Functionalized Hyperbranched Polyethylenimines as Thermosensitive Drug Delivery Nanocarriers with Controlled Transition Temperatures.

The low critical solution temperature phase transition (T) that is exhibited by thermosensitive polymers is strongly dependent on polymer concentration, pH, ionic strength, as well as the presence of specific molecules or ions in solution. Therefore, polymers with T values above 37 °C that are useful for hyperthermia therapy are not readily available. In the present study, temperature-sensitive hyperbranched polyethylenimine derivatives were developed through stepwise functionalization with isobutylamide groups.

Estimating life expectancy of the population in Cyprus with the use of life tables.

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the life expectancy of the Cypriot population between 1986 and 2012.

Material And Methods: We used the data reported in the annual editions of the Statistical Service of Cyprus and constructed life tables of the Cypriot population between 1986 and 2012.

Results: For both genders, and for males and females separately, in the year 1986 life expectancy accounted 74.

Association of occupational exposures and work characteristics with the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders.

Background: Work is a daily activity with various conditions, exposures, and habits that may affect health either positively or negatively. Aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between occupational factors and conditions, and the occurrence of gastrointestinal disorders.

Methods: We enrolled in this study a sample of 891 consecutive individuals, who were examined by standard colonoscopy and gastroscopy and interviewed regarding their working conditions and exposures.

Investigation of thyroid nodules in the female population in Cyprus and in Romania.

Background And Aims: The most common thyroid disorders, with an increasing detection worldwide, are the thyroid nodules and thyroiditis, which leads to an increase of thyroid cancer incidence . In two different countries with a different exposure to risk factors for thyroid cancer, such as Cyprus and Romania, the rank of thyroid cancer among other neoplasms is very different: the 3(rd) most prevalent cancer among females in Cyprus and the 12(th) in Romania, respectively. Environmental chemicals, such as bisphenol A have a proven effect on the thyroid function.

Second-trimester screening for trisomy-21 using prefrontal space ratio.

Objective: To investigate the potential value of prefrontal space ratio (PFSR) in second-trimester screening for trisomy-21.

Methods: A retrospective study utilizing stored midsagittal two-dimensional images of fetal profiles in 240 euploid and 45 trisomy-21 pregnancies at 16(+0)-23(+6) weeks' gestation. The vertical distance between the leading edge of the skull and that of the skin (D1) and the distance between the skull and the mandibulo-maxillary line (D2) were measured and the D1:D2 ratio (PFSR) was calculated.