bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of meat packaging materials and their environmental suitability assessment
Authors: Suput Danijela , Lazic Vera , Levic Ljubinko , Krkic Nevena , Tomovic Vladimir , Pezo Lato
Published: November 2012

After functional phase, packaging becomes waste that is recycled or disposed
of in landfills. Recently, numerus packages have been developed for assessing
the packaging risk on the environment. We applied Gabi 4 Education software
on polymer product packaging for meat products. The objective of first part
of the paper was characterization of materials used for meat and meat
products packaging in terms of mechanical and barrier properties. Results
show that tested materials are able to keep protective atmosphere and
contribute to the quality and sustainability of the product. Air permeability
was 3.60 and 26.60 ml/m224h, and water vapor was 6.90 and 9.50 ml/m224h,
respectively, for foils 1 and 2, as a result of different film composition.
In second part, based on real data, Gabi 4 Education software is applied. The
obtained results showed that organic compounds emissions have the highest
impact on human health and the most damaging environmental impact observed
was the emission of CO2.
Was Dodd-Frank Justified in Exempting Small Firms from Section 404b Compliance?
Authors: Holder Anthony D. , Karim Khondkar E. , Robin Ashok
Published: November 2012

SYNOPSIS:

In recognition of the high cost of compliance with its Section 404b—Auditor Certification of Internal Controls—the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX) provided temporary exemption to small firms (called non-accelerated filers, typically with market capitalization of less than $75 million). This temporary exemption was later made permanent by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (2010). Our study estimates the opportunity cost of this exemption, that is, the reporting quality gains that would have been achieved by non-accelerated filers if exemption were not granted. We do so by using a “difference in differences approach”: We compare the effect of SOX on the reporting quality of accelerated filers with the effect of SOX on non-accelerated filers (identifying the two groups using market capitalization thresholds). We measure reporting quality principally by using earnings management and accrual quality measures. We detect a significant deterioration in reporting quality for non-accelerated filers but not for accelerated filers. The result is invariant to whether we compare non-accelerated filers with all accelerated filers or only with small accelerated filers. Our findings suggest a significant opportunity cost for the exemption. Although the consideration of the cost of Section 404b compliance is outside the scope of our study, our result concerning the opportunity cost suggests that it may have been premature to grant permanent exemption to the non-accelerated filers. This result is especially important considering current discussions to grant Section 404b exemption to even larger firms (up to a market capitalization of $500 million).
Nonviral-Mediated Hepatic Expression of IGF-I Increases Treg Levels and Suppresses Autoimmune Diabetes in Mice
Authors: Anguela Xavier M. , Tafuro Sabrina , Roca Carles , Callejas David , Agudo Judith , Obach Mercè , Ribera Albert , Ruzo Albert , Mann Christopher J. , Casellas Alba , Bosch Fatima
Published: November 2012

In type 1 diabetes, loss of tolerance to β-cell antigens results in T-cell–dependent autoimmune destruction of β cells. The abrogation of autoreactive T-cell responses is a prerequisite to achieve long-lasting correction of the disease. The liver has unique immunomodulatory properties and hepatic gene transfer results in tolerance induction and suppression of autoimmune diseases, in part by regulatory T-cell (Treg) activation. Hence, the liver could be manipulated to treat or prevent diabetes onset through expression of key genes. IGF-I may be an immunomodulatory candidate because it prevents autoimmune diabetes when expressed in β cells or subcutaneously injected. Here, we demonstrate that transient, plasmid-derived IGF-I expression in mouse liver suppressed autoimmune diabetes progression. Suppression was associated with decreased islet inflammation and β-cell apoptosis, increased β-cell replication, and normalized β-cell mass. Permanent protection depended on exogenous IGF-I expression in liver nonparenchymal cells and was associated with increased percentage of intrapancreatic Tregs. Importantly, Treg depletion completely abolished IGF-I-mediated protection confirming the therapeutic potential of these cells in autoimmune diabetes. This study demonstrates that a nonviral gene therapy combining the immunological properties of the liver and IGF-I could be beneficial in the treatment of the disease.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta: A Conservative and Progressive Adhesive Treatment Concept
Authors: Ardu S , Duc O , Krejci I , Perroud R
Published: November 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to present a case report of a patient affected by amelogenesis imperfecta showing a possible minimal and conservative adhesive treatment approach.

Clinical Procedure

A treatment philosophy of amelogenesis imperfecta is illustrated by means of a case report of a 14-year-old boy who consulted us for a full mouth rehabilitation.

Discussion

This clinical report describes step by step how to manage a case of amelogenesis imperfecta from childhood over time.

Significance

This kind of minimally invasive, progressive approach allows the conservation of maximum tooth substance together with an acceptable esthetic outcome.
Clinical Outcome and Gait Analysis of Ankle Arthrodesis
Authors: Fuentes-Sanz Adela , Moya-Angeler Joaquin , López-Oliva Felipe , Forriol Francisco
Published: November 2012

Background: The purpose of our study was to describe and analyze the functional outcomes of mid-term followup patients with ankle arthrodesis. Methods: Twenty patients who had an isolated ankle arthrodesis were followed for a mean of 3 years after surgery. We performed physical and functional examination, radiographic examination and CT scan. Each completed standardized, self-reported outcome questionnaires SF-36, AOFAS and Mazur scores. All subjects were evaluated with a kinetic and kinematic gait analysis and a plantar pressure study. Results: Only one patient used a cane and seven patients required an insole to walk. We observed no relation between the scores obtained. Most of the patients showed good functional results and poor life quality scores. The joints that were significantly more degenerated were the Chopart and the subtalar joints, which were affected in 16 patients in the fused limb. The kinematic parameters showed compensatory motion in the neighboring joints and the kinetic parameters studied were similar in the arthrodesis limb and the control limb. There was no significant difference between the arthrodesis limb and the contralateral limb for plantar pressures. Conclusion: Although ankle arthrodesis will help to relieve pain and to improve overall function, it is considered to be a salvage procedure that causes persistent alterations in gait, with the possible development of symptomatic osteoarthritis in the other joints of the foot. Patients and treating physicians should also expect overall pain and functional limitations to increase over time.

Level of Evidence: IV, Case Series
Monitoring of Systemic Inflammatory Response in Diabetic Patients with Deep Foot Infection Treated with Negative Pressure Wound Therapy
Authors: Dzieciuchowicz Łukasz , Kruszyna Łukasz , Krasiński Zbigniew , Espinosa Gaudencio
Published: November 2012

Background: The purpose of this study was to establish the safety of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in the treatment of acutely debrided, deep diabetic foot infections (DDFI) and to determine the value of inflammatory markers in monitoring of treatment of these infections with negative pressure wound therapy. Methods: A group of ten patients with DDFI treated by radical surgical debridement and simultaneous NPWT was prospectively studied. During the debridement, a deep tissue sample was obtained and sent for microbiological testing. The patients were followed clinically for 10 days and NPWT dressings were changed every 2 to 3 days or sooner when indicated. The peripheral blood samples were obtained before the radical debridement and 3 and 10 days afterwards and concentrations of white blood cell, neutrophils, lymphocytes and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured. The changes in concentration of inflammatory markers were analyzed with a Friedman test. Results: In all but one patient the presence of DDFI was confirmed by the culture results. At baseline, the elevated WBC and neutrophil concentrations were observed only in half of the patients while the CRP concentration was elevated in nine patients. During followup, all patients showed a favorable clinical evolution and statistically significant decrease of WBC, neutrophils and CRP ( p < 0.001). There were not statistically significant changes in lymphocyte count. Conclusion: NPWT can be safely applied in acutely debrided DDFI. CRP seems to be the most adequate parameter for both diagnosis and monitoring of treatment of DDFI.

Level of Evidence: IV, Case Series
Relationship between Mechanical Ankle Joint Laxity and Subjective Function
Authors: Hubbard-Turner Tricia
Published: November 2012

Background: An increase in ankle joint laxity has been reported in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). However, it is not known if this increase in joint laxity is responsible for the subjective level of functional deficits also reported in these patients. Methods: One hundred twenty subjects with unilateral CAI (55 males, 65 females; age, 20.6 ± 1.5 years; mass, 74.5 ± 13.6 kg; height, 174.2 ± 9.7 cm) participated in the study. Mechanical joint stability was measured with an instrumented ankle arthrometer. The arthrometer measured ankle joint motion for anterior/posterior translation and inversion/eversion angular displacement. Subjective level of function was assessed with the foot and ankle disability index (FADI) and foot and ankle disability index sport (FADIS). Bivariate correlations using Pearson Product Moments were made between all dependent variables taken on the unstable ankles. Results: The strongest relationship was between anterior laxity and the FADIS ( r = −0.88, p < 0.0001). As scores on the FADIS decreased, anterior laxity increased. Similar significant results were reported for anterior laxity and the FADI ( r = −0.65, p = 0.013), as well as inversion laxity and the FADI ( r = −0.53, p = 0.017) and FADIS ( r = −0.45, p = 0.013). Conclusion: These data demonstrate that there appears to be a relationship between anterior and inversion ankle laxity and subjective function in those with CAI. Although numerous insufficiencies develop after an ankle sprain, increased laxity may cause some of the subjective functional deficits reported in those with CAI. Clinical Relevance: Strategies to prevent increased laxity following ankle sprain may improve the patient's subjective level of function.
Intraosseous and Extraosseous Arterial Anatomy of the Adult Navicular
Authors: McKeon Kathleen E. , McCormick Jeremy J. , Johnson Jeffrey E. , Klein Sandra E.
Published: November 2012

Background: The etiology of navicular stress fractures is a topic of interest due to the implications in high-level athletes. Previous studies suggest an avascular zone in the central one-third of the bone as a potential causative factor. This study investigated the extraosseous and intraosseous arterial anatomy of the adult navicular. Methods: Sixty legs from 30 cadavers were amputated below the knee. India Ink and Wards Blue Latex were injected into the anterior tibial, peroneal, and posterior tibial arteries. The specimens were frozen, thawed to room temperature, and the skin was sharply dissected away. The soft tissues were chemically debrided, leaving the bones, interosseous ligaments, and casts of the extraosseous blood vessels. The vascular supply to the navicular was elucidated in 55 specimens. The navicular was then cleared using a modified Spälteholz technique; the intraosseous vascularity was reviewed in 54 specimens. Results: Medial tarsal branches of the dorsalis pedis consistently supplied the dorsal navicular (96.4%). Lateral tarsal branches of varying size and distribution patterns also supplied the dorsal navicular. The medial plantar bone received small branches from the superficial branch of the medial plantar artery. Thirty of 54 specimens had a diffuse intraosseous vascular supply throughout the bone. Only six (11.8%) specimens had an avascular zone in the central third of the navicular extending to the dorsal cortex. Conclusion: The dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial arteries branch to supply blood flow to the navicular. In the majority of these specimens the navicular had a dense intraosseous vascular supply throughout it. Clinical Relevance: If diminished vascular supply is a contributing factor to navicular stress fracture, our results suggest that a relatively small proportion of individuals is prone to their development. Biomechanical or other clinical factors may play a more prominent role in the development of navicular stress fractures than previously suspected.
Three-Dimensional Kinematics of an Unconstrained Ankle Arthroplasty: A Preliminary In Vivo Videofluoroscopic Feasibility Study
Authors: List Renate , Foresti Mauro , Gerber Hans , Goldhahn Jörg , Rippstein Pascal , Stüssi Edgar
Published: November 2012

Background: Understanding the functionality of total ankle arthroplasties (TAA) requires thorough knowledge of the kinematics during activities of daily life. Videofluoroscopy enables the in vivo measurement of the 3D kinematics of implant components more accurately than by means of skin marker tracking. The aim of the present preliminary study was to quantify the 3D kinematics of a TAA during the stance phase of level and slope walking using single plane videofluoroscopy. Methods: The experimental set up consisted of a videofluoroscopy system (BV Pulsera, Philips Medical Systems, Switzerland, 25 Hz, 1 ms shutter time) integrated in a walkway, allowing the assessment of free level gait, uphill, downhill and cross-slope walking. 2D/3D registration was performed using the CAD models of the TAA. In a preliminary feasibility study, the presented method was applied on four patients with successful unilateral TAA (Mobility™ Total Ankle, DePuy) with good outcomes. Results: Isolated 3D TAA kinematics was quantified with a rotational and translational error of 0.2 degrees and 0.4 mm in plane and 1.3 degrees and 2.1 mm out of plane. In the feasibility study it was found that only minor limitations occurred in sagittal plane motion. Any restrictions were caused by a limitation in dorsiflexion, whereas plantarflexion was for all gait conditions sufficiently provided. Transverse and frontal plane rotation was marginal, the main rotation occurred around the talar construction axis itself. Conclusion: The presented method enabled accurate estimation of the 3D TAA kinematics in vivo, without being limited by skin movement artifacts and isolated from subtalar motion. Since the available amount of dorsiflexion is the crucial factor to allow unrestrictive gait, walking uphill is an appropriate motion task to challenge and evaluate the performance of the TAA. Clinical Relevance: The presented method has the potential to identify specific kinematic patterns and thereby help clinicians and implant developers to evaluate current designs and future design modifications.
Patterns in neurosurgical adverse events: cerebrospinal fluid shunt surgery
Authors: Wong Judith M. , Ziewacz John E. , Ho Allen L. , Panchmatia Jaykar R. , Bader Angela M. , Garton Hugh J. , Laws Edward R. , Gawande Atul A.
Published: November 2012

Object

As part of a project to devise evidence-based safety interventions for specialty surgery, the authors sought to review current evidence in CSF shunt surgery concerning the frequency of adverse events in practice, their patterns, and the state of knowledge regarding methods for their reduction. This review may also inform future and ongoing efforts for the advancement of neurosurgical quality.

Methods

The authors performed a PubMed search using search terms “cerebral shunt,” “cerebrospinal fluid shunt,” “CSF shunt,” “ventriculoperitoneal shunt,” “cerebral shunt AND complications,” “cerebrospinal fluid shunt AND complications,” “CSF shunt AND complications,” and “ventriculoperitoneal shunt AND complications.” Only papers that specifically discussed the relevant complication rates were included. Papers were chosen to be included to maximize the range of rates of occurrence for the adverse events reported.

Results

In this review of the neurosurgery literature, the reported rate of mechanical malfunction ranged from 8% to 64%. The use of programmable valves has increased but remains of unproven benefit even in randomized trials. Infection was the second most common complication, with the rate ranging from 3% to 12% of shunt operations. A meta-analysis that included 17 randomized controlled trials of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis demonstrated a decrease in shunt infection by half (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.36–0.73). Similarly, use of detailed protocols including perioperative antibiotics, skin preparation, and limitation of OR personnel and operative time, among other steps, were shown in uncontrolled studies to decrease shunt infection by more than half.

Other adverse events included intraabdominal complications, with a reported incidence of 1% to 24%, intracerebral hemorrhage, reported to occur in 4% of cases, and perioperative epilepsy, with a reported association with shunt procedures ranging from 20% to 32%. Potential management strategies are reported but are largely without formal evaluation.

Conclusions

Surgery for CSF shunt placement or revision is associated with a high complication risk due primarily to mechanical issues and infection. Concerted efforts aimed at large-scale monitoring of neurosurgical complications and consistent quality improvement within these highlighted realms may significantly improve patient outcomes.
On the value of routine prothrombin time screening in elective neurosurgical procedures
Authors: Dützmann Stephan , Geßler Florian , Marquardt Gerhard , Seifert Volker , Senft Christian
Published: November 2012

Object

The authors performed a study to evaluate whether preoperative assessment of prothrombin time (PT) is mandatory in patients undergoing routinely planned neurosurgical procedures.

Methods

The charts of all patients admitted to general wards of the authors' department for routinely planned surgery (excluding trauma and ICU patients) between 2006 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. The authors assessed preoperative PT and the clinical courses of all patients, with special consideration for patients receiving coagulation factor substitution. All cases involving hemorrhagic complications were analyzed in detail with regard to pre- and postoperative PT abnormalities. Prothrombin time was expressed as the international normalized ratio, and values greater than 1.28 were regarded as elevated.

Results

Clinical courses and PT values of 4310 patients were reviewed. Of these, 33 patients (0.7%) suffered hemorrhagic complications requiring repeat surgery. Thirty-one patients (94%) had a normal PT before the initial operation, while 2 patients had slightly elevated PT values of 1.33 and 1.65, which were anticipated based on the patient's history. In the latter 2 cases, surgery was performed without prior correction of PT. Preoperatively, PT was elevated in 78 patients (1.8%). In 73 (93.6%) of the 78 patients, the PT elevation was expected and explained by each patient's medical history. In only 5 (0.1%) of 4310 patients did we find an unexpected PT elevation (mean 1.53, range 1.37–1.74). All 5 patients underwent surgery without complications, while 2 had received coagulation factor substitution preoperatively, as requested by the surgeon, because of an estimated risk of bleeding complications. None of the 5 patients received coagulation factor substitution postoperatively, and later detailed laboratory studies ruled out single coagulation factor deficiencies. There was no statistically significant association between preoperatively elevated PT levels and the occurrence of hemorrhagic complications (p = 0.12). Before the second procedure but not before the initial operation, 4 (12%) of the 33 patients had elevated PT.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the value of preoperative PT testing is limited in patients in whom a normal history can be ascertained. Close postoperative PT control is necessary in every neurosurgical patient, and better tests need to be developed to identify patients who are prone to hemorrhagic complications.
Infection following operations on the central nervous system: deconstructing the myth of the sterile field
Authors: Walcott Brian P. , Redjal Navid , Coumans Jean-Valery C. E.
Published: November 2012

Neurosurgical patients are at a high risk for infectious sequelae following operations. For neurosurgery in particular, the risk of surgical site infection has a unique implication given the proximity of the CSF and the CNS. Patient factors contribute to some degree; for example, cancer and trauma are often associated with impaired nutritional status, known risk factors for infection. Additionally, care-based factors for infection must also be considered, such as the length of surgery, the administration of steroids, and tissue devascularization (such as a craniotomy bone flap). When postoperative infection does occur, attention is commonly focused on potential lapses in surgical “sterility.” Evidence suggests that the surgical field is not free of microorganisms. The authors propose a paradigm shift in the nomenclature of the surgical field from “sterile” to “clean.” Continued efforts aimed at optimizing immune capacity and host defenses to combat potential infection are warranted.
Surgical debriefing: a reliable roadmap to completing the patient safety cycle
Authors: Zuckerman Scott L. , France Daniel J. , Green Cain , Leming-Lee Susie , Anders Shilo , Mocco J
Published: November 2012

Morbidity and mortality due to preventable medical errors are a disastrous reality in medicine. Debriefing, a process that allows individuals to discuss team performance in a constructive, supportive environment, has been linked to improved performance in various medical and surgical fields, including improvements in specific procedures, teamwork and communication, and error identification. However, the neurosurgical literature on this topic is limited. The authors review the debriefing literature in the field of medicine, with a specific emphasis on the operating room, and they report their own institutional experience with a debriefing module, from invention to pilot implementation, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The authors share the challenges and lessons learned from their quality improvement project. The field of neurosurgery would undoubtedly benefit from embracing debriefing, as its potential has been established in other medical specialties and can serve as a valuable role in immediately learning from mistakes. The authors hope that their colleagues can learn from this experience and improve their own.
“Team time-out” and surgical safety—experiences in 12,390 neurosurgical patients
Authors: Oszvald Ági , Vatter Hartmut , Byhahn Christian , Seifert Volker , Güresir Erdem
Published: November 2012

Object

Quality and safety are basic concerns in any medical practice. Especially in daily surgical practice, with increasing turnover and shortened procedure times, attention to these topics needs to be assured. Starting in 2007, the authors used a perioperative checklist in all elective procedures and extended the checklist in January 2011 according to the so-called team time-out principles, with additional assessment of patient identity and the planned surgical procedure performed immediately before skin incision, including the emergency cases.

Methods

The advanced perioperative checklist includes parts for patient identification, preoperative assessments, team time-out, postoperative treatment, and imaging controls. All parts are signed by the responsible physician except for the team time-out, which is performed and signed by the theater nurse on behalf of the surgeon immediately before skin incision.

Results

Between January 2007 and December 2010, 1 wrong-sided bur hole in an emergency case and 1 wrong-sided lumbar approach in an elective case (of 8795 surgical procedures) occurred in the authors' department. Using the advanced perioperative checklist including the team time-out principles, no error occurred in 3595 surgical procedures (January 2011–June 2012). In the authors' department all team members appreciate the chance to focus on the patient, the surgical procedure, and expected difficulties. The number of incomplete checklists and of patients not being transferred into the operating room was lowered significantly (p = 0.002) after implementing the advanced perioperative checklist.

Conclusions

In the authors' daily experience, the advanced perioperative checklist developed according to the team time-out principles improves preoperative workup and the focus of the entire team. The focus is drawn to the procedure, expected difficulties of the surgery, and special needs in the treatment of the particular patient. Especially in emergency situations, the team time-out synchronizes the involved team members and helps to improve patient safety.
Creating a culture of safety within operative neurosurgery: the design and implementation of a perioperative safety video
Authors: Lau Catherine Y. , Greysen S. Ryan , Mistry Rita I. , Han Seunggu J. , Mummaneni Praveen V. , Berger Mitchel S.
Published: November 2012

Object

Surgical and medical errors result from failures in communication and handoffs as well as lack of standardization in clinical protocols and safety practices. Checklists, simulation training, and teamwork training have been shown to decrease adverse patient events and increase the safety culture of surgical teams. The goal of this project was to simplify and standardize perioperative patient safety practices and team communication processes within operative neurosurgery through the creation of an educational safety video targeted at a neurosurgical provider audience.

Methods

A multidisciplinary group consisting of neurosurgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, neuromonitoring specialists, quality champions, and a professional video production company met over several months in an iterative process to 1) determine the overall objectives of the video, 2) decide on the content and format of the video, 3) modify the proposed content and format based on stakeholder feedback, and 4) record the video and complete final revisions during postproduction.

Results

The video was launched within the authors' institution in July 2012 in conjunction with ongoing research projects to study the effects of the video on 1) multidisciplinary providers' knowledge of perioperative safety practices, 2) provider safety attitudes and safety culture in the operating room, and 3) provider behavior in performing predetermined elements of the preoperative timeout and postoperative debrief.

Conclusions

The neurosurgical perioperative safety video can serve as a national model for how quality champions can drive changes in safety culture and provider behavior among multidisciplinary perioperative patient care teams. Ongoing research is being performed to assess the impact of the video on provider knowledge, behavior, and safety attitudes and culture.
Surgical briefings, checklists, and the creation of an environment of safety in the neurosurgical intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging suite
Authors: Rahmathulla Gazanfar , Recinos Pablo F. , Traul David E. , Avitsian Rafi , Yunak Marisa , Harper Nicole T. , Barnett Gene H. , Recinos Violette Renard
Published: November 2012

Technological advances have made it possible to seamlessly integrate modern neuroimaging into the neurosurgical operative environment. This integration has introduced many new applications improving surgical treatments. One major addition to the neurosurgical armamentarium is intraoperative navigation and MRI, enabling real-time use during surgery. In the 1970s, the American College of Radiology issued safety guidelines for diagnostic MRI facilities. Until now, however, no such guidelines existed for the MRI-integrated operating room, which is a high-risk zone requiring standardized protocols to ensure the safety of both the patient and the operating room staff. The forces associated with the strong 1.5- and 3.0-T magnets used for MRI are potent and hazardous, creating distinct concerns regarding safety, infection control, and image interpretation. Authors of this paper provide an overview of the intraoperative MRI operating room, safety considerations, and a series of checklists and protocols for maintaining safety in this zero tolerance environment.
Optimization of MIMO Systems Capacity Using Large Random Matrix Methods
Authors: Dupuy Florian , Loubaton Philippe
Published: November 2012

This paper provides a comprehensive introduction of large random matrix methods for input covariance matrix optimization of mutual information of MIMO systems. It is first recalled informally how large system approximations of mutual information can be derived. Then, the optimization of the approximations is discussed, and important methodological points that are not necessarily covered by the existing literature are addressed, including the strict concavity of the approximation, the structure of the argument of its maximum, the accuracy of the large system approach with regard to the number of antennas, or the justification of iterative water-filling optimization algorithms. While the existing papers have developed methods adapted to a specific model, this contribution tries to provide a unified view of the large system approximation approach.
Bioavailability and Brain-Targeting of Geniposide in Gardenia-Borneol Co-Compound by Different Administration Routes in Mice
Authors: Lu Yang , Du Shouying , Bai Jie , Li Pengyue , Wen Ran , Zhao Xuejiao
Published: November 2012

Both geniposide (Ge) and borneol (Bo) are bioactive substances derived from traditional Chinese medicine. Injections containing co-compound of Gardenia-Borneol are widely used for stroke treatment in China, such as “Xingnaojing” multi-component injection. As more and more adverse reactions (especially drug allergy) were reported, it is urgent to find more effective and safer routes of administration for such kinds of medicines. In this paper, bioavailabilities and brain-target effects of geniposide in Gardenia-Borneol co-compound through different administration routes in mice were investigated. Geniposide concentrations in plasma and in brain of mice were determined by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The pharmacokinetics parameters of intranasal (i.n.) and intragastric (i.g.) administration were compared with intravenous (i.v.) administration. The bioavailabilities of Ge were 85.38% and 28.76% for i.n. and i.g. while Tmax were 1 min and 30 min. Cmax were 21.881 ± 5.398, 1.914 ± 0.327 and 42.410 ± 6.268 μg/mL for i.n., i.g. and i.v., respectively. The AUC of Ge in brain were 32413.6 ± 4573.9, 6440.1 ± 863.7 and 37270.5 ± 4160.6 ng/g·min for i.n., i.g. and i.v., respectively. The drug target indexes (DTI) were 1.02 and 0.60 for i.n. and i.g. The results demonstrated that geniposide could be absorbed promptly and thoroughly by i.n. administration in mice and basically transported into the brain though blood vessel passways.
Natural Product Chemistry of Gorgonian Corals of the Family Plexauridae Distributed in the Indo-Pacific Ocean
Authors: Wang Li-Hsueh , Sheu Jyh-Horng , Kao Shih-Yao , Su Jui-Hsin , Chen Yung-Husan , Chen Yu-Hsin , Su Yin-Di , Chang Yu-Chia , Fang Lee-Shing , Wang Wei-Hsien , Wu Yang-Chang , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: November 2012

The structures, names, bioactivities and references of 105 natural products obtained from gorgonian corals belonging to the family Plexauridae with an Indo-Pacific distribution are described in this review. All compounds mentioned in this review were obtained from gorgonian corals belonging to the genera Astrogorgia, Bebryce, Echinomuricea, Euplexaura and Menella.
Purification and Identification of Antioxidant Peptides from Enzymatic Hydrolysates of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Frame Protein
Authors: Fan Jian , He Jintang , Zhuang Yongliang , Sun Liping
Published: November 2012

Tilapia frame protein was hydrolyzed by different proteases, including properase E, pepsin, trypsin, flavourzyme, neutrase, gc106 and papain, to obtain antioxidant peptides. The tilapia frame protein hydrolysate (TFPH) obtained by trypsin exhibited the highest degree of hydrolysis and antioxidant activity. Three series of peptides (TFPH1, TFPH 2 and TFPH 3) were obtained by ultrafiltration of TFPH through molecular weight cut-off membranes of 5, 3 and 1 kDa, respectively, and their IC50 values on scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, superoxide anion radical (•O2), hydrogen peroxides (H2O2) and hydroxyl radical (•OH) activities were determined and compared with glutathione (GSH). The results showed that TFPH1 had the highest antioxidant activity. TFPH1 was further purified using ion exchange chromatography, gel filtration chromatography, and reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Finally, two antioxidant peptides were identified and the amino acid sequences were identified as Asp-Cys-Gly-Tyr (456.12 Da) and Asn-Tyr-Asp-Glu-Tyr (702.26 Da), respectively. The IC50 values of two peptides on hydroxyl radical scavenging activity were 27.6 and 38.4 μg/mL, respectively.
In Vitro Antioxidant Effects of Aloe barbadensis Miller Extracts and the Potential Role of These Extracts as Antidiabetic and Antilipidemic Agents on Streptozotocin-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Model Rats
Authors: Moniruzzaman Mohammed , Rokeya Begum , Ahmed Sohel , Bhowmik Amrita , Khalil Md. Ibrahim , Gan Siew Hua
Published: November 2012

In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability and the ferric reducing power (FRAP) of Aloe vera were measured to determine the antioxidant activity of this species. The in vivo antidiabetic effects of the plant were also investigated using streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic model rats that were divided into five groups based on the treatment received: (1) water (WC); (2) glibenclamide; (3) concentrated gel extract (Gel-C); (4) ethanol (80%) gel extract (Gel-Et); and (5) ethanol (80%) skin extract of Aloe vera (Skin-Et). Skin-Et, which contained the highest level of total phenolics (62.37 ± 1.34 mggallic acid/kg) and flavonoids (20.83 ± 0.77 mg/kg), exhibited the highest scavenging activity (85.01 ± 0.52%) and the greatest reducing power (185.98 ± 0.41 µM), indicating that the skin contained the highest level of antioxidants. The oral consumption of Gel-Et for 4 weeks a caused significant reduction in the fasting serum glucose levels of the rats. The rats in the Gel-C-, Gel-Et- and Skin-Et-treated groups experienced a reduction in their total cholesterol levels by 11%, 17% and 25%, respectively and a reduction in their LDL cholesterol levels by 45%, 3% and 69%, respectively. The in vivo experimental antioxidant parameter MDA is strongly correlated with the in vitro antioxidant parameters of flavonoids and polyphenols, namely the DPPH and FRAP values (r = 0.94, 0.92, 0.93, 0.90), thus confirming the antioxidant potential of the Aloe vera extracts.
Hesperidin Prevents Retinal and Plasma Abnormalities in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Shi Xiupu , Liao Sha , Mi Huijuan , Guo Changrun , Qi Dongli , Li Fei , Zhang Chunfeng , Yang Zhonglin
Published: November 2012

Diabetic retinopathy is a complex disease that potentially involves increased production of advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) and elevated aldose reductase (AR) activity, which are related with oxidative stress and inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hesperidin on retinal and plasma abnormalities in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Hesperidin (100, 200 mg/kg daily) was given to diabetic rats for 12 weeks. The blood-retina breakdown (BRB) was determined after 2 weeks of treatment followed by the measurement of related physiological parameters with ELISA kits and immunohistochemistry staining at the end of the study. Elevated AR activity and blood glucose, increased retinal levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), ICAM-1, TNF-α, IL-1β and AGEs as well as reduced retina thickness were observed in diabetic rats. Hesperidin treatment signiﬁcantly suppressed BRB breakdown and increased retina thickness, reduced blood glucose, AR activity and retinal TNF-α, ICAM-1, VEGF, IL-1β and AGEs levels. Furthermore, treatment with hesperidin signiﬁcantly reduced plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and increased SOD activity in diabetic rats. These data demonstrated that hesperidin attenuates retina and plasma abnormalities via anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects, as well as the inhibitory effect on polyol pathway and AGEs accumulation.
Solvent-Free Synthesis, DNA-Topoisomerase II Activity and Molecular Docking Study of New Asymmetrically N,N'-Substituted Ureas
Authors: Esteves-Souza Andressa , Rodrigues-Santos Claudio , Del Cistia Catarina , Silva Daniel , Sant'Anna Carlos , Echevarria Aurea
Published: November 2012

A new series of asymmetrically N,N'-substituted ureas 20–25 was prepared using solvent free conditions, which is an eco-friendly methodology, starting with Schiff bases derived from cinnamaldehyde and p-substituted anilines, which are subsequently submitted to reduction reactions that afford the corresponding asymmetric secondary amines. All of the intermediates were prepared using solvent free reactions, which were compared to traditional methodologies. All of the reactions required a remarkably short amount of time and provided good yields when solvent free conditions were employed compared to other methodologies. The DNA-topoisomerase II-α (topo II-α) activity was evaluated in relaxation assays, which showed that all of the compounds inhibited the enzyme activity at 10 μM, except for urea 24. Furthermore, a molecular docking study indicated that the compounds 20–25 binding to the topo II-α are able to interact with the same binding site as the anticancer drug etoposide, suggesting that the ureas could inhibit the enzyme by the same mechanism of action observed for etoposide, which prevents re-ligation of the DNA strands.
Secondary Metabolites from Two Species of Tolpis and Their Biological Activities
Authors: Triana Jorge , López Mariana , Pérez Francisco , Rico Milagros , López Aroa , Estévez Francisco , Marrero María , Brouard Ignacio , León Francisco
Published: November 2012

Phytochemical research of two Tolpis species, T. proustii and T. lagopoda, led to the isolation of three new compounds: 30-chloro-3β-acetoxy-22α-hydroxyl-20(21)-taraxastene (1), 3β,22α-diacetoxy-30-ethoxy-20(21)-taraxastene (2) and 3β,28-dihydroxy-11α-hydroperoxy-12-ursene (3). The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by means of extensive IR, NMR, and MS data and by comparison of data reported in the literature. The in vitro antioxidant activities of the extracts were assessed by the DPPH and ABTS scavenging methods. The cytotoxicity of several known compounds and its derivatives was also assessed against human myeloid leukemia K-562 and K-562/ADR cell lines.
Antibacterial, Antifungal and Cytotoxic Isoquinoline Alkaloids from Litsea cubeba
Authors: Zhang Wei , Hu Jin-Feng , Lv Wen-Wen , Zhao Qing-Chun , Shi Guo-Bing
Published: November 2012

Five novel isoquinoline alkaloids (+)-N-(methoxylcarbonyl)-N-nordicentrin (1), (+)-N-(methoxylcarbonyl)-N-norpredicentrine (2), (+)-N-(methoxylcarbonyl)-N-norbulbodione (3), and (+)-N-(methoxylcarbonyl)-N-norisocorydione (4), and (+)-8-methoxyisolaurenine-N- oxide (5) were isolated, together with one known compound, (+)-N-(methoxylcarbonyl)- N-norglaucine (6), from a 70% EtOH extract of the barks of Litsea cubeba. Structural elucidation of all the compounds were performed by spectral methods such as 1D- and 2D-NMR, IR, UV, and HRESIMS. Alkaloids 1, 2 and 6 showed antimicrobial activity against the bacterium S. aureus and two fungi (A. alternata and C. nicotianae). Compounds 3,4 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against all of six tested tumor cell lines.
Action of Natural Products on P2 Receptors: A Reinvented Era for Drug Discovery
Authors: Faria Robson , Ferreira Leonardo , Bezerra Rômulo , Frutuoso Valber , Alves Luiz
Published: November 2012

Natural products contribute significantly to available drug therapies and have been a rich source for scientific investigation. In general, due to their low cost and traditional use in some cultures, they are an object of growing interest as alternatives to synthetic drugs. With several diseases such as cancer, and inflammatory and neuropathic diseases having been linked to the participation of purinergic (P2) receptors, there has been a flurry of investigations on ligands within natural products. Thirty-four different sources of these compounds have been found so far, that have shown either agonistic or antagonistic effects on P2 receptors. Of those, nine different plant sources demonstrated effects on P2X2, P2X3, P2X7, and possibly P2Y12 receptor subtypes. Microorganisms, which represent the largest group, with 26 different sources, showed effects on both receptor subtypes, ranging from P2X1 to P2X4 and P2X7, and P2Y1, P2Y2, P2Y4, and P2Y6. In addition, there were seventeen animal sources that affected P2X7 and P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptors. Natural products have provided some fascinating new mechanisms and sources to better understand the P2 receptor antagonism. Moreover, current investigations should clarify further pharmacological mechanisms in order to consider these products as potential new medicines.
Challenging Truths: Reflections on the Theological Dimension of Comparative Theology
Authors: Drew Rose
Published: November 2012

Given that comparative theology is aimed at learning from the insights of other religious traditions, the comparative theologian’s confessional perspective must be engaged and subject to possible transformation through the discovery of truth in those traditions. Despite Francis Clooney’s and James Fredericks’ attempts to distance comparative theology from the theology of religions, its truth-seeking dimension makes participation in the theology of religions unavoidable. Crucial to integrating what is learned, moreover, is a willingness to allow presuppositions about the other to be challenged and to make revisions if necessary. Keith Ward exhibits this willingness but, on this basis, distinguishes comparative theology from confessional theology, thus obscuring the legitimacy of revision from a committed religious standpoint. Where comparative theologians are willing and able to integrate all that is learned through their study of other traditions, comparative theology can be conceived of as both a confessional enterprise and a contribution to what Wilfred Cantwell Smith called ‘World Theology’—that is, the ongoing attempt to give intellectual expression to the faith of us all.
Energy Efficient Image/Video Data Transmission on Commercial Multi-Core Processors
Authors: Lee Sungju , Kim Heegon , Chung Yongwha , Park Daihee
Published: November 2012

In transmitting image/video data over Video Sensor Networks (VSNs), energy consumption must be minimized while maintaining high image/video quality. Although image/video compression is well known for its efficiency and usefulness in VSNs, the excessive costs associated with encoding computation and complexity still hinder its adoption for practical use. However, it is anticipated that high-performance handheld multi-core devices will be used as VSN processing nodes in the near future. In this paper, we propose a way to improve the energy efficiency of image and video compression with multi-core processors while maintaining the image/video quality. We improve the compression efficiency at the algorithmic level or derive the optimal parameters for the combination of a machine and compression based on the tradeoff between the energy consumption and the image/video quality. Based on experimental results, we confirm that the proposed approach can improve the energy efficiency of the straightforward approach by a factor of 2~5 without compromising image/video quality.
Contesting Views on a Protected Area Conservation and Development in Ethiopia
Authors: Debelo Asebe
Published: November 2012

This article discusses the contention between the state and local Guji people on issues of development and conservation of a Protected Area—Nech Sar National Park in southern Ethiopia. The park, which covers over 514 square kilometers, is a contested space between different actors, not only for its economic values, but it is also an arena of contestation over development and conservation perspectives. Since its inception as a national park in 1974, it has been administered with strict protectionist conservation approach, and later in 1990s, the ‘modernist’ development program was introduced in the form of ecotourism. On the contrary, the Guji people had strong determination for conservation embedded deep in their worldviews and beliefs. By tracing the genesis of the philosophies behind protected areas in Africa, particularly how it was adopted by the Ethiopian state and its implications, I argue that contrasts in environmental cosmologies between the western and indigenous perspectives have ultimately resulted in unsustainable resource management and also disrupted local livelihood conditions. Despite its existence as an independent country, Ethiopia also experienced similar conservation models that were imported to colonial Africa. In this article, I argue that conservation, particularly in the form of protected areas, is a form of hegemonic control over territories, people and their spaces (historical, economic, cultural and political spaces).
Advances and Future Challenges in Recombinant Adenoviral Vectored H5N1 Influenza Vaccines
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng
Published: November 2012

The emergence of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 has increased the potential for a new pandemic to occur. This event highlights the necessity for developing a new generation of influenza vaccines to counteract influenza disease. These vaccines must be manufactured for mass immunization of humans in a timely manner. Poultry should be included in this policy, since persistent infected flocks are the major source of avian influenza for human infections. Recombinant adenoviral vectored H5N1 vaccines are an attractive alternative to the currently licensed influenza vaccines. This class of vaccines induces a broadly protective immunity against antigenically distinct H5N1, can be manufactured rapidly, and may allow mass immunization of human and poultry. Recombinant adenoviral vectors derived from both human and non-human adenoviruses are currently being investigated and appear promising both in nonclinical and clinical studies. This review will highlight the current status of various adenoviral vectored H5N1 vaccines and will outline novel approaches for the future.