bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of non-clinical attributes in paramedicine using multiple mini-interviews
Authors: Tavares Walter , Mausz Justin
Published: September 2013

Background

Non-clinical attributes are increasingly emphasised as an important factor in paramedic practice. However, the assessment of these attributes often lacks the evidence base to support it. Exploring the relationship between non-clinical attributes and clinical skills is also of theoretical and practical importance.

Objective

To first seek evidence of reliability and validity for the assessment of non-clinical attributes using the multiple mini-interview (MMI) in paramedic contexts and second, to explore the association between non-clinical attributes and clinical skills in paramedicine.

Methods

Entry to practice level paramedic candidates completed a 10-station MMI to assess non-clinical attributes on day 1 and a 10-station simulation-based assessment (SBA) of clinical skills on day 2. Both were assessed using different global rating scales. Our primary outcomes included MMI inter-station reliability (calculated using generalisability theory) and Pearson's correlation between non-clinical attributes and clinically focused skills.

Results

30 trainees completed the MMI and 26 of the 30 completed the SBA. Inter-station reliability for the MMI reached 0.77. Pearson's correlations (disattenuated correlations in parentheses) between the overall MMI score and mean SBA global rating scores reached r=0.31 (r=0.48) and ranged by dimension from r=−0.11 (−0.17) (procedural skills) to r=0.54(r=0.83) (communication).

Conclusions

The MMI demonstrated evidence of reliability and validity for the assessment of non-clinical attributes in paramedic contexts. Non-clinical attributes and paramedic clinical skills are likely distinct but related constructs, each contributing to the construct of paramedic practice. Programmes of assessment should include both to ensure the construct of paramedic practice is adequately represented.
Systems proteomics of cardiac chromatin identifies nucleolin as a regulator of growth and cellular plasticity in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Monte Emma , Mouillesseaux Kevin , Chen Haodong , Kimball Todd , Ren Shuxun , Wang Yibin , Chen Jau-Nian , Vondriska Thomas M. , Franklin Sarah
Published: September 2013

Myocyte hypertrophy antecedent to heart failure involves changes in global gene expression, although the preceding mechanisms to coordinate DNA accessibility on a genomic scale are unknown. Chromatin-associated proteins alter chromatin structure by changing their association with DNA, thereby altering the gene expression profile. Little is known about the global changes in chromatin subproteomes that accompany heart failure, and the mechanisms by which these proteins alter chromatin structure. The present study tests the fundamental hypothesis that cardiac growth and plasticity in the setting of disease recapitulates conserved developmental chromatin remodeling events. We used quantitative proteomics to identify chromatin-associated proteins extracted via detergent and to quantify changes in their abundance during disease. Our study identified 321 proteins in this subproteome, demonstrating it to have modest conservation (37%) with that revealed using strong acid. Of these proteins, 176 exhibited altered expression during cardiac hypertrophy and failure; we conducted extensive functional characterization of one of these proteins, Nucleolin. Morpholino-based knockdown of nucleolin nearly abolished protein expression but surprisingly had little impact on gross morphological development. However, hearts of fish lacking Nucleolin displayed severe developmental impairment, abnormal chamber patterning and functional deficits, ostensibly due to defects in cardiac looping and myocyte differentiation. The mechanisms underlying these defects involve perturbed bone morphogenetic protein 4 expression, decreased rRNA transcription, and a shift to more heterochromatic chromatin. This study reports the quantitative analysis of a new chromatin subproteome in the normal and diseased mouse heart. Validation studies in the complementary model system of zebrafish examine the role of Nucleolin to orchestrate genomic reprogramming events shared between development and disease.
Decreased Kv1.5 expression in intrauterine growth retardation rats with exaggerated pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Lv Ying , Tang Li-Li , Wei Jia-Kai , Xu Xue-Feng , Gu Weizhong , Fu Lin-Chen , Zhang Li-Yan , Du Li-Zhong
Published: September 2013

Chronic hypoxia pulmonary hypertension (CH-PHT) in adulthood is likely to be of fetal origin following intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR). Oxygen (O2)-sensitive voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv channels) in resistance pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) play an important role in scaling pulmonary artery (PA) pressure. Expression and functional changes of Kv channels are determined, in part, by embryonic development. We hypothesized that O2-sensitive Kv channels play an important role in exaggerated CH-PHT following IUGR. We established a rat model of IUGR by restricting maternal food during the entire pregnancy and exposed IUGR rats and their age-matched controls aged 12 wk to hypoxia for 2 wk. We found that hypoxia exposure significantly induced increased PA pressure and thicker smooth muscle layer in the IUGR group relative to controls. We compared the constriction of the resistance PA to inhibitors of K+channels, 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), tetraethylammonium, and BaCl2. Despite the thickness of the smooth muscle layer, the constriction to 4-AP was significantly reduced in the IUGR group exposed to hypoxia. Consistent with these changes in pulmonary vascular reactivity, 2 wk of hypoxia induced weaker 4-AP-sensitive Kv currents in a single IUGR PASMC. Moreover, after 2 wk of hypoxia, Kv1.5 expression in resistance PAs decreased significantly in the IUGR group. Overexpression of Kv1.5 in cultured PASMCs could offset hypoxia-induced cell proliferation and hypoxia-inhibited Kv currents in the IUGR group. These results suggest that the inhibited expression of Kv1.5 in PASMCs contribute to the development of exaggerated CH-PHT in IUGR rats during adulthood.
Magnetization and Specific Absorption Rate Studies of Ball-Milled Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Biomedicine
Authors: Burnham P. , Dollahon N. , Li C. H. , Viescas A. J. , Papaefthymiou G. C.
Published: September 2013

Comparative studies are presented of iron oxide nanoparticles in the 7–15 nm average diameter range ball milled in hexane in the presence of oleic acid. Transmission electron microscopy identified spherical particles of decreasing size as milling time and/or surfactant concentration increased. Micromagnetic characterization via Mössbauer spectroscopy at room temperature yielded broadened magnetic spectroscopic signatures, while macromagnetic characterization via vibrating sample magnetometry of 7-8 nm diameter particles showed largely superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature and hysteretic at 2 K. Zero-field and field-cooled magnetization curves exhibited a broad maximum at ~215 K indicating the presence of strong interparticle magnetic interactions. The specific absorption rates of ferrofluids based on these nanoparticle preparations were measured in order to test their efficacies as hyperthermia agents.
Coordinated Control for a Group of Interconnected Pairwise Subsystems
Authors: Ma Chen , Chen Xue-Bo
Published: September 2013

The implementation of pairwise decomposition is discussed on an interconnected system with uncertainties. Under the concept of system inclusion, two systems with the same expanded system achieved by the same expand transformation are considered as approximations. It is proven that a coordinated controller can be found to stabilize both the two systems. This controller is contracted from the coordinated controller of expanded system, with each pairwise subsystem having information structure constraint taken into consideration. At last, this controller design process is applied on a four-area power system treated as a group of subsystems with information structure constraints.
Sternal Aspiration of Bone Marrow in Dogs: A Practical Approach for Canine Leishmaniasis Diagnosis and Monitoring
Authors: Paparcone Rosa , Fiorentino Eleonora , Cappiello Silvia , Gizzarelli Manuela , Gradoni Luigi , Oliva Gaetano , Foglia Manzillo Valentina
Published: September 2013

Bone-marrow aspirate material is commonly considered as one of the most sensitive tissues for a reliable diagnosis of leishmaniasis. The procedure herein described may permit less experienced veterinarians to be familiar with a quick and safe assessment method for leishmaniasis diagnosis in their patients. Animals are positioned in right lateral recumbency, and the area corresponding to the second, third, or fourth sternebra is identified and aseptically prepared. A 18-gauge needle connected to a 10 mL syringe is driven through the skin, up to the bone wall, and firmly pushed forward while rotating. Entry into the sternebra’s cavity is clearly perceived by the fall of resistance offered by the cortex. Some 2,500 sternal bone-marrow samplings were safely and efficiently performed on 887 dogs of different breeds and aging from 6 months to 14 years, during eight years of clinical activity for routine diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis in pets or for the efficacy evaluation of anti-Leishmania immunobiologicals in dogs naturally exposed to parasite transmission. Most of the samples (1716) were from 387 dogs enrolled for anti-Leishmania vaccine studies. The safety of the method was particularly assessed on these dogs that as per study protocol were submitted to repeated bone-marrow aspirations (2–4 per year) in follow-up examinations.
Modulation of Murine Macrophage TLR7/8-Mediated Cytokine Expression by Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Medium
Authors: Asami Takahiro , Ishii Makoto , Fujii Hideki , Namkoong Ho , Tasaka Sadatomo , Matsushita Kenichi , Ishii Ken , Yagi Kazuma , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Funatsu Yohei , Hasegawa Naoki , Betsuyaku Tomoko
Published: September 2013

Increasing evidence suggests that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play anti-inflammatory roles during innate immune responses. However, little is known about the effect of MSCs or their secretions on the ligand response of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 7 and TLR8, receptors that recognize viral single-stranded RNA (ssRNA). Macrophages play a critical role in the innate immune response to ssRNA virus infection; therefore, we investigated the effect of MSC-conditioned medium on cytokine expression in macrophages following stimulation with TLR7/8 ligands. After stimulation with TLR7/8 ligand, bone marrow-derived macrophages cultured with MSCs or in MSC-conditioned medium expressed lower levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)αand interleukin (IL) 6 and higher levels of IL-10 compared to macrophages cultured without MSCs or in control medium, respectively. The modulations of cytokine expression were associated with prostaglandin E2(PGE2) secreted by the MSCs. PGE2enhanced extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) signaling and suppressed nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling. Enhanced ERK signaling contributed to enhanced IL-10 production, and suppression of NF-κB signaling contributed to the low production of TNF-α. Collectively, these results indicate that MSCs and MSC-conditioned medium modulate the cytokine expression profile in macrophages following TLR7/8-mediated stimulation, which suggests that MSCs play an immunomodulatory role during ssRNA virus infection.
Vibration Suppression of an Axially Moving String with Transverse Wind Loadings by a Nonlinear Energy Sink
Authors: Zhang Ye-Wei , Zang Jian , Yang Tian-Zhi , Fang Bo , Wen Xin
Published: September 2013

Nonlinear targeted energy transfer (TET) is applied to suppress the excessive vibration of an axially moving string with transverse wind loads. The coupling dynamic equations used are modeled by a nonlinear energy sink (NES) attached to the string to absorb vibrational energy. By a two-term Galerkin procedure, the equations are discretized, and the effects of vibration suppression by numerical methods are demonstrated. Results show that the NES can effectively suppress the vibration of the axially moving string with transverse wind loadings, thereby protecting the string from excessive movement.
Numerical Simulation and Investigation of System Parameters of Sonochemical Process
Authors: Chakma Sankar , Moholkar Vijayanand S.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents the effects of various parameters that significantly affect the cavitation. In this study, three types of liquid mediums with different physicochemical properties were considered as the cavitation medium. The effects of various operating parameters such as temperature, pressure, initial bubble radius, dissolved gas content and so forth, were investigated in detail. The simulation results of cavitation bubble dynamics model showed a very interesting link among these parameters for production of oxidizing species. The formation of •OH radical and H2O2 is considered as the results of main effects of sonochemical process. Simulation results of radial motion of cavitation bubble dynamics revealed that bubble with small initial radius gives higher sonochemical effects. This is due to the bubble with small radius can undergo many acoustic cycles before reaching its critical radius when it collapses and produces higher temperature and pressure inside the bubble. On the other hand, due to the low surface tension and high vapor pressure, organic solvents are not suitable for sonochemical reactions.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Human MicroRNA Stability
Authors: Li Yang , Li Zhixin , Zhou Shixin , Wen Jinhua , Geng Bin , Yang Jichun , Cui Qinghua
Published: September 2013

Increasing studies have shown that microRNA (miRNA) stability plays important roles in physiology. However, the global picture of miRNA stability remains largely unknown. Here, we had analyzed genome-wide miRNA stability across 10 diverse cell types using miRNA arrays. We found that miRNA stability shows high dynamics and diversity both within individual cells and across cell types. Strikingly, we observed a negative correlation between miRNA stability and miRNA expression level, which is different from current findings on other biological molecules such as proteins and mRNAs that show positive and not negative correlations between stability and expression level. This finding indicates that miRNA has a distinct action mode, which we called “rapid production, rapid turnover; slow production, slow turnover.” This mode further suggests that high expression miRNAs normally degrade fast and may endow the cell with special properties that facilitate cellular status-transition. Moreover, we revealed that the stability of miRNAs is affected by cohorts of factors that include miRNA targets, transcription factors, nucleotide content, evolution, associated disease, and environmental factors. Together, our results provided an extensive description of the global landscape, dynamics, and distinct mode of human miRNA stability, which provide help in investigating their functions in physiology and pathophysiology.
Epidermoid Cyst Arising in the Submandibular Region
Authors: Kudoh Masanori , Harada Hiroyuki , Omura Ken , Ishii Yoshimasa
Published: September 2013

Dermoid and epidermoid cysts in the oral cavity frequently develop in the midline or sublingual region of the floor of the mouth. Here, we report a rare case of an epidermoid cyst in the submandibular region. The patient was a 69-year-old man with a chief complaint of a mass in the right submandibular region. A mobile, elastic, relatively soft mass without tenderness was palpable in this region. The skin covering the mass was normal. MRI showed a cystic lesion measuring 3.5 × 3.0 cm under the platysma in the right submandibular region. Cystectomy was performed under general anesthesia. There was no adhesion to surrounding tissue and the right submandibular gland was preserved. The surgical specimen was cystic and contained soybean cord-like materials. Histopathologically, the cyst wall was lined by stratified squamous epithelium with no skin appendage, suggesting an epidermoid cyst. The postoperative course was uneventful and without recurrence after 28 months.
The Hermitian -Conjugate Generalized Procrustes Problem
Authors: Chang Hai-Xia , Duan Xue-Feng , Wang Qing-Wen
Published: September 2013

We consider the Hermitian -conjugate generalized Procrustes problem to find Hermitian -conjugate matrix such that is minimum, where , , , and (, ) are given complex matrices, and and are positive integers. The expression of the solution to Hermitian -conjugate generalized Procrustes problem is derived. And the optimal approximation solution in the solution set for Hermitian -conjugate generalized Procrustes problem to a given matrix is also obtained. Furthermore, we establish necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence and the formula for Hermitian -conjugate solution to the linear system of complex matrix equations , , ( and are positive integers). The representation of the corresponding optimal approximation problem is presented. Finally, an algorithm for solving two problems above is proposed, and the numerical examples show its feasibility.
P.R.L. Platelet Rich Lipotransfert: Our Experience and Current State of Art in the Combined Use of Fat and PRP
Authors: Cervelli V. , Bocchini I. , Di Pasquali C. , De Angelis B. , Cervelli G. , Curcio C. B. , Orlandi A. , Scioli M. G. , Tati E. , Delogu P. , Gentile Pietro
Published: September 2013

The authors report their experience about the use of P.R.L. PLATELET RICH LIPOTRANSFERT method (platelet rich plasma mixed fat grafting) in 223 patients affected by soft tissue defects (ulcers, Romberg syndrome, Hemifacial atrophy, loss of substance, and signs of aging). This paper introduces the reader to PRP therapy and reviews the current literature on this emerging treatment modality, showing at the current clinical use of PRP in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with description of innovative methods and future prospects. This technique provides a promising alternative to surgery by promoting safe and natural healing. Here recent studies concerning the use of PRP in the treatment of chronic ulcers and soft tissue defect are reviewed.
Stationary Points—I: One-Dimensional p-Fuzzy Dynamical Systems
Authors: Silva Joao de Deus M. , Leite Jefferson , Bassanezi Rodney C. , Cecconello Moiseis S.
Published: September 2013

p-Fuzzy dynamical systems are variational systems whose dynamic is obtained by means of a Mamdani type fuzzy rule-based system. In this paper, we will show the 1-dimensional p-fuzzy dynamical systems and will present theorems that establish conditions of existence and uniqueness of stationary points. Besides the obtained analytical results, we will present examples that illustrate and confirm the obtained mathematical results.
The Functional State of Hormone-Sensitive Adenylyl Cyclase Signaling System in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Shpakov Alexander O. , Derkach Kira V.
Published: September 2013

Diabetes mellitus (DM) induces a large number of diseases of the nervous, cardiovascular, and some other systems of the organism. One of the main causes of the diseases is the changes in the functional activity of hormonal signaling systems which lead to the alterations and abnormalities of the cellular processes and contribute to triggering and developing many DM complications. The key role in the control of physiological and biochemical processes belongs to the adenylyl cyclase (AC) signaling system, sensitive to biogenic amines and polypeptide hormones. The review is devoted to the changes in the GPCR-G protein-AC system in the brain, heart, skeletal muscles, liver, and the adipose tissue in experimental and human DM of the types 1 and 2 and also to the role of the changes in AC signaling in the pathogenesis and etiology of DM and its complications. It is shown that the changes of the functional state of hormone-sensitive AC system are dependent to a large extent on the type and duration of DM and in experimental DM on the model of the disease. The degree of alterations and abnormalities of AC signaling pathways correlates very well with the severity of DM and its complications.
A Clinical Report of Nonsyndromic Concomitant Hypo-Hyperdontia
Authors: Gupta Siddarth , Popat Hashmat
Published: September 2013

Although hypodontia and supernumerary teeth are often considered as mutually exclusive conditions, this case report presents an unusual case of hypodontia and a supernumerary tooth occurring simultaneously. An adolescent male was referred to the local hospital department regarding upper arch crowding. Plain film radiographs confirmed the congenital absence of both lower lateral incisors in addition to an unerupted conical supernumerary tooth in the maxillary midline. This condition has been called hypo-hyperdontia and in this paper, we discuss the clinical findings and treatment planning considerations in relation to the limited number of previously reported cases. The case report raises awareness of concomitant hypo-hyperdontia and serves to highlight that concomitant anomalies should be excluded when hypodontia or supernumerary teeth are diagnosed.
Regional Climate Effects of Conversion from Grassland to Forestland in Southeastern China
Authors: Yu Rui , Wang Xinsheng , Yan Zhe , Yan Haiming , Jiang Qunou
Published: September 2013

The land-use and land-cover change (LUCC) is the synthetic result of natural processes and human activities; it largely depends on the surface vegetation conditions, and the mutual conversion among land cover types can accelerate or alleviate the regional and global climate changes. Aiming at analyzing the regional climatic effects of the conversion from grassland to forestland, especially in the long term perspective, we carried out the comparison simulation using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model in Fujian province, results indicated that this conversion had a significant influence on the regional climate; the annual average temperature decreased by 0.11°C and the annual average precipitation increased by 46 mm after 11.2% of the grassland was converted into the forestland in the study area from 2000 to 2008. In the future (form 2010 to 2050), the conversion from grassland to forestland is significant under two representative concentration pathways (RCPs) (RCP6 and RCP8.5); the spatial pattern of this conversion under the two scenarios is simulated by dynamic of land system (DLS); then, the regional climate effects of the conversion are simulated using WRF model.
Rheological Properties and Reverse Micelles Conditions of PEO-PPO-PEO Pluronic F68: Effects of Temperature and Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Ben Henda Mouna , Ghaouar Naoufel , Gharbi Abdelhafidh
Published: September 2013

The rheological properties of Pluronic F68 were dissolved in various water/organic liquid mixtures over a wide range of temperatures, all at a concentration of 20 mg/mL. We have considered the following binary mixtures: Pluronic F68/water, F68/p-xylene, and F68/phenol. Various conformational transitions were detected and interpreted. We have also shown that these mixtures retain a Newtonian behavior independently of temperature and conformational changes. For ternary F68/p-xylene/water, F68/phenol/water, and F68/water/phenol mixtures, the behaviour of the solution is intimately related to the temperature and the amount of water and organic solvent added.
Photorefractive Keratectomy with Adjunctive Mitomycin C for Residual Error after Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis Using the Pulzar 213 nm Solid-State Laser: Early Results
Authors: Ng-Darjuan Maya Fe , Evangelista Raymond P. , Agahan Archimedes Lee D.
Published: September 2013

Purpose. To evaluate the accuracy, efficacy, stability, and safety of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) enhancement using the Pulzar 213 nm solid-state laser (SSL) with adjunctive Mitomycin C in eyes previously treated with laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with residual error of refraction. Methods. This is a prospective noncomparative case series of 16 eyes of 12 patients who underwent PRK for residual refractive error after primary LASIK. Mitomycin C 0.02% was used after the PRK to prevent haze formation. Outcomes measured were pre- and postoperative manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), uncorrected (UDVA) and best-corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and slit lamp evidence of corneal complications. Results. The mean UDVA improved from 20/70 preoperatively to 20/30 postoperatively. The average gain in lines for the UDVA was 2.38. After six months of followup, the postoperative MRSE within 0.50 D in 56% (9) of eyes and 94% (15) eyes were within 1.0 diopters of the intended correction. No eyes developed haze all throughout the study. Conclusion. PRK enhancement with adjunctive use of Mitomycin C for the correction of residual error of refraction after LASIK using the Pulzar 213 nm solid-state laser is an accurate, effective, and safe procedure.
A Review on the Management of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wood Alexander MacDonald , Brock Timothy M. , Heil Kieran , Holmes Rachel , Weusten Axel
Published: September 2013

Arthritis is the most common chronic condition affecting patients over the age of 70. The prevalence of osteoarthritis increases with age, and with an aging population, the effect of this disease will represent an ever-increasing burden on health care. The knee is the most common joint affected in osteoarthritis, with up to 41% of limb arthritis being located in the knee, compared to 30% in hands and 19% in hips. We review the current concepts with regard to the disease process and risk factors for developing hip and knee osteoarthritis. We then explore the nonsurgical management of osteoarthritis as well as the operative management of hip and knee arthritis. We discuss the indications for surgical treatment of hip and knee arthritis, looking in particular at the controversies affecting young and obese patients in both hip and knee replacements. Patient and implant related outcomes along with survivorships are addressed as well as the experiences and controversies described in national joint registries.
Multiplex Cytokine Concentration Measurement: How Much Do the Medium and Handling Matter?
Authors: Parkitny Luke , McAuley James H. , Kelly Patrick J. , Di Pietro Flavia , Cameron Barbara , Moseley G. Lorimer
Published: September 2013

Cytokine concentrations are thought to be affected by methods of sampling and processing and by storage conditions. In this study we compared 17 cytokine concentrations obtained from plasma and serum at baseline and after a controlled thaw condition. We found that absolute agreement was poor between concentrations of cytokines in plasma and serum, except for MIP1β. A thaw condition significantly changed the concentrations of most cytokines, but serum appeared less affected by this than plasma was. Closer examination using Bland-Altman analyses revealed that for each comparison, agreement was moderately good for many cytokine concentrations. This is important because measures of agreement must be interpreted based on the required precision, which may differ between clinical and research demands. We also identified that for some cytokines, the relationship between serum and plasma is affected by concentration, thus advocating for the use of appropriate methods when performing such comparisons in studies such as systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Free Tensor Fascia Lata Flap and Synthetic Mesh Reconstruction for Full-Thickness Chest Wall Defect
Authors: Ono Jumpei , Takeda Akira , Akimoto Minekatsu , Iyoda Akira , Matsui Yoshio , Satoh Yukitoshi , Uchinuma Eiju
Published: September 2013

A large full-thickness chest wall defect over 10 cm in diameter requires skeletal reconstruction and soft tissue coverage. Use of various flaps for soft tissue coverage was previously reported, but en bloc resection in each case affects these flap pedicles and sizes. We present a case of a 74-year-old man with a soft tissue tumor involving the left lateral chest wall. We performed an en block resection and skeletal reconstruction using a mesh, free tensor fascia lata (TFL) flap for soft tissue coverage. This procedure could be performed in one position. A fixed fascia lata of the flap was also useful for tight reconstruction with the mesh. We suggest that free TFL and/or anterior lateral thigh flap is a useful technique to reconstruct anterior to posterior lateral chest wall defects.
Separation and Identification of Furocoumarin in Fruits of Heracleum candicans DC. by HPTLC
Authors: Rawat A. K. S. , Singh A. P. , Singh D. P. , Pandey M. M. , Govindarajan R. , Srivastava Sharad
Published: September 2013

Heracleum candicans Wall. ex DC. (Apiaceae) is widely used in Indian system of medicines as an aphrodisiac, nerve tonic and also in the treatment of skin diseases with reports of being rich in furocoumarins which are extensively used in pharmaceutical industry for their photosensitizing activity on human skin. A simple high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of psoralen (1) and heraclenol (2) in the fruits of H. candicans. The analytes were separated on silica gel F254 plates with toluene : diethy lether : acetic acid (6 : 4 : 1) and scanned densitometrically at 350 nm. The method was validated in terms of precision, repeatability, and accuracy. The linear range for psoralen and heraclenol was found to be 1–5 μg spot−1 and 1–4 μg spot−1 with correlation coefficient of 0.973 and 0.964, respectively. The two compounds were quantified in fruits of H. candicans and were found to be present in the range of 0.021–0.036% and 0.029–0.043% w/w. The method was found to be very simple, accurate, precise, and economical and can be used for routine quality control.
The Fission-Based  99Mo Production Process ROMOL-99 and Its Application to PINSTECH Islamabad
Authors: Muenze Rudolf , Beyer Gerd Juergen , Ross Richard , Wagner Gerhard , Novotny Dieter , Franke Erik , Jehangir Mustansar , Pervez Shahid , Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: September 2013

An innovative process for fission based99Mo production has been developed under Isotope Technologies Dresden (ITD) GmbH (former Hans Wälischmiller GmbH (HWM), Branch Office Dresden), and its functionality has been tested and proved at the Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH), Islamabad. Targets made from uranium aluminum alloy clad with aluminum were irradiated in the core of Pakistan Research Reactor-1 (PARR-1). In the mean time more than 50 batches of fission molybdenum-99 (99Mo) have been produced meeting the international purity/pharmacopoeia specifications using this ROMOL-99 process. The process is based on alkaline dissolution of the neutron irradiated targets in presence of NaNO3, chemically extracting the99Mo from various fission products and purifying the product by column chromatography. This ROMOL-99 process will be described in some detail.
N-TerminalPlasmodium vivaxMerozoite Surface Protein-1, a Potential Subunit for Malaria Vivax Vaccine
Authors: Versiani Fernanda G. , Almeida Maria E. , Mariuba Luis A. , Orlandi Patricia P. , Nogueira Paulo A.
Published: September 2013

The human malaria is widely distributed in the Middle East, Asia, the western Pacific, and Central and South America.Plasmodium vivaxstarted to have the attention of many researchers since it is causing diseases to millions of people and several reports of severe malaria cases have been noticed in the last few years. The lack ofin vitrocultures forP. vivaxrepresents a major delay in developing a functional malaria vaccine. One of the major candidates to antimalarial vaccine is the merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP1), which is expressed abundantly on the merozoite surface and capable of activating the host protective immunity. Studies have shown that MSP-1 possesses highly immunogenic fragments, capable of generating immune response and protection in natural infection in endemic regions. This paper shows humoral immune response to different proteins of PvMSP1 and the statement of N-terminal to be added to the list of potential candidates for malaria vivax vaccine.
JMJD2B Promotes Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition by Cooperating with β-Catenin and Enhances Gastric Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Zhao Li , Li Wenjuan , Zang Wen , Liu Zhifang , Xu Xia , Yu Han , Yang Qing , Jia Jihui
Published: September 2013

Purpose: This study investigated the role of histone demethylase Jumonji domain–containing protein 2B (JMJD2B) in promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and underlying molecular mechanisms in the progression of gastric cancer.

Experimental Design: The induction of EMT by JMJD2B in gastric cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms were examined by a series of assays. In vivo and in vitro assays were performed to clarify invasive potential of JMJD2B in gastric cancer cells. The expression dynamics of JMJD2B were detected using immunohistochemistry in 101 cases of primary gastric cancer tissues.

Results: Inhibition of JMJD2B by specific siRNA suppresses EMT of gastric cancer cells, whereas ectopic expression of JMJD2B induces EMT. Importantly, JMJD2B is physically associated with β-catenin and enhances its nuclear localization and transcriptional activity. JMJD2B, together with β-catenin, binds to the promoter of the β-catenin target gene vimentin to increase its transcription by inducing H3K9 demethylation locally. JMJD2B inhibition attenuates migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells in vitro and metastasis in vivo. The expression of JMJD2B was positively correlated with tumor size (P = 0.017), differentiation status (P = 0.002), tumor invasion (P = 0.045), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.000), distant metastasis (P = 0.024), and tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stage (P = 0.002) in patients with gastric cancer.

Conclusions: The data reveal a novel function of JMJD2B in promoting EMT and gastric cancer invasion and metastasis, implicating JMJD2B as a potential target for reversing EMT and intervention of the progression of gastric cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 19(23); 6419–29. ©2013 AACR.
Phase I Study of Vismodegib in Children with Recurrent or Refractory Medulloblastoma: A Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium Study
Authors: Gajjar Amar , Stewart Clinton F. , Ellison David W. , Kaste Sue , Kun Larry E. , Packer Roger J. , Goldman Stewart , Chintagumpala Murali , Wallace Dana , Takebe Naoko , Boyett James M. , Gilbertson Richard J. , Curran Tom
Published: September 2013

Purpose: To investigate the safety, dose-limiting toxicities, and pharmacokinetics of the smoothened inhibitor vismodegib in children with refractory or relapsed medulloblastoma.

Experimental design: Initially, vismodegib was administered daily at 85 mg/m2 and escalated to 170 mg/m2. The study was then revised to investigate a flat-dosing schedule of 150 mg for patients with small body surface area (BSA, 0.67–1.32 m2) or 300 mg for those who were larger (BSA, 1.33–2.20 m2). Pharmacokinetics were performed during the first course of therapy, and the right knees of all patients were imaged to monitor bone toxicity. Immunohistochemical analysis was done to identify patients with Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)-subtype medulloblastoma.

Results: Thirteen eligible patients were enrolled in the initial study: 6 received 85 mg/m2 vismodegib, and 7 received 170 mg/m2. Twenty eligible patients were enrolled in the flat-dosing part of the study: 10 at each dosage level. Three dose-limiting toxicities were observed, but no drug-related bone toxicity was documented. The median (range) vismodegib penetration in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was 0.53 (0.26–0.78), when expressed as a ratio of the concentration of vismodegib in the CSF to that of the unbound drug in plasma. Antitumor activity was seen in 1 of 3 patients with SHH-subtype disease whose tumors were evaluable, and in none of the patients in the other subgroups.

Conclusions: Vismodegib was well tolerated in children with recurrent or refractory medulloblastoma; only two dose-limiting toxicities were observed with flat dosing. The recommended phase II study dose is 150 or 300 mg, depending on the patient's BSA. Clin Cancer Res; 19(22); 6305–12. ©2013 AACR.
Proteomic Markers of DNA Repair and PI3K Pathway Activation Predict Response to the PARP Inhibitor BMN 673 in Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Cardnell Robert J. , Feng Ying , Diao Lixia , Fan You-Hong , Masrorpour Fatemah , Wang Jing , Shen Yuqiao , Mills Gordon B. , Minna John D. , Heymach John V. , Byers Lauren A.
Published: September 2013

Purpose: Small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) is an aggressive malignancy affecting nearly 30,000 people annually in the United States. We have previously identified elevated PARP1 levels in SCLC and demonstrated in vitro sensitivity to the PARP inhibitors AZD 2281 and AG014699. Here, we evaluate activity of a novel, potent PARP inhibitor, BMN 673, and identify markers of response as a basis for developing predictive markers for clinical application.

Experimental Design: Inhibition of SCLC proliferation by BMN 673 was assayed in vitro and effects on tumor growth were measured in SCLC xenograft models. Protein expression and pathway activation was assessed by reverse phase protein array and western blot analysis. PARP inhibition was confirmed using a PAR ELISA.

Results: We demonstrate striking, single agent activity of BMN 673 in SCLC cell lines and xenografts, with single agent BMN 673 exhibiting in vivo activity similar to cisplatin. Sensitivity to BMN 673 was associated with elevated baseline expression levels of several DNA repair proteins, whereas greater drug resistance was observed in SCLC models with baseline activation of the PI3K/mTOR pathway. Furthermore, we developed and confirmed these data with a novel “DNA repair score” consisting of a group of 17 DNA repair proteins.

Conclusions: Elevated expression of multiple DNA repair proteins, as well as a corresponding “DNA repair protein score,” predict response to BMN 673 in in vitro SCLC models. These observations complement recent work in which PI3K inhibition sensitizes breast cancer models to PARP inhibition, suggesting cooperation between DNA repair and PI3K pathways. Clin Cancer Res; 19(22); 6322–8. ©2013 AACR.
Molecular Chaperone gp96 Is a Novel Therapeutic Target of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Hua Yunpeng , White-Gilbertson Shai , Kellner Joshua , Rachidi Saleh , Usmani Saad Z. , Chiosis Gabriela , DePinho Ronald , Li Zihai , Liu Bei
Published: September 2013

Purpose: gp96 (grp94) is a key downstream chaperone in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to mediate unfolded protein response (UPR) and the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma is closely linked to dysregulated UPR. In this study, we aimed to determine the roles of gp96 in the initiation and progression of multiple myeloma in vivo and in vitro.

Experimental Design: We generated a mouse model with overexpression of XBP1s and conditional deletion of gp96 in B-cell compartment simultaneously to identify the roles of gp96 in the development of multiple myeloma in vivo. Using a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) system, we silenced gp96 in multiple human multiple myeloma cells and examined the effect of gp96 knockdown on multiple myeloma cells by cell proliferation, cell-cycle analysis, apoptosis assay, immunohistochemistry, and human myeloma xenograft model. The anticancer activity of gp96 selective inhibitor, WS13, was evaluated by apoptosis assay and MTT assay.

Results: Genetic deletion of gp96 in XBP1s-Tg mice attenuates multiple myeloma. Silencing of gp96 causes severe compromise in human multiple myeloma cell growth through inhibiting Wnt-LRP-survivin pathway. We also confirmed that knockdown of gp96 decreased human multiple myeloma growth in a murine xenograft model. The targeted gp96 inhibitor induced apoptosis and blocked multiple myeloma cell growth, but did not induce apoptosis in pre-B leukemic cells. We have demonstrated that myeloma growth is dependent on gp96 both genetically and pharmacologically.

Conclusions: gp96 is essential for multiple myeloma cell proliferation and survival, suggesting that gp96 is a novel therapeutic target for multiple myeloma. Clin Cancer Res; 19(22); 6242–51. ©2013 AACR.
The Status of Mothers in the Early Chinese Mourning System
Authors: Zhou Yiqun
Published: September 2013

This essay examines the prescriptions on mourning for mothers in the Yili and the Liji, aiming to bring out the complex and evolving nature of the status of mothers in the centuries that saw the initial codification of the Chinese mourning system. The discrepancies between texts and within the same text, together with the ambiguity and lacunae in prescriptions, show that women’s identities in the patrilineal family were continuously contested and reshaped in the preimperial and early imperial periods. Major themes explored include: the fragmentation and fluidity of maternal roles, the tension between patrilineal principles and natural feelings, the ambivalent roles of divorced mothers and remarried mothers, the systematic suppression of mothers of concubine status, and the intricate linkage between the wife’s status and the mother’s status. The changes and ambiguities emphasized in the paper have important implications for our understanding of the later evolution of the mourning system. 

Cet article s’intéresse aux prescriptions relatives au deuil des mères dans le Yili et le Liji; l’objectif est de mettre en évidence la complexité et le caractère évolutif du statut des mères pendant les siècles qui ont vu les débuts de la codification du système de deuil en Chine. Les divergences entre les textes ou à l’intérieur d’un même texte, en même temps que les ambiguïtés et les lacunes des prescriptions, montrent que les identités féminines au sein de la famille patrilinéaire n’ont cessé d’être contestées et refaçonnées pendant la période pré-impériale et au début de l’empire. Les principaux thèmes abordés incluent la fragmentation et la fluidité des rôles maternels, la tension entre les principes patrilinéaires et les sentiments naturels, le rôle ambivalent des mères divorcées ou remariées, le refoulement systématique des mères ayant le statut de concubines, et les relations complexes entre le statut de l’épouse et celui de la mère. Les évolutions et les ambiguïtés mises en avant dans l’article ont des implications importantes pour notre compréhension de l’évolution ultérieure du système de deuil.
Predictors of Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Sarli Bahadir , Baktir Ahmet Oguz , Cebicci Mehtap , Dogan Yasemin , Demirbas Melih , Kurtul Serkan , Saglam Hayrettin , Akpek Mahmut , Sahin Omer , Arinc Huseyin
Published: September 2013

We investigated the predictors of endothelial dysfunction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilatation (FMD). The study population included 50 patients with RA and 30 controls. Disease activity score (DAS28) was calculated for patients with RA. An FMD response <7% was accepted as impaired FMD. Brachial artery Doppler study revealed that in patients with RA, FMD% was significantly lower as compared with controls (6.6% ± 3.5% vs 9.7% ± 41%, P = .002). After multivariate logistic regression analysis, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR; OR: 1.086, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.012-1.167, P = .023), duration of RA (OR: 1.392, 95% CI: 1.044-1.856, P = .024), and DAS28 (OR: 3.335, 95% CI: 1.067-10.42, P = .038) were independent predictors of impaired FMD in patients with RA. Endothelial function is impaired in patients with RA. Disease duration, DAS28, and ESR indicating active inflammation are independent predictors of impaired FMD in patients with RA.
Combined Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting and Open Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Is a Reasonable Treatment Approach
Authors: Spanos Konstantinos , Saleptsis Vasileios , Karathanos Christos , Rousas Nikolaos , Athanasoulas Athanasios , Giannoukas Athanasios D.
Published: September 2013

We reviewed the literature for studies investigating the outcomes of combined 1-stage coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) open repair (OR) procedures. An electronic search of the English literature was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. Age, coronary heart disease severity, AAA size, mean duration from CABG to AAA OR procedures, details of each procedure, mortality, and morbidity rates were analyzed. Between 1994 and 2012, 12 studies (256 patients) with 1-stage treatment fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. There were 20 early (30 days) deaths, accounting for a 30-day mortality rate of 7.8%. The early morbidity was 53% (136 of 256). One-stage treatment when necessary can be undertaken with acceptable mortality and reasonable morbidity rates considering the complexity of both the operations. Nowadays, endovascular AAA repair is preferred over OR. The outcomes of combined cardiac surgery and endovascular AAA repair have not been extensively evaluated.
Seeking sustainable legitimacy: Existential challenges for Mali
Authors: Sears Jonathan M
Published: September 2013

After 20 years of relative social peace, Mali again faces fundamental challenges. Beyond the need to reestablish security and an administrative presence in the north, the Malian state also needs to establish political legitimacy and moral authority in representing the country’s diverse communities. Notwithstanding the country’s two decades of democratization supported by international donor-partners, sustainable livelihoods and meaningful citizenship elude many Malians. Mali is a secular, multi-ethnic, and democratic state marked by its social divisions (e.g. regional, urban–rural, and identity-based). Sustainable political legitimacy rests on the sensitive and sensible engagement of state agencies, non-state actors, and donor-partners with the existing social regulations, livelihoods, and identities of Mali’s communities.
Cultural Leaders and the Clash of Civilizations
Authors: Hauk Esther , Mueller Hannes
Published: September 2013

This article builds a microfounded model of cultural conflict. In this model, intrinsically motivated cultural leaders supply and interpret culture. Leaders have an incentive to amplify disagreement about cultural values. This leads to a clash of perspectives between cultures. The population benefits from the supply of culture but suffers if leaders amplify the clash of perspectives. The article discusses constraints to leader behavior and analyzes how economic factors affect the incentives of cultural leaders. Economic strength can lead to displays of cultural arrogance while economic integration between groups can hinder cultural alienation.
Narrow interests and military resource allocation in autocratic regimes
Authors: Conrad Justin , Kim Hong-Cheol , Souva Mark
Published: September 2013

Why do some autocratic states allocate more resources to the military than others? We contend that as narrow political interests have more influence on a leader, relative to broader political interests, a state’s military burden increases. Further, we argue that two domestic factors are central to explaining the relative strength of narrow political interests for military spending, and therefore variation in state military burden. First, institutions that increase the cost of political participation reduce the influence of the median citizen, increasing the strength of narrow political interests and, concomitantly, military spending. Second, as a regime ages, narrow interests become more entrenched and the regime becomes less concerned about overthrow. In turn, older regimes spend more on their militaries. We test hypotheses from this argument by examining the military burden for all autocracies over the period 1950–2000. We find that variation in restrictions on political participation and the age of the regime are central to understanding differences in military spending among autocracies. Further, once these institutional features are taken into account, we find only modest support for the view that certain types of regimes spend more than others. What matters is not regime type but specific institutional features that affect the strength of narrow interests and vary across, and within, autocratic regimes.