bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE ANALYSIS OF THE STABILITY OF PERMANENT GPS STATION VILNIUS (VLNS) / NUOLAT VEIKIANČIOS VILNIAUS (VLNS) GPS STOTIES STABILUMO ANALIZĖ / АНАЛИЗ СТАБИЛЬНОСТИ ПОСТОЯННО ДЕЙСТВУЮЩЕЙ СТАНЦИИ ГПС VILNIUS (VLNS)
Authors: Paršeliūnas Eimuntas , Kolosovskis Ričardas , Putrimas Raimundas , Būga Arūnas
Published: November 2011

Lithuania has been participating in the activities of the EUREF permanent network since 1996, when GPS station VILNIUS started regular continuous tracking of GPS satellites. The GPS station was established with a help of the Onsala Space Observatory (Sweden) and was mounted in the territory of Vilnius international airport (Lithuania). Four character identifier VLNS and DOMES number 10801M001 were assigned to VILNIUS GPS station by the International Earth Rotation Service in 1999. VILNIUS station is operated and maintained by the Institute of Geodesy of Vilnius Technical University. The main task of the permanent VLNS GPS station is to take part in EUREF activities and serve as reference to GPS campaigns in Lithuania.

The aim of this paper is to describe the evolution and current status of the technical equipment of VILNIUS station. The paper also presents the analysis of data quality and a few years interval of coordinate determination at VLNS within the EUREF network.

Santrauka

EUREF nuolat veikiančių stočių tinklo veikloje Lietuva dalyvauja nuo 1996 m., kai GPS VILNIAUS stotis pradėjo reguliarius matavimus iš GPS palydovų. Stotis įsteigta padedant Onsalos kosmoso observatorijai (Švedija). GPS stotis įrengta Vilniaus tarptautinio oro uosto teritorijoje 1999 metais. Tarptautinė žemės sukimositarnyba stočiai suteikė keturių simbolių identifikatorių VLNS ir DOMES numerį 10801M001. GPS VILNIAUS stotį prižiūri ir valdo Vilniaus Gedimino technikos universiteto Geodezijos instituto specialistai. Pagrindinis stoties uždavinys yra dalyvauti EUREF veikloje, ir tai turi būti atraminis geodezinis punktas GPS kampanijoms Lietuvoje. Straipsnio tikslas – aprašyti dabartinę techninės įrangos būklę ir jos tobulinimo eigą. Pateikiama kelerių metų matavimo duomenų kokybės analizė ir nustatytos koordinatės EUREF tinkle.

Резюме

В проекте сети постоянно действующих станций ГПС EUREF Литва участвует с 1996 г., когда станция VILNIUS стала производить постоянные измерения со спутников ГПС. Станция была основана при помощи Онсольской космической oбсерватории (Швеция). Станция ГПС установлена на территории Вильнюсского международного аэропорта. В 1999 г. Международная служба вращения Земли присвоила станции код VLNS и DOMES номер 10801М001. Станцией управляют специалисты из Геодезического института Вильнюсского технического университета им. Гедиминаса. Главной задачей станции является участие в мероприятиях EUREF, а также быть основным геодезическим пунктом в кампаниях ГПС на территории Литвы.

В статье преследовалась цель описать состояние технического оборудования станции и меры по его улучшению. Представлен анализ данных измерений ГПС за несколько лет и определены геодезические координаты в сети EUREF.
Health-related Quality of Life Outcomes of Adalimumab for Patients with Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Results from a Randomized Multicenter Study
Authors: STRAND VIBEKE , RENTZ ANNE M. , CIFALDI MARY A. , CHEN NAIJUN , ROY SANJOY , REVICKI DENNIS
Published: November 2011

Objective.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with significant impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We evaluated patient-reported outcomes including HRQOL outcomes following adalimumab plus methotrexate (MTX) therapy in patients with early RA.

Methods.

PREMIER was a phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, active-comparator clinical trial in early RA. Patients aged ≥ 18 years were randomly assigned to receive adalimumab 40 mg every other week (eow) plus weekly MTX, weekly MTX, or adalimumab 40 mg eow for 104 weeks. American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria were used to evaluate clinical efficacy and response. Outcomes were assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Short-Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), Short-Form 6 Dimension (SF-6D), visual analog scale (VAS) assessments of global disease activity (patient’s global assessment; PtGA) and pain, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F), and Health Utility Index Mark 3 (HUI-3).

Results.

Of 799 patients enrolled, 268 received adalimumab plus MTX, 257 received MTX monotherapy, and 274 received adalimumab monotherapy. Patients treated with adalimumab plus MTX demonstrated significant baseline to Week 104 improvements in HAQ-DI (p < 0.0001), SF-36 Physical Component Summary (p < 0.0001), 4 SF-36 domains [physical function (p < 0.0001), bodily pain (p <0.0001), vitality (p = 0.0139), role limitations-physical (p = 0.0005)], SF-6D (p = 0.0152), VAS-PtGA (p < 0.0001), VAS-pain (p < 0.0001), FACIT-F (p < 0.0001), and HUI-3 (p = 0.0034) scores versus patients treated with MTX monotherapy. Both SF-6D and HUI-3 were found to be sensitive preference-based measures for assessing the effects of treatment on multidimensional function. No clinically meaningful differences between adalimumab and MTX monotherapy groups were observed for most measures. For each measure, there was significant association between HRQOL improvement and ACR clinical response.

Conclusion.

Adalimumab plus MTX significantly improved physical functioning and HRQOL in patients with early RA over 2 years of treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00195663).
Biological Drug Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis: Effects on QT Interval and QT Dispersion
Authors: DI FRANCO MANUELA , PARADISO MICHELE , CECCARELLI FULVIA , SCRIVO ROSSANA , SPINELLI FRANCESCA ROMANA , IANNUCCELLI CRISTINA , VALESINI GUIDO
Published: November 2011

Objective.

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antagonists bring about significant improvement in chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA). There is some evidence that they can also have negative myocardial effects, but to date this issue has not been clarified. We evaluated changes in electrocardiographic measures [QT interval, corrected, dispersion, and dispersion corrected (QT, QTc, QTd, QTdc, respectively)] in patients with RA or SpA treated with anti-TNF agents (infliximab and etanercept), those treated with other biological agents (rituximab), and with methotrexate.

Methods.

We studied 38 consecutive patients with RA (21 patients) or SpA (19 patients) being treated with TNF-α antagonists, 8 patients with RA being treated with rituximab, and 13 patients (8 with RA and 5 with SpA) taking methotrexate. Electrocardiographs (ECG) were performed on all participants at baseline and 12 months after initiation of treatment, and the QT, QTc, and QTd were calculated with standard procedures.

Results.

After 12 months of treatment, significant increases over baseline values were observed in the mean QT (p < 0.009), QTd (p < 0.0001), and QTdc (p < 0.0001) of the anti-TNF group, but no significant changes were observed in those taking rituximab. QT changes in the anti-TNF group were unrelated to the disease (RA vs SpA) or drug (infliximab vs etanercept), and none were associated with clinical manifestations of cardiac disease.

Conclusion.

In patients with RA and SpA, TNF-α antagonists seem to increase the QT and QTd measures. Although these changes were completely asymptomatic, ECG may be indicated in patients being considered for anti-TNF therapy to identify those at risk for cardiac complications.
Treatment of Osteoarthritis with Continuous Versus Intermittent Celecoxib
Authors: STRAND VIBEKE , SIMON LEE S. , DOUGADOS MAXIME , SANDS GEORGE H. , BHADRA PRITHA , BREAZNA AURORA , IMMITT JEFF
Published: November 2011

Objective.

To determine whether “continuous” celecoxib is more efficacious than “intermittent” use in preventing osteoarthritis (OA) flares of the knee and/or hip.

Methods.

A double-blind, randomized, multicenter international study comparing efficacy and safety of continuous (daily) versus intermittent (as required during predefined OA flare) celecoxib 200 mg/day in 858 subjects, aged 18–80 years. The study consisted of 3 periods: (I) screening/washout visit; (II) open-label run-in with celecoxib; and (III) 22-week blinded treatment. Only subjects whose OA flares resolved in Period 2 (without subsequent flare) were randomized. The primary endpoint, number of flares per time of exposure during Period III (number of flares per month), was compared using analysis of variance with treatment as the independent variable. Acetaminophen was available as rescue medication.

Results.

Of 875 subjects randomized to treatment, 858 subjects received treatment. At randomization > 70% were female; mean age 58.6 years; mean disease duration 6.5 years; total Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index mean score 25.8; ∼45% had hypertension; and ∼20% were using aspirin (for cardiovascular prophylaxis). Subjects receiving continuous treatment reported 42% fewer OA flares/month than intermittent users (p < 0.0001) or 2.0 fewer OA flares over 22 weeks. Statistical and clinically meaningful benefits in secondary outcomes were also evident with continuous treatment. There were no differences in adverse events (AE) or new-onset/aggravated hypertension.

Conclusion.

Continuous treatment with celecoxib 200 mg/day was significantly more efficacious than intermittent use in preventing OA flares of the hip and knee, without an increase in overall AE, including gastrointestinal disorders and hypertension, during 22 weeks of treatment. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00139776.
An indicator based 'traffic light' model to pro-actively assess the occurrence of mycotoxins in tree nuts
Authors: Jeurissen S. , Seyhan F. , Kandhai M. , Dekkers S. , Booij C. , Bos P. , van der Fels-Klerx H.
Published: November 2011

This paper proposes an indicator based 'traffic light' model as a tool to pro-actively assess the occurrence of mycotoxins
in tree nuts. The model is built using a holistic approach and, consequently, uses indicators from inside and outside
the tree nut production chain as the basic elements. Temperature and relative humidity (pre-harvest), harvest
and drying, storage and transport conditions, crop variety and crop damage were selected as indicators. For these
indicators, measurable sub-indicators (model parameters) and risk categories were defined. With these insights, a
'traffic light' model was proposed that indicates the possible risk of occurrence of mycotoxins with colour signals;
'red' indicates high risk, 'yellow' medium risk, and 'green' low risk. The current model is specified for aflatoxins in
hazelnuts but can easily be adapted for other mycotoxins and/or tree nuts. Governmental organisations and the
commercial sector may use such a model to anticipate on the potential presence of mycotoxins by proactive risk
management.
Visual Evaluation of Different Multifocal Corneal Models for the Correction of Presbyopia by Laser Ablation
Authors: Alarcón Aixa , Anera Rosario G. , Soler Margarita , del Barco Luis Jiménez
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate the visual quality of two theoretical multifocal corneal models designed to correct presbyopia by corneal photoablation.

Methods:

Two theoretical multifocal corneal surfaces were analyzed by ray tracing: a central model (with a central zone for near vision and a peripheral zone for distance vision), and a peripheral model (with a central zone for distance vision and a peripheral zone for near vision). For both models, the effect of the size of the central zone and transition zone as well as the size of the pupil was evaluated.

Results:

Our results show that a smaller transition zone favors total visual quality in both models. The optimal size of the central zone depends both on the size of the transition zone used as well as the model. However, both models responded similarly with respect to the variations in pupil size, providing the same visual quality although in an opposite way.

Conclusions:

This work shows that the optimal diameter of the central zone is smaller for the central model than for the peripheral model. Also, pupil size plays a fundamental role in achieving multifocality, showing that patient’s pupil size should be thoroughly evaluated prior to multifocal refractive surgery.
Validity of Scaling Zernike Coefficients to a Larger Diameter for Refractive Surgery
Authors: Dai Guang-ming
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

To investigate the validity of a Zernike rescaling algorithm to a larger wavefront diameter.

Methods:

Using 4256 preoperative wavefront examinations, the variability of inter-examination wavefront root-mean-square (RMS) was compared to the error induced due to scaling Zernike coefficients to a larger diameter. The validity of scaling Zernike coefficients was set when the error due to the scaling was the same as the variability of the inter-examination wavefronts. The inter-examination variability was calculated from eyes having at least 3 same-day, preoperative examinations over the same diameters. Error from scaling Zernike coefficients to a larger diameter was calculated by comparing the wavefront for a (scaled-up) set of Zernike coefficients to the wavefront of the average of Zernike coefficient sets at a larger diameter for the same eye. Wavefront diameters of 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, and 7 mm were considered.

Results:

No significant difference was found for the variability for different pupil sizes. The error due to scaling Zernike coefficients to a larger pupil size was generally smaller than the inter-examination variability when the new diameter was 0.25 mm larger than the original diameter. The error was comparable to the inter-examination variability when the new diameter was 0.5 mm larger. The error became larger when the new diameter was >0.75 mm larger than the original diameter.

Conclusions:

Rescaling Zernike coefficients from a smaller diameter to a larger one has practical applications in optical zone extension for wavefront-guided refractive surgery.
Spherical Aberrations of Human Astigmatic Corneas
Authors: Zhao Huawei , Dai Guang-ming , Chen Li , Weeber Henk A. , Piers Patricia A.
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate whether the average spherical aberration of human astigmatic corneas is statistically equivalent to human nonastigmatic corneas.

Methods:

Spherical aberrations of 445 astigmatic corneas prior to laser vision correction were retrospectively investigated to determine Zernike coefficients for central corneal areas 6 mm in diameter using CTView (Sarver and Associates). Data were divided into groups according to cylinder power (0.01 to 0.25 diopters [D], 0.26 to 0.75 D, 0.76 to 1.06 D, 1.07 to 1.53 D, 1.54 to 2.00 D, and >2.00 D) and according to age by decade. Spherical aberrations were correlated with age and astigmatic power among groups and the entire population. Statistical analyses were conducted, and
P
<.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Mean patient age was 42.6±11 years. Astigmatic corneas had an average astigmatic power of 0.78±0.58 D and mean spherical aberration was 0.25±0.13 μm for the entire population and approximately the same (0.27 μm) for individual groups, ranging from 0.23 to 0.29 μm (
P
>.05 for all tested groups).

Conclusions:

Mean spherical aberration of astigmatic corneas was not correlated significantly with cylinder power or age (
P
>.05). Spherical aberrations are similar to those of nonastigmatic corneas, permitting the use of these additional data in the design of aspheric toric intra-ocular lenses.
Use of Processed Pericardium Graft to Plug Patulous Old Sclerostomy Track During Glaucoma Shunt Revision for Exposure
Authors: Shazly Tarek A. , Latina Mark A.
Published: November 2011

The authors demonstrate a reproducible technique using processed pericardium to seal sclerostomy track during glaucoma shunt revision. The suggested method involves placement of a wedge-shaped processed pericardial graft into the old sclerostomy tract following tube explantation. The graft is trimmed and sutured to the sclera. The tube is reinserted into a new sclerostomy and then sutured in place and covered in the usual fashion. This method allowed relatively easy treatment of three patients with patulous sclerostomy with necrotic edges. A successful tube revision and repositioning of the tube using this technique was performed on three patients with exposed tubes. The intraocular pressure was between 8 and 12 mm Hg from postoperative day 1. The authors suggest the use of pericardium plug to adequately seal the old sclerostomy track during glaucoma shunt revision. The plug allows tube repositioning at a new site without the need to suture the friable sclerostomy edges.
Adding Value to Logistics Services using ICT
Authors: Evangelista Pietro
Published: November 2011

The adoption of information and communication technology (ICT) is one of the most critical areas of innovation for third-party logistics service providers (3PLs). ICT is seen as tool for achieve service differentiation and improving connectivity with other supply chain partner. Nevertheless, many logistics service companies had failed to use ICT to gain competitive advantage as the implementation of technology innovation is a challenging and risky process involving huge resources. In the context of small 3PLs, technology adoption is particularly critical and ICT investments need to be carefully planned. The objective of this chapter is to investigate ICT adoption in small 3PLs through a case study analysis conducted in the Italian logistics service market. The role of technology in supporting service customization together with inhibitors and enabling factors influencing technology innovation are explored. Implications are derived from the research and supply chain innovation perspectives.
The Role of Logistics Service Providers in the Development of Sustainability-Related Innovation
Authors: Huge-Brodin Maria
Published: November 2011

Logistics service providers (LSPs) are important actors in the supply chain, and due to the transport intensive activities they manage, they can make a large contribution to the development of sustainable supply chains. They are often considered as reactive and quite passive in their role vis-à-vis their customers though many possess the critical logistics capabilities required to make distribution operations less damaging to the environment. Developing green logistics service offerings can be one way of greening the whole supply chain, though today there appears to be little demand for these services. In the longer term, however LSPs are likely to benefit from being an environmentally innovative and to apply their environmental knowledge more effectively inside their organisations. This will strengthen their competitive position in a future logistics market in which environmental capabilities become major selection criteria. Many of the innovative systems and practices may not be motivated primarily by a desire to preserve the environment but will, nevertheless, contribute to sustainable development. To make a major commitment to greening client’s supply chain, an LSP will often require a longer-term contract that supports investment in more environmentally friendly technology and business processes.
The Human Side of Supply Chains
Authors: Ancarani Alessandro , Di Mauro Carmela
Published: November 2011

The adoption of the behavioural approach for the study of OM and Supply Chain Management is still fairly novel. However, there is evidence that in order to improve supply chain management it is crucial to develop models that correctly describe human behaviour. Failure to account for behavioural components such as risk perception, time effects and social interaction may lead to models that are biased in their predictions. This chapter reviews extant behavioural research relevant to supply chain risk management. In particular, its implications for supply chain management are outlined, and opportunities for future developments of theory that is robust to behavioural effects are identified.
Caregiving for Patients With Heart Failure: Impact on Patients’ Families
Authors: Hwang Boyoung , Fleischmann Kirsten E. , Howie-Esquivel Jill , Stotts Nancy A. , Dracup Kathleen
Published: November 2011

Background

Factors that affect the impact of caregiving on patients’ family members who provide care to patients with heart failure have not been adequately addressed. In addition, social support and positive aspects of caregiving have received little attention.

Objective

To identify factors associated with the impact of caregiving.

Methods

Self-report data were collected from 76 dyads of patients with heart failure and their family caregivers. Clinical data were obtained from medical records.

Results

A sense of less family support for caregiving was associated with a higher New York Heart Association class of heart failure, being a nonspousal caregiver, lower caregivers’ perceived control, and less social support. More disruption of caregivers’ schedules was associated with higher class of heart failure, more care tasks, and less social support. Greater impact of caregiving on caregivers’ health was related to more recent patient hospitalization, lower caregivers’ perceived control, and less social support. Nonwhite caregivers and caregivers whose family member had fewer emergency department visits felt more positive about caregiving than did other caregivers. Social support had a moderating effect on the relationship between patients’ comorbid conditions and positive aspects of caregiving.

Conclusions

Caregiving has both positive and negative effects on family caregivers of patients with heart failure. The findings suggest the need for interventions to increase caregivers’ sense of control and social support. Family caregivers may need additional support immediately after patient hospitalizations to minimize the negative impact of caregiving.
Communication Difficulties and Psychoemotional Distress in Patients Receiving Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Khalaila Rabia , Zbidat Wajdi , Anwar Kabaha , Bayya Abed , Linton David M. , Sviri Sigal
Published: November 2011

Background

Difficulties in communication in intensive care patients receiving mechanical ventilation are a source of stressful experiences and psychoemotional distress.

Objectives

To examine the association between communication characteristics and psychoemotional distress among patients treated with mechanical ventilation in a medical intensive care unit and to identify factors that may be predictive of psychological outcomes.

Methods

A total of 65 critically ill patients, extubated within the preceding 72 hours, were included in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected by using a structured interview. Separate regression analysis of data on 3 psychoemotional outcomes (psychological distress, fear, and anger) were used for baseline variables, communication characteristics, and stressful experiences.

Results

Difficulty in communication was a positive predictor of patients’ psychological distress, and length of anesthesia was a negative predictor. Fear and anger were also positively related to difficulty in communication. In addition, the number of communication methods was negatively associated with feelings of fear and anger. Finally, the stressful experiences associated with the endotracheal tube were positively related to feelings of anger.

Conclusions

Patients treated with mechanical ventilation experience a moderate to extreme level of psychoemotional distress because they cannot speak and communicate their needs. Nurses should be aware of the patients’ need to communicate. Decreasing stressful experiences associated with the endotracheal tube and implementing more appropriate communication methods may reduce patients’ distress.
Selective Upregulation of microRNA Expression in Peripheral Blood Leukocytes in IL-10−/− Mice Precedes Expression in the Colon
Authors: Schaefer Jeremy S. , Montufar-Solis Dina , Vigneswaran Nadarajah , Klein John R.
Published: November 2011

IL-10−/− mice, an animal model of Th1-mediated inflammatory bowel disease, were screened for the expression of 600 microRNAs (miRNAs) using colonic tissues and PBLs from animals having either mild inflammation or severe intestinal inflammation. The development of colonic inflammation in IL-10−/− mice was accompanied by upregulation in the expression of 10 miRNAs (miR-19a, miR-21, miR-31, miR-101, miR-223, miR-326, miR-142-3p, miR-142-5p, miR-146a, and miR-155). Notably, the expression of all of these miRNAs plus miR-375 was elevated in PBLs of IL-10−/− mice at a time when colonic inflammation was minimal, suggesting that changes in specific miRNAs in circulating leukocytes may be harbingers of ensuing colonic pathology. In vitro exposure of colonic intraepithelial lymphocytes to IL-10 resulted in downregulation of miR-19a, miR-21, miR-31, miR-101, miR-223, and miR-155. Interestingly, unlike IL-10−/− mice, changes in miRNAs in PBL of dextran sulfate sodium-treated mice were minimal but selectively elevated in the colon after pathology was severe. We further show that miR-223 is a negative regulator of the Roquin ubiquitin ligase, Roquin curtails IL-17A synthesis, and the 3′ untranslated region of Roquin is a target for miR-223, thus defining a molecular pathway by which IL-10 modulates IL-17–mediated inflammation. To identify additional miRNAs that may be involved in the regulation of Roquin, transcriptome analysis was done using cDNAs from HeLa cells transfected with 90 miRNA mimics. Twenty-six miRNAs were identified as potential negative regulators of Roquin, thus demonstrating functional complexity in gene expression regulation by miRNAs.
Negative Selection by IgM Superantigen Defines a B Cell Central Tolerance Compartment and Reveals Mutations Allowing Escape
Authors: Duong Bao Hoa , Ota Takayuki , Aoki-Ota Miyo , Cooper Anthony Byron , Ait-Azzouzene Djemel , Vela José Luis , Gavin Amanda Lee , Nemazee David
Published: November 2011

To analyze B lymphocyte central tolerance in a polyclonal immune system, mice were engineered to express a superantigen reactive to IgM of allotype b (IgMb). IgMb/b mice carrying superantigen were severely B cell lymphopenic, but small numbers of B cells matured. Their sera contained low levels of IgG and occasionally high levels of IgA. In bone marrow, immature B cells were normal in number, but internalized IgM and had a unique gene expression profile, compared with those expressing high levels of surface IgM, including elevated recombinase activator gene expression. A comparable B cell population was defined in wild-type bone marrows, with an abundance suggesting that at steady state ∼20% of normal developing B cells are constantly encountering autoantigens in situ. In superantigen-expressing mice, as well as in mice carrying the 3H9 anti-DNA IgH transgene, or 3H9 H along with mutation in the murine κ-deleting element RS, IgM internalization was correlated with CD19 downmodulation. CD19low bone marrow cells from 3H9;RS−/− mice were enriched in L chains that promote DNA binding. Our results suggest that central tolerance and attendant L chain receptor editing affect a large fraction of normal developing B cells. IgHa/b mice carrying the superantigen had a ∼50% loss in follicular B cell numbers, suggesting that escape from central tolerance by receptor editing from one IgH allele to another was not a major mechanism. IgMb superantigen hosts reconstituted with experimental bone marrow were demonstrated to be useful in revealing pathways involved in central tolerance.
Age-Related Changes in Bone Remodelling and Structure in Men: Histomorphometric Studies
Authors: Compston Juliet
Published: November 2011

Histomorphometric studies of the age-related changes in bone remodelling and structure in men are relatively sparse and mainly limited to the iliac crest. The available data indicate that loss of trabecular bone is predominantly due to decreased formation at the level of individual bone remodelling units and that an increase in remodelling rate does not play a major role. The main structural consequence of the changes in bone remodelling is trabecular thinning. In cortical bone, an age-related reduction in cortical width and increase in porosity have been demonstrated at several skeletal sites. However, the alterations in bone remodelling responsible for these changes remain to be established.
Association between AgNORs and Immunohistochemical Expression of ER, PR, HER2/neu, and p53 in Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Ahmed Hussain Gadelkarim , Al-Adhraei Mohammed Ali , Ashankyty Ibraheem M.
Published: November 2011

Settings. Despite the limited diagnostic utility of AgNORs (argyrophilic nucleolar organiser region-associated proteins) for individual breast lesions, AgNOR analysis bears a significant potential for characterizing cell proliferative activity of breast lesions. Methodology. The present study investigated the relationship between mean AgNORs count and immunohistochemical expression of ER, PR, HER2/neu, and p53 in breast carcinoma in serial paraffin sections from 137 breast carcinomas. Twenty control cases of benign breast lesions were included. Results. Mean AgNOR counts correlated significantly inversely with hormone estrogen receptors (ER), Progesterone receptors (PR), and p53 immunohistochemical expression, denoting values of 0.05, 0.01, and 0.001, respectively. No significant correlation was found between mean AgNOR counts and HER2/neu, . Mean AgNOR count was significantly higher in grade II tumor cells. We conclude that mean AgNOR counts correlate with ER, PR, and P53 tumor markers in breast carcinomas. Conclusion. We recommend the use of mean AgNOR count for accurate reporting of breast carcinomas, as well as prediction of ER, PR, and P53 in routine paraffin sections.
Autosomal Recessive Nonsyndromic Hearing Impairment due to a Novel Deletion in the RDX Gene
Authors: Lee Kwanghyuk , Amin ud Din Mohammad , Ansar Muhammad , Santos-Cortez Regie Lyn P. , Ahmad Wasim , Leal Suzanne M.
Published: November 2011

The RDX gene anchors cytoskeletal actin of stereocilia to hair cell transmembrane and is responsible for autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing impairment (ARNSHI) due to DFNB24. A genome scan was performed using DNA samples from a consanguineous Pakistani family with ARNSHI. A significant maximum two-point LOD score of 4.5 (θ=0) and multipoint LOD score of 5.8 were achieved at marker D11S1998 (chr11 : 117.20 Mb). The region of homozygosity is bounded by markers D11S2000 (105.06 Mb) and D11S4464 (123.13 Mb) and contains the NSHI genes TECTA and RDX. Although no potentially causal variants were identified in the TECTA gene, within the RDX gene a novel deletion c.1076_1079delTTAA (p.Ile359Lysfs*6) was identified. The RDX deletion segregates with ARNSHI within the family and was not observed in 500 control chromosomes. It is predicted to cause premature truncation of radixin at the α-helical domain and to result in nonfunctional transcripts within the cochlea. RDX isoforms which encode the coiled-coil region of the α-helical domain are deemed necessary for proper function of hair cell stereocilia.
Endothelial cell apoptosis in brown adipose tissue of rats induced by hyperinsulinaemia: the possible role of TNF-Î±
Authors: Markelic M. , Velickovic K. , Golic I. , Otasevic V. , Stancic A. , Jankovic A. , Vucetic M. , Buzadzic B. , Korac B. , Korac A.
Published: November 2011

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether hyperinsulinaemia, which frequently precedes insulin resistance syndrome (obesity, diabetes), induces apoptosis of endothelial cells (ECs) in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and causes BAT atrophy and also, to investigate the possible mechanisms underlying ECs death. In order to induce hyperinsulinaemia, adult male rats of Wistar strain were treated with high dose of insulin (4 U/kg, intraperitonealy) for one or three days. Examinations at ultrastructural level showed apoptotic changes of ECs, allowing us to point out that changes mainly but not exclusively, occur in nuclei. Besides different stages of condensation and alterations of the chromatin, nuclear fragmentation was also observed. Higher number of ECs apoptotic nuclei in the BAT of hyperinsulinaemic rats was also confirmed by propidium iodide staining. Immunohistochemical localization of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-Î±) revealed increased expression in ECs of BAT of hyperinsulinaemic animals, indicating its possible role in insulin-induced apoptotic changes. These results suggest that BAT atrophy in hyperinsulinaemia is a result of endothelial and adipocyte apoptosis combined, rather than any of functional components alone.
Die NHKA op reis na inklusiwiteit I: Die anatomie van ’n gefragmenteerde/eskatologiese ekklesiologie
Authors: Buitendag Johan , Van Wyk Tanya
Published: November 2011

The NRCA en route to inclusivity I: The anatomy of a fragmented/eschatological ecclesiology This is the first in a two-part series that aims to examine the growing pains the Netherdutch Reformed Church is experiencing in its journey towards Christian inclusivity. This first article examines the fragmentation in the Church’s understanding of ecclesiology, which becomes apparent in the debates concerning the meaning and range of inclusivity in ecclesiology. The roots of this fragmentation are examined. It is concluded that the root of the fragmentation is an eschatological understanding of the essence of the church, which is, in turn, due to a fragmented view of humanity. In order for the Church to continue its journey towards inclusivity it should revisit its understanding of humanity and theological anthropology. The second article will focus on the content and implications of a revisited theological anthroplogy.
Safety and Efficacy of Imidapril in the Treatment of Essential Hypertension
Authors: Okamura Masashi , Ogawa Susumu , Ito Sadayoshi
Published: November 2011

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are one of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors widely used for the treatment of hypertension. Recently, Blood Pressure Lowering Treatment Trialists’ Collaboration (BPLTTC) meta-analysis showed that ACEIs had the blood pressure independent beneficial effects on coronary heart events. In this review, we summarized our current knowledge about ACEIs especially imidapril and re-evaluated ACEIs among other RAS inhibitors (RASIs) because ACEIs have wide ranges of beneficial effects in addition to the ACE inhibition which other RASIs do not have such as the up-regulation of bradykinin level, substance P level, the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and stabilization of coronary plaque.
Tobacco Policy Regression in Arizona Worksites
Authors: Eisenberg Merrill , Lopez Darlene , Lee Hye-Ryeon
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To learn how worksite tobacco policies in Arizona changed between 1998 and 2001.

Design.

Telephone survey panel design.

Setting.

Arizona.

Subjects.

Private workplaces with at least five employees (N = 1008).

Measures.

Workplace policies were rated as “smoke free” (no smoking by employees in any indoor areas or in company vehicles except for designated smoking areas enclosed by physical barriers and having separate ventilation systems), “partial” policies (restrictive tobacco policies that did not meet the “smoke-free” standard), or no tobacco policy.

Analysis.

Bivariate statistical tests included χ2 and analysis of variance. Logistic regression was performed to identify the variables that best predicted the workplaces that weakened or eliminated their policies.

Results.

Tobacco policy in Arizona worksites improved overall, but 10.8% of worksites had weakened or eliminated tobacco policies present at baseline. Among worksites that were smoke free at baseline, 15.5% were no longer smoke free at follow-up.

Conclusion.

Policy regression is a disturbing finding that should be further explored. Our findings suggest that efforts to promote workplace tobacco policies should not end when policies are in place.
Effects of Environmental Changes in a Stair Climbing Intervention: Generalization to Stair Descent
Authors: Webb Oliver J. , Eves Frank F.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Visual improvements have been shown to encourage stair use in worksites independently of written prompts. This study examined whether visual modifications alone can influence behavior in a shopping mall. Climbing one flight of stairs, however, will not confer health benefits. Therefore, this study also assessed whether exposure to the intervention encouraged subsequent stair use.

Design.

Interrupted time-series design.

Settings.

Escalators flanked by a staircase on either side.

Subjects.

Ascending and descending pedestrians (N = 81,948).

Interventions.

Following baseline monitoring, a colorful design was introduced on the stair risers of one staircase (the target staircase). A health promotion message was superimposed later on top. The intervention was visible only to ascending pedestrians. Thus, any rise in descending stair use would indicate increased intention to use stairs, which endured after initial exposure to the intervention.

Measures.

Observers inconspicuously coded pedestrians' means of ascent/descent and demographic characteristics.

Results.

The design alone had no meaningful impact. Addition of the message, however, increased stair climbing at the target and nontarget staircases by 190% and 52%, respectively. The message also produced a modest increase in stair descent at the target (25%) and nontarget (9%) staircases.

Conclusions.

In public venues, a message component is critical to the success of interventions. In addition, it appears that exposure to an intervention can encourage pedestrians to use stairs on a subsequent occasion.
A Stage-Tailored Multi-Modal Intervention Increases Fruit and Vegetable Intakes of Low-Income Young Adults
Authors: Nitzke Susan , Kritsch Karen , Boeckner Linda , Greene Geoffrey , Hoerr Sharon , Horacek Tanya , Kattelmann Kendra , Lohse Barbara , Oakland Mary Jane , Phillips Beatrice , White Adrienne
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Assess effectiveness of an intervention to improve fruit and vegetable consumption in economically disadvantaged young adults.

Design.

Randomized treatment-control, pre-post design.

Setting.

Ten states.

Subjects.

Young adults (n = 2024, ages 18–24) were recruited from noncollege venues; 1255 (62%) completed assessment interviews at baseline and at 4 and 12 months.

Intervention.

Treatment participants received a series of mailed materials and two educational calls in 6 months. Controls received a mailed pamphlet.

Measures.

Assessment calls determined two measures of fruit and vegetable intakes, demographics and stage of change at baseline, 4 and 12 months, plus treatment participants' decisional balance, processes, and self-efficacy.

Analysis.

Repeated measure analysis of variance, intent-to-treat, χ2, and logistic regression.

Results.

At follow-up, participants in the experimental group had higher intakes of fruit and vegetables than controls (perceived daily intakes of 4.90 vs. 4.60 servings per day, F = 3.49, p < .05 and 4.31 vs. 3.92 servings/day via 5-A-Day Screener, F = 4.78, p < .01) and greater progression to action or maintenance stages (66% progress in fruit for intervention vs. 55% progress in fruit for controls; 47% vs. 32% progress for vegetables, p = .0080 and .0001, respectively). Lower education, non-White ethnicity, male gender, living with children, and experimental group assignment predicted attrition (X26df = 288, p < .001, Cox R2 = .132).

Conclusions.

Tailored educational messages and research-extension partnerships are advantageous for improving fruit and vegetable intakes of young adults.
Frequency distributions: from the sun to the earth
Authors: Crosby N. B.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The space environment is forever changing on all spatial and temporal scales. Energy releases are observed in numerous dynamic phenomena (e.g. solar flares, coronal mass ejections, solar energetic particle events) where measurements provide signatures of the dynamics. Parameters (e.g. peak count rate, total energy released, etc.) describing these phenomena are found to have frequency size distributions that follow power-law behavior. Natural phenomena on Earth, such as earthquakes and landslides, display similar power-law behavior. This suggests an underlying universality in nature and poses the question of whether the distribution of energy is the same for all these phenomena. Frequency distributions provide constraints for models that aim to simulate the physics and statistics observed in the individual phenomenon. The concept of self-organized criticality (SOC), also known as the "avalanche concept", was introduced by Bak et al. (1987, 1988), to characterize the behavior of dissipative systems that contain a large number of elements interacting over a short range. The systems evolve to a critical state in which a minor event starts a chain reaction that can affect any number of elements in the system. It is found that frequency distributions of the output parameters from the chain reaction taken over a period of time can be represented by power-laws. During the last decades SOC has been debated from all angles. New SOC models, as well as non-SOC models have been proposed to explain the power-law behavior that is observed. Furthermore, since Bak's pioneering work in 1987, people have searched for signatures of SOC everywhere. This paper will review how SOC behavior has become one way of interpreting the power-law behavior observed in natural occurring phenomenon in the Sun down to the Earth.
Ophthalmomyiasis Externa in a Puppy due to Cuterebra Infestation
Authors: Crumley William R. , Rankin Amy J. , Dryden Michael W.
Published: November 2011

An 8 wk old Scottish terrier was evaluated for a 2×2 cm mass located directly adjacent to the lateral canthus of the right eye. Examination revealed a well-developed Cuterebra larva at the lateral aspect of the orbital cavity, anchored at the lateral canthus. The larva was manually removed under general anesthesia, and the eyelid margin was repaired. Systemic and topical antibiotics along with systemic anti-inflammatory treatment were instituted. The lesion healed completely, revealing a normal functional right eye 10 days after removal of the Cuterebra larva. Careful manual removal of the larva is recommended along with correction of any resultant conformational defects. The remaining cavity can be left to heal; however, antibiotic therapy is recommended.
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma in a Juvenile Labrador Retriever: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Snyder Laura A. , Michael Helen
Published: November 2011

A 7 mo old Labrador retriever presented for evaluation of facial swelling associated with a 5 cm oral mass extending caudally from the upper third premolar on the left side. Cytology revealed an atypical population of round cells of undetermined origin. A diagnosis of alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) was reached via histopathology and confirmed with positive immunohistochemical staining for desmin. In humans, RMSs have a well-described round cell cytologic appearance. Few descriptions of veterinary cases of RMS exist. This report describes the cytologic appearance of alveolar RMS in a young dog and both summarizes and compares findings throughout the veterinary and human literature.
Characterization of Tribofilm from Sulfurized Mohwa Oil
Authors: Singh Arun Kumar
Published: November 2011

The reaction products of sulfurized Mohwa oil with iron powder in hydrocarbon medium at 150°C for 8 h were studied to investigate the type of lubricant films formed during their application as antiwear and extreme pressure additives. The main reaction product was isolated on the basis of its solubility in mixed solvent. Surface characterization was carried out using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and high frequency reciprocal rig (HFRR). An examination of their elemental analysis and instrumental analysis data reveals that there is reduction in the length of the alkyl chains and carbonyl ester groups with formation of inorganic iron sulfides. Polymerized product with a number of ketonic and aldehydic groups containing iron and sulfur in the polymeric films in the form of unsaturated cyclic rings was also formed. The films are organo-inorganic in nature, unlike the purely inorganic iron sulfide type. The load-carrying characteristic of this product is strongly influenced by the type of the film formed on the iron surfaces.
Double Lumen Tubes: Usage and Performance by Frequent and Infrequent Users
Authors: Jha Sachin , Ehrenfeld Jesse M.
Published: November 2011

Double lumen tubes (DLT) are commonly used to achieve lung isolation (LI). Not all anesthesiologists are frequent DLT users. Our thoracic surgical service is covered by sub-specialty anesthesiologists who are frequent DLT users. Thus, we are in a position to evaluate the performance of infrequent DLT users relative to frequent DLT users. Using statistical methods, we examined the incidence, duration and severity of hypoxia, hypercapnea and high airway pressures for patients receiving LI via DLTs placed by infrequent versus frequent users. The incidence of low SpO2, high EtCO2, or high PIP was not different between frequent and infrequent DLT users. However, when these events do occur, they are more severe (elevated EtCO2 duration, lower SpO2, higher EtCO2, higher airway pressure) among infrequent than frequent DLT users. The practical significance of these differences, which are small, is unproven. However, when episodes of hypercapnea do occur, they last much longer among infrequent than frequent DLT users.
Analysis of Facial Images across Age Progression by Humans
Authors: Zeng Jingting , Ling Haibin , Latecki Longin Jan , Fitzhugh Shanon , Guo Guodong
Published: November 2011

The appearance of human faces can undergo large variations over aging progress. Analysis of facial image taken over age progression recently attracts increasing attentions in computer-vision community. Human abilities for such analysis are, however, less studied. In this paper, we conduct a thorough study of human ability on two tasks, face verification and age estimation, for facial images taken at different ages. Detailed and rigorous experimental analysis is provided, which helps understanding roles of different factors including age group, age gap, race, and gender. In addition, our study also leads to an interesting observation: for age estimation, photos from adults are more challenging than that from young people. We expect the study to provide a reference for machine-based solutions.
Programavimas C ++
Authors: Blonskis Jonas , Bukšnaitis Vytautas , Jusas Vacius , Marcinkevičius Romas , Rubliauskas Dalius
Published: November 2011

Vadovėlis skirtas KTU studentams, klausantiems įvadinį programavimo modulį. Modulio tikslas – suteikti studentams minimalių būtinų žinių bei įgūdžių, kurie padėtų sėkmingai įsisavinti objektinio programavimo modulį. 2007 m. Lietuvos Respublikos švietimo ir mokslo ministerijos paskirta trečioji premija.
Cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis and ovarian cystadenoma associated with deficiency of fumerate hydratase
Authors: Hüller Cornelia , Grunow Norbert , Nadler Torsten , Bär Michael
Published: November 2011

We report on an exceedingly rare case of cutaneous and uterine leiomyomatosis in a 58-year-old Caucasian woman associated with ovarian cystadenoma and complete deletion of the fumarate hydratase gene. All patients and their family members with verified mutation have to be regularly screened for associated neoplasms, in particular papillary renal cell carcinoma (HLRCC, hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer).