bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maxillary Antrolith: A Rare Cause of the Recurrent Sinusitis
Authors: Shenoy Vijendra , Maller Vinod , Maller Vijetha
Published: February 2013

Introduction. An antrolith is a calcified mass within the maxillary sinus. The origin of the nidus of calcification may be extrinsic (foreign body in sinus) or intrinsic (stagnant mucus and fungal ball). Most antroliths are small and asymptomatic. Larger ones may present as sinusitis with symptoms like pain and discharge.Case Report. We report a case of a 47-year-old lady who presented with heaviness on the left side of the face and loosening of the left 2nd molar tooth since two months. CT scan of the osteomeatal complex and paranasal sinuses showed an opacification of bilateral maxillary sinus and an amorphous area of bone density in the left maxillary sinus. Because of the size of the mass, benign neoplasms were considered in the differential diagnosis. During an endoscopic sinus surgery, it was found to be an antrolith, which was successfully managed by antrostomy and Caldwell-Luc Surgery.Discussion. Antrolith is a rare condition. Rhinoliths are known to invade into the maxillary antrum, but a localised lesion in the antrum is very unusual. A case of an isolated antrolith is presented for its rarity and for differential diagnosis of localised antral disease.Conclusion. Antrolith should be considered as differential diagnosis of unilateral radio-opaque paranasal sinus lesions.
Experimental Airborne Transmission of Porcine Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome
Authors: Kristensen C. S. , Hjulsager C. K. , Vestergaard K. , Dupont K. , Bille-Hansen V. , Enøe C. , Jorsal S. E. , Bækbo P. , Larsen L. E.
Published: February 2013

The objective of these studies was to investigate if porcine postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) could be induced in healthy pigs following contact with air from pigs with clinical signs of PMWS. The pigs were housed in different units. Either 31 (study I) or 25 (study II) pigs with clinical symptoms of PMWS from a PMWS-affected herd and 25 healthy pigs from a PMWS-free, but PCV2-positive, herd were housed in unit A. Fifty pigs from a PMWS-free herd were housed in unit B, which were connected by pipes to unit A. In unit C, 30 pigs from a PMWS-free herd were housed as controls. In study II, the pigs in units A and B from the PMWS-free herd developed clinical signs of PMWS 2-3 weeks after arrival. PMWS was confirmed at necropsy and the diseased pigs had increased PCV2 load and increased antibody titers against PCV2 in serum that coincided with the development of clinical signs typical of PMWS. Sequence analysis revealed that the PCV2 isolate belonged to genotype 2b. In conclusion, the present study showed that PMWS can be induced in pigs from a PMWS-free herd by airborne contact with pigs from a PMWS-affected herd.
Power Law and Entropy Analysis of Catastrophic Phenomena
Authors: Tenreiro Machado J. A. , Pinto Carla M. A. , Lopes A. Mendes
Published: February 2013

Catastrophic events, such as wars and terrorist attacks, tornadoes and hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and landslides, are always accompanied by a large number of casualties. The size distribution of these casualties has separately been shown to follow approximate power law (PL) distributions. In this paper, we analyze the statistical distributions of the number of victims of catastrophic phenomena, in particular, terrorism, and find double PL behavior. This means that the data sets are better approximated by two PLs instead of a single one. We plot the PL parameters, corresponding to several events, and observe an interesting pattern in the charts, where the lines that connect each pair of points defining the double PLs are almost parallel to each other. A complementary data analysis is performed by means of the computation of the entropy. The results reveal relationships hidden in the data that may trigger a future comprehensive explanation of this type of phenomena.
Impact of Physical Activity Intervention Programs on Self-Efficacy in Youths: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cataldo Rosa , John Janice , Chandran Latha , Pati Susmita , Shroyer A. Laurie W.
Published: February 2013

Lack of physical activity has contributed to the nation’s childhood obesity crisis, but the impact of physical activity on self-efficacy as a mediator of behavior change has not been examined. This systematic review (SR) describes the published evidence related to the impact of physical activity intervention programs on self-efficacy among youths. From January 2000 to June 2011, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards were used to identify publications from PubMed, PsychInfo, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochran Database of Systematic Reviews. The Cochrane Population, Intervention, Control, Outcome, Study Design (PICOS) approach guided this SR articles selection and evaluation process. Of the 102 publications screened, 10 original studies matched the SR inclusion criteria. The types of physical activity interventions and self-efficacy assessments for these 10 studies were diverse. Of the 10 included articles, 6 articles identified an improvement in post-self-efficacy assessments compared to baseline and 4 showed no effect. In conclusion, physical activity intervention programs may improve self-efficacy in youths. A standardized approach to classify and measure self-efficacy is required. Further research is needed to quantify the association of self-efficacy ratings after completing physical activity interventions with objective health improvements, such as weight loss.
On Maximum Lee Distance Codes
Authors: Alderson Tim L. , Huntemann Svenja
Published: February 2013

Singleton-type upper bounds on the minimum Lee distance of general (not necessarily linear) Lee codes overℤqare discussed. Two bounds known for linear codes are shown to also hold in the general case, and several new bounds are established. Codes meeting these bounds are investigated and in some cases characterised.
A Finite Difference Scheme for Pricing American Put Options under Kou's Jump-Diffusion Model
Authors: Huang Jian , Cen Zhongdi , Le Anbo
Published: February 2013

We present a stable finite difference scheme on a piecewise uniform mesh along with a penalty method for pricing American put options under Kou's jump-diffusion model. By adding a penalty term, the partial integrodifferential complementarity problem arising from pricing American put options under Kou's jump-diffusion model is transformed into a nonlinear parabolic integro-differential equation. Then a finite difference scheme is proposed to solve the penalized integrodifferential equation, which combines a central difference scheme on a piecewise uniform mesh with respect to the spatial variable with an implicit-explicit time stepping technique. This leads to the solution of problems with a tridiagonal M-matrix. It is proved that the difference scheme satisfies the early exercise constraint. Furthermore, it is proved that the scheme is oscillation-free and is second-order convergent with respect to the spatial variable. The numerical results support the theoretical results.
Singlet Generation from Triplet Excitons in Fluorescent Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Monkman A. P.
Published: February 2013

A potential major drawback with organic light-emitting devices, (OLEDs) is the limit of 25% singlet exciton production through spin-dependent charge recombination. Recent device results, however, show that this limit does not hold and far higher efficiencies can be achieved in purely fluorescent-based systems (Wohlgenannt et al. (2001), Dhoot et al. (2002), Lin et al. (2003), Wilson et al. (2001), Cao et al. (1999), Baldo et al. (1999), and Kim et al. (2000)). Thus, the question arises; is recombination spin dependent (Tandon et al. (2003)) or are singlet excitons generated in secondary processes? Direct measurement of the singlet generation rate in working devices of 44% has been shown (Rothe et al. (2006)), which have been verified as being part due to direct singlets formed on recombination and part from triplet fusion, singlets produced during triplet annihilation (Kondakov et al. (2009), King et al. (2011), and Zhang and Forrest (2012)). Here, the various routes by which triplet excitons can generate singlet states are discussed and their relative contributions to the overall electroluminescence yield are given. The materials requirements to obtain maximum singlet production from triplet states are discussed. These triplet contributions can give very high device yields for fluorescent emitters, which in the case of blue devices can be highly advantageous. Further, new devices architectures open up which are simple and have intrinsically low turn on voltages, ideal for large-area OLED lighting applications.
Prescription Surveillance and Polymerase Chain Reaction Testing to Identify Pathogens during Outbreaks of Infection
Authors: Sugiura Hiroaki , Fujimoto Tsuguto , Sugawara Tamie , Hanaoka Nozomu , Konagaya Masami , Kikuchi Kiyoshi , Hanada Eisuke , Okabe Nobuhiko , Ohkusa Yasushi
Published: February 2013

Syndromic surveillance, including prescription surveillance, offers a rapid method for the early detection of agents of bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. However, it has the disadvantage of not considering definitive diagnoses. Here, we attempted to definitively diagnose pathogens using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) immediately after the prescription surveillance system detected an outbreak. Specimens were collected from 50 patients with respiratory infections. PCR was used to identify the pathogens, which included 14 types of common respiratory viruses andMycoplasma pneumoniae. Infectious agents includingM. pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus, enterovirus, and parainfluenza virus were detected in 54% of patients. For the rapid RSV diagnosis kit, sensitivity was 80% and specificity was 85%. For the rapid adenovirus diagnosis kit, no positive results were obtained; therefore, sensitivity could not be calculated and specificity was 100%. Many patients were found to be treated for upper respiratory tract infections without the diagnosis of a specific pathogen. In Japan, an outbreak ofM. pneumoniaeinfection began in 2011, and our results suggested that this outbreak may have included false-positive cases. By combining syndromic surveillance and PCR, we were able to rapidly and accurately identify causative pathogens during a recent respiratory infection outbreak.
Amyand’s Hernia in a 6-Week-Old Infant: A Delayed Diagnosis
Authors: Piedade Cláudia , Reis Alves Júlio
Published: February 2013

In Amyand’s hernia, the hernia sac contains the appendix. This can be normal and accidentally found during herniotomy or inflamed and present as acute scrotum, although the latter is less frequent. We present a case of a male infant with scrotal abscess resulting from Amyand’s hernia, with appendicitis and periappendicular abscess.
Foundations and Technological Landscape of Cloud Computing
Authors: Phaphoom Nattakarn , Wang Xiaofeng , Abrahamsson Pekka
Published: February 2013

The cloud computing paradigm has brought the benefits of utility computing to a global scale. It has gained paramount attention in recent years. Companies are seriously considering to adopt this new paradigm and expecting to receive significant benefits. In fact, the concept of cloud computing is not a revolution in terms of technology; it has been established based on the solid ground of virtualization, distributed system, and web services. To comprehend cloud computing, its foundations and technological landscape need to be adequately understood. This paper provides a comprehensive review on the building blocks of cloud computing and relevant technological aspects. It focuses on four key areas including architecture, virtualization, data management, and security issues.
Volume Management in the Critically Ill Patient with Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Labib Mary , Khalid Raeesa , Khan Akram , Khan Supriya
Published: February 2013

Acute kidney injury (AKI) frequently occurs in the setting of critical illness and its management poses a challenge for the intensivist. Optimal management of volume status is critical in the setting of AKI in the ICU patient. The use of urine sodium, the fractional excretion of sodium (FeNa), and the fractional excretion of urea (FeUrea) are common clinical tools used to help guide fluid management especially further volume expansion but should be used in the context of the patient’s overall clinical scenario as they are not completely sensitive or specific for the finding of volume depletion and can be misleading. In the case of oliguric or anuric AKI, diuretics are often utilized to increase the urine output although current evidence suggests that they are best reserved for the treatment of volume overload and hyperkalemia in patients who are likely to respond to them. Management of volume overload in ICU patients with AKI is especially important as volume overload has several negative effects on organ function and overall morbidity and mortality.
Time-Delayed Interactions in Networks of Self-Adapting Hopf Oscillators
Authors: Rodriguez Julio , Hongler Max-Olivier , Blanchard Philippe
Published: February 2013

A network of coupled limit cycle oscillators with delayed interactions is considered. The parameters characterizing the oscillator’s frequency and limit cycle are allowed to self-adapt. Adaptation is due to time-delayed state variables that mutually interact via a network. The self-adaptive mechanisms ultimately drive all coupled oscillators to a consensual cyclostationary state, where the values of the parameters are identical for all local systems. They are analytically expressible. The interplay between the spectral properties of the coupling matrix and the time delays determines the conditions for which convergence towards a consensual state takes place. Once reached, this consensual state subsists even if interactions are removed. In our class of models, the consensual values of the parameters depend neither on the delays nor on the network’s topologies.
Laparoscopic Primary Colorrhaphy for Acute Iatrogenic Perforations during Colonoscopy
Authors: Haas Eric M. , Pedraza Rodrigo , Ragupathi Madhu , Mahmood Ali , Bartley Pickron T.
Published: February 2013

Purpose. We present our experience with laparoscopic colorrhaphy as definitive surgical modality for the management of colonoscopic perforations.Methods. Over a 17-month period, we assessed the outcomes of consecutive patients presenting with acute colonoscopic perforations. Patient characteristics and perioperative parameters were tabulated. Postoperative outcomes were evaluated within 30 days following discharge.Results. Five female patients with a mean age of 71.4 ± 9.7 years (range: 58–83), mean BMI of 26.4 ± 3.4 kg/m2(range: 21.3–30.9), and median ASA score of 2 (range: 2-3) presented with acute colonoscopic perforations. All perforations were successfully managed through laparoscopic colorrhaphy within 24 hours of development. The perforations were secondary to direct trauma(n=3)or thermal injury(n=2)and were localized to the sigmoid(n=4)or cecum(n=1). None of the patients required surgical resection, diversion, or conversion to an open procedure. No intra- or postoperative complications were encountered. The mean length of hospital stay was 3.8 ± 0.8 days (range: 3–5). There were no readmissions or reoperations.Conclusion. Acute colonoscopic perforations can be safely managed via laparoscopic primary repair without requiring resection or diversion. Early recognition and intervention are essential for successful outcomes.
Investigation of Occult Hip Fractures: The Use of CT and MRI
Authors: Gill S. K. , Smith J. , Fox R. , Chesser T. J. S.
Published: February 2013

Aim. At present there is no data looking at modern multislice computerised tomography (CT) in the investigation of occult hip fracture. The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare the reports of patients sent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CT with negative radiographs and a clinical suspicion of a fractured neck of femur. Methods. All patients presenting to the hospital with a clinical suspicion of a hip fracture but initial negative radiographs over a three‐year period were included. Patients were either investigated with an MRI scan or CT scan. The presence of a fracture, the requirement for surgery, and any further requirement for imaging were recorded. Results. Over three years 92 patients were included of which 61 were referred for a CT and 31 for an MRI. Thirty‐four patients were found to have a fracture. Of these, MRI picked up a fracture in 36% and CT in 38% of referrals. Discussion. Up to 10% of proximal femur fractures may be missed on initial radiographs. Current guidelines state patients should be offered MRI if hip fracture is suspected despite negative hip radiographs. Our findings show that modern multislice CT may be comparable with MRI for detecting occult fracture.
Is Sacralization Really a Cause of Low Back Pain?
Authors: Bulut Mehmet , Uçar Bekir Yavuz , Uçar Demet , Azboy İbrahim , Demirtaş Abdullah , Alemdar Celil , Gem Mehmet , Özkul Emin
Published: February 2013

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine, by plain radiography, if there is a relationship between sacralization and low back pain.Methods. Five hundred lumbosacral radiographs of low back pain patients and 500 control groups were examined. Data collection consisted of the subject’s age at the time of imaging, gender, number of lumbar vertebral bodies, and bilateral height measurement of the lowest lumbar transverse process. Dysplastic transverse processes were classified according to the Castellvi radiographic classification system. The incidence of sacralization in patients and the control groups was reported, and the anomaly was compared according to the groups.Results. Of these patients groups, 106 were classified as positive for sacralization, which resulted in an incidence of 21.2%. The most common anatomical variant was Castellvi Type IA (6.8%). In the control group, 84 were classified as positive for sacralization, which resulted in an incidence of 16.8%. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups for having sacralization (P= 0.09).Discussion. The relationship between sacralization and low back pain is not clear. Because of this controversial future studies need to focus on identifying other parameters that are relevant to distinguishing lumbosacral variation, as well as corroborating the results obtained here with data from other samples.
Proteases fromEntamoebaspp. and Pathogenic Free-Living Amoebae as Virulence Factors
Authors: Serrano-Luna Jesús , Piña-Vázquez Carolina , Reyes-López Magda , Ortiz-Estrada Guillermo , de la Garza Mireya
Published: February 2013

The standard reference for pathogenic and nonpathogenic amoebae is the human parasiteEntamoeba histolytica; a direct correlation between virulence and protease expression has been demonstrated for this amoeba. Traditionally, proteases are considered virulence factors, including those that produce cytopathic effects in the host or that have been implicated in manipulating the immune response. Here, we expand the scope to other amoebae, including less-pathogenicEntamoebaspecies and highly pathogenic free-living amoebae. In this paper, proteases that affect mucin, extracellular matrix, immune system components, and diverse tissues and cells are included, based on studies in amoebic cultures and animal models. We also include proteases used by amoebae to degrade iron-containing proteins because iron scavenger capacity is currently considered a virulence factor for pathogens. In addition, proteases that have a role in adhesion and encystation, which are essential for establishing and transmitting infection, are discussed. The study of proteases and their specific inhibitors is relevant to the search for new therapeutic targets and to increase the power of drugs used to treat the diseases caused by these complex microorganisms.
Inspiratory Capacity during Exercise: Measurement, Analysis, and Interpretation
Authors: Guenette Jordan A. , Chin Roberto C. , Cory Julia M. , Webb Katherine A. , O'Donnell Denis E.
Published: February 2013

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is an established method for evaluating dyspnea and ventilatory abnormalities. Ventilatory reserve is typically assessed as the ratio of peak exercise ventilation to maximal voluntary ventilation. Unfortunately, this crude assessment provides limited data on the factors that limit the normal ventilatory response to exercise. Additional measurements can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of respiratory mechanical constraints during CPET (e.g., expiratory flow limitation and operating lung volumes). These measurements are directly dependent on an accurate assessment of inspiratory capacity (IC) throughout rest and exercise. Despite the valuable insight that the IC provides, there are no established recommendations on how to perform the maneuver during exercise and how to analyze and interpret the data. Accordingly, the purpose of this manuscript is to comprehensively examine a number of methodological issues related to the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of the IC. We will also briefly discuss IC responses to exercise in health and disease and will consider how various therapeutic interventions influence the IC, particularly in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Our main conclusion is that IC measurements are both reproducible and responsive to therapy and provide important information on the mechanisms of dyspnea and exercise limitation during CPET.
Mast Cell Subsets and Their Functional Modulation by theAcanthocheilonema viteaeProduct ES-62
Authors: Ball Dimity H. , Tay Hwee Kee , Bell Kara S. , Coates Michelle L. , Al-Riyami Lamyaa , Rzepecka Justyna , Harnett William , Harnett Margaret M.
Published: February 2013

ES-62, an immunomodulator secreted by filarial nematodes, exhibits therapeutic potential in mouse models of allergic inflammation, at least in part by inducing the desensitisation of FcεRI-mediated mast cell responses. However, in addition to their pathogenic roles in allergic and autoimmune diseases, mast cells are important in fighting infection, wound healing, and resolving inflammation, reflecting that mast cells exhibit a phenotypic and functional plasticity. We have therefore characterised the differential functional responses to antigen (via FcεRI) and LPS and their modulation by ES-62 of the mature peritoneal-derived mast cells (PDMC; serosal) and those of the connective tissue-like mast cells (CTMC) and the mucosal-like mast cells derived from bone marrow progenitors (BMMC) as a first step to produce disease tissue-targeted therapeutics based on ES-62 action. All three mast cell populations were rendered hyporesponsive by ES-62 and whilst the mechanisms underlying such desensitisation have not been fully delineated, they reflect a downregulation of calcium and PKCαsignalling. ES-62 also downregulated MyD88 and PKCδin mucosal-type BMMC but not PDMC, the additional signals targeted in mucosal-type BMMC likely reflecting that these cells respond to antigen and LPS by degranulation and cytokine secretion whereas PDMC predominantly respond in a degranulation-based manner.
Social Network Support for Individuals Receiving Opiate Substitution Treatment and Its Association with Treatment Progress
Authors: Day Ed , Copello Alex , Karia Minesh , Roche John , Grewal Panthratan , George Sanju , Haque Sayeed , Chohan Gagandeep
Published: February 2013

Background/Aims: Social networks have been hypothesized to protect people from the harmful effects of stress, but may also provide dysfunctional role models and provide cues associated with drug use. This study describes the range, type and level of social support available to patients engaged in UK opiate substitution treatment (OST) programmes, and explores the association between network factors and continued use of illicit heroin. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of a randomly selected sample of OST patients (n = 118) utilised measures of current substance use and social network structure and support. Results: More than half of the participants had used heroin in the previous month, and most described networks that were both supportive and positive about treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that the substance use involvement of network members was higher in those patients still using heroin, even when other treatment factors were controlled for. Conclusion: There was a strong association between ongoing contact with other drug users and continued use of illicit heroin in this treatment sample. Whilst there is potential for the involvement of social networks in treatment, future research needs to ascertain the exact nature of the relationship between social support and drug use.
Validation of the Four-Dimensional Structure of Drinking Motives among Adults
Authors: Crutzen Rik , Kuntsche Emmanuel
Published: February 2013

Background: In the motivational model of alcohol use, there are two dimensions underlying the classification of drinking motives resulting in four drinking motive categories: enhancement, social, coping, and conformity motives. Methods: Using confirmatory factor analysis, the current study provides evidence on the best fitting factor structure in a large representative general population study among adults in the Netherlands (n = 2,440; two data waves separated by 3 months) using the DMQ-R (Drinking Motives Questionnaire Revised). Results: The four-factor structure had the best fit at both time points in comparison with any other solution. Test-retest reliabilities indicate individual motive change in level over time, but not in terms of the four-factor structure. Conclusion: The results replicate and extend previous findings among adolescents, in line with the motivational model of alcohol use, and suggest the utility of using the DMQ-R in future studies on adults’ drinking motives.
Baseline White Blood Cell Count Is an Independent Predictor of Long-Term Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome, but It Does Not Improve the Risk Classification of the GRACE Score
Authors: Taglieri Nevio , Bacchi Reggiani Maria Letizia , Palmerini Tullio , Cinti Laura , Saia Francesco , Guastaroba Paolo , Marrozzini Cinzia , Moretti Carolina , Montefiori Michela , Rosmini Stefania , Alessi Laura , Vagnarelli Fabio , Branzi Angelo , Rapezzi Claudio , Marzocchi Antonio
Published: February 2013

Objectives: To investigate the prognostic significance of baseline white blood cell count (WBCc) in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) and its additive predictive value beyond the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score. Methods: We included 1,315 consecutive NSTE-ACS patients. Patients were divided in quartiles according to the WBCc (cells per 1 mm3) i.e. Q1 <6,850, Q2 = 6,850–8,539, Q3 = 8,540–10,857 and Q4 ≥10,858. The study end point was 3-year cardiovascular death (CVD). Results: The median age of the study population was 76 years. Overall, 335 patients (25.5%) died with 211 of these (16%) suffering from CVD. Patients in Q4 showed a higher cumulative probability of CVD compared to patients in Q1–Q3. On multivariable analysis, patients in Q4 were at higher risk of CVD [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09–1.98, p = 0.011]. WBCc as a continuous variable was also independently associated with the study end point (HR = 1.043; 95% CI 1.02–1.07; p = 0.001). However, the incorporation of WBCc into the GRACE score did not improve either prediction of risk (C-index = 0.796 for GRACE score with or without WBCc) or classification of risk [relative integrated discrimination improvement = 0.0154, 95% CI) –0.029 to 0.0618; continuous net reclassification improvement = –0.0676, 95% CI –0.2149–0.0738). Conclusions: WBCc was an independent predictor of 3-year CVD in patients with NSTE-ACS. However, it did not add prognostic information beyond the GRACE score.
Chemopreventive Effect of Ardisia crispa Hexane Fraction on the Peri-Initiation Phase of Mouse Skin Tumorigenesis
Authors: Hamid Roslida Abdul , Othman Fezah , Anthony Jacyln Janeris , Ting Yeong Looi
Published: February 2013

Objective: To investigate the chemopreventive effect of the hexane extract of Ardisia crispa during the peri-initiation phase of mouse skin tumorigenesis. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted for 12 weeks on two-stage 7,12-dimethylbenz(α)-anthracene (DMBA)-induced tumor initiation followed by croton-oil-induced tumor promotion in mice. A. crispa root hexane extract (ACRH) was applied at various doses (30, 100, 300 mg/kg) 7 days prior to and after DMBA treatment. Throughout the study, morphological observations, i.e., tumor incidence, tumor volume and tumor burden were measured for each of the treated groups. At the end of the experiment, the mice were sacrificed and their skin tissues were examined histopathologically. Results: The highest dose of ACRH (300 mg/kg) significantly delayed tumor formation (week 9, p < 0.05) and exhibited the lowest tumor volume (0.71 ± 0.00 mm3, p < 0.05), tumor burden (2.00 ± 0.00, p < 0.05), and tumor incidence (16.67%, p < 0.05) compared to other doses of ACRH. A 100-mg/kg dose produced tumor latency at week 7, tumor volume of 2.44 ± 0.88 mm3 (p < 0.05), tumor burden of 1.60 ± 0.60 (p < 0.05), and tumor incidence of 50%; 30 mg/kg produced tumor latency at week 8, tumor volume of 2.04 ± 0.45 mm3 (p < 0.05), tumor burden of 2.17 ± 0.54, tumor incidence of 60% and carcinogen control (tumor latency at week 7; tumor volume, 3.56 mm3; tumor incidence of 66.67%). Conclusion: The highest dose of A. crispa hexane extract delayed tumor development, thus showing a chemopreventive effect on mouse skin tumorigenesis.
Chemoradiation in the Management of Cervix Cancer: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Markman Maurie
Published: February 2013

Cytotoxic chemotherapy has been shown to have only a very modest impact on outcome in recurrent, persistent, or metastatic cervix cancer. Despite this fact, when cisplatin is administered concurrently with external beam radiation as a ‘chemosensitizing’ strategy, both progression-free and overall survival have been shown in multiple evidence-based randomized trials to be improved compared to the delivery of radiation alone. Ongoing research in this area has focused on improving the drug component of this strategy and on following the concurrent chemoradiation with systemic (‘adjuvant’) therapy.
Loss of Continuity in the Thin Epicardial Layer Because of Endomysial Fibrosis Increases the Complexity of Atrial Fibrillatory Conduction
Authors: Verheule Sander , Tuyls Els , Gharaviri Ali , Hulsmans Sarah , van Hunnik Arne , Kuiper Marion , Serroyen Jan , Zeemering Stef , Kuijpers Nico H.L. , Schotten Ulrich
Published: February 2013

Background—

The transition from persistent to permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased complexity of fibrillatory conduction. We have investigated the spatial distribution of fibrillation waves and structural alterations in the atrial free walls in a goat model of AF.

Methods and Results—

AF was maintained for 3 weeks (short term [ST], persistent AF) or 6 months (long term [LT], permanent AF). Fibrillation patterns were assessed with epicardial mapping. The origin of fibrillation waves and sites of conduction abnormalities were more homogeneously distributed in LT than in ST goats. Histologically, the total area fraction occupied by fibrous tissue and the degree of perimysial fibrosis (separation between myocyte bundles) were not significantly different between groups. However, endomysial fibrosis (distance between myocytes within bundles) was significantly larger in LT goats, particularly in the outer millimeter of the atria. By contrast, myocyte diameters were larger in LT goats throughout the atrial walls. High-resolution optical mapping showed that epicardial wavefront expansion was slower and more anisotropic in LT than in ST goats. Finally, a mathematical model of a simplified atrial architecture confirmed the potential impact of epicardial endomysial fibrosis on AF complexity.

Conclusions—

Altered propagation after 6 months of AF is consistent with homogeneous structural remodeling in the outer millimeter of the atria. Loss of continuity of the epicardial layer because of endomysial fibrosis may reduce its synchronizing effect, thereby increasing the complexity of fibrillatory conduction pathways. The exact distribution of fibrosis may be more important for the occurrence of conduction disturbances than the overall quantity.
Randomized Controlled Effectiveness Trial of Reciprocal Peer Support in Heart Failure
Authors: Heisler Michele , Halasyamani Lakshmi , Cowen Mark E. , Davis Matthew D. , Resnicow Ken , Strawderman Robert L. , Choi Hwajung , Mase Rebecca , Piette John D.
Published: February 2013

Background—

Although disease management programs for patients hospitalized with heart failure (HF) are effective, they are, however, often resource intensive, limiting their uptake. Peer support programs have led to improved outcomes among patients with other chronic conditions and may result in similar improvements for patients with HF.

Methods and Results—

In this randomized controlled trial, Reciprocal Peer Support (RPS) arm patients participated in a HF nurse practitioner–led goal setting group session, received brief training in peer communication skills, and were paired with another participant in their cohort with whom they were encouraged to talk weekly using a telephone platform. Participants were also encouraged to attend 3 nurse practitioner–facilitated peer support group sessions. Patients in the nurse care management arm attended a nurse practitioner–led session to address their HF care questions and receive HF educational materials and information on how to access care management services. The median age of the patients was 69 years; 51% were female and 26% were racial/ethnic minorities. Only 55% of RPS patients participated in peer calls or group sessions. In intention-to-treat analyses, the RPS and nurse care management groups did not differ in time-to-first all-cause rehospitalization or death or in mean numbers of rehospitalizations or deaths. There were no differences in improvements in 6-month measures of HF-specific quality of life or social support.

Conclusions—

Among patients recently hospitalized for HF, more than half of RPS participants had no or minimal engagement with the RPS program, and the program did not improve outcomes compared with usual HF nurse care management.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00508508.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients With Heart Failure and a QRS Complex <120 Milliseconds
Authors: Thibault Bernard , Harel François , Ducharme Anique , White Michel , Ellenbogen Kenneth A. , Frasure-Smith Nancy , Roy Denis , Philippon François , Dorian Paul , Talajic Mario , Dubuc Marc , Guerra Peter G. , Macle Laurent , Rivard Léna , Andrade Jason , Khairy Paul
Published: February 2013

Background—

Although the benefits of cardiac resynchronization therapy are well established in selected patients with heart failure and a prolonged QRS duration, salutary effects in patients with narrow QRS complexes remain to be demonstrated.

Methods and Results—

The Evaluation of Resynchronization Therapy for Heart Failure (LESSER-EARTH) trial is a randomized, double-blind, 12-center study that was designed to compare the effects of active and inactive cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction and a QRS duration <120 milliseconds. The trial was interrupted prematurely by the Data Safety and Monitoring Board because of futility and safety concerns after 85 patients were randomized. Changes in exercise duration after 12 months were no different in patients with and without active cardiac resynchronization therapy (−0.7 minutes [95% confidence interval (CI), −2.9 to 1.5] versus 0.8 minutes [95% CI, −1.2 to 2.9];
P
=0.31]. Similarly, no significant differences were observed in left ventricular end-systolic volumes (−6.4 mL [95% CI, −18.8 to 5.9] versus 3.1 mL [95% CI, −9.2 to 15.5];
P
=0.28) and ejection fraction (3.3% [95% CI, 0.7–6.0] versus 2.1% [95% CI, −0.5 to 4.8];
P
=0.52). Moreover, cardiac resynchronization therapy was associated with a significant reduction in the 6-minute walk distance (−11.3 m [95% CI, −31.7 to 9.7] versus 25.3 m [95% CI, 6.1–44.5];
P
=0.01), an increase in QRS duration (40.2 milliseconds [95% CI, 34.2–46.2] versus 3.4 milliseconds [95% CI, 0.6–6.2];
P
<0.0001), and a nonsignificant trend toward an increase in heart failure–related hospitalizations (15 hospitalizations in 5 patients versus 4 hospitalizations in 4 patients).

Conclusions—

In patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%, symptoms of heart failure, and a QRS duration <120 milliseconds, cardiac resynchronization therapy did not improve clinical outcomes or left ventricular remodeling and was associated with potential harm.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00900549.
Early Diffusion-Weighted Imaging and Perfusion-Weighted Imaging Lesion Volumes Forecast Final Infarct Size in DEFUSE 2
Authors: Wheeler Hayley M. , Mlynash Michael , Inoue Manabu , Tipirneni Aaryani , Liggins John , Zaharchuk Greg , Straka Matus , Kemp Stephanie , Bammer Roland , Lansberg Maarten G. , Albers Gregory W.
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose—

It is hypothesized that early diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) lesions accurately estimate the size of the irreversibly injured core and thresholded perfusion-weighted imaging (PWI) lesions (time to maximum of tissue residue function [Tmax] >6 seconds) approximate the volume of critically hypoperfused tissue. With incomplete reperfusion, the union of baseline DWI and posttreatment PWI is hypothesized to predict infarct volume.

Methods—

This is a substudy of Diffusion and Perfusion Imaging Evaluation for Understanding Stroke Evolution Study 2 (DEFUSE 2); all patients with technically adequate MRI scans at 3 time points were included. Baseline DWI and early follow-up PWI lesion volumes were determined by the RAPID software program. Final infarct volumes were assessed with 5-day fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and were corrected for edema. Reperfusion was defined on the basis of the reduction in PWI lesion volume between baseline and early follow-up MRI. DWI and PWI volumes were correlated with final infarct volumes.

Results—

Seventy-three patients were eligible. Twenty-six patients with >90% reperfusion show a high correlation between early DWI volume and final infarct volume (
r
=0.95;
P
<0.001). Nine patients with <10% reperfusion have a high correlation between baseline PWI (Tmax >6 seconds) volume and final infarct volume (
r
=0.86;
P
=0.002). Using all 73 patients, the union of baseline DWI and early follow-up PWI is highly correlated with final infarct volume (
r
=0.94;
P
<0.001). The median absolute difference between observed and predicted final volumes is 15 mL (interquartile range, 5.5–30.2).

Conclusions—

Baseline DWI and early follow-up PWI (Tmax >6 seconds) volumes provide a reasonable approximation of final infarct volume after endovascular therapy.
Harmony between Arkhē and Telos in Patristic Platonism and the Imagery of Astronomical Harmony Applied to Apokatastasis
Authors: Ramelli Ilaria
Published: February 2013

Abstract

This study investigates the idea of harmony as a protological and eschatological principle in three outstanding Patristic philosophers, well steeped in the Platonic tradition: Origen, Gregory Nyssen, and Evagrius. All of them attached an extraordinary importance to harmony, homonoia, and unity in the arkhē and, even more, in the telos. This ideal is opposed to the disagreement/dispersion of rational creatures’ acts of volition after their fall and before the eventual apokatastasis. These Christian Platonists are among the strongest supporters of the final universal restoration. Their reflection on the unity-multiplicity dialectic, which parallels that between harmony and disorder/discord/dissonance, is informed by the Platonic tradition. In Gregory, the idea of harmony assumes musical connotations, especially in relation to the telos.

In this connection, I examine the relationship between their notion of harmony in the arkhē and telos and Plotinus’ concept of harmony. Plotinus was well known to Gregory, the author of a Christianized version of Plato’s Phaedo in which apokatastasis is prominent. Origen, whose readings included many Middle-Platonic and Neo-Pythagorean texts, in Alexandria attended the classes of the “proto-Neoplatonist” Ammonius, who was also Plotinus’ teacher. A wide-ranging methodical investigation of the relation between Origen’s and Plotinus’ philosophical thoughts is still a notable desideratum.

Finally, I concentrate on the concept of harmony in astronomy as a metaphor for intellectual harmony and apokatastasis in Patristic Platonism, especially in Evagrius’ Kephalaia Gnōstika. The noun apokatastasis was used in an astronomical sense, and employed in Stoicism for the conclusion of a cosmic cycle. Evagrius, who loved astronomical metaphors, focussed a kephalaion on a wordplay—which escaped Guillaumont and all other scholars—concerning the astronomical meaning of apokatastasis, thus embedding his theory of the eventual restoration in an allegorical framework that rests on a notion of astronomical harmony. A strong case is made in this connection that Evagrius was elaborating on Plato’s pivotal link between cosmological (astronomical) and intellectual harmony, and was aware that the Stoic theory of cosmological apokatastasis drew on Plato.
Changing Interpretations of Plotinus: The 18th-Century Introduction of the Concept of a ‘System of Philosophy’
Authors: Catana Leo
Published: February 2013

Abstract

This article critically explores the history and nature of a hermeneutic assumption which frequently guided interpretations of Plotinus from the 18th century onwards, namely that Plotinus advanced a system of philosophy. It is argued that this assumption was introduced relatively late, in the 18th and 19th centuries, and that it was primarily made possible by Brucker’s methodology for the history of philosophy, dating from the 1740s, to which the concept of a ‘system of philosophy’ was essential. It is observed that the concept is absent from Ficino’s commentary from the 15th century, and that it remained absent in interpretations produced between the 15th and 18th centuries. It is also argued that the assumption of a ‘system of philosophy’ in Plotinus is historically incorrect—we do not find this concept in Plotinus’ writings, and his own statements about method point in other directions.

Eduard Zeller (active in the second half of the 19th century) is typically regarded as the first to give a satisfying account of Plotinus’ philosophy as a whole. In this article, on the other hand, Zeller is seen as having finalised a tradition initiated in the 18th century. Very few Plotinus scholars have examined the interpretative development prior to Zeller. Schiavone (1952) and Bonetti (1971), for instance, have given little attention to Brucker’s introduction of the concept of a ‘system of philosophy’. The present analysis, then, has value for an understanding of Plotinus’ Enneads. It also explains why “pre-Bruckerian” interpretations of Plotinus appear alien to the modern reader; the analysis may even serve to make some sense of the hermeneutics employed by Renaissance Platonists and commentators, who are often eclipsed from the tradition of Platonism.
Democratizing Investment Laws: Ensuring ‘Minimum Standards’ for Host States
Authors: Mahmood Nida
Published: February 2013

The ad hoc development of international investment law has resulted in catering to the needs of capital exporting states. However, owing to the weaker bargaining power of the then newly independent capital importing states, no comparable internationally recognized standards of minimum protection of national interests from foreign firms could be formulated, even though such firms today are known to have a profound impact on local economies because of the extensive protection and power they yield through lopsided BITs and other general customary standards of treatment of foreign investment. This paper is therefore an attempt to develop and advocate a new ‘national minimum standard of protection’ in investment law that focuses particularly on the rights of the host states to regulate their economies and to protect their nationals on the basis of a social contract between the State and the individual.
A revision of the Egyptian species of the genus Actorthia Kröber (Diptera: Therevidae: Phycinae)
Authors: BADRAWY HAITHAM B. M. , MOHAMMAD SALWA K.
Published: February 2013

The genus Actorthia Kröber, 1912 was described based on a single female from Tourrah (Egypt) and is revised for the first time since the original description. Actorthia khedivialis (Becker, 1912) is newly synonymized with A. frontata (Kröber, 1912) based on examination of the type specimens of both species recently discovered in the Cairo University Collection (Egypt) and Natural History Museum (Austria), respectively. Actorthia efflatouni Kröber, 1925 is confirmed as a synonym of A. micans (Kröber, 1923) and Actorthia olivierii (Macquart, 1840) is transferred to Phycus. Actorthia pulchella Kröber, 1927 is recorded in Israel for the first time. The three Egyptian species of Actorthia are diagnosed and illustrated along with colour images of the type specimens, and a key to the Egyptian species is included.
The discovery of the rare genus Epimicta Foerster (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) in China, with a description of a new species
Authors: ZHENG MIN-LIN , CHEN JIA-HUA , ACHTERBERG C. VAN
Published: February 2013

Epimicta sulciscutum sp. nov. fromHeilongjiang (North China) is described and illustrated. A key to species of the genus is provided.
Stalacris Desutter-Grandcolas n. gen., an amazing cricket from South Africa (Orthoptera, Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae)
Authors: DESUTTER-GRANDCOLAS LAURE
Published: February 2013

Stalacris n. gen. (Insecta, Grylloidea, Phalangopsidae) is described from South Africa using characters of morphology and male genitalia. This taxon, known from only two species, Stalacris meridionalis n. gen., n. sp. and Stalacris sp, is characterized by the unique structure of its forewings. These are prolonged distally as long, acute and more or less artic-ulated processes, forming a kind of forceps when forewings are opened.
The Frequency of 4 Common Gene Polymorphisms in Nonagenarians, Centenarians, and Average Life Span Individuals
Authors: Kolovou Genovefa , Kolovou Vana , Vasiliadis Ioannis , Giannakopoulou Vasiliki , Mihas Constantinos , Bilianou Helen , Kollia Aikaterini , Papadopoulou Evaggelia , Marvaki Apostolia , Goumas Georgos , Kalogeropoulos Petros , Limperi Sotiria , Katsiki Niki , Mavrogeni Sophie
Published: February 2013

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) such as rs1799752, nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) such as rs28362491 and cholesteryl ester transport protein (CETP) such as rs708272 ( TaqB1) and rs5882 (I405V) were evaluated in nonagenarians, centenarians, and average life span individuals (controls). The study population (n = 307; 190 nonagenarians, 12 centenarians and 105 middle-aged controls) was genotyped for ACE, NFkB, and CETP genetic variants. The age of nonagenarian and centenarian group ranged between 90 and 111 years; centenarians and controls age ranged from 99 to 111, and from 18 to 80 years, respectively. The I carriers of ACE I/D gene were fewer in nonagenarians compared to centenarians (37.6% vs 62.5%, P = .016). The I carriers of ACE gene were more frequent in centenarians compared to controls (62% vs 41%, P = .045). No differences in frequency of common NFkB and CETP genotypes between patients with exceptional longevity and middle-aged patients were observed.