bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model Uncertainty and Bayesian Model Averaged Benchmark Dose Estimation for Continuous Data
Authors: Shao Kan , Gift Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2013

The benchmark dose (BMD) approach has gained acceptance as a valuable risk assessment tool, but risk assessors still face significant challenges associated with selecting an appropriate BMD/BMDL estimate from the results of a set of acceptable dose‐response models. Current approaches do not explicitly address model uncertainty, and there is an existing need to more fully inform health risk assessors in this regard. In this study, a Bayesian model averaging (BMA) BMD estimation method taking model uncertainty into account is proposed as an alternative to current BMD estimation approaches for continuous data. Using the “hybrid” method proposed by Crump, two strategies of BMA, including both “maximum likelihood estimation based” and “Markov Chain Monte Carlo based” methods, are first applied as a demonstration to calculate model averaged BMD estimates from real continuous dose‐response data. The outcomes from the example data sets examined suggest that the BMA BMD estimates have higher reliability than the estimates from the individual models with highest posterior weight in terms of higher BMDL and smaller 90th percentile intervals. In addition, a simulation study is performed to evaluate the accuracy of the BMA BMD estimator. The results from the simulation study recommend that the BMA BMD estimates have smaller bias than the BMDs selected using other criteria. To further validate the BMA method, some technical issues, including the selection of models and the use of bootstrap methods for BMDL derivation, need further investigation over a more extensive, representative set of dose‐response data.
Adding Sentence Types to a Model of Syntactic Category Acquisition
Authors: Frank Stella , Goldwater Sharon , Keller Frank
Published: June 2013

The acquisition of syntactic categories is a crucial step in the process of acquiring syntax. At this stage, before a full grammar is available, only surface cues are available to the learner. Previous computational models have demonstrated that local contexts are informative for syntactic categorization. However, local contexts are affected by sentence‐level structure. In this paper, we add sentence type as an observed feature to a model of syntactic category acquisition, based on experimental evidence showing that pre‐syntactic children are able to distinguish sentence type using prosody and other cues. The model, a Bayesian Hidden Markov Model, allows for adding sentence type in a few different ways; we find that sentence type can aid syntactic category acquisition if it is used to characterize the differences in word order between sentence types. In these models, knowledge of sentence type permits similar gains to those found by extending the local context.
Translational models of ocular disease
Authors: Zeiss Caroline J.
Published: June 2013

Animals provide indispensable models to translate basic mechanistic discoveries and realize their therapeutic potential in humans. Conversely, advances in human medicine often inform management of similar conditions in clinical veterinary medicine. In this paper, key experimental model species are introduced, with emphasis on genetic contributions of the mouse. Its role and those of larger animal models are described in common ocular research areas including intraocular neoplasia, corneal epithelial and stromal disease, cataract, uveitis, glaucoma, and retinal dystrophies. Emphasis is placed on those conditions shared by humans and domestic animals, with the intent of exploring how the study of comparable conditions in humans, domestic animals, and laboratory animals informs one another.
Wound healing potential of topical bacteriophage therapy on diabetic cutaneous wounds
Authors: Mendes João J. , Leandro Clara , Corte‐Real Sofia , Barbosa Raquel , Cavaco‐Silva Patrícia , Melo‐Cristino José , Górski Andrzej , Garcia Miguel
Published: June 2013

Chronic wounds that fail to heal are a common complication of diabetes mellitus and the most common precipitating reason for nontraumatic lower limb amputation. Unfortunately, the bacterial species that cause these infections are becoming more resistant to antibiotics, making them increasingly difficult to treat. We assessed the feasibility of combating chronic bacterial infections with a topically delivered bacteriophage cocktail in two animal models of diabetes mellitus. Microbiological, planimetric, and histological parameters were compared in debrided infected wounds with or without topical bacteriophage treatment. We determined that bacteriophage treatment effectively decreased bacterial colony counts and improved wound healing, as indicated by smaller epithelial and dermal gaps, in Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections but was not as effective against Acinetobacter baumannii. Although the improvements were more significant in the rodent model than in the porcine model, our results suggest that topically administered bacteriophage treatment may be effective in resolving chronic infections, especially when applied in conjunction with wound debridement. These findings have important implications for the feasibility of using topical antimicrobial therapies to safely treat chronic infections in diabetes mellitus patients.
Burst Pressure Assessment of Pressure Vessel Using Finite Element Analysis: A Review
Authors: Dwivedi Nidhi , Kumar Veerendra , Shrivastava Ashwani , Nareliya Raji
Published: June 2013

The main objective of this paper is to review various types of methods, formulae, and theories used for the calculation of burst strength of pressure vessel. The pressure at which the pressure vessel should burst if all of the specified design tolerances are at their minimum values is called burst pressure. Prediction of burst strength is the very important aspect in the pressure vessel design to avoid any disaster. The present study mainly focuses on various types of factors which tremendously affect the burst strength of pressure vessel.
Design of a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Compatible Metallic Pressure Vessel
Authors: Ouellette Matthew , Han Hui , MacMillan Bryce , Goora Frederic , MacGregor Rodney , Hassan Marwan , Balcom Bruce J.
Published: June 2013

High-pressure measurements in most scientific fields rely on metal vessels, a consequence of the superior tensile strength of metals. Magnetic resonance imaging in conjunction with metallic pressure vessels has recently been introduced. Magnetic resonance imaging with compatible metallic pressure vessels is a very general concept. This paper outlines the specifics of the development and design of these vessels. Metallic pressure vessels not only provide inherently high tensile strengths and efficient temperature control, they also permit optimization of the radio-frequency probe sensitivity. The design and application of magnetic resonance imaging compatible pressure vessels is illustrated through a rock core holder fabricated using nonmagnetic stainless steel. Water flooding through a porous rock at elevated pressure and temperature is shown as an example of its applications. High-pressure magnetic resonance plays an indispensable role in several scientific fields; this work will open new avenues of investigation for high-pressure material science magnetic resonance imaging.
Unified Approach for Notch Stress Strain Conversion Rules
Authors: Adibi-Asl R. , Seshadri R.
Published: June 2013

There are several simplified methods, known as notch stress-strain conversion (NSSC) rules that provide an approximate formula to relate local elastic-plastic stresses and strains at the notch root to those estimated elastically. This paper investigates a unified approach that estimates nonlinear and history dependent stress-strain behavior of the notches using the conventional NSSC rules. A nonlinear interpolation method is adopted to estimate the elastic-plastic stress and strain at notches. A comparison is made between the finite element results for several notch configurations (with and without three-dimensional effects) and those obtained from NSSC rules and the proposed formulation.
Equations to Calculate Collapse Strength for High Collapse Casing
Authors: Lin Yuanhua , Sun Yongxing , Shi Taihe , Deng Kuanhai , Han Liexiang , Sun Haifang , Zeng Dezhi , Zhu Hongjun
Published: June 2013

As wells are drilled deeper, the external pressures applied to well casing become greater. Conventional America Petroleum Institute (API) casing strength cannot meet the strength criteria of high pressure, high temperature, and high H2S (HPHTHS) gas wells which are called “3-high” gas wells. When high collapse casing (HCC) is applied in oil fields, it has obviously improved collapse properties in excess of API ratings. HCC shows a very high resistance to tension load, internal pressure, and collapse, as well as being highly resistant to sulfide stress corrosion cracking (SSCC), and it also can be used for deep and sour gas and oil fields. For imperfections of the API 5C3 collapse formula, the joint API/ISO work group ISOTC67 SC5 WG2b have proposed the current API Bulletin 5C3, and a new collapse strength model with manufacturing imperfections, such as ovality, eccentricity, residual stress, etc., improves the casing strength calculation accuracy and increases the benefits for casing strength design, rather than just using API Bulletin 5C3. The study on the new ISO collapse model has found that it is inappropriate to predict the collapse strength of the high collapse casing. As a result, on the basis of my work group results, a new high collapse model for predicting the collapse strength of all HCC has been presented. Numerical and experimental comparisons show that the “new high collapse model” predicts higher accuracy than that of ISO, and this will make great improvements in the casing design of deep and ultradeep wells on the basis of HCC material safety, which was guaranteed.
Design and Fatigue Performance of Large Utility-Scale Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Fossum Peter K. , Frøyd Lars , Dahlhaug Ole G.
Published: June 2013

Aeroelastic design and fatigue analysis of large utility-scale wind turbine blades have been performed to investigate the applicability of different types of materials in a fatigue environment. The blade designs used in the study are developed according to an iterative numerical design process for realistic wind turbine blades, and the software tool FAST is used for advanced aero-servo-elastic simulations. Elementary beam theory is used to calculate strain time series from these simulations, and the material fatigue is evaluated using established methods. Following wind turbine design standards, the fatigue evaluation is based on a turbulent wind load case. Fatigue damage is estimated based on 100% availability and a site-specific annual wind distribution. Rainflow cycle counting and Miner's sum for cumulative damage prediction is used together with constant life diagrams tailored to actual material S-N data. Material properties are based on 95% survival probability, 95% confidence level, and additional material safety factors to maintain conservative results. Fatigue performance is first evaluated for a baseline blade design of the 10 MW NOWITECH reference wind turbine. Results show that blade damage is dominated by tensile stresses due to poorer tensile fatigue characteristics of the shell glass fiber material. The interaction between turbulent wind and gravitational fluctuations is demonstrated to greatly influence the damage. The need for relevant S-N data to reliably predict fatigue damage accumulation and to avoid nonconservative conclusions is demonstrated. State-of-art wind turbine blade trends are discussed and different design varieties of the baseline blade are analyzed in a parametric study focusing on fatigue performance and material costs. It is observed that higher performance material is more favorable in the spar-cap construction of large blades which are designed for lower wind speeds.
Classification of Commercial Building Electrical Demand Profiles for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Florita Anthony R. , Brackney Larry J. , Otanicar Todd P. , Robertson Jeffrey
Published: June 2013

Commercial buildings have a significant impact on energy and the environment, being responsible for more than 18% of the annual primary energy consumption in the United States. Analyzing their electrical demand profiles is necessary for the assessment of supply-demand interactions and potential; of particular importance are supply- or demand-side energy storage assets and the value they bring to various stakeholders in the smart grid context. This research developed and applied unsupervised classification of commercial buildings according to their electrical demand profile. A Department of Energy (DOE) database was employed, containing electrical demand profiles representing the United States commercial building stock as detailed in the 2003 Commercial Buildings Consumption Survey (CBECS) and as modeled in the EnergyPlus building energy simulation tool. The essence of the approach was: (1) discrete wavelet transformation of the electrical demand profiles, (2) energy and entropy feature extraction (absolute and relative) from the wavelet levels at definitive time frames, and (3) Bayesian probabilistic hierarchical clustering of the features to classify the buildings in terms of similar patterns of electrical demand. The process yielded a categorized and more manageable set of representative electrical demand profiles, inference of the characteristics influencing supply-demand interactions, and a test bed for quantifying the impact of applying energy storage technologies.
Buckling of Cylindrical, Thin Wall, Trailer Truck Tanks and ASME Section XII
Authors: Karcher Guido G. , Ward P. E. Monte , Spoelstra Gary P.
Published: June 2013

New hazmat (hazardous material) and nonhazmat transport tanks will be constructed to the rules of the ASME Code Section XII (ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, 3 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990). The criteria and basis to design these tanks have been questioned and a full scale buckling test has been performed to evaluate maximum allowable over-the-road loadings and required design details. This paper summarizes the results of this testing and provides comparisons with classical Code buckling criteria, Code Case 2286-2 (ASME Code Case 2286-2, Cases of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Case 2286-2, “Alternative Rules for Determining Allowable Compressive Stresses for Cylinders, Cones, Spheres, and Formed Heads”) and other methods for such evaluations. The objective is to provide the ASME Section XII committee with a basis for establishing buckling design criteria and shell stiffening details for both hazmat and nonhazmat transport tanks.
Study of the Optical Impact of Receiver Position Error on Parabolic Trough Collectors
Authors: Zhu Guangdong
Published: June 2013

A newly developed analytical optical approach—first-principle OPTical intercept calculation (FirstOPTIC)—is employed to study the optical impact of receiver position error on parabolic trough collectors. The FirstOPTIC method treats optical error sources the way they are typically characterized in laboratory measurements using a geometrical or optical interpretation. By analyzing a large number of cases with varying system parameters, such as overall system optical error and the collector's geometrical parameters, a practical correlation between actual measurement data and its corresponding error-convolution approximation for receiver position error is established from parametric study; the correlation enables a direct comparison of receiver position error to the sun shape and other optical error sources (such as mirror specularity and slope error) with respect to the collector optical performance. The effective coefficients that define the correlation of actual measurement data and its error-convolution approximation for receiver position error are also summarized for several existing trough collectors; these make it convenient to characterize the relative impact of receiver position error compared with other optical error sources, which was not straightforward in the past. It is shown that FirstOPTIC is a suitable tool for in-depth optical analysis and fast collector design optimization, which otherwise require computationally intensive ray-tracing simulations.
Low Cycle Fatigue Behavior and Seismic Assessment for Pipe Bend Having Local Wall Thinning-Influence of Internal Pressure
Authors: Urabe Yoshio , Takahashi Koji , Sato Kyohei , Ando Kotoji
Published: June 2013

One of the concerned technical issues in the nuclear piping under operation is pipe wall thinning caused by flow accelerated corrosion. This paper focuses on influence of internal pressure on low cycle fatigue life of pipe bends with local wall thinning and evaluation of safety margin against seismic loading in order to apply the obtained knowledge to the nuclear piping. In-plane bending fatigue tests under several constant internal pressure magnitudes were carried out using carbon steel pipe bends with local wall thinning at the extrados. Also finite element analysis, code-based seismic evaluation and fatigue analysis based on calculated strain range were carried out. Obtained main conclusions are as follows: (1) the tested pipe bends with local wall thinning at the extrados have a strong resistance against fatigue failure based on nuclear seismic piping design in Japan at least up to 12 MPa. That is, the tested pipe bends with severe local wall thinning (eroded ratio = 0.5 and eroded angle = 180 deg) at the extrados have margins against fatigue failure, even though the wall thickness is less than the code-required minimum value based on the nuclear piping seismic design in Japan. (2) Combination of the conventional B2 index and the Ke factor provided in the JSME Design and Construction Code, which is referred by JEAC 4601-2008 overestimates fictitious stress amplitude, when sum of the primary and secondary stress is much greater than 3 Sm.
How Many Salicylic Acid Receptors Does a Plant Cell Need?
Authors: Kaltdorf Martin , Naseem Muhammad
Published: June 2013

Paralogous proteins NPR1, NPR3, and NPR4 are receptors for the plant immunity mediator salicylic acid.
Venomous SERCA
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: June 2013

Wasp venom contains a Ca
2+
pump that limits calcium signaling in parasitized flies.
Signaling for Remyelination
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: June 2013

Inhibiting SIRT1 may improve demyelinating neuropathies by inducing the expansion of myelin-producing oligodendrocytes.
Correlation between Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis Susceptibility to Artemisinin and Alkylation of Heme by the Drug
Authors: Robert Anne , Claparols Catherine , Witkowski Benoit , Benoit-Vical Françoise
Published: June 2013

Evidence of artemisinin (ART) resistance in all of the Greater Mekong Region is currently of major concern. Understanding of the mechanisms of resistance developed by
Plasmodium
against artemisinin and its derivatives is urgently needed. We here demonstrated that ART was able to alkylate heme in mice infected by the ART-susceptible strain of
Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis
, Y-control. After long-term drug pressure, the parasite strain (Y-ART3) was 5-fold less susceptible to ART than Y-control. In the blood of mice infected by Y-ART3, no heme-artemisinin adducts could be detected. After release of ART drug pressure, the parasite strain obtained (Y-REL) regained both drug susceptibility to ART and increased ability to produce covalent heme-artemisinin adducts. The correlation between parasite ART susceptibility and alkylation of heme by the drug confirms that heme or hemozoin metabolism is a key target for efficacy of ART as an antimalarial.
Contribution of Interleukin-12 p35 (IL-12p35) and IL-12p40 to Protective Immunity and Pathology in Mice Infected with Chlamydia muridarum
Authors: Chen Lili , Lei Lei , Zhou Zhou , He Jie , Xu Sha , Lu Chunxue , Chen Jianlin , Yang Zhangsheng , Wu Gangqiu , Yeh I-Tien , Zhong Guangming , Wu Yimou
Published: June 2013

The p35 molecule is unique to interleukin-12 (IL-12), while p40 is shared by both IL-12 and IL-23. IL-12 promotes Th1 T cell responses, while IL-23 promotes Th17 T cell responses. The roles of IL-12p35- and IL-12p40-mediated responses in chlamydial infection were compared in mice following an intravaginal infection withChlamydia muridarum. Mice deficient in either IL-12p35 or p40 both developed similar but prolonged infection time courses, confirming the roles of IL-12-mediated immune responses in clearing primary infection. However, all mice, regardless of genotype, cleared reinfection within 2 weeks, suggesting that an IL-12- or IL-23-independent adaptive immunity is protective against chlamydial infection. All infected mice developed severe oviduct hydrosalpinx despite the increased Th2 responses in IL-12p35- or IL-12p40-deficient mice, suggesting that Th2-dominant responses can contribute toChlamydia-induced inflammatory pathology. Compared to IL-12p35 knockout mice, the IL-12p40-deficient mice exhibited more extensive spreading of chlamydial organisms into kidney tissues, leading to significantly increased incidence of pyelonephritis, which both confirms the role of IL-12 or IL-23-independent host responses inChlamydia-induced pathologies and suggests that in the absence of IL-12/IFN-γ-mediated Th1 immunity, an IL-23-mediated response may play an important role in restricting chlamydial organisms from spreading into distal organs. These observations together provide important information for both understanding chlamydial pathogenesis and developing anti-Chlamydiavaccines.
Haemophilus ducreyi Infection Induces Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in Nonpolarized but Not in Polarized Human Macrophages
Authors: Li Wei , Katz Barry P. , Bauer Margaret E. , Spinola Stanley M.
Published: June 2013

Recognition of microbial infection by certain intracellular pattern recognition receptors leads to the formation of a multiprotein complex termed the inflammasome. Inflammasome assembly activates caspase-1 and leads to cleavage and secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and IL-18, which help control many bacterial pathogens. However, excessive inflammation mediated by inflammasome activation can also contribute to immunopathology. Here, we investigated whether
Haemophilus ducreyi
, a Gram-negative bacterium that causes the genital ulcer disease chancroid, activates inflammasomes in experimentally infected human skin and in monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM). Although
H. ducreyi
is predominantly extracellular during human infection, several inflammasome-related components were transcriptionally upregulated in
H. ducreyi
-infected skin. Infection of MDM with live, but not heat-killed,
H. ducreyi
induced caspase-1- and caspase-5-dependent processing and secretion of IL-1β. Blockage of
H. ducreyi
uptake by cytochalasin D significantly reduced the amount of secreted IL-1β. Knocking down the expression of the inflammasome components NLRP3 and ASC abolished IL-1β production. Consistent with NLRP3-dependent inflammasome activation, blocking ATP signaling, K
+
efflux, cathepsin B activity, and lysosomal acidification all inhibited IL-1β secretion. However, inhibition of the production and function of reactive oxygen species did not decrease IL-1β production. Polarization of macrophages to classically activated M1 or alternatively activated M2 cells abrogated IL-1β secretion elicited by
H. ducreyi
. Our study data indicate that
H. ducreyi
induces NLRP3 inflammasome activation via multiple mechanisms and suggest that the heterogeneity of macrophages within human lesions may modulate inflammasome activation during human infection.
Perforin-2 Restricts Growth of Chlamydia trachomatis in Macrophages
Authors: Fields K. A. , McCormack R. , de Armas L. R. , Podack E. R.
Published: June 2013

Chlamydia trachomatisis a Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium that preferentially infects epithelial cells. Professional phagocytes provideC. trachomatisonly a limited ability to survive and are proficient killers of chlamydiae. We present evidence herein that identifies a novel host defense protein, perforin-2, that plays a significant role in the eradication ofC. trachomatisduring the infection of macrophages. Knockdown of perforin-2 in macrophages did not alter the invasion of host cells but did result in chlamydial growth that closely mirrored that detected in HeLa cells.C trachomatisL2, serovar B, and serovar D andC. muridarumwere all equally susceptible to perforin-2-mediated killing. Interestingly, induction of perforin-2 expression in epithelial cells is blocked during productive chlamydial growth, thereby protecting chlamydiae from bactericidal attack. Ectopic expression of perforin-2 in HeLa cells, however, does result in killing. Overall, our data implicate a new innate resistance protein in the control of chlamydial infection and may help explain why the macrophage environment is hostile to chlamydial growth.
Ash-leaf spots or naevus depigmentosus: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Jindal Rashmi , Jain Anshu , Gupta Alpa , Shirazi Nadia
Published: June 2013

Ash-leaf spots, a diagnostic manifestation of tuberous sclerosis complex, are sometimes difficult to differentiate from other hypopigmented lesions. Vitiligo, naevus anaemicus and naevus depigmentosus are important clinical differentials for ash-leaf spots. Among these naevus depigmentosus poses maximum difficulty because of clinical as well as histological similarities. Here we describe a 6-month-old child with multiple segmental hypopigmented macules over the face. In isolation lesions appeared to be those of naevus depigmentosus. However, the presence of other manifestations of tuberous sclerosis favoured the diagnosis of ash-leaf spots. Important similarities and differences between the two have also been discussed.
Laparoscopic repair of adult Bochdalek's hernia
Authors: Husain Musharraf , Hajini Firdoos Farooq , Ganguly Pavitra , Bukhari Syed
Published: June 2013

Bochdalek's hernia is a type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia occurring in approximately 1 in 2200–12 500 live births. It is considered to be extremely rare in adults and poses a diagnostic challenge. We present a case of a young man who was diagnosed as a case of congenital Bochdalek's hernia and underwent laparoscopic mesh repair.
Acute encephalopathy in familial hemiplegic migraine withATP1A2mutation
Authors: Merwick Aine , Fernandez Desiree , McNamara Brian , Harrington Hugh
Published: June 2013

Familial hemiplegic migraine is a rare subtype of migraine with aura which includes motor weakness. A 32-year-old woman with known familial hemiplegic migraine (point mutation in Exon 22 of theATP1A2gene) presented with an acute confusional state, after an initially typical migraine. On examination, she had fever (38°C), agitated, with a right hemiparesis and dysphasia. Electroencephalography showed slowing of α rhythm and continuous rhythmical δ activity in the left hemisphere. She recovered 48 h after the onset of encephalopathic episode. Electroencephalography after recovery showed resolution of the abnormal slowing of the α waveforms.
Infection versus ALVAL: acute presentation with abdominal pain
Authors: Abdul Nicole , Fountain James , Stockley Ian
Published: June 2013

A 52-year-old man underwent bilateral articular surface replacement (ASR) DePuy in June 2006. Following a right femoral neck fracture 4 days postoperatively, he underwent revision to a cemented C-stem DePuy, a taper sleeve adaptor and a 47 mm diameter cobalt chromium femoral head. The patient recovered well with satisfactory 5-year follow-up. In September 2011 the patient presented to the accident and emergency department with a 5-day history of feeling unwell with right lower quadrant pain. Examination of the right hip was unremarkable apart from painful adduction. Blood tests showed raised inflammatory markers and white cell count. MRI scan showed a right iliopsoas collection which appeared to communicate with the hip joint. The patient underwent a direct exchange of the right hip prosthesis. The intraoperative clinical picture was suggestive of atypical lymphocytic vasculitis and associated lesions. The patient recovered well and was discharged home. At his last clinic visit he was well and pain free.
Altered mental status and complete heart block: an unusual presentation of aspirin toxicity
Authors: Aggarwal Nidhi , Kupfer Yizhak , Chawla Kabu , Tessler Sidney
Published: June 2013

Aspirin is one of the most commonly used medications. We report a patient who presented with severe weakness, altered mental status and complete heart block requiring temporary pacing. Despite the patient's family denying that the patient used aspirin, an arterial blood gas that revealed a respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis suggested the diagnosis of salicylate toxicity. The salicylate level was extremely elevated and the patient was successfully treated with haemodialysis. Our case illustrates that salicylate toxicity should be considered in a patient with a combined metabolic acidosis and respiratory alkalosis. A prompt salicylate level should be obtained. This is also the first case of salicylate toxicity causing complete heart block in an adult. The heart block resolved with treatment of the salicylate toxicity.
HIGH-ENERGY FEMORAL SHAFT FRACTURES IN CABLE WAKEBOARDING AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE. CASE REPORT
Authors: Bäcker Henrik , Vásárhelyi Gábor , Pánics Gergely
Published: June 2013

Wakeboarding is a common water sport which may cause serious injuries. Especially joints are affected like anterior cruciate ligament tears, shoulder dislocations or sprained ankles and have frequently been described. In contrast, because of the largeness, length and strength of the femur, femoral shaft fractures are mainly caused by high-energy trauma in young people1in an ordinary population.

Among athletic population numerous studies evaluated stress fractures of the femur. According to their results this type of injury is relatively uncommon, and data from the literature suggest that they constitute only 2.8–7% of all sport related stress fractures.2There are only few data about high-energy trauma of the femoral shaft in sport although the incidence of acute femoral fractures is quite high in certain sports' like motocross (10%),3and alpine skiing among inpatient athletes.

Despite multiple reports in various sports of stress fracture of the femur and few publications of direct trauma, to our knowledge there is only one retrospective epidemiological study in wakeboarding, which reports femur fractures without differentiating between vehicle towed and cable wakeboarding. Our purpose is to illustrate two cases of high-energy related femoral shaft fractures in a male recreational cable wakeboarder and to review the pertinent literature.
SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR MIDPORTION ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY- A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: David Sina , Nauk Tanja , Lohrer Heinz
Published: June 2013

Background

Purpose of this systematic review was (i) to provide means of judgement to assess the benefits and tradeoffs related with different surgical treatments for midportion Achilles tendinopathy and (ii) to highlight possible alternative treatments for Achilles tendinopathy in cases when conservative treatments fail to reach patient satisfaction.

Methods

To identify studies about surgical treatment of patients with mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy, MEDLINE, Cochrane Database and Google databases (1945 till November 2012) were searched. After excluding several articles due to our selection criteria, the remaining articles were analyzed and evaluated using the Coleman Methodology Score. Additionally, success rate and the complication rate were determined.

Results

Seven studies met our inclusion criteria. These reports evaluated five different operative techniques. A total of 353 tendons were treated in 347 patients with open or minimally invasive techniques. The mean patient satisfaction was 71.4% (range 48% to 100%). The mean rate of minor complications was 4.6% (range 0% to 9.5%). The average of major complications was 3.3% (rang 0% to 14%). The studies assessing minimally invasive techniques reported an average success rate of 62% (range 49% to 75%), 2.7%, minor complications (range 0% to 8%), and no major complications. The open invasive procedures show an average success rate of 78% (range 52% to 86%), a minor complication rate of 6% (range 0% to 9.5%), and a major complication rate of 5.8% (range 0% to 12%).

Conclusions

All investigated operative methods were demonstrated to improve patients's conditions, though success rates varied between operative techniques. The complication rate differs between used techniques. Minimal invasive operative techniques seem to be related with fewer complications but open techniques report on higher success rates. Results vary between subjects according to sex and activity level.
THE HIDDEN DANGER OF ENDURANCE RACES: ANALGESIC USE AMONG ULTRAMARATHON RUNNERS
Authors: Scheer Bernd Volker , Valero Burgos Encarna
Published: June 2013

Background

Ultramarathon races have gained popularity in recent years and test the limits of human endurance. Runners often take analgesic medication during endurance foot races which may lead to gastrointestinal complications, altered renal function, and is associated with the development of hyponatremia and rhabdomyolysis.

Methods

We conducted a prospective survey study to gather data on prevalence, awareness, and reasons for consumption of analgesic medication used among ultramarathon runners during the Al Andalus Ultimate Trail 2012. Data were obtained post race using a direct-interview technique on standardized questionnaires.

Results

Thirty-two ultramarathon runners (26 male, 6 female, mean age 39.5±7.9, previous ultramarathon experience 7.7±9) participated in the study. The majority of runners (53%) did not take any form of analgesic; 44% said they had used them sometime during the race and training; and 3% had used them regularly. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) were most commonly used (60%) followed by Paracetamol (40%). The reasons for use were to reduce musculoskeletal pain (65%) or to combat fatigue (24%). All runners felt that taking an analgesic provided effective relief. Only 6 % of athletes obtained them through a prescription from their doctor. The main sources of recommendation were fellow runners and friends (56%), self initiative (22%) or coaches (6%). They were mainly obtained in shops (47%) and chemists (47%) and rarely on the Internet (6%). Two thirds of runners said they were aware of adverse effects, naming mainly renal failure (27%), gastrointestinal problems (18%) and liver failure (9%).

Conclusion

We found a high prevalence of analgesic medication use among ultramarathon runners. A third of runners were not aware of any adverse effects or dangers associated with analgesic consumption. Analgesic medication may have deleterious effects on the body and its performance. Pre-race education programmes may help increase awareness of effects, risks and appropriate use, and consumption.
THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF AEROBIC TRAINING VERSUS COMBINED TRAINING ON PHYSICAL FITNESS AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES RISK FACTORS IN OVERWEIGH ELDERLY MEN WITH HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Authors: Sousa Nelson , Mendes Romeu , Abrantes Catarina , Sampaio Jaime , Oliveira José
Published: June 2013

Background

Risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) tend to aggregate with aging. Several studies showed the effectiveness of exercise on physical fitness and cardiovascular health; however, research on the long-term effects of different modes of exercise in subjects at risk is still lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare different modes of exercise on physical fitness and CVD risk factors in overweigh elderly men with high blood pressure.

Methods

Forty-eight overweigh elderly men (BMI≥25 kg/m2) with high blood pressure (SBP≥130 and/or DBP≥85 mmHg) were randomly assigned to an aerobic training group (ATG, n=15, 71.7±4.7 years), a combined aerobic and resistance training group (CTG, n=16, 68.5±3.5 years), and a control group (n=17, 67.0±5.8 years). Both training programs were of moderate-to-vigorous intensity, three days per week for nine months. Six independent physical fitness tests (back scratch, chair sit-and-reach, 30-s chair stand, arm curl, 8-foot up-and-go, 6-min walk), body fat mass, fat-free mass, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured on five different occasions. The data were analyzed using a mixed-model analysis of variance.

Results

ANOVA indicated a significant main effect of group (p≤0.001) for all physical fitness tests, with significant differences between both training groups and control. However the ATG only improved flexibility (back scratch and chair sit-and-reach), whereas CTG improved all physical fitness components. ANOVA also identified a significant main effect of time for 8-foot up-and-go (p=0.031) in the CTG. A significant main effect of group (p=0.000) and time (p=0.029) was observed in body fat mass percentage, with a 2.3% decrease in CTG. A significant main effect of time was observed in SBP (p=0.005) with reductions of 15 mmHg and 24 mmHg (in ATG and CTG, respectively) and in DBP (p=0.011) with reductions of 6 mmHg and 12 mm Hg (in ATG and CTG, respectively).

Conclusions

Both training programs increased physical fitness, however the effects are more extensive with the combination of aerobic and resistance training. exercise training is a non-pharmacological safe and effective tool in reducing blood pressure, but larger changes are observed in the presence of body fat loss. Therefore, the combination of aerobic training with resistance training in the same program is more effective in the promotion of physical fitness and in the prevention of CVD risk factors than aerobic training alone.
THE EFFECT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH OF CHILDHOOD CANCER SURVIVORS
Authors: Azar Meital , Reuveny Ronen , Yalon Michal , Koren Avshalom , Constantini Naama
Published: June 2013

Introduction

In adult cancer patients, physical activity (PA) and fitness have been repeatedly shown to correlate with, and improve, many mental and physical measures including decreased cancer recurrence and mortality.

Childhood cancer survivors are at an increased risk of many medical and psychosocial conditions in adulthood, including low bone density, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, secondary tumors, and low quality of life. PA may alleviate all of these simultaneously, yet very few studies had been conducted in this filed to-date, and results were generally disappointing.

Aim

To measure the effect of physical activity on aerobic fitness, body composition, bone density, mood and quality of life of young childhood cancer survivors.

Methods

After screening 230 medical records of children from the follow-up clinic of the Hemato-Oncologic Department at the Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, 85 were deemed eligible by inclusion and exclusion criteria and invited to participate; 25 children agreed, and 23 entered the study. Ten were referred to an exercise group, which performed 2–3 exercise sessions per week for 6 months, and 13 maintained their usual lifestyle. At baseline and after 6 months, we measured aerobic fitness by cardio-pulmonary exercise testing; body composition and bone density by DEXA; and health-related quality of life and mood by validated questionnaires (PedsQL and CDI, respectively).

Results

Twenty-two children (96%) completed the study. At baseline, exercise and control groups differed only by a higher proportion of children with obesity in the exercise group, with marginal statistical significance (60% vs. 17%, p=0.07). All children had normal bone mineral density and quality of life measures.

Aerobic fitness improved only in the exercise group, with marginal statistical significance (p=0.068). No between-group differences were found in changes of BMI, BMI z-scores, body fat percentage, bone density indices, mood or quality of life.

After pooling both study groups together, significant correlations were found between the change in aerobic fitness and changes in lean body mass (r 2=0.806, p<0.001), femoral neck bone mineral density (r 2=0.604, p=0.022), bone mineral content (r 2=0.542, p=0.037), and social quality of life (r 2=0.572, p=0.016).

Conclusions

Exercise training improves aerobic fitness in childhood cancer survivors, yet the small sample size did not allow identification of additional expected benefits. Nevertheless, changes in fitness over 6 months were significantly correlated with measures of body composition, bone health and quality of life.

Childhood cancer survivors should be continuously encouraged to exercise, in order to both improve their immediate well-being, and to decrease their risks for potential late effects of pediatric cancer.

The study was funded by the Israel Cancer Association.
FACTOR ANALYSIS OF PRE-MATCH AND POST-MATCH SUBJECTIVE PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIENCES AND MENTAL STATES OF FOOTBALL REFEREES
Authors: Voborný Jiří , Zeman Tomáš , Blahutková Marie , Václavíková Dagmar
Published: June 2013

Background

For football referees supervision of a match means significant mental burden. During the match they have to deal with many disputable moments. Their decisions can evoke negative emotions both in players and spectators. Referees often cannot cope with such a burden and leave the match depressed.1The main goal of this research was to reveal some of the factors which contribute to such situations.

Methods

Subjective psychological experiences and mental states of 26 football referees were evaluated. These referees supervise football competitions in one of the 14 regions of the Czech Republic.

For evaluating their subjective psychological experiences and states the standardised questionnaire SUPSO2was used. The questionnaire was filled in twice: before the match and immediately after the match. Temperament of referees was evaluated using standardised Belov's temperament test.3To determine and describe potential causes of changes in mental states of football referees caused by a completed match factor analysis was used.

Results

Important factors which best reflect the dynamics of changes of subjective experiences and states of football referees were described. Most of the identified factors proved to be only consequences of the relationship among detected components of mental states assessed by the questionnaire SUPSO or were mainly related to the temperament of each referee. It was found, however, that one of these factors is strongly saturated by the referee's actual mental state before the match. This factor represents a significant agent altering referee's mental state during the given match.

Conclusions

Mental state of football referees just before a match determines partially the ability to manage psychological burden connected to the supervised match. Pre-match preparation should therefore focus more on a regulation of the referees' actual mental state (“pre-start mental state”). If the referees do not use regulation techniques leading to the elimination of negative mental states, it can result in stagnation or decline in their performance level.
ARTHROSCOPIC FINDINGS AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF SHOULDER INJURY IN THE YOUNG OVERHEAD ATHLETES
Authors: Gudas Rimtautas , Šiupšinskas Laimonas , Mauricienė Vilma
Published: June 2013

Research background and hypothesis

Overhead athletes are having higher risk to suffer from acute and chronic shoulder injuries.

Research aim

to evaluate shoulder complex functional characteristics of the overhead and non-overhead young athletes before and 2 years after the concomitant arthroscopic type II superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) and partial–thickness rotator cuff (PTRC) repair and to present specific rehabilitation guidelines needed for successful return to sports.

Methods

The sample of the research included 38 male athletes: overhead (n=19) and non-overhead (n=19) athletes. All participants underwent concomitant arthroscopic type II SLAP and PTRC repair and were available for review at a minimum of 2 year after surgery. Shoulder range of motion was measured with goniometer. Constant score was used for evaluation of the shoulder function's quality.

Results

Function of the shoulder complex had higher increase in non-overhead group (p<0.05). Constant score 2 years after surgery hadn't returned to optimal level. Shoulder flexion and internal rotation ROM in both groups and external rotation ROM of non-overhead athletes were the same as before surgery.

Discussion and conclusion

Functional characteristics of shoulder complex measured with Constant score of overhead and non-overhead athletes statistically significant increased 2 years after the arthroscopic surgery. Significant change of external rotation was established in overhead athletes: 2 years after surgery it was significantly smaller. Sports specific and diagnose-based rehabilitation is needed to decrease deficit in function of the shoulder complex after concomitant arthroscopic type II SLAP and PTRC repair.
EFFECT OF THE INTRODUCTION OF PAUSES BETWEEN REPETITIONS IN THE CAPACITY TO SUSTAIN MAXIMAL MAGNITUDES OF PEAK VELOCITY DURING BENCH PRESS
Authors: Valverde-Esteve Teresa , García-Manso Juan Manuel , Pablos-Monzó Ana , Pablos-Abella Carlos , Martín-González Juan Manuel , Rodríguez-Ruiz David
Published: June 2013

Background

An important number of sport modalities sustain its performance in the capacity to repeat efficiently a sport movement without fatigue. However, it is a fact that this mechanism will appear and affect the athletes' velocity magnitudes. The aim of this study was to compare the Peak Velocity (PV) in two protocols: Traditional Training (TT) vs. 20 s inter-repetition rest (IRR) with the Optimal Load (OL) for the maximal Power output (OL: 50.7±8.0% of 1-RM).

Methods

Fifteen male, physical education students, participated in this study (age: 23.1±1.6 years; height: 177.1±7.7 cm; mass: 76.2±9.2 kg; 1-RM: 93.8±14.3 kg; 1-RM/mass: 1.24±0.21). After the validation of the bench press 1-RM and determination of OL, all participants performed two sets of work: TT (1 set×continuous repetitions to failure) and IRR (1 set×15 repetitions with 20 s rest between repetitions).

Results

In the TT, VP decreased significantly from the third repetition (3.7±1.2 repetition) with loses of 17.8% (p≤0.014; ES: -0.53; IC: 0.046–0.243) (1st repetition: 0.75±0.18 m•s-1; 3rd repetition: 0.62±0.14 m•s-1). In IRR, VP magnitudes did not decrease significantly along the 15 repetitions (1st repetition: 0.67±0.23 m•s-1; 15th repetition: 0.64±0.12 m•s-1). Also, among our sample participants, there were no correlations found between VP and strength levels. Conclusions: While in TT fatigue is manifested in significant velocity loses, in IRR the movement mechanical efficiency and the mechanical parameters remain stable along the fifteen assessed repetitions. Consequently, we can conclude that the addition of inter-repetition rests (20 s) allows the performance of a higher number of movements without significant alterations or presence of fatigue along the set.