bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome of Antegrade Radical Prostatectomy with Intended Wide Resection in Prostate Cancer Patients with a Preoperative Serum PSA Level >100 ng/ml
Authors: Urakami Shinji , Yonese Junji , Yamamoto Shinya , Yuasa Takeshi , Kitsukawa Shinichi , Numao Noboru , Kubo Yuichi , Ito Masaya , Sukegawa Gen , Yasuda Yosuke , Ishikawa Yuichi , Fukui Iwao
Published: September 2011

Objective: It was the aim of this study to assess the outcome of prostate cancer patients with preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels ≧100 ng/ml who were treated with antegrade radical prostatectomy with intended wide resection (aRP). Patients and Methods: Eighteen patients who underwent aRP had an initial PSA level ≧100 ng/ml. Overall survival, disease-specific survival and biochemical progression-free survival (bPFS) rates were determined, and predictors of treatment outcome were examined. Results: The median serum PSA level was 159.5 ng/ml. All patients but one had received neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), while only 2 patients received adjuvant ADT. Five patients were classified as stage pT2, 6 as pT3a, 6 as pT3b and 1 as pT4. Four patients had locoregional lymph node metastases. Twelve patients developed PSA failure. Eight of them received salvage ADT. The estimated 10-year bPFS rate was 25.0% and the overall survival and disease-specific survival rates were 92.9 and 100%, respectively, at a median follow-up of 6 years. Multivariate analysis revealed only the clinical stage to be predictive of bPFS based on preoperative variables. On the other hand, surgical margin status, extracapsular extension and organ-confined disease were identified as being significant postoperative predictors. Conclusions: This study showed a comparatively satisfactory outcome for clinically non-metastatic prostate cancer with PSA levels ≧100 ng/ml treated by aRP.
Thrombomodulin Gene Variants Are Associated With Increased Mortality After Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery in Replicated Analyses
Authors: Lobato Robert L. , White William D. , Mathew Joseph P. , Newman Mark F. , Smith Peter K. , McCants Charles B. , Alexander John H. , Podgoreanu Mihai V. ,   for the Duke Perioperative Genetics and Safety Outcomes (PEGASUS) Investigative Team
Published: September 2011

Background—

We tested the hypothesis that genetic variation in thrombotic and inflammatory pathways is independently associated with long-term mortality after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Methods and Results—

Two separate cohorts of patients undergoing CABG surgery at a single institution were examined, and all-cause mortality between 30 days and 5 years after the index CABG was ascertained from the National Death Index. In a discovery cohort of 1018 patients, a panel of 90 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 49 candidate genes was tested with Cox proportional hazard models to identify clinical and genomic multivariate predictors of incident death. After adjustment for multiple comparisons and clinical predictors of mortality, the homozygote minor allele of a common variant in the thrombomodulin (
THBD
) gene (rs1042579) was independently associated with significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.31 to 3.92;
P
=0.003). Six tag SNPs in the
THBD
gene, 1 of which (rs3176123) in complete linkage disequilibrium with rs1042579, were then assessed in an independent validation cohort of 930 patients. After multivariate adjustment for the clinical predictors identified in the discovery cohort and multiple testing, the homozygote minor allele of rs3176123 independently predicted all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.67 to 7.78;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

In 2 independent cardiac surgery cohorts, linked common allelic variants in the
THBD
gene are independently associated with increased long-term mortality risk after CABG and significantly improve the classification ability of traditional postoperative mortality prediction models.
Use of Mathematical Modeling to Compare and Predict Hemodynamic Effects Between Hybrid and Surgical Norwood Palliations for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Hsia Tain-Yen , Cosentino Daria , Corsini Chiara , Pennati Giancarlo , Dubini Gabriele , Migliavacca Francesco ,   for the Modeling of Congenital Hearts Alliance (MOCHA) Investigators
Published: September 2011

Background—

Combining bilateral pulmonary artery banding with arterial duct stenting, the hybrid approach achieves stage 1 palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome with different flow characteristics than those after the surgical Norwood procedures. Accordingly, we used computational modeling to assess some of these differences, including influence on systemic and cerebral oxygen deliveries.

Methods and Results—

A 3-dimensional computational model of hybrid palliation was developed by the finite volume method, along with models of the Norwood operation with a modified Blalock-Tausig or right ventricle–to–pulmonary artery shunt. Hybrid circulation was modeled with a 7-mm ductal stent and bilateral pulmonary artery banding to a 2-mm diameter. A 3.5-mm conduit was used in the Blalock-Tausig shunt model, whereas a 5-mm conduit was used in the right ventricle–to–pulmonary artery shunt model. Coupled to all the models was an identical hydraulic network that described the entire circulatory system based on pre–stage 2 hemodynamics. This clinically validated multiscale approach predicts flow dynamics, as well as global cardiac output, mixed venous oxygen saturation, and systemic and cerebral oxygen delivery. Compared with either of the Norwood models, the hybrid palliation had higher pulmonary-to-systemic flow ratio and lower cardiac output. Total systemic oxygen delivery was markedly reduced in the hybrid palliation (Blalock-Tausig shunt 591, right ventricle–to–pulmonary artery shunt 640, and hybrid 475 mL · min
−1
· m
−2
). Cerebral oxygen delivery was similarly lower in the hybrid palliation.

Conclusions—

These computational results suggest that the hybrid approach may provide inferior systemic and cerebral oxygen deliveries compared with either of the 2 surgical Norwood procedures before stage 2 palliation.
Off-Pump Bilateral Versus Single Skeletonized Internal Thoracic Artery Grafting in High-Risk Patients
Authors: Kinoshita Takeshi , Asai Tohru , Suzuki Tomoaki , Kambara Atsushi , Matsubayashi Keiji
Published: September 2011

Background—

We compared the outcomes in propensity score-matched high-risk patients (European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation [EuroSCORE] ≥5) undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery using bilateral or single skeletonized internal thoracic artery (ITA).

Methods and Results—

Of 794 consecutive patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery (788 by the off-pump technique without emergent conversion to cardiopulmonary bypass), the 536 who had a EuroSCORE ≥5 and underwent off-pump skeletonized single (n=236) or bilateral (n=300) ITA were retrospectively analyzed after excluding the 6 who were transferred to our hospital after receiving percutaneous cardiopulmonary support, the 45 who had only 1 target in the left-side coronary area, and the 207 with EuroSCORE <5. A total of 235 pairs were matched using propensity scores calculated from 7 preoperative factors (C statistic, 0.65). The rate of postoperative complications was similar between the groups. The mean observation period was 3.2 years. The 5-year estimated survival rate free from overall death and cardiac event in patients receiving bilateral versus single ITA grafting was 85.8±5.5% versus 74.8±4.9% (
P
=0.002) and 87.4±4.6% versus 66.1±5.7% (
P
=0.001), respectively. In multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, bilateral ITA grafting was significantly associated with a lower risk of overall death (hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.87;
P
=0.009) and cardiac event (hazard ratio, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.24 to 0.69;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

In high-risk patients, off-pump skeletonized left-sided bilateral in situ ITA grafting is associated with lower risk of overall death and cardiac event than single ITA grafting without increased operative risk.
Neurological Outcomes After Immediate Aortic Repair for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Complicated by Coma
Authors: Tsukube Takuro , Hayashi Taro , Kawahira Toshihiro , Haraguchi Tomonori , Matsukawa Ritsu , Kozawa Shuichi , Ogawa Kyoichi , Okita Yutaka
Published: September 2011

Background—

Management of acute type A aortic dissection (AADA) complicated by coma remains controversial. We analyzed our experience in managing AADA complicated by coma to determine the relationship of duration of preoperative coma to postoperative neurological recovery.

Methods and Results—

Between September 2003 and October 2010, 181 patients with AADA were treated, including 27 presenting with coma (Glasgow Coma Scale <11) on arrival. Twenty-one patients were repaired immediately (immediate group); time from onset of symptoms to operating room was <5 hours. For brain protection, deep hypothermia with antegrade cerebral perfusion was used, and postoperative therapeutic hypothermia with magnesium treatment was performed. Six patients initially were managed medically, and 3 of them were followed by eventual repair because time from onset was >5 hours (delayed group). The preoperative National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 31.4±6.6 in the immediate group and 28.3±9.5 in the delayed group. Hospital mortality was 14% in the immediate group and 67% in the delayed group. Full recovery of consciousness was achieved in 86% of patients in the immediate group and in 17% in the delayed group. In immediate group, the postoperative National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score significantly improved to 6.4±8.4, cumulative survival rate was 71.8% in 3 years, and independence in daily activities was achieved in 52% (11/21).

Conclusions—

Aortic repair, if performed immediately from the onset of symptoms, showed satisfactory recovery of consciousness and neurological function in patients with AADA complicated by coma. In this patient population, immediate aortic repair is warranted.
Reoperation of Left Heart Valve Bioprostheses According to Age at Implantation
Authors: Chan Vincent , Malas Tarek , Lapierre Harry , Boodhwani Munir , Lam B-Khanh , Rubens Fraser D. , Hendry Paul J. , Masters Roy G. , Goldstein William , Mesana Thierry G. , Ruel Marc
Published: September 2011

Background—

Evidence supporting the use of bioprostheses for heart valve replacement in young adults is accumulating. However, reoperation data, which may help guide clinical decision making in young patients, remains poorly defined in the literature.

Methods and Results—

We examined the need for reoperation in 3975 patients who underwent first-time bioprosthetic aortic valve replacement (AVR) (n=3152) or mitral valve replacement (MVR) (n=823). There were 895 patients below the age of 60 years at bioprosthesis implant (AVR, n=636; MVR, n=259). The median interval to reoperation of contemporary, stented aortic bioprostheses was 7.74 years (95% CI 7.28 to 9.97 years) in patients less than 40 years, and 12.93 years (95% CI 11.10 to 15.76 years) in patients between 40 and 60 years of age. Multivariable risk factors associated with reoperation following bioprosthetic AVR include age (hazard ratio [HR] 0.94 per year, 95% CI 0.91 to 0.96,
P
<0.001) and concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.99,
P
=0.04). The median interval to reoperation of contemporary mitral bioprostheses was 8.11 years (95% CI 5.79 to 16.50 years) in patients less than 40 years, and 10.14 years (95% CI 8.64 to 11.14 years) in patients between 40 and 60 years of age. As for AVR, age (HR 0.96 per year, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.98,
P
<0.001) and concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.93,
P
=0.03) were associated with decreased reoperation risk following bioprosthetic MVR.

Conclusions—

These data constitute clinically relevant age-specific prognostic information regarding reoperation in young patients, who may wish to select a bioprosthesis at initial left heart valve replacement.
An Open Sarcolemmal Adenosine Triphosphate-Sensitive Potassium Channel Is Necessary for Detrimental Myocyte Swelling Secondary to Stress
Authors: Sellitto Angela D. , Al-Dadah Ashraf S. , Schuessler Richard B. , Nichols Colin G. , Lawton Jennifer S.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Stress (exposure to hyperkalemic cardioplegia, metabolic inhibition, or osmotic) results in significant myocyte swelling and reduced contractility. In contrast to wild-type mice, these detrimental consequences are not observed in mice lacking the Kir6.2 subunit of the sarcolemmal ATP-sensitive potassium (sK
ATP
) channel after exposure to hyperkalemic cardioplegia. The hypothesis for this study was that an open sK
ATP
channel (Kir6.2 and SUR2A subunits) is necessary for detrimental myocyte swelling to occur in response to stress.

Methods and Results—

To investigate the role of the sK
ATP
channel in stress-induced myocyte swelling, high-dose pharmacological sK
ATP
channel blockade and genetic deletion (knockout of Kir6.2 subunit) were used. Myocytes were exposed sequentially to Tyrode control (20 minutes), test (stress) solution (20 minutes), and Tyrode control (20 minutes). To evaluate pharmacological channel blockade, myocytes were exposed to hyperkalemic cardioplegia (stress) with and without a K
ATP
channel blocker. To evaluate the effects of genetic deletion, wild-type and sK
ATP
knockout [Kir6.2(−/−)] myocytes were exposed to metabolic inhibition (stress). Myocyte volume was recorded using image-grabbing software. Detrimental myocyte swelling was prevented by high-dose sK
ATP
channel blockade (glibenclamide or HMR 1098) but not mitochondrial K
ATP
channel blockade (5-hydroxydecanoate) during exposure to hyperkalemic cardioplegia. Genetic deletion of the sK
ATP
channel prevented significant myocyte swelling in response to metabolic inhibition.

Conclusions—

K
ATP
channel openers prevent detrimental myocyte swelling and reduce contractility in response to stress through an unknown mechanism. Paradoxically, the present data support a role for sK
ATP
channel activation in myocyte volume derangement in response to stress.
Rottlerin Increases Cardiac Contractile Performance and Coronary Perfusion Through BK
Ca++
Channel Activation After Cold Cardioplegic Arrest in Isolated Hearts
Authors: Clements Richard T. , Cordeiro Brenda , Feng Jun , Bianchi Cesario , Sellke Frank W.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Cardioplegia and cardiopulmonary bypass (CP/CPB) subjects myocardium to complex injurious stimuli that can result in cardiomyocyte and vascular contractile abnormalities. Rottlerin, originally identified as a delta-protein kinase C inhibitor, has a number of known additional effects that may be beneficial in the setting of CP/CPB. We tested the hypothesis that rottlerin mitigates deleterious effects associated with CP/CPB.

Methods and Results—

Langendorff-perfused isolated rat hearts were subjected to 2 hours intermittent cold (10°C) CP (St Thomas II) followed by 30 minutes normothermic reperfusion. CP was delivered every 30 minutes for 1 minute. Hearts were treated with rottlerin 1 μmol/L (CP+R) (n=7) or without rottlerin (CP) (n=9), and the BK
Ca++
channel inhibitor paxilline 100 nmol/L was supplied in the CP. Hearts constantly perfused with KHB served as controls (n=6). Baseline parameters of cardiac function were similar between groups. CP resulted in reduced cardiac function (left ventricular diastolic pressure, 39±3.8%; ±dP/dt, 32±4.4%, −41±5.1% decrease compared to baseline). Treatment with rottlerin 1 μmol/L significantly improved CP-induced cardiac function (left ventricular diastolic pressure, 20±5.9%; ±dP/dt, 5.2±4.5%, −11.6±4.7% decrease versus baseline;
P
<0.05 CP+R versus CP). Rottlerin also caused a significant increase in coronary flow postreperfusion (CP, 34±4.2% decrease from baseline; CP+R, 26±9.6% increase over baseline;
P
=0.01). Independent of vascular effects, CP significantly decreased isolated myocyte contraction, which was restored by rottlerin treatment. The BK
Ca++
channel inhibitor greatly reduced the majority of beneficial effects associated with rottlerin.

Conclusions—

Rottlerin significantly improves cardiac performance after CP arrest through improved cardiomyocyte contraction and coronary perfusion.
Use of Fresh Decellularized Allografts for Pulmonary Valve Replacement May Reduce the Reoperation Rate in Children and Young Adults
Authors: Cebotari Serghei , Tudorache Igor , Ciubotaru Anatol , Boethig Dietmar , Sarikouch Samir , Goerler Adelheid , Lichtenberg Artur , Cheptanaru Eduard , Barnaciuc Sergiu , Cazacu Anatol , Maliga Oxana , Repin Oleg , Maniuc Liviu , Breymann Thomas , Haverich Axel
Published: September 2011

Background—

Degeneration of xenografts or homografts is a major cause for reoperation in young patients after pulmonary valve replacement. We present the early results of fresh decellularized pulmonary homografts (DPH) implantation compared with glutaraldehyde-fixed bovine jugular vein (BJV) and cryopreserved homografts (CH).

Methods and Results—

Thirty-eight patients with DPH in pulmonary position were consecutively evaluated during the follow-up (up to 5 years) including medical examination, echocardiography, and MRI. These patients were matched according to age and pathology and compared with BJV (n=38) and CH (n=38) recipients. In contrast to BJV and CH groups, echocardiography revealed no increase of transvalvular gradient, cusp thickening, or aneurysmatic dilatation in DPH patients. Over time, DPH valve annulus diameters converge toward normal
z
-values. Five-year freedom from explantation was 100% for DPH and 86±8% and 88±7% for BJV and CH conduits, respectively. Additionally, MRI investigations in 17 DPH patients with follow-up time >2 years were compared with MRI data of 20 BJV recipients. Both patient groups (DPH and BJV) were at comparable ages (mean, 12.7±6.1 versus 13.0±3.0 years) and have comparable follow-up time (3.7±1.0 versus 2.7±0.9 years). In DPH patients, the mean transvalvular gradient was significantly (
P
=0.001) lower (11 mm Hg) compared with the BJV group (23.2 mm Hg). Regurgitation fraction was 14±3% and 4±5% in DPH and BJV groups, respectively. In 3 DPH recipients, moderate regurgitation was documented after surgery and remained unchanged in follow-up.

Conclusions—

In contrast to conventional homografts and xenografts, decellularized fresh allograft valves showed improved freedom from explantation, provided low gradients in follow-up, and exhibited adaptive growth.
Targeted Regional Injection of Biocomposite Microspheres Alters Post–Myocardial Infarction Remodeling and Matrix Proteolytic Pathways
Authors: Dixon Jennifer A. , Gorman Robert C. , Stroud Robert E. , Mukherjee Rupak , Meyer Evan C. , Baker Nathaniel L. , Morita Masato , Hamamoto Hirotsugu , Ryan Liam P. , Gorman Joseph H. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: September 2011

Background—

Although localized delivery of biocomposite materials, such as calcium hydroxyapatite (CHAM), have been demonstrated to potentially attenuate adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling after myocardial infarction (MI), the underlying biological mechanisms for this effect remain unclear. This study tested the hypothesis that targeted CHAM injections would alter proteolytic pathways (matrix metalloproteinases [MMPs] and tissue inhibitors of MMPs [TIMPs]) and would be associated with parameters of post-MI LV remodeling.

Methods and Results—

MI was induced in adult sheep followed by 20 targeted injections of a total volume of 1.3 mL (n=6) or 2.6 mL of CHAM (n=5) or saline (n=13) and LV end-diastolic volume (EDV) and MMP/TIMP profiles in the MI region were measured at 8 weeks after MI. LV EDV decreased with 2.6 mL CHAM versus MI only (105.4±7.5 versus 80.6±4.2 respectively,
P
<0.05) but not with 1.3 mL CHAM (94.5±5.0,
P
=0.32). However, MI thickness increased by 2-fold in both CHAM groups compared with MI only (
P
<0.05). MMP-13 increased 40-fold in the MI only group (
P
<0.05) but fell by >6-fold in both CHAM groups (
P
<0.05). MMP-7 increased approximately 1.5-fold in the MI only group (
P
<0.05) but decreased to referent control values in both CHAM groups in the MI region (
P
<0.05). Collagen content was reduced by approximately 30% in the CHAM groups compared with MI only (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Differential effects on LV remodeling and MMP/TIMP profiles occurred with CHAM. Thus, targeted injection of a biocomposite material can favorably affect the post-MI remodeling process and therefore holds promise as a treatment strategy in and of itself, or as a matrix with potentially synergistic effects with localized pharmacological or cellular therapies.
Do they all perform alike? An examination of perceived performance, citizen satisfaction and trust with US federal agencies
Authors: Morgeson Forrest V. , Petrescu Claudia
Published: September 2011

What drives citizen satisfaction and trust with US federal government agencies? Are these determinants constant across agencies, or do they differ? In this article, we examine elements of citizen perceived performance as determinants of satisfaction and trust in federal agencies using a multi-year, cross-sectional, multi-agency sample of respondents. Focusing on six high-incidence federal agencies experienced by a large cross-section of American citizens, we observe differences in the determinants of satisfaction and trust, which include perceptions of the quality of the services experienced and the information provided, demographic factors, citizen expectations, and e-government adoption. We discuss these differences, with a particular focus on the implications of these findings for the practice of performance benchmarking. Given that one central objective of a variety of recent federal initiatives has been to better measure bureaucratic performance with the goal of improving the quality of services delivered to citizens through benchmarking, these findings highlight the complexity of government efforts to realize this goal. In conclusion, suggestions for improving cross-agency benchmarking are provided.

Points for practitioners

The key finding in this article for public administration and management practitioners relates to the difficulties inherent in identifying benchmarking partners, and thus in effectively benchmarking performance across agencies with the goal of identifying best practices useful in improving performance. These difficulties arise from the differential nature of what determines citizen satisfaction across agencies with different missions, purposes and goals. An alternative strategy for identifying benchmarking partners based on similarities in satisfaction determinants — what we call ‘benchmark partner selection by determinants’ — is discussed.
Administering the Common Agricultural Policy in Bulgaria and Romania: obstacles to accountability and administrative capacity
Authors: Wegener Stefan , Labar Kelly , Petrick Martin , Marquardt Doris , Theesfeld Insa , Buchenrieder Gertrud
Published: September 2011

The introduction of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union was an important step for Bulgaria and Romania. However, their administrative capacity for managing CAP instruments is still evolving, and they face challenges in delivering services that are crucial for implementing the CAP measures. This article, based on semi-structured interviews among key actors, explores administrative obstacles. The analysis is structured according to the two complementary concepts of accountability and administrative capacity. The findings show that the main accountability problems are related to a complex administrative structure and to the large number of smallholders, which necessitates greater administrative efforts than in established member states. Moreover, due to a lack of representative farmers’ associations, farmers, and particularly small farmers, have no clear means to voice their concerns. The main problems concerning administrative capacity are related to deficient data collection and processing, over-centralized decision-making, and limited coordination among agencies.

Points for practitioners

To improve the delivery of services in new member states such as Bulgaria and Romania, the CAP should pay greater attention to the specific conditions of transition countries, such as their high share of smallholders. It should be determined whether some responsibilities could be devolved to lower administration levels, e.g. by decentralizing decision-making authorities. Moreover, integrated agricultural offices should be established to house front office agencies in the same buildings, a more comprehensive and tailored system of human resource management should be developed, and the outreach of farmers’ associations should be further advanced and facilitated.
‘Seize the time’: an interview with Stephen Jones
Authors: Gordon Avery F.
Published: September 2011

There is a long and substantial history of prisoners’ rights movements in the US, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, which was spearheaded by Black prisoners, notably figures such as George Jackson, subsequently murdered by prison guards. They were forging a new politics and understanding of the role of incarceration in a capitalist state, a politics echoed in prisons around the world. On the fortieth anniversary of the Attica uprising, in which prisoners seized control of the prison and issued a series of political demands, and which was subsequently crushed with overwhelming force, leaving thirty-nine dead, this article reflects on that history. The lineage of radical Black politics, forged in the increasingly harsh and increasingly generalised conditions of the prison industrial complex, continues not only through the writings of prisoners like Mumia Abu Jamal, but also through the work and teaching of formerly incarcerated Black activists like Stephen Jones, whose insights, analysis and history are presented through his interview here.
Hyper-femininity as decency: Beauty, womanhood and respect in emigration
Authors: Cvajner Martina
Published: September 2011

This article explores the meanings of hyper-feminine performances enacted by a group of former USSR women migrating to Alpinetown (in northern Italy) and employed as live-in careworkers. Utilizing data from a three-year, multi-sited ethnography, I describe the ways in which they draw social boundaries and advance generalized claims for respect. I also document how such hyper-femininity is rooted in a performative understanding of womanhood as a normative project. Using evidence collected both in Alpinetown and in the sending areas, I also argue that hyper-femininity in emigration plays a compensatory role, allowing these women to detach themselves from conditions they regard as degrading. A main implication of the findings is that the notion of hyper-femininity may be usefully generalized beyond the Western middle-class contexts in which it was originally applied, to address the various ways in which women of different backgrounds make use of gender symbolism to establish claims to social worth and respect.
Better images, fewer samples: Optimizing array configuration for compressed sensing in radio interferometry
Authors: Fannjiang Clara
Published: September 2011

As with studies of geophysical features, some of the most important tools in astronomical studies lie in imaging techniques. However, the size of a telescope lens sets a limit on image resolution, and it would be impractical to extend lens sizes indefinitely to resolve sources of longer-wavelength emission, such as radio galaxies. The solution, radio interferometry, employs arrays of many antennae, and is distinguished by its application to incoherent radiation sources. By sampling an incoherent radio signal with every possible pair of antennae, where the greatest distance between antennae is the interferometer's aperture, we can collect phase information that is inaccessible with a lens. The technique has provided us the highest-resolution images we have in astronomy. Reliable image reconstruction, however, can depend on a hefty amount of interferometric data, prompting such ambitious up-and-coming projects such as the 64-antennae Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array (ALMA) and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), which will use several thousand antennae. Meanwhile, deconvolution algorithms such as CLEAN are used to remedy the effects of incomplete sampling.
The challenges of monitoring CO2 storage
Authors: Arts Rob , Vandeweijer Vincent
Published: September 2011

At present there is an increasing consensus that the global climate is changing as a result of increased atmospheric concentration of greenhouse gases such as [Formula: see text]. The emissions of [Formula: see text] are directly linked to the abundant application of fossil energy sources.
Foinaven: 4D processing comes up trumps
Authors: Campbell Steve , Lacombe Celine , Brooymans Rik , Hoeber Henning , White Simon
Published: September 2011

A good 4D image shows the effect on the seismic of production-related changes from within and sur-rounding a reservoir. It is well understood that the quality of 4D images is driven by two main ingredients: the quality of the acquisition and the quality of the processing. While 4D acquisition has been taking the limelight recently, the evolution of 4D processing algorithms has been steadily, and perhaps quietly, enhancing the quality of 4D images, including data acquired before the advent of carefully designed, dedicated 4D surveys. Using data from the Foinaven Field, one of three BP-operated fields in the West of Shetlands area, this paper shows how such improvements in processing technology over the last decade have enhanced the quality of the 3D imaging, the 4D seismic difference image, and improved the 4D repeatability.
Monitoring the quality of total hip replacement in a tertiary care department using a cumulative summation statistical method (CUSUM)
Authors: Biau D. J. , Meziane M. , Bhumbra R. S. , Dumaine V. , Babinet A. , Anract P.
Published: September 2011

The purpose of this study was to define immediate post-operative ‘quality’ in total hip replacements and to study prospectively the occurrence of failure based on these definitions of quality. The evaluation and assessment of failure were based on ten radiological and clinical criteria. The cumulative summation (CUSUM) test was used to study 200 procedures over a one-year period. Technical criteria defined failure in 17 cases (8.5%), those related to the femoral component in nine (4.5%), the acetabular component in 32 (16%) and those relating to discharge from hospital in five (2.5%). Overall, the procedure was considered to have failed in 57 of the 200 total hip replacements (28.5%). The use of a new design of acetabular component was associated with more failures. For the CUSUM test, the level of adequate performance was set at a rate of failure of 20% and the level of inadequate performance set at a failure rate of 40%; no alarm was raised by the test, indicating that there was no evidence of inadequate performance.

The use of a continuous monitoring statistical method is useful to ensure that the quality of total hip replacement is maintained, especially as newer implants are introduced.
The effect of post-operative mechanical axis alignment on the survival of primary total knee replacements after a follow-up of 15 years
Authors: Bonner T. J. , Eardley W. G. P. , Patterson P. , Gregg P. J.
Published: September 2011

Correct positioning and alignment of components during primary total knee replacement (TKR) is widely accepted to be an important predictor of patient satisfaction and implant durability. This retrospective study reports the effect of the post-operative mechanical axis of the lower limb in the coronal plane on implant survival following primary TKR.

A total of 501 TKRs in 396 patients were divided into an aligned group with a neutral mechanical axis (± 3°) and a malaligned group where the mechanical axis deviated from neutral by > 3°. At 15 years’ follow-up, 33 of 458 (7.2%) TKRs were revised for aseptic loosening. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a weak tendency towards improved survival with restoration of a neutral mechanical axis, but this did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.47).

We found that the relationship between survival of a primary TKR and mechanical axis alignment is weaker than that described in a number of previous reports.
Revision total hip arthroplasty using a Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement device with bone allograft
Authors: Akiyama H. , Yamamoto K. , Tsukanaka M. , Kawanabe K. , Otsuka H. , So K. , Goto K. , Nakamura T.
Published: September 2011

We retrospectively reviewed 40 hips in 36 patients who had undergone acetabular reconstruction using a titanium Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement device with bone allografts between May 2001 and April 2006. Impacted bone allografts were used for the management of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Type II defects in 17 hips, and bulk bone allografts together with impacted allografts were used for the management of Type III defects in 23 hips. A total of five hips showed radiological failure at a mean follow-up of 6.7 years (4.5 to 9.3), two of which were infected. The mean pre-operative Merle d’Aubigné score was 10 (5 to 15) vs 13.6 (9 to 18) at the latest follow-up. The Kaplan-Meier survival rate at ten years, calculated using radiological failure or revision of the acetabular component for any reason as the endpoint, was 87% (95% confidence interval 76.3 to 97.7). A separate experimental analysis of the mechanical properties of the device and the load-displacement properties of bone grafts showed that a structurally hard allograft resected from femoral heads of patients with osteoarthritis should be preferentially used in any type of defect. If impacted bone allografts were used, a bone graft thickness of < 25 mm was acceptable in Type II defects.

This clinical study indicates that revision total hip replacement using the Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement device with bone allografts yielded satisfactory mid-term results.
Joint line position correlates with function after primary total knee replacement
Authors: Babazadeh S. , Dowsey M. M. , Swan J. D. , Stoney J. D. , Choong P. F. M.
Published: September 2011

The role of computer-assisted surgery in maintaining the level of the joint in primary knee joint replacement (TKR) has not been well defined. We undertook a blinded randomised controlled trial comparing joint-line maintenance, functional outcomes, and quality-of-life outcomes between patients undergoing computer-assisted and conventional TKR. A total of 115 patients were randomised (computer-assisted, n = 55; conventional, n = 60).

Two years post-operatively no significant correlation was found between computer-assisted and conventional surgery in terms of maintaining the joint line. Those TKRs where the joint line was depressed post-operatively improved the least in terms of functional scores. No difference was detected in terms of quality-of-life outcomes. Change in joint line was found to be related to change in alignment. Change in alignment significantly affects change in joint line and functional scores.
The ‘other’ bone sarcomas
Authors: Pakos E. E. , Grimer R. J. , Peake D. , Spooner D. , Carter S. R. , Tillman R. M. , Abudu S. , Jeys L.
Published: September 2011

We aimed to identify the incidence, outcome and prognostic factors associated with spindle cell sarcomas of bone (SCSB). We studied 196 patients with a primary non-metastatic tumour treated with the intent to cure. The results were compared with those of osteosarcoma patients treated at our hospital during the same period. The overall incidence of SCSB was 7.8% of all patients with a primary bone sarcoma. The five- and ten-year survival rates were 67.0% and 60.0%, respectively, which were better than those of patients with osteosarcoma treated over the same period. All histological subtypes had similar outcomes. On univariate analysis, factors that were significantly associated with decreased survival were age > 40 years, size > 8 cm, the presence of a pathological fracture, amputation, involved margins and a poor response to pre-operative chemotherapy. Multivariate analyses showed that age > 65 years, amputation and involved margins were all statistically significant prognostic factors. Involved margins and poor response to pre-operative chemotherapy were associated with an increased risk of local recurrence. SCSB has a better prognosis than osteosarcoma when matched for age. Most prognostic factors for osteosarcoma also seem to apply to SCSB. Patients with SCSB should be treated in the same way as patients of the same age with osteosarcoma.
Combined Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide and Lipopolysaccharide on Osteoclast Differentiation in Rats
Authors: Irie Koichiro , Ekuni Daisuke , Tomofuji Takaaki , Endo Yasumasa , Kasuyama Kenta , Yaegaki Ken , Morita Manabu
Published: September 2011

Background: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulates osteoclast differentiation through toll‐like receptors (TLRs) 2 and 4, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) induces osteoclast differentiation. If H2S activates TLRs, H2S may enhance the effects of LPS on osteoclast differentiation. The purpose of the present study is to examine the combined effects of sodium hydrogen sulfide (NaHS, an H2S donor drug) and LPS on osteoclast differentiation and TLR expression in rat periodontal tissue.

Methods: Twenty‐eight male Wistar rats (8 weeks old) were divided into four groups (n = 7 per group): a control (no treatment) group and three experimental groups (NaHS group, LPS group, and a combination [NaHS + LPS] group). At 1 day after topical application of NaHS and/or Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS into the gingival sulcus of first molars, the number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphate (TRAP)‐positive osteoclasts in the periodontal tissue was counted. Expression of TLR2 and TLR4 mRNAs and proteins in the gingival was also assessed.

Results: The number of TRAP‐positive osteoclasts was significantly higher in the combination group than in any other group (P <0.01). The combination group had 11.0‐fold higher TLR4 mRNA levels than the control group. TLR4 protein levels were also higher in the combination group than in the NaHS or LPS group. However, the TLR2 mRNA and protein levels were not significantly different in the combination group and the LPS group.

Conclusion: In rat periodontal tissue, NaHS and LPS had an additive effect on osteoclast differentiation through activation of the TLR4 pathway but not the TLR2 pathway.
Development of a new correlation for estimating pool boiling heat transfer coefficient of MEG/DEG/water ternary mixture
Authors: Sarafraz M.M. , Alavi-Fazel S.A. , Hasanzadeh Y. , Arabshamsabadi A. , Bahram S.
Published: September 2011

Pool boiling heat transfer coefficient of monoethylene glycol (MEG),
diethylene glycol (DEG) and water ternary mixtures has been experimentally
measured up to heat flux 114 kW/m2 at various volumetric concentrations of
MEG and DEG. As expected, heat transfer coefficient was strongly taken as a
direct function of heat flux. Existing well-known correlations are shown to
be unable to predict the acceptable values for the tested ternary mixtures,
particularly at different concentrations of MEG and DEG. Furthermore, a new
modified correlation is developed on the basis of the Stephan - Preu?er
correlation that predicts the values of heat transfer coefficients with
absolute average error of about 7% that is reasonable and acceptable values
in compare to other existing correlations.
First-principle calculations for electronic structure and bonding properties in layered Na2Ti3O7
Authors: An Yongliang , Li Zhonghua , Xiang Hongping , Huang Yongjiang , Shen Jun
Published: September 2011

First-principles calculations of Na2Ti3O7 have been carried out with density-functional theory (DFT) and ultrasoft pseudopotentials. The electronic structure and bonding properties in layered Na2Ti3O7 have been studied through calculating band structure, density of states, electron density, electron density difference and Mulliken bond populations. The calculated results reveal that Na2Ti3O7 is a semiconductor with an indirect gap and exhibits both ionic and covalent characters. The stability of the (Ti3O7)2− layers is attributed to the covalent bonding of strong interactions between O 2p and Ti 3d orbitals. Furthermore, the O atoms located in the innerlayers interact more strongly with the neighboring Ti atoms than those in the interlayer regions. The ion-exchange property is due to the ionic bonding between the Na+ and (Ti3O7)2− layers, which can stabilize the interlayers of layered Na2Ti3O7 structure.
Incarcerated inguinal hernia? No, acute pancreatitis
Authors: Ramia-Angel Jose , Sancho Eloy , Lozoya Rafael , Gasz Andrej , Santos Jose
Published: September 2011

A 62-year-old man presented to the Emergency Department with a 2-day history of right testicular pain. The initial diagnosis was orchiepididymitis (later found to be mistaken), and intravenous antibiotic treatment was started. Twenty-four hours later, the patient had mild pain in the right inguinal area and right infra-abdominal area. We performed an inguinal ultrasound that showed an incarcerated mass of mixed echogenicity in the right inguinal area. Surgery was performed because we thought the patient had an inguinal incarcerated hernia. Two days after the surgical procedure, the patient began to have fever and erythema and pain in the back. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) showed an acute pancreatitis with a peripancreatic collection from the pancreas to right inguinal area. We have reviewed similar cases in the literature and note that, infrequently, an inguinal mass can be the first sign of mostly asymptomatic acute pancreatitis.
Pathogenesis ofY. enterocoliticaandY. pseudotuberculosisin Human Yersiniosis
Authors: Galindo Cristi L. , Rosenzweig Jason A. , Kirtley Michelle L. , Chopra Ashok K.
Published: September 2011

Yersiniosis is a food-borne illness that has become more prevalent in recent years due to human transmission via the fecal-oral route and prevalence in farm animals. Yersiniosis is primarily caused byYersinia enterocoliticaand less frequently byYersinia pseudotuberculosis. Infection is usually characterized by a self-limiting acute infection beginning in the intestine and spreading to the mesenteric lymph nodes. However, more serious infections and chronic conditions can also occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.Y. enterocoliticaandY. pseudotuberculosisare both heterogeneous organisms that vary considerably in their degrees of pathogenicity, although some generalizations can be ascribed to pathogenic variants. Adhesion molecules and a type III secretion system are critical for the establishment and progression of infection. Additionally, host innate and adaptive immune responses are both required for yersiniae clearance. Despite the ubiquity of entericYersiniaspecies and their association as important causes of food poisoning world-wide, few national enteric pathogen surveillance programs include the yersiniae as notifiable pathogens. Moreover, no standard exists whereby identification and reporting systems can be effectively compared and global trends developed. This review discusses yersinial virulence factors, mechanisms of infection, and host responses in addition to the current state of surveillance, detection, and prevention of yersiniosis.
Inquiry–Based Instruction for Students with Special Needs in School Based Agricultural Education
Authors: Easterly III R. G. , Myers Brian E.
Published: September 2011

Educating students with special needs in school based agricultural education (SBAE) is a problem thatshould be addressed. While many students in SBAE classes have special needs, contradicting research exists establishing the best method of instruction for students with special needs. Inquiry–based instruction shows some promise, but little is known about its effectiveness in SBAE settings for students with special needs. The purpose of this study was to determine if inquiry–based instruction impacts content knowledge achievement for students with special needs. A one–group pretest–posttest, design was used to determine if students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) differed in content knowledge achievement from those students without IEPs. No difference in content knowledge achievement was found between students with IEPs and those without over seven pre and post tests using ANCOVA measures. Based on these findings inquiry–based instruction can be an effective method of instruction for students with special needs and should be used when appropriate.
A Longitudinal Study to Determine if Wiki Work Builds Community among Agricultural Adult Education Students
Authors: Kelsey Kathleen D. , Lin Hong , Franke-Dvorak Tanya C.
Published: September 2011

Wiki has been lauded as a tool that enhances collaborative writing in educational settings and moves learners toward a state of communal constructivism (Holmes, Tangney, FitzGibbon, Savage, & Mehan., 2001). Many pedagogical claims exist regarding the benefits of using wiki. However, these claims have rarely been challenged. This study used a three–year longitudinal cohort survey design (Creswell, 2008) to measure learners’ perception regarding the pedagogical claims of wiki to create an online textbook in a graduate agricultural adult education course. The overall survey mean was 2.37 on a four–point scale (2.0 = not sure, 3.0 = agree). Learners were positively but marginally impacted by the wiki writing experiences in terms of knowledge construction and enhanced critical thinking skills. Study results marginally support Holmes’ et al. theory that interactive communication technologies (ICT) create constructivist learning opportunities. Collaborative writing does not naturally emerge from wiki work. Rather, it must be coaxed and nurtured through reward and a self–directed learning approach.
Assessing the Animal Science Technical Skills Needed by Secondary Agricultural Education Graduates for Employment in the Animal Industries: A Modified Delphi Study
Authors: Slusher Wendy L. , Robinson J. Shane , Edwards M. Craig
Published: September 2011

Career and technical education courses, such as agricultural education, exist, in part, to assist students in acquiring the competencies needed to achieve employability. However, whether the current secondary agricultural education curriculum meets the needs of industry leaders who employ high school graduates of agricultural education programs is unclear. Therefore, this Delphi study sought to identify the technical competencies deemed necessary for entry–level employment of high school graduates in the animal industries on their successful completion of coursework in the animal systems career pathway. Forty–two experts, representing the animal industries in Oklahoma, participated in the study. In all, 133 statements were yielded, revealing 48 different competencies, of which 27 (56%) reached consensus of agreement per Round 2. Specifically, panelists “strongly agreed” that graduates should be able to “use basic math,” “practice farm safety,” and “understand animal needs.” Ultimately, all 48 competencies met the “real limits” of “agreement” (M = 2.50 – 3.49). So, these skills should be included in the curriculum designed for the animal systems pathway, and cross–walked with the current Oklahoma secondary animal systems career pathway to ensure that students enrolled in animal science are provided opportunities to learn the skills employers seek in entry–level workers.