bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micellar liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous determination of Levofloxacin and Ambroxol in combined tablets: Application to biological fluids
Authors: Belal Fathalla F , Sharaf El-Din Mohie K , El-Enany Nahed M , Saad Samar
Published: October 2013

Background

Levofloxacin hemihydrate (LEV) and ambroxol HCl (AMB) are available for the treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections. A survey of the literature reveals that two reversed phase HPLC methods were e reported for the simultaneous determination of LEV and AMB in pharmaceutical preparations. However the reported methods suffers from the low sensitivity, no application of the method in the combined tablets and no application to biological fluids. Also the toxic effects of the used solvents which are harmful to human beings. For this reason, our target was to develop a simple sensitive, less hazardous micellar HPLC method for the simultaneous determination of LEV and AMB in their combined dosage forms and plasma.

Results

The method showed good linearity over the ranges of 1–44 μg/mL and 1–20 μg/mL with limits of detection 0.26 and 0.07 μg/mL and limits of quantification 0.80 and 0.20 μg/mL for LEV and AMB, respectively. The method was further extended to the determination of LEV in spiked human plasma with mean percentage recoveries of 100.10% ± 1.14 as well as determination of LEV in real human plasma without prior extraction. Statistical evaluation of the data was performed according to ICH Guidelines.

Conclusion

The suggested method was successfully applied for the simultaneous analysis of the studied drugs in their co-formulated tablets and human plasma. The mean percentage recoveries in combined tablets were 100.20 ± 1.64 and 100.72 ± 1.11 for LEV and AMB, respectively and 100.10 ± 1.14 for LEV in spiked human plasma. Statistical comparison of the results with those of the comparison method revealed good agreement and proved that there were no significant difference in the accuracy and precision between the two methods respectively.
Improvement of plant growth and seed yield in Jatropha curcas by a novel nitrogen-fixing root associated Enterobacter species
Authors: Madhaiyan Munusamy , Peng Ni , Te Ngoh Si , Hsin I Cheng , Lin Cai , Lin Fu , Reddy Chalapathy , Yan Hong , Ji Lianghui
Published: October 2013

Background

Jatropha curcas L. is an oil seed producing non-leguminous tropical shrub that has good potential to be a fuel plant that can be cultivated on marginal land. Due to the low nutrient content of the targeted plantation area, the requirement for fertilizer is expected to be higher than other plants. This factor severely affects the commercial viability of J. curcas.

Results

We explored the feasibility to use endophytic nitrogen-fixing bacteria that are native to J. curcas to improve plant growth, biomass and seed productivity. We demonstrated that a novel N-fixing endophyte, Enterobacter sp. R4-368, was able to colonize in root and stem tissues and significantly promoted early plant growth and seed productivity of J. curcas in sterilized and non-sterilized soil. Inoculation of young seedling led to an approximately 57.2% increase in seedling vigour over a six week period. At 90 days after planting, inoculated plants showed an average increase of 25.3%, 77.7%, 27.5%, 45.8% in plant height, leaf number, chlorophyll content and stem volume, respectively. Notably, inoculation of the strain led to a 49.0% increase in the average seed number per plant and 20% increase in the average single seed weight when plants were maintained for 1.5 years in non-sterilized soil in pots in the open air. Enterobacter sp. R4-368 cells were able to colonize root tissues and moved systemically to stem tissues. However, no bacteria were found in leaves. Promotion of plant growth and leaf nitrogen content by the strain was partially lost in nifH, nifD, nifK knockout mutants, suggesting the presence of other growth promoting factors that are associated with this bacterium strain.

Conclusion

Our results showed that Enterobacter sp. R4-368 significantly promoted growth and seed yield of J. curcas. The application of the strains is likely to significantly improve the commercial viability of J. curcas due to the reduced fertilizer cost and improved oil yield.
Experimental liver fibrosis research: update on animal models, legal issues and translational aspects
Authors: Liedtke Christian , Luedde Tom , Sauerbruch Tilman , Scholten David , Streetz Konrad , Tacke Frank , Tolba René , Trautwein Christian , Trebicka Jonel , Weiskirchen Ralf
Published: October 2013

Liver fibrosisis defined as excessive extracellular matrix deposition and is based on complex interactions between matrix-producing hepatic stellate cells and an abundance of liver-resident and infiltrating cells. Investigation of these processes requiresin vitroandin vivoexperimental work in animals. However, the use of animals in translational research will be increasingly challenged, at least in countries of the European Union, because of the adoption of new animal welfare rules in 2013. These rules will create an urgent need for optimized standard operating procedures regarding animal experimentation and improved international communication in the liver fibrosis community. This review gives an update on current animal models, techniques and underlying pathomechanisms with the aim of fostering a critical discussion of the limitations and potential of up-to-date animal experimentation. We discuss potential complications in experimental liver fibrosis and provide examples of how the findings of studies in which these models are used can be translated to human disease and therapy. In this review, we want to motivate the international community to design more standardized animal models which might help to address the legally requested replacement, refinement and reduction of animals in fibrosis research.
Habitat use by giant pandas Ailuropoda melanoleuca in the Wanglang Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China
Authors: Kang Dong-Wei , Yang Hong-Wei , Li Jun-Qing , Chen You-Ping , Zhao Lian-Jun
Published: October 2013

Background

To better understand the ecological requirements of the giant panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca in the wild, field surveys were carried out at both the microhabitat scale and foraging site scale in Wanglang National Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China.

Results

The results indicated that (1) at the microhabitat scale, giant pandas usually occupied habitats with a high fallen-log density, lower shrub density, and bamboo coverage of 50% to 75%; (2) at the foraging site scale, pandas usually used sites with higher bamboo densities and taller and larger-diameter bamboo; and (3) giant pandas may abandon plots when the proportion of young bamboo decreases below average in the environment.

Conclusions

The availability of young bamboo is an important driving force in habitat selection by giant pandas, which could provide important reference for the conservation of giant pandas and their habitats.
Investigation of the renewed diseases on murals at Mogao Grottoes
Authors: Li Jiamin , Zhang Hui , Fan Zaixuan , He Xiang , He Shimin , Sun Mingyuan , Ma Yimin , Fang Shiqiang , Zhang Huabing , Zhang Bingjian
Published: October 2013

In the past few decades, a series of research, restoration and protection have been performed on the ancient murals in Mogao Grottoes. These treatments played significant roles in the conservation of the elegant art in Dunhuang. But whether the protection and reinforcement are still active and which materials are more appropriate remain unknown. These issues are crucial for the conservation of murals. On-site investigation on the murals in Mogao Grottoes has been carried out. The purpose of this investigation is to examine the renewed diseases of the murals which have been repaired before. It will also provide useful information about the function of conservation materials and their degradation mechanism.
Automatic evaluation technique for certain types of open questions in semantic learning systems
Authors: Elsayed Eman , Eldahshan Kamal , Tawfeek Shaimaa
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we propose a methodology to enhance the evaluation tools in semantic learning systems. Our proposal’s aim is to evaluate two types of open questions in hybrid exams. The proposed technique in the first type MOQ (Multi Operations Question) uses the matrix concept for fuzzy score. But POQ (Proof Open Question) is more complicated so we use direct connect to learning objects which saved as ontology based. Also take into consideration the dependence among learning objects so we merge the universal ontology with weight matrix.

The proposed methodology has been applied to the case study of the mathematical multi operations question and the proof question on a logic course in a hybrid exam.
Effect of copper sulfate on the survival and growth performance of Caspian Sea kutum, Rutilus frisii kutum
Authors: Gharedaashi Esmail , Nekoubin Hamed , Imanpoor Mohammad Reza , Taghizadeh Vahid
Published: October 2013

The aim of present study was to determine the LC50/96 h value of copper sulfate and determine the growth performance of Caspian Sea kutum) Rutilus frisii kutum (fingerlings during 60-days sub-lethal copper (Cu). After acclimation period to two weeks, for determine the LC50/96 h value, total of 27 aquarium with a capacity of 60 L each stocked with 10 fishes an aquarium. Tunney four aquarium and 8 concentrations of (Cu) composed the 24 treatments while 3 other aquaria were used as control. For each treatment, three replications were conducted. And experiment to determine the growth performance fish were transferred into fiberglass aquaria of 200 L water capacity for growth trials. The treated fish were kept in the aquarium containing sub-lethal concentrations of Cu (0.11 and 0.23 mg L-1) and affected to grow for 60 days, while control fish were placed in metal free water. The results indicated that median lethal concentrations (LC50) of copper to Caspian Sea kutum for 96 h exposure was 2.310 ppm. The chronic sub-lethal water-borne Cu exposure to the fish exerted that fish had significantly decreased final body weight in comparison to control group. The copper sulfate also had significant negative effects on specific growth rate (SGR) and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) in comparison to those fed the control group. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) and condition factor (CF) were significantly increased in comparison with the control group (P < 0.05). Also survival rate in experimental treatments in comparison with control group, was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The treated fish exhibited significantly lower body weight and length gains than that of control. The increments of fish weights, fork and total lengths, condition factor, feed intake and condition factor of treated and control fish varied significantly during study period. Hence, concluded that copper sulfate is toxic for Caspian sea kutum (Rutilus frisii kutum).
Randomized Multicenter Phase II Trial Comparing Two Schedules of Etirinotecan Pegol (NKTR-102) in Women With Recurrent Platinum-Resistant/Refractory Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Vergote Ignace B. , Garcia Agustin , Micha John , Pippitt Charles , Bendell Johanna , Spitz Daniel , Reed Nicholas , Dark Graham , Fracasso Paula M. , Ibrahim Emad N. , Armenio Vincent A. , Duska Linda , Poole Chris , Gennigens Christine , Dirix Luc Y. , Leung Abraham C.F. , Zhao Carol , Soufi-Mahjoubi Raoudha , Rustin Gordon
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Etirinotecan pegol (NKTR-102) is a unique, long-acting topoisomerase-I inhibitor with prolonged systemic exposure to SN38 (7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin), the active metabolite of irinotecan. This randomized phase II trial investigated two dosing schedules of etirinotecan pegol in patients with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian carcinoma.

Patients and Methods

A total of 71 eligible patients were randomly assigned to receive etirinotecan pegol 145 mg/m2 every 14 or 21 days until progression or unacceptable adverse events (AEs). The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR) by RECIST (version 1.0). Secondary end points included response by Gynecologic Cancer Intergroup criteria, duration of ORR, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

The overall confirmed ORR was 20% (95% CI, 10% to 30%): 20% for once every 14 days, and 19% for once every 21 days. Median response duration was 4.1 months for once every 14 days and 4.0 months for once every 21 days. Median PFS for every 14 and every 21 days was 4.1 and 5.3 months, respectively, and median OS was 10.0 and 11.7 months, respectively. Etirinotecan pegol was well tolerated, with the most common grade 3 to 4 AEs being dehydration (24%) and diarrhea (23%). Diarrhea, dehydration, nausea, and neutropenia were less frequent with the schedule of once every 21 days than with that of once every 14 days.

Conclusion

Both schedules of etirinotecan pegol showed activity in patients with heavily pretreated ovarian cancer, with encouraging ORR and PFS rates. The schedule of once every 21 days was better tolerated and had slightly longer PFS and OS rates. The treatment schedule of etirinotecan pegol 145 mg/m2 once every 21 days was selected for the expanded phase II study and is preferred for future phase III studies. These findings provide support to directly compare etirinotecan pegol versus one of the approved drugs (eg, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin or topotecan) in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
Randomized Trial to Assess the Impact of Venlafaxine and Soy Protein on Hot Flashes and Quality of Life in Men With Prostate Cancer
Authors: Vitolins Mara Z. , Griffin Leah , Tomlinson W. Vic , Vuky Jacqueline , Adams Paul T. , Moose Dawn , Frizzell Bart , Lesser Glenn J. , Naughton Michelle , Radford James E. , Shaw Edward G.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Hot flashes occur in approximately 80% of androgen-deprived men. Few intervention studies have been conducted to relieve hot flashes in men.

Patients and Methods

Eligible androgen-deprived men were randomly assigned to one of four daily regimens (2 × 2 factorial design) for 12 weeks: milk protein powder and placebo pill, venlafaxine and milk protein powder, soy protein powder and placebo pill, or venlafaxine and soy protein powder. The primary end point was hot flash symptom severity score (HFSSS), defined as number of hot flashes times severity. The secondary end point was quality of life (QoL), assessed by using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate.

Results

In all, 120 men age 46 to 91 years participated. Most were white (78%) and overweight or obese (83%). Toxicity was minimal. Neither venlafaxine nor soy protein alone or in combination had a significant effect on HFSSS. Soy protein, but not venlafaxine, improved measures of QoL.

Conclusion

In androgen-deprived men, neither venlafaxine nor soy proved effective in reducing hot flashes. Interventions that appear effective for decreasing hot flashes in women may not always turn out to be effective in men.
DoBRCA1andBRCA2Mutation Carriers Have Earlier Natural Menopause Than Their Noncarrier Relatives? Results From the Kathleen Cuningham Foundation Consortium for Research Into Familial Breast Cancer
Authors: Collins Ian M. , Milne Roger L. , McLachlan Sue Anne , Friedlander Michael , Hickey Martha , Weideman Prue C. , Birch Kate E. , Hopper John L. , Phillips Kelly-Anne
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Limited data suggest that germline BRCA1 mutations are associated with occult primary ovarian insufficiency and that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers might have earlier natural menopause (NM) than their noncarrier relatives.

Patients and Methods

Eligible women were mutation carriers and noncarriers from families segregating a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Data were self-reported using uniform questionnaires at cohort entry and every 3 years thereafter. NM was defined as the cessation of menses for 12 months without another cause. Cox proportional hazards analysis modeled time from birth to NM, adjusting for multiple potential confounders. Analysis time was censored at the earliest of the following: last follow-up, bilateral oophorectomy, hysterectomy, commencement of hormone therapy, insertion of intrauterine device, or any cancer diagnosis. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated as a measure of how likely mutation carriers are, relative to noncarriers, to reach NM at a given age.

Results

A total of 1,840 women were eligible for analysis. Overall only 19% reached NM. A lower proportion of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers reached NM compared with noncarriers. Conversely, a higher proportion of mutation carriers were censored at cancer diagnosis or oophorectomy than noncarriers. The adjusted HR estimates for NM were 1.03 (95% CI, 0.75 to 1.40; P = .9) for 445 BRCA1 mutation carriers and 559 noncarrier relatives and 1.01 (95% CI, 0.71 to 1.42; P = .9) for 374 BRCA2 mutation carriers and 462 noncarrier relatives.

Conclusion

We found no evidence that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers are at higher risk of NM at a given age than their noncarrier relatives.
Changes Of The Concept Of State Finance And Subjects In Sustainability Context
Authors: Èernius Gintaras
Published: October 2013

In a face of global financial crisis that is currently shaking the world, the issue what is the role of a state in its finance management and how  each state influences, or can influence, its finance is extremely relevant.The objective of  this research is to  identify whether the contemporary approach to public finance and its subjects is suitable  for the effective  financial  management at a state level in present conditions. In order to reach the objective, the research shall examine how the contemporary approach to finance limits possibilities of its management; form new concept of state finance involving private and public finance; and define how  the application of  new, broader, social partnership based approach, might  change financial relationship between a state, citizens, and companies, and how   practical  application  of  this  new approach  might contribute to financial stability of a state. Practical application of the research results would  allow saving 2­4  percent on the interest rates for state loans, create better conditions for the development of state economy, and increase financial sustainability of a state.
Dynamics Of The Development Of 'Risk' Notion In The Psychological Science And Its Interdisciplinary Discourse
Authors: Miheyeva Natalia
Published: October 2013

After studying the theoretical sources related to the topic the author of research comes to the conclusion that the notion of risk as a systematic phenomenon was not paid sufficient attention in existing scientific literature. Problem: An insufficient state of knowledge of the phenomenon of risk in Latvian psychological science, taking into consideration its multifacetedness, which is confirmed by the researches both in Psychology and in other sciences. The researchers of risk hitherto have not come to agreement of opinion even in the sphere of the definition of the risk notion itself, which requires the theoretical cooperative analysis of existing concepts. The author pays particular attention to the factor of social instability in Latvia and in the world, which is the determinant for risk both in social environment and in behaviour of an individual. Aim: operationalization and systematization of the 'risk' notion, its theories and concepts, as well as of the notions related or interdisciplinary connected to 'risk' notion. Tasks: implementing the comparative theoretical study of the existing concepts of risk, tracing the dynamics of the 'risk' notion formation in Psychology, carrying out the analysis of the risk study results in the fields of scientific knowledge that are related or interdisciplinary connected to Psychology. Method: theoretical comparative analysis. Output: Both classical and modern researches on risk and correlating phenomena under the situation of social instability were analysed and systematized. Summary: Risk has a multifaceted and multi-determinant nature, which stipulates its study by many sciences and makes it possible to talk of its interdisciplinary discourse. In Psychology it has rather rich research tradition, which is represented both by classical and modern researches. The researchers of risk have not come to agreement on the definition of risk, and there are divergences in its interpretation. Scientists agree, that risk has a number of features (uncertainty, alternativity, situation of evaluation, etc.), as well as is determined by many factors (age, gender, social status, personal attitude etc.). It was that discovered that insufficient attention has been paid to the study of this phenomenon in Latvia. Risk has been studied in Social psychology, but the existing view on risk in that sphere seems to author to be not complete, pixelated, taking into consideration the systematization law within the interaction of the elements of social medium.
Comparison Of Arrival Models In The Context Of Urban Transport
Authors: Raço Endri , Leka Shpëtim
Published: October 2013

The process of modeling a random process requires a careful analysis and a correct interpretation of the behavior of the process. In different contexts, different statistical distributions may be eligible for the same model obtained in the study. In response to this situation created quite often in practice, we make use of statistical analysis methods to make possible comparison and decision making regarding the selection of the most appropriate model. In our study the usage of such methods is illustrated by comparing two of models commonly mentioned in literature when it comes to bus headway times modeling. Models under consideration are Gaussian model and Poisson model. To evaluate the performance of these models visual and analytical methods are used in this study. The simulation of these processes is made possible using the power of R language. Although both models have their practicability in a certain degree, tests showed that the Gaussian model fits best with the real model
Influence of PCR Reagents on DNA Polymerase Extension Rates Measured on Real-Time PCR Instruments
Authors: Montgomery Jesse L , Wittwer Carl T
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Radioactive DNA polymerase activity methods are cumbersome and do not provide initial extension rates. A simple extension rate assay would enable study of basic assumptions about PCR and define the limits of rapid PCR.

METHODS

A continuous assay that monitors DNA polymerase extension using noncovalent DNA dyes on common real-time PCR instruments was developed. Extension rates were measured in nucleotides per second per molecule of polymerase. To initiate the reaction, a nucleotide analog was heat activated at 95 °C for 5 min, the temperature decreased to 75 °C, and fluorescence monitored until substrate exhaustion in 30–90 min.

RESULTS

The assay was linear with time for over 40% of the reaction and for polymerase concentrations over a 100-fold range (1–100 pmol/L). Extension rates decreased continuously with increasing monovalent cation concentrations (lithium, sodium, potassium, cesium, and ammonium). Melting-temperature depressors had variable effects. DMSO increased rates up to 33%, whereas glycerol had little effect. Betaine, formamide, and 1,2-propanediol decreased rates with increasing concentrations. Four common noncovalent DNA dyes inhibited polymerase extension. Heat-activated nucleotide analogs were 92% activated after 5 min, and hot start DNA polymerases were 73%–90% activated after 20 min.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple DNA extension rate assays can be performed on real-time PCR instruments. Activity is decreased by monovalent cations, DNA dyes, and most melting temperature depressors. Rational inclusion of PCR components on the basis of their effects on polymerase extension is likely to be useful in PCR, particularly rapid-cycle or fast PCR.
Intuition and consilience: The creation of clinical and symptomatic knowledge in entertainment industries
Authors: Oh Ingyu
Published: October 2013

The recent tendency among scholars in the discussion of the creation of innovative knowledge emphasizes the importance of intuition over learned (or informed) decisions. This new development, however, fails to instruct us how to train decision makers to be intuitive. Furthermore, in their new catchphrase of ‘consilience’, many scholars and practitioners fail to teach us how to generate new knowledge through interdisciplinary communication. We are not even sure as to how we can establish communication among different disciplines to begin with. This article is an attempt to bridge our classical understanding of clinical and symptomatic knowledge in western philosophy with the new type of knowledge creation through consilience. I first explain the big picture of how both clinical and symptomatic knowledge is closely linked to consilience as pivotal elements of new knowledge creation. The big picture will then be applied to a small picture of the entertainment industry where consilience is used to create new box office hits like Hollywood and South Korean Hallyu cultural products.
Práctica reflexiva y profesiones de ayuda
Authors: Sicora Alessandro
Published: October 2013

Con la presente contribución se pretende abordar el tema de la práctica reflexiva en el ámbito del trabajo social. Las teorizaciones sobre la reflexividad, si bien numerosas y heterogéneas, pueden agruparse en torno a conceptos clave de «conocimiento» y «sociedad». Para pasar de la teoría de la reflexividad a la práctica de la reflexividad es necesario estructurar el propio análisis identificando objetivo, niveles y herramientas propias de un «trabajador social reflexivo» capaz de conectar, en un ciclo sin fin, experiencia, reflexión y acción. Es útil focalizar tal actividad en específicos eventos particularmente significativos, es decir en «eventos críticos», como por ejemplo los propios errores profesionales. Esta reflexión se puede llevar a cabo como momento de meditación con uno mismo, especialmente cuando es articulada a través de la utilización de «estructuras» reflexivas (consistentes en baterías de preguntas), pero aún más provechoso resulta ser el beneficio obtenido de una de las numerosas formas disponibles (analíticas o creativas) de escritura reflexiva. Existe además una dimensión colectiva de la reflexión que permite también prevenir situaciones de burnout y ampliar el propio «campo visual» en la práctica cotidiana.
Desigualdad y movimientos alternativos en el capitalismo actual: un contexto para el 15-M
Authors: Tortosa Blasco José María
Published: October 2013

El actual sistema mundial se basa en la desigualdad entre territorios y entre grupos sociales (clase, género, raza, cultura) y ha producido históricamente, en dichos grupos, descontentos con sus resultados: rebeldes, «indignados», «protesters» y, aunque no frecuentemente, revolucionarios. Las circunstancias contemporáneas de inseguridad económica, energética, alimentaria, medioambiental e incluso física dan una particular coloración a los movimientos alternativos aparecidos en dichas circunstancias a pesar de sus semejanzas con movimientos aparecidos en tiempos anteriores. En el texto se lleva a cabo una revisión de algunos movimientos recientes (piqueteros argentinos, forajidos ecuatorianos, islandeses, «primaveras árabes», revueltas en Grecia, estudiantes chilenos –y otros latinoamericanos–, «indignados» en Israel, alborotadores en Tottenham y «marchistas» del TIPNIS boliviano) para extraer las correspondientes lecciones de cara, sobre todo, al conjunto 15-M, «Occupy Wall Street», 15-O y sus intentos de mundialización.
Consumer Adoption of New Products: Independent versus Interdependent Self-Perspectives
Authors: Ma Zhenfeng , Yang Zhiyong , Mourali Mehdi
Published: October 2013

In five studies, the authors examine the impact of an independent (vs. interdependent) mindset on consumer adoption of new products. Study 1 demonstrates that consumers in a predominantly independent (vs. interdependent) culture are more willing to adopt really new products, whereas consumers in a predominantly interdependent (vs. independent) culture are more willing to adopt incrementally new products. Studies 2 and 3 conceptually replicate these findings using situationally activated mindsets and demonstrate that this effect is driven by the perceived fit between the product's newness level and the optimal level of distinctiveness consumers want. Finally, Studies 4a and 4b show that the presence of distinctiveness-dampening cues (i.e., popularity cues) and distinctiveness-enhancing cues (i.e., scarcity cues) can reverse the effect of self-perspective such that the independent self becomes less willing to adopt really new products and more willing to adopt incrementally new products than does the interdependent self. These findings offer practical implications for managing innovation adoption in both domestic and international marketplaces.
Diagnosis, prevention and treatment of accidental and perioperative hypothermia
Authors: Brandt Sebastian , Mühlsteff Jens , Imhoff Michael
Published: October 2013

Accidental hypothermia and its variant, perioperative hypothermia, is a rather common clinical phenomenon in patients. This is surprising because the negative effects on clinical outcomes are well described and effective patient-warming devices are available today. The aim of this paper is to describe the physiologic background of accidental and perioperative hypothermia, the clinical relevance and existing prophylaxis and treatment options. Patient warming techniques will be discussed in detail. Remaining technical and clinical challenges and the need for further research will be addressed. We will present existing guidelines and standards and analyse the impact of accidental and perioperative hypothermia on cost effectiveness.
On 3D DDFV Discretization of Gradient and Divergence Operators: Discrete Functional Analysis Tools and Applications to Degenerate Parabolic Problems
Authors: Andreianov Boris , Bendahmane Mostafa , Hubert Florence
Published: October 2013

We present a detailed survey of
discrete functional analysis tools (consistency results, Poincaré and Sobolev embedding inequalities, discrete W1,p compactness,
discrete compactness in space and in time) for the so-called
Discrete Duality Finite Volume (DDFV) schemes
in three space dimensions.
We concentrate mainly on the 3D CeVe-DDFV scheme presented
in [IMA J. Numer. Anal., 32 (2012), pp. 1574–1603].
Some of our results are new, such as a general time-compactness result based upon the idea
of Kruzhkov (1969); others generalize the ideas known for the 2D DDFV schemes or for traditional two-point-flux finite volume schemes.
We illustrate the use of these tools by studying convergence of discretizations of nonlinear elliptic-parabolic problems of Leray–Lions kind, and provide numerical results for this example.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of 2-(4,5-dihydro-5-(tetrazolo[1,5-a]quinoline-4-yl)-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-substituted phenols
Authors: Ashok Dongamanti , Rao Velagapuri Hanumantha , Sreenivas Peddolla
Published: October 2013

A series of pyrazolines 4a–h has been synthesized by Michael addition of chalcones 3a–h with hydrazine hydrate in the presence of sodium acetate under conventional heating or microwave irradiation. Structures of the newly synthesized pyrazolines 4a–h have been established on the basis of IR, 1H, 13C NMR and mass spectral data.
Synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial screening of s-triazines linked with piperazine or aniline scaffolds
Authors: Lakum Harshad P. , Desai Dhara V. , Chikhalia Kishor H.
Published: October 2013

Two series of s-triazines linked with piperazine or aniline scaffolds (4a–i and 5a–j) were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro biological efficacy against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae MTCC 109, Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 741, Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 96, Bacillus cereus MTCC 619) and fungi (Candida albicans MTCC 183 and Aspergillus niger MTCC 282) using a broth dilution technique. Compounds most active against certain bacteria and fungi are 4e, 4g, 4i, 5d, and 5i.
Models of Food and Eating in the United Kingdom
Authors: Murcott Anne
Published: October 2013

Since the end of WWII, there has been a catalogue of far-reaching changes in eating in the UK, many hailed as finally signaling almost a half century of long-awaited improvements, in variety and increased choice, in renewed attention to quality. At the same time, it is possible to identify longer established models of food and drink, including tea, fish and chips, and a ‘cooked dinner’. All echo the particular geography and history of the British Isles and illustrate that it is possible to detect and describe stable patterns of dishes, menus and mealtimes, models of UK eating.
Role of selenium and glutathione peroxidase on development, growth, and oxidative balance in rat offspring
Authors: Nogales Fátima , Ojeda M Luisa , Fenutría María , Murillo M Luisa , Carreras Olimpia
Published: October 2013

Selenium (Se), an essential trace metal, is important in both growth and reproduction and is the constituent of different selenoproteins. The glutathione peroxidase (GPx) family is the most studied as it prevents oxidative stress. Liver oxidation is considered as another mechanism involved in low birth weight. Therefore, in order to ascertain whether GPx is related to the effects of Se on growth during gestation and lactation, three groups of rat pups were used: control, Se deficient (SD), and Se supplemented (SS). Morphological parameters and reproductive indices were evaluated. Hepatic Se levels were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption while spectrophotometry was used for activity of antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress markers in liver and western blotting for expression of hepatic GPx1 and GPx4. The SD diet increased mortality at birth; decreased viability and survival indices; and stunted growth, length, and liver development in offspring, thus decreasing hepatic Se levels, GPx, glutathione reductase, and catalase activities, while increasing superoxide dismutase activity and protein oxidation. The SS diet counteracted all the above results. GPx1 expression was heavily regulated by Se dietary intake; however, although Se dietary deficiency reduced GPx4 expression, this decrease was not as pronounced. Therefore, it can be concluded that Se dietary intake is intimately related to growth, length, and directly regulating GPx activity primarily via GPx1 and secondly to GPx4, thus affecting liver oxidation and development. These results suggest that if risk of uterine growth retardation is suspected, or if a neonate with low birth weight presents with signs of liver oxidation, it may be beneficial to know about Se status.
Practice Variance, Prevalence, and Economic Burden of Premature Infants Diagnosed With GERD
Authors: Jadcherla Sudarshan R. , Slaughter Jonathan L. , Stenger Michael R. , Klebanoff Mark , Kelleher Kelly , Gardner William
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To determine the practice variance, prevalence, and economic burden of clinically diagnosed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in preterm infants.

Methods:

Applying a retrospective cohort study design, we analyzed data from 18 567 preterm infants of 22 to 36 weeks’ gestation and >400 g birth weight from the NICUs of 33 freestanding children’s hospitals in the United States. GERD prevalence, comorbidities, and demographic factors were examined for their association with average length of stay (LOS) and hospitalization cost.

Results:

Overall, 10.3% of infants received a diagnosis of GERD (95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.8–10.7). There was a 13-fold variation in GERD rates across hospitals (P < .001). GERD diagnosis was significantly (P < .05) associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and necrotizing enterocolitis, as well as congenital anomalies and decreased birth weight. GERD diagnosis was associated with $70 489 (95% CI: 62 184–78 794) additional costs per discharge and 29.9 additional days in LOS (95% CI: 27.3–32.5).

Conclusions:

One in 10 of these premature NICU infants were diagnosed with GERD, which is associated with substantially increased LOS and elevated costs. Better diagnostic and management strategies are needed to evaluate reflux-type symptoms in this vulnerable NICU population.
Predictive Value of Neonatal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Preterm Infants
Authors: Ortinau Cynthia M. , Inder Terrie E. , Smyser Christopher D.
Published: October 2013

Despite advances in neonatal and perinatal care, prematurely born infants remain at significant risk for brain injury and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Traditionally, cranial ultrasound has been used to identify cerebral abnormalities in this population. However, this technique has limitations in its ability to detect injury and identify infants at risk for subsequent neurodevelopmental disability. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides an improved mechanism for comprehensive assessment of cerebral development and characterization of injury. Growing expertise has demonstrated that MRI scans can be performed safely and routinely on premature infants at any institution. Recent investigations have shown that findings from conventional MRI sequences demonstrate strong associations with childhood outcomes in this population. In addition, advanced magnetic resonance techniques have been applied to provide additional insights into normative and aberrant cerebral development and enhance predictive capabilities. These findings demonstrate that MRI is a widely available tool well-suited for predicting the neurodevelopmental consequences of prematurity, supporting an expanded role for its use in the clinical care of this high-risk population.
Nonmedical Vaccine Exemptions and Pertussis in California, 2010
Authors: Atwell Jessica E. , Van Otterloo Josh , Zipprich Jennifer , Winter Kathleen , Harriman Kathleen , Salmon Daniel A. , Halsey Neal A. , Omer Saad B.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND:

In 2010, 9120 cases of pertussis were reported in California, more than any year since 1947. Although this resurgence has been widely attributed to waning immunity of the acellular vaccine, the role of vaccine refusal has not been explored in the published literature. Many factors likely contributed to the outbreak, including the cyclical nature of pertussis, improved diagnosis, and waning immunity; however, it is important to understand if clustering of unvaccinated individuals also played a role.

METHODS:

We analyzed nonmedical exemptions (NMEs) for children entering kindergarten from 2005 through 2010 and pertussis cases with onset in 2010 in California to determine if NMEs increased in that period, if children obtaining NMEs clustered spatially, if pertussis cases clustered spatially and temporally, and if there was statistically significant overlap between clusters of NMEs and cases.

RESULTS:

Kulldorff’s scan statistics identified 39 statistically significant clusters of high NME rates and 2 statistically significant clusters of pertussis cases in this time period. Census tracts within an exemptions cluster were 2.5 times more likely to be in a pertussis cluster (odds ratio = 2.47, 95% confidence interval: 2.22–2.75). More cases occurred within as compared with outside exemptions clusters (incident rate ratios = 1.20, 95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.30). The association remained significant after adjustment for demographic factors. NMEs clustered spatially and were associated with clusters of pertussis cases.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data suggest clustering of NMEs may have been 1 of several factors in the 2010 California pertussis resurgence.
International Reach of Tobacco Marketing Among Young Children
Authors: Borzekowski Dina L.G. , Cohen Joanna E.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND:

Prosmoking messages, delivered through marketing and the media, can reach very young children and influence attitudes and behaviors around smoking. This study examined the reach of tobacco marketing to 5 and 6 year olds in 6 low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS:

Researchers worked one-on-one with 5 and 6 year olds in Brazil, China, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Russia (N = 2423). The children were asked to match logos with pictures of products, including 8 logos for cigarette brands. Analyses examined, overall and by country, whether gender, age, location, household use of tobacco, and knowledge of media characters were associated with awareness of cigarette brand logos. Additional analyses considered the relationship between cigarette brand logo awareness and intentions to smoke.

RESULTS:

Overall, 68% of 5 and 6 year olds could identify at least 1 cigarette brand logo, ranging from 50% in Russia to 86% in China. Across countries, being slightly older and having someone in the household who used tobacco, were significantly associated with greater odds of being able to identify at least 1 cigarette brand logo.

CONCLUSIONS:

The majority of young children from low- and middle-income countries are familiar with cigarette brands. This study’s findings suggest that more effective measures are needed to restrict the reach of tobacco marketing.
National Trends in Psychotropic Medication Use in Young Children: 1994–2009
Authors: Chirdkiatgumchai Vilawan , Xiao Hong , Fredstrom Bridget K. , Adams Ryan E. , Epstein Jeff N. , Shah Samir S. , Brinkman William B. , Kahn Robert S. , Froehlich Tanya E.
Published: October 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To examine recent national trends in psychotropic use for very young children at US outpatient medical visits.

METHODS:

Data for 2- to 5-year-old children (N = 43 598) from the 1994–2009 National Ambulatory and National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Surveys were used to estimate the weighted percentage of visits with psychotropic prescriptions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with psychotropic use. Time effects were examined in 4-year blocks (1994–1997, 1998–2001, 2002–2005, and 2006–2009).

RESULTS:

Psychotropic prescription rates were 0.98% from 1994–1997, 0.83% from 1998–2001, 1.45% from 2002–2005, and 1.00% from 2006–2009. The likelihood of preschool psychotropic use was highest in 2002–2005 (1994–1997 adjusted odds ratio [AOR] versus 2002–2005: 0.67; 1998–2001 AOR versus 2002–2005: 0.63; 2006–2009 AOR versus 2002–2005: 0.64), then diminished such that the 2006–2009 probability of use did not differ from 1994–1997 or from 1998–2001. Boys (AOR versus girls: 1.64), white children (AOR versus other race: 1.42), older children (AOR for 4 to 5 vs 2 to 3 year olds: 3.87), and those lacking private insurance (AOR versus privately insured: 2.38) were more likely than children from other groups to receive psychotropic prescriptions.

CONCLUSIONS:

Psychotropic prescription was notable for peak usage in 2002–2005 and sociodemographic disparities in use. Further study is needed to discern why psychotropic use in very young children stabilized in 2006–2009, as well as reasons for increased use in boys, white children, and those lacking private health insurance.
Childhood Interstitial Lung Diseases: An 18-year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Soares Jennifer J. , Deutsch Gail H. , Moore Paul E. , Fazili Mohammad F. , Austin Eric D. , Brown Rebekah F. , Sokolow Andrew G. , Hilmes Melissa A. , Young Lisa R.
Published: October 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Childhood interstitial lung diseases (ILD) occur in a variety of clinical contexts. Advances in the understanding of disease pathogenesis and use of standardized terminology have facilitated increased case ascertainment. However, as all studies have been performed at specialized referral centers, the applicability of these findings to general pulmonary practice has been uncertain. The objective of this study was to determine the historical occurrence of childhood ILD to provide information reflecting general pediatric pulmonary practice patterns.

METHODS:

Childhood ILD cases seen at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital from 1994 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed and classified according to the current pediatric diffuse lung disease histopathologic classification system.

RESULTS:

A total of 93 cases were identified, of which 91.4% were classifiable. A total of 68.8% (64/93) of subjects underwent lung biopsy in their evaluations. The largest classification categories were disorders related to systemic disease processes (24.7%), disorders of the immunocompromised host (24.7%), and disorders more prevalent in infancy (22.6%). Eight cases of neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI) were identified, including 5 that were previously unrecognized before this review.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings demonstrate the general scope of childhood ILD and that these cases present within a variety of pediatric subspecialties. Retrospective review was valuable in recognizing more recently described forms of childhood ILD. As a significant portion of cases were classifiable based on clinical, genetic, and/or radiographic criteria, we urge greater consideration to noninvasive diagnostic approaches and suggest modification to the current childhood ILD classification scheme to accommodate the increasing number of cases diagnosed without lung biopsy.
Effects of local nitric oxide release on human mesenchymal stem cell attachment and proliferation on gelatin hydrogel surface
Authors: Xing Qi , Yates Keegan , Bailey Avery , Vogt Caleb , He Weilue , Frost Megan C. , Zhao Feng
Published: October 2013

Nitric oxide plays important roles in cardiovascular homeostasis, immune responses and wound repair. Therefore, polymers that release nitric oxide locally at the surface exhibit improved biocompatibility for biomedical implants through reducing neointimal hyperplasia and thrombosis caused by blood vessel wall damage. The objective of this article was to fabricate a nitric oxide–releasing gelatin hydrogel that can continuously generate nitric oxide at a physiologically relevant level and inhibit cell attachment and proliferation. The nitric oxide donor, S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), was successfully conjugated to the gelatin hydrogel, which showed a rapid nitric oxide release in the first 2 h and then a slower but sustained release in the next 70-h period. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), as a model cell line with wide biomedical applications, were used to examine the cell attachment and proliferation of the nitric oxide–releasing gelatin hydrogel. Compared with the control gelatin, the nitric oxide–releasing gelatin hydrogel demonstrated a 0·35 times lower hMSCs attachment at 6 h and a 3·15 times lower hMSCs proliferation after 72-h incubation. Moreover, hMSCs on nitric oxide–releasing gelatin exhibited a rounder cell shape and covered less cellular area than their counterparts on the control gelatin hydrogel. This gelatin hydrogel with local nitric oxide release at physiological level provides a promising therapeutic approach in enhancing the performance of biomedical implants.