bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel integrin-dependent platelet malfunction in siblings with leukocyte adhesion deficiency-III (LAD-III) caused by a point mutation in FERMT3
Authors: Jurk Kerstin , Schulz Ansgar , Kehrel Beate , Räpple Daniel , Schulze Harald , Möbest Dieter , Friedrich Wilhelm , Omran Heymut , Deak Erika , Henschler Reinhard , Scheele Jürgen , Zieger Barbara
Published: March 2010

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency-III (LAD-III) also called leukocyte adhesion deficiency-1/variant (LAD1v) is a rare congenital disease caused by defective integrin activation of leukocytes and platelets. Patients with LAD-III present with non-purulent infections and increased bleeding symptoms. We report on a novel integrin-dependent platelet dys-function in two brothers with LAD-III syndrome caused by a homozygous mutation 1717C>T in the FERMT3 gene leading to a premature stop codon R573X in the focal adhesion protein kindlin-3. Stimulation of patients´ platelets with all used agonists resulted in a severely decreased binding of soluble fibrinogen indicating a defect in inside-out activation of the integrin αIIbβ3 (GPIIb/IIIa). Patients´ platelets did not respond to the α2β1-integrin agonist aggretin-A at all. Our data on granula secretion indicate for the first time that the thrombin receptor PAR-4 but not PAR-1 may be important in integrin-triggered granule secretion in response to thrombin. In contrast, collagen mediated platelet granule secretion was not affected in LAD-III-patients. Thus, integrin-signalling may be not essential in collagen-induced granule secretion. The patients’ peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed a severe loss of adhesion capacity to VCAM-1 and to endothelial cells compared to cells from healthy donors. Rap-1 activation after PMA stimulation could be observed in controls´ but not in patients´ cells. After haematogenesis stem cell transplantation (HSCT) the brothers showed no symptoms of bleeding or immunodeficiency and the integrin-dependent platelet and leukocyte functions normalised.
Heparins from porcine and bovine intestinal mucosa: Are they similar drugs?
Authors: Vairo Bruno , Cinelli Leonardo , Santos Gustavo , Fonseca Roberto , Aquino Rafael , Pereira Mariana , Mourão Paulo
Published: March 2010

Increasing reports of bleeding and peri- or post-operative blood dyscrasias in Brazil were possibly associated with the use of heparin from bovine instead of porcine intestine. These two pharmaceutical grade heparins were analysed for potential differences. NMR analyses confirmed that porcine heparin is composed of mainly trisulfated disaccharides →4-α-IdoA2S-1→4-α-GlcNS6S-1→. Heparin from bovine intestine is also composed of highly 2-sulfated α-iduronic acid residues, but the sulfation of the α-glucosamine units vary significantly: ~50% are 6-and N-disulfated, as in porcine heparin, while ~36% are 6-desulfated and ~14% N-acetylated. These heparins differ significantly in their effects on coagulation, thrombosis and bleeding. Bovine heparin acts mostly through factor Xa. Compared to porcine heparin on a weight basis, bovine heparin exhibited approximately half of the anticoagulant and antithrombotic effects, but similar effect on bleeding. These two heparins also differ in their protamine neutralisation curves. The doses of heparin from bovine intestine required for effective antithrombotic protection and the production of adverse bleeding effects are closer than those for porcine heparin. This observation may explain the increasing bleeding observed among Brazilian patients. Our results suggest that these two types of heparin are not equivalent drugs.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy Diagnostic Task Force Criteria
Authors: Cox Moniek G.P.J. , van der Smagt Jasper J. , Noorman Maartje , Wiesfeld Ans C. , Volders Paul G.A. , van Langen Irene M. , Atsma Douwe E. , Dooijes Dennis , Houweling Arjan C. , Loh Peter , Jordaens Luc , Arens Yvonne , Cramer Maarten J. , Doevendans Pieter A. , van Tintelen J. Peter , Wilde Arthur A.M. , Hauer Richard N.W.
Published: March 2010

Background—

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia/Cardiomyopathy (ARVD/C) Diagnostic Task Force Criteria (TFC) proposed in 1994 are highly specific but lack sensitivity. A new international task force modified criteria to improve diagnostic yield. A comparison of diagnosis by 1994 TFC versus newly proposed criteria in 3 patient groups was conducted.

Methods and Results—

In new TFC, scoring by major and minor criteria is maintained. Structural abnormalities are quantified and TFC highly specific for ARVD/C upgraded to major. Furthermore, new criteria are added: terminal activation duration of QRS ≥55 ms, ventricular tachycardia with left bundle-branch block morphology and superior axis, and genetic criteria. Three groups were studied: (1) 105 patients with proven ARVD/C according to 1994 TFC, (2) 89 of their family members, and (3) 39 patients with probable ARVD/C (ie, 3 points by 1994 TFC). All were screened for pathogenic mutations in desmosomal genes. Three ARVD/C patients did not meet the new sharpened criteria on structural abnormalities and thereby did not fulfill new TFC. In 62 of 105 patients with proven ARVD/C, mutations were found: 58 in the gene encoding Plakophilin2 (
PKP2
), 3 in Desmoglein2, 3 in Desmocollin2, and 1 in Desmoplakin. Three patients had bigenic involvement. Ten additional relatives (11%) fulfilled new TFC: 9 (90%) were female, and all carried
PKP2
mutations. No relatives lost diagnosis by application of new TFC. Of patients with probable ARVD/C, 25 (64%) fulfilled new TFC: 8 (40%) women and 14 (56%) carrying pathogenic mutations.

Conclusions—

In this first study applying new TFC to patients suspected of ARVD/C, 64% of probable ARVD/C patients and 11% of family members were additionally diagnosed. ECG criteria and pathogenic mutations especially contributed to new diagnosis. Newly proposed TFC have a major impact in increasing diagnostic yield of ARVD/C.
Coding Sequence Rare Variants Identified in
MYBPC3
,
MYH6
,
TPM1
,
TNNC1
, and
TNNI3
From 312 Patients With Familial or Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hershberger Ray E. , Norton Nadine , Morales Ana , Li Duanxiang , Siegfried Jill D. , Gonzalez-Quintana Jorge
Published: March 2010

Background—

Rare variants in >30 genes have been shown to cause idiopathic or familial dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), but the frequency of genetic causation remains poorly understood. We have previously resequenced 9 genes in a cohort of idiopathic or familial DCM probands for rare variants, and now we report resequencing results for 5 more genes with established relationships to DCM.

Methods and Results—

Blood samples were collected, and DNA specimens were prepared from 312 patients, 181 with familial DCM and 131 with idiopathic DCM. Genomic DNA underwent bidirectional sequencing, and DNA of additional family members underwent analysis when a rare variant was identified. We identified rare variants in 34 probands (10.9% overall), including 29 unique protein-altering rare variants and 2 splicing variants that were absent in 246 control subjects (492 chromosomes). These variants were 12
MYBPC3
(myosin-binding protein C) in 13 (4.2%) probands, 8
MYH6
(α-myosin heavy chain) in 10 (3.2%), 6
TPM1
(tropomyosin) in 6 (1.9%), 4
TNNC1
(cardiac troponin C) in 4 (1.3%), and 1
TNNI3
(cardiac troponin I) in 2 (0.6%). Variants were classified as likely or possibly disease causing in 13 and 20 probands, respectively (n=33; 10.6% overall). One
MYH6
variant was classified as unlikely to be disease causing.

Conclusion—

Rare variants in these 5 genes likely or possibly caused 10.6% of DCM in this cohort. When combined with our prior resequencing reports, ≈27% of DCM probands had possible or likely disease-causing variants identified.
Arctic Oscillation during the Mid-Holocene and Last Glacial Maximum from PMIP2 Coupled Model Simulations
Authors: Lü Jun-Mei , Kim Seong-Joong , Abe-Ouchi Ayako , Yu Yongqiang , Ohgaito Rumi
Published: March 2010

Changes in the Arctic Oscillation (AO) during the mid-Holocene and the Last Glacial Maximum were compared to preindustrial (PI) simulations using four coupled ocean–atmosphere models [i.e., Community Climate System Model (CCSM), third climate configuration of the Met Office Unified Model (HadCM3) Met Office Surface Exchanges Scheme, version 2 (MOSES2), L’Institut Pierre-Simon Laplace (IPSL), and Model for Interdisciplinary Research on Climate 3.2 (MIROC3.2)] from the second phase of the Paleoclimate Modeling Intercomparison Project. Results show that the amplitude of the simulated AO during the mid-Holocene is a little smaller than that of the preindustrial simulation. Although the AO pattern and vertical structures are similar to those in the preindustrial simulation, the polar westerlies are slightly weakened and displaced downward to the lower stratosphere, accompanied by weakening of the polar vortex and warming of the cold polar cap region. During the Last Glacial Maximum, when the Northern Hemisphere experiences severe cooling, the intensity of the AO decreases substantially compared to the mid-Holocene, with smaller standard deviations of the AO indices in all models. Furthermore, the magnitude of positive and negative centers of the AO spatial pattern decreases and the strength of the polar vortex and westerlies weakens further with the center of westerlies displaced into the midlatitude upper troposphere. The polar cap region becomes anomalously warm in the stratosphere, whereas it remains cold in the troposphere. The AO appears to be sensitive to background climate state.

Upward-propagating stationary Rossby waves are found to be stronger during the mid-Holocene and Last Glacial Maximum than in the preindustrial simulation. This increase in planetary wave activity might be responsible for the simulated weakening of the AO during the mid-Holocene and Last Glacial Maximum. Recent studies have shown that there is a significant correlation between Eurasian fall snow cover and the winter AO. The upward propagation of Rossby waves was further proposed to explain the physical process linking the AO with the snow depth. It is suggested that a large increase in fall snow depth during the Last Glacial Maximum strengthens the upward-propagating stationary Rossby waves relative to the PI.
Note on ‘Influences of Resource Limitations and Transmission Costs on Epidemic Simulations and Critical Thresholds in Scale-Free Networks’
Authors: Wilson James R
Published: March 2010

In a recent paper entitled ‘Influences of Resource Limitations and Transmission Costs on Epidemic Simulations and Critical Thresholds in Scale-Free Networks’ by Huang et al., the authors attempted to establish a key characteristic of epidemic dynamics in a scale-free network when properly accounting for the cost of transmitting the infection at each node and the resources available for transmission to that node. The main input parameter is the effective rate of spreading the infection, i.e. the instantaneous rate at which the infection is spread to an uninfected node via a single link to an infected node. The primary result is the existence of a positive critical threshold for the infection-spreading rate at or below which the epidemic dies out and above which the epidemic is spread through the network and ultimately reaches a steady-state non-vanishing condition. Some flaws in the authors’ proof of this result are discussed, and an alternative derivation is provided that sheds additional light on the transient and steady-state behavior of the system. The alternative derivation may be adapted to the analysis of other scale-free networks with different features.
The Effects of Different Amounts of Lubricant Application on the Sewing Thread Performance Properties
Authors: Eryuruk Selın Hanife , Kalaoglu Fatma
Published: March 2010

In this study, different amounts of lubricant were applied to air-jet polyester, polyester-spun, core-spun (poly/poly) and cotton ring sewing threads having the same final count. Mechanical and frictional properties of these sewing threads were measured. An evaluation was made in order to determine the effect of the amount of lubrication on yarn elongation, frictional forces, friction coefficient, electrostatic charging and seam breaking strength of different sewing thread types. The relationship between yarn strength and seam breaking strength was also evaluated.
Polymer Nanocomposites for Multifunctional Finishing of Textiles - a Review
Authors: Gowri Sorna , Almeida Luís , Amorim Teresa , Carneiro Noémia , Pedro Souto António , Fátima Esteves Maria
Published: March 2010

Improvement of existing properties and the creation of new material properties are the most important reasons for the functionalization of textiles. Polymer nanocomposites offer the possibility of developing a new class of nanofinishing materials for textiles with their own manifold of structure property relationship only indirectly related to their components and their micron and macro-scale composite counterparts. Though polymer nanocomposites with inorganic filler of different dimensionality and chemistry are possible, efforts have only begun to uncover the wealth of possibilities of these new materials. Approaches to modify the polymer nanocomposite system by various inorganic or organic substances can lead to a huge number of additional functionalities which are increasingly demanded by the textile industries. In this review, we have compiled the current research in polymer nanocomposite-based nanofinishes for multifunctional textiles which provides a snapshot of the current experimental and theoretical tools being used to advance our understanding of polymer nanocomposites and their applications in textiles.
Influence of Glyoxal in the Physical Characterization of PVA Nanofibers
Authors: Blanes M. , Gisbert M.J. , Marco B. , Bonet M. , Gisbert J. , Balart R.
Published: March 2010

The influence of solution composition is directly related to the properties of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers. Electrospinning is a viable technique to develop PVA nanofibers. The presence of a crosslinking agent such as glyoxal can produce variations not only in anti-water solubility effect, but also in the morphology of the electrodeposited fibers. The objective of this study was to characterize the influence of glyoxal on PVA nanofibers. Thus, we studied fiber dimensions, the weight of deposited fibers, and fiber crystallinity. The relation between those properties and the properties of the nanofiber web (color, opacity, and roughness) were studied. In this study we changed glyoxal concentration. Scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and atomic force microscopy showed changes in the fiber properties. We could observe how the diameter fiber increased, the collector surface was widely covered, and the fiber crystallinity decreased. Regarding the properties of the web, the roughness decreased and the color turned whiter.
Adaptive Williams filters for active vehicle suspensions
Authors: Readman Mark C. , Corless Martin , Villegas Carlos , Shorten Robert
Published: March 2010

With active vehicle suspension, one can tailor a vehicle’s response to load and inertial disturbances without affecting the vehicle response to road disturbances. This decoupling is achieved using a filtered combination of measured signals. These filters, which we call Williams filters, require exact knowledge of certain vehicle parameters including vehicle mass to achieve the desired decoupling. However, vehicle parameters, such as mass, are subject to abrupt variations as vehicle load changes. Here we propose an adaptive Williams filter that does not require knowledge of vehicle parameters.
Driven to Work and Enjoyment of Work
Authors: Graves Laura M. , Ruderman Marian N. , Ohlott Patricia J. , Weber Todd J.
Published: March 2010

The authors examined the effects of two types of motivation, driven to work and enjoyment of work, on managers’ ( N = 346) performance, career satisfaction, and psychological strain. Performance was assessed using 360-degree performance ratings. The authors also tested the effects of self-esteem on the two motives. They found that the enjoyment motive was positively related to career satisfaction and performance and negatively related to strain. Driven to work had no main effects but appeared to interact with enjoyment of work to influence performance and strain. When enjoyment of work was high, driven to work was unrelated to performance or strain. When enjoyment of work was low, increases in driven to work were associated with increases in both performance and strain. Self-esteem was positively related to enjoyment of work and negatively related to driven to work. Overall, the authors’ findings suggest that being motivated by enjoyment of work facilitates both effectiveness and well-being.
Ameliorative Effects of Curcumin on the Seminiferous Epithelium in Metronidazole-Treated Mice
Authors: Noorafshan Ali , Karbalay-Doust Saied , Valizadeh Armita , Aliabadi Elham , Mirkhani Hossein
Published: March 2010

Metronidazole (MTZ) has negative effects on sperm analysis and testis structure. Curcumin is the principal curcuminoid found in turmeric and exhibits antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infectious activities with low toxicity. To evaluate stereological changes of seminiferous germinal epithelium by MTZ and ameliorative effects of curcumin, Balb-c mice were divided into 6 groups. The control, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups were administrated distilled water, high doses of MTZ (500 mg/kg/day), MTZ (500 mg/kg/day) + 100 mg/kg/d curcumin, therapeutic doses of MTZ (165 mg/kg/day), MTZ (165 mg/kg/day) + 100 mg/kg/day curcumin, and 100 mg/kg/day curcumin, respectively. Testis weight, testis volume, total epithelial volume, spermatocytes, and spermatid number showed a significant reduction in MTZ-treated (high or therapeutic doses) animals in comparison with the controls. Curcumin can protect spermatocytes after high or therapeutic doses of MTZ treatment. But curcumin is able to protect the other parameters only in the mice receiving therapeutic doses of MTZ. The total number of sertoli cells and spermatogonia did not show any significant difference in the mice that received MTZ. MTZ can reduce germinal epithelium volume and the number of spermatocytes and spermatids. Ameliorative effects of curcumin can mainly be observed in the mice receiving therapeutic doses of MTZ.
Prolonged Inhibition of Glycogen Phosphorylase in Livers of Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats Models Human Glycogen Storage Diseases
Authors: Floettmann Eike , Gregory Laraine , Teague Joanne , Myatt John , Hammond Clare , Poucher Simon M. , Jones Huw B.
Published: March 2010

The preclinical efficacy and safety of GPi921, a glycogen phosphorylase inhibitor, was assessed following twenty-eight days of administration to Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF) rats. The ZDF rat is an animal model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (TTDM) which develops severe hyperglycemia. Inhibition of glycogen phosphorylase throughout the duration of the study was demonstrated by reductions in twenty-four-hour glucose profiles and glycated hemoglobin levels. In addition, progression towards hyperglycemia was halted in treated but not control animals, which developed hyperglycemia over the twenty-eight days of the study. Biochemical and histopathological analysis revealed large increases in hepatic glycogen, which closely paralleled the development of hepatomegaly and ultimately resulted in increases in hepatic lipids. Furthermore, prolonged glycogen phosphorylase inhibition resulted in an increased incidence and severity of other adverse pathological findings in the liver, such as inflammation, fibrosis, hemorrhage, and necrosis. The observed biochemical and histopathological phenotype of the liver closely resembled that seen in severe cases of human glycogen storage diseases (GSD) and hepatic glycogenosis in poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. These findings revealed that although glycogen phosphorylase inhibitors are efficacious agents for the control of hyperglycemia, prolonged treatment might have the potential to cause significant clinical hepatic complications that resemble those seen in GSD and hepatic glycogenosis.
Effects of Short-Term Cigarette Smoke Exposure on Fischer 344 Rats and on Selected Lung Proteins
Authors: Carter Charleata A. , Misra Manoj
Published: March 2010

A short-term 5-day cigarette smoke exposure study was conducted in Fischer 344 rats to identify smoke-induced lung protein changes. Groups of 10 male and 10 female rats at 5 weeks of age were randomly assigned to one of four exposure groups. Animals received filtered air (control) or 75, 200, or 400 mg total particulate matter (TPM)/m3 of diluted Kentucky reference 3R4F cigarette smoke. Nose-only exposures were conducted for 3 hours/day for 5 consecutive days. Mean body weights were significantly reduced only in male rats exposed to 400 mg TPM/m3. Body weight gains were significantly reduced in 200- and 400-mg TPM/m3–exposed males and in all smoke-exposed females compared with controls. Alveolar histiocytosis increased slightly in all smoke exposed-females and 200- and 400-mg TPM/m3–exposed males. Cyclooxygenase-2 staining increased at 400 mg TPM/m3. Matrix metalloproteinase–12 staining of alveolar macrophages and bronchiolar epithelia increased in smoke-exposed animals, especially 400-mg TPM/m3–exposed females. Protein kinase C–α staining increased in macrophages at 200- and 400-mg TPM/m3 doses. c-Jun NH2-terminal kinases staining decreased in smoke-exposed tissues. The identified changed proteins play roles in inflammation, transformation, proliferation, stress activation, and apoptosis.
Measuring performance and impact of rural community-led library initiatives in Thailand
Authors: Zabed Ahmed S.M.
Published: March 2010

Reports the results of performance and impact evaluation of three community-led library initiatives in Central Thailand. The methodology included both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Point of exit interviews with library users were undertaken to gather their opinions on library collections, performance and impact. The constraints faced by community dwellers in using the libraries were also identified. Interviews with community leaders were conducted to gain their perspectives on the problems and how library services could be improved. The results showed that small-scale community-run library services have the potential to make a positive impact on community development. The results also yielded several implications for community-based libraries in Thailand, including how their services could be improved to have even greater impact on the communities they serve. A model for community libraries is provided which can be replicated to speed up rural development in Thailand and beyond.
Evaluating the X-Lib Library Automation System at Babcock University, Nigeria: A case study
Authors: Osaniyi Lanre
Published: March 2010

The objective of this article is to evaluate the potential of the X-Lib Library Automation System in Nigerian university libraries through an assessment of how it meets the current and future requirements of Babcock University Library. The current and future potential of X-Lib in Babcock University Library were examined using the R2ISC criteria. The criteria used to evaluate current potential included: the ability of Xlib to accommodate a large collection; ability to integrate the basic operations of acquisitions, cataloguing, and circulation; modular design; ease of use; ability to search and retrieve records by various fields; ability to produce end user reports; ability to define security or restrict users to specific screens; ability to perform specialized services; and backup and restore utility. The criteria analysed to determine future potential included: response time; level of configurability; operating system; upgrade; hardware; and the future of the developer or vendor. The result showed 62.6 and 45.5 percentage fits respectively to the current and future requirements of the Babcock University Library. The strengths and limitations of X-Lib are highlighted.
Health information seeking behavior among rural and urban Peruvians: variations in information resource access and preferences
Authors: Garcia-Cosavalente H. Patricia , Wood Lawrence E. , Obregon Rafael
Published: March 2010

Objective: The study was designed to determine health information seeking behavior of urban and rural Peruvians, primarily as a means to assess differences across these two populations in relation to both access and levels of use of communication technologies for obtaining health information. Method: The method consisted in the use of a survey conducted in four different areas of Peru during the period November 2006 through January 2007. Results: Health professionals serve as a key source of health information for urban and rural Peruvians; however, there are apparent differences in the ways urban and rural Peruvians obtain information about health related issues, at least in terms of telecommunication mediums. Conclusions: Urban Peruvians are more likely to take advantage of the Internet as a means of acquiring health information. Meanwhile, rural Peruvians still largely prefer radio as a source of health information.
Patent Documents as a Source of Technological Information in Brazil: a user study of the Program of Automatic Supply of Technological Information (PROFINT)
Authors: Crespo de Barros Wanderley , Gomes de Souza Cristina
Published: March 2010

PROFINT is a program of the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) which sends technological information contained in patent documents to companies registered in the program. This paper presents the results of a survey of users of PROFINT, identifying: a) the profile of these users; 2) their use of the patent system; and c) the results obtained from using technological information from patent documents. The work was based on documentary research and the application of questionnaires. The research showed that patent documents are being used as instruments of competitive intelligence, providing strategic information to assist managers of technology and innovation to generate and improve products and processes. Although the users of PROFINT also make use of other sources of information, the importance attributed to technological information obtained from patent documents was considered high.
Surgical Treatment of Complex Bicruciate Knee Ligament Injuries in Elite Athletes
Authors: Hirschmann Michael Tobias , Iranpour Farhad , Müller Werner , Friederich Niklaus F.
Published: March 2010

Background: A traumatic knee dislocation represents a serious injury, particularly for athletes who have the highest demands on their knee function.

Purpose: Our aim was to analyze the long-term outcome and return to sports after traumatic knee dislocation in elite athletes treated surgically according to a standardized treatment protocol and to identify predictive factors for a successful outcome.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: A review of hospital medical records yielded 26 elite athletes with a knee dislocation (torn bicruciate ligaments and at least one torn collateral ligament), who had undergone an open complete single-stage reconstruction/primary repair of the cruciates and collateral ligaments including the posterolateral corner from January 1983 to August 2006. Return to sport (start of sport-specific training) was recorded. Return to the former level of sports activity was assessed. At a median follow-up of 8 years (range, 1-23 years), 24 patients (92%) were evaluated for instrumented anterior-posterior laxity (KT-1000 arthrometer) and scored on the visual analog scale (VAS pain, satisfaction), International Knee Documentation Committee form (IKDC), American Knee Society score, and Lysholm and Tegner score. Standard weightbearing and stress radiographs were taken.

Results: Seventy-nine percent of patients (n = 19) returned to their previous sport after a median time of 5.5 months (range, 1.5-36 months), with 8 of them returning to preinjury levels. Eight percent had a VAS pain score >3. Thirteen percent of patients showed a flexion deficit >15°, and 8% showed an extension deficit >10°. The mean side-to-side differences for anterior and posterior laxity were 2.3 mm (range, 1-5 mm) and 2.0 mm (range, 2-7 mm), respectively. The total IKDC score was normal in 4, nearly normal in 12, abnormal in 6, and severely abnormal in 2 patients. The median Lysholm score was 91.8 (range, 37-100). The median Tegner score decreased from 9 (range, 7-10) to 7 (range, 2-10). The median American Knee Society score was 190 (range, 162-200). The median radiological anterior-posterior side-to-side differences in 30° and 90° flexion were 1 mm (range, 1-6 mm)/1 mm (range, 0-11 mm) and 1 mm (range, 0-7 mm)/3 mm (range, 0-11 mm), respectively. Patients treated more than 40 days after injury had a poorer outcomeon the satisfaction and relative Tegner scores. This group was also less successful in returning to sport compared with patients treated earlier.

Conclusion: Athletes treated by early, open, complete single-stage reconstruction within 40 days of injury had better outcomes. Although 19 of 24 patients returned to sports with good functional outcomes and ligamentous stability, only 8 of 24 athletes reached their preinjury sports activity level.
Application of SRP Composite Sheets for Retrofitting Reinforced Concrete Beams: Cracking and Tension Stiffening
Authors: Kim Yail J. , Fam Amir , Green Mark F.
Published: March 2010

This paper presents the contribution of steel-reinforced polymer (SRP) composites to the serviceability of reinforced concrete beams when retrofitted, with particular emphasis on cracking behavior and tension stiffening. SRP composite sheets, consisting of high-carbon steel unidirectional fabrics embedded in epoxy resin, provide high tensile strength and modulus at a reasonable cost. Six reinforced concrete beams, five of which are retrofitted using various widths of SRP sheets with or without end anchorage, are tested in three-point bending to examine their flexural performance, including crack width and depth progression, crack patterns, flexural rigidity, and tension stiffening. A 3D non-linear finite element analysis is conducted and compared to the code provisions and experimental findings. The trend of crack width progression of the SRP-retrofitted beams includes an almost linear response with respect to the SRP strain development. Clear differences in crack spacing are observed between the mid-span and shear-span regions of the test beams. The end anchorage significantly improves flexural rigidity and narrows the crack spacing of SRP-retrofitted beams. A characteristic area, including the tension stiffening factor, is proposed to evaluate the contribution of SRP composites to the flexural rigidity of SRP-retrofitted beams.
Reinforcement of Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Rubber/Samarium Borate and Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Rubber/Sb-doped SnO2 Composites by Three Types of Ethylene—Acrylic Acid: Assessment of Acrylic Acid Content on Crystallinity, Cure, Mechanical, and Electric Properties
Authors: Jun Su  , Shuangjun Chen  , Jun Zhang  , Zhongzi Xu
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of acrylic acid (AA) content of ethylene—acrylic acid copolymers (EAA) and pH level of filler particles on reinforcement of peroxide-cured ethylene—propylene—diene rubber (EPDM)/samarium borate (SmBO3) and EPDM/ Sb-doped SnO 2 (ATO) composites. It was found that EAA could reinforce EPDM by both crystallization and hydrogen bonds formed among carboxyl groups at room temperature, whereas at 180°C EAA could melt and hydrogen bonds would dissociate, both of which could enhance fluidity of gum and facilitate the processing. During vulcanization, carboxylic acid groups could dehydrate among molecules to increase crosslink density. Moreover, the alkaline SmBO3 could neutralize the carboxyl acid and makes dicumyl peroxide more likely to decompose into radicals than in the presence of acidic ATO, which endows EPDM with more crosslink density. After vulcanization, reinforcement of EPDM could be affected by the interaction of crystallinity of EAA, the formed hydrogen bonds and the amount of crosslink points. Surface and volume resistivity of EPDM composites would be reduced because of more conductive channels caused by the rising AA content. Dielectric properties would be affected by the interaction of polar groups and crosslink density.
“It Turned My World Upside Down”: Latino Youths’ Perspectives on Immigration
Authors: Ko Linda K. , Perreira Krista M.
Published: March 2010

Few studies have examined the migration and acculturation experiences of Latino youth in a newly emerging Latino community, communities that historically have had low numbers of Latino residents. This study uses in-depth interview data from the Latino Adolescent, Migration, Health, and Adaptation (LAMHA) project, a mixed-methods study, to document the experiences of Latino youth (aged 14-18) growing up in one emerging Latino community in the southeastern region of North Carolina. Using adolescent’s own words and descriptions, this study shows how migration can turn an adolescent’s world upside down, and it discovers the adaptive strategies that Latino immigrant youth use to turn their world right-side-up as they adapt to life in the United States.
Providing Care for Migrant Farm Worker Families in Their Unique Sociocultural Context and Environment
Authors: Connor Ann , Layne Laura , Thomisee Karen
Published: March 2010

This article highlights the Farm Worker Family Health Program’s (FWFHP) strategies for providing care to migrant farm workers residing within a unique social and cultural context. The care provided by health professions students from a variety of disciplines extends and augments the work of the local migrant farm worker clinic that is pushed beyond capacity during peak growing and harvest times. Nursing’s social responsibility to care for underserved populations is a guiding principle of the FWFHP and shapes how the work is translated into action. The FWFHP is a community—academic partnership that began in the rural southeastern United States in 1993. Challenges facing migrant farm worker families include access to health care, language, health literacy, housing and sanitation, family and community integrity, and workplace safety. The nursing practice strategies used to address these health challenges may be adapted to strengthen health programs serving other populations who live in poverty or reside in low-resource settings.
Culture Care Meanings, Beliefs, and Practices in Rural Dominican Republic
Authors: Schumacher Gretchen
Published: March 2010

Purpose: This ethnonursing study explored the meanings, beliefs, and practices of care for rural Dominicans in the Dominican Republic. Design: Leininger’s culture care diversity and universality theory, ethnonursing, and four-phase analysis method guided the study. Interviews were conducted with 19 general and 10 key informants. Findings: Analysis of interviews revealed three main themes: (a) family presence is essential for meaningful care experiences and care practices, (b) respect and attention are central to the meaning of care and care practices, and (c) rural Dominicans value and use both generic (folk) and professional care practices. Discussion and Conclusion: Implications and recommendations for nursing practice, education, and research are described.
Effects of Koryo Hand Therapy on Serum Hormones and Menopausal Symptoms in Korean Women
Authors: Hye Sook Shin
Published: March 2010

Although previous studies have shown the effectiveness of Koryo hand therapy (KHT) in alleviating menopausal symptoms in middle-aged women, few studies have examined physiological data to evaluate the effect of KHT on menopausal symptoms. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of KHT on biological markers such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), and self-reported symptoms. A two-group pre—post test design was used in the study. Data were collected from October 18 to December 25, 2006. The participants were 23 people in the experimental group and 21 people in the control group. The experimental group received KHT three times per week for a total of 8 weeks. Findings show that the levels of FSH and LH were significantly different in both groups, but levels of E2 were statistically insignificant. The data support the hypothesis that KHT may have a role in reducing menopausal symptoms in the experimental group. KHT is effective in alleviating certain menopausal symptoms and affects the serum level of FSH and LH as shown by physiological evidence and participants’ self-reported symptoms. Further studies are necessary to examine the effects of KHT through more objective data.
Spirituality and Its Relationships With the Health and Illness of Appalachian People
Authors: Diddle Gina , Denham Sharon A.
Published: March 2010

This article explores the ways spirituality intertwines with the health and culture of those living in the Appalachian region. Nursing has long considered the value of spirituality and faith, noting its complex connections with health and illness. Literature pertaining to spirituality, health, and the culture of those residing in the Appalachian region was reviewed. Although the review suggests that connections between spirituality and health exist, empirical evidence is limited, somewhat dated, and lacks viable conclusions relative to the diverse needs of the Appalachian population. Focused research that addresses strongly linked operationally defined variables is needed to strengthen the evidence for clarity about distinct applications to practice.
Modeling of Damage Evolution and Failure in Fiber-Reinforced Ductile Composites Under Thermomechanical Fatigue Loading
Authors: Junqian Zhang  , Fang Wang
Published: March 2010

In this article, a methodology based upon micromechanical analysis of multiple damage-plasticity events is developed to predict nonlinear cyclic stress-strain response and fatigue failure of continuous fiber-reinforced metal matrix composites under cyclical thermomechanical loading. Microscopic damage-plasticity events in composite are described by fiber fracture, local cyclic plasticity of matrix and interface as well as interfacial debonding. A superposition method under the framework of shear-lag arguments is developed to analyze cyclic stress and deformation in the composites. A simulation scheme coupled with Monte-Carlo method is proposed to investigate evolution of damage-plasticity, cyclic behavior, and fatigue life of the composites. The statistic variations in fiber strength, local thermoplasticity of matrix properties, and interface characters between fiber and matrix have been taken into account. The model can predict the crossover behavior of the S-N curves observed in experiments for the in-phase and out-of-phase thermomechanical fatigue loads. The underlying mechanisms controlling the cross-over behavior have been revealed by the simulation.
Computational Study on the Fatigue Behavior of Welded Structures
Authors: Chi Seung Lee  , Myung Hyun Kim  , Jae Myung Lee  , Mahendran Mahen
Published: March 2010

The major objective of this study is to develop a computational fatigue test method for welded structures. The damage mechanics approach is used to derive explicit expressions for fatigue life estimation within the framework of continuum mechanics. Microdamage model is applied to calculate the quasi-brittle material damage prior to the crack initiation. Based on the two-scale model, that is, micro versus meso (macro) scale linkage scheme is implemented in conjunction with finite element method to describe the crack initiation or propagation. For the material damage model used at microscale, a finite element code is developed. Lemaitre’s unified damage model and constitutive equation were chosen so as to ensure the efficiency for developing finite element algorithm. Identification method for material parameters required to constitutive equation is proposed using inversion of Ramberg-Osgood type constitutive model. In order to consider weld-induced residual stresses, the Ueda’s inherent strain scheme is incorporated into the calculation of residual stresses. Computational procedure based on two-scale model with the use of commercial finite element code is successfully constructed. The numerical results obtained by proposed method are compared with experimental results for validation.
Getting to Know O’Connor: Experiencing the Ecosystemic Play Therapy Model With Urban First Nations People
Authors: Boyer Wanda
Published: March 2010

Children’s play behaviors are generally fun for them, but the same cannot be said for children who need clinical help. Play therapy seeks to resolve psychosocial difficulties and reestablish a child’s ability to play and function normally (O’Connor, 2000). Ecosystemic play therapy (EPT) integrates a variety of techniques and theories to create a single model that ‘‘addresses the total child within the context of the child’s ecosystem’’ (O’Connor, 2000, p. 87). Particularly when balancing between a culture of origin, a dominant culture, and the needs of an acculturating child, it is important to use play therapy models that include the caregivers in the therapeutic process (O’Connor, 2005b). The ecosystemic model is that caliber of therapy. This article will act as a catalyst for becoming reacquainted with the ecosystemic model, including a brief history, the major components and techniques, and a case example involving an Urban First Nations family.
Perceptions of Women’s Sexuality Within the Context of Motherhood
Authors: Trice-Black Shannon
Published: March 2010

For women, the transition to motherhood is often a time period filled with excitement, changes, and challenges. Mothers often face changes in their own sexuality in their adjustment to motherhood. The majority of research on the sexual changes during motherhood has focused on the first-year postpartum of mothers and has emphasized biological, hormonal changes. Limited research is available regarding the sexuality of mothers with preschool age children. The findings from this qualitative study provide information about mothers’ perceptions of their sexuality as they adjust to the role of motherhood. These findings can provide awareness and knowledge to counselors in working with women during this unique time period.
Helping Stepfathers ‘‘Step Away’’ From the Role of ‘‘Father’’: Directions for Family Intervention
Authors: Gold Joshua M.
Published: March 2010

This article will use current data to confirm the growing numbers of stepfamilies as a legitimate family constellation in 21st century America. Given those incidences of stepfamily formation, clinicians need to understand salient characteristics of stepfathering as the most recent addition to the family dynamics as a way to support healthy stepfamily integration. This article will review the current literature to provide those descriptions in terms of family interaction patterns and of interactions with the nonresidential father leading to implications for clinical interventions.
Acute cholecystitis in a patient with metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with everolimus
Authors: Cetin Bulent , Coskun Ugur , Yildiz Ramazan , Buyukberber Suleyman , Baykara Meltem , Benekli Mustafa
Published: March 2010

Everolimus (RAD001) is an orally administered inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a therapeutic target for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. A 58-year-old woman was treated with everolimus as a third-line therapy for metastatic clear-cell renal carcinoma. She was given oral everolimus 10 mg once daily. During the fourth week of her first cycle, the patient was admitted to our hospital because of an acute-onset, right upper quadrant pain associated with nausea and vomiting. She was diagnosed with acute cholecystitis, which was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, and everolimus therapy was discontinued. A follow-up computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed a complete resolution of gallbladder changes. Our patient did not have major risk factors for developing a cholecystitis except for a relative immunosuppressed state secondary to her advanced renal cancer. The Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale score for this event was 5, indicating a probable association of the event with everolimus. Because the use of everolimus is expanding in clinical practice, we want to alert the oncology community about this uncommon and life-threatening complication in patients receiving everolimus or another agent with antiangiogenic activity. To our best knowledge, only one case of an acute cholangitis associated with everolimus in a metastatic renal cell carcinoma has been reported. We report herein the first case of a metastatic renal cell carcinoma developed everolimus-associated cholecystitis that was completely reversed after drug withdrawal.
Alternative dosing schedules and administration updates for Ixabepilone
Authors: Kossoff Ellen
Published: March 2010

Ixabepilone 40 mg/m 2 (every 3 weeks) is approved for use in metastatic breast cancer as monotherapy as early as third line and in combination with capecitabine as early as first line in tumors that are resistant or refractory to anthracyclines and taxanes. This article seeks to familiarize oncology pharmacists with the options at their disposal to aid in management of ixabepilone therapy. Toxicity with ixabepilone is reversible and responsive to dose reduction or delay, and the 40 mg/m2 dose may be reduced to 32 mg/m2 and subsequently to 25 mg/m2 should toxicities arise. However, available clinical data cannot support beginning ixabepilone therapy at a reduced dose to mitigate toxicity. Because ixabepilone’s mechanism of action and adverse event profile resemble those of the taxanes, it has been postulated that weekly administration of ixabepilone (15—20 mg/m2 weekly for 3 weeks with a 1 week break) may provide similar advantages to those seen with weekly metronomic paclitaxel administration. Within the last year, preliminary data has emerged that begins to answer questions regarding the use of weekly ixabepilone. The regimen appears to be effective and well-tolerated in metastatic breast cancer and other tumor types, although data from definitive head-to-head studies with the approved regimen are not yet available. Moreover, a recent label change now incorporates alternative infusion liquids to Lactated Ringer’s Solution into the approved dilution protocol for ixabepilone, and similarities and differences from taxane administration are discussed. It is hoped that the influx of new data regarding dosing, scheduling, and administration options for ixabepilone will continue to increase the pharmacist’s ability to optimize treatment outcomes for breast cancer patients.