bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Review
Authors: Hay Arielle D. , Ilowite Norman T.
Published: November 2012

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Become familiar with the clinical presentation, differential diagnosis and potential complications of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

2.

Understand what is known about the pathogenesis of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis and role of inflammatory cytokines in this disease.

3.

Know the available treatments and current algorithm for treatment escalation in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a subtype of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, according to the recent International League of Associations for Rheumatology diagnostic criteria.
1
In North America and Europe, systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis accounts for 5% to 15% of children diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, although the disease is seen worldwide.
2
This review will summarize the clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, treatment, and prognosis of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It will also review one of the most interesting and feared complications of the disease, macrophage activation syndrome.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Juvenile Spondyloarthropathy and Related Diseases
Authors: Lin Clara , Milojevic Diana
Published: November 2012

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Identify which types of juvenile arthritis are at risk of developing into juvenile spondyloarthropathy (SpA).

2.

Understand the disease course of juvenile SpA.

3.

Know how to identify sacroiliitis and hip arthritis during a physical exam.

The term “spondyloarthropathy” is derived from the Greek
spondylos
(spine),
artho
(joint), and
pathos
(suffering). A subset of patients with childhood arthritis is at risk of developing spondyloarthropathy, a disease characterized by arthritis and abnormal new bone formation in axial joints. Patients at risk include children with enthesitis-related arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis, and reactive arthritis.
Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Chan Alice Y. , Milojevic Diana
Published: November 2012

CME Educational Objectives

1.

Become familiar with the different types of medications used in treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients.

2.

Learn common side effects associated with medications used in treating JIA patients.

3.

Become aware of counseling and screening measures on therapies used in JIA patients.

The treatment for juvenile idiopathic arthritis has evolved dramatically over the past few decades. Previously, treatment was mainly limited to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticoids, which generally decreased the immune responses and inflammation. As our understanding of disease pathogenesis has advanced, therapies have been designed to target specific dysregulated immune pathways. Targeted immune therapies have revolutionized the field of rheumatology and have made a significant impact on disease outcome.
A Survey of California Nursing Programs: Admission and Accommodation Policies for Students With Disabilities
Authors: Betz Cecily L. , Smith Kathryn A. , Bui Kim
Published: November 2012

A survey study was conducted to investigate the admission and accommodation policies of nursing programs for students with disabilities. Surveys were sent to 130 Board of Registered Nursing–approved nursing programs throughout California. Sixty-five (50%) of the surveys were returned and completed. Of the major findings of the study, learning disabilities were the most common type of disability reported. Testing time accommodations and a quiet environment were the most frequently requested and received accommodations. Seventy-two percent of nursing programs reported they have encountered students with disabilities who do not self-disclose or ask for accommodations. Most accommodations requested and received by students were classroom related. Few students with physical disabilities were reported as enrolled in nursing programs, possibly suggesting that prospective students with physical disabilities may not meet the physical requirements for nursing programs. Other reasons for underenrollment of students with disabilities should be explored, as well as reasons for nondisclosure.
Developing a Sustainable Foot Care Clinic in a Homeless Shelter Within an Academic–Community Partnership
Authors: Schoon Patricia M. , Champlin Barbara E. , Hunt Roberta J.
Published: November 2012

Nursing faculty are confronted with the need to design community learning activities with vulnerable populations to prepare students for nursing practice. The creation of sustainable academic–community partnerships with agencies providing care to underserved populations meets this challenge. This article describes the development and implementation of a foot care clinic in a homeless shelter, created through a model of curricular integration, faculty engagement, and a long-term academic–community partnership. A transformative pedagogical approach based on service–learning was used to facilitate student understanding of social justice through activities that promote citizenship, develop advocacy skills, and increase knowledge and skills related to the role of the public health nurse in the community. The process of designing and developing a community clinical learning activity and the essential components for sustainability are discussed. Student outcomes are addressed. Recommendations for implementing a foot care clinic within an academic–community partnership are outlined.
Severity of Familial Isolated Retinitis Pigmentosa Across Different Inheritance Patterns Among an Asian Indian Cohort
Authors: Bende Purva , Natarajan Krupa , Marudhamuthu Thennarasu , Madhavan Jagadeesan
Published: November 2012

Purpose:

To predict the progression to legal blindness in patients with isolated inherited retinitis pigmentosa.

Methods:

This retrospective study evaluated patients with isolated inherited retinitis pigmentosa for age at onset, duration of the disease, and best-corrected visual acuity in an Asian Indian cohort. The Mann–Whitney
U
test was used to analyze the variables.

Results:

Of 134 patients evaluated, 72% were autosomal recessive, 17% were autosomal dominant, and 11% were X-linked recessive pedigrees. Median age at onset was 8 years for X-linked recessive, 11 years for autosomal recessive, and 21 years for autosomal dominant disease, which was statistically significant. The refractive error due to axial myopia was significantly high in X-linked recessive (−3.50 diopter sphere) compared to autosomal recessive (−1 diopter sphere) and autosomal dominant (0.00 diopter sphere) cases (
P
< .000). Legal blindness occurred in 50% of X-linked recessive and autosomal recessive cases but in only 32% of autosomal dominant cases.

Conclusion:

Identifying the gene defects involved in this cohort will help understand the phenotype variability.
Outcomes of Pseudophakic Toric Intraocular Lens Implantation in Keratoconic Eyes With Cataract
Authors: Nanavaty Mayank A. , Lake Damian B. , Daya Sheraz M.
Published: November 2012

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the outcomes of pseudophakic toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in eyes with stable keratoconus and cataract.

METHODS:

Retrospective, noncomparative, case series of 12 eyes from 9 patients (mean age: 63.4±3.5 years) with stable mild to moderate keratoconus and cataract who underwent pseudophakic toric IOL implantation (AT TORBI 709M, AcriTec). Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refraction, keratometric findings, adverse events, and postoperative complications were recorded for all eyes.

RESULTS:

Mean postoperative follow-up was 9.0±8.8 months. At last postoperative follow-up, UDVA was 20/40 or better in 75% and CDVA was 20/40 or better in 83.3% of eyes. Postoperative mean refractive sphere (pre- vs postoperative: −4.80±5.60 vs 0.30±0.50 diopters [D]) and cylinder (pre- vs postoperative: 3.00±1.00 D vs 0.70±0.80 D) were significantly better (
P
<.01 for both). No intra- or postoperative complications occurred. No eyes had progression of keratoconus or significant IOL rotation at postoperative follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pseudophakic toric IOLs are an effective option and provide good vision in eyes with stable mild to moderate keratoconus and cataract.
Effect of Pupil Size on Uncorrected Visual Acuity in Pseudophakic Eyes With Astigmatism
Authors: Watanabe Kazuhiro , Negishi Kazuno , Dogru Murat , Yamaguchi Takefumi , Torii Hidemasa , Tsubota Kazuo
Published: November 2012

PURPOSE:

To study the effect of pupil size on the relationship between refractive astigmatism and uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and pseudoaccommodation in pseudophakic eyes.

METHODS:

Thirty-six eyes from 36 patients who underwent phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were included. All eyes were divided into two groups based on the presence of postoperative with-the-rule astigmatism or against-the-rule astigmatism. Uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), refractive astigmatism, subjective accommodation amplitude, and pupil sizes under photopic and mesopic conditions were measured 1 month postoperatively. The effects of pupil size on the relationship between refractive astigmatism and UDVA were investigated.

RESULTS:

Against-the-rule astigmatism had a moderate but significant negative linear correlation with UDVA irrespective of the pupil size (R
2
=0.60,
P
<.01). A moderate but significant negative linear correlation was found when the pupil diameter exceeded 2.9 mm in eyes with with-the-rule astigmatism (R
2
=0.46,
P
=.04). Refractive astigmatism was not significantly correlated with pseudoaccommodation regardless of the pupil diameter in either group.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of the current study suggest that pupil size may have an impact on postoperative UDVA in eyes having against the-rule astigmatism and in eyes with a large pupil diameter and with-the-rule astigmatism.
Prevalence of pansteatitis in African sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell), in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Huchzermeyer K. David A.
Published: November 2012

Pansteatitis was confirmed in sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus (Burchell), from three main locations within the Kruger National Park (KNP); the Olifants River Gorge, Engelhard Dam on the Letaba River and from the Sabie River in the Sabiepoort. An increasing prevalence of pansteatitis was observed in catfish during repeated samplings from the Olifants Gorge from 2009 to 2011 and co-existence of old and recent lesions indicated on-going incitement of pansteatitis. Only a low prevalence of pansteatitis was observed in catfish sampled from the Olifants River upstream of the Gorge in the KNP and no pansteatitis was observed in catfish sampled from a rain-filled dam not connected to the Olifants River. Common to both the Olifants Gorge and the Sabiepoort is the damming of the rivers in Mozambique to form lakes Massingir and Corumana respectively. Anthropogenic activities resulting in potential pollution of the rivers differ greatly between these two catchments, providing argument against a primary pollution-related aetiology of the pansteatitis found at these two sites. Compared with other sites, analysis of stomach contents of catfish from the Olifants Gorge and the Sabiepoort strongly suggested that consumption of a predominantly fish diet was associated with the development of pansteatitis in these fish. In a farmed population of catfish used as positive control, development of pansteatitis could be ascribed to consumption of rancid fish waste from a trout slaughterhouse. In the Olifants Gorge, alien invasive silver carp, Hypophthalmychthys molitrix (Valenciennes), seasonally migrate upstream out of Lake Massingir to spawn. This schooling species is an obligate phytoplankton feeder with consequent high levels of adipose tissue n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. In the Olifants Gorge, at least, this may explain seasonal exposure to levels of polyunsaturated fats in the diets of catfish and crocodiles to which these animals are not adapted. The possible roles of diet, membrane lipid composition and metabolic rate of fish, sediment pollution and seasonal drop in environmental temperature in the pathogenesis of pansteatitis in the catfish are discussed. Further studies are needed to verify some of these speculations.
Standard Operating Procedure for Prospective Individualised Dosimetry for [131] I-rituximab Radioimmunotherapy of Non-Hodgkin′s Lymphoma
Authors: Calais Phillipe , Turner J.
Published: November 2012

Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) is an attractive therapy for non-Hodgkin′s lymphoma (NHL) as it allows targeted tumor irradiation which provides a cytotoxic effect significantly greater than that of the immune-mediated effects of a non-radioactive, or ′cold′, antibody alone. Anti-CD20 antibodies such as rituximab are ideal for RIT, as not only is it easily iodinated, but the CD20 antigen is found on more than 95% of B-cell NHL. A standard operating procedure (SOP) has been formulated for personalized prospective dosimetry for safe, effective outpatient 131 I-rituximab RIT of NHL. Over five years, experience of treatment of outpatients with 131 I-rituximab was analyzed with respect to critical organ radiation dose in patients and radiation exposure of their carers. This radiation safety methodology has been refined; and offers the potential for safe, practical application to outpatient 131 I-rituximab RIT of lymphoma in general and in developing countries in particular. Given endorsement and sanction of this SOP by local regulatory authorities the personalized dosimetry paradigm will facilitate incorporation of RIT into the routine clinical practice of therapeutic nuclear oncology worldwide.
18 F-FLT-PET for response evaluation of MEK inhibitor selumetinib (AZD6244, ARRY-142886) in patients with solid tumors
Authors: Desar Ingrid , Gilles Rozemarie , van Herpen Carla , Timmer-Bonte Anja J. , Cantarini Mireille , van der Graaf Winette , Oyen Wim
Published: November 2012

Selumetinib (AZD6244, ARRY-142886) is a potent, selective, uncompetitive inhibitor of MEK 1 / 2, part of the RAF/MEK/ERK protein kinase signal cascade, which is responsible for tumor. This pilot study was used to explore if 18  F-fluoro-l-thymidine (FLT), a thymidine analogue positron emission tomography (PET) tracer and a surrogate marker for proliferation, can be used as an early predictor of response for patients with solid cancers treated with Selumetinib. FLT-PET scans were performed in four patients at baseline and after 2 weeks of treatment with Selumetinib. FLT uptake in tumors was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by measuring standard uptake value (SUV) max in regions of interest (ROI). Results were compared to computed tomography (CT) scans (baseline and after 8 weeks), which were evaluated using the response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) 1.0 criteria. One patient with melanoma showed both a qualitative and quantitative decrease in FLT uptake associated with a decrease in sum of longest diameter of 12% RECIST on CT evaluation. Another patient who had colorectal carcinoma (CRC) showed a significant increase in FLT uptake with initially stable, but eventually progressive disease on CT. The other two patients (one with melanoma and one with CRC) showed no significant changes in FLT uptake, whereas CT evaluation showed progressive disease. This is the first report describing changes in FLT-PET in patients receiving Selumetinib. In two patients, changes in FLT uptake as early as after 2 weeks of treatment were consistent with CT results after 8 weeks. Biomarkers to predict and evaluate treatment the outcome of targeted therapies are highly warranted. These initial results need further investigation.
Unilateral breast uptake of Tc-99m pertechnetate in a patient with cold nodule of the thyroid
Authors: Gayana Shankaramurthy , Bhattacharya Anish , Kamaleshwaran Koramadai , Mittal Bhagwant
Published: November 2012

Common causes of unilateral breast uptake of Tc-99m pertechnetate are predominant breast-feeding on one side, mastitis, and breast cancer. Uptake of Tc-99m pertechnetate in the epithelial cells of the breast, like that of iodide, depends on the transmembrane sodium/iodide symporter (NIS), the expression of which is known to be greatly enhanced during lactation and in breast cancer. The authors present an interesting case of predominant left breast uptake of Tc-99m pertechnetate detected incidentally during thyroid scintigraphy, for the evaluation of a nodule in the left lobe of thyroid.
Restoration of tooth fractures using fiber post and fragment reattachment: Three case reports
Authors: Akyuz Sefika Nur , Erdemir Ali
Published: November 2012

Mostly affected teeth from dental trauma are maxillary anterior teeth . The immediate agglutination of original fractured tooth part is a good alternative option in the scope of emergency treatment for remaining esthetical and functional problems. In this case presentation, the endodontic and esthetic treatment approach of crown and crown-root fractures that were occurred in various levels is shown.
Similar caries pattern in monozygotic twins: Role of nature and/or nurture
Authors: Deshpande Anshula , Deshpande Neeraj
Published: November 2012

The present article attempts to relook at the role of genetics in the caries pattern in pediatric patients. Genetics exerts a major influence on initiation and progression of caries. Several investigators have studied the genetic aspects in humans using both twin studies and family pedigree approaches. The recent advances in molecular biology and the outcomes of the Human Genome Project can help to have innovative approaches to understand the etiology of this complex disease. A pair of 5-year-old monozygotic twin brothers was referred by the Pediatrician for multiple caries. Both the brothers were reared apart but presented with similar dental caries traits. Comprehensive oral health care with a preventive and therapeutic procedure was provided. Periodic recall visits were scheduled after every 6 months. By studying dental diseases in the twins reared apart, the element of environmental influence is eliminated while retaining the advantage of similar genotype in monozygotic twins. This report of monozygotic twins imparts light on the significant contribution of genetic factors on caries susceptibility.
Crown fragment reattachment in anterior-fractured tooth: A five-year follow-up
Authors: Martos Josué , Koller Clarissa D. , Silveira Luiz F. M. , Cesar-Neto João B.
Published: November 2012

Treatment of anterior dental fractures often requires an immediate procedure. Reattachment of the fragment to its original position is an optimal approach to aesthetic and functional rehabilitation. This paper reports the case of a permanent maxillary lateral incisor with crown fracture treated by adhesive fragment reattachment. Follow-up radiographs over 5 years demonstrated the satisfactory resolution of the clinical case.
Translating discoveries of research into general practice: Need of the hour
Authors: Goyal Lata , Gupta N. D. , Sharma Vivek K.
Published: November 2012

We live in an era of information, innovation and change. There are a wide range of differences between what is known and what is practiced. Variation occurs due to gap between the time that basic and clinical research knowledge takes for transforming into reality of practice. As a result, there is delay between adopting new and useful information and discarding ineffective and harmful ones. The way to fill this gap is performing evaluations of findings available and by making them accessible to the clinician. It is of paramount importance that clinical decision regarding patient health care should incorporate the best available scientific evidence. Clinical decision making based on good quality evidence will lead to more effective and efficient treatments. Evidence alone is never sufficient to make a clinical decision. For effective care, the practitioner needs a more efficient and effective way to search for information as wells as skills to rapidly evaluate and sort out what is useful and relevant.
Can We Legally Pay People for Being Good? A Review of Current Federal and State Law on Wellness Program Incentives
Authors: Klautzer Lisa , Mattke Soeren , Greenberg Michael
Published: November 2012

Incentives to participate in wellness programs or reach health-related targets are becoming popular, but might expose employers and insurers to litigation risk because incentives might violate state and federal insurance, anti-discrimination, or privacy laws. This paper reviews relevant state and federal law, as well as case law and secondary literature. Findings suggest that convergence of state and federal law and recent court decisions have clarified the range of permissible incentives so that litigation risk under bona fide wellness programs seems limited.
Eligibility and Take-up of the Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy
Authors: Shoemaker J. Samantha , Davidoff Amy J. , Stuart Bruce , Zuckerman Ilene H. , Onukwugha Eberechukwu , Powers Christopher
Published: November 2012

There is concern about poor take-up of the Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), but uncertainty in published estimates. The Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS), which contains Medicare LIS enrollment records and extensive survey data on individual beneficiary characteristics, would appear an ideal resource for evaluating LIS take-up. However, use of the MCBS to identify eligible beneficiaries is limited due to underreporting of income and lack of asset information in the published MCBS releases. We evaluate LIS eligibility and participation by enhancing the reliability of MCBS financial information using unpublished survey data on income and assets together with an income imputation procedure.
Influence of particle size and shape on the backscattering linear depolarisation ratio of small ice crystals – cloud chamber measurements in the context of contrail and cirrus microphysics
Authors: Schnaiter M. , Büttner S. , Möhler O. , Skrotzki J. , Vragel M. , Wagner R.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The article presents the laser scattering and depolarisation instrument SIMONE that is installed at the large aerosol and cloud chamber facility AIDA of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. SIMONE uses a 488 nm cw laser to probe simulated atmospheric clouds by measuring the scattered light from the 1.8° and 178.2° directions. At 178.2°, the scattered light is analysed for the linear polarisation state to deduce the particle linear depolarisation ratio δp which is a common measurement parameter of atmospheric lidar applications. The optical setup and the mathematical formalism of the depolarisation detection concept are given. SIMONE depolarisation measurements in spheroidal hematite aerosol and supercooled liquid clouds are used to validate the instrument. SIMONE data from a series of AIDA ice nucleation experiments at temperatures between 195 and 225 K were analysed in terms of the impact of the ice particle microphysics on δp. We found strong depolarisation values of up to 0.4 in case of small growing and sublimating ice particles with volume equivalent diameters of only a few micrometers. Modelling runs with the T-matrix method showed that the measured depolarisation ratios can be accurately reproduced assuming spheroidal and cylindrical particles with a size distribution that has been constrained by IR extinction spectroscopy. Based on the T-matrix modelling runs, we demonstrate that in case of small ice crystals the SIMONE depolarisation results are representative for the lidar depolarisation ratio which is measured at exact backscattering direction of 180°. The relevance of our results for the interpretation of recent lidar observations in cirrus and contrails is discussed. In view of our results, the high depolarisation ratios observed by the spaceborne lidar CALIOP in the tropical upper troposphere might be a hint for the presence of small (sublimating) ice particles in the outflows of deep convective systems.
A comprehensive benchmarking system for evaluating global vegetation models
Authors: Kelley D. I. , Colin Prentice I. , Harrison S. P. , Wang H. , Simard M. , Fisher J. B. , Willis K. O.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. We present a benchmark system for global vegetation models. This system provides a quantitative evaluation of multiple simulated vegetation properties, including primary production; seasonal net ecosystem production; vegetation cover, composition and height; fire regime; and runoff. The benchmarks are derived from remotely sensed gridded datasets and site-based observations. The datasets allow comparisons of annual average conditions and seasonal and inter-annual variability, and they allow the impact of spatial and temporal biases in means and variability to be assessed separately. Specifically designed metrics quantify model performance for each process, and are compared to scores based on the temporal or spatial mean value of the observations and a "random" model produced by bootstrap resampling of the observations. The benchmark system is applied to three models: a simple light-use efficiency and water-balance model (the Simple Diagnostic Biosphere Model: SDBM), and the Lund-Potsdam-Jena (LPJ) and Land Processes and eXchanges (LPX) dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs). SDBM reproduces observed CO2 seasonal cycles, but its simulation of independent measurements of net primary production (NPP) is too high. The two DGVMs show little difference for most benchmarks (including the inter-annual variability in the growth rate and seasonal cycle of atmospheric CO2), but LPX represents burnt fraction demonstrably more accurately. Benchmarking also identified several weaknesses common to both DGVMs. The benchmarking system provides a quantitative approach for evaluating how adequately processes are represented in a model, identifying errors and biases, tracking improvements in performance through model development, and discriminating among models. Adoption of such a system would do much to improve confidence in terrestrial model predictions of climate change impacts and feedbacks.
Peripheral Disclosure
Authors: Rantanen Jason
Published: November 2012

None
Raze the Dead: Urban Blight, Private Universities, and the Path Towards Revitalization
Authors: Hoffman Josh
Published: November 2012

None
Role of Interleukin 6–174G>C Polymorphism in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Zimmermann Christina , Weger Martin , Faschinger Christoph , Renner Wilfried , Mossböck Georg
Published: November 2012

Purpose.

In addition to its proinflammatory effects, interleukin (IL)–6 also possesses antiapoptotic properties. Recently, IL-6 has been reported to protect retinal ganglion cells from pressure-induced apoptosis, indicating a possible role in the pathogenesis of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). A common polymorphism in the promoter region of IL-6 gene at position -174 characterized by a substitution from G to C has been found to decrease transcription rate of IL-6. The aim of our study was to investigate a hypothesized association between IL-6-174G>C polymorphism and POAG in Caucasian patients.

Methods.

The present case-control study comprised 191 unrelated patients with POAG and 191 control subjects, matched for age and sex. Genotyping of the IL-6-174G>C polymorphism was done using polymerase chain reaction.

Results.

Allelic frequencies and genotype distribution of IL-6-174G>C did not significantly differ between patients with POAG and control subjects (p>0.05). Presence of the IL-6-174C allele was associated with a nonsignificant odds ratio of 0.78 (95% confidence interval 0.46–1.32; p=0.78) for POAG.

Conclusions.

Our findings suggest that the functional IL-6-174G>C polymorphism itself is unlikely a major risk factor for POAG.
Adaptive threshold generation in robust fault detection using interval models: time‐domain and frequency‐domain approaches
Authors: Puig Vicenç , de Oca Saúl Montes , Blesa Joaquim
Published: November 2012

In this paper, robust fault detection is addressed on the basis of evaluating the residual energy that it is compared against worst‐case value (threshold) generated considering parametric modeling uncertainty using interval models. The evaluation of the residual/threshold energy can be performed either in the time or frequency domain. This paper proposes methods to compute such energy in the two domains. The first method generates the adaptive threshold in the time domain through determining the worst‐case time evolution of the residual energy using a zonotope‐based algorithm. The second method evaluates the worst‐case energy evolution in the frequency domain using the Kharitonov polynomials. Results obtained using both approaches are related through the Parseval's theorem. Finally, two application examples (a smart servoactuator and a two DOFs helicopter) will be used to assess the validity of the proposed approaches and compare the results obtained. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Offset‐free multistep nonlinear model predictive control under plant–model mismatch
Authors: Tian Xuemin , Wang Ping , Huang Dexian , Chen Sheng
Published: November 2012

A multistep nonlinear model predictive control (MPC) framework is developed to achieve steady‐state offset‐free control in the presence of plant–model mismatch. Our formulation explicitly accounts for the effect of plant–model mismatch by involving the output feedback error, which is expressed as the difference between the measured process output and the predicted model output at the previous sampling instance, in the multistep model recursive prediction. The proposed scheme is capable of improving the performance of nonlinear MPC, because the plant–model mismatch is effectively compensated through the recursive prediction propagation. We prove that this formulation is able to remove the steady‐state error to achieve offset‐free control. The proposed nonlinear MPC framework is applied to a highly nonlinear two‐input two‐output continuous stirred tank reactor, in comparison with other MPC implementations. The results obtained demonstrate that the proposed technique outperforms some existing popular MPC schemes and can realise offset‐free control even under significant plant–model mismatch and unmeasured disturbances. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Occupational exposure and mortality among workers at three titanium dioxide plants
Authors: Ellis Elizabeth D. , Watkins Janice P. , Tankersley William G. , Phillips Joyce A. , Girardi David J.
Published: November 2012

Background

A cohort of 3,607 workers employed in three DuPont titanium dioxide production facilities was followed from 1935 through 2006.

Methods

Combined and plant‐specific cohort mortality was compared with the overall US population and other DuPont employees. The relationships between selected causes of death and annual cumulative exposures to titanium dioxide and chloride were investigated using Poisson regression methods to examine trends with increasing exposure.

Results

Among the 833 deaths, no causes of deaths were statistically significantly elevated either overall or plant‐specific when compared to the US population. Compared to DuPont workers, statistically significantly elevated SMRs for all causes, all cancers, and lung cancers were found driven by the workers at the oldest plant. Comparing increasing exposure groups to the lowest group, disease risk did not increase with exposure.

Conclusions

There was no indication of a positive association between occupational exposure and death from all causes, all cancers, lung cancers, non‐malignant respiratory disease, or all heart disease. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:282–291, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of opioid‐related deaths by work‐related injury
Authors: Cheng Melissa , Sauer Brian , Johnson Erin , Porucznik Christina , Hegmann Kurt
Published: November 2012

Objective

To infer whether work‐related injuries may impact opioid‐related deaths.

Methods

Descriptive comparisons were done using data from the Utah Department of Health, the Office of Medical Examiners, and the Labor Commission on all Utah residents who died from opioid‐related deaths from 2008 to 2009.

Results

The majority of decedents (145 of 254, 57%) had at least one prior work‐related injury. Demographics were similar regardless of work injury status. However, lack of high school diploma (18% vs. 7%, P < 0.001), prevalence of mental illness (50% vs. 15%, P < 0.001), tobacco (61% vs. 12%, P < 0.001), alcohol (87% vs. 28%, P < 0.001), and illicit drug (50% vs. 4%, P < 0.001) use were all substantially higher than the background population.

Conclusion

A detailed history and screening for mental illness and substance abuse, including tobacco use, among injured workers may be helpful in avoiding potential opioid‐related deaths. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:308–316, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Detection of human papillomavirus in human focal cortical dysplasia type IIB
Authors: Chen Julie , Tsai Victoria , Parker Whitney E. , Aronica Eleonora , Baybis Marianna , Crino Peter B.
Published: November 2012

Objective:

Focal cortical dysplasia type IIB (FCDIIB) is a sporadic developmental malformation of the cerebral cortex highly associated with pediatric epilepsy. Balloon cells (BCs) in FCDIIB exhibit constitutive activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling pathway. Recently, the high‐risk human papillomavirus type 16 oncoprotein E6 was identified as a potent activator of mTORC1 signaling. Here, we test the hypothesis that HPV16 E6 is present in human FCDIIB specimens.

Methods:

HPV16 E6 protein expression was assayed by immunohistochemistry in FCDIIB specimens (n = 50) and control brain specimens (n = 36). HPV16 E6 DNA was assayed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization; HPV16 E6 mRNA was assayed by reverse transcriptase PCR. HPV16 E6 was transfected into fetal mouse brains by in utero electroporation to test the effects of E6 on cortical development.

Results:

HPV16 E6 protein was robustly expressed in all FCDIIB specimens in BCs, but not in regions without BCs or in control tissue specimens including normal brain, lymphoblasts, and fibroblasts, cortical tubers, and U87 glioma cells. E6 expression in FCDIIB colocalized with phosphoactivated S6 protein, a known mTORC1 substrate. HPV16 E6 DNA and mRNA were detected in representative specimens of FCDIIB but not control cortex, and were confirmed by sequencing. Transfection of E6 into fetal mouse brains caused a focal cortical malformation in association with enhanced mTORC1 signaling.

Interpretation:

Our results indicate a new association between HPV16 E6 and FCDIIB and demonstrate for the first time HPV16 E6 in the human brain. We propose a novel etiology for FCDIIB based on HPV16 E6 expression during fetal brain development. ANN NEUROL 2012;72:881–892
Cerebral venous system and anatomical predisposition to high‐altitude headache
Authors: Wilson Mark H. , Davagnanam Indran , Holland Graeme , Dattani Raj S. , Tamm Alexander , Hirani Shashivadan P. , Kolfschoten Nicky , Strycharczuk Lisa , Green Cathy , Thornton John S. , Wright Alex , Edsell Mark , Kitchen Neil D. , Sharp David J. , Ham Timothy E. , Murray Andrew , Holloway Cameron J. , Clarke Kieran , Grocott Mike P.W. , Montgomery Hugh , Imray Chris ,   Birmingham Medical Research Expeditionary Society and Caudwell Xtreme Everest Research Group
Published: November 2012

Objective

As inspired oxygen availability falls with ascent to altitude, some individuals develop high‐altitude headache (HAH). We postulated that HAH results when hypoxia‐associated increases in cerebral blood flow occur in the context of restricted venous drainage, and is worsened when cerebral compliance is reduced. We explored this hypothesis in 3 studies.

Methods

In high‐altitude studies, retinal venous distension (RVD) was ophthalmoscopically assessed in 24 subjects (6 female) and sea‐level cranial magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 12 subjects ascending to 5,300m. Correlation of headache burden (summed severity scores [0–4] ≤24 hours from arrival at each altitude) with RVD, and with cerebral/cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)/venous compartment volumes, was sought. In a sea‐level hypoxic study, 11 subjects underwent gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance venography before and during hypoxic challenge (fraction of inspired oxygen = 0.11, 1 hour).

Results

In the high‐altitude studies, headache burden correlated with both RVD (Spearman rho = 0.55, p = 0.005) and with the degree of narrowing of 1 or both transverse venous sinuses (r = −0.56, p = 0.03). It also related inversely to both the lateral + third ventricle summed volumes (Spearman rho = −0.5, p = 0.05) and pericerebellar CSF volume (r = −0.56, p = 0.03). In the hypoxic study, cerebral and retinal vein engorgement were correlated, and rose as the combined conduit score fell (a measure of venous outflow restriction; r = ‐0.66, p < 0.05 and r = −0.75, p < 0.05, respectively).

Interpretation

Arterial hypoxemia is associated with cerebral and retinal venous distension, whose magnitude correlates with HAH burden. Restriction in cerebral venous outflow is associated with retinal distension and HAH. Limitations in cerebral venous efferent flow may predispose to headache when hypoxia‐related increases in cerebral arterial flow occur. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:381–389
Validation of nigrostriatal positron emission tomography measures: Critical limits
Authors: Karimi Morvarid , Tian LinLin , Brown Christopher A. , Flores Hubert P. , Loftin Susan K. , Videen Tom O. , Moerlein Stephen M. , Perlmutter Joel S.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Molecular imaging and clinical endpoints are frequently discordant in Parkinson disease clinical trials, raising questions about validity of these imaging measures to reflect disease severity. We compared striatal uptake for 3 positron emission tomography (PET) tracers with in vitro measures of nigral cell counts and striatal dopamine in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐treated monkeys.

Methods

Sixteen macaques had magnetic resonance imaging and baseline PETs using 6‐[18F]fluorodopa (FD), [11C]dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ), and 2beta‐[11C]carbomethoxy‐3beta‐(4‐fluorophenyl)tropane (CFT). MPTP (0–0.31mg/kg) infused unilaterally via the internal carotid artery produced stable hemiparkinsonism by 3 weeks. After 8 weeks, PETs were repeated and animals were euthanized for striatal dopamine measurements and unbiased counts of tyrosine hydroxylase–stained nigral cells.

Results

Striatal uptake for each radiotracer (FD, DTBZ, CFT) correlated with stereologic nigral cell counts only for nigral loss <50% (r2 = 0.84, r2 = 0.86, r2 = 0.87, p < 0.001 respectively; n = 10). In contrast, striatal uptake correlated with striatal dopamine over the full range of dopamine depletion (r2 = 0.95, r2 = 0.94, r2 = 0.94, p < 0.001; n = 16). Interestingly, indices of striatal uptake of FD, DTBZ, and CFT correlated strongly with each other (r2 = 0.98, p < 0.001).

Interpretation

Tracer uptake correlated with nigral neurons only when nigral loss was <50%. This along with previous work demonstrating that nigral cell counts correlate strongly with parkinsonism ratings may explain discordant results between neuroimaging and clinical endpoints. Furthermore, strong correlations among striatal uptake for these tracers support lack of differential regulation of decarboxylase activity (FD), vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 (DTBZ), and dopamine transporter (CFT) within 2 months after nigrostriatal injury. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:390–396
Nanoplasmonic structures for biophotonic applications: SERS overview
Authors: Gopalakrishnan A. , Malerba M. , Tuccio S. , Panaro S. , Miele E. , Chirumamilla M. , Santoriello S. , Dorigoni C. , Giugni A. , Proietti Zaccaria R. , Liberale C. , De Angelis F. , Razzari L. , Krahne R. , Toma A. , Das G. , Di Fabrizio E.
Published: November 2012

Various nanoplasmonic devices were fabricated using top‐down method such as electron beam lithography, electroplating and focused ion beam techniques. These substrates were investigated after depositing the molecules from dye to protein, using chemisorptions techniques. Theoretical simulations were also performed on these model nanostructures in order to understand the electrical field distribution. Furthermore, the future prospects of these nanostructures were also mentioned in this report.
Synthesis and Application of Water‐Soluble NHC Transition‐Metal Complexes
Authors: Schaper Lars‐Arne , Hock Sebastian J. , Herrmann Wolfgang A. , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: November 2012

We provide an overview on the state‐of‐the‐art in transition‐metal complexes formed with water‐soluble NHC ligands. Paths to introducing water solubility by ligand design are elucidated and some general properties of water‐soluble NHC complexes are highlighted. The enhanced hydrophilicity of water‐soluble catalysts offers advantages in applications. While studies based on CC coupling reactions still dominate the field, recent reports show water‐soluble NHC complexes can be applied in metathesis and hydrogenation reactions and turn out to be among the best performing catalysts known. Nevertheless, wide areas of this young field remain to be investigated, offering great potential for future research.
Biobased thermosetting resins composed of terpene and bismaleimide
Authors: Shibata Mitsuhiro , Asano Masanori
Published: November 2012

Prepolymers prepared by reactions of 1,1′‐(methylenedi‐4,1‐phenylene)bismaleimide (BMI) with myrcene (Myr) and limonene (Lim) in 1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐imidazolidinone (DMI) at 150°C were compressed at 250°C to produce crosslinked Myr/BMI [molar ratio = 2:2–2:5 (MB22–MB25)] and Lim/BMI [molar ratio = 1:1 (LB11)] resins. The 1H‐NMR analysis of the model reaction products of Lim and Myr with N‐phenyl maleimide (PMI) in DMI at 150°C revealed that a Diels–Alder reaction for Myr/PMI and a vinyl copolymerization for Lim/PMI preferentially proceeded in addition to the occurrence of the ene reaction to some extent. The Fourier transform infrared data of the cured resins were consistent with the results of the model reactions. All of the cured resins, except for MB22, showed tan δ peak values and 10% weight loss temperatures that were higher than 330 and 440°C, respectively. The flexural strength and modulus values of the MBs were higher than those of LB11. Field emission scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that MB22–MB24 were homogeneous, whereas some combined particles appeared in LB11. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Polymer/clay nanocomposite plasticization: Elucidating the influence of quaternary alkylammonium organic modifiers
Authors: Pavlacky Erin , Webster Dean C.
Published: November 2012

The potential of nanoclay organic modifiers to induce plasticizing effects in resin and coatings systems was studied. In previous work, it was found that while low amounts of incorporation of organomodified clays significantly improved the physical and mechanical properties of a ultraviolet (UV)‐curable nanocomposite, further increasing the organomodified clay content could result in the reduction of properties. To investigate the potential impact of the organic modifier composition and concentration on polymer properties, a series of experiments were carried out using only the organic modifier. Methyl, tallow, bis‐2‐hydroxyethyl ammonium (MTEtOH), the organic modifier used in montmorillonite clay Cloisite® 30B, was dispersed with precursor polyester oligomers at 1–10 wt % through an in situ synthesis process and via sonication, and UV‐curable coatings were prepared from these MTEtOH‐containing resins. The organic modifier cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was also studied to examine the impact of the organic modifier structure. According to differential scanning calorimetry, small decreases in the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the MTEtOH‐containing polyesters were observed, but CTAB‐containing polyesters had small Tg increases. Polyester molecular weight and viscosity were also affected by both the structure of the organic modifier as well as its concentration. The mechanical performance of the UV‐curable coatings diminished with increased MTEtOH concentration for the films containing the organic modifier compared to a control film. Furthermore, the crosslink density was found to reduce ∼ 50% with increased MTEtOH loading into the UV‐curable films. The cure characteristics, thermal stability, and optical clarity were also studied. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis of a phosphorus/silicon hybrid and its synergistic effect with melamine polyphosphates on flame retardant polypropylene system
Authors: Huang Y. W. , Song M. L. , Ma J. J. , Lu Z. Y. , Yang J. X. , Cao K.
Published: November 2012

A novel flame retardant (SDPS) containing POSi bands was synthesized by a condensation polymerization of diphenylhydroxysilane and spirocyclic pentaerythritol di(phosphate monochloride). The structure of SDPS was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). Limiting oxygen index (LOI) test showed that when loading 22.5 wt % SDPS and 7.5 wt % in polypropylene, LOI value markedly increased to 31.4% in comparison with PP/SDPS (30 wt %) and PP/MP (30 wt %) systems. Combusting experiment further proved a synergistic effect of SDPS and melamine polyphosphates (MP) in flame retarding of polypropylene. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and FTIR‐TG results revealed that the synergistic effect was attributed to a catalyzed breaking down of POSi bands in the presence of MP, which acted as an acid catalyst, consequently leading to a facilitated char and silica forming process. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Temperature and pH effects on the stability and rheological behavior of the aqueous suspensions of smart polymers based on N‐isopropylacrylamide, chitosan, and acrylic acid
Authors: do Nascimento Marques Nívia , Curti Priscila Schroeder , da Silva Maia Ana Maria , Balaban Rosangela de Carvalho
Published: November 2012

This study describes the stability and rheological behavior of suspensions of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐chitosan (PNIPAM‐CS), and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)‐chitosan‐poly(acrylic acid) (PNIPAM‐CS‐PAA) crosslinked particles sensitive to pH and temperature. These dual‐sensitive materials were simply obtained by one‐pot method, via free‐radical precipitation copolymerization with potassium persulfate, using N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide as a crosslinking agent. Incorporation of the precursor materials into the chemical networks was confirmed by elementary analysis and infrared spectroscopy. The influence of external stimuli such as pH and temperature, or both, on particle behavior was investigated through rheological measurements, visual stability tests, and analytical centrifugation. The PNIPAM‐CS particles showed higher stability in acid and neutral media, whereas PNIPAM‐CS‐PAA particles were more stable in neutral and alkaline media, both below and above the lower critical solution temperature of PNIPAM (stability data). This is due to different interparticle interactions as well as those between the particles and the medium (also evidenced by rheological data), which were also influenced by the pH and temperature of the medium. Based on the results obtained, we found that the introduction of pH‐sensitive polymers to crosslinked PNIPAM particles not only produced dual‐sensitive materials but also allowed particle stability to be adjusted, making phase separation faster or slower, depending on the desired application. Thus, it is possible to adapt the material to different media. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013