bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoglobulin E induces VEGF production in mast cells and potentiates their pro-tumorigenic actions through a Fyn kinase-dependent mechanism
Authors: Jiménez-Andrade Guillermina Yanek , Ibarra-Sánchez Alfredo , González Diana , Lamas Mónica , González-Espinosa Claudia
Published: August 2013

Background

High concentrations of plasmatic IgE have been related to distinct systemic inflammatory conditions that frequently predispose individuals to hypersensitivity reactions. Although effects of IgE have been suggested to relay on the low-intensity activation of distinct effector elements of the immune system, such as mast cells (MC), experimental evidence on the role of IgE-induced production of inflammatory mediators on specific pathologies is scarce. MC are an important component in tumor microenvironment where they seem to secrete a number of immunomodulatory and angiogenic mediators, such as the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) by not well-described mechanisms. In this work, we investigated the effect of monomeric IgE (in the absence of antigen) on the production of VEGF in MC, analyzed if monomeric IgE could exacerbate the pro-tumorigenic properties of that cell type and characterized some of the molecular mechanisms behind the effects of IgE on VEGF production and tumor growth.

Methods

Forin vitrostudies, murine bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) were used. Pharmacological inhibitors and phosphorylation of key elements controlling VEGF secretion and protein translation were used to characterize the mechanism of VEGF production triggered by IgE.

In vivo, the effect of a single i.v. administration of monomeric IgE on B16 melanoma tumor weight, intratumoral blood vessel formation and tumor-associated MC was assessed in four groups of mice: MC-proficient (WT), MC-deficient (Wsh), Wsh reconstituted with MC derived from WT mice (Wsh Rec WT) and Wsh reconstituted with MC derived from Fyn −/− mice (Wsh Rec Fyn −/−).

Results

Monomeric IgE induced VEGF secretion through a Fyn kinase-dependent mechanism and modulatedde novoprotein synthesis modifying the activity of the translational regulator 4E-BP1 in BMMCs.In vivo, monomeric IgE increased melanoma tumor growth, peritumoral MC and blood vessel numbers in WT but not in Wsh mice. The positive effects of IgE on melanoma tumor growth were reproduced after reconstitution of Wsh mice with WT but not with Fyn −/− BMMCs.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that monomeric IgE, in the absence of antigen, induces VEGF production in MC andin vivocontributes to melanoma tumor growth through a Fyn kinase-dependent mechanism.
The freshwater reservoir effect in radiocarbon dating
Authors: Philippsen Bente
Published: August 2013

The freshwater reservoir effect can result in anomalously old radiocarbon ages of samples from lakes and rivers. This includes the bones of people whose subsistence was based on freshwater fish, and pottery in which fish was cooked. Water rich in dissolved ancient calcium carbonates, commonly known as hard water, is the most common reason for the freshwater reservoir effect. It is therefore also called hardwater effect. Although it has been known for more than 60 years, it is still less well-recognized by archaeologists than the marine reservoir effect. The aim of this study is to examine the order of magnitude and degree of variability of the freshwater reservoir effect over short and long timescales. Radiocarbon dating of recent water samples, aquatic plants, and animals, shows that age differences of up to 2000 14C years can occur within one river. The freshwater reservoir effect has also implications for radiocarbon dating of Mesolithic pottery from inland sites of the Ertebølle culture in Northern Germany. The surprisingly old ages of the earliest pottery most probably are caused by a freshwater reservoir effect. In a sediment core from the Limfjord, northern Denmark, the impact of the freshwater reservoir effect on radiocarbon dating in an estuarine environment is examined. Here, freshwater influence causes reservoir ages to vary between 250 and 700 14C years during the period 5400 BC - AD 700. The examples in this study show clearly that the freshwater reservoir effect can seriously corrupt radiocarbon dating at inland sites. Reservoir effects should therefore be considered whenever food remains on pottery or the bones of omnivores are radiocarbon dated - irrespective of the site’s distance to the coast.
Performance of photocatalytic oxidation of tetracycline in aqueous solution by TiO2 nanofibers
Authors: Javid Allahbakhsh , Nasseri Simin , Mesdaghinia Alireza , Mahvi Amir hossein , Alimohammadi Mahmood , Aghdam Rouhollah Mehdinavaz , Rastkari Noshin
Published: August 2013

The presence of pharmaceutical compounds in water and soil has become an environmental concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of TiO2 nanofiber in the oxidation of the antibiotic tetracycline. TiO2 nanofiber was fabricated by electro-spinning method, and then was calcined at 560°C for 2 h. Central composite design (CCD) statistic model was used to optimize tetracycline concentration, time and pH for TiO2 catalyst. A tubular Pyrex glass reactor with diameter of 15 cm and height of 30 cm was designed and a 125W Philips HPLN lamp (UV, λ > 254 nm) was used as light source. Samples were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Equation of model suggests a direct relationship between pH and time with efficiency of tetracycline removal. The observations indicated that time is the most significant (scaled estimate = + 28.04) parameter in efficiency of tetracycline removal. The application of response surface methodology yielded the equation of Y = 65.82 + 5.74 pH + 28.04 time + (−3.07)(pH)2 + (−6.6)(time)2, with R2 = 0.986 which represents good reliability of model. Based on the response surface plots optimum conditions for degradation of tetracycline with maximum efficiency of around 95% was attained. These conditions are as follow; concentration: 50 mg/l, pH= 8.3, time= 15 min.
CXCL13 is elevated in Sjögren's syndrome in mice and humans and is implicated in disease pathogenesis
Authors: Kramer Jill M , Klimatcheva Ekaterina , Rothstein Thomas L
Published: August 2013

SS is an autoimmune disease. pSS affects exocrine glands predominantly, whereas sSS occurs with other autoimmune connective tissue disorders. Currently, care for patients with SS is palliative, as no established therapeutics target the disease directly, and its pathogenetic mechanisms remain uncertain. B-cell abnormalities have been identified in SS. CXCL13 directs B-cell chemotaxis and is elevated in several autoimmune diseases. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that CXCL13 is elevated in SS in mice and humans and that neutralization of the chemokine ameliorates disease in a murine model. We assayed CXCL13 in mouse models and human subjects with SS to determine whether CXCL13 is elevated both locally and systemically during SS progression and whether CXCL13 may play a role in and be a biomarker for the disease. Cxcl13 expression in salivary tissue increases with disease progression, and its blockade resulted in a modest reduction in glandular inflammation in an SS model. We demonstrate that in humans CXCL13 is elevated in serum and saliva, and an elevated salivary CXCL13 level distinguishes patients with xerostomia. These data suggest a role for CXCL13 as a valuable biomarker in SS, as 74% of patients with SS displayed elevated CXCL13 in sera, saliva, or both. Thus, CXCL13 may be pathogenically involved in SS and may serve as a new marker and a potential therapeutic target.
Modulation of inflammation by interleukin-27
Authors: Bosmann Markus , Ward Peter A
Published: August 2013

A growing body of evidence suggests an essential role of the heterodimeric cytokine, IL-27, for regulating immunity. IL-27 is composed of two subunits (p28 and EBI3) and is classified as a member of the IL-12 family of cytokines. APCs have been recognized as a major cellular source of IL-27 following activation with microbial products or IFNs (types I and II). In this review, we describe the current knowledge of the implications of IL-27 during the pathogenesis of infectious and autoimmune diseases. Experimental studies have used genetically targeted IL-27RA−/− mice, EBI3−/− mice, and p28−/− mice or involved study designs with administration of bioengineered IL-27/IL-27RA homologs. Whereas many reports have described that IL-27 suppresses inflammation, we also review the current literature, suggesting promotion of inflammation by IL-27 in some settings. Recent advances have also been made in understanding the cross-talk of cleavage products of the complement system with IL-27-mediated immune responses. Additional data on IL-27 have been obtained recently by observational studies in human patients with acute and chronic inflammatory diseases. Collectively, the findings from the past decade identify IL-27 as a critical immunoregulatory cytokine, especially for T cells, whereas some controversy is fueled by results challenging the view of IL-27 as a classical silencer of inflammation.
Epistemic Teleology and the Separateness of Propositions
Authors: Berker Selim
Published: August 2013

When it comes to epistemic normativity, should we take the good to be prior to the right? That is, should we ground facts about what we ought and ought not believe on a given occasion in facts about the value of being in certain cognitive states (such as, for example, the value of having true beliefs)? The overwhelming answer among contemporary epistemologists is “Yes, we should.” This essay argues to the contrary. Just as taking the good to be prior to the right in ethics often leads one to sanction implausible trade-offs when determining what an agent should do, so too, this essay argues, taking the good to be prior to the right in epistemology leads one to sanction implausible trade-offs when determining what a subject should believe. Epistemic value—and, by extension, epistemic goals—are not the explanatory foundation upon which all other normative notions in epistemology rest.
Rab40b regulates MMP2 and MMP9 trafficking during invadopodia formation and breast cancer cell invasion
Authors: Jacob Abitha , Jing Jian , Lee James , Schedin Pepper , Gilbert Simon M. , Peden Andrew A. , Junutula Jagath R. , Prekeris Rytis
Published: August 2013

Invadopodia-dependent degradation of the basement membrane plays a major role during metastasis of breast cancer cells. Basement membrane degradation is mediated by targeted secretion of various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Specifically, MMP2 and MMP9 possess the ability to hydrolyze components of the basement membrane and were shown to regulate various aspects of tumor growth and metastasis. However, the membrane transport machinery that mediates MMP2/9 targeting to the invadopodia during cancer cell invasion remains to be defined. Since Rab GTPases are key regulators of membrane transport, we screened a human Rab siRNA library and identified Rab40b GTPase as a protein required for secretion of MMP2/9. We also have shown that Rab40b functions during at least two distinct steps of MMP2/9 transport. First, we demonstrate that Rab40b is required for MMP2/9 sorting into VAMP4-containing secretory vesicles. Second, we show that Rab40b regulates MMP2/9 secretory vesicles transport during invadopodia formation and is required for invadopodia-dependent extracellular matrix degradation. Finally, we demonstrate that Rab40b is also required for breast cancer cell invasion in vitro. Based on these findings, we propose that Rab40b mediates MMP2/9 trafficking during invadopodia formation and breast cancer cell metastasis.
Persistent Antimarket Culture: A Legacy of the Pale of Settlement after the Holocaust
Authors: Grosfeld Irena , Rodnyansky Alexander , Zhuravskaya Ekaterina
Published: August 2013

We estimate long-term effects of Jewish presence in Europe before World War II, using discontinuity at the border of the “Pale of Settlement” area where Jews were allowed to live in the Russian Empire. Current residents of the Pale have lower support for market, and are less entrepreneurial but more trusting compared to those outside the Pale. We suggest a mechanism and test for it: anti-Semitism generated persistent antimarket culture and trust among non-Jews. Consistent with this mechanism, antimarket attitudes and trust decrease with distance to pogroms controlling for historical Jewish presence. Self-identification and cohesion of majority depends on the presence of minority. (JEL J11, N33, N34, N43, N44, P10, Z12)
Incentive Schemes for Local Government: Theory and Evidence from Comprehensive Performance Assessment in England
Authors: Lockwood Ben , Porcelli Francesco
Published: August 2013

This paper studies Comprehensive Performance Assessment, an explicit incentive scheme for local government in England. Motivated by a theoretical political agency model, we predict that CPA should increase service quality and local taxation, but have an ambiguous effect on the efficiency of service provision. We test these predictions using Welsh local governments as a control group: CPA increased the property tax, and our index of service quality, but had no significant effect on efficiency overall. There is evidence of a heterogenous effect of CPA: it impacted more on councils where electoral competition was initially weak, in line with our theory. (JEL H71, H72, H75, H76, R51)
The Welfare Effects of Misperceived Product Costs: Data and Calibrations from the Automobile Market
Authors: Allcott Hunt
Published: August 2013

This analysis exploits new data from the Vehicle Ownership and Alternatives Survey, which elicits beliefs over the financial benefits of owning higher fuel economy vehicles. The data are used to test for underestimation and to document evidence of “MPG Illusion”: consumers think as if fuel costs scale linearly in miles per gallon instead of gallons per mile. Counterfactuals suggest that the MPG Illusion reduces welfare by less than $4 per new vehicle. Furthermore, even the most severe plausible underestimation of the financial benefits of fuel economy cannot account for the consumer welfare gains attributed to fuel economy standards. (JEL D12, D83, L62)
Corrigendum: Measuring the Output Responses to Fiscal Policy
Authors: Auerbach Alan J , Gorodnichenko Yuriy
Published: August 2013

The published version of our paper had an accounting mistake in the construction of one time series. This note describes the mistake and presents results based on corrected data. The revised results are very similar to those originally reported.
Moderne Ulkus-Chirurgie – Chirurgische Behandlungsoptionen
Authors: Dissemond J. , Klode J. , Stoffels I.
Published: August 2013

Einleitung: Die sozioökonomische Bedeutung des chronischen Ulcus cruris venosum ist bedingt durch die hohe Anzahl der Erkrankten, die Kosten der Diagnostik und Therapien, die Verschlechterung der Lebensqualität und des Verlustes der Arbeitsfähigkeit während der Erkrankung beträchtlich. Diese Problematik wird durch einen oft langjährigen Verlauf sowie eine hohe Rezidivneigung zusätzlich gesteigert.

Diskussion: Unter Berücksichtigung dieser Fakten, kommt den chirurgischen Therapieoptionen insbesondere bei ansonsten therapieresistenten Verläufen eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Heute steht hierfür ein umfangreiches Spektrum an interventionellen Methoden zur Verfügung. Venenchirurgie und endovenöse Verschlusstechniken sind für die Ausschaltung einer primären oder sekundären Varikosis als kausale Therapie des Ulcus cruris venosum geeignet. Die sogenannte Shave-Therapie ist bei dem Vorliegen einer Dermatolipo(faszio)sklerose die Behandlungsmethode der Wahl. Aktuelle Langzeitergebnisse zeigen gute Resultate mit Heilungsraten von 70-80 %. In Einzelfällen kann auch auf Opera-tionstechniken mit Einbeziehung der Fascia cruris zurückgegriffen werden.

Schlussfolgerung: Somit kommt sowohl der chirurgischen Lokaltherapie als auch der erweiterten, teils sehr komplexen chirurgischen Intervention insbesondere des Venensystems zunehmend eine Schlüsselrolle in modernen Gesamttherapiekonzepten der Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris venosum zu.
Versorgungswege von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden in Deutschland
Authors: Stoffels-Weindorf M. , von der Stück H. , Klode J. , Dissemond J.
Published: August 2013

Einleitung: In die Behandlungsabläufe von Patienten mit chronischen Wunden sind zu unterschiedlichen Zeitpunkten verschiedene Berufs- und Facharztgruppen involviert. Zu den Versorgungswegen der Patienten mit einem chronischen Ulcus cruris in Deutschland finden sich in der aktuellen Literatur kaum Untersuchungen.

Patienten und Methoden: Prospektiv sollten die Behandlungswege von 100 Patienten, die aufgrund eines chronischen Ulcus cruris in unserem Wundzentrum vorstellig wurden, erhoben werden. Die Datenerhebung erfolgte anamnestisch mit Hilfe eines neu entwickelten Fragebogens und – falls vorhanden – nach Durchsicht von Unterlagen.

Ergebnisse: Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris stellen sich durchschnittlich nach 17,5 Monaten nach Erstmanifestation in unserem Wundzentrum vor. Patienten mit Rezidiv kommen nach durchschnittlich 10,6 Monaten Behandlungszeitraum signifikant früher als Patienten mit Erstmanifestation (22,6 Mona-ten); Patienten mit entzündlichen Erkrankungen werden nach durchschnittlich 9,1 Mona-ten angebunden. Patienten mit stärkeren Schmerzen kommen nach 16,5 Monaten in unserem Wundzentrum, Patienten mit weniger starken Schmerzen nach 19,4 Monaten. Insgesamt 47 % der Patienten suchen als ersten Arztkontakt ihren Hausarzt, 28 % einen Dermatologen, 10 % einen Chirurgen, 3 % einen Internisten und 2 % einen Gefäßchirurgen auf. Insgesamt 10 % der Patienten stellen sich ohne vorherigen Arztkontakt direkt in unserer Ambulanz vor.

Diskussion: Unsere Daten zeigen, dass Patienten mit chronischem Ulcus cruris erst nach einem Zeitraum von durchschnittlich 1,5 Jahren, meist frustraner Therapie in einem Wundzentrum der Maximalversorgung vorstellig werden. Die wesentlichen Faktoren für eine frühzeitigere Vorstellung sind die entzündliche Genese, individuelle Vorerfahrungen sowie stärkere Schmerzen. Um Chronifizierungen zu vermeiden und die Gefahr therapierefraktärer Verläufe zu vermindern, wäre eine frühzeitigere Vorstellung von Patienten mit stagnierender Wundheilung nach spätestens 8 Wochen bei einem Spezialisten bzw. in einem Wundzentrum wünschenswert.
Medcenter Container Terminal SpA Uses Simulation in Housekeeping Operations
Authors: Legato Pasquale , Mazza Rina Mary , Trunfio Roberto
Published: August 2013

Within a maritime container terminal, we refer to the operations required to reposition containers in the storage yard as housekeeping. The objective of housekeeping operations, which are typically performed a few hours prior to boarding time, is to accelerate container loading on outgoing vessels. In this paper, we describe our experiences in modeling and simulating the housekeeping process and integrating the related simulation tool into the existing container management system at Medcenter Container Terminal SpA (MCT), the company that runs the container terminal at the port of Gioia Tauro, Italy. MCT planners use this operations research tool to perform quantitative analysis of different scenarios to evaluate alternative policies and rules for housekeeping; hence, they can provide more rapid container loading for shipping companies.
A Unifying Approximate Dynamic Programming Model for the Economic Lot Scheduling Problem
Authors: Adelman Daniel , Barz Christiane
Published: August 2013

We formulate the well-known economic lot scheduling problem (ELSP) with sequence-dependent setup times and costs as a semi-Markov decision process. Using an affine approximation of the bias function, we obtain a semi-infinite linear program determining a lower bound for the minimum average cost rate. Under a very mild condition, we can reduce this problem to a relatively small convex quadratically constrained linear problem by exploiting the structure of the objective function and the state space. This problem is equivalent to the lower bound problem derived by Dobson [Dobson G (1992) The cyclic lot scheduling problem with sequence-dependent setups. Oper. Res. 40:736–749] and reduces to the well-known lower bound problem introduced in Bomberger [Bomberger EE (1966) A dynamic programming approach to a lot size scheduling problem. Management Sci. 12:778–784] for sequence-dependent setups. We thus provide a framework that unifies previous work, and opens new paths for future research on tighter lower bounds and dynamic heuristics.
Correlation Decay in Random Decision Networks
Authors: Gamarnik David , Goldberg David A. , Weber Theophane
Published: August 2013

We consider a decision network on an undirected graph in which each node corresponds to a decision variable, and each node and edge of the graph is associated with a reward function whose value depends only on the variables of the corresponding nodes. The goal is to construct a decision vector that maximizes the total reward. This decision problem encompasses a variety of models, including maximum-likelihood inference in graphical models (Markov Random Fields), combinatorial optimization on graphs, economic team theory, and statistical physics. The network is endowed with a probabilistic structure in which rewards are sampled from a distribution. Our aim is to identify sufficient conditions on the network structure and rewards distributions to guarantee average-case polynomiality of the underlying optimization problem. Additionally, we wish to characterize the efficiency of a decentralized solution generated on the basis of local information.

We construct a new decentralized algorithm called Cavity Expansion and establish its theoretical performance for a variety of graph models and reward function distributions. Specifically, for certain classes of models we prove that our algorithm is able to find a near-optimal solution with high probability in a decentralized way. The success of the algorithm is based on the network exhibiting a certain correlation decay (long-range independence) property, and we prove that this property is indeed exhibited by the models of interest. Our results have the following surprising implications in the area of average-case complexity of algorithms. Finding the largest independent (stable) set of a graph is a well known NP-hard optimization problem for which no polynomial time approximation scheme is possible even for graphs with largest connectivity equal to three unless P = NP. Yet we show that the closely related Maximum Weight Independent Set problem for the same class of graphs admits a PTAS when the weights are independently and identically distributed with the exponential distribution. Namely, randomization of the reward function turns an NP-hard problem into a tractable one.
Closed-Form Expansion, Conditional Expectation, and Option Valuation
Authors: Li Chenxu
Published: August 2013

Enlightened by the theory of Watanabe [Watanabe S (1987) Analysis of Wiener functionals (Malliavin calculus) and its applications to heat kernels. Ann. Probab. 15:1–39] for analyzing generalized random variables and its further development in Yoshida [Yoshida N (1992a) Asymptotic expansions for statistics related to small diffusions. J. Japan Statist. Soc. 22:139–159], Takahashi [Takahashi A (1995) Essays on the valuation problems of contingent claims. Ph.D. thesis, Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley, Takahashi A (1999) An asymptotic expansion approach to pricing contingent claims. Asia-Pacific Financial Markets 6:115–151] as well as Kunitomo and Takahashi [Kunitomo N, Takahashi A (2001) The asymptotic expansion approach to the valuation of interest rate contingent claims. Math. Finance 11(1):117–151, Kunitomo N, Takahashi A (2003) On validity of the asymptotic expansion approach in contingent claim analysis. Ann. Appl. Probab. 13(3):914–952] etc., we focus on a wide range of multivariate diffusion models and propose a general probabilistic method of small-time asymptotic expansions for approximating option price in simple closed-form up to an arbitrary order. To explicitly construct correction terms, we introduce an efficient algorithm and novel closed-form formulas for calculating conditional expectation of multiplication of iterated stochastic integrals, which are potentially useful in a wider range of topics in applied probability and stochastic modeling for operations research. The performance of our method is illustrated through various models nested in constant elasticity of variance type processes. With an application in pricing options on VIX under GARCH diffusion and its multifactor generalization to the Gatheral double lognormal stochastic volatility models, we demonstrate the versatility of our method in dealing with analytically intractable non-Lévy and non-affine models. The robustness of the method is theoretically supported by justifying uniform convergence of the expansion over the whole set of parameters.
Market Competition and Greening Transportation of Airlines Under the Emission Trading Scheme: A Case of Duopoly Market
Authors: Sheu Jiuh-Biing , Li Fang
Published: August 2013

In response to the growing need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions worldwide, the emission trading scheme (ETS) has become one of the most efficient instruments to reduce GHG emissions. For example, the European Union (EU) now charges a carbon emission fee to airlines flying into or out of EU airports. This work investigates the effect of carbon permits (CPs) under the cap-and-trade scheme on competition and green transportation strategies of global airlines using a behavioral economics approach. One feature of the proposed model is that passenger attitudes toward green transportation service with perceived uncertainties are conceptualized into airline response functions to characterize how airlines respond to the CP instrument via pricing and investments in green transportation. Qualitative analyses and a numerical study of the ETS-CP instrument provide important managerial insights into airline repricing and green transportation investment strategies. Most importantly, this work generates a relationship between the green transportation and consumer behavior fields via behavioral economics theory.
Allergy testing in the dog and cat
Authors: Scarff David H
Published: August 2013

Allergic skin diseases are amongst the most common reasons for the presentation of dogs and cats to a veterinarian. Unfortunately, there is a great deal of similarity in the clinical signs associated with these diseases. In this article, the role of intradermal and serological allergy testing in the diagnosis and management of allergic skin diseases is reviewed, together with other diagnostic approaches.
Claw disease in dogs: part 2 – diagnosis and management of specific claw diseases
Authors: Warren Sarah
Published: August 2013

Because of the numerous causes of claw and claw fold diseases in the dog, it is obvious that a wide variety of diagnostic tests or procedures may be indicated in order to narrow down a large list of possible differential diagnoses. Furthermore, effective management is most accurately instituted when a specific diagnosis is determined, which may be challenging in some cases, and especially in those of symmetrical disease.
Effect of shockwave therapy on plantar fasciopathy
Authors: Hsu W-H. , Lai L-J. , Chang H-Y. , Hsu R. W-W.
Published: August 2013

It has been suggested that extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a safe and effective treatment for pain relief from recalcitrant plantar fasciopathy (PF). However, the changes in gait and associated biomechanical parameters have not been well characterised. We recruited 12 female patients with recalcitrant PF who had a mean age of 59 years (50 to 70) and mean body mass index of 25 kg/m2 (22 to 30). The patients reported a mean duration of symptoms of 9.3 months (6 to 15). Shockwave therapy consisting of 1500 impulses (energy flux density 0.26 mJ/mm2) was applied for three sessions, each three weeks apart. A pain visual analogue scale (VAS) rating, plantar pressure assessment and motion analysis were carried out before and nine weeks after first shock wave therapy. It was demonstrated that patients increased their walking velocity and cadence as well indicating a decrease in pain after shockwave therapy. In the symptomatic foot, the peak contact pressure over the forefoot increased and the contact area over the digits decreased. The total foot impulse also decreased as did stance duration. The duration the centre of pressure remained in the hindfoot increased in the symptomatic foot after shockwave therapy. The differences in centre of pressure trajectory at baseline decreased at final follow-up. In conclusion, shockwave therapy not only decreased the pain VAS rating but also improved the gait parameters of the symptomatic foot in PF patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1088–93.
The Canadian Arthroplasty Society’s experience with hip resurfacing arthroplasty
Authors: Arthroplasty Society Canadian
Published: August 2013

The purpose of this study was twofold: first, to determine whether the five-year results of hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) in Canada justified the continued use of HRA; and second, to identify whether greater refinement of patient selection was warranted.

This was a retrospective cohort study that involved a review of 2773 HRAs performed between January 2001 and December 2008 at 11 Canadian centres. Cox’s proportional hazards models were used to analyse the predictors of failure of HRA. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to predict the cumulative survival rate at five years. The factors analysed included age, gender, body mass index, pre-operative hip pathology, surgeon’s experience, surgical approach, implant sizes and implant types. The most common modes of failure were also analysed.

The 2773 HRAs were undertaken in 2450 patients: 2127 in men and 646 in women. The mean age at operation was 50.5 years (sd 8.72; 18 to 82) and mean follow-up was 3.4 years (sd 2.1; 2.0 to 10.1). At the last follow-up a total of 101 HRAs (3.6%) required revision. Using revision for all causes of failure as the endpoint, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed a cumulative survival of 96.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) 96.1 to 96.9) at five years. With regard to gender, the five-year overall survival was 97.4% in men (95% CI 97.1 to 97.7) and 93.6% in women (95% CI 92.6 to 94.6). Female gender, smaller femoral components, specific implant types and a diagnosis of childhood hip problems were associated with higher rates of failure. The most common cause of failure was fracture of the femoral neck, followed by loosening of the femoral component.

The failure rates of HRA at five years justify the ongoing use of this technique in men. Female gender is an independent predictor of failure, and a higher failure rate at five years in women leads the authors to recommend this technique only in exceptional circumstances for women.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1044–50.
Arthroscopy
Authors: Cakic J. N.
Published: August 2013

Arthroscopy has become a routine surgical procedure, used as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for the treatment of joint problems. This article discusses its origins and looks at how it is currently used.
The Role of Community Rehabilitation Providers in Employment for Persons With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Results of the 2010–2011 National Survey
Authors: Domin Daria , Butterworth John
Published: August 2013

Based on the 2010–2011 National Survey of Community Rehabilitation Providers, findings are presented on people with all disabilities and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are served in employment and nonwork settings by community rehabilitation providers. Findings suggest little change over the past eight years in participation in integrated employment. Overall, 28% of all individuals and 19% of individuals with IDD were reported to receive individual integrated employment services. The results suggest that 15% of individuals with IDD work in individual integrated jobs for pay. Group supported employment continues to play a smaller but significant role in employment supports, with almost 10% of individuals with IDD participating in enclaves or mobile work crews. Data do reflect a decline in participation in facility-based work for individuals with IDD, from 41% to 27.5% and a concurrent growth in participation in nonwork services to 43% of all purchased services.
“A Kid Way”: Strategies for Including Classmates With Learning or Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Nowicki Elizabeth A. , Brown Jason D.
Published: August 2013

Thirty-six children between 9 and 12 years of age were invited to share their ideas on how to socially include classmates with learning or intellectual disabilities at school. Participants generated 80 strategies which were categorized into seven major themes. Thematic categories focused on the need for teachers to intervene in academic and social situations, child-to-child instructional strategies, being supportive, focusing on similarities between children with and without disabilities, modelling appropriate behaviors and intervening in negative interactions, structured inclusive activities, and noninclusive activities. Participants were aware of the challenges experienced by classmates with disabilities, and recognized the need to work with classmates and teachers towards the social inclusion of children with intellectual and learning disabilities. Educational implications are addressed.
Synthesis and biological activity of 6-substituted 5-acetyl-4,7-dimethoxybenzofuran derivatives
Authors: Krawiecka Mariola , Kuran Bożena , Kossakowski Jerzy , Kierzkowska Marta , Młynarczyk Grażyna , Kazmierczak-Barańska Julia , Królewska Karolina , Cieślak Marcin
Published: August 2013

In the search for new antimicrobial and anticancer agents, a series of (aryl/heteroaryl-piperazino-alkyl)-substituted derivatives of benzo[b]furans were prepared. All compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI-MS spectra and elemental analyses. Most of the investigated compounds had no antimicrobial activity (MIC > 512 mg/L) except for 2l, 2m and 2o, which showed activity against Candida albicans. None of the tested compounds showed significant anticancer activity in K562 and HeLa cells.
Facile synthesis of new thermally stable and organo-soluble polyamide-imides from phosphorus-containing aromatic amines and various dianhydrides
Authors: Agrawal Seema , Narula Anudeep Kumar
Published: August 2013

Imide ring containing novel polyamide-imides (PAIs) were prepared by triphenyl phosphite-activated polycondensation of phosphorus-containing aromatic amines, bis(3-aminophenyl) isopropyl phosphine (BAP) and bis(3-aminophenyl) aminotolyl phosphine (TAP), with various diimide-diacids (DIDAS). All polymers were fully characterized by FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, 31P-NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. These polymers showed no significant weight loss below 419°C and glass transition temperatures (Tg) in the region of 231°C–290°C. The resulting polymeric films exhibited high optical transparency. The inherent viscosity of the synthesized polymers was in the range 0.55–0.85 dl/g and wide angle X-ray diffraction measurements revealed that these polymers were predominantly amorphous.
Mechanisms underlying cortical resonant states: implications for levodopa-induced dyskinesia
Authors: Richter Ulrike , Halje Pär , Petersson Per
Published: August 2013

A common observation in recordings of neuronal activity from the cerebral cortex is that populations of neurons show patterns of synchronized oscillatory activity. However, it has been suggested that neuronal synchronization can, in certain pathological conditions, become excessive and possibly have a pathogenic role. In particular, aberrant oscillatory activation patterns have been implicated in conditions involving cortical dysfunction. We here review the mechanisms thought to be involved in the generation of cortical oscillations and discuss their relevance in relation to a recent finding indicating that high-frequency oscillations in the cerebral cortex have an important role in the generation of levodopa-induced dyskinesia. On the basis of these insights, it is suggested that the identification of physiological changes associated with symptoms of disease is a particularly important first step toward a more rapid development of novel treatment strategies.
Mechanical and fracture toughness behavior of TiO2-filled A384 metal alloy composites
Authors: Gangwar Swati , Kukshal Vikas , Patnaik Amar , Singh Tej
Published: August 2013

In the present study, A384 alloy composites filled with titanium dioxide (TiO2) were fabricated by the stir casting technique by varying the filler percentages from 0 to 8 wt.-% at an interval of 2 wt.-%, respectively. This study focused on the physical, mechanical, and fracture behavior of unfilled and particulate-filled alloy composites. Void content (%) and hardness were found to increase from 2.22% to 3.02% and from 35.5 to 62.5 Hv, respectively, with the increased filler contents (0 to 8 wt.-%) for the micro-TiO2-filled A384 metal alloy composite. However, mechanical properties such as tensile strength, tensile modulus, and flexural strength showed a decreasing trend for experimental and finite element simulated results. An X-ray diffraction technique was used to study the constituent material present in the composites. The stress intensity factors of the fabricated composites were studied both experimentally and by the finite element method technique. The highest value of stress intensity factor was observed to be 40 MPa.vm for 4 wt.-% micro-TiO2-filled alloy composite at 9-mm crack length. A three-dimensional simulation of the fabricated composite using the unit cell model was developed in ANSYS using appropriate boundary conditions for tensile and flexural strength.
Ventral Abdominal Wall Defects
Authors: Kastenberg Zachary J. , Dutta Sanjeev
Published: August 2013

Omphalocele and gastroschisis are the two most common congenital abdominal wall defects requiring neonatal intensive care. Historically treated as a single entity, they represent two distinct pathologies with different clinical management algorithms and associated outcomes. With improvements in prenatal diagnosis, neonatal intensive care, and pediatric surgical practices, good long-term outcomes are possible in the absence of catastrophic bowel injury or debilitating associated anomalies.
Keep up with the changes
Authors: Dubber Andrew
Published: August 2013

This article reports and reflects upon the approaches, challenges and opportunities within the online environment as experienced and expressed by representatives of national music centres and jazz agencies within Europe. Comparisons of national approaches reveal differences in thinking about the role of the state and public funding in the arts in general—and jazz in particular—as well as the different ways in which these sorts of institutional schemata (in the Kantian sense) are implemented and enacted through a range of online communication platforms. Through the application of a critical frame drawn from the fields of Digital Media Studies and Media Ecology, these case studies and the discursive practices they reveal provide the occasion for not merely reflecting upon the affordances and effectivities of the online environment for national jazz organizations, but also to inform further potential developments of existing and future web offerings by these agencies.
Flutuação populacional e distribuição de Sitophilus zeamais em pomares de pessegueiro e macieira
Authors: Nörnberg Sandro Daniel , Nava Dori Edson , Grützmacher Anderson Dionei , Bento José Maurício Simões , Ozelame Ângelo Luis , Hübner Lucas Kuhn
Published: August 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a flutuação populacional de Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) e determinar a distribuição deste inseto-praga nas plantas de pessegueiro e macieira na região de Pelotas, no Rio Grande do Sul. A flutuação populacional foi avaliada nas safras 2009/2010 e 2010/2011, por meio de monitoramento semanal com armadilhas dos pomares, durante aproximadamente cinco meses. Foram usadas dez armadilhas do tipo Pet-milho por hectare, posicionadas a 1,7 m do solo, distribuídas de maneira equidistante nas bordas e no centro do pomar. A distribuição do inseto nas plantas foi avaliada nos frutos dos terços superior, mediano e inferior das plantas, na cultivar de maçã Eva e nas cultivares de pêssego Sensação (ciclo precoce), Eldorado (ciclo tardio) e Eragil (ciclo tardio). Em macieira, o ataque de S. zeamais ocorreu por cinco a sete semanas, e, em pessegueiro, por três a quatro semanas. Foi observado maior número de S. zeamais machos no início da infestação dos pomares, principalmente nos frutos do terço superior das plantas. Nas semanas seguintes, a maior infestação de frutos se deu no terço médio. O ataque de Sitophilus zeamais ocorre tanto em cultivares precoces como em tardias de pessegueiro, com pico de ataque no período de colheita.
The roles of competition and habitat in the dynamics of populations and species distributions
Authors: Yackulic Charles B. , Reid Janice , Nichols James D. , Hines James E. , Davis Raymond , Forsman Eric
Published: August 2013

The role of competition in structuring biotic communities at fine spatial scales is well known from detailed process‐based studies. Our understanding of competition's importance at broader scales is less resolved and mainly based on static species distribution maps. Here, we bridge this gap by examining the joint occupancy dynamics of an invading species (Barred Owl,Strix varia) and a resident species (Northern Spotted Owl,Strix occidentalis caurina) in a 1000‐km2study area over a 22‐year period. Past studies of these competitors have focused on the dynamics of one species at a time, hindering efforts to parse out the roles of habitat and competition and to forecast the future of the resident species. In addition, while these studies accounted for the imperfect detection of the focal species, no multi‐season analysis of these species has accounted for the imperfect detection of the secondary species, potentially biasing inference. We analyzed survey data using models that combine the general multistate–multi‐season occupancy modeling framework with autologistic modeling, allowing us to account for important aspects of our study system.

We found that local extinction probability increases for each species when the other is present; however, the effect of the invader on the resident is greater. Although the species prefer different habitats, these habitats are highly correlated at the patch scale, and the impacts of invader on the resident are greatest in patches that would otherwise be optimal. As a consequence, competition leads to a weaker relationship between habitat and Northern Spotted Owl occupancy. Colonization and extinction rates of the invader are closely related to neighborhood occupancy, and over the first half of the study the availability of colonists limited the rate of population growth. Competition is likely to exclude the resident species, both through its immediate effects on local extinction and by indirectly lowering colonization rates as Northern Spotted Owl occupancy declines. Our analysis suggests that dispersal limitation affects both the invasion dynamics and the scale at which the effects of competition are observed. We also provide predictions regarding the potential costs and benefits of managing Barred Owl populations at different target levels.
Immediate Placement and Restoration of an Implant in an Infected Socket in the Esthetic Zone
Authors: Furtado Araújo Michel V. , Sommerville Donald , Dhingra Ajay , Schincaglia Gian Pietro
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Despite recent reports on immediate implant placement in infected sockets, it remains unclear whether positive functional and esthetic results are repeatable in treating teeth with periapical infections. This case report describes important diagnostic factors and decision‐making steps in the treatment planning of a fractured tooth with a periapical lesion in the anterior maxilla.

Case Presentation: A healthy, non‐smoking 36‐year‐old male patient presented with the chief complaint of trauma to the right maxillary central incisor. Radiographs displayed horizontal root fracture and a periapical lesion. Treatment comprised extraction of the fractured tooth with minimal trauma, followed by immediate implant placement and provisionalization. Clinical and radiographic analyses at 12 months after surgery showed maintenance of soft‐ and hard‐tissue configuration and symmetry with the contralateral tooth.

Conclusions: A multidisciplinary approach and careful case selection are of utmost importance for the successful treatment of challenging implant therapy. This case report shows esthetic and functional results 1 year after the immediate placement and functional loading of an implant in an infected socket in the esthetic zone.
Interspecific Relationships between White Clover, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Canada Thistle during Establishment
Authors: Gabruck Danielle T. , Bork Edward W. , Hall Linda M. , King Jane R. , Hare Donald D.
Published: August 2013

Forage establishment on fallow fields may be reduced by re‐colonization and associated competition from hard to control perennial weeds that reproduce from residual root fragments. We assessed the competitive relationships between regenerating Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense L.) (CT) root fragments and seedlings of white clover (Trifolium repens L.) (WC), and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) (KBG). Two greenhouse trials were conducted, each comparing 10 combinations of all three species grown in monoculture, or together (1:1:1 ratio), or in 1:2 and 2:1 binary mixtures in all possible combinations. All treatments were additionally done at two planting densities. After establishment, plants were grown for 70 d and assessed for biomass of all three species, as well as thistle shoot densities. Results from the two trials were similar. Canada thistle consistently produced the greatest biomass, and was more susceptible to intraspecific competition than competition from adjacent forage plants. Seedlings of neighboring WC were more effective competitors than KBG in reducing final thistle biomass and shoot density. White clover was also more likely to maintain shoot and root biomass under increasing weed presence. These results highlight the importance of reducing CT populations before forage seeding, as well as incorporating species such as WC that may be more tolerant of competition from the weed during the initial establishment period.