bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of radial osteotomy on the position of the posterior interosseous nerve
Authors: Itamura J. M. , Papadakis S. A. , Ziv E. , Vaishnav S. , Roidis N.
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a radial shaft fracture would decrease the protection provided to the posterior interosseous nerve by the pronation maneuver during posterolateral exploration. The position of the nerve in 14 cadaveric elbows, before and after a radial osteotomy, was determined using CT scans in full supination and full pronation after injection of the nerve with radio-opaque dye. The angle formed by the olecranon, radial head and posterior interosseous nerve, and the distance between the nerve and the most lateral aspect of the radial head were measured.Pronation increased the distance between the lateral radial head and the nerve by a mean of 6.5 mm (range 3.6–10.7). After radial osteotomy, the mean increase was 4.2 mm (range 1.0–8.3), difference 2.3 mm ( p = 0.044, 95% CI 0.10 to 3.33). The posterolateral approach requires additional care in the presence of a radial shaft fracture, but pronation is still beneficial.
Age- and gender-specific normative data of pinch strengths in a healthy Turkish population
Authors: Ugurlu Ü. , Özdogan H.
Published: November 2011

It has been demonstrated that normative data of pinch strengths (PSs) vary among healthy populations. Data from 838 participants (420 women and 418 men) aged 15–96 years were analyzed to develop normative data of PSs for a healthy Turkish population and to analyze changes in the means according to the physical demands of participants’ jobs. Lateral, palmar, and tip-to-tip pinch strengths were measured in standard manners. Occupations were classified based on the descriptions in the Dictionary of Occupational Titles. Mean PSs peaked between the ages of 30–50 years in general and increased a small amount in parallel with the increasing strength ratings of the occupations. PS changes followed a curvilinear relationship to age. The differences between our findings and those of similar studies in this field emphasize the importance of using normative data specific to a particular population.
Comparison of the holding capacity of round monofilament, round multifilament, and flat multifilament nitinol suture loops in human cadaveric flexor tendon
Authors: Karjalainen T. , He M. , Chong A. K. S. , Lim A. Y. T. , Göransson H. , Ryhänen J.
Published: November 2011

Tendon repairs done with strong suture materials fail by suture pull out. To avoid pull out, suture loop needs to have a strong grip on the tendon. The aim of this study was to determine whether a single suture loop has a better grip of the tendon when multifilament or flat sutures are used compared with a conventional monofilament round suture. A cross-locking or simple grasping suture loop was placed into the distal end of a human cadaveric tendon using nitinol wire sutures in the following configurations: round monofilament (200 µm), round multifilament (4 × 100 µm), and flat multifilament (4 × 30 µm × 445 µm). The mean pull-out strength of the round multifilament (49.4 N) and flat multifilament sutures (50.7 N) were significantly higher than that of the round monofilament nitinol suture (36.5 N) when a locking loop was used. Suture grip can be improved by using a multifilament suture and a locking type of suture configuration.
The Dark Triad and Interpersonal Perception: Similarities and Differences in the Social Consequences of Narcissism, Machiavellianism, and Psychopathy
Authors: Rauthmann John F.
Published: November 2011

The subclinical Dark Triad traits narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy ( Paulhus & Williams, 2002 ) are related to antagonistic behaviors in interpersonal situations. The current study addresses whether these three traits entail different social consequences by investigating self-ratings, ratings of others, and ratings by others for the Dark Triad. In a naturalistic setting, 93 informal, minimally acquainted student dyads worked briefly on a cooperative task and subsequently provided self- and other- ratings on the Big Five and intelligence, self-ratings on the Dark Triad, and ratings on properties of the interaction. Overall, narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy manifested differently: profile analyses indicated that Machiavellians diverged from narcissists and psychopaths in self-ratings, ratings of others, and ratings by others, while narcissists and psychopaths converged to a moderate degree. Findings are discussed regarding the distinction of the Dark Triad traits.
Sex, “Lies,” and Videotape
Authors: Stinson Danu Anthony , Gaucher Danielle , Wood Joanne V. , Reddoch Lisa B. , Holmes John G. , Little Douglas C. G.
Published: November 2011

When presenting themselves to others, people attempt to create the impression that they possess socially desired traits. Verbally claiming to possess such traits is relatively simple, but making good on one’s promises by actually behaving in kind is more challenging. In particular, lower self-esteem individuals’ relational insecurity may undermine their ability to present themselves in a socially desired manner. The present research used a behavioral coding method to test these hypotheses. Participants filmed a brief introductory video in an evaluative, first impression situation. Independent sets of observers then coded participants’ verbal, nonverbal, and global self-presentations on two dimensions: communion/femininity and agency/masculinity. Results revealed that for both sexes, self-esteem was unrelated to participants’ ability to “talk the talk” by verbally describing themselves in a socially valued and gender-role specific manner, but was predictive of participants’ ability to “walk the walk” by actually behaving in kind.
Influence of bainite morphology on impact toughness of continuously cooled cementite free bainitic steels
Authors: Caballero F G , Roelofs H , Hasler St , Capdevila C , Chao J , Cornide J , Garcia-Mateo C
Published: November 2011

The influence of bainite morphology on the impact toughness behaviour of continuously cooled cementite free low carbon bainitic steels has been examined. In these steels, bainitic microstructures formed mainly by lath-like upper bainite, consisting of thin and long parallel ferrite laths, were shown to exhibit higher impact toughness values than those with a granular bainite, consisting of equiaxed ferrite structure and discrete island of martensite/austenite constituent. Results suggest that the mechanism of brittle fracture of cementite free bainitic steels involves the nucleation of microcracks in martensite/austenite islands but is controlled by the bainite packet size.
Application of artificial neural network to predict flow stress of as quenched A357 alloy
Authors: Yang X W , Zhu J C , Lai Z H , Kong Y R , Zhao R D , He D
Published: November 2011

In order to establish an accurate thermal stress mathematical model of the quenching operation for A357 alloy, isothermal compression tests were performed in the temperature range of 200–500°C and the strain rate range of 0·001–1 s−1 on as quenched A357 (Al–7Si–0·6Mg) alloy. Based on the experimental results, the deformation behaviour of as quenched A357 alloy was investigated in terms of artificial neural network with a back propagation learning algorithm. Using the deformation temperature, strain rate and strain were used as inputs, and flow stress was used as the output in the network. The average absolute relative error between the predicted results that used the back propagation network and the experimental data obtained from compression tests is 2·89, which indicates that this artificial neural network model is able to predict the flow stress with high precision. Therefore, it can be used as an accurate thermal stress model to solve the problems of quench distortion of parts.
Particle distribution in metal matrix composites fabricated by accumulative roll bonding
Authors: Reihanian M , Bagherpour E , Paydar M H
Published: November 2011

An analytical model is developed to predict the critical strain to get a uniform distribution of particles in metal matrix composites produced by accumulative roll bonding. The model considers composites containing both single and bimodal sized particles (including micro- and nanometre particles). The effect of particle size, particle volume fraction and initial thickness of the layers is considered by the model. Results show that among all the parameters, particle size has the most significant effect on the critical strain. To verify the model, an Al/SiCp composite is fabricated by accumulative roll bonding. Scanning electron micrographs reveal that after eight cycles (an equivalent strain of 6·4), a composite with a well distributed SiC particle is produced, which confirms the results of the model.
Full homogenisation response of Ni3Al based alloy containing Cr, Mo, Zr and B
Authors: Motejadded H B , Soltanieh M , Rastegari S
Published: November 2011

Full homogenisation behaviour of a Ni3Al based alloy containing Cr, Mo, Zr and B was investigated. At the as cast condition, the microstructure of this alloy consists of a γ solid solution γ′(Ni3Al) and a low melting point structure. At first, the low melting point structure, which is detrimental for full homogenisation process, was eliminated by annealing the specimens at 1100°C. After this prerequisite process, based on differential thermal analysis results, 1260°C was determined for the full homogenisation annealing temperature. The results showed that this alloy cannot be fully homogenised without the formation of locally melted regions. In order to explain the mechanism of this local melting phenomenon during full homogenisation treatment, some heating cycles were performed at 1200 and 1240°C. A scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis was used for introducing the local melting (incipient melting) mechanism. It was found that the difference in zirconium solubility limit in the γ and γ′ phases is the main reason for the negative response to full homogenisation treatment.
Toughness improvement in coarse grain heat affected zone of X70 pipeline steel by accelerated cooling
Authors: Li C W , Wang Y , Han T
Published: November 2011

For in-service welding, a large amount of heat loss through the pipe wall is created by the flowing gas, resulting in accelerated cooling of the weld. In the present paper, the thermal simulated specimens were used to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties in coarse grain heat affected zone (CGHAZ) of in-service welding X70 pipeline steel. The simulated results indicate that the embrittlement phenomenon in the CGHAZ is not serious for X70 pipeline steel at cryogenic temperature by accelerated cooling. Microstructure analysis suggests that the improvements in CGHAZ toughness can be explained not only by the amount of martensite–austenite constituents, but also by the presence of austenite films. From all the results obtained, a mechanism for toughness improvement among CGHAZs is proposed and discussed.
Mechanical properties of Nb based multiphase alloy studied by nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy
Authors: Wei W Q , Wang H W , Zou C M , Zhu Z J , Wei Z J
Published: November 2011

The mechanical properties and deformation behaviours of as cast and heat treated Nb–21Ti–4C– xAl ( x: 0, 5, 10 and 15 at-) alloys are comprehensively investigated using nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy. For the Nb–21Ti–4C alloy, nanoindentation tests are performed for the Nb solid solution (Nbss) matrix, carbide and the interface between them. The results show that the hard carbide, which has a strong bonding with the Nbss matrix, can enhance the alloy before and after heat treatment, and the eutectoid transformation of the large sized carbide after heat treatment leads to less possibility for the forming of cracks on the carbide surface, which in turn improves the toughness. For the Nb–21Ti–4C–(0, 5, 10, 15)Al alloys, the hardness of the Nbss matrix increases significantly with increasing Al fraction for both as cast and heat treated alloys. However, deviations of the elastic modulus are inconspicuous with the Al fraction for the as cast and heat treated alloys.
Heat treating of a ring rolled Ni–Fe–Cr superalloy
Authors: Covarrubias O , Elizarrarás O , Kruger K L , Colás R
Published: November 2011

Haynes HR-120 alloy (UNS N08120) is a nickel–iron–chromium alloy that exhibits high strength at elevated temperature and resistance to carburising and sulphidising environments. These properties make this alloy suitable for the production of components of land based turbines, including rings. Manufacture and heat treating of such rings require strict control of the processing variables, such as temperature and deformation ratios, as well as the time and temperature of the solution treatment, due to their effect on microstructure and mechanical properties. It is common practice to treat this alloy at temperatures above 1100°C to promote dissolution of undesired particles and recrystallisation of deformed structures, but it has been found that grain coarsening can occur during treatment. The present work presents the results of a series of solution heat treatments that were performed within a broad range of temperatures on industrial ring rolled pieces. It was found that the increment in time and temperature enhances the dissolution of intergranular precipitates that result in the improvement of mechanical properties, but grain coarsening is observed to occur when the material is treated for long times and high temperatures. The best combination of mechanical properties and grain size was obtained by treating the material for half an hour at 1050°C.
Experimental analysis of mechanisms related to white layer formation during hard turning of AISI 52100 bearing steel
Authors: Umbrello D , Rotella G
Published: November 2011

Microstructural phase transformations, commonly named white layer on hard turned components, are becoming one of the most interesting research subjects for the scientific community. Three main theories have been proposed to justify the mechanisms of white layer formation: rapid heating and quenching, which results in sudden microstructural phase transformation; severe plastic deformation, which produces a homogenous structure and/or a very fine grain size microstructure; and surface reaction with the environment. The present work aims to understand which of the above mentioned mechanisms is the main cause of the white layer formation when AISI 52100 hardened steel is machined by cubic boron nitride inserts. For this reason, an experimental campaign was carried out, and several experimental techniques were used in order to analyse the machined surface. In particular, optical and scanning electron microscope were utilised for surface topography characterisation, while microstructural phase composition and chemical characterisation have been performed by means of X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy techniques. The experimental results prove that the white layer is the result of microstructural alteration, i.e. the generation of a martensitic structure.
Acoustic emission monitoring of split formation during Charpy impact testing of high strength steel
Authors: Kostryzhev A G , Punch R B , Davis C L , Strangwood M
Published: November 2011

Acoustic emission (AE) monitoring has been used to detect split formation during room temperature low blow Charpy impact testing of high strength thick strip steels. The AE signal analysis identified separate signals originating from hammer impact, plastic deformation (verified using Charpy impact testing on mild steel with no splits) and split initiation/growth. The presence of splits was confirmed by sectioning and fractography, and the splits were brittle in nature. A possible correlation between the AE signal features and fracture mode is presented.
Development of peening technique using recirculating shot accelerated by water jet
Authors: Naito A , Takakuwa O , Soyama H
Published: November 2011

The present paper demonstrates the development of a peening technique using recirculating shot accelerated by a water jet that can be used as a risk free treatment in power and chemical plants. Although it is important to increase the reliability of structural materials used in large scale structures, such as power and chemical plants, it is hazardous to treat these structures by general shot peening (SP) techniques because of the risk of sparks and dust explosions. In the present study, an SP technique using a water jet to accelerate shot has been developed, and the conditions under which it is used have been optimised in terms of nozzle geometry, standoff distance and amount of shot. In order to demonstrate the effect of SP, austenitic stainless steel Japan Industries Standards SUS316L was peened and evaluated in terms of its residual stress, fatigue strength and resistance to stress corrosion cracking.
Simulation of precipitation of secondary carbides in hot work tool steels
Authors: Frisk K
Published: November 2011

Precipitation of secondary carbides in hot work tool steels during tempering heat treatments has been investigated using simulations based on a thermodynamic description coupled with kinetic parameters through multicomponent nucleation and growth models. The simulations reproduce the measured effects of steel composition on the precipitation of secondary carbides. Both Si and V increase the volume fraction of fine secondary carbides precipitated during tempering provided that the austenitising temperature is adjusted to give the same fraction of retained primary carbides. The most important effect of Si in 5Cr steels is its influence on the primary carbide stability at austenitisation temperatures, but increasing the V contents has a strong effect on the fraction of secondary carbides, without increasing the size, and can thus improve the yield strength. The most critical input to the calculations is the thermodynamic description of the individual phases.
Challenges in the quantification of high temperature erosive wear
Authors: Graça S , Hadad M , Hoffmann P
Published: November 2011

Relevant quantification issues of high temperature solid particle erosion (HTSPE) are investigated on steel and thermally sprayed Cr3C2–25NiCr. Important physical parameters of HTSPE tests, such as alumina particle size (average diameter 232 μm), temperature (985°C), speed (64 m s−1), feedrate (114 g min−1) and sample temperature (650°C), are kept constant, whereas the particle impingement angle (30 and 60°) is varied in a simple experimental set-up. The determining criterion for quantifying erosion is volume loss. Oxidation and embedment of erodent particles in the material surface, transforming the material and/or invalidating the wear quantification, are detectable by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and backscattered electron analysis in a scanning electron microscope. Particle embedment seems to have a stronger contribution to the wear quantification than surface oxidation and significantly affects the high temperature erosion performance of the tested materials.
Surface coatings of super light magnesium–lithium alloys
Authors: Lin H C , Wang P C , Wu T F , Lin M C , Yeh M T , Lin K M
Published: November 2011

The Mg–Li alloys with Li content of 5–11 mass- will exhibit a dual phase structure of α (hcp) and β (bcc) phases. These dual phase Mg–Li alloys have excellent formability, as well as extra low density. However, the Mg–Li alloys still have disadvantages of poor corrosion and wear resistance. In the present study, the AlN films deposited on Mg–Li alloy by radio frequency magnetron sputtering were investigated. The microstructure, surface morphology and corrosion resistance of the AlN films were examined by means of X-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, and potentiodynamic polarisation. Experimental results show that deposited AlN films exhibit an amorphous structure, which can effectively improve the corrosion resistance of Mg–Li alloy. Meanwhile, the sputtering parameters, such as the radiofrequency power and working pressure, are found to have significant effects on the corrosion behaviour of deposited AlN films on Mg–Li alloy.
Effect of silicon content in grain refining hypoeutectic Al–Si foundry alloys with boron and titanium additions
Authors: Birol Y
Published: November 2011

The effect of Si content on the grain refinement of hypoeutectic Al–Si alloys was investigated. Alloying with Si refines the grain structure, which tends to be coarse and columnar in commercially pure aluminium. The smallest grain size occurs at ∼2 wt-Si, where the solidification interval of hypoeutectic Al–Si alloys is the largest. Grains become increasingly coarser with increasing Si starting from this point. The grains of Al–Si alloys with 500 ppm Ti are smaller than those cast without Ti regardless of the Si content of the alloy. The fivefold reduction in grain size in commercially pure aluminium upon Ti addition is gradually reduced with increasing Si. Finally, the grain refinement provided by Ti fails to meet the expectations once Ti starts to be removed from the melt via the formation of Ti–Si compounds above 5 wt-Si. The B addition relies on the formation of AlB2 particles to offer grain refinement. Analysis of the Al rich corner of the calculated Al–Si–B liquidus surface suggests that the primary AlB2 is formed at a Si concentration of ∼4 wt-. While a perfect grain refiner for hypoeutectic Al–Si alloys with at least 4 wt-Si, B fails to refine the grain structure when the Si content is less.
Intergranular microstructure in magnesium based die cast AE alloys
Authors: Wei K , Wei L-Y , Warren R
Published: November 2011

A systematic investigation of the microstructures of a series of magnesium based die cast magnesium–aluminium–rare earth (RE) alloys has been performed using X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The alloys had an aluminium content of 3–4 wt- and RE content of between 0·6 and 3·5 wt-. The alloys were studied in the as cast condition and after aging at 200 and 250°C. Three kinds of binary aluminium–RE phases were found in the alloys existing intergranularly. Al11RE3 was the predominant intergranular phase. In addition, Al3RE and Al2RE phases were found in the alloys with high RE content. The Al3RE phase became unstable when the alloy was aged at 200°C, while the Al11RE3 phase remained stable at 250°C. In alloys with a RE/aluminium weight ratio of <0·6, primary Al12Mg17 and aluminium enriched zones existed at the grain boundaries beside the Al11RE3 phase, both of which are considered to contribute to the reduction in creep resistance. The aluminium enriched zone transformed into Al12Mg17 precipitates when the alloys were aged. Therefore, to achieve improved creep resistance in Mg–Al–RE alloys, the RE/Al ratio should exceed 0·6.
Strength evaluation of α and β phases by nanoindentation in Ti–15Mo alloys with Fe and Al addition
Authors: Min X H , Zhang L , Sekido K , Ohmura T , Emura S , Tsuchiya K , Tsuzaki K
Published: November 2011

The strengths of the α precipitate and the β matrix were evaluated by nanohardness in the Ti−15Mo−1Fe and Ti−15Mo−3Al alloys and compared to those of the Ti−15Mo alloy. The α phases with similar size (a long axis of a few micrometres and a short axis of a few hundred nanometres), distribution and volume fraction were obtained in three alloys by adjusting the aging temperature. Analyses by SEM-EDS confirmed that Fe and Mo were enriched in the β phase and depleted in the α phase, while Al was enriched in the α phase and depleted in the β phase. Tensile tests were carried out, and the tensile strength was shown to be higher in the Ti−15Mo−1Fe and Ti−15Mo−3Al alloys than in the Ti−15Mo alloy. The nanohardness measurements indicated that the α phase was softer than the β phase in both Ti−15Mo−1Fe and Ti−15Mo alloys, while it was harder in the Ti−15Mo−3Al alloy. The increased tensile strength was mainly caused by the strength of the Fe enriched β phase in the Ti−15Mo−1Fe alloy and by the strength of the Al enriched α phase in the Ti−15Mo−3Al alloy.
Performance of AlTi5B1, AlTi3B3 and AlB3 master alloys in refining grain structure of aluminium foundry alloys
Authors: Birol Y
Published: November 2011

The capacity of AlTi5B1, AlTi3B3 and AlB3 grain refiners to refine the grain structures of AlSi7Mg and AlSi11Cu2 foundry alloys was investigated. The performance of AlTi5B1, well established to be the best grain refiner for wrought aluminium alloys, is not nearly as good with the AlSi7Mg and AlSi11Cu2 alloys. Relatively smaller grains are obtained with the AlTi3B3 grain refiner in both alloys. The AlB3 grain refiner, on the other hand, improves the grain structure only as much as the AlTi5B1 grain refiner does. With as much as 0·04–0·1 wt-Ti, the commercial alloys cannot enjoy the outstanding potency of the AlB2 particles since the B supply is readily transformed to TiB2 particles. However, the grains of the Ti free AlSi7Mg and AlSi11Cu2 alloys (∼0·005 wt-Ti) are very small and nearly globular for the entire range of holding times when inoculated with AlB3, implying not only a remarkable grain refining capacity but also a strong resistance to fading of the grain refinement effect. The lack of Ti in the melt allows the entire B to form AlB2 particles, the perfect substrates to promote the nucleation of α-Al crystals. Aluminium castings can enjoy grain sizes well below 200 μm, with an addition of 0·02 wt-B, provided that they are Ti free. That the potent substrates are made available just before the nucleation of α-Al crystals avoids fading effects and is a further advantage of the AlB3 grain refiner in recycling operations.
Influence of directionality on strength and impact behaviour of high strength steels
Authors: Maina E , Crowther D N , Banerjee J R , Mintz B
Published: November 2011

The directionality of the strength and impact behaviour of control rolled 110 grade high strength steel has been examined. Tensile specimens tested along the rolling direction were found to give strengths of ∼60 MPa lower than when tested transversely in the rolling direction. Charpy V notch impact samples, in contrast, gave lower impact transition temperatures when taken in the rolling direction (35°C lower). The difference in strength between the two directions is believed to be mainly as a result of the strong texture produced on control rolling. The difference in impact behaviour is due to the more severe fissuring on the fracture surface of the longitudinally tested specimens. Fissuring is more marked on the longitudinally tested sample because of the greater grain elongation in that direction, the initial fracture path being along the grain boundaries.
Parameter determination of critical nucleation frequency in solidification of undercooled metallic melts
Authors: Xu J F , Liu F , Song S J , Zhang K
Published: November 2011

A simple method was proposed to calculate the essential parameters correlated with the critical nucleation frequency of undercooled metals and alloy melt. Numerical results show that the calculation accuracy from this method can be improved using the experimental data either with high undercooling or with low undercooling range (the difference of undercoolings between two solidification events). The calculations of the interfacial energy for high undercooling of silver and of the catalytic factor f( θ) for high undercooling of Al, Cu and Al–30 wt-Cu alloy indicate that the results are consistent with the experimental measurements and with the results of Jian's model [Metall. Trans. A, 2001, 32A, 391–395]. In addition, by analysing the differential scanning calorimetry data of pure Sn subjected to different cooling rates, similar values of catalytic factor f( θ) are obtained. This further indicates the validity of the current method.
Crystallography of Mg2Sn precipitates with two newly observed orientation relationships in an Mg–Sn–Mn alloy
Authors: Shi Z-Z , Dai F-Z , Zhang W-Z
Published: November 2011

Two new orientation relationships between β-Mg2Sn precipitates and α-Mg matrix have been observed by transmission electron microscopy. One is (1 1 0) β//(0 0 0 1) α, [0 0 1] β//[1 −1 0 0] α, and the other is (1 1 0) β//(0 0 0 1) α, [−1 1 −1] β//[1 −1 0 0] α. The precipitates with both orientation relationships exhibit a lath shaped morphology, with the long axis lying along [1 1 −2 0] α. The morphology is interpreted by a three-dimensional near coincidence sites model.
Regulation of MMP-3 expression and secretion by the chemokine eotaxin-1 in human chondrocytes
Authors: Chao Pin-Zhir , Hsieh Ming-Shium , Cheng Chao-Wen , Lin Yung-Feng , Chen Chien-Ho
Published: November 2011

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by the degradation of articular cartilage, marked by the breakdown of matrix proteins. Studies demonstrated the involvement of chemokines in this process, and some may potentially serve as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets; however, the underlying signal transductions are not well understood.

Methods

We investigated the effects of the CC chemokine eotaxin-1 (CCL11) on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and secretion in the human chondrocyte cell line SW1353 and primary chondrocytes.

Results

Eotaxin-1 significantly induced MMP-3 mRNA expression in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibitors of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 kinase were able to repress eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. On the contrary, Rp-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate (Rp-cAMPs), a competitive cAMP antagonist for cAMP receptors, and H-89, a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, markedly enhanced eotaxin-1-induced MMP-3 expression. These results suggest that MMP-3 expression is specifically mediated by the G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Interestingly, little amount of MMP-3 protein was detected in the cell lysates of eotaxin-1-treated SW1353 cells, and most of MMP-3 protein was in the culture media. Furthermore we found that the eotaxin-1-dependent MMP-3 protein secretion was regulated by phospholipase C (PLC)-protein kinase C (PKC) cascade and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)/mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. These data indicate a specific regulation of MMP-3 secretion also by eotaxin-1 receptor activities.

Conclusions

Eotaxin-1 not only induces MMP-3 gene expression but also promotes MMP-3 protein secretion through G protein-coupled eotaxin-1 receptor activities. Chemokines, such as eotaxin-1, could be a potential candidate in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis.
High frequency of known copy number abnormalities and maternal duplication 15q11-q13 in patients with combined schizophrenia and epilepsy
Authors: Stewart Larissa R , Hall April L , Kang Sung-Hae L , Shaw Chad A , Beaudet Arthur L
Published: November 2011

Background

Many copy number variants (CNVs) are documented to be associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, including intellectual disability, autism, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Chromosomal deletions of 1q21.1, 3q29, 15q13.3, 22q11.2, andNRXN1and duplications of 15q11-q13 (maternal), 16p11, and 16p13.3 have the strongest association with schizophrenia. We hypothesized that cases with both schizophrenia and epilepsy would have a higher frequency of disease-associated CNVs and would represent an enriched sample for detection of other mutations associated with schizophrenia.

Methods

We used array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) to analyze 235 individuals with both schizophrenia and epilepsy, 80 with bipolar disorder and epilepsy, and 191 controls.

Results

We detected 10 schizophrenia plus epilepsy cases in 235 (4.3%) with the above mentioned CNVs compared to 0 in 191 controls (p = 0.003). Other likely pathological findings in schizophrenia plus epilepsy cases included 1 deletion 16p13 and 1 duplication 7q11.23 for a total of 12/235 (5.1%) while a possibly pathogenic duplication of 22q11.2 was found in one control for a total of 1 in 191 (0.5%) controls (p = 0.008). The rate of abnormality in the schizophrenia plus epilepsy of 10/235 for the more definite CNVs compares to a rate of 75/7336 for these same CNVs in a series of unselected schizophrenia cases (p = 0.0004).

Conclusion

We found a statistically significant increase in the frequency of CNVs known or likely to be associated with schizophrenia in individuals with both schizophrenia and epilepsy compared to controls. We found an overall 5.1% detection rate of likely pathological findings which is the highest frequency of such findings in a series of schizophrenia patients to date. This evidence suggests that the frequency of disease-associated CNVs in patients with both schizophrenia and epilepsy is significantly higher than for unselected schizophrenia.
The influence of childhood IQ and education on social mobility in the Newcastle Thousand Families birth cohort
Authors: Forrest Lynne F , Hodgson Susan , Parker Louise , Pearce Mark S
Published: November 2011

Background

It has been suggested that social, educational, cultural and physical factors in childhood and early adulthood may influence the chances and direction of social mobility, the movement of an individual between social classes over his/her life-course. This study examined the association of such factors with intra-generational and inter-generational social mobility within the Newcastle Thousand Families 1947 birth cohort.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the potential association of sex, housing conditions at age 5 years, childhood IQ, achieved education level, adult height and adverse events in early childhood with upward and downward social mobility.

Results

Childhood IQ and achieved education level were significantly and independently associated with upward mobility between the ages of 5 and 49-51 years. Only education was significantly associated (positively) with upward social mobility between 5 and 25 years, and only childhood IQ (again positively) with upward social mobility between 25 and 49-51 years. Childhood IQ was significantly negatively associated with downward social mobility. Adult height, childhood housing conditions, adverse events in childhood and sex were not significant determinants of upward or downward social mobility in this cohort.

Conclusions

As upward social mobility has been associated with better health as well as more general benefits to society, supportive measures to improve childhood circumstances that could result in increased IQ and educational attainment may have long-term population health and wellbeing benefits.
Public perception on the role of community pharmacists in self-medication and self-care in Hong Kong
Authors: You Joyce H , Wong Fiona Y , Chan Frank W , Wong Eliza L , Yeoh Eng-kiong
Published: November 2011

Background

The choices for self-medication in Hong Kong are much diversified, including western and Chinese medicines and food supplements. This study was to examine Hong Kong public knowledge, attitudes and behaviours regarding self-medication, self-care and the role of pharmacists in self-care.

Methods

A cross-sectional phone survey was conducted, inviting people aged 18 or older to complete a 37-item questionnaire that was developed based on the Thematic Household surveys in Hong Kong, findings of the health prorfessional focus group discussions on pharmacist-led patient self management and literature. Telephone numbers were randomly selected from residential phone directories. Trained interviewers invited eligible persons to participate using the "last birthday method". Associations of demographic characteristics with knowledge, attitudes and beliefs on self-medication, self-care and role of pharmacists, and spending on over-the-counter (OTC) products were analysed statistically.

Results

A total of 1, 560 phone calls were successfully made and 1, 104 respondents completed the survey which indicated a response rate of 70.8%. 63.1% had adequate knowledge on using OTC products. Those who had no formal education/had attended primary education (OR = 3.19, 95%CI 1.78-5.72; p < 0.001), had attended secondary education (OR = 1.50, 95%CI 1.03-2.19; p = 0.035), and aged ≥60 years (OR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.02-3.26; p = 0.042) were more likely to have inadequate knowledge on self-medication. People with chronic disease also tended to spend more than HKD100 on western (OR = 3.58, 95%CI 1.58-8.09; p = 0.002) and Chinese OTC products (OR = 2.94, 95%CI 1.08-7.95; p = 0.034). 94.6% believed that patients with chronic illnesses should self-manage their diseases. 68% agreed that they would consult a pharmacist before using OTC product but only 45% agreed that pharmacists could play a leading role in self-care. Most common reasons against pharmacist consultation on self-medication and self-care were uncertainty over the role of pharmacists and low acceptance level of pharmacists.

Conclusions

The majority of respondents supported patients with chronic illness to self-manage their diseases but less than half agreed to use a pharmacist-led approach in self-care. The government should consider developing doctors-pharmacists partnership programs in the community, enhancing the role of pharmacists in primary care and providing education to patients to improve their awareness on the role of pharmacists in self-medication and self-care.
Use of a pLDH-based dipstick in the diagnostic and therapeutic follow-up of malaria patients in Mali
Authors: Ouattara Amed , Doumbo Safiatou , Saye Renion , Beavogui Abdoul H , Traoré Boubacar , Djimdé Abdoulaye , Niangaly Amadou , Kayentao Kassoum , Diallo Mouctar , Doumbo Ogobara K , Thera Mahamadou A
Published: November 2011

Background

Malaria is a major public health problem in Mali and diagnosis is typically based on microscopy. Microscopy requires a well trained technician, a reliable power source, a functioning microscope and adequate supplies. The scarcity of resources of community health centres (CHC) does not allow for such a significant investment in only one aspect of malaria control. In this context, Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) may improve case management particularly in remote areas.

Methods

This multicentre study included 725 patients simultaneously screened with OptiMal-IT test and thick smears for malaria parasite detection. While evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of choroquine in 2 study sites, we compared the diagnostic values of thick smear microscopy to OptiMal-IT test applying the WHO 14 days follow-up scheme using samples collected from 344 patients.

Results

The sensitivity and the specificity of OptiMal-IT compared to thick smear was 97.2% and 95.4%, whereas the positive and negative predictive values were 96.7 and 96.1%, respectively. The percent agreement between the two diagnostic tests was 0.93. The two tests were comparable in detecting malaria at day 0, day 3 and day 14. The only difference was observed at day 7 due to high gametocytemia. Subjectively, health care providers found OptiMal-IT easier to use and store under field conditions.

Conclusion

OptiMal-IT test revealed similar results when compared to microscopy which is considered the gold standard for malaria diagnostics. The test was found to have a short processing time and was easier to use. These advantages may improve malaria case management by providing a diagnostic and drug efficacy follow-up tool to peripheral health centres with limited resources.
Annealing of gold nanostructures sputtered on polytetrafluoroethylene
Authors: Siegel Jakub , Krajcar Robert , Kolská Zdeňka , Hnatowicz Vladimír , Švorčík Václav
Published: November 2011

Gold nanolayers sputtered on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) surface and their changes induced by post-deposition annealing at 100°C to 300°C are studied. Changes in surface morphology and roughness are examined by atomic force microscopy, electrical sheet resistance by two point technique, zeta potential by electrokinetic analysis and chemical composition by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in dependence on the gold layer thickness. Transition from discontinuous to continuous gold coverage takes place at the layer thicknesses 10 to 15 nm and this threshold remains practically unchanged after the annealing at the temperatures below 200°C. The annealing at 300°C, however, leads to significant rearrangement of the gold layer and the transition threshold increases to 70 nm. Significant carbon contamination and the presence of oxidized structures on gold-coated samples are observed in XPS spectra. Gold coating leads to a decrease in the sample surface roughness. Annealing at 300°C of pristine PTFE and gold-coated PTFE results in significant increase of the sample surface roughness.
Endometrial cancer - reduce to the minimum. A new paradigm for adjuvant treatments?
Authors: Scheithauer Heike R , Schulz Diana S , Belka Claus
Published: November 2011

Background

Up to now, the role of adjuvant radiation therapy and the extent of lymph node dissection for early stage endometrial cancer are controversial. In order to clarify the current position of the given adjuvant treatment options, a systematic review was performed.

Materials and methods

Both, Pubmed and ISI Web of Knowledge database were searched using the following keywords and MESH headings: "Endometrial cancer", "Endometrial Neoplasms", "Endometrial Neoplasms/radiotherapy", "External beam radiation therapy", "Brachytherapy" and adequate combinations.

Conclusion

Recent data from randomized trials indicate that external beam radiation therapy - particularly in combination with extended lymph node dissection - or radical lymph node dissection increases toxicity without any improvement of overall survival rates. Thus, reduced surgical aggressiveness and limitation of radiotherapy to vaginal-vault-brachytherapy only is sufficient for most cases of early stage endometrial cancer.
Dantrolene is neuroprotective in Huntington's disease transgenic mouse model
Authors: Chen Xi , Wu Jun , Lvovskaya Svetlana , Herndon Emily , Supnet Charlene , Bezprozvanny Ilya
Published: November 2011

Background

Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder caused by a polyglutamine expansion in the Huntingtin protein which results in the selective degeneration of striatal medium spiny neurons (MSNs). Our group has previously demonstrated that calcium (Ca2+) signaling is abnormal in MSNs from the yeast artificial chromosome transgenic mouse model of HD (YAC128). Moreover, we demonstrated that deranged intracellular Ca2+ signaling sensitizes YAC128 MSNs to glutamate-induced excitotoxicity when compared to wild type (WT) MSNs. In previous studies we also observed abnormal neuronal Ca2+ signaling in neurons from spinocerebellar ataxia 2 (SCA2) and spinocerebellar ataxia 3 (SCA3) mouse models and demonstrated that treatment with dantrolene, a ryanodine receptor antagonist and clinically relevant Ca2+ signaling stabilizer, was neuroprotective in experiments with these mouse models. The aim of the current study was to evaluate potential beneficial effects of dantrolene in experiments with YAC128 HD mouse model.

Results

The application of caffeine and glutamate resulted in increased Ca2+ release from intracellular stores in YAC128 MSN cultures when compared to WT MSN cultures. Pre-treatment with dantrolene protected YAC128 MSNs from glutamate excitotoxicty, with an effective concentration of 100 nM and above. Feeding dantrolene (5 mg/kg) twice a week to YAC128 mice between 2 months and 11.5 months of age resulted in significantly improved performance in the beam-walking and gait-walking assays. Neuropathological analysis revealed that long-term dantrolene feeding to YAC128 mice significantly reduced the loss of NeuN-positive striatal neurons and reduced formation of Httexp nuclear aggregates.

Conclusions

Our results support the hypothesis that deranged Ca2+ signaling plays an important role in HD pathology. Our data also implicate the RyanRs as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of HD and demonstrate that RyanR inhibitors and Ca2+ signaling stabilizers such as dantrolene should be considered as potential therapeutics for the treatment of HD and other polyQ-expansion disorders.
Screening and control of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in 186 intensive care units: different situations and individual solutions
Authors: Kohlenberg Anke , Schwab Frank , Behnke Michael , Geffers Christine , Gastmeier Petra
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Controversy exists about the benefit of screening for prevention of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in intensive care units (ICUs) and recent studies have shown conflicting results. The aim of this observational study was to describe and evaluate the association between MRSA incidence densities (IDs) and screening and control measures in ICUs participating in the German Nosocomial Infection Surveillance System.

Methods

The surveillance module for multidrug-resistant bacteria collects data on MRSA cases in ICUs with the aim to provide a national reference and a tool for evaluation of infection control management. The median IDs of MRSA cases per 1000 patient-days (pd) with the interquartile range (IQR) were calculated from the pooled data of 186 ICUs and correlated with parameters derived from a detailed questionnaire regarding ICU structure, microbiological diagnostics and MRSA screening and control measures. The association between questionnaire results and MRSA cases was evaluated by generalized linear regression models.

Results

One hundred eighty-six ICUs submitted data on MRSA cases for 2007 and 2008 and completed the questionnaire. During the period of analysis, 4935 MRSA cases occurred in these ICUs; of these, 3928 (79.6%) were imported and 1007 MRSA cases (20.4%) were ICU-acquired. Median MRSA IDs were 3.23 (IQR 1.24-5.73), 2.24 (IQR 0.63-4.30) and 0.64 (IQR 0.17-1.39) per 1000 pd for all cases, imported and ICU-acquired MRSA cases, respectively. MRSA IDs as well as implemented MRSA screening and control measures varied widely between ICUs. ICUs performing universal admission screening had significantly higher MRSA IDs than ICUs performing targeted or no screening. Separate regression models for ICUs with different screening strategies included the incidence of imported MRSA cases, the type of ICU, and the length of stay in independent association with the number of ICU-acquired MRSA cases.

Conclusions

The analysis shows that MRSA IDs and structural parameters differ considerably between ICUs. In response, ICUs have combined screening and control measures in many ways to achieve various individual solutions. The incidence of imported MRSA cases might be helpful for consideration in the planning of MRSA control programmes.
Collaborative care for major depressive disorder in an
occupational healthcare setting
Authors: Vlasveld M. C. , van der Feltz-Cornelis C. M. , Adèr H. J. , Anema J. R. , Hoedeman R. , van Mechelen W. , Beekman A. T. F.
Published: November 2011

Randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative
care in a Dutch occupational healthcare setting: 126 workers on sick leave
with major depressive disorder were randomised to usual care
(n = 61) or collaborative care (n =
65). After 3 months, collaborative care was more effective on the primary
outcome measure of treatment response (i.e. reduction in symptoms of ≥50%)
on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). However, the groups did not
differ on the PHQ-9 as a continuous outcome measure. Implications of these
results are discussed.