bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lifestyle factors and varicose veins: does cross-sectional design result in underestimate of the risk?
Authors: Ahti T M , Mäkivaara L A , Luukkaala T , Hakama M , Laurikka J O
Published: July 2010

Objectives

To assess whether smoking, alcohol drinking and dietary factors are linked with varicose veins.

Methods

A middle-aged general population of 4903 was studied, and prevalence rates at entry and five-year incidence of varicose veins were assessed. Lifestyle habits were recorded at entry and at the end of the follow-up.

Results

New varicose veins were significantly more common in individuals with regular alcohol intake, incidence odds ratio (OR) 1.5 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05–2.3) in a multivariate analysis (of 2202 individuals). The association was particularly strong in women. Smokers had a higher incidence of varicose veins compared with non-smokers, OR 1.3 (95% CI: 0.9–1.8), but without statistical significance. Having daily meals of meat implied less new varicose veins than having 0–2 weekly meals of meat.

Conclusion

Alcohol was likely to increase the risk of varicose veins in women and smoking in both genders. These findings were seen in the follow-up design, but not when the data of these risk factors were compared with varicose veins prevalent at entry.
Deep venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolization as a rare complication of diagnostic femoral catheterization and prevention of recurrence with inferior vena cava filter prior to cardiac surgery
Authors: Ardal H , Yilmaz O , Arbatli H , Kuzucu K , Sönmez B
Published: July 2010

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) are rare complications after diagnostic femoral catheterization. A few clinical cases have been reported, especially in the setting of venous compression with an enlarging haematoma, mechanical groin compression or prolonged procedures. Similarly, clinically evident PE after cardiac surgery is also very rare, but may be catastrophic. In this article, we present a case of PE after silent (symptomless) DVT due to femoral catheterization. The patient had critical coronary artery disease and was a candidate of coronary artery bypass grafting. A inferior vena cava filter was implanted prior to cardiac surgery for prevention of a potential pulmonary embolus.
Comparison of stiffness and interface pressure during rest and exercise among various arm sleeves
Authors: Hirai M , Niimi K , Iwata H , Sugimoto I , Ishibashi H , Ota T , Nakamura H
Published: July 2010

Objectives

To compare the interface pressure during rest and exercise among various kinds of arm sleeves.

Methods

The interface pressure underneath nine different arm sleeves was measured during 10 maximal opening and closing movements of fingers using a pressure transducer (Air Pack Type Analyser) in 16 healthy volunteers. Furthermore, in order to evaluate the characteristics of each arm sleeve, the extensibility, stiffness and thickness were determined in vitro by several apparatuses.

Results

There was a significant correlation between stiffness and extensibility. The stiffness was significantly correlated with the pressure difference between muscle contraction and relaxation during exercise. The higher the value of stiffness, the greater the pressure amplitude during exercise.

Conclusion

Short-stretch arm sleeves characterized with a high level stiffness, including thick round- and flat-knitted arm sleeves, are more beneficial for the augmentation of muscle pumping than long-stretch arm sleeves, in the same way as short-stretch bandages or stockings applied to the leg.
Upsetting others and provoking ridicule: Children's reasoning about the self‐presentational consequences of rule violation
Authors: Banerjee Robin. , Bennett Mark. , Luke Nikki.
Published: July 2010

This study examined children's understanding of the distinctive ‘self‐presentational’ impacts of moral and social‐conventional rule violations. A sample of 80 children aged 7–8 and 9–10 years generated examples of interpersonal events that would upset others and events that would elicit social attention to the self. As expected, both age groups consistently identified moral violations as leading to the former, and deviations from social norms as leading to the latter. Crucially, when children were asked to identify the social‐evaluative consequences of those breaches, they exhibited a significant increase with age in recognizing the self‐presentational risks of social‐conventional deviations.
Fatigue Initiation Modeling of 316LN Steel Based on Nonlocal Plasticity Theory
Authors: Schwartz Julien , Fandeur Olivier , Rey Colette
Published: July 2010

Nucleation of intragranular cracks during low cycle fatigue is governed by various micro-structural phenomena. Complex dislocation arrangements and rearrangements have been identified in several experimental studies carried out on cyclically loaded steel specimens. Different dislocation structures, such as vein, ladder, and/or cell structures, have been observed. They are related to an inhomogeneous localization of plastic strain, which is mostly accommodated by the ladder structures of dislocations, also named persistent slip bands. These regions of intensive slip generate on the material surface intrusions and extrusions, called persistent slip markings. The emergence of this rough relief leads to the initiation of fatigue cracks and can be considered as the first sign of fatigue damage. For a better comprehension of crack nucleation in 316LN stainless steel, low cycle fatigue tests and numerical simulations were performed. Specimens of 316LN steel with polished shallow notches were cycled with constant loading amplitude. In situ observations with a long distance microscope and scanning electron microscopy and electron back scattered diffraction analyses were used to observe fatigue crack initiation. Persistent slip markings have been identified. In parallel, a three-dimensional finite element model of crystalline plasticity, named Cristal-ECP, has been developed in both ABAQUS™ and CAST3M™ finite element codes. The numerical studies performed on various polycrystalline aggregates of 316LN steel have shown a heterogeneous localization of strain in bands. For a more precise computation and to introduce a grain size effect, geometrically necessary dislocations directly related and computed with the lattice curvature have been introduced in Cristal-ECP. The first simulations have shown a real influence of the geometrically necessary dislocations on the hardening slope and more heterogeneous mechanical fields.
Association of serum IGF1 with endothelial function: results from the population-based study of health in Pomerania
Authors: Empen Klaus , Lorbeer Roberto , Völzke Henry , Robinson Daniel M , Friedrich Nele , Krebs Alexander , Nauck Matthias , Reffelmann Thorsten , Ewert Ralf , Felix Stephan B , Wallaschofski Henri , Dörr Marcus
Published: July 2010

Objective

IGF1 mediates multiple physiological and pathophysiological responses in the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between serum IGF1 as well as IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) levels and endothelial function measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD).

Design

Cross-sectional population-based observational study.

Methods

The study population comprised 1482 subjects (736 women) aged 25–85 years from the Study of Health in Pomerania. Serum IGF1 and IGFBP3 levels were determined by chemiluminescence immunoassays. FMD measurements were performed using standardized ultrasound techniques. FMD values below the sex-specific median were considered low.

Results

In males, logistic regression analyses revealed an odds ratio (OR) of 1.27 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.07–1.51;P=0.008) for decreased FMD for each decrement of IGF1s.d.after adjustment for major cardiovascular confounders. In females, no significant relationship between serum IGF1 and FMD was found (OR 0.88, CI 0.74–1.05;P=0.147). After exclusion of subjects with the current use of antihypertensive medication, these findings were similar (males: OR 1.40, CI 1.12–1.75;P=0.003; females: OR 0.95, CI 0.77–1.16;P=0.595). There was no association between serum IGFBP3 levels and FMD in both sexes.

Conclusions

Low serum IGF1 levels are associated with impaired endothelial function in males. In women, serum IGF1 is not associated with endothelial function.
Evaluation of Renal Drug Dosing: Prescribing Information and Clinical Pharmacist Approaches
Authors: Dowling Thomas C. , Matzke Gary R. , Murphy John E. , Burckart Gilbert J.
Published: July 2010

Study Objective. To characterize renal function parameters reported in United States Food and Drug Administration‐approved prescribing information (package inserts), to compare dosage recommendations for patients with impaired renal function between prescribing information and tertiary drug dosing references, and to evaluate renal function quantification methods most commonly used by clinical pharmacists to develop dosage regimens.

Design. Retrospective analysis and Web‐based survey.

Data Sources. Prescribing information for all new molecular entities (NMEs) approved from 1998–2007 in which dosing recommendations were proposed for patients with impaired renal function, drug monographs from four tertiary drug dosing references (Micromedex, Lexi‐Comp, Epocrates Rx, and American Hospital Formulary Service [AHFS] Drug Information) for all identified NMEs, and a Web‐based survey of 204 nephrology and critical care pharmacy practitioners.

Measurements and Main Results. A total of 44 NMEs included renal dosing recommendations in their prescribing information. For all 44 NMEs, prescribing information was reviewed to determine methods to quantify renal function, units of measure reported, and use of chronic kidney disease terminology. The most common index of renal function was creatinine clearance; the Cockcroft‐Gault equation was specified in the prescribing information of 11 NMEs. Standardization for body weight was inconsistent, with prescribing information for four NMEs reporting renal function in ml/minute/1.73 m2. The prescribing information or tertiary sources did not mention use of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (MDRD) equation. Epocrates Rx provided the most abbreviated renal dosing information, whereas AHFS Drug Information was the most comprehensive, and Lexi‐Comp includes a renal function calculator. Nearly all (86%) clinical pharmacists indicated that automated eGFR is reported at their institutions, although they do not use these predictions for dosing in patients with impaired renal function, and their approaches to renal function estimation varied widely.

Conclusion. Reporting of renal function methods and dosing recommendations for patients with impaired renal function requires standardization in order to ensure optimal dosing. Pharmacy clinicians do not substitute eGFR in place of creatinine clearance for renal dosing, which is consistent with current prescribing information. Studies are needed that will evaluate the validity of using eGFR to predict drug clearance and thereby generate dosage recommendations.
Echinacea purpurea Significantly Induces Cytochrome P450 3A Activity but Does Not Alter Lopinavir‐Ritonavir Exposure in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Penzak Scott R. , Robertson Sarah M. , Hunt Jennifer D. , Chairez Cheryl , Malati Christine Y. , Alfaro Raul M. , Stevenson James M. , Kovacs Joseph A.
Published: July 2010

Study Objective. To determine the influence of Echinacea purpurea on the pharmacokinetics of lopinavir‐ritonavir and on cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A and P‐glycoprotein activity by using the probe substrates midazolam and fexofenadine, respectively.

Design. Open‐label, single‐sequence pharmacokinetic study.

Setting. Outpatient clinic in a federal government research center.

Subjects. Thirteen healthy volunteers (eight men, five women).

Intervention. Subjects received lopinavir 400 mg‐ritonavir 100 mg twice/day with meals for 29.5 days. On day 16, subjects received E. purpurea 500 mg 3 times/day for 28 days: 14 days in combination with lopinavir‐ritonavir and 14 days ofE. purpureaalone. In order to assess CYP3A and P‐glycoprotein activity, subjects received single oral doses of midazolam 8mg and fexofenadine 120 mg, respectively, before and after the 28 days of E. purpurea.

Measurements and Main Results. On days 15 and 30 of lopinavir‐ritonavir administration (before and after E. purpurea administration, respectively), serial blood samples were collected over 12 hours to determine lopinavir and ritonavir concentrations and subsequent pharmacokinetic parameters by using noncompartmental methods. Neither lopinavir nor ritonavir pharmacokinetics were significantly altered by 14 days of E. purpurea coadministration. The post‐echinacea:pre‐echinacea geometric mean ratios (GMRs) for lopinavir area under the concentration‐time curve (AUC) from 0–12 hours and for maximum concentration were 0.96 (90% confidence interval [CI] 0.83–1.10, p=0.82) and 1.00 (90% CI 0.88–1.12, p=0.72), respectively. Conversely, GMRs for midazolam AUC from time zero extrapolated to infinity and oral clearance were 0.73 (90% CI 0.61–0.85, p=0.008) and 1.37 (90% CI 1.10–1.63, p=0.02), respectively. Fexofenadine pharmacokinetics did not significantly differ before and after E. purpurea administration (p>0.05).

Conclusion. Echinacea purpureainduced CYP3A activity but did not alter lopinavir concentrations, most likely duetothe presenceofthe potent CYP3A inhibitor, ritonavir. Echinacea purpureais unlikely to alter the pharmacokinetics of ritonavir‐boosted protease inhibitors but may cause modest decreases in plasma concentrations of other CYP3A substrates.
Serum Alanine Aminotransferase Elevation During 10 Days of Acetaminophen Use in Nondrinkers
Authors: Heard Kennon J. , Green Jody L. , Dart Richard C.
Published: July 2010

Study Objective. To describe the changes in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in nondrinkers receiving acetaminophen for 10 days.

Design. Prospective, open‐label study.

Setting. Outpatient clinical research center.

Patients. Twenty‐four healthy volunteers who reported an average alcohol consumption of less than one drink/day for the 30 days preceding study enrollment.

Intervention. Patients were administered acetaminophen 4 g/day for 10 days (study days 1–10).

Measurements and Main Results. Serum ALT level, total bilirubin level, and international normalized ratio (INR) were measured on study days 0, 4, 7, 9, 11, and 14. Median ALT level increased from 24 U/L on day 0 to 39 U/L on day 7, and remained elevated through day 11 (39 U/L); these increases were statistically significant (p=0.0002). Median ALT level began to trend down by day 14 (35 U/L). Fourteen subjects (58%) had ALT levels above the upper limit of normal; the largest elevation was 3.8 times the upper limit of normal (day 7). No increases in INR or total bilirubin level were noted during the study, and no subject developed symptoms of liver injury (e.g., abdominal pain, jaundice).

Conclusion. Daily use of acetaminophen at the maximum dose of 4 g/day for 10 days caused asymptomatic ALT level elevations in subjects who do not consume alcohol. The clinical implication of these elevations remains unclear. Future studies should evaluate ALT changes and their clinical effects when acetaminophen is given for long periods of time.
Studies of Precious Metal Catalysts in the CARMAC Programme
Authors: Burch Robbie , Gladden Lynn , Golunski Stan
Published: July 2010

One of the recurrent challenges in catalysis is how to ensure that the right reactions take place. In a recent collaborative programme between academic and industrial partners, some of the key issues relating to reactant specificity and product selectivity in liquid and gas media have been tackled using a combination of computational modelling, catalyst chemistry and chemical engineering. As well as providing solutions to several real-life problems from the chemical manufacturing industry, essential skills required for in situ studies have been established within the academic centres during the course of the programme. These developing skills are intended to have an ongoing impact on the understanding and application of complex multiphase processes, in which platinum group metals and other precious metals are often present as catalysts.
Platinum Group Metals in Glass Making
Authors: Couderc Christophe
Published: July 2010

The platinum group metals (pgms) are characterised by their high melting points and resistance to corrosion. The glass industry most commonly uses platinum, platinum-rhodium alloys and, recently, iridium. These protect a variety of components and ceramic substrates used in glass manufacture from erosion by molten glass, including thermocouples, furnace and forehearth parts. This protection takes the form of a fabricated part or a coating applied to a substrate. Glass manufacturers use these pgm products to get financial benefits, such as increased output, reduced downtime, extended equipment life, shape retention of ceramic parts and fewer defects in the end product. Another important advantage is that pgms are recyclable: as with glass, precious metals can be recycled, melted and reused indefinitely. In addition to these advantages, a choice of pgm-based technologies is available to the industry and this flexibility ensures that both protection and metal use can be optimised.
Factors Related to Health Practices: Cervical Cancer Screening Among Filipino Women
Authors: Ayres Cynthia G. , Atkins Robert , Lee Ji H.
Published: July 2010

This correlational study developed and tested theory to better understand health practices, including cervical cancer screening, among young Filipino women. It tested theoretical relationships postulated among (a) positive health practices, (b) cervical cancer screening, (c) social support, (d) acculturation, and (e) optimism. A convenience sample of 89 young Filipino women in an urban setting was obtained. Participants completed a demographic sheet and five instruments. Significant positive correlations were found between PHP and social support (r = .169, p <.05) and previous cervical cancer screening behavior (r = .285, p <.01) and cervical cancer screening frequency (r = .33, p <.01). Social support was not significantly related to cervical cancer screening. Previous cervical cancer screening behavior was significantly related to optimism (r = .285, p <.01) and screening frequency (r = .924, p <.01). Optimism was significantly related to positive health practices (r = .209, p <.05) and cervical cancer screening knowledge (r = .224, p <.05) but not significantly related to previous cervical cancer screening behavior or screening frequency. Findings contribute to a more comprehensive knowledge base regarding positive health practices, including cervical cancer screenings, among young Filipino women.
If Psychology Refuses to Police Itself, Then It May Be the Courts That Force an Overhaul of Clinical Psychology
Authors: Stein David B. , Foltz Robert
Published: July 2010

From its inception, psychology has sought recognition as a science, but, unfortunately, this is not happening, especially in the clinical arena. It is all too often referred to as “junk science.” Eloquent arguments are constantly made defending psychology as different because it is dealing with unknowns, such as the mind and the soul. However, the fact remains that psychology is not progressing well, with extremely poor treatment efficacy rates and with its tenacious clinging to psychological tests that are repeatedly shown to be unreliable and invalid. Thus, psychology is not policing itself. However, change and reformation may be forced on it because the federal courts and 33 state courts have based new laws for more rigorous standards for trial testimony, and it appears that the new laws are aimed at cleansing the courts of “junk science,” namely, psychological testimony. This article reviews the changes that thus far few psychologists, lawyers, or even judges know about. However, slowly the new laws will permeate the courts and perhaps exert a strong influence for psychology to adapt.
Associations Between Matrix Metalloproteinase‐8 and ‐14 and Myeloperoxidase in Gingival Crevicular Fluid From Subjects With Progressive Chronic Periodontitis: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hernández M. , Gamonal J. , Tervahartiala T. , Mäntylä P. , Rivera O. , Dezerega A. , Dutzan N. , Sorsa T.
Published: July 2010

Background: Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8 is a central mediator in chronic periodontitis. MMP‐8 can be activated by the cooperative action of other MMPs such as MMP‐14, reactive oxygen species, and microbial proteases. The aim of this study is to associate the levels, molecular forms, isoenzyme distribution, and degree of activation of MMP‐8 and ‐14, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)‐1 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from patients with progressive periodontitis at baseline and after periodontal therapy.

Methods: In this longitudinal study, GCF samples from active (n = 25) and inactive (n = 25) sites of subjects with periodontitis were screened at baseline for GCF levels of MMP‐8 by immunofluorometric assay, of MMP‐14 by specific activity assay, and of MPO and TIMP‐1 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. MMP‐8 and MPO were also measured after periodontal treatment. Molecular forms were determined by immuno‐Western blot analyses and subjected to densitometric scanning and statistical analyses.

Results: High MMP‐8 and MPO levels and a strong MPO/MMP‐8 positive correlation were found in active and inactive sites at baseline. After treatment, decreases in MPO and MMP‐8 were seen, except for active sites in which MMP‐8 differences were not significant (P <0.05).

Conclusions: We present initial data that show that GCF levels and associations between MPO and MMP‐8 are related to progression episodes and treatment responses in patients with chronic periodontitis. Our results suggest an interaction between the MPO oxidative pathway and MMP‐8 activation, and this cascade might be useful as a potential biomarker for treatment outcomes.
Histologic Analysis of Healing After Tooth Extraction With Ridge Preservation Using Mineralized Human Bone Allograft
Authors: Beck Tina M. , Mealey Brian L.
Published: July 2010

Background: Ridge preservation was developed as a therapy to prevent severe bone resorption after tooth extraction. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is any difference in the amount of new bone formation ≈3 months after extraction and ridge preservation compared to that after ≈6 months.

Methods: Minimally traumatic extraction with ridge preservation using mineralized human bone allograft was performed at 38 single‐rooted tooth sites in 33 subjects. Sixteen sites healed for an average of 14 weeks (early healing), whereas 22 sites were allowed to heal for an average of 27 weeks (delayed healing) before harvesting bone core samples. Histomorphometric analysis was performed to determine the percent of new bone formation, residual graft particles, and connective tissue/non‐mineralized structures for each site.

Results: All specimens showed evidence of new bone formation, with most of the residual graft particles surrounded intimately by woven bone. No statistically significant differences in the amount of newly formed bone or residual graft particles were found between the two groups. Overall, the early healing group demonstrated a mean of 45.8% new bone, 14.6% residual graft material, and 39.6% connective tissue/non‐mineralized tissue. The delayed healing group showed mean values of 45%, 13.5%, and 41.3%, respectively.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that waiting ≈6 months after tooth extraction and ridge preservation using mineralized bone allograft does not provide a greater amount of new bone formation or less residual bone particles compared to that after only ≈3 months.
Risk Assessment of Lingual Plate Perforation in Posterior Mandibular Region: A Virtual Implant Placement Study Using Cone‐Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Chan Hsun‐Liang , Benavides Erika , Yeh Chu‐Yuan , Fu Jia‐Hui , Rudek Ivan E. , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: July 2010

Background: Lingual plate perforation at the time of implant placement in posterior mandible is a potential surgical complication, and presence of a lingual concavity is considered a risk factor. Little is known about the spatial relationship between implant and lingual plate. The role of lingual concavity in the risk of lingual perforation has not yet been fully studied. This computer‐simulated study investigates the incidence of lingual plate perforation in edentulous mandibular first molar region and the risk of perforation in the area of lingual concavity.

Methods: One hundred and three qualified cone‐beam computed tomography scans were selected from the database. Implants of various dimensions were virtually placed into the area using computer software. The distance between implant tip and lingual plate was measured using a digital caliper. Incidence of lingual plate perforation and proximity of the implant tip to lingual plate were measured for three types of cross‐sectional mandibular morphology.

Results: One hundred and three cone‐beam computed tomography scans with 118 sites were available for analysis. The intraexaminer and interexaminer agreements were 0.93 and 0.89, respectively. The predicted incidence of lingual plate perforation was 1.1% to 1.2%. Most implants, which were within 1 mm from lingual plate, occurred in sites with lingual concavity (type‐U ridge).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates a novel experimental design by which the spatial relation between implant and lingual plate in mandibular first molar region is investigated. Incidence of lingual plate perforation during implant placement is predicted to be 1.1% to 1.2% and it will most likely happen in type‐U ridge.
Generation Investment and Risks Modeling in a Deregulated Electricity Market
Authors: Limbu Tika Ram , Saha Tapan K , McDonald John D. F.
Published: July 2010

A new probabilistic model to simulate generation investment and risks applicable in a deregulated market is proposed. In this process, probabilistic production cost simulation is applied to simulate energy dispatches. Electricity prices are simulated from a modified Black-Scholes-Merton (BSM) based price simulation model. In this work, the existing BSM model is enhanced thus making it possible to simulate the demand and supply conditions in price determination. A complete investment analysis model is then developed by integrating the above two simulation processes. Using this model, generator investors can analyze the impacts on the anticipated revenue due to different plant efficiency, availabilities, bilateral contract markets and changes in demand and supply conditions. Simulated results show that the proposed model is able to analyse the viability in generation investment with much simplicity.
Standing Phase Angle Reduction Based on a Wide Area Monitoring System Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Nourizadeh Saber , Ranjbar Ali Mohammad , Pishvaie Mahmoud R. , Sadeghi Morteza
Published: July 2010

During power system restoration, it is necessary to check the phase angle between two buses before closing circuit breakers to connect a line between them. A novel approach for reducing large standing phase angle (SPA) based on Genetic Algorithm (GA) is presented in this paper. The proposed approach starts with a state estimation on Wide Area Monitoring System (WAMS) data measurements and considering power system operation and angular stability constraints, seeks an optimal control action scenario for reducing SPA. Since these constraints are evaluated based on WAMS data, the presented approach is considerably high speed and accurate. As an optimization problem, objective function of the proposed approach is to minimize variation from the current state of the power system. Simulation results on the IEEE 118 bus test system clearly show efficiency of the approach.
Is SARS a Poor Man's Disease? Socioeconomic Status and Risk Factors for SARS Transmission
Authors: Bucchianeri Grace Wong
Published: July 2010

This paper investigates the link between various risk factors, including socioeconomic status (SES), and the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in Hong Kong in 2003. A comprehensive data set compiled by the author shows a negative and significant correlation between SARS incidence and various measures of income, but not years of education, unlike previous studies on other health conditions. The income-SARS gradient can be accounted for by controlling for pre-SARS housing values but not an array of measurable living conditions. Areas with more white-collar workers experienced a higher incidence rate, largely driven by the share of service and sales workers, after controlling for SES. These results have implications for the understanding of the SES-health link in the context of a contagious disease, the potential causality of the SES-SARS relationship and for future SARS containment strategies.
CFD Simulation of Wall Effects in Flow Past a Square Cylinder in a Stationary and Moving Plane Channel
Authors: A Venu Vinod , Y Sravani Gowri Laxmi
Published: July 2010

A numerical study on the steady state flow of an incompressible Newtonian fluid past a square cylinder confined in a rectangular channel by two plates has been carried out using CFX 10.0. Computations were carried out for two different boundary conditions of moving and stationary plates for a Reynolds number range between 0.1 to 200 and a blockage ratio ? in the range 0.0125 to 0.65. The flow parameters such as drag coefficient, length of recirculation zone were determined. From the results obtained it was found that drag coefficient decreased with an increase in Re for a fixed value of ?. For a given value of ?, the length of recirculation increases as the Re increases. An expression has been developed for the relation between drag coefficient and ?.
Clinical and Experimental Pancreatic Islet Transplantation to Striated Muscle
Authors: Christoffersson Gustaf , Henriksnäs Johanna , Johansson Lars , Rolny Charlotte , Ahlström Håkan , Caballero-Corbalan José , Segersvärd Ralf , Permert Johan , Korsgren Olle , Carlsson Per-Ola , Phillipson Mia
Published: July 2010

OBJECTIVE

Curing type 1 diabetes by transplanting pancreatic islets into the liver is associated with poor long-term outcome and graft failure at least partly due to inadequate graft revascularization. The aim of the current study was to evaluate striated muscle as a potential angiogenic site for islet transplantation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The current study presents a new experimental model that is found to be applicable to clinical islet transplantation. Islets were implanted into striated muscle and intraislet vascular density and blood flow were visualized with intravital and confocal microscopy in mice and by magnetic resonance imaging in three autotransplanted pancreatectomized patients. Mice were rendered neutropenic by repeated injections of Gr-1 antibody, and diabetes was induced by alloxan treatment.

RESULTS

Contrary to liver-engrafted islets, islets transplanted to mouse muscle were revascularized with vessel densities and blood flow entirely comparable with those of islets within intact pancreas. Initiation of islet revascularization at the muscular site was dependent on neutrophils, and the function of islets transplanted to muscle was proven by curing diabetic mice. The experimental data were confirmed in autotransplanted patients where higher plasma volumes were measured in islets engrafted in forearm muscle compared with adjacent muscle tissue through high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents a novel paradigm in islet transplantation whereby recruited neutrophils are crucial for the functionally restored intraislet blood perfusion following transplantation to striated muscle under experimental and clinical situations.
Nd:YAG laser welding of titanium alloys using a directed gas jet
Authors: Blackburn Jonathan , Allen Chris , Hilton Paul , Li Lin
Published: July 2010

The increasing utilization of titanium alloys in the aerospace industry, a direct result of socioeconomic pressures, has created the need for a production process which can produce high quality near-net-shape titanium alloy components. Keyhole laser welding is a joining technology which could be utilized for this requirement. In general, when laser welding titanium alloys, a jet of inert gas, directed at the region of the laser beam/material interaction point is utilized to achieve the weld quality required. A statistical study has been performed in order to determine the optimum position and flow rate of this directed gas jet, with respect to reducing the weld metal porosity and optimizing the weld profile, for autogeneous Nd:YAG laser welding of 3.25 mm thickness Ti-2.5Cu and Ti-6Al-4V. As a result, butt welds have been reproducibly made with a quality that exceeds the most stringent aerospace weld quality criteria. High speed imaging and spectroscopic analysis of the welding process have revealed that, when correctly set-up, the directed inert gas jet disperses the formation of excited metal vapor above the keyhole and also significantly changes the hydrodynamic behavior of the weld pool.
Studies on characteristics of CO2 laser-GTAW hybrid welding of austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Kaul Rakesh , Kumar Harish , Rao B. T. , Kukreja L. M. , Singh Nageshwar , Vora H. S.
Published: July 2010

The present paper describes an experimental hybrid welding study, involving CO2 laser and gas tungsten arc welding, on 6 mm thick austenitic stainless steel sheet. The study focused on real-time plasma monitoring during welding and metallographic examination of the resultant weldments. Coupling of laser-generated plasma and gas tungsten arc was achieved by introducing argon cross jet. The results of the study demonstrated that for obtaining deep hybrid welds, incident laser power density should be above a threshold to generate metal plasma on its own. An increase in arc current with laser power density below the threshold value resulted in broader conduction-limited welds without causing much change in the weld depth. Coupling of arc with laser also served to stabilize and enhance metal plasma formation, which, in turn, facilitated stabilization of the resultant welding process. Best hybrid welds were achieved when arc followed laser beam along the direction of welding.
Paraquaternionic CR-submanifolds of paraquaternionic Kähler manifolds and semi-Riemannian submersions
Authors: Ianuş Stere , Marchiafava Stefano , Vîlcu Gabriel
Published: July 2010

In this paper we introduce paraquaternionic CR-submanifolds of almost paraquaternionic hermitian manifolds and state some basic results on their differential geometry. We also study a class of semi-Riemannian submersions from paraquaternionic CR-submanifolds of paraquaternionic Kähler manifolds.
Mathematical programming via the least-squares method
Authors: Übi Evald
Published: July 2010

The least-squares method is used to obtain a stable algorithm for a system of linear inequalities as well as linear and nonlinear programming. For these problems the solution with minimal norm for a system of linear inequalities is found by solving the non-negative least-squares (NNLS) problem. Approximate and exact solutions of these problems are discussed. Attention is mainly paid to finding the initial solution to an LP problem. For this purpose an NNLS problem is formulated, enabling finding the initial solution to the primal or dual problem, which may turn out to be optimal. The presented methods are primarily suitable for ill-conditioned and degenerate problems, as well as for LP problems for which the initial solution is not known. The algorithms are illustrated using some test problems.
Cancer-Related Fatigue and Rehabilitation: A Randomized Controlled Multicenter Trial Comparing Physical Training Combined With Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy With Physical Training Only and With No Intervention
Authors: van Weert Ellen , May Anne M. , Korstjens Irene , Post Wendy J. , van der Schans Cees P. , van den Borne Bart , Mesters Ilse , Ros Wynand J.G. , Hoekstra-Weebers Josette E.H.M.
Published: July 2010

Background

Research suggests that cancer rehabilitation reduces fatigue in survivors of cancer. To date, it is unclear what type of rehabilitation is most beneficial.

Objective

This randomized controlled trial compared the effect on cancer-related fatigue of physical training combined with cognitive behavioral therapy with physical training alone and with no intervention.

Design

In this multicenter randomized controlled trial, 147 survivors of cancer were randomly assigned to a group that received physical training combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (PT+CBT group, n=76) or to a group that received physical training alone (PT group, n=71). In addition, a nonintervention control group (WLC group) consisting of 62 survivors of cancer who were on the waiting lists of rehabilitation centers elsewhere was included.

Setting

The study was conducted at 4 rehabilitation centers in the Netherlands.

Patients

All patients were survivors of cancer.

Intervention

Physical training consisting of 2 hours of individual training and group sports took place twice weekly, and cognitive-behavioral therapy took place once weekly for 2 hours.

Measurements

Fatigue was assessed with the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory before and immediately after intervention (12 weeks after enrollment). The WLC group completed questionnaires at the same time points.

Results

Baseline fatigue did not differ significantly among the 3 groups. Over time, levels of fatigue significantly decreased in all domains in all groups, except in mental fatigue in the WLC group. Analyses of variance of postintervention fatigue showed statistically significant group effects on general fatigue, on physical and mental fatigue, and on reduced activation but not on reduced motivation. Compared with the WLC group, the PT group reported significantly greater decline in 4 domains of fatigue, whereas the PT+CBT group reported significantly greater decline in physical fatigue only. No significant differences in decline in fatigue were found between the PT+CBT and PT groups.

Conclusions

Physical training combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy and physical training alone had significant and beneficial effects on fatigue compared with no intervention. Physical training was equally effective as or more effective than physical training combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy in reducing cancer-related fatigue, suggesting that cognitive-behavioral therapy did not have additional beneficial effects beyond the benefits of physical training.
Impact of International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial results on treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms in the United States
Authors: Qureshi Adnan I. , Vazquez Gabriela , Tariq Nauman , Suri M. Fareed K. , Lakshminarayan Kamakshi , Lanzino Giuseppe
Published: July 2010

Object

The utilization of endovascular treatment for ruptured intracranial aneurysms is expected to change since the publication of the International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT) in 2002. The authors performed this analysis to determine the impact of ISAT results on treatment selection for ruptured intracranial aneurysms and associated in-hospital outcomes using nationally representative data.

Methods

We determined the national estimates of treatments used for ruptured intracranial aneurysms and associated in-hospital outcomes, length of stay, mortality, and cost incurred using the Nationwide Inpatient Survey (NIS) data. The NIS is the largest all-payer inpatient care database in the US and contains data from 986 hospitals approximating a 20% stratified sample of US hospitals. All the variables pertaining to hospitalization were compared between 2000–2002 and 2004–2006, and in-hospital outcomes were analyzed using multivariate analysis.

Results

In the 3-year periods prior to and after the ISAT, there were 70,637 and 77,352 admissions for ruptured intracranial aneurysms, respectively. There was a significant increase in endovascular treatment after publication of the ISAT (trend test, p < 0.0001) The in-hospital mortality for ruptured intracranial aneurysm admissions decreased from 27% to 24% (odds ratio [OR] 0.89, 95% CI 0.83–0.96, p = 0.003) after the publication of the ISAT. The cost of hospitalization after adjusting for procedures practices was not significantly higher after the publication of the ISAT ($21,437 vs $22,817, p < 0.89), but cost of hospitalization was higher in the post-ISAT period for patients undergoing endovascular procedure.

Conclusions

The results of the ISAT have been associated with a prominent change in practice patterns related to the treatment of ruptured aneurysms. The cost of hospitalization has increased and the mortality has decreased, presumably due to a larger proportion of patients receiving any treatment and endovascular treatment.
A study on the Therapeutic Efficacy of Olopatadine Hydrochloride in the Management of Allergic Conjunctivitis
Authors: Chowdhury Md Abu Nayeem , Hossain AKM Mosharrof , Chowdhury MA Hashem , Chowdhury Shakhawat Hossain
Published: July 2010

A prospective interventional study was conducted to see the efficacy and safety of a ophthalmic preparation olopatadine hydrochloride (0.1%) on 40 allergic conjunctivitis patients attended the out-patient department of Ophthalmology, Sylhet M.A.G. Osmani Medical College Hospital. One drop of ophthalmic solution was administered 12 hourly in each eye for 2 weeks. Scoring of hyperaemia, itching, tearing, and photophobia were estimated before and 2 weeks after administration of the drug. After 30 min. & 2 weeks of administration of drug adverse effects were assessed if there was any. The mean scores of hyperaemia, tearing, itching and photophobia were reduced after 2 weeks of treatment. The scores of hyperaemia, itching, tearing, photophobia were found to be lower compared to Day 0. This change was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Olopatadine appeared to reduce ocular signs and symptoms in Allergic conjunctivitis . Key words: Olopatadine hydrochloride; Allergic conjunctivitis; Hyperaemia; Tearing; Itching; Photophobia. DOI: 10.3329/medtoday.v22i1.5599 Medicine Today Vol.22(1) 2010. 15-19
Port Site and Intraperitoneal Infiltration of Local Anesthetics in Reduction of Postoperative Pain after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Alam Mohammad Shaha , Hoque Hasnat Waheedul , Saifullah Mohammad , Ali Md Omar
Published: July 2010

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is now the gold standard technique for the treatment of gallstones disease. Although pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy is less intense than after open cholecystectomy, some patients still experience considerable discomfort during the first 24 to 72 postoperative hours. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of intraperitoneal and port site instillation of local anaesthetics on pain relief in early postoperative period following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Fifty patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were consecutively included in this study and sample was divided into two groups. Following removal of gallbladder, Group A received 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine instilled in the right sub diaphragmatic space and 20 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine in divided doses at the trocar sites. The evaluation of postoperative pain was done at fixed time interval according to the numerical verbal scale and the dosage of narcotic analgesics consumed was also recorded. Mean pain scores at 6 hours and at 12 hours after surgery were 6.02 and 4.72 respectively, in the bupivacaine group compared with 8.44 and 6.08 respectively in the control group (p= <0.001 and <0.001). However, pain scores at 24 hours and 48 hours postoperatively and incidence of shoulder tip pain did not differ significantly between the two groups. The mean total narcotic analgesics used in study group was 1.91 as compared to 2.50 in the control group respectively and was found to be statistically significant (p= <0.001). Infiltration of bupivacaine in to port site and intraperitoneal space is simple, inexpensive and effective technique to minimize early postoperative pain and can be practiced for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.   DOI: 10.3329/medtoday.v22i1.5601 Medicine Today Vol.22(1) 2010. 24-28
Impaction of Permanent Canine due to Retaining of Deciduous Teeth
Authors: Nessa Jebun , Akter Mahmuda , Hasan Md Kamrul
Published: July 2010

In our daily practices some of the dental problems are ignored but bears a signaficant role. People meet dentist until it becomes very serious and creating problem in our daily works. The case we are going to discuss that ignored at patients childhood but now its a burning issue for her. This case dealt at dental out patient depertment of Banghabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka. 24 years old female - Miss Ema Ghosh presented with discharging sinus through the space between upper right lateral incisor and 1st premolar due to infection of remaining root portion of deciduous canine for one month. Resulting from this retaining root portion of deciduous tooth the permanent canine became impacted. Key words: Impacted canine; BDR; OPG. DOI: 10.3329/medtoday.v22i1.5609 Medicine Today Vol.22(1) 2010. 53-54
Reactivity of Heteropolytungstate and Heteropolymolybdate Metal Transition Salts in the Synthesis of Dimethyl Carbonate from Methanol and CO2
Authors: Aouissi Ahmed , Al-Deyab Salem S. , Al-Owais Ahmad , Al-Amro Amro
Published: July 2010

A series of Keggin-type heteropoly compounds (HPC) having different countercations (Co, Fe) and different addenda atoms (W, Mo) were synthesized and characterized by means of Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FT-IR) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The catalytic properties of the prepared catalysts for the dimethyl carbonate (DMC) synthesis from CO2 and CH3OH were investigated. The experimental results showed that the catalytic activity is significantly influenced by the type of the countercation and addenda atoms transition metal. Among the catalysts examined, Co1.5PW12O40 is the most active for the DMC synthesis, owing to the synergetic effect between Co and W. Investigating the effect of the support showed that the least acidic one (Al2O3) enhanced the conversion but decreased the DMC selectivity in favor of that of methyl formate (MF), while that of dimethoxy methane remained stable.
An Amperometric Immunosensor Based on a Polyelectrolyte/ Gold Magnetic Nanoparticle Supramolecular Assembly—Modified Electrode for the Determination of HIV p24 in Serum
Authors: Gan Ning , Hou Jianguo , Hu Futao , Zheng Lei , Ni Minjun , Cao Yuting
Published: July 2010

Unmanaged sudden withdrawal from the excessive consumption of alcohol (ethanol) adversely alters neuronal integrity in vulnerable brain regions such as the cerebellum, hippocampus, or cortex. In addition to well known hyperexcitatory neurotransmissions, ethanol withdrawal (EW) provokes the intense generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of stress-responding protein kinases, which are the focus of this review article. EW also inflicts mitochondrial membranes/membrane potential, perturbs redox balance, and suppresses mitochondrial enzymes, all of which impair a fundamental function of mitochondria. Moreover, EW acts as an age-provoking stressor. The vulnerable age to EW stress is not necessarily the oldest age and varies depending upon the target molecule of EW. A major female sex steroid, 17β-estradiol (E2), interferes with the EW-induced alteration of oxidative signaling pathways and thereby protects neurons, mitochondria, and behaviors. The current review attempts to provide integrated information at the levels of oxidative signaling mechanisms by which EW provokes brain injuries and E2 protects against it.