bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the Sitz bath in managing adult patients with anorectal disorders
Authors: LANG Dora S.P. , THO Poh Chi , ANG Emily N.K.
Published: March 2011

Objective:  The objective of this review was to critically analyze and systematically review the best evidence related to the effectiveness of the Sitz bath in managing adult patients with anorectal disorders.

Methods:  The text terms were established and searched systematically from the relevant databases from 1990 to November 2009 in the English language. The eligible studies that were congruent with the review's inclusion criteria were selected. The selected studies were critically appraised for their methodological validity by two independent reviews and the data were extracted from the studies by using the Joanna Briggs Institute Systems Meta Analysis of Statistical Assessment and Review Instrument. The results were presented in narrative form because statistical pooling was not possible due to clinical heterogeneity.

Results:  A total of four randomized controlled trials was included in the review. The use of the Sitz bath had no significant impact on reducing the overall intensity of pain and postoperative pain. Conflicting findings for postdefecation pain were reported. The Sitz bath had no impact on accelerating fissure or wound healing. However, the patients were satisfied with using the Sitz bath and no severe complication was reported.

Conclusion:  There was no strong evidence to support the use of the Sitz bath for pain relief and to accelerate fissure or wound healing among adult patients with anorectal disorders. However, the Sitz bath may be prescribed for patients' satisfaction.
Survival strategies of male nurses in rural areas of Japan
Authors: ASAKURA Kyoko , WATANABE Ikue
Published: March 2011

Aim:  This study seeks to describe the survival strategies of male nurses in Japanese rural areas.

Methods:  Interviews were conducted with 12 male nurses who described their occupational experiences. The modified grounded theory approach was used for the data collection and analysis.

Results:  The survival strategies of these male nurses can be categorized into four types: (i) giving priority to the achievement of financial security; (ii) agreeing to a dependent relationship with doctors; (iii) maintaining one's male identity through supporting the female nurses; and (iv) making an appeal to the significance of men in the female‐dominated nursing profession.

Conclusion:  The survival strategies that were used by the male nurses were subtle, allowing them to influence indirectly both the female nurses and the doctors. These findings contribute to our understanding of the experiences of male nurses, a gendered minority in a female‐dominated workplace, and encourage gender equality in the nursing profession.
Turkish nurses’ level of knowledge regarding implantable port catheter care
Authors: ÖZDEN Dilek , ÇALIŞKAN Nurcan
Published: March 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to determine the knowledge levels of Turkish nurses regarding implantable port catheter care.

Methods:  A descriptive method was used inside a university hospital that was located in a Turkish metropolis. The data were collected via a questionnaire that was given to a total of 45 nurses who were employed in the internal medicine clinics where the oncology patients were treated.

Results:  In this study, 42.2% of the nurses received in‐service training about the implantable port catheter. It was determined that the mean knowledge point was 15.13 ± 4.78. The difference between the knowledge points of the nurses regarding implantable port catheter care, based on whether or not the nurses had received in‐service training, was statistically significant. Moreover, it was determined that the majority of the nurses did not know where the implantable port catheter is placed, its period of use following implantation, the amount of normal saline to be used for washing the catheter, the special port (Huber) needle, the number of the needle, and the exchange time of these needles.

Conclusion:  In this study, there existed significant differences between the scores of the nurses who received in‐service training about the implantable port catheter and the scores of those who did not receive in‐service training. The majority of the nurses who participated in the study were willing to receive in‐service training regarding this subject. Thus, the organization of in‐service training programs and the implementation of care, according to the developed standards and guidelines, are considered as significant for reducing the occurrence of the complications that are related to the use of the implantable port catheter.
Adverse effects and appetite suppression associated with particle beam therapy in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: OGAMA Norimasa , SUZUKI Sumie
Published: March 2011

Aim:  This purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the appetite and various factors that are associated with particle beam therapy, including the adverse effects of radiation, dry‐mouth period, analgesic medication use, frequency of oral care, and participants' characteristics, in 121 patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods:  A path analysis was used to evaluate the causal relationship of the factors that affected the participants' appetite.

Results:  At a cumulative dose of 40 GyE, the factors that impacted the participants' appetite included xerostomia, oral mucositis, age, frequency of oral care, and analgesic medication use. At a cumulative dose of 50 GyE, the factors that affected the participants' appetite were xerostomia, sensitivity to taste, oral mucositis, dry‐mouth period (in the morning), frequency of oral care, number of artificial teeth, and analgesic medication use. The results indicate that interventions to avoid appetite suppression during particle beam therapy will differ according to a radiation schedule of 40 GyE, compared to 50 GyE.

Conclusions:  These results are important to consider when deciding how best to maintain the dietary intake of patients who are receiving particle beam therapy.
Cosmic density field reconstruction from Lyα forest data
Authors: Gallerani S. , Kitaura F. S. , Ferrara A.
Published: March 2011

We present a novel, fast method to recover the density field through the statistics of the transmitted flux in high-redshift quasar absorption spectra. The proposed technique requires the computation of the probability distribution function of the transmitted flux (PF) in the Lyαforest region and, as a sole assumption, the knowledge of the probability distribution function of the matter density field (PΔ). We show that the probability density conservation of the flux and matter density unveils a flux–density (F–Δ) relation which can be used to invert the Lyαforest without any assumption on the physical properties of the intergalactic medium. We test our inversion method atz= 3through the following steps: (i) simulation of a sample of synthetic spectra for whichPΔis known; (ii) computation ofPF; and (iii) inversion of the Lyαforest through theF–Δrelation. Our technique, when applied to only 10 observed spectra characterized by a signal-to-noise ratio≥100, provides an exquisite (relative errorεΔ≲ 12per cent in≳50 per cent of the pixels) reconstruction of the density field in≳90 per cent of the line of sight. We finally discuss strengths and limitations of the method.
MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION OF BIVALVE MOLLUSKS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION
Authors: MORENO ROLDÁN ELENA , RODRÍGUEZ ELENA ESPIGARES , VICENTE CARMEN NAVARRO , NAVAJAS MILAGROS FERNÁNDEZ‐CREHUET , ABRIL OBDULIA MORENO
Published: March 2011

We studied 127 samples of bivalve mollusks (Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis; smooth clam, Callista chione; grooved carpet‐shell clam, Tapes decussatus; and striped venus clam, Chamelea gallina) obtained in the winter and spring of 2009 from retail fish and shellfish vendors in Granada, Spain. Samples were analyzed (raw and after steaming) to determine the prevalence of Escherichia coli, mesophilic aerobes, Staphylococcus aureus and the disease‐causing microorganisms Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. E. coli was found in 25% of raw samples and 4% of cooked samples. Aerobes were found in 89% of raw samples (more than 1,000 cfu/g), and S. aureus was found in 37.0%. Only one raw sample was positive for V. parahaemolyticus. The percentage of positive findings was fourfold as high in the spring sample as in the winter sample. Contamination was most frequent in the smooth clam, and samples obtained on Mondays were more frequently contaminated than those obtained on other days of the week.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Current Spanish legislation establishes that all bivalve mollusks intended for commercial sale and human consumption must be treated at a detoxification center. The application of detoxification is of fundamental importance because it constitutes a barrier against the transmission of bacterial and viral diseases of aquatic origin. We analyzed possible differences in contamination parameters in this type of shellfish, indicated characteristics that may be affected by alterations in quality, and discussed the potential effects of these alterations on human health.
Long‐term progestin‐only contraception in humans versus animal models
Authors: Krikun Graciela , Booth Carmen J. , Buchwalder Lynn , Caze Rebeca , Rahman Mizanur , Schatz Frederick , Buhimschi Irena , Lockwood Charles
Published: March 2011

Abnormal uterine bleeding is the leading indication for discontinuation of long‐term progestin‐only contraceptives. Histological sections of endometria from long‐term progestin‐treated patients display abnormally enlarged blood vessels that are prone to bleed in a nonuniform manner. Because it has been complex to attain patients willing to complete long‐term studies, and good quality endometrial tissues have proven difficult to obtain, animal models have been used to obviate this problem. In this review, we describe these models including the guinea pig, an animal model we have previously investigated, to assess the mechanisms involved in abnormal uterine bleeding following long‐term progestin‐only contraception.
The worldwide frozen embryo reservoir: methodologies to achieve optimal results
Authors: Capalbo Antonio , Rienzi Laura , Buccheri Matteo , Maggiulli Roberta , Sapienza Fabio , Romano Stefania , Colamaria Silvia , Iussig Benedetta , Giuliani Maddalena , Palagiano Antonio , Ubaldi Filippo
Published: March 2011

Cryopreservation of the human embryo has been successfully achieved at the zygote (day 1), cleavage (day 2/3), and blastocyst (day 5) stages; however, each stage presents specific advantages and disadvantages. During the past decades, two major methods have been applied: slow freezing (equilibrium procedure) and vitrification (nonequilibrium procedure). The overwhelming majority of published data prove that the latest vitrification methods induce less cellular trauma and are a more effective cryopreservation technique of human embryos than any other versions of slow freezing. For this reason, fragmented and slow‐cleaving embryos that normally would not be recommended may be revaluated for cryopreservation by using the vitrification method. Furthermore, if laser‐assisted necrotic blastomere removal is associated with the slow‐freezing/thawing procedure, good clinical results can be obtained. Finally, the most proper embryo cleavage stage at which to perform cryopreservation has to be assessed according to clinical indications and laboratory experience.
Potential cures for endometriosis
Authors: Jacobson Tal Z.
Published: March 2011

Treatment of endometriosis usually requires highly individualized management and varies depending on the presenting symptoms and the life stage of the patient. Surgical treatment of endometriosis starts with clinical recognition of the condition that may be enhanced by narrow band imaging. Surgery is effective in pain control and enhancing fertility. Tubal ligation or salpingectomy can be considered. Robotic surgery is unlikely to create a cure, but may assist surgery. Medical treatment including aromatase inhibitors may also be effective. Tubal flushing with lipiodol increases fecundity; other immunomodulators and neuromodulators may also be effective. Complementary therapies, however, have not been subjected to randomized clinical trials. Environmental factors, diet, and lifestyle modification may be effective.
Inflammation and pregnancy: the role of the immune system at the implantation site
Authors: Mor Gil , Cardenas Ingrid , Abrahams Vikki , Guller Seth
Published: March 2011

The concept that pregnancy is associated with immune suppression has created a myth of pregnancy as a state of immunological weakness and, therefore, of increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. A challenging question is whether the maternal immune system is a friend or a foe of pregnancy. In this review, we discuss data associated to the role of the immune system during pregnancy. We propose a new paradigm in terms of the fetal–maternal immune interaction as well as the immunological response of the mother to microorganism. Our challenge is to better understand the immunology of pregnancy in order to deliver the appropriate treatment to patients with pregnancy complications as well as to determine public policies for the protection of pregnant women during pandemics.
Strategies to improve embryo implantation to supraphysiological rates
Authors: Setti Paolo Emanuele Levi , Bulletti Carlo
Published: March 2011

The implantation rate is reduced in the human species and a great number of embryos present developmental anomalies. The past, present, and future of artificial reproductive technology (ART) strategies to improve the chances of implantation are discussed, in addition to the social, clinical, and epidemiological aspects of a progressively lower human fertility potential. The increasing age of couples looking to become pregnant for the first time, and the general tendency of deferring motherhood, are aspects that only a long‐term social policy can address. A general proposal for oocyte and sperm cryopreservation is discussed as an option to reduce the impact of age and the possible risks of unethical use of gamete donation. Investing in gamete banking resources may be a unique option for the future.
Uterine transplantation: a promising surrogate to surrogacy?
Authors: Grynberg Michael , Ayoubi Jean‐Marc , Bulletti Carlo , Frydman Rene , Fanchin Renato
Published: March 2011

Infertility due to the inability of the uterus to carry a pregnancy ranks among the most unresolved issues in reproductive medicine. It affects millions of women worldwide who have congenital or acquired uterine affections, often requiring hysterectomy, and potentially represents a considerable fraction of the general infertile population. Patients suffering from severe uterine infertility are currently compelled to go through gestational surrogacy or adoption; both approaches, unfortunately, deprive them of the maternal experience of pregnancy and birth. Uterine transplantation represents an outstanding, yet complex, perspective to alleviating definitive uterine infertility. In the past decades, a number of scientific experiments conducted both in animals and women, focusing on uterine transplantation, have led to promising results. Collectively, these findings undoubtedly constitute a sound basis to clinically apply uterine transplantation in the near future. This paper is, however, an overview not only of the extent and limitations of accumulated scientific knowledge on uterine transplantation, but also its ethical implications, in an effort to define the actual place of such an approach among the therapeutic arsenal for alleviating infertility.
Progesterone: a pivotal hormone at menstruation
Authors: Maybin Jacqueline A. , Critchley Hilary O.D.
Published: March 2011

The human endometrium is exposed to repeated inflammation every month, culminating in tissue breakdown and menstruation. Subsequently, the endometrium has a remarkable capacity for efficient repair and remodeling to enable implantation if fertilization takes place. Endometrial function is known to be governed by the ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone. This review paper focuses on hormonal control of the cyclical tissue injury and repair that takes place in the local endometrial environment at the time of menstruation. Progesterone levels decline premenstrually as the corpus luteum regresses in the absence of pregnancy, and estradiol levels increase during the postmenstrual phase. The functional impact of these significant changes is discussed, including their immediate and downstream effects. Finally, we examine the contribution of aberrant endometrial function to the presentation of heavy menstrual bleeding and identify potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of this common gynecological problem.
Interventions in the prolongation of reproductive life in women
Authors: Barlow David H.
Published: March 2011

Women may seek to prolong their reproductive span for a variety of reasons. For many this implies reproduction at a late age, possibly driven by lifestyle decisions, but for others affected by a natural or a cancer treatment–induced premature ovarian failure it may simply mean seeking to achieve the normal reproductive span. The range of interventions now available to address the issue of prolonging reproductive life has never been greater, although several of the approaches discussed remain in the realm of future application through being dependent on ongoing scientific developments.
Stem cells in endometrium and their role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis
Authors: Figueira Paula Gabriela Marin , Abrão Mauricio Simões , Krikun Graciela , Taylor Hugh
Published: March 2011

The human endometrium is a dynamic tissue that undergoes cycles of growth and regression with each menstrual cycle. Adult progenitor stem cells are likely responsible for this remarkable regenerative capacity; these same progenitor stem cells may also have an enhanced capacity to generate endometriosis if shed in a retrograde fashion. The progenitor stem cells reside in the uterus; however, less‐committed mesenchymal stem cells may also travel from other tissues such as bone marrow to repopulate the progenitor population. Mesenchymal stem cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and may be the principle source of endometriosis outside of the peritoneal cavity when they differentiate into endometriosis in ectopic locations. Finally, besides progenitor stem cells, recent publications have identified multipotent stem cells in the endometrium. These multipotent stem cells are a readily available source of cells that are useful in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Endometrial stem cells have been used to generate chondrocytes, myocytes, neurons, and adiposites in vitro as well as to replace dopaminergic neurons in a murine model of Parkinson's disease.
Germ cell formation from embryonic stem cells and the use of somatic cell nuclei in oocytes
Authors: Pelosi Emanuele , Forabosco Antonino , Schlessinger David
Published: March 2011

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have remarkable properties of pluripotency and self‐renewal, along with the retention of chromosomal integrity. Germ cells function as a kind of “transgenerational stem cells,” transmitting genetic information from one generation to the next. The formation of putative primordial germ cells (PGCs) and germ cells from mouse and human ESCs (hESCs) has, in fact, been shown, and the apparent derivation of functional mouse male gametes has also been described. Additionally, investigators have successfully reprogrammed somatic nuclei into a pluripotent state by inserting them into ESCs or oocytes. This would enable the generation of ESCs genetically identical to the somatic cell donor and their use in cell therapy. However, these methodologies are still inefficient and their mechanisms poorly understood. Until full comprehension of these processes is obtained, clinical applications remain remote. Nevertheless, they represent promising tools in the future, enhancing methods of therapeutic cloning and infertility treatment.
Differentiation of Lactococci from 2 Greek Cheeses with Protected Designation of Origin by Phenotypic Criteria and RAPD‐PCR
Authors: Pavlidou Sofia , Bozoudi Despina , Hatzikamari Magdalini , Tzanetakis Nikolaos , Litopoulou‐Tzanetaki Evanthia
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  Seventy‐six lactococci isolates from 2 protected designation of origin (PDO) cheeses were studied for their acidification ability, proteolytic activity, and inhibitory activities as well as their intraspecies characterization by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA‐polymerase chain reaction (RAPD‐PCR). Fifty‐two of them were characterized as Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis by the SDS‐PAGE of whole‐cell proteins. The test strains increased the amount of acid in milk from 6 to 24 h as well as the quantities of amino acids on incubation for 4 d. The majority of the isolates degraded preferentially αs‐casein. The isolates from Feta differed from those of Graviera Kritis in respect of β‐casein degradation. This fragment was either not degraded or underwent a small degradation by lactococci from Feta. A stronger intensity of acidification for the isolates from Feta and a higher casein breakdown ability for those from Graviera Kritis were also recorded. Lactococci from Feta and Graviera Kritis inhibited, preferentially, the growth of Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Yersinia enterocolitica, respectively. A high heterogeneity among the isolates according to RAPD‐PCR was determined, as well as grouping of the isolates according to their source of isolation. Selected isolates from each cheese could be used as starters to make either Feta or Graviera Kritis.
Chlorine Stabilizer T‐128 Enhances Efficacy of Chlorine against Cross‐Contamination by E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella in Fresh‐Cut Lettuce Processing
Authors: Nou Xiangwu , Luo Yaguang , Hollar LaVonda , Yang Yang , Feng Hao , Millner Patricia , Shelton Daniel
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  During fresh‐cut produce processing, organic materials released from cut tissues can rapidly react with free chlorine in the wash solution, leading to the potential survival of foodborne bacterial pathogens, and cross‐contamination when the free chlorine is depleted. A reported chlorine stabilizer, T‐128, has been developed to address this problem. In this study, we evaluated the ability of T‐128 to stabilize free chlorine in wash solutions in the presence of high organic loads generated by the addition of lettuce extract or soil. Under conditions used in this study, T‐128 significantly (P < 0.001) decreased the rate of free chlorine depletion at the presence of soil. T‐128 also slightly decreased the rate of free chlorine depletion caused by the addition of lettuce extract in wash solution. Application of T‐128 significantly reduced the survival of bacterial pathogens in wash solutions with high organic loads and significantly reduced the potential of cross‐contamination, when contaminated and uncontaminated produce were washed together. However, T‐128 did not enhance the efficacy of chlorinated wash solutions for microbial reduction on contaminated iceberg lettuce. Evaluation of several produce quality parameters, including overall visual appearance, package headspace O2 and CO2 composition, and lettuce electrolyte leakage, during 15 d of storage indicated that iceberg lettuce quality and shelf life were not negatively impacted by washing fresh‐cut lettuce in chlorine solutions containing 0.1% T‐128.

Practical Application:  Reported chlorine stabilizer is shown to enhance chlorine efficacy against potential bacterial cross‐contamination in the presence of high organic loads without compromising product quality and shelf life.
Physical Properties and Microstructural Changes during Soaking of Individual Corn and Quinoa Breakfast Flakes
Authors: Medina Wenceslao T. , de la Llera Andrés A. , Condori Juan L. , Aguilera José M.
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  The importance of breakfast cereal flakes (BCF) in Western diets deserves an understanding of changes in their mechanical properties and microstructure that occur during soaking in a liquid (that is, milk or water) prior to consumption. The maximum rupture force (RF) of 2 types of breakfast flaked products (BFP)—corn flakes (CF) and quinoa flakes (QF)—were measured directly while immersed in milk with 2% of fat content (milk 2%) or distilled water for different periods of time between 5 and 300 s. Under similar soaking conditions, QF presented higher RF values than CF. Soaked flakes were freeze‐dried and their cross section and surface examined by scanning electron microscopy. Three consecutive periods (fast, gradual, and slow reduction of RF) were associated with changes in the microstructure of flakes. These changes were more pronounced in distilled water than in milk 2%, probably because the fat and other solids in milk become deposited on the flakes’ surface hindering liquid infiltration. Structural and textural modifications were primarily ascribable to the plasticizing effect of water that softened the carbohydrate/protein matrix, inducing partial collapse of the porous structure and eventually disintegration of the whole piece through deep cracks.
Antioxidant Activity of Commercial Ready‐to‐Drink Orange Juice and Nectar
Authors: Stella Suzana P. , Ferrarezi Alessandra C. , dos Santos Karina O. , Monteiro Magali
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  Total antioxidant activity (TAA), total phenolic compounds (TPC), and physicochemical characteristics of ready‐to‐drink orange juice and nectar from the most consumed brands available in Brazil were evaluated. TPC ranged from 18.7 to 54.2 mg of gallic acid/100 mL, and TAA varied from 57.88 to 349.32 μmol TEAC/100 mL ready‐to‐drink orange juice and nectar. The ascorbic acid content was the only physicochemical parameter that showed strong variation among packages and brands. Correlation of TPC with TAA showed that the higher the level of TPC the higher the TAA. Correlation of ascorbic acid content with TAA is higher for ready‐to‐drink orange juice than nectar. The same was found for the correlation of ascorbic acid content with TPC. The results confirm the contribution of the TPC to TAA.
Evidence of Cell‐Associated Proteinases from Virgibacillus sp. SK33 Isolated from Fish Sauce Fermentation
Authors: Sinsuwan Sornchai , Rodtong Sureelak , Yongsawatdigul Jirawat
Published: March 2011

Abstract: Cell‐associated proteinases from Virgibacillus sp. SK33 isolated from fish sauce fermentation were extracted and characterized. Proteinases were effectively released when washed cells were incubated in 0.3 mg/mL lysozyme in 50 mM Tris‐maleate (pH 7) at 37 °C for 2 h. Major cell‐associated proteinases exhibited molecular mass of 17, 32, and 65 kDa, but only a 32‐kDa proteinase showed strong amidolytic activity toward Suc‐Ala‐Ala‐Pro‐Phe‐AMC. Activity of all cell‐associated proteinases was completely inhibited by phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride, indicating a characteristic of serine proteinase. In addition, a 65‐kDa serine proteinase was also inhibited by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, implying a metal‐dependent characteristic. Optimum activity toward a synthetic peptide substrate was at 50 °C and pH 8 and 11. Proteinases with molecular mass of 17 and 32 kDa exhibited caseinolytic activity at 25% NaCl and activity based on a synthetic peptide substrate increased with NaCl concentrations up to 25%, suggesting their role in hydrolyzing proteins at high salt concentrations. This is the first report of liberated cell‐associated proteinases from a moderate halophile, Virgibacillus sp.

Practical Application: The cell‐associated proteinases could be extracted from Virgibacillus sp. SK 33 using lysozyme. The extracted enzyme could be applied to hydrolyze food proteins at NaCl content as high as 25%. In addition, this study demonstrated that not only extracellular but also cell‐associated proteinases are key factors contributing to protein‐degrading ability at high salt environment of Virgibacillus sp. SK 33.
Novel Photofunctional Multicomponent Rare Earth (Eu3+, Tb3+, Sm3+ and Dy3+) Hybrids with Double Cross‐linking Siloxane Covalently Bonding SiO2/ZnS Nanocomposite
Authors: Yan Bing , Zhao Yan , Li Ya‐Juan
Published: March 2011

Zinc sulfide (ZnS) quantum dot is modified with 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) to obtain MPTMS functionalized SiO2/ZnS nanocomposite. Novel rare earth/inorganic/organic hybrid materials are prepared by using 3‐(triethoxysilyl)‐propyl isocyanate (TESPIC) as an organic bridge molecule that can both coordinate to rare earth ions (Eu3+, Tb3+, Sm3+ and Dy3+) and form an inorganic Si–O–Si network with SiO2/ZnS nanocomposite after cohydrolysis and copolycondensation through a sol‐gel process. These multicomponent hybrids with double cross‐linking siloxane (TESPIC‐MPTMS) covalently bonding SiO2/ZnS and assistant ligands (Phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline, Bipy = 2,2′‐bipyridyl) are characterized and especially the photoluminescence properties of them are studied in detail. The luminescent spectra of the hybrids show the dominant excitation of TESPIC‐MPTMS‐SiO2/ZnS unit and the unique emission of rare earth ions, suggesting that TESPIC‐MPTMS‐SiO2/ZnS unit behaves as the main energy donor and effective energy transfer take place between it and rare earth ions. Besides, the luminescent performance of Bipy‐RE‐TESPIC‐MPTM‐SiO2/ZnS hybrids are superior to that of Phen‐RE‐TESPIC‐MPTMS‐SiO2/ZnS ones (RE=Eu, Tb, Sm, Dy), which reveals that Bipy or Phen only act as structural ligand within the hybrid systems.
Single Column Sequential Extraction of Ra, Nd, Th, Pa and U from a Natural Sample
Authors: Jeandel Catherine , Venchiarutti Celia , Bourquin Michael , Pradoux Catherine , Lacan François , van Beek Pieter , Riotte Jean
Published: March 2011

A new procedure allowing the sequential extraction of Ra, Nd, Th, Pa and U from the same initial natural sample (sea or river waters, particles, sediments, rocks) is proposed. Extraction recoveries were better than 90%. Procedural blanks ranged from 80 pg (for Nd) to below 1 fg, the detection limit of the MC‐ICP‐MS used (for Pa); all were negligible compared with the amounts of elements currently determined. Based on classical anionic resins attached to a peristaltic pump allowing precise flow rate control, this procedure allowed a consequent reduction of the sample size, which improved the sampling resolution and reduced the sampling cost. It also ensured a better consistency of the samples for the five tracers.
Management of juvenile ossifying fibroma of the mandible in a patient with Apert syndrome: a case report
Authors: Pattni N. , Sidhu K.K. , Rodd H.D. , Speight P.M. , Yates J.M.
Published: March 2011

Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is an uncommon craniofacial fibro‐osseous lesion distinguished by its locally aggressive behaviour and high recurrence rate. We report a unique case of a JOF of the anterior mandible in a patient with Apert syndrome. The clinical, radiological and histopathological features, along with management strategies of this distinct clinical entity are discussed.
The frequency of the equine cerebellar abiotrophy mutation in non‐Arabian horse breeds
Authors: BRAULT L. S. , PENEDO M. C. T.
Published: March 2011

Reasons for performing study: A putative mutation causative of cerebellar abiotrophy (CA), a genetic defect found almost exclusively in Arabian horses, was recently identified.

Objectives and hypothesis: To investigate the presence of the CA mutation in breeds other than Arabian and ascertain whether the mutation had been introduced into these breeds by Arabian ancestry. The CA mutation is present in breeds of horses with Arabian ancestry.

Methods: Allele‐specific PCR was used to genotype 1845 non‐Arabian horses for the CA mutation. For those breeds in which at least one carrier was identified, an additional 266 horses were genotyped to determine the frequency of the CA allele. Cerebellar abiotrophy carriers were further genotyped for a haplotype segregating with CA in Arabians.

Results: At least one CA carrier was identified in 3 breeds and the frequency of the CA allele calculated: Bashkir Curly Horses (2.8%), Trakehners (0.68%) and Welsh ponies (0.33%). Based on pedigree and haplotype analysis, CA was introduced into these breeds by Arabian ancestry. The Trakehner and Welsh pony carriers were at least half‐Arabian, while the Bashkir Curly horses appeared to have had the CA allele introduced by a single Arabian stallion used for developing the breed in the 1960s.

Conclusions: The CA mutation is present in breeds of horses that allow crossbreeding with Arabian horses and in breeds that have used Arabians as foundation stock during their development.

Potential relevance: Breeds that allow registration of horses with Arabian ancestry should have any Arabian breeding stock tested for the mutation and breeds descended from Arabian ancestry should pursue genetic testing of breeding stock to prevent the occurrence of affected foals.
Anti-inflammatory effect of Rhus verniviflua Stokes by suppression of iNOS-mediated Akt and ERK pathways: in-vitro and in-vivo studies
Authors: Jung Chang Hwa , Kim Jeong-Hyun , Kim Ji Hye , Chung Joo Hee , Choi Han-Seok , Seo Jong Bok , Shin Yong-Cheol , Kim Sung-Hoon , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: March 2011

Objectives

Rhus verniciflua Stokes (RVS), which has valuable medicinal properties, has for many years been prescribed for inflammation in east Asian medicine. Recent studies suggest that RVS has potent antioxidative, antitumor and anti-inflammatory properties.

Methods

In this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of RVS in vitro and in vivo were investigated. The ethanol extract from RVS was partitioned with different solvents in order of increasing polarity.

Key findings

Among the various extracts, the n-butanol extract displayed the most potent activity against nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species. The n-butanol extract also significantly regulates expression of nitric oxide synthase, which inhibits nitric oxide production at the transcriptional level in activated macrophages. Immunoblot analysis also showed that n-butanol extract suppresses the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt, suggesting that nitric oxide synthase suppression might be mediated via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt signaling pathways. This study also investigated whether n-butanol exerts an anti-inflammatory effect in an animal model. n-butanol extract significantly reduces carrageenan-induced mouse paw edema at 5 h.

Conclusions

These results suggest that RVS could be a promising candidate agent for inflammation prevention and combination therapy with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Oltipraz therapy in patients with liver fibrosis or cirrhosis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II trial
Authors: Kim Sang Geon , Kim Young Mi , Choi Jong Young , Han Joon-Yeol , Jang Jeong Won , Cho Se-Hyun , Um Soon Ho , Chon Chae Yoon , Lee Dong Hoo , Jang Ja-June , Yu Eunsil , Lee Young Sok
Published: March 2011

Objectives

Oltipraz, a cancer chemopreventive agent, has an anticirrhotic effect in animals. A phase II trial was designed to investigate the preliminary efficacy of oltipraz therapy in liver fibrosis or cirrhosis.

Methods

Of 83 patients who were randomized to receive placebo, oltipraz 60 mg bid or oltipraz 90 mg qd for 24 weeks, 68 completed the study without any major protocol violation. Pre- and post-treatment liver biopsies, and blood fibrosis markers were assessed.

Key findings

Twenty-four weeks of oltipraz treatment showed no significant differences in the proportions of patients showing an improvement in histological outcomes, including Ishak fibrosis score. In the oltipraz 60 mg bid group, there was a trend of decreases in hepatic collagen area and plasma transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1, a blood fibrosis marker) levels from baseline to week 24. In the per-protocol population (n = 68), decreases in plasma TGF-β1 correlated with those in the Ishak fibrosis score, suggesting that circulating TGF-β1 serves a possible indicator for fibrosis treatment.

Conclusions

No significant differences in liver histological outcomes were seen among the three treatment groups in this 24-week pilot study. Our finding indicates an association between TGF-β1 repression and improvement in the histological index of fibrosis.
A modified Tat peptide for selective intracellular delivery of macromolecules
Authors: Murphy Diarmaid J , Walker Brian , Greer Brett , Harriott Patrick , Martin S Lorraine
Published: March 2011

Objectives

The Tat peptide has been widely used for the intracellular delivery of macromolecules. The aim of this study was to modify the peptide to enable regulation of cellular uptake through a dependency on activation by proteases present in the local environment.

Methods

The native Tat peptide sequence was altered to inhibit the initial interaction of the peptide with the cell membrane through the addition of the consensus sequence for urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). uPA expression was characterised and semi-quantitatively rated in three cell lines (U251mg, MDA-MB-231 and HeLa). The modified peptide was incubated with both recombinant enzyme and with cells varying in uPA activity. Cellular uptake of the modified Tat peptide line was compared with that of the native peptide and rated according to uPA activity measured in each cell line.

Key findings

uPA activity was observed to be high in U251mg and MDA-MB-231 and low in HeLa. In MDA-MB-231 and HeLa, uptake of the modified peptide correlated with the level of uPA expression detected (93 and 52%, respectively). In U251mg, however, the uptake of the modified peptide was much less (19% observed reduction) than the native peptide despite a high level of uPA activity detected.

Conclusions

Proteolytic activation represents an interesting strategy for the targeted delivery of macromolecules using peptide-based carriers and holds significant potential for further exploitation.
The emergence of gender differences in physical aggression in the context of conflict between young peers
Authors: Hay Dale F. , Nash Alison , Caplan Marlene , Swartzentruber Jan , Ishikawa Fumiko , Vespo Jo Ellen
Published: March 2011

It is well known that a gender difference in physical aggression emerges by the preschool years. We tested the hypothesis that the gender difference is partly due to changing tactics in peer interaction. Observations of girls’ and boys’ social initiatives and reactions to opportunities for conflict were made, using the Peer Interaction Coding System (PICS) in four independent samples of children between 9 and 36 months of age, which were aggregated to form a summary data set (N= 323), divided into two age bands (below or above 24 months of age). Linear mixed‐model analyses revealed significant age by gender interactions in the use of bodily force in response to peers’ initiatives and in the tendency to use bodily force at later stages of conflicts with peers. The gender difference in use of force was not explained by differences in the use of verbal tactics. These cross‐sectional findings suggest that girls are initially more likely than boys to use reactive aggression, but then desist, whereas boys increase their use of force to defend their territory and possessions. The difference between older and younger girls likely reflects girls’ abilities to regulate their behaviour in response to social challenges and the fact that girls are explicitly socialized to yield to peers’ demands.
Temperature Variation in the Cutting Tool in End Milling
Authors: Sato Masahiko , Tamura Naoki , Tanaka Hisataka
Published: March 2011

This paper describes the cyclic temperature variation beneath the rake face of a cutting tool in end milling. A newly developed infrared radiation pyrometer equipped with two optical fibers is used to measure the temperature. A small hole is drilled in the tool insert from the underside to near the rake face, and an optical fiber is inserted in the hole. One of the optical fibers runs through the inside of the machine tool spindle and connects to the other optical fiber at the end of the spindle. Infrared rays radiating from the bottom of the hole in the tool insert during machining are accepted and transmitted to the pyrometer by the two optical fibers. For a theoretical analysis of the temperature in end milling, a cutting tool is modeled as a semi-infinite rectangular corner, and a Green’s function approach is used. Variation in tool-chip contact length in end milling is considered in the analysis. Experimentally, titanium alloy Ti–6Al–4V is machined in up and down milling with a tungsten carbide tool insert at a cutting speed of 214 m/min. In up milling, the temperature beneath the rake face increases gradually during the cutting period and reaches a maximum just after the cutting. In contrast, in down milling, the temperature increases immediately after cutting starts; it reaches a maximum and then begins to decrease during cutting. This suggests that the thermal impact to the cutting tool during heating is larger in down milling than in up milling, whereas that during cooling is larger in up milling than in down milling. Temperature variation is measured at different depths from the rake face. With increasing depth from the rake face, the temperature decreases and a time lag occurs in the temperature history. At 0.6 mm from the major cutting edge, the temperature gradient toward the inner direction of the tool insert is about 300°C/0.5 mm. The calculated and experimental results agree well.
Tool Embedded Thin Film Microsensors for Monitoring Thermal Phenomena at Tool-Workpiece Interface During Machining
Authors: Werschmoeller Dirk , Ehmann Kornel , Li Xiaochun
Published: March 2011

Existing thermal sensors for machining processes are having difficulties to reliably provide high spatial and temporal resolutions for monitoring and control of the dynamic thermal phenomena at the tool-workpiece interface during machining. This paper presents a novel approach to obtain transient tool internal temperature data reliably from a very close distance to the tool-workpiece interface. An array of nine microthin film thermocouples, fabricated using standard microfabrication methods, has been embedded into polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) cutting inserts by means of diffusion bonding. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to examine thin film sensor and host material interactions at the bonding interface and to determine optimal bonding parameters. The thin film microthermal sensors were statically and dynamically characterized by heating in a tube furnace and application of pulsed laser radiation. The embedded thin film thermal sensors exhibit good linearity, sensitivity, and extremely fast response time. The instrumented PCBN inserts were applied in machining of aluminum alloy 6061 disks at various cutting speeds and feed rates. Embedded into the PCBN inserts at numerous distances of 75–450 μm from tool rake face and 100–500 μm from tool flank face, these microsensors enabled the sensing of transient cutting temperature fields with high spatial and temporal resolutions. The temperature data obtained during cutting demonstrate the functionality of the tool embedded microthermal sensors and their value for fast, accurate, and reliable monitoring, which will be of significance for both fundamental study and in-process control of machining operations.
Influence of Flow Acceleration on Convection Heat Transfer of CO2 at Supercritical Pressures and Air in a Vertical Micro Tube
Authors: Jiang Pei-Xue , Xu Rui-Na , Li Zhi-Hui , Zhao Chen-Ru
Published: March 2011

The convection heat transfer of CO2 at supercritical pressures in a 0.0992 mm diameter vertical tube at relatively high Reynolds numbers (Rein = 6500), various heat fluxes and flow directions are investigated experimentally and numerically. The effects of buoyancy and flow acceleration resulting from the dramatic property variations are studied. The Results show that the local wall temperature varied non-linearly for both upward and downward flow when the heat flux was high. The difference in the local wall temperature between upward and downward flow is very small when the other test conditions are held the same, which indicates that for supercritical CO2 flowing in a micro tube as employed in this study, the buoyancy effect on the convection heat transfer is insignificant and the flow acceleration induced by the axial density variation with temperature is the main factor leading to the abnormal local wall temperature distribution at high heat fluxes. The predicted temperatures using the LB low Reynolds number turbulence model correspond well with the measured data. To further study the influence of flow acceleration on the convection heat transfer, air is also used as the working fluid to numerically investigate the fluid flow and heat transfer in the vertical micro tube. The results show that the effect of compressibility on the fluid flow and heat transfer of air in the vertical micro tube is significant but that the influence of thermal flow acceleration on convection heat transfer of air in a vertical micro tube is insignificant.
Saturation and Subcooled Boiling on Copper Nano-Dendrites Surfaces
Authors: El-Genk Mohamed S. , Ali Amir F.
Published: March 2011

Nucleate boiling of PF-5060 liquid on nano-dendrites surfaces is investigated at saturation and ΔTsub = 10, 20 and 30 K. The electrochemically deposited surfaces layers on 10 × 10 mm Cu substrates are ∼ 139, 171 and 220 μm thick. CHF and hMNB are significantly higher and occur at lower ΔTsat than has been reported on plane, macro-, micro- and nano-structured surfaces. CHF increases linearly 4.5%/K, while hMNB, occurring at end of the fully developed nucleate boiling region, decreases and corresponding ΔTsat increases with increased subcooling. For the 171 μm-thick surface: CHFsat of 27.8 W/cm2 increases to 63.25 W/cm2 at ΔTsub = 30 K, while saturation hMNB of 13.5 W/cm2.K decreases to 12.7 W/cm2.K at 30 K subcooling. ΔTsat at hMNB and CHF increases from 2.0 K and 2.16 K at saturation to 4.2 and 6.42 K at 30 K subcooling.
Laminar Heat Transfer on a Wall Covered With a Layer of Porous Material Simulated With a Two-Energy Equation Model
Authors: de Lemos Marcelo J. S. , Do´rea Felipe T.
Published: March 2011

This paper presents simulations for a jet impinging against a flat plane covered with a layer of a porous material. Macroscopic equations for mass, momentum and energy, for the fluid and for the porous matrix, are obtained based on the volume-average concept. The numerical technique employed for discretizing the governing equations was the control volume method with a boundary-fitted non-orthogonal coordinate system. The SIMPLE algorithm was used to handle the pressure-velocity coupling. The effect of porosity and energy model on the local distribution of Nu was analyzed. Results indicate that for low porosity materials, a substantially different Nu number is calculated depending on the energy model applied.