bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Harvest Date on the Chemical Composition of Patauá (Oenocarpus batauaMart.) Fruits from a Forest Reserve in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Souza Raimundo Silva de , Andrade Jerusa Souza , Costa Suely de Souza
Published: May 2012

This study aims to evaluate the effect of harvest date on the chemical composition of patauá (Oenocarpus batauaMart.). Fruits were harvested monthly during the harvest season (June–December, 2009) from native plants in the Adolpho Ducke Forest Reserve located in Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. The patauá was assessed for pulp yield and chemical composition. Variations in the bunch size, quantity of fruits, chemical constituents and calories occur throughout the season. The pulp yield showed two plateaus, the first from June to September and the second from October to December. The pulp yield was highest in the last three months, the amount of added water equilibrates the total solids and the lipids stood out as the major chemical constituent. At the end of harvest, the patauá became dry and oily and less fibrous. Despite the significant differences, considering that the pulp yield and solids content can be standardized by added water, the entire period of the season may be indicated for the patauá can be periodically collected and considered as a high-energy food for the people of Amazon.
Strategy for Designing Self‐Assembling Peptides to Prepare Transparent Nanofiber Hydrogel at Neutral pH
Authors: Yokoi Hidenori , Kinoshita Takatoshi
Published: May 2012

This study examined the formation of nanofiber hydrogels at neutral pH for 16 types of peptides with different net charges, hydrophobicities, and degrees of polymerization. The peptides formed various hydrogels depending on the arrangement of charged amino acids in the antiparallel β‐sheet structure. Circular dichroism (CD) measurement, atomic force microscopy (AFM), visible light spectroscopy, and dynamic viscoelasticity measurement showed that the formation of transparent nanofiber hydrogels in peptides requires at least 2 additional positively or negatively charged amino acids per peptide. When designing the amino acid sequence, it is important to consider both the net charge and position of the charged amino acids, and it should be ensured that basic amino acids do not face other basic ones in the antiparallel β‐sheet structure. Peptides that had charged amino acids clustered at the center of the nanofiber formed rigid gels.
Poly(ester amide)-Poly(ethylene oxide) Graft Copolymers: Towards Micellar Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Zilinskas Gregory J. , Soleimani Abdolrasoul , Gillies Elizabeth R.
Published: May 2012

Micelles formed from amphiphilic copolymers are promising materials for the delivery of drug molecules, potentially leading to enhanced biological properties and efficacy. In this work, new poly(ester amide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEA-PEO) graft copolymers were synthesized and their assembly into micelles in aqueous solution was investigated. It was possible to tune the sizes of the micelles by varying the PEO content of the polymers and the method of micelle preparation. Under optimized conditions, it was possible to obtain micelles with diameters less than 100 nm as measured by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. These micelles were demonstrated to encapsulate and release a model drug, Nile Red, and were nontoxic to HeLa cells as measured by an MTT assay. Overall, the properties of these micelles suggest that they are promising new materials for drug delivery systems.
The 2011 WPATH Standards of Care and Penile Reconstruction in Female-to-Male Transsexual Individuals
Authors: Selvaggi Gennaro , Dhejne Cecilia , Landen Mikael , Elander Anna
Published: May 2012

The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) currently publishes the Standards of Care (SOC), to provide clinical guidelines for health care of transsexual, transgender and gender non-conforming persons in order to maximize health and well-being by revealing gender dysphoria. An updated version (7th version, 2011) of the WPATH SOC is currently available. Differences between the 6th and the 7th versions of the SOC are shown; the SOC relevant to penile reconstruction in female-to-male (FtM) persons are emphasized, and we analyze how the 2011 WPATH SOC is influencing the daily practice of physicians involved in performing a penile reconstruction procedure for these patients. Depending by an individual’s goals and expectations, the most appropriate surgical technique should be performed: the clinic performing penile reconstruction should be able to offer the whole range of techniques, such as: metoidioplasty, pedicle and free flaps phalloplasty procedures. The goals that physicians and health care institutions should achieve in the next years, in order to improve the care of female-to-male persons, consist in: informing in details the individuals applying for penile reconstruction about all the implications; referring specific individuals to centers capable to deliver a particular surgical technique; implementing the surgery with the most updated refinements.
Posterior Circulation Stroke: Animal Models and Mechanism of Disease
Authors: Lekic Tim , Ani Chizobam
Published: May 2012

Posterior circulation stroke refers to the vascular occlusion or bleeding, arising from the vertebrobasilar vasculature of the brain. Clinical studies show that individuals who experience posterior circulation stroke will develop significant brain injury, neurologic dysfunction, or death. Yet the therapeutic needs of this patient subpopulation remain largely unknown. Thus understanding the causative factors and the pathogenesis of brain damage is important, if posterior circulation stroke is to be prevented or treated. Appropriate animal models are necessary to achieve this understanding. This paper critically integrates the neurovascular and pathophysiological features gleaned from posterior circulation stroke animal models into clinical correlations.
Correlation between Quantumchemically Calculated LUMO Energies and the Electrochemical Window of Ionic Liquids with Reduction-Resistant Anions
Authors: Buijs Wim , Witkamp Geert-Jan , Kroon Maaike C.
Published: May 2012

Quantum chemical calculations showed to be an excellent method to predict the electrochemical window of ionic liquids with reduction-resistant anions. A good correlation between the LUMO energy and the electrochemical window is observed. Surprisingly simple but very fast semiempirical calculations are in full record with density functional theory calculations and are a very attractive tool in the design and optimization of ionic liquids for specific purposes.
Factor V Leiden and Inflammation
Authors: Perez-Pujol Silvia , Aras Omer , Escolar Gines
Published: May 2012

Factor V Leiden, is a variant of human factor V (FV), also known as proaccelerin, which leads to a hypercoagulable state. Along these years, factor V Leiden (FVL) has been studied from the pathophysiologic point of view, and research has been focused on finding clinical approaches for the management of the FVL associated to a trombophilic state. Less attention has been paid about the possible role of FVL in inflammatory conditions known to be present in different disorders such as uremia, cirrhosis, liver transplantation, depression as well as sepsis, infection or, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Whether platelet FVL will increase the activation of coagulation and/or in which proportion is able to determine the final outcome in the previously mentioned inflammatory conditions is a subject that remains uncertain. This paper will review the association of FVL with inflammation. Specifically, it will analyze the important role of the endothelium and the contribution of other inflammatory components involved at both the immune and vascular levels. This paper will also try to emphasize the importance of being a FVL carrier in associations to diseases where a chronic inflammation occurs, and how this condition may be determinant in the progression and outcome of a specific clinic situation.
Usefulness of Faecal Calprotectin Measurement in Children with Various Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Komraus Marzena , Wos Halina , Wiecek Sabina , Kajor Maciej , Grzybowska-Chlebowczyk Urszula
Published: May 2012

Introduction. The aim of the study was to assess the usefulness of the FC measurement in children with various types of IBD and relation to the disease activity.Patients and Methods. 91 patients (49 boys: 53.85% and 42 girls: 46.15%, mean age: 13.38 years, range 6–18 years) were included in the analysis. Patients were divided into the groups: B1—24 children with CD, B2—16 patients with UC, and a group comprising 31 children with other types of colitis; the control group (K) comprised 20 healthy children. FC was assayed by ELISA method, using Phical test (Calpro).Results. The mean faecal calprotectin concentrations were higher in children with CD and UC as compared to healthy controls, patients with eosinophilic, lymphocytic, and nonspecific colitis. A positive correlation was observed between FC concentrations and the disease activity (the PCDAI scale, the Truelove-Witts Scale, and the endoscopic Rachmilewitz Index).Conclusion. It seems that the FC concentrations can be a useful, safe, and noninvasive test in children suspected for IBD, since FC concentration is higher in children with CD and UC than in patients with other inflammatory diseases.
Traumatic Brain Injury, Microglia, and Beta Amyloid
Authors: Mannix Rebekah C. , Whalen Michael J.
Published: May 2012

Recently, there has been growing interest in the association between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). TBI and AD share many pathologic features including chronic inflammation and the accumulation of beta amyloid (Aβ). Data from both AD and TBI studies suggest that microglia play a central role in Aβaccumulation after TBI. This paper focuses on the current research on the role of microglia response to Aβafter TBI.
Development and Validation of Dissolution Test for Fluconazole Capsules by HPLC and Derivative UV Spectrophotometry
Authors: Corrêa Josilene Chaves Ruela , Duarte Vianna-Soares Cristina , Salgado Hérida Regina Nunes
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a dissolution test for fluconazole, an antifungal used for the treatment of superficial, cutaneous, and cutaneomucous infections caused by Candida species, in capsules dosage form. Techniques by HPLC and UV first derivative spectrophotometry (UV-FDS) were selected for quantitative evaluation. In the development of release profile, several conditions were evaluated. Dissolution test parameters were considered appropriate when a most discriminative release profile for fluconazole capsules was yielded. Dissolution test conditions for fluconazole capsules were 900 mL of HCl 0.1 M, 37 ± 0.5 °C using baskets with 50 rpm for 30 min of test. The developed HPLC and UV-FDS methods for the antifungal evaluation were selective and met requirements for an appropriate and validated method, according to ICH and USP requirements. Both methods can be useful in the registration process of new drugs or their renewal. For routine analysis application cost, simplicity, equipment, solvents, speed, and application to large or small workloads should be observed.
Interpretation of Local Flux Measurements in Subcritical Systems and Reactivity Determination
Authors: Dulla S. , Ravetto P.
Published: May 2012

The determination of the subcriticality level constitutes an important issue in the assessment of the accelerator-driven system technology. For this purpose, the interpretation of flux measurements requires a lumped-parameter model employed in an inverse fashion. This papers addresses the drawbacks of point kinetics in performing such a task. In particular, the problem of the generation of integral parameters is considered, in connection with the use of a shape function and of a projection weight tailored to the neutron flux detector. Furthermore, the question of the generation of the effective source is analysed, and some proposals to modify the time dependence of such a function to account for the time delay at the flux detector are presented and discussed.
Evaluation of Distinct Freezing Methods and Cryoprotectants for Human Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells Cryopreservation
Authors: Janz Felipe de Lara , Debes Adriana de Aguiar , Cavaglieri Rita de Cássia , Duarte Sérgio Aloísio , Romão Carolina Martinez , Morón Antonio Fernandes , Zugaib Marcelo , Bydlowski Sérgio Paulo
Published: May 2012

Amniotic fluid (AF) was described as a potential source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for biomedicine purposes. Therefore, evaluation of alternative cryoprotectants and freezing protocols capable to maintain the viability and stemness of these cells after cooling is still needed. AF stem cells (AFSCs) were tested for different freezing methods and cryoprotectants. Cell viability, gene expression, surface markers, and plasticity were evaluated after thawing. AFSCs expressed undifferentiated genes Oct4 and Nanog; presented typical markers (CD29, CD44, CD90, and CD105) and were able to differentiate into mesenchymal lineages. All tested cryoprotectants preserved the features of AFSCs however, variations in cell viability were observed. In this concern, dimethyl sulfoxide (Me2SO) showed the best results. The freezing protocols tested did not promote significant changes in the AFSCs viability. Time programmed and nonprogrammed freezing methods could be used for successful AFSCs cryopreservation for 6 months. Although tested cryoprotectants maintained undifferentiated gene expression, typical markers, and plasticity of AFSCs, only Me2SO and glycerol presented workable viability ratios.
Adrenocortical and Adipose Responses to High-Altitude-Induced, Long-Term Hypoxia in the Ovine Fetus
Authors: Myers Dean A. , Ducsay Charles A.
Published: May 2012

By late gestation, the maturing hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis aids the fetus in responding to stress. Hypoxia represents a significant threat to the fetus accompanying situations such as preeclampsia, smoking, high altitude, and preterm labor. We developed a model of high-altitude (3,820 m), long-term hypoxia (LTH) in pregnant sheep. We describe the impact of LTH on the fetal HPA axis at the level of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), anterior pituitary corticotrope, and adrenal cortex. At the PVN and anterior pituitary, the responses to LTH are consistent with hypoxia being a potent activator of the HPA axis and potentially maladaptive, while the adrenocortical response to LTH appears to be primarily adaptive. We discuss mechanisms involved in the delicate balance between these seemingly opposing responses that preserve the normal ontogenic rise in fetal plasma cortisol essential for organ maturation and in this species, birth. Further, we examine the response to, and ramifications of, an acute secondary stressor in the LTH fetus. We provide an integrative model on the potential role of adipose in modulating these responses to LTH. Integration of these adaptive responses to LTH plays a key role in promoting normal fetal growth and development under conditions of a chronic stress.
Construction of Affine Invariant Functions in Spatial Domain
Authors: Yang Jianwei , Chen Yunjie , Scalia Massimo
Published: May 2012

Affine invariant functions are constructed in spatial domain. Unlike the previous affine representation functions in transform domain, these functions are constructed directly on the object contour without any transformation. To eliminate the effect of the choice of points on the contour, an affine invariant function using seven points on the contour is constructed. For objects with several separable components, a closed curve is derived to construct the affine invariant functions. Several experiments have been conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the constructed affine invariant functions can be used for object classification.
Cyclooxygenase Inhibition in Sepsis: Is There Life after Death?
Authors: Aronoff David M.
Published: May 2012

Prostaglandins are important mediators and modulators of the inflammatory response to infection. The prostaglandins participate in the pathogenesis of hemodynamic collapse, organ failure, and overwhelming inflammation that characterize severe sepsis and shock. In light of this, cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibiting pharmacological agents have been extensively studied for their capacity to ameliorate the aberrant physiological and immune responses during severe sepsis. Animal models of sepsis, using the systemic administration of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or live pathogens, have been used to examine the effectiveness of COX inhibition as a treatment for severe sepsis. These studies have largely shown beneficial effects on mortality. However, human studies have failed to show clinical utility of COX inhibitor treatment in severely septic patients. Why this approach “worked” in animals but not in humans might reflect differences in the controlled nature of animal investigations compared to human studies. This paper contrasts the impact of COX inhibitors on mortality in animal models of sepsis and human studies of sepsis and examines potential reasons for differences between these two settings.
Morphologic and Pharmacological Investigations in the Epicatechin Gastroprotective Effect
Authors: Rozza A. L. , Hiruma-Lima C. A. , Tanimoto A. , Pellizzon C. H.
Published: May 2012

Previous studies of the gastroprotective activity of plants have highlighted the importance of the polyphenolic compound epicatechin (EC) in the treatment of gastric ulcers. This paper aimed to evaluate and characterize the gastroprotective mechanism of action of EC using male rats. The gastroprotective action of EC was analyzed in gastric ulcers induced by ethanol or indomethacin. The involvement of sulfhydryl (SH) groups,K+ATPchannels,α2adrenoceptors, gastric antisecretory activity, and the amount of mucus in the development of gastric ulcers were investigated. The lowest effective dose of EC providing gastroprotective effects was 50 mg/kg in the ethanol-induced gastric ulcers and 25 mg/kg in the indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers. The gastroprotection seen upon treatment with EC was significantly decreased in rats pretreated with a SH compound reagent or anα2-receptor antagonist, but not with aK+ATPchannel blocker. Furthermore, oral treatment with EC increased mucus production and decreased H+secretion. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the involvement of superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), and heat shock protein-70 (HSP-70) in the gastroprotection. These results demonstrate that EC provides gastroprotection through reinforcement of the mucus barrier and neutralization of gastric juice and this protection occurs through the involvement of SH compounds,α2-adrenoceptors, NO, SOD, and HSP-70.
Regulation of Leukemic Cell Differentiation through the Vitamin D Receptor at the Levels of Intracellular Signal Transduction, Gene Transcription, and Protein Trafficking and Stability
Authors: Gocek Elżbieta , Baurska Hanna , Marchwicka Aleksandra , Marcinkowska Ewa
Published: May 2012

1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3(1,25(OH)2D) exerts its biological activities through vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is a member of the superfamily of steroid receptors, that act as ligand-dependent transcription factors. Ligated VDR in complex with retinoid X receptor (RXR) binds to regulatory regions of 1,25(OH)2D-target genes. 1,25(OH)2D is able to induce differentiation of leukemic blasts towards macrophage-like cells. Many different acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines respond to 1,25(OH)2D by increasing CD14 cell surface receptor, some additionally upregulate CD11b and CD11c integrins. In untreated AML cells VDR protein is present in cytosol at a very low level, even though its mRNA is continuously expressed. Ligation of VDR causes protein stabilization and translocation to the cell nuclei, where it regulates transcription of target genes. Several important groups of genes are regulated by 1,25(OH)2D in HL60 cells. These genes include differentiation-related genes involved in macrophage function, as well as a gene regulating degradation of 1,25(OH)2D, namely CYP24A1. We summarize here the data which demonstrate that though some cellular responses to 1,25(OH)2D in AML cells are transcription-dependent, there are many others which depend on intracellular signal transduction, protein trafficking and stabilization. The final effect of 1,25(OH)2D action in leukemic cells requires all these acting together.
The Use of Split-Thickness Skin Grafts on Diabetic Foot Ulcerations: A Literature Review
Authors: McCartan Brant , Dinh Thanh
Published: May 2012

Diabetic foot ulcerations are historically difficult to treat despite advanced
therapeutic modalities. There are numerous modalities described in the literature ranging
from noninvasive topical wound care to more invasive surgical procedures such as
primary closure, skin flaps, and skin grafting. While skin grafting provides faster time to
closure with a single treatment compared to traditional topical wound treatments, the
potential risks of donor site morbidity and poor wound healing unique to the diabetic
state have been cited as a contraindication to its widespread use. In order to garner
clarity on this issue, a literature review was undertaken on the use of split-thickness skin
grafts on diabetic foot ulcers. Search of electronic databases yielded four studies that
reported split-thickness skin grafts as definitive means of closure. In addition, several
other studies employed split-thickness skin grafts as an adjunct to a treatment that was
only partially successful or used to fill in the donor site of another plastic surgery
technique. When used as the primary closure on optimized diabetic foot ulcerations,
split-thickness skin grafts are 78% successful at closing 90% of the wound by eight weeks.
Electrospun Borneol‐PVP Nanocomposites
Authors: Li Xiao-Yan , Wang Xia , Yu Deng-Guang , Ye Shuai , Kuang Qi-Kun , Yi Qing-Wen , Yao Xin-Zhe
Published: May 2012

The present work investigates the validity of electrospun borneol‐polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanocomposites in enhancing drug dissolution rates and improving drug physical stability. Based on hydrogen bonding interactions and via an electrospinning process, borneol and PVP can form stable nanofiber‐based composites. FESEM observations demonstrate that composite nanofibers with uniform structure could be generated with a high content of borneol up to 33.3% (w/w). Borneol is well distributed in the PVP matrix molecularly to form the amorphous composites, as verified by DSC and XRD results. The composites can both enhance the dissolution profiles of borneol and increase its physical stability against sublimation for long‐time storage by immobilization of borneol molecules with PVP. The incorporation of borneol in the PVP matrix weakens the tensile properties of nanofibers, and the mechanism is discussed. Electrospun nanocomposites can be alternative candidates for developing novel nano‐drug delivery systems with high performance.
Home Availability and the Impact of Weekly Stressful Events Are Associated with Fruit and Vegetable Intake among African American and Hispanic/Latina Women
Authors: Ledoux Tracey A. , Mama Scherezade K. , O'Connor Daniel P. , Adamus Heather , Fraser Margaret L. , Lee Rebecca E.
Published: May 2012

Background. Mediating and moderating variables may interfere with the association between neighborhood availability of grocery stores (NAG) and supermarkets (NAS) and fruit and vegetable (FV) intake.Objective. The purpose of this study was to test mediation of home availability of FV (HAFV) and moderation of impact of weekly stressful events (IWSE) on the association between NAG and NAS with FV consumption among African American (AA) and Hispanic/Latina (HL) women.Methods. Three hundred nine AA and HL, 25–60 year old women in the Health Is Power (HIP) randomized controlled trial completed validated measures of HAFV, IWSE, and FV intake at baseline. Trained field assessors coded NAG and NAS. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained.Results. NAG and NAS were not associated with FV intake or HAFV, so HAFV was not a mediator. HAFV (std. Beta = .29,P<0.001) and IWSE (std. Beta = .17;P<0.05) were related to FV intake (R2  =0.17;P<0.001), but IWSE was not a moderator.Conclusion. Increasing HAFV and decreasing the IWSE should increase FV consumption. The extent to which the neighborhood environment is related to the home food environment and diet, and the mechanisms for the association between IWSE and diet should be examined in future research.
A Short-Term Advantage for Syngamy in the Origin of Eukaryotic Sex: Effects of Cell Fusion on Cell Cycle Duration and Other Effects Related to the Duration of the Cell Cycle—Relationship between Cell Growth Curve and the Optimal Size of the Species, and Circadian Cell Cycle in Photosynthetic Unicellular Organisms
Authors: Mancebo Quintana J. M. , Mancebo Quintana S.
Published: May 2012

The origin of sex is becoming a vexatious issue for Evolutionary Biology. Numerous hypotheses have been proposed, based on the genetic effects of sex, on trophic effects or on the formation of cysts and syncytia. Our approach addresses the change in cell cycle duration which would cause cell fusion. Several results are obtained through graphical and mathematical analysis and computer simulations. (1) In poor environments, cell fusion would be an advantageous strategy, as fusion between cells of different size shortens the cycle of the smaller cell (relative to the asexual cycle), and the majority of mergers would occur between cells of different sizes. (2) The easiest-to-evolve regulation of cell proliferation (sexual/asexual) would be by modifying the checkpoints of the cell cycle. (3) A regulation of this kind would have required the existence of the G2 phase, and sex could thus be the cause of the appearance of this phase. Regarding cell cycle, (4) the exponential curve is the only cell growth curve that has no effect on the optimal cell size in unicellular species; (5) the existence of a plateau with no growth at the end of the cell cycle explains the circadian cell cycle observed in unicellular algae.
Investigation on the Microstructure, Texture and Magnetostriction of Directionally Solidified Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.95−xVx Alloys
Authors: Arout Chelvane J. , Palit Mithun , Basumatary Himalay , Banumathy S. , Singh A. K. , Pandian S.
Published: May 2012

Effect of V addition on the microstructure and magnetostriction of directionally solidified Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.95 has been investigated. The microstructure of V added alloys (Tb0.3Dy0.7Fe1.95−xVx with x=0, 0.025, 0.05, and 0.075) indicate that Fe-50 at.% V is formed as primary phase, which subsequently undergoes spinodal decomposition. The spinodially decomposed Fe-rich phase reacts with the liquid and forms the matrix phase, (Tb,Dy)Fe2. The V-rich spinodally decomposed product, on the other hand, exists as remnant phase without undergoing any metallurgical transformation. Texture studies indicate that the grains of (Tb,Dy)Fe2 show
〈110〉/rotated 〈110〉 and 〈112〉 orientations for all compositions investigated in the directionally solidified condition. An improvement in magnetostriction has been noticed for small addition of V (x=0.025) and with further addition the magnetostrictive property decreases. The formation of additional phases containing vanadium is attributed to be the reason when V is added in higher concentration (x>0.025) levels.
Automatic and Rapid Discrimination of Cotton Genotypes by Near Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Cui Hai-Feng , Ye Zi-Hong , Xu Lu , Fu Xian-Shu , Fan Cui-Wen , Yu Xiao-Ping
Published: May 2012

This paper reports the application of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and pattern recognition methods to rapid and automatic discrimination of the genotypes (parent, transgenic, and parent-transgenic hybrid) of cotton plants. Diffuse reflectance NIR spectra of representative cotton seeds (n=120) and leaves (n=123) were measured in the range of 4000–12000 cm−1. A practical problem when developing classification models is the degradation and even breakdown of models caused by outliers. Considering the high-dimensional nature and uncertainty of potential spectral outliers, robust principal component analysis (rPCA) was applied to each separate sample group to detect and exclude outliers. The influence of different data preprocessing methods on model prediction performance was also investigated. The results demonstrate that rPCA can effectively detect outliers and maintain the efficiency of discriminant analysis. Moreover, the classification accuracy can be significantly improved by second-order derivative and standard normal variate (SNV). The best partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) models obtained total classification accuracy of 100% and 97.6% for seeds and leaves, respectively.
Intensive Treatment of Cellulite Based on Physiopathological Principles
Authors: de Godoy José Maria Pereira , Groggia Mayra Yara , Ferro Laks Lucilene , Guerreiro de Godoy Maria de Fátima
Published: May 2012

Aim. The aim of this paper is to report a novel intensive therapy of gynoid lipodystrophy (cellulite) based on a new hypothesis.Methods. Were evaluated in 10 patients with ages ranging between 25 and 59 years (mean 35.6 years) grade IV cellulite identified by clinical evaluation. Before initiating treatment, perimetry was performed at 5 cm intervals along both thighs, at the gluteal fold, 5, 10, and 15 cm above the gluteal fold, at the navel, and 5 cm above the navel. The patients were submitted to a 4-hour daily treatment session that consisted of manual and mechanical lymph drainage and cervical stimulation by the Godoy & Godoy technique adapted for the treatment of cellulite. After 10 sessions over two weeks, the patients were again evaluated. The pairedt-test was utilized for statistical analysis with an alpha error of 5% (Pvalue < 0.05). A reduction was identified at all of the measurement points (pairedt-test;Pvalue < 0.0001).Results. The mean reductions varied between 4.0 and 5.7 cm at the measurement points but reductions of more than 10 cm in perimeter were achieved in some patients.Conclusion. This technique involving lymphatic system stimulation is efficacious in the treatment of cellulite.
Predictive Molecular Tumour Testing: What Are the Obstacles between Bench and Bedside?
Authors: Mileshkin Linda , Shah Bhaumik , Michael Michael
Published: May 2012

There have been many exciting new breakthroughs in understanding tumour biology. This has opened up the possibility of personalized treatment for people with certain tumours. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and K-ras are two such targets that can help classify tumours on a molecular basis and guide treatment decisions. However, there are still questions about how best to implement new molecular tests like these to characterize tumours in clinical practice. Potential obstacles include availability of good quality tissue specimens, access to the right test, and consensus about interpretation, funding, and availability. In this paper, we review these issues, by discussing these two examples in detail and suggest some actions for addressing potential barriers.
Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Imparting Antimicrobial and UV Protection to Cotton Fabric
Authors: AbdElhady M. M.
Published: May 2012

Synthesis of chitosan/ZnO nanoparticles was performed using different concentrations of ZnO at different temperatures. Nanoparticles of ZnO/chitosan were prepared in rod form with average length 60 nm and average width 5–15 nm. Thus, obtained nanoparticles of ZnO/chitosan were characterized using UV spectrophotometer, FTIR, TEM, X-ray, and SEM. Size and shape of chitosan/ZnO nanoparticles relied on conditions of their synthesis. Notably, chitosan/ZnO in rod form with average length of 60 nm and average width 5–15 nm could be achieved. Application of chitosan/ZnO nanoparticles to cotton fabric conferred on the latter antibacterial and UV protection properties. Cotton fabric was characterized using SEM, ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating, and antibacterial (gram-positive and gram-negative) characteristics. Finished cotton fabric exhibited good antibacterial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The UV testes indicated a significant improvement in UV protection of finished cotton fabric which is increasing by increasing the concentration of nanoparticles of ZnO/chitosan.
Phytoestrogens in Human Pregnancy
Authors: Jarrell John , Foster Warren G. , Kinniburgh David W.
Published: May 2012

Background. The hormonal milieu associated with pregnancy has become a focus of interest owing to potential links with the developmental origins of health and disease. Phytoestrogens are hormonally active plant-derived chemicals that may have an impact on human reproductive processes. However, developmental exposure to phytoestrogens has not been well characterized and thus our objective was to quantify phytoestrogen exposure during pregnancy and lactation.Methods. Women in the second trimester of pregnancy entered the study during counseling for prenatal genetic information. Women who had an indication for a genetic amniocentesis on the basis of late maternal age were approached for inclusion. They completed an environmental questionnaire; a sample of amniotic fluid was collected for karyotype, blood was collected from women during pregnancy and at birth, from the umbilical cord and breast milk. Samples were tested for the presence of daidzein and genistein by GC Mass Spectroscopy.Findings. Phytoestrogens are commonly found in pregnant women’s serum and amniotic fluid during pregnancy. There is a sex difference in the concentrations with higher levels in amniotic fluid containing female fetuses. This difference was not present in maternal serum. Soy ingestion increases amniotic fluid phytoestrogen concentrations in female and male fetuses. The presence and concentrations of phytoestrogens did not differ in relation to common pregnancy complications or preexisting infertility.
Innovative Approaches to Regenerate Enamel and Dentin
Authors: Chatzistavrou Xanthippi , Papagerakis Silvana , Ma Peter X. , Papagerakis Petros
Published: May 2012

The process of tooth mineralization and the role of molecular control of cellular behavior during embryonic tooth development have attracted much attention the last few years. The knowledge gained from the research in these fields has improved the general understanding about the formation of dental tissues and the entire tooth and set the basis for teeth regeneration. Tissue engineering using scaffold and cell aggregate methods has been considered to produce bioengineered dental tissues, while dental stem/progenitor cells, which can differentiate into dental cell lineages, have been also introduced into the field of tooth mineralization and regeneration. Some of the main strategies for making enamel, dentin, and complex tooth-like structures are presented in this paper. However, there are still significant barriers that obstruct such strategies to move into the regular clinic practice, and these should be overcome in order to have the regenerative dentistry as the important mean that can treat the consequences of tooth-related diseases.
Interaction between Mu and Delta Opioid Receptor Agonists in an Assay of Capsaicin-Induced Thermal Allodynia in Rhesus Monkeys
Authors: Negus S. Stevens , Morrissey Ember M. , Folk John E. , Rice Kenner C.
Published: May 2012

Delta opioid agonists enhance antinociceptive effects of mu-opioid agonists in many preclinical assays of acute nociception, but delta/mu interactions in preclinical models of inflammation-associated pain have not been examined. This study examined interactions between the delta agonist SNC80 [(+)-4-[(αR)-α-((2S,5R)-4-allyl-2,5-dimethyl-1-piperazinyl)-3-methoxybenzyl]-N,N-diethylbenzamide] and the mu agonist analgesics methadone, morphine, and nalbuphine in an assay of capsaicin-induced thermal allodynia in rhesus monkeys. Thermal allodynia was produced by topical application of capsaicin to the tail. Antiallodynic effects of methadone, morphine, and nalbuphine were evaluated alone or in combination with fixed proportions of SNC80 identical to proportions previously shown to enhance acute thermal antinociceptive effects of these mu agonists in rhesus monkeys (0.9 : 1 SNC80/methadone; 0.29 : 1 SNC80/morphine; 3.6 : 1 SNC80/nalbuphine). Methadone, morphine, and nalbuphine each produced dose-dependent antiallodynia. SNC80 produced partial antiallodynia up to the highest dose tested (5.6 mg/kg). SNC80 produced a modest, enantioselective, and naltrindole-reversible enhancement of methadone-induced antiallodynia. However, SNC80 did not enhance morphine antiallodynia and only weakly enhanced nalbuphine antiallodynia. Overall, SNC80 produced modest or no enhancement of the antiallodynic effects of the three mu agonists evaluated. These results suggest that delta agonist-induced enhancement of mu agonist antiallodynia may be weaker and less reliable than previously demonstrated enhancement of mu agonist acute thermal nociception.
Development of Optophone with No Diaphragm and Application to Sound Measurement in Jet Flow
Authors: Sonoda Yoshito , Nakazono Yoichi
Published: May 2012

The optophone with no diaphragm, which can detect sound waves without disturbing flow of air and sound field, is presented as a novel sound measurement technique and the present status of development is reviewed in this paper. The method is principally based on the Fourier optics and the sound signal is obtained by detecting ultrasmall diffraction light generated from phase modulation by sounds. The principle and theory, which have been originally developed as a plasma diagnostic technique to measure electron density fluctuations in the nuclear fusion research, are briefly introduced. Based on the theoretical analysis, property and merits as a wave-optical sound detection are presented, and the fundamental experiments and results obtained so far are reviewed. It is shown that sounds from about 100 Hz to 100 kHz can be simultaneously detected by a visible laser beam, and the method is very useful to sound measurement in aeroacoustics. Finally, present main problems of the optophone for practical uses in sound and/or noise measurements and the image of technology expected in the future are shortly shown.
An Analytical Approach to Network Motif Detection in Samples of Networks with Pairwise Different Vertex Labels
Authors: Schmidt Christoph , Weiss Thomas , Komusiewicz Christian , Witte Herbert , Leistritz Lutz
Published: May 2012

Network motifs, overrepresented small local connection patterns, are assumed to act as functional meaningful building blocks of a network and, therefore, received considerable attention for being useful for understanding design principles and functioning of networks. We present an extension of the original approach to network motif detection in single, directed networks without vertex labeling to the case of a sample of directed networks with pairwise different vertex labels. A characteristic feature of this approach to network motif detection is that subnetwork counts are derived from the whole sample and the statistical tests are adjusted accordingly to assign significance to the counts. The associated computations are efficient since no simulations of random networks are involved. The motifs obtained by this approach also comprise the vertex labeling and its associated information and are characteristic of the sample. Finally, we apply this approach to describe the intricate topology of a sample of vertex-labeled networks which originate from a previous EEG study, where the processing of painful intracutaneous electrical stimuli and directed interactions within the neuromatrix of pain in patients with major depression and healthy controls was investigated. We demonstrate that the presented approach yields characteristic patterns of directed interactions while preserving their important topological information and omitting less relevant interactions.
No Longer Sojourners: The Complexities of Racial Ethnic Identity, Gender, and Generational Outcomes for Sub-Saharan Africans in the USA
Authors: Rivers Natasha M.
Published: May 2012

Through individual and group testimonies from newly arrived, 1.5 and second generation sub-Saharan Africans (For this study sub-Saharan African refers to the countries located under Northern African countries, for example, Egypt and Morocco and, includes South Africa. There are over 50 countries represented by this region; however, the most populous groups from this region in Africa in the USA are Nigerian, Ethiopian, Kenyan, Liberian, Ghanaian, Cape Verdean, South African, and Somalian.), the diversity and complexity linked to their migration and integration experiences in the USA reveal that there is a gendered and generational element to their self identity. These elements are compounded by perceptions of being African American in a racialized society and deciding whether or not to stay connected to Africa, a continent that needs their financial, political, and social resources accumulated in the USA These “new” African Americans expand the definition of blackness in the USA. Many have created a transnational relationship to Africa and the USA, which provides important implications for Africa’s potential “brain gain” as well as socioeconomic, infrastructural, and political development.
Increased Levels of Serum Parathyroid Hormone and Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 Are the Main Factors Associated with the Progression of Vascular Calcification in Long-Hour Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Jean Guillaume , Bresson Eric , Lorriaux Christie , Mayor Brice , Hurot Jean-Marc , Deleaval Patrick , Chazot Charles
Published: May 2012

The aim of the present study was to assess the frequency and factors associated with the progression of vascular calcifications (VCs) using a semiquantitative X-ray score. We included all prevalent hemodialysis patients with initial radiological scores ranging from 0 to 3 according to the severity of the VCs. Patients were classified as non-progressors or progressors after 3 years. Among the 85 patients, 44.7% were classified as progressors. Only exhibiting high levels of serum intact parathyroid hormone (PTH, >190 pg/ml) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23 levels (>3,000 RU/ml) is associated with the risk of VC progression (OR 5.8, 95% CI 1.7–19.8, p = 0.004). Calcitriol analogs (38%), cinacalcet (15%), dialysate calcium (mean 1.48 mmol/l), dialysis session time (4–8 h) and calcium- (10%) and non-calcium-based phosphate binders (38%) were prescribed on an individual basis. Hyperphosphatemia (<10%) and, especially, hypercalcemia (1%) and hyperparathyroidism (>585 pg/ml = 0%) were infrequently observed. In conclusion, the main factor associated with VC progression was the association of higher serum PTH and FGF-23 levels. It remains to be seen whether patients should be treated to lower their PTH value, even within the target range, using calcitriol analogs, calcimimetics, parathyroidectomy, or by modifying the Klotho-FGF-23 axis.
Vasculopathy Related to Manic/Hypomanic Symptom Burden and First-Generation Antipsychotics in a Sub-Sample from the Collaborative Depression Study
Authors: Fiedorowicz Jess G. , Coryell William H. , Rice John P. , Warren Lois L. , Haynes William G.
Published: May 2012

Background: Mood disorders substantially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, though the mechanisms are unclear. We assessed for a dose-dependent relationship between course of illness or treatment with vasculopathy in a well-characterized cohort. Methods: Participants with mood disorders were recruited for the National Institute of Mental Health Collaborative Depression Study (CDS) and followed prospectively. A cross-sectional metabolic and vascular function evaluation was performed on a sub-sample near completion after a mean follow-up of 27 years. Results: A total of 35 participants from the University of Iowa (33) and Washington University (2) sites of the CDS consented to a metabolic and vascular function assessment at the Iowa site. In multivariate linear regression, controlling for age, gender, and smoking, manic/hypomanic, but not depressive, symptom burden was associated with lower flow-mediated dilation. Cumulative exposure to antipsychotics and mood stabilizers was associated with elevated augmentation pressure and mean aortic systolic blood pressure. This appeared specifically related to first-generation antipsychotic exposure and mediated by increases in brachial systolic pressure. Although second-generation antipsychotics were associated with dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, they were not associated with vasculopathy. Conclusions: These results provide evidence that chronicity of mood symptoms contribute to vasculopathy in a dose-dependent fashion. Patients with more manic/hypomanic symptoms had poorer endothelial function. First-generation antipsychotic exposure was associated with arterial stiffness, evidenced by higher augmentation pressure, perhaps secondary to elevated blood pressure. Vascular phenotyping methods may provide a promising means of elucidating the mechanisms linking mood disorders to vascular disease.
Stabilizing Group Treatment for Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Related to Child Abuse Based on Psychoeducation and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: A Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dorrepaal Ethy , Thomaes Kathleen , Smit Johannes H. , van Balkom Anton J.L.M. , Veltman Dick J. , Hoogendoorn Adriaan W. , Draijer Nel
Published: May 2012

Background: Evidence-based treatments for complex posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to childhood abuse are scarce. This is the first randomized controlled trial to test the efficacy of psycho-educational and cognitive behavioural stabilizing group treatment in terms of both PTSD and complex PTSD symptom severity. Methods: Seventy-one patients with complex PTSD and severe comorbidity (e.g. 74% axis II comorbidity) were randomly assigned to either a 20-week group treatment in addition to treatment as usual or to treatment as usual only. Primary outcome measures were the Davidson Trauma Scale (DTS) for PTSD and the Structured Interview for Disorders of Extreme Stress (SIDES) for complex PTSD symptoms. Statistical analysis was conducted in the intention-to-treat (ITT) and in the completer sample. Subjects were considered responders when scoring at 20 weeks at least 1 standard deviation below pretest findings. Results: The 16% attrition was relatively low. After 20 weeks, the experimental condition (large effect sizes) and control condition (medium effect sizes) both showed significant decreases on the DTS and SIDES, but differences between the conditions were not significant. The secondary responder analysis (ITT) revealed significantly more responders on the DTS (45 vs. 21%), but not on the SIDES (61 vs. 42%). Conclusions: Adding psycho-educational and cognitive behavioural stabilizing group treatment for complex PTSD related to child abuse to treatment as usual showed an equivocal outcome. Patients in both conditions improved substantially during stabilizing treatment, and while significant superiority on change scores was absent, responder analysis suggested clinical meaningfulness of adding group treatment.