bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery of a small-molecule type II inhibitor of wild-type and gatekeeper mutants of BCR-ABL, PDGFRα, Kit, and Src kinases: novel type II inhibitor of gatekeeper mutants
Authors: Weisberg Ellen , Choi Hwan Geun , Ray Arghya , Barrett Rosemary , Zhang Jianming , Sim Taebo , Zhou Wenjun , Seeliger Markus , Cameron Michael , Azam Mohammed , Fletcher Jonathan A. , Debiec-Rychter Maria , Mayeda Mark , Moreno Daisy , Kung Andrew L. , Janne Pasi Antero , Khosravi-Far Roya , Melo Junia V. , Manley Paul W. , Adamia Sophia , Wu Catherine , Gray Nathanael , Griffin James D.
Published: March 2010

Many clinically validated kinases, such as BCR-ABL, c-Kit, PDGFR, and EGFR, become resistant to adenosine triphosphate-competitive inhibitors through mutation of the so-called gatekeeper amino acid from a threonine to a large hydrophobic amino acid, such as an isoleucine or methionine. We have developed a new class of adenosine triphosphate competitive inhibitors, exemplified by HG-7-85-01, which is capable of inhibiting T315I- BCR-ABL (clinically observed in chronic myeloid leukemia), T670I-c-Kit (clinically observed in gastrointestinal stromal tumors), and T674I/M-PDGFRα (clinically observed in hypereosinophilic syndrome). HG-7-85-01 is unique among all currently reported kinase inhibitors in having the ability to accommodate either a gatekeeper threonine, present in the wild-type forms of these kinases, or a large hydrophobic amino acid without becoming a promiscuous kinase inhibitor. The distinctive ability of HG-7-85-01 to simultaneously inhibit both wild-type and mutant forms of several kinases of clinical relevance is an important step in the development of the next generation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Arterial and venous thrombosis in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and multiple myeloma: a population-based study
Authors: Kristinsson Sigurdur Y. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Björkholm Magnus , Goldin Lynn R. , Schulman Sam , Blimark Cecilie , Mellqvist Ulf-Henrik , Wahlin Anders , Turesson Ingemar , Landgren Ola
Published: March 2010

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) have an increased risk of venous thrombosis. Interestingly, excess risk of venous thromboembolism has been observed among patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Using population-based data from Sweden, we assessed the risks of venous and arterial thrombosis in 18 627 MM and 5326 MGUS patients diagnosed from 1958 to 2006, compared with 70 991 and 20 161 matched controls, respectively. At 1, 5, and 10 years after MM diagnosis, there was an increased risk of venous thrombosis: hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 7.5 (6.4-8.9), 4.6 (4.1-5.1), and 4.1 (3.8-4.5), respectively. The corresponding results for arterial thrombosis were 1.9 (1.8-2.1), 1.5 (1.4-1.6), and 1.5 (1.4-1.5). At 1, 5, and 10 years after MGUS diagnosis, hazard ratios were 3.4 (2.5-4.6), 2.1 (1.7-2.5), and 2.1 (1.8-2.4) for venous thrombosis. The corresponding risks for arterial thrombosis were 1.7 (1.5-1.9), 1.3 (1.2-1.4), and 1.3 (1.3-1.4). IgG/IgA (but not IgM) MGUS patients had increased risks for venous and arterial thrombosis. Risks for thrombosis did not vary by M-protein concentration (> 10.0 g/L or < 10.0 g/L) at diagnosis. MGUS patients with (vs without) thrombosis had no excess risk of MM or Waldenström macroglobulinemia. Our findings are of relevance for future studies and for improvement of thrombosis prophylaxis strategies.
Phase 1/2 and extension study of velaglucerase alfa replacement therapy in adults with type 1 Gaucher disease: 48-month experience
Authors: Zimran Ari , Altarescu Gheona , Philips Mici , Attias Drorit , Jmoudiak Marina , Deeb Maher , Wang Nan , Bhirangi Kiran , Cohn Gabriel M. , Elstein Deborah
Published: March 2010

Enzyme replacement therapy is the standard of care for symptomatic Gaucher disease. Velaglucerase alfa is a human β-glucocerebrosidase produced in a well-characterized human cell line. A 9-month phase 1/2 open-label, single-center trial and ongoing extension study were conducted to evaluate safety and efficacy of velaglucerase alfa. Twelve symptomatic adult type 1 Gaucher patients (intact spleens) received velaglucerase alfa (60 U/kg per infusion) during phase 1/2. An extension study was offered to patients completing the trial; step-wise dose reduction (to 30 U/kg per infusion) was instituted. Eleven patients completed phase 1/2; 10 entered the extension; 9 patients reached 39 months of extension. No drug-related serious adverse events or withdrawals, and no antibodies were observed. Home therapy was successfully implemented during the extension. Statistically significant improvements (P < .004) were noted in mean percentage change from baseline to 9 months and baseline to 48 months for hemoglobin (+19.2%, +21.7%, respectively), platelet counts (+67.6%, +157.8%, respectively), normalized liver volume (−18.2%, −42.8%, respectively), and normalized spleen volume (−49.5%, −79.3%, respectively). These significant clinical changes and safety profile led to phase 3 trials and highlight the potential of velaglucerase alfa as alternative therapy for type 1 Gaucher disease. The extension trial is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00391625.
Genetic evidence supports linguistic affinity of Mlabri - a hunter-gatherer group in Thailand
Authors: Xu Shuhua , Kangwanpong Daoroong , Seielstad Mark , Srikummool Metawee , Kampuansai Jatupol , Jin Li ,   The HUGO Pan-Asian SNP Consortium*
Published: March 2010

Background

The Mlabri are a group of nomadic hunter-gatherers inhabiting the rural highlands of Thailand. Little is known about the origins of the Mlabri and linguistic evidence suggests that the present-day Mlabri language most likely arose from Tin, a Khmuic language in the Austro-Asiatic language family. This study aims to examine whether the genetic affinity of the Mlabri is consistent with this linguistic relationship, and to further explore the origins of this enigmatic population.

Results

We conducted a genome-wide analysis of genetic variation using more than fifty thousand single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) typed in thirteen population samples from Thailand, including the Mlabri, Htin and neighboring populations of the Northern Highlands, speaking Austro-Asiatic, Tai-Kadai and Hmong-Mien languages. The Mlabri population showed higher LD and lower haplotype diversity when compared with its neighboring populations. Both model-free and Bayesian model-based clustering analyses indicated a close genetic relationship between the Mlabri and the Htin, a group speaking a Tin language.

Conclusion

Our results strongly suggested that the Mlabri share more recent common ancestry with the Htin. We thus provided, to our knowledge, the first genetic evidence that supports the linguistic affinity of Mlabri, and this association between linguistic and genetic classifications could reflect the same past population processes.
Examination of equine glandular stomach lesions for bacteria, including Helicobacter spp by fluorescence in situ hybridisation
Authors: Husted Louise , Jensen Tim K , Olsen Susanne N , Mølbak Lars
Published: March 2010

Background

The equine glandular stomach is commonly affected by erosion and ulceration. The aim of this study was to assess whether bacteria, including Helicobacter, could be involved in the aetiology of gastric glandular lesions seen in horses.

Results

Stomach lesions, as well as normal appearing mucosa were obtained from horses slaughtered for human consumption. All samples were tested for urease activity using the Pyloritek®assay, while mucosal bacterial content was evaluated using FluorescenceIn SituHybridisation. In selected sub samples, bacteria characterisation was pursued further by cloning and sequencing. Mucosal lesions were found in 36/63 stomachs and included hyperplastic rugae, polypoid structures and focal erosions. None of the samples were tested positive for urease activity or for FISH using the Helicobacter genus specific probe. In samples of lesions, as well as normal samples, clones with 99% similarities toLactobacillus salivariusandSarcina ventriculiwere found.Escherichialike bacterium clones and Enterococcus clones were demonstrated in one focal erosion. Based on a phylogenetic tree these clones had 100% similarity toEscherichia fergusonii and Enterococcus faecium. The Enterococcus were found colonising the mucosal surface, whileE. fergusoniiorganisms were also demonstrated intraepithelial.

Conclusion

Gastric Helicobacter spp. could not be verified as being involved in lesions of the glandular stomach of the horse. SinceE. fergusoniihas been described as an emerging pathogen in both humans and animals, the finding of this bacterium in gastric erosion warrants further clarification to whether gastric infection with this type bacterium is important for horses.
Transmission ratio distortion results in asymmetric introgression in Louisiana Iris
Authors: Tang Shunxue , Okashah Rebecca A , Knapp Steven J , Arnold Michael L , Martin Noland H
Published: March 2010

Background

Linkage maps are useful tools for examining both the genetic architecture of quantitative traits and the evolution of reproductive incompatibilities. We describe the generation of two genetic maps using reciprocal interspecific backcross 1 (BC1) mapping populations from crosses betweenIris brevicaulisandIris fulva. These maps were constructed using expressed sequence tag (EST)- derived codominant microsatellite markers. Such a codominant marker system allowed for the ability to link the two reciprocal maps, and compare patterns of transmission ratio distortion observed between the two.

Results

Linkage mapping resulted in markers that coalesced into 21 linkage groups for each of the reciprocal backcross maps, presumably corresponding to the 21 haploid chromosomes ofI. brevicaulisandI. fulva. The composite map was 1190.0-cM long, spanned 81% of theI. brevicaulisandI. fulvagenomes, and had a mean density of 4.5 cM per locus. Transmission ratio distortion (TRD) was observed in 138 (48.5%) loci distributed in 19 of the 21 LGs in BCIB, BCIF, or both BC1mapping populations. Of the distorted markers identified,I.fulvaalleles were detected at consistently higher-than-expected frequencies in both mapping populations.

Conclusions

The observation thatI. fulvaalleles are overrepresented in both mapping populations suggests thatI.fulvaalleles are favored to introgress intoI.brevicaulisgenetic backgrounds, whileI.brevicaulisalleles would tend to be prevented from introgressing intoI.fulva. These data are consistent with the previously observed patterns of introgression in natural hybrid zones, whereI.fulvaalleles have been consistently shown to introgress across species boundaries.
Identification of a deep intronic mutation in the COL6A2 gene by a novel custom oligonucleotide CGH array designed to explore allelic and genetic heterogeneity in collagen VI-related myopathies
Authors: Bovolenta Matteo , Neri Marcella , Martoni Elena , Urciuolo Anna , Sabatelli Patrizia , Fabris Marina , Grumati Paolo , Mercuri Eugenio , Bertini Enrico , Merlini Luciano , Bonaldo Paolo , Ferlini Alessandra , Gualandi Francesca
Published: March 2010

Background

Molecular characterization of collagen-VI related myopathies currently relies on standard sequencing, which yields a detection rate approximating 75-79% in Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy (UCMD) and 60-65% in Bethlem myopathy (BM) patients as PCR-based techniques tend to miss gross genomic rearrangements as well as copy number variations (CNVs) in both the coding sequence and intronic regions.

Methods

We have designed a custom oligonucleotide CGH array in order to investigate the presence of CNVs in the coding and non-coding regions of COL6A1, A2, A3, A5 and A6 genes and a group of genes functionally related to collagen VI. A cohort of 12 patients with UCMD/BM negative at sequencing analysis and 2 subjects carrying a single COL6 mutation whose clinical phenotype was not explicable by inheritance were selected and the occurrence of allelic and genetic heterogeneity explored.

Results

A deletion within intron 1A of the COL6A2 gene, occurring in compound heterozygosity with a small deletion in exon 28, previously detected by routine sequencing, was identified in a BM patient. RNA studies showed monoallelic transcription of the COL6A2 gene, thus elucidating the functional effect of the intronic deletion. No pathogenic mutations were identified in the remaining analyzed patients, either within COL6A genes, or in genes functionally related to collagen VI.

Conclusions

Our custom CGH array may represent a useful complementary diagnostic tool, especially in recessive forms of the disease, when only one mutant allele is detected by standard sequencing. The intronic deletion we identified represents the first example of a pure intronic mutation in COL6A genes.
Factors associated with health-seeking behavior among migrant workers in Beijing, China
Authors: Peng Yingchun , Chang Wenhu , Zhou Haiqing , Hu Hongpu , Liang Wannian
Published: March 2010

Background

Migrant workers are a unique phenomenon in the process of China's economic transformation. The household registration system classifies them as temporary residents in cities, putting them in a vulnerable state with an unfair share of urban infrastructure and social public welfare. The amount of pressure inflicted by migrant workers in Beijing, as one of the major migration destinations, is currently at a threshold. This study was designed to assess the factors associated with health-seeking behavior and to explore feasible solutions to the obstacles migrant workers in China faced with when accessing health-care.

Methods

A sample of 2,478 migrant workers in Beijing was chosen by the multi-stage stratified cluster sampling method. A structured questionnaire survey was conducted via face-to-face interviews between investigators and subjects. The multilevel methodology (MLM) was used to demonstrate the independent effects of the explanatory variables on health seeking behavior in migrant workers.

Results

The medical visitation rate of migrant workers within the past two weeks was 4.8%, which only accounted for 36.4% of those who were ill. Nearly one-third of the migrant workers chose self-medication (33.3%) or no measures (30.3%) while ill within the past two weeks. 19.7% of the sick migrants who should have been hospitalized failed to receive medical treatment within the past year. According to self-reported reasons, the high cost of health service was a significant obstacle to health-care access for 40.5% of the migrant workers who became sick. However, 94.0% of the migrant workers didn't have any insurance coverage in Beijing. The multilevel model analysis indicates that health-seeking behavior among migrants is significantly associated with their insurance coverage. Meanwhile, such factors as household monthly income per capita and working hours per day also affect the medical visitation rate of the migrant workers in Beijing.

Conclusion

This study assesses the influence of socio-demographic characteristics on the migrant workers' decision to seek health care services when they fall ill, and it also indicates that the current health service system discourages migrant workers from seeking appropriate care of good quality. Relevant policies of public medical insurance and assistance program should be vigorously implemented for providing affordable health care services to the migrants. Feasible measures need to be taken to reduce the health risks associated with current hygiene practices and equity should be assured in access to health care services among migrant workers.
Production of recombinant proteins in E. coli by the heat inducible expression system based on the phage lambda pL and/or pR promoters
Authors: Valdez-Cruz Norma A , Caspeta Luis , Pérez Néstor O , Ramírez Octavio T , Trujillo-Roldán Mauricio A
Published: March 2010

The temperature inducible expression system, based on the pL and/or pR phage lambda promoters regulated by the thermolabile cI857 repressor has been widely use to produce recombinant proteins in prokariotic cells. In this expression system, induction of heterologous protein is achieved by increasing the culture temperature, generally above 37°C. Concomitant to the overexpression of heterologous protein, the increase in temperature also causes a variety of complex stress responses. Many studies have reported the use of such temperature inducible expression system, however only few discuss the simultaneous stress effects caused by recombinant protein production and the up-shift in temperature. Understanding the integral effect of such responses should be useful to develop improved strategies for high yield protein production and recovery. Here, we describe the current status of the heat inducible expression system based on the pL and/or pR λ phage promoters, focusing on recent developments on expression vehicles, the stress responses at the molecular and physiological level that occur after heat induction, and bioprocessing factors that affect protein overexpression, including culture operation variables and induction strategies.
Quality of life measurement in women with cervical cancer: implications for Chinese cervical cancer survivors
Authors: Zeng Ying Chun , Ching Shirley SY , Loke Alice Y
Published: March 2010

Background

Women with cervical cancer now have relatively good 5-year survival rates. Better survival rates have driven the paradigm in cancer care from a medical illness model to a wellness model, which is concerned with the quality of women's lives as well as the length of survival. Thus, the assessment of quality of life among cervical cancer survivors is increasingly paramount for healthcare professionals. The purposes of this review were to describe existing validated quality of life instruments used in cervical cancer survivors, and to reveal the implications of quality of life measurement for Chinese cervical cancer survivors.

Methods

A literature search of five electronic databases was conducted using the terms cervical/cervix cancer, quality of life, survivors, survivorship, measurement, and instruments. Articles published in either English or Chinese from January 2000 to June 2009 were searched. Only those adopting an established quality of life instrument for use in cervical cancer survivors were included.

Results

A total of 11 validated multidimensional quality of life instruments were identified from 41 articles. These instruments could be classified into four categories: generic, cancer-specific, cancer site-specific and cancer survivor-specific instruments. With internal consistency varying from 0.68-0.99, the test-retest reliability ranged from 0.60-0.95 based on the test of the Pearson coefficient. One or more types of validity supported the construct validity. Although all these instruments met the minimum requirements of reliability and validity, the original versions of these instruments were mainly in English.

Conclusion

Selection of an instrument should consider the purpose of investigation, take its psychometric properties into account, and consider the instrument's origin and comprehensiveness. As quality of life can be affected by culture, studies assessing the quality of life of cervical cancer survivors in China or other non-English speaking countries should choose or develop instruments relevant to their own cultural context. There is a need to develop a comprehensive quality of life instrument for Chinese cervical cancer survivors across the whole survivorship, including immediately after diagnosis and for short- (less than 5 years) and long-term (more than 5 years) survivorship.
A case report of acute dermatitis that developed during an experiment examining the bromination of 3-hexylthiophene
Authors: Sato Mikiya , Yoshiki Hajime , Horie Masaki , Yano Eiji
Published: March 2010

Occupational cases with allergic reaction to fragrance substances, which refer to various chemicals providing aroma characteristics, are arising with its recent usage diversification from pharmaceutical, perfume industry to aromatic remedies. However, chemicals responsible for fragrance allergy have hardly been identified because its component is complex and its sensitization is not frequent. This report will present a case of acute allergic dermatitis that is likely induced by 3-hexylthiophene, one of aromatic compounds often contained in fragrance substances. The case, who was a 27-year male researcher engaged in organic chemical synthesis for six years, was exposed to 3-hexylthiophene and its product (2-bromo-3-hexylthiophene) through an experiment in May 2004 and itching, swelling and eczema immediately developed from face to back. This case of sensitization to 3-hexylthiophene suggests that it be a possible allergen for fragrance allergy.
Exophytic benign mixed epithelial stromal tumour of the kidney: case report of a rare tumour entity
Authors: Richter Michael , Meyer Werner , Küster Jens , Middel Peter
Published: March 2010

Background

Mixed epithelial and stromal tumour (MEST) represents a recently described benign composite neoplasm of the kidney, which predominantly affects perimenopausal females. Most tumours are benign, although rare malignant cases have been observed.

Case report

A 47-year-old postmenopausal female presented to the urologist with flank pain. A CT scan of the abdomen showed a 30-mm-in-diameter uniform mass adjacent to the pelvis of the left kidney. Surgical exploration showed a tumour arising from the lower anterior hilus of the left kidney. The tumour could be excised by preserving the kidney. By intraoperative frozen section the tumour showed characteristic features of MEST with epithelial-covered cysts embedded in an "ovarian-like" stroma. Additional immunohistochemistry investigations showed expression for hormone receptors by the stromal component of the tumour.

Discussion

MEST typically presents in perimenopausal women as a primarily cystic mass. Commonly, the tumour arises from the renal parenchyma or pelvis. The tumour is composed of an admixture of cystic and sometimes more solid areas. The stromal cells typically demonstrate an ovarian-type stroma showing expression for the estrogen and progesterone receptors.

Conclusion

MEST represents a distinctive benign tumour entity of the kidney, which affects perimenopausal woman. The tumour should be distinguished from other cystic renal neoplasms. By imaging studies it is difficult to distinguish between a benign or malignant nature of the tumour. Thus, intraoperative frozen section is necessary for conservative surgery, since the overall prognosis is favourable and renal function can be preserved in most cases.
Taproots and Monday-Morning Militants
Authors: Chappell David L.
Published: March 2010

Tom Sugrue shifts the diagnosis of racial conflict northward. That's an illuminating move: many of today's most crippling forms of discrimination originated in the North—not, that is to say, in pre-industrial slavery and Jim Crow laws. Most professional critics of racism are implicated in the modern racial policies, along with everybody else. Sugrue's other moves are less adventurous. His thorough though safely conventional narrative glorifies selected strains of activism that have been in fashion in elite universities since the baby boomers took over. Like most of the profession, Sugrue views racism through the lens of its inseparable twin, antiracist resistance. He pays lip-service to the ivory-tower dogma that grassroots determine the course of history. But his sources do extraordinary deeds, often with full-time persistence—more like taproots or roto-tillers than grassroots. Fortunately, Sugrue acknowledges (more than most scholars) the diversity among African American strategies for freedom. Unfortunately, he often echoes the judgment of the sensationalist media and the paranoid FBI: that the most bombastic talkers—those who spoke of armed insurrection—are the most significant activists. Sugrue scrupulously grants that his favored “radicals” and “militants” did not represent the majority of black America. His treatment is fortunately less skewed in their direction than is typical. Still he often gives short shrift to the quieter (and in the l960s more mature) activists, who may have accomplished more than those who bask in journalistic and academic ink. Worse, Sugrue passes up the opportunity to question the academy's comforting notion that radicalism and militancy boil down to stated intentions, rather than tangible accomplishments.
Relating the Civil Rights and Community Organizing Movements
Authors: Seligman Amanda I.
Published: March 2010

Seligman's article asserts that Thomas J. Sugrue's Sweet Land of Liberty brings many strands together in a single narrative of the struggles of northern African Americans to combat discrimination in the twentieth century. By discovering the breadth of racial exclusion in the north and linking activists with diverse agendas and strategies, Sugrue does an important scholarly service. He particularly emphasizes the significance of actors—especially women—at the grassroots, who pushed the NAACP to pursue legal cases it might not have otherwise taken. Seligman's writes that the book, however, largely follows the traditional line of civil rights movement historiography in recognizing which areas were targets of urban activism: housing, education, and employment. If Sugrue had investigated the breadth of causes that African American community organizations were involved with, the book would have been much richer and much longer. Sweet Land of Liberty opens up the question of the relationship between the civil rights movement and the community organizing movement but does not close it.
Research on optimal control for dry dual-clutch engagement during launch
Authors: Wu M-X , Zhang J-W , Lu T-L , Ni C-S
Published: March 2010

A non-linear dynamic model of the passenger car driveline with dual-clutch transmission is proposed by treating the dry dual clutch as a system of multiple rigid bodies for numerical simulation of their engaging behaviours in launch phases. For the synthetic optimal engaging performance and simple optimization procedures, the effects of the friction work, shock intensity, and engine torque are examined and introduced into the objective function. The optimal engagement laws are deduced for the dry dual clutch by finding a compromise between the friction work, shock intensity, and engine torque, based upon the extremum value theorem. Numerical examples are given using the present mathematical modelling for the purpose of comparison of the transient dynamic responses of the dual clutch during engagement in a number of typical working conditions. It is shown that the present control strategy is efficient and promising.
Tooth cleaning and tooth wear: A review
Authors: Ashcroft A T , Joiner A
Published: March 2010

With increases in life expectancy and better retention of the dentition due to a combination of the use of fluoride and better oral hygiene practices, there has been increased attention to tooth wear. This review describes the factors affecting tooth cleaning and wear, discusses methods of measuring wear, and assesses the implications. It is concluded that tooth wear is a complicated process, comprising a number of different mechanisms, which may occur simultaneously and possibly synergistically. For the majority of the population, tooth wear should not reach clinically significant levels; however, excessive consumption of acidic food or drink could be problematic. Tooth brushing before an acid challenge is recommended, rather than doing so within an hour of receiving one. Tooth brushing with toothpaste in normal use is, however, concluded to be both safe and beneficial to oral health.
Experimental studies on the dynamic characteristics of rolling element bearings
Authors: Ali N J , García J M
Published: March 2010

The effect of varying parameters on the stiffness and damping of an angular contact ball bearing was studied under rotating conditions. Axial and radial preloads have the most significant effect on dynamic characteristics of bearings, as there is a dependence of the characteristics on oil viscosity. The differential heating of the bearing components could also be a very sensitive factor. It was concluded that the joint between the bearing and the housing has a significant effect on the total dynamic characteristics of the bearing assembly.
Simulation of hydraulic seals
Authors: Salant R F , Yang B , Thatte A
Published: March 2010

Three mixed lubrication models of a reciprocating hydraulic rod seal are described: a steady-state elastic model, a transient elastic model, and a transient viscoelastic model. These models are used to simulate a U-cup rod seal utilized in an injection moulding application. Results characterizing the leakage and friction force, as well as the detailed behaviour of the sealing zone, are presented.
Guideline of design on coated films with a gradient layer under elastohydrodynamic lubrication conditions
Authors: Fujino T , Iwamoto K , Tanaka K , Abe M
Published: March 2010

In recent years, there have been advances in techniques for improving sliding performance by using coated films possessing superior tribological properties to reduce failure of mechanical elements. Those techniques are often used under severe conditions, such as elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL). In this paper, to devise the optimum design of a coated film with a gradient layer, the stresses generated in such a coated film are analysed by using a three-dimensional numerical analysis method, and the strength of the film is evaluated numerically. As a result, it is shown that when the ratio of the modulus of elasticity of the coated film, Ec, to that of the substrate, Es, is 0.50, it is preferable to select the gradient layer in which the variation of modulus of elasticity decreases gradually approaching from the substrate to the coated film in the depth direction. Furthermore, it is shown that in the case of Ec/ Es=2.00, it is preferable to select the gradient layer varying linearly the modulus of elasticity into the gradient layer.
A new fluid film force model of elliptical bearing: Modelling and case studies
Authors: Wang J-L , Cao D Q , Huang W-H
Published: March 2010

The fluid film force model plays a very important role in the non-linear dynamic analysis of a rotor-bearing system. Based on the assumption of the short journal bearing, the fluid film pressure distribution in an elliptical bearing is obtained in terms of the Reynolds equation and the dynamic Gümbel boundary conditions. According to the structural characteristic of elliptical bearing and the integral of fluid film pressure distribution, the fluid force model is formulated. A numerical experiment on the Jeffcott flexible-rotor model is given to show that the model is effective when length-diameter ratio is smaller than 0.6, and the computing cost for dynamical response of rotor-bearing is reduced. Finally, the dynamical behaviour and bifurcation of a 200 MW turbine set are numerically obtained applying the new fluid film force model.
On the state and severity of frictional sliding contacts between nominally flat metallic surfaces
Authors: Chang L , Zhang H
Published: March 2010

This paper develops and uses an analytically traceable model to study the state and severity of frictional contacts between nominally flat surfaces of elastic-perfectly-plastic materials. The state and severity of the contact is characterized by four area-of-contact variables. They include the real area of contact, the portion of the real area of contact in full plastic deformation, the portion of the real area of contact with high interfacial shear stresses, and the percentage increase of the real area of contact due to the friction-induced junction growth. Problems are studied ranging from very elastic to very plastic contacts under good-to-poor boundary-lubrication conditions. Dimensionless results are presented in a two-dimensional parameter space of the surface plasticity index and a system friction coefficient. Judged by these dimensionless results, the state and severity of the frictional contact is primarily governed by two model parameters: the plasticity index and the coefficient of friction. It is fairly insensitive to other system parameters such as the applied normal load and height distribution of surface asperities. The results may shed some lights on surface run-in, system operations, and possible friction instability of the tribo-system.
Effects of phosphorus on friction behaviour in wet clutch systems: A comparison of various coatings
Authors: Stadler A , Brenner J , Schindel A , Pauschitz A , Franek F , Keszthelyi Z , Hofer M , Wosik J
Published: March 2010

This paper presents the investigation of effects of phosphorus-containing coatings on the friction behaviour. Three types of technologically fabricated coatings are investigated: zinc phosphate, iron phosphate, and a third the composition of which is still confidential as it is being patented. For the description of the composition and the properties of these coatings, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and electron backscattered diffraction are used among other methods. Friction behaviour is characterized by a disc-on-disc tribometer, in which coated steel discs rotate against so-called paper friction discs under lubricated conditions. Tests are carried out with two different types of lubricants and at two temperatures. The disc-on-disc tests show the influence of coatings on the level and stability of the coefficient of friction (the occurrence of stick—slip or vibrations). Results show that phosphorus-containing coatings reduce or – in certain cases – even prevent the occurrence of stick—slip. Therefore, one focus of the discussion is the investigation of layers formed during tribological tests. For detailed chemical information of the surface, selected systems are also characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Differences in the chemical state of otherwise equal zinc phosphate coatings can explain differences in the experimental results.
A state-of-the-art review on the effects of particulate contamination and related topics in machine-element contacts
Authors: Nikas G K
Published: March 2010

Contamination of machine-element contacts by solid particles is a serious problem in all industrial sectors. Particles ranging in size from nanometres to micrometres are responsible for increased wear and for even catastrophic failures of bearings, gears, seals, mechanisms, and machines. The wear such contaminants can cause is abrasion, surface indentation, flaking, and even scuffing, depending on the operating conditions and the mechanical properties of the particulates.

The literature on the effects of debris particles in mechanism and machine reliability is voluminous. There are theoretical studies covering the entrainment, entrapment, and passage of particles through concentrated contacts, experimental and theoretical studies on the wear caused in such incidents, studies on the effects of air and lubricant filtration on machine life, and other related research work. The goal is to determine the consequences of having debris particles in a mechanical system and to develop methods to prevent the presence of particles in order to maximize the life expectancy of the system.

This article is a review of the related research available in the literature. It covers more than 150 years of research, with the largest volume of work concentrated in the last 30 years. The review discusses over 230 of the most important publications and aims to be a definitive point of reference for the work done up to the year 2009.
A real-time interactive biofeedback system for sports training and rehabilitation
Authors: Alahakone A U , Senanayake A
Published: March 2010

Biofeedback systems have become a prominent component in the sports domain as a means of motor training and rehabilitation. This paper presents the development of a biofeedback prototype and system software framework facilitating its functionality in real time. The prototype incorporates an inertial measurement sensor unit, a wireless vibration stimulus module for vibrotactile biofeedback, and interactive system software behaving as the backbone of the system. The functionality of the prototype was tested with a stability test during which biofeedback was provided to improve postural control based on trunk tilt displacements. The test involved subjects standing in the tandem Romberg position during which their medial—lateral trunk tilt was measured, and postural sway biofeedback was conveyed via vibrotactile actuators placed on either side of the trunk. Two conditions were tested, namely eyes open and eyes closed, and postural sway with biofeedback was evaluated, as opposed to with no feedback. A 15.2per cent sway reduction resulted in the eyes-open condition, and a significant reduction of 55.2per cent was reported for the eyes-closed condition. The results demonstrate that instantaneous feedback provided via vibration stimulus can reduce postural sway based on trunk tilt measurements. Hence, the system's pertinence to comparable approaches employed in sports training and rehabilitation is foreseen.
Medical Negligence in Italy: The Criminal Inquiry
Authors: Jourdan Stefano , Goulding Julie , Rossi Marco
Published: March 2010

In the past decade, there has been an exponential increase in legal proceedings against doctors due to allegations of medical negligence.

The via crucis of the doctor under investigation for alleged medical negligence in Italy is little known beyond the Alps. The authors hope this paper will bring to the attention of medical and legal colleagues this complex issue of the process followed by the justice machinery in Italy where the criminal route in pursuit of justice is the norm.
Return to Work Following Whiplash and Back Injury: a Review and Evaluation
Authors: Athanasou James A
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study is to review the reported return-to-work rates following whiplash and back-injury. The return-to-work rates for the 71 relevant studies that were reviewed varied from 29% to 100% with a median of 67%. The results suggest considerable residual return-to-work potential for persons with whiplash and back injury. Return-to-work rates were substantially higher for motor vehicle (96%) compared to work-related (71%) studies and also considerably higher for whiplash (95%) compared to back injuries (65%). It is suggested that these indices may form potential benchmarks for personal injury claims outcomes.

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the published rates of return to work following whiplash and back injury. This criterion of return to work is not without limitations or controversy and Pfingsten, Hildebrandt Leibing, Franz and Saur (1997) noted: “... a high variability exists in data on return-to-work. Results often range from either no return to a very high return rate, with an approximate average of 68% following multimodal treatment procedures...”
Psychiatric Diagnoses; Problems Rather Than Solutions
Authors: Weller Malcolm
Published: March 2010

Psychiatric diagnoses are confusing; there are no unequivocal physical markers for psychiatric illness. What are symptoms and what is illness have come to be determined by a checklist in the two leading diagnostic manuals, DSM IV TR and ICD-10. This aids consistency and reliability in terminology and appeals to the legal mind but there are a number of issues which are worth further consideration.
Clinical profile of women with severe anaemia in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Patra Sharda , Puri Manju , Trivedi S S , Pasrija Shikha
Published: March 2010

Anaemia, the most common medical disorder associated with pregnancy, is a silent killer. Most severely anaemic pregnant women are asymptomatic and present late in the third trimester with medical and obstetric complications.
Bacterial aetiology and antimicrobial resistance of community-acquired pneumonia in the elderly and younger adults
Authors: Hashemi Seyyed Hamid , Soozanchi Golnoosh , Jamal-Omidi Shirin , Yousefi-Mashouf Rasoul , Mamani Mojgan , Seif-Rabiei Mohammad-Ali
Published: March 2010

This study was undertaken in order to compare the frequency of bacterial agents of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and their antimicrobial resistance in the elderly and younger adults admitted to a teaching hospital in Hamedan, Iran. A total of 150 cases of CAP, including 81 elderly and 69 younger adults, were evaluated. The most frequently identified pathogens in younger adults were Moraxella catarralis (11.5%), Streptococcus pneumonia (10.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus (10.1%); while in the elderly the most frequent were S. pneumonia (12.3%), S. aureus (6.1%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6.1%). No significant differences were observed between the frequency and antimicrobial resistance pattern of isolated pathogens in either age group. We concluded that the cause of CAP in the elderly follows the general trend of infection in the younger population. Increased resistance of isolated bacteria to the current antibiotics highlights the need for further investigation of newer antibiotics for the treatment of CAP.
Hepatic pregnancy managed conservatively
Authors: Ramphal S R , Moodley J , Rajaruthnam D
Published: March 2010

We present a case of hepatic pregnancy and discuss expectant management, use of newer imaging techniques and approaches to management, such as leaving the placenta in situ, the use of magnetic resonance imaging and sonography in the follow-up of placental involution. This case report illustrates that conservative management is feasible.
Managing scorpion stings in the tropics: chloroquine as an effective drug
Authors: Yenli Edwin M T , Ziem Juventus B , Hillah B , Wegdam Harry H J
Published: March 2010

We report on a fairly familiar alternative use of injection chloroquine in district hospitals in Ghana. Within a period of three years, pain control among six patients with scorpion sting was achieved successfully on an outpatient department basis with injection chloroquine at the Holy Family Hospital, Techiman, Ghana.
Comparing vaginal and sublingual administration of misoprostol for labour induction in women with intra-uterine fetal death
Authors: Geels Yvette Pernella , de Gouberville Marije Carlijn Gordinou , Visser Lucia , van Asten Hendrikus Arnoldus
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to compare complications and effectiveness of induction after vaginal and sublingual administration of misoprostol for labor induction in women with intra-uterine fetal death (IUFD). In a district hospital in Ghana, 23 women with IUFD who underwent labor induction with sublingual misoprostol were compared with a control group of 21 women who received vaginal misoprostol. In the vaginal group 28.6% had one or more complications compared to 21.7% in the sublingual group. In the sublingual group three inductions did not lead to delivery within 48 hours (13%), compared to four in the other group (19%). The mean induction-to-delivery time in the sublingual group was 13 hours and 17 hours in the vaginal group. In this study, both sublingual and vaginal misoprostol were safe and efficient for labor induction in women with IUFD. However, more research on larger numbers of patients is needed, in order to compare complications.
Leptospirosis in suspected cases of dengue in Jamaica, 2002–2007
Authors: Brown Michelle G , Vickers Ivan E , Salas Rose Alba , Smikle Monica F
Published: March 2010

Due to overlapping clinical features with other febrile illnesses, the diagnosis of leptospirosis is often overlooked, resulting in delay in treatment and increased mortality. In this study the prevalence of leptospirosis was determined in 590 patients with dengue-like illnesses using the Leptospira IgM dipstick and dengue enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Leptospira IgM antibodies were found in 27 (5.0%) patients. Dengue IgM negative (6.9% versus 2.5%, P < 0.05) and dengue IgG positive patients (8.0% versus 3.5%, P < 0.01) were more likely to be leptospira IgM positive. Fever, skin rash, central nervous system and respiratory involvement were the most common presenting features. The presence of arthralgia ( P = 0.016), hepatitis ( P = 0.000), jaundice ( P = 0.003), splenomegaly ( P = 0.041) and haematuria ( P = 0.029) were associated with leptospirosis. In countries with an endemicity of leptospirosis and dengue it is important that patients with dengue-like illnesses, especially those with no serological evidence of current primary dengue infection, be investigated for leptospirosis.
Rhabdomyolysis in falciparum malaria – a series of twelve cases (five children and seven adults)
Authors: Mishra Saroj K , Pati Sudhanshu S , Mahanta Kishore C , Mohanty Sanjib
Published: March 2010

There are very few reports in the literature of rhabdomyolysis in falciparum malaria and they mostly consist of single case studies. A report from Sri Lanka described a single patient with myoglobinuria and skeletal muscle necrosis. Taylor and Prosser reported a single case of rhabdomyolysis with renal failure. We report on 12 patients with evidence of skeletal muscle injury in severe malaria from Rourkela, Orissa State, India.
Tuberculosis of uterine cervix: a report of two cases with variable clinical presentation
Authors: Singh Sunita , Gupta Veena , Modi Shilpi , Rana Praveen , Duhan Amrita , Sen Rajeev
Published: March 2010

Tuberculosis (TB) of the cervix is a rare disease. We describe two cases of tuberculous cervicitis with variable clinical presentation. In one case, a young woman presented with primary infertility and secondary amenorrhoea. The other is a perimenopausal woman with irregular vaginal bleeding and postcoital blood-stained discharge. The diagnosis was confirmed on histopathological examination of the endocervical curettings and a cervical biopsy. The patients were given six months of anti-tuberculous therapy and responded well.
Bilateral blindness following snakebite
Authors: Mustapha S K , Mubi B M , Askira B H
Published: March 2010

Snakebite is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, as in many parts of the tropics. However, blindness is a rare complication. Reported cases have usually followed bites by neurotoxic snakes such as the cobra. Reports of blindness produced by the bite of haematotoxic snakes are extremely rare. We report the case of bilateral blindness following a bite from a carpet viper. The literature on the subject matter is reviewed and the possible mechanisms of snakebite-induced blindness are discussed.
Percutaneous continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) catheter insertion – a preferred option for developing countries
Authors: Varughese Santosh , Sundaram Madhivanan , Basu Gopal , Tamilarasi Veerasamy , John George Tharayil
Published: March 2010

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) as a modality of renal replacement therapy in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 (CKD 5) has the advantage of being a home-based therapy and is a preferred option in patients with inadequate access to haemodialysis and transplantation facilities and in those infected with HIV and other blood-borne viruses. While open surgical CAPD catheter placement has been the conventional mainstay of access placement, percutaneous techniques are being increasingly used with similar success rates. We report our experience over the past two years with blind insertion of the swan neck percutaneous double-cuffed Tenckhoff CAPD catheter using a trocar. There was considerable decrease in hospital stay and surgical costs. There was only one major complication of injury to the jejunal mesenteric artery requiring emergency laparotomy in one patient. In three patients, drain of peritoneal fluid was inadequate, presumably due to omental wrapping around the in-dwelling catheter, and required surgical removal of the omentum.