bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autopsy Findings in Botulinum Toxin Poisoning
Authors: Devers Kelly G. , Nine Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  In the United States, foodborne botulism is most commonly associated with home‐canned food products. Between 1950 and 2005, 405 separate outbreaks of botulism were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Approximately 8% of these outbreaks were attributed to commercially produced canned food products. Overall, 5–10% of persons ingesting botulinum toxin die. Few reports exist pertaining to autopsy findings in cases of foodborne botulism. Here, we report the autopsy findings of a man who died after a prolonged illness caused by botulinum toxin exposure likely attributable to a commercially prepared food source. Despite extensive testing, our histopathologic findings were nonspecific. We therefore conclude that the forensic pathologist must become familiar with the neurotoxicity syndrome associated with this illness. Maintaining vigilance for botulism by carefully reviewing the decedent’s clinical history will aid in the early identification and control of outbreaks, either foodborne or terrorism‐related.
An Autopsy Case in Which Self‐Bloodletting Via a Cervical Blood Access Led to a Fatal Outcome*
Authors: Mizukami Hajime , Nagai Tomonori , Mori Shinjiro , Hara Shuichi , Fukunaga Tatsushige , Endo Takahiko
Published: June 2010

Abstract:  A 48‐year‐old woman was found dead on a chair in her living room. She had received dialysis every day because of chronic renal failure for the past 15 years. On a table beside her, there was a mirror and 10‐mL syringe on a napkin. A stopper was out of place in a portion of a three‐way blood access tube established in the right cervical region, and blood coagulation was noted in the lumen. There was a bloodstained measuring cup on the floor. Autopsy findings included a large number of shunt traces in the bilateral infraclavicular fossae and upper limbs, as well as the cervical blood access terminal reaching the right atrium via the internal jugular vein to superior vena cava. Various organs showed anemia. Neither a fatal lesion nor injury was noted in the main organs. Therefore, this patient may have committed suicide by self‐bloodletting via a cervical blood access.
Alveolar ridge preservation with guided bone regeneration and a synthetic bone substitute or a bovine‐derived xenograft: a randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mardas Nikos , Chadha Vivek , Donos Nikolaos
Published: June 2010

Objectives: The aim of this randomized, controlled clinical trial was to compare the potential of a synthetic bone substitute or a bovine‐derived xenograft combined with a collagen membrane to preserve the alveolar ridge dimensions following tooth extraction.

Methods: Twenty‐seven patients were randomized into two treatment groups following single tooth extraction in the incisor, canine and premolar area. In the test group, the alveolar socket was grafted with Straumann Bone Ceramic® (SBC), while in the control group, Bio‐Oss® deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) was applied. In both groups, a collagen barrier was used to cover the grafting material. Complete soft tissue coverage of the barriers was not achieved. After 8 months, during re‐entry procedures and before implant placement, the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the residual ridge were re‐evaluated and trephine biopsies were performed for histological analysis in all patients.

Results: Twenty‐six patients completed the study. The bucco‐lingual dimension of the alveolar ridge decreased by 1.1±1 mm in the SBC group and by 2.1±1 in the DBBM group (P<0.05). Both materials preserved the mesio‐distal bone height of the ridge. No differences in the width of buccal and palatal bone plate were observed between the two groups. The histological analysis showed new bone formation in the apical part of the biopsies, which, in some instances, was in direct contact with both SBC and DBBM particles. The coronal part of the biopsies was occupied by a dense fibrous connective tissue surrounding the SBC and DBBM particles.

Conclusion: Both biomaterials partially preserved the width and the interproximal bone height of the alveolar ridge.

To cite this article:
 Mardas N, Chadha V, Donos N. Alveolar ridge preservation with guided bone regeneration and a synthetic bone substitute or a bovine‐derived xenograft: a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 688–698.
Evaluation of bone thickness around the mental foramen for potential fixation of a bone‐borne functional appliance: a computer tomography scan study
Authors: Al‐Kalaly Abdullah A. , Wong Ricky W. K. , Cheung Lim K. , Purkayastha Shimanto K. , Schätzle Marc , Rabie A. Bakr M.
Published: June 2010

Aim: A mandible bone‐borne Herbst appliance (MBBHA) would avoid the proclination of the lower incisors that occurs with any teeth‐borne functional appliance. But mapping of the bone characteristics at potential fixation areas around the mental foramen has not been carried out so far. The aim of this computer tomographic (CT) study was to evaluate bone thickness at specific positions around the mental foramen.

Material and methods: CT scans of 60 randomly chosen adult Hong Kong Chinese subjects (mean age 28±6.3 years) were used to measure the bi‐cortical bone thickness in the mandible in the mental foramen area. The thickness of buccal and lingual cortical and cancellous bone was assessed at the following locations: 10 mm (A10 mm) and 5 mm (A5 mm) anterior, 10 mm (P10 mm) and 5 mm (P5 mm) posterior, and 5 mm (Inf5 mm) below the mental foramen.

Results: The amount of buccal cortical bone thickness ranged between 1.89 mm, 10 mm anterior of the mental foramen, and 2.16 mm, 10 mm posterior to its location. At the A10 mm level, cortical thickness showed a marginal statistically significant difference between A5 and A10 mm. The total amount of bone thickness ranged from 10.19 to 12.06 mm.

Conclusion: At the locations studied around the mental foramen, a mean bicortical bone thickness of 10–12 mm was measured. No large variation in the thickness was found between bicortical bone thicknesses in the measured locations around the mental foramen. Thorough evaluation on a case‐by‐case basis is advisable.

To cite this article:
 Al‐Kalaly AA, Wong RWK, Cheung LK, Purkayastha SK, Schätzle M, Rabie ABM. Evaluation of bone thickness around the mental foramen for potential fixation of a bone‐borne functional appliance: a computer tomography scan study. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 1288–1293. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01947.x
Son Preference in the Context of Fertility Decline: Limits to New Constructions of Gender and Kinship in Nepal
Authors: Brunson Jan
Published: June 2010

This article explores the persistence of son preference in a patrilineal, patrilocal society in the midst of fertility decline. Using survey and ethnographic data from Hindu‐caste Nepali families in a semiurban village, I analyze which cultural norms regarding reproduction are questioned by contemporary married couples and which remain intact. Despite modest improvements in gender equality, levels of education, and economic conditions, the practical knowledge that daughters will be lost to other lineages and households pressures couples who might otherwise be willing to invest in daughters to continue procreating until they produce a son. Young mothers, therefore, reluctantly admit to needing a son, revealing a discrepancy between their initially stated reproductive ideals and their ultimate behavior.
Comparison of membrane fraction proteomic profiles of normal and cancerous human colorectal tissues with gel‐assisted digestion and iTRAQ labeling mass spectrometry
Authors: Chen Jinn‐Shiun , Chen Kuei‐Tien , Fan Chung‐Wei , Han Chia‐Li , Chen Yu‐Ju , Yu Jau‐Song , Chang Yu‐Sun , Chien Chih‐Wei , Wu Chien‐Peng , Hung Ray‐Ping , Chan Err‐Cheng
Published: June 2010

The aim of this study was to uncover the membrane protein profile differences between colorectal carcinoma and neighboring normal mucosa from colorectal cancer patients. Information from cellular membrane proteomes can be used not only to study the roles of membrane proteins in fundamental biological processes, but also to discover novel targets for improving the management of colorectal cancer patients. We used solvent extraction and a gel‐assisted digestion method, together with isobaric tags with related and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) reagents to label tumoral and adjacent normal tissues in a pairwise manner (n = 8). For high‐throughput quantification, these digested labeled peptides were combined and simultaneously analyzed using LC‐MS/MS. Using the shotgun approach, we identified a total of 438 distinct proteins from membrane fractions of all eight patients. After comparing protein expression between cancerous and corresponding normal tissue, we identified 34 upregulated and eight downregulated proteins with expression changes greater than twofold (Student’s t‐test, P < 0.05). Among these, the overexpression of well‐established biomarkers such as carcinoembryonic antigens (CEACAM5, CEACAM6), as well as claudin‐3, HLA class I histocompatibility antigen A‐1, tapasin and mitochondrial solute carrier family 25A4 were confirmed by western blotting. We conclude that gel‐assisted digestion and iTRAQ labeling MS is a potential approach for uncovering and comparing membrane protein profiles of tissue samples that has the potential to identify novel biomarkers.
Exposure of IgG to an acidic environment results in molecular modifications and in enhanced protective activity in sepsis
Authors: Djoumerska‐Alexieva Iglika K. , Dimitrov Jordan D. , Voynova Elisaveta N. , Lacroix‐Desmazes Sebastien , Kaveri Srinivas V. , Vassilev Tchavdar L.
Published: June 2010

IgG molecules are exposed on a regular basis to acidic conditions during immunoaffinity purification procedures, as well as during the production of some therapeutic immunoglobulin preparations. This exposure is known to induce in them an antigen‐binding polyreactivity. The molecular mechanisms and the possible biological significance of this phenomenon remain, however, poorly understood. In addition to the previously reported ability of these modified IgG antibodies to interact with a large panel of self‐antigens, enhanced binding to non‐self‐antigens (bacterial), an increased ability to engage in F(ab′)2/F(ab′)2(idiotype/anti‐idiotype) interactions and an increased functional antigen‐binding affinity are reported here. The newly acquired ‘induced polyreactivity’ of low‐pH buffer‐exposed IgG is related to structural changes in the immunoglobulin molecules, and is at least partly attributable to the enhanced role of the hydrophobic effect in their interactions with antigen. Our results suggest that data from many previous studies on monoclonal and polyclonal IgG antibodies purified by low‐pH buffer elution from protein A or protein G immunoaffinity columns should be reconsidered, as the procedure itself may have dramatically affected their antigen‐binding behavior and biological activity. Low‐pH buffer‐treated pooled therapeutic immunoglobulins acquire novel beneficial properties, as passive immunotherapy with the pH 4.0 buffer‐exposed, but not with the native therapeutic intravenous immunoglobulin preparation, improves the survival of mice with bacterial lipopolysaccharide‐induced septic shock.
Suprapubic catheter displacement: A forgotten phenomenon
Authors: Huang James G , Brough Stephen J , Jensen Robert S , Monsour Michael J
Published: June 2010

Suprapubic catheters provide a durable form of long‐term bladder drainage. Few cases of catheter displacement have been reported. We report a series of three patients with suprapubic catheter displacement following catheter changes, with varying clinical presentations and sequelae. Early suspicion of catheter displacement in patients with suprapubic catheters presenting with undiagnosed sepsis or abdominal pain, can lead to timely radiological diagnosis and treatment.
Conservation of natural enemy fauna in citrus canopies by horticultural mineral oil: Comparison with effects of carbaryl and methidathion treatments for control of armored scales
Authors: Liang Weiguang , Meats Alan , Beattie G. Andrew C. , Spooner‐Hart Robert , Jiang Laura
Published: June 2010

Abstract  The disruptive effects of an nC24 horticultural mineral oil (HMO) and two other insecticides (carbaryl and methidathion) on two armored scale insects and natural enemy fauna were evaluated in two citrus orchards. In the first orchard, all three spray treatments and non‐sprayed controls were distributed separately among individual trees in one block, whereas in the second orchard the control, HMO and methidathion treatments were applied at the level of whole blocks. The results in both orchards were similar. All three of the spray treatments had a lethal effect on the red scale insects and the effects of HMO and methidathion tested at the second site lasted for at least 19 weeks and for purple scale, at least 50 weeks. HMO did not have a significant effect on the abundance and species diversity of parasitoids and (for the most part) did not affect coccinellids and predatory mites. Both carbaryl and methidathion caused significant ongoing disruption to the above groups. No treatment resulted in the resurgence of the scale insects or the outbreak of phytophagous mites, even where whole blocks were sprayed.
OPTIMIZATION OF CARROT POMACE POWDER INCORPORATION ON EXTRUDED PRODUCT QUALITY BY RESPONSE SURFACE METHODOLOGY
Authors: UPADHYAY A. , SHARMA H.K. , SARKAR B.C.
Published: June 2010

Rice and gram flour mix with carrot pomace powder (CPP) was used for the extrudates under study. Response surface methodology was used to analyze the effect of die temperature (65–125C), feed rate (2.5–8.5 g/s), feed moisture (10–30%, w.b.) and CPP (1.5–15.5%) on extrudate moisture, expansion index, bulk density and sensory characteristics of extrudates. Regression equations describing the effect of each variable were obtained. Die temperature was observed to be the most effective (P < 0.05) process variable to affect the selected responses, followed by change in feed moisture and CPP. Overall acceptability (OA) of the experimental samples ranged from 3.4 to 7.9 for the selected process variables. An optimization of process variables using regressed equation was attempted for maximum desirability in responses. Optimum incorporation level of CPP was found to be 5%, with OA score of 7.4. The study demonstrated that an acceptable extruded product can be prepared by CPP incorporation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Extrusion is a widely used processing technology in many ready‐to‐eat cereal‐based snacks. A lot of work has been done on cereal‐based extrusion along with pulse supplementation for improved protein quality. The present study also takes its basis from such previous studies. Innovative approach in this study involves utilization of a by‐product through incorporation of carrot pomace powder (CPP) in pre‐extrusion mix. Furthermore, a polynomial model is established for each process variable, and CPP incorporation is optimized for the desired quality of extrudates.
EFFECT OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE AND TIME ON QUALITY IN MINIMALLY PROCESSED LITCHI FRUIT (LITCHI CHINENSIS SONN.)
Authors: BOLAÑOS ELIA NORA AQUINO , VELÁZQUEZ RUBEN CORONA , CÁRDENAZ ANDRÉS VILLEGAS , SANTAMARÍA ISABEL REYES , VERA NORMA GÜEMES , FUENTES ALMA DELIA HERNANDEZ , SILVA EDMUNDO MERCADO
Published: June 2010

Rind browning is the most serious marketing problem for litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) fruit, although it has no effect on the quality of the edible aril portion. Physicochemical, biochemical and subjective quality evaluations were done in minimally processed (peeled and vacuum‐packed) litchi cv. Racimo Rojo fruit stored 18 days at 2, 5 or 10C. Little change was observed in total soluble solids, titratable acidity and pH, independent of storage temperature. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity decreased, total phenolic compound content remained unchanged and peroxidase (POD) activity increased during storage. Correlation was low (<0.63) between color parameters (L*, a*and b*) and PPO and POD activities, and phenolic compounds. The minimally processed fruit stored at 2C exhibited characteristics similar to fresh fruit, whereas those stored at 5 and 10C emitted disagreeable odors that lowered their subjective quality.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The insignificant physicochemical changes observed here suggest that when stored at 2C, litchi fruit can be offered as a minimally processed product with characteristics similar to fresh fruit. Unlike most other minimally processed fruit products and other litchi varieties, pulp browning was not a significant problem in litchi cv. Racimo Rojo after peeling, providing it a potential commercial advantage.
Perceptions and implications of violence from care home residents with dementia: a review and commentary
Authors: Scott Ann , Ryan Assumpta , James Ian , Mitchell Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2010

scott a., ryan a., james i. & mitchell E.A. (2010) Perceptions and implications of violence from care home residents with dementia: a review and commentary. International Journal of Older People Nursing6, 110–122 doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2010.00226.x

Aims and objectives.  This paper presents a critical review of the literature related to the violence staff in care homes experience from people with dementia. It attempts to identify the psychological consequences abuse has on care workers and the implications this has for practice.

Background.  Abuse in the form of violence or aggression against healthcare professionals is not new. However, when this is from residents with dementia in care homes it is considered to be part of the job. Consequently it is largely underreported and ignored which masks its true extent.

Conclusion.  The magnitude of violence in care homes crosses cultural boundaries. Fear of being blamed, job insecurity and resignation that abuse should be accepted as part of the job is unique to this care setting. The cumulative effect of psychological abuse leads to emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation which results in care workers emotionally and physically withdrawing from residents. Being subjected to abuse, feeling undervalued, unsupported and lacking essential skills may compromise a workforces’ ability to provide person‐centred care. A rising ageing population and prevalence of dementia will place demands on commissioners and providers to deliver high quality care. Consistent recording and reporting procedures, dementia specific training and infrastructures to support staff is therefore crucial.
Stability of Flavonoids in the Presence of Riboflavin‐photogenerated Reactive Oxygen Species: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Study on Quercetin, Morin and Rutin
Authors: Montaña María P. , Massad Walter A. , Criado Susana , Biasutti Alicia , García Norman A.
Published: June 2010

Kinetic and mechanistic aspects on the stability of the flavones (FL) quercetin (Que), morin (Mor) and rutin (Rut), in methanolic solution and in the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by visible light‐promoted riboflavin (Rf, vitamin B2) photoirradiation were studied. The system was chosen as a model for the evaluation of the in vivo protective effect of biological targets by the flavones. The overall picture includes the vitamin as an endogenous natural photosensitizer. A systematic study on the effect of ROS on FL photostability shows that under work conditions Que is oxidized by singlet molecular oxygen (O2(1Δg)), superoxide radical anion (O2˙−) and hydrogen peroxide; Mor is degraded by O2(1Δg) and O2˙− whereas Rut only reacts with O2(1Δg). Que and Rut, with an extremely poor overall rate constant, are mainly physical quenchers of O2(1Δg). Mor, with O2(1Δg)‐interception ability slightly lower than the recognized synthetic antioxidant trolox (Tx), behaves as a typical sacrificial scavenger provided that ca 80% of the collisions with O2(1Δg) cause its own degradation, whereas this parameter reaches around 50% in the case of Tx.
The scale of illegal meat importation from Africa to Europe via Paris
Authors: Chaber Anne‐Lise , Allebone‐Webb Sophie , Lignereux Yves , Cunningham Andrew A. , Marcus Rowcliffe J.
Published: June 2010

Concerns have been raised about the illegal import of bushmeat from Africa into Europe, particularly regarding the health risks posed to people and livestock. The role of international trade in driving unsustainable hunting in source countries is unknown, but generally assumed to be limited. Here, we present the first systematic study of the scale and nature of this international trade. We estimate that around five tonnes of bushmeat per week is smuggled in personal baggage through Paris Roissy‐Charles de Gaulle airport. Bushmeat is not only imported for personal consumption but is part of a lucrative organized trade, with high prices indicating luxury status. A wide range of species is carried, many of which are CITES‐listed. Based on these findings, we suggest ways in which customs, airlines, and airport authorities could reduce imports, focussing on raising awareness of regulations, and improving surveillance and deterrence, particularly where CITES‐listed species are concerned.
BODY AND MASK IN ARISTOPHANIC PERFORMANCE
Authors: VARAKIS ANGELIKI
Published: June 2010

In Greek comedy the masking of the head and dressing of the body was essential to effect a full transformation of the actor into a comic character. The body mask was as important as the head in its power to transform the actor into a different persona, suggesting that the comic characters' bodies were as significant as their heads in producing meaning and not a simple costume accessory.

In attempting to understand the function of the comic mask and body in ancient performance, this paper considers the similarities between the distorted bodies through a careful examination of a series of vase paintings and terracotta figurines. In doing so, it aims to show that the Aristophanic mask would not have been perceived by the audience as fixed to echo pre-determined meanings but changeable in accordance with the wider performance context. The spectators would thus have had the freedom to ‘recreate’ the characters anew, allowing their imagination to flourish in line with the participatory nature of the event and playful nature of the dramatic parts.
TEXTUAL REMARKS ON ISAEUS 3
Authors: HATZILAMBROU ROSALIA
Published: June 2010

The paper presents some textual remarks on the third speech of Isaeus. They involve both new suggestions and a discussion of readings suggested by other scholars and adopted in my forthcoming edition of Isaeus 3, but not by Thalheim nor Wyse, the principal editors of Isaeus.
THE NATURE OF FIRE AND ITS COMPLICATIONS: THEOPHRASTUS' DE IGNE 1–10
Authors: VAN RAALTE MARLEIN
Published: June 2010

This article offers a running commentary on De igne 1–10 (with text and translation). The way in which Theophrastus sets out to ascribe to the simple body of fire characteristics of terrestrial, burning fire, and only gradually dismisses his focus on fire (and its alter ego of heat) as a principle seems to indicate an early stage of his thought. On the other hand, a formal analysis of the text shows that the argument bears an unmistakably Theophrastean stamp. Finally it is argued that it cannot be inferred from De igne that Theophrastus adhered to the Aristotelian concept of aithêr, and that it is also very unlikely that he did so. The relevant passages from Theophrastus' botanical treatises and Metaphysics confirm this picture. Even the quite explicit testimonies from Philoponus and Julian seem to allow of an interpretation that does not involve Theophrastus having adopted this Aristotelian concept.
Fast activation of feedforward inhibitory neurons from thalamic input and its relevance to the regulation of spike sequences in the barrel cortex
Authors: Kimura Fumitaka , Itami Chiaki , Ikezoe Koji , Tamura Hiroshi , Fujita Ichiro , Yanagawa Yuchio , Obata Kunihiko , Ohshima Minoru
Published: June 2010

Thalamocortical afferents innervate both excitatory and inhibitory cells, the latter in turn producing disynaptic feedforward inhibition, thus creating fast excitation–inhibition sequences in the cortical cells. Since this inhibition is disynaptic, the time lag of the excitation–inhibition sequence could be ∼2–3 ms, while it is often as short as only slightly above 1 ms; the mechanism and function of such fast IPSPs are not fully understood. Here we show that thalamic activation of inhibitory neurons precedes that of excitatory neurons, due to increased conduction velocity of thalamic axons innervating inhibitory cells. Developmentally, such latency differences were seen only after the end of the second postnatal week, prior to the completion of myelination of the thalamocortical afferent. Furthermore, destroying myelination failed to extinguish the latency difference. Instead, axons innervating inhibitory cells had consistently lower threshold, indicating they had larger diameter, which is likely to underlie the differential conduction velocity. Since faster activation of GABAergic neurons from the thalamus can not only curtail monosynaptic EPSPs but also make disynaptic ISPSs precede disynaptic EPSPs, such suppression theoretically enables a temporal separation of thalamically driven mono‐ and disynaptic EPSPs, resulting in spike sequences of ‘L4 leading L2/3’. By recording L4 and L2/3 cells simultaneously, we found that suppression of IPSPs could lead to deterioration of spike sequences. Thus, from the end of the second postnatal week, by activating GABAergic neurons prior to excitatory neurons from the thalamus, fast feedforward disynaptic suppression on postsynaptic cells may play a role in establishing the spike sequences of ‘L4 leading L2/3 cells’.
3D Simulation of Manufacturing Defects for Tolerance Analysis
Authors: Kamali Nejad M. , Vignat F. , Desrochers A. , Villeneuve F.
Published: June 2010

When a new product is designed in an industrial context, it must be possible to produce this product with the desired level of quality and at an acceptable cost for the market. One of the important quality criteria is compliance with functional tolerances. To evaluate the impact of manufacturing defects on the quality of parts produced, designers simulate the influence of the error stack-up in different machining operations to check compliance with functional tolerances. This paper builds on the model of manufactured part and the Jacobian–Torsor model and presents a combined approach for analyzing machined part tolerance taking into account the geometrical defects occurring in a multistage machining process (positioning defects and machining defects). This combined approach aims to help designers when evaluating the different process plans by predicting the worst quality of finished parts. This study uses interval arithmetic because it offers the advantage of expressing uncertainties and deviations.
A Unified Approach to Kinematic and Tolerance Analysis of Locating Fixtures
Authors: Armillotta Antonio , Moroni Giovanni , Polini Wilma , Semeraro Quirico
Published: June 2010

A workholding fixture should ensure a stable and precise positioning of the workpiece with respect to the machine tool. This requirement is even more important when modular fixtures are used for the sake of efficiency and reconfigurability. They include standard locating elements, which set the part in a predefined spatial orientation by contacting its datum surfaces. In the computer-based design of a fixture, the layout of locators must be tested against two main sources of problems. Kinematic analysis verifies that any relative motion between the part and the worktable is constrained. Tolerance analysis evaluates the robustness of part orientation with respect to manufacturing errors on datum surfaces. We propose a method to carry out both tests through a common set of geometric parameters of the fixture configuration. These derive from the singular value decomposition of the matrix that represents positioning constraints in screw coordinates. For a poorly designed fixture, the decomposition allows us to find out either unconstrained degrees of freedom of the part or a possible violation of tolerance specifications on machined features due to geometric errors on datum surfaces. In such cases, the analysis provides suggestions to plan the needed corrections to the locating scheme. This paper describes the procedure for kinematic and tolerance analysis and demonstrates its significance on a sample case of fixture design.
Using Volume Morphing to Alter Panel Designs to Compensate Shape Distortion in Assembly
Authors: Sarraga Ramon F. , LeBlanc Paul A. , Oetjens Thomas J.
Published: June 2010

As automotive panels are assembled in a vehicle, they are subjected to shape distorting forces, e.g., the pressure of door seals. A standard technique for preventing shape distortions is to alter the panels’ computer aided design (CAD) in such a way that the panels assume the desired design shape under the action of the distorting forces. Volume morphing, a technique pioneered by Bézier (1978, “General Distortion of an Ensemble of Biparametric Patches,” Comput.-Aided Des., 10(2), pp. 116–120) and by Sederberg and Parry (1986, “Free-Form Deformation of Solid Geometric Models,” International Conference on Computer Graphics and Interactive Techniques, Proceedings of the 13th Annual Conference on Computer Graphics, pp. 151–160), has been extended and implemented in a computer software package called FESHAPE, created at the General Motors Research and Development Center. FESHAPE automatically modifies CAD models according to a finite set of displacement vectors obtained, e.g., from finite-element analysis or scanning tryout parts. This article discusses how FESHAPE has been successfully applied to compensate door panel distortion caused by door seals.
Toward Stable and Realistic Haptic Interaction for Tooth Preparation Simulation
Authors: Wu Jun , Wang Dangxiao , Wang Charlie C. L. , Zhang Yuru
Published: June 2010

In this paper, we present the methods to generate a stable and realistic simulator for dental surgery. First, a simplified force model is derived from grinding theory by considering the complex bur shape and dental handpiece’s dynamic behavior. While the force model can be evaluated very fast to fulfill the high update rate of haptic rendering, it also explains basic haptic sensation features in tooth preparation operation. Second, as direct rendering of this damping-like force model may induce instability of the haptic device, we apply a virtual coupling based method to guarantee the stability in haptic rendering. Furthermore, implicit integration of the bur’s motion equation is utilized to ensure numerical stability. Third, to overcome force discontinuity caused by locally removing tooth materials, we define a two-layer based representation for the bur, where the boundary voxels are adopted to compute forces and the interior voxels are employed to remove materials from teeth. The experimental results agree with the real sensation described by experienced dentists.
Interval Extensions of Signed Distance Functions: iSDF-reps and Reliable Membership Classification
Authors: Storti Duane , Finley Chris , Ganter Mark
Published: June 2010

This paper considers the problem of inferring the geometry of an object from values of the signed distance sampled on a uniform grid. The problem is motivated by the desire to effectively and efficiently model objects obtained by 3D imaging technology such as magnetic resonance, computed tomography, and positron emission tomography. Techniques recently developed for automated segmentation convert intensity to signed distance, and the voxel structure imposes the uniform sampling grid. The specification of the signed distance function (SDF) throughout the ambient space would provide an implicit and function-based representation (f-rep) model that uniquely specifies the object, and we refer to this particular f-rep as the signed distance function representation (SDF-rep). However, a set of uniformly sampled signed distance values may uniquely determine neither the distance function nor the shape of the object. Here, we employ essential properties of the signed distance to construct the upper and lower bounds on the allowed variation in signed distance, which combine to produce interval-valued extensions of the signed distance function. We employ an interval extension of the signed distance function as an interval SDF-rep that defines the range of object geometries that are consistent with the sampled SDF data. The particular interval extensions considered include a tight global extension and more computationally efficient local extensions that provide useful criteria for root exclusion/isolation. To illustrate a useful application of the interval bounds, we present a reliable approach to top-down octree membership classification for uniform samplings of signed distance functions.
β-Arrestin–Biased Agonism of the Angiotensin Receptor Induced by Mechanical Stress
Authors: Rakesh Kriti , Yoo ByungSu , Kim Il-Man , Salazar Natasha , Kim Ki-Seok , Rockman Howard A.
Published: June 2010

Mechanical stress on hearts triggers β-arrestin–dependent cell survival signaling through the angiotensin receptor.
Pharmacological Forgetting
Authors: Stern Peter R.
Published: June 2010

Pharmacological agents can be used to treat disorders of pathological fear without reactivating the original memory trace.
Keeping Tabs on Second-Messenger Localization
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: June 2010

Genetically encoded biosensors visualize the dynamics of a global signaling molecule within bacterial cells.
Eradicating the Mediators of Neuronal Death with a Fine-Tooth Comb
Authors: Zukin R. Suzanne
Published: June 2010

Polycomb group proteins promote the acquisition of ischemic tolerance in neurons.
Genomewide Analysis of Divergence of Antibiotic Resistance Determinants in Closely Related Isolates of
Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Adams Mark D. , Chan E. Ricky , Molyneaux Neil D. , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: June 2010

Multidrug resistance has emerged as a significant concern with infections caused by
Acinetobacter baumannii
. Ample evidence supports the involvement of mobile genetic elements in the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, but the extent of variability and the rate of genetic change associated with the acquisition of antibiotic resistance have not been studied in detail. Whole-genome sequence analysis of six closely related clinical isolates of
A. baumannii
, including four from the same hospital, revealed extensive divergence of the resistance genotype that correlated with observed differences in antimicrobial susceptibility. Resistance genes associated with insertion sequences, plasmids, and a chromosomal resistance gene island all showed variability. The highly dynamic resistance gene repertoire suggests rapid evolution of drug resistance.
Evaluation of the Genotypic Prediction of HIV-1 Coreceptor Use versus a Phenotypic Assay and Correlation with the Virological Response to Maraviroc: the ANRS GenoTropism Study
Authors: Recordon-Pinson Patricia , Soulié Cathia , Flandre Philippe , Descamps Diane , Lazrek Mouna , Charpentier Charlotte , Montes Brigitte , Trabaud Mary-Anne , Cottalorda Jacqueline , Schneider Véronique , Morand-Joubert Laurence , Tamalet Catherine , Desbois Delphine , Macé Muriel , Ferré Virginie , Vabret Astrid , Ruffault Annick , Pallier Coralie , Raymond Stéphanie , Izopet Jacques , Reynes Jacques , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Masquelier Bernard
Published: June 2010

Genotypic algorithms for prediction of HIV-1 coreceptor usage need to be evaluated in a clinical setting. We aimed at studying (i) the correlation of genotypic prediction of coreceptor use in comparison with a phenotypic assay and (ii) the relationship between genotypic prediction of coreceptor use at baseline and the virological response (VR) to a therapy including maraviroc (MVC). Antiretroviral-experienced patients were included in the MVC Expanded Access Program if they had an R5 screening result with Trofile (Monogram Biosciences). V3 loop sequences were determined at screening, and coreceptor use was predicted using 13 genotypic algorithms or combinations of algorithms. Genotypic predictions were compared to Trofile; dual or mixed (D/M) variants were considered as X4 variants. Both genotypic and phenotypic results were obtained for 189 patients at screening, with 54 isolates scored as X4 or D/M and 135 scored as R5 with Trofile. The highest sensitivity (59.3%) for detection of X4 was obtained with the Geno2pheno algorithm, with a false-positive rate set up at 10% (Geno2pheno10). In the 112 patients receiving MVC, a plasma viral RNA load of <50 copies/ml was obtained in 68% of cases at month 6. In multivariate analysis, the prediction of the X4 genotype at baseline with the Geno2pheno10 algorithm including baseline viral load and CD4 nadir was independently associated with a worse VR at months 1 and 3. The baseline weighted genotypic sensitivity score was associated with VR at month 6. There were strong arguments in favor of using genotypic coreceptor use assays for determining which patients would respond to CCR5 antagonist.
Double Blinding with a New Placebo Needle: A Further Validation Study
Authors: Takakura Nobuari , Takayama Miho , Kawase Akiko , Kaptchuk Ted J , Yajima Hiroyoshi
Published: June 2010

Background

The masking properties of a new, non-penetrating, double-blind placebo acupuncture needle were demonstrated. Practitioners correctly identified some of the needles; if they were confident in this opinion, they would be unblinded.

Objective

To investigate the clues that led to correct identification, and the confidence in this decision.

Methods

Ten acupuncture practitioners, blindly and randomly, applied 10 each of three types of needle to the shoulder: blunt, non-penetrating needles that pressed the skin (‘skin-touch placebo needle’); new non-penetrating needles that penetrated soft material (stuffing) but did not reach the skin (‘non-touch control needle’); matching penetrating needles. Afterwards, practitioners were asked to judge the type of needle, their confidence in their decision and what clues led them to their judgements.

Results

Of the 30 judgements made by each practitioner, the mean number of correct, incorrect and unidentifiable answers were 10.4 (SD 3.7), 15.2 (SD 4.9) and 4.4 (SD 6.1), respectively. There was no significant difference in the confidence scores for 104 correct (mean, 54.0 (SD 20.2)%) and 152 incorrect (mean, 50.3 (SD 24.3)%) judgements. Twelve needles were identified with 100% confidence—three correct, and nine incorrect. For needles correctly identified, the proportions of non-touch (p = 0.14) and skin-touch (p = 0.17), needles were no greater than chance, but the proportion of penetrating needles correctly identified exceeded chance (p < 0.01). 53% of judgements were made from the “feeling of needle insertion”, but 57% of these were wrong.

Conclusion

Practitioners had a slight tendency to guess the penetrating needles correctly, but were uncertain about most of their judgments, posing only a very small risk to double blinding.
Acupuncture for Depression and Myalgia in Patients with Hepatitis: An Observational Study
Authors: Tufan Zeliha Kocak , Arslan Hüseyin , Yildiz Fatih , Bulut Cemal , Irmak Hasan , Kinikli Sami , Demiroz Ali Pekcan
Published: June 2010

Background

Depressive symptoms and myalgia are commonly seen in patients with chronic hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis C.

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of acupuncture treatment on depressive symptoms and myalgia in patients with hepatitis.

Methods

Of 44 patients with hepatitis screened for depression and myalgia, 28 were enrolled and included in the study. The main outcome measure for depressive symptoms was Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI). For pain/myalgia, patients rated their pain on a scale from 0 to 10. Patients with a score greater than the cut-off point in either score were allocated to acupuncture treatment. The Chinese method of acupuncture was used. Treatment continued for 6 weeks.

Results

At baseline, 17/44 patients (39%) had a BDI score ≥17 and 24 (55%) had a pain score ≥5. A total of 28 patients were allocated to acupuncture treatment, forming three groups: group 1, 13 patients with high BDI and high myalgia scores; group 2, 11 patients with low BDI score but high myalgia score; group 3, 4 patients with high BDI score but low myalgia score. Adherence to treatment was good; all patients completed the sessions and there were no drop-outs. Significant improvements in end-treatment BDI and in myalgia scores compared with baseline levels was found.

Conclusion

Acupuncture seems to be a promising treatment for patients with hepatitis. Further studies are warranted in large populations to establish the therapeutic role of acupuncture.
Hepatitis C virus infection is significantly associated with malignant lymphoma in Taiwan, particularly with nodal and splenic marginal zone lymphomas
Authors: Chuang Shih-Sung , Liao Yung-Liang , Chang Sheng-Tsung , Hsieh Yen-Chuan , Kuo Szu-Yin , Lu Chin-Li , Hwang Wei-Shiou , Lin I-Hung , Tsao Chao-Jung , Huang Wen-Tsung
Published: June 2010

Aims

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a hepatotropic and lymphotropic RNA virus causally linked to lymphoma with a strong geographic variation. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of HCV and lymphoma in Taiwan, in which HCV is endemic.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with lymphoma from January 2004 to December 2008 were investigated for serum anti-HCV, and the infection rate was compared with that in healthy controls. Various lymphoma types were investigated for HCV infection. Immunohistochemistry was performed for HCV non-structural (NS)3 protein, and genotyping was performed by reverse transcriptase PCR.

Results

Thirty-eight (11.0%) of 346 patients with lymphoma were positive for anti-HCV, as compared with 15 (1.8%) of 824 healthy controls (p<0.001, χ2test) with an age-adjusted and sex-adjusted OR of 4.57 (95% CI 2.41 to 8.68). Only nodal (five of eight cases) and splenic (two of two cases) marginal zone lymphomas (MZLs) as a group were significantly associated with HCV, as compared with mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas (1 of 15; p=0.002, Fisher's exact test). All 26 anti-HCV-positive cases stained for HCV-NS3 were negative. The most common genotypes were 1b (22%) and 2a (56%), with no statistical difference from 203 patients with HCV-related chronic liver disease.

Conclusions

The incidence of HCV infection among lymphoma patients in Taiwan was significantly higher than that for healthy controls. Furthermore, non-MALT (nodal and splenic) MZL was the only group significantly associated with HCV. A larger national study is warranted to re-confirm our findings and to elucidate if any particular HCV genotypes were related to the pathogenesis of lymphoma.
Targeting the affordability of cigarettes: a new benchmark for taxation policy in low-income and-middle-income countries
Authors: Blecher Evan
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To investigate the appropriateness of tax incidence (the percentage of the retail price occupied by taxes) benchmarking in low-income and-middle-income countries (LMICs) with rapidly growing economies and to explore the viability of an alternative tax policy rule based on the affordability of cigarettes.

Design

The paper outlines criticisms of tax incidence benchmarking, particularly in the context of LMICs. It then considers an affordability-based benchmark using relative income price (RIP) as a measure of affordability. The RIP measures the percentage of annual per capita GDP required to purchase 100 packs of cigarettes. Using South Africa as a case study of an LMIC, future consumption is simulated using both tax incidence benchmarks and affordability benchmarks.

Results

I show that a tax incidence benchmark is not an optimal policy tool in South Africa and that an affordability benchmark could be a more effective means of reducing tobacco consumption in the future.

Conclusions

Although a tax incidence benchmark was successful in increasing prices and reducing tobacco consumption in South Africa in the past, this approach has drawbacks, particularly in the context of a rapidly growing LMIC economy. An affordability benchmark represents an appropriate alternative that would be more effective in reducing future cigarette consumption.
Divergence between strength indicators in packaging and cigarette engineering: a case study of Marlboro varieties in Australia and the USA
Authors: King Bill , Borland Ron , Abdul-Salaam Shadeed , Polzin Gregory , Ashley David , Watson Clifford , O'Connor Richard J
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To investigate how the tobacco industry is adapting to regulatory action in accordance with provisions of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control that targets misleading packaging and labelling. To relate the packaging and labelling of new cigarette varieties to their construction and performance.

Methods

The principal design features and tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide yields of the Marlboro ‘brand family’ in Australia were measured and compared with those of the US equivalents.

Results

Marlboro Red and Blue/Medium, could not be differentiated in preliminary tests in Australia, but were different in the USA. However, yield testing showed Marlboro Blue/Medium did not have lower tar and nicotine yields in either country, indeed being higher in Australia.

Conclusions

Colour can be used to market cigarettes as ‘milder’, independently of ISO yields and ‘Light’/’Mild’ descriptors. Banning of ‘Light’ and ‘Mild’ brand descriptors may be inadequate to end belief in less harmful cigarettes so long as the tobacco industry remains free to engineer ‘mildness’ and to use colours, other descriptors and design features to characterise varieties it wants to market as ‘milder’.
PHYSICAL CONDITIONS IN NEARBY ACTIVE GALAXIES CORRELATED WITH ULTRA-HIGH-ENERGY COSMIC RAYS DETECTED BY THE PIERRE AUGER OBSERVATORY
Authors: GUREEV SERGEY , TROITSKY SERGEY
Published: June 2010

We analyze the active-galaxy correlation reported in 2007 by the Pierre Auger Collaboration. The signal diminishes if the correlation-function approach (counting all "source–event" pairs and not only "nearest neighbors") is used, suggesting that the correlation may reveal individual sources and not their population. We analyze available data on physical conditions in these individual correlated sources and conclude that acceleration of protons to the observed energies is hardly possible in any of these galaxies, while heavier nuclei would be deflected by the Galactic magnetic field thus spoiling the correlation. Our results question the Auger interpretation of the reported anisotropy signal but do not contradict to its explanation with intermediate-mass nuclei accelerated in Cen A.
ENERGY OF SPHERICALLY SYMMETRIC SPACE–TIMES ON REGULARIZING TELEPARALLELISM
Authors: NASHED GAMAL G. L.
Published: June 2010

We calculate the total energy of an exact spherically symmetric solutions, i.e. Schwarzschild and Reissner–Nordström, using the gravitational energy–momentum 3-form within the tetrad formulation of general relativity. We explain how the effect of the inertial makes the total energy unphysical. Therefore, we use the covariant teleparallel approach which makes the energy always physical one. We also show that the inertial has no effect on the calculation of momentum.