bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accumulation of Kv7.2 Channels in Putative Ectopic Transduction Zones of Mice Nerve-End Neuromas
Authors: Roza Carolina , Castillejo Sol , Lopez-García Jose A
Published: August 2011

Background:

Modulation of M-type currents has been proposed as a new strategy for the treatment of neuropathic pain due to their role in regulating neuronal excitability. Using electrophysiological techniques we showed previously that the opening of Kv7 channels with retigabine, blocked ectopic discharges from axotomized fibers but did not alter transduction at intact skin afferents. We hypothesized that after nerve damage, accumulation of Kv7 channels in afferent fibers may increase M-type currents which then acquired a more important role at regulating fiber excitability.

Findings:

In this study, we used an immunohistochemical approach to examine patterns of expression of Kv7.2 channels in afferent fibers after axotomy and compared them to patterns of expression of voltage gated Na+ channels (Nav) which are key electrogenic elements in peripheral axons known to accumulate in experimental and human neuromas. Axotomy induced an enlargement and narrowing of the nodes of Ranvier at the proximal end of the neuroma together with a dramatic demyelination and loss of structure at its distal end in which naked accumulations of Nav were present. In addition, axotomy also induced accumulations of Kv7.2 that co-localized with those of Nav channels.

Conclusions:

Whilst Nav channels are mandatory for initiation of action potentials, (i.e. responsible for the generation/propagation of ectopic discharges) an increased accumulation of Kv7.2 channels after axotomy may represent a homeostatic compensation to over excitability in axotomized fibers, opening a window for a peripheral action of M-current modulators under conditions of neuropathy.
Cellular Prion Protein Protects from Inflammatory and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Gadotti Vinicius M , Zamponi Gerald W
Published: August 2011

Cellular prion protein (PrPC) inhibits N-Methyl- D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Since NMDA receptors play an important role in the transmission of pain signals in the dorsal horn of spinal cord, we thus wanted to determine if PrPC null mice show a reduced threshold for various pain behaviours.

We compared nociceptive thresholds between wild type and PrPC null mice in models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain, in the presence and the absence of a NMDA receptor antagonist. 2-3 months old male PrPC null mice exhibited an MK-801 sensitive decrease in the paw withdrawal threshold in response both mechanical and thermal stimuli. PrPC null mice also exhibited significantly longer licking/biting time during both the first and second phases of formalin-induced inflammation of the paw, which was again prevented by treatment of the mice with MK-801, and responded more strongly to glutamate injection into the paw. Compared to wild type animals, PrPC null mice also exhibited a significantly greater nociceptive response (licking/biting) after intrathecal injection of NMDA. Sciatic nerve ligation resulted in MK-801 sensitive neuropathic pain in wild-type mice, but did not further augment the basal increase in pain behaviour observed in the null mice, suggesting that mice lacking PrPC may already be in a state of tonic central sensitization. Altogether, our data indicate that PrPC exerts a critical role in modulating nociceptive transmission at the spinal cord level, and fit with the concept of NMDA receptor hyperfunction in the absence of PrPC.
Peritoneal dissemination of prostate cancer due to laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a case report
Authors: Hiyama Yoshiki , Kitamura Hiroshi , Takahashi Satoshi , Masumori Naoya , Shindo Tetsuya , Tsujiwaki Mitsuhiro , Mitsuhashi Tomoko , Hasegawa Tadashi , Tsukamoto Taiji
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Peritoneal dissemination with no further metastases of prostate cancer is very rare, with only three cases reported in the available literature. We report the first case of iatrogenic peritoneal dissemination due to laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Case Presentation

A 59-year-old Japanese man underwent laparoscopic radical prostatectomy for clinical T2bN0M0 prostate cancer, and the pathological diagnosis was pT3aN0 Gleason 3+4 adenocarcinoma with a negative surgical margin. Salvage radiation therapy was performed since his serum prostate-specific antigen remained at a measurable value. After the radiation, he underwent castration, followed by combined androgen blockade with estramustine phosphate and dexamethasone as each treatment was effective for only a few months to a year. Nine years after the laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, computed tomography revealed a peritoneal tumor, although no other organ metastasis had been identified until then. He died six months after the appearance of peritoneal metastasis. An autopsy demonstrated peritoneal dissemination of the prostate cancer without any other metastasis.

Conclusion

Physicians should take into account metastasis to unexpected sites. Furthermore, we suggest that meticulous care be taken not to disseminate cancer cells to the peritoneum during laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.
Evaluation of real-time PCR of patient pleural effusion for diagnosis of tuberculosis
Authors: Rosso Franciele , Michelon Candice T , Sperhacke Rosa D , Verza Mirela , Olival Liliane , Conde Marcus B , Guerra Renata L , Zaha Arnaldo , Rossetti Maria LR
Published: August 2011

Background

Pleural tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis often requires invasive procedures such as pleural biopsy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the IS 6110 sequence of M. tuberculosis in pleural fluid specimens as a rapid and non-invasive test for pleural TB diagnosis.

Findings

For this cross-sectional study, 150 consecutive patients with pleural effusion diagnosed by chest radiography, who were referred for diagnostic thoracocentesis and pleural biopsy and met eligibility criteria, had a pleural fluid specimen submitted for real-time PCR testing. Overall, 98 patients had pleural TB and 52 had pleural effusion secondary to other disease. TB diagnosis was obtained using acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear or culture for mycobacteria and/or histopathologic examination in 94 cases and by clinical findings in 4 cases. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of PCR testing for pleural TB diagnosis were 42.8% (95% CI 38.4 - 44.8), 94.2% (95% CI 85.8 - 98.0), 93.3% (95% CI 83.6 - 97.7), and 48.5% (95% CI 44.2 - 50.4), respectively. The real-time PCR test improved TB detection from 30.6% to 42.9% when compared to AFB smear and culture methods performed on pleural fluid specimens, although the best sensitivity was achieved by combining the results of culture and histopathology of pleural tissue specimens.

Conclusion

The real-time PCR test of pleural fluid specimens is a useful and non-invasive additional assay for fast diagnosis of pleural TB.
CMV retinitis screening and treatment in a resource‐poor setting: three‐year experience from a primary care HIV/AIDS programme in Myanmar
Authors: Tun NiNi , London Nikolas , Kyaw Moe Kyaw , Smithuis Frank , Ford Nathan , Margolis Todd , Drew W Lawrence , Lewallen Susan , Heiden David
Published: August 2011

Background

Cytomegalovirus retinitis is a neglected disease in resource‐poor settings, in part because of the perceived complexity of care and because ophthalmologists are rarely accessible. In this paper, we describe a pilot programme of CMV retinitis management by non‐ophthalmologists. The programme consists of systematic screening of all high‐risk patients (CD4 <100 cells/mm3) by AIDS clinicians using indirect ophthalmoscopy, and treatment of all patients with active retinitis by intravitreal injection of ganciclovir. Prior to this programme, CMV retinitis was not routinely examined for, or treated, in Myanmar.

Methods

This is a retrospective descriptive study. Between November 2006 and July 2009, 17 primary care AIDS clinicians were trained in indirect ophthalmoscopy and diagnosis of CMV retinitis; eight were also trained in intravitreal injection. Evaluation of training by a variety of methods documented high clinical competence. Systematic screening of all high‐risk patients (CD4 <100 cells/mm3) was carried out at five separate AIDS clinics throughout Myanmar.

Results

A total of 891 new patients (1782 eyes) were screened in the primary area (Yangon); the majority of patients were male (64.3%), median age was 32 years, and median CD4 cell count was 38 cells/mm3. CMV retinitis was diagnosed in 24% (211/891) of these patients. Bilateral disease was present in 36% of patients. Patients with active retinitis were treated with weekly intravitreal injection of ganciclovir, with patients typically receiving five to seven injections per eye. A total of 1296 injections were administered.

Conclusions

A strategy of management of CMV retinitis at the primary care level is feasible in resource‐poor settings. With appropriate training and support, CMV retinitis can be diagnosed and treated by AIDS clinicians (non‐ophthalmologists), just like other major opportunistic infections.
Long-term room temperature preservation of corpse soft tissue: an approach for tissue sample storage
Authors: Caputo Mariela , Bosio Luis A , Corach Daniel
Published: August 2011

Background

Disaster victim identification (DVI) represents one of the most difficult challenges in forensic sciences, and subsequent DNA typing is essential. Collected samples for DNA-based human identification are usually stored at low temperature to halt the degradation processes of human remains. We have developed a simple and reliable procedure for soft tissue storage and preservation for DNA extraction. It ensures high quality DNA suitable for PCR-based DNA typing after at least 1 year of room temperature storage.

Methods

Fragments of human psoas muscle were exposed to three different environmental conditions for diverse time periods at room temperature. Storage conditions included: (a) a preserving medium consisting of solid sodium chloride (salt), (b) no additional substances and (c) garden soil. DNA was extracted with proteinase K/SDS followed by organic solvent treatment and concentration by centrifugal filter devices. Quantification was carried out by real-time PCR using commercial kits. Short tandem repeat (STR) typing profiles were analysed with 'expert software'.

Results

DNA quantities recovered from samples stored in salt were similar up to the complete storage time and underscored the effectiveness of the preservation method. It was possible to reliably and accurately type different genetic systems including autosomal STRs and mitochondrial and Y-chromosome haplogroups. Autosomal STR typing quality was evaluated by expert software, denoting high quality profiles from DNA samples obtained from corpse tissue stored in salt for up to 365 days.

Conclusions

The procedure proposed herein is a cost efficient alternative for storage of human remains in challenging environmental areas, such as mass disaster locations, mass graves and exhumations. This technique should be considered as an additional method for sample storage when preservation of DNA integrity is required for PCR-based DNA typing.
Analysis of EpCAM positive cells isolated from sentinel lymph nodes of breast cancer patients identifies subpopulations of cells with distinct transcription profiles
Authors: Tveito Siri , Andersen Kristin , Kåresen Rolf , Fodstad Øystein
Published: August 2011

Introduction

The presence of tumor cells in the axillary lymph nodes is the most important prognostic factor in early stage breast cancer. However, the optimal method for sentinel lymph node (SLN) examination is still sought and currently many different protocols are employed. To examine two approaches for tumor cell detection we performed, in sequence, immunomagnetic enrichment and RT-PCR analysis on SLN samples from early stage breast cancer patients. This allowed us to compare findings based on the expression of cell surface proteins with those based on detection of intracellular transcripts.

Methods

Enrichment of EpCAM and Mucin 1 expressing cells from fresh SLN samples was achieved using magnetic beads coated with the appropriate antibodies. All resulting cell fractions were analyzed by RT-PCR using four chosen breast epithelial markers (hMAM, AGR2, SBEM, TFF1). Gene expression was further analyzed using RT-PCR arrays and markers for epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Results

Both EpCAM and Mucin 1 enriched for the epithelial-marker expressing cells. However, EpCAM-IMS identified epithelial cells in 71 SLNs, whereas only 35 samples were positive with RT-PCR targeting breast epithelial transcripts. Further analysis of EpCAM positive but RT-PCR negative cell fractions showed that they had increased expression of MMPs, repressors of E-cadherin, SPARC and vimentin, all transcripts associated with the process of epithelial to mesenchymal transition.

Conclusions

The EpCAM IMS-assay detected tumor cells with epithelial and mesenchymal-like characteristics, thus proving to be a more robust marker than pure epithelial derived biomarkers. This finding has clinical implications, as most methods for SLN analysis today rely on the detection of epithelial transcripts or proteins.
Lung sonography and recruitment in patients with early acute respiratory distress syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Stefanidis Konstantinos , Dimopoulos Stavros , Tripodaki Elli-Sophia , Vitzilaios Konstantinos , Politis Panagiotis , Piperopoulos Ploutarchos , Nanas Serafim
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Bedside lung sonography is a useful imaging tool to assess lung aeration in critically ill patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of lung sonography in estimating the nonaerated area changes in the dependent lung regions during a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) trial of patients with early acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

Ten patients (mean ± standard deviation (SD): age 64 ± 7 years, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score 21 ± 4) with early ARDS on mechanical ventilation were included in the study. Transthoracic sonography was performed in all patients to depict the nonaerated area in the dependent lung regions at different PEEP settings of 5, 10 and 15 cm H2O. Lung sonographic assessment of the nonaerated lung area and arterial blood gas analysis were performed simultaneously at the end of each period. A control group of five early ARDS patients matched for APACHE II score was also included in the study.

Results

The nonaerated areas in the dependent lung regions were significantly reduced during PEEP increases from 5 to 10 to 15 cm H2O (27 ± 31 cm2 to 20 ± 24 cm2 to 11 ± 12 cm2, respectively; P < 0.01). These changes were associated with a significant increase in arterial oxygen partial pressure (74 ± 15 mmHg to 90 ± 19 mmHg to 102 ± 26 mmHg; P < 0.001, respectively). No significant changes were observed in the nonaerated areas in the dependent lung regions in the control group.

Conclusions

In this study, we show that transthoracic lung sonography can detect the nonaerated lung area changes during a PEEP trial of patients with early ARDS. Thus, transthoracic lung sonography might be considered as a useful clinical tool in the management of ARDS patients.
Manual hyperinflation partly prevents reductions of functional residual capacity in cardiac surgical patients - a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Paulus Frederique , Veelo Denise P , de Nijs Selma B , Beenen Ludo FM , Bresser Paul , de Mol Bas AJM , Binnekade Jan M , Schultz Marcus J
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Cardiac surgery is associated with post-operative reductions of functional residual capacity (FRC). Manual hyperinflation (MH) aims to prevent airway plugging, and as such could prevent the reduction of FRC after surgery. The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of MH on post-operative FRC of cardiac surgical patients.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial of patients after elective coronary artery bypass graft and/or valve surgery admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital. Patients were randomly assigned to a "routine MH group" (MH was performed within 30 minutes after admission to the ICU and every 6 hours thereafter, and before tracheal extubation), or a "control group" (MH was performed only if perceptible (audible) sputum was present in the larger airways causing problems with mechanical ventilation, or if oxygen saturation (SpO2) dropped below 92%). The primary endpoint was the reduction of FRC from the day before cardiac surgery to one, three, and five days after tracheal extubation. Secondary endpoints were SpO2 (at similar time points) and chest radiograph abnormalities, including atelectasis (at three days after tracheal extubation).

Results

A total of 100 patients were enrolled. Patients in the routine MH group showed a decrease of FRC on the first post-operative day to 71% of the pre-operative value, versus 57% in the control group (P = 0.002). Differences in FRC became less prominent over time; differences between the two study groups were no longer statistically significant at Day 5. There were no differences in SpO2 between the study groups. Chest radiographs showed more abnormalities (merely atelectasis) in the control group compared to patients in the routine MH group (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

MH partly prevents the reduction of FRC in the first post-operative days after cardiac surgery.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial Register (NTR): NTR1384. http://www.trialregister.nl
Hemodynamic monitoring and management in patients undergoing high risk surgery: a survey among North American and European anesthesiologists
Authors: Cannesson Maxime , Pestel Gunther , Ricks Cameron , Hoeft Andreas , Perel Azriel
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Several studies have demonstrated that perioperative hemodynamic optimization has the ability to improve postoperative outcome in high-risk surgical patients. All of these studies aimed at optimizing cardiac output and/or oxygen delivery in the perioperative period. We conducted a survey with the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the European Society of Anaesthesiology (ESA) to assess current hemodynamic management practices in patients undergoing high-risk surgery in Europe and in the United States.

Methods

A survey including 33 specific questions was emailed to 2,500 randomly selected active members of the ASA and to active ESA members.

Results

Overall, 368 questionnaires were completed, 57.1% from ASA and 42.9% from ESA members. Cardiac output is monitored by only 34% of ASA and ESA respondents (P = 0.49) while central venous pressure is monitored by 73% of ASA respondents and 84% of ESA respondents (P < 0.01). Specifically, the pulmonary artery catheter is being used much more frequently in the US than in Europe in the setup of high-risk surgery (85.1% vs. 55.3% respectively, P < 0.001). Clinical experience, blood pressure, central venous pressure, and urine output are the most widely indicators of volume expansion. Finally, 86.5% of ASA respondents and 98.1% of ESA respondents believe that their current hemodynamic management could be improved.

Conclusions

In conclusion, these results point to a considerable gap between the accumulating evidence about the benefits of perioperative hemodynamic optimization and the available technologies that may facilitate its clinical implementation, and clinical practices in both Europe and the United States.
Outcome Analyses After the First Admission to an Intensive Care Unit in Patients With Advanced Cancer Referred to a Phase I Clinical Trials Program
Authors: Fu Siqing , Hong David S. , Naing Aung , Wheler Jennifer , Falchook Gerald , Wen Sijin , Howard Adrienne , Barber Diane , Nates Joseph , Price Kristen , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This study assessed outcomes of individuals with advanced cancer who required admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) after referral for an early clinical trial because they did not respond to conventional therapy.

Patients and Methods

Outcome analyses were conducted for 212 consecutive patients admitted to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center ICU after being seen in the phase I clinic starting on May 1, 2007. All data were obtained by a review of electronic medical records of patients.

Results

The median survival of 212 patients with advanced cancer referred to phase I care after the initial ICU admission was 3.2 weeks (95% CI, 2.5 to 4.9 weeks). Patients who underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) succumbed within a median survival of 1 day (75% and 25% estimated survival of 1 and 3 days, respectively). Patients admitted for a postsurgical intervention did better than patients admitted for a nonsurgical intervention (median survival, 21.5 versus 2.1 weeks; P < .0001). The multivariate analysis revealed that a nonsurgical intervention, hypoalbuminemia, and higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores were associated with poor overall survival.

Conclusion

The outcome of patients in a phase I clinic after initial ICU admission was poor, particularly when admission was for a nonsurgical intervention and/or when CPR was needed.
Role of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT 2) Inhibitors in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Abdul-Ghani Muhammad A. , Norton Luke , DeFronzo Ralph A.
Published: August 2011

Hyperglycemia plays an important role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus, i.e., glucotoxicity, and it also is the major risk factor for microvascular complications. Thus, effective glycemic control will not only reduce the incidence of microvascular complications but also correct some of the metabolic abnormalities that contribute to the progression of the disease. Achieving durable tight glycemic control is challenging because of progressive β-cell failure and is hampered by increased frequency of side effects, e.g., hypoglycemia and weight gain. Most recently, inhibitors of the renal sodium-glucose cotransporter have been developed to produce glucosuria and reduce the plasma glucose concentration. These oral antidiabetic agents have the potential to improve glycemic control while avoiding hypoglycemia, to correct the glucotoxicity, and to promote weight loss. In this review, we will summarize the available data concerning the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of this novel antidiabetic therapeutic approach.
Skeletal Muscle Regeneration in Mice Is Stimulated by Local Overexpression of V1a-Vasopressin Receptor
Authors: Toschi Angelica , Severi Annalisa , Coletti Dario , Catizone Angela , Musarò Antonio , Molinaro Mario , Nervi Clara , Adamo Sergio , Scicchitano Bianca Maria
Published: August 2011

Skeletal muscle has a remarkable capacity to regenerate after mechanical or pathological injury. We show that the V1a receptor (V1aR) for vasopressin, a potent myogenic-promoting factor that stimulates differentiation and hypertrophy in vitro, is expressed in mouse skeletal muscle and modulated during regeneration after experimental injury. We used gene delivery by electroporation to overexpress the myc-tagged vasopressin V1aR in specific muscles, thus sensitizing them to circulating vasopressin. The correct localization on the surface of the fibers of the recombinant product was demonstrated by confocal immunofluorescence directed against the myc tag. V1aR overexpression dramatically enhanced regeneration. When compared with mock-transfected controls, V1aR overexpressing muscles exhibited significantly accelerated activation of satellite cells and increased expression of differentiation markers. Downstream of V1aR activation, calcineurin was strongly up-regulated and stimulated the expression of IL-4, a potent mediator of myogenic cell fusion. The central role of calcineurin in mediating V1aR-dependent myogenesis was also demonstrated by using its specific inhibitor, cyclosporine A. This study identifies skeletal muscle as a physiological target of hormones of the vasopressin family and reveals a novel in vivo role for vasopressin-dependent pathways. These findings unveil several steps, along a complex signaling pathway, that may be exploited as potential targets for the therapy of diseases characterized by altered muscle homeostasis and regeneration.
Ventral “Spinal Epidural Meningeal Cysts”—Not Epidural and Not Cysts? Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ball Bret Gene , Luetmer Patrick H. , Giannini Caterina , Mokri Bahram , Kumar Neeraj , Piepgras David G.
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND:

Ventral spinal epidural meningeal cysts are rare entities for which the pathogenesis is poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE:

We present the clinical, radiographic, surgical, and pathologic findings of 4 patients with extensive ventral spinal epidural meningeal cysts and review the relevant literature. In addition, we discuss a suspected mechanism for pathogenesis.

METHODS:

Four patients with anterior spinal epidural meningeal cysts are retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS:

Ventral spinal epidural meningeal cysts are often large, extending on average from C2 to L1 in our series. Patients typically present with a prolonged course of symptoms and signs, including segmental muscle weakness and atrophy, subtle myelopathy, mild to moderate spinal pain, and headache. Histopathologic analysis of the cyst wall demonstrates collagenous tissue consistent with dura but without arachnoid features. Dynamic computed tomographic myelography is the study of choice for localization of the primary dural defect. Patient symptoms and neurological deficits routinely improve after appropriate surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION:

Diverse signs and symptoms herald the presentation of ventral spinal meningoceles. Intraoperative, radiographic, and pathological findings are all suggestive of an intradural dissection as the etiology. Hence, they may be more appropriately named “ventral spinal intradural dissecting meningoceles.” Definitive treatment involves identification and obliteration of the dural defect.
Evaluation of pneumonia in children: comparison of MRI with fast imaging sequences at 1.5T with chest radiographs
Authors: Yikilmaz Ali , Koc Ali , Coskun Abdulhakim , Ozturk Mustafa K , Mulkern Robert V , Lee Edward Y
Published: August 2011

Background

Although there has been a study aimed at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation of pneumonia in children at a low magnetic field (0.2T), there is no study which assessed the efficacy of MRI, particularly with fast imaging sequences at 1.5T, for evaluating pneumonia in children.

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of chest MRI with fast imaging sequences at 1.5T for evaluating pneumonia in children by comparing MRI findings with those of chest radiographs.

Material and Methods

This was an Institutional Review Board-approved, HIPPA-compliant prospective study of 40 consecutive pediatric patients (24 boys, 16 girls; mean age 7.3 years ± 6.6 years) with pneumonia, who underwent PA and lateral chest radiographs followed by MRI within 24 h. All MRI studies were obtained in axial and coronal planes with two different fast imaging sequences: T1-weighted FFE (Fast Field Echo) (TR/TE: 83/4.6) and T2-weigthed B-FFE M2D (Balanced Fast Field Echo Multiple 2D Dimensional) (TR/TE: 3.2/1.6). Two experienced pediatric radiologists reviewed each chest radiograph and MRI for the presence of consolidation, necrosis/abscess, bronchiectasis, and pleural effusion. Chest radiograph and MRI findings were compared with Kappa statistics.

Results

All consolidation, lung necrosis/abscess, bronchiectasis, and pleural effusion detected with chest radiographs were also detected with MRI. There was statistically substantial agreement between chest radiographs and MRI in detecting consolidation (k = 0.78) and bronchiectasis (k = 0.72) in children with pneumonia. The agreement between chest radiographs and MRI was moderate for detecting necrosis/abscess (k = 0.49) and fair for detecting pleural effusion (k = 0.30).

Conclusion

MRI with fast imaging sequences is comparable to chest radiographs for evaluating underlying pulmonary consolidation, bronchiectasis, necrosis/abscess, and pleural effusion often associated with pneumonia in children.
Integrating Long-Term and Short-Term Contracting in Beef Supply Chains
Authors: Boyabatlı Onur , Kleindorfer Paul R. , Koontz Stephen R.
Published: August 2011

This paper analyzes the optimal procurement, processing, and production decisions of a meat-processing company (hereafter, a “packer”) in a beef supply chain. The packer processes fed cattle to produce two beef products, program (premium) boxed beef and commodity boxed beef, in fixed proportions, but with downward substitution of the premium product for the commodity product. The packer can source input (fed cattle) from a contract market, where long-term contracts are signed in advance of the required delivery time, and from a spot market on the spot day. Contract prices are taken to be of a general window form, linear in the spot price but capped by upper and lower limits on realized contract price. Our analysis provides managerial insights on the interaction of window contract terms with processing options. We show that the packer benefits from a low correlation between the spot price and product market uncertainties, and this is independent of the form of the window contract. Although the expected revenues from processing increase in spot price variability, the overall impact on profitability depends on the parameters of the window contract. Using a calibration based on the report by the GIPSA (Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration. 2007. GIPSA livestock and meat marketing study, vol. 3: Fed cattle and beef industries. Report, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC), this paper elucidates for the first time the value of long-term contracting as a complement to spot sourcing in the beef supply chain. Our comparative statics results provide some rules of thumb for the packer for the strategic management of the procurement portfolio. In particular, we show that higher variability (higher spot price variability, product market variability, and correlation) increases the profits of the packer, but decreases the reliance on the contract market relative to the spot market.

This paper was accepted by Yossi Aviv, operations management.
Robin's Theorem, Primes, and a New Elementary Reformulation of the Riemann Hypothesis
Authors: Caveney Geoffrey , Nicolas Jean-Louis , Sondow Jonathan
Published: August 2011

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Characterization of interfacial adhesion in binary polymer blends: a new approach based on positron lifetime study
Authors: Ranganathaiah Chikkakuntappa
Published: August 2011

A new method of characterizing the adhesion at the interface of partially miscible and immiscible binary polymer blends based on free volume concept is described here. The efficacy of the method is tested in four binary polymer blend systems namely PS/PMMA, PVC/EVA, PP/NBR and PVC/SAN. The usefulness of hydrodynamic interaction is exploited which is derived from free volume data to understand the changes at the interface. We understand that if the adhesion at the interface is good it exhibits large negative values for hydrodynamic interaction parameter α, a measure of excess friction at the interface. The thermal properties (indicated by Tg) also improve for this condition. To show that the method is sensitive to the changes at the interface, we modified the interface through microwave and e-beam irradiation and found from α characterization, that blends with polar groups exhibit interface stabilization for microwave irradiation while e-beam is good for blends with no polar or weak polar groups.
Performance enhancement of polysulfone ultrafiltration membrane by blending with polyurethane hydrophilic polymer
Authors: Arthanareeswaran Gangasalam , Velu S. , Muruganandam Loganathan
Published: August 2011

The aim of this work was to study the effect of two solvents such as N,N′-dimethylformamide (DMF) and dimethylacetamide (DMAc) used in the production of polysulfone (PSf) and polyurethane (PU) blend ultrafiltration membranes, influence permeability and selectivity. PSf/PU membranes were prepared by the phase inversion method using polymer concentrations of 100/0, 20/80 and 0/100 wt%. Permeation performance of the prepared membranes was evaluated in terms of pure water flux, water content and hydraulic resistance. It was found that the membrane composed of 20/80 wt% of PSf/PU in the presence of DMAc showed a water flux of 60.5 l m-2h-1 under transmembrane pressure of 345 kPa, and the water flux of 23.5 l m-2h-1 for 20/80 wt% of PSf/PU in the presence of DMF. With increasing the polarity of DMAc in the casting solution, an increase in porous layer thickness was observed, and then a good water flux of membranes can be obtained. It was found that the polar solvent caused the rapidly demixing of casting solution in coagulation bath and formed porous asymmetric membranes with defective skin layer. The permeation rates of proteins were measured with different molecular weights of the proteins.
Synthesis and characterization of modified poly(methyl methacrylate)/Al2O3nanocomposites as denture resins
Authors: Saboktakin Mohammad Reza , Tabatabaie Roya M. , Maharramov Abel , Ramazanov Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2011

Hybrid materials, which consist of organic-inorganic materials, are of profound interest owing to their unexpected synergistically derived properties. Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles/polymer composites have been produced using a one-system polymer synthesis. The linear polymer, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA,MW=15,000 g/mol) is applied for the stabilization of Al2O3nanoparticles. Fourier transfer infrared analysis data and scanning electron microscopy image reveal that the core shell structure of the Al2O3/PMMA nanocomposite has been synthesized. The ratio of concentration of the capping polymer material to the concentration of the Al2O3precursor could control the size of Al2O3nanoparticles. With specific concentration of the reductant, the core-shell nanostructure could be fluctuated in order.
Synthesis, characterization and corrosion protection properties of polyN-(p-bromophenyl)-2-methacrylamide-co-glycidyl methacrylate on low nickel stainless steel
Authors: Safiullah Sakvai Mohammed , Thirumoolan Deivasigamani , Basha Kottur Anver , Govindaraju K. Mani , Gopi Dhanraj , Kanai Tapan , Samui Asit Baran
Published: August 2011

The synthesis of copolymers from different feed ratios of N-(p-bromophenyl)-2- methacrylamide (PBPMA) and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was achieved by using free radical solution polymerization technique and characterized using FT-IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The thermal stability of the synthesized copolymers was studied using thermo-gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The molecular weight of the copolymer is determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The corrosion performances of low nickel stainless steel specimens dip coated with different composition of copolymers were investigated in 0.5 M H2SO4 using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) techniques. The polarization and impedance measurements showed different corrosion protection efficiency with change in composition of the copolymers. It was found that the corrosion protection properties are owing to the barrier effect of the polymer layer covered on the low nickel stainless steel surfaces. However, it is observed that the mole ratio of PBPMA and GMA plays a major role in the protective nature of the copolymer.
Kinetic parameters estimation of ring-opening poly(lactic acid) polymerization by modeling and simulation
Authors: Mehta Rajeev , Kumar Vineet , Upadhyay Sidh Nath
Published: August 2011

The modeling of ring-opening polymerization of lactide to poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has been carried out. Carothers first synthesized PLA in 1932. Since then, hundreds of research papers and patents have appeared in the literature. However, there is a lack of data concerning the rate constants for initiation, propagation and termination steps of PLA polymerization, except some data about the apparent rate constant. This work investigates, theoretically, the individual rate constants using a simple numerical technique. The progress of lactide polymerization can be modeled by assuming a ring opening reaction mechanism comprising chain initiation, chain propagation, and chain termination. The simulator developed, based on the solutionof differential equations corresponding to the above-mentioned kinetic scheme, Generates a detailed molecular weight distribution that can be used to estimate average molecular weights (or average degree of polymerization) vs. polymerization time curves. These simulated curves, on matching with the reported experimental data (for different catalysts), yield the absolute values of rate constants. The values have been determined for zinc lactate. Rate constants could be determined by using the molecular weight and the polydispersity vs. polymerization data. This methodology offers greater opportunity for capturing high, non-equilibrium polymer yield through appropriately timed termination of the polymerization reaction.
Debated Whiteness amid World Events: Mexican and Mexican American Subjectivity and the U.S.' Relationship with the Americas, 1924–1936
Authors: Calderón-Zaks Michael
Published: August 2011

By the 1920s, anti-Mexican campaigns in the United States had become a major liability for US interests in the Americas, as rival imperial powers attempted to exploit growing anti-American sentiments in Mexico and Latin America against American imperialism. The U.S. State Department sought to curtail animosity in Latin America by contesting discriminatory domestic practices that angered elite Mexicans and Mexican-American leaders who identified as white. After blocking eastern and southern European and Japanese immigration in the 1924 National Origins Act, the eugenics movement turned its attention to excluding Mexicans from entering the US. When legislative attempts at restriction failed because they conflicted with national and international commercial interests, non-legislative avenues were sought, including the Census and the courts. The 1930 Census was the only census that categorized Mexicans as a separate “race.” In the context of a changing racial formation in the United States, this unique category was reversed in 1936 due to Mexican-American leaders leveraging the fragility of the “Good Neighbor Policy” to force the Federal government into action.
Alleged Cases of Vaccine Encephalopathy Rediagnosed Years Later as Dravet Syndrome
Authors: Reyes Ila S. , Hsieh David T. , Laux Linda C. , Wilfong Angus A.
Published: August 2011

Dravet syndrome is a rare epileptic encephalopathy linked to mutations in SCN1A (neuronal sodium channel α1 subunit) and characterized by an onset in infancy with polymorphous seizure types and developmental decline. It was reported recently that a proportion of patients previously diagnosed with alleged vaccine encephalopathy might possess SCN1A mutations and clinical histories that enabled a diagnosis of Dravet syndrome, but these results have not been replicated. We present here the cases of 5 children who presented for epilepsy care with presumed parental diagnoses of alleged vaccine encephalopathy caused by pertussis vaccinations in infancy. Their conditions were all rediagnosed years later, with the support of genetic testing, as Dravet syndrome. We hope that these cases will raise awareness of Dravet syndrome among health care providers who care for children and adolescents and aid in earlier recognition and diagnosis.
Quality-of-Care Indicators for Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Wang C. Jason , Kavanagh Patricia L. , Little Alison A. , Holliman Jaime Bruce , Sprinz Philippa G.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To develop a set of quality-of-care indicators for the management of children with sickle cell disease (SCD) who are cared for in a variety of settings by addressing the broad spectrum of complications relevant to their illness.

METHODS:

We used the Rand/University of California Los Angeles appropriateness method, a modified Delphi method, to develop the indicators. The process included a comprehensive literature review with ratings of the evidence and 2 rounds of anonymous ratings by an expert panel (nominated by leaders of various US academic societies and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute). The panelists met face-to-face to discuss each indicator in between the 2 rounds.

RESULTS:

The panel recommended 41 indicators that cover 18 topics; 17 indicators described routine health care maintenance, 15 described acute or subacute care, and 9 described chronic care. The panel identified 8 indicators most likely to have a large positive effect on improving quality of life and/or health outcomes for children with SCD, which covered 6 topics: timely assessment and treatment of pain and fever; comprehensive planning; penicillin prophylaxis; transfusion; and the transition to adult care.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children with SCD are at risk for serious morbidities and early mortality, yet efforts to assess and improve the quality of their care have been limited compared with other chronic childhood conditions. This set of 41 indicators can be used to assess quality of care and provide a starting point for quality-improvement efforts.
Use of a Pressure Guidewire in Fetal Cardiac Intervention for Critical Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Goldstein Bryan H. , Fifer Carlen G. , Armstrong Aimee K. , Gelehrter Sarah K. , Treadwell Marjorie C. , van de Ven Cosmas , Rocchini Albert P.
Published: August 2011

Fetal cardiac intervention for critical aortic stenosis (AS) with evolving hypoplastic left heart syndrome is performed in an attempt to maintain a biventricular circulation postnatally. The procedure has been hindered by technical challenges and poor candidate selection. We report here the novel use of a pressure guidewire during aortic valvuloplasty in a fetus at 21 weeks' gestation with critical AS and evolving hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Use of a pressure guidewire during fetal cardiac intervention offers several potential advantages over existing protocols. This technique augments fetal ultrasound as it relates to operator awareness of catheter and wire position (with continuous monitoring of pressure waveforms), improves on intraprocedural fetal hemodynamic monitoring and responsiveness to resuscitation, and provides a rich new data set of invasive fetal hemodynamics. This data set offers tremendous potential with regards to improving candidate selection and postintervention prognostication. In addition, we provide the first, to our knowledge, characterization of intracardiac pressures in a human fetus with congenital heart disease. Given the realized and potential benefits associated with this technique, use of a pressure guidewire may become standard of care for all fetal cardiac interventions.
Flags of holomorphic foliations
Authors: Mol Rogério S.
Published: August 2011

A flag of holomorphic foliations on a complex manifold M is an object consisting of a finite number of singular holomorphic foliations on M of growing dimensions such that the tangent sheaf of a fixed foliation is a subsheaf of the tangent sheaf of any of the foliations of higher dimension. We study some basic properties oft hese objects and, in , n > 3, we establish some necessary conditions for a foliation, we find bounds of lower dimension to leave invariant foliations of codimension one. Finally, still in  involving the degrees of polar classes of foliations in a flag.
Environmental changes in the western Amazônia: morphological framework, geochemistry, palynology and radiocarbon dating data
Authors: Horbe Adriana M.C. , Behling Hermann , Nogueira Afonso C.R. , Mapes Russell
Published: August 2011

The sediments from the Coari lake, a “terra firme” lake sculpted into Plio-Pleistocene deposits, and the Acará lake, a flooding-type lake developed on Quaternary sediments in the floodplain of the mid-Solimões river, in the western Amazônia, Brazil, were studied to investigate the environmental condition of their developing. This study includes mineral composition, geochemistry, Pb isotope, palinology, radiocarbon-age and morphological framework of the lakes obtained from SRTM satellite images. The geological and the environmental conditions in the two lakes are highly variable and suggest that their evolution reflect autogenic processes under humid rainforest condition. Although kaolinite, quartz, muscovite, illite, and smectite are the main minerals in both lakes, the geochemistry indicates distinct source, the Acará lake sediments have higher concentrations of Al2O3, Fe2O3, FeO, CaO, K2O, MgO, Na2O, P2O5, Ba, V, Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb, Sr, Li, Y and La and have more radiogenic Pb than the Coari lake sediments. The radiocarbon ages suggest that at 10160 yr BP the Coari lake started to be developed due to avulsion of the Solimões river, and the Acará lake was formed by the meander abandonment of Solimões river retaining its grass dominated shore at ca. 3710 yr BP.
Pesquisa em enfermagem no Brasil: problematizando a produção de conhecimentos
Authors: Rodrigues Rosa Maria , Bagnato Maria Helena Salgado
Published: August 2011

Esta pesquisa analisa aspectos de artigos publicados nos últimos cinco anos, em três periódicos de circulação nacional divulgadores de grande parte da produção de conhecimentos na enfermagem; identifica focos privilegiados e silenciados, problematizando questões centrais na produção de conhecimentos. Trabalhou-se com 811 resumos e suas respectivas notas de rodapé. Os dados foram tratados e organizados em tabelas. Há predominância de pesquisas voltadas para a área de assistência; temas concentrados no espaço hospitalar como saúde da criança e outros no espaço não hospitalar como saúde da mulher, HIV/AIDS e enfermagem psiquiátrica e saúde mental; a produção é desenvolvida geralmente por doutores e pós-graduandos, sendo as universidades públicas os principais locus de produção com apoio dos órgãos federais no financiamento das mesmas.
O movimento de reconsideração do ensino e da pesquisa em História da Enfermagem
Authors: Barreira Ieda de Alencar , Baptista Suely de Souza
Published: August 2011

O recorte temático deste trabalho é o movimento de reconsideração do ensino e da pesquisa na História da Enfermagem. Tal movimento é tomado como uma manifestação tardia do processo de aprimoramento do saber da enfermagem, mediada pelo desenvolvimento dos cursos de pós-graduação stricto sensu, ao final do século 20, quando se observou um despertar da enfermagem para a necessidade de buscar um equilíbrio entre a competência técnico-científica e a capacidade de crítica social e autocrítica profissional. Apresenta-se uma análise das possibilidades e limitações do ensino e da pesquisa em História da Enfermagem, bem como sua contribuição para o avanço da profissão e são discutidas as implicações do entendimento da História da Enfermagem como campo interdisciplinar.