bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal stem cell migration is regulated by fibronectin through α5β1-integrin-mediated activation of PDGFR-β and potentiation of growth factor signals
Authors: Veevers-Lowe Jennifer , Ball Stephen G. , Shuttleworth Adrian , Kielty Cay M.
Published: March 2011

Cell migration during vascular remodelling is regulated by crosstalk between growth factor receptors and integrin receptors, which together coordinate cytoskeletal and motogenic changes. Here, we report extracellular matrix (ECM)-directed crosstalk between platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)-β and α5β1-integrin, which controls the migration of mesenchymal stem (stromal) cells (MSCs). Cell adhesion to fibronectin induced α5β1-integrin-dependent phosphorylation of PDGFR-β in the absence of growth factor stimulation. Phosphorylated PDGFR-β co-immunoprecipitated with α5-integrin and colocalised with α5β1-integrin in the transient tidemarks of focal adhesions. Adhesion to fibronectin also strongly potentiated PDGF-BB-induced PDGFR-β phosphorylation and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) activity, in an α5β1-integrin-dependent manner. PDGFR-β-induced phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and Akt activity, actin reorganisation and cell migration were all regulated by fibronectin and α5β1-integrin. This synergistic relationship between α5β1-integrin and PDGFR-β is a fundamental determinant of cell migration. Thus, fibronectin-rich matrices can prime PDGFR-β to recruit mesenchymal cells at sites of vascular remodelling.
A central multifunctional role of integrin-linked kinase at muscle attachment sites
Authors: Zervas Christos G. , Psarra Eleni , Williams Victoria , Solomon Esther , Vakaloglou Katerina M. , Brown Nicholas H.
Published: March 2011

Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is an essential component of a multiprotein complex that links actin to the plasma membrane. Here, we have used a genetic approach to examine the molecular interactions that are essential for the assembly of this ILK-containing complex at Drosophila muscle attachment sites (MASs). We show that, downstream of integrins, talin plays a decisive role in the recruitment of three proteins: ILK, PINCH and paxillin. The accumulation of ILK at MASs appears to follow an amplification mechanism, suggesting that numerous binding sites are generated by minimal levels of the upstream integrin and talin effectors. This property suggests that ILK functions as an essential hub in the assembly of its partner proteins at sites of integrin adhesion. We found that PINCH stability, and its subcellular localization at MASs, depends upon ILK function, but that ILK stability and localization is not dependent upon PINCH. An in vivo structure–function analysis of ILK demonstrated that each ILK domain has sufficient information for its independent recruitment at embryonic MASs, whereas at later developmental stages only the kinase domain was effectively recruited. Our data strengthen the view that the ILK complex is assembled sequentially at sites of integrin adhesion by employing multiple molecular interactions, which collectively stabilize the integrin–actin link.
Disability: a welfarist approach
Authors: Savulescu Julian , Kahane Guy
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we offer a new account of disability. According to our account, some state of a person's biology or psychology is a disability if that state makes it more likely that a person's life will get worse, in terms of his or her own wellbeing, in a given set of social and environmental circumstances. Unlike the medical model of disability, our welfarist approach does not tie disability to deviation from normal species’ functioning, nor does it understand disability in essentialist terms. Like the social model of disability, the welfarist approach sees disability as a harmful state that results from the interaction between a person's biology and psychology and his or her surrounding environment. However, unlike the social model, it denies that the harm associated with disability is entirely due to social prejudice or injustice. In this paper, we outline and clarify the welfarist approach, answer common objections and illustrate its usefulness in addressing a range of difficult ethical questions involving disability.
Institutional Multiplicity in Practice: A Tale of Two High-Tech Conferences in Israel
Authors: Zilber Tammar B.
Published: March 2011

In this paper I uncover the routine, ongoing practices that sustain institutional multiplicity. Drawing on a comparative study of the two high-tech conferences held in Israel in 2002, I examine how diverse institutions are discursively handled in field-configuring events. Institutional multiplicity was expressed at this site through two identity discourses, one that situated the industry within a national context and another that oriented it toward the global markets. In addition, the conferences were constructed around different best-practice discourses that focused on guidelines for either investment or management. These four discourses reflected and further affected power relations between the field's actors, and they were differentially distributed across separate social spaces between the conferences and within them. The contribution of this study to our understanding of institutional multiplicity lies in demonstrating how it is maintained in practice, politically negotiated between actors, and refracted across separate social spaces.
A Questionnaire-Based Survey of Patient Satisfaction with Dental Care at Two General Dental Practice Locations
Authors: Saleh Fahd , Dyer Peter V
Published: March 2011

Aim

The aim of this study was to survey patient satisfaction with dental care delivered in general practice and to compare the results with those obtained five years earlier using the same questionnaire.

Methodology

A previously piloted patient satisfaction questionnaire was distributed to consecutive adult patients of one dentist at two general dental practices on completion of restorative or surgical treatment. The results were compared with those achieved by the same dentist using the same questionnaire five years previously during vocational training (VT).

Results

Thirty-nine questionnaires were distributed at one practice and 31 at the second. Thirty (77%) were returned at the first practice and 23 (74%) at the second. There were no statistically significant differences in answers to the questions between the two practices. The two sets of results were combined and compared with results from the previous survey. There was a statistically significant improvement ( P<0.05) since the first survey for attributes relating to conveying cost information. There was a moderate correlation between patient perception of professionalism, oral hygiene advice and empathy and the patient's intent on returning for further services and recommending the dentist to others.

Conclusion

It appeared that patient satisfaction with dental care marginally increased with postgraduate experience gained over five years since VT by the dentist concerned. Patients’ perception of the quality of dental care provision and their intent on re-accessing a dental service may be associated with a practitioner's professionalism, empathy and delivery of oral hygiene advice.
The Feasibility of Data Collection in Dental Practices, Using Codes for the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS), to Allow European General Dental Practitioners to Monitor Dental Caries at Local, National, and International Levels
Authors: Bonner Brian C , Bourgeois Denis M , Douglas Gail V , Chan Karen , Pitts Nigel B
Published: March 2011

Aim

To determine whether or not European general dental practitioners can carry out comprehensive dental caries assessments of the teeth of selected quotas of their patients during routine dental check-ups, as an alternative or complement to the work of specialised, salaried, dental epidemiologists.

Methods

Dentists from several European countries were invited by local coordinators to be trained to carry out dental disease assessments. For caries, they used the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS), as part of a wider oral health indicators project with a European perspective. They attended training events and recruited and examined patients in their own practices before completing questionnaires, which they returned to a central data-processing facility.

Results

Ninety-six dentists returned questionnaires giving their opinions of the data-collection system after performing ICDAS assessments on 1216 patients. Mean times for assessments varied between countries from 7.8 to 14.06 minutes and were dependent on the age of the patient and the number and general condition of the teeth present. Given a choice of six difficulty/ease options for both understanding and applying the system, 89% of the dental examiners chose one of the two categories indicating the least difficulty for understanding and 73% chose one of these two categories for applying.

Conclusion

Volunteer general dental practitioners (GDPs) from six European countries were able successfully to perform data collection for survey work in addition to their routine practice. If larger numbers of GDPs across Europe are prepared to undertake this type of work for selected quota samples, it should be possible to collect data to monitor caries levels among patients who attend dental practices at local, national, and international levels, provided that the time taken is considered and remunerated appropriately.
Reference change values for monitoring dehydration
Authors: Cheuvront Samuel N. , Fraser Callum G. , Kenefick Robert W. , Ely Brett R. , Sawka Michael N.
Published: March 2011

Background: Dehydration is a common medical problem requiring heuristic evaluation. Our aim was to develop a quantitative and graphical tool based on serial changes in either plasma osmolality (Posm), urine specific gravity (Usg), or body mass (Bm) to aid in determining the probability that a person has become dehydrated. A secondary purpose was to validate use of the tool by dehydrating a group of volunteers.

Methods: Basic data were obtained from a recent study of biological variation in common hydration status markers. Four reference change values (RCV) were calculated for each variable (Posm, Usg, Bm) using four statistical probabilities (0.80, 0.90, 0.95, and 0.99). The probability derived from the Z-score for any given change can be calculated from: Z=change/[21/2(CVa
2+CVi
2)1/2]. This calculation was simplified to require one input (measured change) by plotting the RCV against probability to generate both an empirical equation and a dual quantitative-qualitative graphic.

Results: Eleven volunteers were dehydrated by moderate levels (–2.1% to –3.5% Bm). Actual probabilities were obtained by substituting measured changes in Posm, Usg, and Bm for X in the exponential equation, Y=1–e
–K·X, where each variable has a unique K constant. Median probabilities were 0.98 (Posm), 0.97 (Usg), and 0.97 (Bm), which aligned with ‘very likely’ to ‘virtually certain’ qualitative probability categories for dehydration.

Conclusions: This investigation provides a simple quantitative and graphical tool that can aid in determining the probability that a person has become dehydrated when serial measures of Posm, Usg, or Bm are made.
Optisches Extensometer zur Verfolgung propagierender Verformungsbänder
Authors: Dierke Hanno , Fischer Marc , Casarotto Leobaldo , Tutsch Rainer
Published: March 2011

Der Portevin-LeChatelier-Effekt (PLC-Effekt) bezeichnet Instabilitäten der plastischen Verformung von Legierungen. In bestimmten Bereichen von Verformungsrate und Temperatur erfolgt die ansonsten homogene Verformung des Materials lokalisiert in schmalen Zonen, die PLC-Bänder genannt werden. Da die PLC-Bänder sehr schnell auftreten, ist ein System mit hoher zeitlicher und räumlicher Auflösung erforderlich, um die Vorgänge bei der Entstehung gründlich zu untersuchen. In diesem Artikel wird ein neues Testsystem zur Beobachtung des PLC-Effekts präsentiert. Es besteht neben einer Zugmaschine aus einer Zeilenkamera zur globalen Beobachtung der Zugprobe sowie einer Hochgeschwindigkeitskamera mit hoher Vergrößerung zur lokalen Beobachtung mit hoher zeitlicher und räumlicher Auflösung. Durch Analyse der Daten der Zeilenkamera ist die Bestimmung der Position auftretender PLC-Bänder möglich. Diese Information wird dazu genutzt, die nur einen Teil der Zugprobe beobachtende Hochgeschwindigkeitskamera auszulösen bzw. einem über die Probe propagierenden Band nachzuführen.
Messaufnahmen für die Vermessung von Hochfrequenz-Filtern
Authors: Draheim Robert , Kiwitt Jürgen , Pitschi Maximilian , Scholl Gerd
Published: March 2011

Die exakte Charakterisierung von Hochfrequenzfiltern mit Isolationen bis zu −60 dB stellt eine große messtechnische Herausforderung dar. Hierfür müssen die elektromagnetischen Wechselwirkungen der Messaufnahmen mit den Hochfrequenzbauelementen exakt analysiert und anschließend durch Anpassung der Messaufnahmengeometrien auf ein Minimum reduziert werden.
The Impact of Social Media on Children, Adolescents, and Families
Authors: O'Keeffe Gwenn Schurgin , Clarke-Pearson Kathleen ,   Council on Communications and Media
Published: March 2011

Using social media Web sites is among the most common activity of today's children and adolescents. Any Web site that allows social interaction is considered a social media site, including social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter; gaming sites and virtual worlds such as Club Penguin, Second Life, and the Sims; video sites such as YouTube; and blogs. Such sites offer today's youth a portal for entertainment and communication and have grown exponentially in recent years. For this reason, it is important that parents become aware of the nature of social media sites, given that not all of them are healthy environments for children and adolescents. Pediatricians are in a unique position to help families understand these sites and to encourage healthy use and urge parents to monitor for potential problems with cyberbullying, “Facebook depression,” sexting, and exposure to inappropriate content.
Reframing the debate over assisted colonization
Authors: Lawler Joshua J , Olden Julian D
Published: March 2011

Assisted colonization – also known as managed relocation or assisted migration – is one way of facilitating range shifts for species that are restricted in their ability to move in response to climate or other environmental changes. Over the past decade, a healthy debate has evolved in the scientific community over the costs and benefits of assisted colonization as a climate‐adaptation strategy. This discussion has focused largely on the specific risks and benefits of intentionally moving species, and has led to the development of multiple frameworks and numerous recommendations for weighing and evaluating these factors. Here, we argue that this debate is, in part, misguided, and that a more productive discussion would result if the issue were reframed in light of (1) the goals of assisted colonization, (2) the realities of projected climate impacts, and (3) the use of complementary adaptation strategies, such as enhancing landscape connectivity.
Rigs‐to‐reefs: will the deep sea benefit from artificial habitat?
Authors: Macreadie Peter I , Fowler Ashley M , Booth David J
Published: March 2011

As a peak in the global number of offshore oil rigs requiring decommissioning approaches, there is growing pressure for the implementation of a “rigs‐to‐reefs” program in the deep sea, whereby obsolete rigs are converted into artificial reefs. Such decommissioned rigs could enhance biological productivity, improve ecological connectivity, and facilitate conservation/restoration of deep‐sea benthos (eg cold‐water corals) by restricting access to fishing trawlers. Preliminary evidence indicates that decommissioned rigs in shallower waters can also help rebuild declining fish stocks. Conversely, potential negative impacts include physical damage to existing benthic habitats within the “drop zone”, undesired changes in marine food webs, facilitation of the spread of invasive species, and release of contaminants as rigs corrode. We discuss key areas for future research and suggest alternatives to offset or minimize negative impacts. Overall, a rigs‐to‐reefs program may be a valid option for deep‐sea benthic conservation.
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Authors: Murray Katy
Published: March 2011

The Clinical column is a regular Journal of EMDR Practice and Research feature in which master clinicians answer a question posed by a reader who is requesting assistance with clinical challenges. In this issue’s column, the response is written by Katy Murray, who is a licensed independent clinical social worker and an EMDRIA-approved consultant in Olympia, Washington. Readers can send questions for future issues to journal@emdria.org.
A Hybrid E-Learning Model Incorporating Some of the Principal Learning Theories
Authors: Tsai August
Published: March 2011

In the context of e-learning many learning theories used in the physical classroom situation, including learning in a community adaptive, collaborative, scaffolding, and scenario learning, have been adopted and validated. Based on these learning theories, an electronic platform and
set of procedures for applying a hybrid e-learning model to an internationally accredited training course in industry was explored, developed, and evaluated for this study. This hybrid e-learning system provided electronic, illustration, group learning, comprehension, and workshop learning
units and complied with the training objectives of the designated course. The validation of this model was positive and the results indicated that the proposed hybrid e-learning course could be further improved by taking into consideration individual learners' attributes.
Measuring Collectivism and Individualism in the Third Millennium
Authors: Shulruf Boaz , Alesi Marianna , Ciochină Laura , Faria Luisa , Hattie John , Hong Fu , Pepi Anna-Maria , Watkins David
Published: March 2011

The aim in this study was to validate the Auckland Individualism-Collectivism Scale (AICS) across populations from 5 different countries and identify better ways to interpret the scores. Data were collected from New Zealand, Portugal, China, Italy, and Romania. The results indicate
that the AICS is not only valid but also highly reliable (α > .70). Cluster analysis identified 4 clusters: low collectivism – high individualism; high collectivism – midlevel individualism; high collectivism – high individualism; and low collectivism – low
individualism. Each group included individuals from all 4 clusters. The advantages of the AICS, the use of cluster analysis in cross-cultural measures, and the importance of these measures within the psychoeducational context are discussed.
The Perceived Risks of Online Shopping in Taiwan
Authors: Pi Shih-Ming , Sangruang Jirapa
Published: March 2011

Perceived risks are explored in relation to Internet shopping with a sample of 222 people from Taiwan who had used online shopping sites. Findings have differed as to the perceived risks of online shopping websites. The aim in this study was to examine convenience, financial, performance,
physical, physiological, social, and time risks, when considering shopping on Internet sites. The research model was tested using the partial least squares approach. The results show the perceived risk factors that have the greatest effect on the attitude toward online shopping in Taiwan are
convenience, physical, performance, and social factors.
Interrogating ‘Belonging’ in Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia
Authors: Sumsion Jennifer , Wong Sandie
Published: March 2011

In this article, the authors interrogate the use of ‘belonging’ in Belonging, Being and Becoming: the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF), Australia's first national curriculum for early childhood education and care settings and, from the authors' interrogation, possibilities are offered for thinking about and working with the EYLF in critical and transformative ways. In order to scaffold their interrogation, the authors develop a cartography of understandings of belonging drawn from diverse disciplinary and theoretical perspectives. The cartography highlights multiple, interconnected dimensions (ways of belonging) and analytical axes (dynamics and politics of belonging). The analysis indicates direct or implicit reference in the EYLF to many dimensions of belonging, but an apparent silence about the politics of belonging. The authors argue that the silences should not be interpreted as apolitical, but rather as a strategic response to political pressures shaping the EYLF's development.
How the Early Years Learning Framework Can Help Shift Pervasive Beliefs of the Social and Emotional Capabilities of Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Salamon Andi
Published: March 2011

The introduction of Belonging, Being and Becoming: the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (EYLF) offers the potential for a change in collective thinking about the social and emotional capabilities of infants and toddlers. Classical theories of young children's development have held that infants and toddlers are egocentric in being and engage predominantly in solitary play. Common perceptions of important social behaviours such as social and emotional perception, action and understanding are thought to develop primarily in the preschool years. Grounded in an image of the child as able to contribute to his or her own learning, the strong theoretical base of the EYLF affords a view of infants and toddlers as intentional and active participants in their world. This article explores popular societal misconceptions of the social and emotional capacities of infants and toddlers, and uses both psychological and contextual research to put forth a more accurate view. Reflection on the philosophical grounding of the EYLF shows the place of infants and toddlers within it, while examples in practice of observations of children and interpretations of educators help support this. Discussion of a strengths-based view of using the EYLF to document and communicate the learning of infants and toddlers shows how early childhood professionals can act as advocates to reconceptualise towards a common view of infants and toddlers as active learners.
Rapid Tachyphylaxis of the Glucagon-Like Peptide 1–Induced Deceleration of Gastric Emptying in Humans
Authors: Nauck Michael A. , Kemmeries Guido , Holst Jens J. , Meier Juris J.
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 lowers postprandial glycemia primarily through inhibition of gastric emptying. We addressed whether the GLP-1–induced deceleration of gastric emptying is subject to rapid tachyphylaxis and if so, how this would alter postprandial glucose control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Nine healthy volunteers (25 ± 4 years old, BMI: 24.6 ± 4.7 kg/m2) were examined with intravenous infusion of GLP-1 (0.8 pmol · kg−1 . min−1) or placebo over 8.5 h. Two liquid mixed meals were administered at a 4-h interval. Gastric emptying was determined, and blood samples were drawn frequently.

RESULTS

GLP-1 decelerated gastric emptying significantly more after the first meal compared with the second meal (P = 0.01). This was associated with reductions in pancreatic polypeptide levels (marker of vagal activation) after the first but not the second meal (P < 0.05). With GLP-1, glucose concentrations declined after the first meal but increased after the second meal (P < 0.05). The GLP-1–induced reductions in postprandial insulin and C-peptide levels were stronger during the first meal course (P < 0.05). Likewise, glucagon levels were lowered by GLP-1 after the first meal but increased after the second test meal (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The GLP-1–induced delay in gastric emptying is subject to rapid tachyphylaxis at the level of vagal nervous activation. As a consequence, postprandial glucose control by GLP-1 is attenuated after its chronic administration.
Birth Size Distribution in 3,705 Infants Born to Mothers With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Persson Martina , Pasupathy Dharmintra , Hanson Ulf , Norman Mikael
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE

To characterize birth size distribution in infants born to mothers with type 1 diabetes. In particular, the relationship between birth weight (BW) and length (BL) was studied because it may provide information on different causal pathways of fetal macrosomia commonly seen in diabetic pregnancies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a population-based cohort study of 3,705 infants of type 1 diabetic mothers (1,876 boys), with a gestational age of 28–43 weeks, born in Sweden between 1998 and 2007. BW and BL were retrieved from the Medical Birth Registry and expressed as SD scores (SDS). Ponderal index (PI) was calculated as BW in g/length in cm3. A BW >90th and a PI ≤90th percentile was defined as proportionate large-for-gestational age (LGA), whereas if both BW and PI >90th percentile, the infant was categorized as disproportionately large. Values are mean (SD).

RESULTS

The BW distribution for offspring of type 1 diabetic mothers was bell-shaped, significantly broader, and markedly shifted to the right (BWSDS: 1.27 [1.48]) of the reference. Of the infants born to diabetic mothers, 47% were LGA, and among them, 46% were disproportionately large compared with 35% in nondiabetic LGA infants (P < 0.001). Female offspring of type 1 diabetic mothers had significantly higher BWSDS than males (1.34 vs. 1.20, P < 0.01), and preterm infants had higher BWSDS than term infants (1.41 vs. 1.23, P < 0.01)

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal macrosomia in type 1 diabetic pregnancies is due to a right-shift and broadening of the entire BW distribution. The large number of disproportionate LGA infants born to type 1 diabetic mothers suggests an underlying metabolic problem. Fetal macrosomia was more pronounced in preterm and female offspring of type 1 diabetic mothers.
Resin Composite Restorations of Permanent Incisors with Crown Fractures: A Case Report with a Six-year Follow-up
Authors: Ozel E. , Karapinar-Kazandag M. , Soyman M. , Bayirli G.
Published: March 2011

Clinical Relevance

The teeth in this report were restored with a two-step self-etch adhesive system and a microhybrid resin composite. The teeth present with an excellent clinical performance and patient acceptance at the end of a six-year recall.
Automated software and hardware evolution analysis for distributed real-time and embedded systems
Authors: Dougherty Brian , White Jules , Schmidt Douglas
Published: March 2011

Software evolution is critical to extending the utility and life of distributed real-time and embedded (DRE) systems. Determining the optimal set of software and hardware components to evolve that (1) incorporate cutting-edge technology and (2) satisfy DRE system resource constraints, such as memory, power, and CPU usage is an NP-Hard problem. This article provides four contributions to evolving legacy DRE system configurations. First, we present the Software Evolution Analysis with Resources (SEAR) technique for converting legacy DRE system configurations, external resource availabilities, and candidate replacement components into multiple-choice multidimension knapsack problems (MMKP). Second, we present a formal methodology for assessing the validity of evolved system configurations. Third, we apply heuristic approximation algorithms to determine low-cost, high value evolution paths in polynomial time. Finally, we analyze results of experiments that apply these techniques to determine which technique is most effective for given system parameters. Our results show that constraint solvers can only evolve small system configurations, whereas approximation techniques are needed to evolve larger system configurations.
Designing Wireless Sensor Networks: from theory to applications
Authors: Agrawal Dharma
Published: March 2011

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are having a dramatic impact on the way surrounding environment is being monitored. In this article, many underlying design issues of WSNs have been summarized, starting from the coverage and the connectivity. As batteries provide energy to sensor nodes, effective ways of power conservation are considered. Advantages of placing sensors in a regular pattern have also been discussed and various tradeoffs for many possible ways of secured communication in a WSN are summarized. Challenges in deploying WSN for monitoring CO emission are briefly covered. Finally, the use of sensors is illustrated in automatically generating music based on dancers’ movements.
Good versus optimal: Why network analytic methods need more systematic evaluation
Authors: Zweig Katharina
Published: March 2011

Network analytic method designed for the analysis of static networks promise to identify significant relational patterns that correlate with important structures in the complex system the network is derived from. In this mini review, three groups of network analytic methods are discussed: centrality indices, network motifs, and clustering algorithms. We show that so far these methods have mainly been used in a descriptive way, but that they show promising possibilities to be used for prediction and classification. We thus conclude the article with a discussion of how benchmark sets and evaluation criteria could look like to realize this promise.
Immunohistological Study of Wound Healing after Submucosal Radiofrequency Tissue Ablation of Inferior Nasal Turbinate in a Sheep Model
Authors: Gouveris Haralampos , Nousia Christina , Giatromanolaki Alexandra , Riga Maria , Katotomichelakis Michael , Papathanasiou Jannis , Watelet Jean-Baptiste , Danielides Vasilios
Published: March 2011

Background

Data on the molecular processes involved in nasal mucosa wound healing after radiofrequency tissue ablation (RTA) of the inferior nasal turbinate (INT) are missing. This study was designed to examine tissue expression of fibronectin, collagen III, CD68, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 in the INT (ventral) after RTA in sheep.

Methods

An experimental randomized controlled study was performed. Seventeen INTs (ventral) of nine sheep were used. RTA was applied in 12 INTs. Turbinate samples were studied 1, 3, and 8 weeks postoperatively (4 samples/time point) and in five control INTs (without surgery). Besides hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunostaining was done for MMP-9, collagen III, fibronectin, and CD68. A quantitative grading ranging between 0 (no immunoreactivity at all) and 100% (profuse immunoreactivity) was performed by a blinded senior pathologist. Comparisons between groups were performed using Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA. Spearman's rho correlation coefficients were calculated between histological and/or immunohistological variables.

Results

At week 8, fibronectin (p = 0.025), collagen III (p = 0.004), and MMP-9 (p < 0.001) immunoreactivity was significantly higher than controls, while immunoreactivity for CD68 was higher, although not significantly (p = 0.114) compared with controls. Strong correlations have been found between mucosal vascularization and interstitial space volume (r = 0.776), interstitial space volume and epithelial cell necrosis (r = 0.730), and CD68 immunostaining and epithelial cell necrosis (r = 0.784).

Conclusion

Given their high tissue concentrations after RTA application, fibronectin, collagen III, CD68, and MMP-9 deserve further study as candidate modulators of the INT wound-healing process.
Diagnostic Accuracy Evaluation of Nasal Sound Spectral Analysis Compared with Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow in Nasal Septal Deviation
Authors: Choi Hyuk , Park Il-Ho , Geun Hu , Lee Heung-Man
Published: March 2011

Background

Noninvasive evaluation of nasal airflow has remained a constant challenge for clinicians. A recently developed method for measurement of nasal obstruction has been evaluated. This study was designed to compare results of nasal sound spectral analysis (NSSA) with results of peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) and visual analog scale (VAS) of nasal obstruction. Main outcome measure was diagnostic accuracy evaluation of NSSA compared with PNIF in nasal septal deviation.

Methods

Analysis of original nasal sounds was performed using the ameliorated NSSA system with a software program and evaluation of nasal inspiratory sound and its intensity into spectral and frequency scale was performed using fast Fourier transform. NSSA and PNIF were performed on 43 patients with nasal septal deviations and 40 healthy subjects. We characterized the following frequency spectrum using a series of variables: low frequency (0–1 kHz), medium frequency (1–2 kHz), and high frequency (2–4 kHz).

Results

A significant difference was observed between PNIF values and nasal inspiratory sound intensity of the deviated patients and the control group (p < 0.001). A correlation was observed in patients between NSSA results at a frequency range of 2–4 kHz and PNIF results. A cutoff between normal and pathological of 15.2 ± 2.0 dB (2–4 kHz) for NSSA and 118.0 ± 15.5 L/min for PNIF was calculated. No significant differences in terms of sensitivity of NSSA and PNIF (86.04% versus 79.07%) and specificity (82.50% versus 77.50%) were computed.

Conclusion

NSSA and PNIF provide valuable information to aid in support of clinical decision making.
Impact of Allergic Rhinitis on Bronchi: An 8-year Follow-up Study
Authors: Ciprandi Giorgio , Cirillo Ignazio , Signori Alessio
Published: March 2011

Background

Allergic rhinitis is considered a strong risk factor for the onset of asthma. However, few studies addressed this issue from afunctional point of view. The aim of this study was to follow up a group of patients with allergic rhinitis to investigate the onset of possible spirometric abnormalities and/or bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR).

Methods

Eighty-nine patients with moderate–severe persistent allergic rhinitis were prospectively and consecutively evaluated; 940 controls were also included in the study. Clinical examination, skin-prick test, spirometry, and methacholine challenge were performed in all patients every 2 years for 8 years.

Results

The number of patients with forced expiratory flow at 25 and 75% of pulmonary volume of<70% of predicted significantly increased during the observation time. At baseline, no subjects had BHR; whereas 34 patients had BHR after 8 years. Sensitization to mites, birch, and Parietaria as well as rhinitis duration are risk factors for these changes.

Conclusion

This study highlights the close link between upper and lower airways and suggests that spirometry should be performed in patients with allergic rhinitis.
dg-Methods for Microlocalization
Authors: Guillermou Stéphane
Published: March 2011

For a complex manifold

X

the ring of microdifferential operators

\mathcal{E}_X

acts on the microlocalization

\mu hom(F,\mathcal{O}_X)

for

F

in the derived category of sheaves on

X

. Kashiwara, Schapira, Ivorra, Waschkies proved as a byproduct of their new microlocalization functor for ind-sheaves,

\mu_X

, that

\mu hom(F,\mathcal{O}_X)

can in fact be defined as an object of

\mathrm{D}(\mathcal{E}_X)

: this follows from the fact that

\mu_X \mathcal{O}_X

is concentrated in one degree.In this paper we prove that the tempered microlocalization

T - \mu hom(F,\mathcal{O}_X)

and in fact

\mu_X \mathcal{O}_X^t

also are objects of

\mathrm{D}(\mathcal{E}_X)

. Since we don't know whether

\mu_X \mathcal{O}_X^t

is concentrated in one degree we built resolutions of

\mathcal{E}_X

and

\mu_X \mathcal{O}_X^t

such that the action of

\mathcal{E}_X

is realized in the category of complexes (and not only up to homotopy). To define these resolutions we introduce a version of the de Rham algebra on the subanalytic site which is quasi-injective. We prove that some standard operations in the derived category of sheaves can be lifted to the (non-derived) category of dg-modules over this de Rham algebra. Then we built the microlocalization in this framework.
Regular holonomic $\mathscr{D}[[\hbar]]$-modules
Authors: D'Agnolo Andrea , Guillermou Stéphane , Schapira Pierre
Published: March 2011

We describe the category of regular holonomic modules over the ring

\mathscr{D} [[\hbar]]

of linear differential operators with a formal parameter

\hbar

. In particular, we establish the Riemann-Hilbert correspondence and discuss the additional

t

-structure related to

\hbar

-torsion.
On the Voros Coefficient for the Whittaker Equation with a Large Parameter – Some Progress around Sato's Conjecture in Exact WKB Analysis
Authors: Koike Tatsuya , Takei Yoshitsugu
Published: March 2011

Generalizing Sato's conjecture for the Weber equation in exact WKB analysis, we explicitly determine the Voros coefficient of the Whittaker equation with a large parameter. By using our results we also compute alien derivatives of WKB solutions of the Whittaker equation at the so-called fixed singular points of their Borel transform.
Conspiracy theories and their truth trajectories
Authors: Pelkmans Mathijs , Machold Rhys
Published: March 2011

This article aims to reinvigorate analytical debates on conspiracy theories.
It argues that definitional attempts to set conspiracy theories apart from other
theories are flawed. Blinded by the “irrational” reputation of conspiracy theories
and deluded by the workings of institutionalized power such approaches fail to
recognize that there are no inherent differences between the two categories. We
argue that assessments of conspiracy theories should focus not on the epistemological
qualities of these theories but on their interactions with the socio-political
fields through which they travel. Because “conspiracy theory” is not a neutral term
but a powerful label, attention to processes of labeling highlights these larger fields
of power, while the theories’ trajectories illuminate the mechanisms by which
truth and untruth are created. As such, this article offers a way forward for assessing
both the truth and use value of conspiracy theories in the contemporary world.
Human genetic and reproductive technologies - an international medico-legal-religious impasse?
Authors: Nordin Musa Mohd
Published: March 2011

DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v10i1.7311Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.10 No.1 Jan 2010 pp.1-10
Evaluating goodness in qualitative researcher
Authors: Qazi HA
Published: March 2011

This article explores the issue of "evaluating goodness in qualitative research", from a perspective of novice qualitative researchers. Despite the recent upsurge in publications of qualitative studies especially in health sciences, the issue of goodness in qualitative research is still debatable. Qualitative researches in contrast to traditional research not only differ in research methodology and methods but also in data analysis.Although approaches for evaluating goodness in qualitative research are available but consensus on universality is still lacking. The development of extrinsic criteria although provide the guidelines for post positivist studies, however, it is not acceptable to interpretivist /constructivist who believe on multiple realities and knowledge as co construct. The authenticity criteria although fits well to constructivism/interpretivism, however, researchers argue that because it provide a post hoc strategy for evaluation of a study and avoid focusing during its conduct, thus causing serious threats to the credibility. Primary criteria forwarded by Whitemoore et al., although seems essential for all qualitative inquiry but because based on validity has been rejected by authors on the grounds that qualitative epistemological and ontological assumptions are entirely different to the traditional qualitative research. The criteria by Ballinger in 2006 although seems practical in application to all paradigms, however, as it also questions reflexivity which seems irrelevant in realist tradition. Further other general criteria such as seems popular because of its simplistic approach but do not address the terms of ontology, epistemology and paradigm that seem very important in qualitative research.It is important for the novice qualitative researchers to be aware of the debate on the issue of evaluating goodness of qualitative research. However, they should adopt a cautious stand while favouring or rejecting one criteria. Finally the development of a universal and uniform criteria is although important but not necessary requirement for the qualitative research progress. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v10i1.7314Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.10 No.1 Jan 2010 pp.11-20
Twin delivery: incidence and perinatal outcome in a Nigerian mission hospital
Authors: Onyiriuka AN
Published: March 2011

Background: The incidence of twin delivery in Nigeria may have changed, in view of the worldwide increase in the rates of twinning attributed to increasing maternal age and use of fertility therapies. Twin gestation is associated with increased risk of adverse perinatal outcome. Objective: To determine the current incidence of twin delivery in Benin City and document their perinatal outcome. Methods: A four-year cross-sectional study of twin deliveries in a Nigerian mission hospital was conducted. The perinatal outcome in 115 sets of twin was compared with that of 230 singleton controls. Results: The current incidence of twin delivery was 25.3 per 1000 deliveries or one in 40 births. Sex ratio was 0.98 : 1 in favour of females. The highest incidence was in the month of August while the lowest incidence was in the month of November (p<0.05). Twin pregnancies are at a significantly higher risk of adverse perinatal outcome such as low birthweight (LBW), preterm delivery, birth asphyxia and Caesarean delivery compared to singleton pregnancies (p<0.001). Conclusions: Although the incidence of twin delivery remains high in Benin City, it appears to have dropped. Twin pregnancy is associated with a significantly increased risk of delivery of preterm and low birthweight infants as well as birth asphyxia. Keywords: Twins delivery; incidence; perinatal outcome; Nigeria. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v10i1.7319 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.10 No.1 Jan 2010 pp.45-51
Massive chondrogenic osteosarcoma of the maxilla: A case report
Authors: Irfan M , Ramli RR , Shamim AK , Pohchi A
Published: March 2011

Although osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone cancer, the incidence in head and neck bony structures is extremely low. As the surgical treatment requires a wide margin excision, the operation usually will be very challenging especially if it involves midline structures. We report a case of a young gentleman who had a bony growth over the epicenter of the hard palate which rapidly occupies the whole oral cavity within 6 months duration. The outline of management is discussed. Keywords: Osteosarcoma; hard palate. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v10i1.7322 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.10 No.1 Jan 2010 pp.57-59
Bilateral tubercular abscess of breast in axillary tail in a 21 year old puerperal lady
Authors: Karmakar A , Ghosh S , Dewasi N , Ghosh TK
Published: March 2011

Tuberculosis is a very common disease in the Indian subcontinent. Though it can affect any system of the body, primary involvement of the breast is relatively rare even in India. Involvement of the axillary tail is even rarer. Bilateral involvement is also a rare phenomenon (3%). Moreover the disease is often overlooked and misdiagnosed as carcinoma or pyogenic abscess. Here we report a case of bilateral tubercular abscess of breast in the axillary tail in a 21 year old puerperal lady diagnosed by FNAC and AFB stains and further confirmed retrospectively by response to anti-tubercular drugs. Keywords: Tuberculosis; Breast. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v10i1.7323 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.10 No.1 Jan 2010 pp.60-63
MDR/XDR-TB: where do we stand?
Authors: Salam Md Abdus
Published: March 2011

DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i4.6679Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.4 July 2010 pp.189-192
A postmortem study on the weight of the human adrenal glands
Authors: Siddiqua Dilruba , Ara Shamim , Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Ahmed Rukshana , Hosne Ara Parven
Published: March 2011

Objective: A cross-sectional descriptive type of study was designed to find out the difference in weight of the right and left adrenal glands of Bangladeshi people in relation to age and to compare with the previous studies. Materials & Methods: The study was done in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from July 2008 to June 2009 and performed on 140 post mortem human adrenal glands collected from 70 unclaimed dead bodies which were in the morgue under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. The samples were divided into four age-groups including group A (11-20 years), group B (21-30 years), group C (31-40 years) & group D (41-60 years) and the weight of the adrenal glands were measured and recorded. Results: There was no difference found in weight in between the right and the left adrenal glands in any age group. For the right adrenal gland, the differences in weight between group A & group B and group A & group D were statistically significant (p<0.05). For the left adrenal gland, the differences in weight between group A & group D and group C & group D were statistically significant (p<0.05). Key words: Adrenal gland; weight of adrenal gland. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i4.6686Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.4 July 2010 pp.204-207
CSR by Islami Bank in healthcare  stakeholders' perception
Authors: Rahman Shafiqur , Jahan Sadia , McDonald Nicholas
Published: March 2011

Background: In the Bangladesh society, a few organizations are contributing through their activities on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). It is a general belief that the contribution of Islami Bank Bangladeshi Limited in CSR is highest among the financial institutions. It is an observation that IBBL's CSR contribution in the healthcare sector is very significant. Objective: This paper explores the stockholders' perception of CSR contribution in the healthcare sector by Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited (IBBL). Method: Authors used qualitative approach in doing the research. Data were collected through a survey. Likert scale was used to explore the significance of stakeholders' perception. Results: This paper reports the findings of a qualitative study on perceptions of CSR by IBBL in the healthcare sector of a heterogeneous group of stakeholders. The findings reveal the perception of stakeholders towards the social contribution of Islami Bank Central Hospital (IBCH), an Institution for CSR in healthcare by IBBL. The stakeholders believe that this hospital is significantly contributing to the society through its support in the healthcare sector. It is also found that the hospital is proactive in providing healthcare support to the community through its highly standard human resources, world class medical equipment, outstanding management team and superb customer care support. Conclusion: This exploratory study makes a contribution to the relatively new body of work on CSR in Bangladesh, especially in the healthcare sector by IBBL and hopefully will encourage further research on the topic. This study will also contribute to improve the governance, social, ethical, and environmental conditions of the healthcare sector. Key words: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); healthcare sector; stakeholders' perception. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i4.6687Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.4 July 2010 pp.208-215