bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childhood Convulsion: Inquiry about the Concerns and Home Management among Mothers in Tegbesun, a Periurban Community in Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: Anigilaje Emmanuel Ademola , Anigilaje Omolara Olufunmilayo
Published: November 2012

Background. The fear and panic felt by most parents when their child convulsed made them apply all sorts of management. Objective. This study evaluated the concerns and home management of childhood convulsions among mothers in Tegbesun, a periurban community in Ilorin, Nigeria. Methods. A ten-week cross-sectional study comprising 500 mothers interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Results. Fear of death was the commonest concern (450, 90%) among mothers. For a witnessed convulsion, the majority took the child to the hospital (414, 82.8%). Cow’s urine concoction (74, 87.1%) was the most common item administered to a convulsing child. Putting the hand and/or a spoon into the mouth of the convulsing child was the commonest unwholesome practice (74, 61.2%). None of the subjects safely put the convulsing child on his/her side. Conclusions. Maternal concerns are precursors of mismanagement of childhood convulsions, and health education was undertaken at the end of the study.
Ultrasound for the Detection of Pleural Effusions and Guidance of the Thoracentesis Procedure
Authors: Sikora Kamila , Perera Phillips , Mailhot Thomas , Mandavia Diku
Published: November 2012

Objective. To review the use of ultrasound for the detection of pleural effusions and guidance of the thoracentesis procedure. Methods. Two clinical cases will be presented in which ultrasound proved beneficial in guiding the diagnosis and management of patients with pleural effusions and respiratory distress. The ultrasound techniques for the evaluation of pleural effusions and performance of the thoracentesis procedure are discussed. A review of the most current literature follows to present the known diagnostic and safety benefits of ultrasound guidance for thoracentesis. Conclusions. Ultrasound improves the diagnostic accuracy for the detection of pleural effusions over standard chest radiographs. Ultrasound can also diagnose a complicated pleural effusion that may be at higher risk for an adverse outcome during a thoracentesis. Optimally, thoracentesis should be performed under direct ultrasound guidance to decrease the complication rate and improve patient safety.
In Vitro-In Vivo Correlation Evaluation of Generic Alfuzosin Modified Release Tablets
Authors: Sanki Utpal Kumar , Mandal Badal Kumar
Published: November 2012

Alfuzosin, a selective alpha-1a antagonistis is the most recently approved AARAS, with limited cardiac toxicity and exclusively used for lower urinary tract syndromes (LUTS). In order to reduce pill burden and better patient compliance modified release (MR) formulations have been developed. Alfuzosin MR tablet was developed by the use of hot-melt granulation techniques using mono- and diglycerides as rate controlling membranes to minimize health care cost and uses of costly excipients. The other purpose of the study was to evaluate in vitro-in vivo performance of the scale up batch in healthy human subjects for commercialization. The blend uniformity (mean ± RSD%), assay, cumulative percent dissolution at 24 h, hardness, and friability of the biobatch were 100.2 ± 0.05%, 100.43 ± 0.023%, 93.98%, 4.5 kg, 5 min, and 0.08%, respectively. The in vivo pharmacokinetic parameters under fasting conditions between test and reference formulations (Uroxatral 10 mg extended release tablets) were comparable. The 90% CI, geometric mean ratio (%) and power of , AUCT, and AUCI of the fasting study for the test and reference formulation were 99.03% to 122.78%, 109%, 0.998; 92.94% to 116.71%, 104%, 1; 98.17% to 124.01%, 110% 1, respectively. The scale up biobatch showed negligible difference in in vitro properties with respect to the pilot batch. The formulation developed with these agents was safe to use as there were no serious adverse events developed during the conduction of the clinical trial on the healthy subjects. Furthermore, the developed formulation was bioequivalent with respect to rate and extends of absorption to the reference formulation.
Cybercrime detection techniques based on support vector machines
Authors: Mohaddes Deylami Hanif - , Singh Yashwant Prasad
Published: November 2012

This paper presents the cybercrime detection model by using support vector machines (SVMs) to classify social network (Facebook) dataset. We try to compare between three kinds of classification algorithms such as: SVMs, AdaBoostM1, and NaiveBayes in order to find a high percentage of classification accuracy. Finally, we conclude SVMs as the best classification algorithm, which uses different breeds of kernel functions in order to improve the classification accuracy on Facebook dataset. Besides, we are using the Weka 3.7.4 software to evaluate classifiers on Facebook dataset.
Position Weight Matrix, Gibbs Sampler, and the Associated Significance Tests in Motif Characterization and Prediction
Authors: Xia Xuhua
Published: November 2012

Position weight matrix (PWM) is not only one of the most widely used bioinformatic methods, but also a key component in more advanced computational algorithms (e.g., Gibbs sampler) for characterizing and discovering motifs in nucleotide or amino acid sequences. However, few generally applicable statistical tests are available for evaluating the significance of site patterns, PWM, and PWM scores (PWMS) of putative motifs. Statistical significance tests of the PWM output, that is, site-specific frequencies, PWM itself, and PWMS, are in disparate sources and have never been collected in a single paper, with the consequence that many implementations of PWM do not include any significance test. Here I review PWM-based methods used in motif characterization and prediction (including a detailed illustration of the Gibbs sampler forde novomotif discovery), present statistical and probabilistic rationales behind statistical significance tests relevant to PWM, and illustrate their application with real data. The multiple comparison problem associated with the test of site-specific frequencies is best handled by false discovery rate methods. The test of PWM, due to the use of pseudocounts, is best done by resampling methods. The test of individual PWMS for each sequence segment should be based on the extreme value distribution.
Le patrimoine immatériel des communautés religieuses
Authors: Simard Jean
Published: November 2012

Qu'est-ce que le patrimoine immatériel ? Il désigne l'ensemble des savoirs et des savoir-faire qui ont permis ou permettent encore de donner vie et sens aux objets. Les archives écrites ne peuvent à elles seules reconstituer la vie des choses. Seuls les témoins vivants, porteurs de savoirs et de savoir-faire dont ils maîtrisent encore les codes, peuvent détailler les fonctions et les noms de certains objets liturgiques. La place des arts et de l’architecture dans le patrimoine religieux occultent parfois l’importance des expériences de vie de ceux et de celles qui ont consacré leur vie au sein d'un ordre religieux. Cette enquête menée auprès des aînées chez les augustines de l'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec fait découvrir leur formation religieuse et professionnelle et révèle ces religieuses comme porteuses de savoir et de traditions.
Prevalence of persistent parasitic infections in foreign‐born, HIV‐infected persons in the north of Spain
Authors: Rodriguez‐Guardado A , Suarez C , Fernandez M , Rodriguez M , Martinez O , Rojo S , Perez F
Published: November 2012

Background

Foreign‐born, HIV‐infected persons are at risk for sub‐clinical parasitic infections acquired in their countries of origin. This study presents the results of this screening program.

Methods

A prospective, descriptive study was designed to include all the immigrant patients diagnosed of HIV infection attending in Hospital Central de Asturias, Spain, 2006–2011. We included demographic variables, CD4+cells count and viral load at time of diagnosis. Screening comprised blood count, biochemistry, basic urinalysis, hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, strongyloidiasis and schistosomiasis serologic analysis, stool parasites, blood test for filarias, PCR for malaria and Chagas disease serologic analysis and PCR in persons from Latin America. Qualitative variables were compared using the χ2 test, the Fisher exact test, when necessary. For quantitative variables, the Student t test for nonpaired variables or the Mann‐Whitney U test were used. Significance was designated at p<0.05.

Results

57 patients were analyzed. 70% are sub‐Saharan immigrant and the rest Latin American. The most frequent countries of origin were Equatorial Guinea (43%), Nigeria (10%), Senegal (9%), Colombia (9%). Average time in Spain: 1,061 days (3–9,876). Average Cd4+cells were 209 cells/mm3. The average viral load were 47,000 RNA viral copies. Intestinal parasites were diagnosed in 27 patients: T. trichuria (22%), strongyloidiasis (11%), amebiasis (7%), and schistosomiasis (5%), G. intestinalis (4%). All infections by T. trichuria were diagnosed in Equatorial Guinea patients. Other parasites diseases were: filariasis by M. perstans (9%); malaria (9%, all from Equatorial Guinea), Chagas disease (4%). Eight patients had chronic hepatitis B virus and 2 patients had HCV hepatitis. 19% of patients had latent syphilis, significantly more frequent in sub‐Saharan patients (9 vs 2; p=0.04). In 12 patients the screening did not show any disease.

Conclusions

Given the high prevalence of certain parasite infections and the potential lack of suggestive symptoms and signs, selected screening for strongyloidiasis and schistosomiasis or use of empiric antiparasitic therapy may be appropriate among foreign‐born, HIV‐infected patients. Identifying and treating helminth infections could prevent long‐term complications.
Syphilis in HIV‐infected patients: predictors for serological failure and serofast state
Authors: Palacios R , Navarro F , Moreno T , Ruiz J , Nuño E , Márquez M , Santos J
Published: November 2012

Purpose

HIV‐infected patients treated for syphilis may be at increased risk for serological failure and serofast state. Our aim was to analyse serological response to treatment in HIV‐infected patients diagnosed with syphilis, and factors associated with serological cure and serofast state.

Methods

Open‐label, no controlled study of a series of HIV‐patients diagnosed with syphilis during 2004–2011. Patients were categorized by rapid plasma reagin titer (RPR) into success (4‐fold decrease in RPR by 12 or 24 months after treatment of early or late syphilis), serofast (success with persistently stable reactive RPR), and failure/re‐infection (failure to decrease 4‐fold in RPR by 12 or 24 months after treatment or sustained 4‐fold increase in RPR after treatment response).

Results

141 HIV‐patients were diagnosed with syphilis during the study period (104 early syphilis, 36 late or indeterminate latent syphilis). The mean age was 36.3 years, 98.5% were male, and 87.2% homosexual men. In 46 (32.6%) cases, HIV and syphilis infection diagnosis were coincident (mean CD4 457/mm3 and HIV‐VL 4.72 log10). Among patients with prior known HIV infection, 65 were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) at syphilis diagnosis (mean CD4 469/mm3, 76.9% undetectable HIV‐VL). 116 patients satisfied criteria for serological response analysis (89 early, 24 late/indeterminate). At 12 months of early syphilis treatment (89.2% penicillin) there were 16 (18%) failures, and at 24 months of late/indeterminate syphilis (91.7% penicillin) there were 5 (18.5%) failures. Overall, 36 (31.0%) patients presented serofast state. Treatment failure was related with lower CD4 count (295 vs 510/mL; p=0.045) only in patients with coincident diagnosis. Serofast state was related with older age (41 vs 36 years; p=0.024), and lower CD4 count (391 vs 513/mm3; p=0.026).

Conclusions

In this series of HIV‐infected patients, with many patients on ART and with good immunological and virological parameters, serological failure and serofast state were frequent. Immunological status, and age could influence on serological response to syphilis treatment in HIV‐infected patients.
Statistical validation of the brief International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Core Set for osteoarthritis based on a large international sample of patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Oberhauser Cornelia , Escorpizo Reuben , Boonen Annelies , Stucki Gerold , Cieza Alarcos
Published: November 2012

Objective

With the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), the impact of health conditions on functioning and disability can be described. A Comprehensive and a Brief ICF Core Set for osteoarthritis (OA) were developed. Our specific aims were to validate the Brief ICF Core Set for OA using a novel approach, i.e., to identify ICF categories that best explain patients' functioning, and to propose a statistically validated version.

Methods

We performed a psychometric study using group lasso regression on data from a convenience sample of 879 OA patients from 20 countries. The general health subscale of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 was used as a dependent variable, and all ICF categories of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for OA and some sociodemographic and disease‐specific characteristics were used as independent variables. The most relevant ICF categories were identified as those showing a significant effect based on the pointwise 90% confidence intervals resulting from 1,000 bootstrap trials.

Results

The set of ICF categories that best explains patients' functioning consists of 4 body functions, 2 body structures, 2 activities and participation, and 3 environmental factors. Twelve of the original 13 Brief ICF Core Set categories were confirmed, and 3 additional ICF categories were identified.

Conclusion

Our findings reassure the validity of the Brief ICF Core Set for OA. The statistically validated Core Set with the additional statistically derived ICF categories will likely perform better with regard to discrimination and sensitivity to change in studies and trials, and should be further explored in the future.
Racial/ethnic differences in the use of biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs among California Medicaid rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Chu Li‐Hao , Portugal Cecilia , Kawatkar Aniket A. , Stohl William , Nichol Michael B.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To assess racial/ethnic differences in the use of biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) among California Medicaid (Medi‐Cal) rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Methods

Medi‐Cal patient level data for 5,385 DMARD recipients between ages 18 and 100 years with at least 1 diagnosis of RA (International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 714.xx) and the use of 1 DMARD between January 1, 1998 and December 31, 2005 were collected. The outcome of interest was the choice of either standard DMARDs (methotrexate, lefluonomide, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine) or biologic DMARDs (adalimumab, etanercept, anakinra, and infliximab). A univariate analysis and logistic regression model were applied to examine the association of the choice of DMARD among different racial/ethnic groups.

Results

In the univariate analysis, biologic DMARD use was significantly associated with race/ethnicity (P < 0.001). In the multivariate logistic regression model, after adjusting for age, sex, insurance coverage, 12 comorbid conditions, RA‐related drug prescription, RA‐related inpatient stay, and rehabilitation visits, African Americans had 53% lower odds of receiving biologic DMARDs as compared to whites, whereas Hispanics had 36% increased odds of receiving biologic DMARDs as compared to whites.

Conclusion

In this Medi‐Cal population, with its racial diversity and relatively homogenous socioeconomic status and health care benefits, racial/ethnic differences were found in RA patients receiving biologic DMARDs.
Prevalence and incidence in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases: A nationwide population‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Kuang‐Hui , See Lai‐Chu , Kuo Chang‐Fu , Chou I‐Jun , Chou Meng‐Jiun
Published: November 2012

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, incidence, and mortality rates of autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) by using a population‐based database.

Methods

We used the longitudinal health insurance database (comprising 1,000,000 beneficiaries) of the Taiwan National Health Insurance from 2000 to 2008 and the National Death Registry of Taiwan from 2000 to 2008.

Results

The overall prevalence of major ARDs was 101.3 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 27.5–107.9) per 100,000 populations; the prevalence was 165.1 (95% CI 44.8–177.1) in women and 40.1 (95% CI 10.9–46.1) in men. The prevalences of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren's syndrome, progressive systemic sclerosis, polymyositis/dermatomyositis, vasculitis, and Behçet's disease were 52.4 (95% CI 14.2–57.2), 37.0 (95% CI 10.0–41.0), 16.0 (95% CI 4.3–18.7), 3.8 (95% CI 1.0–5.3), 2.9 (95% CI 0.8–4.2), 5.7 (95% CI 1.6–7.4), and 1.4 (95% CI 0.4–2.3) per 100,000 persons, respectively. Between 2001 and 2008, the incidence rates (per 100,000 person‐years) for these diseases were 17.3, 8.4, 10.6, 1.5, 1.5, 1.2, and 0.8, respectively. The incident cases with ARDs had a higher risk of mortality, with the standardized mortality ratio (SMR) ranging from 1.3 to 3.7.

Conclusion

In 2000, the prevalence of major ARDs was 1.4–52.4 per 100,000 persons in Taiwan. Between 2000 and 2008, the incidence rates of various ARDs were 0.8–17.3 per 100,000 person‐years. The prevalence and incidence of RA were the highest, followed by SLE and Sjögren's syndrome, and those of Behçet's disease were the lowest. Patients with different types of ARDs had higher mortality and SMR than those of the general population.
Choreoathetosis, congenital hypothyroidism and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome with intact NKX2‐1
Authors: Barnett Christopher P. , Mencel Justin J. , Gecz Jozef , Waters Wendy , Kirwin Susan M. , Vinette Kathy M. B , Uppill Miriam , Nicholl Jillian
Published: November 2012

Mutations in the NK2 homeobox 1 gene (NKX2‐1) cause a rare syndrome known as choreoathetosis, congenital hypothyroidism, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (OMIM 610978). Here we present the first reported patient with this condition caused by a 14q13.3 deletion which is adjacent to but does not interrupt NKX2‐1, and review the literature on this condition. The infant presented at 23 months with a history of developmental delay, hyperkinesia, recurrent respiratory infections, neonatal respiratory distress, and hypothyroidism. Choreiform movements and delayed motor milestones were first noted at 6–8 months of age. TSH levels had been consistently elevated from 8 months of age. The clinical presentation was suggestive of an NKX2‐1 mutation. Sequencing of all exons and splice site junctions of NKX2‐1 was performed but was normal. Array CGH was then performed and a 3.29 Mb interstitial deletion at 14q13.1–q13.3 was detected. The distal region of loss of the deletion disrupted the surfactant associated 3 (SFTA3) gene but did disrupt NKX2‐1. Findings were confirmed on high resolution SNP array and multiplex semiquanitative PCR. NKX2‐1 encodes transcriptional factors involved in the developmental pathways for thyroid, lung, and brain. We hypothesize that the region centromeric to NKX2‐1 is important for the normal functioning of this gene and when interrupted produces a phenotype that is typical of the choreoathetosis, congenital hypothyroidism, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, as seen in our patient. We conclude that deletions at 14q13.3 adjacent to but not involving NKX2‐1 can cause choreoathetosis, congenital hypothyroidism, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incidental findings in genetic research and clinical diagnostic tests: A systematic review
Authors: Jackson Leigh , Goldsmith Lesley , O'Connor Anita , Skirton Heather
Published: November 2012

Incidental findings arise when clinically relevant genetic information about a research participant or patient is identified outside the scope of the original research objective or diagnostic test being performed. These findings can relate to carrier status for a heritable condition, misattributed paternity or increased susceptibility to a medical condition. The decision whether to disclose these findings to the research subject or patient is underpinned by many ethical, moral, and potentially legal considerations. There is an urgent need for definitive guidelines for researchers and healthcare professionals. We performed a systematic review of the relevant literature concerning the disclosure of incidental findings, based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses recommendations, using the prescribed flowchart and checklist. At initial screening, 473 articles were retrieved. The inclusion and exclusion criteria aimed at obtaining data that were relevant and of sufficient quality were applied and a total of four relevant studies were identified, comprising 2,680 individual participants and 1,023 guidance documents. Major themes emerging from the included articles include patient autonomy, patient welfare, harmful secrets, and genetic literacy. The lack of relevant studies emphasizes the urgent need for empirical investigations into the disclosure or non‐disclosure of genetic incidental findings, and the provision of guidelines to assist healthcare professionals and researchers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Floating–Harbor syndrome and polycystic kidneys associated with SRCAP mutation
Authors: Reschen Michael , Kini Usha , Hood Rebecca L. , Boycott Kym M. , Hurst Jane , O'Callaghan Christopher A.
Published: November 2012

Floating–Harbor syndrome (FHS) is a rare genetic disorder recently shown to be caused by mutations in the Snf2‐related CREB‐binding protein activator protein gene (SRCAP). It comprises three key clinical features of characteristic facies, expressive and receptive speech impairment and short stature. We report on a patient with this syndrome associated with early adult‐onset hypertension and bilateral polycystic kidneys. Family screening for polycystic kidney disease was negative and mutations in polycystic kidney disease 1 and 2 genes (PKD1 and PKD2) were absent. Sequencing of the SRCAP gene demonstrated a de novo mutation matching one of the known FHS‐associated mutations. The patient required treatment with anti‐hypertensives and will require lifelong renal monitoring. We suggest this patient's presentation may be due to the pleiotropic effects of SRCAP mutations. Further, the protein encoded by SRCAP is known to interact with CREB‐binding protein, the product of the gene mutated in Rubinstein–Taybi syndrome, which is associated with renal abnormalities. A literature review of the renal findings in patients with Floating–Harbor syndrome identified another patient with possible polycystic kidneys, two patients with early onset hypertension, and a young patient with a ruptured intracranial aneurysm, which can be a feature of classic adult polycystic kidney disease. Collectively, these findings suggest that all patients with Floating–Harbor syndrome should undergo regular blood pressure monitoring and screening for polycystic kidneys by ultrasound at the time of the FHS diagnosis with imaging to be repeated during adulthood if a childhood ultrasound was negative. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Utility of SNP arrays in detecting, quantifying, and determining meiotic origin of tetrasomy 12p in blood from individuals with Pallister–Killian syndrome
Authors: Conlin Laura K. , Kaur Maninder , Izumi Kosuke , Campbell Lindsey , Wilkens Alisha , Clark Dinah , Deardorff Matthew A. , Zackai Elaine H. , Pallister Phillip , Hakonarson Hakon , Spinner Nancy B. , Krantz Ian D.
Published: November 2012

Identification of the isochromosome 12p (i(12p)) associated with Pallister–Killian syndrome is complicated by the low frequency of this supernumerary chromosome in PHA stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes, and frequently requires cytogenetic analysis of fibroblast cells. Recently, it has been shown that array CGH techniques are able to detect tetrasomy 12p in peripheral blood, even when not identified by traditional cytogenetic techniques. We studied 15 patients with a previous cytogenetic and clinical diagnosis of Pallister–Killian syndrome using genome‐wide SNP arrays to investigate the ability of this platform to identify the i(12p) in blood and tissue. Array analysis verified tetrasomy 12p in all samples from fibroblasts, but was only able to detect it in 46% of blood samples. The genotyping information available from the SNP arrays allowed for the detection of as low as 5% mosaicism, as well as suggesting a Meiosis II origin for the isochromosome in the majority of patients. Analysis of the percentage of abnormal cells with patient age at time of study suggests that the frequency of the i(12p) decreased with age in blood, but not in fibroblasts. These highlight the power of SNP arrays in detecting and characterizing the isochromosome 12p in Pallister–Killian syndrome as well as underscoring the important utility of traditional cytogenetic techniques. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amine‐functionalization of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes for adsorption of carbon dioxide
Authors: Gui Meei Mei , Yap Yan Xin , Chai Siang‐Piao , Mohamed Abdul Rahman
Published: November 2012

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as one of the potential support materials for adsorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) because of their specific surface morphology and unique chemical characteristics. CNTs are well known with their large surface area, porous structure and excellent chemical and thermal stability. They can be effectively used as support materials in the development of high efficient adsorbents to capture CO2 from the emission sources, which are normally present in relatively high temperature. In this study, adsorbents for capturing CO2 were prepared from the modification of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with 3(aminopropyl)‐triethoxysilane. The modification of MWCNTs was performed in various conditions to study the key factors affecting the quality of the adsorbents, including the presence of solvent, thermal treatment and functionalization duration. The effects of solvent, functionalization duration and thermal treatment were found to be significant in the functionalization process. High quality amine‐functionalized MWCNTs were obtained in the presence of toluene with thermal treatment. A maximum CO2 uptake of 74 mg/g adsorbent was achieved from the adsorbent developed in this study. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mobility control requirement in multiphase displacement processes in porous media
Authors: Sheng James J.
Published: November 2012

According to the conventional mobility control requirement, the displacing phase mobility (e.g. polymer) should be equal to or less than the sum of the mobilities of several displaced phases (e.g. water and oil). When the oil mobility is much lower than the water mobility, the sum of the displaced phase mobilities will be almost the same as the water mobility. Then, according to the requirement, the displacing polymer mobility is almost the same as the water mobility. As a result, the polymer solution will flow preferentially along water channels, leaving oil undisplaced.

In this paper, we propose that the displacing phase mobility (polymer) should be equal to or less than the lowest mobility of displaced phases (generally, oil phase mobility) multiplied by its normalized saturation. This mobility requirement is validated by extensive simulation results at different conditions. It is also justified by field practices. Some published experimental data are analyzed to justify the proposed requirement. The proposed mobility requirement provides a criterion for mobility control design in multiphase displacement processes in porous media. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new methodology for constructing a publication‐level classification system of science
Authors: Waltman Ludo , van Eck Nees Jan
Published: November 2012

Classifying journals or publications into research areas is an essential element of many bibliometric analyses. Classification usually takes place at the level of journals, where the Web of Science subject categories are the most popular classification system. However, journal‐level classification systems have two important limitations: They offer only a limited amount of detail, and they have difficulties with multidisciplinary journals. To avoid these limitations, we introduce a new methodology for constructing classification systems at the level of individual publications. In the proposed methodology, publications are clustered into research areas based on citation relations. The methodology is able to deal with very large numbers of publications. We present an application in which a classification system is produced that includes almost 10 million publications. Based on an extensive analysis of this classification system, we discuss the strengths and the limitations of the proposed methodology. Important strengths are the transparency and relative simplicity of the methodology and its fairly modest computing and memory requirements. The main limitation of the methodology is its exclusive reliance on direct citation relations between publications. The accuracy of the methodology can probably be increased by also taking into account other types of relations–for instance, based on bibliographic coupling.
Integration of clinical and patient-reported outcomes in surgical oncology
Authors: Macefield R C , Avery K N L , Blazeby J M
Published: November 2012

Background

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) provide information about the patient perspective and experience of undergoing surgery for cancer, but evidence suggests that they are not used widely to influence practice. This review considers key challenges and opportunities for using PROs effectively in gastrointestinal surgical oncology, drawing on principles learnt from surgical oncology in general.

Methods

Systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in surgical oncology reporting PROs as primary or secondary outcomes, and studies examining methods to communicate PRO information, were identified. Common themes are summarized and the future of PRO studies considered.

Results

Reviews highlighted the need for improved design, conduct and reporting of PROs in RCTs in surgical oncology. Main issues related to the multiplicity of PRO measures hindering data synthesis and clinical understanding, problems with missing data risking bias, and limited integration of clinical and PRO data undermining the role of PRO data in practice. Reviews indicated that patients want PRO data to meet information needs and early work shows that graphically displayed PROs are understood by patients.

Conclusion

PROs have a role in the evaluation of surgical oncology, but increased consensus and collaboration between surgeons and methodologists is needed to improve the design, conduct and reporting of PROs with clinical outcomes in trials. Possible solutions include investing more effort and systematic thought into the PRO rationale in RCTs, the development and use of ‘core outcome sets’ with PROs, and implementation of the extension to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines for reporting PROs in RCTs.
Marketing social norms: Social marketing and the ‘social norm approach’
Authors: Burchell Kevin , Rettie Ruth , Patel Kavita
Published: November 2012

This paper is inspired by the observation that the social norm approach (SNA) to socially desirable behaviour change – that is,telling people about what lots of other people do– retains something of a Cinderella role among social marketing practitioners and academics. Thus, the objective of this paper is to bring the social norm approach to the attention of a wider – and specifically, marketing and social marketing – audience, in the hope that the practice, study and critical analysis of the approach can be widened and deepened. We begin this task by tracing the background of the social norm approach to its origins in psychology and social psychology and by discussing a number of typical social norm campaigns. Thereafter, we review four key characteristics of successful social norm campaigns. In our discussion, we return to a more theoretical discussion of how the social norm approach works, and we pose a number of questions that emerge from the paper. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of resocialization on post‐weaning social isolation‐induced abnormal aggression and social deficits in rats
Authors: Tulogdi Áron , Tóth Máté , Barsvári Beáta , Biró László , Mikics Éva , Haller József
Published: November 2012

As previously shown, rats isolated from weaning develop abnormal social and aggressive behavior characterized by biting attacks targeting vulnerable body parts of opponents, reduced attack signaling, and increased defensive behavior despite increased attack counts. Here we studied whether this form of violent aggression could be reversed by resocialization in adulthood. During the first weak of resocialization, isolation‐reared rats showed multiple social deficits including increased defensiveness and decreased huddling during sleep. Deficits were markedly attenuated in the second and third weeks. Despite improved social functioning in groups, isolated rats readily showed abnormal features of aggression in a resident‐intruder test performed after the 3‐week‐long resocialization. Thus, post‐weaning social isolation‐induced deficits in prosocial behavior were eliminated by resocialization during adulthood, but abnormal aggression was resilient to this treatment. Findings are compared to those obtained in humans who suffered early social maltreatment, and who also show social deficits and dysfunctional aggression in adulthood. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 49–57, 2014.
The 125th Anniversary of the Tröger's Base Molecule: Synthesis and Applications of Tröger's Base Analogues
Authors: Rúnarsson Ögmundur Vidar , Artacho Josep , Wärnmark Kenneth
Published: November 2012

In 2012 we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the unique molecule Tröger's base (TB), first synthesized by Julius Tröger in 1887. Being a V‐shaped C2‐symmetric chiral molecule, it possesses many interesting features. The TB field was reopened in 1985, when Craig S. Wilcox published the first crystallographic study of TB and described the synthesis and potential applications of TB analogues in supramolecular chemistry and in ligand design. This led to increasing interest in the development of synthetic methodology for TB analogues, initially for applications in the field of molecular recognition. In this review we give a short historical overview of TB and its chemical properties. In addition, we cover the fast progress in the development of synthetic methodologies to synthesize TB analogues that has taken place during recent decades. The functionalization of TB at almost any position in its skeleton is now possible and we discuss in detail recent developments in the functionalization of TB in the aromatic rings and in the methano bridge. The reopening of the functionalization of the diazocine ring itself is also discussed. In addition, progress in the synthesis of heterocyclic TB analogues and recent developments in the field of fused TB analogues are covered. The improvements in synthetic approaches have resulted in TB analogues with interesting properties that have inspired investigation of TB analogues in new fields of applications, among others as receptors, as molecular torsion balances, as ligands in asymmetric catalysis, as drug candidates, and as new materials for photo‐ and optical applications. The most recent developments in those fields are also discussed.
First identification of the odour‐active unsaturated aliphatic acid (E)‐4‐methyl‐3‐hexenoic acid in yuzu (Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka)
Authors: Miyazato Hironari , Hashimoto Seiji , Hayashi Shuichi
Published: November 2012

We have investigated the aroma of yuzu (Citrus junos Sieb. ex Tanaka). Application of the aroma extract dilution analysis technique allowed us to determine a sequence of the odour‐active compounds in yuzu volatile oil. In this study, we confirmed the presence of an unknown odorant that possesses a sweaty odour and a relatively high flavour dilution factor. In order to identify the unknown compound, the concentrated volatile acid fraction of yuzu volatile oil was obtained, using an enrichment procedure consisting of the combination of the sub‐extraction of an acidic component with a basic aqueous solution and subsequent affinity chromatography with an Oasis MAX cartridge. Gas chromatography–olfactometry and multi‐dimensional gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses revealed that the unknown compound was (E)‐4‐methyl‐3‐hexenoic acid [(E)‐4M3H]. (E)‐4M3H was identified for the first time as an odour‐active unsaturated aliphatic acid in yuzu. Additionally, both (Z)‐ and (E)‐4M3H were stereoselectively synthesised over two steps comprised of the iron‐catalysed carbometalations of homopropargylic alcohols with Grignard reagents, followed by oxidation. On the basis of sensory evaluation, the orthonasal odour detection threshold of the (E)‐isomer was 10‐fold to 100‐fold lower than that of the (Z)‐isomer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro evaluation of dentinal hydraulic conductance and tubule sealing by a novel calcium–phosphate desensitizer
Authors: Thanatvarakorn Ornnicha , Nakashima Syozi , Sadr Alireza , Prasansuttiporn Taweesak , Ikeda Masaomi , Tagami Junji
Published: November 2012

In the current trend of materials used for dentin hypersensitivity treatment, calcium–phosphate‐containing desensitizers are expected to have advantages in oral environment. A newly formulated desensitizer containing tetracalcium phosphate and dicalcium phosphate anhydrous (CPD‐100) was evaluated in comparison to oxalate containing desensitizer (SS) regarding permeability reduction (PR%) by measuring hydraulic conductance on the etched dentin discs in vitro. CPD‐100 exhibited mean PR% of 91%, which significantly increased to 98% after immersion in artificial saliva (AS) for 4 weeks (p < 0.001), while SS showed a significant decrease from 99% to 93% (p < 0.01). SEM observation showed newly formed crystallites on CPD‐100 treated dentin, which did not exist in SS treated dentin after AS immersion, suggesting that calcium oxalate inhibited formation of new calcium–phosphate minerals. Five‐minute acid challenge did not significantly affect PR% of dentin treated by any of the desensitizers. The energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis indicated that the formed layer of CPD‐100 were minerals with similar Ca/P ratio to hydroxyapatite. In conclusion, the newly developed calcium–phosphate desensitizer has the potential to exhibit long‐term stability in the oral environment, owing to its chemical properties that promote the crystal growth in salivary fluid. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2013.
Urocortin increased LPS‐induced endothelial permeability by regulating the cadherin–catenin complex via corticotrophin‐releasing hormone receptor 2
Authors: Wan Rong , Guo Rui , Chen Cheng , Jin Lai , Zhu Chao , Zhang Qichun , Xu Youhua , Li Shengnan
Published: November 2012

Urocortin (Ucn1), a member of corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH) family, has been reported to be upregulated in inflammatory diseases and function as an autocrine or paracrine inflammatory mediator. Growing evidence shows that Ucn1 increases the endothelial permeability in inflammatory conditions; however, the detailed mechanisms are not clear. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms of increased endothelial permeability by Ucn1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Pretreatment of HUVECs with Ucn1 increased the endothelial cell permeability, which was augmented by LPS synergistically. Significant downregulation of VE‐cadherin expression was also observed. Moreover, Ucn1 increased phosphorylation of protein kinase D (PKD) and heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) in a time‐ and CRHR2‐dependent manner. Inhibition of PKD and HSP27 drastically attenuated Ucn1‐induced downregulation of VE‐cadherin expression. Further investigations demonstrated that Ucn1 phosphorylated β‐catenin at Ser552 to disrupt the cadherin–catenin complex and hence promote the disassociation of β‐catenin and VE‐cadherin. Disassociation of β‐catenin and VE‐cadherin resulted in decreased VE‐cadherin expression while on the contrary β‐catenin was increased, which may due to the inactivation of GSK‐3β. Increased β‐catenin translocated into the nucleus and subsequently bound to TCF/LEF site, contributing to the elevated expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The above effects of Ucn1 were completely reversed by CRHR2 receptor blocker, antisauvagine‐30. Taken together, our data suggest that Ucn1 increase LPS‐induced endothelial permeability by disrupting the VE‐cadherin–β‐catenin complex via activation of CRHR2 and PKD‐HSP27 signaling pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1295–1303, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Omega‐3 PUFA ethanolamides DHEA and EPEA induce autophagy through PPARγ activation in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Rovito Daniela , Giordano Cinzia , Vizza Donatella , Plastina Pierluigi , Barone Ines , Casaburi Ivan , Lanzino Marilena , De Amicis Francesca , Sisci Diego , Mauro Loredana , Aquila Saveria , Catalano Stefania , Bonofiglio Daniela , Andò Sebastiano
Published: November 2012

The omega‐3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), elicit anti‐proliferative effects in cancer cell lines and in animal models. Dietary DHA and EPA can be converted to their ethanolamide derivatives, docosahexaenoyl ethanolamine (DHEA), and eicosapentaenoyl ethanolamine (EPEA), respectively; however, few studies are reported on their anti‐cancer activities. Here, we demonstrated that DHEA and EPEA were able to reduce cell viability in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells whereas they did not elicit any effects in MCF‐10A non‐tumorigenic breast epithelial cells. Since DHA and EPA are ligands of Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ), we sought to determine whether PPARγ may also mediate DHEA and EPEA actions. In MCF‐7 cells, both compounds enhanced PPARγ expression, stimulated a PPAR response element‐dependent transcription as confirmed by the increased expression of its target gene PTEN, resulting in the inhibition of AKT‐mTOR pathways. Besides, DHEA and EPEA treatment induced phosphorylation of Bcl‐2 promoting its dissociation from beclin‐1 which resulted in autophagy induction. We also observed an increase of beclin‐1 and microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 expression along with an enhanced autophagosomes formation as revealed by mono‐dansyl‐cadaverine staining. Finally, we demonstrated the involvement of PPARγ in DHEA‐ and EPEA‐induced autophagy by using siRNA technology and a selective inhibitor. In summary, our data show that the two omega‐3 ethanolamides exert anti‐proliferative effects by inducing autophagy in breast cancer cells highlighting their potential use as breast cancer preventive and/or therapeutic agents. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1314–1322, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“I'm Talking About Pain”: Sickle cell disease patients with extremely high hospital use
Authors: Weisberg Daniel , Balf‐Soran Gabriela , Becker William , Brown Shan‐Estelle , Sledge William
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND:

A small minority of sickle cell disease patients accounts for the majority of inpatient hospital days. Admitted as often as several times a month, over successive years, this cohort of patients has not been studied in depth despite their disproportionate contribution to inpatient hospital costs in sickle cell disease.

OBJECTIVE:

To characterize the subjective experience of extremely high hospital use in patients with sickle cell disease, and generate hypotheses about the antecedents and consequences of this phenomenon.

DESIGN:

Qualitative study involving in‐depth, open‐ended interviews using a standardized interview guide.

SETTING:

A single urban academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS:

Eight individuals, of varying age and gender, identified as the sickle cell disease patients who are among the highest hospital use patients over a 3‐year period.

RESULTS:

A common narrative emerged from the interview transcripts. Participants were exposed to the hospital environment and intravenous (IV) opioids at a young age, and this exposure was associated with extremely high hospital use in adulthood, evident in descriptions of multiple dimensions of their lives: pain and opioid medication use, interpersonal relationships, and personal development.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results suggest a systematic, self‐reinforcing process of isolation from mainstream society, support structures, and caregivers, based on increasing hospitalization, growing dependency on opioid medications, as well as missed developmental milestones. Further study and interventions should be geared towards breaking this spiraling cycle with long‐term strategies in disease management and social integration. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2013. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Evaluation of the bactericidal effect of Nd:YAG, Er:YAG, Er,Cr:YSGG laser radiation, and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in experimentally infected root canals
Authors: Cheng Xiaogang , Guan Sumin , Lu Hong , Zhao Chunmiao , Chen Xingxing , Li Na , Bai Qian , Tian Yu , Yu Qing
Published: November 2012

Background and Objective

In recent years, various laser systems have been introduced into the field of laser‐assisted endodontic therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bactericidal effect of Nd:YAG, Er:YAG, Er,Cr:YSGG laser radiation, and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in experimentally infected root canals compared with standard endodontic treatment of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) irrigation.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred and twenty infected root canals from extracted human teeth (contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 4083 for 4 weeks) were randomly divided into five experimental groups (Nd:YAG, Er:YAG + 5.25% NaClO + 0.9% normal saline + distilled water (Er:YAG/NaClO/NS/DW), Er:YAG + 0.9% normal saline + distilled water (Er:YAG/NS/DW), Er,Cr:YSGG, and aPDT) and two control groups (5.25% NaClO as positive control and 0.9% normal saline (NS) as negative control). The numbers of bacteria on the surface of root canal walls and at different depths inside dentinal tubules before and after treatment were analyzed by means of one‐way analysis of variance (one‐way ANOVA). The morphology of bacterial cells before and after treatment was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

After treatment, the bacterial reductions in the experimental groups and the positive control group were significantly greater than that of the negative control group (P < 0.001). However, only Er:YAG/NaClO/NS/DW group showed no bacterial growth (the bacterial reduction reached up to 100%) on the surface of root canal walls or at 100/200 µm inside the dentinal tubules.

Conclusions

All the laser radiation protocols tested, especially Er:YAG/NaClO/NS/DW, have effective bactericidal effect in experimentally infected root canals. Er:YAG/NaClO/NS/DW seems to be an ideal protocol for root canal disinfection during endodontic therapy. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 824–831, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.