bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Three‐Dimensional Transthoracic Echocardiography to Evaluate Right Ventricular Volumes in Children and Comparison to Left Ventricular Values
Authors: Séguéla Pierre‐Emmanuel , Hascoët Sébastien , Brierre Gilles , Bongard Vanina , Acar Philippe
Published: December 2011

Background: Three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) allows accurate estimation of left ventricular (LV) volumes and function in children. Because of the peculiar morphology of the right ventricle (RV), RV volumes and function assessment remain challenging. 3D software adapted for RV morphology is a promising noninvasive method. Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of 3D RV analysis in a normal pediatric population and to compare 3D RV to 3D LV measurements. Patients and methods: 3D transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 50 patients (mean age 9.5 years ± 5.1) with normal cardiac anatomy and function. Measurements were performed with the X3‐1 or the X7‐2 matrix probe (iE33, Philips Medical Systems, Andover, MA, USA). Ventricular volumes were analyzed with dedicated analysis software (TomTec Imaging Systems, Munich, Germany). Results: Measurements were possible in 100% of LVs and 94% of RVs. The stroke volumes of the two ventricles correlated well (r = 0.81 [95% CI, 0.68–0.89], P < 0.0001) with a mean difference of 3.6 mL (±9.2). Compared to the LV, the RV had higher mean end‐diastolic volume (53 mL [±29] versus 46 mL [±46], P = 0.020) and end‐systolic volume (29 mL [±17] versus 17 mL [±12], P < 0.0001) but lower mean ejection fraction (49%[±8] versus 67%[±10], P < 0.0001). Conclusion: 3DE using dedicated software is a feasible and reproducible method for RV volume quantification in children with normal hearts. Further studies are needed to validate the accuracy of the measurements. (Echocardiography 2012;29:492‐501)
Farmers Markets in the Post‐Industrial City
Authors: BUBINAS KATHLEEN
Published: December 2011

A new politics of consumption is evident in the economic behavior of educated, middle‐class baby‐boomer women no longer willing to accept a food culture prescribed for them by the global food establishment. It is proposed that the farmers market represents a deliberate class‐based response to wrestle back control of the local through supporting farmers and post‐industrial downtown storeowners. These “femivores” of the marketplace are utilizing their consumer power to participate in a new, dynamic form of community‐building that re‐embeds the market within local narratives of social sustainability and resource management. Further, I propose that it is through the market exchange that citizens of all classes become visible and the possibility for a class consciousness tied to economic behavior arises. Moreover, the process of restructuring occurring in Midwestern post‐industrial cities may be just the incubator needed to nurture these place‐based socioeconomic behaviors. [Farmers market, informal economy, post‐industrial city, consumer behavior, middle class]
Real‐time multiplex PCR for direct detection of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in clinical samples enriched by broth culture
Authors: SÖDERQUIST BO , NEANDER MARITA , DIENUS OLAF , ZIMMERMANN JOHANNA , BERGLUND CAROLINA , MATUSSEK ANDREAS , MÖLLING PAULA
Published: December 2011

Söderquist B, Neander M, Dienus O, Zimmermann J, Berglund C, Matussek A, Mölling P. Real‐time multiplex PCR for direct detection of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in clinical samples enriched by broth culture. APMIS 2012; 120: 427–32.

A real‐time multiplex PCR using the orfX and staphylococcal cassette chromosome (SCC) mec of Staphylococcus aureus was developed. The aim was to achieve a rapid and sensitive high‐throughput method for direct detection of heterogeneous methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in clinical samples, present in a low‐endemic population, such as in Sweden. Consecutive broth enriched pooled clinical screening samples (nares, throat and/or perineum/groin) (n = 541 pools), broth enriched clinical samples showing growth of methicillin‐sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) (n = 95 pools), clinical MRSA isolates (n = 173), MRSA reference strains (n = 43) and various coagulase‐negative staphylococcal isolates (n = 33) were analyzed. The multiplex PCR detected all heterogeneous MRSA strains (n = 173) obtained in our area as well as all pooled consecutive broth enriched clinical samples with MRSA, i. e. 36 of 541 pools. None of the CoNS were positive. However, 18 out of 541 pools (3.3%) were positive in the multiplex PCR but no growth of MRSA could be detected by subculture and were regarded as false positive. Furthermore, the assay is rapid and reliable negative results can be delivered to the clinician within 18 h that will facilitate the infection control management of patients and hospital staff.
Oestrogen receptor β in NSCLC – prevalence, proliferative influence, prognostic impact and smoking
Authors: KARLSSON CHRISTINA , HELENIUS GISELA , FERNANDES OSWALDO , KARLSSON MATS G
Published: December 2011

Karlsson C, Helenius G, Fernandes O, Karlsson MG. Estrogen receptor β in NSCLC – prevalence, proliferative influence, prognostic impact and smoking. APMIS 2012; 120: 451–8.

In non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) there are gender differences. The female gender is associated with more adenocarcinomas (ADCA), among both smokers and non‐smokers compared to men. Women with NSCLC have a better prognosis compared to men, regardless of other factors. A possible role for oestrogen receptor (ER) signalling has been proposed. The role for ERβ in NSCLC is still not clear, especially concerning the impact of smoking. In a material of NSCLC (n = 262), ERβ and cyclins A1 and A2 were studied by immunohistochemistry on formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded tissue. In 137 of those cases, frozen material was available, on which expression analysis of ESR2 (ERβ) and cyclin A1 were performed. Data were correlated to histology, gender, smoking habits, stage and clinical outcome. ERβ was expressed in 86% of the cases. ERβ was most frequently expressed in Stage I ADCAs, especially in male subjects. A correlation between ERβ expression and cyclins was observed in ADCA, also with a male predominance. ERβ transcripts had a positive prognostic impact in ADCA. ERβ transcripts were increased in NSCLC among smokers compared to non‐smokers. In conclusion, our data support a role for ERβ in lung ADCAs, proposing a role for ERβ in lungcarcinogenesis, especially among smokers.
Sinus floor elevation using osteotome technique without grafting materials: a 2‐year retrospective study
Authors: He Longlong , Chang Xiaofeng , Liu Yanpu
Published: December 2011

Objective

The study aimed to assess the clinical results after osteotome technique to lift sinus floor, without graft materials in the residual bone height (RBH), below 8 mm.

Material and methods

Twenty‐two patients aged from 19 to 70 years old in need of maxillary sinus floor augmentation were enrolled in this study. Preoperative and postoperative cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) were taken to guide the surgery. Twenty‐seven implants were inserted and followed clinically, another CBCT exam was taken at 6 months postoperatively. The diameter of the implants was 4.7 mm (SD 0.4 mm), the length was 10 mm (SD 1.0 mm). The average residual bone height was 6.7 mm (SD 1.2 mm).

Results

No implants were lost after the surgery and the 2 years follow‐up. There was no obvious marginal bone loss during the 6 months follow‐up verified by CBCT. The mean bone gain at the implant sites was 2.5 mm (SD 1.5 mm).

Conclusion

The study verified the good and stable clinical result of the OSFE technique without using bone grafting materials when the RBH was only 4.1–8 mm.
Clinical evaluation of a ridge augmentation procedure for the severely resorbed alveolar socket: multicenter randomized controlled trial, preliminary results
Authors: Sisti Angelo , Canullo Luigi , Mottola Maria Pia , Covani Ugo , Barone Antonio , Botticelli Daniele
Published: December 2011

Objective

To radiographically analyze extraction sites left untreated or treated using a socket preservation technique.

Materials and methods

A total of 20 patients scheduled for single extraction in the maxilla from second to second premolar were enrolled in this study. All sites showed a bone defect >5 mm at the buccal wall and no soft tissue recession. At baseline (T0), tooth extraction was performed; subsequently, sites were randomly allocated to the control (CG: left to heal without grafting) or test group (TG: grafted using hydroxyapatite). Two months later (T1), implants were inserted and eventual GBR procedure was performed. Three months later, the definitive crown was placed. Follow up was 24 months (T2). A cone‐beam computed tomographic examination (CT) was performed at each time point. At each radiographic analysis, horizontal and vertical widths of the sockets were measured. Comparisons between CG and TG were performed by a Wilcoxon non‐parametric test.

Results

At the end of the study, no patient dropped out and all implants inserted (10 in each group) resulted integrated. GBR procedures were performed at T1 only in the CG. In the CG, the mean value of the horizontal width in the coronal CT slices was 0.98 mm (±0.37), 7.70 mm (±0.92), 7.45 mm (±0.69) at T0, T1 (after bone regeneration) and T2, respectively. In the TG, the mean value of the horizontal width in the coronal CT slices was 0.96 mm (±0.41), 8.97 mm (±1.91), 9.48 mm (±1.56); at T2, it was 9.52 mm (±1.87) at T0 (pre‐ and post‐socket preservation) T1 and T2, respectively. At each follow up, the mean horizontal bone width in TG was statistically significantly greater than in the control group (P < 0.05). At T0, mean value of the vertical bone defect length (BDL) was 6.93 mm for TG, 6.5 mm for CG. At T1 and T2, mean BDL value was 0 for both groups. Statistically significant difference was not found between TC and CG at any time point (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This randomized controlled trial suggested that in sites with buccal bone defects >5 mm, the application of HA can minimize alveolar crest resorption following tooth extraction. Furthermore, compared with traditional regenerative procedure carried out following socket healing, this preservation technique seems to result in better horizontal regeneration of the buccal bone wall.
Assessment of dental trauma among cerebral palsy individuals in Udaipur city
Authors: Jalihal Sagar , Nagarajappa Ramesh , Sharda Archana , Asawa Kailash , Tak Mridula
Published: December 2011

Abstract –  Objective:  (i) To assess the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries (TDI) in individuals with cerebral palsy and its possible relationship with type of palsy at Udaipur city, Rajasthan, India. (ii) To assess the prevalence of temporomandibular joint symptoms in cerebral palsy individuals.

Materials and methods:  The total sample comprised of 281 cerebral palsy individuals in the age group of 10–35 years. Clinical examination for dental trauma was performed on the basis of Andreasen & Andreasen classification (1994). Chi‐square test, multiple logistic and stepwise linear regression analyses were carried out to find out the relationship between cerebral palsy individuals with different independent variables.

Results:  Findings of the study indicated that there was highest prevalence of TDI in cerebral palsy patients with hemiplegia (40.6%) (P = 0.00). Stepwise and multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the best predictors for dental traumatic injuries was overjet and type of cerebral palsy.

Conclusion:  It was concluded that hemiplegic cerebral palsy patients were most prone to TDI.
Mosaic SCN1A mutations in familial partial epilepsy with antecedent febrile seizures
Authors: Shi Y.‐W. , Yu M.‐J. , Long Y.‐S. , Qin B. , He N. , Meng H. , Liu X.‐R. , Deng W.‐Y. , Gao M.‐M. , Yi Y.‐H. , Li B.‐M. , Liao W.‐P.
Published: December 2011

SCN1A is the most relevant epilepsy gene. Mutations of SCN1A generate phenotypes ranging from the extremely severe form of Dravet syndrome (DS) to a mild form of generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+). Mosaic SCN1A mutations have been identified in rare familial DS. It is suspected that mosaic mutations of SCN1A may cause other types of familial epilepsies with febrile seizures (FS), which are more common clinically. Thus, we screened SCN1A mutations in 13 families with partial epilepsy with antecedent febrile seizures (PEFS+) using denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography and sequencing. The level of mosaicism was further quantified by pyrosequencing. Two missense SCN1A mutations with mosaic origin were identified in two unrelated families, accounting for 15.4% (2/13) of the PEFS+ families tested. One of the mosaic carriers with ∼25.0% mutation of c.5768A>G/p.Q1923R had experienced simple FS; another with ∼12.5% mutation of c.4847T>C/p.I1616T was asymptomatic. Their heterozygous children had PEFS+. Recurrent transmission occurred in both families, as noted in most of the families with germline mosaicism reported previously. The two mosaic mutations identified in this study are less destructive missense, compared with the more destructive truncating and splice‐site mutations identified in the majority of previous studies. This is the first report of mosaic SCN1A mutations in families with probands that do not exhibit DS, but manifest only a milder phenotype. Therefore, such families with mild cases should be approached with caution in genetic counseling and the possibility of mosaicism origin associated with high recurrence risk should be excluded.
Differences in adipose tissue inflammation and oxidative status in C57BL/6 and ApoE−/− mice fed high fat diet
Authors: PEREIRA Solange S. , TEIXEIRA Lílian G. , AGUILAR Edenil C. , MATOSO Rafael O. , SOARES Fabíola L. P. , FERREIRA Adaliene V. M. , ALVAREZ‐LEITE Jacqueline I.
Published: December 2011

Apolipoprotein E deficient (Apo E−/−) mice are more resistant to the development of obesity compared to C57BL/6 wild type mice. They also hold a high basal oxidative status due to the loss of antioxidant action of apolipoprotein E. Since obesity is also an inducer of inflammation, we studied the effect of high‐fat diet on obesity and oxidative stress in C57BL/6 and Apo E−/− mice for 9 weeks. The results confirmed that Apo E−/− mice fed high‐fat diet are more resistant to the increase of both body weight and adiposity compared to C57BL/6 mice. Despite this, Apo E−/− mice presented a higher basal oxidative stress that was enhanced by high‐fat diet. Macrophage infiltration, macrophage forming crown‐like structures and proinflammatory adipokines (interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha) were all higher in adipose tissue from Apo E−/− compared to C57BL/6 mice, regardless of diet type. In conclusion, although Apo E−/− mice are more resistant to becoming obese, they develop more severe adipose tissue inflammation companied by its consequences.
Effects of days on feed, roughage sources and inclusion levels of grain in concentrate on finishing performance and carcass characteristics in cull beef cows
Authors: SUGIMOTO Masahito , SAITO Waka , OOI Motoki , OIKAWA Manabu
Published: December 2011

An experiment was conducted with 16 Japanese Black cows to determine the effects of different days on feed (89, 208, 271 and 341 days), inclusion levels of grain in concentrate (60% vs. 40%; dry matter (DM) basis) and roughage sources (hay vs. rice straw) on finishing performance. Additional four cows were slaughtered at 0 days on feed to obtain non‐fed carcass data. Maximum carcass weights were observed in cows fed for 271 days; an increase in carcass weight of only 14 kg was shown from 208 days to 271 days. The marbling score increased (P < 0.05) with days on feed. The percentage of fat in the subprimal rib linearly increased (P < 0.05) with days on feed. The percentage of lean meat was higher (P < 0.05) for cows fed rice straw than for cows fed hay as a roughage source. Increasing the days on feed decreased (P < 0.05) the yellowness of the fat. The effects of the inclusion levels of grain in concentrate on the finishing performance of cows were lower than the other two factors. In conclusion, feeding improves carcass values, but feeding over 208 days is an inefficient system of production in cows.
Changes in collagen fiber content and hepatic stellate cell distribution in the liver of chick embryos and growing chickens
Authors: NISHIMURA Shotaro , TESHIMA Akifumi , CHOWDHURY Vishwajit Sur , TABATA Shoji
Published: December 2011

The content of collagen and the distribution of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were studied to elucidate the occurrence of sex‐dependent variations in the liver of developing embryos and growing chickens. Chick embryos from embryonic days (e) 12 to e20 and chicks at 1, 4 and 8 weeks were analyzed. Liver tissue was processed using NaOH maceration and freeze‐dried to obtain the collagen fiber specimens. HSCs were identified by double fluorescent immunohistochemistry for desmin and vimentin. There were no sex‐dependent variations in the percentage of collagen fiber per liver weight and HSC area during embryonic stages. However, the content of collagen fiber increased during embryonic development in both sexes. On the other hand, the area of HSCs significantly increased in growing males but did not show any change in females. Importantly, sex differences were observed in both collagen fiber content and HSC area in the liver at 8 weeks. These results indicate that the occurrence of collagen content variations takes place at 8 weeks in chicken liver, suggesting that a sex‐dependent hormone may play an important role on the collagen production of HSCs in the growing chicken liver.
Severe hypothermia in myxoedema coma: A rewarming by extracorporeal circulation
Authors: Kogan Alexander , Kassif Yigal , Shadel Mordechay , Shwarz Yaron , Lavee Jacob , Or Jacob , Raanani Ehud
Published: December 2011

Myxoedema coma is the most lethal manifestation of hypothyroidism. It represents a true medical emergency, especially in the case of cardiovascular instability. Extracorporeal circulation is usually used for rewarming and for providing cardiac support in patients with severe hypothermia and, in addition, cardiovascular instability. We report the case of an 84‐year‐old woman who presented to the ED with accidental hypothermia associated with myxoedema that was successfully managed by veno‐arterial extracorporeal blood rewarming. This case suggests that veno‐arterial extracorporeal rewarming appears to achieve a rapid and consistent rewarming rate and is less invasive and more readily available than cardiopulmonary bypass.
Decontamination and enhanced elimination in sustained‐release potassium chloride poisoning*
Authors: Gunja Naren
Published: December 2011

Potassium chloride poisoning can be potentially life‐threatening, particularly in massive ingestions of sustained‐release preparations. Profound hyperkalaemia, developing over several hours, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and death. This case series reports three episodes of sustained‐release potassium chloride poisoning in two individuals requiring whole bowel irrigation or haemodialysis. The first two episodes, in the same patient, illustrate the contrast between the successful use of decontamination versus the need for haemodialysis. The second case, in a child, illustrates the need for tertiary level paediatric expertise in managing this type of poisoning. Whole bowel irrigation with polyethylene glycol is a resource‐intensive procedure most beneficial when large numbers of radio‐opaque tablets are seen in the stomach. In cases where most of the tablet matter has already been absorbed, extracorporeal methods of rapidly reducing the total body burden of potassium, such as haemodialysis, might be life‐saving.
Origins of Groundwater Inferred from Isotopic Patterns of the Badain Jaran Desert, Northwestern China
Authors: Zhao Liangju , Xiao Honglang , Dong Zhibao , Xiao Shengchun , Zhou Maoxian , Cheng Guodong , Yin Li , Yin Zhenliang
Published: December 2011

There are many viewpoints about the sources of groundwater in the Badain Jaran Desert (BJD), such as precipitation and snowmelt from the Qilian Mountains (the upper reaches [UR] of the Heihe River Basin [HRB]) and precipitation from the BJD and the Yabulai Mountains. To understand the source of the groundwater of the BJD and their possible associations with nearby bodies of water, we analyzed variations of stable isotope ratios (δD and δ18O) and the deuterium excess (d‐excess) of groundwater and precipitation in the BJD, of groundwater, precipitation, river and spring water in the UR, and of groundwater and river water in the middle and lower reaches (MR and LR) of the HRB. In addition, the climatic condition under which the groundwater was formed in the BJD was also discussed. We found obvious differences in δD, δ18O, and d‐excess among groundwater in the BJD, nearby water bodies and the HRB. The groundwater δD‐δ18O equation for the BJD was δD = 4.509δ18O‐30.620, with a slope and intercept similar to that of nearby areas (4.856 and −29.574), indicating a strong evaporation effect in the BJD and its surrounding areas. The equation's slope of the BJD was significantly lower than those of HRB groundwater (6.634), HRB river water (6.202), precipitation in the BJD and Youqi (7.841), and the UR of the HRB (7.839). The d‐excess (−17.5‰) of the BJD was significantly lower than those of nearby groundwater (−7.4‰), HRB groundwater (12.1‰), precipitation in the BJD (5.7‰) and in the UR of the HRB (15.2‰), and HRB river water (14.4‰). The spatial patterns of δ18O and d‐excess values in the BJD suggest mixing and exchange of groundwater between the BJD and neighboring regions, but no hydraulic relationship between the BJD groundwater and water from more distant regions except Outer Mongolia, which is north of the BJD. Moreover, we conclude that there is little precipitation recharge to groundwater because of the obvious d‐excess difference between groundwater and local precipitation, low precipitation, and high evaporation rates. The abnormally negative d‐excess values in groundwater of the BJD indicate that this water was formed in the past under higher relative humidity and lower temperatures than modern values.
Knowledge of Stroke Risk Factors and Warning Signs in Ireland: Development and Application of the Stroke Awareness Questionnaire (SAQ)
Authors: Hickey Anne , Holly Deirdre , McGee Hannah , Conroy Ronan , Shelley Emer
Published: December 2011

Background

Inability to recognize stroke warning signs and delay in seeking medical attention for recognized symptoms contribute to treatment delay, thus limiting the potential for intervention and impacting negatively on potential stroke outcome.

Aim

To examine knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs in the adult population in Ireland.

Methods

In 2009, 1000 members of the general public were interviewed by telephone using quota-based population sampling of adults (≥18 years). Information was gathered using the Stroke Awareness Questionnaire (SAQ).

Results

71% of participants could correctly list two or more risk factors for stroke, typically generic lifestyle risk factors. Two-thirds could not identify two warning signs for stroke. While 31% could identify two or more stroke warning signs, there was no consistency in warning signs identified. Less than 50% stated they would call an ambulance if having a stroke. Overall, there were significant gaps in knowledge, with poorest levels evident in those aged ≥65 years.

Conclusions

Survey findings provide first evidence on levels of knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs in the Irish adult population. Awareness of stroke warning signs was poor, as was awareness of the need to call emergency services and the potential for acute stroke intervention. These factors contribute to delay in seeking medical attention following stroke, with resulting implications for stroke outcome.
SPREAD-STACI Study: A Protocol for a Randomized Multicenter Clinical Trial Comparing Urgent with Delayed Endarterectomy in Symptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Lanza Gaetano , Ricci Stefano , Speziale Francesco , Toni Danilo , Sbarigia Enrico , Setacci Carlo , Pratesi Carlo , Somalvico Francesco , Zaninelli Augusto , Gensini Gian Franco
Published: December 2011

Rationale

In patients with >50% carotid artery stenosis (as measured by North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial (NASCET) criteria) suffering a transient ischemic attack or a minor ipsilateral stroke, carotid endarterectomy exerts maximum benefits, when performed within the first 15 days from the initial ischemic symptom. It is also known that the probability of a major stroke spikes within the first few days after a transient ischemic attack/minor stroke and then flattens out in the following days and weeks. It could be hypothesized that urgent carotid endarterectomy has greater benefit than delayed procedure.

Aims

Demonstrate that urgent carotid endarterectomy is more effective than delayed interventions.

Design

Centers employing neurolgist/stroke physicians and vascular surgeons will enroll TIA or minor stroke patients with >50 % carotid artery stenosis (Nascet criteria), randomized in two groups: urgent carotid endarterectomy (within 48 hours) and delayed carotid endarterectomy (operated between 48 hours and 15 days after onset of symptoms) Risk factors will be evaluated at enrollment. TIA will be classified by ABCD2 scoring system, and minor stroke by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores. The study will last 90 days per patient, starting from their initial symptom, and the follow-up will be performed by an indipendent neurologist. A total of 456 patients (228 / group) is needed to observe an absolute difference of 10% between groups.

Outcomes

Primary end-point is reduction in all types of stroke, AMI or death in urgent endarterectomy groupo compared to delayed ones. Secondary end-points are: Reduction of ipsilateral ischemic stroke in group 1 with respect to Group 2 Identification of predictive risk factors and Confirmation of no different rate for hemorragic/ischemiccomplications between groups.
The SWIFT Cast Trial Protocol: A Randomized Controlled Evaluation of the Efficacy of an Ankle–Foot Cast on Walking Recovery Early after Stroke and the Neural–Biomechanical Correlates of Response
Authors: Pomeroy Valerie M. , Rowe Phillip , Baron Jean-Claude , Clark Allan , Sealy Richard , Ugbolue Ukadike C. , Kerr Ander ,   SWIFT Cast Investigators
Published: December 2011

Rationale

An ankle–foot cast may enable people to repeatedly practice walking with a more normal movement pattern early after stroke.

Aims

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of using an ankle–foot cast [soft scotch ankle-foot (SWIFT) Cast] to enhance walking recovery and to find whether site of stroke lesion and/or baseline biomechanical characteristics predict response to a SWIFT Cast.

Design

Randomized, controlled, observer-blind trial.

Study

Participants ( n = 120), 3–42 days after stroke with walking difficulty. All will receive conventional physical therapy. Those allocated to the experimental group will also receive a SWIFT Cast for up to six-weeks. During therapy sessions, the SWIFT Cast will be worn for retraining of walking as clinically appropriate. Outside therapy sessions, participants will initially wear the SWIFT Cast for the whole of their waking day, and this will be adjusted as clinically appropriate.

Outcomes

Measures will be undertaken before randomization, six-weeks thereafter and six-months after stroke. Primary outcome will be walking speed. Secondary outcomes will include the Functional Ambulation Category and efficiency of gait (e.g. step-time symmetry). Structural brain imaging using magnetic resonance imaging (standard fluid attenuated inversion recovery and T1-weighted high-resolution ‘volume’ spoiled gradient) will be undertaken at baseline. The clinical efficacy analysis will use analysis of covariance. The relationship between clinical response to therapy and biomechanical data will use correlation and multivariate regression techniques as required. For neuroimaging data, the relationship to clinical response to therapy will be computed using voxel-based lesion-symptom mapping. An interaction test across groups will identify which voxels are associated with different mean levels of treatment efficacy.
Association of Laterality and Size of Perfusion Lesions on Neurological Deficit in Acute Supratentorial Stroke
Authors: Lee Meng , Saver Jeffrey L. , Alger Jeffry R. , Hao Qing , Salamon Noriko , Starkman Sidney , Ali Latisha K. , Ovbiagele Bruce , Kim Doojin , Villablanca J Pablo , Froehler Michael T. , Tenser Matthew S. , Liebeskind David S.
Published: December 2011

Background

The influence of lesion size and laterality on each component of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale has not been delineated. The objective of this study was to use perfusion-weighted imaging to characterize the association of ischaemic volume and laterality on each component item and the total score of the <National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale.

Methods

We analysed consecutive right-handed patients with first-ever supratentorial acute ischaemic strokes who underwent acute perfusion-weighted imaging at a single centre. Perfusion deficits were defined as mean transit time > 10 s. Ordinal regression was used to clarify the relationship between ischaemic volume, laterality, and <National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores.

Results

Among 111 patients, 58 were left-hemisphere stroke, and 53 right-hemisphere stroke. Median ischaemic volume was 53 ml in left-hand stroke and 65 ml in right-hand stroke and median total National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale was 10 in left-hand stroke and eight in right-hand stroke. For individual National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale items, ischaemic volume correlated most closely with commands and visual field and most weakly with ataxia and neglect. Left-hand stroke predicted higher scores of total National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale items of questions, commands, right limb weakness, and language. Right-hand stroke predicted higher scores of left limb weakness and extinction.

Conclusions

Larger perfusion defects contribute to higher scores on the total and most individual items of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale. However, lesion laterality contributes substantially to half the item scores, with greater association of left than right-brain side. These findings indicate that imaging-deficit correlations will be improved by designating lesions into an atlas, taking into account side in addition to size.
Impact of the US Economic Crisis on East Asian Economies: Production Networks and Triangular Trade through Chinese Mainland
Authors: Kuroiwa Ikuo , Kuwamori Hiroshi
Published: December 2011

This paper investigates the impact of the 2008 economic crisis on industries in East Asia. It attempts to identify the transmission mechanism and the magnitude of the impact of the crisis on industries in East Asia using the updated Asian international input–output table for 2008. The analyses reveal that the crisis significantly affected industrial output of the nine East Asian economies included in the present study. The economies that are deeply involved in production networks were affected most seriously. Our analyses also show that the impact was transmitted to East Asian industries through triangular trade, in which Chinese mainland imports parts and components from neighboring East Asian economies and then exports final products to the US and EU markets. Although such intricate production networks have improved the competitiveness of East Asian economies, they have also increased vulnerability to external shocks.
Rural–urban Migration and Dynamics of Income Distribution in China: A Non–parametric Approach
Authors: Liu Yong , Zou Wei
Published: December 2011

Extending the income dynamics approach in Quah (2003), the present paper studies the enlarging income inequality in China over the past three decades from the viewpoint of rural–urban migration and economic transition. We establish non‐parametric estimations of rural and urban income distribution functions in China, and aggregate a population‐weighted, nationwide income distribution function taking into account rural–urban differences in technological progress and price indexes. We calculate 12 inequality indexes through non‐parametric estimation to overcome the biases in existing parametric estimation and, therefore, provide more accurate measurement of income inequality. Policy implications have been drawn based on our research.
New Insights on US Aggregate and State Level Trade with the China Region
Authors: Co Catherine Y.
Published: December 2011

Aggregate trade data with breakdown into related and non‐related party components show that US multinational enterprises use different trading strategies in the China region relative to other countries. US trade with the China region in 2002–2007 is characterized by arm's‐length transactions. State‐level trade data show great variability in state engagement with the region through trade: exports to the region range from 1 to 28 percent of state exports. In addition, compared to exports to other countries, exports to the region are highly concentrated. At the extreme, for some states, 96–98 percent of exports to the region are computer and electronic products. Finally, gravity regressions show that state exports to Hong Kong are positively associated with the relative size of the Hong Kong‐born population in the states. There is no evidence that stricter labor regimes lead to lower state exports.
The Effects of Large‐Scale Economic Change and Policies on Children’s Developmental Contexts and Developmental Outcomes
Authors: Weiland Christina , Yoshikawa Hirokazu
Published: December 2011

Abstract— In the current era of rapid economic change in societies worldwide, it is vital to examine how large‐scale societal changes might affect children’s development. This article summarizes existing evidence on 3 types of large‐scale economic change and policies that theory and empirical evidence suggest affect children’s development: economic growth and downturns, changes in demand for worker skills, and employment policies and regulations. It also summarizes evidence regarding the community‐ and family‐level mechanisms through which these effects may be conveyed, focusing where possible on empirical studies that can identify causality. It concludes with recommendations for future research.
Development of “Agentic” Regulation in Cultural Context: The Role of Self and World Views
Authors: Trommsdorff Gisela
Published: December 2011

Abstract— This article explores differences in the development of intentional self‐regulation in children from European American and Asian communities and examines the ways in which the socialization and development of “agentic” regulation follow specific goals that are in line with the predominant cultural model of agency and related self and world views. In particular, it considers whether cultural differences in self‐regulation in these populations are related to the target of agency (one’s self or external world) and to the view of the self as malleable (to personal effort and social influence). An overview of some basic beliefs in different Asian communities is provided, followed by empirical studies on socialization and the development of self‐regulation and emotion regulation. It is argued that a binary distinction between independence and interdependence is not sufficient and does not take into account intracultural differences in cultural models of agency in Asian communities. Empirical studies show that culture‐specific views on the self and the world influence respective socialization conditions and the development of agentic regulation.
New erythrocyte and reticulocyte parameters on CELL‐DYN Sapphire: analytical and preanalytical aspects
Authors: ERMENS A. A. M. , HOFFMANN J. J. M. L. , KROCKENBERGER M. , Van WIJK E. M.
Published: December 2011

Introduction:  Extended RBC and reticulocyte parameters are useful in diagnosing functional iron deficiency and various other clinical conditions. The newest software of the CELL‐DYN Sapphire measures extended RBC and reticulocyte parameters. The aims of the present communication were to assess the analytical aspects of these parameters compared with the Siemens Advia 120 analyzer, to study the effect of sample aging and to briefly explore their clinical usefulness in patients with anemia.

Methods:  Blood samples were obtained from the routine workload of two hospital laboratories and were run on Siemens Advia and Abbott CELL‐DYN Sapphire analyzers in parallel. Data analysis was performed using standard statistics.

Results:  In total, 1416 patient samples were analyzed. There was close correlation in microcytic and macrocytic RBC (r2 > 0.97) with small bias. The hypo‐ and hyperchromic RBC showed reasonable correlations, Advia 120 giving higher values. Reticulocyte MCV showed acceptable agreement, with significant proportional bias (Advia 8–9% higher). CELL‐DYN Sapphire MCHr correlated rather well with Advia CHr (r2 > 0.91) with significant absolute bias. Remarkably, the correlation data differed significantly between the two laboratories. It was found that aging of EDTA samples had significant effect on most of the RBC parameters.

Conclusions:  The new RBC parameters of CELL‐DYN Sapphire generally correlated well with those of Advia 120, although significant systematic differences were present, particularly in reticulocyte MCH and MCV. These differences necessitate instrument‐specific reference ranges and clinical decision values. To minimize preanalytical effects, these parameters should be measured in fresh blood samples.
Coping with China in Hard Times: Taiwan in Global and Domestic Aspects*
Authors: Leng Tse‐Kang
Published: December 2011

This paper argues that in the post‐democratization era, the Taiwanese state devotes itself to creating a comprehensive division of labor with China in favor of Taiwan. Both the Democratic Progressive Party and Kuomintang (the Chinese Nationalist Party) administrations have endeavored to re‐intervene in fields like research and development to strengthen and upgrade industrial competitiveness. The Ma administration tries to adopt a policy of globalization with comprehensive engagements with China. However, political costs come with the efforts in deepening and institutionalizing such a unique relationship. On the domestic front, the redistribution effect of the trade pact buttresses opposition forces to request a halt to further integration. To cope with the rise of China in hard times, the Taiwanese state chooses to adopt two‐track policies to re‐intervene into economic spheres of influence while searching for political compromise with China. From this aspect, the power of the Taiwanese state is not shrinking in the era of globalization. It requires more subtle ways to enhance capacities to co‐exist with social forces on domestic soil, and promote trust with major international players in the region. The state power is thus transformed and readjusted in a more complicated manner.
The Evolution of “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics”: Its Elliptical Structure of Socialist Principles and China's Realities*
Authors: Choi Yeonsik
Published: December 2011

Since the early 20th century, China has sought an avenue for the Sinification of Marxism. China has attempted to integrate the socialist principles with China's concrete realities under the condition of new historical contexts. “Socialism with Chinese characteristics” is a product of those efforts. The fundamental nature of “socialism with Chinese characteristics” though, is at the center of controversy because its conceptual definition is unclear and incoherent. Indeed, socialism with Chinese characteristics has unceasingly evolved along with changes in historical settings, showing diverse patterns of practice. Accordingly, this paper sees “socialism with Chinese characteristics” as a work in progress that is still evolving along with the interaction between the socialist principles (ideology) and Chinese characteristics (reality). Ideally the ultimate goal of “socialism with Chinese characteristics” is to achieve national salvation by making China strong and rich. However, this desire for a strong China has been revealed in a range of volatile actions and reactions swinging between socialist principles and China's realities.

This paper sheds light on the development of Chinese socialism by examining three historical periods: the integration of Marxism and China's realities in the Mao era; the road of reform and socialist modernization in the post‐Mao era; and the new road to socialist spiritual civilization in the 1990s. The journey for a new Chinese civilization started with complete denial about its traditional culture. However, what we are seeing today is China's deliberate paying attention to the traditional culture. Nonetheless, socialism with Chinese characteristics that highlights the positive influence of cultural factors is still equivocal as to whether China will maintain its current pattern of development.
Antinociceptive activity of the monoterpene α-phellandrene in rodents: possible mechanisms of action
Authors: Lima David F , Brandão Marcela S , Moura Joelma B , Leitão Joseana M R S , Carvalho Fernando A A , Miúra Leiz M C V , Leite José R S A , Sousa Damião P , Almeida Fernanda R C
Published: December 2011

Objectives

The aim of this work was to investigate the antinociceptive property of α-phellandrene (α-PHE) in experimental nociception models and possible mechanisms involved.

Methods

Mass spectrometry was used to evaluate the purity and molecular mass of α-PHE. Macrophages from mice peritoneal cavity were used in an MTT test. Rodents were used in tests of chemical and mechanical nociception. In the study of the mechanisms, the animals were treated with pharmacological tools and then submitted to the glutamate test.

Key findings

α-PHE purity was 98.2% and molecular mass 136.1 Da. α-PHE did not show cytotoxicity. In the writhing and capsaicin tests, α-PHE promoted the antinociceptive effect in all evaluated doses (minimum dose 3.125 mg/kg). In the formalin test, α-PHE (50 mg/kg) was effective in inhibiting both phases. In the glutamate test, the monoterpene (12.5 mg/kg) decreased the nociceptive response. In carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia, α-PHE (50 mg/kg) decreased the hypernociception index. In the study of the mechanisms involved, pretreatment with naloxone reversed the α-PHE antinociceptive effect, the same occurred with glibenclamide, l-arginine, atropine and yohimbine. α-PHE did not show muscle relaxant activity or central depressant effects in open field and rota rod tests.

Conclusions

α-PHE has an antinociceptive effect and it possibly involves the glutamatergic, opioid, nitrergic, cholinergic and adrenergic systems.
Radiation Properties of Oxygen-Enhanced Normal and Inverse Diffusion Flames
Authors: Krishnan S. S. , Saini M. K. , Zheng Y. , Gore J. P.
Published: December 2011

Radiative heat transfer in oxygen-enhanced inverse flame configurations is an important area of study for fundamental combustion research and for terrestrial and spacecraft fire safety. Motivated by this, heat flux distributions, total radiative heat loss and spectral radiation intensities were investigated experimentally for oxygen-enhanced normal and inverse laminar ethane diffusion flames with increasing heat release rates. The oxygen mole fraction in the oxidizer was varied as 21%, 30%, 50%, and 100% with coflowing normal and inverse flame burners used to stabilize the flames. The inverse diffusion flames were essentially nonluminous while the normal diffusion flames with identical heat release rates were highly luminous. Oxygen enhancement led to reduced flame lengths, increased luminosities and increased total radiative heat loss and spectral radiation intensities for both normal and inverse diffusion flames. Using flame length as the characteristic length parameter, the normalized radiative heat flux distributions for flames approximately collapsed together, further establishing the effectiveness of the single point radiant output measurement technique. Radiative heat loss fractions of normal and inverse diffusion flames with varying oxygen concentrations in the oxidizer are compared. The radiation spectra of all flames included significant contributions from gas radiation from carbon dioxide and water vapor and the radiation spectra of the high oxygen concentration flames included contributions from soot radiation.
Shock and Dynamic Loading in Portable Electronic Assemblies: Modeling and Simulation Results
Authors: Askari Farahani A. F. , Al-Bassyiouni M. , Dasgupta A.
Published: December 2011

In this study, the transient response of electronic assemblies to mechanical loading encountered in drop and shock conditions are investigated with transient finite element methods. Many manufacturers face design challenges when evolving new designs for high strain-rate life cycle loading. Examples of high strain-rate loading include drop events, blast events, vibration, ultrasonic process steps, etc. New design iterations invariably bring new unexpected failure modes under such loading and costly trial-and-error design fixes are often necessary after the product is built. Electronics designers have long sought to address these effects during the design phase, with the aid of computational models. However, such efforts have been difficult because of the nonlinearities inherent in complex assemblies and complex dynamic material properties. Our goal in this study is to investigate the ability of finite element models to accurately capture the transient response of a complex portable electronic product under shock and drop loading. Finite element models of the system are generated and calibrated with experimental results, first at the subsystem level to calibrate material properties and then at the product level to parametrically investigate the contact mechanics at the interfaces. The parametric study consists of sensitivity studies for different ways to model soft, nonconservative contact, as well as structural damping of the subassembly under assembly boundary conditions. The long-term goal of this study is to demonstrate a systematic modeling methodology to predict the drop response of future portable electronic products, so that relevant failure modes can be eliminated by design iterations early in the design cycle.
Flow and Heat Transfer in Microchannels With Dimples and Protrusions
Authors: Lan Jibing , Xie Yonghui , Zhang Di
Published: December 2011

Flow characteristics and heat transfer performances in a rectangular microchannel with dimples/protrusions are studied numerically in this research. The height and the width of the microchannel is 200 μm and 50 μm, respectively. The dimple/protrusion diameter is 100 μm, and the depth is 20 μm. The effects of Reynolds number, streamwise pitch, and arrangement pattern are examined. The numerical simulations are conducted using water as the coolant with the Reynolds number ranging from 100 to 900. The results show that dimple/protrusion technique in mcirochannel has the potential to provide heat transfer enhancement with low pressure penalty. The normalized Nusselt number is within the range from 1.12 to 4.77, and the corresponding normalized friction factor is within the range from 0.94 to 2.03. The thermal performance values show that the dimple + protrusion cases perform better than the dimple + smooth cases. The flow characteristics of the dimples/protrusions in microchannel are similar to those in conventional channel. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of energy saving, dimples/protrusions in microchannel behave better than those in conventional channel. Also from the viewpoint of field synergy principle, the synergy of the dimple + protrusion cases are much better than the dimple + smooth cases. Moreover, the synergy becomes worse with the increase in the Reynolds number and decrease in the streamwise pitch.