demographic factors might impact patterns of sexual violence; and (3) describe care-seeking behavior among sexual violence survivors.

Methods: The demographics and care-seeking behavior of sexual violence survivors in South Kivu Province were described from a retrospective registry-based study of sexual violence survivors presenting to Panzi Hospital (2004-2008).

Results: A total of 4311 records were reviewed. The mean age of survivors was 35 years. Most women (53%) were married, self-identified with the Bashi tribe (65%), and reported agriculture as their livelihood (74%). The mean time delay between sexual assault and seeking care was 10.4 months. Five reasons were identified to help explain the lengthy delays to seeking care: waiting for physical symptoms to develop or worsen before seeking medical attention, lack of means to access medical care, concerns that family would find out about the sexual assault, stigma surrounding sexual violence, and being abducted into sexual slavery for prolonged periods of time.

Conclusions: Many sexual assault survivors have very delayed presentations to medical attention. Promoting timely access of medical care may best be facilitated by reducing stigma and by educating women about the benefits of early medical care, even in the absence of injuries or symptoms.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2012;6:393-401)
Bioresponsive Hydrogels
Authors: Wilson A. Nolan , Guiseppi‐Elie Anthony
Published: December 2012

Bioresponsive hydrogels are emerging with technological significance in targeted drug delivery, biosensors, and regenerative medicine. Their ability to respond to specific biologically derived stimuli creates a design challenge in effectively linking the conferred biospecificity with an engineered response tailored to the needs of a particular application. Moreover, the fundamental phenomena governing the response must support an appropriate dynamic range, limit of detection, and the potential for feedback control. The design of these systems is inherently complicated due to the high interdependency of the governing phenomena that guide sensing, transduction, and actuation of the hydrogel. Future advancements in bioresponsive hydrogels will out of necessity contain control loops similar to synthetic metabolic pathways. The use of these materials will continue to expand as they become coupled and integrated with new technologies.
Synthesis of High Aspect Ratio BaTiO3 Nanowires for High Energy Density Nanocomposite Capacitors
Authors: Tang Haixiong , Lin Yirong , Sodano Henry A.
Published: December 2012

High energy density capacitors are critically important in advanced electronic devices and power systems since they can reduce the weight, size and cost required to meet a desired application. Nanocomposites hold strong potential for increasing the performance of high power energy sources; however, the energy density of most nanocomposites is still low compared to commercial capacitors and neat polymers. Here, we develop a new synthesis method for the growth of high aspect ratio barium titanate nanowires (BaTiO3) nanowires (NWs) with high yield. High energy density nanocomposite capacitors are fabricated using surface‐functionalized high aspect ratio BaTiO3 NWs in a poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene‐chlorofluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE)) matrix. At a 17.5% volume fraction, the nanocomposites show more than 45.3% increase in energy density above that of the pure P(VDF‐TrFE‐CFE) polymer (10.48 J/cc compared to 7.21 J/cc) at electric field 300 MV/m. This value is significant and exceeds those reported for the conventional polymer‐ceramic nanocomposites; it is also more than seven times larger than high performance commercial polypropylene capacitor (1.2 J/cc at 640 MV/m). In addition, our nanocomposite capacitor has a maximum power density as high as 1.2 MW/cc occurring only 1.52 μs after the start of discharge. The findings of this research could lead to enhanced interest in nanowires based nanocomposites due to their potential for achieving next generation energy storage devices.
Hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate to ethylene glycol over mesoporous Cu‐MCM‐41 catalysts
Authors: Ma Xinbin , Chi Hanwen , Yue Hairong , Zhao Yujun , Xu Yan , Lv Jing , Wang Shengping , Gong Jinlong
Published: December 2012

The synthesis and utilization of mesoporous Cu‐MCM‐41 catalysts for hydrogenation of dimethyl oxalate to ethylene glycol is described in this article. Physicochemical properties of these Cu‐MCM‐41 catalysts have been investigated by N2‐physisorption, X‐ray diffraction, inductively coupled plasma, N2O titration, transmission electron microscopy, temperature programmed reduction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was found that the copper loading significantly influenced the pore structure and copper surface area of the catalyst. High catalytic performance is obtained over a 20Cu‐MCM‐41 catalyst with a full DMO conversion and EG yield of 92% at a LHSV of 3.0 h−1. The catalytic performance of optimized 20Cu‐MCM‐41 catalyst could be attributed to the fine copper dispersion and large copper surface areas. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2530–2539, 2013
Advanced imaging improves prediction of hemorrhage after stroke thrombolysis
Authors: Campbell Bruce C. V. , Christensen Søren , Parsons Mark W. , Churilov Leonid , Desmond Patricia M. , Barber P. Alan , Butcher Kenneth S. , Levi Christopher R. , De Silva Deidre A. , Lansberg Maarten G. , Mlynash Michael , Olivot Jean‐Marc , Straka Matus , Bammer Roland , Albers Gregory W. , Donnan Geoffrey A. , Davis Stephen M.
Published: December 2012

Objective

Very low cerebral blood volume (VLCBV), diffusion, and hypoperfusion lesion volumes have been proposed as predictors of hemorrhagic transformation following stroke thrombolysis. We aimed to compare these parameters, validate VLCBV in an independent cohort using DEFUSE study data, and investigate the interaction of VLCBV with regional reperfusion.

Methods

The EPITHET and DEFUSE studies obtained diffusion and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients 3 to 6 hours from onset of ischemic stroke. EPITHET randomized patients to tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or placebo, and all DEFUSE patients received tPA. VLCBV was defined as cerebral blood volume<2.5th percentile of brain contralateral to the infarct. Parenchymal hematoma (PH) was defined using European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study criteria. Reperfusion was assessed using subacute perfusion MRI coregistered to baseline imaging.

Results

In DEFUSE, 69 patients were analyzed, including 9 who developed PH. The >2 ml VLCBV threshold defined in EPITHET predicted PH with 100% sensitivity, 72% specificity, 35% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value. Pooling EPITHET and DEFUSE (163 patients, including 23 with PH), regression models using VLCBV (p<0.001) and tPA (p=0.02) predicted PH independent of clinical factors better than models using diffusion or time to maximum>8 seconds lesion volumes. Excluding VLCBV in regions without reperfusion improved specificity from 61 to 78% in the pooled analysis.

Interpretation

VLCBV predicts PH after stroke thrombolysis and appears to be a more powerful predictor than baseline diffusion or hypoperfusion lesion volumes. Reperfusion of regions of VLCBV is strongly associated with post‐thrombolysis PH. VLCBV may be clinically useful to identify patients at significant risk of hemorrhage following reperfusion. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:510–519
Field localization and rescattering in tip‐enhanced photoemission
Authors: Yalunin Sergey V. , Herink Georg , Solli Daniel R. , Krüger Michael , Hommelhoff Peter , Diehn Manuel , Munk Axel , Ropers Claus
Published: December 2012

This article presents a quantum mechanical treatment of strong‐field photoelectron emission from nanostructures. The effects of a spatial inhomogeneity of the optical near‐field are identified. Furthermore, the importance of electron scattering at the surface is elucidated by contrasting simulations with and without backscattering. Convincing agreement with experimental data under various conditions is demonstrated.
Comparison of accelerated aging of silicone rubber gasket material with aging in a fuel cell environment
Authors: Pehlivan‐Davis Sebnem , Clarke Jane , Armour Simon
Published: December 2012

A polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell stack requires gaskets in each cell to keep the reactant gases within their respective regions. Both sealing and electrochemical performance of the fuel cell depend on the long‐term stability of the gasket materials. In this paper, the change in properties and structure of a silicone rubber gasket brought about by use in a fuel cell was studied and compared to the changes in the same silicone rubber gasket material brought about by accelerated aging. The accelerated aging conditions were chosen to relate to the PEM fuel cell environment, but with more extreme conditions of elevated temperature (140°C) and greater acidity. The dilute sulfuric acid accelerated aging solutions used had pH values of 1, 2, and 4. In an additional test, Nafion® membrane suspended in water was used for accelerated aging, to more closely correspond to a PEM fuel cell environment. The analysis showed that acid hydrolysis was the most likely mechanism of degradation and that similar degradation occurred under both real fuel cell and accelerated aging conditions. It was concluded that the accelerated aging test is a good one for rapidly screening materials for resistance to the acidic environment of the fuel cell. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
A comparative study on some properties of wood plastic composites using canola stalk, Paulownia, and nanoclay
Authors: Zahedi Meysam , Tabarsa Taghi , Ashori Alireza , Madhoushi Mehrab , Shakeri Alireza
Published: December 2012

In this research, the reinforcing effect of fillers including canola stalk, paulownia and nanoclay, in polypropylene (PP) has been investigated. In the sample preparation, 50 wt% of lignocellulosic materials and 0, 3, and 5 wt% of nanoclay particles were used. The results showed that while flexural and tensile properties were moderately enhanced by the addition of nanoclay in the matrix, notched Izod impact strengths decreased dramatically. However, with increase in the nanoclay content (5 wt%), the flexural and tensile properties decreased considerably. The mechanical properties of composites filled with paulownia are generally greater than canola stalk composites, due to the higher aspect ratio. The thickness swelling and water absorption of the composites significantly decreased with the increase in nanoclay loading. Except tensile modulus, the differences between the type of fibrous materials and nanoclay contents had significant influence on physicomechanical properties. Morphologies of the composites were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and the results showed increased d‐spacing of clay layers indicating enhanced compatibility among PP, clay, and lignocellulosic material. TEM micrographs also confirmed that the composites containing 3 wt% nanoclay had uniform dispersion and distribution of clay layers in the polymer matrix. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
A novel spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of calcitonin in ampules through derivatization with fluorescamine
Authors: Koçdan Deniz , Basan Hasan
Published: December 2012

In this study, a simple, sensitive and selective spectroflourimetric method has been developed for the determination of salmon calcitonin (sCT) in ampules. The method is based on the reaction between sCT and fluorescamine at pH 8.5 in borate buffer, resulting in a highly fluorescent derivative. Fluorescence of derivatized sCT solutions was measured by setting the excitation and emission monochromators and slit widths to 390, 484 and 10 nm, respectively. Sevaral derivatization parameters were optimized. A calibration graph was constructed using standard solutions of the derivatized calcitonin in the range 0.5–6.0 µg/mL. Limit of detection and limit of quantification values were determined to be 0.124 and 0.372 µg/mL, respectively. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of sCT in commercially available ampules. High recovery values (101.0–102.0 %), and a low relative standard deviation (RSD %) value (5.3–5.4) proved the accuracy and precision of the proposed method. An isocratic reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method, as a reference, was also developed for the determination of sCT. A reversed‐phase Nucleosil® C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm i.d., 10 µm particle size, 120 Å pore size) was used and the detector was set at 210 nm. Statistical comparison of the results of the two methods showed clearly that there was no significant difference between them. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Curcumin combined with turmerones, essential oil components of turmeric, abolishes inflammation‐associated mouse colon carcinogenesis
Authors: Murakami Akira , Furukawa Ikuyo , Miyamoto Shingo , Tanaka Takuji , Ohigashi Hajime
Published: December 2012

Curcumin (CUR), a yellow pigment in turmeric, has marked potential for preventing colon cancer. We recently reported that ar‐turmerone (ATM) suppressed nitric oxide (NO) generation in macrophages. In the present study, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which ATM attenuates NO generation and examined the anti‐carcinogenesis activity of turmerones (TUR, a mixture of 5 sesquiterpenes including ATM). Both CUR and ATM inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced expression of inducible forms of both nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase (iNOS and COX‐2, respectively). A chase experiment using actinomycin D revealed that ATM accelerated the decay of iNOS and COX‐2 mRNA, suggesting a post‐transcriptional mechanism. ATM prevented LPS‐induced translocation of HuR, an AU‐rich element‐binding protein that determines mRNA stability of certain inflammatory genes. In a colitis model, oral administration of TUR significantly suppressed 2% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced shortening of the large bowel by 52–58%. We also evaluated the chemopreventive effects of oral feeding of TUR, CUR, and their combinations using a model of dimethylhydradine‐initiated and DSS‐promoted mouse colon carcinogenesis. At the low dose, TUR markedly suppressed adenoma multiplicity by 73%, while CUR at both doses suppressed adenocarcinoma multiplicity by 63–69%. Interestingly, the combination of CUR and TUR at both low and high doses abolished tumor formation. Collectively, our results led to our hypothesis that TUR is a novel candidate for colon cancer prevention. Furthermore, we consider that its use in combination with CUR may become a powerful method for prevention of inflammation‐associated colon carcinogenesis. © 2012 BioFactors, 2013
Homogenization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms visualized by freeze‐substitution electron microscopy
Authors: Guélon T. , Hunter R.C. , Mathias J.D. , Deffuant G.
Published: December 2012

A knowledge of the mechanical properties of bacterial biofilms is required to more fully understand the processes of biofilm formation such as initial adhesion or detachment. The main contribution of this article is to demonstrate the use of homogenization techniques to compute mechanical parameters of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms. For this purpose, homogenization techniques are used to analyze freeze substitution electron micrographs of the biofilm cross‐sections. The concept of a representative volume element and the study about his representativeness allows us to determine the optimal size in order to analyze these biofilm images. Results demonstrate significant heterogeneities with respect to stiffness and these can be explained by varying cell density distribution throughout the bacterial biofilms. These stiffness variations lead to different mechanical properties along the height of the biofilm. Moreover, a numerical shear stress test shows the impact of these heterogeneities on the detachment process. Several modes of detachment are highlighted according to the local strain energy in the different parts of the biofilm. Knowing where, and how, a biofilm may detach will allow better prediction of accumulation and biomass detachment. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1405–1418. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Targeting hyperactivation of the AKT survival pathway to overcome therapy resistance of melanoma brain metastases
Authors: Niessner Heike , Forschner Andrea , Klumpp Bernhard , Honegger Jürgen B. , Witte Maria , Bornemann Antje , Dummer Reinhard , Adam Annemarie , Bauer Jürgen , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Flaherty Keith , Sinnberg Tobias , Beck Daniela , Leiter Ulrike , Mauch Cornelia , Roesch Alexander , Weide Benjamin , Eigentler Thomas , Schadendorf Dirk , Garbe Claus , Kulms Dagmar , Quintanilla‐Martinez Leticia , Meier Friedegund
Published: December 2012

Brain metastases are the most common cause of death in patients with metastatic melanoma, and the RAF‐MEK‐ERK and PI3K‐AKT signaling pathways are key players in melanoma progression and drug resistance. The BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib significantly improved overall survival. However, brain metastases still limit the effectiveness of this therapy. In a series of patients, we observed that treatment with vemurafenib resulted in substantial regression of extracerebral metastases, but brain metastases developed. This study aimed to identify factors that contribute to treatment resistance in brain metastases. Matched brain and extracerebral metastases from melanoma patients had identical ERK, p‐ERK, and AKT immunohistochemistry staining patterns, but there was hyperactivation of AKT (p‐AKT) and loss of PTEN expression in the brain metastases. Mutation analysis revealed no differences in BRAF, NRAS, or KIT mutation status in matched brain and extracerebral metastases. In contrast, AKT, p‐AKT, and PTEN expression was identical in monolayer cultures derived from melanoma brain and extracerebral metastases. Furthermore, melanoma cells stimulated by astrocyte‐conditioned medium showed higher AKT activation and invasiveness than melanoma cells stimulated by fibroblast‐conditioned medium. Inhibition of PI3K‐AKT signaling resensitized melanoma cells isolated from a vemurafenib‐resistant brain metastasis to vemurafenib. Brain‐derived factors appear to induce hyperactivation of the AKT survival pathway and to promote the survival and drug resistance of melanoma cells in the brain. Thus, inhibition of PI3K‐AKT signaling shows potential for enhancing and/or prolonging the antitumor effect of BRAF inhibitors or other anticancer agents in melanoma brain metastases.
Heterotypic Sam–Sam Association between Odin‐Sam1 and Arap3‐Sam: Binding Affinity and Structural Insights
Authors: Mercurio Flavia A. , Marasco Daniela , Pirone Luciano , Scognamiglio Pasqualina L. , Pedone Emilia M. , Pellecchia Maurizio , Leone Marilisa
Published: December 2012

Arap3 is a phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase effector protein that plays a role as GTPase activator (GAP) for Arf6 and RhoA. Arap3 contains a sterile alpha motif (Sam) domain that has high sequence homology with the Sam domain of the EphA2‐receptor (EphA2‐Sam). Both Arap3‐Sam and EphA2‐Sam are able to associate with the Sam domain of the lipid phosphatase Ship2 (Ship2‐Sam). Recently, we reported a novel interaction between the first Sam domain of Odin (Odin‐Sam1), a protein belonging to the ANKS (ANKyrin repeat and Sam domain containing) family, and EphA2‐Sam. In our latest work, we applied NMR spectroscopy, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to characterize the association between Arap3‐Sam and Odin‐Sam1. We show that these two Sam domains interact with low micromolar affinity. Moreover, by means of molecular docking techniques, supported by NMR data, we demonstrate that Odin‐Sam1 and Arap3‐Sam might bind with a topology that is common to several Sam‐Sam complexes. The revealed structural details form the basis for the design of potential peptide antagonists that could be used as chemical tools to investigate functional aspects related to heterotypic Arap3‐Sam associations.
Gas‐Phase Hydrogenolysis of Glycerol Catalyzed by Cu/MOx Catalysts
Authors: Feng Y. , Yin H. , Shen L. , Wang A. , Shen Y. , Jiang T.
Published: December 2012

The catalytic activities of Cu/MOx (MOx = Al2O3, TiO2, and ZnO) catalysts in the gas‐phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol were studied at 180–300 °C under 0.1 MPa of H2. Cu/MOx (MOx = Al2O3, TiO2, and ZnO) catalysts were prepared by the incipient wetness impregnation method. After reduction, CuO species were converted to metallic copper (Cu0). Cu/Al2O3 catalysts with high acidity, high specific surface areas and small metallic copper size favored the formation of 1,2‐propanediol with a maximum selectivity of 87.9 % at complete conversion of glycerol and a low reaction temperature of 180 °C, and favored the formation of ethylene glycol and monohydric alcohols at high reaction temperature of 300 °C. Cu/TiO2 and Cu/ZnO catalysts exhibited high catalytic activity toward the formation of hydroxyacetone with a selectivity of approx. 90 % in a wide range of reaction temperature.
Game Changers of the C3 Value Chain: Gas, Coal, and Biotechnologies
Authors: Ding J. , Hua W.
Published: December 2012

While ethylene crackers in Middle East and North America are shifting to ethane feedstocks and the volume of propylene production is becoming less, the market share of on‐purpose propylene production technologies keeps on increasing. In Northeast Asia, due to the shortage of naphtha and natural gas, methanol‐to‐olefin and methanol‐to‐propylene technologies attract much attention. In addition, biochemical technologies are impinging the propylene downstream. Using starch, sugar, or biomass as raw materials, important industrial chemicals such as acrylic acid, butanol, and 1,3‐propanediol can be produced. Propylene glycol and epichlorohydrine can be manufactured using glycerine, the byproduct of biodiesel. All these factors are changing the traditional C3 value chain profoundly. The status of the game‐changing technologies related to the C3 value chain is presented. The relevant factors and the implications will be discussed.