bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of blackleg and tuber soft rot of potato caused by Pectobacterium and Dickeya species: a review
Authors: Czajkowski R. , Pérombelon M. C. M. , van Veen J. A. , van der Wolf J. M.
Published: May 2011

This paper briefly reviews research on the causative agents of blackleg and soft rot diseases of potato, namely Pectobacterium and Dickeya species, and the disease syndrome, including epidemiological and aetiological aspects. It critically evaluates control methods used in practice based on the avoidance of the contamination of plants, in particular the use of seed testing programmes and the application of hygienic procedures during crop production. It considers the perspective of breeding and genetic modification to introduce resistance. It also evaluates the application of physical and chemical tuber treatments to reduce inoculum load and examines the possibility of biocontrol using antagonistic bacteria and bacteriophages.
Classification of anaphylaxis and utility of the EAACI Taskforce position paper on Anaphylaxis in Children
Authors: Vetander Mirja , Helander Daiva , Lindquist Charlotta , Hedlin Gunilla , Alfvén Tobias , Östblom Eva , Nilsson Caroline , Lilja Gunnar , Wickman Magnus
Published: May 2011

To cite this article: Vetander M, Helander D, Lindquist C, Hedlin G, Alfvén T, Östblom E, Nilsson C, Lilja G, Wickman M. Classification of anaphylaxis and utility of the EAACI Taskforce position paper on Anaphylaxis in Children.Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011;: 369–373.

Correct management and classification of anaphylaxis is mandatory. Records of emergency department (ED) visits to any of the three pediatric hospitals in Stockholm, because of reactions to foods during 2007, were identified. A retrospective analysis of clinical ED records of 371 children with 381 unique occasions of reactions to foods was performed. Symptoms/signs of reactions to foods recorded for classification of anaphylaxis were related to those presented in the EAACI Taskforce position paper on Anaphylaxis in Children (Allergy 2007; 62: 857). Forty‐six different symptoms/signs of reactions to foods were retrieved. Several severe signs or symptoms from the respiratory tract and signs indicating reduced brain perfusion were not described in detail in the EAACI paper, hampering correct classification of anaphylaxis including grading of severity in our material. After modification of the EAACI classification including such signs and symptoms, we were able to classify 128 (35%) children with anaphylaxis. Seventy children (19%) did not fulfill our modified EAACI’s criteria for anaphylaxis. They had been given adrenaline before or at arrival to hospital, possibly preventing anaphylaxis. Another 173 (47%) children/adolescents had neither been given adrenalin, nor fulfilled the criteria for anaphylaxis. Classification of food‐induced anaphylaxis and severity grading should be built on signs and symptoms to facilitate diagnosis. The existing EAACI tool is helpful, but for Swedish children it is not quite applicable, in particular because of the lack of description of some respiratory, neurological or possible cardiovascular signs and symptoms.
IL‐22 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from allergic rhinitic and asthmatic pediatric patients
Authors: Farfariello Valerio , Amantini Consuelo , Nabissi Massimo , Morelli Maria Beatrice , Aperio Cristiana , Caprodossi Sara , Carlucci Antonio , Bianchi Anna Maria , Santoni Giorgio
Published: May 2011

To cite this article: Farfariello V, Amantini C, Nabissi M, Morelli MB, Aperio C, Caprodossi S, Carlucci A, Bianchi AM, Santoni G. IL‐22 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from allergic rhinitic and asthmatic pediatric patients. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011;: 419–423.

T helper (TH)‐17 lymphocytes are characterized by the expression of many regulatory cytokines, including IL‐17A and IL‐22, but at present no clinical data are available on the expression of these cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from allergic asthmatic and rhinitic (AR) children. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible relationship between IL‐22 and IL‐17A mRNAs and clinical parameters in seroatopic, AR, and asthmatic children. The study, conduced during the pollen season, included 18 healthy and 18 allergic (n = 9 asthmatic and n = 9 rhinitic) children. Serum total and specific IgE, eosinophil count, and skin prick test were performed; in addition, IL‐22 and IL‐17A mRNA levels were detected in PBMC from healthy and allergic subjects by quantitative real‐time PCR. Despite the absence of the mRNA for the IL‐17A cytokine, IL‐22 expression was found in PBMC from asthmatic patients, with increased IL‐22 mRNA levels in patients with chronic severe respect to those with moderate asthma. A positive correlation between IL‐22 mRNA and serum total IgE levels was found in asthmatic children. In addition, higher IL‐22 and IL‐17A mRNA levels were detected in both AR and asymptomatic seroatopic children, compared to healthy individuals, and a correlation between IL‐22 and IL17A mRNA and serum total IgE levels was demonstrated. Moreover, the mRNA level of retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor C, the TH17 transcription factor, was found to be increased in AR but not in asthmatic patients. This study provides the first evidence that IL‐22 mRNA might be expressed in chronic severe asthmatic and AR children. The expression of IL‐22 and IL‐17A mRNAs in asymptomatic monosensitized seroatopic children suggests a role of these cytokines in the early events involved in the development of these allergic diseases.
Pediatric allergy and immunology in Turkey
Authors: Celik Gülfem , Bakirtas Arzu , Sackesen Cansin , Reisli İsmail , Tuncer Ayfer
Published: May 2011

To cite this article: Celik G, Bakirtas A, Sackesen C, Reisli İ, Tuncer A. Pediatric allergy and immunology in Turkey. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 440–448.

Allergic diseases constitute a significant health problem in Turkey. According to a recent multicenter study, which used the ISAAC questionnaire, the mean prevalence of wheezing, rhinoconjunctivitis, and eczema in 10‐yr‐old school children during the past year was 15.8%, 23.5%, and 8.1%, respectively. A healthcare level system, regulated by Ministry of Health, is available in Turkey. Pediatric allergists and pediatric immunologists provide patient care at the tertiary level. Currently, 48 centers deliver care for allergic and immunologic diseases in children. There are 136 pediatric and 61 adult allergists/immunologists. Although the number of allergy/clinical immunology specialists is limited, these centers are capable of delivering many of the procedures required for the proper management and diagnosis of allergy/immunology.

Pediatric allergy and/or immunology is a subspecialty lasting 3 yr and follows a 4‐yr pediatric specialist training. Fellow training involves gaining knowledge in basic and clinical allergy and immunology as well as the performance and interpretation of laboratory procedures in the field of allergy and clinical immunology.

The Turkish National Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (TNSACI) was officially established in 1989 and currently has 356 members. The society organizes a national congress annually and winter schools for fellowship training as well as training courses for patients and their relatives. TNSACI also has a strong representation in European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) and European Society for Immunodeficiencies (ESID) through its participation in the executive committee, consensus reports, and initiatives in the diagnosis of allergic and immunologic diseases of children. The 30th Congress of the EAACI is also due to be held in Istanbul, Turkey, between June 11 and 15, 2011.
Efficacy of tiotropium in COPD patients from Asia: A subgroup analysis from the UPLIFT trial
Authors: FUKUCHI YOSHINOSUKE , FERNANDEZ LENORA , KUO HAN‐PIN , MAHAYIDDIN AZIAH , CELLI BARTOLOME , DECRAMER MARC , KESTEN STEVEN , LIU DACHENG , TASHKIN DONALD
Published: May 2011

Background and objective:  Studies in respiratory diseases other than chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suggest potentially differing responses to medications among patients from different regions. We report a subgroup analysis of patients recruited to Asian centres from a previously reported 4‐year COPD trial.

Methods:  Subgroup analysis from a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial of tiotropium 18 µg daily in COPD. Primary end‐point was rate of decline in FEV1. Secondary end‐points included spirometry at individual time points, health‐related quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire), exacerbations and mortality.

Results:  Of 5992 patients, 362 were from Asian centres (100 from Japan). Mean age 66 years, 95% men, 13% current smokers, BMI: 21 kg/m2; post‐bronchodilator FEV1: 44% predicted; St George's Respiratory Questionnaire total score: 44 units. No treatment effect was observed for rate of decline in FEV1 although annual decline was less in Asian patients. Morning pre‐bronchodilator FEV1 and forced vital capacity improved in Asian patients (P < 0.05). Tiotropium reduced number of exacerbations (rate ratio (95% confidence interval (CI)): 0.73 (0.57–0.94)). Hazard ratios (95%CI) for exacerbations and hospitalized exacerbations (tiotropium/control) were 0.81 (0.62–1.05) and 0.85 (0.61–1.19), respectively. St George's Respiratory Questionnaire total score improved by 1.5–6.1 units (P < 0.05 for months 18, 24, 30 and 36) with tiotropium. Fatal events occurred in 34 tiotropium (18.5%) and 42 control (23.6%) patients.

Conclusions:  In COPD patients from Asia, tiotropium improves lung function, improves health‐related quality of life and reduces exacerbations over 4 years of treatment.
Vesicovaginal fistula following large‐loop excision of the transformation zone in a chronic systemic glucocorticoid user
Authors: Park Kyung Eui , Ku Seung‐Yup , Kim Hee Seung , Kwak Cheol , Kim Seok Hyun , Choi Young Min , Kim Jung Gu , Moon Shin Yong
Published: May 2011

A 42‐year‐old woman with a history of a large‐loop excision of transformation zone for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia III four years previously visited our outpatient department for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia I that newly detected by colposcopy‐directed punch biopsy. Her other medical conditions include systemic lupus erythematosus on daily prednisolone 15 mg during 19 years. After second large‐loop excision of transformation zone, delayed vesicovaginal fistula was confirmed by indigo carmine leakage test, computed tomography scan, and cystoscopy. Fistula was primarily repaired with indwelling double‐J catheters with anchoring omentum on suture site.
Prevalence and risk of metabolic syndrome in adolescent Indian girls with polycystic ovary syndrome using the 2009 ‘joint interim criteria’
Authors: Bhattacharya Sudhindra M. , Jha Ayan
Published: May 2011

Aim:  Our objective was to study the prevalence and risk of metabolic syndrome (MS) among adolescent Indian girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), compared to those without, as per the recent ‘joint interim statement’ criteria. We also aimed to compare the selected study parameters across PCOS adolescents with and without MS.

Material & Methods:  Cross‐sectional data of 96 adolescent girls were retrospectively analyzed applying the 2009 ‘joint interim criteria’ for MS. Fifty‐one of them were diagnosed with PCOS as per the Androgen excess society criteria 2006. The remaining 45 adolescent girls (no androgen excess manifestations and regular cycles) formed the comparison group.

Results:  The prevalence of MS among adolescents with PCOS (60.78%; 95% CI = 50.78%, 70.78%) was significantly more compared to those without (P = 0.002). The odds ratio of MS among PCOS adolescents was 4.26 (95% CI = 1.79, 10.15). Only the mean waist circumference differed significantly between the PCOS and non‐PCOS groups (P = 0.046). Interestingly, the contrast between the MS and non‐MS subgroups of the PCOS adolescent sample produced significant differences in body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure and biochemical parameters such as fasting plasma glucose, high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Conclusion:  Adolescent Indian girls with PCOS were reported to have 4.26 times more chances of developing MS compared to those without. Waist circumference was found to be the cheapest and simplest significant marker of MS. The study underlines the need for routine screening of MS among adolescent girls suffering from PCOS to reduce future co‐morbidities.
Distribution of human papillomavirus type 16 E6 and E7 gene variants in the progression of cervical dysplasia in Korean women
Authors: Lee Chung‐Won , Bae Jeong‐Hoon , Lee Sung‐Jong , Ho Eun‐Mi , Lee Il‐Han , Park Yong‐Gyu , Park Jong‐Sup
Published: May 2011

Aim:  This cross‐sectional, hospital‐based study examined the distribution of human papillomavirus 16 E6 and E7 gene variants in Korean women with cervical lesions of varying degrees.

Material & Methods:  One hundred and forty‐one Korean women (median age 43 years; range 22–65 years) with human papillomavirus 16 single infections were included. The human papillomavirus 16 E6/E7 sequences were amplified from cytology specimens. The distribution of human papillomavirus 16 variations with respect to cervical lesion was examined by the exact Mantel–Haenszel linear trend test (Ptrend) and Fisher's exact test (P).

Results:  Human papillomavirus 16 E6 and E7 gene variants were identified in a total of 100 women (70.9%). The most prevalent human papillomavirus 16 variants were E6 Thymine178Guanine (number = 70, 49.6%) and E7 Adenine647Guanine (number = 75, 53.2%). Human papillomavirus 16 E6 Thymine178Guanine and E7 Adenine647Guanine were significantly related to the degree of cervical neoplasia (Ptrend = 0.0002, P < 0.0001; Ptrend < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, respectively). The odds ratio of human papillomavirus 16 E6 Thymine178Guanine to predict progression to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2‐3 and invasive cancer was 2.37 (95% confidence interval 1.03–5.45) and 9.07 (95% confidence interval 2.86–28.72), respectively. The odds ratio of E7 Adenine647Guanine to predict progression to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2‐3 and invasive cancer was 3.65 (95% confidence interval 1.16–8.51) and 9.07 (95% confidence interval 2.86–28.72), respectively.

Conclusion:  The distribution of HPV variants appears to be related to geographic difference. Human papillomavirus 16 E6 Thymine178Guanine and E7 Adenine647Guanine can be used as the candidate marker for the progression of the cervical neoplasia.
Fetal nuchal translucency thickness in different cut‐off points for aneuploidy screening in the south of Vietnam
Authors: Tomai Xuan‐Hong , Schaaps Jean‐Pierre , Foidart Jean‐Michel
Published: May 2011

Aims:  The purpose of this study was to define the most suitable cut‐off point for fetal nuchal translucency thickness in a screening program for aneuploidy and trisomy 21 in the south of Vietnam.

Material & Methods:  Two thousand and five hundred cases of singleton pregnancies were followed prospectively from the first trimester to the delivery. The rate of aneuploidy was calculated by seeking a relationship to increased fetal nuchal translucency thickness then calculating the sensitivity and specificity of different cut‐off points in thickness measurement to find the most suitable point for screening.

Results:  The prevalence of fetal abnormality was 1.5% (95% CI 1.1–2.1), and 1.2% (95% CI 0.8–1.7) of aneuploidy cases found and the commonest was trisomy 21. A cut‐off point at 2.4 mm showed the highest level of sensitivity and specificity for the detection of aneuploidy (65.5 and 95.7%) and trisomy 21 (75.0 and 95.1%), with a false‐positive rate of 4.3 and 4.9%, respectively.

Conclusion:  Using a cut‐off point of nuchal translucency at 2.4 mm has potential for aneuploidy and trisomy 21 screening in the south of Vietnam.
Design and implementation of a near‐miss reporting system at a large, academic pediatric anesthesia department
Authors: Guffey Patrick , Szolnoki Judit , Caldwell James , Polaner David
Published: May 2011

Background:  Current incident reporting systems encourage retrospective reporting of morbidity and mortality and have low participation rates. A near miss is an event that did not cause patient harm, but had the potential to. By tracking and analyzing near misses, systems improvements can be targeted appropriately, and future errors may be prevented.

Methods:  An electronic, web based, secure, anonymous reporting system for anesthesiologists was designed and instituted at The Children’s Hospital, Denver. This portal was compared to an existing hospital incident reporting system.

Results:  A total of 150 incidents were reported in the first 3 months of operation, compared to four entered in the same time period 1 year ago.

Conclusion:  An anesthesia‐specific anonymous near‐miss reporting system, which eases and facilitates data entry and can prospectively identify processes and practices that place patients at risk, was implemented at a large, academic, freestanding children’s hospital. This resulted in a dramatic increase in reported events and provided data to target and drive quality and process improvement.
Unraveling the structure of squids’ spermatophores: a combined approach based on Doryteuthis plei (Blainville, 1823) (Cephalopoda: Loliginidae)
Authors: Marian José E. A. R. , Domaneschi Osmar
Published: May 2011

Marian, J.E.A.R. and Domaneschi, O. 2012. Unraveling the structure of squids’ spermatophores: a combined approach based on Doryteuthis plei (Blainville, 1823) (Cephalopoda: Loliginidae). —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 93: 281–307.

Male coleoid cephalopods produce elaborate spermatophores, which function autonomously outside the male body during copulation, undergoing a complicated process of evagination. In order to contribute to the understanding of this unique structure, this study investigated the morphology of the spermatophore of Doryteuthis plei applying several microscopy techniques. A hitherto unreported, much more complex structural arrangement was revealed for the loliginid spermatophore, the most striking findings being: (1) the complex, layered structure of the middle membrane, which bears an additional, chemically distinct segment surrounding part of the cement body; (2) the presence of a space between the inner tunic and middle membrane filled with a fine reticulated material; (3) the presence of stellate particles not only embedded in the spiral filament, but also closely applied to the inner membrane at the level of the cement body; (4) the presence of a pre‐oral chamber in the cap region; and (5) the complex organization of the cement body, formed by two distinct layers encompassing contents of different chemical and textural properties. Careful literature reassessment suggests several of these features are common to loliginids, and to some extent to other squids. Their possible functional implications are discussed in light of our knowledge of the spermatophoric reaction mechanics.
Social Solidarity and the Power of Contract
Authors: Veitch Kenneth
Published: May 2011

This article explores what social policy contracts reveal about contemporary forms of social solidarity, and what they tell us about the nature of social cohesion in Western societies today. Taking the workfare contract as its point of departure, and drawing on Emile Durkheim's work, it is argued that social policy contracts disclose elements of mechanical and organic social solidarity. They function in both punitive and restitutive ways, their exclusionary and inclusive features acting as important sources of contemporary social solidarity. By reference to empirical evidence regarding workfare in various countries, the article highlights the importance of structural factors in determining the success of this policy. It is argued that the moralistic nature of the workfare contract, and the forms of social solidarity it expresses, obscures these deeper structural issues, leaving in place the conditions necessary for the persistence of social suffering characteristic of the post‐Keynesian era. The contention is that contract has a de‐politicizing effect in the field of social policy.
Ancillary Relief: Complicating the Search for Principle
Authors: Diduck Alison
Published: May 2011

Calls have been made for clarification of ancillary relief law in England and Wales. The judicially created objective of fairness is said by many to be indeterminate and to lack a principled foundation. This paper examines judicial discourse in four recent decisions made by the highest courts of appeal and suggests that a principle of equality may be taking shape in the law. It goes on to suggest that while equality is important in ancillary relief, there are both risks and advantages associated with it, given that there is no clear consensus on its meaning either in family life or family law.
Best Laid Plans … The Institutionalisation of Public Deliberation in Scotland
Authors: DAVIDSON STEWART , STARK ALASTAIR , HEGGIE GORDON
Published: May 2011

Despite increasing support for participatory and deliberative principles amongst academics, practitioners and parliamentarians alike, efforts to infuse political systems with more inclusive and consensual forms of debate often founder. This article explores this conundrum by examining institutional reforms through the lens of deliberative democracy. More specifically, we scrutinise attempts to institutionalise forms of civic deliberation within the Scottish political system via the Scottish Civic Forum and the Scottish Parliament's committee system. Our analysis tells the story of how these two types of institutional reform, both designed to facilitate the move towards a more participatory and deliberative model of democracy in Scotland, have fared over a ten‐year period. In turn, this analysis allows us to comment on the ways in which deliberative and parliamentary democracy may be integrated.
Examining Public Attitudes towards Recent Foreign Policy Issues: Britain's Involvement in the Iraq and Afghanistan Conflicts
Authors: Clements Ben
Published: May 2011

This article assesses which factors underpin public attitudes towards two recent and controversial foreign policy issues: Britain's involvement in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Using data from the 2005 and 2010 British Election Studies, it undertakes a statistical examination of which sociological and political factors are related to support for and opposition to British involvement in these conflicts. It shows that attitudes are structured both by social characteristics and by beliefs and evaluations rooted in domestic politics. The former include gender, age and ethnic group, while the latter include partisanship and newspaper readership. It demonstrates the need for further investigation of foreign policy attitudes among the British public.
LIQUIDITY RISK AND CORPORATE HEDGING WITH FUTURES
Authors: TSE MAURICE K. S. , WONG KIT PONG
Published: May 2011

This paper examines the hedging behaviour of a value‐maximizing firm that exists for two periods. The firm faces uncertain income and is subject to tax asymmetries with no loss‐offset provisions. The firm has access to unbiased futures contracts in each period for hedging purposes. We impose a liquidity constraint on the firm. Specifically, whenever the net interim loss due to its first‐period futures position exceeds a predetermined threshold level, the firm is forced to terminate its risk management program and, therefore, is prohibited from trading the futures contracts in the second period. We show that the liquidity‐constrained firm optimally adopts a full‐hedge via its second‐period futures position to minimize the extent of the income risk and an under‐hedge via its first‐period futures position to limit the degree of the liquidity risk.
London 2012 and the Impact of the UK's Olympic and Paralympic Legislation: Protecting Commerce or Preserving Culture?
Authors: James Mark , Osborn Guy
Published: May 2011

The general commercial rights associated with the Olympic Movement are protected in the UK by the Olympic Symbols etc (Protection) Act 1995. In addition, the UK Government, in response to a requirement of the Host City Contract with the International Olympic Committee, created the London Olympic Association Right under section 33 and Schedule 4 of the London Olympic and Paralympic Games Act 2006. These provisions enable the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games to exploit, to the fullest extent, the commercial rights associated with the London Olympic Games. This article questions whether the IOC's requirement for legislative protection and state enforcement of the commercial rights are compatible with the Fundamental Principles of Olympism as defined in the Olympic Charter, and its stated aim of being a celebration of sporting endeavour, culture and education.
Marriage and Divorce in the Supreme Court and the Law Commission: for Love or Money?
Authors: Miles Joanna
Published: May 2011

The case note considers the impact of the Supreme Court decision in Radmacher v Granatino regarding pre‐nuptial and other classes of nuptial agreement, together with recent proposals of the Law Commission for reform of the law relating to marital property agreements generally. It explores in particular the question of what, if any, core obligations of marriage cannot – or should not – be excludable by agreement.
Optical sensing and chemometric analysis of soil organic carbon – a cost effective alternative to conventional laboratory methods?
Authors: O’ Rourke S. M. , Holden N. M.
Published: May 2011

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is frequently determined by the Walkley‐Black (WB) method. A limitation of the test is incomplete oxidation of the carbon fraction and underestimation of SOC. Automated dry combustion methods are expensive and slow. Optical sensing and chemometric analysis offer the potential of an economical method capable of quantifying SOC fractions. The aim of this study was to identify the best SOC analysis method to facilitate maximum sampling resolution based on the cost per sample, analytical accuracy and time. A comparative evaluation was made of five techniques; (1) the WB method, (2) total combustion by total organic C analyser, (3) infrared (IR) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, (4) a portable spectroradiometer and (5) laboratory hyperspectral imaging. This involved assessing equipment costs, consumables and time to derive total analytical cost. The benefits were sample throughput and analytical accuracy. Instrumentation represented the largest input to analytical cost and for optical methods was governed by the spectral range. In contrast to dry combustion, this cost is offset by high sample throughput and minimal consumable requirements for IR spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging. Hyperspectral imaging is identified as the most rapid technique with potential to scan about 720 samples per day at 90% less cost than the WB method. The opportunity cost of hyperspectral imaging is to forfeit some analytical accuracy associated with the dry combustion method. Dry combustion, despite its high cost per sample, incurs no further costs associated with updating prediction models or developing site or soil specific correction factors.
Time course of the angiogenic response during normotrophic and hypertrophic scar formation in humans
Authors: van der Veer Willem M. , Niessen Frank B. , Ferreira José A. , Zwiers Peter J. , de Jong Etty H. , Middelkoop Esther , Molema Grietje
Published: May 2011

Previous research suggests that in hypertrophic scars (HSs), an excess of microvessels is present compared with normotrophic scars (NSs). The aim of our study was to quantify vascular densities in HSs and normotrophic scars and to provide an insight into the kinetics of changes in the expression of angiogenic factors in time during wound healing and HS formation. Human presternal wound healing after cardiothoracic surgery through a sternotomy incision was investigated in a standardized manner. Skin biopsies were collected at consecutive time points, i.e., during surgery and 2, 4, 6, 12, and 52 weeks postoperatively. The expression levels of angiopoietin‐1, angiopoietin‐2, Tie‐2, vascular endothelial growth factor, and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator were measured by real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Quantification of angiogenesis and cellular localization of the proteins of interest were based on immunohistochemical analysis. Microvessel densities were higher in the HSs compared with the normotrophic scars 12 weeks (p=0.017) and 52 weeks (p=0.030) postoperatively. Angiopoietin‐1 expression was lower in the hypertrophic group (p<0.001), which, together with a nonsignificant increase of angiopoietin‐2 expression, represented a considerable decrease in the angiopoietin‐1/angiopoietin‐2 ratio in the hypertrophic group 4 weeks (p=0.053), 12 weeks (p<0.001), and 52 weeks (p<0.001) postoperatively. The expression of urokinase‐type plasminogen activator was up‐regulated during HS formation (p=0.008). Vascular endothelial growth factor expression was not significantly different when comparing both groups. In summary, the differential expression of angiopoietin‐1, angiopoietin‐2, and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator in time is associated with an increased vascular density in HSs compared with normotrophic scars.
The Effect of Cancellous Autograft and Novel Plate Design on Radiographic Healing and Postoperative Complications in Tibial Tuberosity Advancement for Cranial Cruciate‐Deficient Canine Stifles
Authors: Bisgard Sarah K. , Barnhart Matthew D. , Shiroma Jonathon T. , Kennedy Shawn C. , Schertel Eric R.
Published: May 2011

Objective:To assess the effect of autogenous cancellous bone graft (autograft) and novel plate use on radiographic healing and complications in tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) for treatment of cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL)‐deficient stifles in dogs.

Study Design:Prospective clinical study.

Animals:Consecutive dogs (n=125) with unilateral CrCL‐deficient stifles.

Methods:Four treatment groups: CPG, conventional plate with autograft; CPNG, conventional plate without autograft; NPG, novel plate with autograft; NPNG, novel plate without autograft were studied. Radiographs from 60 dogs were scored for healing at 6 and 10 weeks postoperatively; all 125 dogs were assessed for radiographic complications. Variables evaluated for relationship with healing scores and radiographic complications were age, weight, sex, cage and plate size, implant type, and graft use.

Results:Dogs with autograft had overall higher healing scores at 6 and 10 weeks. Radiographic complications occurred in 13 dogs (12 minor, 1 major), and were not influenced by graft or novel plate use.

Conclusion:Autograft increases healing scores, but was not found to have a significant impact on the rate of complications in TTA. The novel plate was not found to have healing scores or radiographic complication rates significantly different from the conventional plate design.
Social Amplification of Risk in the Internet Environment
Authors: Chung Ik Jae
Published: May 2011

This article analyzes the dynamic process of risk amplification in the Internet environment with special emphasis on public concern for environmental risks from a high‐speed railway tunnel construction project in South Korea. Environmental organizations and activists serving as social stations collected information about the project and its ecological impact, and communicated this with the general public, social groups, and institutions. The Internet provides social stations and the public with an efficient means for interactive communication and an open space for active information sharing and public participation. For example, while the website of an organization such as an environmental activist group can initially trigger local interest, the Internet allows this information to be disseminated to a much wider audience in a manner unavailable to the traditional media. Interaction among social stations demonstrates an amplifying process of public attention to the risk. Analyses of the volume of readers’ comments to online newspaper articles and public opinions posted on message board of public and nonprofit organizations show the ripple effects of the amplification process as measured along temporal, geographical, and sectoral dimensions. Public attention is also influenced by the symbolic connotations of risk information. Interpretations of risk in religious, political, or legal terms intensify public concern for the environmental risk.
A Shape‐Morphing Ceramic Composite for Variable Geometry Scramjet Inlets
Authors: Miles Richard , Howard Phillip , Limbach Christopher , Zaidi Syed , Lucato Sergio , Cox Brian , Marshall David , Espinosa Angel M. , Driemeyer Dan
Published: May 2011

The development of ceramic composites with three‐dimensional fiber reinforcement architectures formed by textile methods has led to the potential for active shape‐morphing surfaces that can operate in high temperature and variable pressure environments. This technology is of particular interest for hypersonic applications, where SCRAM jet engines require variable inlet geometry to achieve efficient flight over realistic flight profiles and variable flight conditions. The experiments reported here show that significant shape morphing can be achieved and good control of the shape sustained even in the presence of large temperature and pressure gradients. Experiments were carried out using a subscale morphing hypersonic inlet with rectangular cross‐section in a Mach 8 wind tunnel facility with a total temperature of 800 K. The upper surface of the inlet consisted of a C–SiC composite plate (0.7 mm thick, 37.5 cm long, and 11 cm wide) connected to five actuators through a triangular truss support structure. The lower surface was a flat plate instrumented with an array of pressure taps along the flow centerline. As the shape varied, the surface contour was reliably controlled for high efficiency, low loss compression. A factor of six inlet area ratio variation was achieved and good agreement with model predictions was observed.
Oxide‐Assisted Degradation of Ni‐Base Single Crystals During Cyclic Loading: the Role of Coatings
Authors: Pollock Tresa M. , Laux Britta , Brundidge Clinique L. , Suzuki Akane , He Ming Y.
Published: May 2011

The role of oxidation‐induced layers in the failure process of aluminide‐coated nickel base single crystals subject to high‐temperature fatigue cycling has been investigated experimentally and via finite element analysis. Isothermal strain‐controlled compressive fatigue experiments (R=−∞) with 120 s holds in compression were conducted at 982° and 1093°C. Surface‐initiated cracks containing a layer of alumina progressively grew through the coating layers into the superalloy substrate, ultimately causing failure. Growth stresses in the oxide provided a driving force for extension of the oxide into the softer coating and substrate layers. Finite element modeling shows the rate of growth of the oxide‐filled cracks is sensitive to the strength of the constituent layers and the magnitude of the oxide growth strains. Implications for design of failure‐resistant coating–substrate systems are discussed.
Low‐Temperature Spark Plasma Sintering of Yttria Ceramics with Ultrafine Grain Size
Authors: Yoshida Hidehiro , Morita Koji , Kim Byung‐Nam , Hiraga Keijiro , Yamanaka Kohei , Soga Kohei , Yamamoto Takahisa
Published: May 2011

The sinterability of high‐purity, nanocrystalline Y2O3 without any additives was investigated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) for a combination of low sintering temperatures (850°–1050°C) and low heating rates (2–50°C/min). At a sintering temperature of 950°C and a heating rate of 2°C/min, the SPS yielded a polycrystalline Y2O3 having a relative density of 99% and an average grain size of 190 nm. The Y2O3 bodies sintered at 950° and 1050°C for 1h at the heating rate of 2°C/min exhibited an in‐line transmittance of 6%–46% in a wavelength range of 400–800 nm. A high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy observation and chemical analysis by an energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer revealed that the sintered Y2O3 bodies were single‐phase materials without any grain‐boundary amorphous layer or impurity contamination. An isothermal SPS experiment indicated that the grain‐boundary mobility is significantly enhanced by the SPS. An electron energy loss spectrometry indicated that SPS changed atomic configuration of the grain boundaries. The improved sinterability of Y2O3 is attributed to the enhanced diffusion that arises from defect reactions activated by the SPS.
Risk as Social Context: Immigration Policy and Autism in California1
Authors: Fountain Christine , Bearman Peter
Published: May 2011

Motivated by the dramatic increase in autism diagnoses in recent years, research into risk factors has uncovered substantial variation in autism prevalence by race/ethnicity, SES, and geography. Less studied is the connection between autism diagnosis rates and the social and political context. In this article, we link the temporal pattern of autism diagnosis for Hispanic children in California to state and federal anti‐immigrant policy, particularly ballot initiative Proposition 187, limiting access to public services for undocumented immigrants and their families. Using a population‐level data set of 1992–2003 California births linked to 1992–2006 autism case records, we show that the effects of state and federal policies toward immigrants are visible in the rise and fall of autism risk over time. The common epidemiological practice of estimating risk on pooled samples is thereby shown to obscure patterns and mis‐estimate effect sizes. Finally, we illustrate how spatial variation in Hispanic autism rates reflects differential vulnerability to these policies. This study reveals not only the spillover effects of immigration policy on children’s health, but also the hazards of treating individual attributes like ethnicity as risk factors without regard to the social and political environments that give them salience.
Sebastião Salgado and Visual Sociology
Authors: Gold Steven J.
Published: May 2011

This paper links the work of Sebastião Salgado, recipient of the 2010 American Sociological Association (ASA) Award for Excellence in the Reporting of Social Issues, with the discipline of sociology. I reflect on Salgado’s biography, method, and concerns in order to demonstrate how his work contributes to the awareness and understanding of social issues. Toward this end, I summarize sociology’s record of involvement with visual documentation. Prior to 1915, the American Journal of Sociology regularly included photographs that provided visual documentation of environments under study. However, as sociology moved away from social reform activities and toward scientific investigation, the regular publication of photographs ceased. During the 1930s and 1940s, photographic projects in disciplines and social movements beyond sociology developed a variety of methods that would prove useful to sociology. During the 1970s, sociologists once again began to use visual methods in their teaching, research, and publication, putting sociology in the position to both contribute to and benefit from insights and social commitments that have distinguished Sebastião Salgado as a globally significant photographer and social activist during the late twentieth and early twenty‐first centuries.
Images, Ideology, and Praxis in the Environmental Movement: Sebastião Salgado’sGenesisProject
Authors: Rudel Thomas K.
Published: May 2011

This article is part of a panel discussion addressing the sociological relevance of Sebastião Salgado’s work as well as documentary photography in general.2I focus specifically on environmental sociology.
Black and White Photography as Theorizing: Seeing What the Eye Cannot See
Authors: Sassen Saskia
Published: May 2011

This article is part of a panel discussion addressing the sociological relevance of Sebastião Salgado’s work as well as documentary photography in general.

2
Women with chromosomally normal male fetuses are at increased risk of being referred for invasive testing following first‐trimester risk assessment
Authors: MILTOFT CAROLINE BORREGAARD , EKELUND CHARLOTTE KVIST , RODE LINE , TABOR ANN
Published: May 2011

Objective. This study investigated the gender distribution in karyotype results from chorionic villus samples and amniocenteses performed due to an increased risk for Down syndrome based on first‐trimester combined risk assessment. Methods. All prenatal karyotypes performed from 2006–2008 due to a risk assessment above 1:300 were retrieved from the Danish Central Cytogenetic Register. The distribution of gender for all newborns was obtained from Statistics Denmark. The χ2 test and odds ratios were used for intergroup comparison. Results. We retrieved 5 157 karyotype results (54.9% male and 45.1% female karyotypes), of which 4 662 were normal. During the same period, 100 112 boys and 94 732 girls were born. Women carrying male fetuses were significantly more often referred for invasive testing than women carrying female fetuses (2.8 vs. 2.5%, p < 0.0001). However, the proportion of chromosomally normal male fetuses was significantly greater than that for female fetuses (92.0 vs. 88.4%, p < 0.0001). Conclusion. A significantly higher proportion of women pregnant with male fetuses compared with female fetuses had an invasive diagnostic test performed prenatally following a risk assessment for Down syndrome.
Adverse effects of topical photodynamic therapy
Authors: Ibbotson Sally Helen
Published: May 2011

Background/purpose: Topical photodynamic therapy (PDT) is increasingly used in dermatology, particularly for the treatment of superficial non‐melanoma skin cancer and dysplasia. Treatment is generally considered to be well tolerated, although pain during PDT can be a limiting factor. This review explores the adverse effects of topical PDT.

Methods: A thorough search of the literature using Medline was undertaken and published data were evaluated and presented in conjunction with our own experience.

Results: Pain during PDT is the most commonly reported adverse effect and may prevent successful treatment delivery, although low‐irradiance regimes and use of nerve blocks or cooling air can be used to reduce pain. Other acute and chronic adverse effects are reported but do not seem to be limiting factors in the use of topical PDT. To date, there is no convincing evidence for a carcinogenic effect of this treatment.

Conclusion: Topical PDT is associated with few significant adverse effects, although methods to optimize regimes and minimize pain are required to improve the acceptability of this therapy for patients.
Treatment of giant Bowen's disease with sequential use of photodynamic therapy and imiquimod cream
Authors: Sotiriou Eleni , Lallas Aimilios , Apalla Zoi , Ioannides Demetris
Published: May 2011

We present a 79‐year‐old man with a 2‐year history of Bowen's disease. The 10 × 10 plaque was located on the right frontotemporal area. The patient was treated with two photodynamic therapy (PDT) sessions, performed 1 week apart, followed by five times per week application of imiquimod 5% cream for 6 consecutive weeks. Complete clinical and histological response was achieved 3 months after treatment was completed. The patient remains recurrence free 12 months after treatment. Cosmetic outcome was evaluated as fair because of residual erythema. Long‐term follow‐up is mandatory for assessment of recurrences. Further studies are needed in order to confirm the improved outcome using the combination of PDT and imiquimod cream.
Buffering capacity of human skin layers: in vitro
Authors: Zheng Yue , Sotoodian Bahman , Lai Wei , Maibach Howard I.
Published: May 2011

Background/purpose: The skin possesses buffering capacity to resist acidic/alkaline aggression. Skin components contribute differently to this buffering capacity. This study investigates buffering capacity in three skin layers: intact stratum corneum (SC), epidermis and dermis.

Methods: Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) solutions at 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 N were applied to skin (3.18 μL/cm2). After 30 min, the skin was washed with 1 mL de‐ionized water. TEWL and pH measurements were conducted at baseline (before contact with acid or base), 0, 10 and 30 min post exposure, and continued at 0, 10 and 30 min post washing.

Results: Data indicate that immediately following acid or base exposures, the dermis demonstrates the highest buffering capacity, while with time, intact stratum corneum predominates.

Conclusion: These findings potentiate advanced understanding of skin's buffering capacity as related to dermatopharmacology and dermatotoxicology.
Seemingly healthy skin in atopic dermatitis: observations with the use of high‐frequency ultrasonography, preliminary study
Authors: Dańczak‐Pazdrowska Aleksandra , Polańska Adriana , Silny Wojciech , Sadowska Anna , Osmola‐Mańkowska Agnieszka , Czarnecka‐Operacz Magdalena , Żaba Ryszard , Jenerowicz Dorota
Published: May 2011

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing skin disorder which is strictly determined by the epidermal barrier function. In previous studies, there is conclusive evidence that normal‐looking, nonlesional skin presents meaningful barrier function defect and a sub‐clinical eczematous skin reaction.

Aim: The authors intended to visualize nonlesional AD skin with the use of high frequency ultrasonography to show that the normal‐looking, nonlesional skin may present significant abnormalities in USG examination.

Methods: We have performed analysis with the use of high‐frequency 20 MHz skin sonography in the cases of 15 AD patients of the Department of Dermatology, Medical University, Poznań, Poland. The clinical score has been evaluated on the basis of W‐AZS index and EASI. The results were presented in the form of ultrasonographic images.

Results: High frequency ultrasonography revealed an echopoor band within nonlesional skin of six (40%) examined AD patients and in all cases within skin lesions.

Conclusion: Our results indicate the significant role of skin ultrasonography in the complete clinical evaluation of patients with AD, which may serve as an element in selection of the most appropriate topical treatment. An echopoor band beneath the echo entry within nonlesional skin of some AD patients may reflect subclinical eczematous reaction and the readiness for the development of typical skin lesions. For this purpose, we suggest to name an intact skin in AD as seemingly healthy skin.
Animal‐type melanoma – tumor cell invasion of dermal lymphatics and molecular identification of lymph node metastasis
Authors: Posch Christian , Vesely Michael , Monshi Babak , Feichtinger Hans , Cziegler Kurt , Rappersberger Klemens
Published: May 2011

Animal‐type melanoma (ATM) represents a rare subtype within the wide spectrum of melanocytic tumors. Clinically, ATM lesions appear as sharply demarcated, brown, black and dark blue pigmented nodules, which show grey‐white surface elements on dermatoscopy. The tumor is restricted to the dermis and arranged in irregular fascicles, which are composed of spindle‐shaped and epithelioid melanocytes. Moderate tumor cell pleomorphism, mitoses and apoptotic cells all suggest a malignant process. Abundant, finely dispersed melanin pigment within tumor cells as well as numerous melanophages are strongly suggestive of ATM. Even though locoregional lymph node metastases are frequently found at diagnosis, the course of ATM is generally benign. Specific molecular changes may be detected in melanocytes from lesions and lymph nodes on fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Such findings strongly indicate the malignant potential of ATM. The peculiar biology of ATM, as a moderately malignant tumor, is reflected in a new histopathological classification within the spectrum of dermal borderline melanocytic tumors (BMT).