bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Implantation of VX-2 Carcinoma: A New Rabbit Bone Model Using a Three-Dimensional Matrix as a Carrier for the Tumor Cells
Authors: Proschek D. , Tonak M. , Kafchitsas K. , Zangos S. , Mack M.G. , Theisen A. , Kurth A.A.
Published: September 2011

Background: Animal bone models are inevitable for musculoskeletal research. The induction of a local bone tumor is complex and time consuming. In this study a new model is presented using a direct implantation of tumor cells into the bone without a preliminary passaging of the cells. Methods: A three-dimensional matrix consisting of alginate spheroids and carrying the VX-2 tumor suspension was used for implantation into the bone of 6 female New Zealand white rabbits. X-ray imaging, CT and MRI scans as well as a histological examination were carried out. Results: All rabbits developed local bone tumor in the metaphysis of the femoral leg. Bone tumor was identifiable on average 6.2 weeks after implantation. Fluoroscopy, CT and MRI scans showed a cortical reaction but no destruction of the compact bone together with a mean tumor size of 14 mm. Histological examination revealed a tumor infiltration with an activation of osteoclasts and an osteoclastic resorption. Conclusion: The direct implantation of a VX-2 tumor suspension into the rabbit bone using alginate spheroids is an effective and reproducible way to successfully induce bone tumor. This new animal model allows further examination of surgical and minimal invasive therapy in musculoskeletal research.
The Biologics Anakinra and Etanercept Prevent Cytokine-Induced Growth Retardation in Cultured Fetal Rat Metatarsal Bones
Authors: Fernandez-Vojvodich Paola , Karimian Elham , Sävendahl Lars
Published: September 2011

Background/Aims: Chronic inflammation during childhood often leads to impaired bone growth and reduced adult height. Proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α synergistically impair bone growth in vitro. We hypothesized that biologic agents may rescue bones from cytokine-induced growth impairment and that insulin growth factor (IGF)-I may potentiate such an effect. Methodology: Metatarsal bones from fetal Sprague-Dawley rats (19–20 days p.c.) were treated with IL-1β plus TNF-α, or the combination of these cytokines with anakinra (IL-1 receptor antagonist), etanercept (TNF-inhibitor) and/or IGF-I. The bones were measured and growth expressed as percent increase in bone length over the 7-day culture period. Results: When exposed to IL-1β plus TNF-α (10 + 10 ng/ml), bone growth was markedly suppressed (6.6 ± 1.4 vs. 50.6 ± 2.5% in control bones; p < 0.001). The growth of cytokine exposed bones (IL-1β plus TNF-α) was dose-dependently rescued by anakinra (0.05–500 µg/ml) or etanercept (0.5–500 µg/ml); at the highest concentrations, growth was similar as in control bones never exposed to cytokines. Also when combining IGF-I (100 ng/ml) and relatively low concentrations of anakinra (0.05 µg/ml) or etanercept (5 µg/ml), growth was rescued in an additive way. Conclusion: Etanercept and anakinra efficiently and dose-dependently prevent cytokine-induced bone growth impairment, and combination with IGF-I further improves bone growth.
A Novel Approach to the Study of Hypoxia-Ischemia-Induced Clinical and Subclinical Seizures in the Neonatal Rat
Authors: Cuaycong M. , Engel M. , Weinstein S.L. , Salmon E. , Perlman J.M. , Sunderam S. , Vannucci S.J.
Published: September 2011

Perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a major cause of acute mortality and chronic neurologic morbidity in infants and children. HIE is the most common cause of neonatal seizures, and seizure activity in neonates can be clinical, with both EEG and behavioral symptoms, subclinical with only EEG activity, or just behavioral. The accurate detection of these different seizure manifestations and the extent to which they differ in their effects on the neonatal brain continues to be a concern in neonatal medicine. Most experimental studies of the interaction between hypoxia-ischemia (HI) and seizures have utilized a chemical induction of seizures, which may be less clinically relevant. Here, we expanded our model of unilateral cerebral HI in the immature rat to include video EEG and electromyographic recording before, during and after HI in term-equivalent postnatal-day-12 rats. We observed that immature rats display both clinical and subclinical seizures during the period of HI, and that the total number of seizures and time to first seizure correlate with the extent of tissue damage. We also tested the feasibility of developing an automated seizure detection algorithm for the unbiased detection and characterization of the different types of seizure activity observed in this model.
The Oxford Classification of IgA Nephropathy: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Yau Timothy , Korbet Stephen M. , Schwartz Melvin M. , Cimbaluk David J.
Published: September 2011

Background/Aims: The Oxford classification of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) assesses the presence of mesangial hypercellularity ≧50% (M1 vs. 0), endocapillary proliferation (E1 vs. 0), segmental glomerulosclerosis (S1 vs. 0), tubular atrophy/interstitial fibrosis >25 or 50% (T1 or 2 vs. 0), and has been reported as having prognostic value. We studied the clinical significance of the classification in our adult patients with IgAN. Methods: Retrospective study of 54 patients with biopsy-proven IgAN seen from 1983 to 2009. The correlation between the Oxford classification and baseline renal function was assessed. The primary endpoint was a 50% reduction in eGFR or end-stage renal disease. Predictors for progression to the endpoint were determined by multivariate analyses. Results: Patients were 41 ± 15 years of age with a serum creatinine of 1.5 ± 0.8 mg/dl, eGFR of 61 ± 24 ml/min/1.73 m2, and proteinuria of 2.0 ± 1.6 g/day. Oxford classifications were as follows: M1 = 72%, E1 = 20%, S1 = 81%, and T1 = 13%/T2 = 22%. During the follow-up of 5.8 ± 4.8 years, 19% of patients reached the primary endpoint. While the Oxford classification was associated with progressive renal disease, only the T score (T0, T1, T2) was predictive of outcome with 6, 29, and 50% of patients (p = 0.002) reaching the primary endpoint. The 10-year renal survival for T0, T1, and T2 was 100, 50, and 17%, respectively (p < 0.001). By multivariate analysis, the hazard ratio for reaching the primary endpoint was 32 for patients with T ≧1 versus T0 (p = 0.01). Conclusions: In our experience, the Oxford classification predicts progressive renal disease, but the degree of tubulointerstitial fibrosis was the only feature independently predictive of outcome.
Vascular Response to Zotarolimus-Coated Balloons in Injured Superficial Femoral Arteries of the Familial Hypercholesterolemic Swine
Authors: Granada Juan F. , Milewski Krzysztof , Zhao Hugh , Stankus John J. , Tellez Armando , Aboodi Michael S. , Kaluza Greg L. , Krueger Christian G. , Virmani Renu , Schwartz Lewis B. , Nikanorov Alexander
Published: September 2011

Background—

Drug-coated balloons are rapidly emerging as a therapeutic alternative for the interventional treatment of peripheral vascular disease. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that an angioplasty balloon coated with the mTOR inhibitor zotarolimus (ZCB) would inhibit neointimal hyperplasia in a novel injury-based superficial femoral artery model in the familial hypercholesterolemic swine.

Methods and Results—

A total of 44 familial hypercholesterolemic swine were included (12 designated to study tissue pharmacokinetics and 32 to study safety and efficacy). Fogarty balloon denudation was performed in all superficial femoral artery segments, followed by balloon angioplasty. In the pharmacokinetic study, a total of 24 ZCBs (300 μg/cm
2
) were used. Zotarolimus was detected in arterial tissue at 5 minutes (162 ng/mg of tissue), 24 hours (5.9 ng/mg of tissue), and 28 days (0.007 ng/mg of tissue) after ZCB inflation. In the safety and efficacy study, superficial femoral artery segments were randomized to either high-dose (600 μg/cm
2
, n=16), low-dose (300 μg/cm
2
, n=16), or paired uncoated balloons (high-dose ZCB control, n=16; low-dose ZCB control, n=16). At 28 days, the percentage of angiographic stenosis was similar among all tested groups. Histological analysis demonstrated a reduction in neointimal formation in both ZCB groups compared with controls (high-dose ZCB 44% reduction,
P
=0.007; low-dose ZCB 22% reduction,
P
=0.08). There was no evidence of delayed arterial healing or vascular toxicity in any of the ZCB groups.

Conclusions—

The single delivery of zotarolimus via coated balloon is feasible, and therapeutic levels are maintained up to 28 days. The ZCB technology appears to be effective in the reduction of neointimal proliferation in the superficial femoral artery of the familial hypercholesterolemic swine.
Upregulation of Heme Oxygenase 1 by Hemin Impairs Endothelium-Dependent Contractions in the Aorta of the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
Authors: Li Zhuoming , Wang Yu , Vanhoutte Paul M.
Published: September 2011

Heme oxygenase converts heme to carbon monoxide, biliverdin (subsequently converted to bilirubin), and free iron. Pharmacological induction of heme oxygenase 1 has an antihypertensive effect in the spontaneously hypertensive rat. The present study investigated whether upregulation of heme oxygenase 1 by hemin reduces endothelial dysfunction in this animal. Thirty-six-week–old rats were divided into a hemin treatment (50 mg/kg, IP injection, once) and a control group. Aortas were isolated for the measurement of isometric tension, production of reactive oxygen species, and heme oxygenase activity, as well as gene and protein expressions. Hemin treatment augmented the expression and activity of heme oxygenase 1. This in vivo induction of heme oxygenase 1, but not in vitro incubation with the heme oxygenase products carbon monoxide or bilirubin, led to an improvement of endothelial function in that acetylcholine-induced relaxations were potentiated and acetylcholine- and calcium ionophore-induced contractions were attenuated. Free radical production was suppressed by hemin treatment, judging from the results of 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluoresein diacetate staining, dihydroethidium staining, and lucigenin chemiluminescence, which was explained by the decreased expressions of NADPH oxidase 2 and cyclooxygenase 1. The production of prostacyclin was decreased by heme oxygenase 1 induction, which was explained by a lower expression of cyclooxygenase 1. Contractions to vasoconstrictor concentrations of prostacyclin and its mimetic iloprost were attenuated, suggesting that the responsiveness of thromboxane-prostanoid receptors to prostacyclin was decreased in hemin-treated rats. The suppressed production of free radicals and prostacyclin and the decrease of thromboxane-prostanoid receptors sensitivity concur to explain the impairment of endothelium-dependent contractions caused by heme oxygenase 1 induction by hemin.
A Scaling Approach to Probabilistic Assessment of Regional Climate Change
Authors: Frieler Katja , Meinshausen Malte , Mengel Matthias , Braun Nadine , Hare William
Published: September 2011

A new approach to probabilistic projections of regional climate change is introduced. It builds on the already established quasi-linear relation between global-mean temperature and regional climate change found in atmosphere–ocean general circulation models (AOGCMs). The new approach simultaneously 1) takes correlations between temperature- and precipitation-related uncertainty distributions into account, 2) enables the inclusion of predictors other than global-mean temperature, and 3) checks for the interscenario and interrun variability of the scaling relationships. This study tests the effectiveness of SOx and black carbon emissions and greenhouse gas forcings as additional predictors of precipitation changes. The future precipitation response is found to deviate substantially from the linear relationship with global-mean temperature change in some regions; thereby, the two main limitations of a simple linear scaling approach, namely having to rely on exogenous aerosol experiments (or ignoring their regional effect), and ignoring changes in scaling coefficients when approaching equilibrium conditions, are addressed. The additional predictors can markedly improve the emulation of AOGCM simulations. In some regions, variations in hydrological sensitivity (the percentage change of precipitation per degree of warming) across different scenarios can be reduced by more than 50%. Coupled to probabilistic projections of global-mean temperatures and greenhouse gas forcings, bidimensional distributions of regional temperature and precipitation changes accounting for multiple uncertainties are derived. Based on 20 Fourth Assessment Report AOGCMs (AR4 AOGCMs), probabilistic projections are provided for two representative concentration pathway (RCP) scenarios and 31 world regions (online database at www.pik-potsdam.de/primap/regional_temp_and_precip ). As an example application of the projections for climate adaptation and vulnerability studies, future changes in the surface mass balance of the Greenland Ice Sheet are computed.
Misery Does Not Love Company
Authors: Schaefer David R. , Kornienko Olga , Fox Andrew M.
Published: September 2011

Conventional wisdom holds that friends protect against depression through the social support they provide; however, depression likely has a role in structuring friendship networks. In particular, we investigate friend selection mechanisms responsible for similarity in depression among friends (i.e., homophily). Preference is one explanation, yet several correlates of depression make homophilous selection among depressed individuals unlikely. We propose two alternative mechanisms—avoidance and withdrawal—that can produce depression homophily in the absence of preference. These alternative mechanisms create homophily indirectly by limiting friendship partners available to depressed individuals. We test the preference, avoidance, and withdrawal mechanisms using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and a dynamic network model. Results provide support for the withdrawal mechanism. These findings help explain how depression affects friend selection and have broader implications for understanding selection mechanisms responsible for network patterns such as homophily.
Comparison of Systematic Developmental Surveillance With Standardized Developmental Screening in Primary Care
Authors: Thomas Sherri Ann , Cotton William , Pan Xueling , Ratliff-Schaub Karen
Published: September 2011

Many physicians use surveillance questions to assess development; the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening at 9-, 18-, and 24-month health supervision visits (HSVs). There are no studies directly comparing surveillance with screening. The authors directly compared systematic surveillance with standardized screening using a cross-sectional observational study of children with no known delays. Surveillance questions were completed at each HSV. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) was administered following the 9-, 18-, or 24-month HSV. The authors compared detection of delays by surveillance with ASQ screening. Using surveillance, 11/95 subjects were identified as delayed. Using the ASQ, 15/95 subjects scored fail; 28/95 scored monitor. Among the 11 delayed surveillance subjects, 5 scored fail on the ASQ and 5 scored monitor. Ten of the 15 subjects scoring fail on the ASQ were not identified by surveillance. The study’s findings support the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations for periodic formal screening in addition to continued surveillance.
Mental health professionals’ attitudes towards people with mental illness: Do they differ from attitudes held by people with mental illness?
Authors: Hansson Lars , Jormfeldt Henrika , Svedberg Petra , Svensson Bengt
Published: September 2011

Aims:

Studies investigating mental health professionals’ attitudes towards people with mental illness are scarce and there is a lack of comparative studies including both patients’ and mental health professionals’ attitudes. The aim of the present study was to investigate mental health staff’s attitudes towards people with mental illness and compare these with the attitudes of patients in contact with mental health services. A further aim was to relate staff attitudes to demographic and work characteristics.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was performed including 140 staff and 141 patients. The study included a random sample of outpatients in contact with mental health services in the southern part of Sweden and staff working in these services. Attitudes were investigated using a questionnaire covering beliefs of devaluation and discrimination of people with a mental illness.

Results:

Negative attitudes were prevalent among staff. Most negative attitudes concerned whether an employer would accept an application for work, willingness to date a person who had been hospitalized, and hiring a patient to take care of children. Staff treating patients with a psychosis or working in inpatient settings had the most negative attitudes. Patient attitudes were overall similar to staff attitudes and there were significant differences in only three out of 12 dimensions. Patients’ most negative attitudes were in the same area as the staff’s.

Conclusions:

This study points to the suggestion that mental health care staff may hold negative attitudes and beliefs about people with mental illness with tentative implications for treatment of the patient and development and implementation of evidence-based services. Since patients and staff in most respects share these beliefs, it is essential to develop interventions that have an impact on both patients and staff, enabling a more recovery-oriented staff–patient relationship.
The Impact of Media Information on Issue Salience Following Other Organizations’ Failures
Authors: Desai Vinit M.
Published: September 2011

Research on organizational decision making seeks to understand how external events shape how organizational decision makers attend to particular issues and allocate scarce resources across the organization’s activities. The author investigates whether supplemental information available to decision makers about their own and other organizations impacts this process. He finds that media coverage about particular issues following failures throughout the field can influence decisions regarding resource allocation and that coverage about other organizations may in some cases be more influential than coverage about the focal firm. The study and its findings forward our understanding regarding how organizations scan their environments and how multiple, interacting forms of external information may collectively influence internal organizational processes.
Effect of Silymarin in the Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Bakhshaee Mehdi , Jabbari Farahzad , Hoseini Saeed , Farid Reza , Sadeghian Mohammad Hadi , Rajati Mohsen , Mohamadpoor Amir Houshang , Movahhed Rahman , Zamani Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2011

Objective

Although the role of oxidative stresses has been confirmed in the pathophysiology of allergic rhinitis and the protective effect of silymarin against oxidative stresses has been proven in different organs, no study has yet been conducted on the impact of silymarin on allergic rhinitis treatment.

Study Design

A randomized clinical trial study.

Setting

Two tertiary referral centers with otorhinolaryngology–head and neck surgery and allergy and immunology departments.

Patients and Methods

In a randomized clinical trial, 94 patients with the signs and symptoms of allergic rhinitis and a positive skin prick test were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups. Their signs and symptoms, eosinophil percentage on nasal smear, serum IgE, and interleukin (IL‐4, IL‐5, interferon‐γ) levels were recorded. The study group was treated with silymarin, whereas the control group received placebo, both for 1 month, along with routine antihistamine treatment. At the end of the treatment course, clinical and laboratory findings were statistically analyzed.

Results

Sixty patients completed the trial. Based on the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test 20 (SNOT‐20), a significant improvement in clinical symptom severity was observed in both groups (9.23 ± 5.14 vs 2.20 ± 2.69; P <. 001), which was statistically significantly higher in the study group (P <. 001). Posttreatment percentage of nasal eosinophils and cytokine levels showed no significant difference (P >. 05). Rise in serum IgE level was seen after treatment with silymarin (P =. 003).

Conclusion

Considering the statistically effective role of silymarin in alleviating the severity of allergic rhinitis symptoms, applying this herbal antioxidant along with other medications may result in better management.
How do “earworms” start? Classifying the everyday circumstances of Involuntary Musical Imagery
Authors: Williamson Victoria J. , Jilka Sagar R. , Fry Joshua , Finkel Sebastian , Müllensiefen Daniel , Stewart Lauren
Published: September 2011

Involuntary Musical Imagery (INMI) or “earworms” describes the experience whereby a tune comes into the mind and repeats without conscious control. The present article uses an inductive, generative, grounded theory-based qualitative analysis to classify reports of everyday INMI circumstances, and creates graphical models that determine their relative frequency within two population samples; listeners to the BBC radio station 6 Music and an online survey. Within the two models, four abstract categories were defined that described the characteristics of the circumstances surrounding the onset of INMI episodes; Music exposure, Memory triggers, Affective states, and Low attention states respectively. We also note the variety of musical media by which exposure to a tune results in an INMI episode and discuss the impact of musical engagement on INMI experiences. The findings of the present study are considered within a framework of involuntary retrieval theory from both the autobiographical and semantic memory literatures. In addition, the results highlight the potential facilitative effects of varying affective and attentional states on INMI episodes.
Cartilage Injury After Acute, Isolated Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear
Authors: Potter Hollis G. , Jain Sapna K. , Ma Yan , Black Brandon R. , Fung Sebastian , Lyman Stephen
Published: September 2011

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears have been implicated in the development of osteoarthritis. Limited data exist on longitudinal follow-up of isolated ACL injury.

Hypotheses: All isolated ACL tears are associated with some degree of cartilage injury that will deteriorate over time. There is a threshold of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–detectable cartilage injury that will correlate with adverse change in subjective patient-reported outcome measures.

Study Design: Cohort study, Level of evidence, 2.

Methods: The authors conducted a prospective, observational analysis of 42 knees in 40 patients with acute, isolated ACL injury (14 treated nonoperatively, 28 by reconstruction) with imaging at the time of injury and yearly follow-up for a maximum of 11 years. Morphologic MRI and quantitative T2 mapping was performed with validated outcome measures.

Results: All patients sustained chondral damage at initial injury. The adjusted risk of cartilage loss doubled from year 1 for the lateral compartment and medial femoral condyle (MFC) and tripled for the patella. By years 7 to 11, the risk for the lateral femoral condyle was 50 times baseline, 30 times for the patella, and 19 times for the MFC. There was increased risk of cartilage degeneration over the medial tibial plateau (MTP) ( P = .047; odds ratio = 6.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-37.90) and patella ( P = .032; odds ratio = 4.88; 95% CI, 1.14-20.80) in nonsurgical patients compared with surgically treated patients. Size of the bone-marrow edema pattern was associated with cartilage degeneration from baseline to year 3 ( P = .001 to .039). Each increase in the MFC Outerbridge score resulted in a 13-point decrease in the International Knee Documentation Committee subjective knee score ( P = .0002). Each increase in the MTP resulted in a 2.4-point decrease in the activity rating scale ( P = .002).

Conclusion: All patients with acute, traumatic ACL disruption sustained a chondral injury at the time of initial impact with subsequent longitudinal chondral degradation in compartments unaffected by the initial “bone bruise,” a process that is accelerated at 5 to 7 years’ follow-up.
The Fetal Cerebellum
Authors: Garel Catherine , Fallet-Bianco Catherine , Guibaud Laurent
Published: September 2011

The cerebellum undergoes a protracted development, making it particularly vulnerable to a broad spectrum of developmental events. Acquired destructive and hemorrhagic insults may also occur. The main steps of cerebellar development are reviewed. The normal imaging patterns of the cerebellum in prenatal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are described with emphasis on the limitations of these modalities. Because of confusion in the literature regarding the terminology used for cerebellar malformations, some terms (agenesis, hypoplasia, dysplasia, and atrophy) are clarified. Three main pathologic settings are considered and the main diagnoses that can be suggested are described: retrocerebellar fluid enlargement with normal or abnormal biometry (Dandy-Walker malformation, Blake pouch cyst, vermian agenesis), partially or globally decreased cerebellar biometry (cerebellar hypoplasia, agenesis, rhombencephalosynapsis, ischemic and/or hemorrhagic damage), partially or globally abnormal cerebellar echogenicity (ischemic and/or hemorrhagic damage, cerebellar dysplasia, capillary telangiectasia). The appropriate timing for performing MRI is also discussed.
The Natural History of Infant Spinal Muscular Atrophy in China
Authors: Ge Xiushan , Bai Jinli , Lu Yanyu , Qu Yujin , Song Fang
Published: September 2011

The authors retrospectively studied the natural history of 237 patients with infantile spinal muscular atrophy in China. The onset ages (mean ± SD) for types I to III were 3.1 ± 2.7, 8.7 ± 3.8, and 21.1 ± 11.7 months, respectively. The survival probabilities for type I patients at 1, 2, and 5 years were 44.9%, 38.1%, and 29.3%, respectively, and for type II patients, the probabilities were 100%, 100%, and 97%, respectively. All type III patients were alive. Type I patients with onset age after 2 months had significantly increased survival than those with onset before 2 months ( P < .05). It should be noticed that survival probability at 2 years in type I patients in our study was close to that in other Asian samples of spinal muscular atrophy, but slightly better than that among whites. Patients accepted minimal proactive interventions other than antibiotics for pulmonary infection, so our study provides reliable baseline data of natural history of spinal muscular atrophy in China.
Investigations for a model reduction technique of fluid–structure coupled systems
Authors: Ben Smida B , Majed R , Bouhaddi N , Ouisse M
Published: September 2011

In this paper, a methodology for coupled fluid–structure model reduction is proposed. The overall objective of the method is to reduce the numerical computational costs without affecting the accuracy level of the prediction. This methodology is organized according to the three following steps. In the first step, this method uses a reliable criterion for selecting the number of the kept modes for the fluid and the structure in vacuo subsystems. In the second step, this basis will be enriched through static residual responses taking into account the fluid–structure coupling effects. These responses are selected according to an energetic criterion. Finally, the enriched basis is extended by introducing some residual static responses due to the error forces considered as structural modifications forces.

In the context of the finite element method (FEM), the performances of the proposed method are established through a comparative study with other strategies that are proposed in the literature. Thus, the computational cost (CPU time) and the accuracies of the different methods are discussed and compared with a reference method. The validation of the proposed method and the comparative study are performed through two numerical simulation examples. The first one concerns a parallelepiped acoustic cavity with a simply supported plate. The method can handle both weak and strong couplings; as illustrated in the examples. The second one consists of a pipe with a strong coupling and a larger model size.
Nonlinear free vibration analysis of annular sector plates using differential quadrature method
Authors: Hejripour F , Saidi A R
Published: September 2011

The nonlinear free vibration of isotropic annular sector plates is studied using differential quadrature method. The geometric nonlinearity is used into the strains and based on the first-order shear deformation plate theory, the nonlinear governing equations of motion are obtained. According to differential quadrature analogue, the equations of motion and boundary conditions are discretized. The harmonic balance method is used to obtain the eigenvalue system. The eigenvalue system is solved using an iterative solution. The obtained results are verified for fully clamped annular sector plates and the convergence of results is investigated for some boundary conditions. The effects of some parameters, such as thickness to outer radius ratio, inner to outer radius ratio and sector angle on the nonlinear to linear natural frequency ratio, are also studied. It is shown that the simply supported plate is more sensitive to the geometrical parameters than the fully clamped plate.
Research on pipeline elbow passing for in-pipe robot
Authors: Qiao J W , Shang J Z
Published: September 2011

In-pipe robots provide inspection and maintenance services to various pipelines. This article proposes an algorithm to calculate the required radial variations for in-pipe robots to pass through pipeline elbows smoothly. It first gives a full overview of a robot passing through a U-shaped elbow and identifies the problem location where the radial dimension changes the most. It then presents a detailed analysis on the focused stage and deduces the algorithm. Based on the obtained algorithm, a realizing Matlab program is written to calculate all possible lengths of front and rear legs at every moment during the process. Finally, the calculation results are presented to precisely describe the track of movement, the length deformations during the whole process, and different contributions of structural variables. This article provides the design and the control of an in-pipe robot with an algorithm to calculate the lengths of its legs at every moment and to what extent the deformations of elastic legs are required.
The effects of cyclophosphamide and mycophenolate on end-stage renal disease and death of lupus nephritis
Authors: Koo HS , Kim YC , Lee SW , Kim DK , Oh K-H , Joo KW , Kim YS , Ahn C , Han JS , Kim S , Chin HJ
Published: September 2011

Debate continues about the optimal treatment modality of lupus nephritis (LN). We compared the efficacy and safety of intravenous cyclophosphamide (CYC) and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) for LN treatment in Korea. After searching for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients diagnosed between 1998 and 2007 with the diagnostic code of ICD10, we selected the 71 patients who were treated with CYC or MMF without any other immunosuppressant except systemic steroid. Composite outcome was defined as progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and/or all-cause mortality. The initial manifestations of the CYC group were more severe than those of the MMF group. The mean daily MMF dose was 980 ± 100 mg for 21.67 ± 18.25 months. The mean monthly dose per CYC pulse therapy was 850 ± 30 mg for 17.04 ± 13.15 months. The incidence of composite outcome was 5/20 (25%) in the MMF group and 4/51 (7.8%) in the CYC group. The relative risk (RR) for composite outcome in the CYC group was 0.249 (95% CI for RR: 0.067–0.934, p = 0.039) compared with the MMF group with Cox's hazard proportional analysis. In Kaplan–Meier analysis, the probability of composite outcome was lower in the CYC group than in the MMF group (Log rank test p-value = 0.026). The results of this retrospective study suggest that intravenous CYC therapy may be more efficacious in averting ESRD and death than MMF. These results need to be confirmed in a larger randomized controlled trial.
The Detection of Feigned Disabilities
Authors: Rogers Richard , Gillard Nathan D. , Wooley Chelsea N. , Ross Colin A.
Published: September 2011

Research on feigned mental disorders indicates that severe psychopathology coupled with significant trauma histories often complicate feigning determinations, resulting in inaccuracies on otherwise effective measures. As part of malingering assessments, the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) is often used because of its excellent validation and the availability of three feigning indicators (Negative Impression, Malingering Index, and Rogers Discriminant Function), which have evidenced large effect sizes and clinically useful cut scores. The current study examined the effectiveness of the PAI in a traumatized inpatient sample using a between-subjects simulation design. Although Negative Impression appeared affected by trauma—especially in conjunction with dissociative symptoms—very positive results were found for Malingering Index and Rogers Discriminant Function. They remained relatively unelevated under honest conditions, despite posttraumatic stress disorder and extensive comorbidity. Using single-point cut scores provided moderately good classification of feigned and genuine PAI profiles. For purposes of classification, the authors operationally defined small indeterminate groups that were considered too close to classify (i.e., ±5T of the cut scores). With indeterminate cases removed, the overall classification rates improved modestly. However, the more important finding involved the error rates for the indeterminate group, which exceeded 50%. Directions for further research are discussed.
Optimization of thermal processing of canned mussels
Authors: Ansorena M.R. , Salvadori V.O.
Published: September 2011

The design and optimization of thermal processing of solid–liquid food mixtures, such as canned mussels, requires the knowledge of the thermal history at the slowest heating point. In general, this point does not coincide with the geometrical center of the can, and the results show that it is located along the axial axis at a height that depends on the brine content. In this study, a mathematical model for the prediction of the temperature at this point was developed using the discrete transfer function approach. Transfer function coefficients were experimentally obtained, and prediction equations fitted to consider other can dimensions and sampling interval. This model was coupled with an optimization routine in order to search for different retort temperature profiles to maximize a quality index. Both constant retort temperature (CRT) and variable retort temperature (VRT; discrete step-wise and exponential) were considered. In the CRT process, the optimal retort temperature was always between 134 °C and 137 °C, and high values of thiamine retention were achieved. A significant improvement in surface quality index was obtained for optimal VRT profiles compared to optimal CRT. The optimization procedure shown in this study produces results that justify its utilization in the industry.
The influence of water on the adsorption and the tribological properties of unsaturated fatty acids in alkane solution
Authors: Lundgren S M , Persson K , Clarke J , Nordstierna L , Claesson P M
Published: September 2011

The moisture uptake of the three unsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid has been investigated. The amount of water absorbed by the fatty acids increased with increasing degree of unsaturation. The influence of the water on the adsorption onto steel and lubricating properties of the fatty acid in hexadecane was investigated. The adsorption, as determined with quartz crystal microbalance of 0.1 and 1 wt% of oleic acid onto steel was not affected by the presence of water (1.5 mole% water in fatty acid) while 5.6 mole% water enhanced the adsorbed amount of linolenic acid. Even though this amount of water had a large influence on the adsorption of linolenic acid, it did not affect the friction and wear measured with high frequency reciprocating rig using oleic acid or linolenic acid in hexadecane.
Modelling and analysis of fretting wear in rough point contacts in partial slip conditions
Authors: Lehtovaara A , Lönnqvist C
Published: September 2011

A numerical model for the evaluation of fretting wear in rough point contact has been developed. The Ciavarella–Jäger principle was applied for solving the partial slip problem, wear was estimated with Archard’s wear model, and allowance is made for elastic–perfectly plastic material deformation. Surface profiles are updated with wear data in simulations. The effect of load parameters and different types of wavy surface profiles on wear behaviour are analysed and discussed. The tangential force divided by the product of the friction coefficient and the normal force dominates the wear process of surfaces, because, essentially, it controls the size of the slip and stick zones.
The role of CD8+ T cells in a model of multiple sclerosis induced with recombinant myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein
Authors: Sajic Marija , Gregson Norman , Linington Christopher , Hughes Richard AC , Smith Kenneth J
Published: September 2011

Background and objectives: Since CD8+ T cells may be important in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), we examined their role in the DA rat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model induced by immunization with recombinant myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (rMOG).

Methods: The inflammatory infiltrate in the spinal cord of affected animals was assessed by histology, electrophysiology and flow cytometry during the course of the disease (the first peak, remission and the second peak). The proportions of activated/memory effector (CD8+CD44+) and putative suppressor (CD8+CD28-, CD8+CD25high) CD8+ T cells in the draining lymph nodes were determined. To explore the role of CD8+ T cells, similar experiments were performed in CD8+ T cell depleted rats, before, during and after the first peak of the disease.

Results: Throughout the disease, both CD4+ T cells and macrophages/activated microglia outnumbered CD8+ T cells within the spinal cord. The number of putative suppressor CD8+ T cells increased significantly both during and after the first peak suggesting the induction of a regulatory CD8+ T-cell response. However, antibody-mediated depletion of CD8+ T cells before induction of the disease, or after the first peak, did not significantly alter the incidence, severity or course of rMOG-induced EAE.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that CD8+ T cells do not play a significant role in the pathogenesis or regulation of EAE induced by rMOG in DA rats. In this respect, rMOG-induced EAE is not an appropriate model for studying the role of CD8+ T cells in MS.
Sexual Behavior of HIV-Positive Women in Cameroon
Authors: Njabanou Noella M. , Atashili Julius , Mbanya Dora , Mbu Enow R. , Ikomey George M. , Kefie Charles A. , Kinge Thompson N. , Etogo Dorothee , Adimora Adaora A. , Ndumbe Peter M.
Published: September 2011

This study aimed at describing the sexual behavior of HIV-positive women in Cameroon. In a cross-sectional study, 282 HIV-infected women were enrolled in 3 HIV-treatment clinics in Cameroon. Of the 282 participants, 257 had been diagnosed with HIV for more than 6 months. Approximately half (46.8%) of these 257 women reported no sex partners in the 6 months before the study; 42.9% had 1 partner; and 1.5% had more than 1 partner. There was a significant decrease in the number of partners, new partners, and an increase in condom use with these partners following HIV diagnosis ( P value < .05). However, more than half (55.2%) of the sexually active participants reported inconsistent or no condom use during sexual intercourse. Although HIV-positive women tend to adopt less risky behavior after HIV diagnosis, a substantial proportion of sexually active ones still have risky behaviors. Reinforcing risk reduction programs for these women is imperative.
H-Reflex, Muscle Voluntary Activation Level, and Fatigue Index of Flexor Carpi Radialis in Individuals With Incomplete Cervical Cord Injury
Authors: Lin Kwan-Hwa , Chen Ying-Chen , Luh Jer-Junn , Wang Chun-Hou , Chang Ya-Ju
Published: September 2011

Background. Individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) are predisposed to muscle fatigue during voluntary exercise. However, the origin of fatigue is unclear. Objective. The authors examined the motoneuron excitability, muscle activation level, and fatigue properties of the flexor carpi radialis muscle, just below the level of injury. Methods. Nine individuals with chronic, incomplete cervical cord injury and 9 age-matched healthy individuals were recruited. The authors tested maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), motoneuron excitability by the maximum amplitude of the H-reflex (Hmax at C-7), and muscle voluntary activation level measured by the interpolated twitch technique. Subjects were fatigued by repetitive maximal voluntary isometric wrist flexion. General fatigue index (GFI), central fatigue index (CFI), and peripheral fatigue index (PFI) of flexor carpi radialis were examined before, during, and immediately after exercise. Results. The Hmax in the SCI group was significantly higher ( P = .0028) than in controls. The MVC ( P < .001) and voluntary activation level ( P = .016) in the SCI group were significantly lower. The GFI and CFI decreased in both the SCI and the non-SCI groups. The PFI in the SCI group was significantly higher (ie, less fatigue) than that in controls at 30 repetitive contractions. Conclusions. In individuals with incomplete SCI, the deficit in central drive is an important source of muscle weakness and fatigue in the muscle below the level of injury.
The movement of knowledge and benefit: the product of applied ethics and emotional intelligence to mental health research
Authors: Hurley John , Linsley Paul , MacLeod Sheena , Ramsay Michael
Published: September 2011

This paper seeks to highlight that researchers can generate the potential for benefit to all stakeholders within the research process through maintaining a wide understanding of ethical and emotionally intelligent behaviours. A range of ethical perspectives is examined before introducing a model which highlights key challenges and benefits of undertaking research within mental health contexts. Excerpts from both current and recent projects are then applied to the model. Finally, it is argued that many of the most ethically challenging issues arise outside of the realms and remits of ethics committees, consequently requiring the mental health researcher to possess and develop his or her ethical and emotionally intelligent capabilities.
Safety and efficacy of bortezomib-melphalan-prednisone-thalidomide followed by bortezomib-thalidomide maintenance (VMPT-VT) versus bortezomib-melphalan-prednisone (VMP) in untreated multiple myeloma patients with renal impairment
Authors: Morabito Fortunato , Gentile Massimo , Mazzone Carla , Rossi Davide , Di Raimondo Francesco , Bringhen Sara , Ria Roberto , Offidani Massimo , Patriarca Francesca , Nozzoli Chiara , Petrucci Maria Teresa , Benevolo Giulia , Vincelli Iolanda , Guglielmelli Tommasina , Grasso Mariella , Marasca Roberto , Baldini Luca , Montefusco Vittorio , Musto Pellegrino , Cascavilla Nicola , Majolino Ignazio , Musolino Caterina , Cavo Michele , Boccadoro Mario , Palumbo Antonio
Published: September 2011

We assessed efficacy, safety, and reversal of renal impairment (RI) in untreated patients with multiple myeloma given bortezomib-melphalan-prednisone-thalidomide followed by bortezomib-thalidomide (VMPT-VT) maintenance or bortezomib-melphalan-prednisone (VMP). Exclusion criteria included serum creatinine ≥ 2.5 mg/dL. In the VMPT-VT/VMP arms, severe RI (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≤ 30 mL/min), moderate RI (eGFR 31-50 mL/min), and normal renal function (eGFR > 50 mL/min), were 6%/7.9%, 24.1%/24.9%, and 69.8%/67.2%, respectively. Statistically significant improvements in overall response rates and progression-free survival were observed in VMPT-VT versus VMP arms across renal cohorts, except in severe RI patients. In the VMPT group, severe RI reduced overall survival (OS). RI was reversed in 16/63 (25.4%) patients receiving VMPT-VT versus 31/77 (40.3%) receiving VMP. Multivariate analysis showed male sex (P = .022) and moderate RI (P = .003) significantly predicted RI recovery. VMP patients achieving renal response showed longer OS. In both arms, greater rates of severe hematologic adverse events were associated with RI (eGFR < 50 mL/min), however, therapy discontinuation rates were unaffected. VMPT-VT was superior to VMP for cases with normal renal function and moderate RI, whereas VMPT-VT failed to outperform VMP in patients with severe RI, although the relatively low number of cases analyzed preclude drawing definitive conclusions. VMPT-VT had no advantage in terms of RI reversal over VMP. This study is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01063179.
Erythrocyte membrane changes of chorea-acanthocytosis are the result of altered Lyn kinase activity
Authors: De Franceschi Lucia , Tomelleri Carlo , Matte Alessandro , Brunati Anna Maria , Bovee-Geurts Petra H. , Bertoldi Mariarita , Lasonder Edwin , Tibaldi Elena , Danek Adrian , Walker Ruth H. , Jung Hans H. , Bader Benedikt , Siciliano Angela , Ferru Emanuela , Mohandas Narla , Bosman Giel J. C. G. M.
Published: September 2011

Acanthocytic RBCs are a peculiar diagnostic feature of chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc), a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder. Although recent years have witnessed some progress in the molecular characterization of ChAc, the mechanism(s) responsible for generation of acanthocytes in ChAc is largely unknown. As the membrane protein composition of ChAc RBCs is similar to that of normal RBCs, we evaluated the tyrosine (Tyr)–phosphorylation profile of RBCs using comparative proteomics. Increased Tyr phosphorylation state of several membrane proteins, including band 3, β-spectrin, and adducin, was noted in ChAc RBCs. In particular, band 3 was highly phosphorylated on the Tyr-904 residue, a functional target of Lyn, but not on Tyr-8, a functional target of Syk. In ChAc RBCs, band 3 Tyr phosphorylation by Lyn was independent of the canonical Syk-mediated pathway. The ChAc-associated alterations in RBC membrane protein organization appear to be the result of increased Tyr phosphorylation leading to altered linkage of band 3 to the junctional complexes involved in anchoring the membrane to the cytoskeleton as supported by coimmunoprecipitation of β-adducin with band 3 only in ChAc RBC-membrane treated with the Lyn-inhibitor PP2. We propose this altered association between membrane skeleton and membrane proteins as novel mechanism in the generation of acanthocytes in ChAc.