bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical study of highly-excited states of KRb molecule
Authors: Łobacz Piotr , Jasik Patryk , Sienkiewicz Józef
Published: October 2012

Semi-empirical adiabatic potential energy curves of highly excited states of the KRb molecule are calculated as a function of the internuclear distance R over a wide range from 3 to 150 a 0. The diatomic molecule is treated as an effective two-electron system by using the large core pseudopotentials and core polarization potentials. All calculations are performed by using the nonrelativistic CASSCF/MRCI method with accurate basis set functions. The spectroscopic constants of the calculated electronic states agree well with experimental data, including the recent ones from Lee et al., and with available theoretical results.
From massive self-dual p-forms towards gauge p-forms
Authors: Sararu Silviu-Constantin
Published: October 2012

Massive self-dual p-forms are quantized through the construction of an equivalent first-class system and then quantizing the resulting first-class system. The construction of the equivalent first-class system is achieved using the gauge unfixing and constraints conversion BF methods. The Hamiltonian path integral of the first-class system takes a manifestly Lorentz-covariant form.
Breast angiosarcoma one year after adenosquamous endometrial cancer — diagnostic pitfalls
Authors: Zdravkovic Darko , Granic Miroslav , Zdravkovic Marija , Randjelović Tomislav , Bilanović Dragoljub , Sredić Biljana , Oprić Svetlana , Ivanović Nebojsa , Nikolić Dejan , Dikić Srdjan , Toskovic Borislav
Published: October 2012

Angiosarcoma of the breast is a rare and very aggressive tumors originated from endothelial cells lining blood vessels. We report a case of a 55-year-old postmenopausal female with a primary breast angiosarcoma diagnosed just a one year after radical hysterectomy and radiation therapy due to endometrial cancer. The patient initially presented with postmenopausal bleeding. Cytology and biopsy of the endometrium were performed and endometrial adenosquamous carcinoma was diagnosed followed by radical hysterectomy and postoperative local radiatiotherapy (50 Gy). One year later patient presented with a great painful tumorous mass in the right breast. Physical examination revealed an oval tumor, located in upper and outer quadrant of the right breast, around 15 cm in diameter. Mammography and ultrasonography were performed. The angiosarcoma of the breast was confirmed by biopsy. The patient underwent radical mastectomy. Histopathology proved the diagnosis of angiosarcoma (high-grade, numerous mitoses over 10/10 HPF, necrosis, “blood lakes”, infiltrative borders). Differential diagnosis of a breast angiosarcoma should be considered in all painful breast tumours no mather the time and the location of the previous radiation treatment even if benign characteristics of these masses have been detected by mammography and breast ultrasound.
An assessment of the duration of breastfeeding in north-eastern Poland
Authors: Romaszko Jerzy , Czerwionka-Szaflarska Mieczysława , Piekuś Natalia , Skajewska Barbara , Sielużycka Aurelia , Romaszko Ewa , Kwiatkowski Andrzej , Gawryjołek Julia , Buciński Adam
Published: October 2012

In 2005, the European Commission presented a report on the current situation associated with the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding in 29 European countries. According to the report, exclusive breastfeeding was undertaken by 71% of the mothers in Poland. We concluded that an attempt shall be made to verify these data values. The aim of our survey was to assess the duration of breastfeeding and identify the potential medical and social factors affecting this parameter in Poland. We surveyed 427 women aged 18 to 40 from Northeastern Poland. The duration of breastfeeding and the presence of selected potential factors that may affect this parameter were assessed in 591 children. The mean duration of exclusive breastfeeding was 4.73 months with breastfeeding being initiated in 97.87% and continued beyond 12 months (following the introduction of complementary foods) in 32.49 % of the children. In our region, nearly all mothers attempt to breastfeed. Exclusive breastfeeding is continued by 75.46% and 29.27% of the mothers by 3 and 6 months of the baby’s life. Breastfeeding with complementary feeding is continued by 56.01% and 32.49% of the mothers by 6 and 12 months of the baby’s life.
Zyxin-VASP interactions alter actin regulatory activity in zyxin-VASP complexes
Authors: Grange Jacob , Moody James , Ascione Marc , Hansen Marc
Published: October 2012

Cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesions are sites of dramatic actin rearrangements and where actin-membrane connections are tightly regulated. Zyxin-VASP complexes localize to sites of cell-cell and cell-substrate adhesion and function to regulate actin dynamics and actin-membrane connections at these sites. To accomplish these functions, zyxin recruits VASP to cellular sites via proline-rich binding sites near zyxin’s amino terminus. While the prevailing thought has been that zyxin simply acts as a scaffold protein for VASP binding, the identification of a LIM domain-VASP interaction could complicate this view. Here we assess how zyxin-VASP binding through both the proline rich motifs and the LIM domains alters specific VASP functions. We find that neither individual interaction alters VASP’s actin regulatory activities. In contrast, however, we find that full-length zyxin dramatically reduces VASPmediated actin bundling and actin assembly. Taken together, these results suggest a model where zyxin-VASP complexes occur in complex organizations with suppressed actin regulatory activity.
Nutritional, antioxidant, and glycaemic characteristics of new functional bread
Authors: Mikušová Lucia , Gereková Petra , Kocková Monika , Šturdík Ernest , Valachovičová Martina , Holubková Andrea , Vajdák Marek , Mikuš Ľubomír
Published: October 2012

New wheat-rye bread fortified with cereal dietary fibre, β-glucan hydrogel, and sourdough starter culture was designed in this study. The impact of these additives on nutritional composition and antioxidant properties was investigated. Functional bread with extruded wheat bran (10.0 %), cereal β-glucan hydrogel (12.5 %), and lactobacilli starter culture was compared with traditional wheat-rye bread (control). The contents of basic nutrients (protein, fat, etc.), dietary fibre, biologically active compounds (polyphenols and flavonoids), qualitative and quantitative analysis of simple saccharides and phenolic acids (by HPLC) were analysed in both bread types. Antioxidant activity, measured by two spectrophotometric methods (2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid); ABTS and di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrasyl); DPPH, was also evaluated. The effect of the addition of the above ingredients, as compared with traditionally prepared bread, was examined in the postprandial study, in which glucose and insulin levels were determined. In comparison with the control bread, higher amounts of dietary fibre, flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity were attained in the designed bread. Consumption of the designed bread led to reduced glucose levels in healthy males (n = 10) 120 min after the ingestion of the functional bread compared with the control (p < 0.048). No statistically significant change in the insulin response in the volunteers was observed after consumption of the designed bread compared with the control.
Mercury characterisation in urban particulate matter
Authors: Zvěřina Ondřej , Červenka Rostislav , Komárek Josef , Sysalová Jiřina
Published: October 2012

A five-step sequential extraction procedure was proposed in order to assess the distribution of mercury (Hg) forms in urban particulate matter (PM): exchangeable, HCl-soluble, organic-bound, elemental and other slightly soluble Hg species, mercury(II) sulphide (HgS), and residual Hg. This process was applied to the analysis of urban dust samples collected at locations in Prague (Czech Republic) with high traffic density. In addition to sequential extractions, thermal desorption analysis was performed. The differences in Hg concentrations between untreated and thermally treated samples were indicated as the thermally releasable amount of Hg. For the study of PM-adsorbing capacity, Hg vapours were passed through the samples as long as the enrichment of materials was observed. The retained elemental Hg was readily released by thermal desorption. All Hg analyses were based on the highly sensitive pyrolysis technique of atomic absorption spectrometry using the mercury analyser AMA-254.
Facile synthesis of 3-substituted quinazoline-2,4-dione and 2,3-di-substituted quinazolinone derivatives
Authors: Farouk Mahmoud , Alrokayan Salman , Imran Ahamad , Abu-Salah Khalid , Ghazzali Mohamed , Al-Farhan Khalid , El-Gohary Salem , Adly Mamdouh
Published: October 2012

3-Substituted quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione and 2,3-di-substituted quinazolineone derivatives attract considerable interest due to their pharmacological properties. In this paper, we report the synthesis of N-substituted-3-nitrophthalimide derivatives II–III, the reactions of phthalimide III with amines, hydrazines, and amino acid derivatives to synthesise a small library of 3-substituted-5-nitroquinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones IV–XIV and 2,3-di-substituted-6-nitro-quinazolineones XVIII–XIX.
Distribution, lithotypes and mineralogical study of newly formed thermogenic travertines in Northern Euboea and Eastern Central Greece
Authors: Kanellopoulos Christos
Published: October 2012

In the northwestern part of Euboea Island and the neighbouring part of the mainland in eastern central Greece, many hot springs exist. We collected and analysed the newly formed material around the hot springs. The samples were studied at the lab with X-Ray Diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). In all cases the studied materials were thermogenic travertine presenting many different lithotypes. The studied travertine deposits consist mainly of aragonite and calcite, but in some cases, as the main mineral phase, an amorphous hydrous ferric oxyhydroxide, probably ferrihydrite (creating a laminated iron-rich travertine deposit), was identified. The lithotypes that were identified were of great variety (spicular, shrubs, etc). Some of them (pisoliths, rafts and foam rock types) are quite rare and one of them (framework type) is described for the first time. Morphological data and field observations suggest possible inorganic and organic controls on carbonate precipitation. Similar lithotypes have been recorded at Mammoth hot springs, Yellowstone National Park in USA and at Rapolano Terme, Italy.
Can High Schools Reduce College Enrollment Gaps With a New Counseling Model?
Authors: Stephan Jennifer L. , Rosenbaum James E.
Published: October 2012

Despite planning college, disadvantaged students are less likely to enroll in college, particularly 4-year colleges. Beyond cost and academic achievement, previous research finds that a lack of college-related social resources poses barriers. However, little research investigates whether schools can help. We examine whether, how, and for whom a new counseling model aimed at providing college-related social resources may improve college enrollment. Following nearly all seniors in Chicago Public Schools from senior year through the fall after high school, we find that coaches may improve the types of colleges that students attend by getting students to complete key actions. It is important that the most disadvantaged students appear to benefit. This research suggests that targeting social resources may improve the high-school-to-college transition for disadvantaged students.
Recent trend of bacterial aetiology of lower respiratory tract infection in a tertiary care centre of Nepal
Authors: Mishra SK , Kattel HP , Acharya J , Shah NP , Shah AS , Sherchand JB , Rijal BP , Pokhrel BM
Published: October 2012

INTRODUCTION: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are among the most common infectious diseases of humans. This study focused on determining the recent trend of bacterial aetiology of LRTIs among the patients attending Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH) in Kathmandu. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a prospective study conducted over a period of six months in the bacteriology laboratory of TUTH. A total of 1120 specimens representing lower respiratory tract were received from patients with suspected LRTIs. The specimens were collected and processed according to standard methodology. RESULTS: Respiratory pathogens were recovered from 44.4% cases (n=497). Gram-negative bacteria were recovered in 84.1% (n=488). Bacteria were more commonly recovered from endotracheal secretion (41/61, 67.2%) than in sputum (454/1039, 43.7%) and bronchial washing (2/20, 10%). Ninety-one percent (n=454) growth was monomicrobial while the rest accounted for mixed growth. Among the organisms isolated, Haemophilus influenzae (112, 21%) was the most predominant pathogen followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (102, 19.1%), Pseudomonads (91, 17.1%), Acinetobacter baumannii calcoaceticus complex (60, 10.9%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (46, 8.6%), Escherichia coli (37, 6.9%). CONCLUSIONS: H. influenzae and S. pneumoniae were the most common Gram-negative and Grampositive bacterial isolates recovered, respectively from LRTIs urging for monitoring and surveillance of these pathogens.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v1i1.6639 Int J Infect Microbiol 2012;1(1):3-8
Rapid HIV diagnostics
Authors: Afridi NK
Published: October 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v1i1.6937Int J Infect Microbiol 2012;1(1):1-2
Reproductive tract infections among women attending gynaecology outpatient department
Authors: Bohara MS , Joshi AB , Lekhak B , Gurung G
Published: October 2012

BACKGROUND: Women often suffer silently with reproductive tract infections (RTIs) and sexually active young women are particularly susceptible to sexually transmitted Infections (STIs). The study aimed to know the prevalence of reproductive tract infections among married women attending Gynecological Outpatients Department of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Kathmandu, Nepal. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A hospital based crosssectional design was used to investigate RTIs among women attending outpatients department of Gynae and Obstetrics, TUTH from July to November, 2006. A total of 208 samples from 104 women were examined microscopically and culture using standard microbial technique to investigate etiological agents of RTIs. Study samples were selected and examined on the basis of either having discharge or complaints of lower abdominal pain. RESULTS: A total of 208 samples collected from 104 patients were examined and 26% samples were positive for different causative agents of RTIs. Thirty percent of women reported having symptoms related to RTIs and was common in young married women. Nineteen percent had STIs. Thirteen percent had trichomonasis and 7% had gonorrhoea identified in Gram stained smears and cultures. Many women had endogenous RTIs. Bacterial vaginosis was diagnosed in 15% and vaginal candidiasis in 25% of women. CONCLUSIONS: Young married women have a high prevalence of RTIs. Education and outreach programs are needed to reduce embarrassment and lack of knowledge related to RTIs. The low socio?economic status of women appears to have influence on high rate of infections. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijim.v1i1.6940Int J Infect Microbiol 2012;1(1):29-33
Prevalence Of Urinary Tract Infection During Pregnancy
Authors: Parveen Kawser , Momen Afroza , Begum Arzumath Ara , Begum Monowara
Published: October 2012

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most common bacterial infections during pregnancy. Untreated UTI can be associated with serious obstetric complications. This cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of UTI among pregnant women attending in two private tertiary medical college hospital of Dhaka. A total of 250 pregnant women were enrolled in this study. UTI was diagnosed using mid stream urine (MSU) culture. Using > 105 colony forming unit per milliliter as significant level of bacteriuria, the prevalence was found to be 26.0%. There was a high incidence in 2125 years age group (44.61%). There was also high incidence of infection in the third trimester of pregnancy (78.46%) comparid to first (9.23%) and second trimester (12.30%). Multiparty is associated with increased urinary tract infection in pregnancy. Regarding education 10% were literate and 90% were illiterate. Prevalence of bacteriuria was 94% in women who had past history of urinary tract infection. 80% were sexually active. E.coli was the most frequently isolated pathogen (88.15%).These findings underscores the importance of screening all pregnant women for significant bacteriuria, so that positive cases should be treated subsequently with antibiotics in order to reduce the adverse effects on both maternal and fetal health DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i2.12200 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (02): 8-12
Study of Safety of Short-stay Thyroid Surgery
Authors: Mahmud Khaled , Faruque MN , Ahmed Omar Aziz , Faisal KA
Published: October 2012

Following surgical procedures, the duration of hospital stay has undergone a significant reduction in recent years. However, there are some risks associated with short-stay thyroid surgery. An analysis has been made of data from patients who underwent shortstay thyroid surgery, analyzing the complications associated with this procedure. Overall 70 consecutive patients undergoing thyroidectomy in 2009 and 2010 were prospectively analyzed. Post-operative care included routine ward overnight observation. The discharge criteria were: stable vital signs; apyretic; no wound or airway problems; tolerating diet; and established autonomy at discharge. Data were collected regarding patients discharge criteria status, length of hospital stay and readmission, as well as morbidity (post-operative haemorrhage, recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and hypocalcaemia) and mortality. This series comprised 30 total thyroidectomies, 38 hemi-thyroidectomies and 2 isthmusectomies. No cases of death or post-operative haemorrhage occurred in any of these patients. Permanent unilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve injury was observed in 1 patient (1.42%). Transient postoperative hypocalcaemia occurred in 6 patients, whereas permanent post-operative hypocalcaemia was observed in 2 patients (2.85%); 2 patients were re-admitted and required early calcium supplementation. Five patients failed to tolerate the diet during the immediate post-operative period. The average duration of hospital stay was 1.02 days. Considering the 2 patients who required re-admission due to hypocalcaemia, the total length of hospital stay was 1.05 days. In conclusion, the one-day surgery model is safe and effective in patients undergoing surgery for thyroid disorders. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i2.12201 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (02): 13-17
Outcome Of Induction Of Labour By Intravaginal Prostaglandin Versus Intravenous Oxytocin In a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Pervin Mst Shahana , Haque Shamima , Rahman Jahanara
Published: October 2012

Aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness and safety of intravaginal misoprostol VS intravenous oxytocin in induction of labour and to compare the induction delivery interval between prostaglandin induction and oxytocin induction and to detect maternal and foetal outcome between prostaglandin induction and oxytocin induction and also reduce the rate of caesarean section . A prospective, randomized trial was carried out in one hundred singleton pregnant women admitted in Dhaka National Medical Hospital during the period of January 2006 to December 2006. Women who had unfavorable cervix (Bishops score<) were selected. 50 of them received 50 mgm misoprostol intravaginally for three doses, 6 hourly. Another 50 patient received intravenous starting from 10 mU /ml up to 40mU.Thirty-nine patients out of 50 patients of misoprostol group achieved normal vaginal delivery. Rest eleven patients ended by caesarean section. 82% of this group delivered within 10 hours. The maximum required dose was 50-150mgm. Maternal complications were PPH 2%. Neonatal outcome were satisfactory. Thirty  six patients out of 50 patients of Oxytocin group achieved normal vaginal delivery. Rest fourteen patients ended by caesarean section. Only 66% of this group delivered within 10 hours. The maximum required dose was 40mU/ml. From the study it was found that intravaginal misoprostol is well tolerated and very effect then intravenous oxytocin in induction of labour in unfavorable cervix. It certainly reduces the number of caesarean section. It is cost effective. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i2.12213 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (02): 30-33
Post Operative Tuberculous wound infection: A report of 6 cases
Authors: Begum Hosne Ara
Published: October 2012

Post-operative wound infection by tuberculosis may cause delayed wound healing. Such wound infection by tuberculosis was found in 6 cases in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Dhaka National Medical College & Hospital from July 2000 to December 2009. All patients had no complaints except for delayed wound healing. None had history of exposure or relevant past history of tuberculosis. Tuberculous infection was diagnosed by histopathological examination of the tissue from the wound. All of the patients were treated with standard anti-tubercular drugs for 6 months and they responded well. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jdnmch.v17i2.12217 J. Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2011; 17 (02): 49-51
Enhancement of Hydrogen Storage Behavior of Complex Hydrides via Bimetallic Nanocatalysts Doping
Authors: Srinivasan Sesha S. , Sharma Prakash C.
Published: October 2012

Pristine complex quaternary hydride (LiBH4/2LiNH2) and its destabilized counterpart (LiBH4/2LiNH2/nanoMgH2) have recently shown promising reversible hydrogen storage capacity under moderate operating conditions. The destabilization of complex hydride via nanocrystalline MgH2 apparently lowers the thermodynamic heat values and thus enhances the reversible hydrogen storage behavior at moderate temperatures. However, the kinetics of these materials is rather low and needs to be improved for on-board vehicular applications. Nanocatalyst additives such as nano Ni, nano Fe, nano Co, nano Mn and nano Cu at low concentrations on the complex hydride host structures have demonstrated a reduction in the decomposition temperature and overall increase in the hydrogen desorption reaction rates. Bi-metallic nanocatalysts such as the combination of nano Fe and nano Ni have shown further pronounced kinetics enhancement in comparison to their individual counterparts. Additionally, the vital advantage of using bi-metallic nanocatalysts is to enable the synergistic effects and characteristics of the two transitional nanometal species on the host hydride matrix for the optimized hydrogen storage behavior.
Carbon Xerogel Catalyst for NO Oxidation
Authors: Sousa Juliana P. S. , Pereira Manuel F. R. , Figueiredo José L.
Published: October 2012

Carbon xerogels were prepared by the polycondensation of resorcinol and formaldehyde using three different solution pH values and the gels were carbonized at three different temperatures. Results show that it is possible to tailor the pore texture of carbon xerogels by adjusting the pH of the initial solution and the carbonization temperature. Materials with different textural properties were obtained and used as catalysts for NO oxidation at room temperature. The NO conversions obtained with carbon xerogels were quite high, showing that carbon xerogels are efficient catalysts for NO oxidation. A maximum of 98% conversion for NO was obtained at initial concentration of NO of 1000 ppm and 10% of O2. The highest NO conversions were obtained with the samples presenting the highest surface areas. The temperature of reaction has a strong influence on NO oxidation: the conversion of NO decreases with the increase of reaction temperature.
Determination of the Absolute Configuration of Aegelinol by Crystallization of Its Inclusion Complex with β-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Elasaad Kossay , Alkhatib Racha , Hennebelle Thierry , Norberg Bernadette , Wouters Johan
Published: October 2012

The absolute configuration and structure of aegelinol, a pyranocoumarin isolated from Ferulago asparagifolia Boiss (Apiaceae), has been determined by crystallography. Crystal structure of the inclusion complex of aegelinol in β-cyclodextrin was determined (a = 15.404(1) Å, b = 15.281(1) Å, c = 17.890(1) Å, α = 99.662(1), β = 113.4230(1), γ = 102.481(1)°, P1; R1 = 6.71%) and allowed unambiguous determination of the absolute configuration of the stereogenic center of aegelinol. The pyranocoumarin guest is included within the cylindrical cavity formed by dimeric β-cyclodextrin molecules with a head-to-head arrangement. Crystal structure of aegelinol alone was also determined (a = 6.8921(3) Å, b = 11.4302(9) Å, c = 44.964(3) Å, P212121; R1 = 4.44%) and allowed precise determination of its geometry. Aegelinol crystallizes with three molecules in the asymmetric unit held together by H-bonds and π-stacking interactions.
An Integrated Risk Management Model for Source Water Protection Areas
Authors: Chiueh Pei-Te , Shang Wei-Ting , Lo Shang-Lien
Published: October 2012

Watersheds are recognized as the most effective management unit for the protection of water resources. For surface water supplies that use water from upstream watersheds, evaluating threats to water quality and implementing a watershed management plan are crucial for the maintenance of drinking water safe for humans. The aim of this article is to establish a risk assessment model that provides basic information for identifying critical pollutants and areas at high risk for degraded water quality. In this study, a quantitative risk model that uses hazard quotients for each water quality parameter was combined with a qualitative risk model that uses the relative risk level of potential pollution events in order to characterize the current condition and potential risk of watersheds providing drinking water. In a case study of Taipei Source Water Area in northern Taiwan, total coliforms and total phosphorus were the top two pollutants of concern. Intensive tea-growing and recreational activities around the riparian zone may contribute the greatest pollution to the watershed. Our risk assessment tool may be enhanced by developing, recording, and updating information on pollution sources in the water supply watersheds. Moreover, management authorities could use the resultant information to create watershed risk management plans.
Tissue Engineering of Corneal Endothelium
Authors: Mimura Tatsuya , Yokoo Seiichi , Yamagami Satoru
Published: October 2012

Human corneal endothelial cells (HCECs) do not replicate after wounding. Therefore, corneal endothelial deficiency can result in irreversible corneal edema. Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) allows selective replacement of the diseased corneal endothelium. However, DSAEK requires a donor cornea and the worldwide shortage of corneas limits its application. This review presents current knowledge on the tissue engineering of corneal endothelium using cultured HCECs. We also provide our recent work on tissue engineering for DSAEK grafts using cultured HCECs. We reconstructed DSAEK grafts by seeding cultured DiI-labelled HCECs on collagen sheets. Then HCEC sheets were transplanted onto the posterior stroma after descemetorhexis in the DSAEK group. Severe stromal edema was detected in the control group, but not in the DSAEK group throughout the observation period. Fluorescein microscopy one month after surgery showed numerous DiI-labelled cells on the posterior corneal surface in the DSAEK group. Frozen sections showed a monolayer of DiI-labelled cells on Descemet’s membrane. These findings indicate that cultured adult HCECs, transplanted with DSAEK surgery, maintain corneal transparency after transplantation and suggest the feasibility of performing DSAEK with HCECs to treat endothelial dysfunction.
Echinohalimane A, a Bioactive Halimane-Type Diterpenoid from a Formosan Gorgonian Echinomuricea sp. (Plexauridae)
Authors: Chung Hsu-Ming , Hu Li-Chung , Yen Wei-Hsuan , Su Jui-Hsin , Lu Mei-Chin , Hwang Tsong-Long , Wang Wei-Hsien , Sung Ping-Jyun
Published: October 2012

A new halimane-type diterpenoid, echinohalimane A (1), was isolated from a gorgonian, identified as Echinomuricea sp. The structure of 1 was determined by spectroscopic methods and this compound was found to exhibit cytotoxicity toward various tumor cells and display an inhibitory effect on the release of elastase by human neutrophils. Echinohalimane A (1) is the first halimane analogue from the marine organisms belonging to phylum Cnidaria.
UV-Induced Radical Photo-Polymerization: A Smart Tool for Preparing Polymer Electrolyte Membranes for Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Nair Jijeesh R. , Chiappone Annalisa , Destro Matteo , Jabbour Lara , Meligrana Giuseppina , Gerbaldi Claudio
Published: October 2012

In the present work, the preparation and characterization of quasi-solid polymer electrolyte membranes based on methacrylic monomers and oligomers, with the addition of organic plasticizers and lithium salt, are described. Noticeable improvements in the mechanical properties by reinforcement with natural cellulose hand-sheets or nanoscale microfibrillated cellulose fibers are also demonstrated. The ionic conductivity of the various prepared membranes is very high, with average values approaching 10-3 S cm-1 at ambient temperature. The electrochemical stability window is wide (anodic breakdown voltages > 4.5 V vs. Li in all the cases) along with good cyclability in lithium cells at ambient temperature. The galvanostatic cycling tests are conducted by constructing laboratory-scale lithium cells using LiFePO4 as cathode and lithium metal as anode with the selected polymer electrolyte membrane as the electrolyte separator. The results obtained demonstrate that UV induced radical photo-polymerization is a well suited method for an easy and rapid preparation of easy tunable quasi-solid polymer electrolyte membranes for energy storage devices.
The Final Link: Tapping the Power of Chemical Genetics to Connect the Molecular and Biologic Functions of Mitotic Protein Kinases
Authors: Lera Robert F. , Burkard Mark E.
Published: October 2012

During mitosis, protein kinases coordinate cellular reorganization and chromosome segregation to ensure accurate distribution of genetic information into daughter cells. Multiple protein kinases contribute to mitotic regulation, modulating molecular signaling more rapidly than possible with gene expression. However, a comprehensive understanding of how kinases regulate mitotic progression remains elusive. The challenge arises from multiple functions and substrates, a large number of “bystander” phosphorylation events, and the brief window in which all mitotic events transpire. Analog-sensitive alleles of protein kinases are powerful chemical genetic tools for rapid and specific interrogation of kinase function. Moreover, combining these tools with advanced proteomics and substrate labeling has identified phosphorylation sites on numerous protein targets. Here, we review the chemical genetic tools available to study kinase function and identify substrates. We describe how chemical genetics can also be used to link kinase function with cognate phosphorylation events to provide mechanistic detail. This can be accomplished by dissecting subsets of kinase functions and chemical genetic complementation. We believe a complete “chemical genetic toolbox” will ultimately allow a comprehensive understanding of how protein kinases regulate mitosis.
Floating Chip Mounting System Driven by Repulsive Force of Permanent Magnets for Multiple On-Site SPR Immunoassay Measurements
Authors: Horiuchi Tsutomu , Tobita Tatsuya , Miura Toru , Iwasaki Yuzuru , Seyama Michiko , Inoue Suzuyo , Takahashi Jun-ichi , Haga Tsuneyuki , Tamechika Emi
Published: October 2012

We have developed a measurement chip installation/removal mechanism for a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) immunoassay analysis instrument designed for frequent testing, which requires a rapid and easy technique for changing chips. The key components of the mechanism are refractive index matching gel coated on the rear of the SPR chip and a float that presses the chip down. The refractive index matching gel made it possible to optically couple the chip and the prism of the SPR instrument easily via elastic deformation with no air bubbles. The float has an autonomous attitude control function that keeps the chip parallel in relation to the SPR instrument by employing the repulsive force of permanent magnets between the float and a float guide located in the SPR instrument. This function is realized by balancing the upward elastic force of the gel and the downward force of the float, which experiences a leveling force from the float guide. This system makes it possible to start an SPR measurement immediately after chip installation and to remove the chip immediately after the measurement with a simple and easy method that does not require any fine adjustment. Our sensor chip, which we installed using this mounting system, successfully performed an immunoassay measurement on a model antigen (spiked human-IgG) in a model real sample (non-homogenized milk) that included many kinds of interfering foreign substances without any sample pre-treatment. The ease of the chip installation/removal operation and simple measurement procedure are suitable for frequent on-site agricultural, environmental and medical testing.
Physically-Based Reduced Order Modelling of a Uni-Axial Polysilicon MEMS Accelerometer
Authors: Ghisi Aldo , Mariani Stefano , Corigliano Alberto , Zerbini Sarah
Published: October 2012

In this paper, the mechanical response of a commercial off-the-shelf, uni-axial polysilicon MEMS accelerometer subject to drops is numerically investigated. To speed up the calculations, a simplified physically-based (beams and plate), two degrees of freedom model of the movable parts of the sensor is adopted. The capability and the accuracy of the model are assessed against three-dimensional finite element simulations, and against outcomes of experiments on instrumented samples. It is shown that the reduced order model provides accurate outcomes as for the system dynamics. To also get rather accurate results in terms of stress fields within regions that are prone to fail upon high-g shocks, a correction factor is proposed by accounting for the local stress amplification induced by re-entrant corners.
Temperature and Relative Humidity Estimation and Prediction in the Tobacco Drying Process Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Víctor , Baladrón Carlos , Gomez-Gil Jaime , Ruiz-Ruiz Gonzalo , Navas-Gracia Luis M. , Aguiar Javier M. , Carro Belén
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a system based on an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for estimating and predicting environmental variables related to tobacco drying processes. This system has been validated with temperature and relative humidity data obtained from a real tobacco dryer with a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). A fitting ANN was used to estimate temperature and relative humidity in different locations inside the tobacco dryer and to predict them with different time horizons. An error under 2% can be achieved when estimating temperature as a function of temperature and relative humidity in other locations. Moreover, an error around 1.5 times lower than that obtained with an interpolation method can be achieved when predicting the temperature inside the tobacco mass as a function of its present and past values with time horizons over 150 minutes. These results show that the tobacco drying process can be improved taking into account the predicted future value of the monitored variables and the estimated actual value of other variables using a fitting ANN as proposed.
Arenavirus Evasion of Host Anti-Viral Responses
Authors: Hayes Melissa , Salvato Maria
Published: October 2012

The innate response to infection by an Old World arenavirus is initiated and mediated by extracellular and intracellular receptors, and effector molecules. In response, the invading virus has evolved to inhibit these responses and create the best environment possible for replication and spread. Here, we will discuss both the host’s response to infection with data from human infection and lessons learned from animal models, as well as the multitude of ways the virus combats the resulting immune response. Finally, we will highlight recent work identifying TLR2 as an innate sensor for arenaviruses and how the TLR2-dependent response differs depending on the pathogenicity of the strain.
Do Older Adults Have Social Lifestyles That Place Fewer Demands on Hearing?
Authors: Wu Yu-Hsiang , Bentler Ruth A.
Published: October 2012

Background:Listening demand, or auditory lifestyle, is an important factor that needs to be considered when selecting a hearing aid and specific amplification features. Although elderly adults often report having fewer listening demands, auditory lifestyles of people in different
age groups have not been objectively quantified and compared. Although it is assumed that the social lifestyles of older adults, e.g., retirement, place fewer demands on hearing, this assumption has not been examined empirically.Purpose:The purposes of the current study were to (1)
objectively characterize and compare the auditory lifestyle of younger and older adults with hearing impairment and (2) examine the relationships between age, social lifestyle, and auditory lifestyle.Research Design:This is a nonexperimental study using a correlational design.Study
Sample:Twenty-seven adults with bilateral hearing impairment aged 40‐88 yr were recruited and served as subjects.Data Collection and Analysis:To objectively quantify auditory lifestyle, participants carried noise dosimeters to measure sound levels in their daily lives for
1 wk. To help interpret the dosimeter data, participants used paper-and-pencil journals to describe their listening activities and environments. The auditory lifestyle was also subjectively quantified by the Auditory Lifestyle and Demand Questionnaire (ALDQ). Three self-report inventories
were used to characterize participants' social lifestyles: Social Network Index, Welin Activity Scale, and Social Convoy Questionnaire.Results:A total of 1,267 journal entries covering 2,032 hr of dosimeter recordings were obtained from participants for analyses. Although younger and
older participants reported spending comparable time in a given category of listening event, the dosimeter-measured sound level was higher for younger listeners. For auditory lifestyle quantified by dosimeter, correlation analyses revealed that older age was associated with lower Social Network
Index scores (smaller social networks) and fewer listening demands. Regression models further indicated that the Social Network Index score more accurately predicted listening demand than age. Finally, path analysis suggested that the effect of age on listening demand was mediated by the Social
Network Index score. Self-report auditory lifestyle measured by the ALDQ was not associated with age and social lifestyle.Conclusions:The results indicate that older listeners tend to encounter quieter listening situations than younger listeners. The data are also consistent with the
hypothesis that older adults have less active social lifestyles that place fewer demands on hearing. Therefore, the current study suggests the important role of social lifestyle in listening demand and the need to consider this factor in clinical management of hearing loss.
A Qualitative Review of Occupational Therapists' Listening Behaviors and Experiences When Caring for Patients in Palliative or Hospice Care
Authors: Davis Janis , Asuncion Michelle , Rabello Jennifer , Silangcruz Caitlin , van Dyk Elizabeth
Published: October 2012

Listening behaviors and experiences of occupational therapists working with patients in palliative or hospice care were investigated. Because the U.S. Government's Healthy People 2020 mandates better listening in health care, this research is timely. A qualitative design using semi-structured interviews and member checks provided researchers with rich text that revealed patterns and themes associated with listening behaviors, listening experiences, and listening training of occupational therapists working in palliative and hospice care. Participants were selected using typical case and snowball sampling. Six participants from two distinct geographic regions of the United States agreed to be interviewed. Interviews revealed four themes: working within the OT Practice Framework, key listening behaviors used in this context, listening barriers and challenges, and clinical competence and training needed prior to working with this population. This small sample size represents only a fraction of the occupational therapists working in palliative or hospice care, yet provides a foundation for further research and underscores the importance of listening behaviors.
Autoimmune Hepatitis Induced by Nitrofurantoin. The Importance of the Autoantibodies for an Early Diagnosis of Immune Disease
Authors: Sherigar Jagannath M. , Fazio Richard , Zuang Minsheng , Arsura Edward
Published: October 2012

Nitrofurantoin has been in use since 1953 as an effective agent for the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection. It is associated with a wide range of adverse drug reactions. Chronic active hepatitis has increasingly been observed and many cases have been reported with case fatalities. We present a case of nitrofurantoin induced chronic active hepatitis and briefly review the serology and clinico pathological features of 57 similar cases reported in English literature. The consistent presence of antinuclear antibody, anti smooth muscle antibody, elevated immunoglobulin and pathological feature suggests an immunologic mechanism. Complete recovery is possible in most cases if medication is discontinued in time. Steroids may play a role in management if no improvement occurs despite discontinuation of medication. We suggest all patients who are on prolonged nitrofurantoin therapy be followed up with anti nuclear antibody, anti smooth muscle antibody, serum immunoglobulin and hepatic panel every three months.
Persistence and adherence of solifenacin treatment for Japanese women with overactive bladder
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru , Nukui Akinori , Kurokawa Shinsuke , Morita Tatsuo
Published: October 2012

Persistence and adherence of overactive bladder (OAB) medication have reported to be generally lower in real-world setting as compared with those in clinical trials. However, this information in Japanese population has not been well addressed. Medical records were reviewed for solifenacin as an initial treatment for 172 women with OAB symptom to examine medication persistence, switching, adherence, and the reasons for discontinuation. The associations between persistence and the reasons for discontinuation as well as concomitant conditions regarded as OAB-related risk factors were assessed. The 6-month and 1-year persistence rate of solifenacin were 39.8% and 27.8%, respectively. Consequently, 121 patients (70.3%) discontinued solifenacin, of whom 18 (14.9%) patients switched to other OAB drugs and 9 (7.4%) patients restarted solifenacin. Thus, the adherence rate was 66.8%. More women discontinued solifenacin owing to symptom resolution (41.3%) rather than unfavorable outcomes such as adverse effects (12.4%) and lack of efficacy (21.5%). However, such reason for discontinuation was not the determinant of persistence of solifenacin. There was a non-significant trend towards higher persistence for those with OAB-related risk factors. Japanese women discontinued solofenacin treatment with various reasons in real-world practice, resulting in much lower persistence as compared with clinical trials. A further prospective study in a larger cohort of patients is awaited to better assess their persistence and adherence and understand exact efficacy and tolerability of antimuscarinics for Japanese patients with OAB.
Decompressive craniectomy in patients with cerebral infarction due to malignant vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Tuzgen Saffet , Kucukyuruk Baris , Aydin Seckin , Ozlen Fatma , Kizilkilic Osman , Abuzayed Bashar
Published: October 2012

Aim: The authors present their experience and the clinical results in decompressive craniectomy (DC) in patients with vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Materials and Methods: Between 2002 and 2010, six patients underwent DC due to cerebral infarct and edema secondary to vasospasm after aneurysmal SAH. Four patients were male, and two were female. The age of patients ranged between 33 and 60 (mean: 47,6 ± 11,4). The follow up period ranged between 12 to 104 months (mean: 47,6 ± 36,6). The SAH grading according World Federation of Neurosurgeons (WFNS) score ranged between 3 to 5. Results: Last documented modified Rankin Score (mRS) ranged between 2 to 6. One patient died in the following year after decompression due to pneumonia and sepsis. Two patients had moderate disability (mRS of 4) and three patients continue their life with minimal deficit and no major dependency (mRS score 2 and 3). Conclusion: DC can be a life-saving procedure which provides a better outcome in patients with cerebral infarction secondary to vasospasm and SAH. However, the small number of the patients in this study is the main limitation of the accuracy of the results, and more studies with larger numbers are required to evaluate the efficiency of DC in this group of patients.
Morphometric analysis of posterior fossa and foramen magnum
Authors: Kanodia Gautam , Parihar Vijay , Yadav Yad R , Bhatele Pushp R , Sharma Dhananjay
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Configuration and size of the foramen magnum and posterior fossa plays an important role in the pathophysiology of the posterior fossa and craniovertebral junction disorders. This study is aimed to find out various dimensions of the foramen magnum and posterior fossa. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study of 100 consecutive normal computerized tomography (CT) scans of posterior fossa and 100 dry adult skulls without any bony abnormality. The posterior fossa volume was calculated by abc/2 in method 1 and by advanced work station of CT scan in method 2. Various dimensions of posterior fossa and foramen magnum were also studied. Results: Age ranged from 16 to 89 years with a mean of 51.3 years. Mean height of posterior fossa were 3.01 cm (±0.22) and 3.52 (±0.43) cm in dry skull and CT scan group, respectively (P < 0.0001). Mean volume of posterior fossa were 157.88 (±27.94) cm3 and 159.58 (±25.73) cm3 by method 1 and method 2, respectively (P > 0.05). All the dimensions of posterior fossa and foramen magnum were larger in male as compared to female. Mean anteroposterior (AP), transverse diameter and surface area of the foramen magnum were 3.31 (±0.35) cm, 2.76 (±0.31) cm, and 729.15 (±124.87) mm2, respectively, in CT scan group as compared to 3.41 (±0.29) cm, 2.75 (±0.25) cm, and 747.67 (±108.60) mm2, respectively, in dry skull group. Conclusion: Normal values of posterior fossa and foramen magnum could serve as a future reference. Dry skull dimensions could be different from CT scan measurement. More studies are needed as there could be variations in dimensions in different regions in India