bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-situ stress and strain measurements around cracks using synchrotron X-ray diffraction
Authors: Steuwer A , Daniels J E
Published: July 2011

High-energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction offers the unique combination of high spatial resolution and bulk material penetration power, which is well suited for the investigation of strain fields around cracks in engineering materials. The speed of data acquisition also lends itself to the observation of in-situ processes, such as crack propagation. This potential has been only partially explored over the last decade, and this paper reviews some basic advances with a view to future developments.
Drug-induced changes in cortical inhibition in medication overuse headache
Authors: Currà Antonio , Coppola Gianluca , Gorini Manuela , Porretta Elisa , Bracaglia Martina , Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Schoenen Jean , Pierelli Francesco
Published: July 2011

Background: We investigated whether chronic headache related to medication overuse (MOH) is associated with changes in brain mechanisms regulating inhibitory cortical responses compared with healthy volunteers and episodic migraineurs recorded between attacks, and whether these changes differ according to the drug overused.

Subjects and Methods: We studied 40 MOH patients whose symptoms were related to triptans alone, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or both medications combined, 12 migraineurs and 13 healthy volunteers. We used high-intensity transcranial magnetic stimulation over the primary motor cortex to assess the silent period from contracted perioral muscles.

Results: In MOH patients the cortical silent period differed according to the type of headache medication overused: in patients overusing triptans alone it was shorter than in healthy volunteers (44.7 ± 14.2 vs. 108.1 ± 30.1 ms), but similar to that reported in migraineurs (59.9 ± 30.4 ms), whereas in patients overusing NSAIDs alone or triptans and NSAIDs combined duration of silent period was within normal limits (80.6 ± 46.4 and 103.8 ± 47.2 ms).

Conclusions: Compared with episodic migraineurs, MOH patients overusing triptans have no significant change in cortical inhibition, whereas those overusing NSAIDs have an increase in cortical inhibitory mechanisms. We attribute these changes to medication-induced neural adaptation promoted by changes in central serotonin neurotransmission.
Functional and Structural Outcomes of Single-Row Versus Double-Row Versus Combined Double-Row and Suture-Bridge Repair for Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Mihata Teruhisa , Watanabe Chisato , Fukunishi Kunimoto , Ohue Mutsumi , Tsujimura Tomoyuki , Fujiwara Kenta , Kinoshita Mitsuo
Published: July 2011

Background: Although previous biomechanical research has demonstrated the superiority of the suture-bridge rotator cuff repair over double-row repair from a mechanical point of view, no articles have described the structural and functional outcomes of this type of procedure.

Hypothesis: The structural and functional outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be different between the single-row, double-row, and combined double-row and suture-bridge (compression double-row) techniques.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: There were 206 shoulders in 201 patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears that underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Eleven patients were lost to follow-up. Sixty-five shoulders were repaired using the single-row, 23 shoulders using the double-row, and 107 shoulders using the compression double-row techniques. Clinical outcomes were evaluated at an average of 38.5 months (range, 24-74 months) after rotator cuff repair. Postoperative cuff integrity was determined using Sugaya’s classification of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results: The retear rates after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were 10.8%, 26.1%, and 4.7%, respectively, for the single-row, double-row, and compression double-row techniques. In the subcategory of large and massive rotator cuff tears, the retear rate in the compression double-row group (3 of 40 shoulders, 7.5%) was significantly less than those in the single-row group (5 of 8 shoulders, 62.5%, P < .001) and the double-row group (5 of 12 shoulders, 41.7%, P < .01). Postoperative clinical outcomes in patients with a retear were significantly lower than those in patients without a retear for all 3 techniques.

Conclusion: The additional suture bridges decreased the retear rate for large and massive tears. The combination of the double-row and suture-bridge techniques, which had the lowest rate of postoperative retear, is an effective option for arthroscopic repair of the rotator cuff tendons because the postoperative functional outcome in patients with a retear is inferior to that without retear.
Is the Anterior Tibial Artery Safe During Ankle Arthroscopy?
Authors: Son Kwang-Hyun , Cho Jae Ho , Lee Jin Woo , Kwack Kyu-Sung , Han Seung Hwan
Published: July 2011

Background: Pseudoaneurysm of the anterior tibial artery (ATA) after ankle arthroscopy is an uncommon complication but can cause unexpected consequences. However, its contributing factor is not fully understood.

Hypothesis: Anatomic factors, such as ATA variations and the distance between the ATA and joint capsule, may contribute to the occurrence of pseudoaneurysm.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: The magnetic resonance images and medical records of 358 ankle cases were analyzed. According to locations of the ATA in relation to the peroneus tertius (PT) and the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) tendon on axial magnetic resonance imaging, patients were classified as type 1 (safe type), type 2 (increased risk type), or type 3 (high-risk type). In addition, distances between the anterior joint capsule and the ATA were measured to evaluate the thickness of the anterior fat pad, which contains the ATA and anterior compartment tendons.

Results: In 336 cases (93.8%), the ATA was located medial to the EDL (type 1, safe). In 7 cases (2.0%), the ATA was located lateral to the EDL and PT tendon (type 2, increased risk); and in 15 cases (4.2%), the branching artery was observed lateral to the EDL and PT tendon and the ATA was in the normal position (type 3, high risk). The mean distance between the anterior joint capsule and the ATA was 2.3 ± 1.1 mm.

Conclusion: In 22 (6.2%) of the 358 cases, the ATA and its branches were located near the anterolateral ankle portal, which introduces the risk of vascular damage during arthroscopic surgery. Furthermore, the mean distance between the ATA and the joint capsule was only 2.3 ± 1.1 mm, and thus the ATA is very close to the anterior working space of the ankle joint. Careful preoperative evaluation and an intra-articular procedure may reduce the risk of vascular complications attributable to ankle arthroscopy.
The High School Experience
Authors: Repetto Jeanne B. , McGorray Susan P. , Wang Hua , Podmostko Mary , Andrews W. Drew , Lubbers Joyce , Gritz Sheila
Published: July 2011

Results of the Florida High School Exit Survey collected in 2006–2007 and 2007–2008 are presented. Participants include 2,520 students with and without disabilities across 40 school districts. Survey items cover questions relating to employment, postsecondary education and training, daily living, quality of life, agency connections, in-school experiences, and school-based work experiences. Findings suggest that students with disabilities feel better about knowing what they want to do after high school and how to achieve their goals but have few interactions with friends in social activities. Conversely, students without disabilities feel better prepared academically and participate more with friends in social activities. Identifying these trends can assist districts in improving school programs and student outcomes.
Experimental investigation of the surface roughness in ultrasonic-assisted milling
Authors: Razfar M R , Sarvi P , Zarchi M M Abootorabi
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the surface roughness in the ultrasonic-assisted milling (UAM) process of AISI 1020 steel. High-frequency and low-amplitude vibrations are imposed on the workpiece by a special fixture developed by the present authors. With different values of feed rate, depth of cut, and cutting speed, the surface roughnesses in both conventional milling (CM) and UAM are obtained. The curves of the surface roughnesses in CM and UAM seem to be similar; both increase with increasing feed rate and increasing cutting speed, but the value for ultrasonic cutting is smaller under the same conditions. In both CM and UAM, the depth of cut does not have a considerable effect on the surface roughness. Experimental data show that UAM improves the surface roughness in comparison with CM by 12.9 per cent on average. The effect of ultrasonic vibration on the surface roughness decreases for high values of the feed rate, cutting depth, and cutting speed in comparison with that for the corresponding low values.
Experimental investigations and optimization of ultrasonic assisted magnetic abrasive finishing process
Authors: Mulik R S , Pandey P M
Published: July 2011

In this work a new process, namely ultrasonic-assisted magnetic abrasive finishing (UAMAF), has been conceived. This technique integrates the use of ultrasonic vibrations and a magnetic abrasive finishing (MAF) process to finish surfaces to nanometre order within a short time span. This paper is focused on the development of the UAMAF setup. The performed experimental studies were planned using response surface methodology and the Taguchi method and change in surface roughness (Δ Ra) and material removal rate (MRR) were considered as the responses, respectively. The experimental results showed that the UAMAF process yielded better finishing characteristics compared to those obtained using the MAF process. The surface roughness value obtained by UAMAF were as low as 22 nm within 80 s on a hardened AISI 52100 steel workpiece. Analysis of experimental data showed that the percentage change in surface roughness (Δ Ra) was highly influenced by mesh number followed by percentage weight of abrasive, rotation speed of the electromagnet, and voltage. Weight of abrasives was found to be the most significant process parameter affecting the MRR. Optimum process parameters were also obtained to maximize Δ Ra at minimum MRR.
Elastic properties of polycaprolactone at small strains are significantly affected by strain rate and temperature
Authors: Kurniawan D , Nor F M , Lee H Y , Lim J Y
Published: July 2011

Tensile tests were conducted on polycaprolactone at various strain rates and temperatures. Focusing on the mechanical properties within only the small-strain elastic region, i.e. up to the inflection point in the stress–strain diagram, it was found that strain rate and temperature had significant effects on the polymer. This finding implies that the effects of strain rate and temperature on the elastic properties of polycaprolactone should be considered in the design and manufacture of rigidity-sensitive, load-bearing applications, including use as biomaterial for scaffolds in tissue engineering applications.
Rotating stall mechanism and stability control in the pump flows
Authors: Zhang Zh
Published: July 2011

Based on experimental measurements and flow dynamics analysis, the mechanism of flow separations in the pump flow has been investigated and revealed. The possible flow separation including the rotating stall in the vaned diffuser under the normal flow condition has been confirmed to be merely a diffuser effect and caused by the oversized expansion angle of the diffuser. The dynamics of the part load flow separation of both the stationary and the non-stationary character has been identified to be related to the induced flow circulation at the impeller inlet. The associated flow separation mechanism has been revealed with respect to the build-up of a flow dynamical barrier on the shroud side of the impeller. It exactly explains the coincidence of the flow separation at the impeller inlet and that at the impeller outlet. To quantify the onset of the flow separation, a hypothesis is established based on the revealed mechanism. This has been satisfactorily validated by tests with flow visualizations, pressure measurements and laser doppler anemometry applications. The method for stability control of the pump flows with effective suppression of the flow separation has also been presented.
Environmental changes in the highlands of the western Andean Cordillera, southern Peru, during the Holocene
Authors: Kuentz Adèle , Ledru Marie-Pierre , Thouret Jean-Claude
Published: July 2011

In the tropical Andes, impacts of both natural and anthropogenic disturbances have been detected over a period exceeding 4000 years. However, the history of the environment remains unknown in most Andean regions. To infer possible interactions between climate and humans, we analysed the pollen content of an 8.5 m deep peat core extracted from a peat bog located near the Nevado Coropuna volcano on the slope of the Western Cordillera in southern Peru (15°30S, 72°40W, 6380 m). Results showed that taxa of the upper Puna expanded when cooler and moister climatic conditions prevailed during a time period that includes the early and the mid Holocene (9700–5200 cal. yr BP). An increase in shrub pollen frequencies and a decrease in the Poaceae/Asteraceae ratio are attributed to a drier climate during the late Holocene (5200–3000 cal. yr BP). After 3000 cal. yr BP, the vegetation cover resembled that of today. Both archaeological and pollen data attest to the beginning of agriculture from 2200 cal. yr BP. Around 900 cal. yr BP, the vegetation cover suddenly changed, probably because of a colder and drier climate. Past societies continued their agricultural activities despite this abrupt change. Our results emphasize the specific geographical location of Nevado Coropuna astride the Western Cordillera and the western edge of the Altiplano, which is consequently subject to both Pacific and Atlantic influences.
Holocene environmental change and Neolithic rice agriculture in the lower Yangtze region of China: A review
Authors: Zong Y , Wang Z , Innes JB , Chen Z
Published: July 2011

In this paper, we summarize the Holocene environmental history of the lower Yangtze region, east China, based on the sedimentary records and microfossil diatom, pollen, fungal and charcoal data that were published in the past two decades. We then examine the linkage between changes in the coastal environment and the development of rice agriculture in the region, with reference to the available archaeological evidence and historical archives. Based on the sedimentary and archaeological evidence, we conclude that during the early Holocene sea-level movements and sedimentary processes significantly changed the region’s landscape from an open, brackish water environment to a largely enclosed, wetland system. This newly established freshwater marsh environment provided a habitat favourable to rice agriculture. The early Neolithic farmers took the opportunity presented to them and started rice cultivation in locations where freshwater wetland systems were established. During the middle Holocene, environmental conditions were largely stable, and the coastal wetlands evolved slowly. Environmental change was only a supportive player in the Neolithic cultural processes, because the Neolithic people were able to adapt to these changes and took advantages of the newly emerging marsh land for food collection and production. Around 4200 years ago, the prosperous Liangzhu society fell, but there is no evidence to suggest the fall was related to a significant environmental change. The coastal environment continued to evolve slowly during the late Holocene. But this period saw rapid technological development in irrigation and flood protection, and the environmental factor was reduced to background noise. Throughout the Holocene, the main strategy taken by the Neolithic people to cope with environmental change was migration to find better food sources. Along with this strategy was the development of technology in landscape management to ensure a more reliable food production in addition to food collection through hunting, gathering and fishing.
Clinical presentations and molecular basis of complement C1r deficiency in a male African–American patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wu YL , Brookshire BP , Verani RR , Arnett FC , Yu CY
Published: July 2011

Homozygous deficiencies of early components for complement activation are among the strongest genetic risk factors for human systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Eleven cases of C1r deficiency are documented but this is the first report on the molecular basis of C1r deficiency. The proband is an African–American male who developed SLE at 3 months of age. He had a discoid lupus rash and diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis. Serum complement analysis of the patient showed zero CH50 activity, undetectable C1r, and reduced levels of C1s, but highly elevated levels of complement C4, C2, and C1-inhibitor. The coding regions of the mutant C1R gene with 11 exons located at chromosome 12p13 were polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified and sequenced to completion. DNA sequencing revealed a homozygous C→T mutation at nucleotide-6392 in exon 10 of the C1R gene, resulting in a nonsense mutation from Arg-380 (R380X). The patient’s clinically normal mother was heterozygous for this mutation. A sequence-specific primer (SSP) PCR coupled with StuI-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was developed to detect the novel mutation. Screening of 209 African–American SLE patients suggested that the R380X mutation is a rare causal variant. Mutations leading to early complement component deficiencies in SLE are mostly private variants with large effects.
Rituximab induces a rapid and sustained remission in Colombian patients with severe and refractory systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Pinto LF , Velásquez CJ , Prieto C , Mestra L , Forero E , Márquez JD
Published: July 2011

Despite aggressive treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with high-dose glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents, a significant proportion of patients persist with activity or relapse. Although the results from randomized studies showed no beneficial effects of rituximab (RTX) in SLE, this treatment has proven promising results in open label trials including patients with severe and refractory disease. We report a prospective cohort of 42Colombian patients with severe and refractory SLE treated with RTX after failure response to glucocorticoids and, at least, another immunosuppressive drug. We observed a reduction in steroid requirement [47.4 mg/day at 24 months ( p < 0.001)]. Since the first three-month follow-up, 28% and 36% of the patients fulfilled criteria of complete or partial remission according to proteinuria, and 12.5% and 33% according to creatinine clearance, respectively. These response criteria remained at 12 months. Both neuropsychiatric and hematological sub-groups had a favorable clinical response. The median reinfusion-free survival time was 44months (95% confidence interval: 10.1–50.1) and 80% of the patients did not require RTX reinfusion. Eleven adverse events were reported in 28 subjects. Most of these occurred during the first three-month follow-up, time during which patients were exposed to high-dose glucocorticoids.
Predictors of Postschool Employment Outcomes for Young Adults With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Carter Erik W. , Austin Diane , Trainor Audrey A.
Published: July 2011

Although entry into the world of work is a prominent marker of postschool success in the United States, students with severe disabilities often leave high school without the skills, experiences, and supports that lead to meaningful employment. The authors examined the extent to which an array of student, family, and school factors was associated with employment during the 2 years following high school. Having held a paid, community-based job while still in high school was strongly correlated with postschool employment success. In addition, being male and having more independence in self-care, higher social skills, more household responsibilities during adolescence, and higher parent expectations related to future work were all associated with increased odds of employment after school for young adults with severe disabilities. Implications for transition policy and practice are presented along with recommendations for future research addressing the career development of youth with intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities, and autism.
Unrelieved Pain and Suffering in Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Mori Masanori , Elsayem Ahmed , Reddy Suresh K. , Bruera Eduardo , Fadul Nada A.
Published: July 2011

Even with specialist-level palliative care, cancer pain can be difficult to treat especially when the pain is complicated by profound suffering. It is paramount to consider not only the patients’ biochemical factors but also their psychosocial and spiritual/existential influences. A multidimensional approach with knowledge of the risk factors for poor pain control is important to prevent, detect, and manage risk factors for intractable pain, including psychosocial distress, addictive behavior, and delirium in patients with terminal cancer. We present 3 cases of patients with advanced cancer with intractable bone pain whose hospital courses were complicated by severe psychosocial distress and delirium. We also propose an algorithm of multidimensional approach to unrelieved pain and suffering in patients with advanced cancer.
A Revised Interpersonal Circumplex Inventory of Children’s Social Goals
Authors: Trucco Elisa M. , Wright Aidan G. C. , Colder Craig R.
Published: July 2011

Motivational factors such as social goals are important features of developing social adjustment, and thus researchers studying social adjustment need psychometrically sound measures of social goals. A valid measure of social goals for English-speaking youth is lacking. Such a measure would increase understanding of children’s social adjustment and allow for testing developmental models of social goals and interpersonal functioning. The authors’ aim was to revise the Interpersonal Goals Inventory for Children (IGI-C) for an English-speaking sample and examine its validity. The revised IGI-C (IGI-CR) fit a circumplex model and performed as expected with most external criterion variables examined. In addition, some differences were observed across males and females, offering insights into gender differences in social goals. Results support the IGI-CR as a sound measure.
Both Self-Report and Interview-Based Measures of Psychopathy Predict Attention Abnormalities in Criminal Offenders
Authors: Zeier Joshua D. , Newman Joseph P.
Published: July 2011

Historically, psychopathy has been viewed as a clinical syndrome with a unitary etiology, assessed via clinical interview. However, factor analytic studies suggest that psychopathy may also be understood as a combination of two subfactors consisting of (a) interpersonal-affective and (b) lifestyle-antisocial traits. Furthermore, evidence supports the use of self-report measures to assess psychopathy and these subfactors. This investigation employed a Stroop-like task to determine the relationship of the two psychopathy factors, as assessed by both interview-based and self-report measures, to attention-related abnormalities in psychopathy. For both instruments, the factors interacted to predict performance (i.e., interference), though the unique main effects were nonsignificant. The results suggest that the anomalous selective attention of psychopathic offenders is specific to individuals with high scores on both factors. Moreover, these results have important implications for the two-factor model of psychopathy and provide preliminary support for the functional similarity of self-report and interview-based measures of psychopathy.
Changes in Patient Measures as Predictors of Therapists’ Ratings of Treatment Collaboration and Change in Eating Disorder Subgroups
Authors: Rothschild-Yakar Lily , Lacoua Liza , Stein Daniel
Published: July 2011

This study examined how implicit and explicit changes following integrative inpatient treatment of adolescents with eating disorder (ED) may predict the posttreatment ratings of psychodynamic therapists of their patients’ openness to therapeutic processes and their change (Therapist Evaluation Inventory). The relative contribution of inpatients’ ego functions was compared with that of their mental distress and ED symptoms in two subgroups: restricting type anorexia (AN-R) and binging/purging type EDs (B/P). Data indicated that the implicit personality variable of elevated ability to modulate affects was the best predictor of therapist-rated global outcome among patients with B/P symptoms, whereas in patients with AN-R, evolving openness to implicit negative affects and a reduction in reported distress were best predictors. In patients with AN-R, attenuated affect control was also significantly correlated with therapist posttreatment ratings. These data point that in addition to addressing behavioral/symptomatic aspects, personality variables should be addressed in the psychological treatment of EDs.
Aced Out
Authors: Ceglowski Deborah , Bacigalupa Chiara , Peck Emery
Published: July 2011

In this manuscript, we examine three layers of censorship related to the publication of qualitative research studies: (a) the global level of federal legislation and the definition of the “gold standard” of educational research, (b) the decline in the number of qualitative studies published in a top-tiered early childhood educational research journal after implementation of the Reading Excellence Act and No Child Left Behind, and (c) a local story of our experience in submitting a qualitative study for review. In the final section, we discuss the implications of these three levels of censorship.
The Treloar–Kearsley problem for elastomeric materials undergoing time-dependent microstructural evolution: Branching of extensional creep histories
Authors: Wineman Alan
Published: July 2011

Treloar carried out experiments on square rubber sheets that were loaded by equal in-plane forces along their edges. Kearsley observed from Treloar’s data that the deformations were equal biaxial extensions for smaller forces, but became unequal biaxial extensions beyond a larger force. By means of a simple non-linear elasticity problem, Kearsley showed that the governing equations had multiple solutions that allowed for bifurcation from an equal biaxial to an unequal biaxial deformation.

The present work considers this bifurcation phenomenon if Treloar’s experiments were to be carried out in the temperature range, say, of 100–150°C. Tobolsky showed that rubber in this temperature range undergoes microstructural evolution attributed to a chemical process of scission and crosslinking of macromolecular junctions. When loaded by equal in-plane forces along its edges, the rubber sheet can be expected to undergo equal biaxial extensional creep. The possibility is considered that there may be a time when the equal biaxial extensional creep history branches (bifurcates) into an unequal biaxial extensional creep history.

Kearsley’s analysis is revisited using a constitutive theory developed for rubber undergoing thermally induced microstructural changes. It is assumed that there is a time when the equal biaxial extension history branches into an unequal biaxial extension history. A branching condition for determining this time is established. A numerical example shows the existence of a branching time and the subsequent branching of an equal biaxial extension history into an unequal biaxial extension history. After branching, the governing equations allow both equal biaxial and unequal biaxial extension histories. It is assumed that the sheet follows the deformation history that maximizes the rate of dissipation, which turns out to be the unequal biaxial extension history.
Maternal Coping during Early Motherhood among First-time Chinese Mothers
Authors: Ngai Fei-Wan , Chan Sally Wai-Chi , Holroyd Eleanor
Published: July 2011

This qualitative study explored the coping strategies used by first-time Hong Kong Chinese mothers in adjusting to the demands of early motherhood. A purposive sample of 26 first-time Chinese mothers who had participated in a childbirth psycho-education program was interviewed in-depth at six weeks postpartum in respect to their coping strategies. Two main categories emerged: making personalized and achievable decisions and seeking emotional and spiritual solace. Implications for health professionals are discussed, including the need to support individual women’s personal resources and foster social networks to optimize maternal and infant health.
Acts of Activism ↔ Politics of Possibility
Authors: Giardina Michael D. , Denzin Norman K.
Published: July 2011

This article examines the context of political life in the United States during the Barack Obama administration, especially as related to right-wing assaults on a progressive political agenda. It also presents an argument for a new performative cultural politics; that is, an interventionist project informed by and committed to acts of activism in the pursuit of a politics of possibility. It concludes by outlining the prevailing lines of inquiry organizing such a project of the critical imagination: that of theory, politics, and performance.
Race Is *Not* an Additive
Authors: Weems Mary E.
Published: July 2011

Continuing Laurel Richardson’s call to use writing as my method (1994, 2000) Race is ‘not’ an additive uses the African American woman author’s experience during a visit to a lynching memorial to frame a discussion about racism in the United States, including whether or not this country is post-racial since the election of President Barack Obama.
Glitazones for human nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Pais Raluca , Moraru Ioana , Ratziu Vlad
Published: July 2011

The rationale for specific pharmacologic therapy in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is determined by the potential for disease progression and the difficulties, in many patients, of successfully implementing diet and lifestyle changes over the long term. Owing to their ability to correct insulin resistance, insulin-sensitizing agents are attractive candidates for the treatment of NASH. In this review we provide an insight into the mechanism of action, therapeutic efficacy and safety issues regarding the use of glitazones in NASH.
Current status of novel antifibrotic therapies in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Cohen-Naftaly Michal , Friedman Scott L.
Published: July 2011

Fibrosis accumulation is a dynamic process resulting from a wound-healing response to acute or chronic liver injury of all causes. The cascade starts with hepatocyte necrosis and apoptosis, which instigate inflammatory signaling by chemokines and cytokines, recruitment of immune cell populations, and activation of fibrogenic cells, culminating in the deposition of extracellular matrix. These key elements, along with pathways of transcriptional and epigenetic regulation, represent fertile therapeutic targets. New therapies include drugs specifically designed as antifibrotics, as well as drugs already available with well-established safety profiles, whose mechanism of action may also be antifibrotic. At the same time, the development of noninvasive fibrogenic markers, and techniques (e.g. fibroscan), as well as combined scoring systems incorporating serum and clinical features will allow improved assessment of therapy response. In aggregate, the advances in the elucidation of the biology of fibrosis, combined with improved technologies for assessment will provide a comprehensive framework for design of antifibrotics and their analysis in well-designed clinical trials. These efforts may ultimately yield success in halting the progression of, or reversing, liver fibrosis.
Spontaneous and evolutionary changes in the antibiotic resistance of Burkholderia cenocepacia observed by global gene expression analysis
Authors: Sass Andrea , Marchbank Angela , Tullis Elizabeth , LiPuma John J , Mahenthiralingam Eshwar
Published: July 2011

Background

Burkholderia cenocepacia is a member of the Burkholderia cepacia complex group of bacteria that cause infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. B. cenocepacia isolate J2315 has been genome sequenced and is representative of a virulent, epidemic CF strain (ET12). Its genome encodes multiple antimicrobial resistance pathways and it is not known which of these is important for intrinsic or spontaneous resistance. To map these pathways, transcriptomic analysis was performed on: (i) strain J2315 exposed to sub-inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics and the antibiotic potentiator chlorpromazine, and (ii) on spontaneous mutants derived from J2315 and with increased resistance to the antibiotics amikacin, meropenem and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Two pan-resistant ET12 outbreak isolates recovered two decades after J2315 were also compared to identify naturally evolved gene expression changes.

Results

Spontaneous resistance in B. cenocepacia involved more gene expression changes and different subsets of genes than those provoked by exposure to sub inhibitory concentrations of each antibiotic. The phenotype and altered gene expression in the resistant mutants was also stable irrespective of the presence of the priming antibiotic. Both known and novel genes involved in efflux, antibiotic degradation/modification, membrane function, regulation and unknown functions were mapped. A novel role for the phenylacetic acid (PA) degradation pathway genes was identified in relation to spontaneous resistance to meropenem and glucose was found to repress their expression. Subsequently, 20 mM glucose was found to produce greater that 2-fold reductions in the MIC of multiple antibiotics against B. cenocepacia J2315. Mutation of an RND multidrug efflux pump locus (BCAM0925-27) and squalene-hopene cyclase gene (BCAS0167), both upregulated after chlorpromazine exposure, confirmed their role in resistance. The recently isolated outbreak isolates had altered the expression of multiple genes which mirrored changes seen in the antibiotic resistant mutants, corroborating the strategy used to model resistance. Mutation of an ABC transporter gene (BCAS0081) upregulated in both outbreak strains, confirmed its role in B. cenocepacia resistance.

Conclusions

Global mapping of the genetic pathways which mediate antibiotic resistance in B. cenocepacia has revealed that they are multifactorial, identified potential therapeutic targets and also demonstrated that putative catabolite repression of genes by glucose can improve antibiotic efficacy.
E7080, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor suppresses tumor cell migration and invasion
Authors: Glen Hilary , Mason Susan , Patel Hitesh , Macleod Kenneth , Brunton Valerie G
Published: July 2011

Background

E7080 is an orally active multi-targeted kinase inhibitor whose targets include vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) and platelet derived growth factor receptors (PDGFR). It has been shown to inhibit tumor angiogenesis by targeting endothelial cells. A number of the targets of E7080 are also expressed on tumor cells and here we have looked at the direct effects of E7080 on tumor cell behavior.

Methods

Using a panel of human tumor cell lines we determined the effect of E7080 on cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Inhibition of FGFR and PDGFR signaling in the cells was measured.

Results

E7080 had little effect on tumor cell proliferation. However, it blocked migration and invasion at concentrations that inhibited FGFR and PDGFR signaling. Knock-down of PDGFR-β in U2OS osteosarcoma cells also inhibited cell migration which, could not be further inhibited in the presence of E7080. Furthermore, E7080 could not inhibit the migration of a PDGFR negative cell line.

Conclusion

E7080 does not significantly affect tumor cell proliferation but can inhibit their migration and invasion at concentrations that both inhibit its known targets and are achievable clinically.
Measuring Outcome after Wrist Injury: Translation and Validation of the Swedish Version of the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE-Swe)
Authors: Mellstrand Navarro Cecilia , Ponzer Sari , Törnkvist Hans , Ahrengart Leif , Bergström Gunnar
Published: July 2011

Background

There is a need for outcome measurement instruments for evaluation of disability after trauma. The Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) is a self-administered region-specific outcome measuring instrument developed for use in evaluating disability and pain of the wrist. The aim of this study is to translate and to cross-culturally adapt the PRWE for use in a Swedish patient population. Moreover, we aim at investigating the PRWE in terms of validity, reliability and responsiveness.

Methods

We performed a translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the PRWE to Swedish (PRWE-Swe), utilising the process recommended by the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons. A total of 124 patients with an injury to the wrist were included in the study. They filled in the PRWE and the DASH questionnaires at two separate occasions.

Results

Reliability of the PRWE in terms of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.97) and test-retest stability (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.93) were excellent. Face validity and content validity were judged as good. Criterion validity assessed as the correlation between the PRWE and the DASH was also good (Spearman's rho = 0.9). Responsiveness measured by the standardized response mean (SRM) was good with an SRMPRWE of 1.29.

Conclusion

This Swedish version of the PRWE is a short and easily understood self-administered questionnaire with good validity, reliability, and responsiveness. Our results confirm that the PRWE is a valuable tool in evaluating the results after treatment of a wrist injury.
Over 95% of large-scale length uniformity in template-assisted electrodeposited nanowires by subzero-temperature electrodeposition
Authors: Shin Sangwoo , Kong Bo Hyun , Kim Beom Seok , Kim Kyung Min , Cho Hyung Koun , Cho Hyung Hee
Published: July 2011

In this work, we report highly uniform growth of template-assisted electrodeposited copper nanowires on a large area by lowering the deposition temperature down to subzero centigrade. Even with highly disordered commercial porous anodic aluminum oxide template and conventional potentiostatic electrodeposition, length uniformity over 95% can be achieved when the deposition temperature is lowered down to -2.4°C. Decreased diffusion coefficient and ion concentration gradient due to the lowered deposition temperature effectively reduces ion diffusion rate, thereby favors uniform nanowire growth. Moreover, by varying the deposition temperature, we show that also the pore nucleation and the crystallinity can be controlled.
Convergence theorem for finite family of lipschitzian demi-contractive semigroups
Authors: Ali Bashir , Ugwunnadi Godwin Chidi
Published: July 2011

Let E be a real Banach space and K be a nonempty, closed, and convex subset of E. Let "Equation missing" be a finite family of Lipschitzian demi-contractive semigroups of K, with sequences of bounded measurable functions L
i
: [0, ∞) → (0, ∞) and bounded functions λ
i
: [0, ∞) → (0, ∞), respectively, where "Equation missing", i = 1,2, ..., N. Strong convergence theorem for common fixed point for finite family "Equation missing" is proved in a real Banch space. As an application, a new convergence theorem for finite family of Lipschitzian demi-contractive maps is also proved.

Mathematics subject classification (2000) 47H09, 47J25
Differential gene expression analysis of in vitro duck hepatitis B virus infected primary duck hepatocyte cultures
Authors: Nair Sajith , Arathy Devaki S , Issac Aneesh , Sreekumar Easwaran
Published: July 2011

Background

The human hepatitis B virus (HBV), a member of the hepadna viridae, causes acute or chronic hepatitis B, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) infection, a dependable and reproducible model for hepadna viral studies, does not result in HCC unlike chronic HBV infection. Information on differential gene expression in DHBV infection might help to compare corresponding changes during HBV infection, and to delineate the reasons for this difference.

Findings

A subtractive hybridization cDNA library screening of in vitro DHBV infected, cultured primary duck hepatocytes (PDH) identified cDNAs of 42 up-regulated and 36 down-regulated genes coding for proteins associated with signal transduction, cellular respiration, transcription, translation, ubiquitin/proteasome pathway, apoptosis, and membrane and cytoskeletal organization. Those coding for both novel as well as previously reported proteins in HBV/DHBV infection were present in the library. An inverse modulation of the cDNAs of ten proteins, reported to play role in human HCC, such as that of Y-box binding protein1, Platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase isoform 1B, ribosomal protein L35a, Ferritin, α-enolase, Acid α-glucosidase and Caspase 3, copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), Filamin and Pyruvate dehydrogenase, was also observed in this in vitro study.

Conclusions

The present study identified cDNAs of a number of genes that are differentially modulated in in vitro DHBV infection of primary duck hepatocytes. Further correlation of this differential gene expression in in vivo infection models would be valuable to understand the little known aspects of the hepadnavirus biology.
Ventilator-induced lung injury: historical perspectives and clinical implications
Authors: de Prost Nicolas , Ricard Jean-Damien , Saumon Georges , Dreyfuss Didier
Published: July 2011

Mechanical ventilation can produce lung physiological and morphological alterations termed ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Early experimental studies demonstrated that the main determinant of VILI is lung end-inspiratory volume. The clinical relevance of these experimental findings received resounding confirmation with the results of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) Network study, which showed a 22% reduction in mortality in patients with the acute respiratory distress syndrome through a simple reduction in tidal volume. In contrast, the clinical relevance of low lung volume injury remains debated and the application of high positive end-expiratory pressure levels can contribute to lung overdistension and thus be deleterious. The significance of inflammatory alterations observed during VILI is debated and has not translated into clinical application. This review examines seminal experimental studies that led to our current understanding of VILI and contributed to the current recommendations in the respiratory support of ARDS patients.
Diagnostic accuracy of white cell count and C-reactive protein for assessing the severity of paediatric appendicitis
Authors: Siddique Khurram , Baruah Paramita , Bhandari Santosh , Mirza Shirin , Harinath Gandra
Published: July 2011

Objectives

Simple investigations like white cell count (WCC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) may help to improve the accuracy of diagnosis in paediatric appendicitis. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of WCC and CRP for the severity of acute appendicitis in children.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

This study was conducted on all children who underwent open appendectomy from January 2007 to December 2008 at a District General Hospital. Data regarding demographics, WCC, CRP, histology and postoperative complications were analysed.

Participants

All children who underwent open appendectomy during the study period.

Main outcome measures

Diagnostic accuracy of WCC and CRP for simple acute appendicitis and a perforated appendix.

Results

Out of 204 patients, 112 (54.9%) were girls. At surgery, appendix was grossly inflamed in 175 of which 32 had perforation. Histology revealed simple acute appendicitis in 135 (66.2%) and gangrenous appendicitis in 32 (15.7%). The rest were normal. The duration of symptoms, temperature, length of stay, WCC and CRP were significantly worse in the perforated group ( P value <0.05). Postoperative complications included wound infection ( n = 18), pelvic collection ( n = 5) and intestinal obstruction ( n = 6); and were more common among patients with a perforated appendix ( P value <0.05). WCC had a higher diagnostic accuracy and higher sensitivity than CRP in diagnosing simple acute appendicitis. The combined sensitivity of WCC and CRP increased to 95% and 100% for the diagnosis of simple acute appendicitis and a perforated appendix, respectively.

Conclusion

Accuracy of WCC is higherthan CRP for diagnosing simple acute appendicitis. The combined sensitivity of WCC and CRP increases for simple acute appendicitis as well as a perforated appendix.
l-Arginine is essential for pancreatic β-cell functional integrity, metabolism and defense from inflammatory challenge
Authors: Krause Mauricio S , McClenaghan Neville H , Flatt Peter R , Homem de Bittencourt Paulo I , Murphy Colin , Newsholme Philip
Published: July 2011

In this work, our aim was to determine whetherl-arginine (a known insulinotropic amino acid) can promote a shift of β-cell intermediary metabolism favoring glutathione (GSH) and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) antioxidant responses, stimulus–secretion coupling and functional integrity. Clonal BRIN-BD11 β-cells and mouse islets were cultured for 24 h at variousl-arginine concentrations (0–1.15 mmol/l) in the absence or presence of a proinflammatory cytokine cocktail (interleukin 1β, tumour necrosis factor α and interferon γ). Cells were assessed for viability, insulin secretion, GSH, GSSG, glutamate, nitric oxide (NO), superoxide, urea, lactate and for the consumption of glucose and glutamine. Protein levels of NO synthase-2, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) were also evaluated. We found thatl-arginine at 1.15 mmol/l attenuated the loss of β-cell viability observed in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines.l-Arginine increased total cellular GSH and glutamate levels but reduced the GSSG/GSH ratio and glutamate release. The amino acid stimulated glucose consumption in the presence of cytokines while also stimulating AMPK phosphorylation and HSP72 expression. Proinflammatory cytokines reduced, by at least 50%, chronic (24 h) insulin secretion, an effect partially attenuated byl-arginine. Acute insulin secretion was robustly stimulated byl-arginine but this effect was abolished in the presence of cytokines. We conclude thatl-arginine can stimulate β-cell insulin secretion, antioxidant and protective responses, enabling increased functional integrity of β-cells and islets in the presence of proinflammatory cytokines. Glucose consumption and intermediary metabolism were increased byl-arginine. These results highlight the importance ofl-arginine availability for β-cells during inflammatory challenge.