bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study on the efficacy of electromyography and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback in tension type headache: a single blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bembalgi Veena , Naik Karkal Ravishankar
Published: January 2013

Tension type headache is the most widespread and most common primary headache disorder accounting for nearly 90% of all headaches. Efficacy of electromyography biofeedback in patients with tension type headache has been proven but efficacy of galvanic skin resistance biofeedback has not been studied adequately. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of electromyography biofeedback and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback in patients with tension type headache.

We performed a randomized single blinded controlled study. Out of 116 recruited subjects, 91 (59 females and 32 males) were randomly assigned to three groups receiving electromyography biofeedback (n=30), galvanic skin resistance biofeedback (n=30), and a control group (n=31). Each subject (except the control group) received 15 biofeedback sessions for 30 min each in an isolated room. The control group received only medication prescribed by their physician. Each patient was blinded to the type of biofeedback being given. Pain variables, SF-36 quality of life scores, and analgesic usage were recorded at baseline, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after therapy.

There was a significant difference in frequency and duration of headache in electromyography and galvanic skin resistance groups (p<0.01), whereas the control group showed significant differences in intensity (p=0.05) and duration (p<0.001). Significant improvement was seen only in total SF-36 scores after 1 year in the electromyography and control groups (p=0.03 and p=0.00, respectively). A significant drop in analgesic usage was seen in all groups at 1 year (p<0.001).

Electromyography and galvanic skin resistance biofeedback are effective in the treatment of tension type headache, with electromyography biofeedback being more effective than galvanic skin resistance biofeedback.
Photoacoustic microscopy imaging – From a single erythrocyte to a vascular network/Bildgebung mittels photoakustischer Mikroskopie – Vom einzelnen Erythrozyt zum Gefäßnetz
Authors: Yuan Yi , Chen Zhongjiang , Yang Sihua , Xing Da
Published: January 2013

A label-free angiography photoacoustic microscopy system is proposed which was produced by the integration of a two-dimensional scanning galvanometer, an objective lens, a focused ultrasound transducer, a water container and a sample supporter. Using this system,
Microscopic fracture mechanisms of octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-containing hybrid nanocomposite materials
Authors: Jiang Ming , Li Hairong , Xiong Chuanxi
Published: January 2013

A hybrid nanocomposite material based on polystyrene-octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (PS-OV-POSS) system has been developed for safety applications requiring minimum impact resistance as well as acceptable tensile and flexural properties. The low impact resistance and sufficient tensile and flexural properties could be achieved simultaneously. The microscopic fracture mechanisms of the hybrid nanocomposite material were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The desired frangibility can be achieved at an exceedingly low OV-POSS level owing to the multifunctionality of OV-POSS and its rigid cubic structure. This could permit the realization of simple, low-cost low impact resistant structures without complex structure design. The material is easy to dispose by means of mechanical process due to its inherent frangible character and light weight.
Frequency optimization of laminated annular circular plates
Authors: Topal Umut
Published: January 2013

This paper deals with frequency optimization of symmetrically laminated angle-ply annular circular plates. The design objective is the maximization of the fundamental frequency, and the design variable is the fiber orientation in the layers. The first-order shear deformation theory and nine-node isoparametric finite element model in polar coordinates are used in finding the natural frequencies. The modified feasible direction (MFD) method is used for the optimization routine. For this purpose, a program based on FORTRAN is used. Finally, the numerical analysis is carried out to investigate the effects of radius ratios, boundary conditions, and uniform external or internal pressure loads on the optimal designs, and the results are shown in tabular and graphical forms.
Feminist “Cant” and Narrative Selflessness in Sarah Grand’s New Woman Trilogy
Authors: Simek Lauren
Published: January 2013

This essay examines the ethical and rhetorical significance that narrative knowledge holds for women’s public articulation of belief in Sarah Grand’s New Woman trilogy (1888–1897). Grand’s novels’ interest in moral and political expression has led critics, early and late, to criticize Grand for moralizing. The novels themselves, however, express a similar concern, and strive to distinguish between moral expression aimed to effect positive change and moral expression aimed toward self-promotion. A public speaker on women’s issues herself, Grand portrays her feminist heroines’ airing of their beliefs as essential to their moral development. While demonstrating moral articulation as key to self-awareness, Grand’s narrators emphasize the selfless unselfconsciousness behind her heroines’ expressions of belief—an unself-consciousness that maneuvers around the risk that self-awareness might become self-regard. Narrative can pinpoint this selfless unself-consciousness, but, as Grand realizes, it can also transform it into just another instance of moralizing self-promotion on the part of the author. This essay reveals that Grand’s unorthodox narrative forms, previously assumed to be isolated experiments, serve as part of a complex rhetorical schema that allows Grand to grasp at ethical self-awareness that avoids self-absorption as she speaks out for moral and political change for women. Grand ultimately understands her authorial voice as engaged in a kind of secular prayer, in which her intended audience lies somewhere between self and other, the purpose of her expression somewhere between self-reflection and rhetorical efficacy. Training her readers to interpret a version of her heroines’ selfless unself-consciousness in themselves and others, Grand imagines an ethically self-reflective, rhetorically powerful mode of moral agency for women facing misinterpretation in the real, "narratorless" world.
Duration of rise in free fatty acids determines salicylate's effect on hepatic insulin sensitivity
Authors: Pereira Sandra , Yu Wen Qin , Frigolet María E , Beaudry Jacqueline L , Shpilberg Yaniv , Park Edward , Dirlea Cristina , Nyomba B L Grégoire , Riddell Michael C , Fantus I George , Giacca Adria
Published: January 2013

We have shown in rats that sodium salicylate (SS), which inhibits IkBa kinase B (IKKB), prevents hepatic and peripheral insulin resistance caused by short-term (7 h) i.v. administration of Intralipid and heparin (IH). We wished to further determine whether this beneficial effect of SS persisted after prolonged (48 h) IH infusion, which better mimics the chronic free fatty acid (FFA) elevation of obesity. Hence, we performed hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamps with tritiated glucose methodology to determine hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity in rats infused with saline, IH, IH and SS, or SS alone. SS prevented peripheral insulin resistance (P<0.05) caused by prolonged plasma FFA elevation; however, it did not prevent hepatic insulin resistance. In skeletal muscle, protein levels of phospho-IkBa were augmented by prolonged IH administration and this was prevented by SS, suggesting that IH activates while SS prevents the activation of IKKB. Markers of IKKB activation, namely protein levels of phospho-IkBa and IkBa, indicated that IKKB is not activated in the liver after prolonged FFA elevation. Phosphorylation of serine 307 at insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1, which is a marker of proximal insulin resistance, was not altered by IH administration in the liver, suggesting that this is not a site of hepatic insulin resistance in the prolonged lipid infusion model. Our results suggest that the role of IKKB in fat-induced insulin resistance is time and tissue dependent and that hepatic insulin resistance induced by prolonged lipid elevation is not due to an IRS-1 serine 307 kinase.
Antiandrogen flutamide affects folliculogenesis during fetal development in pigs
Authors: Knapczyk-Stwora Katarzyna , Durlej-Grzesiak Malgorzata , Ciereszko Renata E , Koziorowski Marek , Slomczynska Maria
Published: January 2013

Androgen deficiency during prenatal development may affect the expression of genes involved in the folliculogenesis regulation. In order to study the effect of antiandrogen on fetal ovarian development, pregnant gilts were injected with flutamide (for 7 days, 50 mg/kg body weight per day) or corn oil (control groups) starting on gestation days 43 (GD50), 83 (GD90), or 101 (GD108). The obtained fetal ovaries were fixed for histology and immunohistochemistry or frozen for real-time PCR. Morphological evaluation, TUNEL assay, and expression of selected factors (Ki-67, GATA binding transcription factor 4 (GATA4), E-Cadherin and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)) were performed. On GD90 and GD108, ovaries following flutamide administration showed a higher number of egg nests and lower number of follicles than those in respective control groups. An increased mRNA and protein expression of Ki-67 was observed in flutamide-treated groups compared with controls on GD50 and GD108 but decreased expression was found on GD90. In comparison to control groups a higher percentage of TUNEL-positive cells was shown after flutamide exposure on GD50 and GD90 and a lower percentage of apoptotic cells was observed on GD108. These data were consistent with changes in TNF (TNFα) mRNA expression, which increased on GD90 and decreased on GD108. E-cadherin mRNA and protein expression was upregulated on GD50 and downregulated on GD90 and GD108. In conclusion diminished androgen action in porcine fetal ovaries during mid- and late gestation leads to changes in the expression of genes crucial for follicle formation. Consequently, delayed folliculogenesis was observed on GD90 and GD108. It seems however that androgens exhibit diverse biological effects depending on the gestational period.
Endometrial inflammatory markers of the early immune response in mares susceptible or resistant to persistent breeding-induced endometritis
Authors: Woodward E M , Christoffersen M , Campos J , Betancourt A , Horohov D , Scoggin K E , Squires E L , Troedsson M H T
Published: January 2013

Transient endometritis after breeding is necessary for clearance of bacteria and spermatozoa; however, in a subpopulation of mares, the inflammation fails to resolve in a timely fashion. The objective of this study was to describe the uterine inflammatory response in mares susceptible or resistant to persistent breeding-induced endometritis (PBIE) during the first 24 h after induction of uterine inflammation. Twelve mares were classified as susceptible (n=6) or resistant (n=6) to PBIE. Mares were inseminated over five estrous cycles and endometrial biopsies were collected at one time point per cycle before (0) and 2, 6, 12, and 24 h after insemination. qPCR analysis forIL1B,IL6,IL8,IFNG,TNF(TNFA),IL10, andIL1RNwas performed, and endometrial inflammatory cells were counted for each sample. Relative quantification values reported fold changes in mRNA expression from 0 h values. A general pattern of expression post insemination was observed in both groups of mares. Cytokine mRNA increased at 2 h, peaked between 2 and 12 h, and then decreased. Differences were detected between groups of mares 6 h after challenge; resistant mares had higher mRNA expression ofIL6,IL1RN, andIL10than susceptible mares. Susceptible mares had an increased number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in the endometrium 2 and 12 h after breeding when compared with resistant mares. These findings describe an inherent difference in the initial immune response to insemination and may help explain the transient nature of inflammation in resistant mares, whereas susceptible mares develop a persistent inflammation.
Epidemiologia das fraturas em pacientes do interior do Ceará tratadas pelo SUS
Authors: Albuquerque Ana Lívia Monte de , Sousa Filho Pedro Guilme Teixeira de , Braga Junior Manuel Bomfim , Cavalcante Neto José de Sá , Medeiros Bárbara Bianca Linhares de , Lopes Marcio Bezerra Gadelha
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Comprovar cientificamente o elevado número de pacientes com fraturas provenientes do interior do Ceará tratados cirurgicamente pelo SUS em Fortaleza. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foi realizado um estudo transversal, prospectivo e descritivo com 1694 pacientes tratados pelo SUS em Fortaleza, de agosto de 2006 a março de 2007, em sete hospitais, quatro públicos e três privados. RESULTADOS: Do total, 38,78% eram procedentes do interior, com a idade variando de 1 a 97 anos. A maioria era adulto, jovem, solteiro do sexo masculino. O mecanismo de trauma mais comum foi acidente de trânsito, envolvendo 30,4% dos pacientes. O antebraço foi a região anatômica mais operada, correspondendo a 19%. CONCLUSÃO: Diante destes resultados, demonstramos a necessidade de incentivar medidas preventivas, como campanhas públicas de conscientização no trânsito, a fim de reduzir os acidentes. Verificamos também a importância de realizar investimentos no sentido de aprimorar os serviços de Emergência Traumatológica no interior do Ceará. Nível de evidência II, Estudo Transversal e Prospectivo (Estudo prospectivo de menor qualidade).
Análise tomográfica dos parâmetros anatômicos do áxis de crianças
Authors: Torelli Alessandro Gonzalez , Kohlmann Rafael Bellucci , Biraghi Olavo Letaif , Iutaka Alexandre Sadao , Cristante Alexandre Fogaça , Marcon Raphael Martus
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Estudo anatômico do áxis através de tomografia computadorizada (TC) em crianças de dois a dez anos de idade, mensurando a angulação das lâminas, espessura e comprimento de lâminas e pedículos e espessura da massa lateral. MÉTODOS: Estudou-se 64 TCs da coluna cervical de indivíduos com idades entre 24 e 120 meses, de ambos os sexos e sem deformidades cervicais. Correlacionaram-se as variáveis estudadas com os grupos etários e sexo dos pacientes. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio do teste t. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se que na faixa etária entre 24-48 meses, 5,5% das lâminas e 8,3% dos pedículos possuem espessura menores do que 3,5mm, espessura necessária para colocação de um parafuso. Entre 49-120 meses não há lâminas com espessuras menores do que 3,5mm e 1,2% dos pedículos possuem espessura menor do que 3,5mm. Em ambos os grupos etários não há comprimento de lâminas e pedículos menores do que 12 mm e massas laterais maiores do que 12 mm. CONCLUSÃO: A análise das dimensões obtidas no estudo permite, na maioria dos casos, a colocação de parafusos de 3,5mm nas lâminas e pedículos do áxis de crianças. Nível de Evidência II, Desenvolvimento de critérios diagnósticos em pacientes consecutivos.
Espondilolistese traumática do áxis: epidemiologia, conduta e evolução
Authors: Ferro Fernando Portilho , Borgo Gustavo Dias , Letaif Olavo Biraghi , Cristante Alexandre Fogaça , Marcon Raphael Martus , Iutaka Alexandre Sadao
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar casos de espondilolistese traumática do áxis e descrevê-los com relação à epidemiologia, classificação, déficit neurológico, tempo de consolidação e tratamento. MÉTODO: Análise retrospectiva dos prontuários dos pacientes tratado de 2002 a 2010 no IOT-HCFMUSP. Critério de inclusão: fratura da pars interarticularis de C2. RESULTADOS: 68% dos pacientes do sexo masculino com idade média de 39,1 anos. Utilizamos a classificação de Effendi, modificada por Levine-Edwards. Observamos fratura do tipo I em cinco pacientes (31,2%) e tipo II em oito pacientes (50%). Apenas três pacientes (18%) apresentaram fratura do tipo IIa. Não houve casos do tipo III. Mecanismo: Oito acidentes automobilísticos e quatro quedas. Outros mecanismos: atropelamento e mergulho. Tratamento: tração com halo craniano em onze pacientes. Foram usados gesso minerva e halo-gesso. Tempo de consolidação: 3,6 meses. Tempo de seguimento: 9,6 meses. DISCUSSÃO: Nossos resultados confirmam que fratura do enforcado apresenta bom prognóstico. Não houve necessidade de cirurgia em nenhum caso. A incidência de déficit neurológico é baixa. Nenhum paciente apresentou fratura instável, tipo III. CONCLUSÃO: Este trabalho sugere que a espondilolistese traumática do áxis continua sendo uma lesão satisfatoriamente tratada de forma conservadora na maioria dos casos. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.
Visualization of contact line motion on hydrophobic textures
Authors: Smyth Katherine M. , Paxson Adam T. , Kwon Hyuk-Min , Varanasi Kripa K.
Published: January 2013

Contact angle hysteresis (CAH) has important implications in a variety of natural and industrial applications. The contact line motion of Cassie drops on microtextured surfaces is directly visualized using high-magnification imaging and fluorescence microscopy. The advancing contact line is observed to glide smoothly over the micro-posts, whereas the receding contact line exhibits significant stick-slip. Using simultaneous measurements of drop width and contact angle, the authors quantify stick-slip amplitude and define contact width hysteresis. A new scaling is proposed for drop roll-off angle α wherein sinα is linearly proportional to the practical work of adhesion (1 + cosθr). This study provides insight into the dynamic nature of CAH and the design of superhydrophobic surfaces with optimal drop shedding.
Successful Grafting in a Patient With Recalcitrant Pemphigus: A Case Report
Authors: Stiefel Daniel B. , Saavedra Arturo , Elliott Jennifer A. , Reich Peter
Published: January 2013

Introduction: This article reports the successful management of a gingival graft in a patient with both oral manifestations of chronic systemic disease and oral sequelae of chemotherapy. In addition to proper clinical technique, a case such as this requires clear communication among health care providers and a sustained program of symptom‐specific oral hygiene.

Case Presentation: A patient with pemphigus vulgaris (PV) who was in remission after 7 years of treatment presented with a periodontal abscess. Concerned that a fatal infection could originate from the tooth in this immunocompromised patient, the treating physician referred the patient to a periodontist for a gingival graft. Throughout, candid communication among periodontist, physician, and patient produced improvements in an already deliberate approach to oral hygiene. In the presence of persistent chronic disease and associated oral inflammation, a patient‐specific oral‐hygiene regimen including non‐traditional methods can contribute to a successful outcome.

Conclusions: This successful procedure demonstrates that a history of PV is not a contraindication to periodontal surgery, such as grafting, as long as prophylactic immunosuppression, assiduous oral hygiene, and close clinical follow‐up are performed. A gingival graft is a viable procedure in patients with PV and can be another tool in the toolkit of treatments for mucocutaneous disorders.
Minimally Invasive Implant Surgery and Immediate Loading: Surgical and Prosthetic Techniques
Authors: Baumgarten Harold S. , Othman Badr
Published: January 2013

Introduction: Computerized tomography (CT)–guided implant surgery has been used to perform minimally invasive implant placement. In many cases, the procedure may be performed along with immediate restoration. Inaccuracies related to the CT scan itself and the surgical technique often result in implant positions which are slightly different from those that were planned. If immediate restoration and/or loading is desired, a prosthetic technique must be used that can easily account for this discrepancy.

Case Presentation: A 43‐year‐old male patient with a completely edentulous maxilla and mandible presented to the Periodontics Clinic at the University of Pennsylvania. Implants were placed in both the maxilla and mandible using a minimally invasive CT‐guided approach. The dentures that were fabricated for him were converted into fixed hybrid restorations at the time of surgery using two different techniques that took into account any discrepancy between the surgical plan and the actual placement.

Conclusions: With meticulous planning and appropriate prosthetic technique, CT‐guided surgery can be used to perform minimally invasive implant surgery and immediate restoration of edentulous jaws. This approach can provide lower morbidity along with a more accurate, fast, and convenient result for the patient.
Current Advances in the Use of Lasers in Periodontal Therapy: A Laser‐Assisted New Attachment Procedure Case Series
Authors: Brown I. Stephen
Published: January 2013

Introduction: The focus of periodontal surgical procedures has shifted over the past three decades from a philosophy based on resection (subtractive) to one of regeneration of lost tissues (additive). This shift has had particular significance in cases of advanced periodontitis. When a patient presents with severe attachment loss, regeneration cannot take place until the etiologic factors have been effectively managed or reversed and the disease progression arrested. Traditional surgical techniques have been successful in facilitating access and addressing the goal of “pocket elimination.” However, such surgical methods often result in unpleasant side effects, which can be painful and disfiguring. Clinicians have come to accept previous tissue breakdown as often irreversible. Additionally, the theory behind conventional pocket elimination was to produce an environment that promoted ongoing disease control by facilitating personal oral hygiene. At its best, traditional pocket surgery often falls short of achieving these goals and objectives. Additionally, conventional resective surgical techniques do not adequately address esthetic concerns, whereas surgical techniques, which are directed toward regeneration, have as their ideal outcome the preservation and/or restoration of lost periodontal tissues.

Case Series: This case series presents six clinical cases illustrating favorable results using laser‐assisted new attachment procedure. In all cases, mobility and other manifestations of occlusal pathology were assessed. Occlusion was carefully addressed and managed using a combination of procedures.

Conclusions: The results of recent research on a specific free‐running, pulsed neodymium‐doped:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Nd:YAG) laser suggest that this laser provides a viable alternative to traditional periodontal surgery. Properly applying the laser has been shown to produce less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. The Nd:YAG laser appears to address the cause of periodontal disease rather than the effects by specifically targeting identifiable periodontal pathogens. Regeneration of periodontal tissues is the gold standard by which dentists measure treatment effectiveness. Evidence has emerged that the Nd:YAG laser provides an enhanced method for achieving this elusive goal while eliminating many of the negative sequelae, which have been historically associated with conventional pocket elimination surgery. It should be noted that the information in the paper does not refer to all Nd:YAG lasers, but to one specific type of Nd:YAG laser. There are specific differences between individual YAG lasers, and this one is unique.
Factors Affecting Treatment Decisions and Outcomes of Root‐Resected Molars: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Yuh Da‐Yo , Cheng Guo‐Liang , Chien Wu‐Chien , Chung Chi‐Hsiang , Lin Fu‐Gong , Shieh Yi‐Shing , Fang Wen‐Hui , Mau Lian‐Ping , Fu Earl , Huang Ren‐Yeong
Published: January 2013

Background: Treatment of furcation‐involved molars presents a clinical challenge. This study retrospectively investigates the demographic parameters affecting treatment decisions and outcomes of root‐resected molars using a nationwide population‐based dataset.

Methods: De‐identified data from 471 eligible patients were obtained from a representative cohort composed of 1 million of Taiwan's population. Demographic factors that influence treatment decisions and outcomes of root‐resected teeth were examined. Cox regression was performed to statistically analyze the factors.

Results: The overall survival rate for root‐resected molars was 91.1%. The survival times of the extracted and surviving teeth were 303.0 ± 274.6 and 551.8 ± 327.2 days, respectively (P <0.001). The analyzed patient‐related factors, such as living district, urbanization level, medical institution, and monthly income, have remarkable influence on treatment decisions; however, there is no statistically significant difference in survival rate between root‐resected molars receiving flap surgery and those that do not (P = 0.504). After adjusting for other factors, patients aged >74 years have 3.33 times (hazard ratio = 3.33; 95% CI = 1.04 to 10.66; P = 0.043) higher rates of molar extraction than younger counterparts.

Conclusions: The overall survival rate of root‐resected molars was satisfactory. Patients with advanced age (>74 years) had a higher risk of extraction occurrence on resected molars. Patient‐related factors may influence the treatment decision of whether molars receive flap surgery. These findings suggest that demographic factors should be carefully evaluated before and after performing root‐resection procedures because these factors may eventually impact the outcome of root‐resected molars.
Soil Type and Rooting Depth Affect Hybrid Bermudagrass Injury with Preemergence Herbicides
Authors: Jones P. A. , Brosnan J. T. , Kopsell D. A. , Breeden G. K.
Published: January 2013

Applications of preemergence (PRE) herbicides can injure hybrid bermudagrass [C. dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy]. Research was conducted to determine the effects of soil texture and rooting depth on hybrid bermudagrass injury with two PRE herbicides. Washed ‘Tifway’ hybrid bermudagrass sod was established in mini‐rhizotrons. Treatments included the factorial combination of two soils (sand, silt loam), four herbicides (indaziflam at 35, 52.5, and 70 g ha−1 and prodiamine at 840 g ha−1), and three rooting depths (5, 10, and 15 cm). Averaged across both soils, foliar injury and reductions in root‐length density were greatest at rooting depths ≤15 cm. In a sand rootzone with no organic matter, significant foliar injury (23 to 48%) was observed with indaziflam; however, foliar injury with prodiamine measured ≤7%. In the silt loam rootzone, injury measured 0 to 17% with all herbicides. Data indicate that soil type and rooting depth affect hybrid bermudagrass injury with indaziflam; however, additional research is needed to determine if these glasshouse responses will be similar under field conditions. Differential effects on root function, as well as soil biological, chemical, and physical properties may also affect injury potential with indaziflam and prodiamine applications in sand rootzones. Additional research is needed to explore the effects of indaziflam and prodiamine on hybrid bermudagrass root physiological function in further detail.
TITANIUM ELASTIC NAIL - COMPLICATIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF PAEDIATRIC DIAPHYSEAL FRACTURE OF FEMUR§
Authors: Sarkar Saikat , Bandyopadhyay Ranadeb , Mukherjee Arindam
Published: January 2013

Background:

Femoral shaft fracture is the most common major paediatric orthopaedic. For generations traction and casting was the standard treatment for all femoral shaft fractures in children. Over the past two decades the advantages of fixation and rapid mobilisation have been increasingly recognised.

Methods:

A prospective study was conducted in five private hospitals in the district of Bankura, West Bengal over a period of two years (April 2010 to March 2012) on 70 patients with closed shaft femur fractures between 6- 14 years age of either sex. The aim was to find out the short term complications of titanium elastic nailing in diaphyseal fracture of femur in children and compare the findings of this study with pre- existing studies in this field.

Results:

In our study the most common complication was pain at nail entry site (60%). 5.71% had local inflammatory reaction due to nails. Superficial infection occurred in 2.85%. At the end of 1 year, 2.85% had limb length discripancies. Proximal migration occurred in 2.85%. 2.85% encountered acute reactive synovitis, 5.71% developed angulation of fracture site and 2.85% developed per operative breakage of nail.

Conclusion:

The treatment of paediatric shaft femur fracture has been drastically changed over the last two decades to internal fixation by elastically stable intra- medullary nail (ESIN). In our study, we encountered only a few complications most of them being minor. Most of the complications were surgical technique related and were seen at the initial phase of the learning curve.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Reduce Adipose Tissue Macrophages in Human Subjects With Insulin Resistance
Authors: Spencer Michael , Finlin Brian S. , Unal Resat , Zhu Beibei , Morris Andrew J. , Shipp Lindsey R. , Lee Jonah , Walton R. Grace , Adu Akosua , Erfani Rod , Campbell Marilyn , McGehee Robert E. , Peterson Charlotte A. , Kern Philip A.
Published: January 2013

Fish oils (FOs) have anti-inflammatory effects and lower serum triglycerides. This study examined adipose and muscle inflammatory markers after treatment of humans with FOs and measured the effects of ω-3 fatty acids on adipocytes and macrophages in vitro. Insulin-resistant, nondiabetic subjects were treated with Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters (4 g/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Plasma macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) levels were reduced by FO, but the levels of other cytokines were unchanged. The adipose (but not muscle) of FO-treated subjects demonstrated a decrease in macrophages, a decrease in MCP-1, and an increase in capillaries, and subjects with the most macrophages demonstrated the greatest response to treatment. Adipose and muscle ω-3 fatty acid content increased after treatment; however, there was no change in insulin sensitivity or adiponectin. In vitro, M1-polarized macrophages expressed high levels of MCP-1. The addition of ω-3 fatty acids reduced MCP-1 expression with no effect on TNF-α. In addition, ω-3 fatty acids suppressed the upregulation of adipocyte MCP-1 that occurred when adipocytes were cocultured with macrophages. Thus, FO reduced adipose macrophages, increased capillaries, and reduced MCP-1 expression in insulin-resistant humans and in macrophages and adipocytes in vitro; however, there was no measureable effect on insulin sensitivity.
Histological Findings in Unclassified Sudden Infant Death, Including Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Authors: Liebrechts-Akkerman Germaine , Bovee Judith V.M.G. , Wijnaendts Liliane C.D. , Maes Ann , Nikkels Peter G.J. , de Krijger Ronald R.
Published: January 2013

Our objective was to study histological variations and abnormalities in unclassified sudden infant death (USID), including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), in The Netherlands. Two hundred Dutch USID cases between 1984 and 2005 were identified. The histology slides and autopsy reports of 187 cases were available for systematic review, including brain autopsy in 135 cases. An explanation for the cause of death in 19 patients (10.2%) was found. Twelve patients had bronchopneumonia, 3 showed extensive aspiration, 2 had signs of a metabolic disorder, 1 had sepsis, and 1 had meningitis. Frequent nonspecific findings were congestion (66%), edema (47%), small hemorrhages (18%), and lymphoid aggregates (51%) in the lungs; congestion of the liver (23%); and asphyctic bleeding in the kidney (44%), adrenal gland (23%), and thymus (17%). Statistical associations were found for infection with starry sky macrophages in the thymus ( P = 0.004), with calcification ( P = 0.023), or with debris in the Hassal's corpuscles ( P = 0.034). In this study, in 10.2% of cases the histological findings were incompatible with SIDS or USID. Furthermore, several frequent nonspecific histological findings in the thymus that point toward an infection were found.
Roles of Myofibroblasts and Notch and Hedgehog Signaling Pathways in the Formation of Intrahepatic Bile Duct Lesions in Polycystic Kidney Rats
Authors: Furubo Shinichi , Sato Yasunori , Harada Kenichi , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: January 2013

Polycystic kidney (PCK) rats, an animal model of Caroli's disease, show a dilatation of intrahepatic bile ducts (IHBD) called “ductal plate malformation.” Mesenchymal cells and the Notch and Hedgehog signaling pathways in portal tracts are reportedly involved in the normal development of IHBD, although there have been no studies on the roles of these signaling pathways in PCK rats. We immunohistochemically examined the expression of the molecules related to these signaling pathways in portal tracts. All molecules related to these signaling pathways expressed in portal tracts in Sprague Dawley (SD) rats (control) were also expressed in PCK rats. Mesenchymal cells (myofibroblasts) were frequently found in the connective tissue of portal tracts of 20 embryonic-day-old (E20D), 1-day-old (1D), and 1-week-old (1W) SD and PCK rats and were abundant in PCK rats. Interestingly, myofibroblasts almost disappeared at in both strains of 3W rats. Jagged1 was expressed in mesenchymal cells in portal tracts and was abundant in PCK rats. Double immunostaining showed that Jagged1-positive cells were myofibroblasts. Notch2 and HES1 were expressed in cholangiocytes of the bile ducts of both rats. Sonic Hedgehog was similarly expressed in the bile ducts of both rats. A well-balanced and time-sequential expression of the Notch and Hedgehog family in portal tracts might be essential for the normal development of IHBD in E20D to 1W SD rats, and an imbalanced interaction of these molecules, particularly increased Jagged1 expression in periductal and periportal myofibroblasts and Notch2 expressed in cholangiocytes, may be involved in the formation of bile duct lesions in PCK rats.
Ethanol Withdrawal-Associated Drinking and Drinking in the Dark: Common and Discrete Genetic Contributions
Authors: Crabbe John C. , Metten Pamela , Huang Lawrence C. , Schlumbohm Jason P. , Spence Stephanie E. , Barkley-Levenson Amanda M. , Finn Deborah A. , Rhodes Justin S. , Cameron Andy J.
Published: January 2013

Ethanol Withdrawal-Associated Drinking and Drinking in the Dark: Common and Discrete Genetic Contributions

Individual mice differ in the dose of ethanol they will ingest voluntarily when it is offered during limited access periods in the circadian dark, a phenotype called drinking in the dark (DID). Substantial genetic variation in DID has been reported across a few standard inbred mouse strains, and a line of High Drinking in the Dark (HDID) mice has been established through selective breeding on the blood ethanol concentration (BEC) they attain at the end of a drinking session. Here, we report ethanol DID data for 23 inbred mouse strains, including 11 not previously reported, corroborating the genetic contributions to this trait. We also report data on a different ethanol drinking trait, the increased intake seen after multiple cycles of chronic intermittent exposure to ethanol vapor (CIE). Drinking escalated significantly during ethanol withdrawal. However, HDID mice and their HS controls showed equivalent escalation during withdrawal, demonstrating that withdrawal-associated drinking escalation is not a clear genetic correlate of selection on DID. Across inbred strains, DID is substantially genetically correlated with previously-published twobottle ethanol preference drinking data assessed under conditions of continuous ethanol access. Although inbred strain data for withdrawalassociated drinking are not available, the current pattern of results suggests that withdrawal-associated drinking is genetically distinct from DID, while genetic contributions to DID and two-bottle preference drinking are substantially similar.
Compactness of Special Functions of Bounded Higher
Variation
Authors: Ambrosio Luigi , Ghiraldin Francesco
Published: January 2013

Given an open set Ω ⊂ Rm and n > 1, we introduce the new spaces GBnV(Ω) of Generalized functions of bounded higher variation and GSBnV(Ω) of Generalized special functions of bounded higher variation that generalize, respectively, the space BnV introduced by Jerrard and Soner in [43] and the corresponding SBnV space studied by De Lellis in [24]. In this class of spaces, which allow as in [43] the description of singularities of codimension n, the distributional jacobian Ju need not have ﬁnite mass: roughly speaking, ﬁniteness of mass is not required for the (m−n)-dimensional part of Ju, but only ﬁniteness of size. In the space GSBnV we are able to provide compactness of sublevel sets and lower semicontinuity of Mumford-Shah type functionals, in the same spirit of the codimension 1 theory [5,6].
Conformal Geometry and the Composite Membrane
Problem
Authors: Chanillo Sagun
Published: January 2013

We show that a certain eigenvalue minimization problem in
two dimensions for the Laplace operator in conformal classes
is equivalent to the composite membrane problem. We again
establish such a link in higher dimensions for eigenvalue problems
stemming from the critical GJMS operators. New free
boundary problems of unstable type arise in higher dimensions
linked to the critical GJMS operator. In dimension four,
the critical GJMS operator is exactly the Paneitz operator.
A Non-Probabilistic Proof of the Assouad Embedding
Theorem with Bounds on the Dimension
Authors: David Guy , Snipes Marie
Published: January 2013

We give a non-probabilistic proof of a theorem of Naor
and Neiman that asserts that if (E, d) is a doubling metric
space, there is an integer N > 0, depending only on
the metric doubling constant, such that for each exponent
α ∈ (1/2; 1), one can find a bilipschitz mapping
F = (E; dα ) ⃗ ℝ RN.
Colon specific delivery of budesonide based on triple coated pellets: in vitro/in vivo evaluation
Authors: Varshosaz Jaleh , Emami Jaber , Tavakoli Naser , Minaiyan Mohsen , Rahmani Nakisa , Dorkoosh Farid , Mahzouni Parvin
Published: January 2013

Three layered pellets of budesonide were prepared for colon delivery by the extrusion-spheronization method. The coatings consisted of hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC) (as barrier layer), Eudragit E (as rate controlling layer) and hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose acetate succinate (HPMC AS) (as enteric layer). The rate controlling layer was further modified using various pore formers. Dissolution studies were carried out at pH 1.2, 7.4 and 6.8. Pellet core composition and type and level of pore former affected the drug release from pellets. Pellets containing 20 % (m/m) citric acid in the cores coated with HPMC at a coating level of 6 % (m/m), Eudragit E containing Avicel RC 581 (30 %) as pore former at a coating level of 30 % (m/m) and HPMC AS at a coating level of 15 % (m/m) had the best release profiles. These pellets showed promising results in alleviating the conditions of an experimental model of colitis induced by trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid in rats.
In vitro antioxidant activity of stem bark of Trichilia catigua Adr. Juss
Authors: Kamdem Jean Paul , Stefanello Sílvio Terra , Boligon Aline Augusti , Wagner Caroline , Kade Ige Joseph , Pereira Romaiana Picada , Preste Alessandro De Souza , Roos Daniel Henrique , Waczuk Emily Pansera , Appel Andre Storti , Athayde Margareth Linde , Souza Diogo Onofre , Rocha João Batista Teixeira
Published: January 2013

Antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extract and fractions from the stem bark of T. catigua was investigated. IC50 (for DPPH scavenging) by T. catigua varied from 9.17 ± 0.63 to 76.42 ± 5.87 mg mL-1 and total phenolic content varied from 345.63 ± 41.08 to 601.27 ± 42.59 mg GAE g-1 of dry extract. Fe2+-induced lipid peroxidation was significantly reduced by the ethanolic extract and fractions. Mitochondrial Ca2+-induced dichlorofluorescein oxidation was significantly reduced by the ethanolic extract in a concentration-dependent manner. Ethanolic extract reduced mitochondrial Dym only at high concentrations (40-100 mg mL-1), which indicates that its toxicity does not overlap with its antioxidant effects. Results suggest involvement of antioxidant activities of T. catigua in its pharmacological properties.
Improved photostability, reduced skin permeation and irritation of isotretinoin by solid lipid nanoparticles / Povećana fotostabilnost, smanjena permeacija i iritacija izotretinoina iz kruto-tekućih nanočestica
Authors: Shiva Golmohammadzadeh , Somaye Mortezania , Reza Jaafari Mahmoud
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to develop new solid lipid nanoparticles of isotretinoin (IT-SLNs) and evaluate the ability of IT-SLNs to improve photostability, reduce skin permeation and irritating effects. IT-SLNs were prepared by the hot high pressure homogenization method. Size, zeta potential and morphological characteristics of the preparations were assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and thermotropic properties with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). IT-SLNs had a small average diameter of 74.05 ± 8.91 nm and high encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 80.6 ± 1.2 %. The results showed that the entrapment of IT into SLNs reduced significantly its photodegradation. The in vitro permeation data showed that IT-SLNs can accumulate in the different layers of the skin and prevent systemic uptake of IT in mouse skin. IT-SLNs also significantly increased IT accumulation in the different layers of the stratum corneum of human skin. IT-SLN formulation was significantly less irritating compared to commercial IT-GEL, which shows its potential for improving skin tolerability and being a carrier for topical delivery of IT.
Study of EGNOS safety of life service during the period of solar maximum activity
Authors: Grzegorzewski Marek , Swiatek Anna , Oszczak Stanislaw , Ciecko Adam , Cwiklak Janusz
Published: January 2013

The Satellite Base Augmentation System (SBAS) - EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service) has been certified for Safety of Life (SoL) service for aircraft navigation since 2nd of March 2011. Unfortunately for the territory of Poland, located at the edge of EGNOS service area, the quality of the service corrections are still not sufficient for aircraft navigation requirements. Years 2012 and 2013 are forecasted as a maximum of solar activity in a 11-year solar cycle. This time period will be the chance to perform the first tests for the EGNOS Safety of Life service quality in disturbed ionospheric conditions. During the previous maximum of solar activity, the storm on 30 October 2003 resulted in the inability to use WAAS corrections for more than 12 hours. This was caused by a very large gradient of disturbances and its’ very sharp boundaries - vertical TEC (VTEC) varied from ~ 40 to ~ 120 TECU (TEC units) within an hour (over ~ 150 km distance). These circumstances gave the opportunity to carry out the test flights to examine the navigation parameters obtained for EGNOS SoL service in disturbed ionospheric conditions. The paper presents project proposal of study and analyses of such fundamental navigation parameters as: accuracy of determined position, availability, continuity and integrity, determined for selected disturbances in relation to quiet conditions. It can give a possibility to estimate of the quality of EGNOS SoL service in Polish airspace during the different phases of flight and its resistance to critical ionospheric conditions.
Antenna calibration models in height determinations in ASG-EUPOS’ POZGEO-D service – a case study
Authors: Dawidowicz Karol
Published: January 2013

GNSS observations in a network of permanent stations are a complex systems which offer both post-processing and corrections sent in real-time. In Poland such a system, known as the Polish Active Geodetic Network (ASG-EUPOS), has been in operation since June 2008. The GNSS development forces also continuous modernization of ASG-EUPOS (e.g.: GPS/GLONASS receivers mounting, ASG+ project) which aims to improve the accuracy of position determination. One of the factors limiting the accuracy (especially the vertical component) is antenna phase center variations (PCV) problem.

PCV problem is resolved using the antenna calibration process. As a result, antenna phase center corrections models (PCC) are created. So far three methods have been developed to determine GNSS antenna PCV. For this reason and because of some problems in introducing of absolute models at present we can speak of three models of receiver antennas PCV (so called: relative, absolute converted and absolute).

The aim of this paper was to study the height differences caused by using different calibration models in GNSS observation processing done in the ASG-EUPOS POZGEO-D service. The analysis was done using 3 days of GNSS data, collected with four different receivers and antennas, divided by one hour observation sessions. The results of the calculations show that switching between PCV models may have a visible effect on height determination, particularly in high accuracy applications.
In vitro antifungal activity of three Saudi plant extracts against some Phytopathogenic fungi
Authors: Al-Askar Abdul Aziz A.
Published: January 2013

The antifungal activities of ethanolic extracts of three Saudi plants; camel thorn (Alhagi maurorum Medic.), caper (Capparisspinosa L.), and pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) were investigated in vitro against Alternaria alternata, Fusarium oxysporum, Phomadestructiva, Rhizoctonia solani, and Sclerotium rolfsii at concentrations of 0, 3, 6, and 9% (v/v). All tested plant extracts; seeds, roots, and rinds had different degrees of antifungal activity against the tested fungi. When compared with the control, the highest antifungal activity was recorded for camel thorn seeds extract at a concentration of 9%, while, pomegranate rinds extract at 9% came in second. Camel thorn rinds extract came in last even when used at a high concentration. The ethanolic extract of camel thorn seeds may be recommended as a potent bio-fungicide. Extensive studies should be undertaken for the ethanolic extract of camel thorn seeds as a strong antifungal agent against fungal plant diseases.
Monitoring methods and prognosis of Opomyza Florum Fabr. (Diptera: Opomyzidae) – a pest of wheat in Bulgaria
Authors: Krusteva Hristina , Karadjova Olia , Ventsislavov Ventsislav
Published: January 2013

The effect of sowing dates on the abundance of Opomyza florum, and the effect of sowing dates on the degree of larvae damage on winter wheat during the 2003-2008 time period was evaluated. The population density of O. florum adults and the damage larvae caused, were higher in the wheat fields sown in the last decade of September and the first half of October. Fields sown during the first decade of November were not infested by O. florum. A significant correlation between the mean temperature during the flight period and the maximum density of O. florum flies within each sowing (r = 0.94; p = 0.016) was established. The percentage of damaged shoots strongly corresponded to the maximum abundance of flies (r = 0.96; p = 0.01). The corresponding figures can be used for prognostic purposes. An adult observation accuracy below 25% was achieved by the sweep net method using 10 samples of 30 sweeps in the beginning of migration and 10 samples of 20 sweeps during the period of the O. florum mass flight. No marginal effect of adults was observed.