bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A generalized transformation to convert an arbitrary perfect electric conductor into another arbitrary dielectric object
Authors: Huang Lujun , Zhou Daming , Wang Jian , Li Guanhai , Li Zhifeng , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei
Published: May 2011

A generalized transformation is proposed to design an illusion device. The device can reshape an arbitrarily shaped perfect electrical conductor (PEC) into another dielectric object with arbitrary geometry. Such a device can evolve into an ideal invisibility cloak with non-conformal boundaries if the virtual space is filled with air. Furthermore, the validity of our proposed transformation is confirmed by two specific devices. One is to convert a regular polygonal PEC cylinder into a circular dielectric cylinder. Another one is to reshape a circular PEC cylinder into a regular polygonal dielectric cylinder.
Coupling between long-range toroidal correlations and radial transport in the TJ-II boundary plasma
Authors: Silva C. , Hidalgo C. , Pedrosa M.A. , Carralero D. , Tamura N. , Ida K.
Published: May 2011

TJ-II is equipped with two probe systems that allow the simultaneous measurement of the radial and toroidal characteristics of the boundary plasma fluctuations with high temporal resolution. The interplay between long-range toroidal correlations, local cross-field particle transport and radial structure of the edge fluctuations has been investigated. Experimental evidence is presented that both the radial correlation and the turbulent particle transport are reduced in the region dominated by zonal flows (ZFs). Experimental findings show the key role of ZFs in the edge plasma transport regulation.
Optimization of the safety factor profile for high noninductive current fraction discharges in DIII-D
Authors: Ferron J.R. , Holcomb C.T. , Luce T.C. , Politzer P.A. , Turco F. , White A.E. , DeBoo J.C. , Doyle E.J. , Hyatt A.W. , La Haye R.J. , Murakami M. , Petrie T.W. , Petty C.C. , Rhodes T.L. , Zeng L.
Published: May 2011

In order to assess the optimum q profile for discharges in DIII-D with 100% of the current driven noninductively (f
NI = 1), the self-consistent response of the plasma profiles to changes in the q profile was studied in high f
NI, high βN discharges through a scan of q
min and q
95 at two values of βN. As expected, both the bootstrap current fraction, f
BS, and f
NI increased with q
95. The temperature and density profiles were found to broaden as either q
min or βN is increased. A consequence is that f
BS does not continue to increase at the highest values of q
min. A scaling function that depends on q
min, q
95, and the peaking factor for the thermal pressure was found to represent well the f
BS/βN inferred from the experimental profiles. The changes in the shapes of the density and temperature profiles as βN is increased modify the bootstrap current density (J
BS) profile from peaked close to the axis to relatively flat in the region between the axis and the H-mode pedestal. Therefore, significant externally driven current density in the region inside the H-mode pedestal is required in addition to J
BS in order to match the profiles of the noninductive current density (J
NI) to the desired total current density (J). In this experiment, the additional current density was provided mostly by neutral beam current drive with the neutral-beam-driven current fraction 40–90% of f
BS. The profiles of J
NI and J were most similar at q
min ≈ 1.35–1.65, q
95 ≈ 6.8, where f
BS is also maximum, establishing this q profile as the optimal choice for f
NI = 1 operation in DIII-D with the existing set of external current drive sources.
Onset and saturation of a non-resonant internal mode in NSTX and implications for AT modes in ITER
Authors: Breslau J.A. , Chance M.S. , Chen J. , Fu G.Y. , Gerhardt S. , Gorelenkov N. , Jardin S.C. , Manickam J.
Published: May 2011

Motivated by experimental observations of apparently triggerless tearing modes, we have performed linear and nonlinear MHD analysis showing that a non-resonant mode with toroidal mode number n = 1 can develop in the National Spherical Torus eXperiment (NSTX) at moderate normalized βN when the shear is low and the central safety factor q
0 is close to but greater than one. This mode, which is related to previously identified ‘infernal’ modes, will saturate and persist, and can develop poloidal mode number m = 2 magnetic islands in agreement with experiments. We have also extended this analysis by performing a free-boundary transport simulation of an entire discharge and showing that, with reasonable assumptions, we can predict the time of mode onset.
Transformed Hairy Roots of Discaria trinervis: A Valuable Tool for Studying Actinorhizal Symbiosis in the Context of Intercellular Infection
Authors: Imanishi Leandro , Vayssières Alice , Franche Claudine , Bogusz Didier , Wall Luis , Svistoonoff Sergio
Published: May 2011

Among infection mechanisms leading to root nodule symbiosis, the intercellular infection pathway is probably the most ancestral but also one of the least characterized. Intercellular infection has been described in Discaria trinervis, an actinorhizal plant belonging to the Rosales order. To decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying intercellular infection with Frankia bacteria, we set up an efficient genetic transformation protocol for D. trinervis based on Agrobacterium rhizogenes. We showed that composite plants with transgenic roots expressing green fluorescent protein can be specifically and efficiently nodulated by Frankia strain BCU110501. Nitrogen fixation rates and feedback inhibition of nodule formation by nitrogen were similar in control and composite plants. In order to challenge the transformation system, the MtEnod11 promoter, a gene from Medicago truncatula widely used as a marker for early infection-related symbiotic events in model legumes, was introduced in D. trinervis. MtEnod11::GUS expression was related to infection zones in root cortex and in the parenchyma of the developing nodule. The ability to study intercellular infection with molecular tools opens new avenues for understanding the evolution of the infection process in nitrogen-fixing root nodule symbioses.
A Review of Current and Emerging Approaches to Address Failure-to-Rescue
Authors: Taenzer Andreas H. , Pyke Joshua B. , McGrath Susan P. , Warner David S.
Published: May 2011

Failure-to-Rescue, defined as hospital deaths after adverse events, is an established measure of patient safety and hospital quality. Until recently, approaches used to address failure-to-rescue have been focused primarily on improvement of response to a recognized patient crisis, with limited success in terms of patient outcomes. Less attention has been paid to improving the detection of the crisis. A wealth of retrospective data exist to support the observation that adverse events in general ward patients are preceded by a significant period (on the order of hours) of physiologic deterioration. Thus, the lack of early recognition of physiologic decline plays a major role in the failure-to-rescue problem.
Agreement Between Patient‐ and Physician‐completed Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index Scores
Authors: Lee Jessica J , Colman Ruben J , Mitchell Paul D , Atmadja Melissa L , Bousvaros Athos , Lightdale Jenifer R
Published: May 2011

Objectives:

Currently validated ulcerative colitis (UC) activity measures are physician based, but incorporate patient reports of symptoms. We aimed to assess whether patient‐completed Pediatric UC Activity Index (PUCAI) scores are comparable to those of physician scores.

Patients and Methods:

We performed a single‐center prospective study to assess agreement between patient‐ and physician‐completed PUCAI scores. Seventy patients with UC (ages 4–29) representative of all of the disease activity categories (inactive, mild, moderate, and severe) in the currently published physician‐completed scoring system were recruited. Agreement was analyzed for PUCAI scores both as continuous and categorical measures. To ascertain validity, we compared both patient‐ and physician‐completed PUCAI scores with the physician global assessment and serum inflammatory markers.

Results:

Patient‐ and physician‐completed PUCAI summary scores were identical 49% of the time, were different but within the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 20 points 48% of the time, and were at or beyond the MCID only 3% of the time. In general, patients reported higher mean disease severity on their questionnaires than did their physicians, with a mean difference in PUCAI scores of 3 ± 8 (95% confidence interval 2%–5%). A categorical comparison of the 2 sets of questionnaires using the disease activity groups demonstrated perfect agreement for 60 (86%) pairs (kappa coefficient 0.78; 95% confidence interval 0.65%–0.90%). Both patient‐ and physician‐completed PUCAI scores also correlated well with the physician global assessment and serum inflammatory markers.

Conclusions:

Our data indicate strong agreement between PUCAI scores obtained directly from patients and those completed by physicians. Hence, a patient‐based PUCAI could complement existing instruments in both clinical and research settings.
Use of Fluoroscopy to Study In Vivo Motility in Mouse Pups
Authors: Williams Kent , Koyama Tatsuki , Schulz Daryl , Kaluza Grzegorz L , Pautler Robia G , Weisbrodt Norman , Conner Margaret E
Published: May 2011

Objectives:

Few methods exist to noninvasively study in vivo gastrointestinal motility in animal models of enteric infections. None have been used on mouse pups, which often display more severe symptoms during enteric infections than adult mice. This study sought to determine whether digital fluoroscopy could be used to evaluate gastrointestinal motility in mouse pups as well as adult mice.

Materials and Methods:

Fluoroscopic imaging studies were performed on normal 6‐ to 8‐week‐old adult mice and 12‐day‐old pups to develop protocols for evaluating gastric and intestinal wall movements and changes in stomach sizes. These protocols were then applied to evaluate motility in an established rotavirus mouse model. Imaging studies were performed on adult mice at 0, 2, and 4 days postinfection and on 12‐day‐old pups at 2 days postinfection.

Results:

Fluoroscopic studies revealed postnatal differences of gastric peristalsis and rates of intestinal contractions between normal mouse pups and adult mice. Studies of the rotavirus mouse model revealed that differences in gastric function occur between rotavirus‐infected and control mouse pups, but no discernible difference occurs between infected and control adult mice. In contrast, there were no detectable differences in rates of intestinal wall movements between control pups with normal stools and infected pups with loose stools.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that fluoroscopy can evaluate in vivo motility in mouse pups and by doing so provide findings that are clinically relevant to the study of enteric infections in young.
Physiological and Bifidogenic Effects of Prebiotic Supplements in Infant Formulae
Authors: Veereman‐Wauters G , Staelens S , Van de Broek H , Plaskie K , Wesling F , Roger LC , McCartney AL , Assam P
Published: May 2011

Objectives:

This randomized controlled trial involving 110 healthy neonates studied physiological and bifidogenic effects of galactooligosaccharides (GOS), oligofructose, and long‐chain inulin (fructooligosaccharides, FOS) in formula.

Methods:

Subjects were randomized to Orafti Synergy1 (50 oligofructose:50 FOS) 0.4 g/dL or 0.8 g/dL, GOS:FOS (90:10) 0.8 g/dL, or a standard formula according to Good Clinical Practice guidelines. A breast‐fed group was included for comparison. Outcome parameters were weight, length, intake, stool characteristics, crying, regurgitation, vomiting, adverse events, and fecal bacterial population counts. Statistical analyses used nonparametric tests.

Results:

During the first month of life, weight, length, intake, and crying increased significantly in all of the groups. Regurgitation and vomiting scores were low and similar. Stool frequency decreased significantly and similarly in all of the formula groups but was lower than in the breast‐fed group. All of the prebiotic groups maintained soft stools, only slightly harder than those of breast‐fed infants. The standard group had significantly harder stools at weeks 2 and 4 compared with 1 (P < 0.001 and P = 0.0279). The total number of fecal bacteria increased in all of the prebiotic groups (9.82, 9.73, and 9.91 to 10.34, 10.38, and 10.37, respectively, log10 cells/g feces, P = 0.2298) and more closely resembled the breast‐fed pattern. Numbers of lactic acid bacteria, bacteroides, and clostridia were comparable. In the SYN1 0.8 g/dL and GOS:FOS groups, Bifidobacterium counts were significantly higher at D14 and 28 compared with D3 and were comparable with the breast‐fed group. Tolerance and growth were normal.

Conclusions:

Stool consistency and bacterial composition of infants taking SYN1 0.8 g/dL or GOS:FOS–supplemented formula were closer to the breast‐fed pattern. There was no risk of dehydration.
Immunogenicity of Hepatitis A Vaccine in Children With Celiac Disease
Authors: Sari Sinan , Dalgic Buket , Basturk Bilkay , Gonen Sevim , Soylemezoglu Oguz
Published: May 2011

Objectives:

The response to hepatitis A vaccine has not been studied in children with celiac disease (CD). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the immunogenicity of an inactivated hepatitis A virus (HAV) vaccine and the effect of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) type on immunogenicity in children with CD.

Patients and Methods:

Thirty‐three patients with CD and 62 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Inactivated HAV vaccine (Havrix; GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, Rixensart, Belgium) containing 720 enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay units of alum‐adsorbed hepatitis A antigen was administered intramuscularly in a 2‐dose schedule at 0 and 6 months. Seroconversion rates and antibody titers of HAV were measured at 1 and 7 months.

Results:

At 1 month, seroconversion rates were 78.8% and 77.4% and geometric mean titers were 50.7 and 49.9 mIU/mL in the CD and control groups, respectively (P > 0.05). At 7 months, seroconversion rates were 97% and 98.4% and geometric mean titers were 138.5 and 133 mIU/mL in the CD and control groups, respectively (P > 0.05). The most frequent HLA types were HLA‐DQ2, ‐DR3, and ‐DR7 alleles in patients with CD and HLA‐DQ3, ‐DQ6, ‐DR11, and ‐DR14 in the controls. There was no association between HLA alleles and antibody titers of hepatitis A vaccine.

Conclusion:

Children with CD have a good immune response to hepatitis A vaccine, similar to healthy controls.
Biologically predisposed learning and selective associations in amygdalar neurons
Authors: Chung Ain , Barot Sabiha K. , Kim Jeansok J. , Bernstein Ilene L.
Published: May 2011

Modern views on learning and memory accept the notion of biological constraints—that the formation of association is not uniform across all stimuli. Yet cellular evidence of the encoding of selective associations is lacking. Here, conditioned stimuli (CSs) and unconditioned stimuli (USs) commonly employed in two basic associative learning paradigms, fear conditioning and taste aversion conditioning, were delivered in a manner compatible with a functional cellular imaging technique (Arc cellular compartmental analysis of temporal gene transcription by fluorescence in situ hybridization [catFISH]) to identify biological constraints on CS–US convergence at the level of neurons in basolateral amygdala (BLA). Results indicate coincident Arc mRNA activation within BLA neurons after CS–US combinations that yield rapid, efficient learning, but not after CS–US combinations that do not.
Inside the microcluster: antigen receptor signalling viewed with molecular imaging tools
Authors: Tolar Pavel
Published: May 2011

Over the last decade, live cell imaging has revealed the surprisingly complex orchestration of antigen receptor signalling at the immunological synapse. The imaging studies showed that one of the earliest steps in antigen receptor activation is the formation of submicroscopic clusters, which regulate the early signalling events. However, the molecular mechanisms operating inside these microclusters have remained beyond the resolution of optical microscopy. Recent development of imaging techniques that approach molecular resolution in intact cells offers a first view of the molecular processes inside these structures. Here I review the contributions of molecular imaging of the immunological synapse to our understanding of antigen receptor clustering, binding to antigens, and recruitment of signalling molecules. Finally, I provide an outlook on the future prospects of this rapidly advancing technology.
Signature of selection on the rhodopsin gene in the marine radiation of American seven‐spined gobies (Gobiidae, Gobiosomatini)
Authors: LARMUSEAU M. H. D. , VANHOVE M. P. M. , HUYSE T. , VOLCKAERT F. A. M. , DECORTE R.
Published: May 2011

In comparison with terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, information about speciation modes and the role of selection in marine environments is scarce. Recent studies have indicated that spectral adaptation could play an important role in the diversification of marine species flocks. Natural selection influences specific amino acids (AAs) that are involved in the spectral tuning mechanism of visual pigment genes. To study the wider occurrence and the characteristics of spectral adaptation in marine radiations, a reinterpretation of the rhodopsin (RH1) data of American seven‐spined gobies (genus Elacatinus; Gobiidae; Teleostei) was carried out. Reanalysis revealed that some AAs, which are well known in the literature as spectral tuning sites, are variable in Elacatinus. Those crucial AA substitutions originated polyphyletically, indicating convergent evolution within the genus Elacatinus. Moreover, statistical tests based on the dN/dS ratio detected selection in several phylogenetic lineages and at specific AAs. Many of these AAs were previously shown to be under selection in other marine radiations. Therefore, the current phylogenetic approach provided an extended list of AAs that are probably involved in spectral tuning, and which should be validated by mutagenic experiments.
Distinct modes of adventitious rooting in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: da Rocha Correa L. , Troleis J. , Mastroberti A. A. , Mariath J. E. A. , Fett‐Neto A. G.
Published: May 2011

The literature describes different rooting protocols for Arabidopsis thaliana as models to study adventitious rooting, and results are generally perceived as comparable. However, there is a lack of investigations focusing on the distinct features, advantages and limitations of each method in the study of adventitious rooting with both wild‐type (WT) ecotypes and their respective mutants. This investigation was undertaken to evaluate the adventitious rooting process in three different experimental systems, all using A. thaliana, analysing the same rooting parameters after transient exposure to auxin (indole‐3‐acetic acid) and control conditions: excised leaves, de‐rooted plants and etiolated seedlings. The founding tissues and sites of origin of roots differed depending on the system used, whereas all rooting patterns were of the direct type (i.e., without callus formation). None of the systems had an absolute requirement for exogenous auxin, although rooting was enhanced by this phytohormone, with the exception of de‐rooted plants, which had adventitious rooting strongly inhibited by exogenous auxin. Root elongation was much favoured in isolated leaves. Auxin‐overproducing mutants could not be used in the detached leaf system due to precocious senescence; in the de‐rooted plant system, these mutants had a WT‐like rooting response, whereas the expression of the ‘rooty’ phenotype was only evident in the etiolated seedling system. Adventitious rooting of etiolated WT seedlings in the presence of exogenous auxin was inhibited by exogenous flavonoids, which act as auxin transport inhibitors; surprisingly, the flavonoid‐deficient mutant chs had a lower rooting response compared to WT. Although Arabidopsis is an excellent model system to study adventitious rooting, physiological and developmental responses differed significantly, underlining the importance of avoiding data generalisation on rooting responses derived from different experimental systems with this species.
Floral ontogeny of Ruteae (Rutaceae) and its systematic implications
Authors: Wei L. , Wang Y.‐Z. , Li Z.‐Y.
Published: May 2011

Floral development was investigated in Ruta graveolens and Psilopeganum sinense, representing two genera in the tribe Ruteae. Special attention was paid to the sequence of initiation of organ whorls in the androecium and gynoecium. The antepetalous stamens arise at the same level as the antesepalous stamens in both species. The carpels are antepetalous in both taxa, indicating the androecium in both genera is obdiplostemonous. Compared with floral ontogeny of the ancestral genus Phellodendron (Toddalioideae), the obdiplostemonous androecium is a derived condition. The floral apex in P. sinense is quadrangular before initiation of the two carpels. Additionally, there are four dorsal and four ventral traces in the ovary. Integrated morphological and anatomical evidence indicates that the bicarpellate gynoecium in Psilopeganum most likely evolved from a tetracarpellate ancestor. Considering the similarities in morphological, geographical and chromosomal features, the ancestor may be Ruta‐like. Further molecular phylogenetic and genetic studies are needed to verify this assumption.
Gastric cancer risk according to the distribution of intestinal metaplasia and neutrophil infiltration
Authors: Sakitani Kosuke , Hirata Yoshihiro , Watabe Hirotsugu , Yamada Atsuo , Sugimoto Takafumi , Yamaji Yutaka , Yoshida Haruhiko , Maeda Shin , Omata Masao , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  Gastritis and intestinal metaplasia (IM) have long been known to be risk factors for and precursors of gastric cancer. We aimed to elucidate the association between gastric cancer risk and the distribution of precancerous lesions in the stomach by histological analyses.

Methods:  We analyzed patients from whom two biopsy specimens (one from the antrum and one from the corpus) were obtained by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Specimens were assessed for Helicobacter pylori, IM, and neutrophil infiltration (NI). Patients were classified into three groups based on the presence of IM. Patients were also classified into four groups based on the presence of NI. The prevalence of gastric cancer was compared between groups.

Results:  A total of 1395 patients were analyzed. Of these, 54 had gastric cancer (34 intestinal and 20 diffuse type). A multivariate analysis showed that male sex and the distribution of IM were independent risk factors for intestinal‐type cancer. Compared with patients without IM (n = 1005), the odds ratio (OR) for patients with IM in the antrum only (n = 240) was 2.34 (95% confidence interval: 1.08–4.96), and that for patients with IM in the corpus (n = 150) was 5.84 (2.92–11.8). However, NI was related to diffuse‐type cancer. Compared with patients without NI (n = 899), the OR for patients with NI in the corpus only (n = 122) was 3.66 (1.02–12.2).

Conclusions:  The histological pattern and distribution of gastric mucosal change assessed by two biopsy specimens were related to gastric cancer.
Frequency of complications during EUS‐guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections in 148 consecutive patients
Authors: Varadarajulu Shyam , Christein John D , Wilcox Charles Mel
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of complications during endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFC), identify contributing factors, and report on management outcomes.

Methods:  All patients who underwent EUS‐guided PFC drainage over 7 years were enrolled. Indications, demographics, technical details, complications, surgical interventions, and final outcomes were prospectively recorded.

Results:  Of 148 patients who underwent EUS, PFC was located in the pancreatic body in 84 (56.8%), in the tail in 45 (30.4%), in the head in 15 (10.1%), and in the uncinate region in four patients (2.7%). Perforation was encountered at the site of transmural stenting in two patients (1.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41–4.76) with a pseudocyst in the uncinate region that was drained transgastrically. When compared to other locations, perforation was more common with PFC involving the uncinate region (0% vs 50%, P = 0.0005). Other complications included bleeding in one (0.67%, 95% CI: 0.16, 3.68), stent migration in 1 (0.67%, 95% CI: 0.16, 3.68), and infection in four patients (2.7%, 95% CI: 1.09, 6.73). Bleeding occurred in a patient with underlying acquired factor VIII inhibitors, stent migration in a patient who underwent drainage via the gastric cardia, and infection in two patients with pseudocysts and two with necrosis. While two patients who developed post‐procedural infection and one with stent migration were managed endoscopically, both perforations required surgery. Surgical debridement was performed in two patients who developed infection with successful outcomes in one, and death from underlying comorbidity in the other.

Conclusions:  Complications are rare during EUS‐guided drainage of PFC and can be managed successfully in most patients.
Increase of child car seat temperature in cars parked in the outpatient parking lot
Authors: Sugimura Tetsu , Suzue Junji , Kamada Makoto , Ozaki Yukiko , Tananari Yoshifumi , Maeno Yasuki , Ito Shinichi , Nishino Hiroshi , Kakimoto Noriko , Yamakawa Rumi
Published: May 2011

Background:  A guideline for the safe use of child car seats (CS) was published by the Japan Pediatric Society in 2008. There have been few studies of the increase of temperature of a CS in parked cars. The aim of this study was to determine the change in the temperature of the CS in cars parked in full sun.

Methods:  The temperature of CS was measured during summer (July and August) in 2006, 2007, and 2008. The CS used in this study (n= 50) were for children (≤6 years old) who were taken by car to Sugimura Children's Medical Clinic. Temperatures were only measured on sunny days. Measurements were performed from 09.00 to 17.00 hours. Thermochron (Thermochron i‐Button: G type, Maxim Integrated Products, CA, USA) was used to measure the temperatures. The maximum temperatures of CS were compared in time at the clinic, taking into consideration seat colors, and car colors.

Results:  Of the 50 cars, three cars were excluded due to being in the shade while the temperature was measured. A total of 47 cars were used for this study. The temperature of the CS ranged from 38.0 to 65.5°C (47.8 ± 5.8°C). Eighteen CS (38.3%) reached a temperature of 50°C or above. The maximum temperature of the 13.00−15.00‐hours group was significantly higher than that of the 09.00−11.00‐hours group (P= 0.035). The CS temperatures in the black car group were significantly higher than those of the white car group (P= 0.013).

Conclusion:  CS may become very hot while a car is parked in sun, especially if the car and the CS are black, so the CS should be cooled before a young child is placed in it. Guardians of small children should be aware of this risk.
Prospective study of surgical outcomes and bleb morphology using indocyanine green as a surgical dye in trabeculectomy with mitomycin C
Authors: Chan Kenneth CY , Ang Ghee S , Birchall Wayne , Wong Tracey , Wakely Laura , Reeves Graham MB , Small Keith M , Wells Anthony P
Published: May 2011

Abstract

Background:  To investigate the effect of adding indocyanine green to mitomycin C in augmented trabeculectomy.

Design:  A prospective, non‐comparative interventional case series.

Participants:  A total of 37 eyes of 37 patients followed up for 1 year.

Methods:  A solution containing 12.5 mg/mL of indocyanine green was added to mitomycin C, resulting in an mitomycin C concentration of 0.2–0.4 mg/mL, which was applied to bare sclera and Tenon's capsule for 3 min during trabeculectomy.

Main Outcome Measures:  Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, bleb morphology, Moorfields Bleb Grading System scores and complications.

Results:  Indocyanine green could be visualized on clinical examination for all eyes on the first postoperative day. Mean intraocular pressure decreased from 22.9 ± 6.2 mmHg to 12.1 ± 4.4 mmHg postoperatively (P < 0.001) at 1 year. Thirty‐four eyes (91.9%) achieved an intraocular pressure of less than 21 mmHg at final visit without additional topical intraocular pressure‐lowering medications. Three eyes (8.1%) developed bleb failure andrequired Baerveldt device implantation. There were no cases of blebitis or late bleb leak. No adverse effects attributable to indocyanine green could be identified postoperatively.

Conclusion:  The addition of indocyanine green during trabeculectomy improves the visibility of antimetabolites intraoperatively and allows for the estimation of antimetabolite treatment area intraoperatively and postoperatively. It appears to have no adverse effect on surgical outcomes and complication rates, while improving safety of antimetabolite use.
Stratification of sedation risk – a challenge to the sedation continuum
Authors: Green Steven M. , Mason Keira P.
Published: May 2011

We detail the limitations of the current paradigm of the sedation continuum – a tool ubiquitous to all sedation care settings and now a quarter century old. Definitions in this existing taxonomy are based on patient responsiveness to verbal and/or tactile stimuli, and the inherent subjectivity of this focus has both challenged the reliable assessment of adverse event risk and precluded clear delineation of sedation boundaries, e.g., what is the dividing line between moderate and deep sedation? We present the rationale to support a broadening of this sedation continuum precept to include an objective mechanism to predict the ongoing risk of serious adverse events, and then propose sequential steps for the development of such a restructured framework. This process, while ambitious, would yield a clear and consistent language to facilitate quality assurance, provide an objective framework for standardized sedationist training and credentialing, and permit inclusion into computerized decision‐support algorithms to facilitate more precise sedative delivery. It is important to clearly delineate this goal now to permit design and initiation of the requisite research.
Just‐in‐time pedagogy: teachers' perspectives on the response to intervention framework
Authors: Wilcox Kathleen A. , Murakami‐Ramalho Elizabeth , Urick Angela
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this mixed methods research is to examine teachers' perspectives on the response to intervention (RTI) framework and its implementation in Michigan and Texas schools. Both states have been leaders in literacy, increasing preservice and in‐service teacher certification standards and developing similar batteries for assessing literacy skills. Using the International Reading Association's RTI principles, the following question directed this inquiry: what are the perspectives of teachers in various educational, geographic, economic and cultural settings of the RTI? The research was developed through questionnaires, focus groups and semi‐structured interviews. Findings revealed that teacher professional development, assessments and collaboration for instruction were highly integrated themes when developing RTI strategies as reforming practice and increasing student literacy. Michigan and Texas teachers were more confident and comfortable in measuring and identifying students with reading difficulties over their ability to prevent learning disabilities through their instruction.
Point and period prevalences of eczema in rural and urban schoolchildren in Ghana, Gabon and Rwanda
Authors: Hogewoning A.A. , Bouwes Bavinck J.N. , Amoah A.S. , Boakye D.A. , Yazdanbakhsh M. , Kremsner P.G. , Adegnika A.A. , De Smedt S.K.A.D. , Willemze R. , Lavrijsen A.P.M.
Published: May 2011

Background  Eczema is a growing problem in Africa, particularly amongst children.

Objectives  To investigate the point‐prevalences of eczema by physical examination in schoolchildren living in rural and urban areas and with different socioeconomic backgrounds in Ghana, Gabon and Rwanda. In Ghana period‐prevalences were also estimated by questionnaire and compared with the point‐prevalences.

Methods  In total, 4839 schoolchildren in Ghana, Gabon and Rwanda were seen by at least one dermatologist. The point‐prevalences of eczema were estimated on the basis of physical examination. Period‐prevalences were measured in Ghana with questionnaire based‐interviews adapted from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC).

Results  The point‐prevalences were 1.5% and 1.6% in the two Ghanaian studies; 4% in Gabon and 0.8% in Rwanda. The period‐prevalences were 2.6% and 4.4% in the two Ghanaian studies. The prevalences of eczema were not significantly different when comparing the urban and rural groups as well as the different socioeconomic levels. The sensitivity and positive predictive value to identify eczema cases based on the questionnaires compared to the diagnoses by physical examination were only 33% and 22% in the first Ghanaian study and 10% and 4% in the second Ghanaian study respectively.

Conclusions  The point‐prevalences of eczema in the three African countries studied were low compared with industrialized countries. Physical examination by a dermatologist is still the gold standard to identify eczema cases because the sensitivity and the positive predictive value to identify eczema cases with questionnaires were low in the two Ghanaian studies.
Amyloid‐β peptide(1‐40) elimination from cerebrospinal fluid involves low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 1 at the blood‐cerebrospinal fluid barrier
Authors: Fujiyoshi Masachika , Tachikawa Masanori , Ohtsuki Sumio , Ito Shingo , Uchida Yasuo , Akanuma Shin‐ichi , Kamiie Junichi , Hashimoto Tadafumi , Hosoya Ken‐ichi , Iwatsubo Takeshi , Terasaki Tetsuya
Published: May 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 118, 407–415.

Amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ) concentration in CSF is potentially a diagnostic and therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The purpose of this study was to clarify the elimination mechanism of human Aβ(1‐40) [hAβ (1‐40)] from CSF. After intracerebroventricular (ICV) administration, [125I]hAβ(1‐40) was eliminated from the rat CSF with a half‐life of 17.3 min. The elimination of [125I]hAβ(1‐40) was significantly inhibited by human receptor‐associated protein (RAP) and the elimination was attenuated in either anti‐low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein (LRP)1 antibody‐treated or RAP‐deficient mice, suggesting that a member(s) of the low‐density lipoprotein receptor gene family is involved in the elimination of hAβ(1‐40) from CSF. The amounts of LRP1 and LRP2 proteins were determined by means of liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry, and the LRP1 content in rat choroid plexus was determined to be 3.7 fmol/μg protein, whereas the LRP2 content was below the detection limit (< 0.2 fmol/μg protein). Conditionally, immortalized rat choroid plexus epithelial cells exhibited predominant apical‐to‐basal and apical‐to‐cell transport of [125I]hAβ(1‐40). These results indicated that hAβ(1‐40) is actively eliminated from CSF and this process is at least partly mediated by LRP1 expressed at choroid plexus epithelial cells, which therefore play a role in determining CSF concentrations of hAβ(1‐40).
Treatment Outcomes of Chronic Post‐Traumatic Headaches After Mild Head Trauma in US Soldiers: An Observational Study
Authors: Erickson Jay C.
Published: May 2011

(Headache 2011;51:932‐944)

Background.— The effectiveness of medical therapies for chronic post‐traumatic headaches (PTHs) attributable to mild head trauma in military troops has not been established.

Objective.— To determine the treatment outcomes of acute and prophylactic medical therapies prescribed for chronic PTHs after mild head trauma in US Army soldiers.

Methods.— A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 100 soldiers undergoing treatment for chronic PTH at a single US Army neurology clinic. Headache frequency and Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) scores were determined at the initial clinic visit and then again by phone 3 months after starting headache prophylactic medication. Response rates of headache abortive medications were also determined. Treatment outcomes were compared between subjects with blast‐related PTH and non‐blast PTH.

Results.— Ninety‐nine of 100 subjects were male. Seventy‐seven of 100 subjects had blast PTH and 23/100 subjects had non‐blast PTH. Headache characteristics were similar for blast PTH and non‐blast PTH with 96% and 95%, respectively, resembling migraine. Headache frequency among all PTH subjects decreased from 17.1 days/month at baseline to 14.5 days/month at follow‐up (P = .009). Headache frequency decreased by 41% among non‐blast PTH compared to 9% among blast PTH. Fifty‐seven percent of non‐blast PTH subjects had a 50% or greater decline in headache frequency compared to 29% of blast PTH subjects (P = .023). A significant decline in headache frequency occurred in subjects treated with topiramate (n = 29, −23%, P = .02) but not among those treated with a low‐dose tricyclic antidepressant (n = 48, −12%, P = .23). Seventy percent of PTH subjects who used a triptan class medication experienced reliable headache relief within 2 hours compared to 42% of subjects using other headache abortive medications (P = .01). Triptan medications were effective for both blast PTH and non‐blast PTH (66% response rate vs 86% response rate, respectively; P = .20). Headache‐related disability, as measured by mean MIDAS scores, declined by 57% among all PTH subjects with no significant difference between blast PTH (−56%) and non‐blast PTH (−61%).

Conclusions.— Triptan class medications are usually effective for aborting headaches in military troops with chronic PTH attributed to a concussion from a blast injury or non‐blast injury. Topiramate appears to be an effective headache prophylactic therapy in military troops with chronic PTH, whereas low doses of tricyclic antidepressants appear to have little efficacy. Chronic PTH triggered by a blast injury may be less responsive to commonly prescribed headache prophylactic medications compared to non‐blast PTH. These conclusions require validation by prospective, controlled clinical trials.
Multi‐Center Comparison of Response to a Single Tablet of Sumatriptan 85 mg and Naproxen 500 mg vs Usual Therapy Treating Multiple Migraine Attacks as Measured by the Completeness of Response Survey
Authors: Cady Roger , Banks Jim , Nett Robert B. , Goldstein Jerome , Bennett Nathan , Turner Ira M. , Ruoff Gary E. , Landy Stephen H. , Farmer Kathleen , Juhász Márta , Tarrasch Jeanne , Runken M. Chris
Published: May 2011

(Headache 2011;51:961‐970)

Objective.— To investigate a broad definition of migraine resolution that extends beyond specific migraine‐associated diagnostic symptoms as measured by the Completeness of Response Survey.

Methods.— Conducted at 8 sites, 135 subjects treated migraines with SumaRT/Nap over 2 months. To measure subjects' experiences with SumaRT/Nap compared to their usual migraine medication, the Headache Impact Test, Revised Patient Perception of Migraine Questionnaire, and Completeness of Response Survey were administered at baseline and at 2 months.

Results.— The effects of the study medicine compared to the subjects' usual migraine medicine reached statistical significance in decreasing headache severity, lessening of associated symptoms, and attaining complete relief with a single dose (60.04% of attacks resolved at 2 hours post‐treatment).

Conclusion.— Compared to a subject's usual treatment, SumaRT/Nap used early and consistently for treatment of acute migraine offers important clinical improvements, including lessening of associated symptoms beyond International Headache Society criteria.
Structure‐Based Design, Synthesis, and Antifungal Activity of New Triazole Derivatives
Authors: Sheng Chunquan , Che Xiaoying , Wang Wenya , Wang Shengzheng , Cao Yongbing , Yao Jianzhong , Miao Zhenyuan , Zhang Wannian
Published: May 2011

A series of new antifungal triazole derivatives with phenylacetamide side chain were rational designed and synthesized on the basis of the structural information of lanosterol 14‐demethylase (CYP51). In vitro antifungal activity assay indicated that several compounds showed higher activity than fluconazole. Especially, compound 8h showed excellent inhibitory activity against Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans (MIC = 0.0156 μg/mL), suggesting that it is a promising lead for the development of novel antifungal agents. The binding mode of compound 8h was investigated by flexible molecular docking. It interacted with CACYP51 through hydrophobic and van der Waals interactions.
Right‐sided laryngeal hemiplegia and Horner's syndrome in a horse
Authors: Palumbo M. I. P. , Moreira J. J. , Olivo G. , Neto C. R. , Pyles M. D. , Watanabe M. J. , Borges A. S.
Published: May 2011

This study describes right laryngeal hemiplegia (LH) and right‐sided Horner's syndrome (HS) in a horse. The average temperature of the face was 3.5°C higher on the right compared with the left side, as determined by thermographic imaging. The syndrome occurred following an episode of right mid‐cervical cellulitis due to inadvertent perijugular deposition of gentamicin.
Arthroscopically‐assisted removal of an osteochondral fragment from the equine elbow using a caudo‐medial approach
Authors: Bobkiewicz J. J. , Hodgson S. E.
Published: May 2011

An 8‐year‐old Polo pony mare was admitted for investigation of lameness related to swelling of the elbow. An intra‐articular fragment from the proximo‐medial radius was identified on radiographic examination. The fragment was removed arthroscopically under general anaesthesia via a caudo‐medial approach to the elbow joint.
A review of equine paranasal sinusitis: Medical and surgical treatments
Authors: Dixon P. M. , O'Leary J. M.
Published: May 2011

Treatment of the different types of equine sinusitis, in particular those of chronic (>2 months' duration) sinusitis can be difficult, with many such cases not responding to more conservative measures such as rest, antibiotic therapy or sinus lavage. Such refractory cases require further clinical examinations and imaging as outlined in a companion article to achieve confirmation of the cause of the sinusitis. Many sinusitis cases will then require some form of surgical treatment that may include sinusotomy, dental extraction or intrasinus growth removal, that are increasingly being performed by less invasive techniques under standing sedation.
Effect of Geometry, Material, and Pressure Variability on Strain and Stress Fields in Dented Pipelines Under Static and Cyclic Pressure Loading Using Probabilistic Analysis
Authors: Al-Muslim Husain M. , Arif Abul Fazal M.
Published: May 2011

Mechanical damage in transportation pipelines is a threat to their structural integrity. Failure in oil and gas pipelines is catastrophic as it leads to personal fatalities, injuries, property damage, loss of production, and environmental pollution. Therefore, this issue is of extreme importance to pipeline operators, government and regulatory agencies, and local communities. As mechanical damage can occur during the course of pipeline life due to many reasons, appropriate tools and procedures for assessment of severity is necessary. There are many parameters that affect the severity of the mechanical damage related to the pipe geometry and material properties, the defect geometry and boundary conditions, and the pipe state of strain and stress. The main objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of geometry, material, and pressure variability on strain and stress fields in dented pipelines under static and cyclic pressure loading using probabilistic analysis. Most of the published literature focuses on the strain at the maximum depth for evaluation, which is not always sufficient to evaluate the severity of a certain case. The validation and calibration of the base deterministic model was based on full-instrumented full-scale tests conducted by Pipeline Research Council International as part of their active program to fully characterize mechanical damage. A total of 100 cases randomly generated using Monte Carlo simulation are analyzed in the probabilistic model. The statistical distribution of output parameters and correlation between output and input variables is presented. Moreover, regression analysis is conducted to derive mathematical formulas of the output variables in terms of practically measured variables. The results can be used directly into strain based assessment. Moreover, they can be coupled with fracture mechanics to assess cracks for which the state of stress must be known in the location of crack tip, not necessarily found in the dent peak. Furthermore, probabilities derived from the statistical distribution can be used in risk assessment.
Conceptual Structure Design of High Temperature Isolation Valve for High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor
Authors: Takada Shoji , Abe Kenji , Inagaki Yoshiyuki
Published: May 2011

The high temperature isolation valve (HTIV) is a key component to assure the safety of a high temperature gas cooled reactor connected with a hydrogen production system for protections of radioactive material release from the reactor to the hydrogen production system as well as of combustible gas ingress to the reactor at the accident of fracture of an intermediate heat exchanger and the chemical reactor. However, the HTIV has not been made for practical use in the helium condition over 900°C yet. The conceptual structure design of an angle type HTIV was carried out. A seat made of Hasteloy-XR is welded inside a valve box. Internal thermal insulation is employed around the seat and a liner because the high temperature helium gas flows inside the valve. The inner diameter of the top of seat was set 445 mm based on fabrication experiences of valve makers. A draft overall structure was proposed based on the diameter of the seat. The numerical analysis was carried out to estimate the temperature distribution and stress of metallic components by using a three-dimensional finite element method code. Numerical results showed that the temperature of the seat was simply decreased from the top around 900°C to the root, and the thermal stress locally increased at the root of the seat, which was connected with the valve box. The stress was lowered below the allowable limit 120 MPa by decreasing the thickness of the connecting part and increasing the temperature of the valve box to around 350°C. The stress also increased at the top of the seat. Creep analysis revealed that the intactness of the HTIV is kept after the assumed operation cycles of the plant life as well as at the depressurization accident.
Approximate Nonlinear Modeling and Feedback Linearization Control for Aeroengines
Authors: Zhao Hui , Liu Jinfu , Yu Daren
Published: May 2011

This paper aims to develop an applicable nonlinear control technique for aeroengines. An approximate nonlinear model is presented and a rational identification procedure is given. Exact input-output feedback linearization can be easily performed on this model. The controller derived can approximately linearize the plant such that the close-loop system exhibits linear input-output dynamics locally. Modeling and controlling are exemplified and validated by a small turbofan engine. Simulation results illustrate that the modeling accuracy is good and linear close-loop system dynamics are achieved.