bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-frequency electrical stimulation induces long-term depression in patients with chronic tension-type headache
Authors: Lindelof Kim , Jung Kerstin , Ellrich Jens , Jensen Rigmor , Bendtsen Lars
Published: March 2010

Repetitive low-frequency electrical stimulation (LFS) induces pain inhibition in healthy volunteers and in animals, but it is unknown whether it has an analgesic effect in patients with headache. The aim of this study was to investigate if LFS could induce prolonged pain inhibition, called long-term depression (LTD), in patients with chronic tension-type headache (CTTH). Twenty CTTH patients and 20 healthy volunteers were exposed to 20 min LFS (1 Hz) to the forehead. LTD was measured as a decrease in pain response to electrical stimulation in a 1-h post-LFS period following LFS. The LFS induced a significant and stable inhibition of pain (LTD) both in patients with CTTH (post-LFS average decrease in pain rating: 19.6 ± 3.9%, all P < 0.005, Holm–Sidak) and in healthy controls (30.1 ± 5.0%, all P < 0.001, Holm–Sidak). During the LFS period, the pain ratings decreased consistently in both groups. In conclusion, a significant and stable pain inhibition (LTD) can be induced in CTTH patients by LFS.
Pharmacoepidemiology of triptans in a headache centre
Authors: Ferrari Anna , Spaccapelo Luca , Sternieri Emilio
Published: March 2010

Aims: The aims of this survey were: (i) to examine the pharmacoepidemiology of triptans in a headache centre; (ii) to compare the characteristics of patients who continued to take triptans with those of patients who had discontinued them.

Methods: We enrolled all migraine patients according to ICHD-II criteria, ensuring they were over 18 years of age, consecutively examined during a follow-up visit at the Headache Centre of the University Hospital of Modena from October 2008 to March 2009. Only patients who had used or were using a triptan were included. A specific questionnaire about the use and tolerability of triptans was created for the study and administered to every patient.

Results: On the whole, 343 patients (migraine without aura: 72%; chronic migraine: 26%; migraine with aura: 2%; mean age 40.4 ± 10 years) had used or were using triptans. Most patients (72%) continued to use triptans, above all for their efficacy. The minority (28%) discontinuing them were younger and suffered from less severe migraine; 59% of them had discontinued triptans because of adverse effects. Indeed, 92% of these patients versus 57% of patients who were currently using triptans reported adverse effects ( p < .0001, Fisher’s exact test). The number of patients reporting adverse effects significantly decreased with age ( r = −0.230, p < .005, simple linear regression analysis). The triptan discontinued by the highest percentage of patients (84%) was subcutaneous 6 mg sumatriptan. Significantly more patients reported adverse effects with subcutaneous 6 mg (89%) and tablet 100 mg sumatriptan (67%) than with any other triptan.

Conclusions: The increase of the tolerability of triptans with age could partly explain why younger patients suffering from less severe migraine tend to discontinue triptans more than older patients suffering from more severe migraine. In the latter, the efficacy and better tolerability (but not necessarily safety) of triptans could foster the overuse of these medications.
OnabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of chronic migraine: Results from the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase of the PREEMPT 1 trial
Authors: Aurora SK , Dodick DW , Turkel CC , DeGryse RE , Silberstein SD , Lipton RB , Diener HC , Brin MF
Published: March 2010

Objectives: This is the first of a pair of studies designed to assess efficacy, safety and tolerability of onabotulinumtoxinA (BOTOX®) as headache prophylaxis in adults with chronic migraine.

Methods: The Phase III REsearch Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis Therapy 1 (PREEMPT 1) is a phase 3 study, with a 24-week, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase followed by a 32-week, open-label phase. Subjects were randomized (1:1) to injections every 12 weeks of onabotulinumtoxinA (155 U–195 U; n = 341) or placebo ( n = 338) (two cycles). The primary endpoint was mean change from baseline in headache episode frequency at week 24.

Results: No significant between-group difference for onabotulinumtoxinA versus placebo was observed for the primary endpoint, headache episodes (−5.2 vs. −5.3; p = 0.344). Large within-group decreases from baseline were observed for all efficacy variables. Significant between-group differences for onabotulinumtoxinA were observed for the secondary endpoints, headache days ( p = .006) and migraine days ( p = 0.002). OnabotulinumtoxinA was safe and well tolerated, with few treatment-related adverse events. Few subjects discontinued due to adverse events.

Conclusions: There was no between-group difference for the primary endpoint, headache episodes. However, significant reductions from baseline were observed for onabotulinumtoxinA for headache and migraine days, cumulative hours of headache on headache days and frequency of moderate/severe headache days, which in turn reduced the burden of illness in adults with disabling chronic migraine.
Nickel-induced apoptosis and relevant signal transduction pathways in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Cai Kezhou  , Ren Chong  , Yu Zengliang
Published: March 2010

Many investigations have shown that nickel exposure can induce micronuclei generation, inhibit DNA repair and induce cell apoptosis, both in cells and tissues. However, there is a lack of appropriate in vivo animal models to study the underlying mechanisms of nickel-induced apoptosis. The model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans, has been shown to be a good model for investigating many biological processes. In the present study, we detected 0.01 mM nickel induced significantly germline cell apoptosis after treatment for 12 hours, which demonstrated that C. elegans could be a mammalian in vivo substitute model to study the mechanisms of apoptosis. Then gene knockout C. elegans strains were utilized to investigate the relationship between nickel-induced apoptosis and relevant signal pathways, which were involved in DNA damage and repair, apoptosis regulation and damage signal transduction. The results presented here demonstrated that nickel-induced apoptosis was independent of the DNA damage response gene, such as hus-1, p53/cep-1 and egl-1. The loss-of-function of the genes that related to Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling cascades suppressed nickel-induced germline apoptosis, while ERK signaling cascades have no effects on the nickel-induced germline apoptosis.
Cognitive functions changes among Egyptian sewage network workers
Authors: Sahar Ali Farahat  , Nirmeen Adel Kishk
Published: March 2010

The current work aimed at investigating the cognitive functions impairment among workers of sewer networks due to exposure to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and the relation of this impairment, if any, to the level of H2S exposure biomarker ‘urinary thiosulfate.’ Besides, the validity of using Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) as screening test for cognitive impairment among the exposed workers was tested. The work was conducted among 33 sewage network maintenance male workers and a matched unexposed control group (n = 30). The participants were subjected to clinical neurological history, estimation of urinary thiosulfate, and assessment of cognitive dysfunction by using neurophysiological (simple reaction time, P300 test) and neuropsychological tests (Wechsler Memory Scale) and frontal executive functions tests. Clinical neurological history revealed significantly higher neurological symptoms (headache, memory defects, lack of concentration) among exposed workers compared to their controls (p < 0.05). Exposed workers had significantly prolonged simple reaction time and delayed P300 latency and showed poor performance of most of neuropsychological tests. Marked elevation of urinary thiosulfate was observed among the exposed workers (p < 0.001) but this elevation was not correlated with the duration of exposure or any of the other measured parameters. Exposed workers had significantly lower mean value of MMSE scoring than that of the controls (p < 0.001). In conclusion, exposure to H 2S among sewer network workers is associated with cognitive impairment, which can be screened by applying MMSE as a simple rapid test for H 2S occupationally exposed workers.
Influence of the Elasticity Module of Synthetic and Natural Polymeric Tissue Substitutes on the Mobility of the Diaphragm and Healing Process in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Böhm G. , Binnebösel M. , Krähling E. , Schumpelick V. , Steinau G. , Stanzel S. , Anurov M. , Titkova S. , Öttinger A. , Speer M.
Published: March 2010

Mesh implants are frequently used in congenital diaphragmatic hernia. This experimental study aimed to examine the influence of different materials on the diaphragmatic movement over time as well as their mechanical qualities after 4 months. Ultrapro®, Surgisis®, and Proceed ® were implanted onto a diaphragmatic defect in growing rabbits. Diaphragmatic mobility was determined at three time points. At 4 months, defect shrinkage and mechanical properties were measured. The break strength decreased for Ultrapro® and Surgisis®, but did not change relevantly for Proceed®. Ultrapro® (32.46 N/cm) and Proceed® (31.75 N/cm) showed a four-fold higher resistance to tearing than Surgisis® (8.31 N/cm). The elasticity of Ultrapro® showed no significant difference compared to Surgisis® ( p = 0.75). Proceed®, on the other hand, was more than twice as elastic as Ultrapro® or Surgisis ® ( p = 0.015). Ultrapro® had a higher spring rate (6.48 N/mm) compared to Surgisis® (3.82 N/mm) or Proceed ® (5.23 N/mm). Observing the standardized movement rates of the diaphragm for each mesh group over time the only statistical differences were seen for the Proceed® group. On account of its material qualities Ultrapro® was found to be the most suitable mesh material for demanding locations in our model.
Pluripotential Differentiation Capability of Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells in a Novel Fibrin-agarose Scaffold
Authors: Nieto-Aguilar R. , Serrato D. , Garzón I. , Campos A. , Alaminos M.
Published: March 2010

The potentiality of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) cultured on 2D systems has been previously established. Nevertheless, very little is known so far about the differentiation potentiality of ASCs in 3D culture systems using biomaterials. In this work, we have evaluated the transdifferentiation capabilities of ASCs cultured within a novel fibrin-agarose biomaterial by histological analysis, histochemistry and immunofluorescence. Our results showed that 3D fibrin-agarose biomaterial is highly biocompatible and supports the transdifferentiation capabilities of ASCs to the osteogenic, chondrogenic, adipogenic, and neurogenic lineages.
Modification of Liposomes with Proteins by Dansyl-labeled Heterobifunctional Crosslinker
Authors: Chen Tao , Wang Rutao , Lu Tingting , Liang Guozheng , Lu Tingli
Published: March 2010

The introduction of a fluorescent chromaphore into bifunctional crosslinkers results in a molecule with normal crosslinker properties and a fluorescent group for straightforward quantification. This work describes the synthesis of the dansyl-labeled heterobifunctional crosslinker N-succinimidyl ε-N-dansyl α-N-(acetylthio)acetyllysine (dansyl-ATA-lysine-NHS) containing reactive N-hydroxysuccinimidyl (NHS) ester and sulfhydryl groups. The application of this crosslinker to conjugation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein to the surface of a liposome containing maleimide functions is also demonstrated. BSA was modified with the dansyl-labeled crosslinker and subsequently conjugated to liposomes containing reactive phospholipid derivative N-[4-(p-maleimidophenyl)butyryl]phosphatidylethanolamine and the degree of modification and conjugation were quantitatively determined by measuring the fluorescence emission of the dansyl group. The reliability of the fluorescence quantification was confirmed by a micro bio-barcode assay protein assay.
Effects of Parental Monitoring and Exposure to Community Violence on Antisocial Behavior and Anxiety/Depression Among Adolescents
Authors: Bacchini Dario , Concetta Miranda Maria , Affuso Gaetana
Published: March 2010

The aim of the research was to investigate the influence of gender, exposure to community violence, and parental monitoring upon antisocial behavior and anxiety/depression in adolescence. Involved in the study were 489 adolescents (290 males and 189 females) from 4 secondary schools in the city of Naples, Italy. The age of participants ranged from 16 to 19 (mean age = 17.53, standard deviation = 1.24). All were in the 3rd (11th grade) or 5th year (13th grade) of high school. Self-reported measures were used to assess antisocial behavior, symptoms of anxiety/depression, parental monitoring and exposure to community violence as a victim or as a witness. First of all we tested, through a hierarchical multiple regression, the independent contribution of gender, exposure to community violence and parental monitoring upon antisocial behavior and symptoms of anxiety/depression; then we tested the moderating role of gender and parental monitoring on the negative effects of exposure to violence. The results show that male gender, high level of exposure to community violence (both as a victim and a witness), and low level of parental monitoring predict a higher involvement in antisocial behavior. Female gender, being a victim and low level of parental monitoring predict symptoms of anxiety/depression. Furthermore, parental monitoring and gender play a moderating role, minimizing or amplifying the negative effects of exposure to community violence. The results of the research suggest that a similar pattern of risk and protective factors can give rise to multiple paths of adaptive or maladaptive development.
Estimating Prevalences of Sensitive Problems From Nonsensitive Data
Authors: Heyman Richard E. , Smith Slep Amy M.
Published: March 2010

Accurate and regularly updated prevalences are critical to guide both prevention and policy. However, despite their impact on public health, the prevalence of behavioral and mental health problems such as child maltreatment and intimate partner violence (IPV) are collected infrequently (e.g., once per decade or less). The purpose of this study is to test the viability of using nonsensitive, dynamic variables to estimate prevalences of sensitive behavioral problems. Several archival data sets of partner and child maltreatment are used. Data sets are randomly divided into development and cross-validation subsets. Sequential, backward, stepwise logistic regression is used to derive estimation equations, which are then tested in the cross-validation subset. The results indicate that estimated prevalences are close to the measured prevalences. Confidence intervals (95%) are approximately the same as those that pertain to measured prevalences (±1%-2%). In situations where it is either too expensive or too sensitive to assess a population regularly on a problem of interests, it appears as if policy makers and prevention planners can use regularly collected, nonsensitive data to estimate accurately the prevalence of unmeasured, sensitive outcomes.
Increasing Fundraising Efficiency Through Evaluation: Applying Communication Theory to the Nonprofit Organization— Donor Relationship
Authors: Waters Richard D.
Published: March 2010

Light has documented a decline in the public confidence expressed in charitable organizations. Given the importance of individual donors to the sector, it is vital to understand how these organizations cultivate relationships with donors to survive sectorwide controversies. The organization—public relationship (OPR) framework allows the current study to assess the well-being of the nonprofit organization—donor relationship.Through 1,706 surveys administered to randomly sampled donors at three western United States nonprofit hospitals, the results indicate that the nonprofit— donor relationship is healthy in terms of the relationship evaluation; however, the impact of cultivation strategies suggested by communication theory varies significantly for major gift and annual giving donors. Structural equation modeling provides insights for fundraisers on how they can streamline their fundraising programs to maximize the impact of their cultivation efforts.
Social Networks, Recruitment, and Volunteering: Are Social Capital Effects Conditional on Recruitment?
Authors: Paik Anthony , Navarre-Jackson Layana
Published: March 2010

Prior research has found that several types of social networks—social and associational ties, religious involvement, and recruitment contacts—promote volunteering. This article extends the literature by examining whether social tie diversity matters for volunteering and whether the effects of social networks are conditional on being recruited or not. Using the 1999 Giving and Volunteering Survey, the authors estimated probit models of being asked to volunteer and volunteering. The results show that social tie diversity, the number of associational ties, and religious involvement are each associated with recruitment. Recruitment itself is an important predictor of volunteering. Religious involvement is associated with higher probabilities of volunteering conditional on being asked, whereas social tie diversity and the number of associational ties increase volunteering among those not asked.The results indicate that associations between social networks and volunteering depend on both recruitment and whether these relationships create bridging versus bonding social capital.
Time-response relationship of nano and micro particle induced lung inflammation. Quartz as reference compound
Authors: Roursgaard Martin , Poulsen Steen S , Poulsen Lars K , Hammer Maria , Jensen Keld A , Utsunomiya Satoshi , Ewing Rodney C , Balic-Zunic Tonci , Nielsen Gunnar D , Larsen Søren T
Published: March 2010

An increasing number of engineered particles, including nanoparticles, are being manufactured, increasing the need for simple low-dose toxicological screening methods. This study aimed to investigate the kinetics of biomarkers related to acute and sub-chronic particle-induced lung inflammation of quartz. Mice were intratracheal instilled with 50 µg of microsized or nanosized quartz. Acute inflammation was assessed 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 48 hours post exposure, whereas sub-chronic inflammation was investigated 3 months after exposure. Markers of acute inflammation in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were neutrophils (PMN), tumor necrosis factor-alfa (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), keratinocyte derived chemokine (KC) and total protein, which were all close to maximum 16 hours post instillation. No major differences were seen in the time-response profiles of nano- and micro-sized particles. The potency of the two samples cannot be compared; during the milling process, a substantial part of the quartz was converted to amorphous silica and contaminated with corundum. For screening, BALF PMN, either TNF-α or IL-1β at 16 hours post instillation may be useful. At 3 months post instillation, KC, PMN and macrophages were elevated. Histology showed no interstitial inflammation three months post instillation. For screening of sub-chronic effects, KC, PMN, macrophages and histopathology is considered sufficient.
Bioavailability of arsenic in soil: Pilot study results and design considerations
Authors: Stanek Edward J , Calabrese Edward J , Barnes Ramond M , Danku John MC , Ying Zhou  , Kostecki Paul T , Zillioux Edward
Published: March 2010

Bioavailability of arsenic (As) from ingested soil is estimated in a two-period experimental study involving 11 subjects/period. In the first period, a 7-day mass-balance study measured As in food/beverages, urine, and stool to estimate bioavailability of As in food and beverages. Food/beverage As bioavailability (percentage ingested that is not in stool samples) is estimated as 91.0% with a 95% confidence interval given by (84.1%, 97.9%). In the second 7-day study period, subjects were placed on an As suppression diet. In the evening of day 2, each subject ingested a capsule containing 0.63 g of soil, including approximately 111.7 µg of soil-As. The bioavailability estimate of As from food and beverage ingestion during the first 2 days of the second period was 89.7%. Bioavailability of soil-As was estimated over the 5-day period following capsule ingestion, accounting for estimated bioavailability of food/beverage As. Assuming analytic recovery rates of As from combined soil and food/beverage samples are equal, soil-As bioavailability is estimated as 48.7% (95% CI [36.2%, 61.3%]). Relative to bioavailability of As from food/beverage sources, soil-As is estimated to be 54.3% (95% CI [40.3%, 68.4%]) as bioavailable.
Increases in discontinuous rib cartilage and fused carpal bone in rat fetuses exposed to the teratogens, busulfan, acetazolamide, vitamin A, and ketoconazole
Authors: Dodo T. , Uchida K. , Hirose T. , Fukuta T. , Kojima C. , Shiraishi I. , Kato E. , Horiba T. , Mineshima H. , Okuda Y. , Maeda M. , Katsutani N. , Hirano K. , Aoki T.
Published: March 2010

Skeletal changes induced by treatment of pregnant rats with four potent teratogens, busulfan, acetazolamide, vitamin A palmitate, and ketoconazole, were evaluated using Alizarin Red S and Alcian Blue double-staining to investigate the relationship between drug-induced skeletal malformations and cartilaginous changes in the fetuses. Pregnant rats (N = 8/group) were treated once or twice between gestation days (GDs) 10 to 13 with busulfan at doses of 3, 10, or 30 mg/kg; acetazolamide at 200, 400, or 800 mg/kg; vitamin A palmitate at 100,000, 300,000, or 1,000,000 IU/kg; or ketoconazole at doses of 10, 30, or 100 mg/kg. Uterine evaluations and fetal external and skeletal examinations were conducted on GD 20. Marked skeletal abnormalities in ribs and hand/forelimb bones such as absent/ short/bent ribs, fused rib cartilage, absent/fused forepaw phalanx, and misshapen carpal bones were induced at the mid- and high-doses of busulfan and acetazolamide and at the high-dose of vitamin A palmitate and ketoconazole. Increased incidences of discontinuous rib cartilage (DRC) and fused carpal bone (FCB) were observed from the low- or mid-dose in the busulfan and acetazolamide groups, and incidences of FCB were increased from the mid-dose in the vitamin A palmitate and ketoconazole groups. Therefore, DRC and FCB were detected at lower doses than those at which ribs and hand/forelimb malformations were observed in the four potent teratogens.
Finite Element Model of Smart Beams with Distributed Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Bendary I.M. , Elshafei M. Adnan , Riad A.M.
Published: March 2010

In the present work, the static and the dynamic analysis of intelligent advanced beams structures with piezoelectric actuators have been studied. The structure substrate is made of isotropic and/or anisotropic materials, subjected to axial and transverse mechanical loads as well as electrical load. The actuators’ layers are made of piezoelectric material of PZT type. The model is able to solve the structure with piezoelectric actuators either patches or completely covers the structure; in the upper or lower surface or impeded in the structure. The classical laminate theory is used to represent the deformation of the lamination for each considered structure. The ID isoperimetric Hermit cubic shape functions and the Lagrange interpolation functions are used to formulate the finite element model for the distributed coupled electromechanical behavior. The equations of motion of each structure system is obtained by using the principle of total potential energy considering the Euler-Bernoulli beam assumptions. A Matlab code is prepared to perform the analysis of such beams. The results of the proposed finite element model for each structure are compared to the available finite element and analytical results of other investigators, good agreement is generally obtained.
Profiling of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia Antibody Levels in Patients With and Without Diabetes
Authors: Diaz Josephina , Prechel Margaret , Emanuele Maryann , Emanuele Nicholas , Walenga Jeanine M.
Published: March 2010

Heparin/platelet factor 4 (H:PF4) antibodies are the causative agent in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). The antibodies are frequently formed after exposure to heparin, most commonly without any signs of clinical HIT. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia antibodies have been detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in individuals who have not been exposed to heparin. It is possible that the antibodies could be elicited by PF4 associated with endogenous, heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). This risk would be higher in individuals with endothelial dysfunction and chronic platelet activation. In the setting of an outpatient endocrinology clinic, both diabetic and nondiabetic patients were studied and compared with healthy volunteers. Heparin/platelet factor 4 antibody titers were measured by ELISA and analyzed to determine the frequency of clinically seropositive responses, and median and interquartile ranges of baseline antibody titers. The study found no increase in frequency of ELISA-positive patients among diabetic patients. Moreover, the diabetic population had lower overall level of H:PF4 antibody titer, especially the subgroups treated with thiazolidinedione drugs or angiotensin receptor blockers. Further studies are needed to determine whether subthreshold titers of HIT antibody may be reflective of the physiological state of platelet/endothelial balance.
Antiplatelet Therapy Prasugrel: A Novel Platelet ADP P2Y12 Receptor Antagonist
Authors: Mousa Shaker A. , Jeske Walter P. , Fareed Jawed
Published: March 2010

Novel adenosine diphosphate (ADP) P2Y12 antagonists, including prasugrel, ticagrelor, cangrelor and elinogrel, are in various phases of clinical development. These ADP P2Y12 antagonists have advantages over clopidogrel ranging from faster onset to greater and less variable inhibition of platelet function. Novel ADP P2Y12 antagonists are under investigation to determine whether their use can result in improved antiplatelet activity, faster onset of action, and/or greater antithrombotic effects than clopidogrel, without an unacceptable increase in hemorrhagic or other side effects. Prasugrel (CS-747; LY-640315), a novel third-generation oral thienopyridine, is a specific, irreversible antagonist of the platelet ADP P2Y12 receptor. Preclinical and early phase clinical studies have shown prasugrel to be characterized by more potent antiplatelet effects, lower interindividual variability in platelet response, and faster onset of activity compared to clopidogrel. Recent findings from large-scale phase III testing showed prasugrel to be more efficacious in preventing ischemic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); however, this is achieved at the expense of an increased risk of bleeding. Prasugrel provides more rapid and consistent platelet inhibition than clopidogrel.
Women Don’t Do Such Things! Characteristics of Female Sex Offenders and Offender Types
Authors: Wijkman Miriam , Bijleveld Catrien , Hendriks Jan
Published: March 2010

The authors studied offender, offense, and victim characteristics in a cohort of 111 adult female sex offenders comprising all female sex offenders known to the criminal justice authorities in the Netherlands between 1994 and 2005. In 77% of the cases, the female sex offenders had abused children; almost two thirds of the women had co-offended with a male co-offender. Their backgrounds are on average problematic with sexual abuse being prominent (31%); mental disorders were also prominent (59%). Using multiple correspondence analysis, the authors distinguished four prototypical offender types. They identified the young assaulter and the rapist who are relatively young solo offenders. Two prototypes, the psychologically disturbed co-offender and the passive mother, comprise older women. They mostly abused their own children together with their male/intimate partner. These prototypes partly overlap with previous typologies. The authors discuss implications for theory and treatment.
Hosea 4—14 in Twentieth-Century Scholarship
Authors: Kelle Brad E.
Published: March 2010

Twentieth-century scholarship on Hosea has addressed a wide range of interpretive questions that often reflect the common approaches to the prophetic literature in general, yet an inordinate amount of attention has been paid to the marriage and family imagery in Hosea 1—3. In recent years, scholars have corrected this tendency, exploring ways that texts throughout Hosea 4—14 offer insights into long-standing critical issues. Rather than exhibiting a movement in which newer methodological perspectives have replaced older traditional approaches, all of the established, modern scholarly pursuits remain prominent in the current study of Hosea 4—14. Scholars are now reformulating the traditional questions, however, from new angles largely generated by interdisciplinary influences. These influences have also given rise to previously unexplored lines of inquiry, such as synchronic, literary, and theological readings, Book of the Twelve studies, and metaphor theory. Studies using metaphor theory with an eye toward religious, political, socio-economic, and gender considerations seem likely to occupy the central place in Hosea scholarship in the immediate future.
Sometimes Wave, Sometimes Particle
Authors: Brueggemann Walter
Published: March 2010

This article is a response to the ongoing, weighty and often caustic critique of my work by Robert Carroll. Over a lifetime of ‘ideology spotting’, Carroll has rejected any attempt to take the faith claims of the text with theological seriousness, and has targeted my work as a model for the failure of such an approach. My response is an insistence that every approach to the text, that of ‘ideology spotting’ as well as ‘theological seriousness’, moves from a faith claim and a ‘prejudice’, whether explicit or not. Thus, there is no ‘high ground’ in interpretation, as Carroll assumed about his own work in his dismissiveness of mine. Rather, interpretation that is generative is an act of playful imagination that allows, after Gadamer, for interpretation to move in and out of theological seriousness. Such a perspective seeks to shun very one-dimensional reductionism.
A Critical Review of Recent Scholarship on the Pauline Opposition and the Nature of its Wisdom (σοϕί α) in 1 Corinthians 1—4
Authors: Kwon Oh-Young
Published: March 2010

In recent scholarship Pauline scholars have hotly disputed the issues of identification of Paul’s opponents in 1 Cor. 1—4 and the nature of their σοϕία. The major hypotheses are summarized by the catchphrases: over-realized eschatology, proto-Gnosticism, Hellenistic Jewish wisdom tradition, the Petrine party, and rhetorical conventions. Of these hypotheses, this paper supports those scholars who investigate the identity of Paul’s Corinthian opponents in 1 Cor. 1—4 and the nature of their wisdom from the perspective of first-century Graeco-Roman culture. These scholars argue that the Pauline opposition in 1 Cor. 1—4 would have been a group of Corinthian Christians who were influenced by Graeco-Roman rhetorical elitism and uncritically exercised these rhetorical conventions in their Christian community and claimed their σοϕία to be based on these rhetorical patterns.
Review article: Asymmetric dimethylarginine as a mediator of vascular dysfunction and a marker of cardiovascular disease and mortality: an intriguing interaction with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Anderssohn Maike , Schwedhelm Edzard , Lüneburg Nicole , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Böger Rainer H.
Published: March 2010

Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) has evolved as an important regulator of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in recent years. Elevated levels of ADMA have been reported in many conditions associated with a high cardiovascular risk. Moreover, ADMA is a biomarker for major cardiovascular events and mortality in cohorts with high, intermediate and low overall cardiovascular risk. Discrepant data have been reported on cardiovascular risk in people with and without diabetes mellitus, and the association of ADMA with diabetes mellitus per se has also remained controversial, possibly relating to type and stage of diabetes. Clinical and experimental data suggest that there is a multifaceted link between ADMA and insulin metabolism and action on one hand, and ADMA and glucose utilisation on the other. This interplay may be regulated by the enzyme involved in the metabolic degradation of ADMA, dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH). Recent data from prospective clinical studies suggest that whilst ADMA may be a marker for total mortality in patients without diabetes, elevated ADMA may exert beneficial effects in patients with diabetes. In this respect, ADMA could serve as a re-coupling agent overcoming endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) uncoupling in patients with diabetes. Anticipated advances in clinical and experimental investigation will help us to better understand this complex interrelationship between diabetes, eNOS, DDAH and ADMA.
Rest-Activity and Light Exposure Patterns in the Home Setting: A Methodological Case Study
Authors: Higgins Patricia A. , Hornick Thomas R. , Figueiro Mariana G.
Published: March 2010

Background: This methodological case study describes light exposure and rest—activity patterns in an older adult with dementia and his caregiver spouse. Methods: Two devices were used to measure rest-activity and light exposure data: a wrist-worn actigraph with a light sensor to record full spectrum light exposure data and an eye-level wavelength-sensitive light meter (Daysimeter). The wife wore both devices simultaneously; the husband wore only the actigraph. Results: There were minimal feasibility issues in using the devices in the home setting. The wife’s light exposure was considerably better than her husband’s, but she spent little time in bright lighting. Her circadian stimulus (CS) and rest—activity values suggest a high level of circadian disruption. Conclusion: This case study provides beginning support for the use of the Daysimeter in the home setting while also highlighting unrecognized circadian disturbances and very low light levels in an older couple’s home.
Factors Associated With Time to Identify Physical Problems of Nursing Home Residents With Dementia
Authors: Kovach Christine R. , Logan Brent R. , Simpson Michelle R. , Reynolds Sheila
Published: March 2010

This study describes new problems emerging over 6 weeks for nursing home residents with advanced dementia and factors associated with time to identify the problems. The sample of 65 developed 149 new acute problems or exacerbations of existing conditions over the 6 weeks of data collection. The majority of these problems involved uncontrolled pain, new infections, and severe psychoses. Nurse assessment skill was associated with a shorter time to identify the new problem and more time spent on the problem. A higher ratio of new to existing interventions was also associated with a shorter time to identify the problem. Other patient characteristics associated with time to identify problems included nonspecific vocalizations, physical signs, cognitive status, and length of stay. While future research is warranted, findings from this study highlight the frequency of problems requiring treatment and suggest that improved assessment of residents may decrease the time to identify new problems.
Complications in the upper extremity following intra-arterial drug abuse
Authors: Lindfors N. C. , Vilpponen L. , Raatikainen T.
Published: March 2010

A retrospective study of drug abuse patients who developed arterial and venous complications in the upper extremity during 2002–2006 was performed. Twenty-two patients were admitted to hospital on 24 occasions over this period for treatment by our hand clinic. The drug most frequently causing complications was midazolam. The predominant clinical findings were increasing pain and loss of sensitivity in the hand, followed by oedema, cyanosis and marbling of the skin. Treatments included brachial block anaesthesia, low molecular weight heparin, embolectomy and fasciotomies. Despite these measures, amputations, mainly of the fingertips, were necessary in 15 patients. Complications in the upper extremity after self-injection by drug addicts are increasing; information and preventive procedures to minimize these complications are important and demanding tasks for health care bodies.
Comminution of the dorsal metaphysis and its effects on the radiographic outcomes of distal radius fractures
Authors: Makhni E. C. , Taghinia A. , Ewald T. , Zurakowski D. , Day C. S.
Published: March 2010

Comminution of the dorsal metaphysis is a relatively common feature of distal radius fractures. However, its effects on the radiographic outcomes of these fractures are not entirely understood. One hundred and twenty-four conservatively managed distal radius fractures were analysed retrospectively to assess the effect of dorsal metaphyseal comminution on fracture stability, especially with respect to initial displacement (minimally displaced versus displaced) and age group. Seventy-seven fractures (62%) had radiographic evidence of dorsal comminution. The secondary displacement rate of these fractures was 75%, compared to 45% in non-comminuted counterparts ( P < 0.001). In minimally displaced fractures, the secondary displacement rate was higher in those with dorsal comminution as compared to those without (57% vs. 31%, P = 0.086). Dorsal metaphyseal comminution was found in 75% of fractures in patients 65 + years old ( P = 0.05). Among those with dorsal comminution, the secondary displacement rates were similar for both men and women (63% vs. 79%; P = 0.20). In conclusion, distal radius fractures with dorsal metaphyseal comminution had significantly higher rates of secondary displacement compared to non-comminuted counterparts, and there exists a correlation with this displacement and increasing patient age but not gender.
Syndactyly correction: an aesthetic reconstruction
Authors: Jose R. M. , Timoney N. , Vidyadharan R. , Lester R.
Published: March 2010

Various flaps have been used with and without skin grafts to separate digits with syndactyly. Dorsal flap techniques with and without grafts result in dorsal and thus more visible scars. Some of the recent techniques which use no grafts are only applicable for some simple syndactylies. The technique described in this paper uses a combination of techniques which have been described previously. A shaped palmar flap is used to create the web space; narrow V-flaps and full-thickness skin grafts are used to resurface the lateral defects on the fingers and reciprocal pulp flaps are used to create aesthetically pleasing nail folds. This technique allows the full thickness grafts to be hidden on the radial and ulnar sides of the fingers and palm. It increases the span of the hand in conditions where there is shortage of palmar skin. A retrospective review has been undertaken of 102 patients in whom 221 webs were reconstructed through 176 surgical procedures. There were 54 cases of simple syndactylies (53%) and the rest were complex. Complications were encountered in 11 operations (6%) and web creep was noted in 12 web spaces (5%). Re-operation for web creep has been carried out in seven web spaces (3%).
The digital venous drainage in the human embryonic hand
Authors: Sbernardori M. C.
Published: March 2010

The histogenesis and morphology of the digital venous drainage in human embryonic and fetal hands, aged from 6 to 12 weeks, were studied by light microscopy in 18 fingers. In the sixth week, capillaries could be identified around the cartilaginous models of the phalanges. By the ninth week, the neurovascular bundles were identifiable in the palmar part of the finger. In 12 week fetuses, all of the superficial and deep vascular venous system could be seen easily in the palmar aspect of the finger in positions similar to those in the adult hand. However, the arch systems, present on the dorsum of the finger in the adult hand, were not yet differentiated.
Extension fractures of the distal radius in patients older than 50: a prospective randomized study comparing fixation using mixed pins or a palmar fixed-angle plate
Authors: Marcheix P.-S. , Dotzis A. , Benkö P.-E. , Siegler J. , Arnaud J.-P. , Charissoux J.-L.
Published: March 2010

We randomized 103 patients over the age of 50 with an unstable closed intra- or extra-articular dorsally displaced distal radius fracture to have either palmar fixed-angle plating ( n = 50) or ‘mixed pinning’ ( n = 53) and compared the clinical and radiological outcomes at 3, 6, 12 and 26 weeks after surgery in a prospective study. Postoperative palmar tilt was significantly better in those stabilized with K-wires, but loss of reduction was statistically less in those stabilized with a plate. At 26 weeks, functional results, assessed by DASH and Herzberg scores, were better in those fixed with a plate.
Infantile and juvenile lunatomalacia
Authors: Irisarri C. , Kalb K. , Ribak S.
Published: March 2010

Lunatomalacia or avascular necrosis of the lunate in children is a rare disease not described by Kienböck. It is somewhat surprising that the term Kienböck’s disease has been used to describe this disease of the lunate in children. We report our experience in 13 cases and review the literature. In children under 12, the prognosis is very good after immobilization alone. Persistent symptoms may indicate surgery, probably radial shortening, in some older teenagers although the outcome appears better than in adults. We suggest the term lunatomalacia to describe this disorder, in recognition of the term originally used by Kienböck.
A new technique of flexor profundus repair in the distal part of zone I: inclusion of the palmar plate
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M. , Al-Turaiki T. M. , Al-Zahrani A. Y. , Al-Harbi M. S. , Al-Kahtani F. S.
Published: March 2010

Flexor profundus lacerations in the distal part of zone I are usually treated by tendon reinsertion into bone. We present a modified technique in which three ‘figure of eight’ sutures include the palmar plate in the distal purchase. Inclusion of the palmar plate significantly strengthens the tensile strength of the repair and this was confirmed biomechanically in an experimental study. In a prospective clinical study, 15 patients with clean-cut complete lacerations of the profundus tendon in the distal part of zone I underwent the modified repair technique of three separate ‘figure of eight’ sutures with the palmar plate included in the suture distally and 7 mm suture purchase proximally, with postoperative immediate active motion that ensured full active extension of the interphalangeal joints. There were no ruptures or infections. At final follow-up 12–25 weeks after surgery, the mean range of motion at the distal, proximal, and combined interphalangeal joints was 66°, 100° and 166° respectively. All patients achieved an excellent or good outcome.
Modelling generation mechanism of defects during permanent mould centrifugal casting process of TiAl alloy exhaust valve
Authors: Su Y. , Guo J. , Wu S. , Sheng W. , Fu H.
Published: March 2010

In this paper, the TiAl liquid filling process during vertical centrifugal casting into a permanent mould has been described analytically. A model has been established to simulate the forward filling and backward filling process, and two parameters were used to provide a quantitative description of the defect generation that is associated with the forward filling of the mould cavity. One of the parameters used was the forward filling cross-sectional area, and the other was the inclined angle of the free surface of forward filling flow. The cross-sectional area decreases, and the inclined angle increases when the rotational speed increases, the tendency of which becomes more obvious near the mould cavity entrance. The residual volume of the mould cavity after the forward filling is related to the volume of trapped pores. The filling process has also been investigated using numerical simulation. Based on the filling and solidification characteristic of a TiAl valve, the off-centre porosity distribution is also discussed.
Investigation on microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti14 alloy after semisolid deformation
Authors: Chen Y. N. , Wei J. F. , Zhao Y. Q.
Published: March 2010

This study details the development of microstructure of Ti14 alloy as a function of the forging temperature and forging ratio in semisolid state and influence of resulting microstructure on the mechanical properties. The results reveal that dynamic recrystallisation occurred during semisolid forging, and the grain refinement was attained. Grain size increased in the forging temperature and decreased in the forging ratio. High ultimate tensile strengths and low elongation have been achieved after semisolid forging. The strength decreased with increasing forging temperature, while the ductility increased with increasing forging ratio. The relative contributions of tensile properties were attributed to the varieties of grain size obtained by thixoforging.
Morphology and composition of strontium calcium aluminate matrix doped with Dy3+
Authors: Hamdan S. , Hussin R. , Salim M. A. , Husin M. S. , Abdul Halim D. N. F. , Abdullah M. S.
Published: March 2010

The aim of the present study was to determine the influence of doping rare earth ion on strontium calcium aluminate (CaO–SrO–SiO2–Al2O3). Therefore, the authors have manufactured luminescent material consisting of 40CaO–5SrO–5SiO2–50Al2O3 doped with Dy3+. The compositions have been selected on the basis of chemical stability. Five pellets were prepared with different calcination temperatures and times, namely 400 and 600°C for 1 and 2 h, in order to shed light on their luminescence behaviour. X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and scanning electron microscopy elaborate and characterise the formation of small particle of photoluminescent material in the phosphor matrix host material.
A note on casting speed of Ohno continuous casting process
Authors: Soda H. , McLean A. , Motoyasu G.
Published: March 2010

The Ohno continuous casting process, known as the OCC process, is a heated mould crystallisation process that permits the generation of single crystal or cast products with a unidirectional structure. In this process, solidification takes place at the mould exit. Thus, the understanding of the process parameters is crucial to the successful application of this technology. The present note is aimed at clarifying the often misunderstood factors influencing the casting speed of the process.
Bulk nickel–carbon nanotube nanocomposites by laser deposition
Authors: Singh A. R. P. , Hwang J. Y. , Scharf T. W. , Tiley J. , Banerjee R.
Published: March 2010

Nickel–carbon nanotube (CNT) nanocomposites have been processed in a bulk form using a laser deposition technique, commercially known as the laser engineered net shaping (LENS) process. Mechanical milling of the powder feedstock consisting of nickel powders and CNTs before laser deposition has resulted in not only a more homogeneous distribution of the nanotubes in the nickel matrix, but also two distinct scales of reinforcements within the composite. The larger reinforcement scale consists of submicrometre to micrometre sized bundles of CNTs while the smaller scale consists of individual (or cluster of a few) CNTs within the nickel matrix. High resolution transmission electron microscopy studies indicate that the nickel/CNT interface is well bonded without the presence of any significant interfacial reaction product. The degree of disorder and defects in the CNT bundles in the nickel matrix varied as a function of bundle size as revealed by Raman spectroscopy results.