bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migraine eye: correlation between migraine and the retina
Authors: Udomwech Lunla , Sulastiwaty Rini , Siriarchawawat Doungkamol
Published: May 2024

Background

Activation of the trigeminal vascular system in migraine releases vasoactive neurotransmitters, causing abnormal vasoconstriction, which may affect the ocular system, leading to retinal damage. The purpose of our study was to determine whether there are differences in each retinal layer between migraine patients and healthy subjects.

Methods

A case-control study recruited 38 migraine patients and 38 age- and sex-matched controls. Optical coherence tomography was used to measure the thickness of the peripapillary and macular retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL and mRNFL), ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), and inner nuclear layer (INL).

Results

The mean ages of the migraine patients and controls were 36.29 ± 9.45 and 36.45 ± 9.27 years, respectively. Thirty-four patients (89.48%) in both groups were female. The mean disability score was 19.63 ± 20.44 (indicating severe disability). The superior-outer INL of migraine patients were thicker than controls. Thickness of the GCL at temporal-outer sector and mRNFL at the superior-outer sector of the headache-side eyes was reduced. However, the INL of the headache-side-eye showed negative correlation with the disability score. This is the first study having found thinning of the GCL and mRNFL of the headache-side eyes. The INL was also thickened in migraines but showed negative correlation with the disability score.

Conclusions

Increased INL thickness in migraine patients may result from inflammation. The more severe cases with a high disability score might suffered progressive retinal neuronal loss, resulting in thinner INL than less severe cases.
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF PROGRESSIVE SUPRANUCLEAR PALSY (PSP): A CASE REPORT
Authors: Sreenivas Vishnu , Sujan TK
Published: May 2024

Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare neurological condition that can cause problems with balance, movement, vision, speech and swallowing. This condition could be clinically compared to Kaphavrita Vyana Vata and Asthi-Majja gata Vata in Ayurveda based on signs and symptoms. A 73-year-old male patient visited the Geriatric OPD of Panchakarma Department, Government Ayurveda College Panchakarma Hospital, Poojappura, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, with complaints of balance and mobility problems, including frequent falls, changes in behaviour like irritability, inability to control eye and upward eyelid movements along with slowness of thought and some memory problems. The patient was advised for IP admission. He was diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) from MRI-Brain. From an Ayurvedic perspective, this condition could be considered Kaphavrita Vyana Vata and Asthi-Majja gata Vata based on signs and symptoms. Considering all the factors, the treatment principles of Avarana Vata and Asthi-Majja gata Vata were followed in this case. The assessment criteria were based on the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale (PSPRS) and the WHO Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOLS). The case report shows that Ayurvedic treatment effectively reduces the signs and symptoms of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) in the early stage. No adverse effect was found during the treatment. The assessment of the disease by the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale (PSPRS) showed improvement by changing the total score from 20 to 9 before and after treatment. The assessment with the World Health Organisation Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOLS) showed that the patient's quality of life improved from 45% to 64.6% before and after treatment.
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS (PITTAJA GRAHANI): A CASE REPORT
Authors: Jalawadi Anand Revanasiddappa , B Vasantha , Totad Muttappa , Hadapad Harish M , Jones Merlyn T
Published: May 2024

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterised by inflammation of the mucosa and submucosa in the colon, relapsing and remitting. It has a reported incidence of 9-20 cases per 100,000 people annually and can significantly impact both mental and physical health, causing distress to patients. Here is a case report of a 45-year-old female who presented with symptoms including increased frequency of defecation (7 times/day) with mucus discharge, bloody stool, abdominal pain, reduced appetite, general debility, weight loss (>5 kg) and mental distress persisting for one year. She was found to be anaemic (Hb 6.8 gm%), and her pulse rate was 105 bpm. The colonoscopy report showed multiple superficial ulcers with erythematous mucosa, and a biopsy confirmed chronic active colitis. This case was diagnosed as Pittaja Grahani with Pandu (anaemia). The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic management in treating ulcerative colitis (Pittaja Grahani). Therapeutic measures included Ayurvedic oral medications and procedures such as abhyanga (oil massage), parisheka (sudation), takradhara, takra basti (buttermilk enema), pathyahara and yoga. Clinical parameters were assessed on the 1st, 12th and 45th day using the Truelove and Witts severity index scale for Ulcerative Colitis and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depression severity score. Improvements were observed in the frequency of defecation, bloody stool, pulse rate, general debility, and appetite throughout treatment. The results indicate marked alleviation of Ulcerative colitis symptoms with Ayurvedic management, suggesting its potential as a practical therapeutic approach in managing this condition.
DOCUMENTATION OF CASE REPORT ON CLINICAL SAFETY CONCERNS OF AYURVEDIC POLY HERBO-MINERAL DRUGS
Authors: Doddamani Shashidhar H , BM Bhavya , MN Shubhashree , Giri Sanjay Kumar
Published: May 2024

Heavy metals in Ayurvedic formulations have been used for centuries with claimed efficacy and safety. In the past few decades, although Ayurveda has gained popularity in the health care system, it has also been under the scanner for its safety and quality aspects of specific formulations due to the toxicity involved, especially of Herbo-mineral preparations containing heavy metals and other elements which is often alarming. Here, we are reporting a case of a male patient aged 53 years who presented to our CARI OPD with a pre-diagnosed case of diabetes for eight years. He was on Allopathic oral hypoglycemic drugs, but due to poor glycemic control, he also opted for Ayurvedic treatment. He was treated with Nishamalaki, Chandraprabha vati, and Ashwagandha for seven months and Sutashekhara rasa for three months. As the patient was concerned about the toxic fate of the drug due to the prolonged use of both Allopathic and Ayurvedic medicines, he got lab investigations done for 22 toxic elements like Arsenic, Mercury and Lead to evaluate the toxicity of the drugs. The reports showed that all toxic elements, including safety profiles, were within the average value. The heavy metals used in the Ayurvedic formulations are not delivered in elemental form. The formulation's physicochemical state differs from that of the natural heavy metal form. Furthermore, they are subjected to samskara (processing), which contributes to the purification, detoxification, and restoration of their therapeutic properties, making them safe for consumption.
A CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY STUDY TO EVALUATE THE BALA AND VYADHISAHATWA OF AN INDIVIDUAL WITH REFERENCE TO THE TIME OF CONCEPTION
Authors: M Shazia , Mangala Jyothsna GP , BV Priyanka , Goud Kiran M
Published: May 2024

Bala (physical strength) and Vyadhikshamatwa (Immunity) play a vital role in maintaining the swaasthya (health) of an individual and preventing the occurrence of any vyadhi (diseases). Immunity is a general concern for people who wish to maintain positive health. Common illnesses frequently hamper an individual's day-to-day activities, disturbing the equilibrium of body and mind. It also signifies that an individual's immunity is less, making him ill frequently. The purpose of this study is to know the role of Balavat Purushe Kale (born during the period of the season when strength is naturally strong) in maintaining the Bala and Vyadhikshamatwa of an individual. A close-ended questionnaire consisting of 12 questions and an open-ended questionnaire composed of 5 questions were created to obtain a range of Bala and Vyadhikshamatwa. In this study, it was observed that the range of Bala and Vyadhikshamatwa of individuals whose Ritu of conception comes under Hemanta (early winter) and Shishira (late winter) was found to be good as compared to other Ritu (seasons). It was also observed that there is an influence of factors like intake of satmya ahara (wholesome food), satwa bala (mental strength), nityasevaniya dravyas (pathya-indicated foods) and intake of shadrasayukta ahara (consumption of all six rasas-taste which includes sweet, sour, salt, pungent, bitter, astringent).
ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITIES OF CHANDANADI HERBAL DECOCTION
Authors: Sudha S , Sandeep Krishnan , Krishnapriya S
Published: May 2024

Ayurveda is a systematic medicinal system from India that comprehensively considers all aspects of health, including physical, mental, and social components. This study focuses on the antibacterial and antifungal attributes of Chandanadi herbal decoction. Employing the agar well diffusion method, the research gauges its effectiveness against gram-negative (Escherichia coli) and gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans) while utilizing Streptomycin and Clotrimazole as standard antibacterial and antifungal controls, respectively. The outcomes reveal diverse antibacterial responses, contingent on concentration, showcasing significant inhibition at elevated concentrations. In contrast, antifungal efficacy against Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans is comparatively restricted in comparison to Clotrimazole. The non-existence of inhibition zones across different concentrations implies diminished antifungal effectiveness. These discoveries improve our comprehension of Chandanadi herbal decoction's potential applications in addressing microbial challenges, highlighting the key role of concentration variations in future investigations.
PHYSICOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF MURCHHITA YASHTYADI GHRITA
Authors: Singhal Harish Kumar , Vyas Prem Prakash , Tyagi Vijaypal , . Neetu , Prajapati Pradeep Kumar
Published: May 2024

Background: According to the WHO, malnutrition is estimated to contribute to more than one-third of all child deaths, although most often, it is not listed as the direct cause. Nutrition-specific interventions, which address the immediate causes of undernutrition, have been proven to deliver among the best value for money of all development interventions. Ayurvedic literature has numerous herbal preparations in the form of medicines that need validation in today’s perspectives; Yashtyadi ghrita is one of those classical herbal formulations used in the management of Balsosha, mentioned in the famous textbook Ashtanga Samgraha Uttarasthan under the Balaupcharaniya chapter. Yashtyadi ghrita was prepared as per textual reference under the heading of sneha kalpana in Sharangdhara Samhita. To date, no research has been carried out on Yashtyadi ghrita. Therefore, the present study was planned to evaluate the physiochemical analysis of Yashtyadi ghrita. Aims and objectives: The aim was to prepare Yashtyadi ghrita and evaluate its pharmaceutical and analytical parameters. Materials and methods: Yashtyadi ghrita was prepared as per Sharangdhara Samhita, while murchhana of ghrita was done as per API and. Result: All the physicochemical parameters of Yashtyadi ghrita are found within the reference range explained in API for ghrita kalpana. Conclusion: Physiochemical parameters of Yashtyadi ghrita explained that no heavy metals, aflatoxins, or active microbes were detected. Therefore, it was a safe preparation for internal administration.
EVALUATION OF THE HAEMOSTATIC EFFECT OF PANCHAVALKALA KASHAYA AND AQUEOUS EXTRACT IN WISTAR RATS
Authors: Rose Aiswarya , Satheesan Sreejith
Published: May 2024

The effect of Panchavalkala group of drugs on blood coagulation has not been scientifically tested despite it has mentioned in Ayurveda by Acharya Sushruta. The current study investigates the effect of Panchavalkala kashaya and Panchavalkala aqueous extracts on Wistar rats by tail tip amputation method. Amount of bleeding and Haemostatic time is observed immediately after tail tip amputation in heparinised and non- heparinised groups. The data was analysed using Kruskal Wallis test. In non-heparinized category of Wistar rats proved that both Panchavalkala kashaya and Panchavalkala aqueous extract have highly significant haemostatic effect in the test animals. Panchavalkala aqueous extract was more effective in reducing haemostatic time as well as the amount of bleeding in heparinised Wistar rats when compared to Panchavalkala kashaya, which did not show any significant haemostatic effect in the heparinized test animals.
TOPICAL APPLICATIONS IN AYURVEDA FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ANAL FISSURES: A REVIEW
Authors: Shinde Jyoti N. , Kapgate Swati U. , Hande Vaishnavi H.
Published: May 2024

Anorectal fissures are a common ailment where the lining of the anal canal breaks or fractures painfully. Using a variety of topical treatments, traditional Ayurvedic medicine provides a comprehensive approach to control anal fissures. The purpose of this thorough analysis is to assess the efficacy of various Ayurvedic therapies for anal fissures, with an emphasis on the length of therapy and the rates of recovery linked to these interventions. A wide variety of Ayurvedic topical treatments, such as herbal ointments, medicinal oils, and formulations enhanced with natural constituents, are methodically analysed in this paper. To study the effect of various local applications in Ayurveda on treating fissures-in-ano. The text was collected from the classical Ayurvedic literature. Different research papers published in national and international journals were analysed systemically to determine their effectiveness in terms of duration of treatment and healing rate. According to the aforementioned study, numerous clinical trials were carried out in Ayurveda to demonstrate the efficacy of different local applications for the treatment of anal fissures, with a promising success rate. In three to four weeks, most of the fissures were observed to have fully healed. This study suggests that surgery can be avoided if anal fissure patients receive treatment in the initial stage with topical applications like ghrita, taila, malahara, pichu, guda varti, or guda basti.
WOUND HEALING POTENTIAL OF MURIVENNA, AN INDIGENOUS FORMULATION: A REVIEW
Authors: Mugilmathi BK , Kiran T. Udaya , Reddy K. Vasudeva , Menon Arya S.
Published: May 2024

The field of wound care and ulcer management is constantly evolving, with a relentless search for a therapeutically effective and cost-efficient drug. The present article focuses on the potential of Murivenna, an indigenous formulation used in the Southern part of India for wound healing and ulcer management. A thorough review of available online and offline literature was done using appropriate keywords and filters. The data produced was analysed, and the results were interpreted, revealing that every ingredient in Murivenna has significant wound-healing potential. Moreover, the drug's efficacy in various clinical scenarios associated with ulcer healing was also observed, further substantiating the result.
Gesundheitsdaten im Internet
Authors: Weichert Thilo
Published: May 2024

Wurden personenbezogene Gesundheitsdaten digital früher vor allem in abgeschotteten informationstechnischen Systemen verarbeitet, so erfolgte in den vergangenen Jahren eine immer stärker werdende Verknüpfung solcher Systeme über das Internet. Über Online-Angebote werden zunehmend Gesundheitsdaten erfasst und weiterverarbeitet. Dabei sind gegenüber weniger sensitiven Daten gesteigerte formelle und materielle Anforderungen zu beachten.
Amount B: Verrechnungspreise für risikoarme Vertriebsfunktionen – Eine erste Analyse des OECD-Abschlussberichts v. 19.2.2024 zum vereinfachten und gestrafften Ansatz des Amount B
Authors: Bärsch Sven-Eric , Schmidt Hendrik Niklas
Published: May 2024

Das OECD/G20 Inclusive Framework on BEPS hat den Abschlussbericht zum vereinfachten und gestrafften Ansatz für die Anwendung des Fremdvergleichsgrundsatzes auf bestimmte risikoarme Marketing- und Vertriebstätigkeiten (sog. Amount B) veröffentlicht, welcher der nächsten Fassung der OECD-Verrechnungspreisleitlinien beigefügt werden wird. Die Autoren stellen die Einzelheiten des Ansatzes dar, beleuchten die daraus folgenden Implikationen für international tätige Konzerne und unterziehen Amount B einer kritischen Würdigung.
Die Rechtsprechung zum Erbrecht im 1. Halbjahr 2023
Authors: Große-Wilde Franz M.
Published: May 2024

Der folgende Bericht schließt an den Bericht über die 2. Hälfte des Jahres 2022 (Große-Wilde, MDR 2023, 1355) an. Er umfasst die wichtigsten Entscheidungen vom 1.1.2023 bis zum 30.6.2023 nebst einigen Nachzüglern. Maßgeblich ist jeweils das Datum der Entscheidung. Die Entwicklung wird im Wesentlichen geprägt durch die Fortentwicklung auf bestehender rechtlicher Grundlage. Gesetzliche Neuregelungen im Kernbereich des Erbrechts sind im Berichtszeitraum nicht erfolgt.
Vermietung oder Verpachtung eines Grundstücks mit Betriebsvorrichtungen im Umsatzsteuerrecht — Eine Bestandsaufnahme nach Aufgabe des Aufteilungsgebots bei einer wirtschaftlich einheitlichen Leistung
Authors: Fittkau Herbert
Published: May 2024

Mit der Änderung der höchstrichterlichen Rechtsprechung zur Vermietung oder Verpachtung eines Grundstücks mit Betriebsvorrichtungen (V R 7/23 [V R 22/20]) entfällt das Erfordernis, einen einheitlichen wirtschaftlichen Vorgang in eigenständige Leistungen aufzuteilen. Die sich daraus ergebenden erheblichen Konsequenzen für Unternehmen mit Vermietungs- und Verpachtungskonstellationen geben Anlass zu einer Überprüfung und Anpassung der von der Änderung betroffenen Bestandsverträge nebst der dazugehörigen Rechnungen (Dauerrechnungen), Korrektur nach § 14c Abs. 1 i.V.m. § 17 Abs.1 UStG, Vorsteuerberichtigung nach § 15a UStG, AfA-Berichtigung sowie Berücksichtigung der neuen Rechtsansicht bei der künftigen Gestaltungsberatung. Zurzeit ist unklar, ob diese Änderung sich auch auf andere Aufteilungsgebote auswirkt.
Spark Plasma Sintering of a Zr‐Based Metallic Glass
Authors: Perrière Loïc , Thai Minh Thanh , Tusseau‐Nenez Sandrine , Blétry Marc , Champion Yannick
Published: March 2011

Development of metallic glasses is hindered by the difficulties in manufacturing bulk parts. In this paper, we report on the fabrication of glassy alloys using the spark plasma sintering of gas atomized powders. The Zr‐based processed alloy has a high glass forming ability. Its densification is obtained at the glass transition temperature (390 °C) under high pressure (≈ 500 MPa). Systematic study of the effect of powder particle size and sintering time is performed through structural and thermal analyses. Local and partial devitrification of the amorphous alloy is detected, resulting from local temperature overshoots. From these analyses, an approach of the spark plasma sintering mechanism of metallic glasses is proposed.
PATTERNED POLYMERS: Fabrication of Multiscale Gradient Polymer Patterns by Direct Molding and Spatially Controlled Reflow (Adv. Funct. Mater. 6/2011)
Authors: Chae Jae Joon , Lee Sung Hoon , Suh Kahp Y.
Published: March 2011

Size variations of pattern spacing as well as gradient control of the as‐formed polymeric pattern via a spatially controlled reflow process are presented. Micro‐ and nanopatterns of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) in the form of line‐and‐space strips are first generated by capillary force lithography (CFL), and the residual layers are removed by ashing process. Subsequently, the exposed PMMA strips underwent a controlled reflow process above the glass transition temperature (Tg) while heating single or both sides of the substrate either in parallel to the line pattern (parallel reflow) or perpendicular to the line pattern (perpendicular reflow). As a result of this controlled reflow, a linear or a parabolic profile of pattern spacing is achieved depending on the heating mode. Furthermore, multiscale gradient patterns are formed with the spacing ranging from 98 nm to 4.23 μm (a difference of two orders of magnitude) in a single patterned layer using the original micropattern of 16 μm width and 8 μm spacing. In order to explain reflow behaviors, a simple theoretical model relating the normalized pattern width to the polymer viscosity is derived based on a leveling kinetics of polymer melt. Also, gradient PMMA channels are fabricated and bonded to a glass substrate, which are used to flow a liquid inside the channels by capillarity‐driven flow.
Indications, technique, safety, and accuracy of office‐based nasal endoscopy with biopsy for sinonasal neoplasm
Authors: Tabaee Abtin , Hsu Amy K. , Kacker Ashutosh
Published: March 2011

Background

Office‐based nasal endoscopy with biopsy may provide histopathological diagnosis in patients with sinonasal neoplasms while avoiding operative biopsy. The objective of this study was to describe the technique, safety, and accuracy of office‐based nasal endoscopy with biopsy for a primary indication of sinonasal neoplasm.

Methods

A retrospective review of the indications, complications, and results of office‐based nasal endoscopy with biopsy for primary indication of neoplasm was performed. When available, comparison was made between the histopathological findings at biopsy vs surgery.

Results

A total of 61 patients underwent 69 office‐based endoscopic sinonasal biopsies during the 3‐year study period. The results of the biopsies in this cohort included inflammatory changes in 36 procedures (52%), benign neoplasm in 14 procedures (20%), malignant lesion in 12 procedures (17%), nondiagnostic tissue in 5 specimens (7%), and granulomatous/vasculitic lesion in 2 procedures (3%). Comparison of office biopsy vs surgery in 28 procedures (25 patients) revealed agreement in 23 procedures (82%), 2 false‐negative results for malignancy, 1 false‐negative result for hemangioma, and 1 false‐negative result and 1 false‐positive result each for inverted papilloma. Accuracy analysis for a diagnosis of neoplasm yielded a sensitivity of 71%, specificity of 93%, false‐positive rate of 9%, and false‐negative rate of 24%. No major complications were experienced.

Conclusion

Office‐based nasal endoscopy with biopsy represents a safe and important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of sinonasal neoplasms. The procedure is generally safe and provides diagnostic information that may alter treatment decisions. Limitations of the procedure do exist, notably issues related to accuracy. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Clinicopathological correlations in corticobasal degeneration
Authors: Lee Suzee E. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Mayo Mary Catherine , Wilson Stephen M. , Seeley William W. , DeArmond Stephen J. , Huang Eric J. , Trojanowski John Q. , Growdon Matthew E. , Jang Jung Y. , Sidhu Manu , See Tricia M. , Karydas Anna M. , Gorno‐Tempini Maria‐Luisa , Boxer Adam L. , Weiner Michael W. , Geschwind Michael D. , Rankin Katherine P. , Miller Bruce L.
Published: March 2011

Objective:

To characterize cognitive and behavioral features, physical findings, and brain atrophy patterns in pathology‐proven corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and corticobasal syndrome (CBS) with known histopathology.

Methods:

We reviewed clinical and magnetic resonance imaging data in all patients evaluated at our center with either an autopsy diagnosis of CBD (n = 18) or clinical CBS at first presentation with known histopathology (n = 40). Atrophy patterns were compared using voxel‐based morphometry.

Results:

CBD was associated with 4 clinical syndromes: progressive nonfluent aphasia (n = 5), behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (n = 5), executive‐motor (n = 7), and posterior cortical atrophy (n = 1). Behavioral or cognitive problems were the initial symptoms in 15 of 18 patients; less than half exhibited early motor findings. Compared to controls, CBD patients showed atrophy in dorsal prefrontal and perirolandic cortex, striatum, and brainstem (p < 0.001 uncorrected). The most common pathologic substrates for clinical CBS were CBD (35%), Alzheimer disease (AD, 23%), progressive supranuclear palsy (13%), and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) with TDP inclusions (13%). CBS was associated with perirolandic atrophy irrespective of underlying pathology. In CBS due to FTLD (tau or TDP), atrophy extended into prefrontal cortex, striatum, and brainstem, whereas in CBS due to AD, atrophy extended into temporoparietal cortex and precuneus (p < 0.001 uncorrected).

Interpretation:

Frontal lobe involvement is characteristic of CBD, and in many patients frontal, not parietal or basal ganglia, symptoms dominate early stage disease. CBS is driven by medial perirolandic dysfunction, but this anatomy is not specific to a single underlying histopathology. Antemortem prediction of CBD will remain challenging until clinical features of CBD are redefined, and sensitive, specific biomarkers are identified. ANN NEUROL 2011;
Synthesis and characterization of chitosan/urea‐formaldehyde shell microcapsules containing dicyclopentadiene
Authors: Wang Rongguo , Hu Honglin , He Xiaodong , Liu Wenbo , Li Haiyan , Guo Qiong , Yuan Liye
Published: March 2011

Microcapsules containing healing agent have been used to develop the self‐healing composites. These microcapsules must possess special properties during the use of composites such as stability in surrounding, appropriate mechanical strength, and lower permeability. A new series of microcapsules containing dicyclopentadiene with chitosan/urea‐formaldehyde copolymer as shell materials were synthesized by in situ copolymerization technology. The microencapsulating mechanism was discussed and the process was explained. Also, the factors influencing the preparation of microcapsules were analyzed. The morphology and shell wall thickness of microcapsules were observed by using scanning electron microscopy. The size of microcapsules was measured using optical microscope and the size distribution was investigated based on data sets of at least 200 measurements. The chemical structure and thermal properties of microcapsules were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. The storage stability and isothermal aging experiment of microcapsules were also investigated. Results indicted that the chitosan/urea‐formaldehyde microcapsules containing dicyclopentadiene were synthesized successfully; the copolymerization occurred between chitosan and urea‐formaldehyde prepolymer. The microcapsule size is in the range of 10–160 μm with an average of 45 μm. The shell thickness of microcapsules is in the range of 1–7 μm and the core content of microcapsules is 67%. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Structure and physical properties of EVA/starch precursor materials for foaming applications
Authors: Rodriguez‐Perez M. A. , Simoes R. D. , Constantino C. J. L. , de Saja J. A.
Published: March 2011

The use of biodegradable materials to develop polymeric blends visioning distinct applications is desirable and nowadays is an important research field. In this work, blends of an ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and 30, 50, and 70% in weight of an unmodified corn starch have been successfully fabricated. The structure of these blends have been characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). It was found that the original starch particles are kept in the blends forming a separate phase from EVA. The FTIR confirmed that EVA and starch comprise a physical mixture in the blends. Besides, the blends were found very homogenous and mainly amorphous with the EVA melting temperature being independent of the starch content. The melt flow index (MFI) decreased for higher contents of starch, revealing that starch acts as a filler in the blends. Physical properties such as density, hardness, and thermal conductivity were found to increase with the content of starch in the blends. Considering one of the goals of this research, which is producing foams using these blends as precursor materials, the structural and physical characteristics determined here are very satisfactory and open good perspectives in this sense. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
The X‐shooter pipeline
Authors: Goldoni P.
Published: March 2011

The X‐shooter data reduction pipeline is an integral part of the X‐shooter project, it allows the production of reduced data in physical quantities from the raw data produced by the instrument. The pipeline is based on the data reduction library developed by the X‐shooter consortium with contributions from France, The Netherlands and ESO and it uses the Common Pipeline Library (CPL) developed at ESO. The pipeline has been developed for two main functions. The first function is to monitor the operation of the instrument through the reduction of the acquired data, both at Paranal, for a quick‐look control, and in Garching, for a more thorough evaluation. The second function is to allow an optimized data reduction for a scientific user. In the following I will first outline the main steps of data reduction with the pipeline then I will briefly show two examples of optimization of the results for science reduction (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Extremely metal‐poor stars in SDSS fields
Authors: Bonifacio P. , Caffau E. , François P. , Sbordone L. , Ludwig H.‐G. , Spite M. , Molaro P. , Spite F. , Cayrel R. , Hammer F. , Hill V. , Nonino M. , Randich S. , Stelzer B. , Zaggia S.
Published: March 2011

Some insight on the first generation of stars can be obtained from the chemical composition of their direct descendants, extremely metal‐poor stars (EMP), with metallicity less than or equal to 1/1000 of the solar metallicity. Such stars are exceedingly rare, the most successful surveys, for this purpose, have so far provided only about 100 stars with 1/1000 the solar metallicity and 4 stars with about 1/10000 of the solar metallicity. The Sloan Digital Sky Survey has the potential to provide a large number of candidates of extremely low metallicity. X‐shooter has the unique capability of performing the necessary follow‐up spectroscopy providing accurate metallicities and abundance ratios for several elements (Mg, Al, Ca, Ti, Cr, Sr,...) for EMP candidates. We here report on the results for the first two stars observed in the course of our Franco‐Italian X‐shooter GTO. The two stars were targeted to be of metallicity around –3.0, the analysis of the X‐shooter spectra showed them to be of metallicity around –2.0, but with a low α to iron ratio, which explains the underestimate of the metallicity from the SDSS spectra. The efficiency of X‐shooter allows an in situ study of the outer halo, for the two stars studied here we estimate distances of 3.9 and 9.1 kpc, these are likely the most distant dwarf stars studied in detail to date (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Commentary progress in the de novo design of structured peptoid protein mimics
Authors: Wetzler Modi , Barron Annelise E.
Published: March 2011

Significant progress has been made in recent years toward creating interesting, unique, and in some cases, predictable oligopeptoid/polypeptoid secondary, tertiary, and in one case, quaternary structures. This article describes this progress, identifies a few of the many remaining challenges, and discusses potentially interesting or fruitful strategies for the peptoid biomimetics research community. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 96: 556–560, 2011.
Biocatalytic generation of Mn(III)‐chelate as a chemical oxidant of different environmental contaminants
Authors: Taboada‐Puig Roberto , Lú‐Chau Thelmo , Eibes Gemma , Moreira María Teresa , Feijoo Gumersindo , Lema Juan Manuel
Published: March 2011

The objective of this study was to investigate the enzymatic generation of the Mn3+‐malonate complex and its application to the process of oxidizing several organic compounds. The experimental set‐up consisted of an enzymatic reactor coupled to an ultrafiltration membrane, providing continuous generation of Mn3+‐malonate from a reaction medium containing versatile peroxidase (an enzyme produced by Bjerkandera adusta strain BOS55), H2O2, MnSO4, and malonate. The effluent of the enzymatic reactor was introduced into a batch‐stirred reactor to oxidize three different classes of compounds: an azo dye (Orange II), three natural and synthetic estrogens, and a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (anthracene). The enzymatic reactor provided the Mn3+ complex under steady‐state conditions, and this oxidative species was able to transform the three classes of xenobiotics considerably (90–99%) with negligible loss of activity. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Comparison of in vivo acute stent recoil between the bioresorbable everolimus‐eluting coronary scaffolds (revision 1.0 and 1.1) and the metallic everolimus‐eluting stent
Authors: Onuma Yoshinobu , Serruys Patrick W. , Gomez Josep , de Bruyne Bernard , Dudek Dariusz , Thuesen Leif , Smits Peter , Chevalier Bernard , McClean Dougal , Koolen Jacques , Windecker Stephan , Whitbourn Robert , Meredith Ian , Garcia‐Garcia Hector , Ormiston John A. ,   on behalf of the ABSORB Cohort A and B investigators
Published: March 2011

Objectives: The ABSORB cohort A trial using the bioresorbable everolimus‐eluting scaffold (BVS revision 1.0, Abbott Vascular) demonstrated a slightly higher acute recoil with BVS than with metallic stents. To reinforce the mechanical strength of the scaffold, the new BVS scaffold (revision 1.1) with modified strut design was developed and tested in the ABSORB cohort B trial. This study sought to evaluate and compare the in vivo acute scaffold recoil of the BVS revision 1.0 in ABSORB cohort A and the BVS revision 1.1 in ABSORB cohort B with the historical recoil of the XIENCE V® everolimus‐eluting metal stent (EES, SPIRIT I and II). Methods: In the ABSORB cohort B trial, 101 patients with one or two de‐novo lesions were enrolled at 10 sites. In ABSORB cohort A, 27 patients treated with a BVS 1.0 were analyzed and compared with EES. Acute absolute recoil, assessed by quantitative coronary angiography, was defined as the difference between mean diameter of the last inflated balloon at the highest pressure (X) and mean lumen diameter of the stent immediately after the last balloon deflation (Y). Acute percent recoil was defined as (X ‐ Y)/X and expressed as a percentage. Results: Out of 101 patients enrolled in the ABSORB cohort B trial, 88 patients are available for complete analysis of acute recoil. Absolute recoil of BVS 1.1 (0.19 ± 0.18 mm) was numerically higher than metallic EES (vs. 0.13 ± 0.21 mm) and similar to BVS 1.0 (0.20 ± 0.21 mm) but the differences did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.40). The acute percent recoil demonstrated the same trend (EES: 4.3% ± 7.1%, BVS 1.0: 6.9% ± 7.0%, BVS 1.1: 6.7% ± 6.4%, P = 0.22). In the multivariate regression model, high balloon/artery ratio (>1.1) (OR 1.91 [1.34–2.71]) was the predictive for high absolute recoil (>0.27 mm) while (larger) preprocedural MLD was protective (OR 0.84 [0.72–0.99]). The stent/scaffold type was not a predictor of acute recoil. Conclusions: The average in vivo acute scaffold recoil of the BVS 1.1 is slightly higher than the metallic EES. However, the scaffold/stent type was not predictive of high acute recoil, while implantation in undersized vessels or usage of oversized devices might confound the results. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term outcome of provisional side‐branch T‐stenting for the treatment of unprotected distal left main coronary artery disease
Authors: De Luca Leonardo , Altamura Luca , Corvo Pierfrancesco , De Persio Giovanni , Ghini Anna S. , Petrolini Alessandro , Aurigemma Cristina , Tomai Fabrizio
Published: March 2011

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on distal left main (LM) remains an independent predictor of poor outcome. The strategy of implanting one stent on the main branch (MB), with provisional stenting on the side‐branch (SB) only when required (provisional T‐stenting), has become the default approach to most bifurcation lesions. This prospective registry sought to investigate the long‐term safety and efficacy of provisional SB T‐stenting for the treatment of unprotected distal LM disease in patients undergoing PCI. From January 2006 to May 2009, 107 consecutive patients affected by unprotected distal LM disease underwent PCI at our center with the intent to use a provisional SB‐stenting technique. We evaluated the rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at long‐term follow‐up (up to 12–41 months). Procedural success was obtained in 98% of patients. A final kissing balloon inflation was performed in 95% and intravascular ultrasound in 83% of patients. Additional stenting on the SB after provisional stenting on MB was required in 29% of lesions. Long‐term follow‐up (3.5 years; 25–75th percentile and 1.1–4.5 years) was completed in 97% of patients. The cumulative incidence of MACE was 32.7%: all‐cause death was 15.8%, nonfatal myocardial infarction 8.4%, and target vessel revascularization 21.5%. At multivariable analysis, age (hazard ratio, 2.08; 95% confidence interval: 2.01–3.32, P = 0.03), European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (HR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.04–1.33, P = 0.02), and diabetes mellitus (HR 3.48, 95% CI: 1.12–6.87, P = 0.01) were identified as independent predictors of MACE. In patients with unprotected distal LM disease undergoing PCI, a provisional strategy of stenting the MB only is associated with good long‐term clinical outcomes. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targeted transendocardial therapeutic delivery guided by mri—x‐ray image fusion
Authors: Tomkowiak Michael T. , Klein Andrew J. , Vigen Karl K. , Hacker Timothy A. , Speidel Michael A. , VanLysel Michael S. , Raval Amish N.
Published: March 2011

Objectives: To validate a multi‐modality image fusion approach to guide catheter‐based, targeted transendocardial therapeutic delivery in a swine myocardial infarction (MI) model. Background: Biologic agents such as stem cells may curb post MI adverse ventricular remodeling if delivered by a transendocardial catheter directly into the infarct border. 3D visualization of the infarct and other cardiac surfaces is required to perform this task. We propose registering and overlaying magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) roadmaps onto live x‐ray fluoroscopy (XRF) to guide targeted transendocardial delivery. Methods: Custom software was used to register and overlay MRI models of the endocardium and infarct on live XRF by aligning common endocardial border features. In a swine MI model, transendocardial injections of co‐localizing imaging labels were performed, targeting a 20 mm perimeter around the infarct. Directed targeting error (DTE) was defined as the difference between the predicted injection site‐to‐infarct distance calculated by the image fusion system, to the actual distance determined by postprocedure in vivo MRI. The mobile image fusion system was designed to be vendor‐independent for imaging systems and transendocardial catheters. Results: Transendocardial injections were performed in all animals without complications. Mean DTE was 0.9 ± 5.0 mm (n = 8 swine). Time to register the images and establish a high quality roadmap was less than 12 min in all animals. Custom imaging tools to display injection sites and distribution were useful adjuncts during targeted injection procedures. Conclusions: Multi‐modality image fusion is a feasible and accurate platform technology to guide transendocardial injections precisely to the discrete infarct border. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemometric assessment of the semivolatile organic contaminants content in the atmosphere of the selected sites in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Stafilov Trajče , Škrbić Biljana , Klánová Jana , Čupr Pavel , Holoubek Ivan , Kočov Marin , Đurišić‐Mladenović Nataša
Published: March 2011

Data obtained through a pilot study for the development of the monitoring network in the Central and Eastern Europe (MONET_CEEC) 2006, regarding the occurrence of 12 organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), seven indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 28 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the air of six locations in the Republic of Macedonia have been interpreted by principal component (PCA) and cluster (CA) analysis. The data structures of three sets organized to contain the atmospheric concentrations of (a) PAHs, the so‐called PAHs set, (b) both classes of organochlorine compounds (PCBs and OCPs) grouped in the organochlorinated compounds (OCCs) set and (c) the overall data (the semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs) set) were compared. The PCA results suggested mixed origin of PAHs, especially dominant in the urban zones of Skopje, the capital of the Republic of Macedonia. Furthermore, it was found that retene had a distinctive source that separated it from the rest of the PAHs, and it was linked to the incidents of biomass burning. The OCC atmospheric patterns differed among the sites more than it was the case with the PAH patterns, implying some site‐specific sources or conditions that influenced the OCC atmospheric concentrations. CA coupled with bootstraps confirmed the groupings of samples found by the PCA biplots. The influence of available meteorological parameters on the SVOC atmospheric concentrations has been evaluated by multiple regression analysis (MRA) indicating the positive impacts of temperature and wind speed for majority of analyzed SVOCs. Precipitation was found to be linked proportionally only with pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcome of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for Concurrent Eating and Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Courbasson Christine , Nishikawa Yasunori , Dixon Lauren
Published: March 2011

Aim. The current study examined the preliminary efficacy of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) adapted for concurrent eating disorders (EDs) and substance use disorders (SUDs).

Method. A matched randomized controlled trial was carried out with 25 female outpatients diagnosed with concurrent ED and SUD. Participants randomized to the intervention condition received DBT, whereas those randomized to the control condition received treatment as usual (TAU), both for a period of 1 year. A series of measures related to disordered eating, substance use and depression were administered to the participants at the beginning of treatment and at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months into treatment, followed by 3‐month and 6‐month follow‐up assessments.

Findings. Participants randomized to the DBT condition evidenced a superior retention rate relative to their counterparts in the TAU condition at various study time points, including post‐treatment (80% versus 20%) and follow‐up (60% versus 20%). Due to the unexpected elevated dropout rates and the worsening of ED–SUD symptomatology in the TAU condition, recruitment efforts were terminated early. Results from the DBT condition revealed that the intervention had a significant positive effect on behavioural and attitudinal features of disordered eating, substance use severity and use, negative mood regulation and depressive symptoms. Finally, increases in participants' perceived ability to regulate and cope with negative emotional states were significantly associated with decreases in emotional eating and increases in levels of confidence in ability to resist urges for substance use.

Conclusion. Results suggest that the adapted DBT might hold promise for treating individuals with concurrent ED and SUD. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

The current study is the first study to report positive effects of DBT on individuals with concurrent eating and substance use disorders. Although the results require replication and extension, they suggest that the DBT may be promising for this population.

The results suggest that clinicians treating individuals with concurrent eating and substance use problems should be particularly cautious of poor treatment retention and treatment complications.

The results bear upon the highly salient and important issue of whether individuals with concurrent substance use need to be excluded from research studies and treatment programmes.
Synthesis and characterization of magnesium doped lead titanate
Authors: Fadil F. Z. , Lamcharfi T. , Abdi F. , Aillerie M.
Published: March 2011

Magnesium (Mg) doped lead titanate powders (PT: Mg) ceramics, with various Mg contents (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, and 30 mole %), are prepared by the sol‐gel method and characterized by X‐Ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. XRD results show that the magnesium diminishes the lattice tetragonality of PT:Mg. The average particle size and morphology were studied by SEM. The investigations done by Raman spectroscopy allow the analyzis of the substitution mechanism behavior related to the Mg incorporation into PT structure. A concentration threshold appears around 10% of Mg corresponding in a change of the compensation process with Mg2+ ions replacing Pb2+ ions below and both Pb2+ and Ti4+ above. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Diagnostics of Space Plasma on Board International Space Station ‐ ISS
Authors: Rothkaehl H. , Morawski M. , Puccio W. , Bergman J. , Klimov S. I.
Published: March 2011

Electromagnetic emissions observed in the nearest Earth environment are a superposition of natural emissions and various types of man‐made noises. Also, as a consequence of catastrophic events on the Earth surface such as: thunderstorm activity, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, electromagnetic signals are registered on board low orbiting satellites. Therefore, a more accurate physical description of such a complex and dynamic system calls for a long term multi‐point and multi‐scales coordinated monitoring of space environment.

The aim of OBSTANOVKA experiment on board ISS station is to monitor and diagnose the electromagnetic radiation and property of plasma around station, to enable the development theory of near Earth plasma interaction and for application purposes in space technology. To achieve these goals the Plasma‐Wave Complex (PWC) was designed and constructed. Radio Frequency Analyser (RFA) has been developed jointly by SRC PAS in Warsaw and by IRF in Uppsala. New design radio receiver for frequency band 0.1‐15 MHz, with three electric and magnetic field component of antenna system on board ISS was designed to monitoring and investigate the ionospheric plasma property and artificial noises generated around ISS. The instrument can be also used for monitoring the electromagnetic ecosystem for space weather purpose. New digital technology of this instrument creates a excellent possibility for monitoring the electromagnetic emissions in space and time domain (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)