bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of different head‐neck positions on vertical ground reaction forces, linear and time parameters in the unridden horse walking and trotting on a treadmill
Authors: Waldern N. M. , Wiestner T. , von Peinen K. , Álvarez C. G. Gómez , Roepstorff L. , Johnston C. , Meyer H. , Weishaupt M. A.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: It is believed that the head‐neck position (HNP) has specific effects on the loading pattern of the equine locomotor system, but very few quantitative data are available.

Objective: To quantify the effects of 6 different HNPs on forelimb‐hindlimb loading and underlying temporal changes.

Methods: Vertical ground reaction forces of each limb and interlimb coordination were measured in 7 high level dressage horses walking and trotting on an instrumented treadmill in 6 predetermined HNPs:HNP1‐ unrestrained;HNP2‐ elevated neck, bridge of the nose in front of the vertical;HNP3‐ elevated neck, bridge of the nose behind the vertical;HNP4‐ low and flexed neck;HNP5‐ head and neck in extreme high position; andHNP6‐ forward downward extension of head and neck.HNP1served as a velocity‐matched control.

Results: At the walk, the percentage of vertical stride impulse carried by the forehand (Izfore) as well as stride length and overreach distance were decreased inHNP2, HNP3, HNP4andHNP5when compared toHNP1.At the trot, Izforewas decreased inHNP2, HNP3, HNP4andHNP5.Peak forces in the forelimbs increased inHNP5and decreased inHNP6.Stance duration in the forelimbs was decreased inHNP2andHNP5.Suspension duration was increased inHNP2, HNP3andHNP5.Overreach distance was shorter inHNP4and longer inHNP6.

Conclusions: In comparison toHNP1andHNP6, HNPs with elevation of the neck with either flexion or extension at the poll as well as a low and flexed head and neck lead to a weight shift from the forehand to the hindquarters.HNP5had the biggest effect on limb timing and load distribution. At the trot, shortening of forelimb stance duration inHNP5increased peak vertical forces although Izforedecreased.

Potential relevance: Presented results contribute to the understanding of the value of certain HNPs in horse training.
Use of a 3D dynamometric horseshoe to assess the effects of an all‐weather waxed track and a crushed sand track at high speed trot: Preliminary study
Authors: Robin D. , Chateau H. , Pacquet L. , Falala S. , Valette J.‐P. , Pourcelot P. , Ravary B. , Denoix J.‐M. , Crevier‐Denoix N.
Published: February 2009

Reasons for performing study: Track surface quality is considered a risk factor of musculoskeletal injuries. Ground reaction force (GRF) measurement is a relevant approach to study the interaction between the hoof and the ground. Force plates are not adapted to compare different surfaces at high speed. A 3D dynamometric horseshoe (DHS), using 4 triaxial piezoelectric sensors, has been developed and validated.

Objectives: To use the DHS to compare the effects of 2 track surfaces, an all‐weather waxed track and a crushed sand track, on the GRF in trotter horses under training conditions.

Methods: The right forelimb of 3 French Trotters was equipped with the DHS. Two tracks were tested in a straight line: a crushed sand track (S) and an all‐weather waxed track (W). For each session, trials were repeated 3 times in a Latin square design. The speed of the runs was set at 10 m/s and recorded synchronously. For each trial, data acquisition was performed at 600 Hz and 10 consecutive strides were analysed. Statistical differences were tested using a general linear model procedure.

Results: The amplitude of the maximal longitudinal braking force (Fx) was significantly lower on W compared to S. This event happened about 6% later in the stance phase on W. The magnitude of the GRF at impact decreased on W. The average speed and the mean stance phase duration were not statistically different on both surfaces. The stride length was about 6 cm longer on S.

Conclusion and potential relevance: This study demonstrates the ability and sensitivity of the DHS to discriminate track surfaces by measuring the GRF at high speed. These preliminary results show that the loading rate, the amplitude of horizontal braking and shock at impact are attenuated on W, which suggests a reduction of stresses in the distal limb.
Use of standing low‐field magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose middle phalanx bone marrow lesions in horses
Authors: Olive J. , Mair T. S. , Charles B.
Published: February 2009

Bone marrow lesions (BMLs) (also known as ‘bone bruises’, ‘bone oedema’, ‘bone contusions’ and ‘occult fractures’) within the middle phalanx were diagnosed by standing low field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 7 horses. The lesions were characterised by low signal intensity on T1‐ and T2*‐weighted gradient echo sequences, mildly increased signal intensity on T2 fast spin echo sequences, and high signal intensity on short tau inversion recovery (STIR) sequences. Four distinct patterns of abnormal signal were identified: BML associated with osteoarthritis of either the proximal or distal interphalangeal joints; BML associated with soft tissue injury; BML associated with acute trauma; and BML unassociated with any other injury or lameness (assumed to represent bone response to biomechanical stress). Repeat MRI was undertaken in 4 cases. In most cases the BML resolved with rest and time, although lameness was persistent in 2 horses (one of which had an associated osteoarthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint).
Mega allantoic vesicles of the equine placenta
Authors: Singh K. , Holyoak G. R. , Snider T. A. , DeFrancisco A. L. , Schlafer D.
Published: February 2009

An ultrasound examination of a pregnant 12‐year‐old Palomino mare's abdomen revealed multiple, variably sized, round, polypoid, cystic structures within the allantois. These cystic areas had clear hypoechoic centres and were surrounded by thin, irregular hyperechoic regions. The foaling was unremarkable. Grossly, the allantois was multifocally expanded by variably sized, 1–15 cm diameter, balloon‐like allantoic vesicles containing clear watery or gelatinous fluid. Histological examination demonstrated marked separation of the allantoic surface from the chorionic surface by oedema fluid or gelatinous stroma. No other lesions were observed in the placenta. Similar lesions were observed in 2 other mares. No clinical complications were observed with the foals, fillies and mares after parturition. This is the first report of such large allantoic vesicles in the equine placenta.
Reframing Professional Development Through Understanding Authentic Professional Learning
Authors: Webster-Wright Ann
Published: February 2009

Continuing to learn is universally accepted and expected by professionals and other stakeholders across all professions. However, despite changes in response to research findings about how professionals learn, many professional development practices still focus on delivering content rather than enhancing learning. In exploring reasons for the continuation of didactic practices in professional development, this article critiques the usual conceptualization of professional development through a review of recent literature across professions. An alternative conceptualization is proposed, based on philosophical assumptions congruent with evidence about professional learning from seminal educational research of the past two decades. An argument is presented for a shift in discourse and focus from delivering and evaluating professional development programs to understanding and supporting authentic professional learning.
Study on the Effects of Temperature and Compatibilizer on the Interfacial Tension of PP/PA6 and PP/PET Pairs
Authors: Kiani A. , Garmabi H.
Published: February 2009

The interfacial tension (IFT) of Polypropylene/Polyamide6 (PP/PA6) and Polypropylene/Polyethylene terephthalate (PP/PET) pairs was evaluated as a function of temperature and Glycidyl Methacrylate grafted PP (PP-g-GMA) content, using the pendant drop method (PDM). PP-g-GMA was used as the compatibilizer in both systems. It was observed that IFT values of both systems showed a linear decrease with increasing temperature. Also, presence of a small amount of PP-g-GMA compatibilizer in the PP phase reduced the IFT of polymeric pairs dramatically, while adding more compatibilizer had no influence on IFT, due to the saturation of the interface. The saturation concentrations of GMA in the PP phase were obtained for 0.05 wt.% and 0.025 wt.% in PP/PA6 and PP/PET systems, respectively. The IFT values of compatibilized systems were reduced by 68% for PP/PA6 and 57% for PP/PET pairs compared to non-compatibilized ones.
Sparse Long-chain Branching's Effect on the Film-casting Behavior of PE
Authors: Seay C. W. , Baird D. G.
Published: February 2009

The degree of film-width reduction or necking during film-casting is analyzed for three metallocene-catalyzed linear low density polyethylenes, LLDPE, with varying degrees of sparse long-chain branching, LCB. The resins included three sparsely LCB polyethylene, PE, materials with varying LCB content ranging from linear to 0.57 LCB/10000 CH2 along with a Ziegler-Natta polymerized LLDPE and a tubular free-radical polymerized low density polyethylene, LDPE. The last two resins are used as reference materials. The primary objective of this analysis is to evaluate whether uniaxial extensional rheological characteristics, in particular strain-hardening, that are a result of LCB influence the film-necking properties. At the lowest drawdown ratio, necking is observed to be reduced with increasing LCB, and thus strain-hardening characteristics. At the higher drawdown ratios it is observed that LCB no longer reduces necking and the curves merge to the results found for linear PE, except in the case of LDPE, which shows reduced necking at all drawdown ratios. Furthermore, comparisons of film necking are also made to separate the effects of molecular weight distribution, MWD, and LCB. The results indicate that both broadening the MWD and the addition of sparse LCB reduce the degree of necking, but to a lesser degree in the case of broadening the MWD. Analysis of the uniaxial extensional and dynamic shear rheology with the pom-pom constitutive model reveals that a distribution of branches along shorter relaxation time modes is important in reducing necking at higher drawdown ratios. Factors such as shear viscosity effects, extrudate swell, and non-isothermal behavior were eliminated as contributing factors.
Effects of Extrusion Variables on Organoclay Intercalation and Properties of Tapioca Starch-Poly(Lactic Acid) Nanocomposite Foams
Authors: Lee S. Y. , Eskridge K. M. , Hanna M. A.
Published: February 2009

Tapioca starch (TS) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA), in 90:10 weight ratio, were blended with 3% Cloisite 10A were and prepared by a twin screw extruder. Screw speed, screw configuration, die nozzle diameter and moisture content were varied to determine their effects on organoclay intercalation. Selected structural, thermal, physical and mechanical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and Instron universal testing machine. The first (X-ray) diffraction peak was observed to shift to a lower angle compared to that of pristine Cloisite 10A. The first diffraction peaks for the nanocomposites were narrow, indicating a strong intercalated behavior. These results were observed for all extrusion variables using mixing and compression screws, screw speeds of 100, 135 and 175 min–1; moisture contents of 14, 17 and 20%, and die nozzle diameters of 3 and 4 mm. These extrusion variables had significant effects on the structural, thermal, physical and mechanical properties, and glass transition and melting temperatures of TS/PLA/Cloisite 10A nanocomposite foams due to the intercalation of organoclay.
Phase Separation under Shear in Liquid Crystalline Polymer/Polycarbonate Blends
Authors: Lee K.-W. , Kamal M. R. , Chan P. K.
Published: February 2009

The effect of low steady shear rates on the phase diagram and phase-separated morphology of liquid crystalline polymer (LCP)/polycarbonate (PC) blends was studied. Experiments were carried out with polarized light microscopy in conjunction with a shear stage for directly monitoring the phase separation behavior of the blends. Phase separation temperatures under shear flow were lower than those observed under quiescent conditions. Consequently, the phase diagram of the blend was shifted to a lower position, relative to the phase diagram obtained under quiescent conditions. The temporal morphological development of phase separation in the blends was also affected by the shear. Phase-separated structures were monitored, with and without shear, in blends containing 50 wt.% LCP. Results showed that the speed and amount of phase separation increased when shear was applied. The results indicate that these blends undergo shear-enhanced phase separation at low steady shear rates.
Heme Oxygenase-1 Inhibits Pro-Oxidant Induced Hypertrophy in HL-1 Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Brunt Keith R. , Tsuji Matthew R. , Lai Joyce H. , Kinobe Robert T. , Durante William , Claycomb William C. , Ward Christopher A. , Melo Luis G.
Published: February 2009

Aims: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) activate multiple signaling pathways involved in cardiac hypertrophy. Since HO-1 exerts potent antioxidant effects, we hypothesized that this enzyme inhibits ROS-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Methods: HL-1 cardiomyocytes were transduced with an adenovirus constitutively expressing HO-1 (AdHO-1) to increase basal HO-1 expression and then exposed to 200 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Hypertrophy was measured using 3H-leucine incorporation, planar morphometry and cell-size by forward-scatter flow-cytometry. The pro-oxidant effect of H2O2 was assessed by redox sensitive fluorophores. Inducing intracellular redox imbalance resulted in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy through transactivation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Results: Pre-emptive HO-1 overexpression attenuated the redox imbalance and reduced hypertrophic indices. This is the first time that HO-1 has directly been shown to inhibit oxidant-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by a NF-κB–dependent mechanism. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that HO-1 inhibits pro-oxidant induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and suggest that HO-1 may yield therapeutic potential in treatment of
Involvement of Caspase-3 Activity and Survivin Downregulation in Cinobufocini-Induced Apoptosis in A 549 Cells
Authors: Wang Juyong , Jin Ye , Xu Zhenye , Zheng Zhan , Wan Su
Published: February 2009

Cinobufocini injection is a preparation containing water-soluble components of the toad skin. The aim of the present study was to investigate the apoptosis of human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A 549 induced by cinobufocini. A 549 or HLF-1(human lung fibroblast) cells were treated with cinobufocini at different concentrations for 24 and 48 h, respectively. The proliferation of cells was detected with the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Morphology of cells was carried out with scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and Hoechst 33258 staining. The apoptosis rate was examined by flow cytometry. The expression of survivin was examined with RT-PCR and Western blot assay. The caspase-3 and caspase-7 activities were detected with caspase colorimetric protease assay. We found that cinobufocini significantly inhibited tumor growth of A 549 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner without damaging non-cancerous cells (HLF-1) and induced granular apoptotic bodies of A 549 cells. Next, cinobufocini increased the percentage of cells in G1 phase and decreased the percentage of cells in S phase in A 549 cells. Furthermore, cinobufocini downregulated the expression of survivin mRNA and protein. Finally, cinobufocini upregulated caspase-3 activity. We concluded that cinobufocini induces apoptosis of A 549 cells, which is associated with the decreasing expression of survivin mRNA and protein, increasing caspase-3 activity of A 549 cells.
Transplantation of Sertoli-Islet Cell Aggregates Formed by Microgravity: Prolonged Survival in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Han Xiaoming , Qiu Liyuan , Zhang Ye , Kong Qingxue , Wang Hong , Wang Haibin , Li Hongbo , Duan Cuimi , Wang Yanmeng , Song Ying , Wang Changyong
Published: February 2009

Transplantation of pancreatic islets is a potentially attractive treatment for type I diabetes. We generated the transplantable, tissue-like aggregates composed of Sertoli cells and islets in rotating wall vessel bioreactors, SICA (Sertoli-islet cell aggregates), to improve their biological function in vitro and in vivo. The isolated islet equivalent and Sertoli cells were purified from Wistar rats and cocultured for 5 days in bioreactor to generate SICA. The SICA, islets aggregates, and fresh isolated islets were transplanted under the kidney capsule of diabetic Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, respectively. The functions of different grafts were ascertained by blood glucose level measurements and an in vivo glucose tolerance test. In response to elevated glucose, insulin secretion from SICA was 1.4-fold higher ( P < 0.05, n = 5) than islet aggregates cultured alone. Of the rats that received SICA, 90% (9/10) remained normoglycemic at 60 days post-transplantation, and the survival significantly increased compared with recipients bearing homotypic islets aggregates or freshly isolated islets. The former responded similarly with healthy rats to the glucose tolerance test. Our results support the usefulness of SICA for the treatment of type 1 diabetes without any immunosuppressive agents.
Hospitality Lessons: Learning the Shared Language of Derrida and the Balga Bedouin
Authors: SHRYOCK ANDREW
Published: February 2009

This essay explores thematic overlaps in Jacques Derrida's writings on hospitality and stories of hospitality told by Balga Bedouin in Jordan. Why do these overlaps exist? What produces them? What can these likenesses tell us about the relationship between hospitality, politics and moral reasoning? Juxtaposing an exemplary Jordanian tale of hospitality with motifs and claims central to Derrida's work, I argue that a shared and second language pervades this material. The language in question grows out of real historical relations, but it is also rooted in a desire, keenly felt among metropolitan political theorists and Bedouin social philosophers alike, to locate human interaction in idealized spaces that transcend the political and moral systems in which we live. Playing on contradictory themes of welcome and trespass, hospitality is a rich medium in which to imagine worlds that are more open, and more vulnerable, to Others.
Hospitable Harems? A European Woman and Oriental Spaces in the Enlightenment
Authors: STILL JUDITH
Published: February 2009

This is an analysis of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu's Turkish Embassy Letters, first written in the early eighteenth century when she travelled to the Ottoman Empire, and finally ‘published’ in 1763. As well as producing ‘the very first example of a secular work by a woman about the Muslim Orient’, Montagu is a pioneer in introducing the Turkish women's practice of inoculation against smallpox into England. This article sets out the long-standing critical debate over the rights and wrongs of the Letters, particularly focusing on the period since the 1970s when feminist and post-colonial readings have presented or questioned Montagu's credentials with respect to the politics of sex, sexuality, race, religion and class. It concludes that Montagu describes how she is received with considerable, if conditional, hospitality by Turkish women in their bagnio and ‘harems’, and that her writing is, in turn, conditionally hospitable towards them. She is explicitly concerned not to fall into the Orientalizing clichés of Early Modern men's travel writing, which typically represents Muslim women as imprisoned in harems, enslaved, starved of sex and sexually voracious. By careful consideration of the historical, political and social context of the societies which Montagu knew, and could make comparison between, a modern reader too can act hospitably in taking Montagu's narrative into her own.
An Iron Age burial from Swainbost, Isle of Lewis
Authors: R. J. DUFFY PAUL , MACGREGOR GAVIN , HUNTER FRASER
Published: February 2009

In May 2001, Glasgow University Archaeological Research Division (GUARD) undertook an archaeological excavation at Swainbost, Isle of Lewis, under the provisions of the Historic Scotland Human Remains Call Off Contract, following the discovery of the partial remains of a coastally-eroded in-situ human burial. The remains were found to be from one individual, probably male, aged between 30 and 34 years at death with a slight deformity of the spine buried in a supine position in a flat-based grave. Several flat slabs present in the vicinity may have been the remains of a cist. An iron artefact, identified as a belt buckle, was recovered adjacent to the right side of the pelvis. A single radiocarbon date suggests the burial dates to 390–170 BC.
THE UNITARY, DEMOCRATIC STATE AND THE STRUGGLE AGAINST APARTHEID IN PALESTINE–ISRAEL
Authors: Hasan Dr Rumy
Published: February 2009

This paper utilises a comparison between Apartheid South Africa and Israel to argue that Israel, from its inception, has been an apartheid state, albeit different in form to the South African variety. The fundamental proposition is that only the dismantling of the Zionist legal code, the constitution and discriminatory state structures will ensure the end of apartheid in Palestine–Israel. The sine qua nonfor this is the creation of a single, unitary, democratic state. Accordingly, the goal of the Palestinian liberation struggle should decisively shift away from the 'two-state solution' in favour of a 'one-state solution'. To this end, six theses are presented.
Splenic rupture following idiopathic rupture of the urinary bladder presenting as acute abdomen
Authors: Jurisic D , Glavan E , Cugura JF , Vidovic D
Published: February 2009

Idiopathic rupture of the urinary bladder is an uncommon condition and represents less than 1% of all bladder rupture cases. In most of the cases the main etiological factor was heavy alcohol ingestion. A combined injury of the spleen and bladder is a very rare condition that is almost often associated with trauma and foreign bodies. In this paper we present the extremely rare clinical course of acute abdomen caused by a combined spontaneous intraperitoneal injury; spontaneous rupture of the urinary bladder and spleen. According to our opinion, spontaneous bladder rupture caused by bladder distension due to alcohol ingestion led to urinary ascites and abdominal distension. Finally, repeated minor abdominal blunt trauma during everyday life, to a moderately distended abdomen caused a spontaneous splenic rupture in the patient with abnormal coagulation studies.
Translation and validation of brief patient health questionnaire against DSM IV as a tool to diagnose major depressive disorder in Indian patients
Authors: Kochhar PH , Rajadhyaksha SS , Suvarna VR
Published: February 2009

Context:

Depression is frequently encountered in the primary care setting but is often unrecognized and hence untreated. There is a need for a uniform user-friendly screening instrument for depression for primary healthcare personnel in India.

Aims:

Translation and validation of the brief patient health questionnaire (BPHQ) as a screening tool for depression in major Indian languages.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective study conducted at 18 sites, in psychiatric and general clinics. The English version of the BPHQ was translated into 11 Indian languages. The translations were reviewed by experts and volunteers and proofread for the final translated BPHQ. The validation exercise included more than 3000 subjects. A psychiatrist and a psychiatry social worker / coordinator conducted the study under the supervision of the principal investigator. For each language, the presence or absence of major depressive disorder (MDD) as diagnosed with the help of a patient-completed BPHQ and the psychiatrist DSM-IV diagnosis was matched. The kappa coefficient was used as a measure of inter-observer agreement between the two diagnostic methods.

Results:

Seven languages failed the primary validation exercise. These translations were reviewed and the updated versions, after proofreading were re-run for validation. The self-administered BPHQ was successfully translated and validated for diagnosis of MDD against DSM-IV diagnosis made by a psychiatrist, in English, Hindi, Marathi, Oriya, Malayalam, Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Telugu, Bengali and Tamil.

Conclusions:

BPHQ is a simple, quick and reliable instrument, which facilitates rapid and accurate diagnosis of depression in the primary care setting in our country.
Severe nitrofurantoin lung disease resolving without the use of steroids
Authors: Bhullar S , Lele SM , Kraman S
Published: February 2009

We report a case of an elderly woman who developed a severe, chronic pulmonary reaction to nitrofurantoin therapy that she had taken continuously for three years to prevent urinary tract infections. The patient was taking no other drug known to cause lung disease but the diagnosis was delayed by failure to recognize the association between nitrofurantoin and adverse drug reactions affecting the lung. When originally seen, the patient was unable to care for herself due to dyspnea. Bronchoscopy with biopsy ruled out other causes of her pulmonary disease. Immediate withdrawal of nitrofurantoin led to substantial, sustained improvement and disappearance of symptoms over several months without administration of corticosteroids. Nitrofurantoin toxicity should always be considered in any person taking that drug who develops bilateral infiltrates.
Bilateral pleural effusions following central venous cannulation
Authors: Tan PL , Chan CLH
Published: February 2009

We describe a patient who developed bilateral pleural effusions as a delayed complication following central venous catheter insertion. Respiratory distress should not only raise the clinical suspicion of a pneumothorax but also of erosion and perforation of the central vein. The mechanism, diagnosis, management and prevention of this complication are discussed.
Adult mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Jackson L , Jones DR , Scotting P , Sottile V
Published: February 2009

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a population of multipotent cells found primarily in the bone marrow. They have long been known to be capable of osteogenic, adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation and are currently the subject of a number of trials to assess their potential use in the clinic. Recently, the plasticity of these cells has come under close scrutiny as it has been suggested that they may have a differentiation potential beyond the mesenchymal lineage. Myogenic and in particular cardiomyogenic potential has been shown in vitro. MSCs have also been shown to have the ability to form neural cells both in vitro and in vivo, although the molecular mechanisms underlying these apparent transdifferentiation events are yet to be elucidated. We describe here the cellular characteristics and differentiation potential of MSCs, which represent a promising stem cell population for future applications in regenerative medicine.
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Vignesh JP , Mohan V
Published: February 2009

In 1935, Stein and Leventhal first described the polycystic ovary (PCO) as a frequent cause of irregular ovulation in women seeking treatment for subfertility. Although the initial management was surgical with wedge resection of ovary, the availability of radioimmunoassay and increased clinical use of ultrasound made it clear that many women had the ultrasound characteristics of PCO with or without the biochemical or clinical features of PCOS and therefore that PCO were not associated with a single syndrome. The association between increased insulin resistance and PCOS is a consistent finding in all ethnic groups. Obesity is a common factor in the majority of women with PCOS. It is postulated that a woman may be genetically predisposed to developing PCOS but it is only the interaction of environmental factors (obesity) with the genetic factors that results in the characteristic metabolic and menstrual disturbances. Weight loss, altered diet and exercise have been shown to be effective in the management of PCOS. Importance of early recognition, proper intervention, long-term monitoring and health implications needs more concern.
Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody is not useful to differentiate between Crohn′s disease and intestinal tuberculosis in India
Authors: Ghoshal UC , Ghoshal U , Singh H , Tiwari S
Published: February 2009

Context:

Clinical, endoscopic, radiological and histological parameters of intestinal tuberculosis (IT) and Crohn's disease (CD) are so similar that differentiation between these two diseases, which require different treatment, is difficult. Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibody (ASCA), which is often present in the sera of patients with CD, may be potentially useful to differentiate CD from IT.

Aim:

To evaluate the role of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test for ASCA in serum in differentiating CD from intestinal tuberculosis.

Settings and Design:

Prospective case-control study. Materials and Methods: Sixteen patients with IT, 16 CD, 36 UC diagnosed using standard parameters and 12 controls (11 healthy subjects and one with colonic carcinoma) were tested for IgG ASCA in serum.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square test with Yates' correction, as applicable. Continuous variables were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test.

Results:

Eight of 16 (50%) patients with IT, 10 of 16 with CD (62%), nine of 35 with UC (26%) and one of 12 controls tested positive for ASCA in serum. Though the frequency of ASCA in serum was comparable among patients with IT and CD (8/16 vs. 10/16, P = ns), IT and UC (8/16 vs. 9/35, P =ns), CD and UC (10/16 vs. 9/35, P =ns), its frequency in CD or IT but not in UC was higher than healthy controls (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Serum ASCA is unlikely to be useful to differentiate between CD and IT in India.
Sedation in patients above 60 years of age undergoing urological surgery under spinal anesthesia
Authors: Yaddanapudi S , Batra Y K , Balagopal A , Nagdeve NG
Published: February 2009

Context:

Propofol and midazolam are commonly used sedatives during regional anesthesia in adults. Smaller doses of these drugs are required in older age due to altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

Aims:

To study the sedation, side-effects and the costs involved with smaller doses of propofol and midazolam in patients aged above 60 years during spinal anesthesia.

Settings and Design:

A randomized single-blind study was conducted in 60 ASA I-II patients aged ≥60 years undergoing urological surgery under spinal anesthesia.

Materials and Methods:

Sedation was administered after spinal anesthesia using propofol (bolus 0.4 mg/kg-1; infusion 3 mg/kg/hr) or midazolam (bolus 0.02 mg/kg; infusion 0.06 mg.kg-1/h-1) and titrated to achieve a sedation score of 3 on the modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation Scale. Perioperative sedation, hemodynamics and respiratory events were monitored.

Statistical Analysis:

The analysis for parametric data was done using Student's unpaired t test and the incidence data using Chi-square test.

Results:

The onset (13.0±4.2 vs. 18.8±4.2 min, P <0.001) and offset (8.9±2.8 vs. 12.5±3.5 min, P <0.001) of sedation were faster and the duration of adequate sedation longer (44.7±12.5 vs. 29.8±12.9% of total infusion time, P <0.001) with propofol than midazolam. More patients receiving propofol compared to midazolam had hypotension (16 [50%] vs.4 [14.3%], P= 0.003). Airway obstruction occurred frequently in both the groups. Sedation was significantly more expensive with propofol than midazolam (US$ 9.83 ± 2.80 vs. US$ 0.33 ± 0.06, P <0.001).

Conclusions:

Propofol provided better titration and adequacy of sedation than midazolam in patients above 60 years of age, but caused hypotension. Lighter sedation is recommended in this age group.
Great auricular nerve involvement in leprosy
Authors: Ramesh V , Jain RK , Avninder S
Published: February 2009

Three patients with neuritis of the great auricular nerve (GAN) have been reported. Two patients seen by physicians and an otolaryngologist had prominent and tender cord along the neck with facial edema and history of fainting attack in one, and erythema and hyperaesthesia of the ear in the other simulating vascular occlusion, which were confirmed to be leprosy in Type 1 reaction by the dermatologist. In the third, cold abscess in the nerve that had persisted after anti-leprosy treatment was mistaken as tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis by a surgeon since aspiration had revealed acid-fast bacilli. The probable reasons for misdiagnosis include rarity of involvement of the GAN and its proximity to main blood vessels, and the need for careful interpretation of laboratory results.
Recombination‐Limited Photocurrents in Low Bandgap Polymer/Fullerene Solar Cells
Authors: Lenes Martijn , Morana Mauro , Brabec Christoph J. , Blom Paul W. M.
Published: February 2009

The charge transport and photogeneration in solar cells based on the low bandgap‐conjugated polymer, poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta[2,1‐b; 3,4‐b′]dithiophene)‐alt‐4,7‐(2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole)] (PCPDTBT) and fullerenes is studied. The efficiency of the solar cells is limited by a relatively low fill factor, which contradicts the observed good and balanced charge transport in these blends. Intensity dependent measurements display a recombination limited photocurrent, characterized by a square root dependence on effective applied voltage, a linear dependence on light intensity and a constant saturation voltage. Numerical simulations show that the origin of the recombination limited photocurrent stems from the short lifetime of the bound electron‐hole pairs at the donor/acceptor interface.
The Enantioselective Addition of Alkyne Nucleophiles to Carbonyl Groups
Authors: Trost Barry M. , Weiss Andrew H.
Published: February 2009

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Over the past decade, large strides have been achieved in the invention of methods for the direct enantioselective addition of alkynes and metal alkynylide nucleophiles into prochiral aldehydes, ketones, and imines. This review highlights and compares the available methods for these transformations.
An unusual presentation of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome vascular type with deep vein thrombosis: A case for multidisciplinary management
Authors: Lipinski Michael J. , Lipinski Shawn E. , Kripalani Sanjay , Friesen Lindsay D. , Uthlaut Brian S. , Braddock Stephen R.
Published: February 2009

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) vascular type typically presents with significant vascular complications such as rupture of blood vessels, gravid uterus, or intestinal perforation. We report on a 24‐year‐old female that presents with deep vein thrombosis found to be due to compression by a large posterior tibial artery pseudoaneurysm which ultimately leads to the patient's diagnosis. This case highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving vascular surgery, internal medicine, genetics, and other health care providers for patients with vascular type EDS. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Controllable Peptide–Dendron Self‐Assembly: Interconversion of Nanotubes and Fibrillar Nanostructures
Authors: Shao Hui , Parquette Jon R.
Published: February 2009

Aufrollbar: Ein Peptid‐Dendron‐Hybrid (PDH) kann selbstorganisiert entweder lösliche Nanoröhren oder amyloidartige Fasernetzwerke bilden. Die Strukturen wandeln sich ineinander um, wenn die Salzkonzentration oder der pH‐Wert verändert wird. An den hydrophoben Grenzflächen lagern sich in Wasser effizient hydrophobe Moleküle an, die durch Senkung des pH‐Werts freigesetzt werden können.

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Ruthenium Nanoparticles Supported on Carbon Nanotubes as Efficient Catalysts for Selective Conversion of Synthesis Gas to Diesel Fuel
Authors: Kang Jincan , Zhang Shuli , Zhang Qinghong , Wang Ye
Published: February 2009

Diesel erwünscht? Das Titelsystem ist ein hochselektiver Fischer‐Tropsch‐Katalysator für die Erzeugung von C10‐ bis C20‐Kohlenwasserstoffen (Dieseltreibstoff). Die Selektivität für diese Kettenlängen hängt stark von der Größe der Ru‐Nanopartikel ab. Nanopartikel mit Größen um 7 nm zeigen die höchste Selektivität (ca. 65 %) bei außerdem hohen CO‐Umsatzfrequenzen.

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Polysaccharide‐block‐polypeptide Copolymer Vesicles: Towards Synthetic Viral Capsids
Authors: Schatz Christophe , Louguet Stéphanie , Le Meins Jean‐François , Lecommandoux Sébastien
Published: February 2009

Natürliche Eingebung: Amphiphile Polysaccharid‐block‐Polypeptid‐Copolymere wurden durch Klick‐Reaktion zwischen Alkin‐funktionalisiertem Dextran und Azid‐funktionalisiertem Poly(γ‐benzyl‐L‐glutamat) synthetisiert. Die Copolymere können sich zu kleinen Vesikeln anordnen (siehe Bild), wodurch eine neue Generation von Wirkstoff‐ und Gentransportsystemen mit Virus‐ähnlichen Strukturen in Aussicht steht.

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Controllable Peptide–Dendron Self‐Assembly: Interconversion of Nanotubes and Fibrillar Nanostructures
Authors: Shao Hui , Parquette Jon R.
Published: February 2009

Roll up: A peptide–dendron hybrid (PDH) is capable of self‐assembling into either a soluble nanotube or an amyloid‐like fibrillar network. The structures interconvert on adjusting the salt concentration or pH value. Their hydrophobic interfaces efficiently encapsulate hydrophobic molecules in water which can then be released by lowering the pH value.

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[2,6‐(Trip)2H3C6 ](Cp*)Si: A Stable Monomeric Arylsilicon(II) Compound
Authors: Jutzi Peter , Leszczyńska Kinga , Neumann Beate , Schoeller Wolfgang W. , Stammler Hans‐Georg
Published: February 2009

Si takes a rest: A bulky σ‐bound terphenyl substituent and a π‐bound Cp* ligand enable the isolation and full characterization of the first aryl‐substituted, monomeric silicon(II) compound 1, which can be regarded as the “resting state” of a true silylene containing a σ‐bound Cp* group. The conformation of the aryl group prevents aryl–Si π back‐bonding.

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Total Synthesis and Determination of the Absolute Configuration of (+)‐Omaezakianol
Authors: Morimoto Yoshiki , Okita Tatsuya , Kambara Hitomi
Published: February 2009

The proof of the pudding: The first asymmetric total synthesis of the marine tetracyclic oxasqualenoid (+)‐omaezakianol features a convergent olefin cross‐metathesis between a monotetrahydrofuran fragment and a triepoxy alkene, and cascade oxacyclizations of a triepoxy alcohol to form the right‐hand three ether rings. The total synthesis proved the absolute configuration of (+)‐omaezakianol to be that shown.

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Polysaccharide‐block‐polypeptide Copolymer Vesicles: Towards Synthetic Viral Capsids
Authors: Schatz Christophe , Louguet Stéphanie , Le Meins Jean‐François , Lecommandoux Sébastien
Published: February 2009

Natural inspiration: Amphiphilic polysaccharide‐block‐polypeptide copolymers were synthesized by click chemistry from dextran end‐functionalized with an alkyne group and poly(γ‐benzyl L‐glutamate) end‐functionalized with an azide group. The ability of these copolymers to self‐assemble into small vesicles (see picture) suggests the possibility of a new generation of drug‐ and gene‐delivery systems whose structure mimics that of viruses.

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Catalytic Cycloisomerization of 1,5‐Enynes to 1,3‐Cyclohexadienes via Ruthenium Vinylidene Intermediates
Authors: Fukamizu Koji , Miyake Yoshihiro , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: February 2009

Another way to dienes: The ruthenium‐catalyzed 6‐endo‐cycloisomerization of 1,5‐enynes gives the corresponding 1,3‐cyclohexadienes in high to excellent yields. This novel synthetic and catalytic method constitutes another way to selectively prepare 1,3‐cyclohexadienes, this cyclic diene skeleton being a core subunit in many natural products and a useful building block for a variety of organic transformations.

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Modification of cellulose acetate fabric with cyclodextrin to improve its dyeability
Authors: Raslan W. M. , El‐Aref A. T. , Bendak A.
Published: February 2009

Cellulose acetate fibers are usually dyed with disperse dyes in the presence of various additives to ensure coloration leveling. The possibilities of formation of complexes between disperse dye molecules and cyclodextrin (CD) can be of beneficial use. In this respect, the modification of the fiber with CD, then subjecting it to dyeing with disperse dye was performed on the basis of host/guest system as an alternative to overcome the low solubility of disperse dyes in water. The additives of the dyeing bath can be eliminated. The attained color intensities as well as the fastness properties are enhanced upon using CD. The depth of the dye inside the fiber structure is highly enhanced, while the thermal properties such as the glass transition temperature, crystallinity temperature, and melting temperature remain nearly constant. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis and characterization of novel polyglycerol hydrogels containing L‐lactic acid groups as pendant acidic substituents: pH‐Responsive polyglycerol‐based hydrogels
Authors: Yang Xiaogang , Liu Lijian
Published: February 2009

Novel pH‐responsive polyglycerol (PG)‐based hydrogels were successfully synthesized through the reaction of epichlorohydrin with L‐lactic acid (LLA) in the presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as a phase transfer catalyst at room temperature, followed by hydrolysis, polymerization, and crosslinking reactions. The resultant gel was characterized by carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared measurement, and it was found that incorporated LLA was bound to PG network as a pendant acidic substituent by the hydroxyl group of LLA (PGL gel). The PGL hydrogels with different LLA contents and equilibrium swelling ratios (ESRs) were prepared by changing the feed ratios of materials. The results determined by chemical titration showed that under the applied conditions the efficiency of introducing the carboxyl group into PG network was about 86% and the amount of LLA in the hydrogel reached to about 17 wt %. The swelling behavior of the hydrogels in different environmental mediums was investigated, and the results showed that the hydrogels are pH‐, ionic strength‐, and cationic charge‐responsive. The hydrogels also have the reversible swelling/deswelling properties. These pH‐responsive PG‐based hydrogels will have potential applications in biomedical and related areas. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Characteristic role of crosslinker on thermally induced volumetric contraction–expansion processes in poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) networks and water systems
Authors: Tokuhiro Tadashi , Tokuhiro Akira T.
Published: February 2009

In this work, the degree of crosslinking on the volumetric contraction–expansion processes of hydrogels made of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (NIPA) (initial amount: Cm) with varied amount (z) of crosslinking agent methylene‐bis‐acrylamide (BIS) in reference to most commonly used NIPA gel that was synthesized with Cm = 700 mM and z = 8.6 mM was investigated by applying our recently developed pycnometry. We focused on characteristic role of four polymeric NIPA residues directly bonded to a single BIS molecule by evaluating the total volume of gels per four NIPA residues directly bonded to a BIS molecule, plus associated water [νsp(gel)(NIPA)bonded)(T)], and the corresponding number of water molecules per four NIPA residues [Ns(gel)(NIPA)bonded)(T)]. We elucidated how these quantities characteristically contribute to changes in the volumetric contraction–expansion processes of hydrogels. A comparison of these quantities with the corresponding quantities for (NIPA)unbonded residues clearly revealed a significant structural difference between (NIPA)bonded and (NIPA)unbonded. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Mechanical and rheological properties of epoxidized soybean oil plasticized poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Xu Yu‐Qiong , Qu Jin‐Ping
Published: February 2009

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) is a well known biodegradable thermoplastic with excellent mechanical properties that is a product from renewable resources. However, the brittleness of PLA limits its general applications. Using epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) as a novel plasticizer of poly(lactic acid), the composite blend with the twin‐screw plastic extruder at five concentrations, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 wt %, respectively. Compared with pure PLA, all sets of blends show certain improvement of toughness to different extents. The concentration with 9 wt % ESO increases the elongation at break about 63%. The melt flow rates of these blends with respect to different ESO ratio have been examined using a melt flow indexer. Rheological behaviors about shear viscosity and melt strength analysis are discussed based on capillary rheology measurements. The tensile strength and melt strength of the blends with 6 wt % ESO simultaneity reach the maximums; whereas the elongation at break of the blends is the second highest level. ESO exhibits positive effect on both the elongation at break and melt strength. The results indicate that the blend obtained better rheological performance and melt strength. The content of 6 wt % ESO in PLA has been considered as a better balance of performance. The results have also demonstrated that there is a certain correlation between the performance in mechanical properties and melt rheological characterization for the PLA/ESO blends.© 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Conductivity and mechanical properties of composites based on MWCNTs and styrene‐butadiene‐styrene block™ copolymers
Authors: Pedroni Lucas G. , Soto‐Oviedo Mauro A. , Rosolen J. Maurício , Felisberti Maria I. , Nogueira Ana F.
Published: February 2009

Composites based on multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the block copolymer styrene‐butadiene‐styrene with two different contents of styrene have been investigated and their electrical conductivity and mechanical properties have been evaluated. The composites were prepared by a solution casting procedure, using a dispersant agent for the MWCNTs. Conductivity values of 10−4 and 1.6 S cm−1 have been obtained for samples containing 1 and 12 wt % of MWCNTs, respectively. The percolation threshold achieved for these systems was ∼0.25 wt %. According to dynamic mechanical analysis, the MWCNTs interact with both phases of the copolymers, acting as a reinforcement filler, whereas the dispersant agent acts as a plasticizer. However, it was shown that the reinforcing effect of the MWCNTs overcomes the latter, resulting in an overall improvement of mechanical properties of the composites. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Quantitative Measurement of Blood Flow Dynamics in Embryonic Vasculature Using Spectral Doppler Velocimetry
Authors: Davis Anjul , Izatt Joseph , Rothenberg Florence
Published: February 2009

The biophysical effects of blood flow are known to influence the structure and function of adult cardiovascular systems. Similar effects on the maturation of the cardiovascular system have been difficult to directly and non‐invasively measure due to the small size of the embryo. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been shown to provide high spatial and temporal structural imaging of the early embryonic chicken heart. We have developed an extension of Doppler OCT, called spectral Doppler velocimetry (SDV), that will enable direct, non‐invasive quantification of blood flow and shear rate from the early embryonic cardiovascular system. Using this technique, we calculated volumetric flow rate and shear rate from chicken embryo vitelline vessels. We present blood flow dynamics and spatial velocity profiles from three different vessels in the embryo as well as measurements from the outflow tract of the embryonic heart tube. This technology can potentially provide spatial mapping of blood flowand shear rate in embryonic cardiovascular structures, producing quantitative measurements that can be correlated with gene expression and normal and abnormal morphology. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.