bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Tec Kinase ITK Regulates Thymic Expansion, Emigration, and Maturation of γδ NKT Cells
Authors: Yin Catherine C. , Cho Ok Hyun , Sylvia Katelyn E. , Narayan Kavitha , Prince Amanda L. , Evans John W. , Kang Joonsoo , Berg Leslie J.
Published: February 2013

The Tec family tyrosine kinase, Itk, regulates signaling downstream of the TCR. The absence of Itk in CD4+ T cells results in impaired Th2 responses along with defects in maturation, cytokine production, and survival of iNKT cells. Paradoxically, Itk−/− mice have spontaneously elevated serum IgE levels, resulting from an expansion of the Vγ1.1+Vδ6.3+ subset of γδ T cells, known as γδ NKT cells. Comparisons between γδ NKT cells and αβ iNKT cells showed convergence in the pattern of cell surface marker expression, cytokine profiles, and gene expression, suggesting that these two subsets of NKT cells undergo similar differentiation programs. Hepatic γδ NKT cells have an invariant TCR and are derived predominantly from fetal progenitors that expand in the thymus during the first weeks of life. The adult thymus contains these invariant γδ NKT cells plus a heterogeneous population of Vγ1.1+Vδ6.3+ T cells with diverse CDR3 sequences. This latter population, normally excluded from the liver, escapes the thymus and homes to the liver when Itk is absent. In addition, Itk−/− γδ NKT cells persistently express high levels of Zbtb16 (PLZF) and Il4, genes that are normally downregulated in the most mature subsets of NKT cells. These data indicate that Itk signaling is required to prevent the expansion of γδ NKT cells in the adult thymus, to block their emigration, and to promote terminal NKT cell maturation.
Role of the Gut Microbiota in the Development and Function of Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Kamada Nobuhiko , Núñez Gabriel
Published: February 2013

Mammals are colonized by large numbers of microorganisms, including trillions of bacteria, most of which live in the intestinal tract. These indigenous microorganisms that inhabit the body of humans and animals are referred collectively to as the microbiota. Accumulating evidence indicates that the microbiota regulates the development and/or function of different types of immune cells in the intestine. For example, the microbiota drives homeostatic, pathogenic, and regulatory T cell immune responses that contribute to tissue homeostasis, but also can promote disease. The gut microbes also facilitate IgA responses, which in turn regulate the composition and function of the gut microbiota. Thus, the reciprocal regulation of the gut microbiota and the host immune system may influence the balance between homeostasis and disease in the intestine.
Infection control strategy in orthodontic office
Authors: Bhatnagar Shalaj , Bagga Dinesh K. , Sharma Payal , Kumar Piush , Sharma Rakesh , Singh Vishal
Published: February 2013

Effective and efficient infection control in the orthodontic office is essential for the safety of patients. A comprehensive infection control strategy must be implemented by the orthodontist without compromising on cost-effectiveness and time factor, that safeguards not only his own health but also of the auxiliary staff and even the community. It is also important to follow manufacturer′s instructions for dental instruments and devices regarding sterilization to avoid damage to these items.
Esoteric communiqué amid microbes in an oral biofilm
Authors: Grover Harpreet Singh , Luthra Shailly , Maroo Shruti
Published: February 2013

Dental biofilms are complex and multispecies ecosystems, and its formation requires coordinated chemical signaling between different micro-organisms present in the oral cavity. During the initial stages of its formation, planktonic bacterial cells directly attach to surfaces of the oral cavity or indirectly bind to other bacterial cells. This binding occurs through co-aggregation, which is critical for the temporary retention of bacteria on dental surfaces as well as bacterial colonization. It is during this colonization that the micro-organisms are able to interact with each other. In general, interspecies interactions involve communication, typically via quorum sensing, and metabolic cooperation or competition. Interactions among species within a biofilm can be antagonistic, such as competition over nutrients and growth inhibition, or synergistic. In this review, we discuss these important interactions among oral bacteria within the dental biofilm communities and novel therapies that could inhibit pathogenic micro-organisms and disrupt biofilm.
Is fluoride still a pivot of preventive dentistry?
Authors: Mahajan Poonam , Veersha K. L. , Mahajan Ajay
Published: February 2013

Fluoride is considered the corner stone of the preventive dentistry. Fluoride has both beneficial and detrimental effects on human health. In terms of dental health, the prevalence of dental caries is inversely related to the concentration of fluoride in drinking water; while there is a dose-response relationship between the concentration of fluoride in drinking water and the prevalence of dental fluorosis. Fluoride has a statistically significant association with a wide range of adverse effects like increased risk of bone fractures, decreased thyroid function, and lowered intelligent quotient, arthritic-like condition, early puberty and possibly, osteosarcoma. The aim of the present review is to discuss the current status of fluorides in dentistry in view of its benefits and adverse effects.
Change in salivary pH following use of homeopathic medicines: A preliminary study
Authors: Subramaniam Priya , Kumar Krishna
Published: February 2013

Objective: Homeopathic preparations are popular and well accepted by parents and children. These preparations are easily available and are prescribed for acute and chronic conditions. However, their sugar content may affect oral health. Aims and Objectives: This preliminary study assessed salivary pH following administration of homeopathic medicines commonly prescribed for children. Materials and Methods: Forty-five normal and healthy children were divided into 3 groups of 15 children each: Group 1 was given a placebo, group 2 was given chamomilla (2x), and group 3 was given arsenicum (2x). Each child was given 2 pellets to be placed below the tongue and allowed to dissolve completely. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected at baseline, and following 5, 15, 30, and 60 minutes of administration. The saliva samples were suitably transferred to the laboratory for recording of pH using a digital pH meter. The titratable acidity of both homeopathic medicines was assessed. Data was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Mean salivary pH at 15 minutes was 5.40 in group 1, 5.16 in group 2 and 5.42 in group 3, which was significant. (P=0.000) At 30 and 60 minutes, pH in groups 2 and 3 remained lower than that of group 1. The titratable acidity of chamomilla and arsenicum was found to be 0.14 mmol and 0.018 mmol, respectively. Conclusion: There was a significant reduction in salivary pH at 5, 15, and 30 minutes in groups 1 and 2. In all groups, salivary pH did not return to baseline values even after one hour of administering the homeopathic pellets.
Invasive versus non-invasive method of assessment of distance between the tip of papilla to the crest of interdental bone
Authors: Wahi Saurabh , Chhina Kamalpreet , Chhabra Vipin , Bhatnagar Rakhi
Published: February 2013

Statement of Problem: Anatomic and histologic make up of interdental region is crucial in maintaining the integrity and health of interdental papilla during surgical and restorative procedures. The effect of vertical and horizontal distance between the teeth on the incidence of interproximal papilla has been widely explored and is considered as a contentious issue. Though several non-surgical methods have been developed to assess bone level, the accuracy and reliability of these methods were questioned. Purpose and Aim: To compare the reliability of the non-invasive method using radiographs with invasive method to measure the length of papilla from the tip of papilla to crest of interdental bone. Materials and Methods: In the present study, non-invasive method using radiograph was compared to invasive method to measure length of papilla from the tip of papilla to crest of interdental bone. Radiographic length, bone probing length, and actual papilla length was measured in 20 chronic periodontitis patients, and the results were statistically analyzed. Results and Conclusion: A statistically significant correlation was observed in invasive versus non-invasive method of assessment of distance between the tip of papilla to the crest of interdental bone, indicating the importance of standardization of radiographic aids.
Oral hygiene status and practices among rural dwellers
Authors: Azodo Clement C. , Amenaghawon Osarobo Pius
Published: February 2013

Objectives: To determine the oral hygiene status and practices among rural dwellers in Delta and Edo States of Nigeria. Materials and Methods: One-hundred and fifty-four participants (45 males and 109 females) between the ages of 5 and 88 years with mean age of 33.44±2.34 years selected among individuals attending Children Evangelism Ministry Free Medical Outreach in five rural communities in both Delta and Edo State of Nigeria were studied. Data were collected through clinical examinations and the use of interviewer-administered questionnaires. Results: Of the 154 participants studied, 22.1% participants had one or more carious teeth, 11.7% participants had at least one missing tooth and 0.6% participants had fillings. Toothache (33.1%) and gingival bleeding (27.3%) were reported oral health problems among the participants. One third (33.8%) of the participants had poor oral hygiene status. Oral hygiene status was significantly associated with age, gender, and educational status, but there was no significant variation among the various communities. Majority of the participants cleaned their teeth with toothbrush and toothpaste-133 (86.4%), indulged in once-daily tooth cleaning-115 (74.7%), and have never visited the dentist-145 (94.2%). There existed significant association between daily tooth cleaning frequency, age, gender, location and level of education. Conclusion: The oral hygiene and oral health practices among rural dwellers were suboptimal. There is need to develop and implement community-oriented oral health promotion programs targeting oral health practices to control preventable oral diseases among rural dweller.
Assessment of chewing stick (miswak) use in a Muslim community in Cameroon
Authors: Agbor Michael A. , Azodo Clement C.
Published: February 2013

Objective: To determine the prevalence and reasons for chewing stick use among adult Muslim′s inhabitants of Banyo in the Adamawa region of Cameroon. Materials and Methods: This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study aimed at determining the prevalence and reasons for chewing stick use among Muslims was conducted between November 2010 and April 2011. Results: Of the 220 participants in this study, 187 (85.0%) of them reported chewing stick use for teeth cleaning, and this was higher among males than females. Chewing stick use increased with ageing and varied among participants of different professions. Chewing stick users accented that the chewing stick use has a relationship with religion, and believed that chewing stick has a positive effect in the mouth than the non-users. Chewing stick users were less likely to have visited the dentist and experienced mouth odor but more likely to report oral health problems than non-users. The majority of the participants used chewing stick alone while a few used chewing stick with salt, charcoal and toothpaste The reasons for chewing stick use were religious advice, treatment of oral diseases, imitation of others and pleasure. Conclusion: Chewing stick use was common among participants with religious advice being the most dominant reason for the usage. Chewing stick users were less likely to visit the dentist, experience mouth odor but are more likely to report oral health problem than the non-users. This study information will serve as a useful guide in community oral health interventional development programme among Muslims.
Self-medication practices among dental, midwifery and nursing students
Authors: Ehigiator Osarobo , Azodo Clement C. , Ehizele Adebola O. , Ezeja Ejike B. , Ehigiator Laura , Madukwe Ikechukwu U.
Published: February 2013

Objective: To determine the pattern of self-medication among dental, midwifery and nursing students and to evaluate the factors associated with self-medication. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional of dental, nursing and midwifery students undergoing clinical training in University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria was conducted in 2010. The elicited data include demography, use of drug without doctor′s prescription, type of drug used (pain relievers, antibiotics, anti-malarial, cough medication and nutritional supplement), reasons for self-medication, factors that influenced the choice of drug and source of drug. Results: A total of 76.8% of the respondents indulged in self-medication practices. Of which, 33.0% used the medication inappropriately. The type of self-medication use was, pain relievers (60.5%), antibiotics (43.2%), anti-malarial (40.5%), cough medication (16.7%) and nutritional supplement (16.0%). Previous experience with the illness and perceived minor nature of the illness were the predominant reasons for the self-medication practices among the respondents. The major factors that influenced their choice of medication were previous experience with similar symptoms (39.7%), advice of non-doctor health professional (33.5%). Pharmacy shop was the main source of the self-medicated drugs. Conclusion: Self-medication was a common practice among this studied group of health workers. The level of inappropriate drug use denotes self-medication as an unhealthy option, and it therefore, should be discouraged.
Association between diabetes mellitus and periodontal status in north Indian adults
Authors: Pathak Anjani Kumar , Shakya Vijay Kumar , Chandra Anil , Goel Kopal
Published: February 2013

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of periodontal diseases among individuals with type I and type II diabetes in north India and evaluate the association of this condition with behavioral and clinical variables. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on a calculated sample of 300 individuals with diabetes. Periodontitis was defined as clinical attachment loss (CAL) >3 mm in two or more non-adjacent teeth or those that exhibited CAL >5 mm in 30.0% of teeth. All subjects were over 30 years of age and underwent a periodontal examination. Behavioral characteristics as well as medical history and dental history were obtained with a structured interview. Discrete (categorical) groups were compared by Chi-square (χ2) test. A two-tailed (α=2) P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. GraphPad Prism (version 5.0) was used for the analysis. Results: A total of 6.7% exhibited a healthy periodontium; 68.0% exhibited gingivitis; and 25.3% exhibited periodontitis. The univariate analysis revealed that periodontitis was statistically more prevalent among men (P=0.001); among participants with type II diabetes (P=0.009); those with more than five years of diabetes (P=0.065); those with tobacco smoking habits (P<0.001); and those who had not visited the dentist in the previous year (P<0.001). Conclusion: Multiple determinants are associated with the prevalence of periodontitis among patients with diabetes.
Oral psoriasis: A diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Khan Saif , Zaheer Sufian , Gupta N. D.
Published: February 2013

Psoriasis is a chronic, genetically linked, scaly, and inflammatory disease of the skin. Oral manifestations of psoriasis are rare and are often difficult to diagnose. A 35-year-old female presented with gum bleeding, chronic irritation, intolerance to salt and spicy food, and frequent occurrence of painful mouth ulcers with a fissured tongue. Examination of the oral cavity showed desquamations on the buccal mucosa with pedunculated and exophytic growths and also slight gingival enlargements in the anterior segment. The exophytic growths along with gingival enlargement were excised and sent for histopathological examination, which revealed them to be psoriasis. Oral psoriasis is a rare entity and might be confused with other oral mucous membrane dermatoses; hence, it should be considered under differential diagnosis of oral mucous membrane disorders and confirmed histopathologically.
Transurgical re-attachment of coronal fragment in anterior-fractured tooth
Authors: Martos Josué , Marques Mariana M. , da Costa Roberta Katrein , Silveira Luiz F. M. , Nova Cruz Luis E. R.
Published: February 2013

Esthetic and functional rehabilitation is the primary goal of the treatment of crown-root-fractured tooth. A 14-year-old male patient that fractured her maxillary left canine with biologic width violation is presented. Transurgical exposures of the fracture remnant were performed to possibility the rubber dam isolation followed by crown re-attachment using bonding system and a resin composite. Clinical and radiographic examination 5 months after trauma showed good esthetics, pulp normality, and periodontal health.
Maxillary antral mucocoele caused by ectopic canine tooth in maxillary sinus
Authors: Dwivedi Chandra D. , Dwivedi Shweta , Chaturvedi Thakur Prasad , Sharma Naresh
Published: February 2013

A seventeen year old male presented with a 5 month history of left sided purulent rhinorrhoea and left facial pain. Occlusal view X-ray of maxilla showed the presence of an ectopic canine in the leftt anterosuperior aspect of the maxillary sinus entrapped in soft tissue. Surgical removal of the tooth and the diseased antral tissue was undertaken via a Caldwell-Luc procedure with resolution of symptoms.
Class $wA(s,t)$ operators and quasisimilarity
Authors: Rashid Mohammad H. M.
Published: February 2013

In this paper it is shown that the normal parts of quasisimilar

wA(s,t)

operators with

s+t=1

are unitarily equivalent. Also, we establish the orthogonality of the range and the kernel of a nonnormal derivation with respect to the unitarily invariant norms associated with norm ideals of operators. Moreover, we obtain that the range of the generalized derivation induced by an pair satisfies Fuglede–Putnam property is orthogonal to its kernel.
Krohn–Rhodes complexity of Brauer type semigroups
Authors: Auinger Karl
Published: February 2013

The Krohn–Rhodes complexity of the Brauer type semigroups

\mathfrak{B}_n

and

\mathfrak{A}_n

is computed. In three-quarters of the cases the result is the ‘expected’ one: the complexity coincides with the (essential)

\mathcal{J}

-depth of the respective semigroup. The exception (and perhaps the most interesting case) is the annular semigroup

\mathfrak{A}_{2n}

of even degree in which case the complexity is the

\mathcal{J}

-depth minus

1

. For the ‘rook’ versions

P\mathfrak{B}_n

and

P\mathfrak{A}_n

it is shown that

c(P\mathfrak{B}_n)=c(\mathfrak{B}_n)

and

c(P\mathfrak{A}_{2n-1})=c(\mathfrak{A}_{2n-1})

for all

n\ge 1

. The computation of

c(P\mathfrak{A}_{2n})

is left as an open problem.
Novel Atmospheric Growth Technique to Improve Both Light Absorption and Charge Collection in ZnO/Cu2O Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Marin Andrew T. , Muñoz‐Rojas David , Iza Diana C. , Gershon Talia , Musselman Kevin P. , MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L.
Published: February 2013

In low temperature grown ZnO/Cu2O solar cells, there is a discrepancy between collection length and depletion width in the Cu2O which makes the simultaneous achievement of efficient charge collection and high open‐circuit voltage problematic. This is addressed in this study by fabricating ZnO/Cu2O/Cu2O+ back surface field devices using an atmospheric atomic layer deposition (AALD) printing method to grow a sub‐200‐nm Cu2O+ film on top of electrodeposited ZnO and Cu2O layers. The AALD Cu2O+ has a carrier concentration around 2 orders of magnitude higher than the electrodeposited Cu2O, allowing the electrodeposited Cu2O layer thickness in a back surface field cell to be reduced from 3 μm to the approximate charge collection length, 1 μm, while still allowing a high potential to be built into the cell. The dense conformal nature of the AALD layer also blocks shunt pathways allowing the voltage enhancement to be maintained. The thinner cell design reduces recombination losses and increases charge collection from both incident light and light reflected off the back electrode. Using this design, a short circuit current density of 6.32 mA cm−2 is achieved–the highest reported JSC for an atmospherically deposited ZnO/Cu2O device to date.
Amorphous Zinc Stannate (Zn2SnO4) Nanofibers Networks as Photoelectrodes for Organic Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Choi Seung‐Hoon , Hwang Daesub , Kim Dong‐Young , Kervella Yann , Maldivi Pascale , Jang Sung‐Yeon , Demadrille Renaud , Kim Il‐Doo
Published: February 2013

A new strategy for developing dye‐sensitised solar cells (DSSCs) by combining thin porous zinc tin oxide (Zn2SnO4) fiber‐based photoelectrodes with purely organic sensitizers is presented. The preparation of highly porous Zn2SnO4 electrodes, which show high specific surface area up to 124 m2/g using electrospinning techniques, is reported. The synthesis of a new organic donor‐conjugate‐acceptor (D‐π‐A) structured orange organic dye with molar extinction coefficient of 44 600 M−1 cm−1 is also presented. This dye and two other reference dyes, one organic and a ruthenium complex, are employed for the fabrication of Zn2SnO4 fiber‐based DSSCs. Remarkably, organic dye‐sensitized DSSCs displayed significantly improved performance compared to the ruthenium complex sensitized DSSCs. The devices based on a 3 μm‐thick Zn2SnO4 electrode using the new sensitizer in conjunction with a liquid electrolyte show promising photovoltaic conversion up to 3.7% under standard AM 1.5G sunlight (100 mW cm−2). This result ranks among the highest reported for devices using ternary metal oxide electrodes.
Efficient Persistent Room Temperature Phosphorescence in Organic Amorphous Materials under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Hirata Shuzo , Totani Kenro , Zhang Junxiang , Yamashita Takashi , Kaji Hironori , Marder Seth R. , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Adachi Chihaya
Published: February 2013

Persistent emission with a long lifetime (>1 s) from organic materials can only be observed at a low temperature, because of the significant nonradiative deactivation pathway that occurs at room‐temperature (RT). If organic materials with persistent RT emission in air could be developed, they could potentially be utilized for a variety of applications. Here, organic host‐guest materials with efficient persistent RT phosphorescence (RTP) are developed by minimizing the nonradiative deactivation pathway of triplet excitons. The nonradiative deactivation pathway is dependent on both nonradiative deactivation of the guest and quenching by diffusional motion of the host. The rigidity and oxygen barrier properties of the steroidal compound used as the host suppressed the quenching, and the aromatic hydrocarbon used as the guest is highly deuterated to minimize nonradiative deactivation of the guest. Red‐green‐blue persistent RTP with a lifetime >1 s and a quantum yield >10% in air is realized for a pure organic material.
Preparation of Polypyrrole Nanocomposites with Organophilic and Hydrophilic Montmorillonite and Investigation of Their Corrosion Protection on Iron
Authors: Olad Ali , Rashidzadeh Azam , Amini Maryam
Published: February 2013

The nanocomposite of polypyrrole with organonophilic montmorillonite and hydrophilic montmorillonite clays was prepared by in situ polymerization of pyrrole monomer in the presence of montmorillonite nanoclays. FTIR spectroscopy studies and X‐ray diffraction pattern were used to confirm the formation of a polypyrrole/montmorillonite nanocomposite. The scanning electron microscopy image of the nanocomposite showed the homogeneous and continuous structure of the nanocomposite. Also cyclic voltammetry studies revealed that the synthesized nanocomposites were electroactive. The anticorrosive properties of nanocomposite coatings on iron coupons were evaluated and compared with pure polypyrrole coating. According to the results in corrosive environments, the polypyrrole/organonophilic montmorillonite nanocomposite has enhanced corrosion protection effect in comparison to pure polypyrrole and polypyrrole/hydrophilic montmorillonite coating. It was concluded that the better corrosion protection effect was due to the better dispersion of organophilic montmorillonite nanoclays in the polymer matrix, which results in a decrease in the corrosion current and corrosion rate. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Technol 2013, 32, 21337; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21337
Treating iron overload in patients with non‐transfusion‐dependent thalassemia
Authors: Taher Ali T. , Viprakasit Vip , Musallam Khaled M. , Cappellini M. Domenica
Published: February 2013

Despite receiving no or only occasional blood transfusions, patients with non‐transfusion‐dependent thalassemia (NTDT) have increased intestinal iron absorption and can accumulate iron to levels comparable with transfusion‐dependent patients. This iron accumulation occurs more slowly in NTDT patients compared to transfusion‐dependent thalassemia patients, and complications do not arise until later in life. It remains crucial for these patients' health to monitor and appropriately treat their iron burden. Based on recent data, including a randomized clinical trial on iron chelation in NTDT, a simple iron chelation treatment algorithm is presented to assist physicians with monitoring iron burden and initiating chelation therapy in this group of patients. Am. J. Hematol. 88:409–415, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Are green building features safe for preventive maintenance workers? Examining the evidence
Authors: Omar Mohamed Shamun , Quinn Margaret M. , Buchholz Bryan , Geiser Ken
Published: February 2013

Background

Many newly constructed green buildings (GB) are certified using the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system for new construction and major renovation which focuses on architectural and mechanical design to conserve energy, reduce environmental harm, and enhance indoor quality for occupants. This study evaluated the preventive maintenance (PM) worker occupational safety and health (OSH) risks related to the design of GB.

Methods

PM job hazard analyses (JHA) were performed on the tasks required to operate and maintain five GB features selected from 13 LEED certified GB. A 22‐item JHA and OSH risk scoring system were developed.

Results

Potentially serious OSH hazards included: green roofs made of slippery material without fall protection; energy recovery wheels and storm water harvesting systems in confined spaces; skylights without guard rails; and tight geothermal well mechanical rooms constraining safe preventive practices.

Conclusions

GB can present PM OSH risks and these should be eliminated in the building design phase. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:410–423, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of sinonasal hemangiopericytomas: a systematic review
Authors: Dahodwala Mufaddal Q. , Husain Qasim , Kanumuri Vivek V. , Choudhry Osamah J. , Liu James K. , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: February 2013

Background

Hemangiopericytomas are typically found in soft‐tissue, but only rarely found in the sinonasal tract. Sinonasal hemangiopericytomas have been reported mostly through case studies, and optimal treatment is considered surgical excision. Classically, open surgical methods of tumor extirpation have been considered standard of care. With the wider use of endoscopic methods, an updated systematic review in terms of treatment is warranted.

Methods

Cases were identified using a MEDLINE and PubMed search. Relevant studies were identified, and data was extracted regarding patient demographics, presenting symptoms, tumor characteristics, treatment, and outcomes.

Results

A total of 128 cases were collected from 56 articles, consisting of case reports and series. The most common presenting symptoms were epistaxis, nasal obstruction, and facial pain/swelling/pressure. Computed tomography (CT) and X‐ray were the most common modes of imaging during diagnosis and operative planning. The tumor often occupied multiple locations in the sinonasal tract at initial presentation. Surgical resection was the mainstay of treatment in 126 of the 128 cases (98.4%), either through open resection or endoscopic techniques. Surgical removal resulted in no recurrence in 79.7% of the cases. The use of endoscopic techniques increased significantly in the past decade. This review found no significant difference in terms of recurrence between endoscopic and open treatment groups, age, gender, and unilocality vs multilocality of tumor.

Conclusion

Surgical management remains the mainstay of treatment for hemangiopericytomas. Endoscopic resection of these lesions has increased over the last few decades and has become a safe, viable, and reasonable alternative to open resection.
Positively charged hollow‐fiber composite nanofiltration membrane prepared by quaternization crosslinking
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Wang Wei
Published: February 2013

Poly(N,N‐dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) can be crosslinked by interfacial polymerization to develop a positively charged dense network structure. According to this mechanism, a positively charged hollow‐fiber composite nanofiltration (NF) membrane was prepared by quaternization to achieve a crosslinked PDMAEMA gel layer on the outer surface of polysulfone hollow‐fiber ultrafiltration (UF) membranes with a PDMAEMA aqueous solution as a coating solution and p‐xylylene dichloride as an agent. The preparation conditions, including the PDMAEMA concentration, content of additive in the coating solution, catalyzer, alkali, crosslinking temperature, and hollow‐fiber substrate membrane, were studied. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the structure of the membranes. This membrane had a rejection to inorganic salts in aqueous solution. The rejection of MgSO4 (2 g/L aqueous solution at 0.7 MPa and 25°C) was above 98%, and the flux was about 19.5 L m−2 h−1. Moreover, the composite NF membranes showed good stability in the water‐phase filtration process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Lime repellent polyethylene additives
Authors: Siegmann Konstantin , Sterchi Robert , Widler Roland , Hirayama Martina
Published: February 2013

The precipitation of calcium carbonate from hard water, commonly known as calcification or scaling, is a widespread nuisance. To avoid scaling, a physical or chemical pretreatment of water is often employed, such as ion exchange, addition of complexing agents, or the use of magnetic and electric fields. Our approach is to construct surfaces to which calcium carbonate crystals do not adhere. Here, we show that by the use of particular copolymer additives, polyethylene can be made lime repellent. The copolymers have the formula: polyethylene‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) and are compounded into the polyethylene. Twelve such additives were investigated and three displayed anticalcification activity. The effective copolymers were investigated by mass spectrometry. Infrared spectroscopy of copolymer/polyethylene blends revealed that the concentration of the additive in the matrix correlates to a specific absorption band. Stability tests against hot water showed that the anticalcification activity was maintained over the timeframe investigated. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Individualized two‐stage multiple testing procedures with corresponding interval estimates
Authors: Cohen Arthur , Ma Yingqiu , Sackrowitz Harold B.
Published: February 2013

Multiple testing models have become an important part of statistical applications. Typically they can be presented as having M hypotheses each of which concerns an individual parameter. In addition to testing each of these hypotheses, there is often a desire to obtain interval estimates for the parameters. The use of stepwise procedures arises because single‐step procedures are extremely conservative. Unfortunately research into the construction of useful, computationally feasible interval estimates corresponding to stepwise procedures has been slow. We present an alternative method of constructing multiple testing procedures (MTPs) that easily admits corresponding interval estimates. The new method places greater focus on each hypothesis separately while still using all the data. This method is particularly effective in the dependent case. Not only do these new MTPs perform as well as commonly used stepwise procedures but they also have a practical interval property not usually shared by stepwise procedures. That is, acceptance regions have desirable convexity properties. Furthermore, interval estimates associated with these tests are easily obtained. In addition, these intervals (i) are typically shorter than those based on the Bonferroni, Scheff, Tukey or Dunnett method when they are applicable, (ii) are less likely to contain the null point falsely than other methods do, (iii) are informative, i.e. they are all finite in the two‐sided case, unlike some constructed by other methods which often are infinite, (iv) have a form of the interval property.
Heterologous expression of human cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 in Escherichia coli and establishment of RP‐HPLC method to serve as activity marker
Authors: Pan Yan , Mak Joon Wah , Ong Chin Eng
Published: February 2013

In this study, a simple and reliable reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) method was established and validated to analyze S‐mephenytoin 4‐hydroxylase activity of a recombinant CYP2C19 system. This system was obtained by co‐expressing CYP2C19 and NADPH‐CYP oxidoreductase (OxR) proteins in Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells. In addition to RP‐HPLC, the expressed proteins were evaluated by immunoblotting and reduced CO difference spectral scanning. The RP‐HPLC assay showed good linearity (r2 = 1.00) with 4‐hydroxymephenytoin concentration from 0.100 to 50.0 μm and the limit of detection was 5.00 × 10−2 μm. Intraday and interday precisions determined were from 1.90 to 8.19% and from 2.20 to 14.9%, respectively. Recovery and accuracy of the assay were from 83.5 to 85.8% and from 95.0 to 105%. Enzyme kinetic parameters (Km, Vmax and Ki) were comparable to reported values. The presence of CYP2C19 in bacterial membranes was confirmed by immunoblotting and the characteristic absorbance peak at 450 nm was determined in the reduced CO difference spectral assay. Moreover, the activity level of co‐expressed OxR was found to be comparable to that of the literature. As a conclusion, the procedures described here have generated catalytically active CYP2C19 and the RP‐HPLC assay developed is able to serve as CYP2C19 activity marker for pharmacokinetic drug interaction study in vitro. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical Simulation of the Two‐Phase Fluid Field in a Gas‐Around‐Liquid Spray Nozzle
Authors: Liu D. , Chen B. , Zhang B.
Published: February 2013

A new gas‐around‐liquid spray nozzle (GLSN) was designed, and the two‐phase flow fluid field in this nozzle was simulated numerically. Flow characteristics under different structural parameters were obtained by changing the L/D ratio of the premixing chamber, incident angle, and inlet pressures. Increasing the L/D ratio and incident angle improved flow characteristics such as atomization flow, outlet velocity, and turbulence intensity. The nozzle performed optimally at an L/D ratio of 0.5 and incident angle of 60°. The atomization flow decreased with higher gas pressure and increased with higher liquid pressure. The outlet velocity mainly depended on the inlet gas pressure, not on the inlet liquid pressure. These results provide an indication for optimum structures and parameters of the GLSN.
Solubility of Ibuprofen, Phytosterol, Salicylic Acid, and Naproxen in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Bolten D. , Lietzow R. , Türk M.
Published: February 2013

Experimental solubility data of the nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ibuprofen, salicylic acid, and naproxen as well as of the plant‐derived active component phytosterol have been determined in aqueous stabilizer solutions as a function of stabilizer concentration. SDS, Solutol® HS15, Tween® 20, Tween® 80, polidocanol, Lutrol® F68, PVP 10, PVP K25, and PVP K90 were chosen to solubilize the drugs. Furthermore, the influence of temperature, buffer, and pH value of the aqueous solution on drug solubility was investigated.
Optimized Backflushing Process for Fibrous Media in Engine Oil Filtration and Enhancement by Ultrasound
Authors: Gruschwitz F. , Nirschl H. , Anlauf H.
Published: February 2013

Filter media that are made of metal fiber fleece have been qualified as a very suitable method to clean engine oils from fine particles in large diesel application. However, regeneration by backflushing of these densely packed depth filtration media is a great challenge. In experimental studies, the principles of successful hydrodynamic backflushing could be identified. Furthermore, the auxiliary effects of medium‐ and high‐power ultrasound on this process were investigated and could be qualified. Ideal process parameters for the general aim of freeing filter media from clogging particle fractions whilst using minimized amounts of flushing medium can be derived. This generates input parameters for an optimized apparatus design in real‐scale application.
Tat-activating regulatory DNA-binding protein regulates glycolysis in hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating the platelet isoform of phosphofructokinase through microRNA 520
Authors: Park Yun-Yong , Kim Sang-Bae , Han Hee Dong , Sohn Bo Hwa , Kim Ji Hoon , Liang Jiyong , Lu Yiling , Rodriguez-Aguayo Cristian , Lopez-Berestein Gabriel , Mills Gordon B. , Sood Anil K. , Lee Ju-Seog
Published: February 2013

Metabolic changes are common features of many cancer cells and are frequently associated with the clinical outcome of patients with various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, aberrant metabolic pathways in cancer cells are attractive targets for cancer therapy. However, our understanding of cancer-specific regulatory mechanisms of cell metabolism is still very limited. We found that Tat-activating regulatory DNA-binding protein (TARDBP) is a novel regulator of glycolysis in HCC cells. TARDBP regulates expression of the platelet isoform of phosphofructokinase (PFKP), the rate-limiting enzyme of glycolysis that catalyzes the irreversible conversion of fructose-6-phosphate to fructose-1,6-bisphosphate. Silencing of TARDBP expression in multiple HCC cell lines leads to impaired glucose metabolism and inhibition of in vitro and in vivo growth of HCC cells. Notably, the microRNA 520 (miR-520) family is an intermediate regulator of TARDBP-mediated regulation of glycolysis. Mechanistically, TARDBP suppressed expression of the miR-520 family, which, in turn, inhibited expression of PFKP. We further showed that expression of TARDBP is significantly associated with the overall survival of patients with HCC. Conclusion: Our study provides new mechanistic insights into the regulation of glycolysis in HCC cells and reveals TARDBP as a potential therapeutic target for HCC. (HEPATOLOGY 2013;)
Polymorphisms in the coding region of X-ray repair complementing group 4 and aflatoxin B1-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Long Xi-Dai , Yao Jin-Guang , Zeng Zhi , Ma Yun , Huang Xiao-Ying , Wei Zhong-Hua , Liu Min , Zhang Jian-Jun , Xue Feng , Zhai Bo , Xia Qiang
Published: February 2013

X-ray repair complementing group 4 (XRCC4) is very important in maintaining overall genome stability and may play an important role in carcinogenesis. We aimed to investigate the role of polymorphisms in the coding region of this gene in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) caused by aflatoxin B1 (AFB1). A hospital-based case-control study, including 1,499 HCC cases and 2,045 controls without any liver diseases or tumors, was conducted in a high AFB1 exposure area (the Guangxi region) to assess the relationship between 21 polymorphisms in the coding region of XRCC4 and AFB1-related HCC risk and prognosis. Among these 21 polymorphisms, only rs28383151 modified HCC risk. These individuals with the genotypes of rs28383151 A alleles (rs28383151-GA/AA), compared with the homozygote of rs28383151 G alleles (rs28383151-GG), faced increasing risk of HCC (odds ratio [OR]: 2.17; 95% confidence interval: 1.77-2.67). Significant interactive effects between risk genotypes (OR, >1) and AFB1 exposure status were also observed in the joint-effects analysis. Furthermore, this polymorphism was correlated not only with lower XRCC4-expressing levels, but also with higher AFB1-DNA adducts levels and increasing TP53M and portal vein tumor risk. The rs28383151 polymorphism modified the recurrence-free survival and overall survival of HCC patients, especially under high AFB1 exposure conditions. Additionally, this polymorphism multiplicatively interacted with the glutathione S-transferase M1 polymorphism with respect to HCC risk (ORinteraction = 2.13). Conclusion: Genetic polymorphisms in the coding region of XRCC4 may be risk and prognostic biomarkers of AFB1-related HCC, and rs28383151 is such a potential candidate. (HEPATOLOGY 2013) © 147.
MicroRNA‐138 suppresses ovarian cancer cell invasion and metastasis by targeting SOX4 and HIF‐1α
Authors: Yeh Yu‐Ming , Chuang Chi‐Mu , Chao Kuan‐Chong , Wang Lu‐Hai
Published: February 2013

Metastasis is the major factor affecting patient survival in ovarian cancer. However, its molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Our study used isogenic pairs of low‐ and high‐invasive ovarian cancer cell lines to demonstrate the downregulation of miRNA‐138 in the highly invasive cells, and its functioning as an inhibitor of cell migration and invasion. An orthotopic xenograft mouse model further demonstrated that the expression of miRNA‐138 inhibited ovarian cancer metastasis to other organs. Results indicated that miR‐138 directly targeted SRY‐related high mobility group box 4 (SOX4) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), and overexpression of SOX4 and HIF‐1α effectively reversed the miR‐138‐mediated suppression of cell invasion. Epidermal growth factor receptor acted as the downstream molecule of SOX4 by way of direct transcriptional control, whereas Slug was the downstream molecule of HIF‐1α by way of proteasome‐mediated degradation. Analysis of human ovarian tumors further revealed downregulation of miR‐138 and upregulation of SOX4 in late‐stage tumors. Patients with miR‐138low/SOXhigh signature are predominant in late stage and tend to have malignant phenotypes including lymph nodes metastasis, larger ascites volume and higher tumor grade. Our study demonstrates the role and clinical relevance of miR‐138 in ovarian cancer cell invasion and metastasis, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for suppression of ovarian cancer metastasis by targeting SOX4 and HIF‐1α pathways.
Homology of lungs and gas bladders: Insights from arterial vasculature
Authors: Longo Sarah , Riccio Mark , McCune Amy R
Published: February 2013

Gas bladders of ray‐finned fishes serve a variety of vital functions and are thus an important novelty of most living vertebrates. The gas bladder has long been regarded as an evolutionary modification of lungs. Critical evidence for this hypothesized homology is whether pulmonary arteries supply the gas bladder as well as the lungs. Pulmonary arteries, paired branches of the fourth efferent branchial arteries, deliver blood to the lungs in osteichthyans with functional lungs (lungfishes, tetrapods, and the ray‐finned polypterid fishes). The fact that pulmonary arteries also supply the respiratory gas bladder of Amia calva (bowfin) has been used to support the homology of lungs and gas bladders, collectively termed air‐filled organs (AO). However, the homology of pulmonary arteries in bowfin and lunged osteichthyans has been uncertain, given the apparent lack of pulmonary arteries in critical taxa. To re‐evaluate the homology of pulmonary arteries in bowfin and lunged osteichthyans, we studied, using micro‐CT technology, the arterial vasculature of Protopterus, Polypterus, Acipenser, Polyodon, Amia, and Lepisosteus, and analyzed these data using a phylogenetic approach. Our data reveal that Acipenser and Polyodon have paired posterior branches of the fourth efferent branchial arteries, which are thus similar in origin to pulmonary arteries. We hypothesize that these arteries are vestigial pulmonary arteries that have been coopted for new functions due to the dorsal shift of the AO and/or the loss of respiration in these taxa. Ancestral state reconstructions support pulmonary arteries as a synapomorphy of the Osteichthyes, provide the first concrete evidence for the retention of pulmonary arteries in Amia, and support thehomology of lungs and gas bladders due to a shared vascular supply. Finally, we use ancestral state reconstructions to show that arterial AO supplies from the celiacomesenteric artery or dorsal aorta appear to be convergent between teleosts and nonteleost actinopterygians. J. Morphol., 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simultaneous magnetic resonance angiography and perfusion (MRAP) measurement: Initial application in lower extremity skeletal muscle
Authors: Wright Katherine L. , Seiberlich Nicole , Jesberger John A. , Nakamoto Dean A. , Muzic Raymond F. , Griswold Mark A. , Gulani Vikas
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To obtain a simultaneous 3D magnetic resonance angiography and perfusion (MRAP) using a single acquisition and to demonstrate MRAP in the lower extremities. A time‐resolved contrast‐enhanced exam was used in MRAP to simultaneously acquire a contrast‐enhanced MR angiography (MRA) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) perfusion, which currently requires separate acquisitions and thus two contrast doses. MRAP can be used to assess large and small vessels in vascular pathologies such as peripheral arterial disease.

Materials and Methods

MRAP was performed on 10 volunteers following unilateral plantar flexion exercise (one leg exercised and one rested) on two separate days. Data were acquired after administration of a single dose of contrast agent using an optimized sampling strategy, parallel imaging, and partial‐Fourier acquisition to obtain a high spatial resolution, 3D‐MRAP frame every 4 seconds. Two radiologists assessed MRAs for image quality, a signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) analysis was performed, and pharmacokinetic modeling yielded perfusion (Ktrans).

Results

MRA images had high SNR and radiologist‐assessed diagnostic quality. Mean Ktrans ± standard error were 0.136 ± 0.009, 0.146 ± 0.012, and 0.191 ± 0.012 min−1 in the resting tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius, and soleus, respectively, which significantly increased with exercise to 0.291 ± 0.018, 0.270 ± 0.019, and 0.338 ± 0.022 min−1. Bland–Altman analysis showed good repeatability.

Conclusion

MRAP provides simultaneous high‐resolution MRA and quantitative DCE exams to assess large and small vessels with a single contrast dose. Application in skeletal muscle shows quantitative, repeatable perfusion measurements, and the ability to measure physiological differences. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1237–1244. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.