bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum free light chain immunoassay as an adjunct to serum protein electrophoresis and immunofixation electrophoresis in the detection of multiple myeloma and other B-cell malignancies
Authors: Harding Stephen J. , Mead Graham P. , Bradwell Arthur R. , Berard Annie M.
Published: February 2009

: Protein and immunofixation electrophoresis of serum and urine are established as diagnostic aids for identifying monoclonal gammopathies. However, many patient sera sent to laboratories are not accompanied by urine samples and recent reports suggest the use of serum free light chain (sFLC) analysis in combination with serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) and immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) could eliminate the need for urinalysis. The aim of the study was to assess the utility of sFLC measurement in addition to serum protein electrophoresis in the identification of patients with B-cell malignancies.

: A total of 952 serum samples were analysed by serum protein electrophoresis and those with abnormal bands were analysed by immunofixation. sFLCs were measured in a retrospective manner by automated assay.

: In our study of 952 patient sera, it was found that FLC analysis identified 23 additional cases of B-cell malignancies which were missed by SPE.

: The additional malignancies identified by sFLC analysis add support for its inclusion in the routine screening protocol for B-cell malignancies.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2009;47:302–4.
HbA1c determination – A new diagnostic criterion?1
Authors: Steveling Antje , Völzke Henry , Nauck Matthias , Wallaschofski Henri
Published: February 2009

According to the current guidelines, in Germany type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is diagnosed by the criteria of the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Using HbA1c as a screening parameter of T2DM has not been accepted by the ADA until now because of insufficient standardisation and low sensitivity. Nevertheless, since recently published investigations could prove high sensitivity and specificity, HbA1c will gain more attention as a screening parameter. We discuss the meaning of HbA1c as a screening parameter for T2DM and as a predictor of disease progress.
Optimierung der Stellgrößenfolge eines DC-DC-WandlersOptimization of Control Sequences for DC-DC-Converters
Authors: Kröger Claus
Published: February 2009

DC-DC-Wandler werden in der Leistungselektronik eingesetzt, um mit einem hohen Wirkungsgrad unterschiedliche Spannungsniveaus elektrischer Quellen und Verbraucher anzupassen. Diese leistungselektronischen Stellglieder arbeiten zur Minimierung von Verlusten deshalb stets mit schaltenden Leistungshalbleitern. Aus diesem schaltenden Prinzip des Wandlers resultiert eine Stellgrößenbegrenzung, welche die Regeldynamik für die Ausgangsspannung stark einschränkt. In diesem Beitrag wird eine Optimierung der Stellgrößenfolge für eine hochdynamische Regelung eines DC-DC-Wandlers auf dem Regelungsansatz einer endlichen Einstellzeit entwickelt, so dass die prinzipbedingte Stellgrößenschranke eingehalten wird.
Was geschrieben ist, ist geschrieben – Legacy CICS-Anwendungen im neuen GewandWhat is written, is written – Modern Legacy CICS-Applications
Authors: Stefan Fred , Herrmann Paul , Spruth Wilhelm G.
Published: February 2009

Integrationsprojekte sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil einer anpassungsfähigen Informationstechnologie und für einen flexiblen Geschäftsbetrieb unumgänglich. Gerade im Großrechnerbereich besteht ein wachsender Bedarf an Modernisierungsmöglichkeiten für Altanwendungen. Dieser Artikel beleuchtet einen von IBM verfolgten Ansatz zur Modernisierung von Legacy-Anwendungen und diskutiert die nötigen Schritte, um Altanwendungen auf den neusten Stand zu bringen. Das Service Flow Feature (SFF) bietet einen interessanten Ansatz zur Modernisierung von Legacy CICS-Anwendungen (CICS: Customer Information Control System), weil bereits laufende Anwendungen weiterverwendet und in vorhandene Architekturen integriert werden können. Zudem werden bessere Modernisierungsmöglichkeiten bereitgestellt als lediglich die Anpassung der Oberfläche. Hinzu kommt, dass mehrere CICS-Anwendungen aggregiert werden können und die damit erzeugten Geschäftsprozesse über offene Schnittstellen erreichbar sind. Gleichzeitig findet eine Entkopplung der Präsentationslogik von der Anwendungslogik statt. Letzteres bietet dem Entwickler die Möglichkeit, modernere Methoden der Präsentationslogik wie z.B. mittels JSP zu implementieren. Über den Einsatz des CICS SFF in der Entwicklungsumgebung RDz besteht für Firmen kurz- bis mittelfristig die Chance, ihr Reservoire an Legacy CICS-Anwendungen mit relativ wenig Aufwand den modernen IT-Anforderungen anzupassen.
Algorithmische und komplexitätstheoretische Aspekte kombinatorischer PreisoptimierungComputational Aspects of Combinatorial Pricing Problems
Authors: Briest Patrick
Published: February 2009

Kombinatorische Preisoptimierung umfasst eine Vielzahl natürlicher Optimierungsprobleme, die sowohl bei der Berechnung erlösmaximierender Produktpreise auf Basis von Umfragedaten, als auch im Entwurf profitmaximierender Auktionsmechanismen in spieltheoretischen Szenarien eine wesentliche Rolle spielen. Die hier beschriebene Arbeit befasst sich mit algorithmischen und komplexitätstheoretischen Aspekten solcher Probleme und hat ihren Schwerpunkt, angesichts der Tatsache, dass die meisten der betrachteten Probleme NP-schwierig sind, im Bereich der Approximationsalgorithmen und Nichtapproximierbarkeit.
Optische Volumenbestimmung für die Dosierung kleinster VoluminaOptical Measurement of Minimal Volumes in Dispensing
Authors: Krüger Thomas , Thurow Kerstin , Stoll Norbert
Published: February 2009

Die zunehmende Miniaturisierung im Bereich der Forschung in den Life Sciences benötigt Dosierverfahren, die in der Lage sind, immer kleinere Mengen hochgenau zu dosieren. U. a. findet hier die Piezotechnologie (adaptiert aus der Tintenstrahldrucktechnik) Anwendung, mit der sich gezielt einzelne Tröpfchen erzeugen lassen. Mit Hilfe eines Piezokristalls wird für wenige Mikrosekunden Druck auf eine mit Flüssigkeit gefüllte Glaskapillare ausgeübt. Durch diesen Druckimpuls wird ein Tropfen in der Größenordnung von 50–500pl aus einer Düse katapultiert. Die Eigenschaften der erzeugten Tropfen, u. a. deren Volumen, sind abhängig von der verwendeten Flüssigkeit sowie der Ansteuerung des Piezoelementes. Da die präzise Dosierung größerer Mengen auf dem Erzeugen einzelner Tropfen basiert, ist die Kenntnis des Tropfenvolumens von Interesse. Es wird hier eine Methode vorgestellt, die basierend auf Bilderfassung und Bildverarbeitung das Tropfenvolumen bestimmen kann. Der Fokus richtet sich dabei insbesondere auf die Anwendbarkeit dieses Verfahrens in Dosierrobotern in der Praxis.
Depensatory Mortality, Density‐Dependent Growth, and Delayed Compensation: Disentangling the Interplay of Mortality, Growth, and Density during Early Life Stages of Yellow Perch
Authors: Irwin Brian J. , Rudstam Lars G. , Jackson James R. , VanDeValk Anthony J. , Forney John L. , Fitzgerald Dean G.
Published: February 2009

We present long‐term (>40‐year) patterns in the density of age‐0 yellow perch Perca flavescens in Oneida Lake at four early life stages (at egg deposition, at the attainment of a total length of 18 mm, on 1 August, and on 15 October), from which we calculated mortality and growth rates during the three intervals between these early life stages. At each of these stages, age‐0 yellow perch densities have been lower in recent years than in the 1960s and 1970s. Mortality rates showed no time trend from egg to 18 mm (interval 1 [the larval stage]), increased from 18 mm to 1 August (interval 2 [the limnetic stage]), and decreased from 1 August to 15 October (interval 3 [the demersal stage]). We also tested previous hypotheses for density‐dependent effects on mortality and growth using the entire long‐term data set. Contrary to expectations from the 1960s, the mortality rates of age‐0 yellow perch in Oneida Lake are no longer depensatory. Overall, the growth rate of age‐0 yellow perch has increased over time and become density dependent. Also contrary to common expectations of size‐selective mortality, greater average total length is not associated with decreased instantaneous daily mortality for two early life stage intervals. The combined effect has been a decline in age‐0 yellow perch density and an increase in average total length by the end of their first year. Although increased growth has not sufficiently compensated for increased mortality during the first year of life, obtaining a larger end‐of‐year size should reduce subsequent mortality during the winter period, providing for a process of delayed compensation that helps stabilize density at age 1.
Glifosato aplicado com diferentes concentrações de uréia ou sulfato de amônio para dessecação de plantas daninhas
Authors: Carvalho Saul Jorge Pinto de , Dias Ana Carolina Ribeiro , Damin Virginia , Nicolai Marcelo , Christoffoleti Pedro Jacob
Published: February 2009

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de avaliar a eficácia do herbicida glifosato, para a dessecação de trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis) e outras plantas daninhas, quando combinado a diferentes concentrações de sulfato de amônio ou uréia. Foram conduzidos três experimentos com tratamentos semelhantes: dois em campo e um em casa de vegetação. Os tratamentos aplicados em campo foram: glifosato (360 g ha-1 de e.a.), isolado ou acrescido de quatro concentrações de sulfato de amônio (2,5, 5, 10 e 20 g L-1) ou uréia (1,5, 3, 6 e 12 g L-1); glifosato a 720 g ha-1 de e.a., aplicado isoladamente; e testemunha sem aplicação. Em casa de vegetação, para o controle específico da trapoeraba, as doses de glifosato foram elevadas para 720 (isolado e nas combinações) e 1.440 g ha-1 de e.a. A adição de sulfato de amônio à calda do glifosato elevou o controle das plantas daninhas em campo, para as concentrações com até 10 g L-1. O herbicida glifosato não foi eficaz no controle da trapoeraba, em nenhumas das doses usadas. A adição de uréia não promoveu incrementos de controle em condição de campo; porém, para concentrações de até 6 g L-1, melhorou o controle da trapoeraba, na avaliação conduzida aos 28 dias após aplicação.
Working Memory and Writing in Bilingual Students
Authors: Adams Anne-Marie , Guillot Kim
Published: February 2009

The vocabulary, spelling and writing skills of French/English bilingual students aged between 12 and 15 years were assessed, along with their verbal working memory (VWM), visuo-spatial working memory (VSWM) and phonological short-term memory (PSTM) skills. The extent to which individual differences in writing performance reflected variations in working memory skills which were specific to the memory domain and the language of testing was assessed. All three components of working memory were significantly associated across languages confirming their independence in this bilingual sample. Significant associations were also identified between vocabulary knowledge and VWM in both languages. For text composition in English, significant associations were identified between spelling and PSTM assessed in English, with medium sized, but non-significant, correlations identified with vocabulary knowledge and VWM. For text composition in French, although the associations with spelling, PSTM and VWM were of a moderate effect size, none of these associations reached significance. Comparisons across languages revealed that although writing in English was not significantly associated with either French vocabulary or spelling, writing in French was associated with both these subcomponent skills assessed in English. Visuo-spatial working memory bore little association with either spelling or writing skills either within or across languages. Broadly speaking therefore the data were consistent with an interpretation of the relationship between working memory and writing that reflects a domain-specific view of the capacity limitations in working memory which constrain writing performance, rather than limitations imposed by a domain-general attentional construct. However, it was proposed that these verbal processing effects are not language-specific.
Plagiarism by Non-Native Speaker Student Writers
Authors: Lankamp Robert
Published: February 2009

Many studies have attributed plagiarism to the temptations of the Internet, teachers’ reluctance to enforce the rules, belonging to a culture where academic plagiarism is condoned, or non-native speakership. In this paper, it is first argued that none of these can be considered direct causes of plagiarism, and other studies are cited that support this position. It is further argued that non-native student plagiarism is caused by ignorance of the rules and/or authorial problems. Further support for this claim is provided by an empirical study involving inappropriate use of source texts by eight non-native speaker graduate students. This study confirms the findings in Pecorari (2003, 2006) where it is claimed that plagiarizing non-native speakers have personal, idiosyncratic views of plagiarism that demonstrate their ignorance of the generally accepted rules. This study also confirms the findings in Abasi et al. (2006) where it is claimed that authorial problems are a root cause of plagiarism by ESL students. Finally, it is investigated what the relationship is between ignorance of the rules of plagiarism and authorial problems.
Development of Fluency and Revision in L1 and L2 Writing in Swedish High School Years Eight and Nine
Authors: Lindgren Eva , Spelman Miller Kristyan , Sullivan Kirk P.H.
Published: February 2009

In this paper we use keystroke logging to examine the development of fluency and revision in high school L1 Swedish and L2 English writing. Each writer wrote one text in English and one in Swedish in each year of the study. Using a combination of statistical and automatic analyses of the keystroke log, we attempted to investigate: i) how the on-line writing process in terms of revising, pausing and fluency in first and second language writing changes over time, ii) whether there are on-line writing process variables which can be identified as contributing to text improvement, and iii) whether there are any aspects of L1 writing which can be identified as contributing to L2 writing and learning processes and which may form part of a teaching programme. Previous studies of L2 writers have attested to changes in fluency, pause and revision behaviour, and amount of text produced, although associations with the quality of the final output are not clearly supported. The within-writer comparison of this study addresses differences in fluency, pause and revision behaviour between L1 and L2 writing. A regression analysis looking at quality and two types of revision (Form, and Conceptual) found that form revision frequency was related to the language of writing and that conceptual revision frequency was dependent on linguistic experience rather than on language. The findings suggest that conceptual revision and writing skills are transferred from the L1 to the L2, and that these skills should be taught accordingly.
Strategic and Interactive Writing Instruction (SIWI)
Authors: Wolbers Kimberly A.
Published: February 2009

This study investigates the effects of using Strategic and Interactive Writing Instruction (SIWI) with deaf, middle school students who use American Sign Language as their L1 and written English as L2. Using a pretest-posttest control group design, the research explores whether students receiving SIWI made significantly greater gains compared to those not receiving SIWI on a number of variables. There were 33 total students, 16 in the treatment group and 17 in the comparison group. The intervention lasted a total of 8 weeks, during which time the treatment group collaboratively constructed two report papers using SIWI components, and the comparison group continued with their typical literacy instruction. The pre and posttest measures were scored, according to rubrics, for evidence of primary traits, contextual language, and conventions. The multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and follow-up univariate analyses were statistically significant. Furthermore, effect sizes (d) were large to very large, ranging from 1.27 to 2.65, indicating SIWI to be an effective approach with deaf L2 writers.
Characteristics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from intensive care unit
Authors: Ozer Burcin , Tatman-Otkun Muserref , Memis Dilek , Otkun Metin
Published: February 2009

The study looked at the antimicrobial resistance patterns, serotypes, molecular types, metallo beta-lactamase, and chromosomal betalactamase enzymes of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from the patients and the staffs of the intensive care unit. P. aeruginosa isolates from the patients as nosocomial pathogens and from the staffs were evaluated for their susceptibilities to the antimicrobials by the disk diffusion and E-test methods. Metallo beta-lactamase enzymes were investigated by E-test, the inducibility of β - lactamase enzymes were detected by the disk antagonism test. Serotyping was performed by slide agglutination method. The P. aeruginosa isolates were typed by pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Twenty-five P. aeruginosa strains from the patients and three from the staffs were isolated. Fifteen P. aeruginosa, eleven of which composed of MDR bacteria, were found in serogroup E, 7 strains in G, 4 strains in B, and 1 strain in serogroup A. In all 12 bacteria in the MDR and serogroup E, metallo beta-lactamase enzyme was found to be positive. And in other 15 strains, except the bacterium which could not be serotyped, chromosomal beta-lactamase was found to be positive. The result of the molecular typing showed PFGE A pattern. In conclusion, a pattern in PFGE which included bacteria from MDR and serogroup E, G which was observed in the P. aeruginosa strains which was isolated from the staff’s hands and from the 5 patients, and PFGE F pattern were found to be observed the most. Finally, the two different clonal strains were found to be established in the intensive care.
Causes of death in HIV-infected patients in the region of Lodz, Poland from 1995 through 2005
Authors: Jabłonowska Elżbieta , Małolepsza Ewa
Published: February 2009

In 2005, 440 patients infected with HIV were registered in the AIDS center in Lodz, Poland. The aim of our study was to analyze the causes of death in 70 fatal cases. We analyzed the data from 70 fatal cases from 1995 through 2005. Of the fatal cases we investigated, 10 were in women and 60 in men. The most common route of HIV transmission was intravenous drug use (50%). At the time of death, the mean age of patients was 36,48 years, and the mean CD4 count was 115,14 cells per microliter. The mean time from HIV diagnosis to death was 3,75 years. The leading cause of death in the group from 1995 through 2004 was AIDS. In 2002, liver diseases resulting from hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection were the cause of death in two patients. In 2005, two patients died as a result of myocardial infarction. The prevalence of fatal cases decreased from 9,09 % in 1995 to 1,59 % in 2005. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was found in 4 of 62 patients (6,45%), anti-HCV in 28 patients (45,16%), and both hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HCV infection in 5 patients (8,07%). Coinfections occurred most frequently in intravenous drug users (IDUs). In conclusions: (1) AIDS is still the leading cause of death in HIV-positive patients in the Lodz region; (2) the emerging cause of death in HIV-positive patients is liver disease as the sequel of HBV and HCV coinfections; (3) heart disease is becoming an important cause of death in HIV-positive patients.
A case report of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis colonization of a femoral wound in central europe
Authors: Dombrádi Zsuzsanna , Bodnár Ferenc , Orosi Piroska , Dombrádi Viktor , Szabó Judit
Published: February 2009

Wound infection and colonization following cardiac surgery is well known but rarely caused by vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). A case of femoral wound colonization by vanA carrying Enterococcus faecalis in a patient following mitral prolapse surgery is described in this report.
Feasibility of early hospital discharge directly from coronary care unit after primary angioplasty for uncomplicated acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Pernat Andrej , Lainscak Mitja , Mohar Aleksandra , Noc Marko
Published: February 2009

Current European and American guidelines recommend early discharge for patients with uncomplicated acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, this concept has not been widely accepted, and experience with direct discharge from the coronary care unit is limited. We aimed to investigate safety and cost effectiveness of early discharge directly from coronary care unit following successful percutaneous coronary angioplasty (PTCA) in patients with uncomplicated AMI. We included consecutive thirty-one patients with uncomplicated AMI and successful PTCA admitted to coronary care unit of a university hospital. Uncomplicated course was defined as absence of reinfarction, ischemia, VF/VT, repeated PTCA, and heart failure within first 72 hours. Incidence of death, reinfarction, VF/VT, need for revascularisation, and hospitalisation due to heart failure at 1, 6, and 12 months was compared with 56 randomly selected AMI patients with successful PTCA but longer hospitalisation. Average hospital stay was 4 days in early and 6.7 days in control group (p<0.05). Control group had more extensive coronary disease (54% two or more vessels vs. 28% in early discharge, p<0,05). During follow up, none of the early discharged patients died, the only observed event was repeat PTCA due to angina pectoris. In the control group, mortality at 12 months was 3.5% (p<0.05). Cumulative 12 month event free survival was 96% in early discharge group and 87% in control group, but difference was not significant (p=0.15, Cox-Mantel test). Cost reduction of early discharge amounted to 1100 Euro per patient. In conclusions, our study confirmed that for a selected population of patients with AMI, successful PTCA, and uncomplicated clinical course during first 72 hours, discharge as early as three days following the admission is safe.
Benefit of antibiotic therapy on pouchitis after ileal pouch anal anastomosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Elahi Behzad , Nikfar Shekoufeh , Derakhshani Saeed , Vafaie Mohammad , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: February 2009

The aim of the study was to evaluate and collect current evidence on the effect of antibiotics in pretreatment of pouchitis after restorative ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA). Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were searched between 1966 and July 2008; and relevant clinical trials extracted, reviewed, and validated according to the study protocol. The outcome of interest was clinical improvement after treatment. Nine randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials were found relevant and studied but 3 of them with 70 patients were entered into meta-analysis. Pooling of the results from these trials yielded an odds ratio of 15.96 with a 95% CI of 4.20–60.70, indicating a significant OR (p<0.0001) in treatment group in comparison to the placebo group. In conclusion, the meta-analysis confirms benefit of antibiotics in management of pouchitis after IPAA operation.
An evaluation of a new approach to the regeneration of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don, and the molecular characterization of the variation among sets of differently derived regenerants
Authors: Perrini Rosaria , Alba Vittorio , Ruta Claudia , Morone-Fortunato Irene , Blanco Antonio , Montemurro Cinzia
Published: February 2009

A protocol for the induction of regeneration from leaves of Helichrysum italicum was established. Calli were found to form on the basal medium only when it was supplemented with thidiazuron (TDZ) alone or in combination with naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), with a percentage ranking of at least 80%. The hormone-free medium showed the highest percentage of shoot regeneration (62%) even though no callus formed. AFLP markers were employed to verify tissue culture-induced variation in the regenerated plantlets obtained by direct shoot regeneration or the indirect shoot regeneration process (callus formation). Seven out of the eleven AFLP primer pairs yielded polymorphic patterns. The average number of fragments per primer pair was 64.1. Singletons were represented by 12 (2.7%) fragments. Student’s T-test was performed both on the average number of shared fragments and on the nucleotide diversity, and no significant statistical difference was observed between the two regeneration treatments.
Detection of Seagrass Distribution Changes from 1991 to 2006 in Xincun Bay, Hainan, with Satellite Remote Sensing
Authors: Yang Dingtian , Yang Chaoyu
Published: February 2009

Seagrass distribution is a very important index for costal management and protection. Seagrass distribution changes can be used as indexes to analyze the reasons for the changes. In this paper, in situ hyperspectral observation and satellite images of QuickBird, CBERS (China Brazil Earth Resources Satellite data) and Landsat data were used to retrieve bio-optical models and seagrass (Enhalus acoroides,Thalassia hemperichii) distribution in Xincun Bay, Hainan province, and seagrass distribution changes from 1991 to 2006 were analyzed. Hyperspectral results showed that the spectral bands at 555, 635, 650 and 675 nm are sensitive to leaf area index (LAI). Seagrass detection with QuickBird was more accurate than that with Landsat TM and CBERS; five classes could be classified clearly and used as correction for seagrass remote sensing data from Landsat TM and CBERS. In order to better describe seagrass distribution changes, the seagrass distribution area was divided as three regions: region A connected with region B in 1991, however it separated in 1999 and was wholly separated in 2001; seagrass in region C shrank gradually and could not be detected in 2006. Analysis of the reasons for seagrass reduction indicated it was mainly affected by aquaculture and typhoons and in recent years, by land use changes.
Rhodotorula mucilaginosa as a cause of persistent femoral nonunion
Authors: Goyal R , Das S , Arora A , Aggarwal A
Published: February 2009

We present a case of postoperative infection which presented as nonunion fracture femur in a 30-year-old man due to Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. This is the first report of Rhodotorula infection in a patient with fracture nonunion. The patient underwent repeated surgical debridement and received intensive antibiotic therapy before the diagnosis was made. The diagnosis could have been made earlier if the fungal etiology had been suspected earlier. Early suspicion and diagnosis of infection with atypical yeasts could be under-reported because of difficulties in accurate diagnosis and a tendency of attributing isolates to specimen contamination.
Ramelteon
Authors: Devi V , Shankar PK
Published: February 2009

Ramelteon is a novel MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptor selective agonist recently approved for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty in sleep onset. It is a nonscheduled drug since it lacks the potential for abuse and does not interact with neurotransmitter receptors most associated with these phenomena. Although the effects of ramelteon use <5 weeks are unknown, the available data confirms its safety and efficacy for short-term use. Clinical use and future research should uncover more information about ramelteon's properties.
Present status of understanding on the genetic etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Dasgupta S , Reddy Mohan B
Published: February 2009

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age with a prevalence of approximately 7-10% worldwide. PCOS reflects multiple potential aetiologies and variable clinical manifestations. This syndrome is characterized by serious health implications such as diabetes, coronary heart diseases and cancer and also leads to infertility. PCOS can be viewed as a heterogeneous androgen excess disorder with varying degrees of reproductive and metabolic abnormalities determined by the interaction of multiple genetic and environmental factors. In this paper, we have attempted a comprehensive review of primarily molecular genetic studies done so far on PCOS. We have also covered the studies focusing on the environmental factors and impact of ethnicity on the presentation of this syndrome. A large number of studies have been attempted to understand the aetiological mechanisms behind PCOS both at the clinical and molecular genetic levels. In the Indian context, majority of the PCOS studies have been confined to the clinical dimensions. However, a concrete genetic mechanism behind the manifestation of PCOS is yet to be ascertained. Understanding of this complex disorder requires comprehensive studies incorporating relatively larger homogenous samples for genetic analysis and taking into account the ethnicity and the environmental conditions of the population/cohort under study. Research focused on these aspects may provide better understanding on the genetic etiology and the interaction between genes and environment, which may help develop new treatment methods and possible prevention of the syndrome.
Emerging extra-intestinal infections with Aeromonas hydrophila in coastal region of southern Karnataka
Authors: Mukhopadhyay C , Chawla K , Sharma Y , Bairy I
Published: February 2009

Background:

Aeromonas species are gram-negative rods usually isolated from the gastrointestinal tract. They have been occasionally reported as a cause of extra-intestinal infections such as cellulitis, cholangitis, necrotizing fascitis, meningitis, bacteremia, or peritonitis in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Aim: To determine the role and possible pathogenesis of Aeromonas in extra-intestinal infections.Settings and Design: Retrospective analysis carried out at Kasturba Hospital Manipal, Karnataka in the months of January and February 2007.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical manifestations and management of eight cases of extra-intestinal infections caused by A. hydrophila, from the south Karnataka coastal region were reviewed. The isolates were identified with the help of biochemical tests using standard guidelines.Results: All patients acquiredAeromonas infections in the community. Five (62.5%) had underlying illnesses, such as liver disease, diabetes mellitus or malignancy. Five (62.5%) had polymicrobial infections, and three (37.5%) were complicated with bacteremia. These included three patients with ulcers or abscess over the lower leg, two with cellulitis due to snake bite and one each with pelvic inflammatory disease, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and pneumonia. A. hydrophila was found to be a causative agent of pelvic inflammatory disease or cellulitis following sea snake bite, and such a clinical scenario has not been previously described. Seven patients survived the illness.

Conclusions:

Isolation of A. hydrophila from extra-intestinal specimens demands utmost clinical and microbiological vigilance in diagnosis, since the organism can cause serious infections among immunocompromised as well as immunocompetent individuals.
Massive upper GI bleeding
Authors: Haas I , Gutman M , Paran H
Published: February 2009

Bleeding from a Zenker's diverticulum is rare. A 71-year-old man was urgently admitted with massive hematemesis. It was known that he had a Zenker's diverticulum, but on emergency endoscopy, the source of bleeding was not detected due to large blood clots in the esophagus, hypo-pharynx and also into the tracheal-bronchial tree. Computerized tomography angiography demonstrated a blush of intravenous contrast arising from the diverticulum. The patient was operated upon urgently; the diverticle had a deep ulceration which was the source of the bleeding. The cause of the ulceration is unknown but it is possible that it was caused by the direct effect of an aspirin pill within the diverticle. A similar case with the same conclusion has been published in the past and since the use of aspirin has become common, especially in the elder population, we present this case report to highlight this possible life-threatening complication of Zenker's diverticulum in patients receiving aspirin.
Primary gastrointestinal mucormycosis in an immunocompetent person
Authors: Shiva Prasad BN , Shenoy A , Nataraj KS
Published: February 2009

In the past decade, mucormycosis has emerged as an important lethal infection in diabetics and other immunocompromised hosts. Rhinosinusitis, pansinusitis, rhino-orbital and rhinocerebral are the common classical manifestations of mucormycosis. However, primary gastrointestinal (GI) mucormycosis is an uncommon disease associated with a high mortality rate. Stomach is the most common site involved in GI mucormycosis. Reported cases of GI mucormycosis in an immunocompetent host are very few in the literature. Here we present a case of a young male with fungal sepsis secondary to GI mucormycosis in an immunocompetent person.
International Classification of Diseases Coding for Inflammatory Arthritides
Authors: Zhu Justin R. , Galivanche Anoop R. , Gouzoulis Michael J. , Kammien Alexander J. , Gillinov Stephen M. , Jayaram Rahul H. , Grauer Jonathan N.
Published: April 2024

This quality improvement study investigates usage patterns of codes for inflammatory arthritides under International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision vs International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision.
Policy Priorities in Cancer Care for Transgender People
Authors: Smart Alicia C. , Yunes Michael J. , Winkfield Karen M.
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint calls for health care systems, oncologists, and staff to prioritize and adopt policies that are inclusive and respectful of transgender patients with cancer.
Mott–Schottky Barrier Enabling High‐Performance Hydrazine‐Assisted Hydrogen Generation at Ampere‐Level Current Densities
Authors: Huang Yaping , Zhang Xia , Li Linfeng , Humayun Muhammad , Zhang Huaming , Xu Xuefei , Anthony Savarimuthu Philip , Chen Zhenhua , Zeng Jianrong , Shtansky Dmitry V. , Huo Kaifu , Song Haisheng , Wang Chundong , Zhang Wenjun
Published: April 2024

Local electron density manipulation can optimize the adsorption and desorption nature of catalysts leading to enhanced catalytic activity for water oxidation. Construction a Mott–Schottky barrier allows the electron transition in catalysts because of their different Fermi levels. Herein, a Pt@NiFc‐MOF Mott–Schottky heterojunction is constructed, in which electrons are transferred from NiFc‐MOF to Pt as triggered by the formed built‐in electric field at the interface. The as‐prepared Pt@NiFc‐MOF reveals exceptional performance toward the hydrazine oxidation reaction (HzOR), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and overall hydrazine splitting (OHzS) at ampere‐level current densities. The advanced nature of the configured Mott–Schottky heterojunction can also be further evidenced from a concept direct liquid N2H4/H2O2 fuel cell (Pt@NiFc‐MOF//Pt Net), yielding a maximum power density of 415.2 mW cm‒2 at 80°C and can work stably for 190 h at 500 mA cm‒2 (at 25°C). One more function of Pt@NiFc‐MOF is clarified as well, that is it can purify hydrazine‐rich wastewater from 718 to 6 ppb (less than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of 10 ppb) in 120 min at 500 mA cm‒2. This work represents a breakthrough in interface engineering of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) toward industry‐level hydrogen generation and its beyond.
MicroRNA‐Modified DNA Hexahedron‐Induced Hepatocyte‐Like Cells Integrating 3D Printed Scaffold for Acute Liver Failure Therapy
Authors: Xue Tiantian , Wei Hongyan , Li Fenfang , Zhang Yixin , Jin Yuanyuan , Xu Yanteng , Chan Hon Fai , Xu Yingying , Li Yin‐Xiong , Li Mingqiang , Tao Yu
Published: April 2024

Acute liver failure (ALF) involves extensive necrosis of liver cells and severe impairment of liver function. Hepatocyte transplantation holds promise for treating ALF by swiftly supporting liver functions and promoting liver regeneration. However, the scarcity of suitable cell sources requires strategies to obtain enough functional hepatocyte‐like cells (HLCs) and optimize their in vivo transplantation efficiency. A DNA hexahedral nanostructure (DHN) is developed loaded with microRNA‐122 to efficiently induce hepatic differentiation of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells into HLCs. These HLCs can serve as alternative hepatocyte sources, as confirmed by expression of liver‐specific genes and proteins, and the restoration of liver functions. To enhance in vivo survival efficiency of HLCs, a versatile scaffold is also created by 3D printing the calcium‐cross‐linked mixture bioink composed of sodium alginate, gelatin, and silk fibroin with excellent ROS scavenging capabilities. The scaffold is infused with chitosan‐DHN hydrogel containing HLCs for tissue engineering orthotopic transplantation in CCl4‐induced ALF mice. The transplanted composite scaffold‐HLCs successfully repair tissue necrosis in the liver injury area of mice and regulate expressions of genes and proteins associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and hepatocyte function. Collectively, this study offers a novel approach and strategy for identifying alternative hepatocyte sources and treating ALF.
Insight Into Designing High‐Performance Polythiophenes for Reduced Urbach Energy and Nonradiative Recombination in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Zhe , Ma Hayoung , Yang Sangjin , Cho Yongjoon , Lee Seunglok , Park Jaeyeong , Mai Thi Le Huyen , Kim Wonjun , Jeong Seonghun , Kim Seoyoung , Yang Changduk
Published: April 2024

In the pursuit of high‐efficiency polythiophene (PT) organic solar cells (OSCs), a critical challenge is the reduction of nonradiative recombination. This study comprehensively explores polydithienylthiazolothiazole (PTTz)‐based PT terpolymers: PTTz‐Tz and PTTz‐TzT, in which it is demonstrate that molecular structure alterations greatly influence the aggregation kinetics and orientation of these polymers. Specifically, PTTz‐TzT achieves rapid ordering aggregation during spin coating, effectively suppressing excessive polymer aggregation and facilitating appropriate phase separation upon mixing with the acceptor. Meanwhile, PTTz‐TzT inherently adopts a face‐on orientation, resulting in more structured π–π stacking in the vertical direction after acceptor integration, compared to the intrinsic edge‐on orientation of PTTz‐Tz. These factors collectively contribute to lower Urbach energy and a substantial reduction of nonradiative recombination in PTTz‐TzT‐based OSCs, culminating in a high photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) exceeding 16%. Furthermore, a prominent PCE of 19.11% is obtained by PTTz‐TzT via ternary blend strategy, which is among the highest values reported for the OSCs. This investigation underscores the significance of aggregation kinetics and orientation in PT‐based polymers, especially regarding Urbach energy and nonradiative recombination, and offers novel insights for designing high‐performance polythiophene donors.
Room Temperature Polariton Condensation from Whispering Gallery Modes in CsPbBr3 Microplatelets
Authors: Polimeno Laura , Coriolano Annalisa , Mastria Rosanna , Todisco Francesco , De Giorgi Milena , Fieramosca Antonio , Pugliese Marco , Prontera Carmela T. , Rizzo Aurora , De Marco Luisa , Ballarini Dario , Gigli Giuseppe , Sanvitto Daniele
Published: April 2024

Room temperature (RT) polariton condensate holds exceptional promise for revolutionizing various fields of science and technology, encompassing optoelectronics devices to quantum information processing. Using perovskite materials, like all‐inorganic cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) single crystal, provides additional advantages, such as ease of synthesis, cost‐effectiveness, and compatibility with existing semiconductor technologies. In this work, the formation of whispering gallery modes (WGM) in CsPbBr3 single crystals with controlled geometry is shown, synthesized using a low‐cost and efficient capillary bridge method. Through the implementation of microplatelets geometry, enhanced optical properties and performance are achieved due to the presence of sharp edges and a uniform surface, effectively avoiding non‐radiative scattering losses caused by defects. This allows not only to observe strong light matter coupling and formation of whispering gallery polaritons, but also to demonstrate the onset of polariton condensation at RT. This investigation not only contributes to the advancement of the knowledge concerning the exceptional optical properties of perovskite‐based polariton systems, but also unveils prospects for the exploration of WGM polariton condensation within the framework of a 3D perovskite‐based platform, working at RT. The unique characteristics of polariton condensate, including low excitation thresholds and ultrafast dynamics, open up unique opportunities for advancements in photonics and optoelectronics devices.
A Versatile Synthesis Platform Based on Polymer Cubosomes for a Library of Highly Ordered Nanoporous Metal Oxides Particles
Authors: Xie Wenhe , Huang Xinyu , Zhu Chengcheng , Jiang Fengluan , Deng Yu , Yu Bingjie , Wu Limin , Yue Qin , Deng Yonghui
Published: April 2024

Polymer cubosomes (PCs) have well‐defined inverse bicontinuous cubic mesophases formed by amphiphilic block copolymer bilayers. The open hydrophilic channels, large periods, and robust physical properties of PCs are advantageous to many host–guest interactions and yet not fully exploited, especially in the fields of functional nanomaterials. Here, the self‐assembly of poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐polystyrene block copolymers is systematically investigated and a series of robust PCs is developed via a cosolvent method. Ordered nanoporous metal oxide particles are obtained by selectively filling the hydrophilic channels of PCs via an impregnation strategy, followed by a two‐step thermal treatment. Based on this versatile PC platform, the general synthesis of a library of ordered porous particles with different pore structures , tunable large pore size (18–78 nm), high specific surface areas (up to 123.3 m2 g−1 for WO3) and diverse framework compositions, such as transition and non‐transition metal oxides, rare earth chloride oxides, perovskite, pyrochlore, and high‐entropy metal oxides is demonstrated. As typical materials obtained via this method, ordered porous WO3 particles have the advantages of open continuous structure and semiconducting properties, thus showing superior gas sensing performances toward hydrogen sulfide.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps‐Inhibiting and Fouling‐Resistant Polysulfoxides Potently Prevent Postoperative Adhesion, Tumor Recurrence, and Metastasis
Authors: Wang Jiafeng , Wang Yechun , Li Junjun , Ying Jiajia , Mu Yongli , Zhang Xuanhao , Zhou Xuefei , Sun Leimin , Jiang Haiping , Zhuo Wei , Shen Youqing , Zhou Tianhua , Liu Xiangrui , Zhou Quan
Published: April 2024

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is considered one of the most dreaded forms of cancer metastases for both patients and physicians. Aggressive cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is the primary treatment for peritoneal metastasis. Unfortunately, this intensive treatment frequently causes clinical complications, such as postoperative recurrence, metastasis, and adhesion formation. Emerging evidence suggests that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) released by inflammatory neutrophils contribute to these complications. Effective NET‐targeting strategies thus show considerable potential in counteracting these complications but remain challenging. Here, one type of sulfoxide‐containing homopolymer, PMeSEA, with potent fouling‐resistant and NET‐inhibiting capabilities, is synthesized and screened. Hydrating sulfoxide groups endow PMeSEA with superior nonfouling ability, significantly inhibiting protein/cell adhesion. Besides, the polysulfoxides can be selectively oxidized by ClO− which is required to stabilize the NETs rather than H2O2, and ClO− scavenging effectively inhibits NETs formation without disturbing redox homeostasis in tumor cells and quiescent neutrophils. As a result, PMeSEA potently prevents postoperative adhesions, significantly suppresses peritoneal metastasis, and shows synergetic antitumor activity with chemotherapeutic 5‐Fluorouracil. Moreover, coupling CRS with PMeSEA potently inhibits CRS‐induced tumor metastatic relapse and postoperative adhesions. Notably, PMeSEA exhibits low in vivo acute and subacute toxicities, implying significant potential for clinical postoperative adjuvant treatment.
Symmetry Evolution Induced 2D Pt Single Atom Catalyst with High Density for Alkaline Hydrogen Oxidation
Authors: Zhang Haoran , Wu Feng , Huang Rui , Liu Xiaokang , Zhang Zhiwen , Yao Tao , Zhang Yu , Wu Yuen
Published: April 2024

The performance of single‐atom catalysts is greatly influenced by the chemical environment surrounding the central atom. Here, a salt‐assisted method is employed to transform the tetrahedral coordination structure of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks ‐ 8 (ZIF‐8) into a planar square coordination structure without altering the ligands. During the subsequent carbonization process, concurrent with the evaporation of zinc atoms, the structure of the nitrogen and carbon carriers (NC carriers) undergoes a transition from five‐membered rings to six‐membered rings to preserve the 2D structure. This transition results in the generation of additional defect sites on the 2D‐NC substrates. Hence, the Pt single‐atom catalysts with planar square coordination symmetries can be precisely prepared via electrodeposition (denoted as 2D‐Pt SAC). The Pt loading of 2D‐Pt SAC is 0.49 ± 0.03 µg cm−2, higher than that of 3D‐Pt SAC (0.37 ± 0.04 µg cm−2). In the context of the hydrogen oxidation reaction electrocatalysis, under an overpotential of 50 mV, these single‐atom catalysts with 2D coordination exhibit mass activities of 2396 A gPt−1 (32 times higher than commercial Pt/C catalyst, 2 times higher than 3D‐PtNC).
Sustainable Thermal Regulation of Electronics via Mitigated Supercooling of Porous Gallium‐Based Phase Change Materials
Authors: Ki Seokkan , Shin Seongjong , Cho Sumin , Bang Soosik , Choi Dongwhi , Nam Youngsuk
Published: April 2024

Gallium liquid metal is one of the promising phase change materials for passive thermal management of electronics due to their high thermal conductivity and latent heat per volume. However, it suffers from severe supercooling, in which molten gallium does not return to solid due to the lack of nucleation. It may require 28.2 °C lower temperature than the original freezing point to address supercooling, leading to unstable thermal regulation performance along fluctuations of cooling condition. Here, gallium is infused into porous copper in an oxide‐free environment, forming intermetallic compound impurities at the interfaces to reduce the activation energy for heterogeneous nucleation. The porous‐shaped gallium provides ≈63% smaller supercooling than that of the bulk type due to large specific surface area (≈9,070 cm2 per cm3) and high wetting characteristics (≈16° of contact angle) on CuGa2 intermetallic layer. During repetitive heating‐cooling cycles, porous‐shaped gallium consistently shows propagation of crystallization at even near room temperature (≈25 °C) while maintaining stable performance as thermal buffer, whereas droplet‐shaped gallium is gradually degraded due to partial‐supercooled state. The findings will improve the responsive thermal regulation performance to relieve a rapid increase in temperature of semiconductors/batteries, and also have a potential for energy storage applications.