bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy Comparison Between Simple Mixed‐Dilution and Simple Mid‐Dilution On‐Line Hemodiafiltration Techniques: A Crossover Study
Authors: Susantitaphong Paweena , Tiranathanagul Khajohn , Katavetin Pisut , Hanwiwatwong Orawadee , Wittayalertpanya Supeecha , Praditpornsilpa Kearkiat , Tungsanga Kriang , Eiam‐Ong Somchai
Published: August 2012

Mid‐dilution and mixed‐dilution on‐line hemodiafiltration (OL‐HDF) techniques are innovated to overcome the limitations of two standard techniques including predilution and postdilution. Unfortunately, the head‐to‐head comparisons between these two novel techniques in the same study are still limited. Moreover, the original mid‐dilution and mixed‐dilution OL‐HDF need special dialyzers and special machines. In the present study, simple mid‐dilution and simple mixed‐dilution OL‐HDF were settled with the aim for clinical use in general hemodialysis (HD) centers. The efficacies of uremic toxins removal between both modalities were measured and compared. This prospective randomized crossover study was conducted on 12 stable HD patients undergoing simple mixed‐dilution and simple mid‐dilution OL‐HDF techniques. HD prescriptions were similar in both techniques. The dialysis efficacies were determined by calculating small‐ (urea, creatinine, and phosphate) and middle‐molecule (beta‐2 microglobulin [β2M]) removal. Moreover, potential complications such as high transmembrane pressure (TMP) and protein loss were also observed. Simple mixed‐dilution OL‐HDF provided significantly greater clearances of urea, creatinine, and β2M when compared with the simple mid‐dilution OL‐HDF techniques. Phosphate clearances in both techniques were comparable. In addition, TMP and dialysate albumin loss were not different. There were no intradialytic complications in both techniques. Simple mixed‐dilution OL‐HDF could provide greater efficacy for small‐ and middle‐molecule clearances and acceptable potential risks, while phosphate removal is comparable.
A randomized controlled trial of flunarizine as add‐on therapy and effect on cognitive outcome in children with infantile spasms
Authors: Bitton Jonathan Y. , Sauerwein Hannelore C. , Weiss Shelly K. , Donner Elizabeth J. , Whiting Sharon , Dooley Joseph M. , Snead Carter , Farrell Kevin , Wirrell Elaine C. , Mohamed Ismail S. , Ronen Gabriel M. , Salas‐Prato Milagros , Amre Devendra , Lassonde Maryse , Carmant Lionel
Published: August 2012

Purpose:  Cognitive impairment is observed commonly in children with a history of infantile spasms (IS). The goal of this study was to prospectively examine the effect on cognitive outcome of a neuroprotective agent used as adjunctive therapy during treatment of the spasms.

Methods:  In a randomized controlled trial, patients received a standardized therapy plus flunarizine or placebo. The standardized treatment consisted of vigabatrin as first‐line therapy. Nonresponders were switched to intramuscular synthetic adrenocorticotropic hormone (sACTH depot) after 2 weeks and, if necessary, to topiramate after two additional weeks. The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS) and Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID) were used as outcome measures 24 months after the intervention.

Key Findings:  Sixty‐eight of 101 children diagnosed over 3 years in seven centers in Canada received either adjunctive flunarizine or placebo. Sixty‐five of the 68 children (96%) became spasm‐free within 8 weeks and no late relapse occurred. Bayley and Vineland results were available at baseline and at 24 months in 45 children. There was no significant difference in the BSID developmental quotient between the flunarizine‐ and placebo‐treated children at baseline (44.3 ± 35.5 vs. 30.9 ± 29.8; p = 0.18) or 24 months later (56.9 ± 33.3 vs. 46 ± 34.2; p = 0.29). However, the 10 flunarizine‐treated children with no identified etiology had a better outcome than the eight controls at 24 months on both the Vineland Scale (84.1 ± 11.3 vs. 72.3 ± 9.8; p = 0.03) and the Bayley Scale (87.6 ± 14.7 vs. 69.9 ± 25.3; p = 0.07).

Significance:  Our study failed to demonstrate a protective effect of flunarizine on cognitive outcome in a cohort of children with IS. An analysis of subgroups suggested that flunarizine may further improve cognitive outcome in children with no identified etiology.
Tariff evasion and rules of origin violations under the Canada‐U.S. Free Trade Agreement
Authors: Stoyanov Andrey
Published: August 2012

Abstract Using product‐level data on trade between Canada and the U.S., this paper presents evidence of tariff evasion and violation of the rules of origin occurring under the Canada‐U.S. Free Trade Agreement (CUSFTA). It shows that more imports go unreported at the destination country when tariffs are higher. Consistent with the tariff evasion hypothesis, this result implies that the trade creation effect of a free trade agreement may in fact be due to less underreporting. Further, this paper shows that the larger Canadian tariff preference margin for the U.S. is associated with more goods originating in third countries being transshipped through the U.S. territory for re‐export. The preference margin is also positively correlated with the value of excess imports from the U.S., which qualify for preferential treatment. Both results suggest the presence of persistent violations of CUSFTA’s rules of origin.
Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in Centenarians and Octogenarians: A Case‐Matched Study
Authors: Moubarak Ghassan , Algalarrondo Vincent , Badenco Nicolas , Guiot Aurélie , Guillausseau Pierre‐Jean , Bergmann Jean‐François , Bardin Thomas , Leenhardt Antoine , Solal Alain Cohen
Published: August 2012

Backround: Centenarians have been proposed as a model of successful aging but recent studies suggest a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Some findings on their electrocardiograms (ECGs) are simply age‐related and others mirror underlying diseases. We aimed to identify ECG features truly associated with extreme age.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of 55 centenarians hospitalized between January 2000 and June 2010. Each centenarian was matched with three octogenarians according to gender, presence of hypertension, aortic stenosis, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease.

Results: A history of hypertension was present in 32 (58%) centenarians, aortic stenosis in 6 (11%), heart failure in 8 (15%), and ischemic heart disease in 6 (11%). Centenarians had a higher heart rate than octogenarians (81 ± 15 bpm vs. 72 ± 15 bpm, respectively, P  <  0.001) but were less frequently on beta‐blockers (7% vs. 36%, respectively, P < 0.001). Centenarians displayed more frequently atrial premature beats than octogenarians (18% vs. 3%, respectively, P < 0.001) but tended to have less atrial fibrillation (15% vs. 22% respectively, P = 0.21). Centenarians had more frequently left QRS axis deviation (48% vs. 28%, P = 0.009) and Q waves (14% vs. 1%, P = 0.02). QT interval was more prolonged in centenarians (446 ± 42 ms vs. 429 ± 39 ms, P = 0.008). Two centenarians (4%) and 24 (15%) octogenarians had a strictly normal ECG (P = 0.02).

Conclusions: Abnormal ECG is a common finding in centenarians, with different characteristics than in younger elderly individuals. These differences are unrelated to the presence of cardiac diseases.
Development and Validation of a Prognostic Index for Risk Stratification of Patients with Early Repolarization
Authors: Stavrakis Stavros , Patel Nishit , Te Charles , Golwala Harsh , George Augustine , Lozano Pedro , Lazzara Ralph
Published: August 2012

Background: Early repolarization (ER) is associated with increased mortality in the general population. We sought to develop and validate a prognostic index (PI) of mortality in patients with ER.

Methods: We identified 852 consecutive patients (mean age 49 ± 12 years) with ER (J‐point elevation ≥0.1 mV in inferior or lateral leads), from the VA electronic electrocardiogram (ECG) database. A random sample of age‐matched patients with normal ECG was used as control (n = 257). The initial cohort was randomly split into a derivation and a validation cohort (2/3 and 1/3 of patients, respectively). A PI was derived from the weighed sum of the regression coefficients of each independent risk factor in the final model using Cox regression analysis.

Results: During a median follow‐up of 6.4 years, 170 patients died. ER was associated with increased mortality compared to control (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.05–2.12; P = 0.03). Older age, lower body mass index, non‐African American race, current use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers or sulfonyureas, prolonged corrected QT (QTc), and higher ER amplitude independently predicted all‐cause mortality. Annualized mortality rates were 1.3%, 2.2%, and 3.7% in the low, intermediate, and high‐risk groups, respectively, in the derivation cohort (log rank P < 0.0001) and 0.8%, 1.9%, and 4.1% in the low, intermediate, and high‐risk groups, respectively, in the validation cohort (log rank P < 0.0001). Model discrimination was very good (c‐statistic = 0.85 and 0.80 for derivation and validation cohort, respectively).

Conclusions: A PI derived from simple clinical and ECG characteristics predicts mortality in patients with ER and may be used clinically for risk stratification.
Magnetocardiography for the Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease—A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Agarwal Rajender , Saini Abhimanyu , Alyousef Tareq , Umscheid Craig A.
Published: August 2012

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) has a significant disease burden making early diagnosis and management imperative. Magnetocardiography (MCG) is a relatively new noninvasive technique that allows diagnosis of CAD by recording the magnetic fields generated by the electrical activity of the heart.

Methods: We searched MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for prospective studies that evaluated the test characteristics (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios) of MCG for detection of CAD. Studies were included if they evaluated either patients with stable CAD documented by angiogram or patients presenting initially with acute coronary syndrome and subsequently diagnosed with CAD. The quality of included studies was assessed using an adaptation of the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) tool. We performed meta‐analyses of sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative likelihood ratios using Meta‐DiSc software.

Results: Screening of titles and abstracts followed by full‐text review yielded seven studies that met our inclusion criteria. Meta‐analyses yielded a pooled sensitivity of 83% (95% confidence interval [CI] 80% to 86%) and a specificity of 77% (95% CI 73% to 81%). The pooled positive likelihood ratio was 3.92 (95% CI 2.30 to 6.66) and negative likelihood ratio was 0.20 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.35). Significant heterogeneity was present in all meta‐analyses.

Conclusions: The pooled test characteristics for MCG are similar to those of existing noninvasive modalities for diagnosing CAD. Our results suggest that MCG is a potential complementary or alternative tool for noninvasive detection of CAD.
Push‐out bond strength of a nano‐modified mineral trioxide aggregate
Authors: Saghiri Mohammad Ali , Garcia‐Godoy Franklin , Gutmann James L. , Lotfi Mehrdad , Asatourian Armen , Ahmadi Hadi
Published: August 2012

Introduction

To analyze the push‐out bond strength of Angelus WMTA (Angelus Dental Products), a nano‐modification of WMTA (Kamal Asgar Research Center) and Bioaggregate (Innovative Bioceramix).

Methods

Sixty 2‐mm‐thick root sections were prepared from 60 single‐rooted human teeth. The dentin disks were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20) and filled with Angelus WMTA, Nano‐WMTA, or Bioaggregate, respectively. Push‐out bond strength values of the specimens were measured by a universal testing machine and examined under scanning electron microscope at × 40 magnification to determine the nature of the bond failure. The data were analyzed with a Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

The greatest mean for push‐out bond strength (138.48 ± 11.43 MPa) was observed for the nano‐modification of WMTA. The values decreased to 110.73 ± 11.19 and 25.64 ± 5.27 MPa for Angelus WMTA and Bioaggregate, respectively. There were significant differences between the groups (P < 0.001). Inspection of the samples revealed the bond failure to be predominantly adhesive type except for the nano‐modification group, as some samples also exhibited cohesive failures.

Conclusions

It is concluded that the force needed for the displacement of the nano‐modification of WMTA (NWMTA) was significantly higher than for Angelus WMTA and Bioaggregate.
HEALTHY Study School Food Service Revenue and Expense Report
Authors: Treviño Roberto P. , Pham Trang , Mobley Connie , Hartstein Jill , Ghormli Laure El , Songer Thomas
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Food service directors have a concern that federal reimbursement is not meeting the demands of increasing costs of healthier meals. The purpose of this article is to report the food option changes and the annual revenues and expenses of the school food service environment.

METHODS: The HEALTHY study was a 3‐year (2006 to 2009) randomized, cluster‐designed trial conducted in 42 middle schools at 7 field centers. The schools selected had at least 50% of students who were eligible for free or reduced‐price lunch or who belonged to a minority group. A randomly assigned half of the HEALTHY schools received a school health intervention program consisting of 4 integrated components: nutrition, physical activity, behavioral knowledge and skills, and social marketing. The nutrition component consisted of changing the meal plans to meet 5 nutrition goals. Revenue and expense data were collected from income statements, federal meal records, à la carte sale sheets, school store sale sheets, donated money/food records, and vending machines.

RESULTS: Although more intervention schools reached the nutritional goals than control schools, revenues and expenses were not significantly different between groups.

CONCLUSION: The HEALTHY study showed no adverse effect of school food policies on food service finances.
An Experimental Assessment of Physical Educators' Expectations and Attitudes: The Importance of Student Weight and Gender
Authors: Peterson Jamie Lee , Puhl Rebecca M. , Luedicke Joerg
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: At school, physical education (PE) teachers and coaches may be key supports for physical activity. Unfortunately, PE teachers may endorse negative stereotypes and attitudes toward overweight youth. These biases may influence the amount of instruction physical educators provide to students and their participation in PE or other physical activity.

METHODS: This study assessed physical educators' (N = 162) ability and performance expectations, attributions, and attitudes toward overweight and non‐overweight students.

RESULTS: Physical educators endorsed inferior ability expectations for overweight students compared to non‐overweight students. Poorer performance expectations were limited to overweight female targets, but when controlling for participant characteristics, this effect became marginally significant for overweight male targets. There was a trend such that participants endorsed more external attributions for the abilities and performance of overweight female students, yet this effect was reduced to marginal significance when controlling for participant characteristics. Participants endorsed more negative attitudes for both overweight males and females compared to non‐overweight youth.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings indicate that physical educators' expectations, attributions, and attitudes regarding students may be negatively influenced by youth body weight, and differ by student gender. The potential effect of physical educators' weight bias on adolescent participation in physical activity and its implications for students' physical health, academic achievement, and social development are discussed.
Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Grain and Fractions: Antioxidant Compounds and Activities
Authors: Sedej Ivana , Sakač Marijana , Mandić Anamarija , Mišan Aleksandra , Tumbas Vesna , Čanadanović‐Brunet Jasna
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is an alternative crop belonging to the Polygonaceae family. In comparison to antioxidant activity of frequently used cereals, buckwheat has been reported to possess higher antioxidant activity (AOA), mainly due to high rutin content. The objective of this work was to determine the main antioxidant compounds and AOA of buckwheat grain fractions (whole grain, hull, and groat). Buckwheat grain fractions were extracted with ethanol/water (80/20, v/v), followed by determination of total phenolic and flavonoid content. Quantification of phenolic compounds and tocopherols was performed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The AOA was estimated by 2 direct electron spin resonance (ESR) and 4 indirect (spectrophotometric) tests. Significantly higher contents of total phenolics and total flavonoids were found in buckwheat hull than in whole grain and groat. Protocatechuic, syringic, and sinapic acid, rutin, and quercetin were found in all tested fractions, whereas vanilic acid was found in whole grain and hull. The content of total tocopherols in investigated samples ranged from 23.3 mmol/g for hull to 61.8 mmol/g for groat. Hull was superior in scavenging activity on 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), hydroxyl (•OH), and superoxide anion (O2•‐) radicals, reducing activity, AOA by β‐carotene bleaching method, and chelating activity on Fe2+ as evidenced by its lower IC50 value. Obtained results can broaden the utilization of buckwheat, especially a share of hull in whole grain flour production.

Practical Application:  Obtained results suggest possibility to supplement the whole grain buckwheat flour with hull, which leads toward better usage of by‐products in buckwheat production, and enhancement of antioxidant potential of the final product.
Comparative Effectiveness Analysis of Amlodipine/Renin‐Angiotensin System Blocker Combinations
Authors: Ram C. Venkata S. , Vasey Joseph , Panjabi Sumeet , Qian Chunlin , Quah Ruth
Published: August 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012; 14:601–610. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A comparative effectiveness analysis of antihypertensive therapy amlodipine (AML) and angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) fixed‐ and loose‐dose combinations (FDCs and LDCs) in achieving blood pressure (BP) reduction and Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7) goal attainment was made using retrospective electronic medical record (EMR) data. Treatment goal rates ranged from 35.0% for LDC AML/losartan to 45.7% for FDC AML/olmesartan (OM). FDC AML/OM achieved significantly greater reductions in systolic BP than FDC AML/benazepril (BEN), FDC AML/valsartan (VAL), and LDC AML/ARBs, respectively, and significantly greater reductions in diastolic BP than FDC AML/VAL and LDC therapy, respectively. Compared with patients treated with AML/OM, patients prescribed AML/VAL and LDC AML/ARB were significantly less likely to attain JNC 7 BP goal. Among subpopulations, AML/OM yielded higher rates of goal attainment among both African Americans and obese/overweight patients relative to AML/VAL and combined LDCs. Switchers from monotherapy with AML, OM, or VAL to AML/OM were significantly more likely to attain JNC 7 goals than those switching to AML/VAL or AML/BEN.
Dental health of homeless adults in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Figueiredo Rafael L. F. , Hwang Stephen W. , Quiñonez Carlos
Published: August 2012

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the oral health status of the Toronto adult homeless population; to learn how they perceive their own oral health; and to correlate the presence of oral disease with length of homelessness and unemployment.

Methods: This cross‐sectional descriptive study collected data from 191 homeless adults who were randomly selected using a stratified cluster sample at 18 shelters. A questionnaire and clinical oral examination were conducted with participants.

Results: The mean Decayed/Missing/Filled Teeth (DMFT) score of the subjects was 14.4 (SD = 8.1). Only 32% of them had visited a dentist during the last year, 75% believed that they had untreated dental conditions, and 40% had their last dental visit for emergency care. The clinical oral examination observed that 88% needed fillings, 70% periodontal, 60% prosthodontic, and 40% emergency treatment.

Conclusion: Homeless adults in Toronto have poor oral health, significant oral health treatment needs, and a lack of access to dental care.
Poor oral health as an obstacle to employment for Medicaid beneficiaries with disabilities
Authors: Hall Jean P. , Chapman Shawna L. Carroll , Kurth Noelle K.
Published: August 2012

Objectives: To inform policy with better information about the oral health‐care needs of a Medicaid population that engages in employment, that is, people ages 16 to 64 with Social Security‐determined disabilities enrolled in a Medicaid Buy‐In program.

Methods: Statistically test for significant differences among responses to a Medicaid Buy‐In program satisfaction survey that included oral health questions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) to results for the state's general population and the US general population.

Results: All measures of dental care access and oral health were significantly worse for the study population as compared with a state general population or a US general population. Differences were particularly pronounced for the OHIP measure for difficulty doing one's job due to dental problems, which was almost five times higher for the study population.

Conclusions: More comprehensive dental benefits for the study population could result in increased oral and overall health, and eventual cost savings to Medicaid as more people work, have improved health, and pay premiums for coverage.
Deep inspiration breath hold technique reduces heart dose from radiotherapy for left‐sided breast cancer
Authors: Hayden Amy J , Rains Melissa , Tiver Kenneth
Published: August 2012

Introduction: Adjuvant left breast radiotherapy (ALBR) for breast cancer can result in significant radiation dose to the heart. Current evidence suggests a dose–response relationship between the risk of cardiac morbidity and radiation dose to cardiac volumes. This study explores the potential benefit of utilising a deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) technique to reduce cardiac doses.

Methods: Thirty patients with left‐sided breast cancer underwent CT‐simulation scans in free breathing (FB) and DIBH. Treatment plans were generated using a hybrid intensity‐modulated radiation therapy technique with simultaneous integrated boost. A dosimetric comparison was made between the two techniques for the heart, left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), left lung and contralateral breast.

Results: Compared with FB, DIBH resulted in a significant reduction in heart V30 (7.1 vs. 2.4%, P < 0.0001), mean heart dose (6.9 vs. 3.9 Gy, P < 0.001), maximum LAD planning risk volume (PRV) dose, (51.6 vs. 45.6 Gy, P = 0.0032) and the mean LAD PRV dose (31.7 vs. 21.9 Gy, P < 0.001). No significant difference was noted for lung V20, mean lung dose or mean dose to the contralateral breast. The DIBH plans demonstrated significantly larger total lung volumes (1126 vs. 2051 cc, P < 0.0001), smaller maximum heart depth (2.08 vs. 1.17 cm, P < 0.0001) and irradiated heart volume (36.9 vs. 12.1 cc, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: DIBH resulted in a significant reduction in radiation dose to the heart and LAD compared with an FB technique for ALBR. Ongoing research is required to determine optimal cardiac dose constraints and methods of predicting which patients will derive the most benefit from a DIBH technique.
Inter‐Korean Trade and the 2002 Nuclear Crisis: Influence and Effect*
Authors: Sung Ki‐Young
Published: August 2012

Scholars in international relations have largely agreed that militarized international conflict and tension tend to cause business elites to decrease or adjust trade flows with adversary nations. Unlike this widely accepted conclusion, the trade relationship between South and North Korea under the nuclear confrontation (2002–2006) showed a steady growth despite the rising military tension caused by the North's continued attempts for nuclear development. This study analyzes under what conditions the international conflict did not undermine existing level of trade and investment flows and which factors predominantly affected the actors' behavior by focusing on South Korean traders. It will conclude that a substantial change of actors and dynamics that framed inter‐Korean relations after the first‐ever summit talks in 2000 enabled the traders to continue to engage North Korea even under the nuclear crisis. In terms of what actually motivated South Korean traders in these transactions, it will argue that South Korean domestic economic needs that desperately sought out a lower‐cost production base overseas provided a key driving force for them to risk the military instability and to pursue trade utility in that situation. This study will prove this argument by providing a result of the semi‐structured survey of South Korean entrepreneurs who actually were involved in the inter‐Korean trade during this particular period. Through this case study, this paper will argue that economic gain of private firms from a trading relationship with their hostile counterpart provides a justifiable causal mechanism during this particular period to continue economic transactions under the crisis.
Foreign direct investment strategies by developing country multinationals: A diagnostic model for home country effects
Authors: Luo Yadong , Wang Stephanie Lu
Published: August 2012

We explore how home country conditions affect outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) strategies (scale, timing, location) employed by developing country multinational corporations (DMNCs). Extending from the springboard and LLL (leverage, linkage, and learning) perspectives, we illustrate that DMNCs rely on their home base during their internalization process in a unique fashion compared with traditional multinationals due to their well‐established strengths at home and competitive weaknesses overseas. Our survey of 153 DMNCs from China shows that, beyond the host country impacts that have been widely studied, DMNCs' overseas investment strategies are influenced by home country environment parameters, including economic growth, perceived institutional hardship, competitive pressure, and by their home country operational characteristics, including inward internationalization, innovation orientation, and business development stage.
2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin-modified SLN of paclitaxel for overcoming p-glycoprotein function in multidrug-resistant breast cancer cells
Authors: Baek Jong-Suep , Cho Cheong-Weon
Published: August 2012

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) of paclitaxel (PTX) modified with a 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin system to enhance cellular accumulation of PTX into p-glycoprotein (p-gp)-expressing cells.

Methods

The PTX-loaded-SLNs consisted of lipid (stearic acid) and surfactants (lecithin and poloxamer 188) and were then modified with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin by a sonication method.

Key findings

In terms of cytotoxicity, PTX-loaded SLNs modified with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin showed higher cytotoxicity than other formulations. In particular, the cellular uptake of PTX from PTX-loaded SLNs modified with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin was about 5.8- and 1.5-fold higher than that from PTX solution and unmodified PTX-loaded SLNs in MCF-7/ADR cells, respectively. After a 4-h incubation, clear fluorescence images inside cells were observed over time. When PTX-loaded SLNs modified with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin were incubated with MCF-7/ADR cells for 4 h, cellular uptake of PTX increased 1.7-fold versus that of PTX in the presence of verapamil.

Conclusions

These results suggest that optimized SLNs modified with 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin may have potential as an oral drug delivery system for PTX.
A phantom for testing of 4D‐CT for radiotherapy of small lesions
Authors: Dunn L. , Kron T. , Taylor M. L. , Callahan J. , Franich R. D.
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

The use of time‐resolved four‐dimensional computed tomography (4D‐CT) in radiotherapy requires strict quality assurance to ensure the accuracy of motion management protocols. The aim of this work was to design and test a phantom capable of large amplitude motion for use in 4D‐CT, with particular interest in small lesions typical for stereotactic body radiotherapy.

Methods:

The phantom of “see‐saw” design is light weight, capable of including various sample materials and compatible with several surrogate marker signal acquisition systems. It is constructed of polymethylmethacrylate (Perspex) and its movement is controlled via a dc motor and drive wheel. It was tested using two CT scanners with different 4D acquisition methods: the Philips Brilliance Big Bore CT (helical scan, pressure belt) and a General Electric Discovery STE PET/CT (axial scan, infrared marker). Amplitudes ranging from 1.5 to 6.0 cm and frequencies of up to 40 cycles per minute were used to study the effect of motion on image quality. Maximum intensity projections (MIPs), as well as average intensity projections (AIPs) of moving objects were investigated and their quality dependence on the number of phase reconstruction bins assessed.

Results:

CT number discrepancies between moving and stationary objects were found to have no systematic dependence on amplitude, frequency, or specific interphase variability. MIP‐delineated amplitudes of motion were found to match physical phantom amplitudes to within 2 mm for all motion scenarios tested. Objects undergoing large amplitude motions (>3.0 cm) were shown to cause artefacts in MIP and AIP projections when ten phase bins were assigned. This problem can be mitigated by increasing the number of phase bins in a 4D‐CT scan.

Conclusions:

The phantom was found to be a suitable tool for evaluating the image quality of 4D‐CT motion management technology, as well as providing a quality assurance tool for intercenter/intervendor testing of commercial 4D‐CT systems. When imaging objects with large amplitudes, the completeness criterion described here indicates the number of phase bins required to prevent missing data in MIPs and AIPs. This is most relevant for small lesions undergoing large motions.
BRIEF REVIEW OF THE SEARCHES FOR THE RARE DECAYS $B^0_{s}\to\mu^+\mu^-$ and $B^0\to\mu^+\mu^-$
Authors: ALBRECHT JOHANNES
Published: August 2012

The current experimental status of the searches for the very rare decays [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is discussed. These channels are highly sensitive to various extensions of the Standard Model, especially in the scalar and pseudoscalar sector. The recent, most sensitive measurements from the CDF, ATLAS, CMS and LHCb collaborations are discussed and the combined upper exclusion limit on the branching fractions determined by the LHC experiments is shown to be 4.2×10-9 for [Formula: see text] and 0.8×10-9 for [Formula: see text]. The implications of these tight bounds on a selected set of New Physics models is sketched.
NON-COMMUTATIVE STONE DUALITY: INVERSE SEMIGROUPS, TOPOLOGICAL GROUPOIDS AND C*-ALGEBRAS
Authors: LAWSON M. V.
Published: August 2012

We study a non-commutative generalization of Stone duality that connects a class of inverse semigroups, called Boolean inverse ∧-semigroups, with a class of topological groupoids, called Hausdorff Boolean groupoids. Much of the paper is given over to showing that Boolean inverse ∧-semigroups arise as completions of inverse ∧-semigroups we call pre-Boolean. An inverse ∧-semigroup is pre-Boolean if and only if every tight filter is an ultrafilter, where tight filters are defined by combining ideas of both Exel and Lenz. A simple necessary condition for a semigroup to be pre-Boolean is derived and a variety of examples of inverse semigroups are shown to satisfy it. Thus the polycyclic inverse monoids, and certain Rees matrix semigroups over the polycyclics, are pre-Boolean and it is proved that the groups of units of their completions are precisely the Thompson–Higman groups Gn, r. The inverse semigroups arising from suitable directed graphs are also pre-Boolean and the topological groupoids arising from these graph inverse semigroups under our non-commutative Stone duality are the groupoids that arise from the Cuntz–Krieger C*-algebras. An elementary application of our theory shows that the finite, fundamental Boolean inverse ∧-semigroups are just the finite direct products of finite symmetric inverse monoids. Finally, we explain how tight filters are related to prime filters setting the scene for future work.
AUTOMATED DIAGNOSIS OF CARDIAC HEALTH USING RECURRENCE QUANTIFICATION ANALYSIS
Authors: KRISHNAN M. MUTHU RAMA , SREE S. VINITHA , GHISTA DHANJOO N. , NG EDDIE Y. K. , SWAPNA  , ANG ALVIN P. C. , NG KWAN-HOONG , SURI JASJIT S.
Published: August 2012

The sum total of millions of cardiac cell depolarization potentials can be represented using an electrocardiogram (ECG). By inspecting the P-QRS-T wave in the ECG of a patient, the cardiac health can be diagnosed. Since the amplitude and duration of the ECG signal are too small, subtle changes in the ECG signal are very difficult to be deciphered. In this work, the heart rate variability (HRV) signal has been used as the base signal to observe the functioning of the heart. The HRV signal is non-linear and non-stationary. Recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) has been used to extract the important features from the heart rate signals. These features were fed to the fuzzy, Gaussian mixture model (GMM), and probabilistic neural network (PNN) classifiers for automated classification of cardiac bio-electrical contractile disorders. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) was used to test the performance of the classifiers. In our work, the Fuzzy classifier performed better than the other classifiers and demonstrated an average classification accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of more than 83%. The developed system is suitable to evaluate large datasets.
VOLCANO PLOTS IN ANALYZING DIFFERENTIAL EXPRESSIONS WITH mRNA MICROARRAYS
Authors: LI WENTIAN
Published: August 2012

A volcano plot displays unstandardized signal (e.g. log-fold-change) against noise-adjusted/standardized signal (e.g. t-statistic or -log10(p-value) from the t-test). We review the basic and interactive use of the volcano plot and its crucial role in understanding the regularized t-statistic. The joint filtering gene selection criterion based on regularized statistics has a curved discriminant line in the volcano plot, as compared to the two perpendicular lines for the "double filtering" criterion. This review attempts to provide a unifying framework for discussions on alternative measures of differential expression, improved methods for estimating variance, and visual display of a microarray analysis result. We also discuss the possibility of applying volcano plots to other fields beyond microarray.
Size-controlled assemblies of porphyrin-modified pullulan photosensitizers
Authors: Song Ji-Ye , Kong Hyoung Jun , Choi Myung-Seok
Published: August 2012

Pullulan conjugates (i.e. PFP1, PFP4) formed via DCC/DMAP coupling of porphyrin derivatives possessing one (P1) or four (P4) carboxylic acid moieties with folate-appended pullulans (PF) were prepared for application as photosensitizers (PS) for photodynamic therapy. To maximize the desired PS characteristics, the assembly size of PS should be less than 200 nm in water medium. In a PBS buffer solution, PFP4 forms smaller assemblies (~100 nm) than PFP1 (~320 nm) due to its enhanced intramolecular hydrophilicity.
A Role of Fluoride on Free Radical Generation and Oxidative Stress in BV-2 Microglia Cells
Authors: Shuhua Xi , Ziyou Liu , Ling Yan , Fei Wang , Sun Guifan
Published: August 2012

The generation of ROS and lipid peroxidation has been considered to play an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic fluoride toxicity. In the present study, we observed that fluoride activated BV-2 microglia cell line by observing OX-42 expression in immunocytochemistry. Intracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide anions (O2∙-), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), nitrotyrosine (NT) and nitric oxide (NO), NOS in cell medium were determined for oxidative stress assessment. Our study found that NaF of concentration from 5 to 20 mg/L can stimuli BV-2 cells to change into activated microglia displaying upregulated OX-42 expression. SOD activities significantly decreased in fluoride-treated BV-2 cells as compared with control, and MDA concentrations and contents of ROS andO2∙-increased in NaF-treated cells. Activities of NOS in cells and medium significantly increased with fluoride concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. NT concentrations also increased significantly in 10 and 50 mg/L NaF-treated cells compared with the control cells. Our present study demonstrated that toxic effects of fluoride on the central nervous system possibly partly ascribed to activiting of microglia, which enhanced oxidative stress induced by ROS and reactive nitrogen species.
Genu Recurvatum Deformity in a Child due to Salter Harris Type V Fracture of the Proximal Tibial Physis Treated with High Tibial Dome Osteotomy
Authors: Beslikas Theodoros , Christodoulou Andreas , Chytas Anastasios , Gigis Ioannis , Christoforidis John
Published: August 2012

Salter-Harris type V fracture is a very rare injury in the immature skeleton. In most cases, it remains undiagnosed and untreated. We report a case of genu recurvatum deformity in a 15-year-old boy caused by a Salter-Harris type V fracture of the proximal tibial physis. The initial X-ray did not reveal fracture. One year after injury, genu recurvatum deformity was detected associated with significant restriction of knee flexion and limp length discrepancy (2 cm) as well as medial and posterior instability of the joint. Further imaging studies revealed anterior bone bridge of the proximal tibial physis. The deformity was treated with a high tibial dome osteotomy combined with a tibial tubercle osteotomy stabilized with malleolar screws and a cast. Two years after surgery, the patient gained functional knee mobility without clinical instability. Firstly, this case highlights the importance of early identification of this rare lesion (Salter-Harris type V fracture) and, secondly, provides an alternative method of treatment for genu recurvatum deformity.
The Effect of Antihelminthic Treatment on Subjects with Asthma from an Endemic Area of Schistosomiasis: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Almeida Maria Cecilia F. , Lima Givaneide S. , Cardoso Luciana S. , Souza Robson P. de , Campos Régis A. , Cruz Alvaro A. , Figueiredo Joanemile P. , Oliveira Ricardo R. , Carvalho Edgar M. , Araujo Maria Ilma
Published: August 2012

This is a prospective, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trial evaluating the influence of antihelminthic treatments on asthma severity in individuals living in an endemic area of schistosomiasis. Patients from group 1 received placebo of Albendazole or of Praziquantel and from group 2 received Albendazole and Praziquantel. Asthma severity was assessed by clinical scores and by pulmonary function test. There was no significant difference in the asthma scores from D0 to D1–D7 after Albendazole or Praziquantel and from D0 to D30–90 after Albendazole or Praziquantel in both, group 1 and 2. It was observed, however, a clinical worsening of the overall studied population after 6 months and 12 months of antihelminthic treatments. Additionally, we observed increased frequency of forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)<80% on 12 and 18 months after treatment. The worsening of asthma severity after repeated antihelminthic treatments is consistent with the hypothesis of the protective role conferred by helminths in atopic diseases.
Advances in Bacteriophage-Mediated Control of Plant Pathogens
Authors: Frampton Rebekah A. , Pitman Andrew R. , Fineran Peter C.
Published: August 2012

There is continuing pressure to maximise food production given a growing global human population. Bacterial pathogens that infect important agricultural plants (phytopathogens) can reduce plant growth and the subsequent crop yield. Currently, phytopathogens are controlled through management programmes, which can include the application of antibiotics and copper sprays. However, the emergence of resistant bacteria and the desire to reduce usage of toxic products that accumulate in the environment mean there is a need to develop alternative control agents. An attractive option is the use of specific bacteriophages (phages), viruses that specifically kill bacteria, providing a more targeted approach. Typically, phages that target the phytopathogen are isolated and characterised to determine that they have features required for biocontrol. In addition, suitable formulation and delivery to affected plants are necessary to ensure the phages survive in the environment and do not have a deleterious effect on the plant or target beneficial bacteria. Phages have been isolated for different phytopathogens and have been used successfully in a number of trials and commercially. In this paper, we address recent progress in phage-mediated control of plant pathogens and overcoming the challenges, including those posed by CRISPR/Cas and abortive infection resistance systems.
Surgical Ligation of Extrahepatic Shunt under Guidance of Doppler Ultrasound, Portography, and Portal Pressure Monitoring
Authors: Shimoda Mitsugi , Shimizu Takayuki , Kubota Keiichi
Published: August 2012

A 54-year-old man with chronic hepatitis C was admitted to our hospital because of a disturbance of consciousness and hyperammonemia. Abdominal angiography revealed a portosystemic shunt between the superior mesenteric vein and inferior vena cava. Endoscopic examination showed no varix. As interventional treatment was unsuccessful, surgical ligation of the shunt was performed. After surgery, portography revealed a huge shunt. Before ligation, the portal pressure, portal flow speed, and volume at the umbilical portion were 24 H2O. 5.6 cm/s and 203 ml/min, respectively. Finally the shunt was ligated. The portal flow speed and volume increased for 14 days following surgery and then stabilized. No varices were observed postoperatively. Doppler ultrasound, portography, and portal pressure monitoring can be used to reveal haemodynamic changes in the portal system and justify surgical ligation of portosystemic shunt.
Cleansing Formulations That Respect Skin Barrier Integrity
Authors: Walters Russel M. , Mao Guangru , Gunn Euen T. , Hornby Sidney
Published: August 2012

Surfactants in skin cleansers interact with the skin in several manners. In addition to the desired benefit of providing skin hygiene, surfactants also extract skin components during cleansing and remain in the stratum corneum (SC) after rinsing. These side effects disrupt SC structure and degrade its barrier properties. Recent applications of vibrational spectroscopy and two-photon microscopy in skin research have provided molecular-level information to facilitate our understanding of the interaction between skin and surfactant. In the arena of commercial skin cleansers, technologies have been developed to produce cleansers that both cleanse and respect skin barrier. The main approach is to minimize surfactant interaction with skin through altering its solution properties. Recently, hydrophobically modified polymers (HMPs) have been introduced to create skin compatible cleansing systems. At the presence of HMP, surfactants assemble into larger, more stable structures. These structures are less likely to penetrate the skin, thereby resulting in less aggressive cleansers and the integrity of the skin barrier is maintained. In this paper, we reviewed our recent findings on surfactant and SC interactions at molecular level and provided an overview of the HM technology for developing cleansers that respect skin barrier.
Increased Mesohippocampal Dopaminergic Activity and Improved Depression-Like Behaviors in Maternally Separated Rats Following Repeated Fasting/Refeeding Cycles
Authors: Jahng Jeong Won , Yoo Sang Bae , Kim Jin Young , Kim Bom-Taeck , Lee Jong-Ho
Published: August 2012

We have previously reported that rats that experienced 3 h of daily maternal separation during the first 2 weeks of birth (MS) showed binge-like eating behaviors with increased activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis when they were subjected to fasting/refeeding cycles repeatedly. In this study, we have examined the psychoemotional behaviors of MS rats on the fasting/refeeding cycles, together with their brain dopamine levels. Fasting/refeeding cycles normalized the ambulatory activity of MS rats, which was decreased by MS experience. Depression-like behaviors, but not anxiety, by MS experience were improved after fasting/refeeding cycles. Fasting/refeeding cycles did not significantly affect the behavioral scores of nonhandled (NH) control rats. Fasting/refeeding cycles increased dopamine levels not only in the hippocampus but also in the midbrain dopaminergic neurons in MS rats, but not in NH controls. Results demonstrate that fasting/refeeding cycles increase the mesohippocampal dopaminergic activity and improve depression-like behaviors in rats that experienced MS. Together with our previous paper, it is suggested that increased dopamine neurotransmission in the hippocampus may be implicated in the underlying mechanisms by which the fasting/refeeding cycles induce binge-like eating and improve depression-like behaviors in MS rats.
Yeast Colonies: A Model for Studies of Aging, Environmental Adaptation, and Longevity
Authors: Váchová Libuše , Čáp Michal , Palková Zdena
Published: August 2012

When growing on solid surfaces, yeast, like other microorganisms, develops organized multicellular populations (colonies and biofilms) that are composed of differentiated cells with specialized functions. Life within these populations is a prevalent form of microbial existence in natural settings that provides the cells with capabilities to effectively defend against environmental attacks as well as efficiently adapt and survive long periods of starvation and other stresses. Under such circumstances, the fate of an individual yeast cell is subordinated to the profit of the whole population. In the past decade, yeast colonies, with their complicated structure and high complexity that are also developed under laboratory conditions, have become an excellent model for studies of various basic cellular processes such as cell interaction, signaling, and differentiation. In this paper, we summarize current knowledge on the processes related to chronological aging, adaptation, and longevity of a colony cell population and of its differentiated cell constituents. These processes contribute to the colony ability to survive long periods of starvation and mostly differ from the survival strategies of individual yeast cells.