bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular senescence occurring in the rabbit medial collateral ligament during healing
Authors: Hsu Wei‐Hsiu , Peng Kuo‐Ti , Lai Li‐Ju , Hung Chien‐Hui , Chang Pey‐Jium
Published: September 2012

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) healing proceeds in a temporally ordered fashion after injury. Despite the critical roles of fibroblasts during ligament repair, the phenotypic features of these healing fibroblasts have not been well characterized. Here, we show that healing MCL fibroblasts obtained from rabbits at 3‐week postinjury exhibited higher rates of senescent phenotypes and produced higher levels of TGF‐β1, collagens, α‐SMA, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), than the corresponding fibroblasts from sham‐operated MCLs. Mechanical stretch further enhanced the cellular senescence and the expression of TGF‐β1, collagens, α‐SMA, and MMPs in both sham and healing MCL fibroblasts. In addition to MCL fibroblasts at 3‐week postinjury, the increased cellular senescence was also detected in healing MCL fibroblasts obtained at 4‐ and 6‐week postinjury. Most importantly, the association between the cellular senescence and ligament healing was confirmed in tissue sections by the senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal) staining. Using a recombinant TGF‐β1 and a neutralizing antibody, we found that those phenotypic changes, such as cellular senescence and the expression of collagens and MMPs, in MCL fibroblasts under mechanical loading conditions were regulated through TGF‐β1. Taken together, our results propose that cellular senescence and turnover of extracellular matrixes regulated by TGF‐β1 in MCL fibroblasts are critical for ligament healing. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:81–90, 2012
New results in the characterization by Raman spectroscopy of yellow pigments used in ceramic artworks of the 16th and 17th centuries
Authors: Ferrer P. , Ruiz‐Moreno S. , López‐Gil A. , Chillón M. C. , Sandalinas C.
Published: September 2012

This investigation is focused on the identification in ceramic artworks of certain nonstandard yellow/orange pigments whose composition is based, fundamentally, on lead, tin, and antimony oxides with or without silica. In this work, a comparative study (temporal and geographical) of the employment of these yellow pigments in different production centers, from Italy (Pesaro and Montelupo) and Spain (Talavera de la Reina), during the Renaissance and Baroque epochs has been proposed. For this purpose, special very ancient yellow pigments were acquired from the Stazione Sperimentale del Vetro, Murano‐Venezia (Italy). These reference pigments have been produced following strict and rigorous manufacturing recipes corresponding to Venezian fabrication processes for the 16th and 17th centuries. On the other hand, the portable characteristic of a new optical fiber Raman system has allowed us the access into the Museo de Cerámica de Barcelona in order to investigate the composition of the yellow and orange colors of an important ceramic collection belonging to this museum. The results are in good agreement with the ones obtained by other authors who have investigated the same topic. It is notable, first, the excellent performances that this portable Raman system offers in the direct and non‐invasive analysis of ceramic artworks and, second, the coincidences of the molecular results among these yellow pigments. This fact confirms that these pigments were commonly used either in Italian and Spanish ceramic objects during both Renaissance and Baroque epochs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring the possible interlinked structures in single‐wall carbon nanotubes under pressure by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Lu Shuangchen , Yao Mingguang , Li Quanjun , lv Hang , Liu Dedi , Liu Bo , Liu Ran , Jiang Linhai , Yao Zhen , Liu Zhaodong , Zou Bo , Cui Tian , Liu Bingbing
Published: September 2012

High‐pressure Raman measurements on single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been carried out in a diamond anvil cell by using two wavelength lasers: 830 and 514.5 nm. Irrespective of using a pressure transmitting medium (PTM) or not, we found that nanotubes undergo similar transformations under pressure. The pressure‐induced changes in Raman signals at around 2 and 5 GPa are attributed to the nanotube cross‐section transitions from circle to ellipse and then to a flattened shape, respectively. Especially with pressure increasing up to 15–17 GPa, we observed that the third transition takes place in both the Raman wavenumber and the linewidth of G‐band. We propose explanations that the interlinked configuration with sp3 bonds forms in the bundles of SWNTs under pressure, which was the cause for the occurrence of those Raman anomalies, similar to the structural‐phase transition of graphite above 14 GPa. Our TEM observations and Raman measurements on the decompressed samples support this transition picture. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of age on postural compensation after unilateral deafferentation due to vestibular schwannoma surgery
Authors: Gauchard Gérome C. , Lion Alexis , Perrin Philippe P. , Parietti‐Winkler Cécile
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the age‐related effects of vestibular schwannoma (VS) on postural control and whether the postoperative postural strategies differ according to age.

Study Design:

Longitudinal, transversal study.

Methods:

Forty‐seven VS patients were split into three groups according to age (group I, 14 patients aged from 30 to 44 years; group II, 21 patients aged from 45 to 59 years; and group III, 12 patients aged from 60 to 75 years). All patients underwent vestibular and posturographic testing shortly before as well as 8 days and 3 months after surgical tumor removal.

Results:

Vestibular and postural performance followed a classical time course with degradation just after surgery and recovery 3 months after surgery, whatever the age group. However, in the elderly the improvement of postural performances compared to preoperatively was more important, especially in conflicting situations.

Conclusions:

Despite of age‐related decline in postural control and cognitive processes, neuroplasticity allowed not only a recovery but even an improvement of balance after surgical VS removal in the elderly. This study highlights the interest of VS surgery even at a more advanced age. Laryngoscope, 2012
Changing microbiology of pediatric neck abscesses in iowa 2000–2010
Authors: Walker Paul C. , Karnell Lucy Hynds , Ziebold Christine , Kacmarynski Deborah S.F.
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To examine the changing microbiology of pediatric neck abscesses over a 10‐year period with particular interest in methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections and their associated antibacterial‐resistance patterns, including resistance to clindamycin, a frequently used antibiotic for Staphylococcus aureus.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review at a tertiary academic medical center.

Methods:

One hundred and twenty‐two consecutive pediatric patients managed between January 2000 and June 2010 with incision and drainage of a proven neck abscess.

Results:

Seventy‐four patients with 76 abscesses were identified. A microorganism was found in 65 (85%) of the 76 abscesses. Forty‐three percent grew Staphylococcus aureus (SA), 12% were methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), and 31% were methicillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). There was a significant increase in the incidence of MRSA infections during the study period, with only one case of MRSA diagnosed in the first half of the study (from 2000–2004) compared with seven in the second half (from 2005–2010) (P = 0.023). The second most common bacterial etiology or isolate was Streptococcus pyogenes in 27%, while the remaining 30% grew mixed oral flora and other microorganisms.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate a statistically significant rise in the proportion of MRSA neck infections in pediatric patients in Iowa. Resistance to clindamycin was highest among MSSA isolates. Clindamycin‐resistant S. aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes are established pathogens in neck infections. In communities with similar microbiology patterns, empiric treatment with combination therapy of a beta lactam and vancomycin or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole should be initiated until culture results are available. Laryngoscope, 2013
Incidence and implication of vocal fold paresis following neonatal cardiac surgery
Authors: Dewan Karuna , Cephus Constance , Owczarzak Vicki , Ocampo Elena
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To study the incidence and implications of vocal fold paresis (VFP) following congenital neonatal cardiac surgery.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

All neonates who underwent median sternotomy for cardiac surgery from May 2007 to May 2008 were evaluated. Flexible laryngoscopy was performed to evaluate vocal fold function after extubation. Swallow evaluation and a modified barium swallow study were performed prior to initiating oral feeding if the initial screening was abnormal.

Results:

A total of 101 neonates underwent cardiac surgery during the study period. Ninety‐four patients underwent a median sternotomy, and 76 of these were included in the study. Fifteen (19.7%) had vocal fold paresis (VFP) postoperatively. Almost 27% of the patients with aortic arch surgery had VFP while only 4.1% of the patients with nonaortic arch surgery developed VFP (P=0.02) Those patients who underwent aortic arch surgery weighed significantly less (P<0.01). All the patients with VFP had significant morbidity related to swallowing and nutrition (P=0.01) and required longer postsurgical hospitalization (P=0.02).

Conclusions:

The reported incidence of VFP following cardiac surgery via median sternotomy ranges between 1.7% and 67% depending on the type of surgery and the weight of the infant at the time of surgery. In our cohort, 19.7% had VFP. Surgery requiring aortic arch manipulation had a higher incidence of complications and required longer hospitalizations. These results may be used to improve informed consent and to manage postoperative expectations by identifying patients who are at higher risk for complications.
Evaluating cost and reliability integrated performance of stochastic logistics systems
Authors: Jane Chin‐Chia , Laih Yih‐Wenn
Published: September 2012

The significance of integrating reliability into logistics performance has been established [The Logistics Performance Index and Its Indicators, World Bank International Trade and Transport Departments, (2010)]. Hence, as a response to the work by the World Bank, the present article aims to evaluate the performance indexRb,dof logistics systems as the probability that a specified demanddcan be distributed successfully through multistate arc capacities from the source to the destination under the constraint that the total distribution cost should not exceed the cost limitationb. This article provides a pioneering approach for a straightforward computation of the performance indexRb,d. The proposed algorithm is a hybrid between the polynomial time capacity‐scaling algorithm, which was presented by Edmonds and Karp [JACM 19 (1972)], and the decomposition algorithm, which was presented by Jane and Laih [IEEE (2008)]. Currently, the proposed approach is the only algorithm that can directly computeRb,d. An illustration of the proposed algorithm is presented. The results of the computational experiments indicate that the presented algorithm outperforms existing algorithms. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2012
Nonlinear manifold learning for meshfree finite deformation thin‐shell analysis
Authors: Millán Daniel , Rosolen Adrian , Arroyo Marino
Published: September 2012

Calculations on general point‐set surfaces are attractive because of their flexibility and simplicity in the preprocessing but present important challenges. The absence of a mesh makes it nontrivial to decide if two neighboring points in the three‐dimensional embedding are nearby or rather far apart on the manifold. Furthermore, the topology of surfaces is generally not that of an open two‐dimensional set, ruling out global parametrizations. We propose a general and simple numerical method analogous to the mathematical theory of manifolds, in which the point‐set surface is described by a set of overlapping charts forming a complete atlas. We proceed in four steps: (1) partitioning of the node set into subregions of trivial topology; (2) automatic detection of the geometric structure of the surface patches by nonlinear dimensionality reduction methods; (3) parametrization of the surface using smooth meshfree (here maximum‐entropy) approximants; and (4) gluing together the patch representations by means of a partition of unity. Each patch may be viewed as a meshfree macro‐element. We exemplify the generality, flexibility, and accuracy of the proposed approach by numerically approximating the geometrically nonlinear Kirchhoff–Love theory of thin‐shells. We analyze standard benchmark tests as well as point‐set surfaces of complex geometry and topology. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase II study of pre‐irradiation chemotherapy for childhood intracranial ependymoma. Children's Cancer Group protocol 9942: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Garvin James H. , Selch Michael T. , Holmes Emi , Berger Mitchell S. , Finlay Jonathan L. , Flannery Ann , Goldwein Joel W. , Packer Roger J. , Rorke‐Adams Lucy B. , Shiminski‐Maher Tania , Sposto Richard , Stanley Philip , Tannous Raymond , Pollack Ian F. ,   for the Children's Oncology Group
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Standard therapy for childhood intracranial ependymoma is maximal tumor resection followed by involved‐field irradiation. Although not used routinely, chemotherapy has produced objective responses in ependymoma, both at recurrence and in infants. Because the presence of residual tumor following surgery is consistently associated with inferior outcome, the potential impact of pre‐irradiation chemotherapy was investigated.

Methods

Between 1995 and 1999, the Children's Cancer Group undertook a Phase II trial of pre‐irradiation chemotherapy in children 3–21 years of age with intracranial ependymoma and radiological evidence of post‐operative residual tumor.

Results

Of 84 patients, 41 had residual tumor, and were given four cycles of cisplatin‐based chemotherapy prior to irradiation. Of 35 patients fully evaluable for response to chemotherapy, 14 (40%) demonstrated complete response, 6 (17%) partial response, 10 (29%) minor response or stable disease, and 5 (14%) demonstrated progressive tumor growth. For the entire group, 5‐year overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS) was 71 ± 6%, and 57 ± 6%, respectively. The pre‐irradiation chemotherapy group demonstrated EFS comparable to that of patients with no residual tumor who received irradiation alone (55 ± 8% vs. 58 ± 9%, P = 0.45). Any benefit of chemotherapy was restricted to patients with greater than 90% tumor resection.

Conclusions

Children with near total resection of ependymoma may benefit from pre‐irradiation chemotherapy. Patients with subtotal resection have inferior outcome despite responses to chemotherapy, and should be considered for second‐look surgery prior to irradiation. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 1183–1189. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor use and pneumonia risk in community‐dwelling older adults: results from a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Dublin Sascha , Walker Rod L. , Jackson Michael L. , Nelson Jennifer C. , Weiss Noel S. , Jackson Lisa A.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

To test whether angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor use is associated with decreased risk of community‐acquired pneumonia in older adults.

Methods

We analyzed data from a nested case–control study of community‐dwelling, immunocompetent adults aged 65–94 within an integrated healthcare delivery system. Cases of ambulatory and hospitalized pneumonia from 2000 to 2003 were identified from International Classification of Disease, version 9, codes and validated using medical record review. Controls were matched to cases by age, sex, and calendar year. Using health plan pharmacy data, we defined current use as filling ≥2 prescriptions during the 180 days prior to the case's diagnosis date. We calculated standardized doses per day using World Health Organization defined daily doses. Multivariable conditional logistic regression estimated adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for pneumonia in relation to ACE inhibitor use, adjusting for comorbidity, functional and cognitive status, and other covariates from medical record review and pharmacy data.

Results

Current use of ACE inhibitors was seen in 23% (242/1039) of cases and 21% (433/2022) of controls. Lisinopril accounted for 95% of prescriptions. The OR for pneumonia comparing current use to no current use was 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83–1.19). The OR for use of more than two standardized daily doses per day was 1.39 (95% CI 0.93–2.06) compared to no current use.

Conclusions

ACE inhibitor use is not associated with reduced pneumonia risk in community‐dwelling older adults. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Selection of the Initial Methadone Regimen for the Management of Iatrogenic Opioid Abstinence Syndrome in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Johnson Peter N. , Boyles Krystal A. , Miller Jamie L.
Published: September 2012

Iatrogenic opioid abstinence syndrome (IOAS) is a common complication in critically ill infants and children receiving prolonged exposure to continuous infusions of opioids. Although no guidelines are available regarding management of IOAS in children, several treatment options are available, including clonidine, morphine, and methadone. Methadone is commonly prescribed due to its long half‐life and antagonism of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor. Different approaches, such as weight‐based and formula‐based methods, have been used to determine the initial methadone dosing regimen. Because of the vast differences in the recommended dosing regimen from these sources, we conducted a literature search to identify articles evaluating the initial methadone dosing regimen for prevention and/or treatment of IOAS in children. Specifically, we evaluated the reported frequency of withdrawal and oversedation after initiation of methadone treatment. Our literature search was limited to English‐language articles in the MEDLINE (1950–March 2011), EMBASE (1988–March 2011), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–March 2011), and Cochrane Library (1996–March 2011) databases. Relevant abstracts and reference citations were also reviewed. A total of eight reports representing 183 patients were included in the analysis. There was wide discrepancy in the initial methadone dosing regimen. Approximately one‐third of all patients experienced withdrawal after starting methadone, and there did not appear to be a difference between weight‐based and formula‐based regimens. Seven patients experienced oversedation; however, not all articles reported this complication. It appears that a standard approach to initial methadone dosing does not exist because withdrawal occurred despite the regimen started. Therefore, it seems best to begin with the lowest dose possible and titrate to the child's response to avoid complications such as oversedation. Routine monitoring should be performed in all patients to guide clinicians in the management of IOAS.
Impaired Maraviroc and Raltegravir Clearance in a Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Patient with End‐Stage Liver Disease and Renal Impairment: A Management Dilemma
Authors: Pau Alice K. , Penzak Scott R. , Boyd Sarita D. , McLaughlin Mary , Morse Caryn G.
Published: September 2012

Current product labels for maraviroc and raltegravir provide no dosing guidance for patients with end‐stage liver disease and worsening renal function. We describe a 41‐year‐old man with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and rapidly progressive liver failure and vanishing bile duct syndrome at presentation. Despite discontinuation of all potential offending drugs, the patient's liver function continued to deteriorate. To achieve and maintain HIV suppression while awaiting liver transplantation, a regimen consisting of maraviroc, raltegravir, and enfuvirtide was started. These agents were chosen because the patient was not exposed to them before the onset of liver failure. While receiving product label–recommended twice‐daily dosing of these drugs, he achieved and maintained HIV suppression. During a complicated and prolonged hospitalization, the patient also developed renal dysfunction. As hepatic metabolism is the primary route of clearance of maraviroc and raltegravir, we predicted that using approved doses of these drugs could result in significant drug accumulation. Since the safety profiles of supratherapeutic concentrations of these agents are not well defined, we chose to use therapeutic drug monitoring to guide further dosing. The reported concentrations showed severely impaired metabolic clearance of both drugs, with markedly prolonged elimination half‐lives of 189 hours for maraviroc and 61 hours for raltegravir. Previously reported half‐lives for maraviroc and raltegravir in HIV‐infected patients with normal hepatic and renal function are 14–18 hours and 9–12 hours, respectively. Based on these results, the dosing intervals were extended from twice/day to twice/week for maraviroc and every 48 hours for raltegravir. Unfortunately, the patient's clinical condition continued to deteriorate, and he eventually died of complications related to end‐stage liver disease. This case illustrates the difficulties in managing antiretroviral therapy in an HIV‐infected patient with combined severe liver and renal failure. Prolonged excessively high exposure to maraviroc and raltegravir is likely to result in some level of concentration‐dependent toxicity. Until more data are available, therapeutic drug monitoring remains the only evidence‐based approach to optimize dosage selection of these drugs in this patient population.
Fracture Risk and Bone Mineral Density Reduction Associated with Proton Pump Inhibitors
Authors: Lau Yuen Ting , Ahmed Nasiya N.
Published: September 2012

Many patients receive prolonged proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy for upper gastrointestinal disorders, but the long‐term safety of PPIs, particularly increased risk of hip and nonhip fractures, has been questioned. To summarize the current literature on the risk of bone mineral density (BMD) reduction and fracture associated with PPI therapy, we conducted a literature search to identify all pertinent studies from 1980–February 2011. A total of 14 observational studies were included in this review. Most studies evaluated the risk of fracture associated with prolonged PPI exposure. Eight studies found an increased fracture risk at the hip, and five studies found an increased fracture risk at the spine associated with PPIs. Three studies showed reduction in fracture risk associated with PPIs after discontinuation for 1 month–1 year. Three studies evaluated the risk of BMD reduction associated with PPIs but did not find consistent changes in baseline or subsequent BMD. The current data suggest a modest increase in the risk of hip fracture and vertebral fracture associated with PPIs, although some studies showed conflicting results. Further studies will be needed to determine whether the increased risk of fracture is due to PPI exposure or residual confounding.
Hansen's Disease (Leprosy): Current and Future Pharmacotherapy and Treatment of Disease‐Related Immunologic Reactions
Authors: Legendre Davey P. , Muzny Christina A. , Swiatlo Edwin
Published: September 2012

Hansen's disease, also known as leprosy, remains an important public health problem throughout the world, including North America. The causative microbe in Hansen's disease is Mycobacterium leprae, an acid‐fast organism that is difficult to grow in vitro. The nine‐banded armadillo is the major animal reservoir in the United States. Manifestations of disease vary based on host immune response and can range from tuberculoid to lepromatous leprosy (paucibacillary to multibacillary disease). Hansen's disease typically affects the skin, nerves, and eyes, and patients may present with skin lesions, weakness, numbness, eye pain, or loss of vision. Definitive diagnosis is based on a combination of physical examination findings and skin biopsy and/or smear. Modern antibacterial therapy typically consists of combinations of dapsone and rifampin with or without clofazimine. Clofazimine is available only as an investigational drug through the National Hansen's Disease Program. Other options include moxifloxacin, ofloxacin, minocycline, and clarithromycin. Hansen's disease is associated with type 1 (reversal) and type 2 (erythema nodosum leprosum) immunologic reactions, during which the disease process appears to worsen dramatically. These reactions may occur at any time before, during, or after treatment. Antibacterial therapy should usually be continued during these reactions. Treatment options for these reactions differ based on clinical manifestations and include corticosteroids, thalidomide, pentoxiphylline, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, and T cell inhibitors. Prompt diagnosis, antimicrobial therapy, and treatment of reactions dramatically reduce complications of the disease.
Vitamin D Supplementation: What's Known, What to Do, and What's Needed
Authors: Haines Stuart T. , Park Sharon K.
Published: September 2012

The use of vitamin D supplements to prevent and treat a wide range of illnesses has increased substantially over the last decade. Epidemiologic evidence links vitamin D deficiency to autoimmune disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, depression, dementia, infectious diseases, musculoskeletal decline, and more. The Institute of Medicine published an exhaustive report in 2010 that concluded that vitamin D supplementation for indications other than musculoskeletal health was not adequately supported by evidence and that most North Americans receive sufficient vitamin D from their diet and sun exposure. These conclusions are at odds with some clinical practice guidelines; thus, we sought to summarize the best available evidence regarding the benefits of vitamin D supplementation, to examine the potential risks, and to provide practical dosing advice. The adequacy of vitamin D stores is determined by measuring the 25‐hydroxyvitamin D serum concentrations. The demarcations between deficiency (< 20 ng/ml), insufficiency (20–30 ng/ml), and optimal (30–80 ng/ml) serum concentrations are controversial. Vitamin D in doses of 800–5000 IU/day improve musculoskeletal health (e.g., reduces the rate of fractures and falls in older adults (aged ≥ 65 yrs). In patients with documented vitamin D deficiency, a cumulative dose of at least 600,000 IU administered over several weeks appears to be necessary to replenish vitamin D stores. Single large doses of 300,000–500,000 IU should be avoided. Vitamin D supplementation should not be offered routinely to other patient populations. Although results from some prospective clinical trials are promising, most have not been robustly designed and executed. The decision by young, otherwise healthy adults to take vitamin D in doses of 2000 IU/day or lower is unlikely to cause harm. For patients who are not at risk for developing vitamin D deficiency, sensible sun exposure is an inexpensive and enjoyable way to maintain vitamin D stores.
Irreversible Atorvastatin‐Associated Hearing Loss
Authors: Liu Michael , Alafris Antonia , Longo Anthony J. , Cohen Henry
Published: September 2012

Drug‐associated ototoxicity is a potentially irreversible adverse event. Among the several 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) available in the United States, only atorvastatin is associated with tinnitus, but none are associated with any forms of hearing loss. A search of the published literature (1950–August 2011) revealed no published case reports of ototoxicity associated with statins. To our knowledge, we describe the first case of progressive, irreversible hearing loss in a 32‐year‐old man 18 months after starting atorvastatin therapy. He began taking atorvastatin 20 mg every evening for treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Six months later, he complained of occasional episodes of tinnitus, which resolved spontaneously. An audiogram was obtained and was normal. By 18 months, the tinnitus became continuous. Another audiogram revealed bilateral “cookie‐bite” middle‐frequency hearing loss. Atorvastatin was immediately discontinued, and the patient was fitted with hearing aids. Four years after drug discontinuation, his hearing loss had neither progressed nor regressed. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale indicated a possible (score of 2) temporal and causal relationship between the patient's hearing loss and atorvastatin. Causes of “cookie‐bite” hearing loss include chronic exposure to loud noises, presbycusis, genetic predisposition, and drugs. The manufacturer of atorvastatin has received three unpublished cases of deafness, but claims that causal relationships were not established. Despite these claims by the manufacturer, based on this case report, we recommend that clinicians and patients be aware of the risk of atorvastatin‐associated tinnitus and permanent hearing loss. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanism and frequency of this adverse event.
Foundations of Project Management Research: An Explicit and Six-Facet Ontological Framework
Authors: Gauthier Jacques-Bernard , Ika Lavagnon A.
Published: September 2012

This article proposes a new, explicit, and integrated ontological framework to stimulate project management research. It suggests that the ontological question should be viewed as a six-facet diamond that represents a set of root assumptions about projects. The article conveys the idea that whenever a project management researcher emphasizes a specific facet, he or she knowingly or unknowingly leaves the other five facets in the dark in his or her research. This article calls for attention on the ground ontological assumptions of project management research in order to transcend the abstract epistemological and methodological debates and concentrate on what really divides the different theoretical positions.
A culturally adapted family intervention for African American families coping with parental cancer: outcomes of a pilot study
Authors: Davey Maureen P. , Kissil Karni , Lynch Laura , Harmon La‐Rhonda , Hodgson Nancy
Published: September 2012

Objectives

The primary objective of this 2‐year pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a culturally adapted family intervention in improving family communication among African American parents coping with cancer and their school‐age children. A secondary objective was to determine its impact on other symptoms of psychosocial distress (depression and anxiety). The third objective was to assess for acceptability and feasibility.

Methods

Using a two‐arm pre‐intervention and post‐intervention prospective design, 12 African American families received five bi‐monthly sessions of either a culturally adapted family intervention (n = 7 families) or psycho‐education treatment (n = 5 families). Parents and their children completed pre‐intervention and post‐intervention questionnaires assessing perceptions of family communication, quality of their relationship, and symptoms of depression. School‐age children additionally completed a questionnaire assessing their levels of anxiety. Consumer satisfaction was also evaluated at post‐intervention.

Results

Parents and school‐age children who completed the culturally adapted family intervention reported significantly better communication with each other and were more satisfied compared with the psycho‐education control group. No changes were noted in symptoms of anxiety or depression. The culturally adapted family intervention was acceptable based on our findings, families' feedback, and rates of retention. Feasibility is uncertain because our oncology clinic approach to recruitment was slower than expected.

Conclusions

Providing culturally adapted family intervention programs to African American families who are coping with parental cancer may result in improved family communication. This pilot study serves as the first step in the development of culturally adapted family intervention programs to help African American families cope with parental cancer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication and Characterizations of Zeolite β–filled Polyethylene Composite Films
Authors: Huang Zhen , Guo Yu‐hua , Zhang Tian‐ming , Zhang Xiao‐hong , Guo Li‐ying
Published: September 2012

A series of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)/linear LDPE (LLDPE)/zeolite H‐β composites at different zeolite contents up to 10 wt% were mixed after melt and blown into film sheets. The resultant films were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and other physical property analyzers. X‐ray diffraction results reflect that either zeolite or polymer phase has maintained its regularly ordered microscopic structure without any observable deterioration. The scanning electron microscope morphological observation shows a good dispersion of zeolite in the PE matrix. Water vapour, oxygen and nitrogen transmission rates are all found to increase after introducing zeolite H‐β. However, tensile strength, elongation, tear strength and puncture resistance are observed to obviously drop with successive increment of zeolite content. Composite film clarity becomes poorer than the pristine film as reflected by the increase of the film haze after adding zeolite H‐β. Finally, the composite films were used as packaging materials for fresh strawberries. The gas composition variations in the packages during 5 days reflect that the O2 and CO2 contents have varied inside and they are apparently dependent on the zeolite loadings in the composite films, subsequently affecting respiration rates of fruit. Our experiments suggest that there is a compromise between zeolite content and film performances like mechanical, optical, barrier and packaging properties. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixture‐of‐exponentials models to explain heterogeneity in studies of the duration of Chlamydia trachomatis infection
Authors: Price Malcolm J. , Ades A.E. , Angelis Daniela De , Welton Nicky J. , Macleod John , Soldan Kate , Turner Katy , Simms Ian , Horner Paddy J.
Published: September 2012

Published studies of the duration of asymptomatic Chlamydia trachomatis infection in women have produced diverse estimates, and most reviewers have not attempted an evidence synthesis. We review the designs of duration studies, distinguishing between the incident cases presenting soon after infection in clinic‐based studies and prevalent cases ascertained in population screening studies. We combine evidence from all studies under fixed‐effect (single clearance rate), random‐effect (study‐specific clearance rate), and mixture‐of‐exponentials models, in which there are either two or three classes of infection that clear at different rates. We can identify classes as ‘passive’ infection and fast‐clearing and slow‐clearing infections. We estimate models by Bayesian MCMC and compared them using posterior mean residual deviance and the deviance information criterion. The single fixed‐effect clearance rate model fitted very poorly. The random‐effect model was adequate but inferior to the two‐class and three‐class mixture of exponentials. According to the two‐class model, the proportion in the first class was 23% (95% CI: 16–31%), and the mean duration of C. trachomatis infection is 1.36 years (95% CI: 1.13–1.63 years). With the three‐rate model, duration was similar, but identification of the proportions in each class (19%, 31%, and 49%) was poor. Although the random‐effect model was descriptively adequate, the extreme degree of between‐study variation in the clearance rate it predicted lacked biological plausibility. Differences in study recruitment and sampling mechanisms, acting through a mixture‐of‐exponentials model, better explains the apparent heterogeneity in duration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Correction of sampling bias in a cross‐sectional study of post‐surgical complications
Authors: Fluss Ronen , Mandel Micha , Freedman Laurence S. , Weiss Inbal Salz , Zohar Anat Ekka , Haklai Ziona , Gordon Ethel‐Sherry , Simchen Elisheva
Published: September 2012

Cross‐sectional designs are often used to monitor the proportion of infections and other post‐surgical complications acquired in hospitals. However, conventional methods for estimating incidence proportions when applied to cross‐sectional data may provide estimators that are highly biased, as cross‐sectional designs tend to include a high proportion of patients with prolonged hospitalization. One common solution is to use sampling weights in the analysis, which adjust for the sampling bias inherent in a cross‐sectional design. The current paper describes in detail a method to build weights for a national survey of post‐surgical complications conducted in Israel. We use the weights to estimate the probability of surgical site infections following colon resection, and validate the results of the weighted analysis by comparing them with those obtained from a parallel study with a historically prospective design. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Embedded software product lines: domain and application engineering model‐based analysis processes
Authors: Belategi Lorea , Sagardui Goiuria , Etxeberria Leire , Azanza Maider
Published: September 2012

Nowadays, embedded systems are gaining importance. At the same time, the development of their software is increasing its complexity, having to deal with quality, cost, and time‐to‐market issues among others. With stringent quality requirements such as performance, early verification and validation become critical in these systems. In this regard, advanced development paradigms such as model‐driven engineering and software product line engineering bring considerable benefits to the development and validation of embedded system software. However, these benefits come at the cost of increasing process complexity. This work presents a process based on UML and MARTE for the analysis of embedded model‐driven product lines. It specifies the tasks, the involved roles, and the workproducts that form the process and how it is integrated in the more general development process. Existing tools that support the tasks to be performed in the process are also described. A classification of such tools and a study of traceability among them are provided, allowing engineering teams to choose the most adequate chain of tools to support the process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spannungsfaktoren für die Bemessung punktgestützter Verglasungen
Authors: Beyer Jörg , Seel Matthias
Published: September 2012

Die Bemessung punktgestützter Verglasungen gehörte bisher zu den größeren Herausforderungen im konstruktiven Glasbau, da die eingeführten technischen Baubestimmungen hierfür kein allgemeingültiges Bemessungsverfahren zur Verfügung stellten. Das statische System einer elastisch gelagerten, punktförmig gestützten Platte wurde daher auf Basis der Finiten‐Elemente‐Methode (FEM) numerisch simuliert, größtenteils mit spezialisierter und kostspieliger Software. Die neue DIN 18008‐3 [1] beschreibt im Anhang C erstmalig ein allgemeines Verfahren zur Bemessung punktgestützter Verglasungen, die durch Tellerhalter gelagert sind. Das Verfahren wird vereinfachtes Verfahren genannt und basiert auf der Aufteilung des Gesamtproblems in lokale und globale Bereiche nach dem Prinzip von St. Venant. Für den Spannungsnachweis im lokalen Bereich werden Spannungsfaktoren zur Umrechnung der Auflagerreaktionen in lokale Spannungsanteile genutzt. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die Herleitung der Spannungsfaktoren auf analytischem Weg und liefert damit eine konsequente Weiterentwicklung des vereinfachten Verfahrens.

Stress component factors as part of the simplified method for the design of glass supported by point fittings according to DIN 18008‐3. The design of glass supported by point fittings has been a challenging task in structural engineering so far because of the lack of a general design method which should be provided by established technical regulations. The calculation of the static system of a plate, which is supported elastically and pointwise, could only be done by numerical simulation using specialized and expensive finite element analysis (FEA) software. The upcoming new standard DIN 18008‐3 [1] introduces in annex C for the first time a general design method for glass with cylindrical boreholes supported by point fittings. The method is called simplified method and is based on the concept of splitting the whole problem into local and global areas according to St. Venant´s principle. The design equation contains stress component factors which are used to convert the support reactions into stress components. This article describes the analytical derivation of the stress component factors and thus is a consequent advancement of the simplified method.
Improving energy efficiency in India: need for a targeted and tailored strategy
Authors: Singh Daljit , Sant Girish , Chunekar Aditya
Published: September 2012

Despite keen interest shown by Indian policymakers and significant efforts to enhance energy efficiency of the Indian economy, progress has been limited. Initial efforts laudably sought to be comprehensive and cover all sectors and subsectors. However, it resulted in limited human and financial resources being spread too thin resulting in sluggish progress in improving energy efficiency. In addition, several of the approaches tried have not been directly applicable in India because of the challenges of limited institutional capacity and human resources. India should reorganize its efforts, and develop a targeted and tailored strategy based on three principles: (1) target efforts at areas where they will bring about the biggest reductions in energy use (‘maximum bang for the buck’); (2) design energy efficiency policies and plans to achieve a radically higher level of implementation; and (3) design programs creatively to succeed under the challenging policy and implementation environment. An approximate estimation of the potential savings in existing and new additions in various consumer categories highlights the importance of new additions particularly in the commercial buildings sector, and the relative importance of different categories. As an example of a tailored and targeted strategy, the paper describes the development of a program for superefficient appliances that is expected to be appropriate for the Indian environment. The paper is intended to add to the discourse on rapid improvement in energy efficiency not only in India, but also in other developing countries that face similar challenges of limited human and financial resources.

This article is categorized under:

Energy Efficiency > Economics and Policy
Developing a data‐transfer model for a novel Wildlife‐tracking network
Authors: Davis Melanie J. , Thokala Sravan , Xing Xinyu , Thompson Hobbs N. , Walsh Daniel P. , Han Richard Y. , Mishra Shivakaht
Published: September 2012

The use of low‐cost, advanced global positioning system (GPS) telemetry devices for wildlife tracking is growing in popularity, especially use of systems that can communicate with each other to track contacts or transfer data. We evaluated the communication and data‐transfer capabilities of a low‐cost, custom‐built GPS telemetry system with an on‐board wireless sensor network using human subjects and captive bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) as an experimental model. We conducted tests in July 2010, at 2 facilities in Colorado, USA. Wireless sensor networks use a collection of nodes to ferry data from one destination to another. We tested data‐transfer capabilities at several transmission strengths (−25 decibel‐milliwatts (dBm), −15 dBm, −10 dBm, −5 dBm, and 0 dBm) and with several types of bodily obstruction (unobstructed, human, bighorn sheep). Under conditions of high transmission strength and low obstruction, a log‐logistic decay curve was the best model for data‐transfer success. Contrastingly, under conditions of low transmission strength and high obstruction, data transfer was noisier, and was best represented by a linear model. Obstruction resulting from the placement of the collar in relation to the subject's body adversely affected the communication abilities of our system, with bighorn sheep lowering baseline data‐transfer success to <50% at low transmission strengths. Obstruction also affected the distance of data transfer for each transmission strength, but bighorn sheep had less of an impact than did humans. Wireless sensor node manufacturers recommend an optimum communications distance for each possible transmission strength, but we suggest that managers calibrate the communications systems of their in‐house‐constructed GPS telemetry systems, preferably by using the target animal subject, in order to optimize operation in field conditions. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Construction of self‐cloning bottom‐fermenting yeast with low vicinal diketone production by the homo‐integration of ILV5
Authors: Kusunoki K. , Ogata T.
Published: September 2012

The vicinal diketones (VDK), such as diacetyl and 2,3‐pentandione, impart an unpleasant butter‐like flavour to beer. Typically, these are required to be reduced below the flavour thresholds during the maturation (lagering) stages of the brewing process. To shorten beer maturation time, we constructed a self‐cloning, bottom‐fermenting yeast with low VDK production by integrating ILV5, a gene encoding a protein that metabolizes α‐acetolactate and α‐aceto‐α‐hydroxybutyrate (precursors of VDK). A DNA fragment containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae‐type ILV5 was inserted upstream of S. cerevisiae‐type ILV2 in bottom‐fermenting yeast to construct self‐cloning strains with an increased copy number of ILV5. Via transformation, ILV2 was replaced with the sulfometuron methyl (SM) resistance gene SMR1B, which differs by a single nucleotide, to create SM‐resistant transformants. The wort fermentation test, using the SC‐ILV5‐homo inserted transformant, confirmed a consecutive reduction in VDK and a shortening period during which VDK was reduced to within the threshold. The concentrations of ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl alcohol, 1‐propanol, isobutyl alcohol and active isoamyl alcohol (flavour components) were not changed when compared with the parent strain. We successfully constructed self‐cloning brewer's yeast in which SC‐ILV5 was homo‐inserted. Using the transformed yeast, the concentration of VDK in fermenting wort was reduced, whereas the concentrations of flavour components were not affected. This genetically stable, low VDK‐producing, self‐cloning bottom‐fermenting yeast would contribute to the shortening of beer maturation time without affecting important flavour components produced by brewer's yeast. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformally coupled scalar black holes admit a flat horizon due to axionic charge
Authors: Bardoux Yannis , Caldarelli Marco M. , Charmousis Christos
Published: September 2012

Abstract

Static, charged black holes in the presence of a negative cosmological constant and with a planar horizon are found in four dimensions. The solutions have scalar secondary hair. We claim that these constitute the planar version of the Martínez-Troncoso-Zanelli black holes, only known up to now for a curved event horizon in four dimensions. Their planar version is rendered possible due to the presence of two, equal and homogeneously distributed, axionic charges dressing the flat horizon. The solutions are presented in the conformal and minimal frame and their basic properties and thermodynamics analysed. Entertaining recent applications to holographic superconductors, we expose two branches of solutions: the undressed axionic Reissner-Nordström-AdS black hole, and the novel black hole carrying secondary hair. We show that there is a critical temperature at which the (bald) axionic Reissner-Nordström-AdS black hole undergoes a second order phase transition to the hairy black hole spontaneously acquiring scalar hair.