bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of interventions for hypertension care in the community – a meta-analysis of controlled studies in China
Authors: Lu Zuxun , Cao Shiyi , Chai Yun , Liang Yuan , Bachmann Max , Suhrcke Marc , Song Fujian
Published: July 2012

Background

Hypertension is a serious public health problem in China and in other developing countries. Our aim is to conduct a systematic review of studies on the effectiveness of community interventions for hypertension management in China.

Methods

China National Knowledge Infrastructure, PubMed, and references of retrieved articles were searched to identify randomised or quasi-randomised controlled studies that evaluated community hypertension care in mainland China. One reviewer extracted and a second reviewer checked data from the included studies.

Results

We included 94 studies, 93 of which were in Chinese language, that evaluated the following interventions: health education, improved monitoring, family-support, self-management, healthcare management changes and training of providers. The study quality was generally poor, with high risk of biased outcome reporting and significant heterogeneity between studies. When reported, the vast majority of the included studies reported statistically significantly improved outcomes in the intervention group. By assuming zero treatment effects for missing outcomes, the weighted reduction in the intervention group was 6∙9 (95% CI: 4∙9 to 8∙9) mm Hg for systolic BP, and 3∙8 (95% CI: 2∙6 to 5∙0) mm Hg for diastolic BP. Exploratory subgroup analyses found no significant differences between different interventions.

Conclusions

After taking account of possible reporting biases, a wide range of community interventions for hypertension care remain effective. The findings have implications for China and other low and middle income countries facing similar challenges. Because of significant heterogeneity and high risk of bias in the available studies, further well designed studies should be conducted in China to provide high quality evidence to inform policy decisions on hypertension control.
Alterations of specific biomarkers of metabolic pathways in vascular tree from patients with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rosa Bernal-Lopez M , Vicenta Llorente-Cortes , Victor Gomez-Carrillo , Dolores Lopez-Carmona , Fernando Calleja , Ricardo Gomez-Huelgas , Lina Badimon , J Tinahones Francisco
Published: July 2012

The aims of this study were to check whether different biomarkers of inflammatory, apoptotic, immunological or lipid pathways had altered their expression in the occluded popliteal artery (OPA) compared with the internal mammary artery (IMA) and femoral vein (FV) and to examine whether glycemic control influenced the expression of these genes. The study included 20 patients with advanced atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus, 15 of whom had peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD), from whom samples of OPA and FV were collected. PAOD patients were classified based on their HbA1c as well (HbA1c ≤ 6.5) or poorly (HbA1c > 6.5) controlled patients. Controls for arteries without atherosclerosis comprised 5 IMA from patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). mRNA, protein expression and histological studies were analyzed in IMA, OPA and FV. After analyzing 46 genes, OPA showed higher expression levels than IMA or FV for genes involved in thrombosis (F3), apoptosis (MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1 and TIM3), lipid metabolism (LRP1 and NDUFA), immune response (TLR2) and monocytes adhesion (CD83). Remarkably, MMP-9 expression was lower in OPA from well-controlled patients. In FV from diabetic patients with HbA1c ≤6.5, gene expression levels of BCL2, CDKN1A, COX2, NDUFA and SREBP2 were higher than in FV from those with HbA1c >6.5.

The atherosclerotic process in OPA from diabetic patients was associated with high expression levels of inflammatory, lipid metabolism and apoptotic biomarkers. The degree of glycemic control was associated with gene expression markers of apoptosis, lipid metabolism and antioxidants in FV. However, the effect of glycemic control on pro-atherosclerotic gene expression was very low in arteries with established atherosclerosis.
Silver nanoparticles administered to chicken affect VEGFA and FGF2 gene expression in breast muscle and heart
Authors: Hotowy Anna , Sawosz Ewa , Pineda Lane , Sawosz Filip , Grodzik Marta , Chwalibog André
Published: July 2012

Nanoparticles of colloidal silver (AgNano) can influence gene expression. Concerning trials of AgNano application in poultry nutrition, it is useful to reveal whether they affect the expression of genes crucial for bird development. AgNano were administered to broiler chickens as a water solution in two concentrations (10 and 20 ppm). After dissection of the birds, breast muscles and hearts were collected. Gene expression of FGF2 and VEGFA on the mRNA and protein levels were evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. The results for gene expression in the breast muscle revealed changes on the mRNA level (FGF2 was up-regulated, P < 0.05) but not on the protein level. In the heart, 20 ppm of silver nanoparticles in drinking water increased the expression of VEGFA (P < 0.05), at the same time decreasing FGF2 expression both on the transcriptional and translational levels. Changes in the expression of these genes may lead to histological changes, but this needs to be proven using histological and immunohistochemical examination of tissues. In general, we showed that AgNano application in poultry feeding influences the expression of FGF2 and VEGFA genes on the mRNA and protein levels in growing chicken.
Nonlocal nonlinear integrodifferential equations of fractional orders
Authors: Debbouche Amar , Baleanu Dumitru , Agarwal Ravi P
Published: July 2012

In this paper, Schauder fixed point theorem, Gelfand-Shilov principles combined with semigroup theory are used to prove the existence of mild and strong solutions for nonlinear fractional integrodifferential equations of Sobolev type with nonlocal conditions in Banach spaces. To illustrate our abstract results, an example is given.

MSC:35A05, 34G20, 34K05, 26A33.
Drosophila larvae lacking the bcl-2 gene, buffy, are sensitive to nutrient stress, maintain increased basal target of rapamycin (Tor) signaling and exhibit characteristics of altered basal energy metabolism
Authors: Monserrate Jessica P , Chen Michelle Y-Y , Brachmann Carrie Baker
Published: July 2012

Background

B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) proteins are the central regulators of apoptosis. The two bcl-2 genes in Drosophila modulate the response to stress-induced cell death, but not developmental cell death. Because null mutants are viable, Drosophila provides an optimum model system to investigate alternate functions of Bcl-2 proteins. In this report, we explore the role of one bcl-2 gene in nutrient stress responses.

Results

We report that starvation of Drosophila larvae lacking the bcl-2 gene, buffy, decreases survival rate by more than twofold relative to wild-type larvae. The buffy null mutant reacted to starvation with the expected responses such as inhibition of target of rapamycin (Tor) signaling, autophagy initiation and mobilization of stored lipids. However, the autophagic response to starvation initiated faster in larvae lacking buffy and was inhibited by ectopic buffy. We demonstrate that unusually high basal Tor signaling, indicated by more phosphorylated S6K, was detected in the buffy mutant and that removal of a genomic copy of S6K, but not inactivation of Tor by rapamycin, reverted the precocious autophagy phenotype. Instead, Tor inactivation also required loss of a positive nutrient signal to trigger autophagy and loss of both was sufficient to activate autophagy in the buffy mutant even in the presence of enforced phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling. Prior to starvation, the fed buffy mutant stored less lipid and glycogen, had high lactate levels and maintained a reduced pool of cellular ATP. These observations, together with the inability of buffy mutant larvae to adapt to nutrient restriction, indicate altered energy metabolism in the absence of buffy.

Conclusions

All animals in their natural habitats are faced with periods of reduced nutrient availability. This study demonstrates that buffy is required for adaptation to both starvation and nutrient restriction. Thus, Buffy is a Bcl-2 protein that plays an important non-apoptotic role to promote survival of the whole organism in a stressful situation.
Severe acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon treatment and early intervention with corticosteroid
Authors: Mao Qing , Zhang Hui-Yan , You Jian-Ping , Zhang Xu-Qing
Published: July 2012

Severe acute exacerbation or liver failure induced by standard interferon-α(IFN-α) therapy had been reported to occur in few patients with chronic hepatitis B. However, no report showed that pegylated interferon-α therapy was able to induce severe acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B. Here, we describe three patients with severe acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B during pegylated interferon-α2a (Pegasys) treatment. One patient progressed into acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) at the second week of Pegasys treatment. Two patients progressed into acute-on-chronic pre-liver failure (pre-ACLF) at the second and eighth week of Pegasys treatment, respectively. Three patients recovered after early combined intervention with corticosteroid and lamivudine. Our data indicated that there was a risk of severe acute exacerbation among patients with chronic hepatitis B during receiving Pegasys treatment. Importantly, early combined intervention with corticosteroid and lamivudine should be introduced to prevent the disease progression and improve their prognosis once severe acute exacerbation was diagnosed.
Computed tomography-guided permanent brachytherapy for locoregional recurrent gastric cancer
Authors: Shi Liangrong , Wu Changping , Wu Jun , Zhou Wenjie , Ji Mei , Zhang Hongyu , Zhao Jiemin , Huang Yuanquan , Pei Honglei , Li Zhong , Ju Jingfang , Jiang Jingting
Published: July 2012

Background

Locoregional recurrence is the typical pattern of recurrence in gastric cancer, and cannot be removed by surgery in most of the patients. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of computed tomography (CT)-guided brachytherapy for patients with locoregional recurrent gastric cancer.

Materials and methods

We reviewed the case histories of 28 patients with locoregional recurrent gastric cancer that were selected for CT- guided brachytherapy by a multidisciplinary team. The clinical data of the patients including patient characteristics, treatment parameters, short-term effects, and survival data were collected and analyzed.

Results

15-75 125I seeds were implanted into each patient to produce a minimal peripheral dose (MPD) 100-160 Gy. Median day 0 dosimetry was significant for the following: V100 (the volume treated with the prescription dose) 95.8% (90.2-120.5%) and D90 (prescription dose received by at least 90% of the volume) 105.2% (98.0-124.6%) of prescription dose. No serious complications occurred during the study. Two months after brachytherapy, complete response, partial response and progressive disease were observed in 50.0%, 28.6% and 21.4% of patients, respectively. The median survival time was 22.0 ± 5.2 months, and the 1, 2,and 3-year survival rate was 89 ± 6%, 52 ± 10% and 11 ± 7%, respectively. A univariate analysis showed that the tumor size was a significant predictor of overall survival (P = 0.034). Patients with tumors <3 cm had relatively higher complete response rate (66.7%), compared to those with tumors >3 cm (30.8%). The PTV (planning target volume) smaller than 45 cm3 was significantly correlated with achieving complete tumor eradication in the treated region (P = 0.020).

Conclusions

For selected patients with limited locoregional recurrent gastric cancer, CT-guided brachytherapy using 125I seeds implantation can provide a high local control rate, with minimal trauma.
Gene therapy using IL-27 ameliorates Sjögren's syndrome-like autoimmune exocrinopathy
Authors: Lee Byung Ha , Carcamo Wendy C , Chiorini John A , Peck Ammon B , Nguyen Cuong Q
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by decreased salivary and lacrimal gland secretions, resulting in severe dry mouth and dry eyes. Recent studies have suggested that TH17 cells and its signature cytokine IL-17 are involved in the underlying pathogenic mechanisms leading to destructive inflammation and autoimmunity. In the present study, we examined whether IL-27, a natural inhibitor of TH17 activity, could down-regulate or reverse SjS in C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice, a model of primary-SjS.

Methods

Recombinant serotype 2 adeno-associated viral (AAV2) vectors expressing either IL-27 (rAAV2-IL27) or LacZ (rAAV2-LacZ) were injected into 6 or 14 week-old C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice. Changes in IL-27, IL-17, and IL-10 cytokine levels in peripheral blood were determined by ELISAs, while flow cytometry analyses were used to quantify cytokine-positive splenocytes. Histological assessment of salivary glands, anti-nuclear autoantibody (ANA) staining, and stimulated saliva flow rates were used to profile SjS disease severity.

Results

Mice systemically treated with intravenous rAAV2-IL27 injections at either 6 or 14 weeks of age exhibited long-term elevated levels of serum IL-27 with concomitantly reduced levels of IL-17 compared with sera from mice injected with rAAV2-LacZ or saline out to 20 weeks post-inoculation. Most importantly, disease profiles revealed that rAAV2-IL27 treatment had little effect on lymphocytic focus (LF) scores, but resulted in structural changes in LF, lower titers of ANAs with changes in staining patterns, and a less severe clinical disease as determined by saliva flow rates.

Conclusions

These data support the concept that IL-27, when provided exogenously, can induce a suppressive effect on SjS development and thus may be an effective therapeutic agent for regulating TH17 pro-inflammatory activity in autoimmune diseases where the TH17 system has been shown to play an important role in their pathogenesis.
Probiotics' effects on the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia in critically ill patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Kai-xiong , Zhu Ying-gang , Zhang Jing , Tao Li-li , Lee Jae-Woo , Wang Xiao-dan , Qu Jie-ming
Published: July 2012

Introduction

To evaluate the efficacy of probiotics in preventing nosocomial pneumonia in critically ill patients.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Web of Science for relevant studies. Two reviewers extracted data and reviewed the quality of the studies independently. The primary outcome was the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia. Study-level data were pooled using a random-effects model when I
2
was > 50% or a fixed-effects model when I
2
was < 50%.

Results

Twelve randomized controlled studies with a total of 1,546 patients were considered. Pooled analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in nosocomial pneumonia rates due to probiotics (odd ratio [OR]= 0.75, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.97, P = 0.03, I
2
= 46%). However, no statistically significant difference was found between groups regarding in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.50 to 1.74, P = 0.82, I
2
= 51%), intensive care unit mortality (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.29, P = 0.43, I
2
= 0%), duration of stay in the hospital (mean difference [MD] in days = -0.13, 95% CI -0.93 to 0.67, P = 0.75, I
2
= 46%), or duration of stay in the intensive care units (MD = -0.72, 95% CI -1.73 to 0.29, P = 0.16, I
2
= 68%).

Conclusions

The use of probiotics was associated with a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of nosocomial pneumonia in critically ill patients. However, large, well-designed, randomized, multi-center trials are needed to confirm any effects of probiotics clinical endpoints such as mortality and length of ICU and hospital stay.
Identification of haplotype tag single nucleotide polymorphisms within the receptor for advanced glycation end products gene and their clinical relevance in patients with major trauma
Authors: Zeng Ling , Zhang An-qiang , Gu Wei , Zhou Jian , Zhang Lian-yang , Du Ding-yuan , Zhang Mao , Wang Hai-yan , Yan Jun , Yang Ce , Jiang Jian-xin
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has been considered as one of the major pattern recognition receptors and plays an important role in the development of sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction in critical illnesses. Although genetic variants of the RAGE gene have been shown to be well associated with susceptibility to some inflammatory diseases, little is known about their clinical relevance in the development of sepsis in critical ill patients.

Methods

Four genetic variants were selected from the entire RAGE gene and genotyped using pyrosequencing and polymerase chain reaction-length polymorphism methods. Association studies were performed in two independent Chinese Han populations.

Results

Among the four genetic variants, only the rs1800625 polymorphism was significantly associated with sepsis morbidity rate and multiple organ dysfunction (MOD) scores in patients with major trauma both in Chongqing (n = 496) and Zhejiang (n = 232) districts, respectively. Results from ex vivo responsiveness of peripheral blood leukocytes indicated that the rs1800625 polymorphism was well associated with decreased production of TNFα. In addition, the rs1800625 polymorphism could significantly inhibit the promoter activities of the RAGE gene.

Conclusions

The rs1800625 polymorphism is a functional variant, which might be used as a relevant risk estimate for the development of sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in patients with major trauma.
Light and the outcome of the critically ill: an observational cohort study
Authors: Castro Ricardo A , Angus Derek C , Hong Seo Yeon , Lee Chingwen , Weissfeld Lisa A , Clermont Gilles , Rosengart Matthew R
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Light before and during acute illness has been associated with both benefit and harm in animal models and small human studies. Our objective was to determine the associations of light duration (photoperiod) and intensity (insolation) before and during critical illness with hospital mortality in ICU patients. Based on the 'winter immunoenhancement' theory, we tested the hypothesis that a shorter photoperiod before critical illness is associated with improved survival.

Methods

We analyzed data from 11,439 patients admitted to 8 ICUs at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center between June 30, 1999 and July 31, 2004. Daily photoperiod and insolation prior to and after ICU admission were estimated for each patient by using data provided by the United States Naval Observatory and National Aeronautics and Space Administration and direct measurement of light gradient from outside to bedside for each ICU room. Our primary outcome was hospital mortality. The association between light and risk of death was analyzed using multivariate analyses, adjusting for potential confounders, including severity of illness, case mix, and ICU type.

Results

The cohort had an average APACHE III of 52.9 and a hospital mortality of 10.7%. In total, 128 ICU beds were analyzed; 108 (84%) had windows. Pre-illness photoperiod ranged from 259 to 421 hours in the prior month. A shorter photoperiod was associated with a reduced risk of death: for each 1-hour decrease, the adjusted OR was 0.997 (0.994 to 0.999, p = 0.03). In the ICU, there was near complete (99.6%) degradation of natural light from outside to the ICU bed. Thus, light exposure once in the ICU approached zero; the 24-hour insolation was 0.005 ± 0.003 kWh/m2 with little diurnal variation. There was no association between ICU photoperiod or insolation and mortality.

Conclusions

Consistent with the winter immunoenhancement theory, a shorter photoperiod in the month before critical illness is associated with a reduced risk of death. Once in the ICU, patients are exposed to near negligible natural light despite the presence of windows. Further studies are warranted to determine the underlying mechanisms and whether manipulating light exposure, before or during ICU admission, can enhance survival.
Six Cycles of Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide or Paclitaxel Are Not Superior to Four Cycles As Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer in Women With Zero to Three Positive Axillary Nodes: Cancer and Leukemia Group B 40101
Authors: Shulman Lawrence N. , Cirrincione Constance T. , Berry Donald A. , Becker Heather P. , Perez Edith A. , O'Regan Ruth , Martino Silvana , Atkins James N. , Mayer Erica , Schneider Charles J. , Kimmick Gretchen , Norton Larry , Muss Hyman , Winer Eric P. , Hudis Clifford
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The ideal duration of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with lower risk primary breast cancer is not known. Cancer and Leukemia Group B trial 40101 was conducted using a phase III factorial design to define whether six cycles of a chemotherapy regimen are superior to four cycles. We also sought to determine whether paclitaxel (T) is as efficacious as doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (AC), but with reduced toxicity.

Patients and Methods

Between 2002 and 2008, the study enrolled women with operable breast cancer and zero to three positive nodes. Patients were randomly assigned to either four or six cycles of either AC or T. Study stratifiers were estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PgR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and menopausal status. After 2003, all treatment was administered in dose-dense fashion. The primary efficacy end point was relapse-free survival (RFS).

Results

A total of 3,171 patients were enrolled; 94% were node-negative and 6% had one to three positive nodes. At a median follow-up of 5.3 years, the 4-year RFS was 90.9% and 91.8% for six and four cycles, respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of six to four cycles regarding RFS was 1.03 (95% CI, 0.84 to 1.28; P = .77). The 4-year OS was 95.3% and 96.3% for six and four cycles, respectively, with an HR of six to four cycles of 1.12 (95% CI, 0.84 to 1.49; P = .44). There was no interaction between treatment duration and chemotherapy regimen, ER/PgR, or HER2 status on RFS or OS.

Conclusion

For women with resected primary breast cancer and zero to three positive nodes, we found no evidence that extending chemotherapy regimens of AC or single-agent T from four to six cycles improves clinical outcome.
Wnt5a signaling controls cytokinesis by positioning ESCRT-III to the proper site at the midbody
Authors: Fumoto Katsumi , Kikuchi Koji , Gon Hidetoshi , Kikuchi Akira
Published: July 2012

Wnts activate at least two signaling pathways, the β-catenin-dependent and -independent pathways. Although the β-catenin-dependent pathway is known to contribute to G1/S transition, involvement of the β-catenin-independent pathway in cell cycle regulation remains unclear. Here, we show that Wnt5a signaling, which activates the β-catenin-independent pathway, is required for cytokinesis. Dishevelled 2 (Dvl2), a mediator of Wnt signaling pathways, was localized to the midbody during cytokinesis. Beside the localization of Dvl2, Fz2, a Wnt receptor, was detected in the midbody with an endosomal sorting complex required for transport III (ESCRT-III) subunit, CHMP4B. Depletion of Wnt5a, its receptors, and Dvl increased multinucleated cells. The phenotype observed in Wnt5a-depleted cells was rescued by the addition of purified Wnt5a but not that of Wnt3a, which is a ligand for the β-catenin-dependent pathway. Moreover, depletion of Wnt5a signaling caused loss of stabilized microtubules and mislocalization of CHMP4B in the midbody, which affected abscission. Inhibition of the stabilization of microtubules at the midbody lead to the mislocalization of CHMP4B, while depletion of CHMP4B did not affect the stabilization of microtubules, suggesting that the correct localization of CHMP4B depends on microtubules. Fz2 was localized to the midbody in a Rab11-dependent manner probably along stabilized microtubules. Fz2 formed a complex with CHMP4B upon Wnt5a stimulation and was required for proper localization of CHMP4B at the midbody, while CHMP4B was not necessary for the localization of Fz2. These results suggest that Wnt5a signaling positions ESCRT-III in the midbody properly for abscission by stabilizing midbody microtubules.
Genetic identification of intracellular trafficking regulators involved in notch dependent binary cell fate acquisition following asymmetric cell division
Authors: Le Bras Stéphanie , Rondanino Christine , Kriegel-Taki Géraldine , Dussert Aurore , Le Borgne Roland
Published: July 2012

Notch signaling is involved in numerous cellular processes during development and throughout adult life. Although ligands and receptors are largely expressed in the whole organism, activation of Notch receptors only takes place in a subset of cells and/or tissues and is accurately regulated in time and space. Previous studies have demonstrated that endocytosis and recycling of both ligands and/or receptors are essential for this regulation. However, the precise endocytic routes, compartments and regulators involved in the spatio temporal regulation are largely unknown.

In order to identify Notch signaling intracellular trafficking regulators, we have undertaken a tissue-specific dsRNA genetic screen against candidates potentially involved in endocytosis and recycling within the endolysosomal pathway. dsRNA against 418 genes was induced in Drosophila melanogaster sensory organ lineage in which Notch signaling regulates binary cell fate acquisition. Gain- or loss-of Notch signaling phenotypes were observed in adult sensory organs for 113 of them. Furthermore, 26 genes presented a change in the steady state localization of Notch, Sanpodo, a Notch co-factor, and/or Delta in the pupal lineage. In particular, we identified 20 genes with previously unknown function in Drosophila melanogaster intracellular trafficking. Among them, we identified CG2747 and show that it regulates the localization of clathrin adaptor AP-1 complex, a negative regulator of Notch signaling. All together, our results further demonstrate the essential function of intracellular trafficking in regulating Notch signaling-dependent binary cell fate acquisition and constitute an additional step toward the elucidation of the routes followed by Notch receptor and ligands to signal.
The Rachel Nickell case: reflections on the significance
Authors: Samuels Alec
Published: July 2012

Fallibility of DNA; retention of DNA; acceptability of police methods of inducing a confession; reliability of expert profiling; compensation for the falsely accused.
Best approaches in the battle against Globesity? Learning lessons from our experience tackling HIV-AIDS and tobacco smoking
Authors: Heymann Eric P , Goldsmith David
Published: July 2012

In 2008, two-thirds of the annual global death toll was attributable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Defined as chronic conditions often caused or exacerbated by non-obligated lifestyle behaviours, the NCD epidemic has been fuelled by a combination of risk factors, including tobacco use, an unhealthy diet combined with lack of physical activity and overweight-obesity, and harmful alcohol use. The health consequences are mainly seen as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory problems. Generally associated with the West, they are now recognized as a global threat to public health. They are also an unsupportable global health economic burden. NCDs incidence can be significantly reduced through the adoption of proven and affordable interventional measures which are complementary to global health efforts already underway. To head off the certain future surge in morbidity and mortality, at record costs to health budgets worldwide, there is a pressing need to change global population's behaviours and choices in relation to these risk factors. The most pressing challenge in NCD prevention is combating the rise in overweight-obesity, which threatens individuals, communities and countries as never before. If not overcome, this may undo much of the progress seen in reducing the incidence of myocardial infarctions, strokes and some cancers evident from the 1960s onwards.
Early Growth of Infantile Hemangiomas: What Parents’ Photographs Tell Us
Authors: Tollefson Megha M. , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Infantile hemangiomas (IH) are recognized as growing rapidly during the first months of life, but details of early growth before 3 months of age have not been well-characterized. Our goal was to study early IH growth by using parental photographs of infant children with facial IHs to better understand early hemangioma growth, with the aim of improving guidance for physicians and parents of infants with high-risk IH.

METHODS:

Serial images of 30 infants showing IH at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks up to 6 months were analyzed for characteristics of color, thickness, and distortion of anatomic landmarks. The presence or absence of an IH precursor at birth was noted. Mean scores per age interval were compiled. Results were analyzed by using signed rank test. An assessment of “optimal time for referral” was made.

RESULTS:

IH growth was nonlinear; most rapid growth occurred between 5.5 and 7.5 weeks of age. The mean “optimal age for referral” was 4 weeks of age. Hemangioma precursors were present at birth in 65% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

The most rapid hemangioma growth occurs before 8 weeks of age, much earlier than previously appreciated. Specialty evaluation and initiation of treatment, however, typically occur after the age of most rapid growth. Our findings suggest a need for a paradigm shift in the timing of referral and initiation of treatment of high-risk IH so that therapy can be initiated before or early in the course of most rapid growth, rather than after it is already completed.
The HEADS-ED: A Rapid Mental Health Screening Tool for Pediatric Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Cappelli Mario , Gray Clare , Zemek Roger , Cloutier Paula , Kennedy Allison , Glennie Elizabeth , Doucet Guy , Lyons John S.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

The American Academy of Pediatrics called for action for improved screening of mental health issues in the emergency department (ED). We developed the rapid screening tool home, education, activities/peers, drugs/alcohol, suicidality, emotions/behavior, discharge resources (HEADS-ED), which is a modification of “HEADS,” a mnemonic widely used to obtain a psychosocial history in adolescents. The reliability and validity of the tool and its potential for use as a screening measure are presented.

METHODS:

ED patients presenting with mental health concerns from March 1 to May 30, 2011 were included. Crisis intervention workers completed the HEADS-ED and the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths-Mental Health tool (CANS MH) and patients completed the Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI). Interrater reliability was assessed by using a second HEADS-ED rater for 20% of the sample.

RESULTS:

A total of 313 patients were included, mean age was 14.3 (SD 2.63), and there were 182 females (58.1%). Interrater reliability was 0.785 (P < .001). Correlations were computed for each HEADS-ED category and items from the CANS MH and the CDI. Correlations ranged from r = 0.17, P < .05 to r = 0.89, P < .000. The HEADS-ED also predicted psychiatric consult and admission to inpatient psychiatry (sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 87%; area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.82, P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

The results provide evidence to support the psychometric properties of the HEADS-ED. The study shows promising results for use in ED decision-making for pediatric patients with mental health concerns.
Pediatric Versus Adult Drug Trials for Conditions With High Pediatric Disease Burden
Authors: Bourgeois Florence T. , Murthy Srinivas , Pinto Catia , Olson Karen L. , Ioannidis John P.A. , Mandl Kenneth D.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Optimal treatment decisions in children require sufficient evidence on the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals in pediatric patients. However, there is concern that not enough trials are conducted in children and that pediatric trials differ from those performed in adults. Our objective was to measure the prevalence of pediatric studies among clinical drug trials and compare trial characteristics and quality indicators between pediatric and adult drug trials.

METHODS:

For conditions representing a high burden of pediatric disease, we identified all drug trials registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with start dates between 2006 and 2011 and tracked the resulting publications. We measured the proportion of pediatric trials and subjects for each condition and compared pediatric and adult trial characteristics and quality indicators.

RESULTS:

For the conditions selected, 59.9% of the disease burden was attributable to children, but only 12.0% (292/2440) of trials were pediatric (P < .001). Among pediatric trials, 58.6% were conducted without industry funding compared with 35.0% of adult trials (P < .001).

Fewer pediatric compared with adult randomized trials examined safety outcomes (10.1% vs 16.9%, P = .008). Pediatric randomized trials were slightly more likely to be appropriately registered before study start (46.9% vs 39.3%, P = .04) and had a modestly higher probability of publication in the examined time frame (32.8% vs 23.2%, P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS:

There is substantial discrepancy between pediatric burden of disease and the amount of clinical trial research devoted to pediatric populations. This may be related in part to trial funding, with pediatric trials relying primarily on government and nonprofit organizations.
Dynamics Induced by Femtosecond Laser and Photovoltaic Phenomena Studied by Using Time-Dependent First Principles Method
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2012

In this work, the first-principles computational scheme of electron-ion dynamics based on the time-dependent density functional theory is presented as a tool to study dynamical phenomena induced by light. Two applications of computations for photo-induced phenomena are shown. The one is structural change induced by intense and short laser shot with a purpose to simulate experiments using the femtosecond laser. The other is photo-excitation and subsequent carrier splitting into electrons and holes, which is a key process needed in photovoltaic materials.
Pulsed Laser Modification of the Growth of Ge Quantum Dots on Si(100)-(2x1)
Authors: Er Ali Oguz , Elsayed-Ali Hani E.
Published: July 2012

Ge quantum dots were grown on Si(100)-(2x1) using pulsed laser deposition while the laser is also exciting the substrate during film growth. The growth mode and morphology was probed by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). Epitaxial growth at a substrate temperature of ∼250 °C was achieved by using laser excitation of the substrate. The morphology of the quantum dots changed with increased laser excitation energy density although the faceting of the individual quantum dots remained the same. A purely electronic mechanism of enhanced surface diffusion of the Ge adatoms is proposed.
Laser cleaning of exfoliated graphene
Authors: Ochedowski Oliver , Bußmann Benedict Kleine , Schleberger Marika
Published: July 2012

We have employed atomic force and Kelvin-Probe force microscopy to study graphene sheets exfoliated on TiO2 under the influence of local heating achieved by laser irradiation. Exfoliation and irradiation took place under ambient conditions, the measurements were performed in ultra high vacuum. We show that after irradiation times of 6 min, an increase of the surface potential is observed which indicates a decrease of p-type carrier concentration. We attribute this effect to the removal of adsorbates like water and oxygen. After irradiation times of 12 min our topography images reveal severe structural modifications of graphene. These resemble the nanocrystallite network which form on graphene/SiO2 but after much longer irradiation times. From our results we propose that short laser heating at moderate powers might offer a way to clean graphene without inducing unwanted structural modifications.
Long-term Adhesion Studies of Polyimide to Inorganic and Metallic Layers
Authors: Ordonez Juan S. , Boehler Christian , Schuettler Martin , Stieglitz Thomas
Published: July 2012

Delamination between thin-film metal and substrate is a major cause of failure in polyimide based neural microelectrode arrays. Chemical adhesion is the only way to establish a long-term bond that will allow two materials to stick to each other even in a wet environment, given that the materials do not deteriorate in the presence of water. This study assesses, by means of peel and shear tests, a long-term quantitative and comparative study of the adhesion of polyimide to various metallic and other inorganic layers of interest. Polyimide (BPDA-PPD) was cured on the layers, which involve platinum, gold and tungsten-titanium as commonly used implant metals and diamond-like carbon (DLC), silicon carbide (SiC), silicon dioxide (SiO2) and silicone nitride (SiN) as potential adhesion promoters to be used later as intermediate layers between metal and polyimide. The adhesion was observed over one year under accelerated-aging conditions by storing the specimens in 60°C saline (corresponding to 40000 hrs at 37°C). Only silicon carbide and amorphous carbon showed almost unaffected adhesion to polyimide over the testing period. No water intrusion at the interface was observed and the strong bond is almost fully maintained.
Knowledge Diversity in the Emerging Global Bio-Nano Sector
Authors: Maine Elicia , Bliemel Martin , Murira Armstrong , Utterback James
Published: July 2012

ASTRACT

As scientists are able to understand and manipulate ever smaller scales of matter, research in the fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology has converged to enable such radical innovations as lab-on-a-chip devices, targeted drug delivery, and other forms of minimally invasive therapy and diagnostics. This paper provides a descriptive overview of the emerging bio-nano sector, identifying what types of firms are entering, from what knowledge base, where they are located, and their strategic choices in terms of technological diversity and R&D strategy. The firms engaged in bio-nano research and development span the range from start-up firm to multinational pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical, and electronics firms: two thirds of bio-nano firms are relatively young and relatively small. The United States dominates this sector, with more than half of all bio-nano firms located in the USA. Even within this sector which epitomizes the convergence of technology, there is a broad range of technological diversity, with the most diverse firms overall coming from a base in electronics, the most diverse start-up firms coming from a base in nanomaterials, and the most narrowly focused firms coming from a biotechnology/pharmaceutical base. We find that hybridization has been the dominant knowledge diversity strategy, with 93% of the bio-nano firms with nano-patents holding multiclass patents.
Magnetic properties of Fe-pnictides superconductors as a function of pressure and doping
Authors: Profeta Gianni , Colonna Nicola , Continenza Alessandra
Published: July 2012

We present a first principles study of the electronic and magnetic properties of Fe-based pnicitdes superconductors as a function of pressure and doping. We show that the magnetic phase and a local magnetic moment persists at doping level quite larger than what found in experiments and the pressure phase diagram consists of a paramagnetic, antiferromagnetic and non-magnetic phases.

Although this result calls for the inclusion of long-wavelength or local fluctuations of iron magnetic moment and non-hydrostatic pressure effects, in order to improve the theoretical description of real experimental conditions, recent photoemission experiments[1] reconcile these DFT results, showing a local magnetic moment on Fe site different from zero in the paramagnetic, antiferromagnetic and the superconducting phase.
Morphology-induced hydrophobic behavior of electrospun polyhydroxyalkanoate membranes
Authors: Domínguez-Díaz Maraolina , Romo-Uribe Angel , Flores Araceli , Cruz-Silva Rodolfo
Published: July 2012

Biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) -PHB- and the copolymers with poly (3-hydroxyvalerate) -PHB/HV, containing 5 and 12 mol% valerate (denoted PHB/5HV and PHB/12HV, respectively) were electrospun from chloroform solution at room temperature. The results showed that relatively low voltage and concentrations favored uniform filament formation in PHB, with filament diameters ranging from 3 to 7 micrometers. On the other hand, low molecular weight and low solution concentration favored uniform filament formation in the PHB/5HV copolymer. Strikingly, morphology of filaments and beads favored the membranes hydrophobic behavior; the membrane from PHB/12HV exhibited a water contact angle of 112°. In contrast, solution cast films from the PHAs exhibited water contact angles in the range of 65°. Analyses on the membranes morphology via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that filament diameter drives the degree of porosity and the hydrophobic behavior of the electrospun membranes.
Photonic active filters based on SiC multilayer structures
Authors: Vieira M. A. , Vieira M. , Louro P. , Silva V. , Costa J. , Barata M.
Published: July 2012

Tunable WDM converters based on amorphous SiC multilayer photonic active filters are analyzed. The manipulation of the magnitude is achieved through appropriated front and back backgrounds. Transfer function characteristics are studied. Results show that the light-activated device combines the demultiplexing operation with the simultaneous photodetection and self amplification of an optical signal. Depending on the wavelength of the external background and irradiation side, it acts either as a short- or a long- pass band filter or as a band-stop filter. A combinational logic function is mapped onto an active two stage optoelectronic logic circuit. An algorithm to decode the multiplex signal is established. An optoelectronic model supports the optoelectronic logic architecture.
Graphene-Based All-Solid-State Supercapacitor with Ionic Liquid Gel Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Pandey G. P. , Rastogi A. C.
Published: July 2012

Graphene-based all-solid-state supercapacitors the using ionic liquid gel polymer electrolyte have been fabricated and characterized. The gel polymer electrolyte has been prepared by immobilizing ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIBF4) with poly(vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene). Cyclic voltammetry studies show highly capacitive behavior under fast scan rates. Impedance analysis show nominal charge transfer and ion diffusion at pores related resistance contributions. The graphene-based solid-state supercapacitor shows optimum capacitance of 80 mF cm-2 (equivalent to the single electrode specific capacitance of 76 F g-1). This corresponded to the specific energy of 7.4 Wh kg-1 and specific power of 4.5 kW kg-1. The supercapacitor cell shows stable cyclic performances for up to 5000 cycles and possibly beyond.
Modification of High Potential, High Capacity Li2FeP2O7Cathode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Tan Jiajia , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: July 2012

Li2FeP2O7is a newly developed polyanionic cathode material for high performance lithium ion batteries. It is considered very attractive due to its large specific capacity, good thermal and chemical stability, and environmental benignity. However, the application of Li2FeP2O7is limited by its low ionic and electronic conductivities. To overcome the above problem, a solution-based technique was successfully developed to synthesize Li2FeP2O7powders with very fine and uniform particle size (< 1 μm), achieving much faster kinetics. The obtained Li2FeP2O7powders were tested in lithium ion batteries by measurements of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling. We found that the modified Li2FeP2O7cathode could maintain a relatively high capacity even at fast discharge rates.
Block Copolymer Assisted Fabrication of Graphene/Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Architectures and Their Application in Supercapacitors
Authors: George Aaron S. , Ghazinejad Maziar , Wang Wei , Ruiz Isaac , Ozkan Mihrimah , Ozkan Cengiz S.
Published: July 2012

Sustainable energy is currently limited by the ability of materials to store energy and deliver it on demand. Allotropes of carbon are attractive for their potential for use in energy storage due to low weight, high chemical stability and low production cost. Carbon nanotubes and graphene can be combined to provide an effective three-dimensional material with high conductivity and high surface area. We demonstrate the use of block copolymers to obtain patterned arrays of iron nanoparticles which give rise to ordered carbon nanotubes with good size distribution. A one-step chemical vapor deposition process for large-area fabrication of the graphene and carbon nanotube hybrid structure is described. Following chemical vapor deposition the hybrid material is demonstrated in a supercapacitor device. The fabricated supercapacitor exhibits high electrical conductivity, and has potential for extremely high energy storage capability.
Design Considerations to Improve Transport in Porous Electrodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Chandrasekaran Rajeswari , Drews Andrew , Shaligram Apoorv , Sakamoto Jeffrey
Published: July 2012

The relationship between tortuosity and porosity and its influence on effective transport properties in lithium-ion cells was analyzed. The variation in cell performance with changes in component thicknesses, porosities and tortuosities was investigated. Optimal, novel electrode designs are developed to improve their rate capability even at higher active material loadings.
Briefing: Installing cable for Statoil Gjøa floating platform in the North Sea
Authors: Readyhough Andy
Published: July 2012

Global Marine Systems and ABB worked together to install the subsea cable, Gjøa, that brings electricity from the Mongstad refinery, north of Bergen, Norway, to the floating production platform in the North Sea. Gjøa is the first floating platform to have power supplied by a direct link from the shore. The installation of the power cable was successfully completed on 17 May 2010 and the cable went live on 11 July 2010. This paper outlines the cutting-edge techniques that were used in the cable installation and which will bring benefits to offshore structure developments, such as wind farms, that will be vital for the next generation of developments.
Prospects for underground coal gasification in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Richardson Rick J. H. , Singh Surindar
Published: July 2012

Coal-bearing formations underlie approximately 303 000 km2 of Alberta. Coal seams can be traced in the subsurface, in hundreds of thousands of boreholes, over tens of kilometres and coal zones over hundreds of kilometres. Alberta has 2000 Gt of coal resource containing more than three times the energy content of Alberta’s oil sands (in-place bitumen resources at 1·8 trillion barrels); however, much of the coal is too deep or too costly to mine and it appeared that most of this vast resource would never be exploited. Underground coal gasification (UCG) linked to various carbon dioxide capture and geological storage technologies offers a way that Alberta’s coal resources can be utilised in a ‘carbon constrained’ world. With coal having been gasified at depths up to 1400 m, in an Albertan UCG pilot project, the huge coal endowment can be recognised as a potential answer for North America’s energy demand.