bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL‐8 from Local Subcutaneous Wounds Regulates CD11b Activation
Authors: Lundahl J. , Jacobson S. H. , Paulsson J. M.
Published: January 2012

The cellular and soluble mediators of a dermal inflammation can be studied by the skin chamber technique. The aim of this study was to address the physiological effect of soluble mediators, released into the skin chamber, with special focus on neutrophil CD11b activation. Mediators released at the inflammatory site were studied by Milliplex and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and correlated with transmigration and CD11b activation in vivo and in vitro. Transmigration was studied by the skin chamber technique and by the transwell method, and expression of the CBRM1/5 epitope on activated CD11b was analysed by flow cytometry following in vivo and in vitro incubation with chamber fluid or recombinant interleukin‐8 (IL‐8). Leucocyte in vivo and in vitro transmigration both correlated with the concentrations of IL‐1β, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and IL‐8 at P < 0.05 (R > 0.7). Furthermore, CD11b was activated, in terms of exposure of the activation epitope, on neutrophils after 30 min of in vitro incubation with chamber fluid and correlated solely with the concentration of IL‐8, P < 0.05 (R = 0.72). In vitro incubation with recombinant IL‐8 confirmed a concentration‐dependent expression of the activation epitope; however, induction of CBRM1/5 by recombinant IL‐8 required a concentration that was significantly higher compared with that in chamber fluid. In addition, the CBRM1/5 epitope was analysed on in vivo extravasated neutrophils that displayed a significantly higher expression compared with circulating neutrophils, P = 0.04. We conclude that IL‐8 is the major factor regulating the expression of CD11b activation epitope in neutrophils.
Socially Influenced Behaviour and Learning in Locusts
Authors: Lancet Yaara , Dukas Reuven
Published: January 2012

As a part of our research on the evolution of social learning in insects, we examined socially influenced behaviour and social learning in desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) nymphs and adults. In the nymphs, the only positive effect we documented was an increased tendency to feed while in the company of another locust than alone. The adults, on the other hand, showed significant preference for joining others (local enhancement) in both the contexts of feeding and egg laying. Neither nymphs nor adults, however, showed social learning. Our preliminary analyses pointed to locusts as a likely insect that might possess social learning. Our research, when taken together with research on phase‐shifts and swarm/marching behaviour of gregarious locusts, suggests that the behavioural dynamics of gregarious locusts may make local enhancement but not social learning beneficial. The possible difference we documented between the nymphs and adults could enable us to further explore the proximate and ultimate mechanisms that underlie socially influenced behaviour.
Screening tools for frailty in primary health care: A systematic review
Authors: Pialoux Tanneguy , Goyard Jean , Lesourd Bruno
Published: January 2012

Frailty is the loss of resources in several domains leading to the inability to respond to physical or psychological stress. The evaluation of frailty is generally carried out using the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment. For this evolving and potentially reversible syndrome, screening and early intervention are a priority in primary health care, and general practitioners require a simple screening tool. The aim of the present work was to review the literature for validated screening instruments for frailty in primary health care setting. A search was carried out on PubMed and Cochrane Central in June 2011. A total of 10 instruments screening for frailty in primary health care were listed, analysed and compared. It is difficult to show which tool today is the best for screening for frailty in the elderly in primary care settings. Two instruments are potentially suitable – the Tilburg Frailty Indicator and the SHARE Frailty Index. In addition, these instruments require validation in larger studies in primary health care settings and with more quality criteria. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 189–197.
A retrospective analysis comparing the safety and efficacy of chemotherapy in elderly and non‐elderly non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Tsubata Yukari , Honda Takeshi , Okimoto Tamio , Miura Kiyotaka , Karino Fumi , Iwamoto Shinichi , Suzuki Taeko , Hamaguchi Shunichi , Kanda Hibiki , Sutani Akihisa , Kuraki Takashige , Isobe Takeshi
Published: January 2012

Aim:  The number of elderly patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is increasing in Japan. We retrospectively analyzed and compared the safety and efficacy of chemotherapy in elderly and non‐elderly NSCLC patients who received chemotherapy at Shimane University Hospital.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective analysis of survival in a series of 112 NSCLC patients treated from 2004 through 2009. We compared the data from the elderly group (≥70 years‐of‐age, 56 patients) with the non‐elderly group (<70 years‐of‐age, 56 patients) who had similar characteristics, such as sex and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status. We analyzed the patient characteristics, therapeutic regimen, dose intensity, toxicity and survival time in both groups.

Results:  The patient characteristics were comparable between the two groups; however, there was a significant difference between the choice of first‐line therapeutic regimen. A platinum‐doublet regimen was more frequently used in the non‐elderly population (39.3% vs 64.3% for the elderly patients vs the non‐elderly patients, respectively; P < 0.01), whereas single agents and epidermal growth factor receptor‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors were more frequent in the elderly population (26.8% vs 10.7%, 19.6% vs 7.1%; P < 0.05, respectively). The relative dose intensity was approximately 80% or higher for all regimens, and toxicity was acceptable. The median survival time was 24.4 months and 18.6 months in the elderly and non‐elderly groups, respectively.

Conclusion:  This retrospective study suggests that elderly patients can safely receive effective chemotherapy similar to non‐elderly patients under careful observation and management. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 499–505.
Use of FloSeal hemostatic matrix in a patient with severe postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Lemmer Robert , Albrech Matthias , Bauer Guy
Published: January 2012

FloSeal (hemostatic gelatin matrix with a human‐derived thrombin component; Baxter Healthcare, Deerfield, IL, USA) hemostatic matrix is used as an adjunct to hemostasis when conventional procedures have proved ineffective. In the present case, FloSeal was used in combination with transfusions, NovoSeven (recombinant activated human factor VIIa; Novo Nordisk, Copenhagen, Denmark) and compression to achieve hemostasis in a patient with postpartum bleeding and hypofibrinogenemia due to primary acute fatty liver of pregnancy. The patient presented with signs of acute hepatic failure, modified renal failure and bleeding disorder at week 37 of pregnancy. She suffered persistent hemorrhage after a soft vacuum‐assisted delivery. Local hemostasis was achieved, but not maintained and metrorrhagia resumed requiring transfusion. FloSeal was applied intrauterine and to the vaginal walls, and stable hemostasis was achieved after 2 h. At the one‐month post‐delivery visit, anatomic and physiological status had returned to normal, although the patient had low fibrinogen and prothrombin activity. This case demonstrates the safety and effectiveness of FloSeal in combination with conventional procedures to achieve hemostasis in postpartum bleeding in a patient with hypofibrinogenemia.
Similar risk for hemangiomas after amniocentesis and transabdominal chorionic villus sampling
Authors: Bauland Constantijn G. , Smit Jeroen M. , Scheffers Saskia M. , Bartels Ronald H. , van den Berg Paul , Zeebregts Clark J. , Spauwen Paul H.
Published: January 2012

Aim:  In an earlier study we have shown that transcervical chorionic villus sampling in excess of 90 mg increases the risk for hemangiomas of infancy three‐ to four‐fold compared to amniocentesis. In the present study we investigated whether transabdominal chorionic villus sampling (TA‐CVS), in which the samples are smaller, carries the same risk.

Material and Methods:  Retrospectively, data were analyzed from 200 consecutive TA‐CVS procedures and 200 consecutive amniocentesis procedures. Forty‐two TA‐CVS procedures and 27 amniocentesis procedures were excluded on predefined criteria. Questionnaires were sent to the parents asking if there was any skin mark on the child: vascular, pigmented or otherwise. All hemangiomas were clinically confirmed.

Results:  In the TA‐CVS group, 118/158 questionnaires (75%), and in the amniocentesis group 134/173 questionnaires (77%) were returned. Based on the results of the questionnaire (i.e. mentioning of any skin lesion), 24 children in the TA‐CVS group and 42 children in the amniocentesis group qualified for a physical examination. In the TA‐CVS group 11/118 children (9%) had one or more hemangiomas. In the amniocentesis group 6/134 children (4%) had one or more hemangiomas. There was no statistical difference between the two groups (P = 0134).

Conclusion:  These results suggest that TA‐CVS does not cause an increase in the prevalence of hemangioma compared to amniocentesis. A larger series is, however, necessary to confirm this.
Are the cardiac dimensions spared in growth‐restricted fetuses resulting from uteroplacental insufficiency?
Authors: Uerpairojkit Boonchai , Manotaya Saknan , Tanawattanacharoen Somchai , Wuttikonsammakit Piyawadee , Charoenvidhya Dhiraphongs
Published: January 2012

Aim:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), specifically from uteroplacental insufficiency, on fetal cardiac dimensions.

Material and Methods:  Cardiac circumference (CC) and cardiac area (CA) were measured in four‐chamber view in 143 normal fetuses between 18 and 40 weeks of gestation. A study group comprised a homogeneous group of 49 IUGR fetuses with abnormal umbilical artery impedance. Multiple regression analysis was used to compare the cardiac dimensions between normal and IUGR fetuses and to determine if there were differences in cardiac measurements between those with normal and with abnormal ductus venosus Doppler.

Results:  Fetal cardiac dimensions did not differ significantly between normal and IUGR fetuses. In IUGR fetuses, cardiac dimensions were not statistically different between those with normal and abnormal ductus venosus Doppler.

Conclusion:  Cardiac dimensions are spared and may be used for gestational age estimation in growth‐restricted fetuses resulting from uteroplacental insufficiency.
Delayed transanal repair of persistent coloanal anastomotic leak in diverted patients after resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Blumetti J. , Chaudhry V. , Prasad L. , Abcarian H.
Published: January 2012

Aim  Anastomotic leakage is a feared complication of colorectal surgery and can be devastating in low pelvic anastomosis. With the advent of nonoperative treatments for leakage, the question of management of persistent low colorectal and coloanal anastomosis arises. A review of patients who have undergone transanal repair of anastomotic leakage is presented.

Method  A review of all anastomoses performed in the Division of Colorectal surgery at two institutions, from January 2000 to June 2008, was performed. Anastomotic leakage was defined as the finding at reoperation of a dehiscence, or radiographic findings of extravasation from the anastomosis, or the identification of intra‐abdominal abscess formation at the site of the anastomosis, enterocutaneous fistula or rectovaginal fistula. Patients who underwent transanal repair of the leakage were identified.

Results  There were 663 low anterior resections performed during the study period. Of these, 36 experienced leakage of a low colorectal or coloanal anastomosis. Of these 36 patients, five underwent transanal repair of the anastomotic leak. All had had a low anterior resection for rectal cancer (coloanal = 4; low colorectal anastomosis = 1). Four had had prior chemoradiation and ileostomy defunctioning at the initial operation. The fifth had an ileostomy created to treat a leak. Six transanal repairs were performed, including endorectal advancement flap (n = 3), dermal flap (n = 1), direct suture repair (n = 1) and debridement of an infected cavity (n = 1). At the time of the present assessment, four patients had undergone reversal of ileostomy after radiographic evidence of complete healing and the fifth patient has a persistent leak.

Conclusion  Transanal repair of a persistent low colorectal or coloanal anastomotic leakage is feasible in selected cases, even when chemoradiation has been performed.
Nocturia is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease and death
Authors: Lightner Deborah J. , Krambeck Amy E. , Jacobson Debra J. , McGree Michaela E. , Jacobsen Steven J. , Lieber Michael M. , Roger Véronique L. , Girman Cynthia J. , St. Sauver Jennifer L.
Published: January 2012

Study Type – Prognosis (inception cohort)

Level of Evidence 1b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Nocturia has been associated with multiple chronic conditions, however, previous studies have been conducted only at a single time.

We found that nocturia preceded the development CHD in young men. Moderate nocturia may be an early marker of CHD in young men.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether nocturia is associated with the development of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, coronary heart disease (CHD) and occurrence of death.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We studied data obtained from a retrospective cohort of randomly selected men, aged 40–79 years in 1990, from Olmsted County, MN, USA.

Moderate nocturia was defined as waking to urinate ≥2 times per night.

Men were followed every 2 years through repeated questionnaires and community medical records to assess development of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, and occurrence of death. CHD was ascertained through ongoing surveillance of heart disease in Olmsted County.

Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate associations between baseline nocturia and each of the outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 2447 men were followed for a median of 17.1 years (25th and 75th percentiles: 15.0, 17.4 years).

Moderate nocturia was not significantly associated with the later development of diabetes mellitus or hypertension in this study.

Younger men (<60 years of age) with moderate nocturia were more likely to develop CHD later in life than younger men without nocturia (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.68; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13, 2.49). This association was no longer significant when adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI) and urological medications (HR: 1.36; 95% CI: 0.87, 2.12).

Older men (≥60 years of age) with moderate nocturia were more likely to die than older men without moderate nocturia, even after adjusting for age, BMI, urological medications and CHD (HR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.15, 1.91).

CONCLUSION

Nocturia may be a marker for increased risk of CHD in younger men, and death in older men.
Do Powerful CEOs Determine Microfinance Performance?
Authors: Galema Rients , Lensink Robert , Mersland Roy
Published: January 2012

abstract

Recently, microfinance has been coming under public and media attacks. The microcredit crisis following from microfinance‐induced suicides in 2010 in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh indicates that weak corporate governance and imprudent risk taking have far‐reaching consequences. Yet, analyses of corporate governance mechanisms among microfinance institutions (MFIs) remain underdeveloped. As a response, this study examines the impact of CEO power on MFI risk taking by deriving explicit predictions of this effect from a characterization of the microfinance industry. Based on a sample of 280 microfinance institutions, our results suggest that powerful CEOs of microfinance non‐governmental organizations (NGOs) have more decision‐making freedom than powerful CEOs of other types of MFIs. This induces them to make more extreme decisions that increase risk. Furthermore, the decision‐making freedom powerful CEOs have in NGOs appears to lead to worse decisions, because the presence of powerful CEOs in microfinance NGOs is associated with lower performance.
Crizotinib (PF‐02341066) reverses multidrug resistance in cancer cells by inhibiting the function of P‐glycoprotein
Authors: Zhou Wen‐jing , Zhang Xu , Cheng Chao , Wang Fang , Wang Xiao‐kun , Liang Yong‐ju , To Kenneth Kin Wah , Zhou Wang , Huang Hong‐bing , Fu Li‐wu
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Besides targeting the well‐known oncogenic c‐Met, crizotinib is the first oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor inhibiting anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) in clinical trials for the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer. Here, we assessed the possible reversal of multidrug resistance (MDR) by crizotinib in vitro and in vivo.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

1‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐3,5‐ diphenylformazan was used in vitro and xenografts in nude mice were used in vivo to investigate reversal of MDR by crizotinib. To understand the mechanisms for MDR reversal, the alterations of intracellular doxorubicin or rhodamine 123 accumulation, doxorubicin efflux, ABCB1 expression level, ATPase activity of ABCB1 and crizotinib‐induced c‐Met, Akt and ERK1/2 phosphorylation were examined.

KEY RESULTS

Crizotinib significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents which are also ABCB1 substrates, in MDR cells with no effect found on sensitive cells in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, crizotinib significantly increased intracellular accumulation of rhodamine 123 and doxorubicin and inhibited the drug efflux in ABCB1‐overexpressing MDR cells. Further studies showed that crizotinib enhanced the ATPase activity of ABCB1 in a concentration‐dependent manner. However, expression of ABCB1 was not affected, and reversal of MDR by crizotinib was not related to the phosphorylation of c‐Met, Akt or ERK1/2. Importantly, crizotinib significantly enhanced the effect of paclitaxel against KBv200 cell xenografts in nude mice.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Crizotinib reversed ABCB1‐mediated MDR by inhibiting ABCB1 transport function without affecting ABCB1 expression or blocking the Akt or ERK1/2 pathways. These findings are useful for planning combination chemotherapy of crizotinib with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs.
Risk and Protective Factors for Educational Achievement Among Serious Offending Girls
Authors: Oudekerk Barbara A. , Chauhan Preeti , Reppucci N. Dickon
Published: January 2012

Using longitudinal data, this analysis: (1) documented educational outcomes for serious offending girls, and (2) identified risk and protective factors associated with academic achievement in mid‐adolescence and degree attainment by early adulthood. In mid‐adolescence, girls performed nearly one standard deviation below the population mean on academic achievement tests. Low IQ and special education needs were strong correlates of poor academic achievement, but living in a highly educated neighborhood was associated with higher academic achievement scores. By early adulthood, 62.7% of girls had received a General Educational Development (GED) or high school degree, and mid‐adolescent academic achievement was the strongest predictor of degree attainment. Results suggest a need for early academic intervention targeting individual and neighborhood factors among offending girls.
Correspondence Between Gonadal Steroid Hormone Concentrations and Secondary Sexual Characteristics Assessed by Clinicians, Adolescents, and Parents
Authors: Huang Bin , Hillman Jennifer , Biro Frank M. , Ding, Lili , Dorn Lorah D. , Susman Elizabeth J.
Published: January 2012

Adolescent sexual maturation is staged using Tanner criteria assessed by clinicians, parents, or adolescents. The physiology of sexual maturation is driven by gonadal hormones. We investigate Tanner stage progression as a function of increasing gonadal hormone concentration and compare performances of different raters. Fifty‐six boys (mean age, 12.7 ± 1.3 years) and 52 girls (mean age, 12.0 ± 1.6 years) were seen at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Estradiol and testosterone concentrations were determined from three morning serum samples and Tanner stage by three different raters (clinician, parent, and adolescent). Results confirm that Tanner criteria reflect gonadal hormone concentrations, and clinician rating provides optimal assessment. Detailed insight about the strengths and limitations of different raters is provided, augmenting the scientific understanding of pubertal development.
Therapy Switching, Augmentation, and Discontinuation in Patients with Osteoarthritis and Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Gore Mugdha , Sadosky Alesia B. , Leslie Douglas L. , Tai Kei‐Sing , Emery Paul
Published: January 2012

Background:  Recommended pain treatments for osteoarthritis (OA) and chronic low back pain (CLBP) are suboptimal, and limited information is available regarding patterns of pharmacotherapy among patients with these conditions.

Aims:  Evaluate patterns of therapy switching, augmentation, and discontinuation after treatment initiation with select pain medications in patients with OA and CLBP.

Methods:  Using the U.K. The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database, OA and CLBP patients newly prescribed (index‐event) nonselective nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NS‐NSAIDs), cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors (Cox‐2s), acetaminophen, tramadol and weak or strong opioids were selected. Descriptive statistics, Kaplan–Meier analyses, and COX proportional hazards models were used to evaluate patterns of changes in pharmacotherapy during the 12‐month postindex period.

Results:  Rates of therapy switching, augmentation, and discontinuation, respectively, were significantly different (all P values < 0.0001) across the evaluated medication cohorts for both OA and CLBP patients. Discontinuation rates in OA patients were 91.9% (NS‐NSAIDs), 86.9% (Cox‐2s), 91.4% (acetaminophen), 89.7% (tramadol), 93.2% (weak opioids), and 84.3% (strong opioids); and in CLBP patients were 97.2% (NS‐NSAIDs), 94.0% (Cox‐2s), 95.0% (acetaminophen), 92.8% (tramadol), 97.0% (weak opioids), and 86.8% (strong opioids). The rates of switching (range 30.0% to 59.6%) and augmentation (range 7.5% to 15.2%) were lower. Estimated probability evaluations suggested that two‐thirds of patients who switched, augmented, or discontinued therapy did so within the first couple of months, and a majority did so within 6‐months of treatment initiation.

Conclusions:  This study demonstrates that therapy switching and discontinuation of select pain medications were common among OA and CLBP patients in the U.K. and may result from inadequate pain relief or undesirable side effects.
High Performance BaTiO3‐Based BME‐MLCC Nanopowder Prepared by Aqueous Chemical Coating Method
Authors: Zhang Yichi , Wang Xiaohui , Kim Jin‐Yong , Tian Zhibin , Fang Jian , Hur Kang‐Heon , Li Longtu
Published: January 2012

Dispersion plays an important role in aqueous chemical coating process for the preparation of BaTiO3‐based powder for base‐metal‐electrode multilayer ceramic capacitors (BME‐MLCCs) in our previous research. In this article, a powerful sand mill (SC‐milling) machine is utilized instead of traditional ball milling to produce BaTiO3 MLCC nanopowder, in which small ZrO2 beads help to achieve high centrifugal accelerations and avoid BaTiO3 agglomerates. As much as 1 kg BaTiO3 nanopowder has been effectively dispersed very well in one time, then a uniform coating of additives on BT nanoparticles has been achieved by aqueous chemical coating method. High performance X7R BaTiO3 nanoceramics with the average grain size of about 96 nm are obtained. The experimental result indicates that this technology can be feasible to the industry for manufacturing next generation BME‐MLCCs.
Low‐risk labor – outcomes after introduction of special guidelines combined with increased awareness of risk category
Authors: NESHEIM BRITT‐INGJERD
Published: January 2012

Objective. To study whether special guidelines for low‐risk parturients combined with increased awareness of risk category affect the management of labor. Design. Hospital‐based registry study. Setting. Two identical birth units in one university hospital in Oslo, Norway. Population. All low‐risk parturient women in the years 2001–2009; a total of 28 533 deliveries. Methods. From September 2005, a special protocol for management of low‐risk labors was introduced in one of the units. Data were obtained from standardized patient records, routinely recorded electronically. Outcomes were extracted for each year, and for the years 2006–2009 the outcomes for the two units were compared. Logistic regression was used to study factors associated with spontaneous vaginal delivery. Main outcome measures. Delivery method, use of electronic fetal monitoring, use of oxytocin, duration of labor and Apgar score at five minutes. Results. For nulliparas, the unit with special guidelines had a slightly higher rate of spontaneous vaginal deliveries (76 vs. 72.5%, p=0.006), lower use of oxytocin (48.8 vs. 56.1%, p<0.001) and electronic fetal monitoring (63.8 vs. 69.4%, p<0.001) and longer duration of labor. In multiparas, there was a small difference (15.5 vs. 18.4%, p=0.003) in the use of oxytocin. In a logistic regression, spontaneous vaginal delivery in nulliparas was negatively associated with use of oxytocin and electronic fetal monitoring, but not with the birth unit. Conclusions. A special protocol to increase awareness of risk category led to a small, although statistically significant, increase in the rate of spontaneous vaginal delivery in nulliparous, but not in parous low‐risk parturients.
Efficacy of tranexamic acid in the treatment of idiopathic and non‐functional heavy menstrual bleeding: A systematic review
Authors: NAOULOU BECKY , TSAI MING C.
Published: January 2012

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of tranexamic acid in the treatment of idiopathic and non‐functional heavy menstrual bleeding. Design. Systematic review. Population. Women with a diagnosis of idiopathic and non‐functional heavy menstrual bleeding treated with tranexamic acid. Methods. Electronic searches were conducted in literature databases up to February 2011 by two independent reviewers. We included all trials involving the efficacy of tranexamic acid for the treatment of heavy uterine bleeding. Pregnant, postmenopausal and cancer patients were excluded. Main outcome measures. Effect of tranexamic acid treatment on objective reduction of menstrual bleeding and improvement in patient quality of life. Results. A total of 10 studies met our inclusion criteria. Available evidence indicates that tranexamic acid therapy in women with idiopathic menorrhagia resulted in 34–54% reduction in menstrual blood loss. Following tranexamic acid treatment, patient's quality‐of‐life parameters improved by 46–83%, compared with 15–45% for norethisterone treatment. When compared with placebo, tranexamic acid use significantly decreased the blood loss by 70% in women with menorrhagia secondary to an intrauterine device (p<0.001). Limited evidence indicated potential benefit in fibroid patients with menorrhagia. No thromboembolic event was reported in all studies analyzed. Conclusions. Available evidence indicates that tranexamic acid treatment is effective and safe, and could potentially improve quality of life of patients presenting with idiopathic and non‐functional heavy menstrual bleeding. Data on the therapeutic efficacy of tranexamic acid in patients with symptomatic fibroids are limited, and further studies are therefore needed.
A bayesian network meta‐analysis on comparisons of enamel matrix derivatives, guided tissue regeneration and their combination therapies
Authors: Tu Yu‐Kang , Needleman Ian , Chambrone Leandro , Lu Hsein‐Kun , Faggion Clovis Mariano
Published: January 2012

Aims

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) and enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) are two popular regenerative treatments for periodontal infrabony lesions. Both have been used in conjunction with other regenerative materials. We conducted a Bayesian network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials on treatment effects of GTR, EMD and their combination therapies.

Material and Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted using the Medline, EMBASE, LILACS and CENTRAL databases up to and including June 2011. Treatment outcomes were changes in probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL) and infrabony defect depth. Different types of bone grafts were treated as one group and so were barrier membranes.

Results

A total of 53 studies were included in this review, and we found small differences between regenerative therapies which were non‐significant statistically and clinically. GTR and GTR‐related combination therapies achieved greater PPD reduction than EMD and EMD‐related combination therapies. Combination therapies achieved slightly greater CAL gain than the use of EMD or GTR alone. GTR with BG achieved greatest defect fill.

Conclusion

Combination therapies performed better than single therapies, but the additional benefits were small. Bayesian network meta‐analysis is a promising technique to compare multiple treatments. Further analysis of methodological characteristics will be required prior to clinical recommendations.
Langerhans cell sarcoma in a patient with hairy cell leukemia: common clonal origin indicated by identical immunoglobulin gene rearrangements
Authors: Furmanczyk Paul S. , Lisle Allison E. , Caldwell Russell B. , Kraemer Kenneth G. , Mercer Stephen E. , George Evan , Argenyi Zsolt B.
Published: January 2012

Histiocytic/dendritic cell sarcomas are rare tumors, a few of which have been reported in association with B‐cell lymphoma/leukemia. Isolated reports have documented identical immunoglobulin gene rearrangements suggesting a common clonal origin for both the sarcoma and the B‐cell neoplasm from individual patients. We report a case of a 75‐year‐old male with hairy cell leukemia who subsequently developed Langerhans cell sarcoma 1 year after his primary diagnosis of leukemia. The bone marrow biopsy containing hairy cell leukemia and skin biopsies of Langerhans cell sarcoma were evaluated by routine histology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometric immunophenotyping and PCR‐based gene rearrangement studies of the immunoglobulin heavy chain and kappa genes. The hairy cell leukemia showed characteristic morphologic, immunohistochemical and flow cytometric features. The Langerhans cell sarcoma showed pleomorphic cytology, a high mitotic rate and characteristic immunohistochemical staining for Langerin, S100 and CD1a. There was no evidence of B‐cell differentiation or a background B‐cell infiltrate based on the absence of immunoreactivity with antibodies to multiple B‐cell markers. Identical immunoglobulin gene rearrangements were identified in both the hairy cell leukemia and Langerhans cell sarcoma specimens. Despite the phenotypic dissimilarity of the two neoplasms, identical immunoglobulin gene rearrangements indicate a common origin.

Furmanczyk PS, Lisle AE, Caldwell RB, Kraemer KG, Mercer SE, George E, Argenyi ZB. Langerhans cell sarcoma in a patient with hairy cell leukemia: common clonal origin indicated by identical immunoglobulin gene rearrangements.
The effect of osteoporosis on residual ridge resorption and masticatory performance in denture wearers
Authors: Singhal Shelly , Chand Pooran , Singh Balendra Pratap , Singh Saumyendra Vikram , Rao Jitendra , Shankar Rama , Kumar Santosh
Published: January 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00610.x

The effect of osteoporosis on residual ridge resorption and masticatory performance in denture wearers

Aim:  To compare masticatory performance, masticatory efficiency and residual ridge resorption (RRR) in osteoporotic and non‐osteoporotic edentulous subjects after rehabilitation with complete dentures.

Method:  Thirty subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled from the patients visiting the Department of Prosthodontics for complete denture fabrication. Two groups consisting of control subjects (group I; N = 15) and osteoporotic subjects (group II; N = 15) were formed. Complete dentures satisfying certain criteria were fabricated for both groups. Masticatory performance and efficiency were measured 6 months after denture insertion. Areal measurements were taken on lateral cephalograms before and 6 months after denture fabrication. The data were then computed to analyse differences between groups I and II using SPSS statistical software version 15.0.

Results:  Six months after denture fabrication, the masticatory performance and efficiency were significantly higher (p < 0.001) for group I, with a significant decrease in maxillary and mandibular sagittal area seen in both groups. The rate of bone loss was more in group II compared with group I.

Conclusion:  Greater masticatory function was demonstrated by the non‐osteoporotic group, and the rate of RRR was more in the osteoporotic group compared with the normal group. In this pilot study, osteoporosis leads to greater RRR, decreased masticatory performance and efficiency in edentulous subjects 6 months after denture insertion. Screening for osteoporosis is suggested as a routine procedure for all edentulous subjects undergoing rehabilitation. Recall check‐ups for osteoporotic patients should be more frequent, and these patients may require more frequent denture remakes.
Relaxation Training with and without Muscle Contraction in Subjects with Psychophysiological Disorders2
Authors: PETERSON ALAN L. , HATCH JOHN P. , HRYSHKO‐MULLEN ANN S. , CIGRANG JEFFREY A.
Published: January 2012

Relaxation training with and without muscle contraction was evaluated in 30 adult patients undergoing biofeedback for psychophysiological disorders. Participants were randomized to two sessions of relaxation training with the type of training randomly determined for the first test session. Surface electromyographic activity was significantly lower during relaxation with muscle contraction (M ± SD: 4.68 ± 2.92 µV) compared to relaxation without muscle contraction (M ± SD: 5.91 ± 4.07 µV) (t(29) = 2.44, p = .021). Participants were about twice as likely to report that they preferred relaxation training without muscle contraction (53.3%) over training with muscle contraction (23.3%). No significant differences were found for fingertip temperature. The implications for the use of relaxation training in clinical practice are discussed.
The Relevancy of Community‐Based Methods: Using Diet within Native American and Alaska Native Adult Populations as an Example
Authors: Fialkowski Marie K. , Okoror Titilayo A. , Boushey Carol J.
Published: January 2012

The rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in Native Americans and Alaska Natives far exceed that of the general US population. There are many postulating reasons for these excessive rates including the transition from a traditional to a contemporary diet. Although information on the dietary intakes of Native American and Alaska Native communities are limited, there seems to be a consensus that the Native American and Alaska Native diet is high in total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Further information on the diet needs to be attained so that dietary interventions can effectively be implemented in these communities. An approach that is community based is proposed as the best solution to understanding the Native diet and developing culturally tailored interventions to sustainably improve diet. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume 5: 295–300
A legal analysis of the effects of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) and Clean Air Act on the commercialization of biobutanol as a transportation fuel in the United States
Authors: Slating Timothy A. , Kesan Jay P.
Published: January 2012

Biobutanol is currently a hot topic within discussions about second‐generation biofuels. Its advocates point to the fact that it possesses a higher energy content than traditional bioethanol and, most importantly, that it is compatible with existing fuel distribution infrastructure. While traditional biobutanol production processes have long since suffered from an inability to produce it in an economically viable manner, several recent technological advances have spurred interest from the private sector and several companies are now actively pursuing the commercialization of biobutanol as a transportation fuel. As such, a legal analysis of the regulatory frameworks affecting this commercialization is highly relevant. In this study, we detail and analyze the two most import regulatory frameworks affecting the successful commercialization of biobutanol as a transportation fuel in the United States. First, we provide a thorough description of the US Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2) and analyze its impact on biobutanol commercialization efforts. Next, we address the US Clean Air Act's so‐called ‘substantially similar’ prohibition and detail the three distinct regulatory paths it creates for biobutanol commercialization. Finally, we conclude by exploring ways in which these regulatory frameworks could be altered to mitigate unjustified regulatory burdens. While our study focuses on the commercialization of biobutanol, its regulatory descriptions and analysis are equally informative in regards to the commercialization of other alcohol‐based biofuels.
Association of Postprandial Serum Triglyceride Concentration and Serum Canine Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity in Overweight and Obese Dogs
Authors: Verkest K.R. , Fleeman L.M. , Morton J.M. , Groen S.J. , Suchodolski J.S. , Steiner J.M. , Rand J.S.
Published: January 2012

Background

Hypertriglyceridemia has been proposed to contribute to the risk of developing pancreatitis in dogs.

Objectives

To determine associations between postprandial serum triglyceride concentrations and canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) concentrations or pancreatic disease.

Animals

Thirty‐five client‐owned overweight (n = 25) or obese (n = 10) dogs weighing >10 kg.

Methods

Healthy dogs were prospectively recruited for a cross‐sectional study. Serum triglyceride concentrations were measured before and hourly for 12 hours after a meal. Fasting cPLI and canine trypsin‐like immunoreactivity (cTLI) concentrations were assayed. Cut‐off values for hypertriglyceridemia were set a priori for fasting (≥88, ≥177, ≥354, ≥885 mg/dL) and peak postprandial (≥133, ≥442, ≥885 mg/dL) triglyceride concentrations. The association between hypertriglyceridemia and high cPLI concentrations was assessed by exact logistic regression. Follow‐up was performed 4 years later to determine the incidence of pancreatic disease.

Results

Eight dogs had peak postprandial triglycerides >442 mg/dL and 3 dogs had fasting serum cPLI concentrations ≥400 μg/L. Odds of high cPLI concentrations were 16.7 times higher in dogs with peak postprandial triglyceride concentrations ≥442 mg/dL relative to other dogs (P < .001). Fasting triglyceride concentration was not significantly associated with cPLI concentrations. None of the dogs with high triglyceride concentrations and one of the dogs with low fasting and peak postprandial triglyceride concentrations developed clinically important pancreatic disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Overweight and obese dogs with peak serum postprandial triglyceride concentrations ≥442 mg/dL after a standard meal are more likely to have serum cPLI concentrations ≥400 μg/L, but did not develop clinically important pancreatic disease.
Clinicopathologic Features of Intracranial Central Neurocytomas in 2 Dogs
Authors: Rossmeisl J.H. , Piñeyro P. , Sponenberg D.P. , Garman R.H. , Jortner B.S.
Published: January 2012

Background

In humans, central neurocytomas are rare and typically benign intracranial tumors found within the lateral ventricles, although extraventricular variants have been reported. Intracranial central neurocytomas have not been previously recognized in domestic animals.

Objectives

To describe the clinicopathologic features of canine intracranial central neurocytomas.

Animals

Two dogs with spontaneous intracranial and intraventricular neoplasms.

Results

Both dogs experienced seizures, rapid neurological deterioration, and death from tumor‐associated complications within 5 days of the onset of clinical signs, and had neoplastic masses within the lateral ventricles. A brain MRI was performed in 1 dog, which revealed a T1‐isointense, heterogeneously T2 and FLAIR hyperintense, and markedly and heterogeneously contrast‐enhancing mass lesions within both lateral ventricles. Histologically, the neoplasms resembled oligodendrogliomas. The diagnosis of central neurocytoma was supported by documenting expression of multiple neuronal markers, including neuron‐specific enolase, synaptophysin, neural‐cell adhesion molecule, and neuronal nuclear antigen within the tumors, and ultrastructural evidence of neuronal differentiation of neoplastic cells.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Central neurocytoma should be a differential diagnosis for dogs with intraventricular brain masses. Morphologic differentiation of central neurocytoma from other intraventricular neoplasms, such as ependymoma or oligdendroglioma, can be difficult, and definitive diagnosis often requires immunohistochemical or ultrastructural confirmation of the neural origin of the neoplasm.
Bacterial Cellulose as a Template for the Formation of Polymer/Nanoparticle Nanocomposite
Authors: Zhijiang Cai , Chengwei Hou , Guang Yang , Jaehwan Kim
Published: January 2012

In this paper, we investigate a novel method using bacterial cellulose (BC) as template by in situ method to prepare BC/silver nanocomposites. We first introduce sonication procedure during immersion and reduction reaction process to make sure that the silver nanoparticles can be formed and distributed homogeneously throughout the whole bacterial cellulose network. The BC/silver nanocomposites were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). To examine the effect of varying solution concentrations on silver nanoparticles formation, the concentration of AgNO3 solution was increased from 0.01 M to 0.05 M and Ag+-ions were reduced by the same concentration of NaBH4. The effects of time and frequency of sonication on BC/silver nanocomposite preparation were also investigated by varying sonication time from 10 min to 60 min and sonication frequency from 20 kHz to 60 kHz. Compared with an ordinary process, ultrasound seems to be an effective way for ions to penetrate into BC and thus the weight percent of silver nanoparticles can be increased. Combined with TGA result, the weight percent of silver nanoparticles can be improved from 8.9% to 31.7% with simple sonication procedure performed by the same preparation condition. However, the average size of silver nanoparticles is around 15 nm, which is bigger than ordinary process. This may be due to the aggregation of small nanoparticles, especially at high AgNO3 concentration.
Experimental Characterization of Fuel-Air Mixing in a Multihole Tube
Authors: Zhang Chi , Xu Quanhong , Lin Yuzhen , Zhu Jing , Yuan Yixiang , Sung Chih-Jen
Published: January 2012

The multihole tube is an important component used for lean premixed prevaporized low-emission combustion in micro gas turbines, as it plays a key role in establishing uniform fuel-air mixture before flowing into the combustor. Recognizing that poor fuel-air mixing leads to increased emissions, it is therefore imperative to characterize the extent of fuel-air mixing at the exit of the multihole tube. In the present investigation, mixing characterization experiments were conducted by mapping the distribution of fuel-air equivalence ratios at the tube exit with gas analysis technique. Two different multihole tube configurations were tested and compared using aviation kerosene. Experiments were performed under atmospheric pressure, with an inlet air temperature of 480 K and an overall fuel-air equivalence ratio of 0.6. While the baseline configuration yielded the maximum magnitude of equivalence ratio deviation close to 35% at the tube exit, the modified configuration demonstrated much improved mixing uniformity with the maximum extent of equivalence ratio deviation being reduced to ∼10%. A three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics simulation was also carried out to illustrate the resulting flow field associated with the baseline configuration and suggest the needed configuration modifications for performance improvement. Experimental and computational results indicate that the matching of fuel atomization and flow field is the primary factor affecting fuel-air mixture uniformity. By optimizing the flow rate ratio of the axial jet air in the nozzle section to the swirling jet air in the tube section as well as the axial jet momentum, enhanced fuel-air mixture uniformity can be achieved.
Effects Due to the Temperature Measurement Section on the Performance Estimation of a Centrifugal Compressor Stage
Authors: Bianchini Alessandro , Ferrara Giovanni , Ferrari Lorenzo , Ballarini Valeria , Bianchi Lorenzo , Tapinassi Libero , Toni Lorenzo
Published: January 2012

A wide-ranging analysis was performed by GE Oil & Gas and the University of Florence to investigate the effects on the estimation of centrifugal compressor performance induced by a different choice of the total temperature measurement section. With this goal in mind, the study focused on the analysis of a commonly found discrepancy between the measurements at the impeller outlet section and at the stage exit section. Based on the experimental data collected on a centrifugal impeller, three main physical phenomena were analyzed and discussed in further detail. First, the effect of the heat exchange was examined, and its influence on the total temperature variation throughout the machine was extrapolated. Next, the influence of the heat-exchange phenomena affecting the temperature sensors was evaluated by means of numerical models and physical assumptions. Finally, the effects on the temperature measurement of the flow structure at the impeller outlet were investigated. In particular, a corrective model to account for the thermal inertia of the thermocouples normally applied in this section was applied to the experimental data. The corrected temperatures at the investigated measurement sections were then compared, and their influence on the correct stage performance estimation is discussed in this study.
Nonlinear Vibrations and Chaos in Floating Roofs
Authors: Shabani R. , Tariverdilo S. , Salarieh H.
Published: January 2012

Variational principle is used to derive the nonlinear response of the floating roof of cylindrical liquid storage tanks due to harmonic base excitations. The formulation accounts for nonlinearity due to large deflections of the floating roof. The derived nonlinear governing equation for the sloshing response of the floating roof has a cubic nonlinear stiffness term similar to the well known Duffing equation. It is shown that accounting for large deflections could substantially reduce the wave elevation for near resonance harmonic excitations. Evaluating the response of the nonlinear model for increasing amplitudes of near resonance harmonic excitations gives rise to the appearance of sub and super harmonics in the response. The broadband structure of the frequency spectrum, the fractal structure of the Poincare maps, and the bifurcation diagram as qualitative criteria and Lyapunov exponent evolution as quantitative criterion are used to investigate the emergence of chaotic response.