bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapted version of constraint-induced movement therapy promotes functioning in children with cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: de Brito Brandão Marina , Mancini Marisa Cotta , Vaz Daniela Virgínia , Pereira de Melo Ana Paula , Fonseca Sérgio Teixeira
Published: June 2010

Objective: To evaluate the effects of constraint-induced movement therapy on the use of the affected arm and on daily functioning in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.

Design: A single-blinded randomized clinical trial.

Subjects: Sixteen children with cerebral palsy randomized to intervention (n = 8, 4 males, 4 females, mean age 5 years and 6 months) and control groups (n = 8, 4 males, 4 females, mean age 6 years and 7 months).

Interventions: Non-affected arm of intervention group was restricted for 10 hours/ day and the affected arm intensively trained for 3 hours/day for two weeks. The intervention protocol included one week of bimanual functional training following constraint therapy. The control group maintained usual rehabilitation throughout the intervention period.

Main measures: Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (self-care domain) and an adapted version of the Jebsen—Taylor test were administered before and after intervention, and at one month follow-up. General linear models tested differences in gain scores and the number needed to treat estimated relative effectiveness of intervention protocol for functional skills and independence in self-care.

Results: Results are reported for 15 children who completed assessments and intervention. Higher gains were observed in the intervention group for functional skills and independence post intervention (dfunctional skills = 1.61, P =0.0134; dindependence=1.37; P =0.0001) and follow-up (dfunctional skills = 2.08, P =0.004; dindependence = 0.85; P =0.0016). No group difference in manual dexterity gains was observed. Low indices of number needed to treat (1.75 and 2.33) illustrate clinical relevance of intervention.

Conclusions: The protocol associating constraint-induced movement therapy and bimanual functional training was effective in promoting daily living functioning among children with cerebral palsy.
Hypothermia during migraine attacks
Authors: Porta-Etessam Jesús , Cuadrado María L , Rodríguez-Gómez Octavio , Valencia Cristina , García-Ptacek Sara
Published: June 2010

Episodic spontaneous hypothermia is an infrequent disorder. Here, the case of a patient with migraine who experienced hypothermia during her migraine attacks is presented. The authors propose that larger clinical series should be studied to evaluate the occurrence of hypothermia in migraine, as well as the possible influence of some preventive regimens in this setting.
The Effect of Medial Versus Lateral Meniscectomy on the Stability of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament-Deficient Knee
Authors: Musahl Volker , Citak Musa , O’Loughlin Padhraig F. , Choi Daniel , Bedi Asheesh , Pearle Andrew D.
Published: June 2010

Background: The pivot shift is a dynamic test of knee stability that involves a pathologic, multiplanar motion path elicited by a combination of axial load and valgus force during a knee flexion from an extended position.

Purpose: To assess the stabilizing effect of the medial and lateral meniscus on anterior cruciate ligament-deficient (ACL-D) knees during the pivot shift examination.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: A Lachman and a mechanized pivot shift test were performed on 16 fresh-frozen cadaveric hip-to-toe lower extremity specimens. The knee was tested intact, ACL-D, and after sectioning the medial meniscus (ACL/MM-D; n = 8), lateral meniscus (ACL/LM-D; n = 8), and both (ACL/LM/MM-D; n = 16). A navigation system recorded the resultant anterior tibial translations (ATTs). For statistical analysis an analysis of variance was used; significance was set at P < .05.

Results: The ATT significantly increased in the ACL-D knee after lateral meniscectomy (ACL/LM-D; P < .05) during the pivot shift maneuver. In the lateral compartment of the knee, ATT in the ACL-D knee increased by 6 mm after lateral meniscectomy during the pivot shift (16.6 ± 6.0 vs 10.5 ± 3.5 mm, P < .01 for ACL/LM out vs ACL out). Medial meniscectomy, conversely, had no significant effect on ATT in the ACL-D knee during pivot shift examination ( P > .05). With standardized Lachman examination, however, ATT significantly increased after medial but not lateral meniscectomy compared with the ACL-D knee ( P < .001).

Conclusion: Although the medial meniscus functions as a critical secondary stabilizer to anteriorly directed forces on the tibia during a Lachman examination, the lateral meniscus appears to be a more important restraint to anterior tibial translation during combined valgus and rotatory loads applied during a pivoting maneuver.

Clinical Relevance: This model may have implications in the evaluation of surgical reconstruction procedures in complex knee injuries.
Effects of Prasterone (dehydroepiandrosterone) on markers of cardiovascular risk and bone turnover in premenopausal women with systemic lupus erythematosus: a pilot study
Authors: Marder W. , Somers EC , Kaplan MJ , Anderson MR , Lewis EE , McCune WJ
Published: June 2010

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a weak androgen with proposed efficacy in the treatment of mild to moderate lupus, and possible beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk and bone mineral density. We hypothesized that treatment with 200 mg a day of Prasterone (DHEA) would improve pre-clinical measures of atherosclerosis: flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), nitroglycerin-mediated dilatation (NMD), and circulating apoptotic endothelial cells (CD 146AnnV +), as well markers of bone metabolism. Thirteen premenopausal female patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) ≤8 were enrolled in a double-blind placebo-controlled crossover trial for 22 weeks with a 6-week washout between treatment periods. Results reveal high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels significantly decreased with Prasterone (48.5 versus 56.3 with placebo, p ≤ 0.001), and there was a trend towards impairment of endothelial function with Prasterone (brachial artery FMD 3.4% versus 4.4% with placebo, mean difference -1.07, NMD 19.5% versus 24.4% with placebo, mean difference -4.9, p = NS). There were no differences between groups in SLEDAI, CD146 AnnV+ cells, or receptor activator for nuclear factor kB ligand (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin, although RANKL was higher after treatment with Prasterone (mean difference -29.5 units; p = 0.097). This pilot study does not support the use of Prasterone in mild lupus for prevention of atherosclerosis or osteoporosis, and confirms other findings of potentially harmful effects on lipids.
Financial Sector Reforms in Indonesia and South Korea in 1980s and Early 1990s
Authors: Akimov Alexandr , Dollery Brian
Published: June 2010

This article examines financial liberalisation in Indonesia and South Korea during the 1980s and the early 1990s. It provides a brief discussion of the pre-reform political and economic environment in the two countries, followed by a description of the state of the pre-reform financial sectors in both the countries. The article then focuses on the respective financial development policies and their pace, sequencing and outcomes in the two nations. The socio-economic impact of financial sector reforms is also carefully considered. The article concludes by summarising its main findings and drawing out some major policy implications.
Shifting Motivations: Young Women’s Reflections on Physical Activity Over Time and Across Contexts
Authors: O'Dougherty Maureen , Kurzer Mindy S. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: June 2010

This research analyzes motivations expressed by young, healthy, sedentary women before and after an exercise intervention. Young women (aged 18-30, n = 39) participated in focus groups or interviews during a 4-month exercise intervention. Afterward, 22 of these women and 20 controls completed physical activity diaries for 6 months and were interviewed. For the majority of women ( n = 24), obligation to the study prevailed as the motivator during the intervention. Some ( n = 15) became physically active for their own benefit. Afterward, exercisers and controls said they were physically active to feel better and/or healthy ( n = 20), for body image and/ or weight loss ( n = 20), or both. Women expressed motivations for physical activity in ways that resonated with self-determination theory. Their commentaries expand on theory to include experiencing multiple motivations simultaneously and motivations shifting over time and in differing contexts. Social motivations were compelling, both those associated with societal values (research, health) and cultural trends (body image).
Development of a Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Intervention for Vietnamese American Women
Authors: Nguyen Anh B. , Belgrave Faye Z. , Sholley Barbara K.
Published: June 2010

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a collaborative partnership approach to research that combines the efforts of researchers and stakeholders. CBPR can effectively be used to target local community populations in increasing knowledge and improving behaviors in cancer prevention as participants have a voice and active role in the research process. This article describes how CBPR was used in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a pilot intervention for breast and cervical cancer screening among a Vietnamese female population. The authors outline the use of CBPR in three phases: (a) the identification of preventive health topics important in the local Vietnamese community, (b) the development and administration of a survey to gain a deeper understanding of barriers to breast and cancer screening among Vietnamese women, and (c) the development of a culturally appropriate pilot intervention to promote cancer screening behavior among a local Vietnamese population. In Study 1, it was found that Vietnamese women experienced disparities in breast and cervical cancer screening. In Study 2, it was found that having health insurance and a regular physician were predictive of breast and cervical cancer screening. It was also found that participants had low levels of acculturation and lacked cancer screening knowledge. In Study 3, it was found that the culturally relevant intervention used in this study improved cancer screening–related outcomes in knowledge, self-efficacy, intention, and behavior.
Milnacipran: a selective serotonin and norepinephrine dual reuptake inhibitor for the management of fibromyalgia
Authors: Palmer Robert H. , Periclou Antonia , Banerjee Pradeep
Published: June 2010

Milnacipran, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor with preferential inhibition of norepinephrine reuptake over serotonin, is approved in the United States for the management of fibromyalgia. Owing to its effects on norepinephrine and serotonin, as well as its lack of activity at other receptor systems, it was hypothesized that milnacipran would provide improvements in pain and other fibromyalgia symptoms without some of the unpleasant side effects associated with other medications historically used for treating fibromyalgia. The clinical safety and efficacy of milnacipran 100 and 200 mg/day in individuals with fibromyalgia has been investigated in four large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies and three long-term extension studies. The clinical studies used composite responder analyses to identify the proportion of individual patients reporting simultaneous and clinically significant improvements in pain, global status, and physical function, in addition to assessing improvement in various symptom domains such as fatigue and dyscognition. In the clinical studies, patients receiving milnacipran reported significant improvements in pain and other symptoms for up to 15 months of treatment. Most adverse events were mild to moderate in severity and were related to the intrinsic pharmacologic properties of the drug. Long-term exposure to milnacipran did not result in any new safety concerns. As with other serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, increases in heart rate and blood pressure have been observed in some patients with milnacipran treatment.
Specificity of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Microspectroscopy to Estimate Depth-Wise Proteoglycan Content in Normal and Osteoarthritic Human Articular Cartilage
Authors: Saarakkala Simo , Julkunen Petro
Published: June 2010

Background:

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy is a promising method for estimating the depth-wise composition of articular cartilage. The aim was to compare the specificity of two earlier introduced, presumably proteoglycan (PG)–specific FTIR parameters (i.e., absorption in the carbohydrate region with and without normalization with Amide I absorption) to estimate the reference PG content of normal and osteoarthritic human articular cartilage. This study is a direct continuation of our earlier studies, from which the presented data are reanalyzed.

Design:

Earlier, FTIR microspectroscopy, digital densitometry, histological analyses, and polarized light microscopy were conducted in vitro for articular cartilage samples of human patellae ( n = 72). In the present study, earlier data were combined and statistically reanalyzed in a depth-wise manner to clarify the specificity of FTIR parameters introduced for the estimation of PG content of articular cartilage. Digital densitometry for Safranin O-stained samples was used to indicate reference PG content.

Results:

Direct absorption of the carbohydrate region estimated well the PG content in the middle and deep zones of articular cartilage and appeared to be superior compared to carbohydrate values normalized with Amide I absorption. However, in the superficial zone, the specificity of both FTIR-derived PG parameters was limited.

Conclusions:

Limitations of current FTIR-based PG parameters in the superficial zone of articular cartilage should be recognized and carefully taken into account in future studies using FTIR microspectroscopy for PG content estimation. Further research is needed to improve the specificity of FTIR parameters for the estimation of PG content of articular cartilage.
Phase identification of hard precipitates in PS304 coatings
Authors: Ari-Gur P , Sariel J , Stanford M K , DellaCorte C , Abel P B
Published: June 2010

This paper presents the details of the detection of an unexpected (enigmatic) phase resulting from heat treatment of a tribocoating labelled PS304. This coating, consisting of chromium oxide powder in a Ni–Cr base powder and lubricated by silver metal and fluorides of barium and calcium, provides a plasma sprayed lubricious multitemperature wear and oxidation resistant surface layer for challenging wear applications. Primarily based on X-ray diffraction structural analysis, a chromium disilicide compound has been identified to form as a result of the heat treatment of the coating. A source of the significant strengthening of the coating by the heat treatment process is explained on the basis of the formation of the disilicide compound and its properties. The strengthening effect of fugitive silicon present in such trace levels is recognised for the first time as having a potential for use in many tribocoating systems as a cost effective and efficient strengthening approach.
Induction of a CD8+ T-cell response to the MAGE cancer testis antigen by combined treatment with azacitidine and sodium valproate in patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplasia
Authors: Goodyear Oliver , Agathanggelou Angelo , Novitzky-Basso Igor , Siddique Shamyla , McSkeane Tina , Ryan Gordon , Vyas Paresh , Cavenagh Jamie , Stankovic Tanja , Moss Paul , Craddock Charles
Published: June 2010

Epigenetic therapies, including DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors, represent important new treatment modalities in hematologic malignancies, but their mechanism of action remains unknown. We reasoned that up-regulation of epigenetically silenced tumor antigens may induce an immunologically mediated antitumor response and contribute to their clinical activity. In this study, we demonstrate that azacitidine (AZA) and sodium valproate (VPA) up-regulate expression of melanoma-associated antigens (MAGE antigens) on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myeloma cell lines. In separate studies, we observed that prior exposure to AZA/VPA increased recognition of myeloma cell lines by a MAGE-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) clone. We therefore measured CTL responses to MAGE antigens in 21 patients with AML or myelodysplasia treated with AZA/VPA. CTL responses to MAGE antigens were documented in only 1 patient before therapy; however, treatment with AZA/VPA induced a CTL response in 10 patients. Eight of the 11 patients with circulating MAGE CTLs achieved a major clinical response after AZA/VPA therapy. This is the first demonstration of a MAGE-specific CTL response in AML. Furthermore, it appears that epigenetic therapies have the capacity to induce a CTL response to MAGE antigens in vivo that may contribute to their clinical activity in AML. This study was registered at http://isrctn.org as #ISCTN68418952.
Nuclear Factor (NF) κB polymorphism is associated with heart function in patients with heart failure
Authors: Santos Diogo GB , Resende Marina F , Mill José G , Mansur Alfredo J , Krieger José E , Pereira Alexandre C
Published: June 2010

Background

Cardiac remodeling is generally an adverse sign and is associated with heart failure (HF) progression. NFkB, an important transcription factor involved in many cell survival pathways, has been implicated in the remodeling process, but its role in the heart is still controversial. Recently, a promoter polymorphism associated with a lesser activation of the NFKB1 gene was also associated with Dilated Cardiomyopathy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of this polymorphism with clinical and functional characteristics of heart failure patients of different etiologies.

Methods

A total of 493 patients with HF and 916 individuals from a cohort of individuals from the general population were investigated. The NFKB1 -94 insertion/deletion ATTG polymorphism was genotyped by High Resolution Melt discrimination. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared between groups. In addition, frequencies or mean values of different phenotypes associated with cardiovascular disease were compared between genotype groups. Finally, patients were prospectively followed-up for death incidence and genotypes for the polymorphism were compared regarding disease onset and mortality incidence in HF patients.

Results

We did not find differences in genotype and allelic frequencies between cases and controls. Interestingly, we found an association between the ATTG1/ATTG1 genotype with right ventricle diameter (P = 0.001), left ventricle diastolic diameter (P = 0.04), and ejection fraction (EF) (P = 0.016), being the genotype ATTG1/ATTG1 more frequent in patients with EF lower than 50% (P = 0.01). Finally, we observed a significantly earlier disease onset in ATTG1/ATTG1 carriers.

Conclusion

There is no genotype or allelic association between the studied polymorphism and the occurrence of HF in the tested population. However, our data suggest that a diminished activation of NFKB1, previously associated with the ATTG1/ATTG1 genotype, may act modulating on the onset of disease and, once the individual has HF, the genotype may modulate disease severity by increasing cardiac remodeling and function deterioration.
Determinants of hospitalization for a cutaneous injection-related infection among injection drug users: a cohort study
Authors: Lloyd-Smith Elisa , Wood Evan , Zhang Ruth , Tyndall Mark W , Sheps Sam , Montaner Julio SG , Kerr Thomas
Published: June 2010

Astract

Background

Cutaneous injection-related infections (CIRI) are a primary reason individuals who inject drugs (IDU) are hospitalized. The objective of this study was to investigate determinants of hospitalization for a CIRI or related infectious complication among a cohort of supervised injection facility (SIF) users.

Methods

From 1 January 1 2004 until 31 January 2008, using Cox proportional hazard regression, we examined determinants of hospitalization for a CIRI or related infectious complication (based on ICD 10 codes) among 1083 IDU recruited from within the SIF. Length of stay in hospital and cost estimates, based on a fully-allocated costing model, was also evaluated.

Results

Among hospital admissions, 49% were due to a CIRI or related infectious complication. The incidence density for hospitalization for a CIRI or related infectious complication was 6.07 per 100 person-years (95% confidence intervals [CI]: 4.96 - 7.36). In the adjusted Cox proportional hazard model, being HIV positive (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.79 [95% CI: 1.17 - 2.76]) and being referred to the hospital by a nurse at the SIF (AHR = 5.49 [95% CI: 3.48 - 8.67]) were associated with increased hospitalization. Length of stay in hospital was significantly shorter among participants referred to the hospital by a nurse at the SIF when compared to those who were not referred (4 days [interquartile range {IQR}: 2-7] versus 12 days [IQR: 5-33]) even after adjustment for confounders (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

A strong predictor of hospitalization for a CIRI or related infectious complication was being referred to the hospital by a nurse from the SIF. This finding indicates that nurses not only facilitate hospital utilization but may provide early intervention that prevents lengthy and expensive hospital visits for a CIRI or related infectious complication.
Changes in glycemic control from 1996 to 2006 among adults with type 2 diabetes: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Blumenthal Karen J , Larkin Mary E , Winning Gail , Nathan David M , Grant Richard W
Published: June 2010

Background

Our objectives were to examine temporal changes in HbA1c and lipid levels over a 10-year period and to identify predictors of metabolic control in a longitudinal patient cohort.

Methods

We identified all adults within our hospital network with T2DM who had HbA1c's measured in both 1996 and 2006 (longitudinal cohort). For patients with no data in 2006, we used hospital and social security records to distinguish patients lost to follow-up from those who died after 1996. We compared characteristics of the 3 baseline cohorts (longitudinal, lost to f/u, died) and examined metabolic trends in the longitudinal cohort.

Results

Of the 4944 patients with HbA1c measured in 1996, 1772 (36%) had an HbA1c measured in 2006, 1296 (26%) were lost to follow-up, and 1876 (38%) had died by 2006. In the longitudinal cohort, mean HbA1c decreased by 0.4 ± 1.8% over the ten-year span (from 8.2% ± 1.7% to 7.8% ± 1.4%) and mean total cholesterol decreased by 49.3 (± 46.5) mg/dL. In a multivariate model, independent predictors of HbA1c decline included older age (OR 1.41 per decade, 95% CI: 1.3-1.6, p < 0.001), baseline HbA1c (OR 2.9 per 1% increment, 2.6 - 3.2, p < 0.001), and speaking English (OR 2.1, 1.4-3.1, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Despite having had diabetes for an additional 10 years, patients in our longitudinal cohort had better glycemic and cholesterol control in 2006 than 1996. Greatest improvements occurred in patients with the highest levels in the baseline year.
Proteomic analysis of purified coronavirus infectious bronchitis virus particles
Authors: Kong Qingming , Xue Chunyi , Ren Xiangpeng , Zhang Chengwen , Li Linlin , Shu Dingming , Bi Yingzuo , Cao Yongchang
Published: June 2010

Background

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is the coronavirus of domestic chickens causing major economic losses to the poultry industry. Because of the complexity of the IBV life cycle and the small number of viral structural proteins, important virus-host relationships likely remain to be discovered. Toward this goal, we performed two-dimensional gel electrophoresis fractionation coupled to mass spectrometry identification approaches to perform a comprehensive proteomic analysis of purified IBV particles.

Results

Apart from the virus-encoded structural proteins, we detected 60 host proteins in the purified virions which can be grouped into several functional categories including intracellular trafficking proteins (20%), molecular chaperone (18%), macromolcular biosynthesis proteins (17%), cytoskeletal proteins (15%), signal transport proteins (15%), protein degradation (8%), chromosome associated proteins (2%), ribosomal proteins (2%), and other function proteins (3%). Interestingly, 21 of the total host proteins have not been reported to be present in virions of other virus families, such as major vault protein, TENP protein, ovalbumin, and scavenger receptor protein. Following identification of the host proteins by proteomic methods, the presence of 4 proteins in the purified IBV preparation was verified by western blotting and immunogold labeling detection.

Conclusions

The results present the first standard proteomic profile of IBV and may facilitate the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms.
Rapid metabolic profiling of Nicotiana tabacum defence responses against Phytophthora nicotianae using direct infrared laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry and principal component analysis
Authors: Ibáñez Alfredo J , Scharte Judith , Bones Philipp , Pirkl Alexander , Meldau Stefan , Baldwin Ian T , Hillenkamp Franz , Weis Engelbert , Dreisewerd Klaus
Published: June 2010

Background

Successful defence of tobacco plants against attack from the oomycete Phytophthora nicotianae includes a type of local programmed cell death called the hypersensitive response. Complex and not completely understood signaling processes are required to mediate the development of this defence in the infected tissue. Here, we demonstrate that different families of metabolites can be monitored in small pieces of infected, mechanically-stressed, and healthy tobacco leaves using direct infrared laser desorption ionization orthogonal time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The defence response was monitored for 1 - 9 hours post infection.

Results

Infrared laser desorption ionization orthogonal time-of-flight mass spectrometry allows rapid and simultaneous detection in both negative and positive ion mode of a wide range of naturally occurring primary and secondary metabolites. An unsupervised principal component analysis was employed to identify correlations between changes in metabolite expression (obtained at different times and sample treatment conditions) and the overall defence response.

A one-dimensional projection of the principal components 1 and 2 obtained from positive ion mode spectra was used to generate a Biological Response Index (BRI). The BRI obtained for each sample treatment was compared with the number of dead cells found in the respective tissue. The high correlation between these two values suggested that the BRI provides a rapid assessment of the plant response against the pathogen infection. Evaluation of the loading plots of the principal components (1 and 2) reveals a correlation among three metabolic cascades and the defence response generated in infected leaves. Analysis of selected phytohormones by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry verified our findings.

Conclusion

The described methodology allows for rapid assessment of infection-specific changes in the plant metabolism, in particular of phenolics, alkaloids, oxylipins, and carbohydrates. Moreover, potential novel biomarkers can be detected and used to predict the quality of plant infections.
Efficacy and adverse effects of transdermal fentanyl and sustained-release oral morphine in treating moderate-severe cancer pain in Chinese population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Qiong , Xie De-Rong , Jiang Zhi-Min , Ma Wen , Zhang Yuan-Dong , Bi Zhuo-Fei , Chen Deng-Lin
Published: June 2010

Background

Previous meta-analysis suggested that transdermal fentanyl was not inferior to sustained-release oral morphine in treating moderate-severe cancer pain with less adverse effects. Now, we updated the data and performed a systematic review.

Methods

Updated cohort studies on transdermal fentanyl and oral morphine in the treatment of cancer pain were searched in electronic databases including CBMdisc, CNKI, VIP, Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Library. Primary end points assessed by meta-analysis were remission rate of pain and incidence of adverse effects. Quality of life was assessed by systematic review, which was the second end point.

Results

32 cohort studies, which included 2651 patients, were included in present study. The remission rate in transdermal fentanyl group and sustained-release oral morphine group were 86.60% and 88.31% respectively, there was no significant difference [RR = 1.13, 95% CI (0.92, 1.38), P = 0.23]. Compared with oral morphine group, there were less adverse effects in terms of constipation [RR = 0.35, 95% CI (0.27, 0.45), P < 0.00001], nausea/vomiting [RR = 0.57, 95% CI (0.49, 0.67), P < 0.00001], and vertigo/somnolence [RR = 0.59, 95% CI (0.51, 0.68), P < 0.00001] in transdermal fentanyl group. Six of selected trials supported either transdermal fentanyl or sustained-release oral morphine improved QOL of cancer patients and one of them showed more patients got better QOL after sustained-release oral morphine transferred to transdermal fentanyl.

Conclusions

Our study showed again that both transdermal fentanyl and oral morphine had the same efficacy in the treatment of moderate-severe cancer pain in Chinese population, but the former might have less adverse effects and better quality of life.
Optimizations of turboprop engines using the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm
Authors: Boulkeraa T , Ghenaiet A
Published: June 2010

This article presents a Pareto approach to design for the optimal performance of four configurations of turboprop engines matching the power requirements of a class of propeller-driven aircrafts. In these bi-objective optimizations of the thermal cycle parameters, the power-specific fuel consumption is minimized and the specific power is maximized while maintaining the power levels and limiting the temperature of the power turbine blades. For this purpose, a multi-objective evolutionary optimization algorithm called non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is used. To avoid engine performance deterioration and constraint violation at extreme operating conditions, the objective functions and constraints are evaluated at both design and off-design conditions. The trade-off surfaces representing the sets of alternative solutions are obtained based on the Pareto optimality. By considering additional subjective criteria, three design points are proposed for each engine configuration.
Optimizing surface texture for hydrodynamic lubricated contacts using a mass-conserving numerical approach
Authors: Dobrica M B , Fillon M , Pascovici M D , Cicone T
Published: June 2010

Surface texturing has been shown to reduce friction and increase the film thickness in various tribological applications (hydrodynamic bearings, mechanical seals, and cylinder—liner contacts). However, only few studies discuss optimal texturing properties, and most of them focus on the optimal dimple shape. This article proposes an in-depth study on the influence of cavitation and of different texturing parameters, especially the dimple depth, the texture extent, and the dimple aspect, on the hydrodynamic performance of textured contacts. The results are derived numerically, for contacts between plane surfaces that are parallel or inclined with respect to each other. The performance gains (film thickness and friction force) obtained by texturing are evaluated with respect to the performance of smooth contacts. Most notable findings are the optimal extent of the textured region (partial texturing and trapezoidal shape) and the optimal dimple aspect (longitudinal). Cavitation is shown to have a significant influence on the performance of near-parallel textured contacts, although it does not appear to contribute to the generated hydrodynamic lift. It is equally shown that the dimple arrangement with respect to the leading edge is a determining factor for the performance of near-parallel textured sliders.
Friction characteristics of a phosphorous-containing steel surface derived from ion implantation
Authors: Aoki S , Teranishi Y , Mitsuo A , Kawaguchi M , Morikawa K , Suzuki A , Masuko M
Published: June 2010

Phosphorous (P) ion implantation was performed on a steel substrate to investigate the effect of the P implantation on the friction characteristics of steel lubricated with oil. To determine the characteristics of the P-implanted layer, several kinds of surface analyses were carried out, resulting in a correlation between the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profile and the thickness from spectroscopic ellipsometer. A three balls-on-disc tribometer was employed with sliding speeds ranging from 3 mm/s to 40 cm/s. The friction coefficient of the P-implanted steel was relatively lower at speeds below 10−1 m/s, compared with the unimplanted steel. This could account for both the sacrificing nature and the adhesion behaviour of the P-implanted layer.
Numerical solutions for the elastic deformation of spherical bearing surfaces of metal-on-metalhip joint implants
Authors: Gao L M , Meng Q E , Wang F C , Yang P R , Jin Z M
Published: June 2010

On the elastohydrodynamic lubrication analysis, one of the most time-consuming issues is the calculation of surface deformation. Two methods are usually adopted to fasten the calculation: the multi-level multi-integration (MLMI) and the fast Fourier transform (FFT). However, in spherical models such as for hip joint replacements, the finite-element method has to be employed instead of analytical formulations to determine the influence coefficients. It limits the coarsest grid to 60 × 60 points to ensure numerical accuracy. This limitation prevents the MLMI to achieve high performance. Therefore, a combined MLMI and FFT method is proposed. The basic idea is to replace the direct summation on the coarse grids in the MLMI by the FFT algorithm.

The combined method is validated by comparing to the individual MLMI and FFT. The combined method is found to perform fastest. In solving a quasi-static elastohydrodynamic lubrication solution, approximately 65 per cent less CPU time is required on grid 512 × 512, and the accuracy is not affected.

For the usual semi-infinite plane models, sometimes a large number of levels can cause a lot of additional operations and storage space when translating data between the levels. The combined MLMI and FFT method can be an alternative way to choose the coarse grid more flexibly, reduce the number of grid levels, and optimize the computing performance.
A study of the elastic—plastic deformation of heavily deformed spherical contacts
Authors: Wadwalkar S S , Jackson R L , Kogut L
Published: June 2010

This work uses a finite-element analysis and analytical equations to model elastic—plastic large deformations of spheres in contact with rigid flat surfaces. No strain hardening in the sphere or friction between the surfaces has been considered. The case considered here is of a deformable sphere compressed by a rigid flat as opposed to the reverse case of a rigid spherical indenter penetrating a deformable surface. Most previous works only deal with elastic or elasto-plastic deformation at much smaller deformations. A model for predicting the contact area, pressure, and force is proposed based on the finite element modelling (FEM) simulations and analytical equations derived from volume conservation. The analytical volume conservation approach is similar to that used to model the barrelling of compressed cylinders. The most important aspect of the model is the resulting equation relating the average pressure to the yield strength during fully plastic deformation. The results are compared with existing models and experimental data.
Effects of surface defects on rolling contact fatigue of heavily loaded lubricated contacts
Authors: Warhadpande A , Sadeghi F
Published: June 2010

Surface-initiated fatigue caused by surface defects is one of the most dominant failure modes for bearing contacts. In this study, a damage mechanics-based Voronoi finite-element model (VFEM) is developed and used to investigate the effects of surface defects (such as dents and fretting wear) in elastohydrodynamic lubricated line contacts. A line contact elastohydrodynamic lubricated model is used to calculate the pressure distributions acting over the surface defects, which are then employed by Voronoi finite-element model to determine subsurface stresses. Continuum damage mechanics-based approach is used to incorporate cyclic damage accumulation and progressive degradation of material properties with rolling contact cycling. The model also takes into account the effects of residual stresses generated during the debris denting process. Using this methodology, the model is used to simulate microcrack initiation, coalescence, and propagation stages, finally a fatigue spall. The locations and patterns of dent-initiated spalls are found to be consistent with experimental observations. The fatigue model is used to study the effects of the topology of the material microstructure, dent sharpness, and material properties on rolling contact fatigue (RCF) life and Weibull slopes.
Dynamic behaviours of the rotor non-linear system with fixed—tilting-pad journal bearings support
Authors: Lu Y J , Ji L F , Zhang Y F , Wu Y , Liu Y Y , Yu L
Published: June 2010

The variational constraint approach is used to calculate the non-linear oil force of fixed—tilting-pad journal bearings. The non-linear oil force of a single pad is calculated by the proposed method in its coordinate system and its Jacobi matrix is calculated simultaneously for compatibility. The oil force, damping, and stiffness coefficients of the bearing are obtained by the assembly method. The unbalanced responses of the symmetrical rigid rotor dynamic system supported by fixed—tilting-pad journal bearings are analysed by the Runge—Kutta method and a Poincaré map. The effects of the pivot ratio and the preload on the stability of the rotor are analysed. The numerical results reveal complex non-linear behaviours of the system, such as periodic, period-doubling, period-13, and quasi-periodic motion.
Teaching Business Modeling Using Spreadsheets
Authors: Leong Thin-Yin , Cheong Michelle L. F.
Published: June 2010

Before spreadsheets, modeling of business concerns required some competency in mathematics (algebra, calculus, statistics, and probability) and in computer programming, skills that are rather intimidating for the average business executive and management school student. However, the spreadsheet and the personal computer revolution challenged that paradigm. With its simple intuitive interface, direct interactivity, and universal presence, the humble spreadsheet has made business modeling much easier and has been considered by many analysts as the tool of choice for exploring business opportunities. Many university professors have already adopted spreadsheets as their computing platform in support of teaching business mathematics, statistics, and management science courses. Though some business modeling skills can be learned when spreadsheets are used in the courses, they are often secondary to the task of delivering the main subject content. Working out business challenges in the real world, however, requires good spreadsheet modeling skills, in particular that of using the spreadsheet for rapid understanding of ill-defined and unstructured situations. It has been argued that basic modeling skills should be taught prior to management science methods. We agree and further assert here that modeling skills should be taught in a separate full course on “exploratory” modeling of general business challenges rather than “computational” modeling of standard problems relevant to the application of management science methods. We have designed and successfully delivered to thousands of undergraduates over the past four years a course in business modeling with spreadsheets. In this paper, we will discuss the novelty of our course content and approach and will elaborate on the key pedagogical challenges.
Concomitant Ceftriaxone and High-Concentration Intravenous Calcium Therapy in Adult Critical Care Patients: A Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Dalton Bruce R , Zuege Danny J , Shahpori Reza , Laupland Kevin B
Published: June 2010

Background:

Based on case reports in infants, the safety of concomitant use of ceftriaxone and intravenous calcium in all ages has recently come under challenge. Systematic population-based data to guide clinicians with respect to this risk are, however, lacking.

Objective:

To determine whether concomitant administration of ceftriaxone and intravenous calcium was associated with the occurrence of severe cardiorespiratory events or death in critically ill adults.

Methods:

We performed a matched-cohort study from retrospective data of adults admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) in Calgary, Canada, who were provided continuous high-dose intravenous calcium. Those who received ceftriaxone while on continuous renal replacement therapy were considered exposed. Up to 3 unexposed patients were selected by matching on a number of prognostic factors from the remaining subjects not concurrently exposed to ceftriaxone and calcium. Univariate methods and multivariate conditional logistic regression were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

We identified 142 patients exposed to the implicated combination who could be matched to at least one unexposed patient. Hospital mortality was 66% in the exposed versus 63% in unexposed patients (p = 0.442). ICU length of stay, ICU mortality, hospital length of stay, and the frequency of acute oxygenation events were all similar by univariate analysis. Multivariate conditional logistic regression modeling failed to find a significant association between exposure and hospital mortality (adjusted OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.65 to 2.04) or other relevant outcomes.

Conclusions:

In this high-risk group, administration of high concentrations of calcium and concurrent ceftriaxone was not significantly associated with greater mortality or adverse outcomes compared to matched unexposed patients. Although this was an underpowered study and rare adverse effects from the interaction of these 2 compounds cannot be completely excluded, these data provide overall reassurance of the safety of this combination in the majority of critically ill adults.
Disposition of Cannabinoids in Oral Fluid after Controlled Around-the-Clock Oral THC Administration
Authors: Milman Garry , Barnes Allan J , Schwope David M , Schwilke Eugene W , Darwin William D , Goodwin Robert S , Kelly Deanna L , Gorelick David A , Huestis Marilyn A
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND

Oral fluid, a promising alternative matrix for drug monitoring in clinical and forensic investigations, offers noninvasive sample collection under direct observation. Cannabinoid distribution into oral fluid is complex and incompletely characterized due to the lack of controlled drug administration studies.

METHODS

To characterize cannabinoid disposition in oral fluid, we administered around-the-clock oral Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (Marinol®) doses to 10 participants with current daily cannabis use. We obtained oral fluid samples (n=440) by use of Quantisal™ collection devices before, during, and after 37 20-mg THC doses over 9 days. Samples were extracted with multiple elution solvents from a single SPE column and analyzed by 2-dimensional GC-MS with electron-impact ionization for THC, 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC), cannabidiol, and cannabinol and negative chemical ionization for 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (THCCOOH). Linear ranges were 0.5–50 μg/L, with the exception of cannabinol (1–50 μg/L) and THCCOOH (7.5–500 ng/L).

RESULTS

THCCOOH was the most prevalent analyte in 432 samples (98.2%), with concentrations up to 1117.9 ng/L. In contrast, 11-OH-THC was not identified in any sample; cannabidiol and cannabinol were quantified in 3 and 8 samples, respectively, with maximum concentrations of 2.1 and 13 μg/L. THC was present in only 20.7% of samples, with highest concentrations near admission (median 4.2 μg/L, range 0.6–481.9) from previously self-administered smoked cannabis.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of THCCOOH in OF not only identifies cannabis exposure, but also minimizes the possibility of passive inhalation. THCCOOH may be a better analyte for detection of cannabis use.
On Translations of Sets and Functions
Authors: Kharazishvili A. B.
Published: June 2010

We consider some properties of sets and functions in connection with their translations. We give an application of those properties to the theory of invariant measures (in particular, to the theory of invariant extensions of the classical Lebesgue measure).
Global Existence of Solutions for Dirichlet Problem to Nonlinear Diagonal Parabolic System with Maximal Growth Conditions
Authors: Zaja̧czkowski W. M.
Published: June 2010

The Dirichlet problem to nonlinear diagonal parabolic system with some special right–hand sides but still satisfying the maximum growth conditions is considered. First applying the idea of Stampacchia a L
∞ – estimate in terms of data for a priori bounded weak solutions is found. Next following the methods of Ladyzhenskaya and Uraltseva the Hölder continuity with some exponent is proved. Next applying the results of Amann global existence of solutions is shown.
Expressive Ambivalence in Haydn's Symphonic Slow Movements of the 1770s
Authors: Sutcliffe W. Dean
Published: June 2010

While the slow movement of a later eighteenth-century instrumental cycle tended to generate less focused formal expectations than its companions, because there were so many options for its design, this was not the case with regard to expression. The relative slowing of tempo and pulse brought certain associations that have remained quite stable through to the present day. The broad expectation is that such a movement will provide such qualities as warmth, lyricism, and gravity, that it will tend to suggest reflection rather than action. There is plenty of evidence that this expectation was shared by listeners of Haydn's day. However, Haydn's own slow movements do not always seem to fit this bill. In his critique of 1776, Carl ludwig Junker specifically named the composer's Adagios in connection with what he termed Haydn's "eccentricity" and "whimsy" (Laune).

That the perception of such attributes in a slow movement was particularly problematic is evident from Junker's critique, and this has proved to be a continuing difficulty in Haydn reception. In some of the composer's symphonic slow movements from the 1770s, we encounter a manner that is not necessarily humorous or volatile but is rather characterized by unusual gestures or oddly timed events. These produce an expressive ambivalence that is in fact one of the strongest attributes of Haydn's art. This is explored with reference to the slow movements of Symphonies nos. 42, 52, 55, 64, and 67.
The Nazi Old Guard: Identity Formation During Apocalyptic Times
Authors: Redles David
Published: June 2010

This paper describes the process of identity formation that occurred just after World War I as certain Germans converted to National Socialism. Based on the autobiographical narratives of early joiners, these self-described Old Fighters, or the Old Guard, recall the Kampfzeit (the struggle-time) as a difficult period of near apocalyptic collapse. Further, they were convinced that National Socialism and its divinely appointed leader Adolf Hitler were the only means of salvation. The Old Guard identified themselves as an elect community given a holy mission to save Germany, indeed the world, from destruction by defeating Communism and its supposed progenitor, the Jew. The Nazis hoped thereby to usher in the millennial Third Reich by creating a Volksgemeinschaft (a community of people) united by a Glaubensgemeinschaft (a community of faith).