bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An electrospun polycaprolactone–collagen membrane for the resurfacing of cartilage defects
Authors: Ho Saey Tuan Barnabas , Ekaputra Andrew Krishna , Hui James Hoi , Hutmacher Dietmar Werner
Published: February 2010

A polycaprolactone (PCL)–collagen electrospun mesh is proposed as a novel alternative to the conventional periosteal graft in autologous chondrocyte implantation. This is the first known attempt in designing a cartilage resurfacing membrane using a mechanically resilient PCL mesh with a weight‐average molecular weight of 139 300 that is enhanced with bioactive collagen. PCL–collagen 10, 20 and 40% electrospun meshes (Coll‐10, Coll‐20 and Coll‐40) were evaluated and it was discovered that the retention of surface collagen could only be achieved in Coll‐20 and Coll‐40. Furthermore Coll‐20 was stiffer and stronger than Coll‐40 and it satisfied the mechanical demands at the cartilage implant site. When seeded with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), the cells adhered on the surface of the Coll‐20 mesh and they remained viable over a period of 28 days; however, they were unable to infiltrate through the dense meshwork. Cell compatibility was also noted in the chondrogenic environment as the MSCs differentiated into chondrocytes with the expression of Sox9, aggrecan and collagen II. More importantly, the mesh did not induce a hypertrophic response from the cells. The current findings support the use of Coll‐20 as a cartilage patch, and future implantation studies are anticipated. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Barrier properties of poly(lactic acid) and its morphological changes induced by aroma compound sorption
Authors: Colomines Gael , Ducruet Violette , Courgneau Cécile , Guinault Alain , Domenek Sandra
Published: February 2010

The barrier properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) play a key role in food packaging applications. For their optimization, the influence of crystallinity on the barrier properties of PLA and the interaction of PLA with the aroma compound ethyl acetate were investigated. PLA film samples with various crystallinities were fabricated by flat die extrusion and thermocompression and compared to PLA Biophan™. The degree of crystallinity had no effect on the oxygen permeability. However, an increase of crystallinity caused a decrease in ethyl acetate sorption. The sorption isotherm of ethyl acetate obtained using microgravimetry showed a steep increase with increasing aroma activity, a form which is consistent with a plasticization effect. This behaviour was verified using differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis. Sorption caused a marked decrease in the glass transition temperature well below room temperature to approximately 0 °C. Furthermore, PLA underwent a solvent‐induced crystallization when equilibrated in ethyl acetate atmosphere at an activity of 0.5. The results obtained show the importance of considering possible interactions between polymer and foodstuff during the optimization step of polymeric materials for food packaging applications. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Life is precious and I'm making the best of it: coping strategies of long‐term cancer survivors
Authors: Zucca Alison C. , Boyes Allison W. , Lecathelinais Christophe , Girgis Afaf
Published: February 2010

Objective: Coping strategies mediate the relationship between challenging situations and their impact on psychosocial outcomes. Many long‐term cancer survivors continue to face a range of challenges in their daily lives, yet little is known about how this population copes. The study explored the prevalence and predictors of cancer‐specific coping strategies among a heterogeneous sample of long‐term cancer survivors.

Methods: A population‐based cross‐sectional sample of 863 adult cancer survivors 5–6 years post‐diagnosis completed a pen‐and‐paper survey. Cancer‐specific coping was assessed via the Mini‐Mental Adjustment to Cancer (mini‐MAC) Scale. Potential predictor variables included patient, disease and treatment characteristics and social support.

Results: The most commonly used coping strategies were fatalism and fighting spirit. Of those survivors that used any of the coping strategies assessed, 53% used at least two strategies. Maladaptive coping was commonly predicted by low social support (OR=1.77 to 2.49) and being a disability pensioner, whereas having ever received chemotherapy widely predicted greater use of all types of coping. A weekly household income of over $1000 a week uniquely predicted not using any mini‐MAC coping strategies.

Conclusions: Survivors continue to engage in cancer‐specific coping strategies many years after diagnosis, albeit to a lesser extent than recent survivor populations. A number of predictors were identified that can alert health workers to long‐term survivors at increased risk of maladaptive coping. Given that low social support consistently predicted maladaptive coping responses, interventions aimed at promoting positive coping responses should include strategies to increase access to social support. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Common‐sense beliefs about cancer and health practices among women completing treatment for breast cancer
Authors: Costanzo Erin S. , Lutgendorf Susan K. , Roeder Susan L.
Published: February 2010

Objective: Following the end of adjuvant treatment, breast cancer survivors must cope with uncertainty related to the possibility of recurrence and the loss of the ‘safety net’ treatment provides. This study examined breast cancer survivors' efforts to manage uncertainty by making lifestyle changes, such as improvement in diet and exercise. We further investigated the role of women's common‐sense beliefs about their cancer, as described by Leventhal's self‐regulation theory, in explaining post‐treatment changes.

Method: At 3 weeks and 3 months post‐treatment, 79 women who received adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy for stages 0–III breast cancer (mean age=55 years) completed assessments of changes in health practices and other behaviors. Participants also completed measures of beliefs about the causes, course, personal control, and consequences of their cancer.

Results: Survivors reported behavior changes directed toward improving physical, emotional, and spiritual well‐being. Results further indicated that women who believed their cancer had more severe consequences and those who attributed the development of cancer or the prevention of recurrence to health behaviors or stress were most likely to report improvement in diet or physical activity and reduction in alcohol use or stress.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that breast cancer survivors are poised to make lifestyle changes after treatment ends, creating an opportune time for health promotion interventions. Understanding women's cancer beliefs could help guide the development of tailored, proactive interventions to improve the health and well‐being of breast cancer survivors. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Barriers to procreational intentions among cancer survivors 2 years after diagnosis: a French national cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Mancini Julien , Rey Dominique , Préau Marie , Le Corroller‐Soriano Anne Gaëlle , Moatti Jean‐Paul
Published: February 2010

Objectives: To determine the procreational intention rates among cancer survivors whose fertility was unimpaired and to identify the factors associated with their procreational intentions.

Methods: Six thousand nine hundred and fifty‐seven adult cancer patients treated between September and October 2002 were randomly selected from the French National Health Insurance Fund's Chronic Disease File. Of the 6957, 4270 responded to a cross‐sectional questionnaire 2 years after diagnosis, of whom 959 reported being fertile and responded to a question about their procreational intentions.

Results: Among the 257 male and female survivors aged 20–44, 86 (33.5%) had procreational intentions. After adjusting for age, gender, and already having children, only a high educational level (adjusted odds ratio: 3.1, 95% confidence interval 1.3–7.8) and stable or increasing financial resources (2.4, 1.0–5.7) were independently associated with the respondents' procreational intentions. Neither cancer stage at diagnosis nor the present stage significantly affected their plans in this respect.

Conclusions: Two years after cancer diagnosis, the reasons why some survivors who are still fertile have no parenthood projects were similar to those earlier given by members of the general population. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suppression of pine wilt disease by an antibacterial agent, oxolinic acid
Authors: Kwon Hyeok Ran , Choi Gyung Ja , Choi Yong Ho , Jang Kyoung Soo , Sung Nack‐Do , Kang Mun Seong , Moon Yilseong , Lee Seung Kyu , Kim Jin‐Cheol
Published: February 2010

BACKGROUND: Pine wilt disease (PWD) is very complex and has been reported to be caused by pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner & Buhrer) Nickle, and its accompanying bacteria. However, there is no report on the control of PWD by antibacterial agent. The present study was performed to investigate disease control efficacy of antibacterial agents against PWD.

RESULTS: Among six antibacterial antibiotics tested, oxolinic acid (OA) showed the strongest antibacterial activity against five bacteria isolated from three strains of pine wood nematode. In in vivo assay, it effectively suppressed the development of PWD in three‐year‐old seedlings of Pinus densiflora Sieb. & Zucc.; it showed 71% control when injected at 3 mg per seedling. A mixture of OA and the nematicidal agent abamectin (Ab) showed higher disease control efficacy against PWD than either OA or Ab alone. In addition, OA alone and a mixture of OA and Ab also controlled PWD in approximately 20‐year‐old pine trees under field conditions.

CONCLUSION: This is the first report on the suppression of PWD by OA. The result strongly indicates that PWD could be controlled by antibacterial antibiotic alone and a combination of antibacterial and nematicidal agents. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Melemium Methylsulfonates HC6N7(NH2)3H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)3·H2O and H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)2·H2O
Authors: Sattler Andreas , Schönberger Stefanie , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: February 2010

Melem C6N7(NH2)3 was shown to form a variety of adduct phases and salts. Salts of melem can be yielded by reaction of melem with strong acids. We investigated the reaction of melem with methylsulfonic acid, thus identifying two new melemium salts with formulas HC6N7(NH2)3H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)3·H2O (1) and H2C6N7(NH2)3(SO3Me)2·H2O (2), respectively. The structures of both compounds were elucidated using single‐crystal XRD compound 1: (P\bar{1} no. 2, Z = 2, a = 10.096(2), b = 12.865(3), c = 13.369(3) Å, α = 63.28(3), β = 81.19(3), γ = 72.92(3)°, V = 1461.4(7) Å3) compound 2: (P21/n, no. 14, Z = 4, a = 8.0757(16), b = 7.6937(15), c = 27.540(6) Å, β = 92.03(3)°, V = 1710.6(6) Å3). Both compounds are discussed in comparison to structural data from the literature of other melemium salts. We also present new synthetic approaches for the preparation of melem in larger quantities.
Two Outstanding Explosives Based on 1,2‐Dinitroguanidine: Ammonium‐ dinitroguanidine and 1,7‐Diamino‐1,7‐dinitrimino‐2,4,6‐trinitro‐2,4,6‐triazaheptane
Authors: Altenburg Thomas , Klapötke Thomas M. , Penger Alexander , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: February 2010

Ammonium‐dinitroguanidine (ADNQ) and 1,7‐diamino‐1,7‐dinitrimino‐2,4,6‐trinitro‐2,4,6‐triazaheptane (APX) have been synthesized in high yield and purity. Both compounds were characterized by multinuclear NMR (1H, 13C, 14N) and vibrational spectroscopy. The molecular structures were elucidated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. ADNQ crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a crystal density of ρ = 1.735 g·cm–3, APX in the orthorhombic space group Pbnc with a crystal density of ρ = 1.911 g·cm–3. ADNQ decomposes at 197 °C, APX at 174 °C. Impact (IS), friction (FS) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivities were determined experimentally for both compounds. (ADNQ: IS ≥ 10 J, FS ≥ 252 N and ESD ≥ 0.4 J, APX: IS ≥ 3 J, FS ≥ 80 N and ESD ≥ 0.1 J). Polymer bonded mixtures of APX with 5 % PVAA resin proved to be less sensitive towards mechanical stimuli (IS ≥ 5J, FS = 160 N). The detonation parameters (EXPLO5 code) were calculated using combined quantum chemical (CBS‐4M) methods and a chemical equilibrium calculation based on the steady‐state model of detonation: ADNQ (Vdet = 9066 m·s–1, pC–J = 332 kbar, Qv = –5193 kJ·kg–1), APX (Vdet = 9540 m·s–1, pC–J = 395 kbar, Qv = –5935 kJ·kg–1). The experimentally determined detonation velocity (fibre optic technique) agrees well with the theoretical values, indicating that APX shows better detonation performance than HMX (1,3,5,7‐Tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazoctane).
La place de la psychologie dans l'ordre des sciences
Authors: Vidal Fernando
Published: February 2010

L’histoire de la psychologie en tant que discipline autonome comporte non seulement des développements méthodologiques et institutionnels, mais aussi l’élaboration du concept même de psychologie et des représentations de sa place dans l’ordre des sciences. Si de telles représentations ne détenninent pas la constitution du champ professionnel ou la pratique concrète du psychologue, elles n’en expriment pas moins des idéaux épistémologiques et reflètent les changements qui s’opèrent au sein de la discipline. Nous donnerons d’abord une vue générale de la position de la psychologie au XVIIe et au VXIIIe siècle, puis nous esquisserons l’histoire de sa place dans l’ordre des sciences de Destutt de Tracy à Jean Piaget. Après avoir été la science des sciences des classifications hiérarchiques, la psychologie s’intègre aux autres sciences dans des schémas moins linéaires, voire circulaires, sans pour autant toujours perdre la prééminence gnoséologique et pédagogique que lui attribuèrent en premier les « psychologues » du XVIIIe siècle.
La typologie des nations et l'Espagnol mélancolique: notes pour l'interprétation d'un cliché
Authors: Ürobitg-Laval Christine
Published: February 2010

Appartenant au genre traditionnel de la typologie des nations, l’image de l’Espagnol mélancolique constitue un topos culturel vivace, qui se manifeste avec une remarquable continuité depuis le Siècle d’Or espagnol. Attribué par les étrangers – notamment par les Français – ce cliché est aussi revendiqué et développé par les auteurs espagnols eux-mêmes. Il devient dès lors nécessaire de s’interroger sur la persistance de ce topos à travers les siècles ainsi que d’examiner comment – et pourquoi – les Espagnols ont adhéré à l’image que l’extérieur et la caractérologie des nations ont donnée d’eux. L’examen des occurrences de ce topos a pour but de cerner son fonctionnement, de déterminer les représentations – parfois antagoniques – qu’il convoque dans le texte et les enjeux qu’il implique. L’image de l’Espagnol mélancolique constitue une représentation profondément subjective qui engage un travail complexe de l’imaginaire: elle met en jeu la représentation de l’altérité et la conscience que chaque nation a de soi, révélant beaucoup du sujet qui la produit.
Fides apprehensiva: John Bunyan et l'autobiographie puritaine
Authors: Sys Jacques
Published: February 2010

Le récit puritain de conversion dont l'archétype est le Grace abounding to the chief of sinners de John Bunyan est représentatif d'une saisie nouvelle de l'intériorité sur le mode de la transfiguration de l'individu par l'appropriation patiente du modèle christique par lequel et au sein duquel l'individu trouve son salut. Il est courant de dire que le puritanisme et plus généralement le protestantisme ont contribué à développer une vision individualiste du monde, mais il ne faut pas oublier que la confession de foi s'énonce depuis l'affirmation exemplaire d'une communauté confessante qui s'inscrit dans une confession de foi qui en est l'idéaltype. Cet article propose une étude de l'énonciation de Grace abounding, dans le jeu triangulaire du « moi » objet du processus de conversion, du « nous » de la communauté confessante et du « Il » christique qui en est l'englobant.
L'autobiographie allemande du XVIIIe siècle, interprétée à la lumière de la sociologie de Niklas Luhmann
Authors: Esselborn Hans
Published: February 2010

Cet article se propose de préciser la relation entre l'épanouissement de l'autobiographie allemande de la fin du XVIIIe siècle et l'essor de la bourgeoisie en s'appuyant sur la notion de carrière de Luhmann. Cette notion rend compte de la nécessité pour l'individu, dans la société fonctionnelle bourgeoise, de trouver une identité personnelle et sociale grâce à la description de sa vie sous forme orale ou écrite. L'autobiographie de Jung-Stilling, publiée au fur et à mesure de son ascension sociale, montre bien le rôle extraordinaire de ce récit dans la constitution de l'identité et l'amélioration des chances pratiques de son auteur. Au contraire, le roman psychologique, Anton Reiser, de K. P. Moritz décrit l'impossibilité du héros à poursuivre une carrière et à construire son identité à cause de son imagination débordante. L'autobiographie du XVIIIe siècle s'avère ainsi être l'autopoïesis littéraire de l'individualité concrète de ses auteurs.
La Place des femmes dans l'histoire ou les enjeux d'une écriture
Authors: Riot-Sarcey Michèle
Published: February 2010

Nouvelle approche, nouvel objet, l'histoire des femmes en France n'a pas encore conquis la place qui lui revient. Catégorie mal identifiée, elle reste en marge de l'autre histoire. Elle le restera, à moins que soit restituée l'historicité des tensions entre hommes et femmes, jusqu'alors tenues à l'écart de l'histoire politique, elle-même pensée hors des rapports de pouvoir. C'est tout un renouvellement de l'écriture de l'histoire dont il est question. Le concept de gender, comme outil d'analyse toujours nécessaire, n'y peut suffire. L'enjeu se situe entre l'histoire continue et les discontinuités historiques qui surgissent dans ses failles; entre les individues représentatives, objets de représentation et les sujets critiques à l'encontre de la représentation comme forme de pouvoir.
Épistémologie, histoire et histoire des sciences dans les années 1930
Authors: Castelli Gattinara Enrico
Published: February 2010

Les historiens des Annales et les historiens des sciences n'ont pas bénéficié, dans l'entre-deux-guerres, des recherches, des progrès et des problèmes qui, pourtant, leur étaient communs et auraient pu aider les deux disciplines à dépasser les limites qu'elles rencontraient alors. Une analyse détaillée des oeuvres des historiens des sciences d'un côté et des historiens des Annales de l'autre permet d'indiquer avec précision les lieux et les raisons de cette rencontre manquée
Scepticisme et politique
Authors: Larrère Catherine
Published: February 2010

La dimension politique du scepticisme, considère-t-on souvent, c'est le conformisme. Mais la séparation entre le domaine intérieur et l'espace public n'a pas pour seule conséquence l'injonction de suivre la coutume. Elle est d'abord constitution du domaine privé, qui est un lieu de liberté, à l'écart de la foule et du pouvoir. Cela permet de mieux comprendre la position sceptique en politique: le conseil du prince, en secret et en retrait de l'éclat public. Cela permet surtout de comprendre ce qu'apporte le scepticisme aux conceptions modernes de la liberté: un modèle social de la libre poursuite de la vérité.
Do Basic Psychomotor Skills Transfer Between Different Image‐based Procedures?
Authors: Buzink Sonja N. , Goossens Richard H. M. , Schoon Erik J. , de Ridder Huib , Jakimowicz Jack J.
Published: February 2010

Background

Surgical techniques that draw from multiple types of image‐based procedures (IBP) are increasing, such as Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery, fusing laparoscopy and flexible endoscopy. However, little is known about the relation between psychomotor skills for performing different types of IBP. For example, do basic psychomotor colonoscopy and laparoscopy skills interact?

Methods

Following a cross‐over study design, 29 naïve endoscopists were trained on the Simbionix GI Mentor and the SimSurgery SEP simulators. Group C (n = 15) commenced with a laparoscopy session, followed by four colonoscopy sessions and a second laparoscopy session. Group L (n = 14) started with a colonoscopy session, followed by four laparoscopy sessions and a second colonoscopy session.

Results

No significant differences were found between the performances of group L and group C in their first training sessions on either technique. With additional colonoscopy training, group C outperformed group L in the second laparoscopy training session on the camera navigation task.

Conclusions

Overall, training in the basic colonoscopy tasks does not affect performance of basic laparoscopy tasks (and vice versa). However, to limited extent, training of basic psychomotor skills for colonoscopy do appear to contribute to the performance of angled laparoscope navigation tasks. Thus, training and assessment of IBP type‐specific skills should focus on each type of tasks independently. Future research should further investigate the influence of psychometric abilities on the performance of IBP and the transfer of skills for physicians who are experienced in one IBP type and would like to become proficient in another type of IBP.
The Effect of Obstruction and Perforation on Colorectal Cancer Disease‐Free Survival
Authors: Ho Yik‐Hong , Siu Simon K. K. , Buttner Petra , Stevenson Andrew , Lumley John , Stitz Russel
Published: February 2010

Background

Obstruction (OBSTR) and perforation (PERF) in colorectal cancer impact adversely upon outcomes, and cancer‐related survival may also be affected. However, data are sparse, particularly on disease‐free survival (DFS) where the cancer is both obstructed and perforated (OBS‐PERF).

Methods

Data were extracted from a prospectively collected database of 1876 colorectal cancer patients managed and followed up at the Royal Brisbane Hospital from 1984 to 2004. The patients who had curative surgery (n = 1426) were classified as OBSTR (n = 153), PERF (n = 53), OBS‐PERF (n = 19), and uncomplicated (UNCOM; n = 1201). Kaplan‐Meier survival and Cox proportional hazard analyses were performed.

Results

Postoperative mortality within 30 days of surgery was 1.5% (n = 22) and the overall complication rate was 40.8% (n = 582). However, only 7.2% (n = 102) required reoperations. The median survival time was 71 (IQR = 64.9–77.1) months and the median follow‐up for DFS was 37.5 (IQR 14–68) months. The overall recurrence rate was 32.7% (n = 466), the local recurrence rate was 9.4% (n = 135), and local and distant recurrences occurred in the same patient in 4.7% (n = 67). Male gender, OBSTR, PERF, OBS‐PERF, emergency operation, major medical and surgical complications, reoperation, TNM staging, tumor grading, and tumor venous invasion adversely affected DFS (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that OBS‐PERF (p = 0.008), major medical complications (p = 0.011), reoperation (p = 0.018), TNM staging (p < 0.001), grading (p = 0.018), and venous invasion (p = 0.002) were independently associated with a poorer DFS.

Conclusions

OBS‐PERF colorectal cancer is associated with a poorer DFS, which may be worse than either OBSTR or PERF alone.
Effect of Dexamethasone on Postoperative Symptoms in Patients Undergoing Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sánchez‐Rodríguez Petra‐Evelyn , Fuentes‐Orozco Clotilde , González‐Ojeda Alejandro
Published: February 2010

Background

Dexamethasone has been reported to reduce postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). However, its effects on other surgical outcomes, such as pain and fatigue, have been unclear. We evaluated the efficacy of preoperative dexamethasone for ameliorating postoperative symptoms after LC.

Methods

In this prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, 210 patients scheduled for elective LC were analyzed after randomization to intravenous dexamethasone (8 mg) or a placebo. All patients underwent standardized procedures for general anesthesia and surgery. Episodes of PONV and the pain and fatigue scores were recorded on a visual analog scale. Analgesic and antiemetic requirements were also recorded.

Results

There were no significant differences between groups with regard to medical or demographic variables. Significantly fewer patients experienced PONV in the dexamethasone group immediately after LC and at 6 and 12 h. The need for ondansetron to relieve PONV was higher in the placebo group (P = 0.001). Patients in the study group reported less postoperative pain during the first 24 h and less fatigue after 6, 12, and 24 h. The need for buprenorphine to relieve intolerable pain was also less in this group (P = 0.009). There were no side effects, and the morbidity was similar in the two groups (6.7 vs. 7.6%).

Conclusions

The regimen we employed is safe and without apparent side effects. Thus, preoperative dexamethasone can significantly reduce the incidence of PONV, pain and fatigue after elective LC.
LigaSure for Pancreatic Sealing During Distal Pancreatectomy
Authors: Hartwig Werner , Duckheim Martin , Strobel Oliver , Dovzhanskiy Dmitry , Bergmann Frank , Hackert Thilo , Büchler Markus W. , Werner Jens
Published: February 2010

Background

Pancreatic fistula is an unresolved problem after distal pancreatectomy. The current study investigated the safety of LigaSure for distal pancreatic resection in a porcine model.

Methods

A distal pancreatectomy was performed in 22 pigs. Animals were randomly assigned to undergo conventional scalpel transection with hand‐sewn closure of the pancreatic remnant or pancreatic transection and sealing by LigaSure. Closed‐suction drainage was collected daily. Animals were sacrificed on postoperative day (POD) 7 and the pancreatic remnant was sampled for histology.

Results

Two grade A postoperative temporary pancreatic fistulas (ISGPF definition) developed after hand suturing but none after LigaSure sealing. Amylase and lipase levels in drainage fluid were higher in the suture group during the first postoperative days but showed no differences after the fourth day. All but two animals that had to be euthanized because of small bowel invagination survived until POD 7. No significant differences were found in macroscopic changes between groups at reexploration. Histology demonstrated focal, chronic granulating inflammation with minor necrosis in all animals.

Conclusions

The LigaSure sealing device provides a safe alternative to conventional hand‐sewn closure of the pancreatic stump in distal pancreatectomy. This is the first study that investigated this effective and highly applicable technique for pancreatic transection.
Lipoblastoma: Clinical Features, Treatment, and Outcome
Authors: Kok Kenneth Y. Y. , Telisinghe P. U.
Published: February 2010

Background

Lipoblastoma is a rare, benign, encapsulated tumor arising from embryonic white fat. On histology they typically contain variably differentiated adipocytes, primitive mesenchymal cells, myxoid matrix, and fibrous trabeculae. The tumor occurs primarily in infancy and early childhood. It often occurs in the extremities and trunk, and rarely develops in the head and neck and other sites.

Methods

Ten cases of histopathologically proven lipoblastoma presenting to our hospital during a 6‐year period (2003–2008) were reviewed retrospectively for their clinical presentations, treatment, postoperative outcome, and follow‐up.

Results

There were five males and five females ranging in age from 6 months to 20 years. The commonest presentation was a painless rapidly growing mass. Tumors occurred in an extremity (n = 5), head and neck (n = 3), trunk (n = 1), and retroperitoneum (n = 1). Preoperative diagnosis was accurate in only one case. The largest tumor measuring 25‐cm × 20‐cm × 7‐cm and weighing 1.9 kg was excised from the retroperitoneum. All patients underwent complete surgical excision. Patient follow‐up period ranging from 9 to 76 months showed no recurrences and no metastases.

Conclusions

Lipoblastoma behaves benignly, occurs in both superficial and deep sites, and occasionally attains large size. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice and long‐term follow‐up is required because there is a reported tendency for these tumors to recur.
Fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase deficiency: enzyme and mutation analysis performed on calcitriol‐stimulated monocytes with a note on long‐term prognosis
Authors: Åsberg Cristine , Hjalmarson Ola , Alm Jan , Martinsson Tommy , Waldenström Johan , Hellerud Christina
Published: February 2010

Fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase) deficiency is an inborn error of metabolism in the gluconeogenetic pathway. During periods of low food intake or infections, a defect in FBPase can result in hypoglycemia, ketonuria and metabolic acidosis. We established a diagnostic system for FBPase deficiency consisting of enzyme activity measurement and mutation detection in calcitriol‐stimulated monocytes. In healthy individuals, we showed that FBPase activity is present in monocytes but not in other leukocytes. We describe the clinical course of four individuals from two Swedish families with FBPase deficiency. Family 1: patient 1 died at the age of 6 months after a severe episode with hypoglycemia and acidosis; patients 2 and 3 were followed for >30 years and were found to have a very favorable long‐term prognosis. Their FBPase activity from jejunum (residual activity 15–25% of healthy controls), mixed leukocytes (low or normal levels), and calcitriol‐stimulated monocytes (no detectable activity) was compared. Mutation analysis showed they were heterozygous for two genetic alterations (c.778G>A; c.881G>A), predicting amino acid exchanges at position p.G260R and p.G294E, originating from their parents. Family 2: patient 4 had no detectable levels of FBPase in stimulated monocytes. A mutation (c.648C>G) predicting a premature stop codon at position p.Y216X was found in one allele and a large deletion of about 300 kb, where the genes FBP2, FBP1 and a part of ONPEP are located, in the other. In conclusion, we present a reliable diagnostic system to verify an FBPase deficiency and find the genetic aberration.
Diet and visually significant cataracts in galactosaemia: is regular follow up necessary?
Authors: Widger John , O'Toole Jennifer , Geoghegan Olivia , O'Keefe Micheal , Manning Rosemarie
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Classic galactosaemia is caused by a recessively inherited deficiency of the enzyme galactose 1 phosphate uridyl transferase (GALT). Patients with classical galactosaemia are at increased risk of developing cataracts. We sought to retrospectively review the incidence and severity of cataracts in the cohort of galactosaemia patients attending our national treatment centre and to assess a possible effect of dietary compliance on cataract formation and the benefits of regular ophthalmic follow‐up.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical notes of all patients currently attending our centre with classic galactosaemia and identified all those in whom cataracts had been diagnosed by an ophthalmologist. Compliance to diet was also reviewed and compared with a matched control group.

Results

Of 100 active patient charts, 14 had cataracts diagnosed at some stage. Six of these persisted whereas eight regressed. Three occurred soon after birth. Age at cataract formation varied from soon after birth to 19 years of age. There was no significant difference in the cataract group between those who were compliant and those who were noncompliant with diet (p = 0.09). There was no difference in compliance between the cataract group and the control group (p = 0.16). None of the cataracts found were affecting vision.

Conclusion

Cataracts affecting vision were not found in our cohort. A direct relationship between dietary compliance and cataract formation was not demonstrated. On the basis of our data, regular life‐long ophthalmic exam of patients with classic galactosemia seems to be unnecessary.

Take‐home message

Cataracts which develop in patients with classical Galactosaemia do not usually affect vision and may be unrelated to compliance to diet.
Disease mechanisms and protein structures in fatty acid oxidation defects
Authors: Gregersen Niels , Olsen Rikke K. J.
Published: February 2010

In fatty acid oxidation defects, the majority of gene variations are of the missense type and, therefore, prone to inducing misfolding in the resulting mutant protein. The fate of the mutant protein depends on the nature of the gene variation and other genetic factors as well as cellular and environmental factors. Since it has been shown that certain fatty acid oxidation enzyme proteins, exemplified by mutant medium‐chain and short‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenases as well as electron transfer flavoprotein and electron transfer flavoprotein dehydrogenase, may accumulate during cellular stress, e.g. elevated temperature, there is speculation about how such proteins may disturb the integrity of the putative fatty acid oxidation metabolone, in which the two flavoproteins link the matrix‐located acyl‐CoA dehydrogenases to the respiratory chain in the mitochondrial inner membrane. However, since studies so far have not been able to define the fatty acid oxidation metabolone, it is concluded that new concepts and refined techniques are required to answer these questions and thereby contribute to the elucidation of the cellular pathophysiology and the genotype–phenotype relationship in fatty acid oxidation defects.
Oligodendrocyte development and myelinogenesis are not impaired by high concentrations of phenylalanine or its metabolites
Authors: Schoemans Renaud , Aigrot Marie‐Stéphane , Wu Chaohong , Marée Raphaël , Hong Pengyu , Belachew Shibeshi , Josse Claire , Lubetzki Catherine , Bours Vincent
Published: February 2010

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a metabolic genetic disease characterized by deficient phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzymatic activity. Brain hypomyelination has been reported in untreated patients, but its mechanism remains unclear. We therefore investigated the influence of phenylalanine (Phe), phenylpyruvate (PP), and phenylacetate (PA) on oligodendrocytes. We fisrt showed in a mouse model of PKU that the number of oligodendrocytes is not different in corpus callosum sections from adult mutants or from control brains. Then, using enriched oligodendroglial cultures, we detected no cytotoxic effect of high concentrations of Phe, PP, or PA. Finally, we analyzed the impact of Phe, PP, and PA on the myelination process in myelinating cocultures using both an in vitro index of myelination, based on activation of the myelin basic protein (MBP) promoter, and the direct quantification of myelin sheaths by both optical measurement and a bioinformatics method. None of these parameters was affected by the increased levels of Phe or its derivatives. Taken together, our data demonstrate that high levels of Phe, such as in PKU, are unlikely to directly induce brain hypomyelination, suggesting involvement of alternative mechanisms in this myelination defect.
Caring for the Caregivers: An Investigation of Factors Related to Well‐Being Among Parents Caring for a Child with Smith‐Magenis Syndrome
Authors: Foster Rebecca H. , Kozachek Stephanie , Stern Marilyn , Elsea Sarah H.
Published: February 2010

Smith‐Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a complex disorder characterized by numerous challenges, including intellectual disability, speech delay, decreased pain sensitivity, sleep disturbances, hyperactivity, mood instability, and self‐injury. Caregivers must readily adapt to the ever‐changing needs of the child. Due to these demands, caregivers may encounter difficulties maintaining their own level of well‐being. Thus, a total of 112 primary caregivers (i.e., parents) of individuals diagnosed with SMS responded to online questionnaires to assess demographic and psychosocial factors, such as perceptions of child health vulnerability, benefit finding, sleep behaviors, anxiety and depression symptomatology, and caregiver satisfaction and self‐efficacy, which may be related to caregiver well‐being. Results show that, among mothers, caregiver well‐being was directly related to perceived child health vulnerability, caregiver satisfaction, and benefit finding, and a significant moderating effect was observed for depression/anxiety counseling after beginning the caregiver role on the relationship between anxiety symptomatology and caregiver well‐being. Results further suggest that maternal caregivers who report high levels of anxiety but do not seek counseling fair the worst in terms of well‐being. Among fathers, lower depression symptoms and greater benefit finding were related to higher levels of caregiver well‐being. These data show that many factors play roles in influencing coping and well‐being among SMS caregivers. Investigating these variables and relationships may reveal additional resources and interventions to assist primary caregivers.
Prosperity and Decline: A Comparison of the Fate of Jingdezhen, Zhuxianzhen, Foshan and Hankou in Modern Times
Authors: He Yimin
Published: February 2010

With the development of the commodity economy, towns became a new form in China’s urban landscape during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Of those towns, Jingdezhen, Zhuxianzhen, Foshan and Hankou, which were titled “The Four Famous Towns” in China, entered into a phase of thriving economic development. Their economies mostly could be considered as the resourceexploitation type, the comprehensive development type, and the commoditydistribution type. There were in fact several common factors found in these four towns. However, as Chinese history moved into its modern phase, foreign inputs, new social forces, and changing political systems all posed serious challenges to traditional towns. Modern development in the four towns took divergent paths. The town of Hankou developed rapidly, but the other three towns declined. From the different fates of these towns, important factors of urban modernization can be pried out.
The Roles of Tea and Opium in Early Economic Globalization: A Perspective on China’s Crisis in the 19th Century
Authors: Zhong Weimin
Published: February 2010

Alongside military conquest which characterized great part of globalization during the 19th century, the globalization of markets no doubt was its main manifestation. Addictive consumption goods played a leading role during this process, as observed in the case of China, tea and the opium trade had the largest impact. Owing to the importance of Britain’s growing demand for tea and its concomitant tax revenue, Anglo-Chinese trade became the dominant trade that Britain had in the East. To make up the trade deficit with China, Britain took advantage of its Indian colony and did its best in expanding its opium trade. Within this triangular trade scheme, Britain was the master, India was the instrument, and China was the ultimate victim. Confronted by the irresistible trend of globalization, China was ill prepared when facing this challenge leading to a complete failure in both military and commercial warfare and later on to an overall crisis in the 19th century.
Bridal Dowry Land and the Economic Status of Women from Wealthy Families in the Song Dynasty
Authors: Lü Bianting
Published: February 2010

Prosperous families in the Song Dynasty maintained the custom that a daughter went to her husband’s household with a piece of land to ensure her economic position. During the Song Dynasty, the economic status of women from wealthy families was maintained at a high level. Neo-Confucian doctrines attempted to change the situation largely but they failed, even though during the Southern Song Dynasty Neo-Confucianism gradually rose to stand as the national ideology. Some people clamored for the Southern Song Dynasty regime to eliminate or to limit the custom of bridal dowry land in private, but the majority still favored the judicial practice in the protection of the wife’s right to her property.
The Haircutting Movement in Modern China (1903–1927): Analysis from the View of “Body”
Authors: Yao Fei
Published: February 2010

Modern China was an intense period of “body rebuilding.” Within the field of body history in China, the modern Chinese history has been rediscovered and reinterpreted from the view of “body.” In this paper, the author attempts to explore the movement of women’s haircutting in modern China and analyzes its social and political meaning from the view of body organ, gender, politics and culture. The conclusion is that the women’s haircutting movement in modern China was involved in the pursuit of state power, women’s rights, and political power in different levels.
Courage in The Analects: A Genealogical Survey of the Confucian Virtue of Courage
Authors: Lisheng CHEN
Published: February 2010

The different meanings of “courage” in The Analects were expressed in Confucius’ remark on Zilu’s bravery. The typological analysis of courage in Mencius and Xunzi focused on the shaping of the personalities of brave persons. “Great courage” and “superior courage”, as the virtues of “great men” or “shi junzi 士君子 (intellectuals with noble characters)”, exhibit not only the uprightness of the “internal sagacity”, but also the rich implications of the “external kingship”. The prototype of these brave persons could be said to be between Zengzi’s courage and King Wen’s courage. The discussion entered a new stage of Neo-Confucianism in the Song and Ming dynasties, when admiration for “Yanzi’s great valor” became the key of various arguments. The order of “the three cardinal virtues” was also discussed because it concerned the relationship between “finished virtue” and “novice virtue”; hence, the virtue of courage became internalized as an essence of the internal virtuous life. At the turn of the 20th century, when China was trembling under the threat of foreign powers, intellectuals remodeled the tradition of courage by redefining “Confucius’ great valor”, as Liang Qichao did in representative fashion in his book Chinese Bushido. Hu Shi’s Lun Ru 论儒 (On Ru) was no more than a repetition of Liang’s opinion. In the theoretical structures of the modern Confucians, courage is hardly given a place. As one of the three cardinal virtues, bravery is but a concept. In a contemporary society where heroes and sages exist only in history books, do we need to talk about courage? How should it be discussed? These are questions which deserve our consideration.
The Spirit of the School of Principles in Zhu Xi's Discussion of "Dreams"—And on "Confucius did not Dream of Duke Zhou"
Authors: Yu CHANG
Published: February 2010

Dreams were a topic of study even in ancient times, and they are a special spiritual phenomenon. Generations of literati have defined the meaning of dreams in their own way, while Zhu Xi was perhaps the most outstanding one among them. He made profound explanations of dreams from aspects such as the relationship between dreams and the principles li and qi, the relationship between dreams and the state of the heart, and the relationship between dreams and an individual’s moral improvement. He summarized previous generations’ understanding of dreams and infused a new dimension from the School of Principles, pointing out a direction for individuals’ moral cultivation and spiritual pursuit. Zhu Xi also examined the opinions of Zhang Zai, Cheng Yi, Hu Hong and other thinkers on Confucius not dreaming of Duke Zhou in his later years, revealing differences between thinkers in the School of Principles. An analysis of Zhu Xi’s thoughts on dreams will provide deeper insight into the research on the School of Principles.
A Sense of Awe: On the Differences between Confucian Thought and Christianity
Authors: Jiantao REN
Published: February 2010

The fundamental importance of reverence is recognized by all major world cultures. Confucianism’s account of “The three things of which the sage is in awe” is seen in Chinese culture through the value placed on reverence. “The three things of which the sage is in awe” both manifests itself as an approach to value and is also an expression of practical ethical guidance. The essential aspect of reverence is a sincere and ethical outlook; accordingly it is a part of virtue ethics. In this kind of virtue ethics, ethical practice accords with self-conscious conduct that is guided by a sense of reverence, and this forms the guiding thought of Confucianism. From a comparative cultural perspective, the Confucian sense of reverence founded upon ethical self-awareness and Christian sense of reverence founded on divine worship are different. However, both take reverence to be the root of culture, thus proving that reverence is an element that none of the world’s major cultures can be without. In the early modern period, a sense of reverence was seen something enchanted and harmful to the rational progress of civilization. However, the contemporary reenchantment movements in some ways call up a return to such reverence.
Osteoid Osteoma of the Thumb: A Case Report
Authors: Galdi Balazs , Capo John T. , Nourbakhsh Ali , Patterson Francis
Published: February 2010

Osteoid osteoma is a rare occurrence in the hand, and only a small percentage affects the thumb and distal phalanges. An 18-year-old right-hand-dominant man presented to our office with an approximately 1-year history of left thumb pain without any history of trauma. He had seen several doctors previously and undergone multiple diagnostic tests with no definitive diagnosis. Plain radiographs and computed tomography at our institution were consistent with the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. The patient was treated with surgical excision of the lesion without bone grafting. The diagnosis of osteoid osteoma was confirmed by pathology. At 6 months follow-up, the patient showed complete resolution of pain and full restoration of hand function. This case demonstrates that osteoid osteoma should not be forgotten as a differential diagnosis in patients with finger pain, especially in individuals who have not yet or just recently have reached skeletal maturity.
The Role of Active Surveillance in the Management of Early Prostate Cancer and the Impact of the NICE Guidelines
Authors: Boddy J. , Lai N. , Lynch C. , Shahzad S.A. , Doherty A.P. , Wallace D.M.A. , Bhatt R.I.
Published: February 2010

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to assess the implementation of AS in the management of early PC within a typical urology department and determine the impact of the NICE guidelines on this.

Materials and methods:

Three cohorts of 100 patients diagnosed with PC were identified. Patient computer records and hospital notes were used to collect data on diagnosis and management details for each individual. Management strategies were then assessed and compliance with several key NICE guideline recommendations determined.

Results:

For low risk disease, 92% were offered active surveillance (AS) in 2006, 92% in 2007 and 93% in 2008. Of these 41% of patients in 2006 elected for AS, 61% in 2007 and 72% in 2008. For intermediate risk disease the percentages offered AS were 77% in 2006, 96% in 2007 and 84% in 2008. Of these patients 27%, 38% and 29% of patients elected for AS respectively.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that many of the recommendations made were already in practise prior to its publication. It also highlights an increase in the number of men electing for AS and that this trend preceded the guidelines. This increased uptake however, appears limited to low risk disease suggesting better patient awareness.