bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light Microscopic Hair Shaft Analysis in Ectodermal Dysplasia Syndromes
Authors: Hirano Stefanie A. , Mason Ashley R. , Salkey Kimberly , Williams Judith V. , Pariser David M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The objective of the study was to catalog hair shaft abnormalities in individuals with ectodermal dysplasia (ED) syndromes using light microscopy and to compare findings with those in unaffected controls. Light microscopy was performed in a nonblinded manner on hair shafts from 65 participants with seven types of ED (hypohidrotic ED, ED–ectrodactyly–cleft lip or palate, ankyloblepharon–ectodermal defects–cleft lip and palate, Clouston syndrome, Goltz syndrome, Schopf‐Schulz Passarge syndrome, and oculodentodigital dysplasia) and 41 unaffected controls. Hair donations were collected at the 28th Annual National Family Conference held by the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasia. Control participants were recruited from a private dermatology practice and an academic children’s hospital outpatient dermatology clinic. Sixty‐five affected participants and 41 unaffected controls were included in the analysis. We assessed the hair shafts of ED and control participants for abnormalities visible using LM. Light microscopy identified various pathologic hair shaft abnormalities in each type of ED, although none of the findings were statistically significantly different from those of the control group. Light microscopy is a poor adjuvant tool in the diagnosis of ED syndromes. Most findings are nonspecific and not sufficiently sensitive.
Ulcerated Lupus Vulgaris at the Site of Bacille Calmette‐Guérin Vaccination
Authors: Singal Archana , Sonthalia Sidharth , Pandhi Deepika
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  We report a case of ulcerated lupus vulgaris occurring in 1.5‐year‐old boy at the Bacille Calmette‐Guérin vaccination site within 6 months, which was diagnosed using histology and polymerase chain reaction. The lesion resolved with isoniazid and rifampicin therapy.
Febrile Ulceronecrotic Mucha‐Habermann Disease (Pityriasis Lichenoides et Varioliformis Acuta Fulminans) Presenting as Stevens‐Johnson Syndrome
Authors: Kaufman William S. , McNamara Elizabeth K. , Curtis Ashley R. , Kosari Payman , Jorizzo Joseph L. , Krowchuk Daniel P.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  We present two pediatric patients with pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta fulminans whose admitting diagnosis was Stevens Johnson Syndrome. The patients were successfully treated with methotrexate and prednisone. These cases highlight the importance of early recognition and treatment of this disease to prevent further morbidity and a potentially fatal prognosis.
A Population‐Based Longitudinal Community Study of Major Depression and Migraine
Authors: Modgill Geeta , Jette Nathalie , Wang Jian Li , Becker Werner J. , Patten Scott B.
Published: November 2011

Objective.— To examine whether major depressive episodes (MDEs) are associated with an increased risk of migraine in the general population and to examine whether migraine is associated with an increase risk of MDE.

Background.— Population‐based cross‐sectional studies have consistently reported an association between migraine and depression. However, longitudinal studies about this potentially bidirectional association are inconsistent.

Methods.— This retrospective cohort study used 12 years of follow‐up data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey (15,254 respondents, age >12). Stratified analysis, logistic regression, and proportional hazard modeling were used to quantify the effect of migraine on subsequent MDE status and vice versa.

Results.— After adjusting for sex, age, and other chronic health conditions, respondents with migraine were 60% more likely (HR 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.3‐1.9) to develop MDE compared with those without migraine. Similarly adjusting for sex and age, respondents with MDE were 40% more likely (HR 1.4, 95% confidence interval 1.0‐1.9) to develop migraine compared with those without MDE. However, the latter association disappeared after adjustment for stress and childhood trauma.

Conclusions.— The current study provides substantial evidence that migraine is associated with the later development of MDEs, but does not provide strong causal evidence of an association in the other direction. Environmental factors such as childhood trauma and stress may shape the expression of this bidirectional relationship; however, the precise underlying mechanisms are not yet known.

(Headache 2012;52:422‐432)
From China's “Peaceful Rise” to Building Communites of Interest
Authors: BIJIAN ZHENG
Published: November 2011

The sovereign debt problem in Europe, ignited by Greece, has morphed into an economic crisis challenging the solvency of major banks and countries as well as a generalized crisis of governance. Lacking the legitimacy of public support, the leaders of the European Union's fledgling institutions have been indecisive and unable to contain the looming danger of financial contagion. Along with the economic slowdown in the United States, instability and volatility in Europe threaten to derail the fragile global recovery.

In this section, several former European leaders as well as political figures from the emerging economies offer their ideas on how to fix Europe and stem the global threat.
Long–Term Orientation and Intertemporal Choice in Family Firms
Authors: Lumpkin G. T. , Brigham Keith H.
Published: November 2011

A long–term orientation (LTO) is often associated with family firms, but the LTO construct is underdeveloped. This paper sets forth a framework for studying LTO in family firms including developing three dimensions—futurity, continuity, and perseverance. It identifies LTO as a higher–order heuristic that, in matters of intertemporal choice, provides a dominant logic for decisions and actions. Intertemporal choice refers to decisions with payoffs or outcomes that play out over time. Three mechanisms affecting intertemporal choices are identified—representation, self–control, and anticipation. LTO and intertemporal choice are further examined and discussed in the context of family firms.
Commentary: Family Firms and the Advantage of Multitemporality
Authors: Le Breton-Miller Isabelle , Miller Danny
Published: November 2011

In this commentary, we argue the need for multitemporality (MT)—the ability to achieve enduring success by meeting both short– and long–term challenges—and we show how many family firms are in a superior position to do that. We situate Lumpkin and Brigham's (L&B's) long–term orientation (LTO) components within a multitemporal frame in part by relating them to their primary mechanisms of intertemporality. We then extend L&B's LTO conception by moving from an organizational mindset to its effective actualization via multitemporal facilitators as they manifest in family firms, arguing also the conditions under which family firms have an advantage in achieving MT. We conclude with a discussion of suggested research directions.
Traditions in Transition: Adolescents Remaking Culture
Authors: LeVine Robert A.
Published: November 2011

This article proposes a cohort‐based theoretical model of understanding adolescence as a key moment in the intersection of individual and cultural change. Drawing on work from anthropology, psychology, and sociology, adolescence is shown to be a critical time for examining the proximate interactions of individuals with the cultural models and norms transmitted to them in the re‐creation of new generational norms and practices. Examples are provided fromKenya,Mexico, andNepal as well as theUnitedStates. This kind of psychocultural research contributes to policy, practice, and theory regarding both adolescence and cultural change.
p‐Phenylenediamine and other hair dye sensitizers in Spain
Authors: Yazar Kerem , Boman Anders , Lidén Carola
Published: November 2011

Background. Oxidative hair dyes are important skin sensitizers, causing contact allergy and dermatitis in hairdressers and consumers.

Objectives. To study the prevalence of hair dye substances, categorized as potent skin sensitizers, in consumer‐available oxidative hair dye products on the market of a southern European country and to compare it with that in Sweden.

Methods. Ingredient labels of 105 oxidative hair dye products from 19 brands were studied, and the prevalence and use pattern of hair dye substances, categorized as potent skin sensitizers, was assessed. Network diagrams were used to display results.

Results. According to the labelling, all 105 products contained hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers. A total of 25 different hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers were identified. Eighty‐seven per cent of the products contained at least four such substances. Either p‐phenylenediamine, toluene‐2,5‐diamine or toluene‐2,5‐diamine sulfate was present in 103 products.

Conclusions. Hair dye substances categorized as potent skin sensitizers were used in all studied hair dye products on the Spanish market. The prevalence of p‐phenylenediamine was higher in the present study than in a similar study in Sweden. More than 20 potent sensitizers were identified in each country. Not only p‐phenylenediamine should be used to diagnose allergy to hair dyes.
Allergic complications from orthopaedic joint implants: the role of delayed hypersensitivity to benzoyl peroxide in bone cement
Authors: Bircher Andreas , Friederich Niklaus F. , Seelig Walter , Scherer Kathrin
Published: November 2011

Background. Orthopaedic implants and osteosynthesis materials are increasingly being used. Complications include mainly physical–mechanical problems and infections. Uncommonly, an allergic reaction towards an alloy metal or a bone cement component has been implicated. Potential bone cement allergens include acrylates, benzoyl peroxide, N,N‐dimethyl‐p‐toluidine, and gentamicin. Typical symptoms are pain, swelling, inflammatory skin reactions, implant loosening, and fistula formation.

Objectives. To report on 5 patients with complications from a knee or a shoulder joint implant in whom a relevant sensitization to benzoyl peroxide was shown.

Methods. Patch tests were performed with the European baseline series, an extended metal series, and a bone cement series. Patch tests with benzoyl peroxide were performed twice in all patients. A bone cement‐free replacement was chosen in sensitized patients.

Results. In 4 patients sensitized to benzoyl peroxide, a bone cement‐free replacement resulted in a considerable decrease or disappearance of pain and swelling, and complete clearing of cutaneous symptoms.

Conclusions. Components of bone cement, such as benzoyl peroxide, may rarely cause allergic complications. However, because of the irritant potential of these substances, careful performance, reading and interpretation of the patch tests is required.
Predicting network topology of mistletoe–host interactions: do mistletoes really mimic their hosts?
Authors: Blick R. A. J. , Burns K. C. , Moles A. T.
Published: November 2011

Network analysis provides a unified framework for investigating different types of species interactions at the community level. Network analysis is typically based on null models that test for specific patterns in network topology. Here we use a novel predictive approach to investigate the topology of a mistletoe–host network. It has been hypothesised that Australian mistletoes mimic the phenotype of their preferred hosts to avoid herbivory. We developed a deterministic model based on phenotypic similarity to predict the topology of a quantitative network between Lauranthaceaous mistletoes and their hosts. We quantified mistletoe–host interactions in a semi‐arid woodland central Australia, along with the size, shape and colour of leaves produced by both players in the interaction. Traditional null model analyses showed support for negative co‐occurrence patterns, web specialisation and strong links between species pairs. However, our deterministic model showed that the observed network topology could not be predicted by phenotypic similarity, suggesting that Australian mistletoes do not mimic their hosts.
Compliance with age and skin type restrictions following the introduction of indoor tanning legislation in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Makin Jennifer K. , Hearne Kimberley , Dobbinson Suzanne J.
Published: November 2011

Background/Purpose

The study aimed to establish compliance of indoor tanning businesses with 2009 legislation, particularly with requirements to provide information on skin cancer and exclude people under 18 or with fair skin.

Methods

Compliance was tested through surveys and in‐person visits to 30 businesses in Melbourne, Australia. Research assistants presented as potential customers with different profiles: young adults eligible to use a sunbed, young adults with fair skin, under age customers who prompted with their age and under age customers who concealed their age and claimed to be 18 if asked.

Results

Communicating the risks of skin cancer during the visit improved from 70% in 2003, prior to the introduction of legislation, to 97% in 2009. While there were improvements in restricting access to sunbeds among high‐risk groups, compliance of indoor tanning businesses with age and skin type restrictions remained less than optimal. Almost half (47%) allowed access to fair‐skinned research assistants, compared with 90% in 2003. Only one of the 30 operators allowed access to a teenager who prompted with her age; in 2003, 52% of under age teenagers were granted access without parental consent. However, when teenagers concealed their age or claimed to be 18, 80% of operators granted them access.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that regulation of the indoor tanning industry is a better approach to this health issue than voluntary standards and/or education. Nonetheless, inadequate compliance with requirements to exclude high‐risk groups lends weight to calls for stricter monitoring and enforcement, or an absolute ban.
Comparison of topical 8‐methoxypsoralen and narrowband ultraviolet B with narrowband ultraviolet B alone in treatment‐resistant sites in plaque‐type psoriasis: a placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Ehsani Amir‐Houshang , Ghaninejad Haydeh , Kiani Amin , Daneshpazhooh Maryam , Hosseini S. Hamed , Noormohammadpoor Pedram
Published: November 2011

Background

Combination of topical methoxsalen and narrowband ultraviolet B (NBUVB) was shown to be more effective than NBUVB alone in treating plaque‐type psoriasis.

Objective

To find out whether topical methoxsalen and NBUVB had any benefit in induction of remission on treatment‐resistant plaques of psoriasis on the legs in comparison with NBUVB alone.

Methods

Ten patients were included. Two symmetric lesions with similar Psoriasis Severity Index score on the lower legs were randomly assigned to be treated with cold cream as placebo or 0.1% 8‐methoxypsoralen (8MOP) cream 15 min before phototherapy with NBUVB. Phototherapy was given three times per week for up to three months. Severity scores were recorded each week and side effects were observed before each session.

Results

Significant decrease in the severity score was observed in both groups (P‐value < 0.001), but none of the lesions cleared completely at the end of the study. The decrease of the score in the 8MOP arm was greater than the control arm; however, the difference was not significant. The only side effect was pigmentation that occurred in all of the 8MOP‐treated patients after 2 weeks.

Conclusion

We could not confirm any significant benefit of topical methoxsalen and NBUVB in comparison to NBUVB alone in treating resistant plaques of psoriasis on the legs.
Photodynamic therapy for a hypertrophic scarring: a promising choice
Authors: Bruscino Nicola , Lotti Torello , Rossi Riccardo
Published: November 2011

The case we report is about a female patient, 69 years old, who had a hypertrophic scarring on the right cheek because of a bite by her dog. She had attempted many types of topical and intralesional treatments but without success. The patient underwent photodynamic therapy (PDT), employing a methyl ester of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (MAL) as topical photosensitizer and a non‐coherent red light at a wavelength of 632 nm. This session was then repeated three more times at 2‐week intervals. A month after the last session, the scarred area significantly softened, becoming more flexible, less erythematous, smoother and reduced in volume. The patient was greatly satisfied with the clinical and cosmetic result, she had no more than rough scarring on the cheek, and her skin in the area around the lesion was very smooth, wrinkle‐free. She did not show any recurrence of her hypertrophic scarring after 1 year of follow‐up. PDT revealed to be the most effective approach if compared with previous therapeutic options received by the patient, but further studies are necessary to evaluate protocols to be used for the best results in this kind of application.
Neurodevelopmental outcome in full‐term newborns with refractory neonatal seizures
Authors: Maartens Imke A , Wassenberg Tessa , Buijs Jan , Bok Levinus , de Kleine Martin JK , Katgert Titia , Andriessen Peter
Published: November 2011

Aim:  This retrospective study describes the prognosis of full‐term newborns with refractory neonatal seizures, comparing the need for treatment with two versus three or more antiepileptic drugs.

Methods:  We reviewed our database (January 2002–December 2007) to include newborns with refractory neonatal seizures and abnormal electroencephalogram. Group A consisted of 17 newborns with two antiepileptic drugs. Group B consisted of 29 newborns with three or more antiepileptic drugs. Outcome was determined at 2 years of age using the Dutch Bayley Scales of Infant Development or a neurodevelopmental classification scheme.

Results:  Group A and group B were comparable regarding to a variety of demographic and aetiologic factors. Thirteen newborns died before 2 years of age and one was lost to follow‐up. Normal development at 2 years of age was found in 50% and 5% for group A and B, respectively. Severe neurodevelopmental delay at 2 years of age was found in 30% and 68% for group A and B, respectively.

Conclusion:  The number of antiepileptic drugs probably reflects increased seizure burden and is – in that way – related to poor outcome. This may be useful information for early prediction of adverse neurological outcome in the first days of life.
Creating Natural‐Looking Removable Prostheses: Combining Art and Science to Imitate Nature
Authors: PATRAS MICHAEL , KOURTIS STEFANOS , SYKARAS NIKITAS
Published: November 2011

Patient awareness of dental appearance has increased, resulting in more demanding esthetic requests. There is also strong evidence that increased esthetics is highly significant for complete denture acceptance and success. Taking notice of patients' perceptions of natural appearance and esthetics, the clinician can incorporate their preferences in the construction of individualized dentures that will be harmonized with their facial characteristics.

Despite the evolution of materials and techniques, the vast majority of dentures still fail to look natural. Thus, producing prostheses that defy detection and successfully restore the appearance of edentulous patients remains a challenge for the clinician.

This paper presents a clinical case where immediate loading of implants supporting a mandibular overdenture was combined with an opposing conventional maxillary denture to satisfy the high functional and esthetic demands of the patient. It also emphasizes the individualized esthetic performance through customization during their fabrication while taking into consideration the various clinical parameters affecting rehabilitation of the edentulous jaw.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Implant‐retained overdentures can significantly improve the patients' function. The esthetic performance of these restorations however, may not be satisfying the patients' expectations and demands. Customizing the artificial gingival areas and individual staining of the prefabricated acrylic teeth may improve the esthetic performance creating natural‐looking removable prostheses.

(J Esthet Restor Dent ••:••–••, 2011)
Assessing the accuracy of the surface gravity determination in late-type stars with solar-like pulsators
Authors: Morel Thierry , Miglio Andrea
Published: November 2011

The frequency of maximum oscillation power measured in dwarfs and giants exhibiting solar-like pulsations provides a precise, and potentially accurate, inference of the stellar surface gravity. An extensive comparison for about 40 well-studied pulsating stars with gravities derived using classical methods (ionization balance, pressure-sensitive spectral features or location with respect to evolutionary tracks) supports the validity of this technique and reveals an overall remarkable agreement with mean differences not exceeding 0.05 dex (although with a dispersion of up to ∼0.2 dex). It is argued that interpolation in theoretical isochrones may be the most precise way of estimating the gravity by traditional means in nearby dwarfs. Attention is drawn to the usefulness of seismic targets as benchmarks in the context of large-scale surveys.
Pediatric Research and the Return of Individual Research Results
Authors: Avard Denise , Sénécal Karine , Madadi Parvaz , Sinnett Daniel
Published: November 2011

As a matter of respect for the person, it is considered an ethical duty to offer to return research results to participants where appropriate. Nevertheless, the return of individual research results to participants raises many socio-ethical issues and greater challenges when the participant is a child. This discrepancy arises partly because the return of individual pediatric research results entails a tripartite relationship between researcher, child, and parent(s) and is embroiled in numerous considerations (e.g., acting in the best interest of the child, respect for the person, and respect for the autonomy of the parents/child).

Extra caution is required in the pediatric research context because children cannot generally decide (consent) whether they want to be informed of their own research results or whether the results should be disclosed to parents. Children have long been considered a special and vulnerable group, and their parents, as guardians, play a critical role in the consent process. However, with regards to the return of individual research results, this might pose a potential conflict of interest between the current or future desires of the child and those of the parents.
Biobanks and the Return of Research Results: Out with the Old and in with the New?
Authors: Zawati Ma'n H. , Rioux Amélie
Published: November 2011

In 2009, Time magazine named “biobanks” as one of the 10 ideas changing the world. These organized collections of human biological material and associated data have been identified as “vital research tools in the drive to uncover the consequences of human health and disease.” Since their inception, however, biobanks have faced ethical and legal challenges. Whether these pertain to informed consent, access by researchers, commercialization, confidentiality, or governance, biobanks must continue to address jurisdictional matters, operational difficulties, and normative frameworks that strive to stay abreast of current scientific innovation. Yet, with some biobanks now having completed their recruitment objectives and with research currently being performed on their data and samples, one topic has become the focus of ongoing debates: the return of research results to participants.
Communitarianism and the Ethics of Communicable Disease: Some Preliminary Thoughts
Authors: Cheyette Cara M.
Published: November 2011

Communicable diseases, especially those that are readily contagious, are on the rise as evidenced by the emergence of viruses like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), the global resurgence of resistant forms of ancient mycobacteria such as extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR TB), and the 2009 swine flu outbreak in Mexico. Moreover, each of us, no matter who we are or where we live, is just as likely to transmit contagious diseasestoothers as we are to contract such diseasesfromothers. As cogently described in the title of a recent book by Margaret Battin et al., we are all potential “victims and vectors.”

Just as contagious diseases are readily passed person to person, so too can they readily be passed across local and national boundaries. We therefore all have a stake in the development of effective infectious disease control policies on a national scale, with “effective” being the operative term: regulations and statutes that are neither enforceable nor likely to be complied with may do more harm than good.
Currents in Contemporary Bioethics
Authors: Rothstein Mark A.
Published: November 2011

Physicians' duties to their patients traditionally have been construed narrowly in time and scope to focus on the specific episode of care or clinical encounter. Physicians generally have had no ethical or legal duty to notify patients about new medical information discovered after a visit, notwithstanding the health care benefits to patients that might flow from receiving the information. The rule was based on the relatively high burdens that notification would impose on physicians compared with the likelihood of benefits to patients. This established view, however, no longer may be appropriate in light of new physician-patient relationships and the reduced burden of patient notification using new types of health information technology (HIT). This article explores the duty to inform patients and former patients about relevant, medical developments subsequent to their episode of care. It concludes by recommending the recognition in ethics and law of a limited, ongoing duty to notify patients of significant information relevant to their health.
Linking Preservice Teachers' Mathematics Self‐Efficacy and Mathematics Teaching Efficacy to Their Mathematical Performance
Authors: Bates Alan B. , Latham Nancy , Kim Jin‐ah
Published: November 2011

This study examined preservice teachers' mathematics self‐efficacy and mathematics teaching efficacy and compared them to their mathematical performance. Participants included 89 early childhood preservice teachers at a Midwestern university. Instruments included the Mathematics Self‐Efficacy Scale (MSES), Mathematics Teaching Efficacy Beliefs Instrument (MTEBI), and the Illinois Certification Testing System (ICTS) Basic Skills Test. The results indicate that preservice teachers' mathematics self‐efficacy is positively correlated to their personal mathematics teaching efficacy. In addition, their mathematical performance is related to their mathematics self‐efficacy and mathematics teaching efficacy. In regard to affecting student outcomes, only those preservice teachers who are very confident in their ability to teach believe they can have an effect on their students. Implications on teacher education programs are discussed.
A Cross‐Cultural Lesson Comparison on Teaching the Connection Between Multiplication and Division
Authors: Xin Yan Ping , Liu Jia , Zheng Xiaoning
Published: November 2011

This study compared one lesson across four U.S. “traditional” textbook series, two U.S. reform‐based textbook series, and one Chinese mathematics textbook series in teaching the connection between multiplication and division. The results showed the differences across U.S. and Chinese lessons in both the teaching and the practice parts of the lesson across three dimensions (i.e., problem schemata, response requirement, and algebra readiness). In particular, the Chinese lesson's penetrating analysis or explanation of the topic is reflected in its deliberately constructed examples and wide range of problems (pertaining to problem types and difficulty levels) present in the teaching and practice sections of the lesson. None of analyzed U.S. lessons are comparable with the Chinese lesson with respect to the breadth and depth in teaching the topic. A deliberate emphasis, both arithmetically and algebraically, on problem schema acquisition as found in the Chinese lesson represents a promotion of symbolic or higher order of conceptual understanding. The findings are discussed within the context of teaching big ideas through problem schemata acquisition and the importance of symbolic level of conceptual understanding.
Cross‐sectional survey of diabetic neuropathy in Kanagawa and clinical significance of a touch test using tissue paper
Authors: Jin Yasuyuki , Kanamori Akira , Ito Shogo , Matoba Kiyokazu , Miyakawa Masaaki , Kaneshige Hideaki , Obana Mitsuo , Takai Masahiko , Takeda Hiroshi , Machimura Hideo , Minami Nobuaki , Kawata Takahiro , Honda Shin , Aoyagi Sachio , Amemiya Hikaru , Sasai Nobuo , Nakayama Michio , Naka Yoshikazu , Terauchi Yasuo , Matsuba Ikuro
Published: November 2011

Aims/Introduction:  The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing rapidly in Japan, and diabetic neuropathy is a major factor decreasing diabetic patients’ quality of life, as well as a risk factor for sudden death. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of diabetic neuropathy and raise awareness about it among patients and their physicians.

Materials and Methods:  Diabetic outpatients (N = 5077) at 249 medical institutions within Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, were surveyed by questionnaire and underwent foot examinations. The questionnaire included 10 questions about sensory abnormalities of both feet, muscle cramps and autonomic symptoms. Foot examinations included testing for vibratory perception of the medial malleolus, Achilles tendon reflexes and touch sensation of the bottom of the great toe using tissue paper.

Results:  Of the 5077 patients surveyed, 70.4% reported symptoms. Overall, 75.4% of the patients underwent vibratory perception testing, of whom 44.9% had abnormal thresholds (≤10 s). On the tissue paper touch test, performed in 94.6% of patients, 11.9% had no touch sensation. Of the 2803 type 2 diabetic patients with known background factors who underwent foot examinations, 49.4% had diabetic neuropathy. There was a high prevalence of diabetic neuropathy (36.1%) in patients with <5‐year history. Of the patients with no touch sensation on the tissue paper test, 81.3% had diabetic neuropathy.

Conclusions:  The present study identified the prevalence of diabetic neuropathy in Kanagawa Prefecture. The tissue paper test is a simple and excellent method of evaluating decreased superficial sensation that can help evaluate the severity of diabetic neuropathy. (J Diabetes Invest, doi: 10.1111/j.2040‐1124.2011.00174.x, 2011)
Nictitating membrane resection in the horse: A comparison of long‐term outcomes using local vs. general anaesthesia
Authors: LABELLE A. L. , METZLER A. G. , WILKIE D. A.
Published: November 2011

Reasons for performing study:Neoplasia, for which surgical excision is a frequent treatment, is the most common disease of the equine nictitating membrane. There is little long‐term follow‐up information available to the practitioner regarding the long‐term effects of nictitating membrane excision on ocular health. No information is available to compare recurrence of primary neoplasia of the nictitating membrane after excision with local or general anaesthesia.

Objectives:To evaluate the long‐term complications of nictitating membrane resection in horses; recurrence of neoplasia of the nictitating membrane when nictitating membrane resection is performed under local vs. general anaesthesia and if the method of anaesthesia used to permit resection of the affected membrane influences the recurrence of neoplasia of the nictitating membrane after complete nictitating membrane resection.

Methods:Records of 26 horses receiving resection of the nictitating membrane for primary neoplasia of the nictitating membrane 1999–2009 were reviewed. Clinical examination findings, surgical procedure, anaesthesia type, histopathological findings and details of adjunctive treatment were recorded. Owners were contacted via telephone regarding post operative outcomes. Data were analysed using a Fisher's exact test (P<0.05).

Results:The most common long‐term complication of nictitating membrane excision was mild ocular discharge. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most frequent histopathological diagnosis. Recurrence of neoplasia was uncommon (2/26 horses). No significant difference in the number of horses experiencing recurrence of neoplasia was detected between groups receiving general anaesthesia vs. those receiving local anaesthesia.

Conclusions:Resection of the nictitating membrane in horses following local anaesthesia is not associated with increased risk of recurrence of neoplasia compared with excision under general anaesthesia. Resection of the nictitating membrane is not associated with any long‐term ocular side effects and can be an effective modality for cure of primary neoplasia of the nictitating membrane in selected cases.
Paper deacidification and UV protection using ZnO atomic layer deposition
Authors: Hanson C. A. , Oldham C. J. , Parsons G. N.
Published: November 2011

Acid degradation of cellulosic paper in archival books, periodicals, and historic documents is a serious and widespread problem. Using acidic page samples from ∼40 year old books, we demonstrate that atomic layer deposition (ALD) ZnO can adjust and controllably neutralize the paper acid content. The paper samples were collected and analyzed in accordance with recognized Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) test standards. The average pH of the starting paper was 3.7 ± 0.4 and 4.4 ± 0.1 as determined using the TAPPI surface probe and cold water extraction methods, respectively. After 50 ALD ZnO cycles, the same tests on the coated paper produced an average pH of 7.39 ± 0.08 and 7.3 ± 0.4, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the cellulose structure remained intact during ALD. Additional tests of recently printed newspaper samples coated with ALD ZnO also show that ALD can effectively prevent paper discoloration and embrittlement caused by UV sunlight photoexposure. While there are many known methods for paper preservation, including others using diethyl zinc, the control afforded by ALD provides attractive advantages over other known approaches for preservation of archival paper and other natural fibrous materials.
Acetylate During Fasting
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: November 2011

Acetylation inactivates the transcription factor FoxO1 during nutrient starvation to promote metabolism of lipids over glucose.
A New Pathway for Prostaglandins
Authors: Mueller Kristen L.
Published: November 2011

A new tissue-specific pathway for the synthesis of proinflammatory prostaglandins is described.
Assembly of Xylanases into Designer Cellulosomes Promotes Efficient Hydrolysis of the Xylan Component of a Natural Recalcitrant Cellulosic Substrate
Authors: Moraïs Sarah , Barak Yoav , Hadar Yitzhak , Wilson David B. , Shoham Yuval , Lamed Raphael , Bayer Edward A.
Published: November 2011

In nature, the complex composition and structure of the plant cell wall pose a barrier to enzymatic degradation. Nevertheless, some anaerobic bacteria have evolved for this purpose an intriguing, highly efficient multienzyme complex, the cellulosome, which contains numerous cellulases and hemicellulases. The rod-like cellulose component of the plant cell wall is embedded in a colloidal blend of hemicelluloses, a major component of which is xylan. In order to enhance enzymatic degradation of the xylan component of a natural complex substrate (wheat straw) and to study the synergistic action among different xylanases, we have employed a variation of the designer cellulosome approach by fabricating a tetravalent complex that includes the three endoxylanases of
Thermobifida fusca
(Xyn10A, Xyn10B, and Xyn11A) and an Xyl43A β-xylosidase from the same bacterium. Here, we describe the conversion of Xyn10A and Xyl43A to the cellulosomal mode. The incorporation of the Xyl43A enzyme together with the three endoxylanases into a common designer cellulosome served to enhance the level of reducing sugars produced during wheat straw degradation. The enhanced synergistic action of the four xylanases reflected their immediate juxtaposition in the complex, and these tetravalent xylanolytic designer cellulosomes succeeded in degrading significant (~25%) levels of the total xylan component of the wheat straw substrate. The results suggest that the incorporation of xylanases into cellulosome complexes is advantageous for efficient decomposition of recalcitrant cellulosic substrates—a distinction previously reserved for cellulose-degrading enzymes.

IMPORTANCE
Xylanases are important enzymes for our society, due to their variety of industrial applications. Together with cellulases and other glycoside hydrolases, xylanases may also provide cost-effective conversion of plant-derived cellulosic biomass into soluble sugars en route to biofuels as an alternative to fossil fuels. Xylanases are commonly found in multienzyme cellulosome complexes, produced by anaerobic bacteria, which are considered to be among the most efficient systems for degradation of cellulosic biomass. Using a designer cellulosome approach, we have incorporated the entire xylanolytic system of the bacterium
Thermobifida fusca
into defined artificial cellulosome complexes. The combined action of these designer cellulosomes versus that of the wild-type free xylanase system was then compared. Our data demonstrated that xylanolytic designer cellulosomes displayed enhanced synergistic activities on a natural recalcitrant wheat straw substrate and could thus serve in the development of advanced systems for improved degradation of lignocellulosic material.
Mechanisms of injuries in World Cup Snowboard Cross: a systematic video analysis of 19 cases
Authors: Bakken Arnhild , Bere Tone , Bahr Roald , Kristianslund Eirik , Nordsletten Lars
Published: November 2011

Background

Snowboard cross (SBX) became an official Olympic sport in 2006. This discipline includes manoeuvring several obstacles while competing in heats. It is common for the riders to collide, making this sport both exciting and at risk of injuries. Although a recent study from the 2010 Olympic Games has shown that the injury risk was high, little is known about the injury mechanisms.

Objective

To qualitatively describe the injury situation and mechanism of injuries in World Cup Snowboard Cross.

Study design

Descriptive video analysis.

Methods

Nineteen video recordings of SBX injuries reported through the International Ski Federation Injury Surveillance System for four World Cup seasons (2006 to 2010) were obtained. Five experts in the field of sports medicine, snowboard and biomechanics performed analyses of each case to describe the injury mechanism in detail (riding situation and rider behaviour).

Results

Injuries occurred at jumping (n=13), bank turning (n=5) or rollers (n=1). The primary cause of the injuries was a technical error at take-off resulting in a too high jump and subsequent flat-landing. The rider was then unable to recover leading to fall at the time of injury. Injuries at bank turn was characterised by a pattern where the rider in a balanced position lost control due to unintentional contact with another rider.

Conclusion

Jumping appeared to be the most challenging obstacle in SBX, where a technical error at take-off was the primary cause of the injuries. The second most common inciting event was unintentional board contact between riders at bank turning.
CLUSTERING OF DECISION TABLES TOWARD ROUGH SET-BASED GROUP DECISION AID
Authors: INUIGUCHI MASAHIRO , ENOMOTO RYUTA
Published: November 2011

In order to analyze the distribution of individual opinions (decision rules) in a group, clustering of decision tables is proposed. An agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) of decision tables has been examined. The result of AHC does not always optimize some criterion. We develop non-hierarchical clustering techniques for decision tables. In order to treat positive and negative evaluations to a common profile, we use a vector of rough membership values to represent individual opinion to a profile. Using rough membership values, we develop a K -means method as well as fuzzy c-means methods for clustering decision tables. We examined the proposed methods in clustering real world decision tables obtained by a questionnaire investigation.
CO-CITATIONS AND RELEVANCE OF AUTHORS AND AUTHOR GROUPS
Authors: BRAS-AMORÓS MARIA , DOMINGO-FERRER JOSEP , VICO-OTON ALBERT
Published: November 2011

The way an author or a group of authors are cited tells more about the real impact of their work than authorship and collaborations. Indeed, the connections within the scientific community can be more accurately elicited from the co-citation graph than from the collaboration graph. We suggest some indices that can be drawn from the co-citation graph in order to capture the relevance of individual authors and the relevance of groups of authors.
Mammary gland morphological and gene expression changes underlying pregnancy protection of breast cancer tumorigenesis
Authors: Misra Yogi , Bentley Pamela A. , Bond Jeffrey P. , Tighe Scott , Hunter Timothy , Zhao Feng-Qi
Published: November 2011

A full-term pregnancy early in life reduces lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, and the effect can be mimicked in rodents by full-term pregnancy or short-term treatment with exogenous estrogen and progesterone. To gain insight into the protective mechanism, 15 3-mo-old postpubertal virgin Lewis rats were randomly assigned to three groups: control (C), pregnancy (P), or hormone (H). The P group animals underwent a full-term pregnancy, and H group animals were implanted subcutaneously with silastic capsules filled with ethynyl estradiol and megesterol acetate for 21 days. C and P animals were implanted with sham capsules. On day 21 capsules were removed, which was followed by a 49-day involution period, euthanasia, and mammary tissue collection. Global gene expression was measured using Rat Genome 230.2 Arrays. Histological analysis revealed that P and H treatments induced sustained morphological changes in the mammary gland with significantly increased percentages of mammary parenchyma and stromal tissues and higher ratio of stroma to parenchyma. Transcriptome analysis showed that P and H treatments induced sustained global changes in gene expression in the mammary gland. Analysis of commonly up- and downregulated genes in P and H relative to C treatment showed increased expression of three matrix metallopeptidases (Mmp3, 8, and 12), more differentiated mammary phenotype, enhanced innate and adaptive immunity, and reduced cell proliferation and angiogenic signatures. The sustained morphological and global gene expression changes in mammary tissue after pregnancy and hormone treatment may function together to provide the protective effect against breast cancer.
Myocardial transcriptome analysis of human arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Gaertner Anna , Schwientek Patrick , Ellinghaus Peter , Summer Holger , Golz Stefan , Kassner Astrid , Schulz Uwe , Gummert Jan , Milting Hendrik
Published: November 2011

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited cardiomyopathy primarily of the right ventricle characterized through fibrofatty replacement of cardiomyocytes. The genetic etiology in ARVC patients is most commonly caused by dominant inheritance and high genetic heterogeneity. Though histological examinations of ARVC-affected human myocardium reveals fibrolipomatous replacement, the molecular mechanisms leading to loss of cardiomyocytes are largely unknown. We therefore analyzed the transcriptomes of six ARVC hearts and compared our findings to six nonfailing donor hearts (NF). To characterize the ARVC-specific transcriptome, we compared our findings to samples from seven patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The myocardial DCM and ARVC samples were prepared from hearts explanted during an orthotopic heart transplantation representing myocardium from end-stage heart failure patients (NYHA IV). From each heart, left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) myocardial samples were analyzed by Affymetrix HG-U133 Plus 2.0 arrays, adding up to six sample groups. Unsupervised cluster analyses of the groups revealed a clear separation of NF and cardiomyopathy samples. However, in contrast to the other samples, the analyses revealed no distinct expression pattern in LV and RV of myocardial ARVC samples. We further identified differentially expressed transcripts using t-tests and found transcripts separating diseased and NF ventricular myocardium. Of note, in failing myocardium only ∼15–16% of the genes are commonly regulated compared with NF samples. In addition both cardiomyopathies are clearly distinct on the transcriptome level. Comparison of the expression patterns between the failing RV and LV using a paired t-test revealed a lack of major differences between LV and RV gene expression in ARVC hearts. Our study is the first analysis of specific ARVC-related RV and LV gene expression patterns in terminal failing human hearts.
Comparison of human cardiac gene expression profiles in paired samples of right atrium and left ventricle collected in vivo
Authors: Asp Julia , Synnergren Jane , Jonsson Marianne , Dellgren Göran , Jeppsson Anders
Published: November 2011

Studies of expressed genes in human heart provide insight into both physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms. This is of importance for extended understanding of cardiac function as well as development of new therapeutic drugs. Heart tissue for gene expression studies is generally hard to obtain, particularly from the ventricles. Since different parts of the heart have different functions, expression profiles should likely differ between these parts. The aim of the study was therefore to compare the global gene expression in cardiac tissue from the more accessible auricula of the right atrium to expression in tissue from the left ventricle. Tissue samples were collected from five men undergoing aortic valve replacement or coronary artery bypass grafting. Global gene expression analysis identified 542 genes as differentially expressed between the samples extracted from these two locations, corresponding to ∼2% of the genes covered by the microarray; 416 genes were identified as abundantly expressed in right atrium, and 126 genes were abundantly expressed in left ventricle. Further analysis of the differentially expressed genes according to available annotations, information from curated pathways and known protein interactions, showed that genes with higher expression in the ventricle were mainly associated with contractile work of the heart. Transcription in biopsies from the auricula of the right atrium on the other hand indicated a wider area of functions, including immunity and defense. In conclusion, our results suggest that biopsies from the auricula of the right atrium may be suitable for various genetic studies, but not studies directly related to muscle work.
Experiment and Simulation Investigation on the Tensile Behavior of Composite Laminate with Stitching Reinforcement
Authors: Wang Yi , Hou Nai Xian , Yue Zhu Feng
Published: November 2011

The experiments and finite element simulations of composite laminate with stitching are carried out. Firstly, the monotonous tensile experiments with and without stitching are conducted to investigate the influence of stitch reinforcement on the composite laminate. Secondly, the finite element method (FEM) is employed to simulate the tensile process of specimens, and the link element is introduced to simulate the stitching. The experiment results shows that the stitching has little influence on the damage load under monotonous tensile load, while there is a significant influence on the changing of strain. The FEM results are consistent with the experiment results, which means that the link element can be used to study the stitching of the composite laminate. The simulation results also show that the distributions of strain are changed obviously due to the existence of the stitching. Research results have a significant role on the design of the composite structures with and without stitching.