bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rigid multibody method for free vibration analysis of beams with variable axial parameters
Authors: Nikolić Aleksandar , Šalinić Slaviša
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a new approach to the problem of determining the frequencies and mode shapes of Euler–Bernoulli tapered cantilever beams with a tip mass and a spring at the free end. The approach is based on the replacement of the flexible beam by a rigid multibody system. Beams with constant thickness and exponentially and linearly tapered width, as well as double-tapered cantilever beams are considered. The influence of the tip mass, stiffness of the spring, and taper on the frequencies of the free transverse vibrations of tapered cantilever beams are examined. Numerical examples with results confirming the convergence and accuracy of the approach are given.
Come Dance With Fredrikke Me
Authors: Reinertsen Anne B. , Borgenvik Katrine
Published: March 2015

Teachers are vulnerable and the teacher role today is characterized by a blurred or indistinct “isolation.” They are exposed to constant pressure from the outside because it is expected that their practices are legitimized through science and a subsequent educative technical structuring. Henry Giroux calls it a neoliberal “war against teachers in dark times.” This, therefore, is other and about empowered professionalism through transcendental approaches facilitating the subject’s own understandings of the structures and discourses that are influencing own becomings, and teachers choosing one’s own educative processes. It is about me and you and our expertise of own struggles: Fredrikke and/as Mysciences, Myscapings, and Mypedagogies.
Tax Reform in Monopolistic Competition with Increasing Preferences for Variety
Authors: Vetter Henrik
Published: March 2015

Nearly all comparisons of ad valorem and unit taxes follow Suits and Musgrave in demonstrating the welfare dominance of ad valorem taxes. We study unit and ad valorem taxes in a monopolistic competition model where, as is the normal case, consumers have increasing preferences for variety. We show that introducing more unit taxation and less ad valorem taxation can increase consumer welfare and the tax revenue when consumers’ utility depends on both quantity and variety. To understand this, notice that more unit taxation, under a price-neutral criterion, increases tax revenue. That is, aggregate output increases after the tax change. On the other hand, we show that aggregate output goes up because variety goes up, which explains that decreased product variety cannot offset the favorable change in aggregate output.
Assessment of intravenous adipose-derived allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of feline chronic kidney disease: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial in eight cats
Authors: Quimby Jessica M , Webb Tracy L , Randall Elissa , Marolf Angela , Valdes-Martinez Alex , Dow Steve W
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Feline chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis, and inflammation contributes to the progression of renal fibrosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects in rodent CKD models. However, few randomized trials evaluating the effectiveness of MSC therapy for diseases in companion animals have been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of allogeneic MSCs for the treatment of feline CKD using a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Methods

MSCs were isolated from the cryopreserved adipose tissues of specific pathogen-free research cats and culture expanded. CKD cats were enrolled in a randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded one-way crossover clinical study. Four CKD cats were randomized to receive 2 × 106 MSCs/kg intravenously at 2, 4 and 6 weeks. Four CKD cats were randomized to receive placebo, with two cats crossing over to the MSC treatment group and one cat failing to complete the trial. Complete blood counts, chemistry and urinalysis were performed at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) via nuclear scintigraphy and urine protein:creatinine ratio (UPC) were determined at weeks 0 and 8.

Results

Six cats received three doses of allogeneic MSC culture expanded from cryopreserved adipose without adverse effects. No significant change in serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, GFR by nuclear scintigraphy, UPC or packed cell volume was seen in cats treated with MSCs. Individual changes in GFR were 12%, 8%, 8%, 2%, –13% and –67% in treated cats compared with 16%, 36% and 0% in placebo-treated cats.

Conclusions and relevance

While administration of MSC culture expanded from cryopreserved adipose was not associated with adverse effects, significant improvement in renal function was not observed immediately after administration. Long-term follow-up is necessary to determine whether MSC administration affects disease progression in cats with CKD.
Standards of care for feline urethral catheters in the UK
Authors: Holroyd Kate , Humm Karen
Published: March 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the standards of care for urethral catheters (UCs) placed in male cats for treatment of urethral obstruction (UO). It also assessed whether these standards were influenced by year of graduation of the veterinary surgeon (VS).

Methods

One hundred veterinary practices were randomly selected, and a telephone survey was conducted with a VS in the practice. Regarding the last urethral catheterisation performed for a male cat with UO, the VS was asked about the use of antibiotics while the catheter was in situ, whether a closed urinary collection system was used, whether aseptic skin preparation of the patient was performed and whether aseptic hand preparation was performed. A χ2 test was used to determine whether there were significant differences in these percentages when considering year of graduation.

Results

Twenty-seven percent of VSs did not use antibiotics while the urethral catheter was in place, 44% used closed urinary collection systems, 41% performed aseptic skin preparation of the patient and 60% aseptically prepared their hands and wore sterile gloves. There was a statistically significant ( P <0.01) difference in antibiotic usage, closed collection system usage and aseptic hand preparation across graduation year groups.

Conclusions and relevance

Non-sterile urethral catheter placement with open urinary drainage and antibiotic prophylaxis is still a widespread practice among VSs; however, more recent graduates are more likely to perform the procedure aseptically with a closed urinary collection system and withholding of antibiotics. There is a need for further education for postgraduate veterinarians in the prevention of catheter-associated urinary tract infections in cats and further research to provide evidence-based guidelines for feline urethral catheter care.
Barriers to Treatment of Tinea Capitis in Children Living in the Jane Finch Community of Toronto
Authors: Zur Rebecca L. , Shapero Jonathan , Shapero Harvey
Published: March 2015

Background:

Tinea capitis is a common fungal infection of the scalp. If left untreated, tinea capitis infection can cause severe inflammatory reactions and the development of kerion. Tinea capitis is effectively treated with oral antifungals, but at present these are not covered under government assistance programs.

Objective:

To assess the potential impact of a limited use code for antifungal therapy in the treatment of childhood tinea capitis.

Method:

Fourteen family physicians practicing in the Jane Finch area were surveyed on their experience treating tinea capitis in this community.

Results:

Seventy-one percent of surveyed family physicians felt that cost impedes the treatment of tinea capitis in their practice, and 100% felt that a limited use code would have a positive impact on their patients.

Conclusion:

A limited use code for oral antifungal treatments of tinea capitis may provide a simple, cost-effective solution to a major problem impacting children in the Jane Finch area.
The effect of cognitive flexibility on task switching and language switching
Authors: Liu Huanhuan , Fan Ning , Rossi Sonja , Yao Panpan , Chen Baoguo
Published: March 2015

Aims:

The present study aimed at investigating whether cognitive flexibility plays the same role in language switching as in task switching.

Design:

Cognitive flexibility (CF) of 52 low proficiency Chinese (L1)–English (L2) bilinguals was assessed by the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task. These bilinguals were then subdivided in 26 high- and 26 low-CF participants. Both groups performed a task-switching (Simon switch task) and a language-switching task (picture-naming task). The former task required participants to press a button congruent or incongruent to the pointing direction of an arrow, while in the latter participants had to name pictures in their L1 and L2.

Data and analysis:

Both response latencies and accuracy scores were obtained. Afterwards switch costs (i.e. longer latencies or reduced accuracy for switch in contrast to repeat trials) were calculated.

Findings:

Results of the Simon switch task showed that switch costs for congruent and incongruent trials were symmetrical in the high-CF group, whereas the low-CF group showed larger switch costs for congruent than incongruent trials. Similarly, results of the language-switch task showed symmetrical switch costs for naming pictures in their L1 and L2 for the high-CF group, but L1 switch costs were larger than L2 ones in the low-CF group. These findings indicate that cognitive flexibility can modulate switch costs of two different switching tasks. This is in line with the inhibitory control model and the task-set inertia theory which assume that cognitive flexibility might modulate the symmetry of different types of switch costs via inhibition. This study provides first direct evidence that cognitive flexibility plays a comparably important role in language switching as well as in task switching. Thus, cognitive flexibility can be beneficial for low proficiency bilinguals’ inhibitory control during task switching and language switching.
YouTube and bereavement vlogging: Emotional exchange between strangers
Authors: Gibson Margaret
Published: March 2015

Through a qualitative study of YouTube bereavement vlogs and posts by young people about parental death, this article examines the rise and significance of intimate mourning between strangers. An unexpected finding of this research has been the speed with which young people create vlogs or post messages of their bereavement; very often within hours of a death. The question of time in relation to bereavement grief is thus a feature of this article’s analysis. The article argues that YouTube, like other social media, exposes and contests the disenfranchising of grief in offline social settings and relationships while, at the same time, enfranchising disaffected and excluded bereavement discourse via media sociality. It also argues, conversely, that YouTube, like other social media, is now a primary social space (not secondary or supplementary); it provides the where and how and who to connect with regarding personal grief and bereavement.
Comparison of benazepril and losartan on endothelial function and vascular stiffness in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gismondi Ronaldo AOC , Oigman Wille , Bedirian Ricardo , Pozzobon Cesar R , Ladeira Marcia C Boaventura , Neves Mario F
Published: March 2015

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of benazepril and losartan on endothelial function and vascular stiffness, in patients with diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

Materials and methods:

We included hypertensive diabetic patients with an office systolic blood pressure (BP) ⩾ 130 mmHg and/or diastolic BP ⩾ 80 mmHg. Patients were rolled over to amlodipine for 6 weeks, then we performed C-reactive protein assays, BP measurement and vascular tests; next, patients were randomized to benazepril or losartan. The tests were repeated after 12 weeks.

Results:

We randomized 14 patients to benazepril and 16 to losartan. There were no differences in systolic (139 versus 134 mmHg, p = 0.618) and diastolic (82 versus 80 mmHg, p = 0.950) BP at the end of the study. C-reactive protein values were lower in the benazepril group (0.38 versus 0.42 mg/dl, p = 0.020). There was a slightly higher flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) response in the benazepril group (45% increase, p = 0.057) than in the losartan group (19% increase, p = 0.132). Both central systolic BP (129 versus 123 mmHg, p = 0.934) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) (8.5 versus 8.5 m/s, p = 0.280) were the same between groups.

Conclusions:

Hypertensive diabetic patients using benazepril had a greater reduction in C-reactive protein, and a slight improvement in FMD, than those taking losartan.
Light, vision and illumination: The interaction revisited
Authors: Loe DL
Published: March 2015

This paper explores the possible need for changes to illumination measurement and design on the basis of a wider consideration of the human eye’s response to light and lighting. Following a long career in illumination research and observation I have concluded that to base so much on foveal response must be wrong. The paper makes a summary review of past research leading to the conclusion that there is a need to take account of the response of the whole retina in terms of conscious and sub-conscious sight affecting possible physiological processes. With the rapid development of the light emitting diode the need for a more comprehensive approach to illumination measurement and design is particularly important. The work concludes with some suggested research to carry the work forward.
Polysaccharide K and Coriolus versicolor Extracts for Lung Cancer
Authors: Fritz Heidi , Kennedy Deborah A. , Ishii Mami , Fergusson Dean , Fernandes Rochelle , Cooley Kieran , Seely Dugald
Published: March 2015

Background. Polysaccharide K, also known as PSK or Krestin, is derived from the Coriolus versicolor mushroom and is widely used in Japan as an adjuvant immunotherapy for a variety of cancer including lung cancer. Despite reported benefits, there has been no English language synthesis of PSK for lung cancer. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review of PSK for the treatment of lung cancer. Methods. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, AltHealth Watch, and the Library of Science and Technology from inception to August 2014 for clinical and preclinical evidence pertaining to the safety and efficacy of PSK or other Coriolus versicolor extracts for lung cancer. Results. Thirty-one reports of 28 studies were included for full review and analysis. Six studies were randomized controlled trials, 5 were nonrandomized controlled trials, and 17 were preclinical studies. Nine of the reports were Japanese language publications. Fifteen of 17 preclinical studies supported anticancer effects for PSK through immunomodulation and potentiation of immune surveillance, as well as through direct tumor inhibiting actions in vivo that resulted in reduced tumor growth and antimetastatic effects. Nonrandomized controlled trials showed improvement of various survival measures including median survival and 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival. Randomized controlled trials showed benefits on a range of endpoints, including immune parameters and hematological function, performance status and body weight, tumor-related symptoms such as fatigue and anorexia, as well as survival. Although there were conflicting results for impact on some of the tumor-related symptoms and median survival, overall most randomized controlled trials supported a positive impact for PSK on these endpoints. PSK was safely administered following and in conjunction with standard radiation and chemotherapy. Conclusions. PSK may improve immune function, reduce tumor-associated symptoms, and extend survival in lung cancer patients. Larger, more rigorous randomized controlled trials for PSK in lung cancer patients are warranted.
Meta-Analysis of Massage Therapy on Cancer Pain
Authors: Lee Sook-Hyun , Kim Jong-Yeop , Yeo Sujung , Kim Sung-Hoon , Lim Sabina
Published: March 2015

Cancer pain is the most common complaint among patients with cancer. Conventional treatment does not always relieve cancer pain satisfactorily. Therefore, many patients with cancer have turned to complementary therapies to help them with their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Massage therapy is increasingly used for symptom relief in patients with cancer. The current study aimed to investigate by meta-analysis the effects of massage therapy for cancer patients experiencing pain. Nine electronic databases were systematically searched for studies published through August 2013 in English, Chinese, and Korean. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and Cochrane risk-of-bias scales. Twelve studies, including 559 participants, were used in the meta-analysis. In 9 high-quality studies based on the PEDro scale (standardized mean difference, −1.24; 95% confidence interval, −1.72 to −0.75), we observed reduction in cancer pain after massage. Massage therapy significantly reduced cancer pain compared with no massage treatment or conventional care (standardized mean difference, −1.25; 95% confidence interval, −1.63 to −0.87). Our results indicate that massage is effective for the relief of cancer pain, especially for surgery-related pain. Among the various types of massage, foot reflexology appeared to be more effective than body or aroma massage. Our meta-analysis indicated a beneficial effect of massage for relief of cancer pain. Further well-designed, large studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to be able to draw firmer conclusions regarding the effectiveness.
Exploring Perceptions and Experiences of Bolivian Health Researchers With Research Ethics
Authors: Sullivan Sarah , Aalborg Annette , Basagoitia Armando , Cortes Jacqueline , Lanza Oscar , Schwind Jessica S.
Published: March 2015

In Bolivia, there is increasing interest in incorporating research ethics into study procedures, but there have been inconsistent application of research ethics practices. Minimal data exist regarding the experiences of researchers concerning the ethical conduct of research. A cross-sectional study was administered to Bolivian health leaders with research experience ( n = 82) to document their knowledge, perceptions, and experiences of research ethics committees and infrastructure support for research ethics. Results showed that 16% of respondents reported not using ethical guidelines to conduct their research and 66% indicated their institutions did not consistently require ethics approval for research. Barriers and facilitators to incorporate research ethics into practice were outlined. These findings will help inform a comprehensive rights-based research ethics education program in Bolivia.
Three-dimensional pose estimation model for object with complex surface
Authors: Li Ronghua , Chen Yong , Zhou Changjiu , Zhang Liandong
Published: March 2015

The proposed three-dimensional pose estimation model for object with complex surface, which primarily absorbs the essence of scale-invariant feature transform and iterative closest point algorithm, includes two steps, off-line and online. At first, two kinds of feature databases are established in the off-line operations. Then, the online process mainly has three steps. The first one is two-dimensional edge extraction from red–green–blue (RGB) information based on scale-invariant feature transform algorithm. The second one is three-dimensional surface reconstruction from the previous two-dimensional edge and the depth information obtained from depth camera. The last one is three-dimensional pose estimation based on camera calibration and iterative closest point algorithm. The Kinect camera is selected as the information acquisition device which can produce red–green–blue information and depth information. In the experiment, the container twist-lock with complex surface is taken as the object. The result shows that the accuracy of the proposed model is very high.
Investigation on heat transfer of a rotor blade tip with various film cooling holes arrangements and groove depths
Authors: Tong Fujuan , Gou Wenxuan , Li Lei , Liu Qingchang , Yue Zhufeng , Xie Gongnan
Published: March 2015

In this article, the effects of film cooling holes arrangement and groove depth on the heat transfer and film cooling performance of blade tip are investigated. For this numerical research, a high-pressure turbine blade with the squealer tip is applied, and the tip clearance is given to be 0.8 mm (1% of the blade span). Simultaneously, a typical tip cooling technology of film holes in the groove floor is used. The number of film holes is fixed at 10, and two kinds of holes arrangements are considered: (1) equidistance distribution and (2) dense distribution near the leading edge. Three groove depths are studied with the values of 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 mm (1.875%, 2.5%, and 3.125% of the blade span, respectively). The results show that the area-averaged film cooling effectiveness is higher when the holes distribute densely near the leading edge, and the cooling effect of the groove depth with 2.0 mm is obviously high compared with the other two depths.
Influence of surface roughness on the friction property of textured surface
Authors: Zhou Yuankai , Zhu Hua , Zhang Wenqian , Zuo Xue , Li Yan , Yang Jianhua
Published: March 2015

In contrast with dimple textures, surface roughness is a texture at the micro-scale, essentially which will influence the load-bearing capacity of lubricant film. The numerical simulation was carried out to investigate the influence of surface roughness on friction property of textured surface. The lubricant film pressure was obtained using the method of computational fluid dynamics according to geometric model of round dimple, and the renormalization-group k–ε turbulent model was adopted in the computation. The numerical simulation results suggest that there is an optimum dimensionless surface roughness, and near this value, the maximum load-bearing capacity can be achieved. The load-bearing capacity is determined by the surface texture, the surface roughness, and the interaction between them. To get information of friction coefficient, the experiments were conducted. This experiment was used to evaluate the simulation. The experimental results show that for the frequency of 4 and 6 Hz, friction coefficient decreases at first and then increases with decreasing surface roughness, which indicates that there exists the optimum region of surface roughness leading to the best friction reduction effect, and it becomes larger when area fractions increase from 2% to 10%. The experimental results agree well with the simulation results.
An integrated multidisciplinary design optimization method for computer numerical control machine tool development
Authors: Zhang Zaifang , Song Jianjun , Liu Yuan , Xu Danhua
Published: March 2015

Computer numerical control machine tool is a typical complex product related with multidisciplinary fields, complex structure, and high-performance requirements. It is difficult to identify the overall optimal solution of the machine tool structure for their multiple objectives. A new integrated multidisciplinary design optimization method is then proposed by using a Latin hypercube sampling, a Kriging approximate model, and a multi-objective genetic algorithm. Design space and parametric model are built by choosing appropriate design variables and their value ranges. Samples in design space are generated by optimal Latin hypercube method, and design variable contributions for design performance are discussed for aiding the designer’s judgments. The Kriging model is built by using polynomial approximation according to the response outputs of these samples. The multidisciplinary design model is established based on three optimization objectives, that is, setting mass, optimum deformation, and first-order natural frequency, and two constraints, that is, second-order natural frequency and third-order natural frequency. The optimal solution is identified by using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. The proposed method is applied in a multidisciplinary optimization case study for a typical computer numerical control machine tool. In the optimal solution, the mass decreases by 3.35% and the first-order natural frequency increases by 4.34% in contrast to the original solution.
Improved non-dimensional dynamic influence function method based on tow-domain method for vibration analysis of membranes
Authors: Kang SW , Atluri SN
Published: March 2015

This article introduces an improved non-dimensional dynamic influence function method using a sub-domain method for efficiently extracting the eigenvalues and mode shapes of concave membranes with arbitrary shapes. The non-dimensional dynamic influence function method (non-dimensional dynamic influence function method), which was developed by the authors in 1999, gives highly accurate eigenvalues for membranes, plates, and acoustic cavities, compared with the finite element method. However, it needs the inefficient procedure of calculating the singularity of a system matrix in the frequency range of interest for extracting eigenvalues and mode shapes. To overcome the inefficient procedure, this article proposes a practical approach to make the system matrix equation of the concave membrane of interest into a form of algebraic eigenvalue problem. It is shown by several case studies that the proposed method has a good convergence characteristics and yields very accurate eigenvalues, compared with an exact method and finite element method (ANSYS).
Regulation of CCN1 (Cyr61) in a porcine model of intestinal ischemia/reperfusion
Authors: Shegarfi Hamid , Krohn Claus Danckert , Gundersen Yngvar , Kjeldsen Signe Flood , Hviid Claus VB , Ruud Tom Erik , Aasen Ansgar O
Published: March 2015

Intestinal ischemia is a serious condition that may lead to both local and systemic inflammatory responses. Restoration of blood supply (reperfusion) to ischemic tissues often increases the extent of the tissue injury. Cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61)/CCN1 is an extracellular matrix-associated signaling protein that has diverse functions. CCN1 is highly expressed at sites of inﬂammation and wound repair, and may modify cell responses. This study aimed to investigate regulation and cellular distribution of CCN1 in intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in pigs. After intestinal I/R, increased expression of CCN1 was detected by quantitative RT-PCR, Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry compared with non-ischemic intestine. Immunoflorescence staining revealed that CCN1 was mainly up-regulated in intestinal mucosa after intestinal I/R. Microvillus epithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells were strongly positive for CCN1 in intestinal I/R, while natural killer cells and/or subsets of neutrophils were only modestly positive for CCN1. Furthermore, blood samples taken from the portal and caval veins during ischemia and after reperfusion showed no change of the CCN1 levels, indicating that CCN1 was locally regulated. In conclusion, these observations show, for the first time, that the CCN1 molecule is up-regulated in response to intestinal I/R in a local manner.
Attenuation of LPS-induced cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible NO synthase expression by lysophosphatidic acid in macrophages
Authors: Chien Han-Yuan , Lu Chih-Shen , Chuang Kun-Han , Kao Pu-Hong , Wu Yuh-Lin
Published: March 2015

LPS can activate the inflammatory cascades by inducing various inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) resulting from cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and NO produced by inducible NO synthase (iNOS). Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) has been demonstrated to participate in inflammation. This study aimed to clarify the impact and the involving mechanisms of LPA on LPS-incurred inflammation in macrophages. First, LPA appeared to attenuate LPS-induced protein and mRNA expression of COX-2 and iNOS genes, as well as production of PGE2 and NO. By using selective inhibitors targeting various signaling players, the inhibitory G protein alpha subunit (Gαi) seemed to be involved in the effect of LPA; p38, ERK and NF-κB were involved in the LPS-mediated COX-2/PGE2 pathway; and p38, JNK, phosphoinositide-3-kinase and NF-κB were involved in the LPS-mediated iNOS/NO pathway. LPA was able to diminish LPS-induced phosphorylation of p38 and Akt, as well as NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation. By utilization of inhibitors of COX-2 and iNOS, there appeared to be no modulation between the COX-2/PGE2 and the iNOS/NO signaling pathways. Our findings demonstrate a clear anti-inflammatory role of LPA acting via Gαi in LPS-mediated inflammatory response in macrophages, owing, at least in part, to its suppressive effect on LPS-induced activation of p38, Akt and NF-κB.
The relationship of TIMI risk index with SYNTAX and Gensini risk scores in predicting the extent and severity of coronary artery disease in patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Acet Halit , Ertaş Faruk , Bilik Mehmet Zihni , Aydın Mesut , Yüksel Murat , Polat Nihat , Yıldız Abdulkadir , Özyurtlu Ferhat , Akıl Mehmet Ata , Çiftçi Leyla , Özbek Mehmet , Alan Sait , Toprak Nizamettin
Published: March 2015

Objective:

The prognostic value of the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score (GRS) and the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk index (TRI) have been reported in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). In this study, we sought to evaluate the association between TRI and the extent and severity of CAD evaluated by SYNTAX score (SS) and Gensini score in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods:

A total of 290 patients with STEMI were included in the study. GRS and TRI were calculated on admission using specified variables. The extent and severity of CAD were evaluated using the SS and Gensini scores. The patients were divided into low (TRI ⩽19), intermediate (TRI 19–30), and high (TRI ⩾30) risk groups. A Pearson correlation analysis was used for the relationship between TRI, GRS, Gensini score and SS.

Results:

There were significant differences in the mean age ( p < 0.001), admission heart rate ( p < 0.001), admission systolic blood pressure ( p = 0.009), SS ( p < 0.001), GRS ( p < 0.001) and in-hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in all patients between the low, intermediate and high TRI risk groups. There was a positive significant correlation between TRI and SS ( r = 0.24, p < 0.001), Gensini score ( r = 0.18, p = 0.002), GRS ( r = 0.74, p = 0.001) and in-hospital MACE ( r = 0.29, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

TRI is significantly related to SS and Gensini score in predicting the extent and severity of CAD in patients with STEMI.
A balloon-expandable sheath facilitates transfemoral TAVR in patients with peripheral vascular disease and tortuosity
Authors: Goldsweig Andrew M. , Faheem Osman , Cleman Michael W. , Forrest John K.
Published: March 2015

Objectives:

We sought to perform transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) via the transfemoral approach in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD), small caliber ileofemoral vessels and vascular tortuosity.

Background:

For patients with increased surgical risk, TAVR is associated with a higher 1-year survival rate than surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Transfemoral vascular access for TAVR results in superior outcomes versus procedures performed via other routes in terms of mortality, morbidity and healthcare economics. In many patients, the ability to safely perform the procedure via the transfemoral approach is limited by narrow, diseased and tortuous ileofemoral vasculature.

Methods:

We employed the SoloPath Balloon Expandable TransFemoral Access System (Terumo Med. Corp., Tokyo, Japan) to perform transfemoral TAVR in five patients with PAD, small caliber ileofemoral vessels and vascular tortuosity.

Results:

We report our experience using this balloon-expandable sheath during 5 cases of transfemoral TAVR in patients with inhospitable ileofemoral vasculature of mean diameter ⩽5.8 mm. The unexpanded sheath’s malleable structure and hydrophilic coating permitted deployment despite severe stenoses and tortuosity. Subsequent inflation to 18 Fr facilitated successful TAVR. Postprocedural angiography demonstrated no significant vascular access complications. In one case, the entire procedure was performed percutaneously, without common femoral artery surgical cutdown.

Conclusions:

The SoloPath sheath system permits transfemoral TAVR in patients with PAD small caliber ileofemoral vessels and vascular tortuosity. The transfemoral balloon-expandable sheath allowed these patients to avoid the increased morbidity and mortality risks associated with direct aortic or transapical access.
Early ‘shallow’ needle-knife papillotomy and guidewire cannulation: an effective and safe approach to difficult papilla
Authors: Fiocca Fausto , Fanello Gianfranco , Cereatti Fabrizio , Maselli Roberta , Ceci Vincenzo , Donatelli Gianfranco
Published: March 2015

Introduction:

Needle-knife sphincterotomy (NKS), known as ‘precut’, is used worldwide to facilitate access to the common bile duct when standard cannulation has failed. This procedure is considered hazardous because it is burdened with high procedural related complications (bleeding and perforation). Its right timing is still debated. In this study we report our results using a modified precut approach, early shallow needle-knife papillotomy (eSNKP) coupled with guidewire cannulation in case of difficult papilla. We evaluated its safety and effectiveness.

Methods:

From 2012 to 2014, 1034 patients underwent therapeutic ERCP. A total of 138 of them presented difficult papilla and were treated with eSNKP performed after 5 failed attempts of standard guidewire cannulation. Deep biliary cannulation rate was recorded, as well as intraoperative and postoperative complication rate.

Results:

Successful biliary deep cannulation was achieved in 132/138 patients (95.7%) by means of eSNKP. In 6 patients (4.3%), cannulation failed even after eSNKP. ERCP was newly performed 72 hours later with successful and immediate guidewire biliary cannulation. Overall morbidity was 10.1% (14/138). No perforation occurred. Minor bleeding occurred in 4/138 cases (2.9%) and 10/138 patients (7.2%) developed mild pancreatitis.

Conclusion:

In case of difficult papilla, eSNKP followed by guidewire cannulation increases the successful deep biliary cannulation with low rate of complications.
The role of teleconferences in global public health education
Authors: Pinzon-Perez Helda , Zelinski Christy
Published: March 2015

This paper presents a global health education program using a ‘Teleconference’ approach. It provides examples of how technology can be used to deliver health education at the international level. Two international teleconferences about public health issues were conducted in 2013 and 2014 involving universities and public health institutions in Colombia, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Uganda, and the United States. More than 400 students, faculty, and community members attended these educational events. These teleconferences served as the medium to unite countries despite the geographical distances and to facilitate collaborations and networking across nations. Teleconferences are an example of effective technology-based health education and health promotion programs.
Symptomatic Bipartite Medial Cuneiform
Authors: Steen Eric F. , Brancheau Steven P. , Nguyen Tho , Jones Marc D. , Schade Valerie L.
Published: March 2015

Bipartition of the medial cuneiform is a well-described but rarely seen anatomic variant. The majority of literature focuses on anatomic description and incidents based on studies of archeological collections. Symptomatic cases can be overlooked or misdiagnosed initially given the vague complaint of pain either chronic in nature or following an acute injury that could result in a myriad of foot conditions. Treatment ranges from orthotics, immobilization, injection therapy, and surgery. Presented here is a series of 5 cases treated successfully with conservative and surgical measures.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Metabolic abnormalities in patients treated with percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Nandwani GM , Stoves J , Azhar MF , Pereni CI , Shah T
Published: March 2015

Objectives:

To assess metabolic abnormalities in patients with percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) that could pose a risk for stone recurrence.

Materials and methods:

The data was collected retrospectively on all patients who had PCNL and metabolic studies, between January 2000 and September 2012.

Results:

There were 144 patients; median age and follow up were 49.5 (15– 4) years and 80.2 (16–180) months, respectively. Nearly half of the patients had staghorn calculus. Metabolic abnormalities (MAs) were found in 55 (38.2%). The 31 (21.5%) of these had multiple metabolic abnormalities (MMA) while 24 (16.6%) had a single metabolic abnormality (SMA). Uricosuria was found in 24 (16.6%), hyperoxaluria in 22 (15.3%), hyperphosphaturia in 18 (12.5%), hypercalciuria in 10 (7%), hypomagnesuria in 6 (4.2%), cystinuria in 5 (3.5%) and hypocitraturia in 5 (3.5%). Hyperuricaemia was present in 10 (7%), hypercalcaemia in 5 (3.5%), hyperphosphataemia in 7 (5%) and renal tubular acidosis in 1 (0.7%). In non-staghorn, MAs were found in 25 (35.2%) and 16 (64%) of these had MMA. In patients with staghorn, MAs were present in 30 (41%) patients. Half of the patients 15 (50%) in this group had MMA. A high proportion of the first time stone formers requiring surgical treatment had MAs and 57% of these had MMA. Stone analysis was available for 69 (48%) and 37 (53.6%) of these had mixed composition. The highest proportion of patients with uric acid stones had MA 89% followed by cystine stones 80%, matrix stones 50%, calcium oxalate 36.6%, carbonate apatite 36.4% and triple phosphate 33.3% .

Conclusion:

A high proportion of first time stone formers, staghorn and non-staghorn stone formers with PCNL had MA. These findings suggest that the treatment of metabolic abnormalities can play an important role in reducing the risk of stone recurrences and management may include referral to dedicated metabolic stone clinics.
Expanding Capacity for Hepatitis C Treatment in the United States
Authors: Kwong Jeffrey , Epstein Rachel
Published: March 2015

Hepatitis C treatment is rapidly evolving with significant improvements in patient outcomes. With an estimated prevalence of over 3 million persons living with chronic hepatitis C in the United States, it is anticipated that there will be an increase in the number of persons seeking care and treatment for chronic hepatitis C infection. Current systems of care may be overburdened with people seeking care for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV). Interprofessional models of care have been shown to be feasible and effective in treating different populations affected by chronic HCV. Use of interprofessional teams, integrated models of care, and greater use of nonphysician providers offer a potential solution for expanding capacity to comprehensive HCV treatment and care in the United States.
Israel’s Perceptions of the PLO: From Recognition to the ‘No Partner’ Paradigm
Authors: Meital Yoram
Published: March 2015

The widespread conception within Israel that there is ‘no partner’ for peace on the Palestinian side lies in the failure to distinguish between the recognition of the State of Israel and recognizing it as a Jewish state. Seeking the PLO to explicitly recognize the State of Israel on the eve of the signing of the Declaration of Principles had transformed into the demand to recognize Israel as the Jewish state as the prerequisite for final status negotiations. While the former was an essential precondition for the Oslo accords, the latter is highly controversial and mirrors a disputed ideological stand between Israel and the Palestinians.
The Nexus between Economic Freedom and Islamic Bank Performance: Empirical Evidence from the MENA Banking Sectors
Authors: Sufian Fadzlan
Published: March 2015

The present study provides new empirical evidence on the impact of economic freedom on Islamic banks’ performance. The empirical analysis focuses on Islamic banks operating in the MENA banking sectors during the period 2000–2008. We find that the larger, more diversified, and better capitalized Islamic banks tend to be relatively more profitable, while credit risk and expense preference behavior seem to exert negative impact. The findings suggest that greater financial freedom positively influence the profitability of Islamic banks operating in the MENA banking sectors. Interestingly, the impact of monetary freedom is negative implying that higher (lower) monetary policy independence reduces (increases) Islamic banks’ profitability, providing support to the benefits of government interventions.
Teaching in a Millennial World
Authors: Oomen-Early Jody , Early Aron D.
Published: March 2015

New media encompasses an increasing spectrum of digital technologies from animation tools to virtual worlds. Most Millennial students entering college today do not know a world without computers or new media. Hence, one of the biggest challenges facing higher education today is bridging the gap between these “digital natives” and faculty who may see themselves as digital immigrants. Some scholars argue that higher education faculty, in general, are using 20th-century methods to teach 21st-century students. The early exposure to and use of technology inside and outside of the classroom has shaped the way Millennials learn and the need for faculty to adopt new approaches. There is also an increasing global demand for technical competency and digital literacy across all professions including health promotion. Faculty play a key role in helping Millennial health students explore and apply new media tools to support their learning as well as to address current health challenges. Teaching by design theory encourages faculty to present an array of new media tools for students to use in order to analyze, apply, communicate, and create. The purpose of this article is twofold: first, to help those who teach and train health promotion specialists better engage the Millennial audience; and second, to present an abbreviated survey of new media categories and tools that health promotion faculty and practitioners may use to enhance their pedagogy.
Mechanical properties of dissimilar metal joints composed of DP 980 steel and AA 7075-T6
Authors: Squires L. , Lim Y.C. , Miles M. P. , Feng Z.
Published: March 2015

A solid state joining process, called friction bit joining, was used to spot weld aluminium alloy 7075-T6 to dual phase 980 steel. Lap shear failure loads for specimens without adhesive averaged ∼10 kN, while cross-tension specimens averaged 2·8 kN. Addition of adhesive with a thickness up to 500 μm provided a gain of ∼50% to lap shear failure loads, while a much thinner layer of adhesive increased cross-tension failure loads by 20%. Microstructures of the welds were martensitic, but the hardness of the joining bit portion was greater than that of the DP 980, owing to its higher alloy content. Softening in the heat affected zone of a welded joint appeared to be relatively small, though it was enough to cause nugget pullout failures in some lap shear tension specimens. Other failures in lap shear tension were interfacial, while all of the failures in cross-tension were interfacial.
Lectins from opportunistic bacteria interact with acquired variable-region glycans of surface immunoglobulin in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Schneider Dunja , Dühren-von Minden Marcus , Alkhatib Alabbas , Setz Corinna , van Bergen Cornelis A. M. , Benkißer-Petersen Marco , Wilhelm Isabel , Villringer Sarah , Krysov Sergey , Packham Graham , Zirlik Katja , Römer Winfried , Buske Christian , Stevenson Freda K. , Veelken Hendrik , Jumaa Hassan
Published: March 2015

Key Points

BCR variable-region mannoses in follicular lymphoma are recognized by lectins of common opportunistic bacteria. Introduction of N-linked sugars into the BCR variable region interferes with antigen recognition.
Home oxygen and domestic fires
Authors: Cooper Brendan G.
Published: March 2015

Educational aims

To highlight the risk of domestic fires in the home use of oxygen

To recommend measures to reduce the risk
Oxidation precursor dependence of atomic layer deposited Al2O3 films in a-Si:H(i)/Al2O3 surface passivation stacks
Authors: Xiang Yuren , Zhou Chunlan , Jia Endong , Wang Wenjing
Published: March 2015

In order to obtain a good passivation of a silicon surface, more and more stack passivation schemes have been used in high-efficiency silicon solar cell fabrication. In this work, we prepared a-Si:H(i)/Al2O3 stacks on KOH solution-polished n-type solar grade mono-silicon(100) wafers. For the Al2O3 film deposition, both thermal atomic layer deposition (T-ALD) and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PE-ALD) were used. Interface trap density spectra were obtained for Si passivation with a-Si films and a-Si:H(i)/Al2O3 stacks by a non-contact corona C-V technique. After the fabrication of a-Si:H(i)/Al2O3 stacks, the minimum interface trap density was reduced from original 3 × 1012 to 1 × 1012 cm−2 eV−1, the surface total charge density increased by nearly one order of magnitude for PE-ALD samples and about 0.4 × 1012 cm−2 for a T-ALD sample, and the carrier lifetimes increased by a factor of three (from about 10 μs to about 30 μs). Combining these results with an X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, we discussed the influence of an oxidation precursor for ALD Al2O3 deposition on Al2O3 single layers and a-Si:H(i)/Al2O3 stack surface passivation from field-effect passivation and chemical passivation perspectives. In addition, the influence of the stack fabrication process on the a-Si film structure was also discussed in this study.
Nanosized silver (II) pyridoxine complex to cause greater inflammatory response and less cytotoxicity to RAW264.7 macrophage cells
Authors: Paul Avijit , Ju Hee , Rangasamy Sabarinathan , Shim Yumi , Song Joon Myong
Published: March 2015

With advancements in nanotechnology, silver has been engineered into a nanometre size and has attracted great research interest for use in the treatment of wounds. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as a potential alternative to conventional antibiotics because of their potential antimicrobial property. However, AgNPs also induce cytotoxicity, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and cause mitochondrial damage to human cells. Pyridoxine possesses antioxidant and cell proliferation activity. Therefore, in the present investigation, a nanosilver-pyridoxine complex (AgPyNP) was synthesized, and its cytotoxicity and immune response was compared with AgNPs in macrophage RAW264.7 cells. Results revealed that AgPyNPs showed less cytotoxicity compared with AgNPs by producing a smaller amount of ROS in RAW264.7 cells. Surprisingly, however, AgPyNPs caused macrophage RAW264.7 cells to secrete a larger amount of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and generate a more active inflammatory response compared to AgNPs. It activated TNF-α, NF-κB p65, and NF-κB p50 to generate a more vigorous immune protection that produces a greater amount of IL-8 compared to AgNPs. Overall findings indicate that AgPyNPs exhibited less cytotoxicity and evoked a greater immune response in macrophage RAW264.7 cells. Thus, it can be used as a better wound-healing agent than AgNPs.