bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shock barometry of the Siljan impact structure, Sweden
Authors: HOLM Sanna , ALWMARK Carl , ALVAREZ Walter , SCHMITZ Birger
Published: November 2011

Abstract– The Siljan impact structure in Sweden is the largest confirmed impact structure in Western Europe. Despite this, the structure has been poorly studied in the past, and detailed studies of shock metamorphic features in the target lithologies are missing. Here, we present the results of a detailed systematic search for shock metamorphic features in quartz grains from 73 sampled localities at Siljan. At 21 localities from an area approximately 20 km in diameter located centrally in the structure, the orientations of 2851 planar deformation feature sets in 1179 quartz grains were measured. Observations of shatter cones outside of the zone with shocked quartz extend the total shocked area to approximately 30 km in diameter. The most strongly shocked samples, recording pressures of up to 20 GPa, occur at the very central part of the structure, and locally in these samples, higher pressures causing melting conditions in the affected rocks were reached. Pressures recorded in the studied samples decrease outwards from the center of the structure, forming roughly circular envelopes around the proposed shock center. Based on the distribution pattern of shocked quartz at Siljan, the original transient cavity can be estimated at approximately 32–38 km in diameter. After correcting for erosion, we conclude that the original rim to rim diameter of the Siljan crater was somewhere in the size range 50–90 km.
Habit, identity, and repetitive action: A prospective study of binge‐drinking in UK students
Authors: Gardner Benjamin , de Bruijn Gert‐Jan , Lally Phillippa
Published: November 2011

Objectives.Repeated action can lead to the formation of habits and identification as ‘the kind of person’ that performs the behaviour. This has led to the suggestion that identity‐relevance is a facet of habit. This study explores conceptual overlap between habit and identity, and examines where the two constructs fit into an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model of binge‐drinking among university students.

Design.Prospective, questionnaire‐based correlational design.

Methods.A total of 167 UK university students completed baseline measures of past behaviour, self‐identity, the Self‐Report Habit Index (SRHI), and TPB constructs. One week later, 128 participants completed a follow‐up behaviour measure.

Results.Factor analyses of the SRHI and four identity items revealed two correlated but distinct factors, relating to habit and identity, respectively. Hierarchical regression analyses of intention and behaviour showed that identity contributed over and above TPB constructs to the prediction of intention, whereas habit predicted behaviour directly, and interacted with intentions in predicting behaviour. Habits unexpectedly strengthened the intention–behaviour relation, such that strong intenders were more likely to binge‐drink where they also had strong habits.

Conclusions.Identity and habit are conceptually discrete and impact differently on binge‐drinking. Findings have implications for habit theory and measurement. Recommendations for student alcohol consumption reduction initiatives are offered.
Applications of Nanoparticles in Herbal Medicine: Zedoary Turmeric Oil and Its Active Compound β-Elemene
Authors: Chen Meiwan , Wang Shengpeng , Tan Miao , Wang Yitao
Published: November 2011

Zedoary turmeric oil and its main active ingredient β-elemene are novel plant-derived anticancer agents with long-term clinical application history and low toxicity, which have been approved by the Chinese SFDA to treat different tumors including cancers of the brain, ovary, prostate, breast, lungs, liver, colon, and other tissues. Unfortunately, their hydrophobic properties, poor stabilities and low bioavailabilities seriously hamper their applications in clinic. Therefore, more attention should be paid to develop novel drug delivery systems for zedoary turmeric oil and β-elemene to enhance their overall quality. Recently, increased research has been carried out on a nanoparticle drug delivery system of zedoary turmeric oil and β-elemene to solve their poor aqueous solubilities and low bioavailabilities in vivo with much remarkable achievements springing up in the last decade. This review presents the novel nanoparticle formulations of zedoary turmeric oil and β-elemene and introduces the possible future prospects of their further study.
Acupuncture for Treatment of Noncyclic Breast Pain: A Pilot Study
Authors: Thicke Lori A. , Hazelton Jennifer K. , Bauer Brent A. , Chan Carl W. , Huntoon Elizabeth A. , Novotny Paul J. , Sloan Jeff A. , Wahner-Roedler Dietlind L.
Published: November 2011

Noncyclic breast pain is a common breast disorder prompting women to seek medical evaluation. We aimed to perform a pilot study on the relief of noncyclic breast pain using acupuncture. Thirty-seven women seen at a diagnostic breast clinic between April 2003 and January 2009 were enrolled. Treatment consisted of four acupuncture sessions over two weeks, with three months of follow-up. Response to treatment was measured with use of a breast pain questionnaire, a quality of life (QOL) questionnaire, and the Cleeland Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) assessed at baseline, end of treatment, and three months after treatment. Data were analyzed using standard descriptive statistics. Twenty-two patients completed four acupuncture sessions. Pain described as throbbing and heavy decreased significantly after acupuncture (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively). After treatment, pain scores (on the 10-point BPI scale) decreased by an average of 3.5 points for the worst pain during the previous month (p = 0.001), by 2.7 points for average pain (p < 0.001), and by 2.3 points for pain interference (p = 0.002). The percentage of patients reporting a clinically meaningful decrease of 2 points from baseline to the end of treatment included 67% (12/18) for the worst pain, 65% (11/17) for average pain, and 56% (10/18) for pain interference. QOL data showed no improvement in QOL measures (mental, physical, emotional, social, or spiritual well-being). The results of this preliminary study suggest that a randomized controlled trial may be warranted to evaluate the effect of acupuncture on noncyclic breast pain, as well as the optimal frequency of acupuncture treatments.
Herbal Cocktail Ka-Mi-Kae-Kyuk-Tang Stimulates Mouse Bone Marrow Stem Cell Hematopoiesis and Janus-Activated Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 5 Pathway
Authors: Lee Jeong-Eun , Seo Inweon , Jeong Soo-Jin , Koh Wonil , Jung Ji Hoon , Kwon Tae-Rin , Lee Hyo-Jung , Han Ihn , Lee Hyo-Jeong , Lee Eun-Ok , Kim Sun-Hyung , Jung Hee-Jae , Lu Junxuan , Kim Sung-Hoon
Published: November 2011

Ka-mi-kae-kyuk-tang (KMKKT) is an Oriental herbal medicinal cocktail. Our collaborative team has shown that it has potent anti-angiogenic, anti-cancer and anti-metastatic activities in vivo without observable side effects. We have documented evidence for KMKKT to alleviate drug-induced hematotoxicity in vivo. In the present study, we investigated the mechanistic and signaling events through which KMKKT enhances hematopoiesis, using hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) isolated from the bone marrow of 8–12 week-old C57BL/6 mice. Our results show that KMKKT significantly increased the expression of the hematopoietic cytokines interleukin (IL)-3, stem cell factor (SCF), granulocyte-macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), thrombopoietin (TPO) and erythropoietin (EPO) at the level of mRNA and secretion in HSCs. KMKKT also increased the expression of c-Kit, a cytokine receptor expressed in HSCs. In addition, KMKKT enhanced phosphorylation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5), and increased the binding activity of STAT5 to gamma interferon activated sites (GAS) that mediate JAK2 downstream signaling. Furthermore, we found that KMKKT significantly enhanced the growth rate of colony-forming unit granulocyte erythrocyte monocyte macrophages (CFU-GEMM) and burst forming unit erythroid (BFU-E) of mouse HSCs (mHSCs) stimulated by IL-3/EPO. Overall, our results demonstrated that KMKKT alleviated drug-induced side effects through enhanced hematopoiesis, at least in part through cytokine-mediated JAK2/STAT5 signaling.
SONOCHEMICAL SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NANOSTRUCTURED Mn3O4 AND ITS SURFACE CATALYTIC EFFECT ON POLY (VINYL ALCOHOL)
Authors: GANDHI S. , NAIR M. R. GOPINATHAN , ANBARASAN R.
Published: November 2011

Nanosized manganese oxide was synthesized with help of ultrasound and its polymer nanocomposite with poly (vinyl alcohol) was prepared. The incorporated nanosized manganese oxide is involved in the surface catalytic effect on PVA matrix. Nanosized manganese oxide and its polymer composite were characterized by FTIR, XRD, DSC, TGA, SEM and HRTEM methods. This PVA- Mn3O4 nanocomposite system has improved thermally resistant than pristine PVA.
MICROSTRUCTURAL CHANGES UPON ANNEALING AND IT'S EFFECT ON MAGNETIC AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NANOSIZED COBALT–FERRITE
Authors: BORGOHAIN CHANDAN , SENAPATI KULA KAMAL , MISHRA DEBABRATA , PERUMAL ALAGARSAMY , SARMA KANAK CHANDRA , PHUKAN PRODEEP
Published: November 2011

Nanocrystalline cobalt–ferrite particles of size 20–30 nm have been prepared by a reverse coprecipitation technique under the assistance of ultrasonic irradiation and heat-treatment at different temperatures (from 473 K to 1073 K). Both X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscope analysis confirms the reduction of strain present in the material with annealing temperature. Enhancement of coercivity and magnetization value has been observed without increase in the particle size for whole range of annealing temperature. Temperature dependent magnetization loop shows considerable magnetic hardening at low temperature. The observed enhancement of the coercivity value has been attributed to the increase in magneto-crystalline anisotropy, surface effects and exchange anisotropy. The mechanical properties of the pure cobalt–ferrite samples and cobalt–ferrite reinforced alumina samples were also examined. The Vickers microhardness and the compressive properties obtained from the stress–strain relation showed higher value with annealing temperatures and higher nanoparticle content.
STABILITY ANALYSIS OF SMALL COPPER NANOCLUSTERS
Authors: SAXENA PRABODH SAHAI , SRIVASTAVA PANKAJ , SHRIVASTAVA ASHWANI Kr.
Published: November 2011

We have investigated the lowest-energy structures and electronic properties of the Cu n(n = 2–10) nanoclusters based on density functional theory (DFT) in local density approximation. The total energies, binding energies per atom, bond lengths, HOMO-LUMO gaps and ionization potentials have been calculated. The results are compared well with other theoretical and available experimental results.
A NONLOCAL CONTINUUM MECHANICS MODEL TO ESTIMATE THE MATERIAL PROPERTY OF SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES
Authors: NARENDAR S. , GOPALAKRISHNAN S.
Published: November 2011

A subject of current technological interest is that of nanotechnology. It would appear that nonlocal continuum mechanics could potentially play a useful role in analysis related to nanotechnology applications. The present work explores this potential in the context of a specific application. The length scales associated with nanotechnology are often sufficiently small to call the applicability of classical continuum models into question. Atomic and molecular models, while certainly conceptually valid for small length scales, are difficult to formulate accurately and are almost always computationally intensive. Nonlocal continuum models represent attempts to extend the continuum approach to smaller length scales while retaining most of its many advantages. Therefore, continuum models need to be extended to consider the scale effect in nanomaterial studies. This can be accomplished through proposing nonlocal continuum mechanics models, where the internal size scale could be simply considered in constitutive equations as a material parameter. Usually, the magnitude of the nonlocal parameter e0, determines the nonlocal effect in the analysis. The modeling and analyses of nanostructures based on flexural displacement, require an accurate estimate of nonlocal scaling parameter. Such an attempt is made in the present work. From the present analysis, the value of the scale coefficient (e0a, a is carbon-carbon bond length) is recommended to be about 0.11 nm for the application of the nonlocal theory in the analysis of carbon nanotubes.
Origin of aromatic character in porphyrinoid systems
Authors: Lash Timothy D.
Published: November 2011

The aromatic nature of porphyrins is commonly attributed to the presence of an [18]annulene substructure. However, this viewpoint has been disputed. Drawing on a range of examples of carbaporphyrinoid systems from the author's own studies, the [18]annulene model is shown to be a self-consistent and insightful approach for considering the aromatic properties of these porphyrin analogs. Benziporphyrins provide a continuum of porphyrinoid structures that range from nonaromatic to highly aromatic species and the presence of 18π electron delocalization pathways provides an excellent explanation for the variations in their properties. The same type of analysis is applied to carbaporphyrins, tropiporphyrins, azuliporphyrins, N-confused porphyrins, pyrazoloporphyrins and dicarbaporphyrins. Nevertheless, these properties might also be explained by a 22π electron delocalization model proposed by Schleyer. The [18]annulene model gains further support from the properties of dideazaporphyrins which cannot take part in this type of 22π electron delocalization but nevertheless retain porphyrin-like aromatic properties. These results support the concept that porphyrins are bridged [18]annulenes.
CORRELATION BETWEEN THE ELASTIC AND THE VIBRONIC BEHAVIOR OF NANOSTRUCTURED TITANIA AND THEIR PRESSURE, SIZE, AND TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE
Authors: LIU X. J. , PAN L. K. , SUN Z. , CHEN Y. M. , YANG X. X. , YANG L. W. , ZHOU Z. F. , SUN CHANG Q.
Published: November 2011

Correlation between the elastic and the vibronic behavior of TiO 2 and their responses to the variation of crystal size, applied pressure, and measuring temperature has been investigated based on the bond order–length-strength correlation mechanism. Theoretical reproduction of the measurements clarified that: (i) the elastic modulus (B) and the Raman shifts (Δω) are strongly correlated and we can know either one of the B or the Δω from the other; (ii) the under-coordination induced cohesive energy loss and the energy density gain in the surface up to skin depth determines the size effect; (iii) bond expansion and bond weakening due to thermal vibration originates the thermally softened elastic modulus and the Raman shifts; and (iv) bond compression and bond strengthening results in the mechanically stiffened elastic modulus and the Raman shifts. With the developed premise, one can predict the changing trends of the concerned properties with derivatives of quantitative information of the atomic cohesive energy, binding energy density, Debye temperature, and nonlinear compressibility of the specimen.
THE INVESTIGATION ON THE FORMATION OF (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 PEROVSKITE PHASE IN MECHANOCHEMICAL SYNTHESIS
Authors: ZHU JINGXIAN , ZHOU MINGBIN , LI ZHENRONG , XU ZHUO , YAO XI
Published: November 2011

Lead-free (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 (KNN) nanopowder with perovskite structure was synthesized by mechanochemical synthesis method successfully. In order to investigate the perovskite phase formation of KNN powders during the mechanochemical synthesis process, we set up three milling routes with different transmission ratios (Wv/Wp) acting on the mixed starting powders of Na2CO3, K2CO3 and Nb2O5 . KNN perovskite phase was not detected by XRD under the low transmission ratios -2 with the shock power of 273 W. When the transmission ratios was increased to -2.75 with the shock power of 683.4 W, KNN perovskite phase was formed after milling for 22 h. Based on these results, it has been found, that in shock mode process (SMP), that higher shock power is helpful for the formation KNN perovskite phase. The critical shock power P critical and critical weight-normalized cumulative shock energy [Formula: see text] in KNN system are discussed. Compared with SMP, when Wv/Wp = -3.5, in friction mode process (FMP), KNN perovskite phase was formed after milling for 5 h. It implies that FMP benefit the formation of KNN perovskite phase. The morphology of KNN powder was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Nosocomial Infections in Burned Patients in Motahari Hospital, Tehran, Iran
Authors: Azimi Leila , Motevallian Abbas , Ebrahimzadeh Namvar Amirmorteza , Asghari Babak , Lari Abdolaziz Rastegar
Published: November 2011

Burn patients are at high risk of developing nosocomial infection because of their destroyed skin barrier and suppressed immune system, compounded by prolonged hospitalization and invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures. Studies on nosocomial infection in burn patients are not well described. The objective of the present study was to identify the causative bacterial of nosocomial infection and to determine the incidence of nosocomial infection and their changing during hospitalization in burned patients admitted to in the Motahari Hospital, Tehran, Iran. During the second part of 2010, 164 patients were included in this study. Samples were taken the first 48 hours and the fourth week after admission to Motahari Burn hospital. Isolation and identification of microorganisms was performed using the standard procedure. Of the 164 patients, 717 samples were taken and 812 bacteria were identified, 610 patients were culture positive on day 7 while 24 (17.2%) on 14 days after admission. The bacteria causing infections were 325Pseudomonas, 140Acinetobacter, 132 Staphylococcus aureus, and 215 others. The percentage of mortality was 12%. All of patients had at least 1 positive culture withPseudomonasand/or withAcinetobacter. Hospitals suggest continuous observationof burn infections and increase strategies for antimicrobial resistance control and treatment of infectious complications.
Estimation of Stochastic Frontier Models with Fixed Effects through Monte Carlo Maximum Likelihood
Authors: Emvalomatis Grigorios , Stefanou Spiro E. , Oude Lansink Alfons
Published: November 2011

Estimation of nonlinear fixed‐effects models is plagued by the incidental parameters problem. This paper proposes a procedure for choosing appropriate densities for integrating the incidental parameters from the likelihood function in a general context. The densities are based on priors that are updated using information from the data and are robust to possible correlation of the group‐specific constant terms with the explanatory variables. Monte Carlo experiments are performed in the specific context of stochastic frontier models to examine and compare the sampling properties of the proposed estimator with those of the random‐effects and correlated random‐effects estimators. The results suggest that the estimator is unbiased even in short panels. An application to a cross‐country panel of EU manufacturing industries is presented as well. The proposed estimator produces a distribution of efficiency scores suggesting that these industries are highly efficient, while the other estimators suggest much poorer performance.
Glutamine Supplementation in Sick Children: Is It Beneficial?
Authors: Mok Elise , Hankard Régis
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this review is to provide a critical appraisal of the literature on Glutamine (Gln) supplementation in various conditions or illnesses that affect children, from neonates to adolescents. First, a general overview of the proposed mechanisms for the beneficial effects of Gln is provided, and subsequently clinical studies are discussed. Despite safety, studies are conflicting, partly due to different effects of enteral and parenteral Gln supplementation. Further insufficient evidence is available on the benefits of Gln supplementation in pediatric patients. This includes premature infants, infants with gastrointestinal disease, children with Crohn's disease, short bowel syndrome, malnutrition/diarrhea, cancer, severe burns/trauma, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and type 1 diabetes. Moreover, methodological issues have been noted in some studies. Further mechanistic data is needed along with large randomized controlled trials in select populations of sick children, who may eventually benefit from supplemental Gln.
Use of the Planning Outreach Liaison Model in the Neighborhood Planning Process: A Case Study in Seattle′s Rainier Valley Neighborhood
Authors: Oshun Molly , Ardoin Nicole M. , Ryan Sharon
Published: November 2011

Our study examines a nontraditional engagement process employed by the City of Seattle during neighborhood plan updates. Adapting the trusted advocates model from the public health field, the city hired planning outreach liaisons (POLs) from 13 diverse community groups to solicit input from traditionally underrepresented residents. To explore the efficacy of this approach, we collected data through interviews with residents, neighborhood leaders, community development firm employees, university researchers, and municipal staff; a review of planning documents; observation at planning meetings. We found that the POLs effectively engaged underrepresented groups—including more than 1,200 stakeholders—particularly those characterized as self‐organized, centralized or having strong social networks and were important in the advancement of democratic principles. Greater transparency by the city about process goals and constraints, along with strategies to address power issues, may have facilitated better communication and relationship building among the city, newly enfranchised residents, and the “usual suspects.”
Phenotypic Changes in Diabetic Neuropathy Induced by a High-Fat Diet in Diabetic C57Bl/6 Mice
Authors: Guilford B. L. , Ryals J. M. , Wright D. E.
Published: November 2011

Emerging evidence suggests that dyslipidemia is an independent risk factor for diabetic neuropathy (DN) (reviewed by Vincent et al. 2009). To experimentally determine how dyslipidemia alters DN, we quantified neuropathic symptoms in diabetic mice fed a high-fat diet. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet developed dyslipidemia and a painful neuropathy (mechanical allodynia) instead of the insensate neuropathy (mechanical insensitivity) that normally develops in this strain. Nondiabetic mice fed a high-fat diet also developed dyslipidemia and mechanical allodynia. Thermal sensitivity was significantly reduced in diabetic compared to nondiabetic mice, but was not worsened by the high-fat diet. Moreover, diabetic mice fed a high-fat diet had significantly slower sensory and motor nerve conduction velocities compared to nondiabetic mice. Overall, dyslipidemia resulting from a high-fat diet may modify DN phenotypes and/or increase risk for developing DN. These results provide new insight as to how dyslipidemia may alter the development and phenotype of diabetic neuropathy.
Design of Ultra-Wideband MIMO Antenna for Breast Tumor Detection
Authors: Wang Liting , Huang Bin
Published: November 2011

A MIMO antenna composed by microstrip line-fed circular slot antenna is proposed. This antenna is used in ultra-wideband microwave imaging systems aimed for early breast cancer detection. The antenna is designed to operate across the ultra-wideband frequency band in the air. The mutual coupling between the antenna elements has been investigated to be low enough for MIMO medical imaging applications. Both the simulation and measurement results are shown to illustrate the performances of the proposed antenna.
Beneficial Effect of Ultra-Low-Dose Aspirin in Platelet Activity Alterations and Haemorrhage Observed in Experimental Portal Hypertension
Authors: Eizayaga F. X. , Aguejouf O. , Desplat V. , Doutremepuich C.
Published: November 2011

Ultra-low-dose aspirin has shown a prothrombotic effect in the laser-induced thrombosis model. Several studies of our laboratory have shown a positive effect in rats with two different experimental models of portal hypertension: portal vein ligation, a model with an almost normal liver, and 30 days of bile duct ligation, a model with cirrhosis and presence of ascitis. In both models of portal hypertensive rats, bleeding time was prolonged and thrombi formation, in a laser-induced model of thrombi production, decreased. The hypotheses of the presented studies were that ultra-low-dose aspirin could decrease the bleeding complications in these models and that the mechanism for these effects could act thorough the COX pathway. In different studies, ultra-low dose of aspirin normalized the induced hemorrhage time, thrombi production, and platelet-endothelial cell interaction. The possible beneficial role of these doses of aspirin and mechanism of COX 2 inhibition are discussed.
Retargeting of Viruses to Generate Oncolytic Agents
Authors: Verheije M. H. , Rottier P. J. M.
Published: November 2011

Oncolytic virus therapy is based on the ability of viruses to effectively infect and kill tumor cells without destroying the normal tissues. While some viruses seem to have a natural preference for tumor cells, most viruses require the modification of their tropism to specifically enter and replicate in such cells. This review aims to describe the transductional targeting strategies currently employed to specifically redirect viruses towards surface receptors on tumor cells. Three major strategies can be distinguished; they involve (i) the incorporation of new targeting specificity into a viral surface protein, (ii) the incorporation of a scaffold into a viral surface protein to allow the attachment of targeting moieties, and (iii) the use of bispecific adapters to mediate targeting of a virus to a specified moiety on a tumor cell. Of each strategy key features, advantages and limitations are discussed and examples are given. Because of their potential to cause sustained, multiround infection—a desirable characteristic for eradicating tumors—particular attention is given to viruses engineered to become self-targeted by the genomic expression of a bispecific adapter protein.
A Systematic Review of the Effect of Expectancy on Treatment Responses to Acupuncture
Authors: Colagiuri Ben , Smith Caroline A.
Published: November 2011

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of acupuncture often find equivalent responses to real and placebo acupuncture despite both appearing superior to no treatment. This raises questions regarding the mechanisms of acupuncture, especially the contribution of patient expectancies. We systematically reviewed previous research assessing the relationship between expectancy and treatment responses following acupuncture, whether real or placebo. To be included, studies needed to assess and/or manipulate expectancies about acupuncture and relate these to at least one health-relevant outcome. Nine such independent studies were identified through systematic searches of Medline, PsycInfo, PubMed, and Cochrane Clinical Trials Register. The methodology and reporting of these studies were quite heterogeneous, meaning that meta-analysis was not possible. A descriptive review revealed that five studies found statistically significant effects of expectancy on a least one outcome, with three also finding evidence suggestive of an interaction between expectancy and type of acupuncture (real or placebo). While there were some trends in significant effects in terms of study characteristics, their generality is limited by the heterogeneity of study designs. The differences in design across studies highlight some important methodological considerations for future research in this area, particularly regarding whether to assess or manipulate expectancies and how best to assess expectancies.
In vivo Comparison of the Effects of Bupivacaine and Levobupivacaine on the Pregnant Rat Myometrium Using Electrohysterogram
Authors: Kaynak Gursel , Iskender Abdulkadir , Albayrak Mustafa , Ankaralı Seyit , Demir Serif , Demiraran Yavuz , Yalcın Gulbin Sezen
Published: November 2011

Background and Aims: The effect of local anesthetics on myometrial contractility during labor analgesia is debatable. We aimed to compare the effects of bupivacaine and levobupivacaine on rat uterine contractility in an in vivo setting. Methods: Electrical activities of 40 pregnant rat uteruses were recorded on electrohysterogram after dividing the rats into bupivacaine and levobupivacaine groups. Uterine contraction frequencies were recorded at each 5-min interval. The first 5-min recording was considered the control, which was immediately followed by intramyometrial administration of either bupivacaine or levobupivacaine. The recordings were continued for 30 min. The changes in frequencies at each time interval of the groups were compared with each other and the control recording. Results: The frequencies from both groups at each interval were lower than the control values, but not different between the groups. The frequencies of the bupivacaine group during the 5–10 min and 10–15 min intervals were lower than the control time interval, but no significant differences were present between the control and the other time intervals. However, no significant differences were found at any time interval for the levobupivacaine group. Conclusion: Levobupivacaine led to less muscle relaxation compared to bupivacaine and may be a better option for labor analgesia and anesthesia considering uterine contractility.
Echocardiographic Risk Stratification of Fetuses with Sacrococcygeal Teratoma and Twin-Reversed Arterial Perfusion
Authors: Byrne Francesca A. , Lee Hanmin , Kipps Alaina K. , Brook Michael M. , Moon-Grady Anita J.
Published: November 2011

Objective: To evaluate pre-intervention echocardiographic parameters of cardiac function in fetuses who survive without hydrops as compared to fetuses who develop hydrops or perinatal death in the setting of sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) and twin-reversed arterial perfusion sequence (TRAP). Methods: Clinical, echocardiographic and sonographic data of fetuses with SCT or TRAP during 1999–2009 were reviewed retrospectively. Measurements of cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), cardiac dimension Z-scores, combined ventricular output (CVO), valvular regurgitation, and cardiovascular profile scores (CVPS) were obtained. Results: In total, 19 fetuses (11 SCT, 8 TRAP) met the inclusion criteria and 26 detailed fetal echocardiographic studies were reviewed. Outcome was poor in 7 pregnancies (group A) and good in 12 (group B). Group A had worse CVPS (8.5 vs. 10, p < 0.01) and higher CTR (0.37 vs. 0.30, p = 0.04). At least one of the following was present in each group A fetus: CTR >0.5, CVO >550 ml/min/kg, tricuspid or mitral regurgitation, or mitral valve Z-score >2. No group B fetus had any of these abnormalities. No fetus in either group had abnormal venous Doppler waveforms at presentation. Conclusions: Fetal echocardiography can identify abnormalities of cardiac size and systolic, but not diastolic, function in all fetuses who subsequently died or developed hydrops.
Dynamics of Intracranial Venous Flow Patterns in Patients with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Authors: Sander K. , Poppert H. , Etgen T. , Hemmer B. , Sander D.
Published: November 2011

Objective: To examine the dynamics of intracranial venous flow patterns in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Methods: Nonrandomized controlled trial analyzing the difference in cerebral perfusion in 13 IIH patients and 12 healthy controls using contrast-enhanced duplex sonography. In patients, an additional 3D gradient echo magnetic resonance venography (MRV) using a new technique was performed to quantify stenosis of the cerebral sinus. The cerebral perfusion parameters, including cerebral transit time (CTT) and time to peak (TTP), were analyzed. Results: IIH patients had a higher BMI (29.3 [95% CI 26.4, 32.2] vs. 23.3 [95% CI 20.7, 25.9], p = 0.003) and an increased prevalence of headache, but all other clinical characteristics were comparable. The CTT did not differ significantly. The TTP was significantly longer in IIH patients compared to controls (8.5 [95% CI 7.6, 9.4] vs. 7.3 s [95% CI 6.3, 8.1], p = 0.04). Twelve of 13 (92%) IIH patients showed stenosis of the cerebral sinus. Conclusions: Our study is the first to report an altered cerebral venous flow in IIH patients compared to controls using a dynamic ultrasonographic technique. A simplified MRV technique confirms the high prevalence and reliable detection of venous stenosis in IIH patients.
Results of Surgery for Perforated Gastroduodenal Ulcers in a Dutch Population
Authors: Hemmer P.H.J. , de Schipper J.S. , van Etten B. , Pierie J.P.E.N. , Bonenkamp J.J. , de Graaf P.W. , Karsten T.M.
Published: November 2011

Objective: Despite improvements in anesthesiology and intensive care medicine, mortality for perforated gastroduodenal ulcer disease remains high. This study was designed to evaluate the results of surgery for perforated ulcer disease and to identify prognostic factors for mortality in order to optimize treatment. Patients and Methods: The medical records of 272 patients undergoing emergency surgery for perforated ulcer disease from 2000 to 2005 in two large teaching hospitals and one university hospital in the Netherlands were retrospectively analyzed. Information on 89 pre-, peri- and postoperative data were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression analysis. The primary endpoint was 30-day mortality. Results: The 30-day mortality rate was 16%. Variables associated with 30-day mortality were age, shock, tachycardia, anemia and ASA class. Conclusions: A relatively low 30-day mortality rate was achieved. Age, shock, tachycardia and anemia were significantly associated with 30-day mortality. Finding that shock, tachycardia and anemia are independently associated with 30-day mortality could indicate that patients are septic upon admission. Improvements in survival might be achieved by early sepsis treatment.
Fetoscopic Laser Photocoagulation of Feeding Vessels to a Large Placental Chorioangioma following Fetal Deterioration after Amnioreduction
Authors: Jones Kathryn , Tierney Katherine , Grubbs Brendan H. , Pruetz Jay D. , Detterich Jon , Chmait Ramen H.
Published: November 2011

Large placental chorioangiomas (>4 cm) can precipitate severe polyhydramnios, fetal anemia, growth restriction, high-output cardiac failure, hydrops, and fetal demise. We report a case of a large chorioangioma that was treated in a stepwise fashion with amnioreduction to ameliorate maternal discomfort, followed by fetoscopic laser ablation of the feeding vessels after rapid evolution of heart failure. Although amnioreduction was helpful in improving maternal symptoms, we suspect that the drop in intrauterine pressure from the amniotic fluid decompression may have resulted in increased tumor perfusion, thereby promoting fetal deterioration due to a ‘steal’ phenomenon. Close scrutiny of the fetal status via ultrasound is required, particularly if amnioreduction is necessary, and definitive treatment should be considered once early signs of heart failure develop. Fetoscopic laser ablation of the feeding vessels is a feasible definitive treatment of a large chorioangioma in cases in which perfusion of the tumor is via a superficial nonterminus umbilical artery. Future reports should describe the anatomy of the blood supply to the chorioangioma, in the hopes that further guidelines for surgical candidacy may be established.
Combination Therapy for Renal Cell Cancer: What Are Possible Options?
Authors: Santos Napoleon , Wenger Justin B. , Havre Pamela , Liu Yanxia , Dagan Roi , Imanirad Iman , Ivey Alison M. , Zlotecki Robert A. , Algood Chester B. , Gilbert Scott M. , Allegra Carmen J. , Okunieff Paul , Vieweg Johannes , Dang Nam H. , Luesch Hendrik , Dang Long H.
Published: November 2011

Antiangiogenic therapy has shown promise in the treatment of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Two classes of antiangiogenic drugs, the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody bevacizumab and the tyrosine kinase inhibitors sorafenib, sunitinib and pazopanib, have shown efficacy in patients with RCC and are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treatment of this cancer. In practice, the clinical benefit of antiangiogenic drugs in RCC has been heterogeneous, and in patients who do respond, benefits are modest and/or short-lived. To improve efficacy, combination targeted therapy has been attempted, but with either very limited additional efficacy or nontolerable toxicities. Recent advances in the molecular understanding of tumor angiogenesis and mechanism of resistance, along with the rapid development of targeted drug discovery, have made it possible to further explore novel combination therapy for RCC.
Interpretation of Array Comparative Genome Hybridization Data: A Major Challenge
Authors: Gijsbers A.C.J. , Schoumans J. , Ruivenkamp C.A.L.
Published: November 2011

The advent and application of high-resolution array-based comparative genome hybridization (array CGH) has led to the detection of large numbers of copy number variants (CNVs) in patients with developmental delay and/or multiple congenital anomalies as well as in healthy individuals. The notion that CNVs are also abundantly present in the normal population challenges the interpretation of the clinical significance of detected CNVs in patients. In this review we will illustrate a general clinical workflow based on our own experience that can be used in routine diagnostics for the interpretation of CNVs.
A New Case of Pure Partial 7q Duplication
Authors: Alfonsi M. , Palka C. , Morizio E. , Gatta V. , Franchi S. , Guanciali Franchi P. , Zori R. , Calabrese G. , Palka G. , Chiarelli F.
Published: November 2011

We report on an 18-month-old boy conceived by assisted reproduction technology with developmental delay, hypotonia, microcephaly, frontal bossing, a mild convergent squint, malformed ears, and a short neck. Karyotype analysis revealed a de novo 7q21.1q22.3 duplication characterized by array comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) as a segment of 18.69 Mb. Duplications of the long arm of chromosome 7 are uncommon. There are 18 reported cases of different 7q segments with a pure duplication with no additional deletion of other chromosomes. As a consequence, duplications of chromosome 7q have been classified in 4 groups on the basis of the involved region. The present case is included in group 3 which involves interstitial duplications of different sizes. In the literature, only one case with an apparently smaller duplication of the same region has been described. Despite this, the phenotype is different. Moreover, the 2 patients share some phenotypic features, such as psychomotor delay, hypotonia, frontal bossing, short neck, and strabismus. However, the absence of physical characterization in most of the reported cases could justify the lacking phenotype-genotype correlation in patients with partial 7q duplication. Further studies using recent molecular approaches such as array-CGH might permit a more clinically useful grouping of 7q duplications.
Laws That Refuse To Be Stated: The Post-Sectarian Spiritualities of Emerson, Thoreau, and D. T. Suzuki
Authors: Rampell Palmer
Published: November 2011

Drawing on previously untranslated Japanese articles, this essay reveals the powerful and sustained influence New England transcendentalists Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau exerted on the highly renowned and yet highly unorthodox arbiter of Japanese Zen Buddhism, D. T. Suzuki.
John Winthrop in The Maximus Poems
Authors: Grieve-Carlson Gary
Published: November 2011

In The Maximus Poems, Charles Olson reinscribes colonial American history through the lens of his influential postmodern poetics. Playing on the tension between politics, economics, and myth, between primary sources and Whiteheadian “eternal events,” Olson brings John Winthrop, first governor of Massachusetts Bay, into the “live air” of the postmodern.
Czech Underground Musicians in Search of Art Innovation
Authors: Machovec Martin
Published: November 2011

The Czech underground culture of the 1970s and 1980s has so far been widely acknowledged for its contribution to the development of the human rights movement in the country, especially as a predecessor and fellow-traveller of Charta 77. So have been some of the underground rock musicians (The Plastic People of the Universe) and some of the poets and writers (e.g. Egon Bondy, I. M. Jirous, Pavel Zajíček, Jáchym Topol). However, as a result of vivid cooperation within the underground “ghetto” between poets, writers, philosophers, musicians and representatives of fine arts, the underground rockers created performances to be appreciated in terms of visual arts, literature and contemporary music—which has so far remained rather underresearched. The article brings forth some evidences of this creativity by locating the phenomenon of Czech underground music in the broader cultural and aesthetic context of the time.
Happiness in a Mechanistic Universe: Thomas Hobbes on the Nature and Attainability of Happiness
Authors: Kitanov Severin V.
Published: November 2011

The article revisits the originality of Hobbes's concept of happiness on the basis of Hobbes's two accounts found respectively in Thomas White's De Mundo Examined and Leviathan. It is argued that Hobbes's claim that happiness consists in the unhindered advance from one acquired good to another ought to be understood against the background of Hobbes's theory of sensation and the imagination, on the one hand, and Hobbes's doctrine of conatus, on the other. It is further claimed that the account of happiness in White's De Mundo differs from that in Leviathan. In the former work, happiness is defined not as the mere progression from one good to another but as the joy/mental pleasure derived from the awareness of one's unhindered advance. The traditional claim that Hobbes is an ethical subjectivist is examined in connection with Hobbes's view of the subjectivity of happiness and the rejection of the summum bonum. Lastly, Hobbes's distinction between worldly and everlasting happiness is discussed.
Socialism, National Utopia, and Rock Music: Inside the Albanian Rock Scene of Yugoslavia, 1970–1989
Authors: Krasniqi Gëzim
Published: November 2011

This study examines the nascent Albanian rock scene in Kosovo in the 1970s and 1980s. It argues that the rock scene represented both a subcultural movement as it “deviated” from the prevailing Albanian culture in Yugoslavia (and Albania, as well), introducing new forms of expression, as well as a countercultural movement within the larger Yugoslav space for it conveyed political messages which challenged the predominant political order in Yugoslavia. As a cultural phenomenon embedded in a specific socioeconomic and geopolitical context, the Albanian rock scene in Kosovo, although relatively short-lived, initiated important changes in the cultural and social life of Kosovo.
Jarocin: A Free Enclave behind the Iron Curtain
Authors: Piotrowski Grzegorz
Published: November 2011

Jarocin in Poland is usually associated with one of the biggest rock festivals behind the Iron Curtain. It was not only a birthplace of many music groups in the 1980s, but also an enclave of freedom in communist Poland. It was a place where young people could manifest their music and fashion tastes, listen to their favorite bands and enjoy few days of relative freedom. This article highlights the main events in the history of the festival and also tries to assess its significance for the broader political and cultural life of Poland in the 1980s. It also looks at the role the festival played in the creation of youth subcultures and in catalyzing political changes in “late socialist” Poland.
Stairway to Hell: The Yugoslav Rock Scene and Youth during the Crisis Decade of 1981–1991
Authors: Spaskovska Ljubica
Published: November 2011

The article discusses the role of the Yugoslav rock/punk scene in late socialism and the youth as its main consumer and producer, with an emphasis on the responses to the 'apocalyptic' shifts in the socio-political arena, generally channeled through various liberal, anti-war, and antinationalist initiatives and campaigns. Based on interviews and primary material from the 1980s, the text closely analyses the context of the last Yugoslav decade, the all-encompassing reality and discourse of crisis, as related to the public exposure and responses of the youth and the music circles. The article problematizes the fine line between what was articulated or misinterpreted as anti-system vs. anti-Yugoslav, by arguing that, while consciously channeling rebellious voices directed against the system, the majority of rock artists and urban youth milieus stood and/or actively campaigned against the violence and the dissolution of the state.
The Formation of Bulgarian Countercultures: Rock Music, Socialism, and After
Authors: Trendafilov Vladimir
Published: November 2011

The article traces the evolution of musical counterculture in Bulgaria from the 1960s down to the present time. A special attention is given to its burgeoning during socialism—the creation of the early rock groups, the difficulties they met on their way to achieving popularity and style, and their uneven struggle with the various censorship strictures. The significant details and stages of this process are viewed against the background of emergent socialist consumer culture, a dubious product of the interplay between the totalitarian system and the cultural impact of the West. And, last but not least, the development of present-day trends and tastes in Bulgarian popular music is interpreted as a basic transformation of the forces that constitute the field of conflict between counterculture and the mainstream.
“Wild West,” “Gangster,” and “Desperado” Feelings: The Perception of the “West” in Youth Subcultures in Hungary in the 1960s
Authors: Horváth Sándor
Published: November 2011

The images of the “modern youth” and moral panics concerning the youth as a metaphor played an important part in the identity construction process throughout Cold War Europe. For Hungarian youth the West represented the land of promise and desires, albeit their knowledge of the Western other was highly limited and controlled by the socialist state. But how did the partly unknown West and its “folk devils” become the objects of desire in the East? For Western youngsters it seemed to be easier to realize their cultural preferences, however, youth cultures of the sixties were represented in the transnational discourses as manifestations of intra-generational, parent–adolescent conflicts not only in the Eastern Bloc, but also in Western democracies. The perception of the parent–child conflict became a cornerstone of the studies on the sixties, and the youth studies represented youth subcultures as “countercultures.” This paper addresses the role of the official discourse in the construction of “youth cultures” which lies at the heart of identity politics concerning youngsters. It looks at some of the youth subcultures which emerged in socialist Hungary and, in particular how “Eastern” youth perceived “the West,” and how their desires concerning the “Western cultures” were represented in the official discourse. It also seeks to show that borders created in the mind between “East” and “West” worked not only in the way that the “iron curtain” did, but it also became a cultural practice to create social identities following the patterns of Eastern and Western differentiation in the socialist countries.