bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Stage Cell-Based Cartilage Regeneration Using a Combination of Chondrons and Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Bekkers Joris E.J. , Tsuchida Anika I. , van Rijen Mattie H.P. , Vonk Lucienne A. , Dhert Wouter J.A. , Creemers Laura B. , Saris Daniel B.F.
Published: July 2013

Background:

Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is traditionally a 2-step procedure used to repair focal articular cartilage lesions. With use of a combination of chondrons (chondrocytes in their own territorial matrix) and mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), ACI could be innovated and performed in a single step, as sufficient cells would be available to fill the defect within a 1-step surgical procedure. Chondrons have been shown to have higher regenerative capacities than chondrocytes without such a pericellular matrix.

Purpose:

To evaluate cartilage formation by a combination of chondrons and MSCs in vitro and in both small and large animal models.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Chondrons and MSCs were cultured at different ratios in vitro containing 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 50%, or 100% chondrons (n = 3); embedded in injectable fibrin glue (Beriplast); and implanted subcutaneously in nude mice (n = 10; ratios of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20% chondrons). Also, in a 1-step procedure, a combination of chondrons and MSCs was implanted in a freshly created focal articular cartilage lesion (10% chondrons) in goats (n = 8) and compared with microfracture. The effect of both treatments, after 6-month follow-up, was evaluated using biochemical glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and GAG/DNA analysis and scored using validated scoring systems for macroscopic and microscopic defect repairs.

Results:

The addition of MSCs to chondron cultures enhanced cartilage-specific matrix production as reflected by a higher GAG production ( P < .03), both in absolute levels and normalized to DNA content, compared with chondrocyte and 100% chondron cultures. Similar results were observed after 4 weeks of subcutaneous implantation in nude mice. Treatment of freshly created cartilage defects in goats using a combination of chondrons and MSCs in Beriplast resulted in better microscopic, macroscopic, and biochemical cartilage regeneration ( P ≤ .02) compared with microfracture treatment.

Conclusion:

The combination of chondrons and MSCs increased cartilage matrix formation, and this combination of cells was safely applied in a goat model for focal cartilage lesions, outperforming microfracture.

Clinical Relevance:

This study describes the bench-to-preclinical development of a new cell-based regenerative treatment for focal articular cartilage defects that outperforms microfracture in goats. In addition, it is a single-step procedure, thereby making the expensive cell expansion and reimplantation of dedifferentiated cells, as in ACI, redundant.
Influence of chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus on the volatilization behavior of heavy metals during sewage sludge thermal treatment
Authors: Luan Jingde , Li Rundong , Zhang Zhihui , Li Yanlong , Zhao Yun
Published: July 2013

Chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus were selected as element donators to investigate their effect on the volatilization behavior of heavy metals in sludge sewage incineration. Principal component analysis indicated that the promotive effect on the volatilization of heavy metals was followed by chlorine, sulfur and phosphorus. This result was proved to be correct by total release of heavy metals in sewage sludge incineration using different element donators. The release of heavy metals was very chlorine dependent, especially cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni). When chlorine content was in the range of 0.1–0.5wt%, the increase of the volatilization rate was 44.9% for Cd, 6.8% for Pb and 4.6% for Ni, respectively. Although sulfur contributed to the promotion of the volatilization of heavy metals, excess oxygen impaired the promotive effect of sulfur on the release of heavy metals from the condensed phase. For phosphorus, solidifying heavy metals was dominant. Energy analysis showed that metal chlorides and sulfides were prone to volatilize or to be decomposed at elevated temperature compared with sulfates and phosphates owing to low binding energy in absolute value (VLFA). It was the difference of binding energy that led to the different volatilization behavior of metal compounds in a high temperature, oxygen-enriched atmosphere.
Aluminium recovery from waste incineration bottom ash, andits oxidation level
Authors: Biganzoli Laura , Grosso Mario
Published: July 2013

The recovery of aluminium (Al) scraps from waste incineration bottom ash is becoming a common practice in waste management. However, during the incineration process, Al in the waste undergoes oxidation processes that reduce its recycling potential. This article investigates the behaviour of Al scraps in the furnace of two selected grate-fired waste-to-energy plants and the amount recoverable from the bottom ash. About 21–23% of the Al fed to the furnace with the residual waste was recovered and potentially recycled from the bottom ash. Out of this amount, 76–87% was found in the bottom ash fraction above 5 mm and thus can be recovered with standard eddy current separation technology. These values depend on the characteristics and the mechanical strength of the Al items in the residual waste. Considering Al packaging materials, about 81% of the Al in cans can be recovered from the bottom ash as an ingot, but this amount decreases to 51% for trays, 27% for a mix of aluminium and poly-laminated foils and 47% for paper-laminated foils. This shows that the recovery of Al from the incineration residues increases proportionally to the thickness of the packaging.
Improving integrated waste management at the regional level: The case of Lombardia
Authors: Rigamonti Lucia , Falbo Alida , Grosso Mario
Published: July 2013

The article summarises the main results of the ‘Gestione Rifiuti in Lombardia: Analisi del ciclo di vita’ (Waste management in Lombardia region: Life cycle assessment; GERLA) project. Life cycle assessment (LCA) has been selected by Regione Lombardia as a strategic decision support tool in the drafting of its new waste management programme. The goal was to use the life cycle thinking approach to assess the current regional situation and thus to give useful strategic indications for the future waste management. The first phase of the study consisted of the LCA of the current management of municipal waste in the Lombardia region (reference year: 2009). The interpretation of such results has allowed the definition of four possible waste management scenarios for the year 2020, with the final goal being to improve the environmental performance of the regional system. The results showed that the current integrated waste management of Lombardia region is already characterised by good energy and environmental performances. However, there is still room for further improvement: actions based, on the one hand, on a further increase in recycling rates and, on the other hand, on a series of technological modifications, especially in food waste and residual waste management, can be undertaken to improve the overall system.
The impact of regulatory compliance behavior on hazardous waste generation in European private healthcare facilities
Authors: Botelho Anabela
Published: July 2013

This study empirically evaluates whether the increasingly large numbers of private outpatient healthcare facilities (HCFs) within the European Union (EU) countries comply with the existing European waste legislation, and whether compliance with such legislation affects the fraction of healthcare waste (HCW) classified as hazardous. To that end, this study uses data collected by a large survey of more than 700 small private HCFs distributed throughout Portugal, a full member of the EU since 1986, where 50% of outpatient care is currently dominated by private operators. The collected data are then used to estimate a hurdle model, i.e. a statistical specification in which there are two processes: one is the process by which some HCFs generate zero or some positive fraction of hazardous HCW, and another is the process by which HCFs generate a specific positive fraction of hazardous HCW conditional on producing any. Taken together, the results show that although compliance with the law is far from ideal, it is the strongest factor influencing hazardous waste generation. In particular, it is found that higher compliance has a small and insignificant effect on the probability of generating (or reporting) positive amounts of hazardous waste, but it does have a large and significant effect on the fraction of hazardous waste produced, conditional on producing any, with a unit increase in the compliance rate leading to an estimated decrease in the fraction of hazardous HCW by 16.3 percentage points.
Wood ash amendment to biogas reactors as an alternative to landfilling? A preliminary study on changes in process chemistry and biology
Authors: Podmirseg Sabine M , Seewald Martin SA , Knapp Brigitte A , Bouzid Ourdia , Biderre-Petit Corinne , Peyret Pierre , Insam Heribert
Published: July 2013

Wood ash addition to biogas plants represents an alternative to commonly used landfilling by improving the reactor performance, raising the pH and alleviating potential limits of trace elements. This study is the first on the effects of wood ash on reactor conditions and microbial communities in cattle slurry-based biogas reactors. General process parameters [temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, ammonia, volatile fatty acids, carbon/nitrogen (C/N), total solids (TS), volatile solids, and gas quantity and quality] were monitored along with molecular analyses of methanogens by polymerase chain reaction- denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and modern microarrays (archaea and bacteria). A prompt pH rise was observed, as was an increase in C/N ratio and volatile fatty acids. Biogas production was inhibited, but recovered to even higher production rates and methane concentration after single amendment. High sulphur levels in the wood ash generated hydrogen sulphide and potentially hampered methanogenesis. Methanosarcina was the most dominant methanogen in all reactors; however, diversity was higher in ash-amended reactors. Bacterial groups like Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria were favoured, which could improve the hydrolytic efficiency of the reactors. We recommend constant monitoring of the chemical composition of the used wood ash and suggest that ash amendment is adequate if added to the substrate at a rate low enough to allow adaptation of the microbiota (e.g. 0.25 g g−1 TS). It could further help to enrich digestate with important nutrients, for example phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, but further experiments are required for the evaluation of wood ash concentrations that are tolerable for anaerobic digestion.
Co-digestion, biostimulation and bioaugmentation to enhance methanation of brewer’s spent grain
Authors: Goberna Marta , Camacho Maria del Mar , Lopez-Abadia Juan Antonio , García Carlos
Published: July 2013

More than 300,000 tonnes of brewer’s spent grain (BSG) is generated annually during beer production. This protein- and nutrient-rich by-product is mostly employed as an animal feedstuff. However, its marketability is compromised by its rapid deterioration owing to its high humidity and fermentable sugar content. Drying BSG can be achieved using the bio-energy generated from the anaerobic digestion of part of the BSG produced in the same brewery. We employed three types of strategies to enhance the biomethanation of BSG in mesophilic batch incubations. First, we co-digested BSG with peach flesh residues, juice residues, sewage sludge and pig slurry. Second, we supplemented BSG with chemical additives (carbon and energy sources) in order to biostimulate the methane-producing microbial communities. Finally, we used anaerobically acclimatised BSG to augment the initial microbial load in assays digesting BSG either alone or in co-digestion with sewage sludge. All co-substrates assayed were suitable to be fermented in combination with BSG, although methane production was highest for the mixtures with sewage sludge and pig slurry, with their high pH values and nutrient contents. Nine out of 14 combinations of stimulatory chemicals significantly enhanced BSG methanation compared with a non-supplemented control. Overall, bioaugmenting the anaerobic microbial consortia by using fermented BSG as an inoculum when co-digesting BSG with sewage sludge performed best in terms of methane yield.
The effects of Cetraria islandica and Pseudevernia furfuracea extracts in normal and diabetic rats
Authors: Bakır Tülay Özhan , Geyikoglu Fatime , Çolak Suat , Türkez Hasan , Aslan Ali , Bakır Murat
Published: July 2013

Lichens are symbiotic organisms composed of a fungus joined to a photosynthesizing partner that can be either an alga or a cyanobacterium. They can be used as a novel bioresource for natural antioxidants. However, there is also a need for further studies to validate the lichens used in medicinal remedies. This study covers a previously unrecognized effects of Cetraria islandica (CIAE) and Pseudevernia furfuracea (PFAE) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. In experimental design, control or diabetic rats were either untreated or treated with aqueous lichen extracts (250–500 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks starting at 72 h after STZ injection. On day 14, animals were anesthetized, metabolic and biochemical parameters were appreciated between control and treatment groups. The histopathology of kidney was examined using four different staining methods: hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Masson trichrome and Congo red. Our experimental data showed that increasing doses of CIAE and PFAE did not have any detrimental effects on the studied parameters and the malondialdehyde level of kidney. CIAE extract showed prominent results compared to doses of PFAE extract for antioxidant capacity. However, the protective effect of CIAE extract was inadequate on diabetes-induced disorders and kidney damages. Moreover, animals subjected to diabetes mellitus (DM) therapy did not benefit unfortunately from the usage of increasing lichen doses due to their unchanged antioxidant activity to tissue. The results obtained in present study suggested that CIAE and PFAE are safe but the power of these is limited because of the intensive oxidative stress in kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. It is also implied that CIAE extract is especially suitable for different administration routes in DM.
The metabolism of carbohydrates and lipid peroxidation in lead-exposed workers
Authors: Kasperczyk Aleksandra , Dobrakowski Michal , Ostałowska Alina , Zalejska-Fiolka Jolanta , Birkner Ewa
Published: July 2013

The present study was undertaken to estimate the effect of occupational exposure to lead on the blood concentration of glucose and several enzymes involved in glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. To estimate the degree of lipid peroxidation, the concentrations of conjugated dienes were determined.

The examined group included 145 healthy male employees of lead–zinc works. Taking into account the mean blood lead levels, the examined group was divided into two subgroups. The control group was composed of 36 healthy male administrative workers.

The markers of lead exposure were significantly elevated in both subgroups when compared with the controls. There were no significant changes in fasting glucose concentration and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate aldolase activity in the study population. The concentration of conjugated dienes was significantly higher in both subgroups, whereas the activity of malate dehydrogenase was significantly higher only in the group with higher exposure. The activities of lactate dehydrogenase and sorbitol dehydrogenase were significantly decreased in the examined subgroups. The activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase decreased significantly in the group with higher exposure and could be the cause of the elevated concentrations of conjugated dienes.

It is possible to conclude that lead interferes with carbohydrate metabolism, but compensatory mechanisms seem to be efficient, as glucose homeostasis in lead-exposed workers was not disturbed.
A Clash of Racializations: The Policing of ‘Race’ and of Anti-Muslim Racism in Ireland
Authors: Carr James , Haynes Amanda
Published: July 2013

National manifestations of anti-Muslim racism reflect both transnational and local self-imaginings and relations of power. In this article, Carr and Haynes present Irish anti-Muslim racism as exemplifying the confluence of such forces. They argue that Muslims are caught in a clash of racializations; in this instance, between exclusionary Irishness and racialized Muslimness. Both operate to expose Muslims to racist activity while concomitantly excluding them from the protection of the State. Carr and Haynes argue that the State’s failure to tackle anti-Muslim racism is part of a wider dismantling of the apparatus to address racism, which reflects both the neoliberalization of ‘race’ and the racing of neoliberalism. In support of these arguments, Carr and Haynes present extensive primary data which evidences the complex intersectional relationship between religion, ‘race’, ethnicity and gender in the lived experience of anti-Muslim racism and underline its existence as a cohesive phenomenon.
Correlates of Eating Disorder in Middle-Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Ng Isabella S.F. , Cheung Kelvin C.K. , Chou Kee-Lee
Published: July 2013

Objective: This study aims to investigate: (a) the association of eating disorders with childhood sexual abuse and recent stressful life events; (b) the coexistence of eating disorders and other common psychiatric disorders; and (c) the impact of eating disorders on obesity, medical conditions, and health service utilization. Method: We conducted secondary data analyses based on population-based study, which consists of a nationally representative sample of 2,870 community-dwelling adults aged 50 and above, interviewed in 2006 to 2007. Results and conclusion: The 12-month prevalence of eating disorders was 2.61%. Multivariate analyses revealed that eating disorders were more common among younger age groups, women, and those who reported stressful life events. In addition, eating disorders were significantly related to anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, panic disorder, obesity, and cancer. Discussion: This study supports the notion that eating disorders in older adults are associated with a number of psychosocial, psychiatric, and medical conditions.
What Are Older Latinos Told About Physical Activity and Cognition? A Content Analysis of a Top-Circulating Magazine
Authors: Rose India D. , Friedman Daniela B. , Marquez David X. , Fernandez Karen
Published: July 2013

Objectives: Physical activity (PA) may reduce risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The objectives of this study were to: (a) Compare the content of English and Spanish PA-focused articles in American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) magazines; and (b) Determine whether these articles discuss PA as a potential correlate of AD. Method: AARP (English) and AARP Segunda Juventud (Spanish) magazines were assessed for PA coverage from 2009 to 2010. Articles were analyzed using nonparametric tests. Results: A total of 63 articles discussed PA (48 English; 15 Spanish). In AARP English, 70.8% of articles discussed formal exercise, while 53.3% of Spanish articles discussed formal exercise. Only three English articles mentioned that PA has the potential to reduce risk of AD. No Spanish articles mentioned this association. Discussion: Spanish content did not adequately present cognitive health information. Culturally appropriate media coverage is needed to inform diverse populations about cognitive health and risks of AD.
Preparation and properties of bisphenol A-based bisphthalonitrile polymers
Authors: Chen Zhiran , Yang Xulin , Xu Mingzhen , Liu Xiaobo
Published: July 2013

The nitrile groups of 2,2-bis [4-(3,4)-dicyanophenoxy phenyl] propane (bisphthalonitrile; BAPh) can be cured by the nucleophilic phenol groups. Bisphenol A (BPA) can react with 4-nitrophathalonitrile to synthesize BAPh. Therefore, BPA was used as a novel curing agent to react with BAPh. The BAPh/BPA prepolymers and polymers were prepared by heat polymerization. The curing behaviors were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic rheological analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicate that BPA can decrease the melting temperature of BAPh, shorten the curing time of BAPh with lower curing temperature at 243°C, and widen the processing windows of BAPh to 95–120°C. Meanwhile, BAPh/BPA polymers could withstand temperatures up to 443°C under nitrogen atmosphere and 420°C in air when cured at 240°C for 10 h. The mechanical properties of BAPh/BPA polymers were investigated, and it exhibits a flexural strength of 75 to 122 MPa. Dynamic mechanical analysis was used to evaluate the dynamic mechanical properties of BAPh/BPA polymers. The polymers show glass transition temperature ranging from 244 to 299°C heating and cured to 240°C. Herein, the BAPh/BPA polymers can be a good candidate resin for high-performance polymeric materials.
Preparation of expandable graphite via ozone-hydrothermal process and flame-retardant properties of high-density polyethylene composites
Authors: Shen Ming-Yuan , Li Kuo-Yi , Kuan Chen-Feng , Kuan Hsu-Chiang , Chen Chia-Hsun , Yip Ming-Chuen , Chou Huang-Wen , Chiang Chin-Lung
Published: July 2013

This work presented the ozone (O3)-hydrothermal process to prepare expandable graphite (EG), which is one kind of halogen-free flame retardant. The results showed the expanded volume of EG using the O3-hydrothermal process (O3-HEG), which is higher than those compared with convectional liquid phase synthesis, ultrasound irradiation, and hydrothermal method. Raman spectra and energy dispersive x-ray were used to analyze the structure and confirm that the EG had been prepared. Scanning electron microscope was utilized to observe the morphology of EG and expanded graphite. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that EG can slowdown thermal degradation of polymer and improve the thermal stability of composites. Limiting oxygen index value of composites with 40 wt% loading of O3-HEG is 33, which is higher than that of high-density polyethylene (HDPE)/natural graphite composite. HDPE composites-containing 30 wt % O3-HEG is capable of passing the V-0 classification and has an anti-dripping behavior.
1200 years of decadal-scale variability of Mediterranean vegetation and climate at Pantelleria Island, Italy
Authors: Calò Camilla , Henne Paul D , Eugster Patricia , van Leeuwen Jacqueline , Gilli Adrian , Hamann Yvonne , La Mantia Tommaso , Pasta Salvatore , Vescovi Elisa , Tinner Willy
Published: July 2013

A new sedimentary sequence from Lago di Venere on Pantelleria Island, located in the Strait of Sicily between Tunisia and Sicily was recovered. The lake is located in the coastal infra-Mediterranean vegetation belt at 2 m a.s.l. Pollen, charcoal and sedimentological analyses are used to explore linkages among vegetation, fire and climate at a decadal scale over the past 1200 years. A dry period from ad 800 to 1000 that corresponds to the ‘Medieval Warm Period’ (WMP) is inferred from sedimentological analysis. The high content of carbonate recorded in this period suggests a dry phase, when the ratio of evaporation/precipitation was high. During this period the island was dominated by thermophilous and drought-tolerant taxa, such as Quercus ilex, Olea, Pistacia and Juniperus. A marked shift in the sediment properties is recorded at ad 1000, when carbonate content became very low suggesting wetter conditions until ad 1850–1900. Broadly, this period coincides with the ‘Little Ice Age’ (LIA), which was characterized by wetter and colder conditions in Europe. During this time rather mesic conifers (i.e. Pinus pinaster), shrubs and herbs (e.g. Erica arborea and Selaginella denticulata) expanded, whereas more drought-adapted species (e.g. Q. ilex) declined. Charcoal data suggest enhanced fire activity during the LIA probably as a consequence of anthropogenic burning and/or more flammable fuel (e.g. resinous Pinus biomass). The last century was characterized by a shift to high carbonate content, indicating a change towards drier conditions, and re-expansion of Q. ilex and Olea. The post-LIA warming is in agreement with historical documents and meteorological time series. Vegetation dynamics were co-determined by agricultural activities on the island. Anthropogenic indicators (e.g. Cerealia-type, Sporormiella) reveal the importance of crops and grazing on the island. Our pollen data suggest that extensive logging caused the local extinction of deciduous Quercus pubescens around ad1750.
‘You can’t be too vain to gain if you want to swim the Channel’: Marathon swimming and the construction of heroic fatness
Authors: Throsby Karen
Published: July 2013

The fat body and the sporting body are conventionally understood as mutually exclusive, coming together only in sport-based weight-loss interventions. However, the sport of marathon swimming relies upon body fat as a performance advantage, and weight maintenance and gain are a common element of the training process. The concept of ‘heroic fatness’ offers (some) swimmers a means of negotiating this anomalous sporting embodiment, positioning swimming fat as an undesirable necessity, nobly, but provisionally, borne. The paper argues that this construction is made possible through the construction of swimming fat as fake and as separate from the self. However, the paper unsettles this ideal-type of heroic fatness through the identification of the exclusions upon which it relies, both in terms of gender, and in relation to those who are already fat at the start of training. This opens up the possibility of more ambivalent modes of fatness that run counter to both heroic fatness and its unheroic counterpart – the very ‘real’ fatness that is the target of instrumentalist sport-based weight-loss interventions.
Authoritarianism and American Political Behavior from 1952 to 2008
Authors: Cizmar Anne M. , Layman Geoffrey C. , McTague John , Pearson-Merkowitz Shanna , Spivey Michael
Published: July 2013

Using American National Election Studies (NES) data from 1952 to 2008—a longer timespan than any analysis to date—we evaluate the leading claims about growing polarization along authoritarian/nonauthoritarian lines and the reasons for that growth. We find authoritarianism’s impact has grown for partisanship and voting but has been consistent for policy attitudes—usually present for “social” and defense issues, but less so for social welfare and foreign policy. This suggests that authoritarianism’s importance is related to strategic politicians advancing issues that touch on the authoritarian/nonauthoritarian divide, and varies across election years.
Realignment Surgery for Severe Talar Tilt Secondary to Paralytic Cavovarus
Authors: Lee Woo-Chun , Ahn Ji-Yong , Cho Jae-Ho , Park Chul-Hyun
Published: July 2013

Background:

Realignment surgeries for mild to moderate ankle osteoarthritis with minimal talar tilt have been reported to be effective. However, there has been no report on joint-sparing surgery of ankle osteoarthritis in patients with paralytic disorders who have severe talar tilt. We therefore investigated whether ankle osteoarthritis with severe talar tilt caused by paralytic disorders can be improved after operative treatment.

Methods:

This study included 12 ankles (11 patients) with varus ankle osteoarthritis from paralytic disorders with cavovarus deformity of the foot. Mean follow-up period was 3.0 years (range, 2-4.5 years). Causes of paralysis were residual polio in 7 ankles (6 patients), cerebral palsy in 2 ankles, and idiopathic in 3 ankles. Preoperative and postoperative clinical assessments were performed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score and a visual analogue scale (VAS). The Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) was used for postoperative assessment. Pre- and postoperative radiographic parameters were compared.

Results:

Mean AOFAS score improved from 39.1 (range, 32-57) preoperatively to 77.9 (range, 72-85) postoperatively. Mean talar tilt improved from 17.4 degrees (range, 9.5-33.5 degrees) to 1.4 degrees (range, 0-4 degrees). Degree of osteoarthritis according to Takakura classification improved in all ankles except two. Mean heel alignment angle was reduced from 40.4 degrees (range, 2-65 degrees) of varus preoperatively to 11.2 degrees (range, –3 to 25.5 degrees) of varus postoperatively.

Conclusion:

Medial varus ankle osteoarthritis from paralytic cavovarus may be improved even in cases of severe talar tilt.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Neuron-to-Neuron Transmission of Neurodegenerative Pathology
Authors: Hallbeck Martin , Nath Sangeeta , Marcusson Jan
Published: July 2013

One of the hallmarks of neurodegenerative dementia diseases is the progressive loss of mental functions and the ability to manage activities of daily life. This progression is caused by the spread of the disease to more and more brain areas via anatomical connections. The pathophysiological process responsible for this spread of disease has long been sought after. There has been an increased understanding that the driving force of these neurodegenerative diseases could be the small, soluble intraneuronal accumulations of neurodegenerative proteins rather than the large, extracellular accumulations. Recently we have shown that the mechanism of spread of Alzheimer’s disease most likely depends on the neuron-to-neuron spread of such soluble intraneuronal accumulations of β-amyloid through neuritic connections. Similar transmissions have been shown for several other neurodegenerative proteins but little is known about the cellular mechanisms and about any potential strategies that might stop this spread. Resolving these questions requires good cellular models. We have established a unique model of synaptic transmission between human neuronal-like cells, something that has previously been difficult to target. This opens the possibility of developing potential inhibitors of progression of these devastating diseases.
Fixed Combination of Amlodipine/Atorvastatin
Authors: Ivanovic Branislava , Tadic Marijana
Published: July 2013

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Risk factors are rarely seen individually, and the 2 most common and most frequently associated risk factors are hypertension and dyslipidemia (DL). Studies conducted in different parts of the world uniquely point out insufficient efficacy of hypertension and DL treatment, which is reflected in blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein levels higher than target values. A reason of this therapeutic failure is the reduced adherence, which is mainly caused by multidrug therapy. A possible solution for this problem is the use of fixed combinations. The main advantages of amlodipine/atorvastatin fixed combination are synergistic effect of these 2 components, a single-dose treatment, high safety profile, and good tolerance.
Measurement and Reversal of Prophylactic and Therapeutic Peak Levels of Rivaroxaban
Authors: Körber Mareike Kristina , Langer Elisabeth , Ziemer Sabine , Perzborn Elisabeth , Gericke Christine , Heymann Christian von
Published: July 2013

Background:

Rivaroxaban (Xarelto, Bayer HealthCare, Leverkusen, Germany) is a new oral anticoagulant drug. Anticoagulants may cause bleeding, thereby requiring reliable monitoring and efficient therapy. We investigated thromboelastometry versus routine coagulation tests to measure prophylactic and therapeutic concentrations of rivaroxaban and their reversal with prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) and activated recombinant factor VII (rFVIIa) in vitro.

Methods:

Rivaroxaban was solubilized, and PCC and rFVIIa were added in 2 concentrations to the rivaroxaban-spiked blood samples, and thromboelastometry and measurements were performed.

Results:

Rivaroxaban increased tissue factor–activated clotting time (CTExTEM) dose dependently. Activated partial prothrombin time (aPTT), prothrombin time ratio (PTR), and prothrombin time (PT) were changed significantly in both concentrations. Reversal with PCC in both dosages caused no significant change in the measured parameters. For prophylactic rivaroxaban dosage, rFVIIa changed the PT significantly but not CTExTEM, aPTT, and PTR. For therapeutic rivaroxaban dosage, the CTExTEM was significantly reduced. The other parameters remained unaffected.

Conclusions:

Thromboelastometry can detect rivaroxaban effects. In vitro rFVIIa seems highly effective for reversal in contrast to PCC.
Parametric instability of delaminated composite plates subjected to periodic in-plane loading
Authors: Mohanty Jayaram , Sahu Shishir Kumar , Parhi Pravat Kumar
Published: July 2013

This paper deals with the study of the parametric instability characteristics of delaminated composite plates subjected to periodic in-plane load. A first order shear deformation theory based on finite element method is developed for studying the instability region of mid-plane delaminated composite plate. A detailed parametric investigation is carried out to study the influence of the delamination area, number of layers, degree of orthotropy, aspect ratio and static in-plane load on the dynamic stability characteristics of delaminated cross-ply plates. The results of vibration and buckling of delaminated composite plates are compared with previous numerical studies in the literature and the authors’ experimental investigations. The boundaries of instability regions are obtained by using Bolotin’s method and are represented in the non-dimensional load amplitude-excitation frequency plane. It is observed that the natural frequencies and the critical buckling load of the plates decrease with an increase in delamination size. The increase in delamination size also causes dynamic instability regions to be shifted to lower excitation frequencies.
Activist Educational Research
Authors: DeMeulenaere Eric J. , Cann Colette N.
Published: July 2013

In the field of education, critical theorists, critical pedagogues, and critical race theorists call for academics to engage in activist academic work to promote the social transformation of the material conditions created by racism and other forms of oppression. This article is a response to this call for academics, particularly those in the field of education, to confront inequities resulting from intersecting oppressions such as heterosexism, racism, and sexism as well as to take action to create a more socially just world. Using two years of fieldnotes and interactive interviews, we present a critical co-constructed autoethnography that reviews literature on activist research, offers a critical analysis of our own efforts at activist research and provides a framework for reflecting on the impact of different types of activist research, particularly in the field of education.
Integrating Multiple Representations
Authors: Owton Helen
Published: July 2013

This article seeks to engage debates about integrating pluralisms regarding multiple forms/representations and how they might function smoothly if they are closely aligned. This article offers, narrative poetry with an artistic impression aimed at seeing how these might interact with each other. Like poetry, visual images are unique and can evoke particular kinds of emotional and visceral responses. By offering narrative poetry together with an artistic representation it is not meant to devalue the importance of either, but it is aimed at seeing how these arts-based methods and creative analytical practices might unite as a narrative to offer knew ways of “knowing” and “seeing.”
Exploring Alternative Approaches for Presenting Evaluation Results
Authors: Johnson Jeremiah , Hall Jori , Greene Jennifer C. , Ahn Jeehae
Published: July 2013

Evaluators have an obligation to present clearly the results of their evaluative efforts. Traditionally, such presentations showcase formal written and oral reports, with dispassionate language and graphs, tables, quotes, and vignettes. These traditional forms do not reach all audiences nor are they likely to include the most powerful presentation possibilities. In this article, we share our use of alternative presentation formats, undertaken to increase the utility, appeal, and salience of our work. We offer a conceptual rationale for the use of “alternative representational forms” and describe the context for our use of alternative formats, which involved evaluations of various science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educational programs. We present four examples, featuring visual display, performance, multiple program theories, and poetry. The article concludes with reflections on the future of alternative presentation approaches.
Toward a More Holistic Evaluation Approach for Rural Development
Authors: Miyoshi Koichi
Published: July 2013

The discussion on and development of a holistic evaluation approach for rural development will be indispensable to improving and enriching the lives of rural people. This approach can be developed by considering the conceptualization of community policy structure in rural areas, the localization of policy structure in the rural community, and the promotion of participatory evaluation for rural community people. The development and use of such an evaluation approach will contribute much to rural development and bringing about positive societal change.
Growth and Integration in the Evaluation Profession
Authors: Naidoo Indran A.
Published: July 2013

This article sketches the growth and accompanying challenges that face development evaluation in the future, by showing that whilst the progress in expanding the geographical presence of evaluation has been impressive, much more needs to be done. Important work has been done in promoting guidance through agencies such as the (UNEG, OECD/DAC and NONIE), and the recent coalescing of evaluation forces under EvalPartners help entrench evaluation. However, there needs to be a more deliberate effort to ensure that new entrants, many of who draw attention to their countries which have not had an evaluation culture, and which would potentially benefit from greater accountability and transparency, need support. The need to adapt methodologies to context is important but this should not compromise minimum evaluation standards, and high level political support for the function is critical. It is also necessary at a very practical level for there to be a contextual appreciation. The article recognizes that the freshness brought by new entrants should be welcomed and this means new levels of engagement with established practice, many of which are not known due to the limited publishing of work from this area. The active participation of evaluation leaders and professionals to support through mentorship and volunteerism is necessary, to accompany the technical and political dimensions of development evaluation.
Evaluation Responsibility and Leadership in the Face of Failing Democracies
Authors: McKegg Kate
Published: July 2013

In a world faced with unprecedented rising levels of inequality and injustice, is there a responsibility for our evaluation organizations to take on a leadership role in promoting inclusive, evaluative dialog and deliberation about the state of our democracies in relation to key democratic principles and ideals? In this forum, I question whether it is enough for us to rely on evaluators and evaluations to promote key democratic purposes and ideals.
Mediating words, mediating worlds: Interpreting as hidden care work in a South African psychiatric institution
Authors: Smith Jénine , Swartz Leslie , Kilian Sanja , Chiliza Bonginkosi
Published: July 2013

Many mental health clinicians in South Africa use informal interpreters, who are employed to perform other functions, such as cleaners and security guards; there are no formally trained interpreters. Drawing on qualitative semistructured interviews, this paper examines the experiences of informal interpreters working within a psychiatric setting. Furthermore, this paper explores how working in this invisible capacity affects informal interpreters’ views of themselves and the contribution they feel they are making by acting as interpreters. An interpretative phenomenological approach enabled an in-depth analysis of the experiences of the ad hoc interpreters. The results of this study reveal a dilemma. On the one hand, informal interpreters interviewed jeopardize ethical principles by breaching confidentiality and reporting on patient behaviour without their consent. On the other hand, they report fulfilling an additional beneficial role in terms of the overall care of patients which goes beyond the ambit of the interpreting session. The impact and extent of the informal interpreters’ involvement in care could not be ascertained solely from the data obtained in this study, but it is clear that informal interpreting may usefully be viewed as a form of hidden care work. A detailed ethnographic study aimed at exploring this further is therefore recommended.
ACE genotype, phenotype and all-cause mortality in different cohorts of patients with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Færch Louise H , Sejling Anne-Sophie , Lajer Maria , Tarnow Lise , Thorsteinsson Birger , Pedersen-Bjergaard Ulrik
Published: July 2013

Aims:

Carrying the D-allele of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) I/D polymorphism and high ACE activity are prognostic factors in diabetic nephropathy, which predicts mortality in type 1 diabetes. We studied the association between the ACE D-allele and ACE phenotype and long-term all-cause mortality in three single-institution outpatient cohorts.

Methods:

Genotype-based analyses were performed in 269 patients from Hillerød Hospital (HIH) (follow-up: 12 years) and in 439 patients with diabetic nephropathy and 437 patients with persistent normoalbuminuria from the Steno Diabetes Center (SDC) (follow-up: 9.5 years). Patients not on renin-angiotensin system (RAS)-blocking treatment were included in analyses of serum ACE activity (HIH: n = 208) and plasma ACE concentration (SDC: n=269).

Results:

In the HIH cohort, carrying a D-allele was associated with excess mortality (hazard ratio (HR) = 4.0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0–16)), but not in the SDC cohorts. At HIH, serum ACE activity was associated with excess mortality (HR=1.04 (95% CI 1.0–1.1 per unit increase)), but in the SDC cohort plasma ACE concentration was not.

Conclusion:

In unselected patients with type 1 diabetes, carrying the ACE D-allele and high spontaneous serum ACE activity were associated with 12-year excess mortality. These findings could not be reproduced in two other cohorts with persistent normoalbuminuria or diabetic nephropathy.
The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) I/D polymorphism in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Su Gang , Dou Hengli , Zhao Limei , Wang Hongjie , Liu Guiyang , Huang Bo , Peng Bo
Published: July 2013

Objective:

The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) may be involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). There have been several studies investigating the association between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and PD risk, but they reported inconsistent findings. We performed a meta-analysis to investigate the association between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and PD risk.

Methods:

Published literature from PubMed and Embase databases were searched for eligible publications. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using random- or fixed-effects models based on between-study heterogeneity.

Results:

A total of five studies including 606 cases and 708 controls were finally included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed that there was no obvious association between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and PD risk under the homogeneous co-dominant model (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 0.71–1.82), heterogeneous co-dominant model (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.70–1.22), dominant model (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.76–1.28) or recessive model (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.83–1.37).

Conclusion:

The meta-analysis suggests that there is no evidence for the association between ACE gene I/D polymorphism and PD risk.
The effect of blood collection procedure on plasma renin activity (PRA) and concentrations of direct renin (DRC) and aldosterone
Authors: Glinicki Piotr , Jeske Wojciech , Gietka-Czernel Małgorzata , Bednarek-Papierska Lucyna , Kruszyńska Aleksandra , Słowińska-Srzednicka Jadwiga , Zgliczyński Wojciech
Published: July 2013

Introduction:

Performing measurements of plasma renin activity (PRA) or direct renin concentration (DRC) and aldosterone concentration, we should be well informed about requirements concerning blood sample processing.

Material and methods:

Forty-seven patients had blood collected in the supine and upright positions. Blood was withdrawn into two EDTA2K tubes and one with clot activator. One EDTA2K tube was cooled at +4°C and centrifuged at +4°C whereas the other was prepared at room temperature. PRA and DRC were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and radioimmunometry (IRMA), respectively, in both cooled and not cooled plasma samples, and aldosterone was measured by RIA in not cooled plasma and in serum.

Results:

In all the groups, with low, medium, and high values of PRA and direct renin, the temperature of sample processing within 30 minutes had no marked influence on the final result (correlation coefficient for renin was 0.9994, and for PRA, 0.8297). The measured concentrations of aldosterone also showed high correlation ( r = 0.9790) but were markedly higher in plasma.

Conclusion:

The measurements of DRC, and to a lesser extent PRA, were similar regardless of temperature condition during the 20–30 minutes necessary for blood sample processing. Aldosterone concentrations in plasma vs serum samples appeared to be markedly higher.
Rousseau and the minimal self: A solution to the problem of amour-propre
Authors: McLendon Michael Locke
Published: July 2013

Over the past few decades, scholars have reassessed the role of amour-propre in Rousseau’s thought. While it was once believed that he had an entirely negative valuation of the emotion, it is now widely held that he finds it useful and employs it to strengthen moral attachments, conjugal love, civic virtue and moral heroism. At the same time, scholars are divided as to whether this positive amour-propre is an antidote to the negative or dangerous form. Some scholars are confident that ‘inflamed’ amour-propre can be overcome while others adopt a more fatalistic view. While mindful of Rousseau’s pessimism in his most famous works, this essay seeks to identify a middle position. By contending Rousseau’s discussion of amour-propre is largely concerned with the problems surrounding identity construction in commercial, urban societies, it will be argued that amour-propre can be lessened to manageable levels in more rural societies, that is, agrarian provincial life.