bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance ofTerrestrialArthropods asSubsidies inLowlandNeotropicalRainForestStreamEcosystems
Authors: Small Gaston E. , Torres Pedro J. , Schweizer Lauren M. , Duff John H. , Pringle Catherine M.
Published: July 2012

The importance of terrestrial arthropods has been documented in temperate stream ecosystems, but little is known about the magnitude of these inputs in tropical streams. Terrestrial arthropods falling from the canopy of tropical forests may be an important subsidy to tropical stream food webs and could also represent an important flux of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in nutrient‐poor headwater streams. We quantified input rates of terrestrial insects in eight streams draining lowland tropical wet forest inCostaRica. In two focal headwater streams, we also measured capture efficiency by the fish assemblage and quantified terrestrially derivedN‐ andP‐excretion relative to stream nutrient uptake rates. Average input rates of terrestrial insects ranged from 5 to 41 mg dry mass/m2/d, exceeding previous measurements of aquatic invertebrate secondary production in these study streams, and were relatively consistent year‐round, in contrast to values reported in temperate streams. Terrestrial insects accounted for half of the diet of the dominant fish species,Priapicthys annectens. Although terrestrially derived fish excretion was found to be a small flux relative to measured nutrient uptake rates in the focal streams, the efficient capture and processing of terrestrial arthropods by fish made these nutrients available to the local stream ecosystem. This aquatic‐terrestrial linkage is likely being decoupled by deforestation in many tropical regions, with largely unknown but potentially important ecological consequences.
Can we really measure ƒNL from the galaxy power spectrum?
Authors: Roth Nina , Porciani Cristiano
Published: July 2012

The scale-dependent galaxy bias generated by primordial non-Gaussianity (PNG) can be used to detect and constrain deviations from standard single-field inflation. The strongest signal is expected in the local model for PNG, where the amplitude of non-Gaussianity can be expressed by a set of parameters (ƒNL, gNL, etc.). Current observational constraints from galaxy clustering on ƒNL and gNL assume that the others PNG parameters are vanishing. Using two sets of cosmological N-body simulations where both fNL and gNL are non-zero, we show that this strong assumption generally leads to biased estimates and spurious redshift dependencies of the parameters. Additionally, if the signs of ƒNL and gNL are opposite, the amplitude of the scale-dependent bias is reduced, possibly leading to a false null detection. Finally, we show that model selection techniques like the Bayesian evidence can (and should) be used to determine if more than one PNG parameter is required by the data.
Cystic fibrosis: A clinician's tool for management of care advancing into the adult population
Authors: Nast Deanna , Paniagua Carmen , Anderson Paula
Published: July 2012

Purpose: To discuss the role of the nurse practitioner in medical management of adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF).

Data sources: A systematic literature review was done by searching online databases: CINAHYL, OVID, and Medline. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) guidelines were reviewed. Tables were compiled for recommended screening and treatment for adult CF patients.

Conclusions: Comorbidities occur among adult CF patients and include: CF‐related diabetes (CFRD), fertility issues, CF liver disease (CFLD), and CF bone disease. Diabetes management is reviewed. Current fertility surgical treatments for males and recommendations for females are discussed. Ursodiol is the main treatment regimen for those affected. Bone disease and CF has multiple etiologies and the focus of treatment is based on appropriate vitamin D replacement and bisphosphonates. New standards for vitamin D replacement are discussed.

Implications for practice: Clinicians must be familiar with the current treatments and regimens of adults with CF including comorbidities. The CF adult population is expanding and care is extending beyond the CF clinic. More healthcare providers must be educated on the best practices of adult CF care. The importance of early identification and treatment of CF comorbidities cannot be overestimated.

To obtain CE credit for this activity, go to http://www.aanp.org and click on the CE Center. Locate the listing for this article and complete the post‐test. Follow the instructions to print your CE certificate.

Disclosures  The authors report no competing interests.
CT‐only planning for Gamma Knife radiosurgery in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia: Methodology and outcomes from a single institution
Authors: Attia Albert , Tatter Stephen B , Weller Michael , Marshall Kopriva , Lovato James F , Bourland J Daniel , Ellis Thomas L , McMullen Kevin P , Shaw Edward G , Chan Michael D
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) has been established as a safe and effective treatment option for trigeminal neuralgia. Some patients have contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the standard stereotactic imaging used for GKRS treatment planning. Computerized tomography (CT) imaging may be used as an alternative in this scenario. We sought to evaluate the outcomes of our patients treated using this technique.

Methods: Between August 2001 and November 2009, 19 patients with trigeminal neuralgia were treated with GKRS using CT‐only planning. The course of the trigeminal nerve was determined based upon anatomical landmarks when the nerve was not directly visualized on the treatment‐planning CT. Median dose used was 90 Gy (range 85–90 Gy). Follow‐up data based on Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain score and toxicity were obtained using electronic medical records and by telephone interview.

Results: With median follow‐up time of 18 months (range 4–36 months), improvement in quality of life after GKRS was reported in 17 of 19 patients. Freedom from BNI IV‐V pain relapse was 82% at 24 months. By 3 months post‐GKRS, 50% of patients were able to discontinue medications completely. Three patients reported numbness after GKRS; none of these patients described bothersome numbness. Use of contrast did not affect treatment outcome (P = 0.31).

Conclusions: Stereotactic CT‐only treatment planning of GKRS for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia is feasible and safe. Further studies are necessary to determine if the long‐term durability of pain relief is comparable to that of MRI‐based GKRS planning.
Update on biologic therapies in ankylosing spondylitis: a literature review
Authors: Goh Leslie , Samanta Ash
Published: July 2012

Aim

The present paper aims to review the recent advances in diagnosis and management of ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Method

Medline and abstracts submitted to the recent European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) congress were searched to obtain quality‐controlled information on the management of AS.

Results

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows the diagnosis of AS to be made in the pre‐radiographic stage. The Assessment in Spondylarthritis International Society recommendations for the management of AS have been modified so that patients with non‐radiographic spondyloarthritis (SpA) can now be considered for biological therapy. The ‘older’ anti‐tumour necrosis factor (TNF) continued to be effective in longer‐term studies. Studies with longer duration of follow‐up have shown that some patients with pre‐radiographic SpA entered into prolonged drug‐free remission. It is likely that in the foreseeable future, more AS patients will be treated with biological therapies at an earlier stage of the disease. New biologic therapies, golimumab and secukinumab, are looking promising in improving the signs and symptoms of AS, at least in the short‐term.

Conclusion

Longer‐term studies of AS patients treated with infliximab, etanercept and adalimumab continued to show a good clinical response. There is a need for more long‐term studies to examine the longitudinal efficacy of golimumab and secukinumab in AS.
Embodiment in Social Psychology
Authors: Meier Brian P. , Schnall Simone , Schwarz Norbert , Bargh John A.
Published: July 2012

Psychologists are increasingly interested in embodiment based on the assumption that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are grounded in bodily interaction with the environment. We examine how embodiment is used in social psychology, and we explore the ways in which embodied approaches enrich traditional theories. Although research in this area is burgeoning, much of it has been more descriptive than explanatory. We provide a critical discussion of the trajectory of embodiment research in social psychology. We contend that future researchers should engage in a phenomenon‐based approach, highlight the theoretical boundary conditions and mediators involved, explore novel action‐relevant outcome measures, and address the role of individual differences broadly defined. Such research will likely provide a more explanatory account of the role of embodiment in general terms as well as how it expands the knowledge base in social psychology.
Population pharmacokinetics of halofantrine in healthy volunteers and patients with symptomatic falciparum malaria
Authors: Klein Kerenaftali , Aarons Leon , ter Kuile Feiko O , Nosten Francois , White Nick J , Edstein Michael D , Teja-Isavadharm Paktiya
Published: July 2012

Aims

To investigate the population pharmacokinetics of the antimalarial halofantrine (HF) in healthy volunteers and patients with symptomatic falciparum malaria.

Methods

Healthy volunteer data were obtained from six volunteers who received three different doses of HF (250, 500 and 1000 mg) after an overnight fast with a washout period of at least 6 weeks between doses. Patient data (n = 188) were obtained from randomised controlled trials conducted on the Thai–Burmese border in the early 1990s. They were either assigned to receive a total HF dose of 24 mg/kg (8 mg/kg every 6 h for 24 h) or 72 mg/kg (8 mg/kg every 6 to 10 h for 3 days). The population pharmacokinetics of HF were evaluated using non-linear mixed effects modelling with a two-compartment model with first-order absorption.

Key findings

The population estimates of apparent clearance (CL), volume of compartment one (V1), distributional clearance (CLD) and volume of compartment two (V2) of HF in healthy volunteers were 2453 l/day (102 l/h), 2386 l, 716 l/day (29.8 l/h) and 2641 l, respectively. The population estimates of the PK parameters in patients were 429 l/day (17.9 l/h), 729 l, 178 l/day (7.42 l/h) and 1351 l, respectively. All PK parameters were significantly related to body weight and some were related to sex, sampling method, pre-treatment parasite density and whether patients vomited or not. When the two datasets were analysed jointly using a maximum likelihood method, the population estimates in patients were 196 l/day (8.17 l/h), 161 l, 65 l/day (2.71 l/h) and 89 l, respectively, and the parameters were significantly related to body weight and sex. Bayesian analysis of the patient data, with a diffuse prior based on the healthy volunteer data analysis results, yielded the population estimates 354 l/day (14.8 l/h), 728 l, 162 l/day (6.75 l/h) and 1939 l, respectively.

Conclusions

The pharmacokinetic properties of HF in patients with malaria are affected by several demographic variables as well as other relevant covariates. Apparent differences between the healthy volunteer and the patient data analysis results are not entirely due to differences in bioavailability. For the patient data analysis, the Bayesian method was preferred, as the fitting procedure was more stable, allowing random effects to be estimated for all four dispositional parameters.
Near-Field Radiative Transfer Between Heavily Doped SiGe at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Z. M. , Enikov E. T. , Makansi T.
Published: July 2012

SiGe alloys represent an important type of high-temperature semiconductor material for solid-state energy conversion. In the present study, the near-field radiative heat transfer between heavily doped SiGe plates is investigated. A dielectric function model is formulated based on the previously reported room-temperature mobility and temperature-dependent electric resistivity of several silicon-rich alloys with different doping type and concentration. Fluctuational electrodynamics is used to evaluate the near-field noncontact heat transfer coefficient. The variation of the heat transfer coefficient with doping concentration and temperature is explained according to the change in the optical constants and in the spectral distribution of the near-field heat flux.
Effect of Rib Spacing on Heat Transfer in a Two Pass Rectangular Channel (AR = 2:1) at High Rotation Numbers
Authors: Lei Jiang , Han Je-Chin , Huh Michael
Published: July 2012

In this paper, the effect of rib spacing on heat transfer in a rotating two-passage channel (aspect ratio, AR = 2:1) at orientation angle of 135 deg was studied. Parallel ribs were applied’ on leading and trailing walls of the rotating channel at the flow angle of 45 deg. The rib-height-to-hydraulic diameter ratio (e/Dh) was 0.098. The rib-pitch-to-rib-height (P/e) ratios studied were 5, 7.5, and 10. For each rib spacing, tests were taken at five Reynolds numbers from 10,000 to 40,000, and for each Reynolds number, experiments were conducted at four rotational speeds up to 400 rpm. Results show that the heat transfer enhancement increases with decreasing P/e from 10 to 5 under nonrotation conditions. However, the effect of rotation on the heat transfer enhancement remains about the same for varying P/e from 10 to 5. Correlations of Nusselt number ratio (Nu/Nus) to rotation number (Ro) or local buoyancy parameter (Box) are existent on all surfaces (leading, trailing, inner and outer walls, and tip cap region) in the two-passage 2:1 aspect ratio channel.
Influence of Rotating Band Construction on Gun Tube Loading—Part II: Measurement and Analysis
Authors: Toivola Juha , Moilanen Seppo , Tervokoski Janne , Keinänen Heikki
Published: July 2012

The soft deformable metallic rotating band of large caliber projectiles prevents the gas leakage between the gun tube wall and the shell body by the band pressure on contact surfaces during the launch cycle of the gun. High rotating band pressures can lead to problems concerning gun tube wear, fatigue, and strength. The effects of changes in construction of rotating band and long range artillery projectile shell body on gun tube loading are studied experimentally. A practical analysis method for tube inner wall pressure computation from outer wall strain measurements is presented. The method is based on assuming stepped pressure load affecting on tube inner wall surface, when the projectile passes the measurement point. Although the analysis method was simplified, it was found to give useful and reliable results for comparative verification of different shell and band structures and their influences on gun tube loading. The structural design of the shell body and the rotating band were shown to be the most important aspects to cause the extreme loadings on the gun tube.
LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES: Prognosis for Nanotechnology Treatments
Authors: May Mike
Published: July 2012

Nanotechnology-based tools and treatments promise sensitive disease diagnosis and accurate drug delivery. Most important, the physical features of nanometer-size materials provide capabilities that larger objects cannot match. Nonetheless, some of the challenges, such as biocompatibility and toxicity, require ongoing research and improved solutions. Despite these obstacles, some nanoscale approaches to medicine can already be used.
Chronic cystoid macular oedema treated with intravitreal dobesilate: Figure 1
Authors: Cuevas Pedro , Outeiriño Luis A , Angulo Javier , Giménez-Gallego Guillermo
Published: July 2012

Dobesilate is an anti-inflammatory and antipermeability agent. Intravitreal administration of this compound is a therapeutically beneficial agent in the treatment of chronic cystoid macular oedema.
Ectatic left circumflex artery with fistula to coronary sinus presenting with inferior wall myocardial infarction
Authors: Vivek G , Naha Kushal , Ramachandran Padmakumar , Rajagopal K V
Published: July 2012

Coronary arteriovenous fistulae are a rare but potentially curable cause of ischaemic heart disease and should be considered as a differential diagnosis especially in patients lacking classical risk factors for coronary artery disease. We discuss one such case of cardiac ischaemia resulting from a coronary arteriovenous fistula. While there are sporadic case reports of similar patients in medical literature, our patient is the first reported case of ST-elevation myocardial infarction secondary to the fistulous connection.
AMBIGUOUS RISK AVERSION UNDER CAPACITY
Authors: WANG HONGXIA , LI SHOUMEI
Published: July 2012

The aim of this paper is to propose a new measure approach of ambiguous risk aversion under some capacity μ (a non-additive measure), in particular, under the distorted probability. Firstly, by using the Choquet integral with respect to the capacity μ, we introduce the concept of ambiguous risk premium [Formula: see text] of a risk asset X for risk aversive individuals whose utility function is u, and we investigate some properties of the ambiguous risk premium under some assumptions. Then to illustrate our theoretical results, we give an example and empirical results.
METHOD FOR FORECASTING DI BASED ON TRIZ TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM EVOLUTION THEORY
Authors: SUN JIANGUANG , TAN RUNHUA
Published: July 2012

Disruptive Innovation (DI) is an effective method for a new firm to enter mature market. According to the composing analysis of the technical system for the product, six kinds of typical state in the technical system process can be detected. In accordance with technology system evolution analysis, two kinds of evolutionary technologies — mainstream evolutionary technologies and laggard evolutionary technologies — can be detected. Then, the conditions for forecasting DI technologies are established. Based on evolution path lines of TRIZ, the potential DI can be forecasted. As a case study, the video game console system is investigated. The study shows that the adoption of TRIZ evolution theory in forecasting disruptive technologies of product is feasible.
MODELING EFFECTS OF INCENTIVES FOR INDUSTRY COMPETITIVENESS USING A SYSTEM DYNAMICS APPROACH
Authors: KAGGWA MARTIN , STEYN JASPER L. , POURIS ANASTASSIOS
Published: July 2012

Investment in state of the art machinery and tooling and in R&D is widely seen as a prerequisite for achieving industry competitiveness in the long term. Investment-based incentives that countries provide for these inputs are perceived as a way of supporting industry competitiveness. Despite this being a global phenomenon, there is no formal process to guide the offer of these incentives. The process of designing such incentives is often based on internalized judgment rather than on formal models making it difficult to assess such interventions objectively and to improve on them. Specific to South Africa, the offer of incentives to the automotive industry to support its competitiveness has had mixed results. In particular, investment in R&D has remained minimal. The paper presents a system dynamics model as a proposed instrument in formalizing the offer of incentives, applied to the South African government's offer of incentives to the automotive manufacturing sector. The model was developed from qualitative and quantitative information on how the incentives had been structured. Simulations of the model reveal that the incentives model, as a stand-alone intervention, had a significant and positive effect on industry investment, but had no specific policy lever to direct investment into R&D and subsequent innovative activities. By this measure, the incentives model has not been a strong policy framework for supporting long-term industry competitiveness.
Utility and Safety of ERCP in the Elderly: A Comparative Study in Iran
Authors: Mohammad Alizadeh Amir Houshang , Afzali Esmaeil Shamsi , Shahnazi Anahita , Sanati Azare , Mirsattari Dariush , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: July 2012

Background. The present study sought and compared the utility and safety of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in the elderly and younger people in a great sample of Iranian population. Methods. Our study involved 780 patients undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic ERCP at the Taleghani hospital in Tehran between 2010 and 2011; among them, 558 patients were less than 70 years old and others were 70 years old or older. The patients were prospectively identified and data including clinical and biochemical features, ERCP procedures, ERCP diagnosis, and ERCP complications were gathered on them prospectively. Results. Clinical manifestations were comparable in young and older groups except for hepatosplenomegaly and constipation that were more prevalent in the elderly. Laboratory findings were similar in both groups other than mean levels of alkaline phosphatase, hemoglobin and albumin levels, which were higher in the elderly group. Selective biliary cannulation was technically more successful in the younger than in others (89.0% versus 81.8%). Common bile duct stone was the most frequent diagnosis in both young and older groups (36.6% and 45.9%, resp.), whereas ERCP was reported to be normal in 13.4% of the younger and 5.0% of the elderly patients. Post-ERCP complications were observed in 4.8% of patients aged less than 70 years in comparison with 2.3% of patients aged over 70 years. The most frequent complication was pancreatitis that was significantly more developed in young than older patients (3.6% versus 1.5%; OR: 8.216, P=0.015). Conclusion. Diagnostic ERCP is safe and well tolerated in the elderly and even associated with significantly less risk than the younger.
Research on the Measurement of Carbon Storage in Plantation Tree Trunks Based on the Carbon Storage Dynamic Analysis Method
Authors: Yin Weida , Yin Mingfang , Zhao Lin , Yang Lin
Published: July 2012

Estimation of forest carbon storage can be of great significance to the research on the productivity of terrestrial ecosystem, carbon cycle, and global warming. China has more than 54 million hm2barren hills and waste land suitable for forestation, which provides a great potential for developing carbon sink forestry by means of forestation. This research analyzed the volume increments, volume densities, and carbon contents of 15 analytical samples of five main plantation tree species in North China, includingPinus tabulaeformis(A),Robinia pseudoacacia(B),Populus euramericana(C),Larix olgenisis(D), andLarix kaempferi(E). Results showed that carbon storage dynamic process can be expressed as follows: the ages of quantitative maturity of each tree species are 67a, 40a, 30a, 48a, 49a, respectively; the average wood densities of each tree species at different age classes are 550.93 kg/m3, 629.25 kg/m3, 404.56 kg/m3, 592.33 kg/m3, and 544.11 kg/m3,t. The average carbon contents of each tree species at different age classes are 51.48%, 46.88%, 47.81%, 46.76%, and 47.24%. It showed a significant difference between the above tree species through variance test. The maximum values of average carbon storage are 70a, 40a, 30a, 48.7a, and 49.2a, respectively. The corresponding average carbon storages are A 2.527 kg, B 3,794 kg, C 2.781 kg, D 2.996 kg, and E 3,322 kg, in a descending order ofC>E>D>B>A. This research, through experiment on four tree species with clear growth rings and one tree species with unclear growth rings, verified the scientific character and the scope of application of the carbon storage dynamic analysis method, providing a new method for the measurement and analysis of forest carbon storage.
Key Performance Indicators for the Impact of Cognitive Assembly Planning on Ramp-Up Process
Authors: Buescher Christian , Hauck Eckart , Schilberg Daniel , Jeschke Sabina
Published: July 2012

Within the ramp-up phase of highly automated assembly systems, the planning effort forms a large part of production costs. Due to shortening product lifecycles, changing customer demands, and therefore an increasing number of ramp-up processes, these costs even rise. So assembly systems should reduce these efforts and simultaneously be flexible for quick adaption to changes in products and their variants. A cognitive interaction system in the field of assembly planning systems is developed within the Cluster of Excellence “Integrative production technology for high-wage countries” at RWTH Aachen University which integrates several cognitive capabilities according to human cognition. This approach combines the advantages of automation with the flexibility of humans. In this paper the main principles of the system's core component—the cognitive control unit—are presented to underline its advantages with respect to traditional assembly systems. Based on this, the actual innovation of this paper is the development of key performance indicators. These refer to the ramp-up process as a main objective of such a system is to minimize the planning effort during ramp-up. The KPIs are also designed to show the impact on the main idea of the Cluster of Excellence in resolving the so-called Polylemma of Production.
Volumetric Analysis of Cranial Vault Distraction for Cephalocranial Disproportion
Authors: Deschamps-Braly Jordan , Hettinger Patrick , el Amm Christian , Denny Arlen D.
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this study was to provide an objective analysis and quantify the intracranial volume change produced by cranial vault distraction osteogenesis. We recently published a technique to expand the cranial vault by distraction in symptomatic patients with findings of cephalocranial disproportion. Resolution of symptoms was documented in that publication. In this current study, we analyzed postdistraction intracranial volume changes in 11 consecutive patients retrospectively from 10/2001 to 11/2010 with institutional review board approval. These 11 patients were treated by cranial vault distraction osteogenesis for symptomatic cephalocranial disproportion. Pre- and postoperative CT DICOM data were analyzed using specialized software to generate finite element models. Intracranial and ventricular volumes were calculated. Topographical surface maps were generated to document and quantify areas of change. Possible effects on brain physiology are discussed. Pre- and postoperative CT scans were obtained at an average of 3.5 months prior to, and 4.2 months following distraction, respectively. Average age at distraction was 55.72 months (range 26–104 months). Operative time averaged 2 h 44 min (range 127–198 min, SD = 30.6). Intracranial and ventricular volumes increased by an average of 77.01 and 4.85 ml, respectively. Nonventricular intracranial volumes increased by 5.91%, 71.67 ml following distraction. All postoperative volume changes were statistically significant (p ≤ 0.000025). The ability to use the same methodology to quantify ventricular volume changes was unexpected. The fact that all ventricles expanded after distraction at approximately 10% of the total intracranial volume increase indicates that compensatory mechanisms had been activated. We conclude that this occurs at the expense of cerebral blood flow.
Benign Neurological Recovery with Low Recurrence and Low Peridural Fibrosis Rate in Pediatric Disc Herniations after Lumbar Microdiscectomy
Authors: Çelik Sevinç , Göksu Kamber , Çelik Suat E. , Emir Canan Bolcu
Published: July 2012

Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a very rare clinical entity in the pediatric age group, therefore only a few clinical studies have until now investigated the clinical behavior of pediatric LDH. The natural clinical history, postoperative neurological recovery with radiological follow-up and quality of life related to the disorder continue to be unknown. We prospectively planned and designed two groups of LDH patients scheduled for surgery in this study. The operations were performed by the same surgeon in a randomized fashion. The first group consisted of pediatric patients and the second group of adult patients. Both groups contained 32 cases. Postoperative neurological recovery was assessed using the visual analog scale and Aberdeen Low Back Pain Scale. Postoperative peridural fibrosis was also evaluated in postcontrast magnetic resonance sections. After 3 years of follow-up, all parameters were significantly better in the pediatric LDH group with no recurrence of the disease. The pediatric LDH group was postoperatively better than the adult group both clinically and radiologically. Although LDH seems a catastrophic disease in the pediatric age group, the clinical picture and neurological recovery have a significantly more benign course than in adult patients even in operated cases.
Endoscopic Total Corpus Callosotomy: Cadaveric Demonstration of a New Approach
Authors: Bahuleyan Biji , Vogel Timothy W. , Robinson Shenandoah , Cohen Alan R.
Published: July 2012

Background: Callosotomy is a surgical option for treatment of a small number of patients with intractable seizures who are not candidates for surgical resection. The procedure is done conventionally with the aid of a microscope. In this article, we describe a new technique of endoscopic callosotomy through a parasagittal burr hole in a cadaveric model. Methods: We utilized this technique with a single frontal burr hole. Callosotomies were performed on 4 silicon-injected cadaver heads in our minimally invasive neurosurgical laboratory. Results: We were able to successfully perform total callosotomies in all cadaveric specimens without injury to the adjacent neurovascular structures. The advantages of our technique over microsurgery are the minimally invasive nature of the exposure and the improved visualization of the vascular structures near the rostrum and genu of the corpus callosum. A potential disadvantage we anticipate is the difficulty controlling bleeding in the event of vascular injury. Conclusion: We believe that this minimally invasive approach could have potential clinical applications.
The Cure Fraction of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Smoll Nicolas R. , Schaller Karl , Gautschi Oliver P.
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose: This study presents a statistical model to explore the presence of a population-based cure fraction in populations with a GBM. Patients and Methods: Data for this study was obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End-Results (SEER) database. Relative survival measures were modelled using non-mixture cure fraction models. Results: The extraction and subsequent period modeling of the dataset resulted in a final total of 11,189 patients and a total of 10,289 years of patient follow-up (between 2001 and 2006). The cure fraction of young adults is expected to be 12% (95% CI 7–16), which is estimated to occur at a minimum time of 10 years post diagnosis. Interpretation: The data, using population-based cure fraction models, indicate that a possibility for cure appears to be present in the young adult population, and occurs at 10 years after diagnosis. Because of the biological and statistical features of this patient population, it is appropriate to study GBM populations using cure fraction models.
The Role of Antiangiogenic Agents in the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Denaro N. , Russi E.G. , Colantonio I. , Adamo V. , Merlano M.C.
Published: July 2012

Despite progress in the treatment of locally advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), the prognosis remains dismal and 5-year survival does not exceed 40%. In metastatic and recurrent disease, in spite of the introduction of cetuximab in combination with platinum and fluorouracil, the median overall survival rate remains lower than 11 months. There are many possible reasons for these disappointing results including acquired drug resistance and tumor hypoxia. Angiogenesis plays an important role in HNSCC development and proliferation. Promising preclinical results with antiangiogenic therapies have engendered a number of clinical trials, but so far there have not been any conclusive results on the value of such treatments. This paper aims to review the role of angiogenesis in head and neck cancer and to suggest future perspectives.
Surface Pressure Fluctuations Produced by the Total Solar Eclipse of 1 August 2008
Authors: Marty J. , Dalaudier F. , Ponceau D. , Blanc E. , Munkhuu U.
Published: July 2012

During a solar eclipse, the moon’s shadow progressively occults a part of Earth from the solar flux. This induces a cooling in the atmospheric layers that usually absorb the solar radiation. Since the eclipse shadow travels within the atmosphere at supersonic velocity, this cooling generates a planetary-scale bow wave of internal gravity waves. The purpose of this article is to estimate the surface atmospheric pressure fluctuations produced by the passage of the 1 August 2008 total solar eclipse and to compare these pressure fluctuations with those recorded by a temporary network of microbarographs and by the infrasound stations of the International Monitoring System. The surface pressure fluctuations expected at all the measurement sites are estimated using a linear spectral numerical model. It is shown that the cooling of both the ozonosphere and the troposphere can produce detectable pressure fluctuations at the ground surface but that the tropospheric cooling is likely to be the predominant source. Since the expected eclipse signals are in a frequency range that is highly perturbed by atmospheric tides and meteorological phenomena, the pressure fluctuations produced by these latter synoptic disturbances are characterized and removed from the recorded signals. Low-frequency gravity waves starting just after the passage of the eclipse are then brought to light at most measurement sites. The time–frequency characteristics of these waves are similar to those obtained from the model, which strongly suggests that these waves were produced by the passage of the 1 August 2008 solar eclipse.
Characterization of a set of novel meiotically-active promoters in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Junhua , Farmer Andrew D , Lindquist Ingrid E , Dukowic-Schulze Stefanie , Mudge Joann , Li Tao , Retzel Ernest F , Chen Changbin
Published: July 2012

Background

Homologous recombination, together with selection, laid the foundation for traditional plant breeding. The recombination process that takes place during meiotic cell division is crucial for the creation of novel variations of highly desired traits by breeders. Gaining control over this process is important for molecular breeding to achieve more precise, large-scale and quicker plant improvement. As conventional ubiquitous promoters are neither tissue-specific nor efficient in driving gene expression in meiocytes, promoters with high meiotic activities are potential candidates for manipulating the recombination process. So far, only a few meiotically-active promoters have been reported. Recently developed techniques to profile the transcriptome landscape of isolated meiocytes provided the means to discover promoters from genes that are actively expressed in meiosis.

Results

In a screen for meiotically-active promoters, we examined ten promoter sequences that are associated with novel meiotic candidate genes. Each promoter was tested by expressing a GFP reporter gene in Arabidopsis. Characterization of regulatory regions revealed that these meiotically-active promoters possessed conserved motifs and motif arrangement. Some of the promoters unite optimal properties which are invaluable for meiosis-directed studies such as delivering specific gene expression in early meiosis I and/or meiosis II. Furthermore, the examination of homologs of the corresponding genes within green plants points to a great potential of applying the information from Arabidopsis to other species, especially crop plants.

Conclusions

We identified ten novel meiotically-active promoters; which, along with their homologs, are prime candidates to specifically drive gene expression during meiosis in plants and can thus provide important tools for meiosis study and crop breeding.
A cluster randomised controlled trial of an occupational therapy intervention for residents with stroke living in UK care homes (OTCH): study protocol
Authors: Sackley Cath M , Burton Chris R , Herron-Marx Sandy , Lett Karen , Mant Jonathan , Roalfe Andrea K , Sharp Leslie J , Sheehan Bart , Stant Katie E , Walker Marion F , Watkins Caroline L , Wheatley Keith , Williams Jane , Yao Guiqing L , Feltham Max G
Published: July 2012

Background

The occupational therapy (OT) in care homes study (OTCH) aims to investigate the effect of a targeted course of individual OT (with task training, provision of adaptive equipment, minor environmental adaptations and staff education) for stroke survivors living in care homes, compared to usual care.

Methods/Design

A cluster randomised controlled trial of United Kingdom (UK) care homes (n = 90) with residents (n = 900) who have suffered a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA), and who are not receiving end-of-life care. Homes will be stratified by centre and by type of care provided and randomised (50:50) using computer generated blocked randomisation within strata to receive either the OT intervention (3 months intervention from an occupational therapist) or control (usual care). Staff training on facilitating independence and mobility and the use of adaptive equipment, will be delivered to every home, with control homes receiving this after the 12 month follow-up.

Allocation will be concealed from the independent assessors, but the treating therapists, and residents will not be masked to the intervention. Measurements are taken at baseline prior to randomisation and at 3, 6 and 12 months post randomisation. The primary outcome measure is independence in self-care activities of daily living (Barthel Activities of Daily Living Index). Secondary outcome measures are mobility (Rivermead Mobility Index), mood (Geriatric Depression Scale), preference based quality of life measured from EQ-5D and costs associated with each intervention group. Quality adjusted life years (QALYs) will be derived based on the EQ-5D scores. Cost effectiveness analysis will be estimated and measured by incremental cost effectiveness ratio. Adverse events will be recorded.

Discussion

This study will be the largest cluster randomised controlled trial of OT in care homes to date and will clarify the currently inconclusive literature on the efficacy of OT for stroke and TIA survivors residing in care homes.

Trial registration

ISRCTN00757750
Sesquiterpene lactones isolated from indigenous Middle Eastern plants inhibit tumor promoter-induced transformation of JB6 cells
Authors: Saikali Melody , Ghantous Akram , Halawi Racha , Talhouk Salma N , Saliba Najat A , Darwiche Nadine
Published: July 2012

Background

Sesquiterpene lactones (SL) are plant secondary metabolites that are known for their anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. Considering that several SL-derived drugs are currently in cancer clinical trials, we have tested two SL molecules, 3-β-methoxy-iso-seco-tanapartholide (β-tan) isolated from Achillea falcata and salograviolide A (Sal A) isolated from Centaurea ainetensis, for their anti-tumor properties. We used the mouse epidermal JB6P + cells as a model for tumor promotion and cellular transformation. Key players that are involved in cellular transformation and tumorigenesis are the AP-1 and NF-κB transcription factors; therefore, we assessed how β-tan and Sal A modulate their signaling pathways in JB6P + cells.

Methods

The effects of β-tan and Sal A on the growth of normal and neoplastic keratinocytes and on the tumor promotion-responsive JB6P + cells were determined using the MTT assay. Anchorage-independent cell growth transformation assays were used to evaluate the anti-tumor promoting properties of these SL molecules in JB6P + cells and dual luciferase reporter assays and western blot analysis were used to investigate their effects on tumor promoter-induced AP-1 and NF-κB activities and protein levels of key AP-1 and NF-кB target genes.

Results

β-tan and Sal A selectively inhibited tumor promoter-induced cell growth and transformation of JB6P + cells at concentrations that do not affect JB6P + and primary keratinocytes basal cell growth. In addition, both molecules reduced basal and tumor promoter-induced NF-κB transcriptional activities, differentially regulated basal and tumor promoter-induced AP-1 transcriptional activities, and modulated key players of the AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Conclusions

These results highlight the anti-tumor promoting properties of β-tan and Sal A. These SL molecules isolated from two plant species native to the Middle East may provide opportunities for complementary medicine practices.
Assessing the impact of harm reduction programs on law enforcement in Southeast Asia: a description of a regional research methodology
Authors: Thomson Nick , Moore Tim , Crofts Nick
Published: July 2012

For over 15 years the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) has been a leading donor for harm reduction projects in Southeast Asia. The recent AusAID-supported harm reduction projects of greatest significance have included the Asia Regional HIV/AIDS Project (AHRP), from 2002 until 2007,1 and the HIV/AIDS Asia Regional Program (HAARP), from 2007 until 2015.2 Both projects included in their design specific strategies for engaging with law enforcement agencies at country level. The main focus of these strategies has been to develop law enforcement harm reduction policy and curriculum, and the design and implementation of specific harm reduction training for law enforcement officers.

In July 2008, the Australian Development Research Awards (ADRA) funded the Nossal Institute for Global Health at the University of Melbourne to establish a research project created to assess the influence of harm reduction programs on the policy and operational practices of law enforcement agencies in Southeast Asia, known as the LEHRN Project (Law Enforcement, Harm Reduction, Nossal Institute Project). The ADRA is a unique grant research mechanism that specifically funds development research to improve the understanding and informed decision making of the implementation of Australian aid effectiveness.

While the need to engage law enforcement when establishing harm reduction programs was well documented, little was known about the impact or influence of harm reduction programs on policy and practices of law enforcement agencies. The LEHRN Project provided the opportunity to assess the impact of harm reduction programs on law enforcement in Southeast Asia, with a focus on Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR.
Harm reduction in Cambodia: a disconnect between policy and practice
Authors: Chheng Kannarath , Leang Supheap , Thomson Nick , Moore Timothy , Crofts Nick
Published: July 2012

In 2003 the Government of Cambodia officially began to recognise that harm reduction was an essential approach to preventing HIV among people who use drugs and their sexual partners. Several programs aiming to control and prevent HIV among drug users have been implemented in Cambodia, mostly in the capital, Phnom Penh. However, there have been ongoing tensions between law enforcement and harm reduction actors, despite several advocacy efforts targeting law enforcement. This study attempts to better understand the implementation of harm reduction in Cambodia and how the policy environment and harm reduction program implementation has intersected with the role of law enforcement officials in Cambodia.
The optimized acupuncture treatment for neck pain caused by cervical spondylosis: a study protocol of a multicentre randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liang Zhao-Hui , Di Zhong , Jiang Shuo , Xu Shu-Jun , Zhu Xiao-Ping , Fu Wen-Bin , Lu Ai-Ping
Published: July 2012

Background

Neck pain is one of the chief symptoms of cervical spondylosis (CS). Acupuncture is a well-accepted and widely used complementary therapy for the management of neck pain caused by CS. In this paper, we present a randomized controlled trial protocol evaluating the use of acupuncture for CS neck pain, comparing the effects of the optimized acupuncture therapy in real practice compared with sham and shallow acupuncture.

Methods/Design

This trial uses a multicentre, parallel-group, randomized, sham acupuncture and shallow acupuncture, controlled single-blind design. Nine hospitals are involved as trial centres. 945 patients who meet inclusion criteria are randomly assigned to receive optimized acupuncture therapy, sham acupuncture or shallow acupuncture by a computerized central randomization system. The interventions past for 4 weeks with eight to ten treatments in total. The group allocations and interventions are concealed to patients and statisticians. The Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) is used as the primary outcome measure, and the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and The Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36) are applied as secondary outcome measures. The evaluation is performed at baseline, at the end of the intervention, and at the end of the first month and the third month during follow-up. The statistical analyses will include baseline data comparison and repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) for primary and secondary outcomes of group and time differences. Adverse events (AEs) will be reported if they occur.

Discussion

This trial is a multicentre randomized control trial (RCT) on the efficacy of acupuncture for CS neck pain and has a large sample size and central randomization in China. It will strictly follow the CONSORT statement and STRICTA extension guideline to report high-quality study results. By setting the control groups as sham and shallow acupuncture, this study attempts to reveal the effects of real acupuncture versus placebo or non-classic acupuncture treatment and evaluate whether classic Chinese medical acupuncture is effective on CS neck pain. This study will provide evidence for the effects of acupuncture on CS neck pain.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-TRC-00000184.
The strategies that peanut and nut‐allergic consumers employ to remain safe when travelling abroad
Authors: Barnett Julie , Botting Neil , Gowland M Hazel , Lucas Jane S
Published: July 2012

Background

An understanding of the management strategies used by food allergic individuals is needed as a prerequisite to improving avoidance and enhancing quality of life. Travel abroad is a high risk time for severe and fatal food allergic reactions, but there is paucity of research concerning foreign travel. This study is the first to investigate the experiences of, and strategies used by peanut and tree nut allergic individuals when travelling abroad.

Methods

Thirty‐two adults with a clinical history of reaction to peanuts or tree nuts consistent with IgE‐mediated allergy participated in a qualitative interview study.

Results

Travel abroad was considered difficult with inherent risks for allergic individuals. Many participants recounted difficulties with airlines or restaurants. Inconsistency in managing allergen avoidance by airlines was a particular risk and a cause of frustration to participants. Individuals used a variety of strategies to remain safe including visiting familiar environments, limiting their activities, carrying allergy information cards in the host language, preparing their own food and staying close to medical facilities.

Conclusions

Participants used a variety of allergen avoidance strategies, which were mostly extensions or modifications of the strategies that they use when eating at home or eating‐out in the UK. The extended strategies reflected their recognition of enhanced risk during travel abroad. Their risk assessments and actions were generally well informed and appropriate. A need for airline policy regarding allergy to be declared and adhered to is needed, as is more research to quantify the true risks of airborne allergens in the cabin. Recommendations arising from our study are presented.