bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Children With Migraine in Emergency Departments: National Practice Variation Study
Authors: Richer Lawrence P. , Laycock Keri , Millar Kelly , Fitzpatrick Eleanor , Khangura Simi , Bhatt Maala , Guimont Chantal , Neto Gina , Noseworthy Steve , Siemens Ron , Gouin Serge , Rowe Brian H. ,   for the Pediatric Emergency Research Canada Emergency Department Migraine Group
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Children with migraine may present to an emergency department (ED) when outpatient management has failed; however, only limited research has examined migraine-abortive medications among children.

METHODS:

A retrospective chart review of ED presentations for migraine or headache between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2005, in 10 Canadian pediatric EDs was conducted. A priori, evidence-based treatments were defined as any treatment that was based on high-quality evidence and an absence of opioids as first-line agents.

RESULTS:

A total of 2515 records were screened, and 1694 (67.4%) met inclusion criteria. The average age of patients was 12.1 years, 14.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 12.1%–17.2%) of patients experienced headache >15 days per month, and 62.6% (95% CI: 55.7%–68.9%) had already used migraine-abortive therapy. Significant variations in practice for all classes of migraine-abortive medications were observed. Dopamine receptor antagonists (prochlorperazine, metoclopramide, or chlorpromazine) (39% [95% CI: 28.4%–50.8%]) and orally administered analgesics (acetaminophen and ibuprofen) (24.5% [95% CI: 23.9%–46.8%]) were prescribed most commonly. Predictors for the use of evidence-based treatment included older age (odds ratio: 1.15 [95% CI: 1.07–1.24]) and a discharge diagnosis of migraine (odds ratio: 1.84 [95% CI: 1.11–3.05]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Children presenting to EDs for treatment often have frequent attacks and have experienced failure of outpatient, migraine-abortive efforts. Practice variations were impressive for the care of children with migraine in these Canadian EDs.
Smoke-Free Air Laws and Secondhand Smoke Exposure Among Nonsmoking Youth
Authors: Dove Melanie S. , Dockery Douglas W. , Connolly Gregory N.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVES:

We investigated the association between smoke-free law coverage and cotinine among nonsmoking youth (3–19 years) with and without home secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure.

METHODS:

We used data from the 1999–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a cross-sectional survey designed to monitor the health and nutritional status of the US population. Serum cotinine levels were available for 11 486 nonsmoking youth from 117 survey locations. Each location was categorized into 1 of 3 groups indicating extensive, limited, and no coverage by a smoke-free law. Cotinine was analyzed both as a dichotomous (≥0.05 ng/mL) and as a continuous outcome.

RESULTS:

Among youth without home SHS exposure, those who were living in a county with extensive coverage of a smoke-free air law had an adjusted 0.61 times (95% confidence interval: 0.48–0.78) the prevalence of detectable cotinine and 0.57 (95% confidence interval: 0.41–0.79) times lower geometric mean compared with youth without a smoke-free air law. Among youth with home SHS exposure, youth with extensive coverage of a smoke-free air law had lower geometric mean cotinine compared with youth who were living in a county without a smoke-free air law, but these differences were no longer observed after adjustment for covariates.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results suggest that smoke-free laws are an effective strategy for reducing cotinine in youth without home SHS exposure; however, among youth with home SHS exposure, no benefit was detected.
Generalized Mechanical Nerve Pain Hypersensitivity in Children With Episodic Tension-type Headache
Authors: Fernández-Mayoralas Daniel M. , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Ortega-Santiago Ricardo , Ambite-Quesada Silvia , Jiménez-García Rodrigo , Fernández-Jaén Alberto
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVES:

The objective of this study was to analyze the presence of generalized pressure pain hypersensitivity over nerve tissues in trigeminal and nontrigeminal regions in children with frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH).

METHODS:

Thirty children, 7 boys and 23 girls (mean age: 8.8 ± 1.7 years) with FETTH and 50 age- and gender-matched healthy children (14 boys, 36 girls; mean age: 8.5 ± 2.1 years; P = .743) were recruited. Pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) were bilaterally assessed over supra-orbital (V1), infra-orbital (V2), mental (V3), median (C5), radial (C6), and ulnar (C7) nerves by an assessor who was blinded to the patient's condition.

RESULTS:

The analysis of variance showed that PPT levels were significantly bilaterally decreased over both trigeminal (supra-orbital, infra-orbital, and mental) and nontrigeminal (median, ulnar, and radial) nerves in children with FETTH as compared with control subjects (all sites, P < .001). There was a greater magnitude of PPT decrease within trigeminal nerves as compared with nontrigeminal nerves (P < .03). PPTs over infra-orbital (rs = −0.4, P < .05) and radial (rs = −0.5, P < .01) nerves were negatively correlated with the duration of headache attacks (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Our study revealed bilateral and generalized pressure hypersensitivity over both trigeminal and nontrigeminal nerves in children with FETTH. Diffuse hypersensitivity of peripheral nerves evidences the presence of hyperexcitability of the central nervous system in children with FETTH.
Impacto do Programa Fica Vivo na redução dos homicídios em comunidade de Belo Horizonte
Authors: Silveira Andréa Maria , Assunção Renato Martins , Silva Bráulio Alves Figueiredo da , Beato Filho Cláudio Chaves
Published: June 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o impacto de programa de prevenção de homicídios. MÉTODOS: Com base nos dados do Programa Fica Vivo, de prevenção de homicídios, foi realizado um estudo quase experimental com análise de séries temporais da ocorrência de homicídios no aglomerado Morro das Pedras, em Belo Horizonte, MG, de 2002 a 2006. Comparou-se o número de homicídios ocorridos nessa localidade com os de outras favelas violentas e não violentas e outros bairros da cidade, em cada uma das fases do Programa. Para testar a hipótese de que a redução dos homicídios resultou das ações implementadas pelo Programa, foi elaborado um modelo estatístico baseado em modelos lineares generalizados. RESULTADOS: Nos primeiros seis meses obteve-se 69% de redução no número médio de homicídios. Nos períodos de refluxo e retomada parcial do Programa, o efeito de redução dos homicídios diminuiu, mas a diferença entre coeficientes com aquele do período inicial não foi estatisticamente significante. Mesmo com a retomada integral do Programa, o efeito continuou similar aos dos períodos anteriores, provavelmente porque o Programa foi implantado em outras favelas violentas da cidade. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados apontam que o modelo do Programa Fica Vivo pode constituir uma importante alternativa para prevenção de homicídios contra jovens em comunidades que apresentem características semelhantes às da experiência piloto no Morro das Pedras.
A Perturbation Method to Analyze the Effect of Cross Section and Angle of Attack for Some Conical Bodies in Hypersonic Flow
Authors: Talebanfard N. , B. Rahimi A.
Published: June 2010

An analysis is performed to study the supersonic flow over conical bodies of three different cross sections
circular, elliptic and squircle (square with rounded corners) shaped. Perturbation method is applied to find flow variables
analytically. In order to find lift and drag forces the pressure force on the body is found, the component along x is drag
and the component along z is lift. Three equations are obtained for lift to drag ratio of each cross section. The graphs for
L/D show that for a particular cross section an increase in angle of attack, increases L/D. Comparing L/D in the three
mentioned cross sections it is obtained that L/D is the greatest in squircle then in ellipse and the least in circle. The results
have applications in design of flying objects such as airplanes where many more seats can be arranged in ellipse and or
squircle cross section compared to regular circular case.
The Linkage Between Solar Insolation and Dust in the Major World Deserts
Authors: Barkan J. , Alpert P.
Published: June 2010

The annual link between the solar insolation, the surface temperature, and the dust load in the atmosphere as estimated by the TOMS Aerosol Index was compared in five major sandy deserts around the globe. A high correlation was found between the insolation and the dust in all deserts, while the correlation of dust with temperature was lower. The peaks of the insolation and the dust occurred almost simultaneously on the same date in three out of the five deserts i.e. Sahara, S.W. North American, Atacama. In the other two deserts i.e., Australian, Taklimakan, the peak of the dust occurs earlier in the year. The temperature peaks occur on a later date in all the deserts. Our conclusion is, that in the deserts of the world the radiation is the major cause of the total dust loading.
Observation of Precipitation and Drop-Size Distribution Associated with a Typhoon using VHF Radar
Authors: Anandan V. K. , Pan C. J. , Reddy K. Krishna , Rao T. Narayana , Bhaskara Rao S. Vijaya
Published: June 2010

This paper describes some of the microphysical and kinematic properties of precipitating systems associated with a typhoon using Chug-Li VHF radar. In order to gain a better understanding of these mechanisms and the vertical structure of the precipitation associated with a typhoon at different stages of development, an analysis has been carried out of the radar back-scattered signal in order to obtain the power, velocity and velocity width of the Doppler spectrum of clear air and hydrometeors. The vertical profiles of raindrop size distribution (DSD) parameters are estimated through model-based regression analysis. The study reveals that during a typhoon, different convective and stratiform types of precipitation occur at different times with varying intensities. This study also reports on some of the characteristic features of the convective systems observed during the typhoon.
Metrics for evaluation of metaprogram complexity
Authors: Damasevicius Robertas , Stuikys Vytautas
Published: June 2010

The concept of complexity is used in many areas of computer science and software engineering. Software complexity metrics can be used to evaluate and compare quality of software development and maintenance processes and their products. Complexity management and measurement is especially important in novel programming technologies and paradigms, such as aspect-oriented programming, generative programming, and metaprogramming, where complex multilanguage and multi-aspect program specifications are developed and used. This paper analyzes complexity management and measurement techniques, and proposes five complexity metrics (Relative Kolmogorov Complexity, Metalanguage Richness, Cyclomatic Complexity, Normalized Difficulty, Cognitive Difficulty) for measuring complexity of metaprograms at information, metalanguage, graph, algorithm, and cognitive dimensions.
A hybrid variable neighborhood search algorithm for solving multi-objective flexible job shop problems
Authors: Li Jun-Qing , Pan Quan-Ke , Xie Sheng-Xian
Published: June 2010

In this paper, we propose a novel hybrid variable neighborhood search algorithm combining with the genetic algorithm (VNS+GA) for solving the multi-objective flexible job shop scheduling problems (FJSPs) to minimize the makespan, the total workload of all machines, and the workload of the busiest machine. Firstly, a mix of two machine assignment rules and two operation sequencing rules are developed to create high quality initial solutions. Secondly, two adaptive mutation rules are used in the hybrid algorithm to produce effective perturbations in machine assignment component. Thirdly, a speed-up local search method based on public critical blocks theory is proposed to produce perturbation in operation sequencing component. Simulation results based on the well-known benchmarks and statistical performance comparisons are provided. It is concluded that the proposed VNS+GA algorithm is superior to the three existing algorithms, i.e., AL+CGA algorithm, PSO+SA algorithm and PSO+TS algorithm, in terms of searching quality and efficiency.
Automation of the moving objects movement prediction process independent of the application area
Authors: Nizetic Ivana , Fertalj Kresimir
Published: June 2010

Whereas research on moving objects is involved in a variety of different application areas, models and methods for movement prediction are often tailored to the specific type of moving objects. However, in most cases, prediction models are taking only historical location in consideration, while characteristics specific to certain type of moving objects are ignored. In this paper, we presented a conceptual model for movement prediction independent on an application area and data model of moving objects considering various object?s characteristics. Related work is critically evaluated, addressing advantages, possible problems and places for improvement. Generic model is proposed, based on an idea to encompass missing pieces in related work and to make the model as general as possible. Prediction process is illustrated on three case studies: prediction of the future location of vehicles, people and wild animals, in order to show their differences and to show how the process can be applied to all of them.
Integration of recommendations and adaptive hypermedia into java tutoring system
Authors: Klasnja-Milicevic Aleksandra , Vesin Boban , Ivanovic Mirjana , Budimac Zoran
Published: June 2010

A way to improve the effectiveness in e-learning is to offer the personalized approach to the learner. Adaptive e-learning system needs to use different strategies and technologies to predict and recommend the most likely preferred options for further learning material. This can be achieved by recommending and adapting the appearance of hyperlinks or simply by recommending actions and recourses. This paper presents an idea for integration of such recommender system into existing web-based Java tutoring system in order to provide various adaptive programming courses.
Software testing optimization by advanced quantitative defect management
Authors: Lazic Ljubomir
Published: June 2010

Software testing provides a means to reduce errors, cut maintenance and overall software costs. Numerous software development and testing methodologies, tools, and techniques have emerged over the last few decades promising to enhance software quality. While it can be argued that there has been some improvement it is apparent that many of the techniques and tools are isolated to a specific lifecycle phase or functional area. This paper presents a set of best practice models and techniques integrated in optimized and quantitatively managed software testing process (OptimalSQM), expanding testing throughout the SDLC. Further, we explained how can Quantitative Defect Management Model be enhanced to be practically useful for determining which activities need to be addressed to improve the degree of early and cost-effective software fault detection with assured confidence is proposed. To enable software designers to achieve a higher quality for their design, a better insight into quality predictions for their design choices, test plans improvement using Simulated Defect Removal Cost Savings model is offered in this paper.
A Unique Case of Unilateral Synophthalmia
Authors: Proia Alan D.
Published: June 2010

Developmental anomalies resulting in a single eye (cyclopia) or fusion of the eyes (synophthalmia) are rare. Examples of unilateral synophthalmia—in which there are 1 normal and 2 fused eyes from 3 anlagen in 2 orbits, 1 lateral proboscis, and 3 optic nerves—are even more rare. Herein, I report a unique fetus with unilateral synophthalmia that was not associated with a lateral proboscis but instead had an extra cerebral hemisphere. I postulate that the unilateral synophthalmia, accessory cerebral hemisphere, and minor structural abnormalities in the skull base were the result of failure in separating a monozygous twin, a situation similar to that postulated as the cause of fetus in fetu.
Constructing a Narrative in the Standard Unexpected Transfer Test in Adolescence and Adulthood
Authors: Białecka-Pikul Marta , Rynda Marta , Syrecka Daria
Published: June 2010

Constructing a Narrative in the Standard Unexpected Transfer Test in Adolescence and Adulthood

The aim of the presented research was the replication and extension of the research by Nelson, Plesa and Henseler (1998), which was the basis for examining the nature of the theory of mind or mentalizing ability (that is, the ability to attribute mental states to other people in order to explain and predict their behaviors) in adolescents and adults. Specifically, its experience-like versus theory-like character. The test, an unexpected transfer task (the Max story), was completed by 827 people aged 13 to 75 (average 21.9). Half of them were supposed to solve the task with a shorter version of the story (including only the facts), and the other half were given the longer version (including descriptions of emotions, beliefs of the protagonist and explanations of ongoing events). All of the answers were then categorized applying Nelson's classification and two other types of analysis. Gender, age and fields of interest were taken into account during analysis of the participants' answers. The Polish respondents rarely answered in a narrative way (only 13%, in contrast to Nelson's result of 46%). Despite the fact that age was not a factor corresponding to a narrative answer, it was proven that older respondents did indeed assume the first person perspective when justifying Max's behavior. Women, more often than men, appealed to the knowledge and the protagonist's way of thinking. The respondents' fields of interest did not seem to diversify the obtained results, nor did the version of the story. The results do not allow us to draw unambiguous conclusions about the nature of the adult's theory of mind, but they form the basis for analyzing the methodology of research on theory of mind.
The Impact of Audio Information Intonation on Understanding Television News Content
Authors: Francuz Piotr
Published: June 2010

The Impact of Audio Information Intonation on Understanding Television News Content

The goal of the research presented in this article is to verify the hypothesis that television viewers have difficulties understanding news content due to inappropriate prosodic articulation used by reporters reading the news. News texts are often read with excessive rhetorical accent and omitting logical accents. Sometimes even the prosodic rules of text segmentation are broken as well. Understanding of news is analyzed in the areas of: (1) appropriately applying words, (2) receiving important, detailed information, (3) synthesis of news content and (4) cause-effect inference. It was found that inappropriate intonation of read news text results in television viewers: (1) being unable to correctly understand the words in accordance with the context of the news content, (2) not remembering the most important details of the news and (3) having problems with pointing out the real causes of events discussed in the news. In addition, it appears that reading of the text by reporters in logical accents and in accordance with the norms of Polish language prosody does not negatively influence the evaluation of news in terms of attractiveness, usefulness and objectivity.
Inspiring Teachers for Energy Education: An Illustrative Case Study in the Latvian Context
Authors: Pipere Anita , Grabovska Rudīte , Jonāne Lolita
Published: June 2010

Inspiring Teachers for Energy Education: An Illustrative Case Study in the Latvian Context

Energy education has become a priority in light of the aims and tasks of the second half of UNESCO Decade of Education for Sustainable Development. This paper focuses on the case of inspiring teachers for energy education in the Latvian context, implemented within the COMENIUS project Inspire School Education by Non-formal Learning. The structure and content aspects of the in-service teacher training course are provided after the introduction to the theme. The methodological approach used in this study is integration of illustrative case study with the elements of programme implementation and programme effects case study. The data were collected by survey, focus group and questionnaire to obtain the teachers' feedback on the training course, its materials and to receive the teachers' self-evaluation on the implementation of the lesson units at their schools. It was concluded that the course had been very successful both from the point of view of the teachers and the course leaders. The described case study could serve as an example for those who would be interested in the design and implementation of similar courses in other contexts and circumstances.
Analysis of Present Conditions and Prospects of the Labour Market Development in Russia
Authors: Volynskyi Vladymir , Zaitzev Victor
Published: June 2010

In this article, based on the statistical data analysis, we consider the labour market in the contemporary Russia in face of global economic crises.

In our opinion, two kinds of programs should be in Russia interest:

coordination of unemployment benefits with vocational training, retraining or additional education;

using the compelled holidays for additional education and retraining.

The target programs directed on strengthening employees’ positions with a high educational level on the labour market are extremely necessary in the Russian conditions. In order to decide on specific problems special departments should be created in the Ministry of Work and Social Development of the Russian Federation.
The premises of the development of the private sector in Poland – some conclusions
Authors: Kozłowski Maciej
Published: June 2010

Processes of transformation in companies or more broadly the economic transformation is a part if a wider process of the systemic transformation. Within this process, a special place is held by the political system, although it should be remembered that these are changes in the economic system which will ultimately determine a success or failure of occurring changes. Parallel, there must be taking place changes in the social structure. These must both consolidate new structures or force out a slowdown in the speed of occurring changes, as well as demand a restoration of old solutions. In a longer time perspective, the preserving of political power will depend on the remodeling of economic system in accordance with the assumed conception, because any significant changes in this system may pave the way for the strengthening of political system. Hence, the speed of occurring transformations plays also an important role here. All this shows that the speed of changes. in the economy must be particularly well balanced and adapted to a concrete situation. Changes in social structures will be taking place at a similar speed enlarging various groups of persons interested in transformation processes. The transformation process will be successful if the main part of the society accepts the system of values corresponding to the new social system. The success of the deep restructuring of economic relations in our economy depends primarily on the effectiveness of the reform aimed to restructuring of ownership in all sectors. This requires a new approach to the prospects of private property growth, i.e. an approach unbiased by any doctrinal prejudices, as well as suggestions glorifying private property as a panacea to cure Poland’s economy. The Polish economy is characterised both by objective and subjective premises in the development of the private sector and a strong motivation of individuals to launch their own business activities in this sector.
International Creative Product Exchange
Authors: Wyszkowska-Kuna Joanna
Published: June 2010

The aim of this paper is to analyze and evaluate international trade in creative products with respect to the position of Poland in this exchange. In the introduction some definitions of creative industries and the concept of creative economy are presented. Then the classification of creative products in international trade and some problems with collecting data relating to international trade in creative products are discussed. In further work an empirical analysis of international trade in creative products is carried out. This work is divided into two parts. The aim of the first part is to indicate main tendencies and key players in international creative products exchange. The aim of the second part is to analyze the position of Poland in this exchange. The empirical analysis is based on the first database and report relating to international creative products exchange, published in 2008 by UNCTAD.
Judges' Attitudes about and Experiences with Sentencing Circles in Intimate-Partner Abuse Cases
Authors: Belknap Joanne , McDonald Courtney
Published: June 2010

During the 1980s and 1990s, two important changes that occurred in criminal processing were seemingly at odds for intimate-partner abuse cases. The first was the move to treat gender-violence cases more seriously and more punitively. The second was the design and implementation of restorative justice practices, which was mandated for consideration in First Nations cases in R. v. Gladue in 1999. There has also been an ongoing debate globally as to whether restorative justice is appropriate in gender-violence cases. Additionally, some First Nations scholars worry that restorative justice is simply another way of controlling and punishing Aboriginal peoples. This study draws on interviews with 27 judges in a large Western province, a year before the Gladue decision, regarding their attitudes to and experiences with sentencing circles in intimate-partner abuse cases. The findings suggest cautious judicial support tempered by serious concerns.
Youth Justice in Canada: Theoretical Perspectives of Youth Probation Officers
Authors: Corrado Raymond R. , Gronsdahl Karla , MacAlister David , Cohen Irwin M.
Published: June 2010

The Youth Criminal Justice Act, like its predecessor, the Young Offenders Act, incorporates philosophies, principles, and procedures from several theoretical models of youth justice. Concerns have been raised regarding how challenging it is for the various youth justice professionals responsible for implementing this law to apply it consistently across cases with varying characteristics. This article reports on a study of youth probation officers in British Columbia under the YCJA. It involves probation officers' reviewing five, actual, serious and/or violent young offender cases from across Canada. Their theoretical orientations to the different cases were derived from divergent models of youth justice. Despite the hypothesis that probation officers' responses would vary on the basis of case characteristics, overwhelming consistencies were evident in four of the five cases. The probation officers' approach typically rejected sentencing recommendations drawn from polarized models of youth justice, such as welfare or as crime control. Instead, probation officers preferred a model that represented a more eclectic approach, such as corporatist and modified justice.
Significance of Micrometastases: Circulating Tumor Cells and Disseminated Tumor Cells in Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Oakman Catherine , Pestrin Marta , Bessi Silvia , Galardi Francesca , Di Leo Angelo
Published: June 2010

Adjuvant systemic therapy targets minimal residual disease. Our current clinical approach in the adjuvant setting is to presume, rather than confirm, the presence of minimal residual disease. Based on assessment of the primary tumor, we estimate an individual’s recurrence risk. Subsequent treatment decisions are based on characteristics of the primary tumor, with the presumption of consistent biology and treatment sensitivity between micrometastases and the primary lesion. An alternative approach is to identify micrometastatic disease. Detection of disseminated tumor cells (DTC) in the bone marrow and circulating tumor cells (CTC) from peripheral blood collection may offer quantification and biocharacterization of residual disease. This paper will review the prognostic and predictive potential of micrometastatic disease in early breast cancer.
Shape-Memory Properties of Segmented Polymers Containing Aramid Hard Segments and Polycaprolactone Soft Segments
Authors: Schuh Christian , Schuh Kerstin , Lechmann Maria C. , Garnier Louis , Kraft Arno
Published: June 2010

A series of segmented multiblock copolymers containing aramid hard segments and extended polycaprolactone soft segments (with an Mn of 4,200 or 8,200 g mol–1) was prepared and tested for their shape-memory properties. Chain extenders were essential to raise the hard segment concentration so that an extended rubbery plateau could be observed. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis provided a useful guide in identifying (i) the presence of a rubbery plateau, (ii) the flow temperature, and (iii) the temperature when samples started to deform irreversibly.
Sensor Systems for Prognostics and Health Management
Authors: Cheng Shunfeng , Azarian Michael H. , Pecht Michael G.
Published: June 2010

Prognostics and health management (PHM) is an enabling discipline consisting of technologies and methods to assess the reliability of a product in its actual life cycle conditions to determine the advent of failure and mitigate system risk. Sensor systems are needed for PHM to monitor environmental, operational, and performance-related characteristics. The gathered data can be analyzed to assess product health and predict remaining life. In this paper, the considerations for sensor system selection for PHM applications, including the parameters to be measured, the performance needs, the electrical and physical attributes, reliability, and cost of the sensor system, are discussed. The state-of-the-art sensor systems for PHM and the emerging trends in technologies of sensor systems for PHM are presented.
On the Interaction of Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin with Claudins
Authors: Veshnyakova Anna , Protze Jonas , Rossa Jan , Blasig Ingolf E. , Krause Gerd , Piontek Joerg
Published: June 2010

Clostridium perfringens causes one of the most common foodborne illnesses, which is largely mediated by the Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE). The toxin consists of two functional domains. The N-terminal region mediates the cytotoxic effect through pore formation in the plasma membrane of the mammalian host cell. The C-terminal region (cCPE) binds to the second extracellular loop of a subset of claudins. Claudin-3 and claudin-4 have been shown to be receptors for CPE with very high affinity. The toxin binds with weak affinity to claudin-1 and -2 but contribution of these weak binding claudins to CPE-mediated disease is questionable. cCPE is not cytotoxic, however, it is a potent modulator of tight junctions. This review describes recent progress in the molecular characterization of the cCPE-claudin interaction using mutagenesis, in vitro binding assays and permeation studies. The results promote the development of recombinant cCPE-proteins and CPE-based peptidomimetics to modulate tight junctions for improved drug delivery or to treat tumors overexpressing claudins.
Intact NKG2D-Independent Function of NK Cells Chronically Stimulated with the NKG2D Ligand Rae-1
Authors: Champsaur Marine , Beilke Joshua N. , Ogasawara Kouetsu , Koszinowski Ulrich H. , Jonjic Stipan , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: June 2010

Human tumors frequently express membrane-bound or soluble NK group 2, member D (NKG2D) ligands. This results in chronic engagement of NKG2D on the surfaces of NK and CD8+ T cells and rapid internalization of the receptor. Although it is well appreciated that this phenomenon impairs NKG2D-dependent function, careful analysis of NKG2D-independent functions in cells chronically stimulated through NKG2D is lacking. Using a mouse model of chronic NKG2D ligand expression, we show that constant exposure to NKG2D ligands does not functionally impair NK cells and CD8+ T cells in the context of viral infection.
Repeatability of a Short Food Frequency Questionnaire to Assess Calcium Intake in Older Australians
Authors: Miller Michelle , Yeo Yee Chi , Khor May Jiun , Clover Emma , Magarey Anthea
Published: June 2010

Objective. To assess the repeatability of the validated Flinders Calcium Food Frequency Questionnaire(FFQCA)for estimating dietary calcium intake in a sample of community dwelling older Australians.Methods. A test-retest repeatability study involving 100 subjects (≥65 years) living independently in metropolitan Adelaide, Australia. Estimates of daily calcium intake from the first(FFQCA1)and repeated administration(FFQCA2)were calculated from two versions (35-item and 15-item) of theFFQCA. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the repeatability.Results. Moderate and comparable ICC values (r=0.5,r=0.6) were found across the two versions of theFFQCA.Conclusion. BothFFQCAversions demonstrated moderate repeatability, supporting the results of previous studies.
Acitretin systemic and retinoic acid 0.1% cream suppression of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Xi-Bao , Zhang San-Quan , Li Chang-Xing , Huang Zhen-Ming , Luo Yu-Wu
Published: June 2010

Retinoids have been used for years as monotherapy and/or in combination for treatment and suppression of cutaneous malignancies in patients with basal cell nevus syndrome, xeroderma pigmentosum, or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) basal cell carcinoma (BCC). We report 4 cases with BCC confirmed by histopathology who were treated by short-term systemic acitretin combined with retinoic acid 0.1% cream. The 4 cases with BCC showed good response to the treatment without severe adverse effects during treatment and follow-up. The finding suggests that acitretin may be an appropriate treatment option for elderly patients who require less invasive treatment for BCC.
In vitro Activity of Tigecycline Against Patient Isolates Collected during Phase 3 Clinical Trials for Hospital Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Petersen Peter J. , Tuckman Margareta , Jones Hal
Published: June 2010

The in vitro activity of tigecycline was evaluated against 819 baseline pathogens isolated from 383 patients enrolled in the phase 3 clinical trial investigating the efficacy of tigecycline in hospital acquired pneumonia (HAP). The trials were global, enrolling patients in 27 countries. Tigecycline was active against the most prevalent pathogens in HAP, including gram-positive and gram-negative strains (90% of MICs ≤2 μg/mL for the entire collection). The spectrum of activity of tigecycline included important pathogens such as Staphylo- coccus aureus (including methicillin-resistant S. aureus), Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii/calcoaceticus complex, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Enterobacter cloacae. As reported previously, a few genera, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the Proteeae, were generally less susceptible to tigecycline by comparison to other gram-negative pathogens. The excellent in vitro, expanded, broad-spectrum activity of tigecycline in the clinical isolates confirmed the potential utility of tigecycline for pathogens associated with with hospital acquired pneumonia infections.
Clinical research training of Peruvian neurologists: a baseline assessment
Authors: Navarro-Chumbes Gian Carlos , Montano-Torres Silvia Margarita , Díaz-Vásquez Alberto , Zunt Joseph Raymond
Published: June 2010

In Peru, despite a strong clinical research infrastructure in Lima, and Masters degree programs in epidemiology at three universities, few neurologists participate in clinical research. It was our objective to identify perceived needs and opportunities for increasing clinical research capacity and training opportunities for Peruvian neurologists. We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional survey of Peruvian neurologists in Lima and Arequipa, Peru. Forty-eight neurologists completed written surveys and oral interviews. All neurologists reported interest in clinical research, but noted that lack of time and financial resources limited their ability to participate. Although most neurologists had received some training in epidemiology and research design as medical students or residents, the majority felt these topics were not adequately covered. Neurologists in Arequipa noted international funding for clinical research was uncommon outside the capital city of Lima. We concluded that clinical research is important to Peruvian neurologists. The three main barriers to increased participation in clinical research identified by neurologists were insufficient training in clinical research methodology, meager funding opportunities, and lack of dedicated time to participate in clinical research. Distance learning holds promise as a method for providing additional training in clinical research methodology, especially for neurologists who may have difficulty traveling to larger cities for additional training.
Neonatal Mortality: A Scenario in a Tertiary Level Hospital of a Developing Country
Authors: Mamunur Rashid A.K.M. , Habibur Rasul C.H. , Hafiz S. Mahbub
Published: June 2010

This study was designed to observe the overall neonatal mortality and pattern of neonatal death in a developing country. The factors related to neonatal mortality are also analyzed. This retrospective study was carried out in all pediatric patients in a tertiary level hospital of a developing country in the year 2008. Total neonatal (0-28 days) and non-neonatal (after 28 days-12 years) admissions and death records were analyzed. There were a total of 3,194 admissions in the year 2008. Neonatal and non-neonatal admissions numbered 942 and 2,252, respectively. There were a total of 146 (15.5%) neonatal deaths among neonatal admissions and 114 (5.06%) non-neonatal deaths among non-neonatal admissions. There were 87 (59.59%) preterm related deaths and 98 (67.12%) deaths due to Low Birth Weight (LBW). There were 102 (70%) deaths among neonates who had no antenatal follow-up. Mother’s age was under 20 years in 80 (55%) cases of neonatal death. The number of neonatal deaths is high in developing countries. Preterm with Low Birth Weight (LBW) is the major cause of mortality. Regular antenatal care and social discouragement of early marriage can greatly reduce neonatal death. Skilled and trained nursing care is necessary for the survival of the preterm and Low Birth Weight (LBW) baby in the hospitals of developing countries.
Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma in a 25-year-old male
Authors: Mansfield Aaron , Larson Brenda , Stafford Scott L , Shives Thomas C , Haddock Michael G , Dingli David
Published: June 2010

Angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is a rare disease that is often misdiagnosed initially. Patients can present with a clinical picture concerning for other diseases, and pathologic review is not always revealing. Molecular diagnostics are increasingly being utilized to detect gene fusions characteristic for AFH. Surgery remains the mainstay of management, and can effectively control local recurrences and metastases. Herein we describe a case report of a 25-year-old gentleman whose presentation was concerning for lymphoma. Subsequently we review of the relevant literature.
An epidural neuroblastoma causing spinal cord compression in a 67-year-old woman
Authors: Jost Gregory , Frank Stephan , Fischer Nathalie , Taub Ethan , Mariani Luigi
Published: June 2010

We report a case of disseminated neuroblastoma (NB) causing epidural spinal cord compression in a 67-year-old woman. Because NB is primarily a tumor of infancy and childhood, less is known about its clinical course and optimal treatment in adults. This patient was treated with a thoracic laminectomy and tumor resection; polychemotherapy with one cycle of vindesine, cisplatin, and etoposide; one cycle of vincristine, dacarbazine, ifosfamide, and doxorubicin; and radiotherapy to the spine. She remained able to walk but died 8.5 months later of diffuse systemic tumor progression.
The Effectiveness of Distance Interventions for Increasing Physical Activity: A Review
Authors: Jenkins Affrica , Christensen Helen , Walker Janine G. , Dear Keith
Published: June 2010

Objective.

Evaluate the effectiveness of distance physical activity interventions to establish intervention features that are key to success.

Data Source.

Computerized searches for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of distance physical activity interventions and visual scans of reference lists were performed between March 2004 and July 2006.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

Studies were included if they (1) employed a randomized controlled design, (2) encouraged physical activity in adults, and (3) had no face-to-face contact between participants and researchers or health educators.

Data Extraction.

Twenty-two studies were found that met the inclusion criteria. Authors assessed the quality of the studies and coded articles according to key intervention features.

Data Synthesis.

This review is a systematic narrative review. Heterogeneity and poor study quality made formal meta-analysis inappropriate. Nevertheless, effect sizes were calculated for studies comparing intervention with control.

Results.

Overall, distance interventions increased physical activity in the short term (between-group effect size range, −.2 to .45). Print medium plus telephone contact was the most effective delivery mode.

Conclusions.

Poor study quality prevented firm conclusions. However, distance interventions were found to promote physical activity in the short term for some populations. This review provided limited support for the efficacy of distance exercise interventions and revealed limitations of the extant literature. Expansion of RCT research into distance approaches to promoting physical activity is warranted.
Emission and deposition of accumulation and coarse mode particles in the Amazon basin
Authors: Ahlm L. , Krejci R. , Nilsson E. D. , Mårtensson E. M. , Vogt M. , Artaxo P.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Size-resolved vertical aerosol number fluxes of particles in the diameter range 0.25–2.5 μm were measured with the eddy covariance method from a 53 m high tower over the Amazon rain forest, 60 km NNW of Manaus, Brazil. This study focuses on data measured during the relatively clean wet season, but a shorter measurement period from the more polluted dry season is used as a comparison. Size-resolved net particle fluxes of the five lowest size bins, representing 0.25–0.45 μm in diameter, pointed downward in more or less all wind sectors in the wet season. This is an indication that the source of primary biogenic aerosol particles may be small in this particle size range. In the diameter range 0.5–2.5 μm, vertical particle fluxes were highly dependent on wind direction. In wind sectors where anthropogenic influence was low, net emission fluxes dominated. However, in wind sectors associated with higher anthropogenic influence, net deposition fluxes dominated. The net emission fluxes were interpreted as primary biogenic aerosol emission, but deposition of anthropogenic particles seems to have masked this emission in wind sectors with higher anthropogenic influence. The emission fluxes were at maximum in the afternoon when the mixed layer is well developed, and these emissions were best correlated with horizontal wind speed by the equation log10F=0.47·U+2.26 where F is the emission number flux of 0.5–2.5 μm particles [m−2s−1] and U is the horizontal wind speed [ms−1] at the top of the tower.
Seasonal variability of aerosol optical properties observed by means of an elastic-Raman lidar over Northeastern Spain
Authors: Sicard M. , Reba M. N. M. , Rocadenbosch F. , Comerón A. , Tomás S. , García-Vízcaino D. , Batet O. , Barrios R. , Kumar D.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The annual and seasonal variability of aerosol optical properties observed by means of an elastic-Raman lidar over Northeastern Spain has been assessed. The lidar representativeness has first been checked against sun-photometer measurements in terms of aerosol optical thickness. Then the annual cycle and the seasonal variability of the planetary boundary layer aerosol optical thickness and its fraction compared to the columnar optical thickness, the lidar ratio, the backscatter-related Ångström exponent and the planetary boundary layer height have been analyzed and discussed. Winter and summer mean profiles of extinction, backscatter and lidar ratio retrieved with the Raman algorithm have been presented. The analysis shows the impact of most of the natural events (Saharan dust intrusions, wildfires, etc.) and meteorological situations (summer anticyclonic situation, the formation of the Iberian thermal low, winter long-range transport from North Europe and/or North America, re-circulation flows, etc.) occurring in the Barcelona area. A detail study of a special event including a combined intrusion of Saharan dust and biomass-burning particles has proven the suitability of combining nighttime Raman- and daytime pure elastic-inversions to discriminate spatially different types of aerosols and to follow their spatial and temporal evolution.
Microwave scattering from ice crystals: how much parameters can differ from equal volume spheres
Authors: Teschl F. , Randeu W. L. , Teschl R.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The scattering properties of ice crystals at centimeter and millimeter wavelengths are fundamental for their measurement with radars or radiometers as well as for many other applications in remote sensing. Only the scattering properties of homogeneous spheres can be computed in a mathematically exact way using the Mie theory. Therefore, for many approaches ice crystals and other frozen hydrometeors are approximated by ice spheres that have the same volume as the crystal or hydrometeor – so called equal volume spheres. However, many frozen hydrometeors are non-spherical. They exist in a huge variety of shapes and exhibit different mixtures of ice, water and air. Therefore it is desirable to accurately compute scattering from non-spherical particles in order to clearly understand the effect the shape of a hydrometeor has on its scattering pattern. In this study, single scattering parameters like scattering cross section (Csca) and absorption cross section (Cabs) were calculated for six pristine ice crystals by means of the Discrete Dipole Approximation (DDA). The calculations were carried out for frequencies from 1 GHz to 300 GHz – leading to size parameters of up to 4. The study calculates the scattering parameters for randomly oriented ice crystals and investigates to what extent the exact scattering parameters can differ from an approximation by equal volume spheres.
Evaluating the improvements of the BOLAM model of the ISPRA Sistema Idro-Meteo-Mare on the December 2008 flood event in Rome
Authors: Casaioli M. , Lastoria B. , Mariani S. , Bussettini M.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. The Sistema Idro-Meteo-Mare is an integrated meteo-marine forecasting chain for the Mediterranean basin. The recent update of the meteorological segment, based on the hydrostatic BOlogna Limited Area Model (BOLAM), gives the opportunity for a comparative verification study on a Mediterranean cyclone. The 10–12 December 2008 flood event in Rome has been chosen as case study. This disastrous event was claimed to be an extreme one by mass-media; however, its return time is shown here to be about 5 years. The Mediterranean cyclone responsible for the flood offers a tough case study in order to verify the model's ability in reproducing the evolution of meso-synoptic features in the Mediterranean environment. A qualitative comparison, employing satellite data and derived products, is performed. Results suggest that the upgraded model provides a more realistic representation of the cyclone warm sector – where the main rainfall peak took place – whereas the error in the cyclone trajectory and shape evolution is less affected by the BOLAM improvement.