bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of gender and race on the week 48 findings in treatment‐naïve, HIV‐1‐infected patients enrolled in the randomized, phase III trials ECHO and THRIVE
Authors: Hodder S , Arasteh K , De Wet J , Gathe J , Gold J , Kumar P , Mohapi L , Short W , Crauwels H , Vanveggel S , Boven K
Published: March 2012

Objectives

A week 48 efficacy and safety analysis with respect to gender and race was conducted using pooled data from the phase III, double‐blind, double‐dummy efficacy comparison in treatment‐naïve, HIV‐infected subjects of TMC278 and efavirenz (ECHO) and TMC278 against HIV, in a once‐daily regimen versus efavirenz (THRIVE) trials.

Methods

Treatment‐naïve, HIV‐1‐infected adults were randomized to receive rilpivirine (RPV; TMC278) 25 mg once a day (qd), or efavirenz (EFV) 600 mg qd, plus tenofovir/emtricitabine (ECHO) or tenofovir/emtricitabine, zidovudine/lamivudine or abacavir/lamivudine (THRIVE).

Results

A total of 1368 participants (76% male and 61% White, of those with available race data) were randomized and treated. No gender‐related differences in response rate (percentage of patients with HIV‐1 viral load < 50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL, using an intent‐to‐treat, time‐to‐loss‐of‐virological‐response algorithm) were observed (RPV: men, 85%; women, 83%; EFV: men, 82%; women, 83%). Response rates were lower in Black compared with Asian and White participants (RPV: 75% vs. 95% and 85%, respectively; EFV: 74% vs. 93% and 83%, respectively); this finding was mostly a result of higher discontinuation and virological failure rates in Black patients. Safety findings were generally similar across race and gender subgroups. However, nausea occurred more commonly in women than in men in both treatment groups. In men, diarrhoea was more frequent in the EFV group, and abnormal dreams/nightmares were more frequent in men in both the EFV and RPV groups.

Conclusions

Overall response rates were high for both RPV and EFV. No gender differences were observed. However, response rates were lower among Black patients, regardless of treatment group. Gender appeared to influence the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events and abnormal dreams/nightmares for both treatments.
Comparison of resistance mutation patterns in historical plasma HIV RNA genotypes with those in current proviral HIV DNA genotypes among extensively treated patients with suppressed replication
Authors: Delaugerre C , Braun J , Charreau I , Delarue S , Nere ML , de Castro N , May T , Marchou B , Simon F , Molina JM , Aboulker JP ,   the ANRS 138‐EASIER study group
Published: March 2012

Objectives

Heavily treatment‐experienced patients with good virological control could be at risk of virological failure on switching to a new regimen if pre‐existing drug resistance is not taken into account. We examined whether genotyping based on cellular HIV‐1 DNA during controlled viraemia identifies resistance mutations detected in plasma HIV‐1 RNA during treatment with previous antiretroviral regimens.

Patients and methods

All 169 patients enrolled in the Agence Nationale de Recherche sur le SIDA (ANRS) 138‐intEgrase inhibitor MK_0518 to Avoid Subcutaneous Injections of EnfuviRtide (EASIER) trial had already received three antiretroviral drug classes [nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and protease inhibitor (PI)] and had plasma HIV‐1 RNA < 400 copies/ml at baseline. The results of previous resistance genotyping of plasma HIV‐1 RNA in individual patients were compared with those of resistance genotyping of whole‐blood HIV‐1 DNA at randomization.

Results

A median of 4 plasma RNA genotypes were available for the 169 patients. The median numbers of resistance mutations in HIV‐1 RNA and DNA were, respectively, 5 and 4 for NRTIs, 2 and 1 for NNRTIs, and 10 and 8 for PIs. The difference was significant for all three drug classes (P = 0.001). Resistance to at least one antiretroviral drug was detected exclusively in HIV‐1 RNA or in DNA in 63% and 13% of patients for NRTI, 47% and 1% of patients for NNRTI, and 50% and 7% of patients for PI, respectively.

Conclusion

This study shows that, among highly treatment‐experienced patients on effective highly active antiretroviral therapy, resistance genotyping of HIV‐1 DNA detects fewer resistance mutations than previous analyses of HIV‐1 RNA. These results have implications for patient management and for the design of switch studies.
Elevated alanine aminotransferase in antiretroviral‐naïve HIV‐infected African patients: magnitude and risk factors
Authors: Nagu TJ , Kanyangarara M , Hawkins C , Hertmark E , Chalamila G , Spiegelman D , Mugusi F , Fawzi W
Published: March 2012

Background

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is commonly used to measure liver injury in resource‐limited settings. Elevations in ALT are predictive of increased mortality from liver disease and may influence the choice of first‐line antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

A cross‐sectional analysis of the prevalence and predictors of elevated ALT (defined as > 40 IU/L) was conducted. ART‐naïve, HIV‐infected adults with a baseline ALT measurement who were enrolled in any of the 18 HIV Care and Treatment Clinics in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania between November 2004 and December 2009 were included in the study. Median values were calculated and log‐binomial regression models were used to examine predictors of elevated ALT.

Results

During the study period, 41 891 adults had a baseline ALT measurement performed. The prevalence of ALT > 40, > 120 and > 200 IU/L was 13, 1 and 0.3%, respectively. In multivariate analyses, male sex, CD4 T lymphocyte count < 200 cells/μL and higher World Health Organization (WHO) clinical stages were associated with a significantly higher risk of ALT > 40 IU/L (all P < 0.01). Hypertryglyceridaemia, hyperglycaemia and hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection (positive for HBV surface antigen) were significantly associated with a higher risk of elevated ALT. Pregnancy, anaemia, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol > 130 mg/dL and current tuberculosis treatment were associated with a significantly reduced risk for elevated ALT.

Conclusions

In this HIV‐infected, ART‐naïve Tanzanian population, extreme elevations in ALT were infrequent but minor elevations were not uncommon. Antiretrovirals with potentially hepatotoxic side effects should be initiated with caution in male patients, and in patients with HBV coinfection, advanced immunosuppression and components of the metabolic syndrome.
Adalimumab therapy for psoriasis in real‐world practice: efficacy, safety and results in biologic‐naïve vs. non‐naïve patients
Authors: van Lümig P.P.M. , van de Kerkhof P.C.M. , Boezeman J.B.M. , Driessen R.J.B. , de Jong E.M.G.J.
Published: March 2012

Background  Patients and the course of treatment in daily practice are different from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Objectives  Primary objective: to analyse the percentage of patients achieving PASI 75. Secondary objectives: PASI 50, PASI 90, PASI 100 responses, the percentage of patients experiencing at least one serious adverse event (SAE) and the response in biologic‐naïve vs. non‐naïve patients.

Methods  Prospectively collected efficacy and safety data of a cohort of psoriasis patients treated with adalimumab in daily practice between May 2007 and July 2011 were analyzed. Efficacy was determined using an intention‐to‐treat analysis and an as treated analysis, in comparison with the course baseline PASI before the start of adalimumab and the original baseline PASI before the start of any biologic therapy.

Results  Eighty‐five patients received adalimumab therapy with a mean treatment duration of 1.4 (range 0.02–3.1) years. Compared with the original baseline PASI, PASI 75 response rates at week 12 and 24 were 34% and 38% (ITT). PASI 75 responses were well maintained until week 132.

Only the PASI 75 response rate at week 12 differed significantly between biologic‐naïve (56%) and non‐naïve patients (29%). Sixteen patients (19%) experienced 28 SAEs. Seven patients (8%) experienced SAEs considered possibly or probably related to adalimumab.

Conclusions  In this cohort, PASI75 responses were substantial but lower than in RCTs and other daily practice studies. Efficacy was well maintained during more than 2 years of follow‐up and differed only between biologic‐naïve and non‐naïve patients at week 12. The incidence of SAEs was low but seems higher than observed in RCTs.
Tools to Improve the Production of Emergency Plans for Floods: Are They Being Used by the People that Need Them?
Authors: Lumbroso Darren , Vinet Freddy
Published: March 2012

Recently emergency plans for floods have started to be developed in England and France. At present, tools, such as checklists, guidance and specialized software appear to be used rarely to improve the effectiveness of these plans. Research was undertaken with flood managers in the two countries. The objective was to establish why tools that can usefully contribute to improving emergency plans for floods are often not being used. Many flood managers are not aware of the tools that are available to assist them in formulating emergency plans for floods. It was concluded that there is a need for guidance on the tools and how they can be used to help to improve emergency planning for floods.
Disasters Out of the Box: A New Ballgame?
Authors: De Smet Hans , Lagadec Patrick , Leysen Jan
Published: March 2012

Findings of recent disaster research make mention of a changing disaster landscape. According to the disaster literature, there has been a general increase of the quantity of disasters per time frame during the last decades. On the other hand, several academics refer to a more important qualitative shift in the disaster landscape. Although this qualitative shift is very credible, there exists no academic study approving this evolution. If suchlike evolution is concrete, we will have to strengthen our emergency management in a substantial way in order to be better prepared for managing future disasters. After discussing the changing nature of disasters, we concentrate on a study of randomly selected disasters, using the Disaster and Complexity Diagram, a tool permitting to study qualitative trends in disaster evolution.
‘Each site has its own survival probability, but information is borrowed across sites to tell us about survival in each site’: random effects models as means of borrowing strength in survival studies of wild vertebrates
Authors: Cam E.
Published: March 2012

Read the Feature Paper:Bayesian shared frailty models for regional inference about wildlife survival

Other Commentaries on this paper:Combining information in hierarchical models improves inferences in population ecology and demographic population analyses;Bayesian shared frailty models for regional inference about wildlife survival

Response from the authors:‘Exciting statistics’: the rapid development and promising future of hierarchical models for population ecology
A case of serial nightmares and oneiroid state under paroxetine for senile depression
Authors: KOBAYASHI Toshiyuki , YAMAUCHI Mina
Published: March 2012

We report on rare side effects of paroxetine. A 67‐year‐old female patient who had been suffering from prolonged depression for over a year but had not received appropriate treatment was administered 20‐mg paroxetine daily. However, the patient required hospital admission after 16 days because of behavioural disturbances and delusions that she was being chased by evil persons from a religious group. The delusions were ultimately confirmed to be serial nightmares and an oneiroid state. The nightmares gradually disappeared following discontinuation of paroxetine. The Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale showed a score of 6 (probable). Reports on paroxetine‐induced nightmares are rare, and there is a possibility that, in this case, parexetine caused the nightmares in association with depression and assumed underlying brain dysfunction due to ageing.
Prevalence of major depressive disorders and suicide in long‐term care facilities: a report from northern Thailand
Authors: WONGPAKARAN Nahathai , WONGPAKARAN Tinakon
Published: March 2012

Background:  Depression is a common mental illness among elderly Thais, but little is known about the occurrence of major depressive disorders (MDD) in long‐term care (LTC) facilities. This study investigated the prevalence of MDD and suicide risk among residents in an LTC facility in northern Thailand.

Methods:  For this cross‐sectional study, a care team conducted a screening program for MDD and suicide risk among LTC residents in 2011. The screening process used the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, the Geriatric Depression Scale‐15, the patient and caregiver versions of the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia, the Core Symptom Index and the Mini Mental State Examination.

Results:  In total, 81 (of 113) residents participated in the study. The mean age was 76.96 ± 7.17 years old (range, 63–94), and 55.6% of participants were women. With the Mini Mental State Examination, 40.7% were found to have cognitive impairment, and with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, 23.5% met the criteria for current major depressive episodes. Though the majority was in the low‐risk group, 26 residents (32.1%) were reported as being at risk of suicide. The patient and caregiver versions of the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia, the Geriatric Depression Scale‐15 and the Core Symptom Index proved useful for predicting major depressive episodes among the residents (P < 0.001, P= 0.004, P= 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively), including those with cognitive impairment (P= 0.006, P= 0.020, P= 0.049 and P= 0.012, respectively).

Conclusions:  Nearly one‐quarter of LTC facility residents were found to suffer from MDD, and a suicide risk was reported for one‐third, though most of the cases were in the low‐risk category. Further studies with a larger sample size are recommended to make these findings more precise and universally applicable.
Revising Manuscripts for Premier Entrepreneurship Journals
Authors: Pearce John A.
Published: March 2012

Article manuscripts are rarely accepted before being improved by their authors in response to editor recommendations. Therefore, authors who succeed in publishing their research in prestigious entrepreneurship journals must master the art of responding to critiques and critics while maintaining the integrity of their submissions. This article presents the results of a survey of editors to give authors authoritative guidelines for revising the presentation of their research so that their findings are more fully developed, accurately conveyed, and ultimately publishable. In a survey of 18 editors and associate editors of six top academic journals with missions to advance entrepreneurship, the editors identify major problems that authors face and proffer possible solutions.
Preparation and Formation Mechanism of Elongated (Ca,Dy)‐α‐Sialon Powder via Carbothermal Reduction and Nitridation
Authors: Huang Juntong , Zhou Heping , Huang Zhaohui , Liu Guanghua , Fang Minghao , Liu Yan'gai
Published: March 2012

(Ca,Dy) co‐stabilized α‐Sialon with elongated grains was prepared from SiO2–AlN–CaF2–Dy2O3 powders by carbothermal reduction‐nitridation (CRN) at 1700°C. Detailed investigations on the formation process of (Ca,Dy)‐α‐Sialon elongated grains performed under various firing conditions revealed that the big quartz particles were initially reduced and decomposed gradually by carbon, and a large number of ball‐shaped particles consisting of amorphous (Si,Al,Ca,Dy)x(O,N)y were formed. With increasing temperature, nitrogen continuously diffused into the liquid to form nitrogen‐rich solid balls. Further increasing the temperature to 1700°C and held for 2 h, hollow α‐Sialon spheres with nanometric particles were obtained from nitrogen‐rich solid balls. Subsequently, the framework structure of hollow spheres was destroyed at 1700°C for 3 h, and (Ca,Dy)‐α‐Sialon grains grew up continuously by consuming nanometric particles in the rough interface via Ostwald ripening and growth stages moving on the smooth interface. Finally, (Ca,Dy)‐α‐Sialon developed well‐defined crystalline elongated grains because the growth rate of rough surfaces is more rapid than that of smooth surfaces.
Correlation Between the Microstructure and Electrical Properties in High‐Performance (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3 Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Hao Jigong , Bai Wangfeng , Li Wei , Zhai Jiwei
Published: March 2012

Using three different sintering methods: spark plasma sintering, two‐step sintering, and normal sintering (Ba0.85Ca0.15)(Zr0.1Ti0.9)O3 (BCZT) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics with grain sizes in the range of 0.4–32.2 μm were prepared. The effects of grain size on the electrical properties and temperature stability of BCZT ceramics were systematically investigated. Results showed that reducing grain size shifted both the Tc and TT‐R to higher temperatures, and tended to enhance the relaxor behavior. A strong dependence of piezoelectric properties on the grain size was observed, and ~10 μm was a critical point for fabricating high‐performance BCZT ceramics. For samples with grain sizes >10 μm, excellent piezoelectric properties of kp > 0.48, kt > 0.46, d33 > 470 pC/N and d33* > 950 pm/V were obtained. Moreover, no evident relationship between the grain size and temperature stability existed in this material, and all samples exhibited thermal instability below the Curie temperature. However, increasing grain size was helpful for improving the resistance to thermal depoling. The depolarization was assisted by internal mechanical stresses and the movement of 180° and 90° domain walls, which explained the increased resistance to thermal depoling in coarse‐grained samples.
Progreso económico y social en las redes productivas mundiales. Nuevo paradigma
Authors: BARRIENTOS Stephanie , GEREFFI Gary , ROSSI Arianna
Published: March 2012

Uno de los retos principales para promover el trabajo decente es cómo mejorar la posición de empresas y trabajadores en las cadenas de valor y las redes de producción mundiales. Los autores elaboran un marco de análisis de los nexos que existen entre el progreso económico de las empresas y el progreso social de los trabajadores. Partiendo de una serie de estudios anteriores —en especial, de una investigación sobre el ramo de la confección de Marruecos— según los cuales el progreso económico no depara automáticamente progreso social, los autores exponen diversas trayectorias y posibilidades que ayudan a esclarecer la relación entre ambos procesos.
Género y conciliación de trabajo y familia en el Irán
Authors: Mehdizadeh Narjes
Published: March 2012

La compaginación del trabajo y la vida familiar no está tan organizada en los países en desarrollo como en el mundo desarrollado, pero también en ellos se recrudece este problema. La autora estudia lo que sucede en la República Islámica del Irán —un país en que las mujeres sólo alcanzaban el 12,5 por ciento de la población activa en 2006— y las causas de la situación. Partiendo de una encuesta a 800 madres con estudios superiores, explica que es indispensable potenciar las guarderías para que estas mujeres puedan incorporarse plenamente a la actividad económica. Aboga por que se adopten medidas que conjuguen los medios «oficiales» e informales de cuidado de los hijos con la normativa acerca de la jornada de trabajo.
Exercise for fitness does not decrease the muscular inactivity time during normal daily life
Authors: Finni T. , Haakana P. , Pesola A. J. , Pullinen T.
Published: March 2012

The time spent in sedentary behaviors has been shown to be independent of exercise in epidemiological studies. We examined within an individual whether exercise alters the time of muscular inactivity within his/her normal daily life. Quadriceps and hamstring muscle electromyographic activities and heart rate were measured during 1 to 6 days of normal daily living of ordinary people. Of 84 volunteers measured, 27 (15 men, 12 women, 40.7 years ± 16.5 years) fulfilled the criteria of having at least 1 day with and 1 day without exercise for fitness (total of 87 days analyzed, 13.0 h ± 2.5 h/day). Reported exercises varied from Nordic walking to strength training and ball games lasting 30 min–150 min (mean 83 min ± 30 min). Exercise increased the time spent at moderate‐to‐vigorous muscle activity (6% ± 4% to 9% ± 6%, P < 0.01) and energy expenditure (13% ± 22%, P < 0.05). Muscular inactivity, defined individually below that measured during standing, comprised 72% ± 12% of day without and 68% ± 13% of day with exercise (not significant). Duration of exercise correlated positively to the increase in moderate‐to‐vigorous muscle activity time (r = 0.312, P < 0.05) but not with inactivity time. In conclusion, exercise for fitness, regardless of its duration, does not decrease the inactivity time during normal daily life. This is possible by slight modifications in daily nonexercise activities.
5‐HTTLPR S‐allele: a genetic plasticity factor regarding the effects of life events on personality?
Authors: Kuepper Y. , Wielpuetz C. , Alexander N. , Mueller E. , Grant P. , Hennig J.
Published: March 2012

The S‐allele of the 5‐HTTLPR has been identified as a genetic vulnerability factor, being associated with an increased risk for affective disorders and/or maladaptive traits (e.g. neuroticism), especially after exposition to negative life‐events (LEs). Alternatively, it has been hypothesized that this genetic risk factor might constitute a genetic plasticity factor. That is, S‐allele carriers are not only vulnerable to the negative effects of a preponderance of stressful LEs but also disproportionally benefit from a preponderance of positive environmental influences. We tested this hypothesis in 357 subjects who were genotyped for the 5‐HTTLPR and provided self‐reports of neuroticism, life‐satisfaction and LEs. Results showed a relatively increased number of positive LEss to be associated with reduced neuroticism (men: β = −0.501, P < 0.05, women: β = −0.369, P < 0.005) and increased life satisfaction (β = 0.494, P < 0.001) within SS‐homozygotes. Within SL‐heterozygotes, similar tendencies were found. No associations were detected in LL‐homozygotes. Extreme Group comparisons revealed a genotype × LE interaction (F2,198 = 5.593, P < 0.005), with SS‐homozygotes having experienced predominantly positive LEs exhibiting reduced neuroticism (women: F1,34 = 4.764, P < 0.05; men: F1,17 = 2.092, P = 0.17), and increased life satisfaction (F1,53 = 4.057, P < 0.05), as compared to LL‐homozygotes having experienced predominantly positive LEs. Our data support the idea that the S‐allele of the 5‐HTTLPR is associated with an overall increased reactivity to environmental influences, be they positive or negative in nature. These findings constitute a promising add‐on to earlier data and support the plasticity hypothesis.
Vertical Bone Augmentation Using Different Osteoconductive Scaffolds Combined with Barrier Domes in the Rat Calvarium
Authors: Zigdon Hadar , Lewinson Dina , Bick Tova , Machtei Eli E.
Published: March 2012

Purpose: To compare the regenerative potential for vertical bone augmentation of various osteoconductive scaffolds when used in conjunction with barrier domes.

Materials and Methods: Following exposure and perforation of the calvarium, a gold occlusive dome was filled with the tested scaffold and anchored by fixation screws. Flaps were repositioned and secured. The four treatment groups, three to five rats each, were as follows: Bio‐Oss collagen (BOC), β‐tricalcium phosphate (TCP), collagen sponge (COL), and empty domes (C). Rats were sacrificed 8 weeks later, and specimens were prepared for histological and histomorphometric analysis. Vertical bone height and total tissue height were measured.

Results: The newly regenerated bone appeared mature, highly vascularized, and with no signs of inflammation. Vertical bone height in the TCP group (mean 2.04 ± 0.2 mm) was greater than all other groups (0.76 ± 0.02, 1.52 ± 0.18, and 1.77 ± 0.61 mm for the BOC, C, and COL, respectively) but significantly only for the BOC group (p = .0145). Total tissue height was significantly higher (p < .0001) in both BOC and TCP groups (4.48 ± 0.23 and 5.5 ± 0.24 mm, respectively) compared with COL (3.22 ± 0.11 mm) and C (2.39 ± 0.3 mm) groups.

Conclusion: TCP in conjunction with barrier dome resulted in greater vertical bone augmentation in the calvarium of rats.
Clinical evaluation of gauze‐based negative pressure wound therapy in challenging wounds
Authors: Tuncel Umut , Erkorkmaz Ünal , Turan Aydın
Published: March 2012

The aim of this randomised clinical study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of gauze‐based negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in patients with challenging wounds. A total of 50 consecutive patients who had wound drainage for more than 5 days, required open wound management and had existence of culture positive infection were included the study. In this study, gauze‐based NPWT was compared with conventional dressing therapy in the treatment of patients with difficult‐to‐heal wounds. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group I (n = 25) was followed by conventional antiseptic (polyhexanide solution) dressings, and group II (n = 25) was treated with saline‐soaked antibacterial gauze‐based NPWT. The wounds' sizes, number of debridement, bacteriology and recurrence were compared between group I and group II. The mean age of the patients was 59·50 years (range 23–97). In group I, average wound sizes of pre‐ and post‐treatment periods were 50·60 ± 55·35 and 42·50 ± 47·92 cm2, respectively (P < 0·001). Average duration of treatment was 25·52 ± 16·99 days, and average wound size reduction following the treatment was 19·99% in this group. In group II, the wounds displayed considerable shrinkage, accelerated granulation tissue formation, decreased and cleared away exudate. The average wound sizes in the pre‐ and post‐treatment periods were 98·44 ± 100·88 and 72·08 ± 75·78 cm2, respectively (P < 0·001). Average duration of treatment was 11·96 ± 2·48 days, and average wound size reduction following the treatment was 32·34%. The patients treated with antibacterial gauze‐based NPWT had a significantly reduced recurrence (2 wounds versus 14 wounds, P = 0·001), and increased number of the culture‐negative cases (22 wounds versus 16 wounds, P < 0·047) in a follow‐up period of 12 months. There was a statistically significant difference between two groups in all measurements. As a result, we can say that the gauze‐based NPWT is a safe and effective method in the treatment of challenging infective wounds when compared with conventional wound management.
Effects of fermented aloe vera mixed diet on larval growth of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (Kolbe) (coleopteran:Cetoniidae) and protective effects of its extract against CCl4‐induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: KANG Mingu , KANG Changgeun , LEE Hyunkyoung , KIM Euikyung , KIM Jongshu , KWON Ohseok , LEE Hyoki , KANG Hyunjun , KIM Chunghui , JANG Heeseung
Published: March 2012

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of fermented aloe vera mixed diet on larval growth of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (Kolbe) (coleopteran: Cetoniidae) and protective effects of extract of larvae of P. brevitarsis seulensis fed fermented aloe vera mixed diet against Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague–Dawley rats. To determine whether different diets can affect the larval growth of P. brevitarsis seulensis, six different diets were investigated in the experiment, and the results exhibited that 15% fermented aloe vera with 85% fermented oakwood sawdust was the best diet for larval growth of this insect, followed by 9% fermented aloe vera with 91% fermented oakwood sawdust. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats (n= 30) were separated into five groups of six each, as follows: control group; CCl4 group; CCl4 plus larval extract group (without fermented aloe vera); CCl4 plus 9% and 15% larval extract groups (with fermented aloe vera). All extract groups were fed with 30 mg/kg extracts of fermented oakwood sawdust only and fermented oakwood sawdust plus 9% and 15% fermented aloe vera, respectively, once every consecutive day, with administration of CCl4 (1.5 mL/kg, 20% CCl4 in olive oil) twice a week for 3 weeks. Administration of CCl4 increased the serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotranseferase and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance levels in rats and reduced levels of glutathione in the liver. Treatment with extract of larval‐fed fermented aloe vera mixed diet significantly alleviated these changes to nearly normal levels. The histopathological changes induced by CCl4 were also significantly attenuated by extract of larval‐fed fermented aloe vera mixed diet treatment. The results suggest that the beneficial effect of fermented aloe vera mixed diet on larval growth may be to stimulate the larval life cycle, and 15% larval‐fed fermented aloe vera mixed diet exhibits potent hepatoprotective effects on CCl4‐induced liver injury in rats, likely due to increased glutathione contents and the inhibition of lipid peroxidation.
All‐Trans Retinal Mediates Light‐Induced Oxidation in Single Living Rod Photoreceptors†
Authors: Masutomi Kosuke , Chen Chunhe , Nakatani Kei , Koutalos Yiannis
Published: March 2012

All‐trans retinal is a potent photosensitizer that is released in photoreceptor outer segments by the photoactivated visual pigment following the detection of light. Photoreceptor outer segments also contain high concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and are thus particularly susceptible to oxidative damage such as that initiated by light via a photosensitizer. Upon its release, all‐trans retinal is reduced within the outer segment to all‐trans retinol, through a reaction requiring metabolic input in the form of NADPH. The phototoxic potential of physiologically generated all‐trans retinal was examined in single living rod photoreceptors obtained from frog (Rana pipiens) retinas. Light‐induced oxidation was measured with fluorescence imaging using an oxidation‐sensitive indicator dye from the shift in fluorescence between the intact and oxidized forms. Light‐induced oxidation was highest in metabolically compromised rod outer segments following photoactivation of the visual pigment rhodopsin, and after a time interval, sufficiently long to ensure the release of all‐trans retinal. Furthermore, light‐induced oxidation increased with the concentration of exogenously added all‐trans retinal. The results show that the all‐trans retinal generated during the detection of light can mediate light‐induced oxidation. Its removal through reduction to all‐trans retinol protects photoreceptor outer segments against light‐induced oxidative damage.
Oral status, oral hygiene, and patient satisfaction in the elderly with dental implants dependent on substantial needs of care for daily living
Authors: Olerud Eva , Hagman‐Gustafsson Marie‐Louise , Gabre Pia
Published: March 2012

Using osseointegrated implants to replace teeth is a routine procedure today. This study investigated oral status, oral hygiene habits, and patient satisfaction in elderly with dental implants who were dependent on substantial support for daily living. Twenty‐six persons over the age of 65 who were dependent on supportive care were examined. Data collected included the number of teeth and implants, plaque scores, bleeding on probing, and oral hygiene habits. Self‐perceived knowledge about managing their implants and satisfaction with the implants was recorded. Subjects had a total of 148 natural teeth and 144 implants. Only a few signs of oral disease were found and the tissues around implants were healthier than around natural teeth. No correlations between oral hygiene habits and plaque scores or bleeding were found. A majority of the subjects were satisfied with their implants. Dental implants have satisfactory function even in individuals who are elderly and have substantial needs for supportive care.
Constitutive gray hair in mice induced by melanocyte‐specific deletion of c‐Myc
Authors: Pshenichnaya Irina , Schouwey Karine , Armaro Marzia , Larue Lionel , Knoepfler Paul S. , Eisenman Robert N. , Trumpp Andreas , Delmas Véronique , Beermann Friedrich
Published: March 2012

c‐Myc is involved in the control of diverse cellular processes and implicated in the maintenance of different tissues including the neural crest. Here, we report that c‐Myc is particularly important for pigment cell development and homeostasis. Targeting c‐Myc specifically in the melanocyte lineage using the floxed allele of c‐Myc and Tyr::Cre transgenic mice results in a congenital gray hair phenotype. The gray coat color is associated with a reduced number of functional melanocytes in the hair bulb and melanocyte stem cells in the hair bulge. Importantly, the gray phenotype does not progress with time, suggesting that maintenance of the melanocyte through the hair cycle does not involve c‐Myc function. In embryos, at E13.5, c‐Myc‐deficient melanocyte precursors are affected in proliferation in concordance with a reduction in numbers, showing that c‐Myc is required for the proper melanocyte development. Interestingly, melanocytes from c‐Myc‐deficient mice display elevated levels of the c‐Myc paralog N‐Myc. Double deletion of c‐Myc and N‐Myc results in nearly complete loss of the residual pigmentation, indicating that N‐Myc is capable of compensating for c‐Myc loss of function in melanocytes.
Trade and Regional Inequality
Authors: Rodríguez‐Pose Andrés
Published: March 2012

abstract

This article examines the relationship between openness and within‐country regional inequality across 28 countries over the period 1975–2005. In particular, it tests whether increases in trade lead to rising inequalities, whether these inequalities recede in time, and whether increases in global trade affect the developed and developing worlds differently. Using static and dynamic panel data analysis, I found that while increases in trade per se do not lead to greater territorial polarization, in combination with certain country‐specific conditions, trade has a positive and significant association with regional inequality. States with higher interregional differences in sectoral endowments, a lower share of governmental expenditures, and a combination of high internal transaction costs with a higher degree of coincidence between the regional income distribution and regional foreign market access positions have experienced the greatest rise in territorial inequality when exposed to greater trade flows. Hence, changes in trade regimes have a more polarizing and enduring effect in low‐ and middle‐income countries whose structural features tend to enhance the trade‐inequality effect and whose levels of internal spatial inequality are, on average, significantly higher than in high‐income countries.
Fractures of the withers in horses
Authors: Piat P. , Blond L. , Spriet M. , Galuppo L. , Laverty S.
Published: March 2012

The objective was to determine the prognostic features and long‐term outcome of withers fractures in horses. Medical records and radiographs of 14 horses with withers fractures from 2 veterinary teaching hospitals were reviewed. Case details, presentation, clinical signs, radiographs, treatment and outcome were assessed. In all cases, withers fractures were found to occur following a fall on the back. Although horses were often presented with severe acute clinical signs, the long‐term prognosis was good, in the absence of neurological signs, and following extended conservative management (an approximate 6 month rest period).
Reasons for binge drinking among undergraduate students: An application of behavioural reasoning theory
Authors: Norman Paul , Conner Mark T. , Stride Chris B.
Published: March 2012

Objectives. This study sought to apply behavioural reasoning theory (BRT) to the prediction of undergraduate students’ binge drinking intentions and behaviour. The reasons students use to justify and defend binge drinking may provide important information on motivations underlying such behaviour.

Methods. Undergraduate students (N= 265) completed questionnaires assessing their reasons for and against binge drinking, attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, intention, and past behaviour. Frequency of binge drinking was assessed at 1‐week follow‐up (N= 172).

Results. A series of path analyses were conducted to assess the direct and indirect effects of the BRT variables on binge drinking intentions and behaviour. The variables under consideration accounted for 80% of the variance in binge drinking intentions (with past behaviour, reasons for binge drinking, and attitude having significant direct effects on intention), and 34% of the variance in binge drinking at 1‐week follow‐up (with past behaviour, perceived behavioural control, and intention having significant direct effects on future behaviour). Additional regression analyses revealed that respondents who strongly endorsed being sociable and having fun as reasons for binge drinking were more likely to intend to engage in binge drinking over the subsequent week.

Conclusions. The results provide support for BRT as a framework for understanding undergraduate students’ binge drinking intentions and behaviour, and suggest that interventions need to focus on the social reasons for engaging in binge drinking in undergraduate students.
Predicting caregiver gains: A longitudinal study
Authors: Parveen Sahdia , Morrison Val
Published: March 2012

Objectives. The aim of this study was to examine if changes in motivations to care, familism, illness perceptions, caregiver tasks, coping, and social support were related to caregiver reported gains (subjective feelings of satisfaction and rewards as a result of the care role).

Design. A longitudinal design was employed whereby 123 caregivers completed a questionnaire at three time points: baseline, 3 months, and 9 months from baseline.

Method. Independent variables were converted into residual change scores (between time 1 and time 2) and their influence on caregiver gains at time 2 and time 3 was examined.

Results. Caregiver reported gains remained stable over time. Hierarchical regression analysis found that an increase in illness coherence was a strong predictor of caregiver gains at time 2, whereas predictors of time 3 gains included ethnicity, number of hours caregiving, and an increase in self‐distraction and denial as coping methods.

Conclusion. The study has implications for the development of time‐specific interventions to increase caregiver gains and also for service development.
A Novel Device to Apply Controlled Flexion and Extension to the Rat Knee Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Stasiak Mark E. , Wiznia Dan , Alzoobaee Saif , Ciccotti Michael C. , Imhauser Carl W. , Voigt Clifford , Torzilli Peter A. , Deng Xiang-Hua , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: March 2012

We designed and validated a novel device for applying flexion-extension cycles to a rat knee in an in vivo model of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R). Our device is intended to simulate rehabilitation motion and exercise post ACL-R to optimize physical rehabilitation treatments for the improved healing of tendon graft ligament reconstructions. The device was validated for repeatability of the knee kinematic motion by measuring the force versus angular rotation response from repeated trials using cadaver rats. The average maximum force required for rotating an ACL reconstructed rat knee through 100 degrees of flexion-extension was 0.4 N with 95% variability for all trials within ±0.1 N.
Combined Convective-Radiative Thermal Analysis of Inclined Roof Top Solar Chimney
Authors: Seytier Charline , Naraghi Mohammad H.
Published: March 2012

A model for the combined spectral radiative and convective heat transfer analysis of solar chimneys is developed. The radiation part of this model is based on the spectral distribution of the solar heat flux and spectral radiative properties solar chimney components. Two methods are used for the convective part of this model, empirical correlations and a CFD analysis. The empirical correlations consist of stack effect correlation for air flow motion and convective heat transfer correlation for heat transfer coefficient calculations. The empirical correlations were used to obtain an initial estimation of surface temperatures which were then used in a CFD model to determine an improved estimation of the heat transfer coefficients and flow rates. By iterating between the spectral radiative and CFD models a converged value for the solar chimney flow rate and its thermal characteristics is obtained. The model is used to predict the volume flow rate of air moved for various configurations of solar chimneys (slopes and air gap distance).
Photovoltaic–Thermoelectrical Generator Using Concentrated Solar Energy
Authors: Pe´rez Jose´ G. , Jime´nez Sandra , Iniesta Salvador A. , Sosa-Sa´nchez Jose´ L. , Marti´nez Javier
Published: March 2012

Electrical energy can be generated by using solar energy concentration. Normally, this type of systems requires a special device to achieve optimal heat dissipation. A no cover power Bi-Junction Transistor (BJT) has this advantage. An electrical power generator may be obtained if concentrated solar radiation is applied directly to the surface of a power transistor such as the MJ15023. The waste heat of the BJT is removed by a power thermoelectric module, and then a co-generation system may be obtained. This paper shows how this system is implemented and the results are evaluated to show the advantages of this type of generator.
Water Scarcity and Solar Desalination Systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Case of Northern Cyprus
Authors: Agboola O. Phillips , Egelioglu F.
Published: March 2012

The constant decline of renewable water in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and the Mediterranean regions qualify these two regions the most water scarce in the world. Water scarcity can be defined as a situation where there is not enough water to meet all local demand. These demands may include water needed for ecosystems, agricultural and domestic use. Water is definitely physically scarce in the MENA and the Mediterranean regions with less than 1000 m3/capita/year and the scarcity is related to domestic water, fresh water for drinking and water for food production. Water scarcity in these regions is a function of both water supply and water demand as both applies in most of the countries. Using the Falkenmark indicator the Mediterranean regions will see increased deterioration in the availability of renewable water and more people will suffer the effects of water shortage. The area will face major constraints in meeting water requirements for agriculture in the coming decades. The severe impacts of the non-availability of renewable water in these regions are cushioned by the development of desalination technology that is at an advanced stage in most of the countries in the region. Water desalination technology provides unlimited and constant supply of high quality water, and reduces the pressure on freshwater ecosystems and groundwater resources. Selection of the appropriate desalination technology, use of renewable energy and a proper method of dealing with high salinity wastewater discharge are very important measures necessary to mitigate the negative impacts of desalination activity, reduce desalination costs and make desalination sustainable and reliable. This work reviews the nature of water scarcity in the Eastern Mediterranean region and advances in solar desalination using the Northern part of Cyprus as a case study.
Thermal Energy Storage and its Potential Applications in Solar Thermal Power Plants and Electricity Storage
Authors: Ma Zhiwen , Glatzmaier Greg C. , Kutscher Charles F.
Published: March 2012

With the rapid growth of renewable power generation, economically storing large quantities of solar- and wind-generated electricity may become as important as renewable power itself. The combination of renewable power generation and energy storage can overcome the variability of renewable power generation alone and create the opportunity for renewable generation to provide base-load electricity. For peak power usage, the integration of renewable power and storage of excess electricity has several significant and positive impacts: expanding the renewable energy portion of total electricity generation, improving the peak-load response, and coordinating the electricity supply and demand over the grid. Several energy storage approaches exist, with mechanical, chemical, and electrical methods either in use now or being developed. Comparing their efficiencies as well as their economic uses for different scales and applications helps determine the right technology for the right purpose. This paper will study the possibility of using thermal energy storage as a means for electricity storage, and compare it to other energy storage methods including batteries, flywheels, compressed air, and pumped hydropower.
Power Generation From Wind Turbines in a Solar Chimney
Authors: Foote Tudor , Agarwal Ramesh
Published: March 2012

In past several years, several studies have shown that the shrouded wind turbines can generate greater power compared to bare turbines. A solar chimney not only generates an upward draft of the wind inside the solar tower but also creates a shroud around the wind turbine. There is large number of empty silos on farms, especially in mid-western U.S. They can be used as a solar chimney with minor modifications at very modest cost. The objective of this study is to determine the potential of these silos/chimneys in generating wind-power by installing a wind turbine inside the silo. An analytical/computational study is performed to evaluate this potential by employing the well known commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software FLUENT. An actuator disc model is used to model the turbine. Calculations are performed for three cases using the dimensions of a typical silo and assuming Class 3 wind velocity: (a) bare turbine (without enclosing silo), (b) turbine enclosed by a cylindrical silo, and (c) the turbine enclosed by the cylindrical silo with a diffuser at the top of the silo. The incompressible Navier-Stokes equations with Boussinesq approximation and a two equation realizable k–ε model are employed in the calculations. Cp and generated power are calculated for the three cases. It was found that the silo increases the Cp beyond the Betz’s limit significantly and as a result the generated power; this effect is consistent with that found in the recent literature that the shrouded wind-turbines can generate greater power than the bare turbines. The inclusion of a diffuser on top of the silo further increases the generated power and Cp. The results reported here are for typical silo dimensions and wind speeds; the results for silos with different dimensions and wind speeds can be easily generated. This study shows the potential of using abandoned silos in mid-west for wind power generation.
Study, Simulation and Analysis for a Future Global Sustainable Mobility
Authors: Velasco Eduardo , Rinco´n Eduardo
Published: March 2012

H2 is considered the main contributor to accelerate the introduction of renewable energies (REs) however electricity is by no means the only efficient path to generate H2. Battery and fuel cell complement each other, pure battery car will not be the general solution for our future mobility needs, but the fuel cell on the other hand cannot perform well without a battery. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have the potential to meet short-term stringent regulations as well as fuel economy (FE) and CO2 goals, and can therefore be considered as the first step forward into global sustainable mobility (GSM) vision. In addition, efficient use of energy and fuel diversity is destined to emerge in the near future, allowing significant use of RE sources in the transportation sector. I will briefly discuss an analysis and simulation of the future vehicle propulsion systems (FVPSs) to meet a potential GSM vision as a long-term thinking that might produce better short-term decisions.