bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of a standing human body in vertical vibration
Authors: Ji Tianjian , Zhou Ding , Zhang Qingwen
Published: December 2012

Human–structure interaction is a topical issue in the analysis and design of structures subjected to dynamic human loading. However, it is not clear how the human body should be modelled. This paper provides qualitatively accurate models for a standing human body in vertical vibration. These models are derived from a study of human–structure interaction. The derivation is obtained by placing a continuous model of a standing human body on a vibrating structure; this is in contrast to existing body models, which are obtained with a fixed base. These new human body models possess unique characteristics: the whole-body mass contributes to vibration; there is a support mass in the model; there is a mass device that is analogous to a spring or a damper in the body model; and the three-mass model includes the two-mass model. For verification, a continuous standing body model and the two newly developed discrete human body models were placed on a simple structure and eigenvalue analysis was conducted. The close match between the natural frequencies of the models validates the derivation, pattern and definitions of the two discrete human body models in vertical structural vibration.
Effect of hybrid fibre reinforcement on capacity of reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Yi Seong-Tae , Cho Sung Gook
Published: December 2012

This study evaluates the flexural behaviour of reinforced concrete beams strengthened by hybrid fibre reinforcement. Hybrid fibre reinforcement prepared in two ways is considered: using a hybrid fibre sheet and a hybrid fibre plate. Experimental research on the feasibility and applicability of strengthening effects due to hybrid fibre plate and hybrid fibre sheet in reinforced concrete beams has been carried out. Each of control and seven specimens strengthened by hybrid fibre sheet and hybrid fibre plate was tested by four-point bending tests using a hydraulic universal testing machine. For hybrid fibre sheet specimens, debonding between the adhesive and the beam that propagates from the end of the plate has been observed in experiments. According to the test results, reinforced concrete beams strengthened by hybrid fibre reinforcement showed approximately 60–200% higher load capacities and strengths relative to unreinforced specimens. In addition, all reinforced beams showed an ideal failure pattern, with the presentation of ductile behaviour after yielding of the reinforcing bar. More specifically, in the cases of reinforced concrete beams reinforced with hybrid fibre plate, no difference according to the puttying method was apparent, since the hybrid fibre plate-retrofitted reinforced concrete beams reinforced using epoxy injection and adhesive bonding showed similar failure patterns.
Tank costs for domestic rainwater harvesting in East Africa
Authors: Parker Alison , Cruddas Peter , Rowe Nick , Carter Richard , Webster James
Published: December 2012

Rainwater harvesting from hard roofing can provide safe water to meet the basic domestic needs of several hundred million people in low-income countries. However, rainwater harvesting has a higher household cost than other low-technology water supplies such as protected springs. The storage tank is the most expensive part of the infrastructure required for rainwater harvesting: reducing this cost will enable rainwater harvesting to become a viable water source for many more households in low-income countries. This paper assesses the overall costs and different cost components of rainwater storage tanks. Costs are compared across a selection of tanks prefabricated in factories in Uganda, Kenya and the UK and constructed in situ in Uganda. Constructed tanks were always found to be cheaper than prefabricated ones. Tank size was an important factor, and it was found that tank cost per litre decreases as size increases. For all tank types, materials were the greatest cost.
Flood routing in branched river by genetic programming
Authors: Orouji Hossein , Bozorg Haddad Omid , Fallah-Mehdipour Elahe , Mariño Miguel A.
Published: December 2012

Flood routing in branched rivers is an important issue in river engineering. Hydraulic approaches to address the issue involve complex equations that are applied in flood routing with high accuracy but using a lot of data, especially river specifications. In contrast, hydrologic flood routing approaches are simple and employ limited parameters coupled with linear and nonlinear equations based on the continuity equation to route the flood. In the present study, to achieve a routed flood hydrograph considering both accuracy and simplification in the routing process, two hydrologic methods, based on (1) an extended version of the Muskingum method and (2) genetic programming (GP), were applied in a branched river in Iran for 10- and 100-year flood return periods and the results compared with those of the St. Venant equations as a numerical hydraulic method. The results show that GP decreased (improved) the sum of the squared deviation (SSQ) between hydraulic and hydrologic routed outflows by 90·71 and 49·24% compared to the extended Muskingum method for 10- and 100-year flood return periods, respectively, although GP used less input data than the St. Venant equations. There was no considerable difference between GP and St. Venant routed hydrographs. In addition, the GP approach is simple but its application is not restricted to single-reach problems. The present results indicate that the proposed hydrologic method, based on GP, is effective in routing flood hydrographs in branched rivers.
Using auxiliary telemetry information to estimate animal density from capture–recapture data
Authors: Ivan Jacob S. , White Gary C. , Shenk Tanya M.
Published: December 2012

Estimation of animal density is fundamental to ecology, and ecologists often pursue density estimates using grids of detectors (e.g., cameras, live traps, hair snags) to sample animals at a study site. However, under such a framework, reliable estimates can be difficult to obtain because animals move on and off of the site during the sampling session (i.e., the site is not closed geographically). Generally, practitioners address lack of geographic closure by inflating the area sampled by the detectors based on the mean distance individuals moved between trapping events or invoking hierarchical models in which animal density is assumed to be a spatial point process, and detection is modeled as a declining function of distance to a detector. We provide an alternative in which lack of geographic closure is sampled directly using telemetry, and this auxiliary information is used to compute estimates of density based on a modified Huggins closed‐capture estimator. Contrary to other approaches, this method is free from assumptions regarding the distribution and movement of animals on the landscape, the stationarity of their home ranges, and biases induced by abnormal movements in response to baited detectors. The estimator is freely available in Program MARK.
Stepchildren, Community Disadvantage, and Physical Injury in a Child Abuse Incident: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: D’Alessio Stewart J. , Stolzenberg Lisa
Published: December 2012

It is proffered that stepchildren are more likely than genetic children to be physically abused because they are unable to ensure the genetic survival of their adoptive parents. This abuse is theorized to be more pronounced in communities where social and economic resources are scarce. The salience of this cross-level interaction hinges on the assumption that the limited resources of a family are first allocated to genetic offspring because these children, unlike their nongenetic siblings, carry the genes of their parents. A multilevel analysis of child abuse incidents reported to police in 133 U.S. cities during 2005 shows that in cities with a high level of community disadvantage, stepchildren are much more apt than are genetic children to suffer a physical injury in a child abuse incident. Such a finding buttresses the position articulated by proponents of sociobiology.
College Students’ Social Reactions to the Victim in a Hypothetical Sexual Assault Scenario: The Role of Victim and Perpetrator Alcohol Use
Authors: Untied Amy S. , Orchowski Lindsay M. , Mastroleo Nadine , Gidycz Christine A.
Published: December 2012

College students’ responses to a hypothetical sexual assault scenario involving alcohol use by the victim and/or perpetrator were examined (N = 295). Participants reported on victim/perpetrator responsibility, the extent to which the scenario would be considered rape, and their likelihood of providing positive or negative responses to the victim. Compared to women, men indicated that they would provide more negative and less positive social reactions to the victim, were less likely to identify the scenario as rape, and endorsed less perpetrator responsibility. When the victim was drinking, participants endorsed greater victim responsibility and lower perpetrator responsibility for the assault. Participants indicated that they would provide the victim with less emotional support when only the perpetrator was drinking, compared to when both the individuals were drinking.
Respondents’ Experiences of Completing a Retrospective Web-Based, Sexual Trauma Survey: Does a History of Sexual Victimization Equate With Risk for Harm?
Authors: Wager Nadia M.
Published: December 2012

This study investigated respondents’ experiences of completing a retrospective web-based survey exploring sexual revictimization. The original survey provided a link to a separate mixed-methods survey assessing the impact of participation. Of the original 481 respondents, 234 completed this follow-up survey. Eighty percent were female and 52% reported histories of sexual victimization (SV). Newman, Willard, Sinclair, and Kaloupek’s (2001) Reactions to Research Participation Questionnaire was adapted to suit this web-based design, and several open-ended questions were included. The statistical analysis revealed that those who experienced SV reported higher levels of distress and personal benefit and were less likely to be inconvenienced by participation. However, higher levels of benefit did not always compensate for greater levels of distress, particularly for those with more recent and more extensive histories of SV. The thematic analysis of the qualitative responses is discussed and suggestions are offered for the design of more ethically sensitive research protocols and practices.
Epigenetic Mismatches with Mutated Transcribing Genes at Leukemogenic S-Phase Binding/Start Sites – Potential Targets for Therapy with Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Prindull Gregor
Published: December 2012

This review focuses on gene transcription patterns of leukemogenic S-phases in mitotic cell cycles for identification
of enzymatic reactions as potential targets for epigenetics-based drug therapy. Transcription of leukemic genes is
triggered by reprogrammed transcription factors (TFs) mediated by chromatin histones. Reprogrammed TFs originate
from transcriptional alterations of CpG methylation patterns of mutated epigenetic genes. They preserve memory information
of earlier leukemogenic exposures, even transgenerationally via the zygote, through small (e.g. pi)RNA transmitted
between cells by exosomes. Normally, reprogrammed TFs are enzymatically silenced and stored as markers in heterochromatic
domains. Failure of intra S-phase surveillance (IS) permits the formation and continual operation of DNA replication
forks in spite of persisting genotoxic stress. Silenced TFs are re-activated by euchromatin, most likely through
leakages of insulator barriers of cis-regulating chromatin modulators (CRM) that normally separate hetero- from euchromatin
domains. During transport by sliding nucleosomes, reprogrammed leukemogenic TFs are misplaced at transcription
factor binding-/starting-sites (TFBS /TSS) allowing them to interact with and trigger replication of mutated leukemic
genes.

In conclusion: Interactions of enzymatically reprogrammed TFs, transcribed from mutated epigenetic genes, with
replicating leukemic genes at TFBS/TSSs are key driving forces in leukemogenesis. Probably, epigenetic genes, although
mutated, still retain their control of replication of leukemic genes. Epigenetics-based enzyme inhibitors must target reprogrammed
TFs. Prudently, therapeutic corrections should be introduced within the frame of conventional, cytoreductive
treatment protocols. Alternatively, reprogrammed TFs could be replaced by cell populations with regular TF production.
Clinically, classification of leukemias should be based on their epigenetic presentation.
Cancer Stem Cells Stemness Transcription Factors Expression Correlates with Breast Cancer Disease Stage
Authors: Apostolou Panagiotis , Toloudi Maria , Chatziioannou Marina , Ioannou Eleni , Papasotiriou Ioannis
Published: December 2012

Cancer stem cell-like cells (CSCs) are cancer cells that have the ability of self-renewal and differentiation into
multiple malignant cell types (hierarchy). Thus, can cause relapses and metastasis. CSCs’ phenotype is defined by special
transcription factors such as Nanog, Oct3/4, Sox2, Nestin, and CD34. The present study aims to determine the change in
gene expression of the above markers in correlation with the stage of the disease in breast cancer patients. Initially, whole
blood samples from patients with breast cancer were collected, followed by the isolation and culture of circulating tumor
cells (CTCs). This was followed by the quantification of CSCs from the above cultures. CSCs’ molecular analysis was
performed with qPCR, with the use of gene specific primers. At the same time of the analysis, the clinical assessments of
the patients were requested from their physicians. The results indicated a linear relationship between the gene expression
of stemness markers and the stage of the disease, as well as specific expression patterns by stage. It seems that these genes
have an important role in the progression of the disease, thus they might be target for new treatment approaches.
Alternative Splicing Regulation and Cell Lineage Differentiation
Authors: Liu Huan , He Ling , Tang Liling
Published: December 2012

The alternative splicing of precursor mRNA is an essential mechanism for protein diversity. It plays important
biological roles, such as proliferation, differentiation and development of cells. Furthermore, alternative splicing participates
in the pathogenesis of diseases, including cancer. Thus, in-depth understanding of splicing regulation is of great significance.
Regulation of alternative splicing is an extraordinary complicated process in which several signal molecules are
at work. Besides the cis-elements and trans-factors, several lines of evidences suggest that other molecules, structures or
process also regulate splicing, such as RNA structures, transcription and transcription factors, chromatin and protein.
Meanwhile, increasing body of evidence shows that alternative splicing correlated closely to stem cell lineage differentiation.
It means that there is a fundamental role for splicing in controlling regulatory program required for cell lineage differentiation.
This review systematically sums up the regulation of alternative splicing and summarizes the splicing events
during cell lineage differentiation of stem cells.
Processing and nanomechanical properties of chitosan/polyethylene oxide blend films
Authors: Djokic Jelena , Kojovic Aleksandar , Stojanovic Dusica , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Vukovic Goran , Aleksic Radoslav , Uskokovic Petar
Published: December 2012

Chitosan based films have found an increasing implementation in variety of
topics among which as drug delivery carriers, in packaging industry and as
water puritication filters. Therefore, in order to achieve mechanical
integrity of such films while preserving processability and biocompatibility,
chitosan based films are fabricated in forms of blends with polyethylene
oxide (PEO). Nanoindentation study is undertaken in order to investigate
nanomechanical properties and surface morphology of chitosan films in blends
with various content of PEO. Results of differential scanning calorimetry,
water uptake and nanoindentation revealed that films with 80/20 blend ratio
of chitosan/PEO showed the optimal values of reduced modulus and hardness. It
appears that the incorporation of synthetic PEO in chitosan films could lower
the manufacturing cost while preserving the mechanical integrity of the
films.
The optimal production-run time for a stock-dependent imperfect production process
Authors: Jain Divya , Aggarwal Kishor
Published: December 2012

This paper develops an inventory model for a hypothesized volume flexible
manufacturing system in which the production rate is stock-dependent and the
system produces both perfect and imperfect quality items. The demand rate of
perfect quality items is known and constant, whereas the demand rate of
imperfect (non-conforming to specifications) quality items is a function of
discount offered in the selling price. In this paper, we determine an optimal
production-run time and the optimal discount that should be offered in the
selling price to influence the sale of imperfect quality items produced by
the manufacturing system. The considered model aims to maximize the net
profit obtained through the sales of both perfect and imperfect quality items
subject to certain constraints of the system. The solution procedure suggests
the use of ?Interior Penalty Function Method? to solve the associated
constrained maximization problem. Finally, a numerical example demonstrating
the applicability of proposed model has been included.
Rab7 Silencing Prevents μ-Opioid Receptor Lysosomal Targeting and Rescues Opioid Responsiveness to Strengthen Diabetic Neuropathic Pain Therapy
Authors: Mousa Shaaban A. , Shaqura Mohammed , Khalefa Baled I. , Zöllner Christian , Schaad Laura , Schneider Jonas , Shippenberg Toni S. , Richter Jan F. , Hellweg Rainer , Shakibaei Mehdi , Schäfer Michael
Published: December 2012

Painful diabetic neuropathy is poorly controlled by analgesics and requires high doses of opioids, triggering side effects and reducing patient quality of life. This study investigated whether enhanced Rab7-mediated lysosomal targeting of peripheral sensory neuron μ-opioid receptors (MORs) is responsible for diminished opioid responsiveness in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. In diabetic animals, significantly impaired peripheral opioid analgesia was associated with a loss in sensory neuron MOR and a reduction in functional MOR G-protein-coupling. In control animals, MORs were retained mainly on the neuronal cell membrane. In contrast, in diabetic rats, they were colocalized with upregulated Rab7 in LampI-positive perinuclear lysosome compartments. Silencing endogenous Rab7 with intrathecal Rab7-siRNA or, indirectly, by reversing nerve growth factor deprivation in peripheral sensory neurons not only prevented MOR targeting to lysosomes, restoring their plasma membrane density, but also rescued opioid responsiveness toward better pain relief. These findings elucidate in vivo the mechanisms by which enhanced Rab7 lysosomal targeting of MORs leads to a loss in opioid antinociception in diabetic neuropathic pain. This is in contrast to peripheral sensory neuron MOR upregulation and antinociception in inflammatory pain, and provides intriguing evidence that regulation of opioid responsiveness varies as a function of pain pathogenesis.
Activation of the ACE2/Angiotensin-(1–7)/Mas Receptor Axis Enhances the Reparative Function of Dysfunctional Diabetic Endothelial Progenitors
Authors: Jarajapu Yagna P.R. , Bhatwadekar Ashay D. , Caballero Sergio , Hazra Sugata , Shenoy Vinayak , Medina Reinhold , Kent David , Stitt Alan W. , Thut Catherine , Finney Eva M. , Raizada Mohan K. , Grant Maria B.
Published: December 2012

We tested the hypothesis that activation of the protective arm of the renin angiotensin system, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)]/Mas receptor axis, corrects the vasoreparative dysfunction typically seen in the CD34+ cells isolated from diabetic individuals. Peripheral blood CD34+ cells from patients with diabetes were compared with those of nondiabetic controls. Ang-(1-7) restored impaired migration and nitric oxide bioavailability/cGMP in response to stromal cell–derived factor and resulted in a decrease in NADPH oxidase activity. The survival and proliferation of CD34+ cells from diabetic individuals were enhanced by Ang-(1-7) in a Mas/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt-dependent manner. ACE2 expression was lower, and ACE2 activators xanthenone and diminazine aceturate were less effective in inducing the migration in cells from patients with diabetes compared with controls. Ang-(1-7) overexpression by lentiviral gene modification restored both the in vitro vasoreparative functions of diabetic cells and the in vivo homing efficiency to areas of ischemia. A cohort of patients who remained free of microvascular complications despite having a history of longstanding inadequate glycemic control had higher expression of ACE2/Mas mRNA than patients with diabetes with microvascular complications matched for age, sex, and glycemic control. Thus, ACE2/Ang-(1-7)\Mas pathway activation corrects existing diabetes-induced CD34+ cell dysfunction and also confers protection from development of this dysfunction.
Coronary Calcium Score Predicts Cardiovascular Mortality in Diabetes
Authors: Agarwal Subhashish , Cox Amanda J. , Herrington David M. , Jorgensen Neal W. , Xu Jianzhao , Freedman Barry I. , Carr J. Jeffrey , Bowden Donald W.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), it remains unclear whether coronary artery calcium (CAC) provides additional information about cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality beyond the Framingham Risk Score (FRS) factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 1,123 T2DM participants, ages 34–86 years, in the Diabetes Heart Study followed up for an average of 7.4 years were separated using baseline computed tomography scans of CAC (0–9, 10–99, 100–299, 300–999, and ≥1,000). Logistic regression was performed to examine the association between CAC and CVD mortality adjusting for FRS. Areas under the curve (AUC) with and without CAC were compared. Net reclassification improvement (NRI) compared FRS (model 1) versus FRS+CAC (model 2) using 7.4-year CVD mortality risk categories 0% to <7%, 7% to <20%, and ≥20%.

RESULTS

Overall, 8% of participants died of cardiovascular causes during follow-up. In multivariate analysis, the odds ratios (95% CI) for CVD mortality using CAC 0–9 as the reference group were, CAC 10–99: 2.93 (0.74–19.55); CAC 100–299: 3.17 (0.70–22.22); CAC 300–999: 4.41(1.15–29.00); and CAC ≥1,000: 11.23 (3.24–71.00). AUC (95% CI) without CAC was 0.70 (0.67–0.73), AUC with CAC was 0.75 (0.72–0.78), and NRI was 0.13 (0.07–0.19).

CONCLUSIONS

In T2DM, CAC predicts CVD mortality and meaningfully reclassifies participants, suggesting clinical utility as a risk stratification tool in a population already at increased CVD risk.
The incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis among the homeless in north-eastern Poland
Authors: Romaszko Jerzy , Buciński Adam , Kuchta Robert , Bednarski Krzysztof , Zakrzewska Magdalena
Published: December 2012

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease particularly affecting the poorest socioeconomic groups. One such group in Central Europe are the homeless. We developed a prevention programme that targets, among others, homeless individuals in Warmia and Mazury Province (in the northeast of Poland). We investigated 121 homeless persons. We performed surveys, X-rays and microbiological tests of the sputum for TB. Five cases of pulmonary TB were found. The prevalence of TB in this community was estimated at 4132 per 100,000 (4.13%). Efficient TB control justifies continued prevention programmes aimed at the systematic monitoring of the homeless population.
The Risk and Management of Anaphylaxis in the Setting of Immunotherapy
Authors: Lieberman Phil
Published: December 2012

Background

Anaphylactic events due to immunotherapy are probably not completely preventable. There is always an inherent risk surrounding the administration of an allergen to an individual who is sensitized to the substance administered.

Methods

There are, however, effective measures to reduce the risk of these events, and to optimize the assurance of a good outcome in the face of such an event.

Results

Of prime importance in preventing these episodes is the regular assessment of the patient's health status, especially in regard to asthma, and the careful attention to the prevention of dosing errors.

Conclusion

Of equal importance, in regard to assuring a good outcome should such an event occur, are the rapid recognition of symptoms and the immediate injection of epinephrine, the drug of choice for the treatment of any episode of anaphylaxis.
Hop Water Extract Inhibits Double-stranded RNA-induced Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Release from Human Nasal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Fuchimoto Jun , Kojima Takashi , Kobayashi Naoyuki , Ohkuni Tsuyoshi , Ogasawara Noriko , Masaki Tomoyuki , Obata Kazufumi , Nomura Kazuaki , Kondoh Atsushi , Shigyo Tatsuro , Himi Tetsuo , Sawada Norimasa
Published: December 2012

Background

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) acts as a master switch for allergic inflammation and plays a key role in allergic diseases, including allergic rhinitis. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) recognized by Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) strongly activates TSLP release from human human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs). Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) extracts have been shown to have potent pharmacologic effects on inflammation.

Methods

To investigate whether a hop water extract (HWE) prevents TSLP release from HNECs, human telomeras reverse transcriptase (hTERT)-transfected HNECs, used as a model of normal HNECs, were pretreated with HWE before treatment with the TLR3 ligand Polyinosine-polycytidylic acid (poly[I:C]).

Results

In the hTERT-transfected HNECs, treatment with HWE significantly reduced poly(I:C)-induced production and release of TSLP in a dose-dependent manner, as well as dexamethasone. Treatment with the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF109203X and NF-κB inhibitor IMD-0354 also reduced poly(I:C)-induced TSLP release from hTERT-transfected HNECs. Treatment with HWE efficiently prevented up-regulation of PKC activity by 12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate but not NF-κB activity induced by IL-1β in hTERT-transfected HNECs.

Conclusion

Our results clearly indicated that HWE inhibited dsRNA-induced production and release of TSLP via a PKC signal pathway in HNECs and it may have potent preventive effects against allergic rhinitis.
The Correlation of Microbiology Growth between Subperiosteal Orbital Abscess and Affected Sinuses in Young Children
Authors: Eviatar Ephraim , Lazarovitch Tsilia , Gavriel Haim
Published: December 2012

Background

Subperiosteal orbital abscess (SPOA) typically presents as a collection of pus in the space between the periorbit and the lamina papyracea adjacent to the infected paranasal sinuses. The aim of this study was to investigate the simultaneous microbiological growth from an SPOA and the paranasal sinuses in the same children.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed on cultures obtained from involved sinuses and surgically drained abscesses in young children with SPOA from January 1992 to March 2009.

Results

Twenty-two children with a mean age of 5.9 years were included. Results of the microbiological studies were available from the sinuses of 17 children (77.2%) and from the SPOA in 18 children (81.8%). High rates of staphylococci bacteria and Streptococcus viridans were observed compared with lower-than-expected upper respiratory tract infection pathogens. Both groups showed scarce anaerobic and polymicrobial growth. In 13 children (59%), both sinus and abscess culture results were available with correlation found in only 4 (30.7%) of these children.

Conclusion

In this study we report the results of bacteriological studies of nasal sinuses and SPOAs in young children, with a low rate of correlation between both sites and low rates of anaerobic growth, but high rates of staphylococcal growth in the SPOA cultures. These observations might be related to the trend toward conservative treatment in children.
Rhinoplasty from a Rhinologist's Perspective: Need for Recognition of Associated Sinonasal Conditions
Authors: Picavet Valerie A. , Grietens Jente , Jorissen Mark , Hellings Peter W.
Published: December 2012

Background

Facial plastic surgeons may primarily focus on esthetic improvement of the nasal shape in patients seeking rhinoplasty (RP). However, medical conditions inside the nasal cavity should not be neglected because they may lead to unresolved sinonasal problems and, hence, dissatisfaction after esthetic RP. This observational study investigated the prevalence of sinonasal symptoms and endonasal pathology in patients requesting esthetic RP.

Methods

Patients seeking RP (n = 269) were given a questionnaire evaluating nasal obstruction and sinonasal symptoms using visual analog scales and the 22-item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test. In addition, patients underwent nasal endoscopy to evaluate anatomic and/or mucosal disease and skin-prick testing in case of clinical suspicion of allergy. Two control groups consisted of patients with an otological or general ear/nose/throat problem (n = 65) and patients who planned for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS; n = 90).

Results

The general appraisal of nasal breathing on a scale from 0–10 in patients seeking RP was as low as 4.3 ± 3.1. Structural pathology was found in 62% of RP patients, with septal deviation being the most frequent problem encountered (54%), followed by internal nasal valve dysfunction (14%). Mucosal disease was present in 28% of RP patients. The mean SNOT-22 score of RP patients (31.8 ± 23.3) was significantly higher than the control group (11.6 ± 7.9; p < 0.001), but lower than the ESS patients (48.5 ± 22.0; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The prevalence of endonasal structural or mucosal pathology in patients seeking RP is high and should not be overlooked at the time of planning surgery.
Does Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia Affect Olfactory or Gustatory Function?
Authors: Steinbach Silke , Fasunla Ayotunde J. , Schäfers Sophia P. , Lahme Carolin M.E. , Geisthoff Urban W. , Hundt Walter , Wolf Petra , Mandic Robert , Werner Jochen A. , Eivazi Behfar
Published: December 2012

Background

The olfactory and gustatory functions of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) patients have not been documented by validated tests. Disorders of the nasal/oral cavity may interfere with the olfactory and gustatory functions. Fifty-four HHT patients were investigated by smell/taste tests.

Methods

HHT patients provided subjective ratings in areas such as ability to perceive smell/taste. “Sniffin’ Sticks” were used for smell tests, and taste strips were used for taste tests.

Results

HHT patients rated their subjective olfactory and gustatory function on a visual analog scale from 0 (none) to 100 (high) as 65.3 ± 27.7 and 68.1 ± 25.1, respectively. Comparison of smell test results of HHT patients with normative data of sex- and age-matched controls from Hummel et al. revealed that HHT patients had lower threshold values, whereas there was no difference in identification and discrimination values. HHT patients were hyposmic. In the case of taste qualities, all values (sweet, sour, salty, and bitter) in HHT patients were lower than those in normative data of Mueller et al. However, HHT patients were not hypogeusic. The duration of disease, extranasal manifestation, and treatments did not significantly correlate with smell/taste test values.

Conclusion

Compared with healthy people, HHT patients exhibit reduced olfactory and gustatory function; however, HHT patients are hyposmic and not hypogeusic. This chemosensory deficit may highlight an early sign of disease and has no correlation with disease severity. HHT patients should be informed about these potential disease manifestations, thus enabling them to improve their quality of life.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Might Reduce Exacerbations and Symptoms More than Balloon Sinuplasty
Authors: Koskinen Anni , Penttilä Matti , Myller Jyri , Hammarén-Malmi Sari , Silvola Juha , Haahtela Tari , Hytönen Maija , Toppila-Salmi Sanna
Published: December 2012

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is considered after medical therapy failure of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The balloon sinuplasty dilates the natural ostium without moving mucosa or bone. It still lacks evidence from randomized controlled trials. The aim of this retrospective controlled study was to compare the symptom outcomes after maxillary sinus surgery with either the ESS or the balloon sinuplasty technique. No previous or additional sinonasal operations were accepted.

Methods

Two hundred eight patients with CRS without nasal polyps underwent either balloon sinuplasty or ESS. The patients who met with the inclusion criteria (n = 45 in ESS group and n = 40 in balloon group) replied to a questionnaire of history factors, exacerbations, and a visual analog scale (VAS) scoring of the change in symptoms, on average 28 ± 6 (mean ± SD) months postoperatively.

Results

The groups were identical in the response rate (64%), patient characteristics, and the improvement in all of the asked symptoms. Patients with CRS-related comorbidity and/or present occupational exposure had a statistically significantly better symptom reduction after ESS than after balloon sinusotomy. Moreover, the balloon sinusotomy group reported a statistically significant higher number of maxillary sinus punctures and antibiotic courses during the last 12 months.

Conclusion

ESS might be superior to balloon sinuplasty, especially in patients with risk factors. There is a need to perform more controlled studies on the treatment choices of CRS.
Museums and the Educational Turn
Authors: Andermann Jens , Simine Silke Arnold-de
Published: December 2012

Responding to feminist, postcolonial, and memorialistic critiques, museums have over the past decades radically revised their protocols of collection and display, aiming to register in their own curatorial and pedagogical practice the open and contested nature of the historical and ethnographic narratives on which their object lessons had traditionally conferred the status of hard evidence. In this new emphasis on the “museum encounter” as a performative and intersubjective “event”—sometimes referred to as the “educational turn” in museum curatorship—a new type of “inclusive museum” has emerged in diverse geographical and political settings. The inclusive museum seeks to recover the museum’s social role as a purveyor of shared, collective meanings precisely in departing from its high-modern predecessor and in forging “open representations” that acknowledge the diversity of the interpretative community thus interpolated. Inclusive museums, in short, aim to offer a new, contemporary stage for negotiating and performing cultural citizenship.
The Transnational Turn Meets the Educational Turn
Authors: Kaiser Wolfram
Published: December 2012

History museums in Europe are transnationalizing their narratives. In contemporary historical sections they also increasingly include references to European integration and the present-day European Union. This "transnational turn" within a predominately European narrative frame meets the "educational turn." Museums attempt to transform themselves into more interactive spaces of communication. The meeting of these "turns" creates particular challenges of engaging and educating adolescents. I argue that in responding to these challenges, history museums in Europe so far use three main strategies: personalizing history, simulating real life decision-making situations, and encouraging participative narrating of the adolescents' own (transnational) experiences.
Making the Past Perceptible
Authors: Draper Susana
Published: December 2012

The "museums of memory" (museos de la memoria) have become ambiguous and con ictive sites that articulate the demand for remembrance and oblivion as regards the recent past of state authoritarianism and dictatorships in Latin America. This article seeks to disentangle ways of reading one of these spaces of memory, the Museo de la Memoria in Montevideo, Uruguay, paying special attention to a particular exhibition wing entitled The Prisons and to a temporary art installation by Daniel Jorysz, entitled Ver … dad, exhibited in an open space adjacent to the museum from September to November 2010. Analyzing the museum collection and establishing a counterpoint with the art installation, the article searches for the ways in which (hi)stories are made perceptible within these practices both on the inside and outside, and expose the conflicts that arise in the process.
Revision lumbar surgery in elderly patients with symptomatic pseudarthrosis, adjacent-segment disease, or same-level recurrent stenosis. Part 1. Two-year outcomes and clinical efficacy
Authors: Adogwa Owoicho , Carr Ricardo K. , Kudyba Katherine , Karikari Isaac , Bagley Carlos A. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Theodore Nicholas , Cheng Joseph S.
Published: December 2012

Object

Same-level recurrent lumbar stenosis, pseudarthrosis, and adjacent-segment disease (ASD) are potential complications that can occur after index lumbar spine surgery, leading to significant discomfort and radicular pain. While numerous studies have demonstrated excellent results following index lumbar spine surgery in elderly patients (age > 65 years), the effectiveness of revision lumbar surgery in this cohort remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term effectiveness of revision lumbar decompression and fusion in the treatment of symptomatic pseudarthrosis, ASD, and same-level recurrent stenosis, using validated patient-reported outcomes.

Methods

After a review of the institutional database, 69 patients who had undergone revision neural decompression and instrumented fusion for ASD (28 patients), pseudarthrosis (17 patients), or same-level recurrent stenosis (24 patients) were included in this study. Baseline and 2-year scores on the visual analog scale for leg pain (VAS-LP), VAS for back pain (VAS-BP), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) as well as the time to narcotic independence, time to return to baseline activity level, health state utility (EQ-5D, the EuroQol-5D health survey), and physical and mental component summary scores of the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12 PCS and MCS) were assessed.

Results

Compared with the preoperative status, VAS-BP was significantly improved 2 years after surgery for ASD (mean ± standard deviation 9 ± 2 vs 4.01 ± 2.56, p = 0.001), pseudarthrosis (7.41 ± 1 vs 5.52 ± 3.08, p = 0.02), and same-level recurrent stenosis (7 ± 2.00 vs 5.00 ± 2.34, p = 0.003). The 2-year ODI was also significantly improved after surgery for ASD (29 ± 9 vs 23.10 ± 10.18, p = 0.001), pseudarthrosis (28.47 ± 5.85 vs 24.41 ± 7.75, p = 0.001), and same-level recurrent stenosis (30.83 ± 5.28 vs 26.29 ± 4.10, p = 0.003). The Zung SDS score and SF-12 MCS did not change appreciably after surgery in any of the cohorts, with an overall mean 2-year change of 1.01 ± 5.32 (p = 0.46) and 2.02 ± 9.25 (p = 0.22), respectively.

Conclusions

Data in this study suggest that revision lumbar decompression and extension of fusion for symptomatic pseudarthrosis, ASD, and same-level recurrent stenosis provides improvement in low-back pain, disability, and quality of life and should be considered a viable treatment option for elderly patients with persistent or recurrent back and radicular pain. Mental health symptoms may be more refractory to revision surgery.
Revision lumbar surgery in elderly patients with symptomatic pseudarthrosis, adjacent-segment disease, or same-level recurrent stenosis. Part 2. A cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Adogwa Owoicho , Owens Ryan , Karikari Isaac , Agarwal Vijay , Gottfried Oren N. , Bagley Carlos A. , Isaacs Robert E. , Cheng Joseph S.
Published: December 2012

Object

Despite advances in technology and understanding in spinal physiology, reoperation for symptomatic adjacent-segment disease (ASD), same-level recurrent stenosis, and pseudarthrosis in elderly patients continues to occur. While revision lumbar surgery is effective, attention has turned to questions on the utility and value of the revision decompression and fusion procedure. To date, an analysis of the cost and health state gain associated with revision lumbar surgery in elderly patients with symptomatic pseudarthrosis, ASD, or same-level recurrent lumbar stenosis has yet to be performed. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness of revision surgery in elderly patients with recurrent or persistent back and leg pain.

Methods

After reviewing their institutional database, the authors found 69 patients 65 years of age and older who had undergone revision decompression and instrumented fusion for back and leg pain associated with pseudarthrosis (17 patients), same-level recurrent stenosis (24 patients), or ASD (28 patients) and included them in this study. Total 2-year back-related medical resource utilization and health state values (quality-adjusted life years [QALYs], calculated from the EQ-5D, the EuroQol-5D health survey, with US valuation) were assessed. Two-year resource use was multiplied by unit costs based on Medicare national allowable payment amounts. The mean total 2-year cost per QALY gained after revision surgery was assessed.

Results

The mean (± standard deviation) time between the index surgery and revision surgery was 3.51 ± 3.63 years. A mean cumulative 2-year gain of 0.35 QALY was observed after revision surgery. The mean total 2-year cost of revision surgery was $28,256 ± $3000 (ASD: $28,829 ± $3812, pseudarthrosis: $28,069 ± $2508, same-level recurrent stenosis: $27,871 ± $2375). Revision decompression and extension of fusion was associated with a mean 2-year cost of $80,594 per QALY gained.

Conclusions

Revision decompression and fusion provided a significant gain in health state utility for elderly patients with symptomatic pseudarthrosis, same-level recurrent stenosis, or ASD, with a mean 2-year cost of $80,594 per QALY gained. When indicated, revision surgery for symptomatic ASD, same-level recurrent stenosis, and pseudarthrosis is a valuable treatment option for elderly patients experiencing persistent back and leg pain. Findings in this study provided a value measure of surgery that can be compared with future cost-per-QALY-gained studies of medical management or alternative surgical approaches.
Formulation and characterization of gastroretentive drug delivery system of losartan potassium
Authors: Jaimini Manish , Tanwar Yuveraj Singh , Srivastava Birendra
Published: December 2012

Floating matrix tablets of losartan potassium were developed with an aim to prolong its gastric residence time and increase the bioavailability of drug. Rapid gastrointestinal transit could result in incomplete drug release from the drug delivery system above the absorption zone leading to diminished efficacy of the administered dose. The tablets were prepared by wet granulation technique, using polymers Methocel K15 and Methocel K100 in combination with other standard excipients. Sodium bicarbonate was incorporated as gas generating agent. The effects of sodium bicarbonate and polymers on drug release profile and floating properties were investigated. It was found that viscosity of Methocel K15 and Methocel K100 along with sodium bicarbonate had significant impact on the release and floating properties of the delivery system. The decrease in the release rate was observed with an increase in the viscosity of the polymeric system. Polymer with high viscosity Methocel K100 was shown to be beneficial than low viscosity polymer Methocel K15 in improving the floating properties of gastric floating drug delivery system (GFDDS). The observed difference in the drug release and floating properties of GFDDS could be attributed to the difference in the basic properties of two polymers, Methocel K15 and Methocel K100 due to their water uptake potential and functional group substitution. The release mechanism were explored and described with zero-order, first-order and Korsmeyer-Peppas equations. The drug release profiles and buoyancy of the floating tablets were stable when stored at 40°C/75% RH for 6 months.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icpj.v2i1.12872 International Current Pharmaceutical Journal 2012, 2(1): 11-17
Biofuels and the Future of Food: Competition and Complementarities
Authors: Tokgoz Simla , Zhang Wei , Msangi Siwa , Bhandary Prapti
Published: December 2012

In this paper, we draw the key linkages between future biofuels growth on agricultural commodity prices, and highlight some of the key uncertainties over OECD fuel and energy policies, and their implications for global agricultural markets and the world food situation. Our results show some of the implications that biofuels expansion has on crop area expansion in regions where environmental concerns exist over land use change and the possible impacts on the environment. We also point to some promising areas for future research and specify some implications for policy interventions.
Systematic Study of the Failure of a Light-Frame Wood Roof in a Tornado
Authors: Van de Lindt John , Amini Mohammad , Standohar-Alfano Christine , Dao Thang
Published: December 2012

Tornadoes are a particularly devastating natural hazard that affect communities across the United States, particularly the Midwest and South. They are unique from an engineering point-of-view due to their very low probability of occurrence but often highly destructive consequences. The 2011 season was particularly devastating to the Southeastern portion of the U.S. This paper presents a single case study of a 2012 tornado that struck a single large rural light-frame wood house with an unconventional roof system. A fragility methodology was used as a tool to probabilistically study the loss of the roof system, and bound an Enhanced Fujita (EF) scale rating of the tornado. The tornado was initially rated as an EF3 tornado by the U.S. National Weather Service. However, following a detailed site inspection verified with numerical structural models, the tornado was downgraded to an EF2 tornado. As expected, the use of nail connections in a roof-to-wall connection resulted in a weaker link compared to a hurricane clip. The approach presented in this paper can be used as a supplement to the EF rating provided by U.S. National Weather Service meteorologists when unusual conditions in either the structure or surroundings exists.
Immunotherapy: Shifting the Balance of Cell-Mediated Immunity and Suppression in Human Prostate Cancer
Authors: Tucker Jo , Jochems Caroline , Gulley James , Schlom Jeffrey , Tsang Kwong
Published: December 2012

Active immunotherapy is dependent on the ability of the immune system to recognize and respond to tumors. Despite overwhelming evidence to support a cell-mediated immune response to prostate cancer, it is insufficient to eradicate the disease. This is likely due to a high level of suppression at the tumor site from a variety of sources, including immunosuppressive cells. Immune cells entering the tumor microenvironment may be inhibited directly by the tumor, stromal cells or other immune cells that have been induced to adopt a suppressive phenotype. The resurgence of interest in immunotherapy following the approval of sipuleucel-T and ipilimumab by the Food and Drug Administration has brought about new strategies for overcoming tumor-mediated suppression and bolstering anti-tumor responses. Improved understanding of the immune response to prostate cancer can lead to new combination therapies, such as the use of vaccine with small molecule and checkpoint inhibitors or other immunotherapies.